As the Merrie Monarch Festival approaches, we take a deep dive into the heartbeat of hula and the journey of the dancers who dedicate themselves to this world-renowned competition. From grueling rehearsals to the sacred protocols of their hālau, we explore what it truly takes to prepare for the stage — and why hula is so much more than a performance.
Hear firsthand from dancers and cultural practitioners about how hula grounds them in identity, heals generational trauma, and strengthens both body and spirit. This episode honors the legacy of hula as a critical piece of Hawaiian health, healing, and resistance — a living practice that connects past, present, and future.
Feel the mana as our seasoned olapa (dancers) talk about the challenges and joys of preparing for an event that honors cultural legacy and personal growth. Whether you’re a hula enthusiast or just curious, this episode is your invitation to step into a world where tradition meets passionate storytelling. Don’t miss it!
00:00 Introduction of Panelists
09:35 The Significance of Hula
10:04 Hula and Health: A Wholistic Approach
20:21 Preparing for Merrie Monarch
28:43 The Kīpaepae Ceremony
31:18 Becoming the Conduit: The Exhausting Journey
31:38 The Meaning Behind the Ahu: Preparation and Significance
32:57 Rituals and the Price of Hula
34:36 Embodiment and Energy: Channeling the Pele
36:45 The Merrie Monarch Stage: First Impressions and Experiences
39:06 The Emotional Rollercoaster of Performance
45:04 The Significance of Kīpaepae
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@moananuipodcast, @thereallifemoana
#MerrieMonarch #MeleManaka #Hula #HulaCulture #HulaDance #CulturalHeritage #HulaFestival #HawaiianTraditions #HawaiianCulture #MindBodySpirit #CulturalPractices #HulaLife #HulaHealth #AlohaSpirit #Hulaohana #HulaHistory #HawaiianDance #CulturalConnection #PapaOlaLokahi #KupuOla #HulaJourney #HulaCommunity #HawaiiLifestyle #MoanaNuiPodcast
6 Apr 2025
Kāne Voices with Aaron Siple
Aloha! In this episode of Kāne Voices, we feature special guest, Aaron Siple who is a recipient of Papa Ola Lokahiʻs Native Hawaiian Health Scholarship. Join Lisa Ka'anoi as she chats with Aaron, a native Hawaiian navigating his way through the complexities of the mainland while pursuing his passion for healthcare.
Aaron shares his deep-rooted desire to return to Hawaiʻi, giving back to his community as a Physician Assistant, inspired by supportive family figures and the remarkable influence of his fiancée. From the sunny trails of Arizona back to the islands he calls home, Aaron’s journey is filled with determination, laughter, and a sincere commitment to service.
We explore the essence of identity, the longing for one's roots, and how cultural ties weave through personal and professional aspirations. It’s a story of finding your path, redefining what it means to be a Hawaiian kāne, and the importance of kuleana in one's life. Take this journey with us and find out why healthcare is not just a career, but a calling for Aaron.
00:00 Welcome to Moana Nui Podcast
02:11 Aaron's Background and Journey
03:31 Pursuing a Career in Healthcare
04:07 Challenges and Inspirations
06:11 Cultural Connections and Future Plans
10:06 The Importance of Male Healthcare Providers
12:13 Navigating Education and Career Choices
16:16 Choosing the PA Path
18:44 Discovering a Passion for Healthcare
19:55 Advice for Aspiring Healthcare Professionals
21:28 The Importance of Early Exposure to Healthcare Careers
25:34 Choosing the Right School and Overcoming Challenges
For more info on Papa Ola Lokahiʻs Native Hawaiian Health Scholarship: https://www.papaolalokahi.org/program/nhhsp
Applications open NOW through May 12, 2025!
Apply at: https://mom.smapply.org/
Follow the Moana Nui Podcast:
http://www.moananuipodcast.com
•Moana Nui Podcast on YouTube
/ moananuipodcast
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@moananuipodcast, @thereallifemoana
#KaneVoices #NativeHawaiian #HealthScholarship #AaronSiple #PhysicianAssistant #HealthcareHeroes #PodcastEpisode #PapaOlaLokahi #CulturalIdentity #WorkforceDevelopment #HawaiianScholarships #HealthcareJourney #CommunityCare #RuralHealth #HealthEducation #ScholarshipProgram #IndigenousHealth #CulturalHeritage #InspirationalStory #HealthcareProviders #Lahui #PharmacyJourney #HealthcareAdvocacy #Aloha #MauliOla #EducationalPodcast #SupportingHealth #HawaiianCulture #WellnessJourney #NativeVoices
6 Apr 2025
G20 Premier: Behind the Scenes with Viola Davis, Antony Starr, Marsai Martin, Anthony Anderson and more!
Hey there, movie buff! 🎥 Ever wonder what goes into making a blockbuster action film? Well, you're in for a treat! Join us as we dive into the journey of creating a star-studded action thriller that's streaming worldwide across eight countries. 🌍
From the adrenaline-pumping helicopter scenes to the intense conference room choreography, our incredible cast and crew share their personal highs and lows. You'll hear from industry legends like Viola Davis and rising stars who brought this epic story to life, revealing the hard work and passion that fueled every scene.
Plus, get the scoop on filming in exotic South Africa, tackling unexpected challenges, and all the behind-the-scenes fun that made this movie a truly global phenomenon. Whether it's improvised lines or emergency room-worthy stunts, this is a filmmaking adventure you won't want to miss! Buckle up and join our star-studded Q&A for exclusive insights and a few laughs along the way! 🍿🎬
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
121,938
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
6 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 79 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
98
Social presence
0
YouTube
82
Engagement
68
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