In this episode, we sit down with Jay King, an action-oriented advocate who has dedicated his life to supporting veterans and other vulnerable communities in need. With his extensive experience in social services, Jay works with a spirit of "yes," helping individuals find housing, employment, and critical resources to rebuild their lives. His deep empathy and commitment shine through as he connects with those he serves, offering not just help, but heart and humanity in every interaction. Based in Honolulu, Hawaii, Jay’s work has a profound impact on both the local community and the lives of those he touches. Tune in to hear how he leads with care, gusto, and unwavering dedication to making a difference for each person he supports.

Episode Highlights

0:24 Introduction to Jay

1:27 Inspiration from the Peaceful Warrior book

3:15 Family foundations in Hawaii

4:29 Moved to Hawaii in the early 2000s

5:23 "Give what you want to receive"

7:06 Working with everyday heroes

9:44 Veterans' services

10:42 The paradigm shift that encouraged him to enter the Marines

13:45 There are immense humanitarian needs here at home and social workers are real heroes

15:48 Aloha (and research) in action: Getting Michael a motorized wheelchair

20:13 Case workers need the autonomy to be impactful

20:58 Benefits of working for a congressional office - the power of YES

25:00 The value of individuals is not always quantified in systems

25:36 Choice

26:15 Civic entitlement vs. authentic need

27:18 Homeless services - the greatest work is what we don't see

27:55 What does a thriving Hawaii look like? Ending choicelessness, strong leadership, livable wages and affordable housing, allocates appropriate resources

34:17 Workforce development and addressing employment and housing barriers

36:18 Sustainable housing initiative for rapid rehousing

38:08 The rising tide doesn't life all boats

39:35 Miracle workers

42:21 Finding equilibrium between compassion, firmness and service

44:26 Workforce development: We need aloha to go from internet to interview 

Welcome to the Above the Sides podcast! Join us on our journey to uncover what it means to think, act, and live aloha. The inspiration for this podcast is the late Pono Shim, former President and CEO of the Oʻahu Economic Development Board. His stories capture the essence of what it means to live aloha. He made it known that aloha is a lifestyle. It is not a solution to problems, a marketing brand or to be used as an advantage over anyone else. Aloha is to be honored and practiced.

The name of this podcast is in reverence of Hawaiʻi's Queen Liliʻuokalani, who wrote: "To gain the kingdom of heaven is to hear what is not said, to see what cannot be seen, and to know the unknowable – that is Aloha. All things in this world are two; in heaven there is but One.” Through these episodes, we seek to find that singular perspective, the one that is "above the sides" as we strive for universal peace.

We welcome you to pause with us as we share the stories and voices of Hawai’i business leaders, educators and community members who have chosen to be lifelong students of aloha. Mahalo nui loa for listening.