Education

CLOSER with Rachel Lim

CLOSER with Rachel Lim is about the conversations beneath the surface.

Rachel sits down with people who fascinate her to explore not just what they’ve done, but what has shaped who they are: the experiences, relationships, contradictions, failures, beliefs and questions that have made them who they are today.

Alongside long-form conversations are personal reflections from Rachel on what she is learning, unlearning and seeing differently in her own life. There may not always be a clear answer.. but perhaps the point is to come away seeing someone differently, seeing ourselves differently, and feeling a little closer.

To ourselves.

To each other.

To what matters.

Latest Episodes:

#23: Respectful Parenting with Janet Lansbury Sep 10, 2024

Show notes

In this special 10-minute episode, I chat with Janet Lansbury, a leading voice in respectful parenting, about the power of empathetic caregiving. We explore the crucial roles parents play in creating a nurturing environment, the art of observing and waiting to let children grow, and practical strategies for fostering strong parent-child and sibling relationships. Janet shares actionable tips to help you build deeper, more meaningful connections with your children and enrich your parenting journey. Join us for an inspiring and insightful conversation! ——— 00:00 Introduction 01:00 Respectful Parenting: Our Roles as Parents 02:26 Learning To Observe and Wait 06:59 Cultivating a Nurturing Parent-Child Relationship 08:18 Promoting Positive Sibling-Relationships 09:50 Closing Follow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/ Follow Janet Lansbury here: https://www.instagram.com/janetlansbury/

#22: Voice for the Voiceless: Sadhana Rai’s Pro Bono Journey Sep 03, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, I sit down with Sadhana Rai, whose transformative journey from a high-powered commercial disputes lawyer to a devoted pro bono advocate is both inspiring and heart-rending. Sadhana shares her early life experiences in a modest family, where the seeds of justice and advocacy were planted. Her story is a poignant reminder of the power of introspection and the courage it takes to pursue a path that truly feeds the soul, not just the status quo. Through the lens of some of her most challenging and impactful cases, Sadhana opens up about the realities of working with underprivileged clients who have altered her view of justice and humanity. Each case, each client, each story brings with it a heavy toll but also a profound lesson in resilience and empathy. Sadhana’s recounting of these experiences invites us to reflect on the deeper implications of inequality and our role in addressing it. This episode is not just a narrative of legal battles; it’s a call to awaken to the struggles and injustices around us. Sadhana challenges each of us to not only recognize our shared humanity but to act on it, fostering a society that values compassion and justice equally. Her journey and the lessons she imparts are a powerful testament to the impact one person can have when they choose to make a difference where it truly counts. ——— 00:00 Introduction 00:35 Get to Know Sadhana Rai 02:35 Sadhana’s Upbringing & Background 06:39 Leaving a Prestigious Job & Discovering Pro Bono Work 10:30 Navigating Challenges as a Female Lawyer 14:53 The Hardships in the Legal Profession 21:00 Diving into Criminal Law and Pro Bono Work 27:37 A Heartbreaking Dive into the Chin Swee Road Case 33:49 Going Above & Beyond as Community Lawyers 36:23 The Emotional Toll of Being a Lawyer 39:14 Behind the Story of an Abandoned Dog 42:44 A Fight for Innocence & the Reconciliation of a Family 45:12 Misconceptions of Pro Bono Lawyers 47:53 Sadhana’s Most Valuable Lessons 50:23 The Important Role We All Play 54:03 Final Reflections Follow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/ Follow Pro Bono SG here: https://www.instagram.com/probonosg/ Volunteer here: https://form.jotform.com/230180689949066 Donate here: https://bit.ly/3XqV4YX

#21: Up Close & Personal: Reflections, Growth, & Honest Conversations Aug 27, 2024

Show notes

In this solo episode, I’m inviting you into a deeply personal and intimate space — one where we can reflect, grow, and have honest, heart-to-heart conversations. It’s a chance for us to connect on a more meaningful level, exploring the lessons life has been teaching me lately and how I’m finding my way through them.

In this episode, I cover:

⁠ ⁠Reflections and key takeaways from past episodes
⁠ ⁠Areas I’m currently focusing on to improve
⁠ ⁠Behind-the-scenes look at upcoming projects close to my heart
⁠ ⁠Finding clarity during seasons of uncertainty
⁠ ⁠The power of saying no to prioritize what truly matters
⁠ ⁠Two book recommendations that have shaped my journey

This isn’t just an episode; it’s a personal conversation between us, grounded in reflection, growth, and the shared journey we’re all on. I hope it resonates with you, brings comfort or inspiration, and reminds you that we’re navigating life’s twists and turns together — one step at a time 🤍

