In this episode of All Things Change, Olani Lilly sits down with Lei Riedel, Executive Director of Pakini Loan Fund, to talk story about the growing need for capital in Native Hawaiian communities and the work it takes to make lending more accessible, more supportive, and more grounded in culture.

Lei shares how Pakini Loan Fund is helping Native Hawaiian-owned small businesses navigate barriers like low credit history, limited access to resources, and the fear that often comes with approaching financial institutions.

The conversation explores what makes Native CDFIs different, including the importance of character-based lending, culturally relevant financial education, and relationship-centered support.

Lei also opens up about Pakini’s vision for growth, the real demand they are seeing in the community, and why building confidence is just as important as providing capital. This episode is an honest, insightful look at what community-rooted economic development can look like in practice.

Philanthropy can be more than a transaction—it can be a relationship that strengthens community. Join us as we talk story with Kuʻuleinani Maunupau and explore the origin and mission of Native Hawaiian Philanthropy, spotlight current initiatives, and share what healthy, respectful funding partnerships should actually look like. From decolonizing wealth to protecting Indigenous rights, this conversation invites funders and community leaders alike to rethink what “giving” should mean in Hawaiʻi.

In this episode, Jenny and Olani discuss the book 'Indigenous Economics: Sustaining Peoples and Their Lands' by Ronald Trosper. They explore the differences between Indigenous and Western economic models, emphasizing the importance of relationships, sustainability, and community well-being.

The conversation highlights the need for reciprocity and stewardship in economic practices, as well as the potential for innovative solutions rooted in Indigenous wisdom. They also discuss the impact of COVID-19 on local food systems and the importance of supporting local economies.

The discussion also emphasizes the need for economies that prioritize community, sustainability, and relationships over mere profit. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to integrate these principles into their own lives and businesses.

In this episode of All Things Change, Olani Lilly speaks with Uʻi lani Evans from ChangeMakers Hawaiʻi about the vital work being done in workforce development on Hawaiʻi Island. They discuss the role of the American Job Center, the services offered to job seekers, and the importance of community engagement and partnerships. Uʻilani shares insights on current job market trends, the challenges faced by job seekers, and the goals for future improvements in workforce development. The conversation emphasizes the need for systemic changes to create a thriving workforce and community.

Christian McAdams, ChangeMakers Hawaiʻi's new Executive Director, temporarily takes the reins of All Things Change to lead a heart-forward convo with founder Olani Lilly.From childhood dreams of community planning to leading transformative change, Olani shares how she built an organization centered on relational philanthropy, financial literacy, and empowering Native Hawaiian families through education and housing development.

Discover how Olani’s culturally rooted approach challenges traditional nonprofit structures, uplifts women, and redefines success by community impact. This episode is a powerful reminder that leadership, legacy, and aloha can co-exist to drive real social change.

🎧 Tune in for a masterclass in grassroots innovation, relational giving, and culturally conscious leadership.

Aloha! In this episode of All Things Change, Jenny and Olani of Change Makers Hawaiʻi sit down with Andrea Dias-Machado of Huliau Aloha for an inspiring talk about strategic planning—with heart, purpose, and place at the center. Learn how visioning for the next five years goes beyond spreadsheets and buzzwords—it’s about kuleana, pilina, and intentionality. Whether you're a nonprofit leader, community advocate, or curious change-maker, this episode offers grounded wisdom and practical tools to align your work with values and community needs. Join us as we reflect, plan, and dream forward together.

What happens when philanthropy actually listens to Indigenous communities? Hosts Olani and Jenny sit down for a deep, eye-opening conversation on the unique challenges and opportunities facing Native communities when it comes to funding, sovereignty, and civic engagement.

They break down the myths, highlight the power of reciprocity in giving, and explore how funders can build real relationships with Indigenous communities instead of just checking a box. From the fight for better data to the push for decolonized funding models, this episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to rethink philanthropy from the ground up.

Tune in for a conversation that challenges the status quo and amplifies Native-led solutions for a more equitable future.

In this episode of All Things Change, Jenny and Olani pull back the curtain on their team’s strategic planning for 2025. They’re diving deep into what it takes to create lasting impact—balancing core missions with new opportunities, strengthening community engagement, and redefining economic justice with a focus on equity over equality.

Expect candid insights from the team as they share their roles, challenges, and the art of fundraising through relationship-building. They also explore the complexities of marketing nonprofit work in a crowded space, the realities of remote collaboration, and why trust and leadership are the backbone of sustainable growth.

From blending tradition with innovation to embracing flat leadership structures, this episode is packed with thought-provoking takeaways on patience, adaptability, and the power of intentional work. Join the conversation as the team reflects on the future of economic development—and why, in the end, passion always outweighs profit.

🎧 Tune in now!