In this episode of The Khmer Tree Podcast, host Chad sits down with Sophy Khut, a beloved Cambodian restaurant owner in Long Beach, California. Sophy recounts her remarkable journey—from growing up in Cambodia and surviving the civil war, to escaping to Thailand and eventually rebuilding her life in the United States. She shares the hardships she faced as a refugee, the perseverance it took to start a new life, and how she channeled her passion into founding a successful Cambodian restaurant.
Sophy opens up about the role food has played in preserving her identity and creating space for cultural connection. Her story is one of resilience, deep community ties, and a powerful commitment to keeping Cambodian traditions alive. She reflects on the importance of sharing these stories with the next generation and nurturing pride in Khmer heritage through cuisine, storytelling, and service.
This heartfelt conversation highlights the strength of immigrant families and the vital role of community support in overcoming adversity.
