The Samurai Way: Mastering Business & Life with Samurai Wisdom

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

In this special two-part conversation on The Samurai Way Podcast , I had the pleasure of speaking with Bob Low , a content creator, business professional, and host of the Asian Century Podcast. We had such an engaging conversation covering Asia, culture, communication, business, and how we connect in an increasingly global world. In our conversation, we discussed: • Bob’s journey hosting the Asian Century Podcast and his passion for sharing stories from business leaders across Asia • Why this is an important time for Asia, with growing opportunities in business, innovation, and technology • Cultural differences between East and West and how they shape communication • How different cultures approach disagreement, conflict, and self-expression • The importance of relationships, respect, and hierarchy when doing business in many parts of Asia • Why direct communication and self-promotion can feel very different across cultures • The importance of recognizing cultural cues and adapting how we communicate • How technology, media, and the Internet are bringing people and cultures closer together • Why we should avoid broad assumptions and recognize that every person and community is unique As someone passionate about Japanese culture and connecting people across cultures, I truly enjoyed this conversation with Bob. I hope it gives you a deeper appreciation for the diversity and richness of Asia and the world around us. Connect with Bob Low: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobthinks/ Booking Link: https://calendly.com/bobthinkz88/15min Be sure to connect with Bob and follow his work as he continues sharing stories and insights from across Asia and around the world. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this two-part conversation on The Samurai Way Podcast, I sit down with Mark Papadas, founder of I Am For Kids, to explore how we can help children build unshakable confidence through the power of identity. Mark believes every child is born believing in their own “I AM,” and our responsibility is to protect and strengthen that belief. We talk about identity, character, courage, curiosity, resilience, and never giving up by connecting his work with the timeless Japanese principles of Bushido, Ikigai, and Ganbaru, developing modern-day Samurai warriors! Mark shares inspiring stories and simple ways parents, teachers, and mentors can help children recognize their strengths, overcome negative patterns, and believe in what they are capable of. We’re reminded that our past does not have to define our future—and who we believe we are shaping how we live. And as Mark says: Be Great! I AM. Connect with Mark Papadas 📖 New Book: iam4kidsbook.com 🌐 Website: iam4kids.com 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Be Great! Family Reset Every Sunday Night (FREE): https://events.iam4kids.com/sunday-night-family-reset Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this two-part conversation on The Samurai Way Podcast, I sit down with Mark Papadas, founder of I Am For Kids, to explore how we can help children build unshakable confidence through the power of identity. Mark believes every child is born believing in their own “I AM,” and our responsibility is to protect and strengthen that belief. We talk about identity, character, courage, curiosity, resilience, and never giving up by connecting his work with the timeless Japanese principles of Bushido, Ikigai, and Ganbaru, developing modern-day Samurai warriors! Mark shares inspiring stories and simple ways parents, teachers, and mentors can help children recognize their strengths, overcome negative patterns, and believe in what they are capable of. We’re reminded that our past does not have to define our future—and who we believe we are shaping how we live. And as Mark says: Be Great! I AM. Connect with Mark Papadas 📖 New Book: iam4kidsbook.com 🌐 Website: iam4kids.com 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Be Great! Family Reset Every Sunday Night (FREE): https://events.iam4kids.com/sunday-night-family-reset Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this two-part conversation on The Samurai Way Podcast, I sit down with internationally-acclaimed speaker and author Céline Santini to explore the beautiful Japanese art and philosophy of Kintsugi. In Part 1, Céline shares how she discovered Kintsugi during one of the most challenging periods of her life and how the image of a broken bowl repaired with golden lines changed the way she viewed her own struggles. We talk about resilience, healing, imperfection, and turning brokenness into strength. In Part 2, we go deeper into Céline's six-step Kintsugi-inspired process and how we can apply these principles to our own lives. We explore how our scars can become part of our story and how difficult experiences can be transformed into something meaningful. This conversation is a reminder that we don't have to hide the cracks. Sometimes, the places where we have been broken can become the places where our strength, resilience, and beauty shine through. I also share part