In this episode of Mike Helfman’s Curiosity, we dive into the mind of Vikneswaran “Vikar” Veerasundar — the creative force behind VikarWorld, one of Malaysia’s most iconic YouTube comedy channels. From posting relatable skits on Malaysian culture to landing his breakout acting role in the hit horror film Pulau, Vikar shares an honest and hilarious look at how to build a career from pure creativity and persistence.From YouTube skits that went viral to building his murukku snack brand, and from navigating identity as a Malaysian Indian creator to breaking into the local film industry, this episode is packed with insights and stories every young creator needs to hear.If you’ve ever dreamt of turning laughs, language, and local culture into a creative career — this conversation will hit home.📅 Recording Date: [Insert Date]⸻🔖 HASHTAGS#MikesCuriosity #Vikar #VikarWorld #Pulau #MalaysianYouTuber #ContentCreatorMalaysia #Murukku #MalaysiaFilm #ComedyCreator #IndianMalaysian #Podcast #CreatorEconomy⸻🎧 CHECK OUT THIS PODCAST IN AUDIOSpotify: Mike Helfman’s CuriosityApple Podcast: Mike Helfman’s Curiosity⸻📲 CONNECT WITH VIKARInstagram: @vikarworldX / Twitter: @vikarworldYouTube: VikarWorld⸻📲 CHECK US OUT EVERYWHEREInstagram: /mikehelfmanTwitter: /MikeHelfmanFacebook: /mikehelfmanLinkedIn: /Michael Helfman📩 BUSINESS ENQUIRIES & COLLABORATION✉️ [email protected]🎬 TEAMProduced by – Ruth Wilson Das, Mike Helfman, Fahad FikriHost – Mike Helfman⸻⏱ EPISODE BREAKDOWN0:00 — Introduction: Who is Vikar and how VikarWorld began3:12 — The early YouTube grind & Malaysian comedy scene in the 2010s7:15 — Balancing engineering life with a content dream10:02 — Turning cultural quirks into comedy gold13:40 — Building VikarWorld’s audience through relatability & honesty17:22 — The birth of the murukku brand and Malaysian snack hustle20:55 — Learning marketing through memes and self-promotion25:43 — Crossing from YouTube to acting: how Pulau changed everything32:00 — Behind the scenes of “Pulau” — challenges, controversy, chemistry39:50 — The pressure of representation as a Malaysian Indian creator46:25 — Navigating fame, burnout, and creative blocks53:40 — The new wave of Malaysian creators and local censorship realities59:05 — Where content meets commerce: lessons from a decade online1:05:50 — Final thoughts: staying real, staying funny, and what’s next for Vikar

In this episode of Mike Helfman’s Curiosity, we explore the mind of Ghaz Abu Bakar — one of Malaysia’s most acclaimed film directors and cinematographers, known for Polis Evo, Bulan dan Pria Terhebat, and Tokan. From being camera-shy to becoming a SONY Cine Pro Ambassador, Ghaz shares an unfiltered look at what it takes to bring Malaysian stories to global screens.We discuss creative risks in filmmaking, the evolution of Malaysian cinema, the art of visual storytelling, and how horror can redefine culture. If you’re passionate about film, creativity, and breaking into the industry, this conversation will hit home.📅 Recording Date: TBD⸻🔖 HASHTAGS#GhazAbuBakar #MikesCuriosity #Filmmaking #MalaysianCinema #Cinematography #PolisEvo #FilmDirector #CreativeJourney #PodcastMalaysia #SonyCinePro #VisualStorytelling #HorrorFilms⸻🎧 CHECK OUT THIS PODCAST IN AUDIOSpotify: Mike Helfman’s CuriosityApple Podcast: Mike Helfman’s Curiosity⸻📲 CONNECT WITH GHAZ ABU BAKARInstagram: @ghazabubakarYouTube: Ghaz Abu BakarIMDb: Ghaz Abu Bakar⸻📲 CHECK US OUT EVERYWHEREInstagram: /mikehelfmanTwitter: /MikeHelfmanFacebook: /mikehelfmanLinkedIn: /MichaelHelfman⸻📩 BUSINESS ENQUIRIES & COLLABORATION✉️ [email protected]⸻🎬 TEAMProduced by – Ruth Wilson Das, Mike Helfman, Fahad FikriHost – Mike Helfman⸻⏱ EPISODE BREAKDOWN00:00 – Ghaz opens up about being camera-shy and how his journey into film began.00:02 – From lighting crew to director — how small beginnings shaped big opportunities.00:04 – Discussing literary influences like Edgar Allan Poe and the roots of storytelling.00:06 – How he approaches cinematography, production design, and creative experimentation.00:09 – The power of the cinema experience and how certain films changed his perspective.00:11 – His thoughts on Sony’s Cine Line cameras and the future of filmmaking tech.00:13 – Blood, sweat, and tears — the realities of film production and creative burnout.00:15 – Balancing creativity and audience perception — why taste and timing matter.00:18 – Personal growth, spirituality, and how filmmaking transforms your worldview.00:20 – Music videos and their impact — where his visual language truly evolved.00:23 – From Jurassic Park to Malaysian sets — blending global influences with local soul.00:25 – On working with international talent and unexpected on-set experiences.00:27 – Breaking out of creative boxes — refusing to be typecast in the industry.00:30 – The responsibility of storytellers and the moral weight of filmmaking.00:32 – The differences between directing styles — and what separates good from great.00:34 – The rise of Malaysia’s creative landscape and what makes it thrive today.00:36 – How film helps export culture and shape global perception of Malaysia.00:38 – Malaysia’s film ecosystem is improving — why optimism matters.00:40 – “In Ghaz We Trust” — on budgets, box office realities, and creative faith.00:43 – Discussing action sequences and sound design — the art of immersion.00:45 – Revisiting early creative projects that still inspire him today.00:47 – Pushing visual boundaries beyond what’s been seen locally.00:49 – Teasing future projects and how Polis Evo shaped his directorial DNA.00:52 – On cultural research — authenticity in telling Chinese and Malay stories.00:54 – Why diversity in direction matters and the importance of cross-cultural cinema.

