Wabi Sabi - The Perfectly Imperfect Podcast with Candice Kumai

Welcome to Wabi Sabi. Have we been kind to the Japanese? Do we deserve Japanese 7-Elevens in NY? How about asking a Japanese- American? In Today’s episode is about reflection, learning, and appreciation. There is so much to learn from Japanese history — from the Edo period, to the U.S. Occupation, to the reawakening of Japanese hearts in the 20th century, and the complex but resilient relationship between Japan and the U.S.. If you ask me, we shouldn’t learn about Japan — we should learn from Japan. That means supporting Japanese voices, reading books by Japanese and Japanese American authors, and buying Japanese products, foods, beauty, and cultural traditions directly from their source. The research and care that goes into each episode can take me weeks, even months, to create. So if you enjoy listening, please subscribe, leave a comment, and share this podcast with two of your best friends. Now — what can we learn from the obliteration of matcha in the Western world? What can we learn from the history of Japanese Americans, wrongfully imprisoned in concentration camps during World War II, accused of crimes they did not commit? What can we learn from the resilience of a culture that endured deep suffering, only for us to now enjoy its traditions, artistry, and cuisine in all their beauty, novelty, and kawaii? We are able to appreciate Japanese culture today only because our ancestors paid a dear price. This is something we must honor, reflect on, and consider deeply in today’s episode. Thanks for listening. —Candice Kumai

In this episode of Wabi Sabi, I share the historical truth about matcha — from Eisai, the monk who first introduced powdered tea to Japan, to Sen no Rikyū, who refined the way of tea during the Tokugawa era. We trace matcha’s roots through centuries of Japanese history, examining its role as a cultural and spiritual practice as well as a daily ritual. I also address the current shortage of ceremonial-grade matcha, why demand is outpacing supply, and what we can do about it. Finally, I call for better journalism around matcha — reporting that goes beyond trend-driven coverage to honor its sacred origins and the Japanese farmers and artisans who continue to protect and preserve this tradition. — Candice Kumai

In this episode of Wabi Sabi, I open up about how we can stay grounded and strong while the world feels chaotic. Everywhere we turn right now—news, politics, social feeds—it feels heavy. But instead of waiting for the world to get better, I’ve learned we have to work on our inner world first. I take you through the lessons of kintsugi, the Japanese art of golden repair, and how those same principles can help us rebuild from the inside out. I share why I stopped waiting for someone to “save me,” how I started to see my own worth, and why self‑compassion is one of the most powerful tools we have. You’ll hear real strategies for catching negative self‑talk in the moment, shifting it toward forgiveness and love, and refocusing your energy on what you can control. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed or stuck, this episode is a reminder that the cracks in your life aren’t flaws—they’re where your gold goes.

This week, I’m peeling back the glossy filters and calling it like it is. Why are so many individuals on social just shaming machines in disguise? I’m talking about the rise of the shamefluencer — creators who weaponize wellness language to judge, call out, and divide. It’s a culture that prioritizes perfectionism over progress, comparison over compassion, and fear over freedom. In this solo episode, I’m chatting performative wellness is hurting real healing, and what true self-work actually looks like — beyond the highlight reels and hashtags. Healing isn’t about shaming others to feel better about yourself or to grow a following or get clicks. It’s about embracing imperfection, owning your journey, and showing up with honesty and vulnerability. Be gentle with you and with all. It’s time to reclaim wellness as a space for growth, connection, and kindness — not judgement. A gentle reminder from me to you: everybody’s trying their best — and if you can be kind, be kind. You can always be kind. x Candice

