The Thriving Misfits

Most leadership advice is built on Western norms but what if Asia’s real leadership power has been overlooked all along?In this bold Season 3 opener of The Thriving Misfits, Fyiona Yong sits down with Desmond Chan - Head of Business Partnering for SEA at Arup - to challenge conventional leadership thinking and reframe what it means to lead in Asia today.Together, they unpack why Asian leaders are often misunderstood, the invisible pressures they navigate, and how cultural strengths like harmony, context, and collective trust can become a competitive advantage. From breaking the bamboo ceiling to embracing “yin-yang leadership", this episode sets the tone for a season that reimagines leadership through a distinctly Asian lens.

For the grand finale of Season 2, Fyiona sits down with Mary Oxley, Vice President at DHL, for a heartfelt conversation on what true sisterhood in leadership really means. Mary shares powerful insights on the impact of women supporting women by lifting each other higher, creating space for vulnerability, and standing stronger together through every chapter of growth and challenge.Filled with warmth, wisdom, and real talk, this episode celebrates shared strength and the kind of authentic connection that makes us all better leaders and better humans.

In this episode of The Thriving Misfits, Fyiona Yong speaks with Mel Leow, Master Certified Coach and founder of Catalyst Coach, about what truly defines success in coaching. They explore whether credentials still matter, how coaches can stay authentic in a changing world, and why courage and consciousness often matter more than certification. A candid, future-focused conversation for coaches and leaders ready to evolve with purpose.

In this inspiring episode of The Thriving Misfits, Fyiona Yong speaks with Paul Morris, VP of Learning at Eagle’s Flight and a global facilitator with over 20 years of experience shaping leaders and cultures around the world.Paul shares his remarkable journey of reinvention in his 40s—from confronting burnout and depression to facing his paralyzing fear of flying and ultimately discovering freedom as his core value. He opens up about the lessons learned through sabbaticals, self-discovery, and the courage to realign his life with purpose and happiness.

In this episode, host Fyiona Yong sits down with Jackie Dela Cruz, Managing Director of SmartAge Solutions and one of the “Most Influential Filipina Women in the World” recognized by FWN.With a 20-year career at Shell and now shaping the future of smart living through innovation and technology, Jackie brings a wealth of leadership wisdom. She shares why compassionate leadership is more than a “nice-to-have”—it’s a business imperative.Tune in as Jackie unpacks how leading with heart inspires teams, empowers women, and drives meaningful impact and without losing the human touch.

Today’s guest is Kai Ng, Bar Manager at Hong Kong’s award-winning Quinary. Born in Germany but quick-witted like a true Hong Konger, Kai has hospitality in his blood and a natural gift for blending showmanship, craftsmanship, and storytelling behind the bar. In this episode, he shares his journey through some of the world’s top bars, his observations on drinking culture across different countries, and how he leads his team in an industry where alcohol is ever-present. Plus, why a classic Martinez remains his go-to after a long day.

In this episode of The Thriving Misfits, Fyiona sits down with Mary Foxworth—an inclusive intimacy educator and founder of the Foxworth Institute. Mary opens up about her bold journey from corporate life to pioneering conversations around sexual health, intimacy, and relationships. Together, they explore why intimacy education matters, the unspoken challenges couples face (especially around parenthood), and how embracing diversity in relationships can lead to deeper connection.

What happens when you begin to question the emotional safety of your childhood—and start the work of healing? In this powerful episode, Fyiona Yong is joined by Sian Crossley, a UK-qualified psychotherapist, trauma-informed coach, and founder of Break the Cycle Coaching. Sian supports adults who grew up with emotionally immature, unavailable, or self-absorbed parents—helping them unlearn survival patterns, reconnect with their authentic selves, and start reparenting from a place of compassion and clarity.

Welcome to The Thriving Misfits—a podcast that celebrates those who don’t fit the mold. In this episode, Fyiona Yong speaks with Chris, Co-Managing Director at NovAzure, about his journey from Shell to sustainable entrepreneurship. Born to German and Chinese-Brazilian parents, Chris shares how navigating identity, culture, and career transitions helped him turn being a ‘misfit’ into a superpower for leadership and innovation.

