Focus Hawaii

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  Focus Hawaii Grant Underwood

  Zane Clark and Grant Underwood

  Hosted by Zane Clark, this episode of Focus Hawaii features historian Grant Underwood, who discusses his work with the Joseph Fielding Smith Institute and his role in the Mormon Pacific Historical Society during its 20th‑anniversary celebration. Underwood shares insights about compiling and editing Voyages of Faith, a collection preserving two decades of scholarly presentations on Latter‑day Saint history in the Pacific. He explains the contributions of foundational figures like Leonard Arrington and Lance Chase, highlights compelling historical narratives—including early missionary experiences, cultural encounters, Hawaiian Saints’ stories, hula lineage, temple history, and reconciled community divisions—and reflects on how editing the volume brought overlooked archival materials, oral histories, and academic research together.

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  Focus Hawaii Gregory John Newell

  Lance Chase and Gregory John Newell

  Hosted by Lance Chase, this episode of Focus Hawaii features Gregory John Newell, the United States Ambassador to Sweden and the youngest American ever to hold an ambassadorship. Newell recounts his journey from humble beginnings in Illinois and California to studying at the Church College of Hawaiʻi, serving a mission in Europe, and pursuing a political path that led him into high‑level national service under Presidents Nixon, Ford, and Reagan. He describes his work in presidential campaigns, his tenure as Assistant Secretary of State for multilateral foreign policy, and his eventual appointment as ambassador charged with repairing strained U.S.–Sweden relations rooted in the Vietnam era. Newell also discusses diplomatic life in Stockholm, security challenges—including an attempted attack—raising his young family abroad, the cultural benefits of international schooling, his efforts to learn Swedish, the realities of ambassadorial salary and cost of living, and his future plans in government or the private sector.

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  Focus Hawaii Hauula Elementary Year Round School

  Lance Chase, Linda Shimamoto, Mele Ah Ho, and Annette Santiago

  Hosted by Lance Chase, this Focus Hawaii episode explores Hauʻula Elementary School’s bold transition to a year‑round school calendar, featuring Principal Linda Shimamoto, intersession director Mele Ah Ho, and Hauʻula Community Park representative Annette Santiago. Together they explain how the shift—initiated through school–community‑based management—aims to reduce learning loss from long summer breaks, strengthen reading and math performance, and provide enrichment opportunities through optional intersessions. The discussion highlights strong collaboration between school staff, parents, and the park system, as well as innovative intersession activities selected democratically by the students, such as swimming, science, cultural themes, and hands‑on projects. The guests describe early positive signs, strong enrollment beyond expectations, active parental interest, and the potential for this model to expand to other Windward Oʻahu schools.

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  Focus Hawaii Hawaiian Canoe

  Tuione Pulotu, William Wallace, Jon Jonnassen, and Kamoa'e Walk

  This episode of Focus Hawaii highlights the construction of a traditional double‑hulled Hawaiian canoe in Lāʻie, led by master carver Tuione Pulotu under the direction of William “Uncle Bill” Wallace of BYU–Hawaii’s Hawaiian Studies Program, in partnership with the Polynesian Cultural Center and Hawaiʻi Reserves Inc. Viewers witness the intricate carving process—from chainsaw shaping to adze finishing—and learn about the cultural, spiritual, and community significance of the project. The episode also features Jon Jonnassen and Kamoaʻe Walk, who introduce and contextualize rare footage of an ancient Cook Islands chant performed during a ceremonial visit by a group from Rarotonga. The chant, recited by tribal leader Vaitoti Tupa, honors ancestral connections, leadership traditions, and the sacred relationship between people, land, and waka (canoes).

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  Focus Hawaii Hugh Nibley

  Lance Chase and Hugh Nibley

  Hosted by Lance Chase, this episode of Focus Hawaii features renowned scholar Hugh Nibley, a linguist, historian, and classicist from BYU Provo. Nibley talks about his lifelong study of ancient languages and cultures and discusses the idea of ritual, explaining how ritual patterns shape everyday life as well as ancient temples. He describes the central role temples played in early civilizations and why he believes many modern institutions grew out of temple traditions. The conversation also explores university life, scholarship, teaching, and the challenges of modern education, with Nibley sharing his views on research, academic pressures, technology, and the value of clear, simple communication. He also speaks about his current research on Egyptian documents and reflects on how scholars should stay humble, keep learning, and focus on truth rather than recognition.

