Podcasts about Honolulu

Grab the FREE guide to the best local food spots on Maui!Did you know most visitors miss Maui's best food because they stick to resort restaurants?Locals know the real gems are tucked in Wailuku, Paia, Kihei, and Lahaina, and they're worth finding.If you've ever wondered where locals actually eat on Maui, this episode is for you. You'll get real, firsthand tips from longtime Maui resident Liza Pierce on how to eat well, support local businesses, and skip the tourist traps.In this episode of Hawaii's Best, we share the ultimate Maui food guide, featuring everything from iconic spots like Mama's Fish House to hidden food truck finds and plate-lunch favorites.

Resilience isn't about never falling. It's about learning, adapting, and choosing hope, every time. In this episode, host Peter Fenger speaks with Andy Pierce, Resilience Expert and founder of iBounceUp, a Honolulu-based nonprofit transforming lives in at-risk communities. Andy brings a Master's degree in Performance Psychology and extensive experience working with elite Special Operations Soldiers, Army Rangers, adults in addiction recovery, and resource caregivers. But his work with iBounceUp is deeply personal, born from his brother-in-law Matt's struggle with addiction and untimely death, the organization now serves as both a legacy and a lifeline. In this conversation, Andy reveals the five pillars of mental resilience: self-awareness, self-control, optimism, flexibility, and relationships. He shares powerful stories from Hawaii's rehab centers and sober living facilities, explains why connection matters more than curriculum, and opens up about his own near-fatal surfing accident that tested everything he teaches. Discover why being selective about who we share good news with matters, how our beliefs drive our thoughts, and why flexibility might be the most underrated resilience skill of all. This is a conversation about building strength in broken places, and why showing up consistently changes lives.   For more information about iBounceUp, please visit: https://www.ibounceup.org Consider a donation to iBounceUp and help transform lives: https://www.ibounceup.org/donate-now Connect with iBounceUp on Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ibounce-up/ Connect with iBounceUp on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/ibounceup For more information about Andy Pierce and resilience training, please visit: https://www.bounceresilience.com

This week, Nik sits down with his friend Man Phung for a two-part conversation that's as real as it gets. Man's path through aviation is full of twists, setbacks, and victories—and at the heart of it all is a powerful message: don't quit. Man fell in love with aviation as a kid in Hawaii, saving money as a teenager to earn most of his ratings before he even turned 18. But when the money ran out, he stepped away from flying for nearly two decades, building a successful career in sales and business. Then, during the hiring boom, Man reignited his aviation dream—buying his own airplane, building hours, and grinding through training while balancing family and work life. Along the way, there were engine failures, an off-airport landing, multiple checkride failures, and plenty of moments where it would have been easier to give up. Instead, Man doubled down, gave himself grace, and kept pushing forward. In this conversation, you'll hear: How a discovery flight in Honolulu lit the spark for Man's aviation dream The realities of training as a teenager with limited resources Why he stepped away from flying for 20 years—and what brought him back What it takes to buy your own airplane to build time (including smart financial strategies) The story of surviving an engine failure and off-airport landing Lessons learned from failed checkrides and the power of slowing down Why persistence, patience, and tenacity are the real keys to a long aviation career Man's story is a reminder that aviation isn't just about flying airplanes—it's about resilience. Whether you're a young pilot just starting out or a career-changer chasing your second chance, this episode will inspire you to stick with it, no matter what comes your way. CONNECT WITH US Are you ready to take your preparation to the next level? Don't wait until it's too late. Use the promo code “R4P2025” and save 10% on all our services. Check us out at www.spitfireelite.com! If you want to recommend someone to guest on the show, email Nik at podcast@spitfireelite.com, and if you need a professional pilot resume, go to www.spitfireelite.com/podcast/ for FREE templates! SPONSOR Are you a pilot just coming out of the military and looking for the perfect second home for your family? Look no further! Reach out to Marty and his team by visiting www.tridenthomeloans.com to get the best VA loans available anywhere in the US. Be ready for takeoff anytime with 3D-stretch, stain-repellent, and wrinkle-free aviation uniforms by Flight Uniforms. Just go to www.flightuniform.com and type the code SPITFIREPOD20 to get a special 20% discount on your first order. #Aviation #AviationCareers #aviationcrew #AviationJobs #AviationLeadership #AviationEducation #AviationOpportunities #AviationPodcast #AirlinePilot #AirlineJobs #AirlineInterviewPrep #flying #flyingtips #PilotDevelopment #PilotFinance #pilotcareer #pilottips #pilotcareertips #PilotExperience #pilotcaptain #PilotTraining #PilotSuccess #pilotpodcast #PilotPreparation #Pilotrecruitment #flightschool #aviationschool #pilotcareer #pilotlife #pilot

