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Guest: Dennis Yap, 4th Generation Singaporean, Founder of Seer.AI

In this episode of Ten Talents, we sit down with Dennis Yap, a fourth-generation Singaporean and startup founder of Seer.AI, to discuss his personal and professional journey. Growing up in a Christian home surrounded by the "Crazy Rich Asian" environment, Dennis faced the pressure of meeting incredibly high expectations.

It wasn’t until he became a student at UC San Diego that he finally felt free to explore his own identity, discovering his true calling away from familial and societal pressures. Dennis shares how his time at UCSD shaped his perspective, followed by his pursuit of a Master's degree at Princeton University, where his passion for integrating faith and work deepened.

We also explore Dennis’s pivotal experience working for the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, which played a major role in his commitment to integrating technology, social impact, and faith. This experience inspired him to found Seer.AI, a startup focused on AI safety, a topic we’ll dive into in a future episode of Silicon Valley Insider with Keith Koo.

This episode is a powerful reminder of how faith, education, and purpose can intersect to drive innovation and meaningful impact in today’s world.

Key Points Discussed:

· Growing up with high expectations in a "Crazy Rich Asian" environment

· Discovering personal identity and calling at UC San Diego

· Integrating faith into work through his Master's journey at Princeton

· Shaping social impact through his work with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation

· The founding of Seer.AI and its mission in AI safety

Stay tuned for an upcoming episode of Silicon Valley Insider where we’ll explore Seer.AI and its groundbreaking work in AI safety.

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Thank You and Stay Connected:

· Don’t forget to subscribe to Ten Talents with Keith Koo for more insightful episodes on faith and entertainment.

· Share this episode with friends, family, or anyone interested in how to live your calling with purpose.

Follow Ten Talents: Stay updated on the latest episodes and insights by following us on your favorite podcast platforms. https://kfax.com/podcast/details/ten-talents

Don't forget to subscribe to Ten Talents with Keith Koo for more insightful episodes and leave a review to let us know what you think!

For more information on Ten Talents go to: www.xtalents.com

Guest: Dennis Yap, 4th Generation Singaporean, Founder of Seer.AI
In this episode of Ten Talents, we sit down with Dennis Yap, a fourth-generation Singaporean and startup founder of Seer.AI, to discuss his personal and professional journey. Growing up in a Christian home surrounded by the "Crazy Rich Asian" environment, Dennis faced the pressure of meeting incredibly high expectations.
It wasn’t until he became a student at UC San Diego that he finally felt free to explore his own identity, discovering his true calling away from familial and societal pressures. Dennis shares how his time at UCSD shaped his perspective, followed by his pursuit of a Master's degree at Princeton University, where his passion for integrating faith and work deepened.
We also explore Dennis’s pivotal experience working for the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, which played a major role in his commitment to integrating technology, social impact, and faith. This experience inspired him to found Seer.AI, a startup focused on AI safety, a topic we’ll dive into in a future episode of Silicon Valley Insider with Keith Koo.
This episode is a powerful reminder of how faith, education, and purpose can intersect to drive innovation and meaningful impact in today’s world.
Key Points Discussed:
· Growing up with high expectations in a "Crazy Rich Asian" environment
· Discovering personal identity and calling at UC San Diego
· Integrating faith into work through his Master's journey at Princeton
· Shaping social impact through his work with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation
· The founding of Seer.AI and its mission in AI safety
Stay tuned for an upcoming episode of Silicon Valley Insider where we’ll explore Seer.AI and its groundbreaking work in AI safety.
---
Thank You and Stay Connected:
· Don’t forget to subscribe to Ten Talents with Keith Koo for more insightful episodes on faith and entertainment.
· Share this episode with friends, family, or anyone interested in how to live your calling with purpose.
Follow Ten Talents: Stay updated on the latest episodes and insights by following us on your favorite podcast platforms. https://kfax.com/podcast/details/ten-talents
Don't forget to subscribe to Ten Talents with Keith Koo for more insightful episodes and leave a review to let us know what you think!
For more information on Ten Talents go to: www.xtalents.com

Everyone has something unique to offer the world, Ten Talents wants to help people discover their gifts and use them to make a difference. Join Host Keith Koo for Ten Talents a ministry program bringing you interviews with some of America's premier leaders in finance, technology, sports, entrepreneurs and ministry. Learn how Jesus is using these individuals to change lives, and you just might be encourage in how Jesus wants to use you. 

Everyone has something unique to offer the world, Ten Talents wants to help people discover their gifts and use them to make a difference. Join Host Keith Koo for Ten Talents a ministry program bringing you interviews with some of America's premier leaders in finance, technology, sports, entrepreneurs and ministry. Learn how Jesus is using these individuals to change lives, and you just might be encourage in how Jesus wants to use you.

Ten Talents

Chasing Identity in a World of High Expectations: Dennis Yap’s CEO of Seer

Guest: Thomas Kang, Chief Revenue Officer of Finmo.net

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Episode Summary:

In this inspiring episode of Ten Talents with Keith Koo, we welcome Thomas Kang, the Chief Revenue Officer of Finmo. Thomas opens up about his spiritual journey and how his faith is woven into every facet of his life and career. He shares how his beliefs influence his leadership style, decision-making, and interactions with others in the business world. Discover how Thomas is sometimes led to pray for his interviewees during deep conversations about their career paths, offering support that goes beyond professional guidance.

Key Takeaways:

· Faith in Everyday Life: Learn how Thomas incorporates his spiritual beliefs into his daily routines and professional responsibilities.

· Leadership Grounded in Values: Understand how faith shapes Thomas's approach to leadership and team dynamics.

· Empathy and Support: Explore the importance of offering emotional and spiritual support in professional settings.

· Prayerful Conversations: Hear anecdotes of Thomas feeling compelled to pray for others during meaningful discussions about their careers.

· Balancing Career and Beliefs: Gain insights into maintaining personal faith while pursuing professional excellence.

Guest Contact Information: · Thomas Kang on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/thomaskangfxism

Additional Resources: · Learn More About Finmo: Visit finmo.net to see how Thomas integrates his values within his professional work.

Connect with Us:

If this episode resonated with you, subscribe to Ten Talents with Keith Koo for more uplifting stories of individuals who blend faith and career. Please leave us a review and share this episode with anyone interested in integrating their spiritual beliefs into their professional lives.

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Ten Talents' Vision:

Ten Talents’ vision is to create a movement that entrusts people to make an impact. We believe that everyone has something unique to offer the world, and we want to help people discover their gifts and use them to make a difference. We do this through media, events, content, and innovation.

· Media: We create media that inspires and informs people, helping them connect with others who share their passions.

· Events: We host events that bring people together to learn, grow, and be empowered to make a difference.

· Content: We produce content that is helpful and engaging, assisting people in discovering their gifts and using them to make a difference.

· Innovation: We believe that innovation is an essential part of unlocking your potential. Visit xtalents.com to learn more.

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Tune in to gain valuable insights on navigating the fast-paced world of Silicon Valley without losing sight of your spiritual calling and discover how to make a lasting impact in both your professional and personal life.

Guest: Thomas Kang, Chief Revenue Officer of Finmo.net
---
Episode Summary:
In this inspiring episode of Ten Talents with Keith Koo, we welcome Thomas Kang, the Chief Revenue Officer of Finmo. Thomas opens up about his spiritual journey and how his faith is woven into every facet of his life and career. He shares how his beliefs influence his leadership style, decision-making, and interactions with others in the business world. Discover how Thomas is sometimes led to pray for his interviewees during deep conversations about their career paths, offering support that goes beyond professional guidance.
Key Takeaways:
· Faith in Everyday Life: Learn how Thomas incorporates his spiritual beliefs into his daily routines and professional responsibilities.
· Leadership Grounded in Values: Understand how faith shapes Thomas's approach to leadership and team dynamics.
· Empathy and Support: Explore the importance of offering emotional and spiritual support in professional settings.
· Prayerful Conversations: Hear anecdotes of Thomas feeling compelled to pray for others during meaningful discussions about their careers.
· Balancing Career and Beliefs: Gain insights into maintaining personal faith while pursuing professional excellence.
Guest Contact Information: · Thomas Kang on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/thomaskangfxism
Additional Resources: · Learn More About Finmo: Visit finmo.net to see how Thomas integrates his values within his professional work.
Connect with Us:
If this episode resonated with you, subscribe to Ten Talents with Keith Koo for more uplifting stories of individuals who blend faith and career. Please leave us a review and share this episode with anyone interested in integrating their spiritual beliefs into their professional lives.
---
Ten Talents' Vision:
Ten Talents’ vision is to create a movement that entrusts people to make an impact. We believe that everyone has something unique to offer the world, and we want to help people discover their gifts and use them to make a difference. We do this through media, events, content, and innovation.
· Media: We create media that inspires and informs people, helping them connect with others who share their passions.
· Events: We host events that bring people together to learn, grow, and be empowered to make a difference.
· Content: We produce content that is helpful and engaging, assisting people in discovering their gifts and using them to make a difference.
· Innovation: We believe that innovation is an essential part of unlocking your potential. Visit xtalents.com to learn more.
---
Tune in to gain valuable insights on navigating the fast-paced world of Silicon Valley without losing sight of your spiritual calling and discover how to make a lasting impact in both your professional and personal life.

