Lance E. Lee Podcast from Tokyo

In Oshkosh, Wisconsin, the “Mecca of Aviation," 13-year-old Justin J. Boyson spent weekends alongside members of the EAA constructing 2-seater airplanes. During his junior year, he achieved a remarkable milestone: being appointed a congressional page under Newt Gingrich. This role granted him exclusive access to the Capitol and an up-close view of the political arena. Justin's enthusiasm for inter...

Ray Tsuchiyama's interview was a heartfelt tribute to his late father, a Japanese-American military veteran, and a deep exploration of his family's heritage and life journey. His paternal grandparents, from Kumamoto, embarked on their journey to Maui in 1899, while his maternal roots trace back to Sakhalin off of Hokkaido. Raised in Honolulu's culturally diverse Kalihi neighborhood, Ray cultivated...

Chef Sohan Ahluwalia, a native of New Orleans, has tantalized the taste buds of many food enthusiasts through his pioneering restaurant on Bourbon Street in Roppongi, Tokyo. Today, he joins us to share life stories and offer a glimpse into Bistro Bourbon Street, a hidden gem nestled in Goa, India. Sohan's culinary journey began in childhood, and after earning his culinary degree, he embarked on a...

While inherently reserved, Michael McCoy graciously offered insights into his remarkable journey from Ireland to Japan. He has successfully established himself as a consultant and coach for global executives and left an indelible mark as Nikkei's acclaimed change agent within a multinational corporation. His unique skill set was pivotal in driving a profoundly positive transformation that resonate...

Renowned saxophonist Jim Butler aspires to join the ranks of the world's greatest musicians, drawn by their profound spiritual connection to the divine. He views musical expression as a potent and potentially transformative spiritual journey that can be sublime and perilous without the right grounding. Keep October 8th marked on your calendars for Jim's concert at Satin Doll (Roppongi), where he w...

The return of the iconic radio personality, Kamasami Kong...!! In a totally laidback conversation, we delved into his recent MSC cruise experience, the launch of a new internet radio show on Heart FM Nagoya, his successful city pop music albums from the 1980s with AVEX, and shared many moments of laughter. Kamasami, a true DJ extraordinaire for life, captivates with his exceptional storytelling, h...

The benefits of being a parent become much more profound when you have the opportunity to introduce your kids to the world and society outside of just family and school. Toshiya Kobayashi has fond memories of attending business lunches and dinners with his father, where he learned valuable social skills and business etiquette. His educational journey continues at the NYU Gallatin School of Individ...

Chuck Wilson's life epitomizes perseverance, resilience, community service, and impacting lives. Beginning with successfully running the Clark Hatch Fitness Center, he marked his entry into Japan's fitness industry. He later excelled in Japan's entertainment sector, gaining popularity as a gaijin talent. Transitioning to an independent entrepreneur, he established Chuck Wilson Enterprise, building...

With a Waseda University law degree and an MBA from Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management, Sadashi Suzuki emerged as a top candidate for the TAC board, and as a governor, he adeptly tackled various club issues with a discerning mindset. With a solid background in Japan’s pharmaceutical industry and a diverse portfolio in the US healthcare sector, he understands the significant hurdl...

In his second appearance on the LEL podcast, Dylan Monaghan enlightens us about the intricacies of the brain and the significance of assuming control over our brain to bring about constructive shifts in our behavior. His passion for helping others is evident through his development of the innovative concept of "Single Threading," a book that he diligently crafted, dedicating five hours daily for t...

Nofil Iqbal, the COO of Profound Vision K.K., possesses a wealth of experience in securities, banking, tax, and asset management. Drawing from his extensive career, he comprehensively understands the financial and corporate domains. Over the course of three years, he diligently assembled a skilled team of passionate individuals dedicated to supplying IT engineers to Japanese corporations. Their ob...

In today's video episode, join us as we converse with the dynamic founder and creator of The Pink Cow Restaurant & Art Bar. Not only is she the mind behind a unique space that marries the nuances of art with tantalizing gastronomy, but she's also a visionary who sees the beauty in bridging the worlds of science, technology, music, and art. The Pink Cow is not just a mere restaurant. Picture a...

Cheri Saburi recounts stories from her upbringing in a supportive family and her journey into elementary education, sparked by her fondness for interacting with children as a summer camp counselor. After a successful 12-year run leading a company that specialized in educational toys, she went on to earn a second master's degree in mediated learning. Cheri is fully aware of the evolving responsibil...

