Explore every episode of the podcast Headstart On Record
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| S2E51: High anxiety, spiking cortisol: it's tough making friends as an adult, is it worth the trouble? | 21 Sep 2026 | 00:41:53 | |
Our friend circles shrink as we get older. How do we deal with it? In this episode, therapist Cao Zhikai shares how we can deal with losing friends as we enter adulthood, and what we can do to combat that feeling of loss. She also shares about the grief of friendship breakups, which don’t often get given enough attention in a society that prioritises romantic relationships. Hosts Kai Wen and Sue-Ann discuss why it’s nerve-wrecking making friends as adults, yet having the payoff of a purposeful adult connection is worth it. Highlights (click/tap above): 0:00 Introduction 0:32 Shrinking adult friend circles? 4:35 Why proximity matters 8:39 The grief of losing friends 16:26 Being intentional in keeping friendships alive 24:39 Do friends serve a purpose? 28:10 The fears of making new friends as adults 33:59 Meeting new people in a non-romantic way Follow See Kai Wen on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/qfwqQ Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Hosts: See Kai Wen (seekw@sph.com.sg) and Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producer: Elizabeth Law Follow the Headstart On Record Podcast here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts Watch Headstart On Record Podcast on YouTube: https://str.sg/3psqrx --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E50: Why travelling with friends can lead to meltdowns and broken friendships | 14 Sep 2026 | 00:20:16 | |
Is travelling with friends worth the risk when all hell breaks loose? From disagreements over budget to one person wanting to “travelmax” while another wants to wake up at noon, a trip can become a horror story. In this episode, Kai Wen and Sue-Ann discuss whether you should travel with friends and the red flags that can spell disaster instead of a fun holiday. Highlights (click/tap above): 0:00: Intro 2:10 Compromising on travel choices 4:50 Walking red flags on holiday 8:11 Relaxing vs travelmaxxing 12:00 Breakups on holiday 14:05 Picking travel companions 15:57 Pre-trip disclosures Follow See Kai Wen on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/qfwqQ Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Hosts: See Kai Wen (seekw@sph.com.sg) and Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producer: Elizabeth Law Follow the Headstart On Record Podcast here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts Watch Headstart On Record Podcast on YouTube: https://str.sg/3psqrx --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E49: Singapore stocks have just had their best run in years, are you missing out? | 07 Sep 2026 | 00:34:34 | |
The US market is exciting, but it can also be dangerous for young investors. The US market has been on a tear, but it is also littered with pitfalls for unsuspecting new investors. Should we stock pick or just buy the S&P 500? And what about new IPOs like Space X? In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at how to explore the US market without getting burnt. Her guests are Sheryl Choong, Head of Client Advisory Singapore at Endowus and Afdhal Rahman, OCBC executive director of wealth advisory. Highlights (click/tap above): 3:12 Should I just invest in the S&P 500? 7:13 What percentage of my portfolio should be in the US? 10:30 S&P 500 vs Nasdaq vs Dow Jones 12:00 How to start investing in the US 15:45 Getting into popular new US IPOs 18:30 Lump sum investing vs regular investing 23:20 Dealing with exchange rates Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Hosts: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim and Natasha Liew Executive producer: Elizabeth Law Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts Watch Headstart On Record Podcast on YouTube: https://str.sg/3psqrx --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E48: Pay transparency: what to do after finding out a colleague’s salary is higher than yours | 17 Aug 2026 | 00:30:41 | |
Would you reveal your salary to your colleagues? What to do if you are underpaid? In this episode, ST’s own manpower correspondent Sharon Salim talks about navigating conversations around salary transparency and how being too transparent can affect workplace dynamics. Hosts Kai Wen and Sue-Ann discuss transparency being crucial to benchmarking against peers in the same industry, and whether firms discourage employees from salary transparency to maintain an advantage in salary negotiations. Highlights (click/tap above): 0:00: Intro 3:55 Utilising salary guides & public sector disparity 7:58 The impact on workplace dynamics 11:52 Downsides of transparency 15:34 Job interviews to check “market rate” 19:59 Is sharing your salary against rules 23:29 Negotiating a pay raise 27:42 Track your monthly career milestones Follow See Kai Wen on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/qfwqQ Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Hosts: See Kai Wen (seekw@sph.com.sg) and Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Eden Soh, Fa’izah Sani and Amirul Karim Executive producer: Elizabeth Law Follow the Headstart On Record Podcast here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts Watch Headstart On Record Podcast on YouTube: https://str.sg/3psqrx --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E47: Invest in stocks and ETFs because your friend says so? Why friends and finances don’t always mix | 03 Aug 2026 | 00:34:31 | |
Talking to friends about money can be sensitive, here’s how to navigate it. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a head start in your personal finance, career and life with The Straits Times. Friendships may be priceless, but money talk often crops up among friends - who owes who money, choosing dinner locations, trying to budget for travel together. But how can we talk openly about money without breaking friendships? In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan and See Kai Wen talk about how to navigate this issue. Their guest is Vivienne Ong from MoneyOwl. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:49 How will it affect the friend group if everyone knows each other’s pay? 7:43 People pleasing vs guarding your own finances 10:56 Money talk when travelling with friends 18:00 Can owing money break a friendship 23:29 Taking emotions out of the equation 24:50 Expensive weddings and hongbao 29:26 How to approach the money convo Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Follow See Kai Wen on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/qfwqQ Hosts: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) and See Kai Wen (seekw@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim and Natasha Liew Executive producers: Elizabeth Law Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts Watch Headstart On Record Podcast on YouTube: https://str.sg/3psqrx --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E46: 7 jobs in 14 years: A comms director explains why job hopping isn't always bad | 20 Jul 2026 | 00:37:27 | |
Job hopping: Career suicide or a way to learn what works for you? Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a head start in your personal finance, career and life with The Straits Times. In this episode, Annabel Lim, Business & Reputation Director at communications firm We. Communications shares how she built her career by cycling through 7 full-time jobs. She talks about how each change gave her a different perspective or skill that cumulated in her current role, and why “job-hopping” isn't necessarily a red flag in CVs. Hosts Kai Wen and Sue-Ann, who have worked in two jobs and one job respectively, also discussed how long a person should hold their job before making a switch and how to tell when a role no longer works for you. Highlights (click/tap above): 0:00 Job hopping: Is it a bad thing? 6:56 Is there a minimum time one has to stay at a job? 9:45 Rage quitting 13:28 Is company loyalty worth anything? 20:40 Push factors at work 29:52 The urge to quit: just a phase or deeper problem? 34:31 Advice for those thinking of changing careers Follow See Kai Wen on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/qfwqQ Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Hosts: See Kai Wen (seekw@sph.com.sg) and Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim and Natasha Liew Executive producers: Elizabeth Law Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts Watch Headstart On Record Podcast on YouTube: https://str.sg/3psqrx --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E45: Investing amid volatility: is it all about managing emotions and impulses? | 06 Jul 2026 | 00:31:20 | |
