Episode 232
18/08/2025

Releasing A Fetish and Awakening Your Power

In this episode, I sit down with author and creator Kaila Yu to explore what it takes to move from external validation to authentic self worth. We talk about the harm of fetishization, the healing power of sobriety and community, Internal Family Systems therapy, and simple practices like meditation and gratitude that actually shift your biology and your story. If you have ever felt invisible or not enough, this one is for you.

"I had no self love at 20. I have an abundance now, and I am still growing it." - Kaila Yu

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Content advisory: mentions of addiction and sexual assault.

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References: IFS evidence and randomized trials, meditation and gratitude research, and reporting on anti Asian violence. Taylor & Francis Online ifstherapy.org SpringerLink JAMA Network PBS

Timestamps

00:00

Opening and UCSD connection

03:39

Five to Thrive: self love, rest, and power

06:13

Why Kaila wrote Fetishized and the TikTok pivot

08:54

Hollywood stereotypes and narrow roles for Asian women

12:23

Sobriety and the start of real inner work

14:28

Depression, chaos, and chasing validation

15:14

Parents, achievement, and the missing words of affirmation

17:26

What 12 step work opens up

23:07

First steps that actually help

27:02

Why fetishization is not harmless

28:12

Book details and where to find Kaila

28:44

Best medicine

"You are as sick as your secrets. Say them in a safe space so they stop running your life." - Kaila Yu

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