Dr. Adam Acar is a native of Turkey who moved to Japan from the United States 15 years ago. He has since worked as a professor and in the education, innovation, and marketing sphere. Topics covered in this episode include: -why Japanese women rank among the lowest worldwide in self-esteem, and what it means -why konbin are so innovative, where there’s room for change, and why trust is such a valuable force in Japan -why sales tactics and incentives successful in other countries may not be effective in Japan -how SNS and SEO functions differently in the Japanese market -the drain of zombie companies on the Japanese economy Adam Acar's Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-acar-phd-9b8b871b/ Youtube Channel on Innovation and Digital Marketing: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChQ7Gx5T-MADuIDO3mAEwXQ/videos Youtube Channel on Samurai and Zen Culture: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC30GfLisrnQHeogVmdgcVTw/videos Want to support the podcast? Check the podcast's ko-fi page to help keep me well-caffeinated: https://ko-fi.com/businesssuccessjapan Be sure to follow or subscribe for more Japanese language and cultural insights. And if you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review so that other people can find it as well. And of course, if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions for future episodes, please email me at businesssuccessjapan@gmail.com. I'd love to hear from you! Leave me a voice message here: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message

Heidi Karino is a native of the UK who has just returned to her home country after spending twenty-four formative years living and working in Japan. She currently runs her own business as a Japanese to English translator specializing in transcreation for content marketing, where she works with clients to ensure that their Japanese content really resonates with their English-speaking customers. Topics discussed in today's interview include: -transcreation, how it differs from translation, and what makes it valuable -strategically using social media to educate and find clients, as well as cultivate a community of professionals -differences between freelance and in-house translation work Heidi's Links:  LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/heidikarino Website (Japanese): www.kotonohabloom.com Related Episodes:  Gained in Translation: Interpreting Design in Japan and Beyond with David Tonge: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Gained-in-Translation-Interpreting-Design-in-Japan-and-Beyond-with-David-Tonge-e117ji8 Learning the Dance of Effective Cross-Cultural Communication in Japan with Kevin Crowell: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Learning-the-Dance-of-Effective-Cross-Cultural-Communication-in-Japan-with-Kevin-Crowell-e153r78 The Power of Self-Reflection, Storytelling, and Finding Authentic Balance in Japan with Tim Sullivan: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/The-Power-of-Self-Reflection--Storytelling--and-Finding-Authentic-Balance-in-Japan-with-Tim-Sullivan-eul6jr Mentioned in the Episode:  Blog on Transcreation: https://www.transcreationexperts.com/ Hemingway App: https://hemingwayapp.com/ Want to support the podcast? Check the podcast's ko-fi page to help keep me well-caffeinated: https://ko-fi.com/businesssuccessjapan Be sure to follow or subscribe for more Japanese language and cultural insights. And if you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review so that other people can find it as well. And of course, if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions for future episodes, please email me at businesssuccessjapan@gmail.com. I'd love to hear from you! Leave me a voice message here: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message

Jennifer Shinkai is a British born, Oxford educated, Tokyo based Ikigai and Inclusion facilitator and coach. She is also the host of the Ikigai with Jennifer Shinkai podcast, the founder of the free online community for business owners “Make March Matter,” and the author and illustrator of the book “Can Giraffes Swim?” Topics covered in today's episode include:  -why cultural scales and dimensions, while useful, aren’t enough to find true connection and success in Japan -why everyone is at least partially right, and why that’s important -addressing authenticity vs. competency challenges -why ikigai may not be what you think it is -how to make effective rules in mixed-culture teams Jennifer's Links:  Website: https://jennifershinkai.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifershinkaicoach/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifershinkai/ Ikigai with Jennifer Shinkai Podcast: https://ikigai-with-jennifer-shinkai.captivate.fm/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/ Related Episodes:  On Japanese Management, Servant Leadership, and Rice Paper Ceilings with Rochelle Kopp: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/On-Japanese-Management--Servant-Leadership--and-Rice-Paper-Ceilings-with-Rochelle-Kopp-e1fkmqd Why You Need a Global Mindset to Succeed in Japan with Rie Eichmann: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Why-You-Need-a-Global-Mindset-to-Succeed-in-Japan-with-Rie-Eichmann-e16qlee On Podcasting, Entrepreneurship, and Making a Life in Japan with Jayne Nakata: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/On-Podcasting--Entrepreneurship--and-Making-a-Life-in-Japan-with-Jayne-Nakata-e1ggdel Recommended Books and Podcasts:  The Culture Map (Erin Meyer): https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22085568-the-culture-map?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=YuYrxmBkX4&rank=1 Global Dexterity (Andy Molinsky): https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15824353-global-dexterity?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=d3kuogsfUs&rank=1 The Ikigai Podcast (Nick Kemp - Ikigai Tribe): https://podcasts.apple.com/jp/podcast/the-ikigai-podcast/id1488566034 Want to support the podcast? Check the podcast's ko-fi page to help keep me well-caffeinated: https://ko-fi.com/businesssuccessjapan Be sure to follow or subscribe for more Japanese language and cultural insights. And if you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review so that other people can find it as well. And of course, if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions for future episodes, please email me at businesssuccessjapan@gmail.com. I'd love to hear from you! Leave me a voice message here: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message

Jayne Nakata is the creator of PodLauch with Jayne, a company that helps podcasters around the world to launch and run their own show. She is also the award winning host of the #1 podcast for international women living in Japan: Transformations with Jayne.  Originally from New Zealand, Jayne has lived in Fukushima Prefecture, Japan for nearly 20 years. Because of this, she has a wealth of experience for anyone hoping to live, work, start a business, or raise a family in Japan. Additional topics covered in today's episode include: -working to build a business to suit the lifestyle she wanted as a mother -successfully creating and sustaining a remote team -why dressing professionally in Japan can be a challenge for foreigners, especially women Jayne's Links:  PodLaunch with Jayne: https://www.jaynenakata.com/podcastconsulting Transformations with Jayne podcast: https://transformationswithjayne.captivate.fm/ Jandals in Japan podcast:  https://www.jandalsinjapan.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/transformationswithjayne/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/transformationswithjayne/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/podlaunch-with-jayne Related Episodes: Tackling Law, Entrepreneurship, and a Purposeful Life in Japan with Catherine O'Connell: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Tackling-Law--Entrepreneurship--and-a-Purposeful-Life-in-Japan-with-Catherine-OConnell-e19j77p Entrepreneurship and Content Creation as a Digital Nomad in Japan with Cindy Bissig: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Entrepreneurship-and-Content-Creation-as-a-Digital-Nomad-in-Japan-with-Cindy-Bissig-e13rdl0 Setting Yourself Up to Thrive in Japan with Katheryn Gronauer: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Setting-Yourself-Up-to-Thrive-in-Japan-with-Katheryn-Gronauer-er360q Want to support the podcast? Check the podcast's ko-fi page to help keep me well-caffeinated: https://ko-fi.com/businesssuccessjapan Be sure to follow or subscribe for more Japanese language and cultural insights. And if you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review so that other people can find it as well. And of course, if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions for future episodes, please email me at businesssuccessjapan@gmail.com. I'd love to hear from you! Leave me a voice message here: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message

Rochelle Kopp is the founder and managing principal of Japan Intercultural Consulting, an international training and consulting firm focused on Japanese business. Her area of expertise is Japanese culture and business practices, particularly Japanese communication style and organizational behavior and decision-making in Japanese firms. She’s also a prolific writer and actively posts much of her practical and insightful work on LinkedIn. Just a few topics covered in today's conversation include: -Servant leadership and why it could be a good fit in a Japanese business context. -What is the rice paper ceiling, and what should non-Japanese people do when they encounter it? -How HR traditionally functions in Japan, why, and how it should change. -An example of how to effectively deepen work relationships with Japanese counterparts without meeting in-person. Rochelle's links:  Japan Intercultural Consulting: https://japanintercultural.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/JapanIntercult Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rochellekopp/ Related Episodes: Learning the Dance of Effective Cross-Cultural Communication in Japan with Kevin Crowell: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Learning-the-Dance-of-Effective-Cross-Cultural-Communication-in-Japan-with-Kevin-Crowell-e153r78 Building Lasting Relationships Amidst the Covid-19 Digital Transformation in Japan with Will Jasprizza: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Building-Lasting-Relationships-Amidst-the-Covid-19-Digital-Transformation-in-Japan-with-Will-Jasprizza-e12dldf Evolving Trends in Japanese Subsidiary Companies and the Lasting Power of Monozukuri with Francis Pacheco: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Evolving-Trends-in-Japanese-Subsidiary-Companies-and-the-Lasting-Power-of-Monozukuri-with-Francis-Pacheco-e14ne9c Want to support the podcast? Check the podcast's ko-fi page to help keep me well-caffeinated and making content: https://ko-fi.com/businesssuccessjapan Be sure to follow or subscribe for more Japanese language and cultural insights. And if you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review so that other people can find it as well. And of course, if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions for future episodes, please email me at businesssuccessjapan@gmail.com. I'd love to hear from you! Leave me a voice message here: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message

