I invited YUYU to talk with me about how we celebrate birthdays. He explained Mexican traditions where the birthday person brings cake to share, and how parties are almost a must. I shared my own recent birthdays spent alone, from traveling to quiet reflection. We also talked about family memories, including YUYU’s wish to thank his parents on his birthday. Together we explore how birthdays can be about parties, gratitude, or simply enjoying life at your own pace.

🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com

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I invited YUYU to talk with me about competition and motivation. He told me stories from his childhood, playing baseball, and why he finally quit swimming. As a coach, he realized that sports can be fun without rivalry. Together we discussed how competition gives energy but can also create pressure, and how curiosity or personal goals can be just as powerful. This talk made me reflect on my own way of finding motivation.

🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com

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In this episode, we sit down with YUYU to explore cashless culture and money mindsets in Japan and Mexico. From credit vs. debit cards to QR code payments, we discuss how people pay in daily life and why attitudes toward debt, saving, and responsibility differ across cultures.

We also share personal stories about growing up with certain money values and how they shape spending habits today. A fun, insightful episode for Japanese learners interested in culture beyond the classroom!

🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com

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In this episode, I talk about three unique coffee characters I met in Osaka. First, a “Coffee Doctor” who keeps detailed “bean records” for customers, just like a clinic. Second, a lively “Osaka Mom” clerk who gave me advice and free coffee at Yodobashi Camera.

Finally, a kind “Coffee Sage,” an elderly roaster who offered generous service at unbelievably low prices. These encounters show how human connection makes Japan’s coffee culture so special.

🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com

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In this podcast episode, I talk about “Mental Health Care That Really Worked for Me. I wasn’t feeling great...

Japan’s humid summer kept me inside, inactive, and moody. So I tried five simple routines: morning walks, deep cleaning, swimming, chatting with people, and keeping a sketch diary. These small changes really helped my mood, sleep, and energy. I also share a few cultural insights about life in Japan. Like elementary school swimming classes, sketch diaries, and school trips to Kyoto and Nara. Tune in for practical wellness tips and a peek into Japanese daily life!

🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com

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Japan is famous for curry rice, but did you know there’s another kind of curry that goes beyond it? In this episode, explore “Soup Curry,” a Sapporo-born dish with hearty vegetables, customizable toppings, and unique soup bases. Learn how it differs from curry rice, how to order it, and pick up useful food-related vocabulary and cultural insights along the way.

🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com

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Today, I’m joined by Miku for a casual conversation about the “Five Love Languages.”

We talk about how each of us expresses and feels love differently—through words, quality time, gifts, acts of service, or physical touch. You’ll hear fun personal stories, cultural insights, and natural Japanese expressions from our dialogue.

Which love language speaks to you?💖

🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com

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While preparing for a trip with my mom, I noticed our 金銭感覚(kin-sen kankaku - our sense of money) was completely different. I’m a minimalist saver, while she enjoys shopping and new experiences. In this episode, I share our story, introduce useful Japanese vocabulary, and invite you to reflect on your own spending style.

Are you more careful with money, or do you enjoy spending freely?

🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com

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In Japan, people often resolve workplace conflicts without saying things directly. This episode reveals four common approaches—consulting a third party, keeping distance, gentle communication, and using HR—based on real-life examples. Gain insight into indirect communication, subtle signals, and cultural nuances that shape Japanese work environments, so you can work and communicate more effectively in Japan.

🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com

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On a trip back to my parents’ home, I found old photos, purikura, and stories that brought my childhood back to life. Was I shy? Adventurous? Maybe a little unexpected? In this lighthearted episode, I talk about the traits that shaped little me, how some things have changed, and how others… really haven’t.

🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com

Search by episode number (e.g., “EP 120”) to find what you need!🐧 Join the Penguin Family for bonus content & support the show! Your support helps keep this podcast alive and means a lot to me. Thank you for considering!