Behind the Lavalava

Dec 22 2024 105 ep. 46 mins
Behind the Lavalava Podcast artwork

Welcome to Behind the Lavalava! Here, you will find authentic, firsthand perspectives on Pacific Island culture and life from a group of seasoned veterans. We share stories and express our opinions, all drawn from our own life experiences. This podcast places a special emphasis on all veterans, the people and cultures of the Pacific, and small businesses. 

  Society & Culture  Business  Education
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#105 Reflecting on 2024: Growth, Gratitude, and Goals

Dec 22 2024 42 mins  
Send us a text In this episode, we take a moment to reflect on an eventful 2024. It’s been a year filled with highs and lows, and with the holiday season here, it feels like the perfect time to pause, express gratitude, and think about what lies ahead. We talk about how the podcast has evolved over the past three years, from tackling controversial and meaningful topics to highlig

#104 Empowered Living: Navigating Alzheimer’s, Cancer, and Caregiving.

Nov 11 2024 45 mins  
Send us a text In this episode, we’re joined by Lulu Wolfgramm, Director of Empowered Living Services at PIK2AR (Pacific Island Knowledge to Action Resources), who shares her journey from a volunteer to leading a program that connects Pacific Islanders to health resources in Salt Lake City. Lulu discusses the mission of PIK2AR, which began as a violence prevention group and has e

#103 Crying Out Loud: Men, Emotions, and Vulnerability

Oct 23 2024 65 mins  
Send us a text In this episode, we confront the question: is it okay for men to cry? Reflecting on our personal experiences, societal norms, and cultural backgrounds, we explore the impact of emotional expression in men’s lives. From stories of grief to the way the media portrays men’s emotions, we dive into how being open with our feelings can shape family dynamics and mental

#102 Building Confidence in Cyber: The DTA Approach.

Oct 06 2024 25 mins  
Send us a text In this episode, we chat with Frank Unpingco III, co-founder of Domination Thru Automation (DTA), about the journey from military service to entrepreneurship in the cybersecurity realm. Frank reveals how DTA emerged from a tight-knit group of veterans who shared a passion for technology and a vision to make cybersecurity accessible for everyone. He explains the signi

#101 Empowering Small Businesses with Comcast: A Conversation with Bryce Scanlon.

Sep 16 2024 21 mins  
Send us a text In this episode, we talk with Bryce Viliamu Scanlon, a Comcast Business representative who shares his journey from residential technician to business account manager. Bryce now focuses on helping small businesses in Utah find solutions that drive growth and resilience. He highlights the importance of adapting to the times, offering services like enhanced internet and

#100 Navigating Medicare: Insights for Veterans and the Community

Aug 27 2024 41 mins  
Send us a text In this episode, we dive into the world of Medicare with sales agents Renee Curtis and Kyle Cross, exploring their passion for community service and their journey from different professional backgrounds into the health insurance industry. They discuss the complexities of Medicare, particularly the benefits of Medicare Advantage plans, which offer additional perks lik

EP 99. Am I the Fiapoko?

Jul 27 2024 53 mins  
Send us a text In this episode of our podcast, we introduce the new segment "Am I the Fiapoko?" where we dive into real-life dilemmas and offer our candid opinions. First, we discuss a man who refused to congratulate his sister on coming out due to concerns about her relationship choices. Next, we explore a vacation conflict where a woman is asked to rebook her trip to babysit for

EP 98. From Bomb Technician to Entrepreneur: Eduardo Marquez's Journey.

Jul 10 2024 27 mins  
Send us a text In this episode, we sit down with Eduardo Marquez, the founder of Mortal Triumph, to delve into his journey from a bomb technician in the military to a business owner in Utah. Eddie shares his background, including his extensive travels and the challenges of transitioning from California's beaches to Utah's mountains. We explore his military experiences, focusing on

EP 97. Toa Ole Afi Pati Levasa: Australia's First Ailao Afi Fire knife Competition.

Jul 07 2024 21 mins  
Send us a text In this episode, join us as we chat with Su'a Andrew Isaako, the cofounder of Pou O Toa, currently based in Brisbane, Australia. Su'a shares the exciting details of the first-ever Ailao Afi Fireknife Competition in Australia, Toa Ole Afi Pati Levasa, set for September. Discover Su'a's rich journey from American Samoa to Brisbane, and how his family's legacy in entert

EP 96. Inside Millcreek Advanced Dental: A Conversation with Dr. Oblad.

Jun 28 2024 22 mins  
Send us a text In this episode, Dr. Stephen Oblad, a veteran dentist and owner of Millcreek Advanced Dental in Salt Lake City, Utah, shares his journey and passion for dentistry. Dr. Oblad recounts his life experiences, including living in various parts of the U.S. and serving in the military, which profoundly shaped his career. He delves into the rigorous education and training th