Podcasts about st podcasts

Grief is a painful, individual emotional and physical response to a significant loss. But it can be managed. Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you. Grief is a painful, individual emotional and physical response to a significant loss.Death, divorce, the loss of a home or a job, fast declining health are among the major events that people grieve. To learn more about coping with grief, ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo speaks to Lin Jing, a counsellor from the Singapore Association for Mental Health. SAMH is one of the few social service agencies focusing on mental health here that operates a general helpline for the public at 1800-283-7019 They also discuss what is grief counselling about. If your grief feels like it's too much to bear, please reach out for help. We have included more helplines below. Highlights (click/tap above): 9:00 When should you consider grief counselling? 12:45 When guilt is thrown into the picture 23:00 Understanding cognitive behaviourial therapy, grief counselling and grief therapy 29:10 Building a life around the loss of a child… 32:00 Appearing strong and unaffected by grief, when you are crumbling inside 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 --- Helplines Mental well-being National helpline: 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) --- #healthcheckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How to cope with losing a sense of normalcy in your life. Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you. Loss is an inevitable part of life, and grief is our response to any significant loss. To learn more about coping with grief, ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo speaks to Lin Jing, a counsellor from the Singapore Association for Mental Health. SAMH is one of the few social service agencies focusing on mental health here that operates a general helpline for the public at 1800-283-7019 They also discuss what is grief counselling about. If your grief feels like it's too much to bear, please reach out for help. We have included more helplines below. Highlights (click/tap above): 9:00 When should you consider grief counselling? 12:45 When guilt is thrown into the picture 23:00 Understanding cognitive behaviourial therapy, grief counselling and grief therapy 29:10 Building a life around the loss of a child… 32:00 Appearing strong and unaffected by grief, when you are crumbling inside 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 --- Helplines Mental well-being National helpline: 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) --- #healthcheckSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Beijing’s message was clear: We are a great power and a force for good. Synopsis: Every fourth Friday of the month, The Straits Times will now analyse the hottest political and trending talking points, alternating between its Malaysia and China bureaus. For September, host and deputy foreign editor Albert Wai connects again with senior China correspondent Yew Lun Tian. They revisit the 2025 China Victory Day Parade, focusing on Beijing’s message to the world and what it reveals in terms of foreign policy preoccupations. China’s WWII narrative was loud and clear: We have come a long way from being a victim to a great power. Additionally, the communist party is now strong enough to protect the nation. For the domestic audience, the event was a great source of pride and served to galvanise the people during a time of great power rivalry with Washington. Taken together with the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Forum and the Xiangshan Forum on defence matters, September was a high-key month for China’s narrative building efforts as a responsible global player. It sought to portray itself as a great power with friends, while leading the call for a new security order. Looking ahead, it remains to be seen if China’s narrative shaping efforts would strengthen its hand when dealing with the United States. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:14 What is the big deal about the parade? 2:34 Futuristic weapons under the spotlight 5:21 Indonesian President Prabowo gets prime seat 6:57 Why WWII history matters to the Chinese government 8:49 Massive logistical preparations before the event 11:03 Do Chinese people still feel anger or resentment towards the war? 16:10 The West didn’t want to endorse China’s WWII narrative 17:30 China’s vision for a new security order 20:32 Looking ahead: APEC in South Korea and a Trump-Xi meeting Read more: https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/china-showcases-military-diplomatic-prowess-at-parade-attended-by-putin-kim Register for Asian Insider newsletter: https://str.sg/stnewsletters Host: Albert Wai (albertw@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani & Natasha Liew Executive producer: Ernest Luis Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here: Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7 Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8 Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX 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 --- #STAsianInsiderSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Public transport operators SMRT and SBS Transit have been catching some heat lately, following a spate of at least 15 instances of rail delays and interruptions since July. Synopsis: Join Natasha Ann Zachariah at The Usual Place every Thursday as she unpacks the latest current affairs with guests.In the first three weeks of September, there were six incidents occurring due to train faults or signalling issues. Meanwhile, the Land Transport Authority figures show the MRT network’s reliability over 12 months ending June 2025 fell to its lowest level since 2020. It’s understandable why commuters are frustrated.Upgrades have been made to refresh ageing MRT lines, and new lines have been added. Plus, MRT and bus fares for adults went up by 10 cents in December 2024. Yet, troubles persist. Earlier this week in Parliament, Acting Minister for Transport Jeffrey Siow answered a range of questions from MPs about the matter, and spoke about follow-ups that the operators and LTA were working on together. Was it an adequate response to the spate of disruptions, which have included hours-long disruptions on the East-West Line and Sengkang-Punggol LRT system in August? What else can be done to restore commuters’ confidence in our public transport systems?In this episode of The Usual Place, I chatted with: Former ST senior transport correspondent Christopher Tan, who has covered Singapore’s transport scene since 1989, and Dr Samuel Chng, a research assistant professor who heads the Urban Psychology Lab in the Lee Kuan Yew Centre for Innovative Cities at the Singapore University of Technology and Design. Highlights (click/tap above): 2:16 A review of Mr Siow’s parliament debut 5:36 New trains, refreshed lines, so why the disruptions? 11:16 Is it fair to say the incidents are unrelated? 17:56 Plan Bs and Cs when trains go down 20:19 Not an apple-to-apple comparison with other cities’ 25:13 What does MKBF mean for a commuter? 30:22 Expectations of the new rail reliability task force 35:28 With most trips running smoothly, is our frustration justified? 38:36 Mr Siow’s report card so far Host: Natasha Ann Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg) Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN Filmed by: Studio+65 Edited by: Eden Soh, Teo Tong Kai, Natasha Liew and Chen Junyi Executive producers: Danson Cheong, Elizabeth Khor & Ernest Luis Editorial producer: Lynda Hong Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday: Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast 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 -- #tup #tuptrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Beijing’s message was clear: We are a great power and a force for good. Synopsis: Every fourth Friday of the month, The Straits Times will now analyse the hottest political and trending talking points, alternating between its Malaysia and China bureaus. For September, host and deputy foreign editor Albert Wai connects again with senior China correspondent Yew Lun Tian. They revisit the 2025 China Victory Day Parade, focusing on Beijing’s message to the world and what it reveals in terms of foreign policy preoccupations. China’s WWII narrative was loud and clear: We have come a long way from being a victim to a great power. Additionally, the communist party is now strong enough to protect the nation. For the domestic audience, the event was a great source of pride and served to galvanise the people during a time of great power rivalry with Washington. Taken together with the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Forum and the Xiangshan Forum on defence matters, September was a high-key month for China’s narrative building efforts as a responsible global player. It sought to portray itself as a great power with friends, while leading the call for a new security order. Looking ahead, it remains to be seen if China’s narrative shaping efforts would strengthen its hand when dealing with the United States. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:14 What is the big deal about the parade? 2:34 Futuristic weapons under the spotlight 5:21 Indonesian President Prabowo gets prime seat 6:57 Why WWII history matters to the Chinese government 8:49 Massive logistical preparations before the event 11:03 Do Chinese people still feel anger or resentment towards the war? 16:10 The West didn’t want to endorse China’s WWII narrative 17:30 China’s vision for a new security order 20:32 Looking ahead: APEC in South Korea and a Trump-Xi meeting Read more: https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/china-showcases-military-diplomatic-prowess-at-parade-attended-by-putin-kim Register for Asian Insider newsletter: https://str.sg/stnewsletters Host: Albert Wai (albertw@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani & Natasha Liew Executive producer: Ernest Luis Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here: Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7 Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8 Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX 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 --- #STAsianInsiderSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pickleball has been a smash hit in Singapore over the past couple of years, but not everyone’s a fan. Synopsis: Join Natasha Ann Zachariah at The Usual Place every Thursday as she unpacks the latest current affairs with guests. The game has attracted players of all ages looking to learn a new skill, keep active or meet fellow ‘picklers’. On the flip side, pickleball has sparked complaints from residents living near Housing Board courts, who say the games are too noisy and disrupt the peace. Last week, a Straits Times report looked into the tensions that have arisen amid pickleball’s growing popularity. Complaints have surfaced on online forums, while angry residents have aired their grievances on social media and written in to ST’s Forum page. MPs and town councils have stepped in with measures, though these vary across neighbourhoods. They include restricting playing times for games, switching off the lights at courts after a particular time, and even banning pickleball from badminton courts, thus reducing the opportunities for play. (Pickleball courts are nearly identical in size to badminton courts, but smaller than tennis courts.) The backlash against the game has been frustrating for players, who are competing to book spaces at ActiveSG facilities, as demand balloons. There are private courts, but they are a more expensive option. In this episode of The Usual Place, I spoke with: - Jeremy Soh, founder of pickleball club Performance Pickleball who picked up the sport less than two years ago; and - Assistant Professor Nurul Amillin Hussain, a social scientist from Nanyang Technological University. What made the game popular, and can pickleball players and residents find common ground? Also, why do tensions keep arising over sports in the heartlands? Highlights (click/tap above): 2:00 Is pickleball a real sport? 7:13 A good sport to repopulate urban spaces 10:03 How much does it cost to get started? 12:43 Facing complaints when playing in public courts 17:40 Are we more intolerant than before? 19:35 Silent balls can help, so why don’t players use them? 27:48 Is noise in the ear of the beholder? 29:41 Is pickleball just a fad? Host: Natasha Ann Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg) Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN Filmed by: Studio+65 Edited by: Eden Soh, Teo Tong Kai, Natasha Liew and Chen Junyi Executive producers: Danson Cheong, Elizabeth Khor & Ernest Luis Editorial producer: Lynda Hong Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday: Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast 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 -- #tup #tuptrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How a 36-year-old will be racing on the Marina Bay Street Circuit in Oct 2025 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. Host and senior transport correspondent Lee Nian Tjoe chats with Mr Roy Tang, who puts in his best effort as a financial adviser to fund his racing. Instead of stepping on the brakes after a high-speed accident on track, he goes full throttle and will be competing in the Porsche Carrera Cup during the Singapore Grand Prix weekend. Follow Roy’s racing exploits on his Instagram account: @onemantank Highlights (click/tap above): 4:36 Competing in Europe’s Formula 4, a category for karters to transition to professional racing 9:15 Racing in the dangerous Macau Grand Prix circuit 13:00 Surviving a 229kmh traffic accident 17:10 Committing to the Porsche Carrera Cup 19:37 Driving 1,000km on the simulator to prepare for the big race 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.

