Lance E. Lee Podcast from Tokyo: Recent Episodes
Lance E. Lee
Founder of IGC / I Can Gymnastics Programs / The Resource Group Former President at The Tokyo American Club / 18-year tenure on the TAC Board Former President at The American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) Former Physical Education Teacher at The American School in Japan Served in the United States Air Force From Los Angeles, California Lives in Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, Japan Konnichiwa (Hello!) and Yohkoso (Welcome!) to the Lance E. Lee podcast from Tokyo. This podcast is about my friends, their experiences, daily life, etc., in Japan, where I have resided all of my adult life. Have you ever been to Japan? Are you an aspiring traveler? Do you have dreams of living in a foreign country? Do you want access to a network for your business, social activities, relationships? This can be a new, exciting, innovative world through the stories of Ex-pats and members of their community in Japan. Meet people, be inspired, and LIVE YOUR DREAMS...!! Let's make this journey a great one.
Dear Valued Readers,
Prepare to embark on an exhilarating journey through the life and
achievements of Tim Neely, a visionary entrepreneur who has seamlessly
merged his expertise in motor vehicles and advertising to create a
boutique consulting firm dedicated to aiding foreign companies entering
Japan and Japanese firms expanding globally.
In our upcoming podcast episode, we dive deep into Tim's fascinating
background, where his passion for Japan and its language was ignited
during his adolescence through the disciplines of boxing and karate.
Witness how these early experiences laid the foundation for his
remarkable journey.
While many paths lay before him, including the allure of medical school,
Tim's unwavering dedication to mastering the Japanese language led him
down a different road. Throughout college, he prioritized language
studies, ultimately culminating in enrollment in a prestigious
graduate-level Japanese language program at Keio University.
Recently, Tim achieved a monumental milestone by obtaining the coveted
Japanese ohgata license—a testament to his perseverance and commitment.
Now, as he stands at the precipice of a new chapter, Tim contemplates
his next adventure, contemplating the selection of a bike for his
upcoming journeys.
Join us as we uncover the secrets to Tim Neely's success, learning from
his experiences and gaining invaluable insights into navigating the
complexities of the Japanese business landscape. Don't miss out on this
opportunity to be inspired and empowered by Tim's incredible story!
Dear Book Lovers,
Prepare to be inspired by the remarkable journey of Sue Conolly, the
esteemed library manager at TAC, as she shares her passion for
librarianship and the transformative power of literature.
Join us for an engaging episode in which Sue recounts her inspiring path
to librarianship, a journey fueled by unwavering support from her
family, mentors, and friends. With master's degrees in TESOL and teacher
librarianship, Sue's six years in Illinois proved pivotal, shaping her
into the dedicated library manager she is today.
During her time in Illinois, Sue had the privilege of engaging with the
Center for Teaching Through Children’s Books, where she formed a close
bond with the founder. This connection led to extraordinary
opportunities, including involvement with the prestigious Caldecott
Award committee and the esteemed American Library Association (ALA).
Sue's experiences with these esteemed organizations enriched her
understanding of children's literature and solidified her commitment to
promoting literacy and learning.
As a testament to her unwavering dedication to literature and education,
Sue is eagerly preparing to host her dear friend and renowned author,
Marissa Moss, for a graphic novel workshop in May. This exciting event
promises to benefit the children at TAC, providing them with valuable
insights into the world of graphic novels and fostering a love for
reading and creativity.
Don't miss out on this captivating episode as we delve into Sue
Conolly's inspiring journey and celebrate the profound impact of
literature and education in shaping young minds and enriching lives.
Dear Sustainability Enthusiasts,
Get ready to embark on an enlightening journey with Charles Allard Jr., a visionary entrepreneur and the founder of Delvify. Together, we will explore the intersection of sustainability and technology in the apparel industry.
Join us for a captivating episode where Charles shares his inspiring vision for revolutionizing the apparel industry through innovative AI solutions, placing sustainability at the forefront of his mission. Through Delvify's groundbreaking AI technologies, Charles aims to streamline workflow and drive positive change by digitizing processes and minimizing environmental impact.
In this thought-provoking conversation, Charles reflects on his nomadic upbringing across the United States and Asia, which endowed him with unique insights into global dynamics and cultural nuances. His formative years in Asia profoundly shaped his worldview, instilling in him a deep appreciation for diversity and a keen understanding of the fault lines that exist between nations.
As he pursued his studies at Tulane University in Louisiana, Charles excelled in Japanese studies, inspired by the teachings of scholar Raymond Esthus. Drawing from his robust background in finance, Charles advocates for the application of statistics as a powerful tool for understanding the ultimate reality and driving meaningful change.
Through a holistic approach that bridges his diverse experiences and expertise, Charles is leading the charge toward innovation and sustainability in the apparel sector. His unwavering commitment to sustainability, coupled with his innovative AI solutions, promises to reshape the future of the industry and pave the way for a more environmentally conscious and socially responsible world.
Don't miss out on this insightful episode as we explore Charles Allard Jr.'s inspiring journey and gain valuable insights into the transformative potential of technology and sustainability in the apparel industry.
Exciting Podcast Episode Alert: Unveiling the Journey of Resilience with Erica Ituralde!
Dear Podcast Enthusiasts,
Prepare to embark on an inspiring voyage as we delve into the life and experiences of Erica Ituralde, a Tokyo transplant whose story resonates deeply with those navigating life's twists and turns.
In our upcoming podcast episode, we have the privilege of hearing Erica's compelling narrative of relocation to Tokyo six years ago, driven by her desire for quality time with her mother, who had made Japan her home since 1999. As an integral part of the TAC community for five years, Erica offers invaluable insights into the intricacies of life in Japan and the profound impact of dealing with culture shock head-on.
But Erica's story goes beyond the surface – she bravely opens up about her personal journey of healing from childhood trauma through therapy. In a candid discussion, she emphasizes the paramount importance of mental health and shares powerful insights into the transformative power of controlling one's thoughts to navigate life's myriad challenges.
Through Erica's experiences, we witness the epitome of resilience and the profound impact of prioritizing emotional well-being amidst the backdrop of cultural adjustments. Her story is not just about overcoming obstacles; it's about embracing vulnerability and emerging stronger on the other side.
Join us as we uncover Erica's journey of resilience, empowerment, and self-discovery. Tune in to our podcast episode and be prepared to be moved, inspired, and empowered!
Dear Podcast Enthusiasts,
Prepare to embark on a fascinating journey as we uncover Steffen Eckart's inspiring story—a testament to the enduring power of curiosity, exploration, and the pursuit of diverse experiences.
Join us for an enriching episode where Steffen shares his captivating journey, ignited by a childhood hobby that would shape his life's trajectory—stamp collecting. From the early days of flipping through stamp albums to his teenage travels across Scandinavia, Steffen's curiosity about diverse cultures and people was sparked, setting the stage for a lifetime of exploration.
In this compelling episode, Steffen delves into his formative years, recounting how his travels as a teenager inspired his pursuit of languages, leading him to master German and French. His passion for language and culture would later pave the way for transformative experiences in Japan, where he immersed himself in the local community while teaching English at prestigious institutions like NOVA and ALC Education.
Venturing into the corporate realm, Steffen's journey took him to esteemed organizations such as Goldman Sachs and Takeda Pharmaceuticals, where he gained invaluable professional experience while continuing to nurture his passion for exploration and cultural exchange.
Now, as a devoted husband and father to a 17-year-old son, Steffen continues to embrace new experiences and opportunities shaped by his lifelong passion for exploration and curiosity about the world around him.
Join us as we delve into the rich tapestry of Steffen Eckart's life, brimming with moments of discovery, growth, and profound insight. His story serves as a testament to the transformative power of curiosity and the boundless possibilities that await those who dare to explore.
Don't miss out on this captivating episode as we unveil Steffen Eckart's inspiring journey and gain invaluable insights into the enduring pursuit of exploration and discovery.
Prepare to embark on a thought-provoking journey as we delve into Nina Sekiguchi's captivating story—a testament to resilience, determination, and the complexities of identity.
Join us for an enlightening episode in which Nina shares her deeply personal reflections on navigating the intricacies of identity as a mixed-race individual raised in the US. Her journey is one of profound self-discovery and resilience, enriched by her unique experiences and perspectives.
From her early days grappling with the challenge of not speaking Japanese to embracing her Black American heritage, Nina's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the pursuit of self-acceptance. After embarking on a transformative journey in the US Air Force and obtaining degrees in communications and a master’s degree as a single parent, Nina's path led her to Japan—a decision that would shape her life in unexpected ways.
Supported by the unwavering love of family and friends, Nina made the courageous decision to pause her thriving IT career to embark on a journey of cultural immersion and language acquisition. Her six-year odyssey in Japan, culminating in a joyous marriage, is a testament to her resilience and unwavering determination to embrace life's challenges head-on.
In this insightful episode, Nina draws poignant parallels between her own journey and the experience of parenting four mixed-race sons, offering invaluable insights into the complexities of identity and upbringing in diverse environments. Her story resonates deeply, shedding light on the universal quest for belonging and self-understanding.
Join us as we explore Nina Sekiguchi's rich tapestry of life, brimming with moments of triumph, introspection, and profound wisdom. Her story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for all those navigating the complexities of identity and diversity.
Don't miss out on this enlightening episode as we uncover the inspiring journey of Nina Sekiguchi and gain invaluable insights into the power of resilience and self-discovery.
Dear Podcast Enthusiasts,
Prepare to be inspired as we unravel Beau Becker's remarkable journey—a true embodiment of determination and resilience! Join us for an extraordinary episode in which Beau shares his captivating story of ambition, cultural exploration, and entrepreneurial triumph.
Beau demonstrated an unwavering drive to pursue his goals from a young age. Armed with mechanical engineering and business degrees from Northwestern University, he embarked on a path fueled by ambition and curiosity. His journey took him across borders and cultures as he immersed himself in the rich tapestry of China and Japan.
At the age of 22, Beau set three life-defining goals, each meticulously pursued with relentless dedication. Fluent in Chinese and Japanese, he navigated the intricacies of overseas operations in Shanghai and Osaka, honing his leadership and entrepreneurial acumen along the way.
The culmination of Beau's journey led to the establishment of Reiwa Pharmaceuticals in Japan, where his passion for innovation shines through his revolutionary anti-flush product, Akan. Through Akan, Beau strives to mitigate the adverse effects of alcohol, showcasing his commitment to enhancing the well-being of individuals.
Join us as we delve into Beau's inspiring narrative, brimming with moments of triumph, resilience, and unwavering determination. His story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the limitless potential of the human spirit.
Don't miss out on this enlightening episode as we uncover Beau Becker's extraordinary journey and gain invaluable insights into the world of entrepreneurship and innovation!
Dear Tech Enthusiasts,
Get ready for an enlightening episode as we delve into the dynamic world of Silicon Valley with none other than Robert Sharp! With over 30 years of expertise in the tech sector, Robert is on a mission to assist startup companies in San Francisco while also nurturing the growth of Japanese startups on the global stage.
As an alumnus of prestigious international schools such as NIS and ASIJ, Robert brings a unique perspective to the table. He combines his Silicon Valley background with his deep-rooted connections to Japan. His dedication to supporting startups is evident as he seeks the perfect match to lend his expertise and guidance.
Robert's hands-on approach sets him apart. He focuses on working closely with one company at a time, ensuring personalized attention and tailored strategies for success. In this episode, he shares valuable insights into the startup ecosystem, discussing key trends, challenges, and opportunities in the ever-evolving tech landscape.
But that's not all! Join us as we trip down memory lane and explore the vibrant Tokyo expat community of the 1970s and 1980s. From international schools to iconic establishments like the Tokyo American Club, Robert provides fascinating anecdotes and reflections on the cultural tapestry of that era.
Don't miss this opportunity to gain insider knowledge and firsthand experiences from Silicon Valley expert Robert Sharp!
Dear Global Business Enthusiasts,
Prepare to be captivated by a remarkable episode as we dive into the fascinating Tokyo journey of Sally Townsend, representing South Australia with unwavering dedication and passion. Join us as we explore Sally's incredible story, filled with unique experiences and valuable insights gathered over her 24 years in Japan.
Sally's Tokyo journey began with a bold step forward: She eagerly embraced the opportunity to represent South Australia in the bustling metropolis. With her persuasive skills and vision, Sally successfully convinced the former premier to inaugurate the Tokyo office, marking the beginning of a transformative chapter in her career.
Entrusted with overseeing the trade and investment division, Sally brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table, drawing from her extensive experience in Japan. Throughout her journey, she has encountered the country's rich culture, navigated its intricate business landscape, and forged meaningful connections that have shaped her professional trajectory.
In this episode, Sally shares her invaluable insights into Japan, offering a firsthand account of the country's dynamics and nuances. From her early days as a foreigner in the bustling streets of Tokyo to her current role as a representative of South Australia, Sally's journey is nothing short of inspiring.
Don't miss this opportunity to gain unique perspectives and valuable insights into Japan's business landscape with Sally Townsend!
Dear Crime Enthusiasts,
Get ready for an enthralling episode as we delve into the fascinating world of criminal investigation with none other than Chelsea Binns! Join us as we uncover Chelsea's captivating journey, from her childhood fascination with TV police shows to her esteemed career as a professor specializing in fraud-based criminal investigation.
Chelsea's intrigue with criminal investigation was sparked from a young age by her grandmother's love for TV police dramas. This passion led her to pursue a PhD in criminal justice and embark on a rewarding career as an educator. As a professor, Chelsea imparts her knowledge and expertise to aspiring investigators, shaping the minds of future crime solvers.
Adding to her impressive accomplishments, Chelsea is also an accomplished author. She has penned two books in the investigative genre: "The Art of Investigation" and its sequel, "The Art of Investigation Revisited." Both books are available on Amazon and CRC Press and offer invaluable insights into the art and science of investigation.
Since last June, Chelsea has embarked on an exciting adventure in Japan, immersing herself in the country's rich culture and vibrant landscapes. In this episode, she shares her impressions of Japan, offering unique perspectives and experiences that intrigue and inspire you.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to explore the world of criminal investigation with Chelsea Binns and gain valuable insights into the art of solving mysteries!
Dear Food Enthusiasts,
Prepare your taste buds for an exciting culinary adventure as we bring you an exclusive podcast episode featuring Sakura Cynthia Nozawa, a rising star in the catering industry! Join us as we delve into Sakura's fascinating journey from her roots in Okinawa to her flourishing career in the culinary world.
Born and raised in the vibrant landscapes of Okinawa, Sakura's passion for cooking was ignited at a young age. One year ago, she ventured into the catering industry while also excelling in her role at Nim’s Pizza in Azabu Juban. Drawing upon her culinary expertise and diverse experiences, Sakura has quickly made a name for herself in Tokyo's bustling food scene.
Sakura's journey into catering was shaped by her tenure at an apparel and food company in Asakusa, where she honed her skills in catering for Shibuya and Harajuku patrons. With a deep appreciation for gatherings and social interactions, Sakura seamlessly integrated catering into her culinary repertoire, bringing joy and flavor to every event she caters.
This episode promises to be a feast for the senses, offering insights into Sakura's culinary inspirations, creative dishes, and the art of bringing people together through food. Don't miss out on this opportunity to discover the culinary delights of Sakura Cynthia Nozawa and be inspired to embark on your own culinary adventures!
Dear Compassionate Souls,
Prepare to be inspired as we embark on a transformative journey with Jane Best, a remarkable individual whose dedication to humanitarian causes has left an indelible mark on communities worldwide. Join us for an insightful conversation as Jane shares her extraordinary life story and unwavering commitment to Refugee Empowerment International, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) around the globe.
As a long-time resident of Tokyo, Jane's passion for making a difference has guided her involvement with Refugee Empowerment International. Through this organization, she has played a pivotal role in raising funds for refugees and IDPs, supporting projects that provide opportunities for individuals to sustain their livelihoods and rebuild their futures.
"Our model is a hand-up, not a hand-out," Jane emphasizes, highlighting the organization's focus on empowering individuals to become self-sufficient and contribute positively to their communities. Refugee Empowerment International is paving the way for lasting change and transformation in challenged communities worldwide by managing practical projects that foster self-sufficiency.
This episode promises to be an eye-opening experience, shedding light on the critical issues surrounding refugees, asylum seekers, and IDPs worldwide. Join us as we delve into the power of empowerment with Jane Best and discover how each of us can make a difference in the lives of others.
Dear Sports Enthusiasts,
Get ready for an exhilarating episode as we welcome back Julius Goldsmith, co-founder and CEO of Playaz4Playaz, for his second interview on the LEL podcast! Join us as we explore the cutting-edge innovations of Playaz4Playaz, a groundbreaking sports technology company that is revolutionizing the way fans engage with their favorite athletes and teams.
Playaz4Playaz is taking the sports industry by storm with its innovative approach to real-time fan engagement. Partnering with athletes and teams, Playaz4Playaz creates a dynamic ecosystem that fosters a close-knit community of sports enthusiasts. Julius is passionate about this platform, which enhances the fan experience and supports athletes financially, even after retirement.
Through the Playaz4Playaz app, fans can engage with a variety of engagement tiers, from exclusive content to interactive experiences. They can even run their channels and become sports influencers, further deepening their connection to the sports they love.
Julius and his team are expanding their horizons and exploring sports opportunities in Japan, France, and the USA. With their innovative approach and ambitious vision, Playaz4Playaz is poised to make a lasting impact on the global sports landscape.
Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to gain insights from Julius Goldsmith and learn more about the future of sports technology and fan engagement!
Prepare to be transported into the enchanting world of rural Hiroshima, where sustainability meets adventure, and passion fuels change. In our latest episode, we sit down with the remarkable Joy Jarman Walsh and her family, who have dedicated themselves to championing sustainability and tourism initiatives in this picturesque region.
Join us as Joy shares her compelling journey, ignited by childhood trauma, leading her towards embracing a vegan lifestyle—a journey she now shares with her husband, whom she serendipitously met during the JET program.
Departing from her role as an assistant professor in 2019, Joy embarked on a quest to pursue her passion for sustainability and tourism, embarking on a collaborative journey with her husband. Together, they have woven a tapestry of innovation and community engagement, leaving a lasting impact on the landscape of rural Hiroshima.
In this insightful episode, we delve deep into Japan's rich culture and progress, exchanging invaluable insights on its resilience, technological advancements, and the ongoing wave of innovations in sustainability. As residents of Japan, Joy and I share a profound appreciation for the country's high quality of life and its unwavering commitment to sustainable practices.
Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to glean wisdom from Joy Jarman Walsh as she paints a vivid picture of life in rural Hiroshima, where every action counts towards building a better, more sustainable future.
Prepare to be inspired as we delve into the extraordinary journey of Karl Burrow in our latest podcast episode. Join us as we uncover Karl's remarkable path from high school drama enthusiast to global visionary, driven by a thirst for knowledge and a passion for innovation.
Karl's journey began with the mentorship of his high school drama teacher, igniting a spark that would shape his future endeavors. Initially drawn to theater with a scholarship, Karl's insatiable curiosity led him to the University of Maryland, where he set his sights on becoming a global visionary.
Utilizing his coding background and leveraging his skills, Karl ventured into the world of banking and finance in Japan, where he excelled at First Boston (Credit Suisse). His expertise and innovative mindset caught the attention of industry leaders, leading to the co-authoring of "Business Model Generation," a groundbreaking book that has reshaped the landscape of corporate innovation.
Today, Karl channels his passion for innovation and business model design through Karlstone Capital, where he instructs corporate innovation and advises on strategic services. Through Karlstone Capital, Karl is empowering businesses to embrace innovation and design thinking, paving the way for groundbreaking solutions and transformative growth.
Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to gain insights from Karl Burrow and discover the keys to unlocking your potential as a global visionary!
Dear Food Enthusiasts,
Get ready for a mouthwatering journey as we delve into the fascinating world of food and nutrition with Dawn McGee in our latest podcast episode. Join us as we uncover Dawn's inspiring transition from her high-tech sales and marketing career to her newfound passion for exploring diverse cultures through cuisine.
Driven by her insatiable curiosity and love for culinary adventures, Dawn is embarking on an exciting journey into the food and nutrition domain. Through her experiences, she shares invaluable insights into the importance of balanced, healthy eating to enhance metabolism and energy levels throughout the day.
Dawn's holistic approach to nutrition goes beyond just food—it's about nourishing both the body and mind for a sustainable, healthy lifestyle. She emphasizes the interconnectedness between brain and gut health and recognizes the profound impact of nutrition on overall well-being.
In this podcast episode, Dawn advocates for lifelong wellness. She guides clients toward optimal health and vitality by prioritizing not just immediate health goals but also long-term wellness. With her wealth of knowledge and passion for healthy living, Dawn is on a mission to empower others to embrace a holistic approach to nutrition and lead fulfilling lives.
Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to gain insights from Dawn McGee and discover the secrets to nourishing your body and mind for a vibrant, healthy lifestyle!
Dear Food Enthusiasts,
In our latest podcast episode, prepare to embark on a delectable journey with Debbie Brosnan, the creative mind behind Effortless Kitchen. Join us as we explore Debbie's inspiring journey from former CPA and stay-at-home mother of three to culinary entrepreneur extraordinaire!
Driven by her childhood passion for cooking, which she inherited from her mom and grandmother, Debbie embarked on a new chapter in her life by launching Effortless Kitchen. What started as a personal chef business evolved into virtual cooking classes during the pandemic, where Debbie found her true calling. Thriving in this teaching environment, she passionately imparts the value of healthy cooking to her students, inspiring them to unleash their culinary creativity in the comfort of their own kitchens.
Debbie's expertise and dedication to her craft culminated in the creation of "The Effortless Kitchen Cookbook," a meticulously crafted collection of recipes designed to make cooking a breeze for home cooks of all levels. Now available on Amazon, this cookbook is a testament to Debbie's culinary prowess and commitment to sharing her love of cooking with the world.
Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this podcast episode is sure to leave you inspired and hungry for more. Join us as we uncover the secrets to effortless cooking and learn how Debbie Brosnan is transforming the culinary landscape, one delicious recipe at a time!
Dear Esteemed Readers,
Prepare to be captivated by an extraordinary tale of resilience, ambition, and success as we delve into the remarkable life journey of John Alkire, a native of Kobe with a fascinating lineage of accomplished immigrants and a Tokyo resident for decades.
In our latest podcast episode, we unlock the doors to John's world, where his journey unfolds like a riveting novel. Guided by his banker father, John ventured into the intricate realm of finance, harnessing his fluency in Japanese to carve a niche for himself at Morgan Stanley. His invaluable contributions in executive meetings with Mitsubishi Real Estate earned him recognition from top executives, paving the way for a stellar career trajectory.
Picture the bustling financial landscape of 1980s Japan, where John navigated with finesse, witnessing the highs and lows of an economic boom. Retiring with a sense of fulfillment, John's story doesn't end there. After a brief hiatus, he returned to Tokyo, embarking on a new adventure by collaborating with a friend's venture, showcasing his unyielding entrepreneurial spirit.
But that's not all – join us as we peel back the layers of John's fascinating life, from his childhood in Japan to his ambitious plans for permanent residency, with homes strategically nestled in Hawaii and San Francisco.
Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to gain insights from a true trailblazer. Tune in now to our podcast episode and embark on a journey of inspiration with John Alkire!
Dear Music Enthusiasts,
Prepare to be captivated by Glen Wood's extraordinary journey as he shares his remarkable story in our latest podcast episode. Join us as we delve into Glen's deep-rooted passion for music, his illustrious career in finance, and his unwavering commitment to corporate sustainability.
From a young age, music has been Glen's first language, igniting a spark of creativity and passion that would shape his life's trajectory. As a child prodigy in Southern Ontario, he mesmerized audiences with his piano performances from the tender age of 10. He later shared his knowledge and love for music as a dedicated teacher during his teenage years.
Glen's journey took an unexpected turn as he ventured into the world of finance, co-founding Smart Vision Logistics and embarking on a two-decade-long career that would see him rise to prominence in the industry. However, his profound connection with Japan captured his heart during his third visit to the JET program.
Through a homestay experience with a welcoming family in Saitama, Glen found a second home and forged deep bonds that he now considers akin to family. His studies at Wharton and the Lauder Institute further enriched his understanding of global business dynamics before he embarked on a finance career that took him from Wall Street to the bustling streets of Tokyo, where he concluded his tenure at Mitsubishi Morgan Stanley.
As an author, Glen eagerly anticipates the release of his upcoming book, "Too Big to Care," in early 2024. The book will delve into corporate sustainability and share insightful experiences, including the circumstances surrounding his departure from Mitsubishi Morgan Stanley.
Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to gain insights from Glen Wood's multifaceted journey and be inspired by his passion for music, finance, and corporate sustainability!
Greetings, Podcast Enthusiasts,
In our latest episode, we bring you an illuminating discussion with none other than Lawyer Christopher Rathbone, a dedicated advocate in the fight against tobacco use.
Christopher Rathbone's commitment to reducing tobacco consumption is unparalleled, evident through his impactful affiliations with prestigious organizations such as the Medical Dental Association of Tobacco Control and the Japan Society for Tobacco Control.
Join us as Christopher delves deep into the intricate web of challenges and triumphs surrounding the global tobacco industry. From the perils of tobacco smoke to the far-reaching influence of giants like Japan Tobacco, he navigates through the complexities with expertise and clarity.
Discover the nuances of secondhand smoke prevention ordinances and explore the fascinating realm of tobacco products, including the intriguing world of fire-safe cigarettes and heated tobacco products recognized as pharmaceuticals in Japan.
This episode isn't just informative; it's a journey into the heart of reshaping Japan's smoking culture. Christopher Rathbone sheds light on the remarkable strides made and the hurdles yet to overcome.
Tune in now to gain invaluable insights into this pressing issue that affects millions worldwide. Don't miss out on this enlightening episode!
Dear Adventurous Souls,
Get ready for an inspiring and dynamic conversation as we unravel the captivating journey of Eric Robinson in our latest podcast episode. Eric, a multifaceted individual with experiences as a US Marine, actor/comedian, and successful entrepreneur in Tokyo, shares his remarkable story that spans entrepreneurship, education, and military service.
From a young age, Eric's entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly as he embarked on his first business venture at the tender age of nine. His mother's strong work ethic instilled in him a deep appreciation for sales. His journey took a unique turn when he joined Wayne State University at just 16, driven by his dream of experiencing Japan firsthand. Through enlistment in the US Marine Corps, Eric found himself on a path that would lead him to Okinawa, where he launched his Japanese adventure.
Tasked with the interrogation translation unit at Camp Lejeune, Eric honed his linguistic skills and immersed himself in the rich tapestry of Japanese culture. His journey culminated in the establishment of Black Tokyo, a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering determination.
Join us as we delve into Eric's distinctive journey, exploring the intersections of entrepreneurship, education, and military service and uncovering the keys to success in navigating life's diverse challenges.
Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to gain insights from Eric Robinson's dynamic journey and be inspired by his resilience, creativity, and unwavering spirit!
Dear Global Citizens,
Prepare for an enlightening journey as we delve into a captivating interview with Ambassador Gilad Cohen, Israel's esteemed Ambassador to Japan since 2021. In this engaging episode, Ambassador Cohen shares candid insights from his roots in Israel and his three decades of diplomatic service, offering a unique perspective on the importance of military service, education, and parenthood.
With a background in political science, Ambassador Cohen's diplomatic journey was ignited during a transformative youth exchange at the Israeli embassy in Germany. Throughout his illustrious career, he has remained deeply passionate about fostering robust Israel-Japan relations, recognizing their pivotal role in shaping the global landscape.
Join us as Ambassador Cohen reflects on the flourishing progress, or "Sakura," in aviation, trade, visas, defense, culture, science, health, and academia, highlighting the remarkable strides made in strengthening the ties between Israel and Japan. Ambassador Cohen provides a compelling glimpse into these two nations' dynamic and evolving relationship through his candid insights and unwavering dedication.
Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to gain firsthand insights from Ambassador Gilad Cohen on Israel-Japan relations. Tune in to this podcast episode and discover the keys to fostering enduring partnerships and collaboration on the global stage!
Dear Japan Enthusiasts,
Get ready for an enlightening and thought-provoking conversation as Ivo Koutsaroff and Lance dive deep into their extensive experiences as long-term residents of Japan in our latest podcast episode. In this captivating discussion, they explore the myriad facets of Japan, from its rich culture and unique mindset to the intricacies of its system, offering invaluable insights into thriving personally and professionally in this dynamic country.
Join us as we embark on a journey through the digital technology era and AI landscape, exploring trending technologies and the challenges and opportunities they present. From navigating the complexities of modern parenting to discovering the keys to sustaining a fulfilling life, Ivo and Lance share their perspectives on how to thrive in Japan's ever-evolving society.
Both Ivo and Lance deeply appreciate the priceless nature of life in Japan and admire the stoicism within its society. Together, they aspire to contribute positively by focusing on self-improvement and purifying the mind, paving the way for a brighter future.
Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to gain insights from two seasoned residents of Japan as they unravel the secrets to thriving in this captivating country. Tune in to this podcast episode and discover the keys to unlocking a fulfilling life in Japan!
Dear Courageous Readers,
Prepare to be moved by the extraordinary tale of resilience and survival as Ron McFarland, a survivor of a traumatic hijacking and plane crash 27 years ago, recounts his harrowing experience in this gripping podcast episode. In this captivating narrative, Ron shares his remarkable journey of overcoming adversity and finding strength in the face of unimaginable challenges.
Amidst his travels with Isuzu Motors as a sales trainer, Ron embarked on a fateful flight from Ethiopia to Nairobi. Little did he know that this journey would forever alter the course of his life. Seated in business class, Ron witnessed the terrifying moment when three hijackers stormed the cockpit, plunging the passengers into a nightmare of uncertainty and fear. In a desperate attempt to land for refueling, the plane tragically crashed into the ocean near Comoro Island.
Miraculously, Ron emerged as a survivor, bravely swimming for his life to reach a nearby boat with another passenger clinging to his neck. This life-altering experience reshaped Ron's perspective, redirecting his career path and propelling him to embrace life's challenges and adventures with newfound courage and resilience.
Join us as we delve into this gripping episode that unveils the indomitable human spirit and the power of resilience in the face of adversity.
Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to gain insights from Ron McFarland's extraordinary journey and be inspired by his unwavering determination to overcome life's greatest trials. Tune in to this podcast episode and be prepared to be moved by his courage and strength!
Prepare to be enthralled by the riveting life narrative of Louis Vigden as he approaches retirement with a vibrant bucket list, chronicling his remarkable journey as the successor to his father's esteemed tobacco enterprise. In this captivating podcast episode, Louis shares invaluable insights into his strategic prowess and innovative endeavors that have reshaped Japan's tobacco landscape.
Entrusted with the monumental task of evolving the company, Louis embarked on a transformative journey, venturing into diverse sectors and acquiring profound insights into the intricacies of the tobacco industry. Despite inheriting a company at just 2% of its previous year's business, Louis's strategic acumen and relentless determination propelled Forte and Black Jack, his innovative products, to unprecedented success, skyrocketing to 1.9 billion sticks annually and sending competitors into a frenzy.
Join us as we delve into the enlightening episode that exposes the dynamic landscape of Japan's tobacco industry and showcases Louis's strategic prowess in ascending to the position of Japan’s 4th largest tobacco company.
Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to gain insights from Louis Vigden's extraordinary journey and innovative business approach. Tune in to this podcast episode and be inspired by his resilience, vision, and unwavering commitment to excellence!
Prepare to be inspired by Christy Carrillo's remarkable insights as she bravely returns for a second video appearance on our podcast. In this captivating episode, Christy delves into the profound impact of passion and love in teaching children, drawing inspiration from her daily exchanges with her 75-year-old mother, who serves as her mentor.
Christy shares invaluable insights from her work at the ASIJELC, addressing various situations with teachers and children. She provides a unique perspective on the school's role and responsibilities, emphasizing the significance of early childhood education in shaping the future of young minds.
With a deep-rooted belief in the transformative power of interactive moments, Christy highlights how these experiences leave a lasting impact on children's lives. She advocates for teaching with love, curiosity, and openness to children's emotional exploration, self-advocacy, and expression.
Join us as we explore Christy and her team's innovative approach to education, where every interaction is infused with care, compassion, and a commitment to nurturing every child's potential.
Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to gain insights from Christy Carrillo's profound perspective on early childhood education. Tune in to this podcast episode and be inspired by her passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to shaping the future generation!
Dear Beloved Subscribers,
Prepare to be captivated by Sagen Johnson's remarkable life journey as he shares his inspiring story on our latest podcast. Sagen's journey is one of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of passion, inspired by his father's dedication to macrobiotics and EST.
Raised in the United States with a mixed-race background, Sagen faced numerous challenges, often feeling like an outsider. However, fueled by his father's influence and innate drive, Sagen embarked on a quest to discover his true calling.
After earning a degree in electrical engineering from Georgia Tech, Sagen set his sights on returning to Japan, his birthplace. His journey was filled with adventure and determination as he interned at BMW, worked in F&B to fund his travels, and even backpacked to Tokyo from Thailand.
Throughout his journey, Sagen's steadfast companion has been his beloved wife, Mami, with whom he has been happily married for 11 years. Together, they share the joy of raising their 10-year-old son, a testament to their bond's strength and fulfillment in the family.
Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to gain insights from Sagen Johnson's extraordinary journey and discover the power of perseverance, determination, and the pursuit of passion. Tune in to this podcast episode and be inspired by his resilience and unwavering spirit!
Dear Adventurous Souls,
Prepare to be inspired by Mami Ogawa's incredible life story as she shares her remarkable journey leading to her 50th birthday. In this captivating podcast episode, Mami opens up about the diverse experiences that have shaped her path, from her humble beginnings attending a Catholic high school in Wichita, Kansas, to pursuing a major in criminal justice in Austin.
Mami's journey took an unexpected turn as she ventured into the IT industry before making a significant leap by joining a Singaporean real estate investment firm and spearheading the opening of their Japan office. After a transformative year off, Mami and her husband embarked on a new chapter by establishing their own company.
With a passion for creating RV parks for campers, Mami's life serves as a testament to the power of embracing unexpected opportunities and navigating through life's twists and turns with grace and resilience.
Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to gain insights from Mami Ogawa's extraordinary journey as she approaches this significant milestone in her life. Tune in to this podcast episode and be inspired by her courage, determination, and unwavering spirit!
Dear Eclectic Explorers,
Prepare to embark on a fascinating journey as we unravel the remarkable life story of Byron Sigel, a marine biologist turned economist whose diverse career path has left an indelible mark on the realms of economics, trade, and environmental conservation.
In this captivating podcast episode, Byron shares insights from his unique life journey, seamlessly blending his expertise in marine science with a distinguished 7-year tenure at the US State Department, where he focused on economics and trade. His transition to the USTR office positioned him as a key trade negotiator for Japan, contributing to significant trade agreements on the president's agenda.
Driven to provide his children with a bilingual and bicultural upbringing, Byron boldly moved to Tokyo, joining Goldman Sachs and later finding his "best job" at the Nature Conservancy. Now retired, he continues to impart knowledge by teaching economics and trade at a university while engaging in consulting projects shaping international trade's future.
Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to gain insights from Byron Sigel's extraordinary journey and his impact on economics, trade, and environmental conservation. Tune in to this podcast episode and be inspired by his resilience, passion, and commitment to making a difference!
Prepare to be enlightened by an extraordinary episode featuring Ambassador Hans Klemm, a distinguished career diplomat with a wealth of experience in the U.S. Foreign Service. In this riveting podcast episode, Ambassador Klemm provides invaluable insights gleaned from his illustrious journey as ambassador to Romania and Timor-Leste and as the Human Resources Officer for the U.S. Department of State.
Thriving on the geographical and functional diversity within the foreign service, Ambassador Klemm's expertise spans continents and cultures. With a deep connection to Asia, he fostered profound relationships with Japan, serving three times at the U.S. embassy in Tokyo.
Even in retirement, Ambassador Klemm continues to immerse himself in Japanese culture and affairs, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to cross-cultural understanding and collaboration. He has embraced learning Japanese, actively participates in the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ), serves on its board, and has taken on the role of the Japan representative for PhRMA.
Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to gain insights from Ambassador Hans Klemm's distinguished career in diplomacy and his enduring connection to Japan. Tune in to this podcast episode and be inspired by his dedication, wisdom, and passion for fostering international relations!
Get ready to embark on an inspiring journey with Rory Viner as he shares his captivating story of transforming childhood music passion into innovative sounds using democratized recording technology and electronic music.
In this thrilling podcast episode, Rory takes us on a mesmerizing adventure through his unique creative process, fueled by his love for music and driven by experimentation with Pure Data software.
His groundbreaking synthesis of music from Japan's suicide data garnered widespread media coverage. It led to captivating lectures in Iceland and Norway, establishing Rory as a trailblazer in the realm of digital artistry.
Transitioning seamlessly into visual art and user-experience design, Rory's 13 years in Japan have been marked by a relentless pursuit of creativity and innovation. Navigating the industry landscape with finesse, he collaborates with both US and domestic companies, leaving an indelible mark with his diverse portfolio of work.
From his animated DKNY logo, which won a prestigious competition, to his ongoing exploration of new artistic frontiers, Rory's creative journey transcends boundaries. It showcases the limitless possibilities of artistic expression.
Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to gain insights from Rory Viner's remarkable creative journey. Tune in now to this podcast episode and be prepared to be inspired by his passion, innovation, and boundless creativity!
Get ready for an insightful journey as we welcome back the esteemed Akio Katsuragi for a second episode, where he unveils the intricate details behind sealing the monumental $16 billion Toshiba privatization deal—the most significant venture of his illustrious career.
At 71 years old, Akio's wealth of experience in finance and investment shines through as he shares the behind-the-scenes stories and challenges encountered during this historic transaction. His unwavering commitment to fostering fair solutions served as a guiding force throughout the negotiation process, ensuring the success of this monumental deal.
In this captivating episode, Akio emphasizes Japan's urgent need for boldness and innovation, urging investment in new ideas and technologies to propel the nation forward. He advocates for a departure from cultural inhibitions and stresses the importance of overcoming the fear of mistakes to drive Japan towards greater innovation and progress.
Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to gain insights from Akio Katsuragi's illustrious career and vision for Japan's future. Tune in now to this podcast episode and be prepared to be inspired by his wisdom, experience, and unwavering dedication to fostering innovation and progress!
Dear Podcast Enthusiasts, Part Two
Prepare to be inspired as we unveil a riveting episode featuring Mark's remarkable journey. Mark is a seasoned professional whose career has been marked by resilience, innovation, and unwavering determination.
In this captivating episode, Mark shares insights from his transition from overseeing a $100M product line for chlamydia to taking on another challenging Asia position for Abbott. With intensive travels across Asia and Australia, Mark's journey was nothing short of extraordinary.
Establishing CGI with Abbott proved pivotal, providing him with access to US military accounts and paving the way for the development of a sizable distribution business. But Mark's journey wasn't without its challenges.
Amidst spearheading the IC2001 infectious control program designed for global usage, Mark faced tough times. Yet, through sheer grit and determination, he overcame these challenges by immersing himself in creative outlets such as writing, painting, and working on his Chiba home.
Dear Esteemed Subscribers,
Get ready for an enthralling two-part series as we delve into Mark Colby's captivating life story from the comfort of his Chiba home, aptly named "The Frogs’ Gate."
In part one of this special episode, we embark on a journey through Mark's formative years, filled with unique experiences and remarkable encounters. From his distinctive grade school days in a "special" school, where lifelong friendships with Blake and Gordon were forged, to the spark of passion for judo ignited at the tender age of 10.
Mark's annual summer trips to Japan, the Mecca of judo, from 1978 to 1988, served as the backdrop for his profound connection to the country and its culture. Despite initially aspiring to become a veterinarian, Mark's path took a different turn towards studying dentistry, eventually leading to a prestigious position in dental diagnostics with Abbott Laboratories.
1988 Mark's journey brought him to Tokyo as the marketing manager for clinical chemistry analysis at Abbott Laboratories, marking the beginning of a new chapter filled with challenges and triumphs.
Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to uncover the fascinating beginnings of Mark Colby's remarkable journey. Tune in to part one of this two-part series and be prepared to be transported into a world of adventure, resilience, and boundless possibilities!
Dear Podcast Enthusiasts,
Get ready to be inspired by the vibrant energy and enthusiasm of Sabrina
Hunter, TAC's newly appointed coordinator for banquet events, as she
takes center stage in our latest podcast episode!
With a passion for fostering connections and creating engaging social
experiences, Sabrina brings a fresh perspective to her role at TAC. Join
us as she shares her diverse experiences from Japan and the US,
offering insights into her journey as a Gen Zer.
In this captivating episode, Sabrina delves into her interests,
aspirations, and practices in self-care, providing valuable insights
into gender issues and the importance of representation in the
workplace. Her dynamic personality and forward-thinking approach promise
to inspire listeners of all backgrounds.
Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to get to know Sabrina
Hunter and discover the exciting energy she brings to TAC's event
department. Tune in now and be prepared to be inspired by her passion,
vision, and dedication to fostering meaningful connections!
Dear Esteemed Readers,
Prepare to embark on a deeply moving journey as we delve into the
heartfelt conversation with Roland Thompson, a devoted father whose life
journey has been profoundly shaped by the unique experiences of raising
his eldest daughter, Yuri.
In this touching episode, Roland courageously opens up about the
challenges and triumphs encountered while raising Yuri, who was born
with a brain injury. Growing up as a foreigner in Japan presented
numerous obstacles. Yet, Roland and his wife, Yuko, navigated through
them with unwavering determination and love, ensuring Yuri had the best
opportunities for growth and integration.
Roland's commitment to making a difference extends beyond his family. He
has played a vital role in the NPO Unleashed Potential (UP) since its
establishment in 2021. Through various initiatives and charity events,
Roland actively empowers challenged communities and spreads hope and
positivity wherever he goes.
As the episode draws to a close, Roland leaves listeners with the
profound Latin phrase "amor fati," emphasizing the importance of
embracing life and all its facets with love and acceptance.
Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to gain insights and
inspiration from Roland Thompson's remarkable journey of love,
resilience, and making a difference. Tune in now and be prepared to be
moved by his compelling story!
Dear Loyal Subscribers,
Prepare to be captivated by a rare glimpse into the remarkable life of Yoav Keidar, as he shares deeply personal insights and experiences that have shaped his extraordinary journey.
In our upcoming podcast episode, Yoav reveals a poignant symbol of his emotions about the Gaza war—a dog tag that serves as a constant reminder of the tumultuous times he has faced. From his upbringing in a kibbutz to his disciplined military service, Yoav's story is a testament to resilience and determination.
Join us as we unravel the layers of Yoav's unique experiences, starting with his academic pursuits under the prestigious Mombu-sho scholarship at Keio University. During this time, he emerged as a crucial liaison between Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and the Israeli government, showcasing his exceptional diplomatic skills and strategic acumen.
Upon returning to Japan after completing his undergraduate studies in Israel, Yoav embarked on a journey of entrepreneurial exploration, delving into various technologies with dedicated investors and establishing several successful companies. Notably, he played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Jewish Technology Fund in Japan—a testament to his commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding and collaboration.
As a proud father of two daughters, Yoav shares a deeply personal connection to the ongoing conflicts, with his eldest daughter serving as an investigative negotiator in the hostage unit in Gaza—an experience that adds a profound dimension to his perspective on global issues.
Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to gain insights and inspiration from Yoav Keidar's extraordinary journey. Tune in now and be prepared to be moved by his compelling story!
Dear Esteemed Subscribers,
Prepare to embark on a riveting exploration of leadership, service, and achievement as we shine a spotlight on the remarkable journey of David Nichols—a true exemplar of excellence and resilience.
From achieving Eagle Scout status as a teenager, where he imbibed invaluable lessons in service and leadership, to his dynamic career trajectory spanning continents, David's story is nothing short of inspiring.
Join us as we delve into David's journey, which began in Japan as an English teacher in Yamaguchi Prefecture. Armed with a thirst for knowledge and a drive for success, he continued his academic pursuits, earning an MBA from UCLA before returning to Tokyo with Morgan Stanley.
Transitioning through various roles at Invesco for asset management and State Street as CAO, David's career path has been marked by unwavering dedication and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Currently, he contributes his expertise to Ernst & Young, where his impact continues to resonate within the industry.
But David's contributions extend beyond the corporate world. As a respected educator, he imparts his wealth of knowledge and experience to students at Temple University and Hosei University, nurturing the leaders of tomorrow.
Join us as we unravel the layers of David's rich experiences, leadership insights, and the dynamic convergence of his professional and educational endeavors. Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to gain wisdom and inspiration from one of today's most influential leaders!
Dear Podcast Enthusiasts,
Prepare to be captivated by the remarkable journey of Alex Ngai as he takes us on a thrilling ride from hip-hop dancer to esteemed DJ, all the way to fulfilling his entrepreneurial dream in Japan.
Embark on an inspiring adventure as Alex shares his evolution from a shy individual to a dynamic DJ, armed with a computer science degree from Tufts University. In 2006, he set foot in Japan, and through persistence and sheer determination, carved a path for himself in the vibrant Tokyo music scene.
Discover how Alex's unwavering perseverance and relentless pursuit of his passion opened doors to his early DJ gigs, ultimately leading to a residency opportunity, courtesy of a college friend's referral. Today, he stands as a testament to the power of resilience and hard work, contributing to the success of Japanese companies expanding overseas while fulfilling his entrepreneurial aspirations.
Join us as we unravel Alex's incredible story of self-discovery, resilience, and entrepreneurial triumph. Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to gain insights and inspiration from one of Japan's most celebrated DJs!
Greetings, Valued Subscribers,
We're thrilled to welcome you back to our channel for an enlightening episode featuring the insightful Adam Fulford. Join us as we delve into the transformative power of human resourcefulness and its profound impact on building resilient and thriving communities.
In this captivating episode, Adam Fulford takes center stage to share his expertise on the importance of tapping into our innate resourcefulness. Discover how this fundamental quality serves as the cornerstone for fostering strong connections and meaningful interactions within our ever-evolving society.
In an era dominated by rapid technological advancements and digital innovation, Adam's unwavering commitment to creating pathways for connectivity throughout Japan stands out. Through his dedication and passion, he has been instrumental in promoting cross-cultural exchanges and fostering a deep sense of mutual understanding among individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Join us as we unravel the secrets behind Adam's mission to cultivate connections rooted in genuine contributions and authentic relationships. Don't miss out on this opportunity to gain valuable insights and inspiration from one of today's leading advocates for human resourcefulness.
The Hoff residence in Itoh City offers a breathtaking backdrop of Sagami Bay, setting the scene for today’s podcast recording. Paul Hoff and I share a long-standing connection, having jointly served on the TAC board and as members of the Tokyo Club. Paul's journey commences with his service in the Peace Corps. His transition to Japan significantly contributed to developing English language training for Japanese corporations. Venturing into the finance sector, Paul witnessed the boom and bust of the Japan Stock Exchange during the 1980s. Recently, he has delivered engaging speeches on the rich history of Izu. Paul and Naomi have found their post-retirement haven in the "Izuvian Republic," where they savor leisurely rounds of golf amidst this idyllic setting.
Ron McFarland has dedicated his entire adult life to Japan, commencing as an English teacher in Tochigi prefecture. While pursuing graduate studies in international business at Sophia University, he balanced student life's demands with teaching responsibilities. Ron reminisces fondly about that period when he resided in a Japanese apartment and frequented the public bath or sentoh. There was a unique sense of community and serenity, wherein Tokyo felt more like a collection of a thousand villages centered around communal sentohs. Subsequently, Ron assumed the role of a trainer for the sales team at Isuzu Motors, a position that saw him traverse the globe in pursuing his professional endeavors.
Michael Bobrove's second episode covers his ascent within Schering Japan to his role in leading Medrad, essentially a start-up in Japan within the competitive contrast media market. His story culminates in establishing HealthyTokyo, a health and wellness company with a stellar reputation for its award-winning, high-quality CBD products and vegan cuisine. Michael shares his business philosophy and vision for transforming HealthyTokyo into a lifestyle brand. He takes pride in this self-funded company, a pioneer and the largest CBD retailer in Japan. The future holds expansion plans on the horizon, and Michael and his team remain steadfast in their commitment to delivering the highest quality and unwavering transparency in their business endeavors.
Randal Potter's transformative journey began in a Kansas public school,
where he crossed paths with an extraordinary history teacher, a true
eccentric who ignited his curiosity about people and their compelling
life narratives. Inspired by the power of education, Randal pursued
graduate studies at the School for International Training in Vermont,
which set the stage for an impactful career in school administration.
His proficiency in Japanese became an invaluable asset as he supported
students from Japan. Today, Randal has evolved into a leadership trainer
and coach, partnering with executives to enhance communication,
empowerment, and team cohesion, all with a strong emphasis on fostering
vision and the art of storytelling.
Bulent Uner returns for his second podcast appearance, and our
conversation unfolds under the warm autumn sun. We delve into his recent
journey back to Turkey, his fitness regimen, his experiences as a
foreigner living in Japan, his affection for the Philippines, his future
aspirations, and the delectable cuisine of Turkey. Bulent candidly
shares his experiences and observations about Turkey, Japan, and the
Philippines. Our growing friendship has been a source of joy; his
authentic warmth shines through in all our interactions.
Linda Sherman Gordon has navigated the corporate landscape, showcasing
her leadership talents in diverse industries, spanning from market
research to food and beverage to the hospitality sector. Her ability to
cultivate connections and curate solutions has been instrumental in her
success. Alongside her husband Ray, Linda shares a deep passion for
longevity and has launched initiatives like Boomer Tech Talk and the
Rethinking Aging Club. The latter hosts two weekly shows on Clubhouse.
Linda reflects on her two extended residencies in Japan and her
dedicated quest to acquire proficiency in Japanese. Currently residing
in Kauai, they lead a health-focused lifestyle, enabling their continued
contributions to Marine Biologies & Environmental Technologies
Corporation, MBET Health Wound Care, and Miracle of the Sea.
A forty-year resident of Japan, Michael Bobrove possesses profound
insights into Japan's medical industry and healthcare. He attributes his
drive to make a positive impact to the upbringing he received from
highly educated parents who instilled in him and his two brothers the
values of hard work and determination. Michael spoke of his deep
affection for Japan, a love that sprouted from a professor at Antioch
College who introduced him to the Japanese language. Japan's rich
culture and history captivated him, fostering a deep connection with the
country. On his third return to Japan, he assumed a position at
Schering, dedicating 15 years to the pharmaceutical sector and ascending
to an executive role.
Shannol Grant, aka SA, of Boss Uncaged, is on a transformative journey
of entrepreneurship as he meticulously aligns the dominoes and stacks
life's building blocks. SA reached out to me from Atlanta just a day
prior to his family's week-long visit to Tokyo. During our rich
conversations about podcasting, business strategy, and the exchange of
wisdom, we also seized the opportunity to record episodes for our
respective shows. SA generously shares his life experiences,
underscoring the profound significance of connections, skill
acquisition, and the five-day transaction that propelled him into
entrepreneurship. This encounter was undeniably inspirational,
connecting me with a dynamic mastermind and his wonderful family.
Ambassador Lulama Smuts Ngonyama of South Africa embodies the guiding
principle of humanity, ubuntu. He proudly represents a nation that
endured immense collective trauma during the era of institutionalized
apartheid. Ambassador Ngonyama himself lived through this painful
history and was among those deeply affected who stood up, unwavering in
their resolve, to forge a new South Africa. His political and activist
legacy encompasses significant roles within the ANC and UDF, alongside
grassroots community development efforts. Ambassador Ngonyama speaks
passionately and admires Nelson Mandela and Oliver Tambo, who dedicated
themselves to creating a new, prosperous, democratic South Africa free
from discrimination and united as one nation.
"Fitness has been my life," states Esmond Kusimba, sharing his journey
from Kenya to destinations worldwide, culminating in Japan. He fondly
speaks of Kenya's allure, where many find themselves reluctant to leave.
In approximately three years, he intends to return to Kenya with his
family and establish a fitness center, marking the next chapter in his
life.
In Oshkosh, Wisconsin, the “Mecca of Aviation," 13-year-old Justin J.
