Shows
The Feels with Charmian46. The end will always provide the means.*This episode is a follow-up to EP 36.
This was a year in the making! At the start of the season, I decided that we’ll all pick a theme for ourselves to live by in 2023. We’d let it guide us from the back of our minds and see how that intention would manifest for us. Now, 10 episodes later, I’m finally revealing my 2023 theme to you all and sharing the highs and lows that came with it.
This episode is paired with the upcoming one, where I’ll be featuring some of your themes and stor...
2023-12-1622 minThe Feels with Charmian45. Holding space for our toxic traits.The council has spoken; we're having a meeting with all of our toxic traits ☺ I'm not a fan of the woe-is-me mindset, and this is definitely not a hall pass for us to indulge in victim mentality. However, it is healthy to acknowledge what we got going on that is causing undesirable patterns in our lives, so that we may fire them accordingly.
In this episode, I share a few of my own patterns with you, to create a safe space for you to go within too. These include:
1) Calling it quits early
2) Ne...
2023-12-0924 minThe Feels with Charmian44. Don't give up. It will click for you.We all know what it's like to experience moments where we entertain the idea of giving up. It's taking too long, it's not going anywhere. We've all been there. If you're on the brink of that, perhaps this episode will help reignite the flame in you to keep going. Especially if giving up is not your first choice.
While my journey to becoming senior instructor at Absolute is not for everyone, my aim of sharing the highs and lows of this with you is to remind you to "make it to the click" no matter how winding...
2023-12-0231 minThe Feels with Charmian43. Your personality is not fixed.Your entire personality is made up. The identity you put on the most becomes who you are.
Whether that scares or comforts you, in this episode I discuss how that's possible through repeated storytelling. You are not a product of your circumstances, since those circumstances are actually taking cues from your state of mind, i.e. who you are being most of the time. The state you occupy the most, produces these outcomes that reaffirm what you first repeatedly entertained internally. So if we want our circumstances to change, we must first change within. Saddle up people...
2023-11-2522 minThe Feels with Charmian42. 20-something Charmian.We're baaaack.
Turning 30 this year has been liberating, and in the time away I found the words to describe my takeaways from being 20-something. I share my discovery about self-worth, recognising that there's more to life than being attractive to the people you like, to stop asking for permission, and how being triggered is a choice.
Side note; I hope you've been keeping tabs on your 2023 themes ;) I look forward to hearing your stories, the surprises and changes as a result of the theme you chose at the start of the year.
Next...
2023-11-1824 minThe Feels with Charmian41. You do know how to let go.Letting go is not something you do, it's something you stop doing.
In this episode, we'll be discovering:
1. What letting go is and isn't
2. Why letting go seems hard (but doesn't have to be)
3. The Sedona Method, and how I apply it
4. The Charmian Method, and how you can apply it!
Letting go doesn't have to be dark, tedious or dramatic. It doesn't have to take long. It can even be fun, if you allow yourself to make it so. I understand what it's...
2023-09-0639 minThe Feels with Charmian40. Why you can('t) forgive.It is the nature of nature to forgive.
Too often, when we think about "forgiving", we think it means to take action towards something or someone. But really, forgiveness is not about doing something, it is the absence of it. I'm here to tell you that no one other than you has the ability to convince you to un-feel resentment, disappointment or anger with regards to the matter at hand. You forgive when you are ready to. What we can do with the un-forgiveness, in the meantime, is learn about it, understand it, because we stop fearing something once...
2023-05-2818 minThe Feels with Charmian39. The Game of Influence — with Benjamin Kheng.Google “Top SG male influencer”, and the first name that ranks that list is Benjamin Kheng. Even if you don’t know what this multi-talented artist does exactly, you probably know him through social media, recognised for his sincere humour and never-ending pursuit for artistic expression. Ben is arguably one of the most creative people I know, and it was nice to kick back with him and chat about everything and nothing. I pick Ben’s brain on his views about the phenomena of social media influencing, reflect on our career passions and mental health, dish on when authenticity becomes overshar...
2023-05-211h 38
The Feels with Charmian38. Makings of a M/other — with Dr Loretta Chen.Hailed as “Asia’s Anna Wintour” and “Top 100 Women of the Future”, Singaporean Dr Loretta Chen is an award-winning creative director, bestselling author and respected professor. She was shortlisted as a Nominated Member of Parliament and was International Consultant to the investment arm of the Royal Government of Bhutan. Above all, she is a loving daughter, sister, wife, aunt, and mother to 18 fur babies. Her latest book, M/OTHER, is a collection of the most heart-wrenching, yet hopeful stories of mothers and their children from different walks of life.
In alignment with Mothers' Day, Loretta and I discuss th...
2023-05-141h 04The Feels with Charmian37. The thing you fear... is not real.
Fear is an emotion exclusive for the "future", that doesn't currently exist. It traps you in its own reality, and the only way it becomes your reality, is if you make it real. Read that again. In this episode, we discuss the illusion of fear, why we manifest unwanted/ fearful outcomes more "easily", and how to allow the presence of fear, without letting it run our lives. There is no need to fear fear. There is no need to fight it. It was never real to begin with.
The...
2023-05-0820 minThe Feels with Charmian36. Begin with the end.Welcome back to Season 3 of The Feels, people!
We kick off Part 1 by setting a theme for ourselves. If you've tried and tested this year's resolutions to no avail, let's try setting a theme instead. We discuss why themes give us direction without rigidity, and how to decide on the right theme for you. To keep each other motivated and accountable, we'll set our own themes, and check back in with each other in the final episode of the year. More details on this as the year unfolds!
The full episode list for Part 1 of...
2023-05-0112 minThe Feels with Charmian35. How abundant do you think you are?Hey Alexa, play Sam Smith's 'Money On My Mind'.
This is a fun one to end the year! To help you with your goal-setting for 2023, I thought I'd share with you how I manifested my money goals this year, from the moment I intended it, to how it unfolded, to what I've learnt in the process. No, this is not another cup method to manifest a couple hundred dollars, this is not where you find the secret to win the lottery, but a real look at what's been stopping you from actually having more...
