Give It To Me Strait

About Give It To Me Strait

Welcome to "Give It To Me Strait," the podcast where nuanced views and candid conversations come together. We are just two Singaporeans who met 17 years ago in the army and through shared heartaches in recent years has rekindled our friendship over time. In this podcast, we discuss love, life, and everything in between, addressing even the toughest topics with a dash of humor. Join us as we share stories, laugh, and explore the many facets of life that connect us all.

Publisher

Tim Oh, Benedict Tan

Category

comedy

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

10 Apr 2024

Latest episode

7 Feb 2026

Latest episodes

19 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   7 Feb 2026

   Episode Eighteen: Gay Chaos - Can Exes be Friends?

   In the season finale of Give It To Me Strait, we tackle the ultimate relationship landmine: the exes. Can you ever truly be friends with your ex? If yes, under what conditions? And is this something only the gays do… or can the straights survive it too? Joining Tim are Kelvin, affectionately known as SaltyPotato, and Dave from Spain/ Japan, as they unpack boundaries, emotional maturity, jealousy, trust, and whether staying close to an ex is healthy growth or certified gay mess. Tim opens up about maintaining an extremely close friendship with his ex of eight years, someone who still hangs out regularly with Tim and his current partner, Kelvin. So… is this progressive, evolved love? Or a walking red flag? From how gay relationships differ from straight ones, to where the lines actually are (and who gets to draw them), this episode asks the uncomfortable questions we usually avoid. We end the season exactly how we started it: honest, funny, slightly unhinged, and high energy. Expect laughter, giggles, bold opinions — and absolutely no tears.

2. 

   31 Jan 2026

   Episode Seventeen: Coming Home to Yourself

   In this unforgettable episode of Give It To Me Strait, we sit down with Shawn Lim, queer and gender fluid founder, creator, podcaster, and writer behind @mediumshawn, for a raw and deeply moving conversation about identity, resilience, and the courage to live authentically. Shawn’s story begins in their teenage years. Arrested twice by the age of sixteen, involved in gang fights, and familiar with detention, caning, and time in a boys’ home, their early life was marked by anger, confusion, and survival. These experiences would later shape their understanding of self, masculinity, and belonging, forming the foundation of a journey few would expect. In this episode, Shawn reflects on discovering their sexuality, coming to terms with being gender fluid and pansexual, and the emotional weight of living a life that did not fully align with who they were. They speak candidly about moments of deep shame, despair, and the time they came heartbreakingly close to ending their own life. What ultimately changed everything was love and acceptance. Shawn shares how the unwavering support of their wife became the powerful force behind their decision to come out and live honestly. Today, as a parent, they explain why embracing their identity is essential not just for themselves, but for how they and their wife raise their child, and for the values they hope to pass on. This is a tear jerking, honest conversation about healing, parenthood, and choosing to stay. A story of survival, growth, and authenticity that stays with you long after the episode ends. Content note: This episode discusses self harm and suicide.

3. 

   25 Jan 2026

   Episode Sixteen: Third Culture Kid

   What does it mean to belong everywhere and nowhere at the same time? This week, we sit down with Nicholas Chan, former Managing Director of Tatler Asia and TimeOut, to talk about growing up as a Third Culture Kid and how that shapes identity, ambition, relationships, and the way we see success. From moving between Sydney, Vancouver, Berlin and Singapore, to navigating reverse culture shock, changing risk tolerance, and redefining priorities in midlife, Nicholas opens up about the tension between hustle and fulfilment, work as identity, and learning to slow down without losing yourself. We also unpack vulnerability in your 40s, the pressure to keep chasing your younger self, and why fitness, brands, and nostalgia play such a powerful role in how we try to stay relevant. It’s an honest conversation about growth, letting go, and figuring out who you are when the labels start to fall away. If you’ve ever felt culturally fluid, career-driven but restless, or caught between who you were and who you’re becoming, this one will hit close to home.

4. 

   22 Nov 2025

   Episode Fifteen: Reinventing Shareen Wong: When Success Isn’t Enough

   On this episode of Tim and Ben, Give It To Me Strait, we sit down with someone who changed Tim’s life in ways he’s still discovering — the iconic Shareen Wong. This conversation goes deep into what success really means, whether it ever feels like enough, and why we keep chasing the next milestone only to wonder if we’re any happier when we finally get there. Shareen opens up about her early radio days, the pain of being wrongly terminated from a morning show at the peak of her career, and how she reinvented herself long before podcasts were even a thing — launching one more than twenty years ago. She talks about the tarot card reader who saw her future before she did, the courage it took to start over, and the fearless journey that led her to become the boss behind Embrace Jewellery and co-founder of El Olivo. It’s raw, teary, honest, and a reminder that reinvention isn’t just a chapter — it’s a choice you make again and again.

5. 

