Hey parents, do you know what your kid is playing? A new report by the Entertainment Software Association reveals video games are the #1 requested holiday gift for kids. It's not just boys, 67% of girls are now asking for video game related gifts. Aubrey Quinn, Senior Vice President of the ESA joins us with tips for parents to ensure the video games they buy are age appropriate and safe.

There's a lot of excitement for Kauai's first public charter school on the north shore! Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg donated $1.5 million to the Namahana Education Foundation. Namahana School leaders, a prospective student and parent join Stephanie Lum as they share plans for the school that has been 10 years in the making.

Organizers say a kamaaina holiday tradition will be bigger and better this year! The 35th annual Islandwide Crafts & Food expo features locally made products by more than 250 vendors on Black Friday weekend at the Blaisdell. The expo started in 1987 by the late Caroline Infante. Her daughter Esme explains how she and her siblings are now carrying on the beloved Hawaii holiday event on the Muthaship podcast on our website.

A former criminal and drug addict is about to embark on a tough physical challenge. Kekoa Carvalho of Kapolei, who is now a social media star says he's doing it to send a message of hope, love and aloha to troubled teens.

We've surpassed our 200th episode of 'Muthaship'! To celebrate, we're taking you back to the humble beginnings with Steph, Brooke and Noli's very first podcast episode! Thank you for enjoying the ride with us! Here's to many more uplifting conversations and adventures!

Three women returned to Hawaii with a new ultra marathon title! Melanie Koehl, Kelly Sutcliffe and Sara Santilli ran a grueling 81 miles in 23 hours and 52 minutes! They took first place in the all women's team category in the Badwater Salton Sea race in Southern California. Hear all about their adventures on 'Muthaship' and how they managed to conquer the 81-mile course!

A Campbell High School senior's award-winning video project is raising awareness of teenage mental health struggles. Chauncey Viernes' video is about a boy who feels unattractive and works up the courage to shatter his self-doubt. The 17-year-old from Ewa Beach talks about his creative process and has helpful advice for fellow teens.

Hawaii's teacher of the year Jackie Freitas joins us on 'Muthaship'! Leilehua High School's natural resources teacher for 13 years is so loved by her students, staff and community, they all call her "Aunty Jackie"! Steph, Brooke and Noli quickly learn why the dedicated and passionate educator is so deserving of the prestigious recognition.

A 16-year-old boy from Hauula is helping students pay their college tuition by recycling bottles and cans. As the founder of the non-profit "Bottles 4 college",  Genshu Price has awarded over $20,000 in scholarships! Price was also named a Prudential Emerging Visionary winner for inspiring young people to make a positive difference. He shares his motivation to help struggling students and invites the younger generation to join in the efforts. Listen now on our Hawaii News Now website or find 'Muthaship' wherever you get your podcasts!

Newly crowned Miss Hawaii USA Breea Yamat joins us on "Muthaship" this week! The 27-year-old from Lahaina, Maui shares the challenges she overcame in her personal journey to the crown and what she's doing now to prepare for the Miss USA pageant in August! Listen to our conversation now on our website or find "Muthaship" wherever you get your podcasts!

Get ready for a podcast collab with the muthas and the guys from HiSessions! Steph, Brooke and Noli join Hawaii musician and HiSessions cofounder Jon Yamasato, radio personality Devon Nekoba and HiLife Clothing founder Kyle Shimabukuro at their 9th Avenue recording studio. The group stir up crazy college memories and reflect on life now as parents raising kids caught up in technology, social media and devices. Listen now to 'Muthaship' on our Hawaii News Now website or find it wherever you get your podcasts!

This week, we're learning about spiritual alchemy and how finding and maintaining a balance in mind, body and spirit is key to your health and wellness. We're joined by fellow mom and spiritual alchemist Mia Iida on 'Muthaship'!

Rick Agan's sports photos are described as gritty, action-packed and intense. The owner of Takoeye Sports Photography shares how a combination of "dad instinct" and his love for sports sparked his newfound passion. 

