The Ikigai Podcast
Nick Kemp from Ikigai Tribe explores the true Japanese meaning of ikigai and how to apply it to find purpose, joy, and meaning in daily life. Through interviews with professors, authors, and experts, as well as case studies of people living their ikigai, the podcast covers topics like rituals, morning routines, confidence, relationships, and starting a meaningful online business.
Episodes
Ikigai, Zero Waste and Local Wisdom in Kamikatsu with Satoshi Nonoyama
A former would-be astronaut helps a tiny town in Japan teach the world how to live lighter. Yuki Ohata returns with Satoshi Nonoyama, founder and CEO of Pangea, to unpack why Kamikatsu, Tokushima has become a magnet for sustainable tourism, study tours, and corporate learning trips. This conversation is recorded in Japanese with interpretation support, and it’s packed with practical lessons you ca
Wisdom of the Shoguns with Maoko Miami
The fastest way to lose your edge is to confuse information with wisdom. We sit down with Tokyo-based Japanese calligrapher and author Naoko Omikami to talk about her new book, *Wisdom of the Shoguns: Valuable Life Lessons from Japan’s Greatest Warriors*, and why it’s designed to be read slowly, not binged.We get practical about the history without turning it into a lecture, clearing up the roles
Beyond Myself 8: Eight Powers for Navigating an Uncertain World
The world is changing fast, and “just be strong” is not a plan. I’m joined by my good friend, clinical psychologist and author Professor Daiki Kato to share the thinking behind his new book Beyond Myself 8 and the BM8 framework: eight practical psychological powers that help us stay steady, connect deeply, and move forward with purpose when life feels uncertain.We dig into why non-cognitive skills
How Ikigai Can Support Recovery from Workplace Trauma with Dorothy Dalton
A single ignored greeting can sound small until it becomes the daily signal that you do not belong. We talk with Dorothy Dalton, a global HR leader and inclusive workplace champion, about what gender balance looks like when you have lived through normalized sexism, and why so many organizations still fall short on psychological safety and fair treatment.Dorothy shares how workplace harm has shifte
Life Needs A Role with Yūki Ōhata
A grandmother stops farming and something quietly disappears: her energy, her rhythm, her reason to get up. That single story becomes the thread that ties everything together as we talk with Yuki Ohata, representative director of Sanchi No Mikata in Shizuoka, about Ikigai as a lived practice instead of a business buzzword. Yuki’s work sits right at the intersection of purpose, Japanese agriculture
Trust and Leadership: An Entrepreneur’s Journey in Japan with Timothy Connor
Japan can look easy from the outside: huge buying power, world-class retail, and consumers who love quality. Then you try to sell there and discover the real barrier isn’t your product. It’s trust, context, and the unglamorous work most brands skip.We sit down with Timothy Connor, CEO of Synnovate, a bilingual and bicultural entrepreneur who has called Tokyo home for more than 30 years. Timothy sh
Beyond Engagement with Olesia Kyrylchuk
On this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, we talk with Olesia Kyrylchuk about what happens to purpose when life gets disrupted, from relocating to Japan after the war in Ukraine to rebuilding belonging through community and work. We connect the global engagement slide to a deeper meaning problem and lay out a practical path for HR leaders who want work to feel worth doing.• Olesia’s move to Japan, cu
Ikigai And Belonging with Kumiko Sugiyama
One Japanese word can change your life. It did for us, and it’s how we met Kumiko Sugiyama, a Japanese language coach, business Japanese trainer, and ICF Associate Certified Coach who blends language learning with coaching, communication skills, and a deep love of Japanese culture.We talk through Kumiko’s real-world path across sales, parenting, startups, community work, and finally teaching Japan
Reflecting to Thrive with Chie Sawa
On this episode of The Ikigai Podcast, I talk with Chie Sawa, founder of Thrive Life Design, about why all leaders need a sanctuary to pause and reconnect with themselves. We also explore reverse culture shock, the power of co-reflection, and how structured tools like Tarot readings for reflection can create clarity without crossing into therapy. We explore:• Chie’s journey from Japan to the US an
Reflections on A Year Of Ikigai with Nicholas Kemp
Caitlin Kight returns again to host the Ikigai Podcast to interview Nick on his new book, A Year of Ikigai. In this episode, Nick shares how Japanese voices, careful cultural research and daily prompts, helped him write a book that the reader can actually use. This epsidoe covers: • A 365-day reflective journey built around roles, relationships, rituals, contribution, and belonging • How this boo