In today’s episode of the Business Success Podcast, I chat with Chiara Terzuolo. Chiara is a polyglot, musician, narrator, writer, editor, and actor who has been living and working creatively in Tokyo since 2011. She has successfully established herself as an independent freelancer who has amassed a unique portfolio-style career that is well off the beaten path for the stereotypical office worker. Just a few topics covered in today’s conversation include: -Exploring and building income streams on the side to use as a springboard before leaving full-time employment. -Focusing on providing quality to establish a robust network in Japan. -Why Japanese language skills aren’t necessary to do entertainment work in Japan, but you should learn it anyway. -How life as a vegan in Japan is changing. Chiara's Links: Website: https://www.museandink.co/ Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/chiara.tokyo LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terzuolochiara/ Related Episodes: Entrepreneurship and Content Creation as a Digital Nomad in Japan with Cindy Bissig: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Entrepreneurship-and-Content-Creation-as-a-Digital-Nomad-in-Japan-with-Cindy-Bissig-e13rdl0 Communicating Your Value in the Japanese Job Market with Sam Thornton: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Communicating-Your-Value-in-the-Japanese-Job-Market-with-Sam-Thornton-ervoi9 Navigating Gender, Race, and Culture in the Japanese Workplace with Jessica Kennett Cork: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Navigating-Gender--Race--and-Culture-in-the-Japanese-Workplace-with-Jessica-Kennett-Cork-enu4ro Want to support the podcast? Check the podcast's ko-fi page to help keep me well-caffeinated and making content: https://ko-fi.com/businesssuccessjapan Be sure to follow or subscribe for more Japanese language and cultural insights. And if you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review so that other people can find it as well. And of course, if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions for future episodes, please email me at businesssuccessjapan@gmail.com. I'd love to hear from you! Leave me a voice message here: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message

Menya Hinga is an American who immigrated to Japan over a decade ago. He now works as a health and performance coach to high-performers who are struggling to manage stress and weight gain, learn to eat better, move more and stress less in order to transform their health and performance. Some topics covered in this episode include the importance of focusing on providing value as a content creator, the power of small shifts in making big changes, why time management is the key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and why things will likely take longer than you expect when starting a business in Japan. Today's language:  こまかい ko-ma-ka-i kanji: 細かい meaning: small, fine, trivial, careful Menya's links:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/menyahinga/ Website: www.menyahinga.com  Community: https://holisticfitness.mn.co/ Related Episodes: Tackling Law, Entrepreneurship, and a Purposeful Life in Japan with Catherine O'Connell: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Tackling-Law--Entrepreneurship--and-a-Purposeful-Life-in-Japan-with-Catherine-OConnell-e19j77p Entrepreneurship and Content Creation as a Digital Nomad in Japan with Cindy Bissig: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Entrepreneurship-and-Content-Creation-as-a-Digital-Nomad-in-Japan-with-Cindy-Bissig-e13rdl0 Setting Yourself Up to Thrive in Japan with Katheryn Gronauer: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Setting-Yourself-Up-to-Thrive-in-Japan-with-Katheryn-Gronauer-er360q Want to support the podcast? Check the podcast's ko-fi page to help keep me well-caffeinated and making content: https://ko-fi.com/businesssuccessjapan Be sure to follow or subscribe for more Japanese language and cultural insights. And if you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review so that other people can find it as well. And of course, if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions for future episodes, please email me at businesssuccessjapan@gmail.com. I'd love to hear from you! Leave me a voice message here: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message

Tyson Batino is a native of Hawaii who came to Japan as an English teacher, worked in human resources, and ultimately founded three companies in Japan. He now coaches founders who want to scale their businesses. Some topics covered in today's interview include investing in relationships with mentors, the importance of being clear on what you want in order to be successful in any field, and the importance of understanding the sales cycle of your prospective clients before launching into business. Today's Language:  せんぱい se-n-pa-i kanji: 先輩 meaning: senior (at work or school), elder, superior Tyson's Links:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tysonbatino/ coaching business: www.scalingyourcompany.com Japanese online lessons: www.japanswitch.com Related Episodes:  Exploring and Thriving in the Changing World of Startups in Japan with Fuminori Gunji: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Exploring-and-Thriving-in-the-Changing-World-of-Startups-in-Japan-with-Fuminori-Gunji-e176n4q Tackling Law, Entrepreneurship, and a Purposeful Life in Japan with Catherine O'Connell: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Tackling-Law--Entrepreneurship--and-a-Purposeful-Life-in-Japan-with-Catherine-OConnell-e19j77p How to Make it Big in Japan: Navigating Culture, Burnout, and Entrepreneurship with Misha Yurchenko: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/How-to-Make-it-Big-in-Japan-Navigating-Culture--Burnout--and-Entrepreneurship-with-Misha-Yurchenko-et1045 Want to support the podcast? Check the podcast's ko-fi page to help keep me well-caffeinated and making content: https://ko-fi.com/businesssuccessjapan Be sure to follow or subscribe for more Japanese language and cultural insights. And if you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review so that other people can find it as well. And of course, if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions for future episodes, please email me at businesssuccessjapan@gmail.com. I'd love to hear from you! Leave me a voice message here: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message

