In this heartfelt episode, Aya Yamanouchi, People and Culture Senior Manager in the luxury industry, shares her journey of rediscovering purpose through change and self-reflection. From growing up in her family’s fashion business to leading people and inclusion initiatives across global maisons, Aya’s story reveals how transformation often begins when we allow ourselves to embrace imperfection.

Guided by the Japanese philosophy of Wabi Sabi, she speaks about the courage to ask for help, the importance of self-awareness, and the art of leading with authenticity. Her journey is a reminder that leadership is not about perfection but about presence, listening, and creating space for others to grow.

🎧 A conversation about purpose, reflection, and becoming through change.

References and Inspirations Mentioned in This Episode

• Thích Nhất Hạnh , the philosphy of interbeing: https://thichnhathanhfoundation.org/thich-nhat-hanh
  

Credits

Concept creation: SAWA Journey

Host: Samia Jamai

Production: ZERO TO ONE Productions

Studio: J-Wave Tokyo Studio

Digital partner: Maxima Group

Theme music (licensed via Slipstream Music):

• Happening Now by Zaphod and the Hearts of Gold

• Givers and Takers by Lt FitzGibbons Men

  
  

✨ For behind-the-scenes insights and guest profiles, follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this SawaTalks episode, Helen Iwata, Women's Success, Leadership, and Communication Coach, shares her journey from corporate Japan to empowering women to lead with clarity, confidence, and ease. She reflects on the hidden cost of constant perseverance and how learning to slow down can unlock greater impact and wellbeing.

Drawing from Japanese wisdom on perseverance and appreciation, Helen redefines resilience as alignment rather than endurance. Together with host Samia Jamai, she explores how women can listen to their bodies, choose their thoughts, and build success that feels sustainable — leading with less effort and more meaning.

References and Inspirations Mentioned in This Episode
Quote: “Argue for your limitations, and sure enough, they’re yours.” Richard Bach

Sasuga Communications: https://sasugacommunications.com

The Sasuga! Podcast by Helen Iwata: Spotify Apple Podcast

Credits

Concept creation: SAWA Journey

Host: Samia Jamai

Production: ZERO TO ONE Productions

Studio: J-Wave Tokyo Studio

Digital partner: Maxima Group

Theme music (licensed via Slipstream Music):

• Happening Now by Zaphod and the Hearts of Gold

• Givers and Takers by Lt FitzGibbons Men

  
  

✨ For behind-the-scenes insights and guest profiles, follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this prologue, your host Samia Jamai, introduces the core concepts that shape the Season 1 of SawaTalks Podcast. Inspired by Japanese wisdom, each episode explores philosophies that foster growth, resilience, and leadership.

Which concept will resonate with your journey the most? Listen to find out!

Her story. Her insight. Our growth.

👉 Subscribe, share, and leave a review to help us build this journey together.

Credits

Concept creation: SAWA Journey

Host: Samia Jamai

Production: ZERO TO ONE Productions

Studio: J-Wave Tokyo Studio

Digital partner: Maxima Group

Theme music (licensed via Slipstream Music):

• Happening Now by Zaphod and the Hearts of Gold

• Givers and Takers by Lt FitzGibbons Men

  
  

✨ For behind-the-scenes insights and guest profiles, follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.