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Bartending, Napping, and Writing: A Maui-based Writer’s Journey in the Hawaiian Creative Industry
05/01/2023
Bartending, Napping, and Writing: A Maui-based Writer’s Journey in the Hawaiian Creative Industry
In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Jonathan Melikidse, a lifetime bartender, producer, director, and writer, whose latest TV show in production, Moku Moku, follows the lives of three upcountry Maui locals as they navigate their way through the adversity of living on an island. Jonathan shares his creative process of writing authentic Maui characters for his pilot, MOKU MOKU, by researching his bartending customers and getting notes from his cast. He talks about his journey of getting the pilot made, his unique method of writing scripts by breaking down sections step by step, and how he gets into his flow state by intentionally napping. We also talk about how bartending helps him pay the bills while also giving him time to apply his creative ideas. Jonathan emphasizes the importance of creators doing whatever they can to get their work made and to keep pushing forward, even when faced with rejection. If you're a writer, creator, or just a fan of the entertainment industry, this episode is definitely for you. Tune in and be inspired by Jonathan Melikidse's journey of following his passion and bringing authentic Maui characters to life. Learn more at
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