Episodes
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Overflowing Toilets and Tough Love_Episode 58
Jon and Steph are back talking through everything from motorbikes in Fiji to the reality of raising kids in today's world. They get into the difference between growing up in Canada vs Fiji, what they're seeing with youth smoking, and why some of it feels like it's getting worse, not better. The...
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Finding My Identity: The Complexities of Being a Mixed Pacific Islander_Episode 57
Two Fijian-Canadian guys (Jon and Thomas Mills)talk about navigating cultural identity, family ties, and heritage. They reflect on growing up with Fijian roots outside Fiji, the challenges of maintaining connections, and the joys of embracing both cultures. The conversation covers raising…
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Socks, Spiders, and Spearfishing: The Hilarious Chaos of Family Life_Episode 56
Jon and Steph shares candid updates on family life, home renovations, and farming in Fiji. They discuss moving into a temporary house while their new home is built, reflect on the challenges and cultural norms of living with extended family, and share excitement about future plans for their...
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Navigating the Construction Landscape: A Young Entrepreneur's Guide to Success and Resilience in Fiji_Episode 55
Today's guest is Fayzaan Hussein, a young entrepreneur and founder of Hive Construction, who is building our farmhouse in Fiji. He shares his journey from a challenging upbringing to launching his own business. We chat about the construction industry's challenges, innovative business practices…
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The Hilarious Truth About Dating, Ethnic Stereotypes, and Awkward Moments_Episode 54
Jon and Steph engage in lively, informal conversation, blending humor, storytelling, and candid reflections. They share jokes, discuss cultural observations, and recount personal anecdotes about travel, hosting guests, and navigating generational slang. They explore topics like reality TV,...
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The Greatest Impact of Simple Acts of Service in Our Lives_Episode 53
Jon and Steph reflect on their differing upbringings, parenting philosophies, and how these shape their relationship and family life in Fiji. They discuss discipline, trust, and the impact of moving abroad, while sharing lighthearted memories of past adventures and current hobbies like...
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How Personal Values Shape Leadership at Castaway Island Resort Fiji with Steven Andrews_Episode 51
I had the pleasure of sitting down and chatting with Steven Andrews, General Manager of Castaway Island Resort, who discusses his upbringing, career journey, and leadership philosophy rooted in faith, family values, and community. Stephen touched on sustainable tourism, conservation efforts like...
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I Don't Want Your Love. I want Your Loyalty_Episode 50
Steph and Jon sit down to talk about what life's really like for their family in Fiji: from dealing with bugs and cooking meals to figuring out family roles. They open up about starting fresh in their 30s, and how mindset plays a big part in getting through tough seasons. They talk parenting,...
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The Ups and Downs of Living in Fiji: Family Adventures and Entrepreneurial Insights_Episode 49
The family reflects on their recent two-and-a-half-month trip to Canada, sharing highlights and challenges. Steph, engages with Eliki and Seva about their experiences, including homeschooling and family activities. Jon joins later, discussing their day in town, diet, and life reflections. The...
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Fiji's Rugby King — Waisale Serevi Like You've Never Heard Before_Episode 48
I sat down with Waisale Serevi to hear his story, and I was not expecting to hear stories I never knew about his life. Some stories fun—some emotional. But the craziest part? He really didn't hold back. So join me, Jonathan, as we pull back the layers with one of the best rugby players of all…
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Protecting Hawksbill Turtles: The Collaborative Efforts of WWF Pacific and Local Communities in Fiji_Episode 47
In this episode we have a chat with WWF Pacific. Jonathan and Kara from WWF Pacific discuss turtle conservation on Kavewa Island, specifically focused on the critically endangered Hawksbill Turtle. Jonathan shares his Fijian heritage and his family's move to Fiji in 2020, focusing on creating...
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Perseverance in the Face of Uncertainty: A Christian Perspective on Waiting_Episode 46
Jon and Dave engage in a reflective conversation on themes of perseverance, waiting, and personal growth within a Christian context. They discuss the difference between joy and happiness, aging and the passage of time, highlighting the importance of active waiting and finding purpose in life's...
