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In this episode of Ikigai with Jennifer Shinkai, Jennifer sits down with Christiane Brew, a British actress, improviser, director, producer, and coach based in Tokyo. Christiane is moving from performing other people's work to creating her own, and she shares how a tea and cake brainstorm with two fellow actresses grew into an immersive murder mystery experience, "Murder: My Story, The Wedding." Together they explore the messy middle of a new project, how roles shift as an idea grows, why naming uncomfortable emotions builds trust, and how the answers we need are often hiding in plain sight. Christiane also reflects on how her first job as a hotel receptionist still shapes the way she produces today. If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we'd love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. In this episode you’ll hear: How a group of three actresses turned a casual brainstorm into a full production.Why writing for yourself can create the work that doesn't exist yet.How a first job as a hotel receptionist shaped Christiane's approach to producing.Why roles change as a project grows, and how to lead without losing equality.The power of saying "this isn't fun anymore" out loud to build trust.Why asking "why" and looking inside first can reveal what is hiding in plain sight. About Christiane: Christiane Brew is a British actress, improviser, director, producer and coach based in Tokyo. From her very first job at sixteen, she's built experience across a surprising range of careers. Today, those experiences combine with her work as a performer to form a creative toolkit that reaches far beyond the stage. Most recently, she co-wrote and is producing Murder My Story, Tokyo's first immersive murder mystery theatre experience. Created by three women from different generations, backgrounds and skill sets, it's a show where the audience don't simply watch—they arrive as wedding guests and become part of the story. Today we're talking about the idea of ikigai—how Christiane found hers through performance, why creating meaningful shared experiences has become such a driving force in her life, and how decades of experience across theatre, business, marketing, education and leadership have come together in one ambitious creative project. We'll explore creative freedom, building your own opportunities instead of waiting for permission, the realities of collaboration, and why the most valuable resource you have may not be something you need to go looking for—but the skills, experiences and people already around you. Connect with Christiane: Website: https://www.christianebrew.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Christiane-Brew-Actress/61578663187787/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christianelbr LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christianebrew/ Murder, My Story: The Wedding Tickets https://fienta.com/murder-my-story-199671 Connect with Jennifer: Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifershinkai/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifershinkaicoach Website: https://jennifershinkai.com/ Instagram Coaching and Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/ Instagram Artist: https://www.instagram.com/jennifershinkai/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/ Things mentioned in the episode: The Book Thief (book Christiane read during her recovery): https://www.amazon.co.jp/Book-Thief-Readers-Circle/dp/0375842209 "Murder: My Story, The Wedding" https://fienta.com/murder-my-story

In this episode of Ikigai with Jennifer Shinkai, Jennifer sits down with her longtime friend and colleague Helen Iwata, a bilingual leadership and communications coach with over 35 years of experience in Japan. Helen opens up about the difficult seasons she has navigated in both her business and personal life, including a significant financial setback after working with a business coach that shook her confidence deeply. She shares her journey through bitterness, self-blame, and the slow, gradual process of finding her way back to joy. Helen and Jennifer explore the concept of "divine timing," the power of patience, and the importance of sitting with difficult emotions rather than bypassing them. They also discuss Helen's evolving professional identity, the philosophy of "less effort, more impact," the concept of mottainai as it applies to talent and energy, and the 10th anniversary of Helen's book Eigo no Shigoto Jutsu. The conversation is honest, warm, and deeply relatable for anyone navigating a season of transition. If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. In this episode you’ll hear: How Helen lost her sense of joy during a difficult few years and how she is finding her way backWhy taking 100% responsibility is so hard, and why it matters more than playing the victimHelen's philosophy of "less effort, more impact" and how it applies to leadership and communicationThe concept of mottainai applied to talent, energy, and unsolicited adviceWhy action brings clarity, and why you can't do what you don't know if you keep doing what you do knowThe 10th anniversary of Helen's book Eigo no Shigoto Jutsu and her new podcast and YouTube series About Helen: Helen Iwata is a bilingual leadership and communication coach from the UK with over 35 years’ experience in Japan, helping managers and executives in Japan—especially women—lead and communicate confidently in global business settings. During her 10 years with McKinsey & Company, she served as Manager of Client Communications, coaching consultants and clients in leadership, communication, and high-stakes presentations. As the founder of Sasuga Communications K. K., she partners with multinational organizations to design and deliver leadership and communication development programs for rising leaders through to seasoned executives across the APAC region. Helen is a TEDx coach and speaker, Nikkei Online columnist, author of Eigo no Shigoto-jutsu (Shogakukan), host of the Sasuga! Podcast, and serves on the Executive Committee of the British Chamber of Commerce in Japan. She is also a wife, mother, and karate world champion. 