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A creative soul finds her voice through adversity. That's the story of Ashley Abbott, model, singer, and mother who joins us for an intimate conversation about finding your path despite the noise of critics.

Having known each other since their dancing days, Chris and Ashley dive into her recent engagement (breaking news!) and upcoming Cancun vacation before exploring her dual creative journey through modeling and music. What started as photoshoots has evolved into a pattern of creative reinvention, with Ashley describing how her modeling career has experienced waves depending on location and life circumstances.

"Being in the studio is therapeutic for me," Ashley shares, explaining how songwriting became her sanctuary about a year and a half ago. She's proud of writing all her own lyrics, finding the creative process healing during periods of grief and personal challenge. This conversation reveals how artistic expression serves as more than a career—it's a lifeline for emotional wellbeing.

Perhaps most valuable is Ashley's wisdom on handling negativity. As someone frequently in the public eye, she's developed a unique perspective: "Haters are fans who don't know how to express their love in a positive way." She explains how critics often project their own insecurities, particularly when they see someone brave enough to pursue what they themselves fear attempting.

Between candid zodiac discussions (fellow Cancers unite!) and humorous hypotheticals about cartoon character attractions, the conversation offers a beautiful blend of professional insight and personal vulnerability. Ashley balances motherhood to a teenager and a four-year-old while pursuing her passions, demonstrating how creative lives rarely follow linear paths.

• Recently became engaged and is planning a Cancun vacation with her fiancé
• Transitioned into modeling first, experiencing waves of success depending on location and life circumstances
• Started pursuing singing seriously about a year and a half ago, focusing on writing her own songs
• Finds studio time and creative expression therapeutic for mental health
• Developed strategies for handling negative comments on social media
• Believes haters are actually fans who don't know how to express their love positively
• Balances creative pursuits with motherhood to a 14-year-old and 4-year-old
• Identifies strongly with Cancer zodiac traits of being nurturing, protective, and emotional
• Encourages new creatives to persist despite negativity from others

You can find Ashley on Instagram @aaaabbott and on YouTube as Ashley Abbott. Her music is available on Spotify - look for "Intentions," "Ethereal Love," "Zodiac," and "Lust."

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Mekel Kasanova isn't just a voice actor, streamer, podcaster, and content creator – he's a testament to forging your own path when you don't fit the mold. Growing up as the shortest among thirteen siblings in a family of musical prodigies, Mekel had to find his own lane, leading him on an unexpected journey from Western Samoa to voicing villains in major DC and Marvel productions.

The conversation takes a fascinating turn when Mekel shares how he discovered unknown siblings in the most unexpected ways – like learning his college best friend was actually his half-sister after a year of friendship when his father showed up at her birthday. These candid family stories reveal the complex tapestry that shapes Mekel's authentic approach to content creation.

When discussing the local creator scene in Hawaii, Mekel doesn't hold back about the challenges of navigating community politics. After witnessing behind-the-scenes negativity and superficial metrics-obsession, he decided to leave a prominent creator collective, only to later receive notice he'd been "kicked out" – a paradox that highlights the sometimes toxic nature of creative communities.

For anyone struggling with content creation advice, Mekel offers a refreshing perspective by challenging the concept of "niching down." Drawing from his success across multiple platforms, he explains why authentic versatility trumps forced specialization. His practical insights about utilizing AI tools like Opus Clip to transform podcasts into platform-specific content and understanding YouTube's algorithm provide valuable strategies without the typical guru-speak.

Whether reminiscing about classic fighting games, revealing the physical toll of voice acting, or explaining how he landed roles in major franchises, Mekel's journey demonstrates that the most compelling creators aren't those following a formula – they're the ones brave enough to embrace their unique perspective while strategically sharing it with the world. Follow Mekel Casanova across all social platforms to continue the conversation and discover his four distinct podcast shows.

