Direct Talk - Episode List

Episode Guide

Season 2025

Number#

Date

Name

Score

Status

Aug 13, 2025

Halting Desertification with Waste: Oyama Shuichi / Professor, Research Institute for Humanity and Nature / Kyoto University Graduate School

Aug 6, 2025

Wastewater Research for Public Health: Kitajima Masaaki / Project Professor, Research Center for Water Environment Technology, The University of Tokyo

Jul 30, 2025

Music Beyond Genres: Sumino Hayato / Pianist

Jul 23, 2025

Adapting Anime Costumes for Live-Action: Nakahara Sachiko / Stylist and Costume Designer

Jul 16, 2025

Japanese Ballet's Global Challenge: Yoshida Miyako / Artistic Director

Jul 9, 2025

Breaking the Bonsai Mold: Kimura Masahiko / Bonsai Artist

Jul 2, 2025

Turning Ghana's E-Waste into Treasures: Nagasaka Mago / Artist

Jun 25, 2025

Observing is Living: Soda Kazuhiro / Filmmaker

Jun 18, 2025

Capturing Movement and Sense of Touch: Mizushiri Yoriko / Animation Artist

Jun 11, 2025

Illuminating the World with Hanabi: Saito Kentaro / Pyrotechnician

Jun 4, 2025

A Suitcase that Leads the Way: Asakawa Chieko / Computer Scientist

May 28, 2025

The Heart of the Sutra Remixed: Akasaka Yogetsu / Meditation Music Artist, Zen Buddhist Priest

May 7, 2025

Connecting the Past and Future: Sekiguchi Itaru / Organ Builder

Apr 30, 2025

Music That Nourishes the Soul: Yoshida Hirofumi / Conductor

Apr 23, 2025

Picture Books for Children and Adults Alike: Miyakoshi Akiko / Picture Book Author

Apr 16, 2025

Training Dogs to Save Lives Around the World: Murase Hidehiro / IRO Representative of Asia

Mar 28, 2025

Cracking the Complexity of Long COVID: Akiko Iwasaki / Professor of Immunobiology, Yale University

Mar 28, 2025

Tech to Predict Crime: Kajita Mami / Founder & CEO of Singular Perturbations

Mar 28, 2025

Journalism for Humanity: Lesley Blume / Journalist and Author

Mar 27, 2025

Fight for Me, Fight for All Women: Clarisse Agbegnenou / Judoka

Mar 27, 2025

Sculpting Hope Beyond Centuries: Sotoo Etsuro / Sculptor of the Sagrada Familia

Mar 27, 2025

Bamboo for Revitalization: Singgih Susilo Kartono / Founder and Designer, Spedagi

Mar 26, 2025

Shaping the Future of Coffee With Direct Trade: Goto Masashi / CEO of TYPICA

Mar 26, 2025

Being Bicultural in Hollywood: Miyagawa Eriko / Film & TV Producer

Mar 25, 2025

Tradition and Innovation in Sake Brewing: Noguchi Naohiko / Sake Master Brewer

Mar 24, 2025

A Home That Transcends Language and Identity: Afuso Michie / President, ABC Japan

Mar 21, 2025

Overcoming Infertility Together: Yamauchi Anna / Founder and CEO, Reproductive Health Consultation

Mar 21, 2025

Reclaiming Opera With New Perspectives: Matthew Ozawa / Stage Director

Mar 20, 2025

Various Circumstances: Mayunkiki / Artist

Mar 19, 2025

Meaning of Memory: Cannon Hersey / Artist, Community Builder

Mar 18, 2025

Helping Para-Athletes Fulfill Their Dreams: Nakajima Hiromitsu / Engineer

Mar 17, 2025

New Life for the Samurai Genre: Yasuda Junichi / Film Director, Rice Farmer

Mar 14, 2025

Unearthing Hidden Treasure in Kyrgyzstan's Farming Villages: Haraguchi Akihisa / JICA Chief Advisor

Mar 13, 2025

A Genocide Survivor Confronts Memories: Rithy Panh / Film Director

Mar 12, 2025

Reconnecting Hikikomori to Society: Tadaaki Furuhashi / Psychiatrist, Associate Professor, Nagoya University

Mar 11, 2025

The Beauty and Art of Watchmaking: Makihara Daizoh / Watchmaker

Mar 10, 2025

Mitigating Disasters Saves Lives: Tomita Hiroshi / Founder, Chairman and Representative Director, Geo Search

Mar 7, 2025

Your Smile Is My Smile: Shigeaki Aso / Baseball Glove Master Craftsman

Mar 6, 2025

Transforming Education - The Challenge To Leave No One Behind: Aoki Kenta / Executive Director of the Certified NPO SALASUSU

Mar 5, 2025

Telling Stories of Hope and Resilience: Julian Sedgwick / Author

Mar 4, 2025

Listening to the Voices of the Wounded: Ishiuchi Miyako / Photographer

Mar 3, 2025

Traditional Soy Sauce for the World: Yamamoto Yasuo / Fifth-Generation Soy Sauce Producer

Feb 28, 2025

Manga Education Goes to College: Kofi Bazzell-Smith / College Instructor, Manga Artist

Feb 27, 2025

A Fairer World Through Microfinance: Taejun Shin / Founder and CEO, Gojo & Company

Feb 26, 2025

Shaping Our Culinary Future: René Redzepi / Chef and Co-Owner, Noma

Feb 25, 2025

Drawing Wartime in the Attic: Chiba Tetsuya / Manga Artist

Feb 24, 2025

Making Documentaries Like Dramatic Movies: Hara Kazuo / Film Director

Feb 21, 2025

Women Leading Sumatra's Forest Protection: Farwiza Farhan / Forest Conservationist Executive Director of HAkA (Forest, Nature, and Environment Aceh Foundation)

Feb 17, 2025

Spreading the Joy of Music to All: Erika Colon / Artistic Director, White Hands Chorus Nippon

Feb 14, 2025

Kabuki - Passion for Tradition and Innovation: Nakamura Kazutaro / Kabuki Actor

Feb 13, 2025

Revealing Myanmar's Unseen Reality: Bo Kyi / Co-Founder and Joint Secretary, Assistance Association

Feb 11, 2025

Cultivating Myanmar's Future Through Agriculture: Imoto Katsuyuki / Vice-Chairman, Greater Mekong Center

Feb 10, 2025

Face the Mountains, Face Yourself: Watanabe Naoko / Mountaineer, Nurse

Feb 6, 2025

Walking for Peace: Satish Kumar / Activist

Feb 5, 2025

Journalism for Justice: Ian Yee / Journalist, Co-Founder of The Fourth

Feb 4, 2025

Impassioned Ceramics: Muta Yoca / Artist, Ceramicist

Feb 3, 2025

Creating Never-Before-Seen Landscapes: Ishigami Junya / Architect

Jan 27, 2025

Marvelous Marmalade from Japan: Enami Noriyuki / Citrus Farmer, Marmalade Artisan

Jan 23, 2025

Preserving Memories Through Fiction: Julie Otsuka / Novelist

Season 2024

Number#

Date

Name

Score

Status

104

Dec 30, 2024

Never Give Up on Nuclear Abolition: Mimaki Toshiyuki / Co-Chair, Nihon Hidankyo

103

Dec 25, 2024

Communicating the Power of Taiko: Miyuki Williams / Taiko Drummer, Mugenkyo

102

Dec 23, 2024

Changing the World Through Words: Wago Ryoichi / Poet

101

Dec 20, 2024

Finding a Voice for Japanese Literature: Sam Bett / Japanese-to-English Translator

100

Dec 19, 2024

Modern Puppetry With a Magic Spirit: Basil Twist / Puppeteer

Dec 16, 2024

Unlocking the Full Potential of Athletes: Yanagawa Yoshimaro / Coach, Ikuei University Wrestling Team

Dec 13, 2024

The Lasting Impact of Agent Orange: Nguyen Thi Ngoc Phuong / Doctor

Dec 12, 2024

Preserving Biodiversity With Botanical Art: Yamanaka Masumi / Botanical Artist

Dec 6, 2024

The Power of Persistence: Katalin Karikó / Nobel Prize-Winning Scientist

Nov 29, 2024

Renaissance Through Animations: Emmanuel Gérard / Director, la Cité de la tapisserie

Nov 27, 2024

Reimagining Japan's Action Heroes: John Aoshima / Animation Director

Nov 21, 2024

Theater Lights Up the World: Jean Bellorini / Theater Director

Nov 18, 2024

Lighting the Way with Architecture: Nagayama Yuko / Architect

Nov 15, 2024

Keeping Our Rivers Plastic Free: Gary Bencheghib / Environmental Activist, Founder of Sungai Watch

Nov 12, 2024

Breaking the Poverty Cycle Through Education: Enomoto Megumi / CEO, Bridge for Lives in Mozambique

Nov 11, 2024

Technology for Safer Childbirth: Ogata Yuko / Social Entrepreneur

Nov 5, 2024

Finding Beauty in Rusting Iron: Hongo Shinya / Artist Blacksmith

Nov 4, 2024

Dinosaurs Going Digital: Kawabe Soichiro / Paleontologist/Associate Professor, Institute of Dinosaur

Oct 31, 2024

Reimagining Traditional Cuisine: Peter Cuong Franklin / Chef/Founder, Anan Saigon

Oct 31, 2024

Raising the Asian American Voice: Jo-Ann Yoo / Community Activist

Oct 29, 2024

Landmines Become Seeds of Peace: Heng Ratana / Director General of CMAC

Oct 27, 2024

Exploring Humanity Through the Lens of Ancient Rome: Yamazaki Mari / Manga Artist, Writer, and Paint

Oct 21, 2024

Shedding Light on the Global Water Cycle: Oki Taikan / Professor, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo

Oct 14, 2024

Preventing Blindness Around the World: Shimizu Eisuke / Ophthalmologist

Oct 13, 2024

A New Line of Defense Against Sexual Violence: Sakurai Masayoshi / CEO, Gawain

Oct 6, 2024

Reducing Poverty with Banana Paper: Ekberg Satoko / Social Entrepreneur

Oct 3, 2024

Empowering Exiled Artists: Judith Depaule / Author, Co-Founder of Agency of Artists in Exile

Sep 29, 2024

Land-Based Aquaculture for Food Security: Yamamoto Toshimasa / Associate Professor, Okayama Universi

Sep 26, 2024

Saving "Cinderella Species" From Extinction: Gerardo Garcia / Wildlife Conservationist

Sep 12, 2024

To Save Every Infant: Lee Jong-Rak / Pastor

Sep 11, 2024

Saving the "Mother River": Niwat Roykaew / Chairperson, Chiang Khong Conservation Group

Sep 8, 2024

Changing the World with Disabled Artists: Matsuda Takaya / Entrepreneur/Co-CEO, HERALBONY

