
The Leong Form
- Episodes
- 27
- Released
- weekly
- Latest episode
- Nov 10, 2026
About the podcast
Brothers Hossan and Stanley try to make sense of the world today.
Episodes 27
26. Going Beyond the Dollar with Goh Kay Yiong, CIO of Tokio Marine
This week on The Leong Form, we’re talking about money through the seasons of life.Our guest on The Leong Form is 𝗚𝗼𝗵 𝗞𝗮𝘆 𝗬𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗴, Chief Investment Officer at Tokio Marine Life Insurance Singapore. With more than …
Show notes
This week on The Leong Form, we’re talking about money through the seasons of life.
Our guest on The Leong Form is 𝗚𝗼𝗵 𝗞𝗮𝘆 𝗬𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗴, Chief Investment Officer at Tokio Marine Life Insurance Singapore. With more than 17 years in financial services, he’s worked in equity analysis, fund management, and investment products management and advisory. Before all that, he started out as an auditor.
We hear how Kay Yiong’s family’s attitudes to money laid the groundwork to dispensing his duties as CIO.
This episode, we explore:
🔹 How his growing-up years shaped his relationship with money, and his first brush with investing
🔹 What “having enough” really means
🔹 The analogy of flying kites and drones
🔹 Telling market noise from real signals
🔹 What to make of wars, geopolitics and AI when you’re investing
🔹 Why he believes it’s more blessed to give than to receiveThis episode is brought to you by Tokio Marine Life Insurance Singapore.
The views shared in this podcast are the speaker's personal opinions and do not represent those of Tokio Marine Life Insurance S’pore.25. Adopting & Fostering: Family Beyond Biology with Mark & Sue Lim
Building a family beyond biology.𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸 𝗟𝗶𝗺 (@marklimsl) and his wife, 𝗦𝘂𝗲 𝗟𝗶𝗺 (@limfamilyhomeschool), have done just that over the years, opening their hearts and home to children through adoption and …
Show notes
Building a family beyond biology.
𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸 𝗟𝗶𝗺 (@marklimsl) and his wife, 𝗦𝘂𝗲 𝗟𝗶𝗺 (@limfamilyhomeschool), have done just that over the years, opening their hearts and home to children through adoption and fostering.
As parents, they have experienced the joys of building a family as well as the uncertainties of loving children whose futures are not entirely in their hands. The journey also involves deeply personal questions their children may confront like identity, belonging and knowing where they come from.
Catch this heartfelt episode of The Leong Form as Hossan and Stanley chat with Mark and Sue about:
- 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘫𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘯𝘦𝘺 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘢𝘥𝘰𝘱𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨- 𝘓𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘦 𝘯𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘨𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘶𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘳𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘺
- 𝘏𝘦𝘭𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘥𝘰𝘱𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘯 𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘳𝘰𝘰𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘵𝘺
- 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘫𝘰𝘺𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩 𝘥𝘪𝘧𝘧𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘨𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘯’𝘴 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦
- 𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘥𝘰𝘱𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘢𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦, 𝘮𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘪𝘢𝘨𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘺
The Lims’ story is a powerful reminder that family isn't defined solely by shared DNA, but by the love, commitment and care we give one another.
The episode’s out now on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
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Helpful resources:
https://www.msf.gov.sg/fostering
https://www.msf.gov.sg/adoption24. Caregiving for Aged Parents, Unfiltered with Felicia Nah & Albert Lee
This week on The Leong Form, we sit down with two caregivers navigating one of life's heaviest seasons: caring for ageing parents.𝗙𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗮 𝗡𝗮𝗵 (@fleachoo) has been the primary caregiver to both her mum and …
Show notes
This week on The Leong Form, we sit down with two caregivers navigating one of life's heaviest seasons: caring for ageing parents.
𝗙𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗮 𝗡𝗮𝗵 (@fleachoo) has been the primary caregiver to both her mum and dad for the past few years, handling everything from big decisions to daily schedules. As she puts it plainly: "Circumstances decided this for me."
𝗔𝗹𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗟𝗲𝗲 (@specialbakescc) stepped into caregiving for his parents when his father's condition took a turn. As the only son, he leads his siblings through decisions while providing hands-on support himself, all while upskilling to better acquaint himself with his parents' conditions in order to better guide his family.
In this episode, we talk about:
- 𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘪𝘵 𝘮𝘦𝘢𝘯𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘶𝘥𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘣𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘰𝘯𝘦 "𝘤𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘵𝘴" 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘴- 𝘔𝘢𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘣𝘪𝘨 𝘥𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘢 𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘶𝘢𝘭 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘧𝘶𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘺
- 𝘞𝘩𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘰𝘭𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘢𝘭𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘯𝘦𝘦𝘥𝘴 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯
- 𝘔𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘢 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘵'𝘴 𝘮𝘰𝘣𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘱𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮
Real and unfiltered, and a conversation for you if you’re quietly carrying this load right now.
Catch the full episode now on YouTube, Spotify & Apple Podcasts. Links in bio.
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Helpful resources:
https://www.aic.sg/Caregiving-Support
https://www.mindfull.org.sg
https://www.cwa.org.sg
https://www.hnf.org.sg/services/caregiver-support-training-programme23. Adulting: Ready or Not? (with Crystal Lim-Lange, Erin Amir & Sherrie Low)
This week on The Leong Form, we're talking Adulting - the season of life where real life matters can bring real life jitters.The conversation sparks with 𝗖𝗿𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗟𝗶𝗺-𝗟𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲 (@crystallimlange), co-founder of …
Show notes
This week on The Leong Form, we're talking Adulting - the season of life where real life matters can bring real life jitters.
The conversation sparks with 𝗖𝗿𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗟𝗶𝗺-𝗟𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲 (@crystallimlange), co-founder of Forest Wolf, a leadership consultancy helping people build future-ready mindsets. She brings the big-picture view on what's genuinely different about adulting today versus a generation ago.
Joining her are two young women living out the season right now:
𝗘𝗿𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗺𝗶𝗿 (@erinaamir) — Forest Wolf's brand strategist, currently juggling a full-time job and a Psychology degree at SUSS by night.
𝗦𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗿𝗶𝗲 𝗟𝗼𝘄 (@hiimsher) — a Biomedical Science grad from the University of Queensland, now navigating her very first job.
In this episode, we get real about:
- 𝘞𝘩𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘈𝘐 𝘪𝘴 𝘢 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘳 𝘢 𝘸𝘢𝘬𝘦-𝘶𝘱 𝘤𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘰 𝘥𝘰𝘶𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘥𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘰𝘯 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘩𝘶𝘮𝘢𝘯
- 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘣𝘰𝘥𝘺 𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘢𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘶𝘱, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘢𝘺 “𝘕𝘰”
- 𝘞𝘩𝘺 “𝘪𝘵'𝘴 𝘰𝘬𝘢𝘺 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘪𝘵 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘧𝘪𝘨𝘶𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘰𝘶𝘵” 𝘮𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘣𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘪𝘮𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘬
Whether you're two years into adulting or twenty, grow a little wiser by catching the full episode on The Leong Form now on YouTube, Spotify & Apple Podcasts.22. Cancer: The Life Reset (with Janice Koh & Dr. Gopal Iyer)
Meet our guests for this week's episode of The Leong Form!Janice Koh — Singaporean actress, former Nominated Member of Parliament and cancer survivor. In July 2022, Janice was diagnosed with tongue cancer …
Show notes
Meet our guests for this week's episode of The Leong Form!
Janice Koh — Singaporean actress, former Nominated Member of Parliament and cancer survivor. In July 2022, Janice was diagnosed with tongue cancer. How devastating the news for someone whose career depends on the spoken word. Today, she's not just back on her feet, she's back on stage!
Prof Gopal Iyer — Head & Senior Consultant, Department of Head and Neck Surgery at Singapore General Hospital and the National Cancer Centre Singapore. He's delivered the "C" word to more patients than he can count. He reveals what those moments are really like from the other side of the table.
In this episode, we consider:
- what it really feels like in the moment you're told you have cancer
- Is there ever a "good way" to break the news
- The silver linings that came out of Janice's darkest season
- What caregivers wish patients knew and vice versa
- Why cancer didn't get the last word in Janice's storyA conversation about fear, faith and what it means to live fully when life feels fragile.
