In this episode of the Focus Core podcast, we dive into the innovative world of Japanese startups and corporate innovation with Tim Romero, partner at Jira Ventures and host of the Disrupting Japan podcast. Tim shares insights from his 30-year journey in Japan's startup scene, discussing the evolving ecosystem, key changes in corporate collaboration, and the challenges and opportunities for foreign entrepreneurs and investors. He also reflects on his experiences as a rock musician, professional podcaster, and educator, offering valuable lessons on leadership, sustainability, and technology's role in Japan's future.

The latest FocusCore Salary Guide is here: 2025 Salary Guide

In this episode you will hear:

• Tim’s transformative experiences in the tech industry
• The evolution of startup culture in Japan
• The cultural challenges and opportunities in Japanese markets
• Future trends in entrepreneurship and international collaboration

About Tim :

 Tim Romero is a partner at Jira Ventures and is the very well known host of the successful podcast “Disrupting Japan”, which has been going for over 10 years.

Tim is deeply involved in Japan's startup community as an investor, a founder, author, and educator, and he has founded several startups in Japan over the past 30 years. Tim has also taught entrepreneurship and corporate innovation. He has led Google for Startups in Japan and worked with various enterprises in Japan for startup investment and innovation strategy.

Connect with Tim Romero:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timromero/

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@disruptingjapan7899?si=k5T0GbmULUaAj8uQ

Website: https://www.disruptingjapan.com/ (Disrupting Japan)

https://www.jera.co.jp/en/corporate/business/ventures (Jera)

Connect with David Sweet:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdavidsweet/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/focuscorejp

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/focuscoreasia

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/focuscorejp/

Website: https://www.japan.focuscoregroup.com/

“Doin’ the Uptown Lowdown,” used by permission of Christopher Davis-Shannon. To find out more, check out www.thetinman.co. Support independent musicians and artists.

Mentioned in this episode:

Find out more about salaries, the job market, hiring and what's important to both companies and individuals looking for a job specifically in Japan.

2025 Salary Guide