The Straits Times Podcasts

Life Picks Ep 35: What to do in Singapore May 30-June 13: Sifa shows (arts); brunch buffets (food); Deon's album launch (gigs) 7:32 mins Synopsis: Every Thursday, The Straits Times highlights the best films, concerts, restaurants and arts events you can catch in Singapore over the coming weeks. This week, Melissa Sim hosts colleague Anjali Raguraman, who talks about Singapore singer-songwriter Deon who launches his third album at The Esplanade on June 1. Wong Ah Yoke shares his experience at two new brunch spots, while Akshita Nanda recommends two events which are part of the Singapore International Festival of Arts: A Dream Under The Southern Bough: Reverie, which runs from May 31 to June 2, and the Festival Closing Concert at the Botanic Gardens on June 2 (8pm). Produced by: Melissa Sim and Ernest Luis Edited by: Adam Azlee Subscribe, like and rate Life Picks on: Spotify: http://str.sg/oeGc  iTunes: http://str.sg/oeXg  Google podcasts: http://str.sg/o8Gx  Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts  Feedback to: [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Game Of Two Halves Ep 35: Dream Team 94' players Lim Tong Hai and Lee Man Hon look ahead to the Spurs-Liverpool Champions League final 13:25 mins Synopsis: A Game of Two Halves is The Straits Times' weekly sports podcast that is out every Tuesday. Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur meet on Sunday morning (Singapore time) in one of the most intriguing Champions League finals in recent times. Former national footballers Lim Tong Hai and Lee Man Hon - Reds and Spurs die-hards respectively - join ST sports correspondent Sazali Abdul Aziz to preview the epic clash, discussing which was the most memorable game in their teams' runs to the final, the key men in Madrid, whether Harry Kane should start for Spurs, and why the London side's woeful record of one win in 14 past meetings with Liverpool, ought to be chucked out the window. Produced by: Sazali Abdul Aziz and Ernest Luis Edited by: Adam Azlee Subscribe, like and rate A Game of Two Halves on: Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2PwZCYU  iTunes: http://str.sg/o8MK Google podcasts: http://str.sg/oXeS Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts Feedback to: [email protected] See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Game Of Two Halves Ep 34: Toronto Raptors' fairytale run to the NBA finals; Potential new Lions' head honcho 10:51 mins Synopsis: A Game of Two Halves is The Straits Times' weekly sports podcast that is out every Tuesday. Sports correspondents Sazali Abdul Aziz and David Lee salute the underdogs who punched above their weight over the weekend - Toronto Raptors reached the NBA finals for the first time in their 24-year history, while 112-year-old Italian Serie A club Atalanta will make their first appearance in the group stage of next season's Champions League. The two also discuss the imminent appointment of the new Lion tamer - rumoured to be Japanese coach Tatsuma Yoshida - to helm the men's national football team. This will come ahead of the June international break with friendly matches against Solomon Islands and Myanmar, as well as other recent developments in local football. Produced by: Sazali Abdul Aziz and David Lee Edited by: Adam Azlee Subscribe, like and rate A Game of Two Halves on: Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2PwZCYU  iTunes: http://str.sg/o8MK Google podcasts: http://str.sg/oXeS Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts Feedback to: [email protected] See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Money Hacks Ep 44: Financial adulting 101 and controlling monthly credit card debt 11:52 mins Synopsis: In this podcast series every Monday, The Straits Times and The Business Times break down actionable financial tips. This episode is brought to you by OCBC Bank. It is aimed at those in their 20s and are starting to work, and how can set themselves up financially to avoid common mistakes and focus on their careers.  Money Hacks' Chris Lim hosts 20-year-old Vanessa Lim, a temp at The Business Times, and Mr Kelvin Goh, OCBC Bank’s Head of Investments and Wealth Advisory. In a Frank by OCBC survey of 866 students and young working adults aged 16-29, done earlier this year, only two-thirds managed to stick to a budget - or even have an expense budget - and two out of five struggled to stick to their saving plans. How to get started after listening to this episode: 1:00 mins - Should you have two bank accounts - one for paying bills and one for saving? 2:04 mins - Mr Goh advises on the first step - how to automate transfers to savings every month. 4:00 mins - Should you stick with only one bank account like the OCBC 360? 5:37 mins - Paying cash for everything means you miss out on credit card perks. How do you avoid drowning in credit card debt when you are starting out in your career? Should you set a credit limit on your card? 7:50 mins - Credit cards should not be used as a back door to overspending beyond your means, but the right accounts mean that interest tiers can grow with you when you are ready for larger financial commitments. 8:20 mins - Can old-school diaries, Excel spreadsheets or even online tools like OCBC's Money In$ights help you budget and track spending and saving more effectively? Get more Frank by OCBC articles for the young here. Produced by: Ernest Luis and Christopher Lim Edited by: Adam Azlee Like, subscribe and rate our Money Hacks podcast on: Spotify: http://str.sg/oeGN  iTunes: http://str.sg/oeXe  Google podcasts: http://str.sg/oeGd  Feedback to: [email protected] Do note: Any financial or investment information in this podcast is for use in Singapore only and is intended to be for your general information. Any particular investment or decision should only be made after consulting with a fully qualified financial adviser.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Double Feature looks at Star Wars taking on the trolls, Disney's latest exercise in animation-to-human conversion Aladdin and Zac Efron remembering he's a good actor. At the 1.58 mark, Jonathan Roberts and The New Paper's Joanne Soh discuss Will Smith's Arabian Nights Bollywood-tinged longer-than-the-original extravaganza. But who is the film's saving grace? At 12.25, we review Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile, the true-life tale of serial killer Ted Bundy. An extraordinary story because Bundy proved so charming that he had female fans at his trial. This film also marks Zac Efron's return to acting. He's been in film's before this but it seems now he's actually remembered he can act. Share your take  at [email protected] Produced by: Jonathan Roberts Discover more Double Feature on: Spotify: str.sg/oeGx iTunes: str.sg/oeXh Google podcasts: str.sg/oXeZ Website: http://str.sg/stpodcastsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pop Vultures Ep 8: Stars & social media stupidity - the Ian Fang-CarrieWong and Tosh Zhang sagas 26:09 mins Synopsis: A podcast by The Straits Times that examines all the ins and outs of pop culture, be it Asian entertainment or Hollywood. The past few weeks have been tumultuous in local entertainment - with the leaks of private and explicit chats between Mediacorp stars Ian Fang and Carrie Wong and the brief tenure of Tosh Zhang as Pink Dot ambassador, who stepped down after his previous homophobic tweets surfaced. Both of these scandals played out on social media - but who played the game the best? Who played it the worst? And at the end of the day - who was the biggest winner? (You'll never guess!) Join the Pop Vultures as they discuss how celebrities navigate social media, using the Ian Fang-Carrie Wong and the Tosh Zhang sagas, as case studies. Here's what they cover: 1. A brief recap of the Ian Fang-Carrie Wong drama and the Tosh Zhang debacle. 2. Celebrities and their right to privacy 3. The nature of social media and its immediacy getting the best of stars - how Boris Lin's replies made everyone look worse. 4. The permanence of social media and what Tosh Zhang did wrong and how it reverberated throughout the LGBTQ community. 5. How Rebecca Lim and Lawrence Wong played the social media game. 6. Final thoughts on the public perception of these stars and their future going forward. 