• Originally from Western Samoa, Mekel grew up as the shortest in a musically gifted family where he had to find his own path
• Discovered unknown siblings in surprising circumstances, including meeting his sister Chanel after being best friends in college for a year
• Transitioned to voice acting through connections with established actors, landing roles in DC's Justice League Dark and upcoming Marvel projects
• Found his niche voicing villains, explaining the physical toll voice acting can take without proper preparation
• Left a local creator collective after experiencing toxicity and inauthentic behavior, later receiving notice he was "kicked out" after already leaving
• Challenges the concept of "niching down," advocating for creative versatility instead of limiting oneself to one content type
• Reveals tools like Opus Clip that use AI to transform podcast episodes into dozens of platform-specific clips
• Explains YouTube's current algorithm strategy, noting how posting shorts consistently can dramatically increase visibility
• Discusses his passion for classic fighting games like Virtual Fighter, Street Fighter, and Fatal Fury

Follow Mekel Kasanova across all social platforms to keep up with his four podcasts including Casting Over Podcasts and Decked Up.

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What happens when musical talent meets motherhood and cultural heritage? Bay Area vocalist Acari joins us for a captivating conversation that weaves between her professional singing career, parenting journey, and creative aspirations.

From her days playing basketball as a self-described tomboy to commanding the stage at Mastro's Steakhouse, Acari shares the surprising path that led her to find her voice—literally and figuratively. After being discovered through Instagram, she now balances performing at an upscale venue with raising her two-year-old son, while simultaneously working on new music including an EP she describes as "genre fluid." Previously fronting the alternative rock band April Chase that once graced the Warped Tour stage, she reflects on how the Bay Area's economic realities shaped her musical journey.

The conversation takes a fascinating turn as Acari, born in Quezon City, shares spine-tingling stories of Filipino folklore and paranormal encounters that defy explanation—from the infamous "white lady" ghost to tree spirits that demand respect and tiny "duendes" with supernatural powers to cause illness. These cultural beliefs remain deeply intertwined with her worldview despite her contemporary life as a working musician.

We also dive into the evolution of confidence, as Acari reveals how she transformed from a shy performer into someone comfortable in her own skin. She shares candid thoughts on relationships, dating app disasters, and how persistence from her current partner ultimately won her heart despite not actively seeking romance.

Follow Acari on all social platforms @acarimusic to catch her upcoming releases, including a special track featuring lyrics in Tagalog. Her story is a testament to balancing artistic dreams with real-world responsibilities while staying connected to cultural roots.

• Born in Quezon City, Philippines, and now living in San Jose, California
• Currently recording new music including an EP with various genre influences
• Discovered for her Mastro's Steakhouse singing gig through Instagram
• Former member of alternative rock band April Chase that performed at Warped Tour
• Considering homeschooling options for her son due to concerns about the education system
• Recently collaborated with Ray Resurrection and preparing to release a song with Tagalog lyrics
• Shared fascinating Filipino folklore and paranormal experiences from growing up
• Once shy despite being a performer, now embraces confidence and caring less about others' perceptions
• Finding balance between motherhood, music career, and relationship

Find Acari on all social media platforms @acarimusic and look out for her upcoming releases including a new song featuring Tagalog lyrics.

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Ever wondered what goes on in the mind of a turntable virtuoso? DJ Q-Bert, one of the most influential scratch DJs in history, pulls back the curtain on his extraordinary journey and creative process in this revealing conversation.

The legendary turntablist breaks down how mathematics transformed his understanding of scratching, explaining that what seemed like complex patterns were actually simple numerical divisions: "It's just fucking numbers." This mathematical approach, combined with his focus on making scratches that rhyme poetically, elevated his art beyond mere technical prowess. Q-Bert emphasizes that style consistently trumps technicality—a philosophy that applies across all elements of hip-hop culture.

What truly sets this episode apart is Q-Bert's spiritual perspective on creativity. He shares profound insights about manifestation, describing how his album concepts evolved beyond his initial vision once he committed to them. "If you have a dream of something amazing, it always becomes more amazing than you expected," he explains, recounting how synchronicities appeared when he remained faithful to his vision. His morning meditation practice, capturing creative ideas in the liminal space between sleep and wakefulness, offers a practical technique anyone can adopt.

The conversation weaves through fascinating origin stories—from how his relationship began with a crystal healing gesture to how the iconic Scratchy Seal character emerged from a puppet stand in Japan. Q-Bert also reveals how the QFO portable turntable was inspired by Hawaiian beach sessions and his desire to scratch alongside ukulele players.