Host Fyiona Yong sits down with Vicky South: solo traveler, entrepreneur, and community builder who has lived and worked across Vietnam, India, Hong Kong, and now Argentina.Vicky shares powerful stories about cultivating courage through solo travel, redefining professional identity, and creating community wherever she lands; from immersive wine events to supporting those in need. She reveals what it takes to face fear, find belonging, and grow through curiosity.Whether you’re dreaming of your own adventure or navigating life’s changes, this episode is filled with insights to inspire your journey.Listen now and remember: you don’t have to have it all figured out to start.

Part 2:In this episode, I’m joined by Qi Zhai-McCartney - a Couples Therapist, Coach, and former finance professional whose journey spans eight countries and careers from Wall Street to wellness.Now based in Singapore, Qi shares her personal IVF story and insights on ambition, identity, and navigating life’s hardest transitions with emotional intelligence and grace.Connect with Qi on LinkedIn

Part 1:In this episode, I’m joined by Qi Zhai-McCartney - a Couples Therapist, Coach, and former finance professional whose journey spans eight countries and careers from Wall Street to wellness. Now based in Singapore, Qi shares her personal IVF story and insights on ambition, identity, and navigating life’s hardest transitions with emotional intelligence and grace.Connect with Qi on LinkedIn

In this powerful episode, Fyiona Yong is joined by The Brand Coach, Caleb Low—founder of the #RippleEffectMethod. Caleb shares his deeply personal journey of leaving behind his established reputation in Singapore to support his wife’s career in Malaysia, and what it took to rebuild his brand and identity from scratch in a new market.We dive into topics like ego, reinvention, redefining masculinity, and creating real influence without the spotlight. Caleb offers candid reflections, practical branding wisdom, and inspiring advice on how to make a lasting impact—no matter where you are or what stage you’re in.

In this episode, host Fyiona Yong speaks with global leader Jane Ngugi, whose dynamic career has spanned Kenya, Geneva, Dubai, Korea, and Singapore. Jane shares how her multicultural journey shaped her perspective on diversity, equity, and inclusion, and the personal lessons that helped her thrive through change. From childhood values to leading global teams, Jane offers powerful insights and advice for anyone feeling like a misfit in their professional journey.

What does it really take to create a workplace where people feel valued, engaged, and inspired to stay? In this episode, Fyiona Yong sits down with Sam Lau, founder of Total Loyalty Company (TLC), to explore the power of employee engagement, wellness, and building loyalty from within.With over 30 years of experience and a pioneering approach to staff rewards and workplace culture, Sam shares his entrepreneurial journey, the growing pains of scaling a purpose-driven business, and why personal wellness should never be sacrificed for success. From humble beginnings to leading one of Asia’s top engagement companies, Sam’s story is a masterclass in integrating passion, purpose, and people-first leadership.

In this inspiring episode of The Thriving Misfits, I am sitting down with Janet Ledger, CEO of Community Business, to explore the power of social mobility. From her working-class roots to executive leadership, Janet shares her journey, the pivotal moments that shaped her, and her mission to create inclusive, high-performing workplaces. Tune in for powerful insights, practical advice, and a heartfelt conversation about breaking barriers and building a more equitable future.

In this episode, I welcome Jeff Rotmeyer, founder of ImpactHK and Love 21 Foundation, who has dedicated his life to empowering individuals facing homelessness, Down syndrome, and autism. Jeff shares his inspiring journey, the challenges of driving social change, and the power of community in transforming lives. Tune in for an uplifting conversation on leading with compassion, resilience, and purpose.Want to make a difference? Support Jeff’s incredible work:👉 ImpactHK – Helping the homeless in Hong Kong: impacthk.org👉 Love 21 Foundation – Empowering individuals with Down syndrome and autism: love21foundation.com

In this episode of The Thriving Misfits, host Fyiona Yong sits down with Dr. Wanjiku Gichohi, a public health nutrition researcher whose career spans eight countries and countless impactful projects addressing food insecurity. Wanjiku opens up about navigating her career as a minority and an introvert, sharing insights on resilience, diversity, and inclusion. She reflects on her childhood in Kenya, her global experiences, and how running marathons keeps her connected to her roots. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that highlights the power of embracing our differences and thriving against the odds.

