Best Usj Podcasts (2025)

1
Spirituality in Everyday Japan ft. Hiroko Yoda 1:00:29

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3h ago1:00:29

1:00:29

Japan is often described as having “spirituality without religion”, but what does that actually mean? In this episode, author Hiroko Yoda joins the Krewe to break down how spirituality quietly shapes everyday life in Japan, from nature and kami to shrines, folklore, and even anime. With personal stories and insights from her new book, Eight Million…

1
Japanese Tea Ceremony: A Living Tradition ft. Atsuko Mori of Camellia Tea Ceremony 51:48

12d ago51:48

51:48

The Krewe is joined by Atsuko Mori of Camellia Tea Ceremony in Kyoto for a deep dive into the Japanese tea ceremony. Together, they explore the experience itself, the tools and etiquette involved, what guests can expect, and why preserving this centuries-old tradition still matters today. ------ About the Krewe ------ The Krewe of Japan Podcast is …

1
Japan's Craft Beer Boom ft. Chris Madere of Baird Brewing & Chris Poel of Shiokaze BrewLab 1:16:26

20d ago1:16:26

1:16:26

The Krewe sits down with Chris Madere (Baird Brewing) & Chris Poel (Shiokaze BrewLab) to explore Japan’s growing craft beer scene. They discuss how Japan’s drinking culture evolved beyond the big-name breweries, what daily life is like behind the brewhouse doors, the challenges small and foreign brewers face, and the innovations shaping the future …

1
Parenting in Japan: Tips, Challenges & Everyday Truths ft. Loretta Scott aka KemushiChan 1:08:00

1M ago1:08:00

1:08:00

This week, the Krewe is joined by Loretta Scott (aka KemushiChan on YouTube Channel) for a personal, insightful, and often funny look at what it’s like raising kids in Japan as an American parent. We dig into birth experiences, cultural differences from the U.S., unexpected parenting moments, and tips for families living in or visiting Japan. Curio…

1
Expanding Horizons: USJ’s Foreign Language and Study Abroad Experience 23:49

1M ago23:49

23:49

In this episode of Excellence Ed, we sit down with Jimmy Glosson, Upper School Foreign Language Chair and Middle/Upper School Dean of Faculty at the University School of Jackson, to discuss the power of learning a foreign language and the exciting opportunities that come with it. Jimmy shares how USJ’s comprehensive foreign language program prepare…

1
Crash Course in Japanese Politics ft. Tobias Harris of Japan Foresight 1:08:20

1M ago1:08:20

1:08:20

Japan’s political scene is changing—from new parties rising in visibility to historic moments in national leadership—so the Krewe is bringing you a timely crash course. Political analyst Tobias Harris (Founder & Principal of Japan Foresight) joins the pod to break down the foundations of Japan’s government system, how it compares to the U.S., and w…

1
It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Holiday Mart! 🎁 22:37

1M ago22:37

22:37

It’s the most wonderful time of the year at the University School of Jackson! In this episode of ExcellenceEd, we’re talking all about USJ’s Holiday Mart — a beloved community tradition that brings together vendors, holiday cheer, and the spirit of giving. Join us as we share what to expect at this year’s event, from the Preview Party and shopping …

1
Making Tokusatsu ft. Takeshi Yagi, Director of Ultraman Max 48:04

2M ago48:04

48:04

Step into the world of tokusatsu with Ultraman Max director Takeshi Yagi! The Krewe chats with Yagi-san about the artistry, imagination, and behind-the-scenes magic that bring Ultraman and Japan’s iconic heroes & monsters to life. Discover how tokusatsu continues to inspire fans around the world. ------ About the Krewe ------ The Krewe of Japan Pod…

1
30 Years, 2 Cities: The 2024 New Orleans-Matsue Exchange ft. Katherine Heller & Wade Trosclair 1:09:28

2M ago1:09:28

1:09:28

In this week's episode, joined by 2024 New Orleans-Matsue Sister City Exchange Program participants Katherine Heller & Wade Trosclair, the Krewe looks back & celebrates 30 years of friendship between Matsue, Japan & New Orleans, Louisiana... a sister city relationship built on cultural exchange, mutual curiosity, &shared spirit. Together, they refl…