Rosa Aldridge is an American who has had her entire professional career in Japan, and she is passionate about creating sustainable culture practices while promoting Japanese hospitality to the world. She is currently working in an environment that deals with event planning and promoting international understanding, and she has successfully navigated job searching in Japan and has held a variety of positions through various companies and institutions in Japan. Some topics discussed in today's conversation include how to effectively find (the right) jobs in Japan, taking advantage of unique opportunities through positioning yourself as a cultural bridge, and how to best navigate the resources available if you find yourself in a workplace that isn't for you. Today's Language:  (ぎゃく)きゅうじん (gya-ku) kyu-u-ji-n meaning: (reverse) recruiting, job offer kanji: (逆)求人 Rosa's Links:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosa-aldridge/ 逆求人 website: https://www.careertrek.com/ Related Episodes:  Communicating Your Value in the Japanese Job Market with Sam Thornton: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Communicating-Your-Value-in-the-Japanese-Job-Market-with-Sam-Thornton-ervoi9 Learning the Dance of Effective Cross-Cultural Communication in Japan with Kevin Crowell: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Learning-the-Dance-of-Effective-Cross-Cultural-Communication-in-Japan-with-Kevin-Crowell-e153r78 Surviving the Salaryman Lifestyle in Japan with Michael Howard Thuresson: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Surviving-the-Salaryman-Lifestyle-in-Japan-with-Michael-Howard-Thuresson-esfn4d Want to support the podcast? Check the podcast's ko-fi page to help keep me well-caffeinated and making content: https://ko-fi.com/businesssuccessjapan Be sure to follow or subscribe for more Japanese language and cultural insights. And if you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review so that other people can find it as well. And of course, if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions for future episodes, please email me at businesssuccessjapan@gmail.com. I'd love to hear from you! Leave me a voice message here: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message

Catherine O’Connell is a bilingual, in house legal counsel-experienced lawyer operating a boutique law firm in Tokyo. She is a lawyerpreneur who provides legal counsel solutions for a wide range of clients, big and small. She also hosts her own podcast, "Lawyer on Air," has a wide range of experiences, certifications, and awards in and outside of Japan. Just a few of the topics discussed in today’s conversation include some big-picture differences between law in Japan versus many western countries, what it takes to start a business and find success as an entrepreneur in Japan, as well as why it’s so important to cultivate curiosity and how to maintain it no matter how long you stay. Today's Language:  べんごし be-n-go-shi meaning: lawyer, attorney kanji: 弁護士 Catherine's Links:  Website: https://www.catherineoconnelllaw.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oconnellcatherine/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/catherineoconnelllaw/ Twitter: @oconnelllawyer Instagram: @lawyeronair Related Episodes:  Learning the Dance of Effective Cross-Cultural Communication in Japan with Kevin Crowell: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Learning-the-Dance-of-Effective-Cross-Cultural-Communication-in-Japan-with-Kevin-Crowell-e153r78 The Power of Self-Reflection, Storytelling, and Finding Authentic Balance in Japan with Tim Sullivan: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/The-Power-of-Self-Reflection--Storytelling--and-Finding-Authentic-Balance-in-Japan-with-Tim-Sullivan-eul6jr Building Lasting Relationships Amidst the Covid-19 Digital Transformation in Japan with Will Jasprizza: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Building-Lasting-Relationships-Amidst-the-Covid-19-Digital-Transformation-in-Japan-with-Will-Jasprizza-e12dldf Want to support the podcast? Check the podcast's ko-fi page to help keep me well-caffeinated: https://ko-fi.com/businesssuccessjapan Be sure to follow or subscribe for more Japanese language and cultural insights. And if you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review so that other people can find it as well. And of course, if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions for future episodes, please email me at businesssuccessjapan@gmail.com. I'd love to hear from you! Leave me a voice message here: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message

Today's guest Richard Katz has worked for decades as a journalist working on the Japanese economy, and he has written two books on Japan: "The System That Soured" and "Japanese Phoenix." He is now working on a third, about how to nurture a new generation of high-growth, innovative small and medium enterprises in Japan. He has published various op-eds and essays in publications such as "Foreign Affairs," The "Financial Times," Toyo Keizai, and the "Wall Street Journal Asia." A few of the topics covered in today's conversation include the dormant entrepreneurship in Japan, the broken promises made to working women, and why structural issues around finance in Japan may be one of its greatest hindrances to growth. Today's Japanese:  しかたがない shi-ka-ta ga na-i Meaning: “there’s nothing that can be done,” “there’s no use,”  “it can’t be helped” Richard's Links:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-katz-937308204/ Blog: https://richardkatz.substack.com/welcome Entrepreneurial Revival In Japan: A False Spring or Real Opportunity? (UC San Diego School of Global Policy and Strategy): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Xo1LYV860g Related Episodes:  Exploring and Thriving in the Changing World of Startups in Japan with Fuminori Gunji:  Evolving Trends in Japanese Subsidiary Companies and the Lasting Power of Monozukuri with Francis Pacheco: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Evolving-Trends-in-Japanese-Subsidiary-Companies-and-the-Lasting-Power-of-Monozukuri-with-Francis-Pacheco-e14ne9c Finding Success in Japanese Universities, Startups, and Beyond with Austin Zeng: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Finding-Success-in-Japanese-Universities--Startups--and-Beyond-with-Austin-Zeng-e1687sh Further Reading:  Why Nobody Invests in Japan: https://www.foreignaffairs.com/guest-pass/redeem/5gAlISIPRr8 Old corporate champions can’t save Japan: https://www.eastasiaforum.org/2021/05/30/old-corporate-champions-cant-save-japan/ Japan’s Looming Climate Showdown: https://www.foreignaffairs.com/guest-pass/redeem/rdp-a4Eil74 An Election Mandate For Growth and Redistribution: https://toyokeizai.net/articles/-/464660 Want to support the podcast? Check the podcast's ko-fi page to help keep me well-caffeinated: https://ko-fi.com/businesssuccessjapan Be sure to follow or subscribe for more Japanese language and cultural insights. And if you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review so that other people can find it as well. And of course, if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions for future episodes, please email me at businesssuccessjapan@gmail.com. I'd love to hear from you! Leave me a voice message here: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message