Public, private and philanthropic money is proving to be a successful mix to accelerate climate action. 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. When it comes to climate action, financiers are increasingly turning to the Three Ps to find the cash they need: Public, private and philanthropic money. With trillions of dollars needed annually to shift the world away from polluting fossil fuels, cash-strapped governments don’t have the financial muscle to do this. Much of the money needs to come from the private sector, with philanthropy providing a much needed boost. This mix of money from all three, called blended finance, is designed to be cheaper concessional capital. It helps de-risk early-stage investments, especially in developing nations, and helps attract more investors. In 2023, climate blended finance totalled US$18.3 billion, up from about US$6 billion in 2015. But while the amount is growing, it’s still a fraction of what is needed. Are there positive signs blended finance can be significantly scaled up? And is there a risk only certain types of projects will be attractive candidates for blended finance? Join Green Pulse hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty as they discuss these questions in this episode. Have a listen and let us know your thoughts! Highlights of conversation (click/tap above): 1:13 What is blended finance? 5:16 Why is blended finance becoming increasingly talked about? 8:52 What are some of the projects in Asia that could benefit? 10:40 How much money has been flowing into blended finance, especially for climate projects? 13:04 But what are some of the drawbacks – is there a risk that some types of projects will miss out? 18:06 COP30: If a roadmap for US$1.3 trillion in climate finance is sketched out, this could be a big boost. 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.

Public, private and philanthropic money is proving to be a successful mix to accelerate climate action. 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. When it comes to climate action, financiers are increasingly turning to the Three Ps to find the cash they need: Public, private and philanthropic money. With trillions of dollars needed annually to shift the world away from polluting fossil fuels, cash-strapped governments don’t have the financial muscle to do this. Much of the money needs to come from the private sector, with philanthropy providing a much needed boost. This mix of money from all three, called blended finance, is designed to be cheaper concessional capital. It helps de-risk early-stage investments, especially in developing nations, and helps attract more investors. In 2023, climate blended finance totalled US$18.3 billion, up from about US$6 billion in 2015. But while the amount is growing, it’s still a fraction of what is needed. Are there positive signs blended finance can be significantly scaled up? And is there a risk only certain types of projects will be attractive candidates for blended finance? Join Green Pulse hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty as they discuss these questions in this episode. Have a listen and let us know your thoughts! Highlights of conversation (click/tap above): 1:13 What is blended finance? 5:16 Why is blended finance becoming increasingly talked about? 8:52 What are some of the projects in Asia that could benefit? 10:40 How much money has been flowing into blended finance, especially for climate projects? 13:04 But what are some of the drawbacks – is there a risk that some types of projects will miss out? 18:06 COP30: If a roadmap for US$1.3 trillion in climate finance is sketched out, this could be a big boost. 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.

Find out how to discern the hallmarks of employers who do well. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. Host and ST correspondent Tay Hong Yi chats with Mr Richard Cooper, business leader for benefits for Mercer Marsh Benefits in Singapore. Mr Cooper advises organisations on how to design healthcare benefits, insurance, flexi-benefits and related processes. The ability to take leave from work for medical and personal reasons is a cornerstone of modern work. However, it might not always be clear what a good benefits policy looks like, and when an employer is actually stingy or overbearing with what they require staff to do. Do you have such experiences? Highlights (click/tap above): 3:00 How job requirements shape benefits policies 4:51 What are best practices employers adopt? 9:58 What does overreach look like? 13:42 Are employees obliged to plan their leave periods around work? 16:47 Should we expect enough employers to keep reserve capacity? 23:22 Why can Nordic countries afford extensive leave? 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/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 --- #headstartSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Find out how to discern the hallmarks of employers who do well. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. Host and ST correspondent Tay Hong Yi chats with Mr Richard Cooper, business leader for benefits for Mercer Marsh Benefits in Singapore. Mr Cooper advises organisations on how to design healthcare benefits, insurance, flexi-benefits and related processes. The ability to take leave from work for medical and personal reasons is a cornerstone of modern work. However, it might not always be clear what a good benefits policy looks like, and when an employer is actually stingy or overbearing with what they require staff to do. Do you have such experiences? Highlights (click/tap above): 3:00 How job requirements shape benefits policies 4:51 What are best practices employers adopt? 9:58 What does overreach look like? 13:42 Are employees obliged to plan their leave periods around work? 16:47 Should we expect enough employers to keep reserve capacity? 23:22 Why can Nordic countries afford extensive leave? 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/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 --- #headstartSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why it's significant that China and India declare they are not rivals but partners. Synopsis: Every second Friday of the month, The Straits Times’ senior columnist Ravi Velloor distils 40 years of experience covering the Asian continent, with expert guests. In this episode, Ravi speaks with Dr Henry Huiyao Wang, co-founder and head of the Centre for China and Globalisation, a non-government think tank in Beijing, about the Chinese view on recent developments in Sino-Indian ties, and the summit in early August between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Dr Wang says perceptions that India may be dragged by fellow Quad nations into diluting its non-aligned instincts, and the lack of exchanges during the prolonged Covid-19 shutdowns, contributed to a chill in ties. The Xi-Modi summit in Tianjin revives hope of vastly improved ties, and China’s close ties with Pakistan, and improving ties with India, could contribute to peace on the sub-continent, he adds. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:05 What went so wrong when things seemed to be going right 4:00 The ‘Quad’ factor in ties 10:05 India is nobody’s quisling 13:15 China’s reasons to mend fences 14:45 The Russia factor 16:30 Belts and Roads 19:30 How China views recent US-India troubles Host: Ravi Velloor (velloor@sph.com.sg) Read Ravi's columns: https://str.sg/3xRP Follow Ravi on X: https://twitter.com/RaviVelloor Register for Asian Insider newsletter: https://str.sg/stnewsletters Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani Executive producer: Ernest Luis Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here: Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7 Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8 Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX 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 --- #STAsianInsiderSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gen Zs are out here skipping the alcohol, but not the party. Synopsis: Join Natasha Ann Zachariah at The Usual Place every Thursday as she unpacks the latest current affairs with guests. In daytime or earlier-evening parties, a growing number of young people in Singapore are heading to raves, cafes and clubs to vibe to sick beats – with matchas and coffees in hand. I’m not a clubber by any means, but I’m curious why Gen Zs are embracing this sober partying movement wholeheartedly.Back in my day, pre-gaming with alcohol before the club, checking out different venues, and ending the night at a supper joint at 3am were the highlights of those nights out.What changed for Gen Zs and what does this mean for the nightlife scene here?In this episode of The Usual Place, I spoke with: Kavan Spruyt, co-founder of Rasa Space, who has worked with renowned venues like Berghain in Berlin, and Kyo in Singapore; and Shahan Shah Shawn, one of the Gen Z co-founders of Exposure Therapy, a company that organises events that redefine what a party can look like. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:42 What does partying sober mean? 3:56 How high costs kill the party 12:20 What’s driving the rise of day time parties? 15:50 Is this trend mirrored in the nightlife scene overseas? 19:20 The Gen Z flex: going to the gym at 5am 25:25 Do Gen Zs find alcohol uncool? Host: Natasha Ann Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg) Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN Filmed by: Studio+65 Edited by: Eden Soh, Teo Tong Kai Executive producers: Danson Cheong, Elizabeth Khor & Ernest Luis Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday: Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast 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 -- #tup #tuptrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why it's significant that China and India declare they are not rivals but partners. Synopsis: Every second Friday of the month, The Straits Times’ senior columnist Ravi Velloor distils 40 years of experience covering the Asian continent, with expert guests. In this episode, Ravi speaks with Dr Henry Huiyao Wang, co-founder and head of the Centre for China and Globalisation, a non-government think tank in Beijing, about the Chinese view on recent developments in Sino-Indian ties, and the summit in early August between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Dr Wang says perceptions that India may be dragged by fellow Quad nations into diluting its non-aligned instincts, and the lack of exchanges during the prolonged Covid-19 shutdowns, contributed to a chill in ties. The Xi-Modi summit in Tianjin revives hope of vastly improved ties, and China’s close ties with Pakistan, and improving ties with India, could contribute to peace on the sub-continent, he adds. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:05 What went so wrong when things seemed to be going right 4:00 The ‘Quad’ factor in ties 10:05 India is nobody’s quisling 13:15 China’s reasons to mend fences 14:45 The Russia factor 16:30 Belts and Roads 19:30 How China views recent US-India troubles Host: Ravi Velloor (velloor@sph.com.sg) Read Ravi's columns: https://str.sg/3xRP Follow Ravi on X: https://twitter.com/RaviVelloor Register for Asian Insider newsletter: https://str.sg/stnewsletters Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani Executive producer: Ernest Luis Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here: Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7 Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8 Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX 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 --- #STAsianInsiderSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Could less waiting time reduce stress on a marriage and how can couples strengthen their relationships in the face of life challenges? Synopsis: Every second Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests. With HDB planning to introduce more Shorter Waiting Time (SWT) Build-To-Order (BTO) flats, buyers can expect to collect keys in under three years, reducing the amount of stress on the couple relationship, say an economist and a counsellor. How can young couples decide if they have found the right life partners to take on the wait for a BTO flat? In this episode, ST assistant podcast editor Lynda Hong hosts two guests. Thr first is National University of Singapore's Professor of Real Estate and Economics Sumit Agarwal. He penned a study on the correlation between early marriages, a higher propensity for divorce and waiting times for a BTO, that was featured in the third book in a series - Kiasunomics 3: Economic Insights For Everyday Life. The book overall, analyses the influence and consequences of economic decisions in Singapore. The second is Mr Neo Eng Huat, a counsellor with over 20 years of experience with helping couples. Highlights (click/tap above): 2:10 Post-Covid: BTO one of the few affordable options for young couples 4:00 The effect of BTO-waiting on marriage 14:11 Is it good to have 'effective fighting' between couples? 18:07 When is it time to cut short your losses? 24:15 Money matters in a marriage Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH Host: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Natasha Liew and 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.

