The power of listening: Insights from Sayaka Ohashi, Lawyer and Advocate

Sayaka Ohashi, a legal counsel specialising in employment law, shares how her experience of raising three children and listening to what they have to say, has greatly improved her practice in employment law. She also encourages male lawyers to embrace child-rearing as it can make them better professionals. Her reasons are a little different from what you might be thinking (you will need to listen in!) Sayaka has had a varied career with big law firms and now running her own practice also makes time for new hobbies and even a side business! 

If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Head over to Apple Podcasts to leave a review and we’d love it if you would leave us a message here!

In this episode you’ll hear:

The importance of listening skills for all lawyers

How Sayaka practiced effective communication with her children that helped her support her clients too

The social pressures that Japanese mothers face and what can happen when you try to do it all yourself

Finding meaning in imperfections through the art of Kintsugi and creating a side business from learning about gardening

Her favourite book and other fun facts 


About Sayaka 
Sayaka Ohashi is a lawyer who has been practicing almost 20 years. Her focus is on employment, as well as supporting foreigners living in Japan on legal issues. She is also active as a translator/interpreter. Quite recently, she also started a business as a florist and enjoys creating container gardens.

Connect with Sayaka 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sayaka-ohashi-46292131/

Links
Artizon Museum restaurant https://www.artizon.museum/user-guide/museum-cafe/ 
How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk: https://amzn.asia/d/8C5GKVk 

Connect with Catherine 
Linked In https://www.linkedin.com/in/oconnellcatherine/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawyeronair
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@lawyeronair