Island Fever

In this episode of Island Fever Podcast, hosts Vaelupe, Krit, and Donato sit down with drag icon, performer, and RuPaul's Drag Race winner Sasha Colby for an intimate conversation about purpose, legacy, and what comes after achieving the dreams you've spent your life chasing.From growing up in Waimānalo, Hawaiʻi, to becoming the first Native Hawaiian and openly transgender woman to win RuPaul's Drag Race, Sasha reflects on the people, places, and culture that shaped her journey. She shares what it means to lead the legendary House of Colby as a house mother, the responsibility that comes with representing Pasifika and trans communities on a global stage, and how she's navigated life after reaching some of the biggest milestones in drag.Together, they unpack the unexpected identity shifts that can follow success, the realities of fame, advocacy, chosen family, dating, and the question so many people face after accomplishing a lifelong goal: Where do I go from here?Of course, it wouldn't be Island Fever without a little fun. Sasha dishes on dating, shares what it really takes to win her over, reflects on life on the road, and gives a glimpse into the exciting new ventures she's building beyond the stage.Whether you're chasing a dream, redefining success, or figuring out your next chapter after reaching a major milestone, this conversation is a reminder that the finish line is often just the beginning.🌈 Topics include:Growing up in Waimānalo and Native Hawaiian identityThe House of Colby and ballroom legacyWinning RuPaul's Drag Race and Miss ContinentalRepresenting Pasifika and trans communitiesFame, purpose, and life after achieving your biggest goalsAdvocacy and using your platform for changeDating, relationships, and life beyond the spotlightWhat's next for Sasha Colby🔔 Subscribe to Island Fever Podcast for conversations centering Queer & Trans Pacific Islander voices, storytelling, culture, healing, relationships, and community.For more resources: www.pasifikarootedtherapy.com/islandfeverFollow Island Fever Podcast: Instagram: www.instagram.com/islandfeverpodcastThis episode was made possible by the support of:Trans Justice Funding ProjectNQAPIACredits:Hosts:• Vaelupe Ma'aele• Kristian Fanene Manuwai• Donato FatuesiExecutive Producers:• Aisea Laungaue• Kristian Fanene ManuwaiProducer:• Donato FatuesiEditor:• Peter Filimaua🔔 Subscribe to Island Fever Podcast for bold conversations centering Queer and Trans Pacific Islander voices, culture, creativity, relationships, healing, and community—while building bridges through conversations with changemakers from across the globe.

In this episode of Island Fever Podcast, hosts Vaelupe, Krit, and Donato sit down with actress, stylist, and cultural commentator Asia Jackson for an honest conversation about identity, belonging, and the lifelong journey toward self-acceptance.From growing up in a military family in different parts of the world to Long Beach and navigating life as a Blasian woman with Filipino roots, Asia opens up about existing between communities, confronting colorism, and the complicated realities of erasure within Asian, Black, and Pasifika spaces. Together, they unpack what it means to reclaim your identity, build confidence in an industry that often rewards proximity to whiteness, and discover that belonging begins with accepting yourself.Of course, it wouldn’t be Island Fever without a little fun. Asia also shares her favorite styling tips, talks about fashion as a form of self-expression, and reflects on the balance between celebrating identity without allowing it to become your entire personality.Whether you’ve ever questioned where you belong, struggled with cultural expectations, or are learning to embrace every part of yourself, this conversation is an invitation to take up space exactly as you are.🌈 Topics include:Growing up Blasian and FilipinoFinding belonging across multiple communitiesColorism and cultural erasureBuilding confidence and self-acceptanceRepresentation in Hollywood and content creationFashion as self-expressionMixed-race identity and privilegeCreating your own lane in entertainment✨ About Our Guest: Asia Jackson is an actress, model, stylist, and digital creator on a mission to challenge colorism and celebrate beautiful brown skin. A professional IT girl and founder of #MagandangMorenx. As a Filipino and Black creative, she has become a leading voice at the intersection of identity, representation, and style. Through her work across film, television, and social media, Asia has built a community centered on self-confidence, authenticity, and empowering people to embrace every part of who they are.🔔 Subscribe to Island Fever Podcast for conversations centering Queer & Trans Pacific Islander voices, storytelling, culture, healing, relationships, and community.For more resources: www.pasifikarootedtherapy.com/islandfeverFollow Island Fever Podcast: Instagram: www.instagram.com/islandfeverpodcastThis episode was made possible by the support of:IOANE FoundationDon't Drink the Water CafeSoCal PICRTCredits:Hosts:• Vaelupe Ma'aele• Kristian Fanene Manuwai• Donato FatuesiExecutive Producers:• Aisea Laungaue• Kristian Fanene ManuwaiProducer:• Donato FatuesiEditor:• Peter Filimaua🔔 Subscribe to Island Fever Podcast for bold conversations centering Queer and Trans Pacific Islander voices, culture, creativity, relationships, healing, and community—while building bridges through conversations with changemakers from across the globe.