6 Weeks To Clear, Confident Communication For Women In Business Helen has launched a new program to help women managers and executives in Japan to speak more clearly and confidently in global business settings, so they can create greater impact through their work while staying true to themselves. Learn more: sasugacommunications.com/interest Connect with Helen: Sasuga Communications: https://sasugacommunications.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heleniwata/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heleniwata/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HelenIwata Connect with Jennifer: Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifershinkai/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifershinkaicoach Website: https://jennifershinkai.com/ Instagram Coaching and Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/ Instagram Artist: https://www.instagram.com/jennifershinkai/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/ Things mentioned in this episode: Eigo no Shigoto Jutsu by Helen Iwata https://www.amazon.co.jp/%E8%8B%B1%E8%AA%9E%E3%81%AE%E4%BB%95%E4%BA%8B%E8%A1%93-%E3%82%B0%E3%83%AD%E3%83%BC%E3%83%90%E3%83%AB%E3%83%BB%E3%83%93%E3%82%B8%E3%83%8D%E3%82%B9%E3%81%AE%E3%82%B3%E3%83%9F%E3%83%A5%E3%83%8B%E3%82%B1%E3%83%BC%E3%82%B7%E3%83%A7%E3%83%B3-%E5%B2%A9%E7%94%B0-%E3%83%98%E3%83%AC%E3%83%B3/dp/4093884560 Sasuga Podcast https://sasugacommunications.com/category/podcast/ Jim Fortin's program https://www.jimfortin.com/jims-products/

In this episode of Ikigai with Jennifer Shinkai, Jennifer speaks with Lana Iwabuchi, founder of Rocklit and creator of the Daruma Vision Workshop, reflecting on mentorship, being called “sempai,” and the idea of paying it forward. Lana shares her background of growing up in Japan from the age of 10 and how she began building connections in the foreign coaching community. She tells the origin story of the workshop, inspired by a trip with friends, manifestation, the Japanese tradition of “yoshuku” (pre-celebration), and discovering modern daruma dolls used to set and achieve goals by painting in their eyes. Lana describes the workshop flow—vision activation through visualization, embodying and sharing goals in the present tense, and anchoring them by painting a daruma—plus her decision to persevere through early failed launches and later expand the workshop with collaborators Monica and sound therapist Nanako. She explains Rocklit’s purpose of bringing spirit back into leadership and encourages listeners to be inspired and inspire others. If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. In this episode you’ll hear: Insights into the creation of the Daruma Vision WorkshopReflections on mentorship roles and embracing changeStrategies for turning visions into reality through emotional intelligenceThe impact of community and cultural richness in coachingInspiration for fostering connections and inspiring others About Lana: Lana Iwabuchi is a Certified Emotional Intelligence Coach and leadership facilitator based in Tokyo. She brings firsthand experience from corporate Japan—having worked at Mitsui & Co., Ltd. and Amazon Japan—into her mission of bringing emotional intelligence to workplaces. Her approach blends Western science with Eastern wisdom, shaped by over 25 years in Japan and a rich, multicultural upbringing across five countries on three continents. Through coaching, workshops, and keynotes, Lana creates safe, inspiring spaces where people reconnect with themselves and others. By helping leaders rediscover their sense of purpose and presence, she reignites the human spirit behind leadership, one grounded in awareness, courage, and heart. Russian by roots and Japanese at heart, Lana’s work bridges emotion and logic, East and West, science and spirit—inviting all to live and lead with an open heart. Connect with Lana: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lana-iwabuchi/ rocklit(website): https://www.rocklit.com/ rocklit(LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/rocklit/ Find out more about Daruma Vision: https://www.rocklit.com/daruma Connect with Jennifer: Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifershinkai/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifershinkaicoach Website: https://jennifershinkai.com/ Instagram Coaching and Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/ Instagram Artist: https://www.instagram.com/jennifershinkai/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/

