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0🎙️ About this Episode
What does it really take to communicate across cultures?
Cindy speaks with NYU Shanghai graduate Savanna about navigating three languages, two cultures, and the unspoken rules of workplace communication. Savanna shares how she found her voice — from practicing courage to learning the cultural "code" most people miss. Cindy reveals the four qualities she looks for in every hire, and why connection matters more than perfection.
If you're working, studying, or leading across cultures — this one's for you.
👩🏫 About the Host
Cindy Chiu is a professor at NYU Shanghai who has worked across 12 cultures and held leadership roles at McKinsey, Microsoft, LEGO, and Stokke. One of her most meaningful experiences was working with a nonprofit in Jamaica, far beyond the corporate world.
Through this podcast, she shares honest stories and lessons to help you find your voice，pursue what matters to you, and discover how communication can open doors to people, possibilities, and a bigger world.
👩🎓 About the Guest
Savanna Peng is a Class of 2026 graduate of NYU Shanghai with a B.S. in Business and Marketing (Management Concentration). Raised between China and the United States, she spent her early childhood in Hawaiʻi, immersed in its rich and diverse culture.
During university, she studied in both Shanghai and New York City, and was actively involved in dance and student life. This fall, she returns to New York to join L'Oréal USA as a Management Trainee in beauty marketing.
⏱️ Episode Highlights
1:43 Two Cultures, Three Languages, One Identity
2:47 "I Had to Relearn English — Twice."
4:28 The Secret to Learning a Language? It's Not Talent.
5:55 Communication Is More Than Speaking Perfect English
7:22 Why She Chose NYU Shanghai — Despite a 5% Acceptance Rate
9:43 The One Thing That Saved Her from Burnout
13:05 The #1 Mistake Most People Make When Communicating
15:05 Want Your Boss to Listen? Start with the Conclusion.
19:37 The 30-Second Speech That Landed Her a Dream Job
21:50 What Top Employers Are Really Looking For
25:52 The Silent Culture Clash Most Professionals Miss
29:56 She Walked Up to a VP and Changed Her Life
31:10 From NYU Shanghai to Maybelline New York
36:56 What "Success" Actually Means (Hint: It's Not Money)
39:50 Advice for Living Out a Life with Passion and Balance
❤️ A Thought to Take Away
“The most important thing is to enjoy daily life and live out a life connected to your heart.”
This episode isn't just about communicating with impact — it's also about staying connected with yourself in a busy, multicultural world.
🎬 Production Team
NYU Shanghai Library Digital Studio Team
