229. Breaking Barriers in the World of Journalism with May Lee

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May Lee explores the themes of generosity, identity, and resilience shaped by her immigrant experiences.

Episode summary |

Susan Jin Davis and May Lee explore the themes of generosity, identity, and resilience shaped by their immigrant experiences. They discuss the challenges of growing up as children of immigrants, the impact of cultural concepts like Han, and the transformative power of loss. May shares her journey as a journalist of color, emphasizing the importance of diversity in media and the need for education to combat stereotypes. The discussion also highlights the significance of personal connections and the role of platforms like their podcast, ‘Shoes Off Inside,’ in fostering dialogue and understanding.

“Find joy every day.”

R.O.G. Takeaway Tips |

Generosity is a core value that shapes our identities.
The immigrant experience often involves significant sacrifice and resilience.
Childhood challenges can lead to a complex understanding of identity.
The concept of Han reflects deep-seated pain and resilience in Korean culture.
Transforming pain into purpose can empower individuals to help others.
Loss teaches us the importance of cherishing loved ones.
Intergenerational trauma impacts our identities and experiences.
Diversity in journalism is crucial for accurate representation.
Education can fill gaps in understanding cultural histories.
Creating platforms for dialogue fosters connection and understanding.

Chapters |

00:00 Introduction and Connection

02:50 The Immigrant Experience and Generosity

05:28 Childhood Challenges and Identity Struggles

11:44 The Impact of Racism and the Concept of Han

13:56 Transforming Pain into Purpose

16:34 The Loss of a Parent and Its Lessons

18:30 The Importance of Presence and Connection

19:43 Intergenerational Trauma and Cultural Identity

21:36 Navigating Journalism as a Woman of Color

24:23 Facing Otherism: A Personal Journey

28:13 The Importance of Allyship and Diversity Efforts

32:20 Creating Awareness: The Evolution of Asian Americans in Media

38:04 Shoes Off Inside: Cultural Practices and Podcasting

43:06 Using Platforms for Social Change

51:25 Curiosity and Purpose: Finding Fulfillment in Action

Guest Bio |

May Lee is an award-winning broadcast journalist who has been both a US based, and international anchor, host, correspondent and producer having worked for a variety of media outlets including NHK, CNBC, Oxygen Media and CNN where she was appointed as the first Korean American anchor. May has broken down many other barriers throughout her career and continues to do so with her production company, Lotus Media House, which currently produces “Shoes Off Inside”, a vodcast (video-podcast) that explores the API experience and beyond with hosts May Lee as well as veteran actors Kelly Hu and Tamlyn Tomita.

May’s work in API activism and education was recognized by Forbes when she was named one of Forbes 50 over 50 women leading the way in impact in 2021. Along with her media projects and activism, May served as adjunct instructor at USC’s Annenberg School of Communication and Journalism and Artistic Assistant Professor at Dodge College of Film and Media Arts at Chapman University.

May’s many other previous professional roles include LA-based correspondent and host for international network CGTN-America, talk show host for Oxygen Media founded by Oprah Winfrey, and lead anchor for CNBC in Singapore. May is a graduate of Mills College in Oakland, CA where she attained her BA in communications. She has authored two books, “May Lee, Live and in Person”, originally published by John Wiley, and “So You Want to be On-Air? A Guide to Anchoring, Hosting, Voiceovers and more”, published by Cognella, Inc., which was released in July of 2023. May is an active board member of East West Players, the longest running Asian American theatre in the U.S. as well as Miss Porter’s School, a prestigious boarding school in Farmington, Connecticut that educates, inspires and empowers the young women to become the leaders of tomorrow.