Sep 2, 2024

Highlighting the Lives of Individuals: Kim Insook / Artist

Sep 1, 2024

Dancing into the Future: Kanamori Jo / Dancer, Choreographer

Aug 29, 2024

Saving Cambodia's Traditional Arts: Lomorpich Rithy / Festival Director of BonnPhum

Aug 28, 2024

Building for Eternity: Thomas Rau / Architect and Founder of RAU Architects

Aug 15, 2024

For the Homeland - A Producer's Voice in Canada: Anna Palenchuk / Ukrainian Film Producer

Aug 12, 2024

The Fine Line Between Strength and Fragility: Gonoi Rina / Former Ground Self-Defense Force Member

Aug 11, 2024

Treating Childhood Cancer in Vietnam: Watanabe Kazuyo / CEO, Asian Children's Care League

Aug 8, 2024

Giving Trees a Second Life: Mira Nakashima / Furniture Designer

Aug 5, 2024

Innovating Indigo - The New Japan Blue: Kaji Kakuo / Indigo Farmer and Dyer

Aug 4, 2024

Living Side by Side: Yamamoto Riken / Architect

Jul 30, 2024

Saving Lives with Toilets: Ishikawa Junya / CEO, Tasukeai Japan

Jul 28, 2024

Deciphering the Language of Birds: Suzuki Toshitaka / Animal Linguist/Associate Professor, Research

Jul 25, 2024

Building Bridges Towards Inclusion: Elton Ilirjani / CEO, The HeadHunter Group

Jul 21, 2024

Working to Heal Invisible Wounds: Kuwayama Norihiko / Psychiatrist/CEO, Frontline

Jul 1, 2024

Paintings for Peace in Gaza: Kamijo Yoko / Artist

Jun 27, 2024

Fighting to Make Sumo More Accessible: Steve Pateman / President, British Sumo Federation

Jun 26, 2024

Empowering Africa's Youth Leaders: Fred Swaniker / Founder, African Leadership Group

Jun 25, 2024

Learning From Human Library: Ronni Abergel / Founder of Human Library

Jun 16, 2024

Saving as Many Lives as Possible: Inaba Mototaka / Medical Doctor, Project Leader of ARROWS

Jun 9, 2024

Helping Ukrainian Evacuees Learn Japanese: Maksym Haichenko / Monoxer Employee

Jun 6, 2024

Reinventing Taiwanese Papercraft: Zhang Xu Zhan / Artist

Jun 3, 2024

Making Rehabilitation Programs More Engaging: Oka Yuki / CEO, Ubdobe

Jun 2, 2024

A Helping Hand for the World: Takahara Miki / Deputy Nursing Director, Japanese Red Cross Himeji Hos

May 30, 2024

Tourism Brightens the Future: Paras Loomba / Founder of Global Himalayan Expedition

May 1, 2024

War and the Power of Music: Paul Chihara / Composer

Apr 29, 2024

Supporting African Women with Surimi: Shiraishi Yuriko / Representative, Uminokuni Japan

Apr 28, 2024

Community Recovery Through Furniture: Ashizawa Keiji / Architect

Apr 21, 2024

Bringing Smiles to Children in Need: Omune Kosuke / Clown

Apr 15, 2024

Apps for Ukrainian Child Refugees: Anastasiia Demchenko / Co-founder of YCO SVIT

Apr 11, 2024

Giving People Back Their Dignity on the Net: Anna-Lena von Hodenberg / Social Entrepreneur

Mar 29, 2024

Reflecting the Autistic Experience on Stage: Ava Xiao-Lin Rigelhaupt / Autistic Creative Consultant,

Mar 28, 2024

For the "Stolen Children" of East Timor: Galuh Wandita / Co-Founder and Director, Asia Justice and R

Mar 27, 2024

Hydrogen to Change Society: Eniya Listiani Dewi / Fuel Cell Research Professor

Mar 26, 2024

Bridging Rohingya Through Digital: Muhammad Noor / Founder of the Rohingya Project

Mar 26, 2024

Fighting Drought with Fruit Peels: Narayan Lal Gurjar / Founder and CEO, EF Polymer

Mar 25, 2024

Theater That Transcends Boundaries Part 2: Noda Hideki / Playwright, Theater Director, and Actor

Mar 24, 2024

Theater That Transcends Boundaries Part 1: Noda Hideki / Playwright, Theater Director, and Actor

Mar 21, 2024

Adaptive Fashion for Everyone: Kadri Keung / Fashion Designer

Mar 20, 2024

Reviving Food Biodiversity: Helianti Hilman / Founder, Javara Indigenous Indonesia

Mar 19, 2024

Revealing the True Horrors of the Atomic Bomb: Leslie Sussan / Anti-Nuclear Activist

Mar 18, 2024

Empowering People with Disabilities in Laos: Ishihara Yurina / CEO, Support for Woman's Happiness

Mar 17, 2024

Better Healthcare, All Across Asia: Omura Kazuhiro / Assistant Professor, Otorhinolaryngology Department, The Jikei University School of Medicine

Mar 14, 2024

Building a Transformative Museum for Asian Art: Yasufumi Nakamori / Director, Asia Society Museum

Mar 13, 2024

Guardian of the Forest: Emmanuela Shinta / Founder of Ranu Welum Foundation

Mar 12, 2024

A Winding Road From Zoology to Social Change: Gawsia Wahidunnessa Chowdhury / Professor of Zoology

Mar 12, 2024

Making Disabled Children Smile: Morita Hirokazu / Chairperson, The Volunteers Group to Send Wheelchairs to Overseas Children

Mar 11, 2024

Bringing People Together with Bamboo Lanterns: Mishiro Kenshi / Take-Akari Director

