WE670: Recent Episodes
MDTV Productions
WE670 explores the history, culture and lifestyles of the Northern Mariana Islands. Our mission is to foster an ongoing discussion about who we we were, who we are and who we will become as Pacific Islanders, citizens and community members.
The Proa is a voyaging outrigger canoe that was utilized by the ancient Chamorros, often regarded by many outside accounts as one of the most fascinating and advanced forms of watercraft at the time, and it remains a symbol of exploration and adventure for the people of the Marianas. In the 2023, we are faced with new concerns and considerations when it comes to efficient, reliable and sustainable transportation. Shigeki Tenorio, son of the Marianas and Operations Manager at Pacifica Insurance, discusses what the future of movement can look like in the islands and how the introduction of electric vehicles can help us to carry on our legacy as voyagers.
Edit: At 26:21, the islands in question are the Cook Islands, not the U.S. Virgin Islands.
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Chewing betel nut or pugua has remained a social and cultural custom in the Marianas for centuries. Over the years, this ritual has turned into an addiction for some, an effect that can be attributed to new additives and a lack of resources aimed at supporting those who wish to kick the habit. Sami Birmingham-Babauta, a daughter of the Marianas and current PhD candidate, explores the factors that enable these dependent behaviors and shares ways in which she believes we can maintain our traditions while also healing our addictions.
You can read Sami's thesis here: https://digital.lib.washington.edu/researchworks/handle/1773/48679
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The ancient Chamorros were described as healthy people who lived long lives. These traits were attributed to their diet and the physical requirements of their environment at the time. In 2023, the CNMI has become accustomed to a variety of new foods, as well as new challenges that arise when trying to balance our eating habits with living a healthy lifestyle. Elizabeth Tenorio, a daughter of the CNMI, is currently pursuing her masters in nutrition and discusses her personal health journey and her attempts to reconnect with our ancestors way of eating.
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Haruji Matsue reshaped the Northern Mariana Islands in the early 20th century by revitalizing the dwindling sugarcane industry in Saipan. By the 1930's, Matsue and the South Seas Development Company were exporting massive amounts of sugar that were worth millions, thus firmly establishing the Marianas as a net asset for Japan. Almost a hundred years later, a young entrepreneur of CNMI descent is looking to make a name for himself by, once again, revisiting the potential of sugarcane products in our islands.
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Pacific Islander representation in general leaves a lot to be desired in mainstream American media, let alone representation of the Marianas and her people. With countless conversations being had concerning if and how islanders are portrayed, I am left wondering where our people are on the big screens, who is telling our stories and what exactly is being said? Do we see ourselves in the media we consume? And if not, how do we ensure that our stories are being told and, more importantly, shared in a way that is true to who we are and where we come from?
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One of the most prominent attributes of the Marianas is our particular brand of island humor. This is gloriously exemplified through the creative efforts of Palm Trio, a CNMI internet sensation who began creating content in 2021. This hilarious team is made up by Jeff, Lou and Loyd, and all of the content they create, whether it be a skit, interview, or mukbang, guarantees their audience laughter, entertainment and a special connection to the Marianas and her people. Through their work, they are not only giving us all something to laugh at, but also a new and solid sense of pride in our islands and the CNMI way of life.
The increased visibility of the LGBTQIA+ community has not challenged the Marianas, but rather presents the question of how we can take the values of love and compassion, values which are intrinsic to our islands, and have them evolve with the times in order to create a more loving and understanding future for not just the LGBTQIA+ community, but for everyone who has the privilege of calling these islands their home. In this chapter, I interview Dan and Zenn, who both work tirelessly in service of this cause. Together, we try and determine what a better future would look like, and how we would get there.
Being from a small island, being Chamorro, being a Pacific Islander, being indigenous, all play a significant role in defining who we are as individuals and as a community. But how do these specific factors intertwine with other facets of our identity that are not exclusively associated with these traits? This and other similar questions are at the forefront of the discussion when it comes to being a member of the LGBTQIA+ community as well as a progeny of the CNMI. In this chapter, I interview Kiku, K’nilis and Kika and also add my own two cents about the experience of trying to merge these two vibrant identities. Together, we attempt to answer the question of “What does it mean to be queer in the Marianas?”
Saipan and the CNMI have so much to offer, both to locals and visitors alike. However, depending on what you are seeking at a particular moment in your life, you might find yourself thinking about what lies beyond our waters and what you could possibly find there. This is a question I am faced with from time to time, despite the fact that I feel like Saipan is where I should be for now. In this episode, I interview Victoria Bellas, a young professional with skills and a personality that would thrive in almost any environment. Together, we tackle the question of, "I could be anywhere, so why am I here?"
