Liminal Space 临界之间

C^2 Collective
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Liminal Space dives deep into the messy beauty of living between cultures, identities, and ideologies—especially at the crossroads between China and the West. Hosted by Susan Su and Matthew Lu, two Third-Culture kids in China, we bring you "the good, bad, and the weird" with an insider’s nuance. Each episode, we feature guests navigating their own cultural in-betweenness. Tune in for fresh perspectives and honest dialogue that reveals what lies hidden in life's edges and overlaps. 临界之间 Liminal Space 探索跨文化、跨身份、跨意识形态生活中的“灰色地带”与“缝隙之美”。节目由 Susan Su 与 陆马休 Matthew Lu 主理——两位在中国和美国成长、生活、反思的“第三文化人”。我们关注中国与西方之间的张力与融合，也关注那些生活在转变之中的人：漂泊者、创作者、跨文化专业人士、正在寻找方向的年轻人。这里没有标准答案，只有诚实的对话、细腻的观察，以及那些藏在边缘与重叠处的、往往更真实的东西。 每一期，我们邀请一位正在穿越“临界空间”的嘉宾，聊身份、选择、迷惘与重构，带来新鲜视角与深度思考。 播客视频会同步更新至： https://www.youtube.com/@liminalspacepod 节目文字稿存档： https://liminalspace.transistor.fm/

Episodes

  1. From Oregon to Vietnam to China: Owen Sutter on Ethical Making, Art, and Life in Motion

    12/03/2025

    From Oregon to Vietnam to China: Owen Sutter on Ethical Making, Art, and Life in Motion