00:00 Welcome & Introduction

01:45 Catching Up with Rachel

03:11 Reflections on Key Insights from Past Episodes

12:01 Current Focus: What I’m Working on Improving

15:06 Behind the Scenes: Updates on Ongoing Projects

18:37 Navigating Uncertainty: Encouragement for Those Feeling Stuck

21:00 Book Recommendations & Personal Reflections

31:17 Closing Thoughts & Farewell

Follow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/

Books Involved:

The Obstacle Is the Way: https://a.co/d/4nkapVv

The Courage to Be Disliked: https://a.co/d/4uJeYRC

#20: From Modelling to Entrepreneurship: Valeria Lipovetsky’s Evolution & Journey Aug 20, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, I sit down with Valeria Lipovetsky, a woman whose journey from the world of modeling to the heights of entrepreneurship is nothing short of inspiring. I first met Valeria two years ago at a personal growth retreat in Ibiza, and since then, I’ve been deeply moved by her relentless drive, her commitment to self-improvement, and her ability to gracefully navigate the many roles she plays—as a mother, wife, entrepreneur, and content creator.

Together, we explore the pivotal moments that shaped Valeria’s life, from her upbringing to her career in modeling, and her bold transition into the entrepreneurial world. Valeria opens up about the challenges she faced in starting her first business, Verie. We dive into her YouTube career, where she shares how she stays true to herself amidst the pressures of public life, and what it takes to maintain authenticity in a digital age.

Valeria also offers invaluable insights into balancing work with marriage, revealing the key factors that have helped her and her husband, Gary, thrive both personally and professionally. We discuss the complexities of motherhood, the ever-present tension between ambition and contentment, and how she confronts self-doubt while striving for growth.

This episode is a deep dive into the life of a woman who is constantly evolving, learning, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a creative at heart, or someone seeking inspiration in your personal life, Valeria’s story will leave you with valuable lessons on how to define and pursue your own path to success.

00:00 Introduction

00:43 Meet Valeria Lipovetsky: A Journey of Growth

04:43 Influences and Lessons from Valeria’s Upbringing

09:52 Insights from a Modelling Career

12:21 From Content Creator to Entrepreneur: Valeria’s Evolution

15:38 Building a YouTube Empire

17:13 Staying Authentic in the Spotlight

19:17 Closing a Meaningful Chapter with Verie

22:34 The Reality of Pursuing Passion in Business

25:37 Valeria’s Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

27:36 Redefining Success: Valeria’s Perspective

28:39 Navigating Business and Marriage with Your Spouse

32:30 Resolving Conflict in Marriage

37:01 The Complexities of Motherhood

43:13 Confronting Self-Doubt

46:35 Balancing Ambition and Contentment

48:44 Valeria’s Biggest Life Lessons

51:11 Timeless Fashion Advice

52:47 Final Reflections

Follow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/

Follow Valeria Lipovetsky here: https://www.instagram.com/valerialipovetsky

#19: Crucial Skills for Couples: Insights from Relationship Experts, The Freemans Aug 13, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, I sit down with Jocelyn and Aaron Freeman, the dynamic couple behind Empowered Couples University, to explore the real challenges that every relationship faces. With over 802,000 couples served, Jocelyn and Aaron share their personal journey from navigating their own differences to becoming sought-after relationship coaches. They reveal the key skills that every couple needs but often weren't taught — how to communicate effectively, resolve conflicts, and maintain connection amidst life’s chaos.

We dive into their insights on love, partnership, and the everyday rituals that have kept their marriage strong. Whether you’re struggling with recurring arguments, balancing busy schedules, or simply looking to deepen your connection, this conversation offers practical, heartfelt advice that every couple can relate to. Tune in for an episode that’s as inspiring as it is real, and discover how to take your relationship from surviving to thriving.

00:00 Introduction

00:26 Get to Know The Freemans

02:11 Common Relationship Challenges

05:36 Practical Reconciliation Tools

08:02 Is Love Enough?

