Almost exactly one year after Season 6's Expo 2025 deep dive with Sachiko Yoshimura, the Krewe closes the loop with two people who were actually there. Lea Disimone & Bridget McCarthy served as Youth Ambassadors at the US Pavilion during Expo 2025 Osaka, and they share what the program was really like from the inside, from a day in the life to the lasting impact it left on them. Two New Orleans connections, one world's fair, and a conversation worth the wait.

------ About the Krewe ------

The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly episodic podcast sponsored by the Japan Society of New Orleans [https://japansocietyofneworleans.wildapricot.org/]. Check them out every Friday afternoon around noon CST on Apple, Google, Spotify, Amazon, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.  Want to share your experiences with the Krewe? Or perhaps you have ideas for episodes, feedback, comments, or questions? Let the Krewe know by e-mail at kreweofjapanpodcast@gmail.com or on social media (Twitter: @kreweofjapan [https://twitter.com/kreweofjapan], Instagram: @kreweofjapanpodcast [https://www.instagram.com/kreweofjapanpodcast/], Facebook: Krewe of Japan Podcast Page [https://www.facebook.com/kreweofjapanpodcast/], TikTok: @kreweofjapanpodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@kreweofjapanpodcast], LinkedIn: Krewe of Japan LinkedIn Page [https://www.linkedin.com/company/krewe-of-japan], Blue Sky Social: @kreweofjapan.bsky.social [https://bsky.app/profile/kreweofjapan.bsky.social], Threads: @kreweofjapanpodcast [https://www.threads.com/@kreweofjapanpodcast] & the Krewe of Japan Youtube Channel [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRkoVXYF6c1U9woGPmMzl_w]). Until next time, enjoy!

------ Support the Krewe! Offer Links for Affiliates ------

Use the referral links below & our promo code from the episode!

Support your favorite NFL Team AND podcast! Shop NFLShop to gear up for football season! [https://nflshop.k77v.net/kreweofjapan]

Zencastr Offer Link - Use my special link to save 30% off your 1st month of any Zencastr paid plan!  [https://zencastr.com/?via=kreweofjapan]

------ Past KOJ Episodes ------

Expo 2025: Japan on the World Stage ft. Sachiko Yoshimura [S6E2] [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/expo-2025-japan-on-the-world-stage]

Hanging Out In Hyogo ft. Rob Dyer of The Real Japan [S5E14] [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/hanging-out-in-hyogo-ft-rob-dyer-of-the-real-japan]

Checking Out Miyagi ft. Ryotaro Sakurai (Guest Host, William Woods) [S5E5] [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/checking-out-miyagi-prefecture-ft-ryotaro-sakurai-and-william-woods]

Explore Matsue ft. Nicholas McCullough [S4E19] [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/explore-matsue-ft-nicholas-mccullough]

Travel Hiroshima ft. Joy Jarman-Walsh [S4E4] [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/travel-hiroshima-ft-joy-jarman-walsh-jjwalsh-of-inbound-ambassador-seek-sustainable-japan-podcast]

A Day in the Life of an Expo 2025 Youth Ambassador ft. Lea Disimone & Bridget McCarthy

With NASA's Artemis II mission sending humans around the Moon for the first time since the 70s, we're bringing back one of our favorite episodes from 2024. The Krewe sat down with Dr. Kate Kitagawa of JAXA for a fascinating look at Japan's role in the global space race: from SLIM's pinpoint lunar landing to Japan's partnership in the Artemis program and beyond. If the Moon is on your mind right now, this one's for you.

++++++ OG Show Notes ++++++

Prepare for lift off as the Krewe sits down with returning guest Dr. Kate Kitagawa of JAXA to look deep into the past, present, and future of Japan's space program! From pencil rockets & SLIM landers to international collaborative efforts, discover Japan's role in exploring the far reaches of outer space.

