What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned as a woman in business?

The greatest lesson I’ve learned as a woman in business is simple but powerful: Take care of yourself first.

For years, I believed success required constant sacrifice—long hours, late nights, and putting everyone else’s needs ahead of my own. I thought exhaustion was proof of dedication. But eventually, I realized that living in a constant state of burnout wasn’t sustainable or admirable; it was harmful.

Like many women, I tried to be everything to everyone—a leader, partner, friend, and professional—without ever pausing to take care of myself. I used to think self-care was a luxury that could wait until my business reached the next milestone. But the truth is, no matter how hard you work, you can’t pour from an empty cup.

My turning point came when I noticed that the passion and creativity which once fueled my work were fading. I was successful on paper but completely drained inside. That’s when I began to understand self-care isn’t a distraction from success but a foundation for it. When you’re rested, centered, and healthy, you lead better, think clearer, and create more impact.

I began to view rest as productive, not indulgent. I said no to opportunities that didn’t align with my values or my well-being. And I stopped apologizing for prioritizing myself. I learned that great leadership isn’t about doing everything. It’s about leading with balance, clarity, and compassion. By modeling self-care, I gave my team permission to do the same.

Today, I still have big goals and ambitions, but I pursue them differently. I protect my peace as fiercely as my profits. And I’ve learned that when I prioritize my well-being, everything else—my business, relationships, and creativity—thrives too.

How do you define success for yourself?

For me, success changes with every season of life. Right now, success is having the freedom to create my own schedule so I can take care of my family and be a present mom. I’ve realized true success is about peace, balance, and alignment. It’s about building a life that allows me to be there for my kids while still doing what I love.

Being an entrepreneur and a mom isn’t always easy, but it’s a privilege to have the flexibility to do both. Some days I pour more into my business, and other days I focus on my family—and that’s okay. Success, for me, is knowing that I get to make that choice.

How do you balance work and personal life—or do you believe in balance at all?

For a long time, I chased the idea of balance, believing that if I just managed my time better, I could give one hundred percent to both my business and my family all the time. But the truth is, something will always need more attention at different moments. Some days, my business takes the lead. Other days, my family does. Balance, to me, isn’t about perfection; it’s about flow.

I start every day by making time for myself first. Whether it’s quiet reflection, exercise, or simply enjoying a few moments of peace before the day begins, that time grounds me. When I take care of myself first, everything else seems to fall into place more naturally.

As any entrepreneur or parent knows, things rarely go according to plan. Meetings run long, kids get sick, opportunities arise unexpectedly. Instead of fighting those changes, I’ve learned to adapt to them. Flexibility has become one of my greatest strengths.

I have an incredible village that helps make it all possible. My husband, my family, and my team all play essential roles in supporting both my personal life and my business. Asking for help used to feel uncomfortable because I thought it was a sign of weakness. Now I see it as a sign of wisdom. None of us can do everything on our own, and we’re not meant to.

What’s the most recent book, podcast, or show that inspired you?

The most recent book that truly inspired me is THE LET THEM THEORY by Mel Robbins, which is a simple idea but carries a life-changing message: Let people do what they’re going to do, and you focus on you.

Mel Robbins explains the “Let Them” mindset is about giving others the freedom to make their own choices without letting it disrupt your energy. If someone doesn’t support you, let them. If they don’t understand your vision, let them. If they choose differently than you would, let them. It’s not your job to manage everyone’s behavior or opinions. Your job is to stay aligned with your values, your goals, and your peace.

As a mom, I remind myself that my kids are their own people. They’ll make their own choices and mistakes, just like I did. My role is to guide and love them, not control them. As a wife, I’ve learned that partnership thrives on trust and space, not perfection.

What I love most about THE LET THEM THEORY is it gives you permission to stop overthinking and start living freely. It’s a reminder that you don’t need to chase validation or force outcomes.

Whenever something doesn’t go my way, or when someone’s actions don’t make sense, I just take a breath and say to myself, “Let them.” It’s powerful, freeing, and exactly the kind of wisdom I wish I had learned sooner.

What’s your “power outfit” that makes you feel unstoppable?

Anything Lexbreezy Hawai‘i.

What would your younger self be most proud of you today?

When I look back, I see a young woman full of dreams, drive, and determination, but also uncertainty. She didn’t have all the answers, yet she kept going. My younger self would be proud I never gave up when things got hard, even when life didn’t go according to plan. She would be proud that I kept showing up, kept believing in myself, and kept finding the strength to rise, no matter what challenges came my way.

Growth is not always glamorous. It’s often uncomfortable, messy, and full of lessons you don’t see coming. My younger self would be proud that I didn’t let fear stop me. When I was younger, I didn’t always understand the power of my voice or the influence that came with it. Today, I recognize how important it is to speak up to advocate for others, to share my story honestly, and to inspire others to believe in their own potential.

I think she’d also be proud of the way I’ve learned to take care of myself: To set boundaries, to rest, and to recognize that strength doesn’t always mean pushing harder. It can also mean slowing down, listening to your intuition, and trusting the process.

She would see that everything she went through led her to a woman who leads with purpose, compassion, and courage. And I’d like to think she’d smile and say, “You did it—and you did it your way.”

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned as a woman in business?

Over the years, one of the biggest lessons I learned is that you can be talented in your craft but to be talented in business you have to be impeccable with your craft, determined to succeed (at all costs) and committed to All of the pieces that come with running your business.

What has been your proudest professional achievement so far?

My proudest professional achievement so far is being one of O‘ahu’s premiere wedding caterers, Tailor Made Custom Catering, and opening my brick and mortar Lilikoi Kitchen with my kids and wife by my side.

If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

I would speak to my younger self and tell her that she belongs at every table, we as women second-guess ourselves. I would also reassure myself that it gets better, dream big, and stay committed to your passion.

What motivates you on the tough days?

Many things motivate me. My passion as a Chef and Restaurateur and for my craft, my vision for connection through community, and my clients, HUGELY my children and spouse and of course my team.

What’s your go-to coffee (or tea) order?

I LOVE LOVE LOVE all things coffee but I will take a coconut cortado from Tradition Coffee Roasters any day of the week.

What’s your vision for women in your industry 10 years from now?

My vision for women in the industry in 10 years, honestly? I envision a space for women and women in business to not have to work so hard to prove their worth and to be acknowledged and celebrated for being great business leaders. It is still very hard to get into spaces for women and be respected in business, from negotiating buildouts of spaces to leading in male-dominated circles. It is still very tough for us and I believe in equality.

What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve ever received?

Simple. Don’t give up, stay committed, and get good at time management!

How do you define success for yourself?

The definition of success for me ebbs and flows. Success for me is attaining and meeting my goals in business, having happy children, and always making sure that I am in alignment with my vision, beliefs, integrity, and soul’s purpose.

What’s a mantra, quote, or saying you live by?

It’s easy to let goals and ambitions fall to the wayside: Stay committed to your dream, stay motivated on your dream, goal set to support your dream, and keep your tenacity to chase your dream!

How do you balance work and personal life—or do you believe in balance at all?

That’s a tough one. As a business owner, restaurateur, and mom, the juggle is real and sometimes I can’t be everything to everyone. The best for my family is always carving time out for family time even though work life is hectic and trying to find at least one thing I can do for myself. Balance is tricky, and every day I re-assess my priorities.

What has been your proudest professional achievement so far?

One of my proudest professional achievements so far has been becoming the first female General Manager at OUTRIGGER, a milestone that carries both personal significance and broader meaning within an industry long dominated by male leadership.

Granted, this was over a decade ago, and times have (thankfully) changed, but breaking through that ceiling wasn’t just about earning a specific title. It was about proving through consistent performance and hard work that leadership should not be rewarded based on gender when you lead with vision, focus, and the ability to inspire a team to do the best they can daily.

I not only had to navigate the operational challenges of running a hotel, but also the silent pressure of being “the first.” The one people watch, the one who must succeed, not just for herself but for the women coming up behind her. And I carry all that responsibility with pride. This achievement wasn’t my finish line; rather, it was my starting point. While I have a different role today, this accomplishment motivates me to mentor others, create a space at the table for all women and to help shift the culture toward one where leadership is measured by your potential and not your gender.

Who was your biggest role model or mentor growing up?

My mom was more than just a parent. She was (and is) my mentor, my role model, and the strongest person I’ve ever known.

As a single mother, she carried the weight of two parents without complaining. She worked tirelessly, often working several jobs at once, not just to provide, but to pave a better path for me. What she taught me about hard work didn’t come from many speeches or advice, it came from leading by example. I watched as she juggled jobs, managed bills, and still had the energy to be there for me emotionally when I needed guidance or a hug.

