Tank Talks Asia

AsiaWorks

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Society & Culture

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.

Oct 21

Follow the Money: Where Investors Are Betting on Asia's Future | Milken Summit | Tank Talks Asia

In this special episode of Tank Talks Asia, recorded in Singapore following the Milken Institute Asia Summit, Manisha Tank is joined by colleagues Andrew Clark and Yeen Chong to explore the big ideas shaping Asia’s investment landscape. From shifting global capital flows and AI, to personalised cancer vaccines and affordable healthcare, the team speaks to investors, entrepreneurs and policy makers about how investment is evolving to meet the needs and challenges of a changing world. Featured Voices Hosts: Manisha Tank, Andrew Clark, Yeen Chong Guests: Paul Thoppil, High Commissioner for Canada in SingaporeTristan Thompson, NBA Player; Founding Partner, Introduction.comShannon Cheung, Chairman and CEO, Averest CapitalManoj Kumar, Founder, Social AlphaCarol Fong, Group CEO, CGS International Securities Limited Key takeawaysPaul Thoppil says that as geopolitical relationships and trade patterns shift, Canada and other markets are looking to attract investment by offering greater diversification and trusted governance for major projects.Tristan Thompson explains that athletes, entertainers and other influential figures are becoming alternative sources of capital for startups, bringing visibility, personal brands and storytelling alongside their financial investment.Shannon Cheung discusses how AI, genome sequencing, mRNA technology and advanced cell culture are creating new possibilities for personalised cancer vaccines, while raising important questions about access to emerging medical treatments.Manoj Kumar states that patient, philanthropic and early-stage capital can help bridge the gap between scientific research and commercial markets, supporting innovations such as affordable MRI machines.Carol Fong believes that China's expanding economic footprint, ASEAN's developing technology ecosystem and closer regional connections could reshape capital flows across Asia, although the region still faces a challenge in attracting investment into its technology and capital markets. Chapter heads 0:00 Introduction 0:42 A Pivotal Moment for Asia Reflecting on the Milken Institute Asia Summit, Manisha, Yeen and Andrew discuss the growing international interest in Asia, shifting capital flows and the questions surrounding AI, investment and who holds the reins of economic power. 03:37 Diversifying Trade and Attracting Global Investment Paul Thoppil, the High Commissioner for Canada in Singapore, explains how Canada is seeking to attract international investment through trade diversification, greater certainty for investors and streamlined project approvals. 08:42 Athletes as the New Capital Allocators NBA player and founding partner of Introduction.com, Tristan Thompson, discusses how athletes and celebrities can bring startups more than capital, at the same time as highlighting why human connection remains valuable in an AI-driven world. 13:39 From Personal Loss to Personalised Cancer Vaccines Shannon Cheung, Chairman and CEO of Averest Capital, shares how his family's experience with cancer inspired his move into biotechnology, explaining how AI, genome sequencing and mRNA technology are helping Likang Life Sciences develop personalised cancer vaccines. 19:25 Turning Innovation into Social Impact Manoj Kumar, the founder of Social Alpha, explains how philanthropic and early-stage capital can help bring affordable healthcare and other impactful innovations to market, from low-cost MRI machines to sustainable materials made from flower waste. 25:38 China, ASEAN and the Future of Capital Flows Carol Fong, Group CEO of CGS International Securities, explores how China's expanding regional footprint, growing technology ecosystems and closer ties with ASEAN could reshape investment flows and unlock new opportunities across Southeast Asia. Useful links https://milkeninstitute.org/events/asia-summit-2026 https://www.international.gc.ca/country-pays/singapore-singapour/singapore-singapour.aspx?lang=eng https://www.canada.ca/en/campaign/canada-investment-summit-2026.html https://liberal.ca/plan/ https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2026/04/23/3279930/0/en/tristan-thompson-joins-introduction-com-as-founding-partner-backing-the-rise-of-the-400b-in-person-connection-economy.html https://introduction.com/ https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/cmq5nljx7972o https://averest.com/about.html https://likanglife.com/ https://www.lechengmedical.com/ https://www.socialalpha.org/ https://phool.co https://www.cgsi.com/Home?lang=EN 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.
Oct 9

