They talk about what makes the Sevens such a thrilling global spectacle, the evolution of the tournament and how it continues to grow as both a sporting and cultural event. And they even divulge some top tips on which players and teams to watch out for this year!

Featured Voices

Host: Andrew Clark

Guests: Jon Pallett, Head of Communications, Hong Kong China Rugby

Jamie Farndale, General Manager Club Development & Sustainability, Hong Kong China Rugby

Key takeaways

• Jon and Jamie talk about how the Hong Kong Rugby Sevens manages to create a festival-like atmosphere which differentiates it from other rugby tournaments.
• They say that the tournament’s evolution over the past 50 years has broadened its appeal to diverse and international audiences.
• They believe the move to Hong Kong’s Kai Tak stadium has enhanced the Sevens experience, at the same time as preserving traditions like the South Stand’s party vibe.
• They discuss how the Sevens plays a crucial role in grassroots rugby development, inspiring youth participation across Hong Kong and beyond.
• They say the Hong Kong Sevens is a bucket-list experience for sports fans worldwide.

Chapter heads

02:25

What is Rugby Sevens?

Jamie explains how the game is much more fast-paced (and has less players) than a traditional rugby game. He also talks about how relentless and physically demanding Sevens matches are.

03:36

The Hong Kong Sevens Experience

Jon says the tournament manages to combine sport, entertainment and fan engagement to create a really unique festival atmosphere.

04:20

Then vs Now: The Evolution of the Event

They discuss how the Sevens has transformed over the years from an expat-focused event into a more inclusive, family-friendly global attraction.

07:12

The Legendary South Stand

Jamie gives his take on how the South Stand has weathered the move to the new Sevens stadium at Kai Tak.

09:46

Beyond the Pitch: Growing the Game

Jon talks about how Hong Kong China Rugby is inspiring youth participation in rugby and trying to expand the sport’s reach.

10:45

Economic Powerhouse

Jon shares some insights into the economic impact of the Sevens and how it compares to other global sporting events.

12:03

A Bucket List Sporting Event

Both Jon and Jamie say the Hong Kong Sevens is a must-visit experience for international fans.

13:08

Top Tourist Tips

Jon and Jamie each reveal their must-see itinerary for visitors coming to Hong Kong.

16:41

Celebrating 50 Years at Kai Tak

They talk about how the event’s 50th anniversary is being marked, with expanded programming and enhanced fan experiences, while also recognising its heritage.

19:07

The Future of Rugby in Hong Kong

Jon and Jamie give their opinion on upcoming international competitions and share their long-term vision for the sport.

21:36

Who’s Going to Win?

Jon and Jamie reveal who they think will come out on top at this year’s Hong Kong Sevens.

Useful links

https://hksevens.com/

https://hksevens.com/tickets/tickets

https://hksevens.com/news/flying-in-for-the-hk-7s-here-are-7-things-you-need-to-know

https://www.hkrugby.com/

https://www.svns.com/en/fixtures-and-results/svns

https://www.kaitaksportspark.com.hk/venues-spaces/4

https://www.rugbyworldcup.com/2027/en

https://www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/index.html

Don’t miss out

We’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email:

tanktalksasia@asiaworks.com

And don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia.

Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.

Drawing on nearly three decades of experience in sport, Victor also discusses the economics of sports participation, the evolving Olympic model, and why the next generation is redefining how sport fits into modern lifestyles.

Featured Voices

Host: Manisha Tank

Guest: Victor Cui, Global Sports Executive, Co-founder of ONE Championship and founding partner of EPIC World Championship

Key takeaways

1. Victor believes pickleball’s inclusivity is helping to drive its global rise, because it allows players of different ages, abilities, and backgrounds to compete together.
2. He says pickleball surged in North America first, but that Asia will be the sport’s next growth wave due to its large population and accessible infrastructure.
3. Victor explains how the EPIC World Championship introduces a poker-style prize pool that grows as more players enter the competition.
4. He states that the future of sports events is experiential, which is why EPIC aims to offer food, music and other social experiences on the sidelines of the competition.
5. Victor talks about how sport is evolving, as younger generations increasingly view sport and wellness as social and lifestyle activities, rather than purely competitive pursuits.

Chapter heads

00:26

The Pickleball Boom

An introduction to why one of the fastest-growing sports in the world is attracting both passionate fans and vocal critics in Singapore.

02:58

The Origin of EPIC

Victor Cui explains how conversations with friends sparked the idea for the EPIC World Championship, and how players qualify.

05:52

A New Kind of Prize Pool

He details the innovative poker-style model behind the prize purse, which grows as more players enter.

07:20

F1-Style Event Energy

Victor says EPIC aims to be more than just a pickleball tournament, and talks about how the competition will combine sport with music, food, and festival-style entertainment.

09:01

When Sports Meet Urban Living

He explains how EPIC is trying to balance pickleball’s popularity, at the same time as responding to concerns about noise and community impact.

11:06

The Business of Participation Sports

Victor notes that low barriers to entry and being able to use shared infrastructure make pickleball economically very attractive.

14:29

Why Youth Sports Culture Differs by Region

He reflects on how attitudes toward youth sports differ between North America and Asia.

16:31

Do the Olympics Still Matter?

Victor discusses how the Olympic model is evolving to deliver legacy value and stronger commercial partnerships.

20:18

The Integrity Challenge in Modern Sports

He says the growth of sports betting is changing the risks and governance of professional competition.

22:14

More Irons in the Fire?

To conclude, Manisha asks Victor what we can expect from him next.

Useful links

https://pickleball.com/

https://epicworldchampionship.com/

https://www.singaporepickleball.com.sg/

https://www.ft.com/content/e0d8801b-e8f6-4b58-9d2d-814469f358fe

https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/politics/50-badmintonpickleball-courts-to-be-built-in-singapore-over-next-5-years

https://www.onefc.com/

https://olympic.ca/

https://www.the-wolfpack.com/

https://gastrobeats.com.sg/

https://thesnowleague.com/

Don’t miss out

We’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email:

tanktalksasia@asiaworks.com

And don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia.

Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.