She never gave up and never let circumstances define her. She taught me that hard work isn’t just about effort but also about perseverance, sacrifice, and believing in yourself even when no one else sees your potential. Through her actions, she showed me that strength is quiet, steady, and often unseen.

Her personal journey taught me success isn’t handed to you and that it is earned. Because of her, I understand what it means to work hard, keep going and to lead by example while giving back to others when able.

How do you define success for yourself?

As I’ve grown older, my definition of success has changed. It is no longer measured by the size of a paycheck or the number of people I supervise. Instead, success is being able to get up every day (literally) and feel at peace with where I am in my life.

It means doing work that aligns with who I am, not just what I can do. It’s about having the freedom to choose how I spend my time, and the clarity to know what truly matters.

In my mind, success is about maintaining integrity in a world that challenges it, building genuine relationships, friendships and leaving a good impression on those around me at work, at home or within my community. Success is about growth, not just climbing career ladders but continuing to evolve as a person. It’s about balancing ambition and being able to give to others while caring for myself.

What’s your go-to coffee (or tea) order?

Iced Americano, black.

What’s the most recent book, podcast, or show that inspired you?

I have just started listening to The Hoffman Podcast which focuses on inner transformation and how it can lead to outward change. I find the entire process of blending psychological insight with spiritual reflection very inspiring.

Describe your leadership style in three words.

Resilient, courageous, supportive.

If you could host a talk show, who would be your dream first guest?

If I could choose anyone in the world to be my guest on a talk show, without hesitation, it would be my son, Cole. Not because he is famous or accomplished in the ways the world often focuses on but because to me, he represents the very best of what I’ve hoped he would represent. Watching him become his own person, smart, thoughtful, and resilient, has been the greatest privilege of my life thus far.

I would want the world to hear his story. Not the one that I share about him, but the one that he’s written for himself. I’d ask him about moments that shaped him, the values he holds close, and how he sees the world. Who knows, I might even ask how he sees me. Our conversation would not be about achievements (although he has many) but rather about growth, character, and what it means to try, fail, and to keep going.

And more than anything, I’d sit quietly for a moment, filled with awe and gratitude, thinking: “This is the human being I got to help raise.” That would be my dream episode.

What has been your proudest professional achievement so far?

My proudest achievement has been watching Fighting Eel grow into something far bigger than I ever imagined. We started with women’s clothing, and now we’ve expanded into men and boys, home, and even travel. It is becoming a full lifestyle brand that touches every part of our customers’ lives.

To see our prints on families, in their homes, in their suitcases as they travel the world…that’s something I never dreamed would happen when we were sewing our first samples. And now, having my own daughter work alongside me in the business feels like the most meaningful full-circle moment. It reminds me that we didn’t just build a brand, we built a legacy. That evolution, that growth, and the love our community has shown us is what I’m most proud of.

How do you define success for yourself?

For me, success isn’t a title or a dollar amount, it’s freedom. Freedom to create. Freedom to take risks. Freedom to be with my kids when they need me. Freedom to build a career that doesn’t force me to choose between being a mom and being a business owner.

Success also feels like alignment. When my work feels like an extension of who I am, when my team feels supported, when our customers feel seen and beautiful, that’s success to me. It’s the quiet moments more than the loud ones.

What motivates you on the tough days?

My kids will always be my biggest motivation. Knowing they’re watching how I show up in the world pushes me to keep going, even when things get hard. And my team motivates me too. They show up with so much heart and loyalty, and I want to match that energy for them.

But the truth is, this doesn’t really feel like a “job” to me. Fighting Eel is my passion. It’s something I wake up excited about every single day. Even on tough days, there’s always an idea in my head I want to bring to life, a print I want to design, a new product I want to create, or a concept I can’t wait to share with our community.

There’s still so much I want to build. More collections, more lifestyle pieces, more experiences. That creative spark keeps me going. The vision is bigger than the challenges, and that’s what gives me energy on the days when most people would want to quit.

What is one risk you took that really paid off?

The biggest risk I ever took was starting Fighting Eel. At the time, the store I was working for, agnès b., was closing, and it felt like the universe was nudging me toward something new. My business partner at the time was also my roommate, and we both worked at agnès b.

I had a background in fashion, she had a background in photography, and one day we just looked at each other and thought, “Why don’t we start a clothing line?” We had no real business experience, no roadmap, no investors. What we had was passion, timing, and a whole lot of willingness to work hard and ask every question we could along the way.

It was scary because we were stepping into the unknown. But it was also incredibly exciting because we believed in our vision even before we knew exactly what it would become. Looking back, that leap changed everything. It led to a brand that has lasted for decades, expanded into men, kids, home, and travel, and become a true lifestyle brand.

It led to stores, countless collections, and most importantly, a loyal following.

That risk, taken at a time when all we had was heart and hustle, has paid off in ways I could never have imagined.

How do you balance work and personal life—or do you believe in balance at all?

Honestly, I don’t think about “balance” in the traditional sense, I just do it. It’s part of my everyday life. I live it, breathe it, and have built a life where my work and my personal life flow together.

Fighting Eel doesn’t feel like work to me; it’s something I’m passionate about,

something I love creating, sharing, and experiencing every day. Because it’s part of who I am, it doesn’t feel like a choice between work and life. It’s all

intertwined, and I’ve learned to embrace that rhythm rather than chase a perfect balance.

How do you define success for yourself?

Success, for me, is reflected in the growth of our team—both personally and professionally. When people feel valued, empowered, and fulfilled, they bring out their best selves. That energy elevates the member experience and drives operational excellence.

What motivates you on the tough days?

Remembering that tough times don’t last, but tough cookies do and knowing that challenges are where growth happens. Early in my career, tough days felt personal and heavy; now I see them as opportunities to lead with perspective and purpose. I’m inspired by women like Michelle Obama, who model grace under pressure, by my mentors who guide me, my mentees who keep me learning, and my team, who remind me that real growth—personal or organizational—comes from staying connected, supporting one another, and moving forward together.

What is one risk you took that really paid off?

Taking a 7-month sabbatical to travel South Africa and Central Europe with my husband. It was an incredible experience, and I’m grateful we did it while we still had good knees and backs! Best of all, I was able to return to The Pacific Club as General Manager with a fresh perspective and renewed energy. The time away also allowed me to reset and not carry over past duties as I had before.

If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

Don’t label things too quickly. What seems like a setback often turns out to be a turning point, pushing growth in unexpected ways. Even our so-called defects can become assets. Practice the opposite behavior until it feels natural.

What’s your vision for women in your industry 10 years from now?

As the first woman General Manager of The Pacific Club, I hope my role is an example for others to follow. Ten years from now, I envision more women in senior leadership roles, shaping the culture of positions across private clubs and hospitality. With diverse perspectives and voices, we can create organizations that value balance, inclusivity, and innovation—and set an example for the next generation of leaders.

How do you balance work and personal life—or do you believe in balance at all?

I believe in balance, though it doesn’t always look like that. Some days are long, but I always carve out a “reverse happy hour” in the morning—an hour to hike, swim, do yoga, or surf. That time clears my head and often sparks my best ideas. My husband also helps keep me grounded. He’s always planning adventures, which motivates me to leave the office at a decent hour and make space for fun outside of work.

What inspired you to start your career in this field?

Watching my grandmother balance family, work, and community. She had 18 children of her own and raised 10 grandchildren while her husband was in the service.

Who was your biggest role model or mentor growing up?

My grandmother. She was a product of the Hawaiian overthrow of 1893 and comes from an extensive line of Native Hawaiian healers. She not only took care of the people on Moloka‘i but also those who would travel from afar.

What’s the biggest lesson you have learned as a woman in business?

It takes a village to keep you on the right path during your journey.

What is your “power outfit” that makes you feel unstoppable?

A royal blue holoku or red Hawaiian attire.

If you could host a talk show, who would be your dream first guest?

Michelle Obama. Her beauty, style, charisma, and intellect are stunning. My Idol.

What is one risk you took that really paid off?

Waikiki Health Pu‘uhonua Prison Reentry Program offers statewide inmates a complete support system of information, education, services, and encouragement.

Created in July 2016. Pu‘uhonua (A Safe Place of Healing) was developed by Waikiki Health’s Director of Native Hawaiian Healing Francine Dudoit-Tagupa, who helps inmates create their “Going Home Plan for Success,” a personal roadmap for transitioning back into community and getting connected to appropriate health and social service providers.

