Shows
Spectator Out LoudOwen Matthews, Bijan Omrani, Andrew Hankinson, Laurie Penny & Andrew Watts On this week’s Spectator Out Loud: Owen Matthews says that Venice’s residents never stop complaining (1:11); Bijan Omrani reads his church notebook (7:33); Andrew Hankinson reviews Tiffany Jenkins’s Strangers and Intimates: The Rise and Fall of Private Life (13:54); as 28 Years Later is released, Laurie Penny explains the politics behind Alex Garland’s film franchise (18:25); and, Andrew Watts provides his notes on Angel Delight (25:09). Produced and presented by Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.For more...2025-06-2028 min
Best of the SpectatorSpectator Out Loud: Owen Matthews, Bijan Omrani, Andrew Hankinson, Laurie Penny & Andrew Watts On this week’s Spectator Out Loud: Owen Matthews says that Venice’s residents never stop complaining (1:11); Bijan Omrani reads his church notebook (7:33); Andrew Hankinson reviews Tiffany Jenkins’s Strangers and Intimates: The Rise and Fall of Private Life (13:54); as 28 Years Later is released, Laurie Penny explains the politics behind Alex Garland’s film franchise (18:25); and, Andrew Watts provides his notes on Angel Delight (25:09). Produced and presented by Patrick Gibbons.2025-06-2028 min
LogrollSarah Ditum: ToxicThis episode is an interview with the journalist Sarah Ditum, discussing her book Toxic and her journalism.The book is about our treatment of famous women in the Noughties, told through the stories of nine women in particular: Britney Spears, Paris Hilton, Lindsay Lohan, Aaliyah, Janet Jackson, Amy Winehouse, Kim Kardashian, Chynah and Jennifer Aniston. Sarah explained why she wrote it, the evolution of the book, and how it felt researching that period.We also discussed Sarah's journalism and what it's been like to write about controversial subjects, and the impact on her friendships, commissions and...2024-12-061h 13LogrollJohn Niven: O BrotherThis is an interview with John Niven about his writing career, particularly his latest book O Brother, which was shortlisted for the 2024 Gordon Burn Prize.O Brother is about the suicide of his brother. While John was making his way in the music industry and then as a successful writer, starting with his novel Kill Your Friends, his brother remained in Scotland where his life was chaotic. He ultimately hanged himself in a hospital.John tells the story of their lives, but also investigates why his brother was left alone to be able to kill himself...2024-09-061h 01LogrollSally Hayden: My Fourth Time, We DrownedI spoke to Sally Hayden about her book My Fourth Time, We Drowned. It's about people who tried to cross the Mediterranean Sea from Africa to Europe but ended up locked in detention centres in Libya. The book won the Orwell Prize and was shortlisted for the Baillie Gifford Prize. She describes it as a 'book of evidence'.We talked about: her early reporting on the story while working for Vicethe role played by business cardsthe importance of making yourself contactable having to respond to sources at all hourshow the story took over her lifestruggling to...2024-04-231h 03LogrollDavid Whitehouse: About A SonThis episode features David Whitehouse discussing his Gordon Burn Prize-shortlisted nonfiction book About A Son. It's about Colin Hehir's battle to know the truth about his son's murderer. The book is written in second-person, which we get into. We also discuss why David switched from novels to nonfiction, his start in men's magazines, how he got the material for this book, and finally ethics, including a decision by David which surprised me. You can buy David's books here:https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/about-a-son-a-murder-and-a-father-s-search-for-truth-david-whitehouse/7277920https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/bed-david-whitehouse/34602062024-02-161h 06LogrollPhilip Gould: When I Die (interview with Keith Blackmore)In this episode I interviewed Keith Blackmore, who edited Philip Gould’s book When I Die, which was published after Philip had died.Philip was one of the architects of New Labour, but in 2011 he had cancer. Keith, then the deputy editor at The Times, started serialising an essay Philip had written about his experience, which later formed part of the book. A few months later, Philip died, after which his family asked Keith to edit this book, When I Die.In the interview we talk about how Keith became involved and the way newspaper editing ca...2024-02-0254 minLogrollDavid Wolf: The Guardian Long ReadA slightly different episode, this time I spoke to David Wolf, editor of The Guardian Long Read, about their new magazine-format publication comprising some of their best pieces.David previously worked for Prospect magazine, so we talked a bit about his road to becoming editor of Guardian Long Read, before getting into the mechanics of producing longform journalism, what can go wrong, and what the experience is at the editor's end of things.You can buy the magazine here:https://guardianbookshop.com/the-guardian-long-read-9781399968713David recommended two books. which are here:...2024-01-2657 minLogrollDavid James Smith: The Sleep of ReasonI spoke to David James Smith about his book The Sleep of Reason, which is about the murder of James Bulger.David is a tremendous journalist who has written features for places like The Sunday Times Magazine and Esquire. We talked about his early career in journalism and how he came to be commissioned to write a book about the murder of James Bulger weeks after it happened.We spoke about the ethics of the book and how he wrote it, including ingratiating himself with the solicitor of one of the murderers, getting to know police...2023-12-081h 04LogrollWill Storr: The Status GameThis is an interview with Will Storr about his book The Status Game, which was named a book of the year by The Times and was recently championed on Joe Rogan's podcast. Will is my friend and former features editor. We started off talking about how he got into journalism, his early Gonzo-influenced magazine work at Loaded, and how he shifted into becoming an award-winning journalist for broadsheets. We also talked about his other books, including The Science of Storytelling, which is about how and why people tell stories; we talked about when he went undercover...2023-11-021h 