Now and Zen Japan

Hosted by Andrew Hankinson

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Dec 2024

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About the show

Entertaining and insightful conversations with Japan focused business professionals, entrepreneurs, and creatives. Recorded in bars around Tokyo, it’s like eavesdropping on candid conversations with Japan experts who share engaging stories of success, failure, and wisdom gained in Japan. Discover first-hand what it’s like to live, work, and experience the most fascinating country in the world. Direct from Tokyo, this is the Now and Zen Podcast!

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60 recent

December 27, 2024Episode 9643 min

Alvin Tan: 6 Controversial Reasons Foreigners should work for Japanese Companies

Have you ever been curious about working for a Japanese company but felt discouraged by stories of long hours, low pay, rigid hierarchies, and mandatory social drinking? If so, this episode is for you. Our guest, Alvin Tan, dives into his controversial Medium article, "Why More Foreigners in Japan Should Work for Japanese Companies: Six Reasons to Consider It."The article sparked a firestorm online, generating nearly 100 negative comments on social media, with many Japan experts calling working for a Japanese company a career dead end. But Alvin challenges that narrative, sharing six compelling reasons why it might actually be a great opportunity for foreigners.As someone who has worked for two Japanese companies myself, I’ve seen firsthand the benefits—and was inspired to offer my own six reasons why it’s worth considering. Together, we break down 12 reasons why working for a Japanese company might just be the career move you didn’t know you needed. Other topics we discuss:Learning about real Japan via Japanese corporate cultureMastering the Japanese concept of QC, Customer Service, and HospitalityThe difference between Otsukaresama and Gokorosama?Why Japanese companies don't have clear job descriptionsWhy one is unlikely to ever get fired from a Japanese companyThe pay isn’t good, but the benefits are usually greatYou get paid to practice JapaneseBeing a great stepping stone for better job opportunitiesAlvin's two favorite untranslatable Japanese wordsAlvin Tan on Medium: https://medium.com/@alvintwritesAlvin Tan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alvin-tanMore Now and Zen episodes: https://www.nowandzen.jp/Dream Drive: https://www.dreamdrive.life

November 26, 2024Episode 9542 min

Sean Nichols: Japan Entertainment industry insider & Ultraman actor

Welcome to today’s episode! Our guest is the multi-talented Sean Nichols, whose career is as diverse as it is inspiring. Sean has captivated audiences as an entertainer on Japanese TV, performed as a Manzai stand-up comedian, and even served as the global representative for Japan's biggest YouTuber. He’s toured with Aerosmith and, most famously, broke barriers as the first—and only—foreigner to star in the Ultraman series during its 40-year history, playing "Sean White" in 50 episodes.In this episode, Sean takes us on a dream journey, sharing how he went from watching Ultraman on TV as a child to donning the iconic suit. He dives deep into his experiences in the Japanese entertainment industry: founding his own talent agency, navigating cultural nuances, and facing the highs and lows of stand-up comedy—including a memorable loss in the final round of a competition due to one bold joke. Plus, Sean reflects on the biggest professional risk of his career, one that ultimately led to touring with rock legends Aerosmith.Get ready for an episode filled with passion, perseverance, and behind-the-scenes stories you won’t hear anywhere else! Other topics we discuss:The top 3 things Japanese always find hilarious How auditions and talent agencies work in JapanBest explanation of what is a “Tarento” Representing the most famous Japanese Youtuber Hikakin and getting him on stage with AerosmithBackstage Stories with Steven Tyler and the bandHow humor in Japan is different from western humorJapanese comedy-style Manzai explained 3 tips for foreigners interested in getting into the Japan entertainment industryAdvice on how to be funny in JapaneseFavorite untranslatable Japanese wordMore Now and Zen Japan episodes: http://nowandzen.jpJapan Adventures via Camper Van = Dream Drive: https://www.dreamdrive.lifeUse the code word "ZEN" to receive discounts

October 27, 2024Episode 9443 min

(Best of) Masafumi Otsuka: Intercultural Business Facilitator and Cultural Navigator

