Afleveringen
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Thank you for supporting and listening to this first season of Tell You First. If you've enjoyed the podcast, please leave a comment to let us know which episodes you liked the most, the most interesting thing you’ve learnt from us, or what topics we should cover in the future. We hope to share more with you again soon!
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We’ve all seen the headlines and history books, but what was daily life really like in Singapore during the Japanese Occupation? In this episode, we take you beyond the dates and events to reveal the gritty reality faced by ordinary people under Japanese rule. How did they make ends meet under a harsh regime? What hidden struggles did they endure? Were people treated differently depending on their race? We dive into the scars and lasting lessons this period left on a generation of Singaporeans. Join us on this journey into one of the darkest yet most defining chapters in Singapore’s history.
Credits:
Hosted and Produced by Terence Chia (@tchia) and Haresh Tilani (@hareshtilani)
Sound Engineering - Tristen Yeak (@yeakstreet)
Project Manager - Dominique Lee
Commissioning Editor - Danny Koordi
If you would like to listen to more, you can follow the podcast on the Melisten App, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.
Podcast artwork by Denise Nicole Yap, you can reach her on Instagram @deniseardenise
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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This festive season, as you gather to toss Yusheng high in the air, have you ever wondered: where did this beloved CNY dish really come from? In this episode, we dive into the tangled, messy origins of Lo Hei/Yusheng—a delicacy that sparks both unbridled joy and fierce debate among Singaporeans and Malaysians. Join us as we trace the history behind each symbolic ingredient, and get a taste of the bold, Gen Z twists that are shaking up this age-old tradition. Get ready to see Yusheng in a whole new light!
Credits:
Hosted and Produced by Terence Chia (@tchia) and Haresh Tilani (@hareshtilani)
Sound Engineering - Tristen Yeak (@yeakstreet)
Project Manager - Dominique Lee
Commissioning Editor - Danny Koordi
If you would like to listen to more, you can follow the podcast on the Melisten App, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.
Podcast artwork by Denise Nicole Yap, you can reach her on Instagram @deniseardenise
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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Everyone celebrates Chinese New Year, but how many truly understand the ancient Lunar Calendar that shapes its traditions? In this episode, we uncover the fascinating origins of the Lunar Calendar and try to answer why people still follow it today — aligning weddings, business deals, and even travel plans with its auspicious dates. Why does this thousands-year-old system still hold such sway in our modern life? Join us on this deep dive into the secrets of this UNESCO-recognized cultural treasure and the influence it has in billions of lives worldwide.
Credits:
Hosted and Produced by Terence Chia (@tchia) and Haresh Tilani (@hareshtilani)
Sound Engineering - Tristen Yeak (@yeakstreet)
Project Manager - Dominique Lee
Commissioning Editor - Danny Koordi
If you would like to listen to more, you can follow the podcast on the Melisten App, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.
Podcast artwork by Denise Nicole Yap, you can reach her on Instagram @deniseardenise
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Many may know about Singapore's difficult period during the Japanese Occupation, but how much do you know about the Sook Ching Massacre? And about how close Lee Kuan Yew was to being captured? Join us as we delve into this forgotten chapter, where a single act of courage from a humble rickshaw puller saved Lee Kuan Yew, and altered Singapore’s destiny forever.
Credits:
Hosted and Produced by Terence Chia (@tchia) and Haresh Tilani (@hareshtilani)
Sound Engineering - Tristen Yeak (@yeakstreet)
Project Manager - Dominique Lee
Commissioning Editor - Danny Koordi
If you would like to listen to more, you can follow the podcast on the Melisten App, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.
Podcast artwork by Denise Nicole Yap, you can reach her on Instagram @deniseardenise
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Did you get a ticket for any of Taylor Swift’s six Singapore concerts in 2024? While we normally focus on historical trivia and nostalgia here on Tell You First, we’re confident that Tay Tay’s record-breaking run in Singapore will be remembered and talked about for years to come. We relive the mania of that week in March with 987 DJ Ann Nicole and look at Swift’s impact on the economy, the social activities organised around the concerts, and the artistry of the shows themselves. Did we manage to get through the episode without using any Swift puns? Tune in and find out!
Credits:
Hosted and Produced by Terence Chia (@tchia) and Haresh Tilani (@hareshtilani)
Guest - Ann Nicole (@annnicoleng__)
Sound Engineering - Tristen Yeak (@yeakstreet)
Project Manager - Dominique Lee
Commissioning Editor - Danny Koordi
If you would like to listen to more, you can follow the podcast on the Melisten App, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.
Podcast artwork by Denise Nicole Yap, you can reach her on Instagram @deniseardenise
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Thank you for tuning in to Tell You First. We will be taking a couple weeks' break to recharge and will be releasing episodes again in the new year. Until then, have a Merry Christmas and happy new year!
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Singapore’s time doesn’t actually make sense! Officially GMT+8, our sunrise and sunset differ from other Southeast Asian cities on the same longitude. In this episode, we travel through time, to see how time itself has been set and standardised across the world. You may be surprised that the story of Singapore’s unusual time zone is less a question of science, and more a question of politics and economics! And then there’s the impact of all this on our sleep cycles… who’s to blame for this time-bending mess?
Credits:
Hosted and Produced by Terence Chia (@tchia) and Haresh Tilani (@hareshtilani)
Sound Engineering - Tristen Yeak (@yeakstreet)
Project Manager - Dominique Lee
Commissioning Editor - Danny Koordi
If you would like to listen to more, you can follow the podcast on the Melisten App, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.
Podcast artwork by Denise Nicole Yap, you can reach her on Instagram @deniseardenise
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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In 1994, Singapore went toe-to-toe with the United States… and didn’t lose. American teenager Michael Fay was apprehended for vandalising several cars and properties here, and sentenced to six strokes of the cane. Then-President Bill Clinton himself even got involved, personally reaching out to Singapore’s leaders to appeal the decision. A massive backlash from American media erupted, painting Singapore as a cruel and barbaric country, but we stood our ground. We discuss the severity of Fay’s offences, how both countries navigated the aftermath, and in the ensuing 30 years, how the event shaped the public perception of Singapore.
Credits:
Hosted and Produced by Terence Chia (@tchia) and Haresh Tilani (@hareshtilani)
Sound Engineering - Tristen Yeak (@yeakstreet)
Project Manager - Dominique Lee
Commissioning Editor - Danny Koordi
If you would like to listen to more, you can follow the podcast on the Melisten App, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.
Podcast artwork by Denise Nicole Yap, you can reach her on Instagram @deniseardenise
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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You think you know your local kopi, but not like this! We go beyond the usual configurations of kopi-O, kopi-C and kopi siu dai to bring you an in-depth look into the origins of Singapore’s staple beverage. Where did it originate, and how did it become localised? We look at the art of brewing kopi, from the kind of beans used, and the giant sock filter–and how it differs greatly from western coffee at every step. After learning all this, your next sip of kopi is going to hit different!
Credits:
Hosted and Produced by Terence Chia (@tchia) and Haresh Tilani (@hareshtilani)
Sound Engineering - Tristen Yeak (@yeakstreet)
Project Manager - Dominique Lee
Commissioning Editor - Danny Koordi
If you would like to listen to more, you can follow the podcast on the Melisten App, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.
Podcast artwork by Denise Nicole Yap, you can reach her on Instagram @deniseardenise
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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How well do you know your fish head curry? It isn’t Singapore’s national dish, but after this episode, you may wonder why it isn’t! With 987 DJ Gerald Koh, we discuss its preparation, variations, and how we basically attack the whole thing, eyes, cheeks and all. We trace its origins to a Sophia Road stall in colonial Singapore, and its enigmatic creator because yes, unlike many other local dishes, this one can be traced back to one guy! It’s a spicy, lip-smacking chat.
Credits:
Hosted and Produced by Terence Chia (@tchia) and Haresh Tilani (@hareshtilani)
Guest - Gerald Koh (@geraldkoh987)
Sound Engineering - Tristen Yeak (@yeakstreet)
Project Manager - Dominique Lee
Commissioning Editor - Danny Koordi
If you would like to listen to more, you can follow the podcast on the Melisten App, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.
Podcast artwork by Denise Nicole Yap, you can reach her on Instagram @deniseardenise
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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They say we’re all the same deep inside. In this episode, we put that to the test! We look at the nature of DNA, how it’s passed down through generations, and how much the racial groups of Singapore have in common with each other, according to science. What studies have been done on Singapore’s gene pool, and what do they say about us? Follow us on this investigation that goes back tens of thousands of years, and as far as… Iceland?
