Kaitlyn Mady, Cambodian community leadership, education advocacy, Harvard University experience, youth empowerment initiatives, storytelling for cultural preservation, public speaking engagement, promotion of Khmer culture and traditions, community involvement and volunteerism, mentorship for young leaders, cross-generational dialogue, representation of Cambodian voices, future aspirations for the Cambodian-American diaspora.

In this heartfelt and engaging episode, host Chad sits down with Chhaya Tan, a Cambodian-American entrepreneur, storyteller, and community advocate, to explore his powerful journey from Cambodia to the United States—and the cultural legacy he’s building along the way. Chhaya shares vivid memories of his early life, from surviving the aftermath of the Khmer Rouge to growing up in the heart of Long Beach, California, one of the largest Cambodian communities outside of Southeast Asia.

As he reflects on his upbringing, Chhaya discusses the challenges of identity formation in a multicultural environment. He speaks candidly about the impact of colorism and anti-Blackness within and beyond the Asian community, particularly as a dark-skinned Cambodian man. Through his own lived experience, he underscores the urgent need for representation that reflects the diversity within Asian America, especially for Southeast Asians who are often overlooked in broader narratives.

Chhaya also shares the inspiring story of his move to Tempe, Arizona, where he planted new roots by launching a family-owned donut shop. What started as a business venture became a deeper mission: a way to preserve his family’s legacy, provide for the community, and create space for cultural connection. He discusses the grit and heart it takes to be a small business owner, and how entrepreneurship became a form of empowerment—not just economically, but also personally and culturally.

Beyond his work in the donut shop, Chhaya is the founder of the Arizona Asians Facebook group, a fast-growing online community that has become a hub for Asian Americans across the state. The group serves as a vital space for connection, support, celebration, and visibility—especially for those whose stories are often left out of the mainstream. Chhaya speaks about his passion for building inclusive platforms that uplift others, foster intergenerational exchange, and provide young people with resources, mentorship, and representation.

Throughout the episode, Chad and Chhaya reflect on their shared Cambodian roots and the evolving journey of the Cambodian-American diaspora. They touch on themes of healing from historical trauma, rediscovering pride in cultural heritage, and dreaming boldly for the future—both in America and in Cambodia.

At its core, this episode is a moving tribute to resilience, authenticity, and the power of community. Chhaya’s story reminds us that honoring where we come from is the first step toward building something new—and that even in the quiet work of everyday life, we can be agents of transformation.

In this deeply moving and thought-provoking episode, host Chad sits down with Kalean Ung Breen, a gifted Cambodian-American artist, performer, and educator based in Los Angeles. Known for her emotionally resonant work that blends storytelling, memory, and performance, Kalean shares the powerful journey that has shaped her as an artist—one rooted in her family’s history, the enduring legacy of the Khmer Rouge, and the complexities of growing up in the Cambodian-American diaspora.

Kalean opens up about how the silence around trauma in her family pushed her toward creative expression as a form of healing and discovery. Drawing from her lived experience as the daughter of Cambodian refugees, her artistic work explores the deep emotional layers of intergenerational trauma, identity, and cultural loss. She reflects on her early struggles to find belonging, and how embracing her heritage through art became a personal and political act of reclamation.

The episode delves into her acclaimed project, “Letters from Home,” a multimedia and performance-based collaboration with her father, composer Chinary Ung. The work beautifully weaves music, personal letters, and historical narrative to explore her family’s survival during the Cambodian genocide and their efforts to rebuild a life in America. Kalean speaks about the vulnerability and healing that emerged through working with her father—bridging emotional distances and uncovering unspoken truths.

Beyond her personal story, Kalean passionately discusses the need for greater visibility, investment, and representation of Cambodian voices in the arts. She emphasizes how storytelling—especially through theater, music, and performance—serves not only as a powerful outlet for individual healing, but as a means of cultural preservation and communal resilience.

Throughout the conversation, key themes emerge: the transformative power of art, the urgent need to support Cambodian-American narratives, and the hope for a future where Khmer artists have the space and resources to thrive. Kalean reminds us that art is not only about expression—it’s about survival, remembrance, and creating space for others to feel seen.

This episode is a heartfelt tribute to the strength of the Cambodian community, the importance of intergenerational dialogue, and the healing that can emerge when we dare to tell our stories.

In this powerful and heartfelt episode, Chad sits down with Mea Lath, a Cambodian-American dancer, instructor, and entrepreneur, to explore her remarkable journey of resilience, cultural pride, and personal growth. Born into a refugee family and raised in Long Beach, California, Mea reflects on the challenges of growing up between two worlds—navigating the expectations of her Cambodian heritage while forging her identity in American society.

