Episodi

  • The Kiwi Brothers Origin Story: Transforming Zespri Marketing in Japan with Kanako Inomata

    The Kiwi Brothers Origin Story: Transforming Zespri Marketing in Japan with Kanako Inomata
    Apr 19 2026

    Kanako Inomata is the Head of Marketing APAC for Zespri International, one of the world's most recognised fresh produce brands. Working remotely from her hometown in Aizu, Fukushima, she leads marketing strategy across Japan, Korea, Singapore, Australia, Vietnam, and beyond.

    Kanako reveals the fascinating story behind the Kiwi Brothers characters, which have become so iconic in Japan that they've been rolled out globally across Europe, the Americas, and even back to New Zealand. Whether you're interested in brand building, cross-cultural marketing, or living a purpose-driven career, Kanako's wisdom will resonate.

    Subscribe to our list so you never miss an episode of Jandals in Japan

    If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Head over to Apple Podcasts to leave a review and we’d love it if you would come and say hi (or Kia Ora or Konnichi Wa!) over on @jandalsinjapan on Instagram.

    In this episode you’ll hear:

    • What drew Kanako to move her career to a kiwifruit company from New Zealand
    • How Kanako and her team created the now-iconic Kiwi Brothers characters (and now their little sister “Ruby”)
    • The importance of being consumer centric marketing
    • Kanako’s experience working remotely from Fukushima and leading teams across APAC

    About Kanako

    An international marketing leader with extensive experience across Consumer, Shopper and Digital marketing. Starting her career at Unilever in Japan, her international marketing experience expanded into South Africa, and now extends across all of Asia Pacific

    where she leads a multinational marketing team of Japan, Korea, Singapore, Australia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia and India at Zespri International. Representing one of the world’s biggest fresh produce brands, Kanako has led the Zespri marketing team to receive regional recognition including Tangrams Strategy & Effectiveness Awards etc.

    Kanako is a talented consumer driven marketer with a strong sense of accountability and business acumen. She is passionate about developing her team’s capability, and contributing positively to society so she can leave the world in a better place.

    Jandals in Japan is brought to you by Catherine O’Connell Law and PodLaunch with Jayne

    Connect with Jayne and Catherine

    Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jandals-in-japan-podcast/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jandalsinjapan/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jandalsinjapan

    Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@jandalsinjapan
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    54 min
  • Staying When It Gets Tough: How Glen Argyle Earned Trust and Built a Sustainable Business in Japan’s Pharmaceutical Industry

    Staying When It Gets Tough: How Glen Argyle Earned Trust and Built a Sustainable Business in Japan’s Pharmaceutical Industry
    Apr 5 2026

    Glen Argyle left Invercargill for what he thought would be a two or three-year teaching stint in Osaka. Twenty-eight years later, he is currently the CEO of Baxter Japan, one of the world's leading pharmaceutical and medical device companies. His journey from JET program teacher to pharmaceutical industry leader is a masterclass in cultural adaptation, patience, and authentic leadership. Whether you're considering a move to Japan, leading a team here, or exploring business opportunities, Glen's wisdom will resonate deeply.

    Subscribe to our list so you never miss an episode of Jandals in Japan

    If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Head over to Apple Podcasts to leave a review and we’d love it if you would come and say hi (or Kia Ora or Konnichi Wa!) over on @jandalsinjapan on Instagram.

    In this episode you’ll hear:

    • How Glen Argyle went from teaching English on the JET program to becoming CEO of Baxter Japan
    • The best decision of Glen's career, and how learning to adapt communication styles, was essential to his success
    • The critical importance of supply consistency, relationship building, and earning trust in the Japanese market
    • How the inverted pyramid leadership model and values-based decision making can drive cultural change in Japan

    About Glen

    Glen Argyle was born and raised in Invercargill, New Zealand and studied in Dunedin at University of Otago. Following graduation, Glen moved to Osaka expecting to stay only three years and has now spent more than 28 years living and working in Japan. During his career Glen has worked in a range of healthcare leadership roles, including pharmaceuticals, medical devices and service organizations. Passionate about people and empowering teams through servant leadership, Glen tries to bring his Kiwi roots to his leadership style. Glen is currently CEO of Baxter Japan.

