Voice of Business Podcast by the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii

What helps goals actually stick? In this episode of the Voice of Business podcast, presented by ALTRES , Kate Wade of The Goalden System shares how executive function coaching can help individuals and organizations create sustainable productivity systems, build confidence and develop practical habits that support success. As the “Voice of Business” in Hawaii, the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii is a st...

Direct mail still has a lot of staying power. In our latest episode of the Voice of Business podcast, presented by ALTRES , we sit down with Aaron MacDaniel, Owner of Valpak of Hawaii , to explore how targeted direct mail (paired with the right data) can cut through digital noise and deliver real ROI for local businesses. Aaron shares what too many businesses get wrong with mail campaigns, how to...

In this episode of the Voice of Business podcast, presented by ALTRES , host Jo McGarry speaks with Sean Tangco, Founder of Small Kine Research & Action , about how organizations can turn research and insight into meaningful, lasting change. Sean shares how understanding human behavior, culture, and systems can help businesses move beyond surface-level data and design strategies that actually...

How are North Shore businesses recovering after the recent Kona Low? In this episode of the Voice of Business podcast, presented by ALTRES , Carol Philips, Vice President of the North Shore Chamber of Commerce , shares firsthand insight on the challenges local businesses face and what support is needed most. The conversation highlights recovery efforts, including a dedicated relief fund, and ways...

On this episode of the Voice of Business podcast, presented by ALTRES , we talk with Seiichi Nagai, Co-Founder & CEO of CivicNexus , a Hawaii-based platform helping organizations track legislation and understand policy changes in real time. We explore the growing role of legislative intelligence in business strategy, why proactive advocacy matters more than ever, and how modern tools are makin...

In this episode of the Voice of Business podcast, presented by ALTRES , Dr. Ashley Renea of Ola Kai Behavioral Hawaii explains how today’s always-on work environment affects professionals. She shares when to seek support, how employers can respond, and the long-term benefits of prioritizing mental health. Tune in to learn practical strategies for building healthier, more resilient teams.  As the “...

In this episode of the Voice of Business podcast, presented by ALTRES , we celebrate National Doctors Day (March 30). We sit down with Dr. Leslie Chun, CEO of Hawaii Pacific Health Medical Group , to explore the intersection of healthcare and Hawaii’s workforce. From provider shortages to evolving care models, Dr. Chun shares insights on what employers should know, how health impacts business outc...

In this episode of the Voice of Business podcast, Dr. Brandy Ann Sato, President of Sacred Hearts Academy and proud alumna, shares how the Academy cultivates confident, purpose-driven young women. She reflects on the experiences that shape girls’ leadership, the ways students use their voices and talents to create real community impact, and why uplifting girls matters for Hawaii’s future. Listen f...

In this episode of Voice of Business, presented by ALTRES , we sit down with Gordon Powers, Founder and CEO of The Powers Group . We discuss how businesses can optimize operations, adapt to changing markets, and leverage AI, analytics, and modern software solutions to grow smarter and more efficiently. Gordon shares practical insights on why technology isn’t just for large companies and how local...

In this episode of Voice of Business, presented by ALTRES , we sit down with Kam Napier, Editor-in-Chief of Aloha State Daily . He shares how business coverage has evolved in Hawaii, how companies can communicate more effectively with the media, and why accuracy matters in an era of fast news and social media. We also discuss the shared responsibility of businesses and journalists in combating mis...

Jacob Aki, Senior Public Affairs Manager for Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines , joins the podcast to discuss the airlines’ long-standing partnership with Chamber Weeks, Hawaii’s premier business networking and professional development event. He shares how this collaboration reflects their commitment to supporting local businesses and strengthening community connections across the islands.  Fr...

In this episode of Voice of Business, presented by ALTRES , we sit down with Ephraim Opara, Founder and CEO of Black Fabric Security . A former U.S. Marine Corps Platoon Sergeant, Ephraim brings global force-protection experience to Hawai‘i’s residential, hospitality, and public-sector security needs. We explore how security services can be customized for Hawaii’s diverse industries and how advanc...

