Inspired by Aloha

In true Inspired By Aloha (IBA) fashion, the crew gathers to reflect on a year filled with manaʻo, music, and meaningful connections. Joined by special guest, Camden the IBA Tech Guru, they look back with gratitude on the incredible guests who joined them in 2025 such as Keala Thompson, The Hawaiian Music Perpetuation Society, Prime Hina, and Haunani Miyasato, each bringing their own ʻike, moʻolelo, and aloha to the table.Things get even more fun when the crew opens a special makana from Kaulana Mahina, leading to plenty of surprises and heartfelt moments. This episode is full of giggles, storytelling, pidgin ponderings, childhood concert memories, and Pocho power! It's a perfect reminder of why gathering to talk story with friends is the best way to brighten your day!As the IBA ʻohana enters a new year in 2026, the saying "Hiki Nō" or "Can!" rings true for the group. From our IBA family to yours...may 2026 be your year of doing, experiencing, and living a life of aloha to the fullest! Hiki nō!Connect with your Inspired by Aloha (IBA) crew! We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @inspiredbyaloha808Email: [email protected]

"...it wasn't till I actually started taking Hawaiian language classes that I learned a lot. And you know with language comes culture right. They're intertwined. You can't separate one from the other. So that's when I really learned my culture too." ~ Haunani Miyasato, Educator and Founder of Kaulana MahinaThe Inspired by Aloha crew welcomes Hawaiʻi island educator, entrepreneur, and ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi advocate Haunani Miyasato, the visionary behind Kaulana Mahina, a cultural learning platform rooted in ʻike kūpuna, lived practices, and a deep commitment to giving our keiki the tools to kilo (observe) and connect with the ʻāina.What begins as a talk story about learning ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi to support her immersion-school children unfolds into a moving journey of persistence, identity, and purpose. Haunani shares how a rigorous college course on the mahina (moon) cracked her world open, revealing how lunar cycles shape fishing, planting, harvesting, and even our own energy. Using what she learned, she transformed her knowledge into a Hawaiian moon calendar, created entirely in ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi to preserve the cultural meaning and mana embedded in the language.The crew explore how aloha is perpetuated through intentional, high-quality work, such as research grounded in Hawaiian scholarship to collaboration with cultural practitioners and correcting inaccuracies in resources such as ahupuaʻa maps. Haunani also shares the practice of kilo, explaining how careful observation can support sustainability, mindfulness, and deeper connection to place. This episode is for anyone who has ever felt called back to language, culture, or ʻike and wondered if it’s “too late” to begin. Haunani reminds us that you don’t have to be an expert to start. You just have to take the time to learn and find a way to pass it on.Mahalo nui to Haunani Miyasato for bringing the moon, the maps, the moʻolelo, and the mana to Inspired by Aloha. Your efforts keep Hawaiian culture alive for the lāhui and our future generations!Follow Kaulana Mahina: @kaulana.mahina on Instagram and visit kaulanamahina.com.Connect with your Inspired by Aloha (IBA) crew! We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @inspiredbyaloha808Email: [email protected]

The Inspired by Aloha crew gather to reflect on their heartfelt conversations with three remarkable cultural practitioners: Aunty Kuʻuipo Kumukahi, Jeninne Heleloa, and muralist John “Prime” Hina. What starts as a casual catch-up evolves into a rich exploration of art as kuleana, connection to culture, and the transformative power of being given the space to grow.Fresh from time spent with the Hawaiian Music Perpetuation Society at their headquarters in Maunalua and a morning immersed in John Prime’s artistic world, the hosts unpack the magic of meeting people who live their craft with intention. They celebrate the aunties’ dedication to authentic mele, Prime’s journey from tagger to cultural community educator, and the many ways each uses their gifts to uplift the lāhui and inspire the next generation.From moonlit mural sessions to memories of learning mele as keiki, this episode honors those who “plant seeds for trees whose shade they’ll never enjoy,” choosing to perpetuate Hawaiian culture with love, integrity, and aloha.Whether you’re an artist, teacher, cultural practitioner, or someone still discovering your gift, this Talk Story gently reminds us that there is always time, always space, and always purpose in the journey of becoming.Mahalo nui to Auntie Kuʻuipo, Jeninne, and Prime for inspiring us all to find and share our gifts with the world.Connect with your Inspired by Aloha (IBA) crew! We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @inspiredbyaloha808Email: [email protected]

“We’re not just painting walls. We’re locking in the DNA, the mana, and the stories of the community.”  ~ John "Prime" HinaGet ready for "Prime Time!" In this powerful, laughter-filled, chicken-skin conversation, Amy, Erin, and Shareen sit with renowned graffiti artist, philosopher, farmer, and storyteller John “Prime” Hina, founder of 808 Urban and Dear Love Story.From tagging his first bedroom wall in the 1980s to building one of Hawaiʻi’s most influential community art movements, Prime shares the unexpected path that transformed an outlaw art form into a vessel for culture, healing, and connection. He takes us deep into 808 Urban’s signature mural process (manalima, pilialoha, moʻokāpala, and moʻolelo) and explains how every handprint, every drop of water, and every story woven into a wall carries the DNA of its people.Prime reflects on fatherhood, the moment his keiki “discovered” tagging, and the decision that reignited his artistic purpose. He opens his heart about legacy, lōkahi, microbes, Hawaiian knowledge, Korean Natural Farming, and his newest body of work with Dear Love Story, including his innovative, culturally grounded “lei” art series, community-driven coloring books, and a commitment to documenting stories for future generations.“People see a pretty mural. The community sees generations of moʻolelo in color.” This episode reminds us that art is more than a picture, it’s a living process, a sacred space, and a bridge between ancestors and keiki. And as always, Prime brings the humor, the truth, and the deep wisdom only a master storyteller can deliver.Witness Prime's incredible impact in our world at https://www.808urban.org/ and https://dearlovestory.comConnect with your Inspired by Aloha (IBA) crew! We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @inspiredbyaloha808Email: [email protected]

🎶 Recorded live from the Hawaiian Music Perpetuation Society in Maunalua, Oʻahu.“My mother was putting the Hawaiian words into my mouth through mele, because my father wouldn’t speak Hawaiian to me…but at least I would have the words in my mouth through mele.”       ~ Aunty Kuʻuipo KumukahiIn this very special Inspired by Aloha episode, the crew takes their first road trip to Maunalua (aka Hawaiʻi Kai) to sit down with two remarkable women: Aunty Kuʻuipo Kumukahi and Jeninne Heleloa, co-founders of the Hawaiian Music Perpetuation Society (HMPS). Together, they share powerful stories of ʻohana, mele, and resilience. From kolohe childhood memories and musical roots to the founding of HMPS during COVID, their mission continues to be the preservation and perpetuation of Hawaiian culture through song. Filled with laughter, emotion, and deep cultural insights, this episode reminds us that Aloha is more than a word. It is a soothing melody that washes over the soul and deeply connects us in ways we never thought possible. It is a way of life, passed down, protected, and meant to be shared with future generations.This episode is all heart, humor, and the living Aloha. Whether you're kanaka ʻōiwi, kamaʻāina, or just beginning your journey to understand Hawaiʻi, this conversation will both uplift and ground you. As a special bonus, Aunty Kuʻuipo graces us with her beautiful, mesmerizing leo, a voice that invites you to close your eyes, listen deeply, and feel your heart overflow with gratitude.  We hope you enjoy this gift of mele from the Hawaiian Music Perpetuation Society!🎶👉🏽Check them out today at https://www.hmpshawaii.com/Connect with your Inspired by Aloha (IBA) crew! We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @inspiredbyaloha808Email: [email protected]

