Jandals in Japan®

Jayne Nakata & Catherine O'Connell
  • 0.0 (0)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Updated Semimonthly

The best show about New Zealanders doing business in Japan, bringing The Land of the Long White Cloud to The Land of the Rising Sun How do you build a brand in Japan and nurture a loyal customer base? What do you need to have in your tool belt if you are thinking of coming to Japan to launch a business here? Japan is often considered to be in the "too hard" basket but we are here to open up the black box of doing business in Japan. We will share stories from successful Kiwis selling their products and services here in Japan. They'll tell you their tips for success and pitfalls to avoid. They'll share their challenges and what they did to overcome them. They will tell you things you can't find in textbooks or on the internet. We will also be sharing the latest intel and insights on Japan from our on-the-ground presence And you'll hear some super business culture and other tips from us sprinkled throughout. Grab a glass of sake and let's get into it.

  1. Peri Drysdale Shares Untouched World’s Japan Market Entry Story

    May 17

    Peri Drysdale Shares Untouched World’s Japan Market Entry Story

    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 Japan About Peri Peri 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. Links Untouched World: https://www.untouchedworld.com/en-int 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

    1h 1m
  2. The Kiwi Brothers Origin Story: Transforming Zespri Marketing in Japan with Kanako Inomata

    Apr 19

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

    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 ZealandHow Kanako and her team created the now-iconic Kiwi Brothers characters (and now their little sister “Ruby”)The importance of being consumer centric marketingKanako’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

    54 min
  3. Staying When It Gets Tough: How Glen Argyle Earned Trust and Built a Sustainable Business in Japan’s Pharmaceutical Industry

    Apr 5

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

    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 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

    53 min
  4. Grassroots Diplomacy: New Zealand's Deputy Head of Mission on Life, Culture, and Connection in Japan

    Feb 1

    Grassroots Diplomacy: New Zealand's Deputy Head of Mission on Life, Culture, and Connection in Japan

    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 here About Gareth Gareth 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. Links New 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 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

    55 min
  5. From Rugby Fields to Banking: Brandon Jackson on Building Bridges Between NZ and Japan

    Jan 18

    From Rugby Fields to Banking: Brandon Jackson on Building Bridges Between NZ and Japan

    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 Brandon Brandon 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 that help NZ businesses grow globally while also serving as a long-time coach and director in New Zealand Rugby. Links SYOS Aerospace: https://www.bnz.co.nz/business-banking/business-moments/syos-aerospace-how-a-tauranga-robotics-startup-has-taken-flight-globally Tomonoura, Hiroshima Prefecture: https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3432.html 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

    51 min
  6. Art, Ancestry and Adventure: Bridging Māori and Japanese Worldviews Through Artistic Creativity on Naoshima

    12/07/2025

    Art, Ancestry and Adventure: Bridging Māori and Japanese Worldviews Through Artistic Creativity on Naoshima

    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 Sarah Sarah 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. Links Setouchi 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 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

    47 min
  7. Prosperous Partnerships through Protein: Fonterra's B2B Success Story in Japan with Bryn Rowdon

    11/21/2025

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

    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 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

    46 min
  8. Lead Yourself First: Tabai Matson's Lessons from Rugby in Five Countries and Coaching the Ricoh Black Rams

    11/09/2025

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

    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 TokyoWhy 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 pathwaysTab’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

    1h 7m
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About

The best show about New Zealanders doing business in Japan, bringing The Land of the Long White Cloud to The Land of the Rising Sun How do you build a brand in Japan and nurture a loyal customer base? What do you need to have in your tool belt if you are thinking of coming to Japan to launch a business here? Japan is often considered to be in the "too hard" basket but we are here to open up the black box of doing business in Japan. We will share stories from successful Kiwis selling their products and services here in Japan. They'll tell you their tips for success and pitfalls to avoid. They'll share their challenges and what they did to overcome them. They will tell you things you can't find in textbooks or on the internet. We will also be sharing the latest intel and insights on Japan from our on-the-ground presence And you'll hear some super business culture and other tips from us sprinkled throughout. Grab a glass of sake and let's get into it.

Information

  • Creator
    Jayne Nakata & Catherine O'Connell
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    84
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Jayne Nakata & Catherine O'Connell
  • Show Website
    Jandals in Japan®

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