Unlocking Cross-Cultural Communication in Japan with Shohei Yoshida
The Power of Awareness: How Kizuki Moments Transform Our Lives with Mae Yoshikawa
What if the feeling you’re most afraid of could become your clearest compass? Our conversation with Mae Yoshikawa begins in the hard places—parental divorce, a mother’s early-onset dementia, and the sudden death of a spouse—and unfolds into a practical path for turning pain into insight. Mae introduces Kizuki, the Japanese idea of an awakening moment of clarity, and shows how these flashes can be
Aligning Work with Purpose: A Conversation with Tina Bagwell
What if the problem isn’t workload, but identity? We sit down with coach and HR leader Tina Bagwell to explore how many of us let a single role—the job—define who we are, and why that narrow frame leads to exhaustion, disengagement, and a loss of joy. Tina’s journey starts in Okinawa, where simple rituals, community, and omotenashi left a lasting imprint that later shaped her approach to leadershi
Expanding Your Inner Capacity: The Utsuwa Philosophy with Shigeki Nishimura
What if the key to better work and wiser leadership isn’t adding more tools but building a bigger vessel? Shigeki Nishimura—author, cross-cultural leadership coach, and former global executive—joins us to introduce Utsuwa, the Japanese concept of inner capacity. Drawing on two decades in Germany and a career bridging Japanese precision with European efficiency, Shigeki shows how a clay tea bowl ca
A Year of Ikigai
Nick celebrates the launch of A Year of Ikigai and read the book’s introduction, separating myth from meaning and showing how purpose lives in daily moments. Nick shares why Ikigai is felt more than defined, and how small sources of value build a life worth living.This episode covers:• what ikigai means in simple, daily terms• why popular Western takes miss the point• the problem with the four-cir
Turning Pain Into a Gift: The Kintsugi Life of Kiki Fukai
A single fall changed everything. When our guest, life coach and digital nomad Kiki Fukai, crashed into a tree on a routine run, she shattered her skull and—unexpectedly—found a new way to live. What followed wasn’t a quick comeback story. It was a careful rebuild guided by kintsugi, the Japanese art of mending with gold, and a daily practice of acceptance that turned constant pain into a steady r
Anxiety as a Compass: Exploring Ikigai, Empathy, and Emotional Wellbeing with Catherine Deeks Gnocchi
Anxiety isn’t a malfunction to be silenced; it’s a message asking to be heard. We sit down with therapist and educator Catherine Deeks Gnocchi to rethink fear through the lenses of evolution, mindfulness-based psychotherapy, and Japanese ikigai—revealing how anxiety can guide you back to your values and toward a life that actually fits.Catherine breaks down the nervous system in plain language: an
Discovering Ikigai Through Art and Martial Arts: A Conversation with Baptiste Tavernier
Start with a vision, test it in the dojo, and forge it in a studio where code becomes sculpture. That’s the journey we explore with Tokyo-based French-Spanish artist and independent curator Baptiste Tavenir, whose life bridges Japanese martial arts, musicology, and 3D-printed fine art in ways that feel both unexpected and inevitable.We talk about the leap that changed everything: leaving a Paris l
The Transformative Power of Travel: Insights from Jake Haupert
What if your next trip did more than entertain you—what if it changed you? We sit down with Jake Haupert, founder of the Transformational Travel Council, to unpack how intentional journeys can help you stretch, learn, and grow into new ways of being. Rather than racing through bucket lists, Jake invites us to slow down, clarify our why, and design experiences that align with values, purpose, and c
Japanese Wisdom for a More Meaningful Life with Saori Okada
What if the words you use could change the way you breathe? We welcome author Saori Okada back to share the heart of her new book, Wisdom of Japan, a collection of 60 concise concepts designed to calm a rushed life and rekindle everyday meaning. Saori opens up about crafting short reflections that still feel true, and the painstaking process of pairing each idea with a ukiyo‑e print so the art dee
Reflections from the Japan Leadership Experience: Live from Tokyo with Katie Anderson
On episode 118 of the Ikigai Podcast, Katie Anderson and Nick Kemp reflect on a Katies's Japan Leadership Experience - a week in Japan exploring how kaizen, rolefulness, and community design create real leadership growth. Katie and Nick share how relationships open doors, purpose fuels energy, and small rituals like greetings change how teams feel and perform.On this episode we cover:• connec
Understanding Academic Yarigai with Yu Kanazawa
Ever study hard and still wonder why it feels empty? We dive into academic yarigai—the lived, situational meaning that makes learning feel worth doing—and map out nine practical factors that turn study from grind to growth. With Dr. Yu Kanazawa, associate professor at Osaka University, we explore how a refined approach, adapted from the Ikigai-9 scale, unites engagement, curiosity, flow, social co
Understanding Psychological Flexibility: The Key to Emotional Resilience with Ross White
Ever feel like your mind is running the show—and not in a good way? We sat down with clinical psychologist and author Ross White to unpack psychological flexibility, a practical skill that helps you have difficult thoughts and feelings while still taking the actions that matter. Instead of fighting your inner weather, Ross shows how to bend like a tree: anchored in the moment, willing to feel, and
The Shared Wisdom of Stoicism and Ikigai with Ken Mogi
What if the hard road is the honest road—and also the most creative? Neuroscientist and author Ken Mogi joins us to explore how Stoicism and Ikigai converge on a single idea: live in alignment with nature, accept limits with grace, and let difficulty forge depth. We move from the awe of a first butterfly to the precision of a rocket launch, tracing how humility, gratitude, and restraint can transf
What Ikigai Really Means: Insights from Japanese Culture with Minako Horaguchi
Meaning doesn’t have to shout to be real. In this conversation with educator and certified life coach Minako Horaguchi, we re-center ikigai where it belongs: in the small daily moments that make life feel worth living—morning coffee in quiet light, a page of honest journaling, the waku waku spark when your heart lifts for no external reason. We unpack why the viral career diagram misses the point
Applying Japanese Wisdom in Counselling with Ai Kihara
"I believe when I sleep at nighttime I die. Then when I wake up I got a new life." These powerful words from Ai Kihara set the tone for a profound conversation about finding meaning through Japanese wisdom traditions.Based in Auckland, New Zealand, Ai brings a unique perspective to mental health practice, drawing from her heritage as a descendant of both spiritual practitioners and samur
The Transformative Effects of Sound Therapy With Nanako Aramaki
What happens when your body can no longer endure the crushing weight of corporate expectations? For Nanako Aramaki, a Japanese-Canadian marketing executive in Tokyo, the answer came through panic attacks, hives, hair loss, and finally, a complete inability to function at work. Diagnosed with "adjustment disorder"—a condition so common in Japan it has its own term—she found herself at a c
Finding and Feeling Ikigai at Work with Kensuke Yamamoto
What if work wasn't something we simply endured, but instead became a vibrant source of meaning and purpose? Kensuke Yamamoto, senior consultant at Vanto Group, joins us to challenge the deeply ingrained assumption that work must be an obligation rather than a wellspring of fulfillment.Against the backdrop of Japan's evolving business landscape—where 99.7% of companies are small and medi
How Ikigai Leads to a Life of Personal Excellence with Andriana Ubunuki Kalfa
What gives meaning to your life when faced with loss and challenge? For Andriana Ubuduki-Kalfa, the answer emerged at her mother's funeral when a Japanese friend approached her about meeting her daughter, saying simply: "she was your mother's ikigai."This profound moment transformed Andriana's understanding of ikigai beyond the familiar Western interpretation of four overl
The Four Secrets to Longevity with Sachiaki Takamiya
What if the secret to living longer isn't found in cutting-edge supplements or complex biohacking, but in the timeless wisdom of Japanese rural communities? In this revealing conversation, 63-year-old biohacker and Ikigai Diet expert Sachiaki Takamiya shares groundbreaking findings from the World Longevity Summit held in Kyotango, Japan – a remarkable longevity hotspot with three times more c
Ikigai Decisions: Aligning Your Life with What Matters Most with Christopher Tan
What happens when a successful financial advisor abandons commissions to build an ethical wealth management company? Christopher Tan takes us through his remarkable journey from sleeping on his family's living room floor to founding Provident, a fee-only wealth advisory firm in Singapore that's redefining how financial decisions serve life's most meaningful pursuits.Chris reveals th
The Rolefulness Book: Why We Wrote It and What We Hope It Brings You
In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick welcomes back Daiki Kato to explore their new book on rolefulness—a concept that empowers people to live more intentionally by embracing meaningful roles in everyday life.
