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.

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 an intriguing turn as she found her calling in teaching and eventually connected with Planet Labs through a serendipitous meeting with their founder, Tamaki Nishimura. Listen as Monika shares how these experiences shaped her role in promoting cultural preservation through innovative vacation rentals. Japan's tourism landscape is a fascinating blend of modernity and tradition, yet there's often a disconnect between government initiatives and the authentic experiences sought by foreign visitors. Monika sheds light on this topic, sharing her insights into fostering genuine connections through a decentralized autonomous organization (DAO) structure at Planet Labs. This approach not only empowers investors to become co-owners but also aligns with the Japanese concept of 'ibasho'—creating spaces where individuals can truly be themselves. Monika's passion for community engagement and sustainable living shines through as she discusses projects like the renovation of a historic temple and the Bamboo Forest House in Hayama. The conversation explores Monika's deep appreciation for Japanese culture, touching on the harmonious principles of wa and the unmatched hospitality of omotenashi. As Monika discusses her personal journey to understanding ikigai, we explore the balance between individualism and collective harmony, offering a fresh perspective on how these cultural values differ from those in Europe and Slavic regions. Finally, Monika shares the excitement of expanding Planet Labs' community projects, with a focus on building meaningful relationships and embracing the unique dynamics of new communities. Join us as we immerse ourselves in the spirit of collaboration and cultural preservation driving Monika's endeavors.

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.

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 needs, from life satisfaction to self-development. We'll dismantle the Westernized Venn diagram interpretation and debunk the notion that Ikigai is solely an Okinawan treasure. It's time to understand how these elements contribute to a truly fulfilling life. Our exploration doesn't stop at individual well-being; we also dive into the broader societal implications of Ikigai. Drawing from Nick Kemp's perspectives, we examine practices like Nikon, yutori, and shinrin-yoku that emphasize gratitude, relaxation, and connection with nature. Discover how cultural nuances and language can impact not just our personal Ikigai but also that of others. And as AI technology advances, we explore how it might offer new sources of meaning and purpose in our rapidly evolving world. Whether you're curious about the philosophical depths of Ikigai or its practical applications, this episode promises a transformative insight into living a balanced and purposeful life.

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.

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 can play a pivotal role in optimising your business processes.

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.

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.

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 Japanese culture has sculpted her professional journey and enriched her personal life. Explore the concept of lean coaching as we trace its roots back to the Toyota production system. Katie and I discuss the power of setting goals, developing pathways, and fostering a learning mindset, applicable to both sizable organizations and individual solopreneurs. Discover the profound meanings of the Japanese words kokorozashi and shiko, which encapsulate the alignment of purpose with actions for meaningful impact. Hear the inspiring story of Katie's cross-cultural friendship with Mr. Isao Yoshino and the life-changing collaboration that ensued. We share the importance of meaningful conversations, the essence of leadership development, and the transformational power of Japan Study Trips. This episode is packed with insights on finding balance, purpose, and achieving continuous improvement in both personal and professional realms. Don't miss out on this enriching conversation that promises to leave you inspired and motivated!

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 professional lives

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 Japanese society.

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.

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 of ikigai.

Have you heard of the Mother of Ikigai While 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 ikigai In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, join Nick and Kei Tsuda as they explore the life and remarkable achievements of Mieko Kamiya.

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 and direction in life.

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 episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Momoe about strategies for integrating Zen eating into our lives.

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 of practising mindfulness in our dietary choices, exploring the principles of Zen eating as a pathway to enhanced well-being.

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 into Japanese concepts that offer insights on achieving both physical well-being and a sense of purpose.

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 like the Venn diagram clashes with the fluid, intrinsic understanding of Ikigai in Japan. Kei, initially a skeptic, now uses the Ikigai framework as a compass, guiding individuals towards a life rich with fulfilment. Embark on a journey through the multifaceted world of Ikigai, where alignment with personal values is the cornerstone of true satisfaction. Through the metaphor of constructing LEGO sets, we illustrate the joy and individuality inherent in the pursuit of life's meaning. Does financial gain play a role in the quest for Ikigai? We navigate this question with insights from Dr. Yasuhiro Kotera and Mieko Kamiya, painting a broader picture of the many dimensions of joy and fulfilment. Whether it's the serenity of solitary creation or the exuberance of collaborative innovation, this episode offers a fresh perspective on finding one's purpose and the spectrum of feelings that signal you're on the right path.

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. Trav reveals the seminar spark that ignited his journey as a global ambassador for this enriching philosophy, and together, we unpack the art of using time and money to not only create but also live a legacy that transcends material wealth. Trav also lays down The Bucketlist Challenge, calling on listnerers to put pen to paper and make your life ambitions known—for a bit of friendly accountability. Listen in as we discuss the power of setting and sharing your goals, and how doing so can help you feel more ikigai in your life.