Does buy low, sell high work in today’s volatile market? Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a head start in your personal finance, career and life with The Straits Times. Everybody wants to be a Warren Buffett - to buy when the market dips and sell when it soars again. But is this a good investment strategy for everyone? In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at whether to go all in when the market dips. Her guests are Arpit Agal from Syfe and Chua Inn Chong from PhillipCapital. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:20 Why did the market dip in June? 2:49 To be or not to be Warren Buffett? 4:33 Can you actually time the market? 13:55 ETFs vs stocks 16:00 Are market swings bigger now than before? 18:00 The gurus’ investing strategies 21:25 SpaceX and hype investing Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Elizabeth Law and Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts Watch Headstart On Record Podcast on YouTube: https://str.sg/3psqrx --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E44: ‘Comedy equals truth and pain’: a clown on taking life less seriously | 15 Jun 2026 | 00:44:48 | |
Are Singaporeans too rigid to be funny? How to take ourselves less seriously to overcome stress. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a head start in your personal finance, career and life with The Straits Times. In this episode, theatrical clown and actor Shanice Stanislaus shares with host See Kai Wen about how thinking and acting like a clown can help navigate high-pressure environments. The “Clown Mentality” includes having the audacity to dream and try, never afraid of failing and finding ways to add whimsy into your life. We all have a little clown in our pockets. Shanice also speaks about her journey as one of the only few professional clowns in Singapore, her award-winning clown shows, and how she helps Singaporeans find their “funny” in her workshops. Highlights (click/tap above): 0:00 What is clowning? 02:58 Are Singaporeans too uptight to be funny? 07:11 Why we need to learn how to fail 10:51 Comedy is truth and pain wrapped nicely 15:33 Using humour to break the ice in work situations 21:55 How to find your inner clown and humour 25:47 Adopting a “Clown Mentality” 27:51 Shanice’s experience performing as a clown overseas Follow See Kai Wen on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/qfwqQ Host: See Kai Wen (seekw@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Elizabeth Law and Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E43: Will the AI bubble burst? We break down if tech is still worth investing in | 01 Jun 2026 | 00:37:09 | |
Tech still holds long-term promise but choose companies carefully based on their fundamentals. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a head start in your personal finance, career and life with The Straits Times. Talk of an AI bubble has been brewing for some time, with many asking when it will burst. But young investors still want to get in on the tech wave and buy into a sector that has great growth potential. In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at which tech stocks show promise in a mature AI era. Her guests are DBS Bank head of equity and fixed income Subhra Chatterjee and StashAway head of investment advisory Mark Yeo. Highlights (click/tap above): 3:00 Tech is still an integral investment theme 6:00 What is the AI bubble 12:00 Should you still buy the MAG7 17:00 How to fit tech into your portfolio 21:00 SGX or Nasdaq or some other market entirely 31:00 What is dollar-cost averaging? 34:00 Different ways to diversify your portfolio Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Elizabeth Law and Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E42: Feel like you are not good enough? Here’s what you can do | 18 May 2026 | 00:35:48 | |
Feel like you are not enough? Learn how to become your ideal self by acting as if you already are. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a head start in your personal finance, career and life with The Straits Times. In this episode, Singapore theatre actor and musician Andrew Marko shares with host See Kai Wen about how the “Act As If” theory relates to his self-growth. “Act As If” is a three-part technique that requires people to act as if they are already the ideal version of themselves, even when they are not there yet. The process includes visualisation and taking small, actionable steps towards a goal. Besides opening up about his weight loss journey, Andrew also gets real about his experience as an actor and how he learned to “be in the moment” by playing a character on the autism spectrum. Highlights (click/tap above): 0:00 Introduction to the “Act As If” theory 2:00 Psychology behind being an actor 6:10 Feelings of inadequacy and facing your inner critic 12:35 How to apply the “Act As If” theory to your life 16:11 Defining the most successful version of yourself 19:15 Andrew’s weight loss journey 25:35 Why being present is important 30:30 Embracing uncomfortable growth Follow See Kai Wen on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/qfwqQ Host: See Kai Wen (seekw@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Elizabeth Law and Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E41: Singapore's Les Miserables star Nathania Ong on what it cost to chase her dreams | 03 May 2026 | 00:31:59 | |
Surviving on vibes and hard work? What it's like working as a freelance artist overseas. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a head start in your personal finance, career and life with The Straits Times. How does a Singaporean make her way onto London’s glittering West End? Nathania Ong made her mark by playing well-loved characters like Eponine in Les Miserables and Eliza Hamilton in Hamilton, putting Singapore on the world theatre map. But how did it happen and what does the life of a freelance artist overseas look like? In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at the realities and joys of working in the arts. Her guest is musical theatre actress Nathania Ong. Highlights (click/tap above): 3:12 Being initially rejected from every drama school 6:39 Nathania’s West End debut 10:54 Deciding to be an actress 18:00 Realities of working in London 22:13 Advice to anyone aspiring to be an actor 26:23 What’s next for Nathania Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Joanna Seow and Elizabeth Law Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E40: Sing Song Social Club founder Aarika Lee on the magic of community | 19 Apr 2026 | 00:38:26 | |
Get a peek into the workings of the viral community choir and unpack the importance of finding your tribe. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a head start in your personal finance, career and life with The Straits Times. In this episode, Singaporean musician Aarika Lee tells host See Kai Wen her inspiration and journey in starting the viral community choir Sing Song Social Club. Through the choir’s inclusivity, people from all walks of life and ages - ranging from four to 90 years of age - come to sing together. No auditions are needed to join the sessions, which have grown from 30 to 400 participants in less than two years. Aarika also talks about why having a community is so important and discusses parallels between the science of trees and the psychological need of humans to feel a sense of belonging. Highlights (click/tap above): 0:00 What is the Sing Song Social Club (SSSC)? 5:30 Role of communities and how Aarika keeps SSSC safe 8:40 How the science of trees explains our need for community 15:40 Independence vs interdependence 20:50 Disagreements in SSSC? 23:50 How Aarika started SSSC, and the roles of the other founding members 29:50 Advice for those who want to find or start their own community 36:03 Aarika plays “This or That” Follow See Kai Wen on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/qfwqQ Host: See Kai Wen (seekw@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim & Natasha Liew Executive producers: Danson Cheong and Joanna Seow Editorial producer: Elizabeth Law Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E39: Should I buy silver? | 05 Apr 2026 | 00:25:02 | |
Is silver a safe haven for investors like gold and will its price rise due to war? Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a head start in your personal finance, career and life with The Straits Times. Silver has had some exciting days, especially when the price of silver skyrocketed in 2025. However, there has been a pullback in early 2026. So how does silver compare to gold and is it worth investing in for the long run? In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at silver as a long-term investment and if it works for you. Her guests are CMC Markets expert Daphne Tan and ST business reporter Timothy Goh. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:36 Is silver a safe haven like gold? 4:00 Will the Iran war drive silver prices up? 7:39 Tim’s experience of buying silver 10:30 Tech trends that could boost silver 12:00 Physical silver vs paper silver 19:24 How does silver compare to stocks as an investment? Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S1E38: Quah Ting Wen on her infinite mindset and when she’ll stop competing | 15 Mar 2026 | 00:42:10 | |