7. The Pop Vultures Awards: Who was the MVP? Who won big? Who lost big? Produced by: Jan Lee and Yeo Sam Jo Edited by: Yeo Sam Jo Feedback to: [email protected] [email protected]@sph.com.sg Spotify: http://str.sg/otU9 Apple Podcasts: http://str.sg/oyLi Google Podcasts: http://str.sg/oyLw Website: http://str.sg/stpodcastsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Life Picks Ep 34: What to do in Singapore May 23-June 6 - Burger And Lobster (food); Hallyupopfest (gigs) 6:01 mins Synopsis: Every Thursday, The Straits Times highlights the best films, concerts, restaurants and arts events you can catch in Singapore over the coming weeks. This week, Melissa Sim hosts colleague Eunice Quek, who had the chance to try the newly opened Burger And Lobster at Jewel Changi Airport, and Desiree Loh, who is reporting on the K-pop festival HallyuPopFest on May 25 and 26. Produced by: Melissa Sim and Ernest Luis Edited by: Adam Azlee Subscribe, like and rate Life Picks on: Spotify: http://str.sg/oeGc  iTunes: http://str.sg/oeXg  Google podcasts: http://str.sg/o8Gx  Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts  Feedback to: [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Game Of Two Halves Ep 33: Singapore taekwondo in governance mess; Rafael Nadal's Roland Garros promise 7:43 mins Synopsis: A Game of Two Halves is The Straits Times' weekly sports podcast that is out every Tuesday. Sports correspondent David Lee hosts his colleague Nicole Chia in this episode as they discuss Rafael Nadal's road to Roland Garros this year as the favourite to win his 12th French Open title. Fresh off his Rome Masters triumph, what makes Nadal such a beast on clay? In the second half of the episode, they look at the controversy surrounding the Singapore Taekwondo Federation and what it means for Singapore taekwondo. And why Ikhsan Fandi scoring in Europe, such a big deal?  Produced by: David Lee and Nicole Chia Edited by: Adam Azlee Subscribe, like and rate A Game of Two Halves on: Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2PwZCYU  iTunes: http://str.sg/o8MK Google podcasts: http://str.sg/oXeS Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts Feedback to: [email protected] See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Health Check Ep 11: How to use the Fast method to recognise a stroke and react quickly 9:11 mins Synopsis: In this fortnightly podcast series on Wednesdays, The Straits Times guides you to healthier living and debunks the myths with expert guests. Our guest for this episode is Dr Shekhawat Ravindra Singh (pictured left), an associate consultant at the Department of Neurology at the National Neuroscience Institute. He tells us how to recognise a stroke, also known as a brain attack, as well as how to prevent one. He answers the following questions: Why do people still turn up late for treatment of suspected strokes? (0:57) What are the symptoms? What are the dos and don'ts? (1:10) What treatment can you expect at the emergency department after? (3:10) Can strokes be prevented? Smoking is a major factor for young victims aged 25 onwards (4:50) Rare causes of strokes (5:40) For family members or even strangers who run into potential stroke victims, learn the Fast test. F stands for Face: Smile and see if one side of the face droops. A stands for Arms: Raise both arms. Does one armdrop down? S stands for Speech: Say a short phrase and check for slurred or strange speech. T stands for Time: If the answer to any of these is yes, call 995 in Singapore right away and seek emergency help. Do share this podcast via the channels below with your friends and loved ones. Produced by: Joyce Teo and Ernest Luis Edited by: Adam Azlee Follow more Health Check podcasts and rate us on: Spotify: http://str.sg/oeGY  Apple Podcasts: http://str.sg/oeXP  Google Podcasts: http://str.sg/oeLN  Playlist: https://str.sg/Jw7R  Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts  Feedback to: [email protected]  Thank you for your support! ST & BT Podcasts picked up a silver medal for Best Digital Project to engage younger and/or millennial audiences at 2019 Asian Digital Media Awards by Wan-Ifra:  https://str.sg/Jw5T  Watch a video of Podcasts on the rise in Singapore: https://youtu.be/aGJ4cbch6eQSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Money Hacks Ep 43: Saving for key life goals in your early 20s 12:33 mins Synopsis: In this podcast series every Monday, The Straits Times and The Business Times break down actionable financial tips. This episode is brought to you by OCBC Bank. It is aimed at millennials and students who have life goals but aren't sure how to work towards them. Money Hacks' Chris Lim hosts 19-year-old Lim Li Shian (Liz), a temp at The Business Times, and Mr Vasu Menon, OCBC Bank’s Senior Investment Strategist, Wealth Management Singapore. In a Frank by OCBC survey of 866 students and young working adults aged 16-29, done earlier this year, almost three-quarters said travelling is important to them, while more than four out of five ranked life experiences as a top priority, along with maintaining relevant skills as part of pursuing further education. Are these goals realistic? 0:42 mins - Mr Menon guides Ms Lim, who says she wants to set aside money for university studies, travel overseas, or learning a new language. 1:41 mins - He shows her Frank by OCBC's Savings Goals online calculator and how to set aside money each month to achieve her immediate goals. 2:57 mins - Are long-term goals also important for the young to keep in mind? 4:16 mins - Find out why you should not borrow money to achieve short-term goals, like travel trips. 7:00 mins - How about Ms Lim's medium-term goals like owning a car? Find out what advice she gets. Get more Frank by OCBC articles for the young here. Produced by: Ernest Luis and Christopher Lim Edited by: Adam Azlee Like, subscribe and rate our Money Hacks podcast on: Spotify: http://str.sg/oeGN  Apple Podcasts: http://str.sg/oeXe  Google podcasts: http://str.sg/oeGd  Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts Feedback to: [email protected] Do note: Any financial or investment information in this podcast is for use in Singapore only and is intended to be for your general information. Any particular investment or decision should only be made after consulting with a fully qualified financial adviser.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join The Watch | Ep 6 | Going, going... Drogon – The split over the Game Of Thrones finale 34 minutes of tear-stained spoilers And so our watch ends. The finale of Game Of Thrones took us to places we were not expecting. Host Jonathan Roberts is joined by ST's Jan Lee, Hairianto Diman, Melissa Heng and S Sakthivel. They discuss the big moments of S8E6 before signing off forever. That's as much as we'll say here. You'll have to listen to get the spoilers. The final season of Game Of Thrones premieres in Singapore on HBO (Starhub TV Ch 601/ Singtel TV Ch 420) and can be streamed on HBO GO app. Valar morghulis. Share your take on Game Of Thrones season 8 at [email protected] Produced by: Jonathan Roberts Discover more ST Podcasts on: Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2PwZCYU iTunes: https://apple.co/2Lu4rPP Google podcasts: http://str.sg/googlestbt Website: http://str.sg/stpodcastsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Double Feature looks at the new flutterings in the Batcave. R-Pattz is the new Bruce Wayne.  Is host Jonathan Roberts and The New Paper's Joanne Soh for or against the former Twilight star becoming the new Bruce Wayne? At the 3.40 mark, John Wick 3 is reviewed, though is the world's favourite dog-devoted assassin in trouble in a different way? Share your take on the new Batman or Keanu at [email protected] Produced by: Jonathan Roberts Discover more ST Podcasts on: Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2PwZCYU iTunes: https://apple.co/2Lu4rPP Google podcasts: http://str.sg/googlestbt Website: http://str.sg/stpodcastsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Life Picks Ep 33: What to do in Singapore May 16-30: Ghost Call (arts); sliced fish soup in Kaki Bukit and Sumire Yakitori House (food) 8:17 mins Synopsis: Every Thursday, The Straits Times highlights the best films, concerts, restaurants and arts events you can catch in Singapore over the coming weeks. This week, Melissa Sim hosts colleague Olivia Ho, who talks about the text-and-movement performance Ghost Call at Goodman Arts Centre. This collaboration between playwright Nabilah Said and Raw Moves artistic director Ricky Sim runs from May 16 to 18. Hedy Khoo makes her debut on the podcast series, sharing two food recommendations: Sumire Yakitori House at Bugis Junction and Teochew Fish Porridge at Kaki Bukit Market & Food Centre, Bedok North Street 3. Produced by: Melissa Sim and Ernest Luis Edited by: Adam Azlee Subscribe, like and rate Life Picks on: Spotify: http://str.sg/oeGc  iTunes: http://str.sg/oeXg  Google podcasts: http://str.sg/o8Gx  Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts  Feedback to: [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bookmark This! Ep 8: Middlemarch, Middle-Earth and the end of the world 20 mins Synopsis: A new monthly podcast by The Straits Times, where we talk about titles in the headlines and sizzling reads. Book-to-screen adaptations - love them or hate them? This month, as Game Of Thrones wraps up on HBO and we look forward to the Amazon Studios and BBC miniseries based on Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman's Armageddon comedy Good Omens, we size up the best and worst adaptations out there - from actors playing multiple characters in Cloud Atlas to the failure of the 2005 Pride And Prejudice film, and why Brad Pitt needs to stop making zombie movies. 1:55: Good Omens by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman5:37: Cloud Atlas by David Mitchell7:04: The Lord Of The Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien11:42: Middlemarch by George Eliot13:31: Pride And Prejudice by Jane Austen14:51: Revolutionary Road by Richard Yates15:27: The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien15:47: Murder On The Orient Express by Agatha Christie16:23: World War Z by Max Brooks18:18: His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman18:44: The Art Of Charlie Chan Hock Chye by Sonny Liew Produced by: Olivia Ho and Toh Wen Li Edited by: Adam Azlee Discover more Bookmark This! podcasts and rate us on:Spotify: http://str.sg/oeGgApple Podcasts: http://str.sg/oeXNGoogle Podcasts: http://str.sg/oeLG Playlist: https://str.sg/JZnGFeedback to: [email protected] Thank you for your support! ST & BT Podcasts picked up a silver medal for Best Digital Project to engage younger and/or millennial audiences at 2019 Asian Digital Media Awards by Wan-Ifra:  https://str.sg/Jw5T  Watch a video of Podcasts on the rise in Singapore: https://youtu.be/aGJ4cbch6eQSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Green Pulse Ep 5: How tropical rainforests are important world carbon sinks 8:46 mins Synopsis: In this new podcast series for 2019, The Straits Times dives into all things green, blue and brown. Green Pulse analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change. In this episode, we chat with Dr Arief Wijaya, senior manager for climate and forests at the World Resources Institute Indonesia, on the importance of tropical rainforests - ecosystems that help to regulate the amount of heat-trapping carbon in the atmosphere. Through the process of photosynthesis, trees take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen into the atmosphere. But human activities, such as deforestation and poaching, are affecting the their ability to play this role. This December, the annual United Nations climate change talks will take place in Chile, South America. The region is home to the Amazon, the largest tropical rainforest in the world. Large swathes of tropical rainforests can also found be found closer to Singapore. South-east Asia is home to the third largest rainforest in the world, and patches of them can be found in Singapore, in places such as the Central Catchment and Bukit Timah Nature Reserves. Produced by: Audrey Tan ([email protected]) and Mark Cheong ([email protected]) Follow Audrey Tan on Twitter Edited by: Adam Azlee Follow more Green Pulse podcasts and rate us on: Spotify: http://str.sg/oCXj Apple Podcasts: http://str.sg/oyLk Google podcasts: http://str.sg/oyLZ Playlist: https://str.sg/JwRh  Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts Feedback to: [email protected] See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Game Of Two Halves Ep 32: Why Liverpool's EPL failure isn't the end; Singapore Slingers a step from national basketball glory  12:45 mins Synopsis: A Game of Two Halves is The Straits Times' weekly sports podcast that is out every Tuesday. Straits Times sports correspondents Sazali Abdul Aziz and David Lee are joined by The New Paper's digital editor Jonathan Roberts, and they dissect the recently-concluded English Premier League season and its incredible title race that went down to the final day. Resident Liverpudlian and Reds fan Roberts explains why he is in a zen mode even after his favourite football team could not end its 29-year domestic title drought. In the second half, they discuss the Singapore Slingers. They are in the endgame now - they play Indonesian side CLS knights in the deciding Game 5 of the Asean Basketball League finals at the OCBC Arena on Wednesday (May 15). With the tie finely-poised at 2-2, Lee - who travelled to Surabaya with the Slingers for Games 3 and 4 - sets the scene and shares why winning the regional title would be an outstanding achievement. Produced by: Sazali Abdul Aziz and David Lee Edited by: Adam Azlee Subscribe, like and rate A Game of Two Halves on: Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2PwZCYU  iTunes: http://str.sg/o8MK Google podcasts: http://str.sg/oXeS Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts Feedback to: [email protected] See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join The Watch Ep 5: Fire and madness – Daenerys burns her bridges (and everything else) 20 minutes of combustible spoilers Well, don't say we didn't tell you so. A return to tactics sees Daenerys do well but a lack of sleep, food and friendship means she makes some very rash decisions. Host Jonathan Roberts is joined by ST's Olivia Ho, Hairianto Diman, Melissa Heng and S Sakthivel. They discuss the big moments of S8E5 and ask: What is 'respect sex'? That's as much as we'll say here. You'll have to listen to get the spoilers. The final season of Game Of Thrones premieres in Singapore on HBO (Starhub TV Ch 601/ Singtel TV Ch 420) and can be streamed on HBO GO app. Valar morghulis. Share your take on Game Of Thrones season 8 at [email protected] Produced by: Jonathan Roberts Discover more ST Podcasts on: Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2PwZCYU iTunes: https://apple.co/2Lu4rPP Google podcasts: http://str.sg/googlestbt Website: http://str.sg/stpodcastsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Life Picks Ep 32: What to do in Singapore May 9-23: Singapore Cocktail Festival and Violet Oon Singapore at Jewel (food); This Is What Happens To Pretty Girls (play)  10:51 mins Synopsis: Every Thursday, The Straits Times highlights the best films, concerts, restaurants and arts events you can catch in Singapore over the coming weeks.  This week, Melissa Sim hosts colleague Anjali Raguraman who talks about snagging $12 cocktails at the Singapore Cocktail Festival (May 10-12). Eunice Quek chats about the exclusive dishes at Violet Oon's newest outlet at Jewel. Akshita Nanda also speaks about the latest Pangdemonium play This Is What Happens To Pretty Girls, written by Ken Kwek in response to the #MeToo movement. It is on at the Drama Centre from May 10-26.  Produced by: Melissa Sim and Ernest Luis Edited by: Adam Azlee Subscribe, like and rate Life Picks on: Spotify: http://str.sg/oeGc  iTunes: http://str.sg/oeXg  Google podcasts: http://str.sg/o8Gx  Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts  Feedback to: [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Health Check Ep 10: Can schools and parents help boost the cognition and well-being of sleep-deprived Singaporean teenagers?  9:30 mins Synopsis: In this fortnightly podcast series on Wednesdays, The Straits Times guides you to healthier living and debunks the myths with expert guests. To discuss why teenagers and students need to sleep more and how insufficient sleep affects them, ST correspondent Joyce Teo and podcasting head Ernest Luis host Prof Michael Chee, the director of the Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience at the Duke-NUS Medical School who is a prominent sleep expert.  He answers the following questions: What can be done to help teenagers - inundated with homework, curricular activities, enrichment classes and tuition after school - sleep more? Most Singaporean adolescents sleep an average of 6.5 hours a night on the weekdays. What is a good amount of nocturnal sleep for teenagers? Is seven to eight hours a good achievable target for upper secondary school teenagers? Could shorter sleep increase the risk of diabetes among young Singaporeans? How can students manage better sleep strategy during intense examination periods?  Produced by: Joyce Teo and Ernest Luis Edited by: Adam Azlee Follow more Health Check podcasts and rate us on: Spotify: http://str.sg/oeGY  Apple Podcasts: http://str.sg/oeXP  Google Podcasts: http://str.sg/oeLN  Playlist: https://str.sg/Jw7R  Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts  Feedback to: [email protected] See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join The Watch Ep 4: Two Mad Queens – What do we do with a problem like Daenerys? 23 spoiler-laden minutes Poor old Daenerys.  Not a good episode for her. Her lack of tactics have cost her dearly, she's angry and there may not be enough people to hold her back. Cersei has been playing the long game, but she's down to her last few cares.  Host Jonathan Roberts is joined by ST's Olivia Ho, Jan Lee, Melissa Heng and S Sakthivel. They discuss the big moments of S8E4 and ask if it's not GenYa, is it GenNah? That's as much as we'll say here. You'll have to listen to get the spoilers. The final season of Game Of Thrones premieres in Singapore on HBO (Starhub TV Ch 601/ Singtel TV Ch 420) and can be streamed on HBO GO app. Valar morghulis. Share your take on Game Of Thrones season 8 at [email protected] Produced by: Jonathan Roberts Discover more ST Podcasts on: Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2PwZCYU iTunes: https://apple.co/2Lu4rPP Google podcasts: http://str.sg/googlestbt Website: http://str.sg/stpodcastsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Money Hacks Ep 42: How to get bonus interest in bank-and-earn accounts 8:42 mins Synopsis: In this podcast series every Monday, The Straits Times and The Business Times break down actionable financial tips. This episode is aimed at those who have just started working, or are drawing a regular salary, and want to know how they - and also young married millennial couples - can use bank-and-earn products better, so they can earn more interest with the money that goes regularly into their accounts each month. Helping us to make better sense of it all is Ms Priscilla Joseph, vice-president of consumer banking for DBS Bank. Our questions: What are bank-and-earn accounts and why are those offered by the major banks (such as UOB One, DBS Multiplier and OCBC 360) better than basic savings accounts? Each bank has its own specific product calculators online for you to type in your salary, or minimum credit card spend. What are the key basic criteria you should concentrate on, in order not to overstretch yourself? Do these bank-and-earn accounts serve you best if you have a regular monthly salary? What if you are married and are self-employed or a freelancer in the gig economy? We work through the example of a new-to-the-workforce graduate with a credited median salary of $2,800 (excluding CPF), and a credit card spend per month of $200, which is manageable in paying back monthly outstanding amounts, to avoid credit debt. With two categories above ticked off, the eligible interest rate is 1.85% p.a. for the DBS Multiplier account, for example. Many accounts give you bonus interest if you increase your bank account balance relative to the previous month. That can be hard to do if you constantly have bills to pay each month or, worse still, some bigger bills that come quarterly, or annually. What is a money hack to manage this? Tune in. Produced by: Ernest Luis and Christopher Lim Edited by: Adam Azlee Like, subscribe and rate our Money Hacks podcast on: Spotify: http://str.sg/oeGN  iTunes: http://str.sg/oeXe  Google podcasts: http://str.sg/oeGd  Feedback to: [email protected] Do note: Any financial or investment information in this podcast is for use in Singapore only and is intended to be for your general information. Any particular investment or decision should only be made after consulting with a fully qualified financial adviser.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Life Picks Ep 31: What to do in Singapore May 2-16: Troye Sivan (gigs); 'Til The End Of The World, We'll Meet In No Man's Land (arts) 5:43 mins Synopsis: Every Thursday, The Straits Times highlights the best films, concerts, restaurants and arts events you can catch in Singapore over the coming weeks. This week, Melissa Sim hosts colleague Boon Chan, who recommends pop star Troye Sivan's concert on May 3, while Akshita Nanda talks about singer-songwriter Inch Chua's "anti-musical" titled 'Til The End Of The World, We'll Meet In No Man's Land, which runs until May 4. Produced by: Melissa Sim and Ernest Luis Edited by: Adam Azlee Subscribe, like and rate Life Picks on: Spotify: http://str.sg/oeGc  iTunes: http://str.sg/oeXg  Google podcasts: http://str.sg/o8Gx  Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts  Feedback to: [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join The Watch Ep 3: Game Of Thrones' Endgame – Winter no more? 17 spoiler-laden minutes Who saw that coming? The Battle of Winterfell was packed with heart-stopping, scream inducing moments. At points every one looked close to death. But some deaths are bigger than others. Host Jonathan Roberts is joined by ST's Olivia Ho, Jan Lee, Hairianto Diman and S Sakthivel. They discuss the big moments of S8E3 and ask: Where do we go from here? Who dies next? And when will Hairianto let go of GenYa? That's as much as we'll say here. You'll have to listen to get the spoilers. The final season of Game Of Thrones premieres in Singapore on HBO (Starhub TV Ch 601/ Singtel TV Ch 420) and can be streamed on HBO GO app. Valar morghulis. Share your take on Game Of Thrones season 8 at [email protected] Produced by: Jonathan Roberts Discover more ST Podcasts on: Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2PwZCYU iTunes: https://apple.co/2Lu4rPP Google podcasts: http://str.sg/googlestbt Website: http://str.sg/stpodcastsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Money Hacks Ep 41: Top tips on preparing yourself to sell or buy your HDB flat 8:42 mins Synopsis: In this podcast series every Monday, The Straits Times and The Business Times break down actionable financial tips. Editor's note: Property information correct when published on April 29, 2019 We host sisters Rhonda (front row on right) and Race Wong (front row on left) - who are co-founders of Ohmyhome, that is aiming to make housing transactions in Singapore simple, fast and affordable. They explain the steps and mindset you need to have, if you are ready to sell or buy a HDB flat: Do you want to engage a property agent or do-it-yourself within your set time frame? Family members selling to each other: Does this scenario apply to your case? How much paperwork is involved? You can also pay for just documentation preparation services Understanding finance calculation and bank or HDB loans Decide what is the most important criteria for yourself: Is it money or location? You can download HDB's app too. Produced by: Ernest Luis and Christopher Lim Edited by: Adam Azlee Like, subscribe and rate our Money Hacks podcast on: Spotify: http://str.sg/oeGN  iTunes: http://str.sg/oeXe  Google podcasts: http://str.sg/oeGd  Feedback to: [email protected] Do note: Any financial or investment information in this podcast is for use in Singapore only and is intended to be for your general information. Any particular investment or decision should only be made after consulting with a fully qualified financial adviser.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It is finally here. Avengers: Endgame – the highly-anticipated, era-ending, 22nd film of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Host Jonathan Roberts is joined by The New Paper's Joanne Soh as they discuss what they can, then look at the important issues – like when is the best point to go to the toilet? NEXT WEEK: THE SPOILERS AND THE FUTURE OF THE MCU Share your take on Endgame at [email protected] Produced by: Jonathan Roberts Discover more ST Podcasts on: Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2PwZCYU iTunes: https://apple.co/2Lu4rPP Google podcasts: http://str.sg/googlestbt Website: http://str.sg/stpodcastsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pop Vultures Ep 7: Celebrities caught cheating! How do they recover from extramarital affairs? 22:06 mins Synopsis: A podcast by The Straits Times that examines all the ins and outs of pop culture, be it Asian entertainment or Hollywood. Hong Kong singer Andy Hui's recent affair with TVB actress Jacqueline Wong - while being married to his superstar wife Sammi Cheng - has dominated headlines in Chinese entertainment for over a week. This recalls some infamous cases of celebrity infidelity: Jackie Chan, Jack Neo, Brad Pitt, Prince Charles and so on. Join the Pop Vultures Jan Lee and Yeo Sam Jo as they spill the tea on famous extramarital affairs and even the occasional love child. They also analyse the tactics celebrities use to ride through scandals of their own making and muse on who the real victims are. Here's what they cover: 1. Why is Andy Hui's extramarital affair such big news? (0.50) 2. Notorious cases of celebrities caught cheating in the East: Jackie Chan's affair with Elaine Ng and his love child Etta Ng, Jack Neo's 2010 affair. And in the West - Jay-Z cheating on Beyonce and how Solange Knowles attacked him (4.25) 3. Women cheating on their partners: Annie Yi cheating on Harlem Yu (8.00) 4. Roadmap for damage control after being caught cheating (8.35) 5. Jack Neo's 2010 affair and how he handled it (10.30) 6. How Asian celebrities vs Hollywood celebrities handle cheating scandals (12.20) 7. Who the real victims of cheating scandals are: - The enduring public shaming of Monica Lewinsky, the White House intern who had an affair with then-US President Bill Clinton (14.27)- Sexism in cheating scandals (15.37)- Kids who get entangled in such scandals such as Etta Ng (16.15) 8. On cheating, marriage and monogamy (17.23) Produced by: Jan Lee, Yeo Sam Jo and Ernest Luis Edited by: Yeo Sam Jo Feedback to: [email protected] [email protected]@sph.com.sg Spotify: http://str.sg/otU9 Apple Podcasts: http://str.sg/oyLi Google Podcasts: http://str.sg/oyLw Website: http://str.sg/stpodcastsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Life Picks EP 30: What to do in Singapore April 25-May 9 - Eureka Popcorn & Yun Nans (food) at Jewel Changi; Showtek at Marquee (gigs)  7:55 mins Synopsis: Every Thursday, The Straits Times highlights the best films, concerts, restaurants and arts events you can catch in Singapore over the coming weeks. This week, Melissa Sim hosts colleague Wong Ah Yoke, who recommends Eureka Popcorn and Chinese restaurant Yun Nans, both at the new Jewel Changi. Anjali Raguraman chats with us about the new mega-club Marquee and two upcoming acts American DJ Kaskade (April 26) and Dutch electronic duo Showtek (April 27). Produced by: Melissa Sim and Ernest Luis Edited by: Adam Azlee Subscribe, like and rate Life Picks on:   Spotify: http://str.sg/oeGc   iTunes: http://str.sg/oeXg   Google podcasts: http://str.sg/o8Gx   Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts   Feedback to: [email protected]  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Green Pulse Ep 4: Lessons from the female sperm whale Jubi Lee found dead in Singapore in 2015 14:37 mins Synopsis: In this new podcast series for 2019, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change. This week, we discuss the scientific lessons learnt from what is perhaps the most charismatic marine mammal to ever be recorded in Singapore: The sperm whale. In a paper published on April 5, 2019, in scientific journal Peer J, a team of scientists led by Mr Marcus Chua - mammal researcher at the National University of Singapore’s Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum - demystified the enigma of the female sperm whale nicknamed Jubi Lee. The team painted a clearer picture about what she ate and where she lived. Hear more about the tales told by this dead whale as we chat with Mr Chua and Mr Stephen Beng, chairman of the marine conservation group of the Nature Society (Singapore). The whale had been found dead and floating off Jurong Island with a gash in her back on July 10, 2015. Her appearance during Singapore's golden jubilee year had led a museum staff member to give her the nickname Jubi Lee. Her serendipitous discovery had provided scientists with a good chance to learn more about this charismatic marine mammal, which was the subject of Herman Melville's classic 1851 novel Moby Dick. Produced by: Audrey Tan ([email protected]) and Mark Cheong ([email protected]) Follow Audrey Tan on Twitter Edited by: Adam Azlee Follow more Green Pulse podcasts and rate us on: Spotify: http://str.sg/oCXj Apple Podcasts: http://str.sg/oyLk Google podcasts: http://str.sg/oyLZ Playlist: https://str.sg/JwRh  Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts Feedback to: [email protected] See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Health Check Ep 9: Why sleep habits need to be formed when young 9:30 mins Synopsis: In this fortnightly podcast series on Wednesdays, The Straits Times guides you to healthier living and debunks the myths with expert guests. ST correspondent Joyce Teo and podcasting head Ernest Luis host Prof Michael Chee, the director of the Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience at the Duke-NUS Medical School, a prominent sleep expert who wants to change how we think about sleep. He was asked the following questions: 1. Are we sleeping more than our neighbours in the region? What’s the evidence? 2. We all know we should prioritise sleep but many of us don't get a full night's sleep. Can we make up for the lack of sleep on weekends, or by taking afternoon naps? 3. Why do we need to have sufficient sleep? 4. What causes insomnia and is it normal for the elderly to have poor sleep? 5. Should offices have sleep pods? Produced by: Joyce Teo and Ernest Luis Edited by: Adam Azlee Follow more Health Check podcasts and rate us on: Spotify: http://str.sg/oeGY  Apple Podcasts: http://str.sg/oeXP  Google Podcasts: http://str.sg/oeLN  Playlist: https://str.sg/Jw7R  Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts  Feedback to: [email protected] See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Game Of Two Halves Ep 31: Mental toughness matters for Liverpool in EPL and Shanti Pereira ahead of 2019 SEA Games  8:09 mins Synopsis: A Game of Two Halves is The Straits Times' weekly sports podcast that is out every Tuesday. Nicole Chia hosts assistant sports editor Rohit Brijnath in this episode as they talk about why potential champions always dig deep and display mental toughness in the final stages. Have Liverpool shown that so far as the pressure increases on them as leaders at the top of the English Premier League?  With just a few games left, is it tougher for the chasing Manchester City in second spot? They also discuss the mental toughness of a stronger and faster Shanti Pereira. After her injury woes last year, she has bounced back to rewrite her own 100m national athletics record in her first official 100m race of the year at the Asian Athletics Championships in Doha. She clocked 11.58 seconds in the heats to rank eighth overall and qualify for the semi-finals. The record is pending ratification by Singapore Athletics. With the 2019 South-east Asia Games looming at the end of the year, Shanti's 11.58sec effort currently ranks her top in the women's 100m in the region this year, with Kristina Knott of the Philippines posting 11.64sec last month and Malaysian Zaidatul Husniah Zulkifli clocking 11.65sec in February. Even for a world-class tennis player like Rafael Nadal, mental toughness matters more than ever as he ages and heads into the clay court season with the French Open held in late May and early June. Produced by: Nicole Chia Edited by: Adam Azlee Subscribe, like and rate A Game of Two Halves:   On Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2PwZCYU   On iTunes: http://str.sg/o8MK On Google podcasts: http://str.sg/oXeS On website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts Feedback to: [email protected]  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join The Watch Ep 2: Predicting the first big death in Game Of Thrones' final season 28 spoiler-loaded minutes The second episode of Season 8 may have been low on action and high on quips but it gave us a lot to chew on – namely who won't make it beyond episode three. And there are a lot of candidates for who will be left on the battlefield.  