The Waka Family Podcast

Two Fijian-Canadian guys (Jon and Thomas Mills)talk about navigating cultural identity, family ties, and heritage. They reflect on growing up with Fijian roots outside Fiji, the challenges of maintaining connections, and the joys of embracing both cultures. The conversation covers raising families, adapting to new environments, and balancing tradition with modern life. Through personal anecdotes, the episode highlights the importance of community, pride, and resilience for those living far from their ancestral homeland, offering advice and encouragement to others on similar journeys.

Jon and Steph shares candid updates on family life, home renovations, and farming in Fiji. They discuss moving into a temporary house while their new home is built, reflect on the challenges and cultural norms of living with extended family, and share excitement about future plans for their farmhouse and outdoor gatherings, an more. Thanks for joining!

Today's guest is Fayzaan Hussein, a young entrepreneur and founder of Hive Construction, who is building our farmhouse in Fiji. He shares his journey from a challenging upbringing to launching his own business. We chat about the construction industry's challenges, innovative business practices, and the power of authenticity and social media in building trust and brand recognition.

Jon and Steph engage in lively, informal conversation, blending humor, storytelling, and candid reflections. They share jokes, discuss cultural observations, and recount personal anecdotes about travel, hosting guests, and navigating generational slang. They explore topics like reality TV, attraction, entrepreneurship, and the challenges of moving homes. Playful banter and teasing highlight their camaraderie, while moments of vulnerability, such as coping with housing stress add depth.

Jon and Steph reflect on their differing upbringings, parenting philosophies, and how these shape their relationship and family life in Fiji. They discuss discipline, trust, and the impact of moving abroad, while sharing lighthearted memories of past adventures and current hobbies like spearfishing. They also plays a relationship card game, prompting candid conversations about overthinking, personal growth, and pivotal life decisions. Their honest, humorous exchanges highlight the challenges and joys of partnership, parenting, and adapting to new environments together.

I had the pleasure of sitting down and chatting with Steven Andrews, General Manager of Castaway Island Resort, who discusses his upbringing, career journey, and leadership philosophy rooted in faith, family values, and community. Stephen touched on sustainable tourism, conservation efforts like the iguana relocation project, and fostering a supportive team culture. He gave out his tips and advice for young people aspiring to succeed in hospitality, offering a heartfelt look at personal growth and the importance of giving back.

Steph and Jon sit down to talk about what life's really like for their family in Fiji: from dealing with bugs and cooking meals to figuring out family roles. They open up about starting fresh in their 30s, and how mindset plays a big part in getting through tough seasons. They talk parenting, money, and how they try to keep things real online without giving away too much. There's a bit on loyalty, some song lyric reviews, and honest thoughts on raising kids in the public eye.

The family reflects on their recent two-and-a-half-month trip to Canada, sharing highlights and challenges. Steph, engages with Eliki and Seva about their experiences, including homeschooling and family activities. Jon joins later, discussing their day in town, diet, and life reflections. The conversation covers various topics, from the importance of strategy in games to the complexities of adult responsibilities and business challenges. The episode blends humor, nostalgia, and candid reflections, capturing the essence of family dynamics and the importance of shared experiences and communication.

I sat down with Waisale Serevi to hear his story, and I was not expecting to hear stories I never knew about his life. Some stories fun—some emotional. But the craziest part? He really didn't hold back. So join me, Jonathan, as we pull back the layers with one of the best rugby players of all time to ever represent our Fiji.

