What You'll Get From This Episode
In this transformative episode of the Man on a Mission Show, hosts Tammy Ng and Adeline Ng sit down with two pioneering entrepreneurs and AI educators, Sherry Jiang (Founder & CEO of Peek Money) and Agrim Singh (Co-founder of Niyam.AI), who are redefining what it means to build in the age of artificial intelligence. Fresh from hosting the world's largest Cursor hackathon where over 150 AI-powered products were built in just 24 hours, Sherry and Agrim pull back the curtain on how AI is democratizing entrepreneurship, transforming the future of work, and empowering non-technical founders to build sophisticated applications without writing a single line of traditional code.
You'll discover:
• Why the barrier between technical and non-technical founders has completely dissolved in the AI era
• How to communicate effectively with AI tools like Cursor to build production-ready applications
• The mindset shift from asking permission to asking forgiveness—and why high agency is the new currency
• Why learning to code backwards (build first, understand fundamentals later) is now more effective than traditional computer science education
• The real risks of building AI products too close to the model layer—and how to avoid getting replaced by OpenAI
• Why founder-market fit matters infinitely more than product-market fit in today's landscape
• How solo developers and small elite teams are now competing with multi-million dollar companies
• The future of work: which jobs will thrive, which will disappear, and why high agency beats credentials every time
• Why you don't need a CTO anymore to validate your startup idea (but when you might still want one)
• The surprising truth about AI replacing jobs: it's not replacing roles, it's replacing excuses
• How to build personal apps that solve your unique problems instead of conforming to one-size-fits-all SaaS solutions
• Why joy and curiosity—not hustle culture—are the real secrets to sustainable entrepreneurship
Whether you're a non-technical founder who's been told you need a CTO, an aspiring entrepreneur wondering if you should learn to code, or a business leader trying to understand how AI will reshape your industry, this episode will fundamentally change how you think about building in 2025 and beyond.
If this episode inspired you, don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon 🔔 for more conversations with builders who are redefining what's possible in the AI age.
👉 Share this episode with a founder who's been waiting for permission to start building.
👇 Your hosts:
Tammy Ng
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ngtammyyy/
🎬 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ngtammyyy
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ngtammyyy/
Adeline Ng
🌐 Website: https://adelineng.com/
📝Free Marketing Notes: https://linktr.ee/adeline.ng
📱Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ng.adelinee
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ade_ysc/
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ade-ng/
🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ng.ade
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What You'll Get From This Episode:
In this raw and unfiltered episode of the Man on a Mission Show, hosts Tammy Ng and Adeline Ng tackle one of the most critical questions every entrepreneur faces: Do you build a lifestyle business or do you build to exit? Drawing insights from their recent panel discussion featuring Annie Yap (CEO of AYP Group with IPO ambitions) and Patrick Chow (Co-founder of Adam Khoo Learning Technologies Group who works just one day a week), this candid conversation reveals the truth about business intent, founder identity, and the courage to choose your own path.
You'll discover:
• The fundamental difference between a lifestyle business and an exit-intent business—and why the starting point matters
• Why passion-driven businesses operate differently from market-demand-driven ventures
• How Annie's disciplined SOP-driven approach contrasts with Patrick's culture-first leadership style
• The real reason some founders pursue IPO while others choose freedom and flexibility
• Why changing your business direction every six months destroys team morale and trust
• How their own podcast business evolved from a client-filtering tool to a mission-driven platform
• The honest truth about making strategic decisions every 3-4 months vs. building for the long haul
• Why there's no "right" answer—only the answer that's right for you and your vision
• The danger of building someone else's dream instead of your own
Whether you're wrestling with the decision to scale aggressively, contemplating an exit, or simply trying to build a business that fits your life, this episode will help you gain clarity on what you're really building—and why it matters.
If this episode resonated with you, don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon 🔔 for more honest conversations about building businesses on your own terms.
👉 Share this episode with a founder who's struggling to define their business path.
👇 Your hosts:
Tammy Ng
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ngtammyyy/
🎬 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ngtammyyy
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ngtammyyy/
Adeline Ng
🌐 Website: https://adelineng.com/
📝Free Marketing Notes: https://linktr.ee/adeline.ng
📱Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ng.adelinee
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ade_ysc/
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ade-ng/
🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ng.ade
Follow Man on a Mission here:
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🏢 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/manonamissionshow
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What You'll Get From This Episode:
In this candid panel discussion from the Man on a Mission Show, two seasoned entrepreneurs and EOA coaches Annie Yap (CEO of a HR tech platform across 9 countries) and Patrick Chow (Co-founder of Adam Khoo Learning Technologies Group) pull back the curtain on what it really takes to build, scale, and sustain an SME in today's competitive landscape. From the critical difference between growth and scale to the art of retaining talent without breaking the bank, this conversation delivers hard-earned wisdom from leaders who've navigated the journey from startup to multi-million dollar operations.
You'll discover:
• The fundamental difference between building to sell vs. building a lifestyle business—and why clarity on this shapes everything
• Why growth at all costs is a dangerous myth that kills more businesses than it saves
• The real reason employees leave (hint: it's not about money) and how to create a culture they won't want to leave
• Patrick's secret to working one day a week while growing revenue 20% annually
• Annie's $1 million mistake that transformed how she approaches expansion
• The crocodile graph principle: why your revenue must grow faster than costs to truly scale
• How to compete with MNCs for talent when you can't match their salaries
• The surprising truth about fairness vs. high compensation in retention • Why empowerment beats micromanagement every single time
• The critical skills every SME leader needs to master in today's market
Whether you're wrestling with the decision to exit or stay, struggling to retain your best people, or trying to balance revenue growth with profitability, this episode delivers actionable insights from entrepreneurs who've been in the trenches and emerged victorious.
🕒 Timestamps
00:00 – Introduction: Two paths—lifestyle vs. exit strategy
02:30 – Patrick's 23-year journey with Adam Khoo Learning Technologies
04:00 – Annie's pivot from executive search to HR tech platform
06:00 – Growth vs. Scale: Understanding the crocodile graph
08:30 – Annie's $1 million lesson on growth at all costs
11:00 – Leadership development: The #1 priority for exit-ready companies
13:00 – Why Patrick keeps his business sellable even without planning to sell
15:00 – The truth about talent retention in SMEs
17:30 – People don't leave companies, they leave leaders
19:00 – Patrick's culture approach: Making the "sh*thole" as shallow as possible
22:00 – 50% staff retention for 10+ years: How Patrick did it
24:00 – The three E's: Empowerment, Engagement, Environment
26:30 – Fair compensation vs. high salary: What employees really want
28:00 – Employer branding: Your Glassdoor is your new resume
30:00 – Patrick's pub hiring strategy and 18-year employee retention
32:00 – Revenue vs. Profit: The eternal SME debate 34:00 – Annie's 3-month rule for expansion decisions
36:00 – Year 17 breakthrough: How digital transformation changed everything
38:00 – Essential skills for modern SME leaders
40:00 – Strategic thinking and empathy: The twin pillars of leadership
If this episode resonated with you, don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon 🔔 for more raw conversations with entrepreneurs who are redefining success on their own terms.
👉 Share this episode with an SME owner who needs to hear that there's more than one way to build a successful business.
👇 Your hosts:
Tammy Ng
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ngtammyyy/
🎬 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ngtammyyy
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ngtammyyy/
Adeline Ng 🌐 Website: https://adelineng.com/
📝Free Marketing Notes: https://linktr.ee/adeline.ng
📱Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ng.adelinee
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ade_ysc/
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ade-ng/
🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ng.ade
Patrick Cheo:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-cheo-a5212226/
https://www.instagram.com/patrickcheo/
https://www.akltg.com/
Annie Yap
https://www.linkedin.com/in/annie-yap/
https://www.instagram.com/annieyap555/
https://ayp-group.com/
EO: https://www.instagram.com/eosingapore/
linkedin.com/company/eo-singapore/
EOA: https://www.instagram.com/eoaccelerator/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/eo-accelerator-singapore/
Oasis:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/opportunityoasis/
Follow Man on a Mission here:
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What You'll Get From This Episode:
In this candid and unscripted episode of the Man on a Mission Show, hosts Tammy Ng and Adeline Ng pull back the curtain on their 18-month podcasting journey, sharing raw insights about building a media business while staying true to their mission. From their first awkward recordings to reaching out to Bill Gates, this behind-the-scenes conversation reveals what it really takes to create meaningful content in today's crowded digital landscape.
You'll discover:
• The real reason they started the podcast (hint: it wasn't for fame or fortune)
• How they filter for mission-driven entrepreneurs who actually walk the talk
• The internal struggle between monetization and maintaining authentic conversations
• Why they said no to easy money and chose to invest in quality over quantity
• The unexpected challenges of being a podcast host while staying present
• Their biggest rejections and the crazy ideas that didn't work out
• Why physical podcasts beat virtual ones every single time
• The shift from client filtering to helping audiences shortcut their way to success
• How business is an infinite game where persistence beats perfection
• The future direction of the show and what's coming for their audience If you're a content creator, entrepreneur, or anyone curious about the real work behind building an authentic media platform, this episode shows you the messy, honest truth about choosing mission over money.
🕒 Timestamps
00:00 – The journey begins: 18 months of podcasting
02:30 – Business as an infinite game: Why giving up means losing
04:15 – Favorite episodes revealed: From F&B insights to hair industry transformation
07:00 – The host vs. guest experience: Internal struggles and staying present
09:30 – The original mission: Using podcasts to filter for aligned clients
11:00 – The pivot: From monetization to investing in quality content
13:45 – Current struggles: Finding the right guests in a limited market
15:00 – The money conversation: Why they stopped monetizing episodes
17:00 – Crazy ideas that failed: Bill Gates, Cristiano Ronaldo, and drowning in inboxes
19:00 – Future direction: Helping audiences shortcut their path to success
20:30 – What's next: More unhinged content and behind-the-scenes access
If this episode resonated with you, don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon 🔔 for more honest conversations about building businesses with purpose.
👉 Share this episode with a creator who needs to hear that authenticity beats algorithms.
👇 Your hosts:
Tammy Ng
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ngtammyyy/
🎬 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ngtammyyy
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ngtammyyy/
Adeline Ng
🌐 Website: https://adelineng.com/
📝Free Marketing Notes: https://linktr.ee/adeline.ng
📱Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ng.adelinee
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ade_ysc/
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ade-ng/
🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ng.ade
Follow Man on a Mission here:
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🏢 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/manonamissionshow
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What You'll Get From This Episode:
In this powerful episode of the Man on a Mission Show, we sit down with Owen Chen, a fintech pioneer who made the extraordinary decision to invest his last $2 million into building a financial technology company that would transform banking across Southeast Asia. From selling ringtones to telcos to disrupting the traditional banking industry, Owen shares the raw, unfiltered truth about betting everything on a vision when everyone else thought he was crazy. This is a story of resilience, sacrifice, and why sometimes the biggest risks lead to the most meaningful rewards.
You'll discover:
• The moment that sparked his transition from a comfortable telco business to the uncharted waters of fintech
• Why he chose to spend his retirement fund on building a product banks said couldn't be done
• How he survived years without drawing a salary while supporting a team and family
• The breakthrough moment in Cambodia that changed everything after 9 months of working for free
• Why compliance, not coding, became his biggest learning curve in banking
• How staying positive during cash flow crises saved his business multiple times
• The mindset shift from "if I fail" to "I must finish what I started"
• Why value, not volume, is the key to surviving disruption in any industry If you're an entrepreneur facing doubt, struggling with cash flow, or wondering if your vision is worth the sacrifice, this episode will remind you why persistence and purpose always win.
🕒 Timestamps 00:00 – The $2 million decision that changed everything
02:00 – From network management to ringtone revolution
05:30 – The Chinese disruption that killed a 10-year business in 1 year
08:00 – The banking frustration that sparked a fintech vision
12:00 – Meeting the compliance wall: "Have you done this before?"
15:00 – Burning through $2 million in one year
18:30 – Working for free in Cambodia for 9 months
22:00 – The emotional toll of not drawing a salary for years
25:00 – "When you decide to be an entrepreneur, you cannot have doubt"
28:00 – Why positive thinking creates positive outcomes
31:00 – From first bank to 10 clients across Southeast Asia
34:00 – The $20 million Series A that changed the game
36:00 – Key lesson: "The moment you start, you must think of finishing"
If this episode inspired you, don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon 🔔 for more conversations with founders who are redefining what it means to build with purpose.
👉 Share this episode with an entrepreneur who needs to hear that their struggles are worth it.
👇 Your hosts:
Tammy Ng
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ngtammyyy/
🎬 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ngtammyyy
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ngtammyyy/
Adeline Ng
🌐 Website: https://adelineng.com/
📝Free Marketing Notes: https://linktr.ee/adeline.ng
📱Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ng.adelinee
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ade_ysc/
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ade-ng/
🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ng.ade
👇 Get to know our guest:
Owen Chen
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/owen-chen-970498155/
Neurogine n2Tap Social Media Accounts
📱Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/n2tapneurogine
📸 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/n2tapneurogine/
🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@n2tapneurogine
💼 LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/n2tapneurogine
Follow Man on a Mission here:
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What You’ll Get From This Episode:
In this insightful panel from the Man on a Mission Show, two dynamic entrepreneurs Sanee Yeo(CEO of Custom Made Costume & Merchandise) and Stefan Ye (Founder of Compass Events) share the real transition from being an operator to becoming a business owner.
Both leaders went from small teams to managing multi-million-dollar companies and hundreds of employees, but the road there wasn’t easy. From managing emotions, building the right team, firing without regret, to adopting AI in business, this episode dives deep into the leadership mindset needed to scale sustainably in today’s world.
You’ll discover:
What it really means to move from operator to owner
How to handle emotional burnout and identity shifts as a founder
The secret to hiring and leading the right team even when they can’t do it like you
Why clarity, not hustle, drives real business growth
How AI is reshaping leadership and why it’s not replacing jobs, it’s replacing excuses
The role of mentorship and community (EOA & EO) in achieving 4x business growth
If you’re an entrepreneur scaling your business or leading a growing team, this episode is your roadmap to evolving from doing it all to leading it well.
🕒 Timestamps
00:00 – Opening Quote: “If you want to go far, go together.”
