Jandals in Japan®

Peri Drysdale is Founder of the internationally renowned sustainable fashion brand Untouched World. From growing up on a sheep farm in the Rakaia Gorge to becoming a registered nurse, and then launching a global wool business with just $200 in the bank, Peri's journey is nothing short of remarkable. Discover how she broke into Japan's notoriously difficult department store market, the power of persistence, and why being a foreign woman in Japanese business turned from a double negative into a surprising advantage.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 Peri started a global wool business with $200 in the bankThe jaw-dropping story of how Peri got her products into prestigious Japanese retailersThe "two minuses make a plus" philosophyPeri’s Essential lessons for doing business in JapanAbout PeriPeri was born in Christchurch with a first career as a nurse before starting a small home-based knitwear business while raising her young family.Over the decades, that cottage industry evolved into the internationally recognised brand Untouched World, known for its innovative natural fibres and commitment to environmentally responsible fashion.The company exports globally including Japan and has earned international recognition for its leadership in sustainability.Alongside building her business, Peri founded the Untouched World Foundation,and her contributions to business, exports, and sustainability have been widely recognised, including induction into the New Zealand Business Hall of Fame and numerous national awards.LinksUntouched World: https://www.untouchedworld.com/en-intJandals 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

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 JapanThe best decision of Glen's career, and how learning to adapt communication styles, was essential to his successThe critical importance of supply consistency, relationship building, and earning trust in the Japanese marketHow the inverted pyramid leadership model and values-based decision making can drive cultural change in Japan About GlenGlen 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 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

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

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 JapanHow Fonterra operates as a B2B company in Japan and the surprising products that contain Fonterra ingredientsThe transformation happening in Japanese dairy farming and how Fonterra is helping to lead the chargeThe critical importance of patience and local partnerships when entering the market in JapanAbout BrynBryn 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.LinksFonterra 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 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

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 royaltyStriking 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 AaronBorn 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 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

What does it take to succeed in Japan's notoriously difficult beauty market? Elizabeth Barbalich, founder and Director of iconic New Zealand skincare brand Antipodes, shares her fascinating 7-year journey of patience, persistence, and cultural learning that led to success in one of the world's most discerning markets.From developing seven products over two years in her quest for natural wellness, to navigating the complex world of Japanese retail partnerships and formal business etiquette, Elizabeth reveals why Japan isn't just about revenue -it's about building brand equity that opens doors globally. Discover the surprising cultural differences (like why Japanese women condition their hair nightly!), the power of retail staff relationships over influencer marketing, and why being seen on Japanese shelves makes international buyers take notice.Whether you are considering Japan as a market, or simply love hearing about entrepreneurial grit, this episode is packed with actionable insights about building authentic brand trust in a market where customers read every ingredient and expect perfection.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 Elizabeth overcame the challenge of minimal sales with three different distributors for the first three years in Japan• The six-hour "etiquette meeting" required to switch distributors and what it taught her about Japanese business culture• How she created a vitamin C toner specifically for Japanese consumers (and why it became a hit in other markets too)• Why she values formal business meetings and trains her entire team on proper etiquette for every marketAbout ElizabethElizabeth Barbalich is the founder and CEO of the iconic New Zealand skincare brand Antipodes which she founded over 20 years ago in 2004. Elizabeth grew up on the Mainland amidst the Canterbury Plains, undertook a science degree in biology from the University of Canterbury, then embarked on an MBA from the University of Auckland. She won a highly competitive position with a United States medical technology corporation and spent 8 years training surgeons and registrars in the use of their cutting-edge equipment.Antipodes skincare products are made of pure bioactive ingredients from New Zealand’s nature. To launch the sustainable beauty brand, she drew on her background in science. Today Antipodes is available in Japan and many other countries. LinksAntipodes: https://jp.antipodesnature.com/ 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

If you are a long term resident in Japan and consider yourself to be a cultural bridge builder, then this episode is a must listen for you. Sean O’Connell, Professor and Director of the International Center at Nanzan University, is about to drop some gold nuggets in your lap on how you can ace being an even better cross-cultural bridge builder. This is the jandal you have been looking for. 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 the Karate Kid kicked off Sean’s interest in the martial arts and the Japanese languageSean’s tips for also successfully interpreting feeling and nuance between Japanese and English counterpartsThe biggest culture shock moment for people new to business in JapanBringing Sean’s skills in bridge building to life at his bar, The Hungry MooseWhy Sean loves the Jandals in Japan Podcast! About SeanSean has a passion for bridging cultures, and has spent decades (30+ years in Japan alone) immersed in Japanese language, business, and the like. After an exchange year in Yokohama in 1986, he earned a BA in Japanese, an MA in Advanced Japanese Studies, and a PhD in Intercultural Business Communication. Sean’s career has taken him from guiding and managing Japanese tours in New Zealand, and business interpreting and translation in Japan to corporate training, where he specialises in preparing expats and fostering multicultural teamwork.Sean is a Professor and Director of the International Center at Nanzan University in Nagoya. In his free time you can find him at the bar he co-founded, The Hungry Moose. Connect with SeanFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/SOCNAGOYA LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-o-connell-8294b071/ Links:The Hungry Moose: https://www.thehungrymoose.jp/en Jandals in Japan is brought to you by Catherine O’Connell Law and PodLaunch with JayneConnect with Jayne and CatherineLinkedIn: 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 

Chris Boyle is Co-founder, Executive Chair and Managing Director of FABRUM. Chris shares FABRUM's expansive journey in the hydrogen energy sector, including breakthrough projects and partnerships with NASA, Rolls Royce, and significant Japanese corporations like Obayashi. We hear real stories about the failures as well as the successes that have helped them to be where they are today. 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 FABRUM started to get noticed by big organisations such as NASA and Rolls RoyceThe benefits of working with NZTE and how  joining ministerial visits gives you  credibility in JapanThe pitfalls of casualness in business and how FABRUM designed a way that helps customers have confidence in themThe long term vision for FABRUM in hydrogen and for Christchurch and New Zealand’s up and coming engineers. About ChrisChristopher Boyle is the co-founder and Executive Chair of FABRUM, a New Zealand company with the tagline of “advancing a world where people can do more, with less, for longer, by creating clean-tech solutions which enable humanity to tread lightly.“Christopher has been with FABRUM for over 20 years. He is an adventurer and serial entrepreneur, setting up a number of start-ups over the last two decades. After graduating from the University of Canterbury with an electrical engineering degree, Chris ventured into the power industry, which took him around the world in a range of different roles. When he returned home, a reunion with an old university mate led to the creation of FABRUM Solutions. Christopher was a Finalist in the EY New Zealand Entrepreneur Of The Year 2024FABRUM is a world leader in providing engineering and cryogenic technologies that help generate power. From designing cryogenic systems for major hydrogen plants to developing lightweight composite liquid hydrogen tanks for the aviation industry, FABRUM has a number of patents on bespoke pieces of technology. The company was driven by the goal to develop Kiwi renewable technology for global adoption, helping sectors like aviation, marine, and heavy industry transportation decarbonise.Japan’s Obayashi Corporation participated in FABRUM’s $23M Series A financing round in February 2023. Obayashi is one of the world’s leading construction companies with expertise and technological innovation and a long track record of projects in New Zealand. In August 2023, FABRUM collaborated with Obayashi Corporation on their first project together where FABRUM is the supplier of a Hydrogen Refuelling Station (HRS) package for a refuelling station project in Auckland. Recently, FABRUM’s proprietary storage solutions have achieved some impressive performance milestones. For example, their cutting-edge liquid hydrogen (LH2) storage technology has been shipped to the top car manufacturer in Japan (Toyota) for further research and development. Links:FABRUM: https://fabrum.nz/ 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 

We wanted to share our submission to the New Zealand Podcast Awards for 2024. Although we were certainly pipped at the post, we are so proud of the work we have done and thankful to the wonderful guests who have shared their experiences with us.Jandals" is a unique podcast focused on guiding New Zealand businesses entering the Japanese market. It exemplifies the power of going niche, offering extreme value to listeners who apply its insights directly to shape their Japan business strategies. The podcast features guests from a broad range of sectors, including sports, education, hospitality, F&B, forestry, seafood, tech, pet food, fitness, horticulture and logistics. These experts provide invaluable insights into every facet of the business relationship between New Zealand and Japan, sparking cross-sector collaborations. Budding NZ exporters often reach out to our guests for trusted, in-market advice.With its niche focus and measurable impact on businesses, careers and community, "Jandals" is a valuable platform to profile New Zealand-Japan business success.[00:00] Episode 45: Cookie Time lands a massive deal with Costco, a decade in the making. This frank discussion reveals what it's like working with this retail giant and why it’s not for everyone.[04:05] Episode 51: Jessica Tisch from FreshCo shares surprising insights on selling New Zealand's premium apples in Japan. From sustainability to Japan’s unexpected tech gap in agriculture, this episode explores the challenges of fruit exports and showcases how NZ agri-tech innovation is driving advancements in Japan's agricultural industry.[07:44] Episode 43: Joe Harawira tells the inspiring founder story behind Wai Mānuka  premium beverage brand born from a New Year’s Eve Kiwi BBQ. Now it’s a premium beverage export riding the wave in Japan. With Māori business values resonating well in Japan, the future looks bright for Wai Mānuka’s success.[10:54] Episode 52: We scored a major win with rugby legends Beauden Barrett and Aaron Smith, opening up about their time at Toyota Verblitz, what Japan has taught them and the pivotal role families play in their careers. Fun and insightful, we discover a different side of these sports icons boosting the business of rugby between Japan and NZ.

Lindsay Gray, Executive Chef at the Tokyo American Club, shares his culinary journey from New Zealand to Japan. Lindsay discusses his initial struggles and eventual appreciation for traditional Japanese dishes like Mozuku. He also talks about the challenges and rewards of managing a diverse kitchen in Japan, his approach to incorporating New Zealand ingredients into his menus, and tips for aspiring chefs looking to work 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 Lindsay came to be a chef in Japan and working his way into and to the top of the Tokyo American ClubHighlights of his cooking adventures here including cooking for baseball legend Hideki MatsuiLindsay’s predictions for the future of food and beverage Lindsay’s tips for working in the F&B industry in JapanAbout LindsayWelcome to Lindsay Gray who is the resident Kiwi and Executive Chef at the Tokyo American Club. Lindsay is an experienced executive chef with a demonstrated history of working in the hospitality industry in New Zealand and Japan. Lindsay studied at AIT in New Zealand and got the opportunity to work at the Four Seasons Regent Hotel in Auckland in his early days on an apprenticeship and it was there that his interest in Japan started. Lindsay has a strong operational background as a professional skilled in Catering, Menu Engineering, Food & Beverage, Concept Development, and P&L management experience is a particular strength. Lindsay lives by his motto that “Your hobby is your job”.LinksTanakada http://tanakada.net/tanakada/index.php Torigin https://torigin-ginza.jp/eng/ New Torigin http://www.tokyogalaxy.ac.jp/en/japanese-culture/new-torigin-ginza Kushimura https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g14129735-d1661911-Reviews-Kushimura-Roppongi_Minato_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html 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 

Hiroaki (Hans)Nagahara is the Head of Japan for Air New Zealand. We enjoyed this wonderful discussion about our favorite destinations in New Zealand, the evolution of Air New Zealand's services, and the cultural nuances of doing business in Japan. Hans shares personal anecdotes from his extensive career in the aviation industry. This engaging conversation also covers the impact of COVID-19 on travel, the importance of understanding local market needs, and the challenges and opportunities in the airline industry. 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 Air New Zealand has evolved since it landed in JapanWhat customer satisfaction looks like in Japan for air travelersThe percentage of Japanese people who know Air New Zealand and how the airline markets itself to JapanWhat’s happening with the extra capacity for Air New Zealand flights that has been announcedAbout Hiroaki (Hans)Hiroaki (Hans) Nagahara first joined Air New Zealand in 1990 and was with the airline for 19 years before you took up the opportunity to join Finnair in 2009 as the CEO of the Japan office.  Hiroaki rejoined Air New Zealand as the Japan Branch head in January 2024.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 

In this episode of the Jandals in Japan podcast, hosts Jayne and Catherine discuss various topics from the current rice shortage in Japan to the unique process of wine distribution with guest Stephanie Henderson-Grant, Managing Director of Ataahua Wines Limited in New Zealand. Stephanie shares her journey from working in the wool industry to establishing her own vineyard, winning the Double Gold Sakura Award at the Sakura Japan Women's Wine Awards, and overcoming the challenges of entering the Japanese market as a small-scale winemaker. The episode highlights the importance of patience, effective communication, and adaptability when navigating international markets.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 a small scale New Zealand winemaker was able to export to JapanWinning an award in Japan and what that means in the Japanese marketHow to work successfully with your Japan distributorThe importance of communication and patience when it comes to working with distributors from other countries, in this case, JapanAbout StephanieStephanie Henderson-Grant is the owner and managing director for Ataahua Wines Ltd.Stephanie’s love of wine and the NZ wine industry began almost 30 years ago when she started selling wine in NZ for a local wine producer. For the last 15 years, they have been producing wine under their own brand Ataahua Wine.Ataahua Waipara Sauvignon Blanc 2022 was recently awarded the “Double Gold Sakura Award” in the Sakura Japan Women's Wine Awards 2024 in Japan. Double Gold Wines have an average score at 93-100 points across all categories and just 6% of the total entries receive this award.Connect with StephanieWebsite: www.ataahuawine.co.nzInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ataahuawinesnz/ LinksAtaahua Wines for purchase in Japan: https://item.rakuten.co.jp/ohshu/hnz22aataahua6/ 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 

Misa Kitaoka is the Director of Education at Education New Zealand (ENZ) in Japan. She shares her experiences and insights into fostering educational exchanges between New Zealand and Japan. Misa highlights the role of lifelong learning and the changing dynamics of Japanese education that will surely influence what education exchange between New Zealand and Japan looks like in the future. We are also lucky to hear about Misa's memorable experiences during the recent visit to Japan of the New Zealand Prime Minister and the business delegation. 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 importance of the concept and depth of responsibility in JapanHow Misa came to be helping New Zealand to create lasting relationships in the education spaceMisa’s top advice for educators in New Zealand wanting to have Japanese students visitLifelong learning as a potential business opportunityAbout MisaMisa Kitaoka who is based in Tokyo and is currently serving as the Director of Education for Japan at Education New Zealand (ENZ). With her market expertise and network, Misa is committed to growing the New Zealand education market in Japan market. She enjoys the opportunity and challenge in utilising her multicultural background and language skills to strengthen education and cultural ties between Japan and New Zealand.Prior to ENZ, Misa worked for the Australian and New Zealand Chamber of Commerce in Japan as their Executive Director. There she was responsible for the promotion of and advocacy for Australian and New Zealand corporations in Japan. Misa has also worked in a wide range of finance roles as a CPA in the United States.Misa graduated with a BA in economics from Stanford University and a Masters in liberal studies at Columbia University. Misa sits on the board of directors of the Stanford Japan Alumni Association and is also an active member of the Stanford alumni group in New Zealand.Since 2021, Misa has been the partner of New Zealand Ambassador to Japan, Hamish Cooper. In addition to her role as ENZ's representative in Japan, Misa is an active participant in the Tokyo diplomatic community.Misa is very passionate about supporting the growth of NZ education and lifestyles in Japan and has an Instagram page @misako_kitaoka where you can always find her sharing her life, career and aspects about Japan and New Zealand life and culture.LinksPrime Minister’s Scholarship: https://scholarships.enz.govt.nz/ https://www.studywithnewzealand.govt.nz/ja 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