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PODCAST · leisure

Da Best Hawaii

An insightful look into the people, places and paradise that is Hawaii. Award-winning writer and journalist, Olena Heu chats with Hawaii folks about culture, cuisine and crafts of the islands of Aloha and so much more.

  1. 167

    Comedian, Single Father, Samoan in Hawai‘i - James Mane

    New episode of Da Best Hawai‘i featuring comedian and single father James Mane.From dreams of becoming a pro football player to working as a bus driver, James shares how a life-changing injury shifted his path—bringing him back home to Hawai‘i where he found purpose in family and comedy.Watch now on YouTube and listen on Spotify, iHeartRadio, and Apple Podcasts.

  2. 166

    Radio Personality, News Anchor, Sought After Emcee - Maleko McDonnell

    Brand new episode of Da Best Hawai‘i features Maleko McDonnell—a familiar voice across radio, local television news, and stages statewide. He opens up about his upbringing, his journey into broadcast journalism, and the Hawai‘i legends who helped shape his path.Watch now on YouTube and listen on Spotify, iHeartRadio, and Apple Podcasts.

  3. 165

    Hawaiian Rights Advocate, Sustainability & Agriculture Expert - Daniel Anthony

    This month we chat with the incredibly passionate and deeply knowledgeable advocate for our ʻāina, our community, and our home, Daniel Anthony. A Waiʻanae native, Daniel shares how his upbringing shaped his commitment to Hawaiian rights, agriculture, and sustainability. From organic farming practices to the meaningful steps he’s taking to protect and preserve our precious resources and land, his story is both powerful and inspiring.

  4. 164

    Filmmaker, Writer, Casting Director and LGBTQ+ Advocate - Brent Anbe

    On this episode of Da Best Hawai‘i Unedited,  learn about the television and film industry in Hawai‘i, Brent's role as a casting agent/associate and why Hawai‘i people love high school graduations.  

  5. 163

    The Birthday Celebration That Never Happened

    A comical recap of a "special night out to celebrate your birthday" that never happened, or did it!?

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    Journalist, Storyteller, Mother - Diane Ako

    Rooted in Hawai‘i and driven by purpose! On this episode of Da Best Hawai‘i Unedited, a fascinating chat with Diane Ako (news anchor of 25 years and PR professional) shares her journey, wisdom, and the values that guide her work and community impact. A conversation about family, culture, and doing what your heart guides you to do. Listen to the podcast on Spotify, iHeart and Apple Podcasts. Mahalo to Arden Waikiki for such a wonderful venue.

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    Sobriety, Addiction, Inspiring Others - Kekoa Pure Aloha

    Meet inspiring Kekoa Pure Aloha Carvalho - Ewa Beach native who has a commitment to voluntarily helping others, sharing his story of sobriety, reflecting on addiction, overdose and how to help others. 

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    Legendary Hawai‘i Hula Photographer Kim Taylor Reece

    New Episode Out Now! On Da Best Hawai‘i Unedited - we sit down with legendary Hawai‘i photographer and artist Kim Taylor Reece, whose iconic hula and wahine imagery has captured hearts around the world. From the stories behind his most famous photographs to the deeper meaning of preserving Hawaiian culture through art — this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. Watch or listen now on YouTube, Facebook, Spotify, Apple and iHeart Podcasts.Big Mahalo to Arden Waikiki located at The Lotus Waikiki, congratulations on being awarded numerous Hale Aina Awards this year for best service, desserts and cocktail program. Thank you to Yumi Kim located at Royal Hawaiian Center for Olena's stunning wardrobe. Be sure to checkout the fabulous designs from day to night for any occasion. #DaBestHawaii #KimTaylorReece #HulaArt #HawaiianCulture #PodcastEpisode #LocalLegends #HawaiiCreatives

  15. 153

    Actress, Comedian, Voice Actor and Hawai‘i Resident: Amy Hill

    🎙️ New Da Best Hawaii Unedited Episode Alert!We’re joined by the legendary Amy Hill—actress, comedian, and theatre icon. From Magnum P.I. to All-American Girl to voicing unforgettable characters in animation (psst... Lilo & Stitch), Amy shares her journey, her roots in Hawaii, and what keeps her inspired. 🌺✨Tune in for laughs, wisdom, and a whole lot of aloha. 🎧 @amy hill actorBig thank you to Arden Waikiki located in the Lotus Waikiki for this wonderful venue, which is perfect for your special night our or date night dinner! 

