Picture this: You’re sitting around a warm kitchen table in China, where the rich aroma of fresh dumplings fills the air, and your grandmother's hands, weathered with years of tradition, expertly fold the dough. The room buzzes with soft laughter, and each dumpling she creates is a piece of history, wrapped in dough and steeped in memory.

In this episode, I sit down with Mingduo, a recent NC State graduate originally from China and shaped by his experiences in Hong Kong. Mingduo shares how his cultural background, combined with his love for creative writing, has influenced his storytelling. His short story "Dumplings", published in NC State’s literary magazine, beautifully captures the intersection of family, identity, and cultural heritage.

We also discuss Mingduo’s journey as an international student, navigating the balance between pursuing a career in literature and the practicality of life ahead, as well as his admiration for role models like Andy Lau. Mingduo’s path toward library science shows how creative passion can evolve into a grounded, meaningful career.

If you’ve ever found yourself questioning whether you should pursue a career in creative writing, or if you’ve been torn between following your passion or taking a more traditional path, this episode is for you. Mingduo's journey reminds us that passion and practicality can coexist, and the pursuit of creativity is never a waste. Whether you're traveling, taking a quiet moment, or simply looking for inspiration, I hope this episode encourages you to chase what sets your soul on fire, no matter where that journey takes you.