Before We Get There

Nicholas Braman
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Before We Get There is a podcast about resilience, pivots, and the unfinished paths we all walk. Host Nicholas Braman sits down with creatives, athletes, chefs, entrepreneurs, and others from Singapore and across Asia to surface the moments that reshape them, what stops working, what becomes clearer, and what keeps them moving forward before anything feels settled. New episodes every other Thursday. Learn more at https://nicholasbraman.com/podcast.

  1. FEB 18

    40. Facing My Mask with Charlene Chew

    In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman sits down with Charlene Chew, a creator and athlete widely recognized for her resilience following a traumatic burn accident. Charlene discusses the evolution of her relationship with fitness, moving from a bodybuilding background into calisthenics and shifting her focus toward nervous system regulation rather than pure performance. She shares a candid look at the "mask" required of a public creator and the mental health cost of maintaining a high-energy persona while processing deep, interconnected traumas. The conversation moves past the headlines of her recovery to explore the reality of her current transition, her decision to step back from the "grind" after a five-year sprint, and her search for a new identity that isn't defined by her past. Charlene also reflects on the burden of being viewed as a savior by her audience and her long-term goal of building something tangible to help others feel seen and safe. Charlene's links: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlenechew/  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@charlenechew3005  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@charlenechew250  Podcast links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2h9gsrWKH9C1KY1OzR12kr?si=2a4d19970632465f       Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/before-we-get-there/id1775182252 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beforewegettherepodcast/    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nicholasbraman Website: https://nicholasbraman.com/podcast 00:00 Introduction to Charlene Chew 04:21 Training After the Accident: Scars, Comfort, and Nervous System Regulation 06:48 Catching the Inner Critic: Therapy, Suppression, and Self-Repair 12:34 Beyond ‘Burn Survivor’: Social Media Pressure, DMs, and Evolving Identity 18:06 What’s Next? Rest, Slowing Down, and Blending Fitness + Beauty + Regulation 23:07 The ‘Mask’ in Public: Triggers, Burn Scars, and Autopilot Mode 31:11 Slowing Down to Process Trauma: Burnout, Grief, and Interconnected Healing 37:00 Making Peace with ‘What If’: Identity, Appearance, Style, and Self-Acceptance 39:30 Five-Year Vision + Where to Find Charlene (Closing & Subscribe)

    42 min

  2. FEB 4

    39. Building On My Own Terms with Robert Lai

    In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman converses with Robert Lai, founder of Kaliber Performance Marketing Agency and leader of the APAC Marketers community. They delve into Robert's journey through various global markets, the startup challenges he faced, and the transformative impact of fatherhood on his professional outlook. Robert emphasizes the importance of building a robust company culture based on clear values and how he pivoted his networking approach to hosting events, thus accelerating relationship-building. They also discuss the significance of balancing commercial success with personal values and the mission to attract top talent and clients that align with their ethos. The episode offers insights on overcoming insecurities, leveraging both positive and negative energy for growth, and making strategic decisions to foster success and well-being in business and life. Robert's links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertjlai/  Kaliber: https://kaliber.asia/  APAC Marketers: https://apacmarketers.com/  Podcast links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2h9gsrWKH9C1KY1OzR12kr?si=2a4d19970632465f       Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/before-we-get-there/id1775182252 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beforewegettherepodcast/    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nicholasbraman Website: https://nicholasbraman.com/podcast 00:00 Meet Robert Lai: Founder of Kaliber 02:57 Challenges and Lessons in Business 06:21 Cultural Differences in Work Environments 10:49 Firing Clients and Building Team Culture 16:54 Overcoming Personal and Professional Challenges 22:52 Networking vs. Hosting 27:40 Volunteering and Community Building 33:06 Fatherhood and Priorities 37:01 Future Goals and Aspirations 40:42 Where to Find Rob and Kaliber

