Expert Interviews Archives • Sasuga! Communications

What Would You Say To Your Future Self?

by Helen Iwata | Mar 19, 2025 | All, Communication Skills, Conference Calls, Effective Facilitation, Expert Interviews, Personal Growth, Presentation Skills, Productive Meetings

Last week, I had the privilege of leading a 1-day workshop for female leaders at a stunning offsite in Hokkaido—Niki Hills Winery (highly recommend a visit!). The day before, I was treated to a winery tour and tasting. But the most memorable part? Seeing these special...

The Truth Behind My TEDx Talk (And 3 Presentation Tips For You)

by Helen Iwata | Feb 18, 2025 | All, Communication Skills, Conference Calls, Effective Facilitation, Expert Interviews, Personal Growth, Presentation Skills, Productive Meetings

Have you ever given a presentation that didn’t go as planned? Maybe you had problems with the slides, your mind went blank, or something else threw you off? If so, you’re not alone. Even experienced speakers face challenges—and I certainly did during my TEDx Talk...

The Key To Break Through Language Limitations As An Adult

by Helen Iwata | Dec 5, 2023 | All, Communication Skills, Effective Facilitation, Expert Interviews, Personal Growth, Presentation Skills, Productive Meetings

Have you struggled with language learning as an adult? Or have you ever given up on something else you wanted to do because someone told you it wasn’t possible? English Pronunciation Expert and Coach Aiko Hemingway shared in her recent TEDx Talk at Huntington Beach...

3 Checkin Questions To Reduce Meeting Distractions

by Helen Iwata | Jul 3, 2023 | All, Communication Skills, Conference Calls, Effective Facilitation, Expert Interviews, Personal Growth, Presentation Skills, Productive Meetings

Have you ever been in a meeting where your colleague didn’t seem to be paying attention or contributing fully? You might feel frustrated. But you probably don’t know what’s going on in that person’s life that could be distracting them. One day, I joined a 1:1 coaching...

3 Tips To Deal With “Mum Guilt”

by Helen Iwata | Jun 20, 2023 | All, Announcements, Communication Skills, Conference Calls, Effective Facilitation, Expert Interviews, Personal Growth, Presentation Skills, Productive Meetings

“My son has been sick this week, and he ended up watching YouTube for kids all day since he wants to be in my room where I work. I felt bad.” This is a classic example of mum guilt. In many cases, “Mum guilt” (or “Mom guilt” or “Mommy guilt”) is when you want to be a...

Is It Unprofessional To Smile?

by Helen Iwata | Jun 13, 2023 | All, Announcements, Communication Skills, Conference Calls, Effective Facilitation, Expert Interviews, Personal Growth, Presentation Skills, Productive Meetings

I was amused when I read an article about how Japanese people were taking classes to learn how to smile after spending so long wearing masks during the pandemic. It makes sense though. Our facial expression has a huge impact on our communication to others as well as...