Word of Mouth The Art of Listening
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Jun 12, 2025 Michael Rosen chats with Haru Yamada, a sociolinguist and author of 'Kiku: The Japanese Art of Good Listening'. Haru shares insights on how listening varies across cultures, particularly in Japan, where empathetic listening is central. She emphasizes the importance of 'listening with 14 hearts' for deeper connections. The conversation touches on the significance of personal experiences and the nuanced roles of silence and vocal characteristics in communication. Haru believes we can all enhance our listening skills to strengthen relationships.
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Haru Yamada's ICU Listening Experience
- Haru Yamada was seriously injured and spent time in ICU where she couldn't speak due to a tracheostomy.
- She learned that listening included not just medical advice but also emotional and relational support around her.
The Meaning of Kiku
- The Japanese word 'kiku' for listening has two forms: one is hearing information, the other embodies 'listening with 14 hearts'.
- This reflects a deeper, empathetic type of listening beyond just hearing words.
Fast and Slow Listening Modes
- Listening happens in fast and slow modes: fast tracks known information, slow expands understanding.
- Our brain actively decodes acoustic signals into meaningful language and context.