People of Tea

Takahiro Yagi of Kaikado - Tea People 07

In this episode, George sits down with Takahiro Yagi, sixth-generation tea caddy maker at Kaikado. They explore 150 years of craftsmanship, human connection, and Kaikado’s journey from Kyoto to the world. From his love of Lishan black tea to reimagining caddies for outer space, Takahiro’s insights reveal how objects—and traditions—can grow more beautiful over time.

Marjolein Raijmakers - Tea People 06

In this episode, George speaks with Marjolein Raijmakers, a tea professional from the Netherlands who first encountered Japanese tea during a university exchange in Kyoto. After returning to Japan as an intern at Obubu Tea Farms, she stayed on to support tours and tea education in Wazuka. Their conversation covers everyday work in the tea fields, sharing tea across languages, and how calm, thoughtful hospitality creates meaningful connection.

Kanji Nakata - Tea People 05

In this episode, George sits down with Kanji Nakata, a former schoolteacher turned tea farmer in Kamikatsu, Tokushima. They explore Kanji’s journey from growing up near Uji’s tea fields to discovering Awabancha—a rare, fermented Japanese tea that changed his life. From deep dives into brewing styles and food pairings to reflections on sustainability, community, and creativity, this conversation blends tea wisdom with personal philosophy. Tune in for a story as rich and layered as the tea itself.

Pau Valverde Molina - Tea People 04

In this episode, George speaks with Pau Valverde Molina on his journey from coffee roaster in Catalonia to tea intern in Japan. Pau shares how curiosity, experimentation, and a belief that “tea is freedom” shaped his path across brewing cultures, countries, and disciplines. From Matcha to Rice Cultivars, stoicism to fermentation, Pau’s open-minded approach reveals a world where learning never stops, and brewing tea is a quiet act of intention.

Sarah Mazza - Tea People 03

In this episode, George sits down with Sarah Mazza on her last day at Obubu Tea Farm. From her childhood tea memories in Italy to anthropological research during her master’s degree, Sarah shares how tea became a thread connecting her studies, friendships, and personal growth. With reflections on Japanese tea, Tokoname teapots, and the philosophy that “tea is freedom,” this episode is a heartfelt and curious exploration of tea’s power to evoke memory, community, and change.