Still here. Still building. Still betting on ourselves.

End of the year episode, Han and Joyce reflect on the realities of surviving 2025 as small business owners, creatives, and new parents. From storefront closures and brutal leases to burnout, self-doubt, and redefining success, this conversation is about what it actually takes to keep going when the shine wears off.

They talk about shedding expectations, giving yourself credit, the power dynamics between landlords and tenants, Asian American cultural momentum, and why consistency matters more than growth.

This episode is about clarity, grace, and making space for what’s next.

Chapters

00:00 – End of 2025 & Local Business Closures

03:10 – Shedding, Doubt, and Betting on Yourself

07:00 – Business Reality Checks & Parenthood

11:00 – Consistency, Grace, and Giving Yourself Credit

15:00 – Timelines, Second Locations, and Expectations

19:30 – Gambling on Yourself & Long-Term Vision

21:00 – Why the Podcast Matters

24:00 – Making Space for 2026

27:00 – What Actually Mattered in 2025

31:00 – Bad Leases, Landlords, and Power Dynamics

38:00 – Culture, Food, and Asian American Momentum

47:00 – Snacks, Trends, and What’s Next

55:00 – Gratitude, Community, and Looking Forward