The Kupunawiki's Podcast

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 05/09/26 | Jason shared his journey of becoming a Certified Financial Planner and building his own financial planning firm over the past 14 years. He explained the important role financial planners play in helping individuals and families navigate complex financial decisions while staying current in an ever-changing industry. He also discussed the high cost of living in Hawai‘i, especially rising medical expenses and long-term care costs, and how proper planning can help families make informed financial choices. He emphasized the importance of simplicity, budgeting, maintaining liquidity, and preserving assets to create long-term financial stability. Jason also highlighted how the ability to continue working and saving can greatly support retirement and help families stay financially secure while living in the islands.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 05/02/26 | Travis shared his journey with Andrews Advisory Associates and what inspired him to serve the kupuna community. Driven by a passion for helping others, he focuses on guiding clients through financial planning with care and clarity. He emphasized the importance of working with an experienced financial planner who can address a wide range of needs, especially as financial challenges continue to evolve. Travis also highlighted the value of having a solid plan, building emergency funds, and being prepared for the unexpected to achieve peace of mind. His approach centers on offering thoughtful options while helping clients choose the best path for their individual goals.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 04/25/26 | Dr. Cullen shares his long journey in the medical field, starting in Ohio and continuing his work in Hawaii since 1978. He has dedicated his life to helping the community and finds deep meaning in serving others. He also talks about his book, which focuses on active aging and how people can continue to grow and live a full life as they get older. He shares how some may lose interest in caring for themselves, but with the right mindset and support, healthy aging is possible. Dr. Cullen also discusses the growing aging population in Hawaii and how it is shaping long-term care, while encouraging kupuna to stay active, connected, and supported.

Gary shares how he started a caregiver foundation after seeing a big need for support in Hawaii. His journey began at a young age when he helped care for his grandfather. For the past 19 years, the caregiver foundation has grown into a trusted resource for kupuna. He explains how having a trustworthy caregiver and a third-party support system can help families manage care and finances with less stress while aging with dignity. Gary also shares simple tips on planning ahead and avoiding scams, and talks about the challenges of caregiving in today’s generation.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 04/11/26 | Dr. Wee shares how she reached 10 years with Walk With A Doc Oʻahu and the hard work it took to get there. Her life experiences helped shape her passion to serve families and kupuna in Oahu. She focuses on guiding the community through simple, healthy habits like walking and better daily living. Every week, she educates and supports others in living a healthier life. She also shares her work as an author and her mission to help people manage obesity through simple steps, including following a new food pyramid for a longer, healthier life.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 04/04/26 | Rachel shares her journey as a gerontologist who serves communities across the country and was invited to support kupuna in Hawaii. She began her work in dementia care in 2013, which grew into her passion to help and guide others. She is also an author and writes the blog “Dementia by Day,” where she shares real stories from her experiences. Rachel started her consulting practice in 2016, helping families better understand and care for loved ones with dementia. She explains the importance of being gentle, patient, and understanding each person’s reality, especially when they experience confusion over time.