    In this episode, we sit down with Owen Sutter—an Oregonian who crossed the Pacific in search of opportunity, challenge, and a life that would never feel boring. From the chaotic charm of Ho Chi Minh City to the hyper-efficient pace of Shenzhen, Owen’s story reflects what happens when you place yourself at the edge of comfort and let the world reshape you. We talk about ethical manufacturing, cultural immersion, and why Owen built a travel backpack brand, XOÀI Packs, rooted in transparency and fair labor. We explore the differences between Vietnamese warmth and Chinese ambition, the loneliness and beauty of building community from scratch, and how oil painting unexpectedly became his anchor in a new city. At its core, this conversation is about designing a life the way you design a product: with intention, curiosity, and an open heart. Key Themes Identity & culture in motionLiving abroad as a catalyst for personal reinventionEthical supply chains & transparent product pricingIndividualism vs. collectivism across culturesCommunity-building in Vietnam and ShenzhenArt as mindfulness & meaning-makingCreativity, risk, and designing a non-boring lifeThe philosophy of liminal spacesTakeaways Liminal spaces help us understand who we are becoming.Cultural immersion—done honestly—reshapes worldview and values.Transparency in pricing and production can benefit both maker and buyer.Career pivots during COVID required self-advocacy and courage.Vietnam taught Owen the power of community, warmth, and slowing down.Ethical manufacturing demands more than certifications; it requires care.Work-life balance dramatically differs across Asia.Painting helps Owen appreciate the world with more attention and presence.Building community in Shenzhen requires intention; hustle culture can isolate.Designing a travel backpack was as much about designing a life.Keeping an open heart invites opportunities you couldn’t plan for.Avoiding a “boring life” became a guiding principle.Being in a liminal space often opens more doors than it closes.Chapters 00:00 — Exploring Liminal Spaces 01:14 — Introducing Owen Sutter 01:58 — The Backpack Business & Transparent Pricing 04:08 — Growing Up in the Pacific Northwest 06:13 — Career Pathfinding During COVID 08:19 — How the Pandemic Shaped Opportunity 12:40 — First Impressions of Vietnam 15:14 — Individualism vs. Collectivism 18:45 — Early Influences and Emerging Goals 23:16 — Inside Vietnam’s Manufacturing Ecosystem 27:41 — Supply Chain Challenges & Factory Realities 30:28 — Cultural Differences in Problem-Solving 33:48 — The Rising Potential of Vietnam 36:25 — Building Community Abroad 41:32 — Navigating Culture in Daily Life 44:15 — The Leap to Shenzhen 46:05 — Art as Expression & Mindfulness 50:36 — Finding an Artistic Community 54:54 — Challenges of Making Friends in Shenzhen 58:35 — Building the Travel Backpack Business 01:02:47 — Ethical Manufacturing & Values 01:06:28 — Vision for XOÀI Packs & Personal Growth 01:09:33 — Immersing in China’s Complexity 01:14:28 — Designing Life Through Opportunity 01:20:44 — Creative Recommendations & Closing Owen's backpack project: www.xoaipacks.comEmail for inquiries: Owen@xoaipacks.com Owen’s Newly Published Travel Writing: https://www.newenglishreview.org/articles/84984-2/ This podcast is brought to you by C^2 Collective, a multicultural nonprofit community empowering young people across China and beyond to think curiously, connect across cultures, and create positive change. We host events, run a social innovation network, and publish the Curation^2 newsletter @ https://csquared-collective.com/ Music by Megan TanArt by Cindy Zhang 从俄勒冈到越南再到中国：Owen Sutter 谈伦理制造、艺术与一段“在路上”的人生 在本期节目中，我们与 Owen Sutter 对谈——一位从俄勒冈跨越太平洋、寻找机会、挑战，以及“不无聊的人生”的年轻人。从胡志明市的混乱魅力，到深圳的高速律动，Owen 的旅程展示了：当一个人甘愿站在舒适区边缘，让世界重新塑造你时，会发生什么。 我们聊到 伦理制造、文化沉浸，以及他为何打造了透明定价、注重公平劳动的旅行背包品牌 XOÀI Packs。我们也讨论越南式的温暖与中国式的雄心之间的差异、在异乡从零建立社区的孤独与美感，以及为什么油画竟成了他在深圳扎根的方式。 归根到底，这期节目探讨的，是如何像设计产品一样——以 意图、好奇、与一颗敞开的心——来设计人生。 核心主题 身份与文化的流动海外生活如何成为自我重塑的催化剂伦理供应链与透明定价个人主义与集体主义的文化差异在越南与深圳建立社区艺术作为正念与意义的来源创造力、风险，以及拒绝“无聊人生”“过渡空间”（liminal space）的哲学收获要点 过渡空间帮助我们理解正在成为的自己。真诚的文化沉浸会重塑价值观与人生观。透明的生产与定价，对消费者与生产者都有益。COVID 时期的职业转向需要自我争取与勇气。越南教会了 Owen 社区、温暖和生活节奏的力量。伦理制造不仅是认证，更是一种关怀。亚洲各地的工作文化与生活平衡差异巨大。绘画让人以更专注的方式欣赏世界。在深圳建立社区需要刻意行动；“奋斗文化”容易让人孤立。设计旅行背包，也是设计人生的一部分。保持一颗敞开的心，会迎来意想不到的机遇。“不要过无聊人生”成为他的准则。身处“过渡空间”，往往能看到更多可能。章节结构 00:00 — 探索 Liminal Spaces 01:14 — 认识 Owen Sutter 01:58 — 背包品牌与透明定价 04:08 — 成长于美国西北 06:13 — COVID 期间的职业探索 08:19 — 疫情如何改变机会 12:40 — 对越南的第一印象 15:14 — 个人主义 vs. 集体主义 18:45 — 早期影响与未来目标 23:16 — 越南制造业的内部生态 27:41 — 供应链挑战与工厂现实 30:28 — 文化差异与问题解决方式 33:48 — 越南的潜力 36:25 — 在海外建立社区 41:32 — 日常生活中的文化碰撞 44:15 — 移居深圳的跃迁 46:05 — 艺术、表达与正念 50:36 — 寻找艺术社群 54:54 — 在深圳交朋友的挑战 58:35 — 构建旅行背包事业 01:02:47 — 伦理制造与价值观 01:06:28 — XOÀI Packs 的愿景与个人成长 01:09:33 — 深度融入中国 01:14:28 — 用机会设计人生 01:20:44 — 创意推荐与结束语 相关链接 Owen 的背包项目：www.xoaipacks.com 商业合作邮箱：Owen@xoaipacks.comOwen’s 新出版的旅游文章: https://www.newenglishreview.org/articles/84984-2/ 关于本播客 本播客由 C² Collective 出品——一个跨文化的非营利青年社区，致力于激发好奇、连接文化、并推动积极改变。我们举办活动、运营社会创新网络，并出版双语通讯 Curation²：https://csquared-collective.com/ 音乐：Megan Tan视觉设计：Cindy Zhang

    1h 28m
  2. A Chef's Journey Between Shanghai and Melbourne: Tina Zhao on Food, Identity, and Creative Freedom

    11/01/2025

    A Chef's Journey Between Shanghai and Melbourne: Tina Zhao on Food, Identity, and Creative Freedom