In this episode of Ikigai with Jennifer Shinkai, I welcome Hendrik, a friend and professional contact since 2019, to discuss talents and strengths. We reconnect after several years and reflect on how their collaboration during the COVID-19 pandemic was crucial for Jennifer's business survival. Hendrik shares his experience working at Manulife Japan, emphasizing the importance of cultural diversity and the positive energy at the Indonesian Pavilion Expo. We delve into Hendrik's journey to Japan, his struggles and learnings in a different culture, and his newfound passion for Gallup’s CliftonStrengths assessment. Hendrik highlights the importance of knowing one’s talents and leveraging them to live a fulfilled life, aligning this with the concept of Ikigai. We also discuss the potential pitfalls of overusing strengths and the paradigm shift required in corporate environments to focus on strengths rather than weaknesses.  If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway.  In this episode you’ll hear: How Hendrik discovered his passion and Ikigai through the CliftonStrengths assessment, including his journey from Indonesia to Japan and his unique experiences in the Japanese workplaceThe importance of focusing on strengths rather than weaknesses, and how a strengths-based approach differs from trying to fix weaknessesHow leveraging individual strengths can boost workplace morale, enhance engagement, and improve overall quality of lifePractical steps to uncover and use your hidden talents in daily lifeThe crucial role that connections and community play in achieving professional success and finding purpose Things mentioned in the episode: CliftonStrengths: https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/253676/how-cliftonstrengths-works.aspx 32 CliftonStrengths team synergy sessions, 498 people over the last 2 years (Jan 2024 – Dec 2025) About Hendrik: Hendrik joined Manulife in January 2023 as Global Learning Partner, reporting into Asia Learning Lead and rolled up to Katherine MacNaughton`s organization. While sitting in the global team, Hendrik`s role is to build a learning culture in the Japan market. Hendrik ensures Japan programs are aligned with Manulife strategies & priorities while meeting the Japan market needs.   Prior to joining Manulife, Hendrik had similar roles and responsibilities in companies such as Philip Morris International and Bridgestone. Hendrik also performed an APAC regional role during his time in Bridgestone where he led regional talent management related projects covering 11 countries working in the Regional HQ of Bridgestone in Singapore. Hendrik`s background is in talent management and development areas.   Hendrik was awarded an MBA from Murdoch University in Singapore in 2018 and graduated with a Bachelor of Business from Queensland University of Technology in Brisbane, Australia. Outside of work, Hendrik is a father of 2 daughters. Connect with Hendrik: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hendrik-kwee-2512474b/ Contact: https://www.gallup.com/learning/certification/en/10644108/profile.aspx Connect with Jennifer: Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifershinkai/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifershinkaicoach  Website: https://jennifershinkai.com/  Instagram Coaching and Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/ Instagram Artist: https://www.instagram.com/jennifershinkai/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/

In this episode of Ikigai with Jennifer Shinkai, Jennifer engages in a deep conversation with Dr. Greg Story, discussing a variety of topics from his personal experiences and insights. They delve into Dr. Story's transformative journey from overcoming a challenging childhood and academic setbacks to achieving success in Japan. The conversation also touches on the significance of living an intentional life, the profound impact of near-death experiences, and the importance of adapting to technological advancements like AI. Dr. Story emphasizes generosity, discipline, and the value of helping others in personal and professional growth. If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway.  In this episode you’ll hear: Dr. Greg Story's mindset shift from fear to potentiality.Insights on how AI can enhance our personal and professional lives.The importance of leading an intentional life and fostering community.The influence of karate in developing discipline and confidence.Greg's transformation from an underconfident student to a PhD holder and leader.Strategies for fostering empathy and understanding in leadership. About  Greg Dr. Greg Story is the President of Dale Carnegie Tokyo Training Japan. He holds a Ph.D. in Japanese organisational decision-making and is a 40-year veteran of Japan with broad business leadership experience, having served as Country Head of four organisations in Japan. He launched a start-up in Nagoya and completed major turnarounds in both Osaka and Tokyo for Austrade. In 2001, he was promoted to Minister Commercial in the Australian Embassy and became the Country Head for Austrade. In 2003, he joined Shinsei’s Retail Bank, a unique mix of start-up and turnaround, where he managed 550 staff in the Platinum Banking Division—responsible for two-thirds of the bank’s revenue—eventually becoming Joint CEO of the Retail Bank. In 2007, he was appointed Country Head for the National Australia Bank in Japan. Since 2010, Dr. Story has led Dale Carnegie Tokyo Training Japan as President. He is a Master Trainer, an international award-winning Sales Leader, and the author of eight books including Japan Sales Mastery, Japan Business Mastery, Japan Presentations Mastery, and Japan Leadership Mastery. Beyond his corporate career, Dr. Story is an Adjunct Professor in the International Business Faculty at Griffith University. He is also a 6th Dan in traditional Shitoryu Karate and applies martial arts philosophies and strategies to leadership and business. Things mentioned in the episode Greg doing Unshu in 1987 Interview video with Lance Lee Dale Carnegie Tokyo Website Dr. Greg Story’s author page on Amazon Dr. Greg Story’s podcast page on Apple Podcasts Connect with Greg LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregstory/ Connect with Jennifer LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifershinkai/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifershinkaicoach  Website: https://jennifershinkai.com/  Instagram Coaching and Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/ Instagram Artist: https://www.instagram.com/jennifershinkai/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/