Their conversation also covers why water scarcity is a crisis hiding in plain sight, and why attracting young people could be the ultimate measure of national success, along with what this all means for where to live, invest and build a future.

Featured Voices

Host: Manisha Tank

Guest: Parag Khanna, Author; Founder and CEO, AlphaGeo

Key takeaways

1. Parag says that premium insurance spikes and “uninsurable” zones are reshaping property markets.
2. He believes water is the next global fault line and he identifies areas of drought, where there’s poor infrastructure and dense populations as future crisis zones.
3. Parag says Europe dominates AlphaGeo’s “Periodic Table of States”, which ranks countries by their strength, stateness and overall stability.
4. He warns that population decline, which will have profound economic and geopolitical consequences, is coming faster than many people realize.
5. Parag believes that the countries attracting young people will be tomorrow’s winners because they are the ones doing most things right.

Chapter heads

02:45

The Moment That Changed Everything

Parag talks about how a trip to the Berlin Wall when he was 12 years old sparked a lifelong interest in geopolitics.

06:51

Climate Risk Has a Price Tag

Parag believes that rising insurance premiums are a very clear signal that markets are repricing climate danger.

07:58

The Cape Coral Warning

He explains how a Florida boomtown became a case study in uninsurability and collapsing housing demand.

09:40

The Periodic Table of States

Parag discusses what AlphaGeo’s data-driven framework, which ranks countries by strength, stateness and stability, reveals.

12:07

Water: The Crisis We’re Ignoring?

He outlines why drought risk, poor adaptation capacity and population density are a volatile mix.

14:47

Are We Really “In This Together”?

Parag states that climate mitigation may be global, but adaptation is still very local.

16:57

Fewer Humans, Different Map

He goes on to discuss why demographic collapse and political realignment could reshape the global map within the next 50 years.

20:16

AI: Smarter Than You?

Parag gives his take on the growing power of AI and what he thinks it’s bad at.

21:26

Quickfire Questions

Manisha quizzes Parag on everything from the dollar, to robots, Mars, and the cities he believes may no longer exist in future decades.

24:50

The Ultimate Future Test

Parag says attracting young people is the simplest, most powerful measure of a nation’s long-term success.

Useful links

https://www.paragkhanna.com/

https://alphageo.ai/

https://alphageo.ai/ptos/

https://futuremap.io/

https://www.wsj.com/real-estate/florida-cape-coal-home-prices-3f64a0df?gaa_at=eafs&gaa_n=AWEtsqcHaPjcD_jsdgyhm2r-y80Z865UalG0t_cj99FSYde9CI8L-X0bKVe3yjlhYqQ%3D&gaa_ts=699f687b&gaa_sig=ywrW49bLpxVDUAb9e1tPqaaVbay2s4Nz7ZKLPP3WOZknd-4EC0NHxcuGeEpinQwYm2Lrn6mVvxLSBIMXrMxEHg%3D%3D

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412021005614

https://www.oecd.org/en/publications/2025/06/global-drought-outlook_28488e98/full-report/towards-a-drier-world_6f10e2e5.html

https://www.roseville.ca.us/

Don’t miss out

We’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email:

tanktalksasia@asiaworks.com

And don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia.

Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.

They cover topics including PCOS and the role stress hormones can play in male and female infertility. Manisha and Sastya also talk about what happens when a country’s fertility rate drops below replacement levels.

Featured Voices

Host: Manisha Tank

Guest: Sastya Wardani, CEO and Co-founder, Ovy Health

Key takeaways

1. Sastya says infertility is rising fast across the globe and is now estimated to affect 1 in 6 people, but she believes this number could be even higher in parts of Asia.
2. She says fertility challenges don’t just affect women, in her experience it’s now a 50:50 split between men and women.
3. She explains how hormones can affect everything, showing up as brain fog, mood swings, fatigue, fat storage, and hair loss.
4. Sastya believes early testing is key, with simple hormone tests able to provide crucial insights before problems may escalate.
5. She talks about the economic consequences and long-term societal impact of falling fertility, highlighting some Asian countries which are already below the 2:1 replacement rate.

Chapter heads

02:55

Breaking the Menstruation Myth

Sastya addresses the stigmas that surround menstruation in some cultures and says outdated beliefs still shape women’s health experiences.

06:18

PCOS: The Silent Disruptor

She says that PCOS affects around 1 in 10 women, but is frequently underdiagnosed and misunderstood.

08:16

A Hormone Information Gap?

Manisha asks Sastya why it’s common to see leaflets about diabetes at Doctors clinics, but yet information about hormones seems to be less readily available.

10:50

Egg Reserve Reality

Sastya talks about AMH, which she says is a crucial fertility marker, but many women have never heard of it.

12:16

The Fertility Time Bomb in Asia

She notes that replacement fertility rates are falling in parts of Asia, which raises demographic and economic concerns.

14:37

The Male Fertility Taboo

Sastya says factors that can affect male fertility, such as working with a laptop on the knee or even the type of clothes worn, are rarely discussed.

17:24

The Importance of Getting Checked

She explores rising infertility rates and says that understanding hormonal health from puberty is essential to safeguard future reproductive health.

21:30

The Stress Hormone

Sastya explains how our bodies release cortisol when we are stressed, which can push us into fight or flight mode and have an adverse effect on fertility and overall health.

23:58

Be Your Own Advocate

She says we need to take matters into our own hands when it comes to our overall health and have more open conversations.

Useful links

https://www.ovyhealth.com/ https://www.euromonitor.com/article/womens-health-in-asia-pacific-adapting-solutions-to-local-consumer-needs-and-lifestyles#:~:text=Needs%20and%20Lifestyles-,Women's%20Health%20in%20Asia%20Pacific:%20Adapting%20Solutions%20to%20Local%20Consumer,traditional%20regimes%20to%20relieve%20discomfort.