Veteran national swimmer Quah Ting Wen discusses finding her own joy in swimming. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a head start in your personal finance, career and life with The Straits Times. In this episode, ST video journalist See Kai Wen hosts national swimmer Quah Ting Wen, who tells him how American figure skating Olympic champion Alysa Liu’s infinite mindset inspires her as an athlete. The infinite mindset belongs to people who emphasise enjoying the game, rather than having their focus on winning it. With 65 medals under her swim cap, Ting Wen is the most bemedalled athlete in the SEA Games. She also speaks about the bittersweet feeling of racing with her sister and how she navigates that complicated relationship. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:50 How Ting Wen started her swim journey 4:19 Reflecting on being SEA Games’ most bemedalled athlete 10:33 Alysa Liu’s success in the Winter Olympics 14:17 What are finite games and infinite games? 19:47 Financial realities of being an athlete in Singapore 27:56 When will Ting Wen stop competing? 32:31 What Ting Wen would have done if she weren’t a swimmer? 36:14 How can everyday people adopt the infinite mindset? Follow See Kai Wen on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/qfwqQ Host: See Kai Wen (seekw@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Eden Soh Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E37: Are you overinsured? Here's how to review your policies | 01 Mar 2026 | 00:32:14 | |
How much coverage is too much? Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a head start in your personal finance, career and life with The Straits Times. The question people always have when buying insurance is: how much? And not just how much it costs, but how much is enough? How can you tell if you have too much insurance? In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at what being overinsured means and how to review your policies. Her guest is Life Insurance Association’s executive director Chan Wai Kit. Highlights (click/tap above): 3:36 What are riders and do I need them? 6:14 Why are riders so expensive? 8:10 Do I need my own policies if I already have corporate insurance? 12:00 Why do premiums increase with age? 14:48 How to tell if I’m spending too much on insurance? 20:09 What happens when I cannot pay for my premiums? Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E36: Top 3 things in Budget 2026 for young people | 22 Feb 2026 | 00:30:15 | |
This year's Budget spotlights more ways to invest your CPF and how to deal with AI. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a head start in your personal finance, career and life with The Straits Times. Another year and another Budget speech, with goodies given out by PM Lawrence Wong. But is the Budget just about CDC vouchers and subsidies? What exactly is in it for young people? In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at what matters for young people in Singapore's Budget 2026. Her guests are DBS financial literacy expert Shawn Lee and OCBC executive director of wealth advisory Afdhal Rahman. Highlights (click/tap above): 2:00 How does the new investment scheme by CPF work? 4:58 What to consider before investing your CPF 11:00 SGX vs Nasdaq 14:30 AI as a central theme of the Budget 21:36 Are handouts of $200 to $400 enough for cost of living issues? 25:40 What do you want to see next in Budget 2027? Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E35: Investing in stocks or stuff? | 01 Feb 2026 | 00:29:06 | |
Is it better to buy stocks or invest in tangible things? Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a head start in your personal finance, career and life with The Straits Times. Logan Paul’s Pokemon card has gone for over US$1 million. But do physical items and collections really help your money to grow? How do Pokemon cards, Labubus and Marvel figurines measure alongside traditional stocks as investments? In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at the stocks versus the 'stuff'. Her guests are avid collector Ian Cheng and eToro market analyst Zavier Wong. Highlights (click/tap above): 4:26 How do stocks compare with items? 8:12 Rare cards that appreciate from $100 to $600 9:00 Why did Pokemon card prices rise? 11:26 Logan Paul’s US$5 million Pokemon card 17:00 Collections that depreciated in value instead 22:08 What should I do if I want to become an investor in cards? Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E33: How to invest in 2026 | 30 Jan 2026 | 00:36:50 | |
Tech stocks still shine, but beware the bubble. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. 2025 has been a turbulent year, and 2026 will also be marked by uncertainty. So amid such global turmoil, what should we invest in? In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at how to grow your money in 2026. Her guests are Gen Z investor Kass Phai, who is also a family wealth consultant at Unicorn, and veteran market watcher Ven Sreenivasan. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:26 Where are the markets going in 2026? 7:00 Should we still buy tech stocks? 10:37 Risk vs volatility 16:00 Other sectors to invest in 22:00 Should we invest in the SGX? 29:00 Other investment assets to hold Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E34: Being kinder to yourself during job changes | 18 Jan 2026 | 00:20:51 | |
Learn how to better reconcile the mixed feelings that come with work transitions. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. It seems like one of life’s cruel ironies. Do well, and go far together in a bonded team, and yet further progression may require you to move on elsewhere. If this is a familiar scenario to you, fear not. ST correspondent Tay Hong Yi hosts Mr Aneel Singh Gill, a psychologist with Talk Your Heart Out, an online and face-to-face therapy platform. He helps clients navigate work-related issues. Hong Yi, who has been with The Straits Times since 2021, is also hosting in his final podcast as he transitions to a new role elsewhere - and what better topic to talk about than this? Highlights (click/tap above): 2:07 Why might someone feel a sense of loss despite exciting times ahead? 4:13 How to identify and reconcile mixed feelings towards impending change 11:59 Looking past “Stockholm syndrome” after leaving a toxic workplace 15:22 What makes the transition from school to first job especially hard Read an askST Jobs column on leaving well-loved colleagues: https://str.sg/qGTR Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy Host: Tay Hong Yi Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E31: Should you buy gold now? | 31 Dec 2025 | 00:26:33 | |
Gold prices have soared in 2025 but here are things to consider before buying your first gold bar. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. Gold has never looked shinier, especially as a safe haven in a volatile world. It reached highs when things were the most volatile, with Trump’s tariffs and then the federal government shutdown. But should you buy gold, how do you go about it and what are the considerations to be taken first? In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at how to make good use of the current gold rally. Her guests are OCBC Managing Director of Investment Strategy Vasu Menon and ST business journalist Timothy Goh. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:34 Why have gold prices been soaring? 6:50 What does gold as a “safe haven” mean? 10:02 Is this the right time to buy gold? 16:00 When do gold prices come down? 19:56 Physical gold versus paper gold 24:13 Tips for first-time gold investors Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E32: How a young entrepreneur’s own business helped her discover new career | 14 Dec 2025 | 00:20:35 | |
She shares why and how she is moving on from a student business she co-founded. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. Imagine starting a business after finishing your A-level exams, and then growing that business from strength to strength with two outlets in the heart of town within five years alongside your undergraduate studies. Now imagine making the tough decision to take all that one has learned into a new adventure: the first job, one that was never on the radar previously. That is the journey of a young entrepreneur who speaks to ST correspondent Tay Hong Yi on the latest episode of Headstart On Record. The guest was: Ms Desiree Chang, co-founder of Woofie, a thrift and vintage apparel business with an online store and two outlets in Bugis. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:22 How did the business start? 3:03 How was it like to balance studies with a business? 6:52 Finding a sustainable middle-ground in entrepreneurship 11:42 How did the skills learned translate into her job search? 15:52 Tips for aspiring student entrepreneurs Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E30: Budgeting for three holidays in 2026 | 16 Nov 2025 | 00:30:27 | |
