Welcome to The Khmer Tree Podcast, where we share stories from the Cambodian Diaspora. This podcast is dedicated to sharing the experiences of Khmer communities around the world. Each episode dives into personal stories, cultural traditions and reflections on identity, heritage, and community. Whether you’re part of the diaspora, curious about Cambodian culture or simply drawn to inspiring human stories, Khmer Tree is a space for connection, pride, and empowerment. We honor the past, celebra ...
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KhmerTree.com Podcasts

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Sophon Khoeun - VP National Cambodian Heritage Museum , Chicago, IL
1:26:13
1:26:13
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1:26:13In this inspiring episode of Khmer Tree, host Chad welcomes Sophon Khoeun, who shares his extraordinary journey of resilience, creativity, and cultural pride. Born during the dark years of the Khmer Rouge regime in Cambodia, Sophon and his family endured profound challenges before finding refuge in the United States. His story captures both the str…
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Audrey Chea - Community Advocate & Financial Literacy
58:04
58:04
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58:04In this powerful episode, Chad sits down with Audrey Chea, a former refugee from Cambodia whose life story embodies resilience, determination, and service to others. Audrey recounts her harrowing experiences of surviving the Khmer Rouge regime and the difficult transition to life in the United States as an immigrant. She reflects on how these early…
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https://www.chinaryung.com/index.html In this episode, host Chad has the honor of interviewing Chinary Ung, the legendary Cambodian composer whose extraordinary journey bridges two worlds: the traditional sounds of Cambodia and the evolving landscape of contemporary music in the United States. From his childhood in Cambodia to his rise as a promine…
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1
Nek Kru Charya-Burt - Cambodian Classical Dance Choreographer
57:25
57:25
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57:25In this episode, host Chad sits down with Neak Kru Charya, a master teacher and choreographer of Cambodian classical dance, at the Cambodian Heritage Museum in Chicago. Neak Kru shares her inspiring journey from Cambodia to the United States, reflecting on how her life experiences shaped her devotion to keeping Khmer traditions alive and accessible…
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In this conversation, host Chad speaks with Kevin Keo, a Khmer American artist and scholar whose work explores the intersections of culture, identity, and creativity. Growing up in Long Beach, California, home to one of the largest Cambodian American communities in the country, Kevin reflects on how his upbringing shaped his sense of belonging and …
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Fedrick Ngo - Professor at UNLV (Las Vegas)
1:03:56
1:03:56
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1:03:56In this episode, host Chad interviews Fedrick Ngo, a Cambodian American professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), who shares his family’s journey of resilience, migration, and cultural rediscovery. Fedrick reflects on his family’s move from Cambodia to the United States, and how growing up in Syracuse, New York, and later Long Beach,…
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1
Punisa Pov - Artist in Resident Chicago, IL
1:23:11
1:23:11
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1:23:11In this episode, host Chad welcomes Punisa Pov, a Cambodian traditional musician whose journey reflects resilience, cultural pride, and the healing power of music. Punisa takes listeners back to her early life in Phnom Penh, where her love for traditional Khmer music first took root amid the everyday challenges her family faced. She speaks openly a…
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1
Neak Kru Sopaline Chem Shapiro & Husband John Shapiro
2:45:44
2:45:44
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2:45:44In this episode of Khmer Tree, host Chad engages in a heartfelt and thought-provoking conversation with Neak Kru Sophiline Cheam Shapiro, a renowned Cambodian classical dancer, choreographer, and teacher, along with her husband, Pu John Shapiro, an artist and cultural advocate. Together, they share their life journeys, beginning with their formativ…
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1
Vanndearlyn Burmudez Vong - Aspiring Ceramics Artist
32:43
32:43
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32:43In this episode, Chad engages in a thoughtful conversation with a Cambodian artist whose passion for pottery and ceramics serves as both a personal journey and a cultural statement. The artist shares how their path into the world of ceramics was not only about discovering a creative outlet but also about reconnecting with Khmer traditions and findi…
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Brandy Meyers - Growing Up Half Black In Cambodian Neighborhoods
1:06:32
1:06:32
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1:06:32In this episode, host Chad sits down with Brandy Myers, who shares her inspiring journey from Columbus, Ohio, to Long Beach, California, and the unique perspective she brings as a mixed-race individual within the Khmer community. Brandy reflects on the complexities of navigating multiple cultural identities, the importance of finding belonging, and…
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Samantha (Sam) Chanwantha Limon - Chief of HR LA County, Los Angeles, CA, Board member of Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific
1:18:26
1:18:26