Ikigai Musing With Rock Legend Sunplaza Nakano Kun
Ready to let ikigai rock your world?In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Sunplaza Nakano Kun to explore how his music captures the spirit of ikigai and inspires his fans.Sunplaza Nakano Kun is a Japanese musician, writer, and singer for the band BAKUFU- SLUMP (爆風スランプ). Beyond his music career, he has also worked as a radio personality and author—a man of many talents.
Finding Clarity Through Zazen with Tosei Shinabe
How can we quiet our minds in a chaotic world?In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Tosei Shinabe about how Zen meditation offers a path to deep contemplation and inner stillness amidst the noise of modern life.
Quiet Moments: Finding Peace in the Ritual of Tea with Dairik Amae
What can a single sip of tea reveal?In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Dairik Amae on how the simple act of drinking tea can become a doorway to stillness.
Nature, Rituals, and Kami: Discovering the Essence of Shinto with Taishi Kato
Shinto, Japan's indigenous religion, is strongly rooted in animism, with Japanese believing that objects, places, and creatures all possess a distinct spiritual essence. Shinto does not have a single creator or specific doctrine, and instead exists in a diverse range of local and regional forms emphasising a sacred connection between humans and the natural world.In this episode of the Ikigai
Exploring Fourth Spaces: Where Personal Growth and Meaning Meet with Tomoe Ueyama and Gloria Tam
Where is your place to cultivate meaningful connections and personal growth?In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Tomoe Ueyama and Gloria Tam to explore how fourth spaces can help people build authentic relationships and embark on a journey of self-discovery.
Ikigai and Loss: Finding Meaning in Life’s Hardest Moments
How have you handled loss in your life?In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with June Kashio to explore how embracing Ikigai can provide meaning, resilience, and healing during times of loss.
The Spark of Life: Using Ikigai to Inspire and Empower Others with Katie Sandoe
What gives you energy? What is the spark that lights your fire?In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Katie Sandoe to explore how ikigai can inspire and energize people, helping them rediscover passion and purpose.
Sailing Into Life with Purpose: Navigating Your True Calling with Martin Krafft
Where does life lead us?Life is a journey, and with the right guidance, it can steer us toward our true calling.In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Martin Krafft about his transition from a life at sea to professional training and coaching.
Thinking Through the Body: Cultural Perspectives on Embodied Intelligence with Igor de Almeida
How can we gain a deeper understanding of foreign concepts like ikigai and saudade?While these concepts can be challenging to define, our bodily sensations can offer valuable insights into their deeper meanings.In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Igor de Almeida to explore how cultural concepts like ikigai and saudade are embodied in our physical experiences.
The Outdoors as a Catalyst for Personal Growth and Discovery with Cory McGowan
What can we gain from spending time outdoors?While nature is commonly linked to well-being, it also serves as a powerful tool for personal growth and transformation.In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Cory McGowan to discuss how he integrates nature and adventure into his coaching, helping individuals unlock their full potential and achieve personal growth.
Discovering Ikigai: Making Life Worth Living After Losing Everything To War with Myroslava Marchenko
How do you rebuild your life after losing everything?Coping with loss is one of life’s greatest challenges, yet there are paths to recovery that can help us heal and move forward. One such path is discovering a sense of ikigai.In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Myroslava Marchenko on how individuals can rediscover purpose and resilience in the aftermath of profound loss.
Motivation Through the Brush: How Calligraphy Sparks Inspiration with Naoko Mikami
Can artwork inspire us?Beyond mere decoration, art forms like calligraphy have the unique ability to evoke feelings of motivation and purpose.In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick welcomes back Naoko Mikami to explore how calligraphy can be a powerful source of inspiration, helping to set the tone for a positive and fulfilling day.
Timeless Japan: Preserving Cultural Treasures in a Modern World with Monika Sadkiewicz
Monika Sadkiewicz's journey from Poland to Japan might seem like a story of unexpected twists, but it's a testament to the transformative power of embracing new cultures. In this episode, we sit down with Monika, the dynamic community manager at Planet Labs, as she recounts her life-altering move to Japan as a teenager. With no initial interest in Japanese culture, Monia's path took
Transforming Japan’s Iconic Properties into Vacation Retreats with Tamaki Nishimura
Are you passionate about historic properties?Japan is home to a wealth of historical gems, many of which are in need of preservation.In this blog post, Nick speaks with Tamaki Nishimura to discuss the importance of saving these iconic properties and transforming them into unique vacation rentals.
