Before We Get There

42. Brewing Inspiring Moments with Martin Bém

Host Nicholas Braman interviews Martin Bém, founder of Level 33, the world’s highest microbrewery, about his life path and entrepreneurship in Singapore. Martin moved to Singapore in 1999 as San Pellegrino’s Director Asia, helped grow Western brands as Asian markets opened, then left corporate life after three years to start an agency bringing European brands to Asia, only to be hit immediately by SARS, nearly running out of funds before a partner invested. He later launched his own restaurant concepts despite no operations background, emphasizing quick feedback, humility, and decision-making driven by numbers rather than attachment to ideas. Bém explains Level 33’s concept (fresh beer, serious food, and wine), adapting to trends like cocktails and sustainability, retaining talent through structured HR practices, and navigating COVID without layoffs while reflecting on exits and future health-focused concepts.Martin's links:Level33 Website: https://level33.com.sg/ Level33 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/level33_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 Intro to Martin Bém
04:13 Taking the Leap Abroad
08:34 Building Brands and Ownership
11:26 Learning to Pivot Fast
17:15 Keeping the Concept Evolving
21:21 Coping With Setbacks
31:46 Work Life Balance Reality
36:27 Next Goals and New Concepts
42:48 Social Links and Farewell

41. Breaking Back Out with Wendy Vaz

Host Nicholas Braman interviews entrepreneur and content creator Wendy Vaz two months after she left a six-year corporate career to go all-in on her own business amid major life changes, including a wedding, a move, and a serious back fracture. Wendy describes initial self-doubt, seeking outside validation, and becoming more grounded by trusting her own plan and slowing down to calm her nervous system, drawing on past mental health struggles. She shares her long history of blogging and content creation, overcoming insecurity about her accent after studying in Vancouver on a scholarship, and choosing to stay in Malaysia due to distance from family and depression. Wendy explains adopting a “no plan B” mindset, staying open to pivots while remaining committed to helping people struggling mentally, and aiming to scale impact, earn sustainably, and eventually retire her parents.Wendy's links:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wendyvazzy/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wendyvazzyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/WendyVazPodcast 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/podcast00:00 Meet Wendy Vaz05:38 Why Entrepreneurship13:12 Content Creator Origins17:57 Authenticity Online21:09 Scholarship to Canada25:09 Depression and Coming Home28:55 Quitting Without Plan B33:51 A Year of Big Changes39:00 Purpose Driven Business44:32 Closing and Outro

40. Facing My Mask with Charlene Chew

In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman sits down with Charlene Chew, a creator and athlete widely recognized for her resilience following a traumatic burn accident. Charlene discusses the evolution of her relationship with fitness, moving from a bodybuilding background into calisthenics and shifting her focus toward nervous system regulation rather than pure performance. She shares a candid look at the "mask" required of a public creator and the mental health cost of maintaining a high-energy persona while processing deep, interconnected traumas.
The conversation moves past the headlines of her recovery to explore the reality of her current transition, her decision to step back from the "grind" after a five-year sprint, and her search for a new identity that isn't defined by her past. Charlene also reflects on the burden of being viewed as a savior by her audience and her long-term goal of building something tangible to help others feel seen and safe.
Charlene's links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlenechew/ 
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@charlenechew3005 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@charlenechew250 
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 Charlene Chew
04:21 Training After the Accident: Scars, Comfort, and Nervous System Regulation
06:48 Catching the Inner Critic: Therapy, Suppression, and Self-Repair
12:34 Beyond ‘Burn Survivor’: Social Media Pressure, DMs, and Evolving Identity
18:06 What’s Next? Rest, Slowing Down, and Blending Fitness + Beauty + Regulation
23:07 The ‘Mask’ in Public: Triggers, Burn Scars, and Autopilot Mode
31:11 Slowing Down to Process Trauma: Burnout, Grief, and Interconnected Healing
37:00 Making Peace with ‘What If’: Identity, Appearance, Style, and Self-Acceptance
39:30 Five-Year Vision + Where to Find Charlene (Closing & Subscribe)

39. Building On My Own Terms with Robert Lai

In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman converses with Robert Lai, founder of Kaliber Performance Marketing Agency and leader of the APAC Marketers community. They delve into Robert's journey through various global markets, the startup challenges he faced, and the transformative impact of fatherhood on his professional outlook. Robert emphasizes the importance of building a robust company culture based on clear values and how he pivoted his networking approach to hosting events, thus accelerating relationship-building. They also discuss the significance of balancing commercial success with personal values and the mission to attract top talent and clients that align with their ethos. The episode offers insights on overcoming insecurities, leveraging both positive and negative energy for growth, and making strategic decisions to foster success and well-being in business and life.
Robert's links:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertjlai/ 
Kaliber: https://kaliber.asia/ 
APAC Marketers: https://apacmarketers.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 Robert Lai: Founder of Kaliber
02:57 Challenges and Lessons in Business
06:21 Cultural Differences in Work Environments
10:49 Firing Clients and Building Team Culture
16:54 Overcoming Personal and Professional Challenges
22:52 Networking vs. Hosting
27:40 Volunteering and Community Building
33:06 Fatherhood and Priorities
37:01 Future Goals and Aspirations
40:42 Where to Find Rob and Kaliber

38. The Woman I Dress with Debbie Wong

In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman sits down with Debbie Wong, a TV host and entrepreneur with a background in performing arts and culinary arts. Debbie shares her journey of growing up as an immigrant in Canada, her passion for food, and her venture into the world of YouTube and Food Network Asia. She talks about her transition back to Hong Kong, her experiences in front of the camera, and the lessons learned about self-worth and confidence. Debbie also dives into her new endeavor, Dressing the Woman, a personal style consultancy. Throughout the conversation, she reflects on her personal growth and the importance of stepping into her power.
Debbie's links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ms.debbiewong/ 
Dressing The Woman: https://www.instagram.com/dressingthewoman/ 
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 Welcome and Introduction to Debbie Wong
03:39 Starting a YouTube Channel
05:13 Performing Arts and Acting Career
10:59 Returning to Hong Kong
17:46 Challenges of Hosting a TV Show
22:18 Overcoming Self-Limiting Beliefs
24:30 Starting a Fashion Consultancy
28:54 Balancing Creativity and Business
39:07 Future Goals and Personal Growth
42:52 Closing Remarks and Social Media Links

37. Creating A Singapore Dream with Marion Muller (swizzyinsg)

In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Beman chats with Marion Muller, also known as swizzyinsg, about her unexpected path to becoming a successful content creator in Singapore. Marion details her journey from a struggling job seeker to a full-time content creator, sharing her experiences with identity shifts, dealing with online hate, and building a supportive community. She emphasizes the importance of passion, resilience, and continuous learning in her career. This episode is particularly insightful for those in transitional phases and highlights the behind-the-scenes challenges and rewards of the content creation industry.
Swizzy's links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swizzyinsg/ 
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@swizzyinsg 
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 Marion Introduction and Early Struggles
04:34 Starting the Content Creation Journey
12:43 Dealing with Hate and Negativity
20:12 Balancing Authenticity and Sponsorships
26:21 Mindset and Motivation
34:40 Building Local Connections
39:34 The Drive to Learn and Grow
42:13 The Reality Behind the Scenes
45:00 Final Thoughts and Farewell
 

36. Behind the Red Nose with Shanice Stanislaus

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

35. The Songs My Eyes Hear with Neonomora

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

34. Fishy Business with Cassandra Ong

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

33. Rowing Against Myself with Aisyah Rafaee

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