Mea shares how her connection to Cambodian classical and folk dance became a transformative force in her life. Dance not only offered her a sense of belonging but also became a healing outlet and a bridge to her cultural roots. Through years of devotion and artistry, Mea has become a prominent figure in the Cambodian dance community—performing, teaching, and mentoring young dancers who are eager to reconnect with their heritage.

Beyond the stage, Mea’s entrepreneurial spirit shines as she talks about her newest venture: opening a community-centered café. More than a business, the café is envisioned as a cultural and creative space where people can gather, celebrate Khmer traditions, and engage in meaningful dialogue. Her goal is to build a place that nourishes both body and soul while supporting the local Cambodian-American community.

The conversation also highlights Mea’s growing advocacy for financial literacy and economic empowerment. She candidly discusses her own journey with money management and the importance of equipping her community—especially youth and women—with the tools to achieve financial independence and long-term security.

Throughout the episode, Mea emphasizes the importance of self-care, cultural preservation, and collective healing. She urges the Cambodian-American community to come together, support one another, and embrace unity as they navigate the future. Her story is a moving reminder of the strength found in heritage, the power of art, and the courage to lead with authenticity.

Sovanna Pouv - From East Coast to West Coast, There Will Always Be Community Love

In this episode, host Chad speaks with Neardey Trinh, a Cambodian immigrant and entrepreneur based in Virginia. Neardey shares her journey from Cambodia to America, her experiences growing up in a war-torn country, and the challenges of balancing family life with her successful cookie business, Little Lana's Cookies. The conversation delves into her passion for baking, the unique flavors she creates, and her vision for the future of her business. Neardey also reflects on the importance of teaching her children about their Cambodian heritage and the resilience of their community.

Takeaways

Neardey Trinh is a Cambodian immigrant who moved to the U.S. in 1980.

She has a full-time job, runs a cookie business, and is a mother of four.

Her cookie business, Little Lana's Cookies, started from a passion for baking.

Neardey emphasizes the importance of family and sports in her life.

She creates unique cookie flavors, including Cambodian-inspired ones.

The name 'Little Lana' is inspired by her youngest daughter.

Neardey's cookies are gluten-free and made with high-quality ingredients.

She aims to teach her children about their Cambodian roots and heritage.

Neardey plans to expand her cookie business into larger markets by 2025.

She believes in the importance of community support and resilience.

In this episode, Chad interviews Rob Carlton, a visual anthropologist and documentary filmmaker, who shares his journey into Cambodian culture and the importance of storytelling through film. They discuss Rob's experiences living in Cambodia, his family life, and his current projects that focus on community involvement and the preservation of Cambodian history. The conversation also touches on the future of Cambodian culture, the significance of oral histories, and the role of the next generation in shaping a vibrant cultural narrative.

Takeaways

Rob Carlton is a visual anthropologist and documentary filmmaker.

He emphasizes the importance of culture over story in visual anthropology.

Rob's journey into Cambodian culture began with music and art.

He has a deep connection to the Cambodian community through his work and family.

Rob's documentary, 'From the Heart of Brahma,' focuses on social justice and dance.

He highlights the collaborative nature of his filmmaking process.

Rob lived in Cambodia for two years, immersing himself in the culture.

He is currently involved in projects that address Asian hate and community empowerment.

Rob believes in the importance of preserving oral histories for future generations.

He envisions a future where Cambodian culture is celebrated beyond its tragic history.

In this powerful and deeply moving episode, host Chad sits down with Li-Da Kruger, a Cambodian adoptee who was raised in England after being separated from her birth family during the upheaval of the Cambodian Civil War and genocide. Li-Da shares her compelling journey of self-discovery, exploring themes of cultural identity, belonging, and the lasting impact of historical trauma on the Cambodian diaspora.

Growing up in a predominantly white environment in the UK, Li-Da reflects on the emotional complexities of being disconnected from her roots—navigating life as a Cambodian child in a British world, while carrying unanswered questions about her past. Her quest for identity led her to Cambodia as an adult, where she began a deeply personal journey to understand where she came from and what was lost.

Through her work as a documentary filmmaker, Li-Da has turned her personal story into a vehicle for truth and healing—not only for herself but for others affected by war and displacement. She shares insights from her film projects, revealing the emotional weight of reconnection, the search for family, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of tragedy.

Li-Da also introduces her nonprofit organization, Reconnecting Cambodia, which uses DNA testing to help Cambodian adoptees and families separated by war and adoption reunite with lost relatives. Her work has become a beacon of hope for those seeking answers and closure after decades of silence.