------ About the Krewe ------

The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly episodic podcast sponsored by the Japan Society of New Orleans [https://japansocietyofneworleans.wildapricot.org/]. Check them out every Friday afternoon around noon CST on Apple, Google, Spotify, Amazon, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.  Want to share your experiences with the Krewe? Or perhaps you have ideas for episodes, feedback, comments, or questions? Let the Krewe know by e-mail at kreweofjapanpodcast@gmail.com or on social media (Twitter: @kreweofjapan [https://twitter.com/kreweofjapan], Instagram: @kreweofjapanpodcast [https://www.instagram.com/kreweofjapanpodcast/], Facebook: Krewe of Japan Podcast Page [https://www.facebook.com/kreweofjapanpodcast/], TikTok: @kreweofjapanpodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@kreweofjapanpodcast], LinkedIn: Krewe of Japan LinkedIn Page [https://www.linkedin.com/company/krewe-of-japan], Blue Sky Social: @kreweofjapan.bsky.social [https://bsky.app/profile/kreweofjapan.bsky.social], Threads: @kreweofjapanpodcast [https://www.threads.com/@kreweofjapanpodcast] & the Krewe of Japan Youtube Channel [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRkoVXYF6c1U9woGPmMzl_w]). Until next time, enjoy!

------ Support the Krewe! Offer Links for Affiliates ------

Use the referral links below & our promo code from the episode!

Support your favorite NFL Team AND podcast! Shop NFLShop to gear up for football season! [https://nflshop.k77v.net/kreweofjapan]

Zencastr Offer Link - Use my special link to save 30% off your 1st month of any Zencastr paid plan!  [https://zencastr.com/?via=kreweofjapan]

------ Past Episodes with Dr. Kate Kitagawa ------

The Age of Lady Samurai (S01E12) [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/the-age-of-lady-samurai-ft-tomoko-kitagawa]

------ Links about JAXA & Dr. Kate Kitagawa ------

JAXA (English) on Twitter [https://x.com/JAXA_en]

JAXA (Japanese) on Twitter [https://x.com/JAXA_jp]

JAXA on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/jaxajp/]

JAXA (English) on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/jaxa.en]

JAXA (Japanese) on Facebook [https://ja-jp.facebook.com/jaxa.jp/]

The Japanese Space Program ft. Dr. Kate Kitagawa of JAXA (BONUS Artemis Rebroadcast)

Pokemon Day 2026 is here! Celebrate the 30th anniversary of Pokemon with the Krewe by reliving the 25th anniversary of Pokemon! lol Digging deep in the vault to pull out a special Pokemon Day throwback to Season 1, Episode 3 of the podcast... where we have the WHOLE OG Krewe freshly hatched out of our podcast Pokemon egg! 

++++++

In this episode, the Krewe gathers to discuss the iconic Japanese media franchise, Pokémon! Celebrating its 25th anniversary this February, Pokémon is the highest grossing media franchise in the world! From its anime and games, to trading cards and mobile apps, Pokémon truly unites people from across the world. Tune in to this episode to hear the krewe discuss the history, major moments, and each krewe member's favorite Pokémon!

------ About the Krewe ------

The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly episodic podcast sponsored by the Japan Society of New Orleans [https://japansocietyofneworleans.wildapricot.org/]. Check them out every Friday afternoon around noon CST on Apple, Google, Spotify, Amazon, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.  Want to share your experiences with the Krewe? Or perhaps you have ideas for episodes, feedback, comments, or questions? Let the Krewe know by e-mail at kreweofjapanpodcast@gmail.com or on social media (Twitter: @kreweofjapan [https://twitter.com/kreweofjapan], Instagram: @kreweofjapanpodcast [https://www.instagram.com/kreweofjapanpodcast/], Facebook: Krewe of Japan Podcast Page [https://www.facebook.com/kreweofjapanpodcast/], TikTok: @kreweofjapanpodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@kreweofjapanpodcast], LinkedIn: Krewe of Japan LinkedIn Page [https://www.linkedin.com/company/krewe-of-japan], Blue Sky Social: @kreweofjapan.bsky.social [https://bsky.app/profile/kreweofjapan.bsky.social], & the Krewe of Japan Youtube Channel [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRkoVXYF6c1U9woGPmMzl_w]). Until next time, enjoy!

------ Support the Krewe! Offer Links for Affiliates ------

Use the referral links below & our promo code from the episode!

Support your favorite NFL Team AND podcast! Shop NFLShop to gear up for football season! [https://nflshop.k77v.net/kreweofjapan]

Zencastr Offer Link - Use my special link to save 30% off your 1st month of any Zencastr paid plan!  [https://zencastr.com/?via=kreweofjapan]

------ Past KOJ Pokemon/Nintendo Episodes ------

The History of Nintendo ft. Matt Alt (S4E18) [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/the-history-of-nintendo-ft-matt-alt]

The Evolution of PokéMania ft Daniel Dockery [Part 2] (S4E3) [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/evolution-of-pokemania-ft-daniel-dockery-part-2]

The Evolution of PokéMania ft Daniel Dockery [Part 1] (S4E2) [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/evolution-of-pokemania-ft-daniel-dockery]

We Love Pokemon: Celebrating 25 Years (S1E3) [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/we-love-pokemon-celebrating-25-years]

Why Japan? ft. Matt Alt (S1E1) [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/why-japan-ft-matt-alt]

------ JSNO Upcoming Events ------

We Love Pokemon: Celebrating 25/30 Years (BONUS Pokemon Day Rebroadcast)

The Krewe wraps up Season 6 with an episode looking back at the highs, the lows, & what's to come! Join Doug & Jenn for listener feedback and behind-the-scenes stories as they put a bow on the 6th chapter of KOJ Podcast!

------ About the Krewe ------

The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly episodic podcast sponsored by the Japan Society of New Orleans [https://japansocietyofneworleans.wildapricot.org/]. Check them out every Friday afternoon around noon CST on Apple, Google, Spotify, Amazon, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.  Want to share your experiences with the Krewe? Or perhaps you have ideas for episodes, feedback, comments, or questions? Let the Krewe know by e-mail at kreweofjapanpodcast@gmail.com or on social media (Twitter: @kreweofjapan [https://twitter.com/kreweofjapan], Instagram: @kreweofjapanpodcast [https://www.instagram.com/kreweofjapanpodcast/], Facebook: Krewe of Japan Podcast Page [https://www.facebook.com/kreweofjapanpodcast/], TikTok: @kreweofjapanpodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@kreweofjapanpodcast], LinkedIn: Krewe of Japan LinkedIn Page [https://www.linkedin.com/company/krewe-of-japan], Blue Sky Social: @kreweofjapan.bsky.social [https://bsky.app/profile/kreweofjapan.bsky.social], Threads: @kreweofjapanpodcast [https://www.threads.com/@kreweofjapanpodcast] & the Krewe of Japan Youtube Channel [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRkoVXYF6c1U9woGPmMzl_w]). Until next time, enjoy!

------ Support the Krewe! Offer Links for Affiliates ------

Use the referral links below & our promo code from the episode!

Support your favorite NFL Team AND podcast! Shop NFLShop to gear up for football season! [https://nflshop.k77v.net/kreweofjapan]

Zencastr Offer Link - Use my special link to save 30% off your 1st month of any Zencastr paid plan!  [https://zencastr.com/?via=kreweofjapan]

------ JSNO Upcoming Events ------

JSNO Event Calendar [https://japansocietyofneworleans.wildapricot.org/Events]

Join JSNO Today! [https://japansocietyofneworleans.wildapricot.org/page-1794840]

Season 6 Recap

In the spirit of Carnival season, here's a special bonus rebroadcast of our Mardi Gras Super-Sized Special released in January 2025 about a unique connection between New Orleans, Japan & Mardi Gras that took place in 2024! 

++++++

2024 was a special year for Carnival and the Japan-New Orleans connection! Lafcadio Hearn's life & works inspired the theme for Rex Parade 2024: "The Two Worlds of Lafcadio Hearn - New Orleans & Japan". But why Hearn? What went into the float design? What other ways has Hearn left a lasting impact on both New Orleans & Japan? Find out today with a super-sized special Mardi Gras bonus episode, featuring insights from Rex historian/archivist Will French & historian/archivist emeritus Dr. Stephen Hales, Royal Artists float designer/artistic director Caroline Thomas, Lafcadio Hearn's great grandson Bon Koizumi,  legendary chef John Folse, Captain of the Krewe of Lafcadio John Kelly, JSNO's resident Lafcadio Hearn expert Matthew Smith, and even the Mayor of Matsue Akihito Uesada! Get ready for Mardi Gras 2025 by reflecting on this unique connection between New Orleans & Japan!

------ About the Krewe ------

The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly episodic podcast sponsored by the Japan Society of New Orleans [https://japansocietyofneworleans.wildapricot.org/]. Check them out every Friday afternoon around noon CST on Apple, Google, Spotify, Amazon, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.  Want to share your experiences with the Krewe? Or perhaps you have ideas for episodes, feedback, comments, or questions? Let the Krewe know by e-mail at kreweofjapanpodcast@gmail.com or on social media (Twitter: @kreweofjapan [https://twitter.com/kreweofjapan], Instagram: @kreweofjapanpodcast [https://www.instagram.com/kreweofjapanpodcast/], Facebook: Krewe of Japan Podcast Page [https://www.facebook.com/kreweofjapanpodcast/], TikTok: @kreweofjapanpodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@kreweofjapanpodcast], LinkedIn: Krewe of Japan LinkedIn Page [https://www.linkedin.com/company/krewe-of-japan], Blue Sky Social: @kreweofjapan.bsky.social [https://bsky.app/profile/kreweofjapan.bsky.social], & the Krewe of Japan Youtube Channel [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRkoVXYF6c1U9woGPmMzl_w]). Until next time, enjoy!

------ Music Credits ------

Background music provided by: Royalty Free Music by Giorgio Di Campo for Free Sound Music http://freesoundmusic.eu [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbHB5N1JTUHV5dlBWTzZSUVlDa0FXOXNEaWI5QXxBQ3Jtc0tuYW9hY1otd3lYV2VYbFR1NHRSd0pZU0hzbzZWdC1pVHd3OXIxQUc2RnVtQ1VUV29laEQyZGVPS3FwTHlEYnJyYXk4NnlEUnNwQ2VTZDhhdEhBaGxDcmF2OGZFNndjLTRQQ3VtMmJDS0QwYlBXZTNiVQ&q=http%3A%2F%2Ffreesoundmusic.eu%2F&v=b5IErJOcuCI]

 FreeSoundMusic on Youtube   [https://youtube.com/freesoundmusic]

Link to Original Sound Clip [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b5IErJOcuCI]

------ Audio Clip Credits ------

Thanks to Dominic Massa & everyone at WYES for allowing us to use some of the audio from the below Rex Clips:

Segment about Royal Artist & Float Design [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ii9E6JqVgfQ]

Full 2024 Rex Ball Coverage (Krewe of Lafcadio/Nicholls State segment) [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=46RclbkevBU]

Thanks to Matsue City Hall & Mayor Akihito Uesada for their video message below:

Message from Matsue Mayor Akihito Uesada [https://youtu.be/4ASy9SDH3Q4?si=4PMivph_cP_clD8T]

------ Support the Krewe! Offer Links for

Lafcadio Hearn: 2024 King of Carnival (BONUS Rebroadcast)

From Astro Boy to Gundam to real-world robots like ASIMO and Pepper, Japan’s fascination with robots runs deep. This week, the Krewe is joined by author, cultural commentator, & robot enthusiast Matt Alt to explore how robots became heroes instead of threats in Japanese pop culture and how those sci-fi dreams quietly shaped Japan’s modern relationship with technology, AI, and everyday automation. From giant mecha and cyborg icons to robot cafés and beyond, we dig into why Japan seems so comfortable living alongside machines in an episode that’s equal parts nostalgia, culture, and future tech.

------ About the Krewe ------

The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly episodic podcast sponsored by the Japan Society of New Orleans [https://japansocietyofneworleans.wildapricot.org/]. Check them out every Friday afternoon around noon CST on Apple, Google, Spotify, Amazon, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.  Want to share your experiences with the Krewe? Or perhaps you have ideas for episodes, feedback, comments, or questions? Let the Krewe know by e-mail at kreweofjapanpodcast@gmail.com or on social media (Twitter: @kreweofjapan [https://twitter.com/kreweofjapan], Instagram: @kreweofjapanpodcast [https://www.instagram.com/kreweofjapanpodcast/], Facebook: Krewe of Japan Podcast Page [https://www.facebook.com/kreweofjapanpodcast/], TikTok: @kreweofjapanpodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@kreweofjapanpodcast], LinkedIn: Krewe of Japan LinkedIn Page [https://www.linkedin.com/company/krewe-of-japan], Blue Sky Social: @kreweofjapan.bsky.social [https://bsky.app/profile/kreweofjapan.bsky.social], Threads: @kreweofjapanpodcast [https://www.threads.com/@kreweofjapanpodcast] & the Krewe of Japan Youtube Channel [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRkoVXYF6c1U9woGPmMzl_w]). Until next time, enjoy!

------ Support the Krewe! Offer Links for Affiliates ------

Use the referral links below & our promo code from the episode!

Support your favorite NFL Team AND podcast! Shop NFLShop to gear up for football season! [https://nflshop.k77v.net/kreweofjapan]

Zencastr Offer Link - Use my special link to save 30% off your 1st month of any Zencastr paid plan!  [https://zencastr.com/?via=kreweofjapan]

------ Matt Alt Links ------

Matt's Website [https://www.mattalt.com/]

Pure Invention - Publisher's Page [https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/609076/pure-invention-by-matt-alt/]

Matt's Newsletter [https://blog.pureinventionbook.com/]

Pure Tokyoscope Podcast [https://www.patreon.com/TokyoScopePodcast]

Matt on IG [https://www.instagram.com/altmattalt]

------ Past Matt Alt Episodes ------

Akira Toriyama: Legacy of a Legend ft. Matt Alt (S5E3) [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/akira-toriyama-legacy-of-a-legend-ft-matt-alt]

The History of Nintendo ft. Matt Alt (S4E18) [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/the-history-of-nintendo-ft-matt-alt]

How Marvel Comics Changed Tokusatsu & Japan Forever ft Gene & Ted Pelc (Guest Host, Matt Alt) (S3E13) [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/how-marvel-comics-changed-tokusatsu-japan-forever-ft-gene-ted-pelc-guest-host-matt-alt]

Yokai: The Hauntings of Japan ft. Hiroko Yoda & Matt Alt (S2E5) [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/yokai-the-hauntings-of-japan-ft-hiroko-yoda-matt-alt]

Find Someone Who Loves You Like Japan Loves Robots ft. Matt Alt

Before fully diving into 2026, the Krewe takes a minute (or 64) to reflect on Japan in 2025, recapping & remembering the good, the bad & the wacky. From the top news stories of 2025 to the year's biggest pop culture stand outs, this episode covers it all!

------ About the Krewe ------

The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly episodic podcast sponsored by the Japan Society of New Orleans [https://japansocietyofneworleans.wildapricot.org/]. Check them out every Friday afternoon around noon CST on Apple, Google, Spotify, Amazon, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.  Want to share your experiences with the Krewe? Or perhaps you have ideas for episodes, feedback, comments, or questions? Let the Krewe know by e-mail at kreweofjapanpodcast@gmail.com or on social media (Twitter: @kreweofjapan [https://twitter.com/kreweofjapan], Instagram: @kreweofjapanpodcast [https://www.instagram.com/kreweofjapanpodcast/], Facebook: Krewe of Japan Podcast Page [https://www.facebook.com/kreweofjapanpodcast/], TikTok: @kreweofjapanpodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@kreweofjapanpodcast], LinkedIn: Krewe of Japan LinkedIn Page [https://www.linkedin.com/company/krewe-of-japan], Blue Sky Social: @kreweofjapan.bsky.social [https://bsky.app/profile/kreweofjapan.bsky.social], Threads: @kreweofjapanpodcast [https://www.threads.com/@kreweofjapanpodcast] & the Krewe of Japan Youtube Channel [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRkoVXYF6c1U9woGPmMzl_w]). Until next time, enjoy!

------ Support the Krewe! Offer Links for Affiliates ------

Use the referral links below & our promo code from the episode!

Support your favorite NFL Team AND podcast! Shop NFLShop to gear up for football season! [https://nflshop.k77v.net/kreweofjapan]

Zencastr Offer Link - Use my special link to save 30% off your 1st month of any Zencastr paid plan!  [https://zencastr.com/?via=kreweofjapan]

Get your very own JAPAN BEAR SHELTER [https://soranews24.com/2025/11/15/bear-attack-shelters-going-on-sale-in-japan-as-country-experiences-record-high-number-of-incidents/]

------ Past KOJ Episodes Referenced ------

Crash Course in Japanese Politics ft. Tobias Harris of Japan Foresight (S6E13) [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/crash-course-in-japanese-politics-ft-tobias-harris-of-japan-foresight]

Social Media & Perceptions of Japan (S6E8) [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/social-media-perceptions-of-japan]

Japanese Soccer on the World Stage ft. Dan Orlowitz (S6E5) [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/japanese-soccer-on-the-world-stage-ft-dan-orlowitz]

Meet the J.League ft. Dan Orlowitz (S6E4) [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/meet-the-jleague-ft-dan-orlowitz]

Expo 2025: Japan on the World Stage ft. Sachiko Yoshimura (S6E2) [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/expo-2025-japan-on-the-world-stage]

Checking Out Miyagi ft. Ryotaro Sakurai (Guest Host, William Woods) (S5E5) [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/checking-out-miyagi-prefecture-ft-ryotaro-sakurai-and-william-woods]

Thoughts on Godzilla Minus One ft. Dr. William (Bill) Tsutsui (S4Bonus) [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/thoughts-on-godzilla-minus-one-review-ft-dr-william-bill-tsutsui]

Visiting Themed Cafes in Japan ft. Chris Nilghe of TDR Explorer ( [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/visiting-themed-cafes-in-japan-ft-chris-nilghe-of-tdr-explorer]

Sayonara 2025: Japan's Year in Review

The Krewe sits down with Amy Hever, Executive Director of the MLB Players Trust, and Chris Capuano, former MLB pitcher & Chair of the Players Trust Board, to explore how MLB players give back through community-driven initiatives. Discover the mission of the MLB Players Trust, player-led philanthropy, & how baseball continues to bridge cultures between Japan & the United States through youth programs, education initiatives, & meaningful cross-cultural engagement beyond the field.

------ About the Krewe ------

The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly episodic podcast sponsored by the Japan Society of New Orleans [https://japansocietyofneworleans.wildapricot.org/]. Check them out every Friday afternoon around noon CST on Apple, Google, Spotify, Amazon, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.  Want to share your experiences with the Krewe? Or perhaps you have ideas for episodes, feedback, comments, or questions? Let the Krewe know by e-mail at kreweofjapanpodcast@gmail.com or on social media (Twitter: @kreweofjapan [https://twitter.com/kreweofjapan], Instagram: @kreweofjapanpodcast [https://www.instagram.com/kreweofjapanpodcast/], Facebook: Krewe of Japan Podcast Page [https://www.facebook.com/kreweofjapanpodcast/], TikTok: @kreweofjapanpodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@kreweofjapanpodcast], LinkedIn: Krewe of Japan LinkedIn Page [https://www.linkedin.com/company/krewe-of-japan], Blue Sky Social: @kreweofjapan.bsky.social [https://bsky.app/profile/kreweofjapan.bsky.social], Threads: @kreweofjapanpodcast [https://www.threads.com/@kreweofjapanpodcast] & the Krewe of Japan Youtube Channel [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRkoVXYF6c1U9woGPmMzl_w]). Until next time, enjoy!

------ Support the Krewe! Offer Links for Affiliates ------

Use the referral links below & our promo code from the episode!

Support your favorite NFL Team AND podcast! Shop NFLShop to gear up for football season! [https://nflshop.k77v.net/kreweofjapan]

Zencastr Offer Link - Use my special link to save 30% off your 1st month of any Zencastr paid plan!  [https://zencastr.com/?via=kreweofjapan]

------ About MLB Players Trust ------

MLB Players Trust Website [https://www.trust.mlbplayers.com/]

Playmakers Classic Info & Tickets [https://www.trust.mlbplayers.com/playmakers]

MLB Players Trust on IG [https://www.instagram.com/players_trust/]

MLB Players Trust on X/Twitter [https://x.com/MLBPlayersTrust]

MLB Players Trust on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/mlb-players-trust]

MLB Players Trust on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/MLBPlayersTrust/]

------ Past KOJ Traditional Japan Episodes ------

Japanese Soccer on the World Stage ft. Dan Orlowitz (S6E5) [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/japanese-soccer-on-the-world-stage-ft-dan-orlowitz]

Meet the J.League ft. Dan Orlowitz (S6E4) [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/meet-the-jleague-ft-dan-orlowitz]

Kendo: The Way of the Sword ft. Alexander Bennett, 7th Dan in Kendo (S4E16) [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/kendo-the-way-of-the-sword-ft-alexander-bennett-7th-dan-kendo]

The Life of a Sumotori ft. 3-Time Grand Champion Konishiki Yasokichi (S4E10) [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/the-life-of-a-sumotori-ft-3-time-grand-champion-konishiki-yasokichi]

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Bridging Communities Through MLB Players Trust ft. Amy Hever & Chris Capuano

Japan is often described as having “spirituality without religion”, but what does that actually mean? In this episode, author Hiroko Yoda joins the Krewe to break down how spirituality quietly shapes everyday life in Japan, from nature and kami to shrines, folklore, and even anime. With personal stories and insights from her new book, Eight Million Ways to Happiness [https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/735293/eight-million-ways-to-happiness-by-hiroko-yoda/], this conversation offers a fresh look at happiness rooted in connection, not belief.

------ About the Krewe ------

The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly episodic podcast sponsored by the Japan Society of New Orleans [https://japansocietyofneworleans.wildapricot.org/]. Check them out every Friday afternoon around noon CST on Apple, Google, Spotify, Amazon, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.  Want to share your experiences with the Krewe? Or perhaps you have ideas for episodes, feedback, comments, or questions? Let the Krewe know by e-mail at kreweofjapanpodcast@gmail.com or on social media (Twitter: @kreweofjapan [https://twitter.com/kreweofjapan], Instagram: @kreweofjapanpodcast [https://www.instagram.com/kreweofjapanpodcast/], Facebook: Krewe of Japan Podcast Page [https://www.facebook.com/kreweofjapanpodcast/], TikTok: @kreweofjapanpodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@kreweofjapanpodcast], LinkedIn: Krewe of Japan LinkedIn Page [https://www.linkedin.com/company/krewe-of-japan], Blue Sky Social: @kreweofjapan.bsky.social [https://bsky.app/profile/kreweofjapan.bsky.social], Threads: @kreweofjapanpodcast [https://www.threads.com/@kreweofjapanpodcast] & the Krewe of Japan Youtube Channel [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRkoVXYF6c1U9woGPmMzl_w]). Until next time, enjoy!

------ Support the Krewe! Offer Links for Affiliates ------

Use the referral links below & our promo code from the episode!

Support your favorite NFL Team AND podcast! Shop NFLShop to gear up for football season! [https://nflshop.k77v.net/kreweofjapan]

Zencastr Offer Link - Use my special link to save 30% off your 1st month of any Zencastr paid plan!  [https://zencastr.com/?via=kreweofjapan]

------ About Hiroko Yoda ------

Pre-Order Eight Million Ways to Happiness Today! [https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/735293/eight-million-ways-to-happiness-by-hiroko-yoda/]

Hiroko's Blog "Japan Happiness" [https://blog.hirokoyoda.com/]

Hiroko on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/hi_yoda_1/]

Hiroko on BlueSky [https://bsky.app/profile/hirokoyoda.bsky.social]

Hiroko on X/Twitter [https://x.com/Ninetail_foxQ]

------ Past KOJ Traditional Japan Episodes ------

Japanese Tea Ceremony: A Living Tradition ft. Atsuko Mori of Camellia Tea Ceremony (S6E16) [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/japanese-tea-ceremony-a-living-tradition-ft-atsuko-mori-of-camellia-tea-ceremony]

Rakugo: Comedy of a Cushion ft. Katsura Sunshine (S6E1) [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/rakugo-comedy-on-a-cushion-ft-katsura-sunshine]

The Castles of Japan ft. William de Lange (S5E19) [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/the-castles-of-japan-ft-william-de-lange]

Foreign-Born Samurai: William Adams ft. Nathan L [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/foreign-born-samurai-william-adams-ft-nathan-ledbetter-guest-host-dr-samantha-perez]

Spirituality in Everyday Japan ft. Hiroko Yoda

The Krewe is joined by Atsuko Mori of Camellia Tea Ceremony in Kyoto for a deep dive into the Japanese tea ceremony. Together, they explore the experience itself, the tools and etiquette involved, what guests can expect, and why preserving this centuries-old tradition still matters today.

------ About the Krewe ------

The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly episodic podcast sponsored by the Japan Society of New Orleans [https://japansocietyofneworleans.wildapricot.org/]. Check them out every Friday afternoon around noon CST on Apple, Google, Spotify, Amazon, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.  Want to share your experiences with the Krewe? Or perhaps you have ideas for episodes, feedback, comments, or questions? Let the Krewe know by e-mail at kreweofjapanpodcast@gmail.com or on social media (Twitter: @kreweofjapan [https://twitter.com/kreweofjapan], Instagram: @kreweofjapanpodcast [https://www.instagram.com/kreweofjapanpodcast/], Facebook: Krewe of Japan Podcast Page [https://www.facebook.com/kreweofjapanpodcast/], TikTok: @kreweofjapanpodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@kreweofjapanpodcast], LinkedIn: Krewe of Japan LinkedIn Page [https://www.linkedin.com/company/krewe-of-japan], Blue Sky Social: @kreweofjapan.bsky.social [https://bsky.app/profile/kreweofjapan.bsky.social], Threads: @kreweofjapanpodcast [https://www.threads.com/@kreweofjapanpodcast] & the Krewe of Japan Youtube Channel [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRkoVXYF6c1U9woGPmMzl_w]). Until next time, enjoy!

------ Support the Krewe! Offer Links for Affiliates ------

Use the referral links below & our promo code from the episode!

Support your favorite NFL Team AND podcast! Shop NFLShop to gear up for football season! [https://nflshop.k77v.net/kreweofjapan]

Zencastr Offer Link - Use my special link to save 30% off your 1st month of any Zencastr paid plan!  [https://zencastr.com/?via=kreweofjapan]

------ Past KOJ Traditional Japan Episodes ------

Rakugo: Comedy of a Cushion ft. Katsura Sunshine (S6E1) [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/rakugo-comedy-on-a-cushion-ft-katsura-sunshine]

The Castles of Japan ft. William de Lange (S5E19) [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/the-castles-of-japan-ft-william-de-lange]

Foreign-Born Samurai: William Adams ft. Nathan Ledbetter (Guest Host, Dr. Samantha Perez) (S5E17) [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/foreign-born-samurai-william-adams-ft-nathan-ledbetter-guest-host-dr-samantha-perez]

Foreign-Born Samurai: Yasuke ft. Nathan Ledbetter (Guest Host, Dr. Samantha Perez) (S5E16) [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/foreign-born-samurai-yasuke-ft-nathan-ledbetter-guest-host-dr-samantha-perez]

The Thunderous Sounds of Taiko ft. Takumi Kato (加藤 拓三), World Champion Taiko Drummer (S5E13) [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/the-thunderous-sounds-of-taiko-ft-takumi-kato-world-champion-taiko-drummer]

The Real World of Geisha ft. Peter Macintosh (S5E7) [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/the-real-world-of-geisha-ft-peter-macintosh]

Inside Japanese Homes & Architecture ft. Azby Brown (S5E6) [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/inside-japanese-homes-architecture-ft-azby-brown]

Kendo: The Way of the Sword ft. Alexander Bennett, 7th Da [https://krewe-of-japan.simplecast.com/episodes/kendo-the-way-of-the-sword-ft-alexander-bennett-7th-dan-kendo]

Japanese Tea Ceremony: A Living Tradition ft. Atsuko Mori of Camellia Tea Ceremony

Krewe of Japan is a weekly podcast that takes listeners on audio journeys through Japanese culture. With our hosts as your guide, and the help of guest experts, Japanese natives, and ex-pats, understanding Japan is now easier than ever before.

Krewe of Japan

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