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In this episode of the Scaling Japan Podcast, we’re joined by Neil Curtis, founder and CEO of Rising Sun Commerce, who has over a decade of experience helping international brands succeed on Amazon Japan. With hands-on experience supporting Western brands entering Japan, Neil helps companies navigate localization, compliance, and growth in one of the world’s most competitive e-commerce markets. In this episode, Neil explains why many brands fail on Amazon Japan not because of their product, but because they misunderstand how Japanese consumers evaluate trust, risk, and value. If you are a founder, e-commerce leader, or marketer expanding into Japan, this conversation will change how you approach Amazon, localization, and long-term growth. What you’ll learn in this episode: Why Amazon Japan is one of the most competitive and misunderstood marketplaces Why translation is not enough and proper localization is criticalHow Japanese consumers prioritize trust, risk reduction, and detailed information Why brand building matters more than just listing productsHow pricing dynamics and competition impact conversion Why Amazon ads require a long-term investment mindsetHow off-Amazon efforts like influencers and PR improve performance Show Notes 00:00 Introduction to Neil Curtis and Amazon Japan expertise 07:08 Why Amazon Japan is harder than most foreign brands expect 12:45 Why brand building matters more than just listing products 21:00 How Amazon listings, fulfillment, and advertising work in Japan 36:29 How to localize product pages for Japanese consumers 42:15 Why off-Amazon brand building and influencer marketing matter Links from Guest Appearance: 🔗 Neil Curtis – Founder & CEO, Rising Sun Commerce🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neil-curtis/  Coaching with TysonLooking to take your business to the next level? Tyson Batino helps founders scale from $100,000 to $10,000,000 through coaching and advisory. 📈 Learn more: https://scalingyourcompany.com🎤 Send a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/scalingjapanpodcast/message

In this episode of the Scaling Japan Podcast, we’re joined by Stef Curcio, founder of Scale Acquisition AI, who has helped over 200 clients and supported more than 1,000 professionals with LinkedIn lead generation. With hands-on experience building outreach systems, personal brands, and AI-assisted workflows, Stef shares how LinkedIn can still be used as a powerful client acquisition channel in 2026. He explains why many people fail to get results on LinkedIn not because the platform stopped working, but because they misunderstand how trust, visibility, and conversations actually drive conversions. If you are a founder, consultant, agency owner, or B2B operator trying to generate more clients, this conversation will change how you think about LinkedIn content, outbound, and relationship-building. What you’ll learn in this episode: Why LinkedIn is still one of the strongest B2B acquisition channels in 2026 Why silent viewers and profile visitors often become your best leadsHow a simple system of posting and daily outreach can build a consistent pipeline Why personalized DMs can outperform volume-based outreachHow to recognize buying signals and know when to make the ask How to find and validate the right prospects on LinkedInWhere AI can support lead generation without replacing human relationships Show Notes: 00:00 Introduction to Stef Curcio and LinkedIn lead generation 02:21 Why LinkedIn is still powerful for B2B customer acquisition 04:48 How organic reach works and why silent viewers matter 11:21 A simple LinkedIn system for building pipeline 19:19 Relationship-first outreach and when to make the ask 31:22 How to find and validate the right prospects on LinkedIn 37:40 Using AI and automation without losing authenticity Links from Guest Appearance:Stef Curcio : Founder of Scale Acquisition AI 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stef-curcio/  Coaching with Tyson Looking to take your business to the next level? Tyson Batino helps founders scale from $100,000 to $10,000,000 through coaching and advisory. 📈 Learn more: https://scalingyourcompany.com 🎤 Send a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/scalingjapanpodcast/message

