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Round Table China

Round Table China
Author: China Plus
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Round Table is a premier English radio/podcast show, straight from Beijing.
Hear what's buzzing on the Internet and the main streets, see the latest lifestyle trends, and feel the pulse of life in China, Round Table is your golden ticket. With dynamic cultural exchanges between hosts from diverse backgrounds, we take you on a journey deep into modern China.
We invite you to join our conversation! Shoot us an email or a voice memo at roundtablepodcast@qq.com. Let the fun begin!
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The gaming world is experiencing a surge in co-op experiences, where players seek out shared adventures and collaborative challenges. From intricate puzzles to intense survival scenarios, these games foster a unique sense of camaraderie and shared accomplishment. What core elements are fueling this demand for collaborative gameplay, and what unique experiences are these games offering? Grab your controllers as we discuss! / Round Table's Happy Place (19:54)!
China is significantly enhancing its deep-sea exploration capabilities, focusing on the enigmatic realm of cold seep ecosystems. As such, the country has big plans for a permanent deep-sea research station slated for completion by 2030. What profound insights into life and Earth's processes will these investigations into cold seeps, and the broader deep ocean, ultimately reveal? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun
Bulk snack stores, with their delightful affordable drinks and a constantly surprising array of treats, have turned casual browsers into super-loyal fans, and who can blame them? We bite into the fizzy, flavorful world to uncover their secret recipe for success, and how this delicious trend is shaking up the snack industry. / Is baby screen time good or bad for your child (14:26)? On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Yushan
The Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) is a nongovernmental and nonprofit international organization, a platform for dialogue among leaders from governments, businesses, and academic sectors across Asia and the world, addressing critical economic and social issues. We learn about this year's forum, taking place from March 25-28. On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Yushan
Picture this: Your childhood crush teaching English online. Daniel Wu's videos are a hit, sparking "learn and swoon" buzz. But is it genuine education, or just star-powered marketing? The growing market for celebrity-endorsed education raises similar questions across various platforms. / Heart to Heart - please send your audio questions to roundtablepodcast@qq.com (19:19). On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Ding Heng
The impressive growth of sales, coupled with an ever-increasing consumer demand, paints a picture of a thriving cross-border e-commerce landscape within China. Yet, new tariffs present challenges, and the adaptability and resilience of Chinese businesses will be tested as they strive to maintain their current upward trajectory. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Ding Heng
Sneezing non-stop this spring? It's not just the flowers; it's those pesky tree pollens. With a perfect storm of allergens in the air, we explore why these tree pollens are making allergy season worse than ever. / Modern dating has become a battlefield, where you could crash and burn in an instant. Now, "floodlighting" is the latest threat—relationship experts warn that it's one to watch out for (19:31). On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan
The winds of change are blowing through the job market, and China's Spring Recruitment is leading the charge. Whether you're stepping into your first job or considering a career pivot, now could be the right time to reshape your future. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan
Walking down the street and witnessing real-time translations, navigation prompts, or even your to-do list displayed before your eyes, smart glasses are transforming that futuristic dream into reality. With major companies such as Apple, Google, Huawei, and Xiaomi entering the market, this technology is no longer a niche gadget; it has evolved into a billion-dollar industry on the rise. So, what is driving this revolution, and why should you pay attention? / Motivational Monday (19:31)! On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Yushun
If your household doubled in size but your water bill remained the same, you would either be a budgeting genius or have benefited from some scientific breakthrough. Well, China has achieved something equally remarkable: zero growth in water consumption despite significant economic expansion. What's the secret? Water-saving innovations, substantial policy changes, or just… really short showers? Join us to find out! On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Yushun
China's home repair industry is one of the most convenient in the world—book a technician online, and they'll come to your home at a fraction of the cost you'd pay in many developed economies. But a recent investigation revealed that some platforms have been exploiting this trust, exaggerating faults and overcharging customers. / Round Table's Happy Place (18:37)! On the show: Heyang, Yushan & Yushun
Can money buy a good night's sleep? Millions seem to think so, fueling China's sleep industry, projected to soar past one trillion Yuan by 2030. But should good sleep come with a price tag? What are the free and better ways to sleep soundly? On the show: Heyang, Yushan & Yushun
