If the best childhood gift you ever received was a typewriter to write mystery stories, perhaps it's no surprise when you end up writing a novel that inspires a hit TV show. In this episode, host Jennifer Thibodaux sits down with Helen Wan – lawyer, author, and DEI consultant.
Jennifer and Helen chat about Helen's debut novel, The Partner Track, which follows a young, Chinese-American woman navigating life as a senior associate at a large law firm in New York City. Helen explains how her experiences in Big Law inspired her book and outlines the casual racism she encountered from certain publishers. Fast-forward, and the story has been a hit in print and on the small screen – even resonating with fans that Helen wasn't expecting.
Jennifer and Helen explore the story's themes – being women of color in the profession, assimilation versus authenticity, defining success, and staying curious. Plus, we get to hear how writing this book has changed Helen's life and what she's doing now.
Helen also shares the advice that motivated her to transform her "subway scribblings" about her workday into a novel. And, after listening to this episode, you'll be inspired to follow your passion too. Hint: get started!
Find out more at tr.com/TheHearing