"Your story will help lots of people too. YOUR Story will help people realize that they're not alone, that they have someone. There's so many people that hold safe spaces for you to come and talk to them and have help." ~ Shareen PoynterGet ready for an episode packed with inspirational stories and plenty of "aha!" moments where Amy, Erin, and Shareen reflect on their conversations with two incredible guests who are turning passion into purpose in wildly different, but equally amazing, ways! First, they reflect on the good work of visionary founders of Kilohana Farms and Big Island Meadery, Vanessa Houle and Devin Magallanes (Season 1, EP 13), who are not only crafting delicious honey products and mead, but also using their platform to educate communities about the vital role bees play in our agricultural ecosystems, and what we risk if we don’t protect them.Then, the conversation continues around the impactful contributions of Keala Thompson (Season 2, EP 1), creator of an international business dedicated to guiding individuals toward personal growth, mental well-being, and discovering their deeper purpose in life. His dedication to his own self-healing in order to help others do the same is truly a model of behavior to be celebrated.From sustainable farming to mental health empowerment, this episode is a heartfelt exploration about personal stories of passion and grace from everyday people who do extraordinary acts of aloha! May you find the moments to celebrate and the courage to share YOUR STORY, because within you lies the power to inspire, uplift, and help others thrive!Connect with your Inspired by Aloha (IBA) crew! We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @inspiredbyaloha808Email: [email protected]

Welcome to Season 2 of Inspired by Aloha, a podcast dedicated to spotlighting extraordinary individuals who use their special gifts to bring more aloha into our world. In this episode, we are honored to feature Keala Thompson, a local boy turned international speaker and relationship specialist, who is on a mission to guide people towards their own healing while living their most empowered lives.Keala's journey is nothing short of inspiring. Growing up in Hilo, Hawaiʻi, he learned the value of community, connection, and faith. He credits his family for teaching him the grounding value and meaning of Aloha. "I learned a lot from my dad. The Aloha he showed was more like an unconditional type of love. It was unconditional in the sense that you don't have to do anything to earn my love. I love you as you are, without having to earn my love or earn my respect. I love you because of the love, the aloha I already have inside of my heart, that I want to give to you. Not all love has the power to heal. I think conditional type of love doesn't have the power to heal...the unselfish, unconditional type of love has the power to heal. That's what I've seen."  ~ Keala ThompsonThrough hard work and dedication, Keala has become a positive role model for men, women, and families around the globe. His passion for building stronger relationships, healing brokenness, and empowering others has made him a sought-after speaker and advisor. Join us as we dive deep into Keala’s story, uncover the wisdom he’s gained along the way, and explore the powerful ways we can all heal, grow, and build lasting connections. Learn more about Keala Thompson at KT Advising!Get ready to be inspired!Connect with your Inspired by Aloha (IBA) crew! We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @inspiredbyaloha808Email: [email protected]

Hauʻoli Makahiki Hou! Happy New Year!As we welcome in 2025, the Inspired by Aloha family is happily getting ready to launch Season 2. If you were with us last season, mahalo nui for your continued support! If you are new to our podcast, welcome to our ʻohana! We hope to bring a smile to your face and some pep in your step as we send you a big hug over the airwaves. May 2025 be the best year yet for us all!Me ke aloha pumehana,Amy, Erin, and Shareen(and Camden, our tech guy!)Connect with your Inspired by Aloha (IBA) crew! We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @inspiredbyaloha808Email: [email protected]

The Inspired by Aloha crew wishes you and your ʻohana a happy and healthy holiday season! In this episode, Amy, Erin, and Shareen reminisce about their favorite family holiday traditions in Hawaiʻi. Laugh, relax, and feel the festive vibes as we share heartwarming stories, cherished memories, and lots of holiday cheer. And because no celebration is complete without kanikapila, we’ll even attempt to serenade our listeners and share our joy! As we close out 2024 and the first year of our podcast, we would like to sincerely MAHALO all of our guests, supporters, listeners, and followers for being a part of this magical journey. You all helped to make this dream come true and we are so grateful to be...Inspired by Aloha!Mālama pono and see you in 2025 for Season 2! 🤗🤗🤗Connect with your Inspired by Aloha (IBA) crew! We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @inspiredbyaloha808Email: [email protected]

