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Before We Get There
Before We Get There
Author: Nicholas Braman
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Description
Before We Get There is a podcast about resilience, pivots, and the unfinished paths we all walk. Host Nicholas Braman sits down with creatives, athletes, chefs, entrepreneurs, and others from Singapore and across Asia to surface the moments that reshape them, what stops working, what becomes clearer, and what keeps them moving forward before anything feels settled. New episodes every other Thursday. Learn more at https://nicholasbraman.com/podcast.
38 Episodes
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In this special Christmas episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman interviews professional clown Shanice Stanislaus. Shanice shares her unique journey from being a serious student to discovering her passion for clowning, despite cultural expectations. They discuss the challenges she faced gaining acceptance back home, how she found validation abroad, and the importance of joy and playfulness in life. Shanice also talks about her mission to introduce clowning to more people in Singapore, the barriers to creativity, and how she helps others reconnect with their inner joy. Tune in for a heartfelt discussion on embracing one's true self and the transformative power of humor.
Shanice's links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shanicestanislaus/
Website: https://creativesinspirit.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 Meet Shanice Stanislaus: The Professional Clown
03:00 Discovering Clowning at NYU
06:52 Balancing a Marketing Job and Clowning
08:46 The Turning Point: Clown School in France
19:01 Challenges and Successes in Singapore
22:07 Facing Rejection and Perseverance
26:27 Finding Validation Abroad
31:17 Teaching Clowning in Singapore
39:12 Encouraging Playfulness in Children
42:03 Future Aspirations and Closing Remarks
In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman interviews Neonomora, an award-winning indie musician from Jakarta, Indonesia. Known for her dark and electrifying sound, Neonomora shares her experiences and influences, including the impact of motherhood, her musical evolution, and the challenges of being an outcast. She reflects on her early life in various countries, her struggle with bullying, and how these shaped her identity as an artist. Neonomora also discusses the pressure of maintaining success, the importance of genuine artistic expression, and her upcoming album, inspired by significant life changes, including becoming a mother and her parents' divorce during the pandemic.
Neonomora's links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neonomora/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0wETOVaHW3AJa8mB6zFo2F?si=mGSOZOdwSaCgFFfNoHuaKg
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NEONOMORA
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 Music Artist Neonomra
03:28 Early Musical Influences and Synesthesia
07:30 Parental Expectations and Career Challenges
10:16 Living Abroad and Cultural Experiences
14:34 Artistic Growth and Musical Journey
20:15 The Artist's Journey: Embracing the Present
24:42 The Evolution of an Artist: From Dark to Bright
28:58 New Beginnings: Motherhood and Inspiration
36:05 Adapting to Change: Lessons from Different Places
40:44 Looking Forward: Future Projects and Inspirations
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