An AI Book Summary of Ikigai-kan - Feel a Life Worth Living
Unlock the secrets of living a meaningful life as we challenge popular misconceptions about Ikigai in a conversation led by AI co-hosts. Could it be that passion alone isn't the key to happiness? Journey through the complex dimensions of Ikigai as we revisit insights from the book "Ikigai Kan: Feel a Life Worth Living" and Japanese psychiatrist Miko Kamiya's seven psychological
Exploring the Intersection of Behavioral Activation and Ikigai with Nathania Rochelle and Jürgen Hoyer
Can ikigai be used as a treatment?Ikigai is about discovering a sense of purpose, and when applied effectively, it can enhance other Western treatments like behavioural activation, promoting overall well-being.In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Nathania Rochelle and Jürgen Hoyer about leveraging behavioural activation and ikigai for preventive health.
Achieving Success Through 5S Methodology with Steve Beauchamp
Are you seeking strategies to streamline your business operations?Toyota, the renowned Japanese automotive giant, has developed various methodologies to enhance workplace organisation and boost productivity, with one of the most effective being the 5S model.In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick is joined once again by Steve Beauchamp, who shares his innovative take on the 5S model and how it
Biopsychosocial Influences on Ikigai with Takaharu Goto
What influences our sense of ikigai?In exploring the concept of ikigai, it’s essential to understand how various factors contribute to its experience. In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Takaharu Goto about the impact of biopsychosocial factors on one’s experience of ikigai.
Creating Meaningful Messages through Calligraphy with Naoko Mikami
How does one express the self with ink, brush and paper?Many people view calligraphy simply as an art form that showcases beautiful handwriting. However, it is more than just elegant writing; it is a profound way to convey meaningful messages.In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Naoko Mikami about how calligraphy goes beyond aesthetics to express deep thoughts and emotions.
Unlocking Purpose and Leadership through Japanese Philosophy with Katie Anderson
Unlock the secrets to leading a purpose-driven life with internationally acclaimed consultant, leadership coach, and best-selling author Katie Anderson. Dive into Katie's heartfelt reflections on her sources of ikigai, her transformative experiences in Japan, and the deep connections she maintains with family, friends, and professional networks. Learn how her fascination with Daruma dolls and
Embracing Yarigai: Achieving Fulfilment at Work
What makes work fulfilling?For some, work becomes a lifelong dedication. While it may seem extraordinary to others, discovering work that holds meaning transforms it from mere labour into a profound sense of purpose, invoking a feeling of Yarigai.In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick discusses with Professor Hiroshi Nishigori how individuals can uncover meaning and fulfilment in their profes
Exploring Hikikomori: Social Withdrawal and the Need for Connection in Japan with Naomi Berman
How do individuals suffering from social isolation cope?In Japan, there is a sociological phenomenon known as hikikomori, where individuals shut themselves in their rooms, avoiding any form of social interaction. Despite its prevalence, this issue has not received much attention.In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick talks with Naomi Berman about the causes and effects of hikikomori in Japane
Exploring The Wabi-Sabi of Haiku with Misako Yoke
Have you taken a moment to reflect and see the beauty of life?The art of haiku is a wonderful way to be present and express your feelings in the moment. It allows us to savour each fleeting experience, capturing the essence of now.In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick welcomes back Misako Yoke to explore the wabi-sabi of haiku.
Exploring Mieko Kamiya’s Contributions to Understanding Ikigai with Kei Tsuda
Have you heard of Mieko Kamiya and her contributions to the concept of ikigai?Not known to many, Japanese researcher Mieko Kamiya committed to researching the concept of ikigai in-depth, making her works valuable for those seeking a deeper understanding of the concept.In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick and Kei Tsuda delved into the remarkable contributions of Mieko Kamiya to the concept o
The Life and Legacy of Mieko Kamiya with Kei Tsuda
Have you heard of the Mother of IkigaiWhile ikigai has gained recognition in the West, few are aware of the significant contributions made by Mieko Kamiya to its study. Who exactly is Mieko Kamiya, and what impact has she had on the study of ikigaiIn this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, join Nick and Kei Tsuda as they explore the life and remarkable achievements of Mieko Kamiya.
Beyond Self-Defense: Exploring the Transformative Power of Martial Arts with Adam Mitchell
How can practices like martial arts lead to life transformation?While martial arts are often associated primarily with self-defense, their potential goes far beyond mere protection. Delving deeper into the practice reveals a multitude of benefits it can offer. In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Adam Mitchell about how mastering martial arts can provide a sense of fulfilment an
Nourishing Mind and Body: Exploring Zen Eating with Momoe (Part 2)
How can we incorporate Zen eating into our lives?Food is an essential aspect of life, providing nourishment and sustaining us daily. However, it's crucial to be mindful not only of what we eat but also how we consume it. Amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, we often overlook the significance of the act of eating. This is where the practice of Zen eating becomes invaluable.In this episo
Nourishing Mind and Body: Exploring Zen Eating with Momoe (Part 1)
Do you have a healthy relationship with food?Many of us struggle with health issues due to the food we eat. This may result from not paying enough attention to what we put into our bodies. That's why it's crucial to take our eating habits seriously, as they can significantly impact our overall well-being.In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Momoe about the significance
Living with Intent: Finding Purpose in Everyday Activities with Mayumi Kojima
How can we lead a healthy and meaningful life?Striving for both health and meaning is essential for our overall well-being and fulfilment. Several factors may contribute to this, including our relationships, the environment we are in, and even our own values. In Japan, numerous concepts offer guidance toward achieving this balance.In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick and Mayumi Kojima delve
All Things Ikigai with Kei Tsuda
When the path from astronaut dreams to IT expertise took an unexpected turn, Ikigai scholar Kei Tsuda found himself at the crossroads of purpose and profession. This episode unveils Kei's transformative journey, revealing how the pursuit of Ikigai can shape our lives. Our discussion traverses the cultural landscapes of East and West, exploring how the Western craving for structured models lik
Creating and Feeling More Ikigai with a Bucket List
Have you ever ticked off a dream of goal from a bucket list? On this episode The Bucket List Guy, Trav Bell, joins us for a transformative discussion on living life with meaning and intention. This episode isn't just about dreaming; it's a deep dive into celebrating our past wins with a reverse bucket list, and how acknowledging our achievements can launch us toward even greater ones. T
Ikigai & Positive Psychology: Bridging Purpose and Well-being
Can ikigai be related to positive psychology?In the West, ikigai is frequently linked with attaining significant goals and advancing in one's career. However, what many fail to recognize is that ikigai holds greater relevance in fostering our overall well-being.In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Sue Langley about positive psychology and how it ties into the concept of iki
Sustainable Horizons: Shaping a Better World for Tomorrow with Naoko Tomita
What would you like to pass on to future generations?Amid the alarming concern of global warming, it becomes imperative to contemplate sustainable practices aimed at safeguarding nature for future generations. This could be achieved by adopting Sustainable Development Goals, particularly encouraging businesses to lead the way in creating a better living environment for everyone.In this episode of
Embracing AI Opportunities for a Meaningful Life with Kouji Miki
Have you incorporated AI into your work?AI tools have been garnering attention today due to their ability to expedite tasks. While some express concern about the rapid increase of these tools, others find them beneficial, simplifying their work and making it more efficient.In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick discusses with Kouji Miki the significance of AI in providing more opportunities t
Eudaimonia in the Workplace: Cultivating Meaning and Health with Andrew Soren
Do you find meaning in the work you do?Work is a fundamental component of our lives, with the potential to influence our well-being. This underscores the importance of actively seeking ways to find purpose and meaning in our professional endeavours.In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick discusses with Andrew Soren how individuals can find purpose and value in their work.
Heartfulness: A New Perspective on Mindfulness with Stephen Murphy-Shigematsu - Part 2
Do you feel heartfulness as you go about your day?Often, people discuss the significance of mindfulness, emphasising the importance of self-awareness. However, in our pursuit of self-improvement and personal growth, we often overlook the impact we can have on those around us. This is where the concept of heartfulness can prove beneficial—a compassionate and open-hearted approach to life.In this tw
Heartfulness: A New Perspective on Mindfulness with Stephen Murphy-Shigematsu - Part 1
Do you feel heartfulness as you go about your day?Often, people discuss the significance of mindfulness, emphasising the importance of self-awareness. However, in our pursuit of self-improvement and personal growth, we often overlook the impact we can have on those around us. This is where the concept of heartfulness can prove beneficial—a compassionate and open-hearted approach to life.In this tw
Ikigai's Influence on Educators and Students with Matthew Borg
In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick and Mathew Borg discuss the significance of implementing the concept of ikigai within an educational context. How can we promote better education with the help of ikigai?Education holds significance for all individuals, yet at times, it can become a source of stress. This is where concepts like ikigai can prove beneficial, not only for students but also
Can You Really Coach the Ikigai Concept?