13LogrollDavid Blum: Flash in the PanThis was a hugely revealing conversation with David Blum, who now works for Audible, but once wrote books. We started off talking about David's early journalism career, including the famous 1985 New York Magazine article about the Brat Pack, a phrase he coined. He then wrote the book Flash in the Pan which came out in 1992. It was about a New York restaurant, invested in by actor Matt Dillon. For 15 months David embedded himself at the restaurant as it was launched and slowly failed. We talked about why the book didn't sell well, the impact...2023-05-031h 00LogrollJo Ann Beard: Festival DaysFor this episode I spoke to American writer Jo Ann Beard about her latest collection Festival Days and her previous collection The Boys of My Youth. We talked about fact, fiction, creative writing, journalism, how her experience of a workplace shooting in which people died changed her writing career, writing for the New Yorker, writing about death or proximity to death, how she feels about using people's stories, and how she constructs her work piece by piece, very, very slowly.I found out about Jo Ann's work from William Fiennes, who told me about an essay...2023-02-061h 04
Japan's Top Business Interviews Podcast By Dale Carnegie Training Tokyo JapanBest of the Best Encore #39: Andrew Hankinson, President, Zwilling J.A. Henckels Japan Best of the Best Encore #39: Andrew Hankinson, President, Zwilling J.A. Henckels Japan Originally released Feb 27, 2021 Andrew Hankinson is the President of Zwilling J.A. Henckels Japan and host of the podcast Now and Zen. Originally from Seattle, Washington, Mr. Hankinson’s passion for Japan grew at a young age, having been exposed to Japanese culture by family members living in the country, leading him to learn the language from high school. After briefly teaching English in Osaka, Mr. Hankinson returned to Japan with a degree in international business and Japanese language from the US. He shortly beg...2023-01-271h 11LogrollSam Knight: The Premonitions BureauFor this episode I spoke to Sam Knight about his book The Premonitions Bureau, published by Faber. It's nonfiction, about a phsyciatrist, a journalist, and an experiment they ran for a while to see whether people could predict the future. I won't give the ending away.You can buy Sam's book here: https://uk.bookshop.org/books/the-premonitions-bureau-a-sunday-times-bestseller/9780571357567The book he recommended is The Storm is Here by Luke Mogelson:https://uk.bookshop.org/books/the-storm-is-here-america-on-the-brink/9781529418712And you can buy my books here:https://uk.bookshop...2022-12-301h 10LogrollMichela Wrong: Do Not DisturbIn this episode I interview Michela Wrong about her book Do Not Disturb, which is about the murder of Rwanda's former head of intelligence Patrick Karegeya. We talked about her interviews with people who had been asked to murder Karegeya, what it was like to criticise Rwandan president Paul Kagame, and how it felt when he responded on national television. We also discussed her experience reporting on the genocide and how the book addressed journalism's ability to report on such events.You can buy Michela's books here: https://uk.bookshop.org/contributors/michela-wrong2022-10-131h 05LogrollAdam Hochschild: King Leopold's GhostAfter a bit of a wait, finally this is the Adam Hochschild episode. Adam teaches journalism at Berkeley, which we talk a bit about as well as some of his other books.The focus though was King Leopold's Ghost, published in 1998, which is about Belgian's use of slavery for their rubber and ivory trade in the Congo in the 19th and 20th centuries. We focused on how he researched the book, including his finding of long-forgotten books in libraries.We talked a bit about Russia, so worth noting that the conversation took place a...2022-09-201h 11
Now and Zen JapanWilliam Ryan: Japan Hospitality Consultants founder and Irish bar pioneerHave you ever considered opening your own bar, cafe, or restaurant in Japan? It seems daunting and bureaucratic doesn't it? On this episode you will hear just how simple it can be. I speak with William Ryan, the founder of Japan Hospitality Consultants (JHC), and the owner of the An Solas Irish Pub in Yoyogi. William has been running Irish pubs in Tokyo for over 20 years and started his own pub in 2014. With this proven track record he started JHC two years ago when he realized there was an underserved niche advising foreigners on how to open their own F...2022-07-2341 min
Now and Zen JapanJulien Rey: Leasing Director for "Thrillers & Fillers" at The Outlet! CompanyA topic near and dear to my interests and business: Retail in Japan. Specifically the Outlet Mall industry. This episode we hear from Julien Rey, the Leasing Director for the Outlet! Company. Japan already has numerous outlet malls and Julien explains how his company is differentiating and innovating in this competitive market. The fascinating quantitative and psychological factors behind mall layout, location, and loyalty. The politics of space allocation, the strategies malls use to attract customers and increase "dwelling" time, and which brands are the thrillers and the fillers. It's a great listen and not just because of Julien's ch...2022-07-1043 min
Now and Zen JapanMasafumi Otsuka: Intercultural Facilitator & Japan ExpertThis is a deep-dive into those mystifying Japanese business practices foreigners in Japan often struggle with. Intercultural Facilitator Masafumi Otsuka explains the frustrating Japanese business practice of "Why Japanese mangers change jobs every 3 years", and "Why they always see the glass as half empty". The periodic job rotation system and the risk adverse decision process is logically explained by Masa. This episode is filled with many cultural Japanese business concepts often misunderstood by Westerners such as Nemawashi, Genten Shugi, and Kyochosei and Masa explains these in an entertaining and enlightening way. He gets personal with his struggles of returning to...2022-06-2843 minLogrollAlia Malek: The Home That Was Our CountryIn this episode I interviewed American journalist and lawyer Alia Malek, whose work has been published by the New York Times and New Yorker. I spoke to her about her 2017 book The Home That Was Our Country, which is partly about moving to her grandmother's flat in Damascus from 2011 to 2013, but also about Syria. We talked about the murder of one of her relatives when she was on a childhood visit to Syria, the disappearance of people in Damascus over the years, and the descent into war. We also talked about how she wrote...2022-06-101h 04
