- 18
- Episodes
- Monthly
- Cadence
- 2026
- First episode
About Set The Stage w/ Viv J
Set the Stage is my podcast/series on YouTube where we discuss topics ranging from Asian American experiences from neurodivergence to creative practices, wellness, and communication, to name a few. Vivienne J is based in Chicago, IL, specifically the North Shore suburbs. She is passionate about filmmaking, documenting lifestyle content, and event recaps. She emphasizes in her media work, stating that she thinks outside the box and gravitates toward stories and perspectives that aren’t often seen. Most of her work subverts expectations and explores identity, belonging, and transformation.
- Publisher
- Vivienne J
- Category
- society & culture
- Language
- en
- Explicit
- No
- First episode
- 3 Jan 2026
- Latest episode
- 6 Aug 2026
Latest episodes
18 episodes in the feed.
6 Aug 2026
let's talk: when your identity is your work (with Scott)
In this episode, I talk with Scott Proposki, a former National Geographic and White House event photographer who lost a seven-figure business overnight, rebuilt from zero, and now teaches photographers with ADHD how to use their camera as a superpower. Scott shares how losing the business he had spent decades building forced him to rethink everything — his career, his identity, and the way he approached business. Our conversation explores the creative process, neurodivergence, starting over, and how the camera can become a tool for confidence, focus, and growth. Eventually, Scott has also talked about how starting over has made him rethink it all — his career, identity, and the way of doing business. We also talked about using the camera not just as a tool, but also as a system for confidence, focus, and growth. I hope you enjoy hearing this meaningful conversation based on what we can connect upon that relates to neurodivergence in everyday situations. Thank you for tuning in!
23 Jun 2026
from Brazil to belonging
Hello, glitter angels. I sit down with Patricia, whom I met at VASA, to talk about her journey from Brazil to the States, culture shock, language, community, and the traditions she still carries with her. We also talk about Brazilian culture, learning Portuguese, and ideas of how immigrant stories can teach us about belonging and resilience. This conversation means a lot to me because I’ve been reflecting on culture, identity, and the immigrant experience in my own life, too. I hope this episode brightens your day and reminds you to keep going, wherever you are in your journey. Here is a reminder for our immigrant families and friends that no matter how many years you’ve lived and come to the States, your experiences have continued to make an impact in our society, which I love for you. This is a reminder to never give up, even when things get tough, and you are more than your status, job title, gender, skin color, size, and so on. Namaste, glitter angels. Have a wonderful day.
19 Jun 2026
just start, even if it feels scary. [SEASON 2 IS HERE!]
Hello angels! I introduce the new season and rebrand, and talk about why waiting for the “perfect time” to create is holding you back. I share my unorthodox process for coming up with concepts in under an hour, how visual storytelling shapes our perceptions, and why it’s okay if your methods seem a little strange to other people. It’s about time I provide additional tips that have helped me on generating more creative ideas as an artist, even if it gets scary. Even as an aspiring filmmaker representing females and Asian culture, I am still known for my “thinking outside the box” methods. I remember watching the movie, Robots (2005), which was released when I was 3 years old. As a little girl, Bigweld pointed out, “You can shine no matter what you’re made of,” and “See a need, fill a need.” Those lines have resonated with me as it still does today. As I said before, you never know unless you try. Please grab yourself some food and coffee, and try this brainstorming activity that I highly suggest. You never know what you’re capable of and what your brain can come up with. Cheers to a new season, glitter angels! Namaste, have a beautiful day. https://youtu.be/vNiZZhMF30A?si=Q9k-EeOzrm0zM6DI (https://youtu.be/vNiZZhMF30A?si=Q9k-EeOzrm0zM6DI) [Jazzy Anne's video] https://youtu.be/NJIuc1itVhM?si=ScbgmXAjq2EG5nuF (https://youtu.be/NJIuc1itVhM?si=ScbgmXAjq2EG5nuF) [Chris White - Indiana Authors] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=erGDbkGwbX8 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=erGDbkGwbX8) [Bigweld Show scene from Robots]
24 May 2026
how I found self-healing in post grad
This episode dives into talking about how things have changed over the past year. As you know, at this moment, it has been twelve months since I graduated from college. Do I even remember it like it’s yesterday… I would have to say that I felt like I had suffered a lot, issues that include long distance, uncertainty, greater transition, anxiety, fears, and so on. On top of that, I felt that all my life, I would not be able to self-heal. At the age of 22, I have started to take action to know myself better, as well as being aware of what’s been happening with my mind and body. I do provide additional tips for post-grads, individuals who may be on a self-healing journey, like myself, and anecdotes about not joining a sorority, finding true belonging, accepting, and many more. I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I took the time to think through this prompt and answer such complex questions I had no response to. Namaste, have a wonderful day.
