For many Hawaiʻi residents, Rick Hamada’s voice has been a familiar companion through morning commutes and the everyday rhythms of island life. Behind that voice is a son inspired by his mother, an adventurer who found his home in Hawaiʻi and a father whose greatest pride is his children.
As Rick celebrates his 65th birthday and 40 years in broadcasting, Councilmember Augie Tulba and the Honolulu City Council are honoring a career built around stories, conversations and community.
Rick’s story began in Chicago and northwestern Indiana, where he grew up watching his mother work as a newspaper section editor and morning radio personality. Through her example, he discovered a love of writing and broadcasting. She helped nurture an appreciation for words and their ability to bring people together, a lesson that would shape his life’s work.
An adventurous spirit carried Rick from the Midwest to California and around the world as part of a cruise line’s entertainment staff. That journey eventually brought him to Hawaiʻi more than three decades ago. Here, he put down roots, pursued his career and found a place to raise his family.
Over the years, listeners have come to know him through The Rick Hamada Program on NewsRadio 830 KHVH. His engaging interviews and lively discussions have made him a recognizable presence on Hawaiʻi’s airwaves. He has also served in leadership roles with iHeartRadio Honolulu, including Program Director and Vice President of Community Relations.
Behind every memorable career are the people, experiences and relationships that give its accomplishments meaning. Pictured, Rick with Blue Note Hawaii President. Photo: Instagram / @khvhradio
Readers have gotten to know Rick through his writing, too. For more than 15 years, his MidWeek column, A Conservative Estimate, offered his perspective on the issues of the day. He continues sharing his observations about government, community concerns and everyday life as a weekly columnist for Aloha State Daily.
Some of his most meaningful work involves helping others tell their stories. Through Community Matters, Rick gives nonprofit organizations, charitable causes and community leaders a platform to share whom they serve, what they hope to accomplish and how others can help. It is an opportunity to introduce listeners to the people working, often quietly, to improve lives across Hawaiʻi.
Yet when Rick reflects on his own life, his proudest accomplishment is being a father to Zachary and Zoe. Beyond the interviews, columns and career milestones, his children are his greatest blessing.
The Honolulu City Council’s Honorary Certificate celebrates four decades of professional achievement alongside a lifetime of connections: the mother who inspired him, the family he treasures and the island community he calls home.
Happy 65th birthday, Rick, and congratulations on 40 years in broadcasting. Mahalo for the stories, the conversations and the many ways you have connected our community.
For Rick Hamada, four decades behind the microphone have been about more than broadcasting. They've been about connecting with the people and communities that make Hawaiʻi home. Photo: Instagram / @khvhradio
Category Tag:
Share this story
Subscribe to the District 9 mailing list
Receive mid-month and end of month updates, sent directly to your email!
