In this inaugural episode of the Papamū Podcast, host Kimo Chun sits down with Uncle John Kaohelaulii, author of The Black Book of Kōnane, and Keiki Kaopua, cultural specialist with Kamehameha Schools, to explore the foundational question: What is Kōnane?

Together, they discuss the rules of the game, ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi vocabulary used in gameplay, key strategies, and historical moʻolelo that anchor Kōnane in Hawaiian culture. This episode also highlights online resources for learners and the collective hopes for revitalizing Kōnane across schools, families, and communities.

Host:

• Kimo Chun – Host, Papamū Podcast Strategy Consultant

Guests:

• Uncle John Kaohelaulii – Author, The Black Book of Kōnane; Kōnane Expert

• Keiki Kaopua – Cultural Specialist, Kamehameha Schools

Credits

Podcast Planning Team: Leimaile Barret, Kimo Chun, John Kaohelaulii, Keiki Kaopua, Kaipo Kī`aha, Tina Kinimaka, Tevairangi Lopez, Leinani Makekau-Whitaker

Podcast Production: Leimaile Barret, James Hall, Kaipo Kī`aha

Logo Development: Kaipo Kī`aha

Mahalo to our cultural practitioners who keep Kōnane connected to moʻolelo, values, and ʻŌiwi leadership pathways.

Additional Episode Information:

• Rules of Kōnane

• Glossary of ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi Kōnane Terminology

• Strategies & gameplay mindset

• Historical references and moʻolelo (e.g., Lonoikamakahiki)

• Online resources (Papa Mū, rules, start-a-club templates)

• Hopes for the future of Kōnane as a cultural and educational practice