Above the bridge

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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!

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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From someone who once "couldn't even cook rice" to an innovative culinary force transforming Hawaiian ingredients, Chef Mari's story is a delicious journey of passion and perseverance. She reveals how exposure to diverse food cultures in Los Angeles sparked her culinary awakening before returning to Hawaii to study at KCC Culinary. What makes her approach unique is the scientific foundation beneath her creativity – with a master's degree in nutrition and dietetics, she brings deep understanding of food's impact on our bodies to every dish she creates.

Breadfruit (ulu) emerges as the star in Chef Mari's culinary repertoire. "Ulu is literally my most favorite ingredient to work with," she explains, detailing how this versatile fruit functions beautifully in both sweet and savory applications. Her innovations are practical magic – transforming ulu into Alfredo sauce and gravy without traditional thickeners, creating poi churros that had her culinary students raving, and developing egg substitutes from traditional Hawaiian ingredients during the egg shortage. These creations showcase her gift for honoring cultural traditions while pushing culinary boundaries.

The conversation explores Chef Mari's unexpected path to teaching culinary arts at Kaiser High School, where she commanded a classroom of 80+ students despite having no formal teaching certification. This experience crystallized her definition of what makes a chef: "a leader who inspires people in the kitchen." Now working as a chef consultant with the Culinary Institute of America while building her social media presence, her future vision centers on creating a non-profit cooking school accessible to everyone in her community. Throughout it all, she maintains that cooking is fundamentally about connection – whether through television appearances, Instagram videos shot entirely on her phone, or the dream of a community cooking space that celebrates local farmers and ingredients. Follow her continuing culinary adventures @BiteLogic on Instagram and TikTok, where science and flavor merge into something truly special.

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Fresh off his wedding celebration, Thaddeus Park opens up his life to listeners in this intimate Q&A episode, tackling questions submitted through Instagram that range from deeply personal to light-hearted and everything in between.

Thad shares the joy of his recent nuptials, describing the red and gold-themed event (a nod to his beloved 49ers) as "one of the best days of my life." With candor and humor, he explains that while marriage hasn't drastically changed his relationship with Sasha—they've been committed to each other for years—there's something special about calling her his wife and hearing others address her as Mrs. Park.

The episode takes a heartfelt turn when Thad discusses his brotherhood with best man DJ Happa Boy. "We show up," he explains simply, describing their unshakeable loyalty through life's victories and challenges. This theme of authentic connection carries throughout as Thad reveals what brings him genuine happiness: watching his daughter's volleyball games and witnessing her passion on the court.

Listeners get an unprecedented look at the man behind the microphone as Thad explains the meaningful stories behind his tattoos—from his daughter's name designed as an ambigram to the lotus flower colored in his parents' favorite hues, symbolizing how they helped him flourish despite life's challenges. He even shares the significance of the Metallica lyrics inked on his collar: "So close, no matter how far," representing his eternal connection to his daughter.

Whether you're a longtime fan or first-time listener, this episode offers a window into Thaddeus Park's world—his values, inspirations, and the relationships that matter most. Follow Above the Bridge Podcast on Instagram, YouTube, or visit atbpod.com to join the conversation and suggest future topics or guests.

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Journey through two decades of island reggae with Walt G of Kawao as he shares the remarkable path from baseball fields to Hawaiian music stardom. What began as neighbors jamming on ukuleles evolved into one of Hawaii's most beloved musical groups, with hits like "Girl, Let Me Know" becoming local classics.

Walt offers rare insight into the band's creative process, revealing how China's melodic humming sparks the songwriting that has defined their signature sound. From recording with legendary producer Wendo Chin to their current collaboration with rising star Pena bu, Walt chronicles how their music has evolved while staying true to their roots. Music fans will appreciate his thoughtful perspective on the full-circle nature of island reggae, as he describes how today's artists are blending traditional sounds with contemporary styles.

