ビジネス日本語講座
Episodes
社会に役立たない人なんていない：引きこもりから考える
19 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I explore a playful yet thought-provoking idea: the “Hikikomori Energy Industry.” In Japan, many people view hikikomori—those w...
ウォーターフォール型とアジャイル型の違いとは？日系ITの課題を解説
18 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I explain the differences between the waterfall and agile models of software development, and why many Japanese IT companies struggle...
なぜ日系ITは自分たちを“製造業”と言うのか
17 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Why do many Japanese IT companies call themselves “manufacturers”? In this episode, I explore the historical roots of Japan’s major IT vendors, ...
日系企業が好む「一を聞いて十を知る」文化の光と闇
16 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I explore what kind of people thrive in Japanese companies. While ability is valued everywhere, in Japan “personal trust” and ant...
サラリーマン脳とは何か、そしてそこから抜け出す方法
15 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This episode explores the concept of the “salaryman mindset” and why it can become a major obstacle after leaving corporate life. I discuss its th...
30分で飽きる会社の飲み会について
14 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I talk about company drinking parties and why I often get bored after just 30 minutes. Drawing from my experiences in Japanese office...
転職の不安を乗り越える〜誰に認められれば居場所ができるのか
13 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I discuss the challenges of building relationships after changing jobs, especially in Japanese companies. Many believe that impressin...
型を身に付けることは、本当にそんなに大切なのか？
12 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I explore the question: Is mastering the “form” or “kata” really that important? Drawing from my own experience in Japanese c...
サラリーマンを描いた映画やドラマは少ない気がする
11 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I explore why films and TV dramas focused on Japanese “salarymen” are surprisingly rare, even though the corporate world is full ...
サラリーマン社会における能力主義への違和感
10 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I share my personal reflections on the idea of meritocracy in Japan’s corporate world. While many believe we should work in fields ...
なぜ“毒にも薬にもならない話”が求められるのか？
09 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I discuss why conversations that seem to be “neither helpful nor harmful” are so common, especially in workplace settings. Drawin...
「出世するには喫煙室に行け？」――日本企業に残る“裏の評価軸”
08 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I explore how smoking areas in Japanese companies often serve as informal networking hubs — places where unspoken decisions, evalua...
年を重ねることの価値――それでも敬意は必要だと思う
07 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In today’s episode, I explore the value of aging in modern workplaces. As society increasingly favors youth and innovation, older generations are of...
脱皮するように働き方を変える――痛みをともなう選択
06 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I explore the deeper meaning of career change—not as a mere step up, but as a form of "shedding one's skin." Like ani...
現代を生き抜くための3つの心の習慣
05 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In today’s episode, I explore how to maintain a healthy mindset in a world full of invisible pressures — from climate change and economic disparit...
あえて計画を立てないことが有効に作用することもある
04 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Sometimes, not having a plan can lead to the most meaningful outcomes. In this episode, I share my thoughts on how embracing spontaneity and following...
自己責任論の限界――“頑張れば報われる”社会は本当に公平か？
03 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I reflect on the limits of the “personal responsibility” mindset that’s often used to judge people who struggle. While I believ...
郷に入っても従えなかった私の話
02 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I share a deeply personal story from my time working in Laos. What began as a warm friendship with a local colleague ended abruptly, ...
楽な営業職の見つけ方｜元営業マンが語るリアルな現場と抜け道
01 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I share real-life experiences from my career as a salesman—both the struggles of hard sales and the relief I found in easier roles ...
喫茶店で仕事をすることについて
31 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I talk about the surprising power of working in a café. While I usually work from my home office surrounded by books, sometimes the ...
正社員神話の終わりと、自由な生き方の可能性
30 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I reflect on the rising number of freelancers in Japan and what this shift means for society. Traditionally, Japanese work culture ha...
文化相対主義が保守を支える？思想の逆転と現代のジレンマ
29 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I explore how cultural relativism—once a hallmark of liberal thought—has been increasingly used to justify conservative ideologie...
職場の“平等ごっこ”に疲れる理由 〜美意識と偽善のあいだで〜
28 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I talk about the silent pressure to act “equally” in the workplace. While fairness and respect are essential, suppressing our nat...
なぜ“下品”な日本文化が世界を魅了するのか
27 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I explore the paradox of how vulgar, shallow, and chaotic elements of Japanese pop culture—often dismissed domestically—gain trac...
常識と狂気、その先にある第三の道
26 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I explore the tension between conformity and individuality in today’s work culture. Based on my own experiences, I question whether...
騒がしい場所が苦手な私が、異国の地で感じた違和感と発見
25 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I reflect on my experience working in a Southeast Asian country where social life revolves around loud drinking parties and karaoke. ...
節約と浪費のあいだで考えること
24 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I reflect on the hidden costs of buying cheap goods, like those from 100-yen shops. While low prices may seem convenient, poor qualit...
マイクロマネージャー養成講座
23 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this satirical episode, we explore a fictional “training course” designed to turn you into the perfect micro-manager. From obsessively monitori...
AI時代の生き残り戦略：マイクロマネージャーになれ！
22 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this thought-provoking episode, we explore a paradoxical survival strategy in the age of AI: becoming a micromanager. As automation and generative ...
スキルの正解が消えた社会で、私たちはどう働くのか
21 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I reflect on a growing uncertainty many people face today—what skills to learn, what work to pursue, and how to live meaningfully i...
サプライチェーンの上流に行けば、営業はこんなにラクになる
20 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Are all sales jobs equally tough? Not really. In this episode, we dive into the connection between sales roles and supply chain management (SCM). Disc...
付き合い残業、どう断る？｜日本企業の空気と戦う方法
19 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we dive into the Japanese workplace culture of "obligatory overtime"—staying late just because others do. Why does this s...
“好き”を仕事にするのが本当に幸せかどうかについて
18 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Should we turn what we love into a career? In this episode, I explore the challenges of pursuing passion as work. I also share why it's okay not t...
「CCメールを読んで学べ？」新人を困らせる職場のリアル
17 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Many new employees are told to “learn by reading CC’d emails” — but what if those emails make no sense? In this episode, I share my own confus...
思考停止の組織で、考え続ける人たち
16 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I reflect on what it means to be truly intelligent within the rigid structures of Japanese corporate life. While true thinkers often ...
転職してすぐに転職活動を開始してもいいのか
15 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Is it okay to start job hunting immediately after changing jobs? In this episode, I discuss the challenges and realities of switching jobs quickly, in...
なぜ日本ではファックスや紙のダイレクトメールがまだ使われているのか
14 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I talk about why fax machines and paper direct mail are still common in Japan, especially among small and mid-sized companies. Based ...
日本人が「環境を変えよう」と言えない理由
13 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we challenge the popular self-help phrase: “Don’t blame your environment—change yourself.” While personal growth is important...
早朝出勤が義務化されていた会社
12 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I share my personal experience with mandatory early morning shifts at a small company in Thailand. Despite hoping for more freedom ou...
なぜ、権力者はお局について語らないのか
11 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we explore the silent but powerful role of the “otsu-bone” — an unofficial figure who holds sway in many Japanese offices, ofte...
「明日から本気出す」のススメ
10 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we explore the often-mocked phrase “I’ll start being serious tomorrow.” Rather than seeing it as laziness, we reframe it as a f...
ジジ殺しとババ殺しは両立できない 〜日系企業で生き抜く処世術〜
09 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This episode dives into the unspoken dynamics of Japanese workplaces, focusing on two types of influential figures: older male bosses ("Jiji"...
やる気がすべての源泉になる
08 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This episode marks the 1-year anniversary of this podcast. I reflect on the importance of motivation in language learning and life. Motivation isn'...
ホワイトカラーによる水商売蔑視と日本社会の階層意識
07 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I explore the hidden class biases in Japanese society, focusing on the stigma surrounding nightlife and food service industries. Many...
大義名分モンスター：正義の仮面に潜む支配の罠
06 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we explore the concept of the "Righteousness Monster"—the dangerous use of noble causes to justify control and manipulati...
なぜ成功者は焼肉屋を開くのか？―日本人に欠けた「引退の設計図」
05 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Why do so many Japanese celebrities, athletes, and business leaders open yakiniku (grilled meat) restaurants after retirement? In this episode, I expl...
“そのままの自分”で社会を生き抜くことはできるのか？
04 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Why do some people seem to live effortlessly as their true selves, while others struggle behind masks? In this episode, I explore the mystery of those...
金は動く、だが社会には還元されない
03 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I reflect on my past experience as a door-to-door salesperson and expose the darker side of individual sales culture in Japan. From a...
若さにあぐらをかく時代に、敬意はどこへ消えた？
02 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I reflect on my time working in Laos and explore the global tendency to overvalue youth and physical beauty. While I appreciated the ...
逆らってくる肉食社員を排斥するな
01 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I reflect on how organizations often undervalue outspoken, "carnivorous" employees while favoring obedient, "herbivoro...