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the often-mystifying Japanese business practices that foreigners in Japan struggle to navigate. Intercultural facilitator Masafumi Otsuka sheds light on puzzling practices like "Why Japanese managers change jobs every three years" and "Why they always see the glass as half empty." Masa offers a logical breakdown of the periodic job rotation system and Japan’s risk-averse decision-making process.We also explore key cultural concepts that are often misunderstood by Westerners—such as Nemawashi, Genten Shugi, and Kyochosei—all explained by Masa in a fun and enlightening way.Masa shares personal stories about his own struggles, including returning to Japan as a student, the politics behind leaving a high-profile job, and what it's like to feel "1/3 Japanese, 1/3 American, and 1/3 confused." This episode is packed with insights and humor, offering a unique perspective on the complexities of Japanese business culture. Other highlights from our conversation:Why there is no Japanese word for "procrastinate"The unspoken rule for Japanese overseas returnee studentsThe priority in Japan is harmonizeWhat does an Intercultural Facilitator do?Best ever explanation of Nemawashi & Genten ShugiThe subtle art of not having to tell everythingExpertise in Japan is 10ft. wide and 1inch deep while in the US its 1inch wide and 10ft. deepStrategies for getting a positive outcome from Japanese meetingsThe reason Japanese prefer the process vs the outcomeMasafumi Otsuka: https://www.linkedin.com/in/masafumiotsuka/More Now and Zen Japan episodes: http://nowandzen.jpGrow website traffic = Zo Digital: https://www.zodigital.jp/Japan Adventures via Camper Van = Dream Drive: https://www.dreamdrive.lifeUse the code word "ZEN" to receive discounts

September 28, 2024Episode 9343 min

Yuko Tamura: Bi-cultural storyteller offering "rebellious" insights on Japan.

In this episode, I’m joined by Yuko Tamura, an award-winning writer on the Medium platform and editor of Japonica—the go-to publication for everything Japan. Yuko’s writing is a blend of "Fun Facts about Japan" and what she calls "a little rebellious essays" from Tokyo.We discuss some of her standout articles, including "The 3 Facts You Should Know Before Marketing to Japan." Yuko has a passion for cross-cultural topics and offers valuable advice for both Japanese and English speakers on how to avoid cultural misunderstandings.We also talk about her experiences writing for Medium, the opportunities for writers, and why Japonica is a must-join community for anyone covering Japan-related topics.Our conversation takes a deep dive into themes such as gender inequality in Japan, dealing with internet trolls, and how Yuko became bi-cultural despite never living outside of Japan. We also touch on her experiences working for both Japanese and foreign companies, as well as other fascinating stories from her career. Other topics we discuss:Discuss her "3 Facts to know before Marketing to Japan" article "Hone" and "Tatemae" explained from a Japanese perspectiveBreaks down the anatomy of internal business meetings at Japanese companiesWhy decisions take longer in corporate Japan Writing and speaking in English being a "liberating" exerciseOnly writing in English about gender inequality to avoid internet trollsThe Motivation Behind Her Articles on Gender Inequality and Sexism in JapanTogether we coin a new Japanese word for "Empowerment"Favorite Japanese word without an exact English translationYuko Tamura: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yuko-tamura-041b96ab/Japonica: https://medium.com/japonica-publicationMore Now and Zen Japan episodes: http://nowandzen.jpJapan Adventures via Camper Van = Dream Drive: https://www.dreamdrive.life

August 26, 2024Episode 9242 min

(Best of) Ed Thompson: Marketing Consultant and Educator

Now and Zen Japan is excited to welcome Mr. Ed Thompson, a Marketing Consultant and the founder of Concept Design. In this episode, we enjoy some beers while diving into Ed's over 20-year journey in Japan and his extensive career in marketing, branding, advertising, and academia. Ed has also been a lecturer at Temple University for more than 15 years. Known for his straightforward communication and strong opinions on marketing, Ed shares stories from his early days in Japan, including his experiences of being disciplined with bamboo sticks, working alongside bureaucrats, and starting his own business after just five years in the country. He offers a unique perspective on why Japanese brand logos often use words instead of pictograms and discusses how to find your Personal Branding "voice" by critiquing the competition. Ed also explores deeper philosophical themes, such as the concepts of Wabi-Sabi and Kintsugi, and how they relate to perseverance and the Japanese spirit. Additional topics we cover include:An interesting way to translate the word "marketing" Understanding self-worth and context when giving yourself an appropriate business titleWhy his list of clients in Japan are predominantly foreign affiliatedHow "creative" departments differ in Japan and the main role of ad agencies"Making order out of chaos" . . . the driver for Ed's passion for marketingWas Omotenashi developed as a social norm or a way to make customers more receptive to your brand?In Japan, "Being present is more important than being whole"Why email remains the most important CRM dataConcept Design: https://conceptdesign.io/Ed Thompson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ethompson/More Now and Zen Japan episodes: http://nowandzen.jpJapan Adventures via Camper Van = Dream Drive: https://www.dreamdrive.life

