The Kupunawiki's Podcast

05/30/2026 | Kevin Shiinoki | President of Legacy Works

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 05/30/26 | Kevin shared the role of LegacyWorks as a trusted third-party resource that helps individuals and families navigate important financial and fiduciary matters. He discussed his transition into becoming a professional trustee and his passion for helping clients manage and protect their financial affairs. He explained the services LegacyWorks provides, how the trustee process works, and key factors families should consider when selecting a trustee. With nine years of industry experience, he emphasized the importance of making informed decisions and maintaining transparency to ensure financial matters are handled responsibly and in the best interests of all involved. He also addressed the growing concern of financial abuse in Hawai‘i and shared practical ways families can reduce risk, promote open communication, and avoid conflicts when managing financial responsibilities.

05/23/2026 | Ty Tirpak | Financial Advisor in Ameriprise Financial Services

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 05/23/26 | Ty shared his journey from becoming a CPA to serving as a Financial Advisor with Ameriprise Financial Services for the past eight years. He spoke about the meaningful work his team does behind the scenes to help families in the community navigate important financial decisions. For Ty, supporting clients goes beyond finances, it is a calling built on trust and personal connection. He helps families plan for retirement, navigate multigenerational financial decisions, and create strategies tailored to their unique goals. Ty also explained the different types of retirement accounts and financial “buckets” used to organize savings and investments, helping kupuna and families make informed decisions while feeling supported every step of the way.

05/16/2026 | Troy Wada | CEO and Founder of INPAC Wealth Solutions

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 05/16/26 | Troy shared his journey growing up on Kaua‘i in a family business, First Express, often referred to as the “Tiny Costco of Kaua‘i.” Although he was raised in the family business, his passion for finance led him to begin a career in financial planning nearly 17 years ago. He spoke about what inspired him to help families navigate important financial decisions and build long-term security. Troy discussed tax strategies that can benefit families, including the role of DSTs (Delaware Statutory Trusts) in wealth preservation and future planning, especially for those involved in real estate. He explained both the benefits and risks that come with these investment strategies, along with topics such as taxation, depreciation, retirement, Medicare, and ERMAA. Through the conversation, Troy emphasized the importance of education, preparation, and understanding financial options to help kupuna and families create a more secure future.

05/09/2026 | Jason Segawa | Certified Financial Planner & Owner of Segawa Consulting

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 05/09/26 | Jason shared his journey of becoming a Certified Financial Planner and building his own financial planning firm over the past 14 years. He explained the important role financial planners play in helping individuals and families navigate complex financial decisions while staying current in an ever-changing industry. He also discussed the high cost of living in Hawai‘i, especially rising medical expenses and long-term care costs, and how proper planning can help families make informed financial choices. He emphasized the importance of simplicity, budgeting, maintaining liquidity, and preserving assets to create long-term financial stability. Jason also highlighted how the ability to continue working and saving can greatly support retirement and help families stay financially secure while living in the islands.

05/02/2026 | Travis Tsukayama | Certified Financial Planner at Andrews Advisory Associates

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 05/02/26 | Travis shared his journey with Andrews Advisory Associates and what inspired him to serve the kupuna community. Driven by a passion for helping others, he focuses on guiding clients through financial planning with care and clarity. He emphasized the importance of working with an experienced financial planner who can address a wide range of needs, especially as financial challenges continue to evolve. Travis also highlighted the value of having a solid plan, building emergency funds, and being prepared for the unexpected to achieve peace of mind. His approach centers on offering thoughtful options while helping clients choose the best path for their individual goals.

04/25/2026 | Dr. Cullen Hayashida, PhD | University of Hawaiʻi Center on Aging and School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 04/25/26 | Dr. Cullen shares his long journey in the medical field, starting in Ohio and continuing his work in Hawaii since 1978. He has dedicated his life to helping the community and finds deep meaning in serving others. He also talks about his book, which focuses on active aging and how people can continue to grow and live a full life as they get older. He shares how some may lose interest in caring for themselves, but with the right mindset and support, healthy aging is possible. Dr. Cullen also discusses the growing aging population in Hawaii and how it is shaping long-term care, while encouraging kupuna to stay active, connected, and supported.

04/18/2026 | Gary Powell | Founder and Executive Director of The Caregiver Foundation

Gary shares how he started a caregiver foundation after seeing a big need for support in Hawaii. His journey began at a young age when he helped care for his grandfather. For the past 19 years, the caregiver foundation has grown into a trusted resource for kupuna. He explains how having a trustworthy caregiver and a third-party support system can help families manage care and finances with less stress while aging with dignity. Gary also shares simple tips on planning ahead and avoiding scams, and talks about the challenges of caregiving in today’s generation.

04/11/2026 | Dr. Theresa Wee | Pediatrician and Author

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 04/11/26 | Dr. Wee shares how she reached 10 years with Walk With A Doc Oʻahu and the hard work it took to get there. Her life experiences helped shape her passion to serve families and kupuna in Oahu. She focuses on guiding the community through simple, healthy habits like walking and better daily living. Every week, she educates and supports others in living a healthier life. She also shares her work as an author and her mission to help people manage obesity through simple steps, including following a new food pyramid for a longer, healthier life.

04/04/2026 | Rachael Wonderlin | Gerontologist, Author and Dementia Care Expert

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 04/04/26 | Rachel shares her journey as a gerontologist who serves communities across the country and was invited to support kupuna in Hawaii. She began her work in dementia care in 2013, which grew into her passion to help and guide others. She is also an author and writes the blog “Dementia by Day,” where she shares real stories from her experiences. Rachel started her consulting practice in 2016, helping families better understand and care for loved ones with dementia. She explains the importance of being gentle, patient, and understanding each person’s reality, especially when they experience confusion over time.

03/28/26 | Mark Tsuda & Clifton Arga | ʻIlima at Leihano

Mark and Clifton share their background and how they started working at ʻIlima at Leihano. They talk about how the community supports kupuna by promoting aging with aloha and making everyone feel welcome. They highlight the Heirloom Program, which helps residents live with dignity, purpose, and joy while staying healthy, active, and engaged. They also explain how their memory care is designed based on each resident’s needs and interests. They share activities like gardening, games, and crafts, and how they keep residents active and involved every day.