A culture shock from McDonald’s to Chagee

The Chinese lack of fear of failure

Becoming “the Starbucks of tea”

The secret behind scaling a business quickly

How Chagee localises for different markets

Expanding faster than demand can keep up?

Taking lessons from other successful brands 

Will Chagee be yet another F&B fad?

S'pore's influx of Chinese retail brands

How China is building global brands

After 16 years at McDonald's, Chagee APAC CMO shares how Chinese companies operate differently in the global arena

Synopsis: Conversations and interviews that give you something to think about. Each Wednesday, In Your Opinion speaks to thinkers, leaders, and the people shaping our lives and the issues of the day.

What does it take to turn a Chinese tea chain into a global brand? And what can China's new generation of consumer companies learn from the likes of McDonald's and Starbucks?

Eugene Lee has seen both sides of the divide. After 16 years at McDonald's, where he rose to become international chief marketing officer, he joined Shanghai-headquartered Chagee as its Asia-Pacific chief marketing officer in 2025.

In this conversation with The Straits Times’ senior columnist Tan Dawn Wei, Lee describes the culture shock of moving from an 86-year-old American multinational to a fast-moving young Chinese company, where ideas can become reality within days. He explains how Chagee uses automation, standardisation and lessons borrowed from competitors to expand rapidly, and why building emotional connections with consumers matters as much as selling a good product.

He also addresses Chagee’s falling market valuation, slowing sales and the risk of becoming another passing fad in the food and beverage industry. Beyond tea, the conversation explores China's remarkable transformation from the world's factory into a creator of increasingly ambitious - and desirable - global brands.

Highlights (click/tap above): 

2:40 A culture shock from McDonald’s to Chagee

5:12 The Chinese lack of fear of failure

15:01 Becoming “the Starbucks of tea”

18:26 The secret behind scaling a business quickly

23:14 How Chagee localises for different markets

28:19 Is Chagee expanding faster than consumer demand can keep up?

31:15 Taking lessons from other successful Chinese F&B brands 

34:05 Will Chagee be yet another F&B fad?

39:57 The influx of Chinese retail brands to Singapore and the anxiety it brings 

42:50 How China is building global brands

Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Host: Tan Dawn Wei (dawntan@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Executive producers: Danson Cheong & Lynda Hong

Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb

Spotify: https://str.sg/w7sV

YouTube: https://str.sg/GjMT

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 

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#inyouropinion

After 16 years at McDonald's, Chagee APAC CMO shares how Chinese companies operate differently in the global arena
Synopsis: Conversations and interviews that give you something to think about. Each Wednesday, In Your Opinion speaks to thinkers, leaders, and the people shaping our lives and the issues of the day.
What does it take to turn a Chinese tea chain into a global brand? And what can China's new generation of consumer companies learn from the likes of McDonald's and Starbucks?
Eugene Lee has seen both sides of the divide. After 16 years at McDonald's, where he rose to become international chief marketing officer, he joined Shanghai-headquartered Chagee as its Asia-Pacific chief marketing officer in 2025.
In this conversation with The Straits Times&rsquo; senior columnist Tan Dawn Wei, Lee describes the culture shock of moving from an 86-year-old American multinational to a fast-moving young Chinese company, where ideas can become reality within days. He explains how Chagee uses automation, standardisation and lessons borrowed from competitors to expand rapidly, and why building emotional connections with consumers matters as much as selling a good product.
He also addresses Chagee&rsquo;s falling market valuation, slowing sales and the risk of becoming another passing fad in the food and beverage industry. Beyond tea, the conversation explores China's remarkable transformation from the world's factory into a creator of increasingly ambitious - and desirable - global brands.
Highlights (click/tap above):&nbsp;
2:40 A culture shock from McDonald&rsquo;s to Chagee
5:12 The Chinese lack of fear of failure
15:01 Becoming &ldquo;the Starbucks of tea&rdquo;
18:26 The secret behind scaling a business quickly
23:14 How Chagee localises for different markets
28:19 Is Chagee expanding faster than consumer demand can keep up?
31:15 Taking lessons from other successful Chinese F&amp;B brands&nbsp;
34:05 Will Chagee be yet another F&amp;B fad?
39:57 The influx of Chinese retail brands to Singapore and the anxiety it brings&nbsp;
42:50 How China is building global brands
Read ST&rsquo;s Opinion section:&nbsp;<a href="https://str.sg/w7sH?ref=inline-article">https://str.sg/w7sH</a>
Host: Tan Dawn Wei (dawntan@sph.com.sg)
Produced and edited by: Teo Tong Kai
Executive producers: Danson Cheong &amp; Lynda Hong
Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:
Channel:<a href="https://str.sg/w7Qt">&nbsp;https://str.sg/w7Qt</a>
Apple Podcasts:<a href="https://str.sg/wukb">&nbsp;https://str.sg/wukb</a>
Spotify:<a href="https://str.sg/w7sV">&nbsp;https://str.sg/w7sV</a>
YouTube: <a href="https://str.sg/GjMT">https://str.sg/GjMT</a>
Feedback to: <a href="mailto:podcast@sph.com.sg">podcast@sph.com.sg</a>
---
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Get more updates:&nbsp;<a href="http://str.sg/stpodcasts">http://str.sg/stpodcasts</a>&nbsp;
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---
#inyouropinion

He spent 16 years at McDonald’s, now he’s growing a Chinese tea brand | Chagee APAC CMO Eugene Lee

The key to understanding scam victims

How different is the Nanning Ponzi scheme 

How pig-butchering scams work

How scammers target the human desire

Shame and cognitive dissonance silence victims

Building scam resistance with survivor stories

Sunk costs and social ties: Why victims stay

How trust overrides due diligence

Why financial literacy increases scam risk

The social cost of fraud and eroded trust

A behavioural scientist unpacks the dark psychology of why smart people fall for the Nanning pyramid scheme

Synopsis: Conversations and interviews that give you something to think about. Each Wednesday, In Your Opinion speaks to thinkers, leaders, and the people shaping our lives and the issues of the day.

We often hear this saying: “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.” Yet, 52 Singaporeans were recently arrested in China over the notorious Nanning pyramid scheme. So why do highly educated, financially literate people continue to fall for frauds that seem so obvious from the outside?

In this episode of In Your Opinion, Lynda Hong sits down with Dr Serene Koh, director of the Behavioural Insights Team (BIT) in Singapore, to deconstruct the dark psychology behind massive investment scams. 

Moving past the surface-level blame of describing victims as greedy and gullible, Dr Koh explains how sophisticated syndicates architect fake realities, weaponise our closest family networks, and use our own intelligence against us. 

Highlights (click/tap above): 

00:52 Why behavioural science is the key to understanding scam victims 

1:55 How the Nanning Ponzi scheme differs from other scams 

4:15 How pig-butchering scams work  

7:57 Why scammers target the human desire for family security rather than pure greed 

13:11 Why shame and cognitive dissonance keep victims silent

15:42 Using inoculation programmes and survivor stories to build public resistance against scam syndicates 

18:31 The sunk cost fallacy and social ties that prevent victims from walking away 

22:12 How trust and personal relationships override logical due diligence 

25:42 Why higher financial literacy and education can increase scam vulnerability

31:29 The social cost of fraud, eroded trust, and why people have stopped picking up phone calls anymore

Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Host: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg) 

Produced and edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Executive producers: Danson Cheong & Lynda Hong

Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb

Spotify: https://str.sg/w7sV

YouTube: https://str.sg/GjMT

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

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All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 

Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts 

---

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The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