Boyson spent weekends alongside members of the EAA constructing 2-seater
airplanes. During his junior year, he achieved a remarkable milestone:
being appointed a congressional page under Newt Gingrich. This role
granted him exclusive access to the Capitol and an up-close view of the
political arena. Justin's enthusiasm for international business steered
his career toward consumer insurance. He has been working with Chubb for
the last ten years, applying his expertise in this field.
Ray Tsuchiyama's interview was a heartfelt tribute to his late father, a
Japanese-American military veteran, and a deep exploration of his
family's heritage and life journey. His paternal grandparents, from
Kumamoto, embarked on their journey to Maui in 1899, while his maternal
roots trace back to Sakhalin off of Hokkaido. Raised in Honolulu's
culturally diverse Kalihi neighborhood, Ray cultivated a profound
appreciation for diversity, which played a pivotal role in his career at
a Tokyo-based gaishikei (foreign investment) firm, where he catered to
clients in emerging global markets.
Chef Sohan Ahluwalia, a native of New Orleans, has tantalized the taste
buds of many food enthusiasts through his pioneering restaurant on
Bourbon Street in Roppongi, Tokyo. Today, he joins us to share life
stories and offer a glimpse into Bistro Bourbon Street, a hidden gem
nestled in Goa, India. Sohan's culinary journey began in childhood, and
after earning his culinary degree, he embarked on a career with the
Hilton group. There, he honed his skills in extracting the exotic
flavors of the South and applied his expertise to craft delectable
creole dishes. Chef Sohan continues to delight patrons with signature
creations like his authentic gumbo, expertly blackened fish fillets,
Cajun-style southern fried chicken, flavorful jambalaya, and much more!
While inherently reserved, Michael McCoy graciously offered insights
into his remarkable journey from Ireland to Japan. He has successfully
established himself as a consultant and coach for global executives and
left an indelible mark as Nikkei's acclaimed change agent within a
multinational corporation. His unique skill set was pivotal in driving a
profoundly positive transformation that resonated throughout the
organization.
Renowned saxophonist Jim Butler aspires to join the ranks of the world's
greatest musicians, drawn by their profound spiritual connection to the
divine. He views musical expression as a potent and potentially
transformative spiritual journey that can be sublime and perilous
without the right grounding. Keep October 8th marked on your calendars
for Jim's concert at Satin Doll (Roppongi), where he will unveil his
latest CD. Prepare to be enthralled by the mesmerizing jazz saxophone
performances of Jim Butler and his exceptional band!
The return of the iconic radio personality, Kamasami Kong...!! In a
totally laidback conversation, we delved into his recent MSC cruise
experience, the launch of a new internet radio show on Heart FM Nagoya,
his successful city pop music albums from the 1980s with AVEX, and
shared many moments of laughter. Kamasami, a true DJ extraordinaire for
life, captivates with his exceptional storytelling, humor, and
unmistakable voice. It was an absolute delight to have him back on the
show.
The benefits of being a parent become much more profound when you have
the opportunity to introduce your kids to the world and society outside
of just family and school. Toshiya Kobayashi has fond memories of
attending business lunches and dinners with his father, where he learned
valuable social skills and business etiquette. His educational journey
continues at the NYU Gallatin School of Individualized Studies, and he
plans to venture into investment banking after college, aiming to
strengthen his abilities in order to contribute to the financial
stability of various companies.
Chuck Wilson's life epitomizes perseverance, resilience, community
service, and impacting lives. Beginning with successfully running the
Clark Hatch Fitness Center, he marked his entry into Japan's fitness
industry. He later excelled in Japan's entertainment sector, gaining
popularity as a gaijin talent. Transitioning to an independent
entrepreneur, he established Chuck Wilson Enterprise, building and
managing multiple fitness centers in Japan. His hospital-based fitness
facility in Ibaragi focuses on the well-being of the ailing and elderly.
Chuck's dedication is evident in his philanthropic initiatives,
including organizing charity runs and fundraising. His extensive judo
teaching career showcases his commitment to imparting knowledge to
children and adults. In his personal training venture, he finds
fulfillment in witnessing clients transform and grow in self-value.
Chuck Wilson's journey is a testament to dedication, compassion, and
impactful contributions.
With a Waseda University law degree and an MBA from Northwestern
University Kellogg School of Management, Sadashi Suzuki emerged as a top
candidate for the TAC board, and as a governor, he adeptly tackled
various club issues with a discerning mindset. With a solid background
in Japan’s pharmaceutical industry and a diverse portfolio in the US
healthcare sector, he understands the significant hurdles emerging
foreign companies encounter when establishing their operational bases in
Japan. Sadashi cherishes his days at Gohongi Elementary School and his
love for baseball.
In his second appearance on the LEL podcast, Dylan Monaghan enlightens
us about the intricacies of the brain and the significance of assuming
control over our brain to bring about constructive shifts in our
behavior. His passion for helping others is evident through his
development of the innovative concept of "Single Threading," a book that
he diligently crafted, dedicating five hours daily for three months.
Furthermore, Dylan acknowledges the merits of utilizing AI as a
performance-enhancing tool akin to a calculator.
Nofil Iqbal, the COO of Profound Vision K.K., possesses a wealth of
experience in securities, banking, tax, and asset management. Drawing
from his extensive career, he comprehensively understands the financial
and corporate domains. Over the course of three years, he diligently
assembled a skilled team of passionate individuals dedicated to
supplying IT engineers to Japanese corporations. Their objective is
proactively addressing METI's forecasted IT engineer shortage in Japan
by 2030.
In today's video episode, join us as we converse with the dynamic
founder and creator of The Pink Cow Restaurant & Art Bar. Not only
is she the mind behind a unique space that marries the nuances of art
with tantalizing gastronomy, but she's also a visionary who sees the
beauty in bridging the worlds of science, technology, music, and art.
The Pink Cow is not just a mere restaurant. Picture a vibrant canvas
where tech enthusiasts, leading scientists, gifted artists, and melodic
geniuses come together to paint a symphony of creativity and innovation.
With events in the past championed by industry titans like Nokia and
HP, this space has welcomed some of the brightest lights in the world of
science and tech. Our guest's profound engagement with crypto and defi
tech illuminates The Pink Cow's commitment to being at the cutting edge
of inspiration and collaboration.
As The Pink Cow gears up to revive their cherished science and art
meetup concept, we explore the essence of merging these diverse fields,
nurturing groundbreaking partnerships, and igniting unparalleled
creativity.
Curious to witness this harmonious blend of disciplines and to delve
deeper into The Pink Cow's journey? Navigate to their website at
https://www.thepinkcow.com and immerse yourself in their "About Us"
section and vivid gallery. Today's visual treat promises not just an
insight into their mission but a feast for the eyes. Enjoy the video,
and for those who have a penchant for aesthetics, don't miss out on the
visuals from our interview session. A little spoiler: our delightful
breakfast was courtesy of The Pink Cow! 🐄🎨🔬🎵.
Cheri Saburi recounts stories from her upbringing in a supportive family
and her journey into elementary education, sparked by her fondness for
interacting with children as a summer camp counselor. After a successful
12-year run leading a company that specialized in educational toys, she
went on to earn a second master's degree in mediated learning. Cheri is
fully aware of the evolving responsibilities of motherhood and places
great importance on dedicating time to her children.
Meeting the Saburis unexpectedly at TAC was truly delightful! Eugene
Saburi, who had a prosperous career at Microsoft and Adobe before
establishing a thriving startup advisory firm, shared enjoyable
anecdotes about his time as Bill Gates' "bag holder," briefing him
during visits to Tokyo. Now, leveraging his extensive 30-year background
and network, Eugene aids startups and private equity firms in
establishing their presence in Tokyo after transitioning from the
corporate world.
Marc Fuoti, a thriving Tokyoite, embodies the essence of a corporate man
turned entrepreneur in Japan's business world, utilizing his experience
and network. Raised in a close-knit Italian-American family, as a high
schooler, he deftly balanced academics, sports, and social life. Armed
with a psychology degree from Rutgers University, Marc worked in
healthcare before founding Holistic Guide and publishing "Growth," a
holistic lifestyle magazine. After selling his company, he explored the
world, landing in Japan, where a profound connection was forged. His
advertising career flourished, pivoting to 20th Century Fox after a
decade. He eventually exited the corporate sphere, establishing Big
Picture International, once a consultancy, now an e-commerce and trading
hub for premium imported foods, liquors, and wines. His fine whiskey
(Uncle Nearest) pairing dinner events are not to be missed!
Alex Easley has successfully navigated Japan's show business for many
years as a foreigner with his contributions to entertainment. Notable
collaborations with renowned designer Kansai Yamamoto and a role in the
acclaimed Japanese film "Ningen no Shomei" mark the highlights. His
fondest memories stem from being a ring announcer for Japan's shoot
boxing and touring extensively throughout Japan. Outside the
entertainment sphere, Alex passionately volunteers for prison and
refugee ministries.
Peter Ferral, a retired sergeant major in the U.S. Marine Corps, proudly
embraces it as “a lifestyle, not a job.” His Marine Corps journey brims
with remarkable moments, including serving as an honor guard at the
White House and developing a love for Japan during his WestPAC
deployment. Fond memories of family road trips and shared pride in the
Marine life with his father and brothers hold a special place in his
heart. Post-retirement, he ventured into the food and beverage industry,
holding positions as general manager at Club Alliance and later at the
Chief Petty Officers Club. Two years ago, Peter embraced a healthier
lifestyle, recognizing the importance of good health as the foundation
for life's endeavors. He credits his wife, Hitomi, for positively
impacting his life and finds joy in being a proud father to their son,
Kenji.
It was a great pleasure and honor to finally "get to know" Karen Anton
Hill, author of the acclaimed memoir "The View From Breast Pocket
Mountain," despite our decades-spanning acquaintance. Karen’s life
stories are inspiring: being raised by her father, aspiring to be a
professional dancer, securing a scholarship to Martha Graham School, the
influence of a fine arts teacher in high school, embarking on a solo
trip to Europe, a year-long adventure with her husband and daughter
through Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, and finally settling in Japan
48 years ago. From her tranquil home in rural Shizuoka, Karen has
touched numerous lives as a gifted writer, consultant, and coach.
website link: KarenHillAnton.com
Adam Fulford's exposure to various cultures began during his youth when
he interacted with people visiting his home. Arriving in Japan as an
English teacher in 1981, he adapted quite smoothly and soon found
comfort in the suburbs of Kamakura. Adam started working with NHK,
following in his older brother's footsteps, who had worked there years
before on attachment from the BBC. Adam established his company in 1985
and has maintained a collaborative working relationship with NHK for 42
years, creating content for programs such as Japanology Plus on NHK
WORLD-JAPAN.
Erik Almadrones, an Executive Fight Night contender, took an intriguing
10-year detour as a chef before pursuing an MBA and joining a boutique
consulting firm. Now, he holds a prominent position at EY, focusing on
consulting and analytics. He collaborated with renowned chefs, including
Ina Garten (the Barefoot Contessa) and Joyce Goldstein, during his
culinary journey. Erik's experience in public speaking enables him to
share valuable insights on successful presentations.
Ruth Marie Jarman has a rich international background, growing up in
Hawaii and experiencing various cultures. After obtaining her BA in
International Relations from Tufts University, she ventured to Japan,
joining Recruit Co., Ltd in 1988. Later, she was invited by her mentor,
Mr. Ezoe, to join his new venture at Space Design Inc., one of the
pioneers in Tokyo's serviced apartments. Ruth now runs Jarman
International KK to foster connections between Japanese companies, local
communities, and international professionals based on insights gained
from interacting with over 40,000 executives during her tenure at Space
Design.
Leila Chiddick, a first-time visitor to Tokyo from UCLA and the daughter
of a longtime friend, discusses her upbringing, education, perspectives
on diversity and microaggressions, her decision to attend UCLA, the
application procedure, and the advantages of therapy. She even
interviewed me as part of her business leadership program presentation!
Apart from her academic pursuits, Leila is an equestrian, and her
dedication to caring for and training her thoroughbred has fostered
independence and responsibility.
At 25, Sandul Vinsuka is determined to assist foreigners in Tokyo
striving to succeed by bridging the gap between them and those who have
already achieved their goals here. Inspired by the LEL podcast, Sandul
reached out to me for a sit-down, which resulted in a delightful
episode! Sandul's Channel https://www.youtube.com/@Sandulvinsuka
At 86 years old, Shizuo Daigoh (Daigoh-san), one of TAC's
longest-standing members (52 years and 7 months), appears incredibly
impressive! With a football background at Keio University, Daigoh-san
maintains his sharpness and fitness through regular workouts. A true
Tokyo native, he comes from a lineage of Japanese bushi (warriors)
through his parents. He has extensive expertise in shipping brokerage
and now stays busy as a consultant, readily providing assistance
whenever he is approached.
Kyoko Takayama, a communications specialist, and keynote speaker
trainer, brings her passion and focus to assisting the Japanese business
community in Tokyo. Kyoko is based in Barcelona, where she has resided
for 17 years. She is equipped with a master's degree in business
communications and public relations, trilingual abilities in English,
Japanese, and Spanish, and a unique understanding of cultural
diversities and nuances in communication styles. kyoko@kyokotakeyama.com
Michael Cobra Suwa, a former professional boxer and current executive
manager at Cryo Tokyo, teaches boxing and emphasizes the significance of
defense in the sport. He trains his students to prioritize circular
fluid movements for self-protection rather than solely concentrating on
offense. Cryo Tokyo offers cryogenic therapy treatments that are
becoming increasingly popular among athletes and have shown promise in
relieving symptoms for patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
Today we have David Pinsker, co-author of "Stories from the Genba"
(featured in the Frank Foley episode), whom I coincidentally met at a
social event. David discusses his upbringing in a close-knit family,
sharing cherished memories. He pursued modern languages during his
college years and arrived in Japan in 1979 to teach English
communication. David said that the James Bond 007 film "You Only Live
Twice" inspired him, and he adapted smoothly to Tokyo life, except for a
period of desolation after two and a half years. Presently, David works
as a senior consultant at LHH.
Gabriella White MCIJ ~ Quadruple Major Honors Dunelm has traveled the
world on a wide variety of business missions and is officially the
most-watched face of the world’s top corporate multilingual broadcasting
channels online, which she has led as a Product Manager, Script
Supervisor, and Presenter, spanning across thousands of series with an
ongoing following surpassing 2 billion and counting, a quarter of the
globe’s entire population. Gabriella worked as a Product Manager
responsible for 42 foreign language broadcasting channels and regularly
hosted the Sunday News with its CEO in Tokyo. A podcast personality and
avid adventurer, Gabriella has evolved into a global representative for
language learning, career development, and recently spiritual
empowerment through manifesting her own dreams and desires around the
world, meeting some unforgettable movers and shakers along the way.
Fundamentally, Gabriella is the Creator and Editor of The Culture Cave,
an online hub that offers insights into her life, the lives of others,
and the inspiring stories they all have to share. Much like Lance E.
Lee, Gabriella interviews people about their lives in podcasts and
unscripted shows to discover what drives us, motivates us, what leads us
to the here and now, what makes us similar but also what makes each and
every one of us awe-inspiringly unique.
In this rare episode, Gabriella is in the hot seat as we find out about
her life growing up as a bilingual girl in County Durham and how the
events in her career, hard work, and synchronicity led to her ending up
at the UN HQ in New York with Japan’s Second Secretary leading the Japan
Peace Mission. The episode ends here at an exciting moment, to be
continued.
Fifteen years strong, the partnership between Eric and Yoko Dahler has
created a bespoke wine-tasting experience for a wide clientele through
their teamwork and sales techniques. Yoko is a graduate of ICU, and
while working with Sumitomo Life Insurance, she met her husband, Eric,
at a social event. They have raised three sons and are currently devoted
to their wine business, residing in the picturesque suburbs of the Boso
peninsula, Chiba.
The tales that shape life's path are truly inspiring, and Tom Byer's
skillful recount of the vital moments that defined his journey is just
that. Soccer became Tom's passion from a young age, and it paved the way
for his multifaceted career as a professional player, coach, media
entertainer, writer, researcher, and consultant. Notable milestones
include representing Nestlé MILO as an ambassador at nationwide soccer
events in Japan, introducing the Coerver Method to the country,
appearing on the popular TV show "Oha-suta," publishing the bestselling
book "Soccer starts at home," serving as a soccer ambassador for global
corporations, and conducting research on soccer's impact on early
childhood development with the Stanford Center. Tom is happily married
and has two academically gifted sons who share his love for soccer.
Despite our backgrounds and upbringings, I found it remarkable that
Vesselin Popovski and I held similar perspectives on leadership, the
teaching profession, rites of passage for manhood, the evolving era,
embracing technology, and parenthood. Vesselin, who had a profound
interest in philosophy during his childhood, pursued international
relations at a prestigious Russian university. His commitment to
research and education across different nations originates from his
aspiration to contribute towards resolving humanity's risks by examining
global governance and critical issues like climate change. Through
organizing scholarly workshops, publishing articles and books, and
delivering regular speeches, Vesselin addresses the challenges we
confront in these fast-changing times.
Chuck Wilson, an esteemed fitness figure, has profound expertise in
martial arts, specifically judo, and is significantly impacting his
students. Despite grappling with childhood illness and perceiving
himself as physically weak, Chuck experienced a pivotal moment when he
was encouraged to lift weights at school, unveiling his innate talent.
Driven to conquer his fears and enhance his capabilities, Chuck embraced
weightlifting, wrestling, and martial arts. His dedication paid off, as
he excelled in numerous judo championships during his service in the
USAF. Eventually, Chuck's journey led him to Japan, where he encountered
Clark Hatch, a trailblazer in Japan's fitness industry. This fortuitous
connection propelled Chuck to become a partner and assume management
for the business in Japan.
Photographer Matthew Jordan Smith has captured a wide range of
individuals, including celebrities and top-tier athletes. In 2021, he
achieved a historic milestone by immersing himself in the Tokyo Olympics
village and documenting the international athletes. Matthew's passion
for photography began at age 10, and he has remained dedicated to his
unique perspective behind the lens. He attributes his exceptional work
and growth as a photographer to his ability to evoke specific emotions,
resulting in capturing the desired appearance of his subjects. His
remarkable talent led to him being recognized as the "cover" man for
Essence magazine, propelling him to become a respected celebrity
photographer.
Naoko Yamazaki, the second Japanese female astronaut, captivated me with
her narratives. Her fascination with the cosmos blossomed during her
childhood in Hokkaido, where the star-studded night sky mesmerized her.
She pursued aerospace engineering at Tokyo University and advanced to
the master's course. For her first venture abroad, Naoko spent a year as
an exchange student at the University of Maryland. While working at
JAXA, she bravely applied for the astronaut program and successfully
navigated the selection process alongside two male colleagues. The
gripping account of her rigorous two-year training and exhilarating
15-day space journey is truly inspiring. Naoko's perception of space and
Earth underwent a remarkable transformation, and she aspires to one day
educate children at a school on the Lunar Station!
Kent Gilbert, a long-term ex-pat in Japan, shares a common goal with
many others who have spent significant time in the country: giving back
to Japan. Originally an attorney with Baker McKenzie and armed with an
MBA, Kent stumbled upon a television career in Japan, appearing in two
highly popular shows, Sekai Marugoto How Much and Sunday Morning. As the
first foreign talent on Japanese television, Kent revolutionized the
media industry, paving the way for a wave of gaijin talents. Throughout
his 43 years in Japan, Kent has been an advocate for positive change in
the country, expressing his opinions on Internet TV and his YouTube
channel. He has also authored an impressive collection of 63 books
covering various topics such as history, Japanese culture, politics, and
his reasons for staying in Japan. Kent's passion lies in Japan's
defense posture, and he frequently gives interviews and speeches. Kent
has also provided insightful suggestions to tackle traffic congestion
and was the first to suggest the idea of implementing a "variable fare"
system for expressways. With his remarkable breadth of knowledge, this
episode is a must-watch for all.
Kenneth F. Arbour and his wife Noriko form a formidable team in the
luxury real estate sector, aiding numerous ex-pat families in their
transition to life in Tokyo. Armed with a master's degree in urban and
regional planning from the University of British Columbia, Kenneth has
devoted 37 years to Century 21, diligently catering to the needs of the
expatriate community with his exceptional team. Having explored various
corners of the globe, Kenneth finds great pleasure in traveling
alongside Noriko, their daughters, and their grandchildren.
Ambitious and talented Noriko Kagami left her fashion industry job for a
three-year solo trip across Europe, residing in Paris, a Portuguese
village, Switzerland, and London. As a child, she excelled academically
and in sports but chose to pursue her artistic inclinations. During her
self-discovery journey, Noriko worked as a chef in Switzerland, a
Japanese instructor, and a receptionist in London. She now runs two
companies in real estate with her husband, Ken, and has her two youngest
daughters working alongside them.
Mike Skurko, the initial gymnast I spotted in a double backflip, also
happens to be one of the earliest I CAN Gymnastics instructors and the
creator of the I CAN instructors' manual. Frequently he’s traveled back
“home” to Tokyo to work with clients for @PRE Consulting Inc and on this
most recent visit on behalf of @TrustInSoft.” Following a brief stint
in writing, Mike transitioned into the realm of software development
startups. It has been 15 years since his focus shifted towards
cybersecurity, and he has dedicated himself to collaborating with
individuals and ardently advocating the fundamental belief that
"stealing is unacceptable."
Jonathan Bethune, an intellectually and musically talented individual
with an IQ of 160, is a member of Mensa and aspired to join the
Philharmonic Orchestra until his teens. However, during his time at NYU,
he decided to switch his major to English education and ventured to
Japan in his early twenties to teach English at both private Japanese
schools and language institutes. Presently, Jonathan manages two
enterprises—a consulting firm specializing in AI and a start-up
dedicated to constructing analytics platforms. He firmly advocates for a
"third way" for humanity's future, especially in light of the
increasing automation trends shaping our world.
Brian Nelson was my reliable wingman during the TAC presidency, and
although he typically prefers relaxing and socializing in Hawaiian
shirts, I felt honored to see him donning a suit for this recording.
Brian took me by surprise with his revelation of a three-year stint as a
professional basketball player in Japan! His entrepreneurial
aspirations were nurtured since childhood, and after several business
endeavors, he emerged as one of Japan's pioneering foreign CEOs, leading
his company to go public. Brian pays it forward by providing guidance
to multiple companies across diverse industries. Additionally, Brian has
spent the past seven years passionately involved in an enjoyable
project with The Kelly Slater Wave Company, a fitting homage to his love
for bodysurfing.
Timothy Connor's passion for languages led to a year in France during
college, where he acquired fluency in French and a desire to make it his
home. Timothy returned to the United States to complete his finance
degree, and at a suggestion from his Japanese language professor, he
applied to the JET program, which brought him to Iwate. Later, he
pursued his design aspirations at Esmod Japan. Building on his success
in the bespoke apparel industry, Timothy diversified into interior
design and the import of designer goods. His consulting expertise was
valued in the opening of the first 10 Disney stores in Japan.
Recognizing his strengths in marketing, promotion, and strategy, Timothy
pursued an MBA while working for a traditional Japanese company. His
company, renamed Synnovate, assists foreign companies in effectively
marketing their products in Japan.
Despite facing the challenges of autism and speech difficulties during
his childhood, Lowell Sheppard overcame these obstacles and pursued his
dreams with unwavering determination. At 12, he accomplished the Miles
for Millions Walk, covering 35 miles and raising funds for Haiti. This
achievement transformed his self-perception. Today, at 68 years old,
Lowell finds great pride in his family and gratification in his
philanthropic efforts. While he initially pursued a career as a
minister, Lowell discovered his lifelong passion in the non-profit
sector. Alongside being an accomplished author, pilot, sailor, and
YouTuber, he manages Navigate 22 and the Never Too Late Academy. Lowell
has embraced his calling by utilizing his superpower of serving others
and building communities around important causes.
Decades ago, I had the pleasure of meeting Lance B. Stuart, and it was
truly delightful to reconnect with him during his recent visit to Tokyo.
Lance, an alumnus of St. Mary's International School, holds great
admiration for the discipline, values, and camaraderie he experienced.
Following his time at Harvard Business School, Lance collaborated
closely with Kenichi Ohmae at Mackenzie's Tokyo branch before venturing
into the realm of educational software by establishing his own company.
With a profound understanding of himself and a genuine enthusiasm for
business and fostering connections, Lance embarked on a path that
involved advising, consulting, and occasionally investing in various
companies. He also actively engages in nonprofit initiatives associated
with the Harvard Business School and the U.S.-Japan Council. Lance
resides in New York with his wife, and his two daughters live close by.
Motivated by his Disney Imagineer uncle, young @Dennis Hubbs aspired to
become an engineer. He diligently pursued his studies, landing a job at
Honeywell. However, Dennis ultimately opted for a career in law to
ensure stability, obtaining his degree from American University. Swiftly
employed in Washington, D.C., he specialized in patent law, working
closely with the firm's leading partner. At 32, Dennis came to Japan,
where he established his own firm. Since then, he has built a solid
business foundation, formed lasting friendships, and found joy in his
life in Japan.
Frank Foley, the author behind a captivating collection of interviews
featuring foreign business figures in Japan who have built thriving
GENBAs through hard work and dedication, makes his second appearance. In
his account of the inspiration behind "Stories from the Genba," the
writing and editing techniques employed, and the manuscript's
organization, I am intrigued by Frank's passion for recounting the
stories of these charismatic individuals, who serve as invaluable
resources for those venturing into Japanese business endeavors. Without a
doubt, this is an essential read for everyone!
Trista Bridges had a carefully planned life, but her journey revealed
the beauty of embracing spontaneity. As the first black family in a
predominantly white neighborhood in Mount Laurel, New Jersey, Trista
overcame challenges that shaped her resilience, honed her self-control,
and gave her insights into the experiences of being a black woman in
America. At the University of Pennsylvania, Trista discovered a sense of
belonging in AKA, a historically black sorority, further enriching her
self-discovery. Despite starting her career at General Mills, she aimed
for more and enrolled in the Kellogg School of Management, where she met
her husband, Mark. Trista recalls the cherished years in France when
they started a family. Today, Trista, co-author of "Leading
Sustainably," advises companies on sustainability while pursuing her
doctoral program.