Who are we, how did we get here, and where are we going? These are deeply complex questions that have been on my mind lately as I attempt to awaken the dormant parts of my identity as a Pacific Islander and son of the CNMI. In this episode, I converse with former congresswoman, community activist and warrior for our islands, Sheila Babauta, and we attempt to answer these and other questions, as well as uncover the unique factors that have led us to the current understandings of our islands and of ourselves.
Welcome to the WE670 Artists Collective, an ongoing series that dives into the minds and creative processes of local artists. In this volume, I speak to two of Saipan's most prolific photographers, Myla Capilitan Deetz and Samantha Salamon. Join us as we discuss their journeys as creators and small business owners, as well as tips and advice for aspiring photographers.
Follow Myla on IG at @mycapituresphotogrpahy
Follow Samantha on IG @sammmiiiey.photo
Our last episode marks one entire month of consecutive WE670 content and we have gained invaluable insight from the stories of our fantastic guests. In this chapter, I will be discussing all of the lessons learned since embarking on this journey and how these new perspectives of the island and it's people are transforming both my professional and personal worlds for the better.
Bernard spent the majority of his formative years in Oregon, but recently moved back home to Saipan in order to help run the family business, as well as pursue his own aspirations. The move provided him with new perspectives, both in his professional and personal life, and continues to reveal unique opportunities that he wouldn't necessarily have been able to discover if he were elsewhere. Listen as we discuss his upbringing in the Pacific Northwest, how he is reconnecting with the culture, and what gifts the island has given him on his journey to building his ideal life.
Bernard is also a podcast compatriot and captains his own show, The Pacific Islanders Podcast, which you can follow on Instagram, TikTok (@pacificislanderspodcast) and Twitter (@islanderspodcast).
Being single and on the hunt for love can be difficult, no matter where you live. But the 13 miles of Saipan present a special kind of difficult for even the most seasoned single residents, let alone a newcomer who is unfamiliar with the island and its ways. In this episode, we meet Tina, a recent transplant from San Francisco and learn about her dating experiences in the CNMI as well as notable takeaways about Chamorro courtship culture.
WE670 is a weekly podcast that explores the history, cultures and lifestyles of the Northern Mariana Islands.
Our mission is to foster an ongoing discussion about who we were, who we are and who we will become as Pacific Islanders, citizens and community members of the CNMI.
New episodes every Wednesday!
YouTube.com/WE670
Patreon.com/WE670
Instagram @we670ig
TikTok @we670tt
Many of you may recognize our next guest from TikTok and Instagram, where she showcases her impeccable eye for local cuisine and digital aesthetics. Better known by her handle, @bula.lulu, Tiara is a content creator, food blogger, mother and one of the CNMI's most eligible bachelorettes. Join us as we discuss anything and everything about living single, romance and dating in the Northern Mariana Islands.
Follow Tiara and her adventures on TikTok and Instagram @bula.lulu
Socials
Youtube.com/WE670
Instagram @we670ig
Tiktok @we670tt
WE670 is a weekly podcast that explores the history, culture and lifestyles of the Northern Mariana Islands. Our mission is to foster an ongoing discussion about who we we were, who we are and who we will become as pacific islanders, citizens and community members.
Support us on Patreon!
https://patreon.com/we670
By becoming a patron, you will gain access to exclusive content and perks such as our After Show, Q&A's, early access to merchandise, as well as a behind the scenes look at what happens before and after recording.
Your support will help us to tell the stories of these beautiful islands and the fascinating and vibrant people that call it their home.
Ashley Pangelinan is the vibrant proprietor of Pualani Crown, one half of Local Girls Lemonada, and a prominent face of the WE670 brand.
Join us as we discuss the triumphs and challenges of running a small business as well as other unique nuances to life here in the Northern Mariana Islands.
WE670 is an ongoing discussion about the history, cultures and lifestyles of the CNMI. New episodes every Wednesday!
Follow Ashley and her adventures on Instagram @ashurireiko
Socials
Instagram @we670ig
Tiktok @we670tt
WE670 is a weekly podcast that aims to explore the history, culture and lifestyles of the Northern Mariana Islands. Our mission is to foster an ongoing discussion about who we we were, who we are and who we will become as pacific islanders, citizens and community members.
Support us on Patreon!
https://patreon.com/we670
By becoming a patron, you will gain access to exclusive content and perks such as our After Show, Q&A's, early access to merchandise, as well as a behind the scenes look at what happens before and after recording.
Your support will help us to tell the stories of these beautiful islands and the fascinating and vibrant people that call it their home.