Chinese social media is buzzing about the rise of women-only spaces, from bars and gyms to dedicated social hubs. These spaces promise comfort, connection, and empowerment. But are they genuine havens of progress, or merely clever marketing ploys? We explore the growing trend, its real-world implications, and the challenges it faces. / Is the traditional method of spoon-feeding your baby gone (17:40)? On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Fei Fei
According to a 2024 report from a leading research firm, China has taken the top spot globally in energy transition investments. The nation has made notable progress in advancing renewable energy, green technologies, and modernizing its infrastructure, solidifying its role in the worldwide push for sustainability. These initiatives highlight China's dedication to tackling environmental issues and cutting carbon emissions. We find out in detail exactly how well China is doing with its transition to green energy. On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Fei Fei
In the business world, seasonal trends significantly influence spending habits—such as Black Friday in the U.S. and the Double Eleven shopping festival in China. However, in the realm of tea, there is an even more specific phenomenon: the spring tea economy. Far from being merely a niche product for enthusiasts, spring tea plays a crucial role in driving the local agricultural sector. The production of spring tea constitutes a substantial portion of the annual tea output, setting the tone for the entire industry. But what exactly makes spring tea such a powerhouse, and why does this single season have such a profound impact? / Cheap shampoo bad for men's hair (18:02)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Ding Heng
China's leading universities are expanding their capacity. With more seats available, an increased number of students, and greater opportunities—does this also mean heightened pressure? If gaining admission to a top-tier school has become somewhat easier, what implications does this have for students, parents, and the job market? We unpack the statistics, the motivations behind this change, and the actual effects of this expansion. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Ding Heng
Clocking out like a boss is no longer just a dream! Some companies are now literally turning off the lights to push employees out the door. From overtime fines to unexpected "fire drill" shutdowns, the anti-rat-race movement is gaining momentum. But is a forced work-life balance really the ideal, or does it come with unforeseen trade-offs? / Is having a laptop on your stomach cozy or concerning (20:00)? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan
China's average life expectancy just reached 79 years—an achievement decades in the making. The landscape continues to evolve, with ongoing developments shaping the years ahead. As we mark this milestone, we ask: How did we get here, and what comes next? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan
Is the power suit now a relic of the past? Chinese men are demonstrably choosing comfort over the rigid formality of traditional business wear. We examine this evolving dynamic in office attire, observing the transition from meticulously tailored suits to the relaxed aesthetic of plaid shirts and practical windbreakers. Is this just happening in China, or is the trend seen in other places around the world? / Motivational Monday (22:47)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan
While giants such as Huawei and BYD dominate headlines, China's "hidden champions" are quietly reshaping industries. These lesser-known companies, driving innovation in areas like AI and green energy, wield surprising technological power. What fuels their success, and why are they becoming increasingly important? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan
Couples' apps offer valuable features such as love diaries, shared savings, and important date reminders. But must shared toilet time define modern intimacy? Seriously. Do these apps genuinely help long-distance lovers maintain their connection, or are they merely transforming relationships into a series of obligatory check-ins? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan
China's cities are growing rapidly, but are they becoming homogenized? While some cities still reflect their unique culture and history, many now showcase identical sleek glass buildings, wide roads, and monotonous designs. Has urban planning diminished the unique character that once defined these places? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan
Cryonics, the practice of supercooling individuals after legal death, may seem like a plot from a futuristic novel. Proponents envision a future of advanced medical mastery, but not everyone is on board. Detractors dismiss it as a chilling illusion, highlighting the irreparable damage to biological structures. However, for some, it represents an opportunity to postpone their final chapter in the human narrative. / The rise of the older pet care market (17:52). On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Fei Fei
Obesity in China has become a significant issue in recent years, prompting the government to take action. The National Health Commission has announced a major new initiative aimed at encouraging citizens to adopt healthier lifestyles. This initiative will establish multidisciplinary “weight management clinics” at hospitals throughout China, designed to assist patients in safely losing excess weight. On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Fei Fei
As the saying goes, one person's trash is another person's treasure. Today, on Xianyu, one of China's most popular online second-hand market platforms, what one person regrets buying can become another person's latest opportunity. This trend is evolving into a launchpad for the most unique and rapidly growing side hustles. What is fueling this craze?/ Handwritten notes take new form on tablets (20:03). On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Laiming
If planting trees were a competitive sport, China would undoubtedly take home the gold medal. With over 25% forest coverage and the world's largest artificial forest, China isn't just going green—it's going exceptionally green. But how did this transformation occur? We dig deeper to uncover the roots of this remarkable change. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Laiming
Meet a generation that swears by herbal remedies but won’t give up late nights. Gen Z is all in on outdoor sports, cultural experiences, and yangsheng (or health maintenance in Chinese), but on their own chaotic terms. Is this the ultimate balance, or just a creative way to reinvent their own lifestyle?/ Phone on silent mode? Maximum distraction (20:37)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun
Farming has become high-tech business, and the fields of the future might not even be on Earth! China is rapidly pushing the boundaries of smart agriculture. So, will cows one day munch on AI-designed supergrass? Will our veggies have cosmic roots? As technology transforms farming, what challenges lie ahead? And how will these breakthroughs reshape what we eat and how we grow them? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun
Is 'natural' always better? We love organic food, herbal remedies, and chemical-free products, but does 'natural' always equate to being safer or healthier? Are we unjustly skeptical of artificial advancements? We thoroughly examine the concept of the naturalistic fallacy! / Motivational Monday (20:31)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun
AI-powered smart homes promise seamless automation, anticipating needs and optimizing living spaces. From self-adjusting thermostats to voice-controlled appliances, these homes represent the pinnacle of technological convenience. Yet, despite the buzz and apparent advantages, fully integrated AI smart homes remain a niche luxury. If they're truly the future of living, why haven't they become a mainstream reality? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun
For centuries, the middle reaches of the Yellow River have served as a vital waterway linking central and northern China. But with the development of road transport, the Yellow River's role as a transportation artery faded into history. In this episode, we visit an ancient ferry port along the river and explore the lives of the boatmen's descendants.
If you like what you heard, here is the podcast series, do enjoy!
https://podcasts.apple.com/cn/podcast/the-yellow-river-mosaic/id1798152816
Mini-games have surged in popularity, becoming a dominant force in the mobile gaming world. Their appeal lies in their accessibility and bite-sized gameplay, perfect for short bursts of entertainment during commutes or downtime. The rise of mobile technology, coupled with the free-to-play model and social features, has fueled this explosion, making mini-games a ubiquitous part of modern digital culture. / Round Table's Happy Place (17:46)! On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Laiming
March 8 is International Women's Day, celebrated under the theme "For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment." This year's theme calls for actions that can unlock equal rights, power, and opportunities for all, envisioning a feminist future where no one is left behind. Central to this vision is the empowerment of the next generation—youth, particularly young women and adolescent girls—who serve as catalysts for lasting change. We discuss the results of a survey that asked women what they really want in 2025. On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Laiming
FOBO, or the fear of a better option, is a psychological phenomenon in which individuals struggle to make decisions due to the constant worry that a better alternative may exist. This paralyzing fear often results in indecision, procrastination, and dissatisfaction, as people become overwhelmed by endless possibilities and the pressure to make the "perfect" choice. We discuss how to overcome FOBO ! / Gluten-free? Let's talk (17:01)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan
The annual Two Sessions are in full swing in Beijing! This year's top political meetings highlight science and technology as prominent topics. From artificial intelligence to cutting-edge research, how is China navigating its path toward the future of innovation?
Round Table's Yushan interviews NPC deputy Cui Yan, director of the China-Germany AI Institute at Wuyi University. (06:43-18:00)
On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan
Education in China has come a long way!Once upon a time, students had to copy exercise books by hand, and now they use AI-powered tablets in classrooms. Despite all this progress, there's always room for improvement: How do we balance tradition and innovation? How do we make education accessible and effective for all? Today, as educators from all around the country share their insights during China's "two sessions," we try to break it down as well, with the help of our expert guests—so grab your metaphorical school bag, and let's get started! On the show: Niu Honglin, Yushan & Zhou Mingming, Associate Dean in Faculty of Education at University of Macau
Typing all day, staring at screens, and sitting for hours—does this sound familiar to you, office workers and professional gamers? That stiff neck, aching wrist, and tired eyes aren't just minor annoyances; they're signs that your body is pleading for help! Forget the spa; we discuss how hospital rehabilitation might actually be a more effective solution for office warriors like us. / No handbag? No problem (18:54). On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun
Policies, progress, and the path forward! China's Two Sessions set the policy agenda for the year. We provide an overview of the meetings, analyze the key points, and hear from an expert about the nation's green future.
Heyang interviews Zhu Linxiao, an expert in energy policy and climate action.(06:21-19:30)
On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun
From solo dining to private gyms, businesses are catering to young adults who are embracing independent living. The solo living economy is thriving, with services designed for convenience, self-care, and personal fulfillment. What are your thoughts on this new trend? / Motivational Monday (18:21)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Laiming
China's National Ear Care Day, which coincides with World Hearing Day, serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of auditory health. This annual event aims to raise awareness about ear-related issues and promote preventative measures. By focusing on education and early detection, it strives to improve the overall well-being of the Chinese population. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Laiming
If you are currently in a relationship or have ever been in one, you likely understand that it requires significant effort from both partners to ensure its success. We see what the experts say for the best tips to keep both ourselves and our partners happy! / Celebrities exploring stores for you—would you make a purchase (16:45)? On the show: Steve Hatherly, Laiming & Niu Honglin
Every city, town, and village around the world possesses its own unique character. The buildings within these communities narrate the history of their locations. Public buildings hold greater significance than we often recognize. It is essential to consider what actions should be taken to preserve these treasured architectural gems, ensuring that we and future generations can continue to appreciate them.
On the show: Steve Hatherly, Laiming & Niu Honglin
Beijing, the capital of China and one of the largest cities in the world, is a vibrant metropolis with a rich history. From ancient palaces to cutting-edge skyscrapers, this city truly has it all! Join us, and we'll give you 3,000 compelling reasons to visit this 3,000-year-old capital! On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Yushun
China's marine economy is a significant and rapidly expanding sector that plays a vital role in the nation's overall economic development. The Ocean Decade International Coastal Cities Conference, held in Qingdao, China, provides an excellent platform for groups to convene and discuss important issues related to the industry. Just how important is China’s marine economy to the country? We explore some details. On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Yushun
We're aware that your office desk is a reflection of your workplace persona. The trend of work desk ornaments, some called emotional stabilizers, has quickly grown into a market in China, driven by young consumers' need for stress relief and emotional support at work. So, what does your workstation say about you? / Why do skiers get sunburned so easily (20:43)? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Ding Heng
Chongqing, a municipality in Southwest China, nestled in the mountains, driven by industry, and spiced up with passion! It's now the number 4 titan in China's trillion-Yuan GDP club! Let's sit down and explore how it got there! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Ding Heng
Ever walked out of a meeting thinking, 'I didn't achieve anything, yet I feel exhausted'? It might not be the workload—it could just be your boss's management style that's been draining you emotionally. We discuss how bosses, whether intentionally or not, contribute to workplace burnout and emotional fatigue. / Don't bathe when… (20:55) On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Fei Fei
Game-changing AI, dancing robots, epic video games and more, Hangzhou's startup scene is on fire! So, why is this city in eastern China suddenly the epicenter of China's startup revolution? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Fei Fei
The pandemic era began with quiet quitting in the US, defined by minimal effort and strict boundaries. Now, a more dramatic shift: revenge quitting, marked by impactful departures. American workers are leaving not just jobs, but making pointed statements. Could this trend spread globally, perhaps to China? / Motivational Monday (20:05)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan
Move over, Jedi! China's moviegoers have spoken! Nezha 2 has dethroned Star Wars: The Force Awakens as the highest-grossing film in a single market. However, beyond the impressive numbers, there's another surprise—this record-breaking hit was produced entirely in the Chinese city of Chengdu.
What is driving this city's emergence as a new force in animation and beyond? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan
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Hi! I just wanted to say I found an error/issue: This episode's audio doesn't match what the episode's description says it's about. The audio sounds like an identical duplicate of the previous episode's audio. Guess someone made a mistake uploading the audio file... I hope this problem can be resolved soon as I really wanted to listen to this episode! Thanks in advance :)
每天更新可还行
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