The Leong Form

For every adult putting in the hours at work and slogging through the night, every hour spent working is an hour closer to retirement. Pop the poppers! Retirement is a desirable destination, but it can also be a pin drop you might well dread, especially if you’re not ready. So many things can derail your retirement plans – suffering job loss, declining health, acquiring a disability, making poor investments or being scammed of your life savings. What if you fail to retire?We address this on The Leong Form takeover, recorded at The Price of Tomorrow - a financial wellness festival presented by OCBC. We confront the quiet anxiety many Singaporeans face in their 50s — the fear of not having “enough,” and the uncertainty of what retirement looks like in today’s volatile world.From CPF realities and misunderstood benchmarks of adequacy, to rethinking investment strategies and insurance coverage, Stanley Leong’s guests unpack what it truly means to plan and re-plan for retirement amid longer lifespans and rising costs.Stanley picks the minds of Peh Er Yan (Group Director of CPF Board’s Communications & Engagement Group), independent actuarial consultant Alex Lee, and Timothy Liew (Head of Investments at OCBC). There’s no better time than now to get retirement-ready!The Leong Form is available on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts! --With the exception of the OCBC representative, the views and opinions expressed belong to the guest speakers and do not represent the views of OCBC Bank.

What makes someone step out of the “policy bubble” and into the political arena? And how does that decision reshape everything from leadership to family life? Minister of State for the Ministry of Digital Development and Information, and the Ministry of Education, JasminLau (@jasminlaujm), opens up about the turning points that changed her career, her convictions, and how she shows up as a mother, policymaker, and MP for Ang Mo Kio GRC. From confronting AI (what Jasmin refers to as “digital opium”), to mum guilt and what team sports have taught her, Jasmin reveals the unexpected ways her worlds collide. Also hear her musings on what it really takes to prepare every Singaporean to thrive in a hyper-digital age. Click on the links in bio to watch/hear Jasmin’s candid conversation with Hossan and Stanley Leong on The Leong Form! The Leong Form is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and on the YouTube channel.

From a metalhead to becoming Minister of State for Culture, Community and Youth, and for Manpower - this is the story of Dinesh Vasu Dash (@dineshvasudash).Dinesh has gone from leading troops in Afghanistan, to overseeing security at the Trump-Kim Summit in Singapore, to carrying the late Mr. Lee Kuan Yew’s casket.Hear how his experiences have forged his beliefs about leadership, sacrifice, and empathy.Dinesh also shares his reflections on mental health, supporting the vulnerable in society, and what it really means to include every Singaporean in our shared story.And of course, we had to quiz him about being a Metallica fan! From metal to the work he does at two ministries, Hossan and Stanley Leong are locked and loaded with questions on this brand new episode of The Leong Form.Watch and listen on Spotify, YouTube and Apple Podcasts. Go to links in bio or search ‘The Leong Form’ on your favourite platform now!

Our guest on this special episode is Dr Syed Harun Alhabsyi (@drsyedharun), Senior Parliamentary Secretary for the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of National Development.The former psychiatrist in private practice discloses how his experiences in medicine, community work, and education converge to shape his approach to national issues like supporting families living in public rental flats and students with special needs. The conversation also turns to what binds us as a nation, and how ordinary Singaporeans can play a part in strengthening the social fabric.

From Forbes director to self-taught chef, Shen Tan’s journey is anything but ordinary. Shen (@chefshentan & @ownselfmakechef) carved her own path through Singapore’s brutal F&B scene - from running hawker stalls and restaurants to private dining.In this episode, Shen shares:Why she traded in her power suit for an apronHow being self-taught shaped her philosophy (and her battles with imposter syndrome)Her unfiltered take on Singapore’s merciless F&B industryHer advice for aspiring café owners and home cooksThis episode packs a punch with a generous serving of sambal!Follow Shen’s work in and out of the kitchen at ownselfmakechef.com Enjoy more episodes of The Leong Form on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube!

Grief is universal, inevitable and unavoidable. Yet, it’s often misunderstood.In this episode of The Leong Form, brothers Hossan and Stanley dive into a deeply human conversation with George Chan - Counsellor, Grief Educator, and Breathwork Coach at This Is How We Heal (@this.is.how.we.heal).George spent three decades in the arts and entertainment industry before a personal turning point led him from theatre to therapy. His own healing journey in 2018 sparked a new calling to help others navigate grief, loss and the messy, non-linear road toward healing.In this conversation, we explore:What grief really isHow George’s theatre background informs his counselling practiceThe different types and stages of griefCoping mechanisms and when to seek extra supportHow we can walk alongside someone who is grievingThe personal strategies George uses to stay grounded while helping others through painGrief may be heavy, but this episode is full of hope as healing is possible.Follow George’s work at thisishowweheal.com.sg Listen to other episodes of The Leong Form on Apple Podcasts and watch them on Spotify and YouTube!Don’t forget to like, share and subscribe for more real conversations with Hossan and Stanley and their guests!