More holidays a year sounds great but ensure they stay within budget by using these hacks. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. Instead of saving for a home, young people are now saving for travel and leisure. Over half of young workers said saving for trips is among their top financial goals, a survey showed. So travel is clearly a top of mind issue for Singaporeans. But how do we budget for three trips a year? In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at how to achieve your vacation dreams. Her guests are Revolut’s Head of Strategy and Operations Ashley Thomas and ST travel journalist Sarah Stanley. Highlights (click/tap above): 2:23 How early do you plan for 2026’s trips? 4:00 Are more people doing three holidays a year? 8:00 How to set budgets for a trip 16:22 Using AI to plan holidays 18:00 Where are the upcoming popular spots? 21:00 Travel deals and ways to save money Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E29: Will AI steal your lunch? What Singapore workers need to know | 02 Nov 2025 | 00:35:12 | |
Find out how to choose the right employers, training and career paths to ride the wave. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. We are in the thick of it. Artificial intelligence (AI) has already taken root in our personal and professional lives, and is set to reshape society even more. How best to set ourselves up for success for the years to come? What is the support at hand to help us make better career choices? In this episode, host and ST correspondent Tay Hong Yi chats with Mr Dinesh Vasu Dash, Minister of State for Manpower, as well as for Culture, Community and Youth. MOS Dinesh shares more about who the hotly-scrutinised and recently launched Graduate Industry Traineeships (Grit) are meant for, and why it has taken the form it has. Joining the discussion is Ms Elsie Ng, director for talent solutions in Singapore for professional networking platform LinkedIn. She shares how both employers and workers are reinventing themselves for AI. This is a jam-packed episode that cannot be missed. Highlights (click/tap above): 5:43 What prevents people from taking the first step in upskilling? 9:17 How have skill requirements changed in recent times? 13:40 Huge demand in 'people' skills; why career research is important 17:36 What happens to those who find their efforts aren’t enough to keep up? 24:47 Grit is meant for those who can’t directly enter growth sectors 31:10 Nurturing ready trainees for when the role is eventually created Take the Career Health quiz: https://careerhealth.sg/quiz/ Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E28: How platform work can support young talent | 19 Oct 2025 | 00:23:13 | |
Platform work can expand employment options and opportunities, but only with careful regulation. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. Digital platform work has become a fixture of Singapore society, with a contingent of almost 70,000 plying their trade, mostly in ride-hailing or food delivery. In a special episode of Headstart On Record, co-host Tay Hong Yi moderates a fireside chat with four panellists across the platform work ecosystem at the Global Dialogue on Digital Platform Work on Sept 29. Hear their views on the challenges that come with this new format of work, the prospects that come with expanding it to a wider range of jobs, and what needs to be done to make it meaningful for young talent. The panellists were: Ms Yeo Wan Ling, assistant secretary-general at the National Trades Union Congress Mr Hao Shuo, chief executive officer, Singapore National Employers Federation Mr Lim Yew Heng, group managing director for public affairs, transformation and post-merger integration at Grab Mr Elvin Tan, Asia-Pacific head of operations at human resources services firm Persol Highlights (click/tap above): 4:01 How NTUC develops support for platform workers despite limited data 8:38 Is it a good idea to expand platform work to other jobs? 9:56 Should we be worried about platform work eroding Singapore’s skill base? 12:04 Are employers ready to recognise platform work as work experience? 18:26 The toughest balancing acts Grab makes Read what went down during the dialogue: https://str.sg/gTPf Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E27: Should you invest your CPF? | 05 Oct 2025 | 00:25:20 | |
Investing your CPF might be exciting, but ensure you have enough too for housing and retirement. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. Retirement seems like ages away for a young person, and the CPF that accumulates can feel like money just sitting in a fund. But what can we use CPF for? And should we all invest our CPF? In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at how to use your CPF, whether for investment or housing needs. Her guests are Angeline Teo from CPF Board and Gen Z undergrad Quang Long. Highlights (click/tap above): 2:58 What are the different CPF accounts? 9:54 How do CPF savings grow? 11:50 Using CPF for housing 14:55 What CPF cannot be used for 16:28 How to invest your CPF 20:05 Other considerations when investing your CPF Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E26: How to tell if your employer's leave practices are progressive | 14 Sep 2025 | 00:30:21 | |
Find out how to discern the hallmarks of employers who do well. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. Host and ST correspondent Tay Hong Yi chats with Mr Richard Cooper, business leader for benefits for Mercer Marsh Benefits in Singapore. Mr Cooper advises organisations on how to design healthcare benefits, insurance, flexi-benefits and related processes. The ability to take leave from work for medical and personal reasons is a cornerstone of modern work. However, it might not always be clear what a good benefits policy looks like, and when an employer is actually stingy or overbearing with what they require staff to do. Do you have such experiences? Highlights (click/tap above): 3:00 How job requirements shape benefits policies 4:51 What are best practices employers adopt? 9:58 What does overreach look like? 13:42 Are employees obliged to plan their leave periods around work? 16:47 Should we expect enough employers to keep reserve capacity? 23:22 Why can Nordic countries afford extensive leave? Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E25: Good investing: Don't time the market, play the long game | 31 Aug 2025 | 00:34:49 | |
Investing should not be about timing the market, but growing money over the long term. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. Day trading is exciting - all the watching of stock movements and trying to buy low, sell high. But experts often say, hold for the long term, and use the benefit of compounding. What does that mean? How long exactly is the long haul and what does holding for the long term mean? In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at investing for the long-term future, rather than the here and now. Her guests are Gidon Jerome Kessel, group head for Deposit and Wealth Management at UOB and Leong Ji Keet, a financial blogger at SG Money Guide. Highlights (click/tap above): 3:00: What does investing for the long term mean? 6:23 Which assets should I buy for long-term investing? 8:00 How long is a long-term investment? 14:45 Long-term strategies vs day trading 15:49 Are high-yield bank accounts investments? 19:00 Investing for retirement Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E24: Hospitality jobs: A place for ex-kindergarten teachers or illustrators? | 17 Aug 2025 | 00:27:09 | |
Why this sector also has back-of-house roles that call for talents from all walks of life. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. Find out why job seekers should not just think of front-facing guest roles in this sector, as host and ST correspondent Tay Hong Yi chats with Ms Adeline Phua, managing lyf partner and vice-president for business development at Ascott, the lodging business of CapitaLand Investment. You may have come across lyf (pronounced life) properties, that are creatively designed. It is known for its appeal to young travellers and inventive activities for guests. Ms Phua argues why hospitality is something Singaporeans should look deeper into, beyond just traditional or stereotypical job roles associated with the sector. Do you have to be an extrovert to work in hospitality? No. Not everyone has to be interacting with guests on the frontline, with a surfeit of meaningful roles behind the scenes in areas including facilities management, designing and sustainability. Highlights (click/tap above): 3:23 Kombucha-brewing classes, world record attempts and other memorable guest activities 6:10 Hospitality roles in SG: Is there room to improvise? 13:23 The range of roles and skills needed at a company like lyf 16:54 Wanted: Ex-kindergarten teachers, ex-zoo professionals, illustrators, content creators? 20:49 How’s the sector holding up in this current economy? Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim & Natasha Liew Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E23: Side hustles: How to get into it now and responsibly | 03 Aug 2025 | 00:30:13 | |