Darryl Wharton Rigby, the filmmaker, returns for his second appearance
nearly a year after his first episode. He discusses his position as an
assistant professor of production at Temple University Japan. He
introduces his upcoming venture, "Polaris," set to commence filming this
summer if funding and casting fall into place. Darryl directs his
creative energy towards teaching, granting his students the liberty to
make mistakes as long as they derive valuable lessons. We delve into
topics such as the writers' guild strike in the US, the influence of AI
in the film industry, and strategies for establishing regulations to
oversee its utilization.
I have known Kyle Murphy for a long time, as I taught his two children,
and we became acquainted through our social circles at TAC. Kyle, who
served in the US Marine Corps, developed an affinity for Asia while
stationed in Vietnam and decided to remain in this region. Before
joining the US embassy, he pursued a degree in Japanese history at
Sophia University, furthered his studies at Purdue University, and
gained experience at SmithKline. Later, he established his own company,
specializing in medical devices and pharmaceuticals. Kyle reminisces
about his cherished childhood memories from West Virginia.
Dylan Scudder's story is a captivating fairytale come true. At a summer
camp, he negotiated a year-long exchange with a German boy and studied
in Germany when he was 16. Dylan later completed an apprenticeship in
Germany and, fluent in English and German, traveled to Japan for his
third language. He met the Norwegian sociologist and peace and conflict
studies founder Johan Galtung. Dylan followed Johan to Europe and
completed a master's degree in Austria and Spain while working with
Johan. He interned with the UN in Geneva and brokered a partnership
between UNICEF and a Japanese company. After earning a Ph.D. from Tokyo
University, Dylan founded Milestone, a successful training company. He
has been happily married to Noriko for 20 years.
I thoroughly enjoyed accompanying Gregory K. Adams as he recounted his
remarkable life experiences, from his early years amidst Philadelphia's
vibrant and diverse street life to his fraternity days at the University
of Richmond. His journey continued through the MIBS program at the
University of South Carolina and his studies at Waseda University,
accompanied by an internship at Nissan. Greg nurtured a deep-seated
desire to be involved in the automotive industry, a passion for cars
that ignited during his youth. His path led him through various
prestigious automotive conglomerates, culminating in a successful tenure
at the helm of Ferrari Japan as well as Maserati Japan. Presently, Greg
is utilizing his inherent expertise as an advanced product planner,
strategist, and designer at heart to propel Aston Martin to the zenith
of luxury and venture into Formula 1.
In 1988, Geoffrey Walker and I joined TAC, and we have numerous
recollections of the initial TAC facility and its members. While his
father's influence led him to aspire to become a pilot, Geoffrey chose
to pursue Japanese studies and economics at the University of Western
Australia. Before entering the container industry, he gained experience
working with Swire and Sons. Subsequently, Geoffrey served as the
Commissioner for the State Government of New South Wales in Tokyo.
Following his retirement in 2016, he rediscovered his childhood love for
sailing and now enjoys pursuing it with his friends.
Daniel Kim, born and raised in inner-city Chicago, reflects on his
upbringing, defiance of his Korean roots, and navigating the troubled
Chicago public school system. Surprisingly, he found love with a fellow
Korean in Chicago, and he honors his heritage, earning the respect of
his family. Currently serving as CFO in Zurich, Japan, Daniel has called
Tokyo home since 2022. Parenthood brings him immense joy, as he deeply
values his wife's dedication as a superb mother and homemaker to their
two children.
Gordon J. Campbell, a businessman and the author of the thriller, "The
Courier,” recounts his childhood memories and the significant impact of
his Uncle Richard. He also discusses his involvement in introducing a
revolutionary sports medicine product Ortho-Glass and bringing in Hammer
Strength and All American during Japan's fitness boom. As a long-time
resident of Japan, Gordon is presently focused on his second novel and
aims to launch it on the LEL podcast.
It was delightful to host Masako Wouters, whom I had previously taught
her daughter Lilian years ago. Since the unfortunate passing of her
beloved husband, Masako has embarked on golf lessons, seeking solace and
an opportunity to play on the course. Masako has a background in
English literature and studied in England and Scotland. As a skilled
interpreter, she shared intriguing anecdotes about her diverse
clientele, including the Japanese Narcotics Agency, where she
unintentionally elicited confessions from the suspects.
Through her determination and a fortunate set of circumstances, Dr.
Buffy Bennett from Philadelphia earned three degrees, including a
doctorate in educational leadership. She and her husband, Terrell, are
shining examples for their children as they pursue their goals with
dedication, integrity, and character. Buffy and Terrell's relationship
began in college, and she fondly recalls their courtship. However, once
Terrell joined the US Navy, Buffy humbly acknowledges that the early
years of their marriage were challenging as they navigated the
complexities of building a family while adjusting to life in Puerto
Rico. The Bennetts have called Japan home since 2004.
Terrell Bennett is a decorated US Navy E8 sailor who has served for 23
years in the military. However, he is also known for his passion for
music and DJing, going by the stage name DJ Quiet Storm. While his
childhood dream was to become a businessman, he joined the Navy and
worked in communications. Currently, Terrell has taken the E-9 test,
which is the highest rank in the Navy. Among the many destinations he
has visited during his sea duty, the Salomon Islands are the most
impactful and memorable in his heart.
Martyn Naylor’s life trajectory is extraordinary and impactful, taking
on diverse roles as an economics and business professor, advertising
agent, and theater agent, rubbing shoulders with influential figures
such as General Douglas McArthur, Henry Kissinger, Imelda Marcos, and
nationally treasured kabuki actors in Japan. He studied at the London
School of Economics with other international students. He went on to
advise small businesses in the US, where his boss put his name down as a
candidate for the US Presidency in the 1960 elections. Martyn traveled
to 59 countries for marketing analysis and eventually settled in Japan,
where he began his advertising career with Leo Burnett. He later
established his company, Naylor Hara International, and successfully
introduced Dutch dairy products to Japan. Despite his success in
advertising, Martyn’s love for theater, a constant flame since the age
of 7, eventually took over. He was graced with the Most Excellent Order
of the British Empire for his honorable contributions. Martyn is
passionate about his life’s work, bringing British theater to Japan.
The remarkable journey of Matthew Wilson, the president and dean of
Temple University Japan campus, began at the tender age of three when he
impressed a neighbor, Alice, with his ability to communicate and set
his sights on becoming a lawyer. He attended the University of Utah, a
family tradition, and then served as a Mormon elder in Japan, where the
unforgiving climate caused him to return to Utah, facing criticism from
his congregation. Despite the setback, he remained determined to retain
his Japanese language skills, leading him to attend Japanese services
and meet his future wife, Noriko. Matthew and Noriko got married in
Gunma, and with his heart set on a law career, he found work at Yokogawa
Denki. Two degrees at the University of Utah later, he began
undertaking international law studies at Temple University. In
2003-2009, as the law program director, Matthew was part of a
significant milestone, securing the status of a "foreign university,
Japan campus" for Temple amidst the legal and political challenges.
Matthew's outstanding leadership skills and devotion to education and
service have been evident in his remarkable achievements at Temple
University, increasing visibility and undergraduate numbers during the
pandemic.
Health and performance coach and founder of MH Health Coaching, Menya
Hinga, delights me with his life stories and unique experiences as an
American with Kenyan roots raised in Massachusetts. Menya was involved
in sports (track & field, soccer), but the piano was his first love
since 8. Starting with gymnastics and his back flip, Menya sparked a
light in me as we delved into the life of a person of color, in and
outside of the USA.
Throughout the interview, Alana Bonzi exuded a sense of contentment and
joy in her Caribbean identity; her charming anecdotes and wit constantly
amused me. Alana developed a love for Trinidad when she relocated to
Canada, completed her education, and embarked on various career paths,
including social services. Later, she represented Ontario at the
Universal Expo in Spain before joining the JET program and selecting
Kagoshima as her destination. Presently, Alana resides in Fujisawa and
balances teaching sustainability and corporate social responsibility at
the Keio University Fujisawa campus with running a French language
school alongside her husband.
Greg McKenzie, an internationally acclaimed jazz pianist, has made Japan
his home and graces some of Tokyo's most prestigious venues with his
performances. His musical expertise is not limited to the piano, as he
has also honed his organ, bass clarinet, and trumpet skills. A fateful
lawnmower accident resulted in the loss of the tip of his finger, which
sparked a spiritual awakening. While initially enrolled in a classical
piano program at the conservatory, Greg's fascination with jazz
improvisation quickly overtook him.
A lecturer at Keio University, Laurie Wesselhoff is a 29-year resident
of Tokyo and the mother of two teenagers. She says that as a child, she
was very quiet and introverted, some of which still remain. Laurie was
forthcoming with her life experiences, from studying in Australia in
high school to designing her major at Southern Illinois University and
completing a master's degree and Ph.D. The time spent in Australia was
one of the best times of her life, not only opening her up to a
different world but a different part of herself.
Born in the wilds of Alberta, Canada, Christopher Rathbone's early years
were shaped by the unforgiving northern climate. After completing high
school in Saskatoon, he applied to the Rotary Exchange program, landing
in Matsumoto, Japan. Christopher studied history at the University of
Saskatchewan, eventually emerging with a law degree. His interest in
Japan brought him back to the country, this time to Nikko, where he
self-taught himself Japanese. Returning to Canada, he continued his
studies in Japanese at the University of British Columbia. Today,
Christopher is a corporate lawyer with a focus on employment law.
International lawyer and author, L. M. Weeks (Mark), sits down for a
great conversation and some good laughs. Mark was born in Alaska and
grew up in Idaho. Influenced by his father’s practice and pro bono work,
he decided early on to practice law. At 16, Mark comes to Japan as a
Rotarian scholar and returns after high school to attend International
Christian University. Mark’s stories struck some chords in me, and I
enjoyed sharing my experiences and insights. Be sure to check out his #1
international bestseller, "Bottled Lightning"—it is a legal thriller
that you cannot put down!
Challenges have marked Charles McJilton's life journey, but his
resilience and determination have transformed his story into an
inspiring one. Despite a tumultuous upbringing, he found strength in
sobriety at a young age and discovered a new sense of purpose serving in
the US Navy. Later, he made the unconventional choice to live with
Jesuit priests in Tokyo's "slum" district, where he found a deeper
connection to his faith. When faced with the prospect of fatherhood,
Charles embraced the responsibility and stayed in Japan to raise his
child. Today, he is a successful professor at Sophia University and
cherishes his role as a loving father to his four children.
Harvey Thompson is a talented jazz vocalist whose career has taken him
worldwide. Originally a gospel singer, Harvey was introduced to jazz by
Marcus Belgrave and has since performed in Europe, Turkey, and Japan. He
is a regular fixture in the jazz scene, performing at various venues
and recording albums. Recently, Harvey has been collaborating with
musicians from different cultures. His latest single, "Only love, only
peace," is a passion project for world peace and a beacon of hope and
positivity in today's world.
A maverick at heart and not wanting to become "ordinary," Greg Lyon has
navigated life by focusing on experiencing interesting things. Greg
moved away from his hometown and attended American University in
Washington, D.C., where he learned invaluable life lessons. He was a
natural in sports, playing basketball and soccer. Greg did overseas
studies in Spain and returned to the US after solo travels in the Middle
East and Europe. Since 1997, Greg has been a resident of Japan and has
worked for Herman Miller. In 2008, he established Gregory Lyon, Inc.
Born into an academic family, Ivo Koutsaroff was expected to do well
academically, and tutoring added to the weight of the high expectations.
His artistic inclinations took a backseat to science when he was just
eight. He earned a master's degree in applied physics, and after his
military service, he traveled to China for further education. Upon
returning to Bulgaria, he moved to Toronto for post-doctoral studies.
For 25 years, he has poured his heart and soul into turning complex tech
innovations into real-world solutions. Ivo Koutsaroff is a true
innovator.
June Tagawa, an author and freelance Japanese language teacher, does not
believe in retirement, and she found a passion in the third act of her
life. June worked in the banking industry for over 10 years (Bank of
Tokyo and Royal Bank of Canada) and then became a homemaker until her
daughter entered high school. She was hired at the ASIJ-ELC and taught
there for 17 years. At present, June spends her days teaching military
personnel and motivating them with humor.
Garvey McIntosh, the first African American to represent NASA overseas,
has made a positive impact in his twenty years with NASA, fulfilling his
dream of pursuing an international career. Garvey attended Northeastern
University on a football scholarship and, upon graduation, decided to
come to Japan. He completed two internships during graduate school,
including the Boren Fellowship. Garvey is multilingual (Japanese,
Vietnamese, and some Dutch) and has traveled the world with senior
members of NASA, including Charles Bolden, the former administrator of
NASA.
Financial analyst and a newly appointed board member of TAC, Mihoko
Manabe, shares her experiences in New York, starting in the finance
sector, acquiring the CFA, and the importance of developing the "soft
skills" necessary for moving up. Born in Kyoto, Mihoko moved to
Pennsylvania in the first grade. She grew up in North Carolina and
graduated from Wellesley with a degree in Japanese studies.
Bryan J. Jacop came to Japan when he was 16 years old on an exchange
program with a scholarship. He broke the rules as a teenager and opened
the doors to a beautiful life of opportunities and adventure. Bryan has
an affinity for Kansai, and his observation of the differences between
west Japan and Tokyo is refreshing. He spent eight years in the banking
industry, then transitioned to gaming and mobile advertising. Now Bryan
is running his consulting company, Located, and is also invested in
giving back to his community at TAC.
Although there are decades of age difference, I felt a strong affinity
for Bruno Ozeki, and the conversation was like therapy. Perhaps Bruno is
an old soul, or it could be his calm demeanor and thoughtful choice of
words that are strikingly mature. Bruno is a former Olympic swimmer and
has broken national records. He did undergrad studies in ecology and
evolutionary biology. Bruno takes solo trips to enjoy nature and feel
the connection to life, cherishing the moments of soul-searching and
awareness.
The representative director of Global Kigyo and past "I CAN" student,
Miguel Gen Ortiz-Cañavate Ozeki, joins me after a re-encounter at TAC
one morning. Miguel Gen is a retired Olympian for Spain as a
competitive swimmer and has been coaching the TAC swimmers! He and his
girlfriend (business partner) are passionate about guiding and
empowering Japanese companies toward globalization.
Semi-finalist of Miss Universe Japan 2022, Aki Takei, shares her
experience as a Tokyo University graduate with an aerospace engineering
degree and starting her career as a public servant at METI (the Ministry
of Economy, Trade, and Industry). Her childhood dream of becoming an
astronaut motivates her as she continues to find her passion. Aki wants
to express her emotional side through art and music.
Coming out of the pandemic, many of us reassessed our lives. Douglas
Shumway feels optimistic about giving back to the community in this
chapter of his life. Douglas has a wealth of knowledge, experience, and
insight from years of business in a multicultural and multilingual
working environment. He has "walked the walk and talked the talk" in his
own way, and from a place of humility, he aspires to continue sharing
the gifts.
Having Paula J. and J'Nique Nicole on my first mother-daughter episode
fills me with pleasure! Paula and J'Nique Nicole shed light on the
Japanese music industry's unique aspects, their challenges, the
advantages of being an artist of color in Japan, and behind-the-scenes
tidbits of gigs with celebrities. Their passion for music and
appreciation for Japan comes through, as does the sparkle that money
cannot buy.
With a milestone around the corner, Mel Washington aspires to help
improve the understanding of African Americans worldwide. Mel came to
Japan in 1976 as a part of a business exchange program (ISEC) for an
internship at the Nagoya Chamber of Commerce. Mel extended his stay by
joining ALE and teaching English. He started a travel agency that
focused on tours from Japan to the Caribbean islands, the first of its
kind.
Michelle Yumiko Payne has a career journey from music to acting to
hospitality to managing a studio and finally establishing her company
that creates events, produces content, and nurtures new talent. Michelle
spent her childhood in Australia, Japan, and Hawaii, and through this
multicultural experience, she developed a strong sense of self combined
with a passion for meeting people. Listening to her life story, I sense
that Michelle is a confident individual, attuned to her free and
fearless side, and always true to the "fire in her belly."
Discover the Inspiring Story of Sonia Dhillon Marty: Bridging Cultures
and Creating Impact 🌏
Meet Sonia Dhillon Marty, the driving force behind Dhillon Marty K.K.,
and the Dhillon Marty Foundation, an NGO dedicated to addressing
pressing social issues with a focus on the ethics of care. Sonia's
passion for building connections across cultures and communities knows
no bounds.
Her remarkable ability to feel at ease in any setting and with people
from all walks of life is rooted in her deep religious beliefs. With an
open heart and curious mind, Sonia transcends cultural barriers and
forms lasting bonds.
Having arrived in Japan in 2003, Sonia now calls this vibrant country
her home. But her global journey doesn't stop there; she continues to
immerse herself in the diverse cultures of California and Paris, weaving
an intricate tapestry of experiences and insights.
Join us as we delve into the captivating story of Sonia Dhillon Marty, a
true catalyst for change who seamlessly bridges worlds and fosters a
brighter future for all.
Songstress Melodina Santos sits down with me, and we talk about music,
her life experiences, and her exciting trajectory in Dubai. Melodina
started singing as an infant and, throughout her childhood, trained and
entered singing competitions in the Philippines. Melodina came to Japan
after high school and honed her skills through performances. She has
even invited me to join her on stage and make my tenor sax debut!
Of the 210+ podcast guests, Roger Marshall and I have known each other
the longest: 39 years! The interview unveiled how much we have in
common, from the US military experience to getting military assignments
to Japan to returning to Japan for good and building a family and
business. Roger graduated from Sophia University and worked briefly in
advanced education and then recruiting before forming a company with
several partners. While working with KPMG in their executive search
section, Roger was known as the "technology guy." After leaving KPMG,
Roger established his own consulting firm and then joined Paul Ray &
Company, where he has devoted 33 years.
"Japan is a place where you can invent yourself," says Rionne McAvoy, a
pro wrestler and director and producer of documentaries. At an early
age, Rionne started karate and aikido. He dreamed of becoming an action
star or a pro wrestler, and the puzzle pieces came together in Japan.
Rionne debuted as a pro wrestler at age 30 and, during COVID,
established Japan Media Services, producing documentaries for the BBC,
the Fukushima government, and NHK World. Rionne talks about finding his
life's work in documentaries, starting with a poignant story of the
plight of single mothers in Japan.
As a little boy with his father, the long hikes in the mountains were
the gateway to philosophical thinking and piquing interest in science
fiction and fantasy. Christian Schmitz shares stories about his
upbringing in Germany and exposure to a high societal lifestyle, which
opened his mind to many topics in history, music, literature,
spirituality, etc. Christian came to Japan in 1997 as an exchange
student from his college in Germany for East Asian Regional Studies.
Blessed with the genes and the environment of music, J’Nique Nikki
Johnson blossomed into her singing career, overcoming her childhood
shyness. She is a background vocalist and works with Japanese and
foreign artists. J’Nique says that she had a great childhood, absorbing
the cultures of both Japan and Nashville. Besides her vocal talents,
J’Nique is a songwriter and aspires to continue her artistry by
challenging herself in new genres, such as acting and comedy.
It was easy for David to feel at home in Japan as an exchange student in
- A summer internship that led to his first job out of graduate
school that lasted nearly 4 years with Fuji Xerox in cross-cultural
training, David Wagner returned to work for a British company as a
trainer. He then went on his own and, during his free time, wrote
columns for English newspapers. David hosted a number-one show in NHK
Educational for two years and has published several books.
Re-engineering himself as a media crisis trainer, David is now working
solo, primarily online, with clients worldwide.
Finding swimming a passion and a way to beat his two older brothers,
Nils Plett tried out for the Olympics in 1988 and went to university
with a swimming scholarship. Nils first came to Japan in 1989 to study
the language and returned a year later when he was hired by the Taisei
Construction Company. After working with Seiko Instruments and starting
his own company, Nils took a position with the first foreign company,
the Gerson Lehrman Group Japan office. Nils experienced the Japanese
“omotenashi” spirit from the daily construction workers who welcomed him
into the Minami Senju drinking huddle.
Diallo A. Karim belongs to the Fula tribe and came to Japan from Guinea,
Africa, as a teenager. He talks about life in Liberia and Guinea, his
first impressions of Japan, taking his wife to his home in Africa, his
work in Japan, and his two children. Diallo has recently started a used
car business. Diallo is multilingual, loves communicating with people,
and aspires to travel the world.
At 25 years old, Tony Anthony Jordan was asked to write down his life
goals, and he realizes now that all have come true, some more than he
ever imagined. With a congenital heart defect, Tony remembers arguing
with his protective mother to get into sports. He has recently undergone
surgery and talks about how he felt at peace, knowing that he had
accomplished so much if something went wrong. Tony is an artist who
teaches at a junior high school and university. He is a father of four
and enjoys parenthood.
Happily back in Hawaii, his birthplace, Kenneth Berger, cherishes
spending quality family time with his two sons, Noa and Luca. Kenneth
speaks freely about his career path: the grind in sales, his ventures in
the sports licensing business, taking on the most significant life
challenge of entrepreneurship, breakthroughs from financial hardships,
and making his way back to Hawaii, where he has embarked on passion
projects on Duke Kahanamoku, the legendary Hawaiian competitive swimmer
who popularized surfing.
Jon Walsh advocates that producing food "the old way" is the simplest
way to make the most significant difference for humans and this planet.
Jon has been teaching urban farming to children for 10 years, instilling
the importance of growing food without chemicals, which are toxins to
the body, and supporting the community. Jon speaks candidly about his
speech impediment and passionately about his love for gardening to
improve health, sustainability, and disaster preparedness.
A dancer and trainer, Haruno Yamazaki, has been posting fantastic core
moves, which inspired me to ask her to the podcast. I have known Haruno
since she taught ballet at the ASIJELC. Haruno is a single mom raising
two children and recently starred in a film project, re-embracing her
passion for dance. Haruno is showing, by example, to her children the
significance of pursuing a life passion that makes her happy.
David Gichangi Axelson joins me for a second appearance on the podcast,
his signature dreadlocks adding a distinctive accent to the business
suit. On Christmas Eve, 2021, he tied the knot with Miki, his girlfriend
of 11 years. David talks about how his hairstyle provides a good
"twist" to conducting business and is part of his branding. The
conversation covers various subjects, i.e., business, marriage,
children, life in Japan, motorcycles, and singularity.
Per Knudsen has been in Japan since the mid-1980s, and we have served on
the TAC board together. Per and Anne have sailed extensively in Japan
and Europe; they own a 50-foot sailboat in Spain. Per is still involved
in the recruitment business but can be found primarily on his boat or
the ski slopes.
Splitting her time between Denmark and Tokyo, Anne Bille is a practicing
psychiatrist and runs her clinic. She shares her life experiences and
passion for treating undertreated ADHD patients. Anne and her husband,
Per, are avid sailors.
Her strong suit is customer service, and naturally, being a happy
person, Susanna Yung sets a fine example for her staff as the TAC
Recreation Director. Susanna has a solid sports background, having
played basketball, badminton, and squash during her school years. She
majored in sports recreation and was interested in facility management
and operations, which perfectly ties into her responsibilities now as
the head of the Recreation Department.
Ira is back! Before starting his busy day, Ira Bolden dropped in for a
second appearance. Embody customizes sound experiences for a more fully
immersive exploration of video games, musical performances, and content
creation. His father-in-law and wife gave him the final push towards
joining the start-up company, and Ira is passionately involved in
marketing the revolutionary product. We talk about DNA testing,
ancestry, and Africa. Ira’s open and genuine demeanor makes for a great
friend and fellow TAC member.
An avid LEL podcast follower, Michiharu Honda, joins me and shares his
life story. Born in New York, Michiharu returned to Japan to enter
Seikei Elementary School for traditional Japanese education. When his
father transferred to France, Michiharu furthered his schooling in Paris
and then at a boarding school in Zug, Switzerland. Michiharu fondly
remembers how his grandfather believed in him, giving him the confidence
to achieve anything. Michiharu was hired by the Yomiuri Shimbun during
Japan’s bubble time, fulfilling his dream.
For the commemorative 200th episode, a renowned Japanese pop singer, a
TIKTOK and YouTube phenomenon, and a former schoolmate of my sons,
AISHA, joins me, graciously sharing her life and success story. AISHA is
the pure radiance of passion and love for music. Handpicked by the
school music teacher in elementary school, AISHA consumed everything
related to singing, music, and performing. She is so down to earth and
forthcoming, casually demonstrating her vocal stylings during the
interview. A special sneak peek into AISHA’s world!
Lewis H. Lee talks about his life as a "mixed" or "double" individual in
Japan. Lewis says he never had an identity crisis because his father
taught him to love himself first. His education was unique—from an
international school to home-schooling, then to a Japanese public school
to another international school. Lewis has a solid bond and friendship
with his three brothers, mindful of having each other’s backs and
keeping a respectful distance. He shares critical moments that boosted
his confidence and valuable lessons learned on his journey to manhood.
An eye-opening episode, both as the host and a proud dad...
Having Bradley Smith over for a sit-down amidst his hectic schedule was a
great pleasure. Since childhood, Bradley has leaned towards academics
and earned a scholarship to a liberal arts college that included
mentorships and international travel. As a social sciences major
pursuing politics, Bradley was mentored by Ronald Reagan’s direct
fundraiser and was exposed to a world of stimulating ideas and
individuals. He worked closely with the Justice Department and oversaw
the establishment of a branch campus of Eureka College in Japan. Bradley
is evoking change in international education and is proactive in
promoting cultural exchange between the US and Asian countries. He
currently heads the Laurasian PAX Exchange as CEO and President.
Now working with Cutter Studios, Brian Ashenfelder is contributing his
sales and business development expertise to the company that "tells
stories" through its visual productions. He and I met during his time
with the City Club of Tokyo, and I got to know him better while he
worked at TAC for seven years. Brian has been a jack of all trades since
childhood and is quite the storyteller!
A native Miamian, J-p Toppino gives his side of the "origin" story with
his wife, Stephanie, whom he claims "changed his life." J-p cherishes a
unique bond with his older brothers as well as with his nephews, which
shaped his childhood and identity. J-p has been with Secured Capital
since 1993 and was president of Secured Capital Japan. He and his
partners now run the company in real estate, hedge funds, and private
equity. J-P sees himself ending his career and involving himself with
charities and a restaurant.