Host Jonathan Roberts is joined by ST's Olivia Ho, Melissa Heng, Hairianto Diman and S Sakthivel. Do you agree with the choices? Who do you think will be the first major character to die? And is Daenerys becoming less stable the more her reign over The Seven Kingdoms looks less likely to happen? That's as much as we'll say here. You'll have to listen to get the spoilers. The final season of Game Of Thrones premieres in Singapore on HBO (Starhub TV Ch 601/ Singtel TV Ch 420) and can be streamed on HBO GO app. Valar morghulis. Share your take on Game Of Thrones season 8 at [email protected] Produced by: Jonathan Roberts Discover more ST Podcasts on: Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2PwZCYU iTunes: https://apple.co/2Lu4rPP Google podcasts: http://str.sg/googlestbt Website: http://str.sg/stpodcastsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Money Hacks Ep 40: Top myths to dispel for HDB flat sellers and buyers in today's market 9:09 mins Synopsis: In this podcast series every Monday, The Straits Times and The Business Times break down actionable financial tips. Editor's note: Property information correct when published on April 22, 2019 We host sisters Rhonda (front row on right) and Race Wong (front row on left) - who are co-founders of Ohmyhome. Ohmyhome is an online one-stop shop with a 30% market share, that is aiming to make housing transactions in Singapore simple, fast and affordable. They help us dispel the top myths and misconceptions for HDB flat sellers and buyers in today's market. You can download HDB's app too. Produced by: Ernest Luis and Christopher Lim Edited by: Adam Azlee Like, subscribe and rate our Money Hacks podcast on:   Spotify: http://str.sg/oeGN   iTunes: http://str.sg/oeXe   Google podcasts: http://str.sg/oeGd   Feedback to: [email protected] Do note: Any financial or investment information in this podcast is for use in Singapore only and is intended to be for your general information. Any particular investment or decision should only be made after consulting with a fully qualified financial adviser.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Game Of Two Halves Ep 30: Tiger Woods' great comeback at 43; Can badminton do more to be a truly global sport? 16:42 mins Synopsis: A Game of Two Halves is The Straits Times' weekly sports podcast that is out every Tuesday. Host David Lee hosts assistant sports editor Rohit Brijnath (left above) in this episode.  After a 11-year wait, Tiger Woods has won a golf major again, claiming victory in the Masters at Augusta National over the weekend, winning his 15th career major. His last triumph had been the 2008 US Open. What is the impact of this victory and can he win three more to match Jack Nicklaus' record of 18? In the second half of the podcast, what were the highlights from the star-studded Singapore Badminton Open and what can be done for the sport to become truly global? Produced by: David Lee Edited by: Adam Azlee Subscribe, like and rate A Game of Two Halves:On Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2PwZCYUOn iTunes: http://str.sg/o8MK On Google podcasts: http://str.sg/oXeS On website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts Feedback to: [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join The Watch Ep 1: Game Of Thrones final season begins with flirting with dragons, reunions and Genya 28 spoiler-loaded minutes Game Of Throne's final season has begun and we are not holding back on spoilers. Host Jonathan Roberts is joined by ST's Olivia Ho, Melissa Heng, Jan Lee, Hairianto Diman and S Sakthivel. The team discusses the highs points, the spoilers, the dragons, the reunions and the potential shipping (as the kids say). All that and even more theories for what is to come. Have we seen the seeds of 'The Mad Queen' finally germinating? That's as much as we'll say here. You'll have to listen to get the spoilers. The final season of Game Of Thrones premieres in Singapore on HBO (Starhub TV Ch 601/ Singtel TV Ch 420) and can be streamed on HBO GO app. Valar morghulis. Share your take on Game Of Thrones season 8 at [email protected] Produced by: Jonathan Roberts Discover more ST Podcasts on: Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2PwZCYU iTunes: https://apple.co/2Lu4rPP Google podcasts: http://str.sg/googlestbt Website: http://str.sg/stpodcastsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pop Vultures (Season 1: Ep 6) April 12: Star Awards special! Favourite Channel 8 dramas and their legacy for Singapore TV viewers 30:53 mins Synopsis: A podcast by The Straits Times that examines all the ins and outs of pop culture, be it Asian entertainment or Hollywood. Singapore television's biggest event - the Star Awards - is having its 25th anniversary this year. Take a trip down memory lane as Pop Vultures Jan Lee and Yeo Sam Jo share their favourite local drama moments, iconic theme songs and ridiculous tropes and plot lines. What is the legacy and value of local dramas for Singaporeans? How much did it teach Singaporeans about change as a nation? In an age of Netflix, Youtube and HBO - are local dramas still relevant? Join the Pop Vultures as they cover moments like catching poker cards in the sky, to running down Orchard Road in a bikini! Here's what they cover: Most memorable shows and favourite shows they have watched: The Unbeatables (双天至尊), Golden Pillow (金枕头), Love Me, Love Me Not (真爱无敌), Wok Of Life (福满人间), Stand By Me (家人有约), A Place To Call Home (薯条汉堡青春痘), Darling In-Law (我的岳母是巫婆) Massive productions that once featured almost all local actors: Return Of The Condor Heroes (神雕侠侣), long form drama Holland Village (荷兰村), The Hotel (大酒店)  Most memorable television moments: The Champion's (任我遨游) bikini on Orchard Road scene, The Price Of Peace (和平的代价) traumatic rape scene, Ivy Lee (李锦梅) in Angel's Dream (真相)  Ridiculous tropes, plot lines and ways to die in local dramas: The Unbeatables, The Reunion (顶天立地) Iconic local drama theme songs such as Mavis Hee's 城里的月光, Power Station's 我吃得起苦.  Legacy of local dramas and how it recorded Singapore's rapid change as a nation: Pagers, payphones, old buses and taxis Period dramas set in Singapore and how it made history accessible: The Price of Peace introducing war hero Lim Bo Seng, Singapore as a regional entertainment hub and promoting Chinese culture and language (17:00) The old and new crop of local actors, classic Star Award fashion and moments and the relevance and quality of local dramas going forward Produced by: Jan Lee, Yeo Sam Jo and Ernest Luis Edited by: Yeo Sam Jo Feedback to: [email protected] [email protected]@sph.com.sg Spotify: http://str.sg/otU9 Apple Podcasts: http://str.sg/oyLi Google Podcasts: http://str.sg/oyLw Website: http://str.sg/stpodcastsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bookmark This! Ep 7: Singaporean Lee Jing-Jing's historical novel How We Disappeared; New York novelist Siri Hustvedt's Memories Of The Future 19:35 mins Synopsis: A new monthly podcast by The Straits Times, where we talk about titles in the headlines and sizzling reads. This month, we look at women and memory in two new books. New York novelist Siri Hustvedt's Memories Of The Future is about a woman named S.H. who moves to New York. Is it a memoir? Is it something else? There is also Singaporean Lee Jing-Jing's devastating historical novel How We Disappeared, about "comfort women" in World War II-era Singapore. Produced by: Olivia Ho and Toh Wen Li Edited by: Adam Azlee Discover more Bookmark This! podcasts and rate us on:Spotify: http://str.sg/oeGgApple Podcasts: http://str.sg/oeXNGoogle Podcasts: http://str.sg/oeLG Playlist: https://str.sg/JZnGFeedback to: [email protected] Thank you for your support! ST & BT Podcasts picked up a silver medal for Best Digital Project to engage younger and/or millennial audiences at 2019 Asian Digital Media Awards by Wan-Ifra:  https://str.sg/Jw5T  Watch a video of Podcasts on the rise in Singapore: https://youtu.be/aGJ4cbch6eQSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join The Watch: Preview - Game Of Thrones' final season premiering April 15 | Our best, worst and wildest GoT theories 33 Valyrian minutes Synopsis: Winter is here. The final season of Game Of Thrones starts  9am, April 15 (Singapore time) and The Straits Times will be providing a post-broadcast breakdown of each of the six final episodes every Monday. Host Jonathan Roberts is joined by various emissaries from the different kingdoms of ST: Olivia Ho, Melissa Heng, Jan Lee, Hairianto Diman and S Sakthivel. In this episode, the team discuss its best and worst moments from Seasons 1-7, and at the 17-minute mark, unleash their wildest theories for this series. Prepare to have your mind blown. The eighth and final season of Game Of Thrones premieres in Singapore on HBO (Starhub TV Ch 601/ Singtel TV Ch 420) and can be streamed on HBO GO app. Valar morghulis. What are your own wildest Game Of Thrones theories? Email us below. Produced by: Jonathan Roberts Feedback to: [email protected] Discover more ST Podcasts on: Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2PwZCYU iTunes: https://apple.co/2Lu4rPP Google podcasts: http://str.sg/googlestbt Website: http://str.sg/stpodcastsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Health Check Ep 8: Can munching on half a plate of mushrooms a week slow mental decline? 