Last week, I took the BJT, the Business Japanese test. So, I wanted to compile all my experiences -from applying to doing the actual test- into one episode since (I think) many people do not know that this test exists. So, if you are interested in knowing more about this exam, please give this episode a listen!

On August 1st, I did something I'd never though I'd do.... speed dating. It ended up being a fun experience and.... a success in some ways! (Find out how on today's episode!)

July 26th is a special date for me because it's the date that I left Japan. So much has happened in 8 years. More than I could have imagined. Would past Matthew believe that he'd be eating dinner and watching a Netflix show about transferring jobs? Probably not! Would past Matthew also believe that he'd be studying business Japanese and reading a hospital mystery book while at work during summer vacation... also probably not! (You may be wondering, what the heck is Matthew going on about? Listen to the episode to find out!)

Are you ready to dance?

I hope so because it's bon odori time!

If you don't know what that is, don't worry. I have you covered. I did a little research about bon odori (and what an interesting history it has) along with some characteristics of this folk dance.

My friends and I did a type of bon odori (Shirotori odori) last Saturday. It was so fun, even though it was my first time. The dances are all very interesting and the people were very kind. Want to hear more? Give today's episode a listen!

Hope everyone is dealing with the crazy heat right now! I'm ready for it to be fall so that I can be comfy and wear my long sleeve clothing.

There is something nice about looking forward to things and this week, I have a lot!

Last week, I was a bit down in the dumps because of the JLPT (if you want to hear about my experience, please listen to last week's episode). To get out of that rut, I found somethings to keep me busy and force me to think about other things. Listen to what I have planned on today's episode!

Yesterday I took the JLPT N1 exam.... for the fourth time. You'd think by this time I'd have everything under control, but no, that's never the case. It was an emotional roller coaster. I'm not certain that I passed to be honest... but I'm trying to stay positive. Find out more about my experience on today's episode.

Question: What day is Canada day?

a) June 1st

b) July 1st

c) July 2nd

The answer is.... b) July 1st... which is today! This week I will be studying hard for the JLPT, but I also wanted to give you all a quiz that is related to Canada and Japan. If you're keen on trivia or just learning, give this episode a listen.

Hello everyone! It's the fourth week of June! Can't believe it. At the time of recording this episode, it was Father's Day so happy Father's Day to all the dads out there! I hope you had a great day.

Today, I wanted to share my experience of a recent karaoke outing that I had last week. I was inspired to share some of my wisdom on karaoke etiquette and general tips so that you (and others) can have a great time!

Last week, I ran into some difficulty because I'm trying to apply for repayment assistance (student loan stuff), but I can't get into any of my accounts because my phone number is no longer in use.... the joys of two-factor authentication.

Also, I'm preparing for the JLPT (for the fourth time). I feel different about the test this time around (in a good way), but I still need to lock in. Find out what I'm doing to prepare on today's episode!

Hello everyone! Hope you're doing well. Crazy that it's already June... 2026 is going by so fast.

As promised, I wanted to share where I think you should go to (and where you maybe don't need to go) if you are visiting Japan. This "itinerary" is based on what places I went to with my sister when she visited Japan for the first time! Get your notebook ready cause I have some notes!