Integrating Belief and Business: A Talk with Thomas Kang, CRO of Finmo.net

Guest: Pastor Paul Taylor, Peninsula Bible Church & Co-Founder of the Bay Area Center for Faith, Work & Tech

Special Mention: Denise Lee Yohn, Co-Founder of the Bay Area Center for Faith, Work & Tech

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Overview:

In this episode of "Ten Talents," host Keith Koo welcomes Pastor Paul Taylor to discuss his remarkable journey that seamlessly blends elite education, a thriving tech career, and a calling to full-time ministry. From his high school days, Paul had a clear vision: attend a top-tier university, make an impact in the tech industry, and ultimately serve as a pastor. He realized this plan by studying at Stanford, working at Oracle, and pursuing seminary.

Key Topics:

· Early Vision and Ambition: How Paul's high school aspirations set the course for his future.

· Silicon Valley as the Modern-Day Rome: Exploring how this global tech hub influences the world and its parallels to ancient centers of culture and power.

· Integrating Faith, Work, and Technology: Delving into the mission of the Bay Area Center for Faith, Work & Tech, co-founded by Denise Lee Yohn and Pastor Paul Taylor, which aims to equip professionals to live out their faith authentically in the workplace.

· Teaching and Discipleship: The importance of mentorship and spiritual guidance in both personal and professional realms.

About the Bay Area Center for Faith, Work & Tech:

Co-founded by Denise Lee Yohn, a respected author and brand leadership expert (LinkedIn), and Pastor Paul Taylor (LinkedIn), the Bay Area Center for Faith, Work & Tech is dedicated to bridging the gap between faith and the tech industry. The organization provides resources, community events, and educational programs to help professionals navigate ethical challenges, foster genuine connections, and integrate their spiritual beliefs with their careers in technology.

---

Ten Talents' Vision:

Ten Talents’ vision is to create a movement that entrusts people to make an impact. We believe that everyone has something unique to offer the world, and we want to help people discover their gifts and use them to make a difference. We do this through media, events, content, and innovation.

· Media: We create media that inspires and informs people, helping them connect with others who share their passions.

· Events: We host events that bring people together to learn, grow, and be empowered to make a difference.

· Content: We produce content that is helpful and engaging, assisting people in discovering their gifts and using them to make a difference.

· Innovation: We believe that innovation is an essential part of unlocking your potential. Visit xtalents.com to learn more.

---

Tune in to gain valuable insights on navigating the fast-paced world of Silicon Valley without losing sight of your spiritual calling, and discover how to make a lasting impact in both your professional and personal life.

Guest: Pastor Paul Taylor, Peninsula Bible Church &amp; Co-Founder of the Bay Area Center for Faith, Work &amp; Tech
Special Mention: Denise Lee Yohn, Co-Founder of the Bay Area Center for Faith, Work &amp; Tech
---
Overview:
In this episode of "Ten Talents," host Keith Koo welcomes Pastor Paul Taylor to discuss his remarkable journey that seamlessly blends elite education, a thriving tech career, and a calling to full-time ministry. From his high school days, Paul had a clear vision: attend a top-tier university, make an impact in the tech industry, and ultimately serve as a pastor. He realized this plan by studying at Stanford, working at Oracle, and pursuing seminary.
Key Topics:
· Early Vision and Ambition: How Paul's high school aspirations set the course for his future.
· Silicon Valley as the Modern-Day Rome: Exploring how this global tech hub influences the world and its parallels to ancient centers of culture and power.
· Integrating Faith, Work, and Technology: Delving into the mission of the Bay Area Center for Faith, Work &amp; Tech, co-founded by Denise Lee Yohn and Pastor Paul Taylor, which aims to equip professionals to live out their faith authentically in the workplace.
· Teaching and Discipleship: The importance of mentorship and spiritual guidance in both personal and professional realms.
About the Bay Area Center for Faith, Work &amp; Tech:
Co-founded by Denise Lee Yohn, a respected author and brand leadership expert (LinkedIn), and Pastor Paul Taylor (LinkedIn), the Bay Area Center for Faith, Work &amp; Tech is dedicated to bridging the gap between faith and the tech industry. The organization provides resources, community events, and educational programs to help professionals navigate ethical challenges, foster genuine connections, and integrate their spiritual beliefs with their careers in technology.
---
Ten Talents' Vision:
Ten Talents’ vision is to create a movement that entrusts people to make an impact. We believe that everyone has something unique to offer the world, and we want to help people discover their gifts and use them to make a difference. We do this through media, events, content, and innovation.
· Media: We create media that inspires and informs people, helping them connect with others who share their passions.
· Events: We host events that bring people together to learn, grow, and be empowered to make a difference.
· Content: We produce content that is helpful and engaging, assisting people in discovering their gifts and using them to make a difference.
· Innovation: We believe that innovation is an essential part of unlocking your potential. Visit xtalents.com to learn more.
---
Tune in to gain valuable insights on navigating the fast-paced world of Silicon Valley without losing sight of your spiritual calling, and discover how to make a lasting impact in both your professional and personal life.

Paul Taylor: Navigating Faith, Work & Tech

Host: Keith Koo

Guest: Andrew Laffoon, Founder and CEO of Mixbook

Episode Title: "Printed with Purpose: Andrew Laffoon on Faith, Storytelling, and Mixbook"

Overview: In this episode of Ten Talents, Keith Koo interviews Andrew Laffoon, Founder and CEO of Mixbook, who shares his inspiring journey from a small rural town in North Carolina to leading an award-winning tech company. Raised as the son of a pastor, Andrew’s faith has been central to both his life and his leadership at Mixbook.

Key Discussion Points:

· Faith and Upbringing: Andrew discusses his roots in a pastor's family and how his faith has shaped his values, leadership style, and purpose in business.

· Tech Passion and UC Berkeley: Despite growing up in a rural environment, Andrew nurtured an early passion for technology, which led him to UC Berkeley and ultimately to founding Mixbook.

· Building Mixbook: Andrew shares the challenges and rewards of launching Mixbook, a platform for storytelling through photobooks, at a time when the tech world was moving toward digital-only solutions. His faith guided him through difficult decisions and setbacks.

· Faith in Leadership: Andrew emphasizes how his faith is integral to his leadership at Mixbook, influencing the company culture and team. His focus on servant leadership and integrity reflects his personal values, creating a mission-driven, compassionate work environment.

Takeaways for Listeners:

· The role of faith in shaping Andrew’s leadership and building a purpose-driven team.

· Lessons from navigating a tech startup focused on physical products during a digital revolution.

· How Andrew’s values and vision helped create a successful, mission-aligned company.

Final Thoughts:

Andrew Laffoon’s journey is a testament to the power of faith in guiding both personal and professional decisions. His story offers valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs on the intersection of faith, leadership, and innovation. Tune in to hear how Andrew has built a company that reflects his values and vision for uplifting others through storytelling.

For more information on Andrew Laffoon and Mixbook: www.mixbook.com

Follow Ten Talents: Stay updated on the latest episodes and insights by following us on your favorite podcast platforms. Don't miss out on inspiring stories and valuable discussions that bridge faith and technology.

Don't forget to subscribe to Ten Talents with Keith Koo for more insightful episodes and leave a review to let us know what you think!

For more information on Ten Talents go to: www.xtalents.com

Host: Keith Koo
Guest: Andrew Laffoon, Founder and CEO of Mixbook
Episode Title: "Printed with Purpose: Andrew Laffoon on Faith, Storytelling, and Mixbook"
Overview: In this episode of Ten Talents, Keith Koo interviews Andrew Laffoon, Founder and CEO of Mixbook, who shares his inspiring journey from a small rural town in North Carolina to leading an award-winning tech company. Raised as the son of a pastor, Andrew’s faith has been central to both his life and his leadership at Mixbook.
Key Discussion Points:
· Faith and Upbringing: Andrew discusses his roots in a pastor's family and how his faith has shaped his values, leadership style, and purpose in business.
· Tech Passion and UC Berkeley: Despite growing up in a rural environment, Andrew nurtured an early passion for technology, which led him to UC Berkeley and ultimately to founding Mixbook.
· Building Mixbook: Andrew shares the challenges and rewards of launching Mixbook, a platform for storytelling through photobooks, at a time when the tech world was moving toward digital-only solutions. His faith guided him through difficult decisions and setbacks.
· Faith in Leadership: Andrew emphasizes how his faith is integral to his leadership at Mixbook, influencing the company culture and team. His focus on servant leadership and integrity reflects his personal values, creating a mission-driven, compassionate work environment.
Takeaways for Listeners:
· The role of faith in shaping Andrew’s leadership and building a purpose-driven team.
· Lessons from navigating a tech startup focused on physical products during a digital revolution.
· How Andrew’s values and vision helped create a successful, mission-aligned company.
Final Thoughts:
Andrew Laffoon’s journey is a testament to the power of faith in guiding both personal and professional decisions. His story offers valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs on the intersection of faith, leadership, and innovation. Tune in to hear how Andrew has built a company that reflects his values and vision for uplifting others through storytelling.
For more information on Andrew Laffoon and Mixbook: www.mixbook.com
Follow Ten Talents: Stay updated on the latest episodes and insights by following us on your favorite podcast platforms. Don't miss out on inspiring stories and valuable discussions that bridge faith and technology.
Don't forget to subscribe to Ten Talents with Keith Koo for more insightful episodes and leave a review to let us know what you think!
For more information on Ten Talents go to: www.xtalents.com

Chasing Identity in a World of High Expectations: Dennis Yap’s CEO of Seer

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