   26 Oct 2025

   Episode Fourteen: The Harsh Reality of Life

   After a short break, Give It To Me Strait returns with one of our most personal and heartfelt episodes yet — a raw reflection on life, time, death, and family. When the world keeps moving even as we stand still in grief or heartbreak, how do we make peace with it? Ben opens up about his most difficult breakup — one that turned his whole life upside down and forced him to confront loneliness and self-worth. Tim shares about losing his dad and grandma, and the painful acceptance that some things in life are completely beyond our control. This episode isn’t about finding answers. It’s about learning to sit with the hard truths, and finding comfort in the people who stay when everything else changes.

6. 

   14 Sept 2025

   Episode Thirteen: Speed, Stereotypes & Scandals

   This week on Give It To Me Strait, we lace up with Hib Shamir — founder of Singapore’s pioneering run club Run.jpgand a man on track to become one of the youngest finishers of all six world major marathons. Nicknamed “The Flash”, Hib opens up about running past stereotypes, what it means to defy expectations as a Malay athlete, and the untold scandals of run clubs (spoiler: some runners don’t just run home alone). Get ready for a conversation that’s fast, funny, and a little bit scandalous.

7. 

   8 Sept 2025

   Episode Twelve: Who’s Really There for You?

   This week on Give It To Me Strait, we’re talking about friendship — not the surface-level kind, but the deeper energy that defines our connections. As we get older, time feels more precious, and it matters who we choose to spend it with. It’s not always about shared interests or common ground. Sometimes it’s about how someone makes you feel when you’re in the same room — the energy between you. We break down the difference between acquaintances, colleagues, and true friends; how to recognize the people who genuinely care for you versus those who are just around for convenience; and why investing in the right connections matters more than ever. Because at the end of the day, friendship isn’t about who’s there for the good times — it’s about who shows up, consistently, with the right energy.

8. 

   24 Aug 2025

   Episode Eleven: From Accident to Awakening

   In this episode, we speak with Viviane Then, a movement specialist who discovered her demisexuality later in life. A life-changing accident pushed her to leave behind a successful corporate career and step into an entirely new path — one that she’s now thriving in. Viviane shares how movement, when done right, can subconsciously shift your headspace and unlock clarity. Her story is one of resilience, identity, and reinvention… and yes, you’ll also hear a fun reveal about how Ben once started out giving towels at California Fitness.

9. 

   17 Aug 2025

   Episode Ten: Been There, Done That. What Success Really Means?

   Jörg Dietzel, former Global Head of Brand and Creative at Audi, has lived all over the world but still calls Singapore home. After 25 years here, he handed in his PR and reflects on what that chapter meant. From moving here at 39 to navigating success, setbacks, and the corporate climb, Jorg shares what he’s learned about ambition, identity, and what life really is when the titles fade.

10. 

    9 Aug 2025

    Episode Nine - So... Are We There Yet?

    We’re all chasing something. Success, happiness, maybe just a nod of approval from our 16-year-old selves. But what does “making it” actually look like? Is it ticking off society’s checklist and then wondering what’s next? Is it all downhill once you’ve done it all? Season 2 is here with a brand new studio and fully filmed episodes. We’re diving into life’s big and sometimes ridiculous questions from two different angles — a gay guy and a straight guy with very different takes on the same world.

11. 

    19 Jun 2024

    Episode Eight - How Hobbies Can Transform Your Life

    In the heartfelt finale of "Give It To Me Strait," we explore how hobbies can transform your life. From simple activities like walking to luxury pursuits like collecting watches and sneakers, discover the profound impact hobbies have on mental health, purpose, and identity. Join us as Ben shares his journey as a sneakerhead, turning a $200 investment into a $2000 per pair collection with over 200 pairs! Learn how his passion shaped his personal brand as a financial consultant. And find out what quirky item Tim 'collects' – you'll have to tune in to find out! This podcast itself was born from a shared hobby, and now, eight episodes later, we celebrate the power of starting small and pursuing what you love. Don't miss the final episode of "Give It To Me Strait!" Tune in and get inspired to find or rediscover your own hobby.

12. 

    12 Jun 2024

    Episode Seven: Our Army Gays are Over

    Fall In! National Service Chronicles Get ready to LOL as we dive into the wild world of National Service, the mandatory rite of passage for every Singaporean man—gay, straight, or bi. In this episode, our dynamic duo, who first bonded in the army, take you on a rollercoaster ride through their National Service days 17 years ago. Relive the laughs, the challenges, and the unforgettable moments that made their journey so memorable. Ever wondered what it's like being gay in the army? Is it a different experience? We've got the juicy details! We're answering the burning questions: Should you come out when you enlist? Did Tim spill the tea? Why do some people decide to be upfront? This episode is packed with hilarious stories, candid confessions, and a unique peek into the bonds that unite all Singaporean men. Don’t miss out—it’s a laugh riot you won't forget!