    Jandals in Japan is brought to you by Catherine O’Connell Law and PodLaunch with Jayne

    Connect with Jayne and Catherine

    Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jandals-in-japan-podcast/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jandalsinjapan/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jandalsinjapan

    Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@jandalsinjapan

    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    53 min
  • Grassroots Diplomacy: New Zealand's Deputy Head of Mission on Life, Culture, and Connection in Japan

    Grassroots Diplomacy: New Zealand's Deputy Head of Mission on Life, Culture, and Connection in Japan
    Feb 1 2026
    Gareth Pidgeon is Deputy Head of Mission and Consul General at the New Zealand Embassy in Tokyo. From his roots in New Plymouth under the shadow of Mount Taranaki to his current diplomatic role, Gareth shares his incredible journey through Japan that began at just 14 years of age. Discover the unspoken rules of Japanese business culture, find out what a diplomat does in his day job, learn about Matariki celebrations expanding across Japan, and hear how Gareth uses his platform to promote New Zealand's values of inclusion, equality, and diversity. Plus, find out where to get the best vegan ramen in Tokyo!If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Head over to Apple Podcasts to leave a review and we’d love it if you would come and say hi (or Kia Ora or Konnichi Wa!) over on @jandalsinjapan on Instagram.In this episode you’ll hear:A Japanese lesson on top phrases we use in diplomatic, business and social situationsGareth's unique diplomatic journey, from studying Japanese in high school, attending university in Japan at 17, and now serving as Deputy Head of Mission in TokyoGareth’s experience as a gay man living and working in Japan todayThe power of building genuine relationships and why New Zealand's humble approach creates natural connectionsHow Matariki is connecting Kiwi communities across Japan and how you can connect with other Kiwis hereAbout GarethGareth is the Deputy Head of Mission and Consul-General at the New Zealand Embassy in Tokyo. Before coming to Tokyo in 2023, Gareth worked as Lead Adviser Japan and Korea in the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) in Wellington. Gareth joined MFAT in 2007. He has focused on New Zealand’s relationships with Asia for most of his career. In addition to Tokyo, he has previously served in Kuala Lumpur and New Delhi. Before joining MFAT, Gareth worked for the New Zealand Ministry of Defence and Immigration New Zealand.After learning Japanese at high school in New Zealand, Gareth spent five years studying in Japan and graduated from the University of Tsukuba with a Bachelor of Arts degree in International Relations. He holds a Master of Arts degree in History of International Relations from the London School of Economics. LinksNew Zealand Embassy Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nzembassyjapan Japan New Zealand Business Council https://www.jnzbc.com/ ANZCCJ https://www.anzccj.jp/ Sora no Iro https://soranoiro-vege.com/store-menu/soranoiro-nippon/ Jikase Mensho https://menya-shono.com/parco/ Jandals in Japan is brought to you by Catherine O’Connell Law and PodLaunch with JayneConnect with Jayne and CatherineLinked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jandals-in-japan-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jandalsinjapan/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jandalsinjapan Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@jandalsinjapan
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    55 min
  • From Rugby Fields to Banking: Brandon Jackson on Building Bridges Between NZ and Japan

