Banana Lab
Romy Lee, Alex Kim🎙️ Banana Lab is where Kiwi-Asians unpack identity, mental health, and life’s weird in-betweens. Hosted by Romy Lee, a mental health professional & advocate, this podcast blends real talk, humor, and deep convos with guests who have lived it. 🍌 🔊 Listen for unfiltered stories, cultural struggles, and conversations that hit home.
| Publishes | Twice monthly | Episodes | 11 | Founded | 8 months ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | Health & FitnessSociety & CultureMental Health | |||
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Latest Episodes
In this episode of Banana Lab, we are joined by Sophie Kim.
Sophie shares her experience working in hospitality for over a decade, and the decision to transition into a career in marketing.
We discuss burnout, work-life balance, and the challenges ... more
In this episode of Banana Lab, Romy Lee steps into the guest seat to share her personal story.
Romy reflects on growing up as a Korean New Zealander, navigating identity, sexuality, and significant mental health challenges from a young age.
She sha... more
In this episode of Banana Lab, we speak with Sophie Miya-Smith, a photographer and creative based in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Sophie shares her experience growing up half Japanese and half Pākehā, and the challenges of navigating identity between cultu... more
In this episode of Banana Lab, we speak with Dr Janet Lee, an emergency physician working in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Janet shares her experience growing up as a 1.5 generation Korean New Zealander and how that shaped her sense of identity and belongin... more
In this episode, Lola shares what it’s like growing up adopted by Pākehā parents in Aotearoa, and the cultural tension of not feeling fully white or fully Asian.
We explore adoption, identity, assimilation, and the emotional impact of being perceive... more
In this episode of Banana Lab, we’re joined by Nancy Lu, Member of Parliament, finance leader, and migrant New Zealander.
Nancy reflects on arriving in Aotearoa as a child with only a few English words, learning to adapt to a new culture, and discov... more
In this episode of Banana Lab, Romy sits down with Maria Mo — classical pianist and broadcaster for RNZ Concert.
Maria shares her path into music (later than most people expect), how she’s navigated identity as a 1.5 generation Korean in Aotearoa, a... more
In this episode, Romy interviews Alex Kim — producer, creative, and the other half of the Banana Lab Podcast.
Alex shares his journey growing up Asian in Aotearoa, navigating identity and expectations, and discovering creativity as both refuge and p... more
Key Facts
Host
Chart Rankings
How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.
Apple Podcasts | #116 |  New Zealand/Society & Culture |
Top Society & Culture Podcasts
Talking Points
Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.
Audience Metrics
Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Banana Lab
What is Banana Lab about and what kind of topics does it cover?
Banana Lab centers on identity, mental health, and the Asian New Zealander experience, balancing candid storytelling with warmth and humor. Across episodes, listeners hear from guests navigating cultural integration, representation, and personal growth—covering topics from politics and law to education, neurodiversity, and creative work. The show often foregrounds lived experience within diaspora communities, exploring both challenges and strengths, making it a compelling listen for professionals and individuals interested in culture, wellbeing, and inclusive narratives. Expect thoughtful conversations that blend personal anecdotes with broader social context, plus a sense of community and practical takeaways for navigating identity in a mo... more
Where can I find podcast stats for Banana Lab?
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How many listeners does Banana Lab get?
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What are the audience demographics for Banana Lab?
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How many subscribers and views does Banana Lab have?
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How many episodes of Banana Lab are there?
Banana Lab launched 8 months ago and published 11 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
How do I contact Banana Lab?
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