Before We Get There

In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman interviews Cassandra Ong, founder of Otter Half marketing agency. Cassandra shares her experience of being laid off, which led her to start her own business. They discuss the creation of Ottie's Fishy Business, a marketing card game for kids, and the challenges and successes of running her own agency. Additionally, Cassandra talks about the differences between working in startups and MNCs, the importance of work-life balance, and how building a personal brand on LinkedIn has opened new doors for her professionally. The conversation also delves into the personal aspects of navigating work and family life, especially as a mother and business owner. Cassandra's links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cassandraong/  Otter Half Website: https://www.otterhalf.co/  Marketing Card Game: https://www.otterhalf.co/otties-fishy-business  Podcast links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2h9gsrWKH9C1KY1OzR12kr?si=2a4d19970632465f       Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/before-we-get-there/id1775182252 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beforewegettherepodcast/    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nicholasbraman Website: https://nicholasbraman.com/podcast   00:00 Introducing the Podcast and Today's Guest 02:00 Cassandra Ong's Marketing Card Game for Kids 08:56 Transitioning from Startups to MNCs 15:43 Navigating Career Challenges and Layoffs 21:54 Starting Otter Half: Overcoming Self-Doubt 25:02 Navigating Sales and Real Business Challenges 34:37 Balancing Work and Family Life 38:48 Looking Ahead: Future Goals and Aspirations

In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman welcomes Aisyah Rafaee, Singapore's first Olympian in rowing, who competed at the Rio and Paris games. Aisyah shares her journey from discovering rowing in secondary school to training in Australia and the challenges faced leading up to the Olympics. She discusses the mental and physical demands of high-level competition, overcoming identity struggles post-retirement, and her recent decision to come out of retirement for the 2024 Olympics. Now an entrepreneur and coach, Aisyah reflects on transitioning her skills and experiences into new ventures while emphasizing the importance of mental skills and adaptability. The conversation provides valuable insights into resilience, the power of community support, and finding purpose beyond athletic achievements. Aisyah's links: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ariesyah/  Website: https://www.3hpathlete.com  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/17bbRk72ZW/  Podcast links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2h9gsrWKH9C1KY1OzR12kr?si=2a4d19970632465f       Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/before-we-get-there/id1775182252 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beforewegettherepodcast/    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nicholasbraman Website: https://nicholasbraman.com/podcast 00:00 Introducing Aisyah - Singapore's first Olympic rower 05:23 Discovering Rowing 08:24 Family Influence and Competitiveness 16:46 Balancing Life and Rowing 21:56 Training Alone and Overcoming Bullying 25:22 Experiencing the Olympics and Media Pressure 27:42 Struggles with Retirement and Identity 31:56 Finding New Purpose and Love 36:21 Deciding to Compete Again 39:47 Building a Business and Coaching 42:22 Future Goals and Closing Remarks

In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman converses with Rohit Jha, founder and CEO of Transcelestial. The startup aims to revolutionize global internet connectivity through space-based laser technology. Rohit shares his fascinating journey from growing up in a small industrial town in India to establishing a groundbreaking tech company in Singapore. The discussion dives into the startup's ambitious plans, which include creating a 'ring around the planet' to transmit internet from space, tackling engineering challenges, and the motivations driving Rohit's deep space vision. Listeners will gain insights into the hurdles of building a deep tech company, the evolving startup ecosystem in Asia, and the future of interstellar communication. Rohit's links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rohitrj/  X: https://x.com/jharohit  Transcelestial Website: https://transcelestial.com/  Podcast links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2h9gsrWKH9C1KY1OzR12kr?si=2a4d19970632465f       Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/before-we-get-there/id1775182252 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beforewegettherepodcast/    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nicholasbraman Website: https://nicholasbraman.com/podcast 00:00 Rohit's Journey and Inspiration 08:16 Challenges and Learnings in Building a Startup 17:34 The Asian Startup Ecosystem 19:22 Rohit's Early Life and Education 26:54 Transition to Singapore and Corporate Life 31:19 The Birth of Transcelestial 38:02 Future Goals and Vision 41:35 Conclusion and Contact Information

In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman interviews Singaporean stand-up comedian Jacky Ng. Jacky discusses his career journey, including performing across Southeast Asia and at major festivals, such as the Melbourne Comedy Festival. They cover topics like his joke writing process, handling hecklers, memorable bombing experiences, and the growth of the comedy scene in Singapore. Jacky also shares insights on balancing live performances and social media, the significance of local references in his comedy, and his aspirations for the future.  Jacky's links: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jackyngcomedy/  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jakachuu  Website: https://www.jacky.sg/  Podcast links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2h9gsrWKH9C1KY1OzR12kr?si=2a4d19970632465f       Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/before-we-get-there/id1775182252 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beforewegettherepodcast/    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nicholasbraman Website: https://nicholasbraman.com/podcast 00:00 Introduction and Opening Jokes 02:49 Bombing Stories and Handling Tough Crowds 05:23 Starting Out in Comedy with Fakkah Fuzz 09:04 The Writing Process and Open Mics 16:44 Local References and International Performances 21:02 The Evolution of Standup Comedy in Singapore 29:36 The Personal Journey of a Standup Comedian 36:20 Navigating Corporate Gigs 40:48 Future Goals and Aspirations

In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman sits down with Naomi Black, who went viral in 2025 for rejecting a first date at Singapore's Lau Pa Sat Hawker Center. Despite facing immense online backlash, Naomi reveals that her story is about much more than a controversial decision. With a diverse background in modeling, real estate, and the culinary arts, Naomi discusses her career pivots, personal challenges, and the importance of staying true to oneself. Our conversation goes into her encounters with online bullying, her resilience, and her advice on maintaining standards and saying no when necessary. We also discuss the Lau Pa Sat first date story, her other dating standards, and what her ideal first date would be. Tune in to learn more about Naomi's inspiring journey and her advocacy for women's confidence and independence. Naomi's links: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naomiblackk/  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@naomiblack001  Merch: https://naomiblackmerch.myshopify.com/  Podcast links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2h9gsrWKH9C1KY1OzR12kr?si=2a4d19970632465f       Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/before-we-get-there/id1775182252 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beforewegettherepodcast/    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nicholasbraman Website: https://nicholasbraman.com/podcast 00:00 Introduction to Naomi Black 01:46 The Viral Lau Pa Sat First Date Controversy 05:59 Handling Online Backlash 14:53 Naomi's Diverse Career Path 21:41 Starting a Culinary Journey 25:43 Returning to Singapore: Reflections and Recovery 27:03 Experiencing Racism Abroad 30:02 Lessons from Tough Experiences 36:30 Future Goals and Aspirations 42:25 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell

In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman talks with Parul Sharma, an author juggling her corporate life and writing career. Parul shares her journey from a corporate worker to a published author, discussing the emotional and logistical challenges along the way. The conversation delves into her writing process, the agony of not being able to write, and the inspiration behind her book '17 Morris Road.' Parul also reveals her thoughts on writing from personal experience, dealing with self-doubt, and her desire for reader love. They also explore the nuances of homesickness versus nostalgia, the influence of research in her work, and how the lockdown provided her the mental space to write again.  Parul's links: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parul/  Amazon: https://a.co/d/dhHOPw4  Goodreads:https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2970057.Parul_Sharma  Podcast links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2h9gsrWKH9C1KY1OzR12kr?si=2a4d19970632465f       Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/before-we-get-there/id1775182252 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beforewegettherepodcast/    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nicholasbraman Website: https://nicholasbraman.com/before-we-get-there-podcast/    00:00 Introducing Parul Sharma 04:03 Exploring Themes of 17, Morris  Road 08:35 The Journey to Becoming a Published Author 11:12 Balancing Life and Writing 16:09 The Emotional Drive Behind Writing 21:23 Writing for an Audience of One 25:15 The Challenge of Abandoning Projects 33:11 Moving Between Corporate Life and Writing 40:22 Future Aspirations and Upcoming Works

In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman delves into the life and journey of Bow Kajeeporn Techataveekijkul, from @BowieHoneyBaby. A content creator active on Instagram, Threads, and TikTok, Bow balances her online presence with a full-time corporate job. We talk about her experiences growing up in Thailand, studying in Japan, and working in Singapore, as well as her journey in becoming a prominent influencer among the Thai community interested in Singapore. The conversation covers managing online negativity, tips for content creation, and the balance of authenticity and safety in an increasingly digital world. Bow also discusses her passion for food and travel, insights into the evolving landscape of social media, and how her content continues to bring value to her followers. Bow's links: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bowiehoneybaby/  Boring Singapore: https://www.facebook.com/BoringSG/  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bowiehoneybaby  Threads: https://www.threads.com/@bowiehoneybaby  Podcast links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2h9gsrWKH9C1KY1OzR12kr?si=2a4d19970632465f       Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/before-we-get-there/id1775182252 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beforewegettherepodcast/    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nicholasbraman Website: https://nicholasbraman.com/before-we-get-there-podcast/  00:00 Introduction to Bow T 11:45 Balancing Content Creation with a Full-Time Job 16:15 Living in Different Countries: Thailand, Japan, and Singapore 21:52 Job Hunting Struggles and Resilience 23:47 Exploring Singapore's Food Scene 25:04 Missing Home and Thai Cuisine 27:40 Reconnecting with Old Friends 32:40 Handling Negativity and Safety Concerns 39:03 Future Goals and Reflections 41:43 Where to Find Bow's Content