Mar 10, 2024

All Children Are Beautiful: Kinota Braithwaite / Author, Educator

Mar 7, 2024

Negotiators Create Hope: Miriam Coronel-Ferrer / Peace Negotiator

Mar 6, 2024

Trailblazing Diversity in Hollywood: Adele Lim / Director and Screenwriter

Mar 5, 2024

Museum for Period Equity: Vivi Lin / Period Equity, DEI and Human Rights Activist

Mar 4, 2024

Educational Opportunities for Syrian Children: Nakano Takayuki / Founder and CEO, Piece of Syria

Mar 3, 2024

A Cinema of Prayer: Tsukamoto Shinya / Film Director, Actor

Feb 28, 2024

Slaughter-Free Meat for a Sustainable Future: Uma Valeti / CEO/Founder of UPSIDE Foods

Feb 27, 2024

A Window into the Real Ukraine: Sasaki Ko / Photojournalist

Feb 25, 2024

No Fish, No Life: Sakana-kun (Fish Guy) / Marine Biologist

Feb 22, 2024

Fighting Stigma Through Music: Ronald Braunstein / Conductor and Founder of Me2

Feb 20, 2024

Save Lives on India's Roads: Piyush Tewari / Founder & CEO of SaveLIFE Foundation

Feb 18, 2024

The Pursuit of Gelato Perfection: Takada Satoshi / Gelato Artisan

Feb 15, 2024

A Brighter Future for Prisoners' Children: Indira Ranamagar / Founder of Prisoner's Assistance Nepal

Feb 11, 2024

The Spirit of the Shakuhachi: John Kaizan Neptune / Shakuhachi Player

Feb 8, 2024

Guardian of the Amazon: Alessandra Korap Munduruku / Amazon Environmental Activist

Jan 30, 2024

Fighting Extreme Heat: Eleni Myrivili / Global Chief Heat Officer

Jan 28, 2024

Breathing Life into Wood Sculptures: Otake Ryoho / Wood Sculptor

Jan 24, 2024

Art Beyond Cultural Barrier: Chaz Guest / Artist

Jan 23, 2024

Inclusivity Is Beautiful: Bernard Benzamin Nathan / Founder of Don Management

Jan 20, 2024

Exploring New Possibilities for Sculpture: Nawa Kohei / Sculptor

Jan 17, 2024

Effective Medical Care to All: Lalana Kongtoranin / Founder of the Let's Be Heroes Foundation

Jan 16, 2024

Breaking the Cycle of Child Abuse: Dr. Bernadette Madrid / Pediatrician

Jan 10, 2024

Transforming Limitations Into Motivation: Nicolas Huchet / Founder of My Human Kit

Jan 2, 2024

Eliminating Educational Inequity for All: Miwa Kaito / CEO, e-Education

Jan 1, 2024

A Brighter Future for Wheelchair Users: Oda Yuriko / Founder and CEO, WheeLog

Season 2023

Number#

Date

Name

Score

Status

Dec 26, 2023

A Passion for Chainsawing: Okada Nozomi / Forestry Worker

Dec 22, 2023

Animation as an Anti-Anxiety Therapy: Chen Lianhua / Independent Animation Filmmaker

Dec 21, 2023

The Feeling of Fearing the Unknown: Daisuke "Dice" Tsutsumi / Animation Film Director

Dec 20, 2023

Education, the Right To Be Humans: Pashtana Durrani / Founder, LEARN Afghan

Dec 18, 2023

Bringing Smiles to Ukrainian Children: Chujo Hideto / Director, Usmishka

Dec 15, 2023

Making Cultural Connections on the Stage: Koike Hiroshi / Director

Dec 8, 2023

Power of the Voices: Rene Silva dos Santos / Founder of Voz das Comunidades

Dec 7, 2023

Battle Against the Mosquito: Scott O'Neill / CEO, World Mosquito Program

Nov 29, 2023

Clean Air for Everyone: Nalleli Cobo / Environmental Activist

Nov 17, 2023

Murals Break Down Walls: Paola Delfín / Muralist

Nov 16, 2023

An Education Inclusive for Everyone: Jason Arday / Professor of Sociology of Education

Nov 6, 2023

Building a Better Future for Refugees: Watanabe Kankolongo Sayaka / Founder, WELgee

Nov 3, 2023

An Asian Way To Rebuild "Broken Courage": Chhim Sotheara / Psychiatrist

Oct 23, 2023

Animating the Soul: Taguchi Tomohisa / Animation Director

Oct 17, 2023

Documenting the Lives of Refugees: Komatsu Yuka / Photographer

Oct 16, 2023

The Thrill of the Fight: Kurahashi Kae / Japan Wheelchair Rugby Team Member

Oct 13, 2023

Resonate Around the World! Bells of Peace: Birgit Stifter / Director, Friedensdorf International

Oct 10, 2023

Innovation for a Thirsty World: Maeda Yosuke / Social Entrepreneur/CEO, WOTA

Oct 9, 2023

A Sauna for All Five Senses: Goto Netsuko / Aufguss Master

Oct 4, 2023

Protecting Cultural Heritage in Conflict Zones: Shoshana Stewart / President, Turquoise Mountain

Oct 3, 2023

Kintsugi as a Way of Life: Kiyokawa Hiroki / Lacquer Art Restorer

Oct 2, 2023

The Art and Science of Squids: Nakajima Ryuta / Visiting Researcher, Okinawa Institute of Science an

Sep 26, 2023

Sparking Young Minds with Movies: Kyoraiseki Saori / President, World Theater Project

Sep 25, 2023

Architecture That Empowers Communities: Sho Yutaka / Architectural Designer

Sep 18, 2023

Protecting Livelihoods amid War: Miyamoto Hideki / Structural Engineer/CEO, Miyamoto International

Sep 15, 2023

Hope in a Life Vest: Thami Schweichler / Co-Founder of Makers Unite

Sep 13, 2023

30 Years of Wildlife Filming: Gordon Buchanan / Wildlife Cameraman

Sep 12, 2023

Detecting Landmines Using Radar: Sato Motoyuki / Professor Emeritus, Tohoku University

Sep 11, 2023

A Festival of Paper and Light: Takenami Hiroo / Nebuta Master

Sep 8, 2023

Science in Conflict Zones: Ella Al-Shamahi / Paleoanthropologist & Comedian

Sep 5, 2023

Singing Together for Peace: Jenna / Gospel Choir Director, Songwriter

Sep 1, 2023

Returning Flags To Heal Wounds of War: Keiko Ziak / Co-Founder, OBON SOCIETY

Aug 18, 2023

Promote the Joy of Reading: Horiuchi Yoshimi / Founder of Bookworm Foundation

Aug 15, 2023

Support for the Suffering: Osa Yukie / Chairperson, Association for Aid and Relief, Japan

Aug 14, 2023

Dancing like Anything is Possible: Nakarai Shigeyuki (Shigekix) / Breakdancer

Aug 9, 2023

Creating a Future With Bamboo: Arief Rabik / Senior Advisor, Environmental Bamboo Foundation

Aug 8, 2023

Standing with the People of Sudan: Kawahara Naoyuki / Doctor/Founder, Rocinantes

Aug 7, 2023

An Architect's Mission: Mori Toshiko / Architect

Aug 3, 2023

Reviving Spirits of Ailing Backs: Marcus John / Founder of Back to Healing

Aug 1, 2023

Cafes Where Ordering Takes Time: Okumura Arisa / Founder, Slow Order Cafe

Jul 31, 2023

How to Win a Grammy: Masa Takumi / Composer, Arranger

Jul 28, 2023

Unity and Healing Through Singing: Gareth Malone / Musician & Choirmaster

Jul 26, 2023

The Power of the Pen at Times of Despair: Orhan Pamuk / Writer

Jul 20, 2023

Education at Hand: Luis von Ahn / Co-Founder & CEO of Duolingo

Jul 12, 2023

Ukraine - The Children's Inner Battle: Oksana Lebedeva / Founder of Gen.Ukrainian

Jul 10, 2023

Innovating the Art of Fermentation: Sasaki Yotaro / Chef, Brewmaster, and Rice Farmer

Jul 6, 2023

A Story Beyond Boundaries: Geetanjali Shree / Novelist

Jun 19, 2023

Giving Shape to People's Prayers: Katoh Gizan / Buddhist Sculptor

Jun 16, 2023

A Dream Back to Tang Dynasty: Xu Ge / Founder of the Tang Dynasty Court Music Restoration Organizati

Jun 5, 2023

Taking Out the Trash Together: Fukuda Keisuke / President, Green Bird

May 30, 2023

The Path to Pastry Perfection: Takahashi Moe / Pastry Chef

May 29, 2023

My Story, and Mine Alone: Oda Tokito / Professional Wheelchair Tennis Player

May 26, 2023

A Hong Kong Photojournalist in Ukraine: Kure Kaoru / Photographer & Journalist

May 25, 2023

Saving Migrating Birds From Extinction: Sacha Dench / Biologist, Conservation Without Borders

May 17, 2023

For Victims of the Gold Rush: Yuyun Ismawati / Co-founder, Nexus3 Foundation

May 12, 2023

The 15 Minute City: Carlos Moreno / Professor, IAE Paris Sorbonne Business School

May 1, 2023

Support That's a Part of You: Nakamura Noburo / CEO, Nakamura Brace

Apr 28, 2023

Returning the Benin Bronzes: Nick Merriman / Chief Executive of the Horniman Museum

Apr 24, 2023

Enchanted by Yokai Monsters: Matthew Meyer / Yokai Illustrator

Apr 17, 2023

Robotics for a Happier Future: Furuta Takayuki / General Manager, Future Robotics Technology Center

Apr 14, 2023

Fighting Through Dance: Ahmad Joudeh / Dancer

Apr 13, 2023

Joyful Moves to Counter Parkinson's: David Leventhal / Program Director, Dance for PD

Apr 3, 2023

Living Alongside the Bird of Yambaru: Nagamine Takashi / Veterinarian

Mar 31, 2023

Empowering Children Everywhere: Nadine Kaadan / Author and Illustrator

Mar 30, 2023

To Stand on Your Own Feet: Sunita Danuwar / Founder of Shakti Samuha and Sunita Foundation

Mar 29, 2023

Bringing Diversity to the World of Ballet: Cassa Pancho / Founder and Artistic Director of Ballet Bl

Mar 27, 2023

Turning Weaknesses into Strengths: Takeda Sana / Illustrator, Comic Artist

Mar 24, 2023

Women at the Extremes: Felicity Aston / Polar Explorer & Research Scientist

Mar 23, 2023

The Power of Dyslexic Thinking: Kate Griggs / Founder, Made By Dyslexia

Mar 20, 2023

Flying High from Fukushima: Muroya Yoshihide / Air Race Pilot

Mar 17, 2023

Art To Create a Stir on Social Issues: Sel Kofiga / Artist

Mar 16, 2023

Equity Through Budgeting: Shari Davis / Co-Executive Director, Participatory Budgeting Project

Mar 15, 2023

Hope Just a Bike Ride Away: Wyson Lungu / Social Entrepreneur

Mar 13, 2023

Exploring Our Sunken History: Yamafune Kotaro / Maritime Archaeologist

Mar 10, 2023

Bringing Peoples Together: Louis Martin / Founder of Refugee Food

Mar 9, 2023

Water Is Life: John DeYoung / Founder and CEO of Vivoblu

Mar 6, 2023

Promoting Fish Growth with Light: Takahashi Akiyoshi / Professor, School of Marine Biosciences, Kita

Mar 3, 2023

What Is Peace?: Steve Leeper / Peace Activist

Mar 2, 2023

Breaking Down Doors: Syed Saddiq / Co-Founder of MUDA

Mar 1, 2023

An Invite From a Prison Restaurant: Silvia Polleri / Founder and Manager, Restaurant InGalera

Feb 27, 2023

Songs of Hope for Ukraine: Nataliya Gudziy / Singer-Songwriter, Bandura Player

Feb 24, 2023

Transforming Society Through Philosophy: Markus Gabriel / Philosopher

Feb 23, 2023

Fighting Hate With Comedy: Jiaoying Summers / Stand-up Comedian, Comedy Club Owner

Feb 21, 2023

A More Inclusive Society Through Sport: Arimori Yuko / Former Marathon Runner

Feb 20, 2023

Living with Wild Geese: Kurechi Masayuki / President, Japanese Association for Wild Geese Protection

Feb 17, 2023

Leaving Our Homeland: Hamed Amiri / Writer

Feb 9, 2023

Art for Change: Chuu Wai / Artist

Feb 7, 2023

Connecting People Through Ballet: Kusakari Tamiyo / Actor, Former Ballerina

Feb 6, 2023

Online Education, Without Compromise: Hoshi Tomohiro / Head of School, Stanford Online High School

Jan 31, 2023

A Bridge Between Humans and Nature: Takasago Junji / Nature Photographer

Jan 30, 2023

Save the Reefs, Save the Oceans: Kinjo Koji / Coral Farmer

Jan 26, 2023

Nothing Is Impossible: Nimsdai Purja / Mountaineer and Former Soldier

Jan 20, 2023

Communication Through Music: Soma Yoyoka / Drummer

Jan 18, 2023

Breaking Barriers for Accessible Society: Shani Dhanda / Disability Activist

Jan 11, 2023

Remembering LGBTQ+ History: Lisa Power / LGBTQ+ Campaigner

Jan 2, 2023

Grandpa's Magic Brush: Shibasaki Harumichi / Painter, Watercolor Instructor

Jan 2, 2023

Becoming Your Best Self: Bitoh Tomomi / Personal Trainer, Ultramarathon Runner

Season 2022

Number#

Date

Name

Score

Status

120

Dec 25, 2022

Mime Speaks Louder than Words: Gamarjobat / Mime Artist

119

Dec 23, 2022

A New Frontier in Space: Maggie Aderin-Pocock / Space Scientist

118

Dec 20, 2022

Signs of Change for Deaf Performers: Monique Holt / Actor, Director, Writer

117

Dec 15, 2022

The Language of Incense: Fu Jingliang / Modern Incense Culture Founder

116

Dec 13, 2022

Medical Support for a World in Crisis: Zaher Sahloul / Physician and the President of MedGlobal

115

Dec 8, 2022

AI Translation for a Better World: Jaroslaw Kutylowski / Founder and CEO of DeepL

114

Nov 21, 2022

Believing in the Power of Haiku: Mayuzumi Madoka / Haiku Poet

113

Nov 15, 2022

Finding a Cure for Allergies: Nadim and Tanya Ednan Laperouse / Founders, Natasha Allergy Research Foundation

112

Nov 9, 2022

The Pianist Ukraine Loves: Nakamura Tempei / Composer & Pianist

111

Nov 7, 2022

Between Wildness and Civilization: Miyazaki Manabu / Photographer

110

Nov 1, 2022

Music Is the Firestarter: Mukengerwa Tresor Riziki / Musician and Refugee Activist

109

Oct 31, 2022

A New Foot Forward: Misawa Noriyuki / Shoemaker, Artist

108

Oct 30, 2022

Visualizing War with Digital Tools: Watanave Hidenori / Professor, The University of Tokyo

107

Oct 27, 2022

Turning Pollution Into Ink: Anirudh Sharma / Co-founder, Graviky Labs

106

Oct 25, 2022

Keeping Hope Alive for Myanmar: Shibuya Źarny / Fashion Designer, Full Moon Foundation Founder

105

Oct 23, 2022

Finding New Visions: Yamamura Koji / Animation Artist

104

Oct 20, 2022

The Key to Preventing School Shootings: Dewey Cornell / Forensic Clinical Psychologist

103

Oct 17, 2022

Striving for Sustainable Design: Shinohara Tomoe / Designer, Artist

102

Oct 17, 2022

A Maestro's Passion: Fabio Luisi / Conductor

101

Oct 4, 2022

Sustainable Pads Empower Indian Women: Kristin Kagetsu / Saathi Co-Founder

100

Oct 3, 2022

Ultrarealistic Metal Creatures: Mitsuta Haruo / Jizai Craftsman

Oct 2, 2022

Capturing a Black Hole: Honma Mareki / Astronomer/Professor, National Astronomical Observatory of Japan

Sep 30, 2022

Tackling the Global Food Crisis: Mark Lowcock / The Relief Chief 2017-2021, United Nations

