Tank Talks Asia

AsiaWorks

Against a backdrop of booms, busts, and geopolitical shifts, Asia continues its quiet and confident rise. More than ever, new and colourful Asian voices are bursting onto the global stage, from the world of business, tech, media, music, politics, sports, art, and culture. Hosted by acclaimed broadcaster and interviewer Manisha Tank, Tank Talks Asia meets the humans helping to drive this dynamic region forward.

  1. The Film That Changed Hong Kong Documentary Cinema | Robin Lee | Tank Talks Asia

    6 MAY

    The Film That Changed Hong Kong Documentary Cinema | Robin Lee | Tank Talks Asia

    In this episode of Tank Talks Asia, Manisha Tank talks to filmmaker Robin Lee, who shares the story behind “Four Trails”, his award-winning movie that documents one of Hong Kong’s most punishing endurance challenges (it combines Hong Kong’s four major hiking trails into one continuous 298-kilometre journey). Robin discusses what it took to turn this passion project into a piece of Hong Kong film history, as well as the documentary’s success, its growing international audience, and how it is helping to showcase a different side to Hong Kong. “Four Trails” has just been released in North America and will debut in Japan in July, but Robin is currently exploring opportunities for broader distribution. So if you can help connect the film with wider audiences internationally, he’d love to hear from you. Featured Voices Host: Manisha Tank Guest: Robin Lee, Award-Winning Filmmaker and Director of “Four Trails” Key takeaways The Four Trails challenge, which the film documents, pushes runners across 298 kilometers and more than 14,500 metres of elevation with no official prizes beyond personal achievement.Robin says his passion for action sports helped inspire him to make “Four Trails”.Making the film also became an endurance test for Robin, as it involved six months of planning, three days of filming, and a two year editing process.A composer was hired to create the film’s emotional soundtrack, which is carefully crafted to mirror the physical and psychological journey of the trail runners.“Four Trails” has now become one of Hong Kong’s most successful documentary releases and earned Robin a Best New Director award at the Hong Kong Film Awards. Chapter heads 02:10 When Passion Pays Off Robin describes the surreal moment he won a major award for a film that started as a passion project. 03:40 From Ski Films to Hong Kong Mountains He reflects on his background in action sports filmmaking and how it influenced his decision to tell this story. 04:37 More Than a Race Robin discusses why Four Trails is not really a competition, but a deeply personal test of resilience. 08:11 Capturing Human Limits He talks about the difficulty of filming the runners in moments of extreme physical and mental exhaustion. 10:22 An Endurance Test Robin shares how making the documentary became his own personal Four Trails challenge. 12:01 Editing 200 Hours of Footage He describes the painstaking process of turning hundreds of hours of raw footage into a feature-length film. 14:01 Why Music Matters Robin explains how the score was specially composed to heighten the emotional journeys of the runners. 15:42 The Struggle for Distribution He opens up about his two-year effort to secure distribution and how getting the film seen, in some ways, proved harder than making it. 17:49 Chow Yun Fat’s Surprise Endorsement Robin recounts the surreal moment when “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” star Chow Yun Fat requested a private screening of his film. 19:30 Global Hope He talks about the ongoing efforts to find international distributors so the film can reach a wider audience. 20:44 Showcasing a New Hong Kong The episode closes with Robin reflecting on how “Four Trails” is helping to reshape perceptions of Hong Kong and how he has now become part of the city’s film history. Useful links https://www.fourtrails.hk/ https://www.instagram.com/robintlee/ https://www.instagram.com/hk4tuc/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ogms9773yi0 https://www.facebook.com/lostatlasproductions/ https://www.robinleevisuals.com/ https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000334/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6sOEH3yrNlI Don’t miss out We’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email: tanktalksasia@asiaworks.com And don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia. Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.