In this episode we have a chat with WWF Pacific. Jonathan and Kara from WWF Pacific discuss turtle conservation on Kavewa Island, specifically focused on the critically endangered Hawksbill Turtle. Jonathan shares his Fijian heritage and his family's move to Fiji in 2020, focusing on creating employment through responsible resource utilization. He envisions supporting the Fiji national rugby team and fostering local culture. Kara, with a background in environmental science, details her work in turtle conservation, emphasizing the integration of traditional knowledge with scientific methods. They highlight the importance of community involvement, technology, and cultural sensitivity in conservation efforts, aiming for sustainable and impactful outcomes. Jonathan then takes on the conversation with Dr. Hugo, the Marine Program Coordinator for WWF New Caledonia. Chatting about his experience in Northern Fiji, what he has been able to pass on to us in Fiji because of his past experience with satellite tagging turtles, and he sure drops a lot of knowledge on Jonathan in this one! What a special guy.

Jon and Dave engage in a reflective conversation on themes of perseverance, waiting, and personal growth within a Christian context. They discuss the difference between joy and happiness, aging and the passage of time, highlighting the importance of active waiting and finding purpose in life's waiting periods. They also touch on practical aspects of life in Fiji, including transportation challenges. The episode encourages listeners to embrace waiting as an opportunity for growth and to find joy in their journeys.

In this podcast episode, Jon and Steph engage in a heartfelt and humorous conversation about the significance of old friendships and personal experiences. They reflect on the depth of relationships formed during their youth, contrasting them with newer, more superficial connections. The discussion touches on the bittersweet nature of growing apart from close friends and the importance of cherishing moments with loved ones. They also delve into societal expectations around emotional expression, particularly for men, and share light-hearted banter about nostalgic media and potential sponsorships. The episode blends nostalgia, humor, and introspection, offering a relatable glimpse into their lives.

In this episode of "On the Mat," Jon and guest Dave engage in a conversation about life in Fiji, farming, and their pasts. Dave, a pastor, farmer, and woodworker, shares his experiences with woodworking projects, the establishment of their farm, "Pneuma Hill Farms", and their positive experiences with Investment Fiji. Amidst humorous stories about vehicles and personal reflections, they emphasize the importance of community, faith, and intentional relationships.

We got to hang out with the founders of the Vou Dance Company, Eddie and Sachiko Soro. Eddie shares how a knee injury led him from rugby to dance, eventually forming the Vou Dance Company alongside his wife, Sachiko, who was also his dance teacher. They discuss the group's evolution, blending traditional Fijian elements with contemporary styles, and the recent venture into the "Fijian Flying Circus." They talked about the challenges and rewards of their artistic journey, the importance of storytelling in their performances, and their commitment to showcasing Fijian culture through innovative dance and circus arts.

In this engaging podcast episode, Jon and Stephanie discuss their experiences during a recent two-month separation, touching on personal topics such as health issues, family dynamics, and public speaking challenges. Stephanie shares her struggles with jet lag and a boil on her eye after returning from Canada, while Jon humorously engages in conversations about their children and household dynamics. They reflect on the difficulties of long-distance relationships and the importance of live interactions over scripted speeches. Additionally, they discuss their plans for building a new home, emphasizing practical considerations and the importance of community support.

In this podcast episode, John and Dave engage in a casual yet profound conversation about their lives in Fiji, touching on personal experiences, community, and faith. They reminisce about their unique encounters, including how they met and the cultural nuances of living in Fiji. Dave shares his background as a woodworker and youth wrestling coach, emphasizing the importance of resilience and community support. They discuss the impact of loss, particularly Dave's experience with his son Justin's accident, and how faith and community helped them cope. The episode blends humor, personal anecdotes, and reflections on discipleship and parenting.

In this episode, Koroi is our Farm Manager, who is from Moturiki Island in Fiji. Koroi shares his upbringing in Fiji, discussing family responsibilities, education, and his diverse experiences, including forestry and traditional sailing Koroi joined Jonathan also talked about the announcement of the 15-man squad for the Paris Olympics, highlighting their excitement for the rugby sevens team. The conversation also touches on personal anecdotes, such as the emotional impact of family losses and future aspirations. They explore broader societal issues like public space beautification, vandalism, and negative media portrayals of Fiji. The episode concludes with discussions on employment dynamics and upcoming podcast plans.

