EarthLink: Finding Ways To Give Amidst Big Loss

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EarthLink experienced a great loss at the passing of its former CEO, Garry Betty, in January 2007.  However, this tragic moment opened a new chapter for the Internet giant and its philanthropic endeavor.  Taking a leave of absence in November 2006, Garry used his time not only to meet a demanding physical amelioration and the needs of his family, but also to focus on how he could utilize this life challenge to help others by advancing cancer research and finding cure for the disease. More »

Are You a System Quarterback?

Many have referred to Colt Brennan as a "system quarterback" to explain the near unbelievable results he and the University of Hawaii football team produced over the past couple of years. In the world of football being a system quarterback is seen as a negative because an effective system can make it a little more difficult to evaluate the player as an individual athlete but there is no way to deny that a well designed system run by people who are disciplined and well suited for their positions can produce amazing results. More »

Young Entrepreneur of the Month - Darren Kimura of Energy Industries

Darren Kimura started Energy Industries at the age of 20, while on summer break from The University of Hawaii at Manoa. He began by helping his parents, Big Island contractors working in the family business. It was here that he noticed new buildings were being built but electrical generation was not matching the growth. More »

Do You Have a Clear Vision for Your Business?

Clear visions have helped shape and propel impressive companies. For example, Fred Smith, founder of Federal Express, had a vision that packages could be delivered around the United States by the next morning. Disney wanted to make families smile. Dominoes wanted you to have hot, delicious pizza delivered to your door in 30 minutes or less or it was free. Coke wanted to have its refreshing beverages within the reach of every person in the world. More »

Duane Kurisu: Self-Discovery Impacts the Greater Community

Duane Kurisu embodies all that is great of a business man - and he is seemingly, to most if not all, an epitome of success. Duane started his entrepreneurial career in the real estate business at the age of 29. With former colleague Mike Fergus, they put together a partnership aptly named Kurisu & Fergus. More »

Motivation Key to Positive Working Environment

The famous maxim from Chinese philosopher Confucius, "Choose a job that you love and you never have to work a day in your life", rings true to Marc Tilker, president and chief executive officer of the Marathon Group of Companies. Marc's enthusiasm and passion in his job reverberates across the walls of his office to sectors of the community in need of assistance. This philosophy traces its roots to his vernal days during the development of his entrepreneurial skills. More »

Lane Muraoka Uses Big City Diner to Help the Community

In 1998, Lane Muraoka took the leap from employee to employer. He opened the first Big City Diner in Kaimuki and hasn't looked back. Big City Diner currently has 4 locations, 250 employees and is considering a much larger expansion. While the entrepreneurial lessons are important, what captivated us was his mission to help the community through his business. More »

Rick Blangiardi: Focusing On the Have, Not On the Have-Not

Rick Blangiardi was at the pinnacle of his successful football-coaching career when significant revamps with his professional life became a necessity. To support the needs of his growing family, Rick shifted from coaching to sales at a TV station - leaving what seems to be his dream and passion to meet the practical demands of reality. More »

Three Lessons from 2008

I took some time at the beginning of January to assess, first, where I was and, second, what I wanted from the upcoming year. I learned a lot of lessons from this process and I want to share some with you. More »

Give Them Reason to Cheer!

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When you first opened your business you probably found yourself full of enthusiasm, expectation, and excitement. You were the doer, the achiever Coach Lombardi would stand and cheer. Often these feelings are sufficient to carry you through the first couple of years needed to establish your business and begin to gain momentum. More »