Talk Story with Aunty Piilani

Episode 26: Kitchen Magic

In this episode, Aunty Piilani shares a series of close calls from her catering days in Eaton Rapids. With the help (and occasional chaos) of her employees, she recounts a handful of unforgettable situations that could have ended in disaster, but didn’t, thanks to a little quick thinking, a lot of experience, and what she likes to call her magic. It’s a glimpse behind the scenes of events that guests thought were seamless… and the reality that was anything but. You'll have to listen to find out, but let's just say that we almost called this one Don't Let Jeff Drive.

Episode 25: The Call of the Kitchen

In this episode, Aunty Piilani begins her Michigan chapter, starting in Lansing and adjusting to a completely different life, climate and pace before eventually making her way to Eaton Rapids. But once she gets into the kitchen, things pick up. We hear about the early days of Piilani’s Restaurant and Catering, her high standards for her staff, and the reputation she was determined to build — even if it meant she felt like she was "Lady Gordon Ramsay.” And yes, this is the episode featuring the infamous pineapple incident. It’s a quiet start with flashes of the fire to come in our next episode.

Episode 24: Michigan Marriage

In this episode, Aunty Piilani tells the story of meeting Paul, the man who would become her fourth and final husband. What begins as a chance encounter while she’s working as a tour guide quickly turns into something much bigger. Swept up by persistence, charm, and more than a little sparkle, she makes a series of fast, life-changing decisions. Within weeks, loose ends are tied, bags are packed, and she leaves Hawaiʻi for Michigan, beginning a chapter that would last more than three decades. It’s a story of momentum, risk, and the moments that quietly reroute an entire life — with a few surprises best left uncovered by listening.

Episode 23: Waikiki Years Part 2: Vice

⚠️ Content Warning: This episode contains discussion of sexual assault, adult themes, and crime. Listener discretion is advised. In The Waikīkī Years, Part 2, Aunty Piilani concludes a turbulent chapter marked by loss, survival, and hard lessons. She reflects on the aftermath of a failed marriage, dangerous relationships, and experiences she never expected to face. Along the way, she recalls pieces of Waikīkī nightlife from the era, including drag performers and Hula’s Bar & Lei Stand. For privacy, the name of one individual has been intentionally replaced with a duck quack.

Episode 22: Christmas Talk Story

In this Christmas episode, Aunty Piilani shares memories of the holidays in Keaukaha, from the traditions of her childhood to the years when she was raising her own family. She reflects on how Christmas has changed over time and what the season means to her now. Along the way, she sings a few beloved Christmas songs and sends heartfelt holiday greetings to friends and family, making this episode a fun and nostalgic pause in the story.