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.

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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!!!

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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

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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

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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.

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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