In this episode of the Scaling Japan Podcast, we’re joined by Brittany Arthur, Co-Founder and CEO of Design Thinking Japan, and a leader in human-centered AI implementation. With experience working with companies like Nissan, Honda, and Starbucks, Brittany helps organizations move beyond AI hype into real, practical adoption. She is also an official partner of Microsoft’s Elevate Initiative, supporting companies in building AI capability from the ground up. In this episode, Brittany explains why many AI initiatives in Japan fail not because of the technology, but because of gaps in leadership, strategy, and foundational understanding. If you are a founder, executive, or marketer working with AI in Japan, this conversation will change how you approach implementation and scaling. What you’ll learn in this episode: Why AI is a multiplier, not a shortcut, and what that means for leadership Why many AI initiatives fail when treated like side projects The concept of “Minimum Viable Literacy” and what leaders need to understand Why data, ethics, and security are critical for AI success Why AI adoption requires both literacy and experimentationJapan’s opportunity in “physical AI” and monozukuri How Japan can compete globally in the AI era Show Notes 00:00 Introduction to Brittany Arthur and Human-Centered AI 04:33 Japan’s AI Landscape: High Interest but Unclear Starting Point 08:19 AI is a Multiplier: Why Leadership and Strategy Must Come First 12:22 Japan’s Opportunity: From Missed Software Era to Physical AI 16:45 Minimum Viable Literacy: Data, Ethics, Security, and Problem Definition 29:22 AI Adoption = Literacy + Experimentation 39:06 Why Japan Is Positioned to Win: Monozukuri, Culture, and Longevity Links from Guest Appearance: 🔗 Brittany Arthur – Co-Founder & CEO, Design Thinking Japan🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittanyart/  Coaching with Tyson Looking to take your business to the next level? Tyson Batino helps founders scale from $100,000 to $10,000,000 through coaching and advisory. 📈 Learn more: https://scalingyourcompany.com 🎤 Send a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/scalingjapanpodcast/message

In this episode of the Scaling Japan Podcast, we’re joined by Shuma Goko, who has extensive experience supporting global companies with trade shows and event marketing in Japan. With hands-on experience helping foreign companies enter the Japanese market, Shuma shares how trade shows can be used as a powerful go-to-market channel in a country where trust, relationships, and in-person interactions are critical. In this episode, Shuma explains why many companies fail to generate results from trade shows in Japan not because of the channel itself, but because they misunderstand how Japanese buyers evaluate vendors and build trust. If you are a founder or marketer entering Japan, this conversation will change how you think about offline GTM, localization, and lead conversion. In This Episode, We Cover: Why trade shows are still essential in Japan’s trust-based business culture How face-to-face interaction and product experience impact buying decisions The industries where trade shows perform best, including tech, manufacturing, food, and lifestyle The most common mistakes foreign companies make, especially around localization and follow-up Why clarity in messaging matters more than flashy booth design The reality that only about 10 percent of attendees are decision-makers How fast and structured follow-up within 24 to 48 hours drives conversions Show Notes : 00:00 Introduction to Shuma and global trade show experience 06:00 Why trade shows still matter in Japan 09:53 Best industries for trade shows 12:29 Common mistakes foreign companies make 19:04 What makes a booth stand out 20:30 Who actually attends trade shows in Japan 28:22 Why follow-up is critical for conversion Links from Guest Appearance: Shuma Goko : Founder and Producer at OUTBOUND K.K. 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shuma-goko-08152732/  📩 Want more insights? Subscribe to our newsletter for Japan business resources and upcoming event invites: 💌 https://scalingyourcompany.com/blog/#newsletter 🎤 Scaling Japan Podcast Grow your business in Japan with Tyson Batino 📱 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube & more 🌐⁠⁠ https://scalingyourcompany.com/podcast/⁠⁠

