EP.IC - Edric Poon In Company

Hosted by Edric Poon

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May 2026

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Edric Poon In Company (EP.IC) - is the podcast that "humanizes" the role of a CxO and brings the stories of Entrepreneurs and Professionals in Asia to you! Listen to their stories of dedication, struggles and their unique values that got them to where they are now. #business #people #stories #Singapore #Inspiration #Motivation #kaleoscopic #Communications #podcast #production

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60 recent

June 15, 202641 min

EP.IC083 - Is Fractional Leadership the Future of Hiring? | Reza Behnam

What if you could test a hire before fully committing? What if the smartest move wasn't to hire full-time at all?Meet Reza Behnam, founder of Fractional First and serial entrepreneur. In this episode of the EP.IC podcast, we talk about a smarter way to build your leadership team. Reza moved from Yahoo Southeast Asia to building and exiting his own startups, and somewhere along the way he spotted a problem most business owners don't even realise they have.Senior leaders with decades of experience have nowhere to go. And CEOs are making their biggest hiring calls with almost no real data. Sound familiar?What you'll get in this episode:- What fractional leadership actually is (hint: it's not consulting, it's not freelancing)How to test a leader before you fully bring them on boardWhy the most expensive hiring mistake isn't the salary, it's the time lostHow AI and real human judgement can work together to match the right leader to the right companyWhat to do if you're experienced, talented, and wondering what comes next in your careerTimestamps:0:00 Intro and what is fractional leadership?2:10 Reza's background, Yahoo, startups, and Singapore6:00 The problem with how leaders hire leaders12:00 How Fractional First works and why it's not a platform18:00 Try before you buy, fractional as a validation layer25:00 Time to value and why fractionals can actually save you money32:00 The second arc of your career38:00 Inner work, yoga philosophy and leadership grounding41:00 EP.IC QuestionnaireConnect with Reza:LinkedIn: Reza BehnamEmail: reza@fractionalfirst.comWebsite: fractionalfirst.comProduced by: Kaleoscopic Communications Pte Ltd | www.kaleoscopic.comFilmed at: Poddster SingaporeHost: Edric Poon (edric@kaleoscopic.com)Follow the EPIC Podcast for new episodes every season on how to build a better business, from leadership and hiring to talent, culture, and everything in between.If this episode made you think differently about how you hire or how you show up as a leader, share it with someone who needs to hear it.

May 27, 2026Episode 8225 min

EP.IC082 - Engineering Serendipity: AI To Transform your Event Experience | Errol Lim, JUBLIA AI

Are event organizers leaving money and data on the table? In this episode of the EP.IC Podcast, host Edric sits down with Errol Lim, COO and Co-Founder of Jublia AI, to unpack how the events industry is evolving from gut-feel networking to data-driven, AI-powered engagement.Errol shares the story behind founding Jublia in 2012, born from a simple observation in Stockholm: networking at events was still left to chance. Over a decade later, Jublia AI is redefining how attendees connect, how sponsors prove ROI, and how organizers unlock the gold mine of intent datasitting right under their noses.Whether you're an event organizer, exhibitor, or sponsor, this episode is packed with actionable insights on how to stop selling square meters and start engineering meaningful business outcomes.timestamps(00:00) Intro(01:54) What is Jublia AI?(05:23) The founding story(08:21) Why organizers don't act on their data(10:51) Intent data, the holy grail(14:18) The "hit list" model(17:41) The doorman analogy(19:06) Face-to-face is irreplaceable(20:53) What attendees should demand(22:27) Advice for event organizers(23:40) Connect with Errol and Jublia AIRemember to subscribe.Produced by Kaleoscopic Communications

May 4, 202638 min

EP.IC081 - Franchising Secrets for Local and Regional Success | Hsien Naidu

Franchising in Asia is one of the fastest ways to scale your brand—but only if done right. In this new podcast episode, Franchise Growth Strategist—Hsien Naidu from Astreem Consulting, shares key insights from over 20 years in the industry, covering what franchisors must get right before expanding into Asia. From brand control and operational consistency to franchisee selection, training, and long-term growth strategies, this episode breaks down the fundamentals behind successful regional expansion. 🚀 Looking to expand your brand in Asia? Meet your next franchisee, licensee, or regional partner at Franchising & Licensing Asia (FLAsia) 2026—where brands, investors, and business partners connect to unlock real growth opportunities. 👉 Secure your booth or learn more: https://franchiselicenseasia.com/appl...📍 About FLAsia 2026Franchising & Licensing Asia (FLAsia) is Asia's leading marketplace for discovering franchising and licensing opportunities. Now in its 21st edition, FLAsia 2026 will bring together over 250 global brands, innovative business concepts, and dynamic exhibitors from across the region.When: 13 – 15 August 2026Venue: Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre, Hall A & B SingaporeVideo brought to you by ‪@epicpodcasting‬ x FLAsia 2026

April 17, 202622 min

EP.IC Events - NOWExpo 2026 - Dedicated to creating pathways for the Nursing Ecosystem

EP.IC Events - Featuring upcoming Trade Exhibitions and Conferences from the regionNOW Expo Asia 2026: The First Nursing Ecosystem Expo in Manila (Free Registration) In this episode of EP.IC Events - we meet Christine Lasig of the NOW Expo Asia 2026, a first-of-its-kind trade exhibition and platform for the entire nursing ecosystem, happening June 26–27, 2026 at SM Megamall Trade Hall 1 in Manila. The expo aims to solve the problem of fragmented and often unreliable information that leaves nurses vulnerable to scams and poor decisions by bringing credible, verified stakeholders together in one place. Registration is free and open not only to registered nurses but also nursing students and families. This is a space to explore pathways, ask questions directly, and build connections across local and international opportunities, with an on-floor theater highlighting nursing specializations and sponsor speaking slots, plus managed global booth options for overseas exhibitors.Timestamps00:00 Intro00:50 Overview01:56 Meet Christine Lasig02:25 The Problem To Solve04:38 Not A Job Fair05:50 Free For Everyone06:45 Who’s In The Ecosystem09:22 Success Metrics13:43 Global Booth Package16:02 On Floor Theater17:14 Questions Nurses Ask19:41 Yearly Event Vision21:06 How To Learn More21:29 Closing Remarks

February 17, 202645 min

EP.IC080 - Kelvin Tjia | 3Degrees.app

Episode OverviewKelvin Tjia is the founder of 3Degrees - a TikTok-style social impact platform that helps people discover charitable causes through immersive short videos. He shares insights about startup challenges, overcoming donor fatigue in the philanthropic space and the need to change the way social impact is seen and done.Connect with KelvinFor more, visit https://www.3degrees.app/Connect with Kelvin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelvin-tjia/Need help with your podcast or events?If you'd like to setup your own podcast, or seek a consult, reach out to us at edric@kaleoscopic.com We'll support your podcast journey from end to end.We offer podcast coaching, workshops and even hosting services for your events and podcasts!www.kaleoscopic.comKey Timestamps0:00 - 0:17 - Opening: The reality of startup life - you don't always get what you want0:42 - 2:31 - Introduction to Three Degrees and the social impact focus3:44 - 4:55 - COVID-19 origins and the difficult journey5:07 - 5:53 - Launching too soon: lessons learned6:02 - 6:63 - The four miracles of startup success8:57 - 9:50 - Steve Jobs wisdom: Success is saying no 99% of the time12:20 - 13:02 - Why a digital platform instead of building schools?13:56 - 14:42 - Starting from scratch16:41 - 17:17 - Previous ventures: Hawaii bike sharing company20:01 - 20:26 - Work-life balance: Missing 3 World Cups23:28 - 24:12 - Donor fatigue: The challenge of sad stories25:00 - 25:38 - Three Degrees approach: Educational and inspirational content26:45 - 27:28 - Monetization and transparency in social impact28:48 - 29:28 - Rewarding those who contribute to society31:35 - 32:02 - Corporate partnerships: Understanding unrestricted funds34:05 - 34:26 - Ambassador program in development36:22 - 36:50 - The Four T's: Time, Treasure, Talent, and Ties38:27 - 45:10 - EP.IC Questionnaire

December 8, 202513 min

A Podcaster/Small Business Owner's Year in Review

Hi everyone, I wanted to share a heartfelt review of 2025, divided into three chapters: Chapter: 1: My journey as a podcasterAs a podcaster, I've heard so many founder and leadership stories, but something about impact-driven content drew my attention - much more than before. Why? Simply because I can finally say that I am in a position to share these stories that can make an impact. In turn, this also led to unexpected opportunities and reaffirmed the value of our small but engaged audience.Chapter 2: Pivots as a small business ownerLong ago, Haoming Lee shared some sage advice about branding - "If no one knows you, you can rebrand in any way you want." This meant that I didn't need to fit any type of mould or business structure. I could pivot, and I did. From 100% podcast-related efforts, to talent-based effort. I'm not just producing podcasts - I'm hosting events, emceeing Gala dinners, launches and even moderating panel sessions!Chapter 3: Growth as a human being. Finally, on a personal note, embracing compassion and patience has transformed my approach to life and work. I no longer feel guilty for not working 8-10 hours a day. I am instead, grateful for this privilege, and will continue to see how I can help others in their work, businesses and lives.Thank you for your continued support. Here's to an impactful 2026. Keep listening and moving forward.

