Transgender Day of Remembrance 2025
November 5, 2025
An interview with "Living Local in Hawaii" radio show host Leona Rocha Wilson and Linda Puppolo, Executive Director, Maui AIDS Foundation
Linda Puppolo had the honor of being interviewed on a Maui radio show called “Living Local with Leona” on Akamai Broadcasting of Hawaii in March, 2026.
Leona opens the interview with a clear sense of respect and curiosity, welcoming Linda Puppolo not just as a guest but as a deeply valued leader in Maui’s community.
From the start, Linda’s work with the Maui AIDS Foundation is framed as both impactful and essential, setting the tone for a discussion that goes far beyond titles and accolades. While her long list of honors is acknowledged, Linda quickly redirects the spotlight to the team behind her, emphasizing that their collective effort—especially during the challenges of COVID—made those achievements possible.
Leona leads her listeners into Linda’s personal story, tracing a journey that spans decades, industries, and life experiences before ultimately leading her to Maui, where she has now spent over 40 years. Her path is anything but conventional, shaped by resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to take risks. That same spirit carries into her leadership today, where she oversees a wide range of services rooted in compassion, access, and community care.
What follows is not just a conversation about public health, but an honest, approachable look at the realities people face—from stigma and fear to education and prevention. Through it all, Linda’s voice remains grounded in one core message: creating safe, confidential spaces and meeting people where they are can change lives.
Learn more about Linda Puppolo and Maui Aids Foundation at www.MauiAids.org. Get more assistance by calling 808-242-4900
