This is an introduction to Korean Fusion food in Los Angeles.  Let me know what you think!

Video here: https://youtu.be/Arc6_EqIxrQ

Nowadays, it’s tempting to start a career on social media because it’s lucrative. But becoming an influencer isn’t all about taking good pictures; you have to go out there and build a brand for yourself.

In this episode, Athena Ng shares her journey in becoming a social media influencer. She discusses sustainable fashion, the ups and downs in the fashion industry, and how companies collaborate with them to boost their presence online.

Listen to the full episode to understand the world of influencers better!

Do you want to break out of the conservative identity society has forced on you?

Having a creative channel for sharing our thoughts and personalities enables us to connect with ourselves and our communities. In this episode, Deborah Cristobal shares how she expresses herself through acting and fashion. She delves on her various voice acting gigs and takes us through her garment-making techniques.

Listen to the full episode and be inspired to work on your self-expression.

Beyond the food, here are major landmarks where you can get to immerse yourself in Korean culture without traveling across the Pacific Ocean!

Video episode here: https://youtu.be/UWiSdh5q1ZY

Hierarchy is very important within Korean culture. That means using the right words when saying the same thing...even "I love you."

Please go to https://navigatingtherise.com/youtube for video.

We discuss three core attributes that made K-pop popular around the world.  Video link here:  https://youtu.be/VJVX4EP-gzI

This week we have an opportunity to learn about Vivian Ahn's story.

Vivan Ahn is Stella Adler trained.  She was in films and TV credits include 'Come Across Love' and 'Henry Danger'. Vivian also played in many classic roles from Shakespeare to Clifford Odets to Neil Simon.   Some of those are considered AFI projects. People praise Vivan for her flexibility in taking directions, crying on cue and her multi-lingual abilities.

Born in Taipei, Taiwan and raised in Mississauga, Canada, Vivian knew she wanted to be an actor at the age of 8. After receiving her degrees in Communication Arts with an emphasis in Motion Graphics and Japanese, she moved to Los Angeles.  There, she completed her 2-year acting training at the prestigious Acting School 'Stella Adler Academy of Acting' in LA from 2010 to 2012. She discovered more and more about herself and went through great transformations with each performance. Vivian participates in scriptwriting, creating her own feature film, among others.  Of course, she is also a member of the Actor's Union SAG-AFTRA.

In the show, we discussed how the trend is moving toward streaming shows as opposed to traditional movies.  Additionally, we mentioned how the auditions for actors tend to be sporadic given the huge competition. Also, one of the key successes of her experience is to play every part well.  There is no how small or big the role is.  We also discussed how acting is a game of attrition.  Some make it in their teens, some in their 20's, and some not until into their 50's.  Usually, when you look at the background of those who made it, they went through many rejections, auditions, small roles, before they were able to make it big.

Here are three reasons why you should tune in to the full episode: 

1) Discover how Kiki cleaned up her act after being riddled with addiction, alcoholism, and partying.  

2) Get motivated to live a life of purpose. 

3) Learn how to overcome the fear of rejection and failure.  

Are you feeling trapped and out of control? Disentangling yourself from present addictions can be tricky. After all, you’ve relied on them for so long to feel alive.  Kiki Wong shares how she overcame her addiction to alcohol, drugs, and partying through Muay Thai. She also talks about the importance of creating a positive headspace in redefining your life for the better.

Here are three reasons why you should listen to the full episode: 

1) How to eat a universe to make you feel important  

2) If you love food and where it comes from 

3) If you are interested in Korean culture

Here are three reasons why you should listen to the full episode: 

1) Discover the beginnings of the Asian Creative Network. 

2) Find out how Han Ju balances conflicting viewpoints in managing ACN. 

3) Learn the importance of narrative diversity in the Asian creatives community.  

Growing up, what stereotypes have influenced your life?   The most prevalent stereotype for Asians is pursuing high-paying professions.   Is there space for people with creative passions?  In this episode, Asian Creative Network founder Han Ju Seo talks about the complexity of Asian creatives. She shares the beginnings of the community that aims to connect and bring opportunities to Asian creatives.  Listen to the full episode if you want to be a part of an inspiring community that brings out the creativity in you.