Before We Get There

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

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

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

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

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

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 T

11:45 Balancing Content Creation with a Full-Time Job

16:15 Living in Different Countries: Thailand, Japan, and Singapore

21:52 Job Hunting Struggles and Resilience

23:47 Exploring Singapore's Food Scene

25:04 Missing Home and Thai Cuisine

27:40 Reconnecting with Old Friends

32:40 Handling Negativity and Safety Concerns

39:03 Future Goals and Reflections

41:43 Where to Find Bow's Content

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

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

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

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