The FocusCore Podcast

Dr. David Sweet
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Meet interesting and inspiring and entertaining people who show why Japan is a unique, fulfilling and sometimes frustrating place to do business. We will discuss how to hire, train and retain talent. How to create values that motivate, and review best practices that have worked and attempts that have failed. David will be speaking to company presidents, CEOs, CFOs, HR professionals, coaches, consultants as well as sharing with you some of my own experiences and opinions discovered over the years in this great country. The focus is simple: To explore how to succeed in business in Japan.

  1. Navigating Japan's FinTech Landscape with Pieter Franken

    2D AGO

    Navigating Japan's FinTech Landscape with Pieter Franken

    In this episode of the FocusCore podcast, host David Sweet interviews Pieter Franken, a FinTech pioneer and innovator with a rich history in finance, technology, and regulation. Pieter outlines his journey from a trainee scientist in Holland to becoming a key figure in Japan's FinTech ecosystem. He shares his experiences and significant contributions, including his roles at Citigroup, Shinsei Bank, and the Monetary Authority of Singapore, as well as his co-founding of Safecast, a crucial citizen science project post-Fukushima. The conversation delves into the evolution of FinTech globally and in Japan, discussing the impact of cloud computing, APIs, and mobile technology, as well as governmental roles in stimulating innovation. Pieter also talks about the upcoming Global Finance and Technology Network Forum (GFTN) in Tokyo, highlighting its importance for FinTech discussion and networking. Additionally, he touches upon the complexity of integrating new technologies into human systems and stresses the need for adaptive, human-centric innovations. The 2026 FocusCore Salary Guide is here: 2026 Salary Guide In this episode you will hear: Pieter Franken's journey from Holland to Japan and his pivotal role in the FinTech industryThe evolution of Japan's startup ecosystem and cultural shifts in recent decadesThe role and impact of cloud computing and mobile technology in FinTech's growthThe establishment of Safecast and its significance in citizen science and data transparencyThe importance and anticipation of the Global Finance and Technology Network Forum in fostering industry dialogue and innovation About Pieter: Pieter is a fintech pioneer, deep-tech innovator, and builder with over three decades at the intersection of finance, technology, regulation, and public good. He’s held senior leadership roles at institutions like Citigroup, Shinsei Bank, Monex, and UnionDigital Bank; advised regulators including the Monetary Authority of Singapore; and helped build global platforms focused on financial inclusion, open data, and responsible innovation. He’s also a co-founder of Safecast, one of the most influential citizen-science projects in the world, and a driving force behind Japan’s fintech ecosystem through Elevandi and the Japan Fintech Festival. Connect with Pieter: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pbfranken/ GFTN Japan: http://gftn.co/japan GFTN Forum[Feb 24-27th 2026]: https://gftnforum.jp/?utm_medium=paid-search&utm_source=google&utm_term=gftn%20japan&utm_content=branded-insights-learning&utm_campaign=gfj_2026_jp_search_traffic_280126&_gl=1*1uvuohl*_up*MQ..*_gs*MQ..&gclid=Cj0KCQiA7rDMBhCjARIsAGDBuEBY1bz21ngvAnJufNmlwr_Kxe4Ku6uz1R5I6beSQvq5Qiv7h2aZCHkaAmI3EALw_wcB&gbraid=0AAAAAqxUcYm4HHIROSay5zHtoL9JyGrmm Connect with David Sweet: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdavidsweet/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/focuscorejp Facebook: :https://www.facebook.com/focuscoreasia Instagram: a...

    58 min
  2. Business Transformation Journey and Sustainability in Japan with Paul Beddie

    JAN 31

    Business Transformation Journey and Sustainability in Japan with Paul Beddie

    In this episode of the FocusCore podcast, host David Sweet interviews Paul Beddie, a global business development executive and sustainability advocate with a 30-year career. Paul shares his accidental journey to Japan and his extensive experience working across various sectors, including management consulting and software. He provides insights on the challenges and nuances of leadership in Japan, emphasizing the importance of building relationships and adapting to cultural contexts. The discussion also delves into sustainability, where Paul highlights the need for a holistic approach in businesses and the urgent shift required from fossil fuels to renewable energy. Despite the complexities, Paul remains optimistic about the potential for profitability through sustainable practices. The 2026 FocusCore Salary Guide is here: 2026 Salary Guide In this episode you will hear: How Paul pioneered his path from international affairs to global business leadershipWhat foreign leaders often misunderstand about Japan's business environmentChallenges and opportunities in promoting corporate sustainability within Japanese and global contextsThe critical importance of relationship building in Japan's business cultureThe impact of personal belief and responsibility in achieving successful career outcomes About Paul: Paul is a global business development executive, a sustainability champion, and one of those rare leaders who can really talk through a purpose and proposal without sounding dull. He's got a great 30 year career. He's delivered more than a hundred million in profit and helped create over a billion dollars in value. With leading multicultural teams across four continents. He's advised CXOs and boards on digital transformation, energy transition, and global expansion. He's launched businesses in China. He's guided smart city innovation and taught some of Japan's top universities and built relationships at the highest levels of industry. And at his core, Paul is a connector of people, ideas and possibilities, and he carries a simple North Star: do the right thing. Connect with Paul: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulbeddie/ The FutureMax Institute: https://www.futuremaxinstitute.com/ Connect with David Sweet: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdavidsweet/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/focuscorejp Facebook: :https://www.facebook.com/focuscoreasia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/focuscorejp/ Website: https://www.japan.focuscoregroup.com/ This podcast was proudly produced by Lisa Yasuda. “Doin’ the Uptown Lowdown,” used by permission of Christopher Davis-Shannon. To find out more, check out www.thetinman.co. Support independent musicians and...

    54 min
  3. FocusCore New Year Reflections and Predictions

    JAN 14

    FocusCore New Year Reflections and Predictions

    Welcome to the Year of the Horse, and to another episode of the FocusCore podcast. Kicking off 2026, David Sweet reflects on the last year for FocusCore. He discusses some highlights and some insights into what the organization has seen happen over 2025. David also predicts what he thinks might happen in 2026 in the recruitment and talent acquisition landscape in Japan. The 2026 FocusCore Salary Guide is here: INSERT Short Link => Attribution link Salary guide 202 In this episode you will hear: The impact of FocusCore becoming a partner with IIC Partners for global recruitment solutions.Key insights from Salary Guide 2026, highlighting the increasing importance of competitive salaries.Strategies for SMEs in Japan to compete in talent acquisition.The growing demand for CFOs with cross-border expertise.How companies are leveraging interim executives for strategic advantage.The impact of AI and tech advancements in Japan Connect with David Sweet: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdavidsweet/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/focuscorejp Facebook: :https://www.facebook.com/focuscoreasia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/focuscorejp/ Website: https://www.japan.focuscoregroup.com/ This podcast was proudly produced by Lisa Yasuda. “Doin’ the Uptown Lowdown,” used by permission of Christopher Davis-Shannon. To find out more, check out www.thetinman.co. Support independent musicians and artists.

    22 min
  4. Winter Re-release #3 - Driving DHL’s Growth and Leadership in Japan with Karsten Michaelis

    JAN 4

    Winter Re-release #3 - Driving DHL’s Growth and Leadership in Japan with Karsten Michaelis