Credits:
Hosted and Produced by Terence Chia (@tchia) and Haresh Tilani (@hareshtilani)
Sound Engineering - Tristen Yeak (@yeakstreet)
Project Manager - Dominique Lee
Commissioning Editor - Danny Koordi
If you would like to listen to more, you can follow the podcast on the Melisten App, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.
Podcast artwork by Denise Nicole Yap, you can reach her on Instagram @deniseardenise
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Okay, you got us. We recorded this episode before the 17 September Sumatra Squall squashed Singapore. So you already know what it’s called. But you can still learn what drives this force of nature, and what other weather systems rule our skies. Listen as Haresh sciences the heck out of our monsoons, uncovering the method behind their madness. There’s a lot more going on that just “sunny” and “rainy”!
Credits:
Hosted and Produced by Terence Chia (@tchia) and Haresh Tilani (@hareshtilani)
Sound Engineering - Tristen Yeak (@yeakstreet)
Project Manager - Dominique Lee
Commissioning Editor - Danny Koordi
If you would like to listen to more, you can follow the podcast on the Melisten App, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.
Podcast artwork by Denise Nicole Yap, you can reach her on Instagram @deniseardenise
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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At its peak, Zouk was Singapore’s party central, and Mambo Jambo was its hottest ticket. Terence takes us back to the glory days at Jiak Kim Street, where every Wednesday night, the club dropped its cutting-edge cool and embraced cheesy retro goodness. Reminisce about the playlists and shameless dance moves, and learn why despite winning the hearts of Singapore’s partygoers for two decades, Mambo itself had to go quietly into the night.
Credits:
Hosted and Produced by Terence Chia (@tchia) and Haresh Tilani (@hareshtilani)
Sound Engineering - Tristen Yeak (@yeakstreet)
Project Manager - Dominique Lee
Commissioning Editor - Danny Koordi
If you would like to listen to more, you can follow the podcast on the Melisten App, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.
Podcast artwork by Denise Nicole Yap, you can reach her on Instagram @deniseardenise
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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We don’t talk about Comrade Bala, because he was a cult leader in South London who convinced women he had supernatural powers, and held them captive for decades while sexually assaulting them. Yet, what many probably don't know is that this enigmatic figure was actually once a Singaporean citizen, educated here in the 1960s. In this episode we look into the formative years of a monster, what led to his eventual capture, and the dangers of radicalisation.
Credits:
Hosted and Produced by Terence Chia (@tchia) and Haresh Tilani (@hareshtilani)
Sound Engineering - Tristen Yeak (@yeakstreet)
Project Manager - Dominique Lee
Commissioning Editor - Danny Koordi
If you would like to listen to more, you can follow the podcast on the Melisten App, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.
Podcast artwork by Denise Nicole Yap, you can reach her on Instagram @deniseardenise
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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How well do you know Deepavali? Haresh takes a deep dive into the origins of the Hindu festival with Class 95 radio DJ and musician Rai Kannu. Hear them test each other’s knowledge of the ancient texts and meaning behind the rituals. Learn how Deepavali is celebrated across the diverse regions and religions of India, as well as Singapore. The differences may surprise you!
Credits:
Hosted by Haresh Tilani (@hareshtilani)
Guest - Rai Kannu (@rai.kannu)
Produced by Terence Chia (@tchia) and Haresh Tilani (@hareshtilani)
Sound Engineering - Tristen Yeak (@yeakstreet)
Project Manager - Dominique Lee
Commissioning Editor - Danny Koordi
If you would like to listen to more, you can follow the podcast on the Melisten App, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.
Podcast artwork by Denise Nicole Yap, you can reach her on Instagram @deniseardenise
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Today Singapore has one of the highest internet penetration rates in the world, but it all had to start somewhere! Haresh and Terence take a good look at the nation’s browser history, reminiscing about what it felt like to access the Internet in its early days, before the dizzying advent of social media and smartphones. Who received the first ever email sent to Singapore? What did our choice of Internet Service Provider use to say about us? And how does the Internet even work? Find out all this and more on this episode!
Credits:
Hosted and Produced by Terence Chia (@tchia) and Haresh Tilani (@hareshtilani)
Sound Engineering - Tristen Yeak (@yeakstreet)
Project Manager - Dominique Lee
Commissioning Editor - Danny Koordi
If you would like to listen to more, you can follow the podcast on the Melisten App, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.
Podcast artwork by Denise Nicole Yap, you can reach her on Instagram @deniseardenise
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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We uncover the fascinating story behind Singapore's world-famous Night Safari, the OG of night zoos in the world. Now in its 30th year of existence, we go deep into how this groundbreaking attraction came to life, and highlight the challenges, innovations, and vision that transformed a gimmicky idea into a must-see destination for tourists in Singapore. We talk about the earliest zoos in Singapore, how former Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong was instrumental in the founding of the Night Safari, and what controversies the zoo has faced over the years.
Credits:
Hosted and Produced by Terence Chia (@tchia) and Haresh Tilani (@hareshtilani)
Sound Engineering - Tristen Yeak (@yeakstreet)
Project Manager - Dominique Lee
Commissioning Editor - Danny Koordi
If you would like to listen to more, you can follow the podcast on the Melisten App, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.
Podcast artwork by Denise Nicole Yap, you can reach her on Instagram @deniseardenise
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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We explore the bizarre incident that is the Koro Crisis of 1967, when a widespread panic over shrinking genitals gripped Singapore. Delve into the psychological, cultural, and social factors that fueled this mass hysteria, turning an old wives’ tale into a national crisis. We’ll unpack the strange phenomenon, its impact on the population, and how it was eventually quelled. Tune in for a fascinating look at one of the most unusual episodes in Singapore’s history.
Credits:
Hosted and Produced by Terence Chia (@tchia) and Haresh Tilani (@hareshtilani)
Sound Engineering - Tristen Yeak (@yeakstreet)
Project Manager - Dominique Lee
Commissioning Editor - Danny Koordi
If you would like to listen to more, you can follow the podcast on the Melisten App, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.
Podcast artwork by Denise Nicole Yap, you can reach her on Instagram @deniseardenise
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Was there a better time for English language Singapore TV than the 1990s? Masters of the Sea, Rollin’ Good Times, Happy Belly, The Ra-Ra Show, Pyramid Game and much more appeared on our screens all at once. We reminisce with radio deejay Vernetta Lopez, who was there when it all happened, playing Denise in the hit show Under One Roof. Hear us discuss why that era was so special and productive, debates surrounding the use of Singlish, and how TV production has changed since then.
Credits:
Hosted and Produced by Terence Chia (@tchia) and Haresh Tilani (@hareshtilani)
Special Guest - Vernetta Lopez (@vernettalopez)
Sound Engineering - Tristen Yeak (@yeakstreet)
Project Manager - Dominique Lee
Commissioning Editor - Danny Koordi
If you would like to listen to more, you can follow the podcast on the Melisten App, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.
Podcast artwork by Denise Nicole Yap, you can reach her on Instagram @deniseardenise
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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We’re all familiar with Tiger Beer and other craft beers that were created here, but what do we really know about the history of beer brewing in Singapore? In this refreshing episode, we dive into the rich history of beer brewing in Singapore, and how the origin story of Tiger Beer is closely intertwined with it. Discover how Tiger Beer journeyed from its humble beginnings in the 1930s to become a global sensation and a symbol of pride for Singapore.
Credits:
Hosted and Produced by Terence Chia (@tchia) and Haresh Tilani (@hareshtilani)
Sound Engineering - Tristen Yeak (@yeakstreet)
Project Manager - Dominique Lee
Commissioning Editor - Danny Koordi
If you would like to listen to more, you can follow the podcast on the Melisten App, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.
Podcast artwork by Denise Nicole Yap, you can reach her on Instagram @deniseardenise
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Did you know that long hairstyles on men were banned for a brief period in Singapore? In this episode, we delve into the unique and controversial Long Hair Ban in Singapore from the 1960s. Discover why the government decided to target men with long hair, the social and cultural implications of the ban, and the public reaction. We'll explore the quirky enforcement methods and how hairstyles became a battleground for societal values and state control in Singapore's past.
Credits:
Hosted and Produced by Terence Chia (@tchia) and Haresh Tilani (@hareshtilani)
Sound Engineering - Tristen Yeak (@yeakstreet)
Project Manager - Dominique Lee
Commissioning Editor - Danny Koordi
If you would like to listen to more, you can follow the podcast on the Melisten App, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.
Podcast artwork by Denise Nicole Yap, you can reach her on Instagram @deniseardenise
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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