Season 4 is here! In this episode of Ikigai with Jennifer Shinkai, Jennifer is joined by Joe Pournovin, a community builder and educator, to explore his incredible journey from Manchester to Japan and the creation of the Yamathon event.  Joe shares his experiences with resilience, persistence, and imposter syndrome, and discusses the importance of passion in driving sustainable community impact. He highlights the challenges and triumphs of organizing the annual Yamathon walk in Tokyo, which has grown significantly over the years.  The conversation underscores the power of volunteerism, the beauty of human connections, and the importance of finding one's own Ikigai. If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway.  In this episode you’ll hear: The origins and evolution of the Tokyo YamathonJoe's journey to Japan and finding purposeOvercoming imposter syndrome and embracing authenticityThe value of community and volunteeringStrategies for finding your purpose and making an impact About Joe Pournovin Joe Pournovin is a community builder, educator, and the founder of Tokyo Yamathon—an annual impact walk that brings together thousands of people to explore Tokyo and raise funds for local NPOs. Based in Tokyo, Joe is passionate about creating meaningful connections between people, purpose, and place. He also leads partnership development at Laurus International School of Science, where he helps bridge education and real-world impact. He’s also a fellow Northerner also from the Manchester area and a North Easterner Tokyoite. Connect with Joe Pournovin Tokyo Yamathon Website: https://www.tokyo-yamathon.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tokyoyamathon Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tokyoyamathon LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tokyo-yamathon IVG Japan Website: https://www.ivgjapan.org Connect with Jennifer LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifershinkai/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifershinkaicoach  Website: https://jennifershinkai.com/  Instagram Coaching and Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/ Instagram Artist: https://www.instagram.com/jennifershinkai/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/ Things mentioned in the episode:  The FooTNiK: https://footnik.com/ Outrun Cancer: https://www.outruncancer.net/our-stories#:~:text=A%20former%20Matamata%20woman%20and,to%20mark%20a%20personal%20goal. KITTYZILLA: https://www.instagram.com/kittyzillastudio/

Join Jennifer as she delves into an enriching conversation with Katheryn Gronauer, a dynamic coach and facilitator with expertise in leadership, cross-cultural transition, and wellness. There are fascinating parallels between business or life transitions and the traditional Japanese “sento” or public bath experience. Whether navigating a career shift, exploring new ventures, or simply seeking inspiration for personal growth, this episode offers a wealth of wisdom on embracing change, “dropping the towel” to be more authentic and finding more alignment in your work and life. Don't miss the valuable lessons on transparency, resilience, and the profound impact of incremental progress. If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway.  In this episode you’ll hear: Katheryn’s first experience with feeling out of alignment with her environmentLearning to be an entrepreneur in her own wayThe Sento Mindset as a metaphor for transformationsThe question: Are you transitioning or transforming? About Katheryn Katheryn Gronauer is a coach with expertise in leadership, cross-cultural transition, and wellness.  She is a graduate of Sophia University with a degree in International Business & Culture, a certified coach through both the Center for Executive Coaching (International Coaching Federation Accredited) and Institute of Integrative Nutrition, and a certified ATD Trainer & Change Management Facilitator.  Beyond coaching and training, Katheryn is a Speaker and Writer. She has spoken at Tedx on The Sento Mindset, the US Embassy, Toyo University, Roppongi Cooperative, and more.  She has written for JapanToday, Savvy, Women’s Health, HuffPost, and more, as well as authored the book Confessions of a Yo-yo Dieter on her experience of losing 40 pounds with Western and Eastern health concepts.  Katheryn is originally from Florida and currently lives with her family in Tokyo. Connect with Katheryn www.katheryngronauer.com www.thrivetokyo.com lu.ma/thrive-tokyo  www.linkedin.com/in/katheryngronauer  www.instagram.com/katheryngronauer  Connect with Jennifer Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifershinkai/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifershinkaicoach  Website: https://jennifershinkai.com/  Instagram Coaching and Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/ Instagram Artist: https://www.instagram.com/jennifershinkai/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/

