Business Karaoke Podcast with Brittany Arthur

Brittany Arthur

The Business Karaoke Podcast is both a podcast but a community of global leaders who exchange stories to modernize the dialogue around business in and with Japan. The Business Karaoke Podcast is sponsored by Design Thinking Japan. read less
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Episodes

A Human-Centric Approach to Change Management with Ryan Hart
Sep 5 2024
A Human-Centric Approach to Change Management with Ryan Hart
Send us a textWelcome to this episode of the Business Karaoke Podcast, where we delve into the transformative world of design thinking and change management with Ryan Hart, a seasoned expert in customer experience and innovation. Ryan's journey spans multiple industries and continents, bringing a wealth of knowledge from his work with global giants like PwC, HSBC, and Pacific Life. In this episode, Ryan shares his insights on how organizations can successfully navigate the complex landscape of innovation by reframing problems, empathizing with users, and fostering both top-down and grassroots change. Whether you're a leader seeking to drive organizational transformation or an individual aiming to make an impact from within, Ryan's practical advice and compelling stories offer invaluable guidance. Join us for an engaging conversation that uncovers the secrets to unlocking innovation and achieving lasting success in today's fast-paced business world. Don't miss out on these powerful lessons that could change the way you approach business challenges!Key Points and Takeaways✨ Reframing Problems for InnovationKey Point: Organizations often focus on solving the wrong problems due to misidentified issues.Takeaway: Start by reframing the problem to understand the core issues, often through customer research and usability testing, to drive innovation effectively.✨ Importance of Customer-Centric DesignKey Point: Empathizing with user needs is essential for successful change management and design thinking initiatives.Takeaway: Conduct deep research to understand customer and employee needs, ensuring that solutions are aligned with their expectations.✨ The Role of Change Management in Design ThinkingKey Point: Change management is integral to implementing design thinking and innovation strategies.Takeaway: Approach change as a collaborative process, involving stakeholders at all levels to ensure initiatives are adopted and sustained.✨ Challenges and Opportunities in TransformationKey Point: Transformation efforts must consider organizational maturity and readiness for change.Takeaway: Be aware of the "frozen middle" in organizations and work to engage all employees in the change process.✨ Balancing Leadership and Grassroots InitiativesKey Point: Successful change requires both top-down and grassroots support.Takeaway: Encourage leadership to be accessible and foster grassroots initiatives that empower employees to drive change.Five Key Quotes from Ryan Hart"Reframing the problem is often the first step in truly understanding the core issues organizations face.""Empathy is at the heart of successful design thinking and change management; without it, initiatives often fail to resonate.""You can't change the direction of an oil tanker on a dime; transformation takes time and commitment.""Grassroots initiatives, driven by passionate employees, can be just as powerful as top-down strategies in driving change.""Always keep an eye on the needs of the customer; they will guide you toward the right direction."Connect with Ryan here.
"MADE IN JAPAN;  Manufacturing in Japan as a Foreign-Led Startup." with Beau Becker
Jul 4 2024
"MADE IN JAPAN; Manufacturing in Japan as a Foreign-Led Startup." with Beau Becker
Send us a textWelcome to this episode of the Business Karaoke Podcast, where we explore the intricate dynamics of manufacturing in Japan as a foreign-led startup. Today, I am incredibly proud to introduce Beau Becker, a unique mix of entrepreneur, executive, and engineer, who is making waves in Japan's business landscape. Beau is the Founder of Reiwa Pharmaceuticals and brings a wealth of experience in international business development, strategic partnerships, and manufacturing operations, with notable experience in both Japan and China. His journey from the United States to Japan, and his dedication to cultural integration and linguistic proficiency, offers invaluable insights into building strong manufacturing relationships in Japan. Join us as we dive into Beau's experiences, challenges, and the lessons he's learned along the way.Key Points and Takeaways✨ Trust in Manufacturing Partnerships 👉 Key Point: Trust is the cornerstone of successful manufacturing partnerships in Japan. 🎯 Takeaway: Building trust requires direct communication and frequent visits to manufacturing sites to foster mutual understanding and reliability.✨ Cultural Integration and Language Proficiency 👉 Key Point: Mastering the Japanese language and understanding cultural nuances are crucial for effective business operations. 🎯 Takeaway: Invest time in learning the language and culture to build stronger, more respectful business relationships.✨ Flexibility in Product Development 👉 Key Point: Flexibility and adaptability in product design are essential when working with Japanese manufacturers. 🎯 Takeaway: Be prepared to make adjustments based on manufacturing capabilities and quality standards to achieve successful outcomes.✨ Challenges for Startups 👉 Key Point: Finding reliable partners and maintaining quality are significant challenges for startups in Japan. 🎯 Takeaway: Approach initial product designs with flexibility and adapt them to align with manufacturing capabilities.✨ Long-Term Vision and Commitment 👉 Key Point: A long-term commitment and vision are vital for sustained success in the Japanese market. 🎯 Takeaway: Cultivate enduring relationships with partners and continuously strive for improvement and innovation.Five Key Quotes from Beau Becker"Trust is the cornerstone of successful manufacturing partnerships in Japan. Without it, you can't build anything lasting."Emphasizing the fundamental role of trust in business relationships."Learning Japanese and embracing the culture are not just beneficial; they are essential for anyone serious about doing business here."Highlighting the importance of cultural and linguistic integration."Flexibility in product design and development is crucial. You have to adapt to the manufacturing capabilities and standards here."Stressing the need for adaptability in product development."Startups face the dual challenge of finding reliable partners and maintaining high-quality standards. It's not easy, but it's possible with the right approach."Discussing the challenges and opportunities for startups in Japan."A long-term commitment to your vision and partnerships is what will ultimately lead to success in the Japanese market."Advocating for a sustained, long-term approach to business.These insights and more await you in this episode of the Business Karaoke Podcast. Tune in to learn from Beau Becker's rich experiences and gain a deeper understanding of building successful business relationships in Japan.
