Asian Diaspora Project

Send us Fan Mail Actor, dancer, comedian, and now aspiring filmmaker — Sway Bhatia is a powerhouse redefining what it means to grow up in the spotlight. In this episode, Sway opens up about being raised between Dubai, New York, and New Jersey, training at Alvin Ailey, starring in The Mighty Ducks and Succession , and why she’s passionate about telling raw, untold stories from South Asian communiti...

Send us Fan Mail In this insightful conversation, NPR Correspondent Emily Feng shares her experience reporting across Asia, uncovering untold stories, and navigating the complexities of international journalism. From on-the-ground perspectives to the challenges of covering sensitive topics, Emily dives deep into the nuances of storytelling, cultural understanding, and the evolving media landscape....

Send us Fan Mail Oscar-nominated director behind Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom and The Monk and the Gun. In this episode of the Asian Diaspora Project Podcast, we explore his journey from a multicultural upbringing to becoming a pioneering filmmaker, Bhutan’s self-imposed isolation and transition to modernity, and the deeper themes in his films. Pawo shares insights on storytelling as a form of l...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Asian Diaspora Project, we hang out with comedian and writer Sierra Katow, who proves that juggling punchlines, coding gigs, and family traditions is no joke—except when it is. Sierra spills on her first awkward-but-awesome open mic at 16, navigating the comedy scene while moonlighting in tech, and how her multigenerational Asian-American roots keep her grou...

Send us Fan Mail In this special episode of the Asian Diaspora Project, we welcome actors Rich Ting and Perry Yung, stars of the hit series Warrior. Together, they explore the intersection of career, culture, and identity, sharing their personal journeys in Hollywood and the lessons learned along the way. From advocating for season four of Warrior to reflecting on the legacy of Bruce Lee and authe...

Send us Fan Mail How do you create a movement that reshapes an entire community’s identity? Meet Paul "PK" Kim, a Korean-American comedian, trailblazer, and founder of Kollaboration, an organization that started as a grassroots talent show in Los Angeles and became a national platform celebrating Asian-American creativity and talent. In this episode of the Asian Diaspora Project, PK refl...

Send us Fan Mail Join writer and film critic Jeff Yang as he takes you on a walking tour through Manhattan’s Chinatown, reflecting on the intersection of cinema and culture. From iconic filming locations like the setting of Past Lives to pivotal spots featured in The Farewell, Jeff dives deep into the cinematic history that shaped both Chinatown and his own career.  Along the way, he shares person...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Mona Sinha, Global Executive Director of Equality Now, discusses her personal journey into advocacy, highlighting how she leverages her corporate and philanthropic background to champion gender equality. She reflects on her upbringing in Calcutta, India, where growing up in a male-dominated, patriarchal society shaped her worldview and inspired her lifelong commit...

Send us Fan Mail Chun Wai Chan, the first Chinese principal dancer of New York City Ballet, talks about how his Chinese heritage shaped his journey, how he approaches his work with discipline, and how he engages with his fans across the world. Chun Wai’s resilience and grace will inspire you!    The Asian Diaspora Project is supported by Stavros Niarchos Foundation. Asian Diaspora Project is a soc...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Asian Diaspora Project podcast, we're thrilled to chat with the talented Aiko Tanaka! Join us as we dive into her journey from aspiring comedian to stand-up star, explore the hurdles she's overcome, and hear how she's making her mark in the stand-up world. Check out Aiko's work here: https://aikotanaka.com/ Asian Diaspora Project is a soc...

Send us Fan Mail Sit down with New York Times Food Reporter Priya Krishna as she shares the diverse flavors and family history that inspired her latest children’s cookbook, Priya's Adventures, offering an engaging exploration into her culinary journey. Learn about her creative process and the influences that shaped her passion for food while gaining insights into her latest work. Check out Pr...

Send us Fan Mail In celebration of Pride Month, we unravel the rich history and legacy of ballroom culture with Korean-American Drag Queen Jasmine Rice 🌟✨in this inaugural episode of the Asian Diaspora Project podcast. Follow her journey as she shares fascinating insights on the origins of ballroom, the iconic figures who paved the way, and how she became a vital part of the Royal Iconic House o...

Send us Fan Mail Hear the amazing stories of Asians across the world who are making a big impact and bridging cultures. People like, Michelin-star chef Vikas Khanna , the U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy , acclaimed author Amy Tan , and daughter of Bruce Lee and producer of hit series, Warrior , Shannon Lee , just to name a few. Experience the colorful diversity of the global Asian diaspora c...