Interview: Representation in the Entertainment Industry with Guest Larissa Lam

In this episode, Pastor Jay Lee explores issues of representation in the entertainment industry with special guest Larissa Lam. Larissa, whose career has spanned many areas of entertainment as a music producer, songwriter, touring performer, actress, tv host, podcaster, and filmmaker, she has a unique perspective on what it's like to be an: Asian-American, Woman, and Christian in these spaces.

In the interview we explore how a lack of Asian representation in media was limiting for us growing up. We also explore some of the unique struggles for Asian women to be perceived as leaders and decision-makers, as well as how the Christian "label" can be limiting and create a false dichotomy between "secular" and "spiritual", as well. Larissa also offers some sage advice for those who are considering a career in the entertainment industry, and how to navigate issues of representation.

Guest Bio:

Over the past two decades, Los Angeles native Larissa Lam has established herself as not only a creative force in music, film and TV but a voice that inspires and empowers others. A dynamic performer, Larissa has captivated audiences across the U.S. at Staples Center, Lincoln Center, The Grammy Museum and more. Her singing career began when she became one of the lead singers of the EDM worship group, Nitro Praise. As a solo artist, she released four critically acclaimed albums of original songs and her song “I Feel Alive,” won the Hollywood Music in Media for Best Dance Song. Additionally, she composed music for The Oprah Winfrey Show among other film, TV and video game projects. For nine years, she hosted a weekly talk show, “Top 3,” on TBN’s youth network JCTV. Recently, Larissa has also gained recognition as a filmmaker with her award-winning documentary, Far East Deep South, which uncovers the little known history of Chinese families in Mississippi during segregation. Far East Deep South made its broadcast premiere in May 2021 on the PBS/World Channel series, “America ReFramed.” She also hosts the podcast, Love, Discovery and Dim Sum, with her husband, Baldwin Chiu aka Only Won.