In this episode of The Thriving Misfits, I sit down with Michelle Mah, a mindfulness practitioner whose journey began through her struggles with disordered eating and corporate burnout. Michelle shares how she broke free from the cycle of excessive ‘doing’ and embraced mindfulness, self-compassion, and emotional regulation to reclaim her well-being. We explore the connection between perfectionism, workplace culture, and eating disorders, and how mindfulness can be a powerful tool for resilience.

In this episode of The Thriving Misfits, I sit down with Michelle Mah, a mindfulness practitioner whose journey began through her struggles with disordered eating and corporate burnout. Michelle shares how she broke free from the cycle of excessive ‘doing’ and embraced mindfulness, self-compassion, and emotional regulation to reclaim her well-being. We explore the connection between perfectionism, workplace culture, and eating disorders, and how mindfulness can be a powerful tool for resilience.

In this powerful episode of The Thriving Misfits, host Fyiona Yong speaks with Emily Tan, a wellness visionary and cancer survivor, about the often-overlooked journey of recovery after treatment. Emily shares her personal experiences with early menopause, resilience, and redefining wellness on her own terms.We explore the role of social support in cancer recovery, how loved ones can offer meaningful help without overstepping, and the challenges of transitioning back to life, work, and relationships post-treatment. Emily also shares insights on advocating for more inclusive workplace policies and the importance of intentional habits in healing.Whether you’re a cancer survivor, a caregiver, or simply looking to foster a more compassionate community, this conversation is a must-listen.

Join The Thriving Misfits as host Fyiona Yong chats with Marga Laurel, a leader in employer branding at Ciena and a passionate advocate for neurodiversity. Marga shares her journey with ADHD, anxiety, and depression, her efforts to foster inclusive workplaces, and tips for thriving as a neurodiverse professional.Embrace your strengths and create a more inclusive world—listen now!

In this episode of The Thriving Misfits, I sit down with Helen Corke, a seasoned recruiter and passionate DEI advocate, to explore the intersection of intuition, leadership, and diversity. Helen shares her journey of blending energy work with business strategy, insights on hiring for inclusive cultures, and practical tips for trusting your gut in personal and professional life.If you’ve ever felt out of place or wanted to strengthen your intuition, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable advice. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!

In this episode of "The Thriving Misfits," we are speaking with Brian Henderson, an award-winning advocate for mental health, wellness, and DEI. Brian shares his journey of creating safe spaces for emotional vulnerability, especially for men, and fostering empathy, inclusion, and psychological safety in the workplace. As the founder of Whole Business Wellness, Brian integrates wellness and leadership to build thriving teams and cultures. Tune in for insights on mental health, DEI, and how vulnerability can empower communities to connect and grow.

In this episode of "The Thriving Misfits," host Fyiona Yong chats with Anja Elstner, a global leader and artist. Anja shares her journey from leading multinational teams to rediscovering her passion for art during the pandemic. Tune in to hear how she turned recycled cardboard into creative masterpieces and how her global experiences shaped her views on culture, identity, and resilience.

In this episode of *The Thriving Misfits*, I’m joined by two inspiring women making a difference in the world of rare diseases. Nadiah, with over 20 years of experience in corporate, NGO, and humanitarian work, is a passionate advocate for sustainability, social impact, and human rights. As President of the Malaysian Rare Disorders Society, she is a force for positive change, advocating for national action plans and support for rare disorders. Joining her is Eleanor Johnson, who moved from the UK to Malaysia and has become a key voice in supporting families dealing with Kabuki Syndrome, a rare genetic condition. Through their shared commitment to inclusion and empathy, both Nadiah and Eleanor highlight the importance of advocacy, community, and support systems in making the world a better place for individuals with rare diseases. Learn more about the "Malaysian Rare Disorders Society": https://mrds.org.my Support Eleanor's family fundraiser: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/team-lenkiewicz-go-rafting-in-the-rainforest

In this episode of The Thriving Misfits, we sit down with Tina Arcilla, a leading advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in APAC. Currently driving DEI initiatives at Manulife, Tina's career has spanned over a decade, including her impactful role at Community Business' Diversity and Inclusion in Asia Network (DIAN). Tina shares her inspiring journey of shaping inclusive work environments and empowering employees across Asia. We discuss her Filipino heritage, the challenges of fostering DEI in a corporate setting, and practical tips for transforming differences into strengths. Tune in to hear how Tina is changing the DEI landscape, and how you too can embrace diversity and inclusion in your own life and workplace.

In this episode of "The Thriving Misfits," I welcome Greg Solomon and his daughter Natalie. Greg, an actuary and consultant in insurtech and healthtech, shares his journey from South Africa to Hong Kong, highlighting his diverse heritage and global career. Natalie, at nearly 8 years old, impresses with her love for languages, literature, and music. Together, they discuss their unique project—reimagining Kahlil Gibran's “The Prophet” from a female perspective. Tune in to hear how this dynamic duo embodies creativity, resilience, and the power of embracing diversity. Don't miss their book, “The Prophet – reimagined through a woman’s voice,” available on Amazon and in Hong Kong at Bookazine stores. Connect with Greg on Linkedin Connect with your host Fyiona on Linkedin

In this episode of "The Thriving Misfits," we delve into the transformative journey of Eugene Seah, who transitioned from a corporate career to becoming an Abundance Coach after a personal crisis. Eugene shares how his setback led him to discover his life's purpose and how he now empowers others to live abundantly. Connect with Eugene on LinkedIn Connect with your host Fyiona on LinkedIn

This week, we’re excited to feature Jessica Chan, a seasoned Dietitian from Vancouver with over 8 years of experience in nutritional therapy and education. Jessica’s approach challenges the one-size-fits-all model, emphasizing personalized, sustainable health solutions. In this episode, Jessica discusses her journey, the impact of cultural values on nutrition, and how she promotes body positivity and inclusivity in her practice. We’ll also dive into practical tips for navigating diet culture and building a positive relationship with food. Join us for an inspiring conversation on how Jessica turns diverse experiences into effective health strategies and learn how you can thrive on your own unique journey. Connect with Jessica on LinkedIn Connect with your host Fyiona on LinkedIn

Join us as we explore Nikki's inspiring story and her mission to build a truly inclusive and sustainable workforce. From navigating intercultural dynamics to championing transgender professional leadership, Nikki shares invaluable tips and strategies for turning differences into strengths. Listen now to discover how Nikki's efforts are reshaping DE&I landscapes and learn how you, too, can make a difference in your community and workplace. Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Connect with your host Fyiona on LinkedIn

In this episode of "The Thriving Misfits," we delve into the remarkable journey of Liz Bradford, whose life has spanned from humble beginnings on a UK farm to influential leadership roles across three continents. Liz shares her insights on leadership, resilience, and thriving in a rapidly changing world, with a particular focus on fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in global corporate environments. We explore how her early farm life shaped her approach to leadership and her passion for organizational health. Liz also discusses the unique challenges and strategies for advocating for gender equity in traditionally male-dominated industries. Connect with Liz on LinkedIn Connect with your host Fyiona on LinkedIn

Our guest today is AJ Kulatunga. Born and raised in Australia to Sri Lankan parents, AJ brings a uniquely diverse global perspective, enriching his approach to leadership and innovation. As a former Young Achiever of the Year with an entrepreneurial career spanning two decades in business and technology, AJ has observed that those who truly change the world do things differently. Whether presenting captivating keynotes, facilitating engaging workshops, or strategizing for the future, AJ is dedicated to making tomorrow better than today. Check out AJ's talk on "The Difference between Racism and Prejudice" Connect with your Host Fyiona Yong on LinkedIn

This episode features Mukta Arya, CHRO at Société Générale, who brings extensive leadership in Human Resources to the conversation. Mukta's strategic initiatives have significantly shaped organizational culture, fostering environments where individuality is celebrated and nurtured. Tune in as Mukta shares her journey, insights, and strategies for creating inclusive workplaces that empower individuals to thrive authentically. Connect with Mukta on LinkedIn Connect with your Host Fyiona on LinkedIn

Today we're joined by Lyn Lee, a collaborative and forward-thinking professional renowned for her unique perspective and objective mindset. With a background spanning government and private sectors, Lyn leads global diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives for a FTSE 100 company, making her a seasoned expert in navigating diverse cultural landscapes. As a change-maker and advocate for inclusion, Lyn brings a human touch to policy-making and implementation. Connect with Lyn on LinkedIn Connect with your host Fyiona on LinkedIn

In this episode, I am joined by Debbie Mannas, an award-winning HR strategist and diversity advocate. From her childhood as a Third Culture Kid to her leadership in DEI, Debbie's journey is marked by innovation and empowerment. Tune in as we explore her insights on navigating cultural complexities, fostering inclusion, and how her passion for music informs her DEI work, using her art to address and promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. Connect with Debbie on LinkedIn. Connect with your host Fyiona on LinkedIn.

