Work It

Tang Jia Wen, a journalist from CNA Today, explores the transformative power of lunch breaks at work. She highlights the health risks of dining at your desk and how it can diminish productivity. Tang emphasizes that taking proper breaks can reset your brain and enhance nutrient absorption. She also discusses how team lunches build relationships and promotes a culture of wellness. With practical tips like meal prep and mindful eating, she encourages viewing lunch as an investment in both mental health and productivity.

Leaving a job role after 16 years for something different takes more than just opportunity – it requires bold courage. Guest Ivan Aw made a strategic pivot to embrace AI and shares with Gerald Tan and Nat Fetalvero the lesson he learnt about not waiting for the perfect moment to make the switch.  This episode was brought to you by UOB. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dean Tong, Head of Group Human Resources at UOB, dives into the intricacies of workforce transformation amid AI advancements. He discusses the shifting landscape of banking jobs, the importance of upskilling in combating financial crimes, and the design of effective reskilling programs. Dean emphasizes the need for employee agency in job transitions and the role of AI as a supportive tool, not a replacement. He defines success in workforce transformation as achieving purpose and balance through continuous learning.

After years of working as a safety specialist, 36-year-old Joe Kwek took the plunge and transformed his fascination with digital tools into a full-fledged tech career. In this episode, he tells host Nat Fetalvero how failing the initial training tests didn’t deter him from pursuing his dream.    This episode was brought to you by IMDA. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Goki Muthusamy, Head of People at Visa, and Samuel Hoong, Assistant Technology Manager at SimplifyNext, discuss the vital intersection of AI and workplace skills. They explore how generative AI transforms repetitive tasks into valuable real-time insights. Goki highlights the significance of soft skills and practical tools at Visa, while Samuel shares his journey with AI technology. Together, they emphasize on-the-job training as essential for upskilling and encourage a mindset of adaptability and curiosity to thrive in the evolving job landscape.

At an age when most people are in their early career years, 29-year-old sprinter U.K. Shyam retired from the track. The former national 100m record holder in Singapore shares with hosts Nat Fetalvero and Gerald Tan how his first career switch was “not by choice” but crucial in preparing him for future career shifts in an ever-changing job market.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a bittersweet episode for the Work It podcast, Tiffany Ang bids farewell to the show. Tiffany reflects on her favourite episodes and imparts one last crucial piece of wisdom for our listeners on the power of allyship in your career. As we say goodbye to one host, we welcome another, Nat Fetalvero, who will be joining Gerald Tan to continue the conversation on thriving in the workplace.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You’re asked to take on extra work for colleagues who are away on training or long leave, and there’s no one to share the load. How do you address this with your boss? Have a work-related question to ask a career counsellor? Email us at cnapodcasts [at] mediacorp.com.sgSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

David Ha, the Co-founder and CEO of Sakana AI, dives into the talent race in the age of AI. He shares insights on attracting global talent to Japan by fostering a Silicon Valley-like culture. Ha emphasizes Japan's soft power in research and development to make it a magnet for skilled professionals. He also discusses the unique expectations of Gen Z in the workplace, highlighting their desire for ownership, flexibility, and career growth, while recognizing the importance of adapting to a rapidly changing job market.

Someone has been promoted in your team, but he is reluctant to lead.  How do you handle and support a manager who needs managing? Have a work-related question to ask a career counsellor? Email us at cnapodcasts [at] mediacorp.com.sgSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.