Chris Peppler, John Kabira, Harry Sugiyama, and Saya Ichikawa join as hosts! J-WAVE’s “Original Evolution” new program “MIDDAY LOUNGE” begins broadcasting in October

Chris Peppler, John Kabira, Harry Sugiyama, and Saya Ichikawa join forces as navigators! J-WAVE’s “Original Evolution” new program “MIDDAY LOUNGE” begins broadcasting in October. ​
J-WAVE (81.3FM) Press release: September 12, 2025 To Members of the Press Chris Peppler, John Kabira, Harry Sugiyama, and Saya Ichikawa join the cast! J-WAVE’s “Original Evolution” new program “MIDDAY LOUNGE” begins broadcasting in October
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MIDDAY LOUNGE Radio station J-WAVE (81.3FM) will be implementing autumn program reorganization starting Wednesday, October 1, 2025. Our concept is “Evolution from the Origin.” While carrying on our original mission of creating a new wave and movement in Tokyo, we will deliver a new program that has evolved even further for the future. This new program embodies this concept, bringing together a star-studded lineup of hosts for each day of the week. Harry Sugiyama will host the show on Mondays, Saya Ichikawa on Tuesdays, Chris Peppler on Wednesdays, and John Kabira on Thursdays. Information about other new programs and renewals as part of this reorganization will be announced in the future. Please stay tuned. 【New Program Starting in October】 ■Program Name: MIDDAY LOUNGE ■Broadcast time: Every Monday to Thursday from October 2025, 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM ■Navigator: Monday: Harry Sugiyama Tuesday: Saya Ichikawa Wednesday: Chris Peppler Thursday: John Kabira This three-hour live broadcast features international hosts with global roots who invite listeners on a journey to discover a new you and a new world. The title of the program, LOUNGE, evokes the image of an airport lounge. It evokes the image of a place where people can relax in the afternoon (MIDDAY) while sharpening their curiosity and antennae for the future. A diverse range of people gather in airport lounges, including those heading to a new country, those studying abroad or emigrating, and those embarking on a major job. They spend their time relaxing and excited about discovering a new world. With this very space as its backdrop, “MIDDAY LOUNGE” is an immersive three hours that takes listeners on a journey to discover a new self and a new world. Harry Sugiyama, Saya Ichikawa, Chris Peppler, and John Kabira will appear on a rotating daily basis. Their diverse
perspectives and sensibilities transcend generations and backgrounds. ＜Harry Sugiyama’s Comment: Monday Navigator＞
https://prcdn.freetls.fastly.net/release_image/25404/1825/25404-1825-c3c88c194979564e2ac6f3cd14ee270d-560×560.jpg Harry Sugiyama This October marks his 15th year as a J-WAVE navigator. I’m truly honored to be able to share time with listeners again at this time with “MIDDAY LOUNGE” during the lunchtime. 14 years have passed, and I’m now 40 years old. The people who came to my events during my first year were climbing the ladder of life. Some were leaving their lives like my father and grandmother, while others were announcing their marriages. I met some listeners while running a full marathon, and some were reunited at a soccer stadium overseas. Radio can create the unique connections that create such miracles. Now that I’ve gained a wealth of experience, I hope to deepen new connections with you all at “MIDDAY LOUNGE.” ＜Comment from Saya Ichikawa: Tuesday Navigator＞
https://prcdn.freetls.fastly.net/release_image/25404/1825/25404-1825-dae81a445d3d2e32a16b363cfd7b271d-1080×1080.png Ichikawa Saya A three-hour live broadcast, and all by myself! As a radio fan, I’m both honored and humbled. Drawing on the energy of my three seniors on other days, I’ll do my best to deliver moments that add new perspectives and discoveries to everyday life. I want this show to be a place where listeners can laugh, think, and take a breather together in the afternoon. We aim to provide a program that allows you to relax and listen, but that will leave you with a “huh-huh” or “oh, I see” moment if you’re not paying attention. ＜Chris Peppler’s Comment: Wednesday Host＞
https://prcdn.freetls.fastly.net/release_image/25404/1825/25404-1825-dbb604b614ab09b3cc4726808486eac6-1080×1080.png Chris Peppler I’m Chris Peppler, your Wednesday host for “MIDDAY LOUNGE.” I’m really looking forward to this first live broadcast in a while! In my corner, I’ll be introducing the latest technology and entertainment that uses it. There will be a unique host for each day of the week, so let’s have fun together on Wednesday afternoons! ＜John Kabira Comments: Thursday Host＞
https://prcdn.freetls.fastly.net/release_image/25404/1825/25404-1825-86a4ebdfcee5dca4863b60690a72bd29-1080×1080.png John Kabira Actually, this is my first regular afternoon program! I’m excited about J-WAVE’s new afternoon program, featuring three unique and talented hosts. It will (surely) be a different Kabira from the nuance of kickstarting Goooood Moooorning and getting you all going. We’ll liven up your Thursday afternoons with the motto “bright, fun, and easy to understand”! Each day of the week, we’ll unfold a world of unique discoveries, stimulation, and relaxation. Come join us for three relaxing and surprising hours! !