of my own journey and how the challenges I experienced led me toward a new path as an author, speaker, and podcast host. I hope these two episodes inspire you to look at your own scars differently and discover the gold within your story. Connect with Céline Santini 🌐 Website: https://kintsugi-spirit.com/ 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/celinesantini/ 📖 Book: https://kintsugi-spirit.com/books/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this two-part conversation on The Samurai Way Podcast , I sit down with internationally-acclaimed speaker and author Céline Santini to explore the beautiful Japanese art and philosophy of Kintsugi . In Part 1 , Céline shares how she discovered Kintsugi during one of the most challenging periods of her life and how the image of a broken bowl repaired with golden lines changed the way she viewed her own struggles. We talk about resilience, healing, imperfection, and turning brokenness into strength . In Part 2 , we go deeper into Céline's six-step Kintsugi-inspired process and how we can apply these principles to our own lives. We explore how our scars can become part of our story and how difficult experiences can be transformed into something meaningful. This conversation is a reminder that we don't have to hide the cracks. Sometimes, the places where we have been broken can become the places where our strength, resilience, and beauty shine through . I also share part of my own journey and how the challenges I experienced led me toward a new path as an author, speaker, and podcast host. I hope these two episodes inspire you to look at your own scars differently and discover the gold within your story . Connect with Céline Santini Website: https://kintsugi-spirit.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/celinesantini/ Book: https://kintsugi-spirit.com/books/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special two-part conversation on The Samurai Way Podcast, I sit down with Stephanie Vieira, an author, certified Ikigai life coach, speaker, and trauma survivor, to explore her powerful journey from trauma and survival to healing, gratitude, joy, and purpose. Stephanie shares her story of growing up with abuse, experiencing coaching abuse as a young competitive swimmer, and eventually beginning the difficult but transformative journey of healing through recovery, therapy, shadow work, and mindfulness. At a turning point in her life, Stephanie asked the universe for guidance. The answer was gratitude. That discovery became a doorway to something deeper: Ikigai. Together, we explore Ikigai beyond the Western Venn diagram and career-focused formula. Stephanie shares how reconnecting with the things she loved as a child helped her rediscover parts of herself that had been buried by trauma, and how small moments of joy can become meaningful reasons to engage with life. We also talk about something many of us can relate to: losing our identity in our careers. After more than two decades in hospitality, Stephanie realized she had become defined by her job title. Today, she helps others discover that their career does not define them. Who you are goes much deeper than what you do. And perhaps one of the most powerful lessons from our conversation is that gratitude does not mean ignoring pain. Pain and gratitude can coexist. Stephanie explains how her past is part of her story, but it doesn't have to be part of her present. By practicing mindfulness, noticing the small things, and reconnecting with what brings us joy, we can begin moving from survival toward a life of greater meaning and purpose. This is a conversation about healing, resilience, gratitude, identity, and Ikigai. If you've ever felt lost, defined by your career, disconnected from yourself, or unsure of your purpose, Stephanie's story offers a beautiful reminder: You can heal. You can rediscover yourself. And you can find joy again. Join us for both episodes of The Samurai Way Podcast as Stephanie and I explore the journey from trauma to healing, from survival to gratitude, and from gratitude to Ikigai. Connect with Stephanie: Website: https://www.coachstephnewpaths.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-vieira-ikigainewpaths/... Book: https://www.amazon.com/Art-Gratitude-Practices-Rebuild-Neurodivergent-Friendly/dp/B0G3M6LQR6 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special two-part conversation on The Samurai Way Podcast, I sit down with Stephanie Vieira, an author, certified Ikigai life coach, speaker, and trauma survivor, to explore her powerful journey from trauma and survival to healing, gratitude, joy, and purpose. Stephanie shares her story of growing up with abuse, experiencing coaching abuse as a young competitive swimmer, and eventually beginning the difficult but transformative journey of healing through recovery, therapy, shadow work, and mindfulness. At a turning point in her life, Stephanie asked the universe for guidance. The answer was gratitude. That discovery became a doorway to something deeper: Ikigai. Together, we explore Ikigai beyond the Western Venn diagram and career-focused formula. Stephanie shares how reconnecting with the things she loved as a child helped her rediscover parts of herself that had been buried by trauma, and how small moments of joy can become meaningful reasons to engage with life. We also talk about something many of us can relate to: losing our identity in our careers. After more than two decades in hospitality, Stephanie realized she had become defined by her job title. Today, she helps others discover that their career does not define them. Who you are goes much deeper than what you do. And perhaps one of the most powerful lessons from our conversation is that gratitude does not mean ignoring pain. Pain and gratitude can coexist. Stephanie explains how her past is part of her story, but it doesn't have to be part of her present. By practicing mindfulness, noticing the small things, and reconnecting with what brings us joy, we can begin moving from survival toward a life of greater meaning and purpose. This is a conversation about healing, resilience, gratitude, identity, and Ikigai. If you've ever felt lost, defined by your career, disconnected from yourself, or unsure of your purpose, Stephanie's story offers a beautiful reminder: You can heal. You can rediscover yourself. And you can find joy again. Join us for both episodes of The Samurai Way Podcast as Stephanie and I explore the journey from trauma to healing, from survival to gratitude, and from gratitude to Ikigai. Connect with Stephanie: Website : https://www.coachstephnewpaths.com/ LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-vieira-ikigainewpaths/... Book : https://www.amazon.com/Art-Gratitude-Practices-Rebuild-Neurodivergent-Friendly/dp/B0G3M6LQR6 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In Part 3, the final chapter of my powerful conversation with award-winning author, speaker, and resilience coach Sara Im, we continue her extraordinary journey from the Cambodian Killing Fields toward freedom, family, hope, and a new beginning. Sara survived starvation, forced labor, illness, fear, and unimaginable uncertainty under the Khmer Rouge regime. Through it all, she held onto one powerful goal: to survive and someday be reunited with her family. In this final part of her story, we explore what happened after years of hardship and survival, and how Sara found the strength to move forward and build a life filled with purpose. In this episode, we discuss: Sara's journey toward freedom and a new beginning The importance of family, faith, and hope in her life How she learned to move forward after unimaginable adversity How her experiences shaped her purpose and mission The resilience it takes to rebuild your life after trauma How Sara's story reflects the Japanese principle of Ganbaru Sara's story reminds us that our darkest chapter does not have to be the end of our story. Sometimes, surviving is just the beginning. Her journey is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and a reminder that hope, purpose, and perseverance can help us create a new beginning. If Sara's story inspires you, please subscribe to The Samurai Way Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs a reminder that it is never too late to move forward. Until next time, keep living with courage, honor, and the spirit of Ganbaru. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In Part 2 of The Samurai Way Podcast, I continue my powerful conversation with award-winning author, speaker, and resilience coach Sara Im as she shares the next chapter of her extraordinary journey of survival during the Cambodian Killing Fields. After enduring starvation, forced labor, illness, fear, and separation from her family, Sara faced an unimaginable question: how do you keep going when you don't know if tomorrow will be any better? Yet Sara held onto one thing that could not be taken from her: hope. Her love for her family became a source of strength and gave her a reason to keep moving forward, even when she had no idea when the suffering would end. In this episode, we explore: How Sara continued to survive despite worsening conditions The fear and uncertainty of being separated from her family How love became her motivation to keep going Why having a purpose can give us strength in the darkest moments The connection between Sara's resilience and the Japanese principle of Ganbaru What courage looks like when you are simply trying to survive another day Sara's story reminds us that courage isn't always a dramatic act. Sometimes, courage is simply choosing not to give up. And her journey isn't over. In Part 3, we continue Sara's story and discover what happened next as she moved closer to freedom, reunion, and a new chapter of her life. If Sara's story moves you, please subscribe to The Samurai Way Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs a reminder that hope can carry us through even the darkest moments. Until next time, keep living with courage, honor, and the spirit of Ganbaru. About Sara Im Sara Im is an award-winning author, international speaker, resilience coach, and survivor of the Cambodian genocide. After enduring the horrors of the Khmer Rouge regime, she transformed her extraordinary story of survival into a mission of inspiring others to live with resilience, faith, hope, and purpose while enduring the Killing Fields. Through her speaking, writing, and coaching, Sara empowers individuals and organizations to overcome adversity, embrace purpose, and discover the strength to persevere through life's greatest challenges. Her journey is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the life-changing power of never giving up. Website: https://www.saraim.