2022-12-1936 min
SGExplainedSeason 5 ReviewWe can't believe we're finally here but 21 episodes later and it's time to wrap up Season 5 of SGExplained. This is a full banter episode as Charmian, Elliot and Rovik look back on their favourite episodes of the season and discuss some of the fresher elements in the show, including our new co-host Mian. We also look forward to what the series' future could look like and when we will be returning. Tune in now, and send in your feedback to let us know your thoughts as well!
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Intro Music: From Pixabay; Outro Music: Nielizas from...
2022-12-1831 min
SGExplainedPeranakan CultureYou can't talk about Singapore without talking about the Peranakans - a sub-community with a heritage associated with being Straits-born amidst a time of heavy immigration. Elliot, a Peranakan himself, shares his stories of growing up with some exposure to the culture and how he stays in touch with it. In this episode, you can look forward to:
Learning about the first Peranakans and how their ancestors came to Singapore (note: there are some traces of slavery as well)
Exploring the various aspects of Peranakan culture including food, arts and marriage customs
Adding to your list of Peranakan...
2022-12-0446 minThe Feels with Charmian34. It means what you think it means.Nothing in life has meaning. You make it mean something, so the question is, what does it mean to you?
Human beings are inherently storytellers. We are designed to create meaning, in order to make sense of our time here. Otherwise, there truly is no point to doing anything in life (ha). In this episode, we discuss the paradox of assigning meaning, why we choose to legitimatise some meanings and not others, and how to not live a life of delusion. The meaning of life isn't to be found, it is to be created. Make it mean...
2022-11-1022 min
SGExplainedPeople with Intellectual Disabilities in SingaporeIn partnership with MINDS MYG, this episode introduces the important People with Intellectual Disabilities (PWID) community in Singapore. We hear from Jessica (not her real name), a caregiver and volunteer about her experience directly, and as you can imagine from previous SGExplained episodes, this gets inspirational very quickly. In this episode, you can look forward to:
Getting a more specific definition of what Intellectual Disabilities entail
Debunk myths about PWIDs e.g. whether autism and intellectual disability are the same
Learn about how caregivers can also practice self-care as they support PWIDs
You can volunteer by signing up o...
2022-11-0646 minThe Feels with Charmian33. The fastest way is through.Some feelings feel particularly heavy, and no one likes that. Having been on both ends of the coping spectrum, i.e. letting negativity overstay its welcome, versus not acknowledging its presence at all -- I share why it is necessary to find a balance between the two. You're already feeling the ick whether or not you want to, and choosing not to feel it now, is simply postponing it. Letting it through is the fastest, cleanest way for it to leave.
2022-11-0318 minThe Feels with Charmian32. Take them off the pedestal.Why do we get some things that we want, and for others, they seem to elude us? In this episode, we discuss the tendency as human beings, to see our biggest desires, as big to begin with. In order to have the things we want, we have to become the version of us that naturally identifies with having it. We talk about how to shift into that mindset, and how to take our goals, people, and ideal states off the pedestal we built for them, in order to really experience them.
@charmiantyx
...
2022-10-1332 min
SGExplainedSingapore's Stance on DrugsThere has been a slew of news announcements lately on Singapore's stance on drugs, especially as some of our neighbours choose to liberalise their policies on substances such as marijuana. We take a look at why Singapore has been insistent on its position on drugs and how we have enacted laws to dissuade offenders. In this episode, you can look forward to:
Learning more about Singapore's Opium and Heroin epidemics and how we clamped down against them
Getting familiar with the Misuse of Drugs Act
Discovering preventative campaigns, including some controversial ones, that have helped to keep Singapore...
2022-10-0945 min
SGExplained100th Episode Special: Our Shared ValuesThank you for being on this amazing journey with us to reach 100 episodes on SGExplained!! It's a big deal for us, and if you are a Day One listener, please let us know so that we can reach out to you and invite you to our show for a chat! For this episode, we go back to the origins of why the show was even started: to explore the Singapore identity and what defines us. Foundational to this is Our Shared Values, a series of five values that have played an outsized role in defining a lot of our...
2022-09-1152 minThe Feels with Charmian31. Feeling wanted.What does it mean to “become the one” rather than “find the one”? If we find ourselves unable to keep relationships, is it them or is it us? In this episode, we discuss how the state of being we perceive relationships from, affects our relationship health. This is for anyone who wonders why they can never truly feel happy single or attached; the lack of fulfilment in any circumstance stems from your state. Remember, feeling loved is a choice you make, it has to start from you. Happy listening x
@charmiantyx
An optional...
2022-08-2327 min
SGExplainedThe Singapore ZooWe may have memories of the Singapore Zoo when we were children, but did you know that the overall Mandai Wildlife Group has been staying relevant through its sustainability and conservation efforts? Join us this episode as we:
Explore the history of the Zoo, including some of its unfortunate accidents
Trace the various unique exhibits in the main zoo
Forecast some of the key upcoming developments in the Zoo that we can enjoy
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Intro Music: From Pixabay; Outro Music: Nielizas from Pixabay;
Sources:
Singapore Zoo - Infopedia
About Singapore Zoo
Mandai Rejuvenation...
2022-08-1433 min
SGExplainedThe MRT SystemGetting from place to place in Singapore is convenient only because of our great public transportation, including our beloved MRT system! In this episode, the crew share laughs and develop an appreciation for our subway system, with tons of factoids in between. Look forward to:
Tracing the story of the subway-that-almost-never-was
Learning about some of our MRT's mascots, including Captain SMRT
Getting excited for new MRT stations that may open up in your neighbourhood!
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Intro Music: Wataboi from Pixabay; Outro Music: Nielizas from Pixabay;
Sources:
Wikipedia
SGTrains.com
HistorySG
2022-07-1740 minThe Feels with Charmian30. The Illusory Truth Effect, and why affirmations work.Let's talk affirmations! We affirm every moment of every day, so the question is, how do we affirm more of what we do want? A scan of what we experience now will give us a clue of what our subconscious programming is currently like. I discuss the Illusory Truth Effect and why you don't have to believe what you affirm, how to craft the right affirmations, when best to affirm intentionally.. and everything in between. This is a tried-and-true daily routine I use to stay in the best possible mindset. Write it, become it. x
(Psst. This...