Whether you're a dedicated turntablist, a casual hip-hop fan, or simply someone seeking creative inspiration, this episode delivers invaluable wisdom about persistence, artistic evolution, and finding your unique path. Listen now and discover why Q-Bert remains not just a technical pioneer but a philosophical guide to creative fulfillment.

Ready to level up your scratching? Follow DJ Q-Bert on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube for his daily technique tutorials in "A Year in Scratching" and visit djqbert.com to explore his latest innovations, including the new 8-inch "Super Seal" records.

• Hip-hop is moving in multiple directions simultaneously rather than following a single path
• Q-Bert discovered scratching is fundamentally mathematical, with patterns based on numerical divisions
• Style and flow in scratching matters more than technical complexity, similar to an MC's rhyming ability
• Meditation and the state between sleep and wakefulness provide powerful connections to creativity
• Manifesting creative dreams requires faith, patience, and consistent effort
• Success doesn't happen overnight—it requires adding "one brick to the castle" consistently
• The QFO portable turntable was invented specifically for scratching at Hawaiian beaches
• New 8-inch "Super Seal" and "Scratchy Seal" records are designed for improved scratching technique
• The Invisible Scratch Pickles album is nearly complete at 90%

Check out DJ Q-Bert's daily scratching techniques on TikTok @djqbert1, Instagram @djqbert, or YouTube.com/thRumble, and learn more at djqbert.com.

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When TikTok star Rancelyn Lucero steps into the studio, what unfolds is far more than just another interview. Her natural charisma and refreshing honesty transform a simple conversation into a profound exploration of authenticity, relationships, and personal growth.

The episode takes an unexpected turn when Rancelyn makes a significant personal revelation - sharing for the first time publicly that she's seeing someone, and that someone is a woman. This vulnerable moment highlights the podcast's unique ability to create a safe space where guests feel comfortable sharing their truest selves.

Rancelyn's journey from Big Island to Oahu in search of better opportunities offers listeners insight into the realities of pursuing dreams in Hawaii. Now working as a server and floor lead at Big City Diner in Kailua, she shares hilarious and sometimes cringe-worthy stories about customer interactions and unwanted advances. Her experiences resonate with anyone who's worked in customer service, especially women who face objectification while simply trying to do their jobs.

What makes this episode particularly compelling is Rancelyn's nuanced take on female relationships and jealousy. She speaks candidly about facing judgment from women who know her through social media but not personally - a phenomenon many influencers experience but rarely discuss so openly. Her perspective on maintaining friendships with exes challenges conventional wisdom, offering a mature framework for post-relationship dynamics that prioritizes genuine care over lingering attachment.

Between discussions about dating pet peeves (don't call her "sexy" or "hot" - "pretty" is the compliment that wins her heart) and her upcoming participation in the Miss Bikini Hawaii pageant representing Hilo, Ranslyn proves she's much more than her social media presence suggests. Her authenticity shines through every answer, making this conversation feel less like an interview and more like eavesdropping on friends catching up.

Whether you're navigating the complexities of modern dating, curious about life behind a popular social media account, or simply enjoy genuine conversations about life's ups and downs, this episode delivers valuable insights wrapped in laughter and heartfelt moments. Listen now to discover why Rancelyn's perspective on relationships and self-discovery might be exactly what you need to hear.

• Moving from the Big Island to Oahu for better job opportunities and finding success as a server and floor lead
• Dealing with uncomfortable pickup lines and unwanted attention in the service industry
• Experiencing jealousy from women who only know her through social media
• Coming out about her current relationship with a woman for the first time
• The importance of setting boundaries and maintaining respectful friendships with exes
• Why being called "pretty" is more meaningful than "hot" or "sexy"
• The different approaches men and women take when supporting friends after breakups
• Preparing to represent Miss Hilo in the upcoming Miss Bikini Hawaii pageant

Find Rancelyn on Instagram: @rancelynlucero and TikTok: @ufwraraw. Support her in the Miss Bikini Hawaii pageant happening April 17th at the Ala Moana Hotel!

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What happens when the right person comes along after you've given up on dating apps? Anu returns to the Relationship Method podcast with a refreshing love story that defies modern dating norms. From meeting through mutual friends to consciously taking things slow, she shares how her current relationship differs from past dating experiences.

