Monica Stadkovic's journey from Poland to Japan might seem like a story of unexpected twists, but it's a testament to the transformative power of embracing new cultures. In this episode, we sit down with Monica, the dynamic community manager at Planet Labs, as she recounts her life-altering move to Japan as a teenager. With no initial interest in Japanese culture, Monica's path took an intriguing turn as she found her calling in teaching and eventually connected with Planet Labs through a serendipitous meeting with their founder, Tamaki Nishimura. Listen as Monica shares how these experiences shaped her role in promoting cultural preservation through innovative vacation rentals.

Japan's tourism landscape is a fascinating blend of modernity and tradition, yet there's often a disconnect between government initiatives and the authentic experiences sought by foreign visitors. Monica sheds light on this topic, sharing her insights into fostering genuine connections through a decentralized autonomous organization (DAO) structure at Planet Labs. This approach not only empowers investors to become co-owners but also aligns with the Japanese concept of 'ibasho'—creating spaces where individuals can truly be themselves. Monica's passion for community engagement and sustainable living shines through as she discusses projects like the renovation of a historic temple and the Bamboo Forest House in Hayama.

The conversation explores Monica's deep appreciation for Japanese culture, touching on the harmonious principles of wa and the unmatched hospitality of omotenashi. As Monica discusses her personal journey to understanding ikigai, we explore the balance between individualism and collective harmony, offering a fresh perspective on how these cultural values differ from those in Europe and Slavic regions. Finally, Monica shares the excitement of expanding Planet Labs' community projects, with a focus on building meaningful relationships and embracing the unique dynamics of new communities. Join us as we immerse ourselves in the spirit of collaboration and cultural preservation driving Monica's endeavors.

Are you passionate about historic properties?

Japan is home to a wealth of historical gems, many of which are in need of preservation.

In this blog post, Nick speaks with Tamaki Nishimura to discuss the importance of saving these iconic properties and transforming them into unique vacation rentals.

Unlock the secrets of living a meaningful life as we challenge popular misconceptions about Ikigai in a conversation led by AI co-hosts. Could it be that passion alone isn't the key to happiness? Journey through the complex dimensions of Ikigai as we revisit insights from the book "Ikigai Kan: Feel a Life Worth Living" and Japanese psychiatrist Miko Kamiya's seven psychological needs, from life satisfaction to self-development. We'll dismantle the Westernized Venn diagram interpretation and debunk the notion that Ikigai is solely an Okinawan treasure. It's time to understand how these elements contribute to a truly fulfilling life.

Our exploration doesn't stop at individual well-being; we also dive into the broader societal implications of Ikigai. Drawing from Nick Kemp's perspectives, we examine practices like Nikon, yutori, and shinrin-yoku that emphasize gratitude, relaxation, and connection with nature. Discover how cultural nuances and language can impact not just our personal Ikigai but also that of others. And as AI technology advances, we explore how it might offer new sources of meaning and purpose in our rapidly evolving world. Whether you're curious about the philosophical depths of Ikigai or its practical applications, this episode promises a transformative insight into living a balanced and purposeful life.