    What happens when love sends you halfway across the world, and food brings you back home? In this episode, Susan and I sit down with Tina Zhao — chef, entrepreneur, and founder of Alinta, a Shanghai restaurant that fuses Australian ease with Chinese precision. Tina first left Shanghai at 17 to chase love in Melbourne, only to discover something else entirely: her calling in the kitchen. From culinary school to fine dining, from private dining startups to reality TV, Tina’s story charts the high heat of the food industry across the creativity, the chaos, and the craving for ownership. We talk about what it means to build something that’s 100% yours, the pressures behind “celebrity chef” culture, and how food can become a language of identity, one that bridges continents, careers, and selves. Takeaways： Tina moved to Melbourne at 17 to chase love.Cultural shock was significant upon arriving in Australia.Tina's culinary journey began in culinary school.She found her passion for cooking quickly.Returning to China inspired her entrepreneurial spirit.Private dining became a successful venture for Tina.Tina's experiences on cooking shows were intense and stressful.She values privacy over fame despite her celebrity status.Tina has launched food startups in China.Her journey reflects the dynamic food industry landscape. Tina experienced significant stress in her previous roles due to high expectations and the need for constant creativity.She transitioned from the food industry to a consulting role, where she learned valuable skills but felt constrained by corporate structures.Tina's desire to open a restaurant stemmed from her passion for food and a need for creative freedom.Alinta, her restaurant, represents a fusion of Australian and Chinese culinary influences.Building a unique brand identity was crucial for Alinta, including designing the restaurant and creating a mascot.Food serves as a cultural connector, allowing Tina to bridge her experiences in Australia and China.Customer loyalty is challenging in the competitive Shanghai market, but Tina values the relationships she builds with regulars.Tina emphasizes the importance of having something that is 100% yours, whether it's a business or a hobby.She aims to help others in the food industry by sharing her knowledge and experiences.Tina's journey reflects the importance of optimism and taking risks in pursuing one's passions.Chapters00:00 Exploring Liminal Spaces: Introduction to the Podcast05:20 Cultural Adaptation: Embracing Australian Life11:06 From Culinary School to Fine Dining: Building a Career16:30 The Entrepreneurial Spirit: Returning to China20:22 The Reality of the Food Industry: Love and Stress25:06 The Pressure of Fine Dining28:50 Building Connections Through Food30:44 The Journey to Television Stardom31:37 Navigating the Challenges of Cooking Shows32:38 The Fast-Paced Life in Shanghai33:36 Cultural