Interests
Interests
Ironmans, 3-Day Meditations, Writing Books
What do Ironmans, 3-day meditations, writing books have in common? Ironmans, 3-day meditations, writing books have a lot in common. Ironmans take most of what your body can handle. Three day meditation trips take all of what your mind can handle. During either of those, you want to quit, cry, stop; but, something compels you…
Read MoreWhy Write a Book? Top Ten Reasons
Why write a book? Here are my top ten reasons. Don’t think for one second my books are best sellers, or that I’m trying to get famous. I’m not and I don’t care about either of those reasons. I wouldn’t complain if I hit the WSJ best-seller list one day, but that’s not the…
Read MoreCommunication Skills: A Method for Success
Advancing my Communication Skills with a Communication Class at Stanford Communication is essential. It is our human nature to be social. We communicate every single minute of our lives. It can be from board meetings, family reunions, friendships to our inner dialogues. We literally wouldn’t be able to navigate our society without communication. You must…
Read MoreCommunication Tips from Matt Abrahams
Improve Your Communication Skills With Us I’ve had the privilege to learn, read, and attend various courses for self-improvement. Now, I want to share them with you. I want to begin by acknowledging Matt Abrahams and his contributions to my understanding and practice of communication. Matt is the author of the book: Speaking Up Without…
Read MoreDue Diligence and Questions Checklist For Potential VC Investors
Potential VC Investor Due Diligence and Questions Below you will find a list of our due diligence and questions by category for my book Navigate to the Lighthouse: Value Proposition: Key questions What are the biggest pain points experienced and what value propositions are implied? By ecosystem stakeholders, e.g. merchants, consumers, card networks, banks, etc.…
Read MoreBusiness Negotiation
Communication Class with Jessica Notini Jessica Notini, negotiation coach, breaks down business negotiation into 3 functions: the process, relationship building and the negotiation/transaction. Too often, negotiators jump into negotiation mode without even having established some type of guard rails. The process sets the ground rules and sets expectations on how to work smoothly together, relationship building…
Read MoreFinding Soul, From Silicon Valley to Africa: A Travel Memoir
Title: Finding Soul, From Silicon Valley to Africa: A Travel Memoir and Personal Journey Through Twenty Countries in Africa Headline: Go on a journey to Africa, and learn about the sights, sounds, and smells of the continent. Not just the outer journey, but you’ll go on an inner one as well. Let the book change…
Read MoreNational Service, Part 3: Austria, Rwanda, and the American Potential
Part 3: National Service – American Potential If you read Part 1 and Part 2 of my series on national service, you know I believe it can heal the open wounds of divisiveness that are tearing our country apart. Just as military service is a great equalizer, bringing together individuals from disparate backgrounds on a common…
Read MoreNational Service: Instilling Pride, Purpose and Proficiency
National Service: Cultivating Unity, Meaning, and Skills I have been giving a lot of thought lately to the concept of national service. I realized that national service was a great way to cultivate unity and belonging (pride), finding a sense of meaning (purpose), and getting trained in useful skills (proficiency.) The rifts that have formed…
Read MoreIntroducing National Service as a Way to Give Back & Unify
National Service – Giving Back and Unifying Now more than ever, cultivating a sense of unity, pride and empowerment is of vital importance. Citizens are calling for national service programs, and in CA-03, we know they stand to benefit us too. They can provide skills-training, new experiences mid career, and a way to give back…
Read MoreRoad Trip Across the Southwest
I never pass up the chance for a good road trip. So after picking up my car in California in August, 2021, I figured it would be a good chance to do a little exploring. I took a road trip across the southwest of the USA. Opting for a southern route across the USA, I…
Read MoreMission Training for Your Startup at Echelon Front FTX
Mission Training for Your Startup I took a few days in August to join Echelon Front’s FTX 3-day training where the members put into practice Echelon Front principles. I will put these principles into practice as mission training for your startup. Led by Leif Babin and JP Dinnel, we walked — sometimes ran — through…
Read MoreLeadership Principles with the McChrystal Group
Leadership Principles and Building Resilient Teams with the McChrystal Group Over the last few months, I’ve been studying leadership. I’ve learned a lot from retired Army General Stan McChrystal, and author, podcaster and former Navy SEAL Jocko (more on him soon.) As a result, I’ve gained deep respect for their military achievements, leadership skills, and…
Read MoreLearn Jocko’s Leadership Skills and Apply to Your Startup
Jocko’s Leadership Skills Training Course Humility. Balance. Ownership. Teamwork. According to Jocko, these are the four attributes that make a great leader. He learned that at the Battle of Ramadi in Iraq. Now, he shares it with others, so you can learn Jocko’s leadership skills. This is particularly important for entrepreneurs following our KDAlive Entrepreneur…
Read MoreFuel For Ultimate Well-Being
Fuel for Ultimate Well-Being Ultimate well-being relies on the food you eat throughout the day. I’ll be honest. I am terrible at living; you know, the day-to-day. That’s because I spent almost my entire life travelling, working like a fiend, and eating out with people. Then the pandemic hit and SMACK! I had to go…
Read MoreHow PickFu Helped Me: It Can Help Your Book Title and Cover Decisions
How PickFu Helped Me: It Can Help Your Book Title and Cover Decisions PickFu helped me to determine my title and cover by surveying over 100 users. Are you pulling your hair out because you don’t know what cover or title to use for your book? That’s because, your friend says X but you think…
Read MoreTry Zen Sports
Try Zen Sports Zen Sports combine your full physical, mental, and emotional energy into a sport. Sick of going to the gym? Feel like it’s a job? Don’t have enough time to meditate, workout, and socialize? So find a Zen sport and do it with friends. When you combine your full physical, mental, and emotional…
Read MoreDifferent Types of Conversations: Casual, Intentful, and Difficult
Different Types of Conversations: Casual, Intentful, and Difficult Conversations Learn how to have different types of conversations that can affect your well-being. Earlier we reflected on our social life and who we spent time with. The strength of your relationships relies on the ability to communicate. So that means it affects your well-being. Isn’t that…
Read MorePolitics and Happiness: Don’t Let Politics Derail Your Happiness
Don’t Let Politics Derail Your Happiness The intersection of politics and happiness can affect your well-being. Don’t let it. You’re enjoying some much-needed social interaction after a long quarantine. Everything’s going great until somebody brings up politics—blame or praise of a certain elected official, perhaps, or a brazen view on sensitive issues. Suddenly your blood…
Read MoreThe Science of Spirituality and Spiritual Well-Being
The Science of Spirituality KDAlive preaches spirituality as a core tenet of Ultimate Well-Being. “How can I believe something I can’t prove? you ask yourself. “How can I quell my fears and anxieties?” You are up late at night. You can’t sleep with life’s big questions floating through your head. Unlike measuring nutrition or tracking…
Read MoreThe Pursuit of Happiness, Together
The Pursuit of Happiness The pursuit of happiness, together, for yourself and those around you, is what America’s independence means to me. The pursuit of happiness isn’t created in solitude; it’s created together. That should be the basis for our communities. It also impacts the social component of your Ultimate Well-Being. Many think that his/her…
Read MoreEmplasticity: Layers of Empathy
Emplasticity: Three Layers of Empathy Empathy, we’ve all heard, “Put yourself in another’s shoes.” But do we ever really do this? I know I haven’t. For many years I was a tourist, just looking out the window as the car drives by impoverished places, taking pictures of the situation only to go back to the…
Read MoreTop Ten Ways to Make a Better World Post Covid-19
Top Ten Ways to Make a Better World Post Covid-19 How can the Covid-19 pandemic possibly make a better world in the future? Last week we talked about how the Covid-19 pandemic has already caused changes in the American workplace and the future of working from home. This week, we want to talk about how…
Read MoreBlack Lives Matter (BLM), Racism, and Ultimate Well-Being
Black Lives Matter (BLM), Racism, and Ultimate Well-Being Recognize and unlearn the racism that lies within you and Black Lives Matter (BLM) “We are living in a racism pandemic.” Sandra L. Shullman, PhD, president of the American Psychological Association We cannot talk about well-being without addressing Black Lives Matter (BLM). The events of the past…
Read MoreSpeak with Wisdom and Intent
Speak with Wisdom and Intent Communication is essential. I recently went to a workshop in Spirit Rock that helped me articulate myself with sageness and purpose. This knowledge emerged from the spiritual writer Donald Rothberg who taught me the value of communication with intent. Communication can affect your well-being, but did anyone ever tell you how…
Read MoreIf You are So Smart, Why aren’t You Happy?
