A few hours before making the soup, soak 1 tablespoon of lemongrass in a few ounces of water to awaken the flavor from the stems. So perhaps, when you’re having lunch, make a point to do this.
Again going back to time saving simplicity, I put the Instant Pot on Saute and just start adding the following ingredients and stirring along the way. If you don't have an Instant Pot, you ought to check it out as it this is another feature for adding simplicity to a busy life. Otherwise, use a pot on the stove, get the ingredients to a good boil and drop down to a vigorous simmer, maybe medium low depending on your stove.
The Saute mode on the Instant Pot will get to a vibrant boil going rather quickly of which I let run about 10 minutes in all without the lid off and toss the cilantro in during the last few minutes. That’s it!
Check the depth of the flavor and consider more or less Liquid Aminos, Brown Rice Syrup, Miso and Chili Flakes to pop the flavor to your liking.