Adjustments After Returning to Shanghai34:44 The Evolution of Shanghai's Food Scene35:37 The Impact of Technology on Dining36:35 Reflections on Fame and Privacy37:26 Transitioning from Celebrity to Business38:25 The Rise of Healthy Food Trends39:14 Lessons from Food Startups40:12 Consulting and Corporate Life41:06 Balancing Creativity and Business42:01 The Future of Culinary Ventures45:27 Transitioning from Consulting to Culinary Ventures49:10 The Impact of COVID-19 on Career Choices52:53 The Birth of Alinta: A Culinary Dream Realized57:43 Creating a Unique Brand Identity01:03:22 Unexpected Encounters: A Full Circle Moment01:04:16 Food as a Cultural Bridge01:07:36 Evolving Menu Design for Customer Engagement01:11:03 Adapting to Customer Preferences and Trends01:12:33 The Journey of Entrepreneurship and Ownership01:15:46 Vision for the Future in the Food Industry01:18:06 Embracing Challenges and Positive Mindset01:19:11 Recommendations and Personal Favorites Little Red (小红书): tinayuezhaoInstagram: tinayyueEmail Inquiries: tinayuezhao@gmail.com This podcast is brought to you by C^2 Collective, a multicultural nonprofit community empowering young people across China and beyond to think curiously, connect across cultures, and create positive change. We host events, run a social innovation network, and publish the Curation^2 newsletter @ https://csquared-collective.com/ Music by Megan TanArt by Cindy Zhang 当爱情带你远渡重洋，而食物又带你回家 当爱情让你漂洋过海，而食物又将你带回故乡，会发生什么？ 在本期节目中，Susan 和我与 赵悦 Tina Zhao 对谈——她是一位厨师、创业者，也是上海餐厅 Alinta 的创始人。Alinta 将澳洲的轻松与中国的精致融合在一张餐桌上。17 岁那年，Tina 为了爱情离开上海前往墨尔本，却意外在厨房中找到真正的热情。从厨艺学校到高级餐厅，从私人定制餐饮到电视节目，她的故事横跨文化与行业，在高压与创造之间不断重塑自我。 我们聊到如何打造一个“百分之百属于自己”的事业，谈“名厨文化”背后的压力，也探讨食物如何成为一种跨越地域与身份的语言——连接大陆、职业与自我。 主要收获： 17 岁赴墨尔本追爱，却意外开启厨艺人生初到澳洲的文化冲击让她重新认识自我在厨艺学校找到了对烹饪的热爱回国后激发了创业精神私人定制餐饮项目取得成功参加电视美食节目的经历紧张而高压尽管拥有明星厨师身份，她仍更重视隐私在中国创办多家餐饮初创企业经历了行业的快速变迁与高强度创造压力后来转入咨询行业，虽收获职场经验，却受限于企业结构渴望重获创作自由，于是决定开设自己的餐厅Alinta 将澳洲与中国的风味、记忆与技艺融为一体她亲自打造餐厅品牌、设计形象与吉祥物认为食物是文化的桥梁，连接澳洲与中国的经历在竞争激烈的上海市场中，她珍视与常客的长期关系她强调每个人都需要一个“百分之百属于自己”的空间希望通过分享经验，帮助更多餐饮从业者她的经历展现了乐观、勇气与冒险精神的重要性节目章节： 00:00 探索“临界空间”：节目介绍 05:20 跨文化适应：融入澳洲生活 11:06 从厨艺学校到高级餐厅：职业起点 16:30 创业精神：回到中国 20:22 餐饮行业的现实：爱与压力 25:06 精致餐饮背后的高压 28:50 用食物建立人与人的联系 30:44 走上荧幕：厨艺节目经历 31:37 面对烹饪节目的挑战 32:38 上海的快节奏生活 33:36 回国后的文化再适应 34:44 上海餐饮业的演变 35:37 科技如何改变餐饮体验 36:35 关于名气与隐私的思考 37:26 从“明星厨师”到创业者的转型 38:25 健康饮食新趋势的兴起 39:14 餐饮创业的经验教训 40:12 咨询行业的学习与限制 41:06 平衡创意与商业的挑战 42:01 餐饮事业的未来展望 45:27 从咨询到再创业的转折 49:10 疫情对职业选择的影响 52:53 Alinta 诞生：一个烹饪梦想的实现 57:43 打造独特品牌与形象设计 01:03:22 意外重逢：命运的回环 01:04:16 食物作为文化的桥梁 01:07:36 菜单设计与顾客互动的演进 01:11:03 适应顾客偏好与餐饮趋势 01:12:33 创业与“拥有感”的旅程 01:15:46 对餐饮未来的展望 01:18:06 拥抱挑战与积极心态 01:19:11 推荐与个人喜好 联系方式 小红书 | tinayuezhao Instagram | tinayyue 商务邮箱 | tinayuezhao@gmail.com 关于本播客 本播客由 C² Collective 出品。 C² 是一个跨文化的非营利青年社区，致力于激发好奇、促进连接、并推动积极改变。我们在中国及世界各地举办活动、运营社会创新网络，并出版双语通讯 Curation²。 了解更多内容，请访问 👉 https://csquared-collective.com/ 音乐：Megan Tan视觉设计：Cindy Zhang

