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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 Idea   The 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 Suenos Maction 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 Deanna Elstrom: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deanna-elstrom Japan Adventures via Camper Van = Dream Drive: https://www.dreamdrive.life Use the code word "ZEN" to receive discounts

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 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 Use the code word "ZEN" to receive discounts

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 Profile Great 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 Idea   Asano 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 word Guy 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=X7FEas03Xjg Great Sleep Starts Here = gugu Sleep Company: https://gugu.jp Japan Adventures via Camper Van = Dream Drive: https://www.dreamdrive.life Use the code word "ZEN" to receive discounts

This episode we discuss fashion in Japan and premium dog food. Not two topics often mentioned in the same sentence, but very related to today's guest Mr. Loic Bizel. Loic started his own fashion consulting business in Tokyo nearly 30 years ago and runs two very successful fashion related websites (see links in the notes below). He was one of the co-founders of the fashion "flash sales" site Gladd.jp in 2009. He's referred to as a "Trendspotter" and "Cool Hunter" by the media and is considered one of the utmost foreign experts on Japanese fashion trends. In 2017 he started a new DTC business focused on premium dog food. Using his experience in eCommerce, spotting new "trends", and understanding the Japanese psyche, "Leo & Lea" specializes in a growing niche for organic pet food with a unique customer experience. This is another insightful and fun listening episode. Other topics we cover: Fashion in Japan is about being part of a communityWhy Japanese prefer to spend on fashion over home improvementHow fashion trends start in JapanThe role and importance of "Select Shops"How the Japanese fashion market has changed in the past 30 yearsThe Moncler story of how puffer jackets went from niche to BOOM in JapanDefining Fashionable vs. TrendyWhy Tokyo is the best fashion capital in the worldDogs in Japan are treated as family membersWhy Japanese are happy to pay a premium for organic dog foodIn Japan you are not a pet "owner" you are referred to as a pet "parent"Favorite Japanese word (Shoganai)Loic Bizel: https://lebiz-consulting.com Fashion In Japan: https://fashioninjapan.com Leo & Lea Premium Dog Food: https://leoandlea.com Japan Adventures via Camper Van = Dream Drive: https://www.dreamdrive.life Use the code word "ZEN" to receive discounts

This episode I speak with Brendhan Kelly, the Hospitality Communication Manager for the Tysons Group of restaurants. Tysons is most well known for Ivy Place, Cicada, Smokehouse, and the iconic TY Harbor Brewery in Tennozu Isle. If you have dinned at any of these restaurants you were most likely impressed with the unique level of personalized hospitality. This is a direct result of Brendhan's input and influence. We discuss Tysons brand of "Global Hospitality" and how he trains and imparts this with staff and mentors and empowers them to become "experience creators".  You will also hear about how after years of consulting work, he suddenly switched careers in his mid-40's, walked into a Tysons restaurant and said "I want to work here". Other highlights from our conversation: The difference between "Service" and "Hospitality"A story about entertaining 350 South Africans during the rugby World Cup How he empowers staff to give personalized servicePet peeve about restaurants in JapanThe big break which catapulted him to his current positionMentoring techniques to teach better hospitalityThe best compliment he could ever receiveThe story behind the IPA nameHow his father's business and childhood influenced his interest in hospitalityThe one establishment which has better hospitality than his chainHow hospitality affects the bottom line in the restaurant businessgugu Sleep Company https://gugu.jp Dream Drive: https://www.dreamdrive.life Brendhan Kelly: https://www.tysons.jp/en/recruit/interview-brendan Tysons & Company: https://www.tysons.jp/en/about

This episode I sit down with Katsura Sunshine, the only Western Rakugo Master Storyteller in the world and only the 2nd in the history of traditional Japanese Rakugo. He shares his fascinating journey from Canadian playwright and musical producer to Master Japanese Rakugo Storyteller.  We dive into the details of his three-year apprenticeship, the hardships and rewards. How he became an international Rakugo ambassador not only on Off-Broadway but around the world. Toward the end of the podcast we even get to hear a short traditional Rakugo story translated into English. Other topics we discuss:  The genius story behind why his Master made him bleach his hair blondWhy he does not localize the traditional Rakugo stories when presenting in EnglishHow he got his first big break to internationalize RakugoThe differences between stand-up comedy and RakugoIndentured servitude for three years and menial jobs is part of the apprenticeshipThe real meaning and purpose behind the apprenticeshipHow he convinced his Master to take him as an apprenticeNew Yorkers reaction when seeing him in kimono in publicRakugo stories are very family friendly, but there is an "adult" version as wellKatsura Shinshine's Website: https://www.rakugo.lol More Now and Zen episodes: https://www.nowandzen.jp/ Dream Drive: https://www.dreamdrive.life gugu Sleep Company: https://gugu.jp