Lawyer on Air

Epizode

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  From Paralegal to Legal Department Manager with Sawako Kakutani 12.10.2026 38min

  Sawako Kakutani is Corporate Secretarial Department Manager and Legal Department Manager at ASA Professionals Singapore, working remotely from Japan, and an attorney licensed in Washington State.  She previously worked as Legal Department Manager at Hitachi Construction Machinery and does hybrid work between Singapore and Japan. We hear how Sawako decided that law would be a way she could possibly enjoy working at a “traditional Japanese company”. If you are someone with endless curiosity you will find Catherine’s discussion with Sawako an interesting insight to possibilities in the legal world in Japan.If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Head over to Apple Podcasts to leave a review and we’d love it if you would leave us a message here!In this episode you’ll hear:How a philosophy book in a friend's library, first sparked Sawako's interest in lawThe paralegal role at AVAYA, with Lawyer on Air guest, Junko Mukoyama, that revealed in-house legal work could be genuinely excitingThe tips Sawako offers for anyone who wants become a bridge between culturesAbout SawakoSawako Kakutani is Corporate Secretarial Department Manager and Legal Department Manager at ASA Professionals Singapore, working remotely from Japan, and an attorney licensed in Washington State.  Sawako has built an international in-house legal career spanning Japan and Southeast Asia, with extensive experience in cross-border commercial transactions, corporate governance, compliance, data privacy and legal support for overseas businesses. From 2021 to 2025, Sawako was based in Singapore with Hitachi Construction Machinery Asia & Pacific, where she served as General Manager of Legal and supported the company's businesses and subsidiaries across the region. She returned to Japan in April 2025 and served as Legal Department Manager at Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd. before transitioning to her current roles at ASA Professionals Singapore on July 1, 2026.  Fluent in Japanese and English, Sawako has lived in the United States for 11 years and Singapore for four years. She holds a Bachelor of Laws from Waseda University, a Juris Doctor from Omiya Law School and an LL.M. from Temple University Beasley School of Law, Japan Campus. She became licensed to practise law in Washington State in January 2026.  Outside work, Sawako is an enthusiastic dragon boat paddler and also enjoys marathons, mountain trekking, cycling, motorcycle touring and travel. Connect with SawakoLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sawako-kakutani-8902a9bb/ Connect with Catherine LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/oconnellcatherine/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawyeronair
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  Building a Legal Career in AI Ethics at Sony with Yoko Arisaka 27.09.2026 42min

  Yoko Arisaka is General Manager of Sony Group's Legal Department and a key architect of Sony's AI ethics guidelines. Yoko shares her journey from Tokyo to New York,  experiencing the World Financial Crisis there, and finding her niche at Sony, forging a deep interest in AI governance. You will be surprised at how Yoko looks to the past and outside of the law for hints on how to bring about the future. If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Head over to Apple Podcasts to leave a review and we’d love it if you would leave us a message here!In this episode you’ll hear:Yoko’s “small”, consistent networking habit that compounded into creating a valuable network for herThe moment in 2015 when she was first asked to research the new field of AI ethics The technical and soft skills a legal general manager needs right nowYoko's biggest concern about AI adoption is not speed but the hidden long-term costsAbout YokoYoko Arisaka is General Manager of the Legal Section, Legal Department at Sony Group Corporation. She plays an important role in offering legal guidance and support for the implementation of new technologies and creating new businesses in Sony. She works closely with cross-functional teams to ensure compliance with legal requirements and minimize potential risks. In addition to her expertise in corporate law, she has made contributions to the field of AI ethics. She was a key member of the team responsible for developing Sony Group AI Ethics Guidelines. She has published multiple articles on the subject in reputable Japanese legal journals. She has a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree from the University of Tokyo and a Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree from UCLA School of Law, and is licensed to practice law in the State of New York. In her free time, she enjoys staying active, exploring gut health and inner wellness, and dining out with friends.Connect with Yoko Please contact Catherine to be connected with YokoConnect with Catherine LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/oconnellcatherine/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawyeronair
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  Simon Hollander on a Legal Career Built on Curiosity and Tips to Tackle AI Tools in the Market 13.09.2026 55min

  Special guest, Simon Hollander is Senior Corporate Counsel at Amazon Web Services and supports Products and Security Legal across Asia Pacific as AWS's regulatory expert on cloud and AI. Simon shares his interesting career path and the women lawyers who influenced every pivotal career decision he ever made. We hear about the tools coming out of leading AI models, Simon's insights on brain fry, and what lawyers should be working on in this age of AI.If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Head over to Apple Podcasts to leave a review and we’d love it if you would leave us a message here!In this episode you’ll hear:How nearly every pivotal legal career decision Simon has ever made was influenced by a woman lawyer. Listen in for some shoutouts to our LOA community!The “uncommon sense” lesson lawyers need to learn that no law school teachesSimon’s experience from the front line of AI development and the “brain fry” phenomenon replacing “brain rot”About SimonSimon is Senior Corporate Counsel at Amazon Web Services and supports Products and Security Legal across Asia Pacific (ex-China but including Japan and New Zealand). Before joining Amazon Web Services in 2016, he was Senior Counsel at Accenture Japan. Before going in house he was in private practice on the corporate legal team at Morrison & Foerster LLP in Tokyo. He is qualified as a barrister in New Zealand and has a BA/LLB from Auckland UniversityBefore life as a lawyer Simon spent seven years working as an IT Consultant for Deloitte Tohmatsu, and later as an environmental policy consultant at Tokio Marine Risk Consulting before deciding to earn his New Zealand bar admission while living and working in Japan and to finally try out becoming a lawyer. Simon grew up - in his own words - an army brat, moving around attending 16 schools. He moved to Japan straight out of uni and has lived here for 27 years now. In his years in Japan he has been a rugby referee, managed the local French rugby club for several years, been a club DJ and his latest passion is running and is hoping he can run the Tokyo Marathon once again with the current lottery. In his free time he also has a video blog about weekly news and culture topics in Japan he has been doing for more than 15 years now.Like everyone else Simon is wrapped up in learning AI and feels very lucky to be in a position to get access to the latest models and tools, and is a trainer of how to use this tech inside Amazon Legal globally, and has given seminars for regulators inside and outside of Japan on the technology. Connect with SimonLinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-hollander-9b5a3a5/  LinksPunk Doily: https://www.instagram.com/punkdoily Connect with Catherine LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/oconnellcatherine/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawyeronair
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  The Deep End Strategy: How Nancy Miyaji Chose High Risk, High Responsibility to Build her Legal Career 02.08.2026 44min

  What do you do when a global financial crisis derails your carefully planned legal career before it even begins? Rather than hold out for the law firm role she wanted, Nancy Miyaji threw herself into the deep end and built her career anyway. With a superpower of bridging perspectives, Nancy's story is one of resilience, clarity of purpose that shows another successful pathway in law, whatever is happening around you. If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Head over to Apple Podcasts to leave a review and we’d love it if you would leave us a message here!In this episode you’ll hear:How arriving in Japan at age 11 without a word of Japanese forged a resilience that still her todayChoosing a startup role during the global financial crisis when no law firm jobs were availableThe valuable lessons she learned in the deep end working on an IPO and M&A at a start up companyThe reframe she would give her younger self: stop asking "why me?" and start asking this insteadHer favourite beverage and other fun facts About NancyNancy Miyaji is a corporate lawyer whose work focuses on cross-border transactions, compliance, and corporate matters in Japan and internationally.She is a Foreign Lawyer at Iwata Godo and a member of the New York Bar. Her experience spans both private practice and global companies, including Simmons & Simmons and Hitachi, where she has worked on cross-border transactions, compliance, and corporate matters.Rather than following a conventional legal career path, Nancy has built a career across private practice and in-house environments, developing her own perspective on professional growth and success.She holds an LL.B. from Kyushu University and an LL.M. from the University of California, Berkeley School of Law, and works in Japanese, English, and Chinese.Outside of work, Nancy enjoys pushing her limits. She played competitive table tennis in her youth and later led her high school mountaineering club. She has since climbed Mount Fuji and completed the Saitama Marathon. She is also passionate about volunteer work supporting foreign women in Japan to achieve success on their own terms.Connect with NancyWebsite: https://www.iwatagodo.com/english/lawyers/miyaji_nancy.html LinksSeattle’s Best Coffee: https://www.jrff.co.jp/seabest/ Connect with Catherine LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/oconnellcatherine/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawyeronair
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  Collect Your Edges: Sachiko Ichikawa’s career in law, finance and governance in Japan 20.07.2026 1h 5min

  What do you do when your first employer hands you a uniform and tells you to serve tea, despite having a law degree from Tokyo University? For Sachiko Ichikawa, the answer was to quit, pick up law again, and spend the next three decades collecting edges that no one else had. Now a founding member of BDTI (the Board Director Training Institute), a qualified lawyer and CPA, and a Business Lawyers Award winner in governance, Sachiko has trained over 4,000 board directors in Japan and sat in boardrooms where she has seen—up close—what separates the A team from the B team. If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Head over to Apple Podcasts to leave a review and we’d love it if you would leave us a message here!In this episode you’ll hear:Sachiko’s first job at a bank that saw her take control of her career and go into lawThe Livedoor securities fraud case that introduced Sachiko to corporate governanceWhat Sachiko observed in her very first boardroom that taught her how to be an excellent board memberHer favourite book and other fun facts About SachikoSachiko Ichikawa a lawyer at Tanabe & Partners, a director at Board Directors Training Institute, an independent director at Azbil, Olympus and Tokyo Electron Connect with Sachiko LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sachiko-ichikawa-203bb621/ LinksEnoura Observatory: https://www.odawara-af.com/ja/enoura/ Boards that lead: https://amzn.asia/d/02LOo8NO Connect with Catherine LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/oconnellcatherine/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawyeronair
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  Direction, Not Speed: A research fellowship in Japan, Motherhood and Redefining Legal Career Success with Dajeong Lee 05.07.2026 46min

  Dajeong Lee is a partner specialising in dispute resolution and insolvency, currently in Japan as a research fellow at Waseda University.  Dajeong's story is about the moments no one plans for. With wisdom drawn from jazz music, long-distance running, and the rhythm of daily life in Japan, Dajeong offers a refreshingly honest perspective on ambition, identity, and what it really means to keep moving forward through career detours and parenthood.If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Head over to Apple Podcasts to leave a review and we’d love it if you would leave us a message here!In this episode you’ll hear:How navigating three major life changes at once, tested her in completely different waysWhy Dajeong sees her Waseda research fellowship as an investment in herself, not stepping away from her partner level legal careerHer shift from sprinter mindset to long-distance runner mindset: why endurance now matters more to her than speedHer favourite author and other fun facts About DajeongDajeong Lee is a Korean lawyer and a partner in the Litigation Practice Group at Yulchon LLC, one of Korea’s leading law firms. She majored in Communications at Ewha Womans University and received her J.D. from Yonsei University Law School. Since joining Yulchon in 2018, she has focused primarily on insolvency and restructuring, financial disputes, and corporate litigation, representing clients in a wide range of civil and commercial matters. She is currently a visiting researcher at Waseda University in Japan, where she is conducting comparative research on insolvency law in Korea and Japan. After giving birth to her first child in late 2025, she has been balancing motherhood, legal research, and her career as a lawyer while living in Tokyo. Outside of work, she enjoys reading mystery novels, watching baseball, and traveling. She is also interested in learning and growing through new languages, cultures, and environments. Connect with Dajeong Law firm contact: https://www.yulchon.com/en/professionals/professionals-view/djlee23264/lee-dajeong.do LinksKeigo Higashino novels: https://www.amazon.co.jp/%E6%B4%8B%E6%9B%B8-Keigo-Higashino/s?rh=n%3A52033011%2Cp_27%3AKeigo%2BHigashino Connect with Catherine LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/oconnellcatherine/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawyeronair
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  The Mosaic Career: How Chie Hashimoto Built a Patchwork of Skills into a Luxury Legal Leadership Role 21.06.2026 53min

  Chie Hashimoto is Senior Legal Manager at Richemont Japan LLC, the luxury group behind Cartier, Montblanc, and more. In this episode full of Easter egg surprises, we hear about Chie's path, which was anything but linear. With reflections from Catherine woven throughout, this episode is as much a meditation on non-linear careers as it is a masterclass in legal leadership, cultural nuance, and the value of saying yes to things. Chie shows us how interests outside of law can help you make those impossible work “missions”possible.If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Head over to Apple Podcasts to leave a review and we’d love it if you would leave us a message here!In this episode you’ll hear:Chie’s foray into business before attending law school as a mother of a young childThe transition for “advising” to “leading” the business The interests outside of law that make the impossible, possibleHer favourite book and other fun facts About ChieChie Hashimoto is the Senior Legal Manager at Richemont Japan LLC, where she oversees legal strategy, contract negotiation, and compliance across a portfolio of leading luxury brands including Cartier, Montblanc, and Vacheron Constantin. With over 15 years of multinational legal experience spanning the luxury goods and technology sectors, she has built a name for practical, business-focused legal solutions and a forward-thinking approach to legal operations — including the adoption of AI-driven review platforms.Chie holds a Bachelor of Law from Dokkyo University, a Master of Laws (LL.M.) from the William S. Richardson School of Law, University of Hawaii, and a Graduate Certificate in Asia Pacific Leadership from the East-West Center, established by the U.S. Congress. She is a licensed attorney admitted to the New York Bar, a Certified Internal Auditor, and holds qualifications in wine expertise, including the J.S.A. Wine Expert certification and WSET Level 2.Outside of the office, Chie holds a 4th Dan Black Belt in Wado-kai Karate as well as a NAUI Rescue Diver certification. She is also a passionate wine enthusiast and a keen traveler.Connect with ChieLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chie-hashimoto-8458b3a/ LinksDunhill Bar: https://tabelog.com/tokyo/A1301/A130101/13224293/ Absent in the Spring, Agatha Christie: https://amzn.asia/d/05FzJ8Hz Connect with Catherine LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/oconnellcatherine/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawyeronair
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  Part 2: The CLO, the GC and Governance Beyond the Legal Function with Natsue Ishida 07.06.2026 38min

  Part two of the conversation with Natsue Ishida dives into the intricacies of governance in Japan and how you can come across opportunities to do pro bono work that expand your area of expertise. Don’t miss the beautiful reading of a poem that has had a big impact on Natsue at the end of the episode. If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Head over to Apple Podcasts to leave a review and we’d love it if you would leave us a message here!In this episode you’ll hear:The difference between Chief Legal Officer (CLO) and General Counsel (GC)Managing what’s best for the company and respecting the founder Finding unique ways to contribute to the governance community in Japan and globallyWhat Natsue would say to her younger self Her favourite book and poemAbout NatsueNatsue is a seasoned General Counsel and senior executive with over 20 years of international experience advising senior management, Boards of Directors, and Audit Committees across Asia, North America, and Europe. She brings extensive expertise in legal strategy, IP, compliance, risk management, corporate governance, global subsidiary management, M&A, and data privacy.Her career spans highly regulated industries—including financial services, medical devices, automotive, and gaming—where she has consistently guided organisations through complex regulatory landscapes while shaping strong cultures of compliance and ethical leadership.Natsue is a widely recognised award winning thought leader, deeply committed to advancing excellence within the legal profession.On the weekends, she enjoys rock climbing (shower climbing in the summer). She would like to do more photography (medium format film photo printing), maybe when she retires, if the technology still exists!Connect with NatsueLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theflyingcat/ LinksPart 1: ⁠https://www.catherineoconnelllaw.com/podcast/season-12-ep2-natsue-ishida⁠  Global Council for Responsible AI https://gcrai.ai/ Connect with Catherine LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/oconnellcatherine/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawyeronair
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  Helping Japan Shine: The Personal Mission Driving Natsue Ishida’s Career in Law & Governance 31.05.2026 49min

  Natsue Ishida shares her journey from sociology student to general counsel and executive officer advising boards, across many well known global companies. This is part one of a two part conversation filled with literal lightning moments, unconventional career choices, and profound leadership lessons. You will learn lessons from each stage of Natsue’s career and what it means to be an officer of the law inside an organisation.If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Head over to Apple Podcasts to leave a review and we’d love it if you would leave us a message here!In this episode you’ll hear:How Natsue’s personal mission that has guided her careerThe importance of focusing on the experience you'll get from a jobWhy taking on responsibilities outside your normal expertise builds supporters for legal and complianceHow Natsue changed the trajectory of her career in the moment she said "I'll do it" to a role she wasn’t offered! Her favourite movies and other fun facts About NatsueNatsue is a seasoned General Counsel and senior executive with over 20 years of international experience advising senior management, Boards of Directors, and Audit Committees across Asia, North America, and Europe. She brings extensive expertise in legal strategy, IP, compliance, risk management, corporate governance, global subsidiary management, M&A, and data privacy.Her career spans highly regulated industries—including financial services, medical devices, automotive, and gaming—where she has consistently guided organisations through complex regulatory landscapes while shaping strong cultures of compliance and ethical leadership.Natsue is a widely recognised award winning thought leader, deeply committed to advancing excellence within the legal profession.On the weekends, she enjoys rock climbing (shower climbing in the summer). She would like to do more photography (medium format film photo printing), maybe when she retires, if the technology still exists!Connect with NatsueLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theflyingcat/ LinksTender Bar: https://tabelog.com/en/tokyo/A1301/A130101/13259123/ Roger and Me: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0098213/ In the Name of the Father: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0107207/  Connect with Catherine LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/oconnellcatherine/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawyeronair
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  Turning Blind Spots Into Advantages: How K. Lesli Ligorner Built Her Two Decade Legal Career in Japan and across Asia 26.04.2026 40min

  Welcome to the premier of Season 12! K. Lesli Ligorner is a partner with Morgan Lewis and shares what it takes to build a successful legal career spanning two decades across China and Japan. We hear how Lesli has mastered the art of finding flexibility within rigid statutory frameworks while leading diverse teams across cultures. If you are wondering how you will lead a team in Japan in the future, this is the episode for you.If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Head over to Apple Podcasts to leave a review and we’d love it if you would leave us a message here!In this episode you’ll hear:The high school homestay in Japan that sparked a lifelong love for Asia How blind spots others created in their minds became Lesli's competitive advantageThe nuanced dance of giving instructions across China and Japan teamsHer favourite podcast, book and other fun facts About K. Lesli LigornerLesli Ligorner is a partner with Morgan Lewis and is based in Tokyo, but splits her time between Japan and China. She relocated to Tokyo 2 years ago after spending 18 years on the ground in Beijing and Shanghai. She first came to Japan in high school and lived with host families. She then returned for her junior year of university to study at Kansai Gaidai and graduated from McGill University in Montreal, Quebec with a major in East Asian Studies. Lesli went on to work at Japanese banks in New York City before heading to law school at American University, Washington College of Law. She then worked 3 years as a litigator for the Law Department of the City of New York and then moved to private practice. In fall 2005 the opportunity came up to move to China with her law firm at the time, and her husband raised her hand for her. Six months later they were on a plane to Shanghai and never looked back.Lesli has developed a practice representing western companies in Asia in some of their most sensitive employment matters and investigations and Asian companies with employment and compliance issues in the US and Europe.Connect with Lesli LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/k-lesli-ligorner-asia-employment-investigations/ LinksMarzac 7: https://www.marzac7-nakameguro.com/ 1dL: https://ordinary-inc.com/1dl/ The Loudest Duck by Laura Liswood https://amzn.asia/d/0dSpo08S How to Fail with Elizabeth Day: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/how-to-fail-with-elizabeth-day/id1407451189  Connect with Catherine LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/oconnellcatherine/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawyeronair
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  No JD Required: Breaking Into Law Through Experience, the SQE and Sheer Determination with Mac Curtis 29.03.2026 49min

  Macaulay (Mac) Curtis, is a New Zealand native who has just qualified as a solicitor in England and Wales through the new SQE pathway. He achieved this while working as a legal translator first for Mori Hamada & Matsumoto, then in his own legal translation company. This episode is full of gems for those who are considering taking another step forwards in their legal career. It’s now entirely possible to use real life legal work experience to help you on your way. Listen to hear more!If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Head over to Apple Podcasts to leave a review and we’d love it if you would leave us a message here!In this episode you’ll hear:Why Mac chose legal translation over interpreting and what it’s like to work in a big four firm’s translation departmentThe SQE pathway explained: qualify as a UK solicitor without attending universityWhy firms don't care about your age and what they do care aboutWhat translators must unlearn to become lawyersHis favourite book and other fun facts About MacMacaulay (Mac) is a linguist-turned-lawyer from New Zealand. Highly fluent in Japanese, he qualified as a simultaneous interpreter in Australia before going to work at Mori Hamada & Matsumoto in their in-house translation department. He later started his own legal translation business, working remotely from New Zealand as he lent his expertise to many of Japan's biggest companies and law firms. He recently qualified as a solicitor, and is now back in Japan to open a new chapter of his career as a lawyer in Tokyo.Connect with Mac LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/macaulay-curtis/ LinksHow to win friends and influence people: https://amzn.asia/d/0iqkBUut SQE: https://www.law.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/sqe/ Connect with Catherine LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/oconnellcatherine/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawyeronair
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  Be the conductor of your own law career: Lessons in life, law and leadership with Keiko Uchida 15.03.2026 38min

  What does it take to transform from a technical legal expert into a strategic conductor of organisational change? Keiko Uchida, Head of Legal and Compliance at Roche Diagnostics Japan, shares her journey to leadership from playing the figurative “violin in an orchestra” to becoming “the conductor.”Discover what it means to move from solving one case with 100 pieces of evidence to solving 100 questions with almost none, and why doubling productivity in Japanese companies has become Keiko Uchida’s driving purpose.If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Head over to Apple Podcasts to leave a review and we’d love it if you would leave us a message here!In this episode you’ll hear:The powerful conversation that shifted her entire career trajectoryWhy being a housewife became her greatest strength rather than a setbackHow Keiko is building a regional legal network across APAC Her favourite book and other fun facts About KeikoKeiko Uchida is the Head of Legal & Compliance at Roche Diagnostics K.K., where she sits on the leadership team as a direct report to the CEO and oversees legal affairs, compliance, data privacy, corporate governance, and risk management across the organisation.Since joining Roche in 2022, Keiko has played a pivotal regional leadership role, earning the “Change Maker of the Year 2024” award for APAC in recognition of her impact in building a high-performing, collaborative legal network across the region, as well as driving market-focused partnerships between legal, security, and commercial operations teams. One of her team members was also recognised as VIP of the Year 2024 within Roche Diagnostics Japan — a reflection of her strength as a people leader.Before Roche, Keiko served as Corporate Officer, General Counsel, Chief Compliance Officer, and Data Privacy Officer at AXA General Insurance Co., Ltd., where she led legal and compliance transformation initiatives during a period of organisational change. She previously held senior legal and corporate secretary roles within AXA, and earlier in her career practiced as a lawyer in private practice after completing her legal training in Japan.Keiko’s career is uniquely cross-sector, with earlier professional experience in financial institutions including J.P. Morgan and Shinsei Trust Bank, as well as academic work as an Assistant Professor at a research center of The University of Tokyo. She later returned to the University of Tokyo to complete her J.D., following a Master’s degree in law from Kyoto University.Recognised on the Legal 500 GC Powerlist Japan 2023, a panelist at GC Summit 2024, and co-author of a practical legal handbook on contract law published in 2023, Keiko is known for blending deep legal expertise with organisational leadership and strategic thinking.Her professional passion lies in balancing opportunity and risk while building high-performing organizations, and outside of work she enjoys traveling and exploring new cultures.Connect with KeikoLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keiko-uchida-3bab7a30/ LinksHow to Win Friends and Influence People: https://amzn.asia/d/09azrBtm Connect with Catherine LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/oconnellcatherine/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawyeronair
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  Shape Your Own Mold: How a Turkish Energy Lawyer Found Her Place in Japan with D. Didem Tari 01.03.2026 49min

  What do you do when everyone tells you it's impossible? D. Didem Tari is a Turkish lawyer who refused to let jurisdiction, language barriers, or naysayers stop her from building a legal career in Japan. Now working as a legal advisor at Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO), Didem shares her remarkable journey from 13 years in an Ankara boutique firm to finding her dream role in Tokyo. This is a story about shaping your own mold when you don't fit the typical template and proving that passion combined with persistence can overcome any barrier.If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Head over to Apple Podcasts to leave a review and we’d love it if you would leave us a message here!In this episode you will hear:How witnessing legal injustices at the age of 8 and 13, shaped Didem's decision to become the lawyer her family neededThe "after this, after this" trap that kept Didem in one place for 13 years and how she finally broke free to make her dream come trueWhy the doubts of naysayers were the biggest challengeThe breakthrough moment at a Women in Law Japan event that shifted Didem from thinking "it's possible" to visualising "it's happening"About DidemD. Didem Tarı is a Turkiye-registered lawyer and currently serves as a Legal Advisor at TEPCO’s Overseas Business Office, where she contributes to the company’s international expansion and strategic partnerships.  She joined TEPCO in April 2024, bringing more than 14 years of legal experience across the energy and aviation industries.Prior to joining TEPCO, Didem developed a broad and internationally oriented career at a boutique law firm in Ankara, advising a global portfolio of clientele - from emerging enterprises to large multinational holdings - on complex legal matters.  Her core areas of expertise include energy law (with a particular focus on renewables), aviation law, corporate and commercial law, and cross-border contracts.Admitted to the Ankara Bar in 2009, she holds an LL.M. in Public International Law from Ankara University Faculty of Law.  She is also the author of The Legal Status of the Southern Kurile Islands, a work reflecting her longstanding interest in international legal issues. To further strengthen her decade-long specialisation in aviation, she completed a BB.A. in Aviation Management, integrating legal, technical, and operational perspectives within the field.Didem proudly represented Turkiye in the prestigious Ship for World Youth (SWY) program, and has remained active in international volunteer initiatives, taking on leadership and coordination responsibilities in collaboration with IYEO, the Cabinet Office of Japan, and JICA.In her spare time, she is passionate about scuba diving, Ashtanga yoga, and traveling.Connect with DidemLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/d-didem-tari/ LinksThe Mosque Cafe, Shimokitazawa : http://mosquecoffee.com In the Name of Identity: https://www.amazon.co.jp/-/en/Name-Identity-Violence-Need-Belong/dp/1611453240 European Journal of International Law Podcast: https://www.ejiltalk.org/ejil-the-podcast-page/ Yuyuの日本語のポッドキャストhttps://www.youtube.com/@yuyunihongopodcast Women in Law Japan: https://womeninlawjapan.org /Connect with Catherine LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/oconnellcatherine/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawyeronair
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  Building Your Legal Career with Strategic Insights from Legal Recruiter Aida Wang 15.02.2026 1h 10min

  Aida Wang is a top-billing legal recruiter at Just Legal who specialises in private practice placements for bengoshi (Japan-qualified lawyers). With a unique background as a professional translator and interpreter between English and Mandarin Chinese, Aida brings a fresh perspective on bridging communication gaps - not just between languages, but between lawyers and law firms.Aida shares practical advice on deal sheets, career planning, and why speaking to a recruiter from day one of your legal career journey in Japan can change your career trajectory.If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Head over to Apple Podcasts to leave a review and we’d love it if you would leave us a message here!In this episode you’ll hear:The critical importance of creating and maintaining a deal sheet from day one of your careerWhy you should speak to a recruiter early in your career, not just when you're actively lookingThe biggest misconception about Japanese bengoshi lawyers How Aida helps candidates and clients create compelling stories to help find a perfect matchAbout AidaAida Wang is a Tokyo-based legal recruiter specialising in Bengoshi (Japan-qualified lawyer) searches for private practice, with a particular focus on supporting  associates and counsels as they navigate the critical transition points in their legal careers.Currently a Principal Consultant at Just Legal, Aida works with both Japanese and international law firms, recruiting Japanese Bengoshi and foreign-qualified attorneys across a wide range of practice areas. She is known for her thoughtful, relationship-driven approach and for offering market insight that goes well beyond simply filling roles. In her first quarter at Just Legal, Aida quickly made her mark as a top biller which is a reflection of her proactive mindset, deep preparation, and ability to truly understand both candidates and clients.Before moving into legal recruitment, Aida spent over a decade working as a Chinese–English freelance translator and interpreter, including roles in media, film, and news translation. This earlier career laid the foundation for what has become a defining theme of her professional life: bridging gaps - between languages, cultures, expectations, and ultimately, legal careers. Her background in interpreting gives her a rare ability to listen carefully, read between the lines, and translate what lawyers want into what the market is really asking for.Aida holds a Bachelor’s degree from National Chengchi University in Taiwan, along with a Master’s degree in Interpreting and Translation from the University of Bath in the UK. She has also completed Japanese language studies at Keio University. Having lived and worked in Taiwan, the Bahamas, the United States, the UK, and Japan, she brings a genuinely global perspective to her work. She is a native speaker of Mandarin and English, with business-level Japanese, and regularly supports cross-border legal careers in the Japanese market.Through her conversations with Bengoshi across multiple practice areas, Aida frequently hears one recurring challenge: how to develop clients and bring in work before holding a partner title. This insight shapes much of her advisory work with senior associates who are thinking carefully about long-term career sustainability, visibility, and progression within private practice.Outside of work, Aida enjoys cooking and crafting with her eight-year-old son, a creative counterbalance to her professional life that reflects the same curiosity and care she brings to her career.Connect with AidaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hsinyuaidawang/ Just Legal: https://www.justsearchgroup.com/justlegal/consultants/aida-wang LinksAfternoon Tea: https://www.afternoon-tea.net/ Connect with Catherine LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/oconnellcatherine/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawyeronair
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  Pushing Doors Open: Catherine O'Connell on Strategic Patience, Governance, and Giving Back 12.01.2026 1h

  Guest Host Yoko Oshima leads this episode’s interview with host Catherine O’Connell as Lawyer on Air reaches the milestone of 5 years on air and 100 guests. Catherine shares her remarkable journey from a shy New Zealand teenager to an award-winning lawyer, podcast host, and board member at companies like Toyota and Fujitsu.You will hear about the pivotal moments that shaped her career, and why she believes courage must come before confidence. If you love listening to LOA and want to know more about Catherine, this is the episode for you.If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Head over to Apple Podcasts to leave a review and we’d love it if you would leave us a message here!In this episode you’ll hear:How Catherine's childhood curiosity and shyness coexist with the confidence she's built over decades in JapanThe Japanese lawyers who inspired her career transition and the mentor who saw her potential before she didWhy she's stayed in Japan for 23 years despite initially planning “max two years”, and the concept of "strategic patience"The high-stakes investigation moment when Catherine realised that THIS was why she became a lawyerHer favourite restaurant and other fun facts About CatherineCatherine O’Connell is a bilingual New Zealand lawyer and the Principal & Founder of Catherine O’Connell Law, the first foreign female–founded law firm in Tokyo. An award-winning practitioner, she has been recognised as Foreign Lawyer of the Year (2022), Boutique Law Firm of the Year (2023), and Entrepreneur of the Year (2020) for her leadership and innovation.Catherine served as an Independent Audit & Supervisory Board Member of Toyota Motor Corporation (2023–2025) and currently serves as an Outside Audit & Supervisory Board Member of Fujitsu Limited (since 2022). Through these appointments she became the first non-Japanese female in Japanese corporate history to serve in such roles on these two blue-chip corporate boards. Her governance work is defined by cross-cultural fluency, bilingual communication, and a capacity to translate complex legal, compliance, and risk issues into clear board-level insight.Drawing on more than 20 years’ experience in senior in-house legal counsel roles at Molex, Panasonic, Olympus, Mitsubishi Motors, alongside private practice experience at Hogan Lovells, and Anderson Lloyd, Catherine now advises boards, CEOs, and C-suite executives on governance, cross-border leadership, and boardroom mindset. Her C-suite mentoring programmes help executives understand how boards think and decide, enabling stronger alignment and strategic clarity.Catherine hosts the award-winning Lawyer on Air podcast and co-hosts Jandals in Japan, celebrating cross-border success stories. She is Vice-Chair Emerita of the Australia & New Zealand Chamber of Commerce in Japan, Co-Chair of the Legal Services & IP Committee at the ACCJ, and Past President and Advisory Board Member of Women in Law Japan.Connect with YokoLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yoko-oshima-36a7396/ LinksHotel Indigo Tokyo Shibuya Unpausable play list: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3aCekQmbR0CYMxzdkhzFqN?si=BrfZXnH_Soq8SIazs5M_AQWakanui Restaurant: https://www.wakanui.jp/grill_dining_bar_tokyo/en/index.html Connect with Catherine LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/oconnellcatherine/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawyeronair
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  Don't Stop Believing: One Lawyer's Journey Through Loss, Grief, Leadership, and Gender Equity 21.12.2025 52min

  "I thought you didn't want to be a partner" - Maya Ito heard these stunning words at a meeting to discuss her firm’s view that her lack of career progression at Big Four law firm Nishimura & Asahi, was simply because she had children. Plot spoiler: she's now a partner at that same firm, she’s leading cross-border project finance deals, and all the while, she’s running an almost entirely female team. Maya shares a deeply personal story of utter loss that forever changed how she approaches every single day of her life, reveals the Japanese warrior philosophy that defines her service to clients, and also explains why monthly team lunches replaced late-night drinking sessions. If you are looking up at senior partners wondering how they got there, or simply want to know what it really takes to sustain a career in Big Law while living with no regrets, grab your headphones and get ready to get to know Maya Ito in a way you never have before.If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Head over to Apple Podcasts to leave a review and we’d love it if you would leave us a message here!In this episode you’ll hear:Parental expectations that shaped her legal career and how she overcame themA profound personal loss that became a turning point that guides her actions every dayThe "kagemusha" philosophy of lawyering as a shadow ally How Maya runs her all female team and makes time for her own life tooHer favourite podcasts, books and other fun facts About MayaMaya Ito is a partner at Nishimura & Asahi. She has extensive expertise in cross-border project financing for various natural resources, power projects, and other infrastructure projects. Her experience also extends to areas such as compliance, cross-border financial transactions, cross-border corporate transactions, and other general corporate matters.Maya has extensive experience advising international investors on cross-border renewable energy projects, as well as advising both borrowers and lenders on financing for renewable energy projects in Japan. She previously worked in the cross-border project finance team of a Japanese megabank, handling matters relating to natural resources, power and energy, and infrastructure. Maya has also provided banks, financial institutions, and other corporate clients, most of which operate their businesses globally, with compliance and regulatory advice, as well as advice on a variety of governance matters. She is actively involved in D&I projects aimed at promoting the active participation of women, and has organized numerous D&I seminars and other similar events for corporations. She is also actively involved in Climate Change related projects and has organized Climate Change seminars and events.In her free time Maya likes to play golf and she usually plays golf with her colleagues, clients and her family. Maya also has two cute toy poodles (Tarao and Ikura).  The poodles’ names come from a famous Japanese Anime, “Sazae-san” and they give Maya a sense of “iyashi” (癒し) meaning “soothing and solace”.Connect with Maya LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maya-ito-278b1863/ LinksKagemusha: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kagemusha Ikikata Book: https://amzn.asia/d/ew7DMGc 　　Connect with Catherine LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/oconnellcatherine/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawyeronair
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  From Law as “Plan B” to Finding Peace: Embracing Ambiguity as a Global In-House Counsel in Japan with Liting Cong 14.12.2025 44min

  Liting Cong is Legal Counsel at ASICS, one of Japan’s most successful sportswear companies. Liting shares her journey through the lens of Japanese aesthetics, particularly the concept of wabi-sabi or embracing imperfection, impermanence, and incompleteness. If you're considering an in-house career in Japan, curious about human-centric AI, or looking for wisdom on embracing life's uncertainties, you will enjoy the metaphor Liting shares about building a beautiful garden. More on that inside this episode! If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Head over to Apple Podcasts to leave a review and we’d love it if you would leave us a message here!In this episode you’ll hear:How Japanese martial arts and dance became a source of peace and resilience during challenging timesThe evolution of in-house counsel roles beyond gatekeeping and contract reviewPractical strategies for unlearning perfectionism that Liting uses herself at workWhy ideation is a lawyer's secret weapon in the age of AILiting’s favourite book and other fun facts About LitingLiting Cong is a Legal Counsel at ASICS Corporation, where she leads global privacy, AI governance, and digital initiatives in the Legal Department. She graduated from Grinnell College in 2011, and University of Toronto Faculty of Law in 2014. She was admitted to the bar in Ontario in 2015, and in New York in 2019. Before relocating to Japan, Liting gained diverse international experience at King & Wood in Shanghai, Shin & Kim in Seoul, and Stikeman & Elliott in Toronto, and started her own practice as a sole practitioner in Toronto.In addition to her legal credentials, Liting is a data protection professional with multiple certifications from the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP) for European privacy (CIPP/E), privacy program management (CIPM), and artificial intelligence governance (AIGP). With over a decade of experience living and working in Canada and Japan, Liting brings not only legal expertise but also fluency in the languages--English, Chinese, and Japanese--and a deep understanding of cross-cultural business environments. In 2018, as an avid fan of Japanese arts and culture since childhood, Liting relocated to Japan. She joined Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation in Osaka as Legal Counsel, and later SymBio Pharmaceuticals Limited in Tokyo as Legal Manager.In 2023, Liting joined ASICS Corporation in its global headquarters in Kobe. She now serves as the lead in global privacy and AI governance and managing ASICS’ digital initiatives across the globe. Liting lives in Osaka with her husband and a cat who enjoys making cameos in Teams calls and supervising all her legal work.  Connect with LitingLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/litingcong/ LinksGokan: https://patisserie-gokan.co.jp/item/ The Cultural Map by Erin Meyer https://amzn.asia/d/9w9muCI Connect with Catherine LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/oconnellcatherine/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawyeronair
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  Small Team, Big Canvas: Taking the Golden Ticket to In-House Legal Counsel Success at Airbnb with Yu Watanabe 30.11.2025 1h 6min

  Yu Watanabe is General Counsel at Airbnb Japan, where he has spent over 10 years building one of the most respected in-house legal teams in the country. From training at Freshfields to navigating the world of tech startups at DeNA, and ultimately joining Airbnb, Yu's career embodies the power of taking calculated risks and listening to the right mentors. This episode is rich with wisdom about mentorship, community involvement, and finding success by focusing completely on serving your clients. If you are wondering how Yu stands out as such a star in the world of Tokyo Law, this is the episode for you.If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Head over to Apple Podcasts to leave a review and we’d love it if you would leave us a message here!In this episode you’ll hear:How a childhood visit to a law firm in Osaka inspired Yu to pursue law and become a "superhero" helping peopleThe critical decision to join Airbnb Japan in 2015 when almost everyone advised against itWhy Yu approaches legal work with hospitality at its core The transformative moment in Yu’s career and why someone is always watching your effortHis favourite book and other fun facts About YuYuichiro Watanabe is a Director of the Japan In‑House Lawyers Association (JILA) while taking a role of Lead Counsel at Airbnb Japan, and since January 2025 serves as a board director of Airbnb Japan K.K. He joined Airbnb in 2015 as the company’s third lawyer in Asia, following roles with Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer and DeNA. Recognized with eight honors across six consecutive years at the ALB Japan Law Awards in his thirties, including being the youngest recipient of In‑House Lawyer of the Year, Yu has also led a team named Diversity & Inclusion: In‑House Team of the Year at the Chambers Asia‑Pacific and Greater China Region Awards 2024 and has been selected for The Legal 500 GC Powerlist: Japan. He also contributes to policy and standards work through committees at Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, the Digital Agency, and ISO/TC262 for risk management. He has walked a non-traditional career path in Japan, where in-house lawyers were still rare at the time. Through various failures and struggles within organizations, he has gained lessons that shaped his professional journey — and he carries a deep commitment to turning those personal setbacks into guidance for others. Admitted to the Japan Bar in 2009, he holds a J.D. from the School of Law at the University of Tokyo, and is the author of 「リーガルリスクマネジメントの教科書」 (The Textbook of Legal Risk Management, Nihon Kajoshuppan, 2023) and 「組織内弁護士の教科書」 (The Textbook for In-House Lawyers, forthcoming, Nihon Kajoshuppan, October 2025). Including these and his earlier two publications, his four-volume series has achieved an extraordinary circulation of 15,000 copies in Japan.In his personal life, he enjoys traditional Kabuki theatre and traveling.Connect with YuLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wtnby/ LinksHotel New Otani https://www.newotani.co.jp/en/tokyo/  JILA: https://jila.jp/   Blog: https://inhouselaw.org/inhouse/ Peter Thiel, Zero to One : https://amzn.asia/d/43FV5e7 Connect with Catherine LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/oconnellcatherine/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawyeronair
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  The Unexpected Path to General Counsel: Sayaka Matsui on Curiosity, Mentorship and Unlearning Self Criticism 16.11.2025 50min

  Sayaka Matsui is General Counsel and Representative Executive Officer at Unilever Japan. Sayaka shares how she unlearned something that she thought was helping her to do better. When she did that amazing things happened and she reached new career heights as well as achieving personal goals too. If you are wondering if your career path is “on track” or you are struggling with self criticism, this episode is for you!If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Head over to Apple Podcasts to leave a review and we’d love it if you would leave us a message here!In this episode you’ll hear:How reading a children's story-book version of Merchant of Venice at age 10 sparked Sayaka's interest in lawSayaka’s transition from private practice to corporate planning and eventually to General CounselThe transformative impact of spending two years in the United States How Sayaka unlearned her habit of nightly self-criticism and embraced vulnerability About SayakaSayaka Matsui is the Representative Executive Officer and General Counsel of Unilever Japan Holdings G.K., where she leads legal, compliance, and risk management for one of the world’s most recognised global brands.Before joining Unilever in 2019, she held legal roles at Credit Saison, Waseda Legal Commons Law Office, Daizawa Law Office, and Nagashima Ohno & Tsunematsu. Sayaka also spent a year as a Visiting Scholar at the University of California, Berkeley, broadening her global perspective on law and social impact.She is deeply committed to the next generation of legal talent, providing programs to law schools and judicial apprentices to promote understanding of in-house legal work, and in 2025, she was appointed as a member of MEXT’s advisory committee on law schools.Sayaka holds a J.D. (Professional) and LL.B. from Waseda University.In her spare time, she loves watching international TV dramas and learning foreign languages.Connect with SayakaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sayaka-matsui-881a61188/ Connect with Catherine LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/oconnellcatherine/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawyeronair
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  Choosing Fun over FOMO: Detouring from the senior associate track to draft new legislation for Japan with Midori Yamaguchi 03.11.2025 54min

  Midori Yamaguchi is a Senior Associate at Mori Hamada & Matsumoto in Tokyo whose career spans Singapore, the US, and Japan. We hear about her two-year secondment to METI (Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry), where she was the only lawyer on the legislation drafting team where she helped create Japan's new pre-insolvency regime - literally dreaming about the law every night. If you're contemplating a step off the well trodden career path of private practice, and think it’s not possible to come back on track, or if you are seeking inspiration, this episode is for you.If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Head over to Apple Podcasts to leave a review and we’d love it if you would leave us a message here!In this episode you’ll hear:How Midori's father shaped her values of fairness and honestyThe pivotal role of taking opportunities based on enjoyment rather than fearPowerful lessons from working across Singapore, the US, and JapanPractical strategies for building visibility in Japan's humble culture, including why putting your skills on display, isn't self-promotion About MidoriMidori Yamaguchi is a Senior Associate at Mori Hamada & Matsumoto in Tokyo, where she specialises in restructuring and insolvency as well as dispute resolution. She is qualified in both Japan and New York.Her practice has a strong cross-border focus: she has worked in the firm’s Singapore office, spent time at a U.S. law firm, and completed an LL.M. at New York University. Most recently, she concluded a secondment at Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, where she was involved in drafting legislation to introduce a new pre-insolvency regime.Recognised in Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in Japan for Arbitration and Mediation in 2022, she is regarded as a rising expert in international legal matters.She actively contributes to the international restructuring and insolvency community through her regular publications and involvement with leading global organisations, including INSOL International as an INSOL Fellow, the International Insolvency Institute (III) as a NextGen member, the International Women’s Insolvency & Restructuring Confederation (IWIRC), the Insolvency Section of the International Bar Association (IBA), and the American Bankruptcy Institute (ABI).She has an LL.B. from Hitotsubashi University and J.D. from Hitotsubashi Law School.Outside of work, she enjoys traveling abroad, scuba diving, and exploring Tokyo’s traditional public bathhouses.Connect with MidoriLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/midori-yamaguchi-3364a3222/  Firm: https://www.morihamada.com/en/people/midori-yamaguchiLinksGinza Music Bar: https://ginzamusicbar.com/ METI, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry: https://www.meti.go.jp/english/ Connect with Catherine LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/oconnellcatherine/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawyeronair