Rick Pono’uhane Ho’okuakua Vrenios is a former resident of Kona in Hawaii, now living on the mainland near Chicago.

Told, "You are the one I’ve been waiting for", Rick was hanai’d as the son of a well-respected native Hawaiian Kahuna and charged with the responsibility to carry on the traditions of his adoptive ancestry.

Under the guidance of the late Kahu Lanakila Brandt, Rick received one-on-one training in the practices of La’au Kahea and Po’ohuna (Spiritual Healing and Divine Mysteries) in the Order of Lono. He also continues to have the privilege of ongoing training in the traditions of the Medical Kahuna with Kahu Ed Kaleolani Spencer in the Order of Ku.

Rick was initiated as Kahu O Mana in 2004 and is an authorized teacher and practitioner of Hawaiian spiritual healing. Rick maintains a private practice with clients ranging from professional athletes, world-class dancers, to members of two royal families. Rick has written 2 books, published numerous audio CD programs.

Rick has been a speaker and educator teaching classes throughout the United States and in Europe, and his educational programs attracted participants to his programs from 49 states and 16 different countries.  He and his wife Connie are frequent speakers for associations and professional organizations, and have received the honor of being guest lecturers on Hawaiian Healing, Energy Medicine, and Mind-Body Health for Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine.

He co-founded Ke Ala Kahiko, a center for preserving and continuing the education, healing, and spirituality of Hawaii based on the teachings entrusted to him.