*“Yesterday, I Went to Mars ♡”*

In this episode, I share the unforgettable experience of visiting GOD TRADING, a unique Indian jewelry store in Ebisu, Tokyo. I didn’t plan on buying anything—but after a conversation with the owner, Mr. Imai, I walked out with a beautiful piece I never expected to purchase. Why? Because it wasn’t just about the product—it was the story. Mr. Imai doesn’t sell jewelry; he shares the soul behind eac...

Ever wonder what makes someone truly captivating? In this episode, we explore the unexpected connection between the world of comedy and the art of customer service. Inspired by the brilliance of comedians like Gekidan Hitori and a surprising insight from Ken Watabe of Unjash, we delve into the power of listening. Watabe's wisdom – that popularity comes not from telling jokes, but from making o...

In this episode, we dive into the surprising world of global price differences, sparked by a trip to Australia where 800 yen barely buys a coffee, while in Ginza, 850 yen gets you a full ramen lunch. Running an eyewear shop in Ginza, I’m seeing more international customers snapping up glasses, turning price gaps into opportunities. We’ll explore how to seize these moments, step out of the daily gr...

Once symbols of elite status, gold and black credit cards have gradually shifted into everyday tools. In this episode, I take a personal look at how premium cards—once defined by exclusivity and luxury perks—have become more accessible and utility-driven. From upgrading to PayPay Gold for higher rewards, to applying for a “black” Rakuten card just to regain downgraded lounge access, I explore how...

In this episode, I share a surprising personal experience with De'Longhi's customer service that completely changed how I view product value. What began as a frustrating machine breakdown turned into a powerful reminder: true value isn't about price—it's about how a brand treats you when something goes wrong. From next-day pickup to a flawless repair, their support team delivered n...

In this episode, we dive into a personal story of style and discovery from an optician who finds joy in the little things. He shares how a simple shirt from GU or Uniqlo becomes a canvas for self-expression with just a pair of glasses—round frames for a smart vibe, sporty ones for energy. But the real game-changer? A squash blossom necklace, a piece of Navajo Indian jewelry he recently embraced. F...

In this episode, we explore how the concept of “refactoring”—a term from software development—applies to companies, systems, and even personal growth. Over time, small changes accumulate, creating complexity and rigidity. What once worked begins to stall. So how do we know when it’s time to rebuild, not just patch? And how do we find the courage to break what’s “good enough” in pursuit of somethin...

In this episode, I reflect on my journey—not just across mountains and marathons, but through life itself. From summiting the Seven Summits to completing Ultraman Hawaii, I’ve experienced moments that many see as “goals.” But for me, those achievements were never the point. I’m not a mountaineer. I’m not an athlete. I’m simply a traveler—drawn to the process, the people, and the places along the w...

In this episode, our host shares their current predicament - frantically practicing for a piano duet with their six-year-old son just two weeks before the recital, despite having six months to prepare. They explore the psychology behind procrastination, suggesting it might stem from past successes where last-minute efforts somehow worked out. Psychologists call this the "deadline effect"...

Episode Summary During a flight back from Australia, our host discovers meaningful parenting insights while reading "How to Turn Your Child's Passion into Lifelong Strengths" by the Ochiais. As a parent of four, they connect with the book's core message: nurturing children's natural interests creates stronger outcomes than imposing adult expectations. Key takeaways include: P...

In this episode, I’m back from a week in Australia, reflecting from my glasses shop in Shinjuku. Melbourne’s high prices, Cairns’ chill vibes, and Japan’s surprising affordability—travel reveals what stats can’t. With foreign customers flocking in, I’m seeing Japan through their eyes: dirt cheap compared to Australia or even Hong Kong. It’s not about good or bad—it’s about what’s real. How do I tu...

Podcast Episode Summary In this episode, our traveler shares a serendipitous mishap that turned into an unexpected adventure. After misreading their flight time as "0:45 on April 2nd" (which was actually 12:45 AM after midnight on April 1st), they missed their return flight from Melbourne to Japan. This common traveler's error—confusing 24-hour time notation—led to an impromptu side...

Podcast Episode Summary Join us for this episode where our host shares their recurring travel mishap that turned into an unexpected adventure. Despite carefully checking in online for their 0:45 April 2nd flight from Melbourne, they made a classic traveler's mistake - forgetting that flights departing just after midnight are actually late on the previous day. By the time they casually checked...

