The Samurai Way: Mastering Business & Life with Samurai Wisdom

Lori Tsugawa
  • 5.0 (2)
  • 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. 3D AGO

    The Spirit of Ganbaru in Business and Innovation with ADMANITY® CEO, Brian Gregory

    In this episode of The Samurai Way, I sit down with Brian Gregory, CEO of ADMANITY®, author of fifteen books on marketing and copywriting, and a global authority on emotion based marketing. At the heart of our conversation is Ganbaru, the Japanese principle of perseverance, grit, and never giving up. Brian and I explore how this mindset shaped his life long before he ever had a name for it, beginning with his Olympic level training and continuing through his journey as an entrepreneur and innovator. Brian shares how relentless daily discipline, mental promises to himself, and a refusal to quit became the foundation for his success in business. We talk about the influence of his parents, the quiet lessons of work ethic and responsibility, and how those early experiences formed the armor he would later rely on in life. We also dive into the role of emotion in decision making and why people buy on emotion and justify with logic. Brian explains how years of observing failed advertising led him to create emotional algorithms and Primal AI, designed to help businesses identify the exact emotions that drive customers to say yes without the need for a large agency or massive budget. Brian also shares details about the free five minute YES Test and how it can help business owners better understand their emotional messaging and sales strategy. This episode is a reminder that the Samurai spirit still lives on today. It lives in those who refuse to quit, who continue to train when no one is watching, and who choose Ganbaru even when the path is difficult. If you are building a business, healing from hardship, or searching for the strength to keep going, this conversation will remind you why perseverance always matters. Connect with Brian Gregory Brian Gregory LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/briangregoryadmanity/ AdManity Website https://www.admanity.com Take the Free YES Test https://www.admanity.com/yes-test Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    28 min

  2. 12/31/2025

    Finding Meaning in Everyday Life with Saori Okada

    In this episode of The Samurai Way Podcast, I sit down with Saori Okada, a UKIH registered health coach, Japanese calligraphy artist, and the founder of Mogami Wellness in London. Saori grew up in Tokyo, built a corporate career in New York, and later returned to her Japanese roots after years of struggling with eating disorders and perfectionism. What stood out to me most was her insight that healing is not about fixing our relationship with food but about rebuilding our relationship with ourselves. Together, we explore what Ikigai truly means beyond the Venn diagram. We talk about finding meaning in everyday moments rather than chasing achievements, and how Japanese concepts like itadakimasu invite mindfulness and gratitude into something as simple as a meal. We also dive into Wabi Sabi, embracing imperfection and change, and how Kintsugi teaches us that our cracks and challenges can become our greatest sources of beauty and strength. Saori shares how stillness, discipline, and creating space in our lives are essential practices in a fast, overstimulated world. Throughout the conversation, I reflect on my own experiences, Japanese heritage, resilience, and the values of respect, service, and perseverance that continue to shape my work and life. Saori also shares insights from her upcoming book, The Wisdom of Ancient Japan: Timeless Lessons to Live By, a collection of sixty Japanese concepts designed to support mind, body, and soul. This episode is a reminder that purpose is not something we chase. It is something we live, one moment at a time. Connect with Saori Okada Website: https://www.mogamiwellness.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mogami_wellness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saori-okada/ Book: The Wisdom of Ancient Japan: Timeless Lessons to Live By Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    37 min

  3. 12/24/2025

    Finding Ikigai in Recovery: Kaizen, Purpose, and the Samurai Spirit

    In this episode, I sit down with Jared Bendifallah, a peer support group facilitator, speaker, and the creator of The Five Building Blocks of Recovery podcast. Jared has led over six hundred support groups with NAMI West Los Angeles and has spoken to countless middle school and high school students, helping to break the silence around mental health. Our conversation is heartfelt, honest, and deeply meaningful. We explore how the Japanese philosophies of Kaizen, continuous improvement, and Ikigai, what gives life meaning and fulfillment, can support the mental health recovery journey. Jared shares how focusing on small, steady progress helps people trust the recovery process, even when the path feels long and uncertain. We also talk about why true recovery is not just about stabilizing symptoms, but about finding purpose, direction, and something meaningful to live for. Jared opens up about his own journey, the years he spent without direction, and how the absence of Ikigai contributed to his mental health crisis. Through his work with NAMI, public speaking, and podcasting, he has found a sense of calling in helping others heal, grow, and rediscover hope. This episode is about resilience, compassion, and the courage to keep going one step at a time. It reflects the Samurai spirit of Ganbaru, never giving up, even when the road is difficult. If you or someone you love is navigating recovery, searching for purpose, or simply needs encouragement, I hope this conversation offers insight, comfort, and hope. Thank you for walking this path with me. LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jared-bendifallah/ Public Speaking and Resourceshttps://thefivebuildingblocksofrecovery.com Five Building Blocks of Recovery Podcast Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/63BOX5Rl5pF5kC24YV5Y4U Connect with Jared Bendifallah Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    25 min

  4. 12/18/2025

    Resilience Forged in Fire: Courage, Faith, and the Power of Never Giving Up with Ido Kalev