In this podcast episode, Jon and Steph, discuss their experiences with childbirth, administrative tasks in Fiji, and the traditional roles of men and women in providing for the family. A question is asked about why men should always be the financial providers in a relationship. The couple also touches on their move to Fiji, homeschooling challenges, and their desire to contribute positively to their community. Thanks for joining!!

Join Jon and Steph in this episode of our podcast as we dive into a fun chat filled with laughter and real-life moments with our kiddos. From hilarious holiday mishaps (ever dealt with a bathroom flood?) to navigating the wild world of parenting, social media, and our favorite outdoor adventures like spearfishing and snorkeling, we cover it all. Plus, we get real about the importance of keeping those lines of communication open at home, especially when it comes to the tough stuff. And hey, we even touch on some serious topics like HIV awareness and why privacy matters in medical situations. Join us for a mix of laughter and heart-to-hearts in this episode that's all about keeping it real.

In this podcast episode, Jonathan and Stephanie delve into a candid discussion about their personal experiences and parenting approaches. They reflect on their childhood freedoms, the influence of their upbringings, and the challenges of maintaining friendships. The couple also addresses the impact of toxic relationships and the importance of genuine connections. They express concerns about societal attitudes towards sex and relationships, especially within the context of their Christian faith. The episode highlights the importance of open conversations with children about sexuality and the dangers of pornography, with Jonathan sharing his struggles and the proactive talks he has with his sons. The couple emphasizes the need for shame-free discussions and fostering respect and self-confidence in their children to navigate body and relationship issues. The episode is a blend of personal anecdotes, reflections on societal issues, and the couple's commitment to supportive parenting.

Jonathan and Stephanie, reflect on their recent trip to Suva, Fiji, meeting interesting people like Bruce from Zoom Fiji. They discuss the cultural differences in taxi conditions and reminisce about their first date and early relationship memories. The couple also shares their love for books like "Redeeming Love" by Francine Rivers, movies, and the importance of capturing family history. They consider translating a book into Fijian to preserve their grandparents' stories and discuss the impact of sports on their lives.

In this podcast episode, Jonathan and Stephanie engage in a heartfelt and humorous discussion about their personal lives, including parenting fears, health concerns for their children, and the emotional impact of family. They candidly share their experiences with pregnancy, a vasectomy decision, and Stephanie's sister's childbirth challenges. The conversation also touches on end-of-life wishes, the legacy they want to leave, and the importance of loyalty and faith. They balance the serious topics with light-hearted banter and answer audience questions, even promoting their merchandise. The episode is a blend of vulnerability, humor, and genuine reflection on life's profound moments.

In this podcast episode, Jon and Steph engage in a light-hearted and informal chat, covering a range of topics from personal anecdotes to pop culture. They discuss the behind-the-scenes of their podcast, including potential sponsors and their children's antics. The conversation also veers into their personal experiences with cleaning injuries, baking apple crisp, and one speaker's heritage. Additionally, they touch on the Kardashian family and OJ Simpson, blending current events with their own stories.

Stephanie and Jon share their recent travel experiences, including Steph and her friend from Canada (Roz) stay at various hotels in Fiji and their participation in a Women's Convention as speakers. They discuss the influence of mentors on their entrepreneurial journey and their approach to handling criticism, particularly in response to negative social media comments. They also reflect on their personal challenges and the dynamics of their living situation. Thanks for joining!

In this podcast episode, John and Steph engage in a candid discussion about their personal experiences with sex and marriage. Steph opens up about the pressures of occasion sex and the difficulties couples may face in satisfying each other's desires. They explore the societal expectations and marital challenges, particularly post-childbirth, sharing how they navigated a period of diminished intimacy. The conversation also addresses the cultural and religious influences on attitudes towards sex within marriage, underscoring the significance of communication and understanding between partners. The episode offers an honest look at the complexities of sexual relationships in the context of marriage.

