Vale's Now U Know Podcast: Recent Episodes
Will Kinikini
Local Utah influencers, businesses, and neighbors all share their stories to inspire and move our Utah community forward. Listen in and learn from the insights of our local high performers. Let's build our local ecosystem as we connect and grow with each other.
Embark on an enlightening journey with Doug Fiefia, a Utah native whose diverse background—from football athlete to Google leader to State House candidate—reflects his unwavering commitment to community and progress.
In our conversation, Doug shares insights into the profound support of his Tongan family, the essence of community empowerment, and his optimistic vision for the future. He also reflects on the transformative lessons learned through the unexpected loss of his brother.
Join us as we delve into Doug Fiefia's remarkable narrative—a testament to resilience, leadership, and the enduring spirit of Utah. Tune in for a compelling discussion that resonates with wisdom, inspiration, and the promise of a brighter tomorrow.
Dive into the melodic world of Feli Ika, Utah's very own musical sensation, on this episode of "Now U Know." With millions of views and over 300 thousand followers on social media, Feli's voice has not only captivated local hearts but also garnered attention from industry giants like Brandy and Yebba.
Join us as Feli discusses her musical journey, inspirations, and creative process, offering a glimpse into the life of a viral sensation deeply rooted in Utah. As she gears up to release new music, this episode unveils the person behind the powerful voice, contributing not only to Utah's vibrant music scene but leaving a global impact. Don't miss the harmonious conversation with Feli Ika on "Now U Know."
Meet Ala Brown - A trailblazer in the world of software development, breaking barriers in the Polynesian community. Despite being a man of few words, Ala is incredibly humble and intelligent. He's not just a coding genius, but also an amazing father to two kids and a supportive husband to a strong wife who triumphed over cancer. Ala's journey began in humble beginnings, and he's proof that with dedication and passion, anyone can make waves in the tech world.
In the face of personal challenges, Ala has shown resilience, navigating the complexities of grief without losing sight of his dreams. His family, a cornerstone of his support system, has played a vital role in his success. 🤝 Ala's story is one of perseverance, love, and the power of family. Follow along as Ala continues to inspire and innovate! #TechPioneer #FamilyMan #HumbleBeginnings
Discover the incredible journey of Sione Pouha in this podcast episode. From being a football star at the University of Utah to becoming an NFL captain for the New York Jets, Sione's story is both inspiring and powerful. But he's not just about football – Sione is also a successful entrepreneur, a coach, a loving husband, and a dad. In our interview, we explore how Sione's unique experiences shaped his leadership and development, making him the remarkable person he is today. Join us as we delve into his insights on leadership and growth, drawn from a life rich with experiences both on and off the field.
Have you heard of a smart toilet seat? It's a special seat that helps make going to the bathroom easier and more hygienic. The Inventor? Our guest, Rob Poleki!
He noticed that even with all the fancy gadgets in public restrooms, they still weren't perfect. So, he took a break from his job in government and worked hard to create a new kind of toilet seat that was smarter than all the others. At this moment Washie, was born!
Now, you can find Washie in places like the Vivint Arena, the Mountain America Expo Center, and the Salt Lake International Airport.
Listen to our full interview with Rob as he shares his journey.
As a child Edgar Carreon migrated with his family from Mexico to America, forcing him to adjust to a new culture, language, and way of life. While that adjustment would take a toll on any child, Edgar has used those hard times as fuel to help build his businesses and change the world today.
One of those businesses Carreon would eventually start is Dree, a peer to peer platform that takes care of your laundry through its community. Listen as he shares how he has utilized his culture and upbringing as a super power to find success.
She's worked the likes of Dwayne Wade, Shaggy, Nicki Minaj, and of course our Utah Jazz!
Calyann Barnett has pioneered the merging of 2 major industries: fashion and professional sports. And true to form, she has done it with style.
Barnett, originally from Miami, has excelled in her profession as a stylist. Catapulting her in the pathway of the world's biggest stars, but the success was not merely handed to her. From a young age Calyann knew she wanted 1 thing... to be happy. While simple on the surface, she dives deep into how this goal coupled with relentless hard work has taken her to where she is today.
As a contributor to much of the exciting things happening in Utah, she teaches about life through her unique and profound journey.
LISTEN.SUBSCRIBE.SHARE.