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/infertility

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/polycystic-ovary-syndrome

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/male-infertility

https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/SP.DYN.TFRT.IN

https://asia.nikkei.com/economy/demography/japan-s-number-of-babies-born-marks-record-low-for-10th-straight-year

https://www.uobgroup.com/assets/web-resources/research/pdf/MN_250925A.pdf

https://www.bca.co.id/-/media/Feature/Report/File/S8/Laporan-Riset-Ekonomi/2025/12/2026-indonesia-economic-outlook-inching-towards-higher-growth-19-december-2025.pdf

https://www.towardshealthcare.com/insights/fertility-market-sizing

https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/infertility-drugs-market

https://www.weforum.org/publications/women-s-health-investment-outlook-2026/

https://www.singstat.gov.sg/find-data/search-by-theme/population/births-and-fertility/latest-data

https://www.population.gov.sg/files/media-centre/publications/Population_in_Brief_2025.pdf

https://www.hcamag.com/asia/news/general/the-cost-of-ignoring-fertility-39-of-employees-would-consider-leaving-their-job/558052

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12537526/

https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/64880/lifestyle-and-environmental-factors-and-human-fertility/magazine

https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-flo-health-study-suggests-women-could-get-endometriosis-diagnoses-more-than-50-sooner-302700748.html

https://www.weforum.org/publications/closing-the-women-s-health-gap-a-1-trillion-opportunity-to-improve-lives-and-economies/

Don’t miss out

We’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email:

tanktalksasia@asiaworks.com

And don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia.

Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.

In this special live episode, Manisha Tank is joined by:

1. Steve Okun – CEO APAC Advisors, a specialist in US–Asia relations
2. Sam Olsen – Geopolitical analyst focusing on global power dynamics

Together they discuss:

• What has happened in the last 24 hours

• How the crisis could reshape global power dynamics

• Why the Strait of Hormuz matters for Asian economies

• How China and other Asian powers may respond

• What businesses and policymakers in Asia should be watching next

Their conversation covers everything from Mark Carney’s headline-making Davos speech and the global impact of Donald Trump’s presidency, to China’s multilateral rise, the conflict in Ukraine, and the future of the UN.

Featured Voices

Host: Manisha Tank

Guests: Samir Puri, Inaugural Director, Centre for Global Governance and Security, Chatham House, Author and Former UK Diplomat

Joel Ng, Senior Fellow and Head of Centre for Multilateralism Studies, S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies

Key takeaways

Samir and Joel assert that the global centre of gravity is shifting away from the west, as states adapt through multi-alignment rather than bloc politics.

They suggest China has been preparing for this moment, having built multilateral influence to position it centrally within this emerging order.

They say a shift towards regional security responsibilities is underway and that the US may not want to remain the world’s security guarantor.

They discuss the possibility that the war in Ukraine may end pragmatically, not ideally.

Samir and Joel talk about how the UN, which is set to appoint a new secretary general this year, is facing an existential test as the need for multilateralism grows.

They touch on whether climate cooperation may become a focal point for renewed global alignment, especially between Europe and China.

Chapter heads

02:01

A Defining Speech at Davos

Samir and Joel discuss how Mark Carney’s address at the World Economic Forum signalled a reset in global alignments and even echoed historic moments from the past.

05:50

Hedging as a Viable Strategy

Samir believes that Asian multi-alignment is becoming a model for western powers navigating US-China rivalry.

07:10

China’s Multilateral Architecture

Joel explains how Beijing has been building platforms, partnerships and institutional influence for decades.

08:12

Who Polices the World Now?

Samir and Joel give their views on the limits of American security guarantees and the rise of regional responsibility.

11:50

Ukraine and the Limits of Idealism

Samir says he thinks the war in Ukraine may end in pragmatic compromise rather than total victory.

17:11

Is the UN Still Fit for Purpose?

Samir and Joel debate what role the UN still has to play in a world of great power rivalry.

20:03

Climate in the Shadows

They discuss how the green agenda risks being buried and explore the potential for greater collaboration between China and Europe.

23:25

Looking to the Future

Samir and Joel weigh in on where multilateralism might be headed and why there are reasons to stay optimistic.

Useful links

https://www.samirpuri.com/

https://www.hachette.co.uk/titles/samir-puri/westlessness/9781399722636/

https://www.worldscientific.com/worldscibooks/10.1142/14463?srsltid=AfmBOop57P3ns25wtQ_Y7t2kJiVbpjeAic081TOSrXBC3ZMOj7jzmESf#t=aboutBook

https://www.chathamhouse.org/

https://rsis.edu.sg/research/cms/

https://www.weforum.org/

https://www.un.org/un80-initiative/en

https://asean.org/

Don’t miss out

We’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email:

tanktalksasia@asiaworks.com

And don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia.

Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.

Razeen also talks about how he views Buddhism as both a unifying and evolving force across the continent. And he reflects on his own Buddhist journey, which includes an epic 42-day silent Vipassana meditation retreat.

Featured Voices

Host: Manisha Tank

Guest: Razeen Sally, Economist and Author

Key takeaways

1. Razeen talks about how the rise of Asia is helping to reshape politics, economics, and culture, but he says that while this rapid modernization brings opportunities, it also comes with spiritual costs.
2. He believes youth-led uprisings in Asia often reflect frustrations with the elites and the uneven distribution of economic opportunity.
3. Razeen says social media amplifies biases and creates political vacuums that can be filled by populist or inexperienced leaders.
4. He discusses how Buddhism has historically acted as a unifying force in Asia, but says that today it is fragmented, politicized, and can be tied to nationalistic agendas.
5. Razeen believes that some reform within Buddhist societies could make the tradition more relevant to the 21st century.

Chapter heads

00:30

Who is Razeen Sally?

Manisha introduces Razeen, highlighting his global expertize, travel writing, and how he splits his time between Sri Lanka and Wales.

03:05

Politics Shaped by Childhood

Razeen shares a formative experience he had as a child, which sparked his lifelong interest in politics, current affairs, and understanding the world.

04:43

Losing and Finding Faith

He talks about losing his faith in university, but later rediscovering the importance of spirituality.

05:25

Why Gen Z is Rising in Asia

Razeen discusses the Gen Z protests in Asia, the impact of modernization, and the challenges of trying to break elites.

07:05

Social Media: Power or Problem?