  16. 152

    Radio personality, devoted mom and wife - Crystal Akana Pang

    Crystal Akana Pang — a 21-year radio veteran, devoted wife, mother, and proud Native Hawaiian — embodies perseverance, passion, and the true spirit of aloha. Learn more about this familiar face and voice who hails from Oahu and was also featured on American Idol. 

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    Da Best Hawai‘i Unedited starts next week!

    Da Best Hawai‘i Unedited starts next week! Watch brand new monthly shows highlighting notable people from Hawai‘i. Dive into full length conversations and in-depth chats with some of Hawaii's most loved residents and more.Stay tuned for monthly episodes right here on Da Best Hawai‘i FB, IG, YouTube and Podcasts including Apple Podcasts, Spotify and iHeart. Mahalo to Arden Waikiki for this beautiful venue and be sure to check them out for dinner, drinks and happy hour Wednesday-Sunday evenings (located at the Lotus Hotel).

  19. 149

    DBH Update + Bad Hotel Experience

    2025 is changing for Da Best Hawai‘i find new longform episodes coming soon, and a 5-star resort on Maui really drops the ball and leaves a bad taste in my mouth after a stay I booked and paid for is overall negative from check in to check out. 

  20. 148

    Popular New York Steakhouse Comes to Hawai‘i

    Empire Steakhouse comes to Hawai‘i atop an iconic location in Waikiki with breathtaking views from the mountains to the sea! This brand new restaurant is serving New York steaks along with fine seafood and imported cheese. 

  21. 147

    Cirque du Soleil in Hawai‘i

    Learn about the brand new Hawai‘i show Cirque du Soleil 'Auana in Waikiki. 

  22. 146

    New Chef Making Waves on Maui

    There's a new chef on Maui hoping to grow some roots at The Ritz Carlton Kapalua's Banyan Tree. Fresh ideas, new creations and experimental dishes can be sampled at the brand new Chef's Table. Learn more about the Chef's creative dreams and culinary evolution. 

  23. 145

    Sun Tea Mix Revamped & Pet-Friendly

    A popular milk tea spot is under new ownership, revamped the dining room and hopes guests will come, hang out, bring their furry friends and bring back milk tea culture. Learn more about Sun Tea Mix and their milk tea, smoothies and souffle pancakes. 

  24. 144

    Learn about U.H. Cancer Center

    There's a hidden gem in Kaka'ako when it comes to cancer research, education, care and community outreach. With it being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, learn more about University of Hawaii Cancer Center.

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    Actor Stephen Hill Waikiki Resident

    Chatting with Stephen Hill post-Magnum PI and The Color Purple. 

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

An insightful look into the people, places and paradise that is Hawaii. Award-winning writer and journalist, Olena Heu chats with Hawaii folks about culture, cuisine and crafts of the islands of Aloha and so much more.

HOSTED BY

Olena Heu

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Da Best Hawaii have?

Da Best Hawaii currently has 50 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Da Best Hawaii about?

An insightful look into the people, places and paradise that is Hawaii. Award-winning writer and journalist, Olena Heu chats with Hawaii folks about culture, cuisine and crafts of the islands of Aloha and so much more.

How often does Da Best Hawaii release new episodes?

Da Best Hawaii has 50 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to Da Best Hawaii?

You can listen to Da Best Hawaii on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Da Best Hawaii?

Da Best Hawaii is created and hosted by Olena Heu.
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