27 Apr 2026
puzzle pieces are meant to be broken
This episode challenges the traditional “puzzle piece” symbol for autism and the idea that autistic people are mysterious or incomplete. Drawing from films like Kaleidoscope of the Plushies (from when I applied for film school), Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, and The Croods, I suggest more colorful, dynamic ways of seeing neurodivergent identity. Autistic people are not missing pieces– they are meant to be seen and heard as whole, vibrant, and omnidirectional. A lot of people out there have got to do a cleanse for their words and educate themselves more about neurodivergence, along with being better allies. Picture this as if I am teaching a course that has a “Who Do You Think You Are” concept (imagine if writing, psychology, art, zoology came into play, along with fusions of etymology and creative analogy). Perhaps you might hear me say a lot of entertaining imagery– props to my fellow writing professor, Chris White. I also dug more into associations between autistic people and big cats, including how the new approach to ideas contributes to the comparison between objects and animals. Animals cannot be controlled like autism is. However, the puzzle piece must be permanently destroyed. Namaste, have a wonderful day.
14 Apr 2026
post grad is not easy as an autistic girl
Post‑grad life has not been easy. In this episode of Set the Stage, I open up about losing my sense of self after graduation, feeling stuck between my old life and my new one, and how all of this connects to being autistic. I talk about: What I’ve learned 6+ months after graduating Outgrowing my childhood home and old versions of myself Feeling lost and unsure how to build new relationships Common misconceptions about autism Practical allyship tips so you can better support autistic people Being vulnerable is not weakness—it’s heart‑level strength. I hope this episode helps you understand autism more deeply and support the autistic people in your life. Namaste, queers. Have a wonderful day.
4 Apr 2026
so why didn't you?
Perhaps you might have heard that line, as it comes from my favorite movie, How to Train Your Dragon. I figured, as April is known to be Autism Awareness + Acceptance Month, I decided to dig into some big topics regarding to that subject. As much as it seems personal to share, I could not put into words as a young teen. In this episode, I refer to the question that Hiccup answers, “So Why Didn’t You?” – that line resonates very well with me and my autism for many reasons. As mentioned, I relate deeply to Hiccup in terms of feeling different from the group and not being like what is considered “typical.” Aside from talking about just personal struggles, I also dig into some anecdotes relevant to this huge essay-like topic. If you or someone you know is autistic, remind them that they are not alone in that. Namaste, queers. Keep supporting the autism community & bringing awareness and acceptance. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pe9Yu2YDlOI (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pe9Yu2YDlOI) - scene with “So Why Didn’t You?” Astrid and Hiccup https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5blM2CbeNYiMUVBvg9fImgtyNyjv-3uJ (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5blM2CbeNYiMUVBvg9fImgtyNyjv-3uJ) - autism acceptance playlist (resources to look over)
24 Mar 2026
so you didn't get into the school you wanted.
So you didn’t get into the school you wanted. In this episode, I open up about my college application journey as a high school senior during the pandemic and my recent experience as a post-grad applying to film schools. I talk about coping with rejection, what was expected of me, and how I’ve been navigating it all. Honestly, out of all those experiences, as an autistic woman, it has been emotionally a lot for me to sort through and process (it is uncommon to do so). There might have been days thinking that I wouldn’t survive, but I did it anyway. If you’re a high school senior or anyone facing admissions decisions, I hope this reminds you that you’re so much more than your rejections or waitlists. Namaste, and best of luck on finishing off strong, lovelies. Love y'all!
11 Mar 2026
own your identity (finding yourself in your 20s) & busting gender binary
In this International Women’s Week special, I’m unleashing full “big cat energy” and owning my identity as a queer woman in my early 20s. I’m breaking down the gender binary (man box, gender expectations, gendered misconceptions/assumptions), sharing what my heart taught me when I felt completely lost, and telling real stories from the gym floor, personal training, and finding spaces where I finally felt safe. If you’ve ever questioned who you are or where you belong, this episode is for you. You don’t have to figure it all out alone—therapy, friends, and self-awareness can become your essentials. Namaste, angels. Happy Women’s History Month. Hit play, tap into your own big cat energy, and stay tuned by following me on all socials below.
