How One TikTok Video Sparked a Cheesecake Empire

14/10/2025 38 min

Listen "How One TikTok Video Sparked a Cheesecake Empire"

Episode Synopsis

This corporate banker with 25 years of experience left his job... to sell desserts in Singapore!In this episode, I sit down with Sandeep Dhingra to talk about what really happens when you leave a 25-year career in banking to start a restaurant business in Singapore - and how he managed a dessert brand that suddenly went viral on TikTok.Sandeep talks about how his Dubai chocolate cheesecake became one of their most loved and sold-out desserts, the challenges of building a business from scratch, and why slow and steady growth worked. He shares his honest experiences on partnerships and success.If you're thinking about a career shift or leaving your 9-5 to build something of your own, this episode might be the push you’ve been waiting for.IN THIS EPISODE(00:00) He left a big-money job… for this?(02:05)  One casual chat flipped his whole career.(05:52)  Survive or Die? The hidden formula behind business success.(08:53) The untold culture shock of switching industries.(11:25)  What's the secret formula they use to make every dish unforgettable?(16:33) How a single dessert item hijacked their entire business strategy?(23:00) Why is working with your business partner not always easy? (24:29)  Why would anyone pick the slow route? He did - and here’s why.(30:41)  Growth looks glamorous - until you hear this. (32:30) Running a business without being present - How?(34:01) A message every 20-year-old needs to hear.(36:23)  Maybe success feels different than what you expect. Sandeep DhingraShalima MotialFounder & CEO of Dream Catchers (Host)With over 20 years of work experience, I am a passionate and creative entrepreneur who specialises in online talent showcase and marketing. I have a master's degree in English literature, which gives me a strong foundation in communication, storytelling, and content creation. I founded Dream Catchers Vision in 2011, a Singapore-based online platform that discovers and promotes performing artists from around the world.Connect with Shalima at https://www.linkedin.com/in/shalima-motial-44aab331/    Dream CatchersDream Catchers: Empowering Dreams in SingaporeDream Catchers is a pioneering Events, Theatre & Film Production company based in Singapore, dedicated to nurturing the aspirations of performing artists, entrepreneurs, and promoting women’s empowerment. Established over 14 years ago, the company has successfully organized numerous online and offline events, serving as a vital platform for emerging talent. Notably, Dream Catchers has been a nationwide talent partner for major Bollywood concerts in Singapore, providing invaluable opportunities for artists to shine. Through its diverse initiatives, Dream Catchers continues to inspire and empower individuals across the region.Watch the feature film - DOMINOES | Full Length Feature Film UHD 4K (Watermarked)Connect with Dream Catchers at http://www.dreamcatchersvision.com/home  https://www.facebook.com/dreamcatchersvision/  ___