Healing Out Lao'd

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 healingoutlaod@gmail.com 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

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 415-896-1701 ---------- 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: hello@gamlangchai.org + 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 aleena@laofood.org 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 Khoulap Savanh, 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

In episode 38, Healing Out Lao'd host Rita Phetmixay sits down with Ketsana Roberts, a leader in the Asian American diaspora and VP of Community Relations for Ascend. They discuss Ketsana's journey of reconnecting with her roots, growing up in a predominantly Lao neighborhood in Spartanburg, South Carolina, and the challenges of navigating bi/cultural identity. Ketsana shares her experiences of resilience, the importance of relationship building, and the impact of her upbringing on her current role as a leader. Connect w/Ketsana on IG @_KTSN_ and/or sign up to the mailing list on www.ascendcharlotte.org ---------- 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

This episode features Dr. Phitsamay Sychitkokhong Uy, who shares her experiences of growing up navigating the public school systems and eventually graduating as the first Lao American refugee to receive a Doctorate of Education from Harvard University!!! Rita and Dr. Phitsamay discuss topics on intergenerational trauma, her family's escape from "Secret War" in Laos and rebuilding a community of support in the United States. Dr. Phitsamay demonstrates how to feel your emotions and get in touch with the reality of war violence, while also exuding compassionate leadership qualities in educational spaces and beyond. Follow Dr. Phitsamay on her foodie IG @funfriendsnfood and/or email her at phitsamayuy@gmail.com to connect! ---------- 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

Healing Out Lao'd finally re-launches another season after a couple years of challenges and growth pains! In this trailer, Rita introduces the continued themes of the upcoming season focused on healing, resilience, and community within the Lao diaspora. The conversation delves into personal updates, including the host's achievements and experiences, as well as the challenges of navigating grief and friendship transitions. The episode concludes with an exciting preview of what to expect in Season Three, emphasizing the importance of digging deeper into transformation. 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 this week's surprise episode of Healing Out Lao'd, we released PART 2 of the Sabaidee Fest Reflection Series!!! [Sabaidee Fest is the largest Southeast Asian music and cultural festival] Part 2 takes a deep dive and highlights the POV of 4 Lao-identified diaspora attendees of Sabaidee Fest: Somlit, Joy, and Susan!!! Individually and collectively, all reflect on the festival's scenery, food, culture, music, and the ultimately question: what does it mean to be a part of the Lao American diaspora community??! If you missed out and have FOMO and want to know what went down during the first Sabaidee Fest from these unique lens, this episode is for you!!! ---------- SUBSCRIBE x FOLLOW x RATE x REVIEW! HOL is a podcast and virtual practice space exploring Lao diaspora storytelling, healing, and tools for sustainability. Learn more at 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 “#HOLdonation” JOIN THE COMMUNITY of HOL @healingoutlaod on all major streaming and social media platforms including Instagram & Twitter  & Facebook. Who are you and what is your story as a child of the Lao diaspora? Comment/share and let us know!!! Music: Andrew David Vilaythong Logo design: Salong Namsa of Laos Supply Website: KitsCreativ (Tony Innouvong x La Keodouangkham) HOL Advisory Board: Wanda Pathomrit, Saengthong Douangdara, Kulap Vilaysack Support the show

LONG TIME NO SPEAK P'NONG!!! On this week's surprise episode of Healing Out Lao'd, we are reflecting and reminiscing our experiences of the largest Southeast Asian music and cultural festival-- Sabaidee Fest!!! This episode is PART 1 of a 2 PART SABAIDEE FEST REFLECTION SERIES that is intentional in highlighting the POV of 2 Lao-identified diaspora attendees of Sabaidee Fest. Saeng and Rita unpack raw emotions from attending the festival's scenery, food, culture, community growth, and most importantly-- LAO JOYYY. If you missed out and have FOMO and want to know what went down during the first Sabaidee Fest, this episode is for you!!! ---------- SUBSCRIBE x FOLLOW x RATE x REVIEW! HOL is a podcast and virtual practice space exploring Lao diaspora storytelling, healing, and tools for sustainability. Learn more at 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 “#HOLdonation” JOIN THE COMMUNITY of HOL @healingoutlaod on all major streaming and social media platforms including Instagram & Twitter  & Facebook. Who are you and what is your story as a child of the Lao diaspora?  Music: Andrew David Vilaythong Logo design: Salong Namsa of Laos Supply Website: KitsCreativ (Tony Innouvong x La Keodouangkham) HOL Advisory Board: Wanda Pathomrit, Saengthong Douangdara, Kulap Vilaysack Support the show

