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Step into the vibrant world of DJ Toma, the maestro who spun his way to victory at the 2024 "Spin It to Win It" championship. In our latest podcast episode, Toma pulls back the curtain on the electric moments that define the life of a professional DJ. He shares the pulse-quickening challenges on stage, the thrill of mastering new technology while the crowd watches, and the artistry of weaving spontaneous song requests into a seamless set. His story isn't just about music; it's a rhythmic journey through the highs and lows of a career that refuses to skip a beat.

The neon lights of Vegas have nothing on the shining stars we meet along our sonic exploration with DJ Toma. Picture a city where the DJ scene has transformed from intimate gigs to monumental residencies at hotspots like The Palms and Wynn. Toma's tales carry us through the collaborative tapestry of the industry, from the buzzing streets of LA to the storied evenings that unite us in dance and delight. 

Meanwhile, we savor the smoky, slow-cooked sagas of a BBQ venture growing from backyard basics to a bustling business ( this lil piggy) , with flavors and techniques that tantalize even the most discerning palates.

But this episode isn't just about beats and eats; it's a celebration of passion and legacy. We delve into the craft of canoe building, the lessons of motherhood, and the quest to preserve traditions that have weathered generations. Our conversation navigates through the intricacies of family, community, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Join us as DJ Toma and friends share insights that resonate beyond the turntables and the taste buds, capturing the very essence of creativity and connection.  ATBpod.com

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Ever found yourself at a crossroads, grappling with the choice to either play it safe or chase your dreams? Deah, a singer, songwriter, and model, embraced the latter, wandering from São Paulo to the Hawaiian tropics, and she joins us to share her captivating narrative. Her story is a symphony of signs and serendipities, with numbers orchestrating her every move, propelling her towards a life of music and a deep connection with her newfound island home.

Strumming through the chapters of Deah's life, we trace her melodious roots back to Brazil, where family influences and her own audacious spirit shaped her destiny. She recounts how her musical aspirations guided her, transforming gifts into opportunities, and navigating the rough waters of skepticism. Her journey underscores the courage required to transplant your life in pursuit of artistry—a journey that's not only geographical but deeply personal, filled with both harmony and discord.

Finally, we harmonize with Deah's current reality—the vibrant hues of her Hawaii life, where she plays bass against the challenge of carpal tunnel and revels in the joys of marriage. She's a soloist in an island ensemble, navigating the music industry's currents with ambition while keeping her feet firmly planted in the sandy shores of authenticity. Our conversation is a testament to the power of community and collaboration, illustrating how music is not just a career but a connection that echoes across the waves. ATBpod.com

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Ever wondered how a splash of color and a stroke of a brush can alter not just appearances, but also destinies? Manda Norstrand, Hawaii's admired makeup artist, shares her vibrant journey from tentative beginnings to crafting an illustrious beauty career. Her tale isn't just skin deep; it's an intimate exploration of the courage it takes to transform passion into a profession and the pivotal moments that chart the course from dreams to reality. Delve into Manda's story as she discusses the leap of faith that propelled her, the challenges of establishing a personal brand in the competitive makeup  industry, and the hard truths about setting boundaries and valuing her craft.

This episode isn't simply about surface beauty; it's a masterclass in mentorship and the art of empowerment. Manda walks us through her commitment to nurturing the next generation of artists, from her approach to training in Ombre powder brows to helping students navigate their own professional journeys. As she opens up about the enriching experience of guiding others to success and the importance of personal growth, listeners will feel a sense of connection to the passion that fuels both artistry and teaching. It's an uplifting narrative that underscores the impact of beauty professionals beyond the mirror, in the lives they touch and the confidence they build.

But wait, there's more to the picture than just brushes and powders. We navigate through the evolving landscape of beauty trends, from the influence of social media on young skincare enthusiasts to the transformative tales that underscore a career built on faith and perseverance.  Manda provides insight into the concerns and triumphs of teenage skincare choices, the significance of embracing one's natural beauty, and the powerful role of faith in her life decisions. Join us for a conversation that paints a vivid portrait of the beauty industry, where the hues of personal stories and professional insights blend to create a masterpiece of inspiration and wisdom.