    I had the opportunity to have a heartfelt conversation with Ido Kalev, former senior commander in Israeli intelligence and aviation security, had over 30 years of international experience.  Ido shared how his years of military service leading operations in six countries to rebuilding lives after trauma, prepared him to share insights in resilience, leadership under pressure, and emotional intelligence.  He spoke about Kintsugi the Japanese art of  repairing broken pottery to emerge a finished product even more beautiful, and Ganbaru, the principle of never giving up. We also spoke about Hanukah, courage, resilience, and faith.  It also happened to be recorded on the second day of Hanukah.  The principles of courage, Ganbaru, and Kintsugi reminded me of Chiune Sugihara, the Japanese diplomat during WWII, who defied the Japanese government to write transit visas for Jewish refugees seeking escape.   You will want to check out Ido's recent book, "The Spy Who Led Me:   https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FMXZRMHZ?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title for more information.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    36 min

  5. 12/10/2025

    Taste & Tranquility: Japan in Autumn

    From the peaceful paths of Okayama Korakuen Garden to the rich seasonal flavors that fill every market and meal, this season invites us to experience Japan with all of our senses. The gardens here showcase harmony and balance, and their changing colors remind us of the cycles of life and the quiet strength found in transition. Autumn in Japan is also a season of nourishment. The foods of fall carry stories of heritage and gratitude, from sweet potatoes to chestnuts and warm comforting dishes enjoyed by families for generations. These traditions are beautifully highlighted in the articles and videos linked below, offering a glimpse into Japan's culinary heart. This week on The Samurai Way podcast, the episode Taste and Tranquility explores the depth of this season and the meaningful lessons it offers. Autumn teaches us to savor, reflect, and reconnect with what brings us joy and purpose. As I continue my journey through Japan, I am reminded that every trip is also an inner journey. The landscapes, stories, and flavors of autumn invite us to be fully present, to honor the moment we are in, and to carry these lessons back into our lives with intention. I look forward to sharing more photos, videos, and insights from this beautiful season in Japan. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    40 min

  6. 12/04/2025

    Leading with Kaizen: Lessons from a Global Leader with Ahmet Bozer

    In this episode of The Samurai Way, I have the honor of welcoming Ahmet Bozer, a global business leader and former President of Coca-Cola International. With a remarkable 30-year career leading teams across Eurasia and Africa, Ahmet distills decades of insight and experience into his new book, Soulgery: A Lifelong Guide to Unlocking Your Potential, a powerful framework that blends Eastern philosophy with Western practice to elevate leadership, resilience, and personal growth. In our conversation, Ahmet and I explore the timeless Japanese principles I teach, including Kaizen, the practice of continuous improvement, and Bushido, the way of the warrior. We discuss the balance between individual excellence and collective harmony and how these teachings, drawn from both ancient wisdom and modern business, shape not only stronger leaders but better human beings. Ahmet brings a depth of clarity and purpose that aligns beautifully with the heart of The Samurai Way. To learn more about his work and his book Soulgery, I invite you to visit his website: Links: https://soulgery.com/ https://soulgery.com/book-page/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    30 min

  7. 11/26/2025

    Kintsugi Your Heart Finding Courage and Beauty in Grief with Carol Banens

    In this heartfelt episode of The Samurai Way, I'm sitting down with Carol Banens, a grief educator, grief to gratitude coach, and author who has turned her own loss into a journey of hope and purpose. After losing her husband, Carol discovered healing through creative writing and poetry, drawing inspiration from the Japanese art of Kintsugi showing us how even broken pieces can be made beautiful again. We talk about how grief intersects with samurai wisdom, including the courage to keep going, the honesty to acknowledge your emotions, and the compassion to give yourself grace. Carol shares powerful poems from her work and reminds us that healing is a journey of patience, love, and small acts of bravery every single day. Some of the things we explore in this episode: • The physical and emotional impact of grief and why rest is essential • How our nervous system and sense of safety shape the healing process • Why community is so important and how connection supports recovery • The power of allowing uncomfortable emotions instead of pushing them away • How love, memory, and courage can come together to help us move forward Carol is also starting a new community for women navigating grief a safe, supportive space to be heard, to learn, and to heal together. If you'd like to connect with Carol, learn more about her programs, or grab her book, visit www.carolbanens.com. Her book Kintsugi Your Heart The Art of Living with Grief is a beautiful guide for anyone walking the path of loss. This episode is a reminder that grief changes us, but it doesn't have to break us. Even in the cracks, there is beauty, strength, and a way forward. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    35 min

  8. 11/19/2025

    The Spirit of a Modern Samurai Lessons from Patrick Dean

    In this episode of The Samurai Way, I am joined by international master coach, speaker, and transformational trainer Patrick Dean. Patrick has spent more than thirty five years guiding over forty thousand leaders around the world. His work blends the timeless wisdom of the samurai with modern leadership tools that help people step into clarity, intention, and their highest potential. Our conversation reminded me why these principles still matter so deeply today. We explore the power of commitment, clarity, and keeping your word, especially the promises you make to yourself. Patrick shares how his experiences in Japan shaped his understanding of leadership and why the samurai believed that true strength begins from within. Together, we reflect on ichi go ichi e, the reminder that every moment is unique and deserving of our full attention. We talk about the inner journey, the discipline of presence, and the quiet strength that comes from choosing to live the moment you are in rather than chase the next one. Patrick also offers meaningful insights into leadership, resilience, and healing, showing how Bushido principles can guide us through modern challenges with courage and compassion. If you are seeking personal growth, grounded purpose, or inspiration to never give up, this conversation will encourage you to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with what truly matters. Patrick brings the samurai path to life in a way that is both practical and deeply human. You can learn more about Patrick at patrickdeancoaching.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    32 min
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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

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