Before We Get There

22. If Women Had Wives with JingJin Liu

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

21. Kitchens, Family, and Modernizing Tradition with Ariff Zin

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/   

20. From Childhood Dreams to the Silver Screen with Joyce Harn

In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Breman 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
 

19. Choosing a New Path and Preserving Singapore's Food Heritage with Yeo Min

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

18. Art, Advocacy, and Authenticity with Opera Tang

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

17. The Journey to Growth Through Adventure with Rob Lilwall

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/nicholasbramanWebsite: 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
 

16. Martial Arts, Mental Health, and Moving Forward with Kenneth Tay

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/nicholasbramanWebsite: 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

15. Legacy, Family, and Entrepreneurship with Sanjay Jegatheeson

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/nicholasbramanWebsite: https://nicholasbraman.com/before-we-get-there-podcast/ 00:00 Meet Sanjay Jegatheeson02:16 Starting the Meadery06:05 Challenges and Successes14:46 Balancing Work and Family24:59 Challenges of Business Operations28:47 Balancing Creativity and Business32:31 Parenting and Career: A Personal Journey34:47 Inspiring the Next Generation41:48 The Therapeutic Side of Jiu Jitsu44:02 Future Goals and Aspirations45:58 Where to Find Lion City Meadery
 

14. From Law School Dropout to Entrepreneurial Success with Cheryl Lau

In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman chats with Cheryl Lau, a successful podcaster, business coach, and entrepreneur. Cheryl shares her story of quitting law school and a PhD program to find a career that fulfilled her. They discuss her podcast rebrand, titled Edit History, where creators critique their past work. Cheryl talks about her experiences with imposter syndrome, balancing family commitments, and the evolution of her content creation journey.Cheryl's links: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cheryltheory/ Podcast Instragram: https://www.instagram.com/edithistorypod/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5wQUAEUHdtyDROGdVUTS4w?si=9771ad2368ea47d3 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@cheryltheory 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/nicholasbramanWebsite: https://nicholasbraman.com/before-we-get-there-podcast/ 
00:00 Introducing Cheryl Lau
02:17 The Birth of 'Edit History' Podcast
04:52 Transitioning to Guest Conversations
11:11 The Journey of Quitting School Twice
28:42 Navigating Imposter Syndrome
36:31 Balancing Family and Traditions
41:25 Looking Ahead: Future Success
43:46 Conclusion and Farewell

13. Bringing Life to Art and Stories with Erica Eng

In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman talks to Malaysian author and artist Erica Eng about her inspiring journey in the world of art and storytelling. Erica shares how her love for art began with book illustrations and developed through influences like Little House on the Prairie and Roald Dahl’s works. She discusses her creative process, the emotional impact of her experiences, and the journey of writing her Eisner Award-winning book Fried Rice. Erica also delves into her struggles and triumphs, from balancing a full-time animation career with personal projects to navigating life's challenges while staying driven by faith and family support. Erica's links: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paprikapeprica/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/paprikapeprica Buy Fried Rice (SG): https://sg.shp.ee/2Ye1fzT 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/nicholasbramanWebsite: https://nicholasbraman.com/before-we-get-there-podcast/ 
00:00 Meet Erica Eng: Malaysian Author and Artist
01:22 Falling in Love with Art
03:24 Creating Fried Rice: Inspiration and Process
07:18 Handling Rejection and Moving Forward
12:09 Publishing Journey and Winning the Eisner Award
19:42 Balancing Career and Personal Projects
24:48 Creative Process and Inspirations
28:53 TEDx Talk and Overcoming Vulnerability
37:00 Future Aspirations and Closing Remarks