MONEY FM 89.3 - Weekend Mornings

Saturday Mornings Show host Glenn van Zutphen talks with Eric Olander, co-Founder and Editor-in-Chief of The China Global South Project... one of the world’s most respected independent platforms tracking China’s engagement across Africa, Asia and the developing world. We begin with the India–China reset ahead of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi. As the world grapples with the Ukraine and Iran wars, U.S.–China rivalry, and President Trump’s second administration, India’s long‑standing strategy of “strategic autonomy” looks like the model everyone else is trying to copy. But applying that philosophy to BRICS leadership is far more complicated. Then to Washington, where Chinese President Xi Jinping’s state visit, complete with a summit and state dinner with President Trump, may reshape conversations around trade, AI, EVs, aerospace, and regional security. Eric breaks down what both sides want, and what neither can afford to lose. Finally, Nepal’s extraordinary disaster diplomacy. Kathmandu carefully manages foreign rescue teams to avoid becoming a stage for India–China competition.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Saturday Mornings Show host Glenn van Zutphen has a delicious conversation with Chef Violet Oon, the nation’s beloved Peranakan food ambassador. Her newest Bibik ("autie" in Malay) Violet Cafe at Great World brings handmade kueh, nostalgic bakes, durian specials, and comforting favourites to a warm, vibrant space designed to feel like a Bibik’s home. She describes her two cafés as a celebration of Peranakan warmth with rattan chairs, batik accents, vintage recipe books, and heritage treasures. At the entrance, a kueh counter greets guests with handmade Nyonya treats, house‑made kaya, and kopi and teh blends. Chef Violet shares why Peranakan cuisine is rising globally, how heritage food connects generations of Singaporeans, and why authenticity matters more than ever. Bibik Violet joins the flagship outlet at Temasek Shophouse, continuing the group’s mission to preserve and elevate Peranakan culture.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Saturday Mornings Show host Glenn van Zutphen talks with Mike Cherney, Southeast Asia Correspondent for The Wall Street Journal, to unpack a major development in U.S. and China tensions: the deployment of U.S. Coast Guard, fast‑response cutters to Singapore and the Philippines. The six, 154‑foot vessels are part of a new “expeditionary cutter squadron” that were formerly deployed in the Middle East. Now, they’re operating across the Pacific to challenge China’s growing maritime power and deter moves on Taiwan or contested South China Sea features claimed by the Philippines and Vietnam. Mike explains why the Coast Guard, not just the U.S Navy, is becoming central to Washington’s Indo‑Pacific strategy as it offers a lower‑escalation, high‑presence alternative that signals resolve without triggering conflict. We explore what it means for ASEAN security, and how China is likely to respond.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Saturday Mornings Show host Glenn van Zutphen looks at the Sands for Singapore Charity Festival with Nicholas Ionides, Senior Vice President of Communications & Corporate Affairs at Marina Bay Sands from 28 to 30 August. The Festival blends food, music, and philanthropy into three nights of meaningful giving. Since 2013, the Festival has raised over S$45 million for social causes supporting low‑income families, youths, seniors, and persons with disabilities. This year, features fundraising experiences, community booths, and complimentary entertainment designed to make giving accessible and fun. Opening night features Singaporean artist RRILEY, alongside The Good Bites Market, where gourmet pop‑ups channel proceeds to AWWA’s Enabled Living @ Bedok programme. Visitors can also create digital school packs for NorthLight School students .See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Future Earth, Climate Content Consultant and Reporter Rachel Kelly joins Saturday Mornings Show host Glenn van Zutphen to unpack four major environmental stories unfolding across the Middle East stories that reveal how climate, biodiversity, and geopolitics are increasingly intertwined. We begin with two leaking oil tankers - one off Oman and the other off of Iran and the potential for ecological disaster. With clean up efforts underway, Rachel breaks down the environmental and economic stakes. UAE’s push to protect biodiversity, including new conservation initiatives and the landmark recognition of Wadi Wurayah as the country’s first UNESCO‑listed natural heritage site a milestone for regional conservation. Then in the Persian Gulf, where thousands of stranded vessels may be unintentionally spreading invasive marine species worldwide. Rachel explains how global shipping disruptions create ecological risks that scientists are only beginning to understand.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Leaders in Action, Saturday Mornings Show host Glenn van Zutphen explores one of the most counterintuitive leadership ideas of the decade: walking away is not failure... it’s strategy. Author Sally J. Clarke joins us to discuss her new book Walk Away: Step Out to Step Up, a collection of 16 candid stories from high‑achieving women who left roles that no longer aligned with their values, identity, or ambition. Sally explains why staying too long in the wrong job carries a real cost to health, career capital, and momentum. She challenges the “Lean In” narrative, arguing that clarity, not endurance, is what builds meaningful careers. We explore the signals people miss when they’ve outgrown a role, how to plan a thoughtful exit, and why Singapore’s high‑performance culture makes these conversations especially urgent. We also dive into her own story — the moment she stepped away, the risks she weighed, and how mentors shaped her decisions. Sally frames walking away as a skill anyone can cultivate, one that leads not to collapse but reinvention.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Wide Angle, we dive into RiskMap 2026, the definitive annual forecast from Control Risks and this year’s message is clear: global risk is rising, fragmentation is accelerating, and sanctions have become a strategic business issue, not just a compliance headache. Angela Sapp Mancini, Partner, Control Risks, joins Saturday Mornings Show host Glenn van Zutphen to discuss the report’s biggest findings. Eleven countries saw risk ratings fall thanks to governance improvements but 16 countries saw risk rise, driven by political instability, regulatory volatility, and security threats. We explore the Asia Sanctions Outlook, where U.S.–China competition, expanding European enforcement, and growing concerns about diversion networks are reshaping how companies operate. Angela explains why multinationals must rethink supply‑chain exposure, beneficial ownership, and counterparty risk — especially in energy, logistics, and manufacturing. We also discuss how sanctions now influence board‑level decisions, investment strategy, financing, and market access. Europe’s tougher enforcement stance is emerging as a major wildcard for Asian companies.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MoneyFM 89.3’s Future Earth Segment with Saturday Mornings Show host Glenn van Zutphen and Thien Kwee Eng, CEO of Sentosa Development Corporation look at the just-unveiled Greater Sentosa Master Plan. One of most ambitious transformations in island history, it's a bold, island‑wide reinvention that will redefine how Singaporeans and tourists play, relax, and connect for decades to come. Greater Sentosa integrates Sentosa and Brani into an expanded island playground and sanctuary. It will include the new Imbiah Canopy, Imbiah Lookout Walk, and Sensorium, alongside nature‑based attractions, heritage trails, and next‑generation experiences. In the interview we discuss key elements: • Reimagined beaches built for climate resilience • Sustainability innovations that make the island cooler and keep the green spaces • A new islet‑hopping experience across Siloso, Palawan, and Tanjong • SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ and the Waterfront Lifestyle Development • A new People Mover System and transport hub Kwee Eng explains how Sentosa will balance a doubling of tourism in coming years with deep local meaning.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MoneyFM 89.3’s Singapore Home Brew and Saturday Mornings Show host Glenn van Zutphen celebrates the return of What’s Your Story Slam, Singapore’s longest‑running live storytelling show. Founder Anna Ong joins us in the studio ahead of the 7th‑anniversary event on 17 July at Filmhouse, Golden Mile Tower. What’s Your Story Slam is a community. Each storyteller gets five minutes to share a real, vulnerable, unscripted slice of life. Anna personally vets and coaches every performer, shaping narratives that are honest, funny, heart breaking, and deeply human. Today, WYSH helps corporate leaders, creatives, and everyday Singaporeans build confidence, presence, and storytelling mastery. The anniversary edition features top storytellers, a new venue, and conversations you won’t hear anywhere else. Expect improv, laughter, surprises, and the kind of emotional truth that only live storytelling can deliver.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MoneyFM 89.3’s Diplomatic Dispatches and Saturday Mornings Show host Glenn van Zutphen welcomes Dr Bettina Fanghänel, Germany’s Ambassador to Singapore, to explore this strong and future‑focused bilateral relationships in Asia. Singapore and Germany mark 60 years of diplomatic ties, anchored by shared values: rule of law, multilalteralism, innovation, and export‑driven economic strength. Both countries serve as gateways to their respective regions, making the partnership strategically vital. Ambassador Fanghänel brings nearly two decades of diplomatic experience, including senior roles in the German Foreign Office, the Federal Chancellery, and a posting in Beijing. She shares insights on: • Germany–Singapore defence cooperation • Joint innovation in AI, and advanced manufacturing • The growing role of German companies in Singapore’s economy • Cultural and educational exchanges shaping the next generation • How both nations navigate geopolitical uncertainty while strengthening ties We also explore what she personally loves about living here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Wide Angle, we explore the state of the United States at its 250th birthday — not through punditry, but through the lens of Steven Herman, veteran journalist, former VOA bureau chief and co‑host syndicated radio host Bill Bernardoni of the new national radio program America at 250: Due Diligence. Steven explains why he and his team launched a show carried on 50 radio stations across the US, from conservative talk networks to liberal public radio which is rare in America’s polarized media landscape. Their mission: restore constitutional literacy and civil debate in a country where many voters, including seniors, have forgotten the basics of separation of powers. We dive into the show’s first four episodes: • What government owes its people • Whether America needs an Article V convention • The battle over federal vs. state power • And the 230‑year fight over the Second Amendment Steven shares insights from historians, former lawmakers, constitutional scholars and combat veterans that is revealing how America’s deepest arguments echo across generations. A thoughtful, timely conversation about civility, citizenship and the future of the American experiment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On MoneyFM 89.3’s Home Brew Saturday Mornings Show host Glenn van Zutphen sits down with Singapore legend Jeremy Monteiro to unpack Singapore’s jazz surge. Pianist, composer, educator, and one of the architects of Singapore’s modern jazz ecosystem, Jeremy explains how two decades of institutional support have transformed the scene. Esplanade’s Jazz in July (now in its 19th year), the Mosaic Jazz Fellows, and the Jazz Association Singapore have built a talent pipeline producing internationally placed musicians from Sean Hong Wei (Dizzy Gillespie Band) to Maya Raisha (Queens College) and drummer Yap Ting Wei (Tribeca Jazz Camp). We explore the rise of three‑generation ensembles, the shift toward straight‑ahead jazz vocabulary, and why young Singaporean musicians are now sounding authentically “New York” before adding multicultural flavours like erhu, tabla or Chinese drums. Jeremy also breaks down the economics of the streaming era, the reality of hybrid careers, and why Singapore’s venue landscape is stronger than cities three times our size with a new Esplanade jazz club opening later this year.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On MoneyFM 89.3’s Singapore Home Brew, Saturday Mornings Show host Glenn van Zutphen explores one of the most exciting artistic collaborations to hit Singapore: Marshmallow Laser Feast (MLF) — the London‑based experiential art collective now serving as ArtScience Museum’s 2026–2027 ArtScientists‑in‑Residence aimed at deepening Singapore’s role as a global hub for immersive art, innovation and interdisciplinary creativity. MLF's Artist‑director Ersin Han Ersin is known for transforming invisible natural systems of breath, sound, soil, ecosystems into immersive sensory worlds. Now with their most ambitious Asia engagement yet: a trilogy of major works spanning 2026 and early 2027. Ersin discusses how MLF blends art, ecology, neuroscience and cutting‑edge technology to create experiences that feel alive. We explore their current installation Evolver, a VR journey inside the human body tracing the path of oxygen from mouth to lungs — revealing breath as the link between humans and the natural world. MLF now at the ArtScience Museum: "Evolver" 21 Mar – 16 Aug 2026 Evolver is a collective virtual reality experience which drops audiences deep inside the landscape of the body, following the flow of oxygen through our branching ecosystem, to a single ‘breathing’ cell. The full experience of Evolver is available in Flesh and Bones: The Art of Anatomy and the VR Gallery. "Seeing Echoes In the Mind of the Whale" 6 Jun – 1 Nov 2026 Seeing Echoes In the Mind of the Whale is a large-scale video installation that immerses viewers in the sensory world of cetaceans. Blending deep listening, scientific insight and artistic interpretation, it creates a sensory experience that connects audiences to the strange and wonderful worlds of bottlenose dolphins, humpback whales and sperm whales. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On MoneyFM 89.3’s The Wide Angle, University of Southern California President, Beong-Soo Kim joins Saturday Mornings Show host Glenn van Zutphen and gives his thought leadership on the future of education: • How AI will reshape classroom learning, research and university operations • The importance of ethical, human‑centered AI and the human connection imperative • How to prepare students for a world defined by complexity and rapid change • Why constructive dialogue and collaboration — not polarization — must define the next generation of research, education, and solving the world's problems. As the first Asian American to lead the institution in its 144‑year history, we also discuss USC’s growing footprint in Asia, alumni engagement in Singapore, and Kim’s belief that universities must be engines of innovation, empathy and societal trust. Do not miss this insightful interview. Disclosure: Glenn van Zutphen is a USC AlumniSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On MoneyFM 89.3’s Diplomatic Dispatch, H.E. Paul Thoppil, High Commissioner for Canada in Singapore joins Saturday Mornings Show host Glenn van Zutphen to discuss one of the most quietly successful bilateral relationships in the region. Singapore and Canada share deep alignment on multilateralism, the rule of law, open trade and global security and expanding cooperation. We explore: • $3.7B in merchandise trade and $4.6B in services trade • Why Singapore is Canada’s largest investment source in Southeast Asia • The CPTPP and the push for an ASEAN–Canada Free Trade Agreement • Long‑standing defence ties, including RSAF training in Canada On the lighter side, we also find out about his go-to places and eats in Singapore and what he loves most about living here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.