In 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 an inspiring conversation about resilience, community, and the next generation of Cambodian American storytellers.

Takeaways

• Thourn's journey reflects the resilience of immigrant families.
• Education played a crucial role in Thourn's adaptation to American life.
• The importance of community support for refugees is highlighted.
• Thourn emphasizes the value of storytelling in filmmaking.
• Parenting comes with its own set of challenges and rewards.
• Cultural identity shapes personal and professional experiences.
• Thourn's teaching philosophy focuses on inspiring students to excel.
• The significance of maintaining cultural traditions in family life.
• Lifelong learning is essential for personal growth and development.
• Thourn aims to empower his students to become future leaders in the film industry.

In 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 engagement in elections, and breaking barriers for future generations. With her children as her inspiration, Khem is committed to paving the way for others and urges support for her re-election campaign.

Tune in to hear her powerful story of resilience, leadership, and the fight for a stronger Cambodian American presence in government.

Takeaways

• Khemarey Khoeun (Khem) is the first Cambodian American woman elected in Illinois.
• Representation in local government is crucial for diverse communities.
• Khem's journey reflects the resilience of Cambodian Americans.
• Community support plays a vital role in local elections.
• The Cambodian community has a rich history in Chicago since the 1970s.
• Khem emphasizes the importance of accessible government services.
• Adverse childhood experiences shape Khem's perspective as a leader.
• The next 50 years should focus on thriving, not just surviving.
• Kam's children inspire her to break down barriers for future generations.

In 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.

Her involvement with the Cambodian community began in Hawaii, where she worked with refugee resettlement programs, helping families adjust to their new environment. This experience deepened her commitment to working with underserved communities. Later, she and her husband established a pediatric practice in Long Beach, home to one of the largest Cambodian populations in the U.S.

Dr. Tan emphasizes the importance of cultural integration for immigrant families, highlighting language as a key to preserving identity and history. She discusses the challenges of balancing tradition with the need to adapt to a new society and how strong community support systems can make this transition smoother.

Beyond her work in the U.S., Dr. Tan has been involved in global health initiatives, bringing students to Cambodia to work on medical and community development projects. She believes in the power of collaboration among organizations to uplift immigrant communities and create opportunities for future generations.

Her vision for the Cambodian community includes a stable and supportive environment where families can thrive through access to quality education, healthcare, and cultural preservation efforts. She shares insights on resilience, the power of education, and the importance of fostering a sense of belonging for all immigrants.

Tune in to hear Dr. Tan’s inspiring story and learn how community engagement can transform lives.

Founder of Sustainable Health Empowerment - SHE, a 501c3 non-profit committed to fostering sustainable health care by equipping people with knowledge and empowering them to continue self-care under the leadership of local healthcare professionals after our team of volunteers have left the country.

https://www.sheworldhealth.org

Co-Founder of Cambodian Health Professionals Association of America -CHPAA, a non-profit organization financially supported by members and volunteers, as well as by generous professionals, community individuals, and a growing number of business owners and philanthropists.https://chpaa.org

Takeaways

• Dr. Tan's immigrant journey began in Greece, moving to Australia as a child.
• She faced language barriers but excelled academically, becoming valedictorian.
• Her passion for education led her to study child psychology and development.
• Dr. Tan's work with the Cambodian community started in Hawaii during resettlement programs.
• She emphasizes the importance of cultural integration for immigrant families.
• Dr. Tan established a pediatric practice in Long Beach with her husband.
• She has been involved in global health initiatives, taking students to Cambodia.
• Dr. Tan believes in the power of language as a cultural carrier.
• She advocates for community support and collaboration among organizations.
• Her vision for the future includes a stable environment for the next generation of Cambodians.

We 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 for an inspiring discussion on survival, identity, and hope for the future.

Takeaways

• Charles Song's journey from Cambodia to America was filled with challenges and resilience.
• The transition from a war-torn country to a new life in America was not easy.
• Living in refugee camps shaped Charles's understanding of community and survival.
• Cultural identity plays a crucial role in the Cambodian community's adaptation in America.
• Community organizations are vital in supporting immigrants and preserving cultural heritage.
• Charles emphasizes the importance of mental health awareness within the Cambodian community.
• The impact of war on family dynamics is profound and lasting.
• Charles's experiences highlight the resilience of the Cambodian people.
• The evolution of Cambodian Town in Long Beach reflects the community's growth and challenges.
• Charles envisions a future where the Cambodian community continues to thrive and educate younger generations. Resilience is key to overcoming hardships.
• Community support plays a vital role in healing.
• Love and kindness can transform lives.
• Survival often requires difficult choices.
• Forgiveness is important, but we must not forget.
• The journey of reconnecting with family is powerful.
• Sharing stories helps preserve history.
• Every individual has the potential to make a difference.
• Hope can be found even in the darkest times.
• Taking action, like DNA testing, can lead to healing.