00:20 – From Operator to Owner: The mindset shift
02:00 – Stefan’s story: From live bands to building a conference empire
03:45 – Managing emotions as a business owner
05:30 – Sunny’s turning point: “My clients wanted me cloned.”
06:20 – Realizing the need to build a team
07:00 – Identity shift: Letting go and trusting your team
09:00 – Controlled risk: Hiring, testing, and learning fast
10:30 – Flat vs hierarchical structure: Why speed matters more than size
12:20 – Managing emotions & delayed responses as a leader
14:30 – When is it too early to become an owner?
15:40 – Hiring generalists vs specialists in the age of AI
17:00 – Why attitude beats knowledge (DBS CEO quote)
18:00 – How Sunny and Stefan “vibe check” new hires
19:30 – Firing without backlash: How to end things well
21:00 – AI adoption: “AI doesn’t replace jobs, it replaces excuses.”
22:00 – Usain Bolt analogy: Why you can’t stand still in the AI era
23:30 – Using AI to do “stupid work” so humans can do smart work
24:45 – Key lesson: Why clarity is the real currency of growth
26:00 – Stefan’s mentorship story: From $400k to $1.8M revenue
28:00 – The 4 client categories that changed his business
29:30 – Closing message: “Cheap is never good, and good is never cheap.
If this episode inspired you, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon 🔔 for more conversations with leaders who are redefining success and scaling with purpose.
👉 Share this episode with a founder who’s learning to lead.
👇 Your hosts:
Tammy Ng
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ngtammyyy/
🎬 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ngtammyyy
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ngtammyyy/
Adeline Ng
🌐 Website: https://adelineng.com/
📝Free Marketing Notes: https://linktr.ee/adeline.ng
📱Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ng.adelinee
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ade_ysc/
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ade-ng/
🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ng.ade
Follow Man on a Mission here:
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What You’ll Get From This Episode:In Part 2 of our conversation with Ally Ng, second-generation leader of Tong Seng Produce and the household SongHe brand, we go deeper into the values, innovations, and vision that have kept this multi-generational business thriving.You’ll learn about:-The 5 key business principles Ally inherited from her father.-Why adaptability and humility matter in leadership.-The groundbreaking launch of SongHe Plus and its health benefits.-How a partnership with Alchemy FoodTech is reimagining rice for modern diets.-The inspiring Paper Crane Kindness Campaign that turned CSR into a long-term movement.Ally’s personal journey of growing into her leadership role and her vision for the future of SongHe.Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a legacy business owner, or someone passionate about values-driven innovation, this episode will challenge and inspire you.🕒 Timestamps00:00 – Principle #4: Why change is the only constant00:57 – Principle #5: Humility and stewardship in business05:01 – SongHe Plus: Reinventing rice for modern diets06:24 – Partnership with Alchemy FoodTech and its impact08:44 – Health benefits: Lower glycemic index, zinc, folate, fibre12:02 – Pricing, value, and supporting local innovation13:45 – Why innovation is critical, even for staples like rice18:12 – Paper Crane Kindness Campaign: 20 years of giving back22:49 – Why real CSR must be long-term, not just PR25:30 – Ally’s personal journey in the family business27:10 – The bigger vision: From rice brand to cultural lifestyle brand28:40 – Guest ritual: Defining meaning of life & a tough question for the next guestIf you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell 🔔 to stay updated on more powerful conversations with leaders on a mission.👉 Share this episode with someone who needs inspiration on building with legacy and integrity.👇 Your hosts:👩🏫 Tammy Ng📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ngtammyyy/🎬 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ngtammyyy💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ngtammyyy/🧠 Adeline Ng🌐 Website: https://adelineng.com/📝Free Marketing Notes: https://linktr.ee/adeline.ng📱Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ng.adelinee📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ade_ysc/💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ade-ng/🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ng.adeGet to know Ally Ng:💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/3-nm/📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/3.nm______/📷 Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/tongsengproduce/🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@3.nm______▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tongsengproduceFollow Man on a Mission here:🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@manonamissionshow?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/manonamissionshow/?hl=en🏢 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/manonamissionshow📌 Subscribe here:▶️ https://www.youtube.com/@ManOnAMissionShow#businesspodcast #podcast #ricebusiness #singapore #asia
In this inspiring episode of the Man on a Mission Show, we sit down with Ally Ng, second-generation leader of Tong Seng Produce and the household SongHe rice brand. From pioneering chilled rice warehouses to launching Singapore’s first enriched rice, Ally shares how a family business stays innovative, relevant, and true to its values in a rapidly changing market.
You’ll learn about:
- How SongHe became a trusted household name for over 30 years.
- The behind-the-scenes innovations (like chilled warehouses) that changed the rice industry.
- The family values and lessons passed down from Ally’s father that continue to shape the business.
- Why innovation, trust, and integrity are at the core of legacy businesses.
- The big vision: from Singapore importer to global rice exporter.
