Episodes

  • How Ayao Komatsu Defied the Odds to Lead Haas F1 | Ayao Komatsu, Haas F1 Team | Tank Talks Asia

    How Ayao Komatsu Defied the Odds to Lead Haas F1 | Ayao Komatsu, Haas F1 Team | Tank Talks Asia
    Oct 9 2026
    In this special episode of Tank Talks Asia, recorded at the Milken Asia Summit, Manisha speaks to Ayao Komatsu, Team Principal of Haas F1 Team, ahead of the Singapore Grand Prix.From his journey from Japan to Formula 1, to building a high-performing team, embracing AI and creating more opportunities for young people in Asia, Ayao shares the experiences and lessons that have shaped his career.Featured Voices Hosts: Manisha TankGuest: Ayao Komatsu, Team Principal, Haas F1 TeamKey takeawaysAyao explains why he believes a transparent, no-blame culture is essential to learning from mistakes and improving performance.He shares how his journey from Japan into Formula 1 was driven by curiosity and passion.He argues that creating more opportunities at grassroots level, rather than simply investing in infrastructure, is key to developing the next generation of Asian motorsport talent.Ayao believes AI presents a major opportunity for smaller F1 teams, helping them to make better use of vast amounts of data.His advice to young people is not to be afraid of taking the first step.Chapter heads02:41Learning From MistakesAyao explains Haas's transparent, no-blame approach to setbacks, focusing on understanding what went wrong and improving the process rather than dwelling on individual mistakes.05:15Inside the Singapore Grand PrixHe describes the unique atmosphere of Singapore's night race, while explaining why the pressure and need for consistent performance remain the same wherever the F1 calendar takes the team.06:08The Fans Behind the FormulaFrom the huge crowds at Silverstone to Japanese fans creating bespoke gifts for every team member, Ayao reflects on the different ways F1 fans around the world connect with the sport.08:44From Japan to Formula 1Ayao says that watching F1 as a teenager inspired him to leave Japan, learn English and pursue an education in the UK with the ultimate goal of working in motorsport.13:50From Engineer to Team PrincipalHe explains how moving into the Team Principal role transformed his responsibilities from engineering to running an entire organisation, encompassing business, people, legal and financial considerations.15:50Just Take the First StepAyao offers advice to young people who want to work in F1, arguing that ambitious goals become achievable when you just focus on the next step.17:30Building a Future for Asian MotorsportHe discusses the importance of grassroots opportunities, celebrating differences and giving more young people the chance to discover their potential in motorsport.20:16AI and the Human AdvantageAyao explains why AI could be particularly valuable to a smaller F1 team like Haas, helping analyze huge volumes of data and freeing people to spend more time on the work only humans can do.22:53The Power of Different PerspectivesHe argues that embracing different cultures, ideas and perspectives can make us more resilient, creative and better equipped for an uncertain world.Useful links https://www.haasf1team.com/https://www.formula1.com/en/racing/2026/singaporehttps://gpbeat.com/article/3d4bd354-ffd6-46fc-a87e-0d89eb566238?lang=en&discipline=f1https://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/automotive-engineering-beng/https://www.lboro.ac.uk/alumni/news/2024/may/ayao-komatsu-haas-team-principal/https://www.racefans.net/rio-haryanto/https://www.haasf1team.com/partners/toyota-gazoo-racinghttps://www.stemracing.com/https://milkeninstitute.org/events/asia-summit-2026Official Hub: Haas F1 Team LinktreeX (formerly Twitter): @HaasF1Team on XInstagram: @haasf1team on InstagramTikTok: @haasf1official on TikTokFacebook: TGR Haas F1 Team on FacebookThreads: @haasf1team on ThreadsWebsite: haasf1team.com [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7]🏁 2026 Race DriversEsteban OconX (formerly Twitter): @OconEsteban on XInstagram: @estebanocon on InstagramTikTok: @estebanocon on TikTokFacebook: Esteban Ocon Official on Facebook [1]Oliver BearmanX (formerly Twitter): @OllieBearman on XInstagram: @olliebearman on InstagramTikTok: @olliebearman on TikTokFacebook: Oliver Bearman on Facebook [1, 2]Don’t miss outWe’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email:tanktalksasia@asiaworks.comAnd don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia.Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.