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#inyouropinion

A behavioural scientist unpacks the dark psychology of why smart people fall for the Nanning pyramid scheme
Synopsis: Conversations and interviews that give you something to think about. Each Wednesday, In Your Opinion speaks to thinkers, leaders, and the people shaping our lives and the issues of the day.
We often hear this saying: &ldquo;If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.&rdquo; Yet, 52 Singaporeans were recently arrested in China over the notorious Nanning pyramid scheme. So why do highly educated, financially literate people continue to fall for frauds that seem so obvious from the outside?
In this episode of In Your Opinion, Lynda Hong sits down with Dr Serene Koh, director of the Behavioural Insights Team (BIT) in Singapore, to deconstruct the dark psychology behind massive investment scams.&nbsp;
Moving past the surface-level blame of describing victims as greedy and gullible, Dr Koh explains how sophisticated syndicates architect fake realities, weaponise our closest family networks, and use our own intelligence against us.&nbsp;
Highlights (click/tap above):&nbsp;
00:52&nbsp;Why behavioural science is the key to understanding scam victims&nbsp;
1:55&nbsp;How the Nanning Ponzi scheme differs from other scams&nbsp;
4:15&nbsp;How pig-butchering scams work&nbsp;&nbsp;
7:57 Why scammers target the human desire for family security rather than pure greed&nbsp;
13:11&nbsp;Why shame and cognitive dissonance keep victims silent
15:42&nbsp;Using inoculation programmes and survivor stories to build public resistance against scam syndicates&nbsp;
18:31&nbsp;The sunk cost fallacy and social ties that prevent victims from walking away&nbsp;
22:12&nbsp;How trust and personal relationships override logical due diligence&nbsp;
25:42&nbsp;Why higher financial literacy and education can increase scam vulnerability
31:29&nbsp;The social cost of fraud, eroded trust, and why people have stopped picking up phone calls anymore
Read ST&rsquo;s Opinion section:<a href="https://str.sg/w7sH"> https://str.sg/w7sH</a>
Host: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg)&nbsp;
Produced and edited by: Teo Tong Kai
Executive producers: Danson Cheong &amp; Lynda Hong
Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:
Channel:<a href="https://str.sg/w7Qt">&nbsp;https://str.sg/w7Qt</a>
Apple Podcasts:<a href="https://str.sg/wukb">&nbsp;https://str.sg/wukb</a>
Spotify:<a href="https://str.sg/w7sV">&nbsp;https://str.sg/w7sV</a>
YouTube: <a href="https://str.sg/GjMT">https://str.sg/GjMT</a>
Feedback to: <a href="mailto:podcast@sph.com.sg">podcast@sph.com.sg</a>
---
Follow more ST podcast channels:
All-in-one ST Podcasts channel:&nbsp;<a href="https://str.sg/wvz7">https://str.sg/wvz7</a>&nbsp;
Get more updates:&nbsp;<a href="http://str.sg/stpodcasts">http://str.sg/stpodcasts</a>&nbsp;
---
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---
#inyouropinion

It’s not about greed: Behavioural scientist Serene Koh explains the psychology of falling for scams

Why did MOF focus on wealth inequality

Income vs wealth

Same family income but varying wealth?

How wealth secures children’s futures

Impact of AI on widening income inequality

Salary growth doesn't equal social mobility

Generating wealth apart from property and CPF

Hidden investment risks for low-income earners

Does upward mobility bring more comfort?

The threat to Singapore's social cohesion

IPS' Mathew Mathews unpacks why a high salary can't protect you like a wealth buffer can.

Synopsis: Conversations and interviews that give you something to think about. Each Wednesday, In Your Opinion speaks to thinkers, leaders, and the people shaping our lives and the issues of the day.

The average wealth held by the top 20% of households stands at $5.3 million. That is 18 times more than the bottom 20%, whose average wealth sits at $293,000, according to an occasional paper titled Income Growth, Inequality, and Social Mobility Trends in Singapore published by the Ministry of Finance (MOF) in February 2026.

While government policies and wage initiatives have successfully lowered income inequality, MOF's 2026 occasional paper reveals that Singapore’s wealth Gini coefficient now stands at 0.55.

In this episode of In Your Opinion, host Lynda Hong sits down with Mathew Mathews, principal research fellow at the Institute of Policy Studies, National University of Singapore (NUS), to unpack the critical difference between earning and owning.

They explore why real income growth alone cannot bridge the mobility gap if lower-income families lack the disposable cash needed to invest in property or compounding assets. Mathews explains how accumulated wealth acts as a vital psychological and practical buffer against economic shocks, particularly for lower-income households.

The conversation dives into the future of the Singaporean social fabric, tackling the threat of AI-driven job disruptions, the dangers of retail investing without financial literacy, and the potential for a universal basic capital model. Finally, they discuss whether slowing relative mobility means the traditional status symbols — like car ownership — are irrelevant, or simply being revisioned by a new generation.

Highlights (click/tap above): 

00:48 Why did MOF focus on wealth inequality recently 

2:16 Income vs wealth: When what you own matters more 

3:52 Can two families with the same income but varying wealth withstand economic shocks? 

5:05 How wealth protects children’s opportunities for the future

5:35 Impact of AI on widening income inequality 

8:49 Why salary growth doesn't equal social mobility 

12:00 How to generate wealth apart from property and CPF 

15:12 The hidden risks of retail investing for the lower-income 

25:05 Does moving up the economic ladder mean more comforts in life?

29:20 The threat to Singapore's social cohesion

Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Host: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg) 

Produced and edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Executive producers: Danson Cheong & Lynda Hong

Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb

Spotify: https://str.sg/w7sV

YouTube: https://str.sg/GjMT

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

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All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 

Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts 

---

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The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

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#inyouropinion

IPS' Mathew Mathews unpacks why a high salary can't protect you like a wealth buffer can.
Synopsis: Conversations and interviews that give you something to think about. Each Wednesday, In Your Opinion speaks to thinkers, leaders, and the people shaping our lives and the issues of the day.
The average wealth held by the top 20% of households stands at $5.3 million. That is 18 times more than the bottom 20%, whose average wealth sits at $293,000, according to an occasional paper titled Income Growth, Inequality, and Social Mobility Trends in Singapore published by the Ministry of Finance (MOF) in February 2026.
While government policies and wage initiatives have successfully lowered income inequality, MOF's 2026 occasional paper reveals that Singapore&rsquo;s wealth Gini coefficient now stands at 0.55.
In this episode of In Your Opinion, host Lynda Hong sits down with Mathew Mathews, principal research fellow at the Institute of Policy Studies, National University of Singapore (NUS), to unpack the critical difference between earning and owning.
They explore why real income growth alone cannot bridge the mobility gap if lower-income families lack the disposable cash needed to invest in property or compounding assets. Mathews explains how accumulated wealth acts as a vital psychological and practical buffer against economic shocks, particularly for lower-income households.
The conversation dives into the future of the Singaporean social fabric, tackling the threat of AI-driven job disruptions, the dangers of retail investing without financial literacy, and the potential for a universal basic capital model. Finally, they discuss whether slowing relative mobility means the traditional status symbols &mdash; like car ownership &mdash; are irrelevant, or simply being revisioned by a new generation.
Highlights (click/tap above):&nbsp;
00:48 Why did MOF focus on wealth inequality recently&nbsp;
2:16 Income vs wealth: When what you own matters more&nbsp;
3:52 Can two families with the same income but varying wealth withstand economic shocks?&nbsp;
5:05 How wealth protects children&rsquo;s opportunities for the future
5:35 Impact of AI on widening income inequality&nbsp;
8:49 Why salary growth doesn't equal social mobility&nbsp;
12:00 How to generate wealth apart from property and CPF&nbsp;
15:12 The hidden risks of retail investing for the lower-income&nbsp;
25:05 Does moving up the economic ladder mean more comforts in life?
29:20 The threat to Singapore's social cohesion
Read ST&rsquo;s Opinion section:<a href="https://str.sg/w7sH"> https://str.sg/w7sH</a>
Host: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg)&nbsp;
Produced and edited by: Teo Tong Kai
Executive producers: Danson Cheong &amp; Lynda Hong
Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:
Channel:<a href="https://str.sg/w7Qt">&nbsp;https://str.sg/w7Qt</a>
Apple Podcasts:<a href="https://str.sg/wukb">&nbsp;https://str.sg/wukb</a>
Spotify:<a href="https://str.sg/w7sV">&nbsp;https://str.sg/w7sV</a>
YouTube: <a href="https://str.sg/GjMT">https://str.sg/GjMT</a>
Feedback to: <a href="mailto:podcast@sph.com.sg">podcast@sph.com.sg</a>
---
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All-in-one ST Podcasts channel:&nbsp;<a href="https://str.sg/wvz7">https://str.sg/wvz7</a>&nbsp;
Get more updates:&nbsp;<a href="http://str.sg/stpodcasts">http://str.sg/stpodcasts</a>&nbsp;
---
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---
#inyouropinion

Households without wealth can get ‘completely disabled’ by disruption, job loss: IPS’ Mathew Mathews

ADHD: Regulation instead of a deficit

Getting diagnosed later on in life

Difference in symptoms between boys and girls

Transitions can be challenging

he problem with the “high-functioning” label

When scepticism affects support given

Common coping mechanisms

When not to disclose an ADHD diagnosis at work

Ways to support someone with ADHD 

Self-acceptance: Seeking an assessment 

Classic ADHD stereotypes, like physical hyperactivity, can cause many to be overlooked and turn to maladaptive coping.