After a 8 days offline, I was reminded that the deepest healing doesn’t come from doing more—but from being more present. In this episode, I share why immersing yourself in nature for just 3 to 4 days can reset your nervous system, clear your mind, and bring you back to yourself. This isn’t about escape—it’s about return. To the quiet. To stillness. To the real you. I’ll walk you through how to take a restorative break in nature, what to expect emotionally and physically, and why this kind of reset is essential in today’s overstimulated world. Let this be your reminder: nature always welcomes you back—with mercy, with grace, and without judgment. Benefits of Immersing in Nature for 3–4 Days 1. Nervous System Reset – Reduces cortisol (stress hormone) – Activates the parasympathetic (rest and digest) system – Lowers heart rate and blood pressure 2. Mental Clarity & Focus – Boosts cognitive function and memory – Reduces mental fatigue and brain fog – Encourages clearer, calmer decision-making 3. Emotional Detox & Healing – Allows space to process emotions without distraction – Supports mood stability and lowers anxiety – May bring suppressed feelings to the surface (a healthy release) 4. Enhanced Creativity – Being in natural environments stimulates creative thinking – Encourages new ideas, inspiration, and problem-solving – Helps reconnect to your inner artist or writer 5. Better Sleep – Resets circadian rhythm – Natural light exposure improves melatonin regulation – Physical movement + no screens = deeper rest 6. Physical Vitality – Encourages gentle, natural movement (walking, hiking) – Clean air and natural light nourish your cells – Anti-inflammatory effects from phytoncides (plant compounds released by trees) 7. Spiritual Reconnection – Deepens your sense of purpose and gratitude – Quiet moments in nature often lead to insights or breakthroughs – Helps you remember you are part of something larger 8. Digital Detox – Clears digital overload and constant stimulation – Rebuilds attention span and presence – Creates time for journaling, reflection, or silence 9. Self-Compassion & Presence – Nature does not judge—she invites you to just be – Encourages a softer internal dialogue – Teaches patience, humility, and trust

The True Meaning of Matcha: History, Culture, and the Healing Ritual In this special longform episode, you’ll discover the deep, often untold story behind matcha — where it really comes from, what it really means, and why it matters. If you’ve ever felt peace, clarity, or healing from a cup of matcha, this episode is your invitation to go deeper. You’ll learn how matcha originated with Zen Buddhist monks, how it became a sacred part of Japanese tea ceremony, and how its quiet power has been passed down through generations — including in my own family. I share personal stories, cultural context, and the wisdom that’s been kept alive through ritual and respect. This isn’t just about tea. It’s about reclaiming origins, honoring heritage, and asking thoughtful questions about wellness, appropriation, and integrity. You’ll walk away with a richer understanding of matcha, and hopefully, a new lens for how you approach your own healing practices. This episode is for anyone who values culture, intention, and truth. It’s for those who want to move beyond the trend and toward something deeper. Thank you for listening xx Candice + Matcha Code: https://itoen.com/products/matcha-love-organic?ref=CANDICE15

In today’s deeply polarizing society, we’ve become too comfortable with whitewashing—rewriting culture, truth, and identity to fit a more convenient narrative. We’re constantly told by con artists, influencers, and marketers that certain things are "normal," when in reality, they’re anything but. In this episode of the Wabi Sabi podcast, I felt it was necessary to draw a firm line—to call out where we’ve compromised and where we’ve allowed culture to be diluted. I use Matcha as one clear example. If I don’t uphold the values of my own heritage—publicly and with conviction—I wouldn’t be doing my job as a journalist. This episode is about reclaiming your roots. It’s about learning from where you came from, understanding why that matters, and how honoring those truths can actually improve your life. These are free tools and reminders that anyone can use—anytime. And if you’re feeling stuck, that’s okay. You’re not behind. You already hold the keys to unlock your next chapter. Let’s get into it.

This episode is for you — the one who’s quietly rebuilding, starting over, or holding it together when no one sees the effort. If you’ve been feeling stuck, overlooked, or unsure of what’s next… take a breath. You’re not alone. You’re doing better than you think. You’ve survived things most people don’t even know about. And no matter where you are on your path — you are allowed to begin again. This week, we’re talking about the real, unfiltered lessons that come with growth, reinvention, and protecting your peace. It’s a reminder that even in the messiest moments, there’s beauty. Even when it’s quiet, you’re still making progress. You deserve to feel grounded, strong, and proud of how far you’ve come. Let this episode be a soft place to land.

Welcome back to the Wabi Sabi podcast. Today, we honor the life and legacy of Pope Francis — a true bridge builder, a humble servant, and a radiant light in a time when the world often feels broken. In the spirit of kintsugi — the Japanese art of repairing what is broken with gold — we’ll reflect on how hope, healing, and compassion still shine through our fractures. Pope Francis taught us that even in our most fragile moments, there is beauty, unity, and the chance to begin again. Let’s take this time together to remember his example, and to rediscover the light that still lives within all of us.

Let’s be real—life falls apart sometimes. But here’s the good news: in Japan, we don’t toss the broken stuff—we gold it. This week on Wabi Sabi, I’m diving into the art of kintsugi and how those so-called “cracks” in your life can actually lead you to your ikigai—your purpose, your why, your get-out-of-bed-and-make-matcha energy. We’ll talk breakups, burnout, identity shifts, and how feeling “off” can actually be the beginning of something beautiful. It’s not about having it all together—it’s about loving your flaws, laughing at the mess, and finding your path anyway. This is your permission slip to be a little broken, a little fabulous, and a lot more you.

Hey friend, I know I've been a bit MIA from the pod these past few weeks, and I truly appreciate your patience. Life has its seasons, and sometimes we walk through chapters that aren’t ready to be shared—yet. What I can say is this: we’re all on our own unique path, and you never really know what someone else is going through. That’s why it’s more important than ever to lead with compassion. Everyone—everyone—is doing their best with what they have. When we start from that belief, we shift the way we see the world. We soften. We open. We allow more grace in. Today we will also be doing just a round up of recent events and little notes that you've all sent my way... Today’s episode is a gentle reminder to pause. To take care of yourself. To give back to your community, even in small, quiet ways. To rest. To breathe. To do the little things that bring you peace. As one of my favorite monks once told me in Japan: "Bochi bochi ganbatte." Step by step, do your best. We’ll also explore some perspectives from the Kintsugi documentary—how we mend, how we shift, and how we prepare for change in this ever-evolving world. And always remember: Wabi Sabi is about embracing the beauty in imperfection. Life isn’t meant to be polished. It’s meant to be real. So don’t stress too much. You’re doing better than you think. Let’s begin.

Welcome to this episode of the Wabi Sabi podcast! Today, we dive deep into the powerful and inspiring reviews you've shared with us about what you took away from the Kintsugi documentary. Your feedback has been nothing short of amazing, and I can't wait to reflect on it with you. Have you ever felt like giving up on your dreams? I know I have. In today's episode, I’ll be sharing some personal insights on how I’ve shifted my perspective, shaped my future, and kept pushing forward—even when there was no immediate reward and when others doubted me. These are not easy stories to share, especially when faced with negative comments or criticism—because yes, it happens. But through it all, I've learned one crucial thing: the moment an artist stops pursuing their dream is the moment that dream dies. I’m here to remind you to keep going, no matter what. Thank you for listening and if you love the show, don’t forget to leave us a five-star review to help keep this free, public service podcast alive. xx Candice

Today, we’re diving deep into the timeless philosophy of Kakugo—resolution, determination, and the clarity of purpose in our lives. Kakugo is about setting intentions and committing fully to them, much like the monks high in the mountains who dedicate themselves to a life of service, simplicity, and profound mindfulness. In today’s episode, we’ll explore how we can learn from those who have walked the path before us—from the wisdom of these monks to the lessons hidden in the unfiltered messages of children. We’ll also take a closer look at the Kintsugi documentary, which captures the essence of Japanese spirit, and how it all ties back to the powerful practice of Kintsugi. If you’ve seen Kintsugi, the limited series I created that aired on NHK World, you’ll recognize how the art of golden repair teaches us that our brokenness, our flaws, and our scars aren’t just things to hide, but something to embrace. They become the gold that strengthens us, propels us forward, and makes us whole again. In a world where so many of us are battling feelings of anxiety and hopelessness, these ancient practices offer us the tools we need to mend, to grow, and to find peace. How can we be better individuals, and better people, by applying these lessons from the past to our everyday lives in the present? Let’s talk about how we can incorporate these teachings into our daily practice and open our hearts to the beautiful brokenness of being human. Thank you for joining me. Let’s explore this journey of healing, transformation, and discovering your own path to resilience. x ck

In Japanese culture, there are many subtle practices that help cultivate humility, kindness, love, and softness, even in the midst of a turbulent world. Japan, having endured natural disasters and war, serves as a living work of art. The philosophy of Kintsugi teaches us that the cracks—whether from atomic bombs, earthquakes, or tsunamis—represent both pain and resilience. The Japanese people embody gaman, the ability to endure and persevere. We learn to rise, rebuild, and heal. In this episode, I’m excited to share insights from my documentary Kintsugi, and some valuable lessons we’ve learned along the way to help you mend, heal, and restore your own life. Thank you for listening. If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider leaving a five-star review and sharing it with a friend. With love, Candice