    25 min
  2. From a Village in Java to Glastonbury: How an All-Girl Indonesian Metal Band Rose to the World Stage | Marsya from the Voice Of Baceprot | Tank Talks Asia

    22 APR

    From a Village in Java to Glastonbury: How an All-Girl Indonesian Metal Band Rose to the World Stage | Marsya from the Voice Of Baceprot | Tank Talks Asia

    In this episode of Tank Talks Asia, guest host Andrew Clark is joined by Voice of Baceprot’s frontwoman, Firda Marsya Kurnia, better known as Marsya. She talks about the Indonesian heavy metal group’s remarkable journey from meeting as school friends in a small village in West Java, to performing at events like Glastonbury and the Singapore F1. Marsya reflects on the role social media has played in helping propel the band to fame, as well as discussing their distinctive look. She also talks about why the band isn’t afraid to address social and political issues in their song lyrics. Featured Voices Host: Andrew Clark (interviewer); Manisha Tank (introduction) Guest: Firda Marsya Kurnia, Voice of Baceprot, vocalist and guitarist Key takeawaysMarsya talks about how the Voice of Baceprot trio were guided by a teacher at school, who became their mentor.She says that discovering metal music on their teacher’s laptop sparked their interest in the genre.Marsya discusses how the band uses music to address social issues, such as poverty, patriarchy and freedom of expression in Indonesia.She reflects on the role social media played in turning a low-quality music video into a viral moment that launched their international career.Marsya also highlights the importance of giving back and explains how the band have built a studio in their hometown to support other young musicians. Chapter heads00:00 From a Small Town to the Global Stage Andrew and Manisha introduce Voice of Baceprot, discussing the band’s roots in rural Indonesia and their rise to fame. 03:25 How It All Began Marsya explains how a teacher played a pivotal role in helping form the band while the girls were at school. 04:55 Discovering Metal She talks about how discovering the music of System of a Down and Rage Against the Machine sparked their interest in metal. 06:00 Naming the Band Marsya goes on to discuss the story behind Voice of Baceprot and the positive influence of their mentor. 07:01 Musical Influences She discusses how global metal icons and the Indonesian music scene have contributed to shaping the band’s sound. 08:28 Joy and Bravery Marsya talks about key themes in their music and says that performing is an act of freedom and self-expression for the trio. 10:04 Challenging Perceptions She talks about how, by performing metal in the hijab, the girls have had to confront online and offline stereotypes. 11:46 Music and Social Issues Marsya states that the band isn’t afraid to address issues like patriarchy and inequality in their lyrics. 12:58 Going Viral and Going Global She explores how social media transformed their path and opened up international doors. 15:47 Life on Tour She shares insights from performing at Glastonbury to Wacken and tells us how it feels to meet your musical idols. 20:40 Giving Back at Home Marsya explains that the band have returned to live in their home village and have built a studio there with the aim of supporting other talent. 23:33 The Next Chapter She outlines the band’s upcoming plans and has some advice for other young women in Asia. Useful links https://voiceofbaceprot.com/ https://www.instagram.com/marsyavob/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DH4sQPdgOgk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KJOtmMKwkcc https://www.instagram.com/p/DAVd8ynyUuG/a-little-story-when-we-were-racing-our-musical-roar-at-the-singapore-f1-arena-f1/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OU420zwX7do&list=RDOU420zwX7do&start_radio=1 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iywaBOMvYLI https://www.instagram.com/alissawhitegluz/?hl=en-gb https://copenhell.dk/en/front-page/ https://www.instagram.com/voiceofbaceprot/ https://www.youtube.com/@VoiceofBaceprot https://www.tiktok.com/@voiceofbaceprot https://open.spotify.com/artist/32rI2a65NqHEnTAewmPNEC?si=r0wuYnZkSZOmpktT-Sr6Vg Don’t miss out We’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email: tanktalksasia@asiaworks.com And don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia. Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.

    26 min
  3. From Hormuz to Hong Kong: How the Iran War is Redirecting Capital to Asia | Milken Symposium Hong Kong | Tank Talks Asia

    15 APR

    From Hormuz to Hong Kong: How the Iran War is Redirecting Capital to Asia | Milken Symposium Hong Kong | Tank Talks Asia