November 24, 202538 min

EP.IC079 - Purpose Driven Tourism | Raj Kumar, IPC Group

Purpose-Driven Tourism: A Conversation with Raj KumarIPC Group: https://ipcgroup.com.sg/More about The Rotary Club Singapore: https://www.rotary.org.sg/Connect with Raj on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raj-kumar-19074552/Hosted & Produced by Edric PoonProduced by Kaleoscopic CommunicationsIn this episode of the EP.IC podcast, we speak with Raj Kumar, Managing Director of IPC Group and a board member of the Rotary Club. Raj shares his extensive experience in global travel and tourism, emphasizing how tourism can make a meaningful impact through education, community engagement, and fostering entrepreneurship. He delves into his journey of starting community-based tourism, the challenges faced by the travel industry, and the integration of technology like virtual reality to adapt and thrive amid global crises. Raj also discusses his role as an advisor to startups, his passion for mentoring youth, and how businesses, especially SMEs, can creatively leverage their resources for social good. The conversation wraps up with reflections on maintaining purpose over profit, the importance of community involvement, and Raj's aspirations for lasting impactful work.00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview01:15 Raj Kumar's Journey into Tourism02:28 Community-Based Tourism and Its Impact04:01 Corporate Involvement and Educational Programs08:24 Adapting to Challenges with Technology09:05 Expanding into Technology and Mentorship09:49 Wellness Programs and Scam Prevention16:07 Leveraging Rotary Club for Greater Impact19:56 Corporate Social Responsibility: Beyond Donations20:25 The Importance of Volunteer Hours21:09 Addressing Dementia and Loneliness in Seniors23:25 Philanthropy and Community Engagement25:24 Innovation in Philanthropy28:45 Personal Reflections and Rapid Fire Questions32:56 Final Thoughts and Contact Information#impact #edricpoonincompany #podcast #asia

October 6, 202547 min

EP.IC078 – Social Impact, Empathy, and Entrepreneurship with Maggie Dumra (Jaedals)

Episode Summary:In this episode of the EP.IC Podcast, we chat with Maggie Dumra, founder of Jaedals, a socially conscious footwear brand. Maggie shares her journey from a career in media production to building businesses that create positive social impact, including supporting women in need and giving back to communities in India and Singapore. Support Jaedals and their mission by checking out their products, following them on social media, and sharing this episode with friends who care about social impact and entrepreneurship.Chapters & Timestamps00:00 – Introduction & Overview00:54 – Meet Maggie Dumra: From Media to Social Impact01:32 – The Jaedals Story: Comfort, Style, and Doing Good02:32 – Building a Socially Conscious Business03:50 – Balancing Corporate Life, Family, and Entrepreneurship06:38 – Early Ventures: Baby Boo and Giving Back to India08:05 – COVID’s Impact and Supporting Local Women in Singapore09:16 – The Birth of Jaedals: Empowering Women Through Work10:42 – Product Introduction: Jaedals Sandals12:01 – Building a Local Production Ecosystem13:21 – Finding and Training Sewing Communities15:06 – Why Focus on Low-Income Women?16:41 – Government Support and Scaling Social Impact18:24 – Community Support and Corporate Partnerships20:19 – Wins, Rejections, and the Long Game of Social Impact22:06 – Expanding Overseas and Sustainable Collaborations24:00 – Family, Empathy, and Upbringing26:01 – Empathy vs. Business: Can You Have Both?28:34 – Lessons from Family Business and Marketing31:10 – Growing the Team and Scaling Up33:20 – Letting Go: When to Move On from a Business36:00 – Creative Ventures in Hong Kong and Melbourne40:00 – Advice for Aspiring Social Entrepreneurs41:50 – Paying It Forward42:40 – Rapid Fire Q&A: Inspirations, Routines, and Legacy47:20 – Final Shoutouts & How to Support JaedalsConnect with Maggie and support Jaedals: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maggie-dumra-922bb511/Jaedals: jaedals.comInstagram: @shopjaedalsVisit their store at Mandarin Gallery, Singapore

