From creating a carbon wax bottle that breaks down in the ocean to developing durable glass and aluminum made from 100 percent post recycle bottles. We hear from CEO Ryan Emmons of Waiākea on the Big Island of Hawaii, pioneers of Hawaiian volcanic water, and his vision for an eco-friendly future.

After multiple years of research and time put into developing the brand, Ryan shares with Bryan Murphy from Hawaii’s Best why he feels like this was the right step for Waiākea and society.

In this episode, we also get to hear all about upcycling. Ryan explains how this process allows us all to have a smaller carbon footprint by giving materials a second life. To maximize their environmental effort, Waiākea has set up collection centers to gather ocean-bound plastic, preventing the materials from going into the waters of Hawaii. 

Ryan dives into leadership and how this company has moved from shareholders to stakeholders, from a singular profit model to a triple bottom line model. Explaining how these stakeholders have created a culture that is upcycled into every product at Waiākea

Over the years, Ryan’s supportive family and many mentors at different companies have shaped him into the leader he is today. Ryan explains how the influencers in his life have been there in the highs and lows. Ohana being first and staying true to his values is what has kept him going for the past years leading Waiākea. 

Hit play to listen in as Ryan gives his advice on what you should know when visiting Hawaii and what he loves best about the islands. We also get to hear what exciting adventures are coming this next year for Ryan, his family, and Waiākea. 

In This Episode

• About Waiakea [0:50]
• The vision behind Waiakea [3:00]
• What is upcycling? [4:30]
• Focused and driven [8:40]
• Nonprofits Waiākea gives back to [12:22]
• How to stay true to your values [16:30]
• Coming to Hawaii for the first time from Ryan [20:08]
• What Ryan loves best about Hawaii. [22:13]
• The future [23:48]

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• Podcast show notes available here - livehawaiisbest.com/episode023
• Shaka Guide Travel Guide App - livehawaiisbest.com/shaka
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This podcast is for travelers looking to plan a trip to Hawaii. Discover travel tips, itineraries, and traveling tips & hacks with guides to help you explore Hawaii. Whether you’re planning a vacation to the Hawaiian islands, dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, or visiting Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Oahu, or Big Island we’ll help you travel with aloha.

Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission)

Ukulele and Chill, Coby G (w/ permission)