Synopsis: Conversations and interviews that give you something to think about. Each Wednesday, In Your Opinion speaks to thinkers, leaders, and the people shaping our lives and the issues of the day.

Despite the boom in online conversation about attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in recent years, the neurodevelopmental condition is still largely misunderstood due to its name. Experts say those with ADHD don’t lack attention, as much as they lack the ability to regulate it. 

With October being ADHD awareness month, features correspondent Grace Yeoh speaks with Dr Ong Mian Li, a clinical psychologist and the founder of private practice Lightfull Psychology, in this episode of In Your Opinion. Both were diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood. 

Together, they explore the invisible challenges of ADHD, particularly when one is seen to be “high-functioning” — the ability to manage the condition on their own while delivering results like neurotypicals. They argue that when society still expects classic behavioural signs, such as physical hyperactivity, many who need support may go underdiagnosed, developing potentially maladaptive coping mechanisms. 

The conversation also highlights practical ways to seek and offer support, ultimately reframing diagnosis as a step toward better understanding of neurodivergence.

Highlights (click/tap above): 

0:46 Reframing ADHD as an attention regulation issue instead of a deficit

3:41 Reflecting on childhood signs after a diagnosis later on in life

7:03 Difference in symptoms between boys and girls 

11:11 Transitions can be challenging for those with ADHD  

17:24 The problem with the “high-functioning” label 

23:53 When scepticism affects support given

28:14 Common coping mechanisms among those who may be overlooked

40:02 When an ADHD diagnosis shouldn’t be disclosed at the workplace

45:13 Practical ways to support someone with ADHD 

49:30 Seeking an assessment as the start of self-acceptance

Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Host: Grace Yeoh (graceyeoh@sph.com.sg) 

Produced and edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Executive producers: Danson Cheong & Lynda Hong

Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb

Spotify: https://str.sg/w7sV

YouTube: https://str.sg/GjMT

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

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All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 

Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts 

---

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The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

---

#inyouropinion

Classic ADHD stereotypes, like physical hyperactivity, can cause many to be overlooked and turn to maladaptive coping.
Synopsis: Conversations and interviews that give you something to think about. Each Wednesday, In Your Opinion speaks to thinkers, leaders, and the people shaping our lives and the issues of the day.
Despite the boom in online conversation about attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in recent years, the neurodevelopmental condition is still largely misunderstood due to its name. Experts say those with ADHD don&rsquo;t lack attention, as much as they lack the ability to regulate it.&nbsp;
With October being ADHD awareness month, features correspondent Grace Yeoh speaks with Dr Ong Mian Li, a clinical psychologist and the founder of private practice Lightfull Psychology, in this episode of In Your Opinion. Both were diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood.&nbsp;
Together, they explore the invisible challenges of ADHD, particularly when one is seen to be &ldquo;high-functioning&rdquo; &mdash; the ability to manage the condition on their own while delivering results like neurotypicals. They argue that when society still expects classic behavioural signs, such as physical hyperactivity, many who need support may go underdiagnosed, developing potentially maladaptive coping mechanisms.&nbsp;
The conversation also highlights practical ways to seek and offer support, ultimately reframing diagnosis as a step toward better understanding of neurodivergence.
Highlights (click/tap above):&nbsp;
0:46 Reframing ADHD as an attention regulation issue instead of a deficit
3:41 Reflecting on childhood signs after a diagnosis later on in life
7:03 Difference in symptoms between boys and girls&nbsp;
11:11 Transitions can be challenging for those with ADHD&nbsp;&nbsp;
17:24 The problem with the &ldquo;high-functioning&rdquo; label&nbsp;
23:53 When scepticism affects support given
28:14 Common coping mechanisms among those who may be overlooked
40:02 When an ADHD diagnosis shouldn&rsquo;t be disclosed at the workplace
45:13 Practical ways to support someone with ADHD&nbsp;
49:30 Seeking an assessment as the start of self-acceptance
Read ST&rsquo;s Opinion section: <a href="https://str.sg/w7sH?ref=inline-article">https://str.sg/w7sH</a>
Host: Grace Yeoh (<a href="mailto:graceyeoh@sph.com.sg">graceyeoh@sph.com.sg</a>)&nbsp;
Produced and edited by: Teo Tong Kai
Executive producers: Danson Cheong &amp; Lynda Hong
Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:
Channel:<a href="https://str.sg/w7Qt">&nbsp;https://str.sg/w7Qt</a>
Apple Podcasts:<a href="https://str.sg/wukb">&nbsp;https://str.sg/wukb</a>
Spotify:<a href="https://str.sg/w7sV">&nbsp;https://str.sg/w7sV</a>
YouTube: <a href="https://str.sg/GjMT">https://str.sg/GjMT</a>
Feedback to: <a href="mailto:podcast@sph.com.sg">podcast@sph.com.sg</a>
---
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Get more updates:&nbsp;<a href="http://str.sg/stpodcasts">http://str.sg/stpodcasts</a>&nbsp;
---
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---
#inyouropinion

ADHD is not an attention deficit problem: clinical psychologist Ong Mian Li

SG's way  in handling social problems

SingLit vs. global titles

Writing school essays about winter and autumn

Is Singlish still considered "bad English"?

What do we miss if we only read social media?

Is there still room to read for enjoyment?

Paying to read, forcing kids to eat vegetables

Is being a writer in SG an economic dead end? 

Gwee writes for readers 50 years ahead

Is self-censorship a worry for local writers?

Why do Singaporean kids write about winter? Gwee Li Sui on AI, Singlish & why culture cannot be rushed. 

Synopsis: Conversations and interviews that give you something to think about. Each Wednesday, In Your Opinion speaks to thinkers, leaders, and the people shaping our lives and the issues of the day.

A year after the launch of our Culture Pass credits, take-up rates sit at just 10 per cent. Meanwhile, Singapore’s new national reading movement, ReadSG, now aims to pay people to try building a consistent reading habit.

What does this say about us as a people? Is it such a bad thing if we stop reading long-form fiction and just read social media? And why bother with SingLit when we are already so familiar with Singapore’s culture?

In this episode, assistant opinion editor Lianne Chia speaks to poet, graphic artist, and literary critic Gwee Li Sui on why focusing too much on hitting KPIs in our quest for culture often backfires. They discuss how doomscrolling and short-form text change our capacity for empathy and nuance, and uncover the brutal economic reality of being a creative writer in Singapore.

Highlights (click/tap above):

0:50 Singapore's pragmatic way in handling social problems

8:00 Why is SingLit a hard sell for readers compared to global titles?

8:57 Why do Singaporean students still write school essays about winter and autumn?

22:12 Is Singlish still considered "bad English" today? 

27:06 What do we miss if we only read social media?

34:43 With AI summarising everything, is there still room to read for enjoyment?

38:02 Why paying people to read is like forcing kids to eat vegetables

44:50 Is being a creative writer in Singapore an economic dead end? 

51:50 Why Gwee prefers to write for readers 50 years in the future

53:47 Is self-censorship among local writers a worry?

Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Host: Lianne Chia (liannechia@sph.com.sg) 

Produced and edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Executive producers: Danson Cheong & Lynda Hong

Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb

Spotify: https://str.sg/w7sV

YouTube: https://str.sg/GjMT

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

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All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 

Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts 

---

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The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

---

#inyouropinion

Why do Singaporean kids write about winter? Gwee Li Sui on AI, Singlish &amp; why culture cannot be rushed.&nbsp;
Synopsis: Conversations and interviews that give you something to think about. Each Wednesday, In Your Opinion speaks to thinkers, leaders, and the people shaping our lives and the issues of the day.
A year after the launch of our Culture Pass credits, take-up rates sit at just 10 per cent. Meanwhile, Singapore&rsquo;s new national reading movement, ReadSG, now aims to pay people to try building a consistent reading habit.
What does this say about us as a people? Is it such a bad thing if we stop reading long-form fiction and just read social media? And why bother with SingLit when we are already so familiar with Singapore&rsquo;s culture?
In this episode, assistant opinion editor Lianne Chia speaks to poet, graphic artist, and literary critic Gwee Li Sui on why focusing too much on hitting KPIs in our quest for culture often backfires. They discuss how doomscrolling and short-form text change our capacity for empathy and nuance, and uncover the brutal economic reality of being a creative writer in Singapore.
Highlights (click/tap above):
0:50 Singapore's pragmatic way in handling social problems
8:00 Why is SingLit a hard sell for readers compared to global titles?
8:57 Why do Singaporean students still write school essays about winter and autumn?
22:12 Is Singlish still considered "bad English" today?&nbsp;
27:06 What do we miss if we only read social media?
34:43 With AI summarising everything, is there still room to read for enjoyment?
38:02 Why paying people to read is like forcing kids to eat vegetables
44:50 Is being a creative writer in Singapore an economic dead end?&nbsp;
51:50 Why Gwee prefers to write for readers 50 years in the future
53:47 Is self-censorship among local writers a worry?
Read ST&rsquo;s Opinion section: <a href="https://str.sg/w7sH?ref=inline-article">https://str.sg/w7sH</a>
Host: Lianne Chia (<a href="mailto:liannechia@sph.com.sg">liannechia@sph.com.sg</a>)&nbsp;
Produced and edited by: Teo Tong Kai
Executive producers: Danson Cheong &amp; Lynda Hong
Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:
Channel:<a href="https://str.sg/w7Qt">&nbsp;https://str.sg/w7Qt</a>
Apple Podcasts:<a href="https://str.sg/wukb">&nbsp;https://str.sg/wukb</a>
Spotify:<a href="https://str.sg/w7sV">&nbsp;https://str.sg/w7sV</a>
YouTube: <a href="https://str.sg/GjMT">https://str.sg/GjMT</a>
Feedback to: <a href="mailto:podcast@sph.com.sg">podcast@sph.com.sg</a>
---
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All-in-one ST Podcasts channel:&nbsp;<a href="https://str.sg/wvz7">https://str.sg/wvz7</a>&nbsp;
Get more updates:&nbsp;<a href="http://str.sg/stpodcasts">http://str.sg/stpodcasts</a>&nbsp;
---
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---
#inyouropinion

Singapore writer Gwee Li Sui talks Culture Pass credits and what it’ll take to get people to read

Singapore's private capital ecosystem?

Working with Sim Wong Hoo

Investing in Love Bonito

The "No U-Turn Syndrome"

Silicon Valley's risk appetite

Uncertainty is the key to innovation

Backing "crazy" founders 

A more vibrant SGX

Should we focus only on creating unicorns?

Building a Singaporean Silicon Valley

It takes a bold mindset to imagine innovations like Creative’s sound card and the iPhone, says a venture capitalist.

Synopsis: Conversations and interviews that give you something to think about. Each Wednesday, In Your Opinion speaks to thinkers, leaders, and the people shaping our lives and the issues of the day.

Following a recent parliamentary debate on growing Fortune Global 500 companies in Singapore, we ask if Singapore can ever grow a homegrown startup into a global tech giant like Apple or Nvidia? Or do our cultural attitudes toward risk and failure limit this potential?

To explore whether Singapore has the ecosystem and vision to build game-changing products that are similar to Creative Technology's sound card or the Apple iPhone, Lynda Hong sits down with Hian Goh, founding partner of Openspace Capital.

Managing a billion-dollar portfolio, and having served as the investment banker to Creative Technology's founder Sim Wong Hoo, Hian discusses the realities of the venture capital world.

In this episode, they examine the role of the Singapore Stock Exchange (SGX) in unlocking private capital, and the challenges of commercialising deep-tech R&D. 

The discussion also touches on what it takes for Singapore to cultivate its own Silicon Valley, the necessity of tolerating setbacks, and the value of backing founders with an unreasonable mindset.

Highlights (click/tap above): 

1:08 What is actually missing in Singapore's private capital ecosystem? 

6:06 Working with Sim Wong Hoo and hitting the structural ceiling 

12:40 Love, Bonito and the challenges of scaling a brand out of Singapore 

17:43 The "No U-Turn Syndrome" and why younger Singaporeans are breaking the mold 

19:16 Silicon Valley's risk appetite vs. Singapore's fear of failure 

21:27 The ChatGPT-4 lesson: Why celebrating uncertainty is the key to deep-tech innovation

28:34 Why the art of investing means backing the "crazy" founders 

32:34 Overcoming investor trauma for a more vibrant SGX

35:52 Should national R&D focus only on creating unicorns?

44:54 Block 71 and trusting the ecosystem to build a uniquely Singaporean Silicon Valley

Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Host: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg) 

Produced and edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Executive producers: Danson Cheong & Lynda Hong

Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb

Spotify: https://str.sg/w7sV

YouTube: https://str.sg/GjMT

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 

Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts 

---

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The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

---

#inyouropinion

It takes a bold mindset to imagine innovations like Creative&rsquo;s sound card and the iPhone, says a venture capitalist.
Synopsis: Conversations and interviews that give you something to think about. Each Wednesday, In Your Opinion speaks to thinkers, leaders, and the people shaping our lives and the issues of the day.
Following a recent parliamentary debate on growing Fortune Global 500 companies in Singapore, we ask if Singapore can ever grow a homegrown startup into a global tech giant like Apple or Nvidia? Or do our cultural attitudes toward risk and failure limit this potential?
To explore whether Singapore has the ecosystem and vision to build game-changing products that are similar to Creative Technology's sound card or the Apple iPhone, Lynda Hong sits down with Hian Goh, founding partner of Openspace Capital.
Managing a billion-dollar portfolio, and having served as the investment banker to Creative Technology's founder Sim Wong Hoo, Hian discusses the realities of the venture capital world.
In this episode, they examine the role of the Singapore Stock Exchange (SGX) in unlocking private capital, and the challenges of commercialising deep-tech R&amp;D.&nbsp;
The discussion also touches on what it takes for Singapore to cultivate its own Silicon Valley, the necessity of tolerating setbacks, and the value of backing founders with an unreasonable mindset.
Highlights (click/tap above):&nbsp;
1:08 What is actually missing in Singapore's private capital ecosystem?&nbsp;
6:06 Working with Sim Wong Hoo and hitting the structural ceiling&nbsp;
12:40 Love, Bonito and the challenges of scaling a brand out of Singapore&nbsp;
17:43 The "No U-Turn Syndrome" and why younger Singaporeans are breaking the mold&nbsp;
19:16 Silicon Valley's risk appetite vs. Singapore's fear of failure&nbsp;
21:27 The ChatGPT-4 lesson: Why celebrating uncertainty is the key to deep-tech innovation
28:34 Why the art of investing means backing the "crazy" founders&nbsp;
32:34 Overcoming investor trauma for a more vibrant SGX
35:52 Should national R&amp;D focus only on creating unicorns?
44:54 Block 71 and trusting the ecosystem to build a uniquely Singaporean Silicon Valley
Read ST&rsquo;s Opinion section:<a href="https://str.sg/w7sH"> https://str.sg/w7sH</a>
Host: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg)&nbsp;
Produced and edited by: Teo Tong Kai
Executive producers: Danson Cheong &amp; Lynda Hong
Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:
Channel:<a href="https://str.sg/w7Qt">&nbsp;https://str.sg/w7Qt</a>
Apple Podcasts:<a href="https://str.sg/wukb">&nbsp;https://str.sg/wukb</a>
Spotify:<a href="https://str.sg/w7sV">&nbsp;https://str.sg/w7sV</a>
YouTube: <a href="https://str.sg/GjMT">https://str.sg/GjMT</a>
Feedback to: <a href="mailto:podcast@sph.com.sg">podcast@sph.com.sg</a>
---
Follow more ST podcast channels:
All-in-one ST Podcasts channel:&nbsp;<a href="https://str.sg/wvz7">https://str.sg/wvz7</a>&nbsp;
Get more updates:&nbsp;<a href="http://str.sg/stpodcasts">http://str.sg/stpodcasts</a>&nbsp;
---
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---
#inyouropinion

