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In Episode 51 of Healing Out Lao’d, Rita sits down with one of the most crucial figures in her parents’ life—the person who helped connect her mother, Vilavanh, to her father, Phoutone, and played a crucial role in their escape from the Thailand refugee camps to the United States. Through this deeply reflective and intimate conversation, Rita uncovers a side of her family history she had never fully known. As stories unfold, she begins to understand the complex realities and circumstances that led Vilavanh—who was a Thai citizen at the time—to make the life-altering decision to leave everything behind and take refuge to the U.S. with Phoutone, without knowing his full background or history as a Lao refugee. This episode is an exploration of trust, survival, love, and the unseen decisions that shape generations—offering a rare and powerful glimpse into the personal histories that live beneath Lao diaspora narratives. ---------- SUBSCRIBE to HOL's new YouTube channel: youtube.com/@healingoutlaod ---------- RATE x REVIEW! HOL is a podcast and virtual practice space exploring Lao diaspora storytelling, healing, and tools for sustainability. Learn more at www.healingoutlaod.org Support HOL by leaving us a 5-star rating and a positive review to help this space flourish!!! ---------- SUSTAIN HOL: Help sustain this space for future generations by becoming a monthly sustainer at patreon.com/healingoutlaod OR by making a one-time donation via PayPal and write in the description “#sustainHOL” JOIN THE COMMUNITY of HOL @healingoutlaod on all major streaming and social media platforms.  Music: Andrew David Vilaythong Support the show

In Episode 50 of HOL, host Rita engages in a profound conversation with Richard Boussarath Malone aka "Riki B Malone" (he/they), a Licensed Master Esthetician and Reiki Master Teacher based in Fredericksburg, Virginia. Riki shares his unique background as a mixed-race individual with a Lao mother and a white American father, discussing the complexities of identity within the Lao American diaspora. He emphasizes the importance of rejecting fractional identities, advocating for a holistic understanding of self that transcends simplistic labels. The conversation delves into Riki's family history, including his grandfather's significant role during the Vietnam War and the family's journey to the United States, highlighting the nuances of cultural heritage and the impact of colonialism on personal identity. Throughout this important conversation, Riki reflects on his spiritual journey, particularly his practice of Reiki and its connections to both Buddhism and animism. He articulates the significance of honoring one's roots and the importance of understanding the origins of spiritual practices. The episode culminates in a rapid-fire round where Riki shares personal insights and advice for those exploring their spiritual paths. This rich dialogue not only sheds light on the Lao American experience but also invites listeners to consider their own identities and the legacies they carry. Connect with Riki via their Facebook Business page: Plumeria Beauty + Wellness or IG @rikidementia @plumeria.beauty.wellness  ---------- SUBSCRIBE to HOL's new YouTube channel: youtube.com/@healingoutlaod ---------- RATE x REVIEW! HOL is a podcast and virtual practice space exploring Lao diaspora storytelling, healing, and tools for sustainability. Learn more at www.healingoutlaod.org Support HOL by leaving us a 5-star rating and a positive review to help this space flourish!!! ---------- SUSTAIN HOL: Help sustain this space for future generations by becoming a monthly sustainer at patreon.com/healingoutlaod OR by making a one-time donation via PayPal and write in the description “#sustainHOL” JOIN THE COMMUNITY of HOL @healingoutlaod on all major streaming and social media platforms.  Music: Andrew David Vilaythong Support the show

In this episode of Healing Out Lao'd, host Rita shares personal updates, reflections on community engagement, and the importance of play in healing. Rita discusses her experiences with pickleball, hosting events, and wants to see YOU at either the upcoming Lao Friendsgiving Community Impact Dinner on November 10th at 5pm at Mekong Cuisine Lao and Thai (open to everyone +  allies/partners), and/or at the March 2026 HOL retreat (open to Lao-identified women and femmes) in San Diego.  ---------- SUBSCRIBE to HOL's new YouTube channel: youtube.com/@healingoutlaod ---------- RATE x REVIEW! HOL is a podcast and virtual practice space exploring Lao diaspora storytelling, healing, and tools for sustainability. Learn more at www.healingoutlaod.org Support HOL by leaving us a 5-star rating and a positive review to help this space flourish!!! ---------- SUSTAIN HOL: Help sustain this space for future generations by becoming a monthly sustainer at patreon.com/healingoutlaod, contributing through Zelle at [email protected] OR by making a one-time donation via PayPal and write in the description “#sustainHOL” JOIN THE COMMUNITY of HOL @healingoutlaod on all major streaming and social media platforms.  Music: Andrew David Vilaythong Support the show

In this episode, Rita engages in a conversation with Catzie Vilayphonh, an award-winning spoken word poet and community leader. They discuss Catzie's journey from being born in a refugee camp in Thailand to becoming a prominent figure in the Lao American arts community. The conversation explores themes of identity, storytelling, and the importance of community support. Catzie shares her experiences in organizing events, the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and her reflections on mental health. They also touch on the significance of cultural heritage and the ongoing impact of the Lao diaspora's history and movement work. The episode concludes with Catzie's thoughts on the future of the Lao American community and the need for continued dialogue about shared experiences. ---------- SUBSCRIBE to HOL's new YouTube channel: youtube.com/@healingoutlaod ---------- RATE x REVIEW! HOL is a podcast and virtual practice space exploring Lao diaspora storytelling, healing, and tools for sustainability. Learn more at www.healingoutlaod.org Support HOL by leaving us a 5-star rating and a positive review to help this space flourish!!! ---------- SUSTAIN HOL: Help sustain this space for future generations by becoming a monthly sustainer at patreon.com/healingoutlaod OR by making a one-time donation via PayPal and write in the description “#sustainHOL” JOIN THE COMMUNITY of HOL @healingoutlaod on all major streaming and social media platforms.  Music: Andrew David Vilaythong Support the show

On the 50th anniversary of the end of the Secret War in Laos, the Fall of Saigon, and the rise of the Khmer Rouge regime, this powerful conversation—hosted by the Los Angeles Public Library—brings together Lao American community leader and healing practitioner Rita Phetmixay and writer, director, and producer Kulap Vilaysack. Together, they reflect on the ripple effects of war, loss, migration, and survival that have shaped their Lao American experiences—and how, in the midst of those legacies, AAPI joy continues to thrive. The episode explores: Personal and family histories rooted in LaosThe emotional weight of inherited traumaThe ways storytelling, art, and community serve as tools of healingReclaiming joy as resistanceThe importance of uplifting Lao/Southeast Asian voices during AAPI Heritage Month and beyond📌 Why this matters: Too often, Lao and overall Southeast Asian refugee stories are erased or assimilated into broader Asian American narratives. This conversation centers those histories as living testaments to survival, creativity, and joy. 🔗 Highlights: Kulap on reclaiming her Lao identity through filmmaking and founding Laos AngelesRita on cultivating spaces for Lao diaspora mental health and healing intergenerational trauma The shared grief of erasure—and the hope found in community building🎉 AAPI Joy is not a luxury—it’s a birthright. 📚 Hosted by Los Angeles Public Library as part of their AAPI Heritage Month series  📍 Recorded live | May 2025 Support the show

In Episode 2 of Healing Out Lao’d, Rita unpacks Thailand’s role in the ongoing conflict with Cambodia through the lens of nationalism, colonial legacy, and cultural appropriation. With Lao and Thai Isaan roots, Rita reflects on how this war hits close to home — especially after her cousin had to evacuate due to a bomb hitting her city in Thailand. This episode further explores the history of the Preah Vihear Temple dispute, how borders drawn by colonial powers continue to drive tension, and how Thai nationalism and militarization are erasing Khmer and Lao cultural heritage in the name of sovereignty and control. This episode centers the emotional toll on Southeast Asian communities navigating both proximity to power and generational trauma from displacement. On July 28th, 2025, a ceasefire was brokered by ASEAN and Malaysia, though reports show that fighting still occurred after the deadline. With over 38 civilians killed and more than 300,000 displaced in under a week, this update episode offers space to grieve and reflect on how everyday people bear the cost of state violence. We discuss the fragile/skeptical nature of the peace deal, and how cultural sites like Preah Vihear continue to be weaponized. As always, this podcast holds space for truth-telling, rooted care, and collective reflection in the face of ongoing harm. ---------- SOURCES:  Franco-Siamese Treaty of 1907 (Wikipedia) – background on how colonial powers redrew bordersReuters – Q&A on Preah Vihear and tensionshttps://www.icj-cij.org/case/45AP News – Preah Vihear cultural disputesReuters – Ceasefire agreement – initial reporting on July 28 peace dealTIME – Overview of ceasefireReuters – Ceasefire breach report---------- SUBSCRIBE to HOL's new YouTube channel: youtube.com/@healingoutlaod ---------- RATE x REVIEW! HOL is a podcast and virtual practice space exploring Lao diaspora storytelling, healing, and tools for sustainability. Learn more at www.healingoutlaod.org Support HOL by leaving us a 5-star rating and a positive review to help this space flourish!!! ---------- SUSTAIN HOL: Help sustain this space for future generations by becoming a monthly sustainer at patreon.com/healingoutlaod OR by making a one-time donation via PayPal and write in the description “#sustainHOL” JOIN THE COMMUNITY of HOL @healingoutlaod on all major streaming and social media platforms.  Music: Andrew David Vilaythong Support the show

