Kūpuna Talk Story with Malama Kula

Talk Story with Kūpuna: Why This Matters to Us

There’s something really grounding about sitting down, slowing the pace, and just talking story with people. No agenda. No rush. Just conversation.

That’s what’s been happening during the monthly Kula Kūpuna Talk Story nights hosted by Mālama Kula at our Upcountry Taproom. It’s become one of those things that reminds us why we care so much about building spaces for community in the first place.

At Lāhainā Brewing Company, we talk a lot about our three pillars: philanthropy, local first, and community connection. Nights like these are where that actually shows up in real life.

Real stories, real connection

These gatherings are simple in the best way.

Kūpuna and community members come together to share stories rooted in Kula and Upcountry Maui. Nothing formal. Just people showing up, listening, and sharing what they carry with them.

It’s not something we always make time for anymore, across generations, across lived experiences. But when we do, it changes the room. You leave feeling more connected not just to the people you met, but to this place we all call home.

We’re grateful we get to help hold space for that.

Supporting Mālama Kula in action

Mālama Kula has been doing steady, important work across Upcountry for years. From land stewardship to community recovery efforts after the Kula fires, they show up where they’re needed and do it with heart.

Kula Kūpuna Talk Story is part of that same mission. It’s about honoring kūpuna, preserving stories, and strengthening connection in a way that feels real and lasting.

During these events, we also donate $1 from every Talk Story beer sold directly to Mālama Kula. It’s a small way to support the work they’re doing and help keep it going.

What community looks like

At the end of the day, this is why we care about these kinds of partnerships.

We brew beer, yes. But more importantly, we try to create space for people to connect. Sometimes that looks like laughter over a pint. Sometimes it looks like quiet listening while someone shares a story that matters to them.

Kula Kūpuna Talk Story nights are a reminder that community doesn’t have to be complicated. It just needs space to happen.

Come join us

If you’ve been thinking about coming by for one of these nights, we’d love to see you. You might come for a beer, but you’ll probably leave with something more meaningful.