The ukulele is often seen as a simple instrument, a toy or a novelty. Yet, in the hands of a master, it becomes a powerful tool of cultural expression and connection. This humble instrument, with its gentle and voicelike tones, carries within it the soul of the Hawaiian islands, transcending its small form to spread the spirit of Aloha across the world.
Anthony Kauka Stanley was born into a very unique family: being of Hawaiian, Mexican, Greek, Chinese, Irish, Spanish, German, and Cherokee descent, his mother was blessed by the Kumu Hula to start her own Polynesian dance company at the unusually young age of 12. Anthony grew up performing with and would eventually become the music director of his family’s dance company, one of the largest in Southern California. During his time at Occidental College in Glendale, CA, where President Obama once walked the halls, Anthony found a respite from the demanding performance schedule of his family's Polynesian dance company by immersing himself in not just one, but four sports—football, basketball, wrestling and volleyball. Instead of hurting his performance, Anthony found the diversity of activities actually helped him excel at multiple sports; his dancing helped his agility and he remained the captain of multiple teams.
In this conversation, Anthony shares a lot about the value of being completely present. We talk about how Steve met Anthony through his sponsorship with Kala Brand Ukuleles, Anthony shares about the importance of authenticity, community and leadership and how people will always need places they can feel safe, appreciated and inspired. Steve wonders how Anthony can keep up with so many commitments, and relates about how greater success seems to come from leaning harder into creativity. We also talk about the shadow side of performing, and how it’s easy to turn to drugs or alcohol when something used to be a healthy outlet (music) turns into a stressful job. Most notably, Steve askes Anthony about the healing spirit of Aloha and Anthony shares how the ukulele is like a 'Trojan Horse,' able to subtly open doors to deeper connections across diverse communities.
Anthony’s Hawaiian name Kaukaulua’ole means “Fearless Warrior,” and he is truly a warrior of peace and presence to all he meets.
“To be truly fearless means to be loved.” – Anthony Kauka Stanley
Guest: Anthony Kauka StanleyKala Ukeleles – Artist HighlightYouTube ChannelInstagram @anthonykaukaCenter For World Music – Teaching Artist Spotlight
Featured Music: E Ku'u Morning Dew (Words by Larry Kimura, music by Eddie Kamae)
Intro Music: Disney Pixar's Up - "Married Life" composed by Michael Giacchino, arranged and performed by Anthony Kauka Stanley. (Video: YouTube)
Episode References:
Heali'i's Polynesian Revue – official websiteDebbie Evans – debbieevans.com (Steve's mom)
Carlsbad, California – tourism bureau
Israel Kamakawiwo'ole: The Voice Of Hawaii – NPRKumu Hula – Honolulu MagazineHarry Belefante – WikipediaGuy Lombardo – Wikipedia
Occidental College Official WebsiteNAMM Show (Official Website)United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of AmericaCenter for World Music
The Surrender Experiment (book)
About the host
Language of Creativity’s host Steven Leavitt enjoys discussing the ins and outs of all aspects of creating, creativity, and life with his fellow creators: artists, inventors, designers, producers and more. Along the way he hopes to gain perspective and multiply our understanding of what we share in common while creating, living, and learning. www.stevenleavitt.com
Production Credits:
This podcast was produced by I Create SoundEdited by Sam LevineSpecial thanks to Michael Bernard
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Tags:
#connection, #SanDiego, #California, #Hawaii, #aloha, #triathlete, #football, #baseball, #basketball, #AP, #crosstraining, #nonprofit, #musicteaching, #mindset, #toxictraits, #in
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