When Dr. Sheldon Riklon spoke to a group of Micronesian young people earlier this year, he heard the murmurs when he said where he was born.

“Really?” they asked. “You’re from Ebeye?”

By now the Oahu physician has gotten used to being a role model, and he welcomes the chance to inspire his fellow Micronesians and dispel the myth that his people are underachievers.

Hit the play button to hear the discussion or subscribe to the Civil Beat Podcast on iTunes or Stitcher.

Click here to read a transcript of this podcast.

Read our series, “The Micronesians: An Untold Story of American Immigration.”

Ozark Islanders Marshallese in North-West Arkansas. Dr. Sheldon Riklon speaks during First Friday -- Lunch and Learn, department of Native Hawaiian Health, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa. 6 march 2015. photograph Cory Lum/Civil Beat
Dr. Sheldon Riklon often has to repeat himself. Yes, he is a physician from Micronesia. Cory Lum/Civil Beat
Want to hear more? Check out Civil Beat’s other podcasts.
pod squad badge - smallThe Pod Squad
iTunes
Stitcher
podcast badge - smallCivil Beat Podcasts
iTunes
Stitcher

Want to hear more? Check out Civil Beat's other podcasts.

News is a basic need.

Civil Beat provides essential information when you need it most. Our breaking news reporting gives you the facts you need in the moment, while our in-depth coverage helps you hold leadership accountable and participate in a healthy democracy.

News is a basic needand it needs your support.

You can help power our coverage and nonprofit mission with a tax-deductible donation of any amount. Mahalo.

About the Author

You can subscribe to Civil Beat's podcasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, SoundCloud and your favorite podcast app.