自然体の演技――日本社会と職業人の二重性
30 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I explore what it means to "wear a mask" as a professional in Japanese society. While some people appear to live authentica...
老いとは、人生の厚みである
29 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I reflect on a popular trend on social media—comparing celebrities' youthful photos with their current appearance—and questio...
なぜ“サラリー”という言い回しが心に残ったのか
28 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I reflect on the word "salaryman" and why it feels limiting when used as a self-introduction in Japanese society. I explore...
製造業で働くことになったら最初にやるべき勉強とは
27 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I respond to a listener’s question about how to prepare for a job in the Japanese manufacturing industry, especially with little to...
なぜ日本の会議では誰も笑わないのか
26 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Why are so many business meetings in Japan so dull and unproductive? In this episode, I reflect on two key issues: top-down communication that discour...
生活のために選んだ仕事でなければ、身に付かない仕事もあるだろう
25 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I talk about how the jobs we take just to make a living can sometimes lead to unexpected growth. Drawing from my own experience in a ...
会議で何も言わずに、存在感を保つ処世術
24 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I share practical techniques to maintain a strong presence in meetings—without speaking. From subtle nods to strategic note-taking ...
How to Do Nothing at Work and Still Get Paid の裏話
23 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Behind the scenes of "How to Do Nothing at Work and Still Get Paid."In this episode, I share the story behind my new Udemy course, which exp...
働かせてもらうから、働いてやっているへの意識の転換を図る
22 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we explore a mindset shift: from “I’m grateful to be employed” to “I bring value through my work.” Many Japanese employees ...
からかいは笑いか、それとも差別か？ 職場での見た目いじりを考える
21 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I reflect on the issue of mocking physical appearances—specifically baldness—in the workplace. While it may be brushed off as har...
なぜ日本人は“経営者目線”で働きたがるのか？
20 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Why do Japanese employees work so hard with a “CEO mindset” — even when they don’t own the company? This episode explores the deep-rooted cult...
日系企業の停滞感の根っこにある問題とは何か
19 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, the host delves into the deeper reasons behind the stagnation of Japanese companies. He reflects on how workplace culture often disco...
会社をクビになるのは大した事じゃない
18 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Getting fired sounds like a nightmare—but is it really the end? In this honest and personal episode, I share my own experiences of being let go (mor...
「論理の万力」から始まった小さな奇跡
17 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I talk about how posting a calligraphy piece titled "The Vise of Logic" on YouTube Shorts brought me one new subscriber —...
仕事で楽をしようとするのは悪いことでは無い
16 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I challenge the outdated notion that working hard always means working long hours. Drawing on my experience in Japan and abroad, I di...
ゴルフはサラリーマンがプチブルのような気分を味わうためのものである
15 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Why do so many Japanese salarymen feel pressured to play golf—even on their precious days off?In this episode, I share my experience working in Thai...
愚痴は毒か、それとも表現の源か？
14 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I reflect on my past experiences working in Southeast Asia and the complex emotions I felt toward certain local colleagues. I explore...
雇い主の期待値は上げすぎてもいけないし、下げすぎてもいけない
13 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
What does it really take to pass a probation period at work? In this episode, we explore the delicate balance between meeting expectations and protect...
求人サイトに載っていたら注意すべきキーワード
12 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we explore seemingly positive keywords like “passion,” “gratitude,” and “company values” that could actually be red flags...
市役所の支所のような職場は一見楽そうに見えるが、人によってはきつい職場だろう
11 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Today, let’s talk about working in public offices. At first glance, it seems easier than private companies—cool offices, regular hours, less press...
自己分析にまつわる胡散臭さについて
10 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In Japan, job hunting starts with “self-analysis” — but is it truly helpful or just an empty ritual? In this episode, I unpack why this process ...
日系企業で鍛えられたら、世界のどこの企業でも大丈夫だろう
09 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I discuss the unique business culture of Japanese companies, focusing on strict etiquette like exchanging business cards and the impo...
工場こそコミュニケーションスキルが必要とされる
08 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Discover the real challenges and surprises of working in Japanese factories through personal stories and honest reflections. This episode explores the...
コミュニケーション能力とは畢竟ゴマスリの能力である
07 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I explore how the concept of communication has evolved in Japanese society—from silent diligence being a virtue to the rising impor...
日系企業で喜ばれる経営者目線というマインドセット
06 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I talk about the mindset known as "thinking like a CEO" and why it is highly valued in Japanese companies. Many foreigners ...