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  Focus Hawaii Hypertension

  Lance Chase, Kathy Bow, Jeff Kong, and Lee Muller

  Hosted by Lance Chase, this episode of Focus Hawaii features Kathy Bow of the State Hypertension Program, pharmacist Jeff Kong, and firefighter Lee Muller as they discuss high blood pressure awareness during National Blood Pressure Week. The guests explain lifestyle‑based prevention strategies, why hypertension often shows no symptoms, and the importance of regular screenings, especially through Hawai‘i’s statewide fire‑station blood‑pressure check program. They highlight how firefighters are trained to provide free screenings, how community outreach helps identify at‑risk individuals, and how public education—combined with early detection—plays a vital role in preventing heart disease, stroke, and related health problems.

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  Focus Hawaii Iosepa Voyage

  Brigham Young University Hawaii

  This episode documents the 2004 voyage of Iosepa, the double‑hulled wooden voyaging canoe built and sailed by students and community members connected to BYU–Hawaii. Much of the program consists of extensive on‑canoe footage, capturing preparation, training, repairs, rigging, and the realities of life at sea. Crew members describe how the voyage served as cultural seamanship training—learning ropework, mast setup, bracing lines, hull maintenance, navigation awareness, and watch‑system teamwork. The video includes scenes of pre‑departure work, assisting Makali‘i in dry dock, stepping the mast, securing tow lines, and preparing gear before launching. During the sail itself, viewers see the canoe cutting through waves, water pumping from the hulls, students battling seasickness, cooking meals in the galley box, working night shifts, facing cold winds and channel conditions, and supporting one another throughout the journey. The episode also shares personal reflections: the dream in which the canoe was named Iosepa, honoring Hawaiian ancestors who settled and later returned from the Iosepa colony in Utah; the presence of younger students learning the ropes; and the emotional bond formed through shared challenge. The voyage concludes with harbor entry footage, docking procedures, unloading cargo, and a prayer of gratitude after 24 hours at sea.

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  Focus Hawaii "Is Sailing Hard?"

  William K. Wallace III

  In this episode of Focus Hawaii, William K. Wallace III shares an intense, firsthand account of the physical, mental, and emotional demands of sailing the Hawaiian voyaging canoe Iosepa. He describes the rigorous preparation required even before the canoe touches the ocean—swim tests, loading hundreds of pounds of rigging, stepping the mast, coordinating crew movements, and managing heavy spars and sails. Once at sea, Wallace explains the reality of voyaging: exhaustion from nonstop labor, steering against heavy swells, quickly responding to shifting winds, and navigating dangerous channels such as Kaʻiwi, ʻAlenuihāhā, and ʻOpailolo. He recounts moments of near-collapse, seasickness, injury, and the crew’s need to push past their physical limits, as well as emergency maneuvers taken to protect the canoe during rapidly changing weather. His story reveals deep respect for ancestral seamanship and emphasizes that voyaging Iosepa demands extraordinary strength, discipline, teamwork, and spiritual resilience.

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  Focus Hawaii Jack Hoag. V. Napua Baker, and Les Steward

  Lance Chase, Napua Baker, Jack Hoag, and Les Steward

  Hosted by Lance Chase, this episode of Focus Hawaii features an in‑depth conversation with Napua Baker (BYU–Hawaii Vice President for Advancement), Jack Hoag (President & CEO of Hawaii Reserves, Inc.), and Les Steward (Senior Vice President of Operations at the Polynesian Cultural Center). Together they discuss how BYU–Hawaii, PCC, and HRI form a unique, interconnected economic and cultural hub in Laie—providing over 3,000 jobs, sustaining vital infrastructure, supporting education through scholarships and internships, and preserving local culture. Hoag outlines HRI’s efforts to modernize utilities and increase community involvement, while Steward shares major PCC updates including new shows, expanded cultural retail spaces, and facility improvements. Baker highlights new academic initiatives such as the Hawaiian Studies program, along with scholarships and workforce pathways that enable international and local students to gain high‑quality educations debt‑free. The discussion emphasizes long‑term planning, rural preservation, and a shared mission to strengthen Laie’s future.

