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

    3 DAYS AGO

    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
  2. 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
  3. 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
  4. 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
  5. 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.

    26 min
  6. Iran - What's at Stake? | Steve Okun & Sam Olsen | Tank Talks Asia

    4 MAR

    Iran - What's at Stake? | Steve Okun & Sam Olsen | Tank Talks Asia

    As tensions escalate between Iran, Israel and the United States, the implications stretch far beyond the Middle East. Energy markets, global trade routes and geopolitical alignments are all being tested — and Asia will feel the impact. In this special live episode, Manisha Tank is joined by: Steve Okun – CEO APAC Advisors, a specialist in US–Asia relationsSam Olsen – Geopolitical analyst focusing on global power dynamics Together they discuss: • What has happened in the last 24 hours • How the crisis could reshape global power dynamics • Why the Strait of Hormuz matters for Asian economies • How China and other Asian powers may respond • What businesses and policymakers in Asia should be watching next

    28 min
  7. Is the West Declining? | Samir Puri & Joel Ng | Tank Talks Asia

    26 FEB

    Is the West Declining? | Samir Puri & Joel Ng | Tank Talks Asia

    In this episode of Tank Talks Asia, Manisha Tank is joined by Dr Samir Puri, author of “Westlessness”, and Joel Ng, editor of “The Dragon’s Emerging Order” to discuss whether the era of western dominance is coming to an end and, if so, what replaces it? Their conversation covers everything from Mark Carney’s headline-making Davos speech and the global impact of Donald Trump’s presidency, to China’s multilateral rise, the conflict in Ukraine, and the future of the UN. Featured Voices Host: Manisha Tank Guests: Samir Puri, Inaugural Director, Centre for Global Governance and Security, Chatham House, Author and Former UK Diplomat Joel Ng, Senior Fellow and Head of Centre for Multilateralism Studies, S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies Key takeawaysSamir and Joel assert that the global centre of gravity is shifting away from the west, as states adapt through multi-alignment rather than bloc politics.They suggest China has been preparing for this moment, having built multilateral influence to position it centrally within this emerging order.They say a shift towards regional security responsibilities is underway and that the US may not want to remain the world’s security guarantor.They discuss the possibility that the war in Ukraine may end pragmatically, not ideally.Samir and Joel talk about how the UN, which is set to appoint a new secretary general this year, is facing an existential test as the need for multilateralism grows.They touch on whether climate cooperation may become a focal point for renewed global alignment, especially between Europe and China.Chapter heads02:01 A Defining Speech at Davos Samir and Joel discuss how Mark Carney’s address at the World Economic Forum signalled a reset in global alignments and even echoed historic moments from the past. 05:50 Hedging as a Viable Strategy Samir believes that Asian multi-alignment is becoming a model for western powers navigating US-China rivalry. 07:10 China’s Multilateral Architecture Joel explains how Beijing has been building platforms, partnerships and institutional influence for decades. 08:12 Who Polices the World Now? Samir and Joel give their views on the limits of American security guarantees and the rise of regional responsibility. 11:50 Ukraine and the Limits of Idealism Samir says he thinks the war in Ukraine may end in pragmatic compromise rather than total victory. 17:11 Is the UN Still Fit for Purpose? Samir and Joel debate what role the UN still has to play in a world of great power rivalry. 20:03 Climate in the Shadows They discuss how the green agenda risks being buried and explore the potential for greater collaboration between China and Europe. 23:25 Looking to the Future Samir and Joel weigh in on where multilateralism might be headed and why there are reasons to stay optimistic. Useful links https://www.samirpuri.com/ https://www.hachette.co.uk/titles/samir-puri/westlessness/9781399722636/ https://www.worldscientific.com/worldscibooks/10.1142/14463?srsltid=AfmBOop57P3ns25wtQ_Y7t2kJiVbpjeAic081TOSrXBC3ZMOj7jzmESf#t=aboutBook https://www.chathamhouse.org/ https://rsis.edu.sg/research/cms/ https://www.weforum.org/ https://www.un.org/un80-initiative/en https://asean.org/ 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
  8. Can Asia Lead the World? Power, Protest and Belief | Razeen Sally | Tank Talks Asia

    17 FEB

    Can Asia Lead the World? Power, Protest and Belief | Razeen Sally | Tank Talks Asia

    In this episode of Tank Talks Asia, Manisha Tank sits down with economist, author, and travel writer, Razeen Sally. Razeen shares his insights on the rise of Asia and the challenges of leadership in the modern world. Razeen also talks about how he views Buddhism as both a unifying and evolving force across the continent. And he reflects on his own Buddhist journey, which includes an epic 42-day silent Vipassana meditation retreat. Featured Voices Host: Manisha Tank Guest: Razeen Sally, Economist and Author Key takeawaysRazeen talks about how the rise of Asia is helping to reshape politics, economics, and culture, but he says that while this rapid modernization brings opportunities, it also comes with spiritual costs.He believes youth-led uprisings in Asia often reflect frustrations with the elites and the uneven distribution of economic opportunity.Razeen says social media amplifies biases and creates political vacuums that can be filled by populist or inexperienced leaders.He discusses how Buddhism has historically acted as a unifying force in Asia, but says that today it is fragmented, politicized, and can be tied to nationalistic agendas.Razeen believes that some reform within Buddhist societies could make the tradition more relevant to the 21st century. Chapter heads00:30 Who is Razeen Sally? Manisha introduces Razeen, highlighting his global expertize, travel writing, and how he splits his time between Sri Lanka and Wales. 03:05 Politics Shaped by Childhood Razeen shares a formative experience he had as a child, which sparked his lifelong interest in politics, current affairs, and understanding the world. 04:43 Losing and Finding Faith He talks about losing his faith in university, but later rediscovering the importance of spirituality. 05:25 Why Gen Z is Rising in Asia Razeen discusses the Gen Z protests in Asia, the impact of modernization, and the challenges of trying to break elites. 07:05 Social Media: Power or Problem? He says social media can both inform and polarize, and highlights the influence it can have on populist movements. 09:28 Can Leaders Be Trusted? Razeen shares his take on leadership, and why he believes politics and businesses often fall short in both the East and West. 14:45 Buddhism’s Journey Across Asia He explains the historical and cultural evolution of Buddhism, from its origins in India to its spread across Asia and the West. 18:00 Buddhism in China Razeen examines the revival of Buddhism in China and the role he believes religion can play in maintaining social and political stability. 21:40 A Unifying Path? He discusses Buddhism’s historical role in uniting Asian empires, but says that today it is often fragmented and divided. 25:10 Modern Life Meets Ancient Wisdom Razeen concludes by exploring how modernization can open up opportunities for spiritual reform and discusses the future relevance of Buddhism in Asia. Useful links https://x.com/razeensally?lang=en https://ecipe.org/person/razeen-sally/ https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1157196.Razeen_Sally https://www.britannica.com/topic/Buddhism https://www.dhamma.org/en-US/index 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
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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
    19
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 AsiaWorks
  • Show Website
    Tank Talks Asia

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