A fight between two teen girls escalates into an attempted murder case. Why one of the girls' sister is now facing some serious charges. An activist with Hawaii ties is detained by the Israeli government. What she was doing before she was taken by military forces. An electric scooter crash, that critically injured a man in Kalihi.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An unruly passenger forces a Hawaiian Airline flight to turn around and a rare look inside the states bunker that houses confiscated illegal fireworks. Plus, the Waikiki bank robber suspect appeared in court, he said "he felt bad."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thousands of Kaiser Permanente Hawaii employees could soon walk off the job after announcing plans for a 5-day strike. The man accused of releasing pepper spray while trying to rob a Waikiki bank appears in court. And a challenge to Hawaii's gun restrictions makes its way to the U.S. Supreme Court.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, the Conversation is sharing interviews with the host and panelists of the popular NPR news quiz show 'Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!' ahead of their Honolulu live event.

At a press conference, interim Honolulu police chief Rade Vanic elaborated on a deadly officer-involved shooting that took place outside Queen's Medical Center Thursday morning. Police responded to reports of a man with a firearm expressing suicidal thoughts. Vanic said when officers approached, the suspect pulled out a revolver and pointed at them.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Preparing to picket: Kaiser Permanente workers are set to take action after their contracts expired this week. What the hospital says they're offering to keep them on the job. More Hawaii children are getting past school vaccine requirements.. using religious exemptions. How the state compares to the rest of the country. We told him not to play with fire but Casey doesn't listen. He's out live this morning at Sea Life Park where the Fire Knife Dance will be celebrated this weekend. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The government shutdown is in day three with no end in sight as lawmakers once again failed to reach an agreement. A strike date has been set for more than 2,000 local Kaiser Permanente employees. And a new UHERO report is sounding the alarm for Hawaii's nonprofit sector, which stands to lose more than $100 million in federal funding. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Grab Your Free PDF GuideWith headlines everywhere creating confusion, many travelers are unsure what's actually open, what's closed, and how this impacts their carefully planned Hawaii vacation.If you're traveling to Hawaii during the shutdown or have upcoming reservations, this episode cuts through the confusion with facts, not opinions. Learn exactly what's operating and what backup plans will save your itinerary.In this episode of our travel podcast, we break down the current federal shutdown's real impact on Hawaii travel, from airport delays to national park access.

A man is dead after an officer-involved shooting outside Queen's Medical Center. A house fire in Nanakuli prompts road closures and sends one woman to the hospital. The federal government shutdown enters its second day, as federal workers face potential layoffs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's day two of the federal government shutdown. We look at how it's impacting local federal employees and services. A new program has launched to help Hawaii residents become more familiar with the digital world. We'll tell you how you can get involved. The LOTTE Championship is back for its 13th year. Casey Lund is live this morning with an inside look at the LPGA tournament.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The senate failed in two votes today to reopen the government after it shutdown last night, stopping paychecks for hundreds of thousands of federal workers. Governor Josh Green hopes federal workers affected by the government shutdown will look for opportunities with the state through the Operation Hire Hawaii Initiative. And Jane Goodall, the conservationist renowned for her groundbreaking chimpanzee field research, has died at age 91. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With the first government shutdown in more than six years underway, lawmakers continue to disagree over funding for healthcare. Meanwhile, a historic site on Oahu remains open under a temporary federal agreement. Hawaii County officials release new details on the driver in a bus crash that sent twenty-two people to the hospital.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For many travelers, Hawaii is about beaches and hotels, but behind the beauty lies a way of life rooted in community, culture, and aloha ʻaina (love for the land).

