Back

Explore every episode of the podcast The Ikigai Podcast

Dive into the complete episode list for The Ikigai Podcast. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

Rows per page:

1–50 of 130

TitlePub. DateDuration
Achieving Success Through 5S Methodology with Steve Beauchamp02 Sep 202400:49:23

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.



Biopsychosocial Influences on Ikigai with Takaharu Goto07 Aug 202400:36:51

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.


Nourishing Mind and Body: Exploring Zen Eating with Momoe (Part 2)01 Apr 202400:34:38

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.


Nourishing Mind and Body: Exploring Zen Eating with Momoe (Part 1)25 Mar 202400:52:11

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.

Living with Intent: Finding Purpose in Everyday Activities with Mayumi Kojima20 Mar 202400:40:33

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.

All Things Ikigai with Kei Tsuda07 Feb 202400:38:26

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.

Creating and Feeling More Ikigai with a Bucket List28 Dec 202300:35:01

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.

Ikigai & Positive Psychology: Bridging Purpose and Well-being22 Dec 202301:00:49

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 ikigai.

Hey it is Nick Kemp here from IkigaiTribe.com, just before we get into this episode I wanted to let you know I am running a Ikigai Workshop Webinar this month. The workshop is 2-hours long and covers the work of pioneering ikigai researcher Mieko Kamiya. We look at her definition of ikigai and her 7 ikigai needs.

If you are interested go to https://ikigaitribe.com/ikigai-workshop



Sustainable Horizons: Shaping a Better World for Tomorrow with Naoko Tomita14 Dec 202300:52:52

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 the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Naoko Tomita about adopting Sustainable Development Goals within businesses, aiming to forge a better future for all.

Hey it is Nick Kemp here from IkigaiTribe.com, just before we get into this episode I wanted to let you know I am running a Ikigai Workshop Webinar this month. The workshop is 2-hours long and covers the work of pioneering ikigai researcher Mieko Kamiya. We look at her definition of ikigai and her 7 ikigai needs.

If you are interested go to https://ikigaitribe.com/ikigai-workshop


Embracing AI Opportunities for a Meaningful Life with Kouji Miki15 Nov 202300:38:07

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 to discover meaningful ikigai activities.

Hey it is Nick Kemp here from IkigaiTribe.com, just before we get into this episode I wanted to let you know I am running a Ikigai Workshop Webinar this month. The workshop is 2-hours long and covers the work of pioneering ikigai researcher Mieko Kamiya. We look at her definition of ikigai and her 7 ikigai needs.

If you are interested go to https://ikigaitribe.com/ikigai-workshop

Eudaimonia in the Workplace: Cultivating Meaning and Health with Andrew Soren25 Oct 202301:14:11

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 213 Oct 202300:43:37

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 two-part episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick and Stephen explore the concept of heartfulness and embracing an open-hearted approach to life.


Creating Meaningful Messages through Calligraphy with Naoko Mikami01 Aug 202400:56:05

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.



Heartfulness: A New Perspective on Mindfulness with Stephen Murphy-Shigematsu - Part 111 Oct 202300:49:33

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 two-part episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick and Stephen explore the concept of heartfulness and embracing an open-hearted approach to life.

Ikigai's Influence on Educators and Students with Matthew Borg28 Sep 202300:49:21

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 for educators, aiding in the development of a more tailored and effective approach to learning.


Can You Really Coach the Ikigai Concept?10 Sep 202300:24:47

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 with Dr Martin Seligman's PERMA model of flourishing.

Nick also touches on Health and Ikiagi advisors in Japan who help retirees transition from working life to the rest of their life – from becoming “a company person to a social person."  He discuss how these Health and Ikiagi advisors in Japan are required to study Mieko Kamiya's theory of Ikigai and Maslow's hierarchy of needs to gain certification.

By the end of this episode you will have an answers as to  whether ikigai is coachable or not.



Nurturing Well-Being With Yutori07 Sep 202300:12:05

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, offering insights on how it can enhance your well-being and encourage self-care.

Navigating Aida and Intercorporeality with Prof. Shogo Tanaka24 Aug 202300:43:00

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 and psychology, and more specifically, in clarifying the theoretical foundations of psychology from the perspective of embodiment.

The topics of his published papers encompass a broad range of issues, including body schema, body image, skill acquisition, embodied self, social cognition, theory of mind, and intercorporeality. 


The Way of the Bow: Pursuing Archery with Jessica Gerrity14 Aug 202301:17:09

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 form of Japanese archery.

Unveiling a Larger Meaning of Life and Death with Prof. Gordon Mathews01 Aug 202301:06:29

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 episode 2 of the Ikigai Podcast.

