The Rich Roll Podcast Walking As Medicine: Craig Mod’s 300-Miles On Foot, Japan's Philosophy Of Enough, & The Profound Power Of Undistracted Presence
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Jun 2, 2025 
Craig Mod, an artist, author, and photographer with 25 years in Japan, shares his transformative experience of walking over 300 miles as a form of inner cartography. He discusses how walking helped him reconcile adoption trauma and connect with his roots, leading to a profound reunion with his birth mother. The conversation delves into Japanese concepts of 'yōyū' and empathy, the cultural nuances of Japan versus the West, and how movement fosters clarity and meaning in life. His journey redefines grief, connection, and personal growth through undistracted presence.
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Japan's Ethos of Enough
- Japan's ethos centers on an ambient sense of "enough" rather than endless striving.
- This creates a cohesive middle class with small disparities, supporting a culture of mastery and humility.
Dining with Sushi Master Jiro Ono
- Craig dined with Jiro Ono, a living national treasure sushi master, for the first real sushi experience at age 26.
- The experience revealed humility and mastery despite Jiro's global renown and humble setting.
Collectivism Fuels Japan's Recovery
- Japan's rapid post-war economic recovery was driven by strong collectivism and unified cultural momentum.
- The collectivist mindset can enable great feats when directed properly.