Bees are life! 🐝In this episode, the Inspired by Aloha crew talks story with the “dynamic duo” of Vanessa Houle and Devin Magallanes, co-owners of Kilohana Honey and Big Island Meadery in Keaʻau, Hawai’i.  Join us as we explore how this local, family-owned farm produces raw, pure honey and artisanal honey mead with a deep respect and aloha for the ʻāina and the bees. From their careful and nurturing efforts to ensure the bees thrive, to the innovative, sustainable techniques used in their production process, Vanessa and Devin are dedicated to excellence at every step. “As beekeepers, we've kind of learned over the years what our bees need. We've watched those seasonal shifts, the fluctuation in their health and when to step in, to help either create more colonies or ensure that we sustain our current colonies. It's just a symbiotic feeling of giving more than you take.” ~ Vanessa HouleWe will also learn about the time, patience, and craftsmanship that goes into each jar of honey and bottle of mead, and how the farm's commitment to quality and sustainability shines through.  Inspired by Aloha celebrates the thoughtful achievements of Vanessa and Devin and their Kilohana Honey and Big Island Meadery businesses. This small, local business is making huge, positive impacts in our islandʻs environment and communities. Check out their story and contributions at https://bigislandmeadery.com/. Connect with your Inspired by Aloha (IBA) crew! We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @inspiredbyaloha808Email: [email protected]

"If you find your passion, your life is happy and full. Here's to everyone finding their passion!" ~ Erin Thompson, IBA hostIn this episode, Amy, Erin and Shareen reflect on the lives and wisdom of three incredible women who each embody the spirit of aloha in unique ways. These guests include a Abigail Eli (a selfless pastor who has dedicated her life to serving others, EP 9), Rachel Radona (a fearless Gen Z artist whose boundless energy and creativity inspire change, EP 10), and Christina Gabriel (a successful, thriving hotel general manager in Hawaiʻi who rose to the top by embracing both her career and the richness of Hawaiian culture, EP 11).These mana wāhine shared how embracing all aspects of who we are, and taking the time to discover our passions, is the key to living an authentic and joyful life. Through their stories, the Inspired by Aloha hosts learn invaluable lessons about the importance of not judging others, the power of giving aloha to everyone we meet, and the essential truth that the greatest love we can offer is love for ourselves. Connect with your Inspired by Aloha (IBA) crew! We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @inspiredbyaloha808Email: [email protected]

“When I first started in this industry, I had the privilege of being a part of this training led by Dr. George Kanahele….and I was fascinated and captivated. The information that he shared truly resonated with me and I carried it through my entire career. And one of the things that he said was that when you say ʻaloha,ʻ you have to mean it. And if you don't mean it, then don't use it. And so I remembered that throughout my career.” ~ Christina Gabriel, Inspirational Leader and General Manager In this episode of Inspired by Aloha, we dive into the remarkable story of Christina Gabriel, General Manager of one of Hawaiʻi’s newest lodging establishments in Waikiki. Born and raised on Oʻahu, this Pearl City native was first introduced to Hawaiʻi’s travel industry by observing her hardworking grandparents who both dedicated their lives to the hotel industry. Fueled by their legacy, she faced skepticism and challenges head-on. Despite being told she wouldn’t succeed in her college program, she persevered, climbing the ranks at major hotel chains across three Hawaiian islands and successfully inspiring others throughout her 30+ year travel industry career. Today as a prominent general manager, Christina has not only shattered the glass ceiling in a male-dominated field, but also remains deeply committed to honoring Hawaiʻi’s indigenous people and ʻāina. By collaborating with Native Hawaiian cultural practitioners, she ensures that visitors learn about Hawaii's rich history and traditions, emphasizing that the islands are more than just a tourist destination—they are a vibrant community with invaluable lessons on living with aloha.Join the Inspired by Aloha hui as we hear her incredible journey, the wisdom she’s gained along the way, and her vision for a more culturally respectful and enriching travel experience in Hawaii. Connect with your Inspired by Aloha (IBA) crew! We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @inspiredbyaloha808Email: [email protected]

