Crucial Conversations

Embark on a visionary journey into the future of leadership and innovation with our guest, Jan Henrik Bartscht, the dynamic force steering Leadapreneur's innovation powerhouse. Hailing from both the UK and Germany, Jan is not your typical CEO; he's a futurist, disruptor, and visionary committed to reshaping 21st-century leadership.In this episode, we unravel the intricacies of Jan's approach to building an ecosystem that engages talent for innovative outcomes at scale, all executed reliably, predictably, and with guaranteed ROI. Drawing parallels to our previous exploration with Jan, we delve into Jan's dual cultural roots, examining how they shape his worldview and contribute to redefining leadership in the interconnected landscape of the modern world.Prepare for a robust discussion as we dive into Jan's entrepreneurial journeys. He will articulate his perspectives on the inherent benefits of creativity and innovation. His aspirations extend beyond mere business enhancement; he aims to leverage innovation as a catalyst for positive transformations in the world, seeking to bring forth the utmost benevolence to those in his sphere of influence.Join us for an episode that stimulates the mind and serves as a clarion call for changemakers eager to navigate the evolving landscape of leadership and innovation.

What makes an ordinary man extraordinary? How does an athlete with unyielding tenacity turn an unthinkable diagnosis into a beacon of hope? Join us on this inspiring journey through the life and legacy of Terry Fox, a man whose spirit continues to impact the world. Listen to intimate family stories shared by Terry's brother, Darrell Fox, and learn about Terry's determination that resonates with millions even today.From being a regular student and athlete to becoming an emblem of hope, Terry’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. Dive into Terry's monumental cross-Canada marathon - a testament to his willpower, which saw him run a marathon every day for 143 days straight, despite losing his leg to cancer. Darrell shares insights into the family's reaction to Terry's audacious plan and how they stood by him through thick and thin.As we conclude this journey, we reflect on Terry Fox's legacy and the ongoing fight against cancer. From the establishment of the Terry Fox Foundation, the Terry Fox Research Institute to the creation of the Terry Fox Center, Darrell enlightens us about the invaluable contributions these organizations have made in the realm of cancer research. Emphasizing the importance of involving the younger generation and the potential of emerging technologies, this episode serves as a compelling reminder of the power of determination and the lasting impact one individual can have on the world. Tune in and draw inspiration from a tale of unyielding resilience and relentless hope.Visit the below website to see the legacy and work the Terry Fox Research Institute is doing. https://www.tfri.ca/

Ever wondered how Singapore, a small yet mighty nation, has become a beacon of progress and functionality? Buckle up as we take you on a journey through this impressive success story, guided by our guest Kaijie NG, a former leader in Singapore with an intriguing career path that spans both public sector and startup scenes. We discuss the country's thriving world of entrepreneurship, the unique social contract between its people and government, and how one's personal experience of social mobility plays a pivotal role in a nation's success.As our conversation unfolds, we shift our focus to the intricacies of corporate innovation. Our guest shares valuable insights about their work at IMDA and the crucial role this organization plays in fostering a symbiotic relationship between corporates and startups. Through the Open Innovation Platform, they've been able to facilitate numerous problem statements and exponentially grow the ecosystem. Get ready to delve into the nitty-gritty of aligning different business cultures, navigating growth challenges in startups, and the role of trust in successful mergers and acquisitions.As we wrap up, we'll explore how the IMDA's innovation division is driving forward corporate innovation strategies. Hear about the efforts to bring together corporates and startups, the importance of diverse solution providers, and the vision to help corporates become self-sufficient in innovation. We'll also discuss the success of the Open Innovation Platform, it's impact on the Singapore market, and how it bridges the gap between corporates and startups. By the end of this episode, you'll walk away with a newfound appreciation for Singapore's entrepreneurial culture, the value of social contracts, and the ongoing efforts to propel corporate innovation.

Picture yourself embarking on a journey to the heart of sustainability with our fascinating guest, Simon, the founder of Handprint. Simon's odyssey from the heartland of Belgium to a lecturing post at Singapore Management University has gifted him a deep understanding of the environment, economic structures, and the role businesses can play in knitting these woven threads together. We'll share valuable insights from his world travels and experiences in an orphanage in South America, unearthing lessons on community, resilience, and the humbling beauty of human connection.This episode questions the status quo, challenges the well-worn paths of environmental dialogue, and highlights the importance of embracing innovative approaches in the fight against climate change. We explore the power of nature's positive feedback cycles and the potential economic and human life benefits they can unleash. From the heated debate of switching from nuclear to coal, to the potential consequences of reducing the use of fertilizers in agriculture, and the exciting possibility of transforming farmland into sustainable tourism or nature rewilding—no stone is left unturned.Finally, we take a deep look at the innovative strategies employed by Handprint to promote sustainability. We discuss their unique business model, which combines technology and business to foster transparency and accountability in the environmental space. You'll hear about their upcoming product, a novel banking card that contributes to positive impact projects with each transaction. We also discuss their collaborations with various industries and their efforts to foster a marketplace where NGOs set the price for a unit of impact. Join us, as we navigate these complex waters with Simon, gaining invaluable insights and sparking thought-provoking discussions about our shared future.

Step into the future with Craig Wing, a visionary futurist, PhD candidate, and global keynote speaker who has graced stages in over 45 countries. In an era where the boundaries of the physical, digital, and biological worlds are increasingly intertwined, Craig, with his expertise in emergent futures thinking and disruptive technologies, offers a unique lens to view the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. He astutely observes, "If the work can be done by a machine, it's disrespectful to give it to a human being."Having consulted with the UN, moderated the 10th BRICs summit, and even turned down an opportunity with one of Richard Branson’s companies, Craig's experiences provide a rich tapestry of insights. Dive deep into the art of "futureproofing," exploring everything from the intricacies of the fourth industrial revolution to the ethical dilemmas of AI. As he challenges us to reflect on our current stance, he reminds us, "The education system is a systems issue. You don't fix it by saying, 'let's create more jobs.'"Whether you're an entrepreneur, a corporate leader, or simply curious about the trajectory of our world, this masterclass is your compass. With Craig's thought-provoking assertion, "By 25, I wasn't black, white, or anything in between. What was I?", he invites listeners to ponder identity, technology, and the transformative landscape ahead, all while sharing tales from his own journey – from converting his car to electric to hosting sessions at the African Innovation Symposium.Embark on this enlightening journey with a man who's not just predicting the future but actively shaping it. Equip yourself with the knowledge and tools to not just anticipate what's next but to be an active participant in its creation. Join us in this masterclass and be inspired to shape your own future.

In the newest episode of 'Crucial Conversations', we invite you on a captivating journey with AJ, a tech visionary whose entrepreneurial spirit knows no bounds. Fresh from university, AJ faced the challenges of his first business head-on, setting the stage for a career defined by adaptability and innovation. From his foundational roots in IT, he ventured into the nuanced world of Digital Sovereignty, and further delved into the complexities of Quantum Computing. But AJ's aspirations didn't stop there. With eyes set on the cosmos, he's now exploring the vastness of space, pushing the boundaries of what's possible.Throughout the episode, listeners are treated to a series of enlightening insights:AJ's Business Philosophy: "It's not just about the product. It's about crafting holistic solutions where your product plays a pivotal role."Market Acumen: "Understanding your target audience and crafting a precise market strategy is the key to success."Strategic Collaborations: "Partnerships, like the one with the Thai government, elevate business credibility and showcase the potential of your offerings."Market Realities: "Introducing a product in a market like Thailand, which is a decade behind in digital adoption, presents its unique challenges."Product Evolution: "It's not just about creating; it's about identifying needs, ensuring market resonance, and scaling effectively."Community Building: "In the tech world, it's essential to foster a community and educate, rather than push aggressively."This episode is more than a conversation; it's a masterclass in tech entrepreneurship. AJ's evolution from IT to the forefront of technological innovation is a testament to his relentless drive and visionary zeal. Tune in to 'Crucial Conversations' and immerse yourself in the world of a true tech pioneer.

Join us for a riveting episode of "Crucial Conversations" with the dynamic Elke Biechele, the powerhouse at the helm of RisikoTek Pte Ltd. Having lent her expertise to global institutions like Standard Chartered Bank, UBS, and the European Central Bank, Elke is no stranger to the intricacies of the financial world. Dive deep as she unveils her passion project – RisikoTek and its revolutionary AMALIA software, a beacon in financial crime intelligence. Unravel the world of tokenized litigation finance and its potential impact on traditional stock market dynamics. Journey through Elke's formidable career, from managing global derivative portfolios in London to setting up risk frameworks in Singapore. And as a trailblazing woman in tech and finance, Elke's mission is evident – to challenge, expose, and combat the fraudulent underbelly of the financial realm. Tune in for insights, innovations, and inspiration from a woman dedicated to combating the shadows of financial misdeeds. 

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Ng Nichol, the CEO of X-Inc group of companies, Co-Founder of The Food Bank Singapore, and board member of several NGOs. In this episode, we take a deep dive into Nichol's extraordinary journey with her family's food supply business, FoodXervices Inc, and her audacious digital transformation drive that turned the company's fortunes around.We'll learn about the challenges she faced during the company's transition from a traditional business model to a tech-driven one, and how her meticulous, hands-on approach facilitated the process. Hear how Nichol spearheaded the company's foray into the digital space, teaching staff to use new technologies, setting up a corporate website, and implementing an Enterprise Resource Planning software to streamline operations.Nichol shares her compelling story of rejuvenating the family business, acquiring it, setting up a modern enterprise, and navigating through the upheaval of the COVID-19 pandemic. Once again Nichol is faced with the consequences of a black swan event that has pushed this business to the brink of survival and she openly shares the challenges and next steps to be taken. We also unpack the amazing work being accomplished with the Food Bank and the positive impact this is having for those in need. Tune in for an insightful dialogue on business transformation, resilience, and the power of digital technology.

Tune into this compelling episode of Crucial Conversations with Dr. Viveka Kalidasan, an esteemed technopreneur, recognized as one of MIT Technology Review's '35 Innovators Under 35' and 'Top 100 Women in Technology' in Singapore. From creating patient-centric medical devices to initiating 'The Industry 5.0 Women' venture building program at The Edify Project, Dr. Kalidasan's pursuits empower diversity and foster innovation.As the Director of Venture Building and Business Development (APAC) with Vertical Velocity Ventures, she aids businesses scale in the SG & APAC region. Besides this, she is a Board Member at the Singapore South Asia Chamber of Commerce and Industries (SSACCI), and the brains behind Let-Lab, an innovation lab of Ultra Clean Holdings Inc.In our conversation, we discuss her impactful mentorship work, her ground-breaking research in wireless sensing sutures, and her vision for sustainable Industry 4.0 innovations. Join us for an inspiring look into Dr. Kalidasan's exceptional journey in the realms of technology, entrepreneurship, and leadership.

Welcome to another episode of Crucial Conversations, in this episode we sit down with Cheng Guo, the founder of Step VR, a company that is revolutionizing the metaverse experience. Imagine immersing yourself in a movie as a character, playing counterstrike with your friends in the metaverse while running through the physical world. What if AI could change the ending of a game or movie based on the actions you take during the experience, this is all becoming a reality. Are you ready, player one!Step VR, founded in 2013, has dedicated nearly a decade to perfecting the technologies required to create an authentic virtual reality experience. With a remarkable portfolio of over 80 patents, Step VR has developed core technologies such as laser positioning, motion capture, robotic haptic, and an omnidirectional motion system. These innovations have culminated in the creation of the world's first and only metaverse portal device, capable of replicating all five senses within the virtual world. Meta and Apple Vision Pro hold onto your helmets!In our conversation, Cheng takes us on a journey through his genesis story, revealing the inspiration behind his vision for Step VR. We delve into the fusion of different technologies that enable this immersive experience, elevating it above the rest. We also explore the pain points and challenges Cheng encountered along the way, from building a dedicated team to scaling this technology on a global level.But it doesn't stop there. We uncover how Step VR's technology is fostering new communities, bringing people together in large warehouses to engage in joint combat experiences reminiscent of popular games like Counter-Strike. This technology is redefining the boundaries of teamwork and collaboration in virtual environments.One of Step VR's most remarkable achievements is the regeneration of the five senses. Through a decade of research and development, Cheng and his team have created a metaverse experience that fully immerses users with sensory feedback. Their flagship product, Gates 01, features a groundbreaking omnidirectional treadmill that eliminates spatial limitations and motion sickness, providing a seamless VR experience. Cheng also shares his futurist thinking and provides glimpses of his upcoming innovations and ventures. As a true pioneer, he envisions using technology to propel humankind forward, and his ideas are sure to spark your imagination.Join us in this captivating episode of Crucial Conversations as we uncover the story behind Step VR, the challenges faced, the remarkable technology developed, and the future that Cheng Guo envisions for the metaverse and beyond.