This episode is a heartfelt exploration of identity, memory, and justice. It highlights the enduring strength of the Cambodian people and the importance of community, healing, and honoring the past while building a hopeful future for the next generation.

In this compelling episode, host Chad sits down with Laura Ouk, a dynamic educator, community advocate, and proud daughter of Cambodian refugees. Laura shares her powerful journey as a first-generation Cambodian American navigating the intersection of identity, heritage, and social impact in the heart of Chicago. With honesty and passion, she recounts her path from growing up in a bicultural household—straddling the values of her family’s past and the demands of American society—to becoming a powerful voice for education reform and cultural preservation.

Laura opens up about the complex process of reconnecting with her Cambodian roots, a journey that involved both personal introspection and community engagement. Like many children of survivors, she grew up with fragmented pieces of her cultural story, shaped by silence, trauma, and resilience. As she matured, she began to seek out those missing connections—learning the Khmer language, honoring her family's stories, and embracing the beauty and strength of her heritage.

A central focus of the conversation is the groundbreaking TEAACH Act (Teaching Equitable Asian American Community History), which Laura passionately supports. She explains how this landmark legislation, now law in Illinois, requires public schools to include Asian American history in their curricula. For Laura, this isn’t just about textbooks—it’s about visibility, healing, and justice. She discusses how inclusive education can help dismantle stereotypes, foster cross-cultural understanding, and empower young Asian American students—especially Cambodian youth—who often feel unseen in traditional school systems.

Laura also reflects on the broader state of the Cambodian community in Chicago, acknowledging both its struggles and its incredible potential. She speaks candidly about the intergenerational trauma carried by many refugee families, and how that trauma often goes unspoken yet profoundly shapes behavior, mental health, and opportunities. At the same time, she emphasizes the community’s strength, creativity, and determination to move forward—not just surviving, but thriving.

Through her work in education and grassroots organizing, Laura advocates for intentional spaces where Cambodian voices are not only heard but centered—especially when it comes to decisions that affect the future of the community. She highlights the importance of youth leadership, cultural programming, and collaboration between generations as key to rebuilding trust and fostering empowerment.

As the conversation unfolds, Laura paints a hopeful vision for the future—one where Cambodian Americans are recognized not just for their past suffering, but for their ongoing contributions to American society. A future where schools reflect the diversity of the students they serve, and where healing is a collective journey made possible through education, storytelling, and solidarity.

This episode is both a personal narrative and a broader call to action—a reminder that reclaiming culture and history is a revolutionary act. Laura Ouk’s story is an inspiring testament to the power of education, the resilience of the Cambodian spirit, and the importance of community-led change.

In this episode, host Chad reconnects with his long-time friend Paul Sum, who shares his remarkable journey from Cambodia to California. Paul recounts his early life during the Khmer Rouge, the struggles of his family in refugee camps, and their eventual resettlement in Long Beach. The conversation explores the importance of community, cultural heritage, and the role of the church in shaping their identities. Paul reflects on the changes in Long Beach over the years, his school experiences, and the challenges of growing up in a diverse urban environment. He also discusses his family life, the significance of dance in preserving Cambodian culture, and the lessons learned from personal loss and growth. In this conversation, Sophal Sum shares his transformative journey from a troubled youth facing incarceration to becoming a dedicated father and community member. He reflects on the lessons learned during his time in military prison, the challenges of raising daughters as a single father, and the impact of his late wife's battle with lupus. Sophal emphasizes the importance of community, personal growth, and the need for unity within the Cambodian community. He shares his vision for the future, focusing on family, resilience, and the hope for a more connected and supportive community.

takeaways

• Paul's journey reflects the resilience of Cambodian immigrants.
• The importance of community support in overcoming adversity.
• Cultural heritage plays a vital role in identity formation.
• Survival stories from the Khmer Rouge era are crucial to understanding history.
• The church provided a safe haven for youth in Long Beach.
• Socialization outside the home is essential for children's development.
• Family traditions, like dance, help preserve cultural identity.
• Navigating challenges in urban environments requires street smarts.
• The evolution of Long Beach reflects broader societal changes.
• Personal growth often stems from overcoming difficult experiences. They put me in handcuffs, brought me to the airport in handcuffs.
• I can't be the type of person that's going to get caught up.
• I'm glad that I went through that.
• Raising two daughters as a single father is not fun.
• You learn as you go. Mistakes are going to be made.
• I only want the best for you.
• There's always a way to navigate through the problems.
• I would love to have a Cambodian mayor in Long Beach.
• You take a piece of that person, whether it's good or bad.
• You need that mental break.