Instagram: @valemedia.ut
Joe Hansen and his wife Jenna are the founders of Awaken Studios. A class based fitness studio here in our lovely state of Utah. With 2 current locations, Awaken Studios continues to grow and is on track to make a much larger footprint in the industry.
The origin story of this dynamic duo perhaps serves just a much value as does their recent success. Joe shares vivid memories of when his family was propelled into the world of entrepreneurship literally overnight. Through those beginning struggles he learned the art of working with family and becoming a leader. And just when things were about on “auto pilot”, the Covid 19 outbreak abruptly forced Joe and his team to pivot and grow.
This more than above “average Joe” is a lot of things, but he certainly is NOT a quitter.
Listen to the full interview, share, and subscribe!
IG: valemedia.ut
It doesn't take an NFL recruiter to know that Star Lotulelei has what it takes to dominate at the highest level of football. Since he started playing in high school, Star has always been touted and talked about as one of the state's best athletes. And while he maintains a quiet and humble disposition, his resume clearly speaks to the impact he makes on the field.
What's more is his "why"... his family. Lotulelei opens up about the guiding influence his family and close friends have had on him, along with lessons in perseverance and love as he looks back retrospectively. This is one to listen to more than a few times.
Listen. Download. Subscribe. Follow.
IG: valemedia.ut
With millions of views and subscribers on YouTube, Stuart Edge has become one the most notable icons on the video platform. His viral success led to traveling around the world, appearing on Jimmy Fallon, and connecting with many more.
All are able to sense Stuart's positivity and optimism through his videos and behind the scenes you'll find he's methodical and very thoughtful. Listen in and he shares his upbringing, learning the principle of vision, and coping with fear. His story and perspective will inspire and uplift.
Learn and execute.
Listen.Download.Subscribe.
IG: valemedia.ut
Chris Kesler like many has a job. And still like many he also has a "side hustle"; an idea turned project turned small business on the side. What separates Chris from the crowd is that with only his 3rd year in the market his business Badflag.com is projected to eclipse over 1 million dollars in sales. Not bad for a "side hustle" right?
With calluses earned through old fashion hard work in Montana to boardrooms of top software companies Chris shares how this all came to be. The ups and downs, mindset, and lessons learned the hard way. There are no excuses and there is always a way with Kesler.
Check it out! Download. Subscribe. Follow.
IG: @valemedia.ut
Whether you know it or not Cameron Manwaring is behind some of the most viral videos on Youtube. After working on projects that collectively rack up hundreds of millions of views, Cameron realized there was something that he knew about making videos viral. Forbes recognized this too and in 2015 they listed Manwaring as one of their "30 under 30" leaders in marketing and social media.
What's even more is that we're still scratching the surface in regards his experience and knowledge in this space. Today Cameron runs his newest company Consulting Virality, where he has helped companies around the world create and implement viral/remarkable ideas. This conversation has so many nuggets.
Listen - Download - Subscirbe
IG: valemedia.ut
Mary Lake has achieved what many aspiring young athletes dream of. Every volleyball record at BYU regarding her position requires you to take notice of her career. With opportunities to continue playing on a national level, Mary has decided to hang up her volleyball shoes (at least at that level, you can still find her tearing it up at the local rec center). Listen as Mary shares her growth as a person while being in the limelight, and how her parents played a critical role in helping her navigate through that. You'll notice her perspective is well beyond her years as she looks back at her sport with gratitude, and looks forward to the future with confidence.
Lake has plans for her 2nd volleyball camp this year and is wrapping up her accounting degree at BYU. With big plans for the future we're eager to see what new records she'll be setting here shortly.
Listen. Download. Subscribe.
IG: valemedia.ut
Through the years Dan Young has become a household name to the Utah business community. Dan's earliest years started in California, where he began developing his entrepreneurial craft at beaches selling t shirts.
After moving to Utah, Dan seized an opportunity when the company he was working for went bankrupt. So he started his first official business, PC Laptops. He lost money the first year, but quickly bounced back in year 2 with over 1 million in sales. Since then Dan has grown and expanded his business portfolio to real estate, crypto, funds, and another tech company (Xidax).
Today Dan spends a lot of his time turning outward, as a mentor. His wisdom for business, sales, and relationships serve as resources for his next mission which is... to create 1 million millionaires.