Mark and Clifton share their background and how they started working at ʻIlima at Leihano. They talk about how the community supports kupuna by promoting aging with aloha and making everyone feel welcome. They highlight the Heirloom Program, which helps residents live with dignity, purpose, and joy while staying healthy, active, and engaged. They also explain how their memory care is designed based on each resident’s needs and interests. They share activities like gardening, games, and crafts, and how they keep residents active and involved every day.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 03/21/26 | Darlene shares her journey of serving kupuna in Hawaii, starting as a nurse and now becoming the CEO of a care home. She has been with Palolo Chinese Home for 23 years, after first working as an administrator. This year, they are celebrating 130 years of caring for the community. She explains how they started by helping elderly men and grew to serve all kupuna in Oahu. Darlene also talks about their services, facilities, meal-to-go program, volunteer efforts, and upcoming events.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 03/14/26 | Marian explains that EAH Housing is a non-profit organization that provides affordable housing for kupuna in Hawaii. The organization has been serving communities for 57 years and began operating in Hawaii in 1996. Their mission is to support kupuna, especially during important life transitions. Marian also shares her personal reason for continuing to serve the community in her role as Vice President. She talks about how EAH Housing adapts to changes today by partnering with financing programs and highlights their new housing community, Aloha Ia Halewiliko, which opened in August and is currently leasing units.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 02/28/26 | Kathy shares how she pioneered her own Adult Day Care after seeing the growing need among Kupuna facing aging and disability. She explains that Adult Day Care is an important and more affordable part of today’s long-term care system in Hawaii, especially as the senior population continues to grow and some facilities closed during COVID. Kathy also highlights that many caregivers are not fully aware of the resources available to support Kupuna. She talks about how her center adapted through life transitions, what families can expect, and what a typical day looks like in her Adult Day Care. She also announces her new location in Aiea.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 02/21/26 | Allen shares his journey to becoming a Supervisor at Kupuna Life and how his personal decision to serve kupuna in the community grew into a true passion for caregiving. He talks about what Kupuna Life offers through its in-home care services, helping seniors age in place with dignity, compassion, and dependable support. More than just caretaking, their team provides meaningful companionship and partners closely with families by taking on daily responsibilities for their loved ones. A unique part of their service is that care plans can be personalized to meet each kupuna’s specific needs, ensuring thoughtful and high-quality support every step of the way.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 02/14/26 | Harrison shares how serving as a pastor to a small group of seniors inspired him to support Kupuna in the community. Hearing their stories and challenges led him to help create an Adult DayCare Community. He explains the services they provide to help Kupuna age comfortably, safely, and with dignity, and why having someone watch over them is so important. He also mentions that falls are one of the most common reasons Kupuna are hospitalized, as many become more prone to losing balance with age. Adult DayCare is a safer, healthier, and more affordable option for many families.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 02/07/26 | Dr. Ries shares how he works with trauma, especially with Kupuna, and how he guides them through the healing process. He talks about settling in Hawaii and building his practice there over the years. His focus on deep, existential conversations is what sets him apart from other therapists. He highlights the strong compassion and deep ʻohana connections in Hawaii and explains why mental health is just as important as physical health. Dr. Ries also discusses psychological assessments, Lomi Lomi, and how cognitive decline affects end-of-life psychological care.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 01/31/26 | Marian shares her path into leadership at EAH Housing, one of the longest-standing nonprofit housing developers serving California and Hawaii for over 57 years. She discusses how EAH Housing preserves affordable communities and helps prevent housing from being converted to market-rate units, while supporting nearly 25,000 individuals and families. She also explains how their team balances development and operations to keep everything running smoothly. The episode highlights Aloha Iā Halewiliko, a new 140-unit affordable senior housing community in ‘Aiea, designed with parks, lounge spaces, and amenities that support aging with dignity.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 01/24/26 | Tony shares what makes his local Hawaii cabinet company different and how they keep costs low. He talks about his daily work and why safety upgrades are important. He explains ADA requirements and proper measurements to make homes safer for Kupuna. Also discusses how cameras, alarms, and detectors help families support Kupuna aging at home. He advises clients to prioritize essential upgrades within their budget and highlights how elevated platforms help in multi-level homes.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 01/17/26 | Erin shares her journey into property management, with five years in real estate and two years as an active property manager. She discusses why Oʻahu’s real estate market remains strong and how property management continues to thrive. Erin explains how advisors' property management supports different types of properties while building meaningful, family-like relationships with tenants. She also introduces their new Asset Management service, designed to care for rental properties when landlords are away or unavailable. This episode highlights the value of being proactive, choosing the right tenants, and maintaining strong communication to care for both people and properties.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 01/10/26 | Nova shares her passion for guiding families through the home financing journey. She discusses the different loan options available, how each one works, and the benefits they can offer depending on a buyer’s needs. Nova also emphasizes the importance of thoroughly understanding her clients’ goals, enabling her to narrow down options and recommend the best next steps to help them move forward with confidence.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 01/03/26 | Brandon Lau and Andrew Leong discuss their years of experience in the real estate industry and how they’ve successfully navigated changing market cycles. They explain how real estate advisors guide both sellers and buyers through every step of the process, ensuring informed and confident decisions. The conversation highlights how modern services have become more accessible and how advisors play a crucial role in connecting all parties involved in a transaction. They also emphasize that strong market knowledge benefits the entire community, particularly in effective negotiation. Additionally, Andrew Leong shares insights into launching his new company, Advisors Realty, and the fresh service model and approach it brings to the industry.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 12/27/25 | Troy explains how seniors can use a 1031 exchange to move their investment funds into alternative options like Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs). He shares how this strategy can help reduce taxes while still generating income. He talks about how a 1031 exchange compares to selling a property outright, especially for long-term financial planning. He also explains how seniors can transition from active property management to earning passive income. Troy highlights the risks and challenges to consider before doing a 1031 exchange. Finally, he discusses how this strategy can affect estate planning and inheritance.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 12/20/25 | Geoff talks about his work at Bonner Sogi & Associates, A Law Corporation, where he has been since 2017. He shares how family conflicts can happen during estate planning and what steps can help prevent them. He explains that every family is different and that understanding each person’s personality is very important, and talks about where these conflicts often start and how he helps all family members understand the process. He also explains why keeping original documents safe is important, and shares how misunderstandings and unequal financial needs can cause more conflict if they are not addressed early.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 12/13/25 | In this episode, Kevin shares how he got into trust administration and why he decided to go to law school. He talks about how he works with families and why the community trusts him with these matters. Kevin explains why it is important to read and understand the whole trust before starting the process. He shares real examples of challenges and how he helps families both emotionally and practically. Kevin also talks about common problems, especially poor communication, and how long the process usually takes. He explains what a trustee can do and makes sure all taxes and responsibilities are handled properly.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 12/06/25 | Scott shares how he has been practicing since 1983 and how he started his own estate planning firm. He explains the importance of understanding the problem, knowing what you can do about it, and getting correct and helpful information. Scott talks about how estate planning covers many parts of life and why it should not be ignored. He also shares how he works through challenges by finding solutions instead of avoiding them. He reminds listeners that estate planning is a process, not a destination, and planning early can help you avoid pitfalls. He also shares stories of how he helped people get back on track through proper estate planning.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 11/29/25 | In this episode, Gale gives a simple overview of what a reverse mortgage is and how it works. She explains how this type of loan can be used for your home and how to make the most of it, while also sharing how cash flow planning and long-term care can support aging in place. She works closely with people in the community, helping them manage their mortgage and understand their options, and also talks about line of credit choices and the age requirements for getting a reverse mortgage. Gale reminds listeners that starting early can lead to a more secure future.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 11/22/25 | Jason shares his 15 years of experience helping the community with financial planning. He explains how his team guides people to feel safe and confident about their money, and talks about the importance of discipline in retirement planning. He also highlights how emotional intelligence helps you make better financial decisions. Lastly, he gives tips on preparing for rising healthcare costs in retirement.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 11/15/25 | Daniel shared that 19 years ago, a financial planner approached him and changed his life. He talked about how passionate he is about his work and how he helps people manage their finances. He explained how they build multigenerational relationships that start with clients and often grow into lasting friendships. Daniel also discussed how inflation and the rising cost of living affect people, and how the right investments can help support and maintain their lifestyle over time. He shared strategies and ideas on how to stretch investments for the long run, assist people with fixed incomes, and help them plan for retirement.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 11/08/25 | Tamara shared how this practice has shaped her life over the past eight years and how she eventually moved to Hawaii. She talked about Health Markets, a platform that provides different insurance options. She explained how the eligibility process works and the services people can access. Tamara guides clients from beginning to end to help them get the best Medicare support. She makes the insurance process easier to understand, especially during emergencies. She also highlighted the importance of aging in place, how care may change in the next 20 years, and how Guaranteed Life Insurance continues to support the community.