Banana Lab

In this episode of Banana Lab, Romy Lee sits down with Dr Lawrence Xu-Nan — Green Party MP, Egyptologist, and proud Kiwi-Asian trailblazer — to talk about growing up in Pakuranga, navigating identity, and breaking stereotypes in Aotearoa’s political and cultural landscape.
They reflect on representation, mental health, and why being your authentic self still matters — from gaming memories and manga to neurodiversity and the power of visibility.
🎧 Listen if you’ve ever wondered what it means to grow up Asian in New Zealand — and how our stories can shape a more inclusive future.
Hosted by Romy Lee · Produced by Alex Kim · Banana Lab Podcast (Season 1 Episode 2)

What is Banana Lab?

🎙️ 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.