Folgen
-
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/@alvintwrites
Alvin Tan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alvin-tan
More Now and Zen episodes: https://www.nowandzen.jp/
Dream Drive: https://www.dreamdrive.life -
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.jp
Japan Adventures via Camper Van = Dream Drive: https://www.dreamdrive.life
Use the code word "ZEN" to receive discounts -
Fehlende Folgen?
-
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/
Use the code word "ZEN" to receive discounts
More Now and Zen Japan episodes: http://nowandzen.jp
Grow website traffic = Zo Digital: https://www.zodigital.jp/
Japan Adventures via Camper Van = Dream Drive: https://www.dreamdrive.life -
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.jp
Japan Adventures via Camper Van = Dream Drive: https://www.dreamdrive.life -
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.jp
Japan Adventures via Camper Van = Dream Drive: https://www.dreamdrive.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/
Use the code word "ZEN" to receive discounts
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 -
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/
Use the code word "ZEN" to receive discounts
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.life -
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 -
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 -
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.
-
It's a truly inspiring chat with the incredibly positive and humble entrepreneur, Anthony Griffin. He's the brains behind Saga Consulting, a company dedicated to helping organizations and individuals share their stories with the world. They specialize in global communications, offering top-notch copywriting, digital marketing, and cross-cultural coaching. Anthony also pens insightful articles for Kokoro Media on LinkedIn, where he shares his passion for Japanese language learning and provides tips for taking your skills to the next level.
In our conversation, Anthony and I both share three essential yet culturally impactful Japanese words that every beginner should learn. We also delve into a variety of topics, including:
Techniques for acquiring new clients as an entrepreneurHow Saga Consulting supports Japanese companies in expanding internationallyCommon hurdles Japanese companies face when going globalBalancing Japanese cultural norms with personal styleAnthony's expertise in working with "Foreign Curious" companiesLessons learned from working for a Japanese companyEarly cultural missteps in Japanese corporate lifeRecommended Japanese language apps for rapid learningSimple language tips for fostering better community relationsFavorite untranslatable Japanese wordUnique Japanese words beginners should masterYou can connect with Anthony Griffin on LinkedIn, learn more about Saga Consulting at consultsaga.com, and read his articles on Kokoro Media. For more episodes of Now and Zen Japan, visit nowandzen.jp. And if you're looking for Japan adventures in a camper van, discover Dream Drive.
-
Discover the art of mastering public speaking, enhancing your presentation skills, and unraveling the secrets to impactful storytelling. Join Dr. Greg Story, the esteemed president of Dale Carnegie Japan and bestselling author of "Japan Sales Mastery" and "Japan Business Mastery," as he shares invaluable insights into successful sales techniques, post-COVID sales process shifts, and a myriad of topics explored in his books.
In this engaging conversation, we delve into the question of whether Greg's six podcasts might be considered "too much content." He regales us with true-life experiences that beautifully complement his business tips, insights, and advice, drawing from his rich background as a 6th-degree black belt in Karate with 38 years of experience in Japan. The episode unfolds as a captivating discussion on how actions and choices can profoundly impact one's life and career. Other topics covered are:
The significance of public speaking skills in advancing your careerTips to ease nerves before a public presentationStrategies to "bullet-proof" yourself against challenging audience questionsGreg's simplified four elements of a successful presentationThe rationale behind his decision to "niche-down" with six podcasts instead of oneGreg's biggest "pet-peeve" when listening to other presentersIn-depth exploration of the contents and background of his bestselling booksThe transformative influence of Karate on Greg's life, perspective, and careerThe profound meaning behind his favorite untranslatable Japanese word, "Zanshin."Greg Story: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregstory/