メイド・イン・ジャパンの強みを活かす:製造パートナーシップの極意 with Beau Becker
Jun 20 2024
メイド・イン・ジャパンの強みを活かす:製造パートナーシップの極意 with Beau Becker
Send us a text先日のビジネスカラオケポッドキャストでは、Beau Becker氏が日本の製造業について語りました。彼は、成功するためには製造パートナーとの信頼関係が欠かせないと強調し、工場を直接訪問して信頼を築く重要性を説きました。また、スタートアップにとって、信頼できるパートナーを見つけることや品質を維持することが大きな課題であることも共有しました。そのため、初期の製品デザインに対して柔軟性を持ち、製造能力に合わせて適応させることが求められると述べました。外国人でもあるにもかかわらず、Beauさんは私にもっと日本語のエピソードを復活させるよう勧めてくれた。だから、久しぶりの日本語エピソードとして彼を紹介できることをとても嬉しく思う。さらに、彼は日本語スキルの重要性にも触れ、日本の製造業者との円滑なコミュニケーションのためには日本語が不可欠であると強調しました。Beau Becker氏は、日本の製造業は高品質と信頼性で知られており、円安が外国企業にとって大きなチャンスを提供していることから、「メイド・イン・ジャパン」ブランドの強みを活用するべきだと語りました。最後に、製品開発においては妥協が必要であり、最も重要な側面を優先しつつも柔軟に対応することが成功の鍵であると述べました。Beau Becker氏の経験と洞察は、日本の製造業と協力する際の課題と機会を深く理解するための貴重な指針を提供しました。以下は、ビジネスカラオケポッドキャストのエピソードのハイライトと学びです。✨ 製造パートナーとの信頼構築の重要性 👉 ポイント: 製造パートナーとの信頼関係が成功の鍵。 🎯 学び: 工場を訪問して直接コミュニケーションを取り、信頼を築くことが大切。✨ 製品開発の課題 👉 ポイント: 信頼できる製造パートナーを見つけ、品質を維持するのは困難。 🎯 学び: 初期デザインを製造能力に合わせて適応させる柔軟性が必要。✨ 日本語スキルの重要性 👉 ポイント: 日本の製造業者と取引する際には日本語スキルが不可欠。 🎯 学び: 交渉やコミュニケーションを円滑に進めるために、日本語を学ぶか、日本語ができるチームメンバーを参加させることが重要。✨ 日本の製造業への楽観視 👉 ポイント: 日本の製造業は高品質で信頼性があり、円安が外国企業にとってのチャンスを提供。 🎯 学び: 「メイド・イン・ジャパン」ブランドを活用し、成長機会を探る。✨ 製品開発の柔軟性 👉 ポイント: 製造能力に適応し、実現可能性を維持するために妥協が必要。 🎯 学び: 製品の重要な側面を優先し、成功するために柔軟性を持つことが重要。LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beaubecker/Website: https://www.reiwaseiyaku.co.jp/
The Strategic Second: Transforming Founder Visions into Pioneering Ventures with Matthew Kyle
Jun 7 2024
The Strategic Second: Transforming Founder Visions into Pioneering Ventures with Matthew Kyle
Send us a textMatthew Kyle is the Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer of weConnect and Co-Founder of Arigato Travel. Matthew shares his remarkable skill in taking a vision to venture, not as the No. 1 but as the No. 2. This important story highlights the often underappreciated role of the second-in-command in business success.Matthew's career is a testament to the power of adaptability, having transitioned from professional basketball to strategic business roles. Known for his genuine curiosity and dynamic communication skills, Matthew has driven impressive growth throughout his career by making his supportive roles incredibly impactful.Tune in to learn how supportive leadership, trust, and effective communication can transform visions into thriving ventures. Whether you're a founder or a supportive leader, this episode offers valuable insights on scaling businesses, managing expectations, and leveraging personal strengths for success. 8 Key Points and Takeaways ✨ Importance of Adaptability and Finding Your Place 👉 Key Point: Matthew emphasized the significance of finding a role that suits you, even if it's not the founder or CEO. 🎯 Takeaway: It's crucial to understand your strengths and passions and align them with a role that allows you to thrive, regardless of titles.✨ The Value of Being a Supportive Number Two 👉 Key Point: Matthew highlighted that you don't have to be the founder to make a significant impact and find fulfillment in your work. 🎯 Takeaway: Embrace roles that allow you to support and amplify the vision of the founder, contributing to the company's success.✨ 3. Expectation Management 👉 Key Point: Mismanaged expectations can lead to disappointment and disengagement. 🎯 Takeaway: Set realistic expectations and strive to under-promise and over-deliver to build trust and maintain motivation.✨ 4. Transition and Evolution 👉 Key Point: Recognize when it's time to pivot or evolve in your career to find fulfillment and happiness. 🎯 Takeaway: Evaluate your current role and assess if it aligns with your long-term goals and personal fulfillment. Don't be afraid to make changes if necessary.✨ 5. The Power of Trust and Communication 👉 Key Point: Trust and clear communication are essential in both professional and personal relationships. 🎯 Takeaway: Cultivate strong, trust-based relationships with your colleagues and partners. Communicate openly and clearly to avoid misunderstandings and build a cohesive team.✨ 6. Balancing Multiple Roles👉 Key Point: Navigating multiple roles, such as being a spouse and business partner, requires clear boundaries and communication. 🎯 Takeaway: Identify and acknowledge the different hats you wear and communicate effectively to balance personal and professional dynamics.✨ 7. Leveraging Personal Skills for Business Success 👉 Key Point: Matthew's experience as a professional athlete and his ability to adapt played a crucial role in his business success. 🎯 Takeaway: Leverage your unique experiences and skills to add value to your business and differentiate yourself in the market.✨ 8. Embracing Continuous Learning and Improvement 👉 Key Point: Matthew emphasized the importance of continuous learning and creating standard operating procedures to scale businesses effectively. 🎯 Takeaway: Commit to continuous improvement and learning. Develop clear procedures to ensure consistency and scalability in your business operations.Connect with Matthew on LinkedIn: https://www.linkehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewkyle/
