Greater Good Radio

What if the key to healing trauma, anxiety, and depression has been misunderstood for decades — and the answer lies in a medicine most of us were taught to fear? Mike DeMattos, Chair of the Bachelor of Social Work Program at the University of Hawaii, joins Evan Leong for a deeply honest and wide-ranging conversation about psychedelic-assisted therapy, the roots of self-rejection, and what it truly means to heal. Mike shares how his initial skepticism gave way to compelling research — and how psilocybin, MDMA, and other psychedelics may offer something traditional treatments have struggled to provide: a new way of seeing the world, free from the emotional patterns that have held us back. From unpacking childhood trauma and the "ruminative conditions" that trap us, to the power of IFS therapy and his own deeply personal unburdening, Mike brings both the clinical expertise and the lived experience of someone who has done the hard work himself. Watch now to discover why healing is never a solo journey — and why being whole matters more than being good.

In this powerful and emotional episode, Mano Nguyen opens up about his family’s escape from Vietnam, the challenges of growing up as a refugee, the sacrifices behind his parents’ strength, and the deep sense of duty and resilience that shaped him into a veteran, entrepreneur, and community leader. This conversation dives into identity, gratitude, cultural values, family legacy, and how community support becomes the backbone for overcoming life’s toughest battles. Mano’s story is a reminder that healing, success, and purpose all begin with the people who stand by us—and the courage to keep going no matter what.

Dive into an inspiring, no-ego masterclass with longtime Shidler College of Business dean Vance Roley, as he shares the leadership habits that powered two decades of growth at UH Mānoa: putting faculty first, building a culture of transparency, and partnering closely with alumni and donors to expand scholarships, endowments, and global opportunities. In this candid conversation, Vance talks recruiting top professors, the Direct Admit (freshman) pipeline, why study-abroad changes lives, how dedicated career services boost job placement, and what’s next as he transitions back to the classroom. You’ll also hear his early-life grit story, why Hawaii won his heart, and his take on AI in business education—plus practical advice for parents and students navigating college, careers, and the future of work. Watch to learn the real playbook behind sustained institutional excellence and community impact.

What does it really mean to live a life well lived? In this inspiring conversation, Jeff Zimmerman—co-owner of AdWalls and founder of Environmental Graphics Hawaii, sits down with Evan Leong to reflect on 40 years in Hawaii, the lessons of resilience after surviving a stroke, and his daily practice of “seeking beauty” in work, family, and community. From building a career in real estate and advertising to mentoring his children and embracing gratitude, Jeff shares candid stories of growth, creativity, and finding purpose beyond success. His journey is a powerful reminder that true fulfillment comes from giving back, creating meaning, and living with intention.

From Silicon Valley startups to co-founding Mana Up, Meli James has built her career on elevating Hawai‘i’s entrepreneurs while also navigating her own journey of self-discovery. In this powerful conversation, Meli opens up about the challenges of scaling businesses in Hawai‘i, the global potential of the “Hawai‘i brand,” and her personal transitions—from quarter-life crisis to building purpose and authenticity in her leadership. If you’ve ever wondered how to balance achievement with fulfillment, or how to grow world-class companies while staying true to yourself, this episode will inspire and challenge you.

What if the real battle isn’t out there—but within? In this powerful and deeply personal conversation, Kumu Ramsay Taum joins Evan Leong to explore the spiritual roots of conflict, healing, and transformation. Drawing from Hawaiian practices like Hoʻoponopono and Lua, Kumu Ramsay reveals how alignment, intention, and ancestral wisdom can help us move from tension to peace—from surviving to thriving. Whether he’s discussing his journey through injury, financial collapse, or cultural leadership, his insights offer a roadmap to finding pono (balance) in a chaotic world. If you’re seeking clarity, connection, or a new way of seeing life’s challenges, this episode will resonate deeply.

From a tight-knit village on Hawai‘i Island to the top ranks of Disney and now co-founding his own hospitality firm, Elliot Kawaiho‘olana Mills shares the powerful story behind his rise—and the deeper meaning guiding his journey. In this episode of Greater Good Radio, Elliot opens up about his Big Island roots, the legacy of his ancestors, the cultural vision behind Aulani, and how his daughter’s simple Christmas wish changed the course of his life. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to succeed in business without losing your soul, this deeply personal and inspiring conversation is for you.