Five years on the mic feels different when you slow down and look back. We open with gratitude—listeners, guests, and day‑one sponsors—and then dive into a story of reinvention with our friend and radio pro, Becky Mits. She takes us from a tough November layoff to a whirlwind weekend in San Diego that led to a new home, a new team, and a role that finally fits: executive producer who still jumps on the mic with a fresh perspective. The reason she said yes wasn’t a bigger market; it was a healthier culture. Real collaboration, clean communication, and space to bring her voice when it counts.

Becky pulls back the curtain on modern morning radio: day‑ahead prep, log timing, phones, prizes, news beats, music flow, and why her single‑30 POV balances cohosts with families. We get into craft—cutting crutch words, board work, and the weird magic of talking solo for three minutes without a net. Life in San Diego comes with tradeoffs and perks: stolen packages and street noise, but also Padres games, SeaWorld throwbacks, LA concerts, and actual hoodies weather. She’s honest about privacy too—enjoying low-key anonymity after Hawaii and keeping a new relationship off social while still sharing life on-air.

We also celebrate personal milestones: wedding memories, a father–daughter dance that shook the room, and the everyday work of parenting a teenager with trust and guardrails. On the business side, we break down “Leid Back,” our R&B day party built for grown energy—great DJs, early evenings, sold‑out vibes, and smart scaling. If you’re chasing a pivot, this conversation is a blueprint: protect your mindset, choose your rooms carefully, and let gratitude fuel momentum.

If this resonated, follow the show, share it with a friend, and drop a rating with one takeaway you’re bringing into your next chapter.

 This week we sit down with Maegan, the baker behind Meggles Makes, to trace how a childhood love of crepes and banana bread turned into a dessert brand locals plan their week around. From her first Ziploc brownie sales to sellouts at Whiskey Smoke, she walks us through the honest steps of going full time: tightening costs, pricing for profit, managing inflation, planning bake days, and shooting content that actually converts.

What makes this journey pop is the mix of craft and community. Maegan shares how Kaneohe neighbors became customers, how Corey and the Whiskey Smoke family opened doors, and why certain flavors win next to barbecue. We get into the signature ube cheesecake that converts skeptics, the year-round staples that anchor the menu, and the seasonal surge of pumpkin chantilly, pumpkin crunch, and pumpkin cheesecake that flies off shelves. She’s candid about experiments that flopped, why she added gluten-free options, and how she reads demand signals so she can scale without overbaking or disappointing regulars.

At the core is a steady mindset fueled by faith and family. Maegan talks about losing her dad, the push he gave her to chase big dreams, and the daily rituals that keep her grounded—journaling, prayer, and showing up even when the week hits hard. A chance moment with a diner who stopped to pray for her becomes a turning point, a reminder that resilience is as essential as butter and eggs. If you’re building a food business, you’ll find practical tactics here: batching work, using Instagram trends with intention, pairing flavors for context, and letting customer feedback shape production. If you’re looking for courage, you’ll find that too.

Craving more? Follow Meggals Makes for weekly restocks at Whiskey Smoke, watch for the Thanksgiving menu, and get there early if you want a slice. If this conversation fed you, subscribe, share it with a friend who needs a push, and drop a review to help more listeners find us.

This week Atbpod sits down with Kyani Bateman model, mentor, and cofounder of Pakolea—to trace her path from kid commercials and pageantry to building a community-first agency with her partner, photographer Darren. She shares how social media became a living portfolio, why brands care about personality as much as pictures, and how a fierce feed can coexist with a grounded, aloha-driven life.

Kyani pulls back the curtain on runway realities: quick changes, six-inch heels, and the mental game that starts long before call time. She breaks down the difference between influencers and professional models, explains how to make reels and day-in-the-life content work for bookings, and tells the unfiltered stories rolled ankles, missed cues, and all that forged her resilience. We explore Hawaii’s collaborative backstage culture versus Miami’s every-model-for-themselves pace, underscoring how character shows on stage and in the camera.