    As we step into the New Year and take a moment to reset after the holiday season, this episode marks the final Winter re-release before we return with brand-new content. To start the year on a thoughtful note, we’re revisiting one of this year’s most popular episodes, perfect to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea as you reflect on the year that’s passed and look ahead to what’s next, just like David will be. Thank you for being with us through the Winter re-releases, and we’ll see you very soon with new episodes in the year ahead. In this episode of the FocusCore Podcast, host David Sweet interviews Karsten Michaelis, CEO for North Asia and President of DHL Global Forwarding Japan. Karsten shares his extensive experience in the logistics industry, with a particular focus on his leadership journey across various Asian countries, including Japan. He discusses the unique challenges and strategies involved in managing teams in Japan, the importance of adapting to local cultures while maintaining core management principles, and the necessity of bridging the gap between headquarters and local expectations. Additionally, Karsten touches on fostering innovation, sustainability efforts at DHL, and the evolving landscape of logistics, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation provides valuable insights into the complexities of global logistics and effective leadership in a multicultural environment. The 2026 FocusCore Salary Guide is here: 2026 Salary Guide In this episode you will hear: Karsten's strategies for adapting leadership approaches across different culturesThe importance of understanding and bridging HQ and local expectations in JapanInsights into fostering innovation and responsive leadership within a global organizationHow DHL is leveraging digital tools and AI to drive operational excellenceSustainable business practices and the future of logistics in a carbon-neutral worldKarsten's personal reflections on motivation and leadership development in the logistics industry About Karsten: Currently the CEO North Asia and President/Representative Director of DHL Global Forwarding Japan, Karsten is responsible for the overall strategy and development of our business in Japan, Korea, Mongolia and Philippines, which encompasses air- and oceanfreight, customs clearance, industrial projects, ocean bulk, motorsports as well as some warehouse activities. Karsten brings over two decades of forwarding experience with him which began in Germany in 1996. Since 2002, he has been working in Asia Pacific with postings in Hong Kong, Bangladesh, Australia and Singapore. Prior to his current role, Karsten held several positions with DHL Global Forwarding, heading the oceanfreight team in Asia Pacific he was responsible for the development of the ocean freight business spanning 21 countries across Asia Pacific. Karsten graduated with Honors in Business and Management Studies from Oxford Brookes University. He currently sits on the Asia Pacific Management Board for DHL Global Forwarding and is based in Tokyo. Connect with Karsten: LinkedIn: a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/karsten-michaelis-7074955/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    46 min
  5. Winter Re-release #2 - Strategic Finance and Business Transformation in Japan with Taisuke Yoshida

    12/14/2025

    Winter Re-release #2 - Strategic Finance and Business Transformation in Japan with Taisuke Yoshida

    During the month of December, as the year winds down and the holiday season begins, we’ll be taking a short break from recording new episodes. To keep you company during the festive period, we’ll be re-releasing some of this year’s most popular episodes, perfect to enjoy with a warm drink by your side as you reflect on the year, just like David will be. In this episode of the FocusCore podcast, host David engages in a deep conversation with Taisuke Yoshida, a dynamic leader in strategic finance and business transformation. Taisuke shares his journey from Sumitomo Chemical to his current role at Schneider Electric, highlighting the evolution of finance from traditional bookkeeping to a value-driver function. They discuss the importance of leadership and digital skills in FP&A, the differences in FP&A practices between Japanese and global companies, and the role of strategic finance business partnering. Taisuke also provides insights into leveraging generative AI for business understanding and the significance of effective communication and trust-building in cross-functional teams. The conversation provides valuable perspectives for finance professionals aiming to drive business performance and value creation. The latest FocusCore Salary Guide is here: 2026 Salary Guide In this episode you will hear: Taisuke’s career progression and leadership development from local to global contextsThe importance of leadership and digital acumen for future finance professionals.How Japanese companies can leverage FP&A as business partners.Challenges and opportunities in Japanese FP&A practices. Things mentioned in the episode: The Mind Of The Strategist: The Art of Japanese Business - Kenichi Ohmae https://www.amazon.com.au/Mind-Strategist-Art-Japanese-Business/dp/0070479046 三枝匡(Tadashi Saegusa) https://www.amazon.co.jp/%E6%9C%AC-%E4%B8%89%E6%9E%9D-%E5%8C%A1/s?rh=n%3A465392%2Cp_27%3A%25E4%25B8%2589%25E6%259E%259D%2B%25E5%258C%25A1 『実践　日本版ＦＰ＆Ａ』池側千絵 https://www.amazon.co.jp/%E5%AE%9F%E8%B7%B5-%E6%97%A5%E6%9C%AC%E7%89%88%EF%BC%A6%EF%BC%B0%EF%BC%86%EF%BC%A1-%E6%B1%A0%E5%81%B4%E5%8D%83%E7%B5%B5/dp/450253191X Loglass経営企画サミット https://www.loglass.jp/news/event-0417 About Taisuke Yoshida:  After graduating from the University of Tokyo, Taisuke began his career at Sumitomo Chemical, where he mastered the art of cost management and performance improvement at both the factory and division levels. Driven to expand his global perspective, he earned his MBA from IESE Business School in Spain. He then joined Industrial Growth Platform, Inc. (IGPI), advising CEOs and investors on business due diligent post-merger integration and management control systems across multiple industries.  Taisuke is currently at Schneider Electric as the East Asia industrial automation business finance leader, partnering with business heads across the region to shape and execute strategies that improve performance and create enterprise value beyond the impressive credentials. Taisuke...

    52 min
  6. Winter Re-release #1 - Balancing Performance and Wellness with Menya Hinga

    11/30/2025

    Winter Re-release #1 - Balancing Performance and Wellness with Menya Hinga

    During the month of December, as the year winds down and the holiday season begins, we’ll be taking a short break from recording new episodes. To keep you company during the festive period, we’ll be re-releasing some of this year’s most popular episodes, perfect to enjoy with a warm drink by your side as you reflect on the year, just like David will be. In this episode of the FocusCore Podcast, host David Sweet interviews Menya Hinga, a certified health coach and co-founder of SOGO Fitness. The discussion revolves around the challenges high-performing professionals face in maintaining their health while balancing work and personal life. Menya shares his personal journey from aspiring lawyer to health coach, emphasizing the importance of sleep, nutrition, fitness, and stress management. He also discusses his approach to sustainable habit formation and offers practical tips for achieving long-term health and fitness goals. In this episode you will hear: Menya’s journey into Health and FitnessImportance of  the Big Four: Food, Fitness, Sleep, and StressWhy sleep and nutrition are often neglected by busy professionalsThe role of stress management in achieving overall well-beingImpacting Lives Through Fitness The latest FocusCore Salary Guide is here: 2026 Salary Guide About Menya: Menya Hinga is a Tokyo-based health coach who helps busy professionals simplify fitness. Originally from Massachusetts, he’s spent over 13 years helping people get stronger, leaner, and feel better in their bodies. He is the founder of MH Health Coaching and co-founder of SOGO Fitness. He is also a  level one certified functional strength coach, a level one certified nutrition coach, a certified personal trainer. Menya blends practical strategies with proven systems to help clients build habits that last. When he’s not coaching, he’s reading, playing piano, or getting a workout in by chasing his four kids around the house. Connect with Menya: Website: https://www.menyahinga.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/menyahinga/ Connect with David Sweet: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdavidsweet/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/focuscorejp  Facebook: :https://www.facebook.com/focuscoreasia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/focuscorejp/  Website: https://www.japan.focuscoregroup.com/  “Doin’ the Uptown Lowdown,” used by permission of Christopher Davis-Shannon. To find out more, check out www.thetinman.co. Support independent musicians and artists.

    1h 6m
  7. B2B Marketing Innovation in Japan with Robert Heldt

    11/14/2025

    B2B Marketing Innovation in Japan with Robert Heldt

    In this episode of the FocusCore Podcast, host David Sweet interviews Robert Heldt, Co-founder and CEO of Custom Media, a B2B marketing agency based in Tokyo. Robert shares his journey from his hospitality background to becoming a leader in digital marketing and strategic communications in Japan. He emphasizes the cultural differences in marketing between Japan and the West, particularly the importance of humility, relationship-building, and contextualized storytelling. Robert introduces the AIM framework (Adapt, Implement, Maximize) used by his agency to help global brands succeed in the Japanese market. The conversation covers the impact of AI on content creation, the importance of localization beyond translation, and the unique challenges faced by B2B brands in Japan. The 2026 FocusCore Salary Guide is here:  2026 Salary Guide In this episode you will hear: Robert's journey from a hospitality background to founding Custom Media, a leading B2B marketing agency in Tokyo.The importance of understanding cultural nuances in Japan and how marketing strategies must be adapted for local audiences.Insights into storytelling in a Japanese context and the emphasis on humility and group values over bold self-promotion.An overview of the AIM framework (Adapt, Implement, Maximize) and its application in helping global brands succeed in Japan.The role of AI in content creation, demand generation, and the evolving landscape of marketing within the B2B sector. About Robert: Robert Heldt is an accomplished entrepreneur and thought leader with over 17 years of experience in digital marketing and strategic communications. He advises global brands on market entry and expansion in Japan, driven by a passion for leveraging storytelling to achieve results in B2B PR and marketing. Robert holds an MBA from McGill and a Digital Transformation Platform Strategies qualification from MIT Sloan. He serves as the APAC President for AMIN Worldwide, a global network of independent advertising and marketing agencies, and is a Vice-Chair on both the PR & Marketing Committee of the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan and the PR Worldwide Alliance. Connect with Robert:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertheldt/  AIM B2B: https://aim-b2b.com/ Custom Media: https://custom-media.com/ 2025 Content Marketing Report: https://aim-b2b.com/blog/longform/content-marketing-japan-2025-insights/ Connect with David Sweet: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdavidsweet/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/focuscorejp  Facebook: :https://www.facebook.com/focuscoreasia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/focuscorejp/  Website: https://www.japan.focuscoregroup.com/  This podcast was proudly produced by Lisa...

