A Conversation with Professor Theodore Chao and Jenessa Joffe, Two Co-Authors of Auntie Kristina's Guide to Asian American Activism
Asian American History 101 · Apr 13, 2026 · 37:22
Asian American History 101 · Apr 13, 2026 · 37:22
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Welcome to Season 6, Episode 15! Today our guests are two of the co-authors of the very cool new book Auntie Kristina's Guide to Asian American Activism… Jenessa Joffe and Professor Theodore Chao.
Jenessa Joffe is a Los Angeles-based writer, director, producer, and mother who is passionate about creating social change through comedic, kid-focused content. Theodore Chao is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Elementary and Bilingual Education at California State University, Fullerton. His research centers on Digital Mathematics Storytelling to amplify counter-narratives that challenge harmful stereotypes in mathematics education.
Auntie Kristina's Guide to Asian American Activism is an entertaining and informative book designed for kids from approximately aged 10-14. It's witty and inspiring, and discusses the Asian American community, past and present; explores allyship with other communities of color; finds a place in national and global movements; and turns inward so young readers can practice love and self-care.
In our conversation, Jenessa and Theodore share a little about how the book came to be, some of the challenges and benefits to putting Auntie Kristina in print, the intentionality in designing activities, and more. The book will release on April 14, but if some outlets are already shipping it! To learn more about Auntie Kristina's Guide to Asian American Activism, Theodore, Jenessa, or the other two authors Kristina Wong and Anna Michelle Wang, we've listed their details below:
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Episodes: Asian American History 101