Catch the full episode now out on YouTube, Spotify & Apple Podcasts. Link in bio.
21. What If I Fail To Retire? (Live from The Price of Tomorrow 2025)
For every adult putting in the hours at work and slogging through the night, every hour spent working is an hour closer to retirement. Pop the poppers! Retirement is a desirable destination, but it can also be …
Show notes
For every adult putting in the hours at work and slogging through the night, every hour spent working is an hour closer to retirement. Pop the poppers! Retirement is a desirable destination, but it can also be a pin drop you might well dread, especially if you’re not ready.
So many things can derail your retirement plans – suffering job loss, declining health, acquiring a disability, making poor investments or being scammed of your life savings. What if you fail to retire?We address this on The Leong Form takeover, recorded at The Price of Tomorrow - a financial wellness festival presented by OCBC. We confront the quiet anxiety many Singaporeans face in their 50s — the fear of not having “enough,” and the uncertainty of what retirement looks like in today’s volatile world.
From CPF realities and misunderstood benchmarks of adequacy, to rethinking investment strategies and insurance coverage, Stanley Leong’s guests unpack what it truly means to plan and re-plan for retirement amid longer lifespans and rising costs.
Stanley picks the minds of Peh Er Yan (Group Director of CPF Board’s Communications & Engagement Group), independent actuarial consultant Alex Lee, and Timothy Liew (Head of Investments at OCBC).
There’s no better time than now to get retirement-ready!
The Leong Form is available on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts!--
With the exception of the OCBC representative, the views and opinions expressed belong to the guest speakers and do not represent the views of OCBC Bank.20. From Shooting Hoops to Leadership Loops with Jasmin Lau
What makes someone step out of the “policy bubble” and into the political arena? And how does that decision reshape everything from leadership to family life? Minister of State for the Ministry of Digital …
Show notes
What makes someone step out of the “policy bubble” and into the political arena? And how does that decision reshape everything from leadership to family life?
Minister of State for the Ministry of Digital Development and Information, and the Ministry of Education, JasminLau (@jasminlaujm), opens up about the turning points that changed her career, her convictions, and how she shows up as a mother, policymaker, and MP for Ang Mo Kio GRC.
From confronting AI (what Jasmin refers to as “digital opium”), to mum guilt and what team sports have taught her, Jasmin reveals the unexpected ways her worlds collide.
Also hear her musings on what it really takes to prepare every Singaporean to thrive in a hyper-digital age.
Click on the links in bio to watch/hear Jasmin’s candid conversation with Hossan and Stanley Leong on The Leong Form!
The Leong Form is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and on the YouTube channel.
19. From Metal to Ministry with Dinesh Vasu Dash
From a metalhead to becoming Minister of State for Culture, Community and Youth, and for Manpower - this is the story of Dinesh Vasu Dash (@dineshvasudash).Dinesh has gone from leading troops in Afghanistan, to …
Show notes
From a metalhead to becoming Minister of State for Culture, Community and Youth, and for Manpower - this is the story of Dinesh Vasu Dash (@dineshvasudash).
Dinesh has gone from leading troops in Afghanistan, to overseeing security at the Trump-Kim Summit in Singapore, to carrying the late Mr. Lee Kuan Yew’s casket.
Hear how his experiences have forged his beliefs about leadership, sacrifice, and empathy.
Dinesh also shares his reflections on mental health, supporting the vulnerable in society, and what it really means to include every Singaporean in our shared story.
And of course, we had to quiz him about being a Metallica fan!
From metal to the work he does at two ministries, Hossan and Stanley Leong are locked and loaded with questions on this brand new episode of The Leong Form.
Watch and listen on Spotify, YouTube and Apple Podcasts. Go to links in bio or search ‘The Leong Form’ on your favourite platform now!18. No Shrinking Away From Politics with Syed Harun Alhabsyi
Our guest on this special episode is Dr Syed Harun Alhabsyi (@drsyedharun), Senior Parliamentary Secretary for the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of National Development.The former psychiatrist in …
Show notes
Our guest on this special episode is Dr Syed Harun Alhabsyi (@drsyedharun), Senior Parliamentary Secretary for the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of National Development.
The former psychiatrist in private practice discloses how his experiences in medicine, community work, and education converge to shape his approach to national issues like supporting families living in public rental flats and students with special needs.
The conversation also turns to what binds us as a nation, and how ordinary Singaporeans can play a part in strengthening the social fabric.17. Not By The Book But By Fire with Shen Tan
From Forbes director to self-taught chef, Shen Tan’s journey is anything but ordinary. Shen (@chefshentan & @ownselfmakechef) carved her own path through Singapore’s brutal F&B scene - from running hawker …
Show notes
From Forbes director to self-taught chef, Shen Tan’s journey is anything but ordinary. Shen (@chefshentan & @ownselfmakechef) carved her own path through Singapore’s brutal F&B scene - from running hawker stalls and restaurants to private dining.
In this episode, Shen shares:
- Why she traded in her power suit for an apron
- How being self-taught shaped her philosophy (and her battles with imposter syndrome)
- Her unfiltered take on Singapore’s merciless F&B industry
- Her advice for aspiring café owners and home cooks
This episode packs a punch with a generous serving of sambal!
Follow Shen’s work in and out of the kitchen at ownselfmakechef.com
Enjoy more episodes of The Leong Form on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube!
16. Facing Grief, Finding Hope with George Chan
Grief is universal, inevitable and unavoidable. Yet, it’s often misunderstood.In this episode of The Leong Form, brothers Hossan and Stanley dive into a deeply human conversation with George Chan - Counsellor …
Show notes
Grief is universal, inevitable and unavoidable. Yet, it’s often misunderstood.
In this episode of The Leong Form, brothers Hossan and Stanley dive into a deeply human conversation with George Chan - Counsellor, Grief Educator, and Breathwork Coach at This Is How We Heal (@this.is.how.we.heal).
George spent three decades in the arts and entertainment industry before a personal turning point led him from theatre to therapy. His own healing journey in 2018 sparked a new calling to help others navigate grief, loss and the messy, non-linear road toward healing.
In this conversation, we explore:
- What grief really is
- How George’s theatre background informs his counselling practice
- The different types and stages of grief
- Coping mechanisms and when to seek extra support
- How we can walk alongside someone who is grieving
- The personal strategies George uses to stay grounded while helping others through pain
Grief may be heavy, but this episode is full of hope as healing is possible.
Follow George’s work at thisishowweheal.com.sg
Listen to other episodes of The Leong Form on Apple Podcasts and watch them on Spotify and YouTube!
Don’t forget to like, share and subscribe for more real conversations with Hossan and Stanley and their guests!
15. From Picking Up Speed to Finding Purpose with UK Shyam
From breaking records on the track to shaping young minds in the classroom, this week’s guest knows all about life’s turning points.Siblings Hossan and Stanley Leong sit down with U.K. Shyam (@u.k.shyam1037) …
Show notes
From breaking records on the track to shaping young minds in the classroom, this week’s guest knows all about life’s turning points.
Siblings Hossan and Stanley Leong sit down with U.K. Shyam (@u.k.shyam1037), Singapore’s former national sprinter who held the 100m national record of 10.37s for an incredible 22 years! Shyam famously broke C. Kunalan’s long-standing record at the 2001 World University Games in Beijing.
But what happens after the cheers fade and the spikes come off? Today, Shyam is an educator with a passion for youth development, and his story is a powerful lesson in resilience, purpose and transformation.
In this conversation, we explore:
- How Shyam first got on the track and what inspired him to compete
- The pressures, challenges, and darkest moments of elite sport
- What sprinting taught him about joy and discipline
- Why he chose to join the education sector after retiring in 2005
Subscribe, like and add The Leong Form to your playlist so you’ll be the first off the blocks when the next episode drops!
14. Seeing Light In The Dark with Lim Lee Lee
What does it mean to live with courage, optimism and unstoppable grit? Our guest this week, Lim Lee Lee (@nicetheguidedog), embodies all of it and more.Born premature with congenital cataracts, Lee Lee lost her …
Show notes
What does it mean to live with courage, optimism and unstoppable grit? Our guest this week, Lim Lee Lee (@nicetheguidedog), embodies all of it and more.
Born premature with congenital cataracts, Lee Lee lost her sight early in life, but she’s never let blindness define her. Today, she moves through life with the help of her guide dog, Hesta, and an unshakable belief in possibilities.
Lee Lee wears many hats as an Accessibility & Arts Advocate, Theatre & Film Producer, Writer & Disability Arts Trainer, Entrepreneur & Co-Founder of Collective Perspectives (@collective.perspectives) - a social enterprise empowering Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). She’s also a 2022 Recipient of the Goh Chok Tong Enable Award.
In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode, we talk about:
- Misconceptions and stereotypes about disability
- The joys and challenges of living with a guide dog in Singapore
- Why independence is important to her
- What Singapore can do to become a more inclusive society
Don’t forget to like, share and subscribe for more inspiring stories on The Leong Form that challenge perspectives and celebrate resilience.
13. Golds, Glory & Gravity with Kai Minejima-Lee
Our guest this episode is Kai Minejima-Lee (@kaiflysg), World Cup Freestyle Indoor Skydiving Champion and Singapore’s 2025 Sports Boy of the Year with more than a dozen medals to his name from international …
Show notes
Our guest this episode is Kai Minejima-Lee (@kaiflysg), World Cup Freestyle Indoor Skydiving Champion and Singapore’s 2025 Sports Boy of the Year with more than a dozen medals to his name from international competitions in 2024!
At just 16 years old, Kai’s journey is already packed with twists, turns and tumbles, and not just in the air.
He opens up about:- The turning point that set him on the path of competitive indoor skydiving
- Overcoming his darkest challenges as a young athlete
- The exhilaration of competing (and winning!) on the world stage
- His short- and long-term goals in sport
Joining Kai on the episode is his mum, Naomi, who shares a parent’s perspective on raising a world champion and how she and fellow parents of Team Singapore athletes come together to support their children as they fly high!
Watch The Leong Form podcast on YouTube and Spotify, or listen on Apple Podcasts for more inspiring conversations and behind-the-scenes stories with changemakers, champions and everyday heroes.
12. Your Accent, Your Fate with Heather Hansen
In this thought-provoking episode, Hossan and Stanley dive into the world of accents with international speaker and communication coach Heather Hansen (@heather.hansen) — TEDx speaker, author of Unmuted, PhD …
Show notes
In this thought-provoking episode, Hossan and Stanley dive into the world of accents with international speaker and communication coach Heather Hansen (@heather.hansen) — TEDx speaker, author of Unmuted, PhD candidate in linguistics, and founder of Global Speech Academy.
Inspired by Singapore’s national pledge, what if we added just one word — accent — to that iconic line: “Regardless of race, language, accent or religion…”
Wouldn’t that be a more inclusive promise?In this conversation, we explore:
- Why accents are more than just sounds — and how they carry deep social, cultural and emotional weight
- What it was like for Heather adjusting to life (and lah) in Singapore, and the hilarious catch-no-ball moments she faced
- Why we form biases around certain accents — and how these snap judgments can hold people back
- How even positive bias can be damaging, and where imitation crosses the line into mockery
- What TV shows like Mind Your Language got wrong (and right) about accent representation
- The global implications of accent bias in hiring, leadership, and cross-cultural communication
- And what YOU can do to check your own linguistic assumptions — and help build a world that listens better
Don’t forget to subscribe, like and add The Leong Form to your playlist to get notified of new episodes that spark real conversations about life, language and all its hues and accents.
11. A Couple of Laughs with Rishi Budhrani & Sharul Channa
Season 2 launches with Singapore’s only podcast siblings Hossan and Stanley Leong sitting down with Singapore’s comedy power couple, Rishi Budhrani (@rishibudhrani) and Sharul Channa (@thesharulchanna). From …
Show notes
Season 2 launches with Singapore’s only podcast siblings Hossan and Stanley Leong sitting down with Singapore’s comedy power couple, Rishi Budhrani (@rishibudhrani) and Sharul Channa (@thesharulchanna).
From stage life to married life, this is a deep, unfiltered conversation that dives into:
- Their turning point into comedy — and whether there was a point they wanted out
- What it’s really like being married to someone in the same (and very loud) profession
- The Sad Clown Paradox and how they manage mental wellness in a career built on making people laugh
- The serious side of comedy — the grind, being their authentic selves and navigating the fine line in today’s woke culture
- And yes, who’s really the funnier one?
Plus, watch Rishi and Sharul go head-to-head in a fast-paced word scramble challenge!
Whether you’re a fan of stand-up, in a relationship with a creative, or just curious about the behind-the-scenes of comedy in Singapore, this episode is a rare and hilarious peek into the real lives of two of the country’s most iconic comedians.
Follow Rishi and Sharul on these platforms:
Rishi - www.rishibudhrani.com @rishibudhrani on Instagram and YouTube
Sharul - @thesharulchanna on Instagram
You can also search them on YouTube for more laughs!10. Let's Talk About Mental Health & Wellness (Dr Jade Kua, Jade Life & Wellness)
What's the difference between burnout and depression? Or a mentor and a coach? How do you tell if a life coach is legit? Hossan and Stanley are joined by Dr Jade Kua (Jade Life & Wellness) as she breaks …
Show notes
What's the difference between burnout and depression? Or a mentor and a coach? How do you tell if a life coach is legit? Hossan and Stanley are joined by Dr Jade Kua (Jade Life & Wellness) as she breaks down the importance of mental health and wellness in a post-covid world.
CW: This episode covers different issues related to mental health, including topics like suicide and depression, as part of our holistic discussion.
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About the guest
Dr. Jade Kua is an emergency physician, Master Certified Coach, and founder of Jade Life & Wellness Coaching Academy. She blends medical expertise with holistic coaching to promote well-being, mindfulness, and personal growth. Her academy offers ICF-accredited training and mentoring for aspiring coaches seeking purposeful, connected lives. Find out more at https://www.jadelifeandwellness.com/
09. Let's Talk About New Media Today (feat. Supercatkei & Smxne)
It's a brand-new age of media. What does it take to be a full-time content creator? In this double-guest episode, our hosts talk to Denise Teo (@Supercatkei) and See Min (@Smxne) about their creative …
Show notes
It's a brand-new age of media. What does it take to be a full-time content creator? In this double-guest episode, our hosts talk to Denise Teo (@Supercatkei) and See Min (@Smxne) about their creative processes, as well as the true opportunities and challenges carving a career on platforms Twitch and YouTube.
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About the guests
Denise Teo, also known as supercatkei on the internet, is a live streamer, content creator and community builder. She is popularly known for her gaming, music and lifestyle content such as her viral Street Interviews. Recognized as one of the leaders in live streaming for Southeast Asia, Denise has spearheaded content-creator led events and mentorship programs for aspiring streamers and content creators.
See Min Ng (@Smxne) is a Singaporean artist, YouTuber, and the pioneering force behind jagua body art in Singapore. She is the founder of Henndrawn, a studio that specializes in Jagua ink tattoos — a natural, temporary medium that mimics the look of real ink. A self-taught creative, Min weaves digital storytelling with soulful reflections on identity, mindfulness, and self-expression. Her cinematic YouTube films and visual artistry have earned her recognition in Singapore’s creative scene.
08. Let's Talk About Perfumes (feat. Jason Lee, Scent by SIX)
What's the difference between designer vs niche perfume? What about Eau De Toilette and Eau De Parfum? Can scents be more than just for beauty? Hosts Hossan and Stanley sit with CEO and artisan Jason Lee …
Show notes
What's the difference between designer vs niche perfume? What about Eau De Toilette and Eau De Parfum? Can scents be more than just for beauty? Hosts Hossan and Stanley sit with CEO and artisan Jason Lee (Scent by SIX) to understand more about perfumery.