2022-07-1330 min
The Feels with Charmian29. Lessons I take with me to 29.Some of us consider spiritual upgrades as becoming closer to God, but I see it as becoming closer to oneself. In the last year, I've learnt about what it means to change no one but self, reframed my perspective on the role of desire, and how I've arrived at trusting that what we want, we can have. Spoiler alert; it involves giving no one but yourself, the permission to believe that you can. Thank you for coming along on the ride, see you on the flip side of 29! x
@charmiantyx
If you e...
2022-06-2825 min
SGExplainedVisiting Johor BahruNow that borders have reopened, Singaporeans have been flocking to Malaysia, specifically to Johor Bahru across the border. In this episode, we reflect on the relationship these two cities share! Look forward to:
Learning how many people cross the border each day
Unpacking the economic features of the Singapore-Johor Bahru relationship
Adding to your list of places to visit in Singapore
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Intro Music: Wataboi from Pixabay; Outro Music: Nielizas from Pixabay;
Sources:
Relations between Singapore and Malaysia continue to thrive
Commentary: The former Malaysian workers in Singapore caught in limbo in Johor
...
2022-06-1941 min
SGExplainedPlanning for DeathWe're looking at the full life cycle this season, and so it only makes sense that we look at what happens in Singapore when you die! Zach Leung, Associate Director at PFPA, comes onto our show to shine some light on what happens after we pass on, especially to our assets and our loved ones. In this episode, you will:
Learn about the difference between "estate", "trust", and "will", especially in a Singapore context
Hear about the different ways your estate can be broken up if you do not plan ahead
Get advice on how to overcome some...
2022-05-2241 min
The Feels with Charmian28. How I look after my inner state. (and an announcement)It takes 21 days to form a habit, and 90 days to create a lifestyle. In 2022, I finally have a mental health routine that I feel confident about sharing with you :)
From my exact journaling format, to how I build a meditation routine I love, how I keep a mental diet, and how I start my mornings - I hope this episode motivates you to create a wellness routine that not only feels natural to you but one that you love. Feel free to skip ahead to specific sections with time codes, and all resources I referenced can be...
2022-05-1140 min
SGExplainedTaxi DriversWho can deny that taxi drivers are Singapore's master storytellers? We get the extremely cool opportunity to talk to Uncle Ben, the father of a close friend of Rovik's, who also happens to be a night-shift taxi driver about his storied life on the roads. In this episode, you will:
Learn about how many taxi and private hire drivers there are actually in Singapore
Hear Uncle Ben's take on the necessary ingredients to be a good taxi driver (and it doesn't include a large bladder)
Feel for some of the stories shared, whether it's hilarious encounters or his...
2022-04-2434 min
SGExplainedThe Orang LautThe Orang Laut are thought to be one of the first inhabitants of the islands that now make up Singapore, but why do so few people know about them? We chat with Firdaus Sani, founder of Orang Laut SG which is a community sustaining the stories of this lineage, to get the real scoop. In this episode, you can look forward to:
Learning about how the Orang Laut were politically significant in pre-colonial times
Hearing directly from Firdaus about how life was like on Pulau Semakau, the island where most of the Orang Laut lived
Understanding what is at...
2022-03-2735 minThe Feels with Charmian27. Are your beliefs yours? — with Chris Marhefka of Training Camp for The Soul"Every single thing about who we are, we got it from somewhere.”
Part of knowing ourselves is being able to identify what isn’t us. Do we know what beliefs are running our lives, and where do they come from? Chris Marhefka led many lives before this one; the one of an athlete, recovering from brain surgery, growing and selling seven-figure businesses, and finally becoming the CEO of personal healing and transformation. I chat with Chris on identifying our parental blueprint, rewriting the roles we play in our lives and what "doing the work" means. The beliefs we l...
2022-03-1552 min
SGExplainedSpecial Episode: SingLitThis episode is brought to you by National Library Board’s One Story, which is a National Reading Movement initiative to make Singapore short stories – originally written in Tamil, Malay, Chinese, or English – available in other languages. The project aims to bring these stories to more readers beyond the language communities that they were originally written for.
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We're taking a break from our break to share with you a special episode on Singapore Literature! Following up on our Poetry and Theatre episodes, this time we look at the world of Fiction in Singapore! Specifically, you can:
2022-02-2428 minThe Feels with Charmian26. REBEL AGAINST YOUR VICTIMHOOD.How often do we discuss our successes? How often do we talk about our failures? We get so comfortable replaying our failures in our head, one would think we enjoy failing ;) In this episode, I share how I rebel against unhealthy inner conversations when we miss the mark, and how to have a healthy relationship with failure. Get comfortable with failing, until it gets bored of you. Then, success!!
Connect with me @charmiantyx / charmiantan.com
An optional, cute way to support the podcast if you found this episode helpful to you! Thank you :) ☕ https://www.buymeacoffee.com/charmian ☕
2022-02-1115 minThe Feels with Charmian25. What's your money personality type? — with Matthew JohnLet's talk about MOOLAH! Or more specifically, how to make your money work for you, no matter how or what you earn. In this episode, I invite my friend Matthew John (@slim.matt) to reinforce the basics of money 101, and together, we break down the various money personality types there are out there. This is especially helpful if you work in a gig-economy, just entered the workforce, or are looking for ways to save comfortably, consistently.
Thank you to The Hive Lavender for sponsoring today's episode! Visit https://thehivestudios.com.sg/ for 20% off their...
2022-01-0635 min
The Feels with Charmian24. The secret to change, served on a kebab.The 24th episode on the 24th of the month - did I plan it? Maybe maybe maybe. This is the last episode for the year folks, and one I highly recommend giving a listen as we start thinking of our new year's resolutions. This, IMHO, is step 0 to lasting change - understanding how change really happens. Make 2022 the year you drop old stories of yourself; stories that no longer have a place within the version of you that you want to be. I'm sending you love and #kebabwisdom for the holidays. Catch you in the new year! x
2021-12-2414 minThe Feels with Charmian23. What are your Frozen Five?Say no to being A HOE HOE HOE! lol it’s cuffing season! A time so easy to settle for mediocre, less-than-fulfilling relationships out of loneliness. Sis is here to help strengthen your dating standards, by sharing with you author and sexologist, Shan Boody’s concept of the Frozen Five. We know what we don’t want, but do we actually know what we NEED in order to thrive in our relationships? I break down what you should be asking when listing your five non-negotiable traits, and as usual, share a (healthy) dose of my take and experiences in the fi...
2021-12-0125 minThe Feels with Charmian22. You are not your anxiety. — with Psychotherapist Jon LimWhat does your therapist think about you? And what are they really asking when they ask you questions? In this episode, I chat with Jon about his practice as a Psychotherapist and Mindfulness Teacher, to set the record straight about what mindfulness is, and how we can hold space for our anxieties. Skip ahead to parts that interest you with the timecodes below, or sit with us and let's unpack. Jon's having peppermint tea, I've got chamomile, make a cup for yourself too.
2021-11-1058 min
SGExplainedAh Bengs & Ah LiansThe Australians have their bogans, the British have their chavs and here in Singapore, we have the Ah Bengs and Ah Lians. What makes up this oft caricatured subculture? We chat with content creator Jeremiah Chen from Tropic Monsters TV about what inspires his hilarious sketches on these characters and learn more about how it adds to our Singaporean identity. In the spirit of the content, some expletives are used. Get listening to:
Understand the evolution of the Ah Beng/Ah Lian caricature over the years
Hear from the experts (yes there's an actual scholarly paper written) on...
2021-11-0731 min
SGExplainedHeritage Food - Ingredients and DishesPamelia Chia from Singapore Noodles comes onto our show this episode to discuss Heritage Food with us. It is a topic that is novel and complicated only because Singapore is an immigrant nation and we are starting to see a new wave of food evolution with influences from Japanese and European styles. In this lively conversation, we:
Discuss what exactly constitutes heritage food in a rapidly changing food environment
Go through iconic heritage ingredients such as Pangi and the Roselle Leaf, and get hungry over heritage dishes such as Nasi Ulam and Gulai Nenas
Envision what it will...
2021-10-2348 min
The Feels with Charmian21. A date with my co-star — Modern Dating with Ky TanWe’re baaack! To kick off season 2, I bring on my film’s co-star, Ky Tan, for a no holds barred conversation on modern dating. We discuss our share of bad dates, how to use dating apps effectively, defining “the one”, core values vs dealbreakers, and if marriage is the necessary end goal of heterosexual relationships.
Watch our film, This is how we never happened, here!
Connect with us on social media @kytanxh @charmiantyx
Get 50% off a new hot desk at The Hive when you start your membershi...
2021-10-181h 20
SGExplainedSikhism in SingaporeSikhs are known as a minority within a minority in Singapore, and yet they have an outsized influence on our identity in Singapore. Join us as we chat with Shaun Sarabjeet Singh, President of the Young Sikh Association, to learn about the history of the Sikh community in Singapore as well as how it integrates into the wider community. In this episode, we:
Trace the story of Maharaj Singh, the alleged first Sikh in Singapore who was also a political prisoner
Explore the institutions and practices of modern-day Sikhs, including why Tahu Sambal has a special place in...
2021-10-091h 03
SGExplainedThe Merlion - From Logo to National SymbolSingaporeans have a mixed set of feelings when it comes to the Merlion - on one hand, it is an increasingly globally recognised icon and a major tourist attraction, and on the other hand, it is a reminder that one of Singapore's biggest symbols comes not from a mythos but from a logo design. Join us this episode as Elliot and Rovik spend this short episode exploring the tale of the Merlion including:
Learning about the history of the Merlion as a logo for a government body
Following the Merlion's courageous move to its current location at Merlion...
2021-09-2337 min
SGExplainedThe Financial Hub StoryWhat's going on at Marina Bay Financial Centre and why is Singapore home to so many "Finance Bros and Brodettes"? In this episode, we're excited to have Reggie Koh from The Financial Coconut Podcast as a guest to chat with us about what really makes Singapore a Finance Hub! We make the jargon simplified so you don't have to wonder what asset management or currency internationalisation means! Tune in to:
Learn about how Singapore had the right ingredients for being a finance hub from its pre-colonial days
Explore the key pillars of our financial system here in Singapore
...
2021-09-031h 07The Feels with Charmian20. What have I manifested? — jobs, an ex, a vacay!!Started from the bottom now we here! We have levelled up with our manifestations since our free coffee days my friends. For the big 2-0, I share with you some of the fun (and unexpected) things that I’ve created in my life, using various methods mentioned by the likes of people like Billie Eilish, Shawn Mendes, Oprah, Ashley Graham.. the list goes on. Listen to get a healthy dose of wu-wu today, and remember, your thoughts create your reality; the good and the bad. Manifestation is simply, deliberate focus, so choose the thoughts that serve you and drop th...
2021-08-3027 min
The Feels with Charmian19. Couples who business together, stay together. — with Tim & Elaine of In Bad CompanyWe're back with a new guest episode! This week, I chat with Tim & Elaine of local restaurant-bar, In Bad Company, who together are business partners, and partners in life. While some of us might have the perception that business partnerships tend to jeopardise a romantic one (and vice versa), this couple dissects and divulges the secrets behind doing it so well. What decisions do they make together, and what work do they put in as individuals to make it happen? Dive in with me as Tim and Elaine reflect on their relationship journey through the ups and downs of...
2021-08-2247 min
SGExplainedNasi Lemak - Parcel DelightYou can identify the iconic Nasi Lemak, both by its aromatic coconut scent as well as its unique pyramid-shaped banana leaf packaging. Just coconut rice, sambal chilli and ikan bilis in a parcel, this delightful dish is a big part of Singapore food culture! Join us in this episode as we:
Learn about the hilarious alleged origin story of the name Nasi Le, Mak
Compare Singaporean and Malaysian versions of the dish
Go through some of the main competitors in the Singapore scene!
You'll see Singapore like you never have before. Also, SUBSCRIBE to our Substack to g...
2021-08-1941 minThe Feels with Charmian18. My tea on therapy — how I started, what I learnt, and why I haven’t gone back.It's time to spill the tea on my 2-year therapy journey! In this requested episode, I get real about the events in my life that motivated me to get therapy and look back on the person I was before I started, how it changed my perspectives, and share the reasons I haven't gone back so far. I hope these first-hand experiences will give you a better idea of the role of therapy in our lives, and also encourage you on your journey should you feel disheartened in your healing. Remember, healing is not linear, and it can get messy...
2021-08-0633 min
SGExplainedOperation Tiderace & The Japanese SurrenderWorld War 2 was a dark chapter in Singapore's history and so when the Japanese eventually surrendered, spirits were high amongst the residents. But did you know that there was a probability that the Japanese in Singapore would refuse to surrender despite the Emperor's announcement? Operation Tiderace was the Allied Forces' plan to secure Singapore and claim it back for the British. Check out this action-packed episode to learn about:
the original Operation Zipper that was meant to execute an airstrike on the Japanese in Singapore
the variety of ways the Japanese tried to escape humiliation in defeat, including...
2021-08-0435 minThe Feels with Charmian17. Are you lazy, or are you burnt out?Let’s about UNproductivity! We all have lazy days, days we don’t want to achieve, but if the lack of motivation draws out, there could be more we’re not seeing. In this episode, I highlight the key differences between laziness and burnout, to help you have a better idea of what we’re dealing with here, and know the fix to this disconnect we feel. Laziness is something we can live with, but pervasive burnout can lead to mood disorders like depression. Listen to your body and what it's telling you it needs :) Please reach out for professi...
2021-07-2619 min
SGExplainedThe Foster SystemDid you know that there's a community of foster parents in Singapore who contribute as a labour of love to provide safe and nurturing homes for vulnerable children? Frankly, Elliot and Rovik were not very aware before this recording of this incredibly coordinated and involved ecosystem of social workers, policy planners, and families who go the distance to ensure no children are disadvantaged because of unfortunate circumstances. We're especially privileged to have Hannah from TSA Gracehaven Fostering, and Shikin, a foster mother, as guests to share their experiences as well!. In this episode, we:
Understand who is eligible...
2021-07-1538 minThe Feels with Charmian16. Master your emotions with the 5 second rule.Do you control your emotions, or do they control you? I'm all for feeling our feelings, but in the heat of the moment, we can get carried away. The 5 second rule is known for helping you to curb hesitation, so that you can act on instinct and achieve your goals. By the same token, taking 5 seconds to not react when sh*t hits the fan can help you regulate your emotions, so that you can act from the better version of you. Tried and tested by yours truly — here's to emotionally self-regulating like a baus. x
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2021-07-0714 min
SGExplainedSnakes of SingaporeBiodiversity is important to any country, and in Singapore, we need to talk about our snakes. We're not talking about those folks who gossip behind our backs - this is about the reptiles that are hidden in our parks and wetlands, and are surprisingly not out to harm you! In this episode, we're privileged to have Sankar from the Herpetological Society of Singapore to share his own snake-spotting stories and to bust some myths about these creatures. He calls them cute a couple of times so you know he loves snakes. In this episode, we
Learn about the...
2021-07-0241 minThe Feels with Charmian15. How to build self-confidence, and keep it.Even the best of us struggle with feeling great about themselves from time to time, and that just reminds us we are human. But, a healthy level of self-confidence can be built and maintained, with some tools to help! In this episode, I share with you my roadmap to building confidence over the years — through uncovering the experiences that have caused it to falter, how then to bounce back from that, and what I do to keep my self-esteem healthy. We discuss the habit of getting to know ourselves, childhood trauma, and setting mental health boundaries, in order to pr...
2021-06-1932 min
SGExplainedThe Chewing Gum BanSingapore is known internationally for a couple of things and the Chewing Gum ban is high on the list. In this short episode, Elliot and Rovik follow the rather hilarious journey of how chewing gum got banned in Singapore as well as how a certain US company managed to get some gum back on the books. You may get stuck on this one (pun intended!)
This episode covers:
why chewing gum was actually tolerated for a while before the iconic ban
how our MRT system triggered our country's leaders enough to outlaw the gum
what it...
2021-06-1525 minThe Feels with Charmian14. The Pygmalion Effect: When you expect disappointment, you will be disappointed."No expectations, no disappointment" is a phrase some of us are comfortable living by, until you realise that is exactly how disappointment breeds. In this episode, I break down what The Pygmalion Effect is through a tried-and-true experiment, and give real life examples of how when we set up to fail, we indeed end up failing. The Pygmalion Effect argues that the higher the expectation, the better the outcome, and vice versa. So the question is, why expect yourself to fail? Remember that you're the only person creating your reality, and what you expect is what you get. Sooooo, expect...
2021-06-0114 min
SGExplainedSpecial Episode: Secret SocietiesWe're known as a crime-free country but have you heard about the history of Secret Societies in Singapore, one of the lesser-known phenomenon of our country's dark underbelly. Hear stories and facts about gangsters and thugs that you'd be surprised about including:
the fact that secret societies were actually multi-racial (in proper Singaporean fashion)
how coolies became part of the "pig trade", getting caught in vicious cycles of opium and prostitution
the tale of Pulau Senang, a penal settlement similar to Alcatraz, where the Singapore government tried to reform secret society members through hard work
This special...
2021-05-2654 minThe Feels with Charmian13. You don't have to like it, but you can accept it.The idea of Radical Acceptance feels somewhat overwhelming, especially when we find ourselves rooted in uncomfortable situations. How can we accept something we don't like? In this episode, I break down what psychologist Marsha Linehan terms Radical Acceptance, and how to practice it especially in these trying pandemic times, where shifts are inevitable, and normalcy fluctuates. Radical Acceptance allows us to adapt to change quicker, and gives us room to take control of undesirable states we may find ourselves in. I hope this helps you today. Stay safe. x
Connect with me on:
IG: charmiantyx
CH: charmiantan
2021-05-2012 minThe Feels with Charmian12. Stop trying to be positive. Do this instead.Ever find that when we try to "be positive", doing exactly that feels harder? I break down why this piece of advice can be counter-effective, and how it could even set you back further on your emotional scale. This is one of those times non-action is actually good action. Listen to find out why and... don't press the red button. Don't do it. Don't. Do. It.
2021-04-2207 min
The Feels with Charmian11. What healing looks like, from a burn survivor. — with Charlene Chew"The things you face in life are harder, because your calling is higher."
Charlene Chew is one of the strongest people I know. She is a burn survivor, but beyond that, she's intelligent, free-spirited, and is meant for something great. In this episode, we uncover the fateful burn accident that changed her life, listen to what her recovery journey entails, and discuss what self-healing really is about. We talk about what happens when we forgive, when we detach, sitting with the discomfort, and reclaiming our power. This is for you if you need extra strength to walk through your own...
2021-03-2135 min
SGExplainedThe Tattoo Scene - Fringe or Mainstream?We always enjoy the episodes where we look at the "fringe" of Singapore culture, but are tattoos too mainstream here to even be fringe anymore? We chat with Tattoo Artist Beverly Ann Koh (bev.bot on IG) about her experience in the industry and how Singapore has moved to be more inclusive of tattoos. We explore the history of tattoos with gangs, recent trends in tattoos (have you heard of hyper-realism?) as well as some of the industry dynamics here. These are some of our favourite types of conversations so we hope you enjoy it them too!
...
2021-03-0836 minThe Feels with Charmian10. The truth about my weight loss.In this episode, I open up about my unanticipated weight loss, and how anxiety had a hand in it. The experience allowed me to reexamine the relationship I have with my body, and how we see weight loss as a measure of success or even happiness. It’s completely okay to want to look better, but remember you don’t have to wait for your body to look better, before loving it. Start now, no matter where you are in your journey or how you look like, because real, lasting change truly comes from within.
2021-03-0719 minThe Feels with Charmian09. How our brain works: from sleep, to love. — with Neuroscientist Dr. Claudia AguirreThis week, we dissect the brain with the help of Dr. Claudia Aguirre, neuroscientist and mind-body expert! From across the world in LA, Dr. Claudia’s work is highly sought after across TV and radio shows, beauty & wellness brands, and she's also an educator with TED. In this episode, we discuss what really happens when we sleep, how melatonin can help us fight Covid-19, how our skin processes emotions, and even settle the age-old debate — is love just a chemical reaction in the brain? Can we *actually* make someone fall in love with us?
For...
2021-02-2840 min
SGExplainedAn Outlook on AgeingAgeing is a scary topic but it has shaped much of Singapore's landscape in the last few decades. We're privileged to have an advocate and opinion leader, Dr Farhan Alami, come into the virtual studio to share her insights on how ageing and dementia affect not just the elderly but also their families and loved ones. Learn about the statistics surrounding ageing and some of the issues specific to Singapore we try to tackle. We also learn about our uniquely Singaporean approach to ageing and dementia, covering buzzwords such as "Ageing in Place" and "Kampung for all Ages" which...
2021-02-1839 minThe Feels with Charmian08. Not all partners lead to forever — with Barbara Latimer (Part 1)Happy Valentine’s Day people! The beautiful Barbara Latimer joins me for a special episode this week, where we talk about everything to do with dating in the modern age. In Part 1 of this no-holds-barred conversation, we discuss coping with loneliness, our experiences with dating apps, and getting back with the ex. Grab popcorn (see also: wine) cause this is a *juicy* one. Barbara Latimer is an event host, TV presenter and boxing instructor (she also made it a point to mention she does puppeteering and is a full-time fun aunt).
Connect with us on Instagram @latimerbarbara @charmiantyx and stay tu...
2021-02-1149 min
SGExplainedSingtel & Our Early Telecom DaysIf you're reading this, you're probably doing so on the internet and maybe even on your phone. The fact that we have access to telecom and mobile services in Singapore has a lot to owe to Singtel's past, as once our national telecom provider and the largest contributor of infrastructure. Journey with us as we trace how Singtel survived the removal of its monopoly and how it evolved to be one of Singapore's best-known brands. We even explore major controversies such as the Bukit Panjang Fire and even the Xiaxue scandal. All this and more in our latest episode!
2021-02-0436 minThe Feels with Charmian07. Journal your way to success.In this episode, I share with you my blueprint for journaling in the most efficient and enjoyable way. If you have trouble being consistent, it’s okay because that’s me too! These 4 tips will absolve you of journaling guilt, and help you shift your mindset positively. Let me know which tips help you best, and have fun writing!
Show notes:
1 Do it out of inspiration, not out of obligation.
2 Length does not matter.
3 Write about what you want, not what you don’t want.
4 Journal digitally!
2021-02-0131 minThe Feels with Charmian06. Listen to your gut — with Puja BansalI am incredibly excited to welcome my first guest on The Feels podcast! Puja Bansal is first and foremost a dear friend of mine, but in her professional career, is a Nutritional Therapist, a mother of 2, and an amazing wife and cook all in one. She believes food is medicine, and has worked with clients in their various recovery journeys. In this episode, we discuss all things gut-related, and while we get behind the science of diets, we also dissect what the "gut feeling" really is. Just how accurate is our intuition, and, can we trust it? Through chatting with...
2021-01-241h 03
SGExplainedPOSB - The Community BankWhat's the Post Office part of the POSB? Why is it in every neighborhood? And perhaps most importantly, is the Postmaster General really the Chief Mailman of Singapore? We answer all these questions and more in this lighthearted look at the institution of community banking in Singapore and where our habit of saving earnestly came from! Do let us know what topics you'd like to hear about next!
Sources:
NLB Infopedia
5 things you probably didn’t know about POSB/DBS merger - Goodyfeed
POSB Smart Buddy - POSB
2021-01-2127 minThe Feels with Charmian05. Ladies, it's a dark world out there.On New Year's Eve 2020, I met a boy carrying an umbrella.
This is how we never happened. And that's okay!
2021-01-1710 minThe Feels with Charmian04. Alright, alright, alright.Actor Matthew McConaughey recently published his memoir, Greenlights. It's introspective and lots of fun to listen to as an audiobook! Before I picked it up, I came across an interview he did that I thought really put into perspective my career switch this past year. Borrowing his wisdom and wisecracks, I (finally) talk about what made me left radio, and how sometimes, running shirtless on the beach just ain't enough.