FINAL SZN 2.0 Episode 34 features a conversation between creator/host Rita Phetmixay and actor/co-host of Laos Angeles Deuan Sabaidee, Somlit Inthalangsy! During this episode, Somlit speaks on returning to his Lao name + embodying dad's legacy of community organizing & finding home away from home in Laos Angeles. As the co-host of the Laos Angeles Deuan Sabaidee, Somlit organizes monthly gatherings for LA/Orange County community members who have roots in Laos to connect and build sustainable relationships. Today, Somlit is taking a break from social media and acting to focus on personal development and empowerment through journaling and meditative practices.   ---------- CONNECT WITH SOMLIT:  www.somlit.com IG- @somlit_ ---------- SUBSCRIBE x FOLLOW x RATE x REVIEW!  HOL is a podcast and virtual practice space exploring Lao diaspora storytelling, healing, and tools for sustainability. Learn more at 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 “#HOLdonation” JOIN THE COMMUNITY of HOL @healingoutlaod on all major streaming and social media platforms including Instagram & Twitter  & Facebook. Who are you and what is your story as a child of the Lao diaspora? Comment/share and let us know!!!  Music & Audio Editing: Andrew David Vilaythong Logo design: Salong Namsa of Laos Supply Website: KitsCreativ (Tony Innouvong x La Keodouangkham) HOL Advisory Board: Wanda Pathomrit, Saengthong Douangdara, Kulap Vilaysack Huge KOP JAI to Critical Refugee Studies Collective (with assistance from JoJo Ramirez) for funding SZN2.0 episodes. The Critical Refugee Studies Collective envisions a world where all refugees are treated and embraced as fellow human beings with all fundamental rights and privileges.  Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/user?u=16105981)

Episode 33 features a conversation between creator/host Rita Phetmixay and founder of Courageous Kitchen & TukTuk Box enterprises, Christy Innouvong-Thornton! During this episode, Christy reflects on her painful experiences of growing up in a white household (w/o her Lao Isan parents) + moving beyond narratives of forced resilience & giving back through Southeast Asian foodways.  Today, Christy is living her best life in North Carolina, while feeding, educating and creating socioeconomic advancement for Southeast Asian people through TukTuk Box, a specialty food retailer storytelling platform.   ---------- CONNECT WITH CHRISTY:  Tuk Tuk Box website Tuk Tuk Box IG Courageous Kitchen ---------- SUBSCRIBE x FOLLOW x RATE x REVIEW!  HOL is a podcast and virtual practice space exploring Lao diaspora storytelling, healing, and tools for sustainability. Learn more at 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 “#HOLdonation” JOIN THE COMMUNITY of HOL @healingoutlaod on all major streaming and social media platforms including Instagram & Twitter  & Facebook. Who are you and what is your story as a child of the Lao diaspora? Comment/share and let us know!!!  Music & Audio Editing: Andrew David Vilaythong Logo design: Salong Namsa of Laos Supply Website: KitsCreativ (Tony Innouvong x La Keodouangkham) HOL Advisory Board: Wanda Pathomrit, Saengthong Douangdara, Kulap Vilaysack Huge KOP JAI to Critical Refugee Studies Collective (with assistance from JoJo Ramirez) for funding SZN2.0 episodes. The Critical Refugee Studies Collective envisions a world where all refugees are treated and embraced as fellow human beings with all fundamental rights and privileges.  Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/user?u=16105981)

Episode 32 features a conversation between creator/host Rita Phetmixay and music maker/DJ/audio editor of HOL– Andrew David Vilaythong! During this episode, Andrew reflects on his experiences of growing up with a parent suffering from mental illness + therapy as a tool for addressing conflict-avoidant behaviors & making music as self-exploration.  Today, Andrew continues to thrive in his creativity thru DJing/producing beats and being the best plant dad he can be to his 15+ plant children in Los Angeles.  ---------- CONNECT WITH ANDREW @AndrewDavidV:  Instagram  Website Spotify -KEEP GROWING- ADV Plant Playlist ---------- SUBSCRIBE x FOLLOW x RATE x REVIEW!  HOL is a podcast and virtual practice space exploring Lao diaspora storytelling, healing, and tools for sustainability. Learn more at 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 “#HOLdonation” JOIN THE COMMUNITY of HOL @healingoutlaod on all major streaming and social media platforms including Instagram & Twitter  & Facebook. Who are you and what is your story as a child of the Lao diaspora? Comment/share and let us know!!!  Music & Audio Editing: Andrew David Vilaythong Logo design: Salong Namsa of Laos Supply Website: KitsCreativ (Tony Innouvong x La Keodouangkham) HOL Advisory Board: Wanda Pathomrit, Saengthong Douangdara, Kulap Vilaysack Huge KOP JAI to Critical Refugee Studies Collective (with assistance from JoJo Ramirez) for funding SZN2.0 episodes. The Critical Refugee Studies Collective envisions a world where all refugees are treated and embraced as fellow human beings with all fundamental rights and privileges.  Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/user?u=16105981)