On this episode of Spotlight Now, Hawaii County Mayor Kimo Alameda sits down to talk about the pressing challenges facing the Big Island and potential pay raises for all county workers. He also provides an update on a bus crash that sent 22 people to the hospital. Then Stuart Coleman, executive director of Wastewater Alternatives & Innovations, sheds light on the state’s cesspool conversion mandate.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Washington barrels toward a government shutdown with no deal in sight, a look at how the closure will affect federal jobs and services in the islands. A Hawaii County bus overturns in Laupahoehoe, injuring more than 20 on board. We hear from residents who helped pull people to safety. And more than two years after the wildfire tragedy, Maui County unveils its new design plans for Lahaina's historic business district. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A bank robbery shuts down a road in busy Waikiki with Emergency Medical Services treating more than a dozen people. As the state and military prepare to negotiate land leases, the governor and Army secretary set a framework for discussions. Major upgrades are now complete at Ala Wai Golf Course.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chances of a government shutdown tonight are high. Now the blame game is fully underway as national parks prepare to close and federal employees brace for furloughs that could turn into layoffs. And Honolulu police are searching for a Waikiki bank robber who allegedly released pepper spray, causing 18 people to get sick yesterday. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Before there were raves, there were house parties. I have some great memories DJ'ing house and hall parties back in the day. This set features 20 tech house, techno, and trance tracks from such amazing artists as CID, Martin Garrix, Armin van Buuren, Jody 6, Eli Brown, and more. Check out the complete ID list on Instagram @mikelettner. Mahalo for listening and I hope you enjoy it.

Since co-founding Thoma with his wife Melissa in 1998, Martin has conceived, developed and implemented communications and marketing programs ranging from new product initiatives for global technology companies to public information and safety campaigns for state agencies. His roots in journalism and writing have equipped him to successfully conceive and lead multiple national award-winning communications for regional and national clients. Martin has represented local, state, regional and national organizations in the tourism, healthcare, energy, financial services, transportation, retail, hospitality, government, insurance and food service industries — including regional, national and international brands such as Entergy Corporation, Entergy Nuclear, MISO: Midwest Independent System Operator, SPP: Southwest Power Pool, MONI Smart Security, Aviagen, PotlatchDeltic, Comcast, Pizza Hut, Clarke-American, Jack Henry and Associates. Martin and his partner Melissa created the proprietary brand development process known as The Brand Navigator™ to help executive teams unleash the power of their brands to attract customers, engage and align employees, and drive revenues. Martin wrote the book, Branding Like the Big Boys: How to Grab Market Share, Improve Margins and Increase Loyalty In Your Small Business, available for purchase on Amazon. He is frequently sought out for comment on brands and branding by publications like Vice Sports, The Boston Globe, Arkansas Business and Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. His ideas and efforts have been showcased in publications as diverse as eHealthcare Strategies & Trends, The Journal of Accountancy and Transportation Industry News. Martin has criss-crossed the country speaking on the power of brand leadership, with appearances from Honolulu to Seattle to San Antonio. Martin is a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, with a bachelor's degree in journalism and English.

Shock and panic. That's what some Downtown apartment building tenants are expressing after they were told to leave within days. A change is coming for electric vehicle drivers. We'll tell you what the federal government is now implementing and how it's predicted to affect traffic. And there's a glow from Kilauea this morning. The U.S. Geological Survey says precursory activity began around 10:00 last night.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new development as the state and military prepare to negotiate the renewal of land leases. Leaders in Congress are set to meet with President Trump at the White House as the deadline to avoid a government shutdown quickly approaches. Honolulu police are searching for three men in connection to a crime spree on Oahu.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Paia brush fire on Maui, which burned for four days, is now fully contained. Investigators say the blaze was likely set intentionally, and police are searching for a suspect. Search efforts off Kauai are winding down after days of intense Coast Guard operations. Two men remain missing in the area, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Economists are warning of a possible slowdown ahead. We look at what a mild recession could mean for families across the islands. A Waikiki man is facing new charges after an encounter with police turned violent. We'll have the latest on the case and what led to his arrest. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Happy Atlanta Art Week! Its exciting time around the city. With so much going on its a perfect time for a new episode of the Noize! Let them other folks deal with that crazy Atlanta traffic. You can sit back in your studio and listen to two printmakers and educators talk about art. We got Harris Wiltsher on the show today. Harris has been teaching art at Florida A&M University for 29 years. He talks about the changes in education over his career, the different ways students and technology has evolved in the classroom, the highs and lows of higher education, and of course, we talk about his beautiful prints. All that and more on this episode of the Noize! Listen, subscribe, and share!Episode 207 topics include:teaching at FAMU for 29 yearschanges in students over decadeseconomics of printmakingwhat are the new students doing conceptually In What We See print show traveling to HBCU'sthe benefits of being at an HBCUthe genesis of the Crown seriesmaking an interesting printHARRIS WILTSHER BioBorn in New York, New YorkRaised in The Bronx“To address specific elements of black history or its community certainly is attainable but the position of my work is to provide a cultural and / or educational meaning to dialogue with my audience and document my personal experiences within the framework of African Diaspora.” Wiltsher's artistic endeavors span from being a Bronx Recognizes Its Own (BRIO) recipient, visiting artist, lecturer, independent curator, program administrator for the Florida Art in State Buildings Program, professor and Gallery Director at Florida A & M University. In addition, his work is included in collections by the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, Cranbrook Academy of Art Museum, Sande Webster Gallery Collection, Carver Federal Bank, Art Academy of Honolulu and The Black Archives Research Center & Collection Reserve. See more: Harris Wiltsher's website + Harris Wiltsher's IG @harriswiltsher.art Follow us:StudioNoizePodcast.comIG: @studionoizepodcastJamaal Barber: @JBarberStudioSupport the podcast www.patreon.com/studionoizepodcast

