Shows
Khmer Tree PodcastVanny Whitchelo - Founder & Host of Khmer Voices PodcastVanny Whitchelo - Founder & Host of Khmer Voices Podcast2025-07-2752 min
Khmer Tree PodcastDorothy Chow - Founder & Host of Death in Cambodia Life in America PodcastDorothy Chow - Founder & Host of Death in Cambodia Life in America Podcast2025-07-2754 min
Khmer Tree PodcastKaylene Men - Owner of Khmer Bridal Boutique, Long Beach, CAKaylene Men - Owner of Khmer Bridal Boutique, Long Beach, CA2434 E Pacific Coast Hwy Long Beach, CA, United States, California 908042025-07-2752 min
Khmer Tree PodcastKun Chap - Retired Navy CommanderKun Chap - Retired Navy Commander2025-07-271h 09
Khmer Tree PodcastKim Chha Hout - Cambodia Honorary Consul General & President of Cambodia Chamber of CommerceKim Chha Hout - Cambodia Honorary Consul General & President of Cambodia Chamber of Commerce2025-07-2757 min
Khmer Tree PodcastBoden Him - Master of Creatives Explains AllBoden Him - Master of Creatives Explains All2025-07-2747 min
Khmer Tree PodcastDon King Pin - Program Manager at United Cambodian CommunityDon King Pin - Program Manager at United Cambodian Community2025-07-2753 min
Khmer Tree PodcastKreng Krich - Former Youth Pastor Explains AllKreng Krich - Former Youth Pastor Explains All2025-07-271h 28
Khmer Tree PodcastSokea Peou - Childhood Friend Opens Up About Cancer & FamilySokea Peou - Childhood Friend Opens Up About Cancer & Family2025-07-271h 11
Khmer Tree PodcastDr. Christina Lee - Owner & Physician of Majestic Medical Clinic, Long Beach, CAIn this deeply moving episode, Dr. Christina Lee shares her extraordinary life story—a journey marked by profound hardship, unwavering faith, and an enduring commitment to service. Born in Cambodia, Dr. Lee lived through one of the darkest periods in the country’s history: the Khmer Rouge regime. She recounts harrowing memories of being separated from family, surviving forced labor camps, and witnessing the devastating impact of genocide on her community. Despite these unimaginable challenges, her spirit remained unbroken.Dr. Lee’s escape from Cambodia and eventual resettlement in the United States marked the beginn...2025-07-031h 32
Khmer Tree PodcastSophy Khut - Owner of Sophy's Restaurant, Long Beach, CAIn 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 sp...2025-07-031h 09
Khmer Tree PodcastSophaline Mao, MA, MBA - Khmer-American Real Estate Entrepreneur in CaliforniaIn this episode, we chat with Sophaline Mao, a Cambodian American whose journey from refugee to tech and real estate professional is a testament to resilience and self-discovery. Sophaline reflects on her family’s escape from the Khmer Rouge, growing up in Stockton, and navigating cultural identity while pursuing education and career success. She shares pivotal moments, from changing her academic path to emphasizing the power of self-awareness and family support. Sophaline also discusses her work establishing Salesforce in Cambodia and her dedication to community engagement. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about embracing heritage, healing from past traumas, an...2025-04-031h 21
Khmer Tree PodcastTony Te Chan - Cambodian Community Organizer, Events Coordinator & Real Estate Professional, Long Beach, CAIn this episode we chat with Tony Te Chan, a respected entrepreneur and community leader in Long Beach, California. Tony shares his journey as a Cambodian refugee, his experiences growing up in Long Beach—a hub for Cambodian immigrants—and his passion for real estate and community engagement. The conversation explores the importance of cultural preservation, bridging generational gaps, and the significance of events like Cambodian New Year. As the 50th anniversary of the Cambodian American journey approaches, Tony encourages the younger generation to connect with their roots and document their families’ stories. Join us for an inspiring discussion on her...2025-04-0346 min
Khmer Tree PodcastDr. Kara Uy Has - Cambodian Refugee from Battambang to Doctor in AmericaIn this powerful episode, Kara Has shares her inspiring journey from refugee to clinical psychologist and community advocate. She reflects on her childhood experiences, the challenges of growing up in a large family, and the values of hard work and resilience. Kara discusses the role of storytelling in healing and preserving cultural heritage, while also addressing mental health challenges within the Cambodian community. She highlights the importance of equitable opportunities for youth, the impact of intergenerational trauma, and the necessity of open conversations about mental health. Tune in for an insightful discussion on transforming survival into thriving, building unity...2025-04-021h 31
Khmer Tree PodcastMao Beckett - EMDR-Certified Somatic Therapist / Clinical Social Work, LCSW, LICSWIn this episode of Khmer Tree Podcast, Chad sits down with Mao Beckett, an EMDR-certified somatic therapist from Milwaukee, to explore the impact of intergenerational trauma on the Khmer diaspora. As a first-generation American, Mao shares her personal experiences growing up in the Khmer community and how they shaped her understanding of mental health.They discuss the importance of acknowledging trauma, the role of EMDR therapy in healing, and why rest, play, and collective care are essential for moving forward. Mao emphasizes the need for cultural awareness in mental health and the power of community support in...2025-04-021h 04
Khmer Tree PodcastThourn Heng - Cambodian Refugee from Battambang to High School Math Teacher in AmericaIn this episode of Khmer Tree Podcast, Chad sits down with Thourn Heng to discuss his incredible journey from a Cambodian refugee to a dedicated educator and filmmaker in the U.S. Thourn reflects on his childhood memories, the challenges of adapting to a new culture, and the role education played in shaping his future.They explore the power of storytelling, the importance of cultural identity, and the rewards and struggles of parenting. Thourn shares his passion for teaching and how he inspires students to embrace lifelong learning while preserving their heritage.Join us for...2025-04-021h 00
Khmer Tree PodcastKhemarey Khoeun (Khem) - First Khmer American Woman Elected into Public OfficeIn 2017, Khem made history as the first Cambodian American woman elected in America as trustee for the village of Skokie, IL, a suburb north of Chicago. Khem shares her incredible journey from being a refugee child to becoming a leader in local government. She reflects on the challenges of growing up in a diverse community, overcoming barriers in education, and the importance of representation in public office.As the Cambodian community approaches its 50-year anniversary in the U.S., Khem calls for a shift from survival to thriving. She discusses the need for accessible government services, community...2025-04-011h 01
Khmer Tree PodcastDr. Teri Kap Tan - Patient Advocate, Founder of S.H.E, Co-Founder of CHPAAIn this episode we sit with Dr. Teri Kap Tan, a Greek Australian whose dedication to education, healthcare, and community engagement has made a profound impact on the Cambodian community in Long Beach. Dr. Tan shares her immigrant journey, the challenges she faced, and how they shaped her passion for helping others.Born in Greece and raised in Australia, Dr. Tan experienced language barriers but excelled academically, becoming valedictorian of her class. Her passion for education and child development led her to study child psychology, laying the foundation for a career focused on supporting immigrant families.2025-04-0153 min
Khmer Tree PodcastCharles Song - Cambodian Community Organizer, Leader, Pioneer, Advocate, Long Beach, CAWe explore the remarkable journey of Charles Song, who fled Cambodia during the Khmer Rouge regime and rebuilt his life in America. From escaping war and surviving refugee camps to embracing a new culture and preserving his heritage, Charles’s story is a testament to resilience, love, and healing. He shares his struggles, the importance of community, and the emotional journey of reconnecting with lost family through DNA testing. This conversation highlights the strength of the Cambodian people, the impact of war on families, and the ongoing efforts to support and uplift the Cambodian community in America. Tune in fo...2025-04-012h 45
Khmer Tree PodcastMonica Salinas - First Khmer American crowned as Miss Long Beach, CAIn this episode we chat with Monica Salinas, the former Miss Long Beach and dedicated community leader, to discuss her inspiring journey. She was the first Cambodian American to be crowned this title in 2013. Monica shares her family's history, the challenges they overcame, and how faith and education played a crucial role in shaping her path.She reflects on her experience as Miss Long Beach and how it opened doors for advocacy and leadership within the Cambodian American community. Monica emphasizes the importance of community engagement, family values, and encouraging Cambodian Americans to step into leadership roles.2025-04-011h 11
Khmer Tree PodcastSotheara Lim - Founder of Khmer Renaissance on Instagram"Keep Walking Koun Khmer" is the mantra of Khmer Renaissance, one of the fastest growing social media accounts on Instagram. In this episode, we chat with Sotheara Lim, the man behind the account. We discuss the importance of cultural identity, community, and the journey of the Khmer people. Sotheara opens up about the generational trauma experienced by the Khmer diaspora and how Khmer Renaissance serves as a platform to reclaim and celebrate Khmer culture.They explore the significance of open conversations within the community, the mantra “Keep Walking Koun Khmer” as a symbol of resilience. Soth...2025-04-011h 06
Khmer Tree PodcastDr. Susan Needham - Prof of Anthropology & Co-author of "Cambodians in Long Beach, CA"In this episode we chat with Dr. Susan Needham at the Historical Society of Long Beach to explore the Cambodian American experience and the rich history of the Cambodian community in Long Beach. As a linguistic anthropologist, Dr. Needham has worked closely with the community since 1988, documenting their struggles, achievements, and cultural evolution.They discuss the archives available at the historical society, the significance of Cambodian Town’s official designation in 2007, and the ongoing efforts to preserve and share Cambodian history. Dr. Needham also reflects on her future plans to make these archives more accessible and shares ad...2025-03-3145 min
Khmer Tree PodcastDr. Christine Su - Prof of South East Asian Studies & Author of "Voices of a New Generation"In this episode we chat with Dr. Christine Su about her powerful journey of self-discovery and cultural reconnection as a Cambodian American. Growing up in New Jersey, Christine’s Cambodian heritage was largely suppressed, but through education and transformative experiences—including her time in Hawaii and her return to Cambodia—she found a deeper connection to her roots.Christine shares how her academic work in Southeast Asian studies, her career in education, and her advocacy for Cambodian representation in American curricula have shaped her mission. Join us for an inspiring conversation about resilience, identity, and the im...2025-03-311h 00
Khmer Tree PodcastGreg Cahill - Writer & Filmmaker of The Golden Voice: Story of Ros Serey SotheaMeet Greg Cahill, creator of the graphic novel The Golden Voice, which tells the story of iconic Cambodian singer Ros Serey Sothea. Greg shares his journey from film school to storytelling through graphic novels, highlighting the deep cultural significance of Cambodian music and Ros Serey Sothea’s enduring legacy.The conversation explores Greg’s research process, his collaboration with the Cambodian community, and the book’s impact as a cultural milestone. Greg also discusses his move to North Carolina, upcoming projects—including horror films and a live musical adaptation—and his vision for the future of Cambodian cultural r...2025-03-311h 08
Khmer Tree PodcastDan Peou - First Khmer-American High School Principal based in Philadelphia, PAIn this episode we chat with Dan Peou, a Cambodian refugee who overcame immense challenges to become the first Khmer-American principal in Philadelphia and in America. Dan shares his journey of adapting to a new culture, the transformative power of education, and the vital role mentorship played in his success.He reflects on his experiences within the school system, the impact of community support, and how his cultural identity shaped his perspective as an educator. Dan emphasizes resilience, personal growth, and the importance of giving back to his community to uplift future generations.Tune in...2025-03-311h 32
Khmer Tree PodcastCaylee So - Filmmaker & Co-Founder of Cambodia Town Film FestivalMeet Caylee So, co-founder of the Cambodia Town Film Festival. Caylee shares her incredible journey from being born in a Thai refugee camp to serving in the Virginia Army National Guard and discovering her passion for filmmaking while deployed in Iraq.She discusses the inspiration behind the Cambodia Town Film Festival and the growth of Cambodian cinema since its founding in 2013. Caylee also offers insights into her current projects, including a documentary and a historical horror film, and reflects on the importance of storytelling in preserving culture.Join us for a conversation on resilience, creativity...2025-03-311h 01
Khmer Tree PodcastCameron Sam - Owner & CEO of Rep Cambodia ApparelRep Cambodia is a global clothing brand based in Long Beach, CA, dedicated to celebrating Cambodian culture and identityIn this episode we chat with Cameron where he shares his journey from humble beginnings to building a global brand, reflecting on the challenges faced by the Cambodian community in Long Beach, including gang violence and cultural clashes.He discusses the evolution of his brand—symbolizing a shift from struggle to pride. Cameron highlights the importance of resilience, community support, and entrepreneurship in empowering the next generation. He also shares his vision for greater unity, collaboration, an...2025-03-3146 min
Khmer Tree PodcastDr. Suely Saro - The First Cambodian American Councilmember in Long Beach, CAIn this episode we chat with Dr. Suely Saro, the first Cambodian American Councilmember in Long Beach, CA. Suely shares her inspiring journey from being born in a refugee camp to breaking barriers in public service. She reflects on the challenges of running for office against a well-known incumbent during the pandemic and the resilience it took to succeed.Suely discusses the importance of self-advocacy, community engagement, and collaboration in building a stronger, more united Cambodian American community. She encourages listeners to embrace their identity, believe in their capabilities, and contribute to positive change.Tune...2025-03-311h 01
Khmer Tree PodcastRicher San - Co-Founder of Cambodia Town, Long Beach, CAIn this episode we sit with Richer San and talk about the significance of Cambodian Town in Long Beach, California, and the journey that led to its establishment. Richer shares his personal story of survival during the Khmer Rouge era, his immigration to America, and the challenges faced by the Cambodian community in rebuilding their lives.The conversation highlights the growth of Cambodia Town, the importance of cultural preservation, and recent initiatives like the Cambodian American education conference and the upcoming Cambodia Town gateway project. Richer emphasizes the need for community involvement, leadership development among youth, and...2025-03-312h 01
Khmer Tree PodcastChad Phuong - "The Cambodian Cowboy" Owner & Operator of Battambong BBQ in Long Beach, CAIn this episode we chat with Chad Phuong, also known as the "Cambodian Cowboy", to discuss his remarkable journey from surviving the Khmer Rouge era to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the culinary world. Chad shares his experiences growing up in a refugee camp, resettling in Long Beach, and witnessing the growth of the Cambodian-American community.Through his passion for food, Chad has built a brand that fuses Cambodian and American culinary traditions, using cooking as a way to preserve and share his heritage. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity, hard work, and community support in achieving...2025-03-311h 18
Khmer Tree PodcastDavy Chou - French Cambodian Filmmaker from Phnom Penh, CambodiaIn this episode we sit with French Cambodian filmmaker Davy Chu to discuss his journey from France to Cambodia and his impact on the film industry. Davy shares insights into his family's history, the Cambodian community in France, and his experiences bringing Khmer stories to life through films like Golden Slumbers, Diamond Island, and Return to Seoul.The conversation explores the evolving landscape of Cambodian cinema, the importance of cultural representation, and the challenges young filmmakers face. Davy highlights the power of storytelling in reclaiming identity, the need for collaboration within the Cambodian artistic community, and his...2025-03-311h 10
Khmer Tree PodcastJoe Ngo - Cambodian American Actor, Writer and Musician, best known for his role in Cambodian Rock BandIn this episode we chat with Joe Ngo, a talented Cambodian American actor, writer and musician best known for his role in Cambodian Rock Band. Joe shares his family's journey as refugees escaping the war in Cambodia in the late 1970's, his upbringing in Southern California, and how he discovered his passion for the arts.Through his work, Joe sheds light on the Khmer community’s history and the significance of representation in the arts. He reflects on his deep-rooted connection to Battambang, the evolution of his character in Cambodian Rock Band, and the play’s impact in t...2025-03-301h 05
Khmer Tree PodcastMona Sang - Owner and Chef of Khmai Cambodian Fine Dining in Chicago, ILChef Mona, owner of Khmai Cuisine Restaurant, shares her inspiring journey of cultural identity, resilience, and the power of food as a storytelling medium. Growing up as a Cambodian immigrant in America, she navigated the challenges of embracing her heritage while pursuing her passion for cooking. In this episode, she opens up about the struggles of running a Cambodian restaurant, the significance of preserving traditional recipes, and the importance of educating others about Khmai Cuisine and culture.Mona’s restaurant is more than just a place to eat—it’s a platform for cultural revival and community connec...2025-03-301h 19
Khmer Tree PodcastVan Tan - Co-Owner of Phnom Penh Noodles in Long Beach, CAVan Tan, co-owner of Penh Noodle Shack, joins us to share the incredible journey of his family’s restaurant, a beloved staple in the Cambodian community for decades. He reflects on his family’s immigration from Cambodia to America, the struggles they faced as refugees, and how their restaurant became more than just a place to eat—it became a sanctuary for the community.Van discusses the evolution of the restaurant, from its humble beginnings to the opening of a second location, and how the menu has grown while staying true to traditional Cambodian flavors. He emphasizes the im...2025-03-301h 10
Love, Listings and LegacyLegacy Beyond 50 Years: A Conversation with Chad Sammeth of KhmerTreeIn this special episode, we're sharing Sophaline's interview with Chad Sammeth, host of the KhmerTree podcast and dedicated advocate for the Cambodian community. As 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of the Cambodian genocide, they discuss what legacy means for the Cambodian diaspora and how to honor the past while building a stronger future. Chad shares his vision for KhmerTree - a platform created to connect Cambodian-Americans through shared stories and experiences. Despite his health challenges, Chad remains committed to this passion project as part of the legacy he wants to leave for the community. The conversation explores how both hosts...2025-02-261h 16