Newlywed and transferred by her husband’s company, Stephanie Toppino
started her life in Tokyo. TAC provided a place to socialize and build
friendships, and Stephanie quickly involved herself with the Women’s
Group (now Connections) and F&B committees. She is a rarity in the
ex-pat community, having started a family with three children in Tokyo
and staying until now, 25 years later. Stephanie has known her husband
J-p since middle school, and the arc of their relationship can easily be
a romantic comedy script!
A year after his first episode, TAC General Manager Darren Morrish sits
down to talk about how the TAC has navigated the last 12 months of
adjustments and changes. We discuss the return of the community aspect
of the club, members’ reactions to new developments, club life,
employees’ familiarity with members, alignment between the board and
management, etc. Darren is committed to continuing his efforts to work
closely with the new board on direction and strategy. As a former
president of this premier club in Asia, it is an important episode for
me.
One afternoon, in front of a convenience store, I met Dave River and
instantly made a connection. He is a longtime resident of Tokyo and
co-owns a company that manufactures environmentally friendly surfactants
and health food supplements. Dave and his partner, David, have worked
together since 1993 and are committed to making unique products that
enhance happiness and have no negative effects on humans or the planet.
Dave also talks about fatherhood and cherishes his new relationship with
his sons.
Pablo Yano, a creative director and photographer, believes that encounters and experiences are vital resources for his creative mind. He spent his young adulthood in London at an advertising agency and came to Japan 22 years ago with his boss. Engaging himself constantly in a variety of activities: fitness, cooking, photography, animation, and 3D avatar creations, Pablo stays true to his boss' advice that "the creative mind never sleeps."
Justin Kilgannon is a pilot who works with Aircraft Management, specializing in commercial flights for individuals and companies. He flies Gulfstreams for his clients, and in his spare time, he does jiu-jitsu, competing in tournaments. Justin took his first flight at age 17 and has since completed aviation studies at a Part 141 school. He built a strong foundation as a pilot by starting as a flight instructor. We chatted about drones and helicopters, and Justin opened up about working on the mindset necessary for competitions.
The tenacity and passion of an entrepreneur and "the Wine Guy," Eric Dahler, resonates in his mantra, "Where there is a will, there is a way." "Never give up!" Eric and I recorded the episode in the garden of his lovely home on a crisp, perfect autumn morning. Eric left France at age 22 and embarked on an epic backpacking journey through Europe and Asia, eventually leading to Japan. Eric and his wife, Yoko, established Wine Prospérité in 2008. Faithful to their love for wine, Eric continues bringing fine wines to your tables.
Kumiko Saito is passionate about her singing career and is working on releasing an album. Devastated by the tragic loss of her younger sister, Kumiko was consumed by the trauma and, for a while, dropped everything. When she finally found musical inspiration again, it felt like it was coming "from the universe." After college, Kumiko pursued fashion design at Esmod Japon. Her grandfather managed Golden Gessakai, a renowned Akasaka cabaret, in the 1960s and 1970s.
Ginger Griggs has contributed to human resources and recruitment through her two companies, ASC LEADER and EAW, and her involvement with organizations such as the ACCJ and TAC. Ginger’s expertise as an executive coach is characterized by her compassionate approach, rooted in personal experiences of overcoming tragedies and challenges in her own life. Ginger is forthcoming about her first marriage, which led to her advocacy for same-sex marriages in Japan. With her husband of 32 years, Dieter, Ginger has come to terms with her life away from the US and has recently become a homeowner in Japan.
After 46 years of ex-pat life, Gary Lynch returned to his "home," Sydney, Australia, where he now resides. I was fortunate to run into my B&B mate at TAC during his visit, and we had an amazing time reconnecting. Gary’s sense of humor and generosity have a special place in my heart, and it was fun getting some jabs in over lunch! Gary spent his entire career in the pharmaceutical industry, beginning as a pharmacist and moving on to retail and export sales. When we met, he was Head of Asia Pacific at Covance, and his daughters were my students at the I CAN Gymnastics classes.
On vacation in Tokyo, David Priest drops by, and we reminisce about the days at the NIS. In 2006, after the tragic loss of his partner of 25 years, Yoshihiro, David took a leap of faith toward a purposeful future in school administration. In Mombasa, he successfully established the international primary curriculum. After the 2008 election violence in Kenya, David moved to Mumbai and was tasked with overseeing the IB evaluation of an international school. From there, David moved to China and established two schools. In Hong Kong, David opened an international primary school and was the headmaster until the pandemic. David is retired from school administration but remains active as a team leader and consultant for the IB program.
Neil Bevan is back! My riding buddy made a third appearance on the podcast and shared an eye-opening story about his birth mother and Scottish lineage. Neil had a chance to meet her family in London this past summer, along with his wife and daughter. The newly acquired family connection will be nurtured by frequent email exchanges and an all-inclusive gathering soon. Neil has also started accreditation studies for life, personal, and career coaching.
It was refreshing and inspiring to hear life stories from an 18-year-old who graduated with his decision to take a gap year. Yujin Lin attended a prestigious and highly competitive boarding school in England after studying at international schools in Tokyo. He compares the learning environments of Tokyo and London, finding a comfort level where he was raised. Yujin took A-levels in Economics, Mandarin, and Theology/Philosophy (TP). He is a sportsman, a keen soccer player, and entering world competitions in fencing and sports stacking.
The CEO of Randstad India and newly published author of "The E5 Movement," Paul Dupuis, talks about his life and leadership experiences, as well as the key message of his book. As a child, Paul was outgoing and social; his natural proclivity to communicate and connect with people is evident in the personable stories about the "gratitude tour," his first day in Japan on a park bench in Tennohzu, Osaka, the call to action during the fierce Delta variant surge in India, and the trifecta of persuasion to write his book. Paul’s book is a must-read and has also been released as an audiobook narrated by the author.
French cuisine is the world's most prestigious and respected culinary art. André Pachon, owner/chef of Restaurant PACHON and other restaurants, paved the way for thousands of French restaurants, from traditional to nouveau, to proliferate in the Japanese food industry. André started his apprenticeship at age 15 and devoted his life to serving traditional French dishes. Restaurant PACHON is a family business—his sons Patric and Thierry work alongside him. They are preserving the legacy of French cuisine and have gained the ardent patronage of many, including members of the Imperial family and Prime Ministers. André has merited several awards, notably the Legion of Honor from France and for cultural promotion from the Ministry of Culture.
John Emerson and Pauline Denise Sulit have thrived as successful life partners since college through various vocations such as nursing, telemarketing, and education in the Philippines and China. While they were ESL teachers in an international preschool in Shanghai, John and Pauline started to formulate their dream of creating a school. Lighthouse, a haven for neurotypical children, has just opened its doors. The founders, John and Pauline, with the help of Yoko Sato of Lucrea (Episode 138), are committed to making a difference.
An intrapreneur at heart, Paul Beddie has spent over two decades trailblazing through multiple corporations, such as Deloitte and Headstrong, and working in Australia and China. Paul accomplished specific projects in positions created specifically for his expertise. Starting as the only foreigner at Chiyoda Kako Kensetsu, Paul has found a great fit with SAP, the world’s largest ERP company in its field. He is passionate about the sustainable aspect of his responsibilities as the international ambassador of SAP.
Giving back to the community through coaching children and working on joint projects with NBA teams, professional basketball player Dan Weiss is staying active, relevant, and doing what he loves. Naturalized in 1995, Dan committed his professional career to Toyota Tsushoh and put his expertise and training from Santa Clara to good use. Dan comes from a close-knit family and has enjoyed raising his daughter while coaching children. He and his wife have a "good balance," They look forward to finding a passion together as their third act.
As a child, her fascination with astronomy and the infinity of the universe calmed her hyperactive mind. Fara Taraie has built her architectural base on being mindful of the environment and decreasing CO2 emissions and is the creator of Matinno-a platform for sustainable materials and design. Fara is passionate about making a social impact and wants to be on the board of NPOs and animal shelters. She and her husband will welcome a new baby in early October. Congratulations!!
Medication and therapy are not always enough to handle depression. Hatsuki Tagawa shares her struggle with depression during her ten years as a single mom raising a son. She currently works with an NPO as a counselor to help vulnerable and suffering young adults. Hatsuki is a brave and inspiring individual passionate about passing on the greatest love of all - loving yourself.
For the second time, I got to pick the brain of a discerning industry "influencer," Ernest M. Higa. How does Wendy's differentiate itself in the fast food industry? Ernie says that Wendy’s is a "niche" and strives to stay ahead of the curve by embracing automation. Wendy's is currently experimenting with AI to accumulate customer data to create an ecosystem around the customers. Ernie stays involved with various business organizations and advises his younger self: with words of wisdom from an actual mover and shaker of Japan.
Gene Pelc is an invaluable member of the Tokyo ex-pat community and a “legend” whose revolutionary ideas brought profound contributions to the entertainment and pro-wrestling industries. It is an honor to have him on the show to share behind-the-scenes stories about his days as the representative of Marvel Comics in Japan, acquiring the TV rights and becoming the booker for UWFI, and founding Pelc Enterprises. Ted, Gene’s son, also joins us and sheds light on the workings of the wrestling world from his expertise as an editor and color commentator.
The founder of You Me We, an NPO devoted to providing resources and "fishing poles" to children in orphanages, institutions, and foster care, Michael Perry Clemons, opened my eyes to the issues surrounding the increase of children who have suffered abuse, trauma, or abandonment in Japan. His team's efforts are admirable and genuinely speak to the sanctity of life and how educating parents is crucial for children to survive and thrive. Michael also shares stories about his grandfather, mother, banking career, and how You Me We came to be. This is a robust conversation that inspires, hopefully, some self-reflection. IFCA (International Foster Care Association) www.ifcaseattle.org has shared with us two tools: The Permanency Pact Japanese https://acrobat.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:a7b53c59-480e-3933-8c79-07a9fdba96d4 English https://acrobat.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:7fdfa459-4a05-32b8-bf89-93e4ab320e4a
Every day starts with meditation and gratitude for life. Midori Kaneko stays true to her parents' teachings and values the connection with great minds throughout her illustrious career in finance and other industries. Newly appointed as the director of group marketing at Sun Frontier Fudousan, Co. Ltd., Midori spearheads a three-year plan to create a marketing team, the first ever in the company's 24-year history. Besides her jazz singing gigs, Midori is also involved in NPOs and the Temple University board.
Want to educate yourself about the only continent-nation in the world? Adam Cunneen enlightens us about Australia's geography, economy, history, education, and population. His national pride comes through as he passionately speaks of Australia's pursuit of the gold standard and the egalitarian optimism that is a hallmark strength of the nation. Adam has devoted a decade to the push for Victoria to be a significant player in the world of attracting trade. His career arc is exceptional, marked by his "never say never" attitude towards what comes his way.
Tom and Kozue Dunn are a dynamic couple, each pursuing their life passions while maintaining a harmonious marriage. Kozue is invested in helping people find happiness and fulfillment as they search for properties. Tom is in equity sales trading, and the world of finance has sparked a strong interest in childhood. Life in Japan is good for them and gives them joy. As Tom says, "I have a puzzle to solve in Japan with my partner."
Sam Gilbert of Club 360 (episode 169 guest) interviews me on his podcast! I enjoyed going through the questions and having a chance to reflect on my experiences and talk about the origins of the I CAN program. Sam and I also exchanged stories about raising children, teaching children, and keeping them focused and motivated despite the time limitation (ex-pat families stay in Japan on average for 3 to 5 years).
Sam Gilbert, co-founder and owner of Club 360 joins me today and talks about his life experience as well as the makings and future of his successful fitness club. Sam has a background in karate and studied physiotherapy at university. He met Nathan, his business partner (also his brother-in-law), and together they fulfilled their goal of delivering a holistic fitness and wellness service that caters to individual needs.
Terri MacMillan is cherishing life and feeling blessed, having recently overcome a medical condition and is on her way to healing. Terri is a songwriter, singer, writer, and illustrator with a passion for creating art. In the late 1980s, she managed "Pizzicato 5", a Japanese pop-music band, which led to her coming to Japan with the entrepreneurial mindset of bringing cool music and art from abroad. Terri is involved in Apple's business team while maintaining her creative integrity and has several projects in the works.
In this enlightening episode, world-renowned "legend of the synths and keys," Philip Woo, joins me to share his 50+ years of experience in the music business, alongside luminaries like Roy Ayers, Ashford & Simpson, Patti LaBelle, Frankie Beverly, Maze, and other outstanding artists. Philip's stories are brimming with inspirational highlights, from his childhood prodigy days to being a fixture in high school funk bands, including a band that featured teenage Kenny G. At 19, Philip was whisked away by Roy Ayers to the Manhattan funk, soul, and jazz music scene. Philip has resided in Tokyo since the late 1990s and has been writing, recording, and teaching virtuosos such as Harumo Imai ( Ep.#78 https://youtu.be/C8KHzOivldk ).
Few know as many people in this community as Nick Masee, and being in his circle has been a privilege. Nick resides in Malaysia and maintains the ties nurtured in the Tokyo ex-pat community. Starting as a teenager, interning for a local freight forwarding company in Vancouver, Nick established a career in the moving business. Having built a solid portfolio, Nick was recruited to join Asian Tigers and manage the Japan office, where he devoted 22 years. Nick partnered to establish a company that imports consumer products in the health and wellness industry. He is passionate about philanthropic efforts and joined the FCSC, affiliated with the YMCA, contributing to various charities. Nick is the only non-Japanese recipient of the Japan Philanthropy Association award.
After retiring from the US Marine Corps, Colonel Jonathan Christopher Goff, aka Chris, established a consulting firm with his wife and later joined Raytheon. Chris debuted his motorcycle skills on Easy Rider's recent Hokkaido tour 2022! Coming from a proud heritage of faithful service to the Marine Corps (his father and uncle), Chris followed his destiny and attended VMI with a Marine Corps scholarship, graduating as a 2nd Lieutenant. The episode is poignantly rich with Chris’ experience and dedication and details from some of his deployments and operations.
A fellow "Easy-rider," Peter Thomas, joins me today after an exhilarating 5-day tour around Hokkaido. As a teenager, Peter was into sports, bikes, motorcycles, and his band. With an engineering and coding background, Peter found employment in California that suited his skill set until a soccer teammate recruited him to work for Aladdin Systems. When Peter and his wife decided to move to Connecticut to be closer to the family, his wife astutely persuaded Peter to return to school to earn his engineering degree and then work for Pratt & Whitney. Peter loves his extraordinary life in Japan and appreciates the culture that puts "other people first."
Saxophonist/musician Glenn M. Ray came on for the second time, promoting his recently released single "Gets Me Started." It was a pleasure to touch base. Glenn divulges about his music training, life as a musician in Japan, and an awesome experience being recruited to tour and play in several Hyatt hotels, resorts, and clubs throughout Asia.
TELL celebrates its 50th year next year. Executive director Giles Duke came on today and enlightened us about the inner workings of the non-profit organization that provides mental health lifeline and clinic services. Giles was born in Santiago, Chile, and his family moved to Japan for his father's diplomatic posting, where Giles attended the NIS and YIS. Giles returned to Japan during the "bubble" era and worked in various industries using his bilingual skills. At 60, Giles joined TELL, and as COVID times hit, their services became vital to resolving the surge in mental health issues.
Sako Cunneen, a padel enthusiast, is bright and bubbling with laughter as she tells her life story. Leaving Japan at 18 to travel the world, Sako fulfills her goal of experiencing life in the US. After four years of studying English, she returns to Japan and meets her husband, Adam. They move to Australia, his home country, and raise a family. Sako spends most of the week playing padel, and she is passionate about increasing awareness and the padel population in Japan, with the Olympics on the horizon.
Shin and Mimi Yano get along well as siblings, and it seems they have grown to be comfortable and respectful of each other's boundaries. It is a treat to have a sit-down with my former gymnastics students! They are forthcoming about their families (birth and adoption), schooling, hobbies, effects of COVID times, gender and sexuality, and plans. At 19 and 21, Mimi and Shin are taking on their responsibilities as young adults, managing self-discovery and future planning at their pace.
Stephen Murphy, an animation artist/producer, describes himself as an "invisi-kid" in school, always into video games, cartoons, and movies. This sparked a passion for Japanese anime, and Stephen pursued an art degree at university. He applied for teaching opportunities in Japan and finally made it to Japan. After investing eight years in teaching English, Stephen meets Arthell Isom, CEO of the first black-owned animation company, D’ART Shtajio, and has not looked back. Stephen is thriving in anime production, where his heart lies.
Mark Jones, model, and actor, shares how he is self-reflecting and "connecting the dots" about his younger years that shaped his life journey. Recognizing the challenges of his disjointed childhood in foster care, Mark has found creative outlets through music, acting, and being around inspirational people. The conversation was heartfelt, reminding me of the importance of soul-searching to improve life.
Mark Jones, model, and actor, shares how he is self-reflecting and "connecting the dots" about his younger years that shaped his life journey. Recognizing the challenges of his disjointed childhood in foster care, Mark has found creative outlets through music, acting, and being around inspirational people. The conversation was heartfelt, reminding me of the importance of soul-searching to improve life.
Photographer/translator/TV talent Mance Thompson is a 22-year resident of Japan. At a young age, he was drawn to Asian studies, particularly Japanese ones. Several self-generated trips to Japan led to Mance's return for good. He began working closely with the widow of Masayuki Miyata, a renowned Kiri-E artist (Japanese paper-cutting art), while establishing his photography portfolio and his own company, Mance Pro. Coming full circle with the origins of his "Japan-fascination," Mance is writing a book about ninja movies and has an impressive collection of 200 ninja movie posters.
NEXT BIG THING "Working with the Guinness Book of Records and Thomas Tank Engine was the best fun in my life," today's guest Frank Foley reflects with a mirthful gleam in his eyes. Frank moved to Australia from South Ireland at age 14 and attended Griffith University, majoring in modern Asian studies, specializing in Japanese. Frank worked with Hitachi, Harpers Collins, News Corp, and HIIT entertainment. Frank resides in the beautiful city of Kamakura, where he secures a balance between personal and family life and work.
JOURNEYMAN John lives his "good life" in the forests of Chiba, connecting to the cycle of nature through the songs of the uguisu in spring, spotting the Hotaru in the summer, and enjoying the beautiful seasonal foliage. He has been an established speechwriter specializing in gaijin CEOs of Japanese corporations since 2001, upon his return to Japan. John tells stories of his childhood and family in Canada, hitchhiking adventures through the South Pacific and South Asia, and how an idle decision to take a Japanese course at university led to his life and career in Japan.
VISIONARIES Antonio Villasmil, TAC Nihonbashi Service Manager, joins me today to talk about his life experiences. Having found his calling at age 18, Antonio furthered his education in hospitality for the service industry. He worked with several hotel franchises in and outside of Venezuela before bringing his cumulative training and expertise to Japan in 1999. Antonio has been an invaluable member of the TAC service department team for 17 years, his dedication to excellence a stellar inspiration to his colleagues. Antonio and his wife have passed on the spirit of contribution to their children, who founded their philanthropic endeavors.
REUNITED A throwback to the late 1970s, Shannon Gandy (William Shannon Gandy) made me giggle with anecdotes from the ASIJ teaching days. Shannon’s unforgettable stories about his childhood in Memphis, living and working in LA, family ties, and coming to Japan gave me insight into how the 8-year-old student at the ASIJ continued his journey, defining his character. While writing music and researching castle cities in Japan, Shannon is enjoying the good life in Japan and making discoveries every day.
DALE CARNEGIE This comprehensive episode is a true "memoir" with Greg's Story of the Dale Carnegie Institute of Japan. His recount of the past, family lineage, academic achievements, karate mastery, and career path is remarkable, with illustrative stories abound. Childhood in the Australian bush built resilience as Greg worked hard beside his father. In his teens, he became hooked on karate and accomplished an unheard-of ascension (from white to black belt) in 19 months! Karate and learning Japanese drew him to Japan, where Greg assiduously worked towards his Ph.D. During his stint with Austrade, Greg and his partners placed a bid for the Dale Carnegie franchise in Japan (Greg is now the sole owner). Greg views Japan as the best place to age, with its safety, convenience, efficiency, and respectful people.
QUEST My admiration for Kirsten O’Connor and her sensibilities as a professional has been with me since we first met at the BST in 2001. Her love and passion for teaching, planted as a seed at age 7, are the driving force behind Kirsten’s accomplishments and endeavors in her field of expertise. She takes us through her childhood, education in Kent, teaching career, life-changing experiences in the London Borough of Newham, and the eventual journey to Japan. In a well-founded effort to fill the gap in the educational landscape, Kirsten established Quest in 2018, an institution that provides educational support services for families. oconnor@questtokyo.com www.questtokyo.com
MILITARY SERVICE Over the years, Preston Lofton has been a great advocate of my activities, and as humbled as I am, it brings me joy to share the podcasting experience with him as a guest. Originally from Wilmington, North Carolina, Preston served in the USAF for over two decades, and he has been in Japan since retirement. He is an engineer, a cook, and a counselor to his fellow airmen by trade. Preston is an avid golfer and has a deep appreciation for Japan.
PHOTOGRAPHY Legendary photographer Benjamin Lee graciously shares his experiences in this art form. Benjamin has studied in Canada and traveled through Europe before settling in London to work with global advertising agencies. In 1987, Benjamin arrived in Japan with an introduction from Sir Hugh Casson to Nobutaka Shikanai of the Fuji Sankei group. Benjamin has captured many celebrities, including architect Kenzo Tange and artist Yayoi Kusama. His photographs, capturing the essence of his models, are captivating and reflect his imagination, freedom of expression, and charming personality. Benjamin aspires to continue his involvement in photographic projects. https://www.patreon.com/lelpodcast
SHARE Eager to leave home, New Zealand, at age 15, Terrie Lloyd started working as an electrical technician and saved enough funds to travel to Australia. He travels to the US, Canada, and Europe, sometimes hitchhiking and fixing TVs when in need of funds! Over the decades in Japan, hardships and challenges did not mire Terrie, who currently runs four companies and is heavily involved in several others and spearheading various projects. Terrie has developed a back story for Satoshi Nakamoto, the bitcoin inventor, and plans to create a community novel along with other writers.
EXERCISE? Travis and Kaori Tani Johnson return to speak more about their roles at Kinetikos Lab, acting more as "guides" for their clients instead of technicians. Both agree that the key is to interact with mindful conversations, asking questions that delve into the core of the individual. This builds trust and a coachable mindset for an effective training program.
5:55-CLUBHOUSE Dylan Monaghan is enjoying his good life in Japan; he has the freedom to do what he wants on his own terms. Dylan credits the extraordinary education in White Plains, NY for shaping his destiny and is a successful engineer, pilot, and linguist. He served in the USAF for 20 years and gained experience that the civilian world does not offer. Check out Dylan’s radio show, 5:55-Clubhouse, an on-demand app you can go download now!
3 X ZERO Raised in Tokyo's ex-pat community until age 10, significant acclimation was necessary when his family relocated to Stuttgart, Germany. At school, his mixed ethnicity drew the attention of the bullies, and he toughened up quickly. SINCE HE STARTED FREELANCING HIS TRANSLATION SERVICES IN GERMANY, George P. Hansen has been in the automotive industry and has devoted 26 years to GM. He is in charge of the strategic partnership between GM and Honda for the path to "zero-zero-zero." George is excited about changing times and transitioning to an emission-free, autonomous vehicular future.
CHARITABLE As a teenager, Blanka became financially independent as a model and a dancer, touring countries in Europe. Blanka Kobayashi partners with her husband, Kingsley, and works alongside him, managing and taking care of marketing for their companies around the world. Blanka is on the board of the English Educational Center for Children in Africa and seeks to empower children towards financial freedom. She is also active in charities and continues to spread the love.
TENORISSIMO His magnificent voice elevated me when I saw him perform, bringing me to tears. Tenor John Ken Nuzzo is celebrated by classical enthusiasts worldwide and here in Japan for his numerous operatic achievements and brilliant performances. A graduate of St. Mary's International School, John studied at Chapman University under the acclaimed Patrick Goeser. John speaks of his music studies and how classical music is about "breathing" while sprinkling melodious renditions of classical and operatic phrases. When John achieved the high C, Patrick assured him that he was ready for the journey as an operatic performer. www.jkn-tenorissimo.com
EVERY TEN His father's military career took the family through numerous relocations inside and outside the continental US. Before enrolling at Columbia University for graduate studies, Jim Mori took a volunteer services job at a minimum-security prison, an eye-opening experience. Jim has invested 50 years in the banking sector here and has first-hand knowledge of the financial landscape in Japan during the bubble and all the way to the Lehman shock. Astutely claiming that the country's markets, industries, and even its people undergo dramatic changes every ten years, Jim believes that the key is to be here long enough to experience the evolution and hopefully reap the benefits.
LISTEN A believer in "lifetime learning," Joe Peters followed his father's teachings and took up sales as a career. After his service in the U.S. Army (Army Security Agency), Joe sold insurance for several international insurance companies in Asia. He involved himself in businesses and various projects. Joe runs a recruitment company, I Search Worldwide K.K., and BoomerangIt, the "world's lost and found solution." In this episode, Joe sheds light on the evolution of the recruitment industry in Japan, where resistance to change is the underlying sentiment.
MEDIA TRANSFORMATION Curious about the transformation period of media entertainment? John Flanagan of A+E Networks Japan sits down to chat about the current trends in terrestrial channels and pay-TV. The analysis of how the upsurge of streaming platforms is forcing networks to "think outside the box" to increase revenue and what A+E has accomplished during the pandemic is fascinating! John came to Japan with the JET program and worked as a reporter for the Japan Times. He returned in 1995 with a business degree to work in the media industry.
ILLUMINATION AND CREATION Yoko Sato, director of Lucrea Inc., visits with stories of her childhood in Hyogo and Chiba, her studies abroad, and acquiring the certification for her career as a speech and language therapist. As a teenager, Yoko became proactive in finding her path and ventured outside Japan to study and hone her skills in business and psychotherapy. The years spent studying in Canada were impactful, and the experiences are at the core of her passion for pursuing the dream of becoming a therapist.
CULTURE SHIFTING Celebrating a milestone of 40 years in Japan, Sale Atisanoe, aka Konishiki, left his home at age 18 and traveled to the other side of the planet into the highly regimented sumo world. Sale proudly remarks that he is from four cultures and worlds: Samoan, American, Japanese, and Sumo. His feat as a foreign "rikishi" who flew up the ranks, breaking records and making a legacy, is astounding and attributed to the strict teachings of his beloved dad. By watching a true "leader" protect the family with compassion, spiritual guidance, and devotion, Konishiki drew the strength and will to succeed as a champion in the "dohyo" and life. The answer to his parents' prayers, Sale continues to thrive and imparts his wisdom: "accept the moments we have (in life) and learn to work with them."
FIXER John Durkin served on the TAC executive committee with me, and it was nice to get a glimpse of his life experiences. When John was admitted to the Navy ROTC on a full scholarship with a stipend, it was a significant first step towards a career path in business and finance. His expertise in handling situations during crises was a blessing to prominent corporations, such as Nike Japan, J-phone (Vodafone), Nikko Cordial Financial Group, and Citibank. John played a key role as CFO in Japan's biggest M&A deal with Softbank in 2006. After a brief hiatus in Singapore, John came out of "decompression" and joined a private equity firm.
BLESSING IN DISGUISE Latonya Whitaker of Soul Food House returns, and her genuine laughter and invaluable messages leave me satiated once again! Latonya touches on life’s challenges and overcoming them with the support of the community, family, and friends. She preaches the value of every experience in life, living with appreciation and being genuine and honest with who you are. Therein lies the key to the blessings that come your way.
BEING People will come into your path on life's journey, and some will leave footprints that have an incredible effect. "Success is where hard work meets opportunity," his mentor at the Meyerhoff Scholars Program at UMBC used to say, and Mayowa Balogan proudly declares that he is not afraid to put in the work towards his goals. At age 7, Mayowa realized a love of music and science. His passion for music is evident, and the episode closes with a beautiful rendition of his vocal stylings.
ENLIGHTENED SOUL The reflection of his life weaves through his childhood in Ventura, CA, in a close-knit family, his marriage and subsequent 12-step recovery program, his passion for the musical theater, film school, and his path to spirituality. David N. Weiss is a director and screenwriter who came to Japan for a movie project directing an animated family adventure film. He is an enlightened soul, conscious of the miracles of goodness in life and practicing the daily rituals of gratitude, service, and "being present."
JIFF BRAINCHILD Maybe it’s the child in me connecting with the child in him, but talking with Mike always strikes a familiar chord. Radio host and filmmaker Mike Rogers returns! The episode is a stream of consciousness, touching on world events, indie music, film festivals, and the Japanese film industry. His life journey smacks of a true maverick, and the stories are eye-opening and humorous. As a vocal proponent of independent musicians and filmmakers, Mike shares his recent projects, including the New Year’s Party and Ninja Indies Music Award on May 18th and a Hollywood remake of his movie. Stephen David Brooks will direct with Linda Perry as music director. In its fifth year, Mike’s brainchild, JIFF (Japan Indies Film Festival), is a genuine appreciation of the indie filmmakers of the world and a testament to the founder’s integrity and compassion. JIFF: https://filmfreeway.com/JapanIndiesFilmfestival Meet the Pumps: https://deadline.com/2021/10/meet-the-pumps-stephen-david-brooks-and-linda-perry-partner-on-punk-pic-1234851700/ Mike Rogers Show: https://www.mikerogersshow.com/ Schemers: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fc58OD3tQfo
NOVELIST Thomas Ran Garver, a lawyer, martial artist, and novelist, debuts with his thriller "WAYS TO DIE IN TOKYO" on April 7th, and it is my great pleasure and honor to interview him on the podcast! Tom and I go back to the early 2000s, when his two sons, Kai and Eigen, both attended the I CAN Gymnastics program. He practices corporate law, and he shares his childhood, adolescent years immersed in martial arts, and how he met his wife. Seeing a longtime friend accomplish such an amazing life goal is inspiring, and the budding novelist's beaming smile fills me with pride.
BRAVO, ENCORE In 9th grade, Greg found his safe place on the stage, entertaining people, and he carried the dream of becoming an actor on Broadway with him in his travels to Hawaii and eventually to Japan. Greg Irwin recounts his life experiences as a singer, voice actor, and brilliant MC. With a firm background in music and theater, Greg has translated and released over 100 songs in the Japanese Doh-yoh genre. His dream of standing on stage in NYC came true as he performed the Doh-yoh at the Lincoln Center. In these troubling times, Greg wants to impart the gift of beautiful melody and lyrics of traditional Japanese "gentle music."
EMPATHY My free-spirited and generous friend, Deepu Sadhwani, came to Japan when he was a newborn and was raised in Kobe. He attended a Catholic boys’ international school and talked fondly of immersing himself in sports. After studying at Boston University, Deepu started his career path, which at first was entwined with the family textile company, but eventually started his own garment business, successfully operating in Sri Lanka, Maldives, Singapore, and Vietnam. Deepu is a philanthropist at heart and devotes his time to helping his community and the less fortunate.
CLARITY His remark about the podcast being a good opportunity to show the human side of who we know is apropos and my 20-year acquaintance/neighbor/fellow TAC member became much more familiar. An insurance man from the core, Paul Atkinson has navigated through multiple companies before taking the current position with Swiss Re. Fresh out of university, Paul takes a position with a London-based insurance company that sends him to the Bahamas. Paul shares stories about his experience there as a minority, changing his mindset about people and cultivating invaluable relationships.
NOT A DESK JOB The face of BST Shibuya campus and the administrative facilitator that helps the school run smoothly, Masami Gonzalez has an impressive suite of interpersonal skills and communication etiquette that make her an excellent receptionist. Masami is a Nikkei (of Japanese descent) Peruvian and started her life as a returnee in Japan when she was a teenager. Masami shares her challenges acclimating to Japanese society, her fond memories of Seisen University, and her stint as a flight attendant for Iberia and Varig Airlines. Masami believes that she serves to connect people daily, and it gives her joy to bring happiness to those who come into her path.
IN THAT BOX The rich tone and deep gravitas of "Kamasami Kong," the renowned disc jockey/radio show host, brings back fond memories of the 70s and 80s music scenes! Robert Zix was a budding broadcaster of his radio station at age 14 and pursued his passion through university and into the US Army, where he became a broadcast specialist. After his military service, Robert made his mark in Honolulu with the number one radio station. Kamasami Kong's radio shows in Tokyo, Osaka, Taipei, and Honolulu were viral, and throughout his career, Robert befriended many celebrities. With two new projects in the works, Kamasami Kong's journey continues to flourish and bring joy to those who hear his voice.
1% CHANCE Our guest extraordinaire is Rick Roberts, lightweight boxing champion in Japan, a 22-time defender who, at 36 years old, fought for the World Championship! Rick aspired to be a boxer at age six and started training at 12. He became pro at 18 years old with a debut fight at Madison Square Garden. Rick joined the US Air Force, and his first assignment was Misawa, Japan, which fulfilled another of his childhood dreams to come to Japan. After moving to Yokota AF base, Rick started training as a lightweight and fought professionally, overcoming a shoulder injury. He now owns and runs a boxing gym in Fussa, training five pros with a great training team and the World Championship on the horizon! Webpage: ringsidefitnessgym.com
Email: Ringsidefitnessgym@gmail.com.
Facebook: Rick Yoshimura’s Ringside Fitness Gym
STRONGER TOGETHER Kinetikos Lab owners Travis and Kaori Johnson share invaluable life stories and experiences. Kaori, whom I have known since she was a fitness trainer at TAC, is from Matsuyama, and she is forthright about her bout with anorexia as a teenager. Travis is a martial artist (karate) and has a Ph.D. from Tokyo University. When their paths crossed, it was a perfect match, and their teamwork has led to the success of Kinetikos, a multifunctional fitness, and training facility with Rolfing and TRX.
IS THIS REASONABLE A high-energy power couple, Matthew and Anne Kyle, met me for a fun early bird recording! Anne has been in Japan since she was 19 and is a passionate traveler. She founded Arigato Japan (now Arigato Travel) along with her husband, Matthew, to share the best of Japan with the world. Matthew studied economics and Japanese at Yale and played collegiate and professional basketball. Matthew and Anne are now channeling their skills into parenting two children and building "Team Kyle."
CLOSE ENCOUNTER Being ready and open to new encounters has its perks. I had the pleasure of getting to know Jabbar Pettaway, a US Navy veteran and a marine electrical technician who travels the world. Jabbar has a degree in electrical engineering and is a specialized aviation electrician. He is a plane crash survivor and is candid about sharing the harrowing experience. In his spare time, Jabbar enjoys renovating properties for sale.
GREAT ADVICE With Valentine's Day around the corner, this couple's episode felt very appropriate. Eric Edmunds and his lovely wife Misa sat with me, and we had great stories and laughs! When Eric took up classical piano at age 7, he started his musical career path and graduated with this major in Michigan. As Eric's passion became overridden by his dream to live abroad and learn a foreign language, it seemed that the road to Japan had materialized. Eric has successfully established his career in HR with global conglomerates and has a beautiful family. This dynamic of bicultural, bilingual, mixed-heritage children with an American education has taught him a lot about identity. Eric and Misa have made Japan their home with their children, Rae and Allen - one of my favorite families of all time!
SAMURAI LINEAGE We can be acquainted with someone for decades and still know very little about them. Miki Ohyama, former TAC Women’s Group staff and now a dedicated TAC member, shares her life story. Her involvement with the TAC Connections (former Women’s Group) has been outstanding, and she is an acclaimed socialite in our community. Miki descends from a samurai lineage, and her grandmother raised her to be an independent and proper lady. She is passionate about building a steadier bridge between the Japanese and the international community.
ENDING BULLYING A father with an admirable mission to stop bullying in Japan, and author Kinota Braithwaite, talks about his upbringing in Canada and the challenges he faced as a black Canadian in a white community. Kinota has published three books that address the issues of bullying in Japan, the acclimation of Japanese returnee children, and the challenges of biracial children in the Japanese community. His books are available in paperback as well as digitally. Kinota will be speaking at the TAC in February, and he hopes to spread the word by inspiring others to join the cause.
BEING RESPONSIBLE Bringing in 2022 for the podcast with my buddy Neil Bevan, a third-time guest, was naturally a fantastic choice!! Neil shares what’s on his mind: canvassing universities with his daughter, how his recruiting business fares during COVID, an in-depth analysis of the Japanese way of life, and other incisive observations about people, culture, as well as generational differences, and parenthood. Neil’s views generated from the years invested in Japan are respectful and pertinent. Many points resonated with me, and it was a stimulating discussion.I look forward to the Neil Bevan 4.0 episode!
CHOOSE Around 5 am every morning, I would spot him in the rearview mirror as I sat in my car, first in line to enter the TAC building. Douglas Shumway, a fellow early bird with morning routines, and I had a friendly sit down. It was charming and eye-opening to learn more about him, his family, career path, interests, faith, and life in Japan. Douglas has spent 30 years in Tokyo and is contemplating relocating to Utah, where his family has an affinity.
LOOKING FORWARD The assistant dean at the Temple University Japan campus, William Swinton, sits with me today and talks about his multifaceted career path. After undergraduate studies at Stanford University, William lived in New York, building his resume. He also spent a year in Africa, which was a transformative experience in self-discovery. Swinton came to Japan in 1995 and has never looked back. He developed the Interdisciplinary program in the business education department at Temple to develop integrated thinkers that can build new business models.
CLEAR FOCUS Motocross, a life passion that he took up as a child and pursued to semi-pro level as a teenager, has taught an invaluable lesson to Darren Morrish. In October 2021, Darren became the TAC General Manager. He has stepped up and taken control of many career opportunities with a clear focus while keeping the momentum. Born and raised in Australia, Darren is a chef by trade and pivoted to hospitality in his late teens. He believes that there is "no city in the world like Tokyo" and is very comfortable here. Focus-oriented by nature, Darren wants to drive his staff team to bring back the community spirit and social aspect of the TAC as we move forward in COVID times.
POSITIVITY "The future is bright for Japan," says Charles Jack, the General Manager at the Westin Hotel in Ebisu since 2015, as he confirmed his confidence in Japan's recovery and rebuilding from the pandemic. Born and raised in Tasmania, Charles stepped into the hospitality industry in his gap year. He rode the wave and has been committed to the Sheraton Western group for his entire career. Charles and his diligent team stuck it through safely during COVID without any closures to preserve the hotel's community and social aspects. Well done!!
FINDING A WAY Ron Reid is passionate about empowering others through his services to the community as an actor, lecturer, and teacher. Born and raised in Toronto, Ron grew up fast and, with the help of strong mentors, became self-sufficient at a young age, starting businesses as well as working in sales. He is newly married and shares an unconventional story of their courtship. Ron and his wife are churchgoers and have found their connection to God and the church community to be their cornerstone. Ron regularly contributes his time to an outreach program for the homeless, and he has inspired a group of volunteers to join him every weekend.
SPECIAL THANKS I had no idea how much I would come to enjoy and appreciate podcasting when I decided to channel my interest in getting to know people through this art form, or journalism per se. I am truly grateful and honored to have hosted many people who graciously offered their time to tell unique stories. In the past year of creating authentic content and connecting people, I have learned a lot about myself (so therapeutic!) and feel blessed to share precious moments of inspiration and catharsis with all the wonderful guests. Thank you to all the guests, the viewers, and supporters for being a part of this journey. To be continued!
IT COMES NATURALLY Don’t let the bohemian lattice of long dreadlocks fool you - David Gichangi Axelson has an impressive background in the sciences with a degree from Uppsala University of Sweden in engineering physics with an emphasis in space electronics. His post-graduate career choices were unique, from designing software for satellites and highway weigh scales to now working in the heart of the financial industry in Japan, providing IT and business skills to bridge the gap between the financial sector and government. David is a fellow motorcyclist who has taken tours in Honshu and Hokkaido.
READ LOUD Mansour Diagne was gracious to stop by before his business trips to Qatar and Kenya. He is from Senegal and is multilingual, with Wolof, French, Arabic, English, and Japanese under his belt. Mansour comes from a line of devout Muslims, his grandfather being a Hafiz, and it gave me goosebumps to hear him recite a verse from the Quran and translate it into English! He shared a revelation about Islam that few people know. Mansour’s journey in Japan is inspiring: from tutoring Arabic and French to African diplomats in Tokyo, working in the TV production industry, to getting involved with solar energy. His efforts have been a fulcrum in bringing clean energy (solar) to African countries.
NEW BEGINNINGS Today's guest, Richard Hawkins from Osaka. Podcasting has connected me with interesting people, and each episode is a rare discovery. Richardis a loyal podcast fan who agreed to this impromptu episode, and his 20 years in Japan are indeed a whirlwind of exciting encounters and events. Our paths have nearly crossed several times; he was a training manager at TAC in the early 1990s! Richard started a tour guiding business and thrived until COVID shut it down. He is giving back by helping others and is embarking on a philanthropic endeavor: a facility to provide meals for latchkey children in his neighborhood.
MOVEMENT EVOLUTION The meditative flow of the conversation was like taking a scenic hike through nature and enjoying different talking points. Established and well known in our community as the yoga ambassador, Michael Glenn shares insights of his "unplanned life" and the journey to yoga, where he realizes daily that life has no stopping points. Michael is a writer and, through his copywriting business, publishes articles. He enjoys riding his bicycle and frequently tours out to neighboring prefectures, stopping to go on hikes. I am intrigued by his understanding of the body and mind, the confluence from which the basis of yogic teaching arises. Michael says that yoga is a big world; with multiple facets, such as spiritual, philosophical, physical practice, and therapeutic. His clients often come with specific issues, and he designs practices that address them because yoga has a quality of inducing relaxation. "A body under stress can’t heal," says Michael, and with this in mind, his yoga journey is taking another turn towards pranayama (meditation).
MEDIA PASSION Born and raised in Toledo, Spain, Jesus Perezagua had a strong foundation that helped him soar when his career began with Bandai Europe. He immersed himself in media-related operations, bringing Japanese animation to the European markets. Fox Kids then recruited Jesus in Spain as the GM, where he learned the TV operations in just six months. He grew a sustainable business, an ecosystem with local processes that benefited everyone. When his high-powered corporate life became ripe for a change, Jesus came to Japan to disconnect and create businesses in an advisory role. Jesus continues to enjoy life, always "moving with the wind," and his next chapter, a newly founded company, is about to be unveiled in January 2022.
THE HOT SEAT William Hall, a former I CAN student, sat with me, and it was terrific to chat with the successful businessman while my mind flashed back to a 6-year-old doing back handsprings with my support. William grew up in Tokyo in a bi-cultural, English-speaking, ex-pat community like his ASIJ cohorts. William says that he was impressed from a young age to "learn how to think for himself," which he took to heart in his educational and career endeavors. After working for several companies and honing his people skills, he found his passion for executive recruitment and is running his own company.
UNITY THROUGH MUSIC Edward Harris joins me today and shares enlightening stories. He is a proud US Navy veteran of 26 years, a father of two sons, and a man on a mission to help others succeed. Ed is a security specialist and a firm believer in paying it forward. As a Navy recruiter, he witnessed many of his recruits flourish in their life goals. His passion is music, and as a DJ, he is using this powerful "tool" in a positive way to bring people together, ethnicity, culture, and language aside.
LIFESTYLE ENHANCEMENT In pursuit of "creating experiences with people," Tom Kriegshauser has followed his passion for wine since college. Tom is currently importing wines to many APEC countries, and his extensive knowledge of wineries and wines and his superior expertise on the business side are impressive. Tom did his undergraduate studies in business management and then went to Adelaide to acquire an MBA in wine. In Australia, he initiated himself by working for a distributor of E. & J. Gallo Winery and continued to work with multiple importers. "Wine country is the most beautiful country," Tom says, hoping to resume his travels soon. He is also involved with eatdrinkgolf.com, contributing articles on beverages and restaurants. Besides the online stores, many retailers carry his wines, including TAC, so give them a try!
HIPS NEWS Currently running two kitchens: an organic vegan bento box take-out cafe and TUSK in Roppongi Hills, Darius Harbin is establishing his culinary stylings as a "jack of all trades," from breakfast to gourmet meals. Darius has been in Japan since 1988 and is a military veteran, having served in the US Navy aboard the USS Midway. He has started a podcast with his cousin and produces content that brings awareness to societal issues. It was great to reconnect with Darius and to get to know him better!
THE MOMENT The esteemed Higa family was such a significant part of my life in Japan. I am very excited and honored to have Howard Higa as my guest over FaceTime from Honolulu, Hawaii. Howard was born in Wahiawa on Oahu, and when he was 12, his family moved to Japan, where he attended the ASIJ. He went to college in Missouri and then served in the US Navy as a public affairs officer during the Vietnam War aboard the USS Iwo Jima. Although he wanted to pursue a career in folk music, Howard chose to study business in college. Amidst his studies, Howard successfully ran his first company selling stone lanterns. His aspirations led him to the importing/trading business specializing in fur coats and golf gear to candies and macadamia nuts. Among the vast array of companies, Howard shares how he established Honolulu Cellular, one of the first mobile carriers in the US. He is also well known in Hawaii as the owner of The Cab, the biggest taxi company. The Cab provided for many immigrant families, and their children thrived in successful careers. Howard recently had an epiphany while on a TV show and realized his life's purpose; his AH-HA moment. We are all driven towards financial success, but what is it all for? Paying it forward by assisting people in getting their life dreams: at age 78, Howard is finally coming to terms with this blessed calling, or as his Japanese mentor put it, "ikigai."
CLOSE SISTERS The first in-house guests, Tisha and Allysha Yamaguchi sat with me for a chat. The young and aspiring sisters have been an invaluable part of the I CAN family, and it is a great pleasure to teach the classes with them!
The HOST In commemoration of 100 episodes of the podcast, I hope you enjoy the interview with Dan Smith of Backstage Pass! Some say that my experience in Japan was a unique undertaking, and as I reminisce over the nearly half-century of my adult life here, it fills my heart with gratitude for all the blessings.
LOVE AT SECOND SIGHT Talking to Jim and Gerri was a lovely stroll down memory lane; it's almost like we hold each other's histories in the ex-pat community as our children grew up together. After years apart, our paths would cross, but it always felt natural and like "good old times" with Jim and Gerri. Gerri was born and raised in Tokyo. She shares her family history and how she grew up in a single-parent family. Jim was born in Japan, but he moved around in the US because his father was in the US military. They met at Sophia University and have been together for nearly half a century. Jim and Gerri are both fully bicultural and bilingual - a combination that is a rare commodity and an asset in their industry. Jim has established himself in the video/film industry and currently runs his production along with Gerri. Gerri is a renowned bilingual voiceover talent for TV, movies, and commercials; her NHK show "Eigo de Asobou" became a national phenomenon and a pioneer in English-incorporated educational television shows. The dynamic couple share milestones and continue to create valuable content through the media medium's evolution (e.g., apps like Hungry Caterpillar).
MIZ SALLY'S SON "Music comes from the sounds around you," says Rambling Steve Gardner, blues musician, and photojournalist, as he enlightens us about the aspects of blues music. Steve considers the blues to be the "mother of music" in the United States, giving birth to genres such as jazz, country, and bluegrass. It is the essence of putting the living experience into the beats. Growing up among a family of "storytellers" with an appreciation for music and dancing, Steve was drawn to it; first, a guitar that he self-taught to play left-handed, and then a harmonica in high school. After university, Steve pursued photojournalism, and his stories about covering significant world events are fascinating. He is a natural storyteller, so sit back and enjoy the lively details worthy of a documentary. Steve is channeling his musical talents into workshops for the younger Japanese generation. Being his best self on the worst day is genuinely a Steve-ism. Thank you for sharing your stories, Rambling Steve! Email: ramblingstevegardner@gmail.com Homepage: www.ramblingsteve.info
GAMER DREAMS One of our valued TAC Recreation staff, Kentaro Abe, is a gaming enthusiast, and he enlightened me on the attraction of some of his favorite games; Valorant, Call of Duty, and Among Us. He came to Japan after graduating from university with a psychology degree. During the pandemic, Kentaro kept ties virtually with his friends back in the Philippines through gaming. He aims high and aspires to become a part of an e-sports team!
TRANSFORMING THOUGHTS A life coach and fellow podcaster, Tiffany Rossdale, sat down with me to share intriguing life stories: her trials and tribulations growing up in the Philippines with gender identity issues and overcoming those challenges through religion and self-reflection. Tiffany feels blessed to be in Japan and contributing to the betterment of the LGBTQ+ community here. We talk about childhood trauma, healing by forgiveness, and life in Japan versus the US. With her unique gifts and experiences, Tiffany is on a mission to promote awareness in the community to advocate more life/career options for her trans sisters and brothers. Tiffany's programs: https://www.tiffanyrossdale.com https://bit.ly/3vIVzhE https://www.tiffanyrossdale.com/podcast
A SUCCESSFUL "MODERN" WOMAN Fumie Iwasa has accomplished it all: marriage, motherhood, career, and business ownership, and she joins me for an inspiring episode. Fumie is versed in several industries; advertising, real estate, technology, and many interests, from culinary delights, art, music, fine wines to golf, skiing, and traveling. Fumie spent her early childhood in Europe and was among the first returnees acclimated to the Japanese system, but having a grandfather who founded the Fuji Bank and was a pillar of Japan's economy, cushioned the transition. Fumie was educated among the elites of society, and after graduating from Gakushuin University, she joined Hakuhodo in the wake of Japan's Employment Parity Law. She runs a resourcing agency, Crosswise, and is passionate about connecting people/companies to business matches.
FAMILY BOND The early bird episode with the dynamite couple Kirk and Agnes Ouellette was such a refreshing way to start my day! They were high school sweethearts and became close as swim teammates. Agnes has a background in architecture, and Kirk is in engineering. The conversation flowed, and we talked about aging, parenting, marriage, life in Japan, and friendships. Kirk and Agnes feel like the essence of marriage, and their connection is inspirational. They both love their life in Japan of over ten years and appreciate the consistency and base level of respect. Agnes shares a truth that she heard from a TAC member when she first arrived - as an ex-pat, you lose some things when you leave your country, but you gain the incredible gift of family bonding as a unit.
NO DAY IS THE SAME AS THE PREVIOUS DAY Today's guest Wolfgang Bierer has this inclination to challenge himself, from age 14, he was essentially self-made and financially independent. Wolfgang stepped foot in Niigata as a lifeguard with an exchange program between Germany and Japan. From a social referral, he secured an internship with Hitachi and Wolfgang returned to Japan while studying for a master's degree in electrical engineering. The experience in Japan with the degree was a plus in getting multiple job offers in Germany. Still, Wolfgang chose Hitachi Software Japan, where he was a unit manager of the international department. After several years, he pivoted to consulting, acquiring his company Endeavor SBC, now thriving for 16 years. Besides providing process optimization services to corporations, Wolfgang also delved into retail management, and he has been running various fashion and sports apparel stores throughout Japan.
STONE-COLD Bulent Uner has been in Japan since 1992, and we have known each other since we met at the New Sanno hotel. Bulent is a security guard with the “toughest” stone-cold look that commands respect, and we have developed a camaraderie over the years. He talked candidly about his family, childhood, military service, including security for a three-star general, and experiences in Japan. Having fulfilled his dream of buying a home for his family in Turkey, Bulent leads a happy, healthy life and plans to retire in the Philippines with his wife.
MICHIGAN LOVE After his morning swim workout at TAC, Scott Smalley sat down with me to share exciting stories about his experience in Japan. Scott first came to Japan in 1986 with a unique exchange program set up by a professor of Lansing Community College (Michigan) and an executive in Kansai. Along with other students, Scott worked on the sternwheeler “Michigan” in Lake Biwa. This 10-month internship was the impetus to bring Scott back to work in Japan with a logistics company. He has been in the industry for 30 years and is the Managing Director at DSV. Scott and his wife Marie plan to stay in Tokyo for several more years until retirement, at which time they may base their “second life” in Hawaii.
ENLIGHTENED It was my great pleasure getting to know Haruno Akiyama, who is admirably attuned to her body and mind through her daily regimen of fitness training at TAC and practicing the piano, which is profoundly spiritual and her “conversation with God.” Haruno started playing at six years old, and after graduating from university, her music was enjoyed by audiences at the New Otani hotel and through TV appearances. Last year Haruno became involved with Craft 21, an organization aiming to help preserve Japanese craftsmanship and introduce the Japanese cultural arts to the world.
ADVENTUROUS Masa is a third-generation Tokyoite, and over the years of our friendship, I have admired his solemn temperament and hard-working demeanor. He runs the B/X at the New Sanno hotel as well as at the Hardy barracks. Masa got married just before COVID and is a proud father of a 2-year old son with another on the way. As a young adult, Masa loved to travel and visited 20 countries. So it was a natural decision to work in an English-speaking environment, and Masa continues to use his exemplary expertise to support the US military/ex-pat communities.
BALANCE Bringing back fond memories and full of great vibes, this zoom episode was a therapeutic one. Brett Taylor and I met at TAC in 1999, where he was a fitness trainer. Fresh out of his hometown Melbourne, Australia, young Brett was ready to take on the world. We connected instantly and established a friendship/mentorship. He reminded me of myself, landing in Japan without any support system and starting from scratch. After four years in Tokyo, Brett ventured out to other Asian markets, searching for a place to begin his gym. Brett shares how he started his business in Thailand, making his mark in the industry, building a clientele of Olympic-level athletes and celebrities. There is a special appearance of his lovely wife and son Axel! Brett is evolving into the best version of himself by focusing on “balance and consistency” while building his legacy.
GOOD HEART The artisanal backdrop of his impressive Persian carpet collection added a special touch to this episode. Mehrdad Mehrabi invited me to his showroom. We indulged in a conversation about his life and family in Tehran, how he came to Japan, establishing his business, and life values. Like myself, Mehrdad has spent his entire adult life in Japan, overcoming challenges, honing his skills, and keeping focus. Mehrdad has several businesses alongside the retail of Persian carpets, and the niche market caters to a very selective clientele. However, the 34 years of forging his path have brought invaluable rewards - a wonderful family, great friendships, and the luxury of enjoying life.
ORIGINAL Established in the heart of Tokyo, TAC prides a vibrant Japanese membership, and among them is Hiroshi Kojima. Hiroshi has been a long-standing member since the early 1980s and has served on the board. Born and raised in Tokyo, he is the original “Edo-ite.” So it was fun going down memory lane, talking about our shared neighborhood of Musashinodai and Mitaka! A graduate of ICU, Hiroshi has navigated through various specialties - retail and chain store management, hotels and hospitality, licensing and product development, and M&A. He is a consultant now. He shares his views about blockchain, which he believes is the contract form of the future.
SILENCE TAC’s entrusted concierge and yoga instructor, Luiz Olímpio, stopped by, and we enjoyed an enlightening conversation about his life, interests, and philosophy. Luiz is a Mormon with a solid background in Buddhism. From the age of 12, Luiz learned to recite Buddhist teachings and the art of meditation - to “sit, meditate, and elevate oneself to a higher level of consciousness.” He talks about his trip to India for the yoga instructor license and experiences ten days of silence (vipassana meditation). Luiz is mindful and self-reflective; I would have never known this side of him had it not been for this episode…!
LIFE’S NOURISHMENT A much-anticipated guest Paul Savarese sat down with me, and it was worth the wait…! Five years at the helm of the New Sanno Hotel as the general manager Paul is making a difference, and I am one of their attested loyal patrons. Born in New Jersey and raised in the “Philly suburbs,” Paul had a well-rounded childhood enjoying sports, outdoor recreation, and family gatherings. Where the family came together, there was always good food and heartfelt conversation. Paul leans into his love for food, travel, and hospitality and pursues hotel and restaurant management in college. The F&B internship positions at the US Naval facilities open doors, and Paul swiftly ascends to various placements worldwide. He has ambitions for the private sector; however, the passion for the New Sanno is resolute. The episode was both comprehensive and eye-opening. Not only a source of comfort, but good food has also always been at the core for Paul - nourishment of the soul and enrichment for a gifted life.
HIS DOUBLE Today’s guest is a new acquaintance at TAC, and we enjoyed getting to know each other. Brandon Moro has been in Japan for 20 years and recently joined the TAC community with his family of four. Born and raised in Sacramento, CA, he has a background in computer science. Problem-solving is his forte, and the current position as Director of IT at Asurion has been a great fit. Brandon and his family are embracing their experience at TAC - an oasis for the ex-pat community.
INSIGHTFUL BEING Every encounter is meant to be and enlightening for its reason. I sense that with today’s guest Yena Apithy. He has thrived as an investment banker specializing in risk management and auditing in this part of the world for several years, Tokyo being his favorite. Japan has provided Yena with opportunities, and he has grown professionally. His maturity and the 360degree view of life allow him to embrace his destiny by letting things unfold as they would/should, without struggling, but gracefully with gratitude. Yena closes the episode with his version of the “miracle of nature” and the uniqueness of every individual.
TREMENDOUS FORTITUDE True to his philosophy, Gudni and Eiko Gudnason are together creating a “movie” that they star in, featuring their great essences of spiritual wellness and happiness. They were such gracious hosts, and their regal home ambiance added an ethereal dimension to the episode. Gudni is candid about his life story: his Icelandic upbringing and roots, passion for the literary world and physics, artistic and dance background, award-winning poetry, martial arts mastery, and international business acumen running five companies. Eiko, a Sophia University graduate, has established her jewelry and clothing brand. She also teaches courses that reflect her philosophy about the beauty of the body and soul. Recently, they have faced Gudni’s health issue, but I sense that the dynamic couple is handling it with grace and grit.
MIRROR IMAGE Danny Howard 2.0! Danny returns to the show, and we enjoyed a more in-depth conversation this time. His words are sincere, and his positive energy/outlook is comfortable and reassuring. Danny shares stories about his life: a diverse, multi-racial environment in Clarksville, Tennessee where he grew up, grad school in Nevada where he got a TA position in the ESL department, traveling to Japan (first time outside of the USA), landing a job with NIC International College; now 23 years in and he is a director of the institution. Danny has nothing but love for life in Japan - it is safe, consistent, and gives him peace of mind.
SIMPLE DON'T SPEAK For a graduate of the University of Texas (Austin) with a Japanese degree and minor in math, it seemed logical to pursue a career path in Japan. Ed Thompson has been in Japan for 25 years and is thriving as a business owner and teaching at Temple University. His specialty is in advertising and project management: the years of experience in project management during Japan’s internet era/bubble have served him well in developing his own company. Ed realized that the consistent element is “people” in the fast-changing digital industry, so he started programs and instruction online through his web academy. Ed’s advice to those who want to succeed in Japan - ASK for whatever you need; there’s always a way to get to your final goal.
PITCH PERFECT My sax teacher and good friend Harumo Imai joins me today for a podcast/mini jam session! Harumo started playing the alto sax with her junior high school band at age 13. From 3 years old, she played the “electone” (electric organ) and loved to play funk, big band, jazz, soul fusion numbers. Harumo prefers the more robust sound of the tenor sax and has been playing a Selmer Mark 6, arguably the most expensive and best sax in the world. During Covid, Harumo’s live performances are restricted, but she has continued her music activity, creating and recording some originals at home. www.harumoimai.com and harumoimai@gmail.com
DO IT RIGHT It was my privilege and great pleasure to record this episode as a tribute to Masa’s late father, who raised his son to “experience the world.” Honoring his wishes and eagerness to begin his journey Masahiro Miki traveled to the US alone in his junior year at Sophia University. Masa worked as a ranch hand in Kansas and took one year to hitchhike all over North America into South America, Canada, and Hawaii. Masa finished his master’s degree at the University of Arizona and landed a job with Monsanto for three years, and then was hired by Texas Instruments, where he worked for twenty years. Those years of hard work, business travel, building a network became the foundation to Masa’s vigor and positive outlook in life. His core spirit radiates whenever I see him, and it’s a gift that keeps on giving!
CAN-DO SPIRIT Carolina Yamamoto and I met ten years ago at the New Sanno Hotel. It took a bit of convincing, but she graciously agreed to come to the podcast. Carolina left the Philippines to go to Japan as a newlywed. She took a job at the New Sanno hotel three years later and has worked there for almost three decades. Carolina likes to read, write, watch movies, do karaoke, and shopping. Recently she resolved to lose weight and has successfully reached her goal weight through fasting, cleansing, and quantity control. Fun times with Carolina, sharing a lot of laughs, and getting to know her more…!
DELVING INTO HISTORY Drew Damron is a dedicated staff at the TAC Library with a passion for genealogy and history, stopping by to talk about his career as a librarian and his attraction to the field. Drew feels a sense of gratitude and existential connection when delving into history, finding fascination in discovering the “layers” of things, places, people. Also working tirelessly as the TAC historian, Drew is compiling a valuable archive of its origins. The state of libraries in the world is evolving, supporting the community with its resources and instilling the value of discovering histories/stories as nourishment for the soul.
KUNG FU / JAPAN Coming from a colloquial naval town in England with a significant maritime history, Antony Cundy has inherited the strict work ethic of its lineage. Along with the discipline of martial arts, he has thrived in his career. Antony has spent 26 years in Japan and his corporate track record in advertising and marketing communications is impressive, with global conglomerates as clients: Phillips, Lexus, McDonald's, VW, to name a few. In the business of meeting people, honing his perceptivity has been empowering. Antony is on "gardening" leave now but is excited to start the next phase of his journey in September! Through the years he has pursued a passion and a way of life; martial arts.
MUSIC IN THE AIR Our paths have crossed on countless occasions through the decades, the most surreal being at the VIP party for Michael Jackson, where she sang in the back chorus. From “Music City” Nashville, Paula Johnson is here today. She shares fascinating stories about her career - singing for different bands in the US and Asia, her gospel choir “True Spirit,” music productions, and vocal coaching. Her exceptional vocal stylings bring comfort and joy by “telling stories” through music. Paula has worked with amazing artists and musicians in Japan, and she continues to touch people’s hearts as a minister of music. You can contact Paula at paula2704@hotmail.com
FASCINATED WITH JAPAN Every so often, I meet a select category of ex-pats whose understanding of the Japanese culture, history, and people is extensive and in-depth that their experience here becomes more profound. Eric Hamilton majored in Japanese at UC Davis, so in a couple of months of Japanese immersion, all the dots began to connect, and his language ability took off. We shared our takes about the unique qualities of Japan and how this society works. Some only scratch the surface of the Japan experience as an ex-pat because there is no significant downside to being the “outsider” here. By ingratiating himself to Japan, a whole new world opened for Eric, and the benefits abound as he continues the journey. TenTen https://mytenten.co.jp
A FRIEND INDEED It was a privilege to have special agent Bill Beattie come in today to share his stories of the 40 years with the USAF, choosing the military police as a career field, recruitment into the OSI, and some firsthand details about the investigative and protective services. In addition, Bill divulges the inner workings of the AFOSI (Air Force Office of Special Investigation) and his present office, where he acts as liaison to the Japanese police, self-defense force, and intelligence. Having invested his entire adult life in the AF, Bill has found value in never missing the opportunity to get to know people. Bill extended his expertise and assisted me in an emergency personally, and I am genuinely grateful for his friendship.
INVINCIBLE OR SOMETHING The martial arts world captured his heart at a young age, and karate has since been a way of life. Black-belt Robert Daoust came to Tokyo for the world tournament when he was 20, and he stayed behind solo to explore the city, visit the dojos and the temples. Robert returned several years later and used his carpentry skills to build homes in the Kanto and Chubu regions. After acquiring the credentials in Canada, Robert applied for a personal fitness trainer position at TAC. From 2005 he has been a dedicated staff and has built a solid clientele. Robert established Tokugen Dojo and continues to involve himself in the training and fitness industry, working through the challenges of the new normal. TOKUGEN DOJO http://tokugendojo.com FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063188112537 INSTAGRAM @tokugendojo
BELIEF Angelo grew up in the heart of Brooklyn, hustling to survive and support his mother and siblings. At age 20, Angelo made his way to Japan with very little means. The Roppongi nightlife offers some financial buffer until he transitions to teaching English. Angelo is a fearless self-starter with dreams of becoming a rapper/entertainer. He runs his English school now while self-producing music and entertainment videos. Angelo is a true survivor and he is indeed reaching for the stars! Link to Angelo's NEW VIDEO COMING SOON!!
RESILIENT LOVE Another power couple Jasmine and Julian Dioulo, joins us in this episode, aglow with love and respect for each other, brimming with hope and excitement for their journey. Julian served in the US military and is a security specialist who has had multiple overseas positions. He is of Liberian descent and touches on the fascinating history of Liberia. Jasmine, a graduate of Howard University and a journalist, channels her media talents into her YouTube channel about the birth world. They tell us how they met and nurtured a long-distance relationship successfully to marriage. The stars aligned for Jasmine and Julian - the adventure is just beginning for the family of four, and Japan is providing a safe, comfortable foundation. More information about Jasmine's online activities: YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCAUQybmjnfgoLei0TzPkElA Ig: @lovealwaysjas_ @peacefulpromisedoula Blog: www.lovealwaysjas.com Pregnancy/Birth Support: www.peacefulpromisebirth.com
BEYOND BELIEF It has been 17 years since I interviewed Jane on “Success in Japan.” In this episode, she touches on the origins of Yamano Beauty College and how her grandmother, with the support of her husband, fulfilled her dream to educate women to become the ambassadors of beauty and spread smiles across the globe. Jane Aiko Yamano is now at the helm, ensuring that the great Aiko Yamano’s legacy is as secure and strong as ever.
KEEP ON RYZING In July 2021, William Delorme launched his executive search company, Ryze Consulting K.K. As the name implies, he, along with his partners, aims to “help people and companies GO UP.” He has a passion for history, which was one of his majors in university: the favorite being WWII, the most published and photographed period. William came to Japan 20 years ago and has never looked back. In one of the “safest, friendliest places in the world,” he has built relationships, a beautiful family, and now a business. William recognizes that the people make this country so unique, and he is bullish on Japan; it remains “unbeatable” whatever comes its way. https://ryze-recruit.com/belief/
INSPIRED A battleship captain in the novel "Winds of War" made a lasting impression on high schooler Robert Moss and deeply moved by the romanticized version of the US Navy, he applied to the Naval Academy at age 16. Although he ended up enlisting, Robert qualified for an ROTC scholarship at UCLA. By the time he graduated university, his battleship dream had waned, and he shifted his interest to aviation. Robert tells us about training to fly helicopters, his positions as Naval Attaché, heading the aviation archives at the Naval History and Heritage Command and working in the civilian sector for various companies specializing in his niche specialty. Robert retired from the US Navy seven years ago, and staying in Japan was a leap of faith, but he is loving life and the community here. It is Robert's most extended place of residence, and he considers it his "home."
GRATEFUL Both Dequan and Dejah Clark committed to serving in the US Navy at age 18 and have completed rigorous training and are disciplined to have respect: treating others with dignity and offering selfless service by putting the country’s welfare over their own. Dequan is retired after eight years of service as a dental care provider, and Dejah is currently serving as a medical provider. They are radiant with an aura of receptivity and gratitude - it makes me proud to know them!
TOO BLESSED FUN and bittersweet podcast with one of my favorite power couples, the Smyths, Peter, and Lin one day before they left Japan for their next chapter in Toronto, Canada…! They have navigated the ex-pat life in Tokyo with grace and gratitude, creating a beautiful family and forming lasting relationships. Peter’s analogy about the life of a foreigner in Japan to a play and how to use the “superpower” as a foreigner if/when you go “off script” is the best description I have heard. I will miss Lin and Peter and their three sons, Nate, Liam, Jake - wishing them all the best in Canada, and may our paths cross again soon!!
FIT BODY STRONG MIND By the time he graduated university in England, Andy had traveled abroad on internships, and his mind was ripe for discovering the world beyond. Andy Morgan applied for a teaching job in Japan and came to Osaka. He was hired at a local high school, and as a side business, Andy launched websites that posted high-quality articles on fitness coaching. Rippedbody.com took off, and Andy transitioned from teaching. Over ten years, Andy has accumulated a multitude of followers and clients. To plug into an exclusive network of people, Andy joined TAC immediately upon arriving in Tokyo. He continues to utilize the club for business, social, and motivational purposes. Andy is a British fitness author and online coach living in Tokyo, Japan. These are his websites RippedBody.com and AthleteBody.jp, which is now widely recognized as Japan's most credible fitness website. Why Andy doesn’t have female clients - https://rippedbody.com/female-clients/
SOCIAL CONSTRUCTS Chuk Besher, the executive producer of the documentary “Ainu: my voice” and a 48-year TAC member, joins me to discuss some mind-bending topics, opening the episode with a remark that “ethnicity and race are social constructs.” Born in Japan to Orthodox Russian parents, Chuk identifies as Japanese. He talks about being raised in Kobe, labeled the gaijin in the Japanese elementary school, and learning to defend himself against bullies. We discuss how Japan as we know it was created and is there such a thing as “looking Japanese?” The essence of humanity may be rooted in realizing that we are all of mixed heritage and our reverence for life.
POWER BREATHE A 35-year resident of Japan, Dan Stakoe is fluent in the language and versed in the cultural nuances and mannerisms, and has found a good fit as a natural workaholic in the Japanese lifestyle. Dan always wanted to become an independent business owner and has been running his company for 21 years. He showed me some of the innovative products that help improve fitness and wellness. He has a sailboat and wants to take more time to enjoy life.
LEAN NOT MEAN It takes discipline to age gracefully and look “lean & mean” - Martin F. Fluck, an avid squash player, makes it seem effortless! He is channeling his energy and skills as the General Manager of operations at Global Tree House; a membership community focused on making better leaders using innovation tools. Born in Japan, Martin spent his childhood in Kobe and then moved to his home country Switzerland. His family made a stop in Hong Kong, where 10-year old Martin was amazed by the Peninsula hotel. Martin’s desire to pursue the hospitality business was sealed, and as he began his journey, the doors kept opening for him around the world. The website for Global Treehouse is: www.globaltreehouse.com
NO SUCH THING My guest today is Tony Cala, the general manager of ten years at the Tokyo American Club. Back in 2012, as president, hiring him was one of my best memories and successes. Tony was born in Tokyo and, in his infancy, relocated to the US and back to Yokota, Japan, due to his father’s change of stations with the USAF. Tony attended the St. Mary’s International School along with the other military children, and after graduating, he continued his studies in California. In his junior year, Tony was offered a job at the Pacific Stars and Stripes Yokota AF base bureau. From there, his career enmeshed in the US military began and lasted for over three decades. His directorial positions in the recreational department at the Tama Hills and the Yokota AF base came with a wide range of responsibilities from rebuilding and engineering, F&B, lodging, to MWR (morale, welfare, and recreation). Tony shared the stories behind the evacuation of the US personnel and preparation for the US civilian exodus during 3/11. I had to also ask about the legend of the “St. Mary’s mafia,” and Tony reconfirmed the bond of the brotherhood :)
BRAND YOUR PASSION Alok Rakyan is a loyal friend whose unwavering support through my years in the TAC leadership will always be cherished. He runs a jewelry business, carrying on a 400-year family legacy in India. Alok came to Japan 30 years ago to work for his uncle who was entrusted by his grandfather to expand the diamond business out of India. Eight years of tutelage later Alok goes independent specializing in diamond and precious stones. His company has since remodeled to producing custom-designed jewelry and Alok’s brand is making its mark in the industry. He gave a special shout-out to my son Lewis - “Let your passion drive you!”
UNDERWATER Emerging from retirement, Allan Smith enjoys a brief workweek practicing government relations law and interacting with people, especially during the pre-Covid travels in Asia. He first came to Japan in 1972 and worked as a Morman missionary in Kyushu, Hiroshima, and Okinawa. After passing the bar in the US, Allan returned to Japan with the Fulbright program, and he started to practice corporate and securities law. Allan likes to scuba dive, and although he has had a few hairy incidents, the underwater world remains an inviting escape. It was nice catching up with Allan…!
FIGHTING FOR JAPAN After a delectable organic Italian lunch at his restaurant, I sit with the owner Elio Orsara who shares his life story with the flair and passion of a Calabrian free spirit. At age 14, Elio decides to pursue the restaurant business. His solo journey out of Italy through Europe and finally to the USA becomes on-the-job training for young Elio. A few years later, he returns to Como, Italy, where an encounter with the Daiei group owner leads to a restaurant supervisor position in Kobe, Japan. After a successful three-year run, Elio ventures to open his first restaurant in Tokyo, where he systematically begins business expansion into manufacturing and catering. In 2011 Elio was faced with challenging times due to the big earthquake. However, he decided to give back by donating food and service to the people of Rikuzen Takada. The selfless act rewarded Elio with a burst of energy. He proceeded to open factories of Italian cheese and salami in Hokkaido. The next plan is to produce an organic farm of imported Italian vegetables by employing young people. His love for Japan runs deep, and Elio is here to fight for Japan!
HANG LOOSE With the backdrop of the lush greenery and the azure Pacific Ocean in the distance, I sat attentive (and appreciative) in the home of the octogenarian storyteller Gregory Clark. A man of many trades, he abides by “hanging loose” in life because “one thing always leads to another.” Life as an Australian diplomat in China and Russia led to journalism, then teaching in Japan, writing books about the tribal theory of the Japanese, TV appearances, lecture circuit, and involvement with opening Akita International University. Gregory enjoys the countryside and owns substantial property in the Boso peninsula, Chiba, where he has built rental homes. His witty remarks entwined in the acute observations of various subjects made this “loose” summer midday a blessed delight.
ENGINEERING HUMANS When an encounter reaches a level of familiarity evoked by similar wavelengths, it is truly rewarding. Cedric Grand’pierre shared his life stories and the strides he has made in his career by working with people resonated with me. Raised in an immigrant family of Haitian descent, Cedric’s academic path was clearly defined and purposeful. The private schools he attended opened his eyes to a multicultural environment and instilled a sense of worldliness. His career choices with startup companies were training grounds that taught him accountability and to think ahead. Cedric is finding success as a transformation strategist and consultant for companies. Having clients worldwide, his understanding of human behaviors stemming from cultural differences is one of the tools that Cedric uses to guide businesses to reach their goals.
SILENCE IS GOLDEN In life’s journey, the people who enter your path and with whom you connect are the blessing. I met Frank Packard years ago through teaching his daughter, and we have cherished a friendship over the decades through our ups and downs. He joins me today and shares stories about his upbringing, the powerful brotherhood of the St. Mary’s International School alumni group, the evolution of the economic environment in Tokyo since the 1980s bubble time. Frank also divulges a few stories of his father and his wife’s career as an education consultant. As we both enter the “silver years” in Japan, I agree with Frank about how this country will fare post-covid and onward.
QUIET FLAME Joining me today is Chuck Johnson, a Taekwondo national champion, who teaches classes at TAC and also runs two businesses, Strong Body Japan and Quiet Flame Productions. Our time was limited, but we covered various topics - his family and childhood, coming to Japan, his thoughts on effective human communication, and what he sees for himself in 10 years.
OPEN-ENDED FLOW I am happy to reconnect with today’s guest filmmaker Darryl Wharton Rigby after being cast on his music video “Entrepreneur” last year. The conversation flows and I notice his scriptwriting sensibilities come alive as the story unfolds, comprehensive and rich with intricate details. His childhood raised by a single mother, the impressionable years when he wanted to become a doctor, how the library was his “safe place” where he nourished his eager mind, how he took all the film making elective courses at Ithaca College while majoring in history, how booking a single production assistant job led to many more with renowned directors like Penny Marshall, Robert Townsend as well as a TV show “Homicide”, making his first Indie film “Detention”, the next film project “Polaris”, etc. We are keeping this conversation open-ended as I hope there will be more to follow….!!
18 YEARS IS A GREAT PLATFORM Jordan Smith is an adventurist/storyteller, and he shares some fascinating life experiences. Young Jordan had his share of partying but always kept up with his studies. After university, Jordan takes a summer teaching job in Seoul, Korea, leading to a full-time Korean university position. Jordan meets the woman-of-his-dreams (his wife), and their relationship quickly escalated. They decide to move to Tokyo, where Jordan immerses himself in Japanese with graduate school at UCLA, waiting in a year. Eight years later, with a Ph.D. in comparative literature, Jordan stepped smoothly onto the tenure track when another luck leads his family of four back to Tokyo for a professorship. Jordan also opens up about his sobriety - how he overcame his anxiety and found new energy, a natural “high” on life, which propelled him on the trajectory to success.
WHAT DOESN'T KILL YOU, ONLY MAKES YOU STRONGER Overcoming hardships in life build character. Today’s guest Javier Watanabe was born and raised in Lima, Peru, where conditions were challenging throughout his childhood. He pursued soccer with a passion until he left for the US at age 16. When his sister, who worked in the Peruvian Embassy, urged him to come to Japan, it was easy. Javier took up Shodokan karate embracing its discipline and deep respect for the Japanese culture. Thirty years later, Javier runs several businesses in Tokyo and plans to expand into other countries. His father instilled strong values - Javier recognizes that the essential things in life are family and the quality of life.
GOOD FOOD, LAUGHS, AND A MISSION One week into the 14-day self-quarantine, I am feeling satisfied having accomplished the main goal of helping my mother clean, de-clutter, and re-organize her house. This episode is a recap of the “pandemic travel” experience and my activities in San Bernardino with my mother and my sister Valerie. The trip was purposeful and went smoothly with very minor bumps. Getting things done around her house was cathartic for me…hopefully for my mother as well.
IN SAN BERNARDINO, CALIFORNIA Fully vaccinated and with the lifting of the Covid restrictions, I visit my mother in CA. My sister Valerie joins me from Kansas and the three of us chat in my mother’s kitchen after a day of deep cleaning around the house. Feeling accomplished, but pretty exhausted…
BRAINY FOR SURE Like-minded people find each other wherever they happen to be. Julius and Houston met in Japan and have nurtured a friendship for 20 years. Their paths in the U.S. were quite different. Still, when they crossed halfway across the globe, the Wall Street financial wizard/lawyer Julius and ex-Navy IBM business/technical expert Houston founded a unique collaboration. Julius’ life goals generate from his passion for solving “puzzles” - the issues behind the struggles. Houston realizes that critical thinking is paramount - how one applies the information needed in a balanced analysis of issues. Wow, I enjoyed how the conversation flowed…Julius and Houston will be repeat guests, for sure!