25 Feb 2026
how I've been handling post grad fear & talking about friendship
For this next huge topic, taking on another one that is not easy to speak about, and that is friendship. This correlates to how I struggled with it as an autistic person. These days, I still find it hard to talk about it, especially after graduating from DePauw, and saying goodbye, which made it even harder. If you are in a similar phase, you do not have to survive post-grad on your own. By committing to the gym and getting back into therapy, I became better at knowing what is okay and what is not okay for me. Additionally, I bring up some pieces of advice that have helped me from the first few months and throughout in terms of setting boundaries, developing connections that fulfill important relationships, going outside my comfort zone, and so on. I appreciate you always for taking the time to listen to what I have to say. Don’t hesitate to ask questions if certain parts seem confusing to you. As always, follow me on all socials and be sure to stay updated on my vlogs. Enjoy!
2 Feb 2026
"great" is out! (problem with dull language)
In this episode, I discuss a huge topic that I took the time to write about. This wasn’t simple to talk about, but nowadays, hearing that my work is “great” just bothers me. We talk about why and how I find this a problem. To me, “great” just does not feel enough. I would prefer to hear terms bigger than that, and delivering more genuineness. Additionally, I speak of some trauma roots, linguistic lessons, and my next phase with Zumba. If there are parts of the episode that seem confusing, don’t hesitate to ask questions. As always, my DMs are open. Jazzy Anne talked about how in the description on her video, there's this idea that you must isolate yourself to be "great", especially as an artist or creator. If you’re a creator, artist, writer, or anyone who’s ever felt like you have to sacrifice everything to succeed… this video is for you. You don't have to do it alone anymore. That was what I still feel today— I don’t have to think of tackling such big projects on my own. People's motivation is what keeps me going, too. I hope you find this episode impactful and empowering, as writing must have been tough. I have been trying to encourage people to expand their vocabulary and not dwell on generic terms. And for college students, please take a communication and writing class! It’ll be worthwhile! SOURCES MENTIONED: https://youtu.be/m2yYwXPSOz8 (https://youtu.be/m2yYwXPSOz8) (Kaleidoscope of the Plushies) from my film channel https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pUMt99kx154 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pUMt99kx154) (Eep conflict with family scene) https://www.canva.com/design/DAHADUVVgH8/BfBPtXdUibxBqzKCFmN4-g/view?utm_content=DAHADUVVgH8&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=h1914ac96ce (https://www.canva.com/design/DAHADUVVgH8/BfBPtXdUibxBqzKCFmN4-g/view?utm_content=DAHADUVVgH8&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=h1914ac96ce) (PowerPoint presentation from the video I made) Enjoy!
13 Jan 2026
how I use my special interests in everyday life & content creation
Welcome to Episode 7 of Set the Stage!For this one, I discuss a prompt that I have spent a few days writing of. It was tough to talk of as I was brainstorming because I had a lack of words to describe the plushies and special interests that have become an integral part of who I am. Yes, I speak of brief story overviews of the movies I have seen, but also contributing to how they have become important to me. From a young age, I have loved stories involving the underdog dynamic, or the outsider willing to prove oneself. For example, I discuss how there are possibilities for how I define womanhood. I focus on not just motivation, but also reflecting upon what important aspects have shaped me in what way. For many years, I have become upset about why I still get such rhetorical questions about that, and it bugs me still as a neurodivergent person.I hope this episode has brightened up your day, as I worked hard on this prompt, and that I don’t feel alone in this. Let me know if you can relate to any of what I’ve been through! Let’s girl talk this out. Feel free to DM for ideas, requests, questions, and so on.
4 Jan 2026
where my head is at for 2026
Welcome to 2026! New year, new beginnings! This is episode 6 of the series. And because of this, it’s about time that we talk about where I personally am setting for the year. We’re speaking of goals and hopes, and briefly reflecting on 2025, but at the same time, I’m sharing some tips that have helped me achieve them. All that matters is often finding a system to navigate around you in a way that helps you build up, taking small steps to fulfill those achievements. To me, finding consistency in routine is everything. It has helped me thrive in a system that is custom-made for me instead of following a “typical” system. Another thing is that I do not want to feel like the only person who feels this way about it, too. As you listen in, I wish all of you trans, queers, and women a lot of hope and positivity for 2026. And also, Set the Stage is now on Spotify! Feel free to leave a review. I genuinely hope this brightens up your days. If you ever need to be cheered up, you could always visit my channel and everything.
