In this engaging episode of the Japanese America podcast, hosts Michelle and Koji dive into the captivating world of Japanese stationery with special guest Mark Sakaguchi from Kinokuniya Bookstore and Yuri Aida from Design for America Inc. They explore the allure of Japanese pens, notebooks, and accessories, which have evolved from being perceived as cheap to becoming celebrated for their impeccable quality and craftsmanship. The episode offers insights into the cultural significance and growing popularity of Japanese stationery in the United States, highlighting unique products like washi tapes and the beloved Mitsubishi Jetstream pen. With an upcoming stationery festival in Santa Monica, listeners are invited to embrace the artful lifestyle inspired by these exquisite writing tools. Join Michelle, Koji, and their guests as they share personal stories, explore trends, and celebrate the meticulous art behind Japanese stationery.
Ever found yourself inexplicably drawn to an animated lioness or a buffoonish cartoon villain? Join Cat, Koji, and Dwayne as they hilariously confess their cartoon crushes and what they might reveal about our twisted psyches. Meanwhile, they unravel the mental health allegories of Winnie the Pooh, proving that even honey-loving bears have their quirks. Special guest Adam Yanzer chimes in with tales of wildfire survival, blending heartfelt stories with absurd diagnoses for our beloved childhood characters. Toss in some bizarre safety tips inspired by notorious criminals, and you’ve got a podcast episode that’s as unpredictable as Tigger on a sugar rush!
ABOUT OUR GUEST
Adam Yenser is a comedian and Emmy-winning writer. For ten years he wrote for The Ellen DeGeneres Show where he starred in the segments “Kevin the Cashier” and “Adam Investigates.” He has appeared on Conan, FOX Laughs, and Gutfeld!, was a freelance contributor to SNL’s Weekend Update, has written for The Oscars, and co-produced the web series “Laugh Lessons with Kevin Nealon.” Adam mixes sharp observational humor with a unique take on politics and has had sketches featured by Daily Wire and The Babylon Bee. He cohosts the Babylon Bee podcast as well as his own satirical YouTube show, The Cancelled
RESEARCH
We do most of our research online… because why not? Here are the links we quoted from or used for background or inspiration.
What are “they” not telling us? We’ll find out, figure out, and, when all else fails, make up the missing pieces to some of the most scandalous, unexplained phenomena, and true crime affecting our world today. Join comedian Dwayne Perkins, writer Koji Steven Sakai, and comedian/actor/writer Cat Alvarado on The Unofficial Official Story Podcast every month, and by the end of each episode, we’ll tell you what’s really…maybe…happening.
Join us on a hilariously twisted journey as former corporate attorney turned comedian Seth Lawrence takes the stand-up stage to explore the zany intersections of law, laughter, and celebrity conspiracies. From uncovering the “bear necessities” of safety advice gone hilariously wrong to debating whether Stephen King is a secret assassin, this episode serves up a hearty mix of logic and lunacy. Dive into tales of celebrity deaths, wild conspiracies, and the humor of debating with a lawyer who knows his punchlines as well as his legal lines. Whether you’re a conspiracy buff or just need a good laugh, Seth’s anecdotes promise to keep you entertained.
ABOUT OUR GUEST
Seth Lawrence comes from a loving family in Orem, Utah. He went to law school and worked as an attorney in North Carolina. He is married with four kids. So, how did he end up in stand-up comedy? Funny story…
In 2018, Seth was a finalist in the US Comedy Contest. In 2021, he worked as a host for the World Series of Comedy, performing in clubs all over the country. You can hear him on SiriusXM Radio on Family USA and Jeff & Larry’s Comedy Roundup, if you’re lucky. Seth also recorded a Dry Bar special called “Ready or Not” that is currently available on drybarcomedy.com and on the Dry Bar Comedy app.
Seth has a podcast (surprised?) Called Self Help Yourself. He reviews self-help books and gives some updates on good news in the world in a segment called “Seven Minutes in Heaven.” Find it everywhere you get your podcasts.
RESEARCH
We do most of our research online… because why not? Here are the links we quoted from or used for background or inspiration.
What are “they” not telling us? We’ll find out, figure out, and, when all else fails, make up the missing pieces to some of the most scandalous, unexplained phenomena, and true crime affecting our world today. Join comedian Dwayne Perkins, writer Koji Steven Sakai, and comedian/actor/writer Cat Alvarado on The Unofficial Official Story Podcast every month, and by the end of each episode, we’ll tell you what’s really…maybe…happening.
In this enlightening podcast episode, “Acts of Kindness and Resistance: Japanese American Incarceration and Holiday Traditions,” the hosts delve into the poignant history of Japanese American incarceration during World War II. They explore the powerful themes of kindness and resistance, highlighting the unwavering support of the Quakers and the American Friends Service Committee, who stood by the Japanese American community through advocacy and educational support. As the episode unfolds, listeners are treated to heartwarming stories of small gestures, such as receiving an avocado from a friend, and the rich tapestry of cultural traditions, including Japanese New Year’s customs. The narrative celebrates figures like Gordon Hirabayashi and Ralph Lazo, who bravely opposed injustice, and educators like Claire Breed, who supported interned children. The episode concludes with a heartfelt thank you to listeners and a promise of fresh stories in the upcoming season.
EXCLUSIVE:24, Major League and Far From Heaven star Dennis Haysbert is attached to lead cast in action-drama American Smuggler.
The film will chart the relentless hunt for Craig Petties, an American drug trafficker best known for the criminal empire he led in Memphis while operating in collaboration with Mexico’s infamous drug cartels. Haysbert will play a prominent CIA agent in the film.
The project will hone in on the efforts of SEAL Team Six, Delta Force and the Mexican Marines, who painstakingly dismantled an international drug network that plagued communities across North America for decades. The story also brings to light the lesser-known tragedy of children forced to labor in El Chapo’s infamous tunnels, often losing their lives in collapses. Petties was sentenced to life in prison in 2013 at age 36 for his trafficking career and connection to multiple homicides.
The film will be written by Koji Steven Sakai (Skeletons in the Closet), Sam Wildhorse Bass of EuroAmerica Films and Tracy Matthews of Lion of Judah Productions. The screenplay will be based on Matthews’ experience as a civilian team leader during the operation.
Producers are David M. Matthews of Stone Gate Entertainment; Cheryl Martin and Troy Allen of CMA Entertainment; Jarnell Stokes, Isaiah Stokes, and Aisha Wynn of Stoked Bros Media; and Lion of Judah Productions.
Haysbert shares executive producer credits with Geevani Singh and retired member of SEAL Team Six Don Mann. Former professional football player and Navy SEAL Damian Jackson will consult.
Haysbert is best known for portraying President David Palmer in hit series 24, for which he was Golden Globe nominated, baseball player Pedro Cerrano in the Major League film trilogy, and for his role in Todd Haynes’ acclaimed drama Far From Heaven.
“This film offers a comprehensive view from all involved parties: the street hustlers, the drug cartel, and the team that captured El Chapo and rescued trafficked children. It’s a unique and vital story of exploitation, greed, and the valor of the soldiers who intervened,” said Mann. “American Smuggler promises to be an unforgettable cinematic and gaming experience that balances its pulse-pounding storytelling with a powerful message of hope and humanity.”
A Memphis native, NBA player-turned-producer Jarnell Stokes added: “At its heart, American Smuggler is much more than an action-packed drama. It’s a mission-driven project with a critical humanitarian goal: to not only entertain, but also educate and inspire action by bringing widespread awareness to the atrocities occurring to children around the world. We hope to be a voice for the voiceless and work toward creating meaningful change.”
Koji Steven Sakai 