How Ayao Komatsu Defied the Odds to Lead Haas F1 | Ayao Komatsu, Haas F1 Team | Tank Talks Asia

In this special episode of Tank Talks Asia, recorded at the Milken Asia Summit, Manisha speaks to Ayao Komatsu, Team Principal of Haas F1 Team, ahead of the Singapore Grand Prix. From his journey from Japan to Formula 1, to building a high-performing team, embracing AI and creating more opportunities for young people in Asia, Ayao shares the experiences and lessons that have shaped his career. Featured Voices Hosts: Manisha Tank Guest: Ayao Komatsu, Team Principal, Haas F1 Team Key takeawaysAyao explains why he believes a transparent, no-blame culture is essential to learning from mistakes and improving performance.He shares how his journey from Japan into Formula 1 was driven by curiosity and passion.He argues that creating more opportunities at grassroots level, rather than simply investing in infrastructure, is key to developing the next generation of Asian motorsport talent.Ayao believes AI presents a major opportunity for smaller F1 teams, helping them to make better use of vast amounts of data.His advice to young people is not to be afraid of taking the first step. Chapter heads 02:41 Learning From Mistakes Ayao explains Haas's transparent, no-blame approach to setbacks, focusing on understanding what went wrong and improving the process rather than dwelling on individual mistakes. 05:15 Inside the Singapore Grand Prix He describes the unique atmosphere of Singapore's night race, while explaining why the pressure and need for consistent performance remain the same wherever the F1 calendar takes the team. 06:08 The Fans Behind the Formula From the huge crowds at Silverstone to Japanese fans creating bespoke gifts for every team member, Ayao reflects on the different ways F1 fans around the world connect with the sport. 08:44 From Japan to Formula 1 Ayao says that watching F1 as a teenager inspired him to leave Japan, learn English and pursue an education in the UK with the ultimate goal of working in motorsport. 13:50 From Engineer to Team Principal He explains how moving into the Team Principal role transformed his responsibilities from engineering to running an entire organisation, encompassing business, people, legal and financial considerations. 15:50 Just Take the First Step Ayao offers advice to young people who want to work in F1, arguing that ambitious goals become achievable when you just focus on the next step. 17:30 Building a Future for Asian Motorsport He discusses the importance of grassroots opportunities, celebrating differences and giving more young people the chance to discover their potential in motorsport. 20:16 AI and the Human Advantage Ayao explains why AI could be particularly valuable to a smaller F1 team like Haas, helping analyze huge volumes of data and freeing people to spend more time on the work only humans can do. 22:53 The Power of Different Perspectives He argues that embracing different cultures, ideas and perspectives can make us more resilient, creative and better equipped for an uncertain world. Useful links https://www.haasf1team.com/ https://www.formula1.com/en/racing/2026/singapore https://gpbeat.com/article/3d4bd354-ffd6-46fc-a87e-0d89eb566238?lang=en&discipline=f1 https://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/automotive-engineering-beng/ https://www.lboro.ac.uk/alumni/news/2024/may/ayao-komatsu-haas-team-principal/ https://www.racefans.net/rio-haryanto/ https://www.haasf1team.com/partners/toyota-gazoo-racing https://www.stemracing.com/ https://milkeninstitute.org/events/asia-summit-2026 Official Hub: Haas F1 Team LinktreeX (formerly Twitter): @HaasF1Team on XInstagram: @haasf1team on InstagramTikTok: @haasf1official on TikTokFacebook: TGR Haas F1 Team on FacebookThreads: @haasf1team on ThreadsWebsite: haasf1team.com [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7] 🏁 2026 Race Drivers Esteban Ocon X (formerly Twitter): @OconEsteban on XInstagram: @estebanocon on InstagramTikTok: @estebanocon on TikTokFacebook: Esteban Ocon Official on Facebook [1] Oliver Bearman X (formerly Twitter): @OllieBearman on XInstagram: @olliebearman on InstagramTikTok: @olliebearman on TikTokFacebook: Oliver Bearman on Facebook [1, 2] 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.
Sep 28