    From Rugby Fields to Banking: Brandon Jackson on Building Bridges Between NZ and Japan
    Jan 18 2026
    Brandon Jackson spent nearly a decade in Japan playing and coaching rugby for corporate teams including the Ricoh Black Rams. Now, as General Manager of Growth Sectors at the Bank of New Zealand, he helps Kiwi businesses scale internationally, with a particular passion for strengthening the NZ-Japan relationship.Brandon discusses the promising sectors for NZ-Japan collaboration while offering frank advice about the common pitfalls Kiwi businesses face when entering Japan. Whether you're interested in rugby, business development, or cross-cultural leadership, this episode offers valuable insights from someone who has truly experienced both worlds and believes passionately that Japan deserves more attention from New Zealand.Subscribe to our list so you never miss an episode of Jandals in Japan If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Head over to Apple Podcasts to leave a review and we’d love it if you would come and say hi (or Kia Ora or Konnichi Wa!) over on @jandalsinjapan on Instagram.In this episode you’ll hear:The lessons from a decade playing and coaching rugby in Japan that now drive Brandon’s approach to banking and business development.Why New Zealand may have taken Japan for granted as a business partner and how the relationship needs to be reinvigoratedThe critical differences between Kiwi and Japanese business culturePractical insights on entering the Japanese market, from understanding distribution networks to building authentic relationships and avoiding the pitfall of thinking you can "just rock up" and succeed.About BrandonBrandon Jackson is General Manager of Growth Sectors at the Bank of New Zealand, where he leads national initiatives to help New Zealand’s high-opportunity industries scale, from healthcare and technology to Māori business, export, and Asia-linked ventures.Before moving into finance, he spent a decade playing and coaching rugby in Japan’s corporate leagues, including for Ricoh and Kurita Water Industries, and completed a Master of Management in Sport Business Administration at Massey University.He has since built a career that bridges leadership, banking, and sport, developing products thathelp NZ businesses grow globally while also serving as a long-time coach and director in New Zealand Rugby.LinksSYOS Aerospace: https://www.bnz.co.nz/business-banking/business-moments/syos-aerospace-how-a-tauranga-robotics-startup-has-taken-flight-globallyTomonoura, Hiroshima Prefecture: https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3432.htmlJandals in Japan is brought to you by Catherine O’Connell Law and PodLaunch with JayneConnect with Jayne and CatherineLinked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jandals-in-japan-podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jandalsinjapan/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jandalsinjapanYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@jandalsinjapan
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    51 min
  • Art, Ancestry and Adventure: Bridging Māori and Japanese Worldviews Through Artistic Creativity on Naoshima

    Art, Ancestry and Adventure: Bridging Māori and Japanese Worldviews Through Artistic Creativity on Naoshima
    Dec 7 2025
    Sarah Hudson made history as Aotearoa's first artist in residence at the Setouchi Triennale. Sarah shares her transformative experience living and creating art in Kagawa Prefecture's island community. Sarah's story is one of perseverance, cultural discovery, and the universal language of art. She reveals how stepping outside the big cities and into rural Japan changed not just her artwork, but her entire perspective on connection, community, and creativity. Whether you're an artist considering international opportunities, a business person looking to understand cross-cultural collaboration, or simply someone who loves hearing about authentic Japan experiences, this conversation will inspire you to see art as a bridge between worlds.If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Head over to Apple Podcasts to leave a review and we’d love it if you would come and say hi (or Kia Ora or Konnichi Wa!) over on @jandalsinjapan on Instagram.In this episode you’ll hear:The profound similarities between Māori and Japanese worldviews and the stone wall connection of a far away island and one close to Sarah’s whenua (land) in AotearoaWhat it takes to be an artist in residence in Japan and tips for aspiring artists to follow in Sarah’s footstepsThe process to harvest taonga(treasures, property) for art Why getting out of big cities is essential for understanding the real Japan About SarahSarah Hudson is a Ngāti Awa, Tūhoe and Ngāti Pūkeko artist based in Whakatāne, Aotearoa. Her practice explores tino rangatiritanga (sovereignty), whenua (land), reciprocity, and relationships through painting, performance, and sculpture. Sarah has exhibited nationally and internationally with the award-winning Mataaho Collective, and is also a founding member of the Kauae Raro Research Collective, an organisation dedicated to the promotion and retention of Māori paint-making technologies.Based in Aotearoa New Zealand, McCahon House deliver a programme designed around the concept of supporting artists at pivotal points in their careers. This includes national and international career-defining residencies and celebrating artists through events and commissioned essays, as well as education initiatives and resources. The Tomorrow Group are McCahon House patrons that support our bold and ambitious projects with international scope, including the Naoshima Artist Residency. They enable artists to extend their practice in different contexts, engage in international exchange and contribute to global discourse.LinksSetouchi Triennale: https://setouchi-artfest.jp/en/ McCahon House https://mccahonhouse.org.nz/ Press Release: https://www.asianz.org.nz/arts/artist-sarah-hudson-announced-as-naoshima-artist-in-residence-and-setouchi-triennale-2025 Jandals in Japan is brought to you by Catherine O’Connell Law and PodLaunch with JayneConnect with Jayne and CatherineLinked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jandals-in-japan-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jandalsinjapan/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jandalsinjapan Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@jandalsinjapan
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    47 min
  • Prosperous Partnerships through Protein: Fonterra's B2B Success Story in Japan with Bryn Rowdon