In this episode, we'll explore Ray Liew's journey, his approach to integrating data and AI into everyday solutions. We'll also delve into how his "banana" identity has influenced his personal and professional life, providing him with a unique perspective on bridging cultural divides and fostering inclusion. Beyond his professional role, Ray co-hosts the podcast 'Talk Lah,' where he delves into the stories of successful millennials, offering insights on career transitions and personal development. He is also a fitness influencer, inspiring others to integrate healthy habits into their busy lives. Join us for an inspiring conversation with Ray Liew, only on "The Thriving Misfits. Connect with Ray on LinkedIn. Connect with your host Fyiona on LinkedIn.

In this episode of "The Thriving Misfits", I am chatting with Armando Flores Chiu, a Mexican-born financial advisor with a passion for cross-cultural communication. Armando shares his journey from studying in Canada, Paris, and Hong Kong to working in Shanghai, highlighting how his diverse experiences have shaped his career. The episode covers amusing cultural misunderstandings, and insights into managing finances across cultures. He also discusses incorporating diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) principles into financial advising and offers practical advice for those navigating non-traditional career paths. Connect with Armando on LinkedIn. Connect with the host Fyiona Yong on LinkedIn.

On this episode of "The Thriving Misfits," I am speaking with Alicia Lui, founder of Women in Sports Empowered Hong Kong (WISE). Alicia is a passionate advocate for sustainable development, gender equality, and sports empowerment, using sports to boost leadership skills for women and girls. Alicia shares her insights on promoting DEI in sports and beyond, emphasizing that we shouldn't hire for token representation but to embrace diversity of thoughts and perspectives. Connect with Alicia Lui on LinkedIn Connect with your host Fyiona Yong on LinkedIn

In this episode, we'll delve into Jimmy's inspiring story, exploring his insights on diversity, inclusion, and the intersectionality of identity in the evolving landscapes of education, technology, and entrepreneurship. Jimmy's journey is marked by his passion for innovation and a deep commitment to diversity and inclusion. As a member of the LGBTQ community, he brings a unique perspective to his leadership roles, including his experience leading a network during his MBA studies. Connect with Jimmy Lai on LinkedIn Connect with your host Fyiona Yong on LinkedIn

In this episode, we explore Janerose's insights on business transformation, her personal journey, and how she leverages her identity to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our paths first crossed when Janerose was planning to organize a Millennial Conference in Kenya and invited me to be one of the keynote speakers. Connect with JaneRose on LinkedIn⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Connect with the host Fyiona Yong

In today's episode, we're joined by Stef Teng, a Diversity & Talent Management specialist with extensive experience in financial services, insurance, and entertainment. Stef is a resilient change maker dedicated to fostering inclusion and driving impact through strategic partnerships. Join us as we delve into Stef's journey and uncover the transformative power of diversity and talent management. Connect with Stef on LinkedIn⁠ ⁠Connect with the host Fyiona Yong

In our Pilot Episode, I am speaking with Sudesh T, a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience across various industries. Sudesh is not just a business and culture change expert; he's a passionate advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion. Currently leading the DEI global agenda for Asia at Manulife, Sudesh is committed to creating workplaces where everyone can thrive and contribute, regardless of their background. Embracing diversity and inclusion isn't just a corporate agenda—it's a societal imperative. Connect with Sudesh on LinkedIn Connect with the host Fyiona Yong

Join me, Fyiona Yong, your host and fellow misfit, on a journey of resilience, diversity, and empowerment. In each episode, we'll dive into candid conversations with Third Culture Kids, global citizens, and misfits who have turned challenges into advantages. From navigating cultural complexities to defying societal norms, our guests will share their personal stories of struggle, resilience, and triumph. Whether you've felt like a misfit at some point in your life or are simply curious about the experiences of others, this podcast provides a safe space for exploration, reflection, and inspiration. Tune in to discover how embracing your uniqueness can be your greatest strength! 🚀 Don't miss out—subscribe now and join the thriving misfit community!