Crucial Conversations

Have you ever witnessed the transformation of a 'bulldozer' leader into a beacon of empathy and understanding? Join us as we journey through the layers of impactful leadership with our guest, Grant 'Upbeat' Bosnick, sharing personal stories from the trenches of team management to the heights of conscious leadership. We'll unpack the balance between driving results and nurturing the human element, highlighting how self-awareness can not only change the way we lead but also the way we live. Embark on an odyssey where authenticity meets high performance, and drumming meets leadership strategy. We trace the rhythm of Grant's evolution from a professional drummer to a leadership coach, discussing the Upbeat method that marries neuroscience and rhythm to prime leaders for innovation. We also tackle the challenge of sharing sensitive information as 'soft bulldozers,' navigating the fine line between truth-telling and empathy in an era where authenticity and sensitivity often collide. Creating safe, inclusive workplace cultures, championing belonging over fitting in, and aligning with those who share our vision is at the heart of our discourse. We explore how understanding organizational culture is key to fostering innovation, particularly during times of change. By the end of our talk, you'll be inspired to intentionally craft your leadership narrative and make a positive impact on your world.

Embark on a captivating journey with finance expert Kenneth Bok, tracing his transition from Goldman Sachs to fervent Bitcoin advocate. Dive into the intricacies of algorithmic trading, ethics in finance, and the allure of Bitcoin amid DeFi's volatility. Explore Ethereum's proof systems, the debate between proof of stake and proof of work, and Bitcoin's potential to reshape governance and finance. Delve into the transformative power of Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies, offering financial inclusion where traditional banking falters. Critically examine the rise of CBDCs and their impact on privacy, international trade, and the future of finance. Whether a seasoned trader or new to crypto, this discussion challenges conventional finance and unveils the possibilities of blockchain and AI convergence.

Have you ever witnessed an artist wield the tenacity of a CEO while orchestrating their creative vision? Our insightful guest, Churen, invites us into a world where brushes meet business acumen, unraveling the complex tapestry of being an entrepreneur in the realm of art. As we navigate the hurdles and triumphs of personal branding and the multifaceted roles artists embrace, we uncover the delicate art of distancing oneself from one's creation to foster a sustainable practice. Churen's journey of self-discovery and dedication echoes across disciplines, revealing the paradoxical dance of immersion and objectivity in mastery. The symphony of life is composed of myriad notes, each resonating with the timbre of our experiences, and this episode resonates with that very melody. Churen's narrative crescendos from the disciplined pursuit of piano to the existential reflections on identity accompanying artistic expression. Like a maestro conducting the orchestra of self, we traverse the transformative power of performance and the intricate process of shaping an artist's legacy. It's not just about the notes played; it's about the life lived between each measure. Envision a classical concert infused with the spectral wonders of augmented reality, where the timeless beauty of tradition waltzes with the pulsing innovation of tech. Churen gives us a glimpse into the alchemy of blending classical music with AR to craft immersive experiences that defy convention. We venture through the mind of a composer balancing the dual act of performance and creation, touching on gender dynamics and societal norms through the universal language of music. Prepare to be enthralled by a dialogue that promises to etch a new lineage in the annals of classical music — where past, present, and future converge in harmony.

Meet Tony, a tech solutions consultant based in SEA with three decades of experience. Discover how he safeguards his colonies and ensures product purity using cutting-edge technologies. Tony inspires teenagers through his 'Teenagers In Free Enterprise' initiative, offering practical business experiences to the next generation. Next, dive into the Theory of Constraints (TOC) and its transformative impact on project management and corporate strategy. Tony shares insights on implementing TOC, from startups to unlocking success with the Gold Tree method. Learn to identify and strengthen the weakest link for optimal performance. Wrapping up with a tech twist, explore the power of observability tools to drive efficiency and innovation. Plus, delve into augmented reality (AR) and the importance of lifelong learning in entrepreneurship. Join us for a journey through tradition and tech, where Tony's tales offer rich lessons and inspiration.

