Let's Talk with YuTsai

Actress, Model, Dancer, Activist : Leyna Bloom is nothing short of amazing. This year, I was fortunate enough to photograph this trailblazer, who has become the first transgender Black and Asian-American Sports Illustrated swimsuit cover model. 

Editorial Director and Content Strategist, Bethany Heitman is a prolific contributor to top publications. Her take on women's issues and commitment to empowering content has made her an in demand voice and strong advocate.

Chef Thomas Raquel is Executive Pastry Chef at Eric Ripert's celebrated, three star Michelin restaurant La Bernadin. He was taught to cook by his Filipino grandmother and worked hard through culinary school before ascending to his esteemed role.

Kathleen Hou is the beauty director of NY Magazine's the Cut and has been featured on NPR, and in numerous publications including Vogue India, Allure, and Conde Nast Traveler. As an Asian American woman, her voice is important to expand the dialogue in the beauty industry.

My friend J. Alexander, also known as Miss J. has always lived his life with complete authenticity. J and I have had many conversations about race and allyship for the Black community and solidarity for the LGBTQ+ community.

Julianna Margulies is an award winning actress best known for roles in ER and The Good Wife, but she has just published a very moving memoir: Sunshine Girl : An Unexpected Life. 

Her book is a very candid look at her upbringing in an unconventional home. I'm thrilled to discuss her story.

Cat Cora is a force of nature. The first female winner of Food Network's Iron Chef and the first female inductee into the American Academy of Chef's Hall of fame, she's also an advocate for the LGBTQAI+ community, and a humanitarian founding "Chefs for Humanity".

Johnny Wujek is a celebrity stylist, costume designer, and creative director renowned for his work with Katy Perry, Mariah Carey, Niki Minaj, and Brittney Spears. His work on the HBO show Legendary, spreads the message of the underground phenomenon known as Ballroom Culture.

Ying Chu is the ground breaking beauty director, Creative & Digital Marketing Consultant, Editor, Writer, and Luxury Brand Strategist who made a name for herself with her work with Violet Grey, Glamour, Harper's Bazaar, Marie Claire, and many other media outlets. In her work she always strives to bring diversity and her perspective as an Asian-American woman. 

Aarti Sequeira is a breath of fresh air in food media, winner of the sixth season of The Next Food Network Star in 2010. Her show Aarti Paarty is a platform to demystify Indian cuisine and share fusion recipes. As a woman of Indian descent with an unassuming attitude toward preparing food, she brings something special to the table and has been a staple on Food Network.