He says social media can both inform and polarize, and highlights the influence it can have on populist movements.

09:28

Can Leaders Be Trusted?

Razeen shares his take on leadership, and why he believes politics and businesses often fall short in both the East and West.

14:45

Buddhism’s Journey Across Asia

He explains the historical and cultural evolution of Buddhism, from its origins in India to its spread across Asia and the West.

18:00

Buddhism in China

Razeen examines the revival of Buddhism in China and the role he believes religion can play in maintaining social and political stability.

21:40

A Unifying Path?

He discusses Buddhism’s historical role in uniting Asian empires, but says that today it is often fragmented and divided.

25:10

Modern Life Meets Ancient Wisdom

Razeen concludes by exploring how modernization can open up opportunities for spiritual reform and discusses the future relevance of Buddhism in Asia.

Useful links

https://x.com/razeensally?lang=en

https://ecipe.org/person/razeen-sally/

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1157196.Razeen_Sally

https://www.britannica.com/topic/Buddhism

https://www.dhamma.org/en-US/index

Don’t miss out

We’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email:

tanktalksasia@asiaworks.com

And don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia.

Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.

Anila traces her journey, from growing up in Pakistan to carving out a path in the US art world, reflecting on her iconic installations, the obstacles she has navigated along the way and why she believes the arts are key to a more humane future.

Featured Voices

Host: Manisha Tank

Guest: Anila Quayyum Agha, Award-winning Artist

Key takeaways

1. Anila believes that art actively creates and shapes how we see ourselves and each other.
2. She says cultural identity shouldn’t be diluted to fit Euro-Western artistic frameworks.
3. Anila firmly believes that craft and labor-intensive practices, often associated with women, deserve the same recognition as fine art.
4. She sees the arts and humanities as essential to building empathy and critical thinking in society.

Chapter heads

00:30

The Foundation of Civilization?

Manisha introduces Anila by reflecting on how art defines humanity, memory, and shared meaning across generations.

02:03

Threads of Identity

Anila reflects on the key concepts that have shaped her work over the past three decades.

03:38

Identity, Culture and Refusing to Criticize Home

She discusses how she resisted pressure to disparage her own culture and focused on creating work that’s inclusive.

05:03

The Iconic Cube Installation

She explains how her award-winning cube installations explore light, space and movement, and also involve the audience.

09:13

Expectation and Expression

Anila talks about being a young woman in Pakistan and how she had to navigate cultural expectations as she worked to discover her artistic voice.

11:08

Craft Versus Fine Art

Anila challenges thinking that devalues craft, textiles and feminine labor within the art world.

11:53

Staying True to Herself

She says she has worked hard as a multidisciplinary artist to remain honest to herself, and varies her materials depending on the message she is trying to convey.

16:49

Inequality in the Art World

Anila talks about inequalities in the arts and explains why she believes that, without intervention, real equality may take centuries to achieve.

20:21

Color as Culture and Survival

She says she uses bold colors to express her culture and to rebel against muted Western aesthetics.

23:12

Why the Arts Make Us Human

Anila urges young people to embrace the arts to cultivate empathy, problem-solving and humanity.

Useful links

https://www.anilaagha.com/news

https://www.sundaramtagore.com/exhibitions/anila-quayyum-agha

https://www.pem.org/exhibitions/anila-quayyum-agha-all-the-flowers-are-for-me

https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/term/BIOG225930

https://www.nca.edu.pk/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Louise_Bourgeois

https://artsg.com/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lj0TnkAqsts

Don’t miss out

We’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email:

tanktalksasia@asiaworks.com

And don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia.

Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production and the views and opinions shared by our guests are their own.

Leo talks truthfully about the loneliness of executive decision-making and gives his views on the rise of Asia, US politics under Donald Trump, and how small nations like Ireland and Singapore can navigate great-power competition.

Featured Voices

Host: Manisha Tank

Guest: Leo Varadkar, Former Taoiseach of Ireland, Global Advisor at Penta Group, Senior Fellow at Harvard Kennedy School, Author of Speaking My Mind

Key takeaways

1. Leo reflects on how taking leadership decisions at the highest level can be lonely, despite being surrounded by people.
2. He says the global order is shifting eastward, but that big-power rivalry will still shape how much countries will actually work together.
3. Leo suggests that small nations, like Ireland and Singapore, have benefited from globalization but he expects the coming decades to be less favorable for them.
4. He believes the US president sets the global standard for what other leaders view as acceptable behavior.
5. Leo emphasizes the need to get AI regulations and interventions right, sooner rather than later.

Chapter heads

01:18 Life After Power

Leo begins by reflecting on his move away from frontline politics and how he’s now enjoying the freedom of a portfolio career.

04:36 Politics in the DNA

Leo says a visit to his father’s hometown in India revealed a family history of political activism that he hadn’t previously fully understood.

07:05 Seize the Moment

He advises new leaders to take difficult and unpopular decisions early, while their political mandate is strongest.

09:10 The Loneliness of Leadership

He points out that leaders may be surrounded by lots of people but, when it comes down to it, responsibility rests on their shoulders alone.

11:10 A Changing World Order?

Leo talks about global fractures but argues it’s too early to declare the end of Western democratic leadership.

12:40 Asia’s Long-Term Rise

He believes economic gravity is shifting east and that Asia and Africa have the power to reshape global growth and influence.

14:19 Understanding Donald Trump

Leo offers his personal take on Donald Trump, noting both his intelligence and charisma, as well as his gaps in knowledge.

16:10 Democratic Norms Under Pressure

He points out that the US president’s behavior can set the tone for how other world leaders behave and act.

18:15 The Spying Game

Leo talks about how some countries use intelligence and espionage to gain strategic leverage over others.

20:38 Small States, Big Similarities

He draws parallels between Ireland and Singapore and discusses how they navigate their place among competing global powers.

24:15 Regulating the Unknown

Leo gives his views on the difficulties of AI and why he thinks it’s important to get the rules and regulations right.

25:40 A Shelf Memento

He finishes the interview by giving Tank Talks Asia a book that explores Irish influence on Singapore’s history.