If You are So Smart, Why aren’t You Happy? Meet Raj Raghunathan who has studied happiness for two decades at the University of Texas, Austin. See our video chat here. https://youtu.be/pzhAAilHDF0 I was recently in Costa Rica – right when COVID19 hit in Central America – at the University of Peace Centre funded by the…
Read MoreLearn the Power of Improvisation
Learn the Power of Improvisation I took an Improvisation class at Stanford University to learn how to better communicate with friends, family, and colleagues. I learned a few things: a framework of communication, how to tell a story, and fully be in the moment Overview: Take a framework of how to discuss things into every…
Read MoreLearn from Oprah Winfrey: Be the Highest and Truest Form of Yourself
Learn from Oprah Winfrey: Be the Highest and Truest Form of Yourself Learn from Oprah Winfrey and her formula for wellness Key Take-Aways to learn from Oprah Winfrey: Oprah’s wellness formula is mind + body + spirit. Mind = Emotions, learning and work Body = Nutrition and movement Spirit = purpose and relationships Focus on…
Read MoreConnecting Authentically with Great Conversations
Connecting Authentically with Great Conversations Learn how to connect quickly and have meaningful conversations Do you know how to have engaging conversations that lead to meaningful interactions, even with a stranger? Hi, I’m Clarence! I’m one of the new contributors to KDAlive. Recently I went to a workshop called the Art of Charm. The AoC is…
Read MoreThe Future of Work is Remote
The Future of Work is Remote No need to monkey around a cube any longer; technological advancement and institutional encouragement forces a false choice to fade away. If you have dreamed of sailing away to a faraway island where the cocktails flow freely and the seaside villas are cheaper than your fifth-floor walk-up, but hesitate…
Read MoreHow to Break Into Technology
How to Break Into Technology It’s possible to have no college degrees and break-in “Fake it until you make it” Learn some hard skills that are easily hireable Don’t: Compare, Envy, be careful not to be something else someone wants/needs Tell people what they want to hear We are well into the digital age, and…
Read MoreHow to Give Feedback Like a Buddha
How to Give Feedback Like a Buddha Essential ways to give feedback to a friend, colleague, or family member. The Zen Center in San Francisco offers skills-based classes in communication and personal development. I highly recommend these. Develop confidence through an understanding of giving and receiving feedback through a Buddhist lens. “Learn to take the…
Read MoreLet’s Take Back Christmas In America
Let’s Change What Christmas Means In America Christmas does anything but make people happy and feel connected Until we change Christmas in America, let’s wish each other Merry Chinamas! If you agree with this article, please share it with 3 people. “Get in the Christmas spirit!” People say this to me all the time. To…
Read More3 Day Vipassana Review in Canada
3-Day Vipassana Retreat in Canada Sometimes, one needs a retreat to reset Most Meaningful Experience: Getting back into the process I just finished a 3-day vipassana retreat at a nursing home turned Vipassana center in Youngstown, Canada. My original vipassana post is here. This place is a very modern facility, unusual for a vipassana center,…
Read MoreWant to Write a Book? Here’s How.
Want to Write a Book? Here is How. I visited Kauai Writer’s Conference and learned from some amazing authors. Most Meaningful Experience: Hearing established authors speak about his/her own experience inspired me to do more and push through the process. So you have always wanted to write a book, and you don’t have >$100k to…
Read MoreVipassana: If You Meet the Buddha, Kill Him
Vipassana: If You Meet the Buddha, Kill Him This is an account of my first 10 day silent meditation retreat in Yangon, Myanmar Most Meaningful Experience: All of it. Unfortunately, I only had a few of my original notes – this is my best effort to account for a transformational experience. I have posted a…
Read MoreMy Experience in Kakuma Refugee Camp
My Experience in a Refugee Camp in Kakuma Kakuma is a small city of 200k people where displaced people want to create opportunities through entrepreneurship by building companies Most Meaningful Experience: Understanding that refugee camps are like cities within themselves, filled with people who want to create a better life through business opportunities. Situated in…
Read MoreWhat Is it Like to Climb Mt. Kilimanjaro
What Is it Like to Climb Mt. Kilimanjaro The last leg was brutal and mountain sickness is real Most Meaningful Experience: Jeremy’s helping hand to make sure I didn’t fall down the mountain After a few days on my own in Nairobi, my buddy Jeremy flew into the Kenyan capital and we spent time exploring…
Read MoreWhat I Discovered in Alaska: Juneau and Seward
What I Discovered in Alaska Encountering the struggles with climate change Most Meaningful Experience: Hearing others speak about universal basic income If you have 1 minute to fill out 3 questions, please take my survey here! Part One: Juneau They say that the United States is such a big and diverse place that visiting…
Read MoreWhat I learned Visiting Albuquerque, New Mexico
New Mexico: Great Food, Diverse Culture, Outdoor Mecca Eating the Green Chili and Hiking Domingo Baca were my highlights I imagine you have to be tough to survive New Mexico’s heat, rugged landscapes, and rebellious culture. So on a recent visit to Albuquerque, I decided to find out what this southwestern state was all about.…
Read MoreThe Emerging Startup Scene in the “Lone Star State”
Learn About the Emerging Startup Scene in Texas. Texas has access to technical universities and large corporates making this fertile ground for startup success Most Meaningful Experience: Meeting new friends and contacts in Texas When I signed up for a startup bus tour of three Texan cities, I did so primarily to gain an insight…
Read MoreTrekking to Everest Base Camp Day 5 – Descent
Mount Everest: Trekking from Day 5 to Descent Reaching the Summit with Friends was our Pinnacle Check out the first 4 days here. https://kdalive.com/trekking-to-mount-everest-base-camp/ Day 5: Tengboche to Dingboche That night it dropped to around -15 degrees C and I had my sleeping bag zipped over my face, with only my mouth exposed to breathe.…
Read MoreBangladesh: An Unexplored Country of Cuisine, Commerce, and Cricket