Working a full-time job but having a side-hustle is gaining traction among young people or students. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. Side hustles are becoming more common, with people opening weekend cafes, selling coffee or doing other jobs besides their full-time work. But are side hustles for everyone? Will it become necessary as people try to get extra income and find fulfilment outside their day jobs? And what do you need to look out for before starting a side hustle? In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at the art of the side hustle and how to start one. Her guests are Tris Su, owner of weekend matcha business Tofu Tofu, and Juliet Tan, founder of human resources consultancy firm Emplifi. Highlights (click/tap above): 3:14: How does a home-based matcha maker run her side hustle? 4:17 What counts as a side hustle? 5:55 Juggling the side hustle with her full-time job 7:53 What to do before starting a side hustle 14:15 The trend of side hustling and why start one? 24:00 Can I start a side hustle now? Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E22: Fending off procrastination: How to get started | 20 Jul 2025 | 00:27:53 | |
We put off work because work, for some reason, puts us off. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. Procrastination: The frustratingly human tendency to postpone work we can and should get started on earlier. It may seem tempting to berate ourselves for being lazy, unmotivated or disorganised. Instead, procrastination is actually our brains trying to shield us from uncomfortable feelings, putting a hidden toll on ourselves. In this episode, host and ST correspondent Tay Hong Yi hosts an expert on the psychology of people who work together in groups. She shares with us what research tells us about procrastination and other quirks of our mind that permeate our work and daily life. She also goes into the “dark things” she relishes researching, such as why people are cynical at work, and the fallout from narcissist leaders. The guest is: Dr Ruchi Sinha, organisational psychologist and associate professor (practice) at Nanyang Business School, Nanyang Technological University Highlights (click/tap above): 2:00 What is procrastination and what type of procrastinator are you? 11:06 What are some strategies to help you manage procrastination? 14:07 Procrastination is about misplaced priorities too 16:22 Is it any easier for Dr Sinha to beat procrastination, as an expert? 17:05 The “pretty dark stuff” Dr Sinha studies, such as narcissism at workplaces 23:04 How does Dr Sinha translate research in her field to real life? Read more about procrastination here: https://str.sg/C9QS Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- 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 --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E21: What kind of insurance should young adults buy? | 06 Jul 2025 | 00:29:03 | |
Hospitalisation and critical illness insurance are vital, but beware of being upsold or paying too much for premiums. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. What do young people need to know when buying their first insurance package? Insurance is an essential part of “adulting”, but it can be daunting when choosing from a wide range of products on a tight budget. Some can also find that insurance agents pressure them into buying products that they are not certain they need. In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at what you need to know before buying insurance. Her guests are NTU undergraduate Megan Wee and DBS bank Singapore head of bancassurance Loh Wanyun. 1:40: What are the different types of insurance? 9:00 Corporate vs personal insurance 11:00 How much should I spend on insurance? 13:25 How to deal with pushy agents 15:50 How much insurance is enough to cover me? 18:05 What are investment-linked policies? 21:00 Where should I buy insurance from? Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- 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 --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S1E1: Explore The Straits Times’ podcasts | 19 Jun 2025 | 00:03:29 | |
Listen to our news commentary podcasts on the go every week. Podcasts have become part of the global media landscape these days. The audio-on-demand format allows many listeners to often do other chores or hobbies, while hearing the shows in the background over headphones or bluetooth speakers Almost every weekday, check out our discussions on Singapore current affairs and social issues, geopolitics through an Asian lens, health, climate change, personal finance and career. Follow our shows on your favourite audio apps Apple Podcasts, Spotify or even ST’s app, which has a dedicated podcast player section. Trailer narrated by: Podcast editor Ernest Luis (ernest@sph.com.sg); edited by: Elsa Goh --- Discover more ST podcast channels: 'All-in-one' ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 The Usual Place: https://str.sg/wEr7u Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7 Headstart On Record: https://str.sg/wB2m Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt Wheel Insights: https://str.sg/iTtE ST Podcasts website: https://www.straitstimes.com/st-podcasts (*New) The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg Special edition series: Green Trails (4 eps): https://str.sg/bMyx This series clinched the gold award for Best Podcast at the Digital Media Awards Asia 2025 on April 23, organised by the World Association of News Publishers (Wan-Ifra). True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T This series clinched the gold award for Best Podcast at the Digital Media Awards Asia 2024 in April, and third place for Best Podcast at the Digital Media Awards Worldwide 2024, both organised by Wan-Ifra. The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2 This series also won The Best Podcast/Digital Audio Project category at the 2022 Digital Media Awards Asia, organised by Wan-Ifra. Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX --- 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 #stpodcasttr See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E20: Forging careers at all ages, for all seasons | 15 Jun 2025 | 00:28:33 | |
Find out how developing crucial career skills can help you triumph over times of turmoil. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. Developing a vibrant, resilient career in this age will require consistent effort to make deeper and more frequent changes. Mastering what we do in the here and now, does not suffice. Instead, we need to cast an eye towards what our jobs may become and even consider entirely new ones. In the third ST Podcast Live session recorded on June 3 at swish nightspot Rasa at Republic Plaza, we touch on what it takes to thrive at each stage of our careers, against a backdrop of economic upheaval. This special episode of Headstart On Record is in partnership with Workforce Singapore, in support of Career Health, a SkillsFuture initiative. We speak to a young engineer - Mr Noel Png - who did not let poor school grades deter him from an engineering career that took him to Britain and back home, where he also contributed to putting a satellite in space. He is now a telecommunications system engineer at ST Engineering. Oh, he's also met Elon Musk. He shares about his unorthodox approach to networking, how he found mentors who helped him find his direction in life and his thought process to take uncertainty in his stride. Joining him with host and ST correspondent Tay Hong Yi is veteran senior career coach Parameswari Seenivasan. A trained counsellor with over 15 years’ of experience from Workforce Singapore, she has helped over 2,000 clients in her work. She helps us draw principles and good practices from Mr Png's career experiences. The ongoing series of ST Podcast Live sessions are being held to celebrate 180 years of The Straits Times in 2025, with three more events planned for the rest of the year. Highlights (click/tap above): 3:13 How a chance encounter led Noel to work in the space industry 5:41 Taking stock of your strengths and values 10:37 How career coaching can help you gain clarity on next moves 16:43 The broader range of options you can explore 18:58 Making sure each transition builds on the next 24:38 Parames’ and Noel’s proudest moments in their careers Find out more from WSG about Career Health SG: https://str.sg/H8Ko More about WSG: https://www.wsg.gov.sg/ Read how the live podcast went down: https://str.sg/uJ4C Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- 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 --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E19: How to prepare to inherit a family business | 01 Jun 2025 | 00:28:50 | |
