KhmerTalk: S1-E14

Frames of Freedom

How Arts First Is Building Creative Futures in the Heart of Tacoma

Chhay Mam is the Artistic Director of Arts First, a Tacoma-based nonprofit dedicated to making the arts radically accessible — free of charge, open to everyone. A Cambodian American of remarkable breadth, Chhay is a modern-day Renaissance artist: a painter, filmmaker, performer, and educator who brings together visual arts, filmmaking, mathematics, and the sciences to create work that is as intellectually alive as it is emotionally resonant.

Born with an adventurer's spirit, Chhay has traveled the world and made the Pacific Northwest his home. He is an avid fly fisherman — each cast, like each canvas, a meditation on precision and patience. The discipline he applies to mastering diverse fields — from fine art to advanced mathematics — flows directly into the interdisciplinary programs he has built at Arts First.

Under Chhay's artistic leadership, Arts First has grown from a single summer filmmaking camp in 2019 into a multi-program organization offering afterschool filmmaking clubs, weekly dance classes, open studio sessions for adults, and a dedicated AF Studio space in Tacoma. Arts First has partnered with the YMCA, Tacoma Create, Greentrike, the Tacoma Pierce County Health Department, and the Greater Tacoma Community Foundation — reaching youth and families across Pierce County.

Chhay believes art is not a luxury. It is a language — one every child deserves to speak.

KhmerTalk Host:

Srey KrayKhmerTalk Special Guest:Chhay MamSet Location:Arts First: 8218 Pacific Ave #7, Tacoma, WA 98408

Music By:Ryan O'Neal - Music at http://www.slipperylee.comSerey Im - RoneatExecutive Producer:Chenda OuchSrey KrayMichael-Te ChiengExecutive Director:Michael-Te Chieng
On-Set Director:Chhay Mam

Social Media Director:Zakiya RobinsonKhmerTalk Board Member:Chenda OuchPhally SoeungNek Kru Darachan RosHak-Ry SreyJenda KongSrey KrayOrn PhinRady Mey OumSamuel DanhKeo ChhimMichael-Te Chieng

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KhmerTalk: S1-E13Lets Talk with Nek Kru Darachan Ros: About Chbab Srey (Khmer Women's Etiquette) Part-1In this episode, we sit down with Nek Kru Darachan Ros — educator, cultural leader, and classical dance instructor — for a close look at Khmer women’s etiquette, known in our tradition as the Chbap Srey.Passed down through generations and once taught in classrooms across Cambodia, the Chbab Srey is a set of verses guiding how a Khmer woman is taught to speak, move, carry herself, and honor her family and elders. Nek Kru Darachan walks us through it — its teachings, its meaning, and the values behind each rule — sharing the wisdom she learned and preserved over a lifetime of teaching and cultural leadership. In this episode, we discuss:* What Khmer lady etiquette (the Chbab Srey) is and where it comes from* The rules and teachings within it* The values behind them — respect, humility, and grace* How the Chbab Srey was taught and passed down* Why these teachings still matter to Khmer families todayIf this conversation speaks to you, please like, share, and subscribe to KhmerTalk to help amplify Khmer voices around the world. And Let's talk!#KhmerTalk #KhmerLadyEtiquette #ChbabSrey #KhmerCulture #CambodianStories #KhmerCommunity #CambodianAmerican #KhmerWomen #CulturalPreservation #KhmerTradition #KhmerYouthKhmerTalk Host:Srey KrayKhmerTalk Special Guest:Nek Kru Darachan RosSet Designer:Srey KrayOrn PhinMichael-Te ChiengMusic By:Ryan O'Neal - Music at http://www.slipperylee.comSerey Im - RoneatExecutive Producer:Chenda OuchSrey KrayMichael-Te ChiengExecutive Director:Michael-Te ChiengAssistant Director:Orn PhinSocial Media Director:Zakiya RobinsonKhmerTalk Board Member:Chenda OuchPhally SoeungNek Kru Darachan RosHak-Ry SreyJenda KongSrey KrayOrn PhinRady Mey OumSamuel DanhKeo ChhimMichael-Te ChiengRSS Feed: https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=channel_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqa3VwTlJmaktKdi1YSmZ6WDNYYTViQVF0b0FzQXxBQ3Jtc0tuV2dOejdTaDJYUDZSQllLeFJEYVN4MVRGSGM5dnRKNGR5RE93ZjRadHNfSmJ2ZURtVk1Lak44QzlOOGI0ZEJjaUVZMVZscXVCZk1TNnR2YUR2Z0dOUjB3WVRPMXJrOHEzamtoUXBpVkIyeDdWS2ZCSQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Frss.com%2Fpodcasts%2FkhmertalkSpotify: https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=channel_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbWJGTk5LeVczejVHUnVObEdudjVGX2VuZEhqd3xBQ3Jtc0tsUGh2S3Jfa3RxUTZRQ1E2cXhzVzQ3SHZVaGdNOHpHVXk5S3dKRl92M3RvUGRHdl9WSDlvUUo1dkg5b2o0ZkNxeW9IaHRidVRDQlRlT3Q4djc1ZDVHMEVvVkJTNkxsWkMzM2kzT3NaREhkb0RYMUFBVQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Fopen.spotify.com%2Fshow%2F77IaPRDSqB8PYWmbuxrtLKApple Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=channel_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbEptMTdZM05LSFJwWEhqZW13c3o5dlVyOFFUUXxBQ3Jtc0tsOFpDb0F3M25fUGI0Uk90TU15OG5pMzhQczdvbmdOaTE5OG5NaUFMQU00UVdaN1Q5bnA4cFkyd3JmbDNESnBnN0ZJWE5ydzhYckdZLVZSeFp5NEN2N1pNTlJid3k4b1JuMUU3VllHWlhnMGl2eERaYw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fpodcasts.apple.com%2Fus%2Fpodcast%2Fkhmertalk%2Fid1876347349https://www.iheart.com/https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-khmertalk-323766682https://www.pandora.com/podcast/khmertalk/PC:1001114024?part=ug-desktop&corr=150304341176107642

KhmerTalk: S1-E12Patrick Kdep is a Cambodian-American artist, fashion designer, and founder of Patrick Kdep LLC. A former refugee, Patrick and his family fled war and political oppression, living through four refugee camps in Thailand and one year in the Philippines before resettling in the United States in 1987. Arriving with limited English, he grew up in Tacoma, Washington, later earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Washington in 1997. For more than 26 years, Patrick has served the community as a social worker with Washington State’s Department of Home and Community Services, supporting aging and disability populations. Alongside his public service career, Patrick pursued his passion for art and design—launching his fashion and accessories brand Patrick Kdep in 2022. His work features one-of-a-kind and limited-edition silk garments, handbags, jewelry, and handmade accessories, blending traditional Khmer influences with modern design. In 2024, Patrick showcased his collections at multiple fashion shows including Khmer New Year and Khmer Cultural Celebration events, as well as a regional showcase in Portland, Oregon. In 2025, he transformed his home garage into a private creative studio, continuing to grow his brand through community support and word-of-mouth.KhmerTalk Host:Srey KrayKhmerTalk Special Guest:Patrick KdepSet Designer:Srey KrayOrn PhinMichael-Te ChiengMusic By:Ryan O'Neal - Music at http://www.slipperylee.comSerey Im - RoneatExecutive Producer:Chenda OuchSrey KrayMichael-Te ChiengExecutive Director:Michael-Te ChiengSocial Media Director:Zakiya RobinsonKhmerTalk Board Member:Chenda OuchPhally SoeungNek Kru Darachan RosHak-Ry SreyJenda KongSrey KrayOrn PhinRady Mey OumSamuel DanhKeo ChhimMichael-Te Chienghttps://patrickkdep.com/RSS Feed: https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=channel_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqa3VwTlJmaktKdi1YSmZ6WDNYYTViQVF0b0FzQXxBQ3Jtc0tuV2dOejdTaDJYUDZSQllLeFJEYVN4MVRGSGM5dnRKNGR5RE93ZjRadHNfSmJ2ZURtVk1Lak44QzlOOGI0ZEJjaUVZMVZscXVCZk1TNnR2YUR2Z0dOUjB3WVRPMXJrOHEzamtoUXBpVkIyeDdWS2ZCSQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Frss.com%2Fpodcasts%2FkhmertalkSpotify: https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=channel_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbWJGTk5LeVczejVHUnVObEdudjVGX2VuZEhqd3xBQ3Jtc0tsUGh2S3Jfa3RxUTZRQ1E2cXhzVzQ3SHZVaGdNOHpHVXk5S3dKRl92M3RvUGRHdl9WSDlvUUo1dkg5b2o0ZkNxeW9IaHRidVRDQlRlT3Q4djc1ZDVHMEVvVkJTNkxsWkMzM2kzT3NaREhkb0RYMUFBVQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Fopen.spotify.com%2Fshow%2F77IaPRDSqB8PYWmbuxrtLKApple Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=channel_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbEptMTdZM05LSFJwWEhqZW13c3o5dlVyOFFUUXxBQ3Jtc0tsOFpDb0F3M25fUGI0Uk90TU15OG5pMzhQczdvbmdOaTE5OG5NaUFMQU00UVdaN1Q5bnA4cFkyd3JmbDNESnBnN0ZJWE5ydzhYckdZLVZSeFp5NEN2N1pNTlJid3k4b1JuMUU3VllHWlhnMGl2eERaYw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fpodcasts.apple.com%2Fus%2Fpodcast%2Fkhmertalk%2Fid1876347349iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-khmertalk-323766682