Dale Carnegie Japan: https://www.dalecarnegie.com/ja/locations/japan
Japan Dale Carnegie TV: https://www.youtube.com
Japan Adventures via Camper Van = Dream Drive: https://www.dreamdrive.life
More Now and Zen Japan Episodes HERE -
Meet a true Hospitality Professional. Mr. Matthias Sutter, the Rep. Director of Shangri-La Hotels Japan and the GM of the Shangri-La Hotel Tokyo. We discuss Japanese customer service, how different nationalities have different hospitality expectations, his two requirements for anyone to succeed in the hotel business, and how starting off in Food & Beverage helped craft his strong sense of hospitality. We also talk Trip Advisor, hotel rankings, and the guest comments he likes the most. If you are curious about how luxury hotel GM's think, practice, and teach customer service and hospitality, this episode is a must-listen. Other topics we cover:
Why hotels are an "El Dorado" for customer serviceThe three topics to never discuss with hotel guestsDifferent cultures have different interpretations of hospitalityJapanese service vs. other Asian countriesPreparations for the Shangri-La Kyoto openingGuest comments which led to innovative and successful promotionsHotel "brands" have separate DNA, thus some customer focus differences Japanese "guest comment" tendenciesThe Free Unsolicited Business IdeaThe Shangri-La Hotel Tokyo: https://www.shangri-la.com/tokyo/shangrila/
Japan Adventures via Camper Van = Dream Drive: https://www.dreamdrive.life
More Now and Zen Japan episodes: https://www.nowandzen.jp/ -
The phrase "Do what you love and you never have to work another day in your life" fits Mac Salman perfectly. Mac left the finance industry and pursued his passions - Travel, Japan, and tasty spirits. We discuss his customized tour business Maction Planet where he has never conducted the same itinerary twice. Then his pivot to Kanpai Planet when the pandemic halted Japan tourism. We discuss these two businesses and life in Tokyo while we sample three "Japan Related" tequilas. Mac is an inimitable and articulate British gentleman who does his homework. He brings insider knowledge and back stories to Shizuku, Cascahuin, and Don Suenos tequilas and their fascinating Japan connections. Even if you are not a big fan of whiskey or tequila, Mac's stories and insight make for a very lively and enjoyable conversation. Other topics we discuss:
Leaving the lucrative finance industry and pursuing his passion for travelThe philosophy of changing tour guiding from a "commodity to a profession"Maction Planet's 99.6% rating on Trip Advisor and why its not 100%25 straight years of whisky consumption decline in Japan. That all changed in 2008Why he can be found at Jingu Stadium up to 50 times a yearSample Blanco and Reposado from Shizuku and discover its ties to FukuokaMac's amazing Sake knowledge and how he applies it to tequila tasting The hierarchy of needs and the 5 reasons Tokyo is the "Greatest Metropolis on Earth"Taste test the Blanco and an Extra Anejo from Cascahuin created by Japanese "Tetsu" KagedaThe background of the only Tequila brand owned by a Japanese woman - we try the Reposado and Anejo from Don SuenosMaction Planet: https://www.mactionplanet.com/
Trip Advisor: https://www.tripadvisor.com
Kanpai Planet: https://www.youtube.com
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 -
Deanna Elstrom is a veteran brand marketer, brand strategist, and consumer insights specialist. She started her own consulting business, Somi Insights, three years ago where she combines her love of branding with a fascination of how culture influences human behavior. The Japanese consumer is a key area of Deanna's expertise where she led two major agencies before starting Somi Insights. We discuss the the Japanese name "Somi" which she coined, we learn the big difference between "insights" and "findings", great examples of how culture influences behavior in Japan, a cultural analysis into why Japan is ranked #58 on the Global Happiness Index, and stories of her first experience in Japan as a teenager and how this crafted her Japan journey. Other topics we cover:
The meaning of "Somi", a made-up Japanese wordJapan and the dilemma of happinessThe difference Somi Insights brings to the Japan marketFindings vs. Insights explanation with examplesOmotenashi and Sustainability balanceShe questions my Japan kitchenware market "insights" Interesting Japan beauty market discoveries Her favorite untranslatable Japanese word = Yoroshiku OnegaishimasuThe Japanese and Western interpretation of what "home" is"The researcher is the consumer voice, keep the consumer voice as a superpower"Somi Insights home page: http://somiinsights.com