Gaining exposure, cultural conflictions and intergenerational discussions are all part of the road to inheriting a family business. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. Family businesses have been in the spotlight, after the CDL saga that saw father and son in a tussle for control over one of Singapore’s largest companies. But whether it is about inheriting family businesses or family wealth, the process is not a straightforward one. Banks and financial organisations prepare young people to take over family wealth, through programmes and even boot camps. So how does wealth planning work, and how do youths take over their family businesses? In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at what wealthy kids do to prepare to inherit wealth and companies. Her guests are Darren Hui, who will one day lead his family’s property management business, and former national athlete Kendrick Lee who co-founded Raffles Family Office. Highlights (click/tap above): 5:35 What is family legacy planning and governance? 7:30 The challenges the next generation faces 9:00 Generational differences between father and son 10:49 What difficulties has the family office seen in dealing with multiple generations? 18:02 When did you first realise you were going to inherit the business? 21:00 Will Kendrick let his children take over the business? 22:36 Going from national athlete to family office Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- Follow more podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- 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 --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E18: Can you earn a living on a skilled trade? | 18 May 2025 | 00:27:28 | |
An entrepreneur shares his hard-earned lessons on working with one’s hands. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. For much of human history, manual work and the skilled trades have been the default way to earn your keep. Even in a small, advanced economy such as Singapore, there remains a need for this work to be done, that requires a mix of hard graft and mindfulness. To piece together how to be successful in the trades, ST correspondent Tay Hong Yi speaks with his guest, an entrepreneur who slogged to build businesses across landscaping, hospitality and outdoor education. His guest is: Mr Clarence Chua, co-founder of The Sundowner Nature Experience Centre Highlights (click/tap above): 1:53 Did Clarence always know he would be working a skilled trade? 10:07 What is the most satisfying part of Clarence’s job? 11:18 Tips for those hoping to pursue a skilled trade 21:06 Dealing with parental disapproval Read about Mr Chua’s work here: https://str.sg/iiCi Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- Follow more podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- 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 --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E17: In your 20s? Why it’s never too early to prepare for retirement | 04 May 2025 | 00:34:10 | |
Three students in their early 20s tell us how they're approaching this. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. Retirement used to be a word for middle-aged workers, perhaps as they started to think of how to lay up enough savings to enjoy their twilight years. But with movements like Fire - also known as financial independence, retire early - younger workers are starting to talk about retirement and prepare for the time they can kick their feet back and stop working. And for university students in their early 20s, preparing for retirement is already underway, to hit their goals of retiring early and to fund their ideal retirement lifestyles. So how early should you think of retirement and how can you plan for it? In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at retirement planning even when you're in your 20s and if Fire can really work. Her guests are three NTU students in their early 20s - Tina Aw, Charmaine Chia and Aurene Graciella. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:51 How old were you when you first thought about retirement? 5:33 Hustling from the age of 12 to achieve Fire 8:20 The mental and social costs of Fire 9:15 What is your ideal retirement age? 11:58 How are you preparing for retirement? 24:56 How much will you need per month in retirement? 27:44 Will you consider micro-retirement? Listen to "Should we play with FIRE?": https://str.sg/5mHc Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- Follow more podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 ST Podcasts website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- 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 --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E16: Will working in the office 5 days a week return? | 20 Apr 2025 | 00:27:22 | |
Recent high-profile office return mandates belie a broader availability of flexi-work options from more firms. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. Those of us who are humming along at a comfortable rhythm with hybrid work might have watched with worry recent developments of major firms insisting on five days in office a week by default. After all, it seemed like an equilibrium was reached in the years following the Covid-19 pandemic of working remotely for at least part of the week. Moreover, this comes after Singapore has issued landmark guidelines that make putting in place a process to fairly evaluate flexi-work arrangement requests compulsory. To piece together what to make of this mixed outlook, ST correspondent Tay Hong Yi speaks with his guest, a two-decade corporate veteran who now works with industry players to put in place progressive workplace practices. His guest is: Mr Aslam Sardar, chief executive of the Institute for Human Resource Professionals Highlights (click/tap above): 2:20 What is driving some employers to get workers back in the office so often? 5:11 Flexi-work arrangements are still more prevalent than before 7:57 Is there a chance of a “domino effect” of firms issuing office return mandates, one after the other? 15:31 How are employers here weighing up their options for office returns? 21:07 What to do if your employer asks you to return to the office more often Read about recent moves to make flexi-work more pervasive here: https://str.sg/tgoM Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- Follow more podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- 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 --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E15: Should I do a master’s? | 06 Apr 2025 | 00:29:53 | |
A master's can help you get ahead in your career, but consider the expenses involved carefully too. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. It’s a question that comes up in our 20s and 30s - if we need additional educational qualifications to give us a leg up in our careers. But how do you decide whether to pursue a master’s degree? How do you go about choosing courses, and most crucially, how do you finance such an endeavour? In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at whether you should do a master’s and what to consider before plunging into it. Her guests are Charmaine Yee who studied an MSc in wealth management and now works in private equity, and expert Kenneth Tan from OCBC who is Managing Director of consumer unsecured lending. Highlights (click/tap above): 3:46 How her master’s got her into private equity 5:06 Do you need an MBA to work in finance? 10:11 How much does a master’s cost? 13:54 How do I fund a master’s? 18:36 Planning now to do a master’s five years later 20:54 Transitioning from work to school again 25:22 How about working and studying part time? Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- Follow more podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- 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 --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E14: To enter the workforce with a diploma or not? | 16 Mar 2025 | 00:21:02 | |
Major shifts in the job market and employer practices make for more options but tougher decisions too. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. Singapore’s tertiary education system has been shaken up in recent years, with polytechnics and universities among those seeing major changes. These include apprenticeships, structured talent programmes, industry attachments, longer-duration internships and even global exposure opportunities that raise the skills bar and prepare students for skilled roles from the outset. On one hand, some employers, especially in technical fields, seek for diploma graduates who enter the workforce earlier than others in their cohort and gain skills on the job. On the other, there is a push to grow the proportion of the cohort enrolled in university for further studies. ST correspondent Tay Hong Yi speaks with his guest, a seasoned education expert on how to make sense of these different forces in charting out your own education and career path. His guest is: Associate Professor Jason Tan, who studies education policy, curriculum and leadership at the National Institute of Education Highlights (click/tap above): 2:10 Where are these shifts in the tertiary education system stemming from? 5:49 Does this mean there are more pathways to meet industry needs from an earlier age? 10:35 What are the challenges that come with these changes? 16:34 Pay structures that look strictly at paper qualifications may not reflect differences in skills 18:08 Keeping an open mind on the best choice Read about one such recent change: https://str.sg/ioJA Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- Follow more podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- 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 --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E13: What’s in the budget for me? | 02 Mar 2025 | 00:31:29 | |