Episode 31 brings back the #HealingTheHealer series, which was first created in order to share the experiences of people in Rita’s lives that have empowered her healing process. In this first episode of 2022, Rita dives into a conversation with Stephanie Franco (aka “SPESH”), who is a creative writer, audio storyteller and sound designer/engineer based in Oakland, California.   During this episode, Stephanie  reflects on her experiences of growing up in the BAY AREA (Haywaaard), writing as resistance, cultivating mental health equity for BIPOC across Cali & tapping into radical imagination. ---------- CONNECT WITH STEPHANIE:  @stephaneezyy Twitter @stephaneezzyy Instagram  @werkwyphyz Podcast IG Website ---------- REFERENCES:  Werk Wyphyz Podcast Locatora Radio Production  Omega Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.  ---------- SUBSCRIBE x FOLLOW x RATE x REVIEW!  HOL is a podcast and virtual practice space exploring Lao diaspora storytelling, healing, and tools for sustainability. Learn more at 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 “#HOLdonation” JOIN THE COMMUNITY of HOL @healingoutlaod on all major streaming and social media platforms including Instagram & Twitter  & Facebook. Who are you and what is your story as a child of the Lao diaspora? Comment/share and let us know!!!  Music & Audio Editing: Andrew David Vilaythong Logo design: Salong Namsa of Laos Supply Website: KitsCreativ (Tony Innouvong x La Keodouangkham) HOL Advisory Board: Wanda Pathomrit, Saengthong Douangdara, Kulap Vilaysack Huge KOP JAI to Critical Refugee Studies Collective (with assistance from JoJo Ramirez) for funding SZN2.0 episodes. The Critical Refugee Studies Collective envisions a world where all refugees are treated and embraced as fellow human beings with all fundamental rights and privileges.  Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/user?u=16105981)

This episode features a conversation between creator/host Rita Phetmixay and the talented Lao American musician and family woman, Lina V Luangrath. During this episode, Lina reflects on her experiences of growing up in an impoverished Lao/BIPOC community in Rockford, Illinois + overcoming domestic violence + finding inner liberation thru music,  & meeting Lao ancestors for the first time.   Today, Lina is living the dream by singing/performing on various stages across Los Angeles, as well as building community with hosting events. She also enjoys cheffing it up in the kitchen and cooks SAAP SAAP Lao food and Jamaican oxtail stew.  ---------- CONTENT WARNING:  This episode mentions content on childhood developmental trauma, domestic violence/abuse, depression, grief, and loss. Please take care of yourselves before deciding to listen.  Domestic Violence Hotline: 1.800.799.SAFE (7233) ---------- CONNECT WITH LINA:  @linavmusic Instagram @linavmusic Facebook Website Spotify YouTube SoundCloud ---------- SUBSCRIBE x FOLLOW x RATE x REVIEW!  HOL is a podcast and virtual practice space exploring Lao diaspora storytelling, healing, and tools for sustainability. Learn more at 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 “#HOLdonation” JOIN THE COMMUNITY of HOL @healingoutlaod on all major streaming and social media platforms including Instagram & Twitter  & Facebook. Who are you and what is your story as a child of the Lao diaspora? Comment/share and let us know!!!  Music & Audio Editing: Andrew David Vilaythong Logo design: Salong Namsa of Laos Supply Website: KitsCreativ (Tony Innouvong x La Keodouangkham) HOL Advisory Board: Wanda Pathomrit, Saengthong Douangdara, Kulap Vilaysack Huge KOP JAI to Critical Refugee Studies Collective (with assistance from JoJo Ramirez) for funding SZN2.0 episodes. The Critical Refugee Studies Collective envisions a world where all refugees are treated and embraced as fellow human beings with all fundamental rights and privileges.  Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/user?u=16105981)