Akari on creating space for hobbies and writing after switching to voice chats

OnlineBound Podcast #79

Akari on creating space for hobbies and writing after switching to voice chats

June 18, 2026

Like many online teachers, Akari was teaching 1:1 lessons through a platform and getting totally burned out. She had created a solid foundation for her business, but needed a change.

When she discovered the idea of teaching through voice chats, she didn’t hesitate. She tried it out with a new student and it was a great experience for both of them.

Now her students are getting better results, and she prefers giving feedback asynchronously. She has a reasonable schedule and more time to spend on her hobbies, writing, and podcast.

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Listen to the episode

Until you try, we don’t know the result, so first you should try. ~ AkariClick To Tweet

Links and resources

- Mochifika website
- Mochifika Instagram

About Akari

I started teaching Japanese online in 2020 when I lived in Germany, during the pandemic. I originally enjoyed learning various languages and had taken online lessons, so I thought I’d try teaching Japanese myself. In 2023, I moved to Sweden, and my lifestyle changed a lot. Until 2024, I relied on a platform, teaching 1:1 lessons using Skype. However, I gradually lost my free time and experienced burnout and depression.

I had somewhat predicted this situation, so I bought a course on “Creating an online course in 5 days” and prepared video courses. But, I couldn’t actually finish them in 5 days, became overwhelmed by the preparation, and abandoned the plan. I searched on Google for sustainable teaching methods and ways to earn a stable income, and that’s when I discovered Elena. I learned about teaching using voice chat and how to sell programs, and immediately adopted these methods. Gradually, I graduated from the platform, and now I get students myself without using any platform. I’m happy again that I have time for my hobby and my family.

My life motto is “I won’t know anything unless I try.”

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OnlineBound is created and produced by Elena Mutonono and edited by Jessica Gardner. Podcast music by James Martin.