Heartbeat Narratives

Molly Mamaril
  • 5.0 (12)
  • PERSONAL JOURNALS
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Welcome to Heartbeat Narratives, a podcast that uncovers stories of joy by celebrating the people, places, and passions we love. Based in Honolulu, Hawaiʻi, guests from the islands and beyond explore what makes their hearts beat - what lights them up. Host Molly Noelaniokekai Mamaril created this space for uplifting, organic conversations that allow listeners a glimpse into people’s inner lives and interests. She feels that everyone has a valuable story and that by leading with curiosity and aloha, we will cultivate meaningful relationships. Tune in for personal stories that remind us of the power of human connection.

  1. Lily Māhealani: Aloha ʻĀina, Art and Archives

    2D AGO

    Lily Māhealani: Aloha ʻĀina, Art and Archives

    ALOHA ʻĀINA & ART · In this episode, Lily Māhealani Mitchell invites us into the in-between - between Hawaiʻi and England, painting and design, emotions and healing. She traces her path from meticulously painting roses as a kid to creating protest-inspired archival work like a hidden-ink Kumulipo typography piece that questions who knowledge is really for. Living abroad sharpened her awareness of aloha ʻāina, water, urbanization, and what it means to carry culture in spaces that don’t always reflect it back. We talk murals in underground markets, research as resistance, and why sometimes the message chooses the medium, not the other way around. This conversations is about staying rooted while roaming and becoming the sun wherever you land. Mahalo for tuning in! Learn more about Lily's art: Website: https://mahealily.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madebymahealily/ Episode Highlights 00:00 meet lily māhealani mitchell 🌺 01:49 a multi-medium artist — why pick one when you can do it all? 🎨 03:22 home: oʻahu, hawaiʻi island, england & choosing leeds beckett university 06:25 storytelling, culture, and the heartbeat behind the art 06:51 roses, realism, and learning to really see  08:58 letting the message choose the medium  10:37 inspiration abroad: missing hawaiʻi, aloha ʻāina, and community contrast 14:58 reforest leeds: water, biophilic design, and reconnecting people to ʻāina 🌿 19:12 save our surf (sos): archival posters, shoreline protests & urbanization 🌊 21:36 research as healing: archives, primary sources, and cultural continuity 25:04 kumulipo typography project: hidden knowledge, reverence, and decolonizing text 30:21 making the work: emotion, therapy, and the leeds market tunnel mural 33:37 art is for everyone  36:30 leo rising ♌ Listen & Subscribe Apple PodcastsSpotifyYoutubeHeartbeat Narratives WebsiteGuest InquiriesInterested in sharing what brings you joy? Complete our Guest Interest Form Heartbeat Narratives Book RecommendationsOur curated reading list that inspires and connects: Heartbeat Narratives on Bookshop.org Credits🎙️ Host & Producer: Molly Mamaril🎸 Guitar: Amund Gismervik A Diversity of Experiences: Guests on Heartbeat Narratives share their own perspectives and experiences. Their views do not necessarily reflect those of the host or the podcast. We invite you to listen with an open mind and enjoy the joy and insight offered from many different vantage points.

    39 min
  2. Love: Savoring this Sacred Lei of Life

    FEB 14

    Love: Savoring this Sacred Lei of Life

    PRESENCE · In this season of heart-to-hearts, we sit down with Love Chance - a mother, entrepreneur, ʻāina lover, and dreamer. She is also the founder and creative force behind The Indigenous Soap Company. Guided by ancestral wisdom and reverence for the land, Love weaves Cherokee and Hawaiian teachings into her motherhood, her business, and the way she moves with intention. What began as a chance meeting at Pāʻaiau fishpond in Pearl Harbor unfolds into a reflective conversation on presence as the doorway to joy. Love shares how she gathers meaningful moments like flowers in a sacred lei, snapshots to be treasured and carried forward. Along the way, she offers insights on conscious entrepreneurship, happy soap stories and leading with aloha. Mahalo for joining us on this path to living in the moment.  Episode Highlights 00:52 A chance encounter 02:07 What’s in a name? The love story 03:41 Roots, rituals, and where we come from 06:43 Aloha everywhere: the Hawaiian diaspora 09:53 Finding joy in the now 12:45 Lāʻau lapaʻau, plant medicine 16:34 Sacred beginnings: Hawaiian birth wisdom 20:02 From vision to lather: the soap origin story 21:34 How Hawaiʻi happened (unexpectedly) 22:27 Expanding The Indigenous Soap Company   23:07 Babies, business, and balance 24:56 Entrepreneurship  26:53 Aloha forward: business with intention 30:53 Creative sparks and muses 33:09 Happy soap  36:54 Gratitude    Learn more about Indigenous Soap Company: 🌿 Website: https://www.indigenousoap.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indigenoussoap/?hl=en Listen & Subscribe Apple PodcastsSpotifyYoutubeHeartbeat Narratives WebsiteGuest InquiriesInterested in sharing what brings you joy? Complete our Guest Interest Form Heartbeat Narratives Book RecommendationsOur curated reading list that inspires and connects: Heartbeat Narratives on Bookshop.org Credits🎙️ Host & Producer: Molly Mamaril🎸 Guitar: Amund Gismervik A Diversity of Experiences: Guests on Heartbeat Narratives share their own perspectives and experiences. Their views do not necessarily reflect those of the host or the podcast. We invite you to listen with an open mind and enjoy the joy and insight offered from many different vantage points.

    41 min
  3. Teron: "What if I'm Enough?"

    FEB 11

    Teron: "What if I'm Enough?"

    What does it mean to believe you are enough? In this episode of Heartbeat Narratives, Teron Buford, author, storyteller, and founder of Grace Through Soul, joins the conversation for a reflective discussion on identity and self-worth. Teron and Molly reconnect as friends from their college days, reflecting on how shared history deepens the conversation. Based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Teron shares how his life experiences have shaped his approach to leadership, fatherhood, and service. He reflects on insights from his book, "What If I’m Enough?" and the roles that storytelling and love play in making meaning of our lives. The conversation explores vulnerability, masculinity, and a reminder that your story isn’t a shackle, it’s the key. Teron’s Website: https://www.gracethroughsoul.com/ Buy the Book “What If I’m Enough?” https://www.gracethroughsoul.com/about-3 Episode Highlights 02:34 Reconnecting 03:31 Teron's journey and life lessons 09:57 Role Models: the candy fundraiser story 16:28 Reflections on identity and vulnerability 21:49 Meeting Dee: a love story 27:22 Living fully and embracing the present 38:01 Future plans Listen & Subscribe Apple PodcastsSpotifyYoutubeHeartbeat Narratives WebsiteGuest InquiriesInterested in sharing what brings you joy? Complete our Guest Interest Form Heartbeat Narratives Book RecommendationsOur curated reading list that inspires and connects: Heartbeat Narratives on Bookshop.org Credits🎙️ Host & Producer: Molly Mamaril🎸 Guitar: Amund Gismervik A Diversity of Experiences: Guests on Heartbeat Narratives share their own perspectives and experiences. Their views do not necessarily reflect those of the host or the podcast. We invite you to listen with an open mind and enjoy the joy and insight offered from many different vantage points.

    42 min
  4. Dignity Next Door: Be the Blue-Sky Neighbor

    FEB 7

    Dignity Next Door: Be the Blue-Sky Neighbor

    GOOD NEIGHBORS · In this solo episode, I reflect on what it means to be a good neighbor during a time of uncertainty and injustice. While I touch on ICE operations in Minnesota, my aim is to move beyond politics and into a place of shared humanity and respect for dignity. I’ve noticed that most of my neighbor interactions happen during crisis, and I wonder how much stronger our communities could be if we connected in everyday blue-sky moments too. I share stories from Minneapolis and Hawaiʻi, from neighbors stepping up to strangers showing unexpected kindness. Letʻs see the dignity in the people next door and choose again and again, to show up for one another. Ways to show solidarity with Minnesota communities: https://minnesotanonprofits.org/ally-solidarity Episode Highlights 00:52 — We see you, Minneapolis 01:37 — “Good neighbors”: Esther Perel’s insight on caring for others 03:11 — Minnesota Nice: reflecting on ICE operations in the Twin Cities and the kind ways neighbors are stepping up 04:59 — "Choose one's own way": Viktor Frankl's teachings on cultivating resilience during the Holocaust  06:56 — Brave breakfast conversations: unexpected honesty, history repeating, and the urgent need to speak up  09:26 — Aloha in action: how strangers have shown me kindness over the years  13:49 — Lessons from the woods: a simulation of the Secret War, building empathy with immigrant communities and never being a bystander  19:28 — Dignity next door: my heart sees your heart   Listen & Subscribe Apple PodcastsSpotifyYoutubeHeartbeat Narratives WebsiteGuest InquiriesInterested in sharing what brings you joy? Complete our Guest Interest Form Heartbeat Narratives Book RecommendationsOur curated reading list that inspires and connects: Heartbeat Narratives on Bookshop.org Credits🎙️ Host & Producer: Molly Mamaril🎸 Guitar: Amund Gismervik A Diversity of Experiences: Guests on Heartbeat Narratives share their own perspectives and experiences. Their views do not necessarily reflect those of the host or the podcast. We invite you to listen with an open mind and enjoy the joy and insight offered from many different vantage points.

    20 min
  5. Kau'i: Hanahau'oli — Joyous Work in the Classroom

    JAN 28

    Kau'i: Hanahau'oli — Joyous Work in the Classroom

    HANAHAU'OLI: JOYOUS WORK · Step back into the magic of elementary school as Kauʻi, an Oʻahu-based elementary school principal, shares how care and heart guide her work in education and leadership. From the power of a welcoming classroom to the small, meaningful moments that shape a child’s day, she reflects on why elementary school environments matter so deeply. Caring for our keiki extends beyond academics - it’s about helping children feel seen, safe, and supported every day. Through stories from campus life, Kauʻi highlights the humor, connection, and humanity that show up in everyday interactions with students. This episode is an honest, uplifting look at education rooted in presence and relationships. Mahalo for tuning in! Episode Highlights 01:04 🏫 Welcome to Our Classroom – Creating a Joyful School Environment 02:04 ✏️ Lessons That Stick – Why Elementary School Matters 03:38 🌺 Where I’m From – Growing Up in Hawaiʻi 04:20 🌈 Joyful Work – Loving Life in Education 11:49 ⚖️ Recess Balance – Managing Work and Real Life 14:21 😂  Students & Classroom Laughs 16:13 🧠 Third Grade Clicks – When Learning Starts to Connect 19:10 ☀️ Best Day Ever – What Fills the Cup 20:13 💛 End of the School Day – Gratitude and Reflection Listen & Subscribe Apple PodcastsSpotifyYoutubeHeartbeat Narratives WebsiteGuest InquiriesInterested in sharing what brings you joy? Complete our Guest Interest Form Heartbeat Narratives Book RecommendationsOur curated reading list that inspires and connects: Heartbeat Narratives on Bookshop.org Credits🎙️ Host & Producer: Molly Mamaril🎸 Guitar: Amund Gismervik A Diversity of Experiences: Guests on Heartbeat Narratives share their own perspectives and experiences. Their views do not necessarily reflect those of the host or the podcast. We invite you to listen with an open mind and enjoy the joy and insight offered from many different vantage points.

    24 min
  6. In Flux: Dancing Between Shadows and Light [mini]

    JAN 14

    In Flux: Dancing Between Shadows and Light [mini]

    Aloha · In this first mini episode of 2026, we explore pivots - pivots to slow down, to shift energy, and to find grounding amidst chaos. Together, let’s uncover ways to dance through it all. I’m grateful for your support, feedback, and stories over the past twelve months since we launched Heartbeat Narratives. Mahalo for listening and sharing this journey with me. As we step into the new year, please consider rating and reviewing Heartbeat Narratives on Spotify or Apple Podcasts - your stars mean so much. We’d also love for you to fill out our Listener Survey. Mahalo nui loa ~ Episode Highlights Episode Highlights 00:00 🌺 Aloha 2026, let’s go 01:01 📖 Looking back  02:11 🎤 New year, new podcast rhythm 02:53 🕊️ Slowing down and filling my cup 03:43 🤝 Roses, Thorns and Buds 04:04 🤎 Giving forward 08:47 🔄  Storytelling through truth, Queen Lili'uokalani's wisdom 12:13 🔹 Dancing through the unknown 15:11 🔮 Looking ahead Listen & Subscribe Apple PodcastsSpotifyYoutubeHeartbeat Narratives WebsiteGuest InquiriesInterested in sharing what brings you joy? Complete our Guest Interest Form Heartbeat Narratives Book RecommendationsOur curated reading list that inspires and connects: Heartbeat Narratives on Bookshop.org Credits🎙️ Host & Producer: Molly Mamaril🎸 Guitar: Amund Gismervik A Diversity of Experiences: Guests on Heartbeat Narratives share their own perspectives and experiences. Their views do not necessarily reflect those of the host or the podcast. We invite you to listen with an open mind and enjoy the joy and insight offered from many different vantage points.