Bangladesh: An Unexplored Country of Cuisine, Commerce, and Cricket Being hosted by E-generation was an amazing experience and taught us much about the local culture. Most Exciting Experience: Playing cricket with the team! Other meaningful experiences: – Celebrating the Day of Language – Experiencing the Muslim prayer time as a calming and meditative action…
Read MoreTrekking to Mount Everest Base Camp Days 1-4
Mt Everest Base Camp: Trekking from Day 1 to Day 4 Over time we could withstand the cold and conquer the mountain Most meaningful experience: Becoming one with our mountainous environment and the altitude is a powerful experience and I think why so many people strive to reach the summit. It is a feeling that…
Read MoreTop 10 Things I Learned Road Tripping Across the Northern Part of the USA
Top 10 Things I Learned RoadTripping Across the USA To Be An American is a Broad Definition Everyone should travel across the USA to experience our country, to have a better understanding of it. When it came time for me to make my move to San Francisco in the summer of 2018, my friend Clarence…
Read MoreDiscover the Multi-Pronged Wellness Approach of Wim Hof, the Iceman
Discover the Multi-Pronged Wellness Approach of Wim Hof, Iceman Breathe, Cold, and Fasting is the way to reduce stress and stay mindful Key takeaways from my Iceman retreat: Intermittent fasting helps with mental clarity, fat burning, and hormonal health. Deep breathing can help to oxygenate your body and warm it up, enhancing your performance…
Read More10 Things I Learned from the WimHoff Method
Top 10 Things I Learned from WimHof Breathe, Cold, and Fasting is the way to reduce stress and stay mindful Know as the “Iceman”, Wim Hof is spreading his methodology of breathing, cold, and focus around the world. Here are 10 things I learned from a weekend retreat. More in depth here. https://kdalive.com/discovering-the-multi-pronged-wellness-approach-of-wim-hof-the-iceman/ 1. Meditation…
Read MoreBhutan and Gross National Happiness in Action
Bhutan and Gross National Happiness Learn about how the Bhutanese government measures progress through Gross National Happiness (GNH) The real reason I wanted to go to Bhutan was to investigate the “Land of Happiness” after reading about the government policies that try to maximize this for their people. I thought this was intriguing…
Read MoreHow to find Adventure in Japan?
How To Find Adventure In Japan? Get insider access to experiences in Japan with my friend Jordan. There are so many things to do in Japan and clubs to be part of. Before you go check out some of the top group trips like www.tokyogaijins.com and https://www.tokyosnowclub.com/. My good friend Jordan has a new business…
Read MoreWorking on Political Campaign in the Thumb of Michigan
Working on Political Campaign in the Thumb of Michigan Everyone should help on a political campaign to get the experience. The most fun I’ve had in the last 10 years is helping my friend run his political campaign. Giving all that I’ve done, you wouldn’t think that, would’ya? You hear,’ Politics is evil. Politics is…
Read MoreThe Best Ice Cream in Japan
The Best Ice Cream In Japan Treat yourself to ice cream; here’s my top 3 recommended ice cream shops. While the world fights over who invented ice-cream – Victorians or Chinese, the Japanese have mastered the art, like they have most food. The first thing you notice in an ice cream saloon is flavors and…
Read MoreHow to Make Okonomiyaki
How To Make Okonomiyaki The famous Japanese pancake, this is Itoh-san’s Okonomiyaki recipe. My friend of over 15 years – Itoh-san – is an Okonomiyaki cooking master. I love his distinctive cooking style. In fact, he has raised the level of okonomiyaki to such heights that I could never settle for the okonomiyaki you find…
Read MoreKaiseki Tasting in Japan
Kaiseki Tasting In Japan Learn about Kaiseki in Japanese culture + four hot spots to try Kaiseki. Kaiseki or kaiseki-yori is a Japanese word that roughly translates to a dish that appeases hunger and warms the stomach. Broadly categorized into court, samurai, temple, and tea ceremony cuisines, Kaiseki has two main styles; the banquet for…
Read MoreOBento – Japanese Lunch Boxes
Obento – Japanese Lunch Boxes When I’m traveling in Japan, I like to taste-test the Bento lunch boxes. Bento lunch boxes are just as important to the Japanese and Asian culinary worlds as chopsticks are. Named after the Japanese word bento which roughly translates to “convenient,” these boxes were used as early as the 5th…
Read MoreTanTan (DanDan) Mien
TanTan (DanDan) Mien TantanMian is the Japanese adaptation of the Chinese DanDanMian, a dish of noodles seasoned by a spicy sauce made from sesame paste and hot chili oil. In old times, street hawkers used a carrying pole called Dandan and sold the noodles to passerbys; hence the name dandan. Unlike its Chinese counterpart that…
Read MoreFresh Uni in Tokyo
Fresh Uni In Tokyo I put my foodie skills to work so that I can share different types of Japanese Uni. Uni is the Japanese word for sea urchin, or more specifically, a sea urchin’s gonads and few naturally occurring ingredients offer the luxuriant texture and rich flavor Uni supplies. Dishes taste better with Uni,…
Read MoreOkinawan Cuisine
Okinawa Cuisine My experiences with Goya champuru, Rafute, soba noodles, Tofuyo, Mimiga in Okinawa Okinawa is Japan’s southernmost prefecture. Owing to its location, it has a complex history that has influenced its cuisine. The Okinawan cuisine is meat-based (specifically, pork) although it features a lot of herbs, tropical vegetables, fruits, and spices. Here are some…
Read MoreMy Top Izakayas in Tokyo
My Top Izakayas In Tokyo My 5 top places to experience an entertaining, generous and fulfilling Izakaya Izakaya is Japanese word for pubs but it literally means stay, drink, room. It describes an informal way of dining, snacking, pubbing and having fun. Surrounded by your colleagues, friends and even strangers, enjoy the izakaya experience with…
Read MoreRamen in Japan
Ramen In Japan Understanding the type of Ramen can be a little confusing, so here’s a little guide. Ramen is a legendary dish in Japan. Adapted from neighboring China, Japanese Ramen noodles have become a cultural icon of Japan and found a niche in the hearts of people. If there’s one thing in Tokyo that…
Read MoreOkonomiyaki – The Japanese Pancake
Okonomiyaki – The Japanese Pancake My input on finding okonomiyaki around Japan Okonomiyaki is one of the most famous Japanese dishes. Okonomiyaki is the name for ‘Japanese pancake’ or ‘Japanese pizza’ and is a mix of thinly shredded cabbage lightly sautéed in a batter. You can choose to top it with assorted vegetables, seafood, or…
Read MoreWould You Like to Shabu-Shabu?