    42 min

  3. JAN 21

    38. The Woman I Dress with Debbie Wong

    In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman sits down with Debbie Wong, a TV host and entrepreneur with a background in performing arts and culinary arts. Debbie shares her journey of growing up as an immigrant in Canada, her passion for food, and her venture into the world of YouTube and Food Network Asia. She talks about her transition back to Hong Kong, her experiences in front of the camera, and the lessons learned about self-worth and confidence. Debbie also dives into her new endeavor, Dressing the Woman, a personal style consultancy. Throughout the conversation, she reflects on her personal growth and the importance of stepping into her power. Debbie's links: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ms.debbiewong/  Dressing The Woman: https://www.instagram.com/dressingthewoman/  Podcast links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2h9gsrWKH9C1KY1OzR12kr?si=2a4d19970632465f       Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/before-we-get-there/id1775182252 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beforewegettherepodcast/    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nicholasbraman Website: https://nicholasbraman.com/podcast   00:00 Welcome and Introduction to Debbie Wong 03:39 Starting a YouTube Channel 05:13 Performing Arts and Acting Career 10:59 Returning to Hong Kong 17:46 Challenges of Hosting a TV Show 22:18 Overcoming Self-Limiting Beliefs 24:30 Starting a Fashion Consultancy 28:54 Balancing Creativity and Business 39:07 Future Goals and Personal Growth 42:52 Closing Remarks and Social Media Links

    44 min

  4. JAN 7

    37. Creating A Singapore Dream with Marion Muller (swizzyinsg)

    In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Beman chats with Marion Muller, also known as swizzyinsg, about her unexpected path to becoming a successful content creator in Singapore. Marion details her journey from a struggling job seeker to a full-time content creator, sharing her experiences with identity shifts, dealing with online hate, and building a supportive community. She emphasizes the importance of passion, resilience, and continuous learning in her career. This episode is particularly insightful for those in transitional phases and highlights the behind-the-scenes challenges and rewards of the content creation industry. Swizzy's links: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swizzyinsg/  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@swizzyinsg  Podcast links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2h9gsrWKH9C1KY1OzR12kr?si=2a4d19970632465f       Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/before-we-get-there/id1775182252 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beforewegettherepodcast/    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nicholasbraman Website: https://nicholasbraman.com/podcast 00:00 Marion Introduction and Early Struggles 04:34 Starting the Content Creation Journey 12:43 Dealing with Hate and Negativity 20:12 Balancing Authenticity and Sponsorships 26:21 Mindset and Motivation 34:40 Building Local Connections 39:34 The Drive to Learn and Grow 42:13 The Reality Behind the Scenes 45:00 Final Thoughts and Farewell

    48 min

  5. 12/24/2025

    36. Behind the Red Nose with Shanice Stanislaus

    In this special Christmas episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman interviews professional clown Shanice Stanislaus. Shanice shares her unique journey from being a serious student to discovering her passion for clowning, despite cultural expectations. They discuss the challenges she faced gaining acceptance back home, how she found validation abroad, and the importance of joy and playfulness in life. Shanice also talks about her mission to introduce clowning to more people in Singapore, the barriers to creativity, and how she helps others reconnect with their inner joy. Tune in for a heartfelt discussion on embracing one's true self and the transformative power of humor. Shanice's links: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shanicestanislaus/  Website: https://creativesinspirit.com/  Podcast links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2h9gsrWKH9C1KY1OzR12kr?si=2a4d19970632465f       Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/before-we-get-there/id1775182252 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beforewegettherepodcast/    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nicholasbraman Website: https://nicholasbraman.com/podcast   00:00 Meet Shanice Stanislaus: The Professional Clown 03:00 Discovering Clowning at NYU 06:52 Balancing a Marketing Job and Clowning 08:46 The Turning Point: Clown School in France 19:01 Challenges and Successes in Singapore 22:07 Facing Rejection and Perseverance 26:27 Finding Validation Abroad 31:17 Teaching Clowning in Singapore 39:12 Encouraging Playfulness in Children 42:03 Future Aspirations and Closing Remarks