    1h 22m
  3. From Chinese Rock Star to Cross-Cultural Storyteller: Henry Kong on Music, Identity, and Cultural Exchange

    10/02/2025

    From Chinese Rock Star to Cross-Cultural Storyteller: Henry Kong on Music, Identity, and Cultural Exchange

    What does it mean to grow up with music, and then grow into it? In this episode of Liminal Space, we speak with Henry Kong—festival organizer, music promoter, and 75th descendant of Confucius—about his journey from teenage rock star to cultural bridge-builder. Henry reflects on his first bands, the vibrant indie scene in Beijing, and the challenges of staying authentic as commercialization reshapes China’s music industry. He also opens up about cultural adaptation as an international student in the U.S. (from Beijing to Bloomington, Indiana), the tension between identity and opportunity, and why storytelling is the key to meaningful cultural exchange. From the chaos of touring to the quiet lessons of miscommunication, Henry shares the risks and rewards of carving out a career in music. For aspiring creatives, his advice is simple but vital: don’t be afraid to try anything. Takeaways: Henry Kong is the 75th descendant of Confucius. (we don't know for sure lol!)His journey in music began with a middle school band.He took over a music festival in high school.Henry's experiences shaped his focus and confidence.The indie music scene in Beijing was vibrant and supportive.Commercialization has impacted the authenticity of music.Cultural adaptation is crucial for international students.Maintaining authenticity is important in cultural exchange.Henry's college experience was influenced by his music background.His unique story helped him stand out in college applications. Henry Kong transitioned from tech to music promotion.He emphasizes the importance of pursuing one's passion.Cultural exchange is vital in the music industry.The Chinese music scene is rapidly evolving.Henry's first promotion experience was with the band Escape Plan.He enjoys being a tour guide for artists.Miscommunication can lead to challenges on tour.Henry aims to be a key player in the Chinese music industry.He believes in starting small and scaling up.Storytelling is essential in bridging cultural gaps.Chapters:00:00 Exploring Liminal Spaces in Identity and Culture01:11 Henry Kong: A Unique Journey in Music and Festivals04:26 From Rock Star to Music Promoter: Henry's Background08:54 The Evolution of a Music Career: From School Bands to Touring15:21 Navigating Cultural Differences: Experiences in America23:41 The Changing Landscape of the Indie Music Scene28:14 College Life and Music: Balancing Passion and Education39:21 Entrepreneurial Ventures: Lessons from Startups40:46 The Journey into Music and Entrepreneurship42:24 Building a Network in the Music Industry44:06 Navigating Challenges in Touring44:57 The Dual Role of Cultural Exchange46:02 The Human Side of Touring52:05 Miscommunication and Crisis Management52:31 Balancing Education and Career54:23 Adapting to Changes in the Industry56:04 Consulting and Creative Collaborations57:13 Opportunities for Cultural Exchange58:46 Reviving the Live Entertainment Scene01:03:43 Future Plans and Aspirations01:05:58 The Dream of Cultural Storytelling01:08:18 Advice for Aspiring Creatives01:13:51 Recommendations for Films and Inspiration Henry Kong's Email: hkong@neosoul.live This podcast is brought to you by C^2 Collective, a multicultural nonprofit community empowering young people across China and beyond to think curiously, connect across cultures, and create positive change. We host events, run a social innovation network, and publish the Curation^2 newsletter @ https://csquared-collective.com/ Music by Megan TanArt by Cindy Zhang 《摇滚之后，他选择讲述文化的故事——Henry Kong 的音乐与身份之旅》 成长于音乐，又在音乐中成长，这意味着什么？ 在本期 Liminal Space 中，我们对话 Henry Kong——音乐节主理人、演出推广人，同时也是孔子的第75代后人（未经考证）。Henry 分享了他从少年摇滚乐手到文化桥梁建设者的独特旅程。 他回顾了自己最初的乐队经历、北京独立音乐场景的蓬勃与支持氛围，以及在商业化浪潮下坚持真实与独立的挑战。他也谈到自己作为国际学生在美国（从北京到印第安纳州布鲁明顿）的适应过程，如何在身份与机遇之间寻找平衡，以及为什么 “讲故事”是有意义的文化交流的关键。 从巡演的混乱到沟通失误中的安静教训，Henry 分享了在音乐行业中冒险与收获的双重体验。对于年轻的创意者，他的建议简单却重要：不要害怕尝试一切。 节目要点: Henry Kong 是孔子第75代后裔（未经证实haha）中学时期就开始组乐队高中时接手并运营音乐节这些经历塑造了他的专注与自信北京的独立音乐场景曾经充满活力与支持商业化影响了音乐的真实性文化适应对国际学生至关重要在文化交流中保持真实尤为重要Henry 的大学经历深受音乐背景影响独特的故事让他在大学申请中脱颖而出从科技领域转型进入音乐推广他强调追随热情的重要性文化交流在音乐行业中举足轻重中国音乐场景正在迅速发展他第一次推广的乐队是 Escape Plan喜欢当艺术家的“导游”巡演中沟通不畅会带来挑战目标是成为中国音乐行业的重要力量相信要从小做起、逐步扩大讲故事是弥合文化差距的核心节目章节: 00:00 探索身份与文化的“边界地带” 01:11 Henry Kong：音乐与音乐节的独特旅程 04:26 从摇滚乐手到音乐推广人 08:54 音乐生涯的演变：从校乐队到巡演 15:21 跨文化经历：在美国的适应 23:41 独立音乐场景的变化 28:14 大学与音乐：如何平衡热情与教育 39:21 创业经历与启示 40:46 音乐与创业之路 42:24 建立音乐行业人脉 44:06 巡演中的挑战 44:57 文化交流的双重角色 46:02 巡演的人性面 52:05 沟通失误与危机管理 52:31 教育与职业的平衡 54:23 适应行业变化 56:04 咨询与创意合作 57:13 文化交流的机会 58:46 复兴现场娱乐 01:03:43 未来计划与抱负 01:05:58 文化故事叙述的梦想 01:08:18 给年轻创意者的建议 01:13:51 电影与灵感推荐 Henry Kong邮箱: hkong@neosoul.live 出品方: 本播客由 C² Collective 出品。 我们是一个多元文化非营利社群，致力于帮助中国及全球的年轻人保持好奇心、跨文化交流，并推动积极的社会改变。我们组织活动、运营社会创新网络，并每周发布双语通讯 《Curation²》。 🔗 官网 & 通讯订阅： https://csquared-collective.com/ 音乐：Megan Tan 视觉：Cindy Zhang

    1h 20m
  4. From Texas to Jiangyin: A Naval Engineer’s Journey in China w/ Julia Meyn