The heart of the episode is Pakolea’s model-first blueprint. The academy teaches posing, runway technique, comp cards, consent, and ethics; the agency represents ready talent with fair, modest commissions so models keep more of their pay. No height gatekeeping, no mean-girl energy just a clear interview process to protect culture and safety. Kyani encourages smart choices about paid vs unpaid work, networking with intention, and taking uncomfortable opportunities that expand skill and confidence. She also opens up about building a business with her boyfriend , communicating through creative decisions, and keeping trust at the center.

We wrap with big goals: more global bookings, pop-up workshops from LA to New York, and a personal dream to walk the Victoria’s Secret runway. If you care about modeling, content creation, or creative careers built on values, this story is your blueprint. Listen, share with someone chasing their first casting, and leave a review so we can bring more conversations like this to your feed.

A coach who builds tougher teams with softer hands. A singer who swapped liquid courage for real conviction. A Hawaii-born artist designing a sound that can live anywhere. That mix is Mahina—grounded, generous, and ready for the world.

We dive into her journey from playing shortstop and coaching high school softball to writing radio-ready songs that people can’t stop singing. She explains how standards changed since her playing days and why positive discipline, respect, and real-life accountability help young athletes grow into strong people. Then we trace her creative arc—from recording vocals in a bathroom with GarageBand to building a collaboration-first workflow with manager Romeo Valientine and producer Mad Mat, shaping hooks that travel and verses that feel true. The origin of “Stay With Me,” her DM to Tehani, and the leap from backyard studios to polished mixes show how persistence and community can turn a good idea into a charting single.

Faith and sobriety now sit at the center of her life. Mahina talks candidly about letting go of alcohol, shedding stage nerves, and trusting God to lead rather than bargaining for outcomes. That surrender changed her performances, clarified her choices, and fed her writing. The new single leans into betrayal and comes out brighter—pain reframed as fuel, a chorus that’s easy to carry, and verses that move from crying in the shower to laughing in the mirror. Call it “Mahina World”: a blend of R&B, pop, and island reggae that nods to old-school soul while reaching for global playlists. Offstage, she draws on years as a caregiver, where listening, patience, and presence became second nature—and where empathy turned work into family.

There’s more on the way: a 10-track album slated for next year, singles rolling out ahead of release, dream collabs, and shows where she’ll tease a few unreleased cuts. Until then, you’ll find her coaching, writing in notebooks, posting more consistently, and remembering why she started—to make music people feel and to help her community shine. If this story moved you, follow and subscribe, share the episode with a friend who needs the lift, and leave a quick review so more listeners can discover Mahina’s voice.

What happens when a lifelong passion is suddenly put on hold? In this deeply personal conversation, we journey alongside a former collegiate volleyball player Kayla Kilaulani "KK" whose devastating ACL and MCL tear forced her to reimagine her identity beyond the court. Her story reveals the remarkable resilience that athletes develop and how those qualities translate to unexpected career paths.

The conversation takes us through KK's extraordinary childhood battle with meningitis at age 11—a disease that temporarily robbed her of basic functions like walking and talking—and how the experience of having to relearn everything shaped her approach to future challenges. This foundation of resilience would later serve her when transitioning from competitive volleyball to a thriving career in television production.

We explore the fascinating world of broadcast media through her experiences at Hawaii News Now, where she quickly advanced from curious visitor to skilled Technical Media Producer. Her detailed explanation of directing live newscasts offers rare behind-the-scenes insights into what happens in the control room during broadcasts. Most exciting is her role in developing a new high school sports broadcasting program that showcases student-athletes from underrepresented Hawaiian islands.

Throughout our discussion, powerful themes emerge about embracing change, finding strength in vulnerability, and the critical importance of being present in the moment. Her perspective on balancing ambition with well-being and her thoughtful critique of social media's impact on authentic experiences offer wisdom that transcends sports and broadcasting.

Whether you're facing a career transition, recovering from setback, or simply looking for inspiration to take more initiative in your life, this conversation reminds us that our greatest challenges often reveal unexpected paths forward. Listen now to discover how the mindset of an athlete can transform any obstacle into opportunity.

Ever wondered what happens when your dinner companion whips out their phone before you can take your first bite? In this captivating conversation with Landon from High Grindz (@high_grindz), we dive deep into the world of food content creation in Hawaii, revealing the fascinating journey from casual dining to influential posting.