Now and Zen JapanRuth Jarman: CEO and International Cultural ConnectorConnecting International Curiosity with Japanese Content with 34-year Japan entrepreneur Ruth Jarman. She is the founder of Jarman International and the author of six books in Japanese. We talk about these books, this content, and where her passion for Japan comes from. We also discuss "Reading the Air" and other non-verbal conversation traits in Japan, her top 3 cultural reasons Japanese are uniquely wonderful, and how her new corporate partner is helping solve the nightmare for foreigners that is banking in Japan. She is full of infectious energy and together we share stores laughs, unique insights, and a couple beers...2022-06-0936 min
Now and Zen JapanDiane Tincher: Specialist Japanese culture and history, writer, tour guideIt's passionate travel stories from rural Japan, fascinating historical story-telling, and insightful cultural observations with Diane Tincher. Diane has been in Japan for 35 years, lived in Kagoshima for 26 years, has 8 children, and is the owner of the must-see website "More than Tokyo". She is a prolific writer of little known historical stories she has researched in Japanese, an accomplished tour guide for Walk Japan, and her knowledge of Japanese history, folklore, and idyllic rural travel spots is 2nd to none!This episode you will hear about where you can hike and active volcano, a brief hi...2022-05-2539 min
Now and Zen JapanTyson Batino: Serial Entrepreneur & Small Business AdvisorSerial entrepreneur Tyson Batino, founder of three businesses in Japan including the successful English school chain One Coin English, is the guest this episode. His latest business is 'Scaling Your Company' where he advises and coaches small business owners how to scale their business 5x to 100x! We talk about his start in Japan, how three mentors changed his career and his business life. Tyson even shares the best two pieces of advise from these mentors about working in Japan. Tyson explains the challenges of scaling a language school into profitability, how managers and CEO's can manage the...2022-05-0737 min
Now and Zen JapanYuko Tamura: "Rebellious" Writer and Japonica EditorIf you are a regular listener to Now and Zen, you'll know many of my fascinating guests are non-Japanese living in Japan. So it's always fun to have a bi-cultural Japanese guest on the show and hear their insights and perspectives. This episode I speak with Yuko Tamura, she is an award-winning writer on the Medium platform and the editor of Japonica - the publication for everything Japan. She describes her writing as Fun Facts about Japan and "a little Rebellious essays" from Tokyo. We discuss some of these articles including "The 3 facts you should know before ma...2022-04-2343 min
The FocusCore PodcastRecruitment ‘Hacks’ with Andrew Hankinson of Zwilling J.A. Henckels JapanThis week on the podcast we are doing something different. I wanted to share with you an interview I did with Andrew Hankinson from the first podcast that I ever recorded. Developing operations in Japan to be efficient and profitable can be a challenge when you run six top brands, over 30 retail shops, and a factory of the German company, Zwilling J.A. Henckels. For over 30 years, Andrew has been a true leader in Japan, a sales guru, and a business leader. He is undoubtedly one of the most exceptional business people I've had the honor to k...2022-04-1727 minLogrollJon Ronson: So You've Been Publicly ShamedIn this episode I talked to Jon Ronson about his book So You’ve Been Publicly Shamed. We covered his career leading up to the book, how he nailed down the idea, how a book deal works for an author at his level, and what the impact of the book was. You can buy all his books here: https://uk.bookshop.org/contributors/jon-ronsonJon also recommended Craig Brown’s book about the Beatles which you can buy here:https://uk.bookshop.org/books/one-two-three-four-the-beatles-in-time/9780008340032And finally you can also buy...2022-04-121h 10
Now and Zen JapanFrank Packard: Alternative Investment SpecialistThis episode I step outside my comfort zone and talk about investing with Alternative Investment Specialist Frank Packard. Specifically we discuss Passion Investing, things like art, watches, and fine wine. What are the opportunities and what are the risks. Do you have a collection of something which might be worth a lot of money? Then you know It's not just about portfolio diversification, but also about the joy of ownership. Frank is really interesting, he was actually born in Japan and only moved back to the US when he was seven. So we discuss what that was like in term...2022-04-0740 min
Now and Zen JapanNikhil Gupte: Managing Dir. Barilla Japan. Expanding Italian Pasta in JapanA very entertaining conversation all about the Italian pasta business in Japan. This episode you meet Nikhil Gupte the Managing Director for Barilla Japan. Barilla is a 145 year old family owned Italian food company and Nikhil is responsible for introducing their traditions, values, and world famous pasta to the Japanese market. What happens when Italian authenticity comes up against Japanese Wafu style pasta recipes? Why Barilla's packaging is unique only to Japan? How has COVID changed the way Japanese consume pasta? The cultural reason spaghetti is far and above the most popular pasta style in Japan. Nikhil's very first tri...2022-03-2444 min
Now and Zen JapanDavid Clement: Corporate entrepreneur. Stories from 22 years of selling in JapanI thought it might be a challenge to interview my old friend David Clement. After-all we both grew up in the same small town and have known each other in Japan for over 20 years. However, his wisdom, Japan insight, and most of all, his entertaining stories make this a very fascinating episode. 22 years in B2B sales working with the biggest names in Japan and now the country manager for a "perfect start-up" in Japan. How does one make this big transition? David shares three riveting stories on leadership quirks, negotiating, and my favorite, the hoops and hurdles he ov...2022-03-1040 min
Friends of Shakespeare and Company read Ulysses by James JoycePages 217 - 227 │ Lestrygonians, part V │ Read by Andrew HankinsonPages 217 - 227 │Lestrygonians, part V│Read by Andrew HankinsonAndrew Hankinson is a freelance journalist and author in Newcastle upon Tyne. His two books are: 'Don't applaud. Either laugh or don't. (At the Comedy Cellar.)'; and 'You Could Do Something Amazing With Your Life [You Are Raoul Moat]. Buy Don't applaud. Either laugh or don't. (At the Comedy Cellar.) here: https://shakespeareandcompany.com/I/9781911617686/dont-applaud-either-laugh-or-dont-at-the-comedy-cellarwww.andrewhankinson.comFollow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/www.andrewhankinson.com*Loo...2022-03-1018 minLogrollJon Mooallem: This is Chance!This episode I spoke to New York Times writer Jon Mooallem about his book This is Chance!The book is about a huge but little-known earthquake in Alaska. I talked to Jon about why he chose the story, how he got so much rich material, and how people have responded to the book. We also spoke about his earlier work, including his first book, Wild Ones. You can buy Jon's books here:https://bookshop.org/contributors/jon-mooallemHe also recommended Girl in a Band by Kim Gordon, which you can buy here: 2022-02-281h 15
Now and Zen JapanUgo Bataillard: Food & Beverage Consulting & Innovation CEOFascinating innovations are happening in the food & beverage industry around the world and Ugo Bataillard is introducing them to Japan. Ugo is the Founder and CEO of GourmetPro, a startup which began as a Japan market-entry consulting company for foreign food and beverage companies. After a successful 1st year of having too much business, GourmetPro shifted their business model to focus more on plant and cell based foods, sustainability, and other innovations in food and beverage. You will hear all about these developments and how GourmetPro utilizes a network of expert consultants to introduce these to Japan. We also tal...2022-02-2740 minLogrollCathy Rentzenbrink: The Last Act of LoveIn this episode of Logroll I spoke to Cathy Rentzenbrink about her book The Last Act of Love.The book is about her brother, Matty, who was hit by a car, and what happened afterwards. We talked about her early attempts to write about it, her approach to memoir, and the difficulty of memory.You can buy Cathy's books, including her new one, Write It All Down, here:https://uk.bookshop.org/contributors/cathy-rentzenbrinkShe also recommended Giving Up the Ghost by Hilary Mantel, which you can buy here: https...2022-02-111h 07
Now and Zen JapanCynthia Usui: From part-timer to Country Manager of LOF Hotels in less than a yearCynthia Usui becomes the 1st ever return guest to the podcast. Less than a year ago, Cynthia was surviving as a part-time supermarket cashier after losing her high profile job, and now, she is the Japan Country manager for a new chain of small hotels in Tokyo! LOF Hotels. Once again Cynthia has reinvented herself. This episode you will hear this amazing story, why she initially turned down the hotel offer, how she's using her personal brand as a marketing tool, what is the business model of this brand new hotel chain, and how she is "paying it forward" by...2022-02-0843 min
The Shakespeare and Company InterviewComedy and the Culture Wars, with Andrew HankinsonThis week’s guest is Andrew Hankinson, author of the brilliant Don't applaud. Either laugh or don't. (At the Comedy Cellar.), a book about three things:1. A room called the Comedy Cellar.2. Who gets to speak in that room.3. What they get to say.Buy Don't applaud. Either laugh or don't. (At the Comedy Cellar.) here: https://shakespeareandcompany.com/I/9781911617686/dont-applaud-either-laugh-or-dont-at-the-comedy-cellarBrowse our online store here: https://shakespeareandcompany.com/15/online-store/16/bookstore*SUBSCRIBE NOW FOR BONUS FEATURESIf you want to spend even more ti...2022-02-031h 04The Shakespeare and Company InterviewComedy and the Culture Wars, with Andrew HankinsonThis week’s guest is Andrew Hankinson, author of the brilliant Don't applaud. Either laugh or don't. (At the Comedy Cellar.), a book about three things:1. A room called the Comedy Cellar.2. Who gets to speak in that room.3. What they get to say.Buy Don't applaud. Either laugh or don't. (At the Comedy Cellar.) here: https://shakespeareandcompany.com/I/9781911617686/dont-applaud-either-laugh-or-dont-at-the-comedy-cellarBrowse our online store here: https://shakespeareandcompany.com/15/online-store/16/bookstore*SUBSCRIBE NOW FOR BONUS FEATURESIf you want to spend even more ti...2022-02-031h 04
Now and Zen JapanEd Thompson: Marketing Consultant and EducatorNow and Zen Japan welcomes Mr. Ed Thompson, a Marketing Consultant and the founder of Concept Design. This episode we share beers and talk about his 20+ years in Japan and professional career in marketing, branding, advertising, and academia. He has also been a lecturer at Temple University for over 15 years. Ed is a straight talker and has strong opinions when it comes to the business of marketing. We discuss his early years in Japan getting beat up with bamboo sticks everyday, working with bureaucrats, and starting his own business after only five years in Japan. Ed has a fascinating...2022-01-2342 minLogrollCarl Anka: You Are A ChampionIn this episode of Logroll I spoke to Carl Anka, writer for the Athletic, about his book You Are A Champion, which he wrote with professional footballer Marcus Rashford. It is a book for children, so we talked about getting the tone right, as well as lots about how you get hired for a project like this, and how to balance the needs of the writer, famous co-author and publisher. It was recorded way back in summer of 2020, so some of the football references are dated.You can buy Carl and Marcus’s book, You Are A Champion, he...2022-01-221h 03
Book Talk Today with Aun Abdi#58: Inside The World of Comedy: At The Comedy Cellar: Interview with Andrew HankinsonOn Episode #58 of the Book Talk Today podcast we are joined by Andrew Hankinson
Andrew is writer in Newcastle upon Tyne, northern England. He’s written for many different publications including Wired, The New Yorker and the BBC and has reported from places such as Haiti, Iraq and Ukraine.
