Before We Get There

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
 

32. Building a Ring Around the Planet with Rohit Jha

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
 

31. Put Down Your Fork and Laugh with Jacky Ng

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

30. More Than a Headline with Naomi Black

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