I’m in conversation with Sherrlene—a modern Asian woman, entrepreneur, and spiritual seeker whose story challenges not just stereotypes but the binary boxes culture tries to place us in.

Key Themes & Takeaways:

Redefining Identity, Layer by Layer:

Sherrlene opens up about what it was like to grow up as a half-Korean, half-African American woman—never “enough” of either, yet ultimately embracing her unique place in the world. Together, she and So Hee reflect on the ache of not fitting in, the power in choosing the middle, and how true belonging often starts within.

The Courage to Be Seen:

The conversation spotlights those tender moments of feeling alone, wishing to swap features, and struggling to bridge the language gap in family. Sherrlene invites us to embrace our full, complicated selves: “It’s more of just being me. Just being your true, authentic self.”

Honoring Every Heritage:

Discover how Sherrlene’s parenting journey is guided by radical inclusivity—raising her son with an open awareness of his Korean, African American, Italian, and Caucasian backgrounds, all while letting him follow his own path. Dr. So Hee shares her own family’s mosaic and the ways food, traditions, and everyday choices can help connect us to culture, even with imperfect language.

Spiritual Journeys & Self-Compassion:

Both women speak vulnerably on finding peace and light through meditation, connection with nature, and letting go of rigid expectations—of themselves and their children. There’s gentle wisdom here for anyone reconsidering what “success” or “balance” truly means.

Community, Healing, and Ripples:

From childhoods marked by independence to the intentional creation of warmth and presence in their own families, Sherrlene and So Hee model how vulnerability transforms not just the self but community. And they remind us: It’s never too late to connect, ask new questions, or rewrite old patterns.

Actionable Reflections:

Ask yourself: What “layers” of identity have I hidden or wished away? How can I make space for my full self?

How does your family show love? Are there new rituals—like cooking together, affection, or words—that you want to bring forward?

For fellow entrepreneurs and leaders: How does your story shape the way you show up and lead? Where can authenticity fuel meaningful change—not just checkboxes of “diversity”?

Notice the “protective eyes” in your life: What are you doing to shield your spirit? What can you rebrand or let go of to feel more aligned and safe?

Consider, as Sherrlene does: What would it look like to let go—just a little bit—and trust the unfolding of your (or your child’s) path?

Quotable Moments:

“I grew up where I wasn’t black enough, but also I wasn’t Korean enough. … But now I’m embracing it. Embracing me. And I hope others will do that too.”

“You carry a lot of deep stories and struggles as a mixed race individual. … Communicate it—get it out there. Don’t keep it in.”

“This journey is about owning your identity, advocating for yourself, speaking your truth, and breaking stereotypes along the way.”

For the Modern Asian Woman and Allies: This space is your invitation to feel seen, held, and empowered. We celebrate the real stories, the layered journeys, and the remixing of what it means to thrive as a modern Asian woman in today’s world.

Connect, Reflect, and Share: Which layers of this conversation resonated most with you? What’s one way you will honor your “messy middle” this week? Your story matters. Share your reflections and continue the ripple.

— SEASON FOCUS:

Amplifying the stories, boldness, and authenticity of today’s Asian women and cultural shifters. Join us inside the ALM community, where your voice, your heritage, and your journey are all worthy—messiness and all.