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From Tears to Laughter: Navigating the Rollercoaster of Friendship_Episode 44
In this podcast episode, Jon and Steph engage in a heartfelt and humorous conversation about the significance of old friendships and personal experiences. They reflect on the depth of relationships formed during their youth, contrasting them with newer, more superficial connections. The…
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Beyond Sunday: Cultivating Relationships That Last in Faith Communities_Episode 43
In this episode of "On the Mat," Jon and guest Dave engage in a conversation about life in Fiji, farming, and their pasts. Dave, a pastor, farmer, and woodworker, shares his experiences with woodworking projects, the establishment of their farm, "Pneuma Hill Farms", and their positive experiences...
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Risking It All: Selling Our House To Start A Dance Company and a Circus_Episode 41
We got to hang out with the founders of the Vou Dance Company, Eddie and Sachiko Soro. Eddie shares how a knee injury led him from rugby to dance, eventually forming the Vou Dance Company alongside his wife, Sachiko, who was also his dance teacher. They discuss the group's evolution, blending...
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How Do Long-Distance Relationships Survive Chaos and Controversy?_Episode 40
In this engaging podcast episode, Jon and Stephanie discuss their experiences during a recent two-month separation, touching on personal topics such as health issues, family dynamics, and public speaking challenges. Stephanie shares her struggles with jet lag and a boil on her eye after returning...
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Coping With Loss: How Faith & Relationships Bring Healing w/ David Allen_Episode 39
In this podcast episode, John and Dave engage in a casual yet profound conversation about their lives in Fiji, touching on personal experiences, community, and faith. They reminisce about their unique encounters, including how they met and the cultural nuances of living in Fiji. Dave shares his...
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The Journey of an Island Man_Episode 38
In this episode, Koroi is our Farm Manager, who is from Moturiki Island in Fiji. Koroi shares his upbringing in Fiji, discussing family responsibilities, education, and his diverse experiences, including forestry and traditional sailing Koroi joined Jonathan also talked about the announcement of...
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Can Men and Women Balance Financial Responsibility In A Relationship?_Episode 37
In this podcast episode, Jon and Steph, discuss their experiences with childbirth, administrative tasks in Fiji, and the traditional roles of men and women in providing for the family. A question is asked about why men should always be the financial providers in a relationship. The couple also...
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Exploring the Challenges of Parenting, Health, and Open Communication within Families_Episode 36
Join Jon and Steph in this episode of our podcast as we dive into a fun chat filled with laughter and real-life moments with our kiddos. From hilarious holiday mishaps (ever dealt with a bathroom flood?) to navigating the wild world of parenting, social media, and our favorite outdoor adventures...
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How Can We Navigate Sensitive Conversations with Our Children?_Episode 35
In this podcast episode, Jonathan and Stephanie delve into a candid discussion about their personal experiences and parenting approaches. They reflect on their childhood freedoms, the influence of their upbringings, and the challenges of maintaining friendships. The couple also addresses the…
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Covering Holes With Jesus Pictures and Uncovering Family Secrets_Episode 34
Jonathan and Stephanie, reflect on their recent trip to Suva, Fiji, meeting interesting people like Bruce from Zoom Fiji. They discuss the cultural differences in taxi conditions and reminisce about their first date and early relationship memories. The couple also shares their love for books like...
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On the Mat: From Vasectomies to Merchandise, Nothing is Off Limits_Episode 33
In this podcast episode, Jonathan and Stephanie engage in a heartfelt and humorous discussion about their personal lives, including parenting fears, health concerns for their children, and the emotional impact of family. They candidly share their experiences with pregnancy, a vasectomy decision,...
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Unfiltered: Heritage, Apple Crisp, and Cleaning Mishaps_Episode 32
In this podcast episode, Jon and Steph engage in a light-hearted and informal chat, covering a range of topics from personal anecdotes to pop culture. They discuss the behind-the-scenes of their podcast, including potential sponsors and their children's antics. The conversation also veers into...
