Hidden in Plain Sight: All Things Asian in the Workplace

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Jun 2026

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About the show

We are three organizational psychologists - Duoc, Eccho, and Jenny - here to discuss the good, the bad, and the ugly on all things Asian in the workplace. Each episode will break down a specific topic, such as how stereotypes play into pay negotiation, what professional development looks like for Asian employees, and what forms of bias, stereotypes, and microaggressions Asian professionals have to navigate, and so much more. We draw from current events and from the organizational behavior and psychological research (because we are nerds) to share tips and advice on how best to navigate tricky organizational dynamics. We invite anyone - whether you’re a practitioner working in this space or a casual listener - with an interest in this topic to tune in so that we as a community can all play an active role in shaping a more inclusive workplace! If there's a topic you'd like us to explore, questions regarding what we discussed, or you wanna drop us a line to let us know what you'd like us to do more or less of, you can reach us at: hiddeninplainsight855@gmail.com.

Listen to episodes

42 recent

June 2, 202646 min

Inclusive Leadership: The Double Bind, the Data, and the Future

In this episode, we sat down with Dr. Wei Zheng, professor of management and leadership, to explore what inclusive leadership really looks like in practice. Wei shared her research on women leaders and the double bind they face: the pressure to project both competence and warmth. She also unpacked why leadership is less about title and more about adding values aligned with organizational goals. We dig into how AI might reshape inclusion by tracking participation gaps and surfacing information blind spots, and why systemic change, not just individual effort, is what moves the needle. Tune in for a thoughtful, grounded conversation about building workplaces where inclusive leaders can truly thrive.

April 28, 202645 min

Humor in the Workplace: A Cost‑Benefit Analysis

In this episode, we dig into the nuances of humor at work—why it connects, why it misfires, and why it can feel especially risky for Asian and Asian American professionals. We each share stories about jokes that landed, moments that didn’t, and how context, rapport, and power dynamics shape what’s “safe” to say. Together, we reflect on authenticity, self‑deprecation, and how humor can ease tension or deepen connection. Join us for a warm and honest conversation about laughing—and being understood—at work.

March 31, 202639 min

Meaningful Work: Punching In, Growing Up

In this episode, we unpack what “meaningful work” really means while discussing our first jobs. Eccho recalls engineering oil‑and‑well designs and later learning the ropes at Microsoft. Duoc reflects on the fun and growth he found at McDonald’s and Best Buy. Jenny remembers AMC Theatres, where the perks, especially the free movies, made the job shine. Together, we explore the importance of finding joy in work, how much identity we tie to our jobs, and what it means to build a life beyond the paycheck.

March 2, 202636 min

There and Back Again: A Burnout Story by Three Psychologists

In this episode, we journey through the landscape of burnout—moving from overwork to exhaustion and self‑doubt, and ultimately returning home with clearer boundaries, renewed meaning, and a wiser sense of what’s worth carrying. From Eccho’s six‑year grind of full‑time work plus a PhD, to Jenny’s constant vigilance while working in Colombia, to Duoc’s weekend‑work relapses fueled by poor management, we explore how burnout takes shape in different lives. Together, we unpack the role of boundaries, self‑care, and reframing work, and why meaningful leadership matters more than ever. Tune in for an honest, warm, and slightly spicy conversation about finding your way back to balance.

January 27, 202636 min

Bragging While Asian: Crazy Rich Backlash or the Anxiety We Invent?

In the first episode of 2026, we dive into the wonderfully awkward world of bragging at work, inspired by Peggy Klaus’s book Brag: The Art of Tooting Your Own Horn. We unpack whether the backlash we fear is real—or just the stories we tell ourselves—especially for Asian professionals navigating cultural expectations. Along the way, we trade personal tales, geek out on objective data, and laugh about how team dynamics can make or break your brag. Tune in for a fun, honest, and slightly spicy conversation!

October 27, 202534 min

To Brag or Not to Brag? That is the Question

We're tackling the age-old question: “Whether ’tis nobler to suffer in the mind or take up arms against our troubles!” Just kidding—we hosted another book club! This time, we’re reviewing "Brag: The Art of Tooting Your Own Horn Without Blowing It" by Peggy Klaus. We explore the concept of bragging, its role in the corporate world, and the cultural nuances of self-promotion. Tune in to hear how we can talk about our accomplishments in a genuine and balanced way, reflect on our internal soliloquy around bragging, and apply the advice shared by Peggy.

September 30, 202531 min

Guess Who's Getting a New Career? How Generative AI Is Reshaping the Workforce

In this episode, we explore the evolving impact of generative artificial intelligence (GAI) on the workforce, with a focus on how GAI can affect Asian American professionals. Drawing from recent research, we highlight how tasks requiring human agency—such as interpersonal communication and organizing—are gaining value, while roles centered on data processing and analysis face increasing automation. Tune in for strategies on up-skilling and re-skilling,  plus a few  alter ego career pivots as we imagine our lives beyond AI.Link to article about GAI. 

August 26, 202549 min

Mentorship, Leadership, and Cultural Growth with Tyng Kam

We're back from our summer break! In this episode, we are joined by Tyng Kam, a certified career coach with thousands of hours of coaching experience. Tyng shares insights from what she refers to as a "non-linear" career journey, which spanned multinational corporations, startups, and educational institutions across the U.S., Germany, and Malaysia. Tyng highlights her involvement with the National Association of Asian American Professionals (NAAAP) and the value of mentorship and leadership development. Tune in to learn about the strategies she uses to help Asian professionals overcome cultural challenges and recognize potential in others.

July 1, 202536 min

Real Talk with Leaders in the Field: Cross racial solidarity with Lea Lynn Yen

In this episode, Jenny and Eccho welcome Dr. Lea Lynn Yen to explore Asian American perspectives on affirmative action and corporate DEI initiatives. Dr. Yen shares insights from her research on the model minority stereotype and colorblind racial ideology as they relate to affirmative action. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on the complexities of racial dynamics and the importance of cross-racial solidarity in fostering better workplace 

May 26, 202541 min

Old McDon had reforms, E-O, E-O, oh?!

In this episode, we examine recent executive orders affecting DEI, including EO 14173 and EO 14174. We then discuss setbacks, organizational responses, and strategies for resilience.Resources for the nerds:Article about the paradox of meritocracy in organizations and how this can actually fuel bias favoring men compared to equally high-performing women.The Society of Industrial Organizational Psychology's response related to Title VII and Job-Relevant Employment Practices