According to the Department Of Corrections and Rehabilitation, inmates relapse into criminal behavior due to their lack of a livable wage, safe place to live, and healthy relationships. Our mission is to remove the barriers that contribute to recidivism. Our program allows entrance to all facilities including the Federal Prison through the VOLINCOR services program.

We have 120 partners that assist us with housing (Clean & Sober, Faith Base, Transitional Shelters), transportation, workforce agencies (Waikiki Health employs inmates), unions (carpenters, painters, construction), medical homes (immediate access to care), gift cards, medical insurance (MedQuest), compassionate release, and reunification with family members.

Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders have the highest percentage rate in ethnic background of incarceration at 86 percent (2016) vs. 48.2 percent (2025). We know this program works. We are proud to say between 2016 and 2025, we have seen and assisted 6,248 unduplicated individuals, with less than a 1 percent recidivism rate.

What’s your morning routine or ritual that sets the tone for your day?

My day starts around 3 am with prayer and reviewing my schedule for the day with joy and thanksgiving. I lay out my attire for the week. At 6 am, I meet with my assistant over coffee to discuss my week, clients, meetings, and anything that needs my attention. I have an open-door policy, allowing clients and co-workers to stop by and discuss whatever is on their minds. Even if it’s just to say “Hello.” Everyone at Waikiki Health knows my schedule and feels welcome in my office.

What motivates you on tough days?

I really do not have tough days. I have had stressful days. Being around positive people, taking a break, and taking a walk help. Staying positive and being around positive people is a huge plus. Taking a pause from what is causing stress and talking it out changes my attitude. Hawaiian music always gives me clarity, and phone calls from my grandchildren will always improve my mood.

We will always face inconveniences in our lives. If we don’t react to them, we don’t allow them to be tough.

What inspired you to start your career in this field?

I entered this field out of necessity. I couldn’t return to my homeland, and I was caught between papers and worlds, without money or a sense of belonging.

Cooking with my mother became the only place where I felt anchored, close to home, close to myself. The rhythm of her hands, the scent of our food, the way she moved through the kitchen. It lifted me from a life I felt trapped in and gave me a path toward freedom.

In that small kitchen, I carved a home within a home. Through cooking, I found community, farmers, and a way to stand on solid ground. That’s where this career truly began.

What has been your proudest professional achievement so far?

My proudest achievement is creating a space that reflects my story, a modern Turkish Anatolian heritage rooted in Hawai‘i’s ‘āina. Without trends, shortcuts, or compromise. Istanbul Hawa‘‘i exists because of resilience, discipline, and a commitment to honoring our culture with clarity.

I’m proudest when guests feel warmth the moment they sit down. When a space born from struggle evolves into an art form that moves people and that is success.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned as a woman in business?

That a woman already carries everything she needs, intuition, discipline, endurance, and the ability to create beauty out of adversity.

The lesson is that strength doesn’t need to be loud. The art of being a woman in business is knowing when to lead with precision and when to lead with grace. It’s understanding that empathy is not a weakness and that conviction doesn’t require aggression.

A woman builds differently: She builds from depth, from resilience, from a vision that holds both detail and emotion. And when she stands firmly in who she is, she becomes impossible to overlook.

What motivates you on the tough days?

I think of where I started; no papers, little support, constant uncertainty. If I survived those years, I can survive anything now.

I’m motivated by my team, by my mother, and by the responsibility to keep creating spaces where people feel cared for and connected. And often, it’s something small—saffron blooming in butter, the hum of the dining room finding its rhythm that reminds me why I chose this life.

If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

Always be yourself. Never shrink because of circumstance.

Everything you are fighting through will become your strength. Keep moving; as Rumi said, the road appears as you walk.

One day, you will build a life that feels like home, even far from where you were born. You will meet extraordinary people in Hawai‘i who will become family.

You will stand shoulder-to-shoulder with farmers, chefs, and community leaders who believe in you. And you will realize you didn’t just find a place to belong, you created one.

What inspired you to start your career in this field?

I was raised in a family that believed in helping others. Whether it was through time, sweat, financial, or other support, I learned that lifting up others provides the biggest return in life, bigger and more satisfying than anything else. My family did not have a lot, but we never wanted for anything. We struggled with making ends meet and with mental illness in our family; life wasn’t always “easy” but that helped shape the person I am today, and that is why I chose to pursue a career within the non-profit service industry especially in service to children.