In this engaging episode of 'Ikigai with Jennifer Shinkai,' host Jennifer Shinkai speaks with the inspiring Cynthia Usui about career breaks, life after 60, redefining her concept of Ikigai, and finding new purpose. Cynthia shares her journey from being a stay-at-home mum to re-entering the workforce, taking on different career roles, and ultimately redefining conventional wisdom around work-life balance and career trajectories. Cynthia is now doing amazing work opening doors for children from struggling families and we hear how mattering to someone is key to her ikigai.  If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway.  In this episode you’ll hear: What happened when Cynthia’s joyful life of actively raising her daughter came to its natural endCynthia’s frustrating experience with the coaching question: What do you love to do?Cynthia’s three question “Life Check Up” Why your career is like the Tokyo Metro and how you can get back on the train after a career breakCynthia’s real talk that many corporations don’t want their workers to hear About Cynthia Born in Manila in 1959, Cynthia arrived in Tokyo in 1980 as a Monbusho Scholar. After graduating from the Tokyo University of Foreign Studies, she worked for a trading company and married a Japanese diplomat. She became a mother at 30 and decided to become a stay-at-home mom. As wife of a diplomat, she has lived in five different countries, and when her daughter left for college, she went back to work as cafeteria manager at the International School Bangkok. She returned to Tokyo at age 52 and accepted the only role she could find - junior banquet assistant at the Tokyo American Club. In 2013, she joined the hospitality industry and quickly rose from corporate sales manager at ANA InterContinental Hotel Tokyo to senior manager of Coca-Cola's Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games hospitality team. Cynthia is a passionate advocate for women returning to the workforce, has written several books on the subject, and is a media personality called on to discuss social and political issues. She turned 65 last year and has tasked herself with raising support for children from single-parent households. Connect with Cynthia 薄井シンシア Cynthia Usui | LinkedIn 薄井シンシア / 専業主婦・駐妻→子育て後に就職、転職を重ね、10年で社長→65歳に起業検討 (@UsuiCynthia) / X Instagram 薄井シンシア – Cynthia Usui Connect with Jennifer Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifershinkai/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifershinkaicoach  Website: https://jennifershinkai.com/  Instagram Coaching and Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/ Instagram Artist: https://www.instagram.com/jennifershinkai/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/

Welcome back to the Ikigai with Jennifer Shinkai podcast! We hope you all had a fabulous holiday season. In this first episode of 2025 I am thrilled to be talking with Elizabeth Okada, renowned coach in her own right, as well as being a sought after coaching supervisor and trainer. Elizabeth joins us to help demystify coaching, supervision and to discuss her most recent development as a retirement coach.  If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway.  In this episode you’ll hear: The difference between Supervision and Mentor CoachingHow supervision can help you enhance your coaching practiceThe importance of curiosity and reflection in your coaching practiceWhat made Elizabeth decide to pursue being a supervisorHow Elizabeth coaches people through the transition into retirement About  Elizabeth: Elizabeth started her career as a teacher and then continued this when she moved to Japan. Elizabeth had the chance to move into training and spent several years in language and intercultural training roles before taking on positions in Talent Management and Leadership Development. Since 2005 Elizabeth has been a coach working with leaders in a variety of industries. She is also a Coach Supervisor and trains coaches.  Most recently Elizabeth has started supporting leaders who are transitioning into retirement so that they can have  a rich and fulfilling post-retirement life.  Connect with Elizabeth: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-okada-04848825 Connect with Jennifer: Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifershinkai/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifershinkaicoach  Website: https://jennifershinkai.com/  Instagram Coaching and Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/ Instagram Artist: https://www.instagram.com/jennifershinkai/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/

