KhmerTalk Podcast

KhmerTalk

KhmerTalk is a community storytelling podcast dedicated to preserving Khmer voices, culture, and lived experiences. We create space for elders, youth, leaders, and everyday community members to share stories that reflect resilience, identity, and cultural wisdom. Each episode connects generations, honors our heritage, and highlights the experiences that shape our community. KhmerTalk exists to inspire understanding, strengthen cultural pride, and build a lasting digital archive of Khmer stories for future generations. Whether you are watching from Cambodia or anywhere around the world, this is your space to listen, learn, and connect. Subscribe to support community voices and cultural preservation.

  1. Sep 28

    Lets Talk with Kevin Kdep about Building Futures Through Education

    KhmerTalk: S1-E15Lets Talk with Kevin Kdep about Building Futures Through EducationKevin Visoth Kdep is a Senior Aircraft Systems Engineering and Technical Leader at TheBoeing Company, where he has spent over two decades leading complex aerospace programs,mentoring engineers, and improving aircraft systems integrationHe currently serves as the P-8 Aircraft Systems IPT Leader, overseeing design integration, safetyapprovals, production improvements, and cross-functional collaboration across engineering,manufacturing, and regulatory teamsKevin’s academic journey reflects his lifelong commitment to learning and growth. He holds aBachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Washington and multiplegraduate certificates in project management and engineering leadership, and he is currentlycompleting his Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering, expected to graduate in 2026Beyond his professional accomplishments, Kevin is passionate about giving back to theCambodian-American community through education advocacy, career coaching, and mentorship.He believes that setting clear goals, building strong habits, and developing resilience areessential keys to long-term successKhmerTalk Host:Srey KrayKhmerTalk Special Guest:Kevin KdepFilming Location:Puyallup, WA.Set 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 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%2Fid1876347349iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-khmertalk-323766682

    Lets Talk with Kevin Kdep about Building Futures Through Education
  2. Aug 14

    Lets Talk with Chhay Mam about Frames of Freedom and How Arts First Is Building Creative Futures in the Heart of Tacoma

    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 ChiengOn-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 RSS Feed: rss.com/podcasts/khmertalk Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/77IaPRDSqB8PYWmbuxrtLK Apple Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/khmertalk/id1876347349 : https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-khmertalk-323766682https://www.pandora.com/podcast/khmertalk/PC:1001114024?part=ug-desktop&corr=150304341176107642

    Lets Talk with Chhay Mam about Frames of Freedom and How Arts First Is Building Creative Futures in the Heart of Tacoma
  3. Aug 8

    Lets Talk with Nek Kru Darachan Ros: About Chbab Srey (Khmer Women's Etiquette) Part-1

    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

  4. Jun 22

    Lets Talk with Patrick Kdep: A Fashion Designer Rising from the Hidden Refugee Camp

    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

    Lets Talk with Patrick Kdep: A Fashion Designer Rising from the Hidden Refugee Camp
  5. Jun 5

    Lets Talk with Chace Hunter: Breaking the Silence, He Shares His Journey of Identity and Healing

    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

  6. May 9

    Lets Talk with Chantha Banks - The Girl who learned war first

    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

    Lets Talk with Chantha Banks - The Girl who learned war first
  7. May 9

    Cambodia Takes the Stage 🇰🇭 | APCC Lunar New Year 2026 | KhmerTalk Field Interviews

    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

    Cambodia Takes the Stage 🇰🇭 | APCC Lunar New Year 2026 | KhmerTalk Field Interviews
  8. Mar 10

    Lets Talk with Deputy Mayor Chanjolee Joe Bushnell about Khmer Roots and Leadership

    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

    Lets Talk with Deputy Mayor Chanjolee Joe Bushnell about Khmer Roots and Leadership

About

KhmerTalk is a community storytelling podcast dedicated to preserving Khmer voices, culture, and lived experiences. We create space for elders, youth, leaders, and everyday community members to share stories that reflect resilience, identity, and cultural wisdom. Each episode connects generations, honors our heritage, and highlights the experiences that shape our community. KhmerTalk exists to inspire understanding, strengthen cultural pride, and build a lasting digital archive of Khmer stories for future generations. Whether you are watching from Cambodia or anywhere around the world, this is your space to listen, learn, and connect. Subscribe to support community voices and cultural preservation.

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