10. Chasing Adventure and Finding Belonging with Ruby Tan

In this episode of Before We Get There, host Nicholas Braman sits down with Ruby Tan, a Singaporean who pursued her dream of becoming an outdoor adventure guide, leading her to New Zealand. Ruby shares her story of leaving a traditional 9 to 5 job, dealing with cultural and personal challenges, and finding her true calling in the outdoors. The conversation covers her struggles with family expectations, the impact of COVID-19, and the personal growth that came from following her passions. Ruby candidly discusses her mental health journey and the resilience needed to live a life true to herself. Guest Links: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heyrubytan/  Podcast links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2h9gsrWKH9C1KY1OzR12kr?si=2a4d19970632465f   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/before-we-get-there/id1775182252 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beforewegettherepodcast/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nicholasbraman Website: https://nicholasbraman.com/before-we-get-there-podcast/  00:00 Introduction  04:04 Discovering a Love for the Outdoors 07:38 Career Path and Existential Crisis 09:55 Pursuing Outdoor Education in New Zealand 18:26 Family Reactions and Cultural Challenges 21:18 Returning to Singapore During COVID 24:52 Rediscovering Passion in South Korea 31:59 Balancing Work and Personal Life in the Outdoors 39:41 Making Friends and Building Community 43:02 Future Aspirations and Final Thoughts