Don't let your fears paralyze you or become an obstacle. In this week's episode, Steph, Noli and Brooke discuss ways to free yourself from all the worries and emotions that come with some of your greatest fears.

As we get older, how can we age gracefully? Naturopathic Doctor Stacie Han joins us with tips for healthy female aging. The Punahou graduate owns and operates Gaia Naturopathic and Acupuncture Clinic in San Diego and has been practicing for 14 years.

During this Surrogacy Awareness Month, we're joined by Big Island mom Ashley Mareko, who brought four babies into the world as a surrogate. As the director of SurrogateFirst, Mareko says she's also constantly working to make the surrogacy industry ethical and safe.

Lights, camera, action! With more movie and TV productions popping up in Hawaii, actresses Joan Powers of Kaneohe and Kyla Hee of Honolulu join us with what it takes to break into the industry, tips to nail an audition and more. While acting may look glamourous, both say, it’s takes a lot of work. Listen now to ‘Muthaship’ on our website or find it wherever you get your podcasts.

Robyn Tagavilla remembers getting the call she described as a parent’s worst nightmare. Her baby daughter Ashli fell through the railing of a 4th floor apartment unit in Nuuanu. Doctors gave a grim outlook. 19 years later, an emotional Tagavilla says her daughter is a living miracle. Listen to ‘Muthaship’ now on our website or find it wherever you get your podcasts.

Hawaii's Laura Blears broke barriers riding waves! She was the first woman to compete in a men's surfing event in 1973, the first woman to win a check at a professional contest at Sunset Beach and the number one ranked female surfer in the aloha state and the world in the 70's. The surfing pioneer shares her memories growing up in Waikiki, being featured in Playboy Magazine and advice on parenting as a proud mother and grandma. 

Raising teenagers, life after death and finding your natural high. An in depth conversation by the "muthas" Brooke, Noli and Steph in this week's podcast. Listen to 'Muthaship' now on our website or find it wherever you get your podcasts!

Following your heart and knowing where you’re from is a central theme in the story of Chris Walch. She grew up in Hawaii, but felt a longing to learn more about her father’s upbringing in Austria. So Walch came up with a plan and decided to leave her comfort zone of sunny beaches for the freezing cold ski slopes of Austria.The major life change took lots of courage and determination. It’s a decision the Iolani grad does not regret. Walch is now a CEO of a female empowerment company, ski instructor, philanthropist and entrepreneur.

As we welcome the Lunar New Year of the Dragon, we talk story with Chu Lan Shubert Kwock, president of the Chinatown Business and Community Association. Kwock is widely known in the community for her work to preserve and revitalize Honolulu's Chinatown and the neighborhoods around it.

As women and mothers, we know how important it is to have a village and system in place to support you when welcoming a child. This week, we're shining the spotlight on the Mary Jane Home. It's a safe place where teenagers and women experiencing an unplanned pregancy can get help. Jennie Heleski of Catholic Charities Hawaii shares more about the program that's been around since 1977.

Entrepreneur, motivational speaker and author Sarah McFarland joins us to talk about her best-selling book "Get Up Girl! Release Your Roar! Empowering Women in the Era of Barbie." McFarland explains how she discovered her true potential and offers ways for women to do the same, including how to discover one's true identity in a world filled with stereotypes, rise from failures and overcome obstacles and set healthy boundaries in professional settings.

We're delving into Japanese vegan cuisine with vegan chef and author Lillian Cumic! The healthy cook lived in Japan for three years. She explains how you can transform your favorite dishes into vegan versions and talks about some of the plant-based and gluten-free recipes she developed in her newly released cookbook "Hawaii Washoku."

Are you getting enough sleep? If you aren't catching those zzzz's you're not alone. A recent study found Hawaii is one of the most sleep deprived states. Worries about finances due to Hawaii's high cost of living and sleep apnea are some of the things keeping us awake. Dr. Ronson Sato, the lead physician for the Kuakini Pulmonary Sleep Center joins us with tips on how to get a more restful sleep.