Co-Designing Companion Robots: Enhancing Ikigai for Older Adults21 Jul 202300:50:54

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 Belonging26 Jun 202300:39:40

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 education, youth education, development education, and environmental education. He has also written several publications, including, Kaihatsu kyoiku: Jizokukano na sekai no tameni (Development education: Toward a sustainable world) and Wakamono no ibasho to sanka (‘Ibasho’ community for youth and youth social participation).

Friendship and Ikigai: The Shared Journey of Meaning and Connection20 Jun 202300:29:41

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. 


Unlocking Purpose and Leadership through Japanese Philosophy with Katie Anderson28 Jul 202400:49:50

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!

Navigating Crisis with Ikigai with Jamila Rodrigues06 Jun 202300:49:24

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 travelled to different countries, such as the UK, South Africa, and many other countries for 12 years.

She is a visiting researcher at the Marine Climate Change Unit at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology. Her current research is on Embodied ikigai: Japanese women’s narratives on well-being in times of crisis. Jamila was a guest on episode 56, “The Embodiment of Ikigai.”


Unravelling the Beauty of Japanese Craftsmanship with Yujiro Seki24 May 202300:58:16

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 first full feature documentary, “Carving the Divine: Buddhist Sculptors of Japan.” The film has been selected as an official entry in 30 film festivals across the globe, showcased in 22 countries, and earned 13 awards from various festivals worldwide.


The Benefits of Ikigai Bio-Hacking with Sachiaki Takamiya – Part 216 May 202301:02:31

In episode 58 of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick welcomes back Sachiaki Takamiya to discuss how Ikigai bio-hacking can benefit both personal well-being and the environment.

Sachiaki Takamiya is an author and sustainable life coach. He is the author of the Ikigai Diet and Ikigai Bio-Hacking: Bio-Hacking Based on Japanese Natural Health. He was a guest on episode 3 of the Ikigai Podcast - “What Ikigai Means to Japanese'' and episode 57 “The Benefits of Ikigai Bio-Hacking with Sachiaki Takamiya – Part 1”.


The Benefits of Ikigai Bio-Hacking with Sachiaki Takamiya – Part 104 May 202300:51:45

On episode 57 of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Sachiaki Takamiya about applying ikigai bio-hacking to our daily lives to improve our quality of life.

Sachiaki Takamiya is an author and sustainable life coach. He is the author of the Ikigai Diet and Ikigai Bio-Hacking: Bio-Hacking Based on Japanese Natural Health. He was a guest on episode 3 of the Ikigai Podcast - “What Ikigai Means to Japanese.”



The Embodiment of Ikigai with Jamila Rodrigues26 Apr 202301:10:32

On episode 56 of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Jamila Rodrigues about the deep connection between our bodies and our ikigai.

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 traveled to different countries, such as the UK, South Africa, and many other countries for 12 years.

She is a visiting researcher at the Marine Climate Change Unit at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology. Her current research is on Embodied ikigai: Japanese women’s narratives on well-being in times of crisis.



Ikigai and ADHD with Dr. Ariadne Ferro03 Apr 202301:16:31

On episode 55 of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick talks with Dr. Ariadne Maria Ferro Bahuelo about the beneficial effects of ikigai on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Dr. Ariadne Maria Ferro Bahuelo is an adjunct professor at IE University in Spain. She has experience teaching at numerous universities in the United States and Spain. Her previous research examines languages in contact, particularly Spanglish as it is spoken by Cuban U.S. Americans in South Florida, USA.

She is also the executive director of APUNE (Association of North American University Programs in Spain), an intercultural and inclusion facilitator, and an Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI) Qualified Administrator.

Moreover, Ariadne is a certified ADHD coach, a board-certified ADHD educator who coaches clients through her consultancy, The Zunzun, and a member of the Ikigai Tribe coaches.



Possible Impact of Technology on Our Ikigai with Natasha Randall21 Mar 202301:03:26

On episode 54 of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Natasha Randall about how technology can support people in feeling more ikigai in their lives.

Natasha Randall is a Ph.D. candidate in the Informatics Department at Indiana University. Her work focuses on human-robot interaction, specifically consumer-oriented social home robot design where she fuses elements of design, user experience, and market research. 

Her interest lies in applying a strategic design approach to use cases meant for individual growth or social good, such as applications for improving mental health, social isolation, nutrition, habit information, and education. Additionally, she’s interested in how personal robots can be used to teach foreign languages, especially within the home.