In this episode of Island Fever Podcast, hosts Vaelupe, Krit, and Donato sit down with Jay Taj—rapper, songwriter, and Rhythm & Flow finalist—for a heartfelt conversation about the power of storytelling, cultural identity, and creating art that honors where you come from.From his breakout journey on Rhythm & Flow to celebrating his identity as a proud Chamorro & Black artist from Santa Ana. Jay Taj reflects on how music has become a vehicle for preserving culture, challenging stereotypes, and inspiring the next generation of Pasifika creatives. Together, they explore the courage it takes to share your story, the impact of his AAPI Month series, and why representation matters both on and off the stage.Jay Taj also opens up about navigating creative blocks, overcoming the fear of being vulnerable online, and the unexpected ways his storytelling has deepened his connection with community. Looking ahead, he shares what he's creating next and how he hopes his work continues to amplify Pacific Islander voices around the world.This conversation is honest, inspiring, and filled with wisdom for anyone searching for the confidence to embrace their identity, trust their creative journey, and tell the stories only they can tell.🌈 Topics include:Why storytelling matters for Pacific Islander communitiesLife after Rhythm & FlowEmbracing Chamorro identity through musicThe impact of Jay Taj's AAPI Month storytelling seriesBreaking through creative blocksRepresentation, vulnerability, and building community through art✨ About Our Guest:Jay Taj is a Chamorro & Black rapper, songwriter, and storyteller whose music blends lyricism, culture, and personal truth. Widely recognized for his appearance on Rhythm & Flow, he has become a powerful voice for Pacific Islanders in hip-hop, using his platform to celebrate Chamorro identity and amplify stories that have long been underrepresented in mainstream media. Through his music and digital storytelling, Jay Taj continues to inspire audiences by proving that authenticity, culture, and creativity can coexist at the center of artistic success.This episode was made possible by the support of:IOANE FoundationDon't Drink the Water CafeSoCal PICRTCredits:Hosts:• Vaelupe Ma'aele• Kristian Fanene Manuwai• Donato FatuesiExecutive Producers:• Aisea Laungaue• Kristian Fanene ManuwaiProducer:• Donato FatuesiEditor:• Peter Filimaua🔔 Subscribe to Island Fever Podcast for bold conversations centering Queer and Trans Pacific Islander voices, culture, creativity, relationships, healing, and community—while building bridges through conversations with changemakers from across the globe.

In this episode of Island Fever Podcast, hosts Vaelupe, Krit, and Donato sit down with Kid Fury—comedian, writer, actor, podcast host, and longtime co-host of The Read—for an honest conversation about building a career that lasts in entertainment while staying true to yourself.From growing up as a Jamaican kid in Miami to becoming one of the most recognizable voices in podcasting, Kid Fury reflects on the moments that shaped his perspective, the chemistry behind The Read, and what it really takes to stand out in an industry full of talented people. Together, they explore storytelling, comedy, mental health, creative longevity, dating, representation, and why authenticity remains your greatest advantage.Kid Fury also shares his thoughts on Pacific Islander representation in Hollywood, offers practical advice for aspiring Black and Brown queer creators, and opens up about transforming personal challenges into deeply meaningful art.This conversation is hilarious, insightful, deeply personal, and filled with wisdom for anyone navigating creativity, identity, and the pursuit of a life that feels authentically their own.🌈 Topics include: Building a lasting career in entertainment The success and legacy of The ReadComedy, podcasting, and finding your creative voice, Mental health and turning pain into art, Advice for Black, Brown, and LGBTQ+ creators✨ About Our Guest:Kid Fury is a comedian, writer, actor, and podcast host best known as the longtime co-host of the award-winning podcast The Read. Over more than two decades in entertainment, he has built a career spanning stand-up comedy, television writing—including HBO Max's Rap Sh!t—live touring, and his solo podcast Furious Thoughts. Known for his sharp wit, cultural commentary, and vulnerability, Kid Fury continues to inspire audiences by blending humor with deeply personal storytelling.🌺 This episode was made possible by the support of:• IOANE Foundation• Don't Drink the Water Cafe• SoCal PICRT🎬 CreditsHosts:• Vaelupe Ma'aele• Kristian Fanene Manuwai• Donato FatuesiExecutive Producers:• Aisea Laungaue• Kristian Fanene ManuwaiProducer:• Donato FatuesiEditor:• Peter Filimaua🔔 Subscribe to Island Fever Podcast for bold conversations centering Queer and Trans Pacific Islander voices, culture, creativity, relationships, healing, and community—while building bridges through conversations with changemakers from across the globe.

In this special episode of Island Fever Podcast, host Donato Fatuesi is joined by Dezonikah Michaelz, Agaiotupu Viena, and Tru Koroi for a powerful conversation exploring a question many MVPFAFF+ people are asking right now:What are the safest cities for Pasifika trans people in the United States?Together, they reflect on the places that shaped them, the communities that embraced them, and the realities of navigating life as Pasifika trans people across different cities and regions. From family expectations and cultural responsibilities to dating, career opportunities, and finding chosen family, this conversation dives into what safety truly means beyond laws and policies. The group shares stories of growing up, moving away, building community, and creating lives where they can not only survive—but thrive. Along the way, they unpack the role of visibility, leadership, and collective care in today’s political climate, while celebrating the resilience and brilliance of MVPFAFF+ communities. This conversation is honest, affirming, hilarious, and heartfelt. 🌈 Topics include:What MVPFAFF+ means and why representation mattersThe safest cities for Pasifika trans people in the U.S.Family, culture, and community support. Dating as a Pasifika trans personEconomic opportunity and quality of lifeBuilding chosen family and trans sisterhoodLeadership, visibility, and advocacyThriving in today’s political climateWhat home, safety, and belonging really mean✨ About Our Guests: Dezonikah Michaelz is a former Miss Island Goddess 2025, trans advocate, and fisheries professional whose work bridges community leadership, cultural identity, and environmental stewardship. Agaiotupu Viena is a communications and gender messaging strategist and co-founder of Trans Women of Color Solidarity Network, dedicated to amplifying Pacific Islander voices and advancing social change through storytelling and advocacy.Tru Koroi is a creative, journalist, and storyteller whose work explores culture, identity, community, and the evolving experiences of Pasifika people.💖 Whether you’re looking for community, considering a move, or simply curious about how Pasifika trans people are creating lives filled with joy and possibility, this episode offers insight, wisdom, and a reminder that safety is about more than a place—it’s about people.🎧 Listen now and join the conversation.

In this episode of Island Fever Podcast, hosts Vae, Krit, and Donato sit down with Kumu Hina - Native Hawaiian cultural practitioner, filmmaker, educator, and cultural icon - to explore how we can build stronger Pasifika leadership in our communities. Drawing from decades of advocacy, cultural stewardship, and community work, Kumu Hina shares lessons on leadership, service, and creating pathways for future generations of Pasifika people to thrive. Kumu Hina opens up about the people, values, and cultural teachings that shaped her understanding of leadership, and reflects on how her approach has evolved throughout her life.

