In this special episode of What’s Good Kauaii?, we sit down with Captain Brett Stevenson, Commanding Officer of the Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF), to explore how one of the world's most advanced military test ranges is also a deeply rooted part of the Kauai community.

From its impact on the local economy to its leadership in environmental stewardship, CAPT Stevenson shares how PMRF balances cutting-edge defense operations with a strong commitment to aloha ʻāina — love for the land. We talk community partnerships, cultural preservation, and the future of the facility, all while getting a glimpse into the Captain’s own leadership journey as he prepares for retirement this June.

Whether you’re curious about PMRF’s role on the island or just want to hear how national defense and local values intersect here on Kauai, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

This episode of What’s Good Kauaʻi? is brought to you by the Hawaiʻi Crop Improvement Association — supporting sustainable agriculture and innovation to help feed our islands and the world. Mahalo to HCIA for cultivating a thriving future for Hawaiʻi. 

Don’t miss Episode 4 of "What’s Good Kaua‘i?" This month, we feature the celebrated Kumu Hula Leina‘ala Pavao Jardin, who shares her captivating and uplifting story, beginning as a wide-eyed three-year-old keiki hula to the respected Kumu Hula she is today.

Kumu Hula Leina‘ala embodies the true spirit of aloha, living with respect, integrity, and harmony with the world around her. Join us as she unveils the power, beauty, and deep connection between hula, spirituality, and community.

This heartfelt conversation celebrates heritage, resilience, and the importance of legacy. Listen in and be inspired by the wisdom and grace of Kumu Hula Leina‘ala.
 

Sponsorship Acknowledgement: Lydgate Farms


We’re excited to share some incredible news about this month's sponsor, Lydgate Farms! Recently, Will and his dedicated team at Lydgate Farms were honored with a Gold award at the Global Cacao of Excellence Awards for their cacao's vibrant, fruity profile, featuring notes of pineapple, mango, strawberry, cherry, and orange. 🌟🍍🥭🍓🍒🍊

Not only that, last week, SingleThread Farms in Sonoma County, California, ranked among the world's top 50 culinary destinations, introduced three decadent desserts featuring Lydgate Farms’ award-winning cacao:

🔸Cacao nectar sorbet with olive oil jam 
🔸Cacao nib-infused white chocolate mousse with a cacao nectar center 
🔸Chocolate crunchy 'cigars' with feuilletine, sea salt, and nibby ganache

If you're lucky to live Kaua‘i then there is no need to travel to California for a taste of Lydgate Farms' award winning chocolate.  Lydgate Farms is conveniently located in Kapa‘a and Will invites local families to come for a farm tour and to visit their brand new storefront in Old Kapa‘a Town. 

🌱 Visit Lydgate Farms for more details.

 Meet the man behind the mic on this special episode of 'What’s Good Kauaʻi?'

Join us as we sit down with Ron Wiley, the heart and soul of Kauaʻi’s KONG Radio for over 35 years. Discover his incredible journey from his early days on air in Arizona to becoming a pillar of our community. Ron shares stories from his most memorable broadcasts, discusses the evolving world of radio, and reflects on how his role has supported the island through moments of joy and crisis.

Tune in to hear how Ron’s passion for radio and deep connection with Kauaʻi continues to uplift and inspire listeners every day. Don't miss this intimate conversation with Kauaʻi's favorite morning man.

Sponsorship Acknowledgement: Lydgate Farms

We are grateful for the generous support of Lydgate Farms. With over five generations of Hawaiian history and accolades including being named one of the top 50 best cacaos in the world three times,

Lydgate Farms exemplifies excellence and dedication to sustainable practices. Help them build a new industry on Kauaʻi.

For a taste of their exquisite offerings and to learn more about their story, visit Lydgate Farms.  

Join us in the second episode of "What's Good Kauaʻi?" as we delve into a meaningful conversation with Majority Leader of the Hawaiʻi State House of Representatives, Nadine Nakamura. 

Discover the dedication, leadership, and innovative policies of a figure who's at the forefront of shaping Kauaʻi's future. Nadine Nakamura's journey is one of resilience, vision, and unwavering commitment to the people and the land of Kauaʻi. From environmental stewardship to economic development, her efforts epitomize the essence of service and the pursuit of a sustainable and thriving island community for all.

In this episode, your host, Mark Perriello, explores the motivations, challenges, and successes that define Rep. Nakamura's tenure. Listen as we uncover the depth of her passion for Kauaʻi, her strategic initiatives, and her vision for a future where every resident has the opportunity to prosper.

Sponsorship Acknowledgment: Lydgate Farms

We are grateful for the generous support from Lydgate Farms. With over five generations of Hawaiian history and accolades including being named one of the top 50 best cacaos in the world three times,

Lydgate Farms exemplifies excellence and dedication to sustainable practices. Help them build a new industry on Kauaʻi.

For a taste of their exquisite offerings and to learn more about their story, visit Lydgate Farms.  

In our inaugural episode, we sit down with Monica Belz, President and CEO of Kaua'i Federal Credit Union. She is a champion for our island, whose work and passion are lighting a path forward and making Kauaʻi a more realizable place to live and work for the everyday residents of Kauaʻi.

This episode is made possible with generous support from Lydgate Farms Kaua'i Chocolate - founded with five generations of Hawaiian history and three times recognized as one of the top 50 best cacaos in the world.   

For more information visit: https://lydgatefarms.com/