Death in Cambodia, Life in America

In the Season 4 premiere of the Death in Cambodia, Life in America Podcast, we're kicking things off with a new focus: amplifying the voices of young, bold Cambodian changemakers. First up is content creator and community builder Priscilla Kim Ong, also known as Sela — a Khmer-Krom American who moved to Cambodia to reconnect with her roots and reclaim her identity. Sela shares how growing up in a predominantly white town shaped her early disconnect from Khmer identity, and how learning about Khmer-Krom history sparked a transformation that eventually led her to leave the U.S. and move to Cambodia. From learning Khmer with monks to launching Selarati, a homecoming experience for diasporic Khmer, Sela opens up about the healing, loneliness, and power of creating something deeply intentional for her community. We talk about her vision for Selarati, her hopes for bridging intergenerational gaps, and the musical and cultural renaissance she sees blooming in Cambodia today. A deeply personal, expansive conversation about belonging, activism, and the journey home. ✨ Selarati is accepting signups now for the next homecoming experience in Cambodia, happening April 6–15 for Khmer New Year. Sign-ups close early February. 👉 Learn more at www.selarati.com or follow @selarati on IG for updates. Supporting Sela’s Work: www.selarati.com Instagram LinkedIn YouTube TikTok:

In the final episode of this season of Death in Cambodia, Life in America, I sit down with siblings Christina and Anthony Teav, co-founders of Mama Teav’s Hot Garlic Sauce, for a conversation about food, family, and what it means to build something rooted in legacy. We talk about growing up Cambodian American in Stockton, navigating identity in the shadow of war, and how their family’s story inspired them to launch a business that celebrates Cambodian flavor. Christina and Anthony open up about the healing power of cooking with their mom, the early hustle of bringing Mama Teav’s to market, and their hopes for building a Southeast Asian brand with heart and purpose. A beautiful close to the season, this episode is all about food, family, and finding your way back to yourself through flavor. Supporting Anthony & Christina’s Work: www.mamateavs.com https://www.tiktok.com/@mamateavs https://www.instagram.com/mamateavs/?hl=en

In this episode of Death in Cambodia, Life in America, I sit down with Chef Nite Yun, the visionary behind the beloved Oakland restaurant Nyum Bai, author of the new cookbook My Cambodia, and one of the stars of Netflix’s Chef’s Table: Noodles. Her episode introduced millions to the richness of Khmer cuisine, but behind the camera, Chef Nite’s story is one of identity, intergenerational trauma, and healing through food. Born to Cambodian refugee parents and raised in Stockton, California, Chef Nite grew up immersed in Khmer food and language, but it wasn’t until her 20s, during a trip to Cambodia, that she fully understood how deeply food was tied to memory, trauma, and healing. We talk about the surreal experience of filming Chef’s Table, the complexities of authenticity, and the joy and pressure of representing your people on a global platform. We also touch on the legacy of war and loss that shaped her family, how cooking became her way to reconnect with her roots, and why she felt both grief and relief when closing Nyum Bai at the height of its success. Plus, Nite opens up about her new restaurant Lunette and the upcoming release of her debut cookbook My Cambodia. From learning her mother’s recipes to finding her voice on Chef’s Table, Chef Nite shares what it means to reclaim Cambodian identity, one dish at a time. This episode is about food, family, and the stories we carry in every bite. Supporting Chef Nites Work: IG: @nite_nite_nite https://www.nyumbai.com/ https://www.amazon.com/My-Cambodia-Cookbook-Nite-Yun/dp/1984863371

In this episode of Death in Cambodia, Life in America, I speak with Li-Da Kruger, a Cambodian-born British filmmaker and adoptee, whose search for identity has shaped the course of her life. Adopted as a baby just before the Khmer Rouge came to power, Li-Da was raised in the UK with little connection to her roots. For decades, she carried the weight of survival, guilt, and longing for a culture that felt both hers and not hers. We talk about the emotional complexities of growing up as an adoptee, the guilt that comes with being spared, and the moment she finally felt permission to claim her Cambodian identity. Through her documentaries Belonging and Prue Leith: Journey with My Daughter, and her charity Reconnecting Cambodia, Li-Da has transformed her personal story into a mission to help others find their missing family and sense of self. This episode is for anyone asking where they come from, and what it means to belong. Supporting Li-Da’s Work: DONATE | Facebook | LinknedIn Insta | Youtube | Tiktok www.reconnectingcambodia.org li-da@reconnectingcambodia.org