In 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.

Join us as Monica shares her personal growth journey, the significance of cherishing cultural heritage, and her vision for the future of her community.

Takeaways

• Monica's journey reflects resilience and determination.
• Community engagement is vital for personal and collective growth.
• Faith played a significant role in Monica's life and decisions.
• Education was a key factor in overcoming her family's challenges.
• Monica's experience as Miss Long Beach opened doors for advocacy.
• Family values and support are central to Monica's life.
• The importance of cherishing cultural heritage and stories.
• Monica encourages Cambodian Americans to take leadership roles.
• Personal growth is a continuous journey influenced by experiences.
• Monica's story is a testament to the power of faith and community.

"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. Sotheara also shares his vision for the future, emphasizing healing, understanding, and the evolution of Khmer identity.

Join us for a powerful discussion on Khmer resilience, the importance of supporting younger generations, and the promise of Khmer excellence in the next 50 years and beyond.

Takeaways

• Khmer Renaissance serves as a platform for cultural connection.
• Generational trauma impacts the Khmer community significantly.
• Cultural identity is shaped by both history and personal experiences.
• The importance of community conversations to address issues.
• Keep walking, keep Khmer is a mantra for resilience.
• High-quality content is essential for cultural representation.
• The younger generation is eager to learn about their heritage.
• Cultural evolution is necessary for growth and healing.
• Understanding and acceptance within the community is crucial.
• The next 50+ years hold promise for Khmer excellence.

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 advice for younger generations on engaging with their heritage and strengthening their community.

Join us for a compelling conversation on history, identity, and the importance of cultural preservation.

Takeaways

• The Historical Society of Long Beach archives Cambodian American history.
• Dr. Susan Needham has been involved with the Cambodian community since 1988.
• Cambodia has a rich history that spans over 2000 years.
• The Cambodian community in Long Beach faced significant challenges in the 80s and 90s.
• Cambodian Town was officially designated in 2007, marking a cultural milestone.
• The importance of preserving Cambodian history and culture is emphasized.
• Dr. Needham plans to retire and focus on making archives accessible.
• Community involvement is crucial for cultural preservation and growth.
• The younger generation is encouraged to learn about their heritage.
• Investment in Cambodian Town is needed to revitalize the community.

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 importance of preserving Cambodian heritage for future generations.

Takeaways:

• Christine's journey reflects the struggle of many Cambodian Americans in reconnecting with their heritage.
• Her father's trauma influenced her upbringing and understanding of Cambodian culture.
• Education played a crucial role in Christine's exploration of her identity.
• The importance of community support in embracing one's cultural background.
• Christine's experiences in Hawaii were pivotal in her cultural awakening.
• The significance of learning the Khmer language for personal connection.
• Christine's work aims to create a Cambodian American model curriculum for schools.
• The need for representation and understanding of Cambodian history in American education.
• Christine's vision includes fostering pride in Cambodian identity among youth.
• The Reconnecting Cambodia project aims to build a DNA database to help individuals find their roots.

Meet 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 representation.

Join us for an engaging discussion on music, storytelling, and preserving Cambodian history through art.

Takeaways

• Greg's journey began with a passion for filmmaking.
• The Golden Voice graphic novel highlights Cambodian music history.
• Ros Serey Sothea's music embodies the human spirit.
• The integration of music in the graphic novel enhances the storytelling.
• Greg's research involved connecting with the Cambodian community.
• The book launch was a significant cultural event.
• Relocating to North Carolina has brought new opportunities for Greg.
• Future projects include horror films and a live musical adaptation.
• The Cambodian community's resilience is inspiring.
• The next generation of Cambodians is poised to make a cultural impact.

In 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 for an inspiring conversation about perseverance, leadership, and the power of education in changing lives.

Takeaways

• Dan Peou's journey from Cambodia to America highlights the immigrant experience.
• Education played a crucial role in Dan's life and career.
• Mentorship was vital in Dan's development as an educator.
• Community support helped Dan navigate challenges in his early years.
• Dan emphasizes the importance of being approachable as a teacher.
• Cultural identity shaped Dan's perspective on education.
• Resilience is key to overcoming obstacles in life.
• Dan's story reflects the power of personal growth and determination.
• The role of family and community is essential in achieving success.
• Dan's aspirations include giving back to his community and supporting future generations.