Angie Martinez's journey is nothing short of remarkable. From her beginnings as a car salesperson at Mercedes-Benz to wearing the crown as Miss Hawaii United States and Miss United States, Angie's story is a testament to the power of unexpected opportunities and relentless determination. Encouraged by her daughter and a fortuitous recommendation from a customer, Angie entered the world of pageantry with no prior experience and triumphed against all odds. Tune in to hear her inspiring journey, filled with challenges and triumphs, as well as her plans to make a meaningful impact through her advocacy for suicide prevention. The episode also sheds light on Angie's role as a trailblazer in the automotive industry. As one of the few women in a predominantly male field, Angie has shattered stereotypes with her hard-earned expertise and unwavering dedication. Learn about the unique challenges she faces and the strategies she employs to build lasting relationships with clients, proving that exceptional service and integrity go a long way in overcoming barriers and misconceptions. Her story in the automotive world is as captivating as her pageant journey, offering listeners valuable insights into achieving success in unexpected places. Angie's candid reflections on parenting as a single mom and the balancing act of her dual careers enrich her narrative, adding layers of depth to her achievements. Discover how her faith and personal values have guided her through nerve-wracking moments and served as a beacon for others. Through heartfelt anecdotes and a commitment to community involvement, this episode offers an engaging blend of professional triumphs and personal victories, highlighted by Angie's embodiment of the spirit of aloha and her dedication to making a positive impact in both the pageant realm and the world of car sales.

Ever wondered what it was like to be a club celebrity during the MySpace era? Join us as we catch up with Nikki Sotelo, a true icon of Hawaii's vibrant club scene. Nikki takes us back to those unforgettable nights, sharing stories of club nights and the magnetic energy that surrounded her and her friends. Her influence is still felt today, with heartwarming anecdotes from fans who remember her status as a club celebrity. Together, we reminisce about the electric atmosphere of past parties and the evolution of nightlife culture. Our conversation takes a turn as we explore how clubbing has transformed with the rise of social media and dating apps. The dance floors of yesteryear offered a balance of dancing and drinking—a stark contrast to today's digital interactions. We reflect on how this shift affects the younger generation, who now navigate a world where real-life adventures have been swapped for virtual connections. The topic of modern parenting arises, highlighting protective instincts and the challenge of fostering physical social experiences for children in an increasingly digital age. As our discussion unfolds, we delve into the dynamics of parenthood within the club culture. Nikki shares personal insights into parenting challenges and the balancing act between social life and family responsibilities. We touch on how becoming a parent can reshape one's identity, bringing unexpected joy and fulfillment. Insights into building genuine friendships in the nightlife industry are shared, along with stories of support and resilience. We wrap up with the joys of family gatherings and the importance of maintaining meaningful connections, both in and out of the club scene.

We are celebrating four fantastic years of Above the Bridge podcast. This anniversary episode is a journey through the nerve-wracking yet exhilarating experiences that have defined us, from personal bouts and parental pride to hilarious reflections on cleaning rice and the unpredictable art of DJing. These stories, punctuated with laughter and lessons, serve as a reminder of the bittersweet passage of time and the joy found in life's unpredictable rhythms. We reflect on personal growth and gratitude. We emphasize the importance of overcoming fears, embracing personal fulfillment, and cherishing relationships. As we look back on these four years, we're filled with gratitude for the support and community we've built together. It's been a transformative ride, and we invite you to continue this remarkable journey with us as part of our podcast family, where each episode brings new insights, stories, laughter, inspiration and Aloha !

Casey 808, the innovative rapper from Hilo, joins us to share the captivating story behind his distinctive "island urban" sound. His music is a vibrant tapestry woven from reggae, dancehall, hip hop, and R&B influences, drawing inspiration from icons like Bob Marley and Tupac. Casey reveals how he's been able to carve out a unique niche that strikes a chord with fans who crave the fusion of island vibes and urban beats. By experimenting with new sounds, he's breaking genre boundaries and redefining what it means to create music that resonates across diverse audiences. Throughout our conversation, Casey reflects on the impact of technological advancements on his musical journey, from the early days of tapes to today's digital platforms. His passion for music was sparked at a tender age by freestyling friends and a DJ neighbor, setting him on a path of continuous growth and collaboration. Casey shares the importance of balancing originality with collaboration, discussing enriching partnerships with producers like Kanan and artists like J Boog and Baby Bash. These collaborations not only foster creative growth but also highlight the pivotal role of networking in the music industry. We also dive into the global influence of Hawaii's music scene and the integral role of social media in amplifying local talent to a worldwide audience. Casey sheds light on the challenges faced by independent artists versus those signed to labels, emphasizing the importance of hard work and strategic choices. The episode culminates with a discussion on the rewarding experience of mentoring young Hawaiian talent and establishing a new music label that prioritizes fair partnerships. This episode encapsulates the vibrant, evolving landscape of music and the significance of forging genuine connections both in music and business.

Join us as we chat with Chris Lomboy, the spirited host of "The Relationship Method" podcast. Chris takes us through his serendipitous plunge into podcasting, starting from his initial stint as a hesitant co-host on "More Than a Uniform" to launching his own show that champions personal growth and relationships. His journey is a testament to the power of overcoming self-doubt, leaning on the encouragement of friends and family, and embracing the support of an ever-growing listener base. In our converstaion , Chris and I unravel the art of podcasting, from creating an engaging atmosphere with guests to navigating the cultural nuances of Hawaiian life after a move from California. We delve into the hilarious and heartfelt stories that come from asking personal questions while respecting boundaries to keep our guests comfortable. We also share some of the craziest moments and memorable learning experiences that come with fitting into a new community and understanding local dialects. We wrap up with a deep dive into modern parenting, discussing everything from generational discipline differences to the challenges posed by social media. Hear about Chris’s humorous adventures as a single dad and the unique ways he’s handled sensitive topics with his daughters. We also reminisce about favorite childhood cartoons and quirky pet peeves, adding a dash of nostalgia and laughter to our conversation. This episode is a rollercoaster of emotions, insights, and fun that you won't want to miss!

Discover the secrets to strong relationships and entrepreneurial success with our special guests, Cherise & Ranson Ho. Celebrating 16 years together and nine years of marriage, they reveal the keys to sustaining love and partnership while managing a thriving business. We reminisce about their journey from memorable nights out to momentous life events, including the heartwarming story of their engagement. Get ready for an inspiring deep dive into the world of Risi Resins, where creativity meets strategic planning. Cherise & Ranson share how they built their crafting business from the ground up, discussing the vital role of having the right equipment and leveraging each other's strengths. From overcoming hurdles to mastering sublimation printing, their journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and teamwork. Listen as they unpack the importance of networking at craft fairs and the unique challenges and rewards of running a family-operated venture. Join us as we explore the vibrant world of craft fairs with Cherise & Ranson, highlighting their experiences at the Made in Hawaii craft fair and their ambitions to expand beyond the islands. Learn about the logistical challenges of participating in large events, the joys of supporting local artisans, and the emotional rewards of connecting with the community. With an eye on future growth, they discuss potential markets on the mainland and other Hawaiian islands, sharing their dreams and strategies for taking Risi Resins to new heights. Tune in for an episode filled with passion, creativity, and invaluable insights for any aspiring entrepreneur.

Ever wondered how a local boy from Waianae, West Side, Hawaii transformed into a social media sensation? Join us in this electrifying episode featuring Ray Maraj, as he opens up about his journey from working at the Waianae Boys and Girls Club to captivating audiences on TikTok and Instagram. Ray shares his inspiring story of navigating the pandemic's challenges, which pushed him to engage with kids virtually and eventually led to his viral success. He sheds light on how he balanced multiple jobs, returned to school, and now, in 2024, is fully committed to his social media journey once again. We dive deep into the life of Ray Maraj, discussing everything from the quirks of local celebrity status in a small Hawaiian community to the nostalgia of childhood antics like chasing the Manapua man and slipper throwing. Ray candidly talks about the dichotomy of being an extroverted introvert and how alcohol can sometimes bring out one's true self. His reflections on the impact of social media on personal interactions and the unique experience of being recognized in his hometown offer a fascinating glimpse into the life of a local influencer. This episode also unpacks the nuts and bolts of growing a following on TikTok and Instagram, with Ray sharing valuable insights on finding a niche, using hashtags effectively, and the unpredictability of viral content. As we wrap up, Ray addresses pressing issues like community violence and the need for genuine leadership, adding a heartfelt layer to an already captivating discussion. Don't miss out on this vibrant conversation filled with personal stories, practical advice, and thoughtful reflections.

Ever wondered how anime and cosplay could reshape an entire community? Join us for an exhilarating episode where we sit down with Alli O., a night industry manager and passionate cosplayer, who reveals the transformative impact of anime culture in Hawaii. Ali opens up about her unique journey, balancing the vibrant nightlife scene with her love for cosplay, and how platforms like TikTok and IG have been instrumental in this cultural phenomenon. Hear firsthand about the magnetic pull of characters like Luffy from "One Piece" and the unexpected ways they've influenced fans around the globe. Get ready to rediscover the magic of classic anime series such as Fruits Basket, Naruto, Jujutsu Kaisen, and Inuyasha. Ali and I share the joys and hurdles of DIY costume creation and the heartwarming inclusivity found at anime conventions. Whether you're an introvert or extrovert, the sense of belonging and newfound confidence that comes from participating in these events is truly inspiring. We also dive deep into how nerd culture has become more visible and accepted, with personal anecdotes that underscore the universal appeal of anime and manga. Alli brings her expertise in content creation to the table, offering insights into the stark contrasts between TikTok and Instagram. From TikTok's user-friendly randomness to Instagram's curated perfection, we break down the pros and cons of each platform. Explore the addictive nature of Pokémon Go, the art of anime tattoos, and the camaraderie found in local bar scenes and softball teams. Alli also talks about her aspirations in the cosplay world and the importance of visibility and collaboration within the anime community. Don't miss our lively discussion packed with revealing stories and valuable takeaways!

What happens when you combine the aloha spirit with a fierce determination to uplift the houseless community in Hawaii? Join us as we sit down with Jesse Jones from To The Top Hawaii, a non-profit committed to ending houselessness and nurturing strong community bonds. Jesse shares his real-life experiences, from the gritty work of distributing leftover food to helping individuals acquire crucial identification documents. We get an inside look why personal engagement is crucial for making a difference. Ever wondered how local initiatives like night markets can prevent houselessness by keeping the local economy thriving? We explore this fascinating topic with Jesse, delving into the delicate balance between community projects and personal endeavors. Learn about the incredible role of mentors, teamwork, and logistics in making events such as night markets a success. We also address the changing nature of the aloha spirit among Hawaii's youth and the need for reinforcing positive values and examples. In our heartfelt conversation, you'll hear stories of hope and resilience, emphasizing the power of small acts of kindness and the value of community support. From the importance of empowering youth to the challenges faced by families trying to secure housing, Jesse and I discuss it all. Plus, we talk about the emotional toll of community work and the significance of self-care to maintain a positive outlook amidst challenges. This episode is a testament to the power of collective effort, personal engagement, and the enduring spirit of aloha.