Talk Story With Stephanie Lum
As if being an award-winning television anchor isn’t enough, Hawai‘i News Now’s Stephanie Lum is also a mama of three (including twins!), a podcast host and a triathlete. And she’s not slowing down. We chat with the multitalented boy mom about ways to sneak in family time, what drives her Muthaship podcast and diving into new passions, from acting to comedy.
HOMETOWN: Pauoa Valley
GO-TO KARAOKE SONG: “Kissing a Fool” by George Michael
MUST-HAVE LOCAL EATS: Tanioka’s spicy ‘ahi poke, inari sushi and ‘ahi patties
FAVE RUN SPOT: Everywhere along the coast, in the valleys and mountains!
CURRENTLY ENJOYING: The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
FOLLOW HER: @stephanielumhnn
What do you love about raising kids in Hawai‘i?
I love how naturally grounded and connected my three young sons have become to the land, ocean, culture and people. Some of our best family memories are playing at the beach, splashing in the waves and swimming and snorkeling, as well as hiking in the mountains and along the coast and soaking in the beautiful views of our island. I feel it’s through these experiences that they’ve learned to respect and appreciate the environment and mālama ‘āina.
There’s also a deep sense of ‘ohana and community in Hawai‘i and a shared understanding of looking out for each other. My friends have all become aunties and uncles to my kids. It’s comforting to know that the boys are growing up in a place where relationships and showing aloha are valued and there’s a spirit of connectedness everywhere.
You juggle so much—what tips do you have for working family time into a busy schedule?
Plan ahead and stay organized. Make your plans sooner than later, and put all your events on a calendar so you know which days you’ll have free time to spend with the kiddos. It doesn’t have to be elaborate, just intentional. A simple beach day, hike or library visit can go a long way.
Do your research. There are a lot of free family activities that are both fun and educational. From community events to cultural festivals, there’s often something happening that brings everyone together and keeps the kids engaged.
Most importantly, prioritize time with your kids. We all get caught up in the 9 to 5 and daily grind, but your presence is what they’ll remember. You can do short, fun activities like making breakfast, baking, reading together, playing Uno, or just talking story to strengthen your bond.
“It’s comforting to know that the boys are growing up in a place where relationships and showing aloha are valued and there’s a spirit of connectedness everywhere.”
We love Muthaship! Why did you create the podcast? What are its biggest takeaways for you about motherhood and sisterhood?
Lum with Muthaship co-hosts and besties Noli Kazama (left) and Brooke Kane. Photo: Courtesy of Stephanie Lum
My best friends and old college roommates came up with the idea to create Muthaship to share this chapter in our lives—motherhood. We launched the podcast on Mother’s Day many years ago, not knowing how far it would go. Now, with over 200 episodes, it’s become a safe space for conversations, laughter and the kind of support we all need.
The biggest takeaways? It truly takes a village to raise a family. You might feel you have to do it all (and maybe you are), but don’t forget to prioritize yourself and your mental health. You can’t pour from an empty cup, and your kids need you present and well.
And, above all, there’s no perfect way to raise children. We’re all learning as we go, and that’s OK. The love, effort and intention matter most.
To all the moms out there—you’re doing a great job! You’re showing up and making your children feel seen, safe and loved. You got this and you’re not alone!
Are you back training for marathons and triathlons? How do athletic competitions enhance your life?
Conquering the Nā Wāhine Sprint Triathalon. Photo: Courtesy of Stephanie Lum
Yes, I can’t stay still! I love being out and about moving my body and breaking a sweat. I genuinely enjoy physical challenges, which is why year after year, I sign up for the Honolulu Marathon, half marathons, fun runs, bike events and even triathlons. I’ve completed two half Ironmans in Kona, did the Waikīkī Roughwater Swim, hiked Haleakalā for several days and participated in a stand-up paddle board relay race from Moloka‘i to O‘ahu.
The more I move and push through these types of challenges, the more alive, focused and stronger I feel. That mindset carries over into every part of my life, especially my work. Whether I’m researching a complex issue or preparing for a newscast, I give it everything I’ve got because I believe in showing up fully and constantly striving to improve. Both on the course and in the newsroom, it’s about endurance, resilience and passion.
“Whether I’m researching a complex issue or preparing for a newscast, I give it everything I’ve got because I believe in showing up fully and constantly striving to improve.”
You’ve reported on local news for 20-plus years now. Which story has meant the most to you to cover?
Lum on set with co-host Keahi Tucker. Photo: Courtesy of Stephanie Lum
Wow, I can’t believe it’s been that many years! I feel so blessed and grateful to work in my hometown, a place I grew up in and love and to be able to work with such a talented news team that shares the same passion for serving our community, telling stories with integrity and making sure every voice is heard.
One of the most meaningful stories I’ve covered was a 10-part series called Journey to China: Hawai‘i’s Connection, which aired last year. Photographer Corbin Gregory and I were among the very first journalists to document life in southern China right after the country reopened to foreigners following the pandemic. It was an incredibly eye-opening experience to witness history unfolding and to explore the deep ties between Hawai‘i and China. We traced the origins of Hawai‘i’s first Chinese immigrants and with the help of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce Hawai‘i, I was able to track down my own Lum family ancestors. It was a pretty emotional moment standing in the village where my great-grandfather once lived. This journey reinforced why I do what I do—to inform, connect and honor the stories that shape who we are. Journey to China: Hawai‘i’s Connection just won a prestigious Edward R. Murrow award for best news series as well as an Emmy Award.
Other stories that I reported on this past year that really touched the community include one about a high school student who volunteered his time to give free haircuts to the homeless. It was such a simple-yet-powerful act of kindness and it reminded all of us how even the smallest gestures can restore dignity and hope. Another unforgettable moment was covering the retirement of a beloved longtime Big Island teacher. The massive show of aloha from students and faculty on his final day—tears, hugs and heartfelt tributes—was a beautiful testament to the lasting impact one person can have over generations. I’m always on the hunt for a great and impactful story. If you have any suggestions, I’d love to hear from you. Email me at stephanie.lum@hawaiinewsnow.com or message me on Instagram and Facebook!
Any current projects you’re excited to share?
I recently went outside my comfort zone talking openly about motherhood at a storytellers event, and it surprisingly turned into stand-up comedy! A lot of people were caught off guard because, let’s face it, they’re used to seeing the more serious side of me on the news. But sharing the messy, hilarious and relatable parts of parenting was so freeing, and it reminded me how powerful laughter can be in connecting us.
I also had the incredible opportunity to appear in Disney’s new Lilo and Stitch movie as, you guessed it, a news anchor! It was such a surreal full-circle moment, especially being part of a film that celebrates Hawai‘i culture and ‘ohana.
Brie Thalmann is the managing style editor of HONOLULU Magazine and the editor of the 2025 HONOLULU Family issue.