You Are (Japanese) Enough To Share Your Story with Kyoko Takeyama
May 22 2024
You Are (Japanese) Enough To Share Your Story with Kyoko Takeyama
Send us a textWelcome to another episode of the Business Karaoke Podcast! Today, we have Kyoko Takeyama joining us. Kyoko is a distinguished communication coach with a rich background in helping professionals articulate their unique stories by overcoming their limiting beliefs. With her Japanese heritage, American upbringing, and nearly two decades in Spain, Kyoko brings a truly global perspective to her work and I'm sure lots of you BKP listeners can related to this duality or trinity.  She’s the creator of the CLEAR method, a transformative framework designed to help individuals communicate with confidence and clarity. Kyoko's inspiring journey and expertise in communication will leave you equipped with actionable insights to elevate your professional and personal interactions. 8 Key Points and Takeaways from this week's Business Karaoke Podcast with Kyoko!✨ 1. Value of Unique Perspectives👉 Key Point: Everyone has a unique story and perspective, which is valuable and worth sharing.🎯 Takeaway: Recognize that your personal experiences and viewpoints are valid and can offer significant insights to others.✨ 2. Overcoming Limiting Beliefs👉 Key Point: Limiting beliefs, such as feeling "not enough" in various aspects, can hinder your communication and professional growth.🎯 Takeaway: Identify and challenge your negative self-talk. Understand that your story is just as valuable as anyone else's.✨ 3. Personal Journey and Motivation👉 Key Point: Kyoko's journey from the US to Spain and her transition from teaching English to communication coaching was driven by her desire to help others communicate effectively.🎯 Takeaway: Significant life events, like the loss of a loved one, can be catalysts for pursuing your true passion and committing fully to your goals.✨ 4. Embracing Accents in Communication👉 Key Point: An accent is a part of your identity and can add depth to your story. It should not be seen as a barrier.🎯 Takeaway: Focus on the expertise and unique perspectives you bring to the table, rather than striving for perfect language proficiency.✨ 5. Kyoko's very own CLEAR Method for Communication👉 Key Point: Kyoko's CLEAR method helps individuals articulate their strengths and create impactful messages.🎯 Takeaway: Use the CLEAR method to gain clarity on your strengths and improve your communication skills.✨ 6. Building in the Light👉 Key Point: Sharing personal stories and struggles can build authenticity and stronger connections with your audience.🎯 Takeaway: Don’t be afraid to show vulnerability. It can make you more relatable and trustworthy, enhancing professional relationships.✨ 7. Importance of Travel and Empathy👉 Key Point: Traveling and experiencing different cultures can broaden your perspective and enhance your empathy.🎯 Takeaway: Step out of your comfort zone and explore new environments to grow personally and professionally.✨ 8. Actionable Steps for Addressing Limiting Beliefs👉 Key Point: To tackle limiting beliefs, start by identifying them and brainstorming what makes you a great professional.🎯 Takeaway: Write down your skills and qualitiesGet in touch with Kyoko: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyokotakeyama/
Personal evolution, business revolution with Tyson Batino
Mar 14 2024
Personal evolution, business revolution with Tyson Batino
