The Samurai Way: Mastering Business & Life with Samurai Wisdom

Lori Tsugawa
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Philosophy
  • Updated Weekly

Discover the timeless wisdom of Japan to live with purpose, resilience, and courage. Hosted by Lori Tsugawa, this podcast explores the powerful principles of Ikigai, Bushido, and Ganbaru — guiding you to unlock your inner warrior, embrace life's challenges, and step into your true purpose. Join us as we share inspiring stories, practical insights, and ancient philosophies to help you live The Samurai Way

  1. 1d ago

    Beyond Survival: Finding Joy, Gratitude & Purpose with Stephanie Vieira

    In this special two-part conversation on The Samurai Way Podcast, I sit down with Stephanie Vieira, an author, certified Ikigai life coach, speaker, and trauma survivor, to explore her powerful journey from trauma and survival to healing, gratitude, joy, and purpose.   Stephanie shares her story of growing up with abuse, experiencing coaching abuse as a young competitive swimmer, and eventually beginning the difficult but transformative journey of healing through recovery, therapy, shadow work, and mindfulness.   At a turning point in her life, Stephanie asked the universe for guidance. The answer was gratitude.   That discovery became a doorway to something deeper: Ikigai.   Together, we explore Ikigai beyond the Western Venn diagram and career-focused formula. Stephanie shares how reconnecting with the things she loved as a child helped her rediscover parts of herself that had been buried by trauma, and how small moments of joy can become meaningful reasons to engage with life.   We also talk about something many of us can relate to: losing our identity in our careers. After more than two decades in hospitality, Stephanie realized she had become defined by her job title. Today, she helps others discover that their career does not define them. Who you are goes much deeper than what you do.   And perhaps one of the most powerful lessons from our conversation is that gratitude does not mean ignoring pain.   Pain and gratitude can coexist.   Stephanie explains how her past is part of her story, but it doesn't have to be part of her present. By practicing mindfulness, noticing the small things, and reconnecting with what brings us joy, we can begin moving from survival toward a life of greater meaning and purpose.   This is a conversation about healing, resilience, gratitude, identity, and Ikigai.   If you've ever felt lost, defined by your career, disconnected from yourself, or unsure of your purpose, Stephanie's story offers a beautiful reminder:   You can heal. You can rediscover yourself. And you can find joy again.   Join us for both episodes of The Samurai Way Podcast as Stephanie and I explore the journey from trauma to healing, from survival to gratitude, and from gratitude to Ikigai.   Connect with Stephanie: Website: https://www.coachstephnewpaths.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-vieira-ikigainewpaths/... Book: https://www.amazon.com/Art-Gratitude-Practices-Rebuild-Neurodivergent-Friendly/dp/B0G3M6LQR6 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Beyond Survival: Finding Joy, Gratitude & Purpose with Stephanie Vieira

  2. 1d ago ·  Bonus

    You Might Also Like: The Oprah Podcast

    Introducing The Correspondent: The Story Behind the Unexpected Bestseller Everyone is Reading from The Oprah Podcast. Follow the show: The Oprah Podcast BUY THE BOOK! The Correspondent by Virginia Evans https://amzn.to/4xasavH Oprah sits down with Virginia Evans, author of the story readers can’t stop talking about: The Correspondent. Selling over two million copies and translated into over 35 languages it’s the book that has captured readers. Although it's her first published novel, it's the eighth book Virginia's written and one she never intended anyone else to read. When The Correspondent debuted it sold fewer than 8,000 copies. However, readers who discovered it fell in love and began recommending the novel to others, turning this book into a word-of-mouth phenomenon and a New York Times bestseller. Virginia shares the remarkable story behind the book she never expected to publish. Listeners will discover why Sybil Van Antwerp—a complex, prolific letter writer in her seventies—has resonated so deeply with readers of all ages. Oprah also speaks with readers around the country who have questions for Virginia. 00:00:00 - Welcome Virginia Evans, author of ‘The Correspondent’  00:04:00 - Her 20 year journey to getting published 00:07:10 - Questioning if she would ever publish  00:08:46 - How she wrote the book  00:12:00 - How the main character came to Virginia  00:14:55 - Oprah's favorite passage  00:16:16 - What letter writing allows us to say  00:19:50 - What we learn from other letters 00:25:30 - Does a letter need a reply?  00:30:00 - Loneliness  00:34:20 - Writing what you’re afraid of 00:39:40 - What she wants listeners to do  Follow Oprah Winfrey on Social: https://www.instagram.com/oprahpodcast/ https://www.facebook.com/oprahwinfrey/ Listen to the full podcast:  https://open.spotify.com/show/0tEVrfNp92a7lbjDe6GMLI https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-oprah-podcast/id1782960381 DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to team@podroll.fm.

    You Might Also Like: The Oprah Podcast

  3. 2d ago

    From Trauma to Ikigai: Stephanie Vieira’s Journey of Healing

    In this special two-part conversation on The Samurai Way Podcast, I sit down with Stephanie Vieira, an author, certified Ikigai life coach, speaker, and trauma survivor, to explore her powerful journey from trauma and survival to healing, gratitude, joy, and purpose.   Stephanie shares her story of growing up with abuse, experiencing coaching abuse as a young competitive swimmer, and eventually beginning the difficult but transformative journey of healing through recovery, therapy, shadow work, and mindfulness.   At a turning point in her life, Stephanie asked the universe for guidance. The answer was gratitude.   That discovery became a doorway to something deeper: Ikigai.   Together, we explore Ikigai beyond the Western Venn diagram and career-focused formula. Stephanie shares how reconnecting with the things she loved as a child helped her rediscover parts of herself that had been buried by trauma, and how small moments of joy can become meaningful reasons to engage with life.   We also talk about something many of us can relate to: losing our identity in our careers. After more than two decades in hospitality, Stephanie realized she had become defined by her job title. Today, she helps others discover that their career does not define them. Who you are goes much deeper than what you do.   And perhaps one of the most powerful lessons from our conversation is that gratitude does not mean ignoring pain.   Pain and gratitude can coexist.   Stephanie explains how her past is part of her story, but it doesn't have to be part of her present. By practicing mindfulness, noticing the small things, and reconnecting with what brings us joy, we can begin moving from survival toward a life of greater meaning and purpose.   This is a conversation about healing, resilience, gratitude, identity, and Ikigai.   If you've ever felt lost, defined by your career, disconnected from yourself, or unsure of your purpose, Stephanie's story offers a beautiful reminder:   You can heal. You can rediscover yourself. And you can find joy again.   Join us for both episodes of The Samurai Way Podcast as Stephanie and I explore the journey from trauma to healing, from survival to gratitude, and from gratitude to Ikigai.   Connect with Stephanie: Website: https://www.coachstephnewpaths.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-vieira-ikigainewpaths/... Book: https://www.amazon.com/Art-Gratitude-Practices-Rebuild-Neurodivergent-Friendly/dp/B0G3M6LQR6 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    From Trauma to Ikigai: Stephanie Vieira’s Journey of Healing

  4. Aug 14

    A New Beginning: How Sara Im Turned Survival into Purpose

    In Part 3, the final chapter of my powerful conversation with award-winning author, speaker, and resilience coach Sara Im, we continue her extraordinary journey from the Cambodian Killing Fields toward freedom, family, hope, and a new beginning. Sara survived starvation, forced labor, illness, fear, and unimaginable uncertainty under the Khmer Rouge regime. Through it all, she held onto one powerful goal: to survive and someday be reunited with her family. In this final part of her story, we explore what happened after years of hardship and survival, and how Sara found the strength to move forward and build a life filled with purpose. In this episode, we discuss: Sara's journey toward freedom and a new beginning The importance of family, faith, and hope in her life How she learned to move forward after unimaginable adversity How her experiences shaped her purpose and mission The resilience it takes to rebuild your life after trauma How Sara's story reflects the Japanese principle of Ganbaru Sara's story reminds us that our darkest chapter does not have to be the end of our story. Sometimes, surviving is just the beginning. Her journey is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and a reminder that hope, purpose, and perseverance can help us create a new beginning. If Sara's story inspires you, please subscribe to The Samurai Way Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs a reminder that it is never too late to move forward. Until next time, keep living with courage, honor, and the spirit of Ganbaru. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    A New Beginning: How Sara Im Turned Survival into Purpose

