Growing up in a traditional Chinese household in Pittsburgh, the expectations were clear and unwavering: excel academically, master the piano, speak Chinese, and above all—never bring shame to the family. My parents immigrated from Taiwan after fleeing Communist China, carrying with them generations of cultural values rooted in discipline, honor, and respect. These values were not just spoken—they were lived, every day. From my mother, a Chinese Martha Stewart who created unforgettable guest experiences with elegance and care, I learned the art of meticulous attention to detail and the power of creating meaningful moments. From my father, a quiet rebel, I learned it was okay to bend the rules and forge your own path—as long as you stayed true to yourself.
These dual influences—my mother’s sense of duty and my father’s encouragement to take risks—deeply inform the leader I am today. My heritage instilled in me the values of practice, contribution, authenticity, and the ability to pivot. In Chinese culture, there’s often a silent weight placed on achievement, and for me, this manifested in a strong desire not just to succeed but to exceed expectations. I carry that same performance-based mindset into leadership, with a bias for action and a commitment to continuous improvement. I believe in creating remarkable experiences, not just for customers but for employees—drawing directly from my mother’s example of intentional hospitality and care.
Early in my career, I had the privilege of being mentored by a former naval nuclear submarine officer turned consulting firm COO. Under his guidance, I learned that leadership is fundamentally about service—hiring great people, setting a clear vision, and then empowering them to succeed. What resonated so deeply was how his leadership style mirrored some of the values I was raised with: discipline, structure, high standards, and respect for others. But he also encouraged me to challenge the status quo—something my father had quietly modeled. My Chinese upbringing taught me to work hard behind the scenes, to avoid drawing negative attention, and to pursue excellence without boasting. My mentor helped me balance those instincts with the need to speak up, take calculated risks, and lead visibly and authentically. That blend of humility and boldness shaped my leadership style in powerful ways.
As we celebrate AAPI Heritage Month, I reflect on the beauty and complexity of being raised between cultures. My leadership journey is an evolving tapestry of tradition and transformation. I honor my ancestors by leading with intention, and I push forward with the courage they instilled in me—to adapt, to serve, and to always strive for something better.
About the Author
Debbie Ung is President and Chief Revenue Officer for Blanchard. She is responsible for leading the executive team to create and implement strategies that follow the vision, mission, and values of the company, and ensuring revenue growth through collaborative client relationships.
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