Useful links

https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/470040/speaking-my-mind-by-varadkar-leo/9781844886937

https://pentagroup.com/

https://www.hks.harvard.edu/

Mark Carney's Davos speech

https://www.jaipurliteraturefestival.org/

https://rosemarylim.com/

Sources

RTÉ News

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3nmYG_y9Zo

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hNmm5OLBx8c

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fsVCOkRgnZ0

Channel 4 News

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AsPqFU3n_vM

Sinead Harper

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xy9so3k9z-E

Ronan McGreevy

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MwjXNIDVI90

Don’t miss out

We’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email:

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And don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia.

Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.

They discuss the opportunity gap affecting young people today, the transformative potential of AI in learning, and what parents, schools and businesses can do to prepare the next generation for the future of work.

Featured Voices

Host: Manisha Tank

Guest: Billy Naveed, Founder & Chairman, Young Founders School

Key takeaways

1. Billy says that millions of young people across Asia start life far behind their peers, despite having equal or greater potential.
2. He discusses how the education system is optimised for exams, not employability, and that by their mid-teens, many students have had their creativity, risk-taking, and entrepreneurial spirit stifled.
3. Billy believes that AI isn’t a threat and when used correctly, it could help level the playing field for underprivileged youth.
4. For him, hunger, curiosity, resilience, and creative thinking matter more than degrees or grades.
5. Billy argues that preparing children for the future of work requires collective action from parents, schools, and corporates.

Chapter heads

01:30

Growing Up in Post-Industrial Britain

Billy reflects on his childhood in Burnley, where there was high unemployment and crime rates due to the decline of the manufacturing sector in the North of England.

03:00

The Accidental Beginning of a Coding Career

A gift from his father introduced Billy to coding and inspired a lifelong passion for technology.

He talks about how he began to sell his gaming creations to his classmates.

04:57

Becoming a 14-Year-Old Tech Entrepreneur

By building one of the world’s most visited visual basic forums, Billy says he unknowingly launched his first remote business.

06:35

Being Judged by Skills, Not Age

Billy explains how working on a major engineering project in his early teens taught him the value of merit-based work and influenced his approach to education and hiring.

08:34

Betting on Asia’s Rise

Billy talks about his move from the UK to Hong Kong, and how he was drawn by Asia’s economic momentum and energy.

09:50

The Spark Behind Young Founders School

He shares that by visiting underprivileged Hong Kong schools he was exposed to the gap between creativity and exam-driven education.

15:08

What Young Founders School Actually Does

Billy outlines YFS’s model and how its courses, mentorship, and virtual internships are designed to close this opportunity gap.

17:15

AI as a Copilot, Not a Crutch

He says YFS uses AI to scale impact, teach critical thinking and empower students, rather than to replace human creativity.

21:30

A Call to Action for Corporates and Educators

Billy believes that companies, governments, and parents must rethink how young people are being prepared for an AI-driven future of work.

25:35

Fire in the Belly

He wraps up by sharing YFS’s mission to reach one-million students by the 2030s and gifts a symbolic pin badge to Tank Talks Asia.

Useful links

https://www.youngfoundersschool.com/

https://riseconf.com/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burnley

https://warwick.ac.uk/

Don’t miss out

We’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email:

tanktalksasia@asiaworks.com

And don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia.

Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.

Gene talks about growing up Asian-American, becoming a Green Beret, negotiating with terrorists, and ultimately finding purpose as the founder of Blackpanda.

Featured Voices

Host: Manisha Tank

Guest: Gene Yu, Founder & CEO, Blackpanda

Key takeaways

1. Gene discusses how cultural expectations can drive ambition, but can also leave lasting emotional scars.
2. He suggests elite performance can often conceal a deep internal struggle.
3. Gene says failure can be a powerful force for redirection.
4. He believes that how we respond in a crisis reveals who we really are and what we have the potential to become.
5. Gene demonstrates that reinvention is possible at any stage of life.

Chapter heads

00:00

An Extraordinary Life

Manisha introduces Gene and talks about how his career has spanned elite military service to cybersecurity leadership.

02:25

Growing Up Asian in White America

Gene and Manisha talk about how cultural dislocation shaped Gene’s early identity and self-perception.

04:50

Love Through Performance

Gene says that achievement became an emotional crutch and explains the cost of that mindset.

05:56

Losing Himself

He believes military life stripped away his identity before rebuilding him from scratch.

07:10

Fighting for Respect

He tried to assert himself by using physical dominance and nearly paid the ultimate price.

09:05

Becoming a Green Beret

Gene talks about what post-9/11 service meant to him and how he rose through the ranks.

12:45

Leaving the Military and a Loss of Purpose

He speaks about the struggle of stepping away from a life defined by mission and meaning.

17:00

When Everything Changed

How one phone call and a high-stakes rescue reshaped Gene’s career, his life, and his view of the world.

21:00

From Crisis to Cybersecurity

Gene explains what was behind the creation of Asia’s first cyber crisis response company.

26:10

Why Singapore Stuck

He shares how career opportunities and stability in Singapore turned a temporary move into a permanent home.

Useful links

https://www.blackpanda.com/

https://www.goarmy.com/careers-and-jobs/specialty-careers/special-ops/special-forces

https://www.americanspecialops.com/special-forces/cif/

https://www.palantir.com/

https://www.jhu.edu/

https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/article/1387187/abducted-taiwanese-woman-evelyn-chang-found-southern-philippines

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-40129016

Don’t miss out

We’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email:

tanktalksasia@asiaworks.com

And don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia.

Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.

Sam talks about partition, identity and forgotten geographies, sharing some insights on key historical figures. And he even discusses what he may write about next.

Featured Voices

Host: Manisha Tank

Guest: Sam Dalrymple, Author and Historian

Key takeaways

1. Sam explains how the British Empire in India was far larger than commonly believed, stretching from Yemen to Burma.
2. He talks about how partition was chaotic, rushed, and poorly planned, rather than the result of a grand imperial design.
3. Sam also explores how key historical figures like Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Pandit Nehru were far more complex than their modern portrayals suggest.
4. He believes that understanding history is key to gaining clarity on present-day conflicts.

