Best Small Talk Japan Podcasts (2025)

US President Donal Trump has threatened "very severe tariffs" on Russia if a peace deal with Ukraine isn't reached within 50 days. He's also agreed on a plan to funnel military aid to Ukraine through NATO. Also, Oman plans to institute a personal income tax starting in 2028. And, Cuban medical mission are under scrutiny amid allegations of forced l…

1
Life and Business on the Road with Kasey of Red's Gone Green 47:28

Play Pause

1d ago47:28

47:28

Kasey once wondered if it was possible to continue running her eCommerce business while living full time on the road with her family... In this episode, Kasey, the founder of Red's Gone Green, shares how she has made it work! She breaks down the growth she has seen in the last 10 years and the biggest obstacle she is facing today. We chat about eve…

1
US demands Ukraine pay for weapons to fight Russia 48:23

2d ago48:23

48:23

US President Donald Trump and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte have announced that the United States will sell US-made arms to Ukraine, a reversal from Trump's former statements suggesting he wouldn’t transfer any weapons. Also, protests are a hallmark of university life — but on campuses across England, student activism and academic freedom are f…

1
Bosnians mark 30th anniversary of Srebrenica genocide 48:56

5d ago48:56

48:56

This week marks three decades since a massacre in the Bosnian town of Srebrenica where more than 8,000 Bosniak men and boys were systematically killed by Serb forces in 1995. Some survivors and victims’ families say they're still looking for justice. Also, after decades of insurgency against the Turkish government, the PKK has ceremonially laid dow…

1
8-4 Play 7/11/2025: SWEET HOME AUSTRALIA 1:01:33

5d ago1:01:33

1:01:33

Mark returns to hawk Lumines Arise and talk about 'Jima's latest, Death Stranding 2; also, Blue Prince bingo speed runs, all that :gestures: Xbox stuff, and obscure Famicom and PC Engine games (because JP) Time — Topic Discussed 01:41 — PC Engine Talk 16:04 — Death Stranding 2 29:20 — Sweet Home 45:01 — News…

1
The global race to build icebreakers 48:18

6d ago48:18

48:18

The EU has awarded Finland around $105 million to help purchase a new icebreaker ship. It's part of a global race to expand fleets with the capacity to safely move through the Arctic as climate change opens up new pathways through the ice. Also, Houthi rebels strike two ships in the Red Sea. And, Palestinian Christians in the Israeli-occupied West …

1
Youth drive anti-government protests in Kenya 48:31

7d ago48:31

48:31

Thousands of people in Kenya have taken to the streets to protest the government of President William Ruto. The demonstrations are driven by young people who are frustrated with a host of government policies and are demanding change. Also, a look at why fentanyl seizures at the US-Mexico border have dropped sharply. And, Russia launches its largest…

1
Generations-old historic hotel in Haiti burns to the ground 47:56

8d ago47:56

47:56

Hotel Oloffson in Port-au-Prince, which has survived political upheaval, weather events and the devastating 2010 earthquakes, was burned to the ground by gangs over the weekend. Also, Yemen's Houthi rebels have attacked ships in the Red Sea for the first time this year. And, experts raise concerns about the legal and ethical implications of Israel’…

1
From Cattle to Consumers with Elizabeth Thomas of Thomas Cattle Co 33:29

8d ago33:29

33:29

Shipping a 30 lb perishable product overnight to Florida is not a cheap thing for Thomas Cattle Company - yet they ship their beef nationwide every Monday! In this episode, Elizabeth Thomas shares how the family-run ranching business has grown into a direct-to-consumer beef business and the lessons they've learned along the way. From the steep lear…

1
Challenges for flood early warning systems 48:14

9d ago48:14

48:14

Flood disasters around the world continue to grow as climate change fuels intense and erratic rainfall. We look at what hurdles remain in ensuring early warning systems are effective and what disparities exist for those who are and are not warned in time. Also, the 14th Dalai Lama, who just turned 90, has announced that he will be reincarnated and …

1
SD Darmono - Is Trump's Economic Plan a Wakeup Call? 16:25

12d ago16:25

16:25

In this episode, of the Asia Pacific Business Forum Podcast, we speak with SD Darmono, one of Indonesia’s influential business figures and the architect of the country's Special Economic Zone strategy. As founder of the Jababeka Group, Darmono helped transform a vision from the early 1990s into a thriving industrial city—creating over a million job…