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  Focus Hawaii James Arringtom Brother Brigham

  Lance Chase and James Arrington

  Hosted by Lance Chase, this episode of Focus Hawaii features James Arrington, acclaimed actor, playwright, and performer, known for his one‑man stage productions portraying historical figures such as Brigham Young and J. Golden Kimball. Arrington discusses his artistic journey, from formal theater training to developing original solo performances rooted in Western and Latter‑day Saint history, emphasizing the challenges of writing, researching, and performing historically based material in an engaging and accurate way. He offers insight into the craft of acting, including the dynamic relationship between performer and audience, the discipline required to sustain compelling performances, and the creative process of transforming historical figures into relatable, human characters. The episode culminates in a live excerpt from his well‑known production Here’s Brother Brigham, in which Arrington portrays Brigham Young, blending humor, historical interpretation, and theatrical storytelling to bring the past to life.

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  Focus Hawaii James Chasteen

  Lance Chase and James Chasteen

  Hosted by Lance Chase, this episode of Focus Hawaii features Dr. James Chasteen, President and CEO of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), during his first visit to Hawai‘i to meet with NAIA‑member schools. Dr. Chasteen discusses his long career in higher education—including serving simultaneously as president of two Alabama colleges—and outlines the NAIA’s mission, governance structure, and strong commitment to academic standards, student success, and institutional integrity. He explains how the NAIA differs from the NCAA, highlights the organization’s pioneering history in offering postseason play for women and Black student‑athletes, and emphasizes its unique honor‑system approach to eligibility. The conversation also explores the NAIA’s growth, district structure, championship opportunities, the role of faculty and presidents in governance, and emerging priorities for strengthening the organization into the future.

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  Focus Hawaii Jamie Kealoha

  Lance Chase and Jamie Kealoha

  Hosted by Lance Chase, this episode of Focus Hawaii features Jamie Kealoha, a 16‑year‑old Hawai‘i student and successful international teen model, who offers a candid look at balancing education, personal values, and a demanding modeling career. A junior at ʻIolani School and an honor student, Kealoha discusses how she manages academic responsibilities alongside professional opportunities that have taken her to Paris, Spain, and New York. She reflects on both the glamorous and challenging aspects of modeling, explaining the long hours, travel, and competitive environment, while emphasizing the importance of maintaining her religious standards, family support, and personal identity. The conversation also explores her future goals beyond modeling—including college, teaching, and family life—as well as the cultural and ethical challenges faced by young people in high‑visibility careers. Through her perspective, the episode highlights themes of discipline, humility, and the importance of grounding career ambitions in strong personal values.

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  Focus Hawaii Jan Fisher

  Lance Chase and Jan Fisher

  Hosted by Lance Chase, this episode of Focus Hawaii features Jan Fisher, a BYU–Hawaii art professor and sculptor known for his large bronze monuments and powerful figurative work. Fisher shares his background—from teaching in American Samoa to studying ceramics and sculpture in California—and explains why he works almost entirely through commissions. He describes major projects such as the Koloa Sugar Monument on Kaua‘i, a massive millstone‑shaped sculpture containing near‑life‑size bronze figures, as well as his commissioned fountain for Dr. Robert Schuller and an equestrian sculpture of St. Louis. Throughout the interview, Fisher talks about his artistic philosophy, his shift from abstract ceramic forms to Renaissance‑inspired figurative sculpture, and the emotional and spiritual experiences he has while creating. He also discusses his teaching approach, his belief in balancing art and family life, and his excitement about competing as a finalist in a national sculpture competition in Washington, D.C.

