The Financial Coconut Podcast

Ready to navigate the explosive world of franchising in 2025?We sit with three industry powerhouses who’ve lived and breathed franchising from every angle:Ms Hsien Naidu, CEO, Astreem Consulting Pte Ltd - 20-year franchise guru who’s scaled award-winning brands across AsiaMr Gan Shee Wen, President, Franchising and Licensing Association (Singapore), Vice President, Group Sales and Marketing, Koda Ltd and Chief Operating Officer, Commune Lifestyle Pte Ltd - Retail disruptor who conquered China’s cutthroat market with furniture franchisingMr Lee Shao Rong, Owner & F&B Entrepreneur - From near-failure to 11 outlets—the founder of Super Green shares hard-won ops truthsWe’re talking 2025 franchise trends you need to know:✅ Why location isn’t just about foot traffic — and the counterintuitive strategy behind choosing the right spot✅ The hidden costs no one talks about — from manpower to mall logistics✅ How China is rewriting the franchise playbook — and what it means for you✅ Why empathy between franchisor and franchisee is the secret sauce to long-term success✅ And the #1 question you must ask before signing any franchise agreementThis is more than just a preview of FLAsia — it’s your insider’s guide to making smarter, data-driven decisions in a fast-evolving landscape.Whether you’re a franchisor, franchisee, or eyeing your first investment, this episode is your 2025 survival kit.Tune in now — and don’t miss the exclusive Franchise Mastermind Workshop at FLAsia 2025, where potential franchisees get 2 hours of hands-on guidance from industry leaders.📍Mark your calendars: FLAsia 2025, September 18–20 at Marina Bay Sands👉 Score a Free Visitor Pass: https://qr1.be/CR6O👉 Or use code [FLA25_TFC_20] for 20% off conference tickets! (Partner events excluded).See you there!01:54 - Introduction: Ms Hsien Naidu, CEO, Astreem Consulting Pte Ltd02:43 - What motivated you to stay in the franchising space for 20 years?04:29 - Introduction: Mr Gan Shee Wen, President, Franchising and Licensing Association (SG)06:19 - Why take on the franchise presidency despite your busy schedule?08:08 - Introduction: Mr Lee Shao Rong, Owner & F&B Entrepreneur, Supergreen08:39 - How did you get started, and what did it cost to enter the business?14:45 - What key trends are shaping the franchising space today?18:26 - How do you stay competitive and viable in a crowded CBD market?20:06 - Is your brand more affordable, and what’s the risk-reward trade-off?21:51 - How should one evaluate data trade-offs in modern franchise models?25:11 - How do you choose franchise locations to ensure business success?34:43 - What’s a fair expectation of brand reinvestment from franchisors?---Welcome to The Financial Coconut, your source for empowering financial knowledge and unlocking possibilities. Join us as we explore personal finance, investing and more.Disclaimer: The content discussed in this episode is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice. Please do your due diligence before making any investment or financial decisions.

Is your rent eating up your profits? Are you struggling to keep inventory without overstocking? Small business owners, this one’s for you.Hear from Terence Yow, Chairman, SGTUFF, a seasoned entrepreneur who’s navigated the highs and lows of retail—from surviving on passion and life savings to weathering the storm of rising rents and post-pandemic challenges.What you’ll discover:- The one inventory mistake that’s killing small retailers- Why “rental renewal shock” is real—and how it’s pushing businesses to the edge- Hidden clauses in tenancy agreements that could cost you thousands- A surprising alternative market just across the causeway that’s gaining tractionPlus: Smart leasing strategies, the myth of “prime location,” and how to future-proof your business in an unpredictable market.Don’t miss this raw, real conversation about what it actually takes to survive—and thrive—as a small business owner in Singapore today.---Welcome to The Financial Coconut, your source for empowering financial knowledge and unlocking possibilities. Join us as we explore personal finance, investing and more.Get ready to take control of your financial future and live your best life, financially wise: https://linkin.bio/thefinancialcoconut[Podcast, Vodcast]Spotify: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-spotifyApple Podcast: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-applepodcastYouTube: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-youtube[Connect with us]Instagram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-instagramTik Tok: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-tiktokTelegram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-telegramWhatsapp: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-Whatsapp-channelNewsletter: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-NewsletterCheck out our other shows: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFinancialCoconutTFC/playlists Disclaimer: The content discussed in this episode is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice. The information provided is based on our understanding at the time of recording and may not reflect the current regulations or market conditions. The opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent those of The Financial Coconut. Please do your due diligence before making any investment or financial decisions.

