What does it take to define success in your own terms? In this episode, Joanne speaks with model, actress, and mom Sheila Sim, whose journey through Singapore’s entertainment industry reflects the transformative power of choice and courage.

Recently making her return in acting, Sheila stars in Emerald Hill– The Little Nyonya Story, where she portrays Zhang Yin Niang– a headstrong, independent woman who dares to challenge the rigid norms of her world. Beyond her on-screen career, Sheila shares how she’s navigated life’s turning points as a public figure mother with intention, vulnerability, and strength. What does empowerment look like in our everyday choices? How do we accelerate meaningful actions in our lives?

Tune in as we unpack the courage it takes to rewrite your own narrative and how Sheila Sim continues to lead with authenticity in every role she plays — on and off screen.

Catch "Emerald Hill - The Little Nyonya Story", a 30-episode series, now streaming on meWATCH and Netflix.

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Sheila Sim

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Chapters: 

00:00 Start of Episode

01:46 Introduction of Guest

02:25 Discussing "Emerald Hill"

04:10 Character vs. Real Life: The "Manja" Life

07:57 Women in Modeling

09:53 Why Sheila Transitioned to Acting

11:16 Dealing with Insecurities & Industry Standards

13:37 Realities of Auditioning

18:55 Sheila’s Fear of Acting

19:40 Sheila Falling In Love with Acting Again

21:54 Modern Women vs. Women From History

25:32 Emerald Hill Character Sheila Would Play

28:24 Sheila on Grief and Family

34:24 Sheila on Parenting and Protection

36:51 Sheila’s Empowering Hair Journey

40:20 Breaking Conventional Norms

41:12 How Sheila Met Her Husband

47:39 Hope for Their Children

51:54 Imposter Syndrome

56:18 End of Episode