In Episode 113 of the podcast, host Kevin O'Shea chats with returning guests, Pee Jay, Andrew Higgins and Jim Mullins "Mully" about life in Japan during the summer months. The Japanese summer has a reputation for being extremely humid and hot. Living or traveling here can be a challenge for many during the Dog Days of Summer. The four long-term residents of Japan chat about what it's really like during the Japanese summer and what they and others do in order to "beat the heat."

Kevin also talks about the awesome, but limited time Just Japan Podcast t-shirt campaign (only available until July 4th, 2016).

Just Japan Podcast:
Shownotes/Website: http://justjapanstuff.com
RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev
Instagram: http://instagram.com/jlandkev
Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 112 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea chats with City of Kobe Public Relations Specialist Louise Dendy. They talk about how Louise came to Japan as well as her current role promoting the City of Kobe. What makes Kobe so unique and charming? Why should more people visiting Japan take the time to stop over in Kobe? Kevin and Louise also talk about the Kobe PR Ambassadors program. This is a new initiative from the City of Kobe that has English-speaking foreign volunteers promoting the city on social media (Kevin -the host- is a Kobe PR Ambassador).

Kevin also talks about the awesome, but limited time Just Japan Podcast t-shirt campaign (only available until July 4th, 2016) and helping nature witht the Birds of Kansai Facebook page!

Kobe PR Ambassadors:
https://www.facebook.com/KobePRA/
https://twitter.com/Kobe_PRA

Just Japan Podcast:
Shownotes/Website: http://justjapanstuff.com
RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev
Instagram: http://instagram.com/jlandkev
Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 111 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks about raising children in a bilingual family here in Japan. Through anecdotal tales, Kevin shares how he and his Japanese wife are raising their children to speak both Japanese and English while living in Japan. It is a challenging task indeed and every family tackles it in a different way. Kevin also speaks to his wife and 5-year old son about learning second languages!

You also get to hear one of Kevin's "old-timey" stories from YouTube about his first day being a teacher in Asia (South Korea). The audio from a 7-year old YouTube story video is part of this week's episode!

Support the podcast by buying a Just Japan Podcast T-Shirt:
https://teespring.com/justjapanpodcast

Just Japan Podcast:
Shownotes/Website: http://justjapanstuff.com
RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev
Instagram: http://instagram.com/jlandkev
Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

SUPPORT the Just Japan Podcast by picking up some Just Japan Podcast merchandise! The first ever JJP T-Shirt event is here! Shirts are available until July 4th, 2016. Get your Just Japan Podcast T-Shirt (shipped globally) at:

https://teespring.com/justjapanpodcast

Shownotes:
http://justjapanstuff.com

In Episode 110 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea chats with returning guest Brian Waters about being a foreign parent having kids in Japanese schools. The Japanese education system is very different than in other countries. What is it like to have your child attend school in a school system that is very different than the one you know?

Kevin also talks about the Kobe PR Ambassadors initiative which he is a member of. Kevin and others are volunteering to promote the City of Kobe to the world via social media!

Kobe PR Ambassadors:
https://www.facebook.com/KobePRA/
https://twitter.com/Kobe_PRA

Just Japan Podcast:
Shownotes/Website: http://justjapanstuff.com
RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev
Instagram: http://instagram.com/jlandkev
Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 109 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea speaks with well-known Japan-based writer Baye McNeil. Baye has been on the podcast before talking about his books, "Hi! My Name is Loco and I'm a Racist" and "Loco in Yokohama" as well as talking about being a writer in Japan. In this episode Baye chats about being a writer, but more importantly his Kickstarter campaign to fund the translation of his books into Japanese. Baye also talks about his new book, "Winning Abroad."

Shownotes/Website: http://justjapanstuff.com
RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev
Instagram: http://instagram.com/jlandkev
Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 108 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea is flying solo and he's answering your questions! That's right...Mail Bag questions left on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube are getting tackled in this week's episode. Will same-sex marriage or marijuana ever be legalized in Japan? Can I work in Japan without speaking Japanese? How do you overcome homesickness? Can women carry pepper spray to deter or fight off train molesters? How hard is it to get freelance work in Japan?

The questions are varied an interesting in this week's episode!

Shownotes/Website: http://justjapanstuff.com
RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev
Instagram: http://instagram.com/jlandkev
Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 107 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea chats with friend of the show Jim Mullins (Mully) about his recent medical issues in Japan and dealing with health care in Japan for more long-term and serious matters. Jim was recently diagnosed with Diabetes and spent a few weeks in the hospital. He shares his story about how he realized he had this disease, his stay in hospital and his road to recovery (aka...Highway to Health).  Kevin and Jim also discuss the importance of putting pride and fear in the back seat and immediately going to doctors if you think there is something wrong with you health-wise.

Kevin Also talks about Golden Week in Japan, the Kobe Public Relations Ambassadors program and the horrible Fort McMurray fires in Canada.

http://justjapanstuff.com (new home online)

Shownotes/Website: http://justjapanstuff.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 106 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea chats with returning guest Pee Jay about figure skating in Japan. Some people may be surprised to learn that figure skating is one of the most popular fan sports in Japan and its' fans are intensely loyal. No matter where you go in the world to see a major skating event it's safe to say there will be a large contingent of Japanese fans there. Pee Jay, an avid figure skating fan himself talks about the fan culture, well-known skaters like Asada Mao and Hanyu Yuzaru as well as why the sport is so popular.

http://justjapanstuff.com (new home online)

Shownotes/Website: http://justjapanstuff.com
RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev
Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 105 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea speaks with returning guest Kevin Tarpey. They talk about Kevin's attempt at through-hiking the Appalachian Trail, his time in Japan (interviewed him live), Japanese hospitality to foreign travelers and other adventures! Kevin (the host) also talks about Hanami, doing volunteer public relations work for the City of Kobe as well a the terrible earthquakes and disaster in the southern island of Kyushu and the City of Kumamoto.

http://justjapanstuff.com (new home online)

Shownotes/Website: http://justjapanstuff.com
RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev
Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 104 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea chats with Derek Winston, the editor of the Japan travel and lifestyle website, enablejapan.com. The site covers tourist hot spots in Tokyo as well as places to shop and eat. The site includes stories, reviews and videos. Derek himself is also a very interesting person. Having recetnly retired from the United States Navy, Derek's ship was involved in the rescue and recovery operations in the days following the 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Tohoku. He lives in Tokyo with his family where he studies Communications and Journalism at Temple University Japan.

http://justjapanstuff.com (new home online)

Shownotes/Website: http://justjapanstuff.com
RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev
Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 103 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks about being a guest at a wedding in Japan. If you are living in Japan long enough, eventually you will be invited to a wedding. The rules and formalities are very different than in other countries. Kevin talks about the traditions of giving and receiving gifts, when to drink and eat, how to dress and after parties,etc. If you have an interest in Japanese culture, old and modern, you'll enjoy this episode!

Kevin also talks about his nature/wildlife photography page "Birds of Kansai."

https://www.facebook.com/birdsofkansai

http://justjapanstuff.com (new home online)

Shownotes/Website: http://justjapanstuff.com
RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev
Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 102 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea chats with Orrin Heath (DancesWithCranes on YouTube), a 5th year JET (English language teacher) living in northern Kyoto Prefecture. Orrin, an American citizen, lives here in Japan with his wife who is also American. They came to Japan 5 years ago with little experience in the country and language and have since started a family. Their son was born in a Japanese hospital and they have been raising him quite successfully in foreign country. For those outside of Japan with families and an interest in moving to Japan, Orrin's story is proof that it is definitely possible to raise a family here and enjoy an satisfying and fun life!

Kevin also talks about his nature/wildlife photography page "Birds of Kansai."

https://www.facebook.com/birdsofkansai

http://justjapanstuff.com (new home online)

Shownotes/Website: http://justjapanstuff.com
RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev
Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 101 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea chats with Andrew Marston of the "Happy in Japan" YouTube channel. Andrew was on Episode 17 of the Just Japan Podcast in 2014 talking about his epic cycling adventure accross Japan. In this episode he talks about his return to Japan as well as the travel videos he has been producing for his amazing YouTube channel. They are fun, informative and the editing is great! Learn more about his video production techniques and being Happy in Japan!

Kevin also talks about his nature/wildlife photography page "Birds of Kansai."

https://www.facebook.com/birdsofkansai

http://justjapanstuff.com (new home online)

Shownotes/Website: http://justjapanstuff.com
RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev
Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

Just a quick announcement to let you know there will be no new episode of the podcast this week, but have no fear, we'll be back with a new one next week!

Until then, check out the home of the podcast at justjapanstuff.com for blog posts and fun stuff about Japan. Also check out our Etsy shop: "Luck of Japan"

Shownotes/blog: http://justjapanstuff.com
Twitter: @jlandkev
Etsy: "Luck of Japan"

100 EPISODES!!!!! Thank You Everyone!

In Episode 100 - Part 2 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea shares the stories of past guests about their experiences when they first came to Japan. This celebratory episode (Part 2) features some amazing and entertaining stories from past guests as well as Kevin! What's it really like when you move to a country far away from home with a vastly different culture? Find out!

These tales were accidentally ommited from Episode 100 so here they are in Episode 100 - Part 2!

http://justjapanstuff.com (new home online)

Shownotes/Website: http://justjapanstuff.com
RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev
Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

Episode 100 - Part 2 guests in order of appearance:

Jenny Silver
Jeff Quinlan

100 EPISODES!!!!! Thank You Everyone!

In Episode 100 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea shares the stories of past guests about their experiences when they first came to Japan. This celebratory episode features some amazing and entertaining stories from 15 past guests as well as Kevin! What's it really like when you move to a country far away from home with a vastly different culture? Find out!

Kevin also gives out special thanks (100 episodes), podcast goals for 2016 and rambles on about other things...

http://justjapanstuff.com (new home online)

Shownotes/Website: http://justjapanstuff.com
RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev
Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

Episode 100 guests in order of appearance:

KantoKitsune
Hikosaemon
KansaiPJ
Chillinkansai (Scott)
Joshua Meade
Percival Constantine
Scott Akerman (Unrested)
Baye McNeil
Kathryn Spoor (KittyDoesJapan)
Andrew Higgins
Victor Boggio (Gimmeabreakman)
Brian Waters
Michael Peckitt
J-San (napajapan.com)
Mully

In Episode 99 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea chats with returning guest Kathryn Spoor about her new Japan-related project! The JQNA podcast is a season-based podcast that tackles different issues about life in Japan, but in a non-standard manner. Kathryn doesn't have a cohost or interview people live. She has a group of people from varying backgrounds discuss some pretty different topics about life in Japan. Each week you can hear a wide variety of experiences and thoughts on life in Japan from her panelists. You'll have to subscribe to JQNA in iTunes or on Sound Cloud to know what we're talking about.

Kevin also discusses the podcast schedule, Episode 100, too many surgeries and some nutsy North Koreans launching missles!

http://justjapanstuff.com

Shownotes/Website: http://justjapanstuff.com
RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev
Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 98 of the podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks to James Winovich, the host of the ALT Insider Podcast and the person behind altinsider.com. James has been in Japan for several years and developed a resource website and podcast dedicated to helping those working in Japan as Assistant Language Teachers (ALTs). He offers a wealth of knowledge and advice geared towards making people better and happier teachers! Recently the ALT Insider Podcast has branched away from teaching as a topic alone and has done some fascinating episodes about foreigners living and working in Japan in non-teaching related careers. Check out the ALT Insider Podcast and enjoy the interview!

Kevin also talks about surgery in Japan, sick family members and the new home of the Just Japan Podcast:

http://justjapanstuff.com

Shownotes/Website: http://justjapanstuff.com
RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev
Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

The Just Japan Podcast has a new website! Go check it out. Make sure you bookmark it and share it on your social media:

http://justjapanstuff.com/

In Episode 97 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks to Adam Shaw (SakanaJin on YouTube) about studying Japanese and life in Japan. Adam studied Japanese in the U.K. for a year before coming to Japan 4 years ago. Since then he has studied Japanese and is working towards his JLPT (Japan Language Proficiency Test) Level 1. They chat about the importance of learning Japanese, what type of studying has worked for Adam as well as using language to learn about Japanese culture.

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com
RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev
Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 96 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea speaks with Anthony Joh about finding work in Japan. Anthony is the editor of the GaijinPot website. GaijinPot has the biggest English-language job board in Japan and is an important place to visit if looking for work in a variety of industires in Japan. GaijinPot is also known for its blog that shares information about culture and life in Japan. Kevin and Anthony talk about jobs available for foreigners in Japan, qualifications as well as job searching and hunting tips. Anthony discusses topics such as finding work in Japan from abroad, searching here in Japan, visa sponsorship, education qualifications and coming to Japan as a student.

Another episode filled with useful information for those interested in Japan!

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com
RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev
Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 95 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea chats with Jay Dee Archer. Jay Dee is a Canadian who has been living and working in Japan for more than 10 years. Jay Dee and his family have decided that it is time for them to make the move back to his home in Canada. Some expats choose to stay in Japan premanently, but most eventually transition back to their own countries after living and working in Japan. This can be challenging for most people, but it becomes far more complicated when you have a family! Jay Dee talks about his motivation for moving back as well as some of the hurdles he and his family face while making this important transition.

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com
RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev
Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 94 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks about New Year's traditions in Japan. New Years is the most important holiday of the year for Japanese people. Kevin talks about some traditions such as ringing in the New Year with 108 bells, the O-Sechi meal, special money for children, New Year's cleaning, mochi, soba noodles on New Year's Eve and the first visit to the shrine on January 1st. Kevin also talks about the famous NHK New Year's music television show Kohaku Uta Gassen (Kohaku) and how this year there will be a Star Wars theme!

Happy New Year everyone and thank you for being so AWESOME!

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com
RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev
Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 93 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea chats with returning panelists Hikosaemon and Jenny Silver about living in Tokyo, Japan's largest city. Life in Tokyo is certainly different than in other parts of Japan. It's bigger, more crowded, maybe more expensive, but it's also more exciting and has more ammenities than other parts of the country. Kevin chats with two people who have a lot of experience living in Tokyo and enjoying the city to the fullest! There are many good reasons why so many people not only want to visit Tokyo, but live there as well.

HAPPY NEW YEAR everyone! 2015 was a great year for the podcast and 2016 will be even better! Thanks for your continued support!

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com
RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev
Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 92 of the Just Japan Podcast there's a party! A Christmas Party! Guests Steve Miller of the Asia News Weekly Podcast, Mully of the Mully's Place Podcast and Kathryn and Russ of the Kitty Does Japan YouTube channel join the podcast for the 2nd annual Christmas Party Podcast! Learn about Christmas in Japan and Korea. How do people celebrate the occasion? What do they eat and what do they do? The guests share fun stories about the Holiday Season in Japan and South Korea as well as their favorite Holiday movies and activities.

MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com
RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev
Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 91 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea speaks with returning panelists Brian Waters and Jim Mullins about being foreigners in Japan married to Japanese women. How do cutlural differences between make international marriages more challenging? What do the parents of a Japanese woman think about her marrying a foreign man? This week's guests share their tories and some of their insights into international marriages in Japan from the perspective of North American men.

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com
RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev
Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 90 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea speaks with two long term expats in Japan about teaching adults English. Returning guests Liam Carrigan and Kenny Hanna stop by to talk about the adult English language industry in Japan. How challenging is it to find jobs in this branch of the ESL market? How does it differ from teaching children? What are the advantages and disadvantages? Kenny, Liam and Kevin also share their experiences teaching adults not only in Japan, but South Korea and Hong Kong as well.

"Luck of Japan" Etsy shop:
https://www.etsy.com/shop/LuckofJapan

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com
RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev
Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 89 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea chats with Andrew Higgins about Gundam. Andrew tells us about the iconic Japanese animation series. What is Gundam? How popular is it here in Japan as well as abroad? Andrew also talks about building Gundam model kits as the giant life-sized Gundam mech at the Gundam Museum in Tokyo.

This week's episode also features the Just Japan Podcast "mail-bag section" where Kevin and Andrew answer some listener questions about Star Wars in Japan as well as dating.

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com
RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev
Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 88 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea chats with kendama player Ryan Cabal "rysofunny" on Instagram about the traditional Japanese trick toy, the kendama. Ryan is an American living in South Korea and a kendama enthusiast. He talks about his background as a kendama player, his frequesnt trips to Japan to participate in events as well as the kendama community in Japan, Korea and around the world.

In this episode of the podcast we learn that the kendama is certainly one cool toy and it takes a lot of practice and skill if you want to be noticed with it!

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com
RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev
Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 87 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea chats with returning guest Grace Mineta. Also known as a Texan in Tokyo on YouTube, Grace is an accomplished cartoonist, blogger and jvlogger (Japan YouTuber). Grace talks about her origins as a cartoonist, the cartoons she draws here in Japan and how she has published her work over the years. Grace talks about her web published work as well as how she was able to publish her cartoons in paperback form.

In this episode you'll hear an inspiring story of self-publishing success.

Kevin also answers listener questions in the Just Japan Podcast "mail bag" section and talks about growing facial hair in the Movember challenge to raise awareness and funds to combat prostate and testicular cancer.

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com
RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev
Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

Episode 86 of the Just Japan Podcast is all about Halloween. Kevin talks a little bit about the evolution of the Halloween celebration in Japan and we get to hear some spooky tales by "Brother Grimm" Eric Drummond. Eric is a mentalist, performer and parapsycologist based out of Japan.

Happy Halloween to all of the amazing Just Japan Podcast listeners out there!

"Luck of Japan" Etsy shop:
https://www.etsy.com/shop/LuckofJapan

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com
RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev
Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 85 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks with Japan-based writer Baye McNeil. A returning guest, Baye is a Japan Times columnist and author of " Hi! My Name is Loco and I am a Racist" and "Loco in Yokohama." Baye talks about making the transition from blogger to novelist as well as self-publishing and promoting your written work. How do you get your book out there and how do you build an audience? Baye also talks about the Japan Writer's Coference. He will be conducting a workshop at the conference on October 24th, 2015 right here in Kobe, Japan.

