The Financial Coconut Podcast

What would make someone walk away from a stable army career and a five-figure monthly paycheck… all at just 31 years old?Meet Mun Yuan of SunnySideSingapore, a former army regular who stunned everyone by leaving the force with a $1 million portfolio and a completely new life plan.But why would someone leave a stable career with all the perks and benefits? And how on earth did he achieve financial freedom so early?Here’s what you’ll get in this episode:The unexpected reason he signed on with the army and the even bigger reason he chose to leave.How he quietly built a seven-figure portfolio before most people even settle into their careers.The highs, the mistakes, and the “oh no” moments that shaped his FIRE journey.Why financial freedom completely rewired how he sees work, risk, and purpose.It’s rare to hear someone speak this honestly about money, career pivots, and breaking out of a system most people stay in for life.🔥 If you’ve ever wondered what it actually takes to redesign your life, this is the episode. Tune in now.---🎧 The Financial Coconut: Your weekly source for empowering financial knowledge and unlocking possibilities. We explore personal finance, investing, and entrepreneurship to help you build a richer life. 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📍 LISTEN & SUBSCRIBESpotifyApple PodcastYouTube🔗 CONNECT WITH USGet daily tips, insights, and community:InstagramTikTokTelegramWhatsappNewsletter📺 MORE FROM OUR NETWORKDiscover our other shows and deep dives on YouTube⚠️ 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.

We meet the guy who looked at Singapore’s brutal F&B scene and said…“Yeah, sure. Let’s sell fresh pasta.”Introducing Darren Tan, Co-founder & Brand Manager of PastaGo, the young entrepreneur who went from kneading dough in an abandoned kitchen during COVID to building one of the fastest-growing pasta brands around.And trust us, nothing about this journey is “al dente.”Think:🔥 Opening-day chaos🔥 The surprising science behind making pasta that survives delivery (AND picky customers)🔥 The secret psychology behind portions, add-ons, and why you think you’re full🔥 And why he refuses to offer discounts even on Day 1This isn’t just a pasta story.It’s a masterclass in product obsession, scrappy scaling, and breaking F&B “rules” one plate at a time.🎧 Tune in to hear Darren’s full story — the risks, the realities, and the pasta revolution he’s trying to build.---🎧 The Financial Coconut: Your weekly source for empowering financial knowledge and unlocking possibilities. We explore personal finance, investing, and entrepreneurship to help you build a richer life. 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📍 LISTEN & SUBSCRIBESpotifyApple PodcastYouTube🔗 CONNECT WITH USGet daily tips, insights, and community:InstagramTikTokTelegramWhatsappNewsletter📺 MORE FROM OUR NETWORKDiscover our other shows and deep dives on YouTube⚠️ 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.

Tackle some of the toughest challenges faced by caregivers and those planning for an uncertain future. From navigating the emotional weight of caring for loved ones, to the complexities of healthcare systems and managing financial stability, this discussion goes beyond the surface.Guests in the Spotlight:Dr Chong Poh Heng, MD, HCA Hospice ─ a leading figure in palliative care, brings a wealth of knowledge on the intricacies of end-of-life care, and the delicate balance of family dynamics during these times.Bertha Henson, Independent journalist ─ author and full-time caregiver, opens up about her personal journey caring for her mother with Parkinson’s, shedding light on the daily emotional and financial realities of caregiving.Timothy Liew, Head of Investments, OCBC ─ shares his expertise on how to plan financially for caregiving, the importance of insurance, and investment strategies to ensure your family's financial security amidst growing healthcare costs.You’ll Hear:The emotional weight of caregiving, from burnout to breakthrough moments.Smart financial strategies for tackling the financial strain of healthcare, from insurance to investments, and how to avoid the traps that drain your savings.A critical look at Singapore's healthcare system, uncovering the gaps, the resources available, and what caregivers really need to know.Insights on what the future holds for our aging population, and why we all need to start thinking about it now.This is a raw, no-fluff conversation about the realities we’re all facing. Tune in for the facts, the struggles, and the action steps you can take today.🎁 Join us on 29 & 30 November 2025 for The Price of Tomorrow: A Financial Wellness Festival. Seats are Limited. Secure them here: https://ocbcpriceoftomorrow.peatix.com/[The Price of Tomorrow, presented by OCBC, is held in conjunction with The Financial Coconut and RICE Media to take a holistic, human look at the role of money in our lives.]⚠️ Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed belong to the guest/content creator, and do not represent the views of OCBC Bank. 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.---🎧 The Financial Coconut: Your weekly source for empowering financial knowledge and unlocking possibilities. We explore personal finance, investing, and entrepreneurship to help you build a richer life. Join us as we explore personal finance, investing and more.🔗 CONNECT WITH USGet daily tips, insights, and community:InstagramNewsletter📺 MORE FROM OUR NETWORKDiscover our other shows and deep dives on YouTube

Explore the world of startups, wellness, and genetic technology with Cedric Lee, the Founder, and Choo Ee Ting, as Chief Commercial Officer of Connecting DNA.From corporate careers to entrepreneurship, they share their unique journey of launching a for-impact, for-profit business in the midst of a pandemic.Here’s what you’ll hear:The Power of DNA: How Connecting DNA uses genetics to unlock personalised wellness solutions.Leaving Corporate Life: Why they took the leap from successful careers to build a business during the pandemic.Global Ambitions: Plans to expand worldwide, starting with their first overseas office in Australia.B2B & B2C: How they’re partnering with wellness providers and reaching consumers with trust-based solutions.Tune in to get insights into the fast-moving world of health tech, the challenges of building a startup, and the mission that keeps them going! Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on more episodes like this.Join us for this fascinating conversation about blending science with entrepreneurship – don’t miss it!---🎧 The Financial Coconut: Your weekly source for empowering financial knowledge and unlocking possibilities. We explore personal finance, investing, and entrepreneurship to help you build a richer life. 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📍 LISTEN & SUBSCRIBESpotifyApple PodcastYouTube🔗 CONNECT WITH USGet daily tips, insights, and community:InstagramTikTokTelegramWhatsappNewsletter📺 MORE FROM OUR NETWORKDiscover our other shows and deep dives on YouTube⚠️ 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.

The job market today isn’t what it used to be, and if you’re a professional navigating it, you know it’s not just about grades or a prestigious degree anymore.Hear from Ainul Md Razib, a cybersecurity engineer and community builder, and Pang Xin Yi, a marketing and events expert redefining her career path.They share personal stories of how they landed their roles, what it took to break into their fields, and the lessons learned along the way, including:How to use social media to stand out in today’s hyper-competitive market.Why networking isn’t just about sending resumes.The importance of being curious and always learning.The mental and emotional hurdles faced during the job search.Tune in to hear their journey and pick up insights that will help you tackle the toughest job market yet. Whether you're job hunting, navigating your first gig, or trying to figure out your next move, this episode is packed with practical advice and motivational stories you won't want to miss.Join us for a candid conversation on navigating your career in today's competitive landscape!---🎧 The Financial Coconut: Your weekly source for empowering financial knowledge and unlocking possibilities. We explore personal finance, investing, and entrepreneurship to help you build a richer life. 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📍 LISTEN & SUBSCRIBESpotifyApple PodcastYouTube🔗 CONNECT WITH USGet daily tips, insights, and community:InstagramTikTokTelegramWhatsappNewsletter📺 MORE FROM OUR NETWORKDiscover our other shows and deep dives on YouTube⚠️ 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.

