Krewe of Japan

In this week's episode, the Krewe sit down with famous comedian and Youtuber, Dogen! In Part 1, Dogen shares his background including how he became interested in Japan and its culture, his background in martial arts tricking, early attempts at learning Japanese, his path to writing comedy in Japanese, and so much more.Stay tuned for Part 2 of the discussion next week, where the Krewe dives deep into Japanese study and specifically pitch-accent with the maestro himself!For more on Dogen visit:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSX0NhNdBA-ZnEFkYFzdw4Ahttps://www.patreon.com/dogenhttps://twitter.com/dogenThis podcast is brought to you by the Japan Society of New Orleans:https://japansocietyofneworleans.wildapricot.org/

The Krewe rings in 2022 with a deep-dive look back at a wild and crazy 2021. Nigel, Jenn & Doug recap many of the major news stories that came out of Japan in 2021, from the Covid-19 & Olympics to Starbucks regional fraps & Mie Prefecture's crackdown on dog pee. Join the Krewe in saying goodbye to 2021 on last time! For more on the Japan Society of New Orleans visit:https://japansocietyofneworleans.wildapricot.org/

The return of the Rapid Fire Questions! In the first RFQ of season 2, Daniel Morales steps up to the plate to try and answer as many random questions as he can in 2 minutes! Be sure to check out Daniel's full episode "Learning Japanese Through Literature ft. Daniel Morales"!Daniel's Website:http://howtojaponese.com/about/Japan Society of New Orleans:https://japansocietyofneworleans.wildapricot.org/

In the final part of this 2-part episode, Doug and Nigel conclude their discussion with Rob Dyer (founder and CEO of The Real Japan). This time they tackle the specific off the beaten path recommendations in the Kansai area, from onsen town and art museums, to giant torii and castles in the sky. They also discuss helpful topics like navigating via taxis and with little Japanese. Post interview Doug and Nigel discuss their thoughts on their interview with Rob. As always, buckle up, this is an episode you don't want to miss! For more on Rob Dyer and his company The Real Japan visit:https://www.therealjapan.com/https://twitter.com/TheRealJapan1?s=20 For more on the Japan Society of New Orleans visit:https://japansocietyofneworleans.wildapricot.org/

In this part 1 of this 2-part episode, Doug and Nigel sit down with Rob Dyer (founder and CEO of The Real Japan). The Krewe and Rob cover a lot of ground in this episode from Rob's visit to the Krewe's home of New Orleans, his backstory of falling in love with Japan, and meeting his wife via a penpal exchange to Rob's first journeys to Kansai, the beginning of our conversation on off the beaten path travel, and planning for serendipity. Buckle up, this is an episode you don't want to miss!Be sure to catch part 2 of the interview airing next week! For more on Rob Dyer and his company The Real Japan visit:https://www.therealjapan.com/https://twitter.com/TheRealJapan1?s=20 For more on the Japan Society of New Orleans visit:https://japansocietyofneworleans.wildapricot.org/

In this episode, Doug and Jenn take a deep dive adventure into the world of Japanese trains! From what to expect when coming to Japan and taking a train, to tips, tricks, and taboos. For more on the Japan Society of New Orleans:https://japansocietyofneworleans.wildapricot.org/

In this Week's episode, the Krewe take on the age old subbed vs dubbed anime debate. In addition to sharing their perspectives on the debate, they sit down with voice acting veteran, Dan Woren (Bleach, Naruto, Fate/Zero and so much more), who shares his journey into voice acting, the process of voice acting in anime and video games, and his take on the subbed versus dubbed debate. Along the way, Dan and the Krewe talk breaking toes, anime conventions, and even Star Trek?!? This is an episode you won't want to miss!For more on Dan Woren:Be sure to catch him at the Pasadena Comic Con on January 23, 2021! and check out his extensive body of work:https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0199965/ For more on the Japan Society of New Orleans:https://japansocietyofneworleans.wildapricot.org/