  5. Aug 13

    The Courage to Escape: Sarah Im's Story of Survival

    In Part 2 of The Samurai Way Podcast, I continue my powerful conversation with award-winning author, speaker, and resilience coach Sara Im as she shares the next chapter of her extraordinary journey of survival during the Cambodian Killing Fields. After enduring starvation, forced labor, illness, fear, and separation from her family, Sara faced an unimaginable question: how do you keep going when you don't know if tomorrow will be any better? Yet Sara held onto one thing that could not be taken from her: hope. Her love for her family became a source of strength and gave her a reason to keep moving forward, even when she had no idea when the suffering would end. In this episode, we explore: How Sara continued to survive despite worsening conditions The fear and uncertainty of being separated from her family How love became her motivation to keep going Why having a purpose can give us strength in the darkest moments The connection between Sara's resilience and the Japanese principle of Ganbaru What courage looks like when you are simply trying to survive another day Sara's story reminds us that courage isn't always a dramatic act. Sometimes, courage is simply choosing not to give up. And her journey isn't over. In Part 3, we continue Sara's story and discover what happened next as she moved closer to freedom, reunion, and a new chapter of her life. If Sara's story moves you, please subscribe to The Samurai Way Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs a reminder that hope can carry us through even the darkest moments. Until next time, keep living with courage, honor, and the spirit of Ganbaru. About Sara Im Sara Im is an award-winning author, international speaker, resilience coach, and survivor of the Cambodian genocide. After enduring the horrors of the Khmer Rouge regime, she transformed her extraordinary story of survival into a mission of inspiring others to live with resilience, faith, hope, and purpose while enduring the Killing Fields. Through her speaking, writing, and coaching, Sara empowers individuals and organizations to overcome adversity, embrace purpose, and discover the strength to persevere through life's greatest challenges. Her journey is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the life-changing power of never giving up. Website: https://www.saraim.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-im/ Subscribe to The Samurai Way Podcast for inspiring conversations on Japanese wisdom, resilience, leadership, history, and living a meaningful life. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    The Courage to Escape: Sarah Im's Story of Survival

  6. Aug 5

    Surviving the Cambodian Killing Fields with Sara Im

    In this powerful episode of The Samurai Way Podcast, I have the privilege of sitting down with award-winning author, speaker, and resilience coach Sara Im to hear one of the most extraordinary stories of courage I've ever encountered.   Sara survived the Cambodian Killing Fields under the Khmer Rouge regime, enduring unimaginable hardship, starvation, forced labor, and illness. Yet through it all, she never lost sight of one goal: to survive and be reunited with her family.   As I listened to Sara share her journey, I couldn't help but think of the Japanese principle of Ganbaru—the unwavering determination to keep moving forward, even when the path seems impossible. Her story is a remarkable example of resilience, hope, and the incredible strength of the human spirit.   In this episode, we discuss:   Sara's peaceful childhood before everything changed   What life was really like inside the Cambodian labor camps   How love for her family gave her the strength to keep going   Why purpose can be the key to surviving life's greatest challenges   How the spirit of Ganbaru can inspire us to face our own adversity   This is Part 1 of Sara's incredible journey, and I promise you'll be on the edge of your seat as her story unfolds. Be sure to join us for Part 2, where you'll discover what happened next and how hope continued to guide her forward.   If Sara's story encourages you, please subscribe to The Samurai Way Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs a reminder that even in our darkest moments, hope and perseverance can light the way.   Until next time, keep living with courage, honor, and the spirit of Ganbaru.   About Sara Im Sara Im is an award-winning author, international speaker, resilience coach, and survivor of the Cambodian genocide. After enduring the horrors of the Khmer Rouge regime, she transformed her extraordinary story of survival into a mission of inspiring others to live with resilience, faith, hope, and purpose.   Through her speaking, writing, and coaching, Sara empowers individuals and organizations to overcome adversity, embrace purpose, and discover the strength to persevere through life's greatest challenges. Her journey is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the life-changing power of never giving up.   Website: https://www.saraim.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-im/   🎧 Subscribe to The Samurai Way Podcast for inspiring conversations on Japanese wisdom, resilience, leadership, history, and living a meaningful life. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Surviving the Cambodian Killing Fields with Sara Im

  7. Jul 29

    Honoring the Legacy of the 100th Infantry and the 442nd Regimental Combat Team with Harold Payne

    In Part 2 of this special conversation, Lori Tsugawa Whaley welcomes back Harold Payne, acclaimed songwriter, TEDx speaker, and storyteller, to explore the powerful legacy of the 100th Infantry Battalion, affectionately known as "One Puka Puka," and the Japanese American soldiers whose courage changed history. Harold shares the heartfelt story behind writing his song "One Puka Puka," a moving tribute to the soldiers of the 100th Infantry Battalion. Together, Lori and Harold discuss why preserving these stories matters and how music can keep the legacy of these quiet heroes alive for future generations. Together, Lori and Harold explore: The meaning behind "One Puka Puka" and why the song was written The legacy of the 100th Infantry Battalion and its role in history How the 100th became part of the legendary 442nd Regimental Combat Team Why the stories of these quiet heroes deserve to be remembered How music and storytelling preserve courage, sacrifice, and the samurai spirit   This episode is a heartfelt tribute to the Japanese American soldiers who served with extraordinary bravery during World War II and a reminder that the greatest heroes are often those who seek no recognition. About Harold Payne Harold Payne is a multi-platinum songwriter, TEDx speaker, and master improviser. His songs have been recorded by Rod Stewart, Patti LaBelle, Lana Del Rey, Snoop Dogg, Kelly Rowland, Bobby Womack, and many other acclaimed artists. Through his music and storytelling, Harold continues to inspire audiences while honoring the people and stories that deserve to be remembered. Website: www.haroldpaynemusic.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haroldlpayne/ 🎧 Subscribe to The Samurai Way Podcast for inspiring conversations on Japanese wisdom, resilience, leadership, history, and living a meaningful life.     Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Honoring the Legacy of the 100th Infantry and the 442nd Regimental Combat Team with Harold Payne

  8. Jul 22

    Quiet Heroes: Honoring the 100th/442nd with Harold Payne

    In this episode of The Samurai Way Podcast, Lori Tsugawa sits down with Harold Payne, a multi-platinum songwriter, TEDx speaker, and master improviser whose songs have been recorded by legendary artists including Rod Stewart, Patti LaBelle, Lana Del Rey, Snoop Dogg, Kelly Rowland, and his longtime collaborator Bobby Womack. Harold shares the remarkable story of how a student studying Spanish, linguistics, and teaching English as a Second Language at UCLA found his true calling through music. Starting with a ukulele, then a guitar, and eventually performing in a Motown-style R&B band, Harold built a career that has spanned decades and touched audiences around the world. Together, Lori and Harold explore: How following your passion can transform your life The unexpected twists that lead to purpose Creativity, resilience, and lifelong learning Lessons from a lifetime of songwriting and performing Why it's never too late to pursue what truly inspires you Whether you're a musician, entrepreneur, creative professional, or simply searching for your own purpose, Harold's journey is a powerful reminder that success often begins with having the courage to follow your heart. About Harold Payne Harold Payne is a multi-platinum songwriter, TEDx speaker, and master improviser. His songs have been recorded by Rod Stewart, Patti LaBelle, Lana Del Rey, Snoop Dogg, Kelly Rowland, and many other acclaimed artists. Throughout his career, he has inspired audiences worldwide through his music, storytelling, and passion for creativity. Website: www.haroldpaynemusic.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haroldlpayne/ Subscribe to The Samurai Way Podcast for inspiring conversations on purpose, resilience, leadership, Japanese wisdom, and living a meaningful life. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Quiet Heroes: Honoring the 100th/442nd with Harold Payne
See All (78)

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Discover the timeless wisdom of Japan to live with purpose, resilience, and courage. Hosted by Lori Tsugawa, this podcast explores the powerful principles of Ikigai, Bushido, and Ganbaru — guiding you to unlock your inner warrior, embrace life's challenges, and step into your true purpose. Join us as we share inspiring stories, practical insights, and ancient philosophies to help you live The Samurai Way

Information