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  Focus Hawaii Janice Matsunaga M.D. President, Hawaii Dermatological Society

  Lance Chase and Janice Matsunaga

  Hosted by Lance Chase, this episode of Focus Hawaii features dermatologist Dr. Janice Matsunaga, who shares essential information about skin cancer awareness, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Dr. Matsunaga, born and raised in Honolulu and trained at the University of Hawai‘i’s John A. Burns School of Medicine and UCSF, discusses the American Cancer Society’s designation of 1993 as the “Year of Skin Cancer” and explains the campaign slogan “Practice Safe Sun.” She describes how to choose and properly use sunscreen, clarifies concerns about SPF levels and chemical ingredients such as PABA, and outlines the risks posed by sun exposure in Hawai‘i’s intense climate. She details the characteristics of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and malignant melanoma—supplemented with visual examples—and emphasizes the importance of early detection through self‑examination and regular dermatological checkups. The episode also covers pre‑cancerous lesions, treatments ranging from liquid nitrogen to emerging therapies, the effects of ozone depletion, and practical steps families can take to protect children and adults from long‑term sun damage.

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  Focus Hawaii Jennifer & Nicole Kajiyama

  Lance Chase, Jennifer Kajiyama, and Nicole Kajiyama

  Hosted by Lance Chase, this episode of Focus Hawaii features Jennifer and Nicole Kajiyama, high‑achieving twin juniors at Kahuku High School, who share their experiences as student leaders, scholars, and multiple‑time participants in National History Day competitions. The twins discuss their award‑winning research projects focused on Hawai‘i history, including their in‑depth dramatic presentation on Walter Murray Gibson, a complex nineteenth‑century political figure whose ambitions, controversies, and influence on the Hawaiian monarchy embodied both tragedy and triumph. Beyond their history scholarship, Jennifer and Nicole describe their active roles in state and district student government, leadership conferences, church youth organizations, and extracurricular clubs, highlighting the opportunities available in Hawai‘i’s public schools. Through thoughtful reflection, the episode underscores the value of civic engagement, rigorous academic inquiry, and supportive family and community in shaping motivated young leaders.

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  Focus Hawaii Jerry Jarrett

  Lance Chase and Jerry Jarrett

  Hosted by Lance Chase, this episode of Focus Hawaii features Jerry Jarrett, a professional stage and television actor, who visits Brigham Young University–Hawai‘i to perform the lead role of Tevye in Fiddler on the Roof. Drawing on decades of experience in Broadway productions, television, and national tours, Jarrett reflects on his acting career, the challenges of the performing arts, and the discipline required to succeed in theater. He discusses the enduring themes of Fiddler on the Roof—including tradition, family relationships, and social change—and explains their universal appeal across cultures, particularly within the diverse student community at BYU–Hawai‘i. The conversation also explores the realities of acting as a profession, from training and perseverance to rejection and resilience, while highlighting the unique dynamic of casting an international ensemble and the continuing vitality of live theater as a meaningful cultural and artistic tradition.

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  Focus Hawaii Jerry Kermode Woodworker

  Lance Chase and Jerry Kermode

  Hosted by Lance Chase, this episode of Focus Hawaii visits woodturner and craftsman Jerry Kermode at his North Shore workshop. Kermode, originally from California and living in Hawai‘i since 1978, shares how he shifted from Victorian home restoration and sailboat building to becoming one of Hawai‘i’s best‑known woodturners. He discusses his conservation‑focused philosophy of using only reclaimed or necessary‑to‑remove trees, his love of local woods such as koa, milo, kamani, and even rare species like Hawaiian kō, and his membership in the Hawaii Forest Industry Association. Surrounded by his bowls, drums, natural‑edge pieces, and hand‑built lathes, he explains his approach to “non‑violent woodturning,” teaching others to work with relaxation and flow rather than force. Kermode also describes his work for churches, his involvement in local schools, and his dream of helping revive woodturning education statewide.