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This week ATBpod chats with IA, whose name is a lyrical homage to his children, and whose heart is as big as his beats. Today, we're unwrapping layers of a life that intertwines the pulsing energy of Hawaii's hip hop scene with the legacy of a boxing legend, Jesus Salud. IA, thrumming with stories of growing up in the shadow of greatness, shares insights into the industry's politics and his father's enduring respect within the boxing community.

Strap in for a vibrant journey through the rhythms and rhymes of the local music scene, as we reminisce with IA about his partnership with Osna and early recording escapades. The nostalgia is real as we revisit venues echoing with the beats of our youth, and discuss the thrilling – though sometimes nerve-wracking – world of live performances. Whether opening for megastars or vibing in the gym of Nanakuli, IA navigates us through the electrifying evolution of hip hop in Hawaii, sharing tales of technology's role in catapulting island talent to the world stage.

As the beats fade and the lights dim, our conversation shifts to the beats of life itself. Parenthood casts a poignant shadow over IA's words, as he reveals the connection between his music, merch, and the bittersweet passage of time marked by our children's milestones. We dive into the personal touch of vinyl records and the role of merchandise in funding musical dreams. It's a multifaceted chat, where the consistent pulse of IA's career beats in harmony with the rhythm of growth and the melody of shaping the next generation of artists and individuals.

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This week ATBPOD.com welcomes two of  Damien Memorial School's most influential football coaches.  We chat with head coach and two time ILH coach of the year Anthony " Bones" Tuitele who led his varsity team to  win this years ILH championship. Bones is also joined by Damien's intermediate ILH championship coach Ron Dalmacio.  This episode records with a live audience of family, friends, student athletes and supporters of the Damien Memorial football coaches. The two coaches speak out for the first time, detailing the course of events of their sudden termination as coaches from Damien Memorial HS in the past few weeks. They discuss the effects it has on the current students, families, and alumni of Daniel Memorial School. 

Above the Bridge Podcast is thankful for Bones and Ron for speaking out with ATB Podcast and trusting us to produce their story. We also wanted to thank Kawika Smith of the Murphy Street Podcast for his hand in organizing this event as well as Gaven Sugai of the Kampai Sugai podcast for filming.

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Embark with us on an exhilarating exploration of the creative scene as we sit down with the illustrious videographer Vitamin B. His tapestry of experiences, from the neon buzz of Las Vegas to Hawaii's tranquil coasts, illustrates a narrative of adaptation, ingenuity, and a profound connection with his roots. Vitamin B's insightful strategies for leveraging social media to weave into the local fabric and his unwavering dedication to his craft offer a refreshing perspective on the intersection of family, career, and community.

Social media's metamorphosis from a simple sharing tool to a potent marketing weapon prompts a deep conversation about authenticity in the digital age. We dissect the nuances of personal branding and the gravity of our digital footsteps, touching on the delicate art of aligning with brands that resonate with our values. Revealing the strategies behind 'Instagram infiltration,' we navigate the complexities of algorithms to build a more genuine and engaged following—a journey of recognizing one's unique superpowers amidst the avalanche of content online.

Rounding off our vibrant chat, we probe the symbiotic relationship between technology and our daily lives, contemplating the judicious integration of screen time for the younger generation. We also consider the undeniable sway of TikTok and the power of simple gestures like a direct message in unlocking doors to unforeseen collaborations. Despite a hasty end to our session due to technical hitches, we commit to continuing this enlightening exchange and promise to further unravel the threads of social media collaboration and networking across our platforms.

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Imagine stepping into the octagon, where every punch and grapple is a dance between passion and strategy. That's the world Russell Doane inhabits – a fierce Hawaiian MMA fighter who blends his laid-back island charm with the heart of a lion in the ring. Join us as Russell takes us on a journey into the heart of MMA, reflecting on the serendipitous moments that led him to embrace the sport, and the relentless drive that powers his return to competition . As we peel back the layers of this complex sport, Russell's story is a powerful testament to the warrior's spirit that pulses through the veins of a professional fighter.