Landon shares how his Instagram account began as a simple suggestion from a friend to document the restaurants he was already visiting. What started as casual food photography has evolved into a nearly daily content creation schedule, filming approximately five days a week at eateries across the islands. Unlike many mainland influencer scenes characterized by cutthroat competition, Landon describes Hawaii's creator community as uniquely supportive.

The conversation takes unexpected turns as Landon reveals his double life - creating mouthwatering food content while maintaining a full-time career as an orthopedic physical therapist at Queen's Hospital. This balance between passion and profession offers listeners a refreshing perspective on content creation as an extension of genuine interests rather than a primary career. From his nostalgic collaboration with Crazy Shirts to his viral Botox experience video, Landon demonstrates how authentic content resonates with audiences beyond just food posts.

What makes this episode particularly insightful is Landon's candid approach to content ethics. He explains his philosophy of only posting positive experiences rather than criticizing disappointing restaurants - a stance that reflects the spirit of aloha while maintaining credibility with his audience. Using nothing more than an iPhone and simple editing apps, Landon proves that compelling content stems from genuine passion rather than expensive equipment or technical expertise.

Whether you're a foodie looking for your next great meal, an aspiring content creator, or simply curious about the people behind those perfect food shots delaying your dinner, this episode offers a satisfying glimpse into the evolving relationship between social media, food culture, and authentic Hawaiian values. Follow @high_grindz on Instagram to discover your next favorite eatery!

What if the secret to lifelong fitness wasn't found in trendy gym routines or cutting-edge equipment, but in movements that make everyday life better? 

Ky Vuong, owner of Key Fitness Hawaii, brings over three decades of expertise to this eye-opening conversation about functional fitness. Beginning with a touching story of how helping a depressed 70-year-old widower at his local YMCA launched his career, Ky shares why training for real life produces better results than traditional gym approaches.

The standout innovation discussed is Ky's revolutionary Fit Truck – a mobile fitness unit equipped to train up to 30 people simultaneously anywhere with parking space. This game-changing concept is already transforming how volleyball clubs, football teams, and everyday fitness enthusiasts approach training in Hawaii.

Beyond equipment, Ky delves into his science-based approach to unilateral training, explaining how exercises that work one side of the body create stronger stabilizing muscles crucial for everything from carrying children to maintaining balance as we age. He challenges conventional wisdom about nutrition, drawing from his Asian heritage to advocate for sustainable eating rather than restrictive dieting.

Perhaps most valuable is his insight into motivation – finding each person's unique "dangling carrot" that drives their fitness journey. Whether you're a competitive athlete, a busy parent, or a senior looking to maintain independence, this conversation offers practical wisdom for training that enhances life rather than consuming it.

Ready to rethink what fitness means for your life? Listen now, then connect with Keevon on Instagram at @Fit4U3000 or visit keyfitnesshawaii.com to experience the difference functional training can make.

Brad Miura—known to thousands as "Unkoholics"—has transformed Hawaiian social media with his simple yet compelling "what's your name and where you from?" food sampling videos. Behind this viral sensation lies a profound story of cultural preservation, entrepreneurship, and the true meaning of aloha spirit.

From his day job as a construction project manager to his evenings spent meticulously preparing lomioio, Brad reveals the exhaustive behind-the-scenes work that goes into his seemingly effortless content. "Every day I come home from work doing something—shelling, scraping fish, chopping vegetables," he shares, highlighting a dedication to craft that's becoming increasingly rare in Hawaii. While critics occasionally question his pricing, Brad's straightforward response—"I paid 13 grand last year in taxes just from fish"—underscores the legitimate business beneath the social media persona.

What makes Brad's approach particularly significant is how he's preserving traditional Hawaiian food culture while adapting to modern platforms. In an era where many content creators chase controversy, Brad has built his following through positivity and cultural appreciation. His videos serve as mini-documentaries of Hawaiian food culture, capturing authentic reactions to traditional foods that might otherwise fade from public consciousness. This dedication extends beyond content creation to community building, with Brad frequently collaborating with other local vendors and creators.

The conversation takes unexpected turns, revealing Brad's previous life as a youth softball coach who built a non-profit program in Waipahu, providing affordable opportunities for low-income families. These glimpses into his character illuminate why his current social media success resonates so deeply—it's built on a foundation of genuine community service and aloha.

