The Ikigai Podcast

In episode 17 of the Ikigai podcast, Assistant Professor Shintaro Kono shares his research results from a qualitative study on how Japanese university students experience ikigai via interpersonal relationships. Theorizing the Interpersonal Aspect of IkigaiIkigai is strongly influenced by "ibasho"; authentic relationship. In such relationships, students felt that they could be true to who they were and that their close others genuinely cared about them. In summary, Shin's research and resulting theory suggest that having authentic relationship is characterized by two distinct types of subjective perceptions; self-authenticity and genuine care. Authentic relationship was often developed and maintained through two modes of interaction; "experiencing together", and "communicating experiences". Lastly, these interactions were conditioned by echoed values and trust.

On episode 16 we discuss why finding your Ikigai is the most honorable and rewarding thing one can do. According venture capitalist Yohei Nkajima it’s the key to a long and happy life. So what exactly is Ikigai? The literal translation is “the reason for which one lives”, which does the word justice. Your Ikigai can be your job, your lover, your family, your hobby, or anything else. It’s whatever brings you satisfaction and a sense of meaning to life. If you’ve ever woken up next to someone you truly love, you know the feeling.In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Yohei Nakajima shares with us that in order to truly understand the nuances of this word, you must know the different ways in which it’s used. Ikigai is something you can have, feel, search for, or find.

In episode 15 of the Ikigai Podcast Nick chats with Misako Yoke, founder of Genki Habits and author of Take Heart - Your Are Stronger Than You Think. Misako Yoke is also a published author in Japan, an award-winning speaker, a certified Tiny Habits coach, and a Life Story coach. The word “Genki” (energetic, enthusiastic, high-spirited) perfectly describes her personality.

In episode 14 of the Ikigai Podcast, I talk with Bob Emiliani on the subject of Shinjijutsu Kaizen. Kaizen goes far beyond the popular notion of "continuous improvement". Discover how Kaizen is a humanistic approach that helps people realize their full potential. The teachings of Chihiro Nakao will enlighten you on a wide range of business subjects and teach you to think differently -  to think by using your hands and see by using your feet. 

On episode 13 of the Ikigai Podcast, Ken Mogi returns to discuss the Japanese concept of kodawari.What is Kodawari?In Ken's own words, "Kodawari is a personal standard, to which the individual adheres to in a steadfast manner. It is often, though not always, used in reference to a level of quality or professionalism to which the individual holds. It is an attitude, often maintained throughout one’s life, constituting a central element of ikiagi."

In episode 12 of the Ikigai Podcast, I speak with Dr. Dean Fido on his translation and validation of the Ikigai-9. The Ikigai-9 is a psychometric tool used as a means of measuring Ikigai across the dimensions of:optimistic and positive emotions toward lifeactive and positive attitudes towards one's futureand acknowledgment of the meaning of one's existence.The Ikigai-9 consists of nine items measuring one’s reason for being through dimensions of emotions towards one’s life, attitudes towards one’s future, and the acknowledgment of one’s existence.The Ikigai-9 StatementsI believe that I have some impact on someone.My life is mentally rich and fulfilled.I am interested in many things.I feel that I am contributing to someone or to society.I would like to develop myself.I often feel that I am happy.I think that my existence is needed by something or someone.I would like to learn something new or start something.I have room in my mind.

In episode 11 of the Ikigai Podcast, Finding Ikigai in Classical Japanese Swordsmanship, I'm speaking with Saneteru (Steven) Radzikowski, founder and current head instructor of Shinkan-ryu Kenpo, a unique style of classical Japanese sportsmanship.Shinkan-ryu KenpoShinkan-ryū Kenpō takes the ideas of munen 無念 (non-worldly thoughts), which is a Buddhist concept and attempts to pierce the fog of mental constructs to show the real truth of our minds and the world. The techniques of the sword and mind are shared at the same level. One does not develop only the sword without the mind in the true tradition of Shinkan-ryū Kenpō.

On episode 10 of Ikigai Podcast, I speak with Canadian Tea Master, Randy Channell Soei. Soei Sensei, a longterm resident of Kyoto is one of a handful of foreigners licensed to teach all aspects of "Tea Ceremony".In this episode, we talk about "The Way of Tea" and Japanese philosophical ideas related to Tea Ceremony including Wakei-Sejyaku, Bunburyodo, Zanshin and Mushin. 

In episode 9 of the Ikigai Podcast podcast, I speak with author, poet, and one of the leading authorities on Japanese Psychology, Gregg Krech.Gregg Krech is the author of several books including the award-winning book Naikan: Gratitude, Grace and The Japanese Art of Self Reflection, The Art of Taking Action - Lesson From Japanese Psychology and Tunneling for Sunlight: Twenty-One Maxims of Living Wisdom from Buddhism and Japanese Psychology to Cope with Difficult Times.Along with his wife Linda, Gregg is the founder of The ToDoInstitute.org, a non-profit centre in Vermont that uses Japanese Psychology as an alternative to traditional Western approaches to psychology. These methods include Naikan Therapy, Morita Therapy and Kaizen.Gregg's work supports a blend of the psychological, the spiritual and the practical based on values such as purpose, gratitude, mindfulness, compassion and constructive action. Over the past 30 years, Gregg has introduced Japanese Psychology to more than 10,000 people through his workshops and online courses.

On episode 8 of The Ikigai Podcast, I interview Paul Akers about his latest book, Banish Sloppiness. Paul Akers is the founder and president of FastCap, a product development company specializing in woodworking tools and hardware for the professional builder. Paul is an energetic speaker whose core passion is helping people discover their full potential and showing others how to implement Lean in their business and personal life.   As you would expect, Paul is also passionate about Japan and teaches people the philosophy of Japan through his Japan study missions. Paul and I had a great conversation about how lean manufacturing, precision, and Japanese culture changed his life.