We discussed:
📚 Comedy at the Comedy Cellar
📚 Comedy & Free Speech
📚 The future of comedy
Visit Andrew’s Website - https://andrewhankinson.com/
Buy Andrew’s Book - https://amzn.to/3FTJM3D2022-01-191h 01
Now and Zen JapanEvan Burkosky: Digital Transformation EvangelistThis episode is an entertaining and stimulating conversation with a forward-thinking, self-described "Evangelist" for for Digital Transformation in Japan, Mr. Evan Berkosky. Before you decide to tune-out because "Digital Transformation" sounds unexciting, Hold On! Evan makes this topic both insightful and relevant and shares his ideas on how he would initiate quick wins to transform Japan digital landscape if he were to hypothetically, be appointed to the newly created "Japan Digital Agency". What's more entertaining than listening to foreigners give their opinion on how to improve Japan? In this case however, Evan truly knows his area of expertise. We also di...2022-01-0944 min
Now and Zen JapanYukie Kito: Award Winning Film ProducerThis episode I have an entertaining conversation with an old friend of mine. Yukie Kito is an award winning movie producer with over 20 films to her credit. This is really an "insiders" episode where we talk about her life, challenges, and successes as an independent producer and really gain a lot of insight into the Japanese film industry: What has happened to creativity and how some missteps have allowed S. Korea to become Asia's entertainment powerhouse. She talks about some great memories making movies and anecdotes about Hollywood stars. Other topics we discuss:What a film producer actually d...2021-12-2344 minLogrollSuzy Hansen: Notes on a Foreign CountryIn this episode of Logroll I spoke to Suzy Hansen, contributing writer for New York Times Magazine, about her book, Notes on a Foreign Country. We talked about why she moved to Istanbul, how the idea for the book changed, and the things she included which might make us flinch but why it was important to include them. You can buy Suzy’s book, Notes on a Foreign Country, here:https://uk.bookshop.org/books/notes-on-a-foreign-country-an-american-abroad-in-a-post-american-world/9781472153883She also recommended The Home That Was Our Country by Alia Malek, which you can buy here:2021-12-101h 07
Now and Zen JapanMats Lindstrom: Ducati Motorcycles President JapanIt's time to get your motor running and head out to the highway. This episode I speak with the president of Ducati Japan Mr. Mats Lindstrom. You do not need to be a "bike guy" or a "gear-head" to enjoy this conversation with Mats. We chat about "Empowerment" in Japan, his unique strategy and reasons for conducting management meetings in English, and his biggest takeaways from days at IKEA when he arrived in Japan to set up the first stores in 2005. Of course we also talk about the bike business, specifically how he differentiates Ducati from the established domestic br...2021-12-1042 minLogrollAndy Miller: The Year of Reading DangerouslyThis episode I spoke to author Andy Miller about his book 'The Year of Reading Dangerously: How Fifty Great Books Saved My Life'. We spoke about what made that book special, why he had such a gap between his books, and about writing about himself as a character.Here is a link to buy his book: https://uk.bookshop.org/books/the-year-of-reading-dangerously-how-fifty-great-books-saved-my-life/9780007255764He also recommended 'Like a Fiery Elephant' by Jonathan Coe. There's a link to buy that here: https://uk.bookshop.org/books/like-a-fiery-elephant-the-story-of-b-s-johnson/9780330350495Finally, you can order my...2021-11-261h 31
Now and Zen JapanKaren Hill Anton: Author, The View from Breast Pocket MountainThis episode we are treated to a wonderful conversation with an amazing woman who continues to have a fascinating life. Karen Hill Anton discusses her memoir "The View from Breast Pocket Mountain". Published in late 2020 the book has received numerous literary awards and has a 5 start rating from Amazon. We talk about her motivation behind writing her 1st book, she offers solid advise for anyone contemplating a memoir, dive into some of the back stories and highlights from her book, and the challenges not only she had to deal with but what every writer of a memoir faces. The Vie...2021-11-2339 minLogrollHelen Lewis: Difficult WomenThis episode I spoke to Atlantic writer Helen Lewis about her book 'Difficult Women: A history of feminism in 11 fights'. We spoke about digging through archives, writing about complicated people, and the benefit of interviewing people as they get older.Here is a link to buy Helen's book: https://uk.bookshop.org/books/difficult-women-a-history-of-feminism-in-11-fights-the-sunday-times-bestseller/9781784709730She also recommended 'The Undoing Project' by Michael Lewis. There's a link to that here:https://uk.bookshop.org/books/the-undoing-project-a-friendship-that-changed-the-world/9780141983042If you'd like to buy either of my books they are both available here:2021-11-121h 01
Now and Zen JapanMac Salman: Discovering the World of Japanese Adult Beverages and Customized ToursThe phrase "Do what you love and you never have to work another day in your life" fits Mac Salman perfectly. Mac left the finance industry and pursued his passions - Travel, Japan, and tasty spirits. We discuss his customized tour business Maction Planet where he has never conducted the same itinerary twice. Then his pivot to Kanpai Planet when the pandemic halted Japan tourism. We discuss these two businesses and life in Tokyo while we sample three "Japan Related" tequilas. Mac is an inimitable and articulate British gentleman who does his homework. He brings insider knowledge and back st...2021-11-0843 minLogrollChris Heath: FeelAn interview with GQ writer (for the American edition) and author Chris Heath about his book about Robbie Williams, 'Feel'. We also talked about his Pet Shop Boys books, 'Literally' and 'Pet Shop Boys versus America'.Here is a link to buy Chris's books: https://uk.bookshop.org/contributors/chris-heathChris also recommended 'Love Me Do!' by Michael Braun. It doesn't seem to be stocked in a lot of the bookshop I'd normally link to, but you can buy it here:https://www.amazon.co.uk/Love-me-do-Beatles-Progress/dp/0140022783Thanks...2021-10-291h 08
Now and Zen JapanMeshida: Japanese Stand-Up ComedianMeshida is an ex-Japanese salaryman turned English language standup comedian. For the past eight years Meshida has been performing his style of comedy in both Japan and the UK. In addition he is a successful YouTuber, mostly known for his comedic commentary on Japan's "pink" culture despite his many other "wholesome" cultural topics. We discuss why he decided to become a full-time standup comedian, the difference between Japanese and Western humor, stories from the stage, how much he earns from YouTube viral videos, where he gets his joke writing inspiration, and what his parents and Japanese audiences think about hi...2021-10-2439 minLogrollTerri White: Coming UndoneAn interview with author Terri White about her memoir 'Coming Undone'.Here is a link to buy Terri's book:https://uk.bookshop.org/books/coming-undone-a-memoir/9781786896810Terri also recommended 'Into the Woods' by John Yorke. You can buy that here:https://uk.bookshop.org/books/into-the-woods-how-stories-work-and-why-we-tell-them/97801419781092021-10-141h 10
Now and Zen JapanKaki Okumura: Japanese Principles to Live a Longer & Happier LifeThis conversation is one of the most amazing I've had since starting Now and Zen Japan. This episode could certainly change your life. Especially if you suffer from unhealthy lifestyle habits. Prepare to be blown away by Kaki Okumura's wisdom, demeanor, and insight into well-being and nutrition. Kaki breaks down Japanese based wellness concepts through her "Four Essential Pillars to Healthy Living" in a very convincing and non-preachy way. She is a writer, an illustrator, a wellness coach, and very well could be a therapist or nutrition teacher. In addition to her fascinating backstory which includes her experience with foo...2021-10-0645 minLogrollEd Caesar: The Moth and the MountainAn interview with 'New Yorker' writer Ed Caesar about his book 'The Moth and the Mountain' and his career before he wrote it, including his debut book 'Two Hours'.2021-09-301h 08
Now and Zen JapanAnthony Griffin: Global Communications EntrepreneurIt's a real feel-good conversation with uber positive and incredibly humble entrepreneur Anthony Griffin. He is the founder of Saga Consulting where he "helps organizations and individuals tell their story to the world". It's global communications through excellent copy-writing, digital marketing, and cross-cultural coaching. Anthony often writes insightful and though-provoking articles for Kokoro Media on LinkedIn. He is especially passionate about Japanese language learning and frequently offers tips on how to take ones Japanese to the next level. We both offer our three suggestions for basic but "culturally impactful" Japanese words every beginner of Japanese language should master. Other topi...2021-09-2544 min
Now and Zen JapanDon Bunkenburg: Taking the Lufthansa Group in Japan to new heightsWe all miss traveling, and this episode I get to speak with long-time, airline professional, Don Bunkenburg. Don is the Senior Director in Japan for the Lufthansa Group. Which includes Swiss Airlines, Austrian Airlines, and Germany's Lufthansa. We talk about how Lufthansa competes in the Japan market renowned for its level of service and hospitality, the "No risk culture" similarities between Germany and Japan, how each airline in the group tailors their service offering to reflect the culture of each country, the steps required to actually fill up an airplane day after day, how Lufthansa changed from a process dr...2021-09-0941 min
Now and Zen JapanFrank Foley: Japan's "Next Big Thing"Frank Foley is a charismatic 30-year Japan professional with a deep understanding of character licensing, content marketing, and IP management. He was the country manager for Guinness World Records Japan where he successfully shifted the business model from wacky and crazy to a more Japan focused local strategy. Even participating in the record-setting worlds largest beef skewer event. Frank has represented IP entertainment brands from the Rolling Stones and Ariana Grande to children's educational brands including Thomas the Train. Frank is currently the owner of Next Big Thing which is actually the name of one of two TV shows h...2021-08-2242 min
Now and Zen JapanRobert Whiting Part 2: "Tokyo Junkie" Baseball Stories and morePart 2 of my interview with author Robert Whiting about his recent best selling memoir "Tokyo Junkie" 60 years of bright lights, back alleys, and baseball. In this episode, Bob tells great stories about colorful foreign players and well-known Japanese baseball stars. Part 2, we talk mostly about the baseball stories from his memoir, but also get into the important story of how writing his first book "The Chrysanthemum and the Bat" completely changed his life. Together with episode #1 this is another important and rare opportunity to hear the history and evolution of Tokyo, from one Olympics in 1964 to the the current...2021-08-0935 min
Now and Zen JapanRobert Whiting: "Tokyo Junkie" 60 Years of Bright Lights, Back Alleys, and Baseball - Part 1I have been a big fan of Robert Whiting ever since I read "Chrysanthemum and the Bat" back in high school in the 1980's. Numerous, critically acclaimed books later, I sit down with Bob to discuss his latest book, a memoir, "Tokyo Junkie" 60 Years of Bright Lights and Back Alleys . . . and baseball. We discuss his firsthand insights into six decades of entertaining, dangerous, bizarre, and heartfelt experiences sandwiched between the 1st Olympics in 1962 to the current 2021 games. This is part 1 of a 2 part podcast interview. This episode covers the "Bright Lights and Back Alleys" of Tokyo Junkie with the 2n...2021-07-2442 min
Now and Zen JapanAndrew Hankinson: Leadership in Japan and stories from a 30-year Japan veteranThis episode is #40, and the content is a little different from the past 39 episodes in that today's guest is . . . myself. It's actually a re-purposed podcast from Dr. Greg Story's "Japan's Top Business Interviews" podcast. I was a guest on his show in early 2021 and took that content and edited it to use for this Now and Zen's 40th episode. The original podcast (thus this episode) we discussed my 30 year journey from department store buyer to helping everybody in love with culinary, achieve their ultimate kitchen lifestyle. We talk about leadership in Japan and my numerous experiences doing business in Japan...2021-07-1037 min
Now and Zen JapanAlex Debs: Luxury Travel DesignerHave you ever dreamed of an ultimate luxury vacation in Japan? If so, then Alex Debs is your man. He is the founder of Hitotoki, the Luxury Travel Designer. This episode you will hear all the intimate details of luxury travel planning in Japan including the most demanding request his team was tasked with. We find out how he has been coping despite the restrictions imposed by the pandemic, the struggles as a small & specialized agency and dealing with the large Japan travel associations, exclusive itinerary suggestions for a 2-3 day-trip out of Tokyo, why he launched a club for...2021-06-2340 min
Now and Zen JapanParissa Haghirian: Japanese Management ExpertParissa Haghirian is an internationally renowned expert on Japanese Management and Leadership and a Professor of International Management at Sofia University. She is the author of 12 books on Japanese Management, Cross-Cultural topics, and Consumer Dynamics. We examine these as well as some cultural concepts from her latest book. We also discuss how Japanese management practice is uniquely different, successful Japanese corporate survival strategies and what foreign firms can learn, why cross-cultural business issues are often Japan specific, and her favorite language concept "50 ways to say No in Japanese which don't actually include No". Other topics of interest:In-depth exp...2021-06-0642 min
Now and Zen JapanPaul Kraft: Gummy Bear President JapanEverything you ever wanted to know about the grocery & convenience store business in Japan with Haribo Japan President, Paul Craft. He is an expert on Japan's packaged consumer goods market. Paul started his Japan career 13 years ago with Starbucks Japan, then launched HoneyBaked Ham (their first ever foreign expansion), and has been the country manager for Haribo Japan since 2018. We discuss the production of a localized Haribo TV commercial with real Sumo wrestlers, inside info on distribution and sales strategies at CVS and grocery stores, his successful experiences earning "brand legitimacy", packaging localization advise and tactics, and why chewing gu...2021-05-2542 min
Now and Zen JapanJeff Crawford: Digital Marketing Expert & SEO advise for you!Jeff Crawford is the president of Zo Digital, a bi-lingual digital marketing agency he founded over seven years ago. He describes many of the mistakes foreign companies make when setting up their web presence in Japan and explains how to remedy these issues. What hidden gems can be discovered in your site analytics to improve eCom sales. Why Japanese sites are often so busy and loud. Simple and practical advise on how to increase traffic and improve conversion rates through "Authoritativeness" and "Trustworthiness". This might sound a bit technical but Jeff explains it all in a very easy to u...2021-05-0845 min
Now and Zen JapanNeil Butler: Metropolis Magazine CEO and "Aussie Beef" Marketing VirtuosoNeil Butler is a 40-year Tokyo veteran and CEO / Publisher of Metropolis Magazine. Neil is well-known in Japan from his successful 13 year stint with Australian Meat & Livestock where he coined the catch-phrase "Aussie Beef" and you will hear this great marketing success story during this episode. However for the past 13 years, he has been the driving force behind the free Tokyo magazine Metropolis and its on-line version. Neil talks about his numerous challenges he has faced in the publishing business and some of the opportunities he has discovered during this pandemic. He offers advice on working in Japan, his pr...2021-04-2542 min
Now and Zen JapanAiko Smith: On-Line Casino CEO wants you to win, big!A fascinating look into the on-line gaming business in Japan with Aiko Smith, the CEO of Aloha Shark Casino. Aiko has more than 15 years experience in this exciting industry and is one of the pioneers in the Japanese on-line casino market. This episode you will hear how Aloha Shark localizes their site for Japanese players, learn about on-line casino’s “Payout Percentage” and how this compares to other forms of gambling in Japan. How the potential future legalization of land casinos in Japan will effect her business, who is a typical on-line casino player in Japan, the largest payout on Alo...2021-04-1043 min
Now and Zen JapanKatheryn Gronauer: Helping Foreigners Thrive in JapanKatheryn Gronauer is the founder of Thrive Tokyo. She is a cross-cultural trainer and business coaching entrepreneur based in Tokyo. We speak about the most common cultural frustrations newcomers to Japan face and how she helps them overcome these challenges. As a young entrepreneur, discuss self-branding and how she markets her services, how her early start in health coaching led to the beginnings for Thrive Tokyo, an in-depth analysis of Japanese communication styles and why this topic is often the biggest mystery for foreigners in Japan, and the "Oh crap" moment and results, when she landed her first big co...2021-03-2142 min
Now and Zen JapanDr. Greg Story: Japan Sales, Business, Presentations Master & AuthorLearn how to become a confident public speaker, a more effective presenter, and the formula for influential story-telling. Dr. Greg Story is the president of Dale Carnegie Japan and the best-selling author of "Japan Sales Mastery" and "Japan Business Mastery". We discuss successful sales techniques and how the sales process will change post COVID and other topics from his books. We debate if his six different podcasts is "too much content", and Greg tells stories of true-life experiences which compliment his great business tips, insights, and advise. Being a 6th- degree black belt in Karate and 36 years in Japan, t...2021-03-0747 minJapan's Top Business Interviews Podcast By Dale Carnegie Training Tokyo JapanBest of the Best: 39: Andrew Hankinson, President, Zwilling J.A. Henckels JapanWe have decided to re-publish this excellent interview with Andrew. Andrew Hankinson is the President of Zwilling J.A. Henckels Japan and host of the podcast Now and Zen. Originally from Seattle, Washington, Mr. Hankinson’s passion for Japan grew at a young age, having been exposed to Japanese culture by family members living in the country, leading him to learn the language from high school. After briefly teaching English in Osaka, Mr. Hankinson returned to Japan with a degree in international business and Japanese language from the US. He shortly began working at a Jap...2021-02-261h 11
Now and Zen JapanDeanna Elstrom: Japan Consumer Insights SpecialistDeanna Elstrom is a veteran brand marketer, brand strategist, and consumer insights specialist. She has recently launched her own company called Somi Insights, where she combines her love of branding with a fascination of how culture influences human behavior. Japanese consumers is a key area of Deanna's expertise as she led two major agencies during the past seven years in Japan. We discuss the the Japanese name "Somi" which she coined, we learn the big difference between "insights" and "findings", great examples of how culture influences behavior in Japan, a cultural analysis into why Japan is ranked #58 on the G...2021-02-2239 min
Now and Zen JapanEric D'Ignazio: Hospitality Business EntrepreneurEric D'Ignazio is a 14-year Japan hospitality veteran who's resume includes InterContinental Hotels and the The Accor Group. Eric has spent his entire professional life working in Japan and has had a very non-traditional hotel career path where he eventually became Representative Director at Accor for seven years. It seems his destiny was to work in hospitality as he got his start as a child working at his grandfather's Italian restaurant in Philadelphia. Eric recants the training and cultural insights gained from his career start with a very traditional Japanese company. We talk about his new company AssistINT he c...2021-02-0843 min
