It's impossible to imagine Maui without Manaʻo Radio, our island's only all-volunteer, listener-supported community radio station. And it's equally impossible to imagine Manaʻo Radio without Michael Elam.
Since 2006, Michael has been a familiar voice on the airwaves as a DJ. For the past seven years, he's also served as Board President, guiding the station through a remarkable period of transformation and growth. Tireless, visionary, and endlessly generous, Michael has left an imprint on Manaʻo Radio, and on our island community, that will last for generations.
Building a Stronger Station
Under Michael's leadership, Manaʻo Radio grew into a vibrant, financially secure, and deeply connected community treasure.
He built the underwriter program from scratch, giving the station the financial stability it needed to thrive.
He expanded Manaʻo Radio's digital reach with a stronger online presence, active social media, and a mobile app that carries the music and voices of Maui far beyond our shores.
He championed live music events and launched Music2Nite.com, a live music calendar supporting Maui's local musicians.
He forged alliances with other nonprofits. From Pacific Biodiesel to ProArts Playhouse, helping raise funds and awareness for causes like the Maui Humane Society, St. John's Kula Fest, Hawai'i Food Hub Hui, and UNICEF.
Michael often says his role is to "clear obstacles so our volunteers can get things done." With more than 75 volunteers and 45 DJs in the Manaʻo ʻohana, his approach has helped foster a culture of both excellence and freedom.
The Impact of a Visionary Leader
Those who have worked alongside Michael know just how much his leadership has meant.
"Michael Elam is a true leader who has led Mana'o Radio into a totally new paradigm. His work on many levels-fundraising, outreach, the new app, high quality of on-air broadcasts, and so much more has made an incalculable, positive impact!" - Barry Sultanoff (Dr. B), Mana'o Radio DJ
"Michael Elam is truly a visionary... The underwriter program and the mobile app he developed have both been immensely successful, ensuring financial stability and expanding Manaʻo's reach." - Ray Mayron, Treasurer, Manaʻo Radio
"Michael brought to the airwaves not just impeccable taste and a deep love of music, but also a generous spirit and sense of humanity that inspired everyone around him." - David Rose, Web Designer, MC & App Creator, Manaʻo Radio
"Without Michael, Manaʻo Radio simply would not be the community treasure it is. During his time at the station, he has worked prodigiously to build a vibrant, diverse, financially stable multi-media organization dedicated to bringing people together in a shared love of music." - Annie Byrne, Board of Directors & Volunteer Coordinator, Manaʻo Radio
Leaving a Lasting Legacy
Michael's work at Manaʻo Radio has been about more than music, it's been about connection, community, and culture. By supporting local musicians, uplifting nonprofits, and creating a space where volunteers can shine, he has shown us what's possible when one person commits fully to serving others.
As he steps back from the front lines at the end of this year, Michael leaves behind not only a thriving station but also an enduring legacy of aloha, leadership, and inspiration.
Tune In, Get Involved
Manaʻo Radio is more than a station, it's a community of volunteers and listeners bound together by the power of music. To support the station or learn how you can volunteer, visit manaoradio.com.
Mahalo, Michael, for everything you've given to our island!
