United By Rice

United By Rice
  • 5.0 (1)
  • TV & Film
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to United By Rice—the Podcast! At United By Rice, we celebrate the power of storytelling and the voices that bring our culture to life. As an online magazine dedicated to uplifting AANHPI talent in film, television and other mediums, we shine a spotlight on the creators, actors, and narratives reshaping the industry. Co-hosted by actress Junko Goda and TV/Film critic and interviewer Ben Lei

  1. Jul 20

    S2E04 | Amanda Zhou Takes on Joo Dee in "Avatar: The Last Airbender" Season 2

    This week on United By Rice, Ben and Junko catch up on one of the biggest weekends in pop culture as they recap Anime Expo, discuss how conventions like San Diego Comic-Con continue to evolve, and explore the latest trends shaping entertainment. The conversation ranges from Anime Expo's record-breaking crowds and the growing popularity of Pokémon card collecting to the future of streaming, Marvel's changing release strategy, and what the newest season of "Avatar: The Last Airbender" means for fans. Along the way, Ben also shares the story behind buying his very first Pokémon card. Then, we're joined by actress Amanda Zhou, who portrays the fan-favorite character Joo Dee in Netflix's "Avatar: The Last Airbender." A former elite figure skater, Amanda reflects on her unconventional journey into acting, bringing one of the franchise's most recognizable characters to life, balancing humor and mystery in Ba Sing Se, and what it means to represent Asian stories on one of Netflix's biggest series. Whether you're an anime fan, convention regular, collector, or simply love hearing from rising AANHPI talent in Hollywood, this episode has something for you.

  2. Jul 6

    S2E03 | Gabriel Prevost-Takahashi on His Roles in "Avatar: The Last Airbender" and "Voicemails for Isabelle"

    In this episode of "United By Rice," Ben and Junko sit down with rising actor Gabriel Prevost-Takahashi to discuss his remarkable journey from being discovered on the streets of Japan to landing major roles in two of Netflix's biggest projects: "Avatar: The Last Airbender" Season 2 and "Voices for Isabelle." Gabriel reflects on the unexpected path that launched his career, what it's been like stepping into the world of one of the most beloved franchises of all time, and how he balances opportunities across both live action and voice acting. He also shares the mindset that has helped him navigate an industry where timing, preparation, and smart decisions can make all the difference. Before the interview, Junko gives Ben a crash course on the enduring legacy of "Avatar," tracing its roots from the original Nickelodeon series to its lasting cultural impact and explaining why the franchise continues to resonate with fans around the world. Whether you're an aspiring actor, a longtime "Avatar" fan, or simply interested in hearing how careers are built in Hollywood, this conversation offers an honest and inspiring look behind the scenes of one of entertainment's brightest rising stars.

  3. Jun 25

    S2E02 | Yvonne Chapman | "The Season," "Avatar" & Breaking Boundaries; Bonus Interview with Chris Pang and Justin Chien

    Yvonne Chapman on "Avatar: The Last Airbender" Season 2, "The Season" & AANHPI Representation | United By Rice Podcast Yvonne Chapman is having a major moment. With Netflix's highly anticipated second season of "Avatar: The Last Airbender" on the horizon and Hulu's stylish new drama "The Season" now streaming, Chapman joins United By Rice for an in-depth conversation about two of the biggest projects of her career. In this episode, Yvonne discusses stepping into the world of "The Season," a glossy thriller set against the backdrop of the exclusive boating season, where ambition, family expectations, and social status collide. She also reflects on her journey as an actor, what these roles mean for AANHPI representation, and looks ahead to returning to the world of "Avatar." Then, stay tuned for a bonus interview from our "The Season" press junket featuring stars Chris Pang and Justin Chien. Together, they discuss building the show's unique world, bringing complex characters to life, and why authentic Asian stories continue to resonate with audiences around the globe. Whether you're a fan of "Avatar: The Last Airbender," intrigued by "The Season," or simply love hearing candid conversations with today's leading Asian and Asian American creatives, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at two exciting projects and the people bringing them to life. In this episode:• Yvonne Chapman's journey to "The Season" and "Avatar: The Last Airbender"• The inspiration and themes behind "The Season"• Representation and authentic AANHPI storytelling• Building layered, complex characters• Bonus interview with Chris Pang and Justin Chien• What's next for these rising stars Subscribe to United By Rice for more conversations celebrating Asian and AANHPI voices across film, television, and popular culture.

  4. Jun 11

    S2E01: The Cast of "Deli Boys" Season 2 - Asif Ali, Saagar Shaikh, Poorna Jagannathan, Fred Armisen and Showrunner Michelle Nader

    After a brief hiatus, United By Rice returns for Season 2 with a hilarious and insightful conversation featuring the stars and creative team behind Hulu's acclaimed comedy "Deli Boys" also kicking off their second season! Joining us for the season premiere are returning cast members Asif Ali, Saagar Shaikh, and Poorna Jagannathan, along with new cast member Fred Armisen and showrunner Michelle Nader. We dive into what fans can expect from Season 2, the show's unique blend of crime, family dysfunction, and outrageous comedy, and how the series continues to push South Asian representation forward while remaining one of the funniest shows on television. The conversation also explores the evolution of these characters, the experience of joining an established ensemble, and the creative process behind bringing the world of "Deli Boys" to life. Whether you've been with the Dar family from the beginning or are just discovering the show, this episode offers plenty of laughs and behind-the-scenes stories from one of streaming's most entertaining comedies. "Deli Boys" Season 2 is now streaming on Hulu and Disney+.

  5. May 22

    162 - Poppy Liu Talks About Her New Film "I Love Boosters" Opening May 22!

    On this episode of “United By Rice,” Ben and Junko are joined by Poppy Liu to discuss her standout role as Jianhu in I Love Boosters, the latest film from visionary filmmaker Boots Riley, which opens in theaters May 22. Known for blending sharp social commentary with surreal humor, Riley’s newest film dives into questions of class, survival, identity, and consumer culture through the lens of a chaotic and deeply human story. During the conversation, Liu shares what drew her to the project, how Riley creates such a fearless collaborative environment on set, and why “I Love Boosters” feels unlike anything else currently being made in Hollywood. Liu also reflects on the importance of authentic Asian representation in film and television, the evolving opportunities for Asian American performers, and how her own experiences have shaped the kinds of stories she wants to tell. The discussion explores the film’s themes surrounding social class, cultural identity, and the complicated morality behind everyday acts of survival, all wrapped inside Riley’s signature blend of satire and emotional honesty. The episode also dives into Liu’s career journey, her comedic instincts as a performer, and what it was like bringing Jianhu to life within one of the year’s most unique indie films. “I Love Boosters” opens in theaters May 22.

  6. May 20

    161 - "Forge" Director/Writer Jing Ai Ng and Actor Andie Ju

    On this episode of “United By Rice,” Ben and Junko sit down with filmmaker Jing Ai Ng and actress Andie Ju to discuss their stylish new crime drama “Forge,” which opened in limited release this past weekend. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Miami’s art world, “Forge” follows a young Chinese American art forger pulled into an increasingly dangerous criminal underworld. During the conversation, Ng and Ju break down the film’s themes of identity, ambition, and belonging while also exploring how art forgery became the perfect lens to examine cultural performance and reinvention within the Asian American experience. Ng discusses the real-life art crime stories and films that inspired “Forge,” including the influence of Michael Mann’s “Miami Vice,” while also sharing how the team managed to create such a visually ambitious film on a modest independent budget. Ju dives into building the character of Coco, a confident and street-smart woman whose presence becomes central to the film’s emotional and criminal tension. The conversation also explores casting chemistry, the challenges of independent filmmaking, shooting in Miami, and the importance of creating Asian American stories that move beyond familiar stereotypes and genres. “Forge” is now playing in select cities.

  7. May 13

    160 - Chin Han, Shan Tsung in Mortal Kombat 2

    Join us as Ben and Junko chat with Chin Han, whose career spans Hollywood blockbusters, iconic franchises, and influential storytelling. In this episode, he shares insights into his roles, the evolution of Asian representation in Hollywood, and his personal connection to projects like Mortal Kombat and The Dark Knight.

  8. May 7

    159 - Adeline Rudolph, Kitana in Mortal Kombat 2

    Junko and Ben chat with Adeline Rudolph, who shares her incredible journey from childhood in Hong Kong to starring as the iconic Kitana. Discover how her mixed Korean and German heritage, early modeling years, and deep dive into video game lore shaped her portrayal of a fierce princess with a moral compass as sharp as her combat skills.

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About

Welcome to United By Rice—the Podcast! At United By Rice, we celebrate the power of storytelling and the voices that bring our culture to life. As an online magazine dedicated to uplifting AANHPI talent in film, television and other mediums, we shine a spotlight on the creators, actors, and narratives reshaping the industry. Co-hosted by actress Junko Goda and TV/Film critic and interviewer Ben Lei

Information

  • Creator
    United By Rice
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    66
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © United By Rice
  • Show Website
    United By Rice