"Luck of Japan" Etsy shop:
https://www.etsy.com/shop/LuckofJapan

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com
RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev
Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 84 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea chats with two long-term expats living in Japan. Pee Jay and Scott join the podcast to talk about Fall in Japan. They chat about the seasonal changes, fashion, seasonal food and beverages, momiji as well as Halloween. They also answer listener questions in the "Mail Bag" portion of the show. Do Japanese people like sweets as much as Westerners? Is it acceptable to consume alcohol in public?

The two winners of the Just Japan Podcast/napaJapan.com snack food contest are announced as well.

"Luck of Japan" Etsy shop:
https://www.etsy.com/shop/LuckofJapan

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com
RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev
Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 83 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea chats with Jason from napanjapan.com about Japanese snacks. Japan is known for its amazing selection of wonderful and sometimes strange snack foods and flavors. Tomato sauce and spaghetti ice cream, sweet bean Pepsi and Eggs Benedict potato chips...all realities in Japan! No one knows more about snacks in Japan than Jason, a Canadian based out of Hokkaido who provides snacks to people all around the world via his online store, NapaJapan.

Kevin and Jason also announce a Just Japan Podcast/NapaJapan free snack pack giveaway contest!

"Luck of Japan" Etsy shop:
https://www.etsy.com/shop/LuckofJapan

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com
RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev
Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 82 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea chats with Canadian expat Patrick Kwan about playing ice hockey in Japan. Patrick started playing hockey at the age of 6 in Victoria, British Columbia. When he moved to Japan several years ago as a member of the JET Program he made sure to bring his hockey bag filled with equipment with him. He has been playing ice hockey here ever since. He currently plays with 2 teams in the Kansai area. Have you ever thought about playing hockey in Japan? Do Japanese people like the sport? Is it possible to learn the game in Japan? Can you buy hockey equipment in Japan?

You'll find out in this week's episode!

"Luck of Japan" Etsy shop:
https://www.etsy.com/shop/LuckofJapan

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com
RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev
Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 81 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks to a panel of Japan-based podcasters about "Everything Japan"! Returning guests and friends of the show sit down to chat about a variety of topics. Kat and Jenny from he Kimochi Uncensored Podcast as well as Jim and Tomoko from the Mully's Place Podcast answer Just Japan Podcast listener questions in an epic "Podcaster Party!" A wealth of Japan knowledge coming your way this week.

Etsy shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/LuckofJapan

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 80 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks to Benjamin Falck, Chris Hainge and Paul Speed of the Kyoto Brewing Company.  Find out how one of Japan's newest craft breweries got started as well as about the craft beer scene in Japan. Once upon a time beer fans in Japan were limited to rather bland options produced by  major breweries, but luckily that is changing. Ben, Chris and Paul talk about how they met years ago in Aomori Prefecture while working as teachers and how they have turned their dream of making beer into a reality.  

Sit back and listen to this interesting story of entrepreneurship and craft beer. 

Kyoto Brewing Company:

http://kyotobrewing.com/

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 80 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks to Benjamin Falck, Chris Hainge and Paul Speed of the Kyoto Brewing Company.  Find out how one of Japan's newest craft breweries got started as well as about the craft beer scene in Japan. Once upon a time beer fans in Japan were limited to rather bland options produced by  major breweries, but luckily that is changing. Ben, Chris and Paul talk about how they met years ago in Aomori Prefecture while working as teachers and how they have turned their dream of making beer into a reality.  

Sit back and listen to this interesting story of entrepreneurship and craft beer. 

Kyoto Brewing Company:

http://kyotobrewing.com/

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 79 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea speaks with a panel of returning guests about their views on Japan. Hikosaemon of YouTube fame, video blogger KansaiPj as well as writer, Liam Carriagan chat with Kevin about a variety of topics generated by the Just Japan Podcast listeners. Is it true that typical Japanese salarymen don't have time for their familes? How does health care in Japan compare to other countries'?  Have we thought about retiring in Japan? Do police in Japan profile foreigners?

These questions and more are discussed on the weekly podcast about "Everything Japan"!

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 78 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks to Percival Constantine, an American living in Japan about being a Wedding Celebrant. Sometimes refered to as "fake priests", there are companies in Japan that hire "Western looking" men to act as mock priests at weddings for Japanese couples. This is a trend that is becoming more popular in recent years in Japan. Have that "foreign themed wedding" right here in Japan! Percival also talks about his previous experience as a member of the JET Program, his transition from that job as well as his writing. Percival is also an action/adventure writer. 

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 77 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea chats with David Staggs. David, a cohost of the Mully's Place Podcast is a long-term American expat who lives and works in Shizuoka Prefecture in Japan. David came to Japan more than 20 years ago and worked as an eikaiwa (language school) teacher. David's career in English Education has now evolved an he not only runs his own school, but writes a series of ESL textbooks for a publishing country. When not running his school, being a family man or cohosting a podcast, David travels around Japan participating in conferences where he teaches people how to use his textbooks. 

This is definitely an interesting stroy of someone with a great deal of experience in Japan. 

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In this special bonus episode of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin flies solo. In Episode 76, he talks about summer in Japan. What do people do to beat the heat during the long and humid Japanese summer? Kevin answers some listener questions about Japan during the hot season and talks about some of the positive aspects of summer such as fireworks, summer festivals, yukatas and more. 

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 75 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks to Jonathan Cooper, an Australian living and working in Japan. Jonathan is an avid salt water fisherman and sea kayaker. He talks about how you can get started fishing in Japan as well as his own fishing and kayaking adventures. Jonathan has lived in several parts of Japan and now spends most of his time fishing around the islands off the coast of Hiroshima. If you are interested in the outdoors and a more relaxed lifestyle in Japan, this is the episode for you!

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

Patreon: http://patreon.com/justjapanpodcast

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 74 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks to Robby Jones, an American living and working in Japan about Judo. Robby began training in America while in universiaty and continued his Judo training in Chiba and Iwate here in Japan. He talks about the culture surrounding Judo in Japan as well as the differences one can expect between training in America versus training in Japan. 

Also in this episode, the Just Japan Podcast "mailbag" returns! Kevin answers listener questions about Japan. 

