KanDenko – A Perfectly Executed Ad

During my morning commute on the Yamanote Line, an ad from KanDenko began playing across the train car’s video screens. For the handful of us not completely absorbed in our phones, it immediately captured our attention. Before that moment, I had never heard of KanDenko. But I can say with …

Emotional Intelligence: A Must-Have Skill for the Global Workplace

Over the years, having held leadership roles in global organizations, I’ve learned a great deal about what it truly takes to manage remote teams effectively. Motivating employees halfway across the world requires a very different set of skills than managing those sitting a few desks away. It demands intentional communication, …

Google Maps: A Growing Platform for Reviews and Local Discovery

Google Maps has quietly evolved into one of the most influential user review and business discovery platforms in the world. While services like Yelp and Tripadvisor still hold strong positions, Google’s continued investment in Maps should give them reason to pay attention. Nearly every business on the planet is already …

Discover Gapminder: A Powerful Way to Visualize Global Trends

If you have not explored Gapminder yet, it is worth taking a look. Gapminder is a fascinating online tool that helps users visualize global data in a clear and engaging way. In their own words, they are “a modern museum that helps to make the world understandable, using the Internet.” …

Shinzo Abe Addresses US Congress

This address by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe marks a significant moment in the relationship between Japan and the United States. It reflects the deep economic, political, and cultural ties shared by both nations, and highlights Japan’s ongoing commitment to global stability, democratic values, and international cooperation. Prime Minister Abe’s speech …

Japanese Web and Mobile Study Resources

Japanese Web and Mobile Study Resources I recently decided to step up my Japanese studies and began exploring the best web tools, apps, and study methods available today. There are countless resources out there, both free and paid, and I wanted to share some of the most useful ones I …

The Billion Dollar Startups

Curious about the most valuable startups in the world? The Wall Street Journal maintains an up to date list of the companies that have reached the billion dollar valuation mark. It is an interesting way to stay informed about fast growing innovators and the trends shaping the global startup ecosystem. …

Japan’s High-Tech Touch Panel Vending Machines Redefine Retail

Japan has always been known for its creative and innovative vending machines, but the latest generation sets a new benchmark. At first glance, this unit looks more like a sleek flat-screen display attached to a refrigeration system than a traditional vending machine. The large touchscreen shows every available drink with …

Abercrombie & Fitch Opens First Asian Flagship Store in Tokyo Ginza

On December 15, 2009, Abercrombie & Fitch opened its first flagship store in Asia, located in the heart of Tokyo’s Ginza district. Positioned along the iconic Chuo-dori and next to the Ferragamo flagship and the Matsuzakaya department store, the new space immediately became a landmark within one of Tokyo’s most …

Fashion Asia LinkedIn Group Reaches 1,000 Members

Great news. One of the fastest growing LinkedIn groups focused on the intersection of fashion and Asia has officially surpassed 1,000 members worldwide. The growth has been incredible, and it reflects the strong demand for a community where fashion professionals across Asia can connect, collaborate, and share insights. To support …

Launching the Fashion Asia Group on LinkedIn

Hello LinkedIn community. I am excited to share that I have launched a new LinkedIn group called Fashion Asia. In just two weeks, the group has grown to more than 100 members, bringing together talented professionals from across the fashion industry in the APAC region. If you work in fashion …

Leading Abercrombie & Fitch’s Japan Market Entry and Asia Expansion

I am excited to share some career news. I have joined Abercrombie & Fitch to lead the company’s entry into the Japanese market and its expansion across Asia. This is an important milestone in my career, and I am looking forward to helping bring the brand’s iconic retail experience to …