Could less waiting time reduce stress on a marriage and how can couples strengthen their relationships in the face of life challenges? Synopsis: Every second Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests. With HDB planning to introduce more Shorter Waiting Time (SWT) Build-To-Order (BTO) flats, buyers can expect to collect keys in under three years, reducing the amount of stress on the couple relationship, say an economist and a counsellor. How can young couples decide if they have found the right life partners to take on the wait for a BTO flat? In this episode, ST assistant podcast editor Lynda Hong hosts two guests. Thr first is National University of Singapore's Professor of Real Estate and Economics Sumit Agarwal. He penned a study on the correlation between early marriages, a higher propensity for divorce and waiting times for a BTO, that was featured in the third book in a series - Kiasunomics 3: Economic Insights For Everyday Life. The book overall, analyses the influence and consequences of economic decisions in Singapore. The second is Mr Neo Eng Huat, a counsellor with over 20 years of experience with helping couples. Highlights (click/tap above): 2:10 Post-Covid: BTO one of the few affordable options for young couples 4:00 The effect of BTO-waiting on marriage 14:11 Is it good to have 'effective fighting' between couples? 18:07 When is it time to cut short your losses? 24:15 Money matters in a marriage Read ST’s Opinion section: https://str.sg/w7sH Host: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Natasha Liew and 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.

Single Chinese want to find love, but remain straitjacketed by expectations of what their partners should look like. Synopsis: Every first Friday of the month, The Straits Times catches up with its foreign correspondents about life and trends in the countries they're based in. Inequality is at play in China’s singles market in more ways than one. In China, the number of men outstrip that of women, and yet, they find it far easier to find marriage partners. At the same time, both genders are trapped by familial and their own expectations to marry within the same social bracket, in the face of a growing divide between the elites and the broader generation. China correspondent Michelle Ng unpacks the dynamics with host and ST foreign editor Li Xueying. Highlights (click/tap above): 0:49 Attending a matchmaking event in Beijing 2:55 Screening for income 5:40 A paradox in the marriage market 9:04 Anxiety of the rich 12:29 Lack of social mixing Read Michelle Ng’s article here: https://str.sg/jMu4 Read Li Xueying’s articles: https://str.sg/iqmR Follow Li Xueying on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ip4x Register for Asian Insider newsletter: https://str.sg/stnewsletters Host: Li Xueying (xueying@sph.com.sg) Edited by: Fa’izah Sani Executive producer: Ernest Luis Follow Asian Insider on Fridays here: Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7 Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8 Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX 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 --- #STAsianInsiderSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Single Chinese want to find love, but remain straitjacketed by expectations of what their partners should look like. Synopsis: Every first Friday of the month, The Straits Times catches up with its foreign correspondents about life and trends in the countries they're based in. Inequality is at play in China’s singles market in more ways than one. In China, the number of men outstrip that of women, and yet, they find it far easier to find marriage partners. At the same time, both genders are trapped by familial and their own expectations to marry within the same social bracket, in the face of a growing divide between the elites and the broader generation. China correspondent Michelle Ng unpacks the dynamics with host and ST foreign editor Li Xueying. Highlights (click/tap above): 0:49 Attending a matchmaking event in Beijing 2:55 Screening for income 5:40 A paradox in the marriage market 9:04 Anxiety of the rich 12:29 Lack of social mixing Read Michelle Ng’s article here: https://str.sg/jMu4 Read Li Xueying’s articles: https://str.sg/iqmR Follow Li Xueying on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ip4x Register for Asian Insider newsletter: https://str.sg/stnewsletters Host: Li Xueying (xueying@sph.com.sg) Edited by: Fa’izah Sani Executive producer: Ernest Luis Follow Asian Insider on Fridays here: Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7 Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8 Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX 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 --- #STAsianInsiderSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As a nation of foodies, we watch the food and beverage (F&B) scene closely to see who comes and goes. Synopsis: Join Natasha Ann Zachariah at The Usual Place every Thursday as she unpacks the latest current affairs with guests. In recent months, the headlines have been dominated by farewells as home-grown restaurants, bakeries, bars and even dining chains have called it a day. This week’s casualty: Prive Group, which operated cafes and the Empress restaurant at the Asian Civilisations Museum. Its restaurants closed on Aug 31. It has been a difficult year for the industry, which has seen other big names such as Eggslut and Burger & Lobster exit, modern European restaurants Imbue and one-Michelin-starred Poise shutter, and popular chains like Haidilao close outlets. Is it just about rent hikes, and could it be that we, as diners, are part of the problem - always chasing the next hot concept? In this episode of The Usual Place, I spoke with two veterans who are in the F&B scene in different ways: Mr Bjorn Shen, a consultant and chef-owner of Artichoke and Small’s in New Bahru with “22 years of cooking” STFood Online editor Eunice Quek, who has been reporting on the industry for about 15 years Highlights (click/tap above): 6:08 Bjorn explains why F&B owners have no choice at times but to pay higher rents 9:10 Are landlords the problem or are manpower costs a bigger issue? 12:53 “It’s always about chasing something new,” says Eunice on food trends; Crazy about Chinese and Korean cuisine now? 17:45 Singaporeans are not as adventurous as we think we are, says Bjorn about our foodie nation status 27:49 Should the Government step in with measures to help F&B business owners? 36:50 Singapore vs other countries: Bjorn breaks down what works and what doesn’t Host: Natasha Ann Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg) Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN Follow STFood Online on IG: https://www.instagram.com/straitstimesfood Filmed by: Studio+65 Edited by: Eden Soh, Teo Tong Kai & Natasha Liew Executive producers: Danson Cheong, Elizabeth Khor & Ernest Luis Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday: Channel: https://str.sg/5nfm Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijX Spotify: https://str.sg/cd2P YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast 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 -- #tup #tuptrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You can appear lean but have insufficient muscle mass and too much body fat. Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you. A local paper has found that 1 in 4 young women, despite having a normal weight, had low muscle mass, weak bones and high body fat. This increases their future risks for not only osteoporosis and muscle loss but metabolic diseases like diabetes and obesity. ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo speaks to the paper’s authors to find out more. Lead author Dr Mya Thway Tint is a principal scientist at the A*STAR Institute for Human Development and Potential (IHDP) and an Adjunct Assistant Professor at the Dean's Office, NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine. Professor Johan Eriksson is the Executive Director of A*STAR IHDP and highly knowledgeable about the S-PRESTO study, or the Singapore Preconception Study of Long-Term Maternal and Child Outcomes cohort study, which the paper is part of. He was previously a professor at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, and the chief physician at Helsinki University Central Hospital in Finland. Highlights (click/tap above): 2:50 Having a normal BMI and low bone density 5:03 You have to exercise to grow bone 10:29 Using bioimpedance or bioelectrical impedance analysis to measure body composition 13:53 What is considered an unhealthy body fat percentage level? 19:56 What can we do to improve our bone health? 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.

