Why do so many Japanese celebrities, athletes, and business leaders open yakiniku (grilled meat) restaurants after retirement? In this episode, I explore what this curious trend reveals about Japanese society—particularly its lack of clear models for "life after success." This is not just a talk about food, but a reflection on how we approach endings, legacy, and personal reinvention. Are we celebrating the past or escaping the future? Join me as I unpack the deeper cultural meanings behind the sizzling tables of yakiniku shops.

Why do some people seem to live effortlessly as their true selves, while others struggle behind masks? In this episode, I explore the mystery of those who appear naturally authentic—whether it's luck, unconscious adaptation, or long-worn masks that became identity. We reflect on why such people can trigger envy or confusion in us, and how our own awareness of “acting” might be the key to balance. Join me in thinking deeply about authenticity, social roles, and how to protect our sense of self in a world full of expectations.

In this episode, I reflect on my past experience as a door-to-door salesperson and expose the darker side of individual sales culture in Japan. From aggressive incentive systems to underground economic cycles—money earned through high-pressure sales often fuels nightlife indulgence, gambling, and tax evasion. I question the values behind "making money" and challenge the glorification of success built on personal gain rather than social contribution. Is this really the way we should live and work? Let’s rethink what it truly means to earn, spend, and give value through our labor.

In this episode, I reflect on my time working in Laos and explore the global tendency to overvalue youth and physical beauty. While I appreciated the energy and confidence of the younger generation, I also sensed a lack of humility and respect for age and experience. Drawing from my personal experiences, I discuss how this mindset may reflect broader cultural shifts shaped by social media and changing values. Ultimately, I emphasize the importance of mutual respect across generations—and how humility, not just youth or appearance, defines a person’s deeper worth.

In this episode, I explore what it means to "wear a mask" as a professional in Japanese society. While some people appear to live authentically, most of us feel pressure to hide our true selves to survive in social and workplace environments. I reflect on my own experiences, especially during my time as a salesman, where I learned to consciously perform a role to protect my mental well-being. Yet, losing awareness of that performance can lead to burnout. How much of your life is lived in disguise—and where can you truly be yourself?

In this episode, I reflect on a popular trend on social media—comparing celebrities' youthful photos with their current appearance—and question what it says about our values. Are we turning aging into a spectacle? I argue that wrinkles and changes in our faces are not signs of "decline" but records of a life lived. Every line tells a story, every change holds meaning. Rather than chasing fleeting beauty, we should honor the faces that speak of resilience, experience, and emotion. Your current face carries a story only you can tell—and that story is worth preserving.

In this episode, I reflect on the word "salaryman" and why it feels limiting when used as a self-introduction in Japanese society. I explore how people often prioritize which organization they belong to over what they actually do or strive for. I also share a memorable story of a Japanese factory owner who once said, “I did salary for seven years,” instead of calling himself a “salaryman.” That subtle choice of words revealed his values and his distance from corporate identity. Through this, I consider the deeper meaning of identity and purpose in the working life.