Most of us have felt pressure – whether from culture, family, or the media – telling us how to look, act, or live. These influences shape our confidence, guide our choices, and affect our sense of self.

Kaila Yu has experienced this firsthand. As an author, advocate, and former model, she has spent her career navigating identity, beauty standards, and media representation. She shares how these forces affected her self-worth and body image and the path she took to reclaim confidence, self-love, and her sense of self.

Drawing from her memoir, Fetishized: A Reckoning with Yellow Fever, Feminism, and Beauty, Kaila reflects on the stereotypes she faced, the lessons from her cultural upbringing, and how she ultimately embraced self-acceptance.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• How cultural and media expectations shape identity and self-worth
• The impact of harmful stereotypes, including the "Asian fetish"
• Navigating beauty standards in media and the entertainment industry
• An exercise to rewrite your inner narrative
• Real-life tips to reclaim confidence and self-love

Whether you're reflecting on your own experiences or curious about navigating expectations, this conversation is full of honesty, insight, and inspiration.

Resources Mentioned:

Fetishized: A Reckoning with Yellow Fever, Feminism, and Beauty

IFS Therapy

Love Yourself Like Your Life Depends on It

Learn More about Kaila Yu:

Website: kailayu.com

Instagram: @kailayu

YouTube: Kaila YuFacebook: Kaila Yu

TikTok: @kaila.yu

LinkedIn: Kaila Yu

Learn More about Elise Museles:

Food Story: Rewrite the Way You Eat, Think, and Live The Food-Mood Bundle (use code GOODMOOD50 for 50% off!)

Website: elisemuseles.com