John Wang is a dynamic speaker, entrepreneur, and the founder of Big Asian Energy, a movement dedicated to empowering Asian professionals to embrace confidence, leadership, and cultural pride. With a background in marketing, storytelling, and personal development, John has helped countless individuals break past societal and cultural barriers to achieve personal and professional success. His engaging and insightful keynotes inspire audiences to celebrate their identity while fostering a mindset of resilience and empowerment.

Recommended Keynotes:

1) Big Asian Energy : Breaking Barriers to Leadership and Success

This engaging and relatable talk features storytelling and hands-on techniques that help audiences identify the myths that often face Asian employees which hold them back from leadership-- and how to break through the barriers.

2) From Invisible to Unstoppable : How to Get Recognized for Your Brilliance

How many hidden overachievers—especially women and minorities—go unrecognized at work, afraid to speak up and without advocates? In this keynote, John Wang shares research on why top talent is overlooked and leaving, and provides actionable strategies to help them step into leadership with confidence and self-advocacy.

Why John Wang is a Great Fit for Respawn Entertainment:

• Champion of Authenticity and Representation – John’s mission with Big Asian Energy aligns with Respawn Entertainment’s commitment to diverse storytelling and representation in the gaming industry. His insights help AAPI professionals embrace their identity, just as Respawn strives to create narratives that empower underrepresented voices.
• Expert in Overcoming Cultural Barriers – The gaming industry, like many creative fields, presents unique challenges for AAPI professionals. John’s expertise in breaking stereotypes and advocating for workplace confidence will resonate with Respawn’s team members working to carve their own path.
• Engaging and Thought-Provoking Speaker – John blends humor, storytelling, and actionable takeaways, making his sessions highly engaging while delivering meaningful insights—similar to how Respawn’s games balance entertainment with impactful storytelling.
• Mental Wellness and Resilience Advocate – With May also marking Mental Health Awareness Month, John’s message of self-confidence, overcoming imposter syndrome, and breaking through cultural stigmas ties seamlessly into Respawn’s mission to foster a supportive and inclusive work environment.
• Corporate & Industry-Relevant Experience – John has spoken at major companies and understands how to engage high-performing, creative teams. His ability to connect with corporate and ERG audiences ensures his talk will leave a lasting impact on Respawn’s employees.
• Empowering Future Leaders in Gaming – As Respawn continues to push innovation, it’s essential to foster leadership and confidence among AAPI employees. John’s frameworks for career growth, communication, and leadership presence will empower attendees to thrive within the company.
  

"Loved his energy and the “ACE” framework...something that I can still remember. Loved the follow up resource (ACE assessment). John did an amazing job with the presentation."- Christina Sheane, Chair Of Asian Colleagues Initiative, Mio Mckinsey

"His stage presence, his confidence, his ability to break down big and complex and challenging and sensitive topics into things that are easily understandable and digestible is such a profound skill."- Toper Ravadilla, Community Organizer,  Mighty Networks

Angela Chee is a former TV news anchor, media and communication coach, and keynote speaker dedicated to helping individuals step into their power, amplify their voice, and lead with confidence. As the founder of The Empowered Voice, Angela’s work focuses on empowering professionals—especially those from underrepresented backgrounds—to break through barriers, embrace their unique identity, and thrive in their careers. Her insights into leadership, visibility, and personal growth make her a compelling choice for Respawn Entertainment’s AAPI Heritage Month & Mental Health Awareness Event.

Recommended Keynote:

Own Your Only™: Own Your Opportunities, Redefine Success and Thrive in Any Environment

In this uplifting and energizing keynote, media and communication coach Angela Chee shows your team how to embrace their individuality and transform feelings of being the “only” one in the room into a powerful advantage. Drawing on her pioneering media career, compelling real-world examples, and stories from trailblazing leaders, she shares “The Power Of The Only” principles and offers practical science-based tools and steps to help people own their opportunities, speak up with confidence, connect more authentically, and step into their leadership.

Through reflective exercises, authentic storytelling, and strategies grounded in psychology and neuroscience, participants will leave inspired to claim their voice and realize that by owning who they are, they unlock new levels of collaboration, innovation, and impact. This keynote empowers teams to thrive together, igniting a deeper sense of purpose and creating lasting impact both within your organization and beyond.

Angela’s The Power of The Only™ Principles help organizations discover new possibilities, inspire clear and confident action, transform unique perspectives into competitive advantages and create authentic connections that last. Ultimately, her teachings are the keys that will take you from merely surviving to successfully thriving.

Key Outcomes for Your Audience:

• Learn why every unique perspective is vital and how tapping into our “Only” moments promotes forward-thinking leadership.
• Discover how authentic communication—rooted in confidence and clarity—can strengthen relationships and energize team dynamics.
• Uncover simple shifts that transform self-doubt into self-belief, fostering a culture of encouragement and personal leadership at every level.
• Break through communication barriers to create an environment where all voices are heard, respected, and empowered to contribute.
• Inspire teams to move from “surviving” to “thriving,” embracing growth, curiosity, and a drive to shape a more innovative future.

Angela’s relatable style and interactive approach spark genuine excitement and meaningful insights. By celebrating and elevating every individual’s voice, your organization fosters deeper trust, collaboration, and a stronger sense of belonging. Participants leave feeling equipped and motivated to continue growing—both personally and as a unified team—well beyond the keynote.

Bring your organization together under a shared vision of empowerment. When people dare to Own your Only™, everyone thrives.

Why Angela Chee is a Great Fit for Respawn Entertainment

• Champion of AAPI Empowerment – Angela’s expertise in breaking barriers and amplifying voices aligns perfectly with Respawn’s mission to foster diversity, inclusion, and representation in gaming and beyond.
• Leader in Confidence and Communication – The gaming industry thrives on collaboration, innovation, and bold storytelling—Angela’s message equips AAPI professionals with the skills to speak up, lead, and influencein high-performance environments.
• Mental Wellness and Personal Growth Advocate – Her work touches on overcoming self-doubt, managing imposter syndrome, and building resilience, making her an ideal voice for Mental Health Awareness Month.
• Engaging, Inspirational, and Actionable – Angela’s dynamic speaking style blends storytelling, humor, and practical strategies, ensuring an impactful experience for attendees.
• Industry-Relevant Experience – As a former media professional, Angela understands the fast-paced, high-pressure environments of creative industries, making her message especially relevant to Respawn’s teams.
  

“Angela is an exceptional speaker.  Her personality and energy are great. Her professionalism in her preparation and presenting was thoughtful and audience specific.  We had a difficult group to please and had extremely positive feedback about her keynote and session.  She was a motivational kick off for the rest of the day.  Our audience not only enjoyed her story, but she opened everyone up to have more meaningful and connecting conversations. We look forward to seeing her again soon!” – Kim Lanham, “Break The Glass", Executive Women’s Summit

Rashmi Airan is an internationally recognized speaker, consultant, and ethics expert who shares powerful lessons on integrity, leadership, and resilience. As a first-generation Indian-American, she brings a unique perspective on cultural identity, decision-making, and the importance of mental wellness in professional settings. Rashmi’s journey—from corporate success to overcoming personal and professional adversity—offers invaluable insights on accountability, ethical leadership, and personal growth. Her engaging and deeply personal keynotes inspire audiences to navigate challenges with courage, authenticity, and integrity.

Recommended Keynote:

Silent No More: Remaking Mental Health in Leadership

In corporate America, where mental health often remains hidden, Rashmi Airan's journey from finance professional to federal prison sheds powerful light on this critical issue. Her crusade is deeply personal, stemming from her sister's decades-long battle with mental illness and the tragic loss she and her family endured. Her daughter's ongoing struggles with anxiety, depression, and OCD further fuel her mission.

Inspired by their pain, Rashmi's mother co-founded the Key Clubhouse of South Florida, offering tangible support, including housing, to those facing mental health challenges. Drawing from this family history and her own incarceration experience, Rashmi argues that mental illness doesn't discriminate, affecting CEOs and entry-level employees alike in today's high-pressure business world.

Through poignant storytelling and her groundbreaking RISE process™, she reframes mental health as a leadership opportunity. Rashmi shows how creating a mentally healthy work culture isn't just humane—it's a business imperative. She demonstrates how conditions like anxiety often come with unique strengths such as attention to detail and empathy, especially relevant as younger generations enter the workforce.

By booking her keynote, you're not only investing in leadership development but also joining a mission to ensure no one suffers in silence, from the boardroom to the mailroom. Be part of making mental wellness the heart of 21st-century leadership.

OUTCOMES

• Leaders will learn to destigmatize mental health, viewing it not as a weakness but as a universal human experience.
• Attendees will gain Rashmi's RISE Process™, a practical framework to proactively support workplace mental health.
• Learn to create a mentally healthy work culture that attracts and retains diverse talent, especially from younger generations.
• Leaders will transform personal mental health experiences into powerful tools for authentic leadership.

Why Rashmi Airan is a Great Fit for Respawn Entertainment

• Champion of Ethical Leadership and Integrity – Rashmi’s insights into decision-making, leadership, and accountability align with Respawn’s commitment to fostering a culture of transparency, trust, and responsibility.
• Mental Wellness and Resilience Advocate – Her deeply personal journey resonates with Mental Health Awareness Month, providing employees with strategies to overcome setbacks, embrace vulnerability, and prioritize self-care.
• Engaging Storyteller with a Powerful Message – Rashmi’s ability to connect personal narratives with broader leadership and mental health themes ensures an inspiring and impactful session.
• Understanding of Cultural Pressures and Identity – As a first-generation Indian-American professional, Rashmi’s message aligns with AAPI Heritage Month, addressing the unique challenges and expectations that many AAPI professionals face.
• Industry-Relevant Lessons on Accountability and Leadership – In the fast-paced world of gaming and entertainment, ethical leadership and resilience are key to sustaining long-term success. Rashmi’s frameworks will empower teams to make thoughtful decisions and lead with integrity.

“Rashmi’s story illustrates the power of humility and transformation. Rashmi is an energy giver - whether live or virtual. She reminds us that we are all humans and fallible. I would recommend Rashmi, she is one the best speakers I have ever worked with and I will work with her again!” - Damien Atkins, Former General Counsel, Hershey’s Inc.

“The most mind capturing talk ever! 100% focused and visually present. Personable and relatable” - Roshni Kadhiwala, CEO/Owner JLM Hotel Group, Asian American Hotel Owners Association

Anthony McLean is a dynamic keynote speaker, mental health advocate, and expert in culture and belonging, known for his high-energy, engaging presentations. With a background in performance and public speaking, Anthony delivers insightful and practical talks that inspire professionals to cultivate resilience, foster inclusive workplaces, and prioritize mental well-being. His ability to blend research, storytelling, and humor makes his keynotes both impactful and memorable.

Recommended Keynotes:

1) Fire Up Your Mental Health!

How can we regain our enthusiasm, recapture our joy, and get the pep back in our step at work and at home? Mental health isn’t just about managing stress—it’s about sustaining energy, clear thinking, and resilience in the face of challenges. In this dynamic, high-energy keynote, Anthony McLean brings humor, insight, and practical tools to help audiences recharge, refocus, and find more joy in their daily lives. Whether kicking off a conference or wrapping up an event, this lively session will leave attendees feeling motivated, uplifted, and ready to take action.

Learning Outcomes:

• Discover healthy coping strategies to manage stress and enhance resilience.
• Understand the vital role of exercise, sleep, hydration, and nutrition in overall wellness.
• Develop a supportive mental health routine to stay energized, focused, and recharged.

2) Culture Wellness and Belonging: The Pillars of Workplace Belonging

Imagine a workplace where everyone feels valued and supported, where diversity and mental wellness are not just initiatives but integral parts of the culture. Join Anthony McLean as he delves into the foundational element that bridges these two vital areas: workplace culture. Discover why a culture that values inclusion is essential for leveraging diversity, and how collective wellness habits can significantly improve workplace performance. Anthony will share practical strategies for fostering an inclusive and supportive environment, helping organizations create workplaces where everyone can thrive. Through engaging stories and actionable insights, this keynote will equip you with the tools to build a healthier, more inclusive workplace culture.

Learning Outcomes

• Discover actionable insights for both personal self-care and collective wellness habits.
• Learn how to approach mental health and diversity through the lens of empathy.
• Understand why self-awareness is critical for successful wellness and inclusion initiatives.

Why Anthony McLean is a Great Fit for Respawn Entertainment

• Mental Health Advocate with Actionable Insights – Anthony’s expertise aligns with Mental Health Awareness Month, providing strategies for resilience and well-being in a fast-paced industry like gaming.
• Champion of Culture and Belonging – As Respawn strives to foster inclusive storytelling and work environments, Anthony’s message will resonate deeply with employees across all departments.
• Engaging and Energetic Speaker – His charismatic delivery and interactive style ensure an uplifting and impactful experience for all attendees.
• Industry-Relevant Perspective – In the gaming and entertainment industries, collaboration, innovation, and inclusion are critical—Anthony’s frameworks help teams foster belonging, navigate challenges, and thrive.
• Practical Strategies for High-Performance Teams – Respawn’s teams operate in a high-pressure creative environment; Anthony provides tools for maintaining motivation, overcoming burnout, and staying engaged.

“Anthony’s workshops have had a significant impact on our school. He was equally impactful while working with parents from our community. I would wholeheartedly welcome him back anytime.” - Greg Farrell, Principal, York Region District School Board

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Bianca Mabute-Louie is an acclaimed educator, speaker, and racial justice advocate dedicated to addressing anti-Asian racism, systemic oppression, and the power of storytelling in shaping cultural identity. As a researcher and expert in Asian American history, Bianca brings a unique and critical lens to discussions on identity, resilience, and the intersectionality of race and mental health. Her keynotes inspire audiences to explore their own narratives, challenge stereotypes, and cultivate inclusive communities.

UNASSIMILABLE by Bianca Mabute-Louie is a bold and deeply personal exploration of Asian Americans who reject assimilation and instead create their own spaces of belonging.

Part manifesto, part memoir, this book challenges the traditional idea that success means blending into mainstream American society. Mabute-Louie, a scholar and activist, unpacks the history of Asian American identity, from the 19th century to today, revealing how race, class, and citizenship shape their experiences.

She begins with the San Gabriel Valley, the first Asian-majority suburb in the U.S., where immigrants thrive by building a community on their own terms rather than conforming to whiteness. She then examines predominantly white institutions, the fight for ethnic studies, and the contradictions of immigrant churches—both places of refuge and tools of colonial influence.

In the end, she calls for a rethinking of the term “Asian American,” proposing a new identity rooted in solidarity, care, and resistance. UNASSIMILABLE is a groundbreaking book that challenges readers to reconsider what it truly means to belong.

Why Bianca Mabute-Louie is a Great Fit for Respawn Entertainment

• Deep Expertise in AAPI History and Advocacy – Bianca’s research and advocacy work align with Respawn’s commitment to fostering meaningful representation and addressing complex social issues in gaming and beyond.
• Mental Health and Racial Trauma Awareness – Her insights into healing from racial trauma and navigating identity struggles will resonate with employees seeking strategies for personal and professional resilience.
• Empowering and Actionable Takeaways – Bianca’s talks not only educate and inspire but also provide tangible steps for allyship, self-advocacy, and building inclusive spaces.
• Relatable and Engaging Speaker – Bianca’s storytelling-based approach creates a personal and impactful experience that aligns with Respawn’s values of immersive, thought-provoking narratives.
• Industry-Relevant Perspective – The gaming industry plays a crucial role in shaping cultural narratives. Bianca’s expertise will help Respawn’s team explore how storytelling can drive equity and inclusion both in the workplace and in the games they create.

Recommended Format for Event: Fireside Chat

Here are suggested questions for the moderated conversation:

General:

• What inspired you to write Unassimilable? Was there a particular moment or experience that made you feel this book needed to exist?
• Could you explain the title, Unassimilable? What does it signify to you, and what do you hope it signifies to readers?
• How do you define being unassimilable in the American context, and why is this concept significant for Asian American communities?
• You open Unassimilable with rich anecdotes and stories from growing up San Gabriel Valley, the first Asian ethnoburb in the nation. What was it like to grow up in a majority Asian space, and how did it shape your understanding of assimilation and influence your approach to this book?

Race and Solidarity

• In Unassimilable, you share about your experiences advocating for Asian American Studies in the state of Texas where political attacks on DEI, CRT, and diverse books have taken center stage. As we witness such attacks escalate across the nation, how does Unassimilable speak to this moment and provide a way forward?
• In Unassimilable, you delve into the racial experiences of Asian Americans in the Black/White racial landscape, arguing that Asian Americans are simultaneously “racially nowhere and everywhere." Can you explain? ‍
• Unassimilable addresses solidarity across communities of color. What are some of the most critical aspects of solidarity for Asian Americans? What are some of the most critical aspects of solidarity with Asian Americans?
• How does Unassimilable chart a path forward for solidarity across racial groups?

Closing:

• Writing about identity and race can be a deeply personal and often challenging experience. What was the most difficult part of writing Unassimilable?
• How has your community responded to Unassimilable so far, especially those with similar backgrounds or experiences?
• What do you hope young Asian Americans and future generations take away from your work? How do you hope it shapes their perspective on identity and belonging?

“Bianca is the voice that Texas needs. She hosted a workshop for our organization discussing Anti-Asian Violence and Racial Justice, and everyone LOVED it. She was an eloquent and knowledgeable speaker. Her presentation was comprehensive, insightful, and relatable. Bianca is a clear expert in this area.” - Catharine Y., Diversity & Inclusion, Asian American Bar Association of Houston

Jessica Chen is an Emmy Award-winning journalist, CEO of Soulcast Media, and a globally recognized expert in business communication and executive presence. Through her work, she has helped professionals from Fortune 500 companies develop confidence, leadership presence, and impactful communication skills. As a first-generation Asian-American, Jessica understands the challenges that AAPI professionals face in the workplace, including cultural barriers, self-doubt, and the struggle to be heard. Her dynamic keynotes provide practical tools for effective leadership, assertive communication, and career growth—making her an excellent fit for Respawn Entertainment’s AAPI Heritage Month & Mental Health Awareness Event.

Recommended Keynotes:

Jessica has a number of keynotes that we can recommended, depending on your event goals. Highlighting two of them here:

1) Highlight Your Genius: Advocating for Yourself and Your Ideas

In a fast-paced world, working hard is expected. However, what’s less talked about is the need to highlight your genius and advocate for yourself and your ideas. The result? Better collaboration, ideas, and business outcomes. In this session, Jessica will inspire the audience to build the confidence to advocate for their ideas using the ACCT Framework and how to showcase their wins.

2) Cross-Cultural Dynamics in a Global Workplace

In this inspiring talk, Jessica will take the audience on a journey so they can adopt a global mindset for success. Touching on building cultural awareness to communicating across nationalities and generations, this session will equipped audience members so they’ll know what to consider, what to say, and how to say it with tact.

Why Jessica Chen is a Great Fit for Respawn Entertainment

• Expert in Leadership and Communication – Jessica’s frameworks for confidence, executive presence, and assertive communication align with Respawn’s goal of fostering a culture of empowered, innovative professionals.
• AAPI Representation and Cultural Awareness – As a first-generation Asian-American leader, Jessica’s story of overcoming cultural and professional barriers will resonate deeply during AAPI Heritage Month.
• Mental Wellness and Self-Confidence Advocate – Her insights on overcoming self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and cultural conditioning provide practical takeaways that support Mental Health Awareness Month.
• Engaging, Practical, and Actionable Speaker – Jessica’s dynamic speaking style blends storytelling, real-world strategies, and interactive elements to create a compelling and memorable experience.
• Corporate and Creative Industry Expertise – Having worked with Fortune 500 companies, Jessica understands high-performance environments like gaming and entertainment, making her advice relevant for Respawn’s teams.

"Jessica is a dynamic speaker who is both inspirational and educational. She is an expert in communication and she has a profound understanding of business solutions. Jessica is amazing and captivated our audience. They walked away with actionable strategies to succeed in the workplace!" - Mattel

“Jessica’s talk was so relatable that I found myself nodding along in agreement as she shared her personal struggles and triumphs. She made me realize that advocating for myself in the workplace is not just a necessary skill, but also an act of self-care and self-respect. Her passion and expertise are truly remarkable, and I can say with certainty that her talk was one of the best I have ever attended.” - Sage

“Jessica facilitated her Advocating for Yourself workshop and we received amazing feedback from ourattendees! Not only did this session offer an opportunity for our community to share their personal experiences in a safe space, but we all also walked away with a tangible framework with actionable steps to build more confidence and navigate more challenging conversations.” - GumGum

D’Lo is a Tamil Sri Lankan-American actor, writer, comedian, and speaker whose work explores the intersections of race, gender, identity, and mental health. As a groundbreaking artist and activist, D’Lo’s performances and keynotes are infused with humor, personal storytelling, and social commentary, making complex topics accessible and engaging. With a career spanning TV, film, theater, and advocacy, D’Lo brings a unique and powerful perspective on representation, resilience, and belonging. His ability to blend entertainment with education makes him an ideal speaker for Respawn Entertainment’s AAPI Heritage Month & Mental Health Awareness Event.

Recommended Presentation:

Stand-Up and Storytelling with D'Lo

Using stand-up and storytelling, D’Lo shares his observations and recollections of being a queer boy/stud/transmasculine person who grew up in a strict immigrant family, and his journey as a young queer person into queer adulthood. On his route to learning how to exist unapologetically, he is also confronted with the question of what it means to embody a beautiful masculinity that upholds his feminist politics.

Why D’Lo is a Great Fit for Respawn Entertainment

• Champion of Authentic Representation – As Respawn continues to push for diverse and authentic storytelling in gaming, D’Lo’s work in shifting narratives around AAPI and LGBTQ+ identities aligns with this mission.
• Mental Health & Resilience Advocate – His story of overcoming adversity and using comedy as a tool for mental health awareness and healing will provide a meaningful and uplifting message for Mental Health Awareness Month.
• Engaging, Funny, and Thought-Provoking Speaker – D’Lo’s unique blend of humor, storytelling, and social commentary creates an entertaining and educational experience that resonates with diverse audiences.
• Gaming & Creative Industry Relevance – As an artist who has worked in TV, film, and theater, D’Lo understands the challenges and opportunities in creative fields, making his insights valuable to Respawn’s teams.
• Empowering AAPI and LGBTQ+ Voices – His work aligns with Respawn’s values of fostering inclusion, belonging, and representation, ensuring that all employees feel seen, heard, and valued.