*This episode originally aired in February 2023

In this episode, we welcome back Professor Steve McCarty for a deep dive into Kūkai the Universal, a historical novel by Ryōtarō Shiba, translated by Akiko Takemoto. Together, we explore the life, vision, and spiritual legacy of Kūkai (Kōbō Daishi), one of Japan’s most influential Buddhist figures.

Steve McCarty, originally from Boston, holds a master’s degree in Asian religions from the University of Hawaiʻi and has spent 40 years living and teaching in Japan. A full professor for more than two decades, he currently lectures at Osaka Jogakuin University and JICA, where he educates international officials about Japanese society and culture. He writes extensively on Japanese religion, bilingualism, and intercultural education.

🔗 Explore his work: Japanned – Steve McCarty’s site

🎧 Outro: “Over the Mountain” by Buddhist hip-hop artist and former guest Gomyo Kevin Seperic. Support Gomyo’s family at GoFundMe – Kaori’s Treatment, and make sure to buy the album.

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