The Samurai Way: Mastering Business & Life with Samurai Wisdom

In this new episode of The Samurai Way, Lori Tsugawa sits down with Paul Kirch, entrepreneur, sales coach, and founder of BOSS Academy. Paul’s journey began in a small town in Nebraska, where he dreamed of becoming his own boss. From working at Gallup to leading sales teams, launching his own business, and even hosting a Top 10 Business Podcast, Paul’s story is one of resilience, courage, and transformation. Paul opens up about the challenges of entrepreneurship, the pain of divorce, and how humor and improv became a surprising source of healing. At the heart of his work is the Askology Method, a framework built on the power of asking the right questions: leading, investigative, empathetic, and instigating, to create authentic conversations in business and life. Through the lens of Bushido values like integrity, honor, and loyalty, Paul shares how he helps entrepreneurs and sales professionals move beyond old-school selling tactics and instead build trust, connection, and meaningful success. This episode is a powerful reminder that business, like life, is about doing the right thing, always. 📌 Connect with Paul Kirch 🌐 Website: paulkirch.com 💼 Boss Academy Community: bossacademy.com 📚 Learn more about the Askology Method (eBook available through Paul)  

We have the honor of interviewing Frank King, who has given 13 TEDx Talks about Mental Health.  As a comedian, he wrote for the Jay Leno show for 20 years! You won't want to miss this episode of "The Samurai Way, information below. Frank is a Guinness World Record holder for TEDx Talks (13 and counting) and spent 20 years writing for The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. He has shared the stage with comedy legends like Jerry Seinfeld, Adam Sandler, Ellen DeGeneres, and Jeff Foxworthy. But behind the laughter lies Frank’s raw and honest truth: a lifetime of depression, suicidality, and survival. He speaks openly about his family’s history of suicide, his own close calls, and how he turned his pain into purpose by using comedy to save lives. Through his talks, books (Guts, Grit & The Grind series), and advocacy, Frank brings a vital message: mental health matters, suicide can be prevented, and humor can heal. His mission is simple yet profound — to save a life a day. 📌 Connect and Learn More 🌐 Frank’s Website: mentalhealthcomedian.com 🧠 National Alliance on Mental Illness: nami.org 📚 Free Audiobook: Guts, Grit & The Grind (Vol. 1) available on Frank’s site 📺 Watch his TEDx Talks: Frank King TEDx  

In this episode of The Samurai Way, I sit down with Dennis C. Miller, a nationally recognized expert in nonprofit leadership and board governance, who embodies the Japanese principle of Ganbaru — never giving up. Dennis’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. From a childhood marked by hardship and rejection to working as a hotel houseman, he eventually rose to become the CEO of major healthcare organizations, the founder of an executive search firm, and a trusted coach to nonprofit leaders. Along the way, he discovered the power of resilience, purpose, and self-belief. Together, we explore how Dennis transformed adversity into strength, the role of Ganbaru in his success, and why true fulfillment comes from giving back. His story is a powerful reminder that no matter how many times life knocks us down, we can always rise again. 📚 Learn more about Dennis’s story in his autobiography From Mopping Floors to CEO: From Hopelessness and Failure to Happiness and Success: Get the book on Amazon 📩 Connect with Dennis directly: Website: www.denniscmiller.com Email: dennis@denniscmiller.com Tune in and discover how Ganbaru can guide you through your own challenges and help you live with greater courage and resilience.  

In this episode of The Samurai Way, I explore the timeless Code of Bushido, the moral compass of the samurai, and ask: what if it is the cure for many of today’s struggles? Through humor, story, and reflection, I show how each of the seven virtues: courage, integrity, compassion, respect, honesty, honor, and loyalty, can guide us through the noise and uncertainty of modern life. From online conflicts to personal challenges, Bushido offers wisdom we can still use every day. Join me as we dust off ancient wisdom and see how it still shines in 2025. Connect with Lori Tsugawa: 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/loritsugawa/ 🌐 Website: https://www.loriwhaley.com/

In this episode of The Samurai Way, I sit down with David Brier, a branding visionary whose work has transformed companies across the globe. What begins as a conversation about logos and marketing quickly unfolds into something much deeper, a journey into the art of differentiation, the courage to stand apart, and the Kaizen spirit of constant improvement.   David shares remarkable stories, from reimagining a small dog food company to making bagged ice unforgettable, showing how the smallest details can elevate an entire brand and a life. Together, we explore how creativity, purpose, and joy can co-exist with prosperity and impact.   This is more than a branding conversation. It is a reminder that in business and in life, different is better than better.   Connect with David Brier: 🔗 Website: https://www.risingabovethenoise.com 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidbrier/ 📘 Book: Rich Brand Poor Brand

