Banana Lab

In this episode of Banana Lab, we are joined by Alwyn Tan — a photographer, videographer, drone pilot, and marathon runner based in Auckland.Alwyn reflects on growing up between Malaysia and New Zealand, adapting between cultures, and how New Zealand eventually became home.We also talk about the creative industry, commercial photography, marathon training, and the differences in work-life culture between Malaysia and New Zealand.A relaxed and thoughtful conversation about creativity, identity, and balance.

In this episode of Banana Lab, Romy Lee steps into the guest seat to share her personal story.Romy reflects on growing up as a Korean New Zealander, navigating identity, sexuality, and significant mental health challenges from a young age.She shares her experience with addiction, spending 18 months in rehabilitation, and the journey towards recovery.Now working as a mental health and addiction practitioner, Romy discusses representation, cultural stigma, and the importance of compassion in supporting others.A powerful and honest conversation about identity, recovery, and purpose.

In this episode of Banana Lab, we speak with Dr Janet Lee, an emergency physician working in Aotearoa New Zealand.Janet shares her experience growing up as a 1.5 generation Korean New Zealander and how that shaped her sense of identity and belonging.We discuss the realities of working in emergency medicine, the emotional challenges of facing life-and-death situations, and the importance of compassion in healthcare.This conversation explores culture, identity, and the human side of medicine.

In this episode of Banana Lab, we’re joined by Nancy Lu, Member of Parliament, finance leader, and migrant New Zealander.Nancy reflects on arriving in Aotearoa as a child with only a few English words, learning to adapt to a new culture, and discovering strength in being different. She shares the story of her parents’ sacrifices, the experiences that shaped her resilience, and the unconventional path that led her from finance to Harvard — and ultimately into politics.We explore identity, representation, family, public service, and what it means to help build a country where diverse communities feel seen and connected.A thoughtful and inspiring conversation about leadership, belonging, and creating pathways for others.

In this episode, Romy interviews Alex Kim — producer, creative, and the other half of the Banana Lab Podcast.Alex shares his journey growing up Asian in Aotearoa, navigating identity and expectations, and discovering creativity as both refuge and purpose.The conversation dives into childhood stories, school experiences, the pressure to perform, finding belonging, and the quiet realities behind building creative work.Together, Romy and Alex explore the unique mix of humour, chaos, emotion, and reflection that shapes the Asian New Zealand experience.This is one of the most personal episodes yet — warm, funny, and incredibly relatable.

In this episode of Banana Lab, Romy Lee sits down with Dr Lawrence Xu-Nan — Green Party MP, Egyptologist, and proud Kiwi-Asian trailblazer — to talk about growing up in Pakuranga, navigating identity, and breaking stereotypes in Aotearoa’s political and cultural landscape.They reflect on representation, mental health, and why being your authentic self still matters — from gaming memories and manga to neurodiversity and the power of visibility.🎧 Listen if you’ve ever wondered what it means to grow up Asian in New Zealand — and how our stories can shape a more inclusive future.Hosted by Romy Lee · Produced by Alex Kim · Banana Lab Podcast (Season 1 Episode 2)