    09/11/2025

    From Texas to Jiangyin: A Naval Engineer’s Journey in China w/ Julia Meyn

    What does it mean to build something massive, precise, and powerful—while rebuilding your own sense of belonging? In this episode of Liminal Space, host Susan Su and co-host Matt Lu talk with Julia Meyn, a naval engineer from Texas now working in Jiangyin, China. Julia shares her journey into the world of shipbuilding, from feeling like an outsider in her engineering program to forging a place for herself in China’s high-speed maritime industry. We explore what it’s like to live and work in a small industrial town as a young foreign woman, the cultural differences that show up on factory floors, and how China's shipyards are quietly leading the global push for cleaner, more efficient vessels. Julia reflects on daily life in Jiangyin, the slow evolution of tech in the maritime world, and the personal growth that comes with stepping far outside your comfort zone. It’s a conversation about metal, memory, and making it work—one conversation, one weld, one word at a time. Takeaways: Julia's journey to shipbuilding began with a passion for languages and cultures.She felt out of place in college due to her lack of a familial connection to shipbuilding.China's shipbuilding industry is massive and global, with a focus on efficiency.Surveying in the maritime industry involves verifying compliance with safety standards.Julia's first impressions of Jiangyin were shaped by her experiences in Shanghai.Finding community in a small town can be challenging, but Julia adapted by expanding her social circles.China's shipyards are capable of building 40 ships a year, showcasing their efficiency.The maritime industry is slow to adapt to new technologies, but there is a push for greener practices.Ship owners play a crucial role in commissioning ships, often opting for foreign classification societies.Innovative designs, like wind sails, are being explored to enhance ship efficiency. Implementing novel technology in shipbuilding is challenging.Daily interactions involve navigating language barriers and cultural differences.Experience in China accelerates learning and skill development.Building relationships with local stakeholders is crucial.The shipbuilding industry offers diverse daily tasks and challenges.Cultural integration involves understanding social dynamics and expectations.Embracing change can lead to personal growth and new opportunities.Learning a new language enhances communication and connection.The importance of patience and observation in a foreign work environment.Future career paths may differ significantly from current experiences.Chapters:02:02 Julia Meyn: A Unique Journey in Shipbuilding02:50 The Intersection of Cultures: Julia's Background and Interests06:00 Navigating the Maritime Industry: Julia's College Experience07:02 Surveying in Shipbuilding: Julia's Current Role09:47 The Decision to Move to China: Opportunities and Challenges14:33 First Impressions of Jiangyin: Adapting