In this episode, we dive into a day in Melbourne, inspired by a Jewish proverb: “Every part of the body depends on the mind; the mind depends on the wallet.” Strolling through the city’s stunning streets and savoring a breathtaking sunset at Point Lonsdale Lighthouse, we explore how beauty feeds the mind and, in turn, the body. But there’s a catch—getting there takes a wallet. From tram rides to c...

In this episode, we explore the journey of a self-proclaimed free-spirited traveler who conquered the Seven Summits and Ultraman Hawaii—not for the titles of mountaineer or athlete, but as a way to roam the world. From Everest’s base camp to Melbourne’s open roads, it’s the people, cultures, and chaotic beauty of travel that define their story. Discover how these epic challenges became a means to...

Join me on my first drive along Australia’s iconic Great Ocean Road, starting from Torquay, where the breathtaking coastal scenery evokes memories of Japan’s Atami and Izu. While the majestic Twelve Apostles steal the show—otherworldly and unmissable—the winding familiarity of the route might tempt seasoned Izu drivers to fast-track inland. Beyond the views, it’s the endless, straight stretches th...

Reporting from Melbourne, Makoto shares his surprise when renting a car with no built-in navigation system. He recounts his first time using Apple CarPlay – how easy and surprisingly convenient it was, making him wonder if dedicated sat navs are becoming a thing of the past. Hear about the rental staff's reaction that hinted CarPlay might be the new normal, and Makoto's thoughts on the rap...

Join me today from Melbourne, where parking rules leave me puzzled and memories of a Sydney-to-Kosciuszko trip resurface. We’ll explore a city with no toll booths—just license plates tracked by an invisible system, hinting at a surveillance-driven world. Plus, Melbourne’s high cost of living and pricey parking spark some thoughts. Tune in for a quick dive into urban quirks and quiet wonders!

In this episode, I’m sharing a wild travel mishap from my recent trip to Melbourne via Hong Kong. Picture this: I’m at the airport, three hours early, only to realize I forgot Australia’s ETA—yep, no entry, no boarding pass. Cue a frantic app struggle with passport scans and face recognition for me and my crew of six. Took an hour, and even a “just get me to Hong Kong” plea didn’t work—turns out,...

In this episode, I’m diving into what happens when you push past "It’s too much trouble" or "It won’t matter anyway." Recently, I hosted an event at Takinogawa Flames—a bit outside my comfort zone as an eyeglass shop owner. Spoiler: it was worth it! New faces, fresh vibes, and a ton of unexpected insights. I’ll tie this to two killer quotes: Charlie Chaplin’s "Imagination...

In this episode, we draw surprising parallels between Japan's traditional arts and the modern craft of eyewear. We'll begin with how Oda Nobunaga cleverly elevated tea utensils from everyday items to treasured artworks when he ran short of land to reward his retainers, creating the foundation for what would become the sophisticated tea ceremony culture. Similarly, we'll examine how mas...

In this episode, we dive into Yoshimura's unique approach to composition—creating sounds not meant to be actively listened to, but rather to harmonize with their environments. Despite minimal recognition outside Japan during his lifetime until his passing in 2003, his works like "Music for Nine Post Cards" (1982) and "Green" (1986) are experiencing a renaissance through mod...

In this special episode, we recap the wildly successful "Glasses Personality" event at Takinogawa Flames. Host Makoto Hoshino of Makoto Eyewear shares highlights from this unique gathering where attendees discovered new facets of themselves through carefully curated eyewear. Special guest Gary, designer of the renowned Taiwanese brand Classico, made a surprise appearance, engaging direct...

In this episode, Tokyo eyewear boutique owner Makoto Hoshino shares his unique philosophy on glasses and adventure. After climbing Mount Everest simply because "he decided to do it once before dying," Makoto now has his sights set on space exploration. Makoto explains how glasses represent freedom of expression in restrictive environments - whether it's wearing fashionable frames whi...

In this episode, we speak with Makoto Hoshino, owner of Makoto Eyewear in Tokyo's Shinjuku and Ginza districts, who was recently featured in Shimano Lifestyle's article on climbing and eyewear. After conquering Everest and completing the Ultraman Triathlon, Makoto reflects on the mental challenges of committing to ambitious goals and his current consideration of a strait crossing challenge...