
Advertise on podcast: Headstart On Record
Rating
5from
This podcast has
131 episodes
Language
EnglishPublisher
The Straits TimesExplicit
No
Date created
2022/06/14
Latest episode
2026/09/28
Average duration
34 min.
Release period
15 days
Description
Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. Podcasters: Sue-Ann Tan & Tay Hong Yi Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong A podcast by The Straits Times, SPH Media.
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Check latest episodes from Headstart On Record podcast
They decide your pay, promotion and performance: should your boss be on your socials?
2026/09/28
What are the repercussions of adding your boss and colleagues on social media?
In this episode, Kai Wen and Sue-Ann discuss the nuances of adding your colleagues and supervisor on social media.
While there are benefits to sharing your personal life with them on these platforms, should we also be wary that they might use the information against us?
Highlights (click/tap above):
0:00 Introduction and personal experiences with bosses on socials
3:00 Power dynamics of social media
6:08 Online public vs private personas
8:56 Are there any pros to adding your boss on social media?
9:58 What do people use social media for?
15:32 Navigating social media boundaries with bosses and colleagues
Follow See Kai Wen on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/qfwqQ
Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X
Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa
Hosts: See Kai Wen ([email protected]) and Sue-Ann Tan ([email protected])
Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim
Executive producer: Elizabeth Law
Follow the Headstart On Record Podcast here:
Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m
Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3
Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9
YouTube: https://str.sg/3psqrx
Feedback to: [email protected]
Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl
---
Follow more ST podcast channels:
All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7
Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts
---
Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:
The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB
Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX
---
Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties.
---
#headstart
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
High anxiety, spiking cortisol: it's tough making friends as an adult, is it worth the trouble?
2026/09/21
Our friend circles shrink as we get older. How do we deal with it?
In this episode, therapist Cao Zhikai shares how we can deal with losing friends as we enter adulthood, and what we can do to combat that feeling of loss. She also shares about the grief of friendship breakups, which don’t often get given enough attention in a society that prioritises romantic relationships.
Hosts Kai Wen and Sue-Ann discuss why it’s nerve-wrecking making friends as adults, yet having the payoff of a purposeful adult connection is worth it.
Highlights (click/tap above):
0:00 Introduction
0:32 Shrinking adult friend circles?
4:35 Why proximity matters
8:39 The grief of losing friends
16:26 Being intentional in keeping friendships alive
24:39 Do friends serve a purpose?
28:10 The fears of making new friends as adults
33:59 Meeting new people in a non-romantic way
Follow See Kai Wen on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/qfwqQ
Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X
Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa
Hosts: See Kai Wen ([email protected]) and Sue-Ann Tan ([email protected])
Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim
Executive producer: Elizabeth Law
Follow the Headstart On Record Podcast here:
Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m
Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3
Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9
YouTube: https://str.sg/3psqrx
Feedback to: [email protected]
Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl
---
Follow more ST podcast channels:
All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7
Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts
---
Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:
The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB
Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX
---
Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties.
---
#headstart
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Why travelling with friends can lead to meltdowns and broken friendships
2026/09/14
Is travelling with friends worth the risk when all hell breaks loose?
From disagreements over budget to one person wanting to “travelmax” while another wants to wake up at noon, a trip can become a horror story.
In this episode, Kai Wen and Sue-Ann discuss whether you should travel with friends and the red flags that can spell disaster instead of a fun holiday.
Highlights (click/tap above):
0:00: Intro
2:10 Compromising on travel choices
4:50 Walking red flags on holiday
8:11 Relaxing vs travelmaxxing
12:00 Breakups on holiday
14:05 Picking travel companions
15:57 Pre-trip disclosures
Follow See Kai Wen on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/qfwqQ
Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X
Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa
Hosts: See Kai Wen ([email protected]) and Sue-Ann Tan ([email protected])
Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim
Executive producer: Elizabeth Law
Follow the Headstart On Record Podcast here:
Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m
Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3
Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9
Feedback to: [email protected]
Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl
---
Follow more ST podcast channels:
All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7
Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts
Watch Headstart On Record Podcast on YouTube: https://str.sg/3psqrx
---
Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:
The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB
Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX
---
Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties.
---
#headstart
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Singapore stocks have just had their best run in years, are you missing out?
2026/09/07
The US market is exciting, but it can also be dangerous for young investors.
The US market has been on a tear, but it is also littered with pitfalls for unsuspecting new investors.
Should we stock pick or just buy the S&P 500? And what about new IPOs like Space X?
In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at how to explore the US market without getting burnt.
Her guests are Sheryl Choong, Head of Client Advisory Singapore at Endowus and Afdhal Rahman, OCBC executive director of wealth advisory.
Highlights (click/tap above):
3:12 Should I just invest in the S&P 500?
7:13 What percentage of my portfolio should be in the US?
10:30 S&P 500 vs Nasdaq vs Dow Jones
12:00 How to start investing in the US
15:45 Getting into popular new US IPOs
18:30 Lump sum investing vs regular investing
23:20 Dealing with exchange rates
Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa
Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X
Hosts: Sue-Ann Tan ([email protected])
Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim and Natasha Liew
Executive producer: Elizabeth Law
Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:
Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m
Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3
Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9
Feedback to: [email protected]
Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl
---
Follow more ST podcast channels:
All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7
Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts
Watch Headstart On Record Podcast on YouTube: https://str.sg/3psqrx
---
Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:
The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB
Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX
---
Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties.
---
#headstart
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Pay transparency: what to do after finding out a colleague’s salary is higher than yours
2026/08/17
Would you reveal your salary to your colleagues? What to do if you are underpaid?
In this episode, ST’s own manpower correspondent Sharon Salim talks about navigating conversations around salary transparency and how being too transparent can affect workplace dynamics.
Hosts Kai Wen and Sue-Ann discuss transparency being crucial to benchmarking against peers in the same industry, and whether firms discourage employees from salary transparency to maintain an advantage in salary negotiations.
Highlights (click/tap above):
0:00: Intro
3:55 Utilising salary guides & public sector disparity
7:58 The impact on workplace dynamics
11:52 Downsides of transparency
15:34 Job interviews to check “market rate”
19:59 Is sharing your salary against rules
23:29 Negotiating a pay raise
27:42 Track your monthly career milestones
Follow See Kai Wen on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/qfwqQ
Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X
Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa
Hosts: See Kai Wen ([email protected]) and Sue-Ann Tan ([email protected])
Produced & edited by: Eden Soh, Fa’izah Sani and Amirul Karim
Executive producer: Elizabeth Law
Follow the Headstart On Record Podcast here:
Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m
Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3
Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9
Feedback to: [email protected]
Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl
---
Follow more ST podcast channels:
All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7
Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts
Watch Headstart On Record Podcast on YouTube: https://str.sg/3psqrx
---
Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:
The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB
Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX
---
Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties.
---
#headstart
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Invest in stocks and ETFs because your friend says so? Why friends and finances don’t always mix
2026/08/03
Talking to friends about money can be sensitive, here’s how to navigate it.
Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a head start in your personal finance, career and life with The Straits Times.
Friendships may be priceless, but money talk often crops up among friends - who owes who money, choosing dinner locations, trying to budget for travel together.
But how can we talk openly about money without breaking friendships?
In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan and See Kai Wen talk about how to navigate this issue.
Their guest is Vivienne Ong from MoneyOwl.
Highlights (click/tap above):
1:49 How will it affect the friend group if everyone knows each other’s pay?
7:43 People pleasing vs guarding your own finances
10:56 Money talk when travelling with friends
18:00 Can owing money break a friendship
23:29 Taking emotions out of the equation
24:50 Expensive weddings and hongbao
29:26 How to approach the money convo
Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa
Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X
Follow See Kai Wen on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/qfwqQ
Hosts: Sue-Ann Tan ([email protected]) and See Kai Wen ([email protected])
Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim and Natasha Liew
Executive producers: Elizabeth Law
Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:
Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m
Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3
Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9
Feedback to: [email protected]
Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl
---
Follow more ST podcast channels:
All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7
Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts
Watch Headstart On Record Podcast on YouTube: https://str.sg/3psqrx
---
Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:
The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB
Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX
---
Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties.
---
#headstart
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
7 jobs in 14 years: A comms director explains why job hopping isn't always bad
2026/07/20
Job hopping: Career suicide or a way to learn what works for you?
Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a head start in your personal finance, career and life with The Straits Times.
In this episode, Annabel Lim, Business & Reputation Director at communications firm We. Communications shares how she built her career by cycling through 7 full-time jobs.
She talks about how each change gave her a different perspective or skill that cumulated in her current role, and why “job-hopping” isn't necessarily a red flag in CVs.
Hosts Kai Wen and Sue-Ann, who have worked in two jobs and one job respectively, also discussed how long a person should hold their job before making a switch and how to tell when a role no longer works for you.
Highlights (click/tap above):
0:00 Job hopping: Is it a bad thing?
6:56 Is there a minimum time one has to stay at a job?
9:45 Rage quitting
13:28 Is company loyalty worth anything?
20:40 Push factors at work
29:52 The urge to quit: just a phase or deeper problem?
34:31 Advice for those thinking of changing careers
Follow See Kai Wen on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/qfwqQ
Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa
Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X
Hosts: See Kai Wen ([email protected]) and Sue-Ann Tan ([email protected])
Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim and Natasha Liew
Executive producers: Elizabeth Law
Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:
Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m
Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3
Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9
Feedback to: [email protected]
Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl
---
Follow more ST podcast channels:
All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7
Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts
Watch Headstart On Record Podcast on YouTube: https://str.sg/3psqrx
---
Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:
The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB
Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX
---
Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties.
---
#headstart
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Investing amid volatility: is it all about managing emotions and impulses?
2026/07/06
Does buy low, sell high work in today’s volatile market?
Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a head start in your personal finance, career and life with The Straits Times.
Everybody wants to be a Warren Buffett - to buy when the market dips and sell when it soars again.
But is this a good investment strategy for everyone?
In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at whether to go all in when the market dips.
Her guests are Arpit Agal from Syfe and Chua Inn Chong from PhillipCapital.
Highlights (click/tap above):
1:20 Why did the market dip in June?
2:49 To be or not to be Warren Buffett?
4:33 Can you actually time the market?
13:55 ETFs vs stocks
16:00 Are market swings bigger now than before?
18:00 The gurus’ investing strategies
21:25 SpaceX and hype investing
Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa
Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X
Host: Sue-Ann Tan ([email protected])
Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim
Executive producers: Elizabeth Law and Joanna Seow
Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:
Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m
Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3
Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9
Feedback to: [email protected]
Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl
---
Follow more ST podcast channels:
All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7
Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts
Watch Headstart On Record Podcast on YouTube: https://str.sg/3psqrx
---
Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:
The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB
Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX
---
Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties.
---
#headstart
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
‘Comedy equals truth and pain’: a clown on taking life less seriously
2026/06/15
Are Singaporeans too rigid to be funny? How to take ourselves less seriously to overcome stress.
Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a head start in your personal finance, career and life with The Straits Times.
In this episode, theatrical clown and actor Shanice Stanislaus shares with host See Kai Wen about how thinking and acting like a clown can help navigate high-pressure environments.
The “Clown Mentality” includes having the audacity to dream and try, never afraid of failing and finding ways to add whimsy into your life. We all have a little clown in our pockets.
Shanice also speaks about her journey as one of the only few professional clowns in Singapore, her award-winning clown shows, and how she helps Singaporeans find their “funny” in her workshops.
Highlights (click/tap above):
0:00 What is clowning?
02:58 Are Singaporeans too uptight to be funny?
07:11 Why we need to learn how to fail
10:51 Comedy is truth and pain wrapped nicely
15:33 Using humour to break the ice in work situations
21:55 How to find your inner clown and humour
25:47 Adopting a “Clown Mentality”
27:51 Shanice’s experience performing as a clown overseas
Follow See Kai Wen on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/qfwqQ
Host: See Kai Wen ([email protected])
Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim
Executive producers: Elizabeth Law and Joanna Seow
Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:
Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m
Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3
Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9
Feedback to: [email protected]
Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl
---
Follow more ST podcast channels:
All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7
Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts
The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast
---
Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:
The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB
Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX
---
Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties.
---
#headstart
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Will the AI bubble burst? We break down if tech is still worth investing in
2026/06/01
Tech still holds long-term promise but choose companies carefully based on their fundamentals.
Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a head start in your personal finance, career and life with The Straits Times.
Talk of an AI bubble has been brewing for some time, with many asking when it will burst.
But young investors still want to get in on the tech wave and buy into a sector that has great growth potential.
In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at which tech stocks show promise in a mature AI era.
Her guests are DBS Bank head of equity and fixed income Subhra Chatterjee and StashAway head of investment advisory Mark Yeo.
Highlights (click/tap above):
3:00 Tech is still an integral investment theme
6:00 What is the AI bubble
12:00 Should you still buy the MAG7
17:00 How to fit tech into your portfolio
21:00 SGX or Nasdaq or some other market entirely
31:00 What is dollar-cost averaging?
34:00 Different ways to diversify your portfolio
Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa
Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X
Host: Sue-Ann Tan ([email protected])
Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim
Executive producers: Elizabeth Law and Joanna Seow
Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:
Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m
Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3
Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9
Feedback to: [email protected]
Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl
---
Follow more ST podcast channels:
All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7
Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts
The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast
---
Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:
The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB
Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX
---
Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties.
---
#headstart
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Feel like you are not good enough? Here’s what you can do
2026/05/18
Feel like you are not enough? Learn how to become your ideal self by acting as if you already are.
Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a head start in your personal finance, career and life with The Straits Times.
In this episode, Singapore theatre actor and musician Andrew Marko shares with host See Kai Wen about how the “Act As If” theory relates to his self-growth.
“Act As If” is a three-part technique that requires people to act as if they are already the ideal version of themselves, even when they are not there yet. The process includes visualisation and taking small, actionable steps towards a goal.
Besides opening up about his weight loss journey, Andrew also gets real about his experience as an actor and how he learned to “be in the moment” by playing a character on the autism spectrum.
Highlights (click/tap above):
0:00 Introduction to the “Act As If” theory
2:00 Psychology behind being an actor
6:10 Feelings of inadequacy and facing your inner critic
12:35 How to apply the “Act As If” theory to your life
16:11 Defining the most successful version of yourself
19:15 Andrew’s weight loss journey
25:35 Why being present is important
30:30 Embracing uncomfortable growth
Follow See Kai Wen on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/qfwqQ
Host: See Kai Wen ([email protected])
Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim
Executive producers: Elizabeth Law and Joanna Seow
Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:
Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m
Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3
Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9
Feedback to: [email protected]
Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl
---
Follow more ST podcast channels:
All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7
Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts
The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast
---
Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:
The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB
Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX
---
Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties.
---
#headstart
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Singapore's Les Miserables star Nathania Ong on what it cost to chase her dreams
2026/05/03
Surviving on vibes and hard work? What it's like working as a freelance artist overseas.
Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a head start in your personal finance, career and life with The Straits Times.
How does a Singaporean make her way onto London’s glittering West End?
Nathania Ong made her mark by playing well-loved characters like Eponine in Les Miserables and Eliza Hamilton in Hamilton, putting Singapore on the world theatre map.
But how did it happen and what does the life of a freelance artist overseas look like?
In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at the realities and joys of working in the arts.
Her guest is musical theatre actress Nathania Ong.
Highlights (click/tap above):
3:12 Being initially rejected from every drama school
6:39 Nathania’s West End debut
10:54 Deciding to be an actress
18:00 Realities of working in London
22:13 Advice to anyone aspiring to be an actor
26:23 What’s next for Nathania
Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa
Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X
Host: Sue-Ann Tan ([email protected])
Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim
Executive producers: Joanna Seow and Elizabeth Law
Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:
Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m
Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3
Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9
Feedback to: [email protected]
Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl
---
Follow more ST podcast channels:
All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7
Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts
The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast
---
Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:
The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB
Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX
---
Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties.
---
#headstart
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sing Song Social Club founder Aarika Lee on the magic of community
2026/04/19
Get a peek into the workings of the viral community choir and unpack the importance of finding your tribe.
Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a head start in your personal finance, career and life with The Straits Times.
In this episode, Singaporean musician Aarika Lee tells host See Kai Wen her inspiration and journey in starting the viral community choir Sing Song Social Club.
Through the choir’s inclusivity, people from all walks of life and ages - ranging from four to 90 years of age - come to sing together. No auditions are needed to join the sessions, which have grown from 30 to 400 participants in less than two years.
Aarika also talks about why having a community is so important and discusses parallels between the science of trees and the psychological need of humans to feel a sense of belonging.
Highlights (click/tap above):
0:00 What is the Sing Song Social Club (SSSC)?
5:30 Role of communities and how Aarika keeps SSSC safe
8:40 How the science of trees explains our need for community
15:40 Independence vs interdependence
20:50 Disagreements in SSSC?
23:50 How Aarika started SSSC, and the roles of the other founding members
29:50 Advice for those who want to find or start their own community
36:03 Aarika plays “This or That”
Follow See Kai Wen on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/qfwqQ
Host: See Kai Wen ([email protected])
Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim & Natasha Liew
Executive producers: Danson Cheong and Joanna Seow
Editorial producer: Elizabeth Law
Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:
Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m
Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3
Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9
Feedback to: [email protected]
Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl
---
Follow more ST podcast channels:
All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7
Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts
The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast
---
Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:
The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB
Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX
---
Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties.
---
#headstart
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Should I buy silver?
2026/04/05
Is silver a safe haven for investors like gold and will its price rise due to war?
Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a head start in your personal finance, career and life with The Straits Times.
Silver has had some exciting days, especially when the price of silver skyrocketed in 2025. However, there has been a pullback in early 2026.
So how does silver compare to gold and is it worth investing in for the long run?
In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at silver as a long-term investment and if it works for you.
Her guests are CMC Markets expert Daphne Tan and ST business reporter Timothy Goh.
Highlights (click/tap above):
1:36 Is silver a safe haven like gold?
4:00 Will the Iran war drive silver prices up?
7:39 Tim’s experience of buying silver
10:30 Tech trends that could boost silver
12:00 Physical silver vs paper silver
19:24 How does silver compare to stocks as an investment?
Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa
Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X
Host: Sue-Ann Tan ([email protected])
Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim
Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow
Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:
Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m
Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3
Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9
Feedback to: [email protected]
Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl
---
Follow more ST podcast channels:
All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7
Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts
The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast
---
Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:
The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB
Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX
---
Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties.
---
#headstart
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Quah Ting Wen on her infinite mindset and when she’ll stop competing
2026/03/15
Veteran national swimmer Quah Ting Wen discusses finding her own joy in swimming.
Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a head start in your personal finance, career and life with The Straits Times.
In this episode, ST video journalist See Kai Wen hosts national swimmer Quah Ting Wen, who tells him how American figure skating Olympic champion Alysa Liu’s infinite mindset inspires her as an athlete.
The infinite mindset belongs to people who emphasise enjoying the game, rather than having their focus on winning it.
With 65 medals under her swim cap, Ting Wen is the most bemedalled athlete in the SEA Games. She also speaks about the bittersweet feeling of racing with her sister and how she navigates that complicated relationship.
Highlights (click/tap above):
1:50 How Ting Wen started her swim journey
4:19 Reflecting on being SEA Games’ most bemedalled athlete
10:33 Alysa Liu’s success in the Winter Olympics
14:17 What are finite games and infinite games?
19:47 Financial realities of being an athlete in Singapore
27:56 When will Ting Wen stop competing?
32:31 What Ting Wen would have done if she weren’t a swimmer?
36:14 How can everyday people adopt the infinite mindset?
Follow See Kai Wen on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/qfwqQ
Host: See Kai Wen ([email protected])
Produced & edited by: Eden Soh
Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow
Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here:
Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m
Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3
Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9
Feedback to: [email protected]
Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl
---
Follow more ST podcast channels:
All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7
Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts
The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast
---
Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:
The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB
Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX
---
Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties.
---
#headstart
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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