Debra Palmer is an author, wellness advocate and business professional whose personal transformation sparked a passion for helping others lead healthier lives. After losing over 20kg through juicing, she was given the opportunity to help legendary singer Engelbert Humperdinck work towards his weight-loss goals. The experience inspired her to share her knowledge through writing, beginning with her first book, Just Juice It, in 2021, followed by two more books on juicing.

Beyond health and wellness, Debra has a deep love for writing, regularly sharing her thoughts on business, lifestyle and everyday experiences through her blog. Having lived abroad for a decade before returning to Singapore, she also celebrates her love for her homeland in I AM S.P.G. – An S.P.G.’s Coffee Table Book. Through her books and personal experiences, Debra hopes to inspire others to embrace positive change, overcome life’s challenges and appreciate the things that truly matter.

Your journey into juicing began when you were asked to help legendary singer Engelbert Humperdinck lose 20 pounds before an upcoming concert. How did that opportunity come about, and how did the experience change the direction of your life?

The opportunity came through my dear friend Mike Stone, a legendary karate champion and martial artist, best known to many for his past relationship with Priscilla Presley. Mike was also the person who introduced me to juicing when I was a much heavier girl. After losing over 20kg in a year, he knew firsthand what I had achieved and believed I could help Engelbert Humperdinck, who wanted to lose 20 pounds and get into shape for an upcoming satellite live concert.

I drew on my own experience to help Engelbert work towards his goal, and he was so pleased with the outcome that I was later entrusted with helping someone else close to him for two years, focusing on both physical fitness and mental well-being.

These experiences changed my life. I realised that my personal transformation could inspire others, which led me to publish three books on juicing. What began as my own journey to better health became a passion for helping others regain their confidence, feel better about themselves and discover that positive change is possible.

Your first juicing book, Just Juice It, was published in 2021, followed by two more books. How has your understanding of health and wellness evolved since you first started writing about juicing?

When I first started writing Just Juice It in 2021, I wanted to share how juicing helped me lose over 20kg in a year. Since then, my understanding of wellness has evolved. I have learnt that health is about more than what we eat or the number on the weighing scale.

It is about our physical and mental well-being and building sustainable habits. Juicing can be part of that journey, but it is not a magic solution. Ultimately, health is not about chasing quick fixes or perfection, but making consistent choices that help us live better and feel better.

Many people begin a healthier lifestyle with great enthusiasm but struggle to maintain it. From your experience, what is the biggest obstacle preventing people from making lasting changes?

I believe the biggest obstacle is expecting results too quickly. People start with enthusiasm but become discouraged when they do not see immediate changes. From my own journey, I have learnt that lasting change takes patience, consistency and the willingness to keep going even when progress feels slow.

You do not have to be perfect or change everything overnight. Start small, stay committed and remember that lasting transformation is not about how quickly you get there, but how consistently you keep going.

Many people see writing a book as a demanding task, but you seem to genuinely enjoy it. What makes writing so fulfilling for you, and does it ever feel more like a hobby than work?

I have always loved writing because it allows me to express myself, share my thoughts and connect with people. While my full-time job involves assisting companies with their HR and business needs, writing remains a passion. I maintain a blog that I update two to three times a week, covering topics such as business, wellness, movies and everyday life.

Although writing a book requires time and effort, it rarely feels like work because I genuinely enjoy it. I love exploring different subjects and sharing experiences that readers might find meaningful. My greatest satisfaction comes from knowing that my words might inspire someone, offer a fresh perspective or simply brighten their day. If my writing makes a difference to even one person, I consider it time well spent.

Your book I AM S.P.G. – An S.P.G.’s Coffee Table Book explores a different side of your creativity. What inspired you to create this book, and what do you hope readers will take away from it?

The inspiration behind I AM S.P.G. – An S.P.G.’s Coffee Table Book came from my online friends, who enjoyed discovering Singapore and following my travels through the photos and stories I shared. Their encouragement inspired me to turn these experiences into a book.

Having lived abroad for 10 years, returning home gave me a renewed appreciation for Singapore and everything our little island has to offer. Through this book, I hope to showcase its beauty, unique character and charm, while reminding readers to appreciate what is often right in front of us. Above all, I hope they will see Singapore through my eyes and share my pride and affection for our little red dot.

What is one uncomfortable truth you had to accept about yourself that eventually led to your greatest breakthrough?

One uncomfortable truth I had to accept was that not everyone would recognise my worth or appreciate my efforts. Through struggles and disappointments, I learnt not to let others’ opinions or life’s setbacks define me.

I realised that seeking validation or waiting for the perfect moment could hold me back. Sometimes, you simply have to trust your abilities, take a leap of faith and move forward despite uncertainty.

My greatest breakthrough was understanding that my worth comes from how I rise above challenges, not how others see me. Life isn’t always easy, but what matters is having the courage to learn, pick yourself up and keep going.

What’s your vision for Singapore in the next five years?

Having lived abroad for 10 years, I have developed a deeper appreciation for Singapore. My vision for the next five years is to see our little red dot continue prospering while becoming a place where everyone feels cared for, supported and valued.

I hope we create more opportunities for younger generations, ensure our seniors age with dignity and promote greater mental health awareness and acceptance. I also hope we preserve our kampung spirit, multicultural identity and sense of belonging.

Having chosen to return home, I am grateful to call Singapore my country. I hope future generations will love Singapore not only for its achievements, but also for its kindness, compassion and care for its people.

If you could have a superpower for one day, what would it be and why?

If I could have a superpower for one day, I would choose the ability to heal people physically, mentally and emotionally.

Having faced my own struggles, I know that not every battle is visible. Sometimes, those who smile the most are hurting inside. I would want to ease their pain, offer encouragement and remind them that they are not alone.

Although I don’t have superpowers, I believe we can all make a difference through kindness, words and actions. If I could give someone hope and the strength to keep going, that would be a day well spent.

Connect with Debra: Instagram and Facebook.