Bridge Beyond English
クリエイティブに考える力。国際的な視野。異文化コミュニケーションのスキル。英語を使って、世界と繋がりたい人へおすすめのポッドキャストです。 英語力が深まるのはもちろん、疑問を持ってしっかり考える力がつき、生き方、文化、社会についての様々な考え方に触れるきっかけとなります。リスナーの皆さんが新しい視点を培い、より自信を持って国際社会と対話できるように、日本在住の永井デイビッドがガイド役を勤めます。 上級者と中級者向けのディスカッションクラスに実際に参加したい方は、横浜元町で対面クラス、あるいはオンラインでも可能です。詳細は www.bridgebeyondenglish.com をご覧ください。 Do you want to use English to expand your creative thinking, global awareness, and cross-cultural communication skills to connect with the world? This podcast will not only help your English, but also help you ask better questions and connect with diverse ideas about life, culture, and society. David Nagai, the Japan-based host, will help you see the world in new ways and become a more confident global communicator. To join our high-level in-person and online classes based in Yokohama-Motomachi, Japan, please visit www.bridgebeyondenglish.com.
84. What This School Really Is – A Bridge BEYOND English
On the surface, Bridge Beyond English is an English school. But in this episode I'll explain how we offer more than just English.
We helps students think, express and connect in deeper ways.
It's not just about English language – it's about creating better relationships and experiencing the world in new ways.
That's why it's called Bridge Beyond English.
In this podcast, David Nagai shares diverse ideas to help you think creatively and connect globally – in English.
Join our classes online or in Yokohama-Motomachi, Japan to expand your English and:
83. What Does "Success" Really Mean for You?
What is your definition of success? We explore what "success" really means in this episode.
In this podcast, David Nagai shares diverse ideas to help you think creatively and connect globally – in English.
Join our classes online or in Yokohama-Motomachi, Japan to expand your English and:
· Creative thinking
· Global connection
· Cross-cultural communication
· (Advanced and intermediate English only)
· Join our in-person events here.
www.bridgebeyondenglish.com
82. Surrounded by Idiots – A Four-Color Communication Framework
This episode introduces a framework for understanding four main types of people. It will help you understand yourself and others. If you apply the ideas, you can improve your communication and connection with people who are different from you.
The original concept is from the Swedish author Thomas Erikson's book called Surrounded by Idiots. Also available in Japanese with the name 『世界にバカは４人いる』
In this podcast, David Nagai shares diverse ideas to help you think creatively and connect globally – in English.
Join our classes online or in Yokohama-Motomachi, Japan to expand your English and:
· Creative thinking
<...81. The Psychology of Brand Names
Why do certain brand names attract us?
One reason is their foreign-sounding names that cause us to associate the brand with a certain country and quality.
But is it really even from that country?
In this episode, we'll take a look at some brands that use foreign branding to explore the psychology of their name choices – both globally and in Japan.
In this podcast, David Nagai shares diverse ideas to help you think creatively and connect globally – in English.
Join our classes online or in Yokohama-Motomachi, Japan to e...
80. The Power of Changing Your Temperature
The way you speak and act has a temperature that makes people feel something. But you can always change your temperature.
In this episode, David shares about how our social temperature influences people and how we can adjust our communication to improve our connection and impact.
In this podcast, David Nagai shares diverse ideas to help you think creatively and connect globally – in English.
Join our classes online or in Yokohama-Motomachi, Japan to expand your English and:
· Creative thinking
· Global connection
· Cross-cultural communication
· (Advanc...
79. Four Chemicals We All Need
There are four chemicals we all need to survive and flourish in life. In this episode I share about each chemical and how we can keep getting enough balance. Enjoy!
In this podcast, David Nagai shares diverse ideas to help you think creatively and connect globally – in English.
