The Thriving Misfits

In this inspiring episode of The Thriving Misfits, Fyiona Yong speaks with Paul Morris, VP of Learning at Eagle’s Flight and a global facilitator with over 20 years of experience shaping leaders and cultures around the world.

Paul shares his remarkable journey of reinvention in his 40s—from confronting burnout and depression to facing his paralyzing fear of flying and ultimately discovering freedom as his core value. He opens up about the lessons learned through sabbaticals, self-discovery, and the courage to realign his life with purpose and happiness.

In this episode, host Fyiona Yong sits down with Jackie Dela Cruz, Managing Director of SmartAge Solutions and one of the “Most Influential Filipina Women in the World” recognized by FWN.

With a 20-year career at Shell and now shaping the future of smart living through innovation and technology, Jackie brings a wealth of leadership wisdom. She shares why compassionate leadership is more than a “nice-to-have”—it’s a business imperative.

Tune in as Jackie unpacks how leading with heart inspires teams, empowers women, and drives meaningful impact and without losing the human touch.

Today’s guest is Kai Ng, Bar Manager at Hong Kong’s award-winning Quinary. Born in Germany but quick-witted like a true Hong Konger, Kai has hospitality in his blood and a natural gift for blending showmanship, craftsmanship, and storytelling behind the bar.

In this episode, he shares his journey through some of the world’s top bars, his observations on drinking culture across different countries, and how he leads his team in an industry where alcohol is ever-present. Plus, why a classic Martinez remains his go-to after a long day.

In this episode of The Thriving Misfits, Fyiona sits down with Mary Foxworth—an inclusive intimacy educator and founder of the Foxworth Institute.

Mary opens up about her bold journey from corporate life to pioneering conversations around sexual health, intimacy, and relationships. Together, they explore why intimacy education matters, the unspoken challenges couples face (especially around parenthood), and how embracing diversity in relationships can lead to deeper connection.

What happens when you begin to question the emotional safety of your childhood—and start the work of healing? In this powerful episode, Fyiona Yong is joined by Sian Crossley, a UK-qualified psychotherapist, trauma-informed coach, and founder of Break the Cycle Coaching.

Sian supports adults who grew up with emotionally immature, unavailable, or self-absorbed parents—helping them unlearn survival patterns, reconnect with their authentic selves, and start reparenting from a place of compassion and clarity.

Welcome to The Thriving Misfits—a podcast that celebrates those who don’t fit the mold.

In this episode, Fyiona Yong speaks with Chris, Co-Managing Director at NovAzure, about his journey from Shell to sustainable entrepreneurship. Born to German and Chinese-Brazilian parents, Chris shares how navigating identity, culture, and career transitions helped him turn being a ‘misfit’ into a superpower for leadership and innovation.

Host Fyiona Yong sits down with Vicky South: solo traveler, entrepreneur, and community builder who has lived and worked across Vietnam, India, Hong Kong, and now Argentina.

Vicky shares powerful stories about cultivating courage through solo travel, redefining professional identity, and creating community wherever she lands; from immersive wine events to supporting those in need. She reveals what it takes to face fear, find belonging, and grow through curiosity.

Whether you’re dreaming of your own adventure or navigating life’s changes, this episode is filled with insights to inspire your journey.

Listen now and remember: you don’t have to have it all figured out to start.

Part 2:

In this episode, I’m joined by Qi Zhai-McCartney - a Couples Therapist, Coach, and former finance professional whose journey spans eight countries and careers from Wall Street to wellness.

Now based in Singapore, Qi shares her personal IVF story and insights on ambition, identity, and navigating life’s hardest transitions with emotional intelligence and grace.

Connect with Qi on LinkedIn

Part 1:

In this episode, I’m joined by Qi Zhai-McCartney - a Couples Therapist, Coach, and former finance professional whose journey spans eight countries and careers from Wall Street to wellness.

Now based in Singapore, Qi shares her personal IVF story and insights on ambition, identity, and navigating life’s hardest transitions with emotional intelligence and grace.

Connect with Qi on LinkedIn

In this powerful episode, Fyiona Yong is joined by The Brand Coach, Caleb Low—founder of the #RippleEffectMethod. Caleb shares his deeply personal journey of leaving behind his established reputation in Singapore to support his wife’s career in Malaysia, and what it took to rebuild his brand and identity from scratch in a new market.

We dive into topics like ego, reinvention, redefining masculinity, and creating real influence without the spotlight. Caleb offers candid reflections, practical branding wisdom, and inspiring advice on how to make a lasting impact—no matter where you are or what stage you’re in.