Send us a textWhy This Chat with Tyson Batino is a Must-ListenEver find yourself wondering how some entrepreneurs seem to effortlessly scale their businesses, transforming from solopreneurs to leaders of thriving enterprises? Or perhaps you've hit a plateau in your growth trajectory and are searching for that breakthrough strategy? If so, our deep dive with Tyson Batino is your treasure map.Here's what we talk about:Unlock the Scaling Code: Tyson doesn’t just share the what of scaling; he gets into the nitty-gritty of the how. This isn’t your average pep talk; it’s a masterclass in actionable strategies, tailored for real-world application.Leadership Transformation Insights: Whether you’re a born leader or a reluctant manager, Tyson’s journey from front-line doer to empowering leader is packed with relatable insights. It’s about finding the confidence to step back, trust your team, and achieve more by doing less.Personal Growth = Business Growth: If you’ve ever doubted the power of personal development in driving business success, this conversation will make you a believer. Tyson and I delve into how evolving as a person can unlock new levels of business achievement, offering a fresh perspective on what it means to grow.Content Creation with Impact: In a world overflowing with content, Tyson’s approach to creating meaningful, valuable material stands out. Learn how to craft content that not just attracts attention but makes a tangible difference in people’s lives.Democratizing Knowledge: Tyson's commitment to making high-quality information and tools accessible is more than just admirable; it’s a blueprint for any entrepreneur looking to make an impact. This chat is a reminder of the power we hold to contribute to a wider community, beyond our immediate business goals.In short, the conversation with Tyson Batino is an essential listen for anyone in the entrepreneurial space looking to level up. It’s not just about the success stories; it’s about the failures, the pivots, and the unlearning that pave the way to real, sustainable growth. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale new heights, there’s something in this dialogue for you.---And here's some great news for BKP listeners. You're among the first to know what Tyson is launching a sales pamphlet accelerator course for the Japan market. Due to the community based decision making process in Japan, the sales pamphlet is SUPER CRUCIAL for anyone wanting more sales in Japan. His live cohort group course is for those who already have sales and are growth minded and want to do even better. Our judge has more than 30 years and has brought in more than 5 companies successfully to Japan. Starting in the middle of May. https://scalingyourcompany.com/salespamphlet/
What is Disrupting Japan with Tim Romero
Mar 5 2024
What is Disrupting Japan with Tim Romero
Send us a textEpisode Overview: In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Tim Romero, the driving force behind the "Disrupting Japan" podcast, to explore the intricate tapestry of Japan's startup ecosystem. Tim shares his rich journey of continuous innovation, the joy of engaging with Japan's most passionate entrepreneurs, and the critical insights he's garnered from transforming passions into impactful projects.What You'll Learn:The Power of Passion Projects: Discover how Tim's love for deep conversations with Japan's change-makers has fueled the success of "Disrupting Japan."Adaptation and Value Creation: Gain insights into Tim's philosophy on the importance of adapting in the fast-paced startup world and finding where you can add the most value.Cultural Nuances in Business: Understand the significance of navigating Japan's unique business culture for startups looking to make their mark.Government's Role in Startups: Learn about the crucial role government signaling plays in elevating the importance of startups in Japan's economy.Seizing Opportunities: Hear Tim's advice on not being afraid to pivot or embrace new challenges when something more exciting comes along.Combining Skills for Unique Value: Find out why blending diverse skills and interests is the key to carving out a unique niche and becoming the best in the world at what you do.Embracing Rapid Transformation: Reflect on Japan's potential for swift change under the right conditions and what this means for future innovators.Why Listen: Whether you're an entrepreneur, a business enthusiast, or someone fascinated by the fusion of culture and innovation, this episode offers a treasure trove of insights on navigating the complexities of Japan's startup scene. Tim's journey from podcasting to green tech and beyond exemplifies the spirit of innovation and the importance of adapting to thrive in today's ever-evolving business landscape.
