*“Yesterday, I Went to Mars ♡”*

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...

In this episode, we explore how breaking free from people-pleasing tendencies can begin with something as simple as choosing daring eyewear. Tired of constantly conforming to others' expectations? "Defiant glasses" might be your first step toward authentic self-expression. We examine how defiance isn't necessarily negative but rather a sign of strength and confidence. Like Elton...

Makoto Eyewear, with locations in Shinjuku and Ginza, explores the phenomenon of "family blocking" - where loved ones resist our style changes due to status quo bias. Family members often oppose new eyewear choices due to resistance to change, worry, jealousy, and conflict with their fixed image of us. This resistance extends beyond eyewear choices - even historical innovators faced simi...

In this episode, Makoto—owner of Makoto Optics with locations in Shinjuku and Ginza—challenges the conventional wisdom of eyewear selection. We explore how the seemingly helpful advice "this type of glasses suits this face shape" might actually be limiting your potential. Discover why choosing glasses that feel slightly uncomfortable or unfamiliar could be the key to unlocking new dimensions of yo...

In this episode, Makoto—owner of Makoto Optics and a 15-year veteran in the eyewear industry—explores how "good" glasses can become the enemy of finding truly "great" frames. We examine the psychology behind settling for merely adequate eyewear and how breaking this pattern can transform not just your appearance, but your entire self-perception. From identifying the warning sig...

In this episode, Makoto—owner of Makoto Optics and a 15-year veteran in the eyewear industry—explores the profound concept of glasses as masks. We challenge the common belief that "people judge 90% by appearance" and discover how a simple pair of frames can completely transform not just how others see us, but how we see ourselves. From Superman's iconic disguise to everyday transform...

In this thought-provoking episode, Makoto—owner of Makoto Optics—explores the fascinating paradox of self-expression when no one is watching. Drawing from personal insights and the remarkable story of Elton John, we examine why our most authentic and liberating forms of self-expression often happen in private spaces. Discover how these moments of "secret self-liberation" can enhance crea...

In this episode, we explore the transformative potential of embracing unfamiliar choices in our daily lives. That initial feeling of "this doesn't quite feel like me" isn't something to avoid—it might actually be the doorway to discovering new dimensions of yourself. We'll discuss practical ways to step outside your comfort zone, the surprising benefits of choosing the unfami...

In this episode, Makoto—owner of Makoto Optics in Shinjuku and Ginza and a self-proclaimed glasses enthusiast with a collection of thousands—explores the unique emotional journey of passionate eyewear collectors. From the exasperated sighs of family members to the secret thrill of acquiring "just one more pair," we dive into the psychology of pursuing a passion despite social disapproval. Makoto s...

The Playful Mind: How Exploration Shapes Our Aesthetic SensibilitiesEpisode Summary In this episode, we explore the fascinating connection between playfulness and good taste. Have you ever noticed that people with exceptional aesthetic sensibilities tend to be more exploratory and open to new experiences? We dive into why "play" - in its broadest sense - is fundamental to developing refi...