If you’re a business leader, entrepreneur, or simply love stories of legacy and innovation, this episode will show you what it means to stay true to your mission while growing for the future.
🕒 Timestamps
00:00 – Intro: Building a family business with no rulebook
00:37 – Welcoming our special guest: Ally Ng of SongHe
01:08 – The heritage and legacy of SongHe rice
02:06 – Pioneering Singapore’s first chilled warehouse for rice
07:32 – Launching Rice Bran Oil and the science of healthier cooking
10:33 – Rice as a cultural and emotional symbol of love
12:20 – The story behind SongHe Plus enriched rice
17:27 – Balancing innovation with tradition
20:49 – From Singapore importer to global rice exporter
26:27 – Competing with new brands and Taobao imports
29:18 – Lessons from Ally’s father on sincerity, trust & legacy
34:16 – Why starting from basics matters in leadership
38:06 – Speed, efficiency, and building campaigns under pressure
43:53 – Efficiency vs speed: lessons from magic & business
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell 🔔 to stay updated on more powerful conversations with leaders on a mission.
👉 Share this episode with someone who needs inspiration on building with legacy and integrity.
👇 Your hosts:
👩🏫 Tammy Ng
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ngtammyyy/
🎬 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ngtammyyy
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ngtammyyy/
🧠 Adeline Ng
🌐 Website: https://adelineng.com/
📝Free Marketing Notes: https://linktr.ee/adeline.ng
📱Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ng.adelinee
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ade_ysc/
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ade-ng/
🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ng.ade
Get to know Ally Ng:
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/3-nm/
📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/3.nm______/
📷 Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/tongsengproduce/
🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@3.nm______
▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tongsengproduce
Follow Man on a Mission here:
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In Part 2 of our conversation with Lee Hao Ming, CEO of LOUKEN Group, we go deep into venture building, brand stewardship, and human-first business.Hao Ming reveals how LOKAN’s unique flywheel model combines consultancy, creative capital, and relationship capital to grow sustainable businesses. He also opens up about his ADHD diagnosis, the challenges of being neurodivergent, and why his ultimate pursuit is freedom.If you’re a founder, leader, or aspiring entrepreneur, this episode will reshape how you view success, purpose, and what it takes to build businesses that last.What You’ll Get From This Episode:-How LOKAN evolved from consultancy to venture builder over 25 years-The flywheel model: consultancy, equity partnerships & scaling ventures-Why branding is not cosmetic but the foundation of business longevity-The five pillars of sustainable ventures (economic, social, environmental, brand/culture, operational)-Investing in the wellbeing economy: agriculture, biotech, functional food & more-Hao Ming’s personal story of being diagnosed with ADHD and turning it into a strength-Why true success = freedom, not just money or titles⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Introduction to Part 2: Deep dive into LOKAN01:04 – LOKAN’s 25-year journey from consultancy to venture builder03:24 – Success stories: Charles & Keith, Paradise Group, Hegen05:08 – Why LOKAN invests with financial, creative & relationship capital07:34 – The flywheel model explained11:15 – Venture builder vs venture capital: what makes LOKAN different13:23 – Branding as foundation, not cosmetics16:28 – Why raising funds without clarity leads to failure17:56 – The five sustainability pillars of venture building25:12 – “Human first” investing and the wellbeing economy27:46 – Bridging the gap: from science & agriculture to consumer products31:16 – Case study: oat-based startup supporting PWD & SEN interns32:50 – Hao Ming’s ADHD diagnosis and journey as a neurodivergent entrepreneur37:00 – Coping with ADHD: turning hyperfocus into a superpower40:00 – The hidden struggles of neurodivergent leaders42:11 – Hao Ming’s ultimate purpose: seeking freedom43:24 – Closing thoughts and question for the next guest👇 Your hosts:👩🏫 Tammy Ng📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ngtammyyy/🎬 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ngtammyyy💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ngtammyyy/🧠 Adeline Ng🌐 Website: https://adelineng.com/📝Free Marketing Notes: https://linktr.ee/adeline.ng📱Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ng.adelinee📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ade_ysc/💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ade-ng/🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ng.adeGet to know Lee Hao Ming:💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haominglee/📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_xiaominggg/?igsh=MTR3dXVrMnQ0aGo2bQ%3D%3D#📷 Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/loukengroup?igsh=MzNkZ2FzZTF4eXo=🎥 TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@_xiaominggg?_t=ZS-8yERsy1fn04&_r=1Follow Man on a Mission here:🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@manonamissionshow?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/manonamissionshow/?hl=en🏢 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/manonamissionshow📌 Subscribe here:▶️ https://www.youtube.com/@ManOnAMissionShow
Entrepreneurship Isn’t Bali Beaches & Laptops ☕
In this episode of Man on a Mission Show, we sit down with Lee Hao Ming — the visionary behind Artbox Singapore, scaling House Coffee during the pandemic, and now CEO of Louken Group.