Join our classes online or in Yokohama-Motomachi, Japan to expand your English and:
· Creative thinking
· Global connection
· Cross-cultural communication
· (Advanced and intermediate only)
www.bridgebeyondenglish.com
78. Don't Assume Too Fast
Assumptions help us, but they can also cause big problems. In this episode I share about five business situations where assuming too fast caused communication problems – and lessons we can learn from each.
Read the full text with vocabulary tips here at my blog.
In this podcast, David Nagai shares diverse ideas to help you think creatively and connect globally – in English.
Join our classes online or in Yokohama-Motomachi, Japan to expand your English and:
· Creative thinking
· Global connection
· Cross-cultural communication
· (Advanced and intermed...
77. When Power Has No Limits
What should we think about Donald Trump and global politics in 2025 onward? Here are some reflections about power, trust and democracy to help you think about the situation.
Read the full text version of this episode with vocabulary tips here at my blog.
In this podcast, David Nagai shares diverse ideas to help you think creatively and connect globally – in English.
Join our classes online or in Yokohama-Motomachi, Japan to expand your:
· Creative thinking
· Global connection
· Cross-cultural communication
· (Advanced and intermediate only)
...76. KitKat Chocolate – What it teaches us about communication & connection in business & life
How did KitKat chocolate succeed in Japan? Communication and connection in its branding! Let me share the story and how we can learn from it.
In this podcast, David Nagai shares diverse ideas to help you think creatively and connect globally – in English.
Join our classes online or in Yokohama-Motomachi, Japan to expand your:
· Creative thinking
· Global connection
· Cross-cultural communication
· (Advanced and intermediate only)
www.bridgebeyondenglish.com
What KitKat Chocolate Teaches Us About Communication, Culture & Connection
This episode explores the story of KitKat chocolate and how it succeeded in Japan. We can learn a lot from them and apply it to our business and life.
--
In this podcast, David Nagai shares diverse ideas to help you think creatively and connect globally – in English.
Join our classes online or in Yokohama-Motomachi, Japan to expand your:
· Creative thinking
· Global connection
· Cross-cultural communication
· (Advanced and intermediate only)
www.bridgebeyondenglish.com
75. Creative Insights from Current Events (Oct. 2025) – Based on real discussions with my students
In this episode I analyze current news stories through the lens of critical thinking, empathy, creative thinking and connection/application to our work and life.
The insights I share in this episode are based on some of the news topics and discussions I had last week with my high-level students here in Yokohama-Motomachi, Japan.
In this podcast, David Nagai shares diverse ideas to help you think creatively and connect globally – in English.
Join our classes online or in Yokohama-Motomachi, Japan to expand your:
· Creative thinking
· Glob...
Creative Insights from Current Events (Oct. 2025) – Based on real discussions with my students
In this episode I analyze current news stories through the lens of critical thinking, empathy, creative thinking and connection/application to our work and life.
The insights I share in this episode are based on some of the news topics and discussions I had last week with my high-level students here in Yokohama-Motomachi, Japan.
--
In this podcast, David Nagai shares diverse ideas to help you think creatively and connect globally – in English.
Join our classes online or in Yokohama-Motomachi, Japan to expand your:
Creative thinkingGlobal connectionCross-cultural communication(Advanced and in...74. Irony in American Culture & Politics
In this episode, David Nagai shares observations and commentary about the many ironies he observes in his American culture and politics.
In this podcast, David Nagai shares diverse ideas to help you think creatively and connect globally – in English.
Join our classes online or in Yokohama Motomachi, Japan to expand your:
Creative thinkingGlobal awarenessCross-cultural communication(Advanced and intermediate only)www.bridgebeyondenglish.com
73. The Psychology of Persuasion
In this episode you'll learn about the 7 principles of persuasion that create influence. (Based on Robert Cialdini's book called Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion)
In this podcast, David Nagai shares diverse ideas to help you think creatively and connect globally – in English.