Sep 26, 2022

Casting Light on Gender Inequality: Matsuda Aoko / Novelist

Sep 18, 2022

Solid Solutions for Regional Challenges: Ikehara Masaki / CEO, Morutaru Magic

Sep 13, 2022

The Joy of Social Change: Robin Takashi Lewis / Social Entrepreneur

Sep 12, 2022

Shaping a Shrine's Legacy: Kishikawa Masanori / Priest, Kanda Myojin Shrine

Sep 7, 2022

Sportswomen Shining With Equality: Kathryn Bertine / Former Pro Cyclist & Activist

Sep 2, 2022

Clear Leadership for Diversity: Bill Kramer / CEO of The Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences

Aug 31, 2022

Saving the "Sea Slaves": Patima Tungpuchayakul / Co-founder, Labour Protection Network

Aug 18, 2022

Making Baseball Fun the "Fans First Way": Jesse Cole / Owner, Savannah Bananas

Aug 16, 2022

For a More Tolerant World: Hayakawa Chie / Film Director

Aug 15, 2022

A Temple of Refuge: Thich Tam Tri / Buddhist Nun

Aug 12, 2022

Illustrating War for Children: Romana Romanyshyn / Picture Book Creator, Art Studio Agrafka

Aug 9, 2022

Taking Tokachi Cheese Global: Nagahara Chisato / Fromager

Aug 8, 2022

Aiding Others: Osa Yukie / President, Association for Aid and Relief, Japan

Aug 5, 2022

Confronting "Europe's Last Dictator": Svetlana Tikhanovskaya / Exiled Belarus Opposition Leader

Aug 4, 2022

Saving Ukraine's Forgotten Animals: Radosław Fedaczyński / Veterinary Surgeon

Jul 29, 2022

Sacred Flowers, Sacred River: Ankit Agarwal / Founder & CEO of Phool

Jul 25, 2022

Pushing the Boundaries of Bamboo: Tanabe Chikuunsai IV / Artist

Jul 22, 2022

Determined To Be Me: Naomi Shimada / Model and Author

Jul 21, 2022

Rising From the Slums as an E-Sport Professional: Brian Diang'a / Pro Gamer

Jul 20, 2022

The Necessity of an Intimacy Coordinator: Jean Franzblau / Intimacy Coordinator

Jul 18, 2022

Taking on the Waves: Horie Kenichi / Ocean Adventurer

Jul 15, 2022

Bravely Climb to New Heights: Xia Boyu / Mountain Climber

Jul 14, 2022

A Safer World for Children: Firzana Redzuan / Founder of Monsters Among Us

Jul 13, 2022

Farming for the Future: James Rebanks / Farmer and Author

Jul 11, 2022

The Alchemist of Copper Coloring: Orii Koji / CEO, Momentum Factory Orii

Jul 7, 2022

Ukraine as the Breakwater for Europe: Oleksandr Frazé-Frazénko / Poet, Musician, Filmmaker

Jul 6, 2022

Understanding Volcanoes: Tamsin Mather / Professor of Earth Sciences, Oxford University

Jul 4, 2022

Illuminating Lives in Rural Africa: Kawaguchi Nobuhiro / CEO, Kawaguchi Steel Industry

Jul 1, 2022

Steady Effort Saves Lives: Firdausi Qadri / Vaccine Scientist

Jun 30, 2022

A Digital Revolution in Fashion: Kerry Murphy / Co-Founder & CEO of The Fabricant

Jun 29, 2022

Seeking True Equality: Nalutporn Krairiksh / Executive Editor, ThisAble.me

Jun 28, 2022

Murals for a Brighter Future: Miyazaki Kensuke / Artist

Jun 27, 2022

Secrets of the Swarm: Maeno Ould Koutaro / Entomologist

Jun 24, 2022

Giving Food Waste a Chance: Nicole Klaski / Founder of The Good Food

Jun 23, 2022

Turning Waste Into Luxury Brands: Giulio Bonazzi / Chairman and CEO at Aquafil Group

Jun 22, 2022

The War Seen From the "Grey Zone": Andrey Kurkov / Writer

Jun 20, 2022

The Man Who Predicts Punches: Fukuda Naoki / Boxing Photographer

Jun 17, 2022

Russia - A Filmmaker's Story: Vitaly Mansky / Documentary Filmmaker

Jun 16, 2022

Speak Up! Generation Z!: Deja Foxx / Activist, Founder of GenZ Girl Gang

Jun 15, 2022

Drones Changing Logistics: Keller Rinaudo / CEO of Zipline

Jun 14, 2022

Serving Up Udon Worldwide: Awata Takaya / President & CEO, Toridoll Holdings

Jun 13, 2022

Gaming with Passion: Tokido / Pro Gamer

Jun 10, 2022

Changing the World Through the Power of Food: José Andrés / Chef/Founder, World Central Kitchen

Jun 9, 2022

A Gen Z Response to Global Problems: Avi Schiffmann / Internet Activist

Jun 8, 2022

Eradicating Female Genital Mutilation: Waris Dirie / Founder of Desert Flower Foundation

Jun 7, 2022

Supporting Expectant Mothers in Tanzania: Shinpuku Yoko / Midwife / Professor, Global Health Nursing

Jun 6, 2022

Rediscovering the True Russia: Boris Akunin / Author

Jun 2, 2022

Breaking the Oil Stranglehold: Mark van Baal / Founder, Follow This

Jun 1, 2022

Food Waste Into Nutrients!: Tinia Pina / Founder & CEO of AgTech Startup, Re-Nuble

