From Wine to Winning: Meli James on Entrepreneurship and Hawaiian Talent
Episode Overview
An engaging conversation with Meli James, co-founder of Mana Up, delving into entrepreneurship and community support Insights into the journey of Mana Up and the challenges of entrepreneurship Exploration of the essence of Hawaiian music and the success of local talent Discussion on the significance of radio in supporting local artists and the power of community Anuhea's reminder that every experience is an opportunity to learn and you're never alone
I love that success is never final. It's really about the journey, having a learning mentality, and taking ownership of your life. Every experience is an opportunity to learn.
Ever wondered what it takes to turn a local idea into a global success? Anuhea sits down with Meli James, co-founder of Mana Up, to chat about the rollercoaster ride of entrepreneurship. Born and raised on Oahu, Meli's story is one of grit and glamour. She's not just a business mogul; she's also a wine enthusiast, with Louis Martini 2020 being the evening's favorite.
They dive into the creation and growth of Mana Up, a business accelerator that's now in its 8th Cohort, helping Hawaiian entrepreneurs like Kimie Miner and her Haku Collective scale new heights. But it's not all business talk. Anuhea and Meli share personal stories that shaped their paths, discussing the importance of authenticity and self-care in a demanding entrepreneurial world.
They also get excited about the upcoming Mana Up Showcase at the Hawaii Convention Center, where Anuhea will be performing live. This episode isn't just about business; it's a celebration of Hawaiian culture and community. They explore the role of radio in boosting local musical talent and discuss how Hawaiian music is making waves globally. Meli shares her experiences with radical candor and the lessons learned from her entrepreneurial journey.
Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a music lover, or someone who enjoys a good success story, this episode has something for everyone. Tune in to hear how Mana Up is reshaping Hawaii's entrepreneurial landscape and get inspired by the power of community and resilience.