Dear Valued Readers,

Prepare to embark on an exhilarating journey through the life and

achievements of Tim Neely, a visionary entrepreneur who has seamlessly

merged his expertise in motor vehicles and advertising to create a

boutique consulting firm dedicated to aiding foreign companies entering

Japan and Japanese firms expanding globally.

In our upcoming podcast episode, we dive deep into Tim's fascinating

background, where his passion for Japan and its language was ignited

during his adolescence through the disciplines of boxing and karate.

Witness how these early experiences laid the foundation for his

remarkable journey.

While many paths lay before him, including the allure of medical school,

Tim's unwavering dedication to mastering the Japanese language led him

down a different road. Throughout college, he prioritized language

studies, ultimately culminating in enrollment in a prestigious

graduate-level Japanese language program at Keio University.

Recently, Tim achieved a monumental milestone by obtaining the coveted

Japanese ohgata license—a testament to his perseverance and commitment.

Now, as he stands at the precipice of a new chapter, Tim contemplates

his next adventure, contemplating the selection of a bike for his

upcoming journeys.

Join us as we uncover the secrets to Tim Neely's success, learning from

his experiences and gaining invaluable insights into navigating the

complexities of the Japanese business landscape. Don't miss out on this

opportunity to be inspired and empowered by Tim's incredible story!

Dear Book Lovers,

Prepare to be inspired by the remarkable journey of Sue Conolly, the

esteemed library manager at TAC, as she shares her passion for

librarianship and the transformative power of literature.

Join us for an engaging episode in which Sue recounts her inspiring path

to librarianship, a journey fueled by unwavering support from her

family, mentors, and friends. With master's degrees in TESOL and teacher

librarianship, Sue's six years in Illinois proved pivotal, shaping her

into the dedicated library manager she is today.

During her time in Illinois, Sue had the privilege of engaging with the

Center for Teaching Through Children’s Books, where she formed a close

bond with the founder. This connection led to extraordinary

opportunities, including involvement with the prestigious Caldecott

Award committee and the esteemed American Library Association (ALA).

Sue's experiences with these esteemed organizations enriched her

understanding of children's literature and solidified her commitment to

promoting literacy and learning.

As a testament to her unwavering dedication to literature and education,

Sue is eagerly preparing to host her dear friend and renowned author,

Marissa Moss, for a graphic novel workshop in May. This exciting event

promises to benefit the children at TAC, providing them with valuable

insights into the world of graphic novels and fostering a love for

reading and creativity.

Don't miss out on this captivating episode as we delve into Sue

Conolly's inspiring journey and celebrate the profound impact of

literature and education in shaping young minds and enriching lives.

Dear Sustainability Enthusiasts,

Get ready to embark on an enlightening journey with Charles Allard Jr., a visionary entrepreneur and the founder of Delvify. Together, we will explore the intersection of sustainability and technology in the apparel industry.

Join us for a captivating episode where Charles shares his inspiring vision for revolutionizing the apparel industry through innovative AI solutions, placing sustainability at the forefront of his mission. Through Delvify's groundbreaking AI technologies, Charles aims to streamline workflow and drive positive change by digitizing processes and minimizing environmental impact.

In this thought-provoking conversation, Charles reflects on his nomadic upbringing across the United States and Asia, which endowed him with unique insights into global dynamics and cultural nuances. His formative years in Asia profoundly shaped his worldview, instilling in him a deep appreciation for diversity and a keen understanding of the fault lines that exist between nations.

As he pursued his studies at Tulane University in Louisiana, Charles excelled in Japanese studies, inspired by the teachings of scholar Raymond Esthus. Drawing from his robust background in finance, Charles advocates for the application of statistics as a powerful tool for understanding the ultimate reality and driving meaningful change.

Through a holistic approach that bridges his diverse experiences and expertise, Charles is leading the charge toward innovation and sustainability in the apparel sector. His unwavering commitment to sustainability, coupled with his innovative AI solutions, promises to reshape the future of the industry and pave the way for a more environmentally conscious and socially responsible world.

Don't miss out on this insightful episode as we explore Charles Allard Jr.'s inspiring journey and gain valuable insights into the transformative potential of technology and sustainability in the apparel industry.

Exciting Podcast Episode Alert: Unveiling the Journey of Resilience with Erica Ituralde!

Dear Podcast Enthusiasts,

Prepare to embark on an inspiring voyage as we delve into the life and experiences of Erica Ituralde, a Tokyo transplant whose story resonates deeply with those navigating life's twists and turns.

In our upcoming podcast episode, we have the privilege of hearing Erica's compelling narrative of relocation to Tokyo six years ago, driven by her desire for quality time with her mother, who had made Japan her home since 1999. As an integral part of the TAC community for five years, Erica offers invaluable insights into the intricacies of life in Japan and the profound impact of dealing with culture shock head-on.

But Erica's story goes beyond the surface – she bravely opens up about her personal journey of healing from childhood trauma through therapy. In a candid discussion, she emphasizes the paramount importance of mental health and shares powerful insights into the transformative power of controlling one's thoughts to navigate life's myriad challenges.

Through Erica's experiences, we witness the epitome of resilience and the profound impact of prioritizing emotional well-being amidst the backdrop of cultural adjustments. Her story is not just about overcoming obstacles; it's about embracing vulnerability and emerging stronger on the other side.

Join us as we uncover Erica's journey of resilience, empowerment, and self-discovery. Tune in to our podcast episode and be prepared to be moved, inspired, and empowered!

Dear Podcast Enthusiasts,

Prepare to embark on a fascinating journey as we uncover Steffen Eckart's inspiring story—a testament to the enduring power of curiosity, exploration, and the pursuit of diverse experiences.

Join us for an enriching episode where Steffen shares his captivating journey, ignited by a childhood hobby that would shape his life's trajectory—stamp collecting. From the early days of flipping through stamp albums to his teenage travels across Scandinavia, Steffen's curiosity about diverse cultures and people was sparked, setting the stage for a lifetime of exploration.

In this compelling episode, Steffen delves into his formative years, recounting how his travels as a teenager inspired his pursuit of languages, leading him to master German and French. His passion for language and culture would later pave the way for transformative experiences in Japan, where he immersed himself in the local community while teaching English at prestigious institutions like NOVA and ALC Education.

Venturing into the corporate realm, Steffen's journey took him to esteemed organizations such as Goldman Sachs and Takeda Pharmaceuticals, where he gained invaluable professional experience while continuing to nurture his passion for exploration and cultural exchange.

Now, as a devoted husband and father to a 17-year-old son, Steffen continues to embrace new experiences and opportunities shaped by his lifelong passion for exploration and curiosity about the world around him.

Join us as we delve into the rich tapestry of Steffen Eckart's life, brimming with moments of discovery, growth, and profound insight. His story serves as a testament to the transformative power of curiosity and the boundless possibilities that await those who dare to explore.

Don't miss out on this captivating episode as we unveil Steffen Eckart's inspiring journey and gain invaluable insights into the enduring pursuit of exploration and discovery.

Prepare to embark on a thought-provoking journey as we delve into Nina Sekiguchi's captivating story—a testament to resilience, determination, and the complexities of identity.

Join us for an enlightening episode in which Nina shares her deeply personal reflections on navigating the intricacies of identity as a mixed-race individual raised in the US. Her journey is one of profound self-discovery and resilience, enriched by her unique experiences and perspectives.

From her early days grappling with the challenge of not speaking Japanese to embracing her Black American heritage, Nina's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the pursuit of self-acceptance. After embarking on a transformative journey in the US Air Force and obtaining degrees in communications and a master’s degree as a single parent, Nina's path led her to Japan—a decision that would shape her life in unexpected ways.

Supported by the unwavering love of family and friends, Nina made the courageous decision to pause her thriving IT career to embark on a journey of cultural immersion and language acquisition. Her six-year odyssey in Japan, culminating in a joyous marriage, is a testament to her resilience and unwavering determination to embrace life's challenges head-on.

In this insightful episode, Nina draws poignant parallels between her own journey and the experience of parenting four mixed-race sons, offering invaluable insights into the complexities of identity and upbringing in diverse environments. Her story resonates deeply, shedding light on the universal quest for belonging and self-understanding.

Join us as we explore Nina Sekiguchi's rich tapestry of life, brimming with moments of triumph, introspection, and profound wisdom. Her story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for all those navigating the complexities of identity and diversity.

Don't miss out on this enlightening episode as we uncover the inspiring journey of Nina Sekiguchi and gain invaluable insights into the power of resilience and self-discovery.

Dear Podcast Enthusiasts,

Prepare to be inspired as we unravel Beau Becker's remarkable journey—a true embodiment of determination and resilience! Join us for an extraordinary episode in which Beau shares his captivating story of ambition, cultural exploration, and entrepreneurial triumph.

Beau demonstrated an unwavering drive to pursue his goals from a young age. Armed with mechanical engineering and business degrees from Northwestern University, he embarked on a path fueled by ambition and curiosity. His journey took him across borders and cultures as he immersed himself in the rich tapestry of China and Japan.

At the age of 22, Beau set three life-defining goals, each meticulously pursued with relentless dedication. Fluent in Chinese and Japanese, he navigated the intricacies of overseas operations in Shanghai and Osaka, honing his leadership and entrepreneurial acumen along the way.

The culmination of Beau's journey led to the establishment of Reiwa Pharmaceuticals in Japan, where his passion for innovation shines through his revolutionary anti-flush product, Akan. Through Akan, Beau strives to mitigate the adverse effects of alcohol, showcasing his commitment to enhancing the well-being of individuals.

Join us as we delve into Beau's inspiring narrative, brimming with moments of triumph, resilience, and unwavering determination. His story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the limitless potential of the human spirit.

Don't miss out on this enlightening episode as we uncover Beau Becker's extraordinary journey and gain invaluable insights into the world of entrepreneurship and innovation!

Dear Tech Enthusiasts,

Get ready for an enlightening episode as we delve into the dynamic world of Silicon Valley with none other than Robert Sharp! With over 30 years of expertise in the tech sector, Robert is on a mission to assist startup companies in San Francisco while also nurturing the growth of Japanese startups on the global stage.

As an alumnus of prestigious international schools such as NIS and ASIJ, Robert brings a unique perspective to the table. He combines his Silicon Valley background with his deep-rooted connections to Japan. His dedication to supporting startups is evident as he seeks the perfect match to lend his expertise and guidance.

Robert's hands-on approach sets him apart. He focuses on working closely with one company at a time, ensuring personalized attention and tailored strategies for success. In this episode, he shares valuable insights into the startup ecosystem, discussing key trends, challenges, and opportunities in the ever-evolving tech landscape.

But that's not all! Join us as we trip down memory lane and explore the vibrant Tokyo expat community of the 1970s and 1980s. From international schools to iconic establishments like the Tokyo American Club, Robert provides fascinating anecdotes and reflections on the cultural tapestry of that era.

Don't miss this opportunity to gain insider knowledge and firsthand experiences from Silicon Valley expert Robert Sharp!