Best Expat Community In Japan Podcasts (2025)

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How Japanese rakugo is different than Western comedy 1:23:22

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3d ago1:23:22

1:23:22

Today we talk with Sanyutei Kouseinen, one of the few foreigner professional rakugo performers. We talk about the differences between Western and Japanese comedy, what it's like to perform the traditional Japanese art as a foreigner, and the hard apprentice journey one must take to become a rakugo storyteller. Follow Sanyutei Kouseinen https://www.…

1
Japanese sake is the old man's drink – how can you make it "cool"? 1:09:06

6d ago1:09:06

1:09:06

Sitting down with us today is co-founder of Heaven Sake, Carl, who is aiming to expand the Japanese sake industry in foreign markets by creating an iconic sake brand that shows off both the elegance and rich flavors of the traditional Japanese drink, as well as redefining it's image from the "old man's" drink to a more contemporary and luxurious fe…

1
How David Hewett became one of Japan's most renowned artists 1:15:53

10d ago1:15:53

1:15:53

Today we're joined by one of Japan's most renowned artists, David Hewett. David has lived in Japan for 32 years and has become well known for his contemporary art which has been displayer in galleries and hotels due to it's unique style that that blend Western and Japanese techniques. David talks to us about what it's like being an artist in Japan,…

1
Why traditional Japanese boatbuilding is dying and this American is their last chance to preserve it 1:14:25

13d ago1:14:25

1:14:25

Today we talk to Douglas, a boatbuilder who specializes in building traditional Japanese boats and has made an effort to keep this seemingly dying cultural tradition alive by learning from various masters around Japan. Not only does Douglas publish his research and teach at university classes, but his expertise has also allowed him to work on FX's …

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How Peter Barakan became Japan's most recognizable English TV host 1:26:24

17d ago1:26:24

1:26:24

Meet Peter Barakan, who you may know from NHK's Weekend Japanology (Now called Japanology Plus). Peter has hosted various TV shows as well as radio broadcasts introducing all kinds of music to both Japan and overseas. After living in Japan for over 50 years, Peter shares his experience in the industry and the various insights he learned along the w…

1
Re-living the 2025 Canadian Shield Bikepacking Summit with Joanne Steventon 1:22:27

17d ago1:22:27

1:22:27

In this episode of the Bikepack Adventures Podcast, Joanne Steventon and I dive into this year's Canadian Shield Bikepacking Summit. Throughout the summit weekend, Joanne could be seen engaging with participants and doing some short interviews to better help portray the community feel of this bikepacking summit weekend. The episode highlights the u…

1
Visual Kei to Final Fantasy: Endigo's Journey to Japan 1:07:24

20d ago1:07:24

1:07:24

Today we sit down with Endigo, a metal singer and overall musical artist who produces music, performs vocals for video games, and blends many genres to produce a truly unique catalogue of work. Endigo explains their experience finding their niche in Japan and how Japan's take on music and genres have also helped them discover things about themselve…

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How being punched by a teacher in Japan changed his life forever 1:33:16

24d ago1:33:16

1:33:16

Today kendo master and historical researcher, Alex, joins us to talk about his unexpected journey into the world of kendo as we deep dive into the practices and cultural background surrounding the way of the sword. Follow Alex Alex's website https://www.instagram.com/alex.bennett_budo_culture/?hl=en https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuEFJrxMVIzIix3Q…

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What it's like to run an English anime studio in Tokyo 1:07:43

28d ago1:07:43

1:07:43

Today we talk to Mar, founder and director of animation studio Mar Exposito, who will share with us insights of being an animator in Japan as well as the unique career path of creating your own studio vs joining an big anime studio.Liked this episode? Check out our interview with Joshua, a "foreigner" born and raised in Japan who shares his perspec…

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What it's like to feel like a foreigner in your own country ft. @joshuasjapanchannel 58:13

1M ago58:13

58:13

Today we sit with Joshua, who was born and raised in Japan despite his "foreign" appearance. Joshua is a content creator and is passionate about sharing stories like his, of foreigners living in Japan with unique backgrounds and stories that challenge many perspectives of what a "Japanese" person is. He shares his experiences born and raised in Jap…

1
How Westerners are reviving this dying Japanese instrument @TairyuShakuhachi 58:46

1M ago58:46

58:46

Meet Shawn, a master shakuhachi player, who sits down to talk to us about the history and cultural significance of one of Japan's most ubiquitous, yet paradoxically unknown instruments.Shawn teaches us about the challenges of learning shakuhachi as well as his thoughts on the recent popularity of the instrument in the west. Stay tuned for a beautif…

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How Katsura Sunshine brought Japanese comedy to broadway 1:07:22

2M ago1:07:22

1:07:22

Today we are joined by Sunshine, a Rakugo storyteller who dives into the world of Rakugo and what it's like being one of the only foreigners to take on this role. We talk about the tradition of Rakugo storytelling, the apprentice-master dynamic, and the overall apprenticeship experience in the journey to becoming a Rakugo storyteller. Follow Sunshi…

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Ben Clark | Cycling Around the World for Men's Health 2:13:23

2M ago2:13:23

2:13:23

In this episode of the Bikepack Adventures Podcast, I connect with Ben Clark, an adventure cyclist who is 18,000 kilometers into his 35,000-kilometer journey around the world. Ben shares the challenges and highlights of his route, which has taken him through countries such as Turkey, Georgia, Uzbekistan, India, Nepal, and Vietnam. He offers insight…

1
Importing Salmon and Pisco from Chile to Japan 57:51

2M ago57:51

57:51

Joining us today is Nury, a trade and agricultural attaché to the Embassy of Chile, who shares what it's like to bring new products from Chile to Japanese markets and how to navigate trade relations with Japan and all of it's meticulous business practices. Follow Nury: https://jp.linkedin.com/in/nury-disegni-gili-90750754 https://www.chile.gob.cl/j…

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Why Japan has so many unique fashion styles 52:39

2M ago52:39

52:39

Today we talk with Capsule Bunny, a content creator and fashion designer who makes content about Japanese fashion and it's subcultures in Japan. In this episode we take a dive into the world of J fashion and talk about Tenshi Kaiwai, designing clothes, and other unique aspects of Japan's fashion culture.Follow Capsule Bunny:https://www.instagram.co…

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Chris Mahony | Go RVing Canada - The Intersection Between RVing and Biking 54:38

2M ago54:38

54:38

In this episode of the Bikepack Adventures Podcast, I've had the chance to connect with Chris Mahoney, President of Go RVing Canada, a not for profit focused on promoting the RV lifestyle. After an initial discussion, we thought this could be a really interesting podcast, as both the bikepacking and RVing lifestyles are centred around exploration a…

1
Moving to Japan as a skilled tradesman 56:55

2M ago56:55

56:55

Today we are joined by Sergio, an American welder living and working in Japan. He shares his inspiring journey from U.S. shipyards to becoming the first foreign employee at a Japanese manufacturing company. We talk about his path to learning Japanese, getting the Specified Skilled Worker visa, adapting to life in Japan, and his thoughts on Japanese…

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2025 Canadian Shield Bikepacking Summit 27:38

2M ago27:38

27:38

In this episode of the Bikepack Adventures Podcast, I dive into all things Canadian Shield Bikepacking Summit. We talk about the events taking place throughout the weekend, the amazing presenters sharing their knowledge with us, how and why we've integrated workshops into the format, and of course, details on all the amazing sponsors and prizes tha…

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Cultural differences between India and Japan ft. Nikhil_kun 1:03:32

2M ago1:03:32

1:03:32

Meet Nikhil, a content creator from India, who sits down to talk to us about his journey to Japan, becoming fluent in Japanese, and the anime that started it all.Follow Nikhil and his channel:https://www.youtube.com/@Nikhil_kunhttps://www.instagram.com/nikhil__kunJoin Nikhil Kun's WhatsApp Japanese Learning Group:https://chat.whatsapp.com/LggWDlqIV…

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Life lessons from Japanese car culture ft. Dino DC 1:01:39

3M ago1:01:39

1:01:39

Meet Dino, a car enthusiast, journalist and vlogger based in Japan, who sits down to talk to us about his journey into the Japanese car scene, why it's so diverse, and how foreigners can participate in Japan's unique car culture. Follow Dino:https://www.youtube.com/@dino_dchttps://dinodc.co/https://www.instagram.com/dino_dalle_carbonarehttps://www.…

