Our Team

Headshot of Preston 'Kala' Patao

Preston 'Kala' Patao was born and raised on the island of Hawai'i in Kailua-Kona. After graduating from Konawaena High School, he later moved to O’ahu where he attended the University of Hawai'i at Manoa. He now resides in Ewa Beach on O’ahu but frequents his home island – Hawai'i to visit his family, friends and clients.

When he is not spending time with his wife Kaera, 2 sons Ka'onohi and Kahoaka, family and friends, you will find him engaging in just about any type of sporting event. But his all-time favorite sport is golf. Kala is seated as Vice President for Uluhua’o o Hualalai, an organization that serves to connect the Kona community to Hualalai’s natural and cultural resources through ‘aina stewardship. He also sits as a Board Member on The Children's House council. The Children's House provides a child-centered education where the strength of character and excellence in academics is nurtured in a harmonious, Christian environment. 

Kala began his career at New York Life in 2011 as an agent and soon after became a Registered Representative with NYLIFE Securities LLC. Kala started with humble beginnings, as he has participated in New York Life's well-known training program and attended NYLIC University. 

With intent on building long-term relationships, his purpose is to provide some comfort by helping his clients establish a solid financial future. No matter what stage you are on in your life’s journey, Kala’s motivation has always stemmed from the welfare of his family and community.  

Notable Awards and Achievements:

  • 2021-2022 New York Life President's Council Member*

  • 2020-2023 Million Dollar Round Table Qualifying Member**

  • Annuity Elite Gold 2020-2022

  • 2018 Annuity Elite Silver

  • 2013, 2015, 2017-2020 New York Life Executive Council Member*

  • 2020-2022 Life Super Stars Award

  • 2013, 2015, 2020 Life All-Stars Award

Hualalai Financial LLC was founded by Kala with the goal of connecting with his local community and creating a sense of familiarity and family to his clients and prospects. Kala believes everyone on their life journey, should be educated in how to secure their future and leave a legacy for their ‘Ohana. Since beginning his New York Life career in 2011, Kala has found no greater joy than seeing his clients thrive and grow.

*Awarded by New York Life Insurance Company for outstanding sales achievements. Council is an annual company recognition program based on agent production from July 1- June 30.

**MDRT is recognized throughout the industry as the standard of excellence in life insurance sales performance.

Lisa began working for Kala as his administrative assistant in August of 2022. She takes getting to know Kala’s clients and families very seriously and hopes to connect with all of them with a sense of appreciation and empathy. She strongly believes in the golden rule and that we learn something new every day! 

Lisa has lived in Southern California since 2012, with her husband Adolfo and their four children. They are a family of dog lovers and as a family decided to support the canine community by fostering through local rescues. As a military spouse, Lisa holds value to what truly makes a HOME and the impact being present. Lisa’s hobbies include family-based outings such as hiking, park visits, and beach days, she also enjoys independent sports such as snowboarding, weightlifting, and skateboarding.