This week on the Death in Cambodia, Life in America Podcast, I sit down with James Taing, founder of the Preah Vihear Foundation, author of Under the Naga Tail, and director of the short documentary Ghost Mountain. James shares the deeply personal story of his father, who survived the Khmer Rouge only to face a second, lesser-known atrocity: being forced back across the Thai-Cambodian border into a minefield enduring a trauma shared by more than 45,000 refugees seeking safety in 1979. We discuss Taings’s years of research, the emotional weight of telling this story, and how Ghost Mountain is helping shine a light on a history so few have heard. We also talk about the rising tensions between Cambodia and Thailand today, and how this conflict is not new, but rooted in generations of political trauma and displacement. Tiang’s dedication to preserving memory, honoring victims, and educating future generations is a powerful reminder of why these stories must be told. Supporting James Taing’s Work: https://www.amazon.com/Under-Naga-Tail-Survival-Cambodian/dp/B0BDY14NM9 https://www.amazon.com/Destroy-You-No-Loss-Cambodian-ebook/dp/B089YYJP41/ https://www.amazon.com/dp/0557554764 https://mjqeducation.edu.kh/articles/dangrek-mountains----unforgettable https://www.amazon.com/Where-Landmine-Blooms-Aditi-Kahn/dp/B0DR2ZSJJL/ https://www.pvfund.org/ghostmountain Facebook | Instagram | IMDB

In the latest episode of the Death in Cambodia, Life in America Podcast, I had the honor of sitting down with Chef Ros Rotanak (better known as Chef Nak) Cambodia’s leading culinary ambassador and the author of the award-winning cookbook SAOI. From her earliest memories of cooking out of necessity to her rise as a global advocate for Khmer food, Chef Nak’s journey is one of resilience, purpose, and passion. In this interview, she opens up about the emotional weight of her achievements, the delicate balance between honoring tradition and modernizing presentation, and how cooking became a way to reclaim and share Cambodian identity after the Khmer Rouge. This episode is a reminder that food can be about more than just nourishment. It can open the door to unlocking cultural memories, resistance, and pride. Supporting Chef Nak’s Work: https://www.chefnak.com/ SAOY - Royal Cambodian Home Cuisine NHUM - Recipes from a Cambodian Home Kitchen www.instagram.com/chefnak/

In this episode of Death in Cambodia, Life in America, I sit down with Amara Goel, a Cambodian American performing artist, and policy analyst whose journey spans refugee camps, international stages, and global policy work. Amara shares her experiences growing up as a 1.5 generation immigrant and how her identity has been shaped by a life lived across countries and cultures. We explore her deep connection to Cambodian history and how the lack of education around the Khmer Rouge in the U.S. fuels her passion for storytelling and advocacy. From her roles in Where Elephants Weep, Sun and Sea, and Winds of Angkor to her work with World Vision and the United Nations International Labour Organization, Amara seamlessly bridges the worlds of art and activism. She opens up about how creativity and policy work are intertwined in her mission to drive social change, particularly in eradicating child labor and addressing the global hunger crisis. Amara also shares her future aspirations, including developing her voice as a poet and deepening her impact across both the arts and humanitarian fields. This episode is a powerful reminder that healing, identity, and activism can take many forms and that storytelling is at the heart of lasting change. Support Amara Goels Work: Unprecedented hunger, mental health tragedy, and gender-based violence: The crisis for children and families in Sudan - Sudan | ReliefWebFood prices continue to rise in the world’s poorest countries - World | ReliefWebCollaboration and Commemoration: Acknowledging the Khmer Rouge Genocide Through Art ** In this episode, Amara Goel refers to earning a master’s degree and joining Sun & Sea in 2003. She has since clarified that she earned a bachelor’s degree in classical voice and joined the cast in 2023.**

In this episode of Death in Cambodia, Life in America, I sit down with Caylee So, a Cambodian-American filmmaker, veteran, and co-founder of the Cambodian Town Film Festival. Born in a refugee camp after her parents fled the Khmer Rouge, Caylee shares her incredible journey from growing up in Virginia to serving in the Army National Guard and ultimately finding her voice through filmmaking. We talk about the life-altering impact of her mother’s death, her deployment to Iraq, and how these experiences shaped her understanding of identity, heritage, and storytelling. Caylee opens up about her path from business student to creative writer to director, and why she feels it’s more important than ever to bring Cambodian narratives to the screen. From directing morale plays during her time in the military to creating films like In the Life of Music, Caylee’s story is a testament to resilience, self-discovery, and the power of diverse voices in cinema. This episode is a tribute to the importance of telling the stories that matter—and to building spaces where new ones can thrive. Supporting Caylee So’s Work: https://www.demoreel.com/cayleeso https://www.instagram.com/caylee_so/

With the 50th anniversary of the Khmer Rouge upon us, I’m honored to share a conversation that holds so much weight, truth, and heart. In this episode of Death in Cambodia, Life in America, I sit down with Loung Ung, Cambodian-American author, activist, and survivor. You probably know Loung from her memoir First They Killed My Father, which tells the story of her survival during the Khmer Rouge regime. It was later adapted into a Netflix film, co-written with and directed by Angelina Jolie. But in this conversation, Loung goes even deeper—sharing the emotional toll of writing her story, the healing that came through Buddhism, and the journey of reconnecting with her sister and her homeland. We talk about the complexities of privilege, family, and cultural identity—and what it means to live a purposeful life after trauma. Loung's honesty, strength, and compassion left a lasting impression on me, and I think it will for you, too. This episode is for anyone who believes in the power of storytelling, the resilience of the human heart, and the importance of remembering where we come from. Supporting Loung Ung’s Work: https://www.loungung.com/ “First They Killed My Father”: https://www.amazon.com/First-They-Killed-Father-Remembers/dp/0060856262/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1457124158&sr=8-1&keywords=first+they+killed+my+father

French-Cambodian artist Jean-Baptiste Phou joins Death in Cambodia, Life in America Podcast for a powerful conversation about identity, creative expression, and the journey of reconnection. Born in Paris and now based in Phnom Penh, Jean-Baptiste reflects on growing up as a Cambodian immigrant in France, grappling with cultural disconnection, and ultimately leaving a career in finance to pursue a life in the arts. Phou shares insights into his collaborations with renowned filmmaker Rithy Panh, the inspiration behind his film My Mother’s Tongue, and the emotional depth of his latest book Coming Out of My Skin—a bold and vulnerable exploration of racism, sexuality, and belonging within the gay community in France. Through writing, film, and performance, Phou creates space for conversations about heritage, healing, and the nuances of living between worlds. This episode is an intimate look at what it means to reclaim your narrative, challenge silence, and make art that moves culture forward. Supporting Jean-Baptiste Phou’s Work: jeanbaptistephou.com

In this episode of Death in Cambodia, Life in America, we sit down with Patricia McCormick, a two-time National Book Award finalist and the acclaimed author of Never Fall Down, a powerful novel based on the true story of Arne Chorn-Pond, a boy who survived the Khmer Rouge by playing music. With a background in journalism and a passion for storytelling, McCormick has spent her career shedding light on issues of trauma, healing, and resilience, tackling difficult subjects such as child soldiers, human trafficking, and genocide in her critically acclaimed books. We talk about the challenges of writing about real-life atrocities, the emotional toll of interviewing survivors, and the importance of preserving history through literature. McCormick shares her experiences working closely with Arne, how music became a lifeline for him in the killing fields, and why storytelling is a vital tool for both healing and historical awareness. This conversation is a deep dive into the responsibility of writers in shaping how future generations understand genocide, war, and survival. It also highlights why survivors’ voices matter and how books like Never Fall Down serve as crucial records of Cambodia’s painful history. Supporting Patricia McCormicks Work: https://www.patriciamccormick.com Never Fall Down (Amazon)

We’re back with Season 3 of Death in Cambodia, Life in America, and we’re still going strong with incredible interviews! This week, we’re joined by Sin Setsochhata, a rising singer-songwriter from Phnom Penh and the granddaughter of the legendary Sinn Sisamouth—Cambodia’s “Elvis” and a trailblazer of Khmer rock. Setsochhata opens up about growing up in a musical family, the challenges of living up to her grandfather’s iconic legacy, and her determination to preserve her family’s musical roots while carving out her own identity. She shares her reflections on the evolution of Cambodia’s music industry, the importance of community among artists, and the healing power of music in addressing generational trauma. This conversation also highlights Setsochhata’s dedication to mental health awareness and her aspirations for the future, including her recent remake of her grandfather’s classic song, Tumpapa Dumbong. Join us for this inspiring episode as we continue to explore the resilience, creativity, and strength of Cambodia’s next generation of artists. Supporting Sin Setsochhata’s Work:

In this episode of Death in Cambodia, Life in America, we sit down with anthropologist Dr. Judy Ledgerwood, an expert on generational trauma and Southeast Asian studies. Drawing from decades of research in Cambodia and with Cambodian refugees in the United States, Dr. Ledgerwood unpacks the profound aftermath of the Khmer Rouge regime. Together, they explore the regime’s devastating impact on mortality, family structures, and gender roles, and how survivors rebuilt their lives amid lingering fear and uncertainty. The revival of Buddhism plays a central role in this healing process, offering solace and a sense of community to those grappling with trauma. Dr. Ledgerwood also emphasizes the importance of storytelling and education in understanding the Khmer Rouge’s legacy and ensuring history does not repeat itself. Amidst the challenges, she offers a message of hope for Cambodia’s future, highlighting progress in economic development and education. This conversation is a powerful exploration of resilience, healing, and the enduring strength of the Cambodian people. Supporting Dr. Judy Ledgerwood’s Work: At the Edge of the Forest: Essays on Cambodia, History, and Narrative in Honor of David Chandler Cambodia Emerges from the Past: Eight Essays

In this powerful episode of Death in Cambodia, Life in America, we sit down with renowned anthropologist Dr. Alexander Hinton, an expert on genocide, mass violence, and human rights, to dig into the dark history of the Cambodian genocide and the lessons it holds for the world. Dr. Hinton shares how his journey began with a visit to Cambodia in 1992, where he was profoundly moved by the stories of Khmer Rouge survivors. Together, we explore the foundations of genocide—how ideology, intent, and a history of political violence create the conditions for such atrocities to occur. Dr. Hinton sheds light on the Khmer Rouge regime’s use of manipulation and control, including how they twisted cultural and religious concepts to justify their actions. We also discuss the politicization of the term "genocide" and why it's crucial to confront these debates head-on to achieve justice and accountability. Dr. Hinton offers unique insights from his time as an expert witness at the Khmer Rouge tribunal, unpacking the challenges of proving genocide and the vital role tribunals play in bringing truth to light. He emphasizes the importance of education in genocide prevention, exploring how understanding history and addressing trauma can help build resilience and reconciliation in post-genocide societies. This episode is a profound look at the power of storytelling, justice, and education in the ongoing fight against mass violence. Whether you're new to learning about the Cambodian genocide or a longtime student of history, Dr. Hinton’s reflections will leave you with a deeper understanding of the human cost of violence—and the hope for a more just future. Supporting Dr. Hinton’s Work: Why Did They Kill?: Cambodia in the Shadow of Genocide (Volume 11) (California Series in Public Anthropology) Anthropological Witness: Lessons from the Khmer Rouge Tribunal Rethinking Peace: Discourse, Memory, Translation, and Dialogue (Critical Perspectives on Religion in International Politics) It Can Happen Here: White Power and the Rising Threat of Genocide in the US

In this week’s episode, we sit down with Chantha Nguon, author of Slow Noodles, Fast City and a refugee of the Khmer Rouge. Nguon shares her powerful journey of survival, starting with her childhood in Cambodia, which abruptly changed when the Khmer Rouge took over. She recounts the hardships her family faced while fleeing to Vietnam, losing loved ones along the way, and eventually finding herself in refugee camps. Cooking became her lifeline, and it’s through her love for food and her mother’s recipes that ’Slow Noodles, Fast City’ was born. Joined by her daughter, Clara Kim, Nguon opens up about the healing process of writing her book, overcoming cultural barriers to share her story, and how this project has deepened the bond between mother and daughter. Together, they reflect on the memories tied to their recipes and the significance of sharing Cambodian culture and history through food. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on resilience, family, and the power of storytelling. Supporting Chantha Nguon’s Work: https://www.slownoodles.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SlowNoodles/ Instagram: @slownoodles Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKHEIdPtBayqfLy3TO4iHWw TikTok: @slownoodlesbook

In this week’s episode, we sit down with Eric Tang, author of Unsettled: Cambodian Refugees in the New York City Hyperghetto. As an associate professor and former community organizer, Tang shares his deeply personal research on Cambodian refugees in the U.S., shedding light on the often overlooked struggles they face. From his time working with Cambodian and Vietnamese communities in the Bronx, Tang discusses the concept of "hyper ghettos," the economically devastated neighborhoods where many refugees settled, and how these harsh environments shaped their lives. He challenges the narrative of the American Dream, uncovering the complex reality of finding refuge in a country that is both a sanctuary and a source of displacement. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation about resilience, identity, and the true refugee experience. Supporting Eric Tangs Work: https://www.unsettledcity.com/

