Talk Story with Uncle Chuky: The Last Opeluman

Talk Story with Kumu Krista Johnson

Welcome back to the “I tell you” podcast! Today, students interviewed Kumu Krista Johnson. Kumu Krista has been living and working alongside Uncle Chucky for over 30 years. Together, they have taught multiple workshops and are leaders in their community for stewardship of Kealakekua Bay. On this episode, Kumu Krista talks about her favorite memories fishing with Uncle Chucky, and her experience as a paddler. Mahalo for being here!

Talk Story with Uncle Chuky: The Last Opeluman

Welcome back to the “I tell you” podcast! We have two very special guests today, please welcome Uncle Chucky Kealoha Leslie and Kumu Krista Johnson! Uncle Chucky is a traditional fisherman born and raised in Nāpoʻopoʻo and still lives there to this day. He also makes all his own fish nets, an essential but also, unfortunately, a dying cultural tradition. On this episode, Uncle Chucky talks about his favorite childhood memories growing up in Nāpoʻopoʻo, how he became a fisherman and learned to make net, and some of his most memorable ghost stories and shark encounters. Stay tuned for our next episode when we interview his wife, Kumu Krista Johnson. Mahalo!

Perpetuating ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi with Kumu Pīkī Hayward

On this week’s podcast, students interviewed Kumu Pīkī Hayward, Hawaiian language teacher of 20 years at Ke Kula ‘o ‘Ehunuikaimalino. On this episode, Kumu Pīkī talks with the students entirely in ‘Ōlelo Hawai’i about how he became a Hawaiian language teacher, the different dialects of ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, how language adapts over time, and tips to improve your Hawaiian language skills (even if you have to talk to your dog for practice). Kumu Pīkī also shares his experience paddling and as a coach. He also discusses his time as a new Vice Princpal and how his main goal is to relationships with the whole school community. Mahalo to Kumu Pīkī for being our very first guest and helping us connect to our mission of highlighting Kānaka ʻŌiwi and perpetuating ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi. Stay tuned for our next episode!

Mele Manaka

On our second episode, the hosts of the "I tell you" Podcast discuss Mele Manaka, or Merrie Monarch. They discuss different types of hula, and the food/shopping at the Arts and Crafts Fair.

Night Marchers

On our first episode, the hosts of "I tell you" podcast talk about their different experiences with Night Marchers in Hawaiʻi Island. Night marchers are ghosts of fallen warriors that protect sacred places that carry mana, or power.