July 28, 2024Episode 9145 min

(Best of) Kaki Okumura: Japanese Principles to Live a Longer & Happier Life

This conversation is one of the most amazing I've had since starting Now and Zen Japan. This episode could certainly change your life. Especially if you suffer from unhealthy lifestyle habits. Prepare to be blown away by Kaki Okumura's wisdom, demeanor, and insight into well-being and nutrition. Kaki breaks down Japanese based wellness concepts through her "Four Essential Pillars to Healthy Living" in a very convincing and non-preachy way. She is a writer, an illustrator, a wellness coach, and very well could be a therapist or nutrition teacher. In addition to her fascinating backstory which includes her experience with food being a source of stress and anxiety and how healthy eating does not have to be a sacrifice, we get into her business as a writer on Medium, starting her own business just after university, and the various revenue streams she has built for herself. Just start listening to the first 5 minutes and for sure you will be hooked and inspired by her simple and empathetic message. Other topics we discuss: Improving your overall well-being based on Japanese conceptsWhy eating healthy in the US is a challenge whereas its pretty simple in JapanThe power of balanced meals, moderation, and portion managementHow retired sumo wrestlers lose weightWhat Japanese can learn from the US about healthy livingWhy ginger is included with so many Japanese mealsFood is closely linked to environment, experiences, and emotionsIs "organic" really healthier?Variety, and why this is nutritionally important How much can one make writing for Medium?The Free Unsolicited Business IdeaKaki's two favorite untranslatable Japanese wordsKaki's Website: https://kakikata.space/More Now and Zen Japan episodes: https://www.nowandzen.jp/Grow website traffic = Zo Digital: https://www.zodigital.jp/Japan Adventures via Camper Van = Dream Drive: https://www.dreamdrive.lifeUse the code word "ZEN" to receive discounts

June 24, 2024Episode 9035 min

(Best of) Robert Whiting Part 2: "Tokyo Junkie" Baseball Stories and more

Part 2 of my interview with author Robert Whiting about his recent best selling memoir "Tokyo Junkie" 60 years of bright lights, back alleys, and baseball. In this episode, Bob tells great stories about colorful foreign players and well-known Japanese baseball stars. Part 2, we talk mostly about the baseball stories from his memoir, but also get into the important story of how writing his first book "The Chrysanthemum and the Bat" completely changed his life. Together with episode #1 this is another important and rare opportunity to hear the history and evolution of Tokyo, from one Olympics in 1964 to the the current Tokyo 2020 games as lived and experienced by a true story teller, Robert Whiting. Other topics we discuss:The real reason Nomo went to the US to play for the DodgersNY Yankees slugger Hideki Matsui's adult video collection storyBeing interviewed by Larry KingReminiscing the time spent with Sadaharu OhThe Yomiuri Giants 10 Commandments for foreign ball playersHow the export of Japanese players to the Major League has changed Japanese baseball Why there are fewer gaijin cultural transgressions these daysThe backstory behind a keepsake he received from a fan . . . and former US PresidentWhy gaijin "used" to get an expanded strike zoneBob's favorite untranslatable Japanese wordRobert's Books (Tokyo Junkie): https://www.amazon.com/Robert-Whiting/Robert Whiting: https://tokyojunkie.com/More Now and Zen Japan episodes: https://www.nowandzen.jp/Grow your website traffic = Zo Digital: https://www.zodigital.jp/Japan Adventures via Camper Van = Dream Drive: https://www.dreamdrive.lifeUse the code word "ZEN" to receive discounts

May 29, 2024Episode 8942 min

(Best Of) Robert Whiting: "Tokyo Junkie" 60 Years of Bright Lights, Back Alleys, and Baseball - Part 1