KhmerTalk: S1-E11Chace Hunter is a Khmer Rouge immigrant, community advocate, and nonprofit leader withmore than 15 years of experience serving vulnerable and marginalized communities. Hecurrently serves as the Executive Director of AHAT Homecare in Tacoma, Washington,where he leads programs that provide housing and essential medical services to peopleliving with HIV.Chace’s work is rooted in equity, compassion, and lived experience. His career spans publichealth, case management, HIV prevention, and community engagement, includingleadership roles with Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department and Pierce County HumanServices. He has been recognized for his commitment to service, including receiving theDiamond Hall of Fame Award from Tacoma Pride in 2021.As a gay Khmer man navigating intersectional identities, Chace brings an honest andthoughtful perspective on topics often considered taboo in Khmer culture—such assexuality, identity, and health. Through his work and personal journey, he continues toadvocate for dignity, visibility, and healing within the Khmer community and beyond.KhmerTalk Host:Srey KrayKhmerTalk Special Guest:Chace HunterSet Designer:Srey KrayOrn PhinMichael-Te ChiengMusic By:Ryan O'Neal - Music at http://www.slipperylee.comSerey Im - RoneatExecutive Producer:Chenda OuchSrey KrayMichael-Te ChiengExecutive Director:Michael-Te ChiengAssistant Director:Phally SoeungSocial Media Director:Zakiya RobinsonKhmerTalk Board Member:Chenda OuchPhally SoeungNek Kru Darachan RosHak-Ry SreyJenda KongSrey KrayOrn PhinRady Mey OumSamuel DanhKeo ChhimMichael-Te Chieng

KhmerTalk: S1-E10Chantha Banks was born and raised in Battambang, Cambodia. Survival shaped her life from an early age. During the Khmer Rouge regime, she was separated from her parents for nearly a year, and she and her older sister were forced to become child soldiers. In that time, fear became familiar—but so did resilience. Survival was not a choice; it was a necessity.Those experiences gave her a survivor’s mindset. She gained determination, adaptability, and an unwavering will to persevere, no matter the circumstances. That mindset carried her across continents and led to a lifelong commitment to service. She devoted more than 27 years to Federal Law Enforcement, including work with the Federal Reserve (a banking financial institution) and the United States Secret Service as a uniformed Federal Law Enforcement officer.After retiring, she allowed herself two years to rest, reset, and heal. But because service is at the core of who she is, she returned to the field as a patrol Sergeant in Federal Law Enforcement with the United States Department of Defense/Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). She continues to protect and serve others. For over 15 years, she has also served as a recruiter and mentor, guiding and supporting those stepping into federal law enforcement.Mentorship became her calling; she knew firsthand the power of having someone believe in her when the path seems impossible. Building on these experiences, her mission today is deeply personal. She is committed to inspiring and empowering women worldwide to pursue careers in male-dominated fields (especially within the Khmer community). The journey is not easy—but with the right support, mentorship, and inner strength, it is possible. If her story proves anything, it is this: our past does not define our limits. Even in the darkest moments, courage can grow. With it comes the power to rise, lead, and thrive. She encourages us to take the first step—support one another, share your story, or reach for that opportunity. Together, we can change the future.Chantha’s mission is to inspire, mentor, and empower women, especially those from backgrounds of hardship, trauma, or underrepresentation. She aims to help others pursue careers in male-dominated fields with confidence and resilience. As a war survivor and lifelong federal law enforcement professional, Chantha shows that the past does not define potential. Through mentorship, leadership, and lived experience, she strives to create paths where women are supported so that they never have to walk alone. The journey is hard, but with guidance and belief, it is possible.KhmerTalk Host:Srey KrayKhmerTalk Special Guest:Chantha BanksSet Designer:Srey KrayOrn PhinMichael-Te ChiengMusic By:Ryan O'Neal - Music at http://www.slipperylee.comSerey Im - RoneatExecutive Producer:Chenda OuchSrey KrayMichael-Te ChiengExecutive Director:Michael-Te ChiengDirector:Orn PhinSocial Media Director:Zakiya RobinsonKhmerTalk Board Member:Chenda OuchPhally SoeungNek Kru Darachan RosHak-Ry SreyJenda KongSrey KrayOrn PhinRady Mey OumSamuel DanhKeo ChhimMichael-Te Chieng

KhmerTalk: S1-E09

KhmerTalk: S1-E09Welcome to KhmerTalk—where voices don’t just speak, they resonate.On February 28, 2026, the Asia Pacific Cultural Center hosted its Lunar New Year Celebration at the Tacoma Dome—bringing together over 40 Asian and Pacific Islander communities. This year, Cambodia proudly took the spotlight as the featured country, showcasing the richness of Khmer culture through performance, food, art, and tradition.It was a powerful and emotional moment for the Khmer community—seeing our culture honored on such a large stage, with strong support and turnout from across communities.KhmerTalk was there on the ground, conducting field interviews with volunteers, organizers, performers, and attendees—capturing authentic voices and real experiences from the event.This episode is more than a recap—it’s a reflection of identity, unity, and the importance of preserving our stories for future generations.👉 Let’s Talk.🌐 https://www.asiapacificculturalcenter.org/🎥 https://youtu.be/WhxE3BRk--s?si=t0eWXwHErVg2N0fTPinned CommentThank you to everyone who made this event so special 🙏From organizers and volunteers to performers and guests—this was a powerful moment for our Khmer community. We’re honored to help capture and preserve these voices.👉 What was your favorite part of the event?👉 If you were there, share your experience below!Let’s continue to celebrate and uplift our culture together.Set location: Tacoma Dome Exhibition CenterMusic By:Ryan O'Neal - Music at http://www.slipperylee.comSerey Im - RoneatExecutive Producer:Chenda OuchSrey KrayMichael-Te ChiengExecutive Director:Michael-Te ChiengAssistant Director:Orn PhinPhally SoeungSocial Media Director:Zakiya RobinsonKhmerTalk Board Member:Chenda OuchPhally SoeungNek Kru Darachan RosHak-Ry SreyJenda KongSrey KrayOrn PhinRady Mey OumSamuel DanhKeo ChhimMichael-Te Chieng