The Mindful Playing of the Shakuhachi with Kiku Day08 Mar 202301:10:40

On episode 53  of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Kiku Day about the beneficial aspects of playing the shakuhachi and how it is more than just a musical instrument. 

Kiku Day is a shakuhachi player, a Ph.D. ethnomusicologist, and a world traveller from Copenhagen, Denmark. Her work lies at the intersections of performance of traditional shakuhachi music, contemporary music and improvisation, ethnomusicology, history, politics, meditation, and writing. 

She studied shakuhachi with Okuda Atsuya, one of the foremost performers of jinashi shakuhachi, in Tokyo, Japan for 11 years before returning to Europe to study ethnomusicology at the School of Oriental and African Studies at the University of London. 

Kuki is also a founding member of the European Shakuhachi Society (ESS) for which she served as a chairperson from 2009-2019. She is dedicated to performing on jinashi shakuhachi, both honkyoku and contemporary music, and also teaches the shakuhachi online.


Exploring Japan’s Unique Culture with Benjamin Boas14 Feb 202300:47:22

Benjamin Boas is an American author, translator, and contemporary Japanese culture consultant. He is both the Cool Japan Ambassador for the Japanese government and a Tourism Ambassador for the Nakano ward in Tokyo. He is the author of From Cool Japan to Your Japan and two other Japanese-language books about intercultural education and has written for Studio Ghibli, The Japan Times, and many other publications.

On episode 52 of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Benjamin Boas about the global visibility of Japan’s unique culture.

Exploring Ikigai and Inclusion in Japan with Jennifer Shinkai16 Jan 202301:00:34

On episode 51 of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Jennifer Shinkai about being one and included in Japanese society.

Jennifer Shinkai is a facilitator and executive coach living in Japan. Originally from the UK, Jennifer holds an MA (Oxon) in English Language and Literature from St. Hugh's College, Oxford University. She is an ICF Associate certified coach, Points of You® Expert, and Organization and Relationship Systems Coaching ORSC® Practitioner, and coaches individuals and corporate groups around their ikigai. 

She also has her own podcast and YouTube channel, “Ikigai with Jennifer Shinkai.”


Embracing Yarigai: Achieving Fulfilment at Work27 Jun 202400:53:52

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


Mastering Shodo Through the Brush Strokes of 10 Japanese Words with Rie Takeda20 Dec 202201:17:54

On episode 50 of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Rie Takeda on her recently published book about shodo and how people can practise the art of shodo with the use of 10 fascinating Japanese words.

Rie Takeda is a freelance artist and a professional calligrapher; she has been practising shodo since the age of five, under the creative supervision of her grandmother, a distinguished Gayu calligraphy artist. 

Rie teaches shodo in various countries, including the UK, Switzerland, and Germany. She produces Neo-Japonism paintings, calligraphy works, washi paper and vintage Kimono collages, illustrations, and works in body art. Rie was also a guest on episode 32 of the Ikigai Podcast, where she talked about Mindfulness Calligraphy.



The Beneficial Effects of Japanese Psychology on our Well-being with Carly Taylor02 Dec 202200:56:44

On episode 49 of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Carly Taylor about the positive results of applying Japanese psychology in our lives.

Carly Taylor is trained and experienced in Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Japanese psychology (Morita Therapy and Naikan); she is a University qualified nutritionist, personal trainer, and a health coach with over 10 years experience in the area of behaviour change. 

Her coaching covers all domains of life: mindset, nutrition, movement, and sleep; it is centred around living a life based on values and purpose as opposed to a life dictated by thoughts and emotions.


Naikan and its relation to the cultivation of ikigai with Dr. Clark Chilson17 Nov 202201:06:54

On episode 48 of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Dr. Clark Chilson about naikan and how it can help people develop their ikigai.

Do you contemplate the good things that happen in your life? 

Sometimes, we tend to focus on the negative aspects of our lives, and we forget to acknowledge the good things that occur around us.

In Japan, they have a self-reflective form of meditation called naikan; this method helps people realise what they have caused others (both good and bad). Can this practice of naikan help us feel more ikigai in our lives?


The Impact of Rolefulness on Ikigai with Professor Daiki Kato27 Oct 202201:05:09

Is rolefulness essential to ikigai?

Although we might not be aware of it, our roles may impact our well-being. We may have many roles in our lives, each with its own significance and impact – on people around us and on us as individuals. These roles give us a sense of fulfilment that leads to a feeling of ikigai.

On episode 47 of The Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Professor Daiki Kato to explore the importance of roles in perceiving ikigai in our lives.



Lessons from the Samurai with Steve Beauchamp19 Sep 202201:19:27

On episode 46 of The Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Steve Beauchamp about how people can integrate Bushido into their lives. 