September 10, 202534 min

EP.IC077 - Impacting Generations through Cultivate SG | Darius Lee

Are you curious about how Singapore’s changing society will impact your family, career, or business? Darius Lee, Executive Director of Cultivate SG, joins the podcast! Listen in to a practical, eye-opening conversation about building a thriving, sustainable future for all generations! In this episode, we discuss:• How Singapore’s demographic shifts affect you and your loved ones—and what you can do about it• The real story behind nonprofits: how they operate, why transparency matters, and how you can get involved or support causes you care about• Actionable ways to strengthen family bonds, both at home and in the workplace• Fresh ideas for business owners and employees to create a more supportive, family-friendly culture• Inspiring stories and upcoming events where you can participate, learn, and make a difference• Personal routines and leadership lessons from Darius that you can apply to your own lifeWhether you’re a parent, professional, business leader, or just passionate about social impact, this episode will give you new perspectives and practical steps to help your community thrive.Timestamps• 00:00 – Highlights• 00:44 – Meet Darius Lee: What you can learn from a nonprofit leader’s journey• 01:43 – Discover Cultivate SG’s mission—and how it relates to your everyday life• 02:31 – Facing Singapore’s demographic challenges: What it means for your future and what you can do• 03:51 – How workforce changes and family pressures might affect you (and how to adapt)• 04:47 – Flexible work and parental leave: Solutions you can advocate for or implement• 06:07 – Why your attitude matters: Building a sustainable society starts with you• 07:07 – How Cultivate SG’s research can help you make informed decisions• 08:09 – Online harms and social harmony: What you need to know to protect your family• 09:12 – Rethinking success: How to define achievement beyond material wealth• 10:23 – Darius’ personal story: Find inspiration for your own leadership and impact• 12:02 – Understanding the nonprofit landscape: How you can get involved or support• 13:44 – How to spot transparency and accountability in organizations you support• 15:21 – “Grander Together” in action: How you can participate or start similar initiatives• 16:44 – Practical ways for businesses and individuals to make a difference• 18:11 – Real-life examples: How to bring family values into your workplace• 19:44 – Boosting morale and productivity: Why caring for families helps everyone• 21:23 – Building trust: What to look for in organizations you donate to or join• 23:12 – How oversight and audits protect your interests as a donor or volunteer• 24:08 – Upcoming events: Where you can learn, connect, and contribute• 25:51 – EP.IC Questionnaire• 28:00 – How to connect with Cultivate SG and take your next step

August 24, 202549 min

EP.IC076 - Low Key Philanthropy with Impact with Dani Van De Velde

Our guest: Danielle Van De Velde, is a public speaker, author, and expert in meditation and transformative practices. We discuss the concept of 'low key philanthropy' and how Dani's business practices, which include donating a substantial portion of her proceeds to over 40 causes and charities across Southeast Asia. The conversation explores the importance of businesses considering their 'double bottom line' — not just financial success but also social impact. How can small businesses start making a difference? On top of that, we also look into the tangible returns, and spiritual benefits of altruism, and practical tips for integrating philanthropy into business operations. The episode is packed with actionable advice for business owners on how to give back effectively and the importance of intention behind philanthropic efforts.For more information on Dani's work and her communities, visit : https://daniellevandevelde.com/Chapters00:00 Welcome to the Epic Podcast00:19 Introducing Our Guest01:20 The Importance of Double Bottom Lines02:15 Exploring Impact in Business04:55 Small Business Philanthropy in Action07:53 Creative Ways to Give Back12:55 Personal Journey and Altruism17:07 The Energy of Giving25:09 The Cycle of Intent and Action25:21 Impact of Small Acts of Kindness26:09 Reevaluating Life Post-COVID26:57 Finding Purpose and Meaning28:33 Supporting Small Business Owners29:26 Corporate Social Responsibility33:15 Spirituality and Altruism34:14 Quantum Entanglement and Interconnectedness39:08 The Evolution of Leadership41:57 Future Plans and Projects44:00 Epic Questionnaire48:29 Conclusion and Farewell#Business #People #Stories #podcast #Edric Poon In Company #EPICPodcast #Singapore #Asia #B2B #BusinessOwners #entrepreneur