In this thought-provoking episode, we tackle the age-old question: Does money actually buy happiness? We dive into the pressures students—especially Asian students—face when choosing "high-status" careers like medicine, law, or engineering, often driven by financial security rather than passion.

We explore:

• The cultural & familial expectations that push students toward lucrative careers.
• Personal stories—do we really want to chase big paychecks, or are we happier with simpler lives?
• Research & perspectives on income vs. life satisfaction—where’s the tipping point?
• Alternative paths—can passion careers compete with traditional "money-making" ones?

Join us for a candid conversation about success, sacrifice, and whether wealth truly equals fulfillment.

In this episode, we sit down with Professor Jing Ai, a finance expert whose journey from growing up in China to shaping global business perspectives offers unique insights into risk management, financial strategy, and cross-cultural leadership. She shares personal stories—from unexpected career lessons to pivotal failures—and discusses how businesses and governments can navigate an unpredictable world.

We explore:

• How her upbringing in China and career in the U.S. influenced her views on global finance
• The biggest financial risks companies and policymakers are overlooking today
• Real-world examples of resilience in crisis (and what leaders can learn from them)
• Her advice for the next generation of leaders bridging business, policy, and impact

Whether you're in finance, entrepreneurship, or policy—or just curious about the forces shaping our economy—this conversation is packed with actionable wisdom.

What happens when a pre-med student takes a detour to India and discovers a passion for business? Meet Dr. Caroline Fry, Assistant Professor at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, whose career blends healthcare, economics, and policy in unexpected and exciting ways.

In this episode, Caroline shares her journey from medicine to academia and business research—and why she’s passionate about empowering the next generation of women to explore unconventional career paths. We discuss:

• How her time in India reshaped her career trajectory
• Why business and policy skills are game-changers in healthcare
• Advice for young women considering careers at the intersection of medicine, research, and entrepreneurship

Whether you’re drawn to healthcare, business, or just love a good career pivot story, this conversation is packed with insights and inspiration.