He opens up about the raw truth of entrepreneurship: the sleepless nights, public scrutiny, mental health struggles, and why money is never the ultimate goal. Instead, Hao Ming shares what makes the fight worth it — purpose, people, and possibilities.
If you’ve ever thought of becoming an entrepreneur, this episode will give you the real, unfiltered side of the journey.
What You’ll Get From This Episode
- Why entrepreneurship is not for everyone (and that’s okay)
- The behind-the-scenes story of bringing Artbox to Singapore and attracting 700,000 visitors
- The leap of faith mindset every entrepreneur needs to succeed
- How to cope with public scrutiny, burnout, and anxiety as a founder
- Hao Ming’s definition of true success (spoiler: it’s not money, it’s freedom)
- The importance of rest, discipline, and perspective for long-term survival
⏱️ Timestamps
00:00 – The harsh truth about entrepreneurship
00:33 – Introducing Lee Hao Ming
01:05 – From Artbox to House Coffee to Louken
02:31 – The “man bun” origin story
05:00 – Taking the leap of faith with Artbox
09:56 – Facing doubt, rainstorms & 700,000 visitors
12:12 – Why young entrepreneurs succeed (foolish courage)
15:00 – Learning from failure & why trying = winning
17:56 – Success, responsibility & the pressure to scale
22:00 – Coping with public scrutiny & mental health
25:41 – Building routines & the “discipline to rest”
29:30 – Mindset shift: life is tough by default
31:00 – Why entrepreneurship is not for everyone
34:57 – The insane metaphor of running a business
36:15 – The dark side: suicide, burnout & sacrifices
38:36 – What makes it worth it for Hao Ming
41:26 – Money as a concept & tool for possibilities
45:00 – What success really means (freedom & stewardship)
49:37 – Closing thoughts: entrepreneurship as stewardship
👇 Your hosts:
👩🏫 Tammy Ng
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ngtammyyy/
🎬 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ngtammyyy
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ngtammyyy/
🧠 Adeline Ng
🌐 Website: https://adelineng.com/
📝Free Marketing Notes: https://linktr.ee/adeline.ng
📱Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ng.adelinee
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ade_ysc/
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ade-ng/
🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ng.ade
Get to know Lee Hao Ming:
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haominglee/
📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_xiaominggg/?igsh=MTR3dXVrMnQ0aGo2bQ%3D%3D#
📷 Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/loukengroup?igsh=MzNkZ2FzZTF4eXo=
🎥 TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@_xiaominggg?_t=ZS-8yERsy1fn04&_r=1
Follow Man on a Mission here:
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🏢 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/manonamissionshow
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Was it worth leaving his old life, risking it all, and bleeding cash to start a gym franchise in Singapore?In this episode, Noah Oberman reveals the raw truth about expanding overseas, navigating foreign markets, and why every big win starts with calculated risk.He explains:Why Expanding to Indonesia Can Be a High-Risk, High-Reward GambleThe #1 Mistake Tech Founders Make (And How to Avoid Burning Cash)How Snap Fitness Competes Against Giants in the MarketWhy Location Is 95% of Gym Success (and People Make the Rest)Why Running a Gym Means Bleeding Cash…for 6 to 9 MonthsTimestamps:0:00 – Moving from New York to Jakarta: Career vs. Love4:27 – Business Culture Shock: The “Right Way” vs. The Indonesian Way8:42 – Lessons from Shutting Down a Tech Startup12:12 – From Effort to Outcomes: Using OKRs & Standups Effectively14:31 – Mastering the 3-Step Hiring Process17:23 – Why AI Could Supercharge SMEs18:09 – Why I Wouldn’t Re-enter Indonesia Without a Local Partner20:34 – The Risk-Reward Reality of Doing Business in Indonesia22:33 – Finding the Right Partner is the Key to International Expansion23:12 – Malaysia as the Next Growth Market25:16 – Competing With 100+ Gyms: David vs. Goliath in Fitness28:31 – Customer Service as the Core of Gym Success30:12 – What Gyms Can Learn From Singapore Airlines32:42 – Skyrocketing Rental Rates and Their Impact on Business34:54 – Why Franchisees Need More Capital Than They Think36:37 – Understanding Franchise Risk, Returns & Liquidity38:47 – How Gym Profitability Works: 20–25K Free Cash Flow per Month40:21 – What Makes a Great Gym Franchise Owner👇 Your hosts:👩🏫 Tammy Ng📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ngtammyyy/🎬 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ngtammyyy💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ngtammyyy/🧠 Adeline Ng🌐 Website: https://adelineng.com/📝Free Marketing Notes: https://linktr.ee/adeline.ng📱Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ng.adelinee📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ade_ysc/💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ade-ng/🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ng.ade🚀 Get to know our Guest:💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/noah-oberman-16847655/📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/its_noahoberman/🎥TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@itsnoahoberman🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NoahOberman🔔 Don’t miss a beat:🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@manonamissionshow?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/manonamissionshow/?hl=en🏢 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/manonamissionshow📌 Subscribe here:▶️ https://www.youtube.com/@ManOnAMissionShow📲 We’re everywhere: Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | TikTok@manonamissionshow👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if you found this episode inspiring!#podcast #gymbusiness #fitnessmotivation #fitnessjourney #fitnessinspiration #fitnessindustry #businesspodcast #founder #healthandwellness
