Finding Japan https://www.findingjapan.com A audio and video podcast blog about finding our own Japan during our 20s, 30s, and now 40s. Sun, 09 Jan 2022 06:59:11 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.9.9 A audio and video podcast blog about finding my own Japan as a twenty-something international business and IT professional. Christopher S. no episodic christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.) Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 2.5 A audio and video podcast blog about finding my own Japan as a twenty-something international business and IT professional. Finding Japan https://www.findingjapan.com/images/fjlogo1400px.jpg https://www.findingjapan.com japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photographychristopher@findingjapan.comChristopher S. Black Passenger Crossing the Bridge https://www.findingjapan.com/2021/01/585/ Fri, 22 Jan 2021 05:42:59 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/?p=585 https://www.findingjapan.com/2021/01/585/#respond https://www.findingjapan.com/2021/01/585/feed/ 0 Please excuse the episode’s long intro; I’ve been up to things and I talk about them. This one gets heated in the best possible way as Stefhen and I discuss Black/African identity vis a vis Japan and what it means to live a biracial/multicultural life and so on. Stefhen’s done some cool things, so check … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2021/01/585/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Black Passenger Crossing the Bridge"</span></a></p> Please excuse the episode’s long intro; I’ve been up to things and I talk about them.
This one gets heated in the best possible way as Stefhen and I discuss Black/African identity vis a vis Japan and what it means to live a biracial/multicultural life and so on.
Stefhen’s done some cool things, so check out these links to his book and one-man play:

Black Passenger Yellow Cabs

Doodu Boy

]]> Please excuse the episode’s long intro; I’ve been up to things and I talk about them. This one gets heated in the best possible way as Stefhen and I discuss Black/African identity vis a vis Japan and what it means to live a biracial/multicultural life ... This one gets heated in the best possible way as Stefhen and I discuss Black/African identity vis a vis Japan and what it means to live a biracial/multicultural life and so on.
Stefhen’s done some cool things, so check out these links to his book and one-man play:
Black Passenger Yellow Cabs
Doodu Boy
]]> Christopher S. clean 1:41:26 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 88 – Omoide-banashi (Reminiscing) with the Boys https://www.findingjapan.com/2020/07/582/ Wed, 29 Jul 2020 04:37:09 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/?p=582 https://www.findingjapan.com/2020/07/582/#respond https://www.findingjapan.com/2020/07/582/feed/ 0 Another day, another ep! This one is some rough and easy (just how I like it?) Japan talk with good friends Simon and Gus from San Francisco about our numerous adventures in Japan. Drinking competitions, jail, girls, more jail… enjoy! Please forgive my vocals. Due to technical difficulties, Simon and Gus sound fantabulous but my … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2020/07/582/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 88 – Omoide-banashi (Reminiscing) with the Boys"</span></a></p> Another day, another ep! This one is some rough and easy (just how I like it?) Japan talk with good friends Simon and Gus from

San Francisco about our numerous adventures in Japan. Drinking competitions, jail, girls, more jail… enjoy!

Please forgive my vocals. Due to technical difficulties, Simon and Gus sound fantabulous but my voice is a recording straight to my iPhone mic.

]]> Another day, another ep! This one is some rough and easy (just how I like it?) Japan talk with good friends Simon and Gus from San Francisco about our numerous adventures in Japan. Drinking competitions, jail, girls, more jail… enjoy! San Francisco about our numerous adventures in Japan. Drinking competitions, jail, girls, more jail… enjoy!
Please forgive my vocals. Due to technical difficulties, Simon and Gus sound fantabulous but my voice is a recording straight to my iPhone mic.
]]> Christopher S. clean 1:21:32 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 87 – Startin’ Up, Movin’ Up with Tim Andersen https://www.findingjapan.com/2020/07/577/ Thu, 16 Jul 2020 00:32:36 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/?p=577 https://www.findingjapan.com/2020/07/577/#respond https://www.findingjapan.com/2020/07/577/feed/ 0 Tim Andersen is back to talk more startup in Japan. We get the update on what happened to his startup project Musby. Spoiler, it didn’t go as planned. However, it’s all good. Tim has no quit and continues to apply lessons learned as a project manager at Edocode. If you didn’t get a chance to … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2020/07/577/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 87 – Startin’ Up, Movin’ Up with Tim Andersen"</span></a></p> Tim Andersen is back to talk more startup in Japan. We get the update on what happened to his startup project Musby. Spoiler, it didn’t go as planned. However, it’s all good. Tim has no quit and continues to apply lessons learned as a project manager at Edocode.

If you didn’t get a chance to catch the original Musby talk, here it is.

]]> Tim Andersen is back to talk more startup in Japan. We get the update on what happened to his startup project Musby. Spoiler, it didn’t go as planned. However, it’s all good. Tim has no quit and continues to apply lessons learned as a project manager a... If you didn’t get a chance to catch the original Musby talk, here it is.
]]> Christopher S. clean 48:51 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 86 – Terri Goes Akogare on Wakayama Tomisaburo https://www.findingjapan.com/2020/07/573/ Thu, 09 Jul 2020 02:32:15 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/?p=573 https://www.findingjapan.com/2020/07/573/#respond https://www.findingjapan.com/2020/07/573/feed/ 0 Excited to have my akogare (we talk about this word) Terri MacMillian on the show. We talk about her music management experience (Pizzicato Five?!), life in Japan in general, her favorite actor (super cool), and of course we get a touch ornery about Black Lives Matter. Excited to have my akogare (we talk about this word) Terri MacMillian on the show.

We talk about her music management experience (Pizzicato Five?!), life in Japan in general, her favorite actor (super cool), and of course we get a touch ornery about Black Lives Matter.

]]> Excited to have my akogare (we talk about this word) Terri MacMillian on the show. We talk about her music management experience (Pizzicato Five?!), life in Japan in general, her favorite actor (super cool), We talk about her music management experience (Pizzicato Five?!), life in Japan in general, her favorite actor (super cool), and of course we get a touch ornery about Black Lives Matter.
]]> Christopher S. clean 1:32:15 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography FJ Quickie Quickie Eew Wee – BLM in Nihongo https://www.findingjapan.com/2020/06/557/ Sat, 13 Jun 2020 03:43:35 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/?p=557 https://www.findingjapan.com/2020/06/557/#respond https://www.findingjapan.com/2020/06/557/feed/ 0 A quick primer on ways to say Black Lives Matter in Japanese. [Kokujin no inochi wa taisetu] – Black Lives Matter (are important with no implied too) [Kokujin no inochi koso taisetu] – It is Black Lives that Matter, Black Lives Matter! (Indeed!), more so than others [Kokujin no inochi mo taisetu] – Black Lives … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2020/06/557/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "FJ Quickie Quickie Eew Wee – BLM in Nihongo"</span></a></p> A quick primer on ways to say Black Lives Matter in Japanese.

[Kokujin no inochi wa taisetu] – Black Lives Matter (are important with no implied too)
[Kokujin no inochi koso taisetu] – It is Black Lives that Matter, Black Lives Matter! (Indeed!), more so than others
[Kokujin no inochi mo taisetu] – Black Lives Matter (too), closest to English in implication, and nuance

Note: I am an advanced speaker, but Japanese is not my first language. Constructive feedback welcome.

]]> A quick primer on ways to say Black Lives Matter in Japanese. [Kokujin no inochi wa taisetu] – Black Lives Matter (are important with no implied too) [Kokujin no inochi koso taisetu] – It is Black Lives that Matter, Black Lives Matter! (Indeed!), [Kokujin no inochi wa taisetu] – Black Lives Matter (are important with no implied too)
[Kokujin no inochi koso taisetu] – It is Black Lives that Matter, Black Lives Matter! (Indeed!), more so than others
[Kokujin no inochi mo taisetu] – Black Lives Matter (too), closest to English in implication, and nuance
Note: I am an advanced speaker, but Japanese is not my first language. Constructive feedback welcome.
]]> Christopher S. clean 6:58 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 85 – For Relaxing Times, Don’t Make It Corona Times https://www.findingjapan.com/2020/04/549/ Sun, 12 Apr 2020 01:33:32 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/?p=549 https://www.findingjapan.com/2020/04/549/#respond https://www.findingjapan.com/2020/04/549/feed/ 0 Thank you to those of you who have been listening to the shorter quickiesodes. More are coming but for now, here’s a full-length episode! Host emeritus Chris is back with me (socially distantly) to discuss these unusual times with comparisons between the US and Japan. And everyone’s favorite bovine friend gets a mention. Thank you to those of you who have been listening to the shorter quickiesodes. More are coming but for now, here’s a full-length episode!

Host emeritus Chris is back with me (socially distantly) to discuss these unusual times with comparisons between the US and Japan.

And everyone’s favorite bovine friend gets a mention.

]]> Thank you to those of you who have been listening to the shorter quickiesodes. More are coming but for now, here’s a full-length episode! Host emeritus Chris is back with me (socially distantly) to discuss these unusual times with comparisons between t... Host emeritus Chris is back with me (socially distantly) to discuss these unusual times with comparisons between the US and Japan.
And everyone’s favorite bovine friend gets a mention.
]]> Christopher S. clean 1:04:39 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography FJ Quickie Quickie Eew Wee – Natto https://www.findingjapan.com/2020/04/541/ Thu, 09 Apr 2020 01:53:12 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/?p=541 https://www.findingjapan.com/2020/04/541/#respond https://www.findingjapan.com/2020/04/541/feed/ 0 Eew wee, indeed. Today’s episode is about natto or fermented soybeans! Get some more smelly, slimy, and stringy info here! Eew wee, indeed. Today’s episode is about natto or fermented soybeans!

Get some more smelly, slimy, and stringy info here!

]]> Eew wee, indeed. Today’s episode is about natto or fermented soybeans! Get some more smelly, slimy, and stringy info here! Get some more smelly, slimy, and stringy info here!
]]> Christopher S. clean 14:56 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography FJ Quickie Quickie Eew Wee – Almost Transparent Blue Bedtime Eyes https://www.findingjapan.com/2020/04/531/ Wed, 08 Apr 2020 03:29:59 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/?p=531 https://www.findingjapan.com/2020/04/531/#respond https://www.findingjapan.com/2020/04/531/feed/ 0 This time its the racial sexually amped duo of Bedtime Eyes and Almost Transparent Blue. This time its the racial sexually amped duo of Bedtime Eyes and Almost Transparent Blue.

]]> This time its the racial sexually amped duo of Bedtime Eyes and Almost Transparent Blue. ]]> Christopher S. clean 9:41 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography FJ Quickie Quickie Eew Wee – The Woman in the Dunes https://www.findingjapan.com/2020/04/528/ Wed, 08 Apr 2020 03:27:36 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/?p=528 https://www.findingjapan.com/2020/04/528/#respond https://www.findingjapan.com/2020/04/528/feed/ 0 Another quick episode for these Corona times… the 1962 classic novel The Woman in the Dunes . Another quick episode for these Corona times… the 1962 classic novel The Woman in the Dunes

.

]]> Another quick episode for these Corona times… the 1962 classic novel The Woman in the Dunes . .
]]> Christopher S. clean 11:33 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography FJ Quickie Quickie Eew Wee – The Naked Island https://www.findingjapan.com/2020/04/525/ Wed, 08 Apr 2020 03:24:30 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/?p=525 https://www.findingjapan.com/2020/04/525/#respond https://www.findingjapan.com/2020/04/525/feed/ 0 A quick episode for these Corona times… the 1960 classic film The Naked Island. A quick episode for these Corona times… the 1960 classic film The Naked Island.

