Meet the season 16 hosts

As Season 16 of Ke Alakaʻi: The Podcast begins, the hosts take turns in the “hot seat” to give listeners a closer look at who they are beyond the microphone. The episode explored childhood memories, dating culture at BYUH, music tastes and upbringing, offering listeners a glimpse into the experiences that have shaped each host. Nicole Olson, Ke Alakaʻi’s managing editor, also joined in on the game.

Returning to the podcast for Season 16 is Julia Aunai. Aunai, a junior studying communication, media and culture from California, shared more about her background and interesting moments so far at BYU–Hawaii. Shinihah Notarte Orr, student managing editor for Ke Alakaʻi: The Podcast, called Aunai fun and creative. “She has the initiative to come to us if she has any concerns or if she needs help. She is not afraid to ask a question,” Orr remarked.

Back for his second season is Alden Pua, a sophomore majoring in communications, media and culture from Indonesia. From moving to a new country to sharing his K-POP bias, Pua discussed more personal observations in the segment. Orr said “persistent” best describes Pua. “I think if he has a project that he's working on, then he would really give it his all and try his best,” she added.

The podcast also welcomed a new host, Rossy Valdez, a communication, media and culture student from the Philippines. Valdez filled listeners in on her personal history growing up with 10 siblings and her time as a writer at Ke Alakaʻi. Orr labeled Valdez as “dynamite,” adding “She [may be] small, but she has a lot of energy.” Orr also said Valdez brings personality and life to the office.

The episode introduced Nicole Olson, Ke Alakaʻi’s new managing editor. Olson, who joined the team in June, described her role as being the final set of eyes for projects from the team. Since Ke Alaka‘i has gone without an advisor for a year, Orr said Olson’s addition has been invaluable. “She was the missing foundation the team needed,” Orr said.