In this episode of The Samurai Way Podcast, I sit down with Saori Okada, a UKIH registered health coach, Japanese calligraphy artist, and the founder of Mogami Wellness in London. Saori grew up in Tokyo, built a corporate career in New York, and later returned to her Japanese roots after years of struggling with eating disorders and perfectionism. What stood out to me most was her insight that healing is not about fixing our relationship with food but about rebuilding our relationship with ourselves. Together, we explore what Ikigai truly means beyond the Venn diagram. We talk about finding meaning in everyday moments rather than chasing achievements, and how Japanese concepts like itadakimasu invite mindfulness and gratitude into something as simple as a meal. We also dive into Wabi Sabi, embracing imperfection and change, and how Kintsugi teaches us that our cracks and challenges can become our greatest sources of beauty and strength. Saori shares how stillness, discipline, and creating space in our lives are essential practices in a fast, overstimulated world. Throughout the conversation, I reflect on my own experiences, Japanese heritage, resilience, and the values of respect, service, and perseverance that continue to shape my work and life. Saori also shares insights from her upcoming book, The Wisdom of Ancient Japan: Timeless Lessons to Live By, a collection of sixty Japanese concepts designed to support mind, body, and soul. This episode is a reminder that purpose is not something we chase. It is something we live, one moment at a time. Connect with Saori Okada Website: https://www.mogamiwellness.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mogami_wellness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saori-okada/ Book: The Wisdom of Ancient Japan: Timeless Lessons to Live By Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I sit down with Jared Bendifallah, a peer support group facilitator, speaker, and the creator of The Five Building Blocks of Recovery podcast. Jared has led over six hundred support groups with NAMI West Los Angeles and has spoken to countless middle school and high school students, helping to break the silence around mental health. Our conversation is heartfelt, honest, and deeply meaningful. We explore how the Japanese philosophies of Kaizen, continuous improvement, and Ikigai, what gives life meaning and fulfillment, can support the mental health recovery journey. Jared shares how focusing on small, steady progress helps people trust the recovery process, even when the path feels long and uncertain. We also talk about why true recovery is not just about stabilizing symptoms, but about finding purpose, direction, and something meaningful to live for. Jared opens up about his own journey, the years he spent without direction, and how the absence of Ikigai contributed to his mental health crisis. Through his work with NAMI, public speaking, and podcasting, he has found a sense of calling in helping others heal, grow, and rediscover hope. This episode is about resilience, compassion, and the courage to keep going one step at a time. It reflects the Samurai spirit of Ganbaru, never giving up, even when the road is difficult. If you or someone you love is navigating recovery, searching for purpose, or simply needs encouragement, I hope this conversation offers insight, comfort, and hope. Thank you for walking this path with me. LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jared-bendifallah/ Public Speaking and Resourceshttps://thefivebuildingblocksofrecovery.com Five Building Blocks of Recovery Podcast Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/63BOX5Rl5pF5kC24YV5Y4U Connect with Jared Bendifallah Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I had the opportunity to have a heartfelt conversation with Ido Kalev, former senior commander in Israeli intelligence and aviation security, had over 30 years of international experience.  Ido shared how his years of military service leading operations in six countries to rebuilding lives after trauma, prepared him to share insights in resilience, leadership under pressure, and emotional intelligence.  He spoke about Kintsugi the Japanese art of  repairing broken pottery to emerge a finished product even more beautiful, and Ganbaru, the principle of never giving up. We also spoke about Hanukah, courage, resilience, and faith.  It also happened to be recorded on the second day of Hanukah.  The principles of courage, Ganbaru, and Kintsugi reminded me of Chiune Sugihara, the Japanese diplomat during WWII, who defied the Japanese government to write transit visas for Jewish refugees seeking escape.   You will want to check out Ido's recent book, "The Spy Who Led Me:   https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FMXZRMHZ?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title for more information.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From the peaceful paths of Okayama Korakuen Garden to the rich seasonal flavors that fill every market and meal, this season invites us to experience Japan with all of our senses. The gardens here showcase harmony and balance, and their changing colors remind us of the cycles of life and the quiet strength found in transition. Autumn in Japan is also a season of nourishment. The foods of fall carry stories of heritage and gratitude, from sweet potatoes to chestnuts and warm comforting dishes enjoyed by families for generations. These traditions are beautifully highlighted in the articles and videos linked below, offering a glimpse into Japan's culinary heart. This week on The Samurai Way podcast, the episode Taste and Tranquility explores the depth of this season and the meaningful lessons it offers. Autumn teaches us to savor, reflect, and reconnect with what brings us joy and purpose. As I continue my journey through Japan, I am reminded that every trip is also an inner journey. The landscapes, stories, and flavors of autumn invite us to be fully present, to honor the moment we are in, and to carry these lessons back into our lives with intention. I look forward to sharing more photos, videos, and insights from this beautiful season in Japan. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Samurai Way, I have the honor of welcoming Ahmet Bozer, a global business leader and former President of Coca-Cola International. With a remarkable 30-year career leading teams across Eurasia and Africa, Ahmet distills decades of insight and experience into his new book, Soulgery: A Lifelong Guide to Unlocking Your Potential, a powerful framework that blends Eastern philosophy with Western practice to elevate leadership, resilience, and personal growth. In our conversation, Ahmet and I explore the timeless Japanese principles I teach, including Kaizen, the practice of continuous improvement, and Bushido, the way of the warrior. We discuss the balance between individual excellence and collective harmony and how these teachings, drawn from both ancient wisdom and modern business, shape not only stronger leaders but better human beings. Ahmet brings a depth of clarity and purpose that aligns beautifully with the heart of The Samurai Way. To learn more about his work and his book Soulgery, I invite you to visit his website: Links: https://soulgery.com/ https://soulgery.com/book-page/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this heartfelt episode of The Samurai Way, I'm sitting down with Carol Banens, a grief educator, grief to gratitude coach, and author who has turned her own loss into a journey of hope and purpose. After losing her husband, Carol discovered healing through creative writing and poetry, drawing inspiration from the Japanese art of Kintsugi showing us how even broken pieces can be made beautiful again. We talk about how grief intersects with samurai wisdom, including the courage to keep going, the honesty to acknowledge your emotions, and the compassion to give yourself grace. Carol shares powerful poems from her work and reminds us that healing is a journey of patience, love, and small acts of bravery every single day. Some of the things we explore in this episode: • The physical and emotional impact of grief and why rest is essential • How our nervous system and sense of safety shape the healing process • Why community is so important and how connection supports recovery • The power of allowing uncomfortable emotions instead of pushing them away • How love, memory, and courage can come together to help us move forward Carol is also starting a new community for women navigating grief a safe, supportive space to be heard, to learn, and to heal together. If you'd like to connect with Carol, learn more about her programs, or grab her book, visit www.carolbanens.com. Her book Kintsugi Your Heart The Art of Living with Grief is a beautiful guide for anyone walking the path of loss. This episode is a reminder that grief changes us, but it doesn't have to break us. Even in the cracks, there is beauty, strength, and a way forward. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Samurai Way, I am joined by international master coach, speaker, and transformational trainer Patrick Dean. Patrick has spent more than thirty five years guiding over forty thousand leaders around the world. His work blends the timeless wisdom of the samurai with modern leadership tools that help people step into clarity, intention, and their highest potential. Our conversation reminded me why these principles still matter so deeply today. We explore the power of commitment, clarity, and keeping your word, especially the promises you make to yourself. Patrick shares how his experiences in Japan shaped his understanding of leadership and why the samurai believed that true strength begins from within. Together, we reflect on ichi go ichi e, the reminder that every moment is unique and deserving of our full attention. We talk about the inner journey, the discipline of presence, and the quiet strength that comes from choosing to live the moment you are in rather than chase the next one. Patrick also offers meaningful insights into leadership, resilience, and healing, showing how Bushido principles can guide us through modern challenges with courage and compassion. If you are seeking personal growth, grounded purpose, or inspiration to never give up, this conversation will encourage you to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with what truly matters. Patrick brings the samurai path to life in a way that is both practical and deeply human. You can learn more about Patrick at patrickdeancoaching.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Samurai Way, I sit down with Akiko Yoshii Johnson, a second-degree black belt in Shotokan Karate, personal trainer, and lifelong martial artist. Born and raised near Tokyo, Akiko has spent most of her adult life in North America, blending Japanese discipline, respect, and mindfulness with Western openness and creativity. Together, Lori and Akiko explore the Dojo Kun, the five principles of martial arts that guide not only training but daily life from humility and perseverance to respect and self-mastery. Akiko shares how her martial arts journey has evolved from strength to flow, and how aging gracefully through mindful movement has become her lifelong pursuit. This conversation offers a powerful reflection on Bushido, resilience, and the art of living with purpose — a true embodiment of the Samurai Way. Connect with Akiko Yoshii Johnson: https://www.ayjohnson.