]]> A quick episode for these Corona times… the 1960 classic film The Naked Island. ]]> Christopher S. clean 8:21 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 84 – Konechikatto Chatto https://www.findingjapan.com/2019/02/514/ Tue, 19 Feb 2019 19:57:23 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/?p=514 Join Terrance and Christopher for a conversational reconnect as Terrance braves the wintry tundra of Connecticut for a long overdue in-person recording from our two hosts. Get some insight on what residency in Tokyo feels like after many years and the challenges that returning to the United States presents after many years in Asia. Special … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2019/02/514/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 84 – Konechikatto Chatto"</span></a></p> Join Terrance and Christopher for a conversational reconnect as Terrance braves the wintry tundra of Connecticut for a long overdue in-person recording from our two hosts. Get some insight on what residency in Tokyo feels like after many years and the ... Join Terrance and Christopher for a conversational reconnect as Terrance braves the wintry tundra of Connecticut for a long overdue in-person recording from our two hosts. Get some insight on what residency in Tokyo feels like after many years and the challenges that returning to the United States presents after many years in Asia.
Special bonus: If you listen long enough, you may even get to hear the resurrected segments from podcasts of long ago and be treating to a special guest appearance.
So get ready for live and uncut, long and unfiltered discussion. Enjoy!
]]> Christopher S. clean 1:04:55 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 83 – Snow Country https://www.findingjapan.com/2018/09/493/ Wed, 05 Sep 2018 19:22:45 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/?p=493 It’s been a long time in the making, but we’re finally reviewing one of Japan’s most famous novels: Kawabata Yasunari’s, “Snow Country”. As one of Terrance’s absolute favorite books and only recently read by Christopher, we discuss the finer points of the novel, its context, and what we make of the imagery and plot. It’s been a long time in the making, but we’re finally reviewing one of Japan’s most famous novels: Kawabata Yasunari’s, “Snow Country”. As one of Terrance’s absolute favorite books and only recently read by Christopher, ]]> Christopher S. clean 1:12:29 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 82 – Takao-san https://www.findingjapan.com/2018/06/462/ Sun, 03 Jun 2018 15:36:35 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/?p=462 Join Terrance and Christopher with dualing audio as they journey to the summit of Mount Takao, a small mountain just west of Tokyo. This sound-seeing (sound scene) tour includes some lively discussion on Japanese films, accents, future nature sabbaticals, and disaster scenarios. What more could you ask for? Join Terrance and Christopher with dualing audio as they journey to the summit of Mount Takao, a small mountain just west of Tokyo. This sound-seeing (sound scene) tour includes some lively discussion on Japanese films, accents, This sound-seeing (sound scene) tour includes some lively discussion on Japanese films, accents, future nature sabbaticals, and disaster scenarios. What more could you ask for?
]]> Christopher S. clean 39:34 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 81 – Tim Puts the Pieces Together with Musby https://www.findingjapan.com/2017/06/428/ Sun, 11 Jun 2017 01:58:38 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/?p=428 On this episode Terrance sits down with a Kobe friend, Tim Andersen to talk about his startup Musby. They catch up a little and go over their common background of being halfies growing up in Japan. They talk Musby’s goal of bringing language learning together with other interests – it really is a great idea … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2017/06/428/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 81 – Tim Puts the Pieces Together with Musby"</span></a></p> On this episode Terrance sits down with a Kobe friend, Tim Andersen to talk about his startup Musby. They catch up a little and go over their common background of being halfies growing up in Japan. They talk Musby’s goal of bringing language learning t... Musby
]]> Christopher S. clean christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 80 – Todd Always Stands His Ground https://www.findingjapan.com/2017/03/423/ Sun, 12 Mar 2017 11:49:12 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/?p=423 It’s Finding Japan’s 80th show! Terrance is joined in celebration with his friend and veteran Japan raconteur Todd Rucynski. Todd’s been in Japan for a long time has done everything from the good ol’ gaijin mainstay of teaching English to owning video stores (wuh?) to appearing on Japanese TV. They sat down at his secret … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2017/03/423/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 80 – Todd Always Stands His Ground"</span></a></p> It’s Finding Japan’s 80th show! Terrance is joined in celebration with his friend and veteran Japan raconteur Todd Rucynski. Todd’s been in Japan for a long time has done everything from the good ol’ gaijin mainstay of teaching English to owning video ... ]]> Christopher S. clean 1:45:00 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 79 – Three Moves Ahead with Shaka Haynes https://www.findingjapan.com/2016/10/417/ Sun, 02 Oct 2016 10:55:58 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/?p=417 It’s been awhile but we’re excited about this episode. Terrance’s guest is the always hungry, always charismatic Shaka Haynes. Shaka works with Terrance at the world famous fruit shop. More importantly, he’s making moves in the world of entertainment bringing his experience producing and promoting artists to the Japan scene. They talk about how he … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2016/10/417/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 79 – Three Moves Ahead with Shaka Haynes"</span></a></p> It’s been awhile but we’re excited about this episode. Terrance’s guest is the always hungry, always charismatic Shaka Haynes. Shaka works with Terrance at the world famous fruit shop. More importantly, he’s making moves in the world of entertainment b... ]]> Christopher S. clean christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 78 – I Ain’t Ever Been To Jail https://www.findingjapan.com/2016/06/413/ Fri, 10 Jun 2016 00:27:30 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/?p=413 This is a very personal and special episode in which Terrance talks about his experiences in the Japanese slammer. Many of you may know what happened but just to make things clear, the matter is settled, he’s ok, he doesn’t have a record, and technically it was detention, not imprisonment. Chris Rock has a joke … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2016/06/413/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 78 – I Ain’t Ever Been To Jail"</span></a></p> This is a very personal and special episode in which Terrance talks about his experiences in the Japanese slammer. Many of you may know what happened but just to make things clear, the matter is settled, he’s ok, he doesn’t have a record, Chris Rock has a joke about low expectation boasting. “I ain’t ever been to jail.” “You ain’t supposed to go to jail, you low expectation having…” Sadly, he can no longer laugh at this joke. He’s been to jail and here is the story.
]]> Christopher S. clean christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 77 – The Finding Continues https://www.findingjapan.com/2016/06/410/ Thu, 09 Jun 2016 23:27:08 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/?p=410 It’s been awhile but the Godfather of Finding Japan, Chris, is back in the land! Chris and Terrance have teamed up to continue bringing our discoveries and observations of this sometimes mystifying, almost always interesting country. In this episode we get you caught up with what’s been going on with our lives, as well as … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2016/06/410/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 77 – The Finding Continues"</span></a></p> It’s been awhile but the Godfather of Finding Japan, Chris, is back in the land! Chris and Terrance have teamed up to continue bringing our discoveries and observations of this sometimes mystifying, almost always interesting country. ]]> Christopher S. clean christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 76 – Artistic Mr. Mertens and His Ladies https://www.findingjapan.com/2014/03/402/ Mon, 10 Mar 2014 06:42:07 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/?p=402 The co-host on today’s show is the Artistic Mr. Mertens. Craig and Terrance talk about the Oscars, do a bit of a detour into the LGBT situation in Japan and in general, and most importantly pimp his current art exhibition Ladies First. If you’re in the Osaka area check out Ladies First at Cafe Absinthe: … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2014/03/402/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 76 – Artistic Mr. Mertens and His Ladies"</span></a></p> The co-host on today’s show is the Artistic Mr. Mertens. Craig and Terrance talk about the Oscars, do a bit of a detour into the LGBT situation in Japan and in general, and most importantly pimp his current art exhibition Ladies First. If you’re in the Osaka area check out Ladies First at Cafe Absinthe:
http://www.absinthe-jp.com/cafe-absinthe/news/578
And pick up Craig’s artistic wares at Society6:
http://society6.com/CraigMertens/Ladies-First-Exhibition-Poster_Print#1=45
P.S. Sorry if the sound levels are a bit high and we hope
we don’t blowout your eardrums – every episode is a learning experience f^_^;
]]> Christopher S. clean christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 75 – DJ Brian J Bringin’ It Chilled Out at Freestyle https://www.findingjapan.com/2014/03/397/ Tue, 04 Mar 2014 12:30:38 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/?p=397 Another day, another episode. This time it’s a laid back interview over wine and cheese with Brian J. at Freestyle in Shibuya. Brian’s had a few adventures around the world and we talk about how came he from Italy to the US and then to Japan and how music shaped his journey. Another day, another episode. This time it’s a laid back interview over wine and cheese with Brian J. at Freestyle in Shibuya. Brian’s had a few adventures around the world and we talk about how came he from Italy to the US and then to Japan and how mu... ]]> Christopher S. clean christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 74 – Caped Crime Preventer Tom Schmid https://www.findingjapan.com/2014/02/389/ Mon, 24 Feb 2014 05:56:23 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/?p=389 Finally, a long-awaited (probably only by the host himself) interview episode. My inaugural interview guest is Tom Schmid, licensed attorney and linguistic advisor at the United Nations Asia and Far East Institute for the Prevention of Crime and the Treatment of Offenders (UNAFEI). Whoof… that’s a mouthful. Still doesn’t change the fact that Tom is … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2014/02/389/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 74 – Caped Crime Preventer Tom Schmid"</span></a></p> Finally, a long-awaited (probably only by the host himself) interview episode. My inaugural interview guest is Tom Schmid, licensed attorney and linguistic advisor at the United Nations Asia and Far East Institute for the Prevention of Crime and the Tr... ]]> Christopher S. clean christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 73 – Ha! F U Hafu https://www.findingjapan.com/2013/12/384/ Mon, 09 Dec 2013 14:56:45 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/?p=384 Here we go! Finally another episode of the most inconsistent relaunch in podcast history. But it’s all good as I talk about the documentary Hafu and read a poem to honor Mandela’s passing without properly explaining why I’m reading said poem. It was the poem that gave him strength while he was imprisoned. Takes two … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2013/12/384/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 73 – Ha! F U Hafu"</span></a></p> Here we go! Finally another episode of the most inconsistent relaunch in podcast history. But it’s all good as I talk about the documentary Hafu and read a poem to honor Mandela’s passing without properly explaining why I’m reading said poem. It’s all good.
]]> Christopher S. clean christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 72 – Don’t Call It a Kaerizaki https://www.findingjapan.com/2013/09/376/ Mon, 30 Sep 2013 10:07:06 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/?p=376 Yes, a new episode of Finding Japan is finally here. It’s a bit rough around the edges and I’m still developing where I want to take the show so bear with me. On this ep I have my good friend David on as co-host and we discuss a variety of things about Japan, mostly in … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2013/09/376/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 72 – Don’t Call It a Kaerizaki"</span></a></p> Yes, a new episode of Finding Japan is finally here. It’s a bit rough around the edges and I’m still developing where I want to take the show so bear with me. On this ep I have my good friend David on as co-host and we discuss a variety of things about... ]]> Christopher S. clean christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 71 – Prelude: Passing of the T-Bone https://www.findingjapan.com/2013/07/367/ Sun, 21 Jul 2013 02:07:37 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/?p=367 Hello, Finding Japan listeners! The show will go on. Host emeritus Christopher has passed the show on to Terrance and everyone’s favorite bovine personality T-Bone Taro from the former Kobe Beef Show (if you have no idea who T-Bone is just nod for now). In this episode I introduce myself a little, talk about future … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2013/07/367/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 71 – Prelude: Passing of the T-Bone"</span></a></p> Hello, Finding Japan listeners! The show will go on. Host emeritus Christopher has passed the show on to Terrance and everyone’s favorite bovine personality T-Bone Taro from the former Kobe Beef Show (if you have no idea who T-Bone is just nod for now)... In this episode I introduce myself a little, talk about future plans for the show, and Christopher and I do some catching up and chit chat about things in general, Japan, and FJ. Enjoy!
]]> Christopher S. clean christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 70 – Fred and Terrance Visit Tokyo https://www.findingjapan.com/2010/09/360/ Mon, 20 Sep 2010 05:15:45 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2010/09/20/360/ Before Fred and Terrance left Tokyo, we managed a round-table wrap-up of the weekend’s activities. Though the weekend did not go as planned, we still had a great time and summed up the weekend’s adventures along with Fred’s thoughts on Japan after returning after 5 years for a visit. Listen below! Before Fred and Terrance left Tokyo, we managed a round-table wrap-up of the weekend’s activities. Though the weekend did not go as planned, we still had a great time and summed up the weekend’s adventures along with Fred’s thoughts on Japan after retu... Listen below!
]]> Christopher S. clean 39:38 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 69 – Fuji Yoshida Fire Festival https://www.findingjapan.com/2010/09/359/ Sun, 12 Sep 2010 11:07:18 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2010/09/12/359/ Recently, Linda, Fred, Terrance and I made the trek up to the base of Mount Fuji to see the Fuji Yoshida Fire Festival. This festival marks the closing of the hiking trails for Fuji-san. The carrying of the mikoshi through town along with the noise is said to try to appease the goddess of Mt. … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2010/09/359/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 69 – Fuji Yoshida Fire Festival"</span></a></p> Recently, Linda, Fred, Terrance and I made the trek up to the base of Mount Fuji to see the Fuji Yoshida Fire Festival. This festival marks the closing of the hiking trails for Fuji-san. The carrying of the mikoshi through town along with the noise is ... Recently, Linda, Fred, Terrance and I made the trek up to the base of Mount Fuji to see the Fuji Yoshida Fire Festival. This festival marks the closing of the hiking trails for Fuji-san. The carrying of the mikoshi through town along with the noise is said to try to appease the goddess of Mt. Fuji so that the mountain will not erupt. Fires are lit from the center of the city all the way to Sengen-Jinja in order to impress the goddess.
You can read more about the Fuji Yoshida Fire Festival by reading on other sites. You can see the festival by watching this video. Enjoy!
]]> Christopher S. clean 5:16 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 68 – The Pachinko Experience https://www.findingjapan.com/2010/09/357/ Mon, 06 Sep 2010 13:40:34 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2010/09/06/357/ Fred joins in this episode to discuss the ever classic Japan pachinko parlor experience. After coming home from a round of yakitori, we enjoy a few beers on the way back to my apartment to chat about our experience. Listen to us get distracted by the ultrasonic teenage repellers down in Tsukiji. Fred joins in this episode to discuss the ever classic Japan pachinko parlor experience. After coming home from a round of yakitori, we enjoy a few beers on the way back to my apartment to chat about our experience. After coming home from a round of yakitori, we enjoy a few beers on the way back to my apartment to chat about our experience. Listen to us get distracted by the ultrasonic teenage repellers down in Tsukiji.
]]> Christopher S. clean 24:41 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 67 – Awesome Beer Pour https://www.findingjapan.com/2010/08/354/ Mon, 23 Aug 2010 14:03:25 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2010/08/23/354/ So I sat down this evening to get my Logic setup all ready for another podcast, and I just couldn’t sit down and belt out some audio tonight. So instead, we do a video. A co-worker join myself and Linda for dinner the other night at a fabulous german beer hall restaurant in Hamamatsu-chou on … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2010/08/354/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 67 – Awesome Beer Pour"</span></a></p> So I sat down this evening to get my Logic setup all ready for another podcast, and I just couldn’t sit down and belt out some audio tonight. So instead, we do a video. A co-worker join myself and Linda for dinner the other night at a fabulous german b... So I sat down this evening to get my Logic setup all ready for another podcast, and I just couldn’t sit down and belt out some audio tonight. So instead, we do a video.
A co-worker join myself and Linda for dinner the other night at a fabulous german beer hall restaurant in Hamamatsu-chou on Friday night. The beer was great, and the sausage was fantastic. And the beer was poured very stylistically. Enjoy!
]]> Christopher S. clean 1:34 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 66 – Video Coffee Machine https://www.findingjapan.com/2010/06/352/ Sun, 13 Jun 2010 05:59:20 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2010/06/13/352/ You can be in Japan for many years and still see something new every day. This was the case when Linda and I recently noticed a new type of coffee machine at our local hospital here. Apparently this coffee machine shows a multi-angle live video feed of how your coffee is being prepared inside the … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2010/06/352/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 66 – Video Coffee Machine"</span></a></p> You can be in Japan for many years and still see something new every day. This was the case when Linda and I recently noticed a new type of coffee machine at our local hospital here. Apparently this coffee machine shows a multi-angle live video feed of... You can be in Japan for many years and still see something new every day. This was the case when Linda and I recently noticed a new type of coffee machine at our local hospital here. Apparently this coffee machine shows a multi-angle live video feed of how your coffee is being prepared inside the machine. We’re quite sure its legit too since my coffee cup had a different color than the customer before me.
And the coffee itself? Amazing! If you are ever in Saint Lukes hospital in the Tsukiji area, hit this machine up!
]]> Christopher S. clean 2:28 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 65 – Long Overdue Update https://www.findingjapan.com/2010/04/351/ Sun, 11 Apr 2010 02:51:21 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2010/04/11/351/ Hey everyone. Thanks for writing and for all of the comments and support. I figured it was well overdue and time for me to provide an update for what has been going on. In this episode, I take some time to address the gaps, give a brief update on our lives and adventures, and explain … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2010/04/351/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 65 – Long Overdue Update"</span></a></p> Hey everyone. Thanks for writing and for all of the comments and support. I figured it was well overdue and time for me to provide an update for what has been going on. In this episode, I take some time to address the gaps, Hey everyone. Thanks for writing and for all of the comments and support. I figured it was well overdue and time for me to provide an update for what has been going on. In this episode, I take some time to address the gaps, give a brief update on our lives and adventures, and explain why things have been taking so long. We talk a bit about the last year and what’s changed and what is to come. Enjoy!
]]> Christopher S. clean christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 64 – Final Episode https://www.findingjapan.com/2009/01/347/ Sat, 03 Jan 2009 18:20:39 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2009/01/04/347/ Well, its that time. Time again for another, and final, Finding Japan episode by yours truly. It took a while but in this episode, I say goodbye to Japan and all of the fun times that we had. At nearly two hours long, this episode highlights some of my favorite parts of Japan by revisiting … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2009/01/347/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 64 – Final Episode"</span></a></p> Well, its that time. Time again for another, and final, Finding Japan episode by yours truly. It took a while but in this episode, I say goodbye to Japan and all of the fun times that we had. At nearly two hours long, Well, its that time. Time again for another, and final, Finding Japan episode by yours truly. It took a while but in this episode, I say goodbye to Japan and all of the fun times that we had. At nearly two hours long, this episode highlights some of my favorite parts of Japan by revisiting clips from prior episodes. Come revisit the podcast with me as we tour through the experiences I had, things I learned, and people I have met.
But rather than give a long-winded overview of the episode, just listen in and enjoy. Details about the future are also enclosed.
Thanks again to all of my friends, all of the listeners and contributors to the podcast, everyone who guided me and helped my find my way through the land of the rising sun. This was truly an amazing life experience and I will never forget it.
Finding Japan has been archived at archive.org for posterity. This site will cease to exist at some point in the future though I will do my best to maintain the feed. Check archive.org for all of the episodes, including prologues to the podcast.
Thank you all.
]]> Christopher S. clean christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 63 – Wrapping It Up https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/06/342/ Sat, 28 Jun 2008 07:14:33 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/06/28/342/ Photo taken at the Panasonic Center in Ariake, Tokyo, Japan. Cardboard dinosaurs rule! Ok, well not really wrapping it up quite yet. Just some thoughts on paying my last rent payment here in Tokyo, a small request to all listeners, answering a letter to my future self, and more. Che-ch-che-ch-checka-check it out! Show Notes: Paying … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/06/342/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 63 – Wrapping It Up"</span></a></p> Photo taken at the Panasonic Center in Ariake, Tokyo, Japan. Cardboard dinosaurs rule! Ok, well not really wrapping it up quite yet. Just some thoughts on paying my last rent payment here in Tokyo, a small request to all listeners, Photo taken at the Panasonic Center in Ariake, Tokyo, Japan. Cardboard dinosaurs rule!
Ok, well not really wrapping it up quite yet. Just some thoughts on paying my last rent payment here in Tokyo, a small request to all listeners, answering a letter to my future self, and more. Che-ch-che-ch-checka-check it out!
Show Notes:

* Paying my last rent payment
* Listeners – submit your thoughts on your favorite part of FJ
* Watching an excavator for 2 mins (sorry for leaving that in there)
* Interlude: “Memories of an Old Dog” by Fireproof Babies
* Thoughts on video games in Japan
* Answering future self letter from 1 year ago
* My Japanese ability
* Moving out sale
* Outro: “Uno Two (Instrumental)” by KCentric

]]> Christopher S. clean 25:05 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 62 – Thoughts During Lunch https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/06/340/ Wed, 18 Jun 2008 12:49:42 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/06/18/340/ Hello everyone. Just a few thoughts I’m tossing out as a catch up episode. Join me for lunch on the bay as we sit, chat, and do a little catching up. Also, in this podcast, I was joined by a special feline guest. Tune in here. Show Notes (none because I am lazy tonight) Hello everyone. Just a few thoughts I’m tossing out as a catch up episode. Join me for lunch on the bay as we sit, chat, and do a little catching up. Also, in this podcast, I was joined by a special feline guest. Tune in here. Hello everyone. Just a few thoughts I’m tossing out as a catch up episode. Join me for lunch on the bay as we sit, chat, and do a little catching up. Also, in this podcast, I was joined by a special feline guest. Tune in here.
Show Notes

* (none because I am lazy tonight)

]]> Christopher S. clean 28:03 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 61 – All Sound Tour https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/05/336/ Sat, 10 May 2008 03:46:37 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/05/10/336/ You asked for it, you got it. Straight from my (old) studio to your ears. This episode is 100% sound tour. Put on a pair of nice headphones and sit back to relax to the sounds of the Japan. The following sounds have been recorded during the last year or so and have been collected … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/05/336/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 61 – All Sound Tour"</span></a></p> You asked for it, you got it. Straight from my (old) studio to your ears. This episode is 100% sound tour. Put on a pair of nice headphones and sit back to relax to the sounds of the Japan. The following sounds have been recorded during the last year o... You asked for it, you got it. Straight from my (old) studio to your ears. This episode is 100% sound tour. Put on a pair of nice headphones and sit back to relax to the sounds of the Japan. The following sounds have been recorded during the last year or so and have been collected for your listening enjoyment.
Show Notes:

* Short Intro
* Clip1: 2007-05-31 Riding the Yurakuchou Line
* Clip2: 2007-09-19 Ariake TOC Building 7-11 Guy with Music
* Clip3: 2007-06-01 Crows at Waseda University
* Clip4: 2007-10-08 Watching Aural Expression Class Video
* Clip5: 2008-01-18 Singing Lame SMAP Songs in Class
* Clip6: 2007-07-07 Watching Tokyo Bousaikan (Disaster Preparedness Center) Smoke Video
* Clip7: 2007-07-15 Awesome French Elevator Music at Doutour Coffee
* Clip8: 2007-12-16 Chilling at a Club in Kobe Talking about Cats with Awesome Funk Music in the Background (Guest Appearance: Terrance from Kobe Beef)
* Clip9: 2007-12-16 Kobe Planetarium Presentation
* Clip10: 2008-04-05 Tokyo Giants Game
* Clip11: 2007-09-20 Sumo Tournament Match
* Clip12: 2007-08-08 Inside the Shinkanesen (Accelerating with Train Announcements)
* Clip13: 2008-04-07 Kanamara Matsuri (a.k.a. Kawasaki Penis Festival)
* Clip14: 2008-04-06 Crazy Sounding Cement Mixer
* Clip15: 2008-02-10 Cacophonous Sounds in Iidabashi (with commentary)
* Clip16: 2007-07-28 Drumming in a Small Park in Shinjuku

]]> Christopher S. clean 34:26 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 60 – Lunch in Ariake https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/04/335/ Tue, 15 Apr 2008 11:57:45 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/04/15/335/ I feel like its quiet time. Join me for lunch in Ariake as I talk about what’s been going on with me over the past few weeks. Show Notes: Intro – my favorite 7-11 guy Quick Overview of What’s Been Up Some Hakone ropeway / cable car Audio Sounds like a spaceship docking bay, for … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/04/335/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 60 – Lunch in Ariake"</span></a></p> I feel like its quiet time. Join me for lunch in Ariake as I talk about what’s been going on with me over the past few weeks. Show Notes: Intro – my favorite 7-11 guy Quick Overview of What’s Been Up Some Hakone ropeway / cable car Audio Sounds like a ... I feel like its quiet time. Join me for lunch in Ariake as I talk about what’s been going on with me over the past few weeks.
Show Notes:

* Intro – my favorite 7-11 guy
* Quick Overview of What’s Been Up
* Some Hakone ropeway / cable car Audio

* Sounds like a spaceship docking bay, for real

* Interlude – Unmoored (Again) by Fourstones (via ccmixter.org)
* Some discussion about my visa problems earlier this month

]]> Christopher S. clean 27:13 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 59 – Saxophone Train https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/03/333/ Tue, 11 Mar 2008 12:43:49 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/03/11/333/ You’ll have to wait until the end to get to the saxophone train on this one. No cheating and no fastforwarding. If so you’ll miss plenty, including some catch up chat, thoughts on what’s been keeping me so busy, and a beer review. 😀 Show Notes: What’s been going on Linda’s Arrival Work Meeting up … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/03/333/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 59 – Saxophone Train"</span></a></p> You’ll have to wait until the end to get to the saxophone train on this one. No cheating and no fastforwarding. If so you’ll miss plenty, including some catch up chat, thoughts on what’s been keeping me so busy, and a beer review. Show Notes:

* What’s been going on

* Linda’s Arrival
* Work
* Meeting up with Saya
* Meeting up with Scott and Karamoon
* New Listeners

* Responding to Blog Comments
* Projects

* Economics, finance, and work-related stuff
* Explaination of how I’d like to keep learning Kanji (help me out)

* Drink Review

* Kamakura Beer
* Daibutsu is there

* Saxophone train

]]> Christopher S. clean christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 58 – Let’s Tokyu Hands https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/02/328/ Sat, 16 Feb 2008 10:07:11 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/02/16/328/ Ever wonder what its like to sit in someone’s pocket as they walk around Tokyo?? Now is your chance to find out! In this episode, I take a commute to Tokyu Hands leaving the recorder on for the full monty. I also talk about two fairly interesting topics. If you’re into sound tours, you’ll enjoy … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/02/328/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 58 – Let’s Tokyu Hands"</span></a></p> Ever wonder what its like to sit in someone’s pocket as they walk around Tokyo?? Now is your chance to find out! In this episode, I take a commute to Tokyu Hands leaving the recorder on for the full monty. I also talk about two fairly interesting topic... Ever wonder what its like to sit in someone’s pocket as they walk around Tokyo?? Now is your chance to find out! In this episode, I take a commute to Tokyu Hands leaving the recorder on for the full monty. I also talk about two fairly interesting topics. If you’re into sound tours, you’ll enjoy this episode.
Show Notes:

* Pre-show – explanation of show format
* Current Laundry Setup

*
* Screwing around with my laundry machine

* Walk to Kuramae

* Hanging out with Scott from Tokyo Calling
* Needed the de-stressing from my visa issues
* Talking about co-habitation with the fiancee
* Quick stop at Lawsons (19:00)
* Cement truck turning sound
* Brief explanation of numbers on train maps

* Kuramae to Iidabashi (9 minutes edited out)

* Construction warnings
* Really annoying alien sound
* Running into the same guy who sold me food the day before

* Iidabashi to Ikebukuro (42:00 – 51:45)

* Trying to find the right exit
* Talking about usage of strange English
* The Bic Camera audio Assault! (45:00)
* Almost going to McDonalds for coffee
* Sonna no kankei nai advertisement (51:00)

* Tokyu Hands

* Valentine’s Day explosion!


]]> Christopher S. clean 55:23 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 57 – Japan Makes You Busy https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/02/326/ Thu, 07 Feb 2008 10:45:27 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/02/07/326/ Let’s get deep again. I tried to mix it up with some pleasant thoughts, some interesting sights, and of course, always deep deep riveting commentary from yours truly (sarcasm goes to 11, you know). Show Notes: Some thoughts about Saizeriya Topic: Japan Makes You Busy A bit about my lifestyle Spending my time on the … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/02/326/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 57 – Japan Makes You Busy"</span></a></p> Let’s get deep again. I tried to mix it up with some pleasant thoughts, some interesting sights, and of course, always deep deep riveting commentary from yours truly (sarcasm goes to 11, you know). Show Notes: Some thoughts about Saizeriya Topic: Japan... Let’s get deep again. I tried to mix it up with some pleasant thoughts, some interesting sights, and of course, always deep deep riveting commentary from yours truly (sarcasm goes to 11, you know).
Show Notes:

* Some thoughts about Saizeriya
* Topic: Japan Makes You Busy

* A bit about my lifestyle
* Spending my time on the computer
* “The Four Hour Separation”

* 1 hr of screwing around
* 1 hr of reading
* 1 hr of art
* 1 hr of life

* [Musical Break]
* Why is it necessary?

* Opportunity overload
* 6 hours spent doing nothing this weekend




* Putting more “real” in realtime


* Train announcer gets on my nerves
* Escalator Apologizers
* Some Closing Thoughts
* Music – “Atlantic Midnight” by Jaspertine from CCMixter.org
* Music – “Drugstar” by Pthalo

]]> Christopher S. clean 31:44 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 56 – Yuri-Pole Position https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/02/325/ Mon, 04 Feb 2008 01:05:39 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/02/04/325/ Another short video post. This time, lets ride the Yurikamome 8-bit style! Enjoy! Another short video post. This time, lets ride the Yurikamome 8-bit style! Enjoy! ]]> Christopher S. clean 2:03 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 55 – Snow Day Alcohol Talk https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/02/322/ Sun, 03 Feb 2008 02:50:14 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/02/03/322/ It’s snowing in Tokyo, so what better way to spend it than bring you all with me on a trip to McDonalds for breakfast. In this episode, I tough it out through the muck and power-line slush bombs to chat about Japanese people and alcohol consumption. This episode is not very organized but there’s plenty … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/02/322/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 55 – Snow Day Alcohol Talk"</span></a></p> It’s snowing in Tokyo, so what better way to spend it than bring you all with me on a trip to McDonalds for breakfast. In this episode, I tough it out through the muck and power-line slush bombs to chat about Japanese people and alcohol consumption. It’s snowing in Tokyo, so what better way to spend it than bring you all with me on a trip to McDonalds for breakfast. In this episode, I tough it out through the muck and power-line slush bombs to chat about Japanese people and alcohol consumption. This episode is not very organized but there’s plenty to listen to and some music mixed in as well. Enjoy.
Show Notes

* Part One

* It’s snowing
* The guy who drank too much last night
* Yakiniku 食べ放題、飲み放題
* Japanese paramedics

* Intermission

* “Fixing My Brain” by Gillies (from CCMixter.org)
* Ordering breakfast at McDonalds
* “Colors Shifting” by Electric West (from CCMixter.org)

* Part Two

* Throwup girl in the train station
* San Nakji’s interview series, I’m next
* Phone call
* Bought some Dekavita
*


]]> Christopher S. clean 31:02 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 54 – Another Zen Moment https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/02/320/ Thu, 31 Jan 2008 22:15:22 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/02/01/320/ See, the great thing about only having work now is that I have time to do stuff like this. This video is from the Osaka Aquarium, one of the largest in the world according to their website. In this clip, we get a good view of the main tank for a few moments while I … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/02/320/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 54 – Another Zen Moment"</span></a></p> See, the great thing about only having work now is that I have time to do stuff like this. This video is from the Osaka Aquarium, one of the largest in the world according to their website. In this clip, we get a good view of the main tank for a few mo... See, the great thing about only having work now is that I have time to do stuff like this. This video is from the Osaka Aquarium, one of the largest in the world according to their website. In this clip, we get a good view of the main tank for a few moments while I rested amidst the gaggles of children.
]]> Christopher S. clean 2:55 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 53 – Finding Guitar Hero https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/01/318/ Wed, 30 Jan 2008 11:31:36 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/01/30/318/ Probably the fast episode I have ever put together, but a good one at that. I’ve got two main chunks of goodness in this episode. First, I talk a little about the CEO at my company and how I see Japanese companies changing. Second, we go on a sound tour of arcades in Ikebukuro looking … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/01/318/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 53 – Finding Guitar Hero"</span></a></p> Probably the fast episode I have ever put together, but a good one at that. I’ve got two main chunks of goodness in this episode. First, I talk a little about the CEO at my company and how I see Japanese companies changing. Second, Probably the fast episode I have ever put together, but a good one at that. I’ve got two main chunks of goodness in this episode. First, I talk a little about the CEO at my company and how I see Japanese companies changing. Second, we go on a sound tour of arcades in Ikebukuro looking for Guitar Hero. Will we find it? Listen in.
Show Notes:

* Working full time
* CEO Story
* Ikebukuro Arcade “Sound Tour”