3 Jan 2026
ways to be effective at communication
It is about time that we discuss the subject of communication. First off, I understand how hard it can be to navigate. It is such a complex subject in terms of what we want to say. At times, there are people out there who do not watch the way they say certain things, without knowing that these could be considered harmful to neurodivergent individuals. Those can lead to misjudging a lot, making assumptions, all those things. To me, as I speak from both a personal perspective and what I’ve learned as a neurodivergent person, it’s about time that I share what helpful tips can be provided. This can come into play with any profession, not limited to education, arts, music, nursing, medicine, dentistry, to name a few. I hope this has helped you as much as these tips have helped me discover myself. [PUBLISHED ON 12/16/2025]
3 Jan 2026
my asian american experiences
It’s no brainer that I am obviously full Korean, born and raised in the States. There were moments in my life where I faced some difficulties, such as dealing with racism, misconceptions, pressures that my family went through, and codeswitching, to name a few. And another thing, I do discuss briefly of my family background since you might have seen what they look like from previous videos. I got sick and tired of having to explain to people that I am not Chinese or Japanese, so that's another reason why I’ve provided some good key info to know. Aside from personal experiences, I also include some recommendations, such as learning Korean, trying Korean food, & more. [PUBLISHED ON 10/12/2025]
3 Jan 2026
life & fitness with my PT coach
I got to interview my personal trainer, Chris Milano, from VASA Fitness, as we talked about wellness and health, and how those two aspects collide. We both discuss finding silver linings in the middle of how life may take us in a direction we do not expect. He discussed things he noticed during his pursuit of medicine, while I share similarly to how life hits us. While filming, I felt glad that Chris got to talk to me about this because I also felt alone shortly after leaving college. As much as post-grad anxiety still affects me with missing my people and the fun memories I’ve made, my local gym has been a wonderful help in making me feel alive again. [PUBLISHED ON 9/12/2025]
3 Jan 2026
neurodivergence dos & don'ts
https://roejua.wixsite.com/viviennejproductions - Viv's Websitehttps://linktr.ee/therealviviennej - Viv's LinksYou have entered the second episode of the series. We dive into one of the subjects as listed. In this case and point, we discuss neurodivergence dos and don’ts, as well as tips on navigating around individuals who identify as neurodivergent. If you are a student or an educator who does not have much experience with neurodivergent knowledge, it’s about time I share what I have discovered, speaking from personal experiences and DOs and DON'Ts that apply to neurodivergence. And another thing, it is never too late to learn about this material. I hope you find this fascinating as much as I enjoyed discussing all this stuff. Do not hesitate to learn more about neurodivergence by going to these links too. AUTISM LINKS (ALTERNATIVE TO AUTISM SPEAKS)https://communicationfirst.org/ https://awnnetwork.org/ https://autismsociety.org/ https://www.autisticinclusivemeets.org/ https://autisticadvocacy.org/ [PUBLISHED ON 8/24/2025]
3 Jan 2026
Jumpstart vlogging in 10 days (episode 1)
Welcome to Episode 1 of Set the Stage! You have now entered a new series. You might have recognized me through my vlogs on YouTube. The thing is, it’s such a shame that I’m not doing college vlogs anymore. The great note, however, is that we have a new addition to the channel. This is my first time setting up a podcast section/web show, so I’m accustomed to speaking in front of a camera frequently. What makes me angry is when people first intended to look at me, they often jump to assuming that I cannot put together words or talk. What is covered in the first episode consists of learning how you be a vlogger within ten days. I would say to a newcomer that the hardest part is getting started, so that is not uncommon to feel that way. I knew what that was like when I first got into it. We are focused on phases & breaking down tips that have helped me. I have gotten asked a lot about how long it takes me to put together a vlog, how ideas come to me, and the list goes on.With this being the beginning, feel free to ask me questions or send in recommendations, and let me know how you have been enjoying this series. Your comments would be appreciated a lot! Any positive review is the way to go! [PUBLISHED ON 8/12/2025]
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