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 73 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks about typhoons in Japan. Some of this episode was actually recorded outside during Typhoon Nangka which hit parts of Japan earlier this week. Kevin also chats with long-term expat and friend of the show, Pee Jay about living in Japan during typhoon season. If you plan to live in Japan at some point, you will have to deal with typhoons. 

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/busankevin

In Episode 72 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea interviews comic artist Grace Mineta. Grace is a writer, cartoonist and video blogger living in Japan. She hails from the United States and has self-published three books of her cartoons and has the extremely popular YouTube channel "Texan in Tokyo" where she makes videos about life in Japan with her husband Ryosuke.  We talk about why she came to Japan, her comics, her writing and what it's like to be in an international marriage. Another great episode of the Just Japan Podcast to get you excited about Japan!

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 71 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks with expats Andrew Higgins (HigginsInJapan on YouTube) and Jim Mullins (Mully's Place Podcast) about their experiences with dentists here in Japan. Many describe the "dental care experience" here in Japan as quite a bit different than in other countries. You'll hear all about how it can be a great experience and how it might be a little frightening. 

In this episode Kevin also talks about the Japanese Star Festival known as "Tanabata."

Support the podcast: https://www.patreon.com/justjapanpodcast

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 70 of the Just Japan Podcast, Kevin chats with returning guest Victor Gonzalez. Victor was on epiode 24 where he talked about climbing Mt. Fuji from Sea to Summit. In this episode Victor talks about "Japanistas.com" a Japan travel and lifestyle site. He recently made the transition out the education industry and works as a writer and the editor of Japanistas.com. He also talks about how he made the Sea to Summit Mt. Fuji climb a second time. 

Kevin also answers listen questions about Japan in the Just Japan Podcast "Mail Bag" section. 

Support the podcast: https://www.patreon.com/justjapanpodcast

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 69 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks to Dr. Alex Fraser. Alex is an Australian researcher who works at a university in the northern island of Hokkaido. Alex hails from the southern Australian island of Tazmania and specializes in studying Antarctic ice. Kevin and Alex discuss how he first became interested in Japan and the path that lead him here.  They talk about his research, using drones to conduct research as well as the general culture shock and awesomeness of living and working in Japan. 

Kevin also answers some listener questions (from the Facebook page) about living in Japan. 

Support the podcast: https://www.patreon.com/justjapanpodcast

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 68 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks to returning guest Brian Waters about putting down permanent roots here in Japan. Brian, an American living and working in Japan has made the decision to live in Japan long-term with his family. They have recently built a house and are now settling in. Kevin and Brian talk about his new house, education in Japan and raising a family here. 

Support the Patreon Campaign: 

https://www.patreon.com/justjapanpodcast

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 67 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea speaks with an old friend from his days teaching in South Korea. Kevin Tarpey is an elementary school teacher from America who is about to embark on a remarkable journey for an important cause. An avid outdoorsman, Kevin lost both of his parents to cancer. In their memory Kevin plans to take on one of the most incredible physical challenges out there to raise fund for the Cam Neely Cancer Foundation. Starting next month, Kevin will thru-hike the 2000 mile (3200 km) Appalachian Trail in one go. He'll start in the American state of Maine and finish in Georgia. The entire journey will be documented on his blog. 

Kevin's AT hiking blog:

http://thegreenhoof.com/

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

Patreon: http://patreon.com/justjapanpodcast

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 66 of the Just Japan Podcast host Kevin O'Shea talks about having surgery in Japan. This can be a frightening experience no matter where you are let alone in a foreign country. Kevin talks about his recent as well as about health care/insurance and dealing with the language barrier in the Japanese health care system. What's it like to go "under the knife" in Japan? In this week's "Mail Bag" section, Kevin is joined by long-term expat in Japan and co-host of the "Mully's Place Podcast" Jim Mullins to answer listener questions!

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

Patreon: http://patreon.com/justjapanpodcast

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 65 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks to Steven Lefever and Kendall Wiliams, two independent filmmakers based in Tokyo. Both Steven and Kendall have a fascinating background in arts and film and are doing some very creative work in Tokyo. They talk about what it takes to get involved in the arts scene in Japan and how to start an indie film project. They talk about their amazing YouTube channel "Tasty English" and their independent film "Jun & Me" which has been submitted to multiple film festivals around the world.

Kevin also talks about last week's guests from the 2 Player Select Podcast, the "Football Ramblings" podcast as well as surgery in Japan!

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

Patreon: http://patreon.com/justjapanpodcast

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 64 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea chats with Clinton and Shaun, the cohosts of the 2 Player Select Podcast. Hailing from Canada and Australia, Clinton and Shaun live in Japan and host a weekly podcast that fouses on life in Japan as well as gaming. They talk to Kevin about why they came to Japan, living here and their back grounds in gaming. They also discuss what motivated them to start a weekly podcast. Kevin answers some listener questions in the Just Japan Podcast mail bag section of the show!

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

Patreon: http://patreon.com/justjapanpodcast

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 63, host Kevin O'Shea talks to Michael Gillan Peckitt about being disabled in Japan.  Michael, a Briton who has been living and working as a univeristy professor in Osaka for several years has Cerebral Palsy. He discusses how he is treated in Japan as a "gaijin" and as a person who is disabled. He also talks about the differences between the way he is treated in Japan versus his home back in Britain. Michael also shares his opinions on accessibitiy in Japan as well as possible infrastructure improvements leading up to the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. 

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

Patreon: http://patreon.com/justjapanpodcast

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 62 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks to the Jenny and Kathryn, the cohosts of the Kimochi Uncensored Podcast. They discuss life in Japan, creating online content and why they decided to start their podcast. Kevin also answers listener questions in the Just Japan Podcast mailbag section.  He talks about dangerous wildlife in Japan, school fees, teaching and living in Japan as well as the Golden Week holiday season. 

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

Patreon: http://patreon.com/justjapanpodcast

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 4 of the Tech Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks about the latest tech stories coming out of Japan.  JR Central's new Mag Lev train sets a new world record traveling 603 km/h, a mysterious drone is found on the roof of Prime Minister Abe's offices in Tokyo and Samsung is rebranding its Galaxy series of phones in Japan. 

Remember to get a slice of life and culture in Japan with Kevin's other podcast, the Just Japan Podcast weekly.

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

Patreon: http://patreon.com/justjapanpodcast

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 61 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks to Greg Lane, cofounder of the site TokyoCheapo.com. Tokyo Cheapo busts the myth that everything about visiting or living in Tokyo is expensive. Learn about the humble beginnings of this useful and diverse travel and lifestyle website. Greg also explains how it has grown into the popular and successful site it is today. Where can you get cheap food and accomodations in Tokyo? How can you see city sites on the cheap? Is it really posible to spend 3 days and 2 nights for 10,000 Yen? It's all at Tokyo Cheapo.

Kevin also talks about the results of the 2015 Podcast Awards, the amazing support of the Just Japan Podcast community (LOVE you guys), the SecretPandas podcast, upcoming episodes and chocolate!

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

Patreon: http://patreon.com/justjapanpodcast

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 60 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea chats with returning guest Jim Mullins (aka Mully), cohost of the Mully's Place Podcast about video blogging and podcasting in Japan. What does it take to start a YouTube channel or a podcast? Kevin talks about the recent 2015 Osaka YouTube Hanami Party, missing a week of the podcast and how he'll promote your podcast if you want to start one!

Also, The Fulcrum (The Univerity of Ottawa newspaper-- in Canada) recently wrote a story about the Just Japan Podcast and let's cross our fingers...the 2015 Podcast Awards will announce the winners (we're nominated for Best Travel Podcast) April 14th (Las Vegas Time)!

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

Patreon: http://patreon.com/justjapanpodcast

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 59 of the Just Japan Podcast host Kevin O'Shea talks to Mistugi and Chiaki, hosts of the Anime Addicts Anonymous Podcast. The AAA Podcast is one of the most popular podcasts about anime and Japanese popular culture. What is anime? What are some of the best known movies and tv series? If you're new to anime, what's a good starting point? This episode looks at an important part of Japanese popular culture. 

Kevin also talks about the Just Japan Podcast being featured in the Cape Breton Post (newspaper), the Kimochi Uncensored Podcast, Osaka YouTube Hanami party and spring in Japan. 

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

Patreon: http://patreon.com/justjapanpodcast

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In this episode of the Just Japan Podcast - Tech Japan podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks about Kirobo, the Japanese robot designed to keep astronauts company in space, a company that wants to put LED lights around the peak of Mount Fuji, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the new Twitter live streaming app, Periscope. 

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

Patreon: http://patreon.com/justjapanpodcast

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 58 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea chats with American jazz musician Jesse Forest. Jesse came to Osaka, Japan a little more than 4 years ago and makes his living as a professional jazz guitar player. He makes his living performing live shows and doing studio recordings here in Japan. Jesse talks about how he came to Japan, the jazz scene in Japan as well as places to buy musical equipement and where to practice in Japan. 

In this episode Kevin also talks about the Mully's Place Podcast Facebook page, the Osaka YouTube Hanami Party, the 2015 Podcast Awards, the new "Just Japan Podcast Patreon Campaign" and...ASK GOOGLE VOICE about Japan!

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

Patreon: http://patreon.com/justjapanpodcast

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 57 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea speaks with returning guest Jason Harris, the man behind "Jason's All Sumo Channel" on YouTube. They talk about the Japanese sport of Sumo and Jason tells us a little bit about the origins of sumo as well as the basic rules. What makes sumo exciting and at times controversial? They discuss the roll foreign fighters have in the sport in recent years and how some Japanese people feel about it.  Jason also talks about the various tournaments around Japan, how he became interested in the sport and how you can see it live and follow it while in Japan. 

In this episode Kevin also talks about the new Patreon campaign for the Just Japan Podcast, the 2015 Podcast Awards nomination as well as the Mully's Place Podcast tshirt campain and upcoming Osaka YouTube Hanami Party. 

VOTE daily for the Just Japan Podcast at the 2015 Podcast Awards:

http://podcastawards.com

Shownotes: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

Just Japan Podcast: Tech Japan - Hackers and Rakuten Invests in Lyft

Some of the latest tech news from Japan. The Japanese government creates new initiatives to combat cyber crime and terrorism, Seven Bank comes out with a new mobile ATM for disaster situations and Rakuten buys a stake in San Francisco ride sharing company Lyft.

VOTE DAILY for the podcast (2015 Podcast Awards):

http://podcastawards.com

Shownotes: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com 

In Episode 56 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks to Ryan Sprague, an American business owner living in Osaka, Japan. Ryan recently left the security of a full-time teaching job to start Melody English, a language school for children with his wife. Kevin and Ryan discuss the transition from being an employee to becoming your own boss as well as what it takes to be an entrepreneur here in Japan. In this episode Kevin also talks about "Just Japan Podcast: Tech Japan", weddings in Japan, the Just Japan Podcast FREE SNACK contest as well as the 2015 Podcast Awards nomination for Best Travel Podcast!

VOTE daily for the Just Japan Podcast at the 2015 Podcast Awards:

http://podcastawards.com

Shownotes: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In the first episode of Just Japan Podcast: Tech Japan, host Kevin O'Shea brings you some quick tech news stories from Japan. In this week's episode, we look at Nissan's BBQ Car as well as the end of days for Sony's Robot Dogs in Japan. 

VOTE DAILY for the podcast (2015 Podcast Awards):

http://podcastawards.com

Shownotes: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 55 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea speaks with professional photographer Stephen Jackson. Stephen came to Japan interested in photography, but landed his first job as an English teacher. He used teaching as a springboard to his photography career. Teaching got him to Japan where he honed his photography skills. Now he has left the education industry behind is a successful professional photographer working in Japan as well as around the world.  Kevin also talks about Hina Matsuri (Girl's Day) in Japan and the fact that the Just Japan Podcast has been nominated for the 2015 Podcast Award for Best Travel Podcast! YOU CAN VOTE TODAY- we need your help -  (information in the shownotes and in the show itself)!

VOTE DAILY for the podcast:

http://podcastawards.com

Shownotes: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 54 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea speaks to Jason "aka J-San" of NapaJapan.com. Jason is a Canadian who lives and works in the most northern prefecture and island in Japan, Hokkaido. Jason talks about some of the employment opporunites in the city of Sapporo where he lives. Jason also talks about the weather, lifestyle and differences between life in Hokkaido versus other parts of Japan. Jason talks about NapaJapan.com, a service that allows you to purchase Japanese snacks and treats from anywhere in the world. 

Kevin announces the FIRST ever Just Japan Podcast contest! You can win one of 3 Japanese snack packs from Napajapan.com simply by leaving a review and rating on iTunes or Stitcher! Listen to this episode for more details. 

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/busankevin

In Episode 53 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks to Japan-based YouTube content creators, Rachel and Jun. In just a few years Rachel and Jun have watched their YouTube channel grow fom its humble beginnings to having more than 300,000 subscribers. On this week's episode we talk about vlogging on YouTube, Rachel and Jun's channel, how it began to take off and what it's like to be in an international relationship in Japan. Rachel also gives some great tips to aspiring bloggers and vloggers who hope to make themselves noticed online! Hint...become part of the vlogging community!

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

YouTube: http://youtube.com/busankevin 

In Episode 52 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks to returning guests PeeJay and Mully about a wide variety of "Japan topics."  We asked Just Japan Podcast listeners (you guys) to send us questions and you did! We talk about topics such as medication in Japan, unfriendly foreigners, old technolgy, gyms and health clubs, food, geocaching, cycling in Japan and more.

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 51 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks to returning guest Jenny Silver about her experiences as a Western woman living and working in Japan. Do the challenges foreign women working in Japan differ from their male counterparts? What opportunities do foreign women working in Japan have and what can they do to prepare themselves for working in such a different culture? In this episode of the podcast, Jenny and Kevin discuss Valentine's Day in Japan. Kevin also talks about the tragic murder of well-known freelance journalist Kenji Goto, Setsubun in Japan and his recent interview on the "Kind of Epic Show" podcast.

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 50 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea looks at getting involved in the local Japanese community. Some foreigners in Japan feel they are separated from Japanese people, but Josh who lives near Osaka decided to really get involved in is community. Josh talks about his involvement with multiple community organizations in Japan and how it has given him a sense of place here.  

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 49 of the Just Japan Podcast we look back on the Great Hanshi-Awaji Earthquake (Kobe Earthquake). It struck at 5:46 am on January 17th, 1995 while the people of the city of Kobe slept. This booming port city in Japan was crippled and thousands of people lost their lives. Host Kevin O'Shea discusses the history of the event and talks to Caterina, a Kobe native who lived through the event as well as Mai, who lived in nearby Osaka at the time of the earthquake. They share their first hand experiences of that terrible day. 

This is a special episode for the Just Japan Podcast since the show is based in Kobe, Japan. 

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 48 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks to friends of the show Mully and Pee Jay about fast food in Japan. What types are available in Japan? How does it hold up quality-wise against fast food in other countries? We aslo talk about the ever-growing list of food quality scandals with McDonalds Japan in recent days and weeks! Can I have some human teeth with that burger and fries?????

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 47 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea speaks to Yokohama-based writer Baye McNeil about being a writer in Japan. Hailing from New York City, Baye has been in Japan for more than 10 years. He is well-known for his blog "Loco in Yokohama" and has written two books, "Hi! My Name is Loco and I am a Racist" and "Loco in Yokohama." Baye, also a columnist for The Japan Times discusses how he became a writer, talks about his books and other projects. 

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 46 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks to Nate Helman, producer and host of the "Nate's English Lab" podcast. Nate's podcast is an ESL show found on iTunes and is targeted at Japanese people interested in learning English. Nate talks about the history of his podcast, what it takes to produce and episode and what inspired him to come to Japan and eventually begin podcasting. 

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 45 of the Just Japan Podcast, "Christmas in Japan", host Kevin O'Shea talks to friends' of the show and long-term Japan residents Jim and Josh about what it's like to be in Japan during the Christmas holidays. Many funny experiences and stories are shared. They cover everything from Christmas illuminations to KFC! Kevin also talks to friend of the show Pee Jay about the tradition of year-end parties or "bonenkai" in Japan. They aren't just typical parties. The success of your career can sometimes be impacted your desire to participate and drink!  Some Christmas in Japan trivia is also thrown around in this fun episode.

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 44 of the Just Japan Podcast (an extra "bonus" episode), host Kevin O'Shea talks about keeping warm in the Japanese winter. This can be more challenging than you think! With winter vacation season here, it was a great time to put up two episodes in one week. The Just Japan Podcast Christmas EXTRAVAGANZA episode will be available in a few days!

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/busankevin

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 43 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks to YouTube video blogger Josh Hill (jHillLife on YouTube) about his journey to Japan. Josh discusses how his love of Japan and Japanese culture formed and how he was able to make the move from England to Japan and start a new and exciting life in Tokyo. Kevin also answers your questions in his Japan FAQ mail bag section and talks about the winter holidays here in Japan. 

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 42 of the Just Japan Podcast, contributor Felicity Tillack talks to some foreign women who have lived in Japan about their experiences dating Japanese men. Host Kevin O'Shea answers some FAQ's about Japan. Kevin also talks about teaching in Japan as well as running (or covering via social media) the 2014 Kobe Marathon. It's also time for the 2014 YouTube Christmas (jvlog) collaboration video.

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Epsidoe 41 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea interviews Victor Boggio, aka Gimmeaflakeman/Gimmeabreakman of YouTube about owning and operating an English school (eikaiwa) in Japan. Aside from being a very well-known YouTube celebrity, Victor owns and operates his own English school here in Japan. Victor discusses the history of his school and talks about what goes into opening aschool. In this episode Kevin also talks about the oddness of being in Japan during the Christmas season.

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 40 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea interviews Jenny Silver, a professional voice actor and narrator living just outside Tokyo, Japan. Jenny talks about the ins and outs of voice acting in Japan as well as how she got her start in the industry. Jenny shares her interesting story as well as some insights into the world of voice acting and narration work in Japan. 

Show notes / website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 39 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks to returning guest, Brian Waters, an American living in Kyushu who is in the process of building a house here in Japan. Brian discusses his experience deciding to build a home for his family in Japan and the process they have gone through up until the start of construction. This fascinating interview will give a lot of information and motivation to anyone out there thinking of building or buying a home in Japan. Kevin also discusses the Autumn  tradition of Imohori or sweet potato digging, a rite of passage for any kindergarten student here in Japan. 