Listen in and learn as Dan's approach to success is so practical you can almost grab it.
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IG: valemedia.ut
Heber and Erica are the masterminds behind Chef Heber, the brand. Together they provide a blueprint of how to navigate through family, business, and good food.
With the new year upon us, we all have set goals to eat healthier. For some this feels like a bummer, but for those having meals prepared by Chef Heber it's exciting. If you don't believe me, check out Chef Heber's Instagram page. Today they serve some of the most influential people in our community. Listen in as the Rivera's generously share their journey of business and nutrition. Obviously the principle here is health, but if you listen closer you'll discover the principles of love, support, determination, and much more. Follow Chef Heber on instagram and order up.
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IG: valemedia.ut
Jordan Pendleton's athletic ambitions were clear as early as 5 years old, he was going to be a professional athlete. He certainly understood the price that he needed to pay and consistently demonstrated that he was willing to pay it. However when an unforeseen career ending injury was thrown into the mix, Jordan had to quickly pivot in order to stay above water. It's at this time that Pendleton tackled fear and started his company Performance 1., where he and his staff help their clients reach their physical and mental goals. Now as an entrepreneur and coach Jordan shares what he's learned thus far in his business journey and how coaching athletes can help parents coach or teach their children.
Listen - Download - Subscribe - Follow
IG: valemedia.ut
Top tier athletes, like the Mahe's, often achieve public notoriety because of their prowess on the court or field. For Reno & Sunny however, athletic accolades only scratch the surface (this includes Reno's time in the NFL and Sunny training for the olympics).
In 2016 the Mahe family endured a tragic accident involving the loss of their beautiful 3 year old daughter Elsie.
How do you get through something like that? How would you help? Is it possible to help? What does healing look like? Why this? "Why" period.
Gracefully Reno and Sunny offer a sense of peace and strength to these questions in this interview. You'll hear how they met, how they've grown, and how they press forward with remembrance.
Listen and Download
IG: valemedia.ut
Audrey Burton is a nonprofit organization expert. Today she lets us in on the mission of one of our local nonprofits that has a worldwide footprint, Interweave Solutions. She'll share her experiences in learning and understanding poverty and what the most effective way to help actually is. With passion Audrey shares the powerful impact that is being made globally. Listen in as she even lifts the curtains a bit to see the inner workings of how a nonprofit organization works. Listen, Download, Subscribe and Follow!!!
Instagram: valemedia.ut
What would it be like to hear your song on the radio? For most of us, we'll never know... Lucky for us our guest Moana Wolfgramm Feinga fills us in. Her family band, better known as The Jets, filled the radio waves around the world in the late 80's. Moana shares her unique perspective on growing up in the limelight with her family, while giving insight to the entertainment industry through a lens of honest reflection. Today you might find Feinga at her daughter's volleyball games or parent teacher conferences, as being a mother has taken priority. With that being said, Moana still has made time for performing with family and we are grateful for that! Listen, Download, & Subscribe.
Instagram: @valemedia.ut
As a life long athlete, Sunia Tauteoli certainly has been a part of many successful teams. However, you'll find that his off the field team is just as important. Tauteoli's family support system has always played a big role in his success. From his father's advice to his brother's network to his business ventures with his wife; Sunia is a family man. Through the ups and downs he has learned that his family will always be there. Perhaps this is why Tauteoli's approach to life and athletics has maintained a high level of humble confidence. Listen, download, and subscribe! Also follow us on Instagram @valemdia.ut
With millions of views on social media, the positive impact that ELENYI has made is global. Sisters Seli, Desi, & Ari are the faces and voices of the musical group but they let us know that the rest of the family also plays a crucial role in their success. The Miller sisters share their journey of culture, spirituality, and of course music in this special episode. With songs shared in so many languages, this family may have figured out the key to world peace... music. With Utah roots and a worldwide outreach listen, learn, and be inspired.
While fulfilling his dream in playing for the National Rugby League in Australia, Setefano Taukafa abruptly pivoted his life and moved to America. This move may have surprised many in the NRL community, but for those close to Setefano it was just another challenge they knew he would overcome. Taukafa showed promise from an early age as an emerging athlete, but when he decided to drop out of high school many thought his future in the sport had ended. Listen in as he shares his journey in overcoming the doubt around and within him. Setefano now lives in Utah with a rapidly growing family and has big plans for the future. His quest for success has been unconventional, yet he's continued to still accomplish the goals he has set. Download, Listen, & Subscribe!
Literally from birth, founder of software company AusMark, Austin Childs has been breaking stereotypes. Born in the Pacific and adopted to a sweet family in Utah, Austin was destined to have a unique outlook on the world. Today Austin uses that perspective to aid him in business. His company, AusMark, specializes in maximizing the performance for business teams everywhere. Crazy part is... Austin had 0 experience in the software space before this. Listen to hear Austin's special and inspiring journey. Download and Subscribe!!!
If you knew Sam Taggart as a child, you probably had a feeling that he would grow up to be successful. Sam started his business career earlier than most as a kid knocking on doors, and as an adult he hasn't quite kicked the habit. Today Taggart operates the company he founded D2D, specializing in sales strategies/recruiting/training for door to door companies. Learn how Sam identified an industry pain point and built a solution that also helps eliminate the negative stigmas associated with the door to door space. We talk business, balance, family and much more. Download & Subscribe!!!
Steve always excelled in his career as an athlete. He left his mark on the football field for the Utah Utes, New England Patriots, and Miami Dolphins. Now days you'll find Steve advocating for mental health and mindset with the same tenacity he had on the field. Steve shares his journey, the ups and downs, and how all those experiences have helped him develop to who he is today. With scars earned on and off the field, Fifita has recently started writing a book aimed at helping anyone understand their core. Understanding who you are before why. Download and subscribe!
Before her baking was showcased on national television, Alisha Nuttall was venturing off into adulthood with her twin sister. Equipped with a talent for baking sweets, Alisha saw an opportunity to turn her hobby into a business. Fast forward a few years and you’ve now witnessed the making of a cupcake empire. Listen as she shares lessons learned in business and being a parent, especially with this years pandemic. You will find that Alisha is a kind person of action, who happens to be a world class baker.
Don’t forget to stop by her shop, Cravings - Alisha’s Cupcakes,
in Pleasant Grove.
For this week only (Aug. 25-Sept. 1) use the promo code in the podcast to get a free cupcake from Cravings - Alisha’s cupcakes.
Download, Listen & Subscribe!
Speed skating and bobsledding around the world did more than boost Kassie Feinga's athletic resume. It taught her to document everything! It's a lesson she has remembered and adopted to her life still today. What started out as a side hobby to take pictures of her sons, quickly grew into a business that keeps Kassie on her toes. We learn how her grit, learned as a young athlete, helps her excel in her craft, business, and leadership. Download, Listen, & Subscribe!!
Starting and raising a family is hard enough as it is. Now try adding military duties overseas and a full time student schedule. Kime Lao shares his unique perspective on how he juggles all these very important responsibilities. Also we learn about the business he started with his young sons. Initially the project was intended to pay for little league football fees, however the mission of Lao Brothers Lawn Care has evolved to something much more valuable for Kime and his group of young entrepreneurs.
Local star athlete, Harvey Langi, lets us in on his upbringing and life today as a New York Jet. Harvey shares how athletics in his family has always been more than a game. Sports, for the gifted Langi family, has always been a means to a better life and future. Also we learn how he’s grown through his time in the NFL, a near death accident, and growing family of his own. Download & Subscribe!
One of our state's biggest advocates for child safety, Collin Kartchner, sheds light on ways we can prepare and protect our own. Getting rid of our child's social media or smartphone is not enough anymore. Listen, download, and subscribe!
With $75 to his name and a knack for cleaning windows, Kyle Grimes tells us how he turned a crisis into a viable business. His company, Clean Habits, takes ordinary window washing to a whole new level and standard. Kyle has dealt with doubters haters, and people who don’t take him serious — yet he’s been able to grow year over year and is on his way to changing the industry. Listen, subscribe, and find local inspiration!
Local Utah entrepreneur Jeremy Neves shares his journey from starting his company Xcite to making a successful exit 10 years later. Along the way Jeremy shares the lessons he learned about the importance of friends, leadership, and understanding your "why". Jeremy also dives deep into making your dreams become a reality, and he tells his side of the 5 year old Lamborghini story. Listen, download, & subscribe!