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Laughing Off Negative Comments: Our Approach to Criticism_Episode 31
Stephanie and Jon share their recent travel experiences, including Steph and her friend from Canada (Roz) stay at various hotels in Fiji and their participation in a Women's Convention as speakers. They discuss the influence of mentors on their entrepreneurial journey and their approach to…
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The Most Hilarious and Heartfelt Conversations About Marriage and Sex_Episode 30
In this podcast episode, John and Steph engage in a candid discussion about their personal experiences with sex and marriage. Steph opens up about the pressures of occasion sex and the difficulties couples may face in satisfying each other's desires. They explore the societal expectations and...
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Is It Common for Families to Face Challenges When a Spouse Works Overseas?_Episode 29
In this podcast episode, Jon and Steph discuss a range of personal and community issues. They talk about an ex-employee's family challenges due to relocation, the cultural implications of baby naming, and the quirks of neighborhood relations involving a barking dog. This is a personal and funny…
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Fiji Unplugged: Embracing Simplicity and Authenticity_Episode 28
Steph and Jon discuss the challenges of setting up a business and the importance of community support. They emphasize mental health awareness and the need for open communication. The episode also covers their plans for a media company and agricultural exports, specifically black turmeric. They...
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Earthquakes, Extreme Feminism, etc....The Normal Stuff_Episode 27
Jon and Steph discuss their experiences with natural disasters, the resilience of businesses in Fiji, and gun ownership in America. They also touch on societal issues such as extreme feminism and high suicide rates. The conversation then shifts to the future of global leadership, with a focus on...
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Jon and Stephanie's Childhood Tales_Episode 26
In this podcast episode, John and Stephanie discuss their different approaches to work and household chores. Stephanie shares her challenges with dyslexia and balancing work, motherhood, and household responsibilities. They also reminisce about their childhood experiences and discuss their...
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Balancing Ambition and Anxiety_Episode 25
Jon & Steph discuss their experience with Leadership Fiji and their role in helping and their year over year growth of the event. The conversation also touches on their communication style during public speaking events and childhood games. They then shift to discussing their podcast and the...
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From Bleach Showers to Business: Our Unconventional Journey_Episode 24
In this podcast episode, Steph and Jon discuss their friend's unusual habit of taking bleach showers, their own business ventures and recent successes, their experiences with rugby and rugby culture, and their personal lives. They touch on cultural norms in Fiji, the challenges of living there…
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Breaking the Taboo: Sex Education, Body Shaming, and Empowering Women_Episode 23
In this podcast episode, Jon & Steph discuss various topics including the possibility of having more children, the perception of age and middle age, experiences with pregnancy, and a discussion about sex education and body shaming in church. They reflect on their decision to have two children and...
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Bananas, Bulk Shopping, and Ballsy Personalities: A Lighthearted Chat with Two Friends__Episode 22
Have you ever thought about the most effective way to discipline your children? In this podcast, Jon and Steph share their experiences with physical discipline and the importance of following through with consequences. They discuss the cultural conversation around physical discipline and its...
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Living Above Reproach: How Honesty and Integrity Can Change the World_Episode 21
In this podcast episode Jon and Steph reflect on the importance of living above reproach, finding meaning in life, coping with loss, and their faith. The episode includes a Q&A segment and a game called "We're Not Really Strangers." Thanks for joining!!
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Why is it important to translate and explain Fijian culture for non-Fijians?__Episode 20
In this episode of the Waka Family Podcast, Jon and Steph discuss the importance of explaining and respecting Fijian culture. They also talk about their podcast set and recording location, as well as the importance of communication and good leadership in business. The conversation shifts to a...
