Episode 01
Why Japanese Guitars Matter
How one guitar turns into a lifelong chase for ESP, Tokai, Greco, Navigator, Burny and the rest.
Coming SoonThe history, the mystery and the passion of Japanese guitars
MIJ Confidential Theme
The Show
Featured Episodes
Deep dives into the instruments, makers, eras, and obsessions that define the Made in Japan collector world.
Episode 02
Catalogs, Myths & Unicorns
Why old Japanese catalogs matter, what collectors look for, and how the legends get started.
Coming SoonEpisode 03
What Makes MIJ Special?
Build quality, wood, factories, eras, pricing, and why the market keeps waking up.
Coming SoonWhere to Follow
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Latest Episode
The Book
MIJ Confidential
MIJ Confidential is a personal journey into the history, mystery and passion of Japanese guitars. Part memoir, part road story and part confession, it explores how a simple interest became a lifelong obsession. Honest, funny and written from inside the chase, it is a book about far more than guitars.
A personal journey through the world of Japanese guitars
Stories of collecting, discovery and obsession
Honest reflections on the people and experiences along the way
Written for collectors, players and anyone drawn to uncommon instruments
The Store
Merch & Collectibles
Limited-run pieces for the collector who appreciates the details.
Apparel
MIJ Confidential Tee
$45Accessories
Collector's Enamel Pin Set
$28Art Print
Vintage Japan Poster Print
$65Accessories
MIJ Confidential Tote Bag
$35
Derek RodgersHost & Author
About the Host
Derek Rodgers
Derek Rodgers is the host of MIJ Confidential and author of the MIJ Confidential book. A lifelong guitar obsessive, he has owned hundreds of guitars and carries deep knowledge of the Made in Japan world — especially the rare, overlooked, and under-documented pieces that collectors chase.
Based in Calgary, Derek runs Tsunami Guitars, a dedicated Japanese guitar dealership, and Luthify, a custom instrument marketplace. His collection spans ESP, Navigator, Greco, Tokai, Momose, Crews Maniac Sound, and beyond.
This show is for people who want more than surface-level guitar content. It is about the stories, history, feel, tone, market, and mystery behind instruments that deserve a lot more attention than they get.
Rare Japanese guitar showcases
Vintage catalog breakdowns
Collector interviews & buyer stories
ESP, Navigator, Tokai, Greco, Burny
Deviser, Headway & boutique makers
Market values & authenticity
Myths, restoration, fakes & finds
Behind-the-scenes book updates
Work TogetherGuests &
Guests &
Sponsors
Have a rare MIJ guitar, collection, story, shop, luthier background, or brand that fits the show? MIJ Confidential is open for guest spots, sponsor placements, collaborations, and book-related media.
This is a niche show for a passionate audience. If your product or story belongs in front of serious collectors, reach out.