Episode 46 features Vekonda Luangaphay, founder of The Lao Project, a cultural movement that celebrates Lao identity through storytelling and community engagement. Vekonda shares her journey of exploring her roots, the significance of her last name, and the impact of her family's history on her identity as a Lao American. The conversation delves into the importance of community, mental health, and the role of storytelling in preserving cultural heritage. Vekonda emphasizes the need for vulnerability and connection in navigating one's identity and offers insights on how younger generations inspire change within the Lao diaspora. Connect w/Vekonda via her website at www.vekonda.com or follow her IG @iamkohnlao !!! ---------- SUBSCRIBE to HOL's new YouTube channel: youtube.com/@healingoutlaod ---------- RATE x REVIEW! HOL is a podcast and virtual practice space exploring Lao diaspora storytelling, healing, and tools for sustainability. Learn more at www.healingoutlaod.org Support HOL by leaving us a 5-star rating and a positive review to help this space flourish!!! ---------- SUSTAIN HOL: Help sustain this space for future generations by becoming a monthly sustainer at patreon.com/healingoutlaod OR by making a one-time donation via PayPal and write in the description “#sustainHOL” JOIN THE COMMUNITY of HOL @healingoutlaod on all major streaming and social media platforms.  Music: Andrew David Vilaythong Support the show

In this episode of Healing Out Lao'd, host Rita Phetmixay discusses the recent ICE raids in Los Angeles and their impact in context to the Lao diaspora and overall immigrant communities. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding rights, community support, and the need for solidarity in the face of state-sanctioned violence. Rita shares personal stories and actionable steps for listeners to support undocumented individuals and families, while also providing affirmations for the immigrant community. LINKS to Resources to Support Immigrants & Undocumented Community:  SEARAC.org ILRC Know Your Rights (Immigrant Legal Resource Center)CHIRLA (The Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights)Asian Law Caucus at 415-896-1701Southeast Asian Freedom Network---------- SUBSCRIBE to HOL's new YouTube channel: youtube.com/@healingoutlaod ---------- RATE x REVIEW! HOL is a podcast and virtual practice space exploring Lao diaspora storytelling, healing, and tools for sustainability. Learn more at www.healingoutlaod.org Support HOL by leaving us a 5-star rating and a positive review to help this space flourish!!! ---------- SUSTAIN HOL: Help sustain this space for future generations by becoming a monthly sustainer at patreon.com/healingoutlaod OR by making a one-time donation via PayPal and write in the description “#sustainHOL” JOIN THE COMMUNITY of HOL @healingoutlaod on all major streaming and social media platforms.  Music: Andrew David Vilaythong Support the show

Episode 45 features a conversation with Tina Meetran—visual artist, children’s book author, and nonprofit leader—who joined Rita on the pod to talk about her journey as a Lao American growing up in Rhode Island. Tina opens up about family dynamics and what it was like growing up as an eldest Lao daughter and finding out at 16yo her parent’s immigration status that led to her dad facing deportation.  Ultimately, this episode highlights Tina’s children’s book Nana Makes Spring Rolls and why investing in yourself is part of the healing journey. This episode is full of gems on Lao diaspora resilience, self-worth, and reclaiming one’s cultural identity through art and advocacy. Connect w/Tina via her website at www.littlenanacooks.com or follow her IG @littlenanacooks !!! ---------- SUBSCRIBE to HOL's new YouTube channel: youtube.com/@healingoutlaod ---------- RATE x REVIEW! HOL is a podcast and virtual practice space exploring Lao diaspora storytelling, healing, and tools for sustainability. Learn more at www.healingoutlaod.org Support HOL by leaving us a 5-star rating and a positive review to help this space flourish!!! ---------- SUSTAIN HOL: Help sustain this space for future generations by becoming a monthly sustainer at patreon.com/healingoutlaod OR by making a one-time donation via PayPal and write in the description “#sustainHOL” JOIN THE COMMUNITY of HOL @healingoutlaod on all major streaming and social media platforms.  Music: Andrew David Vilaythong Support the show