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About The Guest
Jason Lee is the founder of Scent by SIX, a Singaporean fragrance brand known for creating meaningful, emotion-driven scents. Launched in 2016, the brand blends perfumery with purpose, often supporting mental wellness and community initiatives. Jason draws inspiration from personal stories and local culture, crafting fragrances that resonate on a deeper level. Under his leadership, Scent by SIX has become a respected name in Southeast Asia’s niche fragrance scene, championing both creativity and social impact. Find out more at scentbysix.com
07. Let's Talk About Running An Apparel Brand (feat. Lucas Saw, Talking Toes)
Hossan and Stanley talk to entrepreneur Lucas Saw about running an apparel brand in an episode sure to inspire us all to pull up our socks, overcome the odds and the importance of drive in the younger …
Show notes
Hossan and Stanley talk to entrepreneur Lucas Saw about running an apparel brand in an episode sure to inspire us all to pull up our socks, overcome the odds and the importance of drive in the younger generation.
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About the guest
Lucas Saw is the director and visionary of apparel brand Talking Toes. With an entrepreneurial spirit and many years of brand consultancy under his belt, Lucas and his trusted team are on a quest to transform everyday commodities into pun-filled products that not only bring a smile, but also lasting positive impact for people and the planet. Find out more at talkingtoessocks.com
06. Let's Talk About Electric Cars (feat. Ben Lau & Jamie Nonis)
Fasten your seatbelts because special guests Ben and Jamie bring our hosts up to speed on the big disruption in the automotive world. --About The GuestsBenjamin Lau isn’t just an avid collector of vintage cars …
Show notes
Fasten your seatbelts because special guests Ben and Jamie bring our hosts up to speed on the big disruption in the automotive world.
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About The Guests
Benjamin Lau isn’t just an avid collector of vintage cars. With many decades of experience in the industry, Ben keeps a keen eye and ear on the ever-changing automative world to ensure that every driver he meets is paired with a drive that works for them. It’s no wonder why people come to him for the best advice when picking their next ride.
Jamie Nonis (they/them) is an independent journalist with over 20 years of experience in the luxury scene specialising in cars, watches, private jets, yachts and travel. They are especially passionate about interviewing influential captains of industry and illustrious personalities the likes of F1 drivers Charles Leclerc, Pierre Gasly and Alex Albon. Their work has been featured on platforms such as the BBC, Channel NewsAsia, The Straits Times, Esquire (Singapore), Vogue (Singapore) and The Peak (Singapore).05. Let's Talk About Wine (feat. François Barel, Grand Vin)
How should I choose a bottle of wine as a gift? What's the real difference between Champagne and Sparkling Wine? What are the faux pax when having a drink? All these questions and more as Hossan and …
Show notes
How should I choose a bottle of wine as a gift? What's the real difference between Champagne and Sparkling Wine? What are the faux pax when having a drink? All these questions and more as Hossan and Stanley chat with special guest François Barel from top wine merchant Grand Vin, breaking down how to appreciate a good glass of wine.
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Throughout his career, François Barel has worked with chefs from across the world representing a total of 11 Michelin stars. He has over two decades of experience in some of the most exquisite restaurants, and notably Joël Robuchon in Singapore.
As a way to impart his experience with the next generation, François also lectured at NYP, where he taught about Wine, Spirits, and Mixology in the Food and Beverage Management programme.
François is now the Head Educator at renown fine wine merchant Grand Vin.04. Let's Talk About Skincare (feat. Dr Martin Chio)
What is the right way to care for your skin? How much sunscreen should we really be using? Is anti-aging just a myth? Join Hossan and Stanley as they break it all down with special guest, Dr Martin Chio.--Dr …
Show notes
What is the right way to care for your skin? How much sunscreen should we really be using? Is anti-aging just a myth? Join Hossan and Stanley as they break it all down with special guest, Dr Martin Chio.
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Dr Martin Chio is a Senior Consultant Dermatologist at the National Skin Centre Singapore, where he also completed his advanced speciality training in Dermatology. He was awarded an NMRC medical research fellowship as part of the MOH HMDP to pursue an MSc at University College London and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine. He is also a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians (London) and the Academy of Medicine Singapore; he served as the Chair of the Chapter of Dermatologists (2015–2019).
Dr Chio is an avid clinician educator and has been appointed Adj Associate Professor with the Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, Duke-NUS Medical School & the NTU Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Clinical Senior Lecturer with the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine; he was awarded the YLLSOM Dean’s award for Teaching Excellence twice. He is a visiting consultant with the SAF Medical Corps & Tan Tock Seng Hospital and an associate mediator with the Singapore Mediation Centre.
For his active volunteer work as a visiting dermatologist at both the Dover Park Hospice and Villa Francis home for the aged, he was awarded the Healthcare Humanity Award. In 2024, he was awarded the NHG Outstanding Citizenship award & the Red Ribbon award by Action for AIDS Singapore for advocacy work.03. Let's Talk About Coffee (feat. Jonathan Teo, Kyuukei Coffee)
Are there really plums or oolong tea in my coffee beans like it says on the bag? Pineapple and coffee?! Can I reuse my coffee capsules? Hossan and Stanley sit down with Jonathan Teo from Kyuukei Coffee to brew …
Show notes
Are there really plums or oolong tea in my coffee beans like it says on the bag? Pineapple and coffee?! Can I reuse my coffee capsules? Hossan and Stanley sit down with Jonathan Teo from Kyuukei Coffee to brew up a conversation on how to appreciate the world of coffee.
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After pivoting from the biotech industry, Jonathan is now the proud owner and founder of Kyuukei Coffee.
With his team, he has continued to grow the brand from a simple coffee cart in 2023 into fully-run cafes in Singapore at both Alexandra and Maxwell.
Like its name (which means “rest” in Japanese), Jonathan hopes that Kyuukei will continue to provide a warm refuge for people to connect and recharge from the busyness of life.
Find out more at kyuukeicoffee.com.
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After pivoting from the biotech industry, Jonathan is now the proud owner and founder of Kyuukei Coffee.
With his team, he has continued to grow the brand from a simple coffee cart in 2023 into fully-run cafes in Singapore at both Alexandra and Maxwell.
Like its name (which means “rest” in Japanese), Jonathan hopes that Kyuukei will continue to provide a warm refuge for people to connect and recharge from the busyness of life.
Find out more at kyuukeicoffee.com.
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After pivoting from the biotech industry, Jonathan is now the proud owner and founder of Kyuukei Coffee.
With his team, he has continued to grow the brand from a simple coffee cart in 2023 into fully-run cafes in Singapore at both Alexandra and Maxwell.
Like its name (which means “rest” in Japanese), Jonathan hopes that Kyuukei will continue to provide a warm refuge for people to connect and recharge from the busyness of life.
Find out more at kyuukeicoffee.com.
02. Let's Talk About Mid-Career Switches (feat. James Koh)
Is there ever a right time to pivot in your career? Do I have what it takes to be in the gig economy? What should we do to keep up with this fast-changing world? Hossan and Stanley talk to special guest, James …
Show notes
Is there ever a right time to pivot in your career? Do I have what it takes to be in the gig economy? What should we do to keep up with this fast-changing world? Hossan and Stanley talk to special guest, James Koh, about navigating the intricacies of mid-career switches.
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About The Guest
James is a known talent scout in the advertising and marketing communications industry, and the top people know that he will find them a great job.
Based in Singapore, he has successfully placed general managers, managing directors, creative directors, executive creative directors and strategic planning directors in multinational advertising agencies throughout Asia.
Identifying leaders for the communications and branding industry is one of James’s passions. Outside of work, he enjoys time working out and if you are lucky you might bump into him as he races at Hyrox Taipei in April this year.
His new book, Hire Power, is out now and available to purchase here and at major bookstores across Singapore.
Find out more about James and his work at jameskennethkoh.com
01. Let's talk about curiosity (feat. Benjamin Lee)
Hossan and Stanley talk to Benjamin Lee about the importance of staying curious no matter how old you are, especially in a constantly changing world. --About the guestBenjamin Lee (also known as Mr Miyagi) is …
Show notes
Hossan and Stanley talk to Benjamin Lee about the importance of staying curious no matter how old you are, especially in a constantly changing world.
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About the guest
Benjamin Lee (also known as Mr Miyagi) is an instigator in brand storytelling and communications. He's the OG "content creator", scriptwriter and a curious person.
Find out more about Ben here.
Teaser
Save it! Bookmark it! Put it on your playlist! Get ready because brothers Hossan and Stanley are about to kick things off with The LeongForm, launching late March 2025.
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