You can appear lean but have insufficient muscle mass and too much body fat. Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you. A local paper has found that 1 in 4 young women, despite having a normal weight, had low muscle mass, weak bones and high body fat. This increases their future risks for not only osteoporosis and muscle loss but metabolic diseases like diabetes and obesity. ST senior health correspondent Joyce Teo speaks to the paper’s authors to find out more. Lead author Dr Mya Thway Tint is a principal scientist at the A*STAR Institute for Human Development and Potential (IHDP) and an Adjunct Assistant Professor at the Dean's Office, NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine. Professor Johan Eriksson is the Executive Director of A*STAR IHDP and highly knowledgeable about the S-PRESTO study, or the Singapore Preconception Study of Long-Term Maternal and Child Outcomes cohort study, which the paper is part of. He was previously a professor at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, and the chief physician at Helsinki University Central Hospital in Finland. Highlights (click/tap above): 2:50 Having a normal BMI and low bone density 5:03 You have to exercise to grow bone 10:29 Using bioimpedance or bioelectrical impedance analysis to measure body composition 13:53 What is considered an unhealthy body fat percentage level? 19:56 What can we do to improve our bone health? 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.

Starting with Punggol, The Straits Times looks at how a city in nature can co-exist with wildlife. 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 recent months, a globally endangered monkey has unsettled Singapore’s youngest housing estate Punggol, with dozens of reports made against long-tailed macaques for entering human homes. In turn, the authorities have responded to the wild monkeys, which are not considered threatened in the Republic, with an arsenal of measures that range from sterilisation to pelting them with water gel guns, a move that made headlines in August. Following ST’s award-winning Green Trails podcast, co-hosts Ang Qing and Shabana Begum return to discuss human-wildlife coexistence in Singapore with Mr Kalaivanan Balakrishnan, chief executive of the Animal Concerns Research and Education Society (Acres) and Ms Jasvic Lye, campaign manager of Our Wild Neighbours, an outreach initiative. Find out more about how solutions to manage urban wildlife – and people’s acceptance of the animals – can be improved. This episode was recorded and filmed last month in front of an intimate live audience of 95 people who packed The Fashion Pulpit in Jalan Besar. The evening was part of the ST Podcast Live! Sessions celebrating 180 years of The Straits Times. Highlights of conversation (click/tap above): 1:12 Gaps in Singapore’s approach to human-wildlife conflict 10:16 Biggest challenges when managing conflict 14:25 Common myths about wildlife that Singaporeans buy into 18:10 How wildlife can guide city planning 22:45 What young people can do to better manage human-wildlife encounters How we can beat the heat in Singapore: https://str.sg/952d More on Our Wild Neighbours: https://str.sg/K8Jw More on Animal Concerns Research & Education Society (Acres): https://str.sg/F6c6 Acres Wildlife Rescue Centre sanctuary expansion fundraiser: https://str.sg/v443 Discover ST’s award-winning Green Trails series: https://str.sg/rL6r 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 and edited by: Amirul Karim 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.

Starting with Punggol, The Straits Times looks at how a city in nature can co-exist with wildlife. 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. SINGAPORE - In recent months, a globally endangered monkey has unsettled Singapore’s youngest housing estate Punggol, with dozens of reports made against long-tailed macaques for entering human homes. In turn, the authorities have responded to the wild monkeys, which are not considered threatened in the Republic, with an arsenal of measures that range from sterilisation to pelting them with water gel guns, a move that made headlines in August. These solutions, however, are just a matter of playing “catch up” with a situation that could have been anticipated as the northern neighbourhood was once forested land, wildlife rescue veteran Kalaivanan Balakrishnan told The Straits Times during a podcast recording published on Sept 3. The chief executive of the Animal Concerns Research and Education Society (Acres) said: “In the case of Punggol, we should have known at least a decade ago, when the developments were happening, that one day, this will happen because back then, there were already macaques there.” Following ST’s award-winning Green Trails podcast, co-hosts Ang Qing and Shabana Begum return to discuss human-wildlife coexistence in Singapore with Mr Kalaivanan and Ms Jasvic Lye, campaign manager of Our Wild Neighbours, an outreach initiative. Have a listen to this new episode of Green Pulse to find out more about how solutions to manage urban wildlife – and people’s acceptance of the animals – can be improved. This episode was recorded and filmed in front of a live audience at The Fashion Pulpit in Jalan Besar as part of the ST Podcast Live! Sessions celebrating 180 years of The Straits Times. Highlights of conversation (click/tap above): 1:12 Gaps in Singapore’s approach to human-wildlife conflict 10:16 Biggest challenges when managing conflict 14:25 Common myths about wildlife that Singaporeans buy into 18:10 How wildlife can guide city planning 22:45 What young people can do to better manage human-wildlife encounters How we can beat the heat in Singapore: https://str.sg/952d More on Our Wild Neighbours: https://str.sg/K8Jw More on Animal Concerns Research & Education Society (Acres): https://str.sg/F6c6 Acres Wildlife Rescue Centre sanctuary expansion fundraiser: https://str.sg/v443 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 and edited by: Amirul Karim 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.

