Mike Helfman's Curiosity

In this episode of Mike Helfman’s Curiosity, we explore the mind of Daniel Cerventus Lim — the Super Connector behind TEDxKL and the massive "Entrepreneurs and Startups in Malaysia" community. From scalping Hello Kitty dolls at age 16 to building the infrastructure for Malaysia’s AI future, Daniel brings decades of insight on community building, tech trends, and the hidden biodiversity o...

In this episode of Mike Helfman’s Curiosity, we explore the mind of Abbi Kanthasamy — CEO of Domus Vita Design (Tempur-Sealy licensee) and Founder & Chairman of The Cinnamon Group. From designing spaces that feel like home to building restaurants like Bocado, Natalina, and Frank’s, Abbi brings decades of insight on culture, brand, and leadership in hospitality. From the global furniture indust...

In this episode of Mike Helfman’s Curiosity, we dive into the mind of Vikneswaran “Vikar” Veerasundar — the creative force behind VikarWorld, one of Malaysia’s most iconic YouTube comedy channels. From posting relatable skits on Malaysian culture to landing his breakout acting role in the hit horror film Pulau, Vikar shares an honest and hilarious look at how to build a career from pure creativity...

In this episode of Mike Helfman’s Curiosity, we explore the mind of Ghaz Abu Bakar — one of Malaysia’s most acclaimed film directors and cinematographers, known for Polis Evo, Bulan dan Pria Terhebat, and Tokan. From being camera-shy to becoming a SONY Cine Pro Ambassador, Ghaz shares an unfiltered look at what it takes to bring Malaysian stories to global screens. We discuss creative risks in fil...

In this episode of Mike Helfman’s Curiosity, we explore the mind of George Bell — a UK‑born long‑term expat who has spent years living in Japan and Malaysia. From navigating rigid social norms and loneliness to finding belonging across cultures, George shares a candid, practical look at what it really takes to build a life abroad. We discuss Japan’s 90s‑era office reality, tourist vs. resident cul...

In this episode of Mike Helfman’s Curiosity, we dive into the hard truths with Ciprian Bratu — a researcher, and founder of Bratu Capital, a financial planning consultancy. From helping people future-proof their finances, Ciprian reveals why most people will never build wealth — and exactly how to escape that trap. We discuss the biggest money mistakes expats and professionals make, why savings al...

In this sequel episode of Mike Helfman’s Curiosity, we welcome back Ben Bagg — entrepreneur, storyteller, and returning guest from Episode 12. From early hustles to global ventures, Ben shares how the digital world manipulates us — and what AI means for the future of entrepreneurship. We dive into social media’s hidden influence, the challenges of building in Asia, the AI revolution transforming N...

In this episode of Mike Helfman’s Curiosity, we explore the mind of Dr. Gabriel Peter Salgo — a globally experienced physician and medical communicator with a career spanning Europe and Asia. From training in Germany to practicing in Malaysia, Dr. Salgo offers a rare perspective on the differences in healthcare systems, the myths that persist in medicine, and the future of patient care in a rapidl...

In this episode of Mike Helfman's Curiosity, we explore the mind of Joseph Chin — a KL-based AI entrepreneur behind Docu and a key community leader at AI Tinkerers KL. From the isolation of startup life to the power of building communities, Joseph shares a deeply personal and practical look at what it takes to innovate in today's AI-driven world. We discuss his early challenges, the origin of AI T...

In this episode of Mike Helfman's Curiosity, we dive into the wild world of Rupert from Rupert’s Reptiles, a passionate adventurer on a mission to document every snake species in Southeast Asia. From childhood fascinations with frogs and insects to getting chased by elephants, bitten by snakes, and surviving treacherous jungle conditions—Rupert shares it all. This conversation blends wild stor...

In this episode of Mike Helfman's Curiosity, Dr. Ramesh Rajentheran , a leading expert in men's health, shares his journey from physician to healthcare entrepreneur. He discusses crucial aspects of men's well-being, including andropause, sexual health, and the importance of a holistic approach. Plus, discover the innovative technology he's using to improve access to quality care an...

Ever wondered what it takes to build a multi-million dollar business? In this explosive episode of Mike Helfman's Curiosity, we sit down with serial entrepreneur Ben Bagg, whose journey is as wild as it is inspiring. From his incredibly resourceful childhood hustles selling jam donuts and cigarettes to navigating the complexities of building multiple companies in Asia's booming markets, Be...

