Ep. 29: ファミリービジネスでイノベーションを起こすゼブラ企業経営者 with 森若 幸次郎
Featuring guest
森若 幸次郎
We had the pleasure of hosting John Kojiro Moriwaka, an innovation provider bridging overseas markets with Japan. In this hour-long conversation, we explored his core philosophy of 'Innovations for a healthier life' and tackled crucial questions about Japan's economy and society. We delved deeply into how family businesses can drive innovation, examining the intersection of startups and traditional enterprises. Throughout our discussion, we covered key topics including how innovation begins locally, opportunities between startups and Japanese companies, global startup ecosystems, and the concept of zebra companies. We also explored creating innovation culture, Japan's role in innovation, and practical advice for international collaboration. This engaging conversation provided valuable insights into balancing tradition with innovation in Japanese business contexts.
Themes of Inquiry
- Innovation ecosystem
- Japan-overseas business bridge
- Family business innovation
- Startup-corporate collaboration
- Healthcare technology
We had the pleasure of hosting John Kojiro Moriwaka, an innovation provider bridging overseas markets with Japan.
Episode Summary
We had the pleasure of hosting John Kojiro Moriwaka, an innovation provider bridging overseas markets with Japan. In this hour-long conversation, we explored his core philosophy of 'Innovations for a healthier life' and tackled crucial questions about Japan's economy and society. We delved deeply into how family businesses can drive innovation, examining the intersection of startups and traditional enterprises. Throughout our discussion, we covered key topics including how innovation begins locally, opportunities between startups and Japanese companies, global startup ecosystems, and the concept of zebra companies. We also explored creating innovation culture, Japan's role in innovation, and practical advice for international collaboration. This engaging conversation provided valuable insights into balancing tradition with innovation in Japanese business contexts.
The Guest Biography
森若 幸次郎
John Kojiro Moriwaka is an innovation provider specializing in connecting overseas markets with Japan. He serves as CEO of Silicon Valley Ventures and Executive Managing Director of Moriwaka Corporation, a medical device innovation company founded in 1972. Moriwaka is a visiting professor at Information Management Innovation University and Myanmar Institute of Business, while also serving as a mentor for ten accelerators globally. He established Startup Grind Fukuoka in 2020 and regularly contributes columns to Forbes Japan, Resona Bank, and Dream Gate. His expertise spans digital transformation, global technology consulting, and supporting next-generation unicorns. He authored 'Why Harvard Elites Are Strong Under Pressure' and maintains diverse interests including rap music, painting, and social dancing.
Continue the Dialogue
Ep. 30: The story behind the Business Karaoke Podcast name with Brittany Arthur
In this episode, we explore the fascinating story behind our 'Business Karaoke' name and dive deep into the unexpected parallels between innovation and karaoke. We examine how karaoke boxes create psychological safety for Japanese teams in ways their traditional offices cannot, and what this teaches us about fostering innovation. We discuss essential principles including empathizing with stakeholders, showing rather than telling, embracing radical collaboration, and the importance of experimentation. We also explore how seeking quick wins builds momentum and why getting out of the building is crucial for true innovation. Through this unique lens, we uncover valuable insights about creating environments where teams can take risks and innovate freely.
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