Jandals in Japan® Latest Episodes

Jandals in Japan has welcome some wonderful guests in April and May, 2026.

Episode 74: Staying When It Gets Tough: How Glen Argyle Earned Trust and Built a Sustainable Business in Japan’s Pharmaceutical Industry

Glen Argyle left Invercargill for what he thought would be a two or three-year teaching stint in Osaka.

Twenty-eight years later, he is currently the CEO of Baxter Japan, one of the world's leading pharmaceutical and medical device companies. His journey from JET program teacher to pharmaceutical industry leader is a masterclass in cultural adaptation, patience, and authentic leadership. Whether you're considering a move to Japan, leading a team here, or exploring business opportunities, Glen's wisdom will resonate deeply.

Episode 75: The Kiwi Brothers Origin Story: Transforming Zespri Marketing in Japan with Kanako Inomata

Kanako Inomata is the Head of Marketing APAC for Zespri International, one of the world's most recognised fresh produce brands. Working remotely from her hometown in Aizu, Fukushima, she leads marketing strategy across Japan, Korea, Singapore, Australia, Vietnam, and beyond.

Kanako reveals the fascinating story behind the Kiwi Brothers characters, which have become so iconic in Japan that they've been rolled out globally across Europe, the Americas, and even back to New Zealand. Whether you're interested in brand building, cross-cultural marketing, or living a purpose-driven career, Kanako's wisdom will resonate.

Episode 76: Peri Drysdale Shares Untouched World’s Japan Market Entry Story

Peri Drysdale is Founder of the internationally renowned sustainable fashion brand Untouched World. From growing up on a sheep farm in the Rakaia Gorge to becoming a registered nurse, and then launching a global wool business with just $200 in the bank, Peri's journey is nothing short of remarkable. Discover how she broke into Japan's notoriously difficult department store market, the power of persistence, and why being a foreign woman in Japanese business turned from a double negative into a surprising advantage.