new york / Sifu Mimi Chan

397. Monica May on Breaking Barriers – from the Projects to Empowering the Next Generation

I had the privilege of sitting down with Monica May, a radio host whose story is nothing short of inspiring. Monica’s journey began in the projects of New York, where she learned the value of hard work, resilience, and survival—qualities that would later define her remarkable career in radio. You can hear Monica on Star 94.5 hosting “Monica May’s Point Of View”.

354. Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah on Chain-Gang All-Stars

I read Chain-Gang All-Stars by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah this year and was blown away. I rarely post my reading list to social media, but when I did, he was kind enough to respond. There are certain books that leave you with strong feelings. Chain-Gang All-Stars is one of these books. Nana writes in way that is both captivating and sends a deeper message.

328. Yuh Line Niou on the immigrant reality, politics and being a change maker

Yuh-Line Niou is a former New York State assembly member for the 65th district and an overall incredible human. I had the pleasure of speaking with Yuh-Line about her immigrant reality and experience growing up in small towns in Idaho, Oregon and Texas.

255. Spencer Ackerman on the Reign of Terror, Haiti, and comics

Spencer Ackerman has been a national-security correspondent for outlets like The New Republic, WIRED, The Guardian, and currently The Daily Beast for nearly the entire War on Terror.
He is the author of the new acclaimed book REIGN OF TERROR: HOW THE 9/11 ERA DESTABILIZED AMERICA AND PRODUCED TRUMP. As the former U.S. national security editor for the Guardian, Ackerman was part of the Pulitzer Prize-winning team reporting on Edward Snowden’s surveillance revelations.

90. Charlie Beale, artistic director of the NYC Gay Men’s Chorus

Charlie Beale is the Artistic Director of New York City Gay Men’s Chorus. Under his energized leadership, the chorus has almost 300 singers, performs with a passionate sound, and has an interactive style with audiences. Charlie gives frequent clinics and workshops internationally, focusing on the transforming power of music. Today, we chat about his work with the NYC GMC and the unique connection for the LGBT community he creates through music and song.

26. Tony Wolf on artistry and acting in NYC

Meet Tony Wolf! He is an actor, singer, and artist in New York. Tony shares his experiences with the struggles of show business. We also discuss his artistry and illustrations, as he has created some comics that have appeared in the New York Times. As you know I am a comic book geek, and always enjoy chatting comics with a fellow geek!