Meet Nawin Singh, Founder of All That Racket—a digital marketing pro who achieved FIRE on his own terms. No secret sauce, just strategic moves, some early stock wins, and a passion for tennis rackets.In this episode, Nawin shares:- How he turned Facebook RSUs into financial freedom.- His journey from digital marketing in the '90s to retiring early and living life on his own terms.- The surprising way his record collection could become his next big move.- Why Thailand is his retirement base, and how he’s balancing freedom with adventure.Want to know how digital marketing and a little bit of luck can unlock the life you want? Tune in to hear how Nawin made it happen—and how you can too.---Unlock global business potential with WorldFirst:Your all-in-one business account for global payments. Pay in 100+ currencies, collect in 20+ currencies with local bank details including USD, MYR, THB, CNH and more by opening a zero-cost multi-currency account. No minimum balance required. Enjoy unlimited 1.2% cashback on business expenses with their World Card!Act now to claim exclusive rewards: New users receive a USD100 sign-up bonus with code “EXCLUSIVEOFFER” (valid until 31 Dec 2025). Dive into effortless global transactions today:🔗 Explore the World Card🔗 Claim Your USD100 Sign-up Bonus---🎧 The Financial Coconut: Your weekly source for empowering financial knowledge and unlocking possibilities. We explore personal finance, investing, and entrepreneurship to help you build a richer life. 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🔗 CONNECT WITH USGet daily tips, insights, and community:InstagramNewsletter⚠️ 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 makes a character truly unforgettable? How do you take your favourite designs and turn them into an iconic brand that resonates globally?In this episode, we're diving deep into the world of merchandising, licensing, and the evolving journey of character-based businesses.Meet:- Wang Shijia, founder of the beloved Singaporean brand Ang Ku Kueh Girl, a true pioneer in bringing local culture to the global stage.- Chanel Lee, founder of Tasty Toastys, who has transformed her digital characters into a merchandise empire, combining NFTs with physical products for a new-age spin on branding.What we’ll cover:- The secrets behind turning a quirky character into a cultural icon.- The challenges of balancing creativity and business while maintaining authenticity.- How both of our guests navigated the world of licensing, marketing, and international expansion—and how you can, too.- Plus, we’ll touch on the role of NFTs, the future of physical merchandising, and the unexpected successes of viral moments.Ready to hear how two entrepreneurs cracked the code for turning characters into global phenomena?Tune in and get inspired for your own journey into the world of character merchandising.---Unlock global business potential with WorldFirst:Your all-in-one business account for global payments. Pay in 100+ currencies, collect in 20+ currencies with local bank details including USD, MYR, THB, CNH and more by opening a zero-cost multi-currency account. No minimum balance required. Enjoy unlimited 1.2% cashback on business expenses with their World Card!Act now to claim exclusive rewards: New users receive a USD100 sign-up bonus with code “EXCLUSIVEOFFER” (valid until 31 Dec 2025). Dive into effortless global transactions today:🔗 Explore the World Card🔗 Claim Your USD100 Sign-up Bonus---🎧 The Financial Coconut: Your weekly source for empowering financial knowledge and unlocking possibilities. We explore personal finance, investing, and entrepreneurship to help you build a richer life. 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🔗 CONNECT WITH USGet daily tips, insights, and community:InstagramNewsletter⚠️ 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.

Feeling like you’re behind in your 30s or 40s… even though, on paper, you’ve done everything “right”?Dive into that quiet mid-career ache: when the promotions, pay raises, house, family and “LinkedIn wins” still don’t stop you from feeling… not enough.🎧 Tune in if you’ve ever caught yourself scrolling LinkedIn thinking,“Everyone else is sprinting ahead. What am I doing with my life?”Here’s what we’ll explore:- Why mid-career success can still feel strangely empty – even when you’ve ticked most of society’s boxes.- The invisible pressure of LinkedIn & humblebrags – and how constant comparison messes with your self-worth.- Internal vs external success – are you chasing your own definition… or a script handed to you by parents, school, or culture?- When your job title is your identity – what happens when retrenchment, restructuring, or redundancy hits.- How to start decoupling your worth from your work – small mindset shifts to move from “never enough” to more grounded contentment.- Why life purpose often gets louder in your 30s & 40s – and how to listen to it before burnout forces you to.👥 Our guests this week:- Michelle Mah – a psychotherapist and coach in her second career, who works with high performers that “look like they’re winning” on the outside but struggle with meaning and self-worth on the inside.- Esther Koh – a senior HR leader in the financial services industry, as well as an ontological coach, parenting coach and counsellor, who’s led transformation at work while navigating caregiving, loss, and redefining success on her own terms.If you’ve ever wondered, “Who am I without my job title or my pay slip?”…this episode is your permission slip to find out.---🎧 The Financial Coconut: Your weekly source for empowering financial knowledge and unlocking possibilities. We explore personal finance, investing, and entrepreneurship to help you build a richer life. 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🔗 CONNECT WITH USGet daily tips, insights, and community:InstagramTikTokTelegramWhatsappNewsletter📺 MORE FROM OUR NETWORKDiscover our other shows and deep dives on YouTube⚠️ 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.