In Episode 12 of Mike's Curiosity, we delve into the world of high-end Malaysian cuisine with Darren Tio, the chef-owner of the two-Michelin-starred Dewakan and the newly opened Beu. Join us for a fascinating conversation exploring his culinary journey and the innovative use of local, exotic ingredients. Darren shares his deeply personal journey, revealing how his early experiences cooking with fa...

In Episode 11 of Mike's Curiosity, we delve into the world of contrast therapy with Richard Prentice, founder of Rise and Plunge, Malaysia's premier contrast therapy spa. Join us for a fascinating conversation exploring the transformative power of cold plunging and sauna. Richard shares his deeply personal journey, revealing how his experience with multiple miscarriages and the pursuit of...

In Episode 010 of Mike’s Curiosity, we sit down with the unstoppable Sarimah Ibrahim—singer, actress, martial artist, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate—for a raw, unfiltered conversation about life, near-death, and everything in between. Mike and Sarimah take you on a journey that begins with her black belt in Goju Ryu karate and winds through her experiences in the entertainment industry,...

n Episode 009 of Mike's Curiosity, we go deep with Jared Lee—a Malaysian filmmaker, YouTuber, and creative force—whose journey through cancer, content creation, and cutting-edge film tech is nothing short of cinematic. Mike and Jared kick things off with psionics and UFOs (yes, really), before diving headfirst into the evolution of Southeast Asia’s indie filmmaking scene. Jared opens up about laun...

In Episode 008 of Mike's Curiosity, we dive deep into the world of alternative investments, AI disruption, and Southeast Asia's booming startup scene with Kevin Brocklin—a venture capitalist and tech thinker who's betting big on the region’s future. Mike and Kevin explore why rare assets like whiskey, vintage art, and collectibles might be the smartest hedge against a future where AI d...

In Episode 007 of Mike's Curiosity, we explore the intersection of entrepreneurship, entertainment, and longevity with John Langan—a visionary businessman who went from UCLA student life to launching some of Southeast Asia’s most exclusive nightclubs. His journey is a masterclass in adaptability, innovation, and understanding ever-changing market trends. In this episode, John shares his insigh...

In Episode 006 of Mike's Curiosity, we dive into the dynamic world of creativity and holistic wellness with Daniella Sya—a rising Malaysian actress, model, and radio host whose vibrant journey in the entertainment industry redefines the art of storytelling. Daniella’s innovative approach to performance, honed through her diverse roles on stage and screen, is infused with heartfelt passion and...

In Episode 005 of Mike's Curiosity, we dive into the dynamic world of creativity and holistic wellness with Brendon Hansford—a globally recognized choreographer, creative director, film director, and certified breathwork coach. Brendon’s trailblazing approach seamlessly fuses captivating movement with transformative breathwork techniques, empowering individuals to harness the power of mindful...

In Episode 004 of Mike's Curiosity, we step onto the greens with Francois Van Zyl, the renowned PGA coach and owner of Gemini Golf Academy at Wedge. His innovative approach to golf instruction fuses classic techniques with cutting-edge technology—like TrackMan, Hackmotion, Capto, and Sportsbox AI—to elevate every aspect of your game. Francois shares his expertise on swing mechanics, course man...

In Episode 003 of Mike's Curiosity, we dive into the world of education, innovation, and conservation with Christian Ogle, the visionary behind SEASFiRE. His pioneering work in developing alternative educational programs integrates science education, liberal and media arts, media production, and conservation campaigns centered around tropical coral reefs. Christian shares his insights on innovativ...

In Episode 002 of Mike's Curiosity, we dive into the world of business, expats, and AI with Dr. Hamizah Abd Hamid, a distinguished Lecturer in International Business and Entrepreneurship at the National University of Malaysia (UKM). Dr. Hamizah brings a unique perspective on how global business landscapes are evolving, the challenges and opportunities for expats, and the transformative role of AI...

In Episode 001 of Mike's Curiosity, we sit down with Kevin Brockland, Founder & Managing Partner of Indelible Ventures. Both Michael and Kevin are heavyweights in their respective fields and shared their invaluable knowledge and experience, sparking a dynamic dialogue on how AI is reshaping industries, influencing our daily lives, and even rewiring the fabric of society itself via the tran...