On the latest episode of the podcast we are discussing burnout and mindfulness with the founder of Tokyo Mindfulness, Misha Yurchenko. Misha has some amazing insights to share with you all about the pattern of burnout he experienced repeatedly in his work life, and how he broke this pattern. Many people can still experience burnout or stress after finding their ikigai, so this conversation is an important reminder that part of ikigai is having room in your mind. Listen to the episode to hear more about how to make this room and break those destructive work patterns! In this episode you’ll hear: Misha’s formula for what suffering is and how to lower it in your lifeAbout Misha’s experience of burnout whilst running a startupHow the quality of the hours you work can affect you more than the quantityThe importance of taking ‘proper’ breaks and holidaysHow Misha made changes in his life to stop the patterns that led to burnout About  Misha: Misha Yurchenko is a Tokyo-based certified meditation teacher with over ten years of meditation experience. He has attended retreats worldwide, practicing a range of techniques. His primary practices today are samatha-vipassana and the Brahmaviharas in the Theravada Buddhist tradition. After experiencing extreme burnout from his venture-funded startup, he retreated to the mountains for a month of meditation. He later founded Tokyo Mindfulness, dedicated to helping others break free from their limitations. Misha combines meditation, breathwork, and nervous system healing in a practical and integrated approach to assist people in letting go of the ego, releasing old habit patterns, and finding inner freedom. He is the author of several books, writes a weekly Substack, and lives in Nerima with his family. Connect with Misha: Website: https://tokyomindfulness.com/ Substack: https://mishayurchenko.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tokyomindfulnessjapan/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/misha-yurchenko-88458565/ Meetup Group: https://www.meetup.com/pro/conscious-living-japan/ Connect with Jennifer Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifershinkai/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifershinkaicoach  Website: https://jennifershinkai.com/  Instagram Coaching and Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/ Instagram Artist: https://www.instagram.com/jennifershinkai/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/

On the latest episode of the podcast our guest is Victoria Close from Bikudesigns, a vintage kimono jewellery brand. The Japanese concept of Mottainai ( もったいない ), which expresses a sadness or regret about wasting or mistreating resources, has become very important to Victoria in both her life and work. It also gave her a word for something she’d felt since she was a young child. In the episode we find out more about Mottainai, about Victoria’s creative work, and insights into showing up authentically and intentionally online as a creative and a business owner. If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway.  In this episode you’ll hear: About the concept of Mottainai and how it manifests in Victoria’s life and workWhat Victoria’s learned about starting her own businessHow Victoria is showing up authentically on YouTubeThe importance of intentionality About the Creative Calm challenge and how you can participate About  Victoria: Victoria Close is the creative force behind Bikudesigns, a vintage kimono jewelry brand. She crafts unique pieces using vintage and antique fabrics and other found objects she personally sources. Driven by the 'mottainai' philosophy, Victoria is dedicated to repurposing forgotten items and keeping them out of landfills. In 2023, Victoria launched ‘Studio Biku’ in Shimokitazawa, a cozy Showa-era studio. Here, she designs her jewelry, runs a small shop featuring 12 international makers based in Japan, conducts creative workshops, and rents out the space to emerging artists and designers for their own classes. A dedicated advocate for creative small businesses, Victoria offers practical, hands-on and online courses, and founded the Overseas Makers Guild, a free Facebook community that supports, connects, and celebrates handmade business owners. She also mentors creative entrepreneurs through her one-on-one programs. Victoria has called Tokyo home for over half her life and lives in Shimokitazawa with her British husband and their two children. Connect with Victoria:
 Website: https://www.bikudesigns.com/ 
 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bikudesigns/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bikudesigns/ 
 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@studio_biku Connect with Jennifer: Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifershinkai/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifershinkaicoach  Website: https://jennifershinkai.com/  Instagram Coaching and Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/ Instagram Artist: https://www.instagram.com/jennifershinkai/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/

Welcome back to another episode of Ikigai with Jennifer Shinkai. This week I am joined by Michael Walker, Founder and Artistic Director of SheepDog Theatre based in Tokyo, Japan. As a lifelong fan of live theatre I know very well the ikigai of being an audience member, but in this episode Michael shares with us what it's like to be involved in the production side of things. From acting to directing and running his own theatre company, Michael gives us a fascinating glimpse into the magic of theatre production in Japan. If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway.  