This week on the Krewe of Japan Podcast, the Krewe is back with another language learning episode! In this one, they sit down for an in depth discussion on learning Japanese via literature. The Krewe is joined by translator and host of "How to Japanese Podcast", Daniel Morales. He shares with the Krewe his language learning journey, resources for those all levels of Japanese learners, and the proper mindset in approaching learning a new language. Jam packed with tons of resources, tips, and study aids, if you're looking to sharpen your Japanese skills, this is an episode you don't want to miss!For more on the How To Japanese Podcast:http://howtojaponese.com/tag/how-to-japanese-podcast/ For more on the Japan Society of New Orleans:https://japansocietyofneworleans.wildapricot.org/

In this episode, the Krewe are re-joined by a guests from season 1, Kay Allen (Japan National Tourism Organization) to discuss all things Hokkaido! With the distinction of being the largest prefecture in Japan, Hokkaido offers some of the top winter sports experiences in Japan, incredible natural landscapes, and the chance to learn about the culture and history of the indigenous Ainu people. The Krewe and Kay take listeners on a journey through Hokkaido, exploring what to see and do, where to stay, how to travel there, and so much more! If you are planning a trip to Japan (especially Hokkaido) for the future, this is an episode you do not want to miss!For more on the Japan National Tourism Organization:https://www.japan.travel/en/ For more on the Japan Society of New Orleans:https://japansocietyofneworleans.wildapricot.org/

In this episode, the Krewe dive into experiencing Japan as a student via studying abroad. They share different methods of studying abroad, what studying abroad encompasses, and essential lessons they learned during their time studying in Japan. From personal experiences to tips on financing your journey, they cover it all. If you've ever had a desire to visit Japan, and are still a student, this is an essential episode for you! For more on the UNO-Japan Program:https://www.uno.edu/studyabroad/japan For more on the Japan Society of New Orleans:https://japansocietyofneworleans.wildapricot.org/

In this spooky Halloween themed episode, the Krewe takes a journey into the supernatural and discusses the world of Yokai. On the journey, the Krewe are joined by authors Hiroko Yoda & Matt Alt, authors of the book "Yokai Attack: The Japanese Monster Survival Guide". From the origins and its development through the years, to questions like "is cookie monster a Yokai?!" and important locations for Yokai pilgrimages in Japan, nothing is off the table in this episode. Happy Halloween!For more on Hiroko & Matt visit:Yokai Attack: The Japanese Monster Survival Guide: Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ninetail_foxQ. https://twitter.com/Matt_AltWebsite: https://www.altjapan.com/For more on the Japan Society of New Orleans:https://japansocietyofneworleans.wildapricot.org/

In this week's episodes, the Krewe discuss visiting Japanese theme parks. From onsen and hawaii themed parks, to Disney and Universal Studios, Japan has a lot to offer when it comes to scratching your theme park itch. The Krewe shares their experiences visiting parks, and later in the episode are joined by Youtuber content creator Chris Nilghe of TDR Explorer to get an expert insight on tips, tricks, and helpful information on visiting theme parks in Japan.

In this episode of the Krewe of Japan Podcast, Doug, Jennifer and Nigel dive into the world of manga. The Krewe provides an intro to manga for those unfamiliar with it, notable characteristics, and why you should consider reading it. In the second half of the episode, the Krewe sits down with Danica Davidson, author of 17 books and frequent manga writer for major publications, to discuss her career path, the manga industry, and things you might not have known about what goes into making manga!This is an episode you don't want to miss! For more on Danica Davidson and her books: https://danicadavidson.com/For more on the Japan Society of New Orleans: https://www.japansocietyofneworleans.org

It’s that time of year again… and no, we aren’t talking about Christmas music already playing in stores. It’s JET Program Application SZN! Nigel, Jenn, & Doug chat with Tye Ebel, the JET Coordinator for the Consulate-General of Japan in Nashville, to discuss all things JET Application Process. Tye shares some great points on what to consider when considering applying for the JET Program, whether it’s for this year or preparing your resume for the future. Don’t forget.. application deadline is November 12, 2021!The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly episodic podcast sponsored by the Japan Society of New Orleans. Check them out every Friday afternoon around noon CST on Apple, Google, Spotify, Amazon, and Stitcher. Want to share your experiences with the Krewe? Or perhaps you have ideas for episodes, feedback, comments, or questions? Let the Krewe know by e-mail at [email protected] or on social media (Twitter: @kreweofjapan, Instagram: @kreweofjapanpodcast, Facebook: Krewe of Japan Podcast Page, & the Krewe of Japan Youtube Channel). Until next time, enjoy!