Is starting a gym franchise in Singapore a terrible idea? In this episode, FitVentures co-founder Noah Oberman shares all about bringing a gym franchise to Singapore…even when everyone told him not to.In Q1 2025 alone, he opened four new locations — and in just two years, crossed the $1M revenue mark.He explains:1. Why They Entered a “Saturated” Gym Market—and Won2. Franchise vs Corporate Gyms: The Big Differences No One Talks About3. The 3 Problems They Saw in the Biggest Franchise (And How They Solved Them)4. Hyrox: How the Event is Changing the Fitness Industry5. The Leadership Framework That Keeps Their Gyms GrowingThis is a story about betting on yourself, building a brand people actually want, and proving the industry wrong.Timestamps:00:00 – Fighting giants in a “saturated” market00:51 – From 4 gyms to 9 in just 6 months03:07 – Corporate vs franchise gym models explained07:12 – Why picking the right franchisees is key to success08:39 – Spotting “brand fatigue” in a crowded market09:59 – The 3 problems with Anytime Fitness14:47 – Why they limit franchisees to 3–5 locations16:14 – Introducing the “Bobbit” leadership framework17:28 – Why ongoing training matters more than onboarding18:32 – Hyrox: Fitness trend or lasting change?22:47 – Is Hyrox a revenue booster or a marketing tool?24:01 – The importance of self-renewal for leaders25:00 – Our 9 gym locations in Singapore25:44 – Hyrox’ positive impact on the entire gym industry👇 Your hosts:👩🏫 Tammy Ng📸 Instagram: / ngtammyyy 🎬 TikTok: / ngtammyyy 💼 LinkedIn: / ngtammyyy 🧠 Adeline Ng🌐 Website: https://adelineng.com/📝Free Marketing Notes: https://linktr.ee/adeline.ng📱Facebook / ng.adelinee 📸 Instagram: / ade_ysc 💼 LinkedIn: / ade-ng 🎥 TikTok: / ng.ade 🚀 Get to know our Guest:💼 LinkedIn: / noah-oberman-16847655 📷 Instagram: / its_noahoberman 🎥TikTok: / itsnoahoberman 🎥 YouTube: / @noahoberman 🔔 Don’t miss a beat:🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@manonamission...📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/manonamissi...🏢 LinkedIn: / manonamissionshow 📌 Subscribe here:▶️ / @manonamissionshow 📲 We’re everywhere: Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | TikTok@manonamissionshow👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if you found this episode inspiring!#podcast #gymbusiness #fitnessmotivation #fitnessjourney #fitnessinspiration #fitnessindustry #businesspodcast #founder #healthandwellness
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What does it really mean to grow a business?
Is it about scaling? Expanding? Pivoting?
In this episode, we sit down with Vernon Lim—founder of The Business Community and a seasoned growth advisor to SMEs across Singapore—to unpack what most business owners get wrong about growth.
It’s not just strategy. It’s self-awareness.Because sometimes, the real bottleneck isn’t the market—it’s you.
Your Takeaways:
🔍 The difference between growth, scale, and pivot—and why it matters💡 How a piano school owner faced a $500k decision🚀 Stories of SMEs turning fertiliser IP into regional success🤖 How traditional services are quietly transformed by AI🧭 A simple framework to navigate rising costs and shrinking margins
This one’s for the SME founder, the scrappy builder, the operator trying to make sense of a shifting economy.
It’s not just about growing.It’s about growing right.
🎧 Tap play. Send it to someone trying to figure out what’s next for their business.
Timestamps:
00:00 Understanding Business Growth and Scaling
03:43 Pivot vs. Total Change Explained
09:14 Leverage Core Competencies for Growth
11:21 Post-War U.S. Manufacturing Shift
15:39 Singapore Flower Nursery Business
17:58 Singapore Fertiliser Export Expansion
21:55 Scalable Mass Hiring Strategies
22:45 AI Replaces Marketing Consultants
Eager to grab the mic and be a speaker on Man on a Mission Show?
Follow our Host Tammy Ng 👇
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ngtammyyy/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ngtammyyy
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ngtammyyy/
Follow our Host Adeline Ng 👇
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ade_ysc/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ade-ng/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ng.ade?lang=en
Get to know more about our guest speaker’s business!
Follow our Guest Vernon Lim 👇
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vernonmonarchadv/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatsvernon/
Website: https://monarchadvisory.co
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What happens after the big exit?
