Before We Get There
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Before We Get There episodes

  • 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 Life
    22:18 Nerves and Performing
    26:12 The TEDx Experience
    32:13 Balancing Studies, Performing, and Life
    42:08 Future Aspirations and Conclusion
    46 min
  • 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
    42 min
  • 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/   

    41 min
  • 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
    42 min
  • 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
    47 min
  • 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
    48 min
  • 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/nicholasbraman
    Website: 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
    49 min
  • 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/nicholasbraman
    Website: 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
    48 min
  • 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/nicholasbraman
    Website: https://nicholasbraman.com/before-we-get-there-podcast/ 

    00:00 Meet Sanjay Jegatheeson
    02:16 Starting the Meadery
    06:05 Challenges and Successes
    14:46 Balancing Work and Family
    24:59 Challenges of Business Operations
    28:47 Balancing Creativity and Business
    32:31 Parenting and Career: A Personal Journey
    34:47 Inspiring the Next Generation
    41:48 The Therapeutic Side of Jiu Jitsu
    44:02 Future Goals and Aspirations
    45:58 Where to Find Lion City Meadery
    48 min
  • 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/nicholasbraman
    Website: 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
    46 min

About Before We Get There

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Before We Get There is a podcast about resilience, pivots, and the unfinished paths we all walk. Host Nicholas Braman sits down with creatives, athletes, chefs, entrepreneurs, and…