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Samurai Way, I sits down with Brian Fried, an inventor, entrepreneur, and mentor known as The Inventor Coach. With 15 issued patents and over 19 years of experience, Brian has turned everyday frustrations into innovative products, from space-saving egg trays to clever paper towel solutions. As founder of the National Inventor Club and creator of the Inventor Smart Community, Brian has built platforms where inventors can learn, collaborate, and bring their ideas to life. He shares how the Japanese principle of Kaizen—constant improvement—guides his work and why true innovation must serve others, aligning closely with the spirit of Ikigai. Brian is also the author of three books, including his latest, How to Make Money with Your Invention Idea. Learn more at brianfried.com and nationalinventorclub.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Diana Fritz — a true embodiment of resilience. After surviving a rare cancer and losing her eye, Diana transformed her pain into purpose. Through the lens of Kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold, she discovered that our cracks are not flaws to hide but symbols of strength, healing, and beauty. With over 25 years of leadership experience in executive management, human resources, operations, and technology, Diana now helps others rebuild with courage and authenticity. As a member of the Maxwell Leadership Executive Program and a certified DISC consultant, she empowers individuals and organizations to lead with heart, clarity, and resilience. In our conversation, we explore how adversity can become the forge for growth, how to embrace imperfections as part of your strength, and how service to others helps us heal. 🌐 Connect with Diana Fritz on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-fritz-b032064/ 🎧 Tune in now — and please like, follow, subscribe, share, and leave a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, or YouTube so others can discover this message of resilience and renewal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode of The Samurai Way, I sit down with Cheryl Wright, bestselling author, speaker, and empowerment coach, to explore how Japanese principles can guide us through the challenges of toxic relationships. Cheryl shares her personal journey of breaking free from narcissistic abuse and how her book Swimming with Alligators: Surviving, Thriving, and Resolving the Narcissistic Relationship Crisis became a beacon of hope for countless others. Drawing from Bushido's values of honor and truth, Ganbaru's perseverance, and Ikigai's purpose, Cheryl reveals how healing is not just survival but transformation. Together, we also reflect on the art of Kintsugi—mending the broken pieces of life with gold as a metaphor for embracing scars and discovering renewed strength. Learn more about Cheryl's work: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clwright/ Get her book: Swimming with Alligators Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Samurai Way, Lori Tsugawa speaks with Dr. Pamela J. Pine has dedicated 25 years to raising global awareness about, preventing, treating, and ending child sexual abuse (CSA) and other adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). As Founder and Director of Stop the Silence® – A Department of the Institute on Violence, Abuse and Trauma (IVAT), she uses advocacy, education, and training integrated with creativity to protect children and support survivors in healing. In this episode of The Samurai Way, Pamela and I explore how Ikigai and Ganbaru sustain her mission and why protecting children is a responsibility we all share. 🌐 Learn more: Stop the Silence / IVAT: ivatcenters.org Contact Pamela Pine: pamela.p@ivatcenters.org Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Samurai Way Podcast, Lori Tsugawa welcomes Bob Reish, an executive business coach, keynote speaker, and founder of the Caveat Institute. Known for cutting through the noise with bold wisdom and no-fluff coaching, Bob equips leaders with the tools, truth, and accountability they need to lead with clarity, consistency, and conviction. Together, Lori and Bob explore how Samurai principles like Bushido, respect, and discipline apply to leadership today. From self-talk and mindset, to legacy-driven leadership, Bob shares wisdom on adapting, influencing, and managing in both life and business. Connect with Bob Reish: Website: Caveat Institute Podcast: Here's the Caveat LinkedIn: Robert (Bob) Reish on LinkedIn Listen now and discover how timeless principles can transform your leadership and legacy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Samurai Way, Lori Tsugawa sits down with Marques Ogden — former NFL offensive lineman, inspirational keynote speaker, and business leader. Raised in Washington, DC, Marques overcame early challenges, built a career in the NFL, and now uses his platform to teach ambition, drive, discipline, and authenticity as keys to lasting success. Marques shares his story of resilience, the lessons he carried from the football field into business, and why authenticity is the true superpower that creates greatness. His wisdom will inspire you to be your own CEO, focus on what you can control, and never stop growing. 🔗 Connect with Marques Ogden: Website: https://marquesogden.com Book Sleepless Nights: The NFL: A Business and Family → Amazon Link Podcast Get Authentic with Marques Ogden → Apple Podcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this moving episode of The Samurai Way, host Lori Tsugawa welcomes Laura Elliott, USA Today, Kirkus-starred, and Wall Street Journal bestselling ghostwriter and screenwriter. Laura is the author of Dear Laura: A Lost Chapter of World War II, a deeply personal book that uncovers the remarkable story of her father's survival as a prisoner of war in Japan and Indonesia. Through hidden letters, decades of research, and her own journey as a daughter seeking to understand her father's past, Laura brings to life a story of resilience, ingenuity, and faith against impossible odds. Her father endured starvation, brutality, and loss, yet he never gave up hope. Guided by values that echo the Code of Bushido—integrity, honor, courage, morality, and forgiveness—he left behind a legacy of strength that continues to inspire. In their conversation, Lori and Laura explore not only the historical details of WWII but also the universal lessons of resilience, the importance of family legacies, and how forgiveness can heal even the deepest wounds of war. 