In this episode of The Samurai Way, I take you on a heartfelt journey through Fushimi Inari, Kyoto’s iconic shrine of thousands of vermilion gates. What begins as a spiritual walk quickly becomes something deeply personal for me—a path into memory, gratitude, and family tradition. Along the way, I share the story of Inari sushi, a humble pouch of sweet tofu and rice that carries the love and legacy of my grandmother’s kitchen. Blending the sacred and the everyday, I invite you to reflect with me on the places, flavors, and rituals that keep our heritage alive.   Connect with Lori Tsugawa: 🔗 LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/loritsugawa/ 🌐 Website: https://www.loriwhaley.com/  

In this powerful episode of The Samurai Way, Lori Tsugawa sits down with bestselling author and sales strategist John Golden to explore how timeless Samurai wisdom like Bushido, Kaizen, and Kintsugi applies to modern life, leadership, and business. Drawing from his book Winning the Battle for Sales, John reveals how preparation, authenticity, and continuous growth are not only keys to success but also paths to living with intention and resilience. You’ll learn: Why "preparation wins battles" in both business and life How to lead with authenticity by first knowing yourself The power of Kaizen for steady, daily improvement How Kintsugi teaches us to embrace imperfection as strength And why self-awareness is the most underrated superpower 💡 Whether you’re facing a personal challenge, running a business, or simply seeking your Ikigai—this episode will inspire you to show up, grow forward, and lead with honor. 👉 Connect with John Golden 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/johngolden 🌐 Website: salespop.net  

Join me in the heart of Japan’s tea culture, Uji, where matcha is more than a drink. It is a spiritual practice. In this episode, I take you through quiet tea fields, centuries-old shops, and into the stillness of a traditional tea ceremony. You’ll discover: How matcha shaped the mindset and rituals of the samurai The meticulous process behind Uji’s world-renowned green tea My personal experience with the ceremony and what it revealed about discipline, harmony, and presence How ancient tea traditions are being reimagined by a new generation Whether you’re a tea lover, a student of Japanese culture, or simply curious about mindful living, this episode offers something deeper. 🎧 Listen now and walk the Samurai Way, one quiet sip at a time. 🔗 Connect with me: LinkedIn – Lori Tsugawa Whaley 🌐 Website: www.loriwhaley.com

In this inspiring episode of The Samurai Way, host Lori Tsugawa Whaley welcomes Sarka Risch, a multilingual LinkedIn Mindset Strategist, speaker, and Japanese culture enthusiast. Sarka shares how embracing Japanese values like compassion, courage, and consistency transformed her approach to life and business. From overcoming perfectionism to being featured in Forbes, Sarka opens up about her journey of building genuine, trust-based communities on LinkedIn and how the samurai spirit influences her mindset. You'll learn: 🌱 How the Japanese concept of Ikigai ties into professional purpose 🤝 Why empathy and trust are essential for long-term success on LinkedIn 🧠 What it takes to shift from self-doubt to authentic leadership 💪 How courage helps you face fear and build a life aligned with your values Plus, hear about her transformative seven-week solo journey through Japan and how community and kindness shaped her experience. 🔗 Connect with Sarka Risch: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/sarkarisch LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarka-risch/ 🎧 Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and more. Just search The Samurai Way. 📲 Like, share, and subscribe to join a growing community inspired by Japanese wisdom and courageous living.

In this episode of The Samurai Way, I’m honored to welcome John Suzuki—a bestselling author, speaker, and host of the Finding Better podcast. John’s mission is to bring more heart into the world and leave it better than we found it. He is the author of American Grit: From a Japanese American Concentration Camp Rises an American Hero, a powerful story of courage, honor, and perseverance. His work sheds light on untold history while inspiring others to live with resilience and purpose. Today, we dive into American Grit: A Story of Courage, Honor, and Purpose. Together, we explore the incredible true story that led John to uncover a forgotten piece of history, the lessons we can learn from those who endured immense hardship, and how we can apply their strength and wisdom to our own lives. 🔥 Tune in to discover: ✅ The untold story behind American Grit and why it matters today ✅ How history teaches us resilience, honor, and the power of standing for what’s right ✅ The mindset shifts needed to overcome life’s greatest challenges 💡 Get ready for an eye-opening conversation that blends samurai wisdom, history, and personal transformation! Learn more about John Suzuki: 👉 Website: johnsuzuki.com 👉 Finding Better Podcast: johnsuzuki.com/podcast 🎧 Listen now and embrace The Samurai Way!  