CDC vouchers are welcome, but young people also want more housing, jobs and childcare help. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. Budget 2025 has come and gone - the time we Singaporeans look for some free money and vouchers. This year, a big theme was around helping to alleviate the cost of living especially with inflation in the last few years. But exactly how much did the Budget have for us young people in our 20s and 30s, and what are the remaining problems that are untackled? In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at what the Budget gave and what young people might want from it in the future. Her guests are young financial literacy expert from DBS Shawn Lee, and investment strategy managing director Vasu Menon from OCBC. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:39 What were the top three Budget goodies for us? 6:15 Help for young parents and families 8:58 Feeling the cost of living pinch 12:21 No housing measures this Budget? 18:31 Help for young people looking for jobs? 25:10 What would you tell PM Wong given the chance? 27:44 Giving your Budget 2026 wishlist Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- Follow more podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- 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 --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E12: Hitting the ground running for the first job | 16 Feb 2025 | 00:19:04 | |
An expert shows how fresh entrants to the workforce can gain the prior experience employers increasingly seek. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. It seems paradoxical for prospective employers to seek prior experience even for entry-level roles. This reflects the rising bar expected of fresh entrants to the job market. However, employers are becoming more open-minded towards what constitutes relevant prior experience. ST correspondent Tay Hong Yi speaks with his guest, a seasoned career expert who has worked with tertiary students from different backgrounds, on the help at hand. His guest is: Ms Sarah Neo, head of the career development office at the Singapore University of Social Sciences. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:55 Why are employers increasingly seeking prior experience even for entry-level roles? 4:13 The forms such experience can take, from internships to hackathons 9:05 Is it realistic to expect ever more prior experience from students before graduation? 11:58 How can students who lack experience still land that first job? 14:15 What does Sarah recommend those who remain undecided about their future careers do? Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- Follow more podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- 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 --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E11: How to pick good stocks in 2025 | 02 Feb 2025 | 00:36:10 | |
Do your homework and hold for the long term - these are among expert tips for stock picking. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. There are so many different methods to invest these days - from buying roboportfolios, to exchange traded funds or index funds benchmarked to certain indices. But there are also investors who wish to pick their own stocks because they are convinced of their increasing value. This particularly occurs when it comes to tech stocks that might be rapidly rising, or when certain industries show strong potential for growth. But how does someone go about stock picking and what are the risks involved? In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at how people can choose solid stocks in the volatile environment of 2025. Her guests are young investor Troy Cheng and ex-ST journalist and veteran market watcher Ven Sreenivasan. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:42 What is stock picking and how to go about it? 6:00 How to decide if stocks are overvalued or undervalued? 8:10 Where do you get your stock picking recommendations from? 11:41 Which industries are promising in 2025? 15:47 What to know before jumping into overseas stock markets? 20:14 Looking at the Chinese stock market 25:09 Opportunities in the Singapore market Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg --- Follow more podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- 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 --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E10: Neurodivergence: Not merely a “superpower” | 19 Jan 2025 | 00:30:24 | |
Conditions such as ADHD, autism and dyslexia, as well as the ways one lives with these conditions, can provide fresh ways of thinking. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. Neurodivergence: A big word, but one imbued with the simple promise of progress. It means to recognise that brains may be wired differently between different people, causing perceptible differences in information processing and social relations, impacting both work and personal life. ST correspondent Tay Hong Yi, who was himself diagnosed with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) aged 27, talks about the emerging consciousness of neurodivergence and the importance of supporting the neurodivergent to fulfil their potential with his guests. His guests are: Mr Rumi Mohd, associate director for sales and marketing hiring at Randstad Singapore, who was diagnosed with dyslexia as a child Mr Himanshu Chaudhari, a finance professional diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood and board member of awareness group Unlocking ADHD Highlights (click/tap above): 02:30 How did the guests find out about their condition? 05:31 How did their conditions affect them at work? 10:34 What can employers do to meaningfully support neurodivergent team members? 14:33 Is it a good idea to disclose one’s neurodivergence to employers? 20:33 Has anyone ever dismissed the guests’ neurodivergence? 25:17 Is neurodivergence a “superpower”? Read more about neurodivergence in the workplace: https://str.sg/CZz6 Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- Follow more podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- 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 --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E9: How to start a start-up in your 20s | 05 Jan 2025 | 00:37:18 | |
A young start-up founder talks about quitting his job to take the path less trodden, and discuss with DBS the ingredients for success. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. Gen Zs are embracing the entrepreneurial life. Instead of working for someone, they want to start their own companies, sometimes fresh out of school. There are also more entrepreneurial programmes for them even in secondary schools. Online platforms also let them start businesses online and have a wider audience for their products and services. But what exactly is involved in starting a start-up? Is it something only for the rich kids or is it within reach of everyone? In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at how people can start their own business even in their 20s, and what’s involved in the process. Her guests are Accredify founder Quah Zheng Wei, who started his business aged 27, and DBS Head of Corporate and SME Banking Koh Kar Siong. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:52 The steps to starting a start-up 5:33 Quitting his banking job to venture out on his own 8:39 Entrepreneurs as young as 12 14:40 How to get funding 21:16 What defines a successful start-up and what’s the survival rate? 24:28 What are your ingredients for success? 28:05 Will starting my own business make me rich? Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- Follow more podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- 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 --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E8: What is it like being a young boss? | 15 Dec 2024 | 00:25:22 | |