9:46 mins Synopsis: In this fortnightly podcast series on Wednesdays, The Straits Times guides you to healthier living and debunks the myths with expert guests. ST correspondent Joyce Teo and podcasting head Ernest Luis host two experts from the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine at the National University of Singapore to discuss the results of the six-year study they had conducted on more than 600 Singaporeans aged 60 and above, to see the relation between consuming mushrooms and mental decline. The study's principal investigator, Assistant Professor Feng Lei, who is from NUS' Department of Psychological Medicine, and Dr Irwin Cheah - a senior research fellow at the NUS Department of Biochemistry - are asked the following questions: 1. Can consuming more than two portions (300g or half a plate) of mushrooms each week, reduce the risk of having mild cognitive impairment? 2. It can help with Alzheimer's, but how about Parkinson's disease?  3. The study focused on six types of mushrooms commonly eaten in Singapore. How about others like portobello?  Mushrooms contain high levels of a compound known as ergothioneine. The compound acts as an antioxidant and an anti-inflammatory agent, and can protect brain cells from damage. Produced by: Joyce Teo and Ernest Luis Edited by: Adam Azlee Follow more Health Check podcasts and rate us on: Spotify: http://str.sg/oeGY  Apple Podcasts: http://str.sg/oeXP  Google Podcasts: http://str.sg/oeLN  Playlist: https://str.sg/Jw7R  Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts  Feedback to: [email protected] See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Did we watch the right movie? Despite the mountains of praise for Shazam!, Jonathan Roberts doesn't feel the spark. Meanwhile, Cheow Sue-Ann goes for the much cosier Thai rom-com Friend Zone starring Naphat Siangsomboon and Pimchanok Luevisadpaibu. (Apologies to all Thai speakers for the attempted pronunciation). Produced by: Jonathan Roberts Subscribe, like and rate Double Feature on  iTunes: str.sg/oeXh Google Podcast: str.sg/oXeZ or Spotify: str.sg/oeGx Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts Feedback to: [email protected]  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Celeb Chats Ep 7: Chef Julien Royer of Odette on his feat of topping Asia's 50 Best Restaurants list 6:09 mins Synopsis: In this podcast series, The Straits Times features the best chats with the creators and stars of music, film, books, theatre, food, and more. Owner and chef Julien Royer speaks to food writer Eunice Quek about the "insane week" he has experienced since Odette won top place in the Asia's 50 Best Restaurants list, and how he plans to go even further in his culinary adventures in Asia. Produced by: Eunice Quek and John Lui Follow Celeb Chats podcasts and rate us on: Spotify: http://str.sg/oeGq Apple Podcasts: http://str.sg/oeXg Google podcasts: http://str.sg/oeGQ Playlist: https://str.sg/Ji5X Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts Feedback to: [email protected] See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Life Picks Ep 29: What to do in Singapore April 4-18: The Guilty (film); Chen Wen Hsi exhibition (art) 6:44 mins Synopsis: Every Thursday, The Straits Times highlights the best films, concerts, restaurants and arts events you can catch in Singapore over the coming weeks. This week, Melissa Sim hosts colleague John Lui, who recommends Danish thriller The Guilty, as well as Toh Wen Li, who tells us about an exhibition featuring the works of pioneer Singapore artist Chen Wen Hsi. The exhibition takes place at his former home at 5 Kingsmead Road, from April 12 to May 3 (noon to 7.30pm daily). Look out for the two murals done by Chen. Produced by: Melissa Sim and Ernest Luis Edited by: Adam Azlee Subscribe, like and rate Life Picks on:   Spotify: http://str.sg/oeGc   iTunes: http://str.sg/oeXg   Google podcasts: http://str.sg/o8Gx   Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts   Feedback to: [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Money Hacks Ep 39: How to be happier in life by being less of a financial hoarder 11:18 mins Synopsis: Every Monday, The Straits Times and The Business Times break down financial tips so you can take action after listening to our podcast episodes. Our guest is Dr William Wan, the general secretary of the Singapore Kindness Movement, and he has advice of a different type, rather than hard money-making or saving strategies. He warns against financial hoarding by outlining four points in this episode: 1. "Make all you can, save all you can and give all you can." - applying John Wesley's dictum to stewardship of your own finances. (1:50) 2. In making a will, and if you are more capable financially, consider not just the benefit of your family members, but also blessing charities and other needy organisations whose missions resonate with you. (5:10) 3. In your retirement years, consider spending a bit more on yourself to enjoy the fruits of your labour. Take vacations and enjoy some of the comforts of life. No point in hoarding all for your children, for example. (6:07) 4. Live above, within or below your means. Living above will burden you with debts. Living within is usually just about spending on yourselves. But living below will ensure you have some to share with others, and that can be a good principle to strive for during your working years. (7:01) Dr Wan's new book - Through The Valley, The Art of Living and Leaving Well - is out in major bookstores or online. Check ST Press' Facebook page. Produced by: Ernest Luis and Christopher Lim Edited by: Adam Azlee Like, subscribe and rate our Money Hacks podcast on:   Spotify: http://str.sg/oeGN   iTunes: http://str.sg/oeXe   Google podcasts: http://str.sg/oeGd   Feedback to: [email protected] Do note: Any financial or investment information in this podcast is for use in Singapore only and is intended to be for your general information. Any particular investment or decision should only be made after consulting with a fully qualified financial adviser.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Iconoclast director Tim Burton is back with the latest live action remake of a 'classic' Disney feature. It's the elephant who could fly, Dumbo. Jonathan Roberts is joined by The New Paper's Joanne Soh to discuss whether this films feels like a Burton joint, or if it is case of visuals over story... Produced by: Jonathan Roberts Subscribe, like and rate Double Feature on  iTunes: str.sg/oeXh Google Podcast: str.sg/oXeZ or Spotify: str.sg/oeGx Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts Feedback to: [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pop Vultures (Season 1: Ep 5) March 15: How China's crackdown on period dramas has hit TV show Yanxi Palace 22:31 mins Synopsis: A podcast by The Straits Times that examines all the ins and outs of pop culture, be it Asian entertainment or Hollywood. The Story of Yanxi Palace may have been a huge global hit, but China has now banned such shows from being aired, claiming they distort history and promote decadence and backstabbing, among other things. How much do dramas like Yanxi and Ruyi's Royal Love in the Palace stick to fact, and how much is fantasy? Should the crackdown on such shows end, or will they, like the Step Empress Hoifa-Nara, be banished to the cold palace forever? Pop Vultures spill the (Chinese) tea! Here's