In this episode of Wake Up with Miya, I'm joined by Morgan Smith, founder of Pūʻiwa Hawaiian Farms, CEO of Monsoon Beverages, and the man behind Kalm with Kava.
Together, we explore the fascinating history of ʻawa—known throughout much of the world as kava—and its deep roots in Hawaiian culture. Morgan explains how ʻawa first arrived in Hawaiʻi, why it became one of the original canoe plants, and the important role it played in the lives of the aliʻi and kahuna. We also discuss traditional preparation methods, how those customs changed after Western contact, why much of ʻawa's history has been forgotten, and the differences between traditional Hawaiian ʻawa and the way most people experience kava today.
Morgan also shares his personal journey from the software industry to founding Pūʻiwa Hawaiian Farms and Kalm with Kava, why he chose to dedicate himself to growing ʻawa in Hawaiʻi, what he's learned from working directly with local farmers, and why preserving this remarkable plant is about much more than simply producing another beverage.
The conversation continues on the Waiola Plus Side, where Morgan opens up about the challenges of being a mainlander involved with Hawaiian ʻawa, why he believes his kuleana is to help preserve the plant rather than speak for Hawaiian culture, how close Hawaiʻi came to losing ʻawa altogether, the people he credits with helping keep it alive, and the ethical debate over growing kava outside the Pacific Islands.
We also continue our conversation about his Big Island farm, fresh ʻawa harvesting, and where he believes the future of Hawaiian ʻawa is headed.
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Where to Find Morgan Smith & Learn More
Morgan encourages everyone to learn more about ʻawa through the educational resources he shares online.
You can find him at:
Kalm with Kava Website: https://kalmwithkava.com
Instagram: @Kalmwithkava @puuiwafarmshawaii
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https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wake-up-with-miya--6339129/support.