]]> Christopher S. clean 35:12 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 52 – The Overcoat https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/01/317/ Sun, 27 Jan 2008 05:28:04 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/01/27/317/ A little different approach today. I take a stab at story telling and answer a letter from my future self. It finally came today! Show Notes: School’s out! Well almost Answering a letter to my future self The Overcoat Dan Carlin’s website WNYC Radio Lab website Brief comment about the awards thing A little different approach today. I take a stab at story telling and answer a letter from my future self. It finally came today! Show Notes: School’s out! Well almost Answering a letter to my future self The Overcoat Dan Carlin’s website WNYC Radio La... Show Notes:

* School’s out! Well almost
* Answering a letter to my future self
* The Overcoat

* Dan Carlin’s website
* WNYC Radio Lab website

* Brief comment about the awards thing

]]> Christopher S. clean 34:59 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 51 – Awards and Haircuts (Redo) https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/01/316/ Sat, 19 Jan 2008 03:58:17 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/01/19/316/ This is for all of you who have had trouble downloading the latest episode. I put a link in the blog post itself as well, which I think confused Feedburner. So because of that, here’s a quick repost. If you’ve already downloaded, I apologize but I wanted to make sure the people who were having … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/01/316/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 51 – Awards and Haircuts (Redo)"</span></a></p> This is for all of you who have had trouble downloading the latest episode. I put a link in the blog post itself as well, which I think confused Feedburner. So because of that, here’s a quick repost. If you’ve already downloaded, ]]> Christopher S. clean 29:37 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 51 – Awards and Haircuts https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/01/310/ Mon, 14 Jan 2008 10:24:53 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/01/14/310/ Perhaps I should have accepted an award for the worst haircut-cast ever. At any rate, we’ve got two topics for you this time around. A bit about the award discussion from the previous blog post but even more from the center of cheap haircuts in Japan, QB House. Show Notes: Leopard upgrade completed Throat hurts … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/01/310/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 51 – Awards and Haircuts"</span></a></p> Perhaps I should have accepted an award for the worst haircut-cast ever. At any rate, we’ve got two topics for you this time around. A bit about the award discussion from the previous blog post but even more from the center of cheap haircuts in Japan, Perhaps I should have accepted an award for the worst haircut-cast ever. At any rate, we’ve got two topics for you this time around. A bit about the award discussion from the previous blog post but even more from the center of cheap haircuts in Japan, QB House.
Show Notes:

* Leopard upgrade completed
* Throat hurts – getting a cold?
* Great discussion on the site, thanks!
* Award Discussion

* Make sure you check out JapanPodcasters.com
* Brief listing of some of the podcasts there
* We need to resurrect the Kobe Beef show

* Haircut at QB House

*


* QB House Website
* Haircut costs only 1000円, how can you lose!


* Prior art: Rich Pav’s Hair Cut Cast from May 2005
* Notes about audio

* Television sounding thing – radio
* Fascination with vacuuming my head
* A little weather and language discussion

* The entire audio clip available here: QB House Full


]]> Christopher S. clean 29:37 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 50 – Back in Japan https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/01/307/ Sun, 06 Jan 2008 23:42:57 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/01/07/307/ I’m back in Japan finally. After a wonderfully great time with my family and friends, I’m back to the grind here in Tokyo. A quick update of my travels and some brief impressions after leaving and then returning to this country. Enjoy! Show Notes: Arrived back in Japan Been up for 22 and 1/2 hours … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2008/01/307/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 50 – Back in Japan"</span></a></p> I’m back in Japan finally. After a wonderfully great time with my family and friends, I’m back to the grind here in Tokyo. A quick update of my travels and some brief impressions after leaving and then returning to this country. Enjoy! I’m back in Japan finally. After a wonderfully great time with my family and friends, I’m back to the grind here in Tokyo. A quick update of my travels and some brief impressions after leaving and then returning to this country. Enjoy!
Show Notes:

* Arrived back in Japan

* Been up for 22 and 1/2 hours
* New toys from Christmas

* Continental Airlines entertainment systems
* Getting Into Tokyo – Narita Express vs. Keisei Skyliner
* My occluded view of Mount Fuji
* Impressions on leaving Japan
* Impressions on coming back to Japan

]]> Christopher S. clean 27:38 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 49 – Holiday Message https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/12/303/ Fri, 21 Dec 2007 02:21:58 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/12/21/303/ Nothing fancy, just a quick holiday message to all of you. Happy Holidays! Nothing fancy, just a quick holiday message to all of you. Happy Holidays! ]]> Christopher S. clean 2:00 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 48 – Coffee Episode III https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/12/295/ Sun, 02 Dec 2007 12:18:12 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/12/02/295/ Can you believe it, another coffee episode already!!! This time recorded completely live over Skype, warts and all. Joined by the illustrious Fred, we talk about his new coffee machine as well as do a short sound tour of some places to drink coffee in Japan. Come along for the ride with us and grab … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/12/295/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 48 – Coffee Episode III"</span></a></p> Can you believe it, another coffee episode already!!! This time recorded completely live over Skype, warts and all. Joined by the illustrious Fred, we talk about his new coffee machine as well as do a short sound tour of some places to drink coffee in ... Show Notes:

* Explosive laughing intro
* Fred’s rant about podcasts

* People who talk about how they make podcasts on their podcasts
* Joking about the FindingJapan DVD
* Reminiscing about “Netiquette”

* Why we’re talking about coffee

* Talking about the previous original video episodes before the official FJ episodes started
* The original coffee episode – Episode 21

* Doutor Single Service Packs

*

* Fred’s New Coffee Machine

* A magical tour of Fred brewing coffee
* Discussion of froth vs. no froth with automatic coffee makers
* Baronette flavored coffee taste test

* Japan Coffee Place Audio Sound Tour Review

* Clip 1 – Starbucks in Asakusa
* Clip 2 – Campus Coffee Shop at Waseda University
* Clip 3 – Excelsior in Ikebukuro
* Clip 4 – Doutor in Ueno Station

* Hot and Cold
* Perhaps a non-coffee related show with Fred about Japan in the future??

]]> Christopher S. clean 47:42 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 47 – Tokyo Game Show https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/11/294/ Wed, 28 Nov 2007 05:06:25 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/11/28/294/ Short video clip from the Tokyo Game Show. I only had my cell phone on me that day so I was only able to get some small video. No narration or commentary, just some sights from the show. Hope you enjoy! Short video clip from the Tokyo Game Show. I only had my cell phone on me that day so I was only able to get some small video. No narration or commentary, just some sights from the show. Hope you enjoy! Short video clip from the Tokyo Game Show. I only had my cell phone on me that day so I was only able to get some small video. No narration or commentary, just some sights from the show. Hope you enjoy!
]]> Christopher S. clean 2:52 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 46 – Communication https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/11/287/ Sat, 24 Nov 2007 03:19:21 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/11/24/287/ Another cell phone cast recorded last week sometime, maybe even two weeks ago. I spend some time talking about learning how to communicate and the purpose of language learning. Show Notes Walking back from Kamata A lot of talk about “communication” and “communicating” Check out Rich Pav’s Japlish Podcast Another cell phone cast recorded last week sometime, maybe even two weeks ago. I spend some time talking about learning how to communicate and the purpose of language learning. Show Notes Walking back from Kamata A lot of talk about “communication” and... Another cell phone cast recorded last week sometime, maybe even two weeks ago. I spend some time talking about learning how to communicate and the purpose of language learning.
Show Notes

* Walking back from Kamata
* A lot of talk about “communication” and “communicating”
* Check out Rich Pav’s Japlish Podcast

]]> Christopher S. clean 21:28 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 45 – Drink Review II https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/11/286/ Sat, 17 Nov 2007 09:34:11 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/11/17/286/ Alex and I had an impromptu drink review session after returning from Asakusa last week to grab some yaki-niku. Listen as we bring you through ears through a journey of thirst quenching Chu-Hi’s from both Suntory and Kirin. Some non-serious topics to lighten me up after this crazy week of studying and exams. Enjoy! Show … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/11/286/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 45 – Drink Review II"</span></a></p> Alex and I had an impromptu drink review session after returning from Asakusa last week to grab some yaki-niku. Listen as we bring you through ears through a journey of thirst quenching Chu-Hi’s from both Suntory and Kirin. Alex and I had an impromptu drink review session after returning from Asakusa last week to grab some yaki-niku. Listen as we bring you through ears through a journey of thirst quenching Chu-Hi’s from both Suntory and Kirin. Some non-serious topics to lighten me up after this crazy week of studying and exams. Enjoy!
Show Notes:

* Intro by Alex
* Dueling Suntory and Kirin drinks

* Suntory 196 Ume
* Kirin Apple Nouveau Chu-Hi

* Final Fantasy Potion Drink

]]> Christopher S. clean 37:10 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 44 – The Multitasking Episode https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/11/282/ Sat, 03 Nov 2007 09:11:19 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/11/03/282/ In this episode, I get the podcasting done while commuting back home after a long day of work on Monday. Since time is short, its time to find creative ways to squeeze in the content. I think this format works and if you can get over the cell phone quality, I think its a keeper! … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/11/282/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 44 – The Multitasking Episode"</span></a></p> In this episode, I get the podcasting done while commuting back home after a long day of work on Monday. Since time is short, its time to find creative ways to squeeze in the content. I think this format works and if you can get over the cell phone qua... In this episode, I get the podcasting done while commuting back home after a long day of work on Monday. Since time is short, its time to find creative ways to squeeze in the content. I think this format works and if you can get over the cell phone quality, I think its a keeper! Hope you enjoy!

* Thanks for the feedback on episode 43
* Maximizing time with my new schedule

* The 7AM to 8PM schedule
* Study on the train between school and work
* Podcast on the phone between work and train and school and train

* Trains stopped

* Got hit with two late trains on Monday
* Nice to see the daylight in the morning while on the train
* Get out of jail free card paper for being late

* Addendum to Office Episode

* Document check sheet


* (sorry for the wind in Tsukishima)


* Spa flyers

* Short trip to Lawson’s

* Scaring people by talking to myself
* Funny in-store music
* Nice “LAWSONS!!!” right when I left

* Talking about my things I want to do list

]]> Christopher S. clean 26:13 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 43 – My Responsibility https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/10/281/ Sat, 27 Oct 2007 11:54:08 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/10/27/281/ This show is a little heavy. I talk about culture and learning about what my responsibility to my country might be. A little retrospective, a little forward looking, and a little bit of Oni Koroshi sake for the show. I also throw in an audio bit from the redubbed GI Joe PSAs that I love. … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/10/281/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 43 – My Responsibility"</span></a></p> This show is a little heavy. I talk about culture and learning about what my responsibility to my country might be. A little retrospective, a little forward looking, and a little bit of Oni Koroshi sake for the show. This show is a little heavy. I talk about culture and learning about what my responsibility to my country might be. A little retrospective, a little forward looking, and a little bit of Oni Koroshi sake for the show. I also throw in an audio bit from the redubbed GI Joe PSAs that I love. Enjoy.
Show Notes:

* Shout out to San who’s closer to Japan right now
* Discerning Asian languages
* Culture

* Distance from my country
* Cultural interactions within Japan
* My responsibility back to my country

* Quick story about umbrella (somewhere in there)
* GI Joe PSA – Japanese Version (watch on YouTube)

]]> Christopher S. clean 29:14 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 42 – Worst Podcast Ever! https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/10/279/ Sun, 21 Oct 2007 08:19:55 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/10/21/279/ I’m in a funk, there are no two ways around it. Well, actually just been really busy and have been enjoying the relaxing with the little free time I have. I do manage to bang out a few topics. Hope it works. Here we go. Show Notes: Japanese school boys Thanks for the 作文 feedback … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/10/279/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 42 – Worst Podcast Ever!"</span></a></p> I’m in a funk, there are no two ways around it. Well, actually just been really busy and have been enjoying the relaxing with the little free time I have. I do manage to bang out a few topics. Hope it works. Here we go. I’m in a funk, there are no two ways around it. Well, actually just been really busy and have been enjoying the relaxing with the little free time I have. I do manage to bang out a few topics. Hope it works. Here we go.
Show Notes:

* Japanese school boys
* Thanks for the 作文 feedback
* Better Japanese support in OS X Leopard

* Japanese-English dictionary and thesaurus
* Feature list
* WWWJDIC Online Dictionary
* Windows XP Japanese Input Help

* Shimizu Mega-city Pyramid

* Wikipedia link
* Hope it gets built before I die
* Discovery Channel Extreme Engineering Interactive Site Link

* Meta Talk

* Ronald Donald MacDonald
* Coffee episode update
* Should I start a Mogulus Channel?
* Almost bought an iPod touch


]]> Christopher S. clean 25:16 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 41 – Drink Review https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/10/274/ Fri, 05 Oct 2007 07:48:36 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/10/05/274/ Alex and I do a quick drink review, I reflect on my life for a hot second, and I attempt to talk about Japanese schoolboys but don’t quite get to it. Banging out the podcasts in less than an hour now, get this episode while its fresh! Show Notes Genki Intro Audio Clip from Monday … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/10/274/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 41 – Drink Review"</span></a></p> Alex and I do a quick drink review, I reflect on my life for a hot second, and I attempt to talk about Japanese schoolboys but don’t quite get to it. Banging out the podcasts in less than an hour now, get this episode while its fresh! Show Notes

* Genki Intro
* Audio Clip from Monday night

* New School Schedule and feeling mellow on a Monday evening
* Nice to see Tokyo skyline at night again

* Since Monday

* Stressing out
* What does one want to do with their life?
* “Reading” David Whyte’s – The Heart Aroused

* Celebrating a difficult week complete with a Shirokirin Beer
* Drink Review

* 2 SA’s – Calpis Fizz Light Style
* 1/2 SA – Nikka, Natural Mizuwari
* Trying to do math while drinking whiskey
* NEWSFLASH: Convenience stores in Japan are the first place new drinks are released!
* Check out Way of the Grape

* Next topic will have to wait

]]> Christopher S. clean 32:34 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 40 – Sumo Zombies https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/10/269/ Tue, 02 Oct 2007 12:20:29 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/10/02/269/ Scott Lockman’s latest episode beat me to the punch on the sumo update, but his update on sumo was much more informative than mine so go check it out. If you want audio from sumo, you can get that in this next episode. Recorded right after I was able to get my cord fixed last … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/10/269/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 40 – Sumo Zombies"</span></a></p> Scott Lockman’s latest episode beat me to the punch on the sumo update, but his update on sumo was much more informative than mine so go check it out. If you want audio from sumo, you can get that in this next episode. Scott Lockman’s latest episode beat me to the punch on the sumo update, but his update on sumo was much more informative than mine so go check it out. If you want audio from sumo, you can get that in this next episode. Recorded right after I was able to get my cord fixed last week, I touch upon sumo and a few other topics. Enjoy!
Show Notes:

* More about my power cord
* AppleCare rules!
* Homelessness in Japan

* The guy under the bridge
* The guy who asked me for “hungry”
* The guys who live in Internet cafe’s

