S1E2 Kealoha: The Fusion Reaction Between Science and Slam Poetry

S2E3 Johnny Helm: Settling In To Being Me

Lokahi Backstage with Jamie Ann Blakeman brings you another honest, wide-open conversation—this time with musician, producer, and two-time Emmy winner Johnny Helm, joined by co-host Hawaiian Ryan. Johnny was born in Hartford, Connecticut, went to college, and entered adulthood caught in a cycle of drugs, alcohol, and undiagnosed OCD. Intrusive thoughts became overwhelming, and drinking felt like the only way out. His sister eventually helped him break free by encouraging him to move to Hawaii—aninvitation that shifted the course of his life. InHawaii, Johnny worked a mix of jobs, including a stretch at Coffee Talk, where he ended up marrying the owner. He later landed at a radio studio, where he learned the power of going the extra mile and building habits that would shape his creative future. It’s also where he stopped partying for good, choosing sobriety at the same time he stepped into the role of Production Director.   A free gig turned into a long-running paid gig at Tiki’s. Years of performing followed, along with two Emmys for his scoring work with Hawaiian Airlines. But under everything, Johnny carried a quiet dream: to be a singer-songwriter. For years, he felt self-conscious about his voice and played small, hiding in thebackground.  Now, after a journey filled with detours, lessons, and a long list of people who helped him along the way, Johnny is finally stepping into his own sound. “I’m getting there,” he says. “Settling into being me.” This episode is a candid look at recovery, creativity, and becoming who you’ve always been—one honest step at a time.

S1E2 Kealoha: The Fusion Reaction Between Science and Slam Poetry

Episode 2 of Lōkahi Backstage Season 2 with Kealoha  is LIVE! 🎙️ Jamie and Ryan sit down with Kealoha and strike up a conversation about ethnicity and identity… which somehow turns into a comparison involving mustard. Yes—mustard. Don’t ask how. Just know it makes a funny amount of sense!

S1E1 Hawaiian Ryan: Lokahi Backstage in the Islands

In this episode, Jamie sits down with the legendary Hawaiian Ryan—a Japanese/Chinese/Hawaiian creative who proudly identifies as someone who’s never been easy to categorize. You might know him as the Ryan from The Sam and Ryan Show on 93.9 The Beat, or as the guy who’s been making Hawaii laugh for more than three decades through radio, comedy, music, and the occasional questionable life choice. From bombing math tests in 1990 and disappointing his Asian father, to placing in Brown Bags to Stardom, to winning a Hawaii Music Award for his debut comedy album, to hosting TV shows, to surviving mainland radio and running back home—Ryan’s career has been one big loop of reinvention and full-circle moments. But the real heart of this episode goes far deeper. Jamie and Ryan dive into pivot mode—what it means to adapt, stay curious, and keep yourself in a constant state of learning. They talk about why there’s no wrong way to do things, how interruptions in conversation can actually reveal the most real moments, and why stepping out of your comfort zone is supposed to feel, well, uncomfortable! They explore the artistic life, the myth of “safe vs. risky,” and how redefining both can open up entirely new paths. Most importantly, they circle back to the foundation of every journey: staying true to your roots, even as you grow beyond them. This episode is honest, hilarious, and full of that signature Ryan energy—with just enough chaos to keep it real.

S1E10 Ryan Blakeman: From Playbook to Purpose

On this episode of Lokahi Backstage, Jamie Ann Blakeman welcomes her husband, Ryan Blakeman—coach, mentor, and founder of Lokahi Teams—for a conversation about resilience, grit, and the courage to fight for what matters most. Ryan shares how a major setback shifted the course of his life and how it fueled his passion to help young athletes dig deep, rise to challenges, and pursue their goals with purpose.As Ryan puts it: “Life is short. We’ve all heard it—but when was the last time you really let it hit you? It’s not just a phrase, it’s an invitation. To say what you mean. To chase what you love. To stop waiting for someday. Life is short. Live like you know it.” Although Ryan’s life centers heavily on sports and coaching—this episode is about choosing to live fully, showing up with intention, and embracing the process that leads to real growth.

S1E9 Susan Bitter Smith: Getting Things Done

Some people talk about making things happen. Susan Bitter Smith, President of Technical Solutions, actually makes things happen — by knowing how, and who, to connect. On this episode of Lokahi Backstage with Jamie Ann Blakeman, we dive into the art of building bridges, navigating politics, and why being called “The Convenient Woman from the West” says more about power than convenience. This episode is a smart, spirited conversation about influence, relationships, and the power of showing up with the right people at the right time. - Susan Bitter Smith, CAE is a Certified Association Executive, as designated by the American Society of Association Executives. She is a Past Chairman of the American Society of Association Executives, is the Past President of the Arizona Society of Association Executives, and received ASAE’s highest award, the Key Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2001, and ASAE’s Community Service Award in 2011. Susan is a founding member of the Public Affairs Professionals of Arizona and is an Arizona registered lobbyist. She is the Past Chairman of the Walter Cronkite Foundation, the Past President of the ASU Alumni Association, and the Honorary Chairman of the ASU MBA Alumni Council. Susan chaired the Arizonans for Bush campaign in 1988 and 1992 and was Chairman of the Steve Forbes for President campaign in Arizona in 1996. She is a former Vice-Mayor and City Council member in the City of Scottsdale, Arizona, and was active as a Councilman in the areas of economic development, planning and zoning reform, and budgetary reform. She was a Republican candidate for Congress in Arizona's 5th District and is a past President of the Central Arizona Water Conservation District Board of Directors. Additionally, Susan is the former Chairman of the Arizona Corporation Commission. She currently serves as the President of the elected Maricopa Community College District Governing Board and is the President of Technical Solutions.