Before We Get There

29. When Not Writing Is Misery with Parul Sharma

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
 

28. Boring Singapore and Beyond with Bow Kajeeporn Techataveekijkul

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 T11:45 Balancing Content Creation with a Full-Time Job16:15 Living in Different Countries: Thailand, Japan, and Singapore21:52 Job Hunting Struggles and Resilience23:47 Exploring Singapore's Food Scene25:04 Missing Home and Thai Cuisine27:40 Reconnecting with Old Friends32:40 Handling Negativity and Safety Concerns39:03 Future Goals and Reflections41:43 Where to Find Bow's Content
 

27. Singapore F&B: Evolution, Adaptation, and Survival with Anthony Yeoh

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
 

26. Faith & Fame: Living Without Regrets with Nuray Istiqbal (fka Rae Lil Black)

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
 

25. Building Communities and Uncovering Ideas with Vivian Lim

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

24. When Art Stops Asking Questions with Sarah Choo Jing

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
 

23. From Classical Perfection to Authentic Expression with Heema Izzati

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 Life22:18 Nerves and Performing
26:12 The TEDx Experience32:13 Balancing Studies, Performing, and Life
42:08 Future Aspirations and Conclusion
 

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 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