1
From Tokyo to Treme: A Jazz Trombone Tale ft. Haruka Kikuchi 43:34

2M ago43:34

43:34

The Krewe sits down with Haruka Kikuchi, a Japanese jazz trombonist making waves in New Orleans. From discovering jazz in Japan to second-lining through the Crescent City, Haruka shares her story of finding home through music — and how jazz bridges cultures across oceans. ------ About the Krewe ------ The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly episodic…

1
🎙️ Balancing Act: Students Who Do It All 25:14

2M ago25:14

25:14

In this episode of ExcellenceEd, we sit down with two outstanding University School of Jackson students who know a thing or two about managing busy schedules and staying focused on what matters most. 🎭⚾🏀 Noah Martin, an active member of our theater program, and Haylen Ayers, a dual-sport athlete in softball and basketball, share how they balance ac…

1
Akiya: Japan's Empty Homes ft. Anton Wormann 1:03:19

3M ago1:03:19

1:03:19

DIY Enthusiast & the man behind "Anton in Japan" YouTube Channel, Anton Wörmann joins the Krewe to talk about akiya, Japan's abandoned home phenomenon, and how he’s transforming them into stunning spaces. We dig into what it’s like to buy, clear out, & renovate an akiya and how Anton’s journey from fashion to DIY restoration is reshaping what “home…

1
The “Why” Behind the Game: A Conversation with Derrick Pritchard 21:14

3M ago21:14

21:14

In this episode of ExcellenceEd: The Podcast, USJ Athletic Director Derrick Pritchard reminds athletes, parents, and fans to keep the “why” at the heart of sports. He shares how remembering the bigger purpose—growth, teamwork, and character—shapes a healthier athletic culture. Derrick also speaks directly to parents, offering guidance on how they c…

1
📚 Meet the Librarians: Inspiring Readers at Every Age 📚 28:29

3M ago28:29

28:29

In this episode of ExcellenceEd: The Podcast, we sit down with Mrs. Rachel Vivio, Upper School Librarian, and Mrs. Regina Sills, Lower School Librarian, to hear their stories of what inspired them to become librarians and the unique ways they’ve shaped their spaces at USJ. From contests, puzzles, and games in the Upper School to age-appropriate pro…

1
📣✨ SGA in Action: Welcoming Students, Leading Events & More 20:37

4M ago20:37

20:37

In this episode, SGA students share what it takes to be part of Student Government at USJ. From welcoming new students at Orientation to planning Homecoming and making sure events run smoothly, they give an inside look at how student leaders help shape campus life. We’ll also dive into how SGA connects students with opportunities to get involved in…

1
📘 Middle School Matters: Attendance, Punctuality & Uniforms 34:37

4M ago34:37

34:37

In this episode of ExcellenceEd: The Podcast, Middle School Head Margaret Livingston walks us through the key points of the Middle School Handbook. From why it’s essential to show up to school every day, to the importance of being on time, and the role uniforms play in building a sense of community—Mrs. Livingston explains how these daily habits se…

1
Phones Down, Focus Up: USJ’s New Cellphone Policy 11:14

4M ago11:14

11:14

In this episode of ExcellenceEd: The Podcast, meet Dr. Shane Jacobs, USJ’s new Upper School Head, as he discusses the recent implementation of our cellphone policy. Dr. Jacobs shares the reasoning behind this important change, outlines what’s expected from students, and explains the positive impact it’s already having on classroom focus, student en…

1
🌟 Paying for College, Part 2: Scholarships, Service, and Smart Strategies 25:00

5M ago25:00

25:00

In this follow-up episode of ExcellenceEd: The Podcast, USJ college advisors dive deeper into ways students can strengthen applications and maximize financial aid. We explore how meaningful volunteer service can set applicants apart—and how to align those experiences with student interests for greater impact. You’ll also learn about applying for th…

1
💰 Paying for College, Part 1: What You Need to Know 13:33

5M ago13:33

13:33

In this episode of ExcellenceEd: The Podcast, USJ college advisors break down the essentials of paying for college—without the overwhelm. From understanding the FAFSA and using net price calculators to setting a target ACT score, finding scholarships, and staying on top of application deadlines, you’ll get practical tips to make the process managea…

1
College Advising 101 31:57

5M ago31:57

31:57

USJ college advisors Shannon Whisenant and Carol Ryan break down what students and families need to know about preparing for college—starting as early as freshman year. They walk through the college timeline, the importance of building a balanced college list, how to approach standardized testing, and when to start test prep. They also cover key to…