I've been a devoted fan of Robert Whiting since I first read "Chrysanthemum and the Bat" in high school during the 1980s. After many critically acclaimed books, I had the opportunity to sit down with Bob to discuss his latest memoir, "Tokyo Junkie: 60 Years of Bright Lights and Back Alleys... and Baseball." In our conversation, Bob shares his firsthand insights into six decades of captivating, dangerous, bizarre, and heartfelt experiences, spanning from the first Olympics in 1964 to the current 2021 games. This is part one of a two-part podcast interview. In this episode, we delve into the "Bright Lights and Back Alleys" of Tokyo Junkie, while the second episode will cover "Baseball" and more. This rare, oral history offers a raw and underground look at Tokyo, narrated by the man who lived it—from soldier to degenerate, to professional, to the rojin—Robert Whiting. Other topics we cover include:What it's like to have your life threatened by the Yakuza (twice)Why writing a Memoir was a "painful" processThe big break which changed his lifeBefriending gangsters and its repercussionsBack stories of mafia and politicsWhat led to the writing of his 1st bookAfter 60 years in Japan what he misses most about the "good old days"News of his next book, a sequel to "Tokyo Underworld" Most "Gratifying" professional achievement Interview tips for a certain podcaster ;-) Robert's Books (Tokyo Junkie): https://www.amazon.com/Robert-Whiting/Robert Whiting: https://tokyojunkie.com/More Now and Zen Japan episodes: https://www.nowandzen.jp/Japan Adventures via Camper Van = Dream Drive: https://www.dreamdrive.life

April 29, 2024Episode 8839 min

Meshida: Japanese Stand-Up Comedian

Meshida, a former Japanese salaryman turned English language standup comedian, has spent the last ten years crafting his unique brand of comedy, delighting audiences in both Japan and the UK. Alongside his successful career as a standup, he's made a name for himself on YouTube, particularly for his humorous take on Japan's "pink" culture, while also exploring many other "wholesome" cultural topics. In our conversation, we delve into his journey to becoming a full-time comedian, the nuances between Japanese and Western humor, memorable moments from his time on stage, his earnings from viral YouTube videos, the sources of his joke-writing inspiration, and the reactions of his parents and Japanese audiences to his career and content. We also discuss other topics, including: First open mic experience at 21Why physical humor is popular in JapanTurning his insecurities into self deprecating humorHis 1st successful joke which got a huge laughIs "Manzai" the Japanese equivalent of Western standup? Once losing his confidence for 6 months after bombing on stageThe one question he would ask his favorite comicWhy its difficult to monetize YouTube even with millions of views and 60k subscribers His YouTube strategy to gain more fans and followersMeeting other international Japanese standup comediansFunny Japan Project: https://funnyjapanproject.com/Standup Comedian Meshida: https://www.youtube.com/channel/More Now and Zen Japan episodes: https://www.nowandzen.jp/Grow website traffic = Zo Digital: https://www.zodigital.jp/Japan Adventures via Camper Van = Dream Drive: https://www.dreamdrive.life

March 26, 2024Episode 8740 min

Alex Debs: Luxury Travel Designer

Have you ever fantasized about the ultimate luxury vacation in Japan? If so, Alex Debs is your go-to guy. As the founder of Hitotoki, the Luxury Travel Designer, Alex specializes in crafting luxurious travel experiences in Japan. In this episode, you'll get an inside look into the world of luxury travel planning, including the most challenging requests his team has faced. We'll discuss how he navigated the pandemic restrictions, the unique challenges of being a small, specialized agency, and his interactions with Japan's large travel associations. Plus, Alex shares exclusive itinerary suggestions for a 2-3 day trip out of Tokyo and insights into booking a seat at the world-famous Jiro Sushi restaurant.We'll also explore a range of other fascinating topics, including:The role of a "Luxury Travel Designer" and defining "luxury" in travelTips for selecting the best travel guidesHow to handle illegal requests in the luxury travel industryDifferences in itinerary preferences among nationalitiesChallenges faced by hotels in accommodating foreign luxury guestsStories from the "Go-To-Travel" program and insights into Japan's travel associationsThe untapped luxury market potential of OkinawaThe business opportunity that inspired the creation of HITOTOKIA "Free Unsolicited Business Idea" from our conversationConnect with Alex Debs on LinkedIn and learn more about Hitotoki at hitotoki-travel.com. For more episodes of Now and Zen Japan, visit nowandzen.jp.