Also agree with most of what was said during this very enjoyable interview.
The only thing I can honestly take issue with is the 'white knuckle' IP approach. More and more publishers and developers are selling these precious 'IP's' to other companies or smaller publishers for a quick buck.
I believe we are in the midst of a huge shift in the industry as a whole! (Music, Movies, Games, ect.) Where the corporate model just plain doesn't work! Who needs a music label when, you as a individual have soo many online alternatives to making more money then you could ever make under a label. Same apply's to books and ebooks.
(Corporations still make boatloads of money)
But never before has the person with a vision have so many options for his/her ideas. The OLD corporate model (that you are taking about) is rapidly failing. Having a hard time even producing some profit. (in any industry besides a few select retail outlets)
I mean, what is the point or purpose of a publisher at this point? What is the point of corporations at all? If you have a great idea (Lets say anime) do it! Sidestep those guys and upload your anime on one of thousands of outlets. If its good you will become more famous as an individual and probably have more money to boot.
Also, Japanese communication breakdown is probably the most prevalent out of any culture ever. But not with its own culture. But with other cultures. Let me explain, Ubisoft makes a title and it sells great in all territories including japan. However, every single game I can think of with heavy Japanese development has completely and utterly failed around the world. They are only in-touch with there core Japanese audience. Failing to evolve as a whole I think has put them in this position. Or failure to communicate in general with there international audience has lead to this.
I'd say the Western culture has a better adaptive approach and changes based on its consumers needs. As Japanese consumers are just loyal, having nothing really to do with communication within the corporation itself. Famitsu is one example, often rating games very highly before they even play them.