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-im/ Subscribe to The Samurai Way Podcast for inspiring conversations on Japanese wisdom, resilience, leadership, history, and living a meaningful life. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this powerful episode of The Samurai Way Podcast, I have the privilege of sitting down with award-winning author, speaker, and resilience coach Sara Im to hear one of the most extraordinary stories of courage I've ever encountered. Sara survived the Cambodian Killing Fields under the Khmer Rouge regime, enduring unimaginable hardship, starvation, forced labor, and illness. Yet through it all, she never lost sight of one goal: to survive and be reunited with her family. As I listened to Sara share her journey, I couldn't help but think of the Japanese principle of Ganbaru—the unwavering determination to keep moving forward, even when the path seems impossible. Her story is a remarkable example of resilience, hope, and the incredible strength of the human spirit. In this episode, we discuss: Sara's peaceful childhood before everything changed What life was really like inside the Cambodian labor camps How love for her family gave her the strength to keep going Why purpose can be the key to surviving life's greatest challenges How the spirit of Ganbaru can inspire us to face our own adversity This is Part 1 of Sara's incredible journey, and I promise you'll be on the edge of your seat as her story unfolds. Be sure to join us for Part 2, where you'll discover what happened next and how hope continued to guide her forward. If Sara's story encourages you, please subscribe to The Samurai Way Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs a reminder that even in our darkest moments, hope and perseverance can light the way. Until next time, keep living with courage, honor, and the spirit of Ganbaru. About Sara Im Sara Im is an award-winning author, international speaker, resilience coach, and survivor of the Cambodian genocide. After enduring the horrors of the Khmer Rouge regime, she transformed her extraordinary story of survival into a mission of inspiring others to live with resilience, faith, hope, and purpose. Through her speaking, writing, and coaching, Sara empowers individuals and organizations to overcome adversity, embrace purpose, and discover the strength to persevere through life's greatest challenges. Her journey is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the life-changing power of never giving up. Website: https://www.saraim.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-im/ 🎧 Subscribe to The Samurai Way Podcast for inspiring conversations on Japanese wisdom, resilience, leadership, history, and living a meaningful life. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In Part 2 of this special conversation, Lori Tsugawa Whaley welcomes back Harold Payne, acclaimed songwriter, TEDx speaker, and storyteller, to explore the powerful legacy of the 100th Infantry Battalion, affectionately known as "One Puka Puka," and the Japanese American soldiers whose courage changed history. Harold shares the heartfelt story behind writing his song "One Puka Puka," a moving tribute to the soldiers of the 100th Infantry Battalion. Together, Lori and Harold discuss why preserving these stories matters and how music can keep the legacy of these quiet heroes alive for future generations. Together, Lori and Harold explore: The meaning behind "One Puka Puka" and why the song was written The legacy of the 100th Infantry Battalion and its role in history How the 100th became part of the legendary 442nd Regimental Combat Team Why the stories of these quiet heroes deserve to be remembered How music and storytelling preserve courage, sacrifice, and the samurai spirit This episode is a heartfelt tribute to the Japanese American soldiers who served with extraordinary bravery during World War II and a reminder that the greatest heroes are often those who seek no recognition. About Harold Payne Harold Payne is a multi-platinum songwriter, TEDx speaker, and master improviser. His songs have been recorded by Rod Stewart, Patti LaBelle, Lana Del Rey, Snoop Dogg, Kelly Rowland, Bobby Womack, and many other acclaimed artists. Through his music and storytelling, Harold continues to inspire audiences while honoring the people and stories that deserve to be remembered. Website: www.haroldpaynemusic.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haroldlpayne/ 🎧 Subscribe to The Samurai Way Podcast for inspiring conversations on Japanese wisdom, resilience, leadership, history, and living a meaningful life. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of The Samurai Way Podcast , Lori Tsugawa sits down with Harold Payne , a multi-platinum songwriter, TEDx speaker, and master improviser whose songs have been recorded by legendary artists including Rod Stewart, Patti LaBelle, Lana Del Rey, Snoop Dogg, Kelly Rowland, and his longtime collaborator Bobby Womack. Harold shares the remarkable story of how a student studying Spanish, linguistics, and teaching English as a Second Language at UCLA found his true calling through music. Starting with a ukulele, then a guitar, and eventually performing in a Motown-style R&B band, Harold built a career that has spanned decades and touched audiences around the world. Together, Lori and Harold explore: How following your passion can transform your life The unexpected twists that lead to purpose Creativity, resilience, and lifelong learning Lessons from a lifetime of songwriting and performing Why it's never too late to pursue what truly inspires you Whether you're a musician, entrepreneur, creative professional, or simply searching for your own purpose, Harold's journey is a powerful reminder that success often begins with having the courage to follow your heart. About Harold Payne Harold Payne is a multi-platinum songwriter, TEDx speaker, and master improviser. His songs have been recorded by Rod Stewart, Patti LaBelle, Lana Del Rey, Snoop Dogg, Kelly Rowland, and many other acclaimed artists. Throughout his career, he has inspired audiences worldwide through his music, storytelling, and passion for creativity. Website: www.haroldpaynemusic.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haroldlpayne/ Subscribe to The Samurai Way Podcast for inspiring conversations on purpose, resilience, leadership, Japanese wisdom, and living a meaningful life. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What if true healing begins not by hiding our brokenness, but by embracing it? In this inspiring episode of The Samurai Way Podcast, Lori Tsugawa Whaley welcomes back Christine Heckel for a deeper conversation about the Japanese philosophy of Kintsugi and the life-changing mission of MOA International. After overcoming a severe Lyme disease health crisis, Christine discovered a new path to healing through Japanese wisdom, holistic practices, and a philosophy centered on beauty, balance, and personal transformation. She shares how MOA International introduced her to a way of life that nurtures the mind, body, and spirit through art, nature, natural farming, mindfulness, and compassionate living. Together, Lori and Christine explore: The timeless lessons of Kintsugi and finding strength through life's broken places The mission and philosophy of MOA International How Japanese healing practices cultivate inner resilience and well-being Why self-care is essential before we can truly serve others How small personal changes can create lasting impact in our families, communities, and the world This heartfelt conversation is a reminder that healing is not about becoming who you once were. It's about discovering the beauty, purpose, and strength that emerge through life's challenges. If you're seeking hope, resilience, and practical wisdom for living a more meaningful life, this episode is for you. 🎧 Listen now and discover how Japanese philosophy can inspire your own journey toward healing and wholeness. Connect with Christine Heckel LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-heckel-44933322/ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@christineheckel?si=FRZDKZZRTw15rz5d Learn More About MOA International Website: https://www.moa-international.or.jp/en/ If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who could use a little encouragement today. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this inspiring episode of The Samurai Way , Lori Tsugawa Whaley sits down with stress regulation and sustainable performance specialist Christine Heckel to explore the timeless Japanese philosophy of Kintsugi, the art of repairing broken pottery with gold. After surviving a life changing battle with Lyme disease and rebuilding her life from the inside out, Christine shares how adversity transformed her understanding of success, resilience, and healing. Lori also reflects on her own journey of recovering from two traumatic brain injuries after being rear ended twice, and how Japanese wisdom helped her find purpose through pain. Together, they discuss: Why brokenness is not the end of your story How life's greatest setbacks can become your greatest transformation The connection between stress, nervous system regulation, and healing The deeper meaning of Kintsugi and why our scars deserve to be honored, not hidden How embracing change can lead to greater purpose, Ikigai, and inner strength This heartfelt conversation reminds us that healing does not require erasing the past. Like Kintsugi, our cracks become part of our story, revealing a life shaped by courage, resilience, and hope. If this episode encourages you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs the reminder that they are never defined by what has broken them. Connect with Christine Heckel LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-heckel-44933322/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@christineheckel Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of