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  Focus Hawaii Joe Ah Quin

  Joe Ah Quin

  This episode of Focus Hawaii features a special concert by Joe Ah Quin (Waiʻoha), an eighth‑generation Laʻie native whose name, meaning “a beautiful voice that mirrors life’s finest moments,” reflects both his heritage and his artistry. The program opens with the story of his birth and the cultural significance of his family’s ancestral names, then moves into a series of heartfelt musical performances. Ah Quin shares sacred selections such as Oh, Touch Mine Eyes, highlighting Christian themes of compassion and service, followed by powerful renditions of classics including The Impossible Dream from Man of La Mancha, the prologue from Pagliacci, Broadway favorites from Annie Get Your Gun, and emotional American standards like Old Man River. He discusses the musical influences that shaped him—teachers like Shigeru Hotoki and Senator Daniel Akaka—and reflects on growing up in Hawaiʻi during the era when movies were the primary form of entertainment, leading to his admiration for performers like Mario Lanza, whose iconic Granada he performs to conclude the concert. The episode celebrates his deep roots, vocal mastery, and lifelong dedication to sharing music as a gift of the heart.

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  Focus Hawaii John Toner General Manager Ritz-Carlton Kapalua Part 1

  Lance Chase and Ritz Carlton Kapalua

  Hosted by Lance Chase, this episode of Focus Hawaii features John Toner, General Manager of the Ritz‑Carlton Kapalua, who shares his journey from Ohio to becoming a leader in one of Hawaii’s premier luxury hotels. Toner discusses his early career in marketing, his unexpected path into the hospitality industry, and the hands‑on approach that shaped his commitment to quality—working every department, learning Hawaiian culture, and earning staff respect from the ground up. He recounts experiences at Westin, Hyatt Maui, and the formative early days of Ritz‑Carlton, including developing major hotels, navigating booming tourism eras, and helping introduce the Ritz‑Carlton brand in Southern California. Toner also highlights Ritz‑Carlton’s people‑centered leadership philosophy, daily lineup meetings, employee empowerment, and the company’s rigorous quality standards—all leading into the groundwork for their later pursuit of the Malcolm Baldrige Award.

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  Focus Hawaii John Toner General Manager Ritz-Carlton Kapalua Part 2

  Lance Chase and Ritz Carlton Kapalua

  In this Focus Hawaii episode, host Lance Chase interviews John Toner, General Manager of the Ritz‑Carlton Kapalua on Maui, in a continuation of their discussion on total quality management and the prestigious Malcolm Baldrige Award. Toner explains how the award evaluates companies across industries, the rigorous application and inspection process, and how the Ritz‑Carlton’s focus on internal customer satisfaction—its employees—drives exceptional external service for guests. He shares examples of service philosophy in action, including the Ritz‑Carlton credo, the company’s three steps of service, and extraordinary acts of employee initiative. Toner also discusses the competitive landscape of luxury hotels in Hawaii, the importance of culture and employee involvement, the challenges of maintaining consistent service across 15,000 employees, and why the hotel’s service excellence is rooted in genuine care rather than luxury amenities alone.

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  Focus Hawaii Jonassen Cook Island Video

  Lance Chase, John Jonassen, and Diya Jonassen

  Hosted by Lance Chase, this captivating 1995 episode of Focus Hawaii features John and Diya Jonassen of the Cook Islands—two cultural authorities deeply connected to the chiefly lines of Rarotonga, Aitutaki, Mangaia, and other islands of the Cooks. The interview centers on a rare and historically significant event: the filming of the investiture ceremony of the Makea Nui Ariki, one of the highest-ranking chiefly titles in the Cook Islands. With Diya having traveled with director Larry Lau to record the ceremony—a privilege seldom granted to outsiders—the Jonassens guide viewers through its cultural meaning, sacred protocols, and political implications. They explain the complex selection process, the interplay between traditional Maori custom and English colonial legal systems, and the dramatic rivalry between multiple claimants. Through video excerpts, the episode highlights ceremonial dressings, ancient marae settings, traditional roles of families and subchiefs, the famed symbolic biting of the pig’s ear, and the community’s expressions of allegiance. At its heart, the program offers a rare, intimate view of Polynesian leadership traditions, cultural continuity, and the tensions modern governance introduces into age‑old systems of rank and succession.

