Living Biography

In this series, we explore the place that shaped a person's life and how. For Naomi Otsuka, a theater opportunity during a time of soul-searching opened her eyes to a world of expression—at times without words, at times about subjects kept quietly hidden. It gave her the conviction to cross the Pacific and refine her craft.

In this series, we explore the place that shaped a person’s life and how. At the University of Illinois at Chicago, Kevin Jandrists found himself in an intimate theater program of just twenty students—living, studying, and performing together every day. Through this experience, he learned to shed his shyness, embrace confidence, and grow, not just as an actor, but as a person. EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:...

In this episode of Living Biography, we sit down for a conversation about connection. Tushar Dadlani, founder of Teemyo, shares his story and inspiration behind building a tool designed to deepen real-world connections through reflection and conversation. Together, we talk about the balance between tech and humanity—and what it means to stay present and remember the little things about one another...

In this series, we explore the place that shaped a person’s life and how. For Bryant Choa, he grew up in the Philippines with his aunts and uncles while his parents established their lives in America. In a culture of strictness and discipline, he struggled, played, and discovered a standalone confidence early in life. EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 - Introduction to Series 01:09 - Introducing Bryant 01:36...

In this series, we explore the place that shaped a person’s life and how. For Caitlin Campbell, leaving her comfortable life in Southern California to start over in Tucson, Arizona, wasn’t just a career change—it was a journey of rediscovery. Through the challenges of nursing school and her work as a nurse, she uncovered the quiet strength and courage she’d always carried within her.   EPISODE CHA...

In this series, we explore the place that shaped a person’s life and how. For Esho Fisher, he grew up as the oldest of nine siblings at home. This meant stepping up to protect his brothers and sisters and support his parents—but he later came to realize how this shaped his strengths as well as his challenge in showing up for himself. EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 - Introduction to Series 01:14 - Introduc...

In this series, we explore the place that shaped a person’s life and how. For Mandy Mukozaka, Phoenix Ranch School was more than just a school or summer camp—it was where she had her first job, discovered her passion for teaching, and built the resilience and joy that carried her through future challenges. EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 - Introduction to Series 01:13 - Introducing Mandy 01:52 - Phoenix Ra...

In this series, we explore the place that shaped a person’s life and how. For Gordon Pettigrew, that place was an arts high school unlike any other—no fences, no rules. But in the competing freedom and discipline, he developed resilience and versatility that would carry him through music, personal challenges, and life’s unexpected turns. EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 - Introduction to Series 01:19 - Intr...

In this series, we explore the place that shaped a person’s life and how. For Anya Kumar, the airport is more than a stopover—it’s where she learned to navigate chaos, connect with strangers, and reflect on the person she’s becoming. From childhood memories to 17-page journal entries, she shares how airports were integral to shaping her values and her path. EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 - Introduction to...

In this series, we explore the place that shaped a person’s life and how. For David Honda, judo was a family sport woven into his DNA—beyond the dojo and competitions. The discipline, respect, and confidence he gained there carried him through many turns in life: from law enforcement to, today, the kitchen. EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 - Introduction to Series 01:08 - Introducing David 01:46 - A Childho...

In this series, we explore the place that shaped a person’s life and how. Cassie Colby, a native Angeleno, grew up in a bubble within one of the world’s most diverse cities, wrestling with identity and belonging. Over time, the city and its people shaped Cassie’s sense of authenticity, purpose, and commitment to giving back. EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 - Introduction to Series 01:13 - Introducing Cassi...

In this series, we explore the place that shaped a person’s life and how. For Tushar Dadlani, coffee shops became more than caffeine stops during his move from Pune, India, to the Bay Area. A cafe on his bus route shifted how he saw community, equality, and connection—and ever since, finding local coffee shops has been his ritual for staying engaged with himself and his community. EPISODE CHAPTERS...