Wabi Sabi - The Perfectly Imperfect Podcast with Candice Kumai

• EP 182 Kintsugi: Unlock Your Ikigai/Purpose In Broken Times

  Let’s be real—life falls apart sometimes. But here’s the good news: in Japan, we don’t toss the broken stuff—we gold it. This week on Wabi Sabi, I’m diving into the art of kintsugi and how those so-called “cracks” in your life can actually lead you to your ikigai—your purpose, your why, your get-out-of-bed-and-make-matcha energy. We’ll talk breakups, burnout, identity shifts, and how feeling “off” can actually be the beginning of something beautiful. It’s not about having it all together—it’s about loving your flaws, laughing at the mess, and finding your path anyway. This is your permission slip to be a little broken, a little fabulous, and a lot more you.

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• EP 181 It's so Important to Always be Kind xx

  Hey friend, I know I've been a bit MIA from the pod these past few weeks, and I truly appreciate your patience. Life has its seasons, and sometimes we walk through chapters that aren’t ready to be shared—yet. What I can say is this: we’re all on our own unique path, and you never really know what someone else is going through. That’s why it’s more important than ever to lead with compassion. Everyone—everyone—is doing their best with what they have. When we start from that belief, we shift the way we see the world. We soften. We open. We allow more grace in. Today we will also be doing just a round up of recent events and little notes that you've all sent my way... Today’s episode is a gentle reminder to pause. To take care of yourself. To give back to your community, even in small, quiet ways. To rest. To breathe. To do the little things that bring you peace. As one of my favorite monks once told me in Japan: "Bochi bochi ganbatte." Step by step, do your best. We’ll also explore some perspectives from the Kintsugi documentary—how we mend, how we shift, and how we prepare for change in this ever-evolving world. And always remember: Wabi Sabi is about embracing the beauty in imperfection. Life isn’t meant to be polished. It’s meant to be real. So don’t stress too much. You’re doing better than you think. Let’s begin.

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• EP 180 Kintsugi: How to Never Give Up on Your Dreams + Healing by Storytelling

  Welcome to this episode of the Wabi Sabi podcast! Today, we dive deep into the powerful and inspiring reviews you've shared with us about what you took away from the Kintsugi documentary. Your feedback has been nothing short of amazing, and I can't wait to reflect on it with you. Have you ever felt like giving up on your dreams? I know I have. In today's episode, I’ll be sharing some personal insights on how I’ve shifted my perspective, shaped my future, and kept pushing forward—even when there was no immediate reward and when others doubted me. These are not easy stories to share, especially when faced with negative comments or criticism—because yes, it happens. But through it all, I've learned one crucial thing: the moment an artist stops pursuing their dream is the moment that dream dies. I’m here to remind you to keep going, no matter what. Thank you for listening and if you love the show, don’t forget to leave us a five-star review to help keep this free, public service podcast alive. xx Candice

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• EP 179 Kintsugi: Kakugo a Resolution to Your Life's Journey

  Today, we’re diving deep into the timeless philosophy of Kakugo—resolution, determination, and the clarity of purpose in our lives. Kakugo is about setting intentions and committing fully to them, much like the monks high in the mountains who dedicate themselves to a life of service, simplicity, and profound mindfulness. In today’s episode, we’ll explore how we can learn from those who have walked the path before us—from the wisdom of these monks to the lessons hidden in the unfiltered messages of children. We’ll also take a closer look at the Kintsugi documentary, which captures the essence of Japanese spirit, and how it all ties back to the powerful practice of Kintsugi. If you’ve seen Kintsugi, the limited series I created that aired on NHK World, you’ll recognize how the art of golden repair teaches us that our brokenness, our flaws, and our scars aren’t just things to hide, but something to embrace. They become the gold that strengthens us, propels us forward, and makes us whole again. In a world where so many of us are battling feelings of anxiety and hopelessness, these ancient practices offer us the tools we need to mend, to grow, and to find peace. How can we be better individuals, and better people, by applying these lessons from the past to our everyday lives in the present? Let’s talk about how we can incorporate these teachings into our daily practice and open our hearts to the beautiful brokenness of being human. Thank you for joining me. Let’s explore this journey of healing, transformation, and discovering your own path to resilience. x ck

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• EP 178- Kintsugi: Japanese Wisdom for Your Mind

  In Japanese culture, there are many subtle practices that help cultivate humility, kindness, love, and softness, even in the midst of a turbulent world. Japan, having endured natural disasters and war, serves as a living work of art. The philosophy of Kintsugi teaches us that the cracks—whether from atomic bombs, earthquakes, or tsunamis—represent both pain and resilience. The Japanese people embody gaman, the ability to endure and persevere. We learn to rise, rebuild, and heal. In this episode, I’m excited to share insights from my documentary Kintsugi, and some valuable lessons we’ve learned along the way to help you mend, heal, and restore your own life. Thank you for listening. If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider leaving a five-star review and sharing it with a friend. With love, Candice

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