In this episode of Island Fever Podcast, hosts Vae, Krit Fanene-Manuwai, and Donato Fatuesi sit down with Maddy Sesepasara of the Hawai'i Health & Harm Reduction Center (HHHRC) to explore one of the most difficult questions many families face: How do I help someone struggling with addiction?Whether you're navigating substance use yourself or supporting a loved one on their journey, this conversation offers compassionate insight into addiction, recovery, harm reduction, and healing.Maddy shares her path into community health work and how supporting MVPFAFF+ Pacific Islanders through addiction recovery, HIV prevention, sexual health, and harm reduction services has shaped her understanding of community care and healing. Together, the hosts reflect on their own experiences with substance use, the circumstances that led them there, and the realities of finding a way forward.From harm reduction and sobriety to sexual health, HIV prevention, stigma, and community care, this conversation explores the many layers of recovery and what it truly means to support someone without judgment. The hosts openly discuss their recovery journeys, the consequences that pushed them toward change, and the tools that help them stay on the path today.This conversation is vulnerable, honest, emotional, affirming, and deeply practical for anyone navigating addiction, recovery, mental health, or supporting someone they love. It also offers an important look at how MVPFAFF+ communities experience addiction, healing, and access to care, while highlighting resources available to those seeking support.🌈 Topics Include:• Addiction and substance use recovery• Supporting a loved one struggling with addiction• Harm reduction vs. sobriety• HIV prevention, PrEP, and sexual health resources• MVPFAFF+ health, healing, and community care• Mental health and trauma in Pasifika communities• Recovery journeys and staying on the path• Accessing support services and resources✨ About Our GuestMaddy Sesepasara is a community health advocate with the Hawai'i Health & Harm Reduction Center (HHHRC), an organization dedicated to reducing health disparities and increasing access to care throughout Hawai'i. Through outreach, education, and direct services, Maddy supports individuals navigating substance use, HIV prevention, sexual health, and recovery.A significant part of Maddy's work includes serving MVPFAFF+ communities across Hawai'i, providing culturally responsive care and resources for Queer, Trans, and gender-diverse Pacific Islanders. Through this work, Maddy has witnessed firsthand the unique challenges, barriers, and strengths that shape addiction, recovery, and healing within our communities.🔔 Subscribe to Island Fever Podcast for conversations centering Queer & Trans Pacific Islander voices, storytelling, culture, healing, relationships, and community.For more resources:www.pasifikarootedtherapy.com/islandfeverFollow Island Fever Podcast:Instagram: www.instagram.com/islandfeverpodcastWatch, share, and join the conversation. 💜

In this episode of Island Fever Podcast, hosts Vae, Krit & Donato sit down with Shar Tui'asoa, the creative force behind Punky Aloha, to explore how much of our personal lives is relevant and appropriate to share on social media.Shar opens up about navigating visibility, vulnerability, and the responsibility that can come with building a platform online. Together, they unpack conversations around identity, queer Pacific Islander experiences, healing, mental health, culture, storytelling, and art as activism. From celebrating Pasifika women in their fullness to reclaiming narrative power online, this conversation dives into what it means to show up authentically in digital spaces without losing yourself in the process.Whether we are the disruptors, educators, advocates, or storytellers online, we are driving Pasifika excellence simply by showing up fully as ourselves. We don’t need outside validation — we need courage, community, and the willingness to be seen.This conversation is vulnerable, hilarious, emotional, affirming, and deeply unfiltered — offering insight for anyone navigating visibility, identity, boundaries, creativity, and community in the age of social media.🌈 Topics include:• Oversharing vs authenticity online• Queer Pacific Islander visibility• Pasifika representation in media & art• Art as activism and storytelling• Navigating boundaries in public life✨ About Our Guest:Shar Tui'asoa is the founder and creative visionary behind Punky Aloha, a Hawai‘i-based lifestyle and illustration brand known for celebrating Pacific Islander women, Pasifika culture, and radical self-love through bold art and storytelling. Through every medium, her work centers Pasifika joy, social activism, and authentic Pacific Islander representation. Her artwork has been featured in collaborations with major brands including Apple, Disney, Pixar, Sephora, and The New York Times, and she is currently working on her first two picture books as both author and illustrator with Harper Kids, an imprint of HarperCollins.🔔 Subscribe to Island Fever Podcast for conversations centering Queer & Trans Pacific Islander voices, storytelling, culture, healing, relationships, and community.For more resources:www.pasifikarootedtherapy.com/islandfeverFollow Island Fever Podcast:Instagram: www.instagram.com/islandfeverpodcastWatch, share, and join the conversation. 💜