For most parents, it’s a battle against screen time when it comes to kids and social media.Family therapist Britt Young, of Xplor Counseling, talks about the dangers of too much exposure to devices and offers steps parents can take to protect their children from the damaging effects.

A Big Island woman is sharing her amazing survival story. Danielle McKim of Hilo says she nearly died from a rare Flesh-Eating Disease known as Necrotizing Fasciitis. She now wants to raise awareness about the potentially deadly bacteria and joins us along with her doctor Crystal Hammer, an emergency medicine specialist at the Queen's Medical Center.

Are you ready to take the cold plunge? Pharmacist, fitness and nutrition enthusiast Alyssa Furukawa explains the health benefits of submersing yourself into freezing water for short periods of time. The 2022 journal Sports Medicine found cold plunges reduced inflammation and helped with the body's recovery after intense workouts. First-timers should consult with their doctor first before doing a cold plunge.

A love story on the Big Island. High school sweethearts Ka'ohao Boteilho and Cassidy Keli'i kept overcoming the odds to start a family.

Two Hawaii women who beat oral cancer are sharing their survival stories in hopes of saving lives. More than 100 people will be diagnosed with oral cancer each day in the US and one person dies from oral cancer every hour. Shelby Watkins and Joanne Ebesu urge those concerned to seek free screenings and explain the signs and symptoms, risk factors and treatments. Listen now on 'Muthaship' on our Hawaii News Now website or find it wherever you get your podcasts.

Dr. Elizabeth Ignacio is breaking barriers. She is proud to be a woman orthopedic surgeon, since 94% of the world's orthopedists are male, and throughout her career, she has had the privilege of taking care of world-renowned professional athletes, medaled Olympians and Paralympians, world and national champions, and NCAA Division 1 athletes. The Iolani and Georgetown University graduate is also a Mindset and Well-Being Coach, believing that the pinnacle of healthcare is the idea of Cura Personalis – care for the whole person, in mind, body and spirit. Listen as she explains how to find your divine within.

An early childhood educator wants to help children who may be sad, scared or worried after the tragic Maui wildfires. Honolulu Community College professor Elizabeth Hartline created a short story called "There was a Fire" for children 3 to 8-years-old. She says the images of the devastation may be difficult for young kids to process and getting them to talk about their feelings is the first step to healing. Listen now to the 'Muthaship' wherever you get your podcasts.

As keiki head back to DOE schools, they can look forward to the "Choose Aloha" Program! Dawn O'Brien spearheads the curriculum which teaches students in over 300 Hawaii schools to choose love, not hate. She is also the author of two children's books which focuses on preventing bullying "Aloha Allova: A Sacred Secret to Save the Day" and "Aloha Always Wins!" Listen now on our website or find 'Muthaship' wherever you get your podcasts! 

A young former Ewa Beach resident is halfway through his national Broadway tour! 9-year-old Milo Maharlika has been wowing crowds in the musical Les Miserables! Milo and his dad talk about their new life in Los Angeles, California and Milo's path to the bright lights of Broadway. Listen now on our website or search for 'Muthaship' wherever you get your podcasts.

Does the thought of speaking in front of people make you nervous? Charen Kepler of Hawaii Toastmasters offers some tips to help you get over your fear and fun exercises so you can feel better talking in front of crowds! 

Ever dreamed of owning a home or a condo but didn't know where to start? Caron Ling is one of Hawai'i's top real estate experts and shares the first steps to take to help make your dream a reality. Listen now on our website or find 'Muthaship' wherever you get your podcasts!

Major movie director Destin Daniel Cretton and costume designer Joy Cretton join us on 'Muthaship'! The brother and sister from Haiku, Maui talk about their path to success in Hollywood, working and mingling with Oscar-award-winning stars, their past and present film projects and what they miss most about Hawaii. Listen now on our Hawaii News Now website or find 'Muthaship' wherever you get your podcasts!

Before Nanci Kreidman started the Domestic Violence Action Center in Hawaii in 1990, there were few places for victims to get help. The non-proft started with a staff of just two people. Today, there are 50 employees dedicated to continuing critical services and programs. Kreidman reflects on the progress made over the years and the challenges as she retires from DVAC and hands over the reins. Listen now on our website or find 'Muthaship' wherever you get your podcasts.

