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Rediscovering Japanese Culture and Education

In the rich tapestry of Japanese culture, unique stories unfold that shape our lives. One such narrative is brought to the forefront through the radio program "Nippori Seminar," which invites guests from diverse backgrounds to share insights on careers and culture.

In its 28th edition, the program welcomed David Mikyo, the founder of Niente, a company with a mission to "reconstruct value" through upcycling and innovative products. Broadcasting on September 5, 2025, this episode promises an engaging exploration of David's life and endeavors.

A Life of Impulse and Passion

David Mikyo's distinct name carries a legacy, stemming from his family's roots in music and faith. With a father who was both a minister and a country musician, David was deeply influenced by his upbringing. By his teenage years, he was enamored with the idea of becoming an architect.

However, after leaving an architectural firm just three months in, an enticing urge to travel to Italy led him to pivot his career again. Enjoying a vibrant lifestyle in Italy further shaped his vision for what he wanted to create.

Upon returning to Japan, David spent a summer working in Karuizawa before embracing life as a bicycle messenger in Tokyo. What began as a short-term role extended into a four-year journey—this time, a revelation struck: the messenger bag he carried was too bulky for personal use.

Motivated by this insight, David self-taught the art of making compact messenger bags, which eventually set him on a path to becoming a bag manufacturer.

The Birth of Niente

In 2009, David joined tokyobike, progressing from shop staff to management and ultimately an executive. By 2019, he took a bold step to establish Niente, focusing on the upcycling of discarded materials into valuable products. Today, Niente’s store in Gōtokuji, Tokyo, showcases a variety of original products, alongside curated selections that include tokyobike bicycles, Moonstar shoes, apparel, art, and unique lifestyle items.

Niente also serves as a vibrant community hub, organizing workshops and job experiences for middle school students. This initiative nurtures the local community, reflecting David’s commitment to connection and shared learning.

The Essence of the Interview

In this interview, David candidly describes his approach to life as "impulsive, situational, and serendipitous." He reflects on formative experiences from his youth, including his childhood dream of architecture, his pivotal time in Italy, and his unexpected years as a messenger. The discussion also delves into the origins of his name, the educational philosophy his parents instilled in him, and his vision for Niente’s future projects.

Listeners can expect engaging stories that reveal how David’s spontaneous decisions fueled his entrepreneurial journey and unique perspective on value creation. Additionally, he dreams of repurposing abandoned schools and expanding the role of his shop into a more profound community center, underscoring his desire to lead small communities in meaningful ways.

Why Listen?

We invite you to tune in to the Nippori Seminar—your chance to learn from diverse voices and inspiring stories. Don’t miss part one of David’s interview airing on September 5, 2025, and part two on September 19, 2025. Enjoy a compelling narrative that celebrates learning, growth, and the beauty of cultural diversity.

Check out the episodes on various podcast platforms. Get ready to elevate your understanding of Japanese culture and innovation through the lens of David Mikyo’s remarkable experiences.

🔗 Listen to the Radio Here!