{"href":"https://api.simplecast.com/oembed?url=https%3A%2F%2Fhillscast.shark1023.com%2Fepisodes%2Faloha-from-hawaii-Y9I0BRDR","width":444,"version":"1.0","type":"rich","title":"Aloha From Hawai'i!","thumbnail_width":300,"thumbnail_url":"https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/d5af60e8-7211-4c30-bf57-0635bc41ce63/07777c48-7843-48f5-84f6-e32fb4333d40/heardonshark-20-instagram-20post-20-square.jpg","thumbnail_height":300,"provider_url":"https://simplecast.com","provider_name":"Simplecast","html":"","height":200,"description":"Melinda sits down with Hawaiian Steel Guitarist Geri Valdriz during his visit in Ripley, MS. Listen to Geri's journey from Family Court Judge to Steel Guitarist to Radio DJ in Maui, Hawai'i. During their interview, Geri Valdriz gives his perspective of having a hard time during his initial visits to Ripley, MS because he was amazed at how much people here talked. He explains that he came to realize that the constant communication was the basis for connection to establish \"ties\" to each other. He says he learned to slow down and listen to what was really being said. In Hawai'i, there are also many small communities where most of the people are kin to the others or have long-term friendships so he was able to understand that need for connection. An attorney by profession, Geri also served as a Family Court Judge for over 15 years. Upon retirement, Geri began to refocus his attention on more artistic adventures and learned to play the Steel Guitar. As a Hawai'ian Steel Guitarist, Geri has had many opportunities to play with musicians in Memphis, TN as well as all over Hawai'i. Most listeners will not know that the steel guitar and the concept of playing a slide guitar actually originated in Hawai'i in the 1800's before it crossed over to America and later, the world. Geri also spends much of his time as a DJ on KMNO 91.7 FM, a non-profit radio station where he hosts a radio show every Tuesday from 5-8 p.m. called Hawai'ian Steel. The show features guests, musicians, Hawai'ian steel guitar music, and call-ins from listeners. Geri gives a fantastic interview and one listeners will enjoy. Give it a listen and then stream Geri's Tuesday night show from the following website.\nTo enjoy the music of the islands, go to \"manaoradio.com\" every Tuesday from 5-8 p.m. for the KMNO 91.7 FM show, Hawai'ian Steel with host, Geri Vadriz."}