03/09/2026
Why I Use AI for Flyers and artwork in my posts, And Why It Helps Me Bring You Better Programming
Every month, I look forward to sharing our Free Weekend Broadcast lineup - a fresh wave of tropical music, island storytelling, and pure aloha energy. Creating these monthly previews is one of the joys of running ETI RADIO, because it lets me give our Ohana a glimpse of the shows, surprises, and rare musical treasures coming your way.
Recently, I noticed some strong reactions to the fact that the flyers I create to promote ETI RADIO are created using AI. A few people seemed upset or disappointed, and I want to speak openly and kindly about it - with respect for everyone in our community and clarity about why I use the tools I do.
First, let me say this clearly and sincerely: I’m not trying to replace artists.
I have deep admiration for the tiki art community - illustrators, designers, carvers, painters, and creators who bring this culture to life. Their work is part of the heartbeat of tiki. In fact, I personally purchase tiki artwork from many artists and proudly display it throughout my home tiki bar. Their creativity surrounds me every day and inspires the atmosphere of ETI RADIO. I support these artists because I love what they do, and I want their work to thrive.
The flyers, however, serves a different purpose. It’s not meant to compete with handcrafted art or replace anyone’s livelihood. It’s simply a quick, colorful way to share our broadcast lineup each month and other special events that promote ETI RADIO.
For me, AI is a time‑saving tool, not a creative replacement. It helps me handle the graphic‑design side of things so I can pour more energy into what truly matters:
• Producing high‑quality programming
• Restoring vintage recordings
• Curating rare Hawaiian and exotica tracks
• Preparing special segments and storytelling
• Keeping ETI RADIO running smoothly for the Ohana
Instead of spending hours designing flyers every month, I can focus on crafting shows that transport you to paradise. The flyer is just the sign on the door , the real magic is in the music, the voices, the atmosphere, and the aloha spirit we share together.
AI helps me handle the “busywork” so I can invest more time into the creative work that truly matters. It’s like having a digital helper who sets up the decorations while I mix the cocktails, cue the vinyl, and prepare the stories that make ETI RADIO special.
The heart of ETI RADIO will always come from human passion- from love of tiki culture, from the joy of discovery, and from the warmth of sharing island vibes with our listeners. That part will never be automated.
So if you see an AI‑made flyer, know that it’s simply part of the workflow - a way to keep things running smoothly so I can spend more time bringing you sunshine, rare music, and the unmistakable magic of ETI RADIO.
Mahalo for being part of this incredible Ohana and for supporting the music, the culture, the artists, and the creativity that make our island community so special.
- Tiki Brian - Host of ETI RADIO