what they cover: - How big The Story of Yanxi Palace was, and how the state is cracking down on it (0.57) - Reasons why palace period dramas have been banned by the Chinese government (2:25) - Ramifications of the crackdown - reduced production of period pieces (4:20) - How true to history are these dramas? E.g Qianlong's (乾隆皇帝) Step-Empress Hoifa-Nara (继皇后) and her downfall (4:55) - Ridiculous portrayal of medical treatments (fertility soups?) and science (blood-mixing as paternity tests 滴血认亲) in palace intrigue dramas (6:49) - Real-life events that seem too dramatic to be true (Empress Dowager Cixi 慈禧太后 VS Concubine Zhen 珍妃) (9:52) - Palace intrigue dramas' attention to detail in fashion and accessories such as a pearl-encrusted cape (云肩) that Noble Consort Gao wears, and why such details are close to history (12:20) - Why are there so many dramas about the Qing Dynasty (清朝)? (15:03) - Our thoughts on the censorship and increasingly tight ban on period dramas and why it's a bad move (17:03) Produced by: Jan Lee, Yeo Sam Jo and Ernest Luis Edited by: Yeo Sam Jo Feedback to: [email protected] [email protected]@sph.com.sg Spotify: http://str.sg/otU9 Apple Podcasts: http://str.sg/oyLi Google Podcasts: http://str.sg/oyLw Website: http://str.sg/stpodcastsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Life Picks Ep 28: What to do in S'pore March 28 to April 4: Odette & Alt pizza (food); Rubber Girl On The Loose (play) 11:29 mins Synopsis: Every Thursday, The Straits Times highlights the best films, concerts, restaurants and arts events you can catch in Singapore over the coming weeks. This week, Melissa Sim hosts colleague Olivia Ho, who recommends Rubber Girl On The Loose, a play co-produced by Cake as part of The Esplanade's The Studios series, as well as Eunice Quek, who talks about fine dining French restaurant Odette, which was recently ranked No. 1 on Asia's 50 Best Restaurants 2019 list. She also recommends new flavours at Alt Pizza, which stands out because of its sourdough crust. Produced by: Melissa Sim and Ernest Luis Edited by: Adam Azlee Subscribe, like and rate Life Picks on:   Spotify: http://str.sg/oeGc   iTunes: http://str.sg/oeXg   Google podcasts: http://str.sg/o8Gx   Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts   Feedback to: [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Game Of Two Halves Ep 29: Senior and young Lions roaring again; Spygate in the Singapore Premier League Time: 13m 59s Synopsis: A Game of Two Halves is The Straits Times' weekly sports podcast that is out every Tuesday. In an all-local episode of the podcast, ST sports correspondent Sazali Abdul Aziz and assistant sports editor Rohit Brijnath talk about Singapore football rediscovering its mojo, with the senior national team and Under-22 side punching above their weight by holding higher-ranked opponents during the international break. Sazali and Rohit also discuss the "Spygate" saga that took place in the Singapore Premier League. Geylang International wrote a complaint to the Football Association of Singapore alleging two teams spied on their training sessions before games - and why such tactics should be frowned upon, even if a rule was not broken. Produced by: Sazali Abdul Aziz and Ernest Luis Edited by: Adam Azlee Subscribe, like and rate A Game of Two Halves:   On Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2PwZCYU   On iTunes: http://str.sg/o8MK On Google podcasts: http://str.sg/oXeS On website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts Feedback to: [email protected]  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Money Hacks Ep 38: Make compound interest your best financial friend if you're in your 30s 10:23 mins Synopsis: Every Monday, The Straits Times and The Business Times break down financial tips so you can take action after listening to our podcast episodes. Aggregate Asset Management is a fund management house that focuses exclusively on equities, also known as stocks. The company was first launched in Singapore in December 2012, and was the first local fund house to adopt a zero-management-fee model, charging only a performance fee. We chat with co-founders and executive directors Wong Seak Eng, Kevin Tok and Eric Kong about how you can retire earlier with a bigger retirement income by the age of 60 if if you plan as early as your 20s. For example, if your portfolio returns in equities or stocks are 10% a year, the Rule of 72 calculator - which means how many years it takes you to double your money - shows that 72 divided by 10, equals doubling your portfolio's value in seven years. So if you invest $1 at the age of 30, it can become $2 when you're 37, $4 by 44, and $16 by the age of 58. On paper, they explain that you have many seven-year cycles to go even if you're in your 30s, to maximise the power of compound interest. Are you also aware of transaction costs, brokerage or custodian fees? Do know they can also eat into your stock investment profits. Produced by: Ernest Luis and Christopher Lim Edited by: Adam Azlee Like, subscribe and rate our Money Hacks podcast on:   Spotify: http://str.sg/oeGN   iTunes: http://str.sg/oeXe   Google podcasts: http://str.sg/oeGd   Feedback to: [email protected]   Do note: Any financial or investment information in this podcast is for use in Singapore only and is intended to be for your general information. Any particular investment or decision should only be made after consulting with a fully qualified financial adviser.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jordan Peele is back after his near-perfect debut of Get Out. And this time he's doubling down in that Us is a horror film about doppelgangers. And occasional rabbits. Jonathan Roberts and Cheow Sue-Ann discuss the horror movie (spoiler zone at the 9.30 mark), marvel at the acting of Lupita Nyong'o and wonder just how many YouTube video essays this will spawn. They also have some recommendations for those not going out.. Produced by: Jonathan Roberts Subscribe, like and rate Double Feature on  iTunes: str.sg/oeXh Google Podcast: str.sg/oXeZ or Spotify: str.sg/oeGx Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts Feedback to: [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Life Picks Ep 27 Season 2 (March 21): Feasting along Keong Saik Road and previewing the Pet Shop Boys' concert 6:50 mins Synopsis: Every Thursday, The Straits Times highlights the best films, concerts, restaurants and arts events you can catch in Singapore over the coming weeks. This week, Melissa Sim hosts colleague Tan Hsueh Yun, who recommends a host of good eats along Keong Saik Road. It used to be a seedy red-light district but is now filled with hip bars and restaurants. Also, Boon Chan chats with us about the upcoming Pet Shop Boys concert. The British duo will hold their concert in Singapore on March 26. Produced by: Melissa Sim and Ernest Luis Edited by: Adam Azlee Subscribe, like and rate Life Picks on:   Spotify: http://str.sg/oeGc   iTunes: http://str.sg/oeXg   Google podcasts: http://str.sg/o8Gx   Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts   Feedback to: [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Game of Two Halves Ep 28: G.O.A.T Messi and Singapore's marathon record-setter Soh Rui Yong 11:51 mins Synopsis: A Game of Two Halves is The Straits Times' weekly sports podcast that is out every Tuesday. This week, Sazali Abdul Aziz and Wang Meng Meng pay tribute to Lionel Messi after the Barcelona man's stupendous hat-trick against Real Betis in the Spanish La Liga. They discuss whether it is the Argentinian superstar, or a certain Portuguese peacock, who is truly the "G.O.A.T" (Greatest of All Time). In the second half of this episode, the ST sports correspondents also talk about national marathoner Soh Rui Yong breaking the 24-year-old national record in Seoul over the weekend, as well as new-fangled sports like breakdancing, kitesurfing, skateboarding and sport climbing, that will feature at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Produced by: Sazali Abdul Aziz and Ernest Luis Edited by: Adam Azlee Subscribe, like and rate A Game of Two Halves:   On Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2PwZCYU   On iTunes: http://str.sg/o8MK On Google podcasts: http://str.sg/oXeS On website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts Feedback to: [email protected]  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.