In this episode of Island Fever Podcast, Vae, Krit, and Donato sit down with Haylin Dennison to unpack what it actually means to protect Trans Kids -beyond politics, fear, and misinformation.Haylin opens up about her journey as the proud mama of a Trans Kid, sharing honestly about the moments she got it wrong, the growth that transformed her understanding, and the fierce love that now drives her advocacy through Spill The Tea Cafe. Together, they explore what gender-affirming care really is, what it isn’t, and why affirming environments save lives.This conversation is vulnerable, hilarious, emotional, affirming, and deeply unfiltered — offering insight for parents, families, educators, allies, and anyone navigating conversations around gender identity and support.Trans kids remain among the highest-risk groups for suicide, and in Hawai‘i, nearly 50% of trans youth have attempted suicide. Haylin speaks candidly about learning to move from fear to understanding, and why creating affirming spaces for trans youth matters now more than ever.🌈 Topics Include:• Parenting and supporting Trans Kids• Gender-affirming care explained• Debunking myths about trans youth• Mental health and suicide prevention• Creating affirming family and community spaces• Raising LGBTQ+ youth in Hawai‘i• Healing, accountability, and growth as a parent• Building safer futures for QTPI youth✨ About Our Guest:Haylin Dennison is a mental health professional and proud owner of Spill the Tea Cafe in Honolulu, Hawai‘i — a community-centered space rooted in healing, affirmation, and connection.🔔 Subscribe to Island Fever Podcast for conversations centering Queer & Trans Pacific Islander voices, storytelling, culture, healing, relationships, and community.For more resources:https://www.spilltheteacafe.org/www.pasifikarootedtherapy.com/islandfeverhttps://transfamilysos.org/https://transresourcehub.wixsite.com/my-site/parent-resourceshttps://pflag.org/https://www.genderspecialist.com/Follow Island Fever Podcast:Instagram: www.instagram.com/islandfeverpodcastWatch, share, and join the conversation. 💜

In this episode of Island Fever Podcast, Vae, Krit, and Donato sit down with Randy Soriano - a powerhouse community organizer behind Pride 365 and the Hawai‘i Rainbow Film Festival, whose work continues to champion MVPFAFF+ visibility and advocacy across Hawai‘i. Randy opens up about growing up in a deeply religious and conservative family, and the complicated journey of reconciling faith, identity, and belonging. Together, they unpack what it means to live boldly and authentically while navigating cultural expectations, spirituality, and community accountability. This conversation is honest, vulnerable, and deeply affirming for anyone who has ever questioned whether there was space for both their faith and their queerness to coexist. 🌈 Topics include: • Growing up queer in religious spaces • Faith, shame, and healing • Activism and community leadership • Building visibility for MVPFAFF+ communities in Hawai‘i • Choosing authenticity despite fear For more resources: Pasifika Rooted Therapy – Island Fever ResourcesThis episode was made possible by the support of: • Kaimana Beach Hotel • IOANE Foundation • Don't Drink the Water (DDW) Cafe • Ha'aheo Zablan • Rated R Hawai'i • SoCal PICRT • Prism Foundation • Popua Pyland & Tua Pyland Credits: Hosts: Vaelupe Ma'aele, Kristian Fanene Manuwai, Donato Fatuesi Production Crew: • Peter Filimaua • Michael Tui'asoa • Mele Tui'asoa • Ryan Tui'asoa Executive Producers: Aisea Laungaue & Kristian Fanene Manuwai Producer: Donato Fatuesi Island Fever Podcast is fiscally sponsored by UTOPIA Washington. Watch, share, and join the conversation. 💜

It's AAPI Heritage Month and we're on location in Hawai'i talking all things solidarity with our fave Filipino superstar Bretman Rock!