We begin with a live look at Hanalei Bay where blue skies are trying to pop through all those gray clouds. A flood watch is still up for Kauai until 6 tonight. An update on that day-long brushfire in Paia; MFD officials say they have made progress overnight, and it's now 90% contained. And reaction from Honolulu's mayor on a highly anticipated permitting system that's been delaying key building projects.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

City leaders are defending a new building permit system that has led to several delays. The Honolulu mayor speaks out on the issue. State officials vote to pass new rules regulating shipments to Molokai in an effort to protect the island from invasive pests. Thousands are expected to line Kalakaua Avenue for the 77th annual Floral Parade Saturday morning. We're live near the route with a sneak peek, and what drivers need to know. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

HNN declares a First Alert Weather Day for Kauai. Drew Davis is tracking the flood watch on the Garden Isle. Added intrigue for the upcoming election season as longtime state Rep. Della Au Belatti announces a bid for U.S. Congress. And former FBI director and Trump adversary James Comey has been indicted by a federal grand jury days after the president called for his prosecution. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Free Guide to Words to Know Before You VisitThe first thing you'll meet in Hawaii isn't the beach. It's the language.Learning a few real words helps you read signs, follow directions, and show respect from day one.

Another deadly crash on Oahu leaves many wondering what more can be done to make the roads safer. Crews on Maui are trying to get the upper hand on a brushfire in Paia that has caused power outages and a school closure. And a gunman opens fire at an ICE facility in Dallas, Texas.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for the Garden Isle and Niihau until Friday evening. On Maui, Paia Elementary School is closed for a 2nd day because of a nearby brushfire. And veteran state lawmaker Della Au Bellati announced her plans to run for Congress, the latest challenger for Rep. Ed Case's District 1 seat. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A brush fire on Maui is now 70 percent contained, as students at Paia Elementary School are out of class for a second consecutive day due to the fire. A new Honolulu permitting system, designed to speed up the process, is reportedly having the opposite effect. An endangered monk seal returns to his island home after years away on an important mission.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Heute wird's haushaltsnah – und dabei ziemlich international. Patricia erzählt, wie ihre Wäschespinne in Honolulu für neugierige Blicke und Nachbarschafts-Gespräche sorgt. Und Janina berichtet aus Portland, warum das Wäsche zusammenlegen bei ihr schon mal zum kleinen Beziehungskrimi werden kann. Dazu wie immer noch ein paar unerwartete Abzweigungen – zwischen Familienchaos, Alltagskultur und jeder Menge Lacher.

Father Robert J. Spitzer, S.J., is a Jesuit priest, philosopher, educator, author, and the President of the Magis Center of Reason and Faith. Born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, he went on to study at Gonzaga University, the Gregorian University in Rome, and the Catholic University of America, where he earned a PhD in philosophy. He later served as President of Gonzaga University, where he became known for blending academic excellence with faith formation. Today, Father Spitzer leads the Magis Center, which produces resources on the intersection of faith, science, and reason, and he continues to write and speak globally on subjects ranging from metaphysics to moral theology to spiritual warfare. In this episode, Brad sits down with Father Spitzer at Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove, California, for a candid conversation about his book Christ vs. Satan in Our Daily Lives and the reality of spiritual battle. Father Spitzer shares formative stories from his upbringing in Hawaii, his Jesuit formation, and the pivotal moments when challenges like vision loss became turning points for deeper faith. He unpacks the eight deadly sins, the tactics of the evil one, and the role of prayer, confession, and the Eucharist in resisting temptation. Along the way, he offers practical wisdom on discernment, the power of gratitude, and why the rosary remains one of the strongest weapons in spiritual life. “To live without thankfulness is the most self-centered way to live.” – Father Spitzer “Lord, you are the just judge. You take care of it.” – Father Spitzer “Nip temptation in the bud early. Don't wait until it grows into something that can destroy you.” – Father Spitzer This Week on The Wow Factor Growing up in Honolulu and how his parents shaped his faith and values Discovering proofs of God's existence in philosophy and science during college How his mother's prayers and wisdom steadied him in seasons of doubt The diagnosis of retinitis pigmentosa and how it reshaped his calling Discernment of spirits: learning to reject the “rhetoric of damaged goods” Why the devil's greatest lie is convincing people he doesn't exist The eight deadly sins, their tentacles in modern life, and how to resist them Practical tools for spiritual resilience: Eucharist, confession, daily prayer, and the rosary Why 90% of the fruit of prayer comes outside of prayer Encouragement for parents: the power of modeling prayer and faith for their children Father Spitzer's Word of Wisdom Bring every temptation and struggle to God. Don't fight it in your own strength. Dependence on Him, daily prayer, and trust in His unconditional love are the surest path to freedom and joy. Connect With Father Spitzer: Magis Center Instagram Magis Center YouTube Magis Center LinkedIn Magis Center Facebook Fr. Spitzer Facebook Connect with The Wow Factor:    WOW Factor Website    Brad Formsma on LinkedIn     Brad Formsma on Instagram     Brad Formsma on Facebook     X (formerly Twitter)    

A large brush fire continues to burn on Maui, as evacuations are lifted in Paia. Hawaii News Now investigates allegations of a Red Hill cover-up as a former fuel director claims she played a key role in the investigation. Hulu and Disney+ subscription rates are set to increase.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We're tracking breaking news on Maui. A fast-moving brush fire in Pa'ia forces evacuations, developing details on the fire fight. Another death on O'ahu's roads after a woman is hit crossing the street in Kalihi as police search for the driver. Honolulu City Council explores a price hike to ride The Bus. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Paia brush fire that forced nearby homes to evacuate is now 50% contained with no forward progress overnight. Loved ones of a woman killed in a hit-and-run crash in Kalihi Monday night are praying for justice. Homeland Security says a gunman shot three detainees at an ICE facility in Dallas, Texas before taking his own life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Spotlight Now welcomes two guests to explore Hawaii's relationship with the military when it comes to water and land leases. The Board of Water Supply is suing the U.S. Navy for $1.2 billion to help clean up the 2021 Red Hill fuel spill. BWS manager and chief engineer Ernie Lau says he has been asking the Navy to share their monitoring data, but they have not cooperated. Meanwhile, negotiations continue with the state and military over land leases. Those leases are set to expire in 2029, but the Trump administration has said they want a new deal much sooner. Gov. Josh Green has said it’s in the state’s best interest to engage. Native Hawaiian scholar Jon Kamakawiwoʻole Osorio, dean of the Hawaiʻinuiākea School of Hawaiian Knowledge at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, calls his response disappointing. In our new Community Spotlight segment, Kayla Keehu-Alexander, vice president of community impact at Aloha United Way, reflects on federal impacts to local nonprofits.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

29 Locally Owned Spots to Eat on Kauai GuideIn this episode, you'll discover 10 of the best locally owned restaurants on Kauai. Spots where the food is incredible and locals actually eat. From grab-and-go plate lunches to sit-down meals made with island ingredients, this list will help you skip the tourist traps and support the real food scene on Kauai. You'll get insider tips, must-try dishes, and local advice for every stop. Become a member of Hawaii's Best: hawaiisbesttravel.com/members⎯

A former Oahu man accused of trying to assassinate President Donald Trump at his Florida golf course was found guilty, then tried to stab himself with a pen in the courtroom. A community mourns for Hopena Pokipala, a 30-year-old killed in a crash Saturday night in Windward Oahu. And HNN Investigates the Red Hill fuel spill that has two men charged with conspiracy. Exclusive photos from deep inside the tunnel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Negotiations are underway as Kaiser Permanente workers fight for increased staffing levels and higher pay. The Honolulu City Council is preparing to vote on Bill 54, which aims to raise the cost of riding transit in Hawaii. An updated analysis provides new numbers on the actual cost of achieving the 'American dream.'See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Unionized workers are one step closer to striking against Kaiser Permanente. The latest details from both sides of the negotiating table. A Mililani man is convicted for killing his 74-year-old mother and her dog, how long he faces behind bars. The White House links the risk of autism to a widely used over the counter medication.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Lane Kawaoka, a real estate investor from Honolulu, Hawaii shares his journey from being an engineer to becoming a successful real estate entrepreneur. He discusses how he transitioned from owning single-family homes to investing in larger multifamily properties and syndications. Lane emphasizes the importance of financial discipline, learning from experienced investors, and the concept of the "wealth elevator" to achieve financial independence. He also touches on the challenges and strategies involved in real estate investing, including the impact of changing interest rates and the need to adapt investment strategies over time.

Let's chill a little and enjoy the moment. This set features 27 Liquid DnB and Jungle tracks from such amazing artists as Hybrid Minds, T & Sugah, Chanpan, Break, Solah, S.P.Y, goddard, and more. See the complete ID list on Instagram @mikelettner. Hope you enjoy it. Mahalo for listening!

University of Hawaiʻi leadership is meeting with federal Department of Education officials to discuss funding cuts; More than 2,000 cyclists are expected to take part in the Honolulu Century Ride

President Trump made a big announcement today, claiming there's a link between autism and acetaminophen, the active drug in the pain reliever Tylenol. Over 2,000 Hawaii Kaiser Permanente workers voted to authorize a strike as their contracts are set to expire Tuesday. And 5-time world champion and Olympic gold medalist Carissa Moore joined Governor Green to announce the first ever HHSAA surfing state championships.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever wondered what locals really want visitors to know before coming to Hawaii?Most travelers focus only on beaches and bucket-list spots, but what really makes your trip unforgettable is connecting with the culture, supporting local businesses, and embracing the aloha spirit.

Father Robert J. Spitzer, S.J., is a Jesuit priest, philosopher, educator, author, and the President of the Magis Center of Reason and Faith. Born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, he went on to study at Gonzaga University, the Gregorian University in Rome, and the Catholic University of America, where he earned a PhD in philosophy. He later served as President of Gonzaga University, where he became known for blending academic excellence with faith formation. Today, Father Spitzer leads the Magis Center, which produces resources on the intersection of faith, science, and reason, and he continues to write and speak globally on subjects ranging from metaphysics to moral theology to spiritual warfare. In this episode, Brad sits down with Father Spitzer at Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove, California, for a candid conversation about his book Christ vs. Satan in Our Daily Lives and the reality of spiritual battle. Father Spitzer shares formative stories from his upbringing in Hawaii, his Jesuit formation, and the pivotal moments when challenges like vision loss became turning points for deeper faith. He unpacks the eight deadly sins, the tactics of the evil one, and the role of prayer, confession, and the Eucharist in resisting temptation. Along the way, he offers practical wisdom on discernment, the power of gratitude, and why the rosary remains one of the strongest weapons in spiritual life. “To live without thankfulness is the most self-centered way to live.” – Father Spitzer “Lord, you are the just judge. You take care of it.” – Father Spitzer “Nip temptation in the bud early. Don't wait until it grows into something that can destroy you.” – Father Spitzer This Week on The Wow Factor Growing up in Honolulu and how his parents shaped his faith and values Discovering proofs of God's existence in philosophy and science during college How his mother's prayers and wisdom steadied him in seasons of doubt The diagnosis of retinitis pigmentosa and how it reshaped his calling Discernment of spirits: learning to reject the “rhetoric of damaged goods” Why the devil's greatest lie is convincing people he doesn't exist The eight deadly sins, their tentacles in modern life, and how to resist them Practical tools for spiritual resilience: Eucharist, confession, daily prayer, and the rosary Why 90% of the fruit of prayer comes outside of prayer Encouragement for parents: the power of modeling prayer and faith for their children Father Spitzer's Word of Wisdom Bring every temptation and struggle to God. Don't fight it in your own strength. Dependence on Him, daily prayer, and trust in His unconditional love are the surest path to freedom and joy. Connect With Father Spitzer: Magis Center Instagram Magis Center YouTube Magis Center LinkedIn Magis Center Facebook Fr. Spitzer Facebook Connect with The Wow Factor:    WOW Factor Website    Brad Formsma on LinkedIn     Brad Formsma on Instagram     Brad Formsma on Facebook     X (formerly Twitter)