Samurai Strategist/2x Tedx Speaker/2x Best Selling Author

lori tsugawa

TOPICS - • Adversity • Brain • Challenge • Culture

• Philosophy • Resilience • Women's Interests

lori tsugawa - PROGRAMS

  • "The Ikigai Awakening" – Discover the secret to a purpose-driven life through Ikigai, the Japanese path to blending passion, mission, and impact in everything you do.
  • "The Bushido Blueprint" – Learn how to embody the principles of the Bushido code, forging a path of integrity and valor to lead with strength and purpose.
  • "The Ganbaru Spirit" – Master the mindset of relentless perseverance rooted in Japanese culture, empowering yourself to rise above challenges and achieve greatness.
  • "Timeless Wisdom" - Ancient Japanese Principles for Today’s World- Explore ancient Japanese philosophies that inspire balance, growth, and purpose, offering practical tools for thriving in today’s fast-paced world.

Samurai Strategist

Using concepts from my Japanese Samurai heritage, Lori's mission is to:

  • Instill the Samurai warrior principles of Bushido; courage, integrity, benevolence, respect, honesty, honor and loyalty as a means of overcoming life’s challenges and provide a moral framework
  • Utilize the concept of Ikigai to assist individuals in finding/refining their purpose in life
  • Embrace Ganbaru (determination) that drove the Samurai to never give up, in spite of circumstances.

These foundational pillars encompass the basics of Samurai Strategist philosophy and guide you in facing life’s challenges like the ancient Japanese Samurai warrior! 

lori tsugawa - Biography

Lori is a third-generation Japanese American who grew up in a rural, primarily- Caucasian community in southwest Washington State.


Memories of WWII lingered, and prejudice was an obstacle to overcome. Although a very painful experience, something deep inside would not let the pain she felt defeat her.

​

​Faced with a diagnosis of traumatic brain injury (TBI) from two automobile accidents later in life, this mysterious inner strength led Lori to explore my Japanese heritage. She discovered the ancient code of Bushido — "the Way of the Warrior" practiced by her Samurai ancestors. 

​

These timeless principles guided and encouraged her in her struggles to overcome TBI. The recovery fueled her passion to help others utilize these principles as a guide to overcoming life's challenges, just as they did for Lori.



TBI Survivor

I am a proud survivor of a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). Life took an unexpected turn for me, and I found myself navigating the challenges that come with such an experience. The modern platforms I use serve as a means to share my journey, connect with others facing similar battles, and spread awareness about the strength that lies within every TBI survivor.

 

My story is one of struggle, resilience, adaptation, and continual growth in the aftermath of TBI. I have learned to appreciate the beauty of small victories, the strength found in vulnerability, and the importance of fostering a supportive community. Join me as I navigate life’s journey, share insights gained through my unique perspective, and advocate for the awareness and understanding of Traumatic Brain Injuries. With the help of Bushido, let's break the stigma, inspire others on similar paths, and celebrate the indomitable spirit that defines us as survivors.

 

Thank you for being a part of this journey. Your support and understanding mean the world to me, and I look forward to fostering a community of resilience, hope, and shared experiences.

Check Availability

Leadership lessons inspired by the Samurai spirit and the resilience of Japanese American pioneers.


In Let the Samurai Be Your Guide, Lori Tsugawa Whaley—a third-generation Japanese American, author, keynote speaker, and professional life coach—delivers a heartfelt tribute to the Nisei (second-generation Japanese Americans) while drawing upon the enduring principles of Bushido, the Samurai code of ethics. This book explores how the Samurai ethos shaped Japanese culture and influenced the remarkable leadership of individuals who navigated profound challenges with courage, integrity, and honor.


Whaley interweaves the seven tenets of Bushido—courage, integrity, benevolence, respect, honesty, honor, and loyalty—with the compelling stories of historical figures, including:

  • Senator Daniel Inouye, a World War II hero and trailblazing statesman
  • Chiune Sugihara, the diplomat who risked everything to save thousands during the Holocaust
  • Michi Nishiura Weglyn, an advocate for justice who illuminated the experiences of Japanese American internees

Through these narratives, Let the Samurai Be Your Guide illustrates how Nisei leaders applied Samurai principles to confront adversity, rebuild communities, and make lasting contributions to society.


Rather than focusing on martial prowess, this book highlights the moral strength, resilience, and service to others at the heart of Bushido. Whaley invites readers to connect with these values, offering guidance for leading with integrity and purpose in today's complex world. This unique blend of history and cultural insight celebrates the Nisei legacy and its profound lessons for leadership and humanity.