Hōʻike Podcast Studio

As part of Hōʻike Community Media's commitment to community engagement and public access, we are providing voters with an opportunity to hear directly from the candidates running for Mayor of the County of Kauaʻi. This episode contains the complete 2026 Kauaʻi Mayor Candidate Interview Series. Each participating candidate was offered the opportunity to participate in a one-hour recorded inter...

Host Max Richardson sits down with Kauaʻi County Prosecuting Attorney Rebecca Like to discuss criminal justice, addiction recovery, public safety, rehabilitation, and the changing role of prosecution. From drug court and reentry programs to AI and the future of the justice system, this conversation offers a thoughtful look at how accountability and compassion work together to build safer communiti...

In this pilot episode of Kaua‘i Unscripted , each conversation begins with the draw of a card — moving through roots, path, truth, and impact . Allegra sits down with Addison Bulosan for a thoughtful, funny, and deeply grounded conversation about fatherhood, failure, health, community, and what Kaua‘i needs most right now. Addison shares how his two-year-old son Kilaʻa brings him peace, why “done...

This week’s County Council supplemental budget meeting was centered around community testimony on homelessness, housing insecurity, mental health services, affordable housing, and support programs across Kaua‘i. Councilmembers discussed balancing urgent community needs with ongoing county projects and long-term planning, while also reviewing funding related to early childhood education programs li...

In this episode of Community Connections, we spotlight the Ka Pewa Youth Summit, where student leaders from across Kauaʻi came together to share their voices, experiences, and ideas for the future of our community. Through student-led conversations, collaborative discussions, and meaningful reflection, the summit created space for youth leadership, connection, and growth. ✨ This episode highlight...

In this episode of Community Connections , Tricia Allen sits down with Helen Raine of the Pacific Birds Habitat Joint Venture to talk about the vital work being done to protect Hawaiʻi’s native and endangered bird species. From wetland restoration to seabird conservation, Helen shares how these efforts not only support wildlife, but also strengthen the connection between people and place across Ka...

In this episode of Island Alert , host Max Richardson sits down with Kaua‘i’s newly appointed Chief of Police, Rudy Tai, just days after his official change of command. With more than three decades of law enforcement experience, Chief Tai shares the journey that brought him from his roots in Pearl City to a leadership role on the mainland—and ultimately back home to serve the people of Hawai‘i. Gr...

This week’s County Council budget discussions offered a closer look at what it really takes to keep Kaua‘i running — from maintaining parks and infrastructure to responding to emerging challenges like the Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle. In this episode, we break down key themes from April 1st and 2nd, including how departments are managing staffing gaps, why some projects take time to move forward, and...

What’s really in Kauaʻi’s County budget? 💰 In this special Budget Breakdown episode , we break down Day 1 of budget hearings—so you don’t have to sit through hours of meetings. Here’s what we cover:  • Why the budget is increasing  • Where the County’s money actually comes from  • Where your tax dollars go  • And why housing is a major priority this year Plus—what officials are worried about head...

Ever wonder how everyday people on Kaua‘i can help save a life during a cardiac emergency? In this episode of Island Alert , host Max Richardson sits down with Chris Pico, Kaua‘i Ocean Safety Lifeguard , to talk about PulsePoint , a mobile app that alerts nearby CPR-trained responders when someone experiences cardiac arrest. Chris shares how witnessing a dramatic rescue as a teenager inspired him...

In this episode, we break down one of the biggest discussions from the March 11 Kauaʻi County Council meeting: the future of the Wailua Wastewater Treatment Plant. County officials are requesting an increase in a state loan from $14 million to $25.5 million to fund repairs at the aging facility near Lydgate. The plant is more than 60 years old, located in a tsunami zone, and unable to expand — rai...

Tim Leichliter, president and director of operations for Ho‘omalu Ke Kai, shares the story behind Kaua‘i’s first coral restoration nursery—a multi-year effort rooted at Nō‘milu Fishpond (Lū‘aupele) and built through community, partnerships, and persistence. Tim explains how their team collects “corals of opportunity” from man-made structures (instead of removing healthy coral from the reef), then...

Empowering futures through education—YWCA of Kauaʻi is now accepting applications for its Young Women’s Scholarship program. This spring, they’re awarding two college scholarships to support women across Kauaʻi pursuing higher education, including undergraduate and graduate studies. Applications are due March 30 at 4:30 p.m. Learn more at ywcakauai.org. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Instagram...