May 30, 2022

Soothing Sounds for the Soul: Okawa Yoshiaki / Koto Player

May 25, 2022

Broadway Diversified by Asian Power: Baayork Lee / Co-founder of National Asian Artists Project

May 27, 2022

Makeup That's Changing the Homeless: Shirley Raines / Founder of Beauty 2 The Streetz

May 26, 2022

Agents of Change: Rafa Jafar / Founder, EwasteRJ

May 23, 2022

Building Relief Shelters from Paper: Ban Shigeru / Architect

May 16, 2022

Accessible and Inclusive Fashion: Hirabayashi Kei / Representative Director, Japan Persons with Disa

May 13, 2022

The Power of Plants: James Wong / Botanist

May 12, 2022

A New Model for Capitalism: Jay Coen Gilbert / Cofounder, Global B Corporation Movement

May 11, 2022

Projecting Diversity on Screen: Yalitza Aparicio / Actor, Activist

May 3, 2022

Preventing Disaster-Related Deaths: Takahashi Tomohiro / Journalist, Photographer

May 2, 2022

A Supercomputer for Everyone: Matsuoka Satoshi / Director, Riken Center for Computational Science

Apr 29, 2022

Ocean Rescue Is Fun: Benoit Schumann / Director, Project Rescue Ocean

Apr 18, 2022

Keeping the Beauty of Life Alive: Inata Miori / Photographer

Apr 14, 2022

Living With Robots in Aging Countries: Gajan Mohanarajah / Robot Engineer

Apr 13, 2022

Resilient Afghan Tech Women: Roya Mahboob / CEO of Digital Citizen Fund

Apr 11, 2022

Eco-Friendly Graffiti Removal: Fujimoto Yasushi / Ultra-High Pressure Washer Developer

Apr 1, 2022

An Inside View of Policing: Rosa Brooks / Police Reformer, Law Professor

Mar 31, 2022

Protecting Venice: Jane Da Mosto / Environmental Scientist

Mar 30, 2022

Protecting Biodiversity Through "Edible Tea": Kenneth Rimdahl / Founder & CEO Monsoon Tea / MONTEACO

Mar 11, 2022

Math Can Help: Ingrid Daubechies / Mathematician

Mar 10, 2022

A Life Devoted to Bees: Ryad Alsous / Professor, Beekeeper

Mar 9, 2022

Reviving Rationality: Steven Pinker / Experimental Cognitive Psychologist

Mar 7, 2022

Taking Fukushima Silk Global: Saito Eita / Managing Director, Saiei Silk

Mar 4, 2022

A Gameplan for Change: Leena Kejriwal / Founder of Missing Public Art Project

Feb 28, 2022

A New Wagashi Movement: Mitsubori Junichi / Wagashi Artist

Feb 25, 2022

Personal Stories Drive Politics: Sarah McBride / Delaware State Senator

Feb 23, 2022

Advancing Inclusion Through Technology: Joshua Miele / Accessible Technology Designer

Feb 21, 2022

The Cutting Edge of Nihonbuyo: Hanayagi Juraku / Nihonbuyo Performer, Choreographer

Feb 18, 2022

Taking Classical Music on the Road: Guilhem Fabre / Pianist

Feb 17, 2022

Dream Big and Tear Down Barriers: Lamont Marcell Jacobs Jr. / Tokyo Olympic Men's 100m Champion

Feb 16, 2022

Turning Uniqueness Into Influence: Brandon Farbstein / Global Empowerment Speaker & Gen Z Activist

Feb 14, 2022

Plastic That Returns to Nature: Mori Ryohei / CEO, Green Science Alliance

Feb 11, 2022

This Too Will Pass: Olivia Newton-John / Singer, Actor

Feb 10, 2022

Standing Between Elephants and Humans: Wang Bin / Asian Elephant Specialist

Feb 9, 2022

Personalized Dolls for an Inclusive World: Amy Jandrisevits / Founder of A Doll Like Me

Feb 8, 2022

Anime Is Not to Be Underestimated: Tomino Yoshiyuki / Animation Director

Feb 7, 2022

Filmmaking Beyond Borders: Ota Akimi / Filmmaker, Anthropologist

Feb 4, 2022

Socially Conscious Performance Artist: Nut Brother / Performance Artist

Feb 3, 2022

The Fight To End Digital Violence: Olimpia Coral Melo Cruz / Founder of "Frente Nacional para la Sor

Jan 28, 2022

Glaciers Are Our Lifeline: Jemma Wadham / Glaciologist

Jan 27, 2022

Regreening Sinai Peninsula: Ties van der Hoeven / Co-Founder of The Weather Makers

Jan 26, 2022

What Dinosaurs Can Teach Us: Steve Brusatte / Paleontologist & Evolutionary Biologist

Jan 24, 2022

Love of Sumo: Kon Hiyori / Sumo Wrestler

Jan 14, 2022

Sustainable Gastronomy Is Possible: Christopher Coutanceau / Chef

Jan 7, 2022

Acting With a Mission - A Better Future for All: Bella Galhos / Human Rights Activist

Jan 6, 2022

The Challenge of the Food Crisis: Antoine Hubert / Ÿnsect's Chairman and CEO

Jan 4, 2022

The Peanut Butter of Dreams: Naka Kotobuki / CEO, Sanchai

Jan 3, 2022

Overcoming Prejudice: Chang-Haeng / Juggling Performer

The episode list was truncated because of the large number of episodes. Visit the seasons page to see individual seasons' episode lists.