Female warriors have been an important part of Hawaiian culture since ancient times.

But presently there's only one fully trained female practitioner and teacher in the Hawaiian martial art of law,

and her name is Michelle Manneu.

Known to many as an actress, stunt coordinator, dancer and martial artist.

Michelle also found time to study business at Harvard.

Her remarkable resume also includes a master's degree in metaphysical sciences.

And then there's her day job where she's been a legal professional for 26 years.

In this episode, I speak to Michelle about her incredibly varied career

as well as the people, traditions and culture of Hawaii, the challenges of the past and present, and her hopes for the future.

Michelle, you've got a superhero like resume.

You seem to be so talented in so many areas.

One thing that struck me though was you went to George Washington University,

then you went to Harvard Business School.

And I think it's fair to say for a lot of people

going down that path that opens up a lot of doors for you and opportunities where

they may disappear into Wall Street, New York, Washington, what have you.

But you made a decision to come back to Hawaii, to embrace the Hawaiian traditions with the dancing, martial arts and so forth.

Was it always your plan when you embarked on your academic career

and worked to promote and protect the Hawaiian culture in various respects?

That's a beautiful question Dan.

I'm kind of conflicted because I'm also half Scandinavian.

So and I also have some Asian on my paternal side.

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