Is the ikigai concept something you can coach?In this solo episode, Nick explores this question and looks at how ikigai is relatable to philosophy, positive psychology and existential positive psychology This episode takes a deep dive into the elements central to ikigai; life affirmation, goals/dreams, meaning of life, meaning of existence, sense of fulfilment and commitment, and intertwines them
Nurturing Well-Being With Yutori
Do you have the mental space for peace of mind? Amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, self-care can often be neglected. In Japan, there's a concept known as yutori, which encourages creating mental space—an approach you can adopt and integrate into your own life in this fast-paced world.In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick Kemp explores a sub-theory of ikigai known as yutori, off
Navigating Aida and Intercorporeality with Prof. Shogo Tanaka
In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick discusses the significance of aida (betweenness) and intercorporeality in relation to our embodiment with Prof. Shogo Tanaka.Prof. Shogo Tanaka is a professor of psychology and philosophy at Tokai University in Japan. He received his Ph.D. in philosophical psychology from Tokyo Institute of Technology in 2003. He is primarily interested in phenomenology
The Way of the Bow: Pursuing Archery with Jessica Gerrity
In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Jessica Gerrity about Kyudo, the intricate art of Japanese traditional archery.Jessica Gerrity is a TV personality, writer, and tourism ambassador for Saitama Prefecture in Japan. She moved to Japan from New Zealand over 20 years ago. Beyond her captivating roles, Jessica is a mother of three and also assists in managing a dojo for kyudo, a f
Unveiling a Larger Meaning of Life and Death with Prof. Gordon Mathews
In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Gordon Mathews about finding greater meaning in life through the concept of life after death.Gordon Mathews is an author and professor of anthropology at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. He has written several books, including What Makes Life Worth Living? How Japanese and Americans Make Sense of Their Worlds, which was explored in episod
Co-Designing Companion Robots: Enhancing Ikigai for Older Adults
In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Waki Kamino about designing social robots to enhance the ikigai of older adults.Waki Kamino is a PhD student at Cornell University in human-robot interaction and a research consultant at Indiana University, Bloomington.
Ibasho: Building Connections and Empowerment Through Belonging
In episode 62 of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Professor Haruhiko Tanaka about how having ibasho can serve as a source of empowerment for people.Professor Haruhiko Tanaka recently retired from the role of professor in the Faculty of Human Science at Sophia University. He completed his doctorate at the University of Tokyo’s Graduate School of Education. His areas of research include lifelong
Friendship and Ikigai: The Shared Journey of Meaning and Connection
On episode 61 of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick and his good friend, Masayuki Matsubara, embark on an inspiring conversation about friendship, ikigai, and the power of shared experiences.Masayuki Matsubara is a musician, web designer, developer, and entrepreneur. He has a passion for designing and was awarded the iF Design Award in Germany in 2016.
Navigating Crisis with Ikigai with Jamila Rodrigues
On episode 60 of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick welcomes back Jamila Rodrigues to discuss how having ikigai can help people cope in times of crisis.Jamila Rodrigues is an anthropologist focused on well-being and crisis management. She completed her Ph.D. in Dance Anthropology and Sufism embodied ritual practice at Roehampton University in London in 2017. She worked as a professional dancer and travelle
Unravelling the Beauty of Japanese Craftsmanship with Yujiro Seki
On episode 59 of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with director Yujiro Seki about his film and the importance of craftsmanship in Japan.Yujiro Seki is a filmmaker with a BA in Film from the University of California, Berkeley. After obtaining a permanent US residency, he studied full-time in the Cinematography program at the UCLA Extension. Upon graduating, he embarked on the journey of making his f
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Effective Weight Loss for Moms | High protein, Strength Training, Lose Weight, Meal Planning, Fat Loss, Healthy Habits
