EP 32: Timing, Tenacity, and Logistical Triumphs: Emi and Phil’s Intercultural Love Story

MIXUNDERSTOOD

In this episode, we explore the remarkable story of Emi and Philip, a multicultural couple whose relationship has spanned continents and navigated countless challenges. Meeting in the U.S. in the early 2000s—before the convenience of Zoom calls and smartphones—Emi, who is Japanese, and Philip, who is English/Australian, embarked on a long-distance relationship that tested their resolve, patience, and commitment.

Their journey takes us through the logistical and bureaucratic hurdles of maintaining a relationship across oceans, navigating time differences, visa issues, learning each other's languages and accents, and staying flexible around constant career changes.

Their focus on "making it work" and staying attuned to each other's needs is inspiring and encouraging for anyone who might be currently in a long-distance relationship.

But this episode isn’t just about the logistical challenges. At its heart, it’s about two individuals searching for that elusive place where they can both fully be themselves. Through sacrifices, cultural and familial expectations, and the ever-present struggle of belonging, they continued to seek a home where their identities and experiences could be fully embraced.

Join us as we uncover the emotional and cultural complexities of their journey, filled with moments of humor, frustration, and ultimately, a breakthrough in finding a place where they both could thrive.

In This Episode, We Talk About:

• The challenges of navigating long-distance relationships with limited technology.
• Overcoming cultural and familial expectations to be together.
• The impact of living in different countries on their identities and relationship.
• The struggles of finding work and fitting into new societies as immigrants.
• The journey of finding a place where they both can be fully themselves.

This is our last interview for Season 2. Next week, I’ll be sharing a final short episode with my personal reflections on this season, so make sure to listen in!

Guests:

Emi Nishimura & Philip Canavan

@emi_canavan & @lostinthemosh

@japanscreenadvocacy

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Music by Mathias Kunzli www.mathiaskunzli.com