AFRICAN WAX FABRIC WITH A GLOW Enterprising and outgoing fashion designer/owner of Reina de Santiago, Jo Lorez Odunsi is my guest in this “from the backseat of my car” episode. Born in England to Nigerian parents and educated in the western world, Jo adheres to her roots apparent through the innovative blend of African Wax fabric with contemporary fabric in her clothing line. Jo came to Japan in January 2020 and imparted her challenges when Japan plunged into Covid restrictions. She aspires to learn the Japanese language and visit museums once we return to normalcy. Her husband and her two children are enjoying their residency in Tokyo with the comforts of an ex-pat oasis, TAC.
FOR THE LOVE OF GOLF With a calm and pleasant demeanor, Dean R. Rogers is stereotypically the image of a successful entrepreneur/businessman. Dean divulged some of his strategies and business tools that helped put him on the trajectory for financial stability. He attended UCLA, majoring in Japanese with a minor in international business. Coming from a sport-oriented family, Dean was exposed to many competitive sports. Among these was golf, which got him “hooked” immediately and a tool Dean used to build his portfolios as a budding stockbroker and develop a network of investors for his businesses. He even met his mentor, a young CEO of an investment firm who hired him and opened doors in his career path. It is fascinating to hear stories about the opportunities life presents us - live your dreams!
HOME OF LOVE Johnnie and Reina Collins invited me to their beautiful home to record the very first “COUPLE’S” episode!! I met Reina when she started working at TAC in 2011 and later with her husband, Johnnie. They had just tied the knot in Seattle after six years of dating and working together in the hotel industry. Johnnie and Reina share similar values and have a deep understanding of each other attributed to their unique upbringing and close-knit families. We talk about parenting in an interracial, multicultural environment as well as their plans. Johnnie and Reina have passions of their own - Johnnie in the creative arts and Reina in her involvement with children. What a dynamic couple and fantastic parents to Jack and Joe!
MADE A CRUCIAL DECISION With 49 years of experience as a stockbroker under his belt, Trevor Brewster is spending his “second life” on the squash courts, and once the Covid restrictions lift, traveling to visit family and friends. As veteran TAC members, we have seen and greeted each other for decades, but this is the first time sitting down with Trevor. Straight out of high school, Trevor started working in a brokerage firm at age 16. He had an aptitude for math, commerce, and accounting from an early age, and due to his physical disabilities, an office job was the practical career option. Trevor advanced quickly in the financial arena, making his mark at reputable firms such as Nikko Securities, Bank of America, UBS, Lehman Brothers, Barclays Capital, Mizuho Bank, and Jefferies. Born and raised in Essex, England, Trevor has an affinity for the rural country. Still, Tokyo is a beautiful city, and he has enjoyed living here, raising a family, and pursuing his career.
LAWYERS IN THE HOUSE I had known Regina Clark Salathe for 20 years, having taught her three children from toddlers, and recently 19-year-old Bella, their oldest, interviewed me on zoom. Over the years, I have even become acquainted with her family in the US! Regina and her husband Greg came to Japan in the late 1990s, both wanting a break from their hectic lives as lawyers in NYC and also having a desire to live in this part of the world. Japan captured Regina’s heart immediately, and her appreciation and love for the country are evident - the Salathe family is back in Japan for the third time! Currently, Regina is active with Democrats Abroad Japan and Asian University for Women - channeling her expertise in politics and education. Like myself, she is a “Japanophile” and has no plans on leaving this country that continues to impress.
SAILS PAST HIS TOHDAI EDUCATION Bloom Hearing K.K. CEO Takayuki Maeji is a maverick at heart. A graduate of Tokyo University (“Harvard U.” of Japan), Taka charged forward, paving his path unencumbered by the stereotypical elite careers. Taka held various positions at Club Med worldwide, which led to favorable job opportunities when he returned to Japan. He then attended INSEAD Business School in France, an intelligent decision preparing him for the prominent positions at Club Med Japan and Pacific Golf Management. For the past nine years, Taka has run Bloom, a hearing aid company with 97 stores throughout Japan specializing in high-tech Danish and German products. I know the Maeji family very well having taught his two children and they all share an outgoing, positive attitude. Taka is an avid all-around sportsman, seafarer, and drummer. Maybe a jam session (drums & sax) is in sight for the two of us…?!
CARE IS A STRONG WORD Sometimes, the shifting of perspective is so remarkable that it comes full circle to reinforce your beliefs about life, business, and relationships. A true New Yorker with roots in the Bronx. Cairo Kenan Marsh came to Japan 12 years ago and started a marketing consultancy 6 years later. His company "relativ*" is a promising star of the marketing consultant industry. Cairo values authenticity and has built an impressive team that earnestly serves its clients with care, personal responsibility, and excellence. Keep watching until the end for an exclusive tour of his office in Tokyo's premium residential area! https://www.relativ.com/
MAKING PARTNER IS A DREAM FOR MANY Highly accomplished and versatile, Samuel Gordon has navigated through the financial and accounting sectors while establishing his roots in Japan. Now a partner at his accounting firm, Samuel tells us how his multiracial family background, studies in political economy, and an interest in Japan’s post-war economic ascent surpassing the other non-Western countries nurtured his existential connection to Japan, where he considers “home” for the foreseeable future. Samuel experienced the Lehman shock from Lehman’s London office. He attributes the vast network of ex-colleagues dispersed into other companies as a silver lining to the financial turmoil. As a father of two boys, Samuel also shares his thoughts on parenting and how he and his wife complement each other in raising their sons and creating a foundation. I am so proud to know Samuel. He represents the best of the exceptional community of successful expatriates in Tokyo.
WHAT DOESN'T KILL YOU ONLY MAKES YOU STRONGER Raised in New Caledonia, where the Japanese coined the “Island closest to Heaven,” Laurent Bernut came here as an exchange student with a passion for karate. Being a US-CPA, he was hired locally and learned tax accounting in Japanese, which was on-the-job training and language immersion bundled into one. Laurent is now a multilingual business owner involved in real estate and is currently completing a book about algorithmic short selling in Python (soon to be published). He is an avid kite surfer and has a strong interest in “inner work” and spiritual workouts! What an empowering conversation that echoes my beliefs that our thoughts create our future.
WIFE, MOM, ANIMAL ADVOCATE, EDUCATOR, BOOKWORM, BEACH ENTHUSIAST, AND SHOPPER! Heidi’s sense of style, grace, confidence, and appreciation of life is crystal clear as I sat in her elegantly furnished home and conducted the podcast. A seven-year resident of Tokyo, Heidi Regent has made a mark in the ex-pat community as the President of the TAC Connections, contributing to enrich the experiences of many ex-pats in “a home away from home”. As she shared her thoughts on being a wife, a mother, a teacher, and various interests, I am inspired by the acute self-awareness. I am reminded of the vital essences to building character - a strong family background, education, fruitful career, and embracing life’s learning experiences.
HUNGRY AND STILL VERY YOUNG AT HEART. After breakfast, TAC Recreation staff Shui and Miyu came on the podcast to talk about their background, friendship, view of life and work, Covid times, finances, and plans. Chatting with them was refreshing and enlightening - everyone we get to know is indeed our “teachers”; age difference is not an object! Shui and Miyu even had questions for me, and I had the chance to talk about some of my favorite subjects like living in Japan, the philosophy of making money, and metaphysics. We ended on an energetic note, with thoughts on making the most out of these extraordinary times…!
WITH A GENIUS FATHER AND HARD-WORKING MOTHER, IRA'S PATH WAS FORGED!!! The time flew by as I sat captivated - our guest was forthright about his upbringing, his trade as an engineer, his love for Japan, and high-tech information. Ira Bolden is living his childhood dream, staying true to his professional motto to “always be on the cutting edge.” I respect him, not just as a fellow ex-pat and businessperson, but as a man who also comes from “strong roots,” and the foundation has been the cornerstone to his success. Ira was strongly influenced by his father, a scientist, engineer, and metallurgist, and being raised by his hard-working mother, Ira had to grow up quickly. It’s incredible to hear firsthand how the high-tech digital industry boomed in Japan, and Ira with his team played a crucial role in its fruition.
GOLF IS NOT A GAME OF PERFECT; IT'S A GAME OF MISSES Our esteemed golf coach at the TAC joins me for this episode. Tom Fielding and I met ten years ago when the TAC was situated in Takanawa during our new club's construction. Tom's career in golf began at age 20 when he toured professionally; however, he transferred to coaching due to an injury. Tom shares some golfing anecdotes, teaching techniques, pros of using a golf simulator, coaching during the Covid times - if you're not a golfer already, this could spark an interest! Tom's philosophy about golf is inspiring, and I feel that it resonates with how he views life. As Tom puts in a phrase from a book, "Golf is not a game of perfect; it's a game of misses."
FELL IN LOVE WITH JAPAN BECAUSE OF A "TEACUP SET". Caiya is not only a gracious host (we recorded in her home) but a vibrant and pure conversationalist, as evident in today’s episode. At age 6, Caiya made a life decision to travel to Japan, and her dream became valid through her illustrious career as an international runway, high-fashion model for the renowned Ford Agency in NYC. As soon as she landed in Japan, Caiya’s rise in modeling and TV stardom was both stunningly swift and electric. Enjoy her fantastic stories about the modeling world, flourishing as the first foreigner in the renowned Ohta Talent Productions, being an author of several bestsellers, and even a 2-year stint in pro-wrestling...! Her beloved companion Stone, an African grey parrot, blessed us with a special appearance at the end :)
MOVIES ARE MADE FROM STORIES LIKE FRANK'S Today’s guest, to me, is a perfect example of someone personable, easy-going, and non-assuming, and yet after a sit-down, you have the “you would never know” moment. Frank Clark III is a retired colonel of the US Army a graduate of West Point and his fascinating stories about the 26.5 years of service are truly remarkable. Post-military Frank has been involved in investments, starting a business, and currently works for Janes, a 123-year old company specializing in aerospace defense and security data. What a great episode, both inspiring and educational!
ME AND NEIL ON ANOTHER ONE OF OUR JOURNEYS An episode of two gleeful riders on a brief tour in Chiba Boso peninsula! Neil and I enjoyed another early morning trip out to our favorite destination - it was sublime against the panoramic backdrop of mountains, fields, ocean.
A TOUR YOU WILL WANT TO SEE IN PERSON On a perfect day blessed with the warm temperature and blue skies, I headed to Nihonbashi where Tokyo American Club recently opened its first satellite club. Nestled among the office buildings, shopping mall, a five-star hotel Tokyo American Club Nihonbashi boasts a luxurious blend of western-Japanese cultural taste in its esthetics. One of my favorite TAC staff and an esteemed leader of the opening team Antonio Villasmil (F&B Director) gave me a special tour of the club, another milestone of TAC’s 93-year history. His thorough knowledge of the facility, its interior, and architectural design is impressive and as always Antonio shows a passion and devotion that makes me proud. Enjoy this tour and make sure to visit in person soon...!
BRINGING IT TOGETHER, RIKE AT THE MIKE Meet “Rike at the mike” a fellow veteran TAC member and a Tokyo resident/businessman - it took me back to the days when I first joined TAC started my businesses and developed an enduring connection to Japan...! Rike Wootten shares his career experiences in Japan, his involvement with the newly-opened TAC affiliate club in Nihonbashi, and some current business endeavors. Rike and I share many views about living in Japan, the value of having the TAC membership, tips on successfully conducting business in Japan by embracing the asset of being a “foreigner” who has a profound respect for this country. Sit down and soak it all in! You can email Rike at rike@gotairiku.com
MADE FOR THE CHALLENGE Salvatore Salvino spends some time with me today sharing his life stories. He started as a firefighter, spent 10 years as a U.S. Marine, and invested many years moving through the corporate world with grace and agility. Salvatore studied psychology in university and he preaches the importance of understanding yourself in order to understand others and to approach life with compassion and empathy. What a precious concept, especially in these challenging times during the pandemic. Hope you find comfort and inspiration, as I did...! Click on the link below: https://www.facebook.com/855300153/videos/10164253476245154/ Thank you for listening if you haven’t done so already please subscribe and click like. As I believe it’s all on loan so keep reaching for the stars 🌟
BLOCKCHAIN KING What a great conversation with a like-minded entrepreneur/businessman Kingsley Kobayashi! Kingsley, a 30-year resident of Tokyo, is originally from Nigeria. He shares his life and business experiences - we both agree that doing business in Japan has been fulfilling because there is a clear-cut system enabling people to succeed. Kingsley is also very metaphysical and believes that aligning with the Universe is the secret to success. I feel that I have found a repeat guest - enjoy this inspiring episode! Thank you for listening if you haven’t done so already please subscribe and click like. As I believe it’s all on loan so keep reaching for the stars 🌟
YES YOU CAN WITH A LITTLE HELP I have the pleasure of having Christa Wallington as a guest - a motivational speaker, thespian, cooking instructor, and an active member of the TAC Connections. Born and raised in Austria, Christa has resided in several countries before arriving in Japan. During the pandemic, Christa produced a 3-part video series where she lectures about overcoming the new normal challenges: focusing on staying in touch with people and the importance of clean living, health, and wellness. Christa Wallington | Facebook www.facebook.com › Christa.Wallington Thank you for listening. If you haven’t done so already, please subscribe and click like. As I believe it’s all on loan, so keep reaching for the stars. 🌟
PLAYS SAX AND SINGS Today’s episode is a very special treat for me - Glenn M. Ray visited to give me some sax tips! A professional saxophonist and singer, Glenn is a longtime resident of Tokyo with an international touring background. Glenn started playing the saxophone at age 14 and after decades of playing in several bands as well as releasing original CDs, he is currently working on some music videos. His passion for music is evident and I encourage all of you to check out his sax and vocal stylings. Glenn M. Ray email: graysax@me.com Thank you for listening if you haven’t done so already please subscribe and click like. As I believe it’s all on loan so keep reaching for the stars 🌟
I have known Pete Juds for 30 years since he came to Japan, and he is one of those remarkable individuals who, after our encounter, I was to cross paths with from time to time and also hear about his successes indirectly from the community. I am so pleased to have him as a guest today and to hear his unique stories about his background (born and raised in South Africa), travels, career (teaching the Montessori method), family, and some of his future plans. I have always admired Pete, and his free-minded way of taking on life’s challenges and enjoying the journey is encouraging and inspiring.
Today’s episode features Tony Evans, co-founder and senior partner of FGC Group. Well-known for his involvement with the Fight Club, Tony (an avid boxing fan) talks about the inception, its features, and the charitable aspects of the event. With a firm background in finance and law, Tony landed in Tokyo 16 years ago and has thrived as an entrepreneur with a passion for charity. He shares his views on how the pandemic has influenced the world of business. This was a thought-provoking conversation: one that I definitely want to continue!!
What a great pleasure having Akio Katsuragi, founder/owner of Crosspoint Advisors, Inc., join me in a well-rounded and inspiring episode! Born in 1952, Akio’s life juxtaposed with Japan’s rise as the economic giant is fascinating - from his Tokyo University education, further law studies in the United States, passing the bar in NY state, to his financial career at the IBJ (Industrial Bank of Japan) (now Mizuho bank), Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, eventually becoming the CEO of Lehman Brothers in Japan. He even shares a brief insight into how the Lehman Shock unfolded and his 10-year challenge to bring the ordeal to closure. Akio explains how Crosspoint Advisors, Inc. works and its philanthropic aspirations. His daily basketball workout, playing Yoko-bue (Japanese flute) and shamisen (Japanese string instrument), and six-year passion for kabuki dance keeps Akio motivated and energized! Enjoy!!
In this week’s episode, I am joined by my “Koh-hai” Jon Omori. Born and raised in LA, California, Jon found his passion for gymnastics at age 12. He moved out solo to Arizona at 15 to pursue his training. Jon’s hard work and sacrifice paid off, and in 1984 he became a junior national champion. In 1987 he made it onto the world national team. Jon shares his life experiences and his current endeavors as the Founder of Asami Global Co. Ltd., Special Advisor and Coordinator for the United States Olympic Committee. Check out Jon’s straight arm press into a handstand at the end; he still has it at age 57💪😄. I hope that you enjoy the episode. Please “Like and Subscribe!”
This week I welcomed tennis coach Filip of Krissman Tennis, originally from Calgary and having traveled to 50+ countries landed in Japan to pursue one of his favorite sports, skiing in the Hakuba resort. Fillip started playing tennis at age 11 and ascended to division 1 in college. He is truly a sportsman and has engaged in a wide array of outdoor/indoor sports. His athleticism even carried him into a modeling career...! Equipped with a business degree, Fillip started his Airbnb/location studio development venture while teaching for Allen Krissman (episode #13). His growing passion for teaching tennis to children and adults is refreshing and we both share the joy and the rewards of teaching.
TWO ROOMS AND MORE Matthew Crabbe joins me in this episode and it was refreshing to have a chat about his career choice, his worldly adventures as a chef leading up to his business venture with two partners, and a few of his future plans. Matthew is a restaurateur/chef of three successful establishments in Tokyo and his resume since he immersed himself into the culinary arts from age 16 is impressive and inspiring. I hope that it is enlightening as it was for me and definitely add his restaurants to your dining choices!” Thank you for listening if you haven’t done so already please subscribe and click like. As I believe it’s all on loan so keep reaching for the stars 🌟
WE LOVE WORKING WITH CHILDREN In this episode #16, I welcome a much-anticipated guest, Christy Carrillo (American School in Japan Early Learning Center Director), and being both an educator/parent myself it was such an insightful as well as an inspirational conversation about some of my favorite topics: teaching children, business, and parenting. Christy shared her background from being a business owner of a successful healthcare company in Malaysia to returning to the field that she always had a passion for - early childhood education. After four years in Japan, it is evident that Christy is finding a good fit in her current career, and her positive energy, empathy, and dedication truly shine from the heartfelt recount of her daily joys and learning experiences. I hope that you enjoy it as much as I did!! Thank you for listening if you haven’t done so already please subscribe and click like. As I believe it’s all on loan so keep reaching for the stars 🌟
Aya's mother was a top fashion model and Aya followed in her footsteps, as a model, and in her twenties was the owner of her own Modelling agency. Aya is now a Style Coach and shares a few tips that could help you project a better image when you are out and about and when being photographed. Everyone can benefit from listening to this podcast...enjoy!
CHINESE MARTIAL ARTS MASTER AND FRIEND In this episode, Embrey Williams, a long-time friend, and a fellow motorcyclist share some of his life experiences. From his 35-year passion for martial arts from Wing Chun Kung Fu, which he is currently teaching, and his fitness regimen after a recent bout of Bell's palsy, and how he protects himself against covid. Embrey’s accounts are insightful and as usual, a great time to reconnect/re-energize. Thank you for listening if you haven’t done so already please subscribe and click like. As I believe it’s all on loan so keep reaching for the stars 🌟
TRULY MR. TENNIS Well known and revered in the community as “Mr. Tennis,” Allen Krissman of Krissman International Tennis School came to Japan 30 years ago at the height of the financial bubble. He introduced the American style of teaching tennis, what the Japanese coaches and players yearned for: the aggressive attack game. Driven by the love of the sport, Allen plunged into the booming Japanese tennis market, teaching the individualistic sport to hundreds of players, from then young to the mature. Allen is passionate about teaching as a life skill. He is formulating a technique that he fondly calls “vintage tennis” so that players can continue to play well into their 70s and 80s. He believes that playing tennis contributes to longevity due to the physical movement involved, the cognitive skill enhancement, and the social interaction element of the sport. I salute Allen for his accomplishments from a lifetime teacher to another, and I hope to join him in the courts someday! Thank you for listening if you haven’t done so already please subscribe and click like. As I believe it’s all on loan so keep reaching for the stars 🌟
THE REAL REASON DOMINO'S PIZZA IS IN JAPAN Ernest M. Higa’s keen entrepreneurial sense dialed into the franchise business of Domino’s Pizza, America’s comfort food in Japan. His encounter with the CEO of Domino’s in Ann Arbor, Michigan - from the corporate helicopter that picked him up to the corporate jets, yachts, private island, golf course, classic car collection, etc., the vast display of financial success was impressive. Sticking to his philosophy of “think global, act local,” Ernie developed “takuhai pizza” with various local flavors to tailor Domino’s pizza for the Japanese market. He also created the first industry-wide organization that tied up with the police department to train drivers for safety. This feat earned him an award from the Prime Minister. Domino’s was a phenomenal success in the bubble era of the 1980s, and there are marketing strategies and corporate culture cultivation techniques that he divulges. Ernie then ventured to bring Wendy’s back to Japan for the third time by combining the brand with First Kitchen. Being an entrepreneur, he is an optimist. Ernie shares his thoughts on navigating through the Covid times and the resurgence of the Japanese economy. A content-rich episode worth multiple viewing for sure!! Thank you for listening if you haven’t done so already please subscribe and click like. As I believe it’s all on loan so keep reaching for the stars 🌟
FINALLY IN JAPAN Abi Komolafe is British with roots in Nigeria (Yoruba tribe) and is thriving as an entrepreneur in Tokyo. Raised in England, Abi’s childhood abruptly took a turn when his family moved back to Nigeria. Abi fondly describes the food that provided comfort to ease his troubled 8-year old mind: plantains. Abi is the first importer/wholesaler of plantains in Japan, and he is passionate about introducing healthy additions (i.e., vegetable chips) to his product line. Covid times has given his e-commerce business an unexpected bump in growth. With customers migrated over to online shopping instead of in-person purchases due to the safety factor. We enjoy a candid conversation about cultural differences, human environmental impact, and familial relationships.
Early morning ride to Hakone on my Triumph Rocket 3 motorcycle...6 hours of riding pleasure.
YOU CAN HAVE MUSCLE, BRAINS, AND A GOOD HEART My motorcycle rider, pal Neil Bevan joins me today for an online chat. With a background in professional rugby, his muscular build can be deceiving - Neil is an agile rider and adept at high speed! Business-wise Neil has 19 years of recruiting experience in various industries and now runs his own company. He is also a director of KryptoLock K.K. and is developing market shares in the Middle East and Japan. We discuss the challenges and rewards of conducting business in Japan. There are so many life lessons in business, and we both agree that understanding people is the key to success.
SOUL FOOD FOR REAL Providing delightful Southern comfort food and a warm ambiance, the Soul Food House in Tokyo proudly serves the community, touching the hearts of its patrons. LaTonya and David Whitaker arrived in Japan 15 years ago as missionaries from Atlanta, Georgia. The couple’s culinary skills quickly attracted loyal fans, and the Soul Food House featuring the delicacies of their roots opened its doors. LaTonya, David, and I enjoyed a table talk about our lives in Japan, raising children, and the intricacies of the business. LaTonya also founded the Legacy Foundation Japan to build the African American community in Japan, including all people of color. What a blessing to cross paths with such a dynamic couple - all is well in the Soul Food House!!
WHO SPEAKS WELSH I was fortunate to have an impromptu sit-down with the British School in Tokyo Principal/Headmaster Paul Tough, and we enjoyed getting to know each other. The current position is Paul’s second one in Asia, where he has resided for 21 years. Far away from his home Wales, Paul is pursuing his passion and finds joy by interacting with people every day. His handling of the Covid situation is to be admired and a testament to his administrative acumen.
JACK OF ALL TRADES, MASTER OF MANY Inspired by his father, Cullen developed his business sense as a child and embarked on his journey as an entrepreneur while in the US Air Force. As a civilian, Cullen returned to Okinawa, Japan, where he had serviced and ingratiated himself to the island community where he launched several businesses: used car sales, jewelry retail, day spas, antique Japanese dolls export, international dating, and marriage service. His success-minded attitude has kept Cullen busy even during his bout with Covid-19. The stories are unique, and I am grateful for Cullen taking the time to share them.
JAPANESE INDIES MUSIC ROCKS The host of the “Mike Rogers Show,” a newly launched online show reaching 57 radio stations worldwide, joins me on zoom. Mike Rogers is a 36-year resident of Japan and has been a prominent radio DJ and producer for Japan’s FM stations. The InterFM “Good Morning Garage” by Mike became the station’s biggest show. After 23 years at InterFM, Mike is passionately cultivating his show, modeling the renowned “Wolfman Jack,” and he is proud to be the only DJ spreading the genius of Japanese Indies music around the globe. Mike has also produced two Indies movies and is currently working on a big Hollywood project submitted to the Berlin Film Festival. His business motto of focusing on one genre and becoming an expert is the key to his many accomplishments.
EVERYDAY ABOVE GROUND IS A GOOD DAY Paul Stearns joined me on zoom today - we had a pleasant and reflective conversation about our lives in Japan, the years of service in the US military, values that we abide by, and some future plans. Paul has a similar philosophy that keeps his outlook on life positive and real - things that you cannot control, leave them alone. Be happy every day because you are not guaranteed tomorrow. Appreciate your family, friends, your health, and your well-being - the key to a peaceful and prosperous life. I always leave Paul feeling uplifted and that is such a precious gift.
Danny Howard, a 22-year resident of Japan, is the director of the University of Nevada in Japan. His school is the number 1 feeder of Japanese students to colleges and universities in the US, UK, France, Switzerland, Australia, and Canada. Danny aspires to branch out and establish his school in the future. Cullen Darby talks to us about his international dating/marriage company and a new system he is developing to take it to a “whole other level!”
TAKING IT TO A WHOLE NEW LEVEL! Dan Smith joins me in the first episode of my newly released podcast and shares some incredible stories that shape the arc of his success in Japan. An avid reader from childhood, Dan pursues journalism as a career while he serves 21 years in the US Air Force. Dan chooses to continue working in the civilian sector for the local newspapers, beating out competitions and becoming the best in the field. Once Dan switches to TV production, his achievements at AP, BET, and filming Michael Jackson in Japan give him notoriety and the confidence boost he needed to start his own inspirational media creations documenting the successes of foreigners in Japan. His exceptional US military docu-series “Defending Japan” won Best Documentary at the Japan Cuts Film Festival in Hollywood. I am so proud to know this talented director/producer - what a blessing to witness and celebrate the milestones of his legacy firsthand!
Director/Producer Dan Smith tells Lance and Cullen about his experience filming and talking with Michael Jackson during his last visit to Japan.