1
A show full of comedy and laughs 49:04

12d ago49:04

49:04

Come have a good laugh during our special comedy show. We bring you quips from a Zimbabwean comedian making a splash in the United States. Also, Syrian comedians tell jokes that were unthinkable under the former regime in their country. And, Venezuelans find humor in exile. Plus, an AI bot that beats phone scammers at their own game. Listen to toda…

1
Delicious dishes from around the world 48:13

13d ago48:13

48:13

Today’s show brings you flavorful food from across the globe. We discuss a new book with special Asian-style barbecue recipes. Also, a look at the healthy “African heritage diet” that can boost the immune system and reduce inflammation. And, a cookbook that's been hailed as the first comprehensive guide to home cooking from all six regions of Niger…

1
Stories of families from around the world 48:46

14d ago48:46

48:46

Today’s show focuses on families. We take a look at motherhood across the globe. Also, dads in Japan struggling to reform fatherhood. Meanwhile, Turkey names 2025 the “Year of the Family,” unveiling financial incentives for new parents and urging couples to have more children. Plus a look at the life of Andrée Blouin, who helped lead independence m…

1
A show dedicated to sports 47:30

15d ago47:30

47:30

In today's sports-themed show, we take a look at a study that's trying to reduce soccer knee injuries in women. Also, universities are now offer crash courses in American football for international students to not only understand the sport, but also learn about American culture. And, a deadly fungal disease is threatening to wipe out ash trees used…

1
#66 Bruce Dickinson - Tattooed Millionaire 1:03:40

15d ago1:03:40

1:03:40

Send us a text [email protected] patreon.com/listentoironmaidenbaby Support the showBy Ash and Ante

1
A special show focusing on Japan 48:59

16d ago48:59

48:59

In today's special looking at all things Japan, we bring updates on two key trade deals with China and the United States. Also, a look at how Tokyo’s massive public transit system bucks the trends of traffic and air pollution. And, experiencing the country’s “listening lounges” that offer pure music, with a side of drinks. Plus, a peek into Hello K…

1
Fun Friday 30: Interview with Timothy Reid 1:21:51

18d ago1:21:51

1:21:51

Podcast Guest: Timothy Reid – From English Teacher to Award-Winning Musician and Game Industry Pro in Japan This week on the podcast, I’m thrilled to welcome Timothy Reid, a multi-talented artist and creator whose journey to success in Japan is nothing short of inspiring. Originally from North Yorkshire in the UK, Timothy moved to Japan in 2011 aft…

1
The Most Random Show Yet | STJ 282 44:07

19d ago44:07

44:07

Enjoying the show? Please support us on Patreon and get access to our members-only videos! : https://www.patreon.com/smalltalkjapan

1
US schools create contingency plans for international students 49:15

19d ago49:15

49:15

Colleges abroad are stepping in to help international students at US campuses who are caught up in political havoc as the Trump administration announces enhanced scrutiny of student visa applications. Also, a look back at the legacy of Argentine American film score composer Lalo Schifrin who died at the age of 93. And, the Chilean government adds t…

1
8-4 Play 6/27/2025: SUMMER REVUE 1:12:18

19d ago1:12:18

1:12:18

Summer is the time for love, Takarazuka, and Death Stranding 2 early access. Plus the latest Switch 2 impressions, Japan life updates, and thoughts on the DK Direct. 00:58 – Nicknames 12:36 – Death Stranding 2: On the Beach 27:30 – Grandia 33:54 – Mario Kart World 54:09 – News: Donkey Kong Bananza Direct, Marathon delayed, and more!…

1
Thailand seals border with Cambodia 48:51

20d ago48:51

48:51

Thailand has closed off its border with Cambodia — delivering a sharp blow to its economy. It’s the latest strike in a dispute centered around a remote piece of border land that both countries claim. Also, UNICEF warns that Sudanese children affected by war are increasingly malnourished. And, a new tourist destination is opening up — in North Korea…

1
Kenyans mark one year since deadly anti-tax protests 47:39

21d ago47:39

47:39

Demonstrations mark the one-year anniversary of anti-tax protests that left 60 people dead in Kenya, while others remain missing. They come on the heels of last week's protests against police brutality in the country. Also, NATO allies agree to a dramatic boost in defense spending — pledging to invest 5% of their economic output by 2035. And, Vietn…

1
A shaky ceasefire between Israel and Iran 48:46

22d ago48:46

48:46

US President Donald Trump has claimed that a ceasefire is holding between Israel and Iran, though each side claims the other has already violated the agreement. Also, a group of international legal experts signs onto a letter warning that private military contractors and others working with the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation may be criminally liable …

1
#65 Live After Death 1:27:37

22d ago1:27:37

1:27:37

Send us a text [email protected] patreon.com/listentoironmaidenbaby Support the showBy Ash and Ante

1
How urgent is the threat of Iran’s nuclear program? 47:51

23d ago47:51

47:51

We take a look a look at how urgent the threat from Iran’s nuclear program really is, and the reactions of people living near the nuclear sites bombed by the US over the weekend. Also, Kirsty Coventry takes over as the new president of the International Olympic Committee. And, Thailand’s prime minister is under fire from the nation’s army amid a bo…

1
Israel and Iran enter a second week of war 48:51

26d ago48:51

48:51

Iran's foreign minister is in Europe meeting with diplomats there as war with Israel continues. Meanwhile, Iranians have been cut off from the global internet for nearly two full days now and hundreds of Israelis are caught in Cyprus, the EU country closest to Israel, still trying to get home. Also, cases of the recently identified COVID-19 variant…

1
Rwanda and DRC sign draft peace deal 48:18

27d ago48:18

48:18

Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo have signed a draft peace agreement that’s expected to be signed next week and aims to end the fighting in eastern DRC. Also, a look at acts of kindness and support amid the airstrikes in Iran. And, El Salvador courts exiles to return with incentives and promises of safety. Plus, remembering Sir Geoff Palmer,…

1
Kenyan protesters denounce death of blogger in police custody 48:38

28d ago48:38

48:38

Protestors battle with police in downtown Nairobi, condemning the death of a 31-year-old teacher and blogger who died more than a week ago while in police custody. Also, Canada and India try to rebuild their fractured relationship. And, Finland cracks down on e-scooters to address a growing number of accidents. Plus, Jewish groups gather for the Fi…

1
Israel-Iran war continues for 5th day as residents flee 48:37

29d ago48:37

48:37

Israelis and Iranians spent the day today fleeing or hiding from the back-and-forth bombing between their two countries. Also, a member of the Irish rap group Kneecap faces a terrorism-related charge. And, the Louvre museum in Paris closes down as staff members protest working conditions. Plus, Switzerland offers 370,000 bunkers, enough to shelter …

1
Israel orders Iranians to leave Tehran as it escalates strikes 48:18

30d ago48:18

48:18

Israel has ordered Iranians living in Tehran to evacuate as it plans to escalate its attacks in the city that’s home to roughly 10 million people. But for some residents, leaving is not an option. Meanwhile, although Israel has intercepted most of the hundreds of missiles that Iran has fired at it, the ones that have made it through have caused som…

1
Azumi’s Easy Japanese Small Talk #568 ロサンゼルスのデモアメリカの政府が軍を出す：National Guard troops deployed in LA on Trump's order 12:57

1M ago12:57

12:57

🌟グループレッスンをしています🌟クラスメートといっしょに日本語を練習しませんか❓https://www.italki.com/en/group-class/6605894/japanese?classtype%5B0%5D=2 🔗ロサンゼルスのデモアメリカの政府が軍を出すhttps://www3.nhk.or.jp/news/easy/ne2025061012085/ne2025061012085.html 🔗 National Guard troops deployed in LA on Trump's order 🔗Why don't you join⁠⁠ my Group lesson⁠?⁠https://www.italki.com/en/group-class/6605894/j…

1
Israel launches early morning strikes on Iranian military, nuclear and civilian sites 48:45

1M ago48:45

48:45

Israel launched an attack on Iran, targeting the country's nuclear program and military leadership. Several Iranian nuclear scientists were killed along with top military officials including the head of Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps. An Israeli official has said the current offensive against Iran will continue for days. Also, a major conference …

