Meet William Hung | Entertainer & Speaker

We had the good fortune of connecting with William Hung and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi William, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I am passionate about math and data analysis. I want to use these talents to help more people find their voice using data science and AI.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My career has taken some interesting twists and turns, but at its core, it has always been driven by my passion for learning and helping others. One of my greatest passions is math, and for a long time, I thought I would become a math teacher. Math has always fascinated me—the way it challenges the mind to think logically and solve complex problems has been something I’ve loved since I was young. It was this passion that led me to pursue a degree in mathematics at UC Berkeley.

However, my time at UC Berkeley was far from easy. I struggled significantly during my early years in college. The workload was overwhelming, and I quickly realized that the study methods I had used in high school were not enough to succeed at such a rigorous institution. I faced failure, frustration, and self-doubt. But instead of giving up, I decided to tackle these challenges head-on. I learned how to study more effectively by breaking problems down into smaller, manageable parts and seeking out additional resources when I needed help. I also learned how important it is to work together with classmates, not only for academic success but for emotional support. Forming study groups, asking for help when needed, and collaborating with others made a huge difference. I also became more proactive in solving problems, both academically and personally, which has been a key life lesson for me.

Although I initially thought my career path would lead me to become a math teacher, life had other plans. After finishing my studies, I felt a strong pull towards public service, and that’s when I decided to work for the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. This decision might seem like a departure from my passion for math, but in reality, the problem-solving skills and discipline I developed while studying math helped prepare me for the challenges I face in this role. I found that the desire to help others and contribute to the community is something I’m equally passionate about.

What sets me apart is the combination of my unique life experiences and my academic journey. While many people know me from my unexpected rise to fame, what I’m most proud of is how I overcame adversity and learned to thrive in an environment that initially seemed impossible. My time in college taught me resilience and the importance of collaboration—skills that I apply every day in my work and personal life.

I want the world to know that no matter what challenges you face, whether academic or personal, you have the power to overcome them. My journey has been full of unexpected turns, but each challenge has helped me grow stronger and more determined to succeed. Today, I use my experiences to inspire others, helping them realize that even the toughest obstacles can be turned into stepping stones for success.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If I had the chance to take my best friend on a week-long trip to Tokyo, Japan, it would be an adventure packed with culture, food, and unforgettable experiences. Though I haven’t been there myself, I’ve always been fascinated by the city, and I’ve put together an itinerary that blends traditional Japanese culture with the vibrant, modern energy Tokyo is famous for.

Day 1: Exploring Shibuya and Harajuku
We’d kick off our trip in Shibuya, one of the busiest and most exciting districts. I’d take my friend to experience the famous Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing. From there, we’d visit Hachiko Square, dedicated to Japan’s most loyal dog, and then explore Shibuya Sky, an observation deck that offers a breathtaking view of the city.

Next, we’d head to Harajuku, the fashion hub of Tokyo. This area is known for its colorful street style, and we’d spend the afternoon strolling along Takeshita Street, browsing quirky shops, and trying Japan’s famous crepes. We’d end the day with dinner at an authentic ramen shop like Ichiran Ramen, where we could savor the rich flavors of one of Japan’s most iconic dishes.

Day 2: Tradition Meets Modern in Asakusa and Akihabara
Day two would be about blending Tokyo’s rich history with its modern edge. We’d start in Asakusa, visiting the famous Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple. Walking through the Nakamise shopping street, we’d try traditional snacks like taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet red bean) and buy some souvenirs.

In the afternoon, we’d switch gears and head to Akihabara, the heart of Tokyo’s anime, manga, and gaming culture. My friend and I would check out retro gaming shops, experience the unique vibe of a maid café, and explore all the incredible tech and pop culture stores. For dinner, we’d try out a conveyor belt sushi restaurant like Sushiro, where fresh sushi is served right in front of us.

Day 3: Day Trip to Mount Fuji
No trip to Tokyo would be complete without a day trip to see Mount Fuji. We’d take a train to Hakone, where we could soak in the hot springs and enjoy scenic views of the iconic mountain. We’d also ride the Hakone Ropeway, which offers stunning views of Mount Fuji and Lake Ashi.

For lunch, we’d enjoy a traditional kaiseki meal, which is a multi-course Japanese dining experience that highlights the freshest seasonal ingredients. After a relaxing day, we’d head back to Tokyo, ready for more city adventures.

Day 4: Art, History, and Tranquility
To soak in some culture, we’d spend the morning at the Tokyo National Museum, where we’d dive into Japanese art and history. Then, we’d head to the serene Meiji Shrine, a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Walking through the lush forested grounds would be the perfect way to reflect on Tokyo’s incredible blend of nature and urban life.

For dinner, we’d visit Omoide Yokocho (also known as Memory Lane) in Shinjuku. This alleyway is packed with tiny eateries serving grilled skewers, yakitori, and other delicious street food. It’s the perfect place to experience authentic Tokyo nightlife in a cozy, local setting.

Day 5: Disney Magic and the Tokyo Bay Area
On day five, we’d visit Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea. I’ve always wanted to experience the unique Disney parks in Japan, which are known for their attention to detail and extraordinary themes. We’d spend the day enjoying rides, shows, and, of course, indulging in Disney-themed snacks.

In the evening, we’d explore Odaiba, a futuristic area located on a man-made island in Tokyo Bay. We’d check out the TeamLab Borderless museum, an immersive digital art museum, and then have dinner at a waterfront restaurant with a view of the Rainbow Bridge.

Day 6: Markets, Gardens, and Nightlife
We’d start the day early at Tsukiji Outer Market, famous for its fresh seafood and vibrant food stalls. After indulging in a fresh sushi breakfast, we’d spend the afternoon at the beautiful Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, one of the largest parks in Tokyo. The garden’s mix of traditional Japanese, English, and French landscaping would offer a serene break in the middle of the city.

In the evening, we’d dive into Tokyo’s nightlife in Roppongi, known for its lively clubs, bars, and restaurants. We’d grab a drink at a stylish rooftop bar, like Two Rooms Grill & Bar, where we could enjoy stunning views of the Tokyo skyline.

Day 7: Shopping and Reflection
For our last day, we’d keep things more relaxed, starting with a visit to the upscale shopping district of Ginza. We’d browse high-end boutiques and visit the famous Ginza Six shopping mall. Afterward, we’d take a leisurely stroll through Ueno Park, where we could reflect on the week’s adventures.

To end the trip, we’d have a traditional Japanese dinner at a kappo restaurant, where the chef prepares each dish right in front of us, providing a final taste of Japan’s extraordinary culinary heritage.

This would be the perfect mix of cultural exploration, modern experiences, and amazing food that Tokyo is so well known for. Even though I’ve never been to Tokyo, it’s high on my list of places to visit because of its incredible blend of tradition and innovation. I’d love to dive into this city and experience everything it has to offer!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Shoutout to my wife Hannah because she lets me choose the path I want to follow, not the path that other people want me to follow. She is a living example of this.

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