“Sometimes when everybody dreams about goals or what they want to reach in life, sometimes you feel like you have to do everything at once and you have to keep on pushing no matter what. But I've learned that good things take time and you definitely have to give yourself time to rest, time to grow, and good things will come eventually.” ~ Rachel Radona, Inspirational Muralist and DesignerThe ʻōlelo noʻeau, “Aʻohe pau ka ʻike i ka hālau hoʻokahi” teaches us that “Not all knowledge comes from the same school; one can learn from many sources.” In this episode, Inspired by Aloha podcasters and Gen Xers Amy, Erin, and Shareen learn from a vibrant, articulate, and authentic up and coming artist, Rachel Radona. Her positive enthusiasm and aloha shows up in all of her endeavors as a UH Mānoa student athlete, inspirational artist, muralist, t-shirt designer, and entrepreneur. Throughout the episode, Rachel exudes a charming optimism that will keep you smiling. She shares her unique perspective on aloha and what it means to her as kanaka ʻōiwi and a member of Generation Z. This lighthearted and fun conversation will not only entertain you, but showcases the promise, value, and hope of our future generations who live aloha. “...to not know where my future is going right now is super exciting. That's like the best part ever because there's so many things out there that are open to me. There's so many doors that I have yet to step into. So that's the best part. I don't think anybody should be scared to have no clue what they're doing.” ~ Rachel RadonaConnect with your Inspired by Aloha (IBA) crew! We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @inspiredbyaloha808Email: [email protected]

Disclaimer: Please note that some topics discussed in this episode, including sexual assault and domestic violence, may not be suitable for children. Listener discretion is advised.“When people are at their worst is when they need to be loved the most.” ~ Abigail Eli"Inspired by Aloha" spotlights the extraordinary journeys of everyday heroes who make a difference in our world. In this episode, our hosts meet one of these exceptional champions, Abigail Eli, who shares her remarkable story of struggle and triumph, which ultimately inspires her to live a life full of compassion for others. At a young age, Abi witnessed an act of bullying that ignited her passion for justice and hope. Since then, her journey has included helping those in need, fostering a loving home for her own children as well as numerous foster children, and providing a safe haven and educational opportunities for many more. “Doing nothing is not an option. And I went home knowing that I needed to help these kids. And I could understand that one of the biggest things was education.” ~ Abigail EliCourageously overcoming her own trauma of assault and abuse, Abi has emerged stronger than ever. Today, she serves as the founder and executive director for the Makaha Community Center and the successful Christmas for Keiki Project. She has been featured in various articles and news reports for her visionary philanthropic work that supports Oʻahu’s Leeward Coast families. Her unwavering commitment to bringing hope and support to families is truly inspiring.Connect with your Inspired by Aloha (IBA) crew! We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @inspiredbyaloha808Email: [email protected]

"If we quiet our minds, and we slow down a little bit, you see things that are always there, but they're ʻpatiently waiting for our wits to grow sharper,ʻ so that we can see and embrace and participate in this life with them." ~ Erin Thompson, IBA HostIn this episode, Amy, Erin, and Shareen come together to reflect on the crucial theme of self-care, a topic that’s become more relevant than ever. They take a thoughtful pause to discuss the importance of slowing down and being present, drawing from their own experiences and past episodes.The trio revisits key moments from their conversations with a forest bathing specialist (EP 7: Shinrin Yoku with Phyllis Look) and a yoga therapist (EP 6: Healing with Jamel Soltau), both of whom shared insights on the power of pausing, connecting with nature, and tuning into the present moment. This episode offers a heartfelt reminder to take a breath, slow down, and be present. Tune in for a warm, reflective conversation that might just inspire you to carve out more space for self-care in your own life.Connect with your Inspired by Aloha (IBA) crew! We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @inspiredbyaloha808Email: [email protected]

"I think that it really kind of comes down to just noticing each other...and giving yourself permission to be full of wonder and appreciation and allowing for the miraculous and the marvelous." ~ Phyllis Look, Certified Forest Bathing GuideJoin podcasters Amy, Erin, and Shareen on a transformative journey into the world of Shinrin Yoku, the Japanese art of forest bathing. In this episode of "Inspired by Aloha," they engage in a heartfelt conversation with Phyllis Look, Hawaii's first certified forest therapy guide, and recount their personal experiences with Phyllis in the lush Mānoa Valley. Phyllis shares her deep-rooted respect for Shinrin Yoku, the science behind forest bathing, and its proven benefits for mental health and overall well-being. Embrace the healing power of nature and embark on your own journey towards inner peace and mindfulness.Connect with your Inspired by Aloha (IBA) crew! We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @inspiredbyaloha808Email: [email protected]