Russell  opens up about his deep-rooted connection with his friend Louis, their parallel paths to the UFC, and the profound joys and trials of fatherhood.  As Russell shares his experiences with health challenges and his transformation into a coach, we're reminded of the delicate balance that life demands. These candid conversations shed light on the growth that comes from adversity and the beauty of sharing life's victories and setbacks, not only as fighters but as fathers and mentors.

Laughter becomes the best medicine as we swap tales of crafting laugh-out-loud social media content and relive heartwarming coaching anecdotes. From navigating the role of discipline in parenting to the unique camaraderie forged through combat sports, this episode is a celebration of community and the human experience. We delve into the emotional rollercoaster of cornering a friend in a fight and reflect on the importance of savoring the beauty in every battle we face, in and out of the ring. So, lace up your gloves and prepare to be touched and inspired by the stories of resilience that defines Russell Doane.  

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Gather 'round the fireplace and let the holiday spirit flow as I'm joined by my favorite guest, my delightful daughter Aria, for a Christmas podcast that's bursting with cheer. As Aria recounts her spike from novice to seasoned player, we're whisked away on a journey of athletic determination, highlighted by her shining moments at a Chicago tournament and the camaraderie of her school team. This episode isn't just about serves and volleys, though; it's a heartfelt father-daughter dialogue where we tackle listener questions, revealing the personal milestones and chuckles that have defined our year.

Aria's leap from the dance floor to the volleyball court has been nothing short of a pirouette into new beginnings, and we're peeling back the curtain on the transformation. We're chatting about everything from her evolving fashion sense to the lighthearted banter about a world without boyfriends – yet. The spotlight shines on Aria's favorite dishes, but it's the insightful discussion on the liberating role of the libero in volleyball that serves up an important reminder: in sports, as in life, height isn't the measure of one's potential.

As we wrap up this special segment, we're taking a whimsical detour through wishes of teleportation, musings on beloved school subjects, and memories of family vacations that have etched themselves into our hearts. The podcast may be coming to a close, but the laughter and lessons linger on. Join us in this celebration of the past year's journey, and as we raise our glasses to the future, Aria and I send you off with the warmest of holiday greetings and the promise of more stories and smiles in 2024.

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Have you ever wondered about the power of positivity on social media? Can it really contribute to a brand's growth? We invite you to find out as we chat with Eric Yamashita, the creator of the Everyday Better brand. Eric has mastered the art of creating authentic and relatable content and spreads it via his social media platforms. He’s not just sharing memes; he's influencing lives, including mine.

 We discuss the art of giving back and the importance of small business networking. Balancing business commitments while staying genuine can be a tough act, but Eric seems to have cracked the code. We also explore the value of in-person events, connecting with customers on a personal level, and building lasting relationships.

Last but not least, we discuss everything from training young individuals to providing nutritional advice. Plus, as an added bonus for our sports-loving listeners, we have a lively discussion about recent football games and standings. But it’s not all sports and fitness; we also tackle deeper topics such as faith, charity, and coping with grief. This episode of Above the Bridge is power-packed with conversations that matter, so don't miss it!

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Ever wondered how a podcast host stays consistent, navigates challenges, and enjoys the process while not solely focusing on monetary gain? Tune in as we unlock these answers with our special guest, Gaven Sugai, host of the Kampai Sugai podcast. We kickstart our exchange with a peek into Gaven's Japanese heritage and the inspiration for his podcast's unique name. The conversation takes an intriguing turn towards cultural cheers and their interpretations, a testament to the richness of our unique backgrounds.

As we venture further, the discussion illuminates the importance of consistency in the podcasting world. We share our triumphs and trials in maintaining consistency and the vital role patience plays in any creative journey. You'll get an insider's glimpse into our recording process, the hurdles we've had to jump, and how we've managed to stay the course. Our friendly banter touches on our podcast distribution platforms and why we prioritize enjoyment over monetary gain.

But it's not all concentrated on podcasting. We take a detour to explore our mutual interest in mixed martial arts, the evolution of traditional martial arts into MMA, and our thoughts on heavyweight champions like Jon Jones and Francis Ngannou. As ardent football fans, we reflect on the growth of Pete Carroll and Richard Sherman and the influence their actions have had on us. So, strap in for an engaging, enlightening, and enjoyable episode packed with insights, laughter, and a whole lot of podcast geekery.