Beyond music, Walt shares his parallel life as a Dean of Students, former baseball player,  coach, and devoted family man. His candid discussion about maintaining faith and values in the entertainment industry provides a refreshing look at navigating temptations while staying grounded. When describing the shifting landscape for today's youth, Walt's passionate insights on respect, problem-solving, and the double-edged sword of technology reveal his deep commitment to nurturing the next generation.

The conversation culminates with Walt's golden advice for aspiring musicians: "Do it because you love it, not because you want status." This philosophy has guided his 20-year career and explains why Kawao continues to connect with audiences across generations. Whether you're a longtime fan of Hawaii's music scene or curious about the authentic voices behind island reggae, this episode offers a heartfelt glimpse into the life of an artist who has balanced creative passion with core values.

Discover Kawao latest album on all streaming platforms and follow them @Kawaomusic on social media to keep up with new releases and performances.

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Meet Maci Ono, a fitness influencer who transformed her body and discovered that the physical journey was only half the story. In this raw conversation, Maci reveals how she went from 250 pounds to losing 100 pounds—and the surprising darkness she found at her "after" photo.

"I felt like a prisoner to my health when I was at my biggest, and then it's funny because I felt even more like a prisoner when I was at my smallest," Macy shares, pulling back the curtain on the mental health challenges that weight loss influencers rarely discuss. From obsessive calorie tracking that kept her from social gatherings for a year to struggles with loose skin, Maci's journey illuminates the complex relationship between physical transformation and mental wellbeing.

What makes Maci's story powerful is her approach to sustainable change. Unlike previous attempts driven by self-hatred, this time she built her transformation on self-love: "I love myself, so I'm going to work out. I love myself, so I feed myself good foods." She emphasizes the 80/20 rule—eating whole foods most of the time while still enjoying life's pleasures—and calls out the "propaganda bullshit" of restrictive diets that set people up for failure.

Beyond fitness advice, this episode offers a thought-provoking look at how society treats people differently based on their appearance. Maci describes the resentment she initially felt when noticing how differently people interacted with her after weight loss, and how this experience now fuels her commitment to treating everyone with kindness regardless of shape or size.

Whether you're on your own fitness journey or simply interested in the psychology behind physical transformation, Maci's perspective will change how you think about before-and-after photos forever. Subscribe to the Above the Bridge Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts and follow @Maci.Onolicious on Instagram to continue following Maci's inspiring journey.

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What happens when pandemic isolation meets a lifetime passion for cooking and a community built on genuine aloha? For Cory Vidinha, it sparked the birth of Whiskey Smoke 808, a barbecue restaurant that's become much more than a place to eat—it's a testament to family, faith, and the enduring spirit of old Hawaii.

Growing up in a family where men were exceptional cooks and processing their own meat was tradition, Vidinha always dreamed of owning a butcher shop. But life took him in countless directions—commercial diving, carpentry, truck driving—as he raised four sons with his wife, whom he met when they were just teenagers. When COVID shut down Hawaii, the enforced idleness sparked depression in a man who'd never known anything but hard work.

The turning point came when Cory and his sons built a massive stainless-steel smoker. What began as a way to keep busy evolved into making food for struggling friends, which then blossomed into a booming backyard business with cars lining his street. "I didn't even understand social media," Vidinha laughs, recalling how friends helped him create an Instagram account that would launch his business.

Whiskey Smoke's journey from backyard to brick-and-mortar showcases the best of Hawaii's community spirit. When Cory couldn't afford the deposit on his current location (the former Fresh Catch building), the local family who owned it gave him three months rent-free to renovate and start earning. At the grand opening, strangers helped carry in tables and joined the family's prayer circle—a chicken-skin moment that epitomizes why this restaurant feels different.

Beyond exceptional barbecue, Vidinha brings another passion to the table—his 15-year career as bassist for hardcore band 13th Legion, which has toured Japan and beyond. This artistic outlet complements his approach to food: "What you're tasting is our love—for the food, for people."

Come experience barbecue created with genuine aloha, where communal tables invite strangers to become friends and every bite reminds us that even in our darkest moments, community can help us create something beautiful.