Chapter heads

00:00

A Book That Reframes Asia

Manisha introduces Sam and talks about how Shattered Lands challenges how we understand modern Asia.

02:04

“Which Partition?”

Sam references a conversation he had that led him to consider the many partitions that have helped shape Asia into what it is today.

03:45

The True Size of British India

From Burma to the Persian Gulf, Sam explains how much of Asia was once governed from Delhi, and why this is often forgotten.

06:45

The Archives That Changed Everything

He talks about how newly digitised records uncover hidden turning points in history, including how the Gulf nearly became part of India.

08:20

Chaos Over Conspiracy

Sam explains how partition was executed in just 77 days, and shares some insights on how unprepared and overwhelmed colonial authorities really were at the time.

11:10

Rethinking Muhammad Ali Jinnah

He goes on to talk about how studying the founding father of Pakistan revealed a far more complex figure than he expected.

14:30

Pandit Nehru’s Turning Point

Sam also details how a harrowing encounter following the Amritsar massacre became a defining moment in India’s push for independence.

17:00

Burma: From Global Hub to Conflict Zone

Sam and Manisha talk about how Burma was once the “Singapore of its time,” and how Rangoon’s fall can help explain Myanmar’s modern struggles.

22:05

Project Dastaan: Reconnecting Across Partition

Sam explains how a university idea became a cross-border VR project, aimed at reconnecting communities divided since 1947.

24:05

Stories Beneath the Surface

Manisha talks to Sam about how he uses his travel writing as a gateway to explore history and culture more deeply.

26:00

Identity and What’s Next

Sam reflects on his mixed identity and what he hopes to explore next.

Useful links

https://samdalrymple.com/shattered-lands

https://projectdastaan.org/

https://samdalrymple.com/architectural-digest-1

https://www.cntraveller.com/article/gwalior-madhya-pradesh-india

https://www.cntraveller.in/story/tracing-tansens-musical-legacy-in-gwalior/

Don’t miss out

We’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email:

tanktalksasia@asiaworks.com

And don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia.

Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.

Lu also shares her perspective on what’s currently shaping innovation and venture capital, and explains why she believes AI is reshaping healthcare, space tech and the global economy.

Featured Voices

Host: Manisha Tank

Guest: Lu Zhang, Founder & Managing Partner, Fusion Fund

Key takeaways

1. Lu believes curiosity is key to success and often matters more than age, credentials, or background.
2. She feels Silicon Valley remains a global tech leader due to its unique combination of talent, capital, and appetite for risk.
3. Lu notes that the next phase of AI will focus on practicality, with systems that are cheaper, more efficient, privacy-conscious, and ready for real-world use.
4. In her opinion, AI has the potential to transform both healthcare and space tech.
5. According to Lu, leaning into the unknown during periods of uncertainty and change can lead to the biggest rewards.

Chapter heads

00:00 - The AI Moment

Manisha introduces Lu and sets the scene on why AI investment, innovation, and global attention are accelerating at an unprecedented pace.

01:59 - Roots of Curiosity

Lu reflects on her upbringing, early imagination, and how her background shaped her appetite for innovation.

05:08 - From Technologist to Entrepreneur

She talks about how a passion for deep tech led her to launch, scale, and exit her first company in her early twenties.

06:38 - Building Fusion Fund

Lu shares her journey from starting a venture fund and earning credibility, to scaling up from being a solo GP to a global platform.

10:57 - Why Silicon Valley Still Wins

She takes a candid look at what makes Silicon Valley’s ecosystem uniquely powerful for startups, investors, and exits.

15:30 - Inside the AI Investment Boom

Lu talks about capital flooding into AI and causing expectations to rise across the market.

16:40 - AI in Healthcare: Personalised and Preventative

Lu discusses how AI is transforming diagnostics, digital therapeutics, and the future of treatment.

18:05 - Who Owns Your Data?

Lu and Manisha talk about the hidden cost of AI tools and why data ownership and privacy will redefine business models.

19:15 - Space Tech Meets AI

Lu believes falling launch costs, satellite data, and AI-powered space technology could reshape life on Earth.

21:35 - What Comes Next

She touches on navigating bubbles, uncertainty, and opportunity and shares her advice for young innovators trying to define their future.

Useful links

https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/materials-science/carbon-nanotube

https://www.britannica.com/place/Inner-Mongolia

https://www.nvidia.com/en-gb/startups

Coldplay’s “Adventure Of A Lifetime”

Don’t miss out

We’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email:

tanktalksasia@asiaworks.com

And don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia.

Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.

He tells us how he’s spending his “retirement” and also discusses everything from Gen-Z challenges and climate realities to regional geopolitics.

Featured Voices

Host: Manisha Tank

Guest: Piyush Gupta

Key takeaways

1. Piyush believes India’s moment is here but it’s complex. He sees the country as one of the world’s biggest long-term opportunities, but notes it requires expertise, patience, and cultural understanding.
2. He also notes that Southeast Asia’s real short-term crisis isn’t climate. It’s jobs and youth unemployment, as AI reshapes the workforce.
3. Piyush urges Gen Z to build skills and take smart risks, and embrace entrepreneurship as traditional jobs shift or disappear.
4. Despite rising US–China tensions, he believes a fully bipolar world is unlikely and that Asia will navigate relationships “issue by issue.”
5. Piyush talks about the lessons learnt from transforming DBS, and that the company’s leap from a “traditional bank” to a global digital leader, hinged on culture, technology, and picking the right bets.

Chapter heads

01:00 - A New Chapter for Piyush Gupta

How the former DBS CEO is embracing a “retirement” filled with influential roles across business, education, and nature.

04:40 - Why India Matters More Than Ever

Piyush explains why India’s scale, reforms, and digital leap make it a defining opportunity for East Asia.

06:20 - Climate Stress vs. Youth Job Crisis

A look at why jobs—and not climate—could dominate Asia’s agenda in the next decade.

08:30 - Advice for Gen Z

Piyush urges young people to build broad skills and embrace entrepreneurship.