09:20 The Love Account Check-In

11:10 Repair in Relationships

13:42 Tools for Effective Communication

17:58 Identifying Your Relationship Needle Movers

19:58 Navigating Parenthood Together

26:02 Staying Connected with Your Partner

28:00 The Freemans’ Healthy Marriage Rituals

32:28 Weathering Life’s Storms Together

35:09 Encouraging a Resistant Partner

38:11 Final Thoughts

Follow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/

Follow The Freemans here: https://www.instagram.com/meet_thefreemans

#18: The Gift of a New Chapter: Janice Koh’s Wisdom from Cancer Aug 06, 2024

Show notes

In this personal and inspiring episode, I sit down with Janice Koh, a renowned Singaporean actress, to explore her courageous journey through tongue cancer. At the beginning of 2022, Janice's life was upended by a persistent ulcer that was diagnosed as cancer. Facing multiple surgeries and losing a significant part of her tongue, Janice had to redefine her identity and cope with the loss of her voice—an actor's most cherished tool. Janice candidly shares her emotional turmoil and the resilience required to navigate such life-altering changes. She reflects on finding strength in vulnerability, discovering new sources of joy, and living mindfully in the face of uncertainty. Janice delves into finding inner peace amidst chaos and the significance of suffering in personal growth. She shares her reflections on the preciousness of time, the gift of presence, and the journey of letting go of old identities to embrace new possibilities. Join me as Janice takes us on a journey of rebirth and renewal, offering a testament to the power of the human spirit. Her story is a reminder that even in our darkest moments, there is always hope and the potential for a new beginning. Whether you are facing your own struggles or seeking inspiration, Janice's journey will leave you moved, uplifted, and deeply inspired by the lessons she has learned and the wisdom she imparts. ———— 00:00 Introduction 00:26 Get To Know Janice Koh 02:00 Receiving a Cancer Diagnosis 07:34 Discovering Inner Strength 09:30 Understanding Her Diagnosis 13:08 The Habits That Grounded Her 16:03 How Cancer Transformed Janice’s Life 18:45 Redefining Herself as an Actress 26:57 The Power of Asking for Help 29:27 Experiencing a Rebirth 31:01 Her Relationship with Her Children 33:10 Advice to Her Younger Self 34:38 Balancing Faith and Doubt 35:53 Redefining Success 37:48 Embracing the Present Moment 39:05 Welcoming a New Chapter 41:09 Closing Reflections Follow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/ Follow Janice here: https://www.instagram.com/janiceymkoh

#17: Montessori Parenting: Nurturing Critical Thinkers and Lifelong Learners Jul 30, 2024

Show notes

As a parent myself, I'm always seeking ways to expand my knowledge and create a nurturing environment for Ollie and Keira. The Montessori approach has been particularly intriguing to me because of its emphasis on fostering independence, curiosity, and respect in children. By providing tools for success, encouraging their abilities, and giving them space to develop independently, the Montessori way offers a powerful alternative to conventional parenting. It helps children develop critical thinking, self-discipline, and a love for learning while maintaining a respectful and collaborative parent-child relationship.

In this episode, experienced Montessori educators and advocates Simone Davies and Junnifa Uzodike share invaluable insights on integrating Montessori principles into the daily lives of school-aged children. We explore key differences between Montessori and traditional parenting, debunk common misconceptions, and offer practical tips for cultivating respect and handling tantrums with grace.

Discover how to balance nurturing and spoiling, create meaningful connections, and bring joy into modern parenting. Simone and Junnifa also discuss the importance of co-regulation, unlearning traditional parenting practices, and adjusting to the Montessori approach.

Join us as we uncover how the Montessori way can help support our child's unique potential, develop critical thinking skills, and foster a respectful and collaborative relationship between parent and child.

00:00 Introduction

00:30 Get to know Junnifa Uzodike and Simone Davies

03:21 Montessori Parenting vs. Traditional Parenting

07:40 Misconceptions of Montessori Parenting

09:52 Cultivating Respect at Home

13:20 Handling Tantrums and Meltdowns

16:58 Spoiling vs. Nurturing Your Children

21:59 Navigating Values and Principles

26:18 Creating Connection and Joy as Modern Parents

29:18 Co-Regulation Tips with Toddlers

32:00 Unlearning Traditional Parenting

33:00 Adjusting to Montessori Parenting

36:40 Advice for Modern Parents

38:16 Final Thoughts

Follow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/

Follow Simone Davies here: https://www.instagram.com/themontessorinotebook/

Follow Junnifa Uzodike here: https://www.instagram.com/montessori_nduoma/

Purchase 'The Montessori Child' here: https://a.co/d/c2JSvQL

Purchase ‘The Montessori Baby’ here: https://a.co/d/cxAxQho

Purchase ‘The Montessori Toddler’ here: https://a.co/d/9YHKQXq

#16: From Desire to Action: Mastering the Art of Willing Change Jul 23, 2024

Show notes

Have you ever found yourself wanting to make a change in your life or career, yet feeling inexplicably stuck? You're not alone. The gap between knowing what we need to do and actually doing it is a common struggle that many face. In this episode with our in-house guest expert Joyce, we dive deep into this challenge and uncover why it's so hard to get “unstuck.”

We delve into the ‘knowing-doing gap’ and the emotional immune system, uncovering why we often resist change despite our best intentions. Joyce walks us through the immunity map, revealing how hidden commitments and limiting beliefs hold us back.

With practical strategies and personal examples, Joyce offers insights to help you bridge the gap between wanting change and making it happen. Whether you’re aiming for a career shift, better relationships, or personal growth, this episode provides the tools to move from desire to action.

Join us for an inspiring conversation on mastering the art of willing change.

00:00 Introduction

00:57 The Human Struggle with Change

02:18 The ‘Knowing-Doing Gap’

04:05 Understanding Our Emotional Immune System

05:18 Wanting Change vs. Making Change

08:18 The Immunity Map

25:53 Cultivating Courage for Change

27:37 Joyce’s Advice on Making Change

28:18 Final Thoughts

Follow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/

Get connected with Joyce: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joyce-chen-coach/

Additional resources:

[DOWNLOAD] The Immunity Map: https://bit.ly/4cTsjto
[READ] 'The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership’: https://a.co/d/fyaTVKW
[LEARN MORE] Conscious Leadership Group: https://conscious.is/

#15: Financial Freedom with Your Rich BFF: Vivian Tu's Journey and Advice Jul 16, 2024

Show notes

In this engaging episode, I sit down with financial guru and content creator Vivian Tu, known as "Your Rich BFF," to explore her inspiring journey from a hardworking immigrant family to Wall Street and ultimately to her role as a financial influencer. Vivian shares pivotal moments, such as leaving her high-paying job at JP Morgan to pursue content creation, and discusses the profound impact of her mentor on her financial habits and career trajectory. She offers insights into why financial literacy is often neglected, especially among women, and provides strategies to bridge this gap.

Vivian delves into common financial mistakes, how the pandemic reshaped her views on financial security and practical tips for maximizing earnings and overcoming the fear of investing. She also explains her belief in equity rather than equality in relationships, offering advice on how couples can strive for equity to ensure a healthy partnership.

Tune in to gain valuable financial wisdom and be inspired by Vivian's journey and insights. Whether you're starting your financial journey or looking to deepen your knowledge, this episode offers practical advice and thought-provoking discussions that will resonate with and inspire everyone.

00:00 Introduction

00:16 Get to Know Vivian Tu

01:01 Vivian Tu’s Upbringing

03:18 The Start of Vivian Tu’s Journey

08:08 3 Important Financial Lessons

11:36 Breaking Gender Stereotypes in Financial Literacy

13:12 The Most Common Financial Mistake

14:25 How To Start Investing

17:43 Overcome Your Fear of Investing

19:18 Budgeting for Investing

21:23 The Brag Book

23:05 How To Ask for a Raise

25:50 Mindset Shift for Women

27:59 Equity vs Equality in Relationships

31:06 Financial Tips for a Healthy Relationship

34:21 Vivian Tu’s Perception of True Richness

37:13 The ‘STRIP’ Method

39:21 RICH AF: Vivian Tu’s NYT Best Seller Book

41:56 Vivian Tu’s Purpose as Your Rich BFF

42:54 Talk to Your Friends About Money

45:17 Final Thoughts

Follow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/

Follow Vivian Tu here: https://www.instagram.com/your.richbff/

Purchase ‘Rich AF: The Money Mindset That Will Change Your Life’ here: https://singapore.kinokuniya.com/bw/9780241644966

#14: From Gangs to Glazes: Whye Kee’s Redemption Story Jul 09, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, I sit down with an extraordinary guest, Whye Kee, whose life story is a powerful testament to the human capacity for change, redemption, and the pursuit of new dreams. From his turbulent upbringing and experiences as a gang leader to his transformative journey in prison, Whye Kee’s path has been anything but ordinary. We delve into his early years, exploring the challenges he faced growing up amidst loan shark harassment and violence. Whye Kee shares candidly about his descent into gang life, the allure it held, and the identity he forged as a leader. Yet, it was in the darkest moments of imprisonment and his father's death that he began to question his choices and seek a different path. Discover how Whye Kee found solace and purpose in pottery, a craft that not only rekindled his childhood dreams but also paved the way for his redemption. This episode is a moving reminder that no matter how far one strays, redemption is possible. Whye Kee’s journey from gang leader to respected artist and mentor will leave us deeply moved and inspired to believe in the power of change. ———— 00:00 Introduction 00:52 Whye Kee’s Upbringing 03:50 Joining a Gang 12:01 Becoming a Gang Leader 17:04 Life Being Detained Without Trial 20:08 Life After Prison 27:22 The Hardest Wake Up Call 31:52 Discovering Pottery 34:02 Turning Points 39:26 Becoming an Assenter for Mr. Tharman 43:05 Serving the Underprivileged Youth 50:02 Honing His Craft 59:36 Transformative Power of Pottery 01:02:50 Whye Kee’s Unique Perception of Redemption 01:05:05 Internal Battles 01:07:13 Advice to His Younger Self 01:07:49 Final Thoughts Follow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/ Follow Whye Kee here: https://www.instagram.com/qipottery/

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