“Share Aloha by living it…because I am…we are.” ~ Jamel SoltauIn this episode, learn the wisdom of the mind-body connection and how we can empower ourselves to become more present and lead more meaningful lives, mind, body, heart and spirit. Join Amy, Erin and Shareen as they connect with Jamel Soltau, a certified yoga therapist, yoga instructor, and Reiki 2 practitioner. Through her insights, we'll learn how to embody and share Aloha, creating a ripple effect of love and healing.Visit Jamel at iamyoga808.comConnect with your Inspired by Aloha (IBA) crew! We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @inspiredbyaloha808Email: [email protected]

"There's nobody in the world exactly like you...we are all uniquely designed and made!" ~ Amy Shiroma, IBA hostJoin long-time friends, Amy, Erin, and Shareen, as they bring their positive energy and genuine camaraderie to the mic. In this special episode, they reflect on the last two podcasts (i.e., EP 3: Dondra Rose on Strengths and EP 4: Margaret Bailey on Education) and peel back the layers to share their own strengths as well as send out a heartfelt tribute to the educators who've made a lasting impact on their lives. It's a session filled with gratitude, laughter, and a deep appreciation for the unsung heroes who dedicate their lives to education and making a difference in Hawaiʻi. You'll leave feeling uplifted, inspired, and reminded of just how special and important each and every one of us truly is. Connect with your Inspired by Aloha (IBA) crew! We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @inspiredbyaloha808Email: [email protected]

"The world is your classroom." ~ Margaret BaileyEducators play a significant role in our society, serving as mentors, guides, and champions of knowledge. They dedicate their lives to nurturing young minds, empowering students to reach their full potential, and fostering a love for learning that lasts a lifetime. In this episode, join Amy, Erin, and Shareen as they embark on a heartfelt conversation with the remarkable educator, Margaret Bailey. With over 60 years of dedicated service to education, Margaret shares her insights, experiences, and unwavering commitment to her students' successes.Connect with your Inspired by Aloha (IBA) crew! We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @inspiredbyaloha808Email: [email protected]

"Don't waste another moment on your mediocrity. Instead, focus on where your superpowers are!" ~ Dondra RoseThere is no one in the world who is exactly like you! Every single one of us is special and unique. In this episode, join the Inspired by Aloha crew as they talk story with Native Hawaiian lomilomi practitioner, wellness counselor, and innovative strengths coach, Dondra Rose. This deep dive discussion into harnessing your strengths and knowing how amazing you are is the first step to honoring, celebrating, and living the life you always dreamed of.  Visit Dondra at dondrarose.comConnect with your Inspired by Aloha (IBA) crew! We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @inspiredbyaloha808Email: [email protected]

Join "Inspired by Aloha" hosts, Amy, Erin, and Shareen, as they take you on a heartwarming journey down memory lane to reminisce about their Hanabata Daze and childhood experiences of growing up in Hawaiʻi. In this special episode, these three longtime friends share nostalgic tales of beach days, B52 cockroach bombers, da manapua man, and more! Through laughter, anecdotes, and heartfelt reflections, the trio celebrates the privilege of being raised in Hawaiʻi and the enduring impact of Aloha in their lives.   Connect with your Inspired by Aloha (IBA) crew! We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @inspiredbyaloha808Email: [email protected]

Episode 1: Welcome to Inspired by Aloha sets the stage for an exploration of friendship, Hawaiian culture, and the power of Aloha in our daily lives. Amy, Erin, and Shareen share the foundation of their 35-year friendship and express their intention to build community while inspiring positivity and hope throughout the world. As they embark on this new venture, they invite listeners to join them in discovering the transformative power of Aloha in their own lives.Connect with your Inspired by Aloha (IBA) crew! We look forward to hearing from you!Instagram: @inspiredbyaloha808Email: [email protected]