Now and Zen JapanTaro Asano: Traditional Japanese Sword CraftsmanDive into the world of traditional Japanese sword making with craftsman Taro Asano. He is one of only a handful of practicing "Kajiya" (a person who forges Japanese swords / Katana) still in Japan. He also offers a workshop in English where people come to make their own custom-forged "Samurai knife". It's a unique once in a lifetime experience. We discuss all things Katana, how he became a Kajiya, his future plans - which include taking on a 20-year old American apprentice and creating a You-Tube channel to chronicle their adventures, and why Japanese sword/ blacksmithing is more popular with f...2021-01-2138 min
Now and Zen JapanMatthias Sutter: Luxury Hotel GM & Hospitality LeaderMeet a true Hospitality Professional. Mr. Matthias Sutter, the Rep. Director of Shangri-La Hotels Japan and the GM of the Shangri-La Hotel Tokyo. We discuss Japanese customer service, how different nationalities have different hospitality expectations, his two requirements for anyone to succeed in the hotel business, and how starting off in Food & Beverage helped craft his strong sense of hospitality. We also talk Trip Advisor, hotel rankings, and the guest comments he likes the most. If you are curious about how luxury hotel GM's think, practice, and teach customer service and hospitality, this episode is a must-listen. Other topics we...2021-01-0743 min
Now and Zen JapanTimothy Langley: Renowned Japan Business and Political Advisor & AdvocateAn amazing and iconic Tokyo veteran - Timothy Langley. With over 40 years experience in Japan, Timothy is the founder of Japan's premier government & public consultancy Langley Esquire. Most unique about Timothy, he was the first foreigner to work in the Japan National Diet working alongside many senior Japanese politicians. In addition he has served as top Legal & Gov't Affairs Specialist for Apple Computer (Japan), General Counsel to General Motors (Japan) and director of numerous companies from start-up to fortune 100. Although on hiatus he is also Host & Executive Producer of Japan's only Public Affairs-related audio/video series, Tokyo on Fire! Whe...2020-12-2645 min
Now and Zen JapanGuy Perryman: Award-Winning Broadcaster & Radio PersonalityAward-winning broadcaster and radio host Guy Perryman. Guy's soothing and melodic voice has been heard throughout Japan for the past 30 years starting with the launch of Virgin Megastores in 1990 and then Tokyo's InterFM since 1997. In addition, he's a voice actor, event producer, and writer. He has DJ'd for British Royalty and interviewed 100's of world famous artists and businessmen from Paul McCartney and Sting to Richard Branson and designer Paul Smith. We discuss some of these interactions and hear a couple celebrity stories as well as learning about being awarded the official title of MBE from the British Government. We...2020-12-0749 min
Now and Zen JapanSeth Sulkin: Gourmet Food Delivery & Hotel Development EntrepreneurJapan veteran and savvy businessman Seth Sulkin. He is the founder of Pacifica Capital an international hotel developer and operator. He has also recently become a disruptor in the restaurant food delivery business with the launch of his new gourmet restaurant food delivery app Food-e. In this episode we learn all about this booming industry, why before Food-e high-end restaurants couldn't or wouldn't join delivery apps, and the innovations which convinced these reputable restaurants to sign on. As Seth states, "It's the quickest sell I've done in 35 years of doing business in Japan". We also discuss developing hotels in Ja...2020-11-2244 min
Now and Zen JapanLoic Bizel: Japan Fashion Trends Expert / Founder of "Leo & Lea"This episode we discuss fashion in Japan and premium dog food. Not two topics often mentioned in the same sentence, but very related to today's guest Mr. Loic Bizel. Loic started his own fashion consulting business in Tokyo nearly 30 years ago and runs two very successful fashion related websites (see links in the notes below). He was one of the co-founders of the fashion "flash sales" site Gladd.jp in 2009. He's referred to as a "Trendspotter" and "Cool Hunter" by the media and is considered one of the utmost foreign experts on Japanese fashion trends. In 2017 he started a...2020-11-0745 min
Now and Zen JapanCynthia Usui: Author, Career Re-Inventor, and Female Empowerment CoachThis episode I speak with Cynthia Usui. Author of Eight things Full-time Housewives Should do Before Entering the Workforce . After 17 years as a stay-at-home mom, Cynthia successfully re-launched her career and quickly rose to the managerial ranks. She now coaches housewives who want to return to the workforce, how to follow in her footsteps. Cynthia shares many tips and much wisdom from her amazing journey "from Mother to Management". Other highlights from our conversation:The work-life balance should be measured from a long-term perspectiveWhy it was easier for her to re-invent her career with a non-Japanese hotel3 metrics to...2020-10-2245 min
Now and Zen JapanBrendhan Kelly: Hospitality Communication ManagerThis episode I speak with Brendhan Kelly, the Hospitality Communication Manager for the Tysons Group of restaurants. Tysons is most well known for Ivy Place, Cicada, Smokehouse, and the iconic TY Harbor Brewery in Tennozu Isle. If you have dinned at any of these restaurants you were most likely impressed with the unique level of personalized hospitality. This is a direct result of Brendhan's input and influence. We discuss Tysons brand of "Global Hospitality" and how he trains and imparts this with staff and mentors and empowers them to become "experience creators". You will also hear about how after y...2020-10-0737 min
Now and Zen JapanMike Howard: Life after publishing "The Salaryman"This episode I welcome back Mike Howard. It has been seven months since we first met on this podcast to promote his just published book "The Salaryman". Since then, there have been a lot of changes in Mike's life - many good, some negative, and one huge life altering decision. Mike discusses these developments as they relate to his book. This episode was spontaneous as we had originally planned to just meet for a "farewell" drink (spoiler alert) but we ended up recording and it became pretty self-reflective but also a lot of fun. Some other highlights from our c...2020-09-2739 min
Now and Zen JapanDominic Carter: Japan Market Entry and Branding ExpertThis episode I sit down with Dominic Carter, an expert on Japan market entry, market research, and branding. Dominic shares great insight, knowledge, and current research results, for anyone working in Japan or looking to expand into Japan needs to hear. Today you hear his 3 Golden Rules for Japan market entry success, the 4 Marco Trends shaping modern Japan, as well as numerous great quotes about how to succeed in the Japanese market. This is must listen to anyone doing business in Japan. Other topics we discuss: How the future of Japan will be better with a smaller working po...2020-09-0751 min