How Creators Turn Content Into Business (and Why Most Fail) | Jasper Donat | Tank Talks Asia

In this episode of Tank Talks Asia, Manisha talks to Jasper Donat, co-founder of Branded and creator of All That Matters, to break down the business side of the creator economy. From running Music Matters Academies to helping independent artists work with global brands, Jasper shares what it really takes to scale your creative craft into a commercial business. Featured Voices Hosts: Manisha Tank Guest: Jasper Donat, CEO and Co-Founder, Branded Key takeawaysJasper explains why creators need to think of themselves as businesses, with a clear plan of where they want to go and how they intend to get there.He discusses the mental health pressures facing creators, particularly the difficulty of separating personal rejection from professional rejection.Jasper argues that authenticity is fundamental to successful creator-brand partnerships.He highlights the power of collaboration, particularly across cultures, and shares examples of creators working together to reach new audiences.His advice to aspiring creators is do what you love, never give up and never stop selling. Chapter heads 01:13 Culture is Commerce Jasper explains why music, sport, gaming, creators and marketing are increasingly converging, and previews the thinking behind this year's Music Matters programme. 03:01 Why Most Creators Don’t Have a Business Plan He says the Music Matters Academy helps musicians understand the business side of their careers, from setting goals to working with platforms, brands, publishers and lawyers. 04:33 Learning From People Who Have Made It Jasper describes how candid conversations with industry leaders give emerging creators access to advice, mistakes and experiences they would rarely encounter elsewhere. 07:51 Managing Mental Health and Handling Rejection The conversation turns to the unique pressures of being your own boss and putting deeply personal creative work into the public domain. 10:27 Luck, Money and the Power of Collaboration Jasper considers how creators break through, why luck can play a role, and how collaborations can help artists reach new audiences across borders. 13:03 Authenticity vs. Brand Deals Jasper shares an example of a creator who turned down a lucrative brand deal, illustrating why trust with an audience can be more valuable than a single payday. 15:38 Finding Your Audience From micro-influencers to creators with millions of followers, Jasper explains why the value of an audience depends on who is actually listening, watching and engaging. 17:28 The Golden Rule: Never Stop Selling Jasper offers his three pieces of advice for aspiring music creators: do what you love, never give up and never stop selling! 20:06 It's About the Fan Drawing on his experience with YouTube FanFest and creators around the world, Jasper explains why successful creators put their relationship with their audience at the heart of what they do. Useful links https://sg.linkedin.com/in/jasperdonat https://www.branded.live/allthatmatters https://www.branded.live/music-matters https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kqU1jW85jG8 https://www.branded.live/youth-music-matters-2025 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.
Sep 11

Bigger than AI: The #1 Threat Bosses Face in 2026 | Maha El Dimachki, GFTN | Talk Talks Asia

In this episode of Tank Talks Asia, Manisha talks to Maha El Dimachki, CEO of Solutions at the Global Finance and Technology Network (GFTN), to unpack the future of global fintech. Maha also shares her insider’s view on how technology is reshaping global finance and economic access, and what she believes the future holds for jobs in an increasingly automated world. Featured Voices Hosts: Manisha Tank Guests: Maha El Dimachki, CEO of Solutions, Global Finance and Technology Network (GFTN) Key takeawaysMaha explains why she believes fintech is capable of solving practical problems in areas such as agriculture, healthcare and access to credit.She says technologies including AI, blockchain, tokenisation and open finance could expand access to financial products and make them more affordable.Maha talks about how regulators need to strike a balance between allowing innovation to develop, while also staying close enough to emerging technologies to understand and manage the risks.She argues that companies need to develop “AI fluency” and understand how AI is being deployed.Maha believes Asia's biggest challenge is creating jobs for a growing population of young people, and is hopeful that collaboration between governments, businesses and organisations can help address it. Chapter heads 01:25 The Future of Financial Services Maha explains what she does at GFTN Solutions and why creating jobs, developing skills and building supportive ecosystems are at the heart of her work. 02:27 From Sydney to London to Singapore She reflects on more than 25 years in finance, talking about the experiences that shaped her career, including her time at the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority. 03:59 Making Finance Work in the Background Maha and Manisha discuss how technology has transformed everyday banking and how financial innovation can connect technology with practical challenges in areas such as farming, healthcare and financial inclusion. 07:00 The Technologies That Could Change Finance From blockchain and tokenisation to AI and open finance, Maha looks at the technologies she believes could unlock new opportunities and make financial services more accessible. 08:47 How Should Regulators Respond? Maha explains the balancing act regulators face as technologies such as AI and quantum computing develop at unprecedented speed. 10:49 Why Businesses Need AI Fluency She argues that companies need to understand the risks and implications of AI for themselves, with boards playing a central role in deciding how the technology should be deployed. 12:27 Can Regulation Be a Friend? Maha challenges the idea that regulators are simply there to get in the way, arguing that startups and scale-ups can use regulation to build stronger, more trusted businesses. 14:29 Cutting Through the Fintech Jargon The conversation turns to acronyms, jargon and the importance of explaining financial technology in terms that everyone can understand. 17:47 Payments, Geopolitics and Sovereignty Maha traces the evolution of payments from traditional banking to neobanks and digital wallets, and explains why geopolitical shifts are making homegrown payment systems and financial sovereignty increasingly important. 20:11 The Five Rewirings Maha previews the themes shaping this year’s Singapore FinTech Festival, from technology and geopolitics to talent, policy and capital, before returning to the question of how Asia can create jobs for its youth. Useful links https://gftn.co/press/gftn-strengthens-global-leadership-team-with-anthony-thomas-as-chief-strategy-growth-officer-and-maha-el-dimachki-as-ceo-of-gftn-advisory https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/taking-insights-action-practical-approach-necxc?trk=public_post_feed-article-content https://www.deloitte.com/uk/en/Industries/financial-services/perspectives/fintech-glossary.html https://www.bankofengland.co.uk/explainers/what-is-a-central-bank-digital-currency https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3u1lIKhHhZQ https://www.fintechfestival.sg/ 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.
Aug 27

Are Insects the Future of Protein? | Christina Rasmussen & Sasha Wijidessa, Fura | Tank Talks Asia

In this episode of Tank Talks Asia, Manisha talks to Christina Rasmussen and Sasha Wijidessa, the co-founders of award-winning Singaporean bar FURA, which serves up innovations such as mealworm margaritas and cultured Japanese quail. The duo explain the thinking behind their unconventional approach to food and drink, discuss what they mean by “collaborative survival” and explain why they want people to rethink the way we eat and drink. Featured Voices Hosts: Manisha Tank Guests: Christina Rasmussen, Co-owner and Head Chef, FURA and Sasha Wijidessa, Co-owner and Head Bartender, FURA Key takeawaysChristina and Sasha say FURA is about creating a new way of eating and drinking that challenges the generational habits shaping the way we consume.They explain how they build their menus on ingredients that are abundant or readily available, working directly with producers and farms where possible.Christina believes her experience as a forager at Noma transformed her understanding of where food comes from and has given her an increased respect for ingredients.The pair say FURA’s use of insects and cultured meat isn’t a gimmick and is a way to introduce people to alternative sources of protein.Christina and Sasha believe meaningful change begins with small, individual choices. Chapter heads 01:03 The Story Behind FURA Christina and Sasha reflect on the very different paths that took them to Copenhagen, where they began the journey that would eventually lead to them establishing FURA in Singapore. 03:31 From Mushrooms to “Collaborative Survival” Sasha reveals how the book The Mushroom at the End of the World helped inspire FURA's name, philosophy and focus on the idea of collaborative survival. 07:44 Cooking With What’s in Abundance Christina breaks down how the restaurant chooses ingredients that are abundant, invasive or prevalent, and how those principles shape its dishes. 10:01 What a Forager Really Does Christina looks back at her time at Noma and explains how getting out into the field transformed her understanding of food and waste. 13:45 Why Insects Are on the Menu From mealworm margaritas to jellyfish martinis, Sasha and Christina explain their thinking behind using insects as an alternative source of protein and why they don't want them to be treated as a gimmick. 19:58 Is Asia the Next Food Frontier? Christina reflects on how Asian food, culture and techniques are increasingly shaping global cuisine, and why Singapore’s mix of influences makes it a natural hub for food innovation. 20:48 The Personal Cost of Choosing an Unconventional Path Sasha recalls the difficult conversations with her parents about working in hospitality, while Christina reflects on unexpectedly becoming a business owner. 23:16 Small Changes, Big Impact Christina and Sasha call for more conscious choices, arguing that small changes in how we eat and consume can help make sustainable habits part of everyday life. 24:18 An Unusual Gift The pair reveal what’s inside the jar they brought for the TTA shelves and, unsurprisingly, it has something to do with insects. 25:56 The Long Road to Insect Approval They reflect on the lengthy process of getting insect-based dishes approved for human consumption and how they had to navigate strict safety regulations before finally receiving the green light. Useful links https://www.fura.space/menu https://www.theworlds50best.com/discovery/Establishments/Singapore/Singapore/Fura.html https://www.straitstimes.com/life/food/mealworm-margaritas-jellyfish-martinis-at-new-eco-conscious-bar-fura https://greenloopfarms.com/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Mushroom_at_the_End_of_the_World https://www.sfa.gov.sg/regulatory-standards-frameworks-guidelines/insect-regulatory-framework/insect-regulatory-framework https://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/jul/10/singapore-approves-insects-eat-food https://nomaprojects.com/blogs/journal/stepping-into-nature?srsltid=AfmBOor6XyjpTJlxR46ew5cJip1YeM70YVrV408zE4wKqlwOoI5i9s07 https://www.instagram.com/fura.sg 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.
Aug 12

GUT Feeling: 25Mins of Health, with Microbiologist Germaine Yong | Tank Talks Asia

In this episode of Tank Talks Asia, Manisha talks to Germaine Yong, who’s a senior scientist at A*STAR’s Singapore Institute of Food and Biotechnology Innovation. She talks about the trillions of microbes living on our bodies and explains how what we eat can shape our gut health. From antibiotics and allergies, to hawker center food and plant-based chicken nuggets, Germaine shares some fascinating discoveries from her research. Featured Voices Hosts: Manisha Tank Guest: Germaine Yong, Senior Scientist, A*STAR Singapore Institute of Food and Biotechnology Innovation (SIFBI) Key takeawaysGermaine explains why the microbiome is far bigger than the gut, with microbes living across our body and playing important roles in keeping us healthy.She argues that excessive use of antibiotics, disinfectants and antiseptics can disrupt our microbial environment and contribute to antimicrobial resistance.She says Asian microbiomes can differ from those in the West, with fermented foods and rice-based diets among the factors that may shape the microbes living in our guts.Her research suggests that diet can change the gut microbiome remarkably quickly, with an all-hawker center diet reducing levels of beneficial bifidobacteria within just two to three days.Germaine believes greater diversity in the plants we eat could be an important part of supporting gut health, and her research into plant-based foods suggests they may offer benefits for the gut microbiome. Chapter heads 02:10 From Toothpicks to the Microbiome Germaine recalls the childhood science experiment that first sparked her fascination with the microscopic world inside and around us. 03:35 The Poo Whisperer She explains what the microbiome actually is, why the gut contains so many microbes, and how stool samples can reveal clues about what's happening inside the body. 04:47 Are We Too Clean? Germaine explores the unintended consequences of excessive use of antibiotics, disinfectants and antibacterial products, and explains why viruses don't respond to antibiotics. 07:03 Good Health Starts With Gut Health She explains how the gut microbiome can influence health far beyond digestion, including areas such as cognitive health, sleep and menopause. 09:08 Why Asian Guts Are Different Germaine looks at how diet, lifestyle and genetics shape microbiomes across populations, and why Asian guts can differ from those in the West. 11:10 The Allergy and Intolerance Question She breaks down the difference between food allergies and intolerances, while sharing her own surprising experience of discovering she is intolerant to gluten. 15:15 What Is Hawker Food Doing to Your Gut? Germaine reveals what happened when researchers studied the impact of a typical Singapore hawker-center diet on the gut microbiome. 16:56 The Case for More Plant Diversity She explains why gut health may depend not just on eating enough fiber, but on eating a wider breadth of plant-based foods. 18:01 Project Nugget Germaine reveals the surprising results of her research comparing fast-food, homemade and plant-based chicken nuggets through the lens of gut health. 20:31 Making Microbiology More Accessible She discusses her passion projects, including a plant-based snack designed to increase dietary diversity and the children's book she wrote about the gut microbiome. Useful links https://www.a-star.edu.sg/sifbi https://research.a-star.edu.sg/articles/highlights/wellness-starts-in-tiny-tummies/ https://www.a-star.edu.sg/sifbi/news-events/in-the-news/should-you-have-char-kway-teow-at-lunch-or-dinner--ask-your-gut https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/parenting-education/mums-scientists-and-now-childrens-book-authors https://www.worldscientific.com/doi/10.1142/12486?srsltid=AfmBOoq5zWZ6Y1wEpOaTlv7cHwJa9kzAQEko5lCfE39i2hKMvfKv5hWZ#t=aboutBook https://www.linkedin.com/posts/germaine-yong_probiotics-superfoods-guthealth-activity-7395981510824189952-Fr0E https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/antimicrobial-resistance 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.
Jul 29

How One Woman Changed Banking in India. And is Now Betting on AI | Arundhati Bhattacharya | Tank Talks Asia

In this episode of Tank Talks Asia, Manisha talks to Arundhati Bhattacharya, President & CEO, South and Southeast Asia, Salesforce and former Chair of the State Bank of India. As one of India’s most influential business figures, Arundhati discusses the impact of AI, the importance of values-based leadership, and the gender barriers she has faced throughout her career. She also reflects on the decisions that helped her transform India's largest bank. Featured Voices Hosts: Manisha Tank Guest: Arundhati Bhattacharya, President & CEO, South and Southeast Asia, Salesforce Key takeawaysArundhati believes lasting leadership begins with taking action, which is a lesson she learned from her mother at an early age.She explains how listening to other women led her to take simple but transformative policies to remove barriers to career progression at SBI.Reflecting on demonetization in India, she says clear leadership, constant innovation and practical problem-solving were essential during one of India's biggest banking challenges.Arundhati argues AI is not a magic solution but a long-term transformation that depends on trusted data, strong governance and clear business outcomes.She believes AI should be viewed as an opportunity to create new skills and careers. Chapter heads 02:31 The Power of Identity Arundhati reflects on her first encounter with gender bias and how lessons learned from her mother shaped her determination to build an identity of her own. 05:58 Never Part of the Plan Arundhati explains how joining State Bank of India at the age of 22 marked the beginning of an unexpected four-decade career at the bank. 08:23 Removing Hidden Barriers for Women She describes how a practical housing challenge was preventing women from taking rural postings and how a simple solution helped change that. 10:52 Leading Through Demonetization Arundhati reflects on managing India's largest bank through one of the country's biggest financial disruptions and why innovation became a daily necessity. 13:34 Starting Again at Salesforce She reveals why leaving banking for the technology sector was one of the hardest decisions of her career and what ultimately persuaded her to join Salesforce. 17:43 Why AI Isn't a Magic Wand Arundhati believes successful AI adoption will require patience, trusted data and a willingness to experiment and learn. 22:45 Building Trust Across Borders She discusses the challenge of deploying AI across Asia's diverse regulatory landscape, where compliance, privacy and trust are non-negotiable. 24:35 Is AI Really Taking Our Jobs? She says many young people in India view AI as an opportunity rather than something to fear. 26:27 Writing Indomitable Arundhati shares how the pandemic gave her the time and motivation to write about the childhood experiences that shaped her life and leadership. 28:47 Carve Out What Doesn't Exist Manisha revisits two memorable quotes from Arundhati, on territoriality and the dangers of complacency, as the conversation concludes with a reflection on what it takes to create new roles and keep growing. Useful links https://harpercollins.co.in/product/indomitable/ https://www.salesforce.com/in/news/stories/arundhati-bhattacharya-india-award/ https://fortune.com/2026/05/22/arundhati-bhattacharya-salesforce-south-asia-ceo-india-most-powerful/ https://www.forbes.com/profile/arundhati-bhattacharya/ https://www.ft.com/content/b46f06d9-2661-4685-9b5b-a3fd1791d64c?syn-25a6b1a6=1 https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/banking/finance/banking/banks-shouldve-been-given-more-time-to-prepare-for-noteban-arundhati-bhattacharya/articleshow/61248590.cms?from=mdr https://www.salesforce.com/artificial-intelligence/ 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.
Jul 15

How a Simple Walk Became a Global Movement. 23 Million Steps. Over $500K Raised for Dementia | Tom Platts, Walk-to-Talk.com | Tank Talks Asia

In this episode of Tank Talks Asia, Manisha talks to Tom Platts, the Singapore-based M&A lawyer who turned a spur-of-the-moment walk around MacRitchie Reservoir into a global movement raising money and awareness for dementia. Tom shares how swapping a beer with a client for a walk in the jungle spiralled into Walk to Talk, a foundation now active across five countries that has raised more than half a million US dollars — and why two phone-free hours in nature each morning completely changed his outlook on life. Featured VoicesHosts: Manisha Tank & Andrew Guest: Tom Platts, Founder, Walk to Talk Key takeaways• Tom explains how a chance decision in January 2023 (swapping a client beer for a charity walk around MacRitchie Reservoir) grew into a movement called Walk to Talk. • He says the daily loops have spread far beyond Singapore, with regular walks now running in London, Melbourne, Dubai and New York. • Tom reveals the initiative has raised more than half a million US dollars for dementia charities across Singapore, the UK and Australia. • He argues that walking and talking away from screens is powerfully good for connection, wellbeing and brain health. • Tom urges anyone touched by dementia not to suffer in silence, noting that roughly 55 million people worldwide live with the disease. Chapter heads 02:45 The Expat Who Never Left Tom explains how an 18-month posting to Singapore in 2011 quietly turned into 13 years and counting. 03:26 A Beer That Turned Into A Big Idea He recalls a difficult year and the January morning he persuaded a client to swap a pint for a walk and a donation. 07:50 What Exactly Is MacRitchie? He gives a tour of the 12.1-kilometre loop, its wartime history and the wildlife he logs for Singapore's National Parks. 09:50 The Challenge Goes Global Tom shares how Walk to Talk spread from Singapore's jungle to London's streets, Melbourne, Dubai and New York. 12:26 The Numbers Behind The Steps Tom talks through the steps he took and the funds he raised for dementia charities across three continents, plus one-off causes close to his heart. 16:04 Getting Dementia Outdoors He explains why bringing people living with dementia into nature matters so much for memory and the senses. 18:46 Don't Suffer In Silence Tom offers advice to families facing dementia and puts the sheer scale of the disease into perspective. 20:10 Why Walking And Talking Is Beneficial For You He looks ahead to brain health, a growing team and how the whole thing reshaped the way he sees life. 23:35 How Can People Get In Touch Tom shares how people can get involved with Walk to Talk. Watch a mini-documentary about Tom & The MacRitchie Challenge https://youtu.be/YJ9mz4vXi_g Useful linkshttps://www.walk-to-talk.com/ https://dementia.org.sg/ https://www.raceagainstdementia.com/ https://www.dementia.org.au/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/walktotalk/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-platts-18924475 Don't miss outWe'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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Creator

AsiaWorks
Years Active

2025 - 2026
Episodes

34
Rating

Explicit
Show Website

Tank Talks Asia

Tank Talks Asia

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How a Simple Walk Became a Global Movement. 23 Million Steps. Over $500K Raised for Dementia | Tom Platts, Walk-to-Talk.com | Tank Talks Asia

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