In this soulful episode of The Samurai Way, Lori Tsugawa sits down with life sensei, speaker, and author Nancy Mueller, whose powerful journey from childhood trauma to personal transformation lights the way for others seeking healing and peace. Rooted in the teachings of martial arts, Nancy shares how the dojo became a sacred space for inner mastery — a path not of fighting, but of learning not to fight. Together, Lori and Nancy explore the spiritual energy of Japan, the true meaning of ikigai, and what it means to live in a state of effortless being. Whether you’ve walked through hardship or are seeking a new sense of flow, this conversation will leave you reflecting, inspired, and reminded that healing is not only possible — it’s your birthright.  

In this deeply moving episode of The Samurai Way, Lori Tsugawa Whaley sits down with mental health comedian and suicide prevention speaker Frank King, who transformed his darkest struggles into a life-saving mission. A former writer for The Tonight Show and a stand-up comedian for nearly four decades, Frank shares how his brush with suicide became the catalyst for his purpose — to save one life a day. With raw honesty, sharp humor, and profound insight, Frank opens up about: Discovering his ikigai in the 4th grade The warrior spirit behind comedy Living with depression and suicidality Why men don’t reach out — and what we can do about it The life-saving power of conversation and community What it means to live for others If you’ve ever wondered how to talk to someone struggling or how purpose can rise from pain, this episode is your guide. Frank reminds us that you don’t need to be a clinician to be a lifesaver — you just need to show up. Whether you're here for inspiration, healing, or simply to walk this path of purpose together, this episode will stay with you long after the final word.  

What happens when ancient samurai values meet modern-day military experience? In this deeply moving episode of The Samurai Way, I speak with Ido Kalev — a former Israeli intelligence commander, security expert, and author of The Spy Who Led Me. From leading covert missions to confronting trauma and PTSD, Ido’s journey reveals a universal truth: the Code of Bushido isn't just for warriors of the past — it's a guide for anyone seeking resilience, healing, and meaning. We explore: How Bushido mirrors values from the Torah and Ido’s upbringing in a tough neighborhood The courage it takes to be honest — with others and ourselves Why asking for help is an act of bravery Life after trauma, and the power of taking life inch by inch, step by step Stories of integrity, transformation, and the enduring human spirit Whether you're facing adversity or simply looking to live with more intention, Ido’s story will remind you that good morals never go out of style — and the way of the warrior is a path we can all walk.  

In this powerful episode of The Samurai Way, I sit down with renowned Sales and Marketing Psychologist Dr. Donald Moine for a deep conversation on how the timeless wisdom of Bushido can radically transform our lives today. Dr. Moine, who has consulted for companies from AT&T to Zurich Insurance, brings his expertise as a psychologist, author, and life coach to explore how core samurai values—Courage, Benevolence, Honesty, and Wisdom—can be applied to modern challenges in finance, relationships, and self-growth. We discuss: Why courage is the gateway to success in business and life The emotional and financial cost of playing small The epidemic of loneliness and how connection requires bravery Why benevolence isn't just charity, but a daily practice How honesty builds trust and unlocks deeper purpose The difference between knowledge and wisdom—and how to cultivate both Whether you're building a business, seeking more meaningful relationships, or aiming to live with more clarity and truth, this episode is a guide to walking the path of purpose, prosperity, and legacy.

In this heartfelt episode of The Samurai Way, Lori Tsugawa sits down with designer, author, and cultural storyteller Kelly Goto whose life's work is rooted in honoring her heritage, family legacy, and the powerful values of the Bushido code. Kelly shares the emotional journey behind her book The Seattle Samurai, a tribute to her late father Sam Goto, whose cartoons captured the strength, humor, and resilience of the Japanese American experience. Raised in a multigenerational household, Kelly reflects on the quiet power of ganbaru, the wisdom of kaizen, and the internal discipline that helped her thrive as a Japanese American woman in business. From leading her global design agency GoToMedia to preserving generational stories in a world obsessed with speed, Kelly’s message is both deeply personal and universally inspiring. Together, Lori and Kelly explore themes of legacy, perseverance, and living a life of purpose guided by honor, integrity, and resilience. Key Takeaways: – How The Seattle Samurai honors history through art and story – What it means to grow up Japanese American in a mostly white community – How Kelly learned to embrace ganbaru—the spirit of “never give up” – Why cultural identity can be reclaimed and redefined in adulthood – The role of kaizen in both business and personal mastery – How to pass on legacy through storytelling and example 💡 If you’ve ever felt torn between cultures or unsure how to preserve your family’s wisdom, this episode is a moving reminder that your roots are your strength. 👉 Subscribe to The Samurai Way on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite platform.  

