What happens when two Asian American women refuse to wait for permission to tell their stories?

In this episode of asian like me, Dr. Sohee Jun speaks with Renee and Ann, co-leaders of TeachAAPI, about building a national education movement rooted in empowerment through storytelling, Asian entrepreneurship, and community-led innovation. With backgrounds in finance, brand strategy, and consumer insights, they share how they’re applying startup thinking to education—designing for teachers, centering student joy, and scaling Asian startup stories to reach 1 million students by 2028.

Renee and Ann’s journey offers powerful insight into inspiring stories from female entrepreneurs, success stories of women leaders, and what it looks like to build impact from the classroom up. This conversation underscores why Asian innovation stories matter—and how storytelling can reshape identity, leadership, and belonging.

To learn more about Dr. Sohee Jun & asian, like me... podcast, please visit: www.soheejunphd.com

To learn more about Renee & Ann's work with TeachAAPI, please visit: www.teachaapi.org

What if the pressure to start fresh in January is the very thing that keeps us misaligned?

In this episode, I’m sharing why I’ve stopped forcing January to be about goals, vision boards, and having it all figured out—and why February has become the true beginning of my year. By honoring winter rhythms, rest, and spaciousness, I’ve found a more aligned way to re-emerge with clarity and intention.

I also reflect on the meaning of February through Lunar New Year, Galentine’s traditions, books, and the power of female friendships. This episode is an invitation to slow down, question the calendar, and begin again in a way that actually feels true to you.

To learn more about Dr. Sohee Jun & asian, like me... podcast, please visit: www.soheejunphd.com

I’m in conversation with Dr. Soni, a physician-leader working at the intersection of patient care and public health policy, about what it means to design healthcare systems that actually work for the people they’re meant to serve. From exam rooms to executive decision-making, Dr. Soni brings a grounded perspective on how care is experienced — and how it can be improved.

We explore how Covered California supports millions of residents, why affordability and access are inseparable, and how policy decisions directly shape whether people seek care at all. Dr. Soni shares insights into the behavioral health crisis, the lasting effects of the pandemic on care delivery, and why telehealth has become a permanent part of the healthcare landscape rather than a temporary solution.

The conversation also digs into disparities — particularly around mental health utilization — and the structural reasons some communities remain hesitant or unable to access care. Dr. Soni explains why representation in the healthcare workforce matters, how allies can help bridge gaps, and why systems must take responsibility rather than placing the burden on patients.

Along the way, Dr. Soni offers clear, practical advice for navigating healthcare visits and emphasizes the importance of preparation, communication, and support. He reflects on leadership during uncertainty, the fear that arises when coverage is threatened, and the courage required to act in service of long-term outcomes rather than short-term comfort.

This episode is for anyone thinking about healthcare beyond the individual appointment — and for those working to create systems that are fair, transparent, and accountable. It’s a conversation about care, power, and the responsibility that comes with scale.

Key Themes & Takeaways

The relationship between healthcare policy and patient behavior

Telehealth as a tool for access, not a cure-all

Mental health disparities and systemic barriers

Workforce diversity and cultural responsiveness

Patient empowerment and preparation

Leading through fear and uncertainty

Powerful Moments

On Access:

“Access isn’t just availability — it’s whether people feel safe using it.”

On Systems:

“Large systems have to own their outcomes.”

On Fear:

“When coverage feels unstable, people delay care — and that has consequences.”

On Patients:

“Your voice matters, and preparation helps it land.”

Reflection Questions

What barriers prevent people from accessing care in your community?

How does fear influence healthcare decisions — personally or systemically?

Where can accountability improve outcomes?

What role does representation play in trust?