Join our classes online or in Yokohama-Motomachi, Japan to expand your English and:
· Creative thinking
· Global connection
· Cross-cultural communication
· (Advanced and intermediate English only)
· Join our in-person events here.
www.bridgebeyondenglish.com
72. Gratitude & Curiosity
Want to enrich your life? Then ask these questions every day:
What am I grateful for? ... and... What if...?
Read the text version of this episode at the blog here.
In this podcast, David Nagai shares diverse ideas to help you think creatively and connect globally – in English.
Join our classes online or in Yokohama-Motomachi, Japan to expand your English and:
· Creative thinking
· Global connection
· Cross-cultural communication
· (Advanced and intermediate English only)
· Join our in-person events here.
www.bri...
71. Stability, Challenge & Trying New Things
Stability can be good, but a new challenge is often important if we want to reach our highest creative potential. This episode is about understanding why we fear challenge and how to take positive action in a smart and thoughtful way.
Read the text version of this episode at the blog here.
Find out more about Todd Henry, Daily Creative, and his other books and work here.
In this podcast, David Nagai shares diverse ideas to help you think creatively and connect globally – in English.
Join our classes online or in Yo...
70. Communicate With Empathy, Listening & Resilience / Mario Wissa Interview
Learn the importance of communicating with empathy, listening and resilience from communication expert Mario Wissa.
Find out more about Mario's work and books at mariowissa.com.
In this podcast, David Nagai shares diverse ideas to help you think creatively and connect globally – in English.
Join our classes online or in Yokohama-Motomachi, Japan to expand your English and:
· Creative thinking
· Global connection
· Cross-cultural communication
· (Advanced and intermediate English only)
· Join our in-person events here.
www.bridgebeyondenglish.com
69. The Spotlight Effect
Understanding the spotlight effect can help you stop worrying about what others think so you can relax and enjoy your life instead. Read the text version here.
In this podcast, David Nagai shares diverse ideas to help you think creatively and connect globally – in English.
Join our classes online or in Yokohama-Motomachi, Japan to expand your English and:
· Creative thinking
· Global connection
· Cross-cultural communication
· (Advanced and intermediate English only)
· Join our in-person events here.
www.bridgebeyondenglish.com
68. How to Express Sympathy
Do you know how to express sympathy in English? Find out in this episode.
Read the text version of this episode here.
In this podcast, David Nagai shares diverse ideas to help you think creatively and connect globally – in English.
Join our classes online or in Yokohama-Motomachi, Japan to expand your English and:
· Creative thinking
· Global connection
· Cross-cultural communication
· (Advanced and intermediate English only)
· Join our in-person events here.
www.bridgebeyondenglish.com
67. Primal World Beliefs
Do you know your primal world beliefs? (The basic ways that you view the world) Find out in this episode as I explain it.
Read the text version of this episode here.
In this podcast, David Nagai shares diverse ideas to help you think creatively and connect globally – in English.
Join our classes online or in Yokohama-Motomachi, Japan to expand your English and:
· Creative thinking
· Global connection
· Cross-cultural communication
· (Advanced and intermediate English only)
· Join our in-person events here.
www.bri...
66. Three Types of Students
There are generally three types of English students. Learn which you are and what it means. Read the text version of this episode here.
In this podcast, David Nagai shares diverse ideas to help you think creatively and connect globally – in English.
Join our classes online or in Yokohama-Motomachi, Japan to expand your English and:
· Creative thinking
· Global connection
· Cross-cultural communication
· (Advanced and intermediate English only)
· Join our in-person events here.
www.bridgebeyondenglish.com
65. We Believe in Diversity, Inclusion, and Respect
At Bridge Beyond English, we uphold the values of diversity, inclusion, and respect for all people.
Read the text version of this episode here.
In this podcast, David Nagai shares diverse ideas to help you think creatively and connect globally – in English.
Join our classes online or in Yokohama-Motomachi, Japan to expand your English and:
· Creative thinking
· Global connection
· Cross-cultural communication
· (Advanced and intermediate English only)
· Join our in-person events here.
www.bridgebeyondenglish.com
64. If You Are Tired...
If you're exhausted, this poem and reflection will help you gain perspective.
