40. Margaret Suzy Wong Chan: Breast Cancer survivor on tai chi and Jamaican culture

I’m wrapping up breast cancer awareness month with a very special interview… my mom! Margaret Suzy Wong Chan joins me on the podcast today, and it is also her 70th birthday! Happy birthday Mom! We discuss her experience with breast cancer, and her healing process. My mom did not opt for chemotherapy, but instead healed with her strong spirit and practiced ancient art form of tai chi chuan. We of course do not recommend this for everyone, but listen on to hear survival story. We also go back in time and discuss her music career in Jamaica that carried over to the US. I love hearing about her life as a singer on the road, and she shares some fun stories of her adventures.

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derek johnson

39. Derek Johnson on law enforcement

Sifu Derek Johnson is a kung fu instructor of the Jow Ga system, former marine, and retired law enforcement officer.  For over 25 years, he served in numerous law enforcement specialties.  He was assigned to many agencies in Washington D.C. and Baltimore, such as: violent crimes, undercover narcotics, community outreach, leadership as a Patrol Commander, internal affairs, and worked with the DEA and FBI departments.  I have been outraged for the families that have lost loved ones to senseless shootings, and wonder why is this happening?  Do officers need more training or stricter screening and guidelines?  What is the problem?  Derek sheds light on the training many law enforcement officers receive and what can be going through their minds in these high stakes situations.  He also shares my frustration, and speaks openly as both a black American and a law enforcement officer on the Black Lives Matter movement.  I strongly believe in the movement and was grateful that Derek was so open with me on this sensitive subject.  I also wanted to understand the protocol for officers in aggressive situations, and what we can do to help change the perception of law enforcement officers in the community.

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38.Robin Maynard on breast cancer awareness

In honor of Pink October, I am interview amazing breast cancer awareness advocates and survivors. Robin Maynard has served the citizens of Orange County as a Paramedic and Crime Scene Investigator since 1995. After the loss of her Mom Libby to breast cancer in 2006, Robin knew saving lives would take on a whole new path and with that, Libby’s Legacy was formed in 2007.  Robin worked full time as a CSI while running the foundation until 2009 when she cashed in her 401K and left her career to dedicate herself to this foundation in her Mother’s honor and memory. Robin is a passionate advocate who is committed to ensuring every woman gets the breast health care and treatment they need to live a long and full life. I enjoyed meeting Robin and truly believe in the work she is doing. I am inspired after listening to Robin’s story and motivated by her passion and devotion to the cause.

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Dan Springen

37. Dan Springen, director of the Orlando Film Festival, on indie filmmaking

Daniel Springen is the executive director of the Orlando Film Festival and an award winning director. We talk about the ins and outs of film festivals and the challenges indie filmmakers face today.   He shares tips for indie filmmakers on how to make a quality film on a small budget, plus what curators are looking for when choosing a film to screen at a festival. My film, Pui Chan: Kung Fu Pioneer screened at his film festival in 2012, and it was one of the most fun festivals we attended. The parties, panels, and workshops were fantastic, and the event has gotten even bigger over the years. Screening 411 films over 8 days, this is an event not to be missed in Orlando. Check out the Orlando Film Festival October 19-26 at the Cobb Theater in downtown Orlando.

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