Looking ahead, Brad hopes to expand his reach across the mainland, bringing a taste of Hawaii to displaced locals while introducing new audiences to Hawaiian cuisine. His mission transcends business growth; it represents cultural ambassadorship that keeps Hawaiian traditions vibrant in an increasingly homogenized world.

Follow Unkoholicspupus on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok at @unkoholicspupus to catch his next pop-up location or simply enjoy a daily dose of authentic Hawaiian culture and community.

Have you ever wondered about the healing power hiding in plain sight within the fungal kingdom? Join us as we welcome back Clint Pahia, founder of Medicinal Mushrooms Hawaii, for a fascinating deep dive into the world of medicinal mushroom that are transforming health outcomes across Hawaii and beyond.

What began as a deeply personal quest to help his wife manage an autoimmune condition has blossomed into a thriving business offering five powerful mushroom medicines. Clint walks us through each unique fungal ally with the passion of someone who's witnessed their transformative effects firsthand. From Lion's Mane clearing brain fog and potentially preventing cognitive decline, to Chaga's remarkable antioxidant properties fighting inflammation at its root, to Red Reishi's ability to balance body systems, Turkey Tail's proven cancer-fighting properties, and Cordyceps delivering clean, crash-free energy – these aren't your typical mushrooms.

The conversation ventures into territory rarely discussed in mainstream health circles. We explore how Turkey Tail is actually prescribed as a cancer medication in Japan, the fascinating science behind how these fungi work within our bodies, and why consistency is key to experiencing their full benefits. Clint shares moving testimonials from customers whose lives have been changed, including a particularly remarkable story about pancreatic cancer regression that highlights why he continues this work despite regulatory challenges.

Ready to explore nature's pharmacy? Whether you're battling chronic health issues or simply seeking to optimize your wellbeing, this episode offers practical insights into how medicinal mushrooms might be the missing piece in your health puzzle. Visit medmushroomhi.com and use code ATBPOD for 45% off your first tincture to begin your own fungal healing journey.

Remember those days when bodyboarding was king? When names like Mike Stewart, Jeff Hubbard, and Kainoa McGee dominated our conversations and magazine covers?  Hana Ahn certainly does – and he's bringing it all back through the So Stoked Boogie Series and Triple Crown of Bodyboarding.

What started as a pandemic pivot has blossomed into a full-fledged movement. When COVID-19 shut down the football programs Ahn coached, his focus shifted to the ocean. "We turned to the water and while doing the water, the boys started to get good at bodyboarding," Ahn explains. This organic return to the waves sparked something bigger – a mission to revitalize a beloved water sport that had faded from prominence.

Today, the Triple Crown of Bodyboarding encompasses competitions at legendary spots including Sandy Beach and Pipeline, featuring six divisions from keiki (10-13 years) to professionals. Beyond traditional divisions, Ahn has introduced creative categories like synchronized bodyboarding, where two riders perform identical tricks on the same wave. This comprehensive approach isn't just about competition – it's about rebuilding an entire ecosystem that once supported professional bodyboarding, complete with sponsors, events, and pathways to professional careers.

The vision extends internationally too. Ahn has taken groups of young Hawaiian riders to Portugal for the IBC World Tour, where several reached quarterfinals and beyond. "We're trying to build the sport for the youngins," Ahn shares, "so if this is their dream and their passion, they can actually make money off of it." It's a mission to ensure this generation of bodyboarders has the same opportunities – and more – than previous ones.

Beyond the waves, Ahn is reviving the cultural scene that once surrounded bodyboarding. Through concert events featuring local artists, he's reconnecting the sport with the vibrant community atmosphere that made bodyboarding not just a sport, but a lifestyle in Hawaii.

Ready to catch this wave of bodyboarding revival? Follow @SoStokedBoogieSeries to stay updated on upcoming events, competitions, and how you can support this remarkable resurgence of Hawaii's water culture. Join us at Jolene's Bar and Grill at Kaneohe Bayview Golf Course on Friday, August 11th, for live music featuring Bengali from Innavision, Brotherhood, One Session, and Poi Bo. Tickets available on Eventbrite for $20, or $30 at the door.