In this podcast episode, Jon and Steph discuss a range of personal and community issues. They talk about an ex-employee's family challenges due to relocation, the cultural implications of baby naming, and the quirks of neighborhood relations involving a barking dog. This is a personal and funny one as they talk family, culture and community. Thanks for joining!

Steph and Jon discuss the challenges of setting up a business and the importance of community support. They emphasize mental health awareness and the need for open communication. The episode also covers their plans for a media company and agricultural exports, specifically black turmeric. They conclude by talking about the importance of adaptability and resourcefulness in business.

Jon and Steph discuss their experiences with natural disasters, the resilience of businesses in Fiji, and gun ownership in America. They also touch on societal issues such as extreme feminism and high suicide rates. The conversation then shifts to the future of global leadership, with a focus on the rise of Islamic countries. They also discuss their personal lives, including their beauty routines and their experiences running a coffee shop. Towards the end, they reveal plans for their new company, Waka Media.

In this podcast episode, John and Stephanie discuss their different approaches to work and household chores. Stephanie shares her challenges with dyslexia and balancing work, motherhood, and household responsibilities. They also reminisce about their childhood experiences and discuss their experiences with friends and their children. They talk about their recent argument, the pressure to launch a new website and merchandise, and their plans to expand their content creation. They also discuss their different working styles, John's perfectionism, and the need for a separate workspace. The episode ends with a humorous discussion about John's need for empty counter space and a joke about the podcast being sponsored by coffee.

Jon & Steph discuss their experience with Leadership Fiji and their role in helping and their year over year growth of the event. The conversation also touches on their communication style during public speaking events and childhood games. They then shift to discussing their podcast and the engagement they receive from listeners. They talk about the possibilities for entrepreneurship in Fiji and the importance of helping others. The conversation also covers their recent activities, challenges faced when moving to a new place, and the need for balance between ambition and anxiety. They end by mentioning their partnership with Digicel and their plans for content creation.

In this podcast episode, Steph and Jon discuss their friend's unusual habit of taking bleach showers, their own business ventures and recent successes, their experiences with rugby and rugby culture, and their personal lives. They touch on cultural norms in Fiji, the challenges of living there, and their aspirations for the future.

In this podcast episode, Jon & Steph discuss various topics including the possibility of having more children, the perception of age and middle age, experiences with pregnancy, and a discussion about sex education and body shaming in church. They reflect on their decision to have two children and share their struggles with pregnancy. The conversation then shifts to the importance of teaching individuals to value and honor their bodies in church, rather than shaming them. They also recount awkward experiences at a party where they discovered the hosts were swingers. The episode ends with a lighthearted discussion about their cooking skills.

Have you ever thought about the most effective way to discipline your children? In this podcast, Jon and Steph share their experiences with physical discipline and the importance of following through with consequences. They discuss the cultural conversation around physical discipline and its potential disappearance, and how discipline, in any form, needs to be done out of love. They also touch on the importance of personal growth and development in the workplace, as well as the impact of social media on loneliness. Overall, Jon and Steph emphasize the importance of showing love and care for others, even if it may not always be easy or convenient.

In this podcast episode Jon and Steph reflect on the importance of living above reproach, finding meaning in life, coping with loss, and their faith. The episode includes a Q&A segment and a game called "We're Not Really Strangers." Thanks for joining!!

In this episode of the Waka Family Podcast, Jon and Steph discuss the importance of explaining and respecting Fijian culture. They also talk about their podcast set and recording location, as well as the importance of communication and good leadership in business. The conversation shifts to a discussion about discrimination and self-perception, and ends with a lighthearted discussion about their relationship and a promotion for their sponsor, Fresh Tea+Coffee.

Jon and Steph discuss their experiences with crying, the challenges of running a business in a small town, the importance of mutual respect and balance in a marriage, and the significance of their Christian faith in their business ventures. They also share stories and memories from their childhood and reflect on personal growth. The tone of the conversation is lighthearted, with occasional moments of vulnerability and reflection.