Most foreign SaaS companies struggle to land even a handful of enterprise clients in Japan. Shay Khosrowshahi helped scale Ulife to 50+ B2B customers in just 18 months, largely through strategic partnerships. In this episode of the Scaling Japan Podcast, we break down how he did it. Shay is the co-founder of NXL and former Managing Director of Ulife APAC. After a 100M investment, he was sent to Japan to launch and scale the business in one of the most credibility-driven markets in the world. We explore what partnerships really mean in Japan, how to align incentives with distribution partners, and why most founders underestimate the level of commitment required to succeed here. Shay shares tactical insights on discovery calls, partner qualification, internal champions, cultural misalignment, and how to create momentum that compounds over time. If you are a SaaS founder, CRO, or GTM leader entering Japan, this episode offers a practical partnership blueprint grounded in real execution. In This Episode, We Cover: What a partnership actually means in the Japanese market Distribution partners vs strategic alliances Why hunger and ambition matter more than brand size The 70/30 discovery framework for qualifying partners How to forecast revenue impact to align incentives Managing harmony culture while still driving urgency Why early wins create long-term momentum When to double down or exit a partnership Why getting direct customers first gives you leverage Guest Appearance: 🔗 Shay Khosrowshahi LinkedIn 🌐 NXL : www.yournextlevel.io Show Notes : 00:01 Introduction to Shay and his Japan scaling journey 02:09 Defining partnerships in the Japan context 03:11 Types of partnerships that worked 06:39 How to vet partners and why hunger matters 10:47 The 70/30 discovery call framework 17:21 Training partners and building internal champions 29:20 Cultural hurdles and harmony-driven challenges 38:21 Measuring partnership health beyond revenue 45:32 Final advice on commitment in Japan 46:31 Why direct traction strengthens partnership leverage 📩 Want more insights? Subscribe to our newsletter for Japan business resources and upcoming event invites: 💌 https://scalingyourcompany.com/blog/#newsletter 🎤 Scaling Japan Podcast Grow your business in Japan with Tyson Batino 📱 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube & more 🌐⁠ https://scalingyourcompany.com/podcast/⁠

In this episode of the Scaling Japan Podcast, we explore the world of copywriting in Japan, a critical but often misunderstood part of doing business in the Japanese market. We’re joined by Yuji Kobayashi, CEO of Kakusha and lead Japanese copywriter for Scaling Your Company, and Asama Toyozawa, CMO of AI Market with past experience at global firms like Spotify and Taboola. Together, we unpack why trust-based messaging, tone, and phrasing are essential for success in Japan and how Western-style copywriting can fall flat if not localized properly. From dissecting campaigns by brands like Nike Japan to understanding how language and psychology influence consumer behavior, this episode offers practical tips and cultural insights for businesses targeting Japanese customers. Whether you're a founder, marketer, or localization professional, this is a must-listen episode for creating Japanese copy that converts. 🎧 Listen to learn: Why direct copy fails in Japan and what to do instead How Japanese consumers read trust (and spot inauthenticity) Cultural reasons behind soft, inviting phrasing in Japanese marketing The difference between writing for LINE, Instagram, and websites Examples of both good and bad Japanese copy (and why they work or don’t) When to use polite vs casual language across platforms Why buzzwords rarely work in Japanese copywriting How font and character choice can make or break trust Guest Appearance: 🔗 Yuji Kobayashi on LinkedIn 🔗 Asama Toyozawa on LinkedIn 🔗 Asama’s AI Market Website Show Notes: 00:00 - Introduction & Guest Backgrounds 03:36 - Why Copywriting is Critical in Japan 05:37 - Good Copywriting Examples 08:00 - Building Trust for Small Businesses 10:40 - Second-Hand Bookstore Case Study 12:43 - AI Market's Copywriting Journey 17:10 - Font Mistakes & Trust Issues 18:37 - Japanese