Beyond the Couch
Beyond the Couch is a podcast exploring the intersection of Asian Pacific Islander South Asian American (APISA) identity and mental health. Hosted by three therapists, Diana Liao, LMHC, Samantha Waldman, LMHC, and Christie Kim, LMHC, our mission is to demystify therapy and uplift stories from our community. Join us every Wednesday as we delve into essential topics from identity and perfectionism to courageous stories of healing and collective care with fellow therapists, experts, and community members.
Beyond the Couch is a proud initiative of Bridges Mental Health, is a stigma-free hub for Asians, Pacific Islanders, and South Asian Americans (APISA) to discuss, navigate, and seek mental health care. Find a therapist, join our therapist community, and follow us on Instagram @bridgesmentalhealth.
Beyond the Couch
Activism in the Workplace with Brian Pang & Franklin Shen
This week, Diana chats with Franklin Shen and Brian Pang about the the power of Asian activism in the workplace. Franklin and Brian share their unique journeys from assimilation to reclaiming their Asian identities to uplifting the greater community. Together, they discuss corporate activism, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives and Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), as well as the importance of challenging the model minority myth through storytelling, empathy and an abundance mindset. They offer lessons on working against perfectionism and sustainable activism.
Brian Pang serves on the leadership teams of the Asian Leaders Alliance, Stand with Asian Americans, and Ascend, is dedicated to advocating for underrepresented workplace talent, for-justice initiatives, and advancing marginalized communities. Connect with Brian on Instagram @bpanger33
Franklin Shen serves on the leadership team of the Asian Leaders Alliance and the NYC chapter for Stand with Asian Americans. Professionally he is a VP at Tembo Health, a startup focused on helping seniors. Before that, he was at Flatiron Health where he served in the company's inaugural Inclusion Working Group and helped found and lead their Asian employee resource group. Connect with Franklin on Instagram @shensayshen
Mentioned in this episode:
- Media:
- Minor Feelings by Cathy Park Hong
- The Wake Up by Michelle MiJung Kim
- Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner
- Brown Girl Therapy Podcast
- Dear Asian Americans Podcast
- Asian Americans Film Series (PBS)
- Organizations:
Bridges Mental Health connects Asian, Pacific Islander, South Asian Americans (APISA) with culturally responsive mental health professionals and resources. We hope to make mental health care more accessible and approachable across the Asian diaspora.
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@bridgesmentalhealth
bridgesmentalhealthnyc@gmail.com
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