* Only in Japan – strangest vending machine to date
* Sumo Wrestling

* Audio clip

* Zombie cleaning crew

* Audio clip


]]> Christopher S. clean 32:40 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 39 – Fire Hazard https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/09/267/ Thu, 27 Sep 2007 10:58:23 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/09/27/267/ On my way to Akiba (Akihabara), I speak on a few topics after discovering a huge fire hazard in my apartment. Find out more by listening below. Show Notes: Walking to Akihabara Crazy thing with my power adapter A little gear-talk School starts on October 1st for me – skipping a level, suicide? Politics Too … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/09/267/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 39 – Fire Hazard"</span></a></p> On my way to Akiba (Akihabara), I speak on a few topics after discovering a huge fire hazard in my apartment. Find out more by listening below. Show Notes: Walking to Akihabara Crazy thing with my power adapter A little gear-talk School starts on Octob... On my way to Akiba (Akihabara), I speak on a few topics after discovering a huge fire hazard in my apartment. Find out more by listening below.
Show Notes:

* Walking to Akihabara
* Crazy thing with my power adapter
* A little gear-talk
* School starts on October 1st for me – skipping a level, suicide?
* Politics

* Too much politics research
* Waiting for Scott’s “What’s Up America”
* Being away from home and how it affects your views

* Darth Vader

* Looking like him
* Dream I had about him when I was a kid

* Tattoos in Japan
* More insights on work

* Emergency rescue kit bag
* Sleepy time
* Power using MS Excel

* My rant about “Lifehacking”
* The podcaster biorhythm
* Follow-up story

]]> Christopher S. clean 37:40 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 38 – Deer of Miyajima https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/09/261/ Mon, 17 Sep 2007 06:00:24 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/09/17/261/ Man and beast collide… well not really. But we did get to hang out with some deer. Enjoy the sites of us interacting with some deer on the island of Miyajima during our vacation in this quick 3 minute video, complete with mellow music for your deer-viewing enjoyment. Notice he goes right for the star … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/09/261/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 38 – Deer of Miyajima"</span></a></p> Man and beast collide… well not really. But we did get to hang out with some deer. Enjoy the sites of us interacting with some deer on the island of Miyajima during our vacation in this quick 3 minute video, Man and beast collide… well not really. But we did get to hang out with some deer. Enjoy the sites of us interacting with some deer on the island of Miyajima during our vacation in this quick 3 minute video, complete with mellow music for your deer-viewing enjoyment.
Notice he goes right for the star in that photo!
]]> Christopher S. clean 3:10 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 37 – Dictionary Games https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/09/258/ Wed, 12 Sep 2007 09:49:17 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/09/12/258/ Seems like this turned out to be the review episode. A Kanji dictionary, a great g4 video podcast to share, and some podcasting software review action. Is this podcast really about Japan?! And why do I mention sheep being on the radio? Find out if you listen here. Let’s go! Show Notes: Intro Getting motivated … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/09/258/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 37 – Dictionary Games"</span></a></p> Seems like this turned out to be the review episode. A Kanji dictionary, a great g4 video podcast to share, and some podcasting software review action. Is this podcast really about Japan?! And why do I mention sheep being on the radio? Seems like this turned out to be the review episode. A Kanji dictionary, a great g4 video podcast to share, and some podcasting software review action. Is this podcast really about Japan?! And why do I mention sheep being on the radio? Find out if you listen here. Let’s go!
Show Notes:

* Intro

* Getting motivated to bring out some more content

* Review of Kanji Sonomama Rakubiki Jiten DS Dictionary

* Who should get it
* Where you can get it

* Play Asia

* Features

* G4 Code Monkeys

* Great clip from a great online show
* iTunes RSS Feed here
* Other G4 podcasts

* Review of Ubercaster

* Podcasting tool
* Great functionality
* Poor performance in editing

* Update: Turning off waveforms really helps though
* Update: Ubercaster is now available for a discount, see the site for details.



]]> Christopher S. clean 37:39 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 36 – Movies and Mt Fuji https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/09/257/ Sun, 09 Sep 2007 22:09:08 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/09/10/257/ Alex joins in for the conversation about our Mt. Fuji experiences. We get sidetracked a little bit first with a few random topics: movie theaters in Asakusa, and the saga of our washing machine. I originally thought this would be a multi-topic episode including the review of the Nintendo DS dictionary and Ubercaster, but alas … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/09/257/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 36 – Movies and Mt Fuji"</span></a></p> Alex joins in for the conversation about our Mt. Fuji experiences. We get sidetracked a little bit first with a few random topics: movie theaters in Asakusa, and the saga of our washing machine. I originally thought this would be a multi-topic episode ... Alex joins in for the conversation about our Mt. Fuji experiences. We get sidetracked a little bit first with a few random topics: movie theaters in Asakusa, and the saga of our washing machine. I originally thought this would be a multi-topic episode including the review of the Nintendo DS dictionary and Ubercaster, but alas it wouldn’t fit – we’ll save that for episode 37.
Picture above is for SanNakji: “Yes those are vending machines”. Alex and I hope you enjoy this nearly hour long episode!
Show Notes:

* Intro
* Movie Theaters in Asakusa
* Washing Machine Troubles
* Mount Fuji

* Getting to Mount Fuji
* Stations
* Descent
* Wrap Up


]]> Christopher S. clean 58:08 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 35 – Yakiimo Truck https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/09/237/ Wed, 05 Sep 2007 06:30:58 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/09/05/237/ One of my most favorite characters in this neighborhood is the Yaki Imo delivery truck. Yaki means grilled and Imo means potato. In this case, this guy sells grilled sweet potatoes. But his method of cruising through the neighborhood should not be taken likely. This man is a pro, even if the recording skips just … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/09/237/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 35 – Yakiimo Truck"</span></a></p> One of my most favorite characters in this neighborhood is the Yaki Imo delivery truck. Yaki means grilled and Imo means potato. In this case, this guy sells grilled sweet potatoes. But his method of cruising through the neighborhood should not be take... Unfortunately, we haven’t seen Mr. Yaki Imo in a while so we’re not quite sure if we will ever get to eat one. But if he comes back, rest assured I will be the first one on my block waiting for that sweet delicious treat. Enjoy!
Oh, and here are the lyrics to the song. Let’s all sing along.
焼き芋〜〜、焼き芋〜〜〜、石焼〜〜〜〜〜〜き芋〜〜〜、焼き芋〜〜〜
yakimo~~, yakiimo~~~, ishi ya~~~~kiimo~~~~~, yakiimo~~~~
roasted potato, roasted potato, stone roasted potato, roasted potato
]]> Christopher S. clean 1:53 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 34 – Tanabata Festival In Asakusa https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/09/239/ Sat, 01 Sep 2007 08:34:01 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/09/01/239/ This is a short slideshow of some sights and sounds captured in Asakusa during the Tanabata festival. The history and meaning behind the Tanabata festival is quite romantic and really quite interesting. Check out some more info here on Wikipedia. Enjoy the mellow music and shades of blue as I walk you through Asakusa to … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/09/239/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 34 – Tanabata Festival In Asakusa"</span></a></p> This is a short slideshow of some sights and sounds captured in Asakusa during the Tanabata festival. The history and meaning behind the Tanabata festival is quite romantic and really quite interesting. Check out some more info here on Wikipedia. This is a short slideshow of some sights and sounds captured in Asakusa during the Tanabata festival. The history and meaning behind the Tanabata festival is quite romantic and really quite interesting. Check out some more info here on Wikipedia.
Enjoy the mellow music and shades of blue as I walk you through Asakusa to Ueno taking in the sights and sounds of the festival. This is a larger frame size file but the download should be very short, only about 4MB or so. Make sure you download and view it. Viewing it here on the website will not let it display in its full size.
If you like this format, please let me know. I would love to get some feedback on it. This type of video podcast is very fun to put together and doesn’t take much time. I’m using what I’ve learned from Stuart Isset’s piece I featured back in April.
]]> Christopher S. clean 2:20 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 33 – Music and Carbonation https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/08/251/ Mon, 27 Aug 2007 11:16:22 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/08/27/251/ I think this is one of the longest episodes to date. Chock full o’ music and my limited insight, I think this episode also clocks in at one of the finest sounding episodes to date. Sweet sounds and tender music, you get this episode at a slightly higher quality (due to the high music content) … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/08/251/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 33 – Music and Carbonation"</span></a></p> I think this is one of the longest episodes to date. Chock full o’ music and my limited insight, I think this episode also clocks in at one of the finest sounding episodes to date. Sweet sounds and tender music, Show Notes:

* Intro
* Katakana difficulty and reading tips

* My personal story about Katakana difficulty
* Some tips

* Don’t assume they’re English words
* Translate after saying it
* Have fun


* Regain Commercial

* Japanese commercials in general
* Original blog post about Regain commercial from Marxy
* Link to YouTube Regain commercial
* What commercials say about the culture of a society
* Work / life balance – is it really here in Japan?

* Only in Japan

* Special guest joins us for Only in Japan
* Links to the signs

* Reading 1


* Reading 2


* Reading 3


* Reading 4

* Music: “The World is Moving Too Fast” by Drye Glassmeyer courtesy of The PodsafeMusic Network

* Japanese music for inspiration

* YMCK

*
* Description of Nerd-core music?
* YMCK Official website
* Samples

* “8 Bit Magical Tour”


* “Kira Kira”


* Marxy

*
* Marxy’s Blog
* Marxy’s Site with Music Links
* Sample Track
* “Beaus in Disarray” on Creation Centre website


* Outro

* Thanks to people who have commented
* Outro track – “Neoplasticism vs. De Stijl” by Marxy


]]> Christopher S. clean 42:03 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 32 – Back in Tokyo https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/08/247/ Mon, 20 Aug 2007 11:42:22 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/08/20/247/ I’m BACK in the saddle again! I’m BACK!!! I’ve had that song stuck in my head all day. Get whatever song you have stuck in your head right out by listening to this next episode and me making excuses why I’ve been gone so long. I semi-experiment with new podcasting software that will “hopefully” make … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/08/247/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 32 – Back in Tokyo"</span></a></p> I’m BACK in the saddle again! I’m BACK!!! I’ve had that song stuck in my head all day. Get whatever song you have stuck in your head right out by listening to this next episode and me making excuses why I’ve been gone so long. I’m BACK in the saddle again! I’m BACK!!! I’ve had that song stuck in my head all day. Get whatever song you have stuck in your head right out by listening to this next episode and me making excuses why I’ve been gone so long. I semi-experiment with new podcasting software that will “hopefully” make me more “productive” and provide a small music interlude at the end related to the movie Akira.
Show Notes

* Introduction and updates
* Where’s Calling Tokyo Calling
* New setup for podcasting
* Vacation Overview
* Things I notice being back in Tokyo

* Tokyo is really clean
* I feel at home in Tokyo, I think
* I’ve turned into “scary man”

* Indonesian Gamelan Music

* Clip from Akira
* Performance from ad-hoc matsuri in Shinjuku


]]> Christopher S. clean 28:11 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Inochi-kun – Too Weird https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/08/245/ Sun, 19 Aug 2007 14:31:08 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/08/19/245/ This was too weird not to post. Again this showed up in my del.icio.us trawling and was not something I searched for and was not prepared to see, yet it did intrigue me so. (direct video link) Click the link above to download the video. It looks like a series of three mini-commercials. (I call … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/08/245/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Inochi-kun – Too Weird"</span></a></p> This was too weird not to post. Again this showed up in my del.icio.us trawling and was not something I searched for and was not prepared to see, yet it did intrigue me so. (direct video link) Click the link above to download the video.
(direct video link)
Click the link above to download the video. It looks like a series of three mini-commercials. (I call them this because Japanese television is famous for short-short commercials, almost less than 4-5 seconds at times). However, I can’t quite put my finger one what is going on here. Aphex-Twin anyone?
I found a site that seems to be a launch site for either a television show or character, here the character is quite promininent. I also found a bit of research on the origins of the Japanese word Inochi.
Can someone help clue me is as to what is going on here!?! I feel somewhat violated and yet concerned at the same time. If I ever hear a child in Japan singing the song in this video, I think I might run away in fear.
At any rate, enjoy the video. The subtitles are accurate so non-Japanese speakers can enjoy too.
]]> Christopher S. clean christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 31 – Update Before Fuji-san https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/07/243/ Fri, 27 Jul 2007 01:46:17 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/07/27/243/ Just a brief update before Fuji-san. We’re heading out today but I wanted to get a quick response to the last episode out, talk briefly about Disneyland, and just say hi. Having lots of fun here in Tokyo and surrounding areas. For Fuji-san, we will be taking some audio at each stop so you all … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/07/243/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 31 – Update Before Fuji-san"</span></a></p> Just a brief update before Fuji-san. We’re heading out today but I wanted to get a quick response to the last episode out, talk briefly about Disneyland, and just say hi. Having lots of fun here in Tokyo and surrounding areas. For Fuji-san, Having lots of fun here in Tokyo and surrounding areas. For Fuji-san, we will be taking some audio at each stop so you all can get the heavy breathing experience as we attempt to climb to the top.
More to come next week! Stay tuned!
]]> Christopher S. clean 10:20 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 30 – Bikeless / Tanabata https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/07/242/ Sat, 21 Jul 2007 03:03:41 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/07/21/242/ Having fun without a bike, find out why in today’s episode. Also, I talk a little bit about Tanabata and share some audio from the Tanabata parade in Asakusa from about 3 weeks ago. Lots has been going on but we’ll keep the episodes coming out. Enjoy. Show Notes: Playing Battlefield 2142 A few more … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/07/242/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 30 – Bikeless / Tanabata"</span></a></p> Having fun without a bike, find out why in today’s episode. Also, I talk a little bit about Tanabata and share some audio from the Tanabata parade in Asakusa from about 3 weeks ago. Lots has been going on but we’ll keep the episodes coming out. Enjoy. Having fun without a bike, find out why in today’s episode. Also, I talk a little bit about Tanabata and share some audio from the Tanabata parade in Asakusa from about 3 weeks ago. Lots has been going on but we’ll keep the episodes coming out. Enjoy.
Show Notes:

* Playing Battlefield 2142
* A few more comments on Japanese rain
* Getting my bike stolen

* Japanese police
* My bike description
* Hanko or no hanko
* Dealing with the feelings afterwards

* Tanabata

* Short description of the mythology behind Tanabata


* Audio tour of the parade

* Brief update on what’s going on

* Big vacation coming up
* Thanks for the downloads
* More material post-vacation coming


]]> Christopher S. clean 29:32 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 29 – Coffee Episode II https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/07/236/ Fri, 06 Jul 2007 15:33:25 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/07/07/236/ Its coffee time again. Join me for round two of my discussion with Fred on the finer points of Japanese coffee. If you’re not sick of hearing the word “coffee” yet, you will be after this episode. Grab a cup and enjoy! Show Notes: Milk teas, bubble teas, what’s going on here? Fred thinks Doutor … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/07/236/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 29 – Coffee Episode II"</span></a></p> Its coffee time again. Join me for round two of my discussion with Fred on the finer points of Japanese coffee. If you’re not sick of hearing the word “coffee” yet, you will be after this episode. Grab a cup and enjoy! Show Notes: Milk teas, Its coffee time again. Join me for round two of my discussion with Fred on the finer points of Japanese coffee. If you’re not sick of hearing the word “coffee” yet, you will be after this episode. Grab a cup and enjoy!
Show Notes:

* Milk teas, bubble teas, what’s going on here?
* Fred thinks Doutor is the best in the world
* In-shop Doutor iced coffee discussion with Alex
* Internet Cafes / Denny’s Coffee (Millstone)
* Coffee Crown
* Trend of instant coffee

This was recorded a while ago so my outro comments may seem out of context. Hope you like it anyway. Cheers!
]]> Christopher S. clean 40:55 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 28 – Playing Initial D https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/06/232/ Thu, 28 Jun 2007 14:41:20 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/06/28/232/ Video killed the podcast star. Well, I’m certainly no star, so I guess I have nothing to worry about. Today’s episode comes in video form. This little gem has been on my hard drive for over 2 months! Finally time to get it out as I rev up for some more audio goodness. In this … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/06/232/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 28 – Playing Initial D"</span></a></p> Video killed the podcast star. Well, I’m certainly no star, so I guess I have nothing to worry about. Today’s episode comes in video form. This little gem has been on my hard drive for over 2 months! Finally time to get it out as I rev up for some more... Video killed the podcast star. Well, I’m certainly no star, so I guess I have nothing to worry about.
Today’s episode comes in video form. This little gem has been on my hard drive for over 2 months! Finally time to get it out as I rev up for some more audio goodness. In this episode, you can watch me play Sega Initial-D, my favorite arcade game at the moment. Why is it my favorite? Well because I have a little Initial-D IC card license that allows me to save my progress. So it’s much more satisfying to know that my 100円 coins are going to a pointless accomplishment that can be tracked, rather than just a pointless activity.
Caution, this is poorly edited and for video game nerds only. Editing my camera phone footage doesn’t exactly jive with Final Cut Pro at the moment. But do check out the vibration effect from the camera phone. It’s like you’re really there playing the game with me! (^_^)
]]> Christopher S. clean 3:57 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 27 – Attempt #3 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/06/229/ Sun, 24 Jun 2007 10:56:04 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/06/24/229/ Its been 8 days, what’s wrong with me?! Find out more by tuning in here. I share a little bit of my personal life and plans for the next few days, talk about some scary little Japanese girl, answer questions about Japan and more. 行きましょう！ Show Notes Quick update Short story about Harajuku girls Planning … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/06/229/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 27 – Attempt #3"</span></a></p> Its been 8 days, what’s wrong with me?! Find out more by tuning in here. I share a little bit of my personal life and plans for the next few days, talk about some scary little Japanese girl, answer questions about Japan and more. Its been 8 days, what’s wrong with me?! Find out more by tuning in here. I share a little bit of my personal life and plans for the next few days, talk about some scary little Japanese girl, answer questions about Japan and more. 行きましょう！
Show Notes

* Quick update

* Short story about Harajuku girls


* Planning my summer vacation

* Kobe Beef episode with some ideas.

* School update

* Presentation trip with my professor

* Lessons learned from his teaching style

* Sound scene (seeing) tour: Japanese Little League Game
* Story: Scary Little Girls!!
* Only in Japan: Pineapple Kit Kat

*
* Click for a larger picture

* Questions:

* Answered today: “Easy or hard to meet Japanese people on more than just a superficial level?” (From San from SNA Podcast)

* Quick chat about my friend
* Japanese people really similar to American people in “worldliness”
* Tangent: Youth Culture article in BusinessWeek

* 6-month future self question: “What do you think American can learn from Japan and what thing would you like to see in your own country that Japan has?” (Also from San from the SNA Podcast)

* Wrap up and thanks

]]> Christopher S. clean 46:00 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 26 – Matsuri https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/06/224/ Fri, 15 Jun 2007 15:02:25 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/06/16/224/ Show Notes: Quick Updates Catching up with school because of Hashika Been in Japan over 90 days! Japanese rain, its different, for real! Preparing for summer vacation Matsuri How I got involved in this matsuri Photos from the Sanja Matsuri Outfits / Tabi / Happi Photos from the matsuri I was in Mikoshi What I … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/06/224/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 26 – Matsuri"</span></a></p> Show Notes: Quick Updates Catching up with school because of Hashika Been in Japan over 90 days! Japanese rain, its different, for real! Preparing for summer vacation Matsuri How I got involved in this matsuri Photos from the Sanja Matsuri Outfits / Ta... Show Notes:

* Quick Updates

* Catching up with school because of Hashika
* Been in Japan over 90 days!
* Japanese rain, its different, for real!
* Preparing for summer vacation

* Matsuri

* How I got involved in this matsuri
* Photos from the Sanja Matsuri
* Outfits / Tabi / Happi
* Photos from the matsuri I was in
* Mikoshi
* What I had to do
* Shaking the Mikoshi around in front of a guys house
* (Kim Chi break)
* The aftermath
* “Ssa Ssa Ssa Sssaaaa” guy
* What I think I learned
* Impromptu Only in Japan – neighborhood music

* New Finding Japan Segment

* LTMFS (listen to find out what this means)

* Way to ask your own question

* Email: christopher [a t] findingjapan [d o t] com
* Voicemail: check the sidebar

* Outro and thanks

]]> Christopher S. clean 48:12 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 25 – Office Episode https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/06/221/ Fri, 08 Jun 2007 15:21:18 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/06/09/221/ The office episode has finally arrived, 6 weeks after I had started to do the recordings. Get the skinny on my first 6 weeks in a Japanese office, differences I have found, comparisons I was able to make. Though I’m sure there is much more I could have said, I at least hope that the … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/06/221/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 25 – Office Episode"</span></a></p> The office episode has finally arrived, 6 weeks after I had started to do the recordings. Get the skinny on my first 6 weeks in a Japanese office, differences I have found, comparisons I was able to make. Though I’m sure there is much more I could have... The office episode has finally arrived, 6 weeks after I had started to do the recordings. Get the skinny on my first 6 weeks in a Japanese office, differences I have found, comparisons I was able to make. Though I’m sure there is much more I could have said, I at least hope that the parts I left in are interesting.
Show Notes:

* Introduction
* Japanese office observations

* My initial viewpoint – short history

* American cube-life

* Physical layout – Oobeya seido (大部屋制度)
* Organizational structure
* Vibe of a Japanese office

* Speed of response
* Attentiveness to particular details
* Meeting formalities
* Planning things ahead

* IT worker stereotypes

* Slouch guy
* Hypochondriac guy
* Sweaty guy

* Japanese working hours

* Prevalence of company commitment
* Omiage as an example of this commitment
* East coast US / Japan time difference advantage
* Side Topic: Yurikamome Peeps?

* Things I take for granted

* Knowing when you are understood
* Explaining complex topics

* Outro and thanks

* Tokyo Calling
* Kobe Beef Show
* HerroFlomJapan
* Hello From Michigan
* SNA Podcast
* Life in the Shadows
* Dicks and Janes
* Music featured in the podcast – Pthalo (scroll to bottom to find albums)



]]> Christopher S. clean 40:03 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 24 – Interview Project https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/06/219/ Fri, 01 Jun 2007 14:44:17 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/06/01/219/ This episode is about my Japanese language ability, or lack thereof. This week in class, we had to perform our second interview project where we interview students on campus. This time, I brought the recorder along. In this episode, I share the actual interview audio and reflect a bit on my ability after being in … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/06/219/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 24 – Interview Project"</span></a></p> This episode is about my Japanese language ability, or lack thereof. This week in class, we had to perform our second interview project where we interview students on campus. This time, I brought the recorder along. In this episode, This episode is about my Japanese language ability, or lack thereof. This week in class, we had to perform our second interview project where we interview students on campus. This time, I brought the recorder along. In this episode, I share the actual interview audio and reflect a bit on my ability after being in Japan for over two months now.
Show notes:

* Time shifted intro (What day is it really?)
* Interview audio

* Intro with Alex (from France)
* First interview attempt (got “nai”-ed by 3 girls)
* Second Interview
* Third Interview
* Fourth Interview

* Some reflections after listening to the episode myself

]]> Christopher S. clean 22:22 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 23 – Miracle Fruit https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/05/215/ Tue, 29 May 2007 00:25:43 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/05/29/215/ This was something I had been meaning to do since I arrived in Japan. Alex and I headed out to Namco Namja Town in Ikebukuro (map) this past Saturday in search of miracle fruit. I heard about miracle fruit about 6 months ago and was surprised to hear that it was available in Japan. I … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/05/215/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 23 – Miracle Fruit"</span></a></p> This was something I had been meaning to do since I arrived in Japan. Alex and I headed out to Namco Namja Town in Ikebukuro (map) this past Saturday in search of miracle fruit. I heard about miracle fruit about 6 months ago and was surprised to hear t... This was something I had been meaning to do since I arrived in Japan. Alex and I headed out to Namco Namja Town in Ikebukuro (map) this past Saturday in search of miracle fruit. I heard about miracle fruit about 6 months ago and was surprised to hear that it was available in Japan. I wrote myself a note and that note popped up in front of me this weekend so off we went.
Miracle fruit is the common name of Synsepalum dulcificum, a berry containing miraculin which has the power to stop sour tastes in their tracks. Alex and I went out to find the Miracle Fruit Cafe in Namja Town and this episode is our audio experience of trying miracle fruit.
Instead of show notes. I’m posting pictures and links here. The show is just us talking.
Show Notes:

* Miracle Fruit Wikipedia entry
* Namja Town website
* Links to Miracle Fruit photos from the restaurant

]]> Christopher S. clean 18:00 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 22 – The Battle Boat https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/05/212/ Fri, 25 May 2007 23:03:59 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/05/26/212/ A short only-in-japan video episode segment to take you over the weekend hump. I’ve often walked by the Sumida River and have seen this very strange-looking boat sailing up and down the river. I stealthily hunted it down and have finally published here for the world to see. Alternate video link (Google Video) A short only-in-japan video episode segment to take you over the weekend hump. I’ve often walked by the Sumida River and have seen this very strange-looking boat sailing up and down the river. I stealthily hunted it down and have finally published here... A short only-in-japan video episode segment to take you over the weekend hump. I’ve often walked by the Sumida River and have seen this very strange-looking boat sailing up and down the river. I stealthily hunted it down and have finally published here for the world to see.
Alternate video link (Google Video)
]]> Christopher S. clean 1:09 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Calling Tokyo Calling https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/05/213/ Fri, 25 May 2007 15:07:28 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/05/26/213/ This evening I had the great pleasure of participating in Scott Lockman’s Calling Tokyo Calling podcast series where he uses the new service Talkshoe to engage his listeners directly. After my first experience, I have to say, this type of format for doing audio is really compelling. I particularly like the collaborative aspect of running … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/05/213/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Calling Tokyo Calling"</span></a></p> This evening I had the great pleasure of participating in Scott Lockman’s Calling Tokyo Calling podcast series where he uses the new service Talkshoe to engage his listeners directly. After my first experience, I have to say, This evening I had the great pleasure of participating in Scott Lockman’s Calling Tokyo Calling podcast series where he uses the new service Talkshoe to engage his listeners directly. After my first experience, I have to say, this type of format for doing audio is really compelling. I particularly like the collaborative aspect of running a show with your listeners and soliciting and reacting to real time text and audio feedback.
In this short 30 minute episode, he was able to react to a fellow podcaster here in Japan (myself), San from New Zealand who runs the SNA Cast, Matt in Tennessee and more. Even the after-party was a blast. It was great fun and it looks like Scott will be making this a regular feature so there will be more to come. Next week Scott has invited me back to comment on Japanese cell phones. Check it out.
This evening’s episode can be downloaded here or streamed by visiting the page here.
]]> Christopher S. clean christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 21 – Coffee Show Part 1 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/05/209/ Wed, 23 May 2007 23:33:53 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/05/24/209/ The coffee episode had landed! Well at least 1/2 half of it. Fred joins me live from Times Square as we discuss the ins and outs of various coffee experiences in Japan. Scott Lockman provides a cameo from Allez France in Tokyo. It’s always interesting in these parts. And since I ended up having much … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/05/209/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 21 – Coffee Show Part 1"</span></a></p> The coffee episode had landed! Well at least 1/2 half of it. Fred joins me live from Times Square as we discuss the ins and outs of various coffee experiences in Japan. Scott Lockman provides a cameo from Allez France in Tokyo. The coffee episode had landed! Well at least 1/2 half of it. Fred joins me live from Times Square as we discuss the ins and outs of various coffee experiences in Japan. Scott Lockman provides a cameo from Allez France in Tokyo. It’s always interesting in these parts.
And since I ended up having much more material than I anticipated, this special will be brought to you in two, yes two, episodes. Combine a little bit of background noise from the skype / laptop mic, and voila … a perfectly listen-able episode for your coffee curiosity satisfying pleasure. Enjoy!
Show Notes:

* Intro Music – “Hologram Jesus” by Pthalo
* Coffee Music – “Coffee Man” by Calvin Owens
* The “Detroit Story”
* Some high-level comparisons of coffee shops in Japan

* Starbucks

* Discussion on sugar types

* Coffee even at Mos Burger
* McDonalds

* Allez France (direct from Scott Lockman of Tokyo Calling)
* Vending Machine Coffee

* Boss coffee – since 1992
* Vending machine photo link we discuss
* “Black” coffee
* Coffee cans
* What makes vending machine coffee great
* Machine brewed coffee – Flavia machine at work


]]> Christopher S. clean 32:08 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 20 – Riding the Yurikamome https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/05/208/ Mon, 21 May 2007 13:10:56 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/05/21/208/ Original photo here (used via CC license) In this video episode, come along with me and ride the Yurikamome most of the way to Shinbashi. Loosely edited, but you will get to see many of the strange buildings with unique architecture along the way, including the Fuji Television building. The “red” dot is my camera … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/05/208/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 20 – Riding the Yurikamome"</span></a></p> Original photo here (used via CC license) In this video episode, come along with me and ride the Yurikamome most of the way to Shinbashi. Loosely edited, but you will get to see many of the strange buildings with unique architecture along the way, Original photo here (used via CC license)
In this video episode, come along with me and ride the Yurikamome most of the way to Shinbashi. Loosely edited, but you will get to see many of the strange buildings with unique architecture along the way, including the Fuji Television building. The “red” dot is my camera light, not a UFO. Enjoy!
]]> Christopher S. clean 5:58 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 19 – Commute-cast and More https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/05/204/ Thu, 17 May 2007 15:15:40 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/05/18/204/ You better believe it …. this episode is action-packed and quite possibly, the longest FJ episode to date! I managed to fit in the commute cast (complete with official PASMO song), dinner boats, slip on shoes, podcasting pre-cursors, supermarkets, transvestite bands, and more. What started as a short stint in the park on a beautiful … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/05/204/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 19 – Commute-cast and More"</span></a></p> You better believe it …. this episode is action-packed and quite possibly, the longest FJ episode to date! I managed to fit in the commute cast (complete with official PASMO song), dinner boats, slip on shoes, podcasting pre-cursors, supermarkets, You better believe it …. this episode is action-packed and quite possibly, the longest FJ episode to date! I managed to fit in the commute cast (complete with official PASMO song), dinner boats, slip on shoes, podcasting pre-cursors, supermarkets, transvestite bands, and more. What started as a short stint in the park on a beautiful Saturday afternoon turned into a full blown episode. Though its a bit windy and I often “pop” the microphone, I hope you all still enjoy.
Show Notes:

* I screw up the episode number so I substituted it with a mac voice
* Commute Cast

* Material from last month’s discussion with Alex
* PASMO song – watch it here
* JR Rail Pass
* Student Passes
* The One Card I Need – PASMO Student Pass

* Dinner boats in the Sumida River
* Slip-on-shoes
* More Talk about Podcasts

* Pre-cursors to podcasting
* Listener material from Japan
* NPR’s Lost and Found Sound – The Vietnam Tapes of Lance Corporal Michael A. Baronowski

* When this project is finished, I will put it on archive.org

* Japanese supermarket experiences
* My latest tachinomi experience

* A night without English
* Meeting the manager of a transvestite synth-pop band

* Only in Japan – Playboy Logo branded items
* Closing

* Various thanks
* 10% of FJ traffic last month came from Tokyo Calling
* Request to other Japan podcasters


]]> Christopher S. clean 42:01 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 18 – 18 Minute Update https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/05/202/ Mon, 14 May 2007 15:19:44 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/05/15/202/ Just a quick 18 minute update for episode 18. I really didn’t plan it that way, weird. One main topic and a bunch blabber divided into two parts. Enjoy! Show Notes: Part I – AM Planned material ahead, ごめん、ね！ Coffee episode audio is recorded Quick stop at the conbini Police officers – part two Thinking … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/05/202/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 18 – 18 Minute Update"</span></a></p> Just a quick 18 minute update for episode 18. I really didn’t plan it that way, weird. One main topic and a bunch blabber divided into two parts. Enjoy! Show Notes: Part I – AM Planned material ahead, ごめん、ね！ Coffee episode audio is recorded... Show Notes:

* Part I – AM

* Planned material ahead, ごめん、ね！
* Coffee episode audio is recorded
* Quick stop at the conbini
* Police officers – part two

* Thinking more with an open mind
* Boredoms – buy the album at the iTMS

* Part II – PM

* What’s going on at work
* More open mind blabber
* “Summer Madness” by Kool and The Gang


]]> Christopher S. clean 18:01 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 17 – Walking Through Asakusa https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/05/199/ Sun, 06 May 2007 12:32:33 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/05/06/199/ I took the chance during this rainy day to walk around Asakusa and just spout random thoughts into my cell phone. Listening back, it wasn’t all that bad so I’m posting it as a podcast episode. This one feels a little more intimate and fun I think. Plus, there is all sorts of great things … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/05/199/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 17 – Walking Through Asakusa"</span></a></p> I took the chance during this rainy day to walk around Asakusa and just spout random thoughts into my cell phone. Listening back, it wasn’t all that bad so I’m posting it as a podcast episode. This one feels a little more intimate and fun I think. I took the chance during this rainy day to walk around Asakusa and just spout random thoughts into my cell phone. Listening back, it wasn’t all that bad so I’m posting it as a podcast episode. This one feels a little more intimate and fun I think. Plus, there is all sorts of great things to listen for in the background. Enjoy!
Show Notes:

* Another haircut at QB House
* Looking for headphones in Asakusa
* Eating breakfast at Denny’s (menu photo 1 / menu photo 2)
* Comments on restaurants in general
* Children’s book I’m reading

* Link to Amazon.co.jp page for it
*

* Coffee episode coming soon
* Comments on various store fronts I pass by

]]> Christopher S. clean 13:49 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 16 – Medicine and Parks https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/05/195/ Fri, 04 May 2007 13:11:22 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/05/04/195/ Is it true? Is it true? An audio episode?! Yes, I know its been a while but I pulled up my bootstraps and got myself in front of the mic for a good hour today. After editing out all the coughs and false starts, this one comes down to about 41 minutes or so. A … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/05/195/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 16 – Medicine and Parks"</span></a></p> Is it true? Is it true? An audio episode?! Yes, I know its been a while but I pulled up my bootstraps and got myself in front of the mic for a good hour today. After editing out all the coughs and false starts, Is it true? Is it true? An audio episode?! Yes, I know its been a while but I pulled up my bootstraps and got myself in front of the mic for a good hour today. After editing out all the coughs and false starts, this one comes down to about 41 minutes or so. A full episode follows, complete with a brief sound scene at Mos Burger, only in Japan segment, and two big topics. Listen to my gravel-like voice in true stereo as I whisk you through the Japanese medical experience and my reflections on the park.
Show Notes:

* Golden Week and what I’ve been doing
* Being sick in Japan

* This cold is kicking my ass


* Pharmacy / medicine store experience
* Japanese medicine
* Japanese clinic experience

* Armpit thermometer

* Comments on Japanese health-care system

* Park visit today

* Had to get out of the house
* Listening to Jazz while biking through Tokyo

* Comparing Japan to New York

* Mos Burger Sound Scene [3 mins]
* Only in Japan: How many dogs can you take to the park??
* Japanese park teaches me to relax and enjoy life

* Another story about my bike

* Proof that I’m not the only manly-man riding a mama-chari bike

* Updates

* Computer work
* Yurikamome video footage
* New episodes

* Hi’s and Hello’s
* Rock concert podcast ending [it takes for ever]

]]> Christopher S. clean 41:56 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 15 – Biking Through Tokyo https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/05/193/ Wed, 02 May 2007 11:55:07 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/05/02/193/ Yeeeesssssssss. Here it is. The episode you’ve all been waiting for, “Biking Through Tokyo”. I hope I didn’t talk it up too much prior to this. I edited this over the weekend. The footage had been sitting on my drive for about 2 weeks, just dying to be put to good use. I had to … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/05/193/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 15 – Biking Through Tokyo"</span></a></p> Yeeeesssssssss. Here it is. The episode you’ve all been waiting for, “Biking Through Tokyo”. I hope I didn’t talk it up too much prior to this. I edited this over the weekend. The footage had been sitting on my drive for about 2 weeks, Yeeeesssssssss. Here it is. The episode you’ve all been waiting for, “Biking Through Tokyo”. I hope I didn’t talk it up too much prior to this. I edited this over the weekend. The footage had been sitting on my drive for about 2 weeks, just dying to be put to good use.
I had to be a little creative with the editing since alot of it was bumping. It’s alot like drinking too much coffee the way it runs now. Please don’t eat anything while watching this. Hopefully you will enjoy some of the sights of Tokyo as I did on that day. Oh, and instead of shownotes, here are delicious time-code notes where I’ve marked points of interest that I don’t mention in audio.
Show Notes

* 0:00 – Fancy-schmancy intro as always
* 1:00 – The dreaded Nissan’s Business Japanese makes a guest appearance
* 1:06 – Note the super-secure bike lock
* 1:37 – じてんしゃ is Japanese for Bicycle (pronounced “ji-tenn-sha”)
* 1:47 – That is a highway on/off ramp
* 2:18-2:25 – If you look closely, you can almost see the kitty-cat sticker on the bell. LOL
* 2:58 – Ferrari
* 3:40 – Notice how many different types of sidewalks there are yet??
* 3:47 – I pedal through people in Asakusa-bashi w/o touching my feet on the ground – You have no idea how hard it was to navigate that with one hand and film at the same time. ^_^
* 4:22 – The Asahi Beer building

Special thanks to Gustav Young from Oddioblender for letting me use the track “Frantic Footsteps” for this video. Please check out the site for more great glitchy nerdcore music. I listen to this album constantly!
Alternative video link (Google Video)
]]> Christopher S. clean 4:49 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 14 – Riding the Tokyo Monorail https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/04/189/ Sun, 29 Apr 2007 03:30:04 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/04/29/189/ (Photo used with Creative Commons Attribution-Sharealike 2.0 License – Original) A few days ago, I had to head down to the Tokyo Regional Immigration bureau. What fun!! However, there was one redeeming result of the trip: I was able to ride the Tokyo Monorail. I’m fairly familiar with most of Tokyo’s transportation systems, but I … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/04/189/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 14 – Riding the Tokyo Monorail"</span></a></p> (Photo used with Creative Commons Attribution-Sharealike 2.0 License – Original) A few days ago, I had to head down to the Tokyo Regional Immigration bureau. What fun!! However, there was one redeeming result of the trip: I was able to ride the Tokyo M... (Photo used with Creative Commons Attribution-Sharealike 2.0 License – Original)
A few days ago, I had to head down to the Tokyo Regional Immigration bureau. What fun!! However, there was one redeeming result of the trip: I was able to ride the Tokyo Monorail. I’m fairly familiar with most of Tokyo’s transportation systems, but I had never ridden this particular line. It was a great experience. If you visit Tokyo, I recommend you make it a point to ride this line, second to the Shinkansen of course.
What is different about the Tokyo Monorail from other lines is it is completely above ground. Sure, most of the JR lines are as well, but the Monorail soars above neighborhoods and between buildings – a feat that the JR lines do not accomplish. When you ride JR, you see track and rocks as you ride in an area specifically laid out for train travel. When you ride the Tokyo Monorail, you literally fly past buildings and over people as they tend to their daily lives.
I hope you enjoy this short video. I had to use a little different method to put it together since it came primarily off my cell phone.
]]> Christopher S. clean 5:05 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Great Photo / Video Piece https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/04/187/ Wed, 25 Apr 2007 13:29:03 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/04/25/187/ I have my iTunes pointed at del.icio.us for crawling of videos with Japan related content. Today something amazingly touching and very creative showed up in my iTunes. Below is a link to a movie of photographs by Stuart Isset. ©2007 Stuart Isett/www.isett.com (used with permission) This piece is truly moving, giving a great sense of … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/04/187/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Great Photo / Video Piece"</span></a></p> I have my iTunes pointed at del.icio.us for crawling of videos with Japan related content. Today something amazingly touching and very creative showed up in my iTunes. Below is a link to a movie of photographs by Stuart Isset. ©2007 Stuart Isett/www. iTunes pointed at del.icio.us for crawling of videos with Japan related content. Today something amazingly touching and very creative showed up in my iTunes. Below is a link to a movie of photographs by Stuart Isset.

©2007 Stuart Isett/www.isett.com (used with permission)
This piece is truly moving, giving a great sense of the intimacy of Japanese life, the highs and the lows, and things one doesn’t see when they take the tourist route.
If you are at least interested in Japan or at the very least, love great photography, please download this and watch it. Also, check out Stuart’s site or his Flickr photos. Over here, I’m learning that finding Japan is also about finding other people’s impressions of Japan. This truly is an inspiration, perhaps for future episodes. Thanks Stuart!
Video Link
]]> Christopher S. clean christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 13 – Tokyo Calling Crossover https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/04/182/ Mon, 23 Apr 2007 22:22:31 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/04/24/182/ This episode is the first ever, Finding Japan Tokyo Calling crossover episode. Not really sure what else to call it. I met up with Scott Lockman from Tokyo calling a few weekends back. We spent very little time getting to know each other since we had already known each other through our respective podcasts. However, … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/04/182/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 13 – Tokyo Calling Crossover"</span></a></p> This episode is the first ever, Finding Japan Tokyo Calling crossover episode. Not really sure what else to call it. I met up with Scott Lockman from Tokyo calling a few weekends back. We spent very little time getting to know each other since we had a... This episode is the first ever, Finding Japan Tokyo Calling crossover episode. Not really sure what else to call it. I met up with Scott Lockman from Tokyo calling a few weekends back. We spent very little time getting to know each other since we had already known each other through our respective podcasts. However, we did share the common interest in technology, the future of podcasting and more.
This interview occurred in a noisy hotel front coffee shop in Tokyo. If you can stand the background noise, please listen. Enjoy!
Show notes:

* A brief chat on the creative process and writing every day
* Formats of podcasts / how Tokyo Calling developed
* Why do people listen to podcasts?
* Privacy and the Internet
* Future of social networking

I’d like to thank Scott for taking time out of his busy day to chat. Hopefully this won’t be the last of such episodes.
]]> Christopher S. clean 24:43 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 12 – Hot Dog Animals https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/04/184/ Sun, 22 Apr 2007 02:22:24 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/04/22/184/ Last weekend Alex and I attempted to make hot dog animals based on the instructions on the back. How well did we do? Find out here. This is a short video on the results we were able to achieve with our limited culinary skills. Alternative video link (Google Video) Last weekend Alex and I attempted to make hot dog animals based on the instructions on the back. How well did we do? Find out here. This is a short video on the results we were able to achieve with our limited culinary skills. Last weekend Alex and I attempted to make hot dog animals based on the instructions on the back. How well did we do? Find out here. This is a short video on the results we were able to achieve with our limited culinary skills.
Alternative video link (Google Video)
]]> Christopher S. clean 2:38 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 11 – Bike-capades and Yaki-Soba https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/04/179/ Mon, 16 Apr 2007 21:52:27 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/04/16/179/ I should have given the cops some Yaki-imo. Confused?! Well listen in to today’s episode and get acquainted with the Yaki-imo truck vendor, the cops, and my dinner. This episode comes straight from my kitchen while I cook up one of the only dishes I know how to make here in Japan, Yaki-soba. MMmmm. ^_^ … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/04/179/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 11 – Bike-capades and Yaki-Soba"</span></a></p> I should have given the cops some Yaki-imo. Confused?! Well listen in to today’s episode and get acquainted with the Yaki-imo truck vendor, the cops, and my dinner. This episode comes straight from my kitchen while I cook up one of the only dishes I kn... Show Notes

* Making Yaki Soba
* Busy as sin, so I can’t mail anything right now ^_^
* More about GTD

* Vitalist has a Mobile Site

* Buying a bicycle – Mama Chari
* Getting pulled over by the cops, on a bike
* Bear with me while my food cooks LOUDLY – it doesn’t quite work well in audio does it?
* Should I post the TokyoCalling duel interview clips?
* Helmet’s “Size Matters” in Japan has two bonus tracks
* Dark side of podcasting

* Terrance is a patient guy


* And I start using street lingo while explaining it, what’s with that?

* Listen to A Year in Japan’s episode on Love Hotels
* Yaki-imo やきいも Truck Recording – Stone Roasted Potatoes

]]> Christopher S. clean 29:15 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 10 – Cell Phone Code Reader https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/04/177/ Sat, 14 Apr 2007 10:49:59 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/04/14/177/ Ok well, maybe not a full episode, but a short one minute clip I put together before heading out for the night. Earlier today, Alex and I tore up Tokyo by bike. Stopping at Akihabara to get an Ebi-Filet, I began playing with my cell phone’s bar code reader. I was amazed at how fast … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/04/177/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 10 – Cell Phone Code Reader"</span></a></p> Ok well, maybe not a full episode, but a short one minute clip I put together before heading out for the night. Earlier today, Alex and I tore up Tokyo by bike. Stopping at Akihabara to get an Ebi-Filet, I began playing with my cell phone’s bar code re... Ok well, maybe not a full episode, but a short one minute clip I put together before heading out for the night. Earlier today, Alex and I tore up Tokyo by bike. Stopping at Akihabara to get an Ebi-Filet, I began playing with my cell phone’s bar code reader. I was amazed at how fast it read the bar code.
The bar codes (also known as QR codes) are in a square format and contain text information, usually a URL. In this case, McDonald’s publishes all of their nutritional information this way. Want to know how many pounds that Choco-Pie is going to add on? Just whip out your keitai and check it out. Man, I do love Japan! Enjoy!
Upcoming episodes for those who cannot wait to hear, I’ve got some great material coming up: Getting stopped by the cops on bike in Japan, making elephant characters out of hotdogs (video), and my first full week in a Japanese office. Stay tuned.
Alternative video link (Google Video)
]]> Christopher S. clean 59 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 9 – The Lo-Fi Episode https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/04/176/ Wed, 11 Apr 2007 15:03:37 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/04/11/176/ Today’s episode is very much like a one-way telephone conversation. Recording with my cellular phone, I do a quick update and introduce a few subjects very briefly, not getting into too much depth. This is more of an experiment than a proper episode. I hope it meets the approval of your ears in terms of … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/04/176/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 9 – The Lo-Fi Episode"</span></a></p> Today’s episode is very much like a one-way telephone conversation. Recording with my cellular phone, I do a quick update and introduce a few subjects very briefly, not getting into too much depth. This is more of an experiment than a proper episode. Show Notes:

* Wednesday = hump day?
* Doing the podcast on my keitai (cell phone)
* Regular schedule in Japan has started
* Will do an entire episode on coffee in Japan
* Will do an entire episode on first week in a Japanese office
* Keeping in touch with friends (Gmail / Keitai symbiosis)
* Getting Things Done

* Vitalist

* Will this be a full episode? – Yes.

]]> Christopher S. clean 10:02 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 8 – Hanami Video https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/04/175/ Mon, 09 Apr 2007 11:11:07 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/04/09/175/ (Sorry for the late posting, was on the run to my first day of work this morning!) ^_^ Yes yes, another video episode. I have finally nailed down my video episode creation workflow so this isn’t all that time-consuming to put together anymore. Hopefully I will have time to do more in the future, however … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/04/175/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 8 – Hanami Video"</span></a></p> (Sorry for the late posting, was on the run to my first day of work this morning!) ^_^ Yes yes, another video episode. I have finally nailed down my video episode creation workflow so this isn’t all that time-consuming to put together anymore. (Sorry for the late posting, was on the run to my first day of work this morning!) ^_^
Yes yes, another video episode. I have finally nailed down my video episode creation workflow so this isn’t all that time-consuming to put together anymore. Hopefully I will have time to do more in the future, however with work starting I have a feeling we’ll be getting quite a few more commute-casts in the near future. Anyway, onto the video…
This video contains some various clips of Sakura blossoms I have taken over the past week. Tokyo has had a fairly long (at least from my perspective) cherry blossom viewing season. I believe it peaked early last week, but even this weekend there was some cherry blossoms still out for the viewing. Some of these clips were taken as late as last Friday, when I did the podcast from the park.
As a bonus, I’ve also put in Alex trying a little bit of we dubbed “juice-box sake” (photo above). These are available in almost all convenience stores. I haven’t had any sort of liquid in this type of container since I was a child and I had them put in my lunch box. Drinking sake out of these was quite a weird trip back in time. Anyway, I hope you enjoy the video. Cheers!
Alternative video link (Google Video)
]]> Christopher S. clean 3:06 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 7 – Humility https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/04/172/ Fri, 06 Apr 2007 10:54:29 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/04/06/172/ Take a stroll with me as I take a walk through a park near where I live and talk a bit about lessons in humility. I have a random conversation with a stranger and share some sounds of Tokyo as I walk home. A short episode coming in at 20 mins and little more personal … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/04/172/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 7 – Humility"</span></a></p> Take a stroll with me as I take a walk through a park near where I live and talk a bit about lessons in humility. I have a random conversation with a stranger and share some sounds of Tokyo as I walk home. A short episode coming in at 20 mins and littl... Show Notes:

* Unwinding in the park
* Getting a haircut in Japan

* QB House – 1,000 円 haircut
* Had to fix my own hair, ha!

* Working in Ariake

* The Dream Bridge (picture below)
* Building numbers in Tokyo – why they exist

* Humbleness, humility, and humanity

* Still learning about myself
* Placement tests

* Random conversation with fellow park-walker
* Answering Matt’s question on the JR Rail Pass
* Random sounds and babble for the last 5 minutes on my way home

* I must have a nice ass
* National health insurance
* Japanesepod101.com
* It’s Friday night!



The Dream Bridge in Ariake
]]> Christopher S. clean 20:24 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 6 – The Wet Episode https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/04/167/ Wed, 04 Apr 2007 13:32:09 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/04/04/167/ Special guests, raw chicken, bicycle skills and more. Get it all in this episode. Tonight Alex (my trackmate, roommate, and friend) takes a seat at the mic with me for a dualing discussion on the finer points of Japan. As we dry off from the monsoon that seemed to appear from out of nowhere earlier … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/04/167/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 6 – The Wet Episode"</span></a></p> Special guests, raw chicken, bicycle skills and more. Get it all in this episode. Tonight Alex (my trackmate, roommate, and friend) takes a seat at the mic with me for a dualing discussion on the finer points of Japan. Show notes and references:

* Intro – Never again will I buy a cheap Chinese umbrella
* Update

* Moved to Sumida-ku
* Hanami last weekend
* Meiji-jingu video is up
* Bicycle Sidewalk – check it out
* Alien registration complete!

* Foreign Exchange
* Japanese Bicycle Skeeels
* Eating Raw Chicken

* Japan is famous for three types of chickens, Alex explains


* 生 -> usually means raw
* 刺 -> but this does too apparently, so watch out!


*

* Things You Will Only See in Japan

* Cute vs. Cool
* Buta-kun
*

* Outro and Thanks

]]> Christopher S. clean 34:18 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 5 – Meiji-jingu Video https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/04/166/ Sun, 01 Apr 2007 14:24:49 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/04/01/166/ I’m constantly posting from the past it seems. This weekend was busy with hanami activities (and subsequent recovery). I will be posting some video and audio from that as well. However, as promised, here is the Meiji-jingu video from last week. I shot most of this footage from that day. Meiji-jingu is my favorite place … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/04/166/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 5 – Meiji-jingu Video"</span></a></p> I’m constantly posting from the past it seems. This weekend was busy with hanami activities (and subsequent recovery). I will be posting some video and audio from that as well. However, as promised, here is the Meiji-jingu video from last week. I’m constantly posting from the past it seems. This weekend was busy with hanami activities (and subsequent recovery). I will be posting some video and audio from that as well. However, as promised, here is the Meiji-jingu video from last week.
I shot most of this footage from that day. Meiji-jingu is my favorite place to visit when I need some peace and quiet. Right in the heart of Yoyogi park, it never ceases to have a calming and quieting effect on me. Enjoy!
Alternative video link (Google Video)
]]> Christopher S. clean 2:20 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 4 – Hello from Tokyo Tower! https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/03/164/ Fri, 30 Mar 2007 14:53:03 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/03/30/164/ First day back with Internet means instant episode for you all, better late than never. I recorded this episode earlier in the week, Tuesday evening to be exact just before my trackmate Alex arrived in Japan. The next few days were spent trouncing around Tokyo looking for basics like bedding, soap, and food. Enjoy this … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/03/164/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 4 – Hello from Tokyo Tower!"</span></a></p> First day back with Internet means instant episode for you all, better late than never. I recorded this episode earlier in the week, Tuesday evening to be exact just before my trackmate Alex arrived in Japan.
First day back with Internet means instant episode for you all, better late than never. I recorded this episode earlier in the week, Tuesday evening to be exact just before my trackmate Alex arrived in Japan. The next few days were spent trouncing around Tokyo looking for basics like bedding, soap, and food. Enjoy this pre-move in episode ne! ^_^
Show Notes

* Long day (late post, will be in the process of moving)
* View from the Tokyo Prince Hotel
* Jisa-boke and how I get over it
* Tokyo Tower / Eiffel Tower
* Moving and dragging my belongs through the streets of Tokyo
* Using GTD and Vitalist
* Cool friends help the Tokyo-transition
* Only in Japan – Egg on pizza is truly incredible (http://www.flickr.com/photos/heavylift/434951327/)
* Small World – Strange people confluences
* Terrance’s Matsuri Post on KobeBeef
* Upcoming Video Posts

]]> Christopher S. clean 15:38 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 3 – Kerpow!! https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/03/161/ Sat, 24 Mar 2007 00:18:15 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/03/23/161/ Today’s episode is brought to you by this Dr. Pepper Can and the Pepper Chix (http://www.drpp.jp). Woah! This episode covers a little bit about the website and how to subscribe to the audio versions of this podcast, my trials and tribulations at an Internet cafe in Kamata trying to get some connectivity, Japanese Jehovah Witnesses, … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/03/161/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 3 – Kerpow!!"</span></a></p> Today’s episode is brought to you by this Dr. Pepper Can and the Pepper Chix (http://www.drpp.jp). Woah! This episode covers a little bit about the website and how to subscribe to the audio versions of this podcast, http://www.drpp.jp). Woah!
This episode covers a little bit about the website and how to subscribe to the audio versions of this podcast, my trials and tribulations at an Internet cafe in Kamata trying to get some connectivity, Japanese Jehovah Witnesses, the best damn spicy cheeseburger I’ve ever had, a crazy motorcycle helmet, and more.
Also, I divulge a little bit of my Japanese study plan which seems to be working out. Remembering the Kanji, James Heisig, I couldn’t remember the name of this book during the episode.
Don’t know who Oruchuban Ebichu is? Lest your curiosity kill you, find out in this episode.
And of course, a quick roundup of some of the best Japanese living podcasts around. Herro Flom Japan, Kobe Beef Show, Tokyo Calling, and A Year in Japan. Check these out.
]]> Christopher S. clean 30:48 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 2 – The Next Few Days https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/03/159/ Thu, 22 Mar 2007 08:12:24 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/03/22/159/ Hey everyone, sorry for the hurried posting but I’m currently at an Internet cafe and my access to the Internet has been very very sporadic to say the least. I banged out another episode yesterday and kept it aging for a day until I get could some access. So here you go, enjoy. In this … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/03/159/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 2 – The Next Few Days"</span></a></p> Hey everyone, sorry for the hurried posting but I’m currently at an Internet cafe and my access to the Internet has been very very sporadic to say the least. I banged out another episode yesterday and kept it aging for a day until I get could some acce... In this episode:

* Intro music – “Hologram Jesus” by Pthalo
* Lack of updates – Internet connectivity is down, down I tell you
* Alien Registration Story
* Nintendo DS Kanji Dictionary rules!!
* Found an apartment from TokyoRent.com – yay!
* Excite Train Transfer Application – http://www.excite.co.jp/transfer/
* Shopping in Kawasaki
* Liquor Store Funniness
* Fish Market TV Show Interruption

And as always, more to come soon. Cheers!
]]> Christopher S. clean 24:26 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Episode 1 – Welcome to Japan https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/03/157/ Sun, 18 Mar 2007 13:58:39 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/03/18/157/ Day one in Japan and the first official podcast episode is released. Its nearing the completion of my first full day in Japan, and I’m doing everything I can not to go to sleep while I fight this sore throat. ( photo by Sachama  [original] CC license) Brief show notes in paragraph form: In the … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/03/157/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Episode 1 – Welcome to Japan"</span></a></p> Day one in Japan and the first official podcast episode is released. Its nearing the completion of my first full day in Japan, and I’m doing everything I can not to go to sleep while I fight this sore throat.
( photo by Sachama  [original] CC license)
Brief show notes in paragraph form: In the first few hours I randomly met someone who knows a mutual friend of mine, called the Japanese fire department accidentally while trying to place a phone call to a friend, ate cow tongue at a yaki-niku place, and made a few new friends at a tachinomi bar (picture included). Hear about it all in audio form along with my jet-lagged speaking full of uhhs and umms.
]]> Christopher S. clean 11:26 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography T-minus 25 days https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/02/150/ Thu, 22 Feb 2007 23:58:49 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/02/22/150/ A new audio podcast for you all. I ramble on my way to school and talk about how I should talk about this stuff more. Sound redundant? It is. I think this is more for me to get in the habit and work out my audio-workflow before hitting the ground for real in Japan. Sorry … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/02/150/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "T-minus 25 days"</span></a></p> A new audio podcast for you all. I ramble on my way to school and talk about how I should talk about this stuff more. Sound redundant? It is. I think this is more for me to get in the habit and work out my audio-workflow before hitting the ground for r... Sorry if the audio is a bit wonky. I didn’t even think it would be usable until I listened with headphones today. But alas, it seemed salvageable. So here is Monday’s podcast, today!
Show notes

* T-Minus 25 Days
* Yay, podcasting starts again
* Japanese class update

* Mid-term
* Writing recognition vs. listening comprehension

* Ready for Japan

* Visa is in
* Working in Japan
* Apartment search update

* Weekend with girlfriend
* How I’m studying Japanese

* iFlash

* http://www.loopware.com/iflash/

* Japanese for the Western Brain

* http://kimallen.sheepdogdesign.net/Japanese/index.html

* del.icio.us links

* http://del.icio.us/heavylift/japanese



]]> Christopher S. clean 12:48 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography Finding an Apartment in Japan https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/01/126/ Sun, 21 Jan 2007 23:17:50 +0000 https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/01/21/126/ Today’s post comes in video podcast form. I explore making finding an apartment in Tokyo easier with Google Earth and Rikaichan. I take a look at the logistical aspect of looking in an unfamiliar area and explore the use of a Firefox plug-in that makes life easier when reading Japanese. Show Notes: Finding an Apartment … <p class="link-more"><a href="https://www.findingjapan.com/2007/01/126/" class="more-link">Continue reading<span class="screen-reader-text"> "Finding an Apartment in Japan"</span></a></p> Today’s post comes in video podcast form. I explore making finding an apartment in Tokyo easier with Google Earth and Rikaichan. I take a look at the logistical aspect of looking in an unfamiliar area and explore the use of a Firefox plug-in that makes...


Show Notes:

* Finding an Apartment

* Google Earth


* Familiarity

* Location Awareness

* Wards of Tokyo

* Public Transit
* Needed Places

* Translation

* Searching in English / Japanese
* Rikaichan
* Tricks

* Getting Started

* Apartment Links
* Google Overlay Links


* Music Credits:

* Melissa Welch – Sleep-wake [cam076] Camomille Music CC License


]]> Christopher S. clean 9:20 christopher@findingjapan.com (Christopher S.)japan,japanese,business,tokyo,mba,language,photography