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1:18:26In this episode, Chad interviews Samantha (Sam) Chanwantha Limon, a prominent Cambodian American leader whose inspiring journey reflects resilience, service, and dedication to community. Born in Cambodia during a time of great turmoil, Sam and her family were forced to flee the Khmer Rouge regime, ultimately finding refuge and building a new life i…
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1
Ova Sao Pang - Co Founder of Teada Productions
59:07
59:07
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59:07In this episode, host Chad sits down with Ova Sao Pang, a Lao refugee who grew up in Hawaii, to explore his remarkable life journey and the lessons he has drawn from it. Ova shares the story of his family’s migration from Laos to the United States, describing the challenges of displacement and the resilience required to build a new life in a comple…
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Sophath Chou Colwell - Immigration Lawyer, Seattle, WA & Co-Founder of The National Association of Cambodian American Lawyers (NACAL)
1:07:14
1:07:14
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1:07:14Sophath Chou Colwell - Immigration Lawyer, Seattle, WA & Co-Founder of The National Association of Cambodian American Lawyers (NACAL)
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In this lively and heartfelt episode, Chad reconnects with O’lary Yim, and together they share the humorous and memorable story of their reunion. Their conversation flows between personal history and broader cultural narratives, giving listeners an intimate yet wide-ranging perspective on Cambodian heritage. O’lary speaks about her royal family con…
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Saron Khut - Owner of Mekong Bistro, Portland, OR
50:49
50:49
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50:49Saron Khut - Owner of Mekong Bistro, Portland, OR
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Kim Tan - Entrepreneur and Business Leader, Phnom Panh, Cambodia
1:25:11
1:25:11
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1:25:11In this episode, Chad interviews Kim Tan, who shares her inspiring journey of returning to Cambodia after years of living in the United States. Kim reflects on the challenges and opportunities of building a business dedicated to talent and skills development in her home country. She highlights the importance of equipping young people and women with…
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In this episode, Chad sits down with Botum LeBon, who shares the extraordinary story of her life’s journey from Cambodia to the global stage. Born in Cambodia during a time of turmoil, Botum recounts her early experiences as a refugee and the challenges her family endured while seeking safety and opportunity. She reflects on how these formative str…
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Robert Chow - Death in Cambodia, Life in America Podcast
54:27
54:27
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54:27In this compelling and inspiring episode, host Chad interviews Robert Chow, whose life story embodies resilience, courage, and the transformative power of hope. Robert takes listeners through his extraordinary journey, beginning with a privileged upbringing in Cambodia before the Khmer Rouge regime plunged his world into chaos. He recounts the harr…
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In this insightful and inspiring episode, host Chad sits down with Ravin Pan, a Cambodian-American educator, professor, and advocate for educational reform, to explore the profound connection between personal history, cultural identity, and the transformative power of learning. Ravin shares his family’s remarkable story, beginning with their life i…
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In this inspiring and deeply personal episode of Khmer Tree, host Chad sits down with Yari Livan, a Cambodian-born artist, master potter, and ceramics professor based in Lowell, Massachusetts—home to one of the largest Cambodian communities in the United States. Yari shares his extraordinary journey, beginning with his childhood in Cambodia, the ha…
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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, representati…
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Chhaya Tan - Entrepreneur, story teller, community advocate
1:03:49
1:03:49
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1:03:49In 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 t…
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Kaylean Ung Breen - Actress, musician, artist, educator
1:00:42
1:00:42
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1:00:42In 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…
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Mea Lath - Founder of Modern Apsara Company
1:14:54
1:14:54
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1:14:54In 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—naviga…
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Sovanna Pouv - From East Coast to West Coast, There Will Always Be Community Love
1:05:53
1:05:53
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1:05:53Sovanna Pouv - From East Coast to West Coast, There Will Always Be Community Love
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1
Neardey Trinh - Founder of Little Lana's Cookies & Supermom
49:41
49:41
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49:41In 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 he…
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1
Rob Carlton - Visual Anthropologist & Filmmaker
56:09
56:09
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56:09In 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 Cambo…
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1
Li-Da Kruger - Founder of Reconnecting Cambodia, DNA Project
59:42
59:42