誰かに相談した上で決断しうまくいかなかったら相談した人のせいにしてしまう。だから重要な決断は自分でした方が良い。
05 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we explore why it’s important to make major life decisions on your own rather than relying on others’ advice. The host discusses ...
会社ガチャについて思うこと
04 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I reflect on the concept of “company gacha,” a popular slang in Japan referring to the unpredictable nature of joining a new comp...
ウソとハッタリは違うという言葉は自己欺瞞に通じる
03 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we take a closer look at the idea that “a bluff is not a lie,” a phrase often used in business and social situations. While bluff...
日本人上司に食事を奢ってもらう際のマナーについて
02 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
If you work in a Japanese company, you may be invited to dinner by your Japanese boss. In principle, the person who invites you to dinner should pay, ...
結論から先に言えという指導がもたらす弊害について。
01 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
A conclusory style of communication is required in Japanese companies. In Japanese companies, you are often instructed to say the conclusion first whe...
書くこと、描くこと、そして“通じる”という事
31 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I talk about a recent shift in my creative expression—from speaking to creating short-form visual content on YouTube. As someone wh...
他人の自画自賛の話は聞いているのがしんどい
30 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
When working as a company employee, it is not enough to simply face your work quietly and honestly. You need to repeatedly promote yourself to your su...
職選びで一番大事なのは興味のある仕事をやることだと思う
29 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
When choosing a job, you may choose a job because it pays well or because it seems to have a high social status. That may be the right choice from a s...
質にこだわるか量稽古していくか
28 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
To improve your skills in any field, you should practise a lot at first. It is rare to get it right the first time. If you think it is normal to make ...
日系企業で文弱の徒の居場所はあるのか
27 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In the industrial society of the past, athletes were valued by companies. This was because gymnasts followed orders obediently, were physically fit an...
指示待ち族は嫌われるが、独断専行でやられたらそれはそれで困る
26 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In Japanese companies, subordinates who cannot move without instructions from their superiors are not highly valued. On the other hand, if a subordina...
ビジネスマンはタテの競争にはまりがちである
25 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In the age of the global economy, both companies and people face tough competition. Both companies and people will find that they have to differentiat...
面接慣れをするために、面接を受けまくることの是非について
24 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
When it comes to interviewing for a job, experience still counts. Interviews are not a chore once you get used to them, but if you don't have much...
ビジネスの世界で本気という言葉を使うと、途端に胡散臭くなる
23 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
One of the favourite words in the Japanese business community is ‘serious’. This word is probably supported by many businessmen in Japan. However,...
旅に意味を見出さない日本人サラリーマンが多い
22 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
If you work in a Japanese company, it can still be difficult to take long holidays. For many Japanese salarymen, travelling is a way of experiencing u...
夢と現実にはある程度の距離があったほうがいい
21 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
As you live in the world, there will be occasions when you will have to talk about your dreams in public. The size of this dream matters. Dreams that ...
若者のアテンションスパンが短くなっているから、会議も短くしないといけない
20 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
One of the characteristics of Japanese companies is that meetings are long. It is meaningful as a salaried worker to attend long meetings, even if you...
日系企業では酒の話は当たり障りがない話題
19 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
When working in a Japanese company, you cannot just do the job in front of you. If you only do your job, people around you will see you as someone wit...
圧迫面接をしてくる企業はせめて交通費は出してほしい
18 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Pressure interviews still take place in Japanese companies. There are many opinions on pressure interviews, but my personal opinion is that it is bett...
ビジネスは長く続ければ良いというわけではない
17 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
There is a saying that persistence pays off. In Japan, the meaning of the term seems to be misunderstood and perceived by people. There is no point in...
現地語を学ぼうとしない日本人駐在員
16 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
A number of Japanese expatriates are unwilling to learn the local language. They may think that they don't need to learn the local language becaus...
サラリーマンの世界は結果が全てではない
15 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In the business world, it is often said that business is all about results. This also applies to sports. In sports, the results of winning and losing ...
金を稼ぐ事は偉いことではない
14 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In modern times, capitalists tend to be celebrated as heroes. The ability to make money is only one of the human faculties. Nevertheless, nowhere is t...
法人営業なら休日の電話対応はほぼしなくて済む
13 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
People may wonder whether it is better to choose corporate or personal sales when working as a salesperson. If you choose personal sales, you may rece...
インタビュー「アメリカにあるブラック日系企業」ゲスト：ウィリアムさん
11 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Today we invited William, an American who is fluent in Japanese, as our guest to talk about exploitative Japanese companies in the United States.-----...