Ever wondered how tech giants like Dropbox and LogMeIn skyrocketed to industry dominance? Look no further, as the mastermind behind their growth strategies, the acclaimed author of "Hacking Growth," - Sean Ellis, joined us to unpack the secrets of explosive startup success. From the art of nailing product-market fit to the finesse required in execution, our guest delves into the captivating stories behind turning startups into unicorns. He shares the wisdom gleaned from guiding countless companies through market disruptions and the evolution of marketing strategies via meticulous data analysis. Our guest's textured narrative reveals the indispensable role of problem-solving and strategic marketing, including how a sophisticated tracking system built by Eastern European developers was a game-changer for optimizing marketing ROI. The discussion is teeming with tales of triumph, adaptation, and the pivotal role that innovative approaches to user acquisition and the freemium model have played in redefining business growth. Wrapping up the episode, we explore the power of cross-functional team collaboration and data-driven experimentation that has guided companies to achieve billion-dollar revenues at breakneck speeds. Our guest emphasizes fostering a culture of ownership and aligning teams towards shared growth objectives. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur, a marketing maven, or anyone enthralled by the relentless pursuit of success, this episode is packed with invaluable insights that will inspire you to harness the full potential of growth hacking strategies.

Embark on an exceptional exploration of financial leadership and sustainability with a visionary in green economy thought leadership. At just 23, they were at the helm of a multimillion-dollar venture, swiftly grasping the gravity of fiscal sustainability and the tangible application of economic theory. Our conversation takes you through an odyssey of financial accountability, from managing student union services to confronting national debt issues, painting a vivid picture of the crucial role fiscal responsibility plays in both individual enterprises and the broader economic landscape. The journey continues as our guest delves into their childhood experiences of economic turmoil in Nigeria, the precursors to financial crises witnessed in Thailand, and how these shaped their comprehension of monetary value. Uncover the strategies to navigate through treacherous financial waters, the perils embedded within our economic systems, and the speculative investments birthed by an era of quantitative easing. The narrative shifts towards the critical integration of sustainability into corporate strategy, emphasizing the necessity for long-term commitment and the foundational resilience needed to thrive within the startup ecosystem. We wrap up with transformative insights on crisis management and the metamorphic power it harnesses for personal and organizational evolution. Our guest elucidates on the importance of workshops in readying leadership for unforeseen challenges and dispels common misconceptions about ESG rankings. As we close the chapter, we unveil "Green Sight," a comprehensive guide for embedding sustainability into the heart of corporate governance, thanking our guest for their profound contributions to the dialogue on economic and environmental stewardship. Join us for this enlightening discourse that equips you with the insights to steer through the intricate realms of economic and environmental custodianship.

Embark on an enlightening journey through the dynamic realm of digital currencies with our economist guest, Dr. Jonas, who's just returned from a Central Bank workshop in Bali and a FinTech conference in Singapore. The unique blend of experiences and deep knowledge of monetary policy and digital currencies shapes our episodes into a treasure trove of insights. From discussing the transformative role of Bitcoin on our financial systems to the intricate layers of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs), we cover it all. Our guest pulls back the curtain on his personal descent into the Bitcoin rabbit hole, revealing how this groundbreaking digital asset is challenging traditional notions of value, privacy, and economic autonomy. As we navigate the complexities of the global financial landscape, Jonas sheds light on Bitcoin's profound influence, debunking misconceptions and advocating for its energy innovation potential. We also scrutinize the emergence of stablecoins like Diem and dive into the evolving world of traditional banking as it intersects with the proliferation of bank digital money. This episode is not just a discussion—it's an exploration of the opportunities and hurdles that come with integrating cryptocurrency into everyday lives, as exemplified by El Salvador's unprecedented adoption of Bitcoin as legal tender. Closing our extensive discussion, we weigh the prospects of CBDCs against the critical issues of privacy and control. The conversation takes a turn towards the technical challenges and political debates that CBDC implementation has sparked, challenging us to consider the future of our financial systems. While we dance around the idea of central banks utilizing blockchain technology, we maintain a healthy skepticism about the power struggles inherent in such a shift. For those intrigued by the intersection of economic philosophy and technology, this episode is a vibrant tapestry that unravels the human element central to the evolution of currency. Join us for a session that's sure to leave you contemplating the digital shift in our monetary world.

Embark on a visionary journey into the future of leadership and innovation with our guest, Jan Henrik Bartscht, the dynamic force steering Leadapreneur's innovation powerhouse. Hailing from both the UK and Germany, Jan is not your typical CEO; he's a futurist, disruptor, and visionary committed to reshaping 21st-century leadership. In this episode, we unravel the intricacies of Jan's approach to building an ecosystem that engages talent for innovative outcomes at scale, all executed reliably, predictably, and with guaranteed ROI. Drawing parallels to our previous exploration with Jan, we delve into Jan's dual cultural roots, examining how they shape his worldview and contribute to redefining leadership in the interconnected landscape of the modern world. Prepare for a robust discussion as we dive into Jan's entrepreneurial journeys. He will articulate his perspectives on the inherent benefits of creativity and innovation. His aspirations extend beyond mere business enhancement; he aims to leverage innovation as a catalyst for positive transformations in the world, seeking to bring forth the utmost benevolence to those in his sphere of influence. Join us for an episode that stimulates the mind and serves as a clarion call for changemakers eager to navigate the evolving landscape of leadership and innovation.

Picture yourself embarking on a journey to the heart of sustainability with our fascinating guest, Simon, the founder of Handprint. Simon's odyssey from the heartland of Belgium to a lecturing post at Singapore Management University has gifted him a deep understanding of the environment, economic structures, and the role businesses can play in knitting these woven threads together. We'll share valuable insights from his world travels and experiences in an orphanage in South America, unearthing lessons on community, resilience, and the humbling beauty of human connection. This episode questions the status quo, challenges the well-worn paths of environmental dialogue, and highlights the importance of embracing innovative approaches in the fight against climate change. We explore the power of nature's positive feedback cycles and the potential economic and human life benefits they can unleash. From the heated debate of switching from nuclear to coal, to the potential consequences of reducing the use of fertilizers in agriculture, and the exciting possibility of transforming farmland into sustainable tourism or nature rewilding—no stone is left unturned. Finally, we take a deep look at the innovative strategies employed by Handprint to promote sustainability. We discuss their unique business model, which combines technology and business to foster transparency and accountability in the environmental space. You'll hear about their upcoming product, a novel banking card that contributes to positive impact projects with each transaction. We also discuss their collaborations with various industries and their efforts to foster a marketplace where NGOs set the price for a unit of impact. Join us, as we navigate these complex waters with Simon, gaining invaluable insights and sparking thought-provoking discussions about our shared future.

What makes an ordinary man extraordinary? How does an athlete with unyielding tenacity turn an unthinkable diagnosis into a beacon of hope? Join us on this inspiring journey through the life and legacy of Terry Fox, a man whose spirit continues to impact the world. Listen to intimate family stories shared by Terry's brother, Darrell Fox, and learn about Terry's determination that resonates with millions even today. From being a regular student and athlete to becoming an emblem of hope, Terry’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. Dive into Terry's monumental cross-Canada marathon - a testament to his willpower, which saw him run a marathon every day for 143 days straight, despite losing his leg to cancer. Darrell shares insights into the family's reaction to Terry's audacious plan and how they stood by him through thick and thin. As we conclude this journey, we reflect on Terry Fox's legacy and the ongoing fight against cancer. From the establishment of the Terry Fox Foundation, the Terry Fox Research Institute to the creation of the Terry Fox Center, Darrell enlightens us about the invaluable contributions these organizations have made in the realm of cancer research. Emphasizing the importance of involving the younger generation and the potential of emerging technologies, this episode serves as a compelling reminder of the power of determination and the lasting impact one individual can have on the world. Tune in and draw inspiration from a tale of unyielding resilience and relentless hope. Visit the below website to see the legacy and work the Terry Fox Research Institute is doing. https://www.tfri.ca/