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59:42In 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 las…
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1
Laura Ouk - Educator & President of The National Cambodian Heritage Museum
58:29
58:29
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58:29In 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 recou…
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1
Paul Sum - Memoirs of a Childhood Friend
1:29:59
1:29:59
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1:29:59In 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 her…
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Lyna Thoeun - Childhood Friend Opens Up About Life & Family
57:53
57:53
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57:53Lyna Thoeun - Childhood Friend Opens Up About Life & Family
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1
Pastor Randy Odom - A Couple's Journey to Cambodia
1:02:09
1:02:09
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1:02:09In this heartfelt episode, Chad sits down with Randy Odom to discuss his incredible journey of faith, sacrifice, and love that led him from the United States to the heart of Cambodia. What began as a casual lunch conversation would ultimately change the course of Randy’s life forever. Inspired by a deep sense of purpose, he and his wife made the co…
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Rithy Hanh - The Unofficial Mayor of Cambodia Town, Long Beach, CA
1:01:35
1:01:35
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1:01:35Rithy Hanh - The Unofficial Mayor of Cambodia Town, Long Beach, CA
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1
Randy Muth - Executive Director of Angkor Resource Center
1:13:53
1:13:53
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1:13:53https://arc707.org/ 404-594-8770
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Chhaya Chhoum - Executive Director of Southeast Asian Freedom Network (SEAFN)
51:35
51:35
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51:35Chhaya Chhoum - Executive Director of Southeast Asian Freedom Network (SEAFN)
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1
Vanny Whitchelo - Founder & Host of Khmer Voices Podcast
52:22
52:22
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52:22Vanny Whitchelo - Founder & Host of Khmer Voices Podcast
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1
Dorothy Chow - Founder & Host of Death in Cambodia Life in America Podcast
54:24
54:24
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54:24Dorothy Chow - Founder & Host of Death in Cambodia Life in America Podcast
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1
Kaylene Men - Owner of Khmer Bridal Boutique, Long Beach, CA
52:12
52:12
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52:12Kaylene Men - Owner of Khmer Bridal Boutique, Long Beach, CA 2434 E Pacific Coast Hwy Long Beach, CA, United States, California 90804
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Kun Chap - Retired Navy Commander
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Kim Chha Hout - Cambodia Honorary Consul General & President of Cambodia Chamber of Commerce
57:00
57:00
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57:00Kim Chha Hout - Cambodia Honorary Consul General & President of Cambodia Chamber of Commerce
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1
Boden Him - Master of Creatives Explains All
47:08
47:08
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47:08Boden Him - Master of Creatives Explains All
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1
Don King Pin - Program Manager at United Cambodian Community
53:48
53:48
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53:48Don King Pin - Program Manager at United Cambodian Community
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1
Kreng Krich - Former Youth Pastor Explains All
1:28:24
1:28:24
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1:28:24Kreng Krich - Former Youth Pastor Explains All
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1
Sokea Peou - Childhood Friend Opens Up About Cancer & Family
1:11:52
1:11:52
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1:11:52Sokea Peou - Childhood Friend Opens Up About Cancer & Family
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Dr. Christina Lee - Owner & Physician of Majestic Medical Clinic, Long Beach, CA
1:32:57
1:32:57
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1:32:57In 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 f…
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Sophy Khut - Owner of Sophy's Restaurant, Long Beach, CA
1:09:47
1:09:47
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1:09:47In 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 f…
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Sophaline Mao, MA, MBA - Khmer-American Real Estate Entrepreneur in California
1:21:35
1:21:35
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1:21:35In 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 s…
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Tony Te Chan - Cambodian Community Organizer, Events Coordinator & Real Estate Professional, Long Beach, CA
46:15
46:15
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46:15In 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 pre…
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Dr. Kara Uy Has - Cambodian Refugee from Battambang to Doctor in America
1:31:07
1:31:07
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1:31:07In 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, whil…
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Mao Beckett - EMDR-Certified Somatic Therapist / Clinical Social Work, LCSW, LICSW
1:04:08
1:04:08
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1:04:08In 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 hea…
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