API Rising

In this episode of API Rising, Van sits down with Nikki Lamba, a seasoned leader in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), People Operations, and Learning and Development (L&D) to explore the evolving landscape of professional training and development. Nikki brings years of experience and invaluable insights into how professionals discover and access training opportunities, the impact of traditional and innovative pathways, and the importance of continuous growth. She is the Founder and CEO of Sixth Sense Advisory, where she partners with middle-market firms to embed inclusive principles in their operations. Whether you're seeking to advance your career, develop new skills, or understand the latest trends in DEI, HR, and L&D, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and practical tips.  Join us for a deep dive into the dynamic world of professional development and discover new avenues for your growth journey.

In this episode, we're excited to chat with Kenny Nguyen, CEO of ThreeSixty Eight, Co-Curator for Assembly Required, and TEDx Alumni and Forbes 30 Under 30 Honoree. Prepare to be inspired by Kenny's unique journey, from his parents' escape to the US as Vietnamese refugees to their US experience and Kenny's unconventional path to success. His unwavering commitment to problem-solving and ambitious mission to transform Baton Rouge into the Creative Capital of the South is inspiring and infectious.

Join us as we sit down with Michele Ching, VP of Sightly, investor, speaker, writer, and advisor, alongside her inspiring mother, Cheryl Shigematsu, former President of the Paralegal Association of Hawaii and a pioneer for Hawaii's Positive Parenting Association. This mother-daughter duo dives deep into their upbringing as part of a six-generation Asian, Hawaiian American lineage and how their incredible journeys have inspired them to pave unique portfolio career paths. Hear their stories of resilience, cultural pride, and trailblazing leadership.

Welcome to Episode 21 of API Rising, where we dive deep into the stories and journeys of Asian and Pacific Islander leaders. In this episode, we shine the spotlight on Sheila Akbar, the CEO of Signet Education. Sheila takes us on a captivating journey from her childhood as a South Asian American girl in a small town in Michigan to her role as a prominent leader in education. Growing up as the daughter of Bengali parents, Sheila shares insights into navigating cultural dynamics while forging her path in leadership. Her story is a testament to resilience, cultural heritage, and the power of embracing one's identity. Join us as we uncover Sheila's rich and sometimes jaw-dropping narrative, exploring the intersections of culture, leadership, and personal growth. Tune in to API Rising Episode 21 for an inspiring and enlightening conversation.

For many API, success stories tend to span generations. We talk about sacrifices and coming of age from a complex cultural upbringing.  In this episode, we are so honored to chat with Tiana Austel and her mother Jackie Austel, a retired architect. Their generational journey is absolutely incredible, encompassing Jackie’s parent's experience in internment camps, her own trailblazing adventure in architecture as one of the first women in the industry, and closing with Tiana’s wonderfully rich experience as a culturally complex Asian-German woman in Corporate America. And stay tuned all month long for API Rising’s special series highlighting API leaders and, when we can, their parent. 

In celebration of International Women's Day, Van & Cathy sit down with Robin Li, Operating Partner for GGV Capital, US on the API Rising podcast. Robin has had far-reaching impact, finding and fueling potential through venture capital investing, advising founders and startups, and more recently community building for AAPI startups and leaders. Robin shares her road into Venture Capital, finding potential, fueling growth, and factors to success.

In celebration of Black History Month, we've invited Danisha Lomax, EVP, Head of Client Inclusion & Impact, to the pod. She is a force in the industry, driving greater inclusion with incredible brands like Sephora, Hulu and more. Danisha shares her origin story, how she carved out such an incredible role, the business case for inclusion, and how she influences and persuades brands to move towards greater inclusion. Tune in for some gems for influencing and impact.

Join Cathy and Van for a candid conversation with Jill Kelly, US CEO of EssenceMediacom. Jill talks about her origin story as a Korean adoptee, the path to becoming CEO, and navigating the first 90 days as a CEO of a recently merged organization. 

This time of year is steeped in traditions for many who celebrate Lunar New Year. We're preparing our homes and ourselves for celebration. But many second and third-generation immigrants may struggle to remember all the rituals, dishes, and symbolism associated with Lunar New Year. We sat down to chat with Mai Truong, who found herself addressing the dilemma of a fractured connection to our cultural heritage. Join us for a heartfelt conversation with Mai. And if you're still looking for all the decorations and details to celebrate Lunar New Year yourself, check out www.boandmei.com. #embracingculture #lunarnewyear #aapi

Have you ever asked yourself what you truly want? For many, it’s a hard question to answer. It takes intentional, deep self-reflection and a commitment to excavating your real desires. In this episode, Cathy and Van interview Bonnie Wan, author of The Life Brief, a practical guide to bold living. Bonnie shares her own story, getting messy, getting clear, and getting active when it comes to creatively and courageously living the life you truly want.