    45 min

  6. 12/10/2025

    35. The Songs My Eyes Hear with Neonomora

    In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman interviews Neonomora, an award-winning indie musician from Jakarta, Indonesia. Known for her dark and electrifying sound, Neonomora shares her experiences and influences, including the impact of motherhood, her musical evolution, and the challenges of being an outcast. She reflects on her early life in various countries, her struggle with bullying, and how these shaped her identity as an artist. Neonomora also discusses the pressure of maintaining success, the importance of genuine artistic expression, and her upcoming album, inspired by significant life changes, including becoming a mother and her parents' divorce during the pandemic. Neonomora's links: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neonomora/  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0wETOVaHW3AJa8mB6zFo2F?si=mGSOZOdwSaCgFFfNoHuaKg  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NEONOMORA  Podcast links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2h9gsrWKH9C1KY1OzR12kr?si=2a4d19970632465f       Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/before-we-get-there/id1775182252 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beforewegettherepodcast/    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nicholasbraman Website: https://nicholasbraman.com/podcast   00:00 Introduction to Music Artist Neonomra 03:28 Early Musical Influences and Synesthesia 07:30 Parental Expectations and Career Challenges 10:16 Living Abroad and Cultural Experiences 14:34 Artistic Growth and Musical Journey 20:15 The Artist's Journey: Embracing the Present 24:42 The Evolution of an Artist: From Dark to Bright 28:58 New Beginnings: Motherhood and Inspiration 36:05 Adapting to Change: Lessons from Different Places 40:44 Looking Forward: Future Projects and Inspirations

    42 min

  7. 11/26/2025

    34. Fishy Business with Cassandra Ong

    In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman interviews Cassandra Ong, founder of Otter Half marketing agency. Cassandra shares her experience of being laid off, which led her to start her own business. They discuss the creation of Ottie's Fishy Business, a marketing card game for kids, and the challenges and successes of running her own agency. Additionally, Cassandra talks about the differences between working in startups and MNCs, the importance of work-life balance, and how building a personal brand on LinkedIn has opened new doors for her professionally. The conversation also delves into the personal aspects of navigating work and family life, especially as a mother and business owner. Cassandra's links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cassandraong/  Otter Half Website: https://www.otterhalf.co/  Marketing Card Game: https://www.otterhalf.co/otties-fishy-business  Podcast links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2h9gsrWKH9C1KY1OzR12kr?si=2a4d19970632465f       Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/before-we-get-there/id1775182252 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beforewegettherepodcast/    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nicholasbraman Website: https://nicholasbraman.com/podcast   00:00 Introducing the Podcast and Today's Guest 02:00 Cassandra Ong's Marketing Card Game for Kids 08:56 Transitioning from Startups to MNCs 15:43 Navigating Career Challenges and Layoffs 21:54 Starting Otter Half: Overcoming Self-Doubt 25:02 Navigating Sales and Real Business Challenges 34:37 Balancing Work and Family Life 38:48 Looking Ahead: Future Goals and Aspirations

    42 min

  8. 11/12/2025

    33. Rowing Against Myself with Aisyah Rafaee

    In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman welcomes Aisyah Rafaee, Singapore's first Olympian in rowing, who competed at the Rio and Paris games. Aisyah shares her journey from discovering rowing in secondary school to training in Australia and the challenges faced leading up to the Olympics. She discusses the mental and physical demands of high-level competition, overcoming identity struggles post-retirement, and her recent decision to come out of retirement for the 2024 Olympics. Now an entrepreneur and coach, Aisyah reflects on transitioning her skills and experiences into new ventures while emphasizing the importance of mental skills and adaptability. The conversation provides valuable insights into resilience, the power of community support, and finding purpose beyond athletic achievements. Aisyah's links: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ariesyah/  Website: https://www.3hpathlete.com  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/17bbRk72ZW/  Podcast links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2h9gsrWKH9C1KY1OzR12kr?si=2a4d19970632465f       Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/before-we-get-there/id1775182252 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beforewegettherepodcast/    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nicholasbraman Website: https://nicholasbraman.com/podcast 00:00 Introducing Aisyah - Singapore's first Olympic rower 05:23 Discovering Rowing 08:24 Family Influence and Competitiveness 16:46 Balancing Life and Rowing 21:56 Training Alone and Overcoming Bullying 25:22 Experiencing the Olympics and Media Pressure 27:42 Struggles with Retirement and Identity 31:56 Finding New Purpose and Love 36:21 Deciding to Compete Again 39:47 Building a Business and Coaching 42:22 Future Goals and Closing Remarks

    45 min
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About

Before We Get There is a podcast about resilience, pivots, and the unfinished paths we all walk. Host Nicholas Braman sits down with creatives, athletes, chefs, entrepreneurs, and others from Singapore and across Asia to surface the moments that reshape them, what stops working, what becomes clearer, and what keeps them moving forward before anything feels settled. New episodes every other Thursday. Learn more at https://nicholasbraman.com/podcast.

Information

  • Creator
    Nicholas Braman
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    42
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Before We Get There