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Beyond the Couch Ep 27: Activism in the Workplace with Brian Pang & Franklin Shen

This week, Diana chats with Franklin Shen and Brian Pang about the the power of Asian activism in the workplace. Franklin and Brian share their journeys from assimilation to reclaiming their Asian identities to uplifting the greater community. Together, they discuss corporate activism, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives and Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), as well as the importance of challenging the model minority myth through storytelling, empathy and an abundance mindset. They offer lessons on working against perfectionism, accountability with self-care, and sustainable activism.

Brian Pang serves on the leadership teams of the Asian Leaders Alliance, Stand with Asian Americans, and Ascend, is dedicated to advocating for underrepresented workplace talent, for-justice initiatives, and advancing marginalized communities. His profession is a Product Director at Electronic Arts and Pan-Asian ERG Global Chair, where he has led teams to deliver over 40 triple-A (AAA) game titles, digital transformation initiatives, marketing operations, all while creating relatable, safe, and inclusive player experiences. Brian was born and raised in Hong Kong, then immigrated to Vancouver, B.C. Canada, where he currently resides with his wife, daughter and two golden doodles. Connect with Brian on Instagram @bpanger33

Franklin Shen serves on the leadership team of the Asian Leaders Alliance and the NYC chapter for Stand with Asian Americans. Professionally he is a VP at Tembo Health, a startup focused on helping seniors. Before that, he was at Flatiron Health where he served in the company’s inaugural Inclusion Working Group and helped found and lead their Asian employee resource group. In the past, he also helped co-found the Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival. Connect with Franklin on Instagram @shensayshen

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