A major shoreline setback measure is moving again at the Kauaʻi County Council and Olivia explains how it could shape how the island manages coastal hazards, shoreline structures, and future development. In this quick County Council update, we break down why councilmembers unanimously advanced Bill No. 2984 (the version recommended by the Planning Commission), what changed from earlier drafts, and...

In this episode of Talkin Trash , Max Richardson and Allison Fraley sit down with Kaua‘i County Councilmember Fern Holland to talk about the Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle, compost and green waste, and the recent ban on single-use styrofoam boogie boards. The conversation explores environmental stewardship, waste reduction, and how the community can help protect Kaua‘i. Send us Fan Mail Support the sho...

Lea Balbin joins Community Connections to share details on Denim & Diamonds —a free line dancing night at Kukui Grove . 💎🤠 📅 Fri, Jan 23 • ⏰ 6–8 PM • 📍 Kukui Grove 🎟️ Free & open to the public Produced by Hōʻike Kauaʻi Community Media . #️⃣ #CommunityConnections #DenimAndDiamonds #LineDancing #KukuiGrove #HoikeKauai Send us Fan Mail Support the show Instagram • Facebook • Youtube • Ti...

Mū‘ūmū Month founders Shannon Hiramoto and Pammy Chock of the Kauaʻi Historical Society join Community Connections to share what’s coming up this month—celebrating the mū‘ūmū through community, culture, and a lineup of events (including the Mū‘ūmū Pā‘ina ). ✨ It’s not too late to join! 📅 Mū‘ūmū Month (events throughout the month) 📍 Tickets & details: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/ce...

Ever wonder what happens behind the scenes to keep Kaua‘i safe? In this episode of Island Alert , host Max Richardson heads to the Kaua‘i Police Department’s dispatch center, where every call for help begins. From coordinating emergency responses to supporting officers in the field, this episode highlights the people, precision, and heart behind public safety on Kaua‘i — and how teamwork helps pro...

ABLE Prom creates a joyful, inclusive celebration for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Ana Muñoz joins us to share how this event uplifts confidence, connection, and community. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Instagram • Facebook • Youtube • TikTok

Learn how to cut holiday waste on Kaua‘i with smart recycling tips, creative reuse ideas, and updates on the island’s landfill plans. Hosts Max Richardson and Allison Frilley share easy ways to celebrate sustainably and keep trash out of the landfill this season. Resources: kauai.gov | Solid Waste Division: (808) 241-4841 Send us Fan Mail Support the show Instagram • Facebook • Youtube • TikTok

The Kaua'i Ballet Academy's "The Nutcracker" breaks onto Kaua'i this weekend! Find out from the dancers themselves why you should go ahead and watch it! Send us Fan Mail Support the show Instagram • Facebook • Youtube • TikTok

Hāʻena Beach Park, lineal descendants, and a unanimous vote — somehow, it all connects this week. We break down what actually happened at the Kauaʻi County Council meeting so you don’t have to watch the whole thing. From the major land transfer to the future of access, parking, and community-led stewardship, here’s everything you need to know in just a few minutes. Send us Fan Mail Support the sho...

In this episode, we spotlight Hawai‘i Children’s Theatre as they bring The Music Man to the Kauaʻi stage. With energetic performances and classic musical charm, this beloved show highlights the power of community theatre. Opening Friday, Nov. 21 at the Kauaʻi War Memorial Convention Hall . More info: https://onthestage.tickets/show/hawaii-childrens-theatre/688947b739c9500ffe529451/tickets Send us...

Ever wonder how Kaua‘i’s police officers keep schools safe while guiding students toward better choices? In this episode of Island Alert, host Max Richardson continues his conversation with Officer Jonathan “Johnny” Anderson, School Resource Officer at Kapa‘a High School, diving deeper into the realities, challenges, and rewards of policing with empathy and heart. From the art of de-escalation and...

When Akanahe Rapozo first heard about The Into Light Project on the radio, she pulled over to the side of the road — knowing she had to share her partner Johnny’s story. In this heartfelt conversation, Akanahe opens up about love, loss, and finding hope after tragedy. Through The Into Light Project , she’s discovered a way to keep Johnny’s light alive — and to help others see that behind every sto...