Host Introduction
Q: What is the focus of the Brick Mortar Cloud podcast?
A: The podcast explores inspiring scaling stories in the F&B and retail industries. Produced by StaffAny, it is hosted by Jansen, a co-founder of StaffAny, who dives deep into the challenges and successes of business leaders.
Guest Introduction
Q: Who is the guest in this episode, and what is his role?
A: Sebastian Ang, the entrepreneur behind Mama Diam, Synthesis, and Lou Shang, joins the show. He is a passionate leader known for his innovative concepts in the F&B industry.
Q: What makes Sebastian’s story unique?
A: Despite losing his job during the COVID-19 pandemic, Sebastian turned his passion for food and resilience into creating unique dining experiences that celebrate nostalgia and wellness.
Early Beginnings
Q: What was Sebastian’s career before F&B?
A: Sebastian worked in the events industry until the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted his career in 2021.
Q: What motivated him to start his first business?
A: After losing his job, he decided to use his savings to explore his passion for cooking and started his first venture, A Sticky Situation.
Q: What challenges did his first business face?
A: The business struggled during heightened COVID restrictions and eventually closed, teaching Sebastian valuable lessons for his next ventures.
Mama Diam’s Success
Q: What is Mama Diam?
A: Mama Diam is a speakeasy bar and restaurant located at Prinsep Street. It blends Singapore’s nostalgic culture with unique dining experiences.
Q: How did Sebastian create Mama Diam on a budget?
A: He minimized costs by sourcing secondhand furniture, designing QR code menus, and focusing on delivering an exceptional customer experience.
Q: What makes Mama Diam unique?
A: Beyond the nostalgic concept, patrons are treated to interactive elements like local souvenirs and childhood games, making it a memorable experience for tourists and locals alike.
Synthesis and Lou Shang
Q: What inspired Synthesis?
A: Synthesis is a wellness-themed restaurant and bar inspired by traditional Chinese medicine. Its menu features herb-infused dishes and cocktails based on the five elements: wood, fire, water, earth, and metal.
Q: How does Synthesis cater to modern audiences?
A: By combining traditional TCM principles with contemporary dining, Synthesis appeals to health-conscious individuals and those seeking unique, immersive experiences.
Q: What is Lou Shang’s concept?
A: Lou Shang, meaning “upstairs” in Mandarin, is a café by day and bar by night, designed to evoke the charm of an old-school mamak shop while offering a modern twist.
Leadership and Growth
Q: What challenges does Sebastian face as a leader?
A: Managing a team of 50 without a dedicated HR team has been a significant challenge, prompting Sebastian to implement tools like StaffAny to streamline operations.
Q: How does he foster a positive work environment?
A: By understanding his team’s needs, setting clear KPIs, and aligning them with rewards to motivate and retain employees.
Q: How does Sebastian approach team building?
A: He emphasizes the importance of hiring the right people, creating opportunities for growth, and fostering a culture of accountability and mutual respect.
Future Plans
Q: What are Sebastian’s upcoming projects?
A: He plans to launch a chain of modern herbal drink bars that reimagine traditional beverages in trendy and accessible ways.
Q: What is his long-term vision for the business?
A: To establish his concepts as must-visit destinations in Singapore while expanding internationally, bringing his unique blend of nostalgia and wellness to a global audience.
Final Advice
Q: What advice does Sebastian have for aspiring F&B entrepreneurs?
A: “Just do it.” Don’t overthink; take the leap and learn from the journey.
Q: How does he advise handling challenges in F&B?
A: Embrace failures as learning opportunities, stay resilient, and focus on delivering value to your customers.
Rapid Fire Questions
Q: Who inspires Sebastian in his work?
A: His mentors and the unique concepts of other F&B brands.
Q: What’s his favorite dish at his restaurants?
A: The power fun at Synthesis and the local-inspired cocktails at Mama Diam and Lou Shang.
Q: Is Sebastian open to mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs?
A: Yes, he’s happy to share his experiences through informal chats and advice sessions.
Closing Remarks
Q: What final message does Sebastian have for listeners?
A: F&B is challenging but incredibly fulfilling for those with a passion for food and people. If you’re considering it, take the leap! And remember, the key to success lies in perseverance and constantly adapting to change.