to Small Town Life17:26 Building Community: Finding Connections in Jiangyin20:18 Shipbuilding in China: Efficiency and Scale25:33 Comparing American and Chinese Shipbuilding Practices29:03 Environmental Sustainability in Maritime: The Shift to LNG31:15 Global Shipping Dynamics: Ownership and Production32:41 Navigating Classification Societies33:59 The Role of Third-Party Inspectors36:44 Building Relationships in Ship Construction38:07 Innovative Ship Design: Wind Sails42:27 Cultural Attitudes Towards New Technology45:04 Daily Life as a Maritime Engineer in China51:49 Lessons Learned in Two Years of Experience56:15 Navigating New Construction Challenges58:22 Future Aspirations and Career Growth01:02:33 Social Challenges in a Small Town01:11:30 Embracing Change and Overcoming Fear01:15:40 Recommendations and Reflections Julia's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-meyn-480326185/Julia's Email: jmeyn@eagle.org This podcast is brought to you by C^2 Collective, a multicultural nonprofit community empowering young people across China and beyond to think curiously, connect across cultures, and create positive change. We host events, run a social innovation network, and publish the Curation^2 newsletter @ https://csquared-collective.com/ Video Format on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NftknUfexXY&t=329s&ab_channel=LiminalSpacePodcast Music by Megan TanArt by Cindy Zhang 播客简介（中文） 《从德州到江阴：一位造船工程师的中国故事》  在建造一艘庞大、精密、强大的船只的同时，如何重新构建自己的归属感？ 在本期《Liminal Space》中，主持人 Susan Su 与联合主持人 Matthew Lu 对话Julia Meyn——一位来自美国德克萨斯州、现居中国江阴的海事工程师。Julia 分享了她进入船舶制造行业的独特旅程，从大学期间在工程专业感到格格不入，到如今在中国这个高速发展的造船强国中找到自己的定位。 本期节目聚焦于：作为一名年轻的外国女性，在中国小城市生活与工作的真实体验；在船厂的日常中，如何面对文化差异与语言障碍；以及中国造船业如何在全球范围内引领高效、绿色转型。Julia 也反思了江阴的生活节奏、海事行业的技术变革，以及身处陌生环境中所带来的个人成长。 这是一次关于钢铁、记忆与适应力的对话——每一次交谈、每一道焊缝、每一个词语，都是她造船也造人生的旅程。 重点摘录 Julia 进入船舶行业的初心来自于对语言与文化的热爱大学期间，她因缺乏家族背景而在工程专业感到孤独中国造船业规模庞大、全球领先，效率极高海事“检验”工作涉及对安全规范的全面审核Julia 对江阴的第一印象深受在上海生活经历的影响在小城市建立社交网络虽然困难，但她逐步拓展了自己的朋友圈一家中国船厂一年可建造多达 40 艘船，效率惊人船舶行业技术更新缓慢，但正逐步向环保能源（如 LNG）靠拢许多船东仍倾向选择国外船级社进行认证像“风帆”这样的创新设计正被探索以提高船舶能效新技术在船舶制造领域的落地难度很大日常工作中要不断跨越语言与文化的鸿沟在中国工作极大加快了学习曲线与专业成长与本地相关方的关系建立至关重要造船行业每天面对的任务丰富且挑战多变融入当地文化需要理解复杂的社会互动规则接纳变化是走向成长与机会的关键一步学习语言能有效提升沟通效率与人际连结在异国职场中，耐心与观察是非常重要的能力未来的职业路径或将与当前截然不同节目章节 02:02 Julia Meyn：造船之路的特别启程 02:50 跨文化成长背景与兴趣 06:00 初入海事行业：大学阶段的探索与挑战 07:02 当前岗位：船舶检验工作日常 09:47 来中国的决定：机遇与未知 14:33 初见江阴：从大城市到小镇的适应 17:26 社交网络建设：如何在新环境中建立联系 20:18 中国造船业的规模与效率 25:33 中美造船实践的对比 29:03 绿色航运趋势：LNG 与环保探索 31:15 全球造船格局：船东与生产之间的博弈 32:41 船级社的角色与影响 33:59 第三方检验员的职责 36:44 船厂中的关系建立与协作 38:07 船舶创新设计：风帆的可能性 42:27 对新技术的文化接受度 45:04 海事工程师在中国的日常节奏 51:49 工作两年的核心收获 56:15 面对新船建造挑战的经验 58:22 对未来职业发展的思考 01:02:33 小城市生活的社交挑战 01:11:30 拥抱变化，面对不确定性 01:15:40 给年轻人的建议与反思 来宾资料 & 出品机构 Julia 的 LinkedIn 简历: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-meyn-480326185/Julia电子邮件: jmeyn@eagle.org 本播客由 C² Collective 出品 我们是一个多元文化非营利社群，致力于赋能中国及全球的年轻人——鼓励他们以好奇心思考、以真实连接、以创造力推动积极改变。我们组织线下活动，推动社会创新项目，并每周发布中英双语的灵感通讯《Curation²》官网可以获得更多信息。 官网：www.csquared-collective.com 封面设计：Cindy Zhang音乐制作：Megan Tan