    50 min
  8. Driving DHL’s Growth and Leadership in Japan with Karsten Michaelis

    10/31/2025

    Driving DHL’s Growth and Leadership in Japan with Karsten Michaelis

    In this episode of the FocusCore Podcast, host David Sweet interviews Karsten Michaelis, CEO for North Asia and President of DHL Global Forwarding Japan. Karsten shares his extensive experience in the logistics industry, with a particular focus on his leadership journey across various Asian countries, including Japan. He discusses the unique challenges and strategies involved in managing teams in Japan, the importance of adapting to local cultures while maintaining core management principles, and the necessity of bridging the gap between headquarters and local expectations. Additionally, Karsten touches on fostering innovation, sustainability efforts at DHL, and the evolving landscape of logistics, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation provides valuable insights into the complexities of global logistics and effective leadership in a multicultural environment. The 2026 FocusCore Salary Guide is here:  2026 Salary Guide In this episode you will hear: Karsten's strategies for adapting leadership approaches across different culturesThe importance of understanding and bridging HQ and local expectations in JapanInsights into fostering innovation and responsive leadership within a global organizationHow DHL is leveraging digital tools and AI to drive operational excellenceSustainable business practices and the future of logistics in a carbon-neutral worldKarsten's personal reflections on motivation and leadership development in the logistics industry About Karsten: Currently the CEO North Asia and President/Representative Director of DHL Global Forwarding Japan, Karsten is responsible for the overall strategy and development of our business in Japan, Korea, Mongolia and Philippines, which encompasses air- and oceanfreight, customs clearance, industrial projects, ocean bulk, motorsports as well as some warehouse activities. Karsten brings over two decades of forwarding experience with him which began in Germany in 1996. Since 2002, he has been working in Asia Pacific with postings in Hong Kong, Bangladesh, Australia and Singapore. Prior to his current role, Karsten held several positions with DHL Global Forwarding, heading the oceanfreight team in Asia Pacific he was responsible for the development of the ocean freight business spanning 21 countries across Asia Pacific. Karsten graduated with Honors in Business and Management Studies from Oxford Brookes University. He currently sits on the Asia Pacific Management Board for DHL Global Forwarding and is based in Tokyo. Connect with Karsten:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karsten-michaelis-7074955/ Connect with David Sweet: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdavidsweet/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/focuscorejp  Facebook: :https://www.facebook.com/focuscoreasia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/focuscorejp/  Website: https://www.japan.focuscoregroup.com/  This podcast was proudly produced by Lisa Yasuda. “Doin’ the Uptown Lowdown,” used by permission of...

    46 min
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About

Meet interesting and inspiring and entertaining people who show why Japan is a unique, fulfilling and sometimes frustrating place to do business. We will discuss how to hire, train and retain talent. How to create values that motivate, and review best practices that have worked and attempts that have failed. David will be speaking to company presidents, CEOs, CFOs, HR professionals, coaches, consultants as well as sharing with you some of my own experiences and opinions discovered over the years in this great country. The focus is simple: To explore how to succeed in business in Japan.

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. David Sweet
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    92
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Dr. David Sweet
  • Show Website
    The FocusCore Podcast