    Prosperous Partnerships through Protein: Fonterra's B2B Success Story in Japan with Bryn Rowdon
    Nov 21 2025

    Bryn Rowdon is the Corporate Communications General Manager for Fonterra's North Asia region. We uncover the fascinating story of how New Zealand's iconic dairy cooperative is not only a leading B2B supplier in one of the world's most discerning markets but also helping local dairy farmers to create more sustainable and profitable farms.

    New Zealand dairy products and ingredients are now part of Japanese bento, coffee creamers, cheeses and morning toast to name a few, listen in to hear more about Fonterra and how they are doing business in Japan.

    Subscribe to our list so you never miss an episode of Jandals in Japan

    If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Head over to Apple Podcasts to leave a review and we’d love it if you would come and say hi (or Kia Ora or Konnichi Wa!) over on @jandalsinjapan on Instagram.

    In this episode you’ll hear:

    • How Bryn’s bumpy road on the Japanese learning journey turned into a career in Japan
    • How Fonterra operates as a B2B company in Japan and the surprising products that contain Fonterra ingredients
    • The transformation happening in Japanese dairy farming and how Fonterra is helping to lead the charge
    • The critical importance of patience and local partnerships when entering the market in Japan

    About Bryn

    Bryn Rowdon is the Corporate Communications General Manager for Fonterra’s North Asia region (Japan & South Korea).

    He is responsible for the implementation of the region’s sustainability Global Road map, managing stakeholder relations to effectively promote Fonterra's sustainability proposition to North Asia's customers and consumers. His team also manages Legal, Compliance, CSR and Corporate Affairs.

    His previous roles have included Corporate Planning GM, responsible for managing Strategic and Integrated Business Planning and Corporate Affairs as well as North Asia Operations GM, where he managed the Logistics & Sales Operations teams.

    Links

    Fonterra Japan Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fonterra.jp/

    Alex Kane’s Movember Fundraising page: https://movember.com/m/14341735?mc=1

    Jandals in Japan is brought to you by Catherine O’Connell Law and PodLaunch with Jayne

    Connect with Jayne and Catherine

    Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jandals-in-japan-podcast/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jandalsinjapan/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jandalsinjapan

    Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@jandalsinjapan

    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    46 min
  • Lead Yourself First: Tabai Matson's Lessons from Rugby in Five Countries and Coaching the Ricoh Black Rams

    Lead Yourself First: Tabai Matson's Lessons from Rugby in Five Countries and Coaching the Ricoh Black Rams
    Nov 9 2025

    From the Māori All Blacks to the Ricoh Black Rams in Tokyo, Tabai Matson (Tabs) has coached rugby on multiple continents—and Japan has taught him some of his most valuable lessons.

    We build on our learnings from top leaders as Tabs shares his cultural context knowledge with us that is also effective outside of locker rooms and scrums. You’ll be inspired to try your hand at your own version of the “head coach” persona whether it’s in business, sports or daily life in Japan or Aotearoa for that matter.

    Subscribe to our list so you never miss an episode of Jandals in Japan

    If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Head over to Apple Podcasts to leave a review and we’d love it if you would come and say hi (or Kia Ora or Konnichi Wa!) over on @jandalsinjapan on Instagram.

    In this episode you’ll hear:

    • Tabs’ journey from player/coach to head coach of the Ricoh Black Rams Tokyo
    • Why TJ Perenara is captain this season and the fantastic example he is in the team and as a “negotiator” on the field
    • The unique challenge for coaching staff due to Japan’s traditional rugby pathways
    • Tab’s favourite Japanese proverb, treat from the conbini on treat night and a go to karaoke song

    About Tabai

    Tabai Matson (Tabs) is Head Coach of the Ricoh Black Rams Tokyo, a team competing in the Japan Rugby League One tournament.

    Born in Fiji and raised in New Zealand his rugby journey has spanned continents, from pulling on the black jersey for the All Blacks and representing Fiji at the Rugby World Cup, to playing and coaching for Shizuoka Blue Revs (formerly Yamaha Motor Júbilo) here in Japan.

    He has built an extraordinary coaching career as Canterbury’s ITM Cup championship head coach, Crusaders and Chiefs assistant coach in Super Rugby, Head Coach at Bath Rugby in England, and the first non-Māori to coach the Māori All Blacks.

    His path has taken him across five nations, two Rugby World Cups, and over 300 professional games coached.

    Now based in Tokyo Tabs has come full circle - returning to Japan not only to coach but to immerse himself once again in the culture he calls “a place of strength and beauty.”

    Connect with Tabai

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tabai-matson-969846134/

    Links

    Ricoh Black Rams Tokyo http://blackrams-tokyo.com/

    Blue Lock Anime: https://bluelock-anime-en.com/

    Jandals in Japan is brought to you by Catherine O’Connell Law and PodLaunch with Jayne

    Connect with Jayne and Catherine

    Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jandals-in-japan-podcast/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jandalsinjapan/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jandalsinjapan

    Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@jandalsinjapan

    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    1 ora e 7 min
  • Aaron Astle - Descendant of the first Japanese immigrant to New Zealand

    Aaron Astle - Descendant of the first Japanese immigrant to New Zealand
    Oct 5 2025

    Meet Aaron Astle, whose remarkable family story connects two nations across time. As a descendant of Noda Asajiro - believed to be the first Japanese person to set foot in New Zealand in the late 1800s - Aaron brings a unique perspective to living in Japan. From growing up in Auckland immersed in Te Ao Māori to making music and studying Japanese in Osaka, Aaron shares his journey of cultural discovery and connection.

    Subscribe to our list so you never miss an episode of Jandals in Japan in the box below.

    If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Head over to Apple Podcasts to leave a review and we’d love it if you would come and say hi (or Kia Ora or Konnichi Wa!) over on @jandalsinjapan on Instagram.

    In this episode you will hear:

    • The incredible story of Noda Asajiro: how a 10 year old Japanese boy accidentally became a stowaway and ended up marrying into Māori royalty
    • Striking similarities between Māori and Japanese languages
    • Why Aaron felt instantly at home in Japan
    • Aaron's musical journey and his upcoming single called "The Night Our Stars Fell"

    About Aaron

    Born to an American mother and Māori father in Auckland, New Zealand, Aaron Astle (Tainui iwi) has spent his life in love with his whakapapa Māori that he inherited from his father’s side. Since a very young age, at every turn Aaron has taken any opportunity to share Te Ao Māori with those wanting to engage with it. From teaching kapa haka, running cultural workshops with his father to eventually taking it into the corporate space as the Cultural Capability Lead for Vodafone NZ, alongside his role as a Solution Architect. Shifting gears to follow his childhood dream, Aaron moved to Japan in 2023 where he has since been immersing himself in the new culture, studying the language, making and performing music, and lastly drawing closer to his roots that also happen to lead back to the Land of the Rising Sun.

    Links:

    Banpaku Kouen Expo Park: https://www.expo70-park.jp/

    Kiwi House http://www.kiwihouse.jp/

    El Pancho https://tabelog.com/osaka/A2701/A270201/27001670/

    Aaron’s Music: https://aeonaltars.bandcamp.com/community

    Jandals in Japan is brought to you by Catherine O’Connell Law and PodLaunch with Jayne


    Connect with Jayne and Catherine

    Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jandals-in-japan-podcast/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jandalsinjapan/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jandalsinjapan

    Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@jandalsinjapan

    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    55 min