Embrace the wholeness of your journey with Sarah Furuya
Feb 13 2024
Embrace the wholeness of your journey with Sarah Furuya
Send us a textEMBRACE THE WHOLENESS OF YOUR JOURNEY with Sarah FuruyaDiving into the heart of business innovation, my latest chat with Sarah Furuya on the "Business Character Podcast" unfurled the beautifully complex layers of intertwining personal growth with the fabric of our professional lives. Sarah, with her candid openness and profound insights, shared her journey and the lessons that are reshaping the landscape of her business and coaching practices.Here's what we unwrapped:The Essence of Authenticity: Sarah’s narrative is a compelling reminder that the soul of our business is mirrored in our personal evolution. She eloquently speaks to the notion that businesses thrive not just on the skeletal framework of skills but on the flesh and blood of our personal stories and values. It’s a dance of authenticity where every step is a reflection of who we are.Resilience as Our North Star: Amidst the storms of health challenges and personal milestones, Sarah’s resilience shines like a beacon for all of us navigating the tumultuous seas of entrepreneurship. Her journey underscores the power of embracing our vulnerabilities and using them as a pivot to realign our business compass.The Foundation of Financial Independence: One of the golden nuggets from our conversation was the emphasis on financial security. Sarah’s advice to gradually build a financial cushion speaks volumes about its role as the bedrock on which we can freely experiment and innovate within our businesses.Navigating with Intuition and Incremental Shifts: Tapping into intuition and embracing the magic of small, yet consistent changes in our approach can lead to monumental shifts in our business trajectory. Sarah’s practice of integrating intuition into her business decisions serves as a masterclass in steering through the entrepreneurial fog with an inner compass.The Power of Storytelling: Our dialogue ventured into the realm of storytelling, highlighting its potency in connecting, healing, and inspiring. Sarah’s experiences remind us that our stories are not just narratives but are the very threads that connect us to our audience and to the deeper parts of ourselves.Sarah Furuya’s reflections are a mosaic of resilience, authenticity, and the transformative power of personal stories in the business domain. As we weave our own tapestries, let's remember the value of integrating our personal journeys into our professional narrative. The conversation with Sarah is a beacon, illuminating the path to a business that doesn’t just exist but truly lives and breathes the essence of who we are.Dive into the full conversation for a treasure trove of insights on melding the personal with the professional in the most harmonious ways.Get in touch with Sarah here; https://www.sarahfuruya.com
Two births: a baby and a business with Brittany Arthur
Jan 22 2024
Two births: a baby and a business with Brittany Arthur
Send us a textPodcast Episode: "2 Births: My Journey of Motherhood and Entrepreneurship"🌍 "Join me on an extraordinary journey across continents and through the transformative realms of motherhood and business creation in my latest episode, '2 Births: Welcoming My Son and Incorporating in Japan.' This isn't just my story about embracing new life and new ventures; it's a heartfelt exploration of balancing the personal and the professional.👶 In the first part of this episode, I invite you into my intimate and life-changing experience of becoming a mother. From the joys and challenges of breastfeeding to juggling remote work with caring for my newborn, I share my honest, and sometimes humorous, insights into the world of a working mom. I delve into how I navigate the intricate dance of professional ambition while deeply committing to my child, challenging myths and societal expectations along the way.🌸 Then, journey with me to Japan, where I embark on a bold entrepreneurial adventure. Hear about my captivating experiences of setting up a business in a foreign land, the cultural challenges I faced, and the invaluable lessons I learned in adapting to a new way of life. It's more than a business story; it's about prototyping a life that values flexibility, innovation, and the courage to follow unconventional paths.💡 Throughout the episode, I share practical wisdom for anyone navigating similar paths. From involving your partner in decision-making to finding the right work-life balance, and embracing the concept of living 1% of your dream every day, these insights have been game-changers for me.🌟 Whether you're a new parent, an aspiring entrepreneur, or someone who loves stories of personal growth and resilience, this episode offers a piece of my world. Tune in to '2 Births: Welcoming My Son and Incorporating in Japan' for an inspiring, thought-provoking, and heartwarming tale of navigating life's most beautiful and challenging adventures.🎧 Available now on all major podcast platforms. Join me in this blend of personal anecdotes, professional insights, and global adventures!"
The Business of Gaming is not a Game with Dr. Serkan Toto
Jun 20 2022
The Business of Gaming is not a Game with Dr. Serkan Toto
Send us a textIn this episode we are joined by Dr. Serkan Toto, CEO and founder of Kantan Games, a Japan game market consultancy. As you know, I approach any conversation we have on the Business Karaoke Podcast as if we're on a learning journey together. With all of the conversation around the Metaverse, NFTs, Crypto currencies  and a 2021 study showing that consumer gaming is bigger than movies and music combined, I thought it about time to dive into this topic that I've always known to be synonymous with Japan with a very real business case but that was about where my awareness ended. Which is why I invited Dr. Serkan Toto, a native of Germany but a local of Tokyo with extensive experience in gaming advisory, to walk the Business Karaoke community through this introduction of how in fact the business of gaming is everything but a game.In this episode we explore; The players in the current gaming climate - from the big brands to the amateur game developer, Drivers of change and new business models,Lessons for industry (from gaming),If we will ever see a virtual Olympics,The changing faces of athletes; Ninja and Lando Norris andThe next content wave - Metaverse, NFT and gaming.I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did. I've linked all of Serkan's info in our show notes so feel free to connect with him and follow his work directly. Let me know your thoughts on this episode by reaching out to me on LinkedIn or over on Instagram under @Business Karaoke Podcast. ___Follow Serkan and more of his work here:Website  |  https://www.serkantoto.com LinkedIn  |  https://www.linkedin.com/in/serkantoto/
Connecting Multidisciplinary Points of View Through Metaphor with Jennifer Shinkai
Mar 29 2022
Connecting Multidisciplinary Points of View Through Metaphor with Jennifer Shinkai
Send us a textIn this episode we are joined by Jennifer Shinkai. You may know Jennifer as the founder and host of the Ikigai podcast or of the on-line community, Make March Matter. Today she joins us wearing yet another hat. This time of diversity and inclusion workshop facilitator.Jennifer walks us through both the how and the why of metaphor being a powerful tool for communication in your team. I wanted Jennifer to join us on the Business Karaoke Podcast to learn about how she uses metaphor as a tool for divergent thinking. I've spoken quite a bit that in my work with Design Thinking and innovation we use a specific structure to explore the problem and the solution. We diverge and then we converge, that means that we first go wide, go broad, go deep on a subject and then only after doing that do we synthesize. As I am always on the look out for how other facilitators, industries or methodologies provide structure to divergent conversation, my hope was to learn something. Perhaps that I could add metaphor to my divergent facilitator tool kit. And I can happily report that was absolutely the case. Not only did I learn about metaphor as a communication tool but I've used it in workshops since with some surprising results. Hold on to the end of the episode when I test out my own metaphor skill, in real time. If we only ever have a conversation the way we've always had it, we will only ever yield the results we've already seen. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did! Don't forget to share you feedback with me on your favorite social media platform 🙏✨Let's begin!💡Key Conversations04:50 | The development Make March Matter from idea to community of 400+ people12:00 | Authenticity in multi-cultural environments 23:00 | Points of View - if an image is worth 1000 words a metaphor is 1000 meetings36:15 | Examples from the field and a stand out story for Jennifer  45:30 | Creating the space need to explore new perspective 53:15 | Jennifer's own Ikigai---Here's where you can find out more about Jennifer ⬇️Website  |  https://jennifershinkai.comMake March Matter | https://www.facebook.com/groups/makemarchmatter2020/LinkedIn  |  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifershinkai/
The facilitator experience is also an experience; the remote work hero with Jakob Knutzen
Mar 11 2022
The facilitator experience is also an experience; the remote work hero with Jakob Knutzen
Send us a textIn this episode we are joined by Jakob Knutzen. Jakob is one of 3 founders and the CEO of Butter - a full workflow for complex collaborative sessions which supports facilitators.Here's the story of how I connected with Jakob and why I wanted to introduce him to you, too. A few weeks ago, I posted my remote facilitator set up on LinkedIn and I asked for others to share any other of their favorite facilitator hacks or tips and almost instantly I had people tagging Jakob in the comments , asking "have you tried butter?" Hop forward a week, I connect with Jakob and he walks me through the most engaging, thoughtful and attentive space for collaboration I have ever personally experienced. It made me realize, after achieving participant comfort in remote sessions, it's now time shift the focus to the driver's seat, the facilitator. Where maybe, just maybe, we should have begun all along. Anyhow, I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I did and be sure to share you feedback with my on your favourite social media platform.Let's begin!💡Key Conversations09:00  |  Start Up 1 to Start Up 2: How learning from past failure can set you up for future success.21:10  |  The undesigned-for user is remote work is... the facilitator!32:20  |  Building the right it and building it right: designing and prioritizing for user engagement 42:25  |  Inspiration from extreme users43:50  |  Leadership style changing over time and holding space for feedback54:20  |  The next tech-steps in enhancing Here's where you can go to connect with Jakob or know more about butterLinkedIn  |  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakobknutzen/
Everyone is Your Customer but You with Fuminori Gunji
Jan 27 2022
Everyone is Your Customer but You with Fuminori Gunji
Send us a textIn this episode we are joined by Fuminori Gunji. Gunji was a founding team member of Softbank Robotics from 2013 to 2016, leading Softbank's domestic B2B businesses and overseas expansion efforts. In 2017, Fuminori Gunji headed business development for MakeLeaps. By the end of 2018, Gunji had successfully closed MakeLeaps’ M&A deal with Ricoh and went on to lead MakeLeaps in 2019 as COO until resigning in 2021. Fuminori is an adviser at Blue Circle and a mentor for 500 Startups, a global VC firm.In this episode we do something different. Rather than having an English and a Japanese episode we are promoting a new model and mixing it all up in the one episode. The first half is in English and we dive in Gunji-san's journey of being raised in German, Japanese and English and how he leveraged his unique background to ever be creating new opportunities and value for his customers and then we switch to Japanese and talk about everything from reverse culture shock to the challenges surrounding the Japanese model of 'copy paste' when it comes to global expansion and about the mindset shift that happens when you think of every single person around you as a customer.I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did. I'd invite you to go ahead and share this episode with anyone in your network who might benefit from it.Key conversations🇬🇧  04:35  | Gunji-san's Journey 🇬🇧 16:00   |  Lessons applicable from big corporations that served Gunji-san well in his startups🇯🇵 35:55  |  Reverse culture shock🇯🇵 46:40  |  Reflections on Japanese management practice To learn more about Gunji-san, connect with him here:LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/fuminori-gunji-38a22589/Blue Circle | https://www.bluecircle.co.jp/
VR & the Metaverse - a CEO Perspective with Takuma Iwasa
Jan 12 2022
VR & the Metaverse - a CEO Perspective with Takuma Iwasa
Send us a textIn this episode we are joined by Takuma Iwasa. Iwasa-san is the founder and CEO of IOT consumer electronics company, Shiftall Inc. I first met Iwasa-san when I visited his Tokyo offices with a mural friend. I say office but it really is more like a buzzing lab. Each person uniquely designed their own workplace with things that inspire them and it's not uncommon to see people walking around wearing prototypes. When Facebook changed their named and unveiled the concept of the Metaverse and VR as the next phase of the internet, I thought who better to talk to about all this than someone who already lives there.In this episode, Iwasa-san shares his journey from being a curious student of computers to his role as the founder and CEO of Shiftall. We explore the gaps in expectation of VR, the Metaverse as the internet 2.0 and the kinds of contributions Iwasa-san sees his company making to build that reality.I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did and moreover, I hope it brings you value and is worth your time. Let's begin!Key Conversations05:45  |  When did you fall in love with computers & Intro to Iwasa17:05  |  Shiftall current team and how they come up with new products23:40  |  Gaps; Localization and exhibition and end user 31:43  |  Metaverse as Internet 2.036:05  |  Halitrax and preparing for the Metaverse45:48  |  Metaverse use cases53:35  |  What's the Japanese pulse on privacy and Iwasa's hope looking forwardThis episode is also available on YouTube ⬇️https://youtu.be/2cTqyIkD1OIFind out more about Iwasa-san here:Website | https://ja.shiftall.netTwitter | https://twitter.com/warenosyoLinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/warenosyo/
Developing Desirable Futures with Human Centered Design with Chris Pacione
Oct 12 2021
Developing Desirable Futures with Human Centered Design with Chris Pacione
Send us a textIn this episode we are joined by the Co-Founder and CEO of LUMA Institute, Chris Pacione. Chris leads a highly-skilled, multidisciplinary team of designers and practitioners located around the world who are passionate about fostering the practice of design thinking among individuals, within teams, and across entire organizations. He is co-author of the LUMA System and the book “Innovating for People” and has been awarded numerous US and EU patents for his work.This episode is quite special for me for a few reasons; as I referenced on the podcast but maybe not gone into too much detail, Human Centered Design, or HCD and Design Thinking, is a cornerstone of my work igniting the change I wish to see in the world. And I use the LUMA System, which Chris as part of developing, to do it. This episode is the beautiful collisions of my Business Karaoke World, Human Centered Design World and Design Thinking Japan World and I couldn't be happier to share it with you.We'll define Human Centered Design and make the case that everyone is a Designer. We'll explore how that Design literacy may become as important as Math literacy for the modern knowledge worker. We'll talk about the innovation environment leadership will need to build in order to see a return on investment of up-skilling their people to a basic level of Design literacy. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did and moreover, I hope it brings you value and is worth your time. Let's begin!💡Key Conversations05:00  |  With the definition of Design, everyone is a Designer.15:30  |  The role of Design literacy in the economy may become as important as Math literacy in the industrial revolution23:30  |  The evolving dialogue and misconceptions between Business & Design 32:35  |  What does change look like in organizations with long and richer histories42:25  |  Is there a HCD metric we can look to?46: 55 |  The Karaoke Innovation Mindset51:00  |  How Leadership can create an environment for innovation57:35  |  The daily business of creating extraordinary things----To know more about Chris or the LUMA System, have a look here:LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-pacione-ceo-luma/Website | https://www.lumaworkplace.com
Podcasting is Curiosity and Active Listening; Not so Much the Mic with Jayne Nakata
Aug 24 2021
Podcasting is Curiosity and Active Listening; Not so Much the Mic with Jayne Nakata
Send us a textIn this episode we are joined by Jayne Nakata. Jayne is the creator of PodLaunch with Jayne and the host of the Transformations with Jayne Podcast.  Jayne story's  one day noticing that there was no voice of other women like herself: foreign, a mother and living outside of the major cities in Japan, feeling isolated and alone in their daily lives to not only publishing over 100 episodes but empowering other women in Japan to overcome the challenges of bringing their voices to the podcasting world. I wanted to share the lessons of; curiosity, listening and overcoming perceived circumstance to create something new and become an industry thought leader in the process, with the Business Karaoke community as even if you're not building a podcast, I'm sure' you're facing similar situations in your businesses, teams or departments. We dive into what it means to lead by listening, the difference between those who do and those who don't after having a "I should have a podcast moment," the opportunity for women to name and claim a niche dialogue and if the best tools result in the best podcasts. I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I did. Please go ahead and share your thoughts with me on your favorite social media platform. Also, I have some news for you, the Business Karaoke Podcast is now also on Instagram. Follow us over at @BusinessKaraokePodcast to be the first to see our memorable moments from each episode.Let's begin!Key Conversations 💡05:40  |  Leading by listening 10:55  |  Beyond the "I should have a podcast moment"23:25  |  Where are the women in podcasting?33:55  |  Do the best tools make the best podcasts?41:45  |  Moving from downloads to KPIs with contextThis episode is also available on YouTube ⬇️https://youtu.be/tix4W9biFc0To know about out more about Jayne, follow these links ⬇️Website  | https://www.jaynenakata.com/podcastconsultingFacebook  |  https://www.facebook.com/transformationswithjayneInstagram  | https://www.instagram.com/transformationswithjayne/LinkedIn  | https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaynenakata/
スタートアップの創設者をより大きな投資に導くwith 堀江愛利
Aug 12 2021
スタートアップの創設者をより大きな投資に導くwith 堀江愛利
Send us a textこのエピソードで堀江愛利さんあ来ていただきました。堀江愛利さんはWomen's Startup Lab(WSUL)の創設者兼CEO。 WSULはシリコンバレーにあるアクセラレーターです。 WSULは、イノベーションとコラボレーションを通じて女性の成功に取り組んでいます。堀江愛利さんは情熱、結果、そして人前で話すことで国際的に有名です。 さらに、堀江愛利さん最近、アントレプレナー誌によって2020年の100人のPowerful Woman の1人desu。この会話では、色々な面白いテーマについて話します。例えば、なぜ堀江愛利さんは大企業から起業家精神に移動したのか、どうやって堀江愛利さんはシリコンバレーの風景を影響しているのか、堀江愛利さんとWSULのチームは、どうやって女性のスタートアップ創業者が成功するために独自にサポートしているか。10代の留学生の経験でも、現在のシリコンバレーの成功でも、やっぱり同じ一生懸命を頑張っている、笑っている、堀江愛利さんのですね。この会話を楽しんでいただければ幸いです。 InstagramやLinkedInでみなさまの考えやコメントを是非是非共有してください。愛利さんをもっと知りたい方へ、以下のリンクをご覧ください。LinkedIn  |  https://www.linkedin.com/in/arihorie/WSUL  |  https://womenstartuplab.com
Steering StartUp Founders to Greater Investment with Ari Horie
Aug 12 2021
Steering StartUp Founders to Greater Investment with Ari Horie
Send us a Text Message.In this episode we are joined by Ari Horie. Ari-san is the Founder and CEO of Women's Startup Lab (WSUL). A Silicon Valley based accelerator dedicated to creating a world where women thrive and succeed through innovation and collaboration. Ari is internationally recognized for her passion, results and public speaking prowess and was recently listed as one of the 100 Powerful Women of 2020 by Entrepreneur magazine. In this conversation we dive into Ari's unique reason to move from corporate to entrepreneurship, why Ari is working so tirelessly to change the landscape of Silicon Valley and how she and her team at WSUL create opportunities for female startup founders to accelerate their path to success and funding. What I found so interesting about the decision to focus on female founders was not that Ari was deeply passionate  about women's issues, rather she saw a target group suffering under an unmet need, and in the true spirit of an entrepreneur, she flew in solved it.Listening to Ari's share her story, whether it's the formative experience of her time as an student exchange or the impact she's created with WSUL; it's all been done with the same can-do, laugh so before we attitude. Ari-san really is the image of how we do one thing is how we do everything. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did. Please share you thoughts or comments with me over on Instagram or LinkedIn.💡 Key Conversations04:25  |  The courage to share when it's not going well07:35  |  Ari's move from corporate to entrepreneurship 12:50  |  The pushback from old systems on new businesses 22:40  |  Balancing structure and uncertainty31:40  |  The business of investing in women To know more about Ari or WSUL follow the links below:LinkedIn  |  https://www.linkedin.com/in/arihorie/WSUL  |  https://womenstartuplab.com