Join host Nicholas Braman on Before We Get There as he delves into the culinary journey of Anthony Yeoh, chef-owner of Summer Hill Restaurant in Singapore. Anthony discusses his inspirations, the concept behind his 'brunch trolley' serving French comfort food in dim sum style, and the evolution of Summer Hill from a takeaway joint to a full-fledged restaurant. He shares insights on the challenges facing the F&B industry in Singapore, including the rise of home-based food businesses as the new hawkers, navigating changing customer behaviors, and maintaining culinary traditions while evolving to meet modern tastes. Anthony also offers a sneak peek into future themes for his restaurant's menu and his hopes for himself and the industry over the next five years. Anthony's links: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/antyeoh/  Summer Hill IG: https://www.instagram.com/summerhill.sg/  Summer Hill website: https://summerhill.sg/  Podcast links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2h9gsrWKH9C1KY1OzR12kr?si=2a4d19970632465f       Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/before-we-get-there/id1775182252 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beforewegettherepodcast/    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nicholasbraman Website: https://nicholasbraman.com/before-we-get-there-podcast/    00:00 Podcast Introduction: Meet Anthony Yeoh 03:21 The Origins of Summer Hill Restaurant 06:56 Journey to Becoming a Chef 18:46 Challenges in the F&B Industry 23:08 Adapting Business Strategies Post-Pandemic 28:47 Balancing Creativity and Business in Menu Planning 34:16 Future of Hawker Culture and Home-Based Businesses 38:38 Looking Ahead: Hopes for the Future 40:51 Conclusion and Social Media Links

In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman interviews Nuray Istiqbal, formerly known as Rae Lil Black, who transitioned from being a star in the adult film industry to a practicing Muslim. During their conversation, Nuray shares insights about discovering and embracing Islam, why she doesn't regret her former career, what her hopes are for the future, and much more. The discussion also touches on her perspectives on regret, dealing with negative comments, and what she enjoyed about the adult film industry. Nuray sheds light on her personal growth journey, highlighting the importance of community, faith, and self-improvement. Nuray's links: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raelilblack/  New Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nuray.istiqbal/  TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@raelilblack.official  Podcast links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2h9gsrWKH9C1KY1OzR12kr?si=2a4d19970632465f       Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/before-we-get-there/id1775182252 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beforewegettherepodcast/    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nicholasbraman Website: https://nicholasbraman.com/before-we-get-there-podcast/  00:00 Introduction and Personal Reflections 01:56 Muay Thai Journey 04:59 Discovering Islam 12:22 Embracing Faith and Community 14:00 Handling Criticism and Regret 19:17 Cultural and Culinary Preferences 21:13 Struggles and Realizations 23:45 Misconceptions About the Adult Film Industry 30:12 Embracing Islam and Personal Growth 40:41 Future Aspirations and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman speaks with Vivian Lim, a community builder for TEDx Singapore and Gen. They explore Vivian's philosophy on community building, the unique culture within TEDx, and the challenges of sustaining volunteer-driven communities. Vivian shares her experiences working with diverse teams and creating impactful events, delving into how her view on community has evolved over the years. They also discuss the importance of Asian narratives in storytelling, balancing multiple projects, and the future of community-driven initiatives. The conversation highlights the significance of human connection, continuous personal growth, and the excitement of fostering new conversations and ideas. Vivian's links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vivian-lim/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vivianne.lim/  IdeaCo: https://www.theideaco.org/  Podcast links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2h9gsrWKH9C1KY1OzR12kr?si=2a4d19970632465f       Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/before-we-get-there/id1775182252 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beforewegettherepodcast/    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nicholasbraman Website: https://nicholasbraman.com/before-we-get-there-podcast/  00:00 Introduction to the Power of Community 01:39 Defining Community with Vivian Lim 04:21 Challenges in Community Building 06:43 Vivian's Journey with TEDx 14:39 The Birth of Gen and Its Mission 20:26 Balancing Multiple Projects 22:46 Observations on Singaporean Ideas 30:47 Creating Impactful Content 40:29 Reflections and Future Aspirations

In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman sits down with multidisciplinary artist Sarah Choo Jing. Sarah delves into her creative process, focusing on her project 'Accelerated Intimacy' and her experiences connecting with strangers in hotel rooms. The conversation spans her philosophical approach to art, the impact of technology and AI on creativity, and the challenges of pursuing an art career in Singapore. They also discuss the critical role of art education and the importance of representing diverse, local voices in the artistic community. Tune in for an insightful discussion about finding authenticity and connection through art. Sarah's links: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahchoojing/?hl=en  Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/sarahchoojing  More links: https://lnk.bio/sarahchoojing  Podcast links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2h9gsrWKH9C1KY1OzR12kr?si=2a4d19970632465f       Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/before-we-get-there/id1775182252 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beforewegettherepodcast/    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nicholasbraman Website: https://nicholasbraman.com/before-we-get-there-podcast/  00:00 Introduction and Meet Sarah Choo Jing 04:14 Artistic Process and Inspirations 11:34 Balancing Art and Career 17:11 Impact of Social Media and Technology 19:30 Generative AI and Art 24:17 Themes of Isolation in Art 30:50 Capturing Inspiration and Process 37:32 The Importance of Art Education 41:42 Future Aspirations and Conclusion

In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman sits down with Heema Izzati, a young and burgeoning musician with two solo songs on Spotify and a forthcoming EP. Hema discusses her creative process, the shift from perfection to expression, and how she navigates challenges like writer's block and performance nerves. The conversation delves into her journey from classical music to singer-songwriter, the importance of authenticity in her music, and the balance of managing school and a growing music career. Heema also shares insights into the influence of her diverse musical background, the role of audience feedback, and her aspirations for the future. Heema's links: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heemaizzati/  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heemaizzati?_t=ZS-8xSrCnckGYr&_r=1  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1ESHrcgAjNtv4Lkx08ZKOz?si=Eegd4asuQPaFa-U4UsNfnQ  Podcast links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2h9gsrWKH9C1KY1OzR12kr?si=2a4d19970632465f       Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/before-we-get-there/id1775182252 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beforewegettherepodcast/    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nicholasbraman Website: https://nicholasbraman.com/before-we-get-there-podcast/    00:00 Introduction to Heema Izzati 01:40 Heema's Creative Process and Writer's Block 05:08 From Classical Music to Songwriting 11:40 Balancing Music and Life 22:18 Nerves and Performing 26:12 The TEDx Experience 32:13 Balancing Studies, Performing, and Life 42:08 Future Aspirations and Conclusion

In this insightful conversation, Nicholas welcomes a guest who shares her observations on different parenting styles between Asian and Western parents, emphasizing the implications on children's development and future workplace behavior. The guest recounts her own upbringing in China, her transformative years in Germany, and her journey through corporate life and entrepreneurship. Importantly, she discusses her venture Zuzu, aimed at improving female sexual wellbeing, and her subsequent efforts with the Elevate Group to support professional women. The dialogue navigates through cross-cultural business insights, challenges in empowering women, and personal anecdotes, providing a layered understanding of societal dynamics and individual growth. JingJin's links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jingjin-liu/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jingjin_liu/  Elevate: https://elevateasia.org/  Zazazu: https://zazazu.vip/  Podcast links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2h9gsrWKH9C1KY1OzR12kr?si=2a4d19970632465f       Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/before-we-get-there/id1775182252 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beforewegettherepodcast/    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nicholasbraman Website: https://nicholasbraman.com/before-we-get-there-podcast/    00:00 Introduction and Greetings 00:15 Parenting Styles: East vs. West 02:55 Personal Reflections on Parenting 04:05 Growing Up in China 11:39 Moving to Germany 20:32 Entrepreneurial Journey Begins 26:18 Lessons from Entrepreneurship 33:36 Founding Zazazu: A New Venture 35:17 Empowering Women Through Sexual Wellbeing 45:20 The Role of Helpers in Career Success 53:59 Navigating Criticism and Defining Success 58:53 Future Goals and Personal Growth

In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman sits down with Ariff Zin, Head Chef at Rumah Makan Minang, one of Singapore's oldest Nasi Padang restaurants. Ariff shares insights into his lifelong journey in the food industry, from growing up in his family's restaurant  to his intensive training at the Culinary Institute of America  and formative experiences in New York kitchens. He discusses the significant challenges and triumphs of modernizing a beloved traditional establishment, the delicate balance of family dynamics in business, and his passion for preserving and educating people about authentic Minangkabau cuisine. Ariff also delves into his inspirations, including the late Anthony Bourdain, and his ambitious vision for the future of Rumah Makan Minang, including expansion and embracing new technologies. Tune in to hear about his unique journey of dedication, innovation, and culinary heritage. Ariff Zin's links: Minang's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/minang.sg/  Restaurant Website: https://minang.sg/  Minand's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rumah.makan.minang  Podcast links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2h9gsrWKH9C1KY1OzR12kr?si=2a4d19970632465f       Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/before-we-get-there/id1775182252 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beforewegettherepodcast/    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nicholasbraman Website: https://nicholasbraman.com/before-we-get-there-podcast/   

In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman sits down with Malaysian actress Joyce Harn. Known for her work in 'Fly by Night,' 'Budak Flat,' and various other shows and movies, Joyce shares insights into her acting career, passion for judo, and the challenges she faces in the industry. She discusses her upbringing, educational journey, and the audition experiences that have shaped her. Joyce also delves into her aspirations for the future, including potential directing projects, and her dream roles. Tune in to hear about her unique journey of balancing different facets of her life and career. Joyce Harn's links: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joyceharn/  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ms.joyceharn  Podcast links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2h9gsrWKH9C1KY1OzR12kr?si=2a4d19970632465f       Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/before-we-get-there/id1775182252 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beforewegettherepodcast/    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nicholasbraman Website: https://nicholasbraman.com/before-we-get-there-podcast/    00:00 Joyce Harn's Acting Journey 05:17 Facing Rejections and Auditions 13:55 Experiences in the Malaysian Film Industry 18:44 Challenges and Dynamics on Set 25:21 Acting Techniques and Practices 29:18 Judo Journey and Competitions 33:50 Stunt Work and Action Scenes 36:56 Directing Aspirations 38:38 Future Goals and Social Media

In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman interviews Yeo Min, an author, pastry shop owner, and co-founder of the Museum of Food Singapore. Yeo Min shares her journey from studying social work to becoming passionate about Chinese pastries. She discusses the challenges of maintaining traditional food heritage while making it profitable, the process of writing her first book on Chinese pastries, and her various projects aimed at preserving and educating people about local food heritage. The conversation covers her childhood food experiences, the transition from a nine-to-five job to pastry school, and the societal perceptions of food valuation. Yeo Min also talks about her future goal of establishing a physical space for her Museum of Food to bring communities together and enhance cultural understanding. Yeo Min's links: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yeomyyyy/    Pastories: https://www.instagram.com/pastoriessg/    Food Museum of Singapore: https://www.http://foodmuseumsg.com/    Podcast links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2h9gsrWKH9C1KY1OzR12kr?si=2a4d19970632465f       Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/before-we-get-there/id1775182252 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beforewegettherepodcast/    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nicholasbraman Website: https://nicholasbraman.com/before-we-get-there-podcast/    00:00 Introducing Yeo Min: Author and Pastry Chef 01:33 Understanding Chinese Pastries 05:27 A Journey into Cooking 12:46 Returning to Singapore and Career Choices 14:59 The Decision to Pursue Pastry School 22:01 Challenges in Traditional Pastry Shops 24:37 Balancing Custom Cakes and Traditional Pastries 30:16 The Importance of Education 39:06 Publishing her Book 43:39 Future Goals and Conclusion

In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman talks with Opera Tang, a drag artist and performer, about her transition from a tech sales career to full-time drag performing. Opera shares her inspiring journey, starting from her retrenchment to finding her artistic voice by reconnecting with her Chinese heritage. They discuss the balance between art and commerce, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the importance of staying true to oneself. Opera also opens up about her future goals, including her desire to engage with the elderly community and make a positive impact on society through her art. Tune in for a heartfelt and engaging conversation filled with valuable insights on creativity, resilience, and personal growth.   Opera's links: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/opera.tang/    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theoperatang  Linktree: https://linktr.ee/opera.tang  Podcast links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2h9gsrWKH9C1KY1OzR12kr?si=2a4d19970632465f     Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/before-we-get-there/id1775182252 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beforewegettherepodcast/  Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nicholasbraman Website: https://nicholasbraman.com/before-we-get-there-podcast/     00:00 Introduction 01:08 Meet Opera Tang: Drag Artist and Storyteller 01:54 From Tech Sales to Full-Time Drag 03:59 Building a Personal Brand 19:29 Navigating Imposter Syndrome 23:35 The Power of Delusional Optimism 24:45 Exciting Collaborations and Partnerships 29:54 Balancing Work and Rest 38:48 Future Aspirations and Community Impact 43:09 Emotional Reflections and Future Goals 47:17 Conclusion and Farewell

In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman interviews Rob Lilwall, a professional adventurer, author, and motivational speaker. They discuss Rob's transformative three-year bicycle journey from Siberia to London, his struggles with shyness, the challenges and motivations driving his expeditions, and the lessons learned along the way. Rob shares insights from his adventure, including the importance of resilience and the idea of 'never quitting on a bad day,' and reflects on his subsequent journeys, personal growth, and what the future holds. Tune in to explore Rob’s incredible story of overcoming self-doubt, embracing challenges, and finding purpose through adventure. Rob's links: Website: https://roblilwall.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roblilwall/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roblilwall/  Podcast links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2h9gsrWKH9C1KY1OzR12kr?si=2a4d19970632465f   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/before-we-get-there/id1775182252 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beforewegettherepodcast/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nicholasbraman Website: https://nicholasbraman.com/before-we-get-there-podcast/    00:00 Meet Rob Lilwall: Adventurer and Author 03:04 The Start of an Epic Adventure 09:27 Public Speaking and Financial Challenges 19:37 Unexpected Encounters and Opportunities 24:31 New Expeditions and Career Beginnings 30:19 Publicity and Becoming a Professional Adventurer 34:17 Lessons from a Stressful Journey 37:57 A Healing Expedition in the Desert 44:33 Future Plans and Reflections 47:29 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman interviews Kenneth Tay, a BJJ black belt and co-founder of Trinity Combat Sports in Suzhou, China. Kenneth shares his journey of living in China and Australia, dealing with mental health issues, and finding solace in martial arts. He discusses how he transitioned from a career in F&B and tech startups to founding the first Jiu-jitsu gym in Suzhou, and eventually coaching full-time in Singapore at Field Assembly. Kenneth highlights the importance of sports in his life, his experiences training in China, and the growth of the BJJ community in Asia. Kenneth's links: Instragram: https://www.instagram.com/pandaramic/  Trinity Combat Sports: https://www.instagram.com/trinitycombatsports/  Field Assembly: https://www.instagram.com/fieldassembly/  Podcast links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2h9gsrWKH9C1KY1OzR12kr?si=2a4d19970632465f   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/before-we-get-there/id1775182252 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beforewegettherepodcast/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nicholasbraman Website: https://nicholasbraman.com/before-we-get-there-podcast/  00:00 Introduction and Personal Journey 01:32 Living and Studying in China 11:41 Career Beginnings and Transitions 19:34 Discovering Martial Arts 23:56 Connecting in Suzhou 25:56 Overcoming Depression 29:14 Founding a Gym in Suzhou 38:43 Transitioning to Full-Time Coaching 44:45 Looking Ahead: Goals and Aspirations 46:37 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman speaks with Sanjay Jegatheeson, the creator of Singapore's first meadery. They delve into Sanjay's journey from discovering mead in London to establishing his own business alongside his full-time career. Sanjay discusses the challenges and victories in introducing mead to a largely unaware market and his aspirations for Lion City Meadery to expand beyond Southeast Asia. The conversation also covers Sanjay's dual-role juggling business, a full-time event production job, family, and personal hobbies like jiu-jitsu and golf. They touch on important aspects of entrepreneurship, such as consumer education, the role of a supportive business partner, and balancing multiple priorities. Sanjay's links: Lion City Meadery: https://www.instagram.com/lioncitymeadery/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/am3thystsanjay?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==  Podcast links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2h9gsrWKH9C1KY1OzR12kr?si=2a4d19970632465f   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/before-we-get-there/id1775182252 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beforewegettherepodcast/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nicholasbraman Website: https://nicholasbraman.com/before-we-get-there-podcast/  00:00 Meet Sanjay Jegatheeson 02:16 Starting the Meadery 06:05 Challenges and Successes 14:46 Balancing Work and Family 24:59 Challenges of Business Operations 28:47 Balancing Creativity and Business 32:31 Parenting and Career: A Personal Journey 34:47 Inspiring the Next Generation 41:48 The Therapeutic Side of Jiu Jitsu 44:02 Future Goals and Aspirations 45:58 Where to Find Lion City Meadery