    In this episode of Tank Talks Asia, Manisha Tank is joined by colleagues Andrew Clark and Yeen Chong for a debrief from the Milken Global Investors’ Symposium in Hong Kong. The symposium’s theme this year was “Capital in a Changing World”. Drawing on their conversations with policymakers, investors and entrepreneurs, they explore Asia’s economic resilience, China’s accelerating digital transformation, and the long-term growth story emerging across Southeast Asia. Featured Voices Hosts: Manisha Tank, Andrew Clark and Yeen Chong Guests: Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, Former Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation, Egypt Professor Ben Shenglin, Dean, International Business School, Zhejiang University Perry Wong, Managing Director and Senior Fellow, Milken Institute International Christopher Ganis, Chief Investment Officer, Indonesia Investment Authority Adrian Li, Founder and Managing Partner, ACV Capital Zabrina Lo, Senior Editor, Tatler Key takeaways We discuss how geopolitical tensions in the Middle East are helping to accelerate capital flows into Asia, with cities like Hong Kong and Singapore seen as stable investment hubs.We talk about how China’s rapid digital transformation, especially in payments and infrastructure, is reshaping how capital moves and how economies function.We explore how Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia, is emerging as a major long-term investment opportunity, driven by demographics and domestic consumption.We look at how deglobalization is creating both uncertainty and opportunity, and is pushing countries to build resilience through regional collaborations like ASEAN.We consider how social and cultural perceptions in Asia are shifting, with younger generations increasingly choosing to pursue careers in the arts and creative industries. Chapter heads 00:20 Setting the Scene Manisha introduces Andrew and Yeen and asks them to unpack their experience at the Milken Institute Global Investors’ Symposium in Hong Kong. 02:15 The Elephant in the Room: Geopolitics They discuss the impact of events in the Middle East and how global uncertainty is shaping investor sentiment. 03:35 Capital Flows in Asia Dr. Rania Al-Mashat talks about how capital is shifting across Asia, driven by a growing demand for stability and predictability. 09:09 China’s Digital Leap Professor Ben Shenglin explains how digital payments and infrastructure are transforming China’s economy and capital movement. 11:46 Rethinking Growth in China Perry Wong evaluates China’s approach to market correction, government intervention and long-term economic resilience. 16:00 Indonesia’s Moment Christopher Ganis outlines how deglobalization and domestic strength are positioning Indonesia as a key investment destination. 20:21 Southeast Asia’s Growth Story Adrian Li shares why the region’s demographics and economic fundamentals make it one of the world’s most compelling opportunities. 25:50 Hong Kong’s Cultural Evolution Zabrina Lo reflects on the growing viability of careers in the arts and creative industries. Useful links https://milkeninstitute.org/ https://www.zju.edu.cn/english/ https://www.britannica.com/biography/Adam-Smith https://asean.org/ https://www.ina.go.id/ https://hyrox.com/ https://acv.vc/ https://www.tatlerasia.com/ Don’t miss out We’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email: tanktalksasia@asiaworks.com And don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia. Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.

    28 min
  4. The Beatles, Imelda Marcos and the 'Snub' That Changed Everything | David Guerrero | Tank Talks Asia

    8 APR

    The Beatles, Imelda Marcos and the 'Snub' That Changed Everything | David Guerrero | Tank Talks Asia

    In this episode of Tank Talks Asia, guest host Andrew Clark is joined by author and advertising executive, David Guerrero, to discuss The Beatles’ controversial visit to Manila in 1966. David’s new book “You Won’t See Me: When The Beatles Ghosted Imelda” revisits, from a Filipino perspective, the events that led to one of the band’s most infamous tour incidents. They discuss how miscommunication, cultural differences and media narratives have shaped the way a missed invitation to Imelda Marcos’ palace is remembered. Guerrero even suggests this Manila trip may have played a role in The Beatles’ decision to stop touring! Featured Voices Host: Andrew Clark (interviewer); Manisha Tank (introduction) Guest: David Guerrero, Author and Creative Chair of BBDO Guerrero Key takeaways David explains how the 1966 Manila incident has, until now, largely been told from the band’s perspective, leaving the Filipino side underrepresented.He says the missed visit to the palace to meet the Filipino First Family stemmed from miscommunication, rather than intentional disrespect.David discusses how cultural differences played a major role in escalating the situation.He explains how media narratives, repeated over decades, have helped cement a simplified (and possibly unfair) version of events.David believes that the fallout, including security withdrawal and airport tensions, ultimately contributed to the band’s decision to stop touring. Chapter heads 00:00 Scene Setting Andrew and Manisha explain who David Guerrero is and talk about his cross-cultural upbringing and global career. 06:06 Formative Years David reflects on how his interest in The Beatles first began and how Sgt. Pepper played a significant role for him in shaping a lasting connection to their music. 08:10 A Different Lens on a Famous Story Andrew provides some background to the story, while David outlines how The Beatles were subjected to intense media scrutiny wherever they went. 14:06 The Palace Invitation David details how excitement built ahead of The Beatles’ visit, which led to a poorly communicated invitation to Malacañang Palace being issued. 17:08 Miscommunication and Cultural Nuance He goes on to discuss how assumptions and indirect communication led to the misunderstanding on both sides. 19:45 The Fans at the Heart of the Story David shares an account from a group of Filipino fans, including their encounter with The Beatles at their hotel. 21:35 Fallout and Escalation He explains how the perceived disrespect to the First Family led to The Beatles having their security withdrawn. 22:24 The Airport Incident Revisited David tries to separate fact from fiction as he details the band’s chaotic departure from Manila. 24:03 Shaping History Andrew and David finish by discussing how, at the time, interviews with The Beatles helped cement stereotypes about the Philippines, despite a far more nuanced reality. Useful links https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLkh9JHyyHK-4RqQFXTCMb7djhlFgrVV1P&si=LWKYtXxmMSOEZo2V https://www.penguin.sg/book/you-wont-see-me/ https://bbdoguerrero.com/ https://dash.harvard.edu/entities/publication/2fb7a04a-cee3-4017-96e1-71c3f3e572a7 https://rollingstonephilippines.com/music/the-beatles-1966-visit-philippines-manila/ https://www.beatlesbible.com/1966/07/04/live-rizal-memorial-football-stadium-manila-philippines/ https://wspartners.bbc.com/episode/w3ct2zvk Don’t miss out We’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email: tanktalksasia@asiaworks.com And don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia. Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.

    27 min
  5. How Rugby Became Asia’s Biggest Sporting Festival: The Hong Kong Sevens at 50 | Jon Pallett and Jamie Farndale | Tank Talks Asia

    31 MAR

    How Rugby Became Asia’s Biggest Sporting Festival: The Hong Kong Sevens at 50 | Jon Pallett and Jamie Farndale | Tank Talks Asia

    In this episode of Tank Talks Asia, guest host Andrew Clark is joined by Jon Pallett and Jamie Farndale from Hong Kong China Rugby, to talk about the upcoming Hong Kong Sevens which is preparing to celebrate its 50th anniversary. They talk about what makes the Sevens such a thrilling global spectacle, the evolution of the tournament and how it continues to grow as both a sporting and cultural event. And they even divulge some top tips on which players and teams to watch out for this year! Featured Voices Host: Andrew Clark Guests: Jon Pallett, Head of Communications, Hong Kong China Rugby Jamie Farndale, General Manager Club Development & Sustainability, Hong Kong China Rugby Key takeawaysJon and Jamie talk about how the Hong Kong Rugby Sevens manages to create a festival-like atmosphere which differentiates it from other rugby tournaments.They say that the tournament’s evolution over the past 50 years has broadened its appeal to diverse and international audiences.They believe the move to Hong Kong’s Kai Tak stadium has enhanced the Sevens experience, at the same time as preserving traditions like the South Stand’s party vibe.They discuss how the Sevens plays a crucial role in grassroots rugby development, inspiring youth participation across Hong Kong and beyond.They say the Hong Kong Sevens is a bucket-list experience for sports fans worldwide. Chapter heads02:25 What is Rugby Sevens? Jamie explains how the game is much more fast-paced (and has less players) than a traditional rugby game. He also talks about how relentless and physically demanding Sevens matches are. 03:36 The Hong Kong Sevens Experience Jon says the tournament manages to combine sport, entertainment and fan engagement to create a really unique festival atmosphere. 04:20 Then vs Now: The Evolution of the Event They discuss how the Sevens has transformed over the years from an expat-focused event into a more inclusive, family-friendly global attraction. 07:12 The Legendary South Stand Jamie gives his take on how the South Stand has weathered the move to the new Sevens stadium at Kai Tak. 09:46 Beyond the Pitch: Growing the Game Jon talks about how Hong Kong China Rugby is inspiring youth participation in rugby and trying to expand the sport’s reach. 10:45 Economic Powerhouse Jon shares some insights into the economic impact of the Sevens and how it compares to other global sporting events. 12:03 A Bucket List Sporting Event Both Jon and Jamie say the Hong Kong Sevens is a must-visit experience for international fans. 13:08 Top Tourist Tips Jon and Jamie each reveal their must-see itinerary for visitors coming to Hong Kong. 16:41 Celebrating 50 Years at Kai Tak They talk about how the event’s 50th anniversary is being marked, with expanded programming and enhanced fan experiences, while also recognising its heritage. 19:07 The Future of Rugby in Hong Kong Jon and Jamie give their opinion on upcoming international competitions and share their long-term vision for the sport. 21:36 Who’s Going to Win? Jon and Jamie reveal who they think will come out on top at this year’s Hong Kong Sevens. Useful links https://hksevens.com/ https://hksevens.com/tickets/tickets https://hksevens.com/news/flying-in-for-the-hk-7s-here-are-7-things-you-need-to-know https://www.hkrugby.com/ https://www.svns.com/en/fixtures-and-results/svns https://www.kaitaksportspark.com.hk/venues-spaces/4 https://www.rugbyworldcup.com/2027/en https://www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/index.html Don’t miss out We’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email: tanktalksasia@asiaworks.com And don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia. Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.

