“What we really need now is a stronger network of activist groups and communities which are beginning to make radical transitions that we need, and I hope that Yonaoshi will be part of that coalition to bring people together in creating these network, which will serve as good medicine against this sense of powerlessness.” ~ Dr. Charles Cabell

Dr. Charles Cabell is an associate professor of Global and Regional Studies at Toyo University. He holds a P.h.D in Modern Japanese Literature from the Department of East Asian Languages and Civilization at Harvard University and his interests include cultural studies, Japanese literature, and educational practice and theory. Currently the acting president of the International Association for Japan Studies (IAJS), Charles has been involved in pioneering  “Yonaoshi- Why not Remake the World”,  a new form of academic conference called that combines participant-centered, creatively interactive learning events with entertainment in order to bring together students, activists, scholars, and concerned laypeople to actively engage in issues connected with equity and social justice in the context of the ecological and climate crisis. 

In this conversation, we discussed many topics ranging from his background story, ikigai and connection with Japan; his thoughts on our environment, education and possible solutions in "remaking the world". Charles is a professor who truly cares for his students and does everything he can to help them grow and contribute in this world. I miss taking his classes back I was an undergraduate student in Japan. It's fun to reconnect here and we're also planning to record another episode focusing on discussing and analyzing literature. Let me know if you enjoy this conversation as I did! Show-notes available at sherabjin.com