In this episode you’ll hear: What theatre means to Michael in terms of ikigaiHow Michael got bitten by the theatre bug while visiting EdinburghHow Michael applies lessons learned from sport to live theatreAbout SheepDog Theatre’s beginnings and its current transitionMichael’s advice for people wanting to pursue a seemingly impossible dream Things mentioned in the episode: THE LITTLE FELLOW  By Kate Hamill Directed by Michael Walker Studio Actre, Tokyo July 3-7, 2024 Sheepdog Theatre returns to Studio Actre for its production of Kate Hamill’s wickedly funny play, The Little Fellow. The story is based on the real life memoirs of 19th century courtesan Harriet Wilson, who entertained the most powerful men in England of the time. When the famous Duke of Wellington  breaks a promise that would set her up for life, she seeks out retribution, not just on him, but all the men who’ve crossed her. The play is simultaneously violent and poignant as it explores themes of identity, societal expectations, and personal transformation. About  Michael: Michael graduated from Sydney’s Theatre Nepean drama program before working as a professional actor for nearly a decade. After moving to Japan, he formed Maidenagoya Productions, Chubu’s first independent theatre company. In 2019 he moved to Tokyo and formed Sheepdog Theatre. After a slow start (thanks to the pandemic), Sheepdog Theatre found its momentum in 2023 and is now a fully professional company. When not being creative, Michael enjoys riding his motorcycle through the many beautiful parts of Japan. Connect with Michael: Website: http://sheepdogtheatre.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sheepdogtheatre/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sheepdogtheatre/ Connect with Jennifer Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifershinkai/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifershinkaicoach  Website: https://jennifershinkai.com/  Instagram Coaching and Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/ Instagram Artist: https://www.instagram.com/jennifershinkai/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/

Welcome to another episode of the Ikigai with Jennifer Shinkai podcast. This week we are talking about yoyu, a Japanese concept conveying one’s capacity to handle or afford something. Author Marci Kobayashi joins us to discuss the concept of yoyu and her upcoming book, "Finding Yoyu: The Japanese Compass for Navigating Overwhelm and Cultivating Abundance in 7 Key Areas of Life."  Listen to the episode to hear more about yoyu and how it links to ikigai! If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway.  In this episode you’ll hear: What Yoyu is and how Marci came to learn about itHow Marci applied the concept of Yoyu to a challenging time in her lifeAbout the importance of proactively taking time for yourselfAbout ‘tiny altars’ and how they make claiming space more manageableHow you can figure out what makes you feel a sense of yoyu About Marci: Marci Kobayashi is a writer, teacher, and business owner in Tokyo. Raised in the U.S., she arrived in Japan as a college student in the early ’90s and has lived there ever since. In 2002, she started a company to provide English-conversation programs and study-abroad advising, which evolved into assisting international organizations and entrepreneurs in improving their global reach online through web design and coaching. Marci also has a dedicated spiritual practice, enjoys studying alternative-healing modalities, cooking a whole-foods flexitarian diet, and exploring Japan. She is the author of the upcoming book, "Finding Yoyu: The Japanese Compass for Navigating Overwhelm and Cultivating Abundance in 7 Key Areas of Life." She's also working on a memoir chronicling the five years she was the primary caregiver for her father-in-law, a WWII Japanese war veteran, as he navigated Alzheimer’s. Connect with Marci: Website: https://marcikobayashi.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarciSKobayashi Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marcikobayashi/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marci-kobayashi/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/marcikobayashi Connect with Jennifer: Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifershinkai/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifershinkaicoach  Website: https://jennifershinkai.com/  Instagram Coaching and Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/ Instagram Artist: https://www.instagram.com/jennifershinkai/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/

This week’s episode contains general discussions of BDSM and torture. Welcome to the latest episode of the Ikigai with Jennifer Shinkai podcast. This week we talk to author Elizabeth Hendrick about her book EXODAI, a memoir about her struggles with her sexuality and the story of how she eventually learnt to love herself after a particularly toxic BDSM relationship with a Japanese dominatrix. For over a decade Elizabeth’s ikigai compelled her to write about her own experiences in order to help others who have been ostracised for being part of the LGBTQ+ community, and who have struggled with self acceptance, self love and healing.  If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway.  In this episode you’ll hear: About Elizabeth’s memoir EXODAI and what compelled her to write itHow Elizabeth felt ostracised as a young LGBTQ+ person and struggled to reconcile her sexuality with her Christian beliefsWhat made Elizabeth realise she lacked self love and how she decided to heal herselfHow Elizabeth ended up in a torturous relationship with a Japanese dominatrixAbout the dark side of ikigai and how it can be an obsession or addiction Things mentioned in the episode: FEW Japan June Conference: https://fewjapan.com/css-2024-the-fewture-conference/ Buy the EXODAI book here: https://exodai.co.uk/ About Elizabeth: ELIZABETH HENDRICK published her debut work, EXODAI, in September 2023. She was compelled to write about her struggles with her sexuality and narrate the story of how she eventually learnt to love herself as a lesbian woman, placing particular emphasis on her BDSM relationship with a