The Adrian Tan Show

Adrian Tan
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This is my podcast, where I speak with folks to explore the nuances of modern work and its idiosyncrasies. Beyond just the enablers and vendors transforming this space, I will also include intimate conversations with people navigating newfound career pivots. They have successfully transitioned to their new careers, and I hope to distil their ups and downs in this unstructured journey so the rest of us can learn from their best practices.

  1. 166 - Why Florence Foo QUIT Her Job & Launched FOUR Businesses!

    JUL 28

    166 - Why Florence Foo QUIT Her Job & Launched FOUR Businesses!

    In this revealing episode, Florence Foo shares her incredible journey of quitting her corporate job while pregnant with her second child to launching four successful businesses. From starting a boutique digital marketing agency to organising large-scale events, introducing sunscreen dispensers on demand, and exploring groundbreaking LED technology, Florence navigates the rollercoaster ride of entrepreneurship. Discover her insights on time management, overcoming challenges, and the strategies behind her diverse business ventures. Don't miss this inspiring story of ambition, resilience, and innovation! --- This episode is brought to you by Deel⁩, the all-in-one platform simplifying global team management with payroll, HR, IT, and compliance solutions, trusted by over 35,000 businesses worldwide. Learn more at ⁠⁠https://deel.com/adriantan⁠⁠. 00:00 Leaving the Corporate World 01:11 Introducing Florence 01:32 Florence's Career Journey 02:12 Starting a Digital Marketing Agency 05:00 Expanding into Event Organising 08:59 Venturing into Sunscreen Business 10:26 Exploring LED Lighting 11:51 Balancing Multiple Businesses and Family 17:34 Managing Work-Life Balance 18:22 Health Impacts of Overworking 19:44 Lessons from Nine Years in Business 20:09 Starting as a Solopreneur 21:35 Dealing with Client Challenges 25:36 Prospecting for New Business 27:28 Adapting to Digitalisation 28:08 Advice to My Younger Self 28:53 Future Plans and Contact Information --- Where to find Florence Foo: LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/florence-foo/ Oakwood Media: http://www.oakwood.sg Where to find Adrian: LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/adriantanck/⁠⁠ Website: ⁠⁠adriantan.com.sg⁠⁠ 📕 No More Bosses: https://amzn.asia/d/abmPxU6

    30 min
  2. 165 - Eric Tan EXPOSES The Harsh Truths About Starting Your Own Business

    JUL 6

    165 - Eric Tan EXPOSES The Harsh Truths About Starting Your Own Business

    In this eye-opening episode, Eric Tan, a seasoned entrepreneur and chartered accountant, reveals the staggering realities and misconceptions of starting your own business. From the relentless grind and overwhelming stress to the illusion of having more control over your time, Eric shares his journey from working for Pricewaterhouse to running his own successful accounting and consulting firms. Tune in to uncover the brutal challenges faced by new businesses, the importance of setting realistic goals, and why you should think twice before diving into entrepreneurship. Plus, get invaluable insights on the best business structures and tax considerations to ensure your startup's success. This is a must-watch for aspiring entrepreneurs! --- Eric Tan is a Singapore Chartered Accountant and Certified Management Consultant, best known as the co-founder and Managing Director of The Resource Group Pte Ltd. With a career spanning over 15 years in finance, business advisory, and human capital development, Eric has played a pivotal role in equipping small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with the expertise and resources needed for growth and regional expansion --- This episode is brought to you by Deel , the all-in-one platform simplifying global team management with payroll, HR, IT, and compliance solutions, trusted by over 35,000 businesses worldwide. Learn more at ⁠⁠https://deel.com/adriantan⁠. 00:00 Introduction 01:08 Meet Eric: A Multifaceted Professional 02:21 Eric's Career Journey: From Audit to Consulting 03:21 The Decision to Go Independent 04:49 Balancing Family and Entrepreneurship 06:51 The Reality of Being Your Own Boss 11:20 Navigating the Challenges of Entrepreneurship 20:24 The Changing Business Landscape 25:50 Understanding F&B Business Failures 26:12 Case Study: My Cousin's F&B Journey 27:55 Lessons from Starting a Recruitment Business 28:41 The Importance of Accurate Financial Projections 29:20 Acquiring and Retaining Consulting Clients 30:43 Networking Strategies for Business Growth 34:20 Choosing the Right Business Structure 38:12 Tax Considerations for Different Business Entities 40:19 Common Accounting Mistakes to Avoid 44:30 Final Thoughts and Contact Information --- Where to find Eric Tan: LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-tan-15034111/ The Resource Group: https://theresourcegroup.asia/ Acce Advisory: https://acceadvisory.services/ Where to find Adrian: LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/adriantanck/⁠⁠ Website: ⁠⁠adriantan.com.sg⁠⁠ 📕 No More Bosses: https://amzn.asia/d/abmPxU6

    45 min
  3. 164 - From Gang Fights to Gender Fluidity | Shawn Lim's Journey of Authenticity & Resilience

    JUN 28

    164 - From Gang Fights to Gender Fluidity | Shawn Lim's Journey of Authenticity & Resilience

    Join Shawn Lim as he opens up about his transformative journey from being arrested as a teenager to becoming a successful content creator and podcaster. Discover why he prefers the term 'content creator' over 'influencer' and learn about his platform, Human Algorithm, which aims to promote authenticity in the age of AI. In this eye-opening podcast, Shawn shares deeply personal stories for his neurodiverse daughter and offers insights on how to navigate life's struggles while staying true to oneself. Don't miss this compelling conversation filled with valuable lessons on vulnerability, authenticity, and the art of being human. --- Shawn Lim is a Singapore-based media entrepreneur, journalist, and advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). He is best known as the founder and creator of Human Algorithm, a storytelling-led media platform and podcast that spotlights underrepresented voices at the intersection of business, technology, media, and DEI --- This episode is brought to you by Deel, the all-in-one platform simplifying global team management with payroll, HR, IT, and compliance solutions, trusted by over 35,000 businesses worldwide. Learn more at ⁠⁠https://deel.com/adriantan⁠⁠. 00:00 Introduction: Content Creator vs Influencer 01:14 The Human Algorithm Platform 01:29 Podcasting Journey and Background 02:13 Transition from Corporate to Independent 04:57 Balancing Work and Family Life 16:04 Building a Personal Brand on LinkedIn 20:12 The CEO's Storytelling Journey 21:04 The Importance of Authenticity 21:49 Balancing Authenticity and Oversharing 23:52 Writing with a Target Audience in Mind 26:07 The Human Algorithm on Substack 28:16 Leveraging AI Tools for Content Creation 32:11 Creating a Content System 35:07 Masterclass and Final Thoughts --- Where to find Shawn Lim: LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/mediumshawn/ Human Algorithm: https://humanalgorithm.substack.com/ Where to find Adrian: LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/adriantanck/⁠⁠ Website: ⁠⁠adriantan.com.sg⁠⁠ 📕 No More Bosses: https://amzn.asia/d/abmPxU6

    37 min
  4. 163 - She SKIPPED COLLEGE to Build a Startup During the Pandemic! Amanda Cua Reveals Her Journey

    JUN 22

    163 - She SKIPPED COLLEGE to Build a Startup During the Pandemic! Amanda Cua Reveals Her Journey

    In this captivating episode, Adrian and Amanda Cua discuss her unexpected decision to skip college and embark on an entrepreneurial journey during the pandemic. Amanda shares how she utilised a gap year to create a successful newsletter company, BackScoop, in Southeast Asia. She delves into the challenges she faced, the strategies she used to grow her subscriber base, her thoughts on the media landscape, and her experiences with impostor syndrome. Tune in to learn about Amanda's inspiring journey and get valuable insights on building a startup from scratch. --- Amanda Cua is a Filipino entrepreneur known for founding Backscoop, a popular newsletter focused on Southeast Asian tech and business news. She started the newsletter after deciding not to pursue university, aiming to provide easily digestible information on startups in the region. Backscoop has gained a significant following, including investors and startup founders. Cua has also hosted the podcast "One More Scoop" and has been featured on Forbes' "30 Under 30 Asia" list. --- This episode is brought to you by Deel‬, the all-in-one platform simplifying global team management with payroll, HR, IT, and compliance solutions, trusted by over 35,000 businesses worldwide. Learn more at ⁠⁠https://deel.com/adriantan⁠⁠. 00:00 Introduction 01:39 Who is Amanda Cua 02:00 The Evolution of BackScoop 02:48 Challenges and Inspirations 03:32 Skipping College for Entrepreneurship 04:11 The Decision Between UK and US Education 05:05 First Steps into the Startup World 08:16 Building a Network from Zero 11:23 Growth Hacking Strategies 14:16 Newsletter Evolution and Team Challenges 17:00 Challenges in Content Creation 17:59 Dealing with Imposter Syndrome 22:19 Daily Routine and Health Focus 24:00 Impact of Moving to Singapore 26:37 Opportunities in New Media 33:13 Advice for Aspiring Founders --- Where to find Amanda Cua: LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-cua/ BackScoop: https://backscoop.com Where to find Adrian: LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/adriantanck/⁠⁠ Website: ⁠⁠adriantan.com.sg⁠⁠ 📕 No More Bosses: https://amzn.asia/d/abmPxU6

    36 min
  5. 162 - From Silicon Valley Burnout to Podcasting Success: Sarah Wong's Journey!

    JUN 14

    162 - From Silicon Valley Burnout to Podcasting Success: Sarah Wong's Journey!

    In this special in-studio episode of The Adrian Tan Show, I sit down with Sarah Wong, a former Silicon Valley professional, now a podcast host, a consultant, and a mom of two. Sarah shares her personal journey from experiencing career burnout, transitioning to motherhood, and shifting to a portfolio career. She also talks about her podcast ⁨@makeitwork.podcast⁩ which focuses on inspiring stories of modern working moms in Asia. Sarah covers her work as a venture partner, a real estate licensee, and her heavy involvement in mentorship programs aimed at helping women in tech and leadership. Tune in to discover her strategies for balancing professional and personal life, her insights on overcoming career transitions, and her unique approach to integrating rest into her busy schedule. --- Sarah Wong is a mother of two and the host of Make It Work, a podcast sharing honest, inspiring stories of modern moms in Asia who have redefined success on their own terms. The show was born after Sarah’s return to Singapore from Silicon Valley, where she experienced burnout after six fast-paced years in tech. It is now one of Singapore's top podcasts for working mothers. Today, she leads a portfolio career as a Venture Partner at Heal Venture Lab, a regional health tech accelerator, while also supporting her family’s real estate business. Sarah is a long-time advocate for women’s mentorship, having founded the RockIT Women Mentor Program in the U.S., and currently mentors mothers returning to work through Return Ready. She holds an MBA from INSEAD and has lived and worked in Singapore, the U.S., and India. Some fun facts: Sarah is married to a pastor (could be a podcast on its own!) and she loves both heights (rock climbing) and depths (swimming). --- This episode is brought to you by Deel⁩ ‬, the all-in-one platform simplifying global team management with payroll, HR, IT, and compliance solutions, trusted by over 35,000 businesses worldwide. Learn more at ⁠⁠https://deel.com/adriantan⁠⁠. --- 00:00 Introduction and Personal Background 01:15 Welcome to the Adrian Tan Show 01:44 Meet Sarah: A Modern Working Mom 02:39 Sarah's Career Journey and Portfolio 04:30 The Shift to a Portfolio Career 06:50 Balancing Career and Motherhood 13:39 Starting the Podcast: Make It Work 17:27 Podcast Production Insights 22:57 Exploring the Power of AI 23:04 Mentorship for Women in Tech and Leadership 25:00 Starting a Mentorship Program 26:19 Motherhood and Career Mentorship 27:49 Networking and Career Advice 33:37 Managing Time and Energy 43:37 Advice to Younger Self 46:52 Where to Find More --- Where to find Sarah Wong: LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/swongx/ Youtube: ⁨Make It Work Podcast⁩ ⁠Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/makeitwork.podcast/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/78ulY0B27nYxGB6jPCABPI?si=abfc48d037d943be ⁠TikTok⁠: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@makeitwork.podcast⁠ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/make-it-work/id1701442085 Where to find Adrian: LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/adriantanck/⁠⁠ Website: ⁠⁠adriantan.com.sg⁠⁠

    47 min
  6. 161 - Singaporean's INSANE Story of Surviving Corporate Espionage in China! (ft. Jason Ong)

    JUN 7

    161 - Singaporean's INSANE Story of Surviving Corporate Espionage in China! (ft. Jason Ong)

    In this episode, Adrian brings you an unmissable conversation with Jason Ong, a Singaporean who has been living and working in China for the past 18 years. Tune in as Jason shares his captivating journey from studying in the United States to navigating the corporate world in China. Hear about the jaw-dropping tale of firing a Deputy GM while dealing with the local mafia, and the rigorous challenges of running a startup. This episode is jam-packed with insightful advice for companies looking to explore the Chinese market, especially regarding the importance of company seals, trademarks, and choosing the right partners. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business professional, you won't want to miss this one! 🔥 --- Jason is a pragmatic and results-driven international executive with 20 years of expertise in digital strategies, business growth, and operational improvement. His leadership experience spans start-up, scale-up, multinational corporation, and global consulting firms, with a strong working knowledge across functions in diverse sectors such as retail, consumer products, medical devices, consumer health, and offshore & marine. Jason is currently founder and Managing Director at LION Advisory, a cross-border advisory firm helping companies navigate the China market while helping Chinese companies expand globally. He is also the COO of a multi-family office as well as a mentor with Singapore Leaders Network (SGLN). Jason embraces challenges and relishes operating in new environments. He is also an aspiring author and baking enthusiast. --- This episode is brought to you by Deel‬, the all-in-one platform simplifying global team management with payroll, HR, IT, and compliance solutions, trusted by over 35,000 businesses worldwide. Learn more at ⁠⁠https://deel.com/adriantan⁠⁠. --- 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:47 Jason's Background and Journey to China 02:56 Life and Challenges in the US 04:49 Transition to China and Early Experiences 09:50 Consulting and Career Shifts in China 11:11 Managing a Manufacturing Plant in China 14:13 Startup Ventures and Consulting Return 21:11 The Importance of Company Seals in China 24:29 Reflections on Management and Business Practices 27:57 Going Independent and Writing a Novel 29:24 Challenges of Going Independent in China 30:10 Starting a Cross-Border Advisory Firm 30:42 Navigating the Chinese Market 34:44 Core Services for Companies Entering China 37:34 Opportunities and Challenges in the Chinese Market 43:06 Protecting Your Brand in China 47:30 Daily Life of an Independent Consultant 49:42 Final Thoughts and Advice --- Where to find Jason Ong: LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonong24/ Where to find Adrian: LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/adriantanck/⁠⁠ Website: ⁠⁠adriantan.com.sg⁠⁠

    54 min
  7. 160 - REVEALED: The Shocking Truth About Imposter Syndrome And Creativity with Jorge Thauby!

    MAY 31

    160 - REVEALED: The Shocking Truth About Imposter Syndrome And Creativity with Jorge Thauby!

    In this episode of The Adrian Tan Show, we dive deep into the world of creativity and imposter syndrome with acclaimed creative director turned conversation director, Jorge Thauby. Jorge has worked with global brands and won prestigious awards like the Lion Award, yet he still struggles with feeling 'not good enough.' Watch as Jorge shares his journey from Chile to Dubai and finally Singapore, discussing how he helps unlock creativity and leadership potential in others. Don't miss his insights on the importance of separating oneself from their work, the transformative power of play and meditation, and the critical role of emotional awareness in creative processes. Join us for an eye-opening conversation that might just change how you view creativity and leadership forever! --- Jorge Thauby is a seasoned creative professional and ontological coach with over two decades of experience in advertising and human-centred design. Currently based in Singapore, he is the Founder & Director of The Coach for Creators and a Senior Associate at Studio Dojo, where he focuses on nurturing creative talent and facilitating team growth. Previously, Jorge held executive creative director roles at leading agencies such as VMLY&R and Geometry Global, where he led high-impact, award-winning campaigns for global brands including Qatar Airways, Ford, and Unilever, earning recognition at prestigious festivals such as Cannes Lions and the Effies. --- This episode is brought to you by Deel⁩ ‬, the all-in-one platform simplifying global team management with payroll, HR, IT, and compliance solutions, trusted by over 35,000 businesses worldwide. Learn more at ⁠https://deel.com/adriantan⁠. --- 00:00 Opening 01:12 Introduction to the Guest: Jorge 01:45 Jorge's Career Journey and Achievements 04:48 The Role of a Creative Director 09:13 Transition to Coaching and Personal Growth 15:52 Challenges and Insights in Creative Leadership 25:53 The Importance of Meditation and Self-Reflection 29:39 Diving into Deep Reflections and Spirituality 31:58 Shifting Strategies: Working with Smaller Agencies 33:21 The Role of Creativity in Various Industries 35:10 The Power of Play in Creativity 37:17 Creating Sustainable Creative Dynamics 38:31 The Importance of Fun and Play in Daily Life 46:56 Final Thoughts and Contact Information --- Where to find Jorge Thauby: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jorgethauby/ Where to find Adrian: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adriantanck/⁠ Website: ⁠adriantan.com.sg⁠

    59 min
  8. 159 - From Civil Engineer to Award-Winning Actor: The Extraordinary Journey of Michael Chua

    MAY 24

    159 - From Civil Engineer to Award-Winning Actor: The Extraordinary Journey of Michael Chua

    In this special episode of The Adrian Tan Show, I sit down with Michael Chua⁩ - a seasoned technologist and award-winning actor. Michael shares his unique journey from studying civil engineering in Australia, working as a programmer in London, to becoming a consultant in cybersecurity across 19 countries. Along the way, he discovered a passion for acting which led him to win multiple awards and captivate millions of viewers with viral videos. Tune in to hear how Michael navigated the challenges of freelancing, the importance of recognizing opportunities, and the pivotal moments that sparked his multiple successful careers. --- Michael Chua is a Singaporean actor, director, and casting director who made a remarkable career transition from technology consulting to the performing arts at age 50. He has appeared in over 400 productions, including the viral short film "Gift" and award-winning features like "Ilo Ilo," which won the Camera d'Or at Cannes and a Golden Horse Award. Chua has earned multiple accolades, such as Best Actor and Best Film at the Singapore International Film Festival, and is recognized by younger audiences for his roles in popular YouTube series like Titan Academy. His acting is noted for its depth and authenticity, drawing on his rich life experience and global perspective. Before his acting career, Chua spent decades as a technology consultant, working across Europe, Asia, and Australia, and managing high-profile cybersecurity incidents. He has founded successful tech businesses in the Asia-Pacific region and continues to advise startups and companies on digital security and cloud management. Currently, he is an adjunct lecturer at the University of Newcastle’s Singapore campus, teaching acting and media while also serving as a trainer and coach in both educational and corporate settings. --- This episode is brought to you by Deel⁩ ‬, the all-in-one platform simplifying global team management with payroll, HR, IT, and compliance solutions, trusted by over 35,000 businesses worldwide. Learn more at ⁠https://deel.com/adriantan⁠. --- 00:00 Introduction 01:27 Welcome to the Adrian Tan Show 02:03 Meet Michael Chua: Actor and Technologist 02:52 Michael's Journey: From Civil Engineering to Cybersecurity 05:32 The Challenges of Freelancing Abroad 12:24 Transitioning to Acting 14:42 The Spark of Opportunity 19:34 The Evolution of Freelancing 28:34 The Decision to Return Home 29:21 Advice for Aspiring Freelancers 30:51 Opportunities and Challenges in Singapore 34:28 Balancing Multiple Roles 36:47 Navigating the Freelance Market 44:55 Handling Office Politics as a Freelancer 50:04 The Importance of Emotional Resonance 52:41 Conclusion and Final Thoughts --- Where to find Michael Chua: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jupilier/ Hentak Kaki: https://youtu.be/Dh2ormh7Oic Gift: https://youtu.be/1DUYlHZsZfc Where to find Adrian: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adriantanck/⁠ Website: ⁠adriantan.com.sg⁠

    54 min
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About

This is my podcast, where I speak with folks to explore the nuances of modern work and its idiosyncrasies. Beyond just the enablers and vendors transforming this space, I will also include intimate conversations with people navigating newfound career pivots. They have successfully transitioned to their new careers, and I hope to distil their ups and downs in this unstructured journey so the rest of us can learn from their best practices.

Information

  • Creator
    Adrian Tan
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    173
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Adrian Tan
  • Show Website
    The Adrian Tan Show