vs Western Copywriting Differences 20:00 - Making Copy More Welcoming 22:41 - Formality Levels Across Platforms 24:05 - Expressing Results Differently 26:06 - Translation & Localization Challenges 27:58 - Buzzwords of the Year 32:00 - Why Not to Use Buzzwords in Marketing 36:05 - Platform-Specific Copywriting Strategies 39:05 - Instagram Text Layout & Eye Scanning 41:07 - Video vs Static Performance 43:06 - Closing Thoughts 📩 Want more insights? Subscribe to our newsletter for Japan business resources and upcoming event invites:💌 https://scalingyourcompany.com/blog/#newsletter 🎤 Scaling Japan Podcast Grow your business in Japan with Tyson Batino 📱 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube & more 🌐 https://scalingyourcompany.com/podcast/

In this episode of the Scaling Japan Podcast, we’re joined by Anna Skrypka, a cultural AI strategist, creative director, and founder of Anna Skrypka Studio. Anna is also the creator of the Augmented Human Method, a framework that unifies cultural intelligence and AI-powered go-to-market (GTM) strategy. With over 15 years of experience in global tech and nearly a decade in Japan, Anna has helped scale SaaS and creative tech businesses for companies like Autodesk and Woven by Toyota. She now advises startups and corporates on how to enter and scale in Japan using culturally intelligent GTM systems. In this episode, Anna shares how most startups are failing their Japan GTM — not because of product issues, but because they ignore cultural trust signals and scale with AI in the wrong direction. If you're a founder or marketer entering Japan, this conversation will change how you think about localization, AI workflows, and market fit. What you’ll learn in this episode: Why Japan is a high-context market and how it changes buyer behavior How cultural intelligence improves GTM messaging and product resonance The 3 biggest GTM traps (Great Translation Fallacy, Silent Excellence Trap, AI Acceleration Paradox) How to use AI marketing workflows with cultural nuance Visual and narrative localization: what most GTMs miss Japan tech trends to watch in 2026 Show Notes: 00:00 – Introduction 02:40 – Cultural Intelligence: The Missing Piece in Japan GTM Strategy 06:23 – Trust Signals and Misconceptions About “Difficult” Japan 12:04 – 3 Big GTM Traps Companies Fall Into 20:59 – AI Workflows for Culturally Intelligent Marketing 34:50 – Visual Localization and Creative AI Tools 43:33 – 5 Questions to Diagnose If Your Japan GTM Will Fail Links from Guest Appearance: 🔗 Anna Skrypka – Founder, Anna Skrypka Studio 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annaskrypka/ 🔗 Website: https://annaskrypka.substack.com/ 📄 Case Study: The AI Marketing Workflow That Actually Works in Japan https://annaskrypka.substack.com/p/the-ai-marketing-workflow-that-actually?utm_source=publication-search Coaching with Tyson Looking to take your business to the next level? Let our host Tyson Batino help you scale your business from $100,000 to $10,000,000 with his coaching and advisory services. 📈 Visit here to learn how he can help 🎤 Send in a voice message:⁠ https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/scalingjapanpodcast/message⁠

In this follow-up to Part 1, we continue our conversation with Ryosuke (Ryo) Murai, CEO and co-founder of AI Market and former CSO of Connected Robotics, where he led a ¥1.7B Series B raise. This episode is all about how to stand out as a potential co-founder, what really matters during the decision-making process, and how to build a founding team that can last, especially in the Japan startup ecosystem. Ryo shares his perspective on the co-founder "dating process," how to assess fit beyond just skills, and why 3 co-founders ended up being the right structure for their team. If you're thinking about starting a company in Japan, or advising someone who is, this is an honest and practical look at how co-founder partnerships are actually formed. What you’ll learn in this episode: What founders look for when choosing a co-founder How to communicate your vision without overhyping Why startup experience isn’t everything (and what matters more) The emotional and mindset fit behind great co-founder teams Why AI Market chose to bring on a third co-founder Show Notes:00:00 – Introduction and recap from Part 101:34 – What makes someone stand out as a co-founder04:50 – Selling your vision and framing your skills09:00 – Is track record necessary? What else matters?14:05 – Dating analogy continued: chemistry and red flags19:50 – Co-founder role clarity and team structure23:40 – Why 3 co-founders worked better than 228:12 – Final thoughts for founders entering the co-founder search Guest:Ryosuke (Ryo) Murai – CEO & Co-founder, AI MarketLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryosukemurai/ Coaching with Tyson Looking to take your business to the next level? Let our host Tyson Batino help you scale your business from $100,000 to $10,000,000 with his coaching and advisory services. 📈 Visit here to learn how he can help 🎤 Send in a voice message:⁠ https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/scalingjapanpodcast/message⁠

In this episode of the Scaling Japan Podcast, we’re joined by Ryosuke (Ryo) Murai, CEO and co-founder of AI Market and former CSO of Connected Robotics, where he led a ¥1.7B Series B raise. Ryo shares what it actually takes to find a strong co-founder in Japan and opens up about how he and Tyson teamed up to start AI Market. This is Part 1 of a two-part conversation where we dive deep into co-founder decision-making, mindset alignment, storytelling, and early fundraising strategy in Japan. If you're planning to launch a startup in Japan or are in the early stages of finding a co-founder, this episode is packed with practical insights from two operators who have done it. What you’ll learn in this episode: Why Ryo decided not to launch solo What makes someone an attractive co-founder How to sell your startup vision to a potential co-founder Where to actually meet co-founders in Japan The importance of founder-market fit and track record Why AI Market chose to bootstrap with angels instead of raising VC Show Notes00:00 – Introduction 02:27 – Why Ryo decided to look for a co-founder 04:08 – How Ryo and Tyson met and decided to team up 06:52 – What makes an attractive co-founder 13:58 – Selling your vision and founder-market fit 27:40 – Co-founder fit is like dating 30:03 – Where to find co-founders in Japan 35:04 – The Benefits of Having Three Co-Founders 38:00 – External Resources: Accelerators and LinkedIn 41:40 – Why AI Market didn’t raise VC and chose angel funding 45:20 – Alternative Funding Strategy with Angel Investors  Stay tuned for Part 2! Links from Guest Appearance: 🔗 Connect with Ryosuke (Ryo) Murai on LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryosukemurai/  Coaching with Tyson Looking to take your business to the next level? Let our host Tyson Batino help you scale your business from $100,000 to $10,000,000 with his coaching and advisory services. 📈 Visit here to learn how he can help 🎤 Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/scalingjapanpodcast/message

In this episode of the Scaling Japan Podcast, we welcome Ignacio Dávalos, Content Strategy Director at AIM B2B (a Custom Media company), and an experienced marketer who has led multi-channel B2B and B2C strategies for global brands like L’Oréal, Gengo, and Lionbridge. Ignacio breaks down how LINE Ads work in Japan, why they are so effective across multiple industries, and how the platform differs from Western advertising tools like Meta. He explains the ad formats that perform best, how targeting works using Yahoo Japan’s data, and why the LINE Official Account is essential for converting and nurturing leads. He also shares B2C and B2B case studies, full-funnel strategies, CRM integration recommendations, and the most common mistakes foreign companies make when using LINE Ads. If you’re a marketer, founder, or advertiser looking to grow in Japan, this episode gives you a tactical, platform-specific playbook for succeeding with LINE. This episode is sponsored by Custom Media, Tokyo’s leading integrated marketing and PR agency since 2008, helping global brands expand across Japan and APAC. They can help you with: Localized storytelling to build trust in Asian markets Strategic performance marketing (LINE Ads, LinkedIn Ads, GEO, SEO) Account-based marketing (ABM) and paid media HubSpot-certified CRM & marketing automation Data-driven implementation with cultural expertise 🔗 Learn more about AIM B2B : https://hi.switchy.io/h7TM  01:35 – Guest Introduction 03:54 – Introduction to LINE’s role in Japan 05:08 – LINE vs Meta comparison 07:20 – Ideal industries for LINE Ads 08:24 – LINE's lead-generation features 11:42 – B2C & B2B case studies 15:32 – LINE ad formats (VOOM, Smart Channel, more) 18:06 – Best video ad length 19:01 – Targeting using Yahoo Japan data 24:48 – Full-funnel strategy with LINE 27:10 – LINE Official Account features 30:42 – CRM integration via LINE API 32:50 – Common mistakes foreign companies make 35:16 – Misconceptions about LINE 35:57 – Advanced B2B funnel (LINE → LinkedIn) 38:16 – Future of LINE (AI integration & B2B growth) 41:37 – Ignacio’s upcoming GEO seminar Connect with Ignacio Davalos on LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/ignaciodavalos  Link to GEO Strategy Online Webinar from AIM B2B: https://aim-b2b.com/lp/the-master-generative-engine-optimization-strategy/  Looking to take your business to the next level? Let our host Tyson Batino help you scale your company from $100,000 to $10,000,000 with personalized coaching and advisory.🎤 Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/scalingjapanpodcast/message

In this episode of the Scaling Japan Podcast, we welcome Ignacio Davalos, Content Strategy Director at AIM B2B (a Custom Media company) and an experienced marketer who has led full-funnel B2B and B2C programs for brands like L’Oréal, Gengo, and Lionbridge. Ignacio breaks down how LinkedIn is actually used in Japan, who the real users are, what types of campaigns perform well, and why Western lead-generation playbooks often fail when applied to the Japanese market. He shares practical insights on localization, targeting, tool integrations, and campaign structure, backed by multiple real case studies. If you're a marketer, consultant, or B2B advertiser looking to run LinkedIn campaigns in Japan, this episode gives you a tactical, Japan-specific guide to what works and what doesn’t. This episode is sponsored by Custom Media, Tokyo’s leading integrated marketing and PR agency since 2008, helping global brands expand across Japan and APAC. They can help you with: Localized storytelling to build trust in Asian markets Strategic performance marketing (including LinkedIn Ads) Account-based marketing (ABM), paid media, GEO, and SEO HubSpot-certified CRM and marketing automation Data-driven implementation with cultural expertise Learn more about AIM B2B here: https://hi.switchy.io/h7TM 00:29 – Introduction 00:56 – Guest Introduction 03:03 – LinkedIn user numbers & growth 07:09 – User demographics in Japan 11:41 – Competitors to LinkedIn 14:10 – How Western companies use LinkedIn 15:50 – How Japan uses LinkedIn differently 18:34 – Japanese vs Western tool integrations 26:30 – French newspaper case study 28:50 – Strengths of LinkedIn as an ad platform 34:39 – Cybersecurity case study 37:29 – How to build a successful awareness-phase campaign 40:10 – Localization of messaging & targeting 48:23 – Japanese vs English ads 49:50 – Pitfall: MBA campaign with low results 51:16 – Common mistakes in follow-up and nurturing Connect with Ignacio Davalos on LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/ignaciodavalos  Link to GEO Strategy Online Webinar from AIM B2B: https://aim-b2b.com/lp/the-master-generative-engine-optimization-strategy/  Looking to take your business to the next level?Let our host Tyson Batino help you scale your company from $100,000 to $10,000,000 with personalized coaching and advisory. 🎤 Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/scalingjapanpodcast/message

In this episode of the Scaling Japan Podcast, we welcome Sam Bird, a marketing and communications executive with over two decades of experience in digital strategy, business development, and B2B marketing. He has served as COO of Custom Media and AIM B2B, and has trained executives and multinational teams across Japan. Sam breaks down how AI is transforming search behavior, and why traditional SEO tactics no longer guarantee visibility in AI-generated results from tools like ChatGPT, Bing Copilot, and Perplexity. He explains the growing importance of GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) and AEO (Answer Engine Optimization), what companies are getting wrong when adapting, and how businesses in Japan can take advantage of the current AI adoption gap. If you’re a marketer, consultant, or content strategist looking to stay ahead of the AI curve, especially in Japan, this episode is your inside guide to the future of search. AIM B2B – Integrated Marketing & PR in Asia This episode is sponsored by Custom Media, Tokyo’s leading integrated marketing and PR agency since 2008, helping global brands expand across Japan and APAC. They can help you with: Localized storytelling to build trust in Asian markets Strategic performance marketing for measurable growth Account‑based marketing (ABM), paid media, GEO, and SEO HubSpot‑certified CRM & marketing automation Data‑driven implementation with cultural expertise ⁠🔗 Learn more about AIM B2B ➜ https://hi.switchy.io/h7TM Link to GEO Strategy Guide from AIM B2B : https://aim-b2b.com/lp/the-master-generative-engine-optimization-strategy Show Notes: Show Notes:00:00 – Introduction 02:19 – What is GEO and How is it Different from SEO? 06:06 – Are GEO and AI Searches being done in Japan? 08:01 – Can You Rank on Google and NOT Appear in AI Searches? 14:47 – AI Adoption and Usage in Japan 18:23 – What LLMs are Popular in Japan? 21:11 – Mistakes Companies Make Switching to GEO/AEO 26:01 – How LLM and GEO/AEO Fit in Content Marketing 31:51 – Best Practices for GEO/AEO 34:00 – GEO in B2B Strategy Coaching with Tyson Looking to take your business to the next level? Let our host Tyson Batino help you scale your business from $100,000 to $10,000,000 with his coaching and advisory services. 📈 Visit here to learn how he can help 🎤 Send in a voice message:⁠ https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/scalingjapanpodcast/message⁠

In this episode of the Scaling Japan Podcast, we welcome back Kenneth Jeng, Product + Operations Lead at Persona, and experienced contributor to startup ecosystems in both Japan and the U.S. This is Part 2 of our conversation with Kenneth, recorded in November 2024, and focused on the human side of ecosystem building, community, culture, and mindset. Kenneth shares why Japan continues to struggle with early-stage adoption and authentic community building, and how individuals (not just public programs) must take initiative. He also gives a candid take on grant structures, founder engagement, and what real progress could look like. If you’re a founder, policymaker, or ecosystem builder working in Japan, this episode offers a unique lens on what’s still missing and what we can each do to contribute. AIM B2B – Integrated Marketing & PR in Asia This episode is sponsored by Custom Media, Tokyo’s leading integrated marketing and PR agency since 2008, helping global brands expand across Japan and APAC. They can help you with: Localized storytelling to build trust in Asian markets Strategic performance marketing for measurable growth Account‑based marketing (ABM), paid media, GEO, and SEO HubSpot‑certified CRM & marketing automation Data‑driven implementation with cultural expertise ⁠Learn more about AIM B2B Show Notes: 00:00 – Introduction 00:43 – Hot Take on Challenges and Gaps 14:00 – Why People are Involved in Startup Ecosystem and Why in Japan 16:20 – Building Network 22:15 – Early Adopters or Not? 27:10 – Contributing to the Community 36:20 – Grants and Funding for Startups 42:00 – Last Messages and Hot Takes Links from Guest Appearance: 🔗 Connect with Kenneth Jeng on LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kennethjeng/ Coaching with Tyson Looking to take your business to the next level? Let our host Tyson Batino help you scale your business from $100,000 to $10,000,000 with his coaching and advisory services. 📈 Visit here to learn how he can help 🎤 Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/scalingjapanpodcast/message

In this episode of the Scaling Japan Podcast, we’re joined by Kenneth Jeng, a Japan Startup Ecosystem Veteran and a long-time ecosystem builder who has worked across the U.S. and Japan. This is Part 1 of a two-part series recorded in November 2024 with Kenneth. Kenneth shares hard-hitting insights on what’s really holding Japan’s startup ecosystem back — from the cultural and structural roadblocks to limited business development capabilities and lingering visa barriers for foreign entrepreneurs. He offers a rare comparison between Japan and the U.S. startup environments, outlining why IPOs in Japan don’t function like exits, how the country’s high living standards may be dulling entrepreneurial hunger, and why so many promising startups stall before reaching scale. If you're a founder, investor, or policymaker interested in Japan's startup space, this is a must-listen for understanding where things stand and what’s starting to change. Stay tuned for Part 2 where we go deeper into founder mindsets, investor culture, and the future of Japan’s startup growth. AIM B2B – Integrated Marketing & PR in Asia This episode is sponsored by Custom Media, Tokyo’s leading integrated marketing and PR agency since 2008, helping global brands expand across Japan and APAC. They can help you with: - Localized storytelling to build trust in Asian markets - Strategic performance marketing for measurable growth - Account‑based marketing (ABM), paid media, GEO, and SEO - HubSpot‑certified CRM & marketing automation - Data‑driven implementation with cultural expertise Learn more about AIM B2B Show Notes: 00:00 – Introduction 02:55 – Differences in Ecosystems 07:45– Current Narratives and Trends 12:38 – IPO in Japan 16:27 – Immigration and Visa for Startups in Japan 18:57 – Living Standard in Japan for Entrepreneurs 26:30 – Pros of Japan Startup Ecosystem 31:20 – Venturing and Scaling 41:42 – Comparing Growth Rate 46:30 – Importance of Business Development & Team 51:17 – Scaling in Japan Links from Guest Appearance: 🔗 Connect with Kenneth Jeng on LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kennethjeng/ Coaching with Tyson Looking to take your business to the next level? Let our host Tyson Batino help you scale your business from $100,000 to $10,000,000 with his coaching and advisory services. 📈 Visit here to learn how he can help 🎤 Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/scalingjapanpodcast/message

In this episode of the Scaling Japan Podcast, we welcome back Rina Sakuraba, Founder and CEO of Coaching Leaders Japan, for Part 2 of our deep dive into Japanese communication and leadership culture. Rina breaks down two essential concepts that drive how people communicate and make decisions in Japan, Honne (true feelings) and Tatemae (public face). These cultural dynamics impact everything from feedback and trust to accountability and external negotiations. You’ll learn how to spot the subtle signs of Tatemae, how to encourage honest feedback (Honne) in your teams, and how to avoid miscommunication that could derail a project. If you’re a business leader, consultant, or team member operating in Japan, this episode is packed with real-world examples and practical strategies to help you build stronger, more transparent relationships in a culturally respectful way. AIM B2B – Integrated Marketing & PR in Asia This episode is sponsored by Custom Media, Tokyo’s leading integrated marketing and PR agency since 2008. They have recently rebranded to AIM B2B, helping global brands expand across Japan and APAC. • Localized storytelling to build trust in Asian markets • Strategic performance marketing for measurable growth • Account‑based marketing (ABM), paid media, GEO, and SEO • HubSpot‑certified CRM & marketing automation • Data‑driven implementation with cultural expertise Learn more about AIM B2B : hi.switchy.io/h7TM  Show Notes: 00:00 – Introduction 01:47 – What is Ho-Ne and Ta-te-maye? 15:16 – How does Ho-Ne and Ta-te-maye affect business? 23:21 – Management, Ho-Ne and Ta-te-maye 26:30 – How to balance Ho-Ne and Ta-te-maye in meetings 30:31 – Applying it in external negotiation with companies 34:20 – How do you know if someone is speaking Ta-te-maye? 43:10 – Methods to gently express Ho-Ne 46:30 – Accountability 49:10 – Key Notes Links from Guest Appearance: 🔗 Connect with Rina Sakuraba on LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/rinasakuraba/ 🔗 Coaching Leaders Japan – https://coachingleadersjapan.com/ Coaching with Tyson Looking to take your business to the next level? Let our host Tyson Batino help you scale your business from $100,000 to $10,000,000 with his coaching and advisory services. 📈 Visit here to learn how he can help 🎤 Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/scalingjapanpodcast/message