13:20 - Geopolitics in Asia: Navigating the “New Normal”

He argues that countries won’t have to pick sides, predicting an interconnected global order.

16:40 - Lessons from Transforming DBS

Piyush reflects on key tech bets, cultural shifts, and the leadership priorities that helped reshape the bank.

21:20 - Measuring Success

Piyush shares his view on what success really means.

22:50 - Singapore’s Rise as a Financial Powerhouse

He discusses how Singapore became an unlikely global finance hub—and what it needs to thrive in the future.

25:00 - The ‘Real Piyush’ Meme and Handling Global Fame

Piyush explains the story behind an identity mix-up that went viral.

26:45 - Staying Grounded

Piyush believes in living without regrets and talks about how old friends keep him humble.

29:30 - Parting Wisdom & A Symbolic Gift

He shares his grounding rituals, passions, and the story behind the DBS House.

Useful links

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/dbs-bank_after-15-years-with-dbs-today-marked-piyush-activity-7311312452120391680-d5e3/

https://lkyspp.nus.edu.sg/ips/research/s-r-nathan-fellowship-for-the-study-of-singapore

https://www.straitstimes.com/business/temasek-appoints-ex-dbs-chief-piyush-gupta-as-its-chairman-for-india

Don’t miss out

We’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email:

tanktalksasia@asiaworks.com

And don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia.

Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.

Jeep shares her remarkable journey from growing up in Bangkok, to earning her stripes at the World Bank, and launching the world’s first Android tablet at Intel, before ultimately founding a VC firm focused on both deep-tech innovation and real impact across Southeast Asia.

Jeep opens up about resilience, failure, identity, the challenges facing young entrepreneurs, the future of climate tech, and her mission to unlock Southeast Asia’s full potential in the AI age.

Featured Voices

Host: Manisha Tank

Guest: Jeep Kline, Managing Partner & Founder, Raisewell Ventures

Key takeaways

1. Jeep believes that growing up through the 1997 Asian Financial Crisis, combined with years of never winning anything as a competitive swimmer, helped teach her how to adapt and move on after failure.
2. A revelatory experience in Tanzania made Jeep realize that technology, and not just policy, is key to improving lives. This realization resulted in her pivoting from economics to tech.
3. At Intel, Jeep helped launch the world’s first Android tablet, motivated by a belief that powerful technology should be affordable and accessible across emerging markets.
4. Raisewell is Jeep’s fourth fund and the one closest to her mission: backing founders tackling massive global problems in climate, AI, healthcare, and hard tech.
5. Jeep talks about how women in Venture Capital can be stereotyped and how this has inspired her to double down on deep tech.

Chapter heads

00:00 – Welcome & Introduction

Manisha introduces Jeep Kline and her trailblazing role as a Thai-born Silicon Valley VC.

01:10 – Growing Up in Bangkok

Jeep talks about how her education and cultural background have shaped her outlook.

03:05 – Language Barriers

Jeep recounts helping teach herself English by listening to news programs.

04:55 – Living Through the Asian Financial Crisis

How failure, family hardship, and resilience have helped form Jeep’s worldview.

06:10 – A Calling to Economics

Why the financial crisis pushed Jeep to study economics.

10:10 – Hustling Her Way Into the World Bank

How cold calling 50 economists paid off for Jeep.

11:35 – Seeing Technology’s Power in Tanzania

The moment Jeep realized tech is key to improving the lives of millions.

13:50 – Pivot to Tech: UC Berkeley & Intel

Her transition from economics to tech, earning her MBA, and joining Intel.

15:30 – Launching the First Android Tablet

Why affordability mattered so much to Jeep.

18:05 – Early Startup Lessons

How Jeep learnt to understand founder–VC dynamics.

20:30 – Founding Raisewell Ventures

Why Jeep focuses on high-return, high-impact deep tech.

22:00 – What She Looks for in Founders

Jeep rates authenticity, clarity and intellectual honesty.

23:20 - Quick Fire Questions

Jeeps answers questions about Ray Dalio, Zohran Mamdani and the K shaped economy.

26:30 – The Future of Climate Tech

Jeep talks about why now, not later, is the time to invest heavily.

28:45 – Advice to Young Southeast Asian Entrepreneurs

Jeep says don’t give up and think globally.

29:50 – Jeep’s Supply–Demand Graph Memento

Jeep gifts the studio her version of the “perfect” economics graph.

31:20 – Closing Remarks

Jeep promises to return—maybe before Raisewell Ventures hits $100M.

Useful links

Chulalongkorn University

The World Bank

Ann Arbor

Berkeley Haas

Don’t miss out

We’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email:

tanktalksasia@asiaworks.com

And don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia.

Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.

Joining Manisha are two expert voices — Curtis Chin, former US Ambassador to the Asian Development Bank, and Sam Olsen, geopolitical strategist and author of States of Play — to explore the state of US-China relations, and what these photo ops actually mean for Asia, the global chip race and the future world order.

Featured Voices

Host:

• Manisha Tank

Guests:

• Curtis S. Chin, Chair, Senior Fellows; Senior Advisor, Global Markets, Milken Institute • Sam Olsen, Geopolitical strategist, Chief Analyst at Sibylline

Key takeaways

Despite shifting policies and unpredictability, the fact that a US President physically showed up in the region carries huge symbolic weight.

Most ASEAN nations want to avoid choosing sides between the US and China.

The outcome of the “fourth industrial revolution” and the AI race will heavily influence regional alliances.

If Taiwan continues to sit at the heart of advanced chipmaking, it could become an even more critical strategic target.

While the West talks tariffs, local businesses in countries like Thailand and Vietnam fear being flooded by low-cost Chinese products.

Super typhoons in the Philippines and worsening disasters across Asia remind leaders that existential climate threats may ultimately force collaboration that geopolitical rivalries cannot.

AI-driven advances in nuclear fusion, modular reactors and climate tech could offer a realistic pathway to abundant clean energy — but only if benefits are shared across geopolitical blocs.

Chapter heads

00:06 - Setting the Scene: Two Photo Ops, One Global Story

2:24 - Trump in Asia: Why Showing Up Still Matters

7:30 - US/Japan & US/Korea: Renewed Alliances on Display

9:40 - Where does the US/ China Geopolitical Relationship Stand Now?

