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Can you imagine transforming from a farm girl on the Big Island to a beauty queen with a vision? Join us as we explore the remarkable journey of Leimakamae Freitas, a trailblazer in the pageant world and a true embodiment of resilience and empowerment. Listen to her heartfelt stories about balancing high school life with the pageant world, battling societal pressures, and achieving unprecedented titles like Miss Hawaii Island Teen USA and Miss Hawaii Island USA. Lei opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of competing on the national stage and the personal growth that comes with every challenge.

Lei's story is not just about crowns and sashes; it's about the power of mentorship and the birth of Regal Academy. We dive into how she turned a simple fundraiser into a thriving modeling and pageantry school that nurtures young talent across Hawaii's major islands. Discover the inclusive, supportive environment she has built, and how her academy collaborates with top designers and communities to create opportunities for aspiring beauty queens and confident individuals. Lei's vision extends beyond pageantry, aiming to foster self-confidence and ambition in every girl who steps through her academy's doors.

But the journey doesn't stop there. Hear about the unwavering support from her father during her most challenging times, the sisterhood that has uplifted her, and her future aspirations within the Miss Hawaii USA organization. Lei's passion for singing, cultural diversity, and community empowerment shines through every anecdote, offering inspiration and practical advice for anyone looking to pursue their dreams. This episode is a testament to the strength of perseverance, the importance of a solid support system, and the impact of setting ambitious goals. Tune in for an engaging conversation that promises to leave you motivated and ready to conquer your own challenges.

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When grief strikes, it can either paralyze us or propel us into action; for Chad Starr, it became a catalyst for a profound mission. Walking through the pain—quite literally—he embarked on an audacious trek around Hawaii's perimeter, transforming his profound loss into a platform for mental health advocacy after his daughter Sienna's tragic passing. As Chad's story unfurls, we grapple with the complexities of modern parenting, from navigating our children's digital worlds to confronting the omnipresent specter of bullying. His resilience illustrates the depths of a parent's love and the relentless pursuit of creating a safer space for our youth.

Our heartfelt conversation traverses the rugged terrain of endurance, both physical and emotional. Chad's fractured tibias become a metaphor for the brokenness one can feel in the aftermath of loss, yet they also symbolize the unimaginable strength it takes to continue forward. This episode is as much about mending the fractures within as it is about the external journey, examining how our own upbringing informs our parenting style and the crucial role of vulnerability in building connections. We're reminded that true strength often lies in sharing our weaknesses, and that by doing so, we pave the way for others to do the same.

Amidst the tears and laughter, Chad's tale is ultimately one of hope, underscored by a dedication to mental health advocacy and support. By candidly discussing the staggering impact of social media and the deceptive allure of so-called perfect lives, we shine a light on the importance of authenticity and the small victories that can make all the difference. As the episode draws to a close, we are left with a resonating message of love, the power of helping others, and a promise to honor Sienna's legacy with actions that spread the aloha spirit far and wide. Join us as we pay tribute to the profound impact of one father's love and the indomitable human spirit.

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Embrace the artistry of imperfection as Kenji Lee takes us through his creative odyssey in "100 Bad Videos." Together, we examine how the Japanese philosophy of accepting flaws can liberate artists from the shackles of traditional perfection. Kenji's personal tales resonate with the essence of authenticity, as he shares the importance of consistent output and the process of creation, rather than focusing solely on the end product. This episode isn't just about making content; it's about the courage to share one's imperfect work with the world, and the authenticity and perseverance that define a true creative path.

Ever considered the intimate power of podcasting? It's a medium that not only entertains but also heals, connects, and preserves our most treasured conversations for posterity. We delve into personal stories reflecting the therapeutic nature of this platform, how it supports us in life's ups and downs, and fosters deep connections. From the evolution of wedding videography to the technical nuances that bring stories to life, our discussion traverses the emotional and intellectual journey of a content creator. And for those who find podcasting daunting, we unpack the challenges and celebrate the growth that comes with learning and mastering the art of podcasting.

To cap off, we navigate the digital era's balancing act between creating and consuming content. We explore strategies for testing content on Instagram before launching into the YouTube universe, the authenticity behind the scenes, and the infectious 'aloha spirit' we infuse into our work. Kenji and I also discuss the significance of content creation blueprints, not as rigid templates, but as empowering guides that catalyze the creative process across communities. Join us in embracing a mindset of contribution over consumption, and discover how every individual's perception can uniquely shape the art of videography and beyond.

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Join us as the illustrious Augie T takes us on a journey from laughter-filled stages to the heart of community action. Whether he's rallying neighborhoods in Ewa and Waipahu or tickling our funny bones, Augie's dual passions for comedy and civic responsibility shine through. Our discussion paints a vivid picture of the transformative power of community engagement, the triumphs of local advocacy, and the importance of education in understanding the roles of various government levels in our lives.

In this episode, we lace up our boots for a deep dive into the world of community clean-ups and the ripple effect of pride on the places we call home. Augie's stories of grassroots movements and the mobilization of volunteers resonate with the values of care and responsibility instilled early on in my own life. We reveal the nuts and bolts of cultivating vibrant neighborhoods through continuous, small acts and highlight how these efforts can reflect the broader issue of government support and infrastructure maintenance.

As the curtain falls on our chat, Augie T brings us back to the laughter, sharing the wisdom gained from a 35-year tenure in the world of comedy. We explore the evolution of humor, the impact of cultural roots on comedic material, and the unique connection formed with audiences through the art of comedy. So, buckle up for a ride through the laughter, leadership, and the lasting impact of community service, with a side of pidgin language and a peek at a one-of-a-kind Japanese truck.

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Embrace the heartwarming complexities of being a 'girl dad' with myself, Thaddeus, and my special guest, Russell Kimura, as we share our personal experiences and celebrate the father-daughter bond. Prepare to be moved by tales of daddy daughter experiences, father-daughter proms, and the poignant growth milestones that punctuate this unique journey. Our candid dialogue unfolds the art of connection, as we tackle the delicate dance of guiding our daughters through the nuanced stages of life, from the whimsy of Disneyland adventures to the introspective depths of daddy-daughter journals.

Navigating the stereotypes of teenage angst, we venture into the misunderstood territory that fathers and their adolescent daughters often traverse, sharing strategies for maintaining open lines of communication. Our exchange reveals the transformative power behind a father's sincere apology and the courage to break free from generational cycles of reactive parenting. As we reflect on the bittersweet nature of watching our daughters blossom into independence, I recount an unforgettable heart-to-heart at the 'happiest place on earth' and the graceful balance between guiding and letting go.

As we gear up for the enchanting father-daughter prom, a celebration that has evolved from a virtual affair to an anticipated gala, feel the palpable excitement that this event brings. It's more than just a night of dancing—it's a symbol of the lasting impressions fathers can leave and the standard of respect daughters deserve. And as we touch on the foundational role of faith within the family, the upcoming prom stands as a testament to the profound and subtle influence it holds. Join us in this episode for a journey through the joys and revelations of fatherhood, all in the company of an uplifting community of fellow dads who cherish every step of the path with their daughters.

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Join us for an enlightening and empowering episode as we embark on a journey of political engagement in the vibrant state of Hawaii. We are thrilled to have Brah Kruz, a renowned content creator turned politically engaged, returning as our guest. Brah Kruz shares his inspiring transition and sheds light on the pressing local issues that he passionately advocates for. From grassroots activism to advocating for restrictions on home land purchases, Brah Kruz story showcases the power of community involvement and the need for Hawaiian voices in politics. We also explore the significance of voter engagement, the impact of local elections on community improvement, and the urgent need for more native Hawaiian representation. Tune in as we discuss the challenges, triumphs, and the collective responsibility to create a thriving future for our beloved Kaneohe.

In this episode, we delve into the world of political engagement in Hawaii through the lens of Brah Kruz's remarkable journey.  He takes us on a captivating ride, from his early days as a content creator to his current role as a political candidate.  We explore his experiences at the  Peace March, where he gained crucial insights into local Hawaiian issues, and his in involvement in advocating for restricting home land purchases in Hawaii's legislative chambers. Kruz's  story is a testament to the power of grassroots activism and the immense importance of representing Hawaiian voices in politics. We also discuss the transformative potential of voter engagement, emphasizing the need to vote based on policy and merit rather than party affiliation alone.

Join us for an eye-opening discussion on the significance of local elections and community involvement in shaping our beloved district of Hawaii's District 49. As a candidate for state representative, I share my personal experiences and insights into the local political landscape. We explore the challenges of overcoming partisan biases and the importance of voting for candidates based on their policies and merits. The conversation highlights the impact of past voting patterns, the presence of swing voters, and the opportunities for change within our district. We also dive into specific local issues such as infrastructure problems, homelessness, and substance abuse, underscoring the urgent need for community involvement and proactive measures to address these pressing concerns. Together, let's foster a future where our community thrives and our children flourish right here in Kaneohe.

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Discover what keeps a restaurant like Roy's in Ko Olina at the pinnacle of culinary innovation, as Taisei Lee, the general manager, unpacks the secrets behind their enduring success – secrets that could ignite your own ventures. We traverse the landscape of resilience post-COVID, revealing how Roy's has managed to create an exceptional fine dining experience.  As Taisei and I swap tales of fatherhood, we offer a heartfelt reflection on how our roles as parents intertwine with and enrich our professional endeavors.

