In this inspiring episode of The Quinntessential Questions Podcast, Paul Quinn speaks with Rai Kannu — PE teacher turned performing artist, Mediacorp radio DJ, entrepreneur, and restaurateur — whose journey is a masterclass in passion, resilience, and reinvention.Rai began his career teaching and studying at Raffles Institution, before taking a leap of faith into the performing arts. That one-year sabbatical turned into a life-changing career pivot, where he transformed his love for music, storytelling, and performance into a livelihood.Today, Rai is a familiar voice on Class 95FM, where he has worked alongside some of Singapore’s most recognised DJs, including Jean Danker and Yasminne Cheng. Beyond the mic, he has built a reputation in theatre, music, and business — opening his own restaurant while balancing the demands of live radio and the creative industry.We dive into:🎤 His transition from teaching to the performing arts🎤 The challenges of consistency, naysayers, and creative fatigue🎤 The impact of Covid-19 on his career and performances🎤 Life as a Mediacorp radio DJ & the transition to live radio🎤 Building a personal brand, support system, and entrepreneurial journey🎤 Memorable performances, mentorship, and the emotional power of musicIf you’re curious about career reinvention, Singapore’s radio scene, or the mindset it takes to thrive in the creative industry, this episode is for you.OUR GUESThttps://www.instagram.com/rai.kannu/?hl=enhttps://www.instagram.com/jackandrai/?hl=enhttps://www.mediacorp.sg/business/tca/male-celebs/rai-kannuLISTEN & FOLLOW PAUL QUINNInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/taipansg/YouTube: https://youtube.com/quinntessentialquestionsApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-quinntesssential-questions-podcast-with-paul-quinn/id1764230785LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-quinn-wp1/OUR SOCIALSWebsite: https://quinntessentialca.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/westport-partners-career-coaching/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/westportpartnerscareercoaching/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Westport-Partners-Career-Coaching/61558129585059/EPISODE CHAPTERS(02:05) Introduction(05:32) Becoming a PE Teacher(07:04) One Year Sabbatical(08:14) Performing Arts(10:24) Turning His Passion to a Living(11:53) Dealing with Naysayers(14:31) Consistency & Stability(16:47) Challenges Faced(21:10) Impact of Covid-19(24:45) Most Memorable Performances(25:45) Becoming a Radio DJ(30:30) Support Structure(34:05) Transition to Live Radio(38:33) Seeking Mentorship(39:33) Learnings from Different People(40:57) Reading Books(45:45) Interviews as Conversations(47:47) The Impact of Music(52:39) Music, Emotions & Nostalgia(54:24) Becoming a Restaurateur(58:05) Personal Branding(58:45) Key Pivotal Moments(01:01:38) Creative Fatigue(01:03:27) Advice for Young Adults & Parents(01:07:12) Rapid Fire QuestionsDisclaimer:The views and opinions expressed herein are solely those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any company or organisation (or similar), its affiliates, subsidiaries, partners, or its employees.#QuinntessentialQuestions #PaulQuinn #RaiKannu #PerformingArts #RadioDJ #PersonalBranding #Music #Nostalgia #CreativeIndustry #CareerReinvention #Entrepreneurship #Resilience #Mentorship #Restaurateur