SEA4 Podcast: Southeast Asian Athlete Achievement > Adversity

Samson, a man so powerful they say he could slay a lion with his bare hands. Much like his biblical namesake, Samson Phommabout’s life story is one of incredible strength and resilience. Raised in the shadows of Salt Lake City, Samson's early years were marred by the allure of gang life. It would take a brush with law enforcement and the tragic loss of a dear friend before he would confront the harsh realities of where his choices were taking him. He decided to trade the streets for the cage, channeling his energy into mixed martial arts. Samson would rise through the amateur ranks and into the pros. Through blood, sweat, and relentless dedication, he transformed himself into a professional fighter and tested the waters as an entrepreneur. Samson’s ultimate goal is to represent his Lao heritage on the international stage. https://www.instagram.com/wutsupsamson/ https://www.facebook.com/samson.phommabout Music: Summer of 1984 by RKVC Samson and the Lion photo y Barbara Maliszewska - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0 pl, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=28259878

The first generation walked, so that the second could run, and the third…could fly… Lost somewhere between Buddhist ancestors and Mormon neighbors, between his Lao heritage and the American dream Kyto Khouangrasvongsa would find his way home on the football field. Kyto began playing in high school before transitioning into the semi pros. When the team he was playing on went into default, Kyto paid off the debts and found himself at the helm as owner and general manager. Evolving from player to leader, football became more than a game—it became a crucible that forged Kyto's character. As he inherits the torch of life from his refugee parents, Kyto envisions a future where for his son, the field is only the launching pad. Kytos’ parents came from Laos as refugees. His older brother was born in the Nong Khai refugee camp while Kyto was born in Utah. www.laoamericansports.com Music: Summer of 1984 by RKVC

They say that a smooth sea has never made a skilled sailor. The odds were stacked against Jason Somachay in life. Growing up without a father, being raised by his immigrant grandparents and finding his way into the juvenile justice system. It was through the tumultuous seas of his youth that he discovered his anchor: martial arts. After being introduced to MMA by an uncle, Jason would rise through the south Florida amateur circuits and in 2012 made his professional debut. His journey as an athlete and person would come full circle when in 2024 he travelled to Laos and Thailand, re-connecting with his heritage, visiting the grave of a father that he never knew, embracing the spiritual side of Muay Thai and learning that at 37, his life was only beginning. https://www.instagram.com/somchay_muaythai/ https://www.instagram.com/raginasian_fightfitness/ Music: Summer of 1984 by RKVC

Rose Khun is the daughter of Cambodian refugees that resettled in the United States after fleeing the Khmer Rouge. Her parents operated a small video store in California where her father was killed in a robbery. The tragedy would impact Rose for years to come. Through somatic breathwork Rose was able to start her healing journey and ultimately forgive her father’s killer, a fellow Khmer Rouge survivor. In this episode host Ko Chandetka opens up about his own healing journey having lost his sister to homicide as well. https://www.youtube.com/@the_rosie_rose https://www.instagram.com/the_rosie_rose_/ https://rosierosebreathwork.my.canva.site/somaticbreathwork Music: Summer of 1984 by RKVC

From a small town in Maine to the lights of Bangkok, it’s the love of the game that has taken Jose Nouchathavong on a journey around the world. Jose began playing basketball as a child and would work his way onto the roster of a local community college before going on to play for University of Southern Maine. At a crossroads, contemplating a transition into the workforce, fate intervened with a unique opportunity – a chance to travel to Laos and proudly represent his heritage as a member of Team Luang Prabang in the Thai Basketball Super League. Basketball has taken Jose to places like Indonesia, Malaysia and even Armenia but in his heart, there is still unfinished business. His goal is to represent Laos at the SEA Games alongside fellow Lao-American, Bobby Syvanthong. https://www.laoamericansports.com/jose-nouchanthavong https://www.instagram.com/staysolidzay/ Photo/Video Credits D.O.G. Sports Maine: Rapidfire - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=7161757 Bangkok: Preecha.MJ - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=73234734

When the Lao American Sports Hall of Fame was founded over a cup of coffee in South Elgin, Illinois, we could have only imagined what it would become. About two years into our journey, we’ve inducted 25 athletes, featured countless rising stars, built bridges between athletes in Laos and the USA and made a few new friends along the way. The SEA Four Podcast was born out of the desire to give the Hall of Fame athletes and other inspiring individuals a platform to have their stories told. In a special addition we invite you to join us as we celebrate the release of our 50th episode. John and Ko will reflect on the first 50 episodes, the Lao American Sports Hall of Fame and the new non-profit, Lao International Sports NFP Music: Summer 1984 by RKVC

While we love the competition, the glory and the roar of the crowd there is so much more to sports and nowhere is this more evident than on the Rugby pitches of Laos. From the capital city to the rural villages rugby is making a positive impact across the country. Through the Lao Rugby Federation’s developmental programs and the transnational Weredragons Rugby club people are coming together from around the world and overseas Lao people are reconnecting with their heritage. In Laos rugby is not just a game; it's a life-changing opportunity for individuals to develop the skills and the tools they need to succeed in all aspects of life. Megan Knight is a former member of the U.S.A. women U19 national team now living in Laos. Viengsamai Souksavanh is the CEO of the Lao Rugby federation. Ana Lavongtheung is a Lao-American rugby player who has played on the Weredragons and with the Lao Rugby Federation. https://www.weredragonsrugby.com/ https://www.facebook.com/laorugby Music: Summer 1984 by RKVC Photos: Courtesy of the Lao Rugby Federation

Victor Hugo said, “What causes night in our souls, may have stars”. The 9/11 attacks drove Terry Rajsombath to enlist in the military and it wouldn’t be long before he was deployed to the front lines in Afghanistan.  After surviving a near fatal gunshot wound in a harrowing fire fight, Terry would face the ultimate battle of his life while trying to recover both physically and mentally. At the dawn of the darkest night in his life, Terry, would find a star and against the advice of doctors go on to complete one of the toughest sporting events invented, the Iron Man. While the battle with his injury may never truly end Terry will continue finding the stars in his life such as his clothing brand, Rhode Island Original.  https://www.instagram.com/terryrajsombath/  https://www.instagram.com/rhodeislandoriginal/ https://www.rhodeislandoriginal.com/ https://www.youtube.com/c/TerryRajsombath Music: Summer of 1984 by RKVC

The toughest moments in our lives can either break us, or make us. Brandon Thammavong was headed down a path of self-destruction, when in a defining moment he decided to make a change. Pouring everything into his mental and physical self, while harnessing his entrepreneurial spirt, Brandon, would conquer his past and forge a path into the future. He’s dabbled in bodybuilding and physical training but his greatest passion comes from helping others find their purpose through his platform, North Star Zenergy. Brandon Thammavong is a lifestyle and confidence coach. Originally from Westminster, CO he currently resides in Las Vegas. https://www.instagram.com/northstarzenergy/ https://www.northstarzenergy.com/ Music: Summer of 1984 by RKVC Photo Credit: Summer Tiwari

In life we make choices. Shortly after Rasi Chau landed in America, he strapped on a football helmet and put the war and devastation that had defined his early childhood behind him. Rasi would go on to play in high school, college and the ranks of the semi-pros before taking to the field as a coach and official. From Pewee to the Pros, Rasi has been sharing his knowledge, triumphs and struggles with the next generation of athletes for over 20 years. His story not only embodies the American spirit but also serves as a reminder that our past does not define us; but rather our choices and our perseverance is what truly shape our destiny. is a Khmer-America football coach from Lynn, MA. https://www.instagram.com/coachrasi/ Music: Summer 1984 by RKVC

How does a shy child from Long Beach end up fighting on Asian’s biggest MMA stage? After high school, Sovannarhry Em began training in boxing and martial arts. Initially focused on fun and fitness she quickly caught the eye of professional promoters. After winning her first few pro fights in dramatic fashion, Sovannahry boarded a plane for Malaysia and entered the cage as One Championship athlete. Sovannahry is currently taking a break from her MMA career but hopes to one day represent her Khmer heritage on the international stage as a member of team Cambodia. https://www.instagram.com/nahryem/ https://www.facebook.com/NahryEm Music: Summer 1986 by RKVC

Amatha Ratsombath was lost in life, floundering somewhere between the French ideals of Liberty, equality and fraternity and the urban ghettos of Paris filled with disenfranchised immigrant youth.  He would find a path in life through martial arts and after relocating to his ancestral homeland of Laos discover his inner self.  Amatha recently led the Lao national Brazilian Jiu Jitsu team to its first international competition at the 2023 SEA Games in Cambodia and is now preparing for a history making appearance at the 2023 Asian Games. His mission, to elevate the profile of Lao martial arts on the international stage.  https://www.instagram.com/bjjlaos/ https://www.facebook.com/BJJ.Laos Music: Summer of 1985 by RKVC Photo Credits Paris: By Yann Caradec from Paris, France - La Tour Eiffel vue de la Tour Saint-Jacques, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=34933538 Riot 1: By Toufik-de-Planoise - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=133832831  

Behind the triumphs and glory that grace the sporting arenas, there lies a lesser-known battle fought within the hearts and minds of these extraordinary individuals. Athlete Mental health, a topic often shrouded in silence but that holds immense importance. Behind every gold medal lies, trauma, self-doubt, fear and pain. From the darkest lows to our proudest moments, we'll discover the unbreakable spirit that resides within every athlete, reminding ourselves that mental health is not a barrier but a catalyst for extraordinary achievements. Guests include: David Boutsomsy, Peter Chanthaphone, and Malay Bouaphakeo. Warning: In this episode we discuss difficult subjects related to mental health including addiction and suicide. Music: Summer of 1984 by RKVC

To most people the 2021 Jimmy Kimmel L.A. Bowl was just another football game but to the Lao American community in was a moment of great pride as two Lao last names battled it out. AJ Vongphachanh rose from the youth football fields of western Washington to playing in a sold-out SoFi stadium on national television.  Behind his rise, a strong work ethic, an NFL dream and most importantly a supportive family. After an incredible four years at Utah State AJ has decided to finish out his college eligibility by helping BYU make the transition into one of college football’s top conferences, the Big 12.  Music: Summer 1984 by RKVC https://www.laoamericansports.com/aj-vongphachanh https://www.instagram.com/ajvong_/ https://twitter.com/aj_v25

Neil Diamond said, have you ever heard a story about a frog who dreamed of becoming a king, and then became one? Well except for the names and a few other changes if you’re talking about Leth Oun the story is the same one. Leth was a virtual slave under the Khmer Rouge but now protects the leader of the free world. After escaping the killing fields, transitioning through refugee camps and adapting to life in America, Leth joined the secret service. A pivotal moment in his life and career came when in 2012 he escorted President Barack Obama to the land of his birth, Cambodia. Leth chronicles his life’s journey is his new book, A Refugee’s American Dream. https://www.facebook.com/LethOunBook Music: Summer of 1984 by RKVC Photos Credits: From Leth Oun Ankor Wat By Bjørn Christian Tørrissen - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=3991230 Genocide By I, Inisheer, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=2529242 Obama: By East Asia and Pacific Media Hub U.S. Department of State - President Obama at ASEAN-U.S. Leaders' Meeting, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=31966463

How does a child go from a poor farming village in Laos to the top of a mountain? Opportunity, its what the American dream is ultimately all about.  After transiting through a refugee camp, Boomer Savanh, came to America as a child and went on to have a successful 27-year career in the U.S. Navy and is raising a family. As an athlete, he’s climbed to the top of some of the world’s most majestic mountains, endured 100-mile trail runs and competed in Marathons across the country.  If there is any opportunity that Boomer is taking advantage of here in America, its living life to its fullest.  Music: Summer 1984 by RKVC

Kenya Prach is a survivor of the Cambodian genocide, known as the killing fields. Destitute and clinging to life, Kenya entered a refugee in Thailand.  At night he would sneak out of the camp and fight for money in order to support his family. In America, with limited language and job skills Kenya would rely on his fighting skills again and pass on bokator and the ancient kun-khmer arts to a new generation.  His martial arts skills have become a platform to fight crimes against humanity, stop human trafficking, and bring positive change to individuals and the world.  Wanting to give a voice to those that were silenced by the Khmer Rouge Kenya published his life story in a book, Black Stone Hands. https://www.facebook.com/blackstonehands https://www.instagram.com/blackstonehands/ Buy Black Stone Hands: https://www.amazon.com/Black-Stone-Hands-Kenya-Prach/dp/1960572180 Music: Summer 1984 by RKVC

For many in the U.S. participation in competitive sports ends on the high school football field but for Jerry Sysourath and Tino Paophavihanh football was only the beginning. Rugby, a sport that has long been popular in the Asia Pacific Region is steadily gaining a following in America and became a completive poulet for Jerry and Tino. What started off as a hobby has taken the two men around the world. Competing in international matches, finding a community, and in the case of Tino, bringing him back to his ancestral homeland as a member of the Lao National Team.  Jerry: https://www.instagram.com/lame_hip_sti/ Tino: https://www.instagram.com/tpaophavihanh/   Music: Summer-1984 by RKVC

As Steve Hartman would say, “everybody has a story”. John Nammychai is no exception.  The child of refugees he guided himself into the world, jumping from planes, fighting in war, and realizing his version of an NFL dream on the semipro football field. John did this all while trying to understand who he is and to connect with his ancient Khmu heritage from Laos. This isn’t a story of an NFL star or Navy Seal, but rather a regular guy navigating through this complicated world.  Check out Sweet Rice Lao Thai Eats: https://www.sweetricewa.com/ Music: Summer 1984 by RKVC

Passion, its what drove Malay Boauphakeo from her humble begging in Storm Lake Iowa, to the softball diamond at Drake University. After graduating and entering the workforce her passion for competitive sports would lead her to found and compete on a roller derby team, the Des Monies Dames. Malay’s greatest passion in life might just be instilling it in others through her work as a life coach, IT recruiter and with her newly earned master’s degree in mental health counseling. https://www.instagram.com/thefullpursuitcoach/ Mucis: Summer of 1984 by RKVC