Imagine discovering that the man you believed was your dad was not your biological father. What would that do to your sense of self and identity? Carmen Rita Wong lived that reality, and it sparked an electrifying journey of self-discovery that shares in her memoir, "Why Didn't You Tell Me?" Get ready for a rollercoaster of revelations as she uncovers her heritage and answers the age-old question: Who the hell am I?But Carmen's life isn't just about secrets and ancestry. It's a relentless journey of reinvention in both her personal and professional spheres. From multiple successful career pivots to navigating the complexities of family and parenting, Carmen's story is an inspiring tale of resilience and the audacity to be unapologetically herself.Join Erin and Carmen for a conversation that dives deep into self-discovery, family mysteries, smashing stereotypes, and a rebellious spirit in a world that insists on fitting into its tiny, boring boxes. Here's what’s on the table:Discovering the difference between who you are, who the world says you are, and who your parents tell you to beCarmen’s journey that followed learning about her father’s true identityThe challenges Carmen faced as a Latina and Chinese woman in predominantly white environmentsWhy 50 is a transformative and liberating age for women and helps us see what’s most important in lifeCarmen's magnetic career transitions, from magazine editor to advice columnist, to writer and more!Exploring parent-child relationships and the importance of letting your kids be their own unique selvesEmbracing change and redefining what family and relationships mean - it's a pathway to epic connectionsOUR GUEST: Carmen Rita Wong is a writer, producer, and non-profit board leader, including the boards of The Moth and the Planned Parenthood Federation of America. She is the former co-creator and television host of On the Money on CNBC and was a national advice columnist for Glamour, Latina, Essence, Men’s Health, and Good Housekeeping. Carmen is the author of a series of novels and two bestselling advice books, including her latest memoir "Why Didn't You Tell Me?". She is the founder and CEO of Malecon Productions, LLC, where she develops female-focused media and entertainment. Want more Carmen? Find her and her books online at https://www.carmenritawong.com/ and follow her on:Instagram: @carmenritawongTwitter: @CarmenSense Want more Hotter Than Ever? Find us online at www.hotterthaneverpod.com and sign up for our mailing list! Follow us on:Instagram: @hotterthaneverpod TikTok: @hotterthaneverpod Youtube: @hotterthaneverpod Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090728330453 Follow Hotter Than Ever wherever you listen to podcasts so you never miss an episode! We’d love to hear what you think about the show - tell us what stories are resonating with you. DM us on Instagram and write us a review on Apple Podcasts!Mentioned in this episode:Broad CollectiveLearn more about Broad Collective and our membership network for midlife women entrepreneurs at broadcollective.com. Apply to join Broad Collective at https://broad-collective-co.mn.co/landing