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    27 mins
  • How Creators Turn Content Into Business (and Why Most Fail) | Jasper Donat | Tank Talks Asia

    How Creators Turn Content Into Business (and Why Most Fail) | Jasper Donat | Tank Talks Asia
    Sep 28 2026
    In this episode of Tank Talks Asia, Manisha talks to Jasper Donat, co-founder of Branded and creator of All That Matters, to break down the business side of the creator economy.From running Music Matters Academies to helping independent artists work with global brands, Jasper shares what it really takes to scale your creative craft into a commercial business.Featured Voices Hosts: Manisha Tank Guest: Jasper Donat, CEO and Co-Founder, BrandedKey takeawaysJasper explains why creators need to think of themselves as businesses, with a clear plan of where they want to go and how they intend to get there.He discusses the mental health pressures facing creators, particularly the difficulty of separating personal rejection from professional rejection.Jasper argues that authenticity is fundamental to successful creator-brand partnerships.He highlights the power of collaboration, particularly across cultures, and shares examples of creators working together to reach new audiences.His advice to aspiring creators is do what you love, never give up and never stop selling.Chapter heads01:13Culture is CommerceJasper explains why music, sport, gaming, creators and marketing are increasingly converging, and previews the thinking behind this year's Music Matters programme.03:01Why Most Creators Don’t Have a Business PlanHe says the Music Matters Academy helps musicians understand the business side of their careers, from setting goals to working with platforms, brands, publishers and lawyers.04:33Learning From People Who Have Made ItJasper describes how candid conversations with industry leaders give emerging creators access to advice, mistakes and experiences they would rarely encounter elsewhere.07:51Managing Mental Health and Handling RejectionThe conversation turns to the unique pressures of being your own boss and putting deeply personal creative work into the public domain.10:27Luck, Money and the Power of CollaborationJasper considers how creators break through, why luck can play a role, and how collaborations can help artists reach new audiences across borders.13:03Authenticity vs. Brand DealsJasper shares an example of a creator who turned down a lucrative brand deal, illustrating why trust with an audience can be more valuable than a single payday.15:38Finding Your AudienceFrom micro-influencers to creators with millions of followers, Jasper explains why the value of an audience depends on who is actually listening, watching and engaging.17:28The Golden Rule: Never Stop SellingJasper offers his three pieces of advice for aspiring music creators: do what you love, never give up and never stop selling!20:06It's About the FanDrawing on his experience with YouTube FanFest and creators around the world, Jasper explains why successful creators put their relationship with their audience at the heart of what they do.Useful links https://sg.linkedin.com/in/jasperdonathttps://www.branded.live/allthatmattershttps://www.branded.live/music-mattershttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kqU1jW85jG8https://www.branded.live/youth-music-matters-2025Don’t miss outWe’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email:tanktalksasia@asiaworks.comAnd don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia. Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.
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    24 mins
  • Bigger than AI: The #1 Threat Bosses Face in 2026 | Maha El Dimachki, GFTN | Talk Talks Asia

    Bigger than AI: The #1 Threat Bosses Face in 2026 | Maha El Dimachki, GFTN | Talk Talks Asia
    Sep 11 2026
    In this episode of Tank Talks Asia, Manisha talks to Maha El Dimachki, CEO of Solutions at the Global Finance and Technology Network (GFTN), to unpack the future of global fintech.Maha also shares her insider’s view on how technology is reshaping global finance and economic access, and what she believes the future holds for jobs in an increasingly automated world.Featured Voices Hosts: Manisha TankGuests: Maha El Dimachki, CEO of Solutions, Global Finance and Technology Network (GFTN)Key takeawaysMaha explains why she believes fintech is capable of solving practical problems in areas such as agriculture, healthcare and access to credit.She says technologies including AI, blockchain, tokenisation and open finance could expand access to financial products and make them more affordable.Maha talks about how regulators need to strike a balance between allowing innovation to develop, while also staying close enough to emerging technologies to understand and manage the risks.She argues that companies need to develop “AI fluency” and understand how AI is being deployed.Maha believes Asia's biggest challenge is creating jobs for a growing population of young people, and is hopeful that collaboration between governments, businesses and organisations can help address it.Chapter heads01:25The Future of Financial ServicesMaha explains what she does at GFTN Solutions and why creating jobs, developing skills and building supportive ecosystems are at the heart of her work.02:27From Sydney to London to SingaporeShe reflects on more than 25 years in finance, talking about the experiences that shaped her career, including her time at the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority.03:59Making Finance Work in the BackgroundMaha and Manisha discuss how technology has transformed everyday banking and how financial innovation can connect technology with practical challenges in areas such as farming, healthcare and financial inclusion.07:00The Technologies That Could Change FinanceFrom blockchain and tokenisation to AI and open finance, Maha looks at the technologies she believes could unlock new opportunities and make financial services more accessible.08:47How Should Regulators Respond?Maha explains the balancing act regulators face as technologies such as AI and quantum computing develop at unprecedented speed.10:49Why Businesses Need AI FluencyShe argues that companies need to understand the risks and implications of AI for themselves, with boards playing a central role in deciding how the technology should be deployed.12:27Can Regulation Be a Friend?Maha challenges the idea that regulators are simply there to get in the way, arguing that startups and scale-ups can use regulation to build stronger, more trusted businesses.14:29Cutting Through the Fintech JargonThe conversation turns to acronyms, jargon and the importance of explaining financial technology in terms that everyone can understand.17:47Payments, Geopolitics and SovereigntyMaha traces the evolution of payments from traditional banking to neobanks and digital wallets, and explains why geopolitical shifts are making homegrown payment systems and financial sovereignty increasingly important.20:11The Five RewiringsMaha previews the themes shaping this year’s Singapore FinTech Festival, from technology and geopolitics to talent, policy and capital, before returning to the question of how Asia can create jobs for its youth.Useful links https://gftn.co/press/gftn-strengthens-global-leadership-team-with-anthony-thomas-as-chief-strategy-growth-officer-and-maha-el-dimachki-as-ceo-of-gftn-advisoryhttps://www.linkedin.com/pulse/taking-insights-action-practical-approach-necxc?trk=public_post_feed-article-contenthttps://www.deloitte.com/uk/en/Industries/financial-services/perspectives/fintech-glossary.htmlhttps://www.bankofengland.co.uk/explainers/what-is-a-central-bank-digital-currencyhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3u1lIKhHhZQhttps://www.fintechfestival.sg/Don’t miss outWe’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email:tanktalksasia@asiaworks.comAnd don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia.Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.
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    25 mins
  • Are Insects the Future of Protein? | Christina Rasmussen & Sasha Wijidessa, Fura | Tank Talks Asia

    Are Insects the Future of Protein? | Christina Rasmussen & Sasha Wijidessa, Fura | Tank Talks Asia
    Aug 27 2026
    In this episode of Tank Talks Asia, Manisha talks to Christina Rasmussen and Sasha Wijidessa, the co-founders of award-winning Singaporean bar FURA, which serves up innovations such as mealworm margaritas and cultured Japanese quail.The duo explain the thinking behind their unconventional approach to food and drink, discuss what they mean by “collaborative survival” and explain why they want people to rethink the way we eat and drink.Featured Voices Hosts: Manisha Tank Guests: Christina Rasmussen, Co-owner and Head Chef, FURA and Sasha Wijidessa, Co-owner and Head Bartender, FURAKey takeawaysChristina and Sasha say FURA is about creating a new way of eating and drinking that challenges the generational habits shaping the way we consume.They explain how they build their menus on ingredients that are abundant or readily available, working directly with producers and farms where possible.Christina believes her experience as a forager at Noma transformed her understanding of where food comes from and has given her an increased respect for ingredients.The pair say FURA’s use of insects and cultured meat isn’t a gimmick and is a way to introduce people to alternative sources of protein.Christina and Sasha believe meaningful change begins with small, individual choices.Chapter heads01:03The Story Behind FURAChristina and Sasha reflect on the very different paths that took them to Copenhagen, where they began the journey that would eventually lead to them establishing FURA in Singapore.03:31From Mushrooms to “Collaborative Survival”Sasha reveals how the book The Mushroom at the End of the World helped inspire FURA's name, philosophy and focus on the idea of collaborative survival.07:44Cooking With What’s in AbundanceChristina breaks down how the restaurant chooses ingredients that are abundant, invasive or prevalent, and how those principles shape its dishes.10:01What a Forager Really DoesChristina looks back at her time at Noma and explains how getting out into the field transformed her understanding of food and waste.13:45Why Insects Are on the MenuFrom mealworm margaritas to jellyfish martinis, Sasha and Christina explain their thinking behind using insects as an alternative source of protein and why they don't want them to be treated as a gimmick.19:58Is Asia the Next Food Frontier?Christina reflects on how Asian food, culture and techniques are increasingly shaping global cuisine, and why Singapore’s mix of influences makes it a natural hub for food innovation.20:48The Personal Cost of Choosing an Unconventional PathSasha recalls the difficult conversations with her parents about working in hospitality, while Christina reflects on unexpectedly becoming a business owner.23:16Small Changes, Big ImpactChristina and Sasha call for more conscious choices, arguing that small changes in how we eat and consume can help make sustainable habits part of everyday life.24:18An Unusual GiftThe pair reveal what’s inside the jar they brought for the TTA shelves and, unsurprisingly, it has something to do with insects.25:56The Long Road to Insect ApprovalThey reflect on the lengthy process of getting insect-based dishes approved for human consumption and how they had to navigate strict safety regulations before finally receiving the green light.Useful links https://www.fura.space/menuhttps://www.theworlds50best.com/discovery/Establishments/Singapore/Singapore/Fura.htmlhttps://www.straitstimes.com/life/food/mealworm-margaritas-jellyfish-martinis-at-new-eco-conscious-bar-furahttps://greenloopfarms.com/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Mushroom_at_the_End_of_the_Worldhttps://www.sfa.gov.sg/regulatory-standards-frameworks-guidelines/insect-regulatory-framework/insect-regulatory-frameworkhttps://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/jul/10/singapore-approves-insects-eat-foodhttps://nomaprojects.com/blogs/journal/stepping-into-nature?srsltid=AfmBOor6XyjpTJlxR46ew5cJip1YeM70YVrV408zE4wKqlwOoI5i9s07https://www.instagram.com/fura.sgDon’t miss outWe’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email:tanktalksasia@asiaworks.comAnd don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia. Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.
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    29 mins
  • GUT Feeling: 25Mins of Health, with Microbiologist Germaine Yong | Tank Talks Asia

    GUT Feeling: 25Mins of Health, with Microbiologist Germaine Yong | Tank Talks Asia
    Aug 12 2026
    In this episode of Tank Talks Asia, Manisha talks to Germaine Yong, who’s a senior scientist at A*STAR’s Singapore Institute of Food and Biotechnology Innovation. She talks about the trillions of microbes living on our bodies and explains how what we eat can shape our gut health. From antibiotics and allergies, to hawker center food and plant-based chicken nuggets, Germaine shares some fascinating discoveries from her research.Featured Voices Hosts: Manisha Tank Guest: Germaine Yong, Senior Scientist, A*STAR Singapore Institute of Food and Biotechnology Innovation (SIFBI)Key takeawaysGermaine explains why the microbiome is far bigger than the gut, with microbes living across our body and playing important roles in keeping us healthy.She argues that excessive use of antibiotics, disinfectants and antiseptics can disrupt our microbial environment and contribute to antimicrobial resistance.She says Asian microbiomes can differ from those in the West, with fermented foods and rice-based diets among the factors that may shape the microbes living in our guts.Her research suggests that diet can change the gut microbiome remarkably quickly, with an all-hawker center diet reducing levels of beneficial bifidobacteria within just two to three days.Germaine believes greater diversity in the plants we eat could be an important part of supporting gut health, and her research into plant-based foods suggests they may offer benefits for the gut microbiome.Chapter heads02:10From Toothpicks to the MicrobiomeGermaine recalls the childhood science experiment that first sparked her fascination with the microscopic world inside and around us.03:35The Poo WhispererShe explains what the microbiome actually is, why the gut contains so many microbes, and how stool samples can reveal clues about what's happening inside the body.04:47Are We Too Clean?Germaine explores the unintended consequences of excessive use of antibiotics, disinfectants and antibacterial products, and explains why viruses don't respond to antibiotics.07:03Good Health Starts With Gut HealthShe explains how the gut microbiome can influence health far beyond digestion, including areas such as cognitive health, sleep and menopause.09:08Why Asian Guts Are DifferentGermaine looks at how diet, lifestyle and genetics shape microbiomes across populations, and why Asian guts can differ from those in the West.11:10The Allergy and Intolerance QuestionShe breaks down the difference between food allergies and intolerances, while sharing her own surprising experience of discovering she is intolerant to gluten.15:15What Is Hawker Food Doing to Your Gut?Germaine reveals what happened when researchers studied the impact of a typical Singapore hawker-center diet on the gut microbiome.16:56The Case for More Plant DiversityShe explains why gut health may depend not just on eating enough fiber, but on eating a wider breadth of plant-based foods.18:01Project NuggetGermaine reveals the surprising results of her research comparing fast-food, homemade and plant-based chicken nuggets through the lens of gut health.20:31Making Microbiology More AccessibleShe discusses her passion projects, including a plant-based snack designed to increase dietary diversity and the children's book she wrote about the gut microbiome.Useful links https://www.a-star.edu.sg/sifbihttps://research.a-star.edu.sg/articles/highlights/wellness-starts-in-tiny-tummies/https://www.a-star.edu.sg/sifbi/news-events/in-the-news/should-you-have-char-kway-teow-at-lunch-or-dinner--ask-your-guthttps://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/parenting-education/mums-scientists-and-now-childrens-book-authorshttps://www.worldscientific.com/doi/10.1142/12486?srsltid=AfmBOoq5zWZ6Y1wEpOaTlv7cHwJa9kzAQEko5lCfE39i2hKMvfKv5hWZ#t=aboutBookhttps://www.linkedin.com/posts/germaine-yong_probiotics-superfoods-guthealth-activity-7395981510824189952-Fr0Ehttps://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/antimicrobial-resistanceDon’t miss outWe’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email:tanktalksasia@asiaworks.comAnd don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia. Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.
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    26 mins
  • How One Woman Changed Banking in India. And is Now Betting on AI | Arundhati Bhattacharya | Tank Talks Asia

    How One Woman Changed Banking in India. And is Now Betting on AI | Arundhati Bhattacharya | Tank Talks Asia
    Jul 29 2026
    In this episode of Tank Talks Asia, Manisha talks to Arundhati Bhattacharya, President & CEO, South and Southeast Asia, Salesforce and former Chair of the State Bank of India.As one of India’s most influential business figures, Arundhati discusses the impact of AI, the importance of values-based leadership, and the gender barriers she has faced throughout her career. She also reflects on the decisions that helped her transform India's largest bank.Featured Voices Hosts: Manisha TankGuest: Arundhati Bhattacharya, President & CEO, South and Southeast Asia, SalesforceKey takeawaysArundhati believes lasting leadership begins with taking action, which is a lesson she learned from her mother at an early age.She explains how listening to other women led her to take simple but transformative policies to remove barriers to career progression at SBI.Reflecting on demonetization in India, she says clear leadership, constant innovation and practical problem-solving were essential during one of India's biggest banking challenges.Arundhati argues AI is not a magic solution but a long-term transformation that depends on trusted data, strong governance and clear business outcomes.She believes AI should be viewed as an opportunity to create new skills and careers.Chapter heads02:31 The Power of IdentityArundhati reflects on her first encounter with gender bias and how lessons learned from her mother shaped her determination to build an identity of her own.05:58Never Part of the PlanArundhati explains how joining State Bank of India at the age of 22 marked the beginning of an unexpected four-decade career at the bank.08:23Removing Hidden Barriers for WomenShe describes how a practical housing challenge was preventing women from taking rural postings and how a simple solution helped change that.10:52 Leading Through DemonetizationArundhati reflects on managing India's largest bank through one of the country's biggest financial disruptions and why innovation became a daily necessity.13:34Starting Again at SalesforceShe reveals why leaving banking for the technology sector was one of the hardest decisions of her career and what ultimately