Ever wondered how Singapore, a small yet mighty nation, has become a beacon of progress and functionality? Buckle up as we take you on a journey through this impressive success story, guided by our guest Kaijie NG, a former leader in Singapore with an intriguing career path that spans both public sector and startup scenes. We discuss the country's thriving world of entrepreneurship, the unique social contract between its people and government, and how one's personal experience of social mobility plays a pivotal role in a nation's success. As our conversation unfolds, we shift our focus to the intricacies of corporate innovation. Our guest shares valuable insights about their work at IMDA and the crucial role this organization plays in fostering a symbiotic relationship between corporates and startups. Through the Open Innovation Platform, they've been able to facilitate numerous problem statements and exponentially grow the ecosystem. Get ready to delve into the nitty-gritty of aligning different business cultures, navigating growth challenges in startups, and the role of trust in successful mergers and acquisitions. As we wrap up, we'll explore how the IMDA's innovation division is driving forward corporate innovation strategies. Hear about the efforts to bring together corporates and startups, the importance of diverse solution providers, and the vision to help corporates become self-sufficient in innovation. We'll also discuss the success of the Open Innovation Platform, it's impact on the Singapore market, and how it bridges the gap between corporates and startups. By the end of this episode, you'll walk away with a newfound appreciation for Singapore's entrepreneurial culture, the value of social contracts, and the ongoing efforts to propel corporate innovation.

Step into the future with Craig Wing, a visionary futurist, PhD candidate, and global keynote speaker who has graced stages in over 45 countries. In an era where the boundaries of the physical, digital, and biological worlds are increasingly intertwined, Craig, with his expertise in emergent futures thinking and disruptive technologies, offers a unique lens to view the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. He astutely observes, "If the work can be done by a machine, it's disrespectful to give it to a human being." Having consulted with the UN, moderated the 10th BRICs summit, and even turned down an opportunity with one of Richard Branson’s companies, Craig's experiences provide a rich tapestry of insights. Dive deep into the art of "futureproofing," exploring everything from the intricacies of the fourth industrial revolution to the ethical dilemmas of AI. As he challenges us to reflect on our current stance, he reminds us, "The education system is a systems issue. You don't fix it by saying, 'let's create more jobs.'" Whether you're an entrepreneur, a corporate leader, or simply curious about the trajectory of our world, this masterclass is your compass. With Craig's thought-provoking assertion, "By 25, I wasn't black, white, or anything in between. What was I?", he invites listeners to ponder identity, technology, and the transformative landscape ahead, all while sharing tales from his own journey – from converting his car to electric to hosting sessions at the African Innovation Symposium. Embark on this enlightening journey with a man who's not just predicting the future but actively shaping it. Equip yourself with the knowledge and tools to not just anticipate what's next but to be an active participant in its creation. Join us in this masterclass and be inspired to shape your own future.

In the newest episode of 'Crucial Conversations', we invite you on a captivating journey with AJ, a tech visionary whose entrepreneurial spirit knows no bounds. Fresh from university, AJ faced the challenges of his first business head-on, setting the stage for a career defined by adaptability and innovation. From his foundational roots in IT, he ventured into the nuanced world of Digital Sovereignty, and further delved into the complexities of Quantum Computing. But AJ's aspirations didn't stop there. With eyes set on the cosmos, he's now exploring the vastness of space, pushing the boundaries of what's possible. Throughout the episode, listeners are treated to a series of enlightening insights: AJ's Business Philosophy:Market Acumen:Strategic Collaborations:Market Realities:Product Evolution:Community Building:This episode is more than a conversation; it's a masterclass in tech entrepreneurship. AJ's evolution from IT to the forefront of technological innovation is a testament to his relentless drive and visionary zeal. Tune in to 'Crucial Conversations' and immerse yourself in the world of a true tech pioneer.

Join us for a riveting episode of "Crucial Conversations" with the dynamic Elke Biechele, the powerhouse at the helm of RisikoTek Pte Ltd. Having lent her expertise to global institutions like Standard Chartered Bank, UBS, and the European Central Bank, Elke is no stranger to the intricacies of the financial world. Dive deep as she unveils her passion project – RisikoTek and its revolutionary AMALIA software, a beacon in financial crime intelligence. Unravel the world of tokenized litigation finance and its potential impact on traditional stock market dynamics. Journey through Elke's formidable career, from managing global derivative portfolios in London to setting up risk frameworks in Singapore. And as a trailblazing woman in tech and finance, Elke's mission is evident – to challenge, expose, and combat the fraudulent underbelly of the financial realm. Tune in for insights, innovations, and inspiration from a woman dedicated to combating the shadows of financial misdeeds.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Ng Nichol, the CEO of X-Inc group of companies, Co-Founder of The Food Bank Singapore, and board member of several NGOs. In this episode, we take a deep dive into Nichol's extraordinary journey with her family's food supply business, FoodXervices Inc, and her audacious digital transformation drive that turned the company's fortunes around. We'll learn about the challenges she faced during the company's transition from a traditional business model to a tech-driven one, and how her meticulous, hands-on approach facilitated the process. Hear how Nichol spearheaded the company's foray into the digital space, teaching staff to use new technologies, setting up a corporate website, and implementing an Enterprise Resource Planning software to streamline operations. Nichol shares her compelling story of rejuvenating the family business, acquiring it, setting up a modern enterprise, and navigating through the upheaval of the COVID-19 pandemic. Once again Nichol is faced with the consequences of a black swan event that has pushed this business to the brink of survival and she openly shares the challenges and next steps to be taken. We also unpack the amazing work being accomplished with the Food Bank and the positive impact this is having for those in need. Tune in for an insightful dialogue on business transformation, resilience, and the power of digital technology.

Tune into this compelling episode of Crucial Conversations with Dr. Viveka Kalidasan, an esteemed technopreneur, recognized as one of MIT Technology Review's '35 Innovators Under 35' and 'Top 100 Women in Technology' in Singapore. From creating patient-centric medical devices to initiating 'The Industry 5.0 Women' venture building program at The Edify Project, Dr. Kalidasan's pursuits empower diversity and foster innovation. As the Director of Venture Building and Business Development (APAC) with Vertical Velocity Ventures, she aids businesses scale in the SG & APAC region. Besides this, she is a Board Member at the Singapore South Asia Chamber of Commerce and Industries (SSACCI), and the brains behind Let-Lab, an innovation lab of Ultra Clean Holdings Inc. In our conversation, we discuss her impactful mentorship work, her ground-breaking research in wireless sensing sutures, and her vision for sustainable Industry 4.0 innovations. Join us for an inspiring look into Dr. Kalidasan's exceptional journey in the realms of technology, entrepreneurship, and leadership.

Welcome to another episode of Crucial Conversations, in this episode we sit down with Cheng Guo, the founder of Step VR, a company that is revolutionizing the metaverse experience. Imagine immersing yourself in a movie as a character, playing counterstrike with your friends in the metaverse while running through the physical world. What if AI could change the ending of a game or movie based on the actions you take during the experience, this is all becoming a reality. Are you ready, player one! Step VR, founded in 2013, has dedicated nearly a decade to perfecting the technologies required to create an authentic virtual reality experience. With a remarkable portfolio of over 80 patents, Step VR has developed core technologies such as laser positioning, motion capture, robotic haptic, and an omnidirectional motion system. These innovations have culminated in the creation of the world's first and only metaverse portal device, capable of replicating all five senses within the virtual world. Meta and Apple Vision Pro hold onto your helmets! In our conversation, Cheng takes us on a journey through his genesis story, revealing the inspiration behind his vision for Step VR. We delve into the fusion of different technologies that enable this immersive experience, elevating it above the rest. We also explore the pain points and challenges Cheng encountered along the way, from building a dedicated team to scaling this technology on a global level. But it doesn't stop there. We uncover how Step VR's technology is fostering new communities, bringing people together in large warehouses to engage in joint combat experiences reminiscent of popular games like Counter-Strike. This technology is redefining the boundaries of teamwork and collaboration in virtual environments. One of Step VR's most remarkable achievements is the regeneration of the five senses. Through a decade of research and development, Cheng and his team have created a metaverse experience that fully immerses users with sensory feedback. Their flagship product, Gates 01, features a groundbreaking omnidirectional treadmill that eliminates spatial limitations and motion sickness, providing a seamless VR experience. Cheng also shares his futurist thinking and provides glimpses of his upcoming innovations and ventures. As a true pioneer, he envisions using technology to propel humankind forward, and his ideas are sure to spark your imagination. Join us in this captivating episode of Crucial Conversations as we uncover the story behind Step VR, the challenges faced, the remarkable technology developed, and the future that Cheng Guo envisions for the metaverse and beyond.

In this insightful Crucial Conversation episode, we are honored to welcome Jonathan Lau from Nervotec, a distinguished former fighter pilot and a visionary entrepreneur who has seamlessly transitioned from the disciplined ranks of the military to the dynamic realm of technology startups. Jonathan opens up about his intriguing career transition, elucidating the parallels between the mental fortitude required in the cockpit and the resilience needed to pilot a startup. He shares the genesis of Nervotec, which was conceived through the identification of a critical need during his flights. As we delve deeper, Jonathan imparts invaluable wisdom on tackling the challenges of developing cutting-edge technology. He draws from his extensive experience in leading project development teams for the RSAF, focusing on how the principles of strategic planning and agile leadership in the military are transferable and immensely beneficial in the unpredictable and fast-paced startup environment. Furthermore, we discuss the scaling of Nervotec’s innovative technology globally. With an emphasis on Jonathan’s approach to team building, product scaling, and market penetration, startup founders and leaders will gain unique insights into navigating the often turbulent waters of international expansion. This episode is an enriching resource for startup founders, aspiring entrepreneurs, and anyone with an interest in innovation, leadership, and strategic planning. Join us as we chart the course of a leader who has successfully navigated the transition from commanding the skies to steering the helm of trailblazing tech ventures. Embark on a journey of learning and exploration with Jonathan Lau in this captivating episode of the Nervotec Podcast.

Embark on this enlightening journey with us, at the dawn of the U.S.'s decision to raise its debt ceiling—a choice that looms an impending tsunami of monetary creation (set to the ceaseless drone of money printers), promising to rev up the stealthy wheels of inflation, and casting a long shadow of financial despair for untold generations of Americans. Amid the brewing tempest, a global banking crisis is tottering, poised to unleash financial havoc far and wide. We usher you into a gripping episode, guiding you through the realm of Bitcoin—the beacon of hope in this landscape of looming financial meltdown. Dan Clarke delves deep into the world of Bitcoin, beginning with the enigmatic origin story of its creator, Satoshi Nakamoto. Unearthing the ground-breaking white paper that ignited the cryptocurrency revolution, Dan explores Satoshi's vision of a decentralized peer-to-peer electronic cash system that could bypass traditional financial institutions. As Dan demystifies Bitcoin mining, he unveils the innovative process that maintains the Bitcoin network's integrity while creating new bitcoins. He discusses 'stacking sats,' a term derived from satoshis, the smallest unit of Bitcoin, symbolizing the regular accumulation of Bitcoin as an investment strategy and a form of resistance against traditional financial structures. The conversation takes a critical turn as Dan delves into the historical banking crises, the abandonment of the gold standard, and the resulting monetary policies that have led to our current financial predicament. Dan elucidates on the stealth tax that is inflation, caused by excessive money printing and its impact on the purchasing power of the average citizen. We tie this into the concept of perpetual war, funded by incessant money creation, and its devastating global effects. Finally, Dan positions Bitcoin as the escape hatch designed precisely for this moment in history. With its capped supply, decentralized nature, and resistance to censorship, Bitcoin offers a lifeline out of the failing traditional financial system and the stealth tax of inflation. This episode is not just an exploration of Bitcoin but also an urgent call to listeners to learn, engage, and seize control of their financial narrative. It invites everyone to understand the principles behind Bitcoin, contemplate its potential impact, and make informed decisions about their financial future. In a world marked by financial uncertainty, this episode of Crucial Conversations with Dan Clarke is a must-listen for anyone keen to understand the significance of Bitcoin and its potential to redefine our economic landscape.

Immerse yourself in this inspiring episode of Crucial Conversations as we explore the remarkable journey of Dr. Loretta Chen, a distinguished creative force, academic, and entrepreneur. We delve into her various roles, experiences, and her latest venture, Smobler Studios, which pioneers brand-building and inclusive communities in the metaverse. Throughout our conversation, we examine Dr. Chen's incredible achievements, including her work as Executive Creative Director for world-renowned brands, her efforts in empowering women, the LGBTQIA+ community, and her dedication to fostering inclusive environments in the rapidly evolving metaverse. We also discuss her impressive academic background, spanning from being the first Singaporean woman to receive a full PhD scholarship from UCLA and National University of Singapore to her current teaching and visiting professor roles at prestigious institutions such as Carnegie Mellon, Stanford University, and the University of Toronto. Join us as we uncover Dr. Chen's passion for breaking stereotypes, championing advocacy, and promoting change through her extraordinary endeavors in higher education, the arts, and her commitment to creating a more inclusive and compassionate world.