Good leadership that inspires confidence cuts across age. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. It isn’t possible to draw lines along age, tenure, skill and leadership in the working world as neatly as previously. The image of top leaders has expanded beyond the notion of someone assuming their position after a long-drawn process. This is a convention upended, perhaps most prominently, by the heady proliferation of influential start-ups with precociously young leaders at the helm, one of whom journalist Tay Hong Yi spoke to in the latest episode of Headstart On Record His guest is: Mr Looi Qin En, partner at venture capital firm Saison Capital, who co-founded careers discovery platform Glints. Highlights (click/tap above): 2:00 How did Glints’ co-founders start a business that young? 3:20 How did Qin En grow both his technical skills and soft skills so quickly? 6:30 How to convince people to look past your age as a young leader? 14:53 How to inspire confidence among those you lead? 16:59 Has Qin En ever felt he has peaked early in his career? 20:32 Where young leaders have the most room to learn Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- Follow more podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- 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 --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S1E7: How do we spend less but still travel well? | 01 Dec 2024 | 00:40:37 | |
Two avid travellers reveal their top hacks, where to sit on the plane and how to cut the budget while having fun. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. Singaporeans love to travel. In a survey, people said one overseas trip a year is essential. But how do we travel well while still maintaining our budgets? Would you travel to Europe but eat cup noodles to save money? In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at the top travel hacks from experts, how people achieve “budget comfort” and upgrade the travel experience without splurging thousands of dollars. Her guests are Youtrip chief operating officer Kelvin Lam, who once left his investment banking job to be a full-time backpacker, and youthful “budget comfort” traveller Prisca Ang. Highlights (click/tap above): 2:00 How Prisca spent $3,500 for seven cities in 10 days in Japan 8:33 Should I take a direct flight or layover; top travel hacks; benefits of (being near) youth hostels 13:59 Flight hacks: what to pack, where to sit, sales 18:00 How much is too much to spend on travel? 23:45 Prioritising experiences, rather than just seeing famous sights 33:00 Must you take at least one overseas holiday a year? Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- Follow more podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- 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 --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E6: How does working abroad help your career? | 17 Nov 2024 | 00:41:03 | |
The move may be difficult, but can be rewarding for both personal and professional development. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. Talents with overseas exposure are coveted for their ability to help companies realise their global aspirations. There is also robust appetite among Singapore talents to work abroad. However, employers frequently find it challenging to convince talents here to take up overseas opportunities. Journalist Tay Hong Yi speaks to those who have navigated and are helping others to navigate this complex undertaking to work abroad to shed light on the dilemma. His guests are: Dr Nadir Zafar, chief experience officer at the Human Capital Leadership Institute and director of the Singapore Leaders Network Ms Cheryl Lin, a business analyst based in Copenhagen who moved there for further studies Highlights (click/tap above): 2:39 What are the pathways to working abroad? 5:23 What are some of the trade-offs to consider? 7:52 Why do employers find it especially challenging to convince talents to move elsewhere? 16:58 What can you do to increase the chances of an offer? 24:57 What support is needed to increase the number of locals who work abroad to develop professionally? Read the feature by Kai Xiang discussed on the podcast: https://str.sg/dPro Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- Follow more podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- 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 #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E5: Sustainable finance: Where are the investing and job opportunities? | 03 Nov 2024 | 00:29:53 | |
DBS’ sustainability chief reveals ways to get into sustainability and why sustainable finance matters. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. The warmer the weather, the more we feel the impact of human activities on climate change. But how do we make a difference? Should we find jobs that work on sustainability, particularly on the environment front? Or invest in more meaningful asset classes in the sustainability field? In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan examines why sustainability matters, how to get a job in the ESG field, and what we can do in our daily lives and with our investing to contribute to a more sustainable world. Her guest, Helge Muenkel, also describes how his career started with a Masters in development economics, and the twists and turns he made before finally landing in his current position as DBS chief sustainability officer. Highlights (click/tap above): 6:52 What skills do I need to work in sustainability? 10:20 What is sustainable finance? 12:47 Do my individual efforts make a difference? 15:07 How caring about climate change protects what we love 26:03 Three little things you can do to change the world Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- Follow more podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- 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 --- #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E4: Beyond diversity, inclusion buzzwords: How to be more inclusive at work | 20 Oct 2024 | 00:31:31 | |
Observing with empathy, asking the right questions and listening will go a long way to charting out how to give meaningful support. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. Diversity, equity and inclusion are aspirational ideals that have permeated conversations of work life and good employment. Yet, there is still room for improvement when it comes to putting these aspirations into practice, if a survey on diversity issues commissioned by The Straits Times and release in August is anything to go by. In this episode, ST journalist Tay Hong Yi finds out how employers and employees both have their part to play in making workplaces more inclusive in meaningful ways without patronising those who benefit. His guests are: Ms Winifred Ling, a couples therapist and relationship coach who has lived with an invisible disability for close to two decades Ms Hsu Yi Peng, a young leader who helmed an initiative to provide students with diverse needs internship opportunities at her company, HSBC, on top of her day job as a product specialist. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:46 How did the idea of diversity, equity and inclusion come to the guests’ attention? 5:01 What was the learning curve like for Yi Peng when she took on the initiative? 9:20 Should employers or employees lead the charge to promote inclusion? 13:20 How did HSBC devise the support moves for students in the initiative? 19:12 How to balance between providing accommodations and seeing individuals for who they are beyond their traits? Read the feature by Rosalind Ang discussed on the podcast: https://str.sg/x4oC Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- Follow more podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- 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 #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| S2E3: Should we play with FIRE? | 06 Oct 2024 | 00:33:55 | |
We don’t all have to live frugally and retire by 40 years old, but we need to be financially disciplined so we can retire meaningfully. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. FIRE in this context, stands for financial independence, retire early - a movement that points to the desire to retire earlier than the usual age range of 65 to 70, through a regime of aggressive investing, saving and frugality during one’s working years. In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan investigates if Fire is for everyone, and if there are other ways to sustainably achieve financial freedom and retire at leisure. Her guests are Mr He Ruiming, 35, who as co-founder of the Woke Salaryman, talks about how he initially wanted to retire at the age of 32, and DBS financial literacy expert Lorna Tan, who feels that retiring meaningfully is more important to her. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:42 What are the different types of Fire? 3:14 Ruiming’s journey to achieve Fire by the age of 32 9:40 If I’m 25 now, what should I do to retire at 40? 12:56 What Ruiming wished he knew when he was younger 16:45 Lorna’s alternative to Fire, which is 'Firm' - financial independence, retiring meaningfully 21:46 Trends like loud budgeting which support more financial discipline 27:29 Using excel spreadsheets to track finances and goals Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- Follow more podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 ST Podcast website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts ST Podcasts YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- 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 #headstart See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||