In this episode, Steve Shooter dives e into the awesome life and many talents of Dean Song, a real jack-of-all-trades from Hawaii. We explore Dean’s deep love for the ocean, his passion for making leather goods, his journey into composing music for video games, and his love for body boarding.

The episode starts with Dean talking about his Hawaiian roots, where he grew up surfing and bodyboarding at famous spots like Rock Piles, Kaisers, and Bowls. He shares the importance of respect and etiquette in the water, emphasizing how crucial it is to earn your place in the surfing community.

As we go deeper into Dean's story, we learn about his shift from a career in sound engineering and DJing to opening a curated gift shop that focuses on unique design goods. Dean’s attention to detail and commitment to quality come through as he talks about his passion for creating leather goods and personalized products.

Dean's humility and laid-back attitude stand out throughout the episode, with a strong emphasis on staying grounded and true to his craft. His dedication is clear, whether he's designing a new bodyboard, composing music for video games, or handcrafting leather wallets in his shop.

The conversation gets more personal as Dean talks about his role as a husband and father, highlighting the importance of balance and family in his life. His commitment to quality, creativity, and authenticity is inspiring for aspiring craftsmen and creatives.

As the episode wraps up, Dean hints at future projects, including expanding his line of leather goods and hosting workshops to share his craft. His journey is a perfect example of how passion, dedication, and staying true to yourself can lead to success in a world that often craves attention and recognition.

Join me for this enlightening and inspiring chat with Dean Song, a true embodiment of creativity, craftsmanship, and the spirit of aloha.

In this episode, I had the absolute honor and privilege of sitting down with Keali'i Panley, a young man deeply rooted in his Hawaiian heritage and culture. Keali'i shared with us his upbringing in a plantation village, where he was surrounded by Hawaiian, Filipino, and Samoan cultures. Growing up in Whitmore Village, Keali'i emphasized the importance of family time at the beach, where they would engage in various water activities like surfing, boogie boarding, and fishing.

Keali'i's connection to nature and his cultural roots was further highlighted through his passion for body surfing, a sport he excels in and is deeply passionate about. He shared the significance of body surfing in Hawaiian culture, where the size of the board reflected one's status, with larger boards reserved for those of higher rank. Keali'i's dedication to body surfing, or "kaha nalu," goes beyond sport; it is a way for him to connect with the ocean, his ancestors, and the land.

Throughout the conversation, Keali'i delved into the challenges he has faced, particularly the struggle to slow down and appreciate the journey of life rather than rushing to achieve goals. He reflected on his energetic nature and the discipline he gained from his time in JROTC, which shaped his approach to life.

Keali'i's story is one of resilience, cultural preservation, and a deep connection to nature. His journey of self-discovery and learning to balance modern life with traditional values serves as an inspiration to all who listen. Through his passion for body surfing and dedication to preserving Hawaiian culture, Keali'i embodies the spirit of aloha and the importance of staying connected to one's roots.

Listeners are sure to be moved and inspired by Keali'i's story, his love for the ocean, and his commitment to honoring his heritage through the art of body surfing. Join us in celebrating Keali'i's journey and the lessons he imparts on living in harmony with nature and culture.

In this inaugural episode of the podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Macy Mullen, a pro surfer and jiu-jitsu enthusiast, to delve into his journey through the highs and lows of his life. Macy shared his experiences growing up in Hawaii, where he discovered his love for surfing at a young age, thanks to his father's influence. He reminisced about the supportive community that surrounded him, including mentors like his coach at Quicksilver, Donald Pahea, who instilled in him the belief to never let setbacks define him.

Macy opened up about the pivotal role jiu-jitsu played in shaping his character and providing him with valuable life lessons. He highlighted how jiu-jitsu taught him humility, self-control, and the ability to navigate through challenging situations both on and off the mat. Through humorous anecdotes and heartfelt reflections, Macy emphasized the importance of being present in the moment and finding strength in the support of loved ones and mentors.

The conversation with Macy delved into the deeper meaning behind his passion for jiu-jitsu and surfing, showcasing how these activities have not only honed his physical skills but also transformed his mindset and approach to life. Macy's journey from a rudderless teenager to a dedicated athlete and family man exemplifies the power of perseverance, resilience, and the unwavering support of those around him.

As Macy shared his personal anecdotes and life lessons, the podcast episode resonated with themes of self-discovery, growth, and the profound impact of positive influences in shaping one's journey. Through Macy's story, listeners are reminded of the importance of embracing challenges, finding strength in vulnerability, and cherishing the connections that uplift and inspire us along the way.

The episode concluded with a message of hope and encouragement, urging listeners to be present, embrace their unique journeys, and spread positivity and stoke in their interactions with others. Macy's journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of pursuing one's passions, seeking growth through adversity, and finding strength in the support of a community that believes in your potential.

Join us in the next episode as we continue to explore the stories of individuals who embody resilience, determination, and the unwavering spirit of pursuing their dreams.