Today, I’m grateful to serve as President & CEO of Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii, where we continue to expand opportunities and programs that uplift keiki across the islands.

What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve ever received?

Be your authentic self, stay true to your values even when it’s the hard choice, listen more than talk, don’t be afraid to walk away from the deal if it’s not the right one for you.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned as a woman in business?

Women are incredible leaders with instincts that are solid and an uncanny ability to see through the smoke and mirrors. I make it a point to mentor young women in our organization so they feel empowered to lead with confidence. I encourage all women to recognize your power, be the dissenting opinion when you need to, be confident, and most of all, support and bring along other women with you. And, don’t be afraid to call out the “Old Boys Club” mentality—it’s still present, not relevant, and needs to be identified and removed from our culture.

How do you define success for yourself?

My belief is: I’ve achieved success when my work creates a better life for another.

My reality is: I’ve worked hard to achieve the status I enjoy today.

I’m deeply grateful and aware of the privilege that comes with it—the ability to make choices, earn a living that provides freedom, and have access to people and resources that make life easier and more fulfilling. Success also means recognizing that privilege and knowing that others do not have it, even though they have worked just as hard as I have and deserve it just as much as I do.

Therefore, success will always be the carrot dangling in front of me until everyone has the same access to privilege. Part of that success is seeing the impact of our Club’s programs statewide and knowing that more children have access to safe spaces and mentorship. Lastly, success to me is also rooted in kuleana, a responsibility to lift others and create opportunities that last beyond ourselves.

What motivates you on the tough days?

I motivate myself with pep talks, and “first-world reality” assessments, and most of all I give myself the grace and kindness I give to others by allowing myself those moments of grief, frustration, even anger. Then, I put it behind me and move on because I have important work to do. My motivation always comes back to the vision of giving every child in Hawai‘i the same access to opportunity, support, and hope that others might take for granted.

How do you balance work and personal life—or do you believe in balance at all?

My philosophy and reality are work and personal life intertwine constantly and consistently. The balance comes when I give myself time to rest, to find joy, excitement, fulfillment, learning, and growth, and sometimes just spending time doing something that is just for me. Like staying in my pj’s all day and reading a good book. But, all of those things come from both work and personal life, which is why in my mind it is not one or the other. Each exists because of the other.

What’s your secret talent or hobby people might be surprised to learn about?

I am very proud to be a Kumu Hula and I have a hula halau in Vancouver, BC, Canada. We just celebrated our 25th year and we currently have 140 haumana. The leaders in my halau started with me as young children and I’ve had the honor of mentoring them, watching them grow and sharing in their joy as they succeed in life.

Describe your leadership style in three words.

Humble. Strong. Resilient.

If you could host a talk show, who would be your dream first guest?

Queen Lili‘uokalani or Anne Frank. Both demonstrated extraordinary strength, grace, and compassion in times of hardship.

What inspired you to start your career in this field?

I was inspired by Henk Rogers, the designer of Tetris.

What has been your proudest professional achievement so far?

Raising three sons.

Who was your biggest role model or mentor growing up?

Kumu Hula Iwalani Tseu

What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve ever received?

Fail to plan, plan to fail.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned as a woman in business?

Stay authentic.

How do you define success for yourself?

Success for myself is to see my staff move up or be promoted.

What motivates you on the tough days?

Laughter.

What is one risk you took that really paid off?

Making a career change and taking a leap of faith.

If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

Take lots of photos!

What’s your vision for women in your industry 10 years from now?

I would like to see more women executives in the hospitality field.

How do you balance work and personal life—or do you believe in balance at all?

I take time to have a nice meal every week.

What’s your morning routine or ritual that sets the tone for your day?

I wake up and I say thank you for my beautiful life.

What’s your go-to coffee (or tea) order?

Taster’s Choice in a packet.

If you weren’t in your current role, what career would you be pursuing?

Working in NYC in fashion.

What’s your secret talent or hobby people might be surprised to learn about?

I dance Tahitian.

What’s the most recent book, podcast, or show that inspired you?

THE MOST BEAUTIFUL by Mayte Garcia.

What’s the best way you like to recharge after a busy week?

Going to the gym at Fit Waikiki.

Describe your leadership style in three words.

Inspiring, understated, and elegant.

What’s a song that always gets you pumped up?

Anything Justin Bieber.