From breaking records on the track to shaping young minds in the classroom, this week’s guest knows all about life’s turning points.Siblings Hossan and Stanley Leong sit down with U.K. Shyam (@u.k.shyam1037), Singapore’s former national sprinter who held the 100m national record of 10.37s for an incredible 22 years! Shyam famously broke C. Kunalan’s long-standing record at the 2001 World University Games in Beijing.But what happens after the cheers fade and the spikes come off? Today, Shyam is an educator with a passion for youth development, and his story is a powerful lesson in resilience, purpose and transformation.In this conversation, we explore:How Shyam first got on the track and what inspired him to competeThe pressures, challenges, and darkest moments of elite sportWhat sprinting taught him about joy and disciplineWhy he chose to join the education sector after retiring in 2005Subscribe, like and add The Leong Form to your playlist so you’ll be the first off the blocks when the next episode drops!

What does it mean to live with courage, optimism and unstoppable grit? Our guest this week, Lim Lee Lee (@nicetheguidedog), embodies all of it and more.Born premature with congenital cataracts, Lee Lee lost her sight early in life, but she’s never let blindness define her. Today, she moves through life with the help of her guide dog, Hesta, and an unshakable belief in possibilities.Lee Lee wears many hats as an Accessibility & Arts Advocate, Theatre & Film Producer, Writer & Disability Arts Trainer, Entrepreneur & Co-Founder of Collective Perspectives (@collective.perspectives) - a social enterprise empowering Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). She’s also a 2022 Recipient of the Goh Chok Tong Enable Award.In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode, we talk about:Misconceptions and stereotypes about disabilityThe joys and challenges of living with a guide dog in SingaporeWhy independence is important to herWhat Singapore can do to become a more inclusive societyDon’t forget to like, share and subscribe for more inspiring stories on The Leong Form that challenge perspectives and celebrate resilience.

Our guest this episode is Kai Minejima-Lee (@kaiflysg), World Cup Freestyle Indoor Skydiving Champion and Singapore’s 2025 Sports Boy of the Year with more than a dozen medals to his name from international competitions in 2024!At just 16 years old, Kai’s journey is already packed with twists, turns and tumbles, and not just in the air. He opens up about:The turning point that set him on the path of competitive indoor skydivingOvercoming his darkest challenges as a young athleteThe exhilaration of competing (and winning!) on the world stageHis short- and long-term goals in sportJoining Kai on the episode is his mum, Naomi, who shares a parent’s perspective on raising a world champion and how she and fellow parents of Team Singapore athletes come together to support their children as they fly high!Watch The Leong Form podcast on YouTube and Spotify, or listen on Apple Podcasts for more inspiring conversations and behind-the-scenes stories with changemakers, champions and everyday heroes.

In this thought-provoking episode, Hossan and Stanley dive into the world of accents with international speaker and communication coach Heather Hansen (@heather.hansen) — TEDx speaker, author of Unmuted, PhD candidate in linguistics, and founder of Global Speech Academy.Inspired by Singapore’s national pledge, what if we added just one word — accent — to that iconic line: “Regardless of race, language, accent or religion…”Wouldn’t that be a more inclusive promise?In this conversation, we explore:Why accents are more than just sounds — and how they carry deep social, cultural and emotional weightWhat it was like for Heather adjusting to life (and lah) in Singapore, and the hilarious catch-no-ball moments she facedWhy we form biases around certain accents — and how these snap judgments can hold people backHow even positive bias can be damaging, and where imitation crosses the line into mockeryWhat TV shows like Mind Your Language got wrong (and right) about accent representationThe global implications of accent bias in hiring, leadership, and cross-cultural communicationAnd what YOU can do to check your own linguistic assumptions — and help build a world that listens betterDon’t forget to subscribe, like and add The Leong Form to your playlist to get notified of new episodes that spark real conversations about life, language and all its hues and accents.

Season 2 launches with Singapore’s only podcast siblings Hossan and Stanley Leong sitting down with Singapore’s comedy power couple, Rishi Budhrani (@rishibudhrani) and Sharul Channa (@thesharulchanna). From stage life to married life, this is a deep, unfiltered conversation that dives into:Their turning point into comedy — and whether there was a point they wanted outWhat it’s really like being married to someone in the same (and very loud) professionThe Sad Clown Paradox and how they manage mental wellness in a career built on making people laughThe serious side of comedy — the grind, being their authentic selves and navigating the fine line in today’s woke cultureAnd yes, who’s really the funnier one?Plus, watch Rishi and Sharul go head-to-head in a fast-paced word scramble challenge!Whether you’re a fan of stand-up, in a relationship with a creative, or just curious about the behind-the-scenes of comedy in Singapore, this episode is a rare and hilarious peek into the real lives of two of the country’s most iconic comedians.Follow Rishi and Sharul on these platforms:Rishi - www.rishibudhrani.com @rishibudhrani on Instagram and YouTubeSharul - @thesharulchanna on InstagramYou can also search them on YouTube for more laughs!

What's the difference between burnout and depression? Or a mentor and a coach? How do you tell if a life coach is legit? Hossan and Stanley are joined by Dr Jade Kua (Jade Life & Wellness) as she breaks down the importance of mental health and wellness  in a post-covid world.CW: This episode covers different issues related to mental health, including topics like suicide and depression, as part of our holistic discussion. --About the guestDr. Jade Kua is an emergency physician, Master Certified Coach, and founder of Jade Life & Wellness Coaching Academy. She blends medical expertise with holistic coaching to promote well-being, mindfulness, and personal growth. Her academy offers ICF-accredited training and mentoring for aspiring coaches seeking purposeful, connected lives. Find out more at https://www.jadelifeandwellness.com/

It's a brand-new age of media. What does it take to be a full-time content creator? In this double-guest episode, our hosts talk to Denise Teo (@Supercatkei) and See Min (@Smxne) about their creative processes, as well as the true opportunities and challenges carving a career on platforms Twitch and YouTube. --About the guestsDenise Teo, also known as supercatkei on the internet, is a live streamer, content creator and community builder. She is popularly known for her gaming, music and lifestyle content such as her viral Street Interviews. Recognized as one of the leaders in live streaming for Southeast Asia, Denise has spearheaded content-creator led events and mentorship programs for aspiring streamers and content creators.See Min Ng (@Smxne) is a Singaporean artist, YouTuber, and the pioneering force behind jagua body art in Singapore. She is the founder of Henndrawn, a studio that specializes in Jagua ink tattoos — a natural, temporary medium that mimics the look of real ink. A self-taught creative, Min weaves digital storytelling with soulful reflections on identity, mindfulness, and self-expression. Her cinematic YouTube films and visual artistry have earned her recognition in Singapore’s creative scene.

What's the difference between designer vs niche perfume? What about Eau De Toilette and Eau De Parfum? Can scents be more than just for beauty? Hosts Hossan and Stanley sit with CEO and artisan Jason Lee (Scent by SIX) to understand more about perfumery. --About The GuestJason Lee is the founder of Scent by SIX, a Singaporean fragrance brand known for creating meaningful, emotion-driven scents. Launched in 2016, the brand blends perfumery with purpose, often supporting mental wellness and community initiatives. Jason draws inspiration from personal stories and local culture, crafting fragrances that resonate on a deeper level. Under his leadership, Scent by SIX has become a respected name in Southeast Asia’s niche fragrance scene, championing both creativity and social impact. Find out more at scentbysix.com

Hossan and Stanley talk to entrepreneur Lucas Saw about running an apparel brand in an episode sure to inspire us all to pull up our socks, overcome the odds and the importance of drive in the younger generation. --About the guestLucas Saw is the director and visionary of apparel brand Talking Toes. With an entrepreneurial spirit and many years of brand consultancy under his belt, Lucas and his trusted team are on a quest to transform everyday commodities into pun-filled products that not only bring a smile, but also lasting positive impact for people and the planet. Find out more at talkingtoessocks.com

Fasten your seatbelts because special guests Ben and Jamie bring our hosts up to speed on the big disruption in the automotive world. --About The GuestsBenjamin Lau isn’t just an avid collector of vintage cars. With many decades of experience  in the industry, Ben keeps a keen eye and ear on the ever-changing automative world to ensure that every driver he meets is paired with a drive that works for them. It’s no wonder why people come to him for the best advice when picking their next ride. Jamie Nonis (they/them) is an independent journalist with over 20 years of experience in the luxury scene specialising in cars, watches, private jets, yachts and travel. They are especially passionate about interviewing influential captains of industry and illustrious personalities the likes of F1 drivers Charles Leclerc, Pierre Gasly and Alex Albon. Their work has been featured on platforms such as the BBC, Channel NewsAsia, The Straits Times, Esquire (Singapore), Vogue (Singapore) and The Peak (Singapore).

