BRAVE Southeast Asia Tech: Singapore, Indonesia, Vietnam, Philippines, Thailand & Malaysia Startups, Founders & Venture Capital VC (English)

Vikram Bharati, founder of Draper Startup House, and Jeremy Au talked about how the startup world has shifted since their last conversation. They explored how Draper Startup House has expanded across continents while wrestling with the challenge of scaling both physical spaces and community-driven programming. They discussed how remote and hybrid work are evolving post-pandemic, and how startups are adapting faster than large corporations. They also reflected on parenting and preparing the next generation for a fast-changing world, where original thinking and adaptability may matter more than credentials. Vikram also shared his growing interest in “digital nations,” a concept that could reshape how governments serve people and how individuals relate to borders and institutions. 1. Scaling Draper Startup House globally: Vikram shares that Draper Startup House has grown to 15 locations across South America, India, and Korea, focused on building startup communities in adventurous and underserved places. 2. Finding the right people as a challenge: The model combines real estate ("hardware") and startup programming ("software"), which requires local leaders who can do both—something that's tough to find consistently. 3. Remote work is here to stay: Vikram believes the post-pandemic world has made flexible work a permanent reality, especially for startups and global teams like his, which now span the US, Brazil, India, Portugal, and more. 4. Hybrid models work best: The trend he sees is a mix of in-person and remote work—typically two or three days in the office—which balances productivity and employee satisfaction. 5. Parenting in a changing world: Both Jeremy and Vikram reflect on raising young kids today, and how future success may depend more on adaptability and creativity than traditional credentials or schooling. 6. Unique perspectives come from unplugging: Vikram suggests that stepping outside the common information feed is one way to build original thinking—especially as everyone now consumes the same digital content. 7. Digital nations as the next frontier: Vikram outlines his interest in building “digital nations”—online systems that provide government-like services and community without being bound to geography, potentially expanding opportunity beyond borders. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.braves ea.com/blog/scaling-startup-communities Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts

Shiyan Koh, Managing Partner of Hustle Fund, and Jeremy Au explored the growing challenges of youth unemployment in Singapore and how AI is fundamentally changing the job market. They discussed how the rise of automation is making entry-level roles less necessary, leading companies to prioritize experienced hires who can work with AI rather than train fresh graduates. They also examine how AI amplifies the gap between high and low performers, making adaptability and self-motivation more crucial than ever. They also talked about the need for educational reforms that focus on problem-solving and real-world applications, as well as how young professionals can position themselves for success in an AI-driven economy. 1. Youth unemployment rates are increasing – In 2022, 94% of Singapore university graduates were employed within six months, but by 2024, only 87% of fresh graduates had secured full-time jobs. 2. AI is displacing entry-level jobs – AI tools are replacing tasks traditionally done by junior employees, reducing the need for new hires, especially in roles like market research, legal functions, and writing. 3. Companies prefer experienced hires – Businesses are opting for experienced workers who are comfortable using AI tools, reducing the reliance on entry-level hires due to the high cost of training and managing juniors. 4. AI benefits top performers – High performers in companies are already leveraging AI, while low performers are falling behind, highlighting that AI does not necessarily level the playing field. 5. The challenge of learning through apprenticeships – Entry-level positions have traditionally been apprenticeships where workers learn the craft. With fewer junior roles available, the next generation of workers may lack the experience needed for senior positions. 6. Education needs to change to foster agency – Shiyan suggests that education should focus on helping students develop agency and problem-solving skills by working on open-ended real-world problems, rather than simply memorizing facts. 7. The importance of finding passion and adaptability – As AI changes the job landscape, young professionals must be passionate about their work and adaptable to new tools like AI to remain competitive in the evolving market. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/ai-job-disruption Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts

Jeremy Au talked about how venture capitalists assess startups based on their ability to scale rapidly, led by strong founders with a clear strategy and market fit. However, their decisions are shaped by heuristics, biases, and time constraints. The best founders move fast, refine their pitches, and demonstrate exponential growth potential. He also discussed how VCs evaluate startups, the common pitfalls in fundraising, and why speed and conviction matter. 1. VCs bet on exponential growth – Investors look for startups that can double or triple revenue yearly. “If you start at $10K, triple it, then double—you’re at $100M in nine years.” 2. Founders are the first filter – VCs assess character, skill, and drive.  A great founder learns fast and executes relentlessly. 3. Strategy must be clear – Investors back ideas that are logical and practical. A strong strategy directly addresses market demands. 4. 10x thinking defines winners – Great startups offer a product that is 10x better, target a massive market, and have strong unit economics. 5. Speed wins in venture capital – The best deals close fast, often within hours. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.braves ea.com/blog/venture-capital-decision-tree Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts

Benjamin Loh, Certified Speaking Professional and Jeremy Au discussed public speaking, thought leadership, and leadership growth. They reflected on Benjamin’s journey from public speaking to training financial advisors and running a thought leadership agency. They explored how social media amplifies voices, how leaders can shape industry narratives, and the challenges of managing perception online. Benjamin also shared personal reflections on balancing ambition with personal commitments and learning from past mistakes. 1. From speaker to trainer to agency leader: Benjamin started as a public speaker, transitioned into training financial advisors, and eventually launched a thought leadership agency to scale his impact. 2. The power of storytelling in leadership: He sees himself as a teacher, believing great speakers don’t just inform but create change through compelling narratives. 3. Public speaking and consulting have shared DNA: Both require deep understanding of people, but agency work demands managing teams, systems, and fast-changing industry trends. 4. Thought leadership must be polarizing: To stand out in a noisy world, leaders must take clear, sometimes divisive stances that attract their audience while pushing away others. 5. Social media rewards boldness, not neutrality: The best content sparks conversation, and platforms amplify strong opinions over safe, middle-ground messages. 6. Managing criticism is part of the game: Benjamin shares how he handles online negativity, including personal attacks, and reframes them as opportunities to engage and build credibility. 7. Balancing ambition and family is tough but necessary: He opens up about past mistakes in prioritizing work over family and the effort it takes to rebuild relationships. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.braves ea.com/blog/polarizing-thought-leadership Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts

Jeremy Au and Valerie Vu discussed Vietnam’s evolving role in global trade, the impact of US-China tensions, and the country’s sweeping internal reforms. They explore how foreign investments are reshaping Vietnam’s industries, how the government is navigating trade uncertainties, and how local businesses are adapting to increased competition. They also covered Vietnam’s efforts to modernize infrastructure, attract high-tech industries, and balance relationships with global powers. With a strategic mix of diplomacy, economic reform, and foreign direct investment, Vietnam is positioning itself for long-term growth despite short-term challenges. 1. Vietnam is bracing for US trade policies – Holding a $124 billion trade surplus with the US, Vietnam is under watch for potential tariffs. However, its penalties are expected to be lower than China’s, preserving its competitive edge in exports. 2. Chinese companies are relocating to Vietnam – One in three new investments comes from China, as manufacturers shift production to avoid US tariffs. Initially focused on final assembly, these companies are now moving entire supply chains to Vietnam. 3. Vietnam’s infrastructure boom is attracting foreign capital – The government is launching high-speed rail, metro lines, and road projects to boost logistics. Chinese, Japanese, and Korean firms are competing for contracts, making infrastructure a key driver of economic growth. 4. The government is restructuring for efficiency – In its largest administrative reform since 1986, Vietnam is cutting 20% of its public sector workforce and merging ministries. While aimed at reducing corruption, these changes are causing short-term business disruptions. 5. Foreign investors are competing in Vietnam’s growing economy – China and Hong Kong lead with 1,300 new projects, outpacing Singapore, South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, and the US combined. While Vietnam welcomes all investors, proximity gives Chinese businesses a logistical advantage. 6. Vietnam is maintaining the “bamboo policy” strategy – The country balances relations with the US, China, and Russia through strategic trade deals. A $1.5 billion Trump-branded golf resort highlights Vietnam’s pragmatic approach to foreign investment. 7. Tourism and real estate are major economic drivers – Vietnam’s travel market is projected to more than double to $42 billion by 2030, driven by domestic and Chinese visitors. Meanwhile, real estate demand remains high, with a full market rebound expected by 2027. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/vietnams-trade-shift Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts

Jeremy Au breaks down the fundamentals of unit economics, customer acquisition, and blitzscaling in startups. Using real-world examples, he explains how different business models—like SaaS versus consumer goods—affect profitability and marketing strategies. The conversation explores the challenges of scaling aggressively, the importance of timing in venture capital, and how execution often matters more than funding. This discussion offers a clear look at how startups grow, succeed, or fail based on financial discipline and strategic decisions. 1. Unit economics drive business strategy – Startups need to understand their customer lifetime value (LTV) and cost structures to determine if they can scale profitably. A SaaS business with an LTV of $100,000 operates very differently from a low-margin consumer product. 2. Marketing depends on customer value – High-LTV products like Rolex watches justify brand marketing at events like F1, while low-margin goods rely on last-minute impulse purchases at checkout. 3.Blitzscaling can be a gamble – Uber scaled by putting $1 in to get $5 back, while Gojek spent $200 million in Vietnam but had to exit. Scaling fast can create market dominance or lead to massive losses. 4. Execution beats funding – Anywheel, a Singaporean bike-sharing startup, outperformed VC-backed competitors by staying lean and efficient, proving that strategy often matters more than capital. 5. Timing is everything in venture capital – A 21-year-old AI founder secured funding within hours by moving fast. Jeremy hesitated for eight hours and lost the opportunity, highlighting the importance of quick decision-making in competitive markets. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/blitzscaling-pitfalls Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts

Sadaf Sultan, Founder of Finprojections, and Jeremy Au analyzed the eFishery financial scandal and discuss broader issues of financial fraud in startups. They talked about why eFishery was appealing to investors and how the fraud unfolded and shared their insights into detecting fraud effectively. They explore the challenges faced during investor due diligence, overlooked warning signs, and practical suggestions for strengthening investor safeguards. 1. A promising vision: eFishery attracted investors by presenting itself as a solution for fragmented markets through vertical integration and improved efficiencies. 2. Start small, grow big: Initial minor revenue inflation escalated rapidly under pressures from ambitious fundraising goals. 3. Behind closed doors: The founders executed fraud through round-tripping transactions using shell companies to create artificial revenue. 4. Hard to detect: Auditors struggled to identify fraud due to heavy dependence on founder-provided information. 5. Overlooked red flags: Large bonuses to the finance team and sudden departures of key financial staff were early, but ignored, warning signals. 6. Strengthening investor checks: Investors need to leverage local expertise, perform forensic audits, and set up clear whistleblowing channels. 7. Recognizing red flags: Common fraud tactics include confusing GMV with revenue, overstating recurring revenue, aggressive credit offerings, and misclassifying discounts as marketing costs. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/sadaf-sultan2 Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcast Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts

Gita Sjahrir, Senior Advisor at TBS Energi Utama, and Jeremy Au talked about the complexities of corporate governance and accountability within emerging markets. They discussed the eFishery scandal, the Pertamina corruption case, and the broader implications for economic growth and investor trust.  1. Investor Due Diligence: Gita and Jeremy highlighted the need for investors to go beyond financial reports and conduct on-ground audits to detect fraud early. 2. Impact of Fraud: They discussed how fraud not only inflates financials but also demotivates teams by reducing the urgency for operational improvements. 3. Founder Accountability: They emphasize that while investors play a role, founders are ultimately responsible for corporate governance and ethical leadership. 4. Valuation Risks: High early valuations create unrealistic expectations, making it harder for startups to deliver sustainable growth. 5. Government and Public Roles: Citizens are increasingly pushing for consequences in corruption cases, as seen in the Pertamina scandal. 6. Fuel Subsidies vs. EV Adoption: They analyzed how fuel subsidies in countries like Indonesia and Malaysia slow down electric vehicle adoption and market competitiveness. 7. The Cost of Poor Communication: Governments that fail to clearly communicate policy shifts, like subsidy reductions, can trigger public backlash and economic uncertainty. 8. Strategic Energy Transitions: They argued that Southeast Asia needs a phased, well-communicated shift toward sustainable energy to ensure long-term stability. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/corporate-finance-failure-impact Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts

Jeremy Au discussed common startup failure patterns, and emphasized that failure is frequent and often inevitable even for companies that make it to later funding stages. Many startups fail to deliver financial returns for investors, regardless of how innovative or pioneering they might be. He also talked about various reasons for failure, from team issues to premature scaling, providing real-world examples to illustrate these patterns: 1. Good Idea, Bad Bedfellows: A strong idea can fail due to poor team dynamics, such as co-founders unable to agree on leadership or lacking the right expertise. 2. False Starts: Startups that build products without understanding customer needs often fail. 3. False Positives: Early customer success can mislead founders into scaling too quickly, leading to failure when they target the wrong market. 4. Speed Trap: Startups that achieve product-market fit but expand too quickly into new products or markets can burn through capital unsustainably. 5. Help Wanted: Sometimes external factors like market shifts or bad luck cause failure, even when product-market fit is achieved. 6.Cascading Miracles: Some startups that fail despite raising large sums of money or low customer traction later spark similar successful ventures. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/startup-failure-patterns Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts

Jeremy Au reconnects with Kwok Jiachuan, his first-ever podcast guest, to reflect on their journey from school friends to army roommates to co-founders of Conjunct Consulting. They talked about the challenges of starting and scaling a social impact consultancy, from early skepticism to securing funding and navigating the evolving nonprofit landscape. They also discuss leadership lessons, the importance of sustainability, and how their work has shaped the next generation of social impact leaders. The conversation is a candid look at what it takes to build something meaningful and why community matters. 1. From friends to co-founders: Jeremy and Kwok first met at 15 in a creative arts camp, later became army roommates, and eventually teamed up to build a pioneering social impact consultancy. 2. Solving a gap no one else saw: They realized nonprofits lacked strategic help while young professionals wanted to contribute, so they created a platform that connected both. 3. Facing doubt and rejection: People dismissed their idea, fundraising was tough, and they had to figure out everything from legal structures to convincing nonprofits to trust them. 4. Turning a passion project into a real business: What started as a volunteer effort had to evolve into a structured, financially sustainable social enterprise to survive long-term. 5. Adapting to a changing landscape: The social sector professionalized with more government funding and consulting firms entering the space, forcing Conjunct to evolve its role. 6. A legacy that lives on through people: Alumni have gone on to lead impact-driven initiatives, and Tribe Consulting, founded by former members, continues the work they started. 7. Lessons for future changemakers: Passion alone isn’t enough—build for sustainability, find allies in the ecosystem, and focus on long-term impact. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/social-entrepreneur-wisdom Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts