Podcast Summary: The Interview with Leslie Heaney – Episode: "The Manicurist’s Daughter" featuring Susan Liu
Introduction
In the March 19, 2025 episode of The Interview with Leslie Heaney, host Leslie Heaney engages in a profound conversation with Susan Liu, an accomplished author, activist, and storyteller. Susan Liu discusses her award-winning solo show, 140lbs How Beauty Killed My Mother, and her debut memoir, The Manicurist’s Daughter. Through her narrative, Susan delves into themes of grief, intergenerational trauma, identity, and resilience, offering listeners an inspiring and heartfelt exploration of her family's journey from Vietnamese refugees to American business owners.
Susan Liu's Background
Susan Liu is the first American-born child of Vietnamese immigrants who fled Saigon in 1981 to escape the aftermath of the Vietnam War. Her parents, illiterate with limited education, demonstrated immense bravery and resourcefulness to establish a new life in the United States. Susan recounts their arduous journey, highlighting the underground lottery operation her mother initiated to secure one-way tickets amidst perilous conditions at sea.
The Tragic Loss of Susan's Mother
A pivotal moment in Susan's life occurred when her mother died at the age of 38 from a botched tummy tuck procedure performed by a disgraced plastic surgeon, Dr. Leslie Moglen. The surgery, intended as a "shortcut" for personal empowerment, tragically resulted in her mother's death. Susan reflects on the silence that enveloped her family for two decades following this loss, emphasizing the profound impact it had on her understanding of grief and familial bonds.
"Today I'm so thrilled to share my conversation with author, activist and storyteller Susan Liu... Through her storytelling, Susan really explores deeply themes of grief, intergenerational trauma, identity, and resilience." [00:05]
The Quest for Understanding
At the age of 11, Susan was left with unanswered questions about her mother's death. Driven by a desire to uncover the truth, she embarked on an investigative journey that included tracking down the plastic surgeon, consulting spirit channelers, and traveling to Vietnam multiple times. This relentless pursuit not only aimed to shed light on her mother's final days but also served as a means for Susan to understand her own identity and familial legacy.
"Yeah, this is a daughter's quest to know her mother when no one else will talk about her... I needed to know her." [01:55]
Creative Expression Through Theater
Susan transformed her grief and investigative findings into a creative outlet by developing a one-woman show, 140lbs How Beauty Killed My Mother. Despite lacking formal training in theater, Susan leveraged her MBA background to produce and tour the show across the country. This endeavor not only allowed her to process her emotions but also provided a platform for healing and connection with audiences.
"What I call therapeutic theater... The laughter keeps you there to go through those waves of emotion." [12:53]
Writing the Memoir
Building on the success of her theatrical work, Susan transitioned to writing her memoir, The Manicurist’s Daughter. The writing process was extensive and deeply personal, involving numerous drafts and meticulous research to piece together her family's narrative. Susan collaborated with Celadon McMillan and editor Deb Futter, who believed in her vision and helped bring her story to a wider audience.
"The draft of my book itself was eight drafts... to get to the essence and the core and the right details too." [37:08]
Family Dynamics and Healing
Susan's work on her show and memoir had a transformative effect on her relationships with her siblings and father. Initially met with resistance and feelings that Susan was "exploiting" her mother's story, her family members gradually began to understand and support her efforts. This shared journey towards healing fostered a newfound openness and appreciation within the family.
"I've seen a turn with my siblings... They come on stage afterwards and do a public Q and A with me." [15:01]
Lessons and Insights
Throughout the conversation, Susan emphasizes the importance of living authentically and addressing unresolved emotions before it's too late. She encourages listeners to engage in their own "shadow work" and confront the aspects of their lives that require attention and healing.
"I want people to live like they're mortal... you don't know when your time is up." [46:47]
Future Endeavors
Looking ahead, Susan is focused on expanding her reach through speaking engagements, a TEDx talk titled "How to Make Peace with Your Belly Fat," and aspirations in film and television. She remains committed to using her platforms to inspire others, share her story, and continue her journey of personal and collective healing.
"My big dream... I want to connect deeply with the human experience on the spectrum of joy and tragedy... across all mediums." [50:55]
Conclusion
Leslie Heaney concludes the episode by praising Susan's resilience and creative spirit, highlighting her remarkable ability to turn personal tragedy into powerful storytelling. Susan Liu's journey serves as an inspiring testament to the strength of the human spirit and the healing power of art and narrative.
"I know with you pursuing it, Susan, you're gonna get there... it was such a pleasure to have you." [53:16]
Notable Quotes
- Leslie Heaney [00:05]: "If a topic is relevant and compelling, it is covered on The Interview."
- Susan Liu [01:55]: "This is a daughter's quest to know her mother when no one else will talk about her."
- Susan Liu [12:53]: "I call it therapeutic theater... The laughter keeps you there to go through those waves of emotion."
- Susan Liu [37:08]: "The draft of my book itself was eight drafts... to get to the essence and the core and the right details too."
- Susan Liu [46:47]: "I want people to live like they're mortal... you don't know when your time is up."
- Leslie Heaney [53:16]: "I know with you pursuing it, Susan, you're gonna get there... it was such a pleasure to have you."
Final Thoughts
The Interview with Leslie Heaney episode featuring Susan Liu offers a compelling exploration of trauma, resilience, and the transformative power of storytelling. Susan's honest and heartfelt recounting of her family's experiences provides valuable insights into navigating grief and embracing one's identity. For those seeking inspiration and a deeper understanding of the immigrant experience and personal healing, this episode is a must-listen.