The conversation takes us through Anu's journey of finding someone who respects her boundaries and understands the delicate balance of introducing children into a new relationship. Unlike many modern connections built on physical attraction first, Anu explains why choosing celibacy until establishing a deeper connection has actually strengthened their bond. Her partner's respect for this decision stands out as one of many green flags she's noticed—a stark contrast to her previous dating experiences with a Navy serviceman and others who weren't ultimately compatible.

Between heartfelt relationship insights, Anu shares the hilarious story of getting banned from a local nightclub after defending a friend that escalated into a "squabble" during an early outing with her now-boyfriend. Rather than being deterred by witnessing this chaotic side of her, he stuck around—further confirming she'd found someone worth investing in. The episode closes with powerful advice about shooting your shot, being authentic, and communicating clearly about relationship boundaries: "You can't get mad at somebody for acting a certain way if you don't set those boundaries with them."

Ready to rethink your approach to relationships? Listen now and discover why sometimes the best connections happen when you stop playing games and start being genuine. Follow Anu on Instagram and TikTok to continue following her refreshingly honest relationship journey.

• Taking relationships slow can lead to deeper connections
• Meeting someone organically through friends versus dating apps
• Introducing children to a new partner requires careful consideration
• Setting clear boundaries early in relationships avoids misunderstandings
• Finding someone who respects your decision to be celibate initially is a green flag
• The story behind getting "86'd" from a nightclub after defending a friend
• Why being authentic matters more than playing games
• Dating multiple people is fine if everyone understands the situation
• Communication is key to avoiding misunderstandings in relationships
• When to "shoot your shot" and how to handle rejection

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Hawaiian-born R&B artist Kali talks about her musical journey from military kid to creating the "Fuck Girl Season" concept for her work as she navigates the music industry on her own terms. She shares deeply personal insights about expressing emotions through music and finding creative outlets when growing up in an Asian Pacific Islander household where vulnerability wasn't always encouraged.

• Growing up in Hawaii until age 8 before moving to Texas when her mother joined the military
• Parents' diverse musical tastes sparked her love of music from an early age
• Writing began as an emotional outlet in an environment where expressing feelings was difficult 
• Developed a strategic "seasons" approach to her music after working in PR and media journalism
• Current "Fuck Girl Season" represents self-awareness, chasing highs, and avoiding consequences
• Recommends channeling breakup emotions into creative outlets and leaning on close friends
• Views vulnerability in men as attractive but acknowledges some things should be handled privately
• Passionate about makeup, dancing, and fashion alongside her music career
• Believes passions are "planted" within us for a reason and should be explored

If you really have a passion or desire in your heart, there's a reason why that was planted in you. Be curious, follow it and see where it takes you, because it could lead to your purpose in life of impacting more people than you think.

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Chris and Lucy explore the complexities of modern relationships and the value of self-improvement before diving into dating. They share personal experiences about finding authentic connections in a digital world where genuine interactions have become increasingly rare.

• Lucy discusses starting her podcast and the power of manifesting goals
• The importance of enjoying in-person conversations instead of being constantly attached to phones
• How people reveal their true character during moments of conflict or stress
• Finding value in intellectual connection beyond physical attraction
• The evolution of relationship priorities as we mature and grow
• Accountability in relationships and calling out friends who don't act on their goals
• Views on dating people with children and different parenting approaches
• What separates their podcasts from others in the Hawaiian podcast landscape
• Finding comfort in being single while focusing on personal growth

Follow Lucy on Instagram @lucyinthegymwithweights and check out Lucy's Paradise Podcast.

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On this episode, I popped my online podcasting cherry (pause) with @christianhasasthma 

We talked about, cultural connections and upbringing, high school experiences and personal growth, navigating relationships, fashion trends and identity, cultural foods and community, the allure of the unattainable, the psychology of desire, confidence in rejection, psychology of desire, attraction and perception and much more!

Special shout to my boy, Christian, for being my very first online guest! Shout out to yay!

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My girl, Jhun, rolled through the set as surprise popup and we got down to business.

We talked about her secretly loving church, cell phone courtesies, starting to think outside of the box through conversation with other people, living with a single mother, does type matter when everything in the box is checked, women love to see men in their soft era, the right way to ask someone if they're gay or lesbian, handling childhood with two women as parents, her first lesbian interaction and much more!

Unspoken Truths: Love, Labels, & Life Lessons