Voice of Business Podcast by the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii

Hosted by Chamber of Commerce Hawaii

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Episodes

117

Latest episode

Jun 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

Join the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii for weekly conversations with Hawaii's business community. Sponsored by ALTRES and hosted by Jo McGarry, this podcast will tell the story of business in Hawaii, and will address the challenges of adapting to an ever changing economy. The podcast will also serve as a valuable resource to anyone looking to grow their business, or hear the inside story of some of Hawaii’s most influential employers.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

June 4, 202618 min

Episode #116: The Power of Direct Mail with Aaron MacDaniel of Valpak of Hawaii

Direct mail still has a lot of staying power. In our latest episode of the Voice of Business podcast, presented by ALTRES, we sit down with Aaron MacDaniel, Owner of Valpak of Hawaii, to explore how targeted direct mail (paired with the right data) can cut through digital noise and deliver real ROI for local businesses. Aaron shares what too many businesses get wrong with mail campaigns, how to know when to combine mail with digital, and why the iconic Blue Envelope is still opening doors across Oahu. As the “Voice of Business” in Hawaii, the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii is a statewide, non-profit organization whose mission is to serve as the advocate for business in Hawaii. Learn more online at cochawaii.org, and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

May 20, 202617 min

Episode #115: Turning Research Into Real Business Action with Sean Tangco

In this episode of the Voice of Business podcast, presented by ALTRES, host Jo McGarry speaks with Sean Tangco, Founder of Small Kine Research & Action, about how organizations can turn research and insight into meaningful, lasting change. Sean shares how understanding human behavior, culture, and systems can help businesses move beyond surface-level data and design strategies that actually stick in real-world decision-making and habits. We also explore common misconceptions about research and how companies can better use it to drive impact.Visit cochawaii.org. As the “Voice of Business” in Hawaii, the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii is a statewide, non-profit organization whose mission is to serve as the advocate for business in Hawaii. Learn more online at cochawaii.org, and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

May 6, 202616 min

Episode #114: Supporting North Shore Businesses After Kona Low

How are North Shore businesses recovering after the recent Kona Low? In this episode of the Voice of Business podcast, presented by ALTRES, Carol Philips, Vice President of the North Shore Chamber of Commerce, shares firsthand insight on the challenges local businesses face and what support is needed most. The conversation highlights recovery efforts, including a dedicated relief fund, and ways the community can help. Tune in to learn how to support North Shore’s rebuilding.To donate to our Oahu North Shore small business fund, click here.As the “Voice of Business” in Hawaii, the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii is a statewide, non-profit organization whose mission is to serve as the advocate for business in Hawaii. Learn more online at cochawaii.org, and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

April 22, 202620 min

Episode #113: Smarter Advocacy Through Legislative Intelligence Tools with Seiichi Nagai

On this episode of the Voice of Business podcast, presented by ALTRES, we talk with Seiichi Nagai, Co-Founder & CEO of CivicNexus, a Hawaii-based platform helping organizations track legislation and understand policy changes in real time.We explore the growing role of legislative intelligence in business strategy, why proactive advocacy matters more than ever, and how modern tools are making government engagement more accessible and impactful for organizations across Hawaii.See more episodes here.As the “Voice of Business” in Hawaii, the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii is a statewide, non-profit organization whose mission is to serve as the advocate for business in Hawaii. Learn more online at cochawaii.org, and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

April 8, 202620 min

Episode #112: Workplace Stress Signs and Solutions with Dr. Ashley Renea

In this episode of the Voice of Business podcast, presented by ALTRES, Dr. Ashley Renea of Ola Kai Behavioral Hawaii explains how today’s always-on work environment affects professionals. She shares when to seek support, how employers can respond, and the long-term benefits of prioritizing mental health. Tune in to learn practical strategies for building healthier, more resilient teams. As the “Voice of Business” in Hawaii, the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii is a statewide, non-profit organization whose mission is to serve as the advocate for business in Hawaii. Learn more online at cochawaii.org, and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

March 25, 202620 min

Episode #111: National Doctors Day Spotlight - Healthcare and Workforce Insights with Dr. Leslie Chun of Hawaii Pacific Health Medical Group

In this episode of the Voice of Business podcast, presented by ALTRES, we celebrate National Doctors Day (March 30). We sit down with Dr. Leslie Chun, CEO of Hawaii Pacific Health Medical Group, to explore the intersection of healthcare and Hawaii’s workforce. From provider shortages to evolving care models, Dr. Chun shares insights on what employers should know, how health impacts business outcomes, and what’s ahead for our Hawaii's healthcare system.As the “Voice of Business” in Hawaii, the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii is a statewide, non-profit organization whose mission is to serve as the advocate for business in Hawaii. Learn more online at cochawaii.org, and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

March 11, 202619 min

Episode #110: Shaping Confident Women Leaders in Hawaii with Dr. Brandy Sato of Sacred Hearts Academy

In this episode of the Voice of Business podcast, Dr. Brandy Ann Sato, President of Sacred Hearts Academy and proud alumna, shares how the Academy cultivates confident, purpose-driven young women. She reflects on the experiences that shape girls’ leadership, the ways students use their voices and talents to create real community impact, and why uplifting girls matters for Hawaii’s future. Listen for insights on fostering leadership, empowering young women, and the role education plays in building the next generation of bold, compassionate leaders.Check out more episodes at: cochawaii.orgAs the “Voice of Business” in Hawaii, the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii is a statewide, non-profit organization whose mission is to serve as the advocate for business in Hawaii. Learn more online at cochawaii.org, and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

February 18, 202620 min

Episode #109: Modernizing Business for What’s Next with Gordon Powers of The Powers Group

In this episode of Voice of Business, presented by ALTRES, we sit down with Gordon Powers, Founder and CEO of The Powers Group. We discuss how businesses can optimize operations, adapt to changing markets, and leverage AI, analytics, and modern software solutions to grow smarter and more efficiently. Gordon shares practical insights on why technology isn’t just for large companies and how local businesses can use the right tools to strengthen operations and long-term resilience.As the “Voice of Business” in Hawaii, the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii is a statewide, non-profit organization whose mission is to serve as the advocate for business in Hawaii. Learn more online at cochawaii.org, and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

February 4, 202620 min

Episode #108: The Business of Local News with Kam Napier of Aloha State Daily

In this episode of Voice of Business, presented by ALTRES, we sit down with Kam Napier, Editor-in-Chief of Aloha State Daily. He shares how business coverage has evolved in Hawaii, how companies can communicate more effectively with the media, and why accuracy matters in an era of fast news and social media. We also discuss the shared responsibility of businesses and journalists in combating misinformation and why a strong local news ecosystem is essential to a healthy economy.As the “Voice of Business” in Hawaii, the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii is a statewide, non-profit organization whose mission is to serve as the advocate for business in Hawaii. Learn more online at cochawaii.org, and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

January 21, 202622 min

Episode #107: Chamber Weeks Take Flight with Jacob Aki of Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines

Jacob Aki, Senior Public Affairs Manager for Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines, joins the podcast to discuss the airlines’ long-standing partnership with Chamber Weeks, Hawaii’s premier business networking and professional development event. He shares how this collaboration reflects their commitment to supporting local businesses and strengthening community connections across the islands. From programs that empower professionals to initiatives that highlight Hawaiian culture and values, learn how Chamber Weeks helps businesses grow and thrive. Click HERE for a full list of events. Plus, get a sneak peek at exciting airline initiatives that continue to connect communities and open new opportunities for Hawaii.As the “Voice of Business” in Hawaii, the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii is a statewide, non-profit organization whose mission is to serve as the advocate for business in Hawaii. Learn more online at cochawaii.org, and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.