Podcast appearances and mentions of ernest luis

Booming arrivals, stubborn humidity – but dull and overpriced? Synopsis: On Wednesdays, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests. Singapore’s tourism pitch is not just about selling its picture-perfect skyline; it’s also about showcasing its rich multiculturalism, leaning into its talent in hosting world-class events, and taking visitors on a journey to discover how a young nation is defining its own identity. In this episode, senior columnist Tan Dawn Wei speaks with Ms Jean Ng, assistant chief executive of Experience Development at the Singapore Tourism Board, and Mr Matin Mohdari, head of Public Policy for Southeast and South Asia at online travel company Expedia Group about Chinese traveller sentiment, events as demand drivers, cooling the city, and how AI could reshape tourism by 2040. They unpack Singapore's 2025 performance, why “hot, boring, expensive” perceptions among some Chinese travellers matter, and how STB is adjusting for younger, social-media-led free-and-easy visitors through partnerships, IP, and precinct storytelling. The conversation also looks at practical ways to soften the tropical heat, what Singapore offers versus rival Asian cities, and the balance between premium experiences and everyday affordability. Finally, they explore Tourism 2040 – the roadmap to hitting between $47 and $50 billion in tourism receipts by then – and how AI can boost productivity behind the scenes, while keeping the human stories that make a place emotionally resonant. Highlights (click/tap above): 2:54 “Too hot, too boring, too expensive” 13:14 Singapore can’t change its climate, but it can make the outdoor experience more enjoyable 16:54 Singapore’s edge over other Asian cities 24:48 Going after “quality tourism” in Singapore’s Tourism 2040 roadmap 38:10 What Singapore needs to loosen control over, to be emotionally resonant Read more: https://str.sg/okfhy Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH Read Dawn's columns: https://str.sg/3xR7 Host: Tan Dawn Wei (dawntan@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb Spotify: https://str.sg/w7sV Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #inyouropinionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Booming arrivals, stubborn humidity – but dull and overpriced? Synopsis: On Wednesdays, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests. Singapore’s tourism pitch is not just about selling its picture-perfect skyline; it’s also about showcasing its rich multiculturalism, leaning into its talent in hosting world-class events, and taking visitors on a journey to discover how a young nation is defining its own identity. In this episode, senior columnist Tan Dawn Wei speaks with Ms Jean Ng, assistant chief executive of Experience Development at the Singapore Tourism Board, and Mr Matin Mohdari, head of Public Policy for Southeast and South Asia at online travel company Expedia Group about Chinese traveller sentiment, events as demand drivers, cooling the city, and how AI could reshape tourism by 2040. They unpack Singapore's 2025 performance, why “hot, boring, expensive” perceptions among some Chinese travellers matter, and how STB is adjusting for younger, social-media-led free-and-easy visitors through partnerships, IP, and precinct storytelling. The conversation also looks at practical ways to soften the tropical heat, what Singapore offers versus rival Asian cities, and the balance between premium experiences and everyday affordability. Finally, they explore Tourism 2040 – the roadmap to hitting between $47 and $50 billion in tourism receipts by then – and how AI can boost productivity behind the scenes, while keeping the human stories that make a place emotionally resonant. Highlights (click/tap above): 2:54 “Too hot, too boring, too expensive” 13:14 Singapore can’t change its climate, but it can make the outdoor experience more enjoyable 16:54 Singapore’s edge over other Asian cities 24:48 Going after “quality tourism” in Singapore’s Tourism 2040 roadmap 38:10 What Singapore needs to loosen control over, to be emotionally resonant Read more: https://str.sg/okfhy Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH Read Dawn's columns: https://str.sg/3xR7 Host: Tan Dawn Wei (dawntan@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb Spotify: https://str.sg/w7sV Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #inyouropinionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This year's Budget spotlights more ways to invest your CPF and how to deal with AI. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a head start in your personal finance, career and life with The Straits Times. Another year and another Budget speech, with goodies given out by PM Lawrence Wong. But is the Budget just about CDC vouchers and subsidies? What exactly is in it for young people? In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at what matters for young people in Singapore's Budget 2026. Her guests are DBS financial literacy expert Shawn Lee and OCBC executive director of wealth advisory Afdhal Rahman. Highlights (click/tap above): 2:00 How does the new investment scheme by CPF work? 4:58 What to consider before investing your CPF 11:00 SGX vs Nasdaq 14:30 AI as a central theme of the Budget 21:36 Are handouts of $200 to $400 enough for cost of living issues? 25:40 What do you want to see next in Budget 2027? Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstartSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This year's Budget spotlights more ways to invest your CPF and how to deal with AI. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a head start in your personal finance, career and life with The Straits Times. Another year and another Budget speech, with goodies given out by PM Lawrence Wong. But is the Budget just about CDC vouchers and subsidies? What exactly is in it for young people? In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at what matters for young people in Singapore's Budget 2026. Her guests are DBS financial literacy expert Shawn Lee and OCBC executive director of wealth advisory Afdhal Rahman. Highlights (click/tap above): 2:00 How does the new investment scheme by CPF work? 4:58 What to consider before investing your CPF 11:00 SGX vs Nasdaq 14:30 AI as a central theme of the Budget 21:36 Are handouts of $200 to $400 enough for cost of living issues? 25:40 What do you want to see next in Budget 2027? Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstartSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As local farms keep closing, will stockpiling, import diversification and global partnerships be enough to safeguard Singapore’s food security? Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change. The past few years have not been fertile ground for the growth of Singapore’s local farms. Many agri-food businesses have closed or scaled down their operations amid a high operating cost environment. Last November, the Singapore Food Agency finally announced that it will be dropping its original “30 by 30” target, under which Singapore aimed to produce 30 per cent of its nutritional needs locally by 2030. There are other efforts in place to safeguard the food import-dependent country’s food security, such as import diversification, stockpiling and global partnerships. But with climate change wrecking havoc on crop yields and recent geopolitical events disrupting long-standing bilateral relationships, can Singapore afford not to have a strategic plan for local production? Green Pulse hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty discuss the challenges in this episode. Have a listen and let us know what you think! Highlights of conversation (click/tap above): 3:38 Why do farms in Singapore keep closing? 10:49 What are the four pillars in Singapore’s approach to safeguarding food security? 12:48 With climate change affecting crop yields, how effective will import diversification and intergovernmental pacts be in ensuring food security? 16:05 Other than securing supplies of food, what are other areas to look at to boost food security? Read more on The Straits Times: https://str.sg/sLPM Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2 Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #greenpulseSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As local farms keep closing, will stockpiling, import diversification and global partnerships be enough to safeguard Singapore’s food security? Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change. The past few years have not been fertile ground for the growth of Singapore’s local farms. Many agri-food businesses have closed or scaled down their operations amid a high operating cost environment. Last November, the Singapore Food Agency finally announced that it will be dropping its original “30 by 30” target, under which Singapore aimed to produce 30 per cent of its nutritional needs locally by 2030. There are other efforts in place to safeguard the food import-dependent country’s food security, such as import diversification, stockpiling and global partnerships. But with climate change wrecking havoc on crop yields and recent geopolitical events disrupting long-standing bilateral relationships, can Singapore afford not to have a strategic plan for local production? Green Pulse hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty discuss the challenges in this episode. Have a listen and let us know what you think! Highlights of conversation (click/tap above): 3:38 Why do farms in Singapore keep closing? 10:49 What are the four pillars in Singapore’s approach to safeguarding food security? 12:48 With climate change affecting crop yields, how effective will import diversification and intergovernmental pacts be in ensuring food security? 16:05 Other than securing supplies of food, what are other areas to look at to boost food security? Read more on The Straits Times: https://str.sg/sLPM Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2 Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #greenpulseSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Government support measures such as CDC vouchers were meant to cushion soaring inflation. But are they fiscally sustainable? Synopsis: On Wednesdays, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests.Temporary government handouts like the CDC vouchers were meant to cushion the impact of Covid-19 and soaring inflation due to supply shocks that were caused by global events like the war in Ukraine. But with inflation cooling to trend levels, can Singaporeans wean off the ‘free money’ reliance from CDC vouchers that were meant to be temporary? In this episode - which comes out a day ahead of Budget 2026 - ST assistant podcast editor Lynda Hong speaks to independent economist Song Seng Wun; and sociologist Clara Lee, research fellow at Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy’s Institute of Policy Studies. Apart from how the CDC voucher scheme has since become a staple of the government’s support package, they delve into different forms of welfare Singaporeans now receive, and the impact on small businesses should the scheme be withdrawn. Highlights (click/tap above): 4:11 Impact on heartland merchants should CDC vouchers be withdrawn 9:42 Why are we using 'emergency' vouchers in a recovering economy? 15:49 Exiting from the policy of handing out CDC vouchers 20:43 Digital infrastructure to distribute CDC vouchers are now well-established: Clara 22:45 Redefining welfare state? Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH Host: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb Spotify: https://str.sg/w7sV Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #inyouropinion See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Government support measures such as CDC vouchers were meant to cushion soaring inflation. But are they fiscally sustainable? Synopsis: On Wednesdays, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests.Temporary government handouts like the CDC vouchers were meant to cushion the impact of Covid-19 and soaring inflation due to supply shocks that were caused by global events like the war in Ukraine. But with inflation cooling to trend levels, can Singaporeans wean off the ‘free money’ reliance from CDC vouchers that were meant to be temporary? In this episode - which comes out a day ahead of Budget 2026 - ST assistant podcast editor Lynda Hong speaks to independent economist Song Seng Wun; and sociologist Clara Lee, research fellow at Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy’s Institute of Policy Studies. Apart from how the CDC voucher scheme has since become a staple of the government’s support package, they delve into different forms of welfare Singaporeans now receive, and the impact on small businesses should the scheme be withdrawn. Highlights (click/tap above): 4:11 Impact on heartland merchants should CDC vouchers be withdrawn 9:42 Why are we using 'emergency' vouchers in a recovering economy? 15:49 Exiting from the policy of handing out CDC vouchers 20:43 Digital infrastructure to distribute CDC vouchers are now well-established: Clara 22:45 Redefining welfare state? Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH Host: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb Spotify: https://str.sg/w7sV Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #inyouropinion See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Resting too much can weaken muscles, worsening joint pain in the long run, says an expert. Synopsis: Every month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you. Problems affecting bones, joints, muscles, and tendons are the leading contributor of disability among all ages worldwide. These problems arising from musculoskeletal disorders comprise diverse conditions affecting bones, joints, muscles, and connective tissues, which may result in pain and loss of function. The disorders, which include conditions such as osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, sarcopenia, low back pain, and other degenerative conditions, are especially common in older adults. However, they are not an inevitable part of aging. In this episode, ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo talks to surgeon-scientist, Assistant Professor Bryan Tan to find out more about what one can do to prevent musculoskeletal disorders. They touched on strength training, what one can do about exercise after a flare of knee osteoarthritis, and not waiting till there is no pain to resume exercising. Prof Tan is an orthopaedic surgeon at Woodlands Hospital, and the co-chair of the musculoskeletal integrated care work group at NHG Health. Highlights (click/tap above): 3:48 What are musculoskeletal conditions? 6:55 It’s never too late to build your muscles and bones 8:45 The more you don’t use your muscles, the weaker they will become 18:21 Hyrox or not, everyone should be engaging in physical activity 20:27 How to get back to your exercise routine after a flare of your knee osteoarthritis? Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN Host: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong Follow Health Check Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/JWaN Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRX Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaQ Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #healthcheckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Resting too much can weaken muscles, worsening joint pain in the long run, says an expert. Synopsis: Every month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you. Problems affecting bones, joints, muscles, and tendons are the leading contributor of disability among all ages worldwide. These problems arising from musculoskeletal disorders comprise diverse conditions affecting bones, joints, muscles, and connective tissues, which may result in pain and loss of function. The disorders, which include conditions such as osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, sarcopenia, low back pain, and other degenerative conditions, are especially common in older adults. However, they are not an inevitable part of aging. In this episode, ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo talks to surgeon-scientist, Assistant Professor Bryan Tan to find out more about what one can do to prevent musculoskeletal disorders. They touched on strength training, what one can do about exercise after a flare of knee osteoarthritis, and not waiting till there is no pain to resume exercising. Prof Tan is an orthopaedic surgeon at Woodlands Hospital, and the co-chair of the musculoskeletal integrated care work group at NHG Health. Highlights (click/tap above): 3:48 What are musculoskeletal conditions? 6:55 It’s never too late to build your muscles and bones 8:45 The more you don’t use your muscles, the weaker they will become 18:21 Hyrox or not, everyone should be engaging in physical activity 20:27 How to get back to your exercise routine after a flare of your knee osteoarthritis? Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN Host: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong Follow Health Check Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/JWaN Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRX Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaQ Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #healthcheckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are we using phones constructively to help kids to learn or assist adults in coping? Synopsis: On Wednesdays, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests. One of the most fraught challenges of modern parenting is our love-hate relationship with screen time. From school bans on phones in school, to the everyday reality of dual-income working parents who just need their child to eat dinner in peace, how much is too much screentime and who should be responsible? Are we using phones constructively to help kids to learn or assist adults in coping? And in a dopamine fuelled always-on world where we are expected to be 24/7 ready for work, are we asking our offspring to do something we ourselves fail at? Opinion editor Lin Suling gets answers from Dr Becky, who’s been called the millennial parent whisperer by Time Magazine, on the sidelines of the 2026 World Economic Forum in Davos in January. With millions of followers on Instagram tuning into her snappy videos, Dr Rebecca Kennedy is also a bestselling author, a clinical psychologist, the CEO of Good Inside, and mother of three. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:59 Is there a place for phone bans in schools? 3:45 What’s wrong with kids watching videos during mealtimes? 5:10 Parents are always on their phones for work so why should kids listen? 8:06 Is society intolerant towards misbehaviour in restaurants, airplanes and public areas? 9:58 Might we be over-parenting? 11:23 Is there a minimum age when kids can sit by themselves? 12:40 Dr Becky’s message to people unsure about having kids Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH Host: Lin Suling (linsuling@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb Spotify: https://str.sg/w7sV Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #inyouropinionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are we using phones constructively to help kids to learn or assist adults in coping? Synopsis: On Wednesdays, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests. One of the most fraught challenges of modern parenting is our love-hate relationship with screen time. From school bans on phones in school, to the everyday reality of dual-income working parents who just need their child to eat dinner in peace, how much is too much screentime and who should be responsible? Are we using phones constructively to help kids to learn or assist adults in coping? And in a dopamine fuelled always-on world where we are expected to be 24/7 ready for work, are we asking our offspring to do something we ourselves fail at? Opinion editor Lin Suling gets answers from Dr Becky, who’s been called the millennial parent whisperer by Time Magazine, on the sidelines of the 2026 World Economic Forum in Davos in January. With millions of followers on Instagram tuning into her snappy videos, Dr Rebecca Kennedy is also a bestselling author, a clinical psychologist, the CEO of Good Inside, and mother of three. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:59 Is there a place for phone bans in schools? 3:45 What’s wrong with kids watching videos during mealtimes? 5:10 Parents are always on their phones for work so why should kids listen? 8:06 Is society intolerant towards misbehaviour in restaurants, airplanes and public areas? 9:58 Might we be over-parenting? 11:23 Is there a minimum age when kids can sit by themselves? 12:40 Dr Becky’s message to people unsure about having kids Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH Host: Lin Suling (linsuling@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb Spotify: https://str.sg/w7sV Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #inyouropinionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yes, it’s a scary time. But more than ever we need to talk about climate and nature. Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change. Right now, it seems we’re in an ‘ice age’ for climate action. Geopolitics is all we can talk about and it’s pretty much wiped climate change and nature from the headlines. Wars and conflict, trade rows, attacks on climate policies and science and the fracturing of multilateralism have created a more fraught and uncertain world. Some countries and businesses have weakened their environmental targets and policies, even as the climate and nature crises worsen. So what can be done? Can the shift to bilateral and regional climate and energy agreements replace unified global action? Can renewable energy remain a powerful uniting force? And how can we get climate and nature back into the headlines? Join hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty as they discuss these questions and more in the latest episode of The Straits Times’ Green Pulse podcast. Have a listen and let us know what you think! Highlights of conversation (click/tap above): 1:51 For all the talk of fossil fuels, renewables are stealing the show 7:59 Rush for resources and the Greenland reality check 12:59 Weakening of multilateralism is changing the way we talk about climate and nature. 18:51 Focus on climate and nature might be in a rut. What will it take to refocus minds? 25:33 The human touch. Journalists need to put people at the centre of their environment stories. Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2 Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #greenpulseSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yes, it’s a scary time. But more than ever we need to talk about climate and nature. Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change. Right now, it seems we’re in an ‘ice age’ for climate action. Geopolitics is all we can talk about and it’s pretty much wiped climate change and nature from the headlines. Wars and conflict, trade rows, attacks on climate policies and science and the fracturing of multilateralism have created a more fraught and uncertain world. Some countries and businesses have weakened their environmental targets and policies, even as the climate and nature crises worsen. So what can be done? Can the shift to bilateral and regional climate and energy agreements replace unified global action? Can renewable energy remain a powerful uniting force? And how can we get climate and nature back into the headlines? Join hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty as they discuss these questions and more in the latest episode of The Straits Times’ Green Pulse podcast. Have a listen and let us know what you think! Highlights of conversation (click/tap above): 1:51 For all the talk of fossil fuels, renewables are stealing the show 7:59 Rush for resources and the Greenland reality check 12:59 Weakening of multilateralism is changing the way we talk about climate and nature. 18:51 Focus on climate and nature might be in a rut. What will it take to refocus minds? 25:33 The human touch. Journalists need to put people at the centre of their environment stories. Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2 Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #greenpulseSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is it better to buy stocks or invest in tangible things? Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a head start in your personal finance, career and life with The Straits Times. Logan Paul’s Pokemon card has gone for over US$1 million. But do physical items and collections really help your money to grow? How do Pokemon cards, Labubus and Marvel figurines measure alongside traditional stocks as investments? In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at the stocks versus the 'stuff'. Her guests are avid collector Ian Cheng and eToro market analyst Zavier Wong. Highlights (click/tap above): 4:26 How do stocks compare with items? 8:12 Rare cards that appreciate from $100 to $600 9:00 Why did Pokemon card prices rise? 11:26 Logan Paul’s US$5 million Pokemon card 17:00 Collections that depreciated in value instead 22:08 What should I do if I want to become an investor in cards? Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstartSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is it better to buy stocks or invest in tangible things? Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a head start in your personal finance, career and life with The Straits Times. Logan Paul’s Pokemon card has gone for over US$1 million. But do physical items and collections really help your money to grow? How do Pokemon cards, Labubus and Marvel figurines measure alongside traditional stocks as investments? In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at the stocks versus the 'stuff'. Her guests are avid collector Ian Cheng and eToro market analyst Zavier Wong. Highlights (click/tap above): 4:26 How do stocks compare with items? 8:12 Rare cards that appreciate from $100 to $600 9:00 Why did Pokemon card prices rise? 11:26 Logan Paul’s US$5 million Pokemon card 17:00 Collections that depreciated in value instead 22:08 What should I do if I want to become an investor in cards? Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstartSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tech stocks still shine, but beware the bubble. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. 2025 has been a turbulent year, and 2026 will also be marked by uncertainty. So amid such global turmoil, what should we invest in? In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at how to grow your money in 2026. Her guests are Gen Z investor Kass Phai, who is also a family wealth consultant at Unicorn, and veteran market watcher Ven Sreenivasan. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:26 Where are the markets going in 2026? 7:00 Should we still buy tech stocks? 10:37 Risk vs volatility 16:00 Other sectors to invest in 22:00 Should we invest in the SGX? 29:00 Other investment assets to hold Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstartSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tech stocks still shine, but beware the bubble. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. 2025 has been a turbulent year, and 2026 will also be marked by uncertainty. So amid such global turmoil, what should we invest in? In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at how to grow your money in 2026. Her guests are Gen Z investor Kass Phai, who is also a family wealth consultant at Unicorn, and veteran market watcher Ven Sreenivasan. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:26 Where are the markets going in 2026? 7:00 Should we still buy tech stocks? 10:37 Risk vs volatility 16:00 Other sectors to invest in 22:00 Should we invest in the SGX? 29:00 Other investment assets to hold Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstartSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A counsellor of a support group reveals why some men choose to tolerate physical, emotional and psychological abuse in their marriages. Synopsis: On Wednesdays, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests. Spousal abuse cases in Singapore rose significantly in 2024 to 2,136, up from 2,008 such cases in 2023, according to the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF). While official figures did not give a breakdown of these cases by gender, the defamation case of Johnny Depp against his ex-wife Amber Heard and post-Covid-19 awareness have encouraged more men to step forward, said a counsellor who runs a specialised support group for battered husbands. To find out more in this episode, assistant podcast editor Lynda Hong speaks with Josiah Yeo, a counsellor at Lutheran Community Care Services (LCCS), who started its support group for abused husbands in 2022. Mr Yeo details how one of the abused husbands in the support group was beaten with golf clubs and made to slap himself in public. He was even locked out of the house and made to kowtow in front of the door 30 times, before he could get into his home. Apart from abusive marriages, Mr Yeo also gives some pre-marital advice on what are some red flags to look out for, especially in the dating stage. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:49 Impact of Johnny Depp’s defamation suit on men in Singapore 9:31 When do abused husbands finally walk away from a marriage? 14:05 Why men don’t confide in their friends 18:40 Three reasons men stay in abusive marriage 19:11 Breaking the "bro code": How to check on a friend without making it awkward 32:39 Dating red flags - how to spot a potential abusive spouse Read more on abused spouses: https://str.sg/aqjX Helplines Family violence National Anti-Violence & Sexual Harassment Helpline: 1800-777-0000 (24 hours) AWARE Helpline: 1800-777-5555 (weekdays, 10am to 6pm) Care Corner Project StART: 6476-1482 (weekdays 10am-1pm, 2pm-5pm; except public holidays) TOUCH Family Support: 6317-9998 Lutheran Community Care Services: 6441-3906 / connect@lccs.org.sg Mental well-being National Mindline: 1771 (24 hours) / 6669-1771 (via WhatsApp) Samaritans of Singapore: 1-767 (24 hours) / 9151-1767 (24 hours CareText via WhatsApp) Singapore Association for Mental Health: 1800-283-7019 Silver Ribbon Singapore: 6386-1928 Chat, Centre of Excellence for Youth Mental Health: 6493-6500/1 Women’s Helpline (Aware): 1800-777-5555 (weekdays, 10am to 6pm) The Seniors Helpline: 1800-555-5555 (weekdays, 9am to 5pm) Tinkle Friend (for primary school-age children): 1800-2744-788 Counselling Touchline (Counselling): 1800-377-2252 Touch Care Line (for caregivers): 6804-6555 Counselling and Care Centre: 6536-6366 We Care Community Services: 3165-8017 Shan You Counselling Centre: 6741-9293 Clarity Singapore: 6757-7990 Online resources mindline.sg/fsmh eC2.sg chat.mentalhealth.sg carey.carecorner.org.sg (for those aged 13 to 25) limitless.sg/talk (for those aged 12 to 25) Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH Host: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb Spotify: https://str.sg/w7sV Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #inyouropinionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A counsellor of a support group reveals why some men choose to tolerate physical, emotional and psychological abuse in their marriages. Synopsis: On Wednesdays, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests. Spousal abuse cases in Singapore rose significantly in 2024 to 2,136, up from 2,008 such cases in 2023, according to the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF). While official figures did not give a breakdown of these cases by gender, the defamation case of Johnny Depp against his ex-wife Amber Heard and post-Covid-19 awareness have encouraged more men to step forward, said a counsellor who runs a specialised support group for battered husbands. To find out more in this episode, assistant podcast editor Lynda Hong speaks with Josiah Yeo, a counsellor at Lutheran Community Care Services (LCCS), who started its support group for abused husbands in 2022. Mr Yeo details how one of the abused husbands in the support group was beaten with golf clubs and made to slap himself in public. He was even locked out of the house and made to kowtow in front of the door 30 times, before he could get into his home. Apart from abusive marriages, Mr Yeo also gives some pre-marital advice on what are some red flags to look out for, especially in the dating stage. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:49 Impact of Johnny Depp’s defamation suit on men in Singapore 9:31 When do abused husbands finally walk away from a marriage? 14:05 Why men don’t confide in their friends 18:40 Three reasons men stay in abusive marriage 19:11 Breaking the "bro code": How to check on a friend without making it awkward 32:39 Dating red flags - how to spot a potential abusive spouse Read more on abused spouses: https://str.sg/aqjX Helplines Family violence National Anti-Violence & Sexual Harassment Helpline: 1800-777-0000 (24 hours) AWARE Helpline: 1800-777-5555 (weekdays, 10am to 6pm) Care Corner Project StART: 6476-1482 (weekdays 10am-1pm, 2pm-5pm; except public holidays) TOUCH Family Support: 6317-9998 Lutheran Community Care Services: 6441-3906 / connect@lccs.org.sg Mental well-being National Mindline: 1771 (24 hours) / 6669-1771 (via WhatsApp) Samaritans of Singapore: 1-767 (24 hours) / 9151-1767 (24 hours CareText via WhatsApp) Singapore Association for Mental Health: 1800-283-7019 Silver Ribbon Singapore: 6386-1928 Chat, Centre of Excellence for Youth Mental Health: 6493-6500/1 Women’s Helpline (Aware): 1800-777-5555 (weekdays, 10am to 6pm) The Seniors Helpline: 1800-555-5555 (weekdays, 9am to 5pm) Tinkle Friend (for primary school-age children): 1800-2744-788 Counselling Touchline (Counselling): 1800-377-2252 Touch Care Line (for caregivers): 6804-6555 Counselling and Care Centre: 6536-6366 We Care Community Services: 3165-8017 Shan You Counselling Centre: 6741-9293 Clarity Singapore: 6757-7990 Online resources mindline.sg/fsmh eC2.sg chat.mentalhealth.sg carey.carecorner.org.sg (for those aged 13 to 25) limitless.sg/talk (for those aged 12 to 25) Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH Host: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb Spotify: https://str.sg/w7sV Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #inyouropinionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lab-grown meat. The way of the future or a hard act to swallow? Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change. In this episode, hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty get their teeth into cultivated meat, a topic that was very much in the headlines a few years back. Singapore was the first nation to approve the sale of cultivated chicken meat in 2020 but investment in the sector, after much fanfare, has slowed. So is there still potential for this sector to take off? The pay-off could be huge if companies can create safe, tasty and affordable beef, chicken, lamb and even seafood in bioreactors instead of relying on huge tracts of land and the sea. Meeting the needs of billions of people, could slash the impacts on the environment and cut greenhouse gas emissions. Is this your vision of the future? Or still too soon to say? Let us know what you think! Highlights of conversation (click/tap above): 2:24 What is the difference between cultivated meat and plant-based alternatives? 3:24 Why the interest in cultivated meat? What are the environmental benefits? 6:20 How cultivated meat products are made and why is the process challenging? 12:14 If companies succeed, the prize could be huge but there are still hurdles 20:32 Stay the course: Cultivated meat could become an important tool to fight climate change 23:04 Better information, better decisions by consumers. For instance: CO2 content labels on food products Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2 Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #greenpulseSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lab-grown meat. The way of the future or a hard act to swallow? Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change. In this episode, hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty get their teeth into cultivated meat, a topic that was very much in the headlines a few years back. Singapore was the first nation to approve the sale of cultivated chicken meat in 2020 but investment in the sector, after much fanfare, has slowed. So is there still potential for this sector to take off? The pay-off could be huge if companies can create safe, tasty and affordable beef, chicken, lamb and even seafood in bioreactors instead of relying on huge tracts of land and the sea. Meeting the needs of billions of people, could slash the impacts on the environment and cut greenhouse gas emissions. Is this your vision of the future? Or still too soon to say? Let us know what you think! Highlights of conversation (click/tap above): 2:24 What is the difference between cultivated meat and plant-based alternatives? 3:24 Why the interest in cultivated meat? What are the environmental benefits? 6:20 How cultivated meat products are made and why is the process challenging? 12:14 If companies succeed, the prize could be huge but there are still hurdles 20:32 Stay the course: Cultivated meat could become an important tool to fight climate change 23:04 Better information, better decisions by consumers. For instance: CO2 content labels on food products Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2 Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #greenpulseSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Learn how to better reconcile the mixed feelings that come with work transitions. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. It seems like one of life’s cruel ironies. Do well, and go far together in a bonded team, and yet further progression may require you to move on elsewhere. If this is a familiar scenario to you, fear not. ST correspondent Tay Hong Yi hosts Mr Aneel Singh Gill, a psychologist with Talk Your Heart Out, an online and face-to-face therapy platform. He helps clients navigate work-related issues. Hong Yi, who has been with The Straits Times since 2021, is also hosting in his final podcast as he transitions to a new role elsewhere - and what better topic to talk about than this? Highlights (click/tap above): 2:07 Why might someone feel a sense of loss despite exciting times ahead? 4:13 How to identify and reconcile mixed feelings towards impending change 11:59 Looking past “Stockholm syndrome” after leaving a toxic workplace 15:22 What makes the transition from school to first job especially hard Read an askST Jobs column on leaving well-loved colleagues: https://str.sg/qGTR Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy Host: Tay Hong Yi Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstartSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Learn how to better reconcile the mixed feelings that come with work transitions. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. It seems like one of life’s cruel ironies. Do well, and go far together in a bonded team, and yet further progression may require you to move on elsewhere. If this is a familiar scenario to you, fear not. ST correspondent Tay Hong Yi hosts Mr Aneel Singh Gill, a psychologist with Talk Your Heart Out, an online and face-to-face therapy platform. He helps clients navigate work-related issues. Hong Yi, who has been with The Straits Times since 2021, is also hosting in his final podcast as he transitions to a new role elsewhere - and what better topic to talk about than this? Highlights (click/tap above): 2:07 Why might someone feel a sense of loss despite exciting times ahead? 4:13 How to identify and reconcile mixed feelings towards impending change 11:59 Looking past “Stockholm syndrome” after leaving a toxic workplace 15:22 What makes the transition from school to first job especially hard Read an askST Jobs column on leaving well-loved colleagues: https://str.sg/qGTR Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy Host: Tay Hong Yi Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstartSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As AI reshapes work and life, schools are changing too. But before we redesign education, should we ask what it’s really for? Synopsis: On Wednesdays, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests. Education is one of the few institutions almost every Singaporean passes through - and one of the most contested. From debates about declining attention spans to rising anxiety, we now wonder about the role of artificial intelligence in classrooms. Questions about standards, equity, excellence and inclusion continue to surface. Schools are expected to prepare students not just for jobs, but for citizenship and for lives that feel meaningful. Sometimes these expectations are in tension with one another as we grapple with the AI revolution that’s underway. In this episode, we ask a more fundamental question: What purpose does education serve in a world increasingly driven by technology and AI? And how should our answers change when the world students are entering - shaped by AI and rapid technological change - may look radically different from the one schools were designed for? Joining the discussion with Deputy Opinion Editor Mubin Saadat are Ms Elisha Tushara, The Straits Times education correspondent who spent a decade teaching before moving into journalism, and Dr Liu Woon Chia, Director and researcher at the National Institute of Education and co-founder of its Motivation in Educational Research Laboratory. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:30 AI impact on education 11:55 What do PISA and OECD studies tell us? 15: 03 Friction in learning 19:35 A focus on human qualities in learning 26:35 AI as a teacher’s tool Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH Host: Mubin Saadat (mubin@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb Spotify: https://str.sg/w7sV Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #inyouropinionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As AI reshapes work and life, schools are changing too. But before we redesign education, should we ask what it’s really for? Synopsis: On Wednesdays, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests. Education is one of the few institutions almost every Singaporean passes through - and one of the most contested. From debates about declining attention spans to rising anxiety, we now wonder about the role of artificial intelligence in classrooms. Questions about standards, equity, excellence and inclusion continue to surface. Schools are expected to prepare students not just for jobs, but for citizenship and for lives that feel meaningful. Sometimes these expectations are in tension with one another as we grapple with the AI revolution that’s underway. In this episode, we ask a more fundamental question: What purpose does education serve in a world increasingly driven by technology and AI? And how should our answers change when the world students are entering - shaped by AI and rapid technological change - may look radically different from the one schools were designed for? Joining the discussion with Deputy Opinion Editor Mubin Saadat are Ms Elisha Tushara, The Straits Times education correspondent who spent a decade teaching before moving into journalism, and Dr Liu Woon Chia, Director and researcher at the National Institute of Education and co-founder of its Motivation in Educational Research Laboratory. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:30 AI impact on education 11:55 What do PISA and OECD studies tell us? 15: 03 Friction in learning 19:35 A focus on human qualities in learning 26:35 AI as a teacher’s tool Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH Host: Mubin Saadat (mubin@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb Spotify: https://str.sg/w7sV Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #inyouropinionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The science of getting unstuck from OCD in four days. Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you. Obsessive-compulsive disorder or OCD is often misunderstood. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is frequently misunderstood. Although the term is often used casually, it is a potentially severe disorder that can drastically disrupt a person's life. However, it is highly treatable. Yet, many people remain undiagnosed and untreated for years. To learn more about OCD, ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo talks to two psychologists who specialise in the treatment of OCD for a two-part series on what the disorder is about and how the Bergen approach treats OCD in just four days? They are Dr Jackki Yim, Principal Clinical Psychologist & Deputy Head of Anxiety Service, Department of Mood & Anxiety at the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) and Ms Tammie Kwek, Senior Clinical Psychologist, Department of Mood & Anxiety, IMH. Highlights (click/tap above): 2:56 How is OCD treated? 6:00 What does the Bergen treatment entail? 11:00 Is it for everyone suffering from OCD? 14:05 What is the “homework” that patients have to do? 21:52 How should families accommodate a family member living with OCD? Listen to OCD Part 1: The hidden reality and a new way out - https://str.sg/yBjG Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN Host: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong Follow Health Check Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/JWaN Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRX Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaQ Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #healthcheckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The science of getting unstuck from OCD in four days. Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you. Obsessive-compulsive disorder or OCD is often misunderstood. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is frequently misunderstood. Although the term is often used casually, it is a potentially severe disorder that can drastically disrupt a person's life. However, it is highly treatable. Yet, many people remain undiagnosed and untreated for years. To learn more about OCD, ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo talks to two psychologists who specialise in the treatment of OCD for a two-part series on what the disorder is about and how the Bergen approach treats OCD in just four days? They are Dr Jackki Yim, Principal Clinical Psychologist & Deputy Head of Anxiety Service, Department of Mood & Anxiety at the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) and Ms Tammie Kwek, Senior Clinical Psychologist, Department of Mood & Anxiety, IMH. Highlights (click/tap above): 2:56 How is OCD treated? 6:00 What does the Bergen treatment entail? 11:00 Is it for everyone suffering from OCD? 14:05 What is the “homework” that patients have to do? 21:52 How should families accommodate a family member living with OCD? Listen to OCD Part 1: The hidden reality and a new way out - https://str.sg/yBjG Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN Host: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong Follow Health Check Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/JWaN Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRX Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaQ Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #healthcheckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

OCD is more than a quirk. Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you. Obsessive-compulsive disorder or OCD is often misunderstood. Although the term OCD is often used casually, it is a potentially severe disorder that can drastically disrupt a person's life. However, it is highly treatable. Yet, many people remain undiagnosed and untreated for years. To learn more about OCD, ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo talks to two psychologists who specialise in the treatment of OCD for a two-part series on what the disorder is about and how a new treatment can help. They are Dr Jackki Yim, Principal Clinical Psychologist & Deputy Head of Anxiety Service, Department of Mood & Anxiety at the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) and Ms Tammie Kwek, Senior Clinical Psychologist, Department of Mood & Anxiety, IMH. Highlights (click/tap above): 3:37 Clearing misunderstandings about OCD 5:46 An example of OCD 11:19 How can parents respond to their children who have OCD? Listen to OCD Part 2: 4-day treatment and the Bergen approach - https://str.sg/hZaB Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN Host: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong Follow Health Check Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/JWaN Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRX Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaQ Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #healthcheckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

OCD is more than a quirk. Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you. Obsessive-compulsive disorder or OCD is often misunderstood. Although the term OCD is often used casually, it is a potentially severe disorder that can drastically disrupt a person's life. However, it is highly treatable. Yet, many people remain undiagnosed and untreated for years. To learn more about OCD, ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo talks to two psychologists who specialise in the treatment of OCD for a two-part series on what the disorder is about and how a new treatment can help. They are Dr Jackki Yim, Principal Clinical Psychologist & Deputy Head of Anxiety Service, Department of Mood & Anxiety at the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) and Ms Tammie Kwek, Senior Clinical Psychologist, Department of Mood & Anxiety, IMH. Highlights (click/tap above): 3:37 Clearing misunderstandings about OCD 5:46 An example of OCD 11:19 How can parents respond to their children who have OCD? Listen to OCD Part 2: 4-day treatment and the Bergen approach - https://str.sg/hZaB Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN Host: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong Follow Health Check Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/JWaN Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRX Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaQ Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #healthcheckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Green Pulse hosts share what’s worth looking out for on the environmental front in Singapore and South-east Asia Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change. For the first episode of 2026, Green Pulse hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty discuss whether the new year will add wind to the sails of the climate movement, or whether it will be another year of climate action being stuck in the doldrums. David seems optimistic about certain developments, such as the entry into force of the High Seas Treaty. But Audrey is more cautious on other fronts. Singapore’s carbon tax is expected to go up from $25 per tonne of emissions in 2025 to $45 per tonne in 2026 and 2027, but will “allowances” given to emitters dampen the signal a carbon tax is supposed to send? Who do you agree with? Let us know! Highlights of conversation (click/tap above): 1:45 Key events for 2026 - High Seas Treaty ahoy! 5:33 Can climate agreements really deliver on their promises? 11:03 ‘Less talk, more tangible action this year, please.’ 16:43 What’s the weather forecast for 2026? 19:31 Let’s talk about positive things – will global CO2 emissions peak in 2026? 23:08 To sum up: Good to be cautiously optimistic – it’s not all gloomy! Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2 Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #greenpulseSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Green Pulse hosts share what’s worth looking out for on the environmental front in Singapore and South-east Asia Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change. For the first episode of 2026, Green Pulse hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty discuss whether the new year will add wind to the sails of the climate movement, or whether it will be another year of climate action being stuck in the doldrums. David seems optimistic about certain developments, such as the entry into force of the High Seas Treaty. But Audrey is more cautious on other fronts. Singapore’s carbon tax is expected to go up from $25 per tonne of emissions in 2025 to $45 per tonne in 2026 and 2027, but will “allowances” given to emitters dampen the signal a carbon tax is supposed to send? Who do you agree with? Let us know! Highlights of conversation (click/tap above): 1:45 Key events for 2026 - High Seas Treaty ahoy! 5:33 Can climate agreements really deliver on their promises? 11:03 ‘Less talk, more tangible action this year, please.’ 16:43 What’s the weather forecast for 2026? 19:31 Let’s talk about positive things – will global CO2 emissions peak in 2026? 23:08 To sum up: Good to be cautiously optimistic – it’s not all gloomy! Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2 Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #greenpulseSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Which means of various green transportation can decarbonise the most? Synopsis: Every 3rd Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times examines not just vehicle prices but wider transport issues and trends connected to public and private transport. From October 2026, travellers departing Singapore will contribute to the purchase of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). But is this levy enough to tackle aviation’s carbon problem? Hosted by ST senior transport correspondent Lee Nian Tjoe, the panel - comprising Mr Andrey Berdichevskiy, partner and associate director of Boston Consulting Group and Professor S. Viswanathan from Nanyang Business School - discusses the hard-to-abate aviation sector, the true cost of green flying, and whether we should rethink that long-haul trip to visit the northern lights. Back on the ground, the conversation shifts to the return of the Robo-taxi. Are autonomous vehicles the solution to our “last mile” woes in estates like Punggol? Plus, the experts share practical advice on the “Avoid, Shift, Improve” framework, from taking the train to KL, to swapping a steak for a salad in helping commuters to keep it “wheel and green”. This episode was recorded and filmed on Dec 2 at SPH Media’s revamped auditorium, in front of a live audience of 60 ST readers. It was the sixth and final ST Podcast Live! Session for 2025, capping a special series celebrating The Straits Times’ 180th anniversary. Highlights (click/tap above): 01:43 The cost of greening skies in Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and for flights out of SG 04:45 Why increasing ticket prices doesn’t dampen travelling 12:09 A practical framework for greener mobility choices, from Zoom calls to high-speed rail 19:47 The return of autonomous vehicles like the Robo-taxi 31:38 From giving up the car to adopting a "flexitarian" diet - what else can individuals? Read Lee Nian Tjoe's articles: https://str.sg/wt8G Follow Lee Nian Tjoe on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/iqkJ Read more COE articles: https://str.sg/iGKC Host: Lee Nian Tjoe (niantjoel@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Eden Soh Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong Follow Wheel Insights Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/iTtE Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/iqW2 Spotify: https://str.sg/iqgB Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #wheelinsightsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How to turn anger about environmental issues into constructive action in Singapore and beyond. Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change. With the world settling for yet another watered down deal at the UN climate conference COP30, combating climate change is in an uphill battle. Some activists have even taken matters into their own hands to provoke stronger action. In November, climate activist Greta Thunberg joined environmental group Extinction Rebellion in dyeing the waters of Venice’s iconic canals green with a non-toxic liquid to highlight the effects of climate collapse. In this episode co-hosted by ST environment correspondents Shabana Begum and Ang Qing, they discuss whether individual actions can help make a meaningful difference to the global problem. They are joined by Mr Veerappan Swaminathan, chief executive officer of consultancy Sustainable Living Lab (SL2) Group. He also co-founded Repair Kopitiam, an initiative that helps residents fix their household items to reduce waste. Also unpacking the issues is National University of Singapore assistant professor Alisius Leong, who investigates public opinions on environmental and health issues. This episode was recorded and filmed on Dec 2 at SPH Media’s revamped auditorium, in front of a live audience of 60 ST readers. It was the sixth and final ST Podcast Live! Session for 2025, capping a special series celebrating The Straits Times’ 180th anniversary. Highlights (click/tap above): 3:36 How can individual actions make a difference 12:56 Do protests about climate change work 18:12 Which environmental issues in Singapore deserve more attention 25:36 How can the public participate in conversations about nuclear energy SG Eco Fund:: https://www.mse.gov.sg/take-action/sgecofund/ Repair Kopitiam: https://repairkopitiam.sg/ Resources for workplaces and workers: https://str.sg/Hup2 Heat stress levels: https://str.sg/5WrT Follow Ang Qing on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ichp Read her articles: https://str.sg/i5gT Follow Shabana Begum on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/83Ge Read her articles: https://str.sg/5EGd Hosts: Ang Qing (aqing@sph.com.sg) & Shabana Begum (nshab@sph.com.sg) Produced by: ST Podcast Team, ST Outreach & Engagement Team & Studio+65 Edited by: Hadyu Rahim Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX Watch ST Podcasts Live events so far: https://str.sg/uGmoSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How to turn anger about environmental issues into constructive action in Singapore and beyond. Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change. With the world settling for yet another watered down deal at the UN climate conference COP30, combating climate change is in an uphill battle. Some activists have even taken matters into their own hands to provoke stronger action. In November, climate activist Greta Thunberg joined environmental group Extinction Rebellion in dyeing the waters of Venice’s iconic canals green with a non-toxic liquid to highlight the effects of climate collapse. In this episode co-hosted by ST environment correspondents Shabana Begum and Ang Qing, they discuss whether individual actions can help make a meaningful difference to the global problem. They are joined by Mr Veerappan Swaminathan, chief executive officer of consultancy Sustainable Living Lab (SL2) Group. He also co-founded Repair Kopitiam, an initiative that helps residents fix their household items to reduce waste. Also unpacking the issues is National University of Singapore assistant professor Alisius Leong, who investigates public opinions on environmental and health issues. This episode was recorded and filmed on Dec 2 at SPH Media’s revamped auditorium, in front of a live audience of 60 ST readers. It was the sixth and final ST Podcast Live! Session for 2025, capping a special series celebrating The Straits Times’ 180th anniversary. Highlights (click/tap above): 3:36 How can individual actions make a difference 12:56 Do protests about climate change work 18:12 Which environmental issues in Singapore deserve more attention 25:36 How can the public participate in conversations about nuclear energy SG Eco Fund:: https://www.mse.gov.sg/take-action/sgecofund/ Repair Kopitiam: https://repairkopitiam.sg/ Resources for workplaces and workers: https://str.sg/Hup2 Heat stress levels: https://str.sg/5WrT Follow Ang Qing on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ichp Read her articles: https://str.sg/i5gT Follow Shabana Begum on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/83Ge Read her articles: https://str.sg/5EGd Hosts: Ang Qing (aqing@sph.com.sg) & Shabana Begum (nshab@sph.com.sg) Produced by: ST Podcast Team, ST Outreach & Engagement Team & Studio+65 Edited by: Hadyu Rahim Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX Watch ST Podcasts Live events so far: https://str.sg/uGmoSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A young entrepreneur shares why, and how, she is moving on from a student business she co-founded. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. Imagine starting a business after finishing your A-level exams, and then growing that business from strength to strength with two outlets in the heart of town within five years alongside your undergraduate studies. Now imagine making the tough decision to take all that one has learned into a new adventure: the first job, one that was never on the radar previously. That is the journey of a young entrepreneur who speaks to ST correspondent Tay Hong Yi on the latest episode of Headstart On Record. The guest was: Ms Desiree Chang, co-founder of Woofie, a thrift and vintage apparel business with an online store and two outlets in Bugis. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:22 How did the business start? 3:03 How was it like to balance studies with a business? 6:52 Finding a sustainable middle-ground in entrepreneurship 11:42 How did the skills learned translate into her job search? 15:52 Tips for aspiring student entrepreneurs Read Tay Hong Yi's articles: https://str.sg/w6cz Follow Tay Hong Yi on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/AAxy Host: Tay Hong Yi (hytay@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstartSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New laws were passed to penalise littering, eating and drinking, as well as playing loud music or videos on public transport. Is legislation effective in regulating inconsiderate behaviour? Synopsis: Every second Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests. Behaviours of inconsiderate commuters on public transport and interchanges are set to be regulated under new laws passed in Parliament in Oct 2025. Examples of inconsiderate behaviour include littering, eating and drinking, as well as playing loud music and videos on mobile phones. The latest legislation follows a slew of laws that regulate behaviours in Singapore, raising the question if we can ever shake off Singapore’s reputation of being a ‘fine’ city. To find out more, ST assistant podcast editor Lynda Hong speaks to two sociologists. They are Assistant Professor of Sociology (Education) at the School of Social Sciences at the Singapore Management University, George Wong; and Research Assistant Professor and head of the Urban Psychology Lab in the Lee Kuan Yew Centre for Innovative Cities at the Singapore University of Technology and Design, Samuel Chng. Highlights (click/tap above): 11:24 How people demonstrated civic behaviour during the Covid pandemic 18:25 The technological reason for seniors blasting videos and music 22:28 Empowering bus drivers to deal with inconsiderate commuters 26:10 How other countries regulate civil behaviours in public transport 29:46 The lady commuter that ‘broke’ the system Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH Host: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Chen Junyi Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb Spotify: https://str.sg/w7sV Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #inyouropinionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A psychiatrist's guide to your child's emotional well-being. Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you. Many parents spend time teaching their kids essential skills like reading or spelling but they often forget to teach them a key skill that will determine their success, their relationships, and their overall happiness. That is emotional regulation. In this episode, ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo talks to Dr Ong Say How, a child and adolescent psychiatrist. He’s the chairperson of creative services and youth committee at SAMH and a senior consultant psychiatrist at the Institute of Mental Health. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:49 What exactly is emotional regulation? 6:40 Signs that a child might be struggling emotionally 11:14 It’s ok to tell your children that you’re concerned about them 15:00 Screen time limits can help with a child’s ability to handle boredom and regulate mood 20:51 Parents must be role models 22:24 What parents can do to repair the damage after losing their cool? 24:13 You don’t have to shield your child from negative feelings Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN Host: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong Follow Health Check Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/JWaN Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRX Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaQ Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #healthcheckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A psychiatrist's guide to your child's emotional well-being. Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you. Many parents spend time teaching their kids essential skills like reading or spelling but they often forget to teach them a key skill that will determine their success, their relationships, and their overall happiness. That is emotional regulation. In this episode, ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo talks to Dr Ong Say How, a child and adolescent psychiatrist. He’s the chairperson of creative services and youth committee at SAMH and a senior consultant psychiatrist at the Institute of Mental Health. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:49 What exactly is emotional regulation? 6:40 Signs that a child might be struggling emotionally 11:14 It’s ok to tell your children that you’re concerned about them 15:00 Screen time limits can help with a child’s ability to handle boredom and regulate mood 20:51 Parents must be role models 22:24 What parents can do to repair the damage after losing their cool? 24:13 You don’t have to shield your child from negative feelings Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN Host: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong Follow Health Check Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/JWaN Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRX Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaQ Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #healthcheckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re not Scrooges, we just want a less wasteful Christmas. Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change. Christmas is just around the corner, and many are diving into frantic gift shopping and feast planning. But as Green Pulse hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty ask in this episode, do these traditions really spark joy – or do they just add clutter, waste and unnecessary spending? Tune in for practical tips on a clutter-free, eco-friendly Christmas, from smarter gift-giving to reducing food and packaging waste. Do you agree with their takes, or are they just being Christmas grinches? Highlights of conversation (click/tap above): 2:00 How to give sustainable gifts that people actually want 6:30 Regifting – faux pas or a sustainability win? 8:17 Is Christmas gift wrapping environmentally friendly? 15:11 The lowdown on reducing food waste at Christmas feasts 18:10 The debate over real vs fake Christmas trees Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2 Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #greenpulseSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re not Scrooges, we just want a less wasteful Christmas. Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change. Christmas is just around the corner, and many are diving into frantic gift shopping and feast planning. But as Green Pulse hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty ask in this episode, do these traditions really spark joy – or do they just add clutter, waste and unnecessary spending? Tune in for practical tips on a clutter-free, eco-friendly Christmas, from smarter gift-giving to reducing food and packaging waste. Do you agree with their takes, or are they just being Christmas grinches? Highlights of conversation (click/tap above): 2:00 How to give sustainable gifts that people actually want 6:30 Regifting – faux pas or a sustainability win? 8:17 Is Christmas gift wrapping environmentally friendly? 15:11 The lowdown on reducing food waste at Christmas feasts 18:10 The debate over real vs fake Christmas trees Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2 Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #greenpulseSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gold prices have soared in 2025 but here are things to consider before buying your first gold bar. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. Gold has never looked shinier, especially as a safe haven in a volatile world. It reached highs when things were the most volatile, with Trump’s tariffs and then the federal government shutdown. But should you buy gold, how do you go about it and what are the considerations to be taken first? In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at how to make good use of the current gold rally. Her guests are OCBC Managing Director of Investment Strategy Vasu Menon and ST business journalist Timothy Goh. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:34 Why have gold prices been soaring? 6:50 What does gold as a “safe haven” mean? 10:02 Is this the right time to buy gold? 16:00 When do gold prices come down? 19:56 Physical gold versus paper gold 24:13 Tips for first-time gold investors Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstartSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The popular Parking.SG app was supposed to help parking wardens issue summons. What happened? Synopsis: Every 3rd Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times examines not just vehicle prices but wider transport issues and trends connected to public and private transport. The Parking.SG app handles a million sessions a month, with under half of them being ended early and the motorist getting a refund. Half of them are Apple users, and the rest use Android smartphones. To think that it all began as a project to help the parking warden. In this episode, host and senior transport correspondent Lee Nian Tjoe speaks with Ms Amelia Fong, the product manager for Parking.sg and a policy officer at Open Government Products (OGP), a division of the Government Technology Agency of Singapore. Highlights (click/tap above): 2:21 The technology behind the original Parking.SG app 4:00 User statistics 8:00 Considerations to make the app senior-friendly 11:56 Annual hackathon for new technology solutions 19:00 Keeping the app working 24/7 20:57 Becoming a product manager at OGP Learn more about Parking.SG: https://www.parking.sg/ Read Lee Nian Tjoe's articles: https://str.sg/wt8G Follow Lee Nian Tjoe on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/iqkJ Read more COE articles: https://str.sg/iGKC Host: Lee Nian Tjoe (niantjoel@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Teo Tong Kai Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong Follow Wheel Insights Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/iTtE Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/iqW2 Spotify: https://str.sg/iqgB Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #wheelinsightsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why climate conferences are the only forum that can unite the world in fighting climate change. Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change. Annual UN climate conferences, or COPs, have become giant gatherings that bring together governments, business, scientists, civil society and much more, showing the world wants to fight climate change, showcase solutions and rewire the global economy. But can COP30 and future climate summits really make a difference to heatwaves, floods, green jobs and climate finance – or are they just full of hot air? Join Green Pulse hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty as they unpack why climate COPs matter to everyday lives, jobs and politics in South-east Asia and beyond. Highlights of conversation (click/tap above): 1:59 Why are climate COPs so important? 3:40 More money needed for adaptation investments and tools to measure progress 7:46 How to scale climate cash up to US$1.3 trillion a year – that level of funding could transform communities in SE Asia 10:39 COPs: A showcase for solutions to cut emissions and boost adaptation 18:33 Boosting green jobs as nations focus on cutting emissions 22:49 The Paris Agreement targets: Driving regional partnerships to boost green investments and strengthen climate politics 26:31: A tale of the hare and the tortoise…. Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2 Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #greenpulseSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why climate conferences are the only forum that can unite the world in fighting climate change. Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change. Annual UN climate conferences, or COPs, have become giant gatherings that bring together governments, business, scientists, civil society and much more, showing the world wants to fight climate change, showcase solutions and rewire the global economy. But can COP30 and future climate summits really make a difference to heatwaves, floods, green jobs and climate finance – or are they just full of hot air? Join Green Pulse hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty as they unpack why climate COPs matter to everyday lives, jobs and politics in South-east Asia and beyond. Highlights of conversation (click/tap above): 1:59 Why are climate COPs so important? 3:40 More money needed for adaptation investments and tools to measure progress 7:46 How to scale climate cash up to US$1.3 trillion a year – that level of funding could transform communities in SE Asia 10:39 COPs: A showcase for solutions to cut emissions and boost adaptation 18:33 Boosting green jobs as nations focus on cutting emissions 22:49 The Paris Agreement targets: Driving regional partnerships to boost green investments and strengthen climate politics 26:31: A tale of the hare and the tortoise…. Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2 Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #greenpulseSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More holidays a year sounds great but ensure they stay within budget by using these hacks. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. Instead of saving for a home, young people are now saving for travel and leisure. Over half of young workers said saving for trips is among their top financial goals, a survey showed. So travel is clearly a top of mind issue for Singaporeans. But how do we budget for three trips a year? In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at how to achieve your vacation dreams. Her guests are Revolut’s Head of Strategy and Operations Ashley Thomas and ST travel journalist Sarah Stanley. Highlights (click/tap above): 2:23 How early do you plan for 2026’s trips? 4:00 Are more people doing three holidays a year? 8:00 How to set budgets for a trip 16:22 Using AI to plan holidays 18:00 Where are the upcoming popular spots? 21:00 Travel deals and ways to save money Read Sue-Ann Tan's articles: https://str.sg/mvSa Follow Sue-Ann Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/A86X Host: Sue-Ann Tan (suetan@sph.com.sg) Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong & Joanna Seow Follow Headstart On Record Podcast channel here: Channel: https://str.sg/wB2m Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wuN3 Spotify: https://str.sg/wBr9 Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties. --- #headstartSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apart from their vocation, teachers also handle administrative work and counselling. Synopsis: Every second Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests. Teachers in Singapore work longer than their peers in other advanced economies. They spend less time teaching but more on planning, counselling and communicating with students’ parents, according to the Teaching and Learning International Survey (Talis) released on Oct 7, 2025. In total, the Talis survey polled 194,000 teachers in 55 education systems across Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries. Teachers in Singapore work an average of 47.3 hours a week, higher than the overall average of 41 hours. Approximately 3,500 teachers and respective school principals across all 145 public secondary schools and 10 randomly selected private secondary schools participated in the survey from April to August 2024. In this episode, ST assistant podcast editor Lynda Hong examines why this is happening, and whether there is any way their workload and stress can be reduced. In the studio with her is Ms Sarah Tan, a former secondary school teacher with 17 years of experience and taught till 2020, but now gives tuition. She is also a mother of two children aged 13 and 15. Mr Manogaran Suppiah was formerly the principal of Anderson Serangoon Junior College. He first started out teaching for 16 years, before moving to different departments within the Ministry of Education, including becoming the founding executive director of Academy of Singapore Teachers (AST). In 2022, he retired from his career spanning over 40 years. Highlights (click/tap above): 7:23 Teacher workload: Why it has gone up 11:08 How technology adds to and can also lighten workload 14:10 Learning to use AI tools? 18:18 Administrative duties, parents' expectations 23:20 On teachers having to 'parent' students? 28:43 Mid-career switches from other professions to teaching: Different perspectives 30:00 Why education leaders must find out from teachers what is meaningless 33:08 School leaders, heads of departments and teachers: What's lacking? Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH Host: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong Follow In Your Opinion Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/w7Qt Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/wukb Spotify: https://str.sg/w7sV Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #inyouropinionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Boys who slept nine hours or more every night had a lower obesity risk and less dangerous fat. Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you. A recent A*Star study found that boys who slept at least nine hours every night had a 51 per cent lower obesity risk and less abdominal fat. Abdominal fat, particularly fat around internal organs, is more strongly linked to metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease than overall body weight. Published in the journal Obesity (Oct 2025), the study used MRI imaging to examine how sleep habits relate to fat distribution in 10-year-olds in Singapore. In this episode, host and ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo finds out more from the study’s authors Dr Cai Shirong and Dr Navin Michael, about the importance of sleep and how sleep deprivation can increase the risk of obesity and overweight in children. Dr Cai And Dr Navin are principal scientists from the A*Star Institute for Human Development and Potential. Highlights (click/tap above): 4:48 Does catching up on sleep during the weekend reduce the risk of obesity? 7:07 Why was there a weaker association between sleep deprivation and obesity in girls? 8:00 Prevalence of obesity in children and adolescents 15:45 Why do we prefer burgers over salad when we are sleep deprived? 17:38 Sleep can help regulate cognition in children 19:43 Examples of caffeinated beverages consumed by children Check out ST's new series, No health without mental health: https://str.sg/mentalhealthmatters Read Joyce Teo's stories: https://str.sg/JbxN Host: Joyce Teo (joyceteo@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Amirul Karim Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong Follow Health Check Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/JWaN Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRX Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaQ Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #healthcheckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Vital need for insurance to bridge the region’s ‘protection gap’ and drive the green transition. Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change. Insurance is a safety net and is increasingly vital as climate change risks grow and as more people, homes and businesses are in the path of disaster. But in South-east Asia, the majority of people do not have access to insurance. And the region is facing worsening threats from floods, sea-level rise and heat stress. Only 5 to 7 per cent of all climate-related losses are insured in South-east Asia, says Mr Daniel Fairweather, head of food security systems and biodiversity at Howden, an insurance broking firm. But there is plenty of hope to bridge this “protection gap”, he tells Green Pulse podcast hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty. There are insurance products that can help communities when disaster strikes by rapidly releasing cash payments to meet emergency needs. Mutualised insurance risk pools that combine premiums can also pay out in times of need. Two things are key: Insurers need to work closely with governments and businesses to better assess climate risks and vulnerabilities. Secondly, spread the financial risk by building connections across the region, such as linking up local and national insurance mechanisms, such as risk pools. “Every risk is insurable,” Mr Fairweather says, adding that insurance coverage is also critical to accelerate green investments in the region. Have a listen, and let us know what you think! Highlights of conversation (click/tap above): 1:04 What are some of South-east Asia’s top climate change risks? 4:51 Will insurance losses increase mainly because of climate change or for other reasons, too? 9:10 What are some of the insurance products that can protect communities in the region? 16:06 In some places in the US, insurance coverage has been withdrawn. What’s the reason for this? 24:28 What about the role of insurance in boosting green initiatives in South-east Asia. Is it a catalyst? 28:28 Can the insurance industry thrive despite the rapid march of climate change? Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2 Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #greenpulseSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Vital need for insurance to bridge the region’s ‘protection gap’ and drive the green transition. Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change. Insurance is a safety net and is increasingly vital as climate change risks grow and as more people, homes and businesses are in the path of disaster. But in South-east Asia, the majority of people do not have access to insurance. And the region is facing worsening threats from floods, sea-level rise and heat stress. Only 5 to 7 per cent of all climate-related losses are insured in South-east Asia, says Mr Daniel Fairweather, head of food security systems and biodiversity at Howden, an insurance broking firm. But there is plenty of hope to bridge this “protection gap”, he tells Green Pulse podcast hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty. There are insurance products that can help communities when disaster strikes by rapidly releasing cash payments to meet emergency needs. Mutualised insurance risk pools that combine premiums can also pay out in times of need. Two things are key: Insurers need to work closely with governments and businesses to better assess climate risks and vulnerabilities. Secondly, spread the financial risk by building connections across the region, such as linking up local and national insurance mechanisms, such as risk pools. “Every risk is insurable,” Mr Fairweather says, adding that insurance coverage is also critical to accelerate green investments in the region. Have a listen, and let us know what you think! Highlights of conversation (click/tap above): 1:04 What are some of South-east Asia’s top climate change risks? 4:51 Will insurance losses increase mainly because of climate change or for other reasons, too? 9:10 What are some of the insurance products that can protect communities in the region? 16:06 In some places in the US, insurance coverage has been withdrawn. What’s the reason for this? 24:28 What about the role of insurance in boosting green initiatives in South-east Asia. Is it a catalyst? 28:28 Can the insurance industry thrive despite the rapid march of climate change? Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2 Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops: Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa --- Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section: The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX --- #greenpulseSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.