We, who usually conduct the interviews, are sharing our own version of "love" this time. We sat down with our boss, Okada-san, to talk about his work, the team, and the love he pours into the future.
First impressions of the theme "love"
— What was your reaction when you heard "love" was the theme?
Honestly, I was puzzled (laughs). "Love" is a vague term, and I’ve always felt it’s a bit embarrassing to say out loud. There was also a slight resistance, wondering if I was even qualified to speak about it.
However, watching the reality dating shows that are popular lately, I think there might be parts of human emotional dynamics that we are unconsciously drawn to.
"Love" dwelling in daily life and work
— For you, Okada-san, when do you feel love?
One is "familial love." Even as I approach 30, my parents still look out for me. During my student days, there were times I felt embarrassed by it, but now I can genuinely accept it as unconditional love.
The other is "encounters at work." Moments when I talk to other vendors at events or customers drinking our mead, and our feelings connect. That kind of connection might be something close to love.
— Do you think love is necessary for work?
I believe love is the "result of unconscious action." Once you learn the passion of a farmer, the feeling of "I want to handle this with care, I want to look after this" naturally wells up. That spontaneous feeling is love, and I feel that it is because that exists that better things are created.
Trust in the team and how to deal with ego
— Five years at Antelope. Do you feel love for the team?
The fact that I’ve been able to continue for five years is itself a testament to the comfort of this team—which I suppose is a form of love. Because we’ve been together for so long, we can anticipate each other's needs and help out without a word—knowing, for example, "this task needs to be done next." I always feel love within that kind of concrete consideration.
— How do you feel about the idea that "love can turn into ego"?
Certainly, if love becomes an imposition, it might become ego. But I don't think we need to be anxious about it just because it's ego. If you believe something is good for the other person, just try it. You can't change others or the past, but you can change your own actions.
Future challenges. Working without losing love
— With a new challenge in Oita ahead, what do you want to value?
Above all, to stick to what I personally find fun and want to do. I believe love exists not only between people, but also in relationships with nature, like plants and alcohol. If you have a proactive attitude, like talking to the mead and saying, "grow well," you shouldn't lose that sense of love. Don't be made to do things; move on your own. I want to create a place where people like that gather.
Finally, to conclude this interview, I’d like to introduce a song where I feel "love"! Please give it a listen.
・Okada-san's choice: "Aisansan" / Hibari Misora
A form of deep and grand love that sings, "Life is a mysterious thing."
・Yusuke's choice: "Kudaranai no Naka ni" / Gen Hoshino
A song that sings about the affection found in the casual interactions of daily life.
・Toyokin-san's choice: "Ai no Naka e" / Off Course
A sense of kindness and strength in diving into love, even while being uncertain.
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Love is red and passionate - ANTELOPE Yusuke