References:
Watch his interview with Impact Theory.
Listen to his book Greenlights on audible.
2021-01-1018 min
SGExplainedThe Women's CharterWith the government's announcement that a review on women’s issues in Singapore will be conducted to look more closely at how gender equality can be more deeply ingrained in Singapore society, we thought to explore the evolution of gender issues in Singapore. The Women's Charter provides a central lens for such an exploration, tracing its origins to pre-independent Singapore and being the platform for debates such as whether men should be entitled to maintenance after divorce or whether NS should extend to women.
Join Margaret Thomas, President of AWARE, as she banters with Rovik on some of...
2021-01-0732 minThe Feels with Charmian03. Testing Out: Manifestation!A fun little experiment to start the new year! In this episode, I share what I’ve learnt about the art of Manifestation, or as some call it; conscious creation. Does it work? Is it magic? HOW did I do it? More importantly — (yawns) what can it teach us about, well, us? Whether you’re doing it to learn more about yourself, or just want to get free coffee... it’s pretty fun. Here's to a ~magical~ 2021!
2020-12-3126 min2020-12-2316 minThe Feels with Charmian01. Welcome to my audio journal.You can take the mic out of the girl, but you can't take the girl away from the mic!
Hi, I'm back.
2020-12-2309 min
SGExplainedCampus Sexual MisconductWe've heard of the spree of sexual misconduct and harassment cases in the news and the question must be asked, what does this say about who we are as a Singaporean society, and why are we having such a difficult time talking about this topic? Elliot and Rovik try their best, within their constraints, to have a conversation around the cases that have occurred, the broader statistics around sexual harassment and misconduct on campuses, and why it is important for us to look at policy, legislation, community, and culture in addressing the harm that is happening to our young...
2020-12-1646 min
SGExplainedThe National LibraryWe've all had our own personal stories with the Singapore library system before and I'm sure we can all attest it's one of the best of Singapore's public resources. Join us as we dive into the evolution of the library system including the digitalization of the library, the story of how it survived the Japanese Occupation (hint: there are some returning characters), and even a funny story of how books were passed between libraries in a HUMAN CHAIN!! This episode is our tribute to one of the reasons why we can do our episodes without much difficulty - the...
2020-12-0541 min
SGExplainedKatong, Peranakan EscapeIf you want to find old Peranakan houses or have some tasty kueh, you've probably made your way to Katong. Elliot himself is a proud homeboy of the area. But did you know that Katong pre-land reclamation was home to one of Singapore's better-known kampongs that made its living from the sea? Or maybe you're interested to find out why there's a Chinese Swimming Club that was exclusively for Chinese-access only? Elliot and I dig into what makes Katong so special, both in the past and the present. Tune in to find out about places like:
Kim Choo...
2020-11-1322 min
SGExplainedMerchants of SingaporeThey're all over Singapore - Ann Siang Hill, Fraser Street, Aljunied among others. Who were these people and why are there so important to the Singapore story? We take a look at the mercantile story of Singapore - the stalwarts of community and enterprise that shaped so much of our identity today. Hear under-told stories like how Ngee Ann Kongsi (behind Ngee Ann Polytechnic and Ngee Ann City) was formed or whether there were actually Buffalos on Buffalo road. This episode brings a blockbuster list of Singaporean merchants who have shaped the face of Singapore. Thanks to the National...
2020-10-3037 min
SGExplainedSingapore Botanic GardensOne of three UNESCO World Heritage Sites that is a garden and Singapore's sole representative on the list, the Singapore Botanic Gardens is simultaneously one of the most under-rated and yet culturally significant parts of Singapore. Hear about the history of the Gardens, including its lesser-known episode during the Japanese Occupation, as well as about the different features and research that are so well associated with it! We hope you're excited to go check it out yourself whenever you can!
2020-10-1623 min
SGExplainedThe Influencer SceneWelcome back to Season 3 of SGExplained! We're so pumped to be back on this and we started off with a bang, bringing on Althea Lim from Gushcloud to talk about the Influencer Scene in Singapore. Not much is known about it but it shapes so much of Singapore's social media consumption as well as our pop culture. In this episode, we find out what drives the rise of influencer culture, whether there's a career to be made, what the future of it looks like and how all of that affects Singapore's story. We hope this finally provides some insights into...
2020-10-0140 min
SGExplainedEsports - Singapore's Unsung HeroWe have to look beyond Joseph Schooling to bring back the Gold medals for Singapore, and we may have found hope in Esports! Naturally not as well known as the traditional sports, given that it's new and gaming has usually had an affiliation with low productivity, but Esports is actually creating a way for Singaporeans to thrive on the global scene. Join us as we follow some of the organizations that make up the Esports scene, trace the stories of major players such as iceiceice and nutz and talk about what the future of the scene could look like!
2020-07-2733 minSGExplainedThe Poetry SceneWith special guest Ajay Govinda, Slam Poetry Enthusiast, we explore the understated world of Singapore Poetry. From understanding our Poetic Roots to appreciating the Singapore-originating Twin Cinema format, we rhyme and vibe our way throughout the poems that have followed our narrative. Hear us actually recite some of the poems as well - our first time trying this!
Here are some of the links we mentioned:
FMSR Poem by Teo Poh Leng
SingPoWriMo
Twin Cinema Poetry
Fried Chicken by Jennifer Anne Champion
old house at Ann Siang Hill by Arthur Yap
2020-07-0637 minSGExplainedFarming the Singaporean WayBet you didn't know that Singapore has a long-held farming heritage! Not only that, we're about to double down on farming the Singaporean way, with the 30 by 30 initiative to secure Singapore's food safety by 2030. It's useful to get to know how our farming culture is evolving here, including a new breed of hipster and innovative farmers. Learn more about the produce we produce in Singapore!
Here are some of the farmers we talked about:
Quan Fa Organic Farm
Citizen Farm
Comcrop
Also do check out the entertaining podcast "Living It Up in the Lion City" by our good friend Rindo!
2020-06-1630 minSGExplainedHawker CultureLet's be real - what's more Singaporean than our hawker centers? Who runs them, how did they start and what's the future looking like with the young hawker-preneurs waiting to take over the reins? Join us as we explore this delicious topic and when you reach the end, you get to hear our favorite hawkers also! Continue to provide suggestions for our future episodes - we love to hear from you!
For the full list mentioned:
Tian Tian Chicken Rice
Hawker Chan - Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice
Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodles
Fried Carrot Cake @ Clementi 448 Market
...
2020-06-0141 minSGExplainedSingapore AirlinesOur national carrier has been in the news before, but this time, the reasons aren't great. We look back at why Singapore Airlines is so intertwined with our national identity, revisiting its founding as well as its major episodes, including the A380 launch and the "Longest Flight in the World". Join us as we learn more about some of its subsidiaries too, including SilkAir and Scoot, and finally, we check out how the COVID-19 crisis has hit the company. There must be a reason why our country will fight to keep Singapore Airlines alive and we make the journey...
2020-05-2234 minSGExplained2013 Little India RiotsAs a modern cosmopolitan city, Singapore tries its best to avoid riots. Yet in 2013, out of nowhere and sparked by an unfortunate accident, a street in Little India erupts into flames as migrant workers mob up. This episode we dive into the timeline of events and analyze the aftermath, including the Liquor Control Act and the pushing of migrant workers to compact districts on the fringes of Singapore. Jump into this rather unfortunate but eventful episode of Singapore's history with us!
Resources:
Wiki Page
Singapore Infopedia
Donating to Community Kitchen and HomeforAll: Giving.SG Link h...
2020-04-2737 minSGExplainedSARS 2003 EpidemicIf you're listening to this in 2020, you're likely just like us - overwhelmed by the COVID-19 Pandemic. You've also probably heard that it's not our first rodeo. Rather than try to explain a phenomenon still unraveling, Elliott and I take a journey back to 2003 to see how Singapore dealt with the SARS crisis and how things have changed since then. Advents such as social media up the stakes of today's situation when compared to SARS, but the novelty of it all really provided a difficult test for our country. Check out the evolution of Singapore's public health system with...
2020-03-2941 min
SGExplainedChicken Rice WarsHow could a dish that looks so simple become one of Singapore's national dishes? Does Hainanese chicken rice even come from Hainan? And why can you get both a $2.50 and $27 version within the same 100m radius.
Chicken Rice is what this episode is all about as we explore the history and tradition of this iconic Singaporean dish. You'll be hungry by the end of it!
2019-09-1740 min
SGExplainedTalking about RacismAsking if Singaporeans are racist seems like a line not many are willing to cross. But maybe that's not the right question. When race is a salient topic in the country, racism is bound to be present and so we just need to be willing to talk about it - from events like the E-Pay Saga to institutions like SAP Schools. It's difficult but worth it in a classic episode of SG Explained
2019-08-221h 05
SGExplainedSoccer in SingaporeOur national sport could probably do a lot better but how do we reconcile the passion of our players with the lack of growth in the sport? We bring in special guest Justin Hui from Hougang United FC to talk to us about his journey and views on soccer in Singapore, including dealing with the difficult issues of career development and overseas teams.
2019-07-2347 min
SGExplainedGifted Education ProgramGifted vs Non-Gifted - what's the distinction? How is this controversial legacy of the hyper-meritocratic age functioning and what are its implications on the lives of citizens? All this and more in this episode!
2019-05-171h 01
SGExplainedPublic Order ActCan you protest outside of Speaker's Corner? What does the Public Order Act actually aim to achieve? Will we get called up because we sat together and discussed the juicy material around protesting in Singapore? All of this and more in our latest episode!
2019-04-231h 01
SGExplainedMulti-Religious HarmonyWatain, a black metal band, got banned in Singapore and the debate on the role of religion in Singapore re-emerged. We took a look at one of the foundations of religious harmony in Singapore - the Multi-Religious Harmony Act, and we found out some really interesting historical tidbits.
If you like what we do, please do leave us a review and share our content! We depend on loyal listeners like you to get more to be interested in uncovering layered narratives in Singapore.
2019-03-161h 02
SGExplainedRethinking HiringWith special guest Martin Tan from The Majurity Trust, this week we explore hiring and recruitment in Singapore. Is it really fair and is it effective in finding the best person for the job? We tackle sacred cows such as meritocracy and we explore sticky issues like unconscious bias. Enjoy!
2019-02-2843 min
SGExplainedWaterIf you grew up Singaporean, you're probably familiar with the adage cautioning you against wasting water. Water security is a big deal in Singapore and in our attempt to make sure we have it, we've also created one of our best innovations: NEWater. Join us as we dive into all the wet and wonderful knowledge in this episode!
2019-01-271h 07
SGExplainedSingapore-Malaysia BorderIf you've paid attention to the recent news, you would have noticed the commotion over Singapore and Malaysia's maritime borders! Sticking to our promise of slowing down the news, we took a step back and examined the history of our borders and where some of these ambiguities come from. There's a lot of new knowledge here, even for Rovik and Willie!
2018-12-2252 min
SGExplainedDating in SingaporeIs love lost in Singapore or is there a chance that dating is easier than it seems? We dig into the data and try to figure out what Singapore's dating scene is like - exploring everything from online dating to marriage rates. Who knows - you may learn how to maximize your chances from finding a partner as well.
2018-11-2352 min
SGExplainedParliamentary ElectionsWe have a new guest co-host today: Elliot Tan from Tree Potatoes! We speak about Parliamentary Elections, how you vote, what the GRC system is and why the opposition has a hard time getting into parliament. Real interesting stuff!
2018-10-161h 03
SGExplainedSection 377AIt seems like Section 377A has become a lightning rod for all kinds of issues of morality and inclusivity in Singapore. Yet, have we forgotten exactly what the letter of the law is and where it came from? We trace the story of 377A and how it made its way into our society, witnessing some of the developments along the way.
2018-09-221h 01
SGExplainedSalariesIt's only Episode 2 and we thread into a territory close to every Singaporean's hearts: Salaries! What is the salary landscape in Singapore? How do Civil Servants get paid? And how does the Prime Minister get that $2.2 Million Salary? We delve into all these topics and more in this very juicy episode of SG Explained!
2018-08-211h 22