In Loving Memory of Imobu Kasai: The Wisdom of Listening

Life has a way of leaving us with gifts long after the people we love are gone. My dear imobu (uncle) Kasai was one such gift. Although we were not related by blood—he and his wife, my imo, were lifelong friends of my mother—they were family in every sense of the word. They were there for our milestones, our struggles, and our joys, including one of the happiest days of my life: my wedding day.

Imobu and imo traveled all the way from Japan to celebrate with us. It meant the world to me to have them there, and I will never forget the moment my imobu pulled me aside. With his signature warmth, he offered a nugget of wisdom that has shaped my life every day since:

“There is a reason why you were born with two ears but only one mouth.”

He smiled, winked, and walked away, leaving me to ponder the simplicity and brilliance of those words.

The Power of Listening

Imobu’s message resonates with me in so many moments of my daily life—when I’m having dinner with my children, caught in a disagreement with my husband, or even enjoying a hike with a friend. But perhaps the most profound impact of his advice is in my work at Chabot Business Solutions.

In every discovery call or strategy session, I hear his voice in the back of my mind, reminding me of the importance of listening more than I speak. This simple yet profound principle has become a cornerstone of how I approach my clients and has helped shape the philosophy of my business.

Listening deeply allows me to understand not just what a client says but also what they truly need. It’s about hearing the challenges beneath their words, understanding their goals, and recognizing the emotions driving their decisions. And only after truly listening can I craft a strategy that addresses their unique needs.

Applying Imobu’s Wisdom in Business

At Chabot Business Solutions, listening isn’t just a courtesy; it’s a strategy. Here are a few ways my imobu’s advice plays out in my professional life:

1. Discovery Calls: Building Trust Through Silence

When I meet a potential client for the first time, I approach the conversation with curiosity and openness. I let them tell their story—the challenges they face, the dreams they have for their business, and even the fears that keep them up at night. By holding back my own voice, I create space for theirs. This process builds trust and shows that I genuinely care about their success.

For example, during a call with a small business owner, they might mention declining engagement on social media. If I jump in immediately with solutions, I might miss the bigger picture—that their real pain point is feeling overwhelmed and unsupported. By listening deeply, I can uncover not only what they need but how I can meet them where they are.

2. Strategy Sessions: Hearing Beyond the Words

When working with clients, I’ve learned that what they say isn’t always what they mean. Sometimes, it takes a keen ear to hear the frustration or hope hidden in their tone or phrasing. Imobu’s wisdom reminds me to pay attention to these subtleties.

Speaking with a client recently, they shared their frustration with a previous agency they had worked with. While the agency delivered everything they promised, the client didn’t gain any new followers on social media or attract a single new customer. I listened carefully and realized their deeper concern: they hadn’t received any guidance or advice along the way. They felt unsupported and excluded from their own business strategy At Chabot Business Solutions, I provide guidance, and support, becoming your digital marketing best friend to help you achieve and own your success..

3. Long-Term Relationships: Listening as a Foundation

In my experience, the strongest client relationships are built on trust and understanding. Listening deeply isn’t a one-time event; it’s an ongoing practice. By continuing to listen throughout the partnership, I can adapt strategies to meet evolving needs and demonstrate that their success is my priority.

A Legacy of Wisdom

As I reflect on the impact my imobu Kasai has had on my life and career, I am filled with gratitude. His words were simple but carried immense depth, a reminder that the greatest lessons often come in the smallest packages.

He taught me that listening is an act of love and respect, whether in personal relationships or professional settings. His wisdom has not only shaped the way I approach my work but also deepened my connections with the people around me.

I dedicate this post to imobu, with love and gratitude. His wisdom will continue to guide me, and I will strive to honor his memory by listening deeply, thoughtfully, and with an open heart.

May we all remember that we were given two ears and one mouth for a reason. Let us use them wisely.

A Personal Note

Hi, I’m Alyx—a mom, wife, and owner of Chabot Business Solutions, a digital marketing agency passionate about helping businesses thrive. Balancing family and work keeps me on my toes, but the lessons from loved ones like my imobu remind me to stay grounded and connected. I love building genuine relationships and would be thrilled to chat—about business, family, or life—over coffee, tea, or even a good story about someone who inspired you. Let’s connect!