TADAIMA! The Krewe is BACK! Season 2 kicks off October 1st at 12p CST, and Nigel, Jenn, & Doug are coming in hot with this super-sized special first episode! The Krewe goes down the rabbit hole that is Studio Ghibli, talking about some history behind the famous animation studio and their favorite films. Then, Steve Alpert, former Senior Vice President at Studio Ghibli and author of Sharing a House with the Never-Ending Man: 15 Years at Studio Ghibli, joins the Krewe for a deep dive into what it was like to work with Miyazaki & how he played a pivotal role in in bringing Ghibli favorites to international markets. You don’t want to miss this one!The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly episodic podcast sponsored by the Japan Society of New Orleans. Check them out every Friday afternoon around noon CST on Apple, Google, Spotify, Amazon, and Stitcher. Want to share your experiences with the Krewe? Or perhaps you have ideas for episodes, feedback, comments, or questions? Let the Krewe know by e-mail at [email protected] or on social media (Twitter: @kreweofjapan, Instagram: @kreweofjapanpodcast, Facebook: Krewe of Japan Podcast Page, & the Krewe of Japan Youtube Channel). Until next time, enjoy!

In this brief podcast update, the Krewe discuss the recent major hurricane which made landfall in Louisiana, how each member of the Krewe is doing and provide an update on the progress of season 2.Get ready to pack your audio suitcases and join us once again on our weekly audio journeys into Japanese culture, history, pop-culture, and so much more! Season 2 will officially be launching October 1, 2021! Subscribe today to stay up to date with the latest from the podcast!This podcast is brought to you by the Japan Society of New Orleans (JSNO)! For more on the JSNO or to become a member:http://www.japansocietyofneworleans.org/

In this between season bonus episode, the amazing Matt Alt (our very first podcast guest) stops by for a Rapid Fire Question Challenge. From Rick James, Big Tex McDonalds sandwiches, and sake flavored KitKats, nothing is off limits in this challenge!Been missing your weekly audio journeys to Japan?! Keep your eyes peeled for more information on our season 2 launch coming soon! Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts and to our social media to stay up to date with the latest from the podcast!

Just like that, Season 1 comes to a close! Nigel, Jenn, & Doug peel back the curtain and reflect on all the behind-the-scenes effort & challenges that went into launching, continuing, and finishing the inaugural season of Krewe of Japan! They discuss their favorite episodes , re-visit bloopers (#DougThings), read out some listener feedback, & tease what’s to come! Don’t miss out on this fun stroll down memory lane and help re-live the first season (of hopefully many) of the Krewe of Japan Podcast. See you in August for Season 2! Mata kondo ne!For more on the Japan Society of New Orleans:http://www.japansocietyofneworleans.org/

Did you know New Orleans is the home to the Gulf Coast’s only sake brewery? The Krewe didn’t until a few weeks ago! In this episode, Doug& Nigel sit down and reminisce about their first encounters with sake before sitting down for a sake deep dive with Brian Ashcraft, author of the award winning Japanese Sake Bible.Brian talks about what led to his interest in Japan and sake, shares some behind-the-scenes info into the creation of his comprehensive guide to Japanese rice wine, and provides insight on things that all sake enthusiasts need to know. Kanpai!Brian's Book:https://www.amazon.com/Japanese-Sake-Bible-Everything-Tasting/dp/4805315059For more on the Japan Society of New Orleans:http://www.japansocietyofneworleans.org/

In this episode, the Krewe finally concludes their discussion on the greatest anime of all time. Doug, Jenn, and Nigel discuss the biggest anime of today, how streaming anime legally helped make anime cool, and what factors lead to creating an anime hit! Thank you so much for tuning in to this mini-series, and be on the lookout for a future manga series in season 2!For more on the Japan Society of New Orleans:http://www.japansocietyofneworleans.org

JET Program acceptance letters have gone out & short-listers are on the edge of their seats waiting to find out their placements. In this episode Nigel, Jennifer, & Doug talk about the months-long emotional roller coaster of preparing to relocate to a new country (for JET or any program). Departing JETAA Mid-South President Megan DeVille stops by to talk about her pre-departure JET experiences, from interviews to arriving at a tiny regional airport in Aomori Prefecture. She also talks about life after JET and how to keep Japan in your life despite returning to your home country.For more on JETAA Mid-South visit:https://jetaanola.weebly.com/For more on Japan Society of New Orleans visit:http://www.japansocietyofneworleans.org/

In this week's episode, the Krewe takes a trip down memory lane to reminisce about what many consider to be the “Golden Age” of Japanese animation, 1990-2010. Nigel, Jennifer, & Doug talk some prolific titles like Dragon Ball Z, Sailor Moon, Naruto, & One Piece, while paying respects to some non-mainstream (but popular) shows. Packed to the brim with loves, hates, and hot takes, they take you on a fun audio journey exploring shows they loved growing up and how the ingestion and perception of anime changed with the world around it.Be on the lookout for part 3 later this month!For more on the Japan Society of New Orleans:http://www.japansocietyofneworleans.org/

Enjoy studying Japanese and want to work in an industry where you can apply those skills? How do you even get into translation and localization? The Krewe has you covered.In this episode, Doug & Jenn chat with another Jenn: Jenn O’Donnell, a localization director in the game industry based out of Japan. Jenn shares her career path, some challenges she had to overcome, and how Twitter played an interesting role in her journey to becoming a video game localizer.Check out Jenn O'Donnell's work:J-en Translations: https://j-entranslations.com/blog Jenn's Twitter: https://twitter.com/JENTranslations

In this episode, Doug & Jenn take you on an audio journey through Japan's four seasons. From the top cultural events and natural phenomena that you have to see to believe, to the ideal weather and must try seasonal food and drinks, this episode if perfect for those reminiscing about their last trip and those planning their future one.Share with us your favorite time to visit Japan via email or social media!For more about the Japan Society of New Orleans: http://www.japansocietyofneworleans.org

In this week's shorter episode, a new contestant steps up to the Krewe's rapid fire question challenge, Bradley Trenery (guests from our "Teaching English in Japan: Eikaiwa & Private ALT" episode). Can he top the RFQ leaderboard? Tune in to find out!The second half of this episode continues our preview of a future episode focusing on the New Orleans/Japan music connections. In that preview, we pick up right where we left off last week with local music journalist William Archambeault. Be on the lookout for that full episode in the future!For more on the Japan Society of New Orleans, please visit:http://www.japansocietyofneworleans.org

In this bonus episode, MattvsJapan (featured on our learning Japanese through Immersion episode) steps up to bat in our rapid fire questions challenge.This episode also contains a preview of a forthcoming episode and series dedicated to exploring the connections between New Orleans. In the preview, Doug & Nigel sit down with local music journalist William Archambeault, and they begin to dive into the New Orleans-Japan music exchange. Be on the lookout for the full music connection episode and series soon! *Correction to episode: MattvsJapan's total number of questions answered was 8*

IRASSHAIMASE! Grab a milk tea and tuna-mayo onigiri and join Doug & Jennifer as they completely torture themselves talking about all the goodies you can get at Japanese convenience stores! Discover the role convenience stores play in daily life, konbini "must buys", phrases to help survive checking out, and most importantly, the best konbini chain to rule them all. If you weren't craving a melon soda and famichiki before, consider this an apology in advance. MATA OKOSHI KUDASAIMASE!This podcast is brought to you by the Japan Society of New Orleans:http://www.japansocietyofneworleans.org/

In this rapid fire questions challenge, best selling author and Japanese historian Tomoko Kitagawa competes for the top spot on the rapid fire leaderboard! Be sure to check out Tomoko's full episode "The Age of Lady Samurai" and her latest feature in the Netflix hit "Age of Samurai: Battle for Japan".Tomoko's website:https://www.tomokokitagawa.com/world.htmlJapan Society of New Orleans:http://www.japansocietyofneworleans.org/

In this episode, Doug & Jennifer unsheathe their verbal katanas as they talk about Netflix’s hit documentary Age of Samurai: Battle for Japan. Notably, the documentary introduced a cast of overlooked historical figures who played a prominent role in the Sengoku Period, the Lady Samurai.Tomoko Kitagawa, a Japanese historian and narrator featured in Age of Samurai, joins the Krewe to highlight the impact of these influential women, as well as share some stories of her journey from study abroad student to world-renown historian and best-selling author. This is an interview you won’t want to miss!Check out Tomoko's website:https://www.tomokokitagawa.com/world.htmlThis podcast is brought to you by the Japan Society of New Orleans:http://www.japansocietyofneworleans.org/

In this episode, the Krewe is neck deep in travel nostalgia! Doug, Jenn & Nigel talk about places that should be on every traveler's list. Later in the episode, Doug and Jenn sit down with Kay Allen, Deputy Manager for the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) Los Angeles Office. Kay provides fantastic insight into traveling Japan, some of her favorite destinations, and how the Olympics and CoVid-19 have reshaped the tourism industry in Japan.Japan National Tourism Office:https://www.japan.travel/en/us/This podcast is brought to you by the Japan Society of New Orleans:http://www.japansocietyofneworleans.org/

In this episode, the Krewe sits down for a discussion on Japanese language study, goal-setting and fluency. They are joined by MattVsJapan, a popular language study YouTuber who developed his own language learning methodology called Refold. Together, Matt and the Krewe discuss the concept of “fluency”, experiences in language learning, and overcoming obstacles that can typically impede progress.Check out Matt's amazing resource for learning languages Refold:https://refold.la/This podcast is brought to you by the Japan Society of New Orleans:http://www.japansocietyofneworleans.org

In this episode, Nigel and special JSNO guest host Matthew Smith (Professor of English at Tulane University) explore the life and legacy of Lafcadio Hearn, also known as Koizumi Yakumo. Hearn's interest in the occult took him all over the world, including the cities of New Orleans and Matsue. Later in the episode, Doug joins Nigel and Matt to interview Hearn's great-grandson Bon Koizumi and his wife Shoko, taking an in-depth look into Hearn's impact on the world, then and now.

Welcome to our new Rapid Fire Questions Challenge! In this mini-series, we sit down with the guests from our full length episodes, and challenge them to answer as many random rapid fire questions as they can in 2 minutes. Be sure to check out multi US National Sumo Champion and director of USA Sumo, Andrew Freund's full interview on our "Talking Sumo" episode!Want your question featured in a rapid fire challenge? Send it to us on social media or via email at [email protected]!

In this episode, Doug and Nigel sit down with multi US National Sumo champion and director of USA Sumo, Andrew Freund. In the interview, the Krewe and Andrew discuss the lifestyle and difference between amateur and pro sumo wrestlers, the origins of the US Sumo Open, Andrew's toughest competitors, and so much more! This is a supersized episode you don't want to miss! For more on USA Sumo visit their website: https://www.usasumo.com For more on the Japan Society of New Orleans visit: http://www.japansocietyofneworleans.org/

In this episode of Krewe of Japan, Doug and Jenn discuss teaching English in Japan through JET and non-JET opportunities. The episode transitions to an interview with Doug and two former JET participants, John Loynes (an Eikaiwa entrepreneur) and Bradley Trenery (a private school English instructor in Japan). Interested in pursing teaching English as a way to go to Japan, this episode is for you. From how they got into the JET program, what it's like day to day teaching English, to the best stories from teaching for 15+ years, this is an episode you don't want to miss!

