The Kupunawiki's Podcast

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 10/31/2026 | Aaron shared his journey from working in the hotel industry to becoming the Executive Chef at Palolo Chinese Home. He discussed how his team prepares healthy, enjoyable meals for kupuna while following USDA guidelines, working closely with their dietitian, and meeting Department of Health requirements. Aaron also highlighted the variety of meals they offer, from Italian favorites to vegetarian options and meals for individuals with special dietary needs. He shared the story behind Palolo Chinese Home’s Meal-To-Go program, explaining how it helps kupuna access complete, nutritious meals at home. He also discussed the program’s meal options, pricing, and delivery services, along with his team’s continued commitment to providing quality food and care for the community.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 10/24/2026 | Dr. Cullen shared his professional journey, including his experience teaching in Japan and how he transitioned into supporting adult day care programs. He discussed how healthcare continues to evolve, with changing community needs and new challenges that require thoughtful solutions and collaboration. Dr. Cullen also offered insights into Hawai‘i’s current healthcare landscape, highlighting the different levels of care available and the importance of supporting not only kupuna but also the caregivers and professionals who serve them. Through his experience and perspective, he helped listeners better understand the evolving needs of senior care and the importance of building a stronger support system for Hawai‘i’s community.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 10/17/2026 | Gary shared how The Caregiver Foundation supports seniors, individuals with disabilities, caregivers, and families through services and community resources. He reflected on how caregiving has been a meaningful part of his life and career, shaping his understanding of the challenges families face while caring for their loved ones. Gary also discussed his educational work and community workshops, where he shares practical guidance and helpful strategies for caregivers. He highlighted the importance of understanding life after caregiving, adjusting our perspective, and learning how to navigate the changes that come with this journey. Through his experiences and insights, Gary offered encouragement and practical wisdom to help caregivers and families find their way through the challenges of caregiving and beyond.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 10/10/2026 | Dr. Wee shared her journey as a Pediatrician and author, including her latest workbook and the inspiration behind her work with children, families, and the wider community. She discussed how she began writing books and sharing her blog during the COVID-19 pandemic, offering encouragement and practical guidance that helped people navigate challenging times. Dr. Wee emphasized the importance of gratitude, teaching children healthy habits, and encouraging family members to pursue activities they enjoy. She also highlighted the role of quality sleep in supporting the body’s recovery and overall well-being. Through her experiences, she reminded listeners that healthy living begins with being mindful of our own needs, building positive daily habits, and extending those practices to our families and communities.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 10/03/2026 | Rachael shared her journey as a gerontologist, from starting her blog to turning her experiences into a book and eventually building her professional practice. She discussed what it is like to care for someone living with dementia and how understanding a person’s background can help caregivers provide more compassionate, personalized support. Rachael shared practical approaches for daily care, including creative activity boxes, maintaining consistent routines, acknowledging small accomplishments, and encouraging meaningful interaction to help reduce loneliness. She also emphasized that asking for help is important and that dementia care requires hands-on, human connection and guidance from people who understand the unique needs of each individual.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 09/26/2026 | Anna shared her journey from nursing to becoming Director of Assisted Living & Memory Support at Hi‘olani Care Center at Kahala Nui. Inspired by caring for her grandparents, she emphasized the importance of making residents feel heard, respected, and supported. Anna also discussed the sensitive nature of memory care, the importance of carefully understanding each resident’s needs, and helping both residents and families through the transition with compassion and reassurance.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 09/19/2026 | Allen shares how he became a supervisor at Cacal Carehomes, which has been serving Hawaii for over 40 years in Waipahu. Surrounded by lush greenery, offering a peaceful environment for Kupuna to age in comfort. He explains how the care home feels like a real home, welcoming residents with warmth and home-cooked meals, including Filipino dishes. Allen also talks about caring for Kupuna, the cost of services, and the requirements for opening a care home in Hawaii. He adds that some Kupuna can stay in their own homes with help from registered ARCH caregivers, and despite caregiver shortages, they continue to support Kupuna with compassion.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 09/12/2026 | Mark Tsuda shared his journey from hospitality to healthcare and his role in helping establish ʻIlima at Leihano. He discussed the growing need for senior care in Hawai‘i, the rising costs of assisted living, and what families can expect from senior communities, including accommodations, meals, and supportive services. Mark also shared practical insights on choosing the right care early, noting that the right support can help prevent more intensive needs later. He also highlighted programs and resources that can help kupuna and families plan for future care.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 09/05/2026 | Darlene shared the history and mission of Palolo Chinese Home, which has served Hawai‘i’s community since 1896. She highlighted their services supporting kupuna aging in place, including home care, home modifications, and grant assistance to help families manage care costs. Darlene also discussed Hawai‘i’s healthcare and caregiver shortages and the importance of training caregivers to meet the growing medical and social needs of kupuna. She also shared details about their upcoming 130th Anniversary Celebration on November 14, 2026.

KupunaWiki Radio Show Episode 08/29/2026 | Damian shared his journey as a therapist for 26 years and the story behind Thrive for Life. He explained how his experience in therapy led him to bridge the gap between healthcare and construction, using home modifications to help kupuna live safely and independently at home. His team assesses each client’s needs and works with insurance providers, medical assistance programs, and trusted vendors to create personalized solutions from start to finish. Damian also emphasized educating families, planning ahead, and making the home work for every stage of life—before a situation becomes an emergency.