PODCAST: Japanese America
Japanese America
Welcome to Japanese America, JANM’s new podcast that explores unique experiences, challenges, and triumphs of Japanese Americans and illuminates their contributions to the mosaic of American life.
From historical milestones to contemporary perspectives, join cohosts Michelle MaliZaki and Koji Steven Sakai on an insightful journey through JANM’s collection that showcases a diverse community that shapes the American story in extraordinary ways.
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Also on Overcast, Castro, Castbox, Podfriend, Goodpods
Recent Episodes
Season 3, episode 3: The Living Bridge: Hanako Wakatsuki-Chong and the Portland Sakura
April 9, 2026
It is peak Sakura season in the Pacific Northwest. In this episode of Japanese America, Michelle and Koji beam up to the Rose City to sit down with Hanako Wakatsuki-Chong, the Executive Director of the Japanese American Museum of Oregon (JAMO).
Season 3, episode 2: The Architect of Community: Irene Hirano Inouye
This episode is dedicated to the late Irene Hirano Inouye. As the longtime CEO of the Japanese American National Museum (JANM) and founder of the U.S.-Japan Council, Irene’s vision turned a “mess” of an old temple building into an international landmark and a permanent home for our stories.
Season 3, episode 1: Beyond the Rink: Kristi Yamaguchi on Heritage, Resilience, and Gold
February 10, 2026
Season 3 kicks off with a dive into JANM’s archives to revisit a powerful interview with 1992 Olympic gold medalist Kristi Yamaguchi, recorded for the More Than a Game exhibition.
Related Resources
- More Than a Game: Sport in the Japanese American Community—Explore more stories and resources from the 2000 exhibition
Episode 11: Blending Traditions, Japanese American Holiday Customs, and Unforgotten Voices
December 11, 2025
Celebrate the holidays through a Japanese American lens! This episode uncovers the meaning behind festive rituals, from quirky Christmas traditions in Japan to the rich flavors of New Year’s osechi.
Related Resources
- Explore Stanley Hayami’s diary
- Unforgotten Voices from Heart Mountain by Joanne Oppenheim and Nancy Matsumoto, available at the JANM Store
Episode 10: Thanksgiving Food Traditions and Japanese American Identity
November 13, 2025
Join hosts Koji and Michelle as they delve into their Thanksgiving traditions, unique culinary experiences, and the impact of Japanese cuisine on identity.
Related Article
Exchanging Enlightenment Through a Modern Medium
September 16, 2024
Discover Nikkei interviews Japanese America podcast cohosts, Koji Steven Sakai and Michelle MaliZaki, about how each episode uncovers new facts and perspectives on what makes up the diverse Japanese American experience in the 20th century.