Ep. 1: Sumi Yu
A conversation about knowing your worth, caring for your whole self, and showing up.
Dear Beautiful Humans,
Today is the launch of The Story Project. The podcast that I have been dreaming about making for many years. An idea that sparked during a tumultuous time, reeling after personal trauma. A project that evolved from countless conversations with brilliant artists that led to healing and the hope that we could make meaningful change by sharing our stories.
There is already so much more I want to do. So much I see and already wish I did differently. But that is part of the creation of this project— being as kind and patient to myself as I am towards others, celebrating what HAS been accomplished without marinating in what is left to do, and trusting that at the very least I have the opportunity to connect with beautiful humans, like you.
I have so much left to learn, so much I still struggle with. But what I know for sure is that through any trial, I am helped through conversation with trusted friends and artists. In the conversations about healing and art and bodies and trauma and movement and overcoming and action and empowerment, I would always say “that was helpful, wish we recorded it.” So here we are, recording it.
My hope for this podcast is that we heal and evolve, individually and collectively. That we voice what’s harmful, and are empowered to make necessary changes. That we respect ourselves, our bodies, and our voices, and create safer, healthier environments, personally and professionally. That we understand the power of our stories, that we receive and offer true support, that we prioritize holistic health.
And, that we use all of this to engage with the world around us.
So let’s all take a collective breath, accept that we doing our best even when it doesn’t seem remotely like enough, and come together in our HUMANITY. Truly together in conversation, community, and change-making. Please enjoy, The Story Project.
xx
Jess
The Story Project
Episode 1 — Sumi Yu
Sumi Yu is a full-time professional actress working on stage and in TV/Film. Currently residing in NYC, she is a proud member of AEA and SAG-AFTRA and has performed at many prestigious theaters including Lincoln Center Theater and New York City Center.
In today’s episode, Sumi discusses how she chose a college program that would support not just her resume but her overall wellbeing, what she loved and what she’d change about her training experiences, and the importance of therapy and other tools to support our professional journeys.
She also expresses how her professional jobs can’t be her measure of success and worth, how we can celebrate who we are and let that be our guide through the industry, and even shares the story of her most embarrassing audition for a Broadway show.