1
8-4 Play 6/13/2025: ROCKET START 1:27:57

1M ago1:27:57

1:27:57

One week and three and a half million units later, tune in to hear the crew's first hands-on impressions of Switch 2 and all the excitement surrounding the launch in Japan, plus the latest news out of Summer Game Fest, State of Play, the Xbox Games Showcase, and more! Time — Topic Discussed 00:52 – Nicknames 05:38 – Nintendo Switch 2 13:04 – Mario …

1
Air India flight crash kills more than 200 48:08

1M ago48:08

48:08

A London-bound plane carrying 242 people crashed shortly after taking off from the Indian city of Ahmedabad on Wednesday. Officials have confirmed that there was a single survivor. The plane crashed into a hostel that houses medical students, several of whom also died. Also, in Syria, journalists are building a new media landscape in the post-Assad…

1
Duterte dynasty faces judgment day 48:22

1M ago48:22

48:22

In the Philippines, an impeachment court convenes on Wednesday against Sara Duterte, the current vice president and daughter of former President Rodrigo Duterte. With her father currently detained by the International Criminal Court, Sara Duterte is seen as her family's last hope to continue their political dynasty. Also, a Haitian church that's he…

1
What is a "butsukari otoko" ? | STJ 281 41:43

1M ago41:43

41:43

Enjoying the show? Please support us on Patreon and get access to our members-only videos! : https://www.patreon.com/smalltalkjapan

1
Shock and grief in the Austrian city of Graz on Tuesday after mass shooting 49:13

1M ago49:13

49:13

In Austria, a mass shooting took place at a secondary school in the city of Graz. Nine students were killed, and 12 people were injured. The primary suspect is a former student, but not much is known about his motives. This was the the deadliest school shooting in Austria's modern history. Also, the UK is embracing nuclear power as part of the coun…

1
Iran truck drivers strike for better pay and benefits 47:40

1M ago47:40

47:40

Since early June, Iranian truck drivers have been protesting for better pay and benefits. The action has seen drivers park their vehicles and refuse cargo deliveries in multiple provinces, disrupting transportation and supply chains. Labor activists in Iran say the strike reflects deepening economic frustration among workers already strained by inf…

1
#64 Run For Your Lives Tour Preview 54:00

1M ago54:00

54:00

Send us a text [email protected] patreon.com/listentoironmaidenbaby Support the showBy Ash and Ante

1
Podcast 60: Talking about cleaning and household chores in Japanese 27:34

1M ago27:34

27:34

Welcome to another episode of Learn Japanese Pod! This time, we’re diving into a topic that’s more than just daily vocabulary—it’s a cultural deep dive into cleanliness, chores, and the Japanese mindset around keeping things tidy. In this episode, Alex and Ami Sensei explore how to talk about household chores in natural, conversational Japanese. Yo…

1
Podcast 60: Just the dialogues 1:06

1M ago1:06

1:06

The Japanese-only audio drills for podcast 59 have moved to our new Patreon page. Please click the link below for access: Learn Japanese Pod PatreonBy Alex Brooke

1
Israeli PM confirms his government is arming groups in Gaza 48:53

1M ago48:53

48:53

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirms an allegation by lawmaker Avigdor Liberman that Israel is arming criminal groups in Gaza. Also, wildcard athlete Lois Boisson competes with top-ranked tennis players at the French Open in Paris. And, a look at how the Houthis in Yemen kept the US navy under constant pressure. Plus, a new project th…

1
Trump and Xi agree during phone call to meet in-person 48:33

1M ago48:33

48:33

US President Donald Trump described his 90-minute conversation today with Chinese Leader Xi Jinping as "very good." The call comes as Washington and Beijing have been accusing one another of violating a trade truce that both nations had recently agreed to. Also, France saw a 46% rise in adult baptisms this past Easter. And, wildfires continue to bu…

1
Azumi’s Easy Japanese Small Talk #567 日本と中国で魚の輸出のルールを決めた：Japan, China agree on requirements for resuming Japanese seafood imports 16:17

1M ago16:17

16:17

🌟グループレッスンをしています🌟クラスメートといっしょに日本語を練習しませんか❓https://www.italki.com/en/group-class/6605894/japanese?classtype%5B0%5D=2🔗日本と中国で魚の輸出のルールを決めた https://www3.nhk.or.jp/news/easy/ne2025053011592/ne2025053011592.html 🔗Japan, China agree on requirements for resuming Japanese seafood imports https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20250530_08/🔗Why don't you join⁠⁠…