In this inspiring episode of The Samurai Way, artist, author, and illustrator Sanae Ishida opens up about her lifelong journaling practice that has spanned over 30 years. More than just a daily habit, journaling for Sanae is a sacred space for tuning into intuition, sparking creativity, and finding inner peace. Join us as we explore creativity as a spiritual practice and learn how listening to your body and mind can guide your next bold step. Sanae shares her insights on balancing intention with letting go, embracing the process, and nurturing your creative spirit through mindful reflection. Discover more of Sanae’s beautiful work and teachings at sanaeishida.com, including her beloved children’s books Little Kunoichi and Goodnight Ninjas. Whether you’re a maker, writer, or seeker of meaning, this episode offers wisdom and practical inspiration to help you connect deeply with yourself and your creative flow. Tune in, get still, and let your intuition lead the way.  

In this powerful episode of The Samurai Way, Lori Tsugawa Whaley sits down with entrepreneur and digital marketing pioneer Eric Louviere, who shares his raw, unfiltered story of growing up in poverty, overcoming abuse, and building a multimillion-dollar business—all through the spirit of Ganbaru. Eric opens up about the emotional and spiritual battles he’s fought behind the scenes, why success starts in the mind, and how he learned to face daily resistance like a warrior. From launching his first business with just $2,000 to making $1 million in a single day, Eric’s journey is a testament to what’s possible when you refuse to give up. Together, Lori and Eric explore themes of inner strength, self-mastery, and the power of courage over confidence. This is more than a business story—it’s a spiritual call to arms for anyone facing adversity. Key Takeaways: – What it really means to Ganbaru in modern life – How Eric built his first 7-figure business with no safety net – Why resistance is part of the journey—and how to break through it – The difference between motivation and long-term drive – Why courage comes before confidence – How to armor up mentally, emotionally, and spiritually every day 💡 If you’ve ever doubted yourself or felt stuck, this episode will give you the mindset shift you didn’t know you needed. 👉 Subscribe to The Samurai Way on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite platform.

In this special episode, I share my heartfelt journey through Miyama, Japan, a peaceful mountain village known for its thatched-roof homes and deep farming traditions. As a farmer’s daughter, returning to these rice fields was more than a visit. It was a spiritual homecoming. I can’t wait to bring you along on this journey where ancient culture, simplicity, and soul come together. Thank you for taking a moment today to remember, reflect, and reconnect.

In this soul-nourishing episode, I take you with me on a personal journey through Japan—where every encounter tells a story and every quiet moment holds a lesson.   From the bustling back alleys of Osaka to feeding the gentle deer of Nara Park, I followed more than a map—I followed my Ikigai.   Join me as I share:    The serene experience of feeding the sacred deer in Nara, and the unexpected wisdom found in their calm presence  A fascinating visit to the Samurai & Ninja Museum, where I learned how these ancient warriors lived with honor, discipline, and purpose  The cultural rituals behind every meal—and why respect is always the first ingredient  How ancient values like Omotenashi (hospitality)   This isn’t just a travel story. It’s a pilgrimage through tradition, connection, and timeless wisdom.   Whether you’re planning your own trip to Japan, craving a deeper cultural connection, or simply seeking stories that stir the soul—this episode is for you.   Let this journey remind you: History can teach the mind, but culture awakens the spirit.    Subscribe to The Samurai Way on Amazon Music, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and more.

In this inspiring episode of The Samurai Way, Lori Tsugawa Whaley sits down with master sales trainer Eric Lofholm, who transformed a rocky start in sales into a purpose-filled life of teaching, serving, and selling. Guided by the principles of Ikigai, Ganbaru, and Kaizen, Eric shares how perseverance and continuous improvement helped him overcome self-doubt, economic hardship, and professional setbacks. Together, they explore: How finding your Ikigai can transform your work into a calling The power of Ganbaru—never giving up, even when you're ready to quit Why embracing Kaizen keeps mastery within reach The truth about serving others through ethical, heart-centered sales Whether you're in sales, leadership, or on your own path of personal development, this episode will fuel your spirit with timeless wisdom and modern-day resilience. 🎧 Listen Now Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms. 🔗 Connect with Eric Lofholm: 🌐 Website: https://www.ericlofholm.com 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eric.lofholm 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericlofholm 🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/saleschampion1