Hi friends! Today I want to share a little about Kintsugi—the ancient Japanese art of golden repair—and how it can transform our pain into something meaningful. In my docu-series, Kintsugi, we dive into this philosophy as I travel through Japan, tracing the footsteps of my grandfather and discovering how brokenness, much like the cracks in pottery, can be healed and made even more beautiful. It’s about embracing your past, finding strength in what you’ve been through, and letting the light of love and hope guide you forward. In a world that feels heavy, Kintsugi reminds us that we can turn our struggles into superpowers. If you’re ready for a deep dive into this philosophy, check out the Kintsugi docu-series on YouTube, and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast for more reflections on finding peace, healing, and beauty in our lives. Please join me every Friday in February for a new episode—link in the description! Thank you for being here. x Candice Watch Kintsugi on YouTube.com/CandiceKumai (4 episodes total) originally released on NHK World Shop Kintsugi Wellness the best-selling book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0062669850/?ref=exp_influencer-0c39ba4e_lv_dp_vv_d

In this Wabi Sabi episode, I dive into the three traits that make people truly magnetic—not in a superficial way, but on a deeper, more meaningful level. Listen to hear more - thank you for listening xx ck

In this episode, I’ll share how to navigate the next four years with peace and resilience. We’ll explore the beauty of Japanese homes and how they inspire creating more space—both physically and mentally—in our lives. I’ll talk about why it's essential to stop paying attention to the chaos of "Idiocracy" and focus on what truly matters. Learn the power of giving yourself more time, making self-care a priority, and investing in your well-being. I’ll discuss the importance of setting boundaries and how they help create a peaceful, balanced life. Meditation and deep breathing are key tools for creating space, managing stress and staying grounded—I'll guide you through these practices. Remember to stay in your own lane—you don’t need to do what others are doing, and that’s perfectly okay. Finally, I’ll remind you to stay curious and kind, no matter how others may behave around you. Let’s dive in and create more peace and resilience together xx thank you for listening xx Candice

Welcome to another episode of Wabi Sabi where we explore the beauty of imperfection and the power of resilience. What can you do to truly influence? What are you doing in times of inevitable natural disaster? How can you better help others? I'm here to share my insights on how we can not only bounce back from life’s challenges but inspire others to do the same. Tune in as we talk about finding strength, staying authentic, and making a real impact. Thank you for listening & please write a five star review for this pod + share with a friend xx Candice 

Embracing Wabi-Sabi: The Philosophy of Imperfect Growth Wabi-sabi is more than just a concept—it's a powerful approach to personal development. At its core, it's about accepting imperfection and finding beauty in life's natural progression. This philosophy teaches us to: Embrace our unique journey Stop comparing ourselves to others Find contentment in the present moment Accept life with all its challenges Key Areas of Personal Transformation 1. Nutrition and Wellness Mindful Eating: Focus on whole, natural foods. Eliminate Processed Foods: Remove items that don't serve your health. Holistic Approach: Consider nutrition from all five wellness zones. 2. Self-Improvement Strategies Self-Discovery: Identify your true passions and strengths. Goal Setting: Create realistic, achievable objectives. Skill Building: Continuously learn and grow. Resilience: Develop the courage to overcome obstacles. Practical Steps for Personal Growth Embrace Change Change is inevitable and essential for growth. As someone who has navigated significant personal transformations, I've learned that: Resilience comes from accepting and adapting to life's challenges. Self-belief is your most powerful tool. Every setback is an opportunity for growth. The Wabi-Sabi Mindset Remember, true wellness isn't about perfection. It's about: Accepting yourself completely. Finding beauty in your journey. Staying true to your authentic self. Continuous, gentle self-improvement. Final Thoughts This is your year to shine from the inside out. Embrace your imperfections, celebrate your unique journey, and commit to becoming the best version of yourself. Thank you for listening, and here's to your true health journey in 2025! Don't forget to subscribe and share with friends. xo Candice

In 2025 we want to see and feel positive changes: In 2024, life didn’t always go as planned. We faced challenges, missed out on some of the things we wanted, and even the price of eggs skyrocketed. But here’s the silver lining: there are 10 small, meaningful actions you can take every day that cost nothing and can create a powerful shift in your mindset. These tips will help you free your time, open your heart, and find a little more peace in your life. Tune in to this special podcast episode for 2025, where I’ll guide you through 10 simple ways to improve your heart, mind, and soul. Together, let’s step into the new year feeling lighter, brighter, and ready to embrace all that’s ahead. Take a deep breath, hit play, and let’s start this journey together. Thank you for listening & please leave a 5 star review xx xx, Candice