1
Why Japan is so behind on cybersecurity 56:37

3M ago56:37

56:37

Meet Chinyere, cyber security expert and personal finance consultant. She talks about Japan being extremely behind in cyber security knowledge and other topics. Follow Chinyere: https://thesistafund.com/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7UdPuAihqNSIv8-Eupfjyw https://www.linkedin.com/in/chinyere-okoli-816b2b64 https://www.facebook.com/thesistafund…

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Chris Smith | Blind Guy Biking the Tour Divide 1:20:47

3M ago1:20:47

1:20:47

In this episode of the Bikepack Adventures Podcast, I have the chance to talk with Chris Smith, better known as the Blind Guy Biking on Instagram. Chris has defied the odds on many occasions throughout his life. While Stargardt’s Disease is an inherited genetic condition that causes central vision loss, it usually occurs during childhood, resulting…

1
Cultural differences between Japan and the Philippines 47:59

3M ago47:59

47:59

Meet Mickael, a half Japanese, half Filipino vlogger, who makes content about life in Japan in Tagalog. He sits down with us to share his story of growing up hafu in Japan, before rediscovering his roots in the Philippines. Follow Mickael on social media: https://www.tiktok.com/@mikasan__ https://www.youtube.com/@mikasan_ https://www.instagram.com/…

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How studying obscure Japanese arts can help you build a life in Japan 1:06:19

3M ago1:06:19

1:06:19

Meet Justin, a singer who has been studying the ancient art of shigin for more than 10 years, after accidentally discovering it one day while living in the Japanese countryside. He sits down with us to share his story of moving from Tennessee to Japan and falling in love with this beautiful, yet incredibly difficult, traditional art form. 00:00 Int…

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Meaghan Hackinen | Rockin' the Atlas Mountain Race 1:03:11

3M ago1:03:11

1:03:11

In this episode of the Bikepack Adventures Podcast, I have Meaghan Hackinen back on the podcast for her 4th time. In this episode we dive into her recent women's 2nd place finish at the Atlas Mountain Race. We discussed her preparations for the event and how challenging it can be to do a major race in the middle of winter, her new Cutthroat and get…

1
"Light in Japan is different. It just is." Photographer Joe Allam on moving to Japan 1:05:38

4M ago1:05:38

1:05:38

Meet Joe Allam, a British filmmaker and a photographer who was so fascinated by Japan that he decided to move to Osaka and restart his entire life in Japan. He sits down to talk with us about what makes Japan so special, how he avoids the Japan content trap, and his own inspirations as a filmmaker. Follow Joe Allam: https://joeallam.co.uk/about/ ht…

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Ananya's secret to Japanese fluency 55:36

4M ago55:36

55:36

Meet Ananya, who sits down with us to share her journey to Japan and unique perspective on living here as a content creator. Ananya makes both educational content to help teach Japanese, as well as comedic skits that reflect her personal experiences in Japan. Follow Ananya: https://www.instagram.com/hiananyaa_ https://www.youtube.com/@hiananyaa htt…

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Ridecast: 2025 Wendigo Fatbike Ultra | Intro by Organizer Cameron Dube 40:37

4M ago40:37

40:37

In this episode of the Bikepack Adventures Podcast, I share with you a Ridecast on my recent Wendigo Fatbike Ultra event participation. This was the 10th year of the event and quite a special year to participate in such an event. As an added bonus, I invited the organizer, Cameron Dube, to come on the podcast to start us off and share about the cre…

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LGBTQ+ Documentary Filmmaker Discusses Queer Rights in Japan 54:30

4M ago54:30

54:30

Meet Felicity, a filmmaker exploring the theme of identity through her documentary work in Japan. She sits down to talk with us about what she's learned about Japanese views on multiculturalism, awareness of queer issues, and the concept of what "home" is. Follow Felicity's work: https://www.instagram.com/wherenextjapan https://www.wherenextjapan.c…

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AV Actress June Lovejoy explains the Japanese porn industry 1:05:38

4M ago1:05:38

1:05:38

Meet AV star June Lovejoy, who sits down with us to break down all the misconceptions about the Japanese porn industry, and explore what life is like for workers in this profession. June shares their own personal experiences, their thoughts on the good and bad of the industry, and the ways it continues to change. Follow June: https://www.instagram.…

