Episode 173: How Hope Helped Sara Im Survive Genocide and Rebuild a Life of Purpose

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On the Live The Width of Your Life podcast, we explore what it means to not only live the length of our life but instead the breadth, depth, and purpose of each day.  

She shares her personal story of creating balance in her life by aligning her daily choices to life values, strategies to redefine success, and creating space for a bit of magic and synchronicity.  

It's never too late to change! We don't need to have it all figured out to begin; we can take action daily, show up imperfectly, and be amazed and inspired by how beautiful life can be.  


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What happens when everything is taken from you—and you still choose hope?

Sara Im survived four years of captivity during Cambodia's genocide, a period that claimed nearly two million lives. Today, she's an award-winning author, inspirational speaker, and founder of Smart Healthy Living—a wellness company dedicated to helping others thrive.

This conversation isn't just about survival. It's about the spiritual strength that emerges when everything is stripped away. It's about choosing hope when fear seems like the only option. And it's about rebuilding—not just a life, but a soul.

If you've ever felt trapped in your own life—by burnout, expectations, or circumstances beyond your control—Sara's story will remind you that you have more resilience within you than you know.

In This Episode, You'll Discover:

  • How hope and faith become your anchor when everything else falls away

  • Why emotional bonds and human connections are essential to healing and resilience

  • What it takes to rebuild your life after profound trauma or loss

  • The role of courage, community, and inner belief in the healing journey

  • How sharing your story becomes one of the most powerful acts of service and healing

Perfect for: Seekers, leaders, high-achievers navigating transition or burnout, anyone rebuilding their life, survivors of hardship, and those looking for spiritual strength and courage to move forward.

About Sara Im:

Sara Im is an award-winning author, inspirational speaker, and entrepreneur. After surviving the Cambodian genocide and escaping to the United States, she completed her education and went on to build a successful career and business. Her memoir, How I Survived the Killing Fields, has inspired thousands with its message of hope, resilience, and the power of the human spirit. Through her speaking and her wellness company, Smart Healthy Living, Sara continues to empower others to overcome adversity and live with purpose.

Learn more about Sara:

Read full transcript below:

About Your Host

Aneta Ardelian Kuzma is a holistic life coach, wellness expert, and yoga and meditation teacher, who explores what it means to live more fully, with intention, gratitude, and joy.

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