11:40 - Nvidia, Blackwell Chips and China’s Tech Catch-Up

14:00 - Economic Fallout: Tariffs, Flooded Markets & Southeast Asian Anxiety

19:00 - Geopolitical ‘Great Split’: Red vs. Blue Economies

21:43 - Climate Crises as a Geostrategic Equalizer

24:58 - AI, Energy Innovation & Reasons for Optimism

26:34 - Closing Thoughts

Don’t miss out

We’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email:

tanktalksasia@asiaworks.com

And don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia.

Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.

In this episode of Tank Talks Asia, Manisha Tank sits down with YolanDa Brown, the UK’s premier female saxophonist, during her debut Asia tour. From sold-out performances in Tokyo and Singapore to her deep passion for music education and mental health advocacy, YolanDa shares how music can be a force for change, connection, and joy.

She discusses everything from growing up in a Jamaican-British household and earning an OBE from King Charles, to the global rise of K-Pop — and even how she can solve a Rubik’s Cube in just three minutes.

Featured Voices

Host: Manisha Tank

Guest: YolanDa Brown OBE

Key takeaways from YolanDa

1. YolanDa highlights how musical collaboration can bring cultures together and technology can empower artists everywhere to build audiences beyond borders.
2. YolanDa notes the importance of nurturing creativity, confidence, and emotional wellbeing in the next generation, with music offering a safe outlet for emotions and connections.
3. From the Commonwealth to K-Pop, YolanDa champions collaboration over division and community over anger.
4. She believes in being “unapologetically yourself.”

Chapter heads

0:00 - Welcome to Tank Talks Asia

Manisha introduces the show and this episode’s featured guest, YolanDa Brown.

1:02 - Jazz, Reggae & Asia

YolanDa discusses performing in Tokyo and Singapore.

2:14 - A Musical Homecoming with Yamaha

YolanDa talks about working with Yamaha.

3:25 - Roots & Upbringing

How family, culture, and confidence have helped to shape YolanDa’s outlook.

5:01 - Honored by the King

YolanDa tells us about receiving her OBE and what it truly means.

7:39 - Reframing the Commonwealth

A discussion about how history can be used as a platform for change and unity.

9:34 - Championing Children’s Mental Health

YolanDa talks about her Band Jam TV show and Sesame Street collaborations with Elmo.

13:18 - The Healing Power of Music

YolanDa shares a personal story about how music can be incredibly emotional.

14:56 - Making Music Joyful

YolanDa talks about teaching improvisation and how to find the heart in music performances.

16:23 - The Global Language of Jazz

Manisha and YolanDa chat about how jazz is having a renaissance across cultures.

16:50 - K-Pop, Authenticity & Generational Connection

They go on to discuss the K-Pop phenomenon.

19:41 - India, Bollywood & Beyond

YolanDa shares her thoughts on what drives global music success.

22:05 - Breaking Barriers in the Industry

She also talks about the power of collaboration, independent artists and the importance of “finding your tribe”.

25:02 - Dreaming Big in Asia

YolanDa discusses future tour plans and potential collaborations.

26:44 - Fun & Quirky Facts

YolanDa shares some light-hearted facts with Manisha.

28:29 - Closing Thoughts

Manisha and YolanDa talk about amplifying Asia’s creative voice.

Don’t miss out

We’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email:

tanktalksasia@asiaworks.com

And don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia.

Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production

In this very first episode of Tank Talks Asia, Manisha Tank talks to some of the region’s most influential movers and shakers at the Milken Institute Asia Summit in Singapore.

TTA Producer and Milken insider Yeen Chong joins her to offer insights from an event that brings together billion-dollar investors, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and changemakers who are all helping to shape the future of Asia.

Featuring insights from leaders including Curtis Chin, Pandu Sjahrir, Lu Zhang, Steven Ciobo, Chinta Bhagat and more, this episode captures the optimism, urgency, and cultural energy driving what many believe is Asia’s decade.

Manisha and Yeen ask the question why Asia, and why now?

Featured Voices

Host: Manisha Tank

Producer and Co-host: Yeen Chong, Head of Communications, Milken Institute Asia

Voices from the Milken Institute Asia Summit:

1. Curtis S. Chin, Chair, Senior Fellows; Senior Advisor, Global Markets, Milken Institute; featured at 5:30 and 22:23
2. Pandu Sjahrir, Chief Investment Officer, Danantara Indonesia; featured at 7:41 and 22:27
3. Miro Lu, Founder & Managing Director, Perspective Media; featured at 9:25
4. Lu Zhang, Founder & Managing Partner, Fusion Fund; featured at 11:18 and 22:17
5. Chinta Bhagat, Managing Partner, Aries Holdings; featured at 13:39
6. Steven Okun, Founder & CEO, APAC Advisors; featured at 15:14 and 22:05
7. Steven Ciobo, Milken Institute Asia Fellow, Former Australian Minister of Trade, Tourism & Investment, & Minister for Defence Industry; featured at 16:11
8. Billy Naveed, Founder & Chairman, Young Founders School; featured at 17:48
9. Alicia Ng, VP, Head of R&D, Wider Asia, Haleon; featured at 19:34
10. Laura Entwistle, Director of Strategic Partnerships; Unheard; featured at 20:58

Key takeaways from our guests

1. Asia is no longer emerging — it’s driving global opportunity.
2. The region’s diversity is its strength, not a challenge.
3. Tech, especially AI, is reshaping every industry from China to Indonesia.
4. Immigrant identity is a powerful entrepreneurial fuel.
5. Geopolitical tensions require resilience, not fear.
6. Growth must be balanced with awareness of ethical and societal issues.
7. Culture, community, and family remain central to Asia’s identity.

Don’t miss out

We’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email: tanktalksasia@asiaworks.com

And don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia.

Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production

Additional credit

The team would like to extend their thanks to artist, Tay Bak Chiang, whose painting appears behind Manisha and guests in all clips filmed at the Milken Institute Asia Summit.