Ep.1450 - Biggest Surprises from Japan, w/ Kevin & Jason

Oct 14, 2025

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What happens when two builders visit the birthplace of Lean and realize it's not just a system, it's a way of living?

In this powerful and emotional episode, recorded live from Haneda Airport in Tokyo, Jason Schroeder and Kevin reflect on their life-changing journey through Japan with Paul Akers' Two Second Lean Study Tour. What started as a professional training trip turned into something much deeper, a rediscovery of purpose, humanity, and what it truly means to lead.

Jason shares how Japan didn't just refine his understanding of Lean, it healed it. From Toyota's leadership philosophies to the culture's deep respect for people, he found a nation that values consideration, alignment, and connection. For Jason, the revelation was personal: "I feel whole. I finally found a place where kindness isn't weakness, it's the standard."

Kevin opens up about his own transformation, from learning new tools to completely rethinking leadership and fatherhood. Inspired by Japan's shoulder-to-shoulder culture, he now sees that leadership isn't about sending people off to figure it out, it's about walking beside them.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Why the true power of Lean begins with love and respect for people.
How Japan's "Gemba-first" mindset reshapes leadership and humility.
The lessons from Toyota executives that every builder should hear.
How a simple app and mindset shift rebuilt Kevin's productivity and peace.
Why real leadership at work or home means standing shoulder to shoulder.

This isn't just a recap of a trip. It's a blueprint for becoming whole again as leaders, as parents, as people.

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Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels:

· Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg

· LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt

· LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured

· LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw