In the second episode of Hibiku Kotoba, Kathleen interviews Mia Ayumi Malhotra, a Bay Area Yonsei poet, editor and author. They talk about Mia's journey in writing, poetry, its hardships and joys, and how she found a deeper connection with her Nikkei roots while working on her most recent publication, Mothersalt. In Mothersalt, Mia shares her experiences of motherhood from pregancy to child-rearing.

Mia shares her poem, "To My Many Mothers, Issei and Nisei" from her book "Isako, Isako" to close the episode. You can find Mia and her works on her website: https://miamalhotra.com/

Anthologies mentioned:
The Gate of Memory: Poems by Descendants of Nikkei Wartime Incarceration
They Rise Like a Wave: An Anthology of Asian American Women Poets

In this episode, Kathleen talks with former Executive Director of J-Sei, Diane Wong, and newest Executive Director of J-Sei, Ky Lam. They talk about their backgrounds, their experience in the nonprofit world, what their excited for in that space and what hopes for the future of J-Sei as an organization.

Hibiku Kotoba is produced by Kathleen Wong and thanks to J-Sei and the K/T Foundation for their support. 

Welcome to Hibiku Kotoba, J-Sei's newest podcast with host and producer Kathleen Wong. Episodes will drop monthly.