$1b venture capitalist Hian Goh on how Singapore can grow a firm like Apple

Burnt out caregivers 

Caregivers only seek help when crisis hits

Between having a job and caregiving grants 

"Work is respite"

Will the $10m OrangeAid grant help?

How a "staycation" backfires

How to scale tailored support for caregivers?

The dementia tsunami: Scaling support for 2030

Helping care recipients and caregivers

When caregivers reach their breaking point

As Singapore ages, the number of family caregivers is rising, making caregiver respite a key focus. 

Synopsis: Conversations and interviews that give you something to think about. Each Wednesday, In Your Opinion speaks to thinkers, leaders, and the people shaping our lives and the issues of the day.

The rising number of dementia patients is just the tip of the iceberg. An ageing population, chronic illnesses that leave loved ones bedridden, and more awareness of mental health conditions have cast a spotlight on the importance of caregiver respite.

On this episode of In Your Opinion, we look at the mental health struggles faced by caregivers who sacrifice much of themselves in caring for loved ones.

Joining assistant podcast editor Lynda Hong is Tim Oei, CEO of Mindfull Community. Drawing on decades of leadership at major social service agencies like AWWA and the National Kidney Foundation, he talks about caring for the carers, and why some see going to work as a form of respite. 

Oei touches on systemic gaps that could disadvantage asset-rich, cash-poor caregivers, and why quitting your job to be a full-time carer can very quickly lead to burnout. 

They also explore the marathon that is caregiving, and how friends, colleagues and neighbours can take small steps to help.

Highlights (click/tap above): 

3:23 When burnt-out caregivers face health issues

5:34 Caregivers only seek help when crisis hits

9:22 Why having a job can backfire when applying for grants 

11:40 ‘Work is respite’: How some carers see their jobs

14:25 Will the $10m OrangeAid grant help with caregiver burnout?

21:45 Why sending a caregiver on a ‘staycation’ backfired

23:13 How to scale tailored support for caregivers?

26:20 The dementia tsunami: Scaling support for 2030

27:41 Co-location of services to help care recipients and caregivers

34:45 Hitting the wall: When caregivers reach the tragic breaking point

Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Follow Lynda Hong on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/Gm2v

Host: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg) 

Produced and edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Executive producers: Danson Cheong and Lynda Hong

Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb

Spotify: https://str.sg/w7sV

YouTube: https://str.sg/GjMT

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 

Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts 

---

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The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

---

MENTAL WELL-BEING
Mindfull Community HQ (for caregivers, families and persons in recovery): 6460-4400 (weekdays, 9am to 5pm)
National Mindline: 1771 (24 hours) / 6669-1771 (via WhatsApp)
Samaritans of Singapore: 1-767 (24 hours) / 9151-1767 (24 hours CareText via WhatsApp)
Singapore Association for Mental Health: 1800-283-7019
Silver Ribbon Singapore: 6386-1928
Chat, Centre of Excellence for Youth Mental Health: 6493-6500/1 
Women’s Helpline (Aware): 1800-777-5555 (weekdays, 10am to 6pm)
The Seniors Helpline: 1800-555-5555 (weekdays, 9am to 5pm)
Tinkle Friend (for primary school-age children): 1800-2744-788

COUNSELLING
Touchline (Counselling): 1800-377-2252
Touch Care Line (for caregivers): 6804-6555
Counselling and Care Centre: 6536-6366
We Care Community Services: 3165-8017
Shan You Counselling Centre: 6741-9293
Clarity Singapore: 6757-7990
Care Corner Counselling Centre: 6353-1180

ONLINE RESOURCES
mindline.sg/fsmh
eC2.sg
chat.mentalhealth.sg
carey.carecorner.org.sg (for those aged 13 to 25)
limitless.sg/talk (for those aged 12 to 25)

#inyouropinion

As Singapore ages, the number of family caregivers is rising, making caregiver respite a key focus.&nbsp;
Synopsis: Conversations and interviews that give you something to think about. Each Wednesday, In Your Opinion speaks to thinkers, leaders, and the people shaping our lives and the issues of the day.
The rising number of dementia patients is just the tip of the iceberg. An ageing population, chronic illnesses that leave loved ones bedridden, and more awareness of mental health conditions have cast a spotlight on the importance of caregiver respite.
On this episode of In Your Opinion, we look at the mental health struggles faced by caregivers who sacrifice much of themselves in caring for loved ones.
Joining assistant podcast editor Lynda Hong is Tim Oei, CEO of Mindfull Community. Drawing on decades of leadership at major social service agencies like AWWA and the National Kidney Foundation, he talks about caring for the carers, and why some see going to work as a form of respite.&nbsp;
Oei touches on systemic gaps that could disadvantage asset-rich, cash-poor caregivers, and why quitting your job to be a full-time carer can very quickly lead to burnout.&nbsp;
They also explore the marathon that is caregiving, and how friends, colleagues and neighbours can take small steps to help.
Highlights (click/tap above):&nbsp;
3:23 When burnt-out caregivers face health issues
5:34 Caregivers only seek help when crisis hits
9:22 Why having a job can backfire when applying for grants&nbsp;
11:40 &lsquo;Work is respite&rsquo;: How some carers see their jobs
14:25 Will the $10m OrangeAid grant help with caregiver burnout?
21:45 Why sending a caregiver on a &lsquo;staycation&rsquo; backfired
23:13 How to scale tailored support for caregivers?
26:20 The dementia tsunami: Scaling support for 2030
27:41 Co-location of services to help care recipients and caregivers
34:45 Hitting the wall: When caregivers reach the tragic breaking point
Read ST&rsquo;s Opinion section:<a href="https://str.sg/w7sH"> https://str.sg/w7sH</a>
Follow Lynda Hong on LinkedIn:<a href="https://str.sg/Gm2v"> https://str.sg/Gm2v</a>
Host: Lynda Hong (<a href="mailto:lyndahong@sph.com.sg">lyndahong@sph.com.sg)</a>&nbsp;
Produced and edited by: Teo Tong Kai
Executive producers: Danson Cheong and Lynda Hong
Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:
Channel:<a href="https://str.sg/w7Qt">&nbsp;https://str.sg/w7Qt</a>
Apple Podcasts:<a href="https://str.sg/wukb">&nbsp;https://str.sg/wukb</a>
Spotify:<a href="https://str.sg/w7sV">&nbsp;https://str.sg/w7sV</a>
YouTube: <a href="https://str.sg/GjMT">https://str.sg/GjMT</a>
Feedback to: <a href="mailto:podcast@sph.com.sg">podcast@sph.com.sg</a>
---
Follow more ST podcast channels:
All-in-one ST Podcasts channel:&nbsp;<a href="https://str.sg/wvz7">https://str.sg/wvz7</a>&nbsp;
Get more updates:&nbsp;<a href="http://str.sg/stpodcasts">http://str.sg/stpodcasts</a>&nbsp;
---
Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:
The App Store:<a href="https://str.sg/icyB">&nbsp;https://str.sg/icyB</a>
Google Play:<a href="https://str.sg/icyX">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://str.sg/icyX">https://str.sg/icyX</a>
---
MENTAL WELL-BEING
<ul>
<li>Mindfull Community HQ (for caregivers, families and persons in recovery): 6460-4400 (weekdays, 9am to 5pm)</li>
<li>National Mindline: 1771 (24 hours) / 6669-1771 (via WhatsApp)</li>
<li>Samaritans of Singapore: 1-767 (24 hours) / 9151-1767 (24 hours CareText via WhatsApp)</li>
<li>Singapore Association for Mental Health: 1800-283-7019</li>
<li>Silver Ribbon Singapore: 6386-1928</li>
<li>Chat, Centre of Excellence for Youth Mental Health: 6493-6500/1&nbsp;</li>
<li>Women&rsquo;s Helpline (Aware): 1800-777-5555 (weekdays, 10am to 6pm)</li>
<li>The Seniors Helpline: 1800-555-5555 (weekdays, 9am to 5pm)</li>
<li>Tinkle Friend (for primary school-age children): 1800-2744-788</li>
</ul>
COUNSELLING
<ul>
<li>Touchline (Counselling): 1800-377-2252</li>
<li>Touch Care Line (for caregivers): 6804-6555</li>
<li>Counselling and Care Centre: 6536-6366</li>
<li>We Care Community Services: 3165-8017</li>
<li>Shan You Counselling Centre: 6741-9293</li>
<li>Clarity Singapore: 6757-7990</li>
<li>Care Corner Counselling Centre: 6353-1180</li>
</ul>
ONLINE RESOURCES
<ul>
<li><a href="eC2.sg">mindline.sg/fsmh</a></li>
<li><a href="eC2.sg">eC2.sg</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.chat.mentalhealth.sg">chat.mentalhealth.sg</a></li>
<li><a href="http://carey.carecorner.org.sg/">carey.carecorner.org.sg</a> (for those aged 13 to 25)</li>
<li><a href="http://www.limitless.sg/talk">limitless.sg/talk</a> (for those aged 12 to 25)</li>
</ul>
#inyouropinion

A non-profit chief on why caregivers refuse the rest they need and end up hitting a wall

Motherhood and personal advocacy journey

Evolving support systems and challenges

Bridging gaps in learning, working and living

Creating inclusive employment opportunities

How should employers embrace inclusivity?

AI taking over jobs for people w special needs

Personalised support and living models

Straddling between advocacy and her role as MP

Life without parents for people with autism

Denise Phua raised an autistic son and spent decades championing greater inclusion. 

Synopsis: Conversations and interviews that give you something to think about. Each Wednesday, In Your Opinion speaks to thinkers, leaders, and the people shaping our lives and the issues of the day.

The Straits Times Deputy Opinion Editor Mubin Saadat sits with Member of Parliament and President of Autism Resource Centre Denise Phua to discuss her personal journey raising a son with autism and the lessons it has taught her about inclusion. 

The podcast explores the “post-18 cliff” faced by many adults with autism and their families, and what needs to change in learning, employment and living arrangements. 

Denise also discusses the anxieties caregivers face about their children’s futures, especially when parents are no longer around. The conversation examines whether Singapore’s disability policies are keeping pace with the needs of people across their entire lives – and what a truly inclusive society should look like.

Highlights (click/tap above):

0:55 Motherhood and personal advocacy journey

5:55 Evolving support systems and challenges

15:55 Bridging gaps in learning, working and living

22:55 Creating inclusive employment opportunities

29:35 What would you say to employers to embrace inclusivity?

37:25 Will AI take over jobs meant for people with special needs?

40:35 Personalised support and living models

47:10 On straddling between advocacy and her role as MP

51:05 Grappling with life without parents for people with autism

Read more: 
Going beyond tackling misconceptions about autism: https://str.sg/xaFs
When you’re told you’re ‘not autistic enough’: https://str.sg/sXC4
Walk a mile in my shoes as mother of two children with autism: https://str.sg/EpUu
Autism lasts a lifetime. Can support stay the course?: https://str.sg/LR3om
Autism in the workplace is about more than job placement: https://str.sg/apLC
We are more aware of autism, but how well do we understand it?: https://str.sg/ejLE
Schools have integrated children with autism. Have they included them?: https://str.sg/qgmz

Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Follow Mubin Saadat on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/brVx

Host: Mubin Saadat (mubin@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Executive producers: Danson Cheong and Lynda Hong

Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb

Spotify: https://str.sg/w7sV

YouTube: https://str.sg/GjMT

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

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

---

#inyouropinion

Denise Phua raised an autistic son and spent decades championing greater inclusion.&nbsp;
Synopsis: Conversations and interviews that give you something to think about. Each Wednesday, In Your Opinion speaks to thinkers, leaders, and the people shaping our lives and the issues of the day.
The Straits Times Deputy Opinion Editor Mubin Saadat sits with Member of Parliament and President of Autism Resource Centre Denise Phua to discuss her personal journey raising a son with autism and the lessons it has taught her about inclusion.&nbsp;
The podcast explores the &ldquo;post-18 cliff&rdquo; faced by many adults with autism and their families, and what needs to change in learning, employment and living arrangements.&nbsp;
Denise also discusses the anxieties caregivers face about their children&rsquo;s futures, especially when parents are no longer around. The conversation examines whether Singapore&rsquo;s disability policies are keeping pace with the needs of people across their entire lives &ndash; and what a truly inclusive society should look like.
Highlights (click/tap above):
0:55 Motherhood and personal advocacy journey
5:55 Evolving support systems and challenges
15:55 Bridging gaps in learning, working and living
22:55 Creating inclusive employment opportunities
29:35 What would you say to employers to embrace inclusivity?
37:25 Will AI take over jobs meant for people with special needs?
40:35 Personalised support and living models
47:10 On straddling between advocacy and her role as MP
51:05 Grappling with life without parents for people with autism
Read more:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Going beyond tackling misconceptions about autism:&nbsp;<a href="https://str.sg/xaFs">https://str.sg/xaFs</a></li>
<li>When you&rsquo;re told you&rsquo;re &lsquo;not autistic enough&rsquo;: <a href="https://str.sg/sXC4">https://str.sg/sXC4</a></li>
<li>Walk a mile in my shoes as mother of two children with autism: <a href="https://str.sg/EpUu">https://str.sg/EpUu</a></li>
<li>Autism lasts a lifetime. Can support stay the course?: <a href="https://str.sg/LR3om">https://str.sg/LR3om</a></li>
<li>Autism in the workplace is about more than job placement: <a href="https://str.sg/apLC">https://str.sg/apLC</a></li>
<li>We are more aware of autism, but how well do we understand it?: <a href="https://str.sg/ejLE">https://str.sg/ejLE</a></li>
<li>Schools have integrated children with autism. Have they included them?: <a href="https://str.sg/qgmz">https://str.sg/qgmz</a></li>
</ul>
Read ST&rsquo;s Opinion section: <a href="https://str.sg/w7sH">https://str.sg/w7sH</a>
Follow Mubin Saadat on LinkedIn: <a href="https://str.sg/brVx">https://str.sg/brVx</a>
Host: Mubin Saadat (<a href="mailto:mubin@sph.com.sg">mubin@sph.com.sg</a>)
Produced and edited by: Teo Tong Kai
Executive producers: Danson Cheong and Lynda Hong
Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:
Channel: <a href="https://str.sg/w7Qt">https://str.sg/w7Qt</a>
Apple Podcasts: <a href="https://str.sg/wukb">https://str.sg/wukb</a>
Spotify: <a href="https://str.sg/w7sV">https://str.sg/w7sV</a>
YouTube: <a href="https://str.sg/GjMT">https://str.sg/GjMT</a>
Feedback to: <a href="mailto:podcast@sph.com.sg">podcast@sph.com.sg</a>
---
Follow more ST podcast channels:
All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: <a href="https://str.sg/wvz7">https://str.sg/wvz7</a>
Get more updates:&nbsp;<a href="http://str.sg/stpodcasts">http://str.sg/stpodcasts</a>&nbsp;
---
Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:
The App Store:&nbsp;<a href="https://str.sg/icyB">https://str.sg/icyB</a>
Google Play: <a href="https://str.sg/icyX">https://str.sg/icyX</a>
---
#inyouropinion

