Boden Him - Master of Creatives Explains All

Don King Pin - Program Manager at United Cambodian Community

Kreng Krich - Former Youth Pastor Explains All

Sokea Peou - Childhood Friend Opens Up About Cancer & Family

In 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 beginning of a new chapter filled with both opportunity and adversity. Arriving in America as a young girl, she faced the daunting task of learning a new language, navigating a foreign culture, and overcoming the trauma of her past. Through determination, faith, and the support of a loving community, Dr. Lee began to rebuild her life.

Education played a pivotal role in her transformation. Inspired by the kindness and care of the doctors she encountered, she pursued a career in medicine—despite the many obstacles in her path. She eventually became a family medicine physician, driven by a deep desire to give back to those in need. In her practice, Dr. Lee is known for her compassion, cultural sensitivity, and unwavering dedication to her patients, many of whom come from underserved and immigrant backgrounds.

Beyond her work in medicine, Dr. Lee also serves as a pastor, drawing on her spiritual journey to offer hope and healing to others. Her faith, which sustained her through years of hardship, continues to guide her work today. Whether she is leading a congregation, mentoring youth, or providing medical care, Dr. Lee approaches every aspect of her life with humility, empathy, and a deep sense of purpose.

Throughout the conversation, Dr. Lee emphasizes the importance of cultural preservation and community empowerment. She speaks passionately about the need to support the next generation of Cambodian Americans, encouraging them to embrace their heritage while striving for excellence in education and leadership. For Dr. Lee, storytelling is not only a means of healing, but also a way to honor those who were lost and to ensure that history is never forgotten.

This episode is more than just a personal narrative—it’s a testament to the strength of the human spirit. Dr. Christina Lee’s story reminds us that even in the face of profound loss and adversity, hope can flourish. Her life’s work as a physician, pastor, and community advocate reflects a commitment to service, healing, and building a better future for all.

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.

In 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, and building a thriving future for the Khmer community.

Takeaways

• Sophaline identifies as a 1.5 generation Cambodian American.
• Her family fled Cambodia during the Khmer Rouge regime.
• Stockton has a significant Cambodian community due to agricultural opportunities.
• Cultural identity played a crucial role in her upbringing.
• Education was a priority for her family despite financial struggles.
• Sophaline was involved in her high school student club, promoting Cambodian culture.
• She faced challenges navigating adolescence in a rough environment.
• Sophaline changed her major from biology to Asian American studies.

• Family support is crucial for personal growth.
• Investing in education can lead to new opportunities.
• Cultural identity plays a significant role in one's journey.
• Professional experiences abroad can shape career paths.
• Community engagement is essential for cultural revival.
• The Khmer community is evolving and embracing its heritage.
• Healing from past traumas is vital for future generations.
• Unity within the community can break the cycle of division.
• Language and cultural fluency enhance professional relationships.
• The next generation has the potential to thrive.

In 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 heritage, resilience, and the power of community.

Takeaways

• Tony Te is a dedicated community member and entrepreneur.
• He fled Cambodia after the killing fields and resettled in the U.S.
• Long Beach became a hub for Cambodian immigrants in the 80s.
• Tony emphasizes the importance of community events like the Cambodian New Year celebration.
• He has been involved in various community initiatives and events.
• Bridging the generational gap is crucial for preserving Cambodian culture.
• Tony encourages the youth to connect with their parents' stories.
• The Cambodian community has a rich history that needs to be documented.
• Real estate is a key focus for Tony, helping families achieve homeownership.
• Community engagement is a labor of love for Tony and many others.

In 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, and fostering a future of strength and support for the Cambodian community.

Takeaways

• Dr. Kara Uy-Has Has emphasizes the importance of storytelling in healing.
• Resilience is a key theme in the Cambodian community's journey.
• Seeking help for mental health is a sign of strength.
• Cultural heritage plays a vital role in community identity.
• Equitable opportunities are essential for youth success.
• Community support is crucial for individual healing.
• Dr. Uy-Has advocates for mental health awareness and resources.
• The journey from surviving to thriving is possible.
• Intergenerational trauma affects many in the Cambodian community.
• Unity and collective effort are necessary for future growth.

In 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 the healing journey.

Tune in for a powerful conversation on resilience, self-care, and breaking cycles of trauma within the Khmer community.

Takeaways

• Mao Beckett is an EMDR certified somatic therapist.
• Trauma can be intergenerational and affects our community deeply.
• Rest and play are radical acts of self-care.
• Understanding our cultural roots is essential for healing.
• EMDR therapy helps process unresolved trauma.
• The Khmer community faces unique challenges in mental health.
• Collective care is vital for community healing.
• Mental health issues are often rooted in systemic oppression.
• Healing is a journey that requires community support.
• The past influences our present and future experiences.




Contacts:

• Website: https://www.resetandresilientwellness.com/
• Spotify: Hold Up, Wait A Minute Podcast!
• https://open.spotify.com/show/0yC4yT4IJx90SecgGIBYrp
• https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/mao-beckett-boston-ma/872286