Episode 44 is a recording of Souvankham Thammavongsa's Book Talk at the March 2024 HOL Wellness Retreat at Joshua Tree, CA. In this talk, Souvankham shares her journey as a Lao Canadian short story writer & poet of 2 decades, and explores the themes of Lao identity, cultural/family heritage, and the creative process. This conversation highlights the importance of sharing your authentic voice, leaning into self-trust and being your own source of inspiration.  Connect w/Souvankham via her website at www.souvankham-thammavongsa.com or follow her IG @souvankhamthammavongsa !!! ---------- SUBSCRIBE to HOL's new YouTube channel: youtube.com/@healingoutlaod ---------- RATE x REVIEW! HOL is a podcast and virtual practice space exploring Lao diaspora storytelling, healing, and tools for sustainability. Learn more at www.healingoutlaod.org Support HOL by leaving us a 5-star rating and a positive review to help this space flourish!!! ---------- SUSTAIN HOL: Help sustain this space for future generations by becoming a monthly sustainer at patreon.com/healingoutlaod OR by making a one-time donation via PayPal and write in the description “#sustainHOL” JOIN THE COMMUNITY of HOL @healingoutlaod on all major streaming and social media platforms.  Music: Andrew David Vilaythong Support the show

In episode 43, Phatsaline "Pat" Vongsaly reflects on her experiences of co-founding Gamlangchai, a community-based organization/social enterprise founded in 2020, who's mission is “Making basic mental health support accessible in Laos.”  Together, Rita and Pat discuss Pat's upbringing in Vientiane + her process of attending higher education in Sydney Australia, the cultural perceptions of mental health in Laos, and the challenges faced in advocating for mental health access in a country with limited resources. Ultimately, this conversation highlights the impact of COVID-19 on mental health discussions, the importance of community advocacy, and the future projects of Gamlangchai aimed at empowering youth and promoting mental well-being across various school groups and institutions. Connect w/Pat and her team via email: [email protected] + visit their website at www.gamlangchai.org and/or Facebook/IG @gamlangchai !!! ---------- SUBSCRIBE to HOL's new YouTube channel: youtube.com/@healingoutlaod ---------- RATE x REVIEW! HOL is a podcast and virtual practice space exploring Lao diaspora storytelling, healing, and tools for sustainability. Learn more at www.healingoutlaod.org Support HOL by leaving us a 5-star rating and a positive review to help this space flourish!!! ---------- SUSTAIN HOL: Help sustain this space for future generations by becoming a monthly sustainer at patreon.com/healingoutlaod OR by making a one-time donation via PayPal and write in the description “#sustainHOL” JOIN THE COMMUNITY of HOL @healingoutlaod on all major streaming and social media platforms.  Music: Andrew David Vilaythong Support the show

In episode 42, Aleena reflects on her journey as a Lao diaspora leader, from which she shares her upbringing in Virginia, her past work with Legacies of War, and her current leadership role in the Lao Food Movement. This conversation highlights navigating imposter syndrome, challenging experiences/controversies within the Lao community (surrounding the VA/DC temple), and the power of food in connecting people and preserving cultural heritage. Ultimately, Aleena emphasizes the need for transparency and trust in order to move forward and heal collective community trauma. Connect w/Aleena via email [email protected] or IG @laofoodmovement !!! ---------- SUBSCRIBE to HOL's new YouTube channel: youtube.com/@healingoutlaod ---------- RATE x REVIEW! HOL is a podcast and virtual practice space exploring Lao diaspora storytelling, healing, and tools for sustainability. Learn more at www.healingoutlaod.org Support HOL by leaving us a 5-star rating and a positive review to help this space flourish!!! ---------- SUSTAIN HOL: Help sustain this space for future generations by becoming a monthly sustainer at patreon.com/healingoutlaod OR by making a one-time donation via PayPal and write in the description “#sustainHOL” JOIN THE COMMUNITY of HOL @healingoutlaod on all major streaming and social media platforms.  Music: Andrew David Vilaythong Support the show