On March 11, 2011, at 2:46 p.m., the largest earthquake ever recorded in Japan struck, soon triggering deadly tsunami and meltdown of a nuclear power plant in Fukushima. The event led to around $360 billion in damage, and even worse, the tragic loss of 15,899 lives.In this episode, the Krewe mark the 10 year anniversary since the devastating events which have come to be known as 3/11. Doug and Jenn sit down with the filmmakers of the 2014 film "Tohoku Tomo", a documentary which tells the story of true friendship and commitment to Japan’s recovery by the international community following the events of 3/11.Learn More about Tohoku Tomo: https://tohokutomo.com/Stream Tohoku Tomo: https://rb.gy/xnvyimLearn More about and Watch the 113 Project: http://www.113project.org/short-films Join the Japan Society of New Orleans: http://www.japansocietyofneworleans.org/

In this first part of a trilogy of episodes, the krewe dives into their picks for some of the most notable anime from the nostalgic era of anime (1960s - 1989). From anime you've probably never heard of, obscure trivia, and giants of the anime scene, this is an adventure you don't want to miss. Be on the lookout for part 2 in the near future!

In this episode, Doug and Jennifer dive into one of the largest barriers of diving deeper into Japan and its culture: the Japanese language. They discuss the basics of how the language works, how they began learning Japanese, and useful tools to aid you on your Japanese language journey. Halfway through the episode, Doug and Jennifer are joined by Saeko Yatsuka-Jensen, a Japanese professor at Tulane University, to discuss her tips and tricks for learning Japanese, overcoming the major hurdles, and staying motivated on your journey.

In this episode, the Krewe gathers to discuss the iconic Japanese media franchise, Pokémon! Celebrating its 25th anniversary this February, Pokémon is the highest grossing media franchise in the world! From its anime and games, to trading cards and mobile apps, Pokémon truly unites people from across the world. Tune in to this episode to hear the krewe discuss the history, major moments, and each krewe member's favorite Pokémon!

In this episode, Doug and Maddy sit down with Dr. Samantha Perez, to discuss the sister city relationship between Matsue, Japan and New Orleans, Louisiana. From notable figures and history, to unmissable sights and Matsue's Mardi Gras celebration, this is a laid back and informative conversation that you don't want to miss! For more about the Japan Society and the Tomodachi Exchange Program visit:http://www.japansocietyofneworleans.orghttp://usjapantomodachi.org Music credits for the episode:Music : Colorful Flowers by Tokyo Music Walker Stream & Download : https://fanlink.to/tmw_colorful_flowers​ Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0Music : Way Home by Tokyo Music Walker Stream & Download : https://fanlink.to/tmw_way_home​ Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0

This bonus episode is the unabridged interview with Matt Alt for the episode entitled "Why Japan?". In this virtual interview, Doug, Matt, and Nigel discuss in more detail Japan's pop culture rise and transformation, the video game revolution, anime & more. Thanks for tuning in, and be sure to subscribe and follow us on social media!Special thanks to Matt Alt!https://www.mattalt.com/Buy Matt's amazing book:https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/609076/pure-invention-by-matt-alt/ More about the Japan Society of New Orleans:http://www.japansocietyofneworleans.org

In this first episode of the Krewe of Japan Podcast, we introduce you to our hosts. In addition, special guest, Matt Alt, takes us on a deep dive into how Japan's culture and products became so influential in the United States. Check out Matt's website: https://www.mattalt.com/ Check out Matt's book: https://www.amazon.com/Pure-Invention-Japans-Culture-Conquered/dp/1984826697/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=pure+invention&qid=1612547227&sr=8-1This podcast is brought to you by the Japan Society of New Orleans (JSNO). For more information about the JSNO, visit the website: http://www.japansocietyofneworleans.org

For updates, behind the scenes, and full interviews with our podcast guests, check out our social media pages:https://www.instagram.com/kreweofjapanpodcast/https://twitter.com/KreweofJapan