📖 Learn more about Laura Elliott and her work: lauraelliottauthor.com 📚 Get her book Dear Laura: A Lost Chapter of World War II: Amazon Link Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this new episode of The Samurai Way, Lori Tsugawa sits down with Paul Kirch, entrepreneur, sales coach, and founder of BOSS Academy. Paul's journey began in a small town in Nebraska, where he dreamed of becoming his own boss. From working at Gallup to leading sales teams, launching his own business, and even hosting a Top 10 Business Podcast, Paul's story is one of resilience, courage, and transformation. Paul opens up about the challenges of entrepreneurship, the pain of divorce, and how humor and improv became a surprising source of healing. At the heart of his work is the Askology Method, a framework built on the power of asking the right questions: leading, investigative, empathetic, and instigating, to create authentic conversations in business and life. Through the lens of Bushido values like integrity, honor, and loyalty, Paul shares how he helps entrepreneurs and sales professionals move beyond old-school selling tactics and instead build trust, connection, and meaningful success. This episode is a powerful reminder that business, like life, is about doing the right thing, always. 📌 Connect with Paul Kirch 🌐 Website: paulkirch.com 💼 Boss Academy Community: bossacademy.com 📚 Learn more about the Askology Method (eBook available through Paul) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We have the honor of interviewing Frank King, who has given 13 TEDx Talks about Mental Health. As a comedian, he wrote for the Jay Leno show for 20 years! You won't want to miss this episode of "The Samurai Way, information below. Frank is a Guinness World Record holder for TEDx Talks (13 and counting) and spent 20 years writing for The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. He has shared the stage with comedy legends like Jerry Seinfeld, Adam Sandler, Ellen DeGeneres, and Jeff Foxworthy. But behind the laughter lies Frank's raw and honest truth: a lifetime of depression, suicidality, and survival. He speaks openly about his family's history of suicide, his own close calls, and how he turned his pain into purpose by using comedy to save lives. Through his talks, books (Guts, Grit & The Grind series), and advocacy, Frank brings a vital message: mental health matters, suicide can be prevented, and humor can heal. His mission is simple yet profound — to save a life a day. 📌 Connect and Learn More 🌐 Frank's Website: mentalhealthcomedian.com 🧠 National Alliance on Mental Illness: nami.org 📚 Free Audiobook: Guts, Grit & The Grind (Vol. 1) available on Frank's site 📺 Watch his TEDx Talks: Frank King TEDx Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Samurai Way, I sit down with Dennis C. Miller, a nationally recognized expert in nonprofit leadership and board governance, who embodies the Japanese principle of Ganbaru — never giving up. Dennis's journey is nothing short of inspiring. From a childhood marked by hardship and rejection to working as a hotel houseman, he eventually rose to become the CEO of major healthcare organizations, the founder of an executive search firm, and a trusted coach to nonprofit leaders. Along the way, he discovered the power of resilience, purpose, and self-belief. Together, we explore how Dennis transformed adversity into strength, the role of Ganbaru in his success, and why true fulfillment comes from giving back. His story is a powerful reminder that no matter how many times life knocks us down, we can always rise again. 📚 Learn more about Dennis's story in his autobiography From Mopping Floors to CEO: From Hopelessness and Failure to Happiness and Success: Get the book on Amazon 📩 Connect with Dennis directly: Website: www.denniscmiller.com Email: dennis@denniscmiller.com Tune in and discover how Ganbaru can guide you through your own challenges and help you live with greater courage and resilience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Samurai Way, I explore the timeless Code of Bushido, the moral compass of the samurai, and ask: what if it is the cure for many of today's struggles? Through humor, story, and reflection, I show how each of the seven virtues: courage, integrity, compassion, respect, honesty, honor, and loyalty, can guide us through the noise and uncertainty of modern life. From online conflicts to personal challenges, Bushido offers wisdom we can still use every day. Join me as we dust off ancient wisdom and see how it still shines in 2025. Connect with Lori Tsugawa: 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/loritsugawa/ 🌐 Website: https://www.loriwhaley.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Samurai Way, I sit down with David Brier, a branding visionary whose work has transformed companies across the globe. What begins as a conversation about logos and marketing quickly unfolds into something much deeper, a journey into the art of differentiation, the courage to stand apart, and the Kaizen spirit of constant improvement. David shares remarkable stories, from reimagining a small dog food company to making bagged ice unforgettable, showing how the smallest details can elevate an entire brand and a life. Together, we explore how creativity, purpose, and joy can co-exist with prosperity and impact. This is more than a branding conversation. It is a reminder that in business and in life, different is better than better. Connect with David Brier: 🔗 Website: https://www.risingabovethenoise.com 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidbrier/ 📘 Book: Rich Brand Poor Brand Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices