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Cultural critic & CNN contributor

Jeff Yang

Renowned cultural expert Jeff Yang brings a witty, unique perspective to conversations on identity, media, and pop culture. A bestselling author and CNN contributor specializing in Asian American representation, Jeff blends sharp cultural insight with storytelling that resonates across diverse audiences. Former Wall Street Journal columnist and senior advisor at Pop Culture Collaborative.

Trusted by Pop Culture Collaborative, Institute for the Future, sparks & honey, The Futures Company, Iconoculture

Jeff Yang, Speaker | Asian American Author And Journalist
Jeff Yang

Jeff Yang

Los Angeles, United States

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Los Angeles, United States

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Jeff Yang's biography

At a glance

  • Author and journalist specializing in Asian American pop culture
  • Contributor to CNN, NPR, The Wall Street Journal
  • Senior Advisor for Narrative and Digital Intelligence for the Pop Culture Collaborative
Jeff Yang is a bestselling author and cultural observer who has documented Asian American voices and identity for over three decades. His work bridges journalism, strategy, and pop culture to reveal how communities shape and are shaped by media.   Jeff founded A. Magazine: Inside Asian America and has written for The Wall Street Journal, San Francisco Chronicle, and Village Voice. He now contributes regularly to CNN and appears on NPR programs, including Pop Culture Happy Hour and Code Switch. His books include Jackie Chan's memoir, I Am Jackie Chan, the instant New York Times bestseller RISE: A Pop History of Asian America, and The Golden Screen: The Movies That Made Asian America. As Senior Advisor for Narrative and Digital Intelligence at the Pop Culture Collaborative, Jeff helps organizations understand how cultural narratives drive social change. He previously led the Digital Intelligence Lab at the Institute for the Future and held senior strategy roles at sparks & honey, The Futures Company, and Iconoculture, where he tracked global culture shifts. His expertise helps businesses, media organizations, and nonprofits recognize emerging cultural patterns and connect authentically with diverse audiences. Audiences leave Jeff's presentations with a practical understanding of cultural convergence, the social impact of technology, and the shifting nature of identity on and offline. His talks combine historical context with real-time cultural analysis, making global culture changes accessible and actionable. Book Jeff to gain a clearer understanding of how cultural forces are reshaping business, media, and society today.

Jeff's showreel and videos

Topics, sessions and talks

In Conversation With Jeff Yang
Through his talks, Jeff Yang discusses the intersection of technology, media, and entertainment strategy, emphasizing niche marketing and content development. He explores the influence of pop culture and fandom, particularly in comics and graphic novels, while addressing Asian and Asian American arts, entertainment, and culture. Attendees gain insights into Asian American politics and identity, global marketing trends, and the implications of multiculturalism, race, and globalization. Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of these dynamic fields.

Why we recommend booking Jeff

Jeff's three decades documenting Asian American identity and his senior advisory work on cultural narratives give him deep credibility when it comes to helping organisations understand the evolution of Asian American representation, pop culture's impact on social change, and how narratives influence business, branding, and politics.

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Trusted by Pop Culture Collaborative, Institute for the Future, sparks & honey, The Futures Company, Iconoculture

Featured Projects

The Golden Screen: The Movies That Made Asian America
Rise: A Pop History of Asian America from the Nineties to Now
Secret Identities: The Asian American Superhero Anthology

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Jeff Yang for my next event?
Email jeff.yang@getapeptalk.com or call PepTalk on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience. As speaker agents, PepTalk can secure Jeff Yang for commercial and corporate events, conference keynotes, leadership talks, celebrity brand endorsements & partnerships, personal appearances, and motivational speaking engagements. We can assist with enquiries about Jeff Yang's speaking fees, availability, and booking process for private business functions, industry conferences, and team events. Please note, for media interviews, autographs, charity appearances, or personal matters, we recommend contacting Jeff Yang directly.
What is Jeff Yang's speaking style like?
Previous bookers say Jeff Yang connects well with audiences and speaks with clarity, confidence, and ease.
What topics does Jeff Yang specialise in?
Email jeff.yang@getapeptalk.com or call PepTalk on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience. As speaker agents, PepTalk can secure Jeff Yang for commercial and corporate events, conference keynotes, leadership talks, celebrity brand endorsements & partnerships, personal appearances, and motivational speaking engagements. We can assist with enquiries about Jeff Yang's speaking fees, availability, and booking process for private business functions, industry conferences, and team events. Please note, for media interviews, autographs, charity appearances, or personal matters, we recommend contacting Jeff Yang directly.
What does 'typical fee range' mean?

Speaker fees vary based on factors like event location, format, and availability. The 'typical fee range' figure gives you a baseline of someone's local, in-person rate sits, and we'll confirm the exact fee when you get in touch.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule a speaker booking?

Life happens! Most speaker bookings can be rescheduled with reasonable notice. Cancellation terms vary by speaker, but PepTalk handles all the details & contracts transparently upfront so there are no surprises. Our team supports you through any changes, making the process as smooth as possible.

Have all the speakers on the website previously worked with PepTalk?

Not necessarily. While the speakers listed on our website may not have worked with PepTalk in the past, they are recognized professionals in the industry and known to engage in similar events and engagements. Alongside direct talent, we work with a wide variety of speaker agents and talent agencies, to ensure we have the best selection of speakers, hosts, comedians and entertainers available.

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When booking a speaker, you'll need your event date, audience details, format, key objectives, and budget. Having these ready makes the process smooth and straightforward. PepTalk's team uses this information to match you with the perfect speaker quickly and efficiently.

Can I request autographs, personal greetings, signed merchandise, or fan mail from the speakers?

Sorry, we do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, or any non-commercial contact with the speakers, comedians or entertainers.

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If you notice something that needs attention or have any queries regarding an expert speaker profile, feel free to email us at experts@getapeptalk.com, and we’ll be happy to assist.

Can I book podcast guests through PepTalk?

Yes. PepTalk books commercial podcast guests every week of the year. A high-profile voice can boost your podcast's reach and deliver ideas to your audience at scale. Fees typically start from £1,200 / $1,500, depending on the expert. Our network includes bestselling authors, industry leaders, and cultural figures who have appeared on leading global podcasts — and many host their own. Whether you want bold insights, candid stories, or deep expertise, we'll help you find the right guest to elevate your show.

How far in advance should I book a motivational speaker?

Book a motivational speaker at least 3–6 months in advance, especially for popular speakers or large events. Top speakers get booked quickly, so earlier is always better. For major conferences or peak seasons, booking 12 months ahead ensures you secure your first choice.

Help, I need a last-minute speaker for my event!

No problem! We often handle last-minute requests and can secure or replace a speaker, comedian, awards or event host quickly — almost anywhere in the world. However, speaker availability might be limited as the event date approaches. Email hello@getapeptalk.com with your requirements.