What happens when the life you’ve built suddenly unravels?Meet Eddie aka LazyCabbie — a man who went from running his own business to driving a taxi overnight. But this isn’t just a story about career collapse. It’s about identity, shame, anger, and what it truly means to rebuild — not just your income, but your self-worth.You’ll hear:- The moment everything fell apart — and the one emotion that consumed him (hint: it wasn’t sadness)- Why his biggest critic wasn’t society… or his family… but someone much closer- How a simple comment from his wife sparked a journey that now has thousands watching and healing alongside him- The surprising place he found therapy — and no, it wasn’t a counselor’s officeEddie didn’t just survive his downfall — he transformed it into a message that’s resonating across Singapore and beyond. And his definition of success? It might just challenge everything you think you know.Tune in because sometimes, the most inspiring stories come from those who’ve lost everything… and found themselves in the process.Don’t miss it. Available now on all major podcast platforms.---Welcome to The Financial Coconut, your source for empowering financial knowledge and unlocking possibilities. Join us as we explore personal finance, investing and more.Get ready to take control of your financial future and live your best life, financially wise: https://linkin.bio/thefinancialcoconut[Podcast, Vodcast]Spotify: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-spotifyApple Podcast: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-applepodcastYouTube: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-youtube[Connect with us]Instagram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-instagramTik Tok: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-tiktokTelegram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-telegramWhatsapp: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-Whatsapp-channelNewsletter: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-NewsletterCheck out our other shows: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFinancialCoconutTFC/playlists Disclaimer: The content discussed in this episode is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice. The information provided is based on our understanding at the time of recording and may not reflect the current regulations or market conditions. The opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent those of The Financial Coconut. Please do your due diligence before making any investment or financial decisions.

What if everything you’ve been told about success in Singapore is… optional?We sat with one of Singapore’s most talked-about new voices in personal finance and intentional living: 🐢 ContraTurtleWho is ContraTurtle?He’s not a trader. He’s not into get-rich-quick schemes. And no, that turtle mask he shows up in isn’t a gimmick – it’s a philosophy. Inspired by Charlie Munger and powered by AI (yes, really), ContraTurtle is on a mission to challenge the script: graduate, get a job, buy a condo, repeat.Tune in as he shares:- Why the "condo-and-car" script might not be your path to happiness.- How a shocking family loss led to a radical rethink of money and purpose.- The surprising connection between Charlie Munger, a scarecrow village, and finding your Ikigai.- ContraTurtle’s nine criteria for picking stocks—and why "lazy investing" could be your best strategy.- A glimpse into the future of tech investing (hint: it involves AI glasses and WhatsApp).This isn’t just about money. It’s about designing a life that’s truly yours — not one borrowed from your parents, your peers, or societal pressure.Listen now wherever you get your podcasts!#Investing #Singapore #Contrarian #Ikigai #Podcast---Welcome to The Financial Coconut, your source for empowering financial knowledge and unlocking possibilities. Join us as we explore personal finance, investing and more.Get ready to take control of your financial future and live your best life, financially wise: https://linkin.bio/thefinancialcoconut[Podcast, Vodcast]Spotify: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-spotifyApple Podcast: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-applepodcastYouTube: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-youtube[Connect with us]Instagram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-instagramTik Tok: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-tiktokTelegram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-telegramWhatsapp: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-Whatsapp-channelNewsletter: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-NewsletterCheck out our other shows: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFinancialCoconutTFC/playlists Disclaimer: The content discussed in this episode is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice. The information provided is based on our understanding at the time of recording and may not reflect the current regulations or market conditions. The opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent those of The Financial Coconut. Please do your due diligence before making any investment or financial decisions.

What happens when faith meets fintech? When mosques couldn’t collect donations—and banks couldn’t help—one man built a solution from scratch.Meet Harimann Hayak, the corporate veteran who created Giving Friday, a digital platform empowering mosques to receive donations seamlessly, uphold amanah (sacred trust), and plan with certainty.Now used across communities, his vision is expanding beyond Singapore—into a full ecosystem for Muslim institutions, powered by tech and faith.We explore:🔹 Why banks failed Friday donations🔹 How he overcame regulations and doubt🔹 The rise of AI Ustaz and what’s nextThis isn’t just an app. It’s a movement.Whether you’re into fintech, social impact, or underdog stories, this episode is a masterclass in turning obstacles into opportunities—with heart.Tune in anywhere you get your podcast!---Welcome to The Financial Coconut, your source for empowering financial knowledge and unlocking possibilities. Join us as we explore personal finance, investing and more.Get ready to take control of your financial future and live your best life, financially wise: https://linkin.bio/thefinancialcoconut[Podcast, Vodcast]Spotify: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-spotifyApple Podcast: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-applepodcastYouTube: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-youtube[Connect with us]Instagram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-instagramTik Tok: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-tiktokTelegram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-telegramWhatsapp: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-Whatsapp-channelNewsletter: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-NewsletterCheck out our other shows: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFinancialCoconutTFC/playlists Disclaimer: The content discussed in this episode is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice. The information provided is based on our understanding at the time of recording and may not reflect the current regulations or market conditions. The opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent those of The Financial Coconut. Please do your due diligence before making any investment or financial decisions.

You need more than spreadsheets and suits to thrive in finance today. Forget the Wall Street stereotypes — the game has changed.You’ll discover:- The ONE mindset shift top finance pros swear by (hint: it’s not about suits or spreadsheets).- Why LinkedIn visibility is now your secret weapon (even in compliance-driven roles!).- The unspoken rules no one teaches you — until you learn them the hard way.- How "work-life integration" beats balance (and why passion trumps paychecks).Meet our powerhouse guests:- Angela Ang, Head of Policy & Strategic Partnerships, APAC @ TRM Labs (Blockchain intelligence): From MAS regulator to crypto innovator — and a LinkedIn thought leader redefining policy influence.- Zhong Liang Han, Senior Investment Strategist at BlackRock, Forbes 30 under 30, LinkedIn Top Voice in Finance with the blue tick, decoding volatile markets and building a personal brand from the trading floor.They’ve shattered ceilings in traditional finance and crypto — and they’re spilling truths about grit, authenticity, and why finance is WAY more diverse than you think.Don’t miss this candid crash course on building a finance career that doesn’t just pay well… but fuels you.Tune in now wherever you get your podcasts!---Welcome to The Financial Coconut, your source for empowering financial knowledge and unlocking possibilities. Join us as we explore personal finance, investing and more.Get ready to take control of your financial future and live your best life, financially wise: https://linkin.bio/thefinancialcoconut[Podcast, Vodcast]Spotify: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-spotifyApple Podcast: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-applepodcastYouTube: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-youtube[Connect with us]Instagram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-instagramTik Tok: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-tiktokTelegram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-telegramWhatsapp: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-Whatsapp-channelNewsletter: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-NewsletterCheck out our other shows: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFinancialCoconutTFC/playlists Disclaimer: The content discussed in this episode is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice. The information provided is based on our understanding at the time of recording and may not reflect the current regulations or market conditions. The opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent those of The Financial Coconut. Please do your due diligence before making any investment or financial decisions.

CPF suffers from a universal problem: Complexity.People either ignore it, misunderstand it, or build their 'financial house' on shaky ground..Get a peek behind the curtain from someone who not only helped design the CPF system but also manages his own daily finances (and CPF money) within it.Our guest is former Deputy CEO of CPF – Mr. Chin Heng Soh, who will share more on:- Why CPF is both a powerful foundation and a double-edged sword for Singaporeans.- The boring-but-brilliant investment strategy he swears by (hint: it’s not stocks!).- Critical gaps in healthcare/insurance planning most people overlook.- How to turn policy complexity into your advantage.Mr. Soh isn’t just a policy insider—he’s a counselor, financial trainer, and self-proclaimed "boring investor" who’s survived market chaos. He’ll show you how to simplify your financial life and achieve true independence—no jargon, just real talk.Tune in to find out if your money is working as hard as his!04:37 - Why did you choose to stay so long in CPF instead of rotating?09:18 - What drove CPF's shift to life policies, and are they still relevant?14:01 - How are you and your wife approaching IP plans and rider choices?18:18 - How do you plan your finances with CPF as part of the strategy?21:25 - How do you approach CPF investing given the low average returns?26:24 - How do you manage your mortgage, property, and OA together?31:49 - How do you manage income that isn’t part of the CPF system?33:37 - Why wouldn’t you fully invest your SRS funds for maximum returns?---Welcome to The Financial Coconut, your source for empowering financial knowledge and unlocking possibilities. Join us as we explore personal finance, investing and more.Get ready to take control of your financial future and live your best life, financially wise: https://linkin.bio/thefinancialcoconut[Podcast, Vodcast]Spotify: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-spotifyApple Podcast: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-applepodcastYouTube: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-youtube[Connect with us]Instagram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-instagramTik Tok: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-tiktokTelegram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-telegramWhatsapp: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-Whatsapp-channelNewsletter: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-NewsletterCheck out our other shows: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFinancialCoconutTFC/playlistsDisclaimer: The content discussed in this episode is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice. The information provided is based on our understanding at the time of recording and may not reflect the current regulations or market conditions. The opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent those of The Financial Coconut. Please do your due diligence before making any investment or financial decisions.

Gifting is a broken business, but one visionary dropout is on a mission to fix it. How? By merging cutting-edge tech, cultural insights, and sheer hustleTune in as we sit down with Dong Wenhao, Co-Founder of Smilie, the maverick entrepreneur who turned industry pain points into a scalable solution. Here’s a sneak peek:- Why traditional gifting giants struggle to adapt- The surprising role mindset plays in innovation (hint: it's huge)- How data and digitalisation are key to bringing transparency to an opaque industry- The challenges of fundraising in a tough market – and unconventional partnerships that emergedPlus, he shares raw wisdom for budding entrepreneurs about starting up, building the right relationships, and finding true freedom in business.It's a conversation packed with hustle, insight, and a unique take on disrupting a massive market.Don’t miss this unfiltered conversation about resilience, infrastructure, and the art of turning ‘cannot’ into ‘can.’#SingaporeBusiness #CorporateGifts #SMEsSG #SingaporeStartups---Welcome to The Financial Coconut, your source for empowering financial knowledge and unlocking possibilities. Join us as we explore personal finance, investing and more.Get ready to take control of your financial future and live your best life, financially wise: https://linkin.bio/thefinancialcoconut[Podcast, Vodcast]Spotify: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-spotifyApple Podcast: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-applepodcastYouTube: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-youtube[Connect with us]Instagram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-instagramTik Tok: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-tiktokTelegram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-telegramWhatsapp: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-Whatsapp-channelNewsletter: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-NewsletterCheck out our other shows: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFinancialCoconutTFC/playlists Disclaimer: The content discussed in this episode is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice. The information provided is based on our understanding at the time of recording and may not reflect the current regulations or market conditions. The opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent those of The Financial Coconut. Please do your due diligence before making any investment or financial decisions.

Is job-hopping really the key to better pay and faster promotions? Or could it be quietly harming your long-term career in Singapore?We speak with two seasoned professionals—Shelly Chan and Yinn Ewe—who stayed over a decade in the same organisation and climbed the ladder through internal mobility, not constant switching. We unpack:- The real cost of job-hopping vs staying- Whether 30% pay jumps are worth the risk- What hiring managers actually think of frequent job changes- Internal talent mobility: how to grow without leaving- How mindset, personal purpose and people-fit impact your long gamePerfect for Singaporean professionals wondering: Should I stay for stability or leave for growth?Whether you're mid-career, exploring your next move, or in HR thinking about talent retention, this episode gives you candid insights and frameworks that go beyond surface-level career advice.Leave a comment if you’ve ever struggled with this decision—and tell us what finally made you stay or go.06:27 How can you tell if someone left a job mainly for financial gain?10:29 How do you justify frequent moves to hire‑ers?13:27 Personal Experiences with Pay Increments23:43 What’s the first move when growth stops?28:27 How do you go from shy to assertive on raises?34:22 Dealing with Colleague Competition and Personal Growth#JobHopping #CareerAdvice #SingaporeJobs---Welcome to The Financial Coconut, your source for empowering financial knowledge and unlocking possibilities. Join us as we explore personal finance, investing and more.Get ready to take control of your financial future and live your best life, financially wise: https://linkin.bio/thefinancialcoconut[Podcast, Vodcast]Spotify: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-spotifyApple Podcast: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-applepodcastYouTube: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-youtube[Connect with us]Instagram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-instagramTik Tok: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-tiktokTelegram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-telegramWhatsapp: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-Whatsapp-channelNewsletter: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-NewsletterCheck out our other shows: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFinancialCoconutTFC/playlists Disclaimer: The content discussed in this episode is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice. The information provided is based on our understanding at the time of recording and may not reflect the current regulations or market conditions. The opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent those of The Financial Coconut. Please do your due diligence before making any investment or financial decisions.