Date of publication: Apr 27, 2020

Katheryn Gronauer

Founder, Executive Trainer & Coach: Thrive Tokyo

Date of birth: Sept. 3, 1989

Hometown: Palm Beach, Florida

Number of years in Japan (cumulative): 10 (as of April 2020)

Q1: What was your first encounter with Japan?

My mother is Japanese and my father is American. I grew up mostly in Palm Beach, Florida, and spent every summer in Japan visiting my grandfather, aunts and uncle. During my elementary school years I attended a local school in Japan during my summer vacations and made friends with kids from my neighborhood.

Q2: Please state your motto in life and why you have chosen it.

I love the expression “You never know unless you try.” I have a rampant curiosity to understand how things work and I learn more through engagement and trial and error. Having this attitude has helped me launch a company, publish a book, connect with industry experts and gain experiences with companies I could only have dreamed of.

Q3 : Over your career, what achievement are you the proudest of?

I’m proud of a variety of accomplishments including publishing a book and connecting with experts through podcasting and other media. But the most rewarding of all is when I hear the successes from my clients about what they’ve been able to achieve thanks to our work together. It’s knowing that I’ve helped people in Japan breathe easier in work and in day-to-day living that fuels me to do more.

Q4 : What are your goals during your time in Japan, your current position or in life?

Growing up biculturally, I’ve always felt like I can be a positive bridge between Japan and the rest of the world. I want to help as many foreigners in Japan as I can to learn about how people in Japan think and the emotional drivers that influence their behavior at work so businesses can succeed globally.

Q5 : What wisdom, advice or tips can you give to people living and working in Japan?

For people who are relatively new to Japan, I’d say that every person experiences transitional highs and lows. There’s a big learning curve to working and living in Japan; know that you’re not alone, that obstacles are resolvable, and focus on how this experience can help you learn more about yourself in your personal development.

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Last updated: Apr 27, 2020