How should I choose a bottle of wine as a gift? What's the real difference between Champagne and Sparkling Wine? What are the faux pax when having a drink? All these questions and more as Hossan and Stanley chat with special guest François Barel from top wine merchant Grand Vin, breaking down how to appreciate a good glass of wine. --Throughout his career, François Barel has worked with chefs from across the world representing a total of 11 Michelin stars. He has over two decades of experience in some of the most exquisite restaurants, and notably Joël Robuchon in Singapore. As a way to impart his experience with the next generation, François also lectured at NYP, where he taught about Wine, Spirits, and Mixology in the Food and Beverage Management programme. François is now the Head Educator at renown fine wine merchant Grand Vin.

What is the right way to care for your skin? How much sunscreen should we really be using? Is anti-aging just a myth? Join Hossan and Stanley as they break it all down with special guest, Dr Martin Chio.--Dr Martin Chio is a Senior Consultant Dermatologist at the National Skin Centre Singapore, where he also completed his advanced speciality training in Dermatology. He was awarded an NMRC medical research fellowship as part of the MOH HMDP to pursue an MSc at University College London and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine. He is also a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians (London) and the Academy of Medicine Singapore; he served as the Chair of the Chapter of Dermatologists (2015–2019). Dr Chio is an avid clinician educator and has been appointed Adj Associate Professor with the Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, Duke-NUS Medical School & the NTU Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Clinical Senior Lecturer with the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine; he was awarded the YLLSOM Dean’s award for Teaching Excellence twice. He is a visiting consultant with the SAF Medical Corps & Tan Tock Seng Hospital and an associate mediator with the Singapore Mediation Centre. For his active volunteer work as a visiting dermatologist at both the Dover Park Hospice and Villa Francis home for the aged, he was awarded the Healthcare Humanity Award. In 2024, he was awarded the NHG Outstanding Citizenship award & the Red Ribbon award by Action for AIDS Singapore for advocacy work.

Are there really plums or oolong tea in my coffee beans like it says on the bag? Pineapple and coffee?! Can I reuse my coffee capsules? Hossan and Stanley sit down with Jonathan Teo from Kyuukei Coffee to brew up a conversation on how to appreciate the world of coffee. --After pivoting from the biotech industry, Jonathan is now the proud owner and founder of Kyuukei Coffee.With his team, he has continued to grow the brand from a simple coffee cart in 2023 into fully-run cafes in Singapore at both Alexandra and Maxwell. Like its name (which means “rest” in Japanese), Jonathan hopes that Kyuukei will continue to provide a warm refuge for people to connect and recharge from the busyness of life. Find out more at kyuukeicoffee.com.--After pivoting from the biotech industry, Jonathan is now the proud owner and founder of Kyuukei Coffee.With his team, he has continued to grow the brand from a simple coffee cart in 2023 into fully-run cafes in Singapore at both Alexandra and Maxwell. Like its name (which means “rest” in Japanese), Jonathan hopes that Kyuukei will continue to provide a warm refuge for people to connect and recharge from the busyness of life. Find out more at kyuukeicoffee.com.--After pivoting from the biotech industry, Jonathan is now the proud owner and founder of Kyuukei Coffee.With his team, he has continued to grow the brand from a simple coffee cart in 2023 into fully-run cafes in Singapore at both Alexandra and Maxwell. Like its name (which means “rest” in Japanese), Jonathan hopes that Kyuukei will continue to provide a warm refuge for people to connect and recharge from the busyness of life. Find out more at kyuukeicoffee.com.

Is there ever a right time to pivot in your career? Do I have what it takes to be in the gig economy? What should we do to keep up with this fast-changing world? Hossan and Stanley talk to special guest, James Koh, about navigating the intricacies of mid-career switches.--About The GuestJames is a known talent scout in the advertising and marketing communications industry, and the top people know that he will find them a great job. Based in Singapore, he has successfully placed general managers, managing directors, creative directors, executive creative directors and strategic planning directors in multinational advertising agencies throughout Asia. Identifying leaders for the communications and branding industry is one of James’s passions. Outside of work, he enjoys time working out and if you are lucky you might bump into him as he races at Hyrox Taipei in April this year.His new book, Hire Power, is out now and available to purchase here and at major bookstores across Singapore. Find out more about James and his work at jameskennethkoh.com

Hossan and Stanley talk to Benjamin Lee about the importance of staying curious no matter how old you are, especially in a constantly changing world. --About the guestBenjamin Lee (also known as Mr Miyagi) is an instigator in brand storytelling and communications. He's the OG "content creator", scriptwriter and a curious person.Find out more about Ben here.

Save it! Bookmark it! Put it on your playlist! Get ready because brothers Hossan and Stanley are about to kick things off with The LeongForm, launching late March 2025.