In this podcast episode, Stephanie and Jonathan chat about the limited options for quality women's undergarments in Fiji, the difficulties of finding trustworthy assistance, the education system, and the challenges of running a business in Fiji. They also share personal anecdotes about encountering cockroaches, their views on politics, and their experiences with spiritual healing. Stephanie and Jonathan reflect on how biblical teachings influence their daily lives. The episode concludes with a discussion about what initially drew them to each other and what has kept their attraction strong over time.

In this podcast episode, Jon and Steph, the hosts, discuss a range of topics, including the Muslim holiday of Eid, the importance of inclusivity and affordability in their coffee shop, personal experiences with health and healthcare, and the best gifts they have given and received. They also touch on topics related to their faith, including forgiveness, living a righteous life, and the end times.

In this podcast episode, Jon and Steph engage in a casual conversation covering a range of topics. They share their experiences and opinions on jokes, coffee, language, AI, and old school maps. The duo also touches on important topics such as education, communication, customer service, and building a strong foundation for a business. Additionally, they express their concerns about the development of AI. The episode concludes with a moment of levity, as one of the speakers suggests a Google search for "the donkey in the cross." Just an enjoyable and informative exchange between two friends.

Jon and Steph talk about the pizza restaraunt, how to resove confilict EVERY TIME, opportunities in the South Pacific, the differences between a job and a business, and more. This episode was brought to you by Fresh Tea+Coffee in Seaqaqa, Vanua Levu, Fiji.

Jon and Steph talk about all the recent feedback on social media, tell their origin story, and how you don't need capital to start a business. This episode was brought to you by Fresh Tea+Coffee in Seaqaqa, Vanua Levu, Fiji.

Jon and Steph talk about all the recent feedback on social media, tell their origin story, and how you don't need capital to start a business. This episode was brought to you by Fresh Tea+Coffee in Seaqaqa, Vanua Levu, Fiji.

Jon and Steph discuss weight-loss, dieting, Jon's new twitter account, the Waka Family's new Tiktok, Jonathan's road rage issues, race, religion, and more. Thanks for joining! This episode was brought to you by Fresh Tea+Coffee in Seaqaqa, Vanua Levu, Fiji.

Join Jonathan and Stephanie as they chat about creating conent, business, relationships, and more! This Episode was brought to you by Fresh Tea+Coffee in Seaqaqa, Vanua Levu, Fiji.

Jon and Steph talk about pooing in the ocean, losing your hearing, and more business progress made over the past week. Thanks for joining the conversation. This week's episode was brought to you by The Wet Mammal.

In the darkness because of a dead solar system Jon and Steph talk about the rules they would have for each other if they lived on a sailboat, introduce their new full time content manager, and the need to start open conversations about sexual abuse in our communities. This episode was brought to you by Fresh Tea+Coffee in Seaqaqa, Vanua Levu.

Meet their pet iguana, Fred. Steph and Jon also chat about the new processing, planting, and exporting venture they are looking into starting in Fiji, the new podcast/production studio/office they take possession of this week, and more. This episode was brought to you by Fresh Tea+Coffee in Seaqaqa, Vanua Levu.

"Stephanie, do you believe that you are delusionsally optimistic about your life?"...that's how Episode 8 starts. THIS MIGHT BE THE MOST RAW CONVERSATION SO FAR. That question kind of sets the tone for the rest of the episode. They litteraly read incoming business text messages--LIVE--as they came in. Thanks for joining Jonathan and Stephanie for another episode in their journey to creating the most innovative company in the South Pacific by 2030. This episode was brought to you by Fresh Tea&Coffee.

In this episode Jonathan and Stephanie talk about buying and selling turmeric in Fiji, the best spearfishing in the world, and our first kiss. Thanks for listening!!