Use the code word "ZEN" to receive discounts
Deanna Elstrom: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deanna-elstrom
Japan Adventures via Camper Van = Dream Drive: https://www.dreamdrive.life -
Parissa Haghirian is an internationally renowned expert on Japanese Management and Leadership and a Professor of International Management at Sofia University. She is the author of 12 books on Japanese Management, Cross-Cultural topics, and Consumer Dynamics. We examine these as well as some cultural concepts from her latest book. We also discuss how Japanese management practice is uniquely different, successful Japanese corporate survival strategies and what foreign firms can learn, why cross-cultural business issues are often Japan specific, and her favorite language concept "50 ways to say No in Japanese which don't actually include No". Other topics of interest:
In-depth explanation on the fundamental differences between Westerns and Japanese management environmentsHow "Constant Job Rotation" is a benefit for Japanese managementWhy are cute mascots essential in corporate JapanInsight on how Japanese companies are actually very open-mindedThe advantages and disadvantages of the "process driven" nature of Japanese companies "Cross-cultural growth is based on mistakes, it's a tough and emotional learning process"Consumer dynamics and the challenges facing foreign brands entering JapanExplanations of Ganbaru, Gamman, and Enryo from her book "Japanese Business Concepts you should Know" "The most interesting question for Japanese is how foreigners manage, and the most interesting for foreigners is how Japanese manage" The advise which led to her dedication of researching Japanese management.The question she wishes people had asked her, but has yet had the chance to answer - until nowParissa Haghirian: https://www.linkedin.com
Use the code word "ZEN" to receive discounts
Japanese Business Concepts You Should Know: https://www.amazon.com/Japanese-Business-Concepts
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 -
Jeff Crawford is the president of Zo Digital, a bi-lingual digital marketing agency he founded over seven years ago. He describes many of the mistakes foreign companies make when setting up their web presence in Japan and explains how to remedy these issues. What hidden gems can be discovered in your site analytics to improve eCom sales. Why Japanese sites are often so busy and loud. Simple and practical advise on how to increase traffic and improve conversion rates through "Authoritativeness" and "Trustworthiness". This might sound a bit technical but Jeff explains it all in a very easy to understand style. I guarantee you will become more digital marketing savvy after listening to Jeff's stories and advise. Other topics we discuss:
The biggest mistakes foreign firms make when launching web sites in JapanWhat is a "YMYL" site (Your Money or Your Life)How Google ranks and evaluates websitesSimple methods to increase your site's E.A.T. (E = Expertise)Isn't "User Experience" subjective?The best and worst way to create web "content"Google voice search SEO is comingThe most important web site page for Japanese (26:23)Key Word research and how to master the nuanceWhat many Japanese think about the typical western website How much companies should invest in SEO as a % of salesHow does understanding analytics specifically improve ones business (29:34)The Free Unsolicited Business IdeaZo Digital: https://www.zodigital.jp/
Jeff Crawford: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffcrawford/
Japan Adventures via Camper Van = Dream Drive: https://www.dreamdrive.life
More Episodes like this HERE: https://www.nowandzen.jp/ -
Introducing the remarkable and iconic veteran of Tokyo, Timothy Langley. With an impressive track record of over 40 years in Japan, Timothy is the visionary founder of Japan's premier government and public consultancy firm, Langley Esquire. What sets Timothy apart is his groundbreaking achievement as the first foreigner to work in the Japan National Diet, collaborating closely with senior Japanese politicians. His expertise extends far and wide, having served as the top Legal and Government Affairs Specialist for Apple Computer (Japan), General Counsel to General Motors (Japan), and as a director for numerous companies, ranging from ambitious startups to Fortune 100 giants.
