Who We Are with Rachel Lim

Recorded live at CLOSER in Singapore, this was one of those rare sessions that reminded me of the heart behind CLOSER: to hold space for real, honest, soul-level conversations. In this conversation, Steven Bartlett opens up about his journey. He shares how he grew up as an outsider, built one of Europe’s fastest-growing companies, chose to walk away at the peak, and learned to find a fuller life beyond achievement. We also speak about what he is building today, and the lessons he has learned about making good decisions, building trust, and steering clear of the traps that hold people back. This episode is not the full conversation, but it offers a glimpse into some of the moments that moved us most. I hope something you hear in it stays with you, and maybe even shifts something in you, the way it did for me & so many others. To everyone who joined us that afternoon at CLOSER, thank you for leaning in with so much openness and heart. And to those tuning in now, I hope this conversation touches you the way it did all of us in the room. Take a breath, lean in, and come a little closer. Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction 00:01:31 The Childhood That Shaped Steven Bartlett 00:05:58 Delusion and Self Belief as Prerequisites for Success 00:09:28 Choosing Uncertainty Over Certain Misery 00:13:48 Becoming a Plan A Thinker 00:15:36 Stacking Skills to Increase Your Value 00:20:27 What Steven Looks For When Investing 00:25:48 Hiring and Why People Are Your Greatest Asset 00:31:36 Breaking Paper Walls and Asking Why 00:36:41 Nir Eyal on Overcoming Distraction 00:40:54 The 16 Chip Rule for Prioritizing Time 00:43:21 Working With Failure and Experimentation 00:50:23 Steven’s Most Valuable Mistake 00:53:05 Finding Your Version of a Well Lived Life Follow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/ Follow Steven Bartlett here: https://www.instagram.com/steven/

Infertility is more common than we think; and it doesn’t just mean struggling to get pregnant. It can also mean waiting for years. Losing a pregnancy. Trying, again and again, with no answers. It’s a kind of grief that lives quietly in the background of so many lives…and often, no one talks about it.In this heartfelt conversation, I sit with Shumin Lin; litigator at Drew & Napier and President of Fertility Support SG. She began IVF at 29 and experienced miscarriage before becoming a mother of two. She shares what it was like to navigate this path before anyone around her was talking about it, and how that pain led her to build a safe space for others.This episode is for anyone who’s walked this road, or loves someone who has. Because this, too, is motherhood. And no one should have to walk it alone.00:00 Introduction01:31 Shumin’s Journey: Facing Infertility at 2904:59 Redefining Infertility: What It Really Means05:48 Understanding IVF and the Emotional Toll07:58 Rachel’s Story: Confronting Secondary Infertility09:03 The Unspoken Grief: Shumin’s Miscarriage Journey17:00 The Partner’s Role in Navigating Loss19:08 Letting Go of Control and Unlearning Stigmas23:27 How to Support a Friend Walking Through Infertility28:37 The Weight of Expectations and Societal Pressure on Women32:16 The Heart Behind Fertility Support Singapore38:15 Launching Singapore’s First Workplace Fertility Guide43:43 A Message to Her Younger Self: Hold On46:00 Final ReflectionsFollow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/Follow Fertility Support Singapore here:https://www.instagram.com/fertilitysupport.sg/Find out more about Fertility Support Singapore here: https://fertilitysupport.sg/

In one of her most open conversations yet, award-winning actress Rebecca Lim reflects on the lessons she’s learned from heartbreak, motherhood, and life in the public eye.From childhood dreams and early imposter syndrome to the role that changed everything, Rebecca shares the sacrifices, self-doubt, and resilience it’s taken to sustain a career under constant scrutiny. She opens up about friendship changes, public criticism, and the private grief of losing her father, and how each chapter shaped the woman she is today.We also explore motherhood’s transformative impact, the realities of ‘mom guilt,’ and her evolving definitions of beauty, success, and boundaries.This is Rebecca Lim as you’ve never heard her before; honest, deeply human, and full of wisdom for anyone learning to let go, start again, and find peace.00:00 Introduction01:17 Rapid Fire with Rebecca Lim05:24 Meet Rebecca: Childhood, School Days & First Acting Dreams09:39 Battling Imposter Syndrome in the Early Years14:43 Facing Negativity, Criticism & Self-Doubt15:53 The Quiet Sacrifices Behind the Success16:52 The Career-Changing Role That Defined Her19:31 If She Could Go Back: Advice to Her Younger Self20:40 Running on Empty: Motherhood’s First Impact23:44 Rediscovering Herself After Becoming a Mother26:50 Weathering Public Scrutiny & Staying True29:16 Choosing Silence & Protecting Her Peace33:04 Navigating Friendship Changes & Building Healthy Boundaries35:57 Losing Her Father: A Silent Grief42:24 Her Hardest Role Yet: Motherhood49:14 Post-Maternity Comeback to Acting52:04 Managing ‘Mom Guilt’ After Returning to Work55:58 Redefining Success on Her Own Terms57:56 Rethinking Beauty Standards in Entertainment01:01:21 To My Younger Self: You Don’t Have to Be a Shooting Star01:02:39 The Non-Negotiable Boundaries She Lives By01:03:43 Learning from Past Mistakes01:05:14 Final Reflections & TakeawaysFollow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/Follow Rebecca here: https://www.instagram.com/limrebecca/

In this soulful and wide-ranging conversation, Rodrigo Kede Lima, President of Microsoft Asia, reflects on the people, places, and pivotal lessons that have shaped who he is today. From the quiet strength of his trailblazing mother to the humbling experience of starting over in Asia, and the responsibility of leading 30,000 people across cultures, Rodrigo shares what it truly means to lead with purpose, humility, and heart.We discuss:The values his mother and grandfather instilled in himWhat starting over in Asia taught him about leadershipHow he stays grounded while leading at scaleHis views on hierarchy, culture, and human-first systemsWhat AI will demand of future leadersUnlearning, wellness, and the second mountainWhy legacy is about leaving people better than you found them00:00 Introduction01:08 Meet Rodrigo: Childhood, Curiosity & Dreams of Medicine05:14 The Legacy of His Mother and Grandfather07:13 Core Beliefs That Shaped Rodrigo’s Leadership10:00 Bold Career Moves & Embracing Discomfort12:35 Starting Over in Asia: Humility, Curiosity & Reinvention14:59 Wellness Routines That Keep Rodrigo Grounded20:07 Leading 30,000 People: Culture, Connection & Systems24:07 Asia’s Rise: From Manufacturing Hub to Innovation Powerhouse26:44 The Values We Must Hold Onto in the AI Era29:07 What Fatherhood Taught Rodrigo About Learning & Letting Go32:49 Where to Begin: Practical Steps for Embracing AI36:40 Beyond Boardrooms: Lessons from Parenting39:40 Redefining Purpose: Rodrigo on Legacy, Joy & Giving Back41:15 The Message Rodrigo Hopes to Leave Behind42:27 Closing ReflectionsFollow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/Follow Rodrigo here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodrigo-kede-lima-51941129/

You may know him as “Xiao Ming”, the funny guy behind the shades, the face of SGAG. But in this conversation, I sat with Adrian Ang, the man behind the persona.Adrian and I go way back to our school days. And over the past few years, we’ve reconnected, not over memes or milestones, but over the messy, honest work of untangling who we are from what we’ve built.In this episode, Adrian opens up about the cost of becoming someone the world applauds, and the quiet courage it took to start unbecoming what no longer served him.We talked about:The moment his son asked him to take off the sunglassesHow he nearly lost himself trying to keep it all togetherDrinking to escape, leading while empty, and hurting the people he loved mostAnd what it really means to heal — slowly, gently, from the inside out00:00 Introduction: The Man Behind the Persona01:37 Adrian Today: Diving Beneath the Surface04:54 Kampung Childhood & Free-Spirited Beginnings06:50 Becoming “Xiao Ming”: The Internet Persona Is Born09:20 When the Character Overshadows the Creator11:22 The Cost of Compartmentalising Who We Are16:17 Chasing Impact, Validation & Approval22:37 What Success Really Cost Him25:56 Breaking Point: The Spiral He Couldn’t Ignore30:31 Shutting Down, Pushing Love Away34:53 Reclaiming Himself, One Layer at a Time38:58 The Practice of Healing & Rewiring44:12 The Hardest Work: Sitting With Discomfort48:54 Learning to Find Peace Within51:29 Redefining Success, Impact & Enoughness56:58 To My Younger Self: It’s Okay to Feel01:02:58 If His Eyes Could Speak…01:04:08 Closing Reflections: The Journey Back to SelfFollow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/Follow Adrian here: https://www.instagram.com/adrian.xiaoming/

Best known for The Art of Thinking Clearly, Rolf Dobelli has helped millions of readers sharpen their thinking and sidestep the traps that cloud our judgment. In his latest book The Not-To-Do List, he flips traditional self-help on its head; arguing that the key to a good life isn’t doing more, but doing less of what doesn’t serve us.In this candid conversation, Rolf shares practical ways to reclaim your attention and energy: how to stop overcommitting, why reliability matters more than talent, when to quit (and why it’s not a failure), and what he’s learned from consciously stepping away from the news cycle.This episode is a must-listen for anyone feeling stretched thin, trapped in a productivity loop, or simply ready to cut through the noise.00:00 Introduction 01:04 Rolf Dobelli’s Not-To-Do Habit: Overconfidence 02:44 Rolf’s Study on Cognitive Biases 05:14 The Sunk-Cost Fallacy’s Impact on Our Decisions 07:22 How to Avoid the Manipulation of Reciprocity 10:12 Rolf’s Inspiration Behind ‘The Not-To-Do List’12:44 Why Reliability Outweighs Brilliance 14:46 Knowing When to Quit or Persevere 18:33 Why To-Do-Lists Don’t Work 20:12 The Magic of Setting Low Expectations 23:54 Why Rolf Stopped Reading the News 27:25 Rolf Dobelli’s Mission to Sharpen the Quality of Our Thoughts 29:15 The Billboard Question: Rolf Dobelli’s Message30:22 Episode Closing Follow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/Stay up to date with Rolf Dobelli here: https://www.dobelli.com/en/Purchase 'The Art of Thinking Clearly: Better Thinking, Better Decisions' online here.Purchase 'The Not to Do List: The Surprisingly Simple Art of Success' online here.

Tan Su Shan’s story is more than a career trajectory; it’s a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and redefining what it means to lead. In this special and intimate conversation during Love, Bonito's IWD event, Su Shan, now the CEO of DBS, reflects on her journey from intern to the top of one of Asia’s most influential banks.She opens up about the moments of self-doubt, the lessons learned from “demotions,” and how she learned to command a room without changing who she is. From cultivating clarity and conviction, to breaking through the “sticky floor” that holds many women back, Su Shan shares powerful truths about ambition, presence, and the price of leadership.Whether you're a rising leader, a seasoned professional, or simply navigating what it means to take up space in your own life, this conversation is filled with wisdom, warmth, and actionable insight.00:00 Introduction00:38 From Intern to CEO: Su Shan’s Early Days at DBS02:04 When a “Demotion” Becomes a Turning Point07:16 Facing Self-Doubt and Leading Through Discomfort08:57 Learning to Command the Room with Confidence12:02 Grounding Leadership in Customer-Centricity14:08 How “WRECKOON” Shaped Her Perspective as a Leader15:41 The One Leadership Skill That Will Define the Next Decade17:57 The Best Investments Su Shan Has Made in Life19:28 Q&A: Building Clarity and Communicating with Impact21:07 Q&A: Finding the Right Mentors and Sponsors23:59 Q&A: What It Really Takes to Build Great Teams26:15 Final Reflections: What Leadership Means TodayFollow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/Follow Su Shan here: linkedin.com/in/tan-su-shan-50296732

What’s really going on inside the minds and hearts of today’s teenagers?In this powerful and eye-opening episode, I sit down with Dr Cheryl Loh, one of Singapore’s leading adolescent psychiatrists and a mother to two teens, to explore the inner emotional world of adolescence: a time of searching, shaping, and often silent struggle.We unpack what teens are truly longing for, not just connection, but a deep sense of belonging, identity, and emotional safety. Dr Cheryl shares why so many adolescents turn to the digital world to cope, why shame is such a potent and often misunderstood force during these years, and how adults can begin to show up in ways that don’t just manage behaviour, but meet real emotional needs.What makes this conversation truly special is that it doesn’t stop at insight. Dr Cheryl offers practical, actionable ways for parents, caregivers, and educators to reconnect, rebuild trust, and offer teens the safe, anchored presence they may not know how to ask for.00:00 Introduction01:28 Dr Cheryl Loh on Championing Adolescent Mental Health in Singapore04:24 Why Teen Mental Health Deserves More Attention10:13 Are Our Teens Simply Misunderstood?14:37 Parent Guilt, Anxious Parenting & the Pressure to Get It Right17:33 Teens vs the Internet: Navigating Influence, Shame & Identity22:37 How to Stay Present in Your Teen’s Life — Without Pushing Them Away27:16 Seeing the Good: Shifting from Fixing to Connecting30:03 What Increases the Risk of Mental Health Struggles in Adolescents?34:36 The Role Educators & Schools Play in Teen Emotional Safety37:55 The Social Media Trap: Why Teens Seek Validation Online39:42 Showing Up for Your Teen & Playing the Long Game44:17 Netflix’s Adolescence: When Emotional Needs Go Unmet46:45 Why Healthy Parent-Teen Relationships Matter More Than Ever48:53 Helping Teens Build an Inner Compass in a Noisy World50:52 The Power of Good-Enough Parenting52:57 What Gives Dr Cheryl Hope About This Generation54:40 The Billboard Question: “Say Hello to Your Kid Today”56:07 Episode ClosingFollow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/You can book an appointment with Dr. Cheryl Loh at Garden Grove Clinic. Find out more here: https://gardengroveclinic.sg/about-us/

In this powerful episode, Wes Kao; co-founder of Maven and pioneer of cohort-based learning, joins us to explore what separates good leaders from great ones, and why intentional communication is at the heart of it all.We dive into everything from how to sharpen your judgment and make faster, better decisions, to why concise communication isn't just efficient, it's essential. Wes unpacks her signature concept of “avoiding negative inception” and shows how certain well-meaning phrases can actually sabotage your message and plant doubt.We also talk about how to turn worries into action, why owning your strengths is a quiet superpower, and what it looks like to challenge your own thoughts with intention. Wes shares her biggest leadership challenge to date, and how she learned to balance transparency with confidence, especially when leading through uncertainty.If you're a leader, creator, or communicator of any kind, this conversation is packed with tactical wisdom that will shift how you speak, lead, and show up.Topics we cover:The communication traps even smart leaders fall intoWhat it means to “incept negative ideas” and how to avoid itWhy saying less can help you lead more effectivelyThe underrated power of self-awareness and reframingHow to personalise your communication to truly connectTune in and learn how to lead not just with vision, but with voice.00:00 Introduction00:55 Wes Kao’s Passion for Education 02:08 Good vs Great Leadership: What Sets Them Apart?04:12 How to Sharpen Your Judgement and Make Better Decisions 08:28 The Importance of Concise Communication 10:24 Stop Incepting Negative Ideas: How to Protect Your Message14:41 Turning Your Worries Into Action 18:54 The Beauty of Owning Your Strengths 22:53 Saying ‘No’ to Unproductive Struggles 26:33 The Art of Challenging Your Own Thoughts 29:51 Wes Kao’s Biggest Leadership Challenge and Lessons Learned 31:59 Transparency vs. Confidence: Communication as Leaders 35:05 The Importance of Personalising Your Communication 36:25 Episode Closing Follow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/Follow Wes Kao here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/weskaoSubscribe to her newsletter here: https://newsletter.weskao.com/

After Leo’s episode, I was deeply moved by the messages that poured in, not just about his story, but about the unspoken weight many of you are carrying in your own lives. So many asked: How do you support someone you love when they’re struggling? How do you stay steady for them without losing yourself in the process?In this intimate solo episode, I share my personal experience; what it looked like to walk beside Leo during one of his hardest seasons. Not from a place of having it all figured out, but through the lens of the lessons it taught me.I open up about what helped, what didn’t, and the truths I had to learn the hard way; like not taking his withdrawal personally, listening to understand (not to fix), and continuing to show up with love, even when I felt emptied out.If you’re in that space right now, quietly holding it all together, I hope this conversation reminds you:You are not alone. And you are allowed to be strong and tired at the same time 💛00:00 Introduction: Why This Episode Matters01:38 Q&A: Navigating Turbulent Seasons in Relationships02:15 The Subtle Signs: Spotting Early Symptoms of Depression05:16 Creating a Safe Space for Vulnerability09:25 How to Stay Resilient When There’s No Timeline12:49 What Support Really Looks Like: Small Acts, Big Impact16:29 My Own Breaking Point: Personal Struggles and Lessons19:15 The Hardest Truths I Had to Learn21:45 If I Could Speak to Her: A Heart-to-Heart With My Younger Self26:45 Final Reflections & ClosingFollow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/Listen to Leo's story here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7cfdJMK348KROmJzLJzKgo?si=iT5YgN0xRG6ATPEHFTvHjQ

Leadership is more than just strategy; it’s about self-awareness, emotional mastery, and the ability to lead from a place of integrity and presence. In this special live session, renowned leadership coach Joyce Chen joins a room full of entrepreneurs for a deep, unfiltered conversation on what it truly means to lead with consciousness.This episode features four live coaching sessions, where Joyce guides participants through some of the most pressing leadership dilemmas:🔹 How to hold yourself and your team accountable using the Teach the Class method.🔹 Navigating burnout and knowing when to take a break; is it a whole-body yes or time to realign?🔹 Leading by example; how to teach the Above-Below the Line framework through role modeling.🔹 Overcoming overwhelm and uncertainty; learning to trust your instincts while staying open to growth.Through raw, honest coaching and actionable insights, Joyce helps uncover the deeper patterns that shape how we lead and shows us how to shift into a more empowered, intentional way of showing up - both in business and in life.00:00 Introduction00:54 Understanding the ‘Above-Below the Line Framework’03:42 Shifting from Contraction to Expansion 05:24 ‘Teaching The Class’ Method for Improved Accountability 12:00 ‘Whole Body Yes’ Framework: Navigating Burnout and Indecision 18:04 Role-modelling and Implementing Change as Leaders20:41 The Importance of Joy and Celebrating Wins 24:55 Evaluating Progress from Above the Line / How to Know I’m Doing Things Right26:46 Final Reflections and Key TakeawaysFollow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/Get connected with Joyce: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joyce-chen-coach/

This conversation with Gurmit Singh moved me deeply. It’s not just about a career; it’s about the constant pull between ambition and presence, the delicate balance between success and self-worth, and the courage it takes to step away and realign with what truly matters. Whether you’re in the thick of building your career, questioning your path, or seeking clarity in life’s transitions, this conversation will stay with you long after it ends. I can’t wait for you to hear it.For over two decades, Gurmit Singh was a household name, bringing laughter to millions. But behind the scenes, he was giving everything; his time, his energy, and unknowingly, pieces of himself, to an industry that demanded more than it gave. Then, at the height of his fame, he made a decision few expected—he walked away. In this deeply personal conversation, Gurmit shares the story of why he left, the sacrifices he made along the way, and the hard-earned wisdom that reshaped his understanding of identity, purpose, and what it truly means to live a meaningful life.00:00 Welcome & Introduction01:47 Gurmit Singh: The Man Behind the Laughter07:06 Fighting Inner Battles: Overcoming Inferiority Complex10:45 The Legacy and Burden of Phua Chu Kang13:31 Why Gurmit Walked Away from Fame for Family17:22 The Power of Saying ‘No’: Guarding Time & Priorities19:35 A Child’s Silent Plea: The Cost of a Father’s Absence23:45 Parenting in a Changing World: Lessons & Challenges26:40 Choosing Love Without Conditions: A Father’s Journey30:03 Bridging Generational & Belief Gaps with Your Kids35:27 A Near-Death Experience That Changed Everything40:31 What Gurmit Would Tell His Younger Self Today44:47 Beyond the Persona: Who Is Gurmit Singh, Really?47:48 Final Reflections & Parting WisdomFollow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/Follow Gurmit Singh here: https://www.instagram.com/gurmit.65/

At 77, James Dyson is still inventing, still questioning, and still challenging the way things are done. His story is a testament to the power of persistence, the beauty of thinking differently, and the magic that happens when you refuse to give up.James knows what it means to push through doubt, failure, and rejection. For years, no one believed in his vision of a bagless vacuum. He was rejected over 5,000 times, told that customers wouldn’t want to see the dirt they were cleaning, and advised by experts to follow industry norms. But he didn’t listen. Instead, he bet on his instincts, ignored focus groups, and built one of the most revolutionary companies of our time.In this personal conversation, James Dyson shares the unconventional mindset that led to his greatest breakthroughs - why he believes naivety is an advantage, why failure is something to run toward, and how resilience is the real key to innovation.We talk about:Why he believes naivety is an advantage - and why fresh thinkers change the worldThe art of trusting yourself - especially when everyone else says you’re wrongWhy experts and market research can lead you astray - and when to follow your gut insteadThe Dyson vacuum, the bladeless fan, and the products that almost never happenedWhat it takes to push through self-doubt and uncertaintyThe James Dyson Award and his greatest hope for young innovatorsIf you’ve ever doubted yourself, faced rejection, or wondered if your idea was worth pursuing—this conversation is for you.00:00 Introduction01:58 How Dyson Fuels a Culture of Innovation03:41 The Advantage of Naivety 05:43 James Dyson’s Leadership Approach 08:25 The Art of Trusting Your Instincts 10:26 Pivotal Figures in James Dyson’s Innovation Journey 12:53 Intuition vs. Data: When to Trust Your Gut Over the Numbers14:45 Overcoming Your ‘Pain Barrier’ to Achieve Breakthroughs16:14 How James Dyson Overcame Failure 21:29 The Evolution & Impact of the James Dyson Award25:33 The Billboard Question: James Dyson’s Message 25:59 ClosingFollow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/Stay updated with the James Dyson Award here: https://www.instagram.com/jamesdysonaward/

Some stories carry more weight than others. This is one of them❤️‍🩹When we sat down to reflect on 2024 and share our hopes for 2025, we had no idea just how deeply this conversation would unfold.Leo opened up about his journey of rebuilding; navigating change, rediscovering purpose, and finding the courage to start fresh in his 50s. We knew it would be emotional.. but in that moment, we were reminded of just how much strength and growth this season has brought.Life’s transitions are never easy, but they offer us a chance to redefine what truly matters. Letting go of what once defined us isn’t about loss; it’s about making space for something new.So many of us walk through seasons of reinvention, uncertainty, and self-discovery. If you’ve ever been in that space, we hope this conversation reminds you that you’re not alone.This is one of the most raw and heartfelt reflections we’ve shared - one that has shaped us deeply, and one we hope speaks to you, too.00:26 Introduction: Welcome to 202501:23 Couple Q&A01:43 Rachel and Leo’s 2025 Aspirations04:14 Leo’s Big Announcement08:17 Rachel’s 2025 Mission10:26 The Power of Awe in Marriage13:09 Navigating Depression as a Couple 17:34 Losing a Job After 25 Years: Grief, Identity & Reinvention22:08 Finding Purpose in Closed Doors29:47 Lessons From Our Kids That Changed Us34:58 Leo’s Message to His Younger Self 36:25 Final ReflectionsFollow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/Follow Leo here: https://www.instagram.com/mr_agleooleo/

As we close out 2024, I’m taking a moment to pause, reflect, and share the lessons that have shaped me this year - lessons about growth, grace, and becoming. In this wrap-up episode, I open up about navigating change, embracing challenges, and leaning into the questions that carried me through some of my hardest yet most transformative moments. From asking “What is this here to teach me?” to “How did I co-create this?”, I share the mindset shifts that helped me move through discomfort and uncertainty with more clarity and intention. I also take a look ahead to 2025 and share a powerful practice I’ll be trying - scripting. It’s a tool to help visualise and design the life you want to create, and I’ll guide you through how we can use it to set meaningful, aligned goals across every area of our lives. Whether you’re celebrating wins, navigating storms, or somewhere in between, this episode is an invitation to reflect deeply, dream boldly, and step into the new year with courage and purpose. Thank you for being part of this journey with me. I can’t wait to see what 2025 holds for all of us.❤️ 00:00 Introduction  01:39 Rachel’s 2024 Lessons  03:19 Lesson 1: “What is this here to teach me?”  08:02 Lesson 2: “How did I co-create this?”  10:23 Reflections on Who We Are and CLOSER 15:10 The Art of Scripting for 2025  23:08 Final Reflections Follow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/

In this inspiring episode, Yvon and Leon Bock, co-founders of Hegen, share the extraordinary yet challenging journey behind building their brand and family. They open up about the tough realities of entrepreneurship, the sacrifices made, and how they’ve supported each other through the dark days of self-doubt and struggle.  From Yvon’s breastfeeding journey to Leon’s leap of faith into entrepreneurship, they discuss the power of partnership in both business and life. Yvon also delves into her new book, ExtraOrdinary, offering insights into her entrepreneurial story. This episode is an inspiring conversation about resilience, trust, and the journey of overcoming obstacles together. We discuss:  •⁠  ⁠Navigating the dark days of entrepreneurship •⁠  ⁠Balancing business and family life •⁠  ⁠The power of supporting each other as partners •⁠  ⁠Yvon's breastfeeding experience as a driving force for Hegen •⁠  ⁠Insights from Yvon's new book, ExtraOrdinary 00:00 Introduction 01:05 The Inspiration Behind Hegen 02:44 Leon Bock’s Journey and Transition into Hegen  06:05 Navigating Challenges and Differences as Partners  10:12 Leon’s Leap of Faith  12:38 Yvon’s Breastfeeding Journey with Four Kids  17:23 How To Stay Relevant as a Brand 19:02 The Fruit of Resilience  20:06 Balancing Entrepreneurship and Parenting  24:00 Doing Everything Together as a Couple  26:02 Practical Relationship Advice from The Bocks  29:57 Confronting Fears and Overcoming Struggles as a Couple  34:46 Being Each Other’s Cheerleader and Protector  39:08 Sacrifices Made as Entrepreneurial Parents 42:01 The Unseen Reality of Entrepreneurship  46:06 The Importance of Investing in Yourself 48:46 Our Biggest Lessons Learned from Each Other  52:14 The Billboard Question  53:15 Diving into Yvon’s First Book: Extraordinary  55:31 Episode Closing  Follow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/  Follow Yvon Bock here: https://www.instagram.com/yvonbock/ Follow Leon Bock here: https://www.instagram.com/that.hegen.dad/ Get more details on: https://www.yvonbock.com/ Purchase ‘Extraordinary’ online here: https://singapore.kinokuniya.com/bw/9789819800544

In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with Valentin and Hwee Keng Maeder, the inspiring parents behind Singapore’s young kitefoiling champion, Max Maeder. I was incredibly curious to learn how Max — a world-class athlete with remarkable character, mental strength, discipline, and resilience — was raised to be not only successful but also grounded and confident. From the interviews I’ve watched and read, Max strikes me as an exceptional athlete and a genuinely great person, someone clearly brought up with strong values.His parents generously share their unique journey, revealing how they nurtured his independence, embraced failures as essential to growth, and created a safe space where their children could explore their passions without fear of judgement. With practical lessons on balancing personal expectations, resisting societal pressures, and fostering courage and authenticity, this conversation offers an inspiring glimpse into the values and insights that shaped Max and his siblings, providing guidance for parents everywhere striving to raise grounded, confident children.00:00 Introduction 01:25 Get To Know The Maeders 03:42 Nurturing Independence in Children 08:05 Addressing Fear with Probability 10:19 The Maeders' Unconventional Parenting Views12:59 Creating Safe Spaces at Home 15:46 Parenting Through Different Stages 18:40 Family Rituals That Strengthen Bonds20:14 Max’s Journey: Solo Travels at Age 1122:58 Guiding Children Through Failure26:36 The Myth of Perfect Parenting30:13 Breaking Generational Patterns 35:13 The Maeder’s Approach on Discipline 37:47 Navigating Conflict and Reconciliation 38:43 Prioritising Yourself and Letting Go of Parental Expectations 41:02 Going Against Societal Norms and Pressure 45:09 Final Reflections and Key TakeawaysFollow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/

Yip Pin Xiu, Singapore’s most decorated Paralympian, shares the untold story behind her journey - her unseen battles, silent strength, and unbreakable spirit. From navigating life with muscular dystrophy to becoming a world-record-holding gold medalist, Yip reflects on the personal sacrifices, moments of self-doubt, and the powerful support that fueled her resilience. She opens up about redefining success, challenging misconceptions about para-athletes, and her hopes for the future of Singaporean sports.  This heartfelt conversation offers an intimate look into the life of a true champion who continues to defy limits and inspire a nation. 00:00 Introduction 02:09 Getting to Know Yip Pin Xiu 03:05 Reflecting on Diagnosis and Childhood Resilience 08:14 Discovering Strength and Overcoming Bullying 13:06 The Journey to Olympic Gold 15:38 Silent Battles and Unseen Challenges 21:35 Facing Self-Doubt and Post-Olympic Realities 25:27 Staying True Amidst the Spotlight 28:02 Hopes for the Future of Singaporean Sports 31:03 Challenging Misconceptions of Para-Athletes 32:04 Redefining Success: Pin Xiu’s Perspective 34:25 What Truly Fulfills Pin Xiu 36:34 The True Meaning of Resilience 38:03 The Billboard Question: A Message to the World 38:51 Final Reflections and Key Takeaways Follow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/ Follow Yip Pin Xiu here: https://www.instagram.com/yippinxiu/

In this fast-paced world, we’re constantly pushed to do more, achieve more, and optimise every moment of our lives. But what if true fulfillment comes not from doing it all, but from choosing what truly matters? In this episode, I sit down with Oliver Burkeman, author of Four Thousand Weeks and Meditations for Mortals, to explore how we can live meaningfully in a world obsessed with productivity.Oliver’s work challenges the cultural pressure to be endlessly efficient, encouraging us to embrace our limitations, face our mortality, and focus on what brings true purpose to our lives. We discuss practical ways to let go of the impossible pursuit of “doing it all” and instead prioritise depth, connection, and what truly counts.I first discovered Oliver’s work when Four Thousand Weeks came highly recommended by Adam Grant, and it changed the way I approach my own life. Today, I’m excited to share this conversation with you — a conversation about slowing down, letting go, and living fully amidst the noise. I hope it inspires you as much as it did me.00:00 Introduction01:28 Getting to Know Oliver Burkeman02:16 Rethinking Productivity Through Oliver’s Perspective06:32 Navigating FOMO and Existential Overwhelm09:51 Embracing Limitations and Making Meaningful Choices14:10 Challenging Society’s Obsession with Optimization16:30 Oliver’s Advice on Managing Tasks and Priorities18:52 Exploring Meditations for Mortals21:14 Staying Grounded and Present in a Distracted World23:52 Understanding the Concept of Productivity Debt25:32 The Power of Keeping a 'Done List'26:43 Redefining Success Through Oliver’s Lens28:56 The Billboard Question: What Message Would Oliver Share with the World?31:19 Final Reflections and Key TakeawaysFollow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/Follow Oliver Burkeman here: https://twitter.com/oliverburkemanPurchase ‘Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals’ here: https://singapore.kinokuniya.com/bw/9781784704001Purchase ‘Meditations for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts’ here: https://a.co/d/6Ut5bSt

In this episode, I sit down with Dr Anders Hansen, one of Sweden's top psychiatrists and the bestselling author of Mind-Body Method, to explore the intricate connection between the brain and physical health. We dive into his groundbreaking research, shedding light on the misunderstood nature of anxiety, and the vital role that physical activity plays in boosting mental well-being. Dr Anders debunks common exercise myths, reveals surprising brain discoveries, and shares simple lifestyle changes anyone can make to enhance their brain health. From managing stress to understanding how our storytelling brains shape reality, this conversation offers practical insights into maintaining optimal mental health in today’s fast-paced world. Prepare to walk away with actionable takeaways to improve your overall well-being.00:00 Introduction01:26 Diving into Dr Anders Hansen’s Research 05:05 Common Misconceptions About Anxiety06:46 The Impact of Physical Activity on Mental Health09:41 Debunking Popular Exercise Myths10:48 How to Maintain Optimal Brain Health13:02 Surprising Discoveries of The Brain 15:31 Simple Lifestyle Changes for Mental Well-being16:47 Managing Stress and Our Priorities 19:17 The Brain’s Connection to Human Nature21:55 Our “Storytelling” Brain23:15 The Billboard Question 23:54 Final Reflections and Key Takeaways Follow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/Follow Dr Anders Hansen here: https://www.instagram.com/andersehansen/Purchase ‘The Mind-Body Method: How Moving Your Body Can Stop You Losing Your Mind' here: https://singapore.kinokuniya.com/bw/9781785044366