    1h 21m
  5. From Chi-Town to China: Navigating Identity, Supply Chain, and the China Dream with Joshua Charles Woodard

    07/26/2025

    From Chi-Town to China: Navigating Identity, Supply Chain, and the China Dream with Joshua Charles Woodard

    What does it really mean to live in-between—cultures, dreams, identities? Joshua Charles Woodard, entrepreneur, engineer, artist, and nightlife maestro, has spent his life exploring this very question. In our first episode, Josh (affectionately known as "Jashy") shares the incredible journey that took him from Chicago's South Side to Beijing’s prestigious Tsinghua University as a Schwarzman Scholar. We dive deep into the complexities of Josh's identity and experiences as a Black man navigating the largely homogeneous cultural landscape of China. He challenges common narratives about China, unpacks the vital role of social media in bridging cross-cultural divides, and offers sharp insights drawn from his hands-on experiences in China’s bustling manufacturing industry. Wrapping up with wisdom for young people to lean into risks and unconventional paths, Josh reminds us that the richest journeys often unfold where boundaries blur. Takeaways: Understanding cultural narratives is crucial for bridging gaps.The American dream is not equally accessible to all.Social media engagement is key for modern businesses.Experiencing life in China offers unique insights.Manufacturing in China has unparalleled advantages.Being a minority in China presents unique challenges.Building connections is essential for success in business.Embracing risks in youth can lead to unexpected opportunities.Education and exposure to different cultures are invaluable.The future of global manufacturing is intertwined with China's economy.Chapters:00:00 Exploring Identity and Culture01:10 Introducing Joshua Charles Woodard02:07 Navigating Social Media Dynamics06:02 Bridging Cultural Gaps in Business09:38 Josh's Journey from Chicago to China16:14 The MIT Experience and Its Impact18:12 The Journey to MIT: Overcoming Obstacles22:10 Life at MIT: Community and Challenges28:05 The Schwarzman Scholars Program: A New Chapter32:48 Cultural Insights: Navigating Life as a Foreigner in China41:03 Visionary Perspectives on Mixed Heritage in Sports (This is a joke lol)41:35 Navigating the Landscape of Shenzhen's Manufacturing Scene51:05 The Future of Manufacturing: Insights from China55:10 Building Bridges: The Role of Sparrows in Global Manufacturing56:40 Advice for the Youth: Embracing Risks and Opportunities The Sparrows Official Website: https://thesparrows.co/Josh's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jcwoodard\Josh's Instagram @jashsparrows: https://www.instagram.com/jashsparrows This podcast is brought to you by C^2 Collective, a multicultural nonprofit community empowering young people across China and beyond to think curiously, connect across cultures, and create positive change. We host events, run a social innovation network, and publish the Curation^2 newsletter @ https://csquared-collective.com/ Video Format on YouTube: https://youtu.be/MFW1f_aEXZw?si=J8GlwbetXXZ86qCa Music by Megan TanArt by Cindy Zhang 第一期｜Josh Woodard：跨越文化的工程师、艺术家与夜生活策展人 生活在“夹缝”中——文化之间、梦想之间、身份之间，到底意味着什么？Joshua Charles Woodard（朋友们都叫他“Jashy”）一位身兼企业家、工程师、摄影师和派对主理人的“斜杠青年”，多年来一直在用自己的方式寻找答案。 在本期播客中，Josh 分享了他从芝加哥南区一路走到清华大学施瓦茨曼学者项目的跨国旅程。他坦率讲述了作为一名非裔美国人在中国这样一个文化相对单一的环境中所经历的身份认同挑战，也打破了许多关于中国的刻板印象。他还谈到社交媒体在中西文化对话中扮演的重要角色，以及自己如何在深圳制造业一线积累起独到的商业观察。 Josh的经历提醒我们：最丰富的人生往往发生在模糊与过渡的边界地带。他也鼓励年轻人勇敢跳出常规，去走那些“非主流”的道路。 精彩要点： 理解文化叙事是跨文化交流的关键“美国梦”并非对所有人都平等开放社交媒体是连接世界与商业的重要工具在中国生活能带来独特的洞察与视角中国制造业具备全球少有的优势在中国作为少数族裔也有其挑战与机遇搭建人脉是做生意成功的关键年轻时敢于冒险，常会意外打开新世界教育与文化多样性的体验价值巨大全球制造的未来，将不可避免地与中国深度绑定时间轴： 00:00 身份与文化的探索 01:10 嘉宾介绍：Joshua Charles Woodard 02:07 社交媒体如何影响全球叙事 06:02 商业实践中的文化桥梁 09:38 从芝加哥到中国：Josh的故事 16:14 麻省理工（MIT）的经历与影响 18:12 通往MIT之路：不平凡的背景 22:10 MIT生活：社群与挑战 28:05 清华施瓦茨曼学者项目 32:48 外国人在中国：文化适应的日常 41:03 混血运动员的未来构想（笑点） 41:35 深圳制造业生态的观察 51:05 中国制造的未来趋势 55:10 小麻雀、大格局：Josh的全球制造业愿景 56:40 给年轻人的建议：敢走不一样的路 更多链接： The Sparrows 官网：https://thesparrows.co/Josh 的领英：https://www.linkedin.com/in/jcwoodardJosh 的 Instagram：@jashsparrows本播客由 C^2 Collective 发起制作。我们是一个跨文化的青年社群，致力于激发思辨精神、打破文化边界，并推动青年群体在中国及世界各地创造积极的改变。我们举办活动、连接跨领域人才，并出版每周双语内容精选栏目 Curation²。欢迎访问我们的网站了解更多：https://csquared-collective.com/ 音乐由 Megan Tan 创作封面设计：Cindy Zhang

    1h 8m
  • 5 Episodes

About

Liminal Space dives deep into the messy beauty of living between cultures, identities, and ideologies—especially at the crossroads between China and the West. Hosted by Susan Su and Matthew Lu, two Third-Culture kids in China, we bring you "the good, bad, and the weird" with an insider’s nuance. Each episode, we feature guests navigating their own cultural in-betweenness. Tune in for fresh perspectives and honest dialogue that reveals what lies hidden in life's edges and overlaps. 临界之间 Liminal Space 探索跨文化、跨身份、跨意识形态生活中的“灰色地带”与“缝隙之美”。节目由 Susan Su 与 陆马休 Matthew Lu 主理——两位在中国和美国成长、生活、反思的“第三文化人”。我们关注中国与西方之间的张力与融合，也关注那些生活在转变之中的人：漂泊者、创作者、跨文化专业人士、正在寻找方向的年轻人。这里没有标准答案，只有诚实的对话、细腻的观察，以及那些藏在边缘与重叠处的、往往更真实的东西。 每一期，我们邀请一位正在穿越“临界空间”的嘉宾，聊身份、选择、迷惘与重构，带来新鲜视角与深度思考。 播客视频会同步更新至： https://www.youtube.com/@liminalspacepod 节目文字稿存档： https://liminalspace.transistor.fm/

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  • Creator
    C^2 Collective
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    5
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 C^2 Collective
  • Show Website
    Liminal Space 临界之间