My son has autism, he changed how I think about success and significance | MP Denise Phua

DELTA study tech: vitals & biological age

How exactly DELTA differs from Blueprint

Optimise your biology knowing your delta

Ho detailing interaction with B. Johnson

Bryan Johnson's sleep focus is inspiring

Did Ho take testosterone, HGH, or others

Why DELTA study sample size of one works

Using a digital twin for health strategy

Human behaviour beats the best medicines

Small steps: Kopi O Kosong, sleep longer

The real reason Ho pursues his longevity

Longevity pursuit vs the quality of life

An NUS scientist reversed his own biological age after stress-testing his diet, sleep and exercise in a longevity study 

Synopsis: Conversations and interviews that give you something to think about. Each Wednesday, In Your Opinion speaks to thinkers, leaders, and the people shaping our lives and the issues of the day.

Strict bedtimes, daily exercise and cutbacks to fat and sugar intake are usually gleaned from big data as standard advice for better health. But what if you could effectively tailor these rules for your own body? 

To find out more about how an individual’s biological baseline shifts over time, Dean Ho, director of the Institute for Digital Medicine (WisDM) at NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine (NUS Medicine),  embarked on a two-year study on himself to develop a technology that analyses the data from wearables. 

Known as DELTA, this study had helped reverse the 47-year-old's biological age by 15 years, after undergoing a series of lifestyle interventions, including varying fasting durations, exercise routines and nutrition adjustments. Throughout the process, this biological response was monitored in real-time to track a biological baseline shaped by age, stress, sleep, food, exercise and illness. 

His intense regimen included around 20 hours of fasting each day, multiple 48-hour fasts, 90 minutes of strength or cardiovascular training every morning, and a structured diet centred on leafy greens, seeds, olive oil, lean protein, and other Mediterranean-style foods. His beverages were limited to water, electrolytes, and black coffee or tea without milk and sugar.

In this episode of In Your Opinion, Lynda Hong, assistant podcast editor from The Straits Times, sits down with Ho, who is also provost’s chair professor at the NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine. They delve into why he embarked on this study with just himself as the study sample, and how he can still eat everything from chicken rice, and pizza to five chendols in 2.5 days when he went on a trip to Penang with his son. 

Highlights (click/tap above): 

7:48 Technology aspect to DELTA study in analysing vitals and biological age

10:00 How DELTA differs from Project Blueprint

12:52 Have your pizza and eat it too - understanding 'your delta' to optimise your biology

15:24 Ho’s interaction with Bryan Johnson 

15:52 Ho on Bryan Johnson: ‘His dedication to sleep is inspiring’ 

17:46 Did Ho take any testosterone replacements, HGH, supplements? 

20:30 Why a sample size of one is enough for the DELTA study

27:08 The function of a ‘digital twin’ in tailoring strategies to improve health

30:05 ‘Human behavior is more powerful than the most powerful medicines on the planet’

39:00 Taking small steps to drinking Kopi ‘O’ Kosong and sleeping more

43:00 Beyond the wrinkles and cutting sugar to the real reason why Ho pursues longevity

52:10 The Pursuit of Longevity vs. Quality of Life

Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Follow Lynda Hong on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/Gm2v

Host: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg) 

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Danson Cheong and Lynda Hong

Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb

Spotify: https://str.sg/w7sV

YouTube: https://str.sg/GjMT

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

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All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 

Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts 

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#inyouropinion

An NUS scientist reversed his own biological age after stress-testing his diet, sleep and exercise in a longevity study&nbsp;
Synopsis: Conversations and interviews that give you something to think about. Each Wednesday, In Your Opinion speaks to thinkers, leaders, and the people shaping our lives and the issues of the day.
Strict bedtimes, daily exercise and cutbacks to fat and sugar intake are usually gleaned from big data as standard advice for better health. But what if you could effectively tailor these rules for your own body?&nbsp;
To find out more about how an individual&rsquo;s biological baseline shifts over time, Dean Ho, director of the Institute for Digital Medicine (WisDM) at NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine (NUS Medicine),&nbsp; embarked on a two-year study on himself to develop a technology that analyses the data from wearables.&nbsp;
Known as DELTA, this study had helped reverse the 47-year-old's biological age by 15 years, after undergoing a series of lifestyle interventions, including varying fasting durations, exercise routines and nutrition adjustments. Throughout the process, this biological response was monitored in real-time to track a biological baseline shaped by age, stress, sleep, food, exercise and illness.&nbsp; His intense regimen included around 20 hours of fasting each day, multiple 48-hour fasts, 90 minutes of strength or cardiovascular training every morning, and a structured diet centred on leafy greens, seeds, olive oil, lean protein, and other Mediterranean-style foods. His beverages were limited to water, electrolytes, and black coffee or tea without milk and sugar.
In this episode of In Your Opinion, Lynda Hong, assistant podcast editor from The Straits Times, sits down with Ho, who is also provost&rsquo;s chair professor at the NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine. They delve into why he embarked on this study with just himself as the study sample, and how he can still eat everything from chicken rice, and pizza to five chendols in 2.5 days when he went on a trip to Penang with his son.&nbsp;
Highlights (click/tap above):&nbsp;
7:48 Technology aspect to DELTA study in analysing vitals and biological age
10:00 How DELTA differs from Project Blueprint
12:52 Have your pizza and eat it too - understanding 'your delta' to optimise your biology
15:24 Ho&rsquo;s interaction with Bryan Johnson&nbsp;
15:52 Ho on Bryan Johnson: &lsquo;His dedication to sleep is inspiring&rsquo;&nbsp;
17:46 Did Ho take any testosterone replacements, HGH, supplements?&nbsp;
20:30 Why a sample size of one is enough for the DELTA study
27:08 The function of a &lsquo;digital twin&rsquo; in tailoring strategies to improve health
30:05 &lsquo;Human behavior is more powerful than the most powerful medicines on the planet&rsquo;
39:00 Taking small steps to drinking Kopi &lsquo;O&rsquo; Kosong and sleeping more
43:00 Beyond the wrinkles and cutting sugar to the real reason why Ho pursues longevity
52:10 The Pursuit of Longevity vs. Quality of Life
Read ST&rsquo;s Opinion section:<a href="https://str.sg/w7sH"> https://str.sg/w7sH</a>
Follow Lynda Hong on LinkedIn:<a href="https://str.sg/Gm2v"> https://str.sg/Gm2v</a>
Host: Lynda Hong (<a href="mailto:lyndahong@sph.com.sg">lyndahong@sph.com.sg)</a>&nbsp;
Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim
Executive producers: Danson Cheong and Lynda Hong
Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:
Channel:<a href="https://str.sg/w7Qt">&nbsp;https://str.sg/w7Qt</a>
Apple Podcasts:<a href="https://str.sg/wukb">&nbsp;https://str.sg/wukb</a>
Spotify:<a href="https://str.sg/w7sV">&nbsp;https://str.sg/w7sV</a>
YouTube: <a href="https://str.sg/GjMT">https://str.sg/GjMT</a>
Feedback to: <a href="mailto:podcast@sph.com.sg">podcast@sph.com.sg</a>
---
Follow more ST podcast channels:
All-in-one ST Podcasts channel:&nbsp;<a href="https://str.sg/wvz7">https://str.sg/wvz7</a>&nbsp;
Get more updates:&nbsp;<a href="http://str.sg/stpodcasts">http://str.sg/stpodcasts</a>&nbsp;
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---
#inyouropinion

Sleep earlier: NUS scientist Dean Ho on the top thing people can do to live longer

Is the GRC system due for a review?