1
Middle School 101: Orientation Week & Beyond 22:41

5M ago22:41

22:41

🎉 Welcome to the very first episode of ExcellenceEd: The Podcast! We’re kicking things off with Margaret Livingston, Head of Middle School at USJ, as she shares what makes the middle school experience unique and how students can thrive during this exciting transition. In this episode, Mrs. Livingston walks us through the shift from Lower to Middle …

1
Season 6 Midseason Update 4:59

5M ago4:59

4:59

A quick update from the Krewe on a short release break & things to come! Big things poppin' with the Krewe!! ------ About the Krewe ------ 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, Stitcher, or wherev…

1
Social Media & Perceptions of Japan 48:54

6M ago48:54

48:54

Jenn and Doug dive into how social media shapes global perceptions of Japan—both the good and the misleading. From viral content to common myths, they explore what’s real, what’s exaggerated, and why it matters. ------ About the Krewe ------ The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly episodic podcast sponsored by the Japan Society of New Orleans. Check…

1
Shochu 101 ft. Christopher Pellegrini 57:21

6M ago57:21

57:21

Think you know Japanese alcohol? Think again. In this episode, the Krewe dives into shochu — Japan’s most beloved distilled spirit that somehow still flies under the radar outside the country. We sit down with Christopher Pellegrini, founder of Honkaku Spirits and one of the world’s leading voices on shochu, to break it all down. Whether you're new…

1
Being Vegan in Japan ft. Leonore of itadakihealthy 59:43

6M ago59:43

59:43

Thinking of going vegan in Japan? This week, the Krewe chats with Leonore of itadakihealthy about navigating the unique challenges of being vegan in Japan. From hidden ingredients and dining tips to nutrition and travel advice, Leonore shares practical insights for plant-based living in & traveling to the Land of the Rising Sun. ------ About the Kr…

1
Japanese Soccer on the World Stage ft. Dan Orlowitz 42:35

6M ago42:35

42:35

In Part 2 of our Japanese soccer series, journalist Dan Orlowitz returns to help us explore how Japan’s soccer scene is making waves across the globe! We dive into Samurai Blue’s international success, Japanese players shining abroad, and the flow of global talent into the J.League. Plus — how can fans outside Japan actually watch the matches? We’v…

1
Meet the J.League ft. Dan Orlowitz 59:37

7M ago59:37

59:37

The Krewe is kicking off a 2-part series on Japanese soccer! In Part 1, journalist Dan Orlowitz joins the Krewe to break down Japan’s domestic soccer scene — the J.League. From league structure and top teams to standout players making waves right now, this episode is your perfect deep dive into the beautiful game, Japan-style. Whether you're new to…

1
Inside Japanese Language Schools ft. Langston Hill 54:42

7M ago54:42

54:42

Ever wondered what it’s like to study Japanese in Japan? This week, the Krewe sits down with Langston Hill — administrator at a Tokyo-based language school and Japanese language content creator — to dive into opportunities to learn in Japan via dedicated Japanese language schools. We explore the benefits of language schools, how they compare to tra…

1
Expo 2025: Japan on the World Stage ft. Sachiko Yoshimura 48:14

7M ago48:14

48:14

The Krewe gets an exclusive inside look at Expo 2025 Osaka with Sachiko Yoshimura, the Director General of Public Relations & Promotion! We dive into the massive planning behind the event, Japan’s rich history with World Expos, what to expect at the event, best times to travel, & of course... the story behind the viral mascot, Myaku-Myaku! A must-l…

1
Rakugo: Comedy on a Cushion ft. Katsura Sunshine 59:10

7M ago59:10

59:10

Season 6 kicks off with laughter, tradition, and international flair! The Krewe sits down with Katsura Sunshine, a Canadian-born rakugo performer bringing Japan’s 400-year-old comedic storytelling art to audiences around the world. In this episode, we explore what makes rakugo so unique, how Sunshine became one of the few non-Japanese rakugo-ka, an…

1
Season 6 超超超大盛 GIGAMAX Preview 15:28

8M ago15:28

15:28

LET THEM COOK! Over the last 5 months, the Krewe has been hard at work cooking up a massive Season 6 line-up. While the main course will begin being served on May 16, how about an appetizer? Just like the carb-loaded instant yakisoba, this preview is CHOU CHOU CHOU Gigamax packed with sneak peeks at what's to come in Season 6. Some snippets include…