KhmerTalk: S1-E08

In this episode, we talk with Chanjolee “Joe” Bushnell the Deputy Mayor for the City of Tacoma, Washington and the first Cambodian-American elected to the Tacoma City Council, representing District 5 since November 2021. A lifelong Tacoma resident and graduate of Stadium High School, Joe continued his education at The Evergreen State College with a focus on political science and economics. Before entering public office, Joe served more than a decade in the United States Marine Corps, working in ammunition logistics. His military service shaped his leadership style, emphasizing accountability, teamwork, and public responsibility. In addition to his role on the City Council, Joe serves on several regional boards, including as Chair of the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency and the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department Board of Health. His work centers on housing affordability, community safety, environmental health, and inclusive governance. Joe continues to bring his lived experience as a veteran, community member, and son of a Cambodian refugee family into every aspect of his public service.KhmerTalk Host:Srey KrayKhmerTalk Special Guest:Deputy Mayor for the City of Tacoma, WashingtonChanjolee “Joe” BushnellSet Designer:Srey KrayOrn PhinMichael-Te ChiengMusic By:Ryan O'Neal - Music at http://www.slipperylee.comSerey Im - RoneatExecutive Producer:Chenda OuchSrey KrayMichael-Te ChiengExecutive Director:Michael-Te ChiengAssistant Director:Orn PhinPhally SoeungSocial Media Director:Zakiya RobinsonKhmerTalk Board Member:Chenda OuchPhally SoeungNek Kru Darachan RosHak-Ry SreyJenda KongSrey KrayOrn PhinRady Mey OumSamuel DanhKeo ChhimMichael-Te Chieng

KhmerTalk: S1-E07

In this episode, we talk with Ley Dy Chim—a Cambodian refugee, community advocate, and former Ms. Asia Platinum of Washington. Dedicated to uplifting culture and service, Ley moved to the Pacific Northwest in the fifth grade and later earned a Bachelor of Technology in Applied Design. She currently works in Quality Assurance at Boeing.A proud wife and mother of three, Ley is also a passionate community volunteer. Her pageantry journey includes titles such as Ms. Asia WA Platinum, NW Royal Miss, and Mrs. Snohomish County. Beyond the stage, she has emceed Cambodian cultural events, collaborated with designers and photographers, and modeled for local brands. She currently serves as a Board Member for the Lake Stevens Kiwanis. Through fundraisers, cultural celebrations, and leadership, Ley continues to amplify Khmer voices while bridging generations.generations.Ley is also a key member of the New Year Celebration planning committee. This year is particularly special as Cambodia is the hosting nation for the festivities. As the Asia Pacific Cultural Center (APCC) prepares to kick off the Lunar New Year Celebration, Ley has been instrumental in ensuring the show’s success.The APCC serves as a central gathering place for all Asians and Pacific Islanders to teach, share, and showcase their rich heritage. An inclusive space for immigrants, refugees, and families, the APCC works with over 47 ethnic communities. Each year, a different nation is chosen to host the Lunar New Year event at the Tacoma Dome. We are proud to invite everyone to this free celebration on February 28th, 2026, from 11 AM to 6 PM. If you are in the area, come experience this incredible day of cultural discovery!In this episode, we talk with Ley Dy Chim—a Cambodian refugee, community advocate, and former Ms. Asia Platinum of Washington. Dedicated to uplifting culture and service, Ley moved to the Pacific Northwest in the fifth grade and later earned a Bachelor of Technology in Applied Design. She currently works in Quality Assurance at Boeing.A proud wife and mother of three, Ley is also a passionate community volunteer. Her pageantry journey includes titles such as Ms. Asia WA Platinum, NW Royal Miss, and Mrs. Snohomish County. Beyond the stage, she has emceed Cambodian cultural events, collaborated with designers and photographers, and modeled for local brands. She currently serves as a Board Member for the Lake Stevens Kiwanis. Through fundraisers, cultural celebrations, and leadership, Ley continues to amplify Khmer voices while bridging generations.generations.Ley is also a key member of the New Year Celebration planning committee. This year is particularly special as Cambodia is the hosting nation for the festivities. As the Asia Pacific Cultural Center (APCC) prepares to kick off the Lunar New Year Celebration, Ley has been instrumental in ensuring the show’s success.The APCC serves as a central gathering place for all Asians and Pacific Islanders to teach, share, and showcase their rich heritage. An inclusive space for immigrants, refugees, and families, the APCC works with over 47 ethnic communities. Each year, a different nation is chosen to host the Lunar New Year event at the Tacoma Dome. We are proud to invite everyone to this free celebration on February 28th, 2026, from 11 AM to 6 PM. If you are in the area, come experience this incredible day of cultural discovery!rss.com/podcasts/khmertalk

