In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with Valentin and Hwee Keng Maeder, the inspiring parents behind Singapore’s young kitefoiling champion, Max Maeder. I was incredibly curious to learn how Max — a world-class athlete with remarkable character, mental strength, discipline, and resilience — was raised to be not only successful but also grounded and confident. From the interviews I’ve watched and read, Max strikes me as an exceptional athlete and a genuinely great person, someone clearly brought up with strong values.

His parents generously share their unique journey, revealing how they nurtured his independence, embraced failures as essential to growth, and created a safe space where their children could explore their passions without fear of judgement. With practical lessons on balancing personal expectations, resisting societal pressures, and fostering courage and authenticity, this conversation offers an inspiring glimpse into the values and insights that shaped Max and his siblings, providing guidance for parents everywhere striving to raise grounded, confident children.

00:00 Introduction 

01:25 Get To Know The Maeders 

03:42 Nurturing Independence in Children 

08:05 Addressing Fear with Probability 

10:19 The Maeders' Unconventional Parenting Views

12:59 Creating Safe Spaces at Home 

15:46 Parenting Through Different Stages 

18:40 Family Rituals That Strengthen Bonds

20:14 Max’s Journey: Solo Travels at Age 11

22:58 Guiding Children Through Failure

26:36 The Myth of Perfect Parenting

30:13 Breaking Generational Patterns 

35:13 The Maeder’s Approach on Discipline 

37:47 Navigating Conflict and Reconciliation 

38:43 Prioritising Yourself and Letting Go of Parental Expectations 

41:02 Going Against Societal Norms and Pressure 

45:09 Final Reflections and Key Takeaways

Follow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/