In this episode of Mike Helfman’s Curiosity, we explore the mind of George Bell — a UK‑born long‑term expat who has spent years living in Japan and Malaysia. From navigating rigid social norms and loneliness to finding belonging across cultures, George shares a candid, practical look at what it really takes to build a life abroad.We discuss Japan’s 90s‑era office reality, tourist vs. resident culture shock, hikikomori and the “rent‑a‑family” industry, and how Malaysia is changing as families move up the ladder. If you’re an aspiring expat or just fascinated by life in Asia, this conversation will hit home.📅 Recording Date: Add exact date here#expatlife #Japan #Malaysia #CultureShock #Hikikomori #WorkCulture #LivingAbroad #MikeHelfman #Curiosity #Podcast #JapanCulture #AsiaLife🎧 CHECK OUT THIS PODCAST IN AUDIOSpotify: Mike Helfman’s CuriosityApple Podcast: Mike Helfman’s Curiosity📲 CONNECT WITH GEORGE BELLLinkedIn: Add linkWebsite: Add link📲 CHECK US OUT EVERYWHEREInstagram: /mikehelfmanTwitter: /MikeHelfmanFacebook: /mikehelfmanLinkedIn: /Michael Helfman📩 BUSINESS ENQUIRIES & COLLABORATION✉️ [email protected]🎬 TEAMProduced by – Ruth Wilson Das, Mike Helfman, Fahad FikriHost – Mike Helfman⏱ EPISODE BREAKDOWN0:00 Guest intro & “professional expat”1:31 UK → Japan → Malaysia: George’s journey3:42 Japan’s aging population & stagnation4:50 Why Japan isn’t “the future” anymore (90s tech vibes)7:30 Tourist vs living there — totally different lives9:14 Trains, order & public pride (what Japan gets right)10:34 Education pressure & conformity12:51 Dating norms; the rental‑relationship economy14:12 “Rent‑a‑family” / rent‑a‑dad — why it exists21:10 Malaysia’s hawker culture & generational shifts25:16 Language & integration (what actually helps)27:22 Hikikomori explained33:50 Immigration & visas — reality checks34:32 Practical advice for would‑be expats44:40 Paper/tech quirks, safety & everyday life49:50 Transport & civic pride revisited1:02:17 Language learning tactics that work1:09:49 Building community abroad1:23:14 Closing thoughts

In this episode of Mike Helfman’s Curiosity, we dive into the hard truths with Ciprian Bratu — a researcher, and founder of Bratu Capital, a financial planning consultancy. From helping people future-proof their finances, Ciprian reveals why most people will never build wealth — and exactly how to escape that trap.We discuss the biggest money mistakes expats and professionals make, why savings alone won’t cut it, how AI and global economies are reshaping opportunity, and the mindset you need to actually build real wealth. If you’ve ever felt stuck living paycheck to paycheck, this conversation is your wake-up call.#wealthbuilding #financialfreedom #expatlife #AI #mikehelfman #curiosity #podcast #bratucapital #investing #personaldevelopment #moneytips #financialplanning🎧 CHECK OUT THIS PODCAST IN AUDIOSpotify: Mike Helfman’s CuriosityApple Podcast: Mike Helfman’s Curiosity📲 CONNECT WITH CIPRIAN BRATUResearch: ResearchGateWebsite: ciprianbratu.comInstagram: @bratucapital📲 CHECK US OUT EVERYWHEREInstagram: /mikehelfmanTwitter: /MikeHelfmanFacebook: /mikehelfmanLinkedIn: /Michael Helfman📩 BUSINESS ENQUIRIES & COLLABORATION✉️ [email protected]🎬 TEAMProduced by – Ruth Wilson Das, Mike Helfman, Fahad FikriHost – Mike Helfman⏱ EPISODE BREAKDOWN0:00 Guest Introduction — Ciprian Bratu’s journey5:00 Why most people will never build wealth10:01 AI, modeling tools & the future of construction15:00 The biggest money traps for expats20:01 Savings myths vs. real investing strategies25:00 Creating financial safety nets that actually work30:00 Lessons from engineering applied to finance40:00 Property, ownership & financial resilience45:03 Retirement planning & EPF realities50:01 Corporate careers vs. building independence60:01 How to think long-term and compound lessons70:00 Ciprian’s one big change for Malaysia75:00 Final thoughts — how to truly escape the wealth trap

In this sequel episode of Mike Helfman’s Curiosity, we welcome back Ben Bagg — entrepreneur, storyteller, and returning guest from Episode 12. From early hustles to global ventures, Ben shares how the digital world manipulates us — and what AI means for the future of entrepreneurship.We dive into social media’s hidden influence, the challenges of building in Asia, the AI revolution transforming Nectar, and how global economics is rewriting the rules for creators and founders alike. If you’ve ever wondered who’s pulling the strings behind your feed, this conversation will hit home.#socialmedia #AI #entrepreneurship #BenBaggs #digitalmanipulation #futureofwork #MikeHelfman #CuriosityPodcast #truth #globalbusiness #startups #technology🎧 CHECK OUT THIS PODCAST IN AUDIOSpotify: Mike Helfman’s CuriosityApple Podcast: Mike Helfman’s Curiosity📲 CONNECT WITH BEN BAGGLinkedIn: /Ben Bagg📲 CHECK US OUT EVERYWHEREInstagram: /mikehelfmanTwitter: /MikeHelfmanFacebook: /mikehelfmanLinkedIn: /Michael Helfman📩 BUSINESS ENQUIRIES & COLLABORATION✉️ [email protected]🎬 TEAMProduced by – Ruth Wilson Das, Mike Helfman, Fahad FikriHost – Mike Helfman⸻⏱ EPISODE BREAKDOWN0:00 Introduction: Meet Ben Bagg (Part 2)0:30 The three problems: Loneliness, Polarization, Truth0:50 AI, deepfakes, and a “post-truth” reality1:55 News, “fake news,” and why it spreads5:42 Money, wealth, happiness — what actually matters6:07 Phones, attention, and the cost of constant stimulation14:02 YouTube, algorithms, and incentive structures25:00 Choosing what to consume vs. what to ignore36:40 How to think clearly amid outrage cycles45:10 Building better personal information diets51:29 School/education, discipline, and long-form thinking58:30 Takeaways & closing notes

In this episode of Mike Helfman’s Curiosity, we explore the mind of Dr. Gabriel Peter Salgo — a globally experienced physician and medical communicator with a career spanning Europe and Asia. From training in Germany to practicing in Malaysia, Dr. Salgo offers a rare perspective on the differences in healthcare systems, the myths that persist in medicine, and the future of patient care in a rapidly changing world.We discuss his early experiences in medicine, what it’s like to treat patients across different cultures, the impact of new technologies on healthcare delivery, and why clear communication between doctors and patients can be life-changing. Whether you’re curious about global health, medical innovation, or the human side of healthcare, this conversation will keep you listening.📅 Recording Date: 30/6/25#medicine #healthcare #doctorstories #gabrielpetersalgo #mikehelfman #curiositypodcast #medicaleducation #patientcare #malaysiahealthcare #globalhealth🎧 CHECK OUT THIS PODCAST IN AUDIOSpotify: Mike Helfman’s CuriosityApple Podcast: Mike Helfman’s Curiosity📲 CONNECT WITH DR. SALGOInstagram: @drsalgohealthTwitter/X: @dr_salgoFacebook: Dr Salgo’s Fertility & Family Health Institute📲 CHECK US OUT EVERYWHEREInstagram: /mikehelfmanTwitter: /MikeHelfmanFacebook: /mikehelfmanLinkedIn: /Michael Helfman📩 BUSINESS ENQUIRIES & COLLABORATION✉️ [email protected]🎬 TEAMProduced by – Ruth Wilson Das, Mike Helfman, Fahad FikriHost – Mike Helfman⏱ EPISODE BREAKDOWN0:00 Meet Dr. Gabriel Peter Salgo – A Global Medical Journey6:00 From Germany to Malaysia – Contrasts in Healthcare14:00 Lessons in Patient Care Across Cultures26:00 Breakthroughs & Trends Shaping Medicine40:00 Debunking Myths in Healthcare52:00 Final Advice for a Healthier Future

In this episode of Mike Helfman's Curiosity, we explore the mind of Joseph Chin — a KL-based AI entrepreneur behind Docu and a key community leader at AI Tinkerers KL. From the isolation of startup life to the power of building communities, Joseph shares a deeply personal and practical look at what it takes to innovate in today's AI-driven world.We discuss his early challenges, the origin of AI Tinkerers, the realities of working solo in a hyper-connected industry, and the future of AI tools in creative workflows. If you’re building in tech, curious about artificial intelligence, or just feeling the burnout of working alone, this conversation will hit home.📅 Recording Date: 20/6/2025#ai #startups #techfounder #solopreneur #mikehelfman #curiositypodcast #communitybuilding #aitinkerers #docusoftware #creativitytools #kltech #aimalaysia🎧 CHECK OUT THIS PODCAST IN AUDIOSpotify: Mike Helfman's CuriosityApple Podcast: Mike Helfman's Curiosity📲 CONNECT WITH JOSEPHLinkedIn: Joseph ChinWebsite: https://www.docuask.ai/offer📲 CHECK US OUT EVERYWHEREInstagram: /mikehelfmanTwitter: /MikeHelfmanFacebook: /mikehelfmanLinkedIn: /Michael Helfman📩 BUSINESS ENQUIRIES & COLLABORATION✉️ [email protected]🎬 TEAMProduced by – Ruth Wilson Das, Mike Helfman, Fahad FikriHost – Mike Helfman⏱ EPISODE BREAKDOWN0:00 Meet Joseph – The Man Behind Docu & AI Tinkerers5:30 The Loneliness of Tech Founders12:00 Origin Story of AI Tinkerers KL21:00 Building Tools vs Building Community32:00 The Role of AI in Everyday Creativity45:00 Navigating Burnout & Staying Curious58:00 Advice for New Tech Creator

In this episode of Mike Helfman's Curiosity, we dive into the wild world of Rupert from Rupert’s Reptiles, a passionate adventurer on a mission to document every snake species in Southeast Asia. From childhood fascinations with frogs and insects to getting chased by elephants, bitten by snakes, and surviving treacherous jungle conditions—Rupert shares it all.This conversation blends wild storytelling, authentic passion for wildlife, and insightful perspectives on conservation, fieldwork danger, and embracing a life driven by obsession. If you’re curious about reptiles, jungle expeditions, or what it takes to live on the edge of civilization, this episode is a must-listen.Recording Date: 20/5/2025#reptiles #wildlife #snakes #herping #southeastasia #conservation #exploration #jungle #mikehelfman #curiositypodcast #naturephotography #RupertReptiles🎧 CHECK OUT THIS PODCAST IN AUDIOSpotify: Mike Helfman's CuriosityApple Podcast: Mike Helfman's Curiosity📲 CONNECT WITH RUPERTInstagram: @rupertsreptiles (33K+ followers) Youtube:  @RupertsReptiles  📲 CHECK US OUT EVERYWHEREInstagram: /mikehelfmanTwitter: /MikeHelfmanFacebook: /mikehelfmanLinkedIn: /Michael Helfman📩 BUSINESS ENQUIRIES & COLLABORATIONFor sponsorships, brand collabs & more:✉️ [email protected]🎬 TEAMProduced by – Ruth Wilson Das, Mike Helfman, Fahad FikriHost – Mike Helfman⏱ EPISODE BREAKDOWN0:00 Meet Rupert – The Man Behind Rupert’s Reptiles6:00 Childhood Obsessions with Nature11:00 First Herping Adventures Abroad20:00 Wild Encounters: Bites, Elephants & Danger30:00 Exploring Dangerous Terrains42:00 Why Southeast Asia Is a Reptile Hotspot50:00 Conservation & Future Expeditions1:00:00 Lessons from a Life in the Jungle

In this episode of Mike Helfman's Curiosity, Dr. Ramesh Rajentheran , a leading expert in men's health, shares his journey from physician to healthcare entrepreneur. He discusses crucial aspects of men's well-being, including andropause, sexual health, and the importance of a holistic approach. Plus, discover the innovative technology he's using to improve access to quality care and the unique challenges of building a successful men's health brand.Recording Date: 20/5/2025#menshealth #andropause #testosterone #sexualhealth #healthcare #entrepreneur #asia #AI #doctor #wellness #mikehelfmanCHECK OUT THIS PODCAST IN AUDIOSpotify: Mike Helfman's CuriosityApple Podcast: Mike Helfman's CuriosityCHECK US OUT EVERYWHERE👉🏻SOCIALSInstagram: /mikehelfmanTwitter: /MikeHelfmanFacebook: /mikehelfmanSpotify: Mike Helfman's CuriosityLinkedIn: /Michael HelfmanBUSINESS ENQUIRIES & COLLABORATIONFor sponsorship, brand collaborations, and more:📧 [email protected] by – Ruth Wilson Das, Mike Helfman, Fahad FikriHost – Mike HelfmanHere's what we talked about.0:00 Introduction: Meet Romesh Rajantan 7:00 Romesh's Career Journey: From Medicine to Finance 15:00 The GFC and Career Pivots 22:00 Return to Asia and the Healthcare Sector 29:00 Building a Men's Healthcare Brand: Hisential 38:00 AI in Healthcare: Opportunities and Challenges 45:00 Men's Health: Testosterone, Aging, and Wellness 55:00 Men's Mental Health and Holistic Care 1:00:00 Diet, Exercise, and Longevity 1:05:00 The Importance of Socialization and Physical Activity for Men1:09:00 Conclusion: Essential Clinic & Future Plans

Ever wondered what it takes to build a multi-million dollar business? In this explosive episode of Mike Helfman's Curiosity, we sit down with serial entrepreneur Ben Bagg, whose journey is as wild as it is inspiring. From his incredibly resourceful childhood hustles selling jam donuts and cigarettes to navigating the complexities of building multiple companies in Asia's booming markets, Ben's story is one you won't want to miss.This isn't your typical rags-to-riches tale; Ben shares his raw, honest experiences, including the gut-wrenching moments of doubt and the exhilarating highs of success. He reveals how a focus on customer service, adaptability, and embracing calculated risks have been instrumental in his remarkable ascent. Plus, we delve into how AI is transforming the future of his business, and the unexpected challenges he's overcome along the way.Recording Date: 5/5/2025#entrepreneur #business #asiabusiness #malaysia #AI #artificialintelligence #successstory #serialentrepreneur #motivation #inspiration #draftcut #mikehelfmanCHECK OUT THIS PODCAST IN AUDIOSpotify: Mike Helfman's CuriosityApple Podcast: Mike Helfman's CuriosityCHECK US OUT EVERYWHERE👉🏻SOCIALSInstagram: /mikehelfmanTwitter: /MikeHelfmanFacebook: /mikehelfmanSpotify: Mike Helfman's CuriosityLinkedIn: /Michael HelfmanBUSINESS ENQUIRIES & COLLABORATIONFor sponsorship, brand collaborations, and more:📧 [email protected] by – Ruth Wilson Das, Mike Helfman, Fahad FikriHost – Mike HelfmanHere's what we talked about.0:00 Introduction: Meet Ben Bagg 7:00 The Dellboy Dad and Early Hustles 13:00 From School to First Ventures 20:00 The Shenzhen Incident and Asia Calling 27:00 The Catalyst for Moving to Malaysia 34:00 Overcoming Entrepreneurial Challenges :00 The AI Revolution and Nectar's Transformation 58:00 Global Economics, Tariffs, and the Future 1:21:00 The Future of Entrepreneurship and AI