In today's episode, I'm chatting with Colin Savage. Colin is a globally-minded, locally-focused leader with over 20 years' experience with Japan, including eight years in-country. He specializes in business development, communications and marketing, digital development, leadership, research, and strategy. Some topics covered in today's conversation include the proper use and function of powerpoint presentations in a Japanese context, dealing with the phenomenon of not being heard when speaking Japanese as a foreigner, and ways to reconsider and cope with bureaucracy in Japan. Today's Japanese: ことわざ ko-to-wa-za kanji: 諺 meaning: proverb, a saying Colin's Links:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colinjsavage/ His book, 金沢弁の本 - The Dialect of Kanazawa: https://www.lulu.com/search?adult_audience_rating=00&contributor=Colin+James+B+Savage&page=1&pageSize=10 (article about the book: https://kanazawa.keizai.biz/headline/767/) Related Episodes:  Learning the Dance of Effective Cross-Cultural Communication in Japan with Kevin Crowell: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Learning-the-Dance-of-Effective-Cross-Cultural-Communication-in-Japan-with-Kevin-Crowell-e153r78 The Power of Self-Reflection, Storytelling, and Finding Authentic Balance in Japan with Tim Sullivan: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/The-Power-of-Self-Reflection--Storytelling--and-Finding-Authentic-Balance-in-Japan-with-Tim-Sullivan-eul6jr On Being an Effective Communicator in Japan with Anthony Griffin: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/On-Being-an-Effective-Communicator-in-Japan-with-Anthony-Griffin-el1v9m Want to support the podcast? Check the podcast's ko-fi page to help keep me well-caffeinated: https://ko-fi.com/businesssuccessjapan Be sure to follow or subscribe for more Japanese language and cultural insights. And if you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review so that other people can find it as well. And of course, if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions for future episodes, please email me at businesssuccessjapan@gmail.com. I'd love to hear from you! Leave me a voice message here: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message

In today's episode, I'm chatting with Fuminori Gunji, CEO of TokyoMate. Fuminori Gunji was a founding team member of Softbank Robotics from 2013 to 2016, leading Softbank's domestic B2B businesses and overseas expansion efforts. In 2017, Fuminori Gunji headed business development for MakeLeaps. By the end of 2018, Gunji had successfully closed MakeLeaps’ M&A deal with Ricoh and went on to lead MakeLeaps in 2019 as COO. In June of 2021, Fuminori Gunji accepted the role of chief executive officer of TokyoMate, a Tokyo-based Office-as-a-Service startup providing virtual bilingual assistants, virtual mailboxes, virtual office addresses, and virtual bilingual receptionists--with the mission of “making it easier to live, work, and do business in Japan.” Topics we cover today include the shifting views of startups in Japan, structural issues that have held back innovation in Japan (and what may be changing), as well as how a few simple perspective changes can make you a more effective communicator in Japan. Today's Japanese:  かおがひろい ka-o ga hi-ro-i 顔が広い Meaning: well-known, having diverse set of connections, well-connected Fuminori's Links:  TokyoMate Blog: https://tokyomate.jp/blog TokyoMate Website: https://tokyomate.jp/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fuminori-gunji-38a22589/ Related Episodes:  Finding Success in Japanese Universities, Startups, and Beyond with Austin Zeng: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Finding-Success-in-Japanese-Universities--Startups--and-Beyond-with-Austin-Zeng-e1687sh Why You Should Found Your Startup in Kobe with Masanori Nagamine: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Why-You-Should-Found-Your-Startup-in-Kobe-with-Masanori-Nagamine-eotr5u How to Make it Big in Japan: Navigating Culture, Burnout, and Entrepreneurship with Misha Yurchenko: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/How-to-Make-it-Big-in-Japan-Navigating-Culture--Burnout--and-Entrepreneurship-with-Misha-Yurchenko-et1045 Additional Reading: https://tokyomate.jp/blog/guide-to-japans-startup-ecosystem Japan as 196th (article by Richard Katz): https://toyokeizai.net/articles/-/445356 Want to support the podcast? Check the podcast's ko-fi page to help keep me well-caffeinated: https://ko-fi.com/businesssuccessjapan Be sure to follow or subscribe for more Japanese language and cultural insights. And if you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review so that other people can find it as well. And of course, if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions for future episodes, please email me at businesssuccessjapan@gmail.com. I'd love to hear from you! Leave me a voice message here: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message

