About this episode

Monica Hyang-sil Chang shares her journey of rebuilding her identity after immigrating to Canada and then California, discussing the challenges of loneliness and cultural adjustment.

Moving to a new country is an emotional, psychological, and cultural upheaval. In this episode, Korean‑Canadian entrepreneur Monica Hyang-sil Chang shares her powerful story of rebuilding her identity after immigrating from Korea, to Toronto, Canada, to Marin County in California. This episode is for anyone searching for belonging, rebuilding identity after migration, or learning how to stay grounded while living far from home. Monica opens up about the pressure many Asian women feel to 'fit the box,' the stereotypes she pushed against, and what it meant to become one of the only Korean women running a food business in her region. We explore the real challenges of loneliness, homesickness, culture shock, and the mental health impact of starting over in a new country — experiences familiar to immigrants, expats, and anyone navigating life abroad. Visit San Koran cafe If this resonates leave a 5‑star review. I really helps us know how to support you.

People in this episode

Guest: Monica Hyang-sil Chang

Topics covered

• immigration
• identity
• mental health
• cultural challenges
• belonging
• entrepreneurship

Keywords

• immigration
• identity
• Asian women
• food business
• homesickness
• culture shock
• mental health

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: San Koran cafe

Places: Korea, Toronto, Canada, Marin County, California

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