What We Cover in This Episode:The Story Behind the Book Jenny explains how her Instagram community sparked the writing of Permission to Come Home.The book is a call to reclaim mental health, dismantle shame, and give ourselves permission—to question, feel, rage, play, and heal.Cultural Nuance in Mental Health Care Why standard psychological approaches often fail Asian American clients.The importance of cultural humility, not just cultural competence, in therapy.How mental health systems must be decolonized to truly support diverse communities.A Journey of Resilience and Defiance Jenny shares her path to becoming a clinical psychologist, including moments of discouragement—and the mentors who made all the difference.The role of persistence, privilege, and resilience in navigating academic and professional barriers.The 10 Permissions We All Need Fiona highlights the structure of the book: ten chapters that grant “permission” to explore different aspects of mental health and identity.Jenny reflects on the vulnerability required to write the book—and why modeling that vulnerability matters.Intergenerational Trauma & Healing A poignant story from Jenny’s mother’s childhood—and how those wounds are passed down, often unconsciously.The power of breaking cycles and choosing new, more loving ways of relating across generations.Why Play Matters—Especially in Adulthood Jenny and Fiona explore how cultural dynamics often suppress play in favor of achievement.Play as a form of fuel, joy, and self-connection—especially for those in midlife.Grief, Migration, and Identity The hidden grief of migration and the quiet loss of language, heritage, and belonging.Jenny speaks movingly about the emotional complexity of existing between two cultures—and the importance of honouring that experience.Redefining Home What does it mean to truly come home to yourself?Jenny introduces her four core elements of “home”: safety, belonging, authenticity, and compassion—and how we can cultivate these in our relationships and communities.Final ReflectionsThis episode is a heartfelt, illuminating conversation that touches on themes many of us carry but often don’t have words for. Whether you’re exploring your own identity or supporting others on their journey, Jenny’s insights offer a gentle but powerful guide. Here are some practical takeaways from the conversation:Practice Play: Integrate play into your daily life as a source of energy and sustainability, not just as a reward after hard work. Start with small activities that bring you joy and help you recharge.Embrace Vulnerability: Be willing to share your authentic experiences and emotions. This can help break cycles of shame and silence, especially around mental health.Reflect on Cultural Identity: Take time to explore your family history, understand intergenerational experiences, and appreciate the complexity of your cultural background.Create Conditions of Home: Cultivate safety, belonging, authenticity, and compassion in your relationships and personal spaces.Challenge Achievement-Based Self-Worth: Recognize your value beyond professional achievements. Practice slowing down and tolerating the discomfort of being less productive.Practice Cultural Humility: Approach different experiences and perspectives with openness, listening, and a willingness to learn.Break Negative Cycles: Consciously choose to parent, communicate, and interact differently from generational patterns that may have been harmful.Prioritize Mental Health: Seek support that understands your unique cultural context and validates your experiences.These takeaways can help individuals develop more compassionate, balanced, and fulfilling lives across various cultural backgrounds. Connect with Dr. Jenny WangWebsite: www.asianformentalhealth.comInstagram: @asiansformentalhealthBook: Permission to Come Home — available wherever books are sold.Connect with FionaWebsite: www.fionamurden.comInstagram: @fionamurdenLinkedIn: Fiona MurdenBooks: Defining You and Mirror Thinking Thank You for ListeningIf this episode resonated with you, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, or sharing it with someone who might benefit from the conversation. See you next time on Dot to Dot, where we continue to explore the patterns, insights, and human stories that connect us. For more on Fiona visit www.fionamurden.com
