This story was originally published in our Spring 2011 issue. Get your copy here.
Story by Janice Jann
Our America (OWN) | Lisa Ling, 37, brings the glorious melting pot of America to television in her new investigative series, Our America, on the Oprah Winfrey Network, airing Wednesdays at 10 pm. Here, the seasoned journalist gives us the scoop on her new gig.
Audrey Magazine: What is Our America about?
Lisa Ling: I grew up as an Asian American, a Chinese American, not feeling like I fit into any culture. This series is kind of a window into who we are as Americans.
AM: You’ve reported all over the world. Why focus on America now?
LL: I worked in so many different parts of the world, but I found myself fascinated by things that were happening in our own backyards.
AM: Do you think Our America covers lighter topics than your previous shows?
LL: [The National Geographic shows] are fascinating to do, but I believe these shows have more heart than anything I’ve ever done. No matter the topic, we feature people who ultimately came from a mother who love him or her. That’s something I keep in the back of my mind.
[wp_ad_camp_2]
AM: I’ve heard that faith is something you tackle in this series.
LL: It is. I think a lot comes out of the fact that I’ve been searching for a long time. I have seen a lot that made me question God. But what my husband helped me realize – he’s a man of strong faith – is God works in everyone and if you are questioning where God is, then it’s a sign that maybe God wants to work in you to try to be a light. I’m fascinated by this topic. I can’t stop thinking about it.
AM: What’s cool about OWN?
LL: There’s a lot of heart behind every show that is being produced and I’ve never had that experience working in TV before. It’s really unique.