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 38 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea answers listener questions about Japan. Can I find foreign food? Can older people find jobs teaching in Japan? Can you get American TV in Japan? Is WiFi in Japan good? What happens if you get divorced in Japan? Many more as well...

Kevin does his best to answer some of your questions about the Land of the Rising Sun.

Website: http://busankevin.com

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

RSS FEED: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 37 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea takes a look at Halloween. A number of guest contributers help Kevin look at what Halloween is in Japanese culture today, Japanese urban legends and traditions. We also look at first person spooky accounts and ghosts from Japan as well as other creepy tales.   You're definitely going to enjoy this haunted holiday podcast! 

Happy Halloween from the Just Japan Podcast.

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 36 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks to Kathryn (okininjakitty on YouTube), an American living in Japan about her experiences with some nightmare apartments in Japan. Finding a place to live is a reality everyone faces when moving to Japan and sometimes it doesn't work out for the best! In this episode Kevin also talks about Typhoon Vong Fong and Sports Day in Japan.

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

Just a quick announcement that there will be no new episode of the Just Japan Podcast this week (October 6th-12th, 2014). We'll be back next week with another awesome Japan-related topic!

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 35 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea interviews Eric Berg, also known as ericsurf6 on YouTube. With almost 250,000 subscribers and more than 100 million views on YouTube, Eric has made his name for his great tricks and puzzles videos as well as his food and adventure videos.  A long-term resident in Japan, he is a professional juggler and a very entertaining guy in general. Also in this episode, an update on the Mt. Ontake disaster and the winners of the 2014 Just Japan Podcast Halloween contest!

Show notes at: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 34 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks to John Szalay, an American who lived in Japan during the early 1990's and visits frequently. John is an avid hiker and geocacher who talks about his experiences hiking and geocachng in Japan. John has climed Mt. Fuji and has a lot of experience hiking in the Kansai Region of Japan. Kevin also talks about the sudden eruption of Mt. Ontake in Nagano and Gifu Prefectures that left 250 hikers trapped on the mountain on September 27th, 2014. 

Show notes at: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 33 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks to returning guest, Jim Mullins, aka "Mully" the cohost of the Mully's Place Podcast. They discuss meeting some pretty bizarre people in Japan as well as coping with saying goodbye to expat friends leaving Japan. Kevin also talks about homesickness during the holiday seasons as well as how to publish an eBook on Amazon.com. 

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 32 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks to long-term Japan resident and YouTube personality, Hikosaemon about getting permanent residency in Japan. Kevin also discusses tennis phenom Kei Nishikori making it to the final of the US Open, Dengue Fever in Japan as well as the Just Japan Podcast Halloween candy contest and the November 22nd Kobe/Kansai YouTube and content creators Meet Up. 

Shownotes/Website: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jlandkev

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In Episode 31 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea interviews Steve Miller, the Seoul, South Korea based writer, producer and host of the Asia News Weekly podcast. The Asia News Weekly podcast is a weekly digest of news in the Asia Pacific region. He also produces the Asia Now podcast. Steve talks about the origin of his podcasts, covering news in Asia,  as well as his transition from travel video blogger and writer to journalist. 

Show Notes (links): http://busankevin.com

Just Japan Podcast RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

In Episode 30 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks to Anthony Joh, Editor of GaijinPot.com. GaijinPot is often known for it's Japan job board, but also has many other great services such as the GaijinPot Blog, a Japanese language learning section and travel information. Anthony and Kevin also discuss finding work in Japan and Anthony gives some great advice and job hunting tips.  We also discuss the GPod, the GaijinPot podcast. 

Just Japan Podcast home: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

In Episode 29 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea shares some tales of kindness from both Japan and South Korea where he also lived for a number of years. With a great deal of bad news coming out of Japan recently such as flooding, typhoons and landslides in Hiroshima, hopefully these tales of kindesss by some strangers in a foreign land will make you feel a little happier. 

Show Notes: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Web Page: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/

In Episode 28 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks to returning guests Jeff and Liam about the ups and downs of teaching in Japan. Those who come to Japan to teach can face challenges in and out of the classroom as well as from dubious employers. Although a great place, Japan can certainly pose challenges to those who choose to work and live here. Kevin also talks about some other Japan-related podcasts. 

Show notes: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Web Page: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/

In Episode 27 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks to returning guest Pee Jay. Pee Jay has been teaching in Japan for more than 15 years. He has worked in the public and private school systems in Japan in a variety of positions. Now, a Ph.D student, Pee Jay teaches at several universities in Japan. He talks about what it takes to get a teaching position in a Japanese university and the general working lifestyle versus other teaching jobs. 

Show notes: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Webpage: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/

In Episode 26 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea interviews Jarom, an American living and working in Japan. Now in his late 20's, Jarom works as an English teacher in Tokyo, but when he was 19 years old he came to Japan for 2 years as a Mormon missionary. He talks about his experience as a missionary and how different his life is in Japan post missionary life.    

Show notes: http://busankevin.com

Web Page: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

In Episode 25 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea talks to Jason Harris about becoming a member of the (JET) Japan Exchange and Teaching Program. More than 4,000 people participate in this government run English educaction program every year in Japan. JET's work as public school Assistant Language Teachers throughout Japan. Jason is currently a university instructor in Japan, but was a JET for 5 years and is known as the "JET go to guy" on YouTube with his "myargonauts" channel.

Show notes: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Webpage: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/

In Episode 24 of the Just Japan Podcast, host Kevin O'Shea speaks to Victor (KantoKitsune on YouTube) an America living in Japan about his impressive climb of Mt. Fuji last year and again this year. He decided that tackling Fuji-san the way most do wasn't adventurous enough. Victor took on the Sea to Summit challenge from Suruga Bay to the summit of Mt. Fuji. It's a great tale and anyone with an interest in Japan, the outdoors or adventure will be inspired by this episode!

Show notes: http://busankevin.com

RSS Feed: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/rss

Web Page: http://justjapan.libsyn.com/