If you could swap lives with another woman for a day, who would it be?

Jessica Alba. I admire her business ethics.

What’s your “power outfit” that makes you feel unstoppable?

A white suit.

What’s a mantra, quote, or saying you live by?

You don’t know until you ask.

What would your younger self be most proud of you today?

My younger self would be proud that I remained authentic and grounded, staying true to my values and identity along the way.

If you could host a talk show, who would be your dream first guest?

Gianni Versace.

How do I show up for myself when things get difficult?

I stop, think, and then make a decision on how to handle the situation.

  

What parts of my life make me feel most fulfilled?

Knowing that my children are caring, compassionate, and successful.

What values guide my decisions, even when no one is watching?

What will be the outcome, how will it affect others and does it matter.

Am I truly passionate about the work I’m doing, or am I doing it out of obligation or comfort?
  

I am very passionate, I love that I get to meet people everyday and change their lives.
  

What skills or knowledge do I need to grow to the next level in my career?
  

We are always learning to do better. Read books, have a mentor, and travel to learn about other places in the world.

Who was your biggest role model or mentor while growing up?

My parents. I was lucky to have my mom at home full-time when my dad was in the Air Force. She taught me to read in pre-school and always made learning fun. I have fond memories of us playing often, her showing up to every game, performance, and event, and celebrating every birthday and holiday. She later became an interior designer and Realtor while I was in elementary school, and after I graduated college, she enrolled in HCC’s fashion program just for fun. For the final showcase, she created one of the most elegant Hawaiian lines I’ve ever seen.

My dad just retired from a 22-year career at Queen’s as their VP of Native Hawaiian Affairs & Clinical Support Services. He’s always been focused on service, especially to Native Hawaiians. Growing up, he made it clear that grades didn’t matter as much as whether I tried my best. That mindset stayed with me. Since retiring, he’s taken a creative media class at UH West O‘ahu and is now in HCC’s Mele program. When he’s not doing that, he’s traveling, hanging out with my mom, or chauffeuring my 99-year-old grandma around the island.

My parents taught me learning isn’t just important, it’s fun. Learn, work hard, serve others, and have fun.

What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve ever received?

“Leave everything better than you found it” and “Always try your best, even if it doesn’t seem important. You never know when you’ll need those skills.” That came from my grandfather, who led an incredible life and eventually became Hawai‘i’s first Native Hawaiian U.S. Senator. He also taught me by example that if you can lead with aloha and find ways to work with others, not against them, you will accomplish far more.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned as a woman in business?

I’ve learned to be aware of how I might come across and to lean into both the strengths and biases that come with being a woman. One advantage is our ability to build deep, genuine relationships. I take time to really get to know my colleagues, what they care about, who their families are, and that turns into lifelong friendships. I love catching up with them a few times a year just to reconnect.

On the flip side, there are still moments when people perceive assertive women as aggressive, whereas men saying the same thing might be seen as confident. This means we have to work harder to be heard, and that means calibrating tone, body language, and method of communication based on who we’re speaking to.

How do you balance work and personal life—or do you believe in balance at all?

When I started as an admin coordinator, balance was easy. We were a team of five, and I was done with my work halfway through the day and hunting for more to do. A 40-hour workweek was totally normal. Now, everything’s scaled—our team, the complexity of our work, and my responsibilities. I can’t clock out anymore and am always thinking about how to support the team, get everything done, and carve out enough creative space to improve things.

On top of that, I have a wonderful husband of 10 years and a rambunctious and adorable 4-year-old son whom I always want to spend time with. My approach is “go with the flow” with some structure mixed in. I prioritize having fun with my family while still giving my best at work.

I often skimp on “me time,” which I’m working on. What helps is running or walking with my dogs, playing guitar and singing, gardening, reading, or taking 15 quiet minutes outside after getting home—no phone, no noise, just wind through the trees. Sometimes there’s rum and a cigar involved. It’s a nice reset.

What’s the most recent book, podcast, or show that inspired you?

CHIEF of WAR hands down. As a Native Hawaiian, I’m deeply grateful for and proud of everyone who brought that project to life. It was a powerful example of the excellence we’re capable of, and it told our story from our side in a way I’ve never seen before. I cried through so much of it, feeling sadness over what our people endured, awe at the beauty of who we were, and a deeper connection to where we come from. It helped bridge something that’s been lost across generations.