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  Focus Hawaii Junior Ah You

  Lance Chase and Junior Ah You

  Hosted by Lance Chase, this episode of Focus Hawaii features Junior Ah You, a former standout football player, professional athlete, community figure, and aspiring public servant whose life journey spans American Samoa, Hawai‘i, and professional sports in North America. Ah You reflects on growing up on the North Shore, starring at Kahuku High School, and earning a scholarship to Arizona State University, where he became an All‑Conference defensive lineman and played on nationally dominant teams. He recounts his 11‑year professional football career with the Montreal Alouettes and later the USFL, discussing the challenges of athletics, finances, injuries, and life after retirement. The conversation also explores Polynesian cultural values, family responsibility, education, and his transition into real estate and local politics, where his motivations center on community advocacy and service rather than personal ambition. Note that the video has audio all the time but some parts of the video are not showing.

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  Focus Hawaii Junior League of Honolulu

  Lance Chase, Mindy Tucker, Carol Lee Owens, and Valerie Adams

  Hosted by Lance Chase, this episode of Focus Hawaii features Junior League of Honolulu leaders Mindy Tucker, Carol Lee Owens, and Valerie Adams, who share the League’s long history of community service, volunteer leadership, and hands‑on projects across Oʻahu. They discuss the organization’s 70‑year legacy, its 650‑member base, and the extensive training, fundraising, and civic engagement efforts that support programs ranging from the Hawai‘i Nature Center and Children’s Advocacy initiatives to the impactful Christmas in April home‑repair project for elderly and disabled homeowners. Through personal stories—like rebuilding stairs, repairing roofs, and helping vulnerable families—the guests highlight the League’s mission to identify community needs, develop solutions, and empower women to lead meaningful service efforts. Please note: at the end of the video, the audio cuts off.

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  Focus Hawaii Kahana Valley Fair 1996

  Lance Chase, Auriella Hughes, Al Rogers, and Kekela Miller

  Hosted by Lance Chase, this 1996 episode of Focus Hawaii spotlights the third annual Kahana Valley Health Fair, a community‑driven event dedicated to improving health awareness and strengthening cultural ties within the Kahana Valley community. Guests Auriella Hughes (RN, Kahuku Hospital), Al Rogers (Park Manager, Ahupuaʻa O Kahana State Park), and Kekela Miller (State Parks program coordinator and longtime Kahana resident) share insights into the planning, purpose, and impact of the fair. They discuss the valley’s unique cooperative lease program, deep cultural history, and longstanding health challenges—including diabetes, hypertension, teen pregnancy, and limited access to health services. The fair brings together more than 35 health agencies, Kahuku Hospital staff, local artisans, kupuna, youth groups, and residents to provide screenings, education, Hawaiian healing demonstrations, cultural activities, healthy foods, hikes, and performances. Through community involvement, cultural preservation, and a holistic approach combining Western and traditional Hawaiian healing practices, the fair fosters trust, unity, and empowerment in a historically isolated community. The episode includes lively footage of food booths, crafts, entertainment, PCC performers, keiki activities, and Hawaiian healing demonstrations, culminating in a reaffirmation of laulima—the community working together for collective health and well‑being.

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  Focus Hawaii Kajiyama Twins

  Lance Chase, Jennifer Kajiyama, and Nicole Kajiyama

  Hosted by Lance Chase, this episode of Focus Hawaii welcomes back Jennifer and Nicole Kajiyama, accomplished twin seniors from Kahuku High School, for an update on their remarkable academic and leadership achievements since their previous appearance. The twins discuss their success at the National History Day competition, where their dramatic performance on Walter Murray Gibson placed ninth in the nation, marking a historic achievement for Hawai‘i in the performance category. Jennifer reflects on her participation in the Summer Honors Institute at Ricks College, earning college credit while still in high school, while Nicole shares her experiences serving as a page in the U.S. House of Representatives, working firsthand in the legislative process and meeting national leaders. Throughout the conversation, the sisters reflect on public education in Hawai‘i, leadership opportunities, cultural identity, civic engagement, and future aspirations, offering a compelling portrait of motivated young leaders shaped by scholarship, service, and community support.