Mid-Pacific School students say educators should embrace artificial intelligence, not fear it. They were recently invited to speak at a national virtual workshop to show school leaders and tech eductors how they use AI, specifically Chat GPT, ethically and responsibly in the classroom. Listen now on our website or find 'Muthaship' wherever you get your podcasts!

This week, we're exploring ways to fine-tune a child's skills with two powerhouse basketball coaches. Dean Shimamoto coached the Iolani high school boys basketball team for 10 seasons and led them through three state championship titles and four ILH crowns. He and Josh Benton are the head coaches of "Takeover", one of the top youth club boys basketball teams in Hawaii. Both are also proud dads. Dean and Josh share their coaching philosophies and personal approach to bringing out the best in young athletes and offer advice to parents who are trying to navigate the competitive field of youth sports.

This week on "Muthaship," Honolulu police veteran Sgt. Barbara Delaforce talks about what it's like juggling motherhood with the duties of a police officer. The mom of four says there are definite dangers on the job but explains why she has chosen to stay committed to the force she has been serving with for more than 20 years.

These days you’ve probably heard a recession is looming, inflation is rising or our nation is headed towards a debt default. What does this all mean and how will this impact our finances? Joining us this week is Dayna Matsumoto, group senior vice president and director of finance and accounting at Central Pacific Bank. Matsumoto has 20 years of accounting, audit, and finance experience. She breaks down the current financial situation and what we can do to protect and further our financial wellbeing.

Highly skilled, culinary master chef Jon Matsubara is "feasting" on his exciting win on Food Network's "Alex vs America"! The owner of "Feast" restaurant in Manoa Valley has been cooking since 1997. He started as a dish washer for Chef Roy Yamaguchi, then learned from the best chefs in New York. Matsubara excels in elevating Hawaii comfort food using locally grown ingredients. He shares what went on behind the scenes of the hit cooking TV show, his journey to becoming a successful top chef and offers advice for those looking to get their big break in the culinary industry.

May is mental health awareness month. It's easy to get caught up in the daily grind but so important to keep track of your and your loved ones' mental health. Recent statistics show more teenagers, especially teenage girls are struggling with depression. Keli Acquaro, acting administrator for the Department of Health's Child & Adolescent Mental Health Division, says it is key for parents to discuss the importance of mental health with their children. She also explains where to get help and how parents can show support, raise awareness, and break the stigma and judgements about people experiencing mental illness.

It's Mother's Day week! Thank you moms and moms at heart for all you do! Back by popular demand, join Brooke, Noli and Steph as they relive their journeys to motherhood in their very first episode..."Meet the Muthas!"

Tonight we are shining the spotlight on 8-year-old singing sensation Kyra Pesebre from Ewa Beach! You may know her from her recent national anthem performance at the UH men's volleyball game. Kyra's rich vocals and aloha touched so many in the audience that night. Turns out, the young and talented singer has also graced the stage both nationally and internationally! Kyra hopes her songs will spread joy and inspire everyone to be kind to each another and work together to help make the world a better place. Listen now to 'Muthaship' on our website or find it wherever you get your podcasts!

April is Sexual Assault Awareness month. The CDC says more than 50% of women and almost 1 in 3 men experience sexual violence during their lifetime. Lynn Costales Matsuoka, the executive director of the Sex Assault Treatment Center, joins “Muthaship” this week to talk about the importance of education.  The 24-hour hotline is 808-524-7273.

We knew local comedian Zavier Cummings (aka @howdisguy) before he was famous. Now, he's make people laugh on a much bigger stage. In this episode, the Kauai native shares how he's managed to strike a chord with fans of all ages with his hilarious skits and classic characters.

Marie Akisawa is the author of "Eating the Shokuiku Way: The Japanese Guide to Raising Kids with Healthy Food Habits." The chef and nutritionist explains how the Japanese-style of eating only until you're 80% full and eating mindfully can lead to healthier food choices and portions.