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When was the Last Time You Cried?__Episode 19
Jon and Steph discuss their experiences with crying, the challenges of running a business in a small town, the importance of mutual respect and balance in a marriage, and the significance of their Christian faith in their business ventures. They also share stories and memories from their…
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The Benefits and Challenges of Living in a Small Island Nation_Episode 18
In this podcast episode, Stephanie and Jonathan chat about the limited options for quality women's undergarments in Fiji, the difficulties of finding trustworthy assistance, the education system, and the challenges of running a business in Fiji. They also share personal anecdotes about…
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From Fish Poisoning to Forgiveness: A Conversation on Sickness and Sin_Episode 17
In this podcast episode, Jon and Steph, the hosts, discuss a range of topics, including the Muslim holiday of Eid, the importance of inclusivity and affordability in their coffee shop, personal experiences with health and healthcare, and the best gifts they have given and received. They also…
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Why Does He Know So Much About Donkeys__Episode 16
In this podcast episode, Jon and Steph engage in a casual conversation covering a range of topics. They share their experiences and opinions on jokes, coffee, language, AI, and old school maps. The duo also touches on important topics such as education, communication, customer service, and…
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Jonathan Gets Reported To The Police__Episode 15
Jon and Steph talk about the pizza restaraunt, how to resove confilict EVERY TIME, opportunities in the South Pacific, the differences between a job and a business, and more. This episode was brought to you by Fresh Tea+Coffee in Seaqaqa, Vanua Levu, Fiji.
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Addressing Our Most Controversial Post To Date__Episode 14
Jon and Steph talk about all the recent feedback on social media, tell their origin story, and how you don't need capital to start a business. This episode was brought to you by Fresh Tea+Coffee in Seaqaqa, Vanua Levu, Fiji.
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How To Handle The Feeling of "Not Belonging"__Episode 13
Jon and Steph discuss weight-loss, dieting, Jon's new twitter account, the Waka Family's new Tiktok, Jonathan's road rage issues, race, religion, and more. Thanks for joining! This episode was brought to you by Fresh Tea+Coffee in Seaqaqa, Vanua Levu, Fiji.
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Self Confidence Issues and Relationships__Episode 12
Join Jonathan and Stephanie as they chat about creating conent, business, relationships, and more! This Episode was brought to you by Fresh Tea+Coffee in Seaqaqa, Vanua Levu, Fiji.
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The Filthy Animal's Birthday__Episode 11
Jon and Steph talk about pooing in the ocean, losing your hearing, and more business progress made over the past week. Thanks for joining the conversation. This week's episode was brought to you by The Wet Mammal.
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Welcoming Our New Content Manager_Episode 10
In the darkness because of a dead solar system Jon and Steph talk about the rules they would have for each other if they lived on a sailboat, introduce their new full time content manager, and the need to start open conversations about sexual abuse in our communities. This episode was brought to...
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The Friends Who Have Nothing To Give__Episode 9
Meet their pet iguana, Fred. Steph and Jon also chat about the new processing, planting, and exporting venture they are looking into starting in Fiji, the new podcast/production studio/office they take possession of this week, and more. This episode was brought to you by Fresh Tea+Coffee in...
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Delusional Optimism__Episode 8
"Stephanie, do you believe that you are delusionsally optimistic about your life?"...that's how Episode 8 starts. THIS MIGHT BE THE MOST RAW CONVERSATION SO FAR. That question kind of sets the tone for the rest of the episode. They litteraly read incoming business text messages--LIVE--as they…
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The Most Random Way to Make A Living__Episode 7
In this episode Jonathan and Stephanie talk about buying and selling turmeric in Fiji, the best spearfishing in the world, and our first kiss. Thanks for listening!!
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You're NOT REALLY Fijian__Episode 6
Jon and Steph are back recording this one straight from the village. They talk about personal development goals for the year, the new turmeric project, people saying "You're not really Fijian.", how the "good old days" weren't actually that good, and more. This episode was brought to you by Fresh...
About this show
We moved our family to Fiji from Canada in 2020 to pursue our dream of creating the most innovative company in the South Pacific by 2030. This is our story.
Hosted by
Jonathan and Stephanie Batisarisari
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