13. 

    5 Jun 2024

    Episode Six: Proud to be gay? (Pride Month Special)

    Pride isn't just about parties - it's a fight for equality. In this episode, we’ll explore what pride means in 2024. Let’s consider that there are still many countries where being gay is illegal and even fatal, meanwhile other countries are legalising gay marriage and repealing archaic laws like Singapore’s 377a. Tim, despite not getting involved in Pride parties, will share why Pride remains incredibly important to him. We’ll also ask the question is corporate Pride just "rainbow capitalism"? And the ultimate question: should Pride even exist in a world where everyone is truly equal? Join us and get involved in this important conversation that celebrates progress while looking towards a future where Pride might not be necessary.

14. 

    29 May 2024

    Episode Five: The Ultimate Lingo Showdown!

    Pride Month is just around the corner, and we're celebrating with our first-ever "Give It To Me Strait Quiz Off: Lingo Edition!" In this special episode, our producer Stuart Crowley takes on the role of quiz master, putting Ben and Tim to the test with lingo from both straight and gay communities. Will Ben spill the "tea"? Will Tim throw some "shade"? These words, now beloved by Gen Z, have become part of pop culture, thanks to the influence of LGBTQ+ representation on TV shows like the Emmy-winning RuPaul's Drag Race. Tune in for a side-splitting episode as our hosts navigate the hilarious world of community-specific slang and discover who really knows their lingo!

15. 

    22 May 2024

    Episode Four: Spot the office 'Ah Gua'

    In this episode, we chat about the delicate topic of being gay at work. We'll share tips on how to have respectful and supportive conversations with gay colleagues, including what questions to ask and which to avoid. Is it tough being gay and navigating the workplace? Should you come out to your colleagues right away, or take your time? Will people judge your lifestyle? We'll discuss these questions and more. Plus, we'll talk about why diversity hire policies matter. As Tim said, people often hire others who are like them. Do you agree? Join us for a friendly and insightful discussion on making work a more inclusive and supportive place for everyone.

16. 

    15 May 2024

    Episode Three: Plenty of (Cat)fish in the Sea?

    Is dating truly challenging in Singapore today? In an era where numerous options are just a swipe away, one might wonder whether the convenience of dating apps makes it easier or harder to forge meaningful connections. Are spontaneous, romantic "meet cutes" at places like the gym or train station still a reality, or have digital devices doomed these serendipitous encounters? For straight men in Singapore, societal expectations often dictate a certain "timeline" for relationships. But what about gay men? Does the absence of these traditional pressures make their dating experiences easier, or are there unique challenges they face? In this episode, we delve into the complexities of modern dating, including the pitfalls of online dating where AI and photo-editing apps have elevated catfishing to an art form. Our guest, Adam Tan—a former cabin crew member turned serial entrepreneur—recounts a hilarious and eye-opening story about his own catfishing experience in Singapore. Join us for an insightful discussion, produced by famed producer Stuart Crowley, that explores the evolving landscape of love and relationships in the digital age.

17. 

    7 May 2024

    Episode Two: Caught in the act

    In this riveting episode, Tim reveals a startling story of coming out to his parents—and his landlord as well! For those growing up straight, life seems straightforward—no grand declarations required. But what intense drama and unexpected turns await during a gay person's 'coming out' journey? Why is representation so transformative? And how can it profoundly influence those on their path to discovering their sexuality?

18. 

    1 May 2024

    Episode One: Can a gay man and straight man be friends?

    In the debut episode of Give It To Me Strait, hosts Tim and Ben dive headfirst into the quirky stereotypes of gay and straight men. They explore not just the quirky contrasts but also the delightful commonalities that bind us. Having met 17 years ago in the army, their paths diverged only to converge again through mutual heartbreaks. Now, whether gay, straight, or anywhere in between, Tim and Ben show that embracing our differences—and making an effort to fear less and understand more—can bridge seemingly separate worlds. Join them as they challenge each other’s perspectives and open doors to each other's worlds, illustrating how diversity can foster unity. They'll tackle a mix of sensitive, fun, and cheeky topics—ranging from life and love to careers—through the lens of Singaporeans in their 30s. But the big question they pose is: Can a gay man and a straight man truly be friends?

19. 

    10 Apr 2024

    Trailer: Give It To Me Strait!

    Strap in for 'Give It To Me Strait' – a rollercoaster of love, laughs, and life's curveballs with two Singaporean pals. Army buddies turned soul-searchers, we dive deep and dish out the real talk, spiced with humor. From heartache to hilarity, it's the no-holds-barred podcast that connects and cracks you up. Ready to join the ride?

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Spotify

5.0 / 5

21 ratings

Contact Give It To Me Strait

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.