In episode 41, Healing Out Lao'd host Rita Phetmixay engages in a heartfelt conversation with  Vilayvanh Bender, a Lao American children's book author and registered dietitian. Vanh shares her journey as a 1.5 generation immigrant/refugee, her childhood memories in Laos, and the importance of cultural representation through literature. The discussion delves into Vanh's motivations for writing Mommy Eats Fried Grasshoppers, her career trajectory into becoming a registered dietitian, and the significance of mental and physical health in her life and work. Vanh emphasizes the need for cultural preservation and encourages listeners to connect with their elders and embrace their heritage. Connect w/ Vilayvanh on IG @mommyeatsfriedgrasshoppers or TikTok @mommyeatsgrasshoppers  ---------- SUBSCRIBE to HOL's new YouTube channel: youtube.com/@healingoutlaod ---------- RATE x REVIEW! HOL is a podcast and virtual practice space exploring Lao diaspora storytelling, healing, and tools for sustainability. Learn more at www.healingoutlaod.org Support HOL by leaving us a 5-star rating and a positive review to help this space flourish!!! ---------- SUSTAIN HOL: Help sustain this space for future generations by becoming a monthly sustainer at patreon.com/healingoutlaod OR by making a one-time donation via PayPal and write in the description “#sustainHOL” JOIN THE COMMUNITY of HOL @healingoutlaod on all major streaming and social media platforms.  Music: Andrew David Vilaythong Support the show

In episode 40, Healing Out Lao'd host Rita Phetmixay sits down with Rina B Herman, fellow Lao/Vietnamese/Southeast Asian American therapist & social worker based in Ohio. They explore the stigma surrounding mental health in Lao communities, the role of social work in promoting mental health awareness, and confronting harmful Lao phrases from parents to kids growing up, and shifting the narrative of what it means to seek support especially within the Southeast Asian diaspora. **trigger warning**: this episode contains triggering phrases you might have heard as a kid growing up in a Lao household, so please be gentle with yourself while listening.  Connect w/Rina on IG @rinabherman or TikTok @rinab_ ---------- SUBSCRIBE to HOL's new YouTube channel: youtube.com/@healingoutlaod ---------- RATE x REVIEW! HOL is a podcast and virtual practice space exploring Lao diaspora storytelling, healing, and tools for sustainability. Learn more at www.healingoutlaod.org Support HOL by leaving us a 5-star rating and a positive review to help this space flourish!!! ---------- SUSTAIN HOL: Help sustain this space for future generations by becoming a monthly sustainer at patreon.com/healingoutlaod OR by making a one-time donation via PayPal and write in the description “#sustainHOL” JOIN THE COMMUNITY of HOL @healingoutlaod on all major streaming and social media platforms.  Music: Andrew David Vilaythong Support the show

In episode 39, Healing Out Lao'd host Rita Phetmixay sits down with Khoulapsavanh (Khoulap for short), fellow Lao podcaster based in Germany. They delve into Khoulap's family refugee/migration history, the challenges of navigating cultural identity, and the importance of self-care and mental health practices. Khoulap shares her proud moments, advice for the younger generation, and the significance of community connection through her podcast, Khouli Connects. Connect w/Khoulap on IG @khouliconnects ---------- SUBSCRIBE to HOL's new YouTube channel: youtube.com/@healingoutlaod ---------- RATE x REVIEW! HOL is a podcast and virtual practice space exploring Lao diaspora storytelling, healing, and tools for sustainability. Learn more at www.healingoutlaod.org Support HOL by leaving us a 5-star rating and a positive review to help this space flourish!!! ---------- SUSTAIN HOL: Help sustain this space for future generations by becoming a monthly sustainer at patreon.com/healingoutlaod OR by making a one-time donation via PayPal and write in the description “#sustainHOL” JOIN THE COMMUNITY of HOL @healingoutlaod on all major streaming and social media platforms.  Music: Andrew David Vilaythong Support the show