In this episode of Death in Cambodia, Life in America, we sit down with award-winning Cambodian-American director and writer, Bunthoeun Real, to dive into his experiences growing up as a Cambodian American and his inspiring journey into filmmaking. Real shares the unique challenges of navigating cultural expectations, the importance of representation in media, and the personal stories behind his acclaimed short film, Donut Boy, which captures the lives of Cambodian American "donut kids." Throughout the conversation, Real opens up about how family history, trauma, and identity have shaped his storytelling, highlighting the vital role authentic narratives play in connecting with audiences. We discuss the ups and downs of the filmmaking process and how the industry is slowly embracing more diverse voices. Real also shares his aspirations for future projects that will continue to shine a light on Cambodian American experiences. This episode offers a touching reflection on the power of storytelling as a bridge across generations and a source of healing within communities. Join us as we explore the beauty and strength that come from sharing stories that matter. Supporting Bunthoeun Real’s Work: Donut Boy Trailer: https://youtu.be/0dBzAFVro9A?si=8k0YW7ZvFZRBK4Sc Instagram: @breal2dollaz + @donutboythesis You can watch Donut Boy at the following upcoming film festivals: San Diego International Film Festival: October 17, 2024 Local Sighting Film Festival in Seattle (Virtual + In-Person Viewing Options): September 20-September 29, 2024

Elizabeth Becker, a war correspondent and author of When The War Was Over: Cambodia and the Khmer Rouge, discusses her experience in Cambodia during the Khmer Rouge regime. Becker explains how she became interested in Cambodian history and how she ended up as a journalist in Vietnam and Cambodia. Becker highlights the importance of understanding the historical context of Cambodia's involvement in the Vietnam War and the impact of American bombing. She also shares her experience as one of the few journalists allowed into Cambodia during the Khmer Rouge regime and the propaganda she witnessed. Becker discusses the murder of a journalist during her visit and the inconsistencies in the official narrative. She concludes by reflecting on her interview with Pol Pot and the paranoia and delusions of the Khmer Rouge leadership. Elizabeth Becker discusses her experiences in Cambodia during the Khmer Rouge regime and the importance of telling the stories of ordinary people. She talks about her book 'When the War is Over' and the impact it has had. Becker also mentions the movie 'Rendezvous avec Pol Pot' and the emotional toll of being close to such a horrific figure. She emphasizes the need for more media attention on Cambodia and its history. Supporting Elizabeth Beckers Work Website www.elizabethbecker.com Books You Don't Belong Here: How Three Women Rewrote the Story of War When The War Was Over: Cambodia And The Khmer Rouge

Dr. Scott A. Allen, an author, physician and professor, shares his experiences working in refugee camps on the Thai-Cambodian border in the 1980s in his book, Across a Bridge of Fire: An American Teen's Odyssey from the Burn Ward to the Edge of the Cambodian Killing Fields. Dr. Allen highlights the resilience and hope he witnessed in the refugees, despite their difficult circumstances. He also explores the complexities of the Khmer Rouge regime and the challenges faced by women and children in the camps. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Allen emphasizes the importance of sharing and preserving the stories of survivors. He discusses the trauma experienced by Cambodian children in refugee camps and the resilience and optimism he witnessed among the survivors. He also talks about his transition from a relief worker to a resettlement worker for the U.S. Embassy and the challenges faced during the refugee resettlement process. He emphasizes the significance of preserving the history of the Cambodian American community and the contributions they have made to the United States. Supporting Dr. Allens Work: Website: drscottallen.com Read His Book: “Across a Bridge of Fire: An American Teen's Odyssey from the Burn Ward to the Edge of the Cambodian Killing Fields”

Monica Sok, author of A Nail the Evening Hangs On, discusses her upbringing in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and her connection to her Cambodian heritage. She shares how her parents' silence about their refugee experiences and her own curiosity led her to explore her history and pursue poetry. Sok talks about her time studying abroad in Vietnam and Cambodia, which inspired her to commit to writing poetry. She discusses her writing process and the emotional journey of creating her book. Sok discusses the process of writing her book of poems and the responsibility she felt to carry the history of her community. She explains how she created personas in her poems to write about the experiences of her family and community from a safe distance. Sok also reflects on how writing the book has changed her and brought her closer to the Khmer community. She hopes that future generations will learn the importance of their history, remain critical, and continue to fight against empire. Supporting Monca’s Work: Website: http://www.monicasok.com Read Her Book: A Nail the Evening Hangs On