Take a behind-the-scenes look at the art of restaurant management and the thrill of event planning, where autonomy and trust set the stage for unique dining experiences. Listen to the colorful stories from the vibrant Easter brunch at Eating House, reggae nights, and the brush with celebrities at Ko'olina, showcasing a community-centric approach to hospitality. As Taisei shares his path to becoming a certified sommelier, we toast to the complexities and camaraderie found in a shared glass of wine.

The episode concludes with a sense of gratitude, a celebration of life's passions, and an appreciation for the connections we foster. Join us on this journey of taste, tenacity, and the pursuit of passion, all tied together with a warm 'aloha' and the promise of inspiration for your own adventurous endeavors.

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This week we catch up with former guest  pro boxer Jaybrio "The Hitman" Pe Benito, who joins us fresh from his intensive training and ready to share his journey. From the challenges of a two-year hiatus and embracing fatherhood, to the grind of networking across the States, Jabrio's story is a testament to resilience. He opens up about the personal sacrifices required to maintain his competitive edge and how he balances the demands of the sport with being a family man.

Imagine being in the ring sparing with boxing phenoms like Ryan Garcia and Devin Haney; Jaybrio doesn't have to imagine – he's lived it. His firsthand account of these electrifying sparring sessions gives us a unique peek into the world of elite boxing. We celebrate the Hawaiian boxing scene's growth and the hopeful legacy Jaybrio aspires to leave as a fighter, mentor and coach. It's not just about landing punches; it's about setting a positive example and nurturing the next wave of talent.

Strap on your gloves and step into a boxer's life where business acumen is as crucial as a strong jab. Jaybrio discusses the sheer thrill of the fight and the calculated risks every boxer weighs, with an entrepreneur's perspective on the sport. From preparations for upcoming bouts to the strategy behind every punch, his anticipation for future victories is contagious. And as we acknowledge the supportive local businesses and sponsors who bolster our athletes, we're reminded that while the fight may be solo, the journey to the ring is a community effort. Join us for an episode that goes beyond the ropes, exploring the heart and hustle of a pro boxer.

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Embark on a journey with Gerritt Vincent, our Hawaiian Keto Dad, who unfolds his family's transformation through a ketogenic lens, all the while preserving the flavors of heritage. Our heart-to-heart uncovers the delicate dance of instilling healthy habits in his children without stripping away the simple pleasures of their palates. As Gerritt  shares the tale of his mother's triumph over diabetes and his own weight loss odyssey, it becomes apparent that the road to wellness is not just paved with good intentions but also a community of kindred spirits who hold each other accountable through the peaks and valleys of dietary discipline.

Navigating the kitchen with Gerritt, we stir into the conversation a fusion of cherished family recipes with the innovative tweaks necessary to align with a keto-friendly approach. The scent of sardines with onions, the tang of finadene sauce, and the secret ingredients cloaked in family lore bring to life the rich tapestry of local hawaii  cuisine that Gerritt masterfully weaves into his lifestyle. This episode is not only a testament to the love for one's roots but also an ode to the creativity that goes into adapting tradition to fit modern health paradigms.

As we round off our session, we step into the kaleidoscope of social media, where Gerritt reveals the double-edged sword of content creation—from the comedic relief found in comment sections to the unexpected boost from online trolls. Through laughter and reflection, we delve into the nuances of virtual interactions, the joy of dance as a universal language.  Join us for an episode that promises not just a feast for the ears but a nourishing of the soul, as we celebrate life's flavors, both on the plate and beyond.

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My guest, Jose Dynamite, and I, your host Thaddeus, whisk you away on a comedic journey through Hawaii's vibrant comedy scene. From the legendary haunts of yesteryear to the fresh punchlines of today's talent, we traverse the islands' unique brand of humor that's as diverse as our landscape. Nostalgia intertwines with the present as we share tales of local legends and the resurgence of live performances post-pandemic—a testament to the spirit of Aloha that fuels our laughter.

Let the ocean breeze carry the sounds of our conversation featuring the eclectic mix of comedians who paint our world funny, from Dusty Slay's "Working Man" roots to the silent magic of Penn & Teller. You'll find that comedy in Hawaii is a melting pot of styles, with a dash of pidgin for good measure. We highlight the role of social media in amplifying voices from the islands to the world stage, proving that a viral joke can cross oceans. And amidst the laughter, there's a soft purr—yes, we're talking about our feline friends who provide an unexpected source of joy and inspire their own social media fame.

As the sun sets on our comedic gathering, we reflect on the nerves that come with taking the mic and the elation of landing a punchline that resonates. From the Laugh Madness comedy tournament to the organic growth of local talent, the Hawaiian comedy scene is a story of passion, unity, and relentless pursuit of happiness. We invite you to join our laughter-soaked narrative, punctuated with pet adventures and the promise of more giggles to come. So, sit back, relax, and let the spirit of island comedy sweep you into our world where every joke is a wave of connection. ATBpod.com