Get your tissues out cuz our season finale is a tear jerker! We get into the real meaning of community with our fave Tree Ioane from the IOANE Foundation. Thank you all for riding with us and we'll see you again soon! ❤️

She models, she acts, she designs clothes, she be beating up bitches on the Taekwondo mat and she's single AF! Our fave trailblazer Isis King stops in for some girl talk.

Our fave Jason Du Puy AKA Salina EsTitties helps us break down our relationships with food, exercise, and our bodies.

This week we unpack our understandings of Masculinity and Femininity with our fave Ryan Mitchell AKA The Slay Gawd!

On this episode, we review “Inky Pinky Ponky” with the help of special guest JP Foliaki!

This is the Heartbreak Hotel. Our fave Chamorro pole dancer Mariah joins us for a tender talanoa on love and heartbreak.

This week Krit gets kinky, Donato gets down and dirty, and Vae learns what a sling is! We talk all things sex - how we first learnt about it and how we currently navigate it.Trigger Warning: This episode includes conversations around sex, trauma, and childhood experiences that may be sensitive or activating—especially for those who carry generational, cultural, or personal wounds around these topics. Viewer discretion is lovingly advised.

On this episode we review the short documentary Tamāloa- speaking on men’s mental health and the journey of professional rugby player, Rodney Ah You.

What does it mean to be grown and Pasifika? Krit, Donato and Vae speak about their individual journeys with cultural identity, how it’s impacted their personal and professional lives, and the shifts they’d like to see.

Your faves give their review of 2025’s live-action “Lilo & Stitch” - from casting to the colorism. Check it out.

Welcome back, hoes! This season we're celebrating an all QTPI (Queer and Trans Pacific Islander) line up, with the return of cultural consultant Krit, our favourite Pasifika therapist Vaelupe Ma'aele, and newcomer actress and influencer Donato Fatuesi.Given the current political climate we’re in, it’s more important than ever to maintain and increase our visibility but, more than that, it’s critical that we offer love and support to our community members who are struggling the most.Island Fever is a platform we can use to reach thousands of QTPI folk and spread uplifting messaging, letting listeners know they are seen and valued.

On our season finale episode, we talk about 40 Days + 40 Nights (2002) and if we should or have taken a vow of celibacy!

On today's episode, Krit talks to Brooke Obie, an award-winning film + television critic, journalist, editor, author, and screenwriter, about Ryan Coogler's new film Sinners!

On today's episode, we discuss Love and Basketball (2000), our hopes and dreams, and most importantly, whether we are available for a relationship.

We heard you wanted to get to know us a little better! On today's episode, we discuss the film Definitely, Maybe, and our parents' love stories. Look, we can be wholesome! ;)

Today's Fresh Take: The White Lotus! We have a special guest today, writer, actress and producer Kimberly-Rose Ka'iulani Wolter!! Where we discuss all things The White Lotus Season One!

Introducing our very first guest, your favorite queer Samoan therapist @pasifikarootedtherapy where we talk about stalking, obsession and what is good game! Check out Vae on IG @pasifikarootedtherapy and on her website https://www.pasifikarootedtherapy.com/

We heard you wanted to hear from us more! Introducing 'Fresh Takes' our biweekly segment filled with our hot takes on film, tv, entertainment, and anything and everything that’s buzzing right now. First up, our fresh take on Moana 2!

He’s Just Not That Into You…. And now we’re triggered. On today’s episode, we get into a heated debate about communication styles, using your partner’s toothbrush, and the patriarchy! 

This week, our hosts Krit, Michael & Tia sit down to discuss their favorite Sex and The City characters, cheating, shame, and possibly body counts? Tune in to find out! 

Meet your new Valentine's! And your new favorite podcast!Island Fever, is a new entertainment podcast about three Pasifika singles navigating sex, dating, and relationships. The series serves as an outlet to deep dive into conversations and issues considered taboo throughout the Pacific.On today's episode, we get to know our new favorite singles a little more...intimately. From their favorite rom-coms to their dating profiles and a few dating hot takes, nothing is off the table for these three sexy singles.Join hosts Kristian Fanene Schmidt, Michael Tuatagaloa Alisa, and Tia Kaiulani Kanaeholo as they embark on their journeys in search of love!!