persuaded her to join Salesforce.17:43Why AI Isn't a Magic WandArundhati believes successful AI adoption will require patience, trusted data and a willingness to experiment and learn.22:45Building Trust Across BordersShe discusses the challenge of deploying AI across Asia's diverse regulatory landscape, where compliance, privacy and trust are non-negotiable.24:35Is AI Really Taking Our Jobs?She says many young people in India view AI as an opportunity rather than something to fear.26:27Writing IndomitableArundhati shares how the pandemic gave her the time and motivation to write about the childhood experiences that shaped her life and leadership.28:47Carve Out What Doesn't ExistManisha revisits two memorable quotes from Arundhati, on territoriality and the dangers of complacency, as the conversation concludes with a reflection on what it takes to create new roles and keep growing.Useful links https://harpercollins.co.in/product/indomitable/https://www.salesforce.com/in/news/stories/arundhati-bhattacharya-india-award/https://fortune.com/2026/05/22/arundhati-bhattacharya-salesforce-south-asia-ceo-india-most-powerful/https://www.forbes.com/profile/arundhati-bhattacharya/https://www.ft.com/content/b46f06d9-2661-4685-9b5b-a3fd1791d64c?syn-25a6b1a6=1https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/banking/finance/banking/banks-shouldve-been-given-more-time-to-prepare-for-noteban-arundhati-bhattacharya/articleshow/61248590.cms?from=mdrhttps://www.salesforce.com/artificial-intelligence/Don’t miss outWe’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email:tanktalksasia@asiaworks.comAnd don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia.Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.
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    32 mins
  • How a Simple Walk Became a Global Movement. 23 Million Steps. Over $500K Raised for Dementia | Tom Platts, Walk-to-Talk.com | Tank Talks Asia

    How a Simple Walk Became a Global Movement. 23 Million Steps. Over $500K Raised for Dementia | Tom Platts, Walk-to-Talk.com | Tank Talks Asia
    Jul 15 2026
    In this episode of Tank Talks Asia, Manisha talks to Tom Platts, the Singapore-based M&A lawyer who turned a spur-of-the-moment walk around MacRitchie Reservoir into a global movement raising money and awareness for dementia.Tom shares how swapping a beer with a client for a walk in the jungle spiralled into Walk to Talk, a foundation now active across five countries that has raised more than half a million US dollars — and why two phone-free hours in nature each morning completely changed his outlook on life.Featured VoicesHosts: Manisha Tank & AndrewGuest: Tom Platts, Founder, Walk to TalkKey takeaways• Tom explains how a chance decision in January 2023 (swapping a client beer for a charity walk around MacRitchie Reservoir) grew into a movement called Walk to Talk.• He says the daily loops have spread far beyond Singapore, with regular walks now running in London, Melbourne, Dubai and New York.• Tom reveals the initiative has raised more than half a million US dollars for dementia charities across Singapore, the UK and Australia.• He argues that walking and talking away from screens is powerfully good for connection, wellbeing and brain health.• Tom urges anyone touched by dementia not to suffer in silence, noting that roughly 55 million people worldwide live with the disease.Chapter heads02:45The Expat Who Never LeftTom explains how an 18-month posting to Singapore in 2011 quietly turned into 13 years and counting.03:26A Beer That Turned Into A Big IdeaHe recalls a difficult year and the January morning he persuaded a client to swap a pint for a walk and a donation.07:50What Exactly Is MacRitchie?He gives a tour of the 12.1-kilometre loop, its wartime history and the wildlife he logs for Singapore's National Parks.09:50The Challenge Goes GlobalTom shares how Walk to Talk spread from Singapore's jungle to London's streets, Melbourne, Dubai and New York.12:26The Numbers Behind The StepsTom talks through the steps he took and the funds he raised for dementia charities across three continents, plus one-off causes close to his heart.16:04Getting Dementia OutdoorsHe explains why bringing people living with dementia into nature matters so much for memory and the senses.18:46Don't Suffer In SilenceTom offers advice to families facing dementia and puts the sheer scale of the disease into perspective.20:10Why Walking And Talking Is Beneficial For YouHe looks ahead to brain health, a growing team and how the whole thing reshaped the way he sees life.23:35How Can People Get In TouchTom shares how people can get involved with Walk to Talk.Watch a mini-documentary about Tom & The MacRitchie Challenge https://youtu.be/YJ9mz4vXi_gUseful linkshttps://www.walk-to-talk.com/https://dementia.org.sg/https://www.raceagainstdementia.com/https://www.dementia.org.au/https://www.linkedin.com/company/walktotalk/https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-platts-18924475Don't miss outWe're on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email: tanktalksasia@asiaworks.com.And don't forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don't miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia.Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.