    16 min
  7. Amund: Diving Into Your Best Self

    JAN 7

    Amund: Diving Into Your Best Self

    DO YOUR BEST · This week, Heartbeat Narratives turns 1! To mark the milestone, we welcome the most requested guest, Amund Gismervik, a steady presence who has quietly shaped the podcast behind the scenes. Note: he is the guitarist behind the podcast's intro and outro music! A lifelong athlete with a deep passion for springboard and platform diving, Amund has transformed his love for the sport into coaching. Born and raised in Norway, he followed his zest for diving to Hawaiʻi on a University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa scholarship and later represented Norway in the 10-meter platform at the 2012 London Olympics. In this conversation, Amund shares what makes his heart beat - from adrenaline and meticulous training to travel, and life beyond competition. This episode is a reflection on courage and doing your best, offering an example of what can unfold when you fully show up for what you love. Episode highlights 00:00 Heartbeat turns 1!  02:07 Amund’s journey from Norway to Hawaiʻi 07:29 Discovering a lifelong love for diving 10:37 Lessons learned through international competition 17:41 Olympic dreams and a defining moment 23:22 Training, coaching, and growth 30:26 Life beyond diving   🎥 VideosInstagram Reel — Amund at 2025 Singapore Masters Vimeo — Amund Gismervik Interview / Olympic and UH Mānoa Feature    Listen & Subscribe Apple PodcastsSpotifyYoutubeHeartbeat Narratives WebsiteGuest InquiriesInterested in sharing what brings you joy? Complete our Guest Interest Form Heartbeat Narratives Book RecommendationsOur curated reading list that inspires and connects: Heartbeat Narratives on Bookshop.org Credits🎙️ Host & Producer: Molly Mamaril🎸 Guitar: Amund Gismervik A Diversity of Experiences: Guests on Heartbeat Narratives share their own perspectives and experiences. Their views do not necessarily reflect those of the host or the podcast. We invite you to listen with an open mind and enjoy the joy and insight offered from many different vantage points.

    35 min
  8. Sean: Every Word Counts — Playwriting from the Big Island to the Big Apple

    12/31/2025

    Sean: Every Word Counts — Playwriting from the Big Island to the Big Apple

    EVERY WORD COUNTS · In this episode, playwright Sean Dunnington shares stories that travel as freely as he does from Hawaiʻi Island to New York, Singapore, and beyond. He reflects on growing up in the misty hills of Waimea, finding refuge in theater, and learning how art can belong anywhere including libraries, community circles, and far off stages. The conversation drifts through queerness, power, memory, and the  magic of theatricality when life is mirrored onstage. Sean explores how his writing has evolved from personal survival to creative world building, and how playwriting can be a communal, living practice. This fun, flowing conversation is a reflection of the radical intimacy of telling stories out loud. Episode Highlights 02:12 Opening Scene Growing up in Waimea and peering into the world of theater. 05:06 Finding the Stage Discovering playwriting as refuge and an invitation to imagine new worlds. 09:37 Moments of Illusion Formative theater experiences and the performances that transformed spectatorship into devotion. 12:40 Behind the Script The writing process, deadlines, and the challenges of making meaning on the page. 20:26 Ensemble Building The creation of Tree Moss Collective and reimagining what playwriting in Hawaiʻi can be. 24:49 The Circle Widens Playwriting as communal process, storytelling as listening, and theater as a place of healing. 33:19 Final Curtain Where to find Sean’s work and what comes next beyond the stage. To explore more of Sean work and writing, visit https://www.seandunnington.com/ and learn about Tree Moss Collective at https://www.treemosshawaii.com/ . Listen & Subscribe Apple PodcastsSpotifyYoutubeHeartbeat Narratives WebsiteGuest InquiriesInterested in sharing what brings you joy? Complete our Guest Interest Form Heartbeat Narratives Book RecommendationsOur curated reading list that inspires and connects: Heartbeat Narratives on Bookshop.org Credits🎙️ Host & Producer: Molly Mamaril🎸 Guitar: Amund Gismervik A Diversity of Experiences: Guests on Heartbeat Narratives share their own perspectives and experiences. Their views do not necessarily reflect those of the host or the podcast. We invite you to listen with an open mind and enjoy the joy and insight offered from many different vantage points.

    35 min
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5
out of 5
12 Ratings

About

Welcome to Heartbeat Narratives, a podcast that uncovers stories of joy by celebrating the people, places, and passions we love. Based in Honolulu, Hawaiʻi, guests from the islands and beyond explore what makes their hearts beat - what lights them up. Host Molly Noelaniokekai Mamaril created this space for uplifting, organic conversations that allow listeners a glimpse into people’s inner lives and interests. She feels that everyone has a valuable story and that by leading with curiosity and aloha, we will cultivate meaningful relationships. Tune in for personal stories that remind us of the power of human connection.

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