Investing should not be about timing the market, but growing money over the long term. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. Day trading is exciting - all the watching of stock movements and trying to buy low, sell high. But experts often say, hold for the long term, and use the benefit of compounding. What does that mean? How long exactly is the long haul and what does holding for the long term mean? In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at investing for the long-term future, rather than the here and now. Her guests are Group Head, Deposit and Wealth Management, UOB Gidon Jerome Kessel and Leong Ji Keet, a financial blogger at SG Money Guide. Highlights (click/tap above): 3:00: What does investing for the long term mean? 6:23 Which assets should I buy for long-term investing? 8:00 How long is a long-term investment? 14:45 Long-term strategies vs day trading 15:49 Are high-yield bank accounts investments? 19:00 Investing for retirement 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 --- #headstartSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Synopsis: Join Natasha Ann Zachariah at The Usual Place every Thursday as she unpacks the latest current affairs with guests. Headlines about the job prospects of fresh graduates haven’t been reassuring lately. And reports over the last year indicate that more graduates are struggling to land full-time roles, with more taking on freelance, part-time or temporary work. Some young people document their job hunting processes on social media, lamenting that they send out as many as 100 resumes over a few months and go for multiple interviews, but nothing lands. On Aug 22, the Government announced a new traineeship scheme to help new graduates gain industry-relevant experience and skills that will help them transition into full-time employment. Under the Graduate Industry Traineeships (GRIT) and GRIT@Gov programmes, up to 800 positions for a period of three to six months across various private and public sectors will be available.Graduates from the Institute of Technical Education (ITE), polytechnics and universities can start applying from October. Trainees will receive a monthly allowance ranging from $1,800 to $2,400 for the duration of their stint. How will this programme make a difference for graduates worried about their career prospects? And what does the current landscape mean for young people trying to get their first full-time job? In this episode of The Usual Place, Manpower Minister Tan See Leng addressed feedback about Grit and shared his thoughts about how graduates can navigate an uncertain and challenging job market.Also on the podcast were two university graduates: Dave Peter Ho, a business administration graduate who turned to selling products by livestreaming on TikTok after a futile nine-month job search. He graduated in Dec 2024. Muhammad Syakir Moharum, who graduated in 2025 with a degree in public policy and global affairs and is about to start looking for a job Highlights (click/tap above): 7:38 GRIT scheme is about addressing anxieties ahead of a slowdown: Dr Tan 16:30 Keep open mind, be flexible: Dr Tan’s tips for fresh grads on what an ideal career is 20:35 Getting rejected frequently pushed Dave to apply for random jobs in a rage 27:59 How Syakir feels about putting himself out in a gloomy job market; Dave on becoming a TikTok livestreamer 47:03 Will the lower salary offered in the GRIT programme cause companies to low-ball new staff? 53:23 Advice & tips to peers: Syakir & Dave Host: Natasha Ann Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg) Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN Filmed by: Studio+65 Edited by: Teo Tong Kai & Eden Soh Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong, Danson Cheong & Elizabeth Khor Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday:Channel: https://str.sg/5nfmApple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijXSpotify: https://str.sg/cd2PYouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcastFeedback 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 --- #tup #tuptrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The coming months will see several changes in the political landscape as parties make moves on various fronts. Synopsis: Every fourth Friday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the hottest political and trending talking points, alternating between its Malaysia and China bureaus. In this episode, ST’s Malaysia bureau chief Shannon Teoh and host Tan Tam Mei are joined by Ibrahim Suffian, also known as Ben, the co-founder and programs director of Merdeka Center for Opinion Research. With Malaysia’s opposition Parti Islam SeMalaysia (PAS) holding its annual conference in September, and the 17th Sabah election that is likely happening by year-end, what is on the horizon for Malaysia’s political scene? Highlights (click/tap above): 3:32 PAS no longer just a supporting actor in Malaysia’s political scene 7:37 PAS as an alternative for Barisan National and Umno and its more moderated image 10:47 Possible leadership change in the coming PAS congress and ambitions of federal power 14:17 What’s next for PAS and its standing in Perikatan Nasional (PN)? 18:55 The coming Sabah elections and the state of play 27:16 Why the death of 13-year-old Sabah student Zara Qairina has become part of the political discussion 29:39 The rise of state nationalism in Sabah 35:52 News nugget: Malaysians generally feel optimistic about ageing Read more: The state of play in Sabah as elections loom - https://str.sg/oKkNK 6 in 10 Malaysians upbeat about ageing - https://str.sg/DhRU Read Tan Tam Mei’s articles: https://str.sg/iJxJ Read Shannon Teoh's articles: https://str.sg/wzyK Register for Asian Insider newsletter: https://str.sg/stnewsletters Hosts: Tan Tam Mei (tammei@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani Executive producer: Ernest Luis Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here: Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7 Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8 Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX 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 --- #STAsianInsiderSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The coming months will see several changes in the political landscape as parties make moves on various fronts. Synopsis: Every fourth Friday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the hottest political and trending talking points, alternating between its Malaysia and China bureaus. In this episode, ST’s Malaysia bureau chief Shannon Teoh and host Tan Tam Mei are joined by Ibrahim Suffian, also known as Ben, the co-founder and programs director of Merdeka Center for Opinion Research. With Malaysia’s opposition Parti Islam SeMalaysia (PAS) holding its annual conference in September, and the 17th Sabah election that is likely happening by year-end, what is on the horizon for Malaysia’s political scene? Highlights (click/tap above): 3:32 PAS no longer just a supporting actor in Malaysia’s political scene 7:37 PAS as an alternative for Barisan National and Umno and its more moderated image 10:47 Possible leadership change in the coming PAS congress and ambitions of federal power 14:17 What’s next for PAS and its standing in Perikatan Nasional (PN)? 18:55 The coming Sabah elections and the state of play 27:16 Why the death of 13-year-old Sabah student Zara Qairina has become part of the political discussion 29:39 The rise of state nationalism in Sabah 35:52 News nugget: Malaysians generally feel optimistic about ageing Read more: The state of play in Sabah as elections loom - https://str.sg/oKkNK 6 in 10 Malaysians upbeat about ageing - https://str.sg/DhRU Read Tan Tam Mei’s articles: https://str.sg/iJxJ Read Shannon Teoh's articles: https://str.sg/wzyK Register for Asian Insider newsletter: https://str.sg/stnewsletters Hosts: Tan Tam Mei (tammei@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani Executive producer: Ernest Luis Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here: Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7 Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8 Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX 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 --- #STAsianInsiderSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How Singapore can truly be a ‘we first’ society. Synopsis: Join Natasha Ann Zachariah at The Usual Place every Thursday as she unpacks the latest current affairs with guests. “It’s not ‘I’ or ‘me’. It’s ‘we’. To keep Singapore going, we must be a ‘we first’ society.” This was Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s rallying call to strengthen the Singaporean Spirit – to put the welfare of the community ahead of individual interest. It came towards the end of his National Day Rally address on Aug 17, perhaps as a reminder that the way forward is not only paved by policies meant to fix problems. PM Wong’s first NDR speech after the 2025 General Election emphasised that “when the whole is strong, each of us becomes stronger too”. This message built on what was put forth during the Forward Singapore exercise – launched by the country’s fourth-generation team of political leaders – to refresh Singapore’s social compact and build a shared future. But how does this rallying call resonate with Singaporeans? In this episode of The Usual Place, Natasha hosts Dr Rebecca Grace Tan, a political science lecturer at the National University of Singapore, and Mr Jeremy Tan, who ran as an independent candidate for Mountbatten SMC at GE2025. They chat about PM Wong’s style of governance, and why he emphasised that Singapore needs to be a “we first” society to keep going. Highlights (click/tap above): 4:34 Why Jeremy wanted PM Wong to give Singaporeans the “bitter medicine” 7:45 Were the expectations of big announcements warranted? 9:18 “The disconnect is something that needs to be addressed”: Jeremy 16:15 Does PM Wong’s style of delegating announcements to his colleagues work? 21:00 PM Wong’s rally call dichotomy: Empowering Singaporeans, yet slightly paternalistic? 28:06 The big question about PM Wong’s We First message: What can be the new approach? Host: Natasha Ann Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg) Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN Filmed by: Studio+65 Edited by: Teo Tong Kai & Eden Soh Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong, Danson Cheong & Elizabeth Khor Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday:Channel: https://str.sg/5nfmApple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijXSpotify: https://str.sg/cd2PYouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcastFeedback 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 --- #tup #tuptrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the mercury rises, so does the need for awareness about the growing risks from Singapore’s steamy temperatures. 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. As the mercury rises, so does the need for awareness about the growing risks from Singapore’s steamy temperatures. Even if you’re not aware, we’re all affected by rising temperatures, especially when combined with Singapore’s high humidity. Heat is changing our behaviour and many of us actively avoid being exposed to it by limiting our time outdoors. But that can reduce our true potential by curbing exercise and access to fresh air and by spending more time in front phones and televisions, harming our vision – and even reducing vitamin D intake. But for those who work outside, they have fewer choices. And those without regular access to air-conditioning are also at increasing risk. Fortunately, much is being done to help people and educate them on the growing threat from rising temperatures caused by climate change and hotter urban environments. And for this special episode of the Green Pulse podcast, co-hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty speak with a dynamic duo who have helped shape Singapore’s response to heat. They are Associate Professor Jason Lee, director of the Heat Resilience and Performance Centre at National University of Singapore and Ms Jaime Lim, a director at the Occupational Safety and Health Division at the Ministry of Manpower. This episode was recorded and filmed on Aug 12 at The Fashion Pulpit in Jalan Besar, in front of an intimate live audience of about 95 people. It was the fourth ST Podcast Live! session celebrating 180 years of The Straits Times in 2025, with two more events planned for the rest of the year. Highlights of conversation (click/tap above): 1:30 Despite the sharp spike in temperatures, do people think high heat is still not a concern? 8:35 The Ministry of Manpower has an acclimatisation programme for newly arrived outdoor workers. How does this programme work? 12:05 How the government and scientists work together to create heat policies. 17:50 What have been the reactions from businesses to MOM’s heat protection advisories and policies? 25:25 Much has been done but what other aspects of heat risk need more attention? More on NUS' Heat Resilience & Performance Centre (HRPC): https://str.sg/Byiw MOM's heat stress measures for outdoor work: https://str.sg/5j9K Resources for workplaces and workers: https://str.sg/Hup2 Heat stress levels: https://str.sg/5WrT 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.

As the mercury rises, so does the need for awareness about the growing risks from Singapore’s steamy temperatures. 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. As the mercury rises, so does the need for awareness about the growing risks from Singapore’s steamy temperatures. Even if you’re not aware, we’re all affected by rising temperatures, especially when combined with Singapore’s high humidity. Heat is changing our behaviour and many of us actively avoid being exposed to it by limiting our time outdoors. But that can reduce our true potential by curbing exercise and access to fresh air and by spending more time in front phones and televisions, harming our vision – and even reducing vitamin D intake. But for those who work outside, they have fewer choices. And those without regular access to air-conditioning are also at increasing risk. Fortunately, much is being done to help people and educate them on the growing threat from rising temperatures caused by climate change and hotter urban environments. And for this special episode of the Green Pulse podcast, co-hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty speak with a dynamic duo who have helped shape Singapore’s response to heat. They are Associate Professor Jason Lee, director of the Heat Resilience and Performance Centre at National University of Singapore and Ms Jaime Lim, a director at the Occupational Safety and Health Division at the Ministry of Manpower. This episode was recorded and filmed on Aug 12 at The Fashion Pulpit in Jalan Besar, in front of an intimate live audience of about 95 people. It was the fourth ST Podcast Live! session celebrating 180 years of The Straits Times in 2025, with two more events planned for the rest of the year. Highlights of conversation (click/tap above): 1:30 Despite the sharp spike in temperatures, do people think high heat is still not a concern? 8:35 The Ministry of Manpower has an acclimatisation programme for newly arrived outdoor workers. How does this programme work? 12:05 How the government and scientists work together to create heat policies. 17:50 What have been the reactions from businesses to MOM’s heat protection advisories and policies? 25:25 Much has been done but what other aspects of heat risk need more attention? More on NUS' Heat Resilience & Performance Centre (HRPC): https://str.sg/Byiw MOM's heat stress measures for outdoor work: https://str.sg/5j9K Resources for workplaces and workers: https://str.sg/Hup2 Heat stress levels: https://str.sg/5WrT 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 this sector also has back-of-house roles that call for talents from all walks of life. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. Find out why job seekers should not just think of front-facing guest roles in this sector, as host and ST correspondent Tay Hong Yi chats with Ms Adeline Phua, managing lyf partner and vice-president for business development at Ascott, the lodging business of CapitaLand Investment. You may have come across lyf (pronounced life) properties, that are creatively designed. It is known for its appeal to young travellers and inventive activities for guests. Ms Phua argues why hospitality is something Singaporeans should look deeper into, beyond just traditional or stereotypical job roles associated with the sector. Do you have to be an extrovert to work in hospitality? No. Not everyone has to be interacting with guests on the frontline, with a surfeit of meaningful roles behind the scenes in areas including facilities management, designing and sustainability. Highlights (click/tap above): 3:23 Kombucha-brewing classes, world record attempts and other memorable guest activities 6:10 Hospitality roles in SG: Is there room to improvise? 13:23 The range of roles and skills needed at a company like lyf 16:54 Wanted: Ex-kindergarten teachers, ex-zoo professionals, illustrators, content creators? 20:49 How’s the sector holding up in this current economy? 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 & Natasha Liew 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 --- #headstartSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why does President Donald Trump seem so intent on winning the Nobel Peace Prize? Synopsis: Every third Friday of the month, The Straits Times gets its US bureau chief to analyse the hottest political and trending talking points. In this episode, President Donald Trump’s ambition to win the Nobel Peace Prize is the topic of discussion for ST's assistant foreign editor Clement Tan who hosts colleague and US bureau chief Bhagyashree Garekar. They discuss the motivations behind his desire for the award and the international political implications of his nomination at a time when a number of wars are raging and the ensuing loss of innumerable lives frame his presidency. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:23 Trump's obsession with the Nobel Peace Prize 3:07 Trump vs. Obama: A rivalry 4:07 Global reactions and nominations 7:05 Trump's diplomatic efforts 9:59 Current major conflicts and Trump's role 13:43 Nobel Peace Prize nomination process Read Bhagyashree Garekar’s articles: https://str.sg/whNo Read Clement Tan's articles: https://str.sg/Ep62 Follow Clement Tan on X: https://str.sg/uErS Register for Asian Insider newsletter: https://str.sg/stnewsletters Host: Clement Tan (clemtan@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani Executive producer: Ernest Luis Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here: Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7 Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8 Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX 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 --- #STAsianInsiderSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why does President Donald Trump seem so intent on winning the Nobel Peace Prize? Synopsis: Every third Friday of the month, The Straits Times gets its US bureau chief to analyse the hottest political and trending talking points. In this episode, President Donald Trump’s ambition to win the Nobel Peace Prize is the topic of discussion for ST's assistant foreign editor Clement Tan who hosts colleague and US bureau chief Bhagyashree Garekar. They discuss the motivations behind his desire for the award and the international political implications of his nomination at a time when a number of wars are raging and the ensuing loss of innumerable lives frame his presidency. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:23 Trump's obsession with the Nobel Peace Prize 3:07 Trump vs. Obama: A rivalry 4:07 Global reactions and nominations 7:05 Trump's diplomatic efforts 9:59 Current major conflicts and Trump's role 13:43 Nobel Peace Prize nomination process Read Bhagyashree Garekar’s articles: https://str.sg/whNo Read Clement Tan's articles: https://str.sg/Ep62 Follow Clement Tan on X: https://str.sg/uErS Register for Asian Insider newsletter: https://str.sg/stnewsletters Host: Clement Tan (clemtan@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani Executive producer: Ernest Luis Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here: Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7 Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8 Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX 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 --- #STAsianInsiderSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The clock is ticking on the leases for older Housing Board flats, and an answer on what the Government plans to do about lease decay dropped earlier this week. Synopsis: Join Natasha Ann Zachariah at The Usual Place as she unpacks the latest current affairs with guests. National Development Minister Chee Hong Tat updated on the Voluntary Early Redevelopment Scheme (Vers) in an interview that was published on Aug 10, outlining in broad strokes the plans for flats nearing the end of their 99-year leases. The gist: Vers will let home owners of selected precincts that are aged about 70 and up choose if they want their homes to be acquired by the Government for redevelopment before their leases run out. The scheme will start in the 2030s, and will likely begin “with a few selected sites”, said Mr Chee. For many homeowners living in old flats, this announcement provides them with some direction on what happens should they choose Vers – or not. In this episode of The Usual Place, ST land use reporter Ng Keng Gene and Ms Christine Sun, chief researcher and strategist at Realion Group, join me to discuss how this announcement will affect housing prices and considerations for buying an old flat. Highlights (click/tap above): 3:12 How Vers differs from Sers, and why isn’t Vers compulsory 16:02 The update on Vers might spur more transactions of older flats based on previous trends, said Christine 18:10 How will the prices of resale flats be affected, and will newer flats be more attractive? 24:51 Location and amenities might be a key factor that affects votes 33:27 Should home owners worry about not being able to pay for a new Vers flat replacement? Read ST’s article on courses in yapping: https://str.sg/d82q Host: Natasha Ann Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg) Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN Filmed by: Studio+65 Edited by: Teo Tong Kai & Eden Soh Executive producers: Ernest Luis, Lynda Hong, Danson Cheong & Elizabeth Khor Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday:Channel: https://str.sg/5nfmApple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijXSpotify: https://str.sg/cd2PYouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcastFeedback 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 --- #tup #tuptrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We even invite ChatGPT to be a 'guest' in this episode with our host and two human guests. Synopsis: Every second Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times takes a hard look at Singapore's social issues of the day with guests. Preliminary findings from a recent MIT study in June in the US, concluded that people using just generative AI (Gen AI) tools such as ChatGPT, became lazier with each subsequent essay they wrote. The study, conducted in Boston, categorised three groups of test subjects aged 18 to 39 according to the tools that they used: ChatGPT, Google or no tools. The brain activity of these writers were scanned across 32 regions of their brain. The result found that ChatGPT users had the lowest brain activity, and “consistently underperformed at neural, linguistic, and behavioural levels,” according to the study. But the way ChatGPT is used was critical, as the study found that test subjects who used ChatGPT only after writing the essays on their own, had significant increases in brain connectivity. Just how can ChatGPT be used to enhance productivity without making us lazy? In this episode, ST assistant podcast editor Lynda Hong unpacks the issues and looks at how her human guests maintain the balance between optimising the use of ChatGPT and becoming over-reliant on it. Her guests are Shahrman Nayan, creative director of OneDash22, a local video production company and an avid user of Gen AI for his work; and Cheryl Chia, founder of BrainFit, an education centre for children and young adults, building their cognitive, thinking, and study skills through programmes grounded in scientific approaches. We also invite ChatGPT to be a 'guest' in this podcast discussion. Highlights (click/tap above): 6:00 How can youths use ChatGPT without becoming lazy 13:14 "I can make people lazier if they use me to avoid thinking critically": ChatGPT 15:21 Cognitive functions like memory and concentration have been going down: Cheryl 29:04 How young people can use Gen AI to improve critical thinking 37:03 How Shahrman uses Gen AI like ChatGPT to get his colleagues to produce creative work Host: Lynda Hong (lyndahong@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim, Rebekah Chia and Natasha Liew 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.

Declaring war “against everybody” including China and hoping for the right result is very worrying. Synopsis: Every second Friday of the month, The Straits Times’ senior columnist Ravi Velloor distils 40 years of experience covering the Asian continent, with expert guests. In this episode, Ravi speaks with Ambassador John Bolton, the American foreign policy hawk and former National Security Adviser to President Donald Trump, on US policy toward Asia. Mr Bolton speaks on the chaos and confusion in the Trump White House, the lack of a coherent policy toward Asia including senseless tariffs slapped on key security partners, and Mr Trump’s proclivity to personalise foreign policy. Highlights (click/tap above): 3:00 A tone-deaf presidency 4:45 Asia in Trump 2.0 6:30 Singapore’s shock over tariffs 10:20 Is Trump more than an aberration? 11:30 Trump’s China fascination 13:40 Desperation for a Nobel; Trump in Asian conflicts 16:40 Are Quad and Aukus dead in the water? 19:00 Taiwan has reason to be worried Host: Ravi Velloor (velloor@sph.com.sg) Read Ravi's columns: https://str.sg/3xRP Follow Ravi on X: https://twitter.com/RaviVelloor Register for Asian Insider newsletter: https://str.sg/stnewsletters Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani & Natasha Liew Executive producer: Ernest Luis Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here: Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7 Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8 Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX 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 --- #STAsianInsiderSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If the first part of the headline has you nodding, then this episode of The Usual Place podcast is for you. Synopsis: Join Natasha Ann Zachariah at The Usual Place as she unpacks the latest current affairs with guests. Some young adults are struggling with everyday conversations and other basic forms of social interaction.Whether it’s making small talk with strangers, holding eye contact, or just answering a phone call (just text me please!), Gen Zs and millennials are declaring that dealing with other people isn’t always their vibe. They need help to fix their awkwardness. That’s where the School of Yapping by social impact organisation Friendzone comes in, reported The Straits Times in July. Over four workshops, participants aged 20 to 35 practise how to be “confident, connected, and comfortable” talking to others. In this episode of The Usual Place, I will chat with Tham Jun Han, the 32-year-old co-founder of Friendzone; Nur Haziqah Mohd Yazib, a 25-year-old case worker who took part in the workshop recently; and Savanna Tai, a 22-year-old university student who has had to change the way she communicates as she wants to become a journalist. We discuss why social interactions are harder now for young adults than ever before, whether the Covid-19 pandemic made things worse, and what we stand to lose if we don’t find a way to connect again. Highlights (click/tap above): 4:46 Understanding group dynamics and how to start conversations 15:02 Haziqah and Savanna on their experiences in changing their skill sets and approaches so far 19:41 On personality tests 24:10 Could the Covid-19 pandemic have affected the way a generation communicates? 27:09 What will young people lose if they don’t know how to communicate well or are not socially confident? Read ST’s article on courses in yapping: https://str.sg/d82q Host: Natasha Ann Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg) Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN Filmed by: Studio+65 Edited by: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh & Natasha Liew Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday:Channel: https://str.sg/5nfmApple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijXSpotify: https://str.sg/cd2PYouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcastFeedback 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 --- #tup #tuptrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Declaring war “against everybody” including China and hoping for the right result is very worrying. Synopsis: Every second Friday of the month, The Straits Times’ senior columnist Ravi Velloor distils 40 years of experience covering the Asian continent, with expert guests. In this episode, Ravi speaks with Ambassador John Bolton, the American foreign policy hawk and former National Security Adviser to President Donald Trump, on US policy toward Asia. Mr Bolton speaks on the chaos and confusion in the Trump White House, the lack of a coherent policy toward Asia including senseless tariffs slapped on key security partners, and Mr Trump’s proclivity to personalise foreign policy. Highlights (click/tap above): 3:00 A tone-deaf presidency 4:45 Asia in Trump 2.0 6:30 Singapore’s shock over tariffs 10:20 Is Trump more than an aberration? 11:30 Trump’s China fascination 13:40 Desperation for a Nobel; Trump in Asian conflicts 16:40 Are Quad and Aukus dead in the water? 19:00 Taiwan has reason to be worried Host: Ravi Velloor (velloor@sph.com.sg) Read Ravi's columns: https://str.sg/3xRP Follow Ravi on X: https://twitter.com/RaviVelloor Register for Asian Insider newsletter: https://str.sg/stnewsletters Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani Executive producer: Ernest Luis Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here: Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7 Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8 Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX 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 --- #STAsianInsiderSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Learn how to manage bothersome symptoms that typically emerge in the four to five years before a woman's final menstruation. Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you. Perimenopause is the stage before menopause that many women here do not talk about, largely due to stigma or a lack of awareness. The transition phase in perimenopause ends in menopause, which marks the end of a woman's natural fertility. This affects not just her reproductive organs but her entire body, adding to the confusion in distinguishing between ageing or illness. In this episode, senior health correspondent Joyce Teo speaks to Associate Professor Rukshini Puvanendran, the co-director of the KK Menopause Centre, to counter the misinformation out there. Prof Ruskhini is also the head and a senior consultant at the Family Medicine Service at KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH). Highlights (click/tap above): 2.28 Symptoms of perimenopause 7.23 Older women can still have hot flushes 11.03 Some women develop an awareness of their heartbeat 18:39 What can women do about their symptoms? 30:08 The four symptoms of menopause that doctors won't argue about 31:59 Oestrogen cream to treat vaginal dryness and urinary incontinence 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.

Learn how to manage bothersome symptoms that typically emerge in the four to five years before a woman's final menstruation. Synopsis: Every first Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times helps you make sense of health matters that affect you. Perimenopause is the stage before menopause that many women here do not talk about, largely due to stigma or a lack of awareness. The transition phase in perimenopause ends in menopause, which marks the end of a woman's natural fertility. This affects not just her reproductive organs but her entire body, adding to the confusion in distinguishing between ageing or illness. In this episode, senior health correspondent Joyce Teo speaks to Associate Professor Rukshini Puvanendran, the co-director of the KK Menopause Centre, to counter the misinformation out there. Prof Ruskhini is also the head and a senior consultant at the Family Medicine Service at KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH). Highlights (click/tap above): 2.28 Symptoms of perimenopause 7.23 Older women can still have hot flushes 11.03 Some women develop an awareness of their heartbeat 18:39 What can women do about their symptoms? 30:08 The four symptoms of menopause that doctors won't argue about 31:59 Oestrogen cream to treat vaginal dryness and urinary incontinence 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.

When discussing climate change, mother doesn’t always know best. 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 many people, climate change is scary and the science behind its causes and impacts is bewildering. And with all the other bad news these days, sometimes the easiest thing is just to hope climate change will fade away. Add in a noisy minority who vehemently deny climate change is real, or even believe it’s all a conspiracy, and it can be hard for people to know how best to respond or what’s even real. In our latest Green Pulse episode, co-hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty speak with Adam Switzer, a Professor of Coastal Science at the Asian School of the Environment at the Nanyang Technological University in Singapore. He gives us some tips and tricks on how to speak to people about climate change, including amplifying the stories of hope, a focus on solutions as well as educating people about the clear trends that show climate change is real, such as data showing rising temperatures, sea levels and carbon emissions. But what happens when your own mother is a hardened denialist? Have a listen, and let us know what you think! Highlights of conversation (click/tap above): 2:45 What does climate denialism mean to you? 5:55 How to help people who don’t understand climate science and feel unable to respond? 10: 44 ‘We need to focus on solutions’. 12:10 What are top tips to help people sort out real science from cherry-picked, greenwashed science? 16:44 How to balance the bad news of climate change with the need for urgency? 23:17 Talk to people. It’s not hard to find common ground on climate change, such as health and money. 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.

When discussing climate change, mother doesn’t always know best. 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 many people, climate change is scary and the science behind its causes and impacts is bewildering. And with all the other bad news these days, sometimes the easiest thing is just to hope climate change will fade away. Add in a noisy minority who vehemently deny climate change is real, or even believe it’s all a conspiracy, and it can be hard for people to know how best to respond or what’s even real. In our latest Green Pulse episode, co-hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty speak with Adam Switzer, a Professor of Coastal Science at the Asian School of the Environment at the Nanyang Technological University in Singapore. He gives us some tips and tricks on how to speak to people about climate change, including amplifying the stories of hope, a focus on solutions as well as educating people about the clear trends that show climate change is real, such as data showing rising temperatures, sea levels and carbon emissions. But what happens when your own mother is a hardened denialist? Have a listen, and let us know what you think! Highlights of conversation (click/tap above): 2:45 What does climate denialism mean to you? 5:55 How to help people who don’t understand climate science and feel unable to respond? 10: 44 ‘We need to focus on solutions’. 12:10 What are top tips to help people sort out real science from cherry-picked, greenwashed science? 16:44 How to balance the bad news of climate change with the need for urgency? 23:17 Talk to people. It’s not hard to find common ground on climate change, such as health and money. 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.

Working a full-time job but having a side-hustle is gaining traction, but here are things to look out for before taking the plunge. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. Side hustles are becoming more common, with people opening weekend cafes, selling coffee or doing other jobs besides their full-time work. But are side hustles for everyone? Will it become necessary as people try to get extra income and find fulfilment outside their day jobs? And what do you need to look out for before starting a side hustle? In this episode, ST business correspondent Sue-Ann Tan looks at the art of the side hustle and how to start one. Her guests are Tris Su, owner of weekend matcha business Tofu Tofu, and Juliet Tan, founder of human resources consultancy firm Emplifi. Highlights (click/tap above): 3:14: How does a home-based matcha maker run her side hustle? 4:17 What counts as a side hustle? 5:55 Juggling the side hustle with her full-time job 7:53 What to do before starting a side hustle 14:15 The trend of side hustling and why start one? 24:00 Can I start a side hustle now? 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 --- #headstartSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Social isolation is especially acute in the capital city of Seoul—and it’s not just among the elderly. Synopsis: Every first Friday of the month, The Straits Times catches up with its foreign correspondents about life and trends in the countries they're based in. South Korea correspondent Wendy Teo, who has lived in South Korea for six years, describes what life in Seoul can be like, and explains why loneliness is a looming epidemic not just for the aged but for young people there as well. Steps are being taken to address the challenge, with local authorities rolling out measures ranging from cafes where anyone can drop by for a steaming hot bowl of ramyeon to 24-hour call centres. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:12 All alone in Seoul 4:59 Intense competition in exams and for jobs 6:41 A district in southern Seoul City 11:47 Tackling the problem before depression sets in 15:04 Are mindsets shifting? Read Wendy Teo’s article here: https://str.sg/f4bN Read Li Xueying’s articles: https://str.sg/iqmR Follow Li Xueying on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ip4x Register for Asian Insider newsletter: https://str.sg/stnewsletters Host: Li Xueying (xueying@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani Executive producer: Ernest Luis Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here: Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7 Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8 Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX 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 --- #STAsianInsiderSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Social isolation is especially acute in the capital city of Seoul—and it’s not just among the elderly. Synopsis: Every first Friday of the month, The Straits Times catches up with its foreign correspondents about life and trends in the countries they're based in. South Korea correspondent Wendy Teo, who has lived in South Korea for six years, describes what life in Seoul can be like, and explains why loneliness is a looming epidemic not just for the aged but for young people there as well. Steps are being taken to address the challenge, with local authorities rolling out measures ranging from cafes where anyone can drop by for a steaming hot bowl of ramyeon to 24-hour call centres. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:12 All alone in Seoul 4:59 Intense competition in exams and for jobs 6:41 A district in southern Seoul City 11:47 Tackling the problem before depression sets in 15:04 Are mindsets shifting? Read Wendy Teo’s article here: https://str.sg/f4bN Read Li Xueying’s articles: https://str.sg/iqmR Follow Li Xueying on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ip4x Register for Asian Insider newsletter: https://str.sg/stnewsletters Host: Li Xueying (xueying@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani Executive producer: Ernest Luis Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here: Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7 Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8 Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX 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 --- #STAsianInsiderSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wegovy, the blockbuster weight-loss drug, is now available in Singapore more than two years after it was approved by the Health Sciences Authority.Synopsis: Join Natasha Ann Zachariah at The Usual Place as she unpacks the latest current affairs with guests. Wegovy's arrival here sparks a deeper conversation about who should take it, how it makes us rethink obesity and weight loss, and whether weight-loss drugs are a magic bullet. Earlier in July, pharmaceutical firm Novo Nordisk, which makes Wegovy, announced in a statement that the injectable drug is now available with prescription from any licensed physician at hospitals and clinics across Singapore. The global hype around Wegovy, which is made for weight loss, stemmed from Ozempic, which was created as an anti-diabetic drug. The latter garnered a lot of attention on social media a few years ago after its users, who weren’t all diabetics, showed off their considerable weight loss. What connects Wegovy and Ozempic – besides both being made by Novo Nordisk – is that they contain the active ingredient semaglutide. Mimicking the natural hormone glucagon-like peptide-1, semaglutide regulates blood sugar levels, curbs the appetite and induces the sensation of fullness. One of the differences? Wegovy has a maximum dosage of 2.4mg, while Ozempic has a maximum dosage of either 1mg or 2mg depending on the country. In Singapore, Ozempic's maximum dosage is capped at 1mg based on HSA's approved label. While the benefits have been laid out, what should those considering Wegovy look out for? To answer these questions on this episode of The Usual Place, I have: Senior consultant endocrinologist Dr Sue-Anne Toh from Novi Health, a specialist medical clinic and health-tech company. She has more than 20 years of experience in internal medicine, diabetes, and metabolic health. Her patient Farhan Hanis, a 26-year-old university student and a former plus-sized model. He started on Wegovy about two months ago. General practitioner Dr Bosty Chan, who co-founded health telemedicine providers Sire and Dame, which offers weight management as part of a suite of services. Highlights (click/tap above):4:13 Gamechanger to the weight loss market in Singapore? How do these options compare with surgically invasive options? 16:15 Dr Toh on why some cannot lose weight easily; how GLP-1 hormones work39:50 Managing costs of such GLP-1 medication45:00 Dr Chan on whether weight-loss drugs are supposed to be for the long term1:00:17 Should Singapore redefine obesity markers for the population? Host: Natasha Ann Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg) Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN Filmed by: Studio+65 Edited by: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh & Natasha Liew Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday:Channel: https://str.sg/5nfmApple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijXSpotify: https://str.sg/cd2PYouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcastFeedback 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 --- #tup #tuptrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ultimately, the outcome might depend on both sides’ threshold for pain. Synopsis: Every fourth Friday of the month, The Straits Times will now analyse the hottest political and trending talking points, alternating between its Malaysia and China bureaus. For July, host and deputy foreign editor Albert Wai connects with senior China correspondent Yew Lun Tian. They take stock of the twists and turns in the tariff negotiations between Washington and Beijing. Both sides have weaponised access to rare earths and advanced chips as well as the potential sale of short video app TikTok, among other issues, in a bid to gain leverage. Ultimately, how the negotiations pan out may depend on how much pain both sides are prepared to endure. On the horizon is talk about a possible visit by President Donald Trump to China and how this might play a decisive role for some sort of deal. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:28 The twists and turns of US-China tariff negotiations 3:24 How Beijing has weaponised the access to rare earths 5:40 China can now buy Nvidia H20 AI chips again. What are the implications? 7:49 Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang makes waves in China 9:54 Can Americans be happy without Chinese goods? 12:41 How the sale of TikTok might be a bargaining chip 13:56 Transhipment taxes add a layer of uncertainty 17:59 What a grand bargain might look like 19:37 Who will win the trade war? Read more: https://str.sg/eGoi Register for Asian Insider newsletter: https://str.sg/stnewsletters Host: Albert Wai (albertw@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani Executive producer: Ernest Luis Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here: Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7 Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8 Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 ST Podcasts website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts ST Podcasts 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 --- #STAsianInsiderSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ultimately, the outcome might depend on both sides’ threshold for pain. Synopsis: Every fourth Friday of the month, The Straits Times will now analyse the hottest political and trending talking points, alternating between its Malaysia and China bureaus. For July, host and deputy foreign editor Albert Wai connects with senior China correspondent Yew Lun Tian. They take stock of the twists and turns in the tariff negotiations between Washington and Beijing. Both sides have weaponised access to rare earths and advanced chips as well as the potential sale of short video app TikTok, among other issues, in a bid to gain leverage. Ultimately, how the negotiations pan out may depend on how much pain both sides are prepared to endure. On the horizon is talk about a possible visit by President Donald Trump to China and how this might play a decisive role for some sort of deal. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:28 The twists and turns of US-China tariff negotiations 3:24 How Beijing has weaponised the access to rare earths 5:40 China can now buy Nvidia H20 AI chips again. What are the implications? 7:49 Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang makes waves in China 9:54 Can Americans be happy without Chinese goods? 12:41 How the sale of TikTok might be a bargaining chip 13:56 Transhipment taxes add a layer of uncertainty 17:59 What a grand bargain might look like 19:37 Who will win the trade war? Read more: https://str.sg/eGoi Register for Asian Insider newsletter: https://str.sg/stnewsletters Host: Albert Wai (albertw@sph.com.sg) Produced and edited by: Fa’izah Sani Executive producer: Ernest Luis Follow Asian Insider Podcast on Fridays here: Channel: https://str.sg/JWa7 Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWa8 Spotify: https://str.sg/JWaX Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg --- Follow more ST podcast channels: All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7 ST Podcasts website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts ST Podcasts 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 --- #STAsianInsiderSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If combining the words “kiss cam”, “Coldplay”, “Astronomer” and “affair” means nothing to you, you have managed to be blissfully unaware of the internet’s weekend meltdown over a very public spectacle. Synopsis: Join Natasha Ann Zachariah at The Usual Place as she unpacks the latest current affairs with guests. Here’s the TL;DR recap: A couple, who were in a tight embrace, created a buzz among concertgoers – and later, the world – when they pulled a duck/hide move after they were featured on the kiss cam at a Coldplay concert in Boston. Their reaction was so suspicious that the band’s frontman Chris Martin quipped: “Either they are having an affair or they’re just very shy.” It turned out that Martin was right, and the cheating pair were colleagues at US tech firm Astronomer.Internet sleuths uncovered their names and job titles – he’s Andy Byron the now-former chief executive at the company; she’s Kristin Cabot, Astronomer’s chief people officer – as well as information about their other relationships.People also found out who Mr Byron’s wife was, with some even sending her messages about what they thought of her husband. Beyond the illicit affair being publicly exposed, the incident led to much introspection about what happens when private moments become public, and leadership credibility.Also, what is our obsession with public shaming? To answer those questions on this episode of The Usual Place podcast, I spoke with: Stephanie Phua, founder of marketing and branding collective Duo Studio and co-founder of The Trampoline Club, a platform which pushes for compassion, understanding and mutual respect in conversations; Pan Huiyan, a millennial leadership coach; and Dr Sunny Johar, managing director for South-east Asia at digital experience agency KRDS. Highlights (click/tap above): 1:48 Initial thoughts about Coldplay-gate - would the moment have gone viral if the couple did not overreact? 13:07 What this incident tells us about filming and sharing content about strangers 19:41 Would anyone have cared if it weren’t the CEO and the head of HR? 22:46 Will a private mistake affect a person’s work ethics? 33:14 Post-viral moment, can the couple recover professionally? Host: Natasha Ann Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg) Read Natasha’s articles: https://str.sg/iSXm Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://www.instagram.com/theusualplacepodcast Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN Filmed by: Studio+65 Edited by: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh & Natasha Liew Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong Follow The Usual Place Podcast and get notified for new episode drops every Thursday:Channel: https://str.sg/5nfmApple Podcasts: https://str.sg/9ijXSpotify: https://str.sg/cd2PYouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcastFeedback 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 --- #tup #tuptrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We put off work because work, for some reason, puts us off. Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, get a headstart in your personal finance and career with The Straits Times. Procrastination: The frustratingly human tendency to postpone work we can and should get started on earlier. It may seem tempting to berate ourselves for being lazy, unmotivated or disorganised. Instead, procrastination is actually our brains trying to shield us from uncomfortable feelings, putting a hidden toll on ourselves. In this episode, host and ST correspondent Tay Hong Yi hosts an expert on the psychology of people who work together in groups. She shares with us what research tells us about procrastination and other quirks of our mind that permeate our work and daily life. She also goes into the “dark things” she relishes researching, such as why people are cynical at work, and the fallout from narcissist leaders. The guest is: Dr Ruchi Sinha, organisational psychologist and associate professor (practice) at Nanyang Business School, Nanyang Technological University Highlights (click/tap above): 2:00 What is procrastination and what type of procrastinator are you? 11:06 What are some strategies to help you manage procrastination? 14:07 Procrastination is about misplaced priorities too 16:22 Is it any easier for Dr Sinha to beat procrastination, as an expert? 17:05 The “pretty dark stuff” Dr Sinha studies, such as narcissism at workplaces 23:04 How does Dr Sinha translate research in her field to real life? Read more about procrastination here: https://str.sg/C9QS 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 SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg Get business/career tips in ST's Headstart newsletter: https://str.sg/headstart-nl --- 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 --- #headstartSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.