The money hits. The dream’s real.
But then… what?
Joshua Chan built Ergotunes and Everdesk into multimillion-dollar brands.
Then he sold them.
And everything changed.
This one’s about identity, money, and meaning—when the hustle ends and the silence kicks in.
Your Takeaways:
What no one tells you about life after a big payday
Why becoming an ‘overnight millionaire’ isn’t what it seems
The real cost of chasing success without intentionality
How Joshua is building again—with purpose, not pressure
His take on community, customer obsession, and creating brands that last
It’s not just about how to exit.
It’s about how to live after you do.
🎧 Tap play. Copy the link. Send it to someone who’s building a business they’ll be proud of.
After a $12M exit, ErgoTune’s founder Joshua Chan faced a challenge few talk about—losing his sense of identity beyond the "founder grind."
In this episode, we unpack what really happens after you exit: the emotional void, shifting purpose, and the truth about rebuilding when the hustle isn’t for survival anymore.
Founder Takeaways:
– How to prepare for the emotional crash post-exit
– Why purpose must replace panic in your next chapter
– What smart, sustainable risk-taking actually looks like
– Who really thrives in startups—and it’s not about personality
– Where to focus: customer acquisition over everything else
An exit isn’t the finish line—it’s just a new kind of challenge.
Interested in founder/CEO talks? Check out Man on a Mission Show.
Most Singapore SMEs here are sitting on untapped advantages—and don’t even realise it.
This isn’t just about growth hacks or marketing trends. It’s about knowing how Singapore really works, what gives us our edge, and how you can use that to build a stronger, smarter business.
🔑 Beneficial Pointers You’ll Walk Away With:
Redefining your business model to stay relevant in changing markets
Building communities and loyal customers—not just sales
Using Singapore’s credibility as a strategic advantage
Focusing on long-term value creation instead of short-term wins
If you're serious about long-term business in Singapore, this is worth 30 minutes of your time. ▶️ Watch the video now and start using what you already have—but better.
Escalating tariffs are putting pressure on already-thin margins — and SMEs sticking to traditional models are feeling the squeeze.
In this On the Ground episode, we sit down with business community founder & brand strategist Vernon to talk about what separates the businesses that adapt… from the ones that get left behind.
💬 Here’s what we explore:
Why cost-cutting alone won’t save your business
The strategies agile SMEs are using to pivot and thrive
How Singapore’s unique position in the region can be a strength
What mindset shifts leaders must make to stay competitive
Practical frameworks to turn pressure into progress
If you're leading an SME in Singapore, this episode isn’t just insight — it’s a strategic gut-check.
Because resilience now isn’t optional. It’s survival.
The US has rolled out a new wave of tariffs — not just on China, but also Vietnam, Canada… and even Singapore.
While headlines focus on geopolitics, the real question for local business owners is: what does this mean for us?
In this On the Ground episode, we speak with Ang Yuit, President of the Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (ASME), to unpack what these tariffs could mean for Singapore’s economy — especially for SMEs.
💬 Inside the episode:
Trade tensions may be global, but their impact is local. This episode is about staying informed, staying sharp — and staying ready.
Is your business actually profitable — or just surviving on momentum?
In this episode, we sit down with Joewin Tan, a seasoned entrepreneur who’s seen both growth and near-collapse, to talk about the quieter side of business failure: cash management.
Most businesses don’t go under because of bad ideas. They fail because they run out of cash — or manage it poorly. Joewin shares what business owners often overlook when things feel like they’re “going well,” and why those blind spots can become the cracks that sink the ship.
We talk through:
The real reason cash flow issues keep showing up (it’s not just sales)
Why borrowing to “buy time” is riskier than it looks
How small expenses become big threats when ignored
The mindset shift required to run a financially sound business — not just a busy one
If you’re growing, scaling, or just trying to stay afloat — this conversation is a must-listen. Sometimes, the biggest risks are the ones you don’t see until it’s too late.
Do you know how much cash your business needs to survive a crisis?
Half of all businesses barely have 15 days of cash reserves—and if a crisis hits, many won’t make it. Would yours?
In this episode of Man on a Mission, we sat down with Joewin, a seasoned entrepreneur who’s an expert in financial literacy for businesses. She broke down the hard truths about money management that every business owner needs to hear.
💡 Here’s what you’ll take away from this episode:
🔹 Your personal and business finances are more connected than you think. If your personal financial habits are shaky, your business cash flow might be too.
🔹 Cash flow is king. If you don’t have at least three months’ worth of expenses saved, you’re walking a financial tightrope.
🔹 Loans are a tool, not a crutch. Borrowing money should fuel growth, not just help you survive another month.
Joewin shares insights that could help you turn your numbers into smart, strategic decisions—because when you understand your finances, you control your business’s future.
Is your business built to last? Tune in now.