When we hear the term Bushido, we imagine the Japanese samurai and think of it as something related to martial arts. But the principle of Bushido can actually be applied to some aspects of our lives and help us gain continuous improvement.



IKIGAI-KAN: Feel a life worth living30 Aug 202200:55:17

On episode 45 of The Ikigai Podcast, guest host Dr. Caitlin Kight speaks with Nick Kemp about his recently published book Ikigai-kan.

After years of living in Japan and having a meaningful connection with its people, Nick developed a fondness for Japan and its culture. Seeing Japanese concepts, particularly ikigai, being misinterpreted in the West as a Venn diagram makes him uncomfortable as he knows that the idea of ikigai is more than that. 

With that, he wants to give justice to this concept -- make people understand and appreciate its authentic beauty that is true to the Japanese culture. 


The social need of ikigai in a neo-liberal capitalist society23 Aug 202200:54:55

On episode 44 of The Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Ted Bonnah about the social need for ikigai in today’s society.

Japan is filled with crafts that play an important part in their culture. Hence, they have traditions that are passed down from generation to generation to keep them alive. 
However, with the responsibilities being instilled with the present generation, is it possible for them to find ikigai with the work that they do?



Kotodama: the purity of the Japanese language12 Aug 202200:57:06

On episode 43 of The Ikigai Podcast, Nick and Naoko Hosokawa explore the concept of kotodama and how the Japanese people apply this concept in modern times.

Japan is known for its rich culture. Amidst technological advancements, the Japanese people managed to maintain their customs and traditions.

One example of this is the idea of kotodama (word spirit); the concept of kotodama encourages people to use the "pure" Japanese language instead of foreign words. How is kotodama used today?


Integrating ikigai in the context of expat life22 Jul 202201:00:23

On episode 42 of The Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Chloe Le Gouche and Karly Christ, sharing their experiences living as an expat and finding ikigai. 

Have you lived outside your native country?

Living in an unfamiliar country may be exciting as this will lead you to new experiences and learnings. However, it also has some challenges, such as dealing with a new environment and adapting to a different lifestyle. With this, is it possible to find ikigai living as an expat?




The way of nagomi: Learning to live harmoniously11 Jul 202201:05:15

On episode 41 of The Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Ken Mogi about Ken’s recently released book, which focuses on the concept of nagomi, the Japanese way of living harmoniously.

Japan is filled with concepts that people can relate to; they have the themes of ikigai, kintsugi, ichigo ichie, and wabi-sabi, which people can apply to their daily lives, and that can contribute to their well-being. Interestingly, they have this notion that can be considered the core of all these beautiful concepts, the idea of nagomi (harmony). What is nagomi



Exploring Hikikomori: Social Withdrawal and the Need for Connection in Japan with Naomi Berman20 Jun 202400:49:09

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.


Information sharing in serious leisure as a source of Ikigai, Ibasho and Tanoshimi24 Jun 202201:10:20

On episode 40 of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Yazdan Mansourian about how one can feel ikigai through information sharing in serious leisure.

One of the essential aspects of ikigai is having meaningful relationships; through these relationships, we can feel a sense of belonging, which leads us to feel ikigai. 
There are ways in which we can obtain significant relationships, and one can be through information sharing in serious leisure activities. How can we build meaningful relationships through leisure?





Living meaningfully with illness18 May 202201:37:37

On episode 39 of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick and Trudy Boyle discuss how people can live meaningfully co-existing with illness.

How do we live our lives co-existing with illness?

Being diagnosed with a critical illness is something that all of us would dread; naturally, we fear the pain, uncertainty, and especially death. However, these are things that we cannot control. It is better to acknowledge these unpleasant feelings and learn to live with them.  How do we do that?




Understanding leisure’s impacts on sources of life worth living18 Mar 202200:58:34

On episode 38 of the Ikigai Podcast, Shinichi Nagata joins Nick to discuss the paper he co-authored on the topic of ikigai. 

Does leisure have an impact on our sources of ikigai? 

There have been studies on the impact of leisure on well-being, but not much about its influence on various sources of ikigai. Good thing some experts would like to explore more on this subject.


Exploring the Japanese concept of Omoiyari28 Feb 202201:08:41

In episode 37 of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick and Miku explore the Japanese concept of Omoiyari.

Japan is a group-oriented society and harmony is an important aspect for them; understanding the situation without words is something that is instilled in them at a very young age. They even have this term omoiyari, where people understand the feelings of others while not including the concept of self. But is it something only experienced in Japan?



© My Podcast Data