Tokyo on Fire!

In this episode of Mission Japan, we are honored to welcome H.E. Mikhail Galuzin, Russian Ambassador to Japan. We explore the origins of Russo-Japanese relations, the Russian community in Japan and the economic components of a thrilling trading relation. The Ambassador also gives us his insights on the possibility of a future peace treaty agreement and the so-called "Kuril islands issue", still unresolved with their Japanese counterparts. Join us in this episode as we explore the rich relationship between Russia and Japan.

Tim and Rabbi Cooper, of the Simon Wiesenthal Center, begin this episode by talking about Japan and Israel's relationship, the broader Middle East and the progress and pitfalls of the past 30 years. In the second part of the podcast James Brown joins us once more in discussing the Peace Agreement between Japan and Russia.

The Diet session convened just a few days ago, on January 28th, 2019. It will see only 58 Cabinet-sponsored bills the second lowest number since the Postwar era. Yet, a lot is going on in Japanese politics: the upcoming Emperor's ascension, House of Councillors election in July, Tax hike in October, negotiations for a peace treaty with Russia, etc.

In this episode of Mission Japan, we are honored to welcome Her Excellency Yaffa Ben-Ari, the Israeli Ambassador to Japan. We explore the rich history of the Israeli mission in Japan and the components of today's economic relations between both nations. Join us in this episode as we analyse the blooming relation between Japan and Israel.

In this episode of Mission Japan, we are honored to welcome His Excellency Gunther Sleeuwagen, the Belgian Ambassador to Japan. We explore the rich history of the Belgian mission currently in Nibancho, and the significant events that shaped Japan-Belgium relations. This year, Belgium celebrates its 90 year anniversary of the relocation of its embassy to Nibancho!

The Carlos Ghosn scandal continues, with the former Nissan chairman being rearrested over charges of understated income. The international community keenly watches as Japan's judicial system comes under scrutiny. With further developments raising suspicion over CEO Hiroto Saikawa, who was allegedly going to be removed by Ghosn before the arrest, it begs the question - was this a corporate coup? What are the geopolitics at play in this commercial dispute? And is Ghosn being made an example of for foreign executives in Japan?

The Carlos Ghosn arrest: all according to the script? Are foreign CEOs treated differently from Japanese CEOs? Were corporate management procedures followed correctly when dealing with Carlos Ghosn? Join Timothy Langley and Michael Cucek as they discuss yet another Japanese corporate giant crisis.

How do international corporations deal with inept or under-performing Japanese subsidiaries? What do you do if a rogue CEO is embezzling funds from the company? In Japan, there are unique challenges in the business environment that require qualified professionals to swiftly and decisively take action when trouble arises.

In this episode of Mission Japan, we are honored to welcome His Excellency Magnus Robach, the Swedish Ambassador to Japan. In this fascinating discussion, we explore the rich history of the Swedish mission, and the intriguing pioneers who shaped the diplomatic relations of today. This year, Sweden celebrates its 150 year anniversary of diplomatic relations to Japan!

Our new series begins with Mexico, highlighting the history of its embassy and diplomatic mission in Japan. Cultural attaché, Emmanuel Trinidad, takes Tim on a deep dive into Mexico's initial exposure to Japan through frequented trade routes, the establishment of the legation, and the development of relations over time. Initially part of the Imperial Gardens, the property now occupied by the Mexican embassy was granted to Mexico by the emperor as an offering for further cooperation. Stay tuned for more exclusive insights!

David and Timothy dive into the inner workings of lobbying in Japan. How do Japanese companies do it? Can foreign companies do the same thing? Can their internal Gov't Relations teams achieve the same kind of results as domestic firms, or does it require something more? Timothy's unique personal history working in the National Diet provides several interesting perspectives on how the system works and how foreign firms can take advantage of it.

True gambling with integrated resorts (IR) will now be legitimate in Japan. The legislation passed the Upper House on a riotous last day of the extended Diet Session. How will IRs impact the economy, tourism, and society? Join Michael and Timothy as they examine this dicey issue.

Las Vegas-like resorts in Japan? It definitely could happen: the Abe Administration has pushed through enabling legislation that paves the way for massive entertainment resorts to enter the Japanese market. Up until last year, gambling was largely illegal here as it had been since the Edo Period. Join Michael and Timothy as the delve into the hot-hot-hot issue!

Japan has seen a resurgence of enthusiasm in its startup community over the past few years. As venture capital becomes more readily available, entrepreneurs are vying for position in the Japanese market. Join David Russell and host/founder of the Disrupting Japan Podcast, Tim Romero, as they discuss the state and direction of innovation and entrepreneurship in Japan.

Please join David Russell and Guest, Glen Wood, as they discuss issues with Power Harassment in Japan.

AirBnB Japan has captured global headlines as recent regulation changes have all but exiled the company from this market. As David and Timothy observe, this comes down to two things: tourism growing pains, and the Hotel lobby earning their salaries.

From hitting young children to blacklisting athletes who spurn their sexual advances, acceptable coaching practices in Japan may surprise you. Yet, as Olympic Medalist Yoko Zutterlund explains, recent social movements may provide some hope for change on the horizon.

Tokyo may not be on fire, but the Niigata elections sure were! Some may even describe them as Nuclear—well, at least they focused on nuclear power. Join Timothy and Michael to find out the results and future implications for Japan’s energy production!

In Japan, if youre working with one company, you’re working with many others. Should one company fall on harder times, then all the others contribute to make up for lost sales—acting very much like a family. We call these units “Keiretsu”, and they run the Japanese economy. Join David and Timothy as they dissect what so many foreign companies fail to realize.

Need to whip up a catchy TV ad? Call Dentsu. Need to organize an Olympic-size sporting event? Call Dentsu. Need to quash a nasty story about your company? Call Dentsu. Supporters and detractors agree: Dentsu takes good care of its clients One of the world’s largest ad agencies, its range of activities goes far beyond advertising. Timothy and David take a quick look at the company’s history to better understand how this giant really works.