Limits of the Elected Presidency 

The NCMP scheme

Being J.B. Jeyaretnam’s “sparring partner”

Was LKY more open to persuasion than we think?

What it takes to recruit capable Ministers

DEFCO: Overseeing national security

Constitutional institutions due for a refresh?

Balancing ministerial duties and family life

The former senior minister unveils the robust Cabinet debates over three defining institutions published in a new book.

Synopsis: Conversations and interviews that give you something to think about. Each Wednesday, In Your Opinion speaks to thinkers, leaders, and the people shaping our lives and the issues of the day.

Governing Singapore today is a tough task, made more difficult by frequent comparisons with the immediate post-independence decades - a period dominated by the towering figure of founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew. 

Yet was Lee more open to persuasion than we realise? Was governing Singapore far more complex, nuanced and more akin to a team sport? What enabled the Singapore Cabinet to have vociferous debates on policy including the Elected Presidency, the Group Representation Constituency and the Non-Constituency Member of Parliament?

And after recent developments and the power of hindsight, would one of their chief architects say they’re due for a refresh?

These are the subjects of the book Creating Three Unique Singapore Laws: An Inside Story by S. Jayakumar, launched on Aug 12.

In an exclusive hour-long podcast with The Straits Times opinion editor Lin Suling, he opens up on Cabinet deliberations and sheds light on a milieu in Singapore’s history after the 1981 Anson by-election, which sparked the creation of three powerful institutions that have become indelible parts of Singapore’s political system. 

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:44 Are recent resignations of minority Members of Parliament a setback for the GRC system? Is the GRC system due for a review?

12:58 Has public understanding on the limits of the Elected Presidency improved?

21:21 Was the NCMP scheme created to secure the ruling People’s Action Party’s dominance in Parliament?

29:26 Do PAP backbenchers pull their punches in Parliament? What was it like being J B Jeyaretnam’s “sparring partner”?

31:36 Was Lee Kuan Yew actually more open to persuasion than Singaporeans realise?

33:10 What allowed Lee’s Cabinet to have such vociferous debates? Does S Jayakumar worry about political correctness dampening discussions? What does it take to recruit capable Cabinet Ministers?

40:45 Why did a proposal on constitutional design go through DEFCO - the defence council overseeing national security?

44:00 Are any of Singapore's constitutional institutions due for a refresh? 

46:59 How did S Jayakumar balance heavy ministerial portfolios with constituency duties in Bedok and family life?

Creating Three Unique Singapore Laws: An Inside Story is published by Straits Times Press and available for $38.90 (excluding GST) at major bookstores and online at https://www.stbooks.sg/

Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH

Follow Lin Suling on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/hiLQ

Host: Lin Suling (linsuling@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Teo Tong Kai

Executive producers: Danson Cheong and Lynda Hong

Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb

Spotify: https://str.sg/w7sV

YouTube: https://str.sg/GjMT

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

---

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

---

#inyouropinion

The former senior minister unveils the robust Cabinet debates over three defining institutions published in a new book.
Synopsis: Conversations and interviews that give you something to think about. Each Wednesday, In Your Opinion speaks to thinkers, leaders, and the people shaping our lives and the issues of the day.
Governing Singapore today is a tough task, made more difficult by frequent comparisons with the immediate post-independence decades - a period dominated by the towering figure of founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew.&nbsp;
Yet was Lee more open to persuasion than we realise? Was governing Singapore far more complex, nuanced and more akin to a team sport?&nbsp;What enabled the Singapore Cabinet to have vociferous debates on policy including the Elected Presidency, the Group Representation Constituency and the Non-Constituency Member of Parliament?
And after recent developments and the power of hindsight, would one of their chief architects say they&rsquo;re due for a refresh?
These are the subjects of the book Creating Three Unique Singapore Laws: An Inside Story by S. Jayakumar, launched on Aug 12.
In an exclusive hour-long podcast with The Straits Times opinion editor Lin Suling, he opens up on Cabinet deliberations and sheds light on a milieu in Singapore&rsquo;s history after the 1981 Anson by-election, which sparked the creation of three powerful institutions that have become indelible parts of Singapore&rsquo;s political system.&nbsp;
Highlights (click/tap above):
1:44 Are recent resignations of minority Members of Parliament a setback for the GRC system? Is the GRC system due for a review?
12:58 Has public understanding on the limits of the Elected Presidency improved?
21:21 Was the NCMP scheme created to secure the ruling People&rsquo;s Action Party&rsquo;s dominance in Parliament?
29:26 Do PAP backbenchers pull their punches in Parliament? What was it like being J B Jeyaretnam&rsquo;s &ldquo;sparring partner&rdquo;?
31:36 Was Lee Kuan Yew actually more open to persuasion than Singaporeans realise?
33:10 What allowed Lee&rsquo;s Cabinet to have such vociferous debates? Does S Jayakumar worry about political correctness dampening discussions? What does it take to recruit capable Cabinet Ministers?
40:45 Why did a proposal on constitutional design go through DEFCO - the defence council overseeing national security?
44:00 Are any of Singapore's constitutional institutions due for a refresh?&nbsp;
46:59 How did S Jayakumar balance heavy ministerial portfolios with constituency duties in Bedok and family life?
Creating Three Unique Singapore Laws: An Inside Story is published by Straits Times Press and available for $38.90 (excluding GST) at major bookstores and online at <a href="https://www.stbooks.sg/">https://www.stbooks.sg/</a>
Read ST&rsquo;s Opinion section: <a href="https://str.sg/w7sH">https://str.sg/w7sH</a>
Follow Lin Suling on LinkedIn: <a href="https://str.sg/hiLQ">https://str.sg/hiLQ</a>
Host: Lin Suling (<a href="mailto:linsuling@sph.com.sg">linsuling@sph.com.sg</a>)
Produced and edited by: Teo Tong Kai
Executive producers: Danson Cheong and Lynda Hong
Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:
Channel:<a href="https://str.sg/w7Qt">&nbsp;https://str.sg/w7Qt</a>
Apple Podcasts:<a href="https://str.sg/wukb">&nbsp;https://str.sg/wukb</a>
Spotify:<a href="https://str.sg/w7sV">&nbsp;https://str.sg/w7sV</a>
YouTube: <a href="https://str.sg/GjMT">https://str.sg/GjMT</a>
Feedback to: <a href="mailto:podcast@sph.com.sg">podcast@sph.com.sg</a>
---
Follow more ST podcast channels:
All-in-one ST Podcasts channel:&nbsp;<a href="https://str.sg/wvz7">https://str.sg/wvz7</a>&nbsp;
Get more updates:&nbsp;<a href="http://str.sg/stpodcasts">http://str.sg/stpodcasts</a>&nbsp;
---
Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:
The App Store:<a href="https://str.sg/icyB">&nbsp;https://str.sg/icyB</a>
Google Play:<a href="https://str.sg/icyX">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://str.sg/icyX">https://str.sg/icyX</a>
---
#inyouropinion

Lee Kuan Yew arrowed me to face JB Jeyaretnam: Ex-SM S Jayakumar on being in LKY’s Cabinet

Synopsis: Conversations and interviews that give you something to think about. Each Wednesday, In Your Opinion speaks to thinkers, leaders, and the people shaping our lives and the issues of the day.

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Danson Cheong & Lynda Hong

A podcast by The Straits Times, SPH Media.

Synopsis: Conversations and interviews that give you something to think about. Each Wednesday, In Your Opinion speaks to thinkers, leaders, and the people shaping our lives and the issues of the day.
Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim
Executive producers: Danson Cheong &amp; Lynda Hong
A podcast by The Straits Times, SPH Media.

In Your Opinion

A hard look at the social issues of the month in Singapore. Join ST journalists and other guests as they discuss with Lydia Wong.

In Your Opinion

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