Most business owners treat PR as a "later" problem — a luxury for when they're bigger, or a fire extinguisher for when something's already gone wrong. Julie Chiang has spent over 30 years arguing the opposite.As founding director of APRW, one of Singapore's most enduring independent communications agencies, Julie has worked across the entire spectrum — from small lifestyle brands to Lamborghini, from five-person teams to the Ministry of Health. In this episode of EP.IC, she makes the case for PR as a discipline rather than a press-release service: what it actually costs at every tier, where AI helps (and where it quietly damages your brand), and why reputation and trust are the two things money can't buy.If you've ever wondered what separates a $3,000 contract from a $50,000 one, why your comms lead belongs at the boardroom table, or how to hire your first PR person — this one's for you.🎧 Part of our season "How to Build a Better Business."00:00 Intro00:53 Welcome to EP.IC + the "Better Business" season01:49 Meet Julie Chiang — the APRW origin story (two laptops & a fax machine)02:32 Is PR a luxury for small business owners?03:55 $3K vs $50K: what you're actually paying for across PR tiers06:20 Where comms teams fit in the AI era — the dos and don'ts10:30 How PR has evolved in 30 years: from waiting on tomorrow's news to minutes13:36 Speed as the new risk: why preparedness beats reaction14:00 Old-school vs new-school PR — what each can learn from the other15:22 133 million viewers: has reach lost its value in the social age?17:39 Advice for newer founders: how to earn real media traction19:35 Why your comms person belongs at the boardroom table20:17 Proving PR's value in numbers — reputation and trust as growth21:55 PR as an investment, not a cost center or crisis hotline24:25 Agency vs in-house, and giving PR the time it needs25:19 The top 3 traits to look for in your first PR hire26:15 ⚡ The EP.IC Questionnaire (rapid fire)Key TakeawaysPR isn't a luxury — it's timing. Wait until you're "bigger" or until something breaks, and you've already missed the window to build credibility and visibility early.Budget should match complexity, not status. A lower-tier retainer buys execution (press releases, a pitch or two, coordination). Higher tiers buy senior thinking, strategy, media relations, and crisis/government work. Bigger budgets don't guarantee better people.AI's danger zone is mistaking speed for strategy. It writes well — often so well it sounds the same. Use it for research, organizing thinking, and efficiency, but never let it communicate on your behalf without human accountability and fact-checking.Time is no longer a luxury in comms. One post can become a reputational issue within minutes. If you don't shape your narrative, the market — or the internet — will do it for you.Reputation and trust are growth. They're the two things money can't buy, which is why a comms lead belongs at the table — not the last call when trouble hits.PR is a journey, not a transaction. A partner, not a vendor. Don't expect instant results; align on objectives and give it time.Hire for the journey: commitment for the long haul, resilience amid constant change, and an open mind willing to try again when something doesn't work.Connect with Julie & APRW🌐 Website: https://www.aprw.asiaConnect with EP.IC📺 Subscribe to @epicpodcastingNew episodes every season. This one is part of How to Build a Better Business.#PublicRelations #PR #PRStrategy #Branding #Reputation #Communications #Singapore #APRW #SmallBusiness #Startup #Marketing #BusinessGrowth #AIinPR #Founders #EPICPodcast #HowToBuildABetterBusiness

Thinking of buying a franchise? Scaling your brand overseas?Or just curious about what's actually driving business growth in Asia rightnow? This episode breaks it all down.Edric sits down with Gan Shee Wen, President of FLASingapore and founder of furniture retail brand Commune, to unpack the state of franchising and licensing in 2026 and what it means for you as a businessowner.Timestamps0:50 Welcome and intro 2:14 Introducing Gan Shee Wen and Franchising &Licensing Association 4:03 The franchising landscape in Singapore 2026 5:14 Why franchising is a smart model in a tough businessclimate 6:24 How digitalization and AI are reshaping franchising 7:38 What consumers want now (post-COVID, post-AI) 10:07 Should franchisors adopt tech? How to think about itstrategically 12:15 What's up and what's down in the Asian market 14:42 Physical retail: consolidate, don't just expand 15:55 Omnichannel is now a must-have 16:37 Underrated sectors: furniture and why it's not asunset industry 18:18 New innovations in franchising and licensing 20:03 AI and customer service: bots for low-tier, humans forhigh-tier 21:38 FLA's training courses and what's coming next 22:51 How fast is tech adoption in the world of Franchising?24:32 Why approach FLA first before signing anything 26:20 Protecting your secrets: franchising vs licensing 30:33 Singapore has no franchise law 36:30 What to expect at FL Asia 2026 40:57 How to get in touch with FLA Key TakeawaysThe F&B franchise boom is real and underreported Morebusinesses are opening than closing. The closures make the news; the openingsdon't. Don't let the noise fool you.Singapore = your Asian launchpad Setting up inSingapore gives your brand global credibility and a tested, multiculturalmarket. If you can make it here, the rest of Southeast Asia gets easier.Franchising reduces your risk (but it's not passiveincome) Whether you're the brand owner or the buyer, franchising lowersbarriers but you still need to know how it works. Don't go in blind.AI and tech are changing the playbook fast FromAI-generated SOPs to smart CRM tools, franchisors are using technology tomanage and support franchisees better. Adoption timelines: 12 to 24 months frombrand HQ down.Omnichannel is no longer optional Physical-onlyretail is struggling. Online-only is limiting. The winners are running both,using physical stores as experience centres.Licensing is an underrated growth model Can't shipfresh products overseas? License your recipe, protect your IP, earn royalties.More manufacturers should be exploring this.Singapore has no dedicated franchise law and that's aproblem Your contracts are only protected under general contract law. Shee Wen is pushing for greater regulation and transparency. Until then, know whatyou're signing.Action Points for Business OwnersConnect and Take Action🎙️ Enjoyed this episode?Subscribe to the EP.IC Podcast so you never miss a conversation on building abetter business. Leave us a comment and let us know your biggest takeaway!🔗 For more information onthe Franchising & Licensing Association of Singapore, visit their website: www.flasingapore.org📋 Register forFranchising & Licensing Asia 2026: https://franchiselicenseasia.com/

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: [email protected]: fractionalfirst.comProduced by: Kaleoscopic Communications Pte Ltd | www.kaleoscopic.comFilmed at: Poddster SingaporeHost: Edric Poon ([email protected])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.

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

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

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

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 [email protected] 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

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.

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

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