In this podcast, David Nagai shares diverse ideas to help you think creatively and connect globally – in English.
Join our classes online or in Yokohama-Motomachi, Japan to expand your English and:
· Creative thinking
· Global connection
· Cross-cultural communication
· (Advanced and intermediate English only)
· Join our in-person events here.
www.bridgebeyondenglish.com
63. Improve Your Video Meetings in English (A Guide for Japanese Business People)
Learn how to improve your online meetings in English!
Read the text version here with English tips included.
In this podcast, David Nagai shares diverse ideas to help you think creatively and connect globally – in English.
Join our classes online or in Yokohama-Motomachi, Japan to expand your English and:
· Creative thinking
· Global connection
· Cross-cultural communication
· (Advanced and intermediate English only)
· Join our in-person events here.
www.bridgebeyondenglish.com
62. How to Disagree Politely (In English)
Disagreement is necessary. Here are tips on how to do it right!
Read the text version here.
In this podcast, David Nagai shares diverse ideas to help you think creatively and connect globally – in English.
Join our classes online or in Yokohama-Motomachi, Japan to expand your English and:
· Creative thinking
· Global connection
· Cross-cultural communication
· (Advanced and intermediate English only)
· Join our in-person events here.
www.bridgebeyondenglish.com
61. The Six Hats Brainstorming Framework
Learn to brainstorm using the six hats framework.
Read the text version here with English tips included.
In this podcast, David Nagai shares diverse ideas to help you think creatively and connect globally – in English.
Join our classes online or in Yokohama-Motomachi, Japan to expand your English and:
· Creative thinking
· Global connection
· Cross-cultural communication
· (Advanced and intermediate English only)
· Join our in-person events here.
www.bridgebeyondenglish.com
60. Sparketypes
Learn about Sparketypes to understand your unique strengths at work to improve your work and life.
Read the text version at the blog here.
Take the free assessment at sparketype.com.
In this podcast, David Nagai shares diverse ideas to help you think creatively and connect globally – in English.
Join our classes online or in Yokohama-Motomachi, Japan to expand your English and:
· Creative thinking
· Global connection
· Cross-cultural communication
· (Advanced and intermediate English only)
· Join our in-person events here.
www.b...
59. Stoic Philosophy for Modern Life
Here are some tips from Stoic philosophy to help improve your modern life.
Read the text version or watch the video slide presentation here.
In this podcast, David Nagai shares diverse ideas to help you think creatively and connect globally – in English.
Join our classes online or in Yokohama-Motomachi, Japan to expand your English and:
· Creative thinking
· Global connection
· Cross-cultural communication
· (Advanced and intermediate English only)
· Join our in-person events here.
www.bridgebeyondenglish.com
58. How It Feels to be Russian
I asked Arina Petrova how it feels to be Russian. Here is her thoughtful and insightful response.
Read the text version at the blog here:
In this podcast, David Nagai shares diverse ideas to help you think creatively and connect globally – in English.
Join our classes online or in Yokohama-Motomachi, Japan to expand your English and:
· Creative thinking
· Global connection
· Cross-cultural communication
· (Advanced and intermediate English only)
· Join our in-person events here.
www.bridgebeyondenglish.com
57. Freewriting to Free Your Mind
Learn how to use freewriting to free your mind.
Read the text version at the blog here.
In this podcast, David Nagai shares diverse ideas to help you think creatively and connect globally – in English.
Join our classes online or in Yokohama-Motomachi, Japan to expand your English and:
· Creative thinking
· Global connection
· Cross-cultural communication
· (Advanced and intermediate English only)
· Join our in-person events here.
www.bridgebeyondenglish.com
56. The SCAMPER Method
Learn how to brainstorm using the SCAMPER Method.
Read text version here at the blog.
In this podcast, David Nagai shares diverse ideas to help you think creatively and connect globally – in English.
Join our classes online or in Yokohama-Motomachi, Japan to expand your English and:
· Creative thinking
· Global connection
· Cross-cultural communication
· (Advanced and intermediate English only)
· Join our in-person events here.
www.bridgebeyondenglish.com
55. How to Critique Sensitively
Learn how to critique people or ideas sensitively in English.
Read the text version here at the blog.
Want to connect with the changing world in English?
Join a free trial English class online or in Motomachi to expand your:
* CREATIVE THINKING
* GLOBAL AWARENESS
* CROSS-CULTURAL COMMUNICATION
(Advanced and intermediate only)
54. Making Polite Requests In English
Learn how to make polite requests in English with these nuances and tips.
Read the text version at our blog here.
Want to connect with the changing world in English?
Join a free trial English class online or in Motomachi to expand your:
* CREATIVE THINKING
* GLOBAL AWARENESS
* CROSS-CULTURAL COMMUNICATION
(Advanced and intermediate only)
53. Pandemic Poetry
These are some poems that reflect on our pandemic experience.
The original poems can be found at Mediators Beyond Borders here.
Want to connect with the changing world in English?
Join a free trial English class online or in Motomachi to expand your:
* CREATIVE THINKING
* GLOBAL AWARENESS
* CROSS-CULTURAL COMMUNICATION
(Advanced and intermediate only)
52. Learning from My Baby
We can learn a lot from babies. Here's what I've learned from my son who just turned one year old!
Want to connect with the changing world in English?
Join a free trial English class online or in Motomachi to expand your:
* CREATIVE THINKING
* GLOBAL AWARENESS
* CROSS-CULTURAL COMMUNICATION
(Advanced and intermediate only)
51. Pay Attention & Change
Pay attention and adapt to change.
Here are two big lessons I've learned from jogging in the forest.
Want to connect with the changing world in English?
Join a free trial English class online or in Motomachi to expand your:
* CREATIVE THINKING
* GLOBAL AWARENESS
* CROSS-CULTURAL COMMUNICATION
(Advanced and intermediate only)
50. The Culture Map
Learn all about how the Culture Map framework by Erin Meyer can help you communicate better with different cultures. I recommend her website and book (The Culture Map) in English or Japanese.
Click here to follow along at the blog and see the charts.
Want to connect with the changing world in English?
Join a free trial English class online or in Motomachi to expand your:
* CREATIVE THINKING
* GLOBAL AWARENESS
* CROSS-CULTURAL COMMUNICATION
(Advanced and intermediate only)
49. Plan Vs. Strategy
What's the difference between a plan and a strategy? This episode explains the important difference.
This episode my slower voice recording of Dr. Roger Martin's video presentation on Harvard Business Review's YouTube channel. I hope the English tips (at the blog) and slow/clear audio I provide can help you understand and appreciate Dr. Martin's wonderful ideas! Please visit the original video at Harvard Business Review's channel here.
Want to connect with the changing world in English?
Join a free trial English class online or in Motomachi to expand your:
<...48. The Importance-Difficulty Matrix
Learn how to priorities your tasks so you can accomplish your goals effectively.
Please follow along with the images at the blog here.
Want to connect with the changing world in English?
Join a free trial English class online or in Motomachi to expand your:
* CREATIVE THINKING
* GLOBAL AWARENESS
* CROSS-CULTURAL COMMUNICATION
(Advanced and intermediate only)
47. The Philippines 2022 Election
Learn from Chiara Manuel about the complexity of the recent 2022 elections in the Philippines. She provides an overview and opinion.
Manuel is a lecturer at Thames International Business School and holds an MA from the University of the Philippines Diliman.
To read the text version of this episode (includes English tips), visit our blog.
Want to connect with the changing world in English?
Join a free trial English class online or in Motomachi to expand your:
* CREATIVE THINKING
* GLOBAL AWARENESS
* CROSS-CULTURAL COMMUNICATION
<...