    26 min
  6. Inside the Business of the World’s Fastest Growing Sport | Victor Cui | Tank Talks Asia

    25 MAR

    Inside the Business of the World’s Fastest Growing Sport | Victor Cui | Tank Talks Asia

    In this episode of Tank Talks Asia, Manisha Tank is joined by Global Sports Executive, Victor Cui, to talk about how he’s bringing the EPIC World Championship (the world’s first large-scale amateur international pickleball tournament) to Singapore and why pickleball’s accessibility is fueling its rapid growth. Drawing on nearly three decades of experience in sport, Victor also discusses the economics of sports participation, the evolving Olympic model, and why the next generation is redefining how sport fits into modern lifestyles. Featured Voices Host: Manisha Tank Guest: Victor Cui, Global Sports Executive, Co-founder of ONE Championship and founding partner of EPIC World Championship Key takeawaysVictor believes pickleball’s inclusivity is helping to drive its global rise, because it allows players of different ages, abilities, and backgrounds to compete together.He says pickleball surged in North America first, but that Asia will be the sport’s next growth wave due to its large population and accessible infrastructure.Victor explains how the EPIC World Championship introduces a poker-style prize pool that grows as more players enter the competition.He states that the future of sports events is experiential, which is why EPIC aims to offer food, music and other social experiences on the sidelines of the competition.Victor talks about how sport is evolving, as younger generations increasingly view sport and wellness as social and lifestyle activities, rather than purely competitive pursuits. Chapter heads 00:26 The Pickleball Boom An introduction to why one of the fastest-growing sports in the world is attracting both passionate fans and vocal critics in Singapore. 02:58 The Origin of EPIC Victor Cui explains how conversations with friends sparked the idea for the EPIC World Championship, and how players qualify. 05:52 A New Kind of Prize Pool He details the innovative poker-style model behind the prize purse, which grows as more players enter. 07:20 F1-Style Event Energy Victor says EPIC aims to be more than just a pickleball tournament, and talks about how the competition will combine sport with music, food, and festival-style entertainment. 09:01 When Sports Meet Urban Living He explains how EPIC is trying to balance pickleball’s popularity, at the same time as responding to concerns about noise and community impact. 11:06 The Business of Participation Sports Victor notes that low barriers to entry and being able to use shared infrastructure make pickleball economically very attractive. 14:29 Why Youth Sports Culture Differs by Region He reflects on how attitudes toward youth sports differ between North America and Asia. 16:31 Do the Olympics Still Matter? Victor discusses how the Olympic model is evolving to deliver legacy value and stronger commercial partnerships. 20:18 The Integrity Challenge in Modern Sports He says the growth of sports betting is changing the risks and governance of professional competition. 22:14 More Irons in the Fire? To conclude, Manisha asks Victor what we can expect from him next. Useful links https://pickleball.com/ https://epicworldchampionship.com/ https://www.singaporepickleball.com.sg/ https://www.ft.com/content/e0d8801b-e8f6-4b58-9d2d-814469f358fe https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/politics/50-badmintonpickleball-courts-to-be-built-in-singapore-over-next-5-years https://www.onefc.com/ https://olympic.ca/ https://www.the-wolfpack.com/ https://gastrobeats.com.sg/ https://thesnowleague.com/ Don’t miss out We’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email: tanktalksasia@asiaworks.com And don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia. Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.

    24 min
  7. The World Is In Crisis, So... Where Should You Live? | Parag Khanna | Tank Talks Asia

    18 MAR

    The World Is In Crisis, So... Where Should You Live? | Parag Khanna | Tank Talks Asia

    In this episode of Tank Talks Asia, Manisha Tank is joined by global strategist, author and AlphaGeo founder, Parag Khanna, to discuss climate adaptation, geopolitical stability and the future of AI. Their conversation also covers why water scarcity is a crisis hiding in plain sight, and why attracting young people could be the ultimate measure of national success, along with what this all means for where to live, invest and build a future. Featured Voices Host: Manisha Tank Guest: Parag Khanna, Author; Founder and CEO, AlphaGeo Key takeawaysParag says that premium insurance spikes and “uninsurable” zones are reshaping property markets.He believes water is the next global fault line and he identifies areas of drought, where there’s poor infrastructure and dense populations as future crisis zones. Parag says Europe dominates AlphaGeo’s “Periodic Table of States”, which ranks countries by their strength, stateness and overall stability.He warns that population decline, which will have profound economic and geopolitical consequences, is coming faster than many people realize.Parag believes that the countries attracting young people will be tomorrow’s winners because they are the ones doing most things right. Chapter heads02:45 The Moment That Changed Everything Parag talks about how a trip to the Berlin Wall when he was 12 years old sparked a lifelong interest in geopolitics. 06:51 Climate Risk Has a Price Tag Parag believes that rising insurance premiums are a very clear signal that markets are repricing climate danger. 07:58 The Cape Coral Warning He explains how a Florida boomtown became a case study in uninsurability and collapsing housing demand. 09:40 The Periodic Table of States Parag discusses what AlphaGeo’s data-driven framework, which ranks countries by strength, stateness and stability, reveals. 12:07 Water: The Crisis We’re Ignoring? He outlines why drought risk, poor adaptation capacity and population density are a volatile mix. 14:47 Are We Really “In This Together”? Parag states that climate mitigation may be global, but adaptation is still very local. 16:57 Fewer Humans, Different Map He goes on to discuss why demographic collapse and political realignment could reshape the global map within the next 50 years. 20:16 AI: Smarter Than You? Parag gives his take on the growing power of AI and what he thinks it’s bad at. 21:26 Quickfire Questions Manisha quizzes Parag on everything from the dollar, to robots, Mars, and the cities he believes may no longer exist in future decades. 24:50 The Ultimate Future Test Parag says attracting young people is the simplest, most powerful measure of a nation’s long-term success. Useful links https://www.paragkhanna.com/ https://alphageo.ai/ https://alphageo.ai/ptos/ https://futuremap.io/ https://www.wsj.com/real-estate/florida-cape-coal-home-prices-3f64a0df?gaa_at=eafs&gaa_n=AWEtsqcHaPjcD_jsdgyhm2r-y80Z865UalG0t_cj99FSYde9CI8L-X0bKVe3yjlhYqQ%3D&gaa_ts=699f687b&gaa_sig=ywrW49bLpxVDUAb9e1tPqaaVbay2s4Nz7ZKLPP3WOZknd-4EC0NHxcuGeEpinQwYm2Lrn6mVvxLSBIMXrMxEHg%3D%3D https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412021005614 https://www.oecd.org/en/publications/2025/06/global-drought-outlook_28488e98/full-report/towards-a-drier-world_6f10e2e5.html https://www.roseville.ca.us/ Don’t miss out We’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email: tanktalksasia@asiaworks.com And don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia. Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.

    29 min
  8. Asia’s Fertility Crisis | Sastya Wardini | Tank Talks Asia

    11 MAR

    Asia’s Fertility Crisis | Sastya Wardini | Tank Talks Asia

    In this episode of Tank Talks Asia, Manisha Tank is joined by Sastya Wardani, the CEO of Femtech Ovy Health, to discuss some of the taboos surrounding reproductive and hormonal health in Asia. They cover topics including PCOS and the role stress hormones can play in male and female infertility. Manisha and Sastya also talk about what happens when a country’s fertility rate drops below replacement levels. Featured Voices Host: Manisha Tank Guest: Sastya Wardani, CEO and Co-founder, Ovy Health Key takeawaysSastya says infertility is rising fast across the globe and is now estimated to affect 1 in 6 people, but she believes this number could be even higher in parts of Asia.She says fertility challenges don’t just affect women, in her experience it’s now a 50:50 split between men and women.She explains how hormones can affect everything, showing up as brain fog, mood swings, fatigue, fat storage, and hair loss.Sastya believes early testing is key, with simple hormone tests able to provide crucial insights before problems may escalate.She talks about the economic consequences and long-term societal impact of falling fertility, highlighting some Asian countries which are already below the 2:1 replacement rate. Chapter heads 02:55 Breaking the Menstruation Myth Sastya addresses the stigmas that surround menstruation in some cultures and says outdated beliefs still shape women’s health experiences. 06:18 PCOS: The Silent Disruptor She says that PCOS affects around 1 in 10 women, but is frequently underdiagnosed and misunderstood. 08:16 A Hormone Information Gap? Manisha asks Sastya why it’s common to see leaflets about diabetes at Doctors clinics, but yet information about hormones seems to be less readily available. 10:50 Egg Reserve Reality Sastya talks about AMH, which she says is a crucial fertility marker, but many women have never heard of it. 12:16 The Fertility Time Bomb in Asia She notes that replacement fertility rates are falling in parts of Asia, which raises demographic and economic concerns. 14:37 The Male Fertility Taboo Sastya says factors that can affect male fertility, such as working with a laptop on the knee or even the type of clothes worn, are rarely discussed. 17:24 The Importance of Getting Checked She explores rising infertility rates and says that understanding hormonal health from puberty is essential to safeguard future reproductive health. 21:30 The Stress Hormone Sastya explains how our bodies release cortisol when we are stressed, which can push us into fight or flight mode and have an adverse effect on fertility and overall health. 23:58 Be Your Own Advocate She says we need to take matters into our own hands when it comes to our overall health and have more open conversations. Useful links https://www.ovyhealth.com/ https://www.euromonitor.com/article/womens-health-in-asia-pacific-adapting-solutions-to-local-consumer-needs-and-lifestyles#:~:text=Needs%20and%20Lifestyles-,Women's%20Health%20in%20Asia%20Pacific:%20Adapting%20Solutions%20to%20Local%20Consumer,traditional%20regimes%20to%20relieve%20discomfort. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/infertility https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/polycystic-ovary-syndrome https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/male-infertility https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/SP.DYN.TFRT.IN https://asia.nikkei.com/economy/demography/japan-s-number-of-babies-born-marks-record-low-for-10th-straight-year https://www.uobgroup.com/assets/web-resources/research/pdf/MN_250925A.pdf https://www.bca.co.id/-/media/Feature/Report/File/S8/Laporan-Riset-Ekonomi/2025/12/2026-indonesia-economic-outlook-inching-towards-higher-growth-19-december-2025.pdf https://www.towardshealthcare.com/insights/fertility-market-sizing https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/infertility-drugs-market https://www.weforum.org/publications/women-s-health-investment-outlook-2026/ https://www.singstat.gov.sg/find-data/search-by-theme/population/births-and-fertility/latest-data https://www.population.gov.sg/files/media-centre/publications/Population_in_Brief_2025.pdf https://www.hcamag.com/asia/news/general/the-cost-of-ignoring-fertility-39-of-employees-would-consider-leaving-their-job/558052 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12537526/ https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/64880/lifestyle-and-environmental-factors-and-human-fertility/magazine https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-flo-health-study-suggests-women-could-get-endometriosis-diagnoses-more-than-50-sooner-302700748.html https://www.weforum.org/publications/closing-the-women-s-health-gap-a-1-trillion-opportunity-to-improve-lives-and-economies/ Don’t miss out We’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email: tanktalksasia@asiaworks.com And don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia. Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.

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About

Against a backdrop of booms, busts, and geopolitical shifts, Asia continues its quiet and confident rise. More than ever, new and colourful Asian voices are bursting onto the global stage, from the world of business, tech, media, music, politics, sports, art, and culture. Hosted by acclaimed broadcaster and interviewer Manisha Tank, Tank Talks Asia meets the humans helping to drive this dynamic region forward.

Information

  • Creator
    AsiaWorks
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    22
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 AsiaWorks
  • Show Website
    Tank Talks Asia