Would You LIke To Shabu-Shabu? Shabu Shabu, or Japanese hot pot with a burst of flavors, is a popular family go-to meal that really satisfies. You can go for just pork or beef, or both. Shabu-Shabu conveys the sound of ‘swish-swish’ – just a few swishes in the pot and it’s ready to serve! The…
Read MoreTeppanyaki in Tokyo
Teppanyaki In Tokyo One of my favorite Tokyo restaurants and its Teppanyaki Teppanyaki Teppan means Hotplate or Iron griddle, while Yaki means grilled, broiled or pan-fried. So Teppanyaki is an assortment of food displayed on a hotplate/griddle and served right in front of you. My Top 3 Destinations in Tokyo #1 Ginza Steak Tokyo To celebrate…
Read MoreThe Best Yakitori in Tokyo
The Bset Yakitori In Tokyo Some of my preferred yakitori joints Yakitori (焼き鳥) is grilled skewered chicken mixed with a Teriyaki-like sauce. It is a quintessential Japanese soul food or grilled chicken skewers which is a culinary exploration of the entire bird from neck to tail. The yakitori dish is cheap and cheerful and is…
Read MoreLearn About, Make, and Eat Sushi in Tokyo
Learn About, Make, and Eat Sushi In Tokyo Interesting history about sushi + my favorite sushi restaurants in Tokyo Easily Japan’s most famous dish, sushi is one of the most amazing yet delicious food in the world, and although for most the thought of eating raw fish is cringe-worthy, sushi is sure to change that…
Read MoreUnagi / Anago in Tokyo
Unahi / Anago in Tokyo My experience of enjoying Unagi with good company and great conversation Unagi is an extremely expensive delicacy which is famous for not only its flavor but for its stamina-giving properties. Traditionally, it’s eaten in the hottest periods of summer on the day of the “Ox” to provide strength and vitality…
Read More10 things I Learned at the Science of Happiness Retreat
Going forward, I’ll be writing more about Well-Being and the intersection of well-being and travel. At the start of May, I spent a long weekend at Multiversity 1440 the Science of Happiness gathering, which was being held in partnership with 1440 Multiversity at UC Berkeley Greater Good Science Center. They have a beautiful college campus…
Read MoreTonkatsu and Gyukatsu – Fried Pork and Beef in Tokyo
Tonkatsu and Gyukatsu – Fried Pork and Beef in Tokyo All about tonkatsu, a Japanese pork filet, and gyukatsu, a beef dish Tonkatsu is a Japanese dish of pork filet which is breaded with panko breadcrumbs, deep fried then served with a dark, savory tonkatsu sauce with shredded green cabbage. Ton refers to pig/pork, and…
Read MoreEnlightenment in the Kathmandu Valley
Wellbeing insights from Kathmandu, Nepal: • Understanding Nepalese Culture: Meeting truly genuine and humble people who do their best and stay happy on the journey. • Entrepreneurship: Focusing on the environment and betterment for all. • Perspective: Hearing about the caste system and realizing how lucky we are in the USA to have an equal…
Read MoreRay Kroc Stole the Big Mac Sauce Recipe
Ray Kroc Stole the Big Mac Sauce Recipe The founder of Mcdonalds, Ray Kroc, knocked off the Big Mac Recipe at Jalama Beach. I went to Jalama Beach on a drive to Los Angeles. There I found the story of how Ray Kroc knocked off the Big Mac sauce Recipe. Click to rate this…
Read MoreGhana: Accra and Teaching at Meltwater
Exploring around Accra and Teaching Accra has a great scene of music, bars, and food Most Meaningful Experience: The entrepreneurs I worked with were driven by creating jobs, solving local problems, and making a better Africa. That left a lasting imprint on me. The first thing that struck me when crossing into Ghana at its…
Read MoreBorneo: One of the Best Dive Spots, left in the World
Bornea and Sipadan is One of the Best Dive Spots Diving in Sipadan is one of the last beautiful tropical places remaining Most meaningful experience: Diving in Sipadan, one of the best dive sites in the world. Exploring the island of Mabul where people lived basically and still enjoyed life. Diving the marine-filled waters of…
Read MoreWhat I learned at Burning Man + 2 Dope Videos
Top 10 things I learned at Burning Man (with 2 Dope Videos) One piece of advice I got before I left for Burning Man was: “You can get what you want out of it, so decide what you want before you go.” But I didn’t really know what I could get out of it until…
Read MoreJapan Food Blog: EatInTokyo
Japan Food Blog: Eat In Tokyo My blog for food and restaurants from when I lived in Japan http://www.eatintokyo.com While I lived in Japan from 2014-2016, I was able to eat at a lot of different restaurants. This was because my colleague, Yoda-san, and I had a business expense account for clients. So we blogged…
Read MoreTop 10 Vipassana Takeaways & Original Vipassana
Top 10 Vipassana Takeaways Sometimes, one needs a retreat to reset Please see the original vipassana here! Vipassana: If You Meet the Buddha, Kill Him How You react to external stimuli is the most important thing in life Bringing yourself back to breathe and in the moment. Anxiety is self-induced, wants to create anxieties. Thinking…
Read MoreKurtisms
7. Salary (Nov. 11th, 2007) Everyone gets a base; the rest is just a bonus. 8. Startup Exits (Nov. 11th, 2007) Startup Success seems to be 50% hard work, 50% intelligence, and another 100% luck 9. Time (Nov. 11th, 2007) Time moves too fast when you are not paying attention. 10. Pain (March 24th, 2007) Pain goes away…
Read MoreOn VCs
11/2007 It seems the best VCs have mastered the at of meddling in other people’s affairs. 01/2009 New VCs are popping up and YC is surely creating a stir. AH is exciting if they really create a keiretsu. 01/2013 VCs cannot keep up with the activity of startups even though Moritz says SV doesn’t need…
Read MoreChaos
11/2007 Great businessmen seem to have the ability to make chaos into structure, or at least ostensibly so. 06/2009 Are all startups this f’n Chaos @Boku 01/2012 Chaotic markets offer opportunity for those who take risk and try to calm the chaos 10/2016 Post Vipassana, Chaos doesn’t exist. Nothing is chaotic. It is all meant as its…
Read MoreLow Hanging Fruit
03/2008 Low-hanging fruit is low hanging because it’s rotten; why do business people go after low hanging fruit. That’s a rotten business strategy… 03/2013 Low hanging fruit is sometimes essential to get a startup off the ground. Customers who want the product, need the product and want to work with you. Maybe its not so…
Read MoreTime 2
There is no time, only place. Time is made by man. Time is an evil that dictates one’s circadian rhythm. If you control that rhythm, then time is obsolete. Click to rate this post! [Total: 0 Average: 0]
Read MoreOn Time
2008: Cherish (even the mistakes) the past, live the present, prepare the future. 2013: Learn from the past, be in the present, prepare for the future 2018: Embrace who you are right at this moment in time. Anything else doesn’t matter. Click to rate this post! [Total: 0 Average: 0]
Read MoreKakuma Ventures: Building Companies in a Refugee Camp
Starting Kakuma Ventures to Empower Refugees Kakuma is a small city of 200k people where displaced people want to create opportunities through entrepreneurship by building companies Most Meaningful Experience: Discovering some of the challenges people had in the refugee camp and being able to lend a hand to people who really want to learn. To…
Read MorePoem: Never to Look in a Mirror
Never to Look in the Mirror What if there were no mirrors? I met some kids yesterday who never looked in a mirror and when i showed them one they were amazed. I realized something and wrote a poem: If you never looked in the mirror There would be nothing to fear Nor Feelings that…
Read MoreMy First Humanitarian Footsteps with Innovation Africa in Uganda
My First Humanitarian Footsteps with Innovation Africa. Building water wells and solar energy in the desert to help others Most Meaningful Experience: Adapting to the environment and learning about the region I was wracked with uncertainty going into my first humanitarian project in Uganda’s Karamoja region. I’d just read about the horrors of Idi Amin’s…
Read MoreSeeing the Face of Hard Work and determination of the Batwa People in Rural Uganda
Volunteering in the Rift Valley of Uganda See Lake Bunyonyi and Mount Muhabara Most Meaningful Experience: Working with Reaplifedig.org and learning about the Batwa Community Top tips: – Volunteer with ReapLifeDig.org in southwestern Uganda – Explore the spectacular landscapes of Lake Bunyonyi – Trek to the volcanic peak of Mount Muhabura Meeting Lauren in Rwanda…
Read MoreESHIP Summit: Growing Start-Up Ecosystems Beyond Silicon Valley
ESHIP Summit: Growing Start-Up Ecosystems Beyond Silicon Valley How to grow startup investment outside of Silicon Valley I spent two fulfilling days in Kansas City at the 2nd annual ESHIP Summit hosted by the Kauffman Foundation. They led a group of 650+ people to discuss building and accelerating entrepreneurship in their communities. It was an exciting…
Read MoreNegotiation Strategy: Find the Opportunity in Differences
Negotiation Strategy: Find the Opportunity in Differences I just completed a negotiation class at Duke’s Executive Education Center. I just completed a negotiation class at Duke’s Executive Education Center. The money spent will surely yield multiples in return. https://www.fuqua.duke.edu/programs/executive-education/business-negotiation-skills Thirteen years have passed since I last took a negotiation class at the now, Fuqua…
Read MorePR & Communications that I Learned from the Perspicacious Dorie Clark
Communications that I Learned from the Perspicacious Dorie Clark Read her books Entrepreneurial You, Reinventing You, and Stand Out. She has also written over 170 articles for Harvard Business Review. I spent 3 days taking a PR&Communications class at Duke’s Executive Education Center with Dorie Clark https://www.linkedin.com/in/doriec/, an Author, Speaker, and Professor who specializes in communications, re-inventing careers, and…
Read MoreAn Intro to Yoga & Meditation the Isha Institute in Tennessee
Intro to Yoga & Meditation at the ISHA Institute Tucked away an hour from Nashville, Tennessee is one of the largest meditation retreats in the USA. Before we began our road trip from Nashville to San Francisco, Clarence and I were interested to experience an Inner Engineering session at the Isha Institute. We’d heard good…
Read MoreA Zimbabwean Student’s Journey to Silicon Valley
A Zimbabwean Student’s Journey to Silicon Valley An amazing story of how a young driven entrepreneur, Mthabais Ndlovu, made his way to Silicon Valley Sometime last year I (Mthabais) was watching videos from the SingularityU South Africa Summit 2018. One of the speakers said, “A mind once stretched by a new idea never returns to…
Read MoreWhat Tim Cook said at Duke’s Graduation May, 2018
What Tim Cook said at Duke’s Graduation May, 2018 Key Points Find the Fearlessness to change the world Regardless of your chosen field, follow a Vision and find a deeper purpose/meaning to achieve it. Don’t just follow a winding path that may yield you astray; follow a deeper purpose to drives you to it. Be…
Read MoreBrazil: Arriving in Rio & Tiradentes
Brazil: Arriving in Rio & Tiradentes My initial arrival to Rio de Janeiro Most Meaningful: Experiencing my friend’s wedding and seeing old friends Travel Tips: Minimize your time alone at night in Rio de Janeiro In August 2016, I took my first trip to South America. Within hours of setting foot on the continent, I was kicking…
Read MoreUruguay – A Relaxing Country with Great Asado
Uruguay – A Relaxing Country with Great Asado Various places, experiences and top tips for traveling Uruguay Top Travel Tips Stay at the El Galope Farm and Hostel for a more quiet time outside the city center of Colonia. Walk along the Rambla Pocitos, a promenade that stretches along Montevideo’s city centre beach. I recommend…
Read MoreDiscovering more Questions than Answers in the Congo
Discovering the Mysteries of the Congo The Congo is a mysterious place deep in history and filled with color Most Meaningful Experience: Travel to see the live Volcano Travel Tips: – Trek to see the mountain gorillas of the Virunga National Park – Hike to the volcanic peak of Mount Nyiragongo – Cruise the Congo…
Read More10 Things I Realized On Re-Entry Back Home From Traveling Africa
10 Things I Realized On Re-Entry Back from Africa. Travel changes you and Africa Makes You do a 180 Most Meaningful Experience: Understanding How Little One Really Needs In Life Travel always changes you. You never return home the same person you were when you left. This was particularly striking for me when I returned…
Read MoreOverland from Livingstone to Cape Town
Traveling Overland from Livingstone to Capetown for 30 days with a Dozen Strangers Traveling in Africa solo is difficult so Overland Bus is convenient Most Meaningful Experience: Learning patience and tolerance with my crew! Most meaningful experience: – Take a scenic flight over the Okavango Delta to wildlife spot from the air – Learn about…
Read MoreUgandan Encounters: Exploring outside of Kampala
Exploring Outside of Kampala, Uganda Make sure to go to Jinja to raft the Nile Most meaningful experience: – Read “A State of Blood” by Henry Kyemba to understand the misery and massacres of Uganda under Idi Amin. – Go white-water rafting at the source of the Nile in Jinja – Eat “rolex” – a…
Read MoreRun With and Like The Kenyans
Running With the Kenyans Learn How to run, train, and eat like the marathoners Most Meaningful Experience: Understanding the regiment of the best runners Most Meaningful: Visiting the home of a Kenyan runner at 6 am before a run to see that he slept on a wooden mattress and had only had two pairs of…
Read More10 things I learned by observing Ramadan as a non-Muslim
The 10 Things I Learned by Observing Ramadan As a non-Muslim, I learned a lot by obsevering Ramadan. Anyone else can too. Every year in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, Muslims around the world celebrate the holy month of Ramadan. While it’s commonly known as a month of fasting, with devotees abstaining from…
Read MoreLandmark Forum Addresses Relationships, Communication, Meaning of Life
Landmark Forum Addresses Relationships, Communication, Meaning of Life It’s a great way to work on old relationships and start with a fresh outlook Their relentless marketing is off putting to be honest The Landmark Forum is a 3-day communication and life help workshop that is held around the nation. The last day the main point…
Read MoreForeign Investment and Entrepreneurs in Zambia’s Startup Ecosystem
Foreign Investment and Entrepreneurs in Zambia’s Startup Ecosystem. Zambia’s open-investment policy is causing a boom in economic activity Most Meaningful Experience: Making friends at Bongohive.co.zm and working with Entrepreneurs Flying into Zambia, I was still hustling to get my presentation together. This would be the first time I’d be teaching again since my stint in…
Read MoreSolo Adventure Hiking Mount Kenya
Solo Adventure Hiking Mount Kenya I’m Vineet – I met Kurt in Ghana and we’ve been trekking buddies since. He didn’t join me on this trip but I I am writing a guest post for him! I love solo travel. I think it’s the best form of travel. To go out there by yourself…
Read MoreVolunteering in Kenya
Kenya Offers Many Volunteering Opportunities. The West Side of the Country is beautiful, relaxed, and his more laid back. Most Meaningful Experience: Visiting all of these non-profits was meaningful. Kenya West Side/Volunteer Having finished my Nairobi adventure, it was now time to meet Toto and move on to my second agenda – volunteering. During my…
Read MoreNairobi: The epicenter for East African Growth and Investment.
Nairobi is the Epicenter for East African Growth and Investment Nairobi is an exciting city with a juxtaposition of growth and abject poverty but it is getting better quickly. Most Meaningful Experience: Making friends, working at iHub, and visiting Kibera On arrival in Nairobi, I let out a sigh, as the airport was much more…
Read MoreA Glimpse into the History of Johannesburg and Legacy of Mandela
A Glimpse Into the History of Johannesburg and Legacy of Nelson Mandela and Gandhi Learning about the history of South African Apartheid and somewhat experiencing it. Travel Tips: Roaming around Johannesburg while gaining an insight into its racist issues and divide. Being approached for “selfies” with my Kaiser Chiefs jersey and confronting racism as…
Read MoreMozambique: The Pearl of the Indian Ocean
Mozambique: The Pearl of the Indian Ocean Traveling up the coast to Xia-Xia and Tofo Scuba Diving and of course the Fish Market in Maputo. Most Meaningful Experience: Dinner at the fish market with new friends Mozambique Travel Tips: • Explore the Fish Market and the seafood restaurants that cluster on Avenida Marginal in Maputo •…
Read MoreVolunTourism: In Africa
Voluntourism in Africa It was the great anti-apartheid leader Nelson Mandela that said: “There can be no greater gift than that of giving one’s time & energy to help others without expecting anything in return.” When I was planning my trip to Africa, I kept thinking “what can I do?” I couldn’t just spend months…
Read MoreSouth Africa Scuba Diving: Big Game Diving, Pelagics, and Ocean Safaris
Dive with The Pelagics – sharks, whales, dolphins – in South Africa. The best areas are just west of Durban on the Wild Coast Most Meaningful Experience: Getting out of my comfort zone and diving in fast currents Tackling the strong currents on deep dives at Protea Banks (only for experienced divers) while getting up…
Read MoreThe Future of Virtual Reality as seen by Students in South Africa
The Future that is Virtual Reality Using Google Cardboard, South African kids discovered to the possibilities the world has to offer. I hope this translates into more opportunity for others. After a few days working with my team at Team4tech in South Africa, Clarence convinced of the future of VR. The applications for education and…
Read MoreNigeria: Hustling from Yaba to Makoko
Nigeria: A Country of Hustle, Rich Culture, and Genuine People Exploring all of Lagos from Makoko to Victoria Islands Most Meaningful Experience: Going through the slums of Makoko with Funmi who is trying to enrich the poorest lives in the world. Travel Tips • Lagos is infused with energy. Wake before sunrise…
Read MoreLesotho: Blood Diamond Profits for Cheap Labor
Lesotho is home to many ‘blood’ diamond mines These mines from Letseng and De Beers extract resources and the lives of the locals for immense profits. This is a short post for the diamond lovers out there. Here is a factory owned by Gem Diamonds and supplies much of the diamonds to major distributors like…
Read MoreLesotho – The Adventure and Magical Kingdom in the Sky
Lesotho – The Adventure and Magical Kingdom in the Sky. Lesotho is a country that sits on a plateau completely surrounded by South Africa. It has a growing adventure scene. Most Meaningful Experience: Making a local friend and exploring a new country. Meeting the friendly Basotho people and discovering their tight-knit community culture Top Tips: –…
Read MoreVolunteering in a Township Outside Johannesburg, South Africa
This is what I learned volunteering in a township outside of Johannesburg, South Africa. As part of Team4Tech, we taught technology and entrepreneurship in the township of Ga-Rankuwa in Pretoria. Most Meaningful Experience: How to inspire those in poverty who think money will solve all of life’s problems. This is a good example of voluntourism…
Read MoreAlcatraz Swim for Sight 2016
Today we participated in the 5th annual Alcatraz Swim for Sight, started by Ron and Lorie Hirson. Lorie suffers from a very rare eye disease that is causing her to go blind. This event is led by them and sponsored for thatmanmaysee.org. The day starts at 530AM where we register for the swim, get ready,…
Read MoreItalian: A comparison of my favorite places
Italian: A Comparison of My Favorite Places Don’t miss the Italian restaurants in Japan! I always tell people that the best Italian food is in Japan. In fact, I have Italian people who often tell me the same. Of course, this may not be true but I have yet to have an Italian meal that…
Read MoreTop Places to Eat in Ishigaki City, Okinawa
Top Places To Eat In Ishigaki City, Okinway Ishigaki has some great places to eat. The village is a fun and festive atmosphere welcoming to foreigners. Enjoy your time there. Ishigaki Village: This is a fun area in the middle of Ishgaki. The yakitori skewers tell the story. Tuna Speciality: Today Lets eat in Tokyo…
Read MoreFried Cheese Banana
In Indonesia and Malaysia, a popular dessert is fried banana with melted cheese. It sounds terrible for western palettes but it’s not bad actually! Click to rate this post! [Total: 0 Average: 0]
Read MoreSingapore’s Government Funded Innovation
How Singapore Built an Innovative Economy The Government fueled the transition from manufacturing to skills-based economy Singapore has developed an economy based on real technical innovation. From mid-90s, the government invested heavily in research centers to develop the skills and knowledge of its local people. It is the easy-to-do business hub for the emerging South…
Read MoreWhat is Kakigori? Shaved Ice
What Is Kakigori? Kakigori is one of my favorite desserts. This place had a long line of college students. It is located in Meijiro Station. It gets a #2 rating for Kakigori. http://tabelog.com/en/tokyo/A1305/A130502/13003855/ Click to rate this post! [Total: 0 Average: 0]
Read MoreTurkey Mobile Payments: From Gold Coins to Carrier Billing
To facilitate trade between the east and the west in the 4th Century, Constantine the Great established the gold solidus as the standard of currency. This coin retained its status for about 1,000 years. In its most flourishing periods, the Byzantine state may have produced as many as several hundred thousand gold coins and a…
Read MoreCreate a Startup State: What American Politicians can learn from Lithuania, Estonia, and Finland
Short Summary: • Estonia, Lithuania, and Finland have created active startup communities and produced successful startups like Rovio, MySQL Supercell, and Skype. • American States — the same size as these countries — have been much less successful in creating startup companies and communities. • American state economic development officials can learn from these countries. A template exists to…
Read MoreHow the Warriors Used Business Development Tactics to Close Kevin Durant
How the Warriors Used Business Development Tactics to Close Kevin Durant Closing Deals as a Team is Powerful Did the Warriors land superstar Kevin Durant because of a last minute call by Jerry West, and chess-like player moves to make room in the salary cap? Contrary to popular reports, no. The Warriors spent years running…
Read MoreDefining the Sales and Business Development Roles in a Startup
Many startups are lead by technology experts who have never run a sales and business development operation. Many of these executives cannot clearly explain the difference of the two functions. The result is they cannot structure the organization to get the most value out of each function.Lets clear this up, because while they are different,…
Read MoreTransformation at the Hoffman Institute & Process
Transformation at the Hoffman Institute & Process The Hoffman Process is a week-long residential and personal growth retreat that helps participants identify negative behaviors, moods, and ways of thinking that developed unconsciously and were conditioned in childhood. The transformation at the Hoffman Institute is a paradigm shift. My career and relationship coach, Tessa advised me…
Read MoreWhat is a Zen Lunch? Refreshing Fish @ Suzunami 鈴波 in Roppongi Hills
What is a Zen Lunch? Refreshing Fish @ Suzunami in Roppongi Hills Yesterday I ate at Suzunami – a zen lunch place. My friend said that this was a place to get good fish, nutrition, and feel better afterwards. Suzunami specializes in cooking one type of fish extremely well. They also have a variety of…
Read MoreMalaysia: Penang, Malacca, and Georgetown
Most meaningful experience: Learning about the diverse history of Malacca and Georgetown. Cooking Class in Penang! Eating, eating and eating – the hawker stalls in Malacca and Georgetown are sensational! Top tips: – Get lost in the bustling streets of Malacca’s Chinatown and admire the diverse architecture along Harmony Street. – Learn about Penang’s unique…
Read MoreEating = Happy in Tokyo
Eating = Happy In Tokyo Click to rate this post! [Total: 0 Average: 0]
Read MoreMy Day At Wimbledon 2010
I started my day off at 5AM to get the tube to Wimbledon but the tube didn’t open till 6AM. So I killed an hour with work. After alighting at the tube stop, I caught a bus as instructed. The bus’s 2nd stop was Wimbledon Stadium. I was watching everyone on the bus but no…
Read MoreReunion at Davidson +15
Paul’s blog post inspired me to write a quick note about my thoughts of our reunion weekend and reflections of Davidson College. I do agree with Paul that I wish we were able to find a way to keep in touch more regularly with Davidson friends and acquaintances. Even with increasing communication mediums like Skype,…
Read MoreReligion, Business, and History in Egypt
The Religion, History, and Business of Egypt Being in Egypt at the time of Ramadan taught me to respect a lot of the Mulsim religion. I spent 5 days in Egypt, on an impromptu vacation, during Ramadan. I even attempted to participate in Ramadan. I also explored the Pyramids of Giza, the Great Sphinx, the…
Read MoreIsrael: From Jaffa to Jerusalem
Traveling Through Israel:Jaffa to Jerusalem Visiting Israel is an exciting religious, cultural, and overall powerful experience Most Meaningful Experience: Meeting new friends and getting to know the Israel scene Most meaningful experience: The tour of Jerusalem showed me that people are very passionate about their beliefs but its possible to exist together. The city is…
Read MoreHow to Make Homemade Okonomiyaki
How To Make Homemade Okonomiyaki A Japanese Recipe from my friend, Itoh-san Itoh-san is my friend of over 15 years when we met in Osaka. He has always been the Okonimyaki cooking master and last week we had Okonomiyaki cooking day. It was better than its ever been. Ingredients: Eggs Okonomiyaki powder mix (flour and…
Read MoreReunion at Davidson +15
Paul’s blog post inspired me to write a quick note about my thoughts of our reunion weekend and reflections of Davidson College. I do agree with Paul that I wish we were able to find a way to keep in touch more regularly with Davidson friends and acquaintances. Even with increasing communication mediums like Skype,…
Read MoreAsian Mobile Game Developers Coming to the West in 2015
Over the past two years, the western Android and iOS app stores have been dominated by three major developers: King, Supercell, and Kabam. The next 10 best-selling game developers — a list that includes household names such as EA, Gameloft, Disney — then take the bulk of the remaining global mobile gaming revenues. Chinese and Japanese game makers know…
Read MoreIibadashi Italian and Pizza in Japan
Iibadashi Italian and Pizza The Japanese way of Pizza + Restaurants Pizza is one of the most popular and loved dishes around the globe and as such, new recipes are being developed frequently to make it more delicious and appetizing. The Japanese have infused a few their local ingredients in pizzas to increase its edibility…
Read MorePart I: Six Reasons Startups Should Invest in Japan
Six Reasons Startups Should Invest in Japan Japan is an ideal place to open up offices and invest for the long-term. After Japan’s economic crash of the late 90’s, a fog settled over the land of the rising sun. Nearly two decades of deflation, a perceived lack of Japanese innovation, and a rapidly aging workforce…
Read MoreSaudi Arabia — A Secret Mecca for Consumer Technology Companies
Saudi is a place startups should be investing — look at Uber’s success Consumer market is flourishing and technology services are in demand Doing business there is easier than one may presume Demand in Saudi Arabia for consumer software is shockingly high. But most people in Silicon Valley do not understand why nor how to capitalize on…
Read MoreWhat I learned Taking German Colleagues to a Golden State Warriors Game
What I Learned Taking German Colleagues to a Basketball Game Sport can bridge the differences in working with different cultures Most Meaningful Experience: Everyone loves Stephen Curry The Warriors are in the middle of an amazing run, and I was lucky enough to host some of my German colleagues at against the Memphis Grizzlies last…
Read MoreLearnings from RURU — Mobile Payments in Russia
Merchant adoption of NFC has been slow and those who have adopted it are unconvinced. Many experts think that just replicating the ecosystems of Korea and Japan will work in the west. Those familiar with Asian markets realize that consumer behavior and the payments ecosystems in those markets are far too different than they are…
Read MoreTips to Manage International Teams at a Startup Technology Company
Successful companies grow quickly. In just a few years, a startup can grow from a small office in a technology incubator to a multinational operation with employees all over the world. But entrepreneurs are trained to build technology, not to scale and manage a dispersed global team. Here are some good principles to follow if…
Read MoreIndonesia’s Fast Growing Tech Market
Indonesia’s Fast-Growing Technology Market Indonesia is exploding. Catch it while you can. Indonesia has quietly become a great place to do business. The country finally seems to have cast off many of the problems that plagued it for years. Investors are starting to notice. Tokopedia recently raised $100 million from Sequoia and Softbank, Zalora raised…
Read MorePart II: Six Tips for Startups to Invest in Japan
Investing In Japan II Six Tips for Startups to Invest in Japan Japan perplexes foreigners. Stepping out of Tokyo Station for the first time can feel like landing on the moon. Even those who have lived in Tokyo for years can be overwhelmed by its linguistic and cultural nuances. This kind of culture shock is…
Read MoreTop Ten Reasons Why San Franciscans Would Love Tokyo
Top Ten Reasons Why San Franciscans Would Love Tokyo And they are… 1. Foodies! – Everyone knows I don’t like super expensive tasting menus and would always prefer a burrito or Yoshinoya. That said, I’ve always said SF has the best restaurants whether a cheap burrito or expensive Michelin rated; Tokyo has cheaper, better restaurants…
Read MoreWant to Volunteer in Nepal? Here is a List of Non-Profits
Want to Volunteer in Nepal? Here is a list of non-profits from the embassy. 1. BASE 2. BSP Nepal Biogas Support Programme 3. CEHURDES Center for Human Rights and Democratic Studies 4. CMF Centre for Micro-Finance in Nepal 5. Communicaction Corner 6. CVICT 7. CWIN 8. COPPADES 9. Didibahini 10. Ecohimal 11. Educate the Children…
Read MorePoem: An Ode to Austin
I departed the plane in the chill of night Only to be greeted by warmth and nice For one can tell the people by those they from the flight; I walked down the road facing a sharp wind Only to be aroused by the sweat smell of BBQ tamarind Then the smells of the street…
Read MoreBusiness as an Art
Bharti CEO Mittal after closing his deal with Wal-Mart said, “I like to express myself through large, transformational projects.” Business as a form of art and expression – I love that! Click to rate this post! [Total: 0 Average: 0]
Read MoreOn Haircuts
You are only as good as your last haircut. Today, I got a $5 haircut in China Town. Granted, I could have just use my own clippers and cut it for free but where in the USA can one get a $5 hair cut. 2018 Update: That barber shop now charges $20 Click to rate…
Read MoreOn the Future
For the gods perceive things in the future, ordinary people things in the present, but the wise perceive things about to happen…in their intense meditation the hidden sound of things approaching reaches them and they listen reverently while in the street outside, the people hear nothing at all. –Cavafy Click to rate this post! [Total:…
Read MoreA Day Mountain Biking
I went mountaing biking yesterday at Saint Teresa Park in San Jose, CA, just before a round of golf. Upon arriving, I noticed a group in the distance but didn’t think much of it. So I grabbed my two wheeled terrain hopper and took off. In the middle of my ride, I hear a gunshot…
Read MoreShoes
I always pushed our baseball team’s to polish their shoes, it looks good, professional. Crash Davis in Bull Durham told Nuke Laloosh, you have to polish your shoes until you make the show, then you can grow fungus and the press will think you are colorful. So while stumbling along Canal St (kind of chinatown?)…
Read More(17) Kurtisms
1. Bizness (Aug. 23rd, 2008) Every great biznessman thinks he knows where he is going until he gets there… 2. Haircuts (Aug. 23rd, 2008) “You’re only as good as your last haircut.” 3. Zen (Aug. 23rd, 2008) Cherish (even the mistakes) the past, live the present, prepare the future. 4. Low-Hanging Fruit (March 27th, 2008) Low-hanging…
Read MoreAn Anecdote About Doing Business in Asia
An Anecdote about Doing Business in Asia People often ask what I think the biggest differences are doing biz in US, China, and Japan. Here is how I can answer. A man walks into an American convenient store and asks for a Pepsi (Note: I prefer Pepsi over Coke so I’m using Pepsi in this…
Read MoreManaging Pitchers; Managing Entrepreneurs
While watching a Knoxville Smokies (AAA for Chicago Cubs) baseball game last night, a phenomenom that I never figured out during my baseball days dawned on me. Why do left handed pitchers wear their hats crooked – not all of them but most of them for sure? It was so apparent that even on the…
Read MoreWhat You Can Do to Stay Young
What You Can Do to Stay Young There are several things you can do to stay young. One thing is for certain in life, your parents will let you know when you are getting old. I’ve also noticed my close Japanese friends will let me know when I’m getting old or fat but they are…
Read MorePutting from the Fairway
The last few times that I’ve played golf, I’ve used my putter from the fairway. The elusive 25 yard chip is often problematic; its about touch. Sometimes you just don’t have it and sometimes you do. Its the same in billiards, dancing, ping pong , and well any other thing you can think of that…
Read MoreTruman on Leadership
1. Know their stuff, defend their men, be a man. KD: Take one for the team if you have to. 2. Power, money, and women will destroy a man. Note he said women not a woman. KD: I wouldn’t know about the first two but the last one definately will make you crazy. 3. Ride…
Read MoreA Train from SF to LA
if there were a train from SF to LA my flight would not have been delayed if i didn’t have to wait in a security line i wouldn’t have to arrive an hour b4 time if i were in a mag lev bullet train i wouldn’t have to worry when it rained even if it…
Read MoreThat’s Fresh
I recently went to a web2.0 conference where I was searching out deals to do mobile bling. There, I stopped by the Adobe Photoexpress exhibit where I spoke to a product manager. While giving my pitch to her, I exuberantly told her we could bling photos and send to the phone as they did on…
Read MoreRain
Now that I’ve lived in San Francisco during the rainy season, I have learned about a new type of rain. Most of you aren’t familiar with Carolina Rain, which is a great song by Carolina Rain. Some of the quotes are “rain feels like heaven when the water hits my skin” and “nothing washes my…
Read MoreBYO Chopstix
Did you know that China produces 68Bn disposable chopstix per year? That is roughly 60/person. Most of these are sold to small restaurants implying that the average chinese eat out once out of every 6 days. Hmm, I don’t think KFC uses chopstix nor does McDonalds so that would even increase the number of times…
Read MoreAn Ode to Thinking and Throwing
There seems to be an inextricable meditative link between throwing and thinking. This afternoon, Stephen Lee and I tossed a nerf football outside the Scribd office and I felt a cool breeze over my new haircut along with a new and completely untainted flow of thought. Just 2 hours before, we were in heated strategic…
Read MoreChinamas vs Christmas
Christmas is a time when all the people in the US scurry around to buy presents for their friends and family. Christmas is the time in China when everyone is working hard to supply the US with all the crap the Americans buy. Chinese New Year’s is the time when the Chinese collect all the…
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