Passport Profiles: The Forbidden Island Legacy & Lei Traditions with Emily Harper

Join us on Passport Profiles as travel hosts Franco & Shannon sit down with Emily Harper of Hawaii Flower Lei to explore the deep roots of Hawaiian culture — from Niʻihau (“the Forbidden Island”) to shell lei craftsmanship and the living language of ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi. In this episode you’ll discover: The Sinclair/R­obinson family legacy and how Emily continues that connection How authentic Hawaiian leis are made — beyond the “tourist garland” — and the meaningful stories they carry Surprising truth vs myth about Niʻihau: language, access, and life on the island Tips for respectful, culturally rooted travel in Hawaiʻi Ways travelers can honor tradition, support land stewardship (mālama ʻāina), and experience deeper cultural exchange Whether you’re planning Hawaiʻi-bound travels or simply fascinated by island heritage, this episode is your gateway to aloha in action.