KhmerTalk: S1-E06

In this episode, we interview with Bong Angelina Lim. She is a respected real estate professional whose success reflects a foundation built on family values, cultural heritage, and unwavering integrity. Raised by a mother who was a successful businesswoman in her own time, Angelina grew upwitnessing the discipline, resilience, and ethical responsibility required to build both a career and a meaningful life. Those formative influences continue to shape her professional standards and personal leadership today.With more than a decade of experience in real estate across the Puget Sound region,Angelina has built a reputation for professionalism, reliability, and client-centered service. Fluent in Cambodian and experienced in working with diverse communities, she brings cultural understanding, clear communication, and steady guidance to every transaction. Her approach emphasizes trust, long-term relationships, and ensuring that clients feel supported and confident throughout the buying or selling process. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Angelina embodies values deeply respected within the Khmer community — integrity, humility, professionalism, and what many describe as true Khmer class: carrying oneself with respect, grace, and ethical consistency in all settings. She is a devoted mother, supportive wife, trusted friend, and committed community supporter who believes success carries a responsibility to uplift others.Angelina’s journey reflects a broader Khmer story — that strong roots, culturalgrounding, and ethical leadership can guide both professional achievement andmeaningful contributions to family and community. Through her work and her example,she continues to demonstrate that success is most powerful when guided by integrity,compassion, and purpose.Angelina is also a key member of the New Year Celebration planning committee. This year is particularly special as Cambodia is the hosting nation for the festivities. As the Asia Pacific Cultural Center (APCC) prepares to kick off the Lunar New Year Celebration, Angelina has been instrumental in ensuring the show’s success.The APCC serves as a central gathering place for all Asians and Pacific Islanders to teach, share, and showcase their rich heritage. An inclusive space for immigrants, refugees, and families, the APCC works with over 47 ethnic communities. Each year, a different nation is chosen to host the Lunar New Year event at the Tacoma Dome. We are proud to invite everyone to this free celebration on February 28th, 2026, from 11 AM to 6 PM. If you are in the area, come experience this incredible day of cultural discovery!https://www.skylineproperties.com/angelinalim/https://rss.com/podcasts/khmertalk/2539009

KhmerTalk: S1-E05

In this episode we welcome Channdara Sos—a community leader, mentor, and global professional whose journey reflects resilience, purpose, and service.

Channdara began his academic journey in Cambodia, earning a degree in Computer Science from the Royal University of Phnom Penh in 2005. With a dream to grow beyond borders, he moved to the United States, where he later earned an MBA in Finance and was selected as a distinguished student speaker at graduation.

Professionally, Channdara has built an impressive career across research, healthcare, technology, and global corporations—working with organizations such as Fred Hutch Research Center, UnitedHealth Group, Expedia Group, Samsung Electronics, Microsoft, and currently as a Project/Program Manager at Amazon.

Beyond his career, Channdara’s heart has always remained with the Khmer community. He has dedicated decades of service to cultural, civic, and advocacy organizations and currently serves as Chairman of the Cambodian American Community Council of WA. Please visit CACCWA at https://www.CACCWA.org to learn more on how to help or volunteer.