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    25 mins
  • The Man Who Knows EVERYONE | Jasper Donat, CEO & Co-Founder Branded, All That Matters | Tank Talks Asia

    The Man Who Knows EVERYONE | Jasper Donat, CEO & Co-Founder Branded, All That Matters | Tank Talks Asia
    Jul 1 2026
    In this episode of Tank Talks Asia, Manisha talks to Jasper Donat, co-founder of Branded and creator of All That Matters (and the man who knows everyone!) about the three decades he has spent at the forefront of Asia’s media, music and live events industries. Jasper shares stories (name dropping included!) from a career spent connecting audiences, artists and ideas. He also reveals why he believes Asia is increasingly shaping global culture, rather than just consuming it.Featured Voices Hosts: Manisha Tank Guest: Jasper Donat, CEO and Co-Founder, BrandedKey takeawaysJasper says Asia has evolved from being a destination for global entertainment into a major exporter of culture, talent and influence.He argues that despite advances in AI and virtual events, people still want to gather in person and share live experiences.Jasper believes creator culture transformed fandom by creating direct and personal relationships between audiences and talent.He says the future of entertainment lies in the growing overlap between sports, music, culture and digital communities.Jasper states that Asian artists and creators are increasingly finding global audiences without relying on traditional Western gatekeepers.Chapter heads01:15Why I Never Went HomeJasper explains how a planned two-year move from London to Hong Kong led to a 30-year career in Asia.02:13The Birth of Modern Asian MediaHe reflects on the rise of satellite television, Channel V and the early efforts to localise content for Asian audiences.03:09A Marathon Was BornJasper tells the story of how a casual brainstorming session helped create the first Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon.04:04When the Spice Girls Came to DelhiHe reminisces about when some of the world's biggest music acts came to Asia during the region's entertainment boom.05:03Building Music MattersJasper explains why Asia needed its own music industry platform as the sector grappled with piracy, Napster and digital disruption.08:36The Day YouTubers Became SuperstarsJasper recalls the launch of YouTube FanFest and the moment creators proved they could command fan loyalty on a global scale.11:50The Craziest Fans in AsiaHe compares fan culture across the region, from the passionate crowds of the Philippines to the orderly queues of Singapore.15:11Influencers vs. A-ListersJasper weighs in on who holds more sway in Asia today and shares a memorable Nile Rodgers story.17:08When Shah Rukh Khan Wasn't the Main AttractionJasper recounts the surreal moment Bollywood's biggest star was overshadowed by Lilly Singh.19:09Why Asia Is Now Exporting CultureHe explains why the next chapter for Asian creators, musicians and entertainers is taking their influence to audiences around the world.Useful linkshttps://www.allthatmatters.asia/https://www.branded.live/https://www.youtube.com/@YouTubeFanFesthttps://www.wearyourmusic.com/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0WI23EMNKPEhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o9CY4CPgCzshttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wj9FxhGElochttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U_lPCGrbWMQhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zIZzZ28u-Vshttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pjjDwycSq4khttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JO6x9Xn6CsMDon’t miss outWe’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email:tanktalksasia@asiaworks.comAnd don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia. Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.
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    22 mins