In this episode of Voice of Business, presented by ALTRES , we sit down with Aaron Merchen, Executive Director of Policy and Programs at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation . Aaron leads the Foundation’s national early childhood education efforts, helping policymakers, chambers, and advocates strengthen the workforce through childcare and early learning investments. We explore how childcare di...

In this episode, Hawaii attorney Gerald “Jerry” Clay shares how his Partnering approach helps businesses and nonprofits prevent disputes, strengthen relationships, and save money. Drawing on 50-plus years of experience, Jerry explains collaborative strategies that build trust, boost productivity, and transform conflict into opportunity. Learn how prevention and facilitation can change the way team...

In this episode, HTDC CEO Trung Lam joins us to explore how innovation is transforming Hawaii’s business landscape. From emerging tech sectors like space, ocean, and health, to workforce development and entrepreneurship, Trung shares insights on building a resilient, forward-looking ecosystem and advice for leaders ready to innovate in the islands. As the “Voice of Business” in Hawaii, the Chamber...

In this episode, Family Promise of Hawaii Executive Director Ryan Catalani joins us to discuss how homelessness impacts Hawai‘i’s economy, local businesses, and working families — and how the business community can help be part of the solution. He shares with host Amiel Bituin of Kauai Growth how partnerships, workforce training, and second-chance hiring can create lasting change and strengthen co...

In celebration of the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii ’s 175th anniversary, we’re revisiting our very first episode featuring President & CEO Sherry Menor. Hear how local businesses can benefit from joining the Chamber, from advocacy and networking to resources that help Hawai‘i’s business community thrive. ✨ In honor of this milestone, new members will receive $175 off their first year of members...

In a state shaped by unique cultural, economic, and social dynamics, this episode dives into how market research is guiding smarter, more culturally grounded business decisions. Host Kara Doles Hughes of Leihoohie is joined by Ward Research 's Rebecca Soon, a Native Hawaiian woman business owner, to explore how local perspectives offer deeper insight into consumer behavior and why these insig...

In this episode, guest host Kara Doles Hughes of Leihoohie and Liz Skillen of Tidal Basin explore how Hawaii’s businesses can proactively prepare for hurricane season through smart emergency planning, disaster recovery strategies, and financial readiness. From protecting assets to accessing federal and local resources, learn how companies can stay resilient (and even uncover new economic opportuni...

In this episode, guest host Kara Doles Hughes of Leihoohie and Mark Gregory of ITHawaii.com dive into the unique challenges Hawaii entrepreneurs face when launching and growing a business, from navigating regulations and securing funding to adapting in a post-pandemic world. Learn how small business owners can streamline compliance, tap into the latest AI-driven tools, and stay ahead of evolving l...

With a lot of Department of Defense funding headed to Hawaii, this episode dives into the unprecedented opportunity to align federal investment with local workforce development. Host Kara Doles Hughes of Leihoohie is joined by Stephen Sasaki of SACK Defense LLC to explore what kind of defense funding is coming in, where it’s going, and how it could reshape Hawaii’s economy for decades to come. The...

Did you know that the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii founded Aloha United Way back in 1919? To celebrate that enduring partnership and the incredible work AUW continues to do for our community, this episode explores how businesses can support workforce well-being through programs like ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) and AUW’s 211 resource helpline. Guest host Kara Doles Hughes of L...

In this episode, guest host Kara Doles Hughes of Leihoohie sits down with Ed Schultz of Hawaiian Host Group to explore how his company transformed its marketing through viral social media campaigns. Discover the strategies behind creating shareable, emotionally resonant content and how businesses can leverage digital trends to boost brand awareness and audience engagement. This episode is perfect...

As Hawaii’s economy continues to diversify, inclusive workforce development is playing a vital role. In this episode, guest host Unyong Nakata of Nakata Advisory sits down with Rona Yagi Fukumoto of Lanakila Pacific to explore how the organization's job training programs and social enterprises (like Lanakila Kitchen and Meals on Wheels ) are creating opportunities for individuals with disabil...

As Hawaii’s business landscape evolves, strong leadership is becoming more critical than ever. In this episode, host Kara Doles Hughes of Leihoohie sits down with Claudia Crist, President of Kalaukia Enterprises LLC , to explore how evidence-based leadership development strategies are helping organizations build resilience, navigate change, and foster a thriving workplace culture. Their conversati...