Japanese dominatrix. Elizabeth believes her story will be of value not just to LGBTQ+ and BDSM/fetish communities, but to all individuals who have been ostracised during their adolescence and whose lack of self-love is sabotaging their adult lives. EXODAI is also an intriguing peek behind the curtain of Tokyo’s exotic and sometimes shocking BDSM underworld. Elizabeth was born and raised in East Anglia. She graduated in mathematics from Durham University in 1994 and began a career in financial services in London. In 2004, she left finance to enter the risky world of entrepreneurial start-ups. During her first project to launch a film magazine, she developed the practice of keeping a diary of events. It was her cathartic response to dealing with the stress of heading up an underfunded start-up. Since then, she has kept records and written memoirs covering all her remarkable life experiences, including being a contestant on a reality TV show. In 2016, Elizabeth retired from the corporate world and moved into part-time business education, specifically to focus on her career as a writer. Over the course of her life, she has lived and worked in London, Paris, Tokyo, and Dubai. She currently works and resides in Tokyo, and she doesn't stop writing! Ultimately, Elizabeth is keen to promote self-awareness in the realm of sexuality and bring solace to those who have been ostracised or who lack self-love and acceptance. Connect with Elizabeth: Website: https://www.exodai.co.uk/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@exodai  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exodainarrated/  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@exodaimemoir  Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/exodaimemoir  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554135806819 Connect with Jennifer: Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifershinkai/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifershinkaicoach  Website: https://jennifershinkai.com/  Instagram Coaching and Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/ Instagram Artist: https://www.instagram.com/jennifershinkai/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/

Welcome to another episode of season three of the Ikigai with Jennifer Shinkai podcast. On the podcast this week I got to sit down with Tengyo Kura, a self professed vagabond. Tengyo has a beautiful outlook on life that has propelled him around the world to connect with many people from different cultures, countries and experiences. Vagabondism is how Tengyo lives his life and is directly connected to his ikigai, and is a way for him to experience true connection to other people. Tengyo has some amazing insights to share with you all that will leave you truly inspired to seek out more true connection in your own life! If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway.  In this episode you’ll hear: How teaching languages to students made Tengyo realise he was a storyteller at heartWhy we can never truly understand each other completely, but how love and respect lead to true connectionWhat vagabondism means to Tengyo & what we can learn from people living a vagabond lifeTengyo’s advice for those interested in experiencing vagabondism for themselves About Tengyo Kura: Tengyo was born in 1972, and studied anthropology at a university in Tokyo. Since 2001, Tengyo has been living as a vagabond (stranger) in various parts of the world. Tengyo taught English at a university in Mongolia, was a language teacher at a law school in Sri Lanka and encountered the Tsunami in 2004. He was a lecturer of Contemporary Japanese Culture at a university college in Norway (2005-2009), and organized the Hiroshima A-bomb exhibition in cooperation with the City of Hiroshima and the Nobel Peace Committee in 2008. He was a Japanese language and cultural teacher at a secondary school in Latvia (2011-2012), and was nominated for the Best Teacher Award in the capital city of Riga in 2011.  Tengyo lived in India and other Asian countries and wrote stories for his storytelling work “Chronicle of Vagabondism” in 2013. He collaborated with Latvian artists for the EU Capital of Culture Commemorative Event in Riga, Latvia in 2014. He lived in several countries in South America and wrote stories for his storytelling work “Chronicle of Vagabondism” from 2014 to 2016. Tengyo also created a storytelling artwork "The Tokyo Vagabond x Ueno" in 2017. Tengyo was a storyteller of an exchange program for TURN, a big cultural project initiated by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government (2017-2020). He also worked with Cocoroom, an art NPO in the biggest Japanese homelessness community in Osaka City (2020-2022), and was appointed as a chief member of the NPO in 2022. Tengyo resumed activities in Africa in November 2022, and introduced a Japanese concept of social inclusive programs to countries in the southern part of Africa. Tengyo is now carrying out various activities called African Jamboree 2025 that emphasize cultural exchange between Japan and some African nations until 2025. Connect with Tengyo: Website: https://vagabond.link/ Connect with Jennifer: Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifershinkai/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifershinkaicoach  Website: https://jennifershinkai.com/  Instagram Coaching and Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/ Instagram Artist: https://www.instagram.com/jennifershinkai/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/