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Unpacking Bikepacking #8 | Winter Biking with Doug Dunlop 2:52:09

4M ago2:52:09

2:52:09

In this episode of the Bikepacking Adventures Podcast, I'm happy to have Doug Dunlop back on the show to record an Unpacking Bikepacking episode on all things winter biking. Doug runs a fantastic website called coldbike.com, where he blogs and reviews tons of winter biking related gear, constantly working to improve his skills with all things regar…

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Interviewing the most recognizable voice in Japan 59:24

5M ago59:24

59:24

Meet Donna Burke, a singer and voice actress in Japan most widely known as the voice of the Shinkansen. She sits down to talk to us about her 30-year career in Japan, from wedding singer to starring in franchises like Metal Gear, Silent Hill, and Tokyo Ghoul, as well as her life as an entrepreneur. Follow Donna: https://www.donnaburke.com/ https://…

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Nathan Starzynski | Two years filming his ride across Eurasia + MyVeloFit Mini Episode 2:19:18

5M ago2:19:18

2:19:18

In this episode of the Bikepack Adventures Podcast, Nathan Starzynski is back on the podcast. Nathan, who once cycled across Canada and was on the podcast in Episode 153, now shares his journey of biking across Eurasia. Over two years and a distance of 41,500 kilometers, Nathan rode from Portugal to Japan, capturing stunning videos and recounting a…

Expat Community In Japan Podcasts

1
Unpacking Japan

Produced by ZenStudio

1
Bikepack Adventures Podcast

Chris Panasky

1
The School of Travels

Becky Gillespie

1
How Japanese rakugo is different than Western comedy 1:23:22

1
Japanese sake is the old man's drink – how can you make it "cool"? 1:09:06

1
How David Hewett became one of Japan's most renowned artists 1:15:53

1
Why traditional Japanese boatbuilding is dying and this American is their last chance to preserve it 1:14:25

1
How Peter Barakan became Japan's most recognizable English TV host 1:26:24

1
Re-living the 2025 Canadian Shield Bikepacking Summit with Joanne Steventon 1:22:27

1
Visual Kei to Final Fantasy: Endigo's Journey to Japan 1:07:24

1
How being punched by a teacher in Japan changed his life forever 1:33:16

1
What it's like to run an English anime studio in Tokyo 1:07:43

1
What it's like to feel like a foreigner in your own country ft. @joshuasjapanchannel 58:13

1
How Westerners are reviving this dying Japanese instrument @TairyuShakuhachi 58:46

1
How Katsura Sunshine brought Japanese comedy to broadway 1:07:22

1
Ben Clark | Cycling Around the World for Men's Health 2:13:23

1
Importing Salmon and Pisco from Chile to Japan 57:51

1
Why Japan has so many unique fashion styles 52:39

1
Chris Mahony | Go RVing Canada - The Intersection Between RVing and Biking 54:38

1
Moving to Japan as a skilled tradesman 56:55

1
2025 Canadian Shield Bikepacking Summit 27:38

1
Cultural differences between India and Japan ft. Nikhil_kun 1:03:32

1
Life lessons from Japanese car culture ft. Dino DC 1:01:39

1
Why Japan is so behind on cybersecurity 56:37

1
Chris Smith | Blind Guy Biking the Tour Divide 1:20:47

1
Cultural differences between Japan and the Philippines 47:59

1
How studying obscure Japanese arts can help you build a life in Japan 1:06:19

1
Meaghan Hackinen | Rockin' the Atlas Mountain Race 1:03:11

1
"Light in Japan is different. It just is." Photographer Joe Allam on moving to Japan 1:05:38

1
Ananya's secret to Japanese fluency 55:36

1
Ridecast: 2025 Wendigo Fatbike Ultra | Intro by Organizer Cameron Dube 40:37

1
LGBTQ+ Documentary Filmmaker Discusses Queer Rights in Japan 54:30

1
AV Actress June Lovejoy explains the Japanese porn industry 1:05:38

1
Unpacking Bikepacking #8 | Winter Biking with Doug Dunlop 2:52:09

1
Interviewing the most recognizable voice in Japan 59:24

1
Nathan Starzynski | Two years filming his ride across Eurasia + MyVeloFit Mini Episode 2:19:18