Meeting the Saburis unexpectedly at TAC was truly delightful! Eugene Saburi, who had a prosperous career at Microsoft and Adobe before establishing a thriving startup advisory firm, shared enjoyable anecdotes about his time as Bill Gates' "bag holder," briefing him during visits to Tokyo. Now, leveraging his extensive 30-year background and network, Eugene aids startups and private equity firms in...

Marc Fuoti, a thriving Tokyoite, embodies the essence of a corporate man turned entrepreneur in Japan's business world, utilizing his experience and network. Raised in a close-knit Italian-American family, as a high schooler, he deftly balanced academics, sports, and social life. Armed with a psychology degree from Rutgers University, Marc worked in healthcare before founding Holistic Guide and pu...

Alex Easley has successfully navigated Japan's show business for many years as a foreigner with his contributions to entertainment. Notable collaborations with renowned designer Kansai Yamamoto and a role in the acclaimed Japanese film "Ningen no Shomei" mark the highlights. His fondest memories stem from being a ring announcer for Japan's shoot boxing and touring extensively throughout Japan. Out...

Peter Ferral, a retired sergeant major in the U.S. Marine Corps, proudly embraces it as “a lifestyle, not a job.” His Marine Corps journey brims with remarkable moments, including serving as an honor guard at the White House and developing a love for Japan during his WestPAC deployment. Fond memories of family road trips and shared pride in the Marine life with his father and brothers hold a speci...

It was a great pleasure and honor to finally "get to know" Karen Anton Hill, author of the acclaimed memoir "The View From Breast Pocket Mountain," despite our decades-spanning acquaintance. Karen’s life stories are inspiring: being raised by her father, aspiring to be a professional dancer, securing a scholarship to Martha Graham School, the influence of a fine arts teacher in high school, embark...

Adam Fulford's exposure to various cultures began during his youth when he interacted with people visiting his home. Arriving in Japan as an English teacher in 1981, he adapted quite smoothly and soon found comfort in the suburbs of Kamakura. Adam started working with NHK, following in his older brother's footsteps, who had worked there years before on attachment from the BBC. Adam established his...

Erik Almadrones, an Executive Fight Night contender, took an intriguing 10-year detour as a chef before pursuing an MBA and joining a boutique consulting firm. Now, he holds a prominent position at EY, focusing on consulting and analytics. He collaborated with renowned chefs, including Ina Garten (the Barefoot Contessa) and Joyce Goldstein, during his culinary journey. Erik's experience in public...

Ruth Marie Jarman has a rich international background, growing up in Hawaii and experiencing various cultures. After obtaining her BA in International Relations from Tufts University, she ventured to Japan, joining Recruit Co., Ltd in 1988. Later, she was invited by her mentor, Mr. Ezoe, to join his new venture at Space Design Inc., one of the pioneers in Tokyo's serviced apartments. Ruth now runs...

Leila Chiddick, a first-time visitor to Tokyo from UCLA and the daughter of a longtime friend, discusses her upbringing, education, perspectives on diversity and microaggressions, her decision to attend UCLA, the application procedure, and the advantages of therapy. She even interviewed me as part of her business leadership program presentation! Apart from her academic pursuits, Leila is an equest...

At 25, Sandul Vinsuka is determined to assist foreigners in Tokyo striving to succeed by bridging the gap between them and those who have already achieved their goals here. Inspired by the LEL podcast, Sandul reached out to me for a sit-down, which resulted in a delightful episode! Sandul's Channel https://www.youtube.com/@Sandulvinsuka

At 86 years old, Shizuo Daigoh (Daigoh-san), one of TAC's longest-standing members (52 years and 7 months), appears incredibly impressive! With a football background at Keio University, Daigoh-san maintains his sharpness and fitness through regular workouts. A true Tokyo native, he comes from a lineage of Japanese bushi (warriors) through his parents. He has extensive expertise in shipping brokera...

Kyoko Takayama, a communications specialist, and keynote speaker trainer, brings her passion and focus to assisting the Japanese business community in Tokyo. Kyoko is based in Barcelona, where she has resided for 17 years. She is equipped with a master's degree in business communications and public relations, trilingual abilities in English, Japanese, and Spanish, and a unique understanding of cul...