The Samurai Way, Lori Tsugawa Whaley sits down with clinical psychologist and burnout recovery strategist Dr. Mirna Mejia to explore the powerful Japanese philosophy of Kintsugi, the art of repairing broken pottery with gold. Together, they discuss why emotional wounds are not signs of failure but opportunities for growth. Dr. Mejia shares her insights on burnout, trauma recovery, limiting beliefs, and how psychology and Japanese wisdom can help us move from merely surviving to living with purpose and resilience. This conversation is a reminder that our scars do not diminish our worth. They become part of our story and can reveal the strength and beauty within us. In this episode you'll discover: • The true meaning of Kintsugi and why it resonates with modern life. • Why feeling "broken" is often a message, not an identity. • How burnout affects high-achieving professionals, especially women. • The difference between therapy and coaching and when each is needed. • How to transform pain into personal growth and renewed purpose. • Practical encouragement for anyone navigating life's difficult seasons. If you've ever wondered whether healing is possible after hardship, this episode will leave you with hope and a new perspective on what it means to become whole again. Connect with Dr. Mirna Meija LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mirnamejiaphd/ Website: https://www.yourtruecanvas.org/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Episode Notes In this episode of The Samurai Way, Lori Tsugawa Whaley continues her insightful conversation with Kei Tsuda, exploring deeper dimensions of Ikigai and how Japanese wisdom can help us navigate today's rapidly changing world. Kei introduces the Japanese concept of iwakan, a subtle feeling that something is out of alignment or not quite right. While often overlooked, iwakan can serve as an important signal that invites reflection, self-awareness, and personal growth. Rather than dismissing these moments of inner friction, Kei explains how they can guide us toward a deeper understanding of our values, relationships, and purpose. The conversation explores why Ikigai is becoming increasingly important in an age shaped by artificial intelligence, technological advancement, and constant change. As external roles and circumstances continue to evolve, Ikigai can provide a stabilizing inner compass that helps us stay connected to meaning, contribution, growth, and human connection. Lori and Kei also discuss: • The meaning and significance of iwakan • How cultural differences influence the way people express discomfort and disagreement • Why reflection is essential when experiencing inner friction • Ikigai as a guide for navigating uncertainty and change • The impact of technology and AI on our search for meaning • Building stronger relationships through greater self-awareness • Japanese family traditions and values • The role of food, culture, and shared experiences in creating connection • Wisdom passed down through generations This episode offers a thoughtful reminder that some of life's most important lessons begin with paying attention to the subtle signals within ourselves. By listening to what feels out of place, we may discover a clearer path toward our Ikigai and a more meaningful life. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of The Samurai Way , I sit down with Kei Tsuda, founder of Ikigai Advisors LLC, leadership development practitioner, and cross-cultural learning expert, to explore a topic that has fascinated me for years: the true meaning of Ikigai. Like many people, I was first introduced to Ikigai through the popular Venn diagram. But something always felt incomplete. In this conversation, Kei helps us uncover why. Drawing from his research, multicultural experiences, and the groundbreaking work of Japanese psychiatrist Dr. Mieko Kamiya, he shares a deeper understanding of Ikigai as a feeling that makes life worth living rather than simply a formula for finding purpose. We discuss how Ikigai is interpreted differently across cultures, why Mieko Kamiya's work was decades ahead of its time, and how her insights continue to be relevant in today's rapidly changing world shaped by technology, AI, and social change. In this episode, you'll discover: • Why the popular Ikigai Venn diagram may not tell the whole story • The difference between Ikigai as a feeling and a source of Ikigai • The remarkable legacy of Dr. Mieko Kamiya and her pioneering research • How culture influences the way we understand meaning and fulfillment • Why Ikigai matters now more than ever in an age of uncertainty • How growth, relationships, and curiosity can help cultivate a life worth living This conversation challenged many of my own assumptions about Ikigai and gave me a deeper appreciation for the wisdom behind this uniquely Japanese concept. I hope it inspires you to reflect on your own sources of meaning and discover what makes life worth living for you. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of The Samurai Way, I welcome back Daiki Kato, clinical psychologist, researcher, professor at Kinjo Gakuin University, and CEO of Beyond Myself LLC, for an inspiring conversation about his latest work, BM8 (Beyond Myself 8), a framework designed to help individuals thrive in an increasingly complex world. Building on our previous discussion about rolefulness, Professor Kato introduces the eight essential powers that contribute to personal growth, meaningful relationships, and success in society. Drawing from years of psychological research, BM8 provides a practical roadmap for strengthening mental well-being, developing stronger connections with others, and navigating life's challenges with confidence and purpose. Together, we explore the three pillars of BM8: •Powers to Strengthen the Individual • Resilience • Self-Efficacy •Powers to Nurture Relationships • Rolefulness • Empathy • Tolerance Powers to Navigate Society • Critical Inquiry • Experiential Learning • Risk Management During our conversation, Professor Kato shares how resilience and self-efficacy help build confidence and mental strength, why empathy and tolerance are essential for healthy relationships, and how rolefulness helps us find meaning through our everyday interactions. We also discuss the importance of critical thinking, learning through experience, and preparing for uncertainty in today's rapidly changing world. One of the most fascinating parts of this discussion is how BM8 connects modern psychology with timeless values found in Japanese culture, Bushido, and the spirit of continuous growth. Professor Kato explains that these eight powers are not only relevant in Japan but are universal qualities that can help people everywhere live more fulfilling and meaningful lives. In this episode, we discuss: • The origin and purpose of the BM8 framework • The importance of resilience and self-efficacy • How rolefulness strengthens identity and purpose • Why empathy and tolerance are critical for human connection • Lessons from Bushido and Japanese culture • Developing critical inquiry and asking better questions • Learning through experience and overcoming failure • The importance of risk management in modern society • How psychological research can be applied to everyday life • Building a stronger foundation for personal and social well-being If you are interested in psychology, personal growth, leadership, Japanese wisdom, or creating a more meaningful life, this conversation offers practical insights and timeless lessons that can help you flourish. Connect with Daiki Kato: LinkedIn: Daiki Kato LinkedIn Learn more about BM8, Beyond Myself LLC, and Professor Kato's upcoming book through the links provided in the episode description. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Daiki Kato for a thoughtful and inspiring conversation about psychology, rolefulness, human connection, gratitude, and finding meaning in our everyday lives. Professor Kato is a clinical psychologist, researcher, professor at Kinjo Gakuin University, and CEO of Beyond Myself LLC. His work focuses on transforming psychological research into practical tools that help individuals and organizations navigate the challenges of modern life. What fascinated me most during our conversation was his groundbreaking research on “rolefulness,” a new psychological concept centered around role satisfaction in our daily lives. Rather than focusing only on major roles like career or family, Professor Kato explains that rolefulness can be found in simple, everyday interactions such as listening, greeting others, having conversations, showing gratitude, and being present with the people around us. Together, we explored how our roles shape our identity, confidence, relationships, and mental well-being, and how rolefulness can help people feel more connected, purposeful, and fulfilled. In this episode, we talk about: • The meaning of rolefulness and how it impacts mental health • The difference between social rolefulness and internal rolefulness • How our daily roles shape confidence and identity • Why simple greetings and conversations matter deeply • The importance of gratitude in Japanese culture and psychology • Why many Japanese people say “sumimasen” instead of “thank you” • How younger generations struggle with connection in the digital age • The relationship between communication skills and emotional well-being • How rolefulness can help people feel more centered and fulfilled • The role of Japanese culture in shaping relationships and social harmony • How storytelling, creativity, and psychology support human well-being One of the most meaningful parts of this conversation was Professor Kato’s reminder that rolefulness is not something distant or complicated. It exists in the small moments of everyday life, in how we listen, speak, connect, and show appreciation to one another. I believe this episode will encourage many of you to reflect on your own roles and relationships and recognize that fulfillment often begins with the simple act of being present and valuing others. Sometimes purpose is not found in extraordinary achievements. Sometimes it is found in the quiet moments of connection, gratitude, and understanding. Connect with Daiki Kato: LinkedIn: Daiki Kato LinkedIn Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.