In the Podlight: Michelle Sugihara - Moving the Needle with CAPE

Summary: In this episode of In the Podlight, Michelle Sugihara, the executive director of the Coalition of Asian Pacific’s in Entertainment (CAPE) discusses CAPE's mission to increase representation and visibility for Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders in the entertainment industry. Michelle shares insights on the importance of coalition building, the impact of representation in media, and the challenges faced by underrepresented groups in a contracting industry. The conversation also touches on the future of storytelling, the significance of mentorship, and advice for young artists navigating their careers in a diverse yet challenging landscape.

Takeaways

• CAPE has been advocating for Asian Pacific Islander representation since 1991.
• Representation begins on the page, which is why CAPE focuses on writers.
• The entertainment industry is cyclical, with shifts in opportunities for diverse voices.
• Coalition building is essential for amplifying underrepresented stories.
• The conversation around representation is becoming more nuanced and intersectional.
• Failure is a necessary part of creativity and risk-taking.
• CAPE is a resource for both high-level executives and entry-level professionals.
• Community is crucial for marginalized artists to uplift each other.
• The industry is currently facing contraction, affecting opportunities for diverse voices.
• Young artists should not compromise their identity and should build their networks.
• The journey of an actor requires persistence and adaptability.
• Community support is vital for artists to flourish.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to CAPE and Michelle Sugihara
02:15 CAPE's Mission and Programs
04:50 Impact of Representation in Media
08:55 Coalition Building and Community Engagement
12:40 Future Challenges and Opportunities for CAPE
15:44 Navigating Industry Changes and Representation
19:54 Advice for Young Artists and Marginalized Voices
22:12 Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations

Connect with Michelle on Instagram
Connect with CAPE on Instagram
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Connect with Grant on Instagram
Connect with In The Podlight on the Website

Check out CAPE on their website 

The Team:
Caroline Liem – Producer & Host
Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host
Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor
David Margolin Lawson  - Composer
Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration
The Lee Agency - Press Agent
Brandon Mills - Cover Art Photo Credit  

In the Podlight is produced in collaboration with Pace University – Sands
The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed by the guests, hosts, and producers of this podcasts do not necessarily refle

Since 1906, Pace University has been transforming the lives of its diverse students—academically, professionally, and socioeconomically. With campuses in New York City and Westchester County, New York, Pace offers bachelor, master, and doctoral degree programs to 13,600 students in its College of Health Professions, Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, Elisabeth Haub School of Law, Lubin School of Business, School of Education, Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems and, most recently, the Sands