In today's episode, I'm chatting with Rie Eichmann, a global skills and mindset coach, intercultural trainer and consultant who is passionate about teaching “a global mindset” to professionals and the next generation to give them the confidence and skills for success in an increasingly-globalized world. While Rie is a native of Japan, she is currently based in Brisbane, Australia, and has years of experience living and working abroad in the UK, Taiwan, Thailand, and the United States. Some topics we discover in today's conversation include developing open-mindedness as a skill, the importance of understanding how humor works in your target culture and language, and why it's essential to cultivate a mindset that supports your language learning. Today's Japanese:  うちそと u-chi so-to kanji: 内外 meaning: inside/outside, "in-group/out-group" Rie's Links:  Website: http://www.culturaltrainingconsultancy.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rieeichmann/ Instagram: @rie.eich Twitter: @EichmannRie Clubhouse: @rie.eich Bio Link (Japanese): https://www.globaliseyourself.com/rie-eichmann Podcast: https://anchor.fm/rie-eichmann Related Episodes:  The Power of Self-Reflection, Storytelling, and Finding Authentic Balance in Japan with Tim Sullivan: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/The-Power-of-Self-Reflection--Storytelling--and-Finding-Authentic-Balance-in-Japan-with-Tim-Sullivan-eul6jr Preventing Cross-Cultural Miscommunication and Leadership as Parenting with Chie Schuller: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Preventing-Cross-Cultural-Miscommunication-and-Leadership-as-Parenting-with-Chie-Schuller-eq9l8r Learning the Dance of Effective Cross-Cultural Communication in Japan with Kevin Crowell: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Learning-the-Dance-of-Effective-Cross-Cultural-Communication-in-Japan-with-Kevin-Crowell-e153r78 Want to support the podcast? Check the podcast's ko-fi page to help keep me well-caffeinated: https://ko-fi.com/businesssuccessjapan Be sure to follow or subscribe for more Japanese language and cultural insights. And if you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review so that other people can find it as well. And of course, if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions for future episodes, please email me at businesssuccessjapan@gmail.com. I'd love to hear from you! Leave me a voice message here: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message

In today's episode, I’m sharing a conversation with Austin Zeng, a native of Singapore who first came to Japan on the MEXT scholarship, and is now actively involved in the startup space there. He’s a developer, translator and interpreter, blogger, and even participates in a Japanese think tank. Some topics covered in today's episode include the ways in which the Japanese government is trying (and in some ways failing) to support foreign students who want to work in Japan, the common pitfalls that foreign students face in Japan, as well as thoughts on balancing integration with maintaining the unique value foreign workers have to offer the country. Today's Japanese: term: とくてい　ぎのう（ビザ） to-ku-te-i gi-no-u (bi-za) kanji: 特定　技能（ビザ） meaning: special/designated skill (visa) Austin's Links:  Blog: https://austin-zeng.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-zeng-120a4563/ MEXT Scholars Association official website: https://mextsa.org/ MEXT Scholars Association Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mextscholars Related Episodes:  How to Make it Big in Japan: Navigating Culture, Burnout, and Entrepreneurship with Misha Yurchenko: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/How-to-Make-it-Big-in-Japan-Navigating-Culture--Burnout--and-Entrepreneurship-with-Misha-Yurchenko-et1045 Communicating Your Value in the Japanese Job Market with Sam Thornton: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Communicating-Your-Value-in-the-Japanese-Job-Market-with-Sam-Thornton-ervoi9 Obstacles, Trends, and Ideas for Addressing the Japanese Talent Shortage with Alan Acosta: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Obstacles--Trends--and-Ideas-for-Addressing-the-Japanese-Talent-Shortage-with-Alan-Acosta-es7iep Additional MEXT Scholarship Information: https://www.transenzjapan.com/blog/ Want to support the podcast? Check the podcast's ko-fi page to help keep me well-caffeinated: https://ko-fi.com/businesssuccessjapan Be sure to follow or subscribe for more Japanese language and cultural insights. And if you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review so that other people can find it as well. And of course, if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions for future episodes, please email me at businesssuccessjapan@gmail.com. I'd love to hear from you! Leave me a voice message here: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message

In today's episode, I’m sharing a conversation with Kevin Crowell. He is president of Asia Business Group, a company that he started nearly thirty years ago, and is the Chief Cross-Cultural Outreach Officer of the organization Pacific Tango group.  Kevin has decades of experience working in Japan and with Japanese people and companies, so be sure to listen in to learn more about his background and what he’s learned from his wide-ranging experiences with Japan. Some topics he discusses in this episode include the impact of the rotating management system in Japanese companies on their subsidiaries, how the cultural view of quality commonly causes issues for businesses moving in and out of Japan, and the hidden power of using hobbies to connect and network with Japanese people. Japanese Word:  しゅみ shu-mi kanji: 趣味 meaning: hobby Kevin's Links: Company: www.AsiaBizGroup.com Pacific Tango Group:  www.PacificTangoGroup.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevincrowell/ Hobby Page: www.UKULELEjapan.com Related Episodes:  Anil Raj on Entrepreneurship and Mentorship in Japan: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Anil-Raj-on-Entrepreneurship-and-Mentorship-in-Japan-egfc87 Managing Professional Relationships and Gaijin-Cards in Japan with Mac Salman: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Managing-Professional-Relationships-and-Gaijin-Cards-in-Japan-with-Mac-Salman-eh93ek Faye-Sensei on Culture Shock and the Power of Open-Mindedness: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Faye-Sensei-on-Culture-Shock-and-the-Power-of-Open-Mindedness-ees6v8 Want to support the podcast? Check the podcast's ko-fi page to help keep me well-caffeinated: https://ko-fi.com/businesssuccessjapan Be sure to follow or subscribe for more Japanese language and cultural insights. And if you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review so that other people can find it as well. And of course, if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions for future episodes, please email me at businesssuccessjapan@gmail.com. I'd love to hear from you! Leave me a voice message here: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message

In today's episode, I get to share a conversation with Francis Pacheco, a native of the Philippines. His work with the agency GMI POST has involved creating and publishing investment guides for Foreign Affairs Magazine of the Council on Foreign Relations in New York City and The Japan Times, which is Japan's oldest and largest English language daily newspaper. Today, he shares the importance of the concept of monzukuri in Japanese niche manufacturing today, the growing role that universities in the US have already begun to play in Japanese innovation, and the growing significance of native-run Japanese subsidiary companies in their host countries and beyond. Today's Japanese:  ものづくり mo-no-zu-ku-ri kanji: 物作り meaning: manufacturing, craftsmanship Francis' links: Company: https://www.gmipost.com/ LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/francispacheco/ Book Recommendation: Bending Adversity: Japan and the Art of Survival: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18114295-bending-adversity?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=7VZ4wyYEQL&rank=1 Related Episodes:  Obstacles, Trends, and Ideas for Addressing the Japanese Talent Shortage with Alan Acosta: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Obstacles--Trends--and-Ideas-for-Addressing-the-Japanese-Talent-Shortage-with-Alan-Acosta-es7iep Opportunities for Disruption and Collaboration in Japan and Germany with Johannes Budkiewitz: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Opportunities-for-Disruption-and-Collaboration-in-Japan-and-Germany-with-Johannes-Budkiewitz-empsit On Refugees, Diversity, and Revitalization: Making Room for Growth in a Shrinking Country with Seira Yun: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/On-Refugees--Diversity--and-Revitalization-Making-Room-for-Growth-in-a-Shrinking-Country-with-Seira-Yun-eqnlor Want to support the podcast? Check the podcast's ko-fi page to help me stay well-caffeinated enough to keep the content flowing: https://ko-fi.com/businesssuccessjapan Be sure to follow or subscribe for more Japanese language and cultural insights. And if you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review so that other people can find it as well. And of course, if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions for future episodes, please email me at businesssuccessjapan@gmail.com. I'd love to hear from you! Leave me a voice message here: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message

In today's episode, I chat with Cindy Bissig of Obsessed with Japan and the new YouTube channel, Let’s Travel and Eat. Cindy is an experienced content creator who has more than 15 years of experience in hospitality. The focus of her work lies in travel, events, food and beverage, and she is also a professional sake sommelier. Today, she will also share some of her experiences as a digital nomad in Japan, so be sure to listen in to hear more about what that looks like in Japan. Today's Language: めがたかい me ga ta-ka-i 目が高い Meaning: good taste, a discerning eye Example Usage: お目が高いですね Meaning: "You have good taste." "You have a discerning eye." Cindy's Links:  LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindy-bissig/ Obsessed with Japan: https://obsessedwithjapan.com/ https://www.facebook.com/obsessedwithjapan/ https://www.instagram.com/obsessedwithjapan/?hl=en Let's Travel and Eat: https://www.youtube.com/c/LetsTravelandEat https://www.facebook.com/letstraveland https://www.instagram.com/lets.travel.and.eat/ Sake Nomad: https://www.sakenomad.com/ https://www.instagram.com/sakenomad/ Related Episodes: Tourism and Covid-19: Effects and Opportunities in Japan with Bonson Lam: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Tourism-and-Covid-19-Effects-and-Opportunities-in-Japan-with-Bonson-Lam-ehut7k Anil Raj on Entrepreneurship and Mentorship in Japan: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Anil-Raj-on-Entrepreneurship-and-Mentorship-in-Japan-egfc87 Sébastien on Omotenashi and Special Diets in Japan: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Sbastien-on-Omotenashi-and-Special-Diets-in-Japan-ef8coh Additional Links:  Jetro: https://www.jetro.go.jp/en/ TOSBEC: https://www.startup-support.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/onestop/en/ Venture Cafe: https://venturecafetokyo.org/ Want to support the podcast? Check the podcast's ko-fi page to help keep me well-caffeinated and the episodes flowing: https://ko-fi.com/businesssuccessjapan Be sure to follow or subscribe for more Japanese language and cultural insights. And if you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review so that other people can find it as well. And of course, if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions for future episodes, please email me at businesssuccessjapan@gmail.com. I'd love to hear from you! Leave me a voice message here: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message

In today's episode, I’m chatting with Will Jasprizza, the managing director of Japan at the international business development consultancy, Intralink. Although born in Australia and educated as a lawyer, Will found himself starting a new life teaching English in Japan that eventually brought him to his current role, where he and his team works to make the expansion of foreign companies into Japan fast, easy, and cost effective. During the episode, Will discusses the importance of prioritizing positioning yourself as a reliable partner early in business relationships with Japanese companies, how business development has changed in Japan in recent years, and important changes in Japanese business practices that COVID has accelerated by years. Language:  はんこ ha-n-ko Meaning: a stamp used as a personal seal in place of a signature, commonly used for paperwork and within Japanese companies Will's Links:  Company: www.intralinkgroup.com GenkiEnglish (former company): https://genkienglish.net/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-jasprizza-4452972/ Related Episodes: Tourism and Covid-19: Effects and Opportunities in Japan with Bonson Lam: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Tourism-and-Covid-19-Effects-and-Opportunities-in-Japan-with-Bonson-Lam-ehut7k How to Make it Big in Japan: Navigating Culture, Burnout, and Entrepreneurship with Misha Yurchenko: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/How-to-Make-it-Big-in-Japan-Navigating-Culture--Burnout--and-Entrepreneurship-with-Misha-Yurchenko-et1045 Covid-19's Influence on Travel and Finding Your Place Professionally in Japan with Maya Matsuoka: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Covid-19s-Influence-on-Travel-and-Finding-Your-Place-Professionally-in-Japan-with-Maya-Matsuoka-ere7kv Additional Links:  Contact page: https://www.intralinkgroup.com/en-GB/Contact-Us Client for 10+ years: https://www.goodfellow.com (CEO Stephen Aldersley) Eight (“Japanese LinkedIn”): https://8card.net/ Sansan (parent company of Eight): https://www.sansan.com Starbucks joint venture: https://www.starbucks.co.jp/en/company.html Japan digitizes signing procedures: https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Markets/Japan-investors-swoop-for-digital-hanko-stocks Want to support the podcast? Check the podcast's ko-fi page to help keep me well-caffeinated: https://ko-fi.com/businesssuccessjapan Be sure to follow or subscribe for more Japanese language and cultural insights. And if you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review so that other people can find it as well. And of course, if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions for future episodes, please email me at businesssuccessjapan@gmail.com. I'd love to hear from you! Leave me a voice message here: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message

In today’s episode, I’m chatting with David Tonge, a designer and owner of the London-based design studio The Division, who has worked extensively in Asia and in particular has a long relationship with Japan. David has 30 years experience as Designer, Director and Advisor to some of the worlds most successful brands. He’s also a Visiting Professor at Kanazawa Art University in Japan. Topics that we discuss today include his experiences as an industrial designer in Japan and with Japanese companies abroad, the importance of patience in finding success in Japan, what it means to "interpret" culture in design, and why the pace of decision-making itself may affect whether your project even gets off the ground. Today's Language: おとしどころ o-to-shi-do-ko-ro 落とし所 Literally: "the place where things fall" Meaning: compromise, common ground David's Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidtonge/ Company Website: https://the-division.com/ Art Photography: https://www.dtonge.co.uk/ Related Episodes:  Understanding the Japanese Marketplace with Natalie Meyer: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Understanding-the-Japanese-Marketplace-with-Natalie-Meyer-ejo3l3 Discovering Ma: Finding Success in Japan by Learning to Pay Attention with Byron Barón: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/Discovering-Ma-Finding-Success-in-Japan-by-Learning-to-Pay-Attention-with-Byron-Barn-ejiru4 On Being an Effective Communicator in Japan with Anthony Griffin: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/episodes/On-Being-an-Effective-Communicator-in-Japan-with-Anthony-Griffin-el1v9m Want to support the podcast? Check the podcast's ko-fi page to help keep me well-caffeinated: https://ko-fi.com/businesssuccessjapan Be sure to follow or subscribe for more Japanese language and cultural insights. And if you enjoy the podcast, please leave a review so that other people can find it as well. And of course, if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions for future episodes, please email me at businesssuccessjapan@gmail.com. Leave me a voice message here: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/businesssuccessjapan/message