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 11/01/25 | Jason shared about his 20 years of experience in finance and how he started his own practice 14 years ago. He helps people with finance, real estate, tax, insurance, and investments, putting everything together to build a strong plan. He shares why long-term care planning is important, especially for our Kupuna, and how it can support both health and finances. He also shares how advisors and government programs can help families prepare for a more secure future.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 10/25/25 | Dr. Miller shares her inspiring journey of more than 30 years as a psychologist and private practitioner in Hawai‘i, helping people navigate life’s many changes. She talks about her work with Kupuna and how she uses the “tail of the comet” analogy to guide families in supporting their loved ones, emphasizing the importance of paying attention to life transitions and addressing challenges with awareness and care. She also shares how she helps clients open up, especially when denial becomes a barrier to progress. Through her compassionate approach, Dr. Miller encourages families to focus on understanding, balance, and the brighter side of every situation.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 10/18/25 | Kingsada shares her journey from social services to joining Bristol Hospice, where she supports families through compassionate care. She explains how palliative and hospice care help Kupuna and their loved ones during life’s most vulnerable times. She highlights the difference between both services, with hospice focusing on person-centered care and palliative care offering comfort at any stage of illness, and shares how social workers play a key role in guiding patients and families through this process. Her insights remind us that true care goes beyond physical needs, touching the emotional and spiritual well-being of each person and family.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 10/11/25 | Born and raised in Nepal, Yojana shares her inspiring journey to Hawai‘i and her 15 years of experience in geriatrics. She talks about how dehydration often affects Kupuna and the importance of proper care and nutrition, and also explains how vitamin deficiencies and body imbalances can impact overall health. She encourages listeners to make hydration fun by adding natural fruits to water and keeping meals colorful and fresh. Her message highlights that balance, mindfulness, and small healthy choices can help maintain a happy, active lifestyle.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 10/4/25 | Dr. Wee shares practical tips on how to stay mindful about what you eat, especially during the upcoming holiday season. She discusses transforming family time and household chores into enjoyable ways to stay active and connected. She is also an author, discussing her book, which is designed to guide parents who may be struggling to keep their families healthy. She highlights how portion control, mindful eating, and slowing down at mealtime can help you enjoy food while staying healthy and happy.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 9/27/25 | Daniel, born and raised in Hawaii, shares his journey from managing large communities to becoming Executive Director of Ivy Hawaii Kai in 2024. Listeners will learn what makes the community unique, from its one-stop support for Kupuna to the strong partnership with Welltower. He discusses challenges while highlighting solutions that keep residents comfortable. The episode also covers their dedicated chef, engaging activities, and the reasonable cost of living at Ivy Hawaii Kai.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 9/20/25 | Randeatte shares her 19-year journey and how she transitioned into her role as a Regional Property Manager for Affordable Senior Rentals in Hawaii. She explains how area median income applies to rentals and the impact affordable housing has on the community. Randeatte also highlights the role of federal regulations and the programs that support residents in senior housing. With many affordable rental options available for Kupuna, she emphasizes their value and accessibility. Despite the challenges, she remains focused on the positive outcomes that affordable housing provides.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 9/13/25 | Craig shares his journey in senior living, which began 12 years ago, and talks about the value of passing on what you’ve learned to make a lasting impact in the industry. He highlights how Kahala Nui is reinvesting in the community, focusing on new technology, and preparing for the future as a life-planned community. He also explains how wellness and technology go hand in hand to support residents, especially Kupuna. From health monitoring to preventive tools, Kahala Nui is finding innovative ways to care for its community every step of the way.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 9/6/25 | Todd shares how he learned the family business 15 years ago and continues their legacy through Caring Manoa and Living Nuuanu in supporting Hawaii’s Kupuna and their families. He talks about his hospitality approach, the services and activities they offer, and how technology helps them provide specialized care. With the support of his family, Todd emphasizes being hands-on with residents and highlights how a strong culture makes a lasting impact in this industry.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 8/30/25 | Tony Shi has lived in Hawaii since 1990 and discovered his passion for real estate and construction early on, earning his license in 2001. With over 15 years of experience, he shares how he helps homeowners by sourcing the right materials, addressing Hawaii’s moisture challenges, and managing projects from start to finish. Tony also shares how long it typically takes to secure permits for this kind of work in Hawaii.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 8/23/25 | Gary shares how The Caregiver Foundation, a homegrown Hawai‘i nonprofit, supports the community through caregiver awareness and resources for kūpuna. He talks about the importance of caregiver support, enjoying life while aging gracefully, and the value of youth caregiver programs. Gary also shares their vision for a future Kūpuna Village, a one-stop shop for the community. He also highlights Starlight Fancies, its mission, challenges, and community impact, and offers a preview of the event featuring music, food, auctions, and a joyful time together.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 8/16/25 | Damian shares his 25 years of therapy experience and how Thrive for Life helps make homes safer and more accessible. From assessing gait speed to installing grab bars, lifts, and smart-home features, he explains how families and kūpuna can live more comfortably and independently. He also highlights community resources that can assist with home modifications.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 8/9/25 | Erin shares her perspective as a property manager, discussing common pitfalls and real-life experiences with clients. She explains the benefits of professional management, from navigating tenant agreements to handling challenges with unqualified renters. Erin also highlights how proper care and timely maintenance can maximize a property’s value, while neglect can reduce it. She offers practical recommendations on documentation and organization to help clients better manage and protect their properties.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 8/2/25 | In this special real estate update, KupunaWiki hosts Brandon Lau and Andrew Leong discuss the latest trends shaping Hawaii’s housing market. They explore how the role of real estate agents is evolving, what buyers and sellers need to know in a shifting market, and how to navigate today’s challenges. Tune in for expert insights, practical strategies, and a look at what services remain essential in the ever-changing world of real estate.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 7/26/25 | Tanya Fernandes, CEO of Ho‘okele Health, joins us to talk about keeping care affordable for Hawaii’s seniors. She shares her journey in the home care field and what makes Ho‘okele’s caregiving approach unique. Tune in for helpful insights on navigating care costs and making informed senior care decisions.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 7/19/25 | Dennis Hwang from the University of Hawaii Sea Grant College Program joins us to discuss disaster preparedness in Hawaii. He shares how residents, especially seniors, can prepare for hurricanes, floods, and other hazards. From insurance tips to structural improvements, this episode is packed with advice to help protect your home and loved ones.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 7/12/25 | We’re joined by Harrison Peters to discuss the growing need for nurse aides in Hawaii. Harrison shares his journey, the challenges he faced, and his passion for training future caregivers. Learn the steps to becoming a nurse aide and what seniors should consider when seeking care. Tune in for insight and resources to support our kupuna and those who care for them.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 7/5/25 | In this episode of the KupunaWiki Radio Show, Dr. Richard Ries, Clinical Psychologist, joins us to discuss anxiety and acceptance in terminally ill elders. Learn how families and caregivers can provide meaningful support, ease fear, and help kupuna find peace during their final chapter.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 6/28/25 | In this episode, we feature Troy Wada, CEO of INPAC Wealth Solutions, where hosts Brandon Lau and Andrew Leong talk with Troy about protecting retirement savings, balancing risk and income, managing taxes, and planning for long-term care. With practical, Hawai‘i-focused advice, this conversation helps seniors build confidence in their financial future and ensure a smooth transfer of wealth to the next generation.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 6/21/25 | In this episode, Brandon Lau and Andrew Leong sit down with Geoff J. Sogi of Bonner Sogi & Associates to talk Cost-Effective Estate Planning. Geoff explains the essential documents you need, how to avoid probate, and smart, affordable strategies to protect your family’s future. Perfect for anyone looking to plan ahead without breaking the bank, this episode delivers practical advice tailored for Hawai‘i families.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 6/14/25 | In this episode, Brandon Lau and Andrew Leong are joined by Kevin Shiinoki, President of Guardian Capital Management Hawaii, to discuss Trust Administration Basics. Kevin shares expert insights on what trustees need to know, how to avoid common mistakes, and why proper administration matters for your estate’s future. Whether you’re a trustee, beneficiary, or simply preparing for the future, this episode breaks down the essentials in an easy-to-understand way.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 6/7/25 | In this episode, Brandon Lau and Andrew Leong spoke with estate planning attorney Scott Makuakane of Est8Planning Counsel LLC. Scott breaks down “Estate Planning for Dummies,” explaining when to start planning, essential documents everyone should have, and unique considerations for Hawai‘i residents. Whether you’re preparing for the future or helping a loved one, tune in to learn practical steps to protect your assets and your family.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 5/31/25 | Gale discusses her journey into reverse mortgages and what motivates her to help clients navigate this financial option. The episode covers common myths, who qualifies for a reverse mortgage, and the key benefits and risks involved. Gale explains how reverse mortgages affect home equity, repayment terms, fees, and the impact on heirs and estate planning, providing clear insights for those considering this option.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 5/24/25 | Jason shares his background and passion for financial planning with a focus on retirement. He discusses key steps for those beginning their retirement journey, recent trends shaping the industry, and strategies to balance present enjoyment with future security. The episode offers tailored advice for individuals and families, plus essential tips for those concerned about starting late. Listeners also learn how to connect with Jason for personalized financial guidance.