1
Lafcadio Hearn: 2024 King of Carnival (A Mardi Gras Super-Sized Special) 1:12:20

12M ago1:12:20

1:12:20

2024 was a special year for Carnival and the Japan-New Orleans connection! Lafcadio Hearn's life & works inspired the theme for Rex Parade 2024: "The Two Worlds of Lafcadio Hearn - New Orleans & Japan". But why Hearn? What went into the float design? What other ways has Hearn left a lasting impact on both New Orleans & Japan? Find out today with a …

1
Season 5 Recap ft. SURPRISE GUEST 1:13:18

1y ago1:13:18

1:13:18

This season was a long one! The Krewe re-groups to reflect on Season 5 as a whole, and everything that went into it... with a SPECIAL GUEST! Join us for one last audio journey in Season 5 as we discuss all the milestones, top moments, challenges, & fun anecdotes, in addition to a look ahead to Season 6 & listener feedback! Let's GO! ------ About th…

1
The Castles of Japan ft. William de Lange 1:03:52

1y ago1:03:52

1:03:52

How many original castles does Japan ACTUALLY have standing? Where is Japan's oldest castle located? When counting castles in Japan, do castle ruins factor in? The Krewe is joined by William de Lange, the author of An Encyclopedia of Japanese Castles & many other Japan-related publications, to get the answer to these questions and so many more! ---…

1
Enjoying Shojo Anime & Manga ft. Taryn of Manga Lela 51:09

1y ago51:09

51:09

This one goes out to all the ladies out there... well, and the fellas too if you're interested! The Krewe sits down with avid shojo enthusiast Taryn of Manga Lela Instagram/TikTok fame to talk all things shojo. Together they explore the variety of shojo genres, some challenges faced in the shojo industry, & what makes shojo different from those ram…

1
Foreign-Born Samurai: William Adams ft. Nathan Ledbetter (Guest Host, Dr. Samantha Perez) 1:00:57

1+ y ago1:00:57

1:00:57

Historians Nathan Ledbetter & Dr. Samantha Perez rejoin the Krewe to continue our conversation on foreign-born samurai, this time highlighting the life of William Adams! In this episode, we explore his relationships with both Japanese & non-Japanese while in Japan, the similarities between William Adams's story & House of the Dragon (what?!), how h…

1
Foreign-Born Samurai: Yasuke ft. Nathan Ledbetter (Guest Host, Dr. Samantha Perez) 1:03:32

1+ y ago1:03:32

1:03:32

Joined by guest host Dr. Samantha Perez, the Krewe sits down with Princeton's Nathan Ledbetter to unpack how the term "samurai" evolved over the centuries and dig into foreign-born samurai, specifically Yasuke. Uncover everything they you need to know about the African samurai right here in this episode... AND SO MUCH MORE! ------ About the Krewe -…

1
Change in Urban & Rural Japanese Communities ft. Azby Brown 46:46

1+ y ago46:46

46:46

What's your Japan version of "Ain't Dere No More"? Between changes within the megalopolis of Tokyo to the struggles of keeping countryside communities alive & thriving, Azby Brown returns to the podcast to discuss urban migration, depopulation, revitalization projects, centuries-old feuds raging on today... AND SO MUCH MORE! ------ About the Krewe …

1
Hanging Out In Hyogo ft. Rob Dyer of The Real Japan 58:19

1+ y ago58:19

58:19

Joined by friend of the podcast and travel expert Rob Dyer of The Real Japan, the Krewe explores Hyogo Prefecture and everything it has to offer! From popular spots to secret gems, Rob reveals his insight into place he calls his second home, foods that are must eat, and things that are must do! Hell yes to zip lining into Godzilla's mouth! Don't mi…

1
The Thunderous Sounds of Taiko ft. Takumi Kato (加藤拓三), World Champion Taiko Drummer 26:48

1+ y ago26:48

26:48

Grab your bachi and join the Krewe as they sit down with Takumi Kato (加藤拓三), world champion taiko drummer, to explore the sounds of taiko, his personal experiences and approaches to taiko, & his current adventure across the United States performing 1,000 times in all 50 states. ------ About the Krewe ------ The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly e…

1
Yakuza: Past, Present, Future ft. Jake Adelstein, Author of Tokyo Vice 48:32

1+ y ago48:32

48:32

The Krewe is joined by journalist & author of Tokyo Vice, Jake Adelstein, to dive into the yakuza. How did these organizations gain prominence in Japanese society, and how have the police & government responded over time to their presence? What behind-the-scenes decisions went into the TV adaptation of Jake's thrilling memoir? Find out all this and…

1
The Japanese Space Program ft. Dr. Kate Kitagawa of JAXA 58:45

1+ y ago58:45

58:45

Prepare for lift off as the Krewe sits down with returning guest Dr. Kate Kitagawa of JAXA to look deep into the past, present, and future of Japan's space program! From pencil rockets & SLIM landers to international collaborative efforts, discover Japan's role in exploring the far reaches of outer space. ------ About the Krewe ------ The Krewe of …

1
The Japanese Pop Music Scene ft. Patrick St. Michel 58:27

1+ y ago58:27

58:27

The Krewe is joined by Patrick St. Michel, Japan-based writer for the Japan Times and author of Make Believe Melodies blog. Patrick shares his passion and expertise on all things J-Pop, what's popular now, where to find it, and so much more! Are you a life-long fan of Japanese pop music? Or maybe you are looking for ways to discover more about J-Po…

1
MEXT Scholarship Programs: Tips & Testimonials ft. Tye Ebel & William Archambeault 58:47

1+ y ago58:47

58:47

The MEXT Scholarship deadline is quickly approaching (May 24, 2024 for the Nashville Consulate). But what is a MEXT Scholarship Program? The Krewe is digging into this today. We sit down with returning guest Tye Ebel, JET/MEXT Coordinator for the Consulate-General of Japan in Nashville, & a current MEXT research scholar, William Archambeault. Throu…

1
Launching Louisiana's Only High School Japanese Program ft. Dr. Tara Sanchez 53:39

1+ y ago53:39

53:39

Japanese language programs in a non-university setting are a rarity in Louisiana, but fortunately for some students in the Greater New Orleans area, one school has them covered! The Krewe sits down with Dr. Tara Sanchez to discuss how she established a Japanese language program at Chalmette High School and how that program is providing opportunitie…

1
The Real World of Geisha ft. Peter Macintosh 55:13

1+ y ago55:13

55:13

Kyoto-based geisha culture guru Peter Macintosh joins the Krewe to take a look at geisha culture, reality vs. perception, how societal changes impact the geisha scene today & much more. If you are a fan of traditional Japanese culture, this episode is for you! ------ About the Krewe ------ The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly episodic podcast spo…

1
Inside Japanese Homes & Architecture ft. Azby Brown 53:18

1+ y ago53:18

53:18

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a Japanese home? Is it the scent of tatami mats? Shoji-style sliding doors? What are other major components and influences that go into making the Japanese home, be it traditional or modern, as well as Japanese Architecture as a whole? With special guest Azby Brown, the Krewe is going to d…

1
Checking Out Miyagi ft. Ryotaro Sakurai (Guest Host, William Woods) 1:15:31

1+ y ago1:15:31

1:15:31

Joined by travel expert, owner of Lifebridge Inc., & popular YouTuber Ryotaro Sakurai and fellow New Orleanian William Woods, the Krewe explores Miyagi Prefecture and everything it has to offer! From popular spots to secret gems, Ryotaro & Will share their insight into place that are must see, foods that are must eat, and things that are must do! D…

1
Japanese Self-Study Strategies ft. Walden Perry 1:03:31

1+ y ago1:03:31

1:03:31

Ever wanted to learn Japanese and just not know where to start? The Krewe sits down with Walden Perry, a Louisiana native who prior to 2020 had zero Japanese language experience. What started as a personal challenge during the pandemic became a multi-year self-study language learning adventure. And as with all adventures, there are ups and downs. T…

1
Akira Toriyama: Legacy of a Legend ft. Matt Alt 1:00:21

2y ago1:00:21

1:00:21

On March 1st, the world lost a pop culture legend, Akira Toriyama. In today's episode, friend-of-the-podcast Matt Alt re-joins the Krewe to look a back at the legacy that Toriyama left behind and his impact on pop culture in Japan and around the world. You won't want to miss this one! ------ About the Krewe ------ The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a we…