Despite his illustrious career, Timothy is also the Host and Executive Producer of Japan's exclusive Public Affairs-related audio/video series, the renowned "Tokyo on Fire!" And the popular video series "Japanese Politics one on one". When it comes to fascinating individuals in Japan, Timothy Langley shines as the ultimate example. Other topics we cover:
Great stories from serving as handler for Pres. George Bush during his Japan visitRelated stories about "clash of cultures" with the Secret ServiceWhy foreigners in Japan are often "Agents of Change"His own incredible "Agent of Change" storiesSpices up politics and explains how and why the LDP stays in powerWhy Public Affairs is so import in Japan but yet an untapped marketMotivation and insight for starting one of the first Japan YouTube video series - Tokyo on Fire! The "Free Unsolicited Business Idea" What is "Onomatopoeia" and why there are so many in JapanLangley Esquire: https://langleyesquire.com
Tokyo On Fire! Tokyo on Fire! YouTube
More on the George Bush visit: My Memory Of George H.W. Bush
Timothy Langley: LinkedIn ProfileGreat Sleep Starts Here = gugu Sleep Company: https://gugu.jp
Japan Adventures via Camper Van = Dream Drive: https://www.dreamdrive.life -
Dive into the world of traditional Japanese sword making with craftsman Taro Asano. He is one of only a handful of practicing "Kajiya" (a person who forges Japanese swords / Katana) still in Japan. He also offers a workshop in English where people come to make their own custom-forged "Samurai knife". It's a unique once in a lifetime experience. We discuss all things Katana, how he became a Kajiya, his future plans - which include taking on a 20-year old American apprentice and creating a You-Tube channel to chronicle their adventures, and why Japanese sword/ blacksmithing is more popular with foreigners than with Japanese. Other topics we cover:
How long and what it takes to become a KajiyaHis thoughts on the Master - Apprentice relationshipInsight on forging steel and the processes he employsLearn why 70% of his workshop participants come from the same fieldThe rules and etiquette around handling a Japanese Katana Why he makes kitchen knives in addition to swordsIs the myth you have to register your Katana with the police true?Plans for his 20-year old American apprenticeThe Free Unsolicited Business IdeaAsano Kajiya: http://asanokajiya.com/en
Asanokajiya Studio (You Tube): https://www.youtube.com/channel/
More Now and Zen episodes: https://www.nowandzen.jp/
Dream Drive: https://www.dreamdrive.life -
Award-winning broadcaster and radio host Guy Perryman. Guy's soothing and melodic voice has been heard throughout Japan for the past 30 years starting with the launch of Virgin Megastores in 1990 and then Tokyo's InterFM since 1997. In addition, he's a voice actor, event producer, and writer. He has DJ'd for British Royalty and interviewed 100's of world famous artists and businessmen from Paul McCartney and Sting to Richard Branson and designer Paul Smith. We discuss some of these interactions and hear a couple celebrity stories as well as learning about being awarded the official title of MBE from the British Government. We wrap up this episode with special Christmas song from the Watanabes, co-produced with Guy Perryman called "Christmas Hummingbird". This song can be heard at the 45min. mark of the podcast. Other topics we cover:
How a planned 3-month stint at Virgin Megastores turned into over 30 years in JapanBeing nervous before interviewing world famous artists and who surprised him mostWhy celebrities often let their guard down when visiting JapanThe power of music and importance of mentorsHis frustrations with Japanese media and celebrity cultureWhy it's nearly impossible export Japanese radio shows outside JapanWhat he collects - its not autographsMy unsolicited business advise for Guy Perryman His unsuccessful attempts to export J-Pop in the early daysWhy "Genki" is his favorite Japanese wordGuy Perryman: http://www.http://guyperryman.com
The Guy Perryman Show InterFM: https://interfm.co.jp/gps/
The Watanabes: http://thewatanabes.com
Christmas Hummingbird: https:/.youtube.com/watch?v=X7FEas03XjgGreat Sleep Starts Here = gugu Sleep Company: https://gugu.jp
Use the code word "ZEN" to receive discounts
Japan Adventures via Camper Van = Dream Drive: https://www.dreamdrive.life - Mehr anzeigen
