What do pop lyrics, kaya toast, and kampung kitchens have in common?

They’re all portals into the Merdeka Generation.In this episode of Read with Michelle, host Michelle Martin sits down with award-winning author Josephine Chia to explore her latest short story collection Merdeka Generation Groovers and Other Stories.

Through whimsical characters and soulful kampung scenes, Chia honours Singapore’s Merdeka Generation—those born in a time of struggle, now aging in a rapidly modernising nation.

What does it mean to grow old in a young country?

How do humour and heartbreak mix in tales of resilience?

Tune in as Michelle and Josephine discuss the legacy, music, and meaning woven into these richly local stories.

What do pop lyrics, kaya toast, and kampung kitchens have in common?
They&rsquo;re all portals into the Merdeka Generation.In this episode of Read with Michelle, host Michelle Martin sits down with award-winning author Josephine Chia to explore her latest short story collection&nbsp;Merdeka Generation Groovers and Other Stories.
Through whimsical characters and soulful kampung scenes, Chia honours Singapore&rsquo;s Merdeka Generation&mdash;those born in a time of struggle, now aging in a rapidly modernising nation.
What does it mean to grow old in a young country?
How do humour and heartbreak mix in tales of resilience?
Tune in as Michelle and Josephine discuss the legacy, music, and meaning woven into these richly local stories.

Start your day on a positive note with Live Well with Michelle Martin.

Start your day on a positive note with Live Well with Michelle Martin.

The show explores wellbeing in all its dimensions — from self-awareness and personal growth to money, investing, and everyday lifestyle. Through thoughtful interviews and engaging conversations, Michelle speaks with experts and changemakers on living and ageing well, while helping you discover new ideas — from great books on READ and inspiring voices on INFLUENCE, to practical financial insights on MONEY AND ME.

In a fast-moving world that can often feel overwhelming, Live Well offers a refreshing counterpoint — with insights, ideas and stories that help you feel informed, empowered and ready to take on the day.

Start your day on a positive note with Live Well with Michelle Martin.
The show explores wellbeing in all its dimensions &mdash; from self-awareness and personal growth to money, investing, and everyday lifestyle. Through thoughtful interviews and engaging conversations, Michelle speaks with experts and changemakers on living and ageing well, while helping you discover new ideas &mdash; from great books on READ and inspiring voices on INFLUENCE, to practical financial insights on MONEY AND ME.
In a fast-moving world that can often feel overwhelming, Live Well offers a refreshing counterpoint &mdash; with insights, ideas and stories that help you feel informed, empowered and ready to take on the day.