https://radio.cgtn.com/podcast/column/ezfm/Round-Table-China/11 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! en Copyright @ China Plus Sat, 25 Apr 2026 01:29:03 GMT 5 https://aezfm.meldingcloud.com/rss/program/11podcastcpchinapluspodcast@hotmail.comepisode Round Table China 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! False China Plus National Reading Week has come and gone. According to a fresh report, China's online literature scene isn't just bigger than ever; it's a genuine economic force. / Also today, we wrap up our distinguished Chinese author series with its fifth and final guest, writer Ren He. He shares a book that deeply resonates with him: "I Clean Up Garbage in a Wasteland World." (10:54) On the show: Steve, Yushun & Yushan. National Reading Wee... false 1074 full National Reading Week has come and gone. According to a fresh report, China's online literature scene isn't just bigger than ever; it's a genuine economic force. / Also today, we wrap up our distinguished Chinese author series with its fifth and final guest, writer Ren He. He shares a book that deeply resonates with him: "I Clean Up Garbage in a Wasteland World." (10:54) On the show: Steve, Yushun & Yushan. Fri, 24 Apr 2026 07:50:00 GMT 1_2764486 AI can already book your hotel and order your food. Now it's coming for your ride. In China, platforms are turning ride-hailing into a single sentence. You say what you need, like a smooth trip, a stop along the way, or a car that fits a child or a pet, and AI handles the rest. On the show: Steve, Yushun & Yushan. AI can already book ... false 2037 full AI can already book your hotel and order your food. Now it's coming for your ride. In China, platforms are turning ride-hailing into a single sentence. You say what you need, like a smooth trip, a stop along the way, or a car that fits a child or a pet, and AI handles the rest. On the show: Steve, Yushun & Yushan. Fri, 24 Apr 2026 07:47:00 GMT 1_2764483 A stranger shatters a car window not to steal, but to save. He grabs an AED from the back seat and uses it to rescue a life. If a single device works that fast, and a stranger risked everything to get it, why don't we all have one? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun A stranger shatters ... false 1317 full A stranger shatters a car window not to steal, but to save. He grabs an AED from the back seat and uses it to rescue a life. If a single device works that fast, and a stranger risked everything to get it, why don't we all have one? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Thu, 23 Apr 2026 06:59:00 GMT 1_2764471 April 23 is World Book Day. Across China, a week-long celebration of reading has been taking place. And more specifically in Nanchang, the Fifth National Reading Conference has turned books into something more: experiences that blend history, poetry, and cutting-edge technology. / Book recommendation from Chinese writer Lu Min (19:59) On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun April 23 is World Bo... false 1811 full April 23 is World Book Day. Across China, a week-long celebration of reading has been taking place. And more specifically in Nanchang, the Fifth National Reading Conference has turned books into something more: experiences that blend history, poetry, and cutting-edge technology. / Book recommendation from Chinese writer Lu Min (19:59) On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Thu, 23 Apr 2026 06:55:00 GMT 1_2764468 Writer Di An wrote the books that defined your teenage years. Now she's writing for the adult you've become. In this third episode of our World Book Day series, we talk about "Dear Fengmi," a novel about a single mom, a twice-divorced man, and a little girl named Honey who asks why ice cream melts. / Does diamond still mean love for eternity to you (14:22)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Writer Di An wrote t... false 1525 full Writer Di An wrote the books that defined your teenage years. Now she's writing for the adult you've become. In this third episode of our World Book Day series, we talk about "Dear Fengmi," a novel about a single mom, a twice-divorced man, and a little girl named Honey who asks why ice cream melts. / Does diamond still mean love for eternity to you (14:22)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Wed, 22 Apr 2026 07:46:00 GMT 1_2764456 For decades, environmental action has been built on a simple idea: plant more trees. But in many places, especially cities, space is limited, and the real challenge is no longer just planting. It is maintaining what already exists. That shift has sparked a new approach. Instead of planting a tree, you adopt one! On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan For decades, environ... false 1636 full For decades, environmental action has been built on a simple idea: plant more trees. But in many places, especially cities, space is limited, and the real challenge is no longer just planting. It is maintaining what already exists. That shift has sparked a new approach. Instead of planting a tree, you adopt one! On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Wed, 22 Apr 2026 07:38:00 GMT 1_2764453 AI is already inside classrooms across China, personalizing homework, grading essays, and tracking student data. None of that is new. But what about the teachers? They are being retrained and redefined, asked to evolve from knowledge providers into ethical guides for a digital world. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan AI is already inside... false 1982 full AI is already inside classrooms across China, personalizing homework, grading essays, and tracking student data. None of that is new. But what about the teachers? They are being retrained and redefined, asked to evolve from knowledge providers into ethical guides for a digital world. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Tue, 21 Apr 2026 09:39:00 GMT 1_2764435 For World Reading Day, Round Table meets Chinese sci-fi writer Chen Qiufan. He introduces his new book “Ocean Break”: a green utopia island in the Indian Ocean, built by global elites and powered by AI. But beneath the perfect surface lie sacrificed lives, buried histories, and a dangerous faith in technology. Part 2 of our 5-part series on Chinese authors. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan For World Reading Da... false 1134 full For World Reading Day, Round Table meets Chinese sci-fi writer Chen Qiufan. He introduces his new book “Ocean Break”: a green utopia island in the Indian Ocean, built by global elites and powered by AI. But beneath the perfect surface lie sacrificed lives, buried histories, and a dangerous faith in technology. Part 2 of our 5-part series on Chinese authors. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Tue, 21 Apr 2026 09:39:00 GMT 1_2764438 April 23 is World Book Day, and this week on Round Table, we're taking part in the celebration. Today we launch a special five-part series featuring acclaimed Chinese writers, each sharing a book that changed their perspective. The first features Qi Jinnian with her book "Wandering the Hengduan Mountains". / The Soapbox: Shenzhen, the city saying NO to its people (10:20). On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun April 23 is World Bo... false 1327 full April 23 is World Book Day, and this week on Round Table, we're taking part in the celebration. Today we launch a special five-part series featuring acclaimed Chinese writers, each sharing a book that changed their perspective. The first features Qi Jinnian with her book "Wandering the Hengduan Mountains". / The Soapbox: Shenzhen, the city saying NO to its people (10:20). On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Mon, 20 Apr 2026 08:26:00 GMT 1_2764423 Robots just ran a half marathon in Beijing. They weren't just moving. They were competing, stumbling, and pushing through like real racers. So is this a fun spectacle, or a serious glimpse into where technology is taking us? And when humans and machines share the same track... who are we really cheering for? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Robots just ran a ha... false 1803 full Robots just ran a half marathon in Beijing. They weren't just moving. They were competing, stumbling, and pushing through like real racers. So is this a fun spectacle, or a serious glimpse into where technology is taking us? And when humans and machines share the same track... who are we really cheering for? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Mon, 20 Apr 2026 08:25:00 GMT 1_2764420 France just made it easier to return looted artifacts from the colonial era. Sacred objects. Royal treasures. So what does that mean for China, a country that lost countless relics to foreign powers over the past two centuries? /For Travel China through film EP3, our picks today is "The Grandmaster". So where will this journey take us (18:10)? On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun France just made it ... false 1519 full France just made it easier to return looted artifacts from the colonial era. Sacred objects. Royal treasures. So what does that mean for China, a country that lost countless relics to foreign powers over the past two centuries? /For Travel China through film EP3, our picks today is "The Grandmaster". So where will this journey take us (18:10)? On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Fri, 17 Apr 2026 08:11:00 GMT 1_2764408 Several Chinese cities are rewriting their parking rules. Lower fees, shorter billing increments, free overnight and holiday parking. The goal is to free up spaces and ease costs for drivers. But will these changes actually work or just create new problems? On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Several Chinese citi... false 1625 full Several Chinese cities are rewriting their parking rules. Lower fees, shorter billing increments, free overnight and holiday parking. The goal is to free up spaces and ease costs for drivers. But will these changes actually work or just create new problems? On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Fri, 17 Apr 2026 08:10:00 GMT 1_2764405 What started as a tongue-in-cheek tool to help a friend suddenly went viral. Enter the SBTI Test: a fast, funny, wildly shareable personality quiz that hands you a four-letter label and says, "this is basically you." It lives somewhere between "that's so true" and "is this a joke?" On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun What started as a to... false 1025 full What started as a tongue-in-cheek tool to help a friend suddenly went viral. Enter the SBTI Test: a fast, funny, wildly shareable personality quiz that hands you a four-letter label and says, "this is basically you." It lives somewhere between "that's so true" and "is this a joke?" On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun Thu, 16 Apr 2026 10:07:00 GMT 1_2764393 Have you ever watched a film and immediately thought,“I want to go there"? Maybe it's a city, a street, or even just a feeling. This year's Beijing International Film Festival leans into that impulse, turning films into invitations and the city itself into a kind of open-world experience. With many more highlights in store, moviegoers won't want to miss what awaits. For Travel China through film EP2, our picks today are "All the Good Eyes" and "Ky Nam Inn". On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun Have you ever watche... false 2147 full Have you ever watched a film and immediately thought,“I want to go there"? Maybe it's a city, a street, or even just a feeling. This year's Beijing International Film Festival leans into that impulse, turning films into invitations and the city itself into a kind of open-world experience. With many more highlights in store, moviegoers won't want to miss what awaits. For Travel China through film EP2, our picks today are "All the Good Eyes" and "Ky Nam Inn". On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun Thu, 16 Apr 2026 10:04:00 GMT 1_2764390 For the Beijing International Film Festival, Round Table presents a special series. Each episode pairs a film shortlisted for the Tiantan Award with a real destination woven into its story. Because a great film doesn't just move you. It transports you. Our first pick is "Crossing a Dawn." So where will this journey take us? On the show: Fei Fei, Steve Hatherly & Yangyang For the Beijing Inte... false 681 bonus For the Beijing International Film Festival, Round Table presents a special series. Each episode pairs a film shortlisted for the Tiantan Award with a real destination woven into its story. Because a great film doesn't just move you. It transports you. Our first pick is "Crossing a Dawn." So where will this journey take us? On the show: Fei Fei, Steve Hatherly & Yangyang Wed, 15 Apr 2026 08:00:00 GMT 1_2764363 For many people, growing up once seemed simple: find a stable job, buy a house, and settle down. But today, that mentality is changing. More people, from retirees to young professionals, are asking a different question. What if home didn't have to stay in one place? / Let's take a look at China's first ever barbecue university (15:36)! On the show: Niu Honglin, Yangyang & Yushun For many people, gro... false 1458 full For many people, growing up once seemed simple: find a stable job, buy a house, and settle down. But today, that mentality is changing. More people, from retirees to young professionals, are asking a different question. What if home didn't have to stay in one place? / Let's take a look at China's first ever barbecue university (15:36)! On the show: Niu Honglin, Yangyang & Yushun Wed, 15 Apr 2026 07:50:00 GMT 1_2764375 AI has already transformed industries from finance to medicine, logistics to law, and now it's coming for acting. Meet the next generation of stars, digital performers with names, personalities, and social media followings. Some call them a powerful storytelling tool, while others see a threat to creativity and livelihoods. On the show: Niu Honglin, Yangyang & Yushun AI has already trans... false 1682 full AI has already transformed industries from finance to medicine, logistics to law, and now it's coming for acting. Meet the next generation of stars, digital performers with names, personalities, and social media followings. Some call them a powerful storytelling tool, while others see a threat to creativity and livelihoods. On the show: Niu Honglin, Yangyang & Yushun Wed, 15 Apr 2026 07:49:00 GMT 1_2764372 The Soapbox: The "Admin Night" trend / We think of e-sports as a young person's game. But in China, the fastest-growing players are in their 60s and 70s. They are forming teams, winning competitions, and turning gaming into a new kind of retirement. This is not just a pastime. It is a new path for the silver economy (17:49). On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu The Soapbox: The "Ad... false 1584 full The Soapbox: The "Admin Night" trend / We think of e-sports as a young person's game. But in China, the fastest-growing players are in their 60s and 70s. They are forming teams, winning competitions, and turning gaming into a new kind of retirement. This is not just a pastime. It is a new path for the silver economy (17:49). On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu Tue, 14 Apr 2026 06:14:00 GMT 1_2764360 China built the world's largest housing market by chasing one thing: more. But the finish line has moved. The urgent new question is no longer "How many?" but "How good?" What are we searching for when a home must be more than just space, when it needs to be the foundation for a good life? On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu China built the worl... false 1546 full China built the world's largest housing market by chasing one thing: more. But the finish line has moved. The urgent new question is no longer "How many?" but "How good?" What are we searching for when a home must be more than just space, when it needs to be the foundation for a good life? On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu Tue, 14 Apr 2026 06:13:00 GMT 1_2764357 Everyone has heard the old belief. Real greatness demands sacrifice and struggle. The best among us only made it because somebody drove them hard, often brutally so. But fresh evidence is challenging that idea. Where is the line between pushing hard and causing real harm? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Everyone has heard t... false 1433 full Everyone has heard the old belief. Real greatness demands sacrifice and struggle. The best among us only made it because somebody drove them hard, often brutally so. But fresh evidence is challenging that idea. Where is the line between pushing hard and causing real harm? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Mon, 13 Apr 2026 09:39:00 GMT 1_2764348 Imagine AI glasses that translate 89 languages, a robot picking tea leaves, and a flying car all under one roof. That is the 6th China International Consumer Products Expo in Hainan, part tech showcase and part future shopping cart. Beyond the gadgets lie green energy and smart logistics. So what do these trends say about China's market potential and Hainan's tourism goldmine? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Imagine AI glasses t... false 1726 full Imagine AI glasses that translate 89 languages, a robot picking tea leaves, and a flying car all under one roof. That is the 6th China International Consumer Products Expo in Hainan, part tech showcase and part future shopping cart. Beyond the gadgets lie green energy and smart logistics. So what do these trends say about China's market potential and Hainan's tourism goldmine? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Mon, 13 Apr 2026 09:38:00 GMT 1_2764345 The Full Circle：Working overtime, Hu Xue Gang, Shared farming. / Have you noticed mosquitoes showing up earlier this year? Maybe you brushed one away during a walk or heard that familiar buzzing sooner than expected. It might feel like a minor seasonal change — but scientists say it could be a sign of something bigger: longer transmission seasons, expanding insect habitats, and new challenges for disease prevention. So, should the early buzzing alarm us (15:06)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Fei Fei & Yushun The Full Circle：Work... false 1290 full The Full Circle：Working overtime, Hu Xue Gang, Shared farming. / Have you noticed mosquitoes showing up earlier this year? Maybe you brushed one away during a walk or heard that familiar buzzing sooner than expected. It might feel like a minor seasonal change — but scientists say it could be a sign of something bigger: longer transmission seasons, expanding insect habitats, and new challenges for disease prevention. So, should the early buzzing alarm us (15:06)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Fei Fei & Yushun Fri, 10 Apr 2026 08:28:00 GMT 1_2764327 Governments around the world are all trying to answer a key question: How can digital commerce support the real economy — without replacing it? Well, in China, a new set of policy guidelines from several ministries is aiming to do just that. They want to improve global logistics, make better use of AI technology, lower barriers for exporters, and deepen the connection between e-commerce platforms and offline industries. On the show: Niu Honglin, Fei Fei & Yushun Governments around t... false 1884 full Governments around the world are all trying to answer a key question: How can digital commerce support the real economy — without replacing it? Well, in China, a new set of policy guidelines from several ministries is aiming to do just that. They want to improve global logistics, make better use of AI technology, lower barriers for exporters, and deepen the connection between e-commerce platforms and offline industries. On the show: Niu Honglin, Fei Fei & Yushun Fri, 10 Apr 2026 08:26:00 GMT 1_2764324 Another "super league" is sweeping China's schools: the Class Super League. Sports contests are getting kids off screens and outdoors — but can a football match really teach a child more about failing better than a textbook ever could? / Do pets need 24/7 livestreams (18:43)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Fei Fei & Yushan Another "super leagu... false 1459 full Another "super league" is sweeping China's schools: the Class Super League. Sports contests are getting kids off screens and outdoors — but can a football match really teach a child more about failing better than a textbook ever could? / Do pets need 24/7 livestreams (18:43)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Fei Fei & Yushan Thu, 09 Apr 2026 09:35:00 GMT 1_2764312 Imagine growing your own vegetables without leaving the city. In China, shared garden plots and "cloud farming" apps let people manage crops, harvest on weekends, or get fresh veggies delivered to their door. So how can technology really bring the countryside to city life? On the show: Niu Honglin, Fei Fei & Yushan Imagine growing your... false 1718 full Imagine growing your own vegetables without leaving the city. In China, shared garden plots and "cloud farming" apps let people manage crops, harvest on weekends, or get fresh veggies delivered to their door. So how can technology really bring the countryside to city life? On the show: Niu Honglin, Fei Fei & Yushan Thu, 09 Apr 2026 09:34:00 GMT 1_2764309 Welcome to our special segment, China Finds! This is where we take a cultural moment from China and unpack the story behind it—not as a history lesson, but as a conversation. Today, we unravel how young Chinese are turning ancestral traditions into vibrant conversations between past and present. On the show: Niu Honglin, Yushan & Yushun Welcome to our speci... false 1358 full Welcome to our special segment, China Finds! This is where we take a cultural moment from China and unpack the story behind it—not as a history lesson, but as a conversation. Today, we unravel how young Chinese are turning ancestral traditions into vibrant conversations between past and present. On the show: Niu Honglin, Yushan & Yushun Wed, 08 Apr 2026 08:17:00 GMT 1_2764294 Cities are packed with leisure spots—restaurants, malls, parks, nightlife districts. But lately, a surprising new venue has entered the chat: the city bus. Once the most ordinary piece of urban infrastructure, it's now being reinvented into a moving experience. Think hot pot dinners on wheels, karaoke buses, even pet-friendly rides. This humble form of public transport is turning into something far more social, creative, and entertaining than anyone ever expected. On the show: Niu Honglin, Yushan & Yushun Cities are packed wi... false 1797 full Cities are packed with leisure spots—restaurants, malls, parks, nightlife districts. But lately, a surprising new venue has entered the chat: the city bus. Once the most ordinary piece of urban infrastructure, it's now being reinvented into a moving experience. Think hot pot dinners on wheels, karaoke buses, even pet-friendly rides. This humble form of public transport is turning into something far more social, creative, and entertaining than anyone ever expected. On the show: Niu Honglin, Yushan & Yushun Wed, 08 Apr 2026 08:16:00 GMT 1_2764291 China is rolling out what some call its "sixth social insurance": long-term care insurance. The cost is just 0.3 percent of income, but the ambition is vast. It aims to move care from unpaid family labor to a professional home based system. On the show: Fei Fei, Niu Honglin & Steve China is rolling out... false 1786 full China is rolling out what some call its "sixth social insurance": long-term care insurance. The cost is just 0.3 percent of income, but the ambition is vast. It aims to move care from unpaid family labor to a professional home based system. On the show: Fei Fei, Niu Honglin & Steve Tue, 07 Apr 2026 06:00:00 GMT 1_2764258 Millions of parents across China stand outside schools in vests, directing traffic with no training, no authority, and no real choice. What began as voluntary has become mandatory. When schools shift responsibilities onto families, who is protecting whom, and how do we rebuild a system where helping doesn't cost trust or well being? On the show: Fei Fei, Niu Honglin & Steve Millions of parents ... false 1218 full Millions of parents across China stand outside schools in vests, directing traffic with no training, no authority, and no real choice. What began as voluntary has become mandatory. When schools shift responsibilities onto families, who is protecting whom, and how do we rebuild a system where helping doesn't cost trust or well being? On the show: Fei Fei, Niu Honglin & Steve Tue, 07 Apr 2026 06:00:00 GMT 1_2764261 It was a day of remembrance, when people across China honor their departed loved ones in different ways. Over the weekend, the country marked another Qingming Festival, also known as Tomb-Sweeping Day. A central tradition of the occasion is just that—visiting gravesites to clean and tend to the tombs of those who have passed. Today, we'll explore these long-standing customs, and how they're evolving in modern times. On the show: Fei Fei, Niu Honglin & Steve It was a day of reme... false 1767 full It was a day of remembrance, when people across China honor their departed loved ones in different ways. Over the weekend, the country marked another Qingming Festival, also known as Tomb-Sweeping Day. A central tradition of the occasion is just that—visiting gravesites to clean and tend to the tombs of those who have passed. Today, we'll explore these long-standing customs, and how they're evolving in modern times. On the show: Fei Fei, Niu Honglin & Steve Mon, 06 Apr 2026 06:00:00 GMT 1_2764213 In 2025, China averaged 49 hours a week. Laws exist. Awareness exists. So why nothing changing? Today we ask: who actually benefits from your long hours—and what would it take to stop? On the show: Fei Fei, Niu Honglin & Steve In 2025, China avera... false 1431 full In 2025, China averaged 49 hours a week. Laws exist. Awareness exists. So why nothing changing? Today we ask: who actually benefits from your long hours—and what would it take to stop? On the show: Fei Fei, Niu Honglin & Steve Mon, 06 Apr 2026 06:00:00 GMT 1_2764216 Forget the teenage gamers—the newest power users are your grandparents. From chasing flash sales at midnight to becoming viral influencers, seniors are taking over the internet. But with that connection comes a new danger: digital addiction. We explore the rise of the silver netizen and the fight to make the web age-friendly. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yangyang Forget the teenage g... false 1839 full Forget the teenage gamers—the newest power users are your grandparents. From chasing flash sales at midnight to becoming viral influencers, seniors are taking over the internet. But with that connection comes a new danger: digital addiction. We explore the rise of the silver netizen and the fight to make the web age-friendly. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yangyang Fri, 03 Apr 2026 06:00:00 GMT 1_2764207 Move over, Gen Z trends. The latest identity young people are claiming for themselves is "old-school human." It's a deliberate step back from the hyper-digital world—but what does it actually look like? Today, we're exploring why a generation is choosing to slow down. / Is your water pump trying to kill you (13:12)? On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yangyang Move over, Gen Z tre... false 1172 full Move over, Gen Z trends. The latest identity young people are claiming for themselves is "old-school human." It's a deliberate step back from the hyper-digital world—but what does it actually look like? Today, we're exploring why a generation is choosing to slow down. / Is your water pump trying to kill you (13:12)? On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yangyang Fri, 03 Apr 2026 06:00:00 GMT 1_2764210 Over the past decade, the rise of pet-friendly cafés, restaurants, and shopping malls has reflected a broader change in urban culture. Pets are no longer just companions at home. But recently, some businesses have begun reversing course by tightening rules or removing pet-friendly labels altogether. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Over the past decade... false 1417 full Over the past decade, the rise of pet-friendly cafés, restaurants, and shopping malls has reflected a broader change in urban culture. Pets are no longer just companions at home. But recently, some businesses have begun reversing course by tightening rules or removing pet-friendly labels altogether. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Thu, 02 Apr 2026 08:26:00 GMT 1_2764255 For centuries, tea was a staple, the quiet ceremonial background note to Chinese life. But in 2026, the spring harvest has transformed into a high‑stakes economic engine, triggering a massive mobilization of labor, capital, and live‑streamed commerce. Have you ever considered making your next trip tea‑themed? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan For centuries, tea w... false 1731 full For centuries, tea was a staple, the quiet ceremonial background note to Chinese life. But in 2026, the spring harvest has transformed into a high‑stakes economic engine, triggering a massive mobilization of labor, capital, and live‑streamed commerce. Have you ever considered making your next trip tea‑themed? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Thu, 02 Apr 2026 08:25:00 GMT 1_2764252 When people traded wired headphones for their wireless cousins, the decision was driven by style and convenience. But when it comes to the mind, priorities have shifted. Now, many are rewinding time and plugging back in. / Are China's apples the best apples (13:02)? On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu When people traded w... false 1165 full When people traded wired headphones for their wireless cousins, the decision was driven by style and convenience. But when it comes to the mind, priorities have shifted. Now, many are rewinding time and plugging back in. / Are China's apples the best apples (13:02)? On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu Wed, 01 Apr 2026 07:48:00 GMT 1_2764234 The sound of students reading aloud at dawn has echoed through Chinese schools for generations. Not anymore. Schools are now scrapping those early morning sessions and letting kids sleep in. Supporters call it a win for rest and focus. Critics fear grades could suffer. Does earlier actually mean better? On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu The sound of student... false 1991 full The sound of students reading aloud at dawn has echoed through Chinese schools for generations. Not anymore. Schools are now scrapping those early morning sessions and letting kids sleep in. Supporters call it a win for rest and focus. Critics fear grades could suffer. Does earlier actually mean better? On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu Wed, 01 Apr 2026 07:47:00 GMT 1_2764231 For many graduates, dorm life memories are tied to shared rooms, late night talks, and constant noise. But today's students expect more privacy and comfort. A decision, coming from northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, to phase out eight-person dorms has caught netizens' attention. The move is not just in infrastructure but in how we view student well-being and the purpose of campus life. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun For many graduates, ... false 1012 full For many graduates, dorm life memories are tied to shared rooms, late night talks, and constant noise. But today's students expect more privacy and comfort. A decision, coming from northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, to phase out eight-person dorms has caught netizens' attention. The move is not just in infrastructure but in how we view student well-being and the purpose of campus life. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun Tue, 31 Mar 2026 07:20:00 GMT 1_2764222 You hear a voice online promoting something, and the tone, the rhythm, and the emotion all feel completely real. But that person never recorded those words and never even knew the message existed. AI can now clone and spread voices at scale. If a machine can perfectly imitate your voice, do you still own it? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun You hear a voice onl... false 2168 full You hear a voice online promoting something, and the tone, the rhythm, and the emotion all feel completely real. But that person never recorded those words and never even knew the message existed. AI can now clone and spread voices at scale. If a machine can perfectly imitate your voice, do you still own it? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun Tue, 31 Mar 2026 07:18:00 GMT 1_2764219 Remember those weekend marriage markets where parents posted résumés on park walls? They've gone digital. Now, anxious parents are swiping for sons- and daughters-in-law from the comfort of their living rooms. An old tradition, reinvented for the app era. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Remember those weeke... false 1283 full Remember those weekend marriage markets where parents posted résumés on park walls? They've gone digital. Now, anxious parents are swiping for sons- and daughters-in-law from the comfort of their living rooms. An old tradition, reinvented for the app era. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Mon, 30 Mar 2026 08:25:00 GMT 1_2764195 The biggest climate solution isn't some new invention. It's something we're already throwing away. Millions of tons of food go to waste every year, quietly making the planet warmer, but it doesn't have to be this way. In fact, this is one of the simplest fixes we've got. So why are we still so bad at it? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan The biggest climate ... false 1844 full The biggest climate solution isn't some new invention. It's something we're already throwing away. Millions of tons of food go to waste every year, quietly making the planet warmer, but it doesn't have to be this way. In fact, this is one of the simplest fixes we've got. So why are we still so bad at it? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Mon, 30 Mar 2026 08:24:00 GMT 1_2764192 Three stories with no obvious connection. That is the easy way out. So instead, we picked three segments from this week that seem unrelated at first glance. Dig deeper, though, and something ties them together. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Three stories with n... false 1117 full Three stories with no obvious connection. That is the easy way out. So instead, we picked three segments from this week that seem unrelated at first glance. Dig deeper, though, and something ties them together. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Fri, 27 Mar 2026 09:12:00 GMT 1_2764177 Retirement isn't what it used to be. Shanghai has launched a sweeping plan to reintegrate seniors into the workforce, shifting the focus from caring for the elderly to empowering them. So why is retiring at 60 fading fast? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Retirement isn't wha... false 2020 full Retirement isn't what it used to be. Shanghai has launched a sweeping plan to reintegrate seniors into the workforce, shifting the focus from caring for the elderly to empowering them. So why is retiring at 60 fading fast? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Fri, 27 Mar 2026 09:11:00 GMT 1_2764174 Welcome to The Why, our new tech-focused segment. We take one story and go beyond the surface. In tech reporting, the spotlight is usually on the numbers, the launches, and the breakthroughs. But in The Why, we reveal the bigger picture of why this story matters to us. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun Welcome to The Why, ... false 1530 full Welcome to The Why, our new tech-focused segment. We take one story and go beyond the surface. In tech reporting, the spotlight is usually on the numbers, the launches, and the breakthroughs. But in The Why, we reveal the bigger picture of why this story matters to us. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun Thu, 26 Mar 2026 08:35:00 GMT 1_2764162 The Boao Forum for Asia, underway in Hainan, brings together governments, companies, and scholars to debate global challenges and test solutions. As the forum marks its 25th anniversary, discussions explore how economic growth, technological innovation, and environmental sustainability can move forward together. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun The Boao Forum for A... false 1603 full The Boao Forum for Asia, underway in Hainan, brings together governments, companies, and scholars to debate global challenges and test solutions. As the forum marks its 25th anniversary, discussions explore how economic growth, technological innovation, and environmental sustainability can move forward together. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun Thu, 26 Mar 2026 08:34:00 GMT 1_2764159 Imagine checking into a five-star hotel and never leaving. No short-term stays. No eventual move to a care facility when you need help. Across China, luxury hotels are being converted into permanent homes for an aging generation. / Is F1 the fastest growing sport in China(21:43) ? On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Imagine checking int... false 1834 full Imagine checking into a five-star hotel and never leaving. No short-term stays. No eventual move to a care facility when you need help. Across China, luxury hotels are being converted into permanent homes for an aging generation. / Is F1 the fastest growing sport in China(21:43) ? On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Wed, 25 Mar 2026 09:05:00 GMT 1_2764147 Spring greens have taken over. Suddenly, your friends are experts on what's in season. Grocery runs feel like scavenger hunts, and vegetables have become the main event. So why are we obsessing over these bitter, fleeting leaves? Is it about taste? Health? Nostalgia? Or is it just the vibe? On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Spring greens have t... false 1312 full Spring greens have taken over. Suddenly, your friends are experts on what's in season. Grocery runs feel like scavenger hunts, and vegetables have become the main event. So why are we obsessing over these bitter, fleeting leaves? Is it about taste? Health? Nostalgia? Or is it just the vibe? On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Wed, 25 Mar 2026 09:04:00 GMT 1_2764144 Parenting advice often focuses on grades, extracurriculars, or screen time. But new research drawing on data from over 50,000 teenagers across 15 countries suggests something simple may also matter: household chores. Researchers are exploring how families share responsibilities influences whether children bully their peers(16:21). / Can eating well be bad for you? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei Parenting advice oft... false 1348 full Parenting advice often focuses on grades, extracurriculars, or screen time. But new research drawing on data from over 50,000 teenagers across 15 countries suggests something simple may also matter: household chores. Researchers are exploring how families share responsibilities influences whether children bully their peers(16:21). / Can eating well be bad for you? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei Tue, 24 Mar 2026 08:18:00 GMT 1_2764135 Picture a morning commute from a very different height. At just one meter tall, the world looks unfamiliar. When cities are built from an adult perspective, children navigate a world that isn't designed for them. But what happens when planners and communities begin to see the city from one meter high? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei Picture a morning co... false 1831 full Picture a morning commute from a very different height. At just one meter tall, the world looks unfamiliar. When cities are built from an adult perspective, children navigate a world that isn't designed for them. But what happens when planners and communities begin to see the city from one meter high? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei Tue, 24 Mar 2026 08:16:00 GMT 1_2764132 THE SOAPBOX: If you exercise for less than 30 minutes, it's basically useless? / The Labubu craze has officially taken over Hollywood. We tell you everything we know about the little monster's upcoming movie (16:53). On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu THE SOAPBOX: If you ... false 1261 full THE SOAPBOX: If you exercise for less than 30 minutes, it's basically useless? / The Labubu craze has officially taken over Hollywood. We tell you everything we know about the little monster's upcoming movie (16:53). On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu Mon, 23 Mar 2026 07:59:00 GMT 1_2764117 It's spring job fair season, and the crowd isn't flocking to the usual names. AI is stealing the show. So what does that leave students with? A job market that's rewriting the rules before they even walk in the door. The question is: how do you show up ready when nobody's quite sure what "ready" even means? On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu It's spring job fair... false 1911 full It's spring job fair season, and the crowd isn't flocking to the usual names. AI is stealing the show. So what does that leave students with? A job market that's rewriting the rules before they even walk in the door. The question is: how do you show up ready when nobody's quite sure what "ready" even means? On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu Mon, 23 Mar 2026 07:58:00 GMT 1_2764114 The Full Circle: Ganji, book covers, city pollen / A crumpled wrapper. A hotel clerk's request. A kindness relay across continents. This isn't a feel-good movie. It's the real story of how one piece of candy sparked a cross-cultural moment no one saw coming (12:55). On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun The Full Circle: Gan... false 1210 full The Full Circle: Ganji, book covers, city pollen / A crumpled wrapper. A hotel clerk's request. A kindness relay across continents. This isn't a feel-good movie. It's the real story of how one piece of candy sparked a cross-cultural moment no one saw coming (12:55). On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Fri, 20 Mar 2026 08:26:00 GMT 1_2764102 Spring in China isn't just pretty anymore. It's big business. We dig into the high-stakes economics behind the petals. How do these fleeting flowers turn to a sustainable goldmine? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Spring in China isn'... false 1959 full Spring in China isn't just pretty anymore. It's big business. We dig into the high-stakes economics behind the petals. How do these fleeting flowers turn to a sustainable goldmine? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Fri, 20 Mar 2026 08:24:00 GMT 1_2764099 There's a lot happening beneath the surface, literally. New sites are emerging, long-studied relics are revealing fresh secrets, and the questions we're asking don't have tidy answers yet. We share our first installment of China Finds. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan There's a lot happen... false 1291 full There's a lot happening beneath the surface, literally. New sites are emerging, long-studied relics are revealing fresh secrets, and the questions we're asking don't have tidy answers yet. We share our first installment of China Finds. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Thu, 19 Mar 2026 09:14:00 GMT 1_2764087 Spring has arrived, and so have your allergies. That yellow dust covering everything looks like nature's confetti and the trees themselves might be the problem. We look at how city planners accidentally turned pollen season into a full-blown sneezefest and whether there's any hope for breathing easy again. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Spring has arrived, ... false 1852 full Spring has arrived, and so have your allergies. That yellow dust covering everything looks like nature's confetti and the trees themselves might be the problem. We look at how city planners accidentally turned pollen season into a full-blown sneezefest and whether there's any hope for breathing easy again. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Thu, 19 Mar 2026 09:13:00 GMT 1_2764084 In offices and bedrooms across China, a new kind of downtime has taken hold. People are hunched over trays of tiny plastic beads, arranging them one by one with tweezers. It is called Pindou, and it has become an unlikely escape from the noise of screens and notifications. / With everyone worried about the environment, why are we still covering our textbooks in plastic (15:17)? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun In offices and bedro... false 1366 full In offices and bedrooms across China, a new kind of downtime has taken hold. People are hunched over trays of tiny plastic beads, arranging them one by one with tweezers. It is called Pindou, and it has become an unlikely escape from the noise of screens and notifications. / With everyone worried about the environment, why are we still covering our textbooks in plastic (15:17)? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Wed, 18 Mar 2026 08:18:00 GMT 1_2764069 Brown bears are breaking into homes. Wild boars are stopping subway trains. In 2026, the wild isn't staying in the wild anymore. China's conservation efforts are working so well that animals are showing up where they don't belong. We look at what happens when success creates conflict and explore a new law trying to make coexistence possible. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Brown bears are brea... false 1795 full Brown bears are breaking into homes. Wild boars are stopping subway trains. In 2026, the wild isn't staying in the wild anymore. China's conservation efforts are working so well that animals are showing up where they don't belong. We look at what happens when success creates conflict and explore a new law trying to make coexistence possible. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Wed, 18 Mar 2026 08:17:00 GMT 1_2764066 What if you could walk out of a bad movie 20 minutes in and get your money back? A theater in Hangzhou is trying exactly that, and China's film industry is taking notice. The experiment pits audience satisfaction against artistic vision in a billion-dollar market. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan What if you could wa... false 1162 full What if you could walk out of a bad movie 20 minutes in and get your money back? A theater in Hangzhou is trying exactly that, and China's film industry is taking notice. The experiment pits audience satisfaction against artistic vision in a billion-dollar market. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Tue, 17 Mar 2026 07:53:00 GMT 1_2764057 Young people in China are walking away from their screens and heading to the market. We explore the revival of Ganji and why an old-fashioned way of shopping, full of noise, street food, and human connection, is resonating with a new generation. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Young people in Chin... false 1930 full Young people in China are walking away from their screens and heading to the market. We explore the revival of Ganji and why an old-fashioned way of shopping, full of noise, street food, and human connection, is resonating with a new generation. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Tue, 17 Mar 2026 07:51:00 GMT 1_2764054 A major fast food chain is putting artificial intelligence in its employees' ears. Burger King is testing AI-powered headsets that do more than take orders. The devices coach workers on their performance, track inventory, and monitor customer conversations. The technology raises an uncomfortable question about whether this is helpful assistance or employee surveillance. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan A major fast food ch... false 1279 full A major fast food chain is putting artificial intelligence in its employees' ears. Burger King is testing AI-powered headsets that do more than take orders. The devices coach workers on their performance, track inventory, and monitor customer conversations. The technology raises an uncomfortable question about whether this is helpful assistance or employee surveillance. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Mon, 16 Mar 2026 09:59:00 GMT 1_2764045 Step into a Chinese mall today and you might be surprised. Crowds are back, but many younger shoppers are opting for a different retail experience. They are heading to flea markets and second-hand shops, where the thrill lies in the hunt. While middle-aged consumers fuel mall spending, youth culture increasingly revolves around pre-owned treasures. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Step into a Chinese ... false 1867 full Step into a Chinese mall today and you might be surprised. Crowds are back, but many younger shoppers are opting for a different retail experience. They are heading to flea markets and second-hand shops, where the thrill lies in the hunt. While middle-aged consumers fuel mall spending, youth culture increasingly revolves around pre-owned treasures. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Mon, 16 Mar 2026 09:58:00 GMT 1_2764042 Different stories, different angles, no obvious reason they belong together. But hang tight, there's a link hiding in plain sight. Beneath the surface of China's digital landscape, a single thread connects them all, waiting to be pulled. Follow it closely enough, and the bigger picture begins to emerge. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun. Different stories, d... false 1077 full Different stories, different angles, no obvious reason they belong together. But hang tight, there's a link hiding in plain sight. Beneath the surface of China's digital landscape, a single thread connects them all, waiting to be pulled. Follow it closely enough, and the bigger picture begins to emerge. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun. Fri, 13 Mar 2026 07:56:00 GMT 1_2764027 A digital crustacean is scuttling across China's internet, and the race is on to catch it. Known as the “lobster,” OpenClaw is an open-source AI agent that has developers, startups, and even municipal governments hooked. But just as the excitement reaches a fever pitch, regulators have issued a sharp warning over potential data leaks. Why is that? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun. A digital crustacean... false 2073 full A digital crustacean is scuttling across China's internet, and the race is on to catch it. Known as the “lobster,” OpenClaw is an open-source AI agent that has developers, startups, and even municipal governments hooked. But just as the excitement reaches a fever pitch, regulators have issued a sharp warning over potential data leaks. Why is that? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun. Fri, 13 Mar 2026 07:54:00 GMT 1_2764024 Many think of artificial intelligence as merely playing a supporting role, automating the routine and optimizing the everyday. But China's latest move rewrites that script entirely. Enter the "smart economy," a full-scale fusion of industrial might and machine intelligence. Here, AI doesn't assist. It drives. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Many think of artifi... false 1183 full Many think of artificial intelligence as merely playing a supporting role, automating the routine and optimizing the everyday. But China's latest move rewrites that script entirely. Enter the "smart economy," a full-scale fusion of industrial might and machine intelligence. Here, AI doesn't assist. It drives. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Thu, 12 Mar 2026 08:55:00 GMT 1_2764015 China just unveiled an ambitious plan to shake up theater. It's probably not what you think. Forget dusty relics. This is ancient art meeting the algorithm, with vertical screen dramas, a youth surge, and serious momentum building. Can any of it turn traditional performance into the next big cultural wave? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan China just unveiled ... false 1955 full China just unveiled an ambitious plan to shake up theater. It's probably not what you think. Forget dusty relics. This is ancient art meeting the algorithm, with vertical screen dramas, a youth surge, and serious momentum building. Can any of it turn traditional performance into the next big cultural wave? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Thu, 12 Mar 2026 08:53:00 GMT 1_2764012 For many young people, the nine-to-five job is no longer the only or preferred option. Flexible schedules, multiple income streams, and digital entrepreneurship are increasingly part of the career landscape. In China, this has fueled the rapid rise of new forms of employment, from delivery services to livestream commerce. As lawmakers and political advisers gather at the Two Sessions, the country is taking a closer look at how this new generation of workers is reshaping the labor market. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan For many young peopl... false 857 full For many young people, the nine-to-five job is no longer the only or preferred option. Flexible schedules, multiple income streams, and digital entrepreneurship are increasingly part of the career landscape. In China, this has fueled the rapid rise of new forms of employment, from delivery services to livestream commerce. As lawmakers and political advisers gather at the Two Sessions, the country is taking a closer look at how this new generation of workers is reshaping the labor market. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Wed, 11 Mar 2026 07:50:00 GMT 1_2763997 International relations aren't just shaped at summits. The real exchanges happen in classrooms and everyday conversations. In this episode of Generation Global, Round Table's Yushan talks with three young scholars from the US, the UK, and Indonesia living in Beijing. They arrived with expectations, but their time in China has reshaped how they see the country. International relati... false 2366 full International relations aren't just shaped at summits. The real exchanges happen in classrooms and everyday conversations. In this episode of Generation Global, Round Table's Yushan talks with three young scholars from the US, the UK, and Indonesia living in Beijing. They arrived with expectations, but their time in China has reshaped how they see the country. Wed, 11 Mar 2026 07:49:00 GMT 1_2763994 Forget awkward dinner dates. In China, singles are finding love through laughter at stand-up comedy matchmaking shows. With improv icebreakers and instant audience feedback, dating has turned into a live performance. But is this booming trend about real connection, or just comic relief from modern dating anxiety? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Xingyu Forget awkward dinne... false 1247 full Forget awkward dinner dates. In China, singles are finding love through laughter at stand-up comedy matchmaking shows. With improv icebreakers and instant audience feedback, dating has turned into a live performance. But is this booming trend about real connection, or just comic relief from modern dating anxiety? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Xingyu Tue, 10 Mar 2026 09:25:00 GMT 1_2763982 While university enrollment numbers are dipping, vocational schools are opening to bachelor's degree holders eager to learn hands-on trades. Some call it“upgrading to vocational college.”Others call it common sense. We explore why China's Gen Z is rethinking the value of another degree and what happens when the old formulas stop adding up. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Xingyu While university enr... false 1892 full While university enrollment numbers are dipping, vocational schools are opening to bachelor's degree holders eager to learn hands-on trades. Some call it“upgrading to vocational college.”Others call it common sense. We explore why China's Gen Z is rethinking the value of another degree and what happens when the old formulas stop adding up. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Xingyu Tue, 10 Mar 2026 09:23:00 GMT 1_2763979 How can a country transform vast industries while maintaining economic momentum? And how do green ambitions translate into change for communities and households? In this episode of Generation Global, Round Table's Fei Fei brings together a Chinese expert and a UK scholar. From policy signals at the Two Sessions to international insights, they explore how China's green transition is understood at home and abroad, and what it means for the future of development. How can a country tr... false 3275 full How can a country transform vast industries while maintaining economic momentum? And how do green ambitions translate into change for communities and households? In this episode of Generation Global, Round Table's Fei Fei brings together a Chinese expert and a UK scholar. From policy signals at the Two Sessions to international insights, they explore how China's green transition is understood at home and abroad, and what it means for the future of development. Mon, 09 Mar 2026 09:01:00 GMT 1_2763967 Healthcare systems around the world are grappling with a familiar challenge: delivering high-quality care while safeguarding the well-being of the medical workforce. During this year's Two Sessions, lawmakers and political advisers are actively debating how to address the long shifts, rising patient demand, and intense emotional pressure that are pushing medical professionals to a breaking point. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Healthcare systems a... false 2148 full Healthcare systems around the world are grappling with a familiar challenge: delivering high-quality care while safeguarding the well-being of the medical workforce. During this year's Two Sessions, lawmakers and political advisers are actively debating how to address the long shifts, rising patient demand, and intense emotional pressure that are pushing medical professionals to a breaking point. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Fri, 06 Mar 2026 08:18:00 GMT 1_2763946 Each week, we take a step back to re-examine three stories from the news cycle. Stories that, at first glance, appear to have no logical connection. Different sectors. Different stakes. No obvious overlap. And yet, beneath the surface, a single, unexpected thread ties them all together. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Each week, we take a... false 1015 full Each week, we take a step back to re-examine three stories from the news cycle. Stories that, at first glance, appear to have no logical connection. Different sectors. Different stakes. No obvious overlap. And yet, beneath the surface, a single, unexpected thread ties them all together. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Fri, 06 Mar 2026 08:18:00 GMT 1_2763949 Welcome to Round Table new special series: Generation Global: Navigating a Changing World! In this debut episode, Steve and Yushun sit down with Ace Asim, a researcher and student focused on AI and ethics at Peking University, to explore how China's rapid technological advancement looks through the eyes of international youth. Welcome to Round Tab... false 3192 full Welcome to Round Table new special series: Generation Global: Navigating a Changing World! In this debut episode, Steve and Yushun sit down with Ace Asim, a researcher and student focused on AI and ethics at Peking University, to explore how China's rapid technological advancement looks through the eyes of international youth. Thu, 05 Mar 2026 08:50:00 GMT 1_2763937 Forget dusty storefronts. China's oldest brands are now crashing livestreams and racking up billions of views, making the "old-timers" cool again. But beneath the hype lies a brutal scramble for digital talent, a constant battle with the algorithm, and one lingering question about whether the magic survives when heritage chases trends. / Heart to Heart - please send your audio questions to roundtablepodcast@qq.com (17:17). On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Forget dusty storefr... false 1405 full Forget dusty storefronts. China's oldest brands are now crashing livestreams and racking up billions of views, making the "old-timers" cool again. But beneath the hype lies a brutal scramble for digital talent, a constant battle with the algorithm, and one lingering question about whether the magic survives when heritage chases trends. / Heart to Heart - please send your audio questions to roundtablepodcast@qq.com (17:17). On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Wed, 04 Mar 2026 09:26:00 GMT 1_2763925 The Great Wall has survived centuries of wind and war. Now it also faces a new kind of challenge, not from nature, but from the millions who come to love it. This March, new regulations took effect in Beijing. Smarter technology. Tighter oversight. The question is whether these changes can save it from its own popularity. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan The Great Wall has s... false 1735 full The Great Wall has survived centuries of wind and war. Now it also faces a new kind of challenge, not from nature, but from the millions who come to love it. This March, new regulations took effect in Beijing. Smarter technology. Tighter oversight. The question is whether these changes can save it from its own popularity. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Wed, 04 Mar 2026 09:25:00 GMT 1_2763922 For many older Chinese, a quality life now has a global dimension. Beyond material comfort lies a deeper desire for growth and self-discovery, leading more seniors to pursue education abroad. These are not vacations. They are immersive experiences where language and art become gateways to new cultures and to rediscovering themselves. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan For many older Chine... false 1393 full For many older Chinese, a quality life now has a global dimension. Beyond material comfort lies a deeper desire for growth and self-discovery, leading more seniors to pursue education abroad. These are not vacations. They are immersive experiences where language and art become gateways to new cultures and to rediscovering themselves. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Tue, 03 Mar 2026 09:50:00 GMT 1_2763913 Think Chinese New Year ends when the fireworks stop? The real finale comes with the first full moon, during the Lantern Festival. On this night, lanterns illuminate the streets as families gather to honor centuries-old traditions. But technology is now crashing the party. Drones soar where paper lanterns once floated. So what happens when an ancient festival meets the modern world? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Think Chinese New Ye... false 1724 full Think Chinese New Year ends when the fireworks stop? The real finale comes with the first full moon, during the Lantern Festival. On this night, lanterns illuminate the streets as families gather to honor centuries-old traditions. But technology is now crashing the party. Drones soar where paper lanterns once floated. So what happens when an ancient festival meets the modern world? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Tue, 03 Mar 2026 09:49:00 GMT 1_2763910 The Soapbox: Tigers' fasting programs / There is a razor thin line between connection and cringe. You know the feeling. You say something real. Too real. And suddenly your brain screams, "Why did I just say that?" But what if that awkward, exposed moment is actually the point (18:24)? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun The Soapbox: Tigers'... false 1642 full The Soapbox: Tigers' fasting programs / There is a razor thin line between connection and cringe. You know the feeling. You say something real. Too real. And suddenly your brain screams, "Why did I just say that?" But what if that awkward, exposed moment is actually the point (18:24)? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Mon, 02 Mar 2026 09:36:00 GMT 1_2763895 The holidays are done and the strategy is set. Chinese provinces have just released their game plans for the next five years. The focus? A full push into innovation, manufacturing, business environment and more . We map out where China is headed next. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun The holidays are don... false 1498 full The holidays are done and the strategy is set. Chinese provinces have just released their game plans for the next five years. The focus? A full push into innovation, manufacturing, business environment and more . We map out where China is headed next. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Mon, 02 Mar 2026 09:35:00 GMT 1_2763892 Look closely, and a pattern begins to emerge from this week's stories. The pieces are all there, just not yet put together. But once they are, something surprising comes into focus. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Look closely, and a ... false 1407 full Look closely, and a pattern begins to emerge from this week's stories. The pieces are all there, just not yet put together. But once they are, something surprising comes into focus. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Fri, 27 Feb 2026 09:00:00 GMT 1_2763877 For years, cities across China have invested in cultivating "night-time economies," including restaurants, retail, and entertainment. Now, a new dimension has emerged: education after dark. Evening classes are becoming an integral part of urban infrastructure, offering a diverse range of fun, hands-on courses including makeup artistry, magic tricks, and wardrobe organization. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan For years, cities ac... false 1727 full For years, cities across China have invested in cultivating "night-time economies," including restaurants, retail, and entertainment. Now, a new dimension has emerged: education after dark. Evening classes are becoming an integral part of urban infrastructure, offering a diverse range of fun, hands-on courses including makeup artistry, magic tricks, and wardrobe organization. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Fri, 27 Feb 2026 08:59:00 GMT 1_2763874 Remember when a red envelope felt like magic? Not for the cash inside, but for the luck it carried. Somewhere along the way, that magic got replaced by a calculator. With campaigns now capping the cash, can we save the hongbao from the 'monetary arms race'? / Decoding the picky eater (18:36). On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun. Remember when a red ... false 1793 full Remember when a red envelope felt like magic? Not for the cash inside, but for the luck it carried. Somewhere along the way, that magic got replaced by a calculator. With campaigns now capping the cash, can we save the hongbao from the 'monetary arms race'? / Decoding the picky eater (18:36). On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun. Thu, 26 Feb 2026 09:02:00 GMT 1_2763865 Forget the garage startup. Forget the big team. We are entering the age of the 'One-Person Unicorn.' Artificial intelligence has slashed the cost of building a business to nearly zero, turning solo dreamers into global competitors overnight. But here is the million-dollar question: When you stand alone, who catches you when you fall? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun. Forget the garage st... false 1366 full Forget the garage startup. Forget the big team. We are entering the age of the 'One-Person Unicorn.' Artificial intelligence has slashed the cost of building a business to nearly zero, turning solo dreamers into global competitors overnight. But here is the million-dollar question: When you stand alone, who catches you when you fall? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun. Thu, 26 Feb 2026 09:01:00 GMT 1_2763862 In lecture halls once defined by PowerPoint slides and exam prep, a different kind of competition is unfolding. At several Chinese universities, the most sought-after electives are no longer traditional academic offerings, but hands-on courses in cooking, woodworking, beadwork, and car maintenance. / Is cucumber water the newest restaurant flex (16:14)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun. In lecture halls onc... false 1311 full In lecture halls once defined by PowerPoint slides and exam prep, a different kind of competition is unfolding. At several Chinese universities, the most sought-after electives are no longer traditional academic offerings, but hands-on courses in cooking, woodworking, beadwork, and car maintenance. / Is cucumber water the newest restaurant flex (16:14)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun. Wed, 25 Feb 2026 08:01:00 GMT 1_2763853 Another Chinese New Year celebration has just wrapped, but this year felt different. We saw robots trading folk dances for high-speed kung fu, AI assistants causing literal "bubble tea meltdowns" in the real world, and digital clones of celebrities showing up in kitchens where they definitely weren't invited. It was a week where the line between "festive tradition" and "Black Mirror episode" got a little blurry. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun. Another Chinese New ... false 1831 full Another Chinese New Year celebration has just wrapped, but this year felt different. We saw robots trading folk dances for high-speed kung fu, AI assistants causing literal "bubble tea meltdowns" in the real world, and digital clones of celebrities showing up in kitchens where they definitely weren't invited. It was a week where the line between "festive tradition" and "Black Mirror episode" got a little blurry. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun. Wed, 25 Feb 2026 08:00:00 GMT 1_2763850 Once the fireworks fade and the tables clear, reality creeps back in. Your thoughts move at molasses speed, your energy flatlines, and that cozy holiday haze suddenly feels suspiciously like a coma. It's not just exhaustion. It's your body coming down from weeks dialed up to eleven, crash-landing straight into the office. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Once the fireworks f... false 1046 full Once the fireworks fade and the tables clear, reality creeps back in. Your thoughts move at molasses speed, your energy flatlines, and that cozy holiday haze suddenly feels suspiciously like a coma. It's not just exhaustion. It's your body coming down from weeks dialed up to eleven, crash-landing straight into the office. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Tue, 24 Feb 2026 09:28:00 GMT 1_2763841 The fireworks have faded, the reunions have ended, and the last dumpling is a distant memory. Now the numbers are in. The receipts, the records, and the data that reveals what kind of holiday this year's Spring Festival really was. From tourism hauls to box office gold, we break down how China rang in its Year of the Horse. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan The fireworks have f... false 2054 full The fireworks have faded, the reunions have ended, and the last dumpling is a distant memory. Now the numbers are in. The receipts, the records, and the data that reveals what kind of holiday this year's Spring Festival really was. From tourism hauls to box office gold, we break down how China rang in its Year of the Horse. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Tue, 24 Feb 2026 09:27:00 GMT 1_2763838 Round Table presents the last of six stories from the new podcast, "Sage and Youth: Debating Zhuangzi's Tao." In this episode: a humble butcher survives chaos yet refuses honor. But why? When devotion meets power, what truly counts as merit? Zhuangzi's ancient tale sparks a modern debate: whether integrity lies in rejecting rewards or in acknowledging shared struggle. For more fascinating stories and heated debates, search "Sage and Youth: Debating Zhuangzi's Tao." Round Table presents... false 1343 full Round Table presents the last of six stories from the new podcast, "Sage and Youth: Debating Zhuangzi's Tao." In this episode: a humble butcher survives chaos yet refuses honor. But why? When devotion meets power, what truly counts as merit? Zhuangzi's ancient tale sparks a modern debate: whether integrity lies in rejecting rewards or in acknowledging shared struggle. For more fascinating stories and heated debates, search "Sage and Youth: Debating Zhuangzi's Tao." Mon, 23 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT 1_2763799 As a change of pace, the Round Table team is bringing horse stories to life! But this time, we've swapped a story from the past for a story from... the future? Enjoy the third and final installment: Round Table's Unexpected Guest. On the show: Steve, Yushun, Fei Fei & the team As a change of pace,... false 1903 full As a change of pace, the Round Table team is bringing horse stories to life! But this time, we've swapped a story from the past for a story from... the future? Enjoy the third and final installment: Round Table's Unexpected Guest. On the show: Steve, Yushun, Fei Fei & the team Mon, 23 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763796 Round Table presents the fifth of six stories from the new podcast, "Sage and Youth: Debating Zhuangzi's Tao." In this episode: is true expertise about aligning with hidden rhythms or overpowering difficulty? A famous butcher from Zhuangzi's story inspires Gen Z debaters to rethink whether success comes from harmony with systems or relentless self-strengthening. For more fascinating stories and heated debates, search "Sage and Youth: Debating Zhuangzi's Tao." Round Table presents... false 1185 full Round Table presents the fifth of six stories from the new podcast, "Sage and Youth: Debating Zhuangzi's Tao." In this episode: is true expertise about aligning with hidden rhythms or overpowering difficulty? A famous butcher from Zhuangzi's story inspires Gen Z debaters to rethink whether success comes from harmony with systems or relentless self-strengthening. For more fascinating stories and heated debates, search "Sage and Youth: Debating Zhuangzi's Tao." Fri, 20 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT 1_2763793 As a change of pace, the Round Table team is back in the saddle with another horse drama! Grab your headphones and enjoy the second installment: Bo Le and the Thousand-Li Horse. On the show: Steve, Yushan, Fei Fei & the team As a change of pace,... false 2077 full As a change of pace, the Round Table team is back in the saddle with another horse drama! Grab your headphones and enjoy the second installment: Bo Le and the Thousand-Li Horse. On the show: Steve, Yushan, Fei Fei & the team Fri, 20 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763790 Round Table presents the fourth of six stories from the new podcast, "Sage and Youth: Debating Zhuangzi's Tao." In this episode: when does inspiration become self-betrayal? We explore whether adopting others' methods leads to genuine progress or quietly disconnects us from our own nature. For more fascinating stories and heated debates, search "Sage and Youth: Debating Zhuangzi's Tao." Round Table presents... false 1417 full Round Table presents the fourth of six stories from the new podcast, "Sage and Youth: Debating Zhuangzi's Tao." In this episode: when does inspiration become self-betrayal? We explore whether adopting others' methods leads to genuine progress or quietly disconnects us from our own nature. For more fascinating stories and heated debates, search "Sage and Youth: Debating Zhuangzi's Tao." Thu, 19 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT 1_2763787 For a change of pace, the Round Table team is setting aside our regular debates. This time, we're acting out a horse story as our own little audio drama, just for fun! Enjoy the first installment: The Quest for the Heavenly Horse. Curtain up! On the show: Steve, Yushan, Yushun & the team For a change of pace... false 1833 full For a change of pace, the Round Table team is setting aside our regular debates. This time, we're acting out a horse story as our own little audio drama, just for fun! Enjoy the first installment: The Quest for the Heavenly Horse. Curtain up! On the show: Steve, Yushan, Yushun & the team Thu, 19 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763784 For a change of pace, the Round Table team is setting aside our regular debates. This time, we're acting out a horse story as our own little audio drama, just for fun! Enjoy the first installment: The Quest for the Heavenly Horse. Curtain up! For a change of pace... false 940 bonus For a change of pace, the Round Table team is setting aside our regular debates. This time, we're acting out a horse story as our own little audio drama, just for fun! Enjoy the first installment: The Quest for the Heavenly Horse. Curtain up! Thu, 19 Feb 2026 04:17:00 GMT 1_2764321 Round Table presents the third of six stories from the new podcast, "Sage and Youth: Debating Zhuangzi's Tao." In this episode: is true freedom found outside fame and office? Zhuangzi refuses political power, raising a timeless question about success. One side defends spiritual independence. The other argues real influence requires stepping into the system. For more fascinating stories and heated debates, search "Sage and Youth: Debating Zhuangzi's Tao." Round Table presents... false 1627 full Round Table presents the third of six stories from the new podcast, "Sage and Youth: Debating Zhuangzi's Tao." In this episode: is true freedom found outside fame and office? Zhuangzi refuses political power, raising a timeless question about success. One side defends spiritual independence. The other argues real influence requires stepping into the system. For more fascinating stories and heated debates, search "Sage and Youth: Debating Zhuangzi's Tao." Wed, 18 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT 1_2763781 Festivals reveal a society's values. In China, few moments do so like Spring Festival, especially from the second day onward, when private rituals become public celebration. Welcoming the son-in-law and worshipping ancestors and gods once reflected an agrarian world of kinship and survival. Today, these same customs sit alongside malls, livestreamed fairs, and global audiences. What happens when tradition meets urbanization and technology? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yangyang Festivals reveal a s... false 1594 full Festivals reveal a society's values. In China, few moments do so like Spring Festival, especially from the second day onward, when private rituals become public celebration. Welcoming the son-in-law and worshipping ancestors and gods once reflected an agrarian world of kinship and survival. Today, these same customs sit alongside malls, livestreamed fairs, and global audiences. What happens when tradition meets urbanization and technology? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yangyang Wed, 18 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763778 Round Table presents the second of six stories from the new podcast, "Sage and Youth: Debating Zhuangzi's Tao." In this episode: is greatness measured by ability or moral perfection? Gen Z voices challenge whether true leadership demands tolerance of flaws or the relentless pursuit of an ideal. For more fascinating stories and heated debates, search "Sage and Youth: Debating Zhuangzi's Tao." Round Table presents... false 1167 full Round Table presents the second of six stories from the new podcast, "Sage and Youth: Debating Zhuangzi's Tao." In this episode: is greatness measured by ability or moral perfection? Gen Z voices challenge whether true leadership demands tolerance of flaws or the relentless pursuit of an ideal. For more fascinating stories and heated debates, search "Sage and Youth: Debating Zhuangzi's Tao." Tue, 17 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT 1_2763775 The final night of the year carries unusual weight. For centuries, China's ritual has been quiet but deeply symbolic: staying awake together as the old year slips away. When did this tradition begin? How did people spend Spring Festival Eve in ancient times? And how did staying awake become inseparable from watching sketches, spotting celebrities, and asking if the Gala is better than last year? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei The final night of t... false 1789 full The final night of the year carries unusual weight. For centuries, China's ritual has been quiet but deeply symbolic: staying awake together as the old year slips away. When did this tradition begin? How did people spend Spring Festival Eve in ancient times? And how did staying awake become inseparable from watching sketches, spotting celebrities, and asking if the Gala is better than last year? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei Tue, 17 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763772 Round Table presents the first of six stories from the new podcast, Sage and Youth: Debating Zhuangzi's Tao. Two thousand years ago, Zhuangzi questioned reality itself. Who was he? A mystic. A rebel. A quiet comedian of philosophy. In this opening episode, Niu Honglin sits down with Professor Hong Li to explore freedom, uncertainty, and the playful wisdom of the ancient sage. Round Table presents... false 1416 full Round Table presents the first of six stories from the new podcast, Sage and Youth: Debating Zhuangzi's Tao. Two thousand years ago, Zhuangzi questioned reality itself. Who was he? A mystic. A rebel. A quiet comedian of philosophy. In this opening episode, Niu Honglin sits down with Professor Hong Li to explore freedom, uncertainty, and the playful wisdom of the ancient sage. Mon, 16 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT 1_2763769 Across history, three rhythms define Spring Festival: the journey home, the way people gather, and the form celebration takes. In this series, Round Table traces these transformations through a sustained conversation between ancient and modern China. We explore how going home, celebrating together, and holiday fun have been reshaped across dynasties, technologies, and generations. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei Across history, thre... false 1659 full Across history, three rhythms define Spring Festival: the journey home, the way people gather, and the form celebration takes. In this series, Round Table traces these transformations through a sustained conversation between ancient and modern China. We explore how going home, celebrating together, and holiday fun have been reshaped across dynasties, technologies, and generations. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei Mon, 16 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763766 Forget New Year's Eve in Times Square. The real spectacle unfolds across China, where one broadcast commands a billion viewers. The Spring Festival Gala is less a television show than a shared ritual, part time capsule and part fever dream, weaving ancient tradition with viral spectacle. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Forget New Year's Ev... false 1002 full Forget New Year's Eve in Times Square. The real spectacle unfolds across China, where one broadcast commands a billion viewers. The Spring Festival Gala is less a television show than a shared ritual, part time capsule and part fever dream, weaving ancient tradition with viral spectacle. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Fri, 13 Feb 2026 07:12:00 GMT 1_2763757 This Chinese New Year, why not let cinema inspire your China travel itinerary? As many international visitors still hit a digital wall, China is rolling out the welcome mat with new guidelines. How will it open its digital doors? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun This Chinese New Yea... false 2144 full This Chinese New Year, why not let cinema inspire your China travel itinerary? As many international visitors still hit a digital wall, China is rolling out the welcome mat with new guidelines. How will it open its digital doors? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Fri, 13 Feb 2026 07:11:00 GMT 1_2763754 A new American private school has replaced the teacher at the front of the classroom with a personal chatbot for every child. The model swaps the standard six-hour academic day for hyper-efficient, two-hour learning sprints. It is an exchange that places supreme value on personalized data transfer over human-led instruction. But can it work? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan A new American priva... false 1491 full A new American private school has replaced the teacher at the front of the classroom with a personal chatbot for every child. The model swaps the standard six-hour academic day for hyper-efficient, two-hour learning sprints. It is an exchange that places supreme value on personalized data transfer over human-led instruction. But can it work? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Thu, 12 Feb 2026 08:25:00 GMT 1_2763745 While the nation powers down for Spring Festival, some workers are powering up. They are skipping the family banquet to deliver yours, guard the temple fairs, and keep the city humming through the holiday lull. Meet the new wave of urban stayers choosing holiday shifts over hometown reunions and cashing in on the busiest downtime of the year. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan While the nation pow... false 1647 full While the nation powers down for Spring Festival, some workers are powering up. They are skipping the family banquet to deliver yours, guard the temple fairs, and keep the city humming through the holiday lull. Meet the new wave of urban stayers choosing holiday shifts over hometown reunions and cashing in on the busiest downtime of the year. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Thu, 12 Feb 2026 08:24:00 GMT 1_2763742 What does camping at -30°C mean to you? A test of survival? A daredevil's feat? Today, it's being reimagined as a sought-after winter retreat. Equipped with self-powered heaters, stove-jack tents, and sophisticated insulation systems, the punishing cold is being transformed from a forbidding obstacle into a compelling attraction. / Why do hotels always give you four pillows (17:34)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan What does camping at... false 1392 full What does camping at -30°C mean to you? A test of survival? A daredevil's feat? Today, it's being reimagined as a sought-after winter retreat. Equipped with self-powered heaters, stove-jack tents, and sophisticated insulation systems, the punishing cold is being transformed from a forbidding obstacle into a compelling attraction. / Why do hotels always give you four pillows (17:34)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Wed, 11 Feb 2026 07:41:00 GMT 1_2763733 Scenes of Chinese New Year shopping were once defined by crowded markets, ornate gift boxes, and last-minute grocery dashes. Now, the tableau is increasingly painted with livestream sales, overnight shipping, and delivery trucks lining residential streets. The annual Spring Festival consumer rush has steadily migrated online, testing China's vast logistics network at its most demanding moment. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Scenes of Chinese Ne... false 1772 full Scenes of Chinese New Year shopping were once defined by crowded markets, ornate gift boxes, and last-minute grocery dashes. Now, the tableau is increasingly painted with livestream sales, overnight shipping, and delivery trucks lining residential streets. The annual Spring Festival consumer rush has steadily migrated online, testing China's vast logistics network at its most demanding moment. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Wed, 11 Feb 2026 07:40:00 GMT 1_2763730 Traditional marketing tries hard to pull everyone in. But what if your most powerful move was to willingly lose a customer? It sounds counterintuitive, yet a strategy called "dissuasion" is proving just that. Sometimes, the clearest way to attract your true audience is to politely show others the door. / At what time of the day do you crash(14:46)? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Traditional marketin... false 1319 full Traditional marketing tries hard to pull everyone in. But what if your most powerful move was to willingly lose a customer? It sounds counterintuitive, yet a strategy called "dissuasion" is proving just that. Sometimes, the clearest way to attract your true audience is to politely show others the door. / At what time of the day do you crash(14:46)? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Tue, 10 Feb 2026 10:05:00 GMT 1_2763721 Robots are on vacuum duty, apps are delivering feasts, and AI is writing your greetings. The most traditional holiday of the year is being powered by the "Lazy Economy." Is technology saving the Spring Festival traditions or simply replacing them? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Robots are on vacuum... false 1821 full Robots are on vacuum duty, apps are delivering feasts, and AI is writing your greetings. The most traditional holiday of the year is being powered by the "Lazy Economy." Is technology saving the Spring Festival traditions or simply replacing them? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Tue, 10 Feb 2026 10:04:00 GMT 1_2763718 The Soapbox: The "no show" problem. / Hidden door handles signal sleek, electric futurism, but in an emergency, their design can become a deadly obstacle. China is now set to become the first country to mandate mechanically operable door handles, turning a design debate into lifesaving law (17:37). On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun The Soapbox: The "no... false 1398 full The Soapbox: The "no show" problem. / Hidden door handles signal sleek, electric futurism, but in an emergency, their design can become a deadly obstacle. China is now set to become the first country to mandate mechanically operable door handles, turning a design debate into lifesaving law (17:37). On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun Mon, 09 Feb 2026 08:40:00 GMT 1_2763709 China's Olympic story used to be defined by individual breakthroughs. Today, it's being engineered by systems. This new cycle is powered by strategic lineups, next-generation technology, and a deep bench of talent all aimed at sustained success on the world's biggest stage. We go inside China's systematic transformation for the Olympics, from the ice to the innovation lab. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun China's Olympic stor... false 1769 full China's Olympic story used to be defined by individual breakthroughs. Today, it's being engineered by systems. This new cycle is powered by strategic lineups, next-generation technology, and a deep bench of talent all aimed at sustained success on the world's biggest stage. We go inside China's systematic transformation for the Olympics, from the ice to the innovation lab. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun Mon, 09 Feb 2026 08:39:00 GMT 1_2763706 The Full Circle: Senior gamers, airplane hospitals, tasteless tomatoes / The classic bathhouse has been reinvented. Today, sprawling 24-hour mega-complexes have replaced it, transcending their original purpose. These are not merely for bathing; they are destinations where you can work from a private pod, enjoy a high-end meal, watch films, and essentially live for a full day (18:31)! On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Ding Heng The Full Circle: Sen... false 1825 full The Full Circle: Senior gamers, airplane hospitals, tasteless tomatoes / The classic bathhouse has been reinvented. Today, sprawling 24-hour mega-complexes have replaced it, transcending their original purpose. These are not merely for bathing; they are destinations where you can work from a private pod, enjoy a high-end meal, watch films, and essentially live for a full day (18:31)! On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Ding Heng Fri, 06 Feb 2026 07:28:00 GMT 1_2763697 In the warmth of southern China, winter means something different: it's a construction project. Venture into a mall to find a mountain of steel and manufactured snow, where professional skiers train and the après-ski includes spicy hot pot. This is how a region defies geography to bring the quintessential hobbies of the frozen north to its warm, southern shores. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Ding Heng In the warmth of sou... false 1648 full In the warmth of southern China, winter means something different: it's a construction project. Venture into a mall to find a mountain of steel and manufactured snow, where professional skiers train and the après-ski includes spicy hot pot. This is how a region defies geography to bring the quintessential hobbies of the frozen north to its warm, southern shores. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Ding Heng Fri, 06 Feb 2026 07:27:00 GMT 1_2763694 The promise is revolutionary: toothpaste that can regrow enamel and repair micro-cavities. Brands are turning bathroom shelves into dental clinics in a tube. But does the science behind "regenerative" brushing hold up, or are we just paying a premium for a brilliantly polished dream? On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun The promise is revol... false 1308 full The promise is revolutionary: toothpaste that can regrow enamel and repair micro-cavities. Brands are turning bathroom shelves into dental clinics in a tube. But does the science behind "regenerative" brushing hold up, or are we just paying a premium for a brilliantly polished dream? On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Thu, 05 Feb 2026 09:42:00 GMT 1_2763685 For a generation, the digital world is the fabric of their childhood. But on March 1st, 2026, that world faces a state-mandated redesign. China is enforcing a new national "red line," a unified digital ecosystem that will fundamentally alter every app and platform for anyone under 18. This is protection, redefined from the top down. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun For a generation, th... false 1830 full For a generation, the digital world is the fabric of their childhood. But on March 1st, 2026, that world faces a state-mandated redesign. China is enforcing a new national "red line," a unified digital ecosystem that will fundamentally alter every app and platform for anyone under 18. This is protection, redefined from the top down. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Thu, 05 Feb 2026 09:41:00 GMT 1_2763682 You slice into a flawless tomato with glossy skin and bright red flesh, only for a letdown to follow. There is no sweetness, no acidity, just water and fiber. This small disappointment has become so common, many people assume that’s just how tomatoes are now. China is tackling that exact issue by biotech, smart innovation and more. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei You slice into a fla... false 1421 full You slice into a flawless tomato with glossy skin and bright red flesh, only for a letdown to follow. There is no sweetness, no acidity, just water and fiber. This small disappointment has become so common, many people assume that’s just how tomatoes are now. China is tackling that exact issue by biotech, smart innovation and more. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei Wed, 04 Feb 2026 09:44:00 GMT 1_2763673 Around the world, specialized healthcare is often limited by geography. China is now testing a novel solution to close that gap. Instead of evacuating patients, this experiment brings care to them by flying the hospital itself. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei Around the world, sp... false 1723 full Around the world, specialized healthcare is often limited by geography. China is now testing a novel solution to close that gap. Instead of evacuating patients, this experiment brings care to them by flying the hospital itself. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei Wed, 04 Feb 2026 09:42:00 GMT 1_2763670 Buying something and pocketing the receipt is a universal, forgettable ritual. But across China, that small slip of paper is being weaponized for the economy. Dozens of cities are transforming routine purchases into a nationwide policy experiment, using receipts as a direct lever to stimulate consumer spending and modernize how taxes are tracked. / There's no such thing as "hangry" (17:32). On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Buying something and... false 1653 full Buying something and pocketing the receipt is a universal, forgettable ritual. But across China, that small slip of paper is being weaponized for the economy. Dozens of cities are transforming routine purchases into a nationwide policy experiment, using receipts as a direct lever to stimulate consumer spending and modernize how taxes are tracked. / There's no such thing as "hangry" (17:32). On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Tue, 03 Feb 2026 09:57:00 GMT 1_2763661 There was a time when a clear blue sky in Beijing felt like a fleeting miracle, a spectacle you had to capture before it vanished. Today, clean air is no longer a rare event. It is an expectation, documented by data and defined by policy. This fundamental change reveals a powerful truth: even the most daunting urban environmental challenges can be reversed with sustained commitment. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan There was a time whe... false 1835 full There was a time when a clear blue sky in Beijing felt like a fleeting miracle, a spectacle you had to capture before it vanished. Today, clean air is no longer a rare event. It is an expectation, documented by data and defined by policy. This fundamental change reveals a powerful truth: even the most daunting urban environmental challenges can be reversed with sustained commitment. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Tue, 03 Feb 2026 09:56:00 GMT 1_2763658 The Soapbox: The "Admin Night" trend / We think of e-sports as a young person's game. But in China, the fastest-growing players are in their 60s and 70s. They are forming teams, winning competitions, and turning gaming into a new kind of retirement. This is not just a pastime. It is a new path for the silver economy (17:49). On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu The Soapbox: The "Ad... false 1584 full The Soapbox: The "Admin Night" trend / We think of e-sports as a young person's game. But in China, the fastest-growing players are in their 60s and 70s. They are forming teams, winning competitions, and turning gaming into a new kind of retirement. This is not just a pastime. It is a new path for the silver economy (17:49). On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu Mon, 02 Feb 2026 08:28:00 GMT 1_2763649 China built the world's largest housing market by chasing one thing: more. But the finish line has moved. The urgent new question is no longer "How many?" but "How good?" What are we searching for when a home must be more than just space, when it needs to be the foundation for a good life? On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu China built the worl... false 1547 full China built the world's largest housing market by chasing one thing: more. But the finish line has moved. The urgent new question is no longer "How many?" but "How good?" What are we searching for when a home must be more than just space, when it needs to be the foundation for a good life? On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu Mon, 02 Feb 2026 08:26:00 GMT 1_2763646 The Full Circle: Wedding e-invites, microshifting, subway shopping / Knitting isn't just for your grandma anymore! Gen Z and Millennials have reclaimed it, turning quiet needles and yarn into a loud, viral movement. We tug on the thread of the modern knitting takeover (15:33). On the show: Steve, Yushun & Yushan. The Full Circle: Wed... false 1475 full The Full Circle: Wedding e-invites, microshifting, subway shopping / Knitting isn't just for your grandma anymore! Gen Z and Millennials have reclaimed it, turning quiet needles and yarn into a loud, viral movement. We tug on the thread of the modern knitting takeover (15:33). On the show: Steve, Yushun & Yushan. Fri, 30 Jan 2026 08:02:00 GMT 1_2763637 What if the newest trend in shopping isn't buying, but trying? Free tastes, test drives, and no-questions-asked returns are reshaping malls into showrooms for a growing trial economy. For consumers, the risk feels almost nonexistent. For brands, trust becomes the currency. But when does trying stop functioning as a preview and start replacing purchase altogether? And what happens when the free samples run out? On the show: Steve, Yushun & Yushan. What if the newest t... false 1691 full What if the newest trend in shopping isn't buying, but trying? Free tastes, test drives, and no-questions-asked returns are reshaping malls into showrooms for a growing trial economy. For consumers, the risk feels almost nonexistent. For brands, trust becomes the currency. But when does trying stop functioning as a preview and start replacing purchase altogether? And what happens when the free samples run out? On the show: Steve, Yushun & Yushan. Fri, 30 Jan 2026 08:00:00 GMT 1_2763634 Markets are seen as rational systems driven by data, while weather seems purely physical and unpredictable. China's meteorological authorities and the Fudan University are now bridging this divide. They have unveiled "Shangji," a pioneering AI model designed to decode the hidden patterns that connect weather forecasts directly to stock market moves. / Can your workout actually be hurting you (18:02)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei. Markets are seen as ... false 1479 full Markets are seen as rational systems driven by data, while weather seems purely physical and unpredictable. China's meteorological authorities and the Fudan University are now bridging this divide. They have unveiled "Shangji," a pioneering AI model designed to decode the hidden patterns that connect weather forecasts directly to stock market moves. / Can your workout actually be hurting you (18:02)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei. Thu, 29 Jan 2026 09:02:00 GMT 1_2763625 Winter is the ultimate stress test for our energy system. As temperatures plunge nationwide in China, the demand for electricity surges. From heating millions of northern homes to powering the non-stop factories in the south, this seasonal surge creates a complex, high-stakes challenge that is unmatched in scale and intensity anywhere on Earth. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei. Winter is the ultima... false 1689 full Winter is the ultimate stress test for our energy system. As temperatures plunge nationwide in China, the demand for electricity surges. From heating millions of northern homes to powering the non-stop factories in the south, this seasonal surge creates a complex, high-stakes challenge that is unmatched in scale and intensity anywhere on Earth. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei. Thu, 29 Jan 2026 09:00:00 GMT 1_2763622 When a public transit system must find new revenue, innovation follows. In China, subway operators are answering the call with a radical solution: transforming stations from simple transit points into vibrant, multi-purpose commercial hubs. This nationwide facelift is redefining the very purpose of urban infrastructure, turning subterranean spaces into the heart of community and commerce. / The invisible threat of third-hand smoke (13:39). On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushan When a public transi... false 1347 full When a public transit system must find new revenue, innovation follows. In China, subway operators are answering the call with a radical solution: transforming stations from simple transit points into vibrant, multi-purpose commercial hubs. This nationwide facelift is redefining the very purpose of urban infrastructure, turning subterranean spaces into the heart of community and commerce. / The invisible threat of third-hand smoke (13:39). On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushan Wed, 28 Jan 2026 09:00:00 GMT 1_2763613 Loyalty can be expensive. For years, digital platforms have used your personal data to quietly test the limits of what you will pay. Now, a global crackdown has begun. From China to the U.S., new laws are prying open the algorithmic black box. This emerging transparency promises to challenge the secret math of personalized pricing, a hidden economy built on data. On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushan Loyalty can be expen... false 1805 full Loyalty can be expensive. For years, digital platforms have used your personal data to quietly test the limits of what you will pay. Now, a global crackdown has begun. From China to the U.S., new laws are prying open the algorithmic black box. This emerging transparency promises to challenge the secret math of personalized pricing, a hidden economy built on data. On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushan Wed, 28 Jan 2026 08:58:00 GMT 1_2763610 For many urban professionals, the classic long vacation is being replaced by the micro-vacation. The traditional getaway often requires intense planning, difficult time-off negotiations, and creates a significant financial burden. This new philosophy focuses on escape in manageable, spontaneous fragments, offering renewal without the elaborate cost. / Let's welcome the Nihao China app for international travelers (19:40)! On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Xingyu For many urban profe... false 1660 full For many urban professionals, the classic long vacation is being replaced by the micro-vacation. The traditional getaway often requires intense planning, difficult time-off negotiations, and creates a significant financial burden. This new philosophy focuses on escape in manageable, spontaneous fragments, offering renewal without the elaborate cost. / Let's welcome the Nihao China app for international travelers (19:40)! On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Xingyu Tue, 27 Jan 2026 05:30:00 GMT 1_2763601 A concept called micro-shifting is hailed as work's future, offering flexible, autonomous bursts championed by digital professionals. Yet for millions locked into rigid hours and fixed locations, this promised departure from the nine-to-five reveals a critical divide between flexibility and fairness in the modern economy. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Xingyu A concept called mic... false 1522 full A concept called micro-shifting is hailed as work's future, offering flexible, autonomous bursts championed by digital professionals. Yet for millions locked into rigid hours and fixed locations, this promised departure from the nine-to-five reveals a critical divide between flexibility and fairness in the modern economy. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Xingyu Tue, 27 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763598 The Soapbox: Is Beijing deserving of its fashion critique? / You get a wedding invite. You click. They know. In China, digital invites are turning curiosity into a new kind of social pressure. A simple "save the date" is now a data mine. So, is this the end of the casual RSVP (14:04)? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan The Soapbox: Is Beij... false 1349 full The Soapbox: Is Beijing deserving of its fashion critique? / You get a wedding invite. You click. They know. In China, digital invites are turning curiosity into a new kind of social pressure. A simple "save the date" is now a data mine. So, is this the end of the casual RSVP (14:04)? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Mon, 26 Jan 2026 05:30:00 GMT 1_2763589 Digital life is rewiring our instincts. In China, eating alone is no longer seen as lonely. It's a curated luxury. From viral solo booths at fast food chains to an entire economy profiting from our collective comfort with solitude, we're exploring the rise of the "social anxiety economy." Why is being blissfully alone in public becoming the new normal? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Digital life is rewi... false 1811 full Digital life is rewiring our instincts. In China, eating alone is no longer seen as lonely. It's a curated luxury. From viral solo booths at fast food chains to an entire economy profiting from our collective comfort with solitude, we're exploring the rise of the "social anxiety economy." Why is being blissfully alone in public becoming the new normal? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Mon, 26 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763586 Have you ever noticed how one friend seems to always be cold, while another overheats at the slightest effort? Or why a specific diet or routine works wonders for some but not others? According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, the answer often lies in your innate body constitution, a foundational framework that explains these fundamental differences in health and vitality long before any illness appears. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun Have you ever notice... false 1154 full Have you ever noticed how one friend seems to always be cold, while another overheats at the slightest effort? Or why a specific diet or routine works wonders for some but not others? According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, the answer often lies in your innate body constitution, a foundational framework that explains these fundamental differences in health and vitality long before any illness appears. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun Fri, 23 Jan 2026 08:48:00 GMT 1_2763577 Curious how the week's stories converge? We take three stories from our previous week of shows and reveal the one hidden thread that connects them all. What is this week's common theme? The answer lies within The Full Circle. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun Curious how the week... false 1063 full Curious how the week's stories converge? We take three stories from our previous week of shows and reveal the one hidden thread that connects them all. What is this week's common theme? The answer lies within The Full Circle. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun Fri, 23 Jan 2026 05:30:00 GMT 1_2763574 Every January, the Swiss town of Davos becomes the focal point for defining the world's priorities. As global leaders, CEOs, and policymakers gather to confront our era's most sweeping challenges, the world is watching through a critical, new lens: that of the young generation destined to inherit the outcomes. A powerful new narrative is now being written from this perspective, authored by the voices of the future. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun Every January, the S... false 919 full Every January, the Swiss town of Davos becomes the focal point for defining the world's priorities. As global leaders, CEOs, and policymakers gather to confront our era's most sweeping challenges, the world is watching through a critical, new lens: that of the young generation destined to inherit the outcomes. A powerful new narrative is now being written from this perspective, authored by the voices of the future. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun Fri, 23 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763571 Around the world, a surprising new lifestyle is catching on. It looks a lot like everyday life in China, and for good reason. From morning exercise routines and sipping hot drinks to the quiet ritual of house slippers, young people internationally are adopting the gentle, intentional habits of Chinese culture. But what's behind this sudden, widespread embrace of a calmer way of living? On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Around the world, a ... false 1455 full Around the world, a surprising new lifestyle is catching on. It looks a lot like everyday life in China, and for good reason. From morning exercise routines and sipping hot drinks to the quiet ritual of house slippers, young people internationally are adopting the gentle, intentional habits of Chinese culture. But what's behind this sudden, widespread embrace of a calmer way of living? On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Thu, 22 Jan 2026 05:30:00 GMT 1_2763562 China's colossal toy industry is sprinting toward a high-tech, novelty-driven future, with AI companions and collectible blind boxes flying off shelves. In response, regulators have hit the brakes, enacting some of the world's toughest national safety standards. We explore the collision between breakneck innovation and a renewed crusade for safety, and asks who ultimately wins when playthings get smarter and rules get stricter. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun China's colossal toy... false 1687 full China's colossal toy industry is sprinting toward a high-tech, novelty-driven future, with AI companions and collectible blind boxes flying off shelves. In response, regulators have hit the brakes, enacting some of the world's toughest national safety standards. We explore the collision between breakneck innovation and a renewed crusade for safety, and asks who ultimately wins when playthings get smarter and rules get stricter. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Thu, 22 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763559 Chunyun, the annual Spring Festival travel rush in China, is the world's largest human migration. Each year, it tests the absolute limits of the country's transportation network. In 2026, however, it will test something new: how data, platforms, and policy can fundamentally reshape the experience of mass mobility itself. / Is boredom good for us (15:25)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei Chunyun, the annual ... false 1474 full Chunyun, the annual Spring Festival travel rush in China, is the world's largest human migration. Each year, it tests the absolute limits of the country's transportation network. In 2026, however, it will test something new: how data, platforms, and policy can fundamentally reshape the experience of mass mobility itself. / Is boredom good for us (15:25)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei Wed, 21 Jan 2026 05:30:00 GMT 1_2763550 For the first time, the story of space isn't just about astronauts. It's about farmers using satellite data, engineers designing zero-gravity labs, scientists discovering new drugs, and policymakers crafting the rules. The architects of our future in space are building it from the ground up. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei For the first time, ... false 1704 full For the first time, the story of space isn't just about astronauts. It's about farmers using satellite data, engineers designing zero-gravity labs, scientists discovering new drugs, and policymakers crafting the rules. The architects of our future in space are building it from the ground up. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei Wed, 21 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763547 A rocket retrieved from the ocean and a strategy to deploy over 200,000 satellites across 14 constellations are not isolated headlines. They are signals of a deeper structural shift redefining the global space industry. We explore the rise of China's commercial space sector and examine its tangible, far-reaching implications for our collective future. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei A rocket retrieved f... false 1819 full A rocket retrieved from the ocean and a strategy to deploy over 200,000 satellites across 14 constellations are not isolated headlines. They are signals of a deeper structural shift redefining the global space industry. We explore the rise of China's commercial space sector and examine its tangible, far-reaching implications for our collective future. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei Tue, 20 Jan 2026 08:00:00 GMT 1_2763535 More protein. Whole milk returns. Ultra-processed foods take a step back. The latest U.S. dietary guidelines have triggered a wave of reactions—some cheering, others confused. Has nutrition science changed its mind, or are we simply rediscovering what was overlooked? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei More protein. Whole ... false 1366 full More protein. Whole milk returns. Ultra-processed foods take a step back. The latest U.S. dietary guidelines have triggered a wave of reactions—some cheering, others confused. Has nutrition science changed its mind, or are we simply rediscovering what was overlooked? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei Tue, 20 Jan 2026 08:00:00 GMT 1_2763538 They are the bite-sized, viral dramas dominating your feed: ultrashort films that cast children in leading roles within unusually mature storylines. Following a surge of public concern over production practices and age-appropriate content, Chinese regulators have drawn a hard line. Today, we pull back the curtain on the crackdown, investigating what these new rules signal for the future of digital entertainment and the well-being of the young performers at its center. On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu They are the bite-si... false 1754 full They are the bite-sized, viral dramas dominating your feed: ultrashort films that cast children in leading roles within unusually mature storylines. Following a surge of public concern over production practices and age-appropriate content, Chinese regulators have drawn a hard line. Today, we pull back the curtain on the crackdown, investigating what these new rules signal for the future of digital entertainment and the well-being of the young performers at its center. On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu Mon, 19 Jan 2026 10:00:00 GMT 1_2763523 The Soapbox: office gossip / Why would someone pay for an app that demands they prove they are alive every single morning? This viral trend has captivated millions, but is it a symptom of our need for constant digital validation, or could there be an unexpectedly positive driver behind its popularity (15:12)? On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu The Soapbox: office ... false 1402 full The Soapbox: office gossip / Why would someone pay for an app that demands they prove they are alive every single morning? This viral trend has captivated millions, but is it a symptom of our need for constant digital validation, or could there be an unexpectedly positive driver behind its popularity (15:12)? On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu Mon, 19 Jan 2026 10:00:00 GMT 1_2763526 The 2026 consumer goods trade-in program presents a streamlined process for consumers: claim a voucher, place an order, and receive an immediate discount. Behind this user-friendly interface, however, lies a highly complex system. It requires the exact coordination of central funding, local execution, integrated digital platforms, and real-time verification mechanisms. So what's everyone buying? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei The 2026 consumer go... false 979 full The 2026 consumer goods trade-in program presents a streamlined process for consumers: claim a voucher, place an order, and receive an immediate discount. Behind this user-friendly interface, however, lies a highly complex system. It requires the exact coordination of central funding, local execution, integrated digital platforms, and real-time verification mechanisms. So what's everyone buying? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei Fri, 16 Jan 2026 08:00:00 GMT 1_2763508 This is the story of a river that shapes a nation. In the final episode of our series, we trace a decade of evolution along the Yangtze, where regions producing half of China's GDP have rewritten their growth model. They have shifted from a focus on scale to a new paradigm of smart, coordinated integration, a transformation that now offers the world a distinct blueprint for building a sustainable future. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei This is the story of... false 1508 full This is the story of a river that shapes a nation. In the final episode of our series, we trace a decade of evolution along the Yangtze, where regions producing half of China's GDP have rewritten their growth model. They have shifted from a focus on scale to a new paradigm of smart, coordinated integration, a transformation that now offers the world a distinct blueprint for building a sustainable future. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei Fri, 16 Jan 2026 08:00:00 GMT 1_2763511 What connects the quantified self movement, a major fishing ban, and a viral“cry-cry horse"? On the surface, these three stories from this past week appear to exist in separate worlds—one in personal technology, another in environmental policy, and the last in internet culture. We trace how they intersect to reveal a surprising, singular theme about modern systems of monitoring, compliance, and emotional response. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei What connects the qu... false 678 full What connects the quantified self movement, a major fishing ban, and a viral“cry-cry horse"? On the surface, these three stories from this past week appear to exist in separate worlds—one in personal technology, another in environmental policy, and the last in internet culture. We trace how they intersect to reveal a surprising, singular theme about modern systems of monitoring, compliance, and emotional response. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei Fri, 16 Jan 2026 05:30:00 GMT 1_2763514 Can a river double its economic power and save the planet at the same time? The Yangtze River does more than move cargo; it moves mountains, linking China’s heartland to global markets and powering the country's high-tech industrial ascent. Now, this monumental waterway is cementing its role as the indispensable anchor of the world's economic future. / The "cry-cry" horse (18:04). On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Can a river double i... false 1360 full Can a river double its economic power and save the planet at the same time? The Yangtze River does more than move cargo; it moves mountains, linking China’s heartland to global markets and powering the country's high-tech industrial ascent. Now, this monumental waterway is cementing its role as the indispensable anchor of the world's economic future. / The "cry-cry" horse (18:04). On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Thu, 15 Jan 2026 05:30:00 GMT 1_2763499 Across rural China, a significant change in daily travel is taking hold. It's powered by the "laotoule", a small, cheap electric vehicle filling a vast need. But as millions of these unregulated machines hit the streets, the country faces a hard choice between essential mobility and a clear safety threat. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Across rural China, ... false 1786 full Across rural China, a significant change in daily travel is taking hold. It's powered by the "laotoule", a small, cheap electric vehicle filling a vast need. But as millions of these unregulated machines hit the streets, the country faces a hard choice between essential mobility and a clear safety threat. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Thu, 15 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763496 How do you revive a great river? In the first episode of our three-part series, we look at the boldest move yet on the Yangtze: a total fishing ban. And it's working. Native fish are returning and the finless porpoise has reappeared in growing numbers, all while hundreds of thousands of fishermen have traded their nets for new lives on land. Join us for a story of ambitious ecological healing and profound human adaptation along one of China's most important waterways. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan How do you revive a ... false 1567 full How do you revive a great river? In the first episode of our three-part series, we look at the boldest move yet on the Yangtze: a total fishing ban. And it's working. Native fish are returning and the finless porpoise has reappeared in growing numbers, all while hundreds of thousands of fishermen have traded their nets for new lives on land. Join us for a story of ambitious ecological healing and profound human adaptation along one of China's most important waterways. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Wed, 14 Jan 2026 05:30:00 GMT 1_2763487 Imagine a hospital visit where the longest wait is the elevator ride. Now, picture paying for care with a single glance, or shielding your family with one shared insurance wallet no matter where in the country they live. This is not science fiction. It is the new reality in China's healthcare system. Today, we explore the digital keys to this future and how they are transforming the patient experience from stressful to seamless. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Imagine a hospital v... false 1572 full Imagine a hospital visit where the longest wait is the elevator ride. Now, picture paying for care with a single glance, or shielding your family with one shared insurance wallet no matter where in the country they live. This is not science fiction. It is the new reality in China's healthcare system. Today, we explore the digital keys to this future and how they are transforming the patient experience from stressful to seamless. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Wed, 14 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763484 Your phone's storage is precious, and your university's "Smart Campus" might be hogging it. Twenty gigabytes for apps that just buy hot water or check grades? Is all this digital infrastructure making your life smarter, or just more frustrating? / Your sunlit workspace is more than just a better view. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun. Your phone's storage... false 1360 full Your phone's storage is precious, and your university's "Smart Campus" might be hogging it. Twenty gigabytes for apps that just buy hot water or check grades? Is all this digital infrastructure making your life smarter, or just more frustrating? / Your sunlit workspace is more than just a better view. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun. Tue, 13 Jan 2026 05:30:00 GMT 1_2763475 Remember when a Master's degree was the automatic next step? That script is being rewritten. A growing number of students are now reconsidering that path, looking squarely at the price tag, the job market, and asking, “What's the real return on investment?" The answer could be reshaping the future of education and work in ways we're only beginning to see. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun. Remember when a Mast... false 1798 full Remember when a Master's degree was the automatic next step? That script is being rewritten. A growing number of students are now reconsidering that path, looking squarely at the price tag, the job market, and asking, “What's the real return on investment?" The answer could be reshaping the future of education and work in ways we're only beginning to see. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun. Tue, 13 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763472 The Soapbox: the great strawberry size conspiracy. / Welcome to the era of the Quantified Self, where we optimize every heartbeat and dissect every hour of sleep. This constant data stream promises a path to perfect control and an optimized life. But is that the whole story? Does tracking your life really help you live it more fully, or does it simply become another obstacle on the path to being present (12:08)? On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu. The Soapbox: the gre... false 1392 full The Soapbox: the great strawberry size conspiracy. / Welcome to the era of the Quantified Self, where we optimize every heartbeat and dissect every hour of sleep. This constant data stream promises a path to perfect control and an optimized life. But is that the whole story? Does tracking your life really help you live it more fully, or does it simply become another obstacle on the path to being present (12:08)? On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu. Mon, 12 Jan 2026 05:30:00 GMT 1_2763463 China's hospitals are cultivating a new wave of international patients. Their destination is no longer just a cultural landmark, but a state-of-the-art operating room, drawn by what many systems lack: efficiency and affordability. With dramatically shorter wait times and costs a fraction of those in the West, China is rapidly carving out a reputation as a premier hub for medical tourism. On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu. China's hospitals ar... false 1769 full China's hospitals are cultivating a new wave of international patients. Their destination is no longer just a cultural landmark, but a state-of-the-art operating room, drawn by what many systems lack: efficiency and affordability. With dramatically shorter wait times and costs a fraction of those in the West, China is rapidly carving out a reputation as a premier hub for medical tourism. On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu. Mon, 12 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763460 Welcome to the inaugural edition of a brand-new segment "The Full Circle". The premise is simple, but we think the results will be fascinating: each week, we look back at three stories from the Round Table podcast, stories that might have seemed distinct in the moment. But here, we examine them side by side, searching for the underlying theme or unexpected connection that brings them together! On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun Welcome to the inaug... false 861 full Welcome to the inaugural edition of a brand-new segment "The Full Circle". The premise is simple, but we think the results will be fascinating: each week, we look back at three stories from the Round Table podcast, stories that might have seemed distinct in the moment. But here, we examine them side by side, searching for the underlying theme or unexpected connection that brings them together! On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun Fri, 09 Jan 2026 05:30:00 GMT 1_2763451 Welcome to Las Vegas, where the neon lights are bright, but the tech booths are somehow brighter. This year at CES, you couldn't toss a microchip without hitting a company promising to revolutionize the world with AI. Forget the casinos; the real jackpots were being hit on the showroom floor. We look at the highlights and see how Chinese tech companies are placing their bets this year. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun Welcome to Las Vegas... false 2319 full Welcome to Las Vegas, where the neon lights are bright, but the tech booths are somehow brighter. This year at CES, you couldn't toss a microchip without hitting a company promising to revolutionize the world with AI. Forget the casinos; the real jackpots were being hit on the showroom floor. We look at the highlights and see how Chinese tech companies are placing their bets this year. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun Fri, 09 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763448 What if every green purchase earned you tangible rewards? A major new national plan is betting that a points-for-discounts system is the key to unlocking mass green consumption. This is how the initiative could turn your environmental choice into real savings, making sustainability the smartest buy on the shelf. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan What if every green ... false 1555 full What if every green purchase earned you tangible rewards? A major new national plan is betting that a points-for-discounts system is the key to unlocking mass green consumption. This is how the initiative could turn your environmental choice into real savings, making sustainability the smartest buy on the shelf. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Thu, 08 Jan 2026 05:30:00 GMT 1_2763439 Our cities' greatest resource isn't buried underground; it's hidden in plain sight within the very waste we discard. We journey into the world of urban mining to discover how yesterday's forgotten trash is being reclaimed as tomorrow's essential materials and how this process is turning our cityscapes into a new frontier of resource wealth. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Our cities' greatest... false 1598 full Our cities' greatest resource isn't buried underground; it's hidden in plain sight within the very waste we discard. We journey into the world of urban mining to discover how yesterday's forgotten trash is being reclaimed as tomorrow's essential materials and how this process is turning our cityscapes into a new frontier of resource wealth. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Thu, 08 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763436 When a persona goes viral for the wrong reasons, what comes next? We examine the backlash against the "performative male," tracing the arc from a staged aesthetic to a social tipping point. Authentic self-expression, or just repackaged performance? / Has the stinky durian become the hottest item in the supermarket (16:52)? On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun When a persona goes ... false 1412 full When a persona goes viral for the wrong reasons, what comes next? We examine the backlash against the "performative male," tracing the arc from a staged aesthetic to a social tipping point. Authentic self-expression, or just repackaged performance? / Has the stinky durian become the hottest item in the supermarket (16:52)? On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Wed, 07 Jan 2026 05:30:00 GMT 1_2763427 What if winter itself became a city's most valuable asset? In Harbin, ice is not mere artistry; it is the powerful engine driving a booming economy. We're going inside the world's largest snow festival to see how a frozen wonderland is creating a red-hot tourist boom. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun What if winter itsel... false 1748 full What if winter itself became a city's most valuable asset? In Harbin, ice is not mere artistry; it is the powerful engine driving a booming economy. We're going inside the world's largest snow festival to see how a frozen wonderland is creating a red-hot tourist boom. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Wed, 07 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763424 After ten years of "Do Not Disturb" signs, the most powerful room in the Forbidden City is back in business. Want to see where the Qing emperors actually lived, worked, and… gossiped? The Hall of Mental Cultivation is finally open. / Why do we doom-scroll our partner's ex (14:49)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei After ten years of "... false 1327 full After ten years of "Do Not Disturb" signs, the most powerful room in the Forbidden City is back in business. Want to see where the Qing emperors actually lived, worked, and… gossiped? The Hall of Mental Cultivation is finally open. / Why do we doom-scroll our partner's ex (14:49)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei Tue, 06 Jan 2026 05:30:00 GMT 1_2763415 China has officially entered a new era of demographic governance with the unveiling of the draft Childcare Services Law. While only about 8% of children under three are currently enrolled in formal childcare, the central government is now positioning it not as a private luxury but as a "basic public service." The draft introduces a mandatory national qualification system and comprehensive background checks. This marks a significant step toward professionalizing a sector long dominated by less regulated and often costly private providers. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei China has officially... false 1856 full China has officially entered a new era of demographic governance with the unveiling of the draft Childcare Services Law. While only about 8% of children under three are currently enrolled in formal childcare, the central government is now positioning it not as a private luxury but as a "basic public service." The draft introduces a mandatory national qualification system and comprehensive background checks. This marks a significant step toward professionalizing a sector long dominated by less regulated and often costly private providers. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei Tue, 06 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763412 Pink Himalayan salt sells for ten times the price of ordinary table salt, wrapped in an aura of wellness and luxury. But what are you really buying? Is it a superior mineral source, or are you paying for little more than a pretty color and clever marketing? We investigate the surprising truth behind the pink. / The Soapbox (14:44). On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun. Pink Himalayan salt ... false 1552 full Pink Himalayan salt sells for ten times the price of ordinary table salt, wrapped in an aura of wellness and luxury. But what are you really buying? Is it a superior mineral source, or are you paying for little more than a pretty color and clever marketing? We investigate the surprising truth behind the pink. / The Soapbox (14:44). On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun. Mon, 05 Jan 2026 05:30:00 GMT 1_2763403 What happens when your closest confidant is an algorithm? As millions form bonds with AI companions, China is responding with pioneering rules for this wild new frontier of digital intimacy. The crackdown on synthetic dependency seeks to build guardrails against emotional manipulation and preempt real-world harm. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun. What happens when yo... false 1609 full What happens when your closest confidant is an algorithm? As millions form bonds with AI companions, China is responding with pioneering rules for this wild new frontier of digital intimacy. The crackdown on synthetic dependency seeks to build guardrails against emotional manipulation and preempt real-world harm. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun. Mon, 05 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763400 No frills. No promos. No nonsense. Just rice, oil, and drinking water - cheaper than you ever thought possible. “Hard discount” supermarkets are rewriting China’s retail playbook. But how come shop owners get to keep the lights on while keeping prices low? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yangyang No frills. No promos... false 1112 full No frills. No promos. No nonsense. Just rice, oil, and drinking water - cheaper than you ever thought possible. “Hard discount” supermarkets are rewriting China’s retail playbook. But how come shop owners get to keep the lights on while keeping prices low? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yangyang Fri, 02 Jan 2026 05:30:00 GMT 1_2763265 If "body weight management" was once a private struggle, 2025 has made it a public dialogue. A social shift among young Chinese are quietly happening: the majority of GenZers still want to manage their weight, but motivations have evolved—from the gaze of others to self-discipline and health. Exercise dominates, social media provides accountability, and AI even lends emotional companionship. It's no longer about fitness, it's now about the psychology of modern youth. What does it mean when losing weight becomes a metaphor for regaining control in an unpredictable world? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yangyang If "body weight mana... false 1971 full If "body weight management" was once a private struggle, 2025 has made it a public dialogue. A social shift among young Chinese are quietly happening: the majority of GenZers still want to manage their weight, but motivations have evolved—from the gaze of others to self-discipline and health. Exercise dominates, social media provides accountability, and AI even lends emotional companionship. It's no longer about fitness, it's now about the psychology of modern youth. What does it mean when losing weight becomes a metaphor for regaining control in an unpredictable world? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yangyang Fri, 02 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763262 In late 2025, the most resonant piece of self-care advice in China didn't come from a lifestyle guru, but from an internet meme: 爱你老己 (Love yourself). A single, linguistically clever phrase blossomed into a cultural phenomenon. Its power was in repackaging the universal truth of self-love into something that felt intimate, shareable, and distinctly modern. This is the story of how language itself became a premier tool for wellness in the digital age. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan In late 2025, the mo... false 1128 full In late 2025, the most resonant piece of self-care advice in China didn't come from a lifestyle guru, but from an internet meme: 爱你老己 (Love yourself). A single, linguistically clever phrase blossomed into a cultural phenomenon. Its power was in repackaging the universal truth of self-love into something that felt intimate, shareable, and distinctly modern. This is the story of how language itself became a premier tool for wellness in the digital age. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Thu, 01 Jan 2026 05:30:00 GMT 1_2763364 As 2026 arrives, China pauses for a three-day national holiday, a dedicated celebration of new beginnings. Join us as we explore this cultural moment where tradition meets modernity, immersing you in the distinctive sounds, cherished flavors, and personal rituals of a nation taking a collective breath before stepping forward into the promise of the year ahead. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan As 2026 arrives, Chi... false 1923 full As 2026 arrives, China pauses for a three-day national holiday, a dedicated celebration of new beginnings. Join us as we explore this cultural moment where tradition meets modernity, immersing you in the distinctive sounds, cherished flavors, and personal rituals of a nation taking a collective breath before stepping forward into the promise of the year ahead. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Thu, 01 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763361 We've been painting a vivid, emotional portrait of 2025 through tags, words, and music. Yet every portrait needs a frame—and that frame is often economics. To explore it, Round Table recommends our colleagues' new podcast: XINQI Discovers China. Tune in with hosts Emma, Sear, and Steve. We've been painting ... false 3027 bonus We've been painting a vivid, emotional portrait of 2025 through tags, words, and music. Yet every portrait needs a frame—and that frame is often economics. To explore it, Round Table recommends our colleagues' new podcast: XINQI Discovers China. Tune in with hosts Emma, Sear, and Steve. Wed, 31 Dec 2025 10:00:00 GMT 1_2763373 The year 2025 has reached its final chapter, and it's time for all of us to say our goodbyes to the year. To mark this special year-end send-off, we're opening the doors wide for a final "Motivational Happy Place." We've gathered all of our guests, each ready to share a heartfelt, motivational message with our listeners to close out 2025 together. On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin, Yushan, Fei Fei, Laiming & Yushun The year 2025 has re... false 747 full The year 2025 has reached its final chapter, and it's time for all of us to say our goodbyes to the year. To mark this special year-end send-off, we're opening the doors wide for a final "Motivational Happy Place." We've gathered all of our guests, each ready to share a heartfelt, motivational message with our listeners to close out 2025 together. On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin, Yushan, Fei Fei, Laiming & Yushun Wed, 31 Dec 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2763370 What was the sound of 2025? It wasn't a single hit song, but a collection of sounds that moved from the background to the center of youth culture. We trace the soundtrack of a year through the adrenaline of blockbuster scores, the quirky loops of unboxing videos, and the hyper-catchy jingles from the streets. These sounds created a shared rhythm of hype, comfort, and memory. Together, they forged the unofficial anthems that defined a generation's experience. On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushan What was the sound o... false 2130 full What was the sound of 2025? It wasn't a single hit song, but a collection of sounds that moved from the background to the center of youth culture. We trace the soundtrack of a year through the adrenaline of blockbuster scores, the quirky loops of unboxing videos, and the hyper-catchy jingles from the streets. These sounds created a shared rhythm of hype, comfort, and memory. Together, they forged the unofficial anthems that defined a generation's experience. On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushan Wed, 31 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763367 Ever get the feeling your headphones are listening more than you are? You might be onto something. While nearly 60 million wireless units shipped in China in just the first half of this year, the real story is a design revolution. Headphones are no longer just an accessory; they're being engineered to become a seamless, intelligent part of your daily rhythm. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Ever get the feeling... false 1144 full Ever get the feeling your headphones are listening more than you are? You might be onto something. While nearly 60 million wireless units shipped in China in just the first half of this year, the real story is a design revolution. Headphones are no longer just an accessory; they're being engineered to become a seamless, intelligent part of your daily rhythm. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Tue, 30 Dec 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2763352 Ready to crack the cultural code of 2025? This year's viral words were more than just slang. They were secret signals revealing our collective fears, our defining humor, and the obsessions we couldn't scroll past. We decode the language that truly defined the last twelve months and uncover why these specific terms captured a global moment. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Ready to crack the c... false 2010 full Ready to crack the cultural code of 2025? This year's viral words were more than just slang. They were secret signals revealing our collective fears, our defining humor, and the obsessions we couldn't scroll past. We decode the language that truly defined the last twelve months and uncover why these specific terms captured a global moment. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Tue, 30 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763349 While every nation builds railways, China has carved its network through some of the most formidable landscapes on Earth: relentless deserts, frozen plains, active earthquake zones, unstable plateaus, and mountains that defy straight lines. Now, having surpassed the monumental milestone of fifty thousand kilometers, it is time for a reality check on the past, present, and future of Chinese high-speed rail. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun While every nation b... false 892 full While every nation builds railways, China has carved its network through some of the most formidable landscapes on Earth: relentless deserts, frozen plains, active earthquake zones, unstable plateaus, and mountains that defy straight lines. Now, having surpassed the monumental milestone of fifty thousand kilometers, it is time for a reality check on the past, present, and future of Chinese high-speed rail. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun Mon, 29 Dec 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2763259 When we reviewed this year's programming, one pattern became unmistakable: nearly half of our stories were touched by technology. Not only because tech dominated the headlines, but because it permeated everything else. In industry, mobility, healthcare, and even outer space, 2025 was the year technology ceased to be a sector and became the very environment we inhabit. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun When we reviewed thi... false 2275 full When we reviewed this year's programming, one pattern became unmistakable: nearly half of our stories were touched by technology. Not only because tech dominated the headlines, but because it permeated everything else. In industry, mobility, healthcare, and even outer space, 2025 was the year technology ceased to be a sector and became the very environment we inhabit. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun Mon, 29 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763256 It begins with a scratchy throat. Soon, your body aches and your head feels heavy, creating the familiar debate: is this just a cold or something more? Faced with crowded clinics and a packed schedule, you may notice online ads promising solutions, from at-home flu tests to treatments like a liquid mask. In 2025, the way we approach health decisions in China is changing. / Round Table's Happy Place (15:57)! On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Xingyu It begins with a scr... false 1317 full It begins with a scratchy throat. Soon, your body aches and your head feels heavy, creating the familiar debate: is this just a cold or something more? Faced with crowded clinics and a packed schedule, you may notice online ads promising solutions, from at-home flu tests to treatments like a liquid mask. In 2025, the way we approach health decisions in China is changing. / Round Table's Happy Place (15:57)! On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Xingyu Fri, 26 Dec 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2763247 A city's values are revealed not in its slogans, but in its leftovers. Thrown away, food waste is invisible—an inconvenient truth discarded. Redistributed with care, it becomes a mirror, reflecting a society's commitment to dignity, responsibility, and shared life. While food banks globally patch fragile safety nets, places like Shenzhen are reimagining the model entirely, shifting food aid from a stark last resort to a dignified, normalized feature of urban living. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Xingyu A city's values are ... false 1798 full A city's values are revealed not in its slogans, but in its leftovers. Thrown away, food waste is invisible—an inconvenient truth discarded. Redistributed with care, it becomes a mirror, reflecting a society's commitment to dignity, responsibility, and shared life. While food banks globally patch fragile safety nets, places like Shenzhen are reimagining the model entirely, shifting food aid from a stark last resort to a dignified, normalized feature of urban living. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Xingyu Fri, 26 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763244 It's human nature to want to put a face to a voice, and that instinct is exactly what's fueling the move toward video podcasts. This isn't just a new format; it's deepening the connection between creators and their audience and opening up entirely new ways to tell stories. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun It's human nature to... false 1436 full It's human nature to want to put a face to a voice, and that instinct is exactly what's fueling the move toward video podcasts. This isn't just a new format; it's deepening the connection between creators and their audience and opening up entirely new ways to tell stories. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Thu, 25 Dec 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2763232 China is drafting a law to protect Antarctica's environment, aligning with its international responsibilities under the Antarctic Treaty System and aiming to regulate activities on the continent to promote preservation and scientific cooperation. This proactive step reinforces China's commitment to sustainable governance and global ecological stewardship in one of Earth's most fragile and vital regions. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun China is drafting a ... false 1625 full China is drafting a law to protect Antarctica's environment, aligning with its international responsibilities under the Antarctic Treaty System and aiming to regulate activities on the continent to promote preservation and scientific cooperation. This proactive step reinforces China's commitment to sustainable governance and global ecological stewardship in one of Earth's most fragile and vital regions. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Thu, 25 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763229 A startling fact: reported rates of youth depression in China range from 4% to 41%. Why the huge gap? New research points to a fundamental flaw in the diagnostic tools themselves. This has major implications for treatment and policy. / The socks scandal: A 10-Minute guide (14:47). on the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan A startling fact: re... false 1368 full A startling fact: reported rates of youth depression in China range from 4% to 41%. Why the huge gap? New research points to a fundamental flaw in the diagnostic tools themselves. This has major implications for treatment and policy. / The socks scandal: A 10-Minute guide (14:47). on the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Wed, 24 Dec 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2763220 A health management regulation will take effect soon in the City of Hangzhou, east China's Zhejiang Province. How can legal policies help improve people's health? Today we look at how new laws are turning lifestyle into legislation—from your waistline to your daily routine. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan A health management ... false 1722 full A health management regulation will take effect soon in the City of Hangzhou, east China's Zhejiang Province. How can legal policies help improve people's health? Today we look at how new laws are turning lifestyle into legislation—from your waistline to your daily routine. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Wed, 24 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763217 A new trend is emerging across Chinese cities, where young people explore abandoned factories, unfinished buildings, and closed hospitals. They document these journeys online under labels like“urban ruins exploration,” championing a distinct“ruins aesthetics.”However, this popular pursuit is not without real danger. It raises urgent questions about safety, the pressures driving the trend, and what happens in spaces that exist beyond the reach of everyday oversight. / Is the "swag gap" killing relationships (14:41)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan A new trend is emerg... false 1430 full A new trend is emerging across Chinese cities, where young people explore abandoned factories, unfinished buildings, and closed hospitals. They document these journeys online under labels like“urban ruins exploration,” championing a distinct“ruins aesthetics.”However, this popular pursuit is not without real danger. It raises urgent questions about safety, the pressures driving the trend, and what happens in spaces that exist beyond the reach of everyday oversight. / Is the "swag gap" killing relationships (14:41)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Tue, 23 Dec 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2763208 What if we stopped grading students? This is no longer a hypothetical question. From primary schools in China to university classrooms in the United States, educators and policymakers are running a bold experiment. They are removing exams from the center of education to see what happens. If we change how we measure performance, will the real experience of learning finally improve? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan What if we stopped g... false 1729 full What if we stopped grading students? This is no longer a hypothetical question. From primary schools in China to university classrooms in the United States, educators and policymakers are running a bold experiment. They are removing exams from the center of education to see what happens. If we change how we measure performance, will the real experience of learning finally improve? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Tue, 23 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763205 Forget personal reading goals. This is about a national ambition. Imagine a government that sees its core job as clearing the path between you and a good book. This is the vision now driving China, transforming reading from a quiet hobby into a public project. We explore the reality of a society built for readers. / Motivational Monday (19:29). On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun. Forget personal read... false 1459 full Forget personal reading goals. This is about a national ambition. Imagine a government that sees its core job as clearing the path between you and a good book. This is the vision now driving China, transforming reading from a quiet hobby into a public project. We explore the reality of a society built for readers. / Motivational Monday (19:29). On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun. Mon, 22 Dec 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2763196 What if your car could legally say,“I'll take it from here?" China just crossed that threshold, issuing its first permits for conditional self-driving cars on public roads. But what does“conditional”actually mean for drivers—and what tough turns still lie ahead on the path to full autonomy? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun. What if your car cou... false 1687 full What if your car could legally say,“I'll take it from here?" China just crossed that threshold, issuing its first permits for conditional self-driving cars on public roads. But what does“conditional”actually mean for drivers—and what tough turns still lie ahead on the path to full autonomy? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun. Mon, 22 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763193 The distinctive scrape of skates carving ice now echoes in unexpected corners of China. From the tropical south to the northern heartland, a new generation is embracing hockey's grit and speed, recently celebrated in a historic championship sweep. This is a story of a sport on fast-forward: a nation attempting to skate the long journey from curious novelty to genuine contender in record time. / Round Table's Happy Place (21:35)! On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan The distinctive scra... false 1562 full The distinctive scrape of skates carving ice now echoes in unexpected corners of China. From the tropical south to the northern heartland, a new generation is embracing hockey's grit and speed, recently celebrated in a historic championship sweep. This is a story of a sport on fast-forward: a nation attempting to skate the long journey from curious novelty to genuine contender in record time. / Round Table's Happy Place (21:35)! On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Fri, 19 Dec 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2763186 In a small county in China, a quiet revolution is reshaping a global jewelry industry. In Zhecheng, central China's Henan Province, lab-grown diamonds are produced at a fraction of the traditional cost. This phenomenon is a clear signal of how China's formidable local economies are becoming pivotal drivers of global markets. What does this county-level prowess mean for the future of global manufacturing and consumption patterns? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan In a small county in... false 1585 full In a small county in China, a quiet revolution is reshaping a global jewelry industry. In Zhecheng, central China's Henan Province, lab-grown diamonds are produced at a fraction of the traditional cost. This phenomenon is a clear signal of how China's formidable local economies are becoming pivotal drivers of global markets. What does this county-level prowess mean for the future of global manufacturing and consumption patterns? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Fri, 19 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763180 The global push for carbon reduction is reshaping supply chains in unexpected ways. As aviation looks for viable paths to decarbonize, attention has turned to materials that already exist in everyday life. Waste, once treated as an endpoint, is increasingly viewed as a starting point. Used cooking oil is being elevated into a prized raw material in China as sustainable aviation fuel. Are environmental goals, industrial capacity, and global demand happily colliding here? / AI hits the streets: from sidewalks to startups (13:42). On the show: Niu Honglin, Laiming & Yushun The global push for ... false 1311 full The global push for carbon reduction is reshaping supply chains in unexpected ways. As aviation looks for viable paths to decarbonize, attention has turned to materials that already exist in everyday life. Waste, once treated as an endpoint, is increasingly viewed as a starting point. Used cooking oil is being elevated into a prized raw material in China as sustainable aviation fuel. Are environmental goals, industrial capacity, and global demand happily colliding here? / AI hits the streets: from sidewalks to startups (13:42). On the show: Niu Honglin, Laiming & Yushun Thu, 18 Dec 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2763145 Hainan is making headlines these days, because of the island-wide special customs operations at Hainan Free Trade Port. Behind the policy language and tariff schedules, we ask a simpler question: how will this reform change people's daily life? For businesses, workers, investors, and residents, Hainan's customs transition is more than just about trade, but also cost, opportunities, mobility, and a new future for the island. On the show: Niu Honglin, Laiming & Yushun Hainan is making hea... false 1866 full Hainan is making headlines these days, because of the island-wide special customs operations at Hainan Free Trade Port. Behind the policy language and tariff schedules, we ask a simpler question: how will this reform change people's daily life? For businesses, workers, investors, and residents, Hainan's customs transition is more than just about trade, but also cost, opportunities, mobility, and a new future for the island. On the show: Niu Honglin, Laiming & Yushun Thu, 18 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763142 The global erosion of oral traditions continues not for lack of value, but because modern life leaves little room for slow, spoken memory. As languages vanish and elders pass on, entire ways of understanding the world disappear with them. Yet, the revival of Yimakan, from near-extinction to international recognition, demonstrates a powerful alternative. It shows that cultural heritage can survive not by being frozen in the past, but by finding a vital place in the present. / The joy and benefit of being bad at something (17:27). On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei The global erosion o... false 1505 full The global erosion of oral traditions continues not for lack of value, but because modern life leaves little room for slow, spoken memory. As languages vanish and elders pass on, entire ways of understanding the world disappear with them. Yet, the revival of Yimakan, from near-extinction to international recognition, demonstrates a powerful alternative. It shows that cultural heritage can survive not by being frozen in the past, but by finding a vital place in the present. / The joy and benefit of being bad at something (17:27). On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei Wed, 17 Dec 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2763104 China's aging society is turning to an innovative solution. The Time Bank allows volunteers to earn care credits by helping others today, securing support for their own future needs. This model transforms neighborly help into a sustainable system. How is this modern mutual aid network redefining elder care? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei China's aging societ... false 1672 full China's aging society is turning to an innovative solution. The Time Bank allows volunteers to earn care credits by helping others today, securing support for their own future needs. This model transforms neighborly help into a sustainable system. How is this modern mutual aid network redefining elder care? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei Wed, 17 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763101 When a global metropolis abandons de-icing agents, what happens? Beijing is finding out. To protect its environment, the city is swapping chemicals for manpower, trading spreaders for shovels. How can this modern capital handle winter the old-fashioned way? We examine the high-stakes experiment on Beijing's icy streets. / Is small talk dying (15:05)? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun When a global metrop... false 1394 full When a global metropolis abandons de-icing agents, what happens? Beijing is finding out. To protect its environment, the city is swapping chemicals for manpower, trading spreaders for shovels. How can this modern capital handle winter the old-fashioned way? We examine the high-stakes experiment on Beijing's icy streets. / Is small talk dying (15:05)? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Tue, 16 Dec 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2763072 What if artificial intelligence could step out of the screen and into the real world? This is not just about smarter conversation. This is Embodied Intelligence. Imagine a robot that does not just calculate a chess move, but physically makes it. Not every smart robot qualifies, so what changes when AI gains a physical form? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun What if artificial i... false 1739 full What if artificial intelligence could step out of the screen and into the real world? This is not just about smarter conversation. This is Embodied Intelligence. Imagine a robot that does not just calculate a chess move, but physically makes it. Not every smart robot qualifies, so what changes when AI gains a physical form? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Tue, 16 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763069 For decades, countries have invested heavily in engineering education. Despite this, many still face a persistent problem where graduates are theoretically proficient but lack practical readiness. This gap between academic training and industrial application is not unique to any one nation. China, however, is pursuing a distinct approach through its coordinated national strategy, the Outstanding Engineer training reform. This initiative aims to reshape how engineers are educated, with potential consequences for innovation worldwide./ Motivational Monday (18:41)! On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei For decades, countri... false 1559 full For decades, countries have invested heavily in engineering education. Despite this, many still face a persistent problem where graduates are theoretically proficient but lack practical readiness. This gap between academic training and industrial application is not unique to any one nation. China, however, is pursuing a distinct approach through its coordinated national strategy, the Outstanding Engineer training reform. This initiative aims to reshape how engineers are educated, with potential consequences for innovation worldwide./ Motivational Monday (18:41)! On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei Mon, 15 Dec 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2763025 For generations, the mercury thermometer has been a staple in Chinese households, its familiar ritual marking moments of care and concern. However, in accordance with the Minamata Convention and national environment and health policies, China is officially phasing out its production. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei For generations, the... false 1616 full For generations, the mercury thermometer has been a staple in Chinese households, its familiar ritual marking moments of care and concern. However, in accordance with the Minamata Convention and national environment and health policies, China is officially phasing out its production. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei Mon, 15 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2763022 In most professions, experience is an asset. In academia, it is becoming a barrier. A system of intense competition and rigid quotas now uses age as a crude filter for efficiency, devaluing the very time required to build knowledge. This calculus forces a stark reassessment of the PhD's worth and what our universities truly value. / The anxiety of being left "on read" (18:24). On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan In most professions,... false 1607 full In most professions, experience is an asset. In academia, it is becoming a barrier. A system of intense competition and rigid quotas now uses age as a crude filter for efficiency, devaluing the very time required to build knowledge. This calculus forces a stark reassessment of the PhD's worth and what our universities truly value. / The anxiety of being left "on read" (18:24). On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Fri, 12 Dec 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2762947 It's been ten years since the landmark Paris Agreement, and its novel engine of national pledges and global transparency now faces a decisive test against record warming and a widening climate finance gap. The journey to this point reveals a story of unexpected turns and stubborn realities. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan It's been ten years ... false 1554 full It's been ten years since the landmark Paris Agreement, and its novel engine of national pledges and global transparency now faces a decisive test against record warming and a widening climate finance gap. The journey to this point reveals a story of unexpected turns and stubborn realities. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Fri, 12 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2762944 China's“strictest ever" e-bike safety standard is now the law of the land. Nearly 400 million rides are impacted. The mandate? Tougher frames, safer batteries—a complete upgrade for a new generation on two wheels. But what about the trusty bike in your garage? Will shops still service it? Will parts still exist? The transition has arrived. We break down exactly what it means for your daily ride and your wallet. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan China's“strictest ev... false 1707 full China's“strictest ever" e-bike safety standard is now the law of the land. Nearly 400 million rides are impacted. The mandate? Tougher frames, safer batteries—a complete upgrade for a new generation on two wheels. But what about the trusty bike in your garage? Will shops still service it? Will parts still exist? The transition has arrived. We break down exactly what it means for your daily ride and your wallet. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Thu, 11 Dec 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2762911 With cold season here, our disposable mask defense is back. But when we toss it away, its story isn't over. It begins a centuries-long sentence in landfills and oceans. What if we could commute that sentence? Scientists may have found a way, transforming this symbol of waste into a tool for cleanup. Is this the key to breaking a toxic cycle? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan With cold season her... false 1445 full With cold season here, our disposable mask defense is back. But when we toss it away, its story isn't over. It begins a centuries-long sentence in landfills and oceans. What if we could commute that sentence? Scientists may have found a way, transforming this symbol of waste into a tool for cleanup. Is this the key to breaking a toxic cycle? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Thu, 11 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2762908 Walking into a mall today reveals a striking contrast: traditional gold jewelry counters stand hushed, while the same brands' online livestreams explode with millions of viewers. Young Chinese consumers are redefining gold, transforming it into fashion, investment, and entertainment all at once. The gold rush is back, and its drivers are entirely new. / All eyes on Hainan International Film Festival (19:06). On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Guo Yan Walking into a mall ... false 1546 full Walking into a mall today reveals a striking contrast: traditional gold jewelry counters stand hushed, while the same brands' online livestreams explode with millions of viewers. Young Chinese consumers are redefining gold, transforming it into fashion, investment, and entertainment all at once. The gold rush is back, and its drivers are entirely new. / All eyes on Hainan International Film Festival (19:06). On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Guo Yan Wed, 10 Dec 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2762877 We've all been there: racing to check in only to find every decent seat locked behind a paywall. A new investigation confirms airlines are testing passenger limits just as high-speed rail emerges as a smoother alternative. As air travel grows more arduous and costly, who wins the traveler's heart? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Guo Yan We've all been there... false 1605 full We've all been there: racing to check in only to find every decent seat locked behind a paywall. A new investigation confirms airlines are testing passenger limits just as high-speed rail emerges as a smoother alternative. As air travel grows more arduous and costly, who wins the traveler's heart? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Guo Yan Wed, 10 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2762874 Plugging a colossal solar farm into the grid requires the precision of open-heart surgery on our power networks. The universal playbook engineers need for this task is now a reality. Forged by China and 13 other countries, this new global standard is the critical blueprint for a renewable future. / How do you stay warm and safe in deep winter (15:07)? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Plugging a colossal ... false 1304 full Plugging a colossal solar farm into the grid requires the precision of open-heart surgery on our power networks. The universal playbook engineers need for this task is now a reality. Forged by China and 13 other countries, this new global standard is the critical blueprint for a renewable future. / How do you stay warm and safe in deep winter (15:07)? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Tue, 09 Dec 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2762843 China's logistics revolution is turning science fiction into reality, using unmanned technology like drones to deliver fresh produce to remote villages and reshape rural economies. Yet significant obstacles stand in the way. Can it clear these final barriers? We explore the promise and the challenges ahead. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun China's logistics re... false 1833 full China's logistics revolution is turning science fiction into reality, using unmanned technology like drones to deliver fresh produce to remote villages and reshape rural economies. Yet significant obstacles stand in the way. Can it clear these final barriers? We explore the promise and the challenges ahead. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Tue, 09 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2762840 How much of a nature survivalist are you? Extreme reality survival competitions have become more than just shows; they are now a cultural phenomenon, inspiring a generation to trade urban comforts for the challenges of the wilderness. These competitions are catalysts for a widespread movement, one that is actively redefining our ideas of adventure, self-reliance, and our fundamental relationship with the untamed power of nature. / Motivational Monday (21:09)! On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan How much of a nature... false 1500 full How much of a nature survivalist are you? Extreme reality survival competitions have become more than just shows; they are now a cultural phenomenon, inspiring a generation to trade urban comforts for the challenges of the wilderness. These competitions are catalysts for a widespread movement, one that is actively redefining our ideas of adventure, self-reliance, and our fundamental relationship with the untamed power of nature. / Motivational Monday (21:09)! On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Mon, 08 Dec 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2762801 China's monumental effort to plant nearly 200 billion trees since the 1970s is now facing a critical test. Scientists have discovered that these vast new forests, a cornerstone of the fight against climate change, are severely impacting water resources. This urgent challenge has spurred the country to lead a global shift toward "water-smart forestry," adapting its strategy for a world where every drop counts. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan China's monumental e... false 1659 full China's monumental effort to plant nearly 200 billion trees since the 1970s is now facing a critical test. Scientists have discovered that these vast new forests, a cornerstone of the fight against climate change, are severely impacting water resources. This urgent challenge has spurred the country to lead a global shift toward "water-smart forestry," adapting its strategy for a world where every drop counts. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Mon, 08 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2762798 A universal key. Over a hundred muted screens in Shanghai. A debatable, possibly illegal act that went viral—and exposed a deep, shared frustration: the elevator ads no one asked for and no one can escape. In the shared space of an elevator, who gets the final say? / Round Table's Happy Place (17:17)! On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun A universal key. Ove... false 1556 full A universal key. Over a hundred muted screens in Shanghai. A debatable, possibly illegal act that went viral—and exposed a deep, shared frustration: the elevator ads no one asked for and no one can escape. In the shared space of an elevator, who gets the final say? / Round Table's Happy Place (17:17)! On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun Fri, 05 Dec 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2762724 Cities worldwide are drowning in trash. Landfills are full, oceans are clogged with plastic. Many are trying to change, but one effort stands apart in its sheer scale and ambition: China's nationwide push to build“zero-waste cities.”The goal is a system where everything is reused, repurposed, or recovered. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun Cities worldwide are... false 1600 full Cities worldwide are drowning in trash. Landfills are full, oceans are clogged with plastic. Many are trying to change, but one effort stands apart in its sheer scale and ambition: China's nationwide push to build“zero-waste cities.”The goal is a system where everything is reused, repurposed, or recovered. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun Fri, 05 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2762721 For many Chinese students, winter once meant chilly classrooms and bundled-up uniforms. Now, it brings free ski passes and extra family time. This new wave of "snow holidays" meets a generation's craving for movement, experience, and hands-on learning. As cities roll out offerings from free ski lessons to ice-fishing festivals, we are witnessing an ambitious attempt to transform snow into a genuine opportunity. / Have you stolen some sugarcane (17:58)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei For many Chinese stu... false 1521 full For many Chinese students, winter once meant chilly classrooms and bundled-up uniforms. Now, it brings free ski passes and extra family time. This new wave of "snow holidays" meets a generation's craving for movement, experience, and hands-on learning. As cities roll out offerings from free ski lessons to ice-fishing festivals, we are witnessing an ambitious attempt to transform snow into a genuine opportunity. / Have you stolen some sugarcane (17:58)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei Thu, 04 Dec 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2762684 In China, a generation raised on digital savvy is rewriting the rules of consumption. Their new status symbol is one of financial intelligence: the pre-owned electric vehicle. Confronting a cooling used-car market and the steep depreciation of new energy vehicles, they see opportunity instead of crisis. They apply a hacker's mindset to mobility, finding luxury in efficiency and status in savvy calculation. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei In China, a generati... false 1658 full In China, a generation raised on digital savvy is rewriting the rules of consumption. Their new status symbol is one of financial intelligence: the pre-owned electric vehicle. Confronting a cooling used-car market and the steep depreciation of new energy vehicles, they see opportunity instead of crisis. They apply a hacker's mindset to mobility, finding luxury in efficiency and status in savvy calculation. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei Thu, 04 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2762681 What if you could control the camera during a live sports broadcast? Not just choosing a feed, but swooping in for a courtside view or looking down from the rafters? A new streaming tech out of China is making that a reality. It's called "ultimate perspective," and it builds a virtual, 3D model of the game as it happens. The world is watching the innovation that could change how we see sports. / When the weather turns cold, why is it that we want to eat literally anything within our reach (15:04)? On the show: Steve, Yushan & Xingyu What if you could co... false 1612 full What if you could control the camera during a live sports broadcast? Not just choosing a feed, but swooping in for a courtside view or looking down from the rafters? A new streaming tech out of China is making that a reality. It's called "ultimate perspective," and it builds a virtual, 3D model of the game as it happens. The world is watching the innovation that could change how we see sports. / When the weather turns cold, why is it that we want to eat literally anything within our reach (15:04)? On the show: Steve, Yushan & Xingyu Wed, 03 Dec 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2762645 On December 3rd, we mark the International Day of Disabled Persons. China has made remarkable strides in accessibility, with public facilities now widely available. But true progress means moving beyond construction to thoughtful design and everyday usability. How do we transform spaces into places of genuine inclusion? We explore the journey from accessibility on paper to inclusion in practice. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Xingyu On December 3rd, we ... false 1517 full On December 3rd, we mark the International Day of Disabled Persons. China has made remarkable strides in accessibility, with public facilities now widely available. But true progress means moving beyond construction to thoughtful design and everyday usability. How do we transform spaces into places of genuine inclusion? We explore the journey from accessibility on paper to inclusion in practice. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Xingyu Wed, 03 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2762642 How many times in your life do you retire? The traditional answer—once—is being overturned by a new wave of workers embracing months-long disconnections, or micro-retirements. This trend is a direct response to systemic burnout, prompting a vital debate on the real career risks of trading future security for present sanity. / The music to calm your pet (19:03). On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun How many times in yo... false 1522 full How many times in your life do you retire? The traditional answer—once—is being overturned by a new wave of workers embracing months-long disconnections, or micro-retirements. This trend is a direct response to systemic burnout, prompting a vital debate on the real career risks of trading future security for present sanity. / The music to calm your pet (19:03). On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Tue, 02 Dec 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2762609 Sensitive skin is now a widespread reality across China, with a booming care market standing at the intersection of hope and skepticism. As winter settles in, the hidden triggers behind the reactivity, the bold claims on every bottle, and the definitive science behind the persuasive spin all come into focus. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Sensitive skin is no... false 1633 full Sensitive skin is now a widespread reality across China, with a booming care market standing at the intersection of hope and skepticism. As winter settles in, the hidden triggers behind the reactivity, the bold claims on every bottle, and the definitive science behind the persuasive spin all come into focus. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun Tue, 02 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2762606 Artificial intelligence now aids in diagnosing conditions such as depression within China's mental health system. By analyzing vocal patterns and micro-expressions, these technologies offer the potential for enhanced clinical efficiency and early intervention. Yet their arrival invites a deeper reflection on the nature of care itself, challenging us to balance the precision of algorithms with the irreplaceable role of human empathy. / Motivational Monday (20:28)! On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Artificial intellige... false 1440 full Artificial intelligence now aids in diagnosing conditions such as depression within China's mental health system. By analyzing vocal patterns and micro-expressions, these technologies offer the potential for enhanced clinical efficiency and early intervention. Yet their arrival invites a deeper reflection on the nature of care itself, challenging us to balance the precision of algorithms with the irreplaceable role of human empathy. / Motivational Monday (20:28)! On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Mon, 01 Dec 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2762570 Gig work in China is entering a new phase. Leading delivery platforms are building affordable apartments for riders and introducing new welfare benefits. These measures offer the promise of security for millions. But the future of these improvements remains uncertain. The true test will be whether these benefits are a stable foundation or if their cost is quietly moved back onto workers through the platform's systems. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Gig work in China is... false 1712 full Gig work in China is entering a new phase. Leading delivery platforms are building affordable apartments for riders and introducing new welfare benefits. These measures offer the promise of security for millions. But the future of these improvements remains uncertain. The true test will be whether these benefits are a stable foundation or if their cost is quietly moved back onto workers through the platform's systems. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan Mon, 01 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2762567 In an era of calendar reminders and digital rewards, our relationship with work is evolving. The very tools designed to boost productivity can leave us feeling less capable of deep, thoughtful work. We are losing our grasp on focused attention, a precious resource in the modern world. It is time to explore what this means for our creativity, our growth, and our ability to do truly meaningful work. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Laiming In an era of calenda... false 986 full In an era of calendar reminders and digital rewards, our relationship with work is evolving. The very tools designed to boost productivity can leave us feeling less capable of deep, thoughtful work. We are losing our grasp on focused attention, a precious resource in the modern world. It is time to explore what this means for our creativity, our growth, and our ability to do truly meaningful work. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Laiming Fri, 28 Nov 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2762477 Tune in to #GlobalSouthNextGen: Voices and Visions, and join the conversation with three young scientists from the Global South. One builds open science tools for communities that need them most. One explores the universe through the language of mathematics. One ensures AI applications work for real people speaking different languages and living different lives. Check out their stories Tune in to #GlobalSo... false 2093 full Tune in to #GlobalSouthNextGen: Voices and Visions, and join the conversation with three young scientists from the Global South. One builds open science tools for communities that need them most. One explores the universe through the language of mathematics. One ensures AI applications work for real people speaking different languages and living different lives. Check out their stories Fri, 28 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2762474 To hear Gen Z talk is to witness a linguistic revolution. The profanity once deemed most vulgar now often passes without comment. However, language that attacks a person's race, gender, or ability is firmly and immediately condemned. This new hierarchy of what makes words offensive speaks volumes about our evolving social values. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Laiming To hear Gen Z talk i... false 986 full To hear Gen Z talk is to witness a linguistic revolution. The profanity once deemed most vulgar now often passes without comment. However, language that attacks a person's race, gender, or ability is firmly and immediately condemned. This new hierarchy of what makes words offensive speaks volumes about our evolving social values. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Laiming Thu, 27 Nov 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2762441 In what ways can KOLs better use their power in an age where a single video can reach millions? Tune in to #GlobalSouthNextGen: Voices and Visions, and check out the stories of two KOLs from Ghana and Indonesia who use their creativity, empathy, and the shared desire to make people understand each other a little better. In what ways can KOL... false 2213 full In what ways can KOLs better use their power in an age where a single video can reach millions? Tune in to #GlobalSouthNextGen: Voices and Visions, and check out the stories of two KOLs from Ghana and Indonesia who use their creativity, empathy, and the shared desire to make people understand each other a little better. Thu, 27 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2762438 If you've noticed friends sharing "temple-style" meals or vibrant plant-based hot pots online, you're witnessing a national shift. Plant-based dining has blossomed into one of China's most dynamic food trends, captivating far more than just vegetarians. From students to CEOs, a growing movement is embracing lighter, greener meals. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Laiming If you've noticed fr... false 1023 full If you've noticed friends sharing "temple-style" meals or vibrant plant-based hot pots online, you're witnessing a national shift. Plant-based dining has blossomed into one of China's most dynamic food trends, captivating far more than just vegetarians. From students to CEOs, a growing movement is embracing lighter, greener meals. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Laiming Wed, 26 Nov 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2762405 Tune in to #GlobalSouthNextGen: Voices and Visions! Hear the incredible stories of the young entrepreneurs who are doing things differently. One connects beauty services with people in need, while the other turns waste into sustainable solutions, all while lifting up their communities. Don't you miss this! Tune in to #GlobalSo... false 2106 full Tune in to #GlobalSouthNextGen: Voices and Visions! Hear the incredible stories of the young entrepreneurs who are doing things differently. One connects beauty services with people in need, while the other turns waste into sustainable solutions, all while lifting up their communities. Don't you miss this! Wed, 26 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2762402 The internet is filled with promises that weight loss can be hacked through timing tricks and radical diets. But behind the glossy success stories, doctors are seeing a dangerous reality: emergency visits and broken metabolisms from plans lifted from social media, not science. It's time to separate the fast fixes from the facts, and explore why a responsible, long-term approach to health looks nothing like what the algorithm rewards. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan The internet is fill... false 1037 full The internet is filled with promises that weight loss can be hacked through timing tricks and radical diets. But behind the glossy success stories, doctors are seeing a dangerous reality: emergency visits and broken metabolisms from plans lifted from social media, not science. It's time to separate the fast fixes from the facts, and explore why a responsible, long-term approach to health looks nothing like what the algorithm rewards. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Tue, 25 Nov 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2762377 From Singapore’s magical coding for a cleaner world to Brazil’s green policy shifts... There is a lot that young people can do in our common quest for sustainability. Find out more about efforts to tackle one of the biggest challenges of our times in a new episode of #GlobalSouthNextGen: Voices and Visions. Guests: Ian Chew, Founder and CEO of Greenie Web, Singapore Douglas Ferreira, international relations coordinator of Worker's Party Youth, Brazil From Singapore’s mag... false 2126 full From Singapore’s magical coding for a cleaner world to Brazil’s green policy shifts... There is a lot that young people can do in our common quest for sustainability. Find out more about efforts to tackle one of the biggest challenges of our times in a new episode of #GlobalSouthNextGen: Voices and Visions. Guests: Ian Chew, Founder and CEO of Greenie Web, Singapore Douglas Ferreira, international relations coordinator of Worker's Party Youth, Brazil Tue, 25 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2762369 Forget the restaurants. The most authentic meal in China might just be in a government canteen. As these buildings open their doors to the public, serving up real food at real prices, public service is getting a new meaning. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Xingyu Forget the restauran... false 1071 full Forget the restaurants. The most authentic meal in China might just be in a government canteen. As these buildings open their doors to the public, serving up real food at real prices, public service is getting a new meaning. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Xingyu Mon, 24 Nov 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2762334 As a young person, how to ensure decision-makers would hear our perspectives? How to spark real changes to the issues we care about? How to get on to the global stage to share our ideas? Join us for #GlobalSouthNextGen: Voices and Visions, to discover how young people around the world make their voices heard and shape the future. Guests: -Hannah Hopper, the Chair of the South African Youth for International Diplomacy (SAYID). -Himadrish Suwan, Chairman of the Confederation of Young Leaders of India -Azizuddin Ahmad, Executive Secretary, Asian Youth Council As a young person, h... false 2110 full As a young person, how to ensure decision-makers would hear our perspectives? How to spark real changes to the issues we care about? How to get on to the global stage to share our ideas? Join us for #GlobalSouthNextGen: Voices and Visions, to discover how young people around the world make their voices heard and shape the future. Guests: -Hannah Hopper, the Chair of the South African Youth for International Diplomacy (SAYID). -Himadrish Suwan, Chairman of the Confederation of Young Leaders of India -Azizuddin Ahmad, Executive Secretary, Asian Youth Council Mon, 24 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2762329 The fight for a library chair in China is no small matter. It's a real-time stress test of our public spaces, revealing the delicate balance between offering sanctuary for all and catering to personal demands. / Round Table's Happy Place (17:25). On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun. The fight for a libr... false 1453 full The fight for a library chair in China is no small matter. It's a real-time stress test of our public spaces, revealing the delicate balance between offering sanctuary for all and catering to personal demands. / Round Table's Happy Place (17:25). On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun. Fri, 21 Nov 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2762252 The story of climate change is no longer a distant forecast; as COP30 reminds us, it is written in the fate of our world's forests, the acidity of our oceans, and the livelihoods of billions. And in this unfolding story, China's climate commitments are becoming pivotal chapters, adding both decisive weight and a sense of achievable hope. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun. The story of climate... false 1711 full The story of climate change is no longer a distant forecast; as COP30 reminds us, it is written in the fate of our world's forests, the acidity of our oceans, and the livelihoods of billions. And in this unfolding story, China's climate commitments are becoming pivotal chapters, adding both decisive weight and a sense of achievable hope. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun. Fri, 21 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2762249 Remember when a perfect avocado was a special splurge? That idea is getting a major upgrade. In China, "fruit freedom" is turning yesterday's luxuries into today's everyday staples, powered by a revolution in smart tech and digital supply chains. So what does this new era of affordable abundance mean for the future of our food? / Why do more young people prefer eating at KTVs (12:42)? On the show: Steve, Yushan & Xingyu Remember when a perf... false 1307 full Remember when a perfect avocado was a special splurge? That idea is getting a major upgrade. In China, "fruit freedom" is turning yesterday's luxuries into today's everyday staples, powered by a revolution in smart tech and digital supply chains. So what does this new era of affordable abundance mean for the future of our food? / Why do more young people prefer eating at KTVs (12:42)? On the show: Steve, Yushan & Xingyu Thu, 20 Nov 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2762214 Forget the shopping livestreams that once flooded your feed. In China, a new digital courtroom is in session, where lawyers dispense immediate advice to millions online. This revolution offers unprecedented access, sidestepping traditional firms. But this instant justice comes with a price, sparking urgent debates about the ethics of legal counsel at the speed of a click. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Xingyu Forget the shopping ... false 1845 full Forget the shopping livestreams that once flooded your feed. In China, a new digital courtroom is in session, where lawyers dispense immediate advice to millions online. This revolution offers unprecedented access, sidestepping traditional firms. But this instant justice comes with a price, sparking urgent debates about the ethics of legal counsel at the speed of a click. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Xingyu Thu, 20 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2762211 A hotel should be a sanctuary for rest. Yet many travelers now feel a flicker of doubt at the sight of a provided towel or the hotel bed. The fundamental expectation of feeling safe and clean away from home is being questioned by ordinary people who just want peace of mind. / Heart to Heart - please send your audio questions to roundtablepodcast@qq.com (16:20). On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan A hotel should be a ... false 1424 full A hotel should be a sanctuary for rest. Yet many travelers now feel a flicker of doubt at the sight of a provided towel or the hotel bed. The fundamental expectation of feeling safe and clean away from home is being questioned by ordinary people who just want peace of mind. / Heart to Heart - please send your audio questions to roundtablepodcast@qq.com (16:20). On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Wed, 19 Nov 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2762171 A newfound appreciation for local dialects is growing on China's university campuses. Recent surveys reveal that an overwhelming majority of students are interested in these regional tongues and want to help preserve them. This interest has sparked practical action, and students are now at the forefront of a movement to weave these ancient linguistic threads into the fabric of modern life. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan A newfound appreciat... false 1737 full A newfound appreciation for local dialects is growing on China's university campuses. Recent surveys reveal that an overwhelming majority of students are interested in these regional tongues and want to help preserve them. This interest has sparked practical action, and students are now at the forefront of a movement to weave these ancient linguistic threads into the fabric of modern life. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Wed, 19 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2762168 Across the world, people are growing unexpectedly self-conscious about the tiny sounds and pauses that sneak into our speech. These filler words are universal, ancient, and deeply human. So why have they suddenly become a source of linguistic insecurity? / The problem with maybe (16:45). On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan. Across the world, ... false 1470 full Across the world, people are growing unexpectedly self-conscious about the tiny sounds and pauses that sneak into our speech. These filler words are universal, ancient, and deeply human. So why have they suddenly become a source of linguistic insecurity? / The problem with maybe (16:45). On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan. Tue, 18 Nov 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2762137 University public courses often live in extremes: they are either profoundly inspiring or profoundly forgettable. What separates the lecture you dreaded from the class you never wanted to end? How can universities make these foundational courses more meaningful, more memorable, and more worthy of a student's time and attention? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun. University public co... false 1691 full University public courses often live in extremes: they are either profoundly inspiring or profoundly forgettable. What separates the lecture you dreaded from the class you never wanted to end? How can universities make these foundational courses more meaningful, more memorable, and more worthy of a student's time and attention? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun. Tue, 18 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2762134 Beyond the lecture halls, a new campus ecosystem thrives online. Student we-media creators are building their brands from dorm rooms, navigating the pull of academic demands against the allure of digital fame. Their growing follower counts bring a hidden calculus of costs that weighs on their studies, their mental well-being, and the quiet of shared living spaces. / Motivational Monday (18:24)! On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Beyond the lecture h... false 1434 full Beyond the lecture halls, a new campus ecosystem thrives online. Student we-media creators are building their brands from dorm rooms, navigating the pull of academic demands against the allure of digital fame. Their growing follower counts bring a hidden calculus of costs that weighs on their studies, their mental well-being, and the quiet of shared living spaces. / Motivational Monday (18:24)! On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Mon, 17 Nov 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2762096 At Beijing's 2025 Global AI+ Conference, the future of AI is being shaped today. The big question is how China's distinct model of AI integration will redefine not only its own technological frontier, but the entire global digital landscape. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun At Beijing's 2025 Gl... false 1701 full At Beijing's 2025 Global AI+ Conference, the future of AI is being shaped today. The big question is how China's distinct model of AI integration will redefine not only its own technological frontier, but the entire global digital landscape. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Mon, 17 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2762093 Viral memes and opaque online phrases now weave through classroom discussions and office conversations. While educators note distracted students and parents fret over shrinking vocabularies, linguists point to the gradual fading of nuance in everyday speech. As abbreviated expressions increasingly stand in for complex thought, we are left to wonder what is ultimately lost when shortcuts replace substance. / Round Table's Happy Place (17:22)! On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun Viral memes and opaq... false 1504 full Viral memes and opaque online phrases now weave through classroom discussions and office conversations. While educators note distracted students and parents fret over shrinking vocabularies, linguists point to the gradual fading of nuance in everyday speech. As abbreviated expressions increasingly stand in for complex thought, we are left to wonder what is ultimately lost when shortcuts replace substance. / Round Table's Happy Place (17:22)! On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun Fri, 14 Nov 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2762018 Humanoid robots are capturing global attention, moving from Shanghai's assembly lines to viral videos out of Silicon Valley. Yet for every genuine breakthrough, a cleverly engineered demo seems designed solely for investor buzz. With China pushing for mass production by 2025 and global rivals close behind, the world is waiting to see when these machines will finally become a practical part of our daily lives. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun Humanoid robots are ... false 1657 full Humanoid robots are capturing global attention, moving from Shanghai's assembly lines to viral videos out of Silicon Valley. Yet for every genuine breakthrough, a cleverly engineered demo seems designed solely for investor buzz. With China pushing for mass production by 2025 and global rivals close behind, the world is waiting to see when these machines will finally become a practical part of our daily lives. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun Fri, 14 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2762015 The convenience of one-click ordering often obscures a meal's origin. New regulations in China address this directly, requiring a "No Dine-In" label on ghost kitchens, a significant move for consumer safety and market transparency. / Is cash cringe (15:56)? On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun The convenience of o... false 1476 full The convenience of one-click ordering often obscures a meal's origin. New regulations in China address this directly, requiring a "No Dine-In" label on ghost kitchens, a significant move for consumer safety and market transparency. / Is cash cringe (15:56)? On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Thu, 13 Nov 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2761979 The rise of EVs in China is accelerating an automotive design revolution. While innovations such as frunks and zero-gravity seats redefine the cabin experience, they simultaneously ignite a critical global debate concerning their inherent safety implications. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun The rise of EVs in C... false 1680 full The rise of EVs in China is accelerating an automotive design revolution. While innovations such as frunks and zero-gravity seats redefine the cabin experience, they simultaneously ignite a critical global debate concerning their inherent safety implications. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Thu, 13 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2761976 Heart to Heart - please send your audio questions to roundtablepodcast@qq.com. / If you've noticed friends sharing "temple-style" meals or vibrant plant-based hot pots online, you're witnessing a national shift. Plant-based dining has blossomed into one of China's most dynamic food trends, captivating far more than just vegetarians. From students to CEOs, a growing movement is embracing lighter, greener meals (09:41). On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Laiming Heart to Heart - ple... false 1572 full Heart to Heart - please send your audio questions to roundtablepodcast@qq.com. / If you've noticed friends sharing "temple-style" meals or vibrant plant-based hot pots online, you're witnessing a national shift. Plant-based dining has blossomed into one of China's most dynamic food trends, captivating far more than just vegetarians. From students to CEOs, a growing movement is embracing lighter, greener meals (09:41). On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Laiming Wed, 12 Nov 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2761943 China's marathon boom, which brought millions of runners and billions in revenue to the streets of the country's biggest cities, is now facing a deliberate slowdown. With new regulations taking effect this autumn, the focus has shifted from explosive growth to long-term stability. The Chinese Athletics Association is prioritizing safety and professionalism over sheer speed, leaving the entire industry to wonder what happens when an economy built on momentum is suddenly told to slow down. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Laiming China's marathon boo... false 1605 full China's marathon boom, which brought millions of runners and billions in revenue to the streets of the country's biggest cities, is now facing a deliberate slowdown. With new regulations taking effect this autumn, the focus has shifted from explosive growth to long-term stability. The Chinese Athletics Association is prioritizing safety and professionalism over sheer speed, leaving the entire industry to wonder what happens when an economy built on momentum is suddenly told to slow down. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Laiming Wed, 12 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2761940 This year, China's high-speed rail system began welcoming a new kind of passenger: the four-legged kind. A pilot program for pet consignment launched in April and has now expanded to 40 stations and 50 trains, allowing cats and dogs to travel on their own. So, are you ready to plan a great trip for your furry friend? / Is a“desk lunch”a sad lunch (12:06)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Xingyu This year, China's h... false 1325 full This year, China's high-speed rail system began welcoming a new kind of passenger: the four-legged kind. A pilot program for pet consignment launched in April and has now expanded to 40 stations and 50 trains, allowing cats and dogs to travel on their own. So, are you ready to plan a great trip for your furry friend? / Is a“desk lunch”a sad lunch (12:06)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Xingyu Tue, 11 Nov 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2761910 Seventeen years after its debut, China's Double Eleven shopping festival no longer roars with the same frenzy of flashing deals and sleepless nights. E-commerce platforms are now focusing inward to optimize their operations with AI and instant retail. At the same time, they are expanding outward into global markets. The race has transformed from one about the loudest promotions to one about the most durable and efficient logistics. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Xingyu Seventeen years afte... false 1853 full Seventeen years after its debut, China's Double Eleven shopping festival no longer roars with the same frenzy of flashing deals and sleepless nights. E-commerce platforms are now focusing inward to optimize their operations with AI and instant retail. At the same time, they are expanding outward into global markets. The race has transformed from one about the loudest promotions to one about the most durable and efficient logistics. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Xingyu Tue, 11 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2761907 The family group chat has entered its awkward phase. Designed for connection, it now often manufactures obligation, leading to a wave of quiet mutinies. This isn't a breakdown of family ties, but a user-led revolt against a platform that demands too much. The lesson? In the 21st century, setting a digital boundary is becoming a vital form of care. / Motivational Monday (18:37)! On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun The family group cha... false 1434 full The family group chat has entered its awkward phase. Designed for connection, it now often manufactures obligation, leading to a wave of quiet mutinies. This isn't a breakdown of family ties, but a user-led revolt against a platform that demands too much. The lesson? In the 21st century, setting a digital boundary is becoming a vital form of care. / Motivational Monday (18:37)! On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Mon, 10 Nov 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2761864 This November, the 15th National Games will electrify Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao with a wave of renewed energy. As the nation's elite athletes converge to pursue glory, the Games themselves are redefining tradition. Prepare for a spectacle where cutting-edge technology meets sustainable design, and where the competition program expands with thrilling new events. This is more than a tournament; it's a dynamic new vision for the future of sport. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun This November, the 1... false 1718 full This November, the 15th National Games will electrify Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao with a wave of renewed energy. As the nation's elite athletes converge to pursue glory, the Games themselves are redefining tradition. Prepare for a spectacle where cutting-edge technology meets sustainable design, and where the competition program expands with thrilling new events. This is more than a tournament; it's a dynamic new vision for the future of sport. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Mon, 10 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2761861 Move over, dating apps. The most reliable connection in your life could be the colleague seated next to you—the one who has endured your cringiest presentations and talked you down from professional despair. Perhaps the true purpose of the modern workplace is to provide you with a platonic life partner. After all, once someone has seen the real, unfiltered you at your worst, they may have already earned the role of your most permanent plus-one. / The great salt debate (14:01). On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Move over, dating ap... false 1196 full Move over, dating apps. The most reliable connection in your life could be the colleague seated next to you—the one who has endured your cringiest presentations and talked you down from professional despair. Perhaps the true purpose of the modern workplace is to provide you with a platonic life partner. After all, once someone has seen the real, unfiltered you at your worst, they may have already earned the role of your most permanent plus-one. / The great salt debate (14:01). On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Fri, 07 Nov 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2761786 Recent media reports identify Shanghai's elderly as a major mall consumer group. This often-overlooked demographic now dominates weekday foot traffic, pushing retailers to design spaces and services that appeal to both older and younger generations. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Recent media reports... false 1975 full Recent media reports identify Shanghai's elderly as a major mall consumer group. This often-overlooked demographic now dominates weekday foot traffic, pushing retailers to design spaces and services that appeal to both older and younger generations. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Fri, 07 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2761783 In bustling kitchens across China, steam rises and pans fly, yet no one breaks a sweat. The chef is made of steel. Across the country, robotic cooks are quietly transforming how we eat. They are fast, consistent, and never need a break. But as algorithms take over the wok, the future of the human touch in cooking hangs in the balance. The subtle intuition of a seasoned chef and the warm connection between cook and eater are now what's on the line. / The down dilemma: decoding price, quality, and standards in winter wear (17:31). On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Ding Heng In bustling kitchens... false 1465 full In bustling kitchens across China, steam rises and pans fly, yet no one breaks a sweat. The chef is made of steel. Across the country, robotic cooks are quietly transforming how we eat. They are fast, consistent, and never need a break. But as algorithms take over the wok, the future of the human touch in cooking hangs in the balance. The subtle intuition of a seasoned chef and the warm connection between cook and eater are now what's on the line. / The down dilemma: decoding price, quality, and standards in winter wear (17:31). On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Ding Heng Thu, 06 Nov 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2761746 In classrooms from Nairobi to online forums in Berlin, a new wave of learners is embracing Mandarin. Their goal is not to pass examinations but to engage directly with a culture that captivates them. This grassroots movement is fundamentally about people seeking new forms of community and understanding. Behind this linguistic boom lies a deeper story, one about curiosity, identity, and the power of culture to bridge worlds. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Ding Heng In classrooms from N... false 1627 full In classrooms from Nairobi to online forums in Berlin, a new wave of learners is embracing Mandarin. Their goal is not to pass examinations but to engage directly with a culture that captivates them. This grassroots movement is fundamentally about people seeking new forms of community and understanding. Behind this linguistic boom lies a deeper story, one about curiosity, identity, and the power of culture to bridge worlds. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Ding Heng Thu, 06 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2761743 China now has more than 125 million one-person households, fueling the rapid growth of the solo dining market. Restaurants are responding with mini hotpots and partitioned barbecue seats, designed for a generation seeking both efficiency and a personal dining experience. This trend tells a larger story about evolving family structures and new consumption habits, revealing how businesses are adapting to serve a more individualized society. / Gold panning tourism (15:18)! On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan China now has more t... false 1428 full China now has more than 125 million one-person households, fueling the rapid growth of the solo dining market. Restaurants are responding with mini hotpots and partitioned barbecue seats, designed for a generation seeking both efficiency and a personal dining experience. This trend tells a larger story about evolving family structures and new consumption habits, revealing how businesses are adapting to serve a more individualized society. / Gold panning tourism (15:18)! On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Wed, 05 Nov 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2761708 In an era of redefined global supply chains, the China International Import Expo stands as a testament to the enduring power of openness. With its streamlined customs, debut products, and sustainable innovations, the Expo weaves a compelling narrative of connection, not isolation, as the true engine of prosperity in our uncertain times. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan In an era of redefin... false 1647 full In an era of redefined global supply chains, the China International Import Expo stands as a testament to the enduring power of openness. With its streamlined customs, debut products, and sustainable innovations, the Expo weaves a compelling narrative of connection, not isolation, as the true engine of prosperity in our uncertain times. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Wed, 05 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2761705 There's a certain allure to the idea of doing it yourself, a promise of simplicity and satisfaction. Yet, what begins as a straightforward endeavor can quietly unravel, demanding far more than you ever intended to give. Instead of saving resources, the process often consumes them in unexpected ways, leaving you with a different outcome than the one you first imagined. / Exploring “day-off shame” in modern workplaces (11:59). On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu There's a certain al... false 1346 full There's a certain allure to the idea of doing it yourself, a promise of simplicity and satisfaction. Yet, what begins as a straightforward endeavor can quietly unravel, demanding far more than you ever intended to give. Instead of saving resources, the process often consumes them in unexpected ways, leaving you with a different outcome than the one you first imagined. / Exploring “day-off shame” in modern workplaces (11:59). On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu Tue, 04 Nov 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2761669 For students in China, the high-pressure race toward the "Zhongkao" defines their early youth. Now, a pilot program in Chengdu is eliminating this decisive high school entrance exam for some students. The radical move promises relief from an immense academic burden, aiming to give students back their childhoods. Yet without this single, universal benchmark, some wonder if the path to a bright future has become clearer or far more uncertain. On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu For students in Chin... false 1734 full For students in China, the high-pressure race toward the "Zhongkao" defines their early youth. Now, a pilot program in Chengdu is eliminating this decisive high school entrance exam for some students. The radical move promises relief from an immense academic burden, aiming to give students back their childhoods. Yet without this single, universal benchmark, some wonder if the path to a bright future has become clearer or far more uncertain. On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu Tue, 04 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2761666 Digital resurrection has arrived, but its ethics are dangerously unclear. The recent use of a recreated scholar to promote tea brought about a question that didn't exist a decade ago. Is this a legitimate tribute, or a commercial exploitation of the dead? The urgent question is no longer can we do this, but should we? / Motivational Monday (17:07)! On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Digital resurrection... false 1213 full Digital resurrection has arrived, but its ethics are dangerously unclear. The recent use of a recreated scholar to promote tea brought about a question that didn't exist a decade ago. Is this a legitimate tribute, or a commercial exploitation of the dead? The urgent question is no longer can we do this, but should we? / Motivational Monday (17:07)! On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Mon, 03 Nov 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2761627 The 'Curse of 35,' a notorious career barrier, is officially under attack. In a major policy reversal, the government has lifted the age restriction for its civil service exams. This is a direct message to the nation's experienced workforce: you are not obsolete. The move now puts the ball in corporate China's court. Will they answer the call? On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun The 'Curse of 35,' a... false 1877 full The 'Curse of 35,' a notorious career barrier, is officially under attack. In a major policy reversal, the government has lifted the age restriction for its civil service exams. This is a direct message to the nation's experienced workforce: you are not obsolete. The move now puts the ball in corporate China's court. Will they answer the call? On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Mon, 03 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2761624 Why are we drawn to what scares us? A new report has a surprising answer: horror is self-care. We break down the science of how a monster on the screen can help you fight the monsters in your mind, revealing what a haunted house or a zombie apocalypse can teach your brain about calm. There's a surprising link between terror and tranquility! / Round Table's Happy Place (20:21)! On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu Why are we drawn to ... false 1550 full Why are we drawn to what scares us? A new report has a surprising answer: horror is self-care. We break down the science of how a monster on the screen can help you fight the monsters in your mind, revealing what a haunted house or a zombie apocalypse can teach your brain about calm. There's a surprising link between terror and tranquility! / Round Table's Happy Place (20:21)! On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu Fri, 31 Oct 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2761548 From October 31st to November 1st, many of the world's most influential leaders are convening in South Korea for the APEC summit, united by a shared optimism to transform the ambitious theme of "Building a Sustainable Tomorrow" into a tangible reality for the entire Asia-Pacific. On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu From October 31st to... false 1534 full From October 31st to November 1st, many of the world's most influential leaders are convening in South Korea for the APEC summit, united by a shared optimism to transform the ambitious theme of "Building a Sustainable Tomorrow" into a tangible reality for the entire Asia-Pacific. On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu Fri, 31 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2761545 You've likely seen a service fee, a tip line, or even a small charge for that sealed pack of tissues. But what about a "tea fee" that's not for the pot you ordered, but for every single seat at your table? This is the unexpected charge sparking debate and leaving diners surprised at restaurants in certain areas of China. What would you do if you found it on your bill?/ Heart to Heart - please send your audio questions to roundtablepodcast@qq.com (14:58). On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan You've likely seen a... false 1372 full You've likely seen a service fee, a tip line, or even a small charge for that sealed pack of tissues. But what about a "tea fee" that's not for the pot you ordered, but for every single seat at your table? This is the unexpected charge sparking debate and leaving diners surprised at restaurants in certain areas of China. What would you do if you found it on your bill?/ Heart to Heart - please send your audio questions to roundtablepodcast@qq.com (14:58). On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Thu, 30 Oct 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2761508 Today on our special APEC Youth Series, we're joined by two distinguished voices: Chen Xiaobin, a 2025 APEC Summit delegate for young entrepreneurs and Vice Chair of the Asia-Pacific Entrepreneurs Annual Forum; and Laura Nguyen, Founding Partner at GenAI Fund and Head of Vietnam for Ava Labs. They share their unique perspectives on the critical intersection of technology and sustainability. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Today on our special... false 1731 full Today on our special APEC Youth Series, we're joined by two distinguished voices: Chen Xiaobin, a 2025 APEC Summit delegate for young entrepreneurs and Vice Chair of the Asia-Pacific Entrepreneurs Annual Forum; and Laura Nguyen, Founding Partner at GenAI Fund and Head of Vietnam for Ava Labs. They share their unique perspectives on the critical intersection of technology and sustainability. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Thu, 30 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2761505 In China, the ninth day of the ninth lunar month has always been a day to climb high, both in body and spirit. The Double Ninth Festival calls us to honor those who came before and to look ahead to the future we are building together. Today, as China grows older and wiser, aging is no longer a distant topic concerning our grandparents. From national strategies to smart robots, from young caregivers to digital helpers, we explore how silver and youth can shine together. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan In China, the ninth ... false 1447 full In China, the ninth day of the ninth lunar month has always been a day to climb high, both in body and spirit. The Double Ninth Festival calls us to honor those who came before and to look ahead to the future we are building together. Today, as China grows older and wiser, aging is no longer a distant topic concerning our grandparents. From national strategies to smart robots, from young caregivers to digital helpers, we explore how silver and youth can shine together. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Wed, 29 Oct 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2761466 Welcome to Round Table's APEC Youth Series, where we spotlight a new generation reshaping the Asia-Pacific. In this special series, we'll meet the young changemakers who are redefining "development" across the region. For our first conversation, Round Table's Niu Honglin is joined by Lv Xiaoning, co-founder of the Asia Pacific Entrepreneurs Annual Forum. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Welcome to Round Tab... false 1676 full Welcome to Round Table's APEC Youth Series, where we spotlight a new generation reshaping the Asia-Pacific. In this special series, we'll meet the young changemakers who are redefining "development" across the region. For our first conversation, Round Table's Niu Honglin is joined by Lv Xiaoning, co-founder of the Asia Pacific Entrepreneurs Annual Forum. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Wed, 29 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2761463 If college English tests were a video game, the CET-4 (College English Test-4) would be entry-level and the CET-6, hero mode. While some players pass and move on, others keep replaying for higher scores to unlock better loot—like jobs or scholarships. So, is this drive for a high score a genuine passion for improvement, or just academic FOMO? / To thank or not to thank AI (14:28)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan If college English t... false 1352 full If college English tests were a video game, the CET-4 (College English Test-4) would be entry-level and the CET-6, hero mode. While some players pass and move on, others keep replaying for higher scores to unlock better loot—like jobs or scholarships. So, is this drive for a high score a genuine passion for improvement, or just academic FOMO? / To thank or not to thank AI (14:28)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Tue, 28 Oct 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2761425 They call it "the most fake business in China,"yet it's never been more real. From the workshops of Xuchang to TikTok screens worldwide, strands of hair weave tales of labor, reinvention, and pride. We explore how lives are being changed, starting from the top. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan They call it "the mo... false 1768 full They call it "the most fake business in China,"yet it's never been more real. From the workshops of Xuchang to TikTok screens worldwide, strands of hair weave tales of labor, reinvention, and pride. We explore how lives are being changed, starting from the top. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Tue, 28 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2761422 The traditional bar of soap is being replaced by serums, sunscreen, and makeup. Men's grooming is in the midst of a profound transformation, with market spending reaching new heights. This evolution forces us to ask what is driving the change and how legacy brands are responding. The face of masculinity is being redefined, one skincare routine at a time. / Motivational Monday (17:34)! On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun The traditional bar ... false 1301 full The traditional bar of soap is being replaced by serums, sunscreen, and makeup. Men's grooming is in the midst of a profound transformation, with market spending reaching new heights. This evolution forces us to ask what is driving the change and how legacy brands are responding. The face of masculinity is being redefined, one skincare routine at a time. / Motivational Monday (17:34)! On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Mon, 27 Oct 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2761385 The October 2025 launch of a new online platform's healthcare venture marks a significant acceleration in the digital transformation of China's medical sector. This move is emblematic of a powerful, broader trend: the strategic entry of Chinese tech titans like Alibaba and JD, alongside specialized health firms, into the industry. By integrating advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, streamlined online consultations, and direct hospital services, these players are constructing comprehensive digital health ecosystems. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun The October 2025 lau... false 1798 full The October 2025 launch of a new online platform's healthcare venture marks a significant acceleration in the digital transformation of China's medical sector. This move is emblematic of a powerful, broader trend: the strategic entry of Chinese tech titans like Alibaba and JD, alongside specialized health firms, into the industry. By integrating advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, streamlined online consultations, and direct hospital services, these players are constructing comprehensive digital health ecosystems. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Mon, 27 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2761382 The old dream was built on ownership: a house for security, a car for status. But China's younger generation is trading that dream for a new kind of freedom. Why own things that tie you down, when you can rent a lifestyle that lifts you up? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan. The old dream was bu... false 1184 full The old dream was built on ownership: a house for security, a car for status. But China's younger generation is trading that dream for a new kind of freedom. Why own things that tie you down, when you can rent a lifestyle that lifts you up? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan. Fri, 24 Oct 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2761308 October 24th, is United Nations Day, and we're wrapping up our special series with a grand finale. Here on Round Table, Heyang is joined by Dong Xiaoman, who brings her unique insider perspective from her work with both UNOPS and the UN Youth Office. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan. October 24th, is Uni... false 1910 full October 24th, is United Nations Day, and we're wrapping up our special series with a grand finale. Here on Round Table, Heyang is joined by Dong Xiaoman, who brings her unique insider perspective from her work with both UNOPS and the UN Youth Office. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan. Fri, 24 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2761304 China's MICE sector is back, bigger than predicted. As the world flocks back, what's driving its stunning rebound? And how is China masterfully fusing its cultural story with business? The answers are reshaping the future of global events. / What are some of young people's complaints on museum visits(13:52)? On the show: Steve, Yushun & Fei Fei China's MICE sector ... false 1324 full China's MICE sector is back, bigger than predicted. As the world flocks back, what's driving its stunning rebound? And how is China masterfully fusing its cultural story with business? The answers are reshaping the future of global events. / What are some of young people's complaints on museum visits(13:52)? On the show: Steve, Yushun & Fei Fei Thu, 23 Oct 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2761270 International cooperation transcends strategic interests; it's about creating tangible improvements in people's daily lives. In the second installment of our UN 80 series, Round Table's Heyang sits down with Zhu Yixing from the UN Population Fund (UNFPA). They explore China's evolving role in global development and discuss how collaborative action is driving progress in health, gender equality, and opportunity for future generations. On the show: Steve, Yushun & Fei Fei International cooper... false 1767 full International cooperation transcends strategic interests; it's about creating tangible improvements in people's daily lives. In the second installment of our UN 80 series, Round Table's Heyang sits down with Zhu Yixing from the UN Population Fund (UNFPA). They explore China's evolving role in global development and discuss how collaborative action is driving progress in health, gender equality, and opportunity for future generations. On the show: Steve, Yushun & Fei Fei Thu, 23 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2761267 Remember the screech of chalk on a blackboard? In China, that sound has been replaced by the silent glow of electronic screens. This multi-billion dollar classroom upgrade promises a high-tech future for learning. But for parents, it brings a familiar worry. They fear we are sacrificing our children's eyesight for digital progress. So, is this a leap forward for education, or a step back for our kids' health? / Heart to Heart - please send your audio questions to roundtablepodcast@qq.com (16:18). On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Remember the screech... false 1301 full Remember the screech of chalk on a blackboard? In China, that sound has been replaced by the silent glow of electronic screens. This multi-billion dollar classroom upgrade promises a high-tech future for learning. But for parents, it brings a familiar worry. They fear we are sacrificing our children's eyesight for digital progress. So, is this a leap forward for education, or a step back for our kids' health? / Heart to Heart - please send your audio questions to roundtablepodcast@qq.com (16:18). On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Wed, 22 Oct 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2761229 Eighty years after its founding, the United Nations' mission remains as vital as ever. But is it still relevant to younger generations? In this first episode of our series commemorating the UN's 80th anniversary, Round Table's Heyang sits down with content creator Qin Qian. Leveraging his insider experience at the UN, Qin connects with China's youth through his popular social media channel. Together, they explore why this relevance is crucial and how young voices are reimagining the UN for the next generation. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Eighty years after i... false 1789 full Eighty years after its founding, the United Nations' mission remains as vital as ever. But is it still relevant to younger generations? In this first episode of our series commemorating the UN's 80th anniversary, Round Table's Heyang sits down with content creator Qin Qian. Leveraging his insider experience at the UN, Qin connects with China's youth through his popular social media channel. Together, they explore why this relevance is crucial and how young voices are reimagining the UN for the next generation. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Wed, 22 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2761226 Hospitals were once dreaded places of slow time and harsh disinfectant. Now, a wellness revolution is transforming them into destinations young people visit even when they aren't sick. These hubs for sophisticated self-care are winning hearts with offerings that range from herbal-infused gourmet mooncakes to advanced medical-grade aesthetic treatments. / Performance dining (13:22). On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Xingyu. Hospitals were once ... false 1334 full Hospitals were once dreaded places of slow time and harsh disinfectant. Now, a wellness revolution is transforming them into destinations young people visit even when they aren't sick. These hubs for sophisticated self-care are winning hearts with offerings that range from herbal-infused gourmet mooncakes to advanced medical-grade aesthetic treatments. / Performance dining (13:22). On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Xingyu. Tue, 21 Oct 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2761192 Every generation has its "first step into society." For today's youth, that step often begins far from home, in cities where dreams are tall but rent is even taller. That's where "Youth Hubs" come in. Now in over 200 cities across China, these 2,600 hubs offer more than a roof. They provide career guidance and employment services for new graduates, alongside a feeling of warmth and a community that's rooting for you. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Xingyu. Every generation has... false 1737 full Every generation has its "first step into society." For today's youth, that step often begins far from home, in cities where dreams are tall but rent is even taller. That's where "Youth Hubs" come in. Now in over 200 cities across China, these 2,600 hubs offer more than a roof. They provide career guidance and employment services for new graduates, alongside a feeling of warmth and a community that's rooting for you. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Xingyu. Tue, 21 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2761189 We've been promised the future would be on our faces. Now, a new wave of AI glasses is testing whether the technology can finally live up to its grand vision. The result may just change how you see the world, literally. / Motivational Monday (16:28)! On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun We've been promised ... false 1202 full We've been promised the future would be on our faces. Now, a new wave of AI glasses is testing whether the technology can finally live up to its grand vision. The result may just change how you see the world, literally. / Motivational Monday (16:28)! On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Mon, 20 Oct 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2761155 What if your car could do more than just save you money on gas? Vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology is transforming electric vehicles from simple transportation into something far more dynamic: portable power plants. But is this a genuine energy revolution accessible to everyday people, or is it merely a high-tech fantasy? On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun What if your car cou... false 1895 full What if your car could do more than just save you money on gas? Vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology is transforming electric vehicles from simple transportation into something far more dynamic: portable power plants. But is this a genuine energy revolution accessible to everyday people, or is it merely a high-tech fantasy? On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Mon, 20 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2761152 What if a wedding swapped the grand ballroom for a favorite local spot? We're diving into how Gen Z is rewriting the rules, creating celebrations that are intensely personal and authentically theirs. / Round Table's Happy Place (18:19)! On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun What if a wedding sw... false 1437 full What if a wedding swapped the grand ballroom for a favorite local spot? We're diving into how Gen Z is rewriting the rules, creating celebrations that are intensely personal and authentically theirs. / Round Table's Happy Place (18:19)! On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Fri, 17 Oct 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2761074 We've all wished for a 'block' button on a difficult client. Well, for delivery riders in China, that fantasy is now real. A major platform is giving them the power to refuse service to unreasonable customers. This is a radical shift in service industry power dynamics, and it's a complete game changer. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun We've all wished for... false 1624 full We've all wished for a 'block' button on a difficult client. Well, for delivery riders in China, that fantasy is now real. A major platform is giving them the power to refuse service to unreasonable customers. This is a radical shift in service industry power dynamics, and it's a complete game changer. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Fri, 17 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2761071 Travel photography first became a dream service for newlyweds almost a decade ago. Over time, it's also grown popular with families with kids and individuals who want portraits taken in stunning, real-world locations. But behind the glossy images lie hidden fees, logistical chaos, and fierce competition. We explore the industry's rise and the turbulence facing industry giants. / Dad nursery rooms in shopping malls (11:25). On the show: Heyang, Steve & Yushan Travel photography f... false 1027 full Travel photography first became a dream service for newlyweds almost a decade ago. Over time, it's also grown popular with families with kids and individuals who want portraits taken in stunning, real-world locations. But behind the glossy images lie hidden fees, logistical chaos, and fierce competition. We explore the industry's rise and the turbulence facing industry giants. / Dad nursery rooms in shopping malls (11:25). On the show: Heyang, Steve & Yushan Thu, 16 Oct 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2761061 The global gaming industry, now larger than film and music combined, generates over $184 billion. Women make up nearly half of all gamers worldwide, profoundly shaping game design, esports, and culture. We explore the shift and its future impact. On the show: Heyang, Steve & Yushan The global gaming in... false 2031 full The global gaming industry, now larger than film and music combined, generates over $184 billion. Women make up nearly half of all gamers worldwide, profoundly shaping game design, esports, and culture. We explore the shift and its future impact. On the show: Heyang, Steve & Yushan Thu, 16 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2761058 China's media landscape is shifting focus from traditional studios to artificial intelligence. The rapid ascent of "comic dramas," short form and automated productions, is revolutionizing the industry. This analysis explores how plummeting costs and massive scalability are fueling algorithmic storytelling and its wider implications. / Heart to Heart - please send your audio questions to roundtablepodcast@qq.com (14:48). On the show: Steve, Yushan & Guo Yan China's media landsc... false 1356 full China's media landscape is shifting focus from traditional studios to artificial intelligence. The rapid ascent of "comic dramas," short form and automated productions, is revolutionizing the industry. This analysis explores how plummeting costs and massive scalability are fueling algorithmic storytelling and its wider implications. / Heart to Heart - please send your audio questions to roundtablepodcast@qq.com (14:48). On the show: Steve, Yushan & Guo Yan Wed, 15 Oct 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2760999 Imagine the physical, emotional, and financial weight of caring for an aging parent with significant disabilities. This July, China launched a new subsidy program to lighten that load. The pilot response has been overwhelming, with over 243,000 vouchers used almost immediately. But is this innovative approach enough to lift the burden, and what hurdles must it still clear? On the show: Steve, Yushan & Guo Yan Imagine the physical... false 1796 full Imagine the physical, emotional, and financial weight of caring for an aging parent with significant disabilities. This July, China launched a new subsidy program to lighten that load. The pilot response has been overwhelming, with over 243,000 vouchers used almost immediately. But is this innovative approach enough to lift the burden, and what hurdles must it still clear? On the show: Steve, Yushan & Guo Yan Wed, 15 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2760996 Your short-form video app is having an identity crisis. One moment you're watching a viral clip, the next you're thrust into a live video chat with a stranger. These platforms are no longer just for passive viewing; they're making a massive bet that we crave conversation more than just tapping 'like.' Is this the next social revolution, or simply a more sophisticated trap for our attention? / Why are employees turning their desks into mini gyms (16:22)? On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu Your short-form vide... false 1504 full Your short-form video app is having an identity crisis. One moment you're watching a viral clip, the next you're thrust into a live video chat with a stranger. These platforms are no longer just for passive viewing; they're making a massive bet that we crave conversation more than just tapping 'like.' Is this the next social revolution, or simply a more sophisticated trap for our attention? / Why are employees turning their desks into mini gyms (16:22)? On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu Tue, 14 Oct 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2760966 Forget the guidebooks—the new travel itinerary is written in the stars. "Stargazing tourism" is booming, but why? We explore why travelers are now chasing celestial events and weather phenomena. On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu Forget the guidebook... false 1588 full Forget the guidebooks—the new travel itinerary is written in the stars. "Stargazing tourism" is booming, but why? We explore why travelers are now chasing celestial events and weather phenomena. On the show: Steve, Yushun & Xingyu Tue, 14 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2760963 Chalk, test, grade, repeat. But what if school got a makeover? Out goes the one-size-fits-all lecture; in comes co-teaching, flipped classrooms, and "exit tickets" that feel more like reality TV than report cards. What if we stopped teaching AT students and started learning WITH them? We're exploring the classrooms breaking the old mold, one collaboration at a time. / Motivational Monday (20:19)! On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun Chalk, test, grade, ... false 1502 full Chalk, test, grade, repeat. But what if school got a makeover? Out goes the one-size-fits-all lecture; in comes co-teaching, flipped classrooms, and "exit tickets" that feel more like reality TV than report cards. What if we stopped teaching AT students and started learning WITH them? We're exploring the classrooms breaking the old mold, one collaboration at a time. / Motivational Monday (20:19)! On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun Mon, 13 Oct 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2760929 If you've ever felt your stomach drop looking down from a tall building, imagine driving across a bridge nearly twice the height of the Eiffel Tower. This is the thrilling new journey in Guizhou, turning a two-hour drive into a two-minute spectacle. It's efficient, beautiful, and challenges everything we assume about crossing a gorge. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun If you've ever felt ... false 1617 full If you've ever felt your stomach drop looking down from a tall building, imagine driving across a bridge nearly twice the height of the Eiffel Tower. This is the thrilling new journey in Guizhou, turning a two-hour drive into a two-minute spectacle. It's efficient, beautiful, and challenges everything we assume about crossing a gorge. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushun Mon, 13 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2760926 Women in science have shattered barriers and redefined possibility—yet the path forward demands even greater strides. Join Heyang in conversation with Li Tianzhen of DP Technology as they explore the milestones worth celebrating, the systemic challenges still to overcome, and the power of women claiming their space and voice in the tech landscape. Women in science hav... false 1607 full Women in science have shattered barriers and redefined possibility—yet the path forward demands even greater strides. Join Heyang in conversation with Li Tianzhen of DP Technology as they explore the milestones worth celebrating, the systemic challenges still to overcome, and the power of women claiming their space and voice in the tech landscape. Sat, 11 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2760874 The age-old experience of shopping for groceries is being redefined, as supermarkets evolve into sophisticated food halls. With the line between restaurant and market now dissolving, are these "grocerants" merely a transient trend, or do they signal the next chapter in the future of food? / Round Table's Happy Place (12:25)! On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun The age-old experien... false 1078 full The age-old experience of shopping for groceries is being redefined, as supermarkets evolve into sophisticated food halls. With the line between restaurant and market now dissolving, are these "grocerants" merely a transient trend, or do they signal the next chapter in the future of food? / Round Table's Happy Place (12:25)! On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Fri, 10 Oct 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2760845 What does it mean to lead as a woman today? As the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women prepares to convene in Beijing, the story of Dr. Lin Li offers a compelling answer. A Guzheng virtuoso and a war studies scholar, Dr. Lin's journey is a powerful testament to a new paradigm of leadership—one that integrates, rather than separates, our deepest passions. Round Table's Niu Honglin sat down with Dr. Lin to explore this unique confluence of art and academia. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun What does it mean to... false 1993 full What does it mean to lead as a woman today? As the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women prepares to convene in Beijing, the story of Dr. Lin Li offers a compelling answer. A Guzheng virtuoso and a war studies scholar, Dr. Lin's journey is a powerful testament to a new paradigm of leadership—one that integrates, rather than separates, our deepest passions. Round Table's Niu Honglin sat down with Dr. Lin to explore this unique confluence of art and academia. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Fri, 10 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2760842 How does an expedition to Antarctica prepare someone to lead a sustainability venture in Beijing? Round Table's Heyang sits down with Songqiao Yao, the founder of Wildbound.earth. She's a leader whose path is as unique as her mission. In the first of a special series on groundbreaking young women, we explore how a spirit of exploration fuels one entrepreneur's drive to tackle our planet's biggest challenges. On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushan How does an expediti... false 1679 full How does an expedition to Antarctica prepare someone to lead a sustainability venture in Beijing? Round Table's Heyang sits down with Songqiao Yao, the founder of Wildbound.earth. She's a leader whose path is as unique as her mission. In the first of a special series on groundbreaking young women, we explore how a spirit of exploration fuels one entrepreneur's drive to tackle our planet's biggest challenges. On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushan Thu, 09 Oct 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2760811 As China's National Day holiday wraps up, we look back at a week defined by massive movement, packed tourist spots, and a surge in consumer spending. Join us for a recap of the biggest stories from this year's Golden Week. On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushan As China's National ... false 1464 full As China's National Day holiday wraps up, we look back at a week defined by massive movement, packed tourist spots, and a surge in consumer spending. Join us for a recap of the biggest stories from this year's Golden Week. On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushan Thu, 09 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2760808 In Zheng'an County, Guizhou province, a thriving guitar manufacturing industry has emerged, supplying major international brands and providing thousands of jobs. In this episode, we meet the guitar-makers, the musicians, and the dreamers who've transformed an entire region by turning strings into stories. In Zheng'an County, ... false 3296 full In Zheng'an County, Guizhou province, a thriving guitar manufacturing industry has emerged, supplying major international brands and providing thousands of jobs. In this episode, we meet the guitar-makers, the musicians, and the dreamers who've transformed an entire region by turning strings into stories. Wed, 08 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2760486 Guizhou Province has long been known for its rugged landscapes and ethnic diversity, but today, it's making headlines for something else: the red hot chili peppers. Yes, Round Table is still in Guizhou province, and in this episode, we take you to see a city's fiery pepper boom! Guizhou Province has... false 3169 full Guizhou Province has long been known for its rugged landscapes and ethnic diversity, but today, it's making headlines for something else: the red hot chili peppers. Yes, Round Table is still in Guizhou province, and in this episode, we take you to see a city's fiery pepper boom! Tue, 07 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2760483 What do spicy peppers, handmade guitars, and green cities have in common? Guizhou. In our new on-the-ground mini-series ChinaHorizons, we invite you to join our trip to Guizhou province. For the first stop, we record our podcast in a traditional Miao people's village cluster to appreciate diversified cultures, intangible cultural heritage items and delicious local cuisines. What do spicy pepper... false 3227 full What do spicy peppers, handmade guitars, and green cities have in common? Guizhou. In our new on-the-ground mini-series ChinaHorizons, we invite you to join our trip to Guizhou province. For the first stop, we record our podcast in a traditional Miao people's village cluster to appreciate diversified cultures, intangible cultural heritage items and delicious local cuisines. Mon, 06 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2760480 With the digital preservation of the Potala Palace, and the growing popularity of Xizang style carpets, incense and handmade paper among young consumers, Xizang has found ways to keep its timeless culture up-to-date and trendy. In this episode, we explore the part of Xizang where heritage meets creativity. With the digital pre... false 3109 full With the digital preservation of the Potala Palace, and the growing popularity of Xizang style carpets, incense and handmade paper among young consumers, Xizang has found ways to keep its timeless culture up-to-date and trendy. In this episode, we explore the part of Xizang where heritage meets creativity. Sun, 05 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2760493 From smart ranching to vegetable greenhouses, from cold-chain logistics to cross-border trade… We take a look at Xizang's industrial transformation and see how the plateau is leaping into a new era of development. From smart ranching ... false 2868 full From smart ranching to vegetable greenhouses, from cold-chain logistics to cross-border trade… We take a look at Xizang's industrial transformation and see how the plateau is leaping into a new era of development. Sat, 04 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2760490 In Xinjiang, ancient traditions are not frozen in time but are dynamically evolving. This episode explores how daily life in the millennia-old Kashi Ancient City, and across all of Xinjiang, is being revitalized with modern comforts while carefully preserving its unique soul. From the enduring epic of Manas to the innovative fusion of Guangdong's Yingge dance with Uygur melodies, it's clear how dedicated cultural preservation, youthful creativity, and open exchanges are composing a vibrant new chapter for the region's diverse cultural mosaic. In Xinjiang, ancient... false 3276 full In Xinjiang, ancient traditions are not frozen in time but are dynamically evolving. This episode explores how daily life in the millennia-old Kashi Ancient City, and across all of Xinjiang, is being revitalized with modern comforts while carefully preserving its unique soul. From the enduring epic of Manas to the innovative fusion of Guangdong's Yingge dance with Uygur melodies, it's clear how dedicated cultural preservation, youthful creativity, and open exchanges are composing a vibrant new chapter for the region's diverse cultural mosaic. Fri, 03 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2760477 The story of Xinjiang's industry is no longer just about sweet grapes and cotton fields. This episode travels from high tech cotton farms where AI and drones optimize harvests to the vast desert aquafarms that raise tasty seafood. We uncover how innovation is driving growth, from the massive wind farms of Hami supplying green energy to the nation, to the data centers of Karamay leveraging liquid cooling tech. It is a journey into how Xinjiang is diversifying its economy and harnessing cutting edge technology to build a robust and modern industrial ecosystem. The story of Xinjian... false 3060 full The story of Xinjiang's industry is no longer just about sweet grapes and cotton fields. This episode travels from high tech cotton farms where AI and drones optimize harvests to the vast desert aquafarms that raise tasty seafood. We uncover how innovation is driving growth, from the massive wind farms of Hami supplying green energy to the nation, to the data centers of Karamay leveraging liquid cooling tech. It is a journey into how Xinjiang is diversifying its economy and harnessing cutting edge technology to build a robust and modern industrial ecosystem. Thu, 02 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2760474 From the bustling lanes of the world's largest bazaar in Urumqi to the state-of-the-art logistics hubs at its 17 land ports, Xinjiang is rapidly transforming its geographical advantages into robust economic strength. As China's vital gateway to the west, the region now hosts a comprehensive opening-up network, highlighted by the groundbreaking Pilot Free Trade Zone. This dynamic integration of cross-border trade, an expansive web of China-Europe freight trains, and vibrant cultural exchanges is weaving Xinjiang into the very fabric of the Belt and Road Initiative, cementing its role as a pivotal hub for continental connectivity. From the bustling la... false 3295 full From the bustling lanes of the world's largest bazaar in Urumqi to the state-of-the-art logistics hubs at its 17 land ports, Xinjiang is rapidly transforming its geographical advantages into robust economic strength. As China's vital gateway to the west, the region now hosts a comprehensive opening-up network, highlighted by the groundbreaking Pilot Free Trade Zone. This dynamic integration of cross-border trade, an expansive web of China-Europe freight trains, and vibrant cultural exchanges is weaving Xinjiang into the very fabric of the Belt and Road Initiative, cementing its role as a pivotal hub for continental connectivity. Wed, 01 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2760471 A new internet craze promises a life reset in 50 days with seven straightforward rules. Do you have what it takes to follow them?/ Little white lies are completely harmless...or are they (13:29)? On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun A new internet craze... false 1366 full A new internet craze promises a life reset in 50 days with seven straightforward rules. Do you have what it takes to follow them?/ Little white lies are completely harmless...or are they (13:29)? On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Tue, 30 Sep 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2760547 China's eight day holiday has sent millions abroad in pursuit of adventure. Yet behind the thrill of new landscapes lies a subtle challenge. For many travelers, the true journey unfolds not in the miles covered, but in the search for words across language barriers. These moments, balanced between awkward silence and the spark of true connection, will ultimately define how these holiday stories are remembered. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun China's eight day ho... false 1716 full China's eight day holiday has sent millions abroad in pursuit of adventure. Yet behind the thrill of new landscapes lies a subtle challenge. For many travelers, the true journey unfolds not in the miles covered, but in the search for words across language barriers. These moments, balanced between awkward silence and the spark of true connection, will ultimately define how these holiday stories are remembered. On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Tue, 30 Sep 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2760544 We have never been more connected and yet never more alone. Our cities rise as monuments of gathering, while true and meaningful conversation slips further from our grasp. Close relationships may remain the non-negotiable key to a happy life, or perhaps we have long underestimated the quiet and empowering potential of solitude. / Motivational Monday (18:05)! On the show: Steve Hatherly, Fei Fei & Yushan We have never been m... false 1359 full We have never been more connected and yet never more alone. Our cities rise as monuments of gathering, while true and meaningful conversation slips further from our grasp. Close relationships may remain the non-negotiable key to a happy life, or perhaps we have long underestimated the quiet and empowering potential of solitude. / Motivational Monday (18:05)! On the show: Steve Hatherly, Fei Fei & Yushan Mon, 29 Sep 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2760465 The end of toll collection on Chengdu's expressways and others across China will reduce costs for daily commuters and the logistics industry. But will it create a financial challenge for future maintenance? While travelers will benefit from the savings, a key concern is whether the increased traffic will lead to congestion that diminishes the comfort and efficiency of the roads for everyone. On the show: Steve Hatherly, Fei Fei & Yushan The end of toll coll... false 1736 full The end of toll collection on Chengdu's expressways and others across China will reduce costs for daily commuters and the logistics industry. But will it create a financial challenge for future maintenance? While travelers will benefit from the savings, a key concern is whether the increased traffic will lead to congestion that diminishes the comfort and efficiency of the roads for everyone. On the show: Steve Hatherly, Fei Fei & Yushan Mon, 29 Sep 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2760462 China is currently experiencing a rapid surge in the popularity of rock climbing, a trend propelled by its debut as an Olympic sport, an expanding middle class with a growing emphasis on health and wellness, and widespread sharing on social media platforms. As participation diversifies across age and demographic groups, the sport's future trajectory is clearly oriented toward the formal development of competitive circuits and its deeper integration into domestic tourism and adventure travel initiatives. / Round Table's Happy Place (15:16)! On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushun China is currently e... false 1246 full China is currently experiencing a rapid surge in the popularity of rock climbing, a trend propelled by its debut as an Olympic sport, an expanding middle class with a growing emphasis on health and wellness, and widespread sharing on social media platforms. As participation diversifies across age and demographic groups, the sport's future trajectory is clearly oriented toward the formal development of competitive circuits and its deeper integration into domestic tourism and adventure travel initiatives. / Round Table's Happy Place (15:16)! On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushun Fri, 26 Sep 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2760387 While childhood obesity is often perceived as an urban problem, this is no longer the case in China. Recent data shows a rapid increase in overweight and obesity rates among school-age children, with researchers predicting that rural rates will surpass urban ones by 2025-2030. What is driving this accelerated rise in rural childhood obesity? On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushun While childhood obes... false 1848 full While childhood obesity is often perceived as an urban problem, this is no longer the case in China. Recent data shows a rapid increase in overweight and obesity rates among school-age children, with researchers predicting that rural rates will surpass urban ones by 2025-2030. What is driving this accelerated rise in rural childhood obesity? On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushun Fri, 26 Sep 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2760384 Heart to Heart - please send your audio questions to roundtablepodcast@qq.com. / VIP perks used to be simple. Now, China's biggest platforms are bundling everything you do online and offline into one super membership. But when perks become so vast and the math so tricky, do they simplify life or just make us spend more by default (17:38)? On the show: Heyang, Steve & Yushan Heart to Heart - ple... false 1671 full Heart to Heart - please send your audio questions to roundtablepodcast@qq.com. / VIP perks used to be simple. Now, China's biggest platforms are bundling everything you do online and offline into one super membership. But when perks become so vast and the math so tricky, do they simplify life or just make us spend more by default (17:38)? On the show: Heyang, Steve & Yushan Thu, 25 Sep 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2760337 The 12th Silk Road International Film Festival is taking place in Fuzhou, Fujian Province, from September 22nd to 26th. Heyang speaks with Tang Kelan, who is not only active in Macau SAR youth affairs but also a passionate filmmaker, having directed and starred in the short film 'Granny' (00:49). The conversation continues with director Song Zhuofei, whose upcoming film '最好的朋友' (Best Friends) offers a gentle exploration of the life of an autistic youth. This focus reflects a broader trend in Chinese cinema toward storytelling that is socially conscious, empathetic, and deeply human (15:32). The 12th Silk Road I... false 1512 full The 12th Silk Road International Film Festival is taking place in Fuzhou, Fujian Province, from September 22nd to 26th. Heyang speaks with Tang Kelan, who is not only active in Macau SAR youth affairs but also a passionate filmmaker, having directed and starred in the short film 'Granny' (00:49). The conversation continues with director Song Zhuofei, whose upcoming film '最好的朋友' (Best Friends) offers a gentle exploration of the life of an autistic youth. This focus reflects a broader trend in Chinese cinema toward storytelling that is socially conscious, empathetic, and deeply human (15:32). Thu, 25 Sep 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2760334 In Xinjiang, ancient traditions are not frozen in time but are dynamically evolving. This episode explores how daily life in the millennia-old Kashi Ancient City, and across all of Xinjiang, is being revitalized with modern comforts while carefully preserving its unique soul. From the enduring epic of Manas to the innovative fusion of Guangdong's Yingge dance with Uygur melodies, it's clear how dedicated cultural preservation, youthful creativity, and open exchanges are composing a vibrant new chapter for the region's diverse cultural mosaic. In Xinjiang, ancient... false 3276 full In Xinjiang, ancient traditions are not frozen in time but are dynamically evolving. This episode explores how daily life in the millennia-old Kashi Ancient City, and across all of Xinjiang, is being revitalized with modern comforts while carefully preserving its unique soul. From the enduring epic of Manas to the innovative fusion of Guangdong's Yingge dance with Uygur melodies, it's clear how dedicated cultural preservation, youthful creativity, and open exchanges are composing a vibrant new chapter for the region's diverse cultural mosaic. Wed, 24 Sep 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2760294 The story of Xinjiang's industry is no longer just about sweet grapes and cotton fields. This episode travels from high tech cotton farms where AI and drones optimize harvests to the vast desert aquafarms that raise tasty seafood. We uncover how innovation is driving growth, from the massive wind farms of Hami supplying green energy to the nation, to the data centers of Karamay leveraging liquid cooling tech. It is a journey into how Xinjiang is diversifying its economy and harnessing cutting edge technology to build a robust and modern industrial ecosystem. The story of Xinjian... false 3060 full The story of Xinjiang's industry is no longer just about sweet grapes and cotton fields. This episode travels from high tech cotton farms where AI and drones optimize harvests to the vast desert aquafarms that raise tasty seafood. We uncover how innovation is driving growth, from the massive wind farms of Hami supplying green energy to the nation, to the data centers of Karamay leveraging liquid cooling tech. It is a journey into how Xinjiang is diversifying its economy and harnessing cutting edge technology to build a robust and modern industrial ecosystem. Tue, 23 Sep 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2760261 From the bustling lanes of the world's largest bazaar in Urumqi to the humming logistics hubs at the region's 19 ports, Xinjiang is transforming its geographical advantage into economic strength. As China's gateway to the west, it now hosts a major network for opening-up, including the pioneering Pilot Free Trade Zone. This episode explores how cross-border trade, a web of China-Europe freight trains, and cultural exchanges are weaving Xinjiang into the very heart of the Belt and Road Initiative, making it a pivotal hub for continental connectivity. On the show: Niu Honglin, Laiming & Yushan. From the bustling la... false 3294 full From the bustling lanes of the world's largest bazaar in Urumqi to the humming logistics hubs at the region's 19 ports, Xinjiang is transforming its geographical advantage into economic strength. As China's gateway to the west, it now hosts a major network for opening-up, including the pioneering Pilot Free Trade Zone. This episode explores how cross-border trade, a web of China-Europe freight trains, and cultural exchanges are weaving Xinjiang into the very heart of the Belt and Road Initiative, making it a pivotal hub for continental connectivity. On the show: Niu Honglin, Laiming & Yushan. Mon, 22 Sep 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2760224 That dreaded 3 PM energy crash after a carb-heavy lunch is a common experience, but the solution isn't to abandon carbohydrates—it's to choose them wisely. This is where understanding the Glycemic Index (GI), your body's blood sugar speedometer, becomes essential. We move beyond the diet trends to deliver clear science and provide simple, actionable strategies for selecting smarter carbs. By making these mindful swaps, you can fuel your body for sustained energy all day long and finally conquer that afternoon slump. / Round Table's Happy Place (13:40)! On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushan That dreaded 3 PM en... false 1236 full That dreaded 3 PM energy crash after a carb-heavy lunch is a common experience, but the solution isn't to abandon carbohydrates—it's to choose them wisely. This is where understanding the Glycemic Index (GI), your body's blood sugar speedometer, becomes essential. We move beyond the diet trends to deliver clear science and provide simple, actionable strategies for selecting smarter carbs. By making these mindful swaps, you can fuel your body for sustained energy all day long and finally conquer that afternoon slump. / Round Table's Happy Place (13:40)! On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushan Sat, 20 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2760143 China has made a major update to its National Immunization Program (NIP) by including a domestically produced HPV vaccine, offering it free to school-aged girls. This first revision in 17 years is a significant public health advancement, driven by a growing national focus on preventive care and rising cancer awareness. By providing widespread, free access, the policy directly tackles barriers of cost and availability, promising to drastically reduce cervical cancer rates and protect the long-term health of millions of women. On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushan China has made a maj... false 1851 full China has made a major update to its National Immunization Program (NIP) by including a domestically produced HPV vaccine, offering it free to school-aged girls. This first revision in 17 years is a significant public health advancement, driven by a growing national focus on preventive care and rising cancer awareness. By providing widespread, free access, the policy directly tackles barriers of cost and availability, promising to drastically reduce cervical cancer rates and protect the long-term health of millions of women. On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushan Fri, 19 Sep 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2760140 American firms are cutting back on employee training, while Chinese companies are expanding their programs. Despite these opposing approaches, workers in both countries say the training they receive is often irrelevant to their real needs. If this is the case, is anyone actually helping employees build the skills required to advance in their careers? / Heart to Heart - please send your audio questions to roundtablepodcast@qq.com.(17:58) On the show: Heyang, Steve & Li Yunqi American firms are c... false 1294 full American firms are cutting back on employee training, while Chinese companies are expanding their programs. Despite these opposing approaches, workers in both countries say the training they receive is often irrelevant to their real needs. If this is the case, is anyone actually helping employees build the skills required to advance in their careers? / Heart to Heart - please send your audio questions to roundtablepodcast@qq.com.(17:58) On the show: Heyang, Steve & Li Yunqi Fri, 19 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2760107 In an effort to ease the burden on elementary and middle school students, some Chinese schools are embracing more vacations and fewer study aid workbooks. This new approach is designed to give young minds time to rest, recharge, and explore beyond the classroom. The critical question is whether these measures will genuinely reduce stress and enhance learning, or if parents and educators will find new ways to fill that freed time with academic pressures. On the show: Heyang, Steve & Li Yunqi In an effort to ease... false 1764 full In an effort to ease the burden on elementary and middle school students, some Chinese schools are embracing more vacations and fewer study aid workbooks. This new approach is designed to give young minds time to rest, recharge, and explore beyond the classroom. The critical question is whether these measures will genuinely reduce stress and enhance learning, or if parents and educators will find new ways to fill that freed time with academic pressures. On the show: Heyang, Steve & Li Yunqi Thu, 18 Sep 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2760104 Our deep bond with pets often conflicts with modern demands like work and travel, leaving a lingering sense of guilt. Tech companies now promise solutions through gadgets that automatically feed, water, and entertain pets in our absence. But we must wonder whether these tools represent true progress in pet welfare or merely a way to profit from our emotional vulnerability. / Your milk tea comes with a cliffhanger on the receipt (14:30). On the show: Heyang, Steve & Yushun Our deep bond with p... false 1165 full Our deep bond with pets often conflicts with modern demands like work and travel, leaving a lingering sense of guilt. Tech companies now promise solutions through gadgets that automatically feed, water, and entertain pets in our absence. But we must wonder whether these tools represent true progress in pet welfare or merely a way to profit from our emotional vulnerability. / Your milk tea comes with a cliffhanger on the receipt (14:30). On the show: Heyang, Steve & Yushun Thu, 18 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2760070 Buy now, pay later plans break purchases into smaller installments, a method that has surged in global popularity for its apparent convenience. This new approach to spending walks the line between a practical budgeting tool and a dangerously sugarcoated habit, offering short-term ease with potential long-term financial consequences. On the show: Heyang, Steve & Yushun Buy now, pay later p... false 1915 full Buy now, pay later plans break purchases into smaller installments, a method that has surged in global popularity for its apparent convenience. This new approach to spending walks the line between a practical budgeting tool and a dangerously sugarcoated habit, offering short-term ease with potential long-term financial consequences. On the show: Heyang, Steve & Yushun Wed, 17 Sep 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2760067 The traditional salon experience often includes a shampoo, blow dry, and small talk. A new wave of barbershops strips this down to the basics. The "10 yuan haircut" offers a swift, efficient trim for one low price. Does this surging popularity among young urbanites indicate that modern consumers are now prioritizing pure efficiency and affordability above everything else? / Motivational Monday (16:33)! On the show: Heyang, Steve & Yushun The traditional salo... false 1166 full The traditional salon experience often includes a shampoo, blow dry, and small talk. A new wave of barbershops strips this down to the basics. The "10 yuan haircut" offers a swift, efficient trim for one low price. Does this surging popularity among young urbanites indicate that modern consumers are now prioritizing pure efficiency and affordability above everything else? / Motivational Monday (16:33)! On the show: Heyang, Steve & Yushun Tue, 16 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2760005 The eternal hunt for an available charging spot is a major headache for any electric vehicle owner, often draining time and patience. But what if your EV could get a charge with the same effortless convenience as a food delivery order? Enter mobile charging vans: the innovative solution that brings the power directly to you. They simply pull up, plug in, and replenish your battery while you go about your day. On the show: Heyang, Steve & Yushun The eternal hunt for... false 1915 full The eternal hunt for an available charging spot is a major headache for any electric vehicle owner, often draining time and patience. But what if your EV could get a charge with the same effortless convenience as a food delivery order? Enter mobile charging vans: the innovative solution that brings the power directly to you. They simply pull up, plug in, and replenish your battery while you go about your day. On the show: Heyang, Steve & Yushun Mon, 15 Sep 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2760002 Occupying the essential center of the sandwich generation means being the first call for homework help and the immediate update after a doctor's visit. It is a role of constant motion, where profound love continuously meets relentless logistics, a testament to those tirelessly holding everything together even during the days when it feels like barely holding on. / Round Table's Happy Place (17:13)! On the show: Steve, Yushun & Yunqi Occupying the essent... false 1285 full Occupying the essential center of the sandwich generation means being the first call for homework help and the immediate update after a doctor's visit. It is a role of constant motion, where profound love continuously meets relentless logistics, a testament to those tirelessly holding everything together even during the days when it feels like barely holding on. / Round Table's Happy Place (17:13)! On the show: Steve, Yushun & Yunqi Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2759916 The Golden Panda Awards honor the highest achievements in film and television, yet their influence reaches far beyond the ceremony. These stories act as powerful economic engines and cultural passports, vividly showcasing China's landscapes and heritage on a global stage. This cinematic spotlight directly fuels tourism, drawing both domestic and international visitors to explore in person the captivating scenes they first witnessed on screen. On the show: Steve, Yushun & Yunqi The Golden Panda Awa... false 1804 full The Golden Panda Awards honor the highest achievements in film and television, yet their influence reaches far beyond the ceremony. These stories act as powerful economic engines and cultural passports, vividly showcasing China's landscapes and heritage on a global stage. This cinematic spotlight directly fuels tourism, drawing both domestic and international visitors to explore in person the captivating scenes they first witnessed on screen. On the show: Steve, Yushun & Yunqi Fri, 12 Sep 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2759913 Say goodbye to dull textbooks. Imagine learning science by scrolling through engaging TikTok shorts, exploring AR-powered interactive exhibitions, or chatting directly with scientists in live online sessions. This is the vision of China's first National Science Popularization Month, transforming science into an experience as dynamic and captivating as your favorite app. / Stub it out! Social media influencers leading the anti-smoking charge (15:47)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Fei Fei. Say goodbye to dull ... false 1314 full Say goodbye to dull textbooks. Imagine learning science by scrolling through engaging TikTok shorts, exploring AR-powered interactive exhibitions, or chatting directly with scientists in live online sessions. This is the vision of China's first National Science Popularization Month, transforming science into an experience as dynamic and captivating as your favorite app. / Stub it out! Social media influencers leading the anti-smoking charge (15:47)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Fei Fei. Fri, 12 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2759873 Think of the most unforgettable moments in film: epic battles, dazzling visuals, and dreamlike worlds. At the heart of them all is technology, now supercharged by AI, which shapes what we see and feel on screen. Chinese filmmakers are pioneering these tools in innovative ways, and the Golden Panda Awards celebrate this remarkable technological evolution in global cinema. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Fei Fei. Think of the most un... false 1794 full Think of the most unforgettable moments in film: epic battles, dazzling visuals, and dreamlike worlds. At the heart of them all is technology, now supercharged by AI, which shapes what we see and feel on screen. Chinese filmmakers are pioneering these tools in innovative ways, and the Golden Panda Awards celebrate this remarkable technological evolution in global cinema. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Fei Fei. Thu, 11 Sep 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2759870 More than a date on the calendar, Teachers' Day is an opportunity to honor those who have taught, guided, and inspired us. While educators this year are receiving well-deserved benefits and recognition, it is ultimately their wisdom, patience, and genuine inspiration that leave a lasting impact. On the show: Heyang, Steve & Yushun More than a date on ... false 1178 full More than a date on the calendar, Teachers' Day is an opportunity to honor those who have taught, guided, and inspired us. While educators this year are receiving well-deserved benefits and recognition, it is ultimately their wisdom, patience, and genuine inspiration that leave a lasting impact. On the show: Heyang, Steve & Yushun Wed, 10 Sep 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2759837 Chengdu, the panda capital of the world, has cemented its status as a global hub for film and television, a fact highlighted by the Golden Panda Awards gathering entries from over 120 countries. We also have a fascinating interview with a professor of film, where he walks us through a captivating journey of 120 years of Chinese cinema history that you will not want to miss. On the show: Heyang, Steve & Yushun Chengdu, the panda c... false 1900 full Chengdu, the panda capital of the world, has cemented its status as a global hub for film and television, a fact highlighted by the Golden Panda Awards gathering entries from over 120 countries. We also have a fascinating interview with a professor of film, where he walks us through a captivating journey of 120 years of Chinese cinema history that you will not want to miss. On the show: Heyang, Steve & Yushun Wed, 10 Sep 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2759834 Learning does not have to cost anything. Through skill exchange, people share their knowledge and gain new abilities in return, like trading yoga for poetry or photography for dance. This process is about more than skills; it is about building connection, trust, and discovery. This model of mutual learning truly satisfies our deep need to grow. / Motivational Monday (15:23). On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan. Learning does not ha... false 1315 full Learning does not have to cost anything. Through skill exchange, people share their knowledge and gain new abilities in return, like trading yoga for poetry or photography for dance. This process is about more than skills; it is about building connection, trust, and discovery. This model of mutual learning truly satisfies our deep need to grow. / Motivational Monday (15:23). On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan. Tue, 09 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2759767 In China, sports have evolved from traditional recreation into a dynamic economic catalyst. The "sports+" model, which integrates athletic participation with related spending on gear, entertainment, tourism, and technology, creates powerful cross-sector synergies. By stimulating consumer demand and fostering new business ecosystems, this expanding consumption is poised to give the domestic economy a significant and sustained boost. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan. In China, sports hav... false 1808 full In China, sports have evolved from traditional recreation into a dynamic economic catalyst. The "sports+" model, which integrates athletic participation with related spending on gear, entertainment, tourism, and technology, creates powerful cross-sector synergies. By stimulating consumer demand and fostering new business ecosystems, this expanding consumption is poised to give the domestic economy a significant and sustained boost. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan. Mon, 08 Sep 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2759764 Ten seconds. One choice. Your perfect match… or total chaos? ReelShort brings the speed of micro-drama to reality TV with Love Bombing. This isn't just a new show… it's an experiment. Will you bet on love at first sight? / Round Table's Happy Place (16:30)! On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushan Ten seconds. One cho... false 1307 full Ten seconds. One choice. Your perfect match… or total chaos? ReelShort brings the speed of micro-drama to reality TV with Love Bombing. This isn't just a new show… it's an experiment. Will you bet on love at first sight? / Round Table's Happy Place (16:30)! On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushan Sat, 06 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2759688 China's retail scene is electrified, with over 2,200 debut stores launching in just the first six months of 2025. So what's driving this brick-and-mortar boom? Hint: it's bigger than mere expansion. We unpack why brands are going all-in on flagship launches, how these stores energize local economies, and which players are positioned to win big. On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushan China's retail scene... false 1779 full China's retail scene is electrified, with over 2,200 debut stores launching in just the first six months of 2025. So what's driving this brick-and-mortar boom? Hint: it's bigger than mere expansion. We unpack why brands are going all-in on flagship launches, how these stores energize local economies, and which players are positioned to win big. On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushan Fri, 05 Sep 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2759685 "Blind box social" arranges meetings between complete strangers, offering a spontaneous alternative to algorithm-driven connections. This trend promises genuine human interaction beyond the screen, though it makes one question if it builds true community or simply gamifies the concept of friendship. / Would you enjoy AI podcasts (14:43)? On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushun "Blind box social" a... false 1461 full "Blind box social" arranges meetings between complete strangers, offering a spontaneous alternative to algorithm-driven connections. This trend promises genuine human interaction beyond the screen, though it makes one question if it builds true community or simply gamifies the concept of friendship. / Would you enjoy AI podcasts (14:43)? On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushun Fri, 05 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2759640 A new benchmark for corporate success has arrived. China's latest ranking of its top private companies is out, and the bar for entry is now a staggering 27 billion yuan ($3.8 billion USD) in revenue. More than just a list, it's a powerful story of resilience and ambition on a massive scale. On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushun A new benchmark for ... false 1607 full A new benchmark for corporate success has arrived. China's latest ranking of its top private companies is out, and the bar for entry is now a staggering 27 billion yuan ($3.8 billion USD) in revenue. More than just a list, it's a powerful story of resilience and ambition on a massive scale. On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushun Thu, 04 Sep 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2759637 In today's day and age, we can just order anything. We've ordered takeout food, groceries, even manicures at home — so why not order a sports class? That's exactly what many families are doing. Whether it's a jump rope session in the park, or a one-on-one basketball lesson in the neighborhood square, "sports delivery" is making workouts as easy to book as dinner. But convenience isn't the whole story; it's also reshaping how kids, parents, and coaches see the role of sports in daily life. Would you order a sports session customized to your needs? Let us know the answer after listening to today's discussion! / Should hotel room booking charge deposit (14:17)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan In today's day and a... false 1447 full In today's day and age, we can just order anything. We've ordered takeout food, groceries, even manicures at home — so why not order a sports class? That's exactly what many families are doing. Whether it's a jump rope session in the park, or a one-on-one basketball lesson in the neighborhood square, "sports delivery" is making workouts as easy to book as dinner. But convenience isn't the whole story; it's also reshaping how kids, parents, and coaches see the role of sports in daily life. Would you order a sports session customized to your needs? Let us know the answer after listening to today's discussion! / Should hotel room booking charge deposit (14:17)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Thu, 04 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2759577 In recent years, live performances have transformed from simple entertainment into powerful engines of urban vitality. Concerts, festivals, and stage plays don't just fill seats; they ripple into dining tables, hotel rooms, shopping bags, and social media feeds. What was once a fun night out has become an ecosystem — a phenomenon showing how culture, emotion, and economy intertwine in today's consumer landscape. Today, Round table takes you to check out the before, during and after fun of live performances here in China. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan In recent years, liv... false 1719 full In recent years, live performances have transformed from simple entertainment into powerful engines of urban vitality. Concerts, festivals, and stage plays don't just fill seats; they ripple into dining tables, hotel rooms, shopping bags, and social media feeds. What was once a fun night out has become an ecosystem — a phenomenon showing how culture, emotion, and economy intertwine in today's consumer landscape. Today, Round table takes you to check out the before, during and after fun of live performances here in China. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan Wed, 03 Sep 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2759574 In China, a customer posted on social media that a barbecue restaurant had poor food quality and alleged that it caused an acute case of gastroenteritis. The restaurant owner filed a lawsuit, and the court ruled in the restaurant's favor. This case raises important questions about the legal boundaries for posting critical online reviews, and how platforms and regulations should oversee such user feedback. / Can twistable tiny toys fidget your way to focus (14:13)? On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushan In China, a customer... false 1281 full In China, a customer posted on social media that a barbecue restaurant had poor food quality and alleged that it caused an acute case of gastroenteritis. The restaurant owner filed a lawsuit, and the court ruled in the restaurant's favor. This case raises important questions about the legal boundaries for posting critical online reviews, and how platforms and regulations should oversee such user feedback. / Can twistable tiny toys fidget your way to focus (14:13)? On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushan Wed, 03 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2759571 This summer, Chinese animation films and series have surged in popularity, with several titles achieving blockbuster success at the box office. Online video platforms have also joined the fray, offering a rich variety of animated content and engaging in an intense competition for viewership dominance. What have been the most notable successes, and what key factors are driving their impressive performance? On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushan This summer, Chinese... false 1800 full This summer, Chinese animation films and series have surged in popularity, with several titles achieving blockbuster success at the box office. Online video platforms have also joined the fray, offering a rich variety of animated content and engaging in an intense competition for viewership dominance. What have been the most notable successes, and what key factors are driving their impressive performance? On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushan Tue, 02 Sep 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2759568 School's back, and summer is out. It is time to swap lazy days for new backpacks, sharp uniforms, and well stocked supplies. But this is more than a shopping trip. It is the Great September Shift. So how do you transition from beach mode to brain mode? How do you go from late nights to early alarms? Join us as we explore mindset resets, routine upgrades, and how to start the year with total confidence. / Motivational Monday (17:11)! On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushun School's back, and s... false 1343 full School's back, and summer is out. It is time to swap lazy days for new backpacks, sharp uniforms, and well stocked supplies. But this is more than a shopping trip. It is the Great September Shift. So how do you transition from beach mode to brain mode? How do you go from late nights to early alarms? Join us as we explore mindset resets, routine upgrades, and how to start the year with total confidence. / Motivational Monday (17:11)! On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushun Tue, 02 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2759533 Electric bikes are fast, convenient, and everywhere in China. But behind this convenience lurk hidden risks: fires, accidents, and illegal modifications. On September 1st, 2025, a transformative national safety standard takes effect. What exactly does this new regulation entail, and what will it reveal about the future of urban safety? Most importantly, what difference will it make for the millions who rely on their e-bikes every day? On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushun Electric bikes are f... false 1743 full Electric bikes are fast, convenient, and everywhere in China. But behind this convenience lurk hidden risks: fires, accidents, and illegal modifications. On September 1st, 2025, a transformative national safety standard takes effect. What exactly does this new regulation entail, and what will it reveal about the future of urban safety? Most importantly, what difference will it make for the millions who rely on their e-bikes every day? On the show: Steve, Niu Honglin & Yushun Mon, 01 Sep 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2759530 The Swiss watch once held an exclusive monopoly on prestige. That era has ended. Now, China's consumers are fueling a profound transformation, embracing cutting edge technology and bold local brands that rival the timeless classics. "Made in China" is being completely redefined. We discuss the new symbols of status and what they reveal about the future of luxury. / Round Table's Happy Place (17:06)! On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun The Swiss watch once... false 1338 full The Swiss watch once held an exclusive monopoly on prestige. That era has ended. Now, China's consumers are fueling a profound transformation, embracing cutting edge technology and bold local brands that rival the timeless classics. "Made in China" is being completely redefined. We discuss the new symbols of status and what they reveal about the future of luxury. / Round Table's Happy Place (17:06)! On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Sat, 30 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2759450 Chinese Valentine's Day is here, but Cupid's arrow is striking differently for the youth in China's buzzing metropolises. A fresh report reveals they are completely rewriting the recipe for romance, crafting a new vision of love and partnership for the modern era. Get ready for a fascinating cultural shake-up! On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Chinese Valentine's ... false 1767 full Chinese Valentine's Day is here, but Cupid's arrow is striking differently for the youth in China's buzzing metropolises. A fresh report reveals they are completely rewriting the recipe for romance, crafting a new vision of love and partnership for the modern era. Get ready for a fascinating cultural shake-up! On the show: Steve, Yushan & Yushun Fri, 29 Aug 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2759447 Travel photography first became a dream service for newlyweds almost a decade ago. Over time, it's also grown popular with families with kids and individuals who want portraits taken in stunning, real-world locations. But behind the glossy images lie hidden fees, logistical chaos, and fierce competition. We explore the industry's rise and the turbulence facing industry giants. / Dad nursery rooms in shopping malls (11:25). On the show: Heyang, Steve & Yushan Travel photography f... false 1028 full Travel photography first became a dream service for newlyweds almost a decade ago. Over time, it's also grown popular with families with kids and individuals who want portraits taken in stunning, real-world locations. But behind the glossy images lie hidden fees, logistical chaos, and fierce competition. We explore the industry's rise and the turbulence facing industry giants. / Dad nursery rooms in shopping malls (11:25). On the show: Heyang, Steve & Yushan Fri, 29 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2759414 The global gaming industry, now larger than film and music combined, generates over $184 billion. Women make up nearly half of all gamers worldwide, profoundly shaping game design, esports, and culture. We explore the shift and its future impact. On the show: Heyang, Steve & Yushan The global gaming in... false 2033 full The global gaming industry, now larger than film and music combined, generates over $184 billion. Women make up nearly half of all gamers worldwide, profoundly shaping game design, esports, and culture. We explore the shift and its future impact. On the show: Heyang, Steve & Yushan Thu, 28 Aug 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2759411 Western food has often been branded bland, but things are changing quickly. As America's growing obsession with spicy food embraces ghost pepper snacks and habanero laced cocktails, how does this trend compare to the refined, centuries-old fire of Chinese Sichuan and Hunan cuisines? / Heart to Heart - please send your audio questions to roundtablepodcast@qq.com (15:33). On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Yushun Western food has oft... false 1281 full Western food has often been branded bland, but things are changing quickly. As America's growing obsession with spicy food embraces ghost pepper snacks and habanero laced cocktails, how does this trend compare to the refined, centuries-old fire of Chinese Sichuan and Hunan cuisines? / Heart to Heart - please send your audio questions to roundtablepodcast@qq.com (15:33). On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Yushun Thu, 28 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2759377 We seek solace in our screens, only to feel more drained. Why do our escapes amplify the loneliness they're meant to soothe? Is it a failure of discipline, or a cry from something within we've been avoiding? On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Yushun We seek solace in ou... false 1806 full We seek solace in our screens, only to feel more drained. Why do our escapes amplify the loneliness they're meant to soothe? Is it a failure of discipline, or a cry from something within we've been avoiding? On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Yushun Wed, 27 Aug 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2759374 Peking University has ended GPA rankings for undergraduates. This is a bold move in a system where grades heavily influence scholarships, graduate school admissions, and sometimes even job opportunities. Will this shift the focus from chasing scores to pursuing knowledge, or will competition simply take a new form? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan Peking University ha... false 1219 full Peking University has ended GPA rankings for undergraduates. This is a bold move in a system where grades heavily influence scholarships, graduate school admissions, and sometimes even job opportunities. Will this shift the focus from chasing scores to pursuing knowledge, or will competition simply take a new form? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan Wed, 27 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2759348 Have you ever daydreamed about a completely different career? In today's fast-evolving job market, switching industries is increasingly common. From new graduates discovering their majors are misaligned with demand, to experienced professionals seeking greater purpose or growth, more people are venturing into new fields. The pivotal question remains: how do you determine if such a leap is worthwhile, and what key factors should you weigh before making the switch? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan Have you ever daydre... false 1829 full Have you ever daydreamed about a completely different career? In today's fast-evolving job market, switching industries is increasingly common. From new graduates discovering their majors are misaligned with demand, to experienced professionals seeking greater purpose or growth, more people are venturing into new fields. The pivotal question remains: how do you determine if such a leap is worthwhile, and what key factors should you weigh before making the switch? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan Tue, 26 Aug 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2759345 Instant noodles, once the default travel snack in China, are now disappearing from some high-speed rail stations, deemed too odorous for shared spaces. This shift is part of a larger conflict playing out on public transport, where personal choices like noisy kids or dusty work clothes are forcing a public debate over whose comfort should take priority. / Motivational Monday (24:41)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun Instant noodles, onc... false 1654 full Instant noodles, once the default travel snack in China, are now disappearing from some high-speed rail stations, deemed too odorous for shared spaces. This shift is part of a larger conflict playing out on public transport, where personal choices like noisy kids or dusty work clothes are forcing a public debate over whose comfort should take priority. / Motivational Monday (24:41)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun Tue, 26 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2759315 Chinese tool apps, from outfit-swap filters to calorie trackers, have surged to become top downloads worldwide. Their success stretches from the competitive markets of the U.S. and U.K. to the booming digital landscapes of Southeast Asia and Latin America. This global reach, however, presents their greatest challenge: can they master the vastly different tastes and cultural nuances of users from Los Angeles to Jakarta to maintain their dominance? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun Chinese tool apps, f... false 1437 full Chinese tool apps, from outfit-swap filters to calorie trackers, have surged to become top downloads worldwide. Their success stretches from the competitive markets of the U.S. and U.K. to the booming digital landscapes of Southeast Asia and Latin America. This global reach, however, presents their greatest challenge: can they master the vastly different tastes and cultural nuances of users from Los Angeles to Jakarta to maintain their dominance? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun Mon, 25 Aug 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2759311 An ancient herbal syrup is captivating the global wellness scene, journeying from the apothecaries of Beijing to the shelves of New York. This surge of curiosity represents a broader movement as Traditional Chinese Medicine (or TCM) steps into the international spotlight. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun. An ancient herbal sy... false 788 full An ancient herbal syrup is captivating the global wellness scene, journeying from the apothecaries of Beijing to the shelves of New York. This surge of curiosity represents a broader movement as Traditional Chinese Medicine (or TCM) steps into the international spotlight. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun. Sat, 23 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2759233 Let's teleport you to Xizang Autonomous Region, otherwise known as Tibet, in southwest China, where the air is thin, the winds are fierce, and the land is unforgiving. Farming there has always been a test of human will. Yet a team of farmers from Shandong Province, in the eastern part of the country, crossed mountains and storms to help local villagers build greenhouses on the plateau. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun. Let's teleport you t... false 2344 full Let's teleport you to Xizang Autonomous Region, otherwise known as Tibet, in southwest China, where the air is thin, the winds are fierce, and the land is unforgiving. Farming there has always been a test of human will. Yet a team of farmers from Shandong Province, in the eastern part of the country, crossed mountains and storms to help local villagers build greenhouses on the plateau. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun. Fri, 22 Aug 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2759236 Before we call our closest friends, many of us now post online. In an age when social media timelines feel like extensions of ourselves, they have become the place where grief lives, spreads, and is witnessed. This digital impulse is influencing how we process pain together. / Social media live location? Why the backlash? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan. Before we call our c... false 1316 full Before we call our closest friends, many of us now post online. In an age when social media timelines feel like extensions of ourselves, they have become the place where grief lives, spreads, and is witnessed. This digital impulse is influencing how we process pain together. / Social media live location? Why the backlash? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan. Fri, 22 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2759193 Chinese university students are beginning internships earlier than ever, with some starting as early as their first year. Many are racing to build their resumes in this highly competitive job market. But does this early start truly provide an advantage, or does it merely create more pressure? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan. Chinese university s... false 1797 full Chinese university students are beginning internships earlier than ever, with some starting as early as their first year. Many are racing to build their resumes in this highly competitive job market. But does this early start truly provide an advantage, or does it merely create more pressure? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan. Thu, 21 Aug 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2759190 A breakthrough in AI dubbing promises to make global cinema more accessible than ever. Yet the very artists who give stories their soul are raising urgent concerns. While audiences worldwide may soon enjoy seamlessly dubbed films, the industry must find a path forward that elevates access without erasing the human talent behind the magic./Round Table's Heart to Heart (15:52). On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Yushun. A breakthrough in AI... false 1593 full A breakthrough in AI dubbing promises to make global cinema more accessible than ever. Yet the very artists who give stories their soul are raising urgent concerns. While audiences worldwide may soon enjoy seamlessly dubbed films, the industry must find a path forward that elevates access without erasing the human talent behind the magic./Round Table's Heart to Heart (15:52). On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Yushun. Thu, 21 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2759158 Cities are breathing new life into their core by investing in culture, not just concrete. This movement is transforming mundane public spaces into vibrant, art-filled hubs that sometimes operate around the clock. These creative environments are fundamentally changing how residents connect with their city and each other, fostering a stronger sense of community. This significant cultural shift promises to make urban living more engaging, accessible, and profoundly interconnected for everyone. On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Yushun. Cities are breathing... false 1543 full Cities are breathing new life into their core by investing in culture, not just concrete. This movement is transforming mundane public spaces into vibrant, art-filled hubs that sometimes operate around the clock. These creative environments are fundamentally changing how residents connect with their city and each other, fostering a stronger sense of community. This significant cultural shift promises to make urban living more engaging, accessible, and profoundly interconnected for everyone. On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Yushun. Wed, 20 Aug 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2759155 If you think bras are merely about shaping the body for others, think again. In recent years, Chinese women have embraced wire-free, easy-fit designs that prioritize comfort, health, and self-expression. This shift reflects a broader movement where underwear is no longer just about aesthetics, but about how it makes women feel in their own skin. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan. If you think bras ar... false 1109 full If you think bras are merely about shaping the body for others, think again. In recent years, Chinese women have embraced wire-free, easy-fit designs that prioritize comfort, health, and self-expression. This shift reflects a broader movement where underwear is no longer just about aesthetics, but about how it makes women feel in their own skin. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan. Wed, 20 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2759103 Summer brings sunshine, laughter and freedom for kids! But water safety can't be ignored as drowning remains a top risk for Chinese children. With simple precautions, we can protect our little ones while they make happy memories. We explore how to keep summer both joyful and safe around water. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan. Summer brings sunshi... false 1972 full Summer brings sunshine, laughter and freedom for kids! But water safety can't be ignored as drowning remains a top risk for Chinese children. With simple precautions, we can protect our little ones while they make happy memories. We explore how to keep summer both joyful and safe around water. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan. Tue, 19 Aug 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2759100 Summer brings screams of joy, laughter echoing through the air, and clouds of cotton candy drifting on the breeze. This is the magic of theme park season. Across China, parks continue evolving their offerings, crafting ever more immersive experiences to draw visitors in. While some focus on cutting edge technology, others lean into nostalgic charm, each carving out their own unique space in the competitive leisure market. / Ok to eat if your food arrives first (10:21)? / Motivational Monday (19:42). On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan. Summer brings scream... false 1376 full Summer brings screams of joy, laughter echoing through the air, and clouds of cotton candy drifting on the breeze. This is the magic of theme park season. Across China, parks continue evolving their offerings, crafting ever more immersive experiences to draw visitors in. While some focus on cutting edge technology, others lean into nostalgic charm, each carving out their own unique space in the competitive leisure market. / Ok to eat if your food arrives first (10:21)? / Motivational Monday (19:42). On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan. Tue, 19 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2759064 This summer, from the cool comfort of air conditioned cinemas to sun soaked outdoor adventures, from immersive eco tourism to thrilling theme park rides, China is alive with endless summer excitement. We uncover the trends redefining this season as a time for joy and new experiences. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan. This summer, from th... false 1743 full This summer, from the cool comfort of air conditioned cinemas to sun soaked outdoor adventures, from immersive eco tourism to thrilling theme park rides, China is alive with endless summer excitement. We uncover the trends redefining this season as a time for joy and new experiences. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan. Mon, 18 Aug 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2759061 Move beyond gimmicks. The real ice cream revolution is happening where value meets quality. As consumers rethink indulgence, the market rewards those who master affordability without compromising taste. Who will thrive when customers want luxury for less? / Round Table's Happy Place (16:51)! On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Yushun Move beyond gimmicks... false 1300 full Move beyond gimmicks. The real ice cream revolution is happening where value meets quality. As consumers rethink indulgence, the market rewards those who master affordability without compromising taste. Who will thrive when customers want luxury for less? / Round Table's Happy Place (16:51)! On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Yushun Sat, 16 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2758984 China has staked its claim in the brain-tech revolution. New national guidelines mandate concrete BCI breakthroughs by 2027—faster neural chips, precision signal decoding, and seamless brain-machine fusion. No vague aspirations here—just measurable milestones. We analyze the real forces propelling China's neurotech leap forward. On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Yushun China has staked its... false 1800 full China has staked its claim in the brain-tech revolution. New national guidelines mandate concrete BCI breakthroughs by 2027—faster neural chips, precision signal decoding, and seamless brain-machine fusion. No vague aspirations here—just measurable milestones. We analyze the real forces propelling China's neurotech leap forward. On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Yushun Fri, 15 Aug 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2758981 The fitness and supplement industries relentlessly push protein, with shakes, bars, and diets promising peak performance. But does this focus align with actual health needs? While protein supports muscle repair and growth, overconsumption may burden the kidneys, crowd out essential nutrients, and lead to unwanted weight gain. We separate fact from marketing fiction to help you determine your ideal protein intake. / Hospital merchandise selling like hot cakes (12:17)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Fei Fei The fitness and supp... false 1085 full The fitness and supplement industries relentlessly push protein, with shakes, bars, and diets promising peak performance. But does this focus align with actual health needs? While protein supports muscle repair and growth, overconsumption may burden the kidneys, crowd out essential nutrients, and lead to unwanted weight gain. We separate fact from marketing fiction to help you determine your ideal protein intake. / Hospital merchandise selling like hot cakes (12:17)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Fei Fei Fri, 15 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2758948 China has a garbage problem, but not the one you might think. Overwhelmed landfills pushed cities to burn trash for energy, yet now some incinerators sit underfed. This unexpected shortage reveals surprising progress in waste reduction and recycling, forcing a rethink of how the nation handles its refuse. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Fei Fei China has a garbage ... false 2011 full China has a garbage problem, but not the one you might think. Overwhelmed landfills pushed cities to burn trash for energy, yet now some incinerators sit underfed. This unexpected shortage reveals surprising progress in waste reduction and recycling, forcing a rethink of how the nation handles its refuse. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Fei Fei Thu, 14 Aug 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2758945 From dog-eared paperbacks to immersive audiobooks and cutting-edge VR experiences, we've never had so many ways to 'read.' But as the formats multiply, so do the questions. Does the medium reshape the meaning? Does how we consume stories fundamentally change how we experience them? Or in the end, does the magic remain the same? / Test papers distributed on train to make noisy kids quiet (16:47). On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Yushun From dog-eared paper... false 1384 full From dog-eared paperbacks to immersive audiobooks and cutting-edge VR experiences, we've never had so many ways to 'read.' But as the formats multiply, so do the questions. Does the medium reshape the meaning? Does how we consume stories fundamentally change how we experience them? Or in the end, does the magic remain the same? / Test papers distributed on train to make noisy kids quiet (16:47). On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Yushun Thu, 14 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2758912 They're tiny, mischievous, and conquering the globe—one mystery box at a time. These Chinese collectibles aren't just toys; they're a full-blown cultural phenomenon, sparking frenzies so intense, stores had to pull them from shelves. What's fueling this obsession? And why can't collectors resist? On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Yushun They're tiny, mischi... false 1719 full They're tiny, mischievous, and conquering the globe—one mystery box at a time. These Chinese collectibles aren't just toys; they're a full-blown cultural phenomenon, sparking frenzies so intense, stores had to pull them from shelves. What's fueling this obsession? And why can't collectors resist? On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Yushun Wed, 13 Aug 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2758909 From synchronized leg sweeps to perfectly timed camera spins, Tuanbo, China's group livestream phenomenon, is taking the digital world by storm. Blending the precision of K-pop choreography with live entertainment, this trend is generating new careers across the industry, from dynamic on-screen performers to behind-the-scenes stylists, lighting technicians, and camera operators. This rapidly expanding format is energizing China's massive livestream economy. / Why is the Gen Z gaze setting off older folks (13:41)? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan From synchronized le... false 1148 full From synchronized leg sweeps to perfectly timed camera spins, Tuanbo, China's group livestream phenomenon, is taking the digital world by storm. Blending the precision of K-pop choreography with live entertainment, this trend is generating new careers across the industry, from dynamic on-screen performers to behind-the-scenes stylists, lighting technicians, and camera operators. This rapidly expanding format is energizing China's massive livestream economy. / Why is the Gen Z gaze setting off older folks (13:41)? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan Wed, 13 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2758872 Robots tighten screws with flawless accuracy, pour coffee at just the right temperature, and crack jokes that feel unexpectedly human. Some even promise companionship that might ease a heavy heart. At the 2025 World Robot Conference in Beijing, these machines have stepped out of laboratory doors and into our homes, workplaces, and private moments. The debate has shifted: their capabilities are proven, but the intimacy we'll grant them remains an open question. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan Robots tighten screw... false 1956 full Robots tighten screws with flawless accuracy, pour coffee at just the right temperature, and crack jokes that feel unexpectedly human. Some even promise companionship that might ease a heavy heart. At the 2025 World Robot Conference in Beijing, these machines have stepped out of laboratory doors and into our homes, workplaces, and private moments. The debate has shifted: their capabilities are proven, but the intimacy we'll grant them remains an open question. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan Tue, 12 Aug 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2758869 Remember the "she-cession" during the pandemic? Now the US risks a "she-exit" as return-to-office mandates collide with a childcare system in crisis. Meanwhile, China's numbers tell their own story. Women's workforce participation dropped after COVID and still hasn't recovered. Two countries, one troubling question. Are we seeing unique challenges, or just the same old barriers dressed up in new ways? / Motivational Monday (20:36)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan Remember the "she-ce... false 1399 full Remember the "she-cession" during the pandemic? Now the US risks a "she-exit" as return-to-office mandates collide with a childcare system in crisis. Meanwhile, China's numbers tell their own story. Women's workforce participation dropped after COVID and still hasn't recovered. Two countries, one troubling question. Are we seeing unique challenges, or just the same old barriers dressed up in new ways? / Motivational Monday (20:36)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan Tue, 12 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2758834 Welcome to the World Games 2025 in Chengdu, capital of Sichuan Province! This vibrant southwest city, famed for its easygoing charm, is now the global stage for thrilling competition, green innovation, and futuristic tech. From groundbreaking sports to sustainable arenas, Chengdu delivers an unforgettable Games. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan Welcome to the World... false 1748 full Welcome to the World Games 2025 in Chengdu, capital of Sichuan Province! This vibrant southwest city, famed for its easygoing charm, is now the global stage for thrilling competition, green innovation, and futuristic tech. From groundbreaking sports to sustainable arenas, Chengdu delivers an unforgettable Games. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan Mon, 11 Aug 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2758831 With the digital preservation of the Potala Palace, and the growing popularity of Xizang style carpets, incense and handmade paper among young consumers, Xizang has found ways to keep its timeless culture up-to-date and trendy. In this episode, we explore the part of Xizang where heritage meets creativity. With the digital pre... false 3111 full With the digital preservation of the Potala Palace, and the growing popularity of Xizang style carpets, incense and handmade paper among young consumers, Xizang has found ways to keep its timeless culture up-to-date and trendy. In this episode, we explore the part of Xizang where heritage meets creativity. Fri, 08 Aug 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2758823 From smart ranching to vegetable greenhouses, from cold-chain logistics to cross-border trade… We take a look at Xizang's industrial transformation and see how the plateau is leaping into a new era of development. From smart ranching ... false 2876 full From smart ranching to vegetable greenhouses, from cold-chain logistics to cross-border trade… We take a look at Xizang's industrial transformation and see how the plateau is leaping into a new era of development. Thu, 07 Aug 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2758820 Heart to Heart - please send your audio questions to roundtablepodcast@qq.com. / As China's family businesses prepare for a new generation to take the helm, successors face a sobering reality: companies grow, stall, or fall. With a shifting business climate, complex political relations, and economic uncertainty ahead, the pressure is on. Are they ready to steer through it all (11:36)? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan Heart to Heart - ple... false 1297 full Heart to Heart - please send your audio questions to roundtablepodcast@qq.com. / As China's family businesses prepare for a new generation to take the helm, successors face a sobering reality: companies grow, stall, or fall. With a shifting business climate, complex political relations, and economic uncertainty ahead, the pressure is on. Are they ready to steer through it all (11:36)? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan Thu, 07 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2758682 AI and pig farming sounds improbable. Yet in China, algorithms now track livestock from birth to market. Voice recognition, thermal scans and facial monitoring turn farms into data hubs. As demand for safe, sustainable meat grows, this technology is not just changing how pigs are raised, it's redefining livestock farming itself. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan AI and pig farming s... false 1833 full AI and pig farming sounds improbable. Yet in China, algorithms now track livestock from birth to market. Voice recognition, thermal scans and facial monitoring turn farms into data hubs. As demand for safe, sustainable meat grows, this technology is not just changing how pigs are raised, it's redefining livestock farming itself. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan Wed, 06 Aug 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2758679 Shenzhen is breaking new ground by rolling out a policy which accepts failure as part of the research process, even when state funding is at stake. It pushes back against the old belief that only success matters, opening up space for bold ideas to take root. Could this policy redefine how innovation happens in China? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Li Yi Shenzhen is breaking... false 1256 full Shenzhen is breaking new ground by rolling out a policy which accepts failure as part of the research process, even when state funding is at stake. It pushes back against the old belief that only success matters, opening up space for bold ideas to take root. Could this policy redefine how innovation happens in China? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Li Yi Wed, 06 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2758650 Apprenticeships promise skills and opportunity—but in today's economy, where milk tea shops and factories alike rely on trainees, the line between education and exploitation is increasingly blurred. Are these programs building tomorrow's workforce, or just masking cheap labor? We also explore the role of apprenticeships in developing skilled labor. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Li Yi Apprenticeships prom... false 1848 full Apprenticeships promise skills and opportunity—but in today's economy, where milk tea shops and factories alike rely on trainees, the line between education and exploitation is increasingly blurred. Are these programs building tomorrow's workforce, or just masking cheap labor? We also explore the role of apprenticeships in developing skilled labor. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Li Yi Tue, 05 Aug 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2758647 Social media gets blamed for teen mental health struggles, but now Australia's crackdown goes further—banning under-16s from major platforms, including the internet's biggest video hub. Is targeting video platforms alongside social media crossing a line? / Motivational Monday (20:02)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan Social media gets bl... false 1350 full Social media gets blamed for teen mental health struggles, but now Australia's crackdown goes further—banning under-16s from major platforms, including the internet's biggest video hub. Is targeting video platforms alongside social media crossing a line? / Motivational Monday (20:02)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan Tue, 05 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2758607 Raising a child is never easy, and in China, the costs can deter young families. Now, for the first time, the national government is offering monthly subsidies for families with children aged 0 to 3 — a move aimed at easing the financial burden of raising kids. It's a major shift toward a more family-friendly society. But will cash alone ease the stress of parenthood? And can it actually turn the tide on declining birthrates? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan Raising a child is n... false 1776 full Raising a child is never easy, and in China, the costs can deter young families. Now, for the first time, the national government is offering monthly subsidies for families with children aged 0 to 3 — a move aimed at easing the financial burden of raising kids. It's a major shift toward a more family-friendly society. But will cash alone ease the stress of parenthood? And can it actually turn the tide on declining birthrates? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan Mon, 04 Aug 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2758604 Shanghai holds the global title for the most office space. And yet, vacancy rates are high. So why is one of the world’s busiest cities pushing to renovate hundreds of office buildings? From old elevator systems to shifting urban priorities, this move prompts a fresh rethink of what office space means in the post-pandemic world. / Round Table's Happy Place (14:27)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Gao Junya Shanghai holds the g... false 1083 full Shanghai holds the global title for the most office space. And yet, vacancy rates are high. So why is one of the world’s busiest cities pushing to renovate hundreds of office buildings? From old elevator systems to shifting urban priorities, this move prompts a fresh rethink of what office space means in the post-pandemic world. / Round Table's Happy Place (14:27)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Gao Junya Sat, 02 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2758520 A secret billionaire. A forbidden alpha. A CEO with a dark past. It sounds like tabloid gossip—yet this explosive mix is dominating smartphone screens worldwide. China's ultra-short dramas, packing high-stakes drama into just minutes per episode, have exploded into a billion-dollar global phenomenon. But what makes these fast-paced, bite-sized stories so irresistible? And why are they captivating audiences all around the globe? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Gao Junya A secret billionaire... false 2055 full A secret billionaire. A forbidden alpha. A CEO with a dark past. It sounds like tabloid gossip—yet this explosive mix is dominating smartphone screens worldwide. China's ultra-short dramas, packing high-stakes drama into just minutes per episode, have exploded into a billion-dollar global phenomenon. But what makes these fast-paced, bite-sized stories so irresistible? And why are they captivating audiences all around the globe? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Gao Junya Fri, 01 Aug 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2758517 How to stay safe from Chikungunya fever. / For years, artificial sweeteners promised a guilt-free way to indulge—sweetness without the calories. But what if they've been secretly sabotaging your appetite instead? We uncover the truth behind that seemingly "healthy" sip (07:11). / A brand new car, latest gadget, overseas trip—some Chinese parents are turning the survival of Gaokao into a high-stakes payout. The trend of expensive post-exam rewards is growing, blurring the line between celebration and excess. As the pressure mounts and the gifts get bigger, so does the backlash (16:03). On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan How to stay safe fro... false 1341 full How to stay safe from Chikungunya fever. / For years, artificial sweeteners promised a guilt-free way to indulge—sweetness without the calories. But what if they've been secretly sabotaging your appetite instead? We uncover the truth behind that seemingly "healthy" sip (07:11). / A brand new car, latest gadget, overseas trip—some Chinese parents are turning the survival of Gaokao into a high-stakes payout. The trend of expensive post-exam rewards is growing, blurring the line between celebration and excess. As the pressure mounts and the gifts get bigger, so does the backlash (16:03). On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan Fri, 01 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2758486 What happens when a tech giant takes over your lunch? A leading e-commerce player has just opened its first fully automated takeout restaurant in Beijing—no chefs, no dining space, just robots whipping up fresh, fast meals. Could this be the next revolution in China's food delivery market? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan What happens when a ... false 1786 full What happens when a tech giant takes over your lunch? A leading e-commerce player has just opened its first fully automated takeout restaurant in Beijing—no chefs, no dining space, just robots whipping up fresh, fast meals. Could this be the next revolution in China's food delivery market? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan Thu, 31 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2758482 Heart to Heart - please send your audio questions to roundtablepodcast@qq.com. / We love to say "no question is dumb"—but don't we secretly roll our eyes when someone asks the "obvious? " That knee-jerk impatience even has a name: dumbphobia. But what if it's not just annoyance? What if it's a bias? Let's unpack why "basic" questions trigger us… and why that says more about us than them (12:40). On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Ding Heng Heart to Heart - ple... false 1423 full Heart to Heart - please send your audio questions to roundtablepodcast@qq.com. / We love to say "no question is dumb"—but don't we secretly roll our eyes when someone asks the "obvious? " That knee-jerk impatience even has a name: dumbphobia. But what if it's not just annoyance? What if it's a bias? Let's unpack why "basic" questions trigger us… and why that says more about us than them (12:40). On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Ding Heng Thu, 31 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2758447 We buy our parents smart speakers, health trackers, and delivery apps—hoping senior tech will simplify their lives. But soon, they stop using them. Not because they've lost interest, but because the tech feels too fast, too small, too alien. As the world grows older, maybe it's time to stop asking them to adapt—and start building tech that adapts to them. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Ding Heng We buy our parents s... false 1729 full We buy our parents smart speakers, health trackers, and delivery apps—hoping senior tech will simplify their lives. But soon, they stop using them. Not because they've lost interest, but because the tech feels too fast, too small, too alien. As the world grows older, maybe it's time to stop asking them to adapt—and start building tech that adapts to them. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Ding Heng Wed, 30 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2758444 Tipping culture - a Western tradition that's long divided opinions - is now being put to the Chinese test. As heated online debates reveal, this imported practice is facing its toughest critics yet in a market accustomed to service-first hospitality. / Posting ennui: going silent in a loud feed (17:28). On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Yushun Tipping culture - a ... false 1405 full Tipping culture - a Western tradition that's long divided opinions - is now being put to the Chinese test. As heated online debates reveal, this imported practice is facing its toughest critics yet in a market accustomed to service-first hospitality. / Posting ennui: going silent in a loud feed (17:28). On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Yushun Wed, 30 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2758411 Renting in China's booming cities has faced hurdles—but a major shift is coming. This September, sweeping new rental regulations take effect, impacting tenants, landlords, and the broader market. So what's changing—and how will this reshape the rental landscape? On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Yushun Renting in China's b... false 1724 full Renting in China's booming cities has faced hurdles—but a major shift is coming. This September, sweeping new rental regulations take effect, impacting tenants, landlords, and the broader market. So what's changing—and how will this reshape the rental landscape? On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Yushun Tue, 29 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2758408 Habits run on autopilot—but invisible habits? They operate deeper, hidden in the subconscious, silently steering our choices without us even noticing. These unseen routines sculpt our days, our decisions, even our identities. So what happens when we drag them into the light and rewrite them? / Motivational Monday (19:51)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun Habits run on autopi... false 1524 full Habits run on autopilot—but invisible habits? They operate deeper, hidden in the subconscious, silently steering our choices without us even noticing. These unseen routines sculpt our days, our decisions, even our identities. So what happens when we drag them into the light and rewrite them? / Motivational Monday (19:51)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun Tue, 29 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2758376 How many online orders have you made this year? One? Ten? Lost count? Well, here's a staggering stat: China has already shipped over 100 billion parcels in 2025—and it's only July. That's roughly 6,000 packages loaded up and are on their way to doorsteps across the country. The scale is mind-blowing. So how did the delivery industry get this fast, this smart, and this massive? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun How many online orde... false 1636 full How many online orders have you made this year? One? Ten? Lost count? Well, here's a staggering stat: China has already shipped over 100 billion parcels in 2025—and it's only July. That's roughly 6,000 packages loaded up and are on their way to doorsteps across the country. The scale is mind-blowing. So how did the delivery industry get this fast, this smart, and this massive? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun Mon, 28 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2758373 A character at a tourism spot is way more than meets the eye. These non-player characters (NPCs) mean a lot to the companies they represent, and a lot to the people who enjoy them as well. / Round Table's Happy Place (15:51)! On the show: Steve Hatherly, Yunqi & Yushan A character at a tou... false 1365 full A character at a tourism spot is way more than meets the eye. These non-player characters (NPCs) mean a lot to the companies they represent, and a lot to the people who enjoy them as well. / Round Table's Happy Place (15:51)! On the show: Steve Hatherly, Yunqi & Yushan Sat, 26 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2758290 While children today face growing health challenges—from near-sightedness to obesity—a powerful solution is emerging: personalized "exercise prescriptions" and community-wide efforts to get kids moving. By combining medical expertise with fun, tailored activities, doctors and educators are turning the tide on sedentary lifestyles, proving small changes can yield lifelong health benefits. On the show: Steve Hatherly, Yunqi & Yushan While children today... false 1796 full While children today face growing health challenges—from near-sightedness to obesity—a powerful solution is emerging: personalized "exercise prescriptions" and community-wide efforts to get kids moving. By combining medical expertise with fun, tailored activities, doctors and educators are turning the tide on sedentary lifestyles, proving small changes can yield lifelong health benefits. On the show: Steve Hatherly, Yunqi & Yushan Fri, 25 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2758287 Menopause is a natural yet demanding transition that millions of women navigate while working, parenting, and maintaining their lives. Behind the silence lie debilitating hot flashes, sleepless nights, and emotional turbulence—too often endured alone in a society that dismisses this phase. For women supporting families and careers, these symptoms threaten livelihoods. It's time to normalize conversations, reshape workplaces, and build support systems that reflect this universal female experience. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Niu Honglin Menopause is a natur... false 1409 full Menopause is a natural yet demanding transition that millions of women navigate while working, parenting, and maintaining their lives. Behind the silence lie debilitating hot flashes, sleepless nights, and emotional turbulence—too often endured alone in a society that dismisses this phase. For women supporting families and careers, these symptoms threaten livelihoods. It's time to normalize conversations, reshape workplaces, and build support systems that reflect this universal female experience. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Niu Honglin Fri, 25 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMT 1_2758250 Old neighborhoods are getting a fresh start—smoother streets, pocket parks around the corner, smart lights lining the blocks, and new gathering spots for everyone. This isn't about demolition, but thoughtful upgrades that keep the soul of these places intact. Across the country, cities are finding ways to modernize without erasing their past. The real magic happens when technology and community come together to shape what's next. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Niu Honglin Old neighborhoods ar... false 1706 full Old neighborhoods are getting a fresh start—smoother streets, pocket parks around the corner, smart lights lining the blocks, and new gathering spots for everyone. This isn't about demolition, but thoughtful upgrades that keep the soul of these places intact. Across the country, cities are finding ways to modernize without erasing their past. The real magic happens when technology and community come together to shape what's next. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Niu Honglin Thu, 24 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2758247 Forget 'you are what you eat.' The real game-changer? How you eat it. Science says tweaking just one thing about your meals—no willpower required—could dial up your focus, steady your mood, and keep your blood sugar in check. There is a downside though. It may make eating a little annoying. / AI pet short dramas (16:07). On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Yushun Forget 'you are what... false 1363 full Forget 'you are what you eat.' The real game-changer? How you eat it. Science says tweaking just one thing about your meals—no willpower required—could dial up your focus, steady your mood, and keep your blood sugar in check. There is a downside though. It may make eating a little annoying. / AI pet short dramas (16:07). On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Yushun Wed, 23 Jul 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2758215 China's food delivery wars flooded the market with unsustainable discounts—until regulators stepped in. Behind the deals, tactics crossed lines. Now, as the frenzy fades, the real question is how to make sure platforms keep prices low without sacrificing fair competition. On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Yushun China's food deliver... false 1746 full China's food delivery wars flooded the market with unsustainable discounts—until regulators stepped in. Behind the deals, tactics crossed lines. Now, as the frenzy fades, the real question is how to make sure platforms keep prices low without sacrificing fair competition. On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Yushun Wed, 23 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2758212 We've all heard the saying: "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade." But what if those lemons suddenly cost a fortune? We uncover the reasons behind soaring citrus prices—and the surprising new drink trend that's about to dominate your summer. / Thinking beyond Good vs. Bad (15:41). On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun We've all heard the ... false 1437 full We've all heard the saying: "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade." But what if those lemons suddenly cost a fortune? We uncover the reasons behind soaring citrus prices—and the surprising new drink trend that's about to dominate your summer. / Thinking beyond Good vs. Bad (15:41). On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun Tue, 22 Jul 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2758177 In China, vocational education has long been seen as a second-choice path, overshadowed by the prestige of university degrees. But times are changing. Some top students are now skipping university for technical training—once unthinkable. As policies shift, job prospects and perceptions evolve, the value of skilled work is being redefined. Could this be the start of an era where ability outweighs credentials? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun In China, vocational... false 1686 full In China, vocational education has long been seen as a second-choice path, overshadowed by the prestige of university degrees. But times are changing. Some top students are now skipping university for technical training—once unthinkable. As policies shift, job prospects and perceptions evolve, the value of skilled work is being redefined. Could this be the start of an era where ability outweighs credentials? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun Tue, 22 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2758174 We've all seen it—a friend raves about a hotpot spot, an influencer hypes a 'must-have' product, or a vlogger casually drops a gadget recommendation. But when does a personal post become a hidden ad? Should WeChat Moments or livestream plugs count as commercial advertising? The real challenge: where should regulators draw the line? / Motivational Monday (20:44)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan We've all seen it—a ... false 1388 full We've all seen it—a friend raves about a hotpot spot, an influencer hypes a 'must-have' product, or a vlogger casually drops a gadget recommendation. But when does a personal post become a hidden ad? Should WeChat Moments or livestream plugs count as commercial advertising? The real challenge: where should regulators draw the line? / Motivational Monday (20:44)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan Mon, 21 Jul 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2758139 This summer isn't just hot—it's hottest. While some blast the AC and call it survival, others are floating their way to victory with 'loser rafting': no skill, no speed, just a lazy river and a determination to do absolutely nothing. Turns out, in a scorching season, the smartest way to win is to not even try. Tune in for a refreshing take on how a nation learns to live, adapt, and float through extreme summer. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan This summer isn't ju... false 1736 full This summer isn't just hot—it's hottest. While some blast the AC and call it survival, others are floating their way to victory with 'loser rafting': no skill, no speed, just a lazy river and a determination to do absolutely nothing. Turns out, in a scorching season, the smartest way to win is to not even try. Tune in for a refreshing take on how a nation learns to live, adapt, and float through extreme summer. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan Mon, 21 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2758136 To all the hardworking professionals out there - you've earned that vacation time, fair and square. Yet when the moment comes, do you take it without guilt? In the U.S., where hustle culture runs deep, vacation guilt is all too common. So why does taking time off evoke a sense of guilt? / Little dots on smartphone outsmart motion sickness (24:50) / Round Table's Happy Place (30:11)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Gao Junya To all the hardworki... false 2088 full To all the hardworking professionals out there - you've earned that vacation time, fair and square. Yet when the moment comes, do you take it without guilt? In the U.S., where hustle culture runs deep, vacation guilt is all too common. So why does taking time off evoke a sense of guilt? / Little dots on smartphone outsmart motion sickness (24:50) / Round Table's Happy Place (30:11)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Gao Junya Fri, 18 Jul 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2758059 International Moon Day, established by the UN in 2021, honors humanity's collective lunar exploration—from early spacefaring nations to China's historic far-side missions. How will today's moonshots shape the future of science, technology，and maybe even life beyond Earth? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Gao Junya International Moon D... false 1054 full International Moon Day, established by the UN in 2021, honors humanity's collective lunar exploration—from early spacefaring nations to China's historic far-side missions. How will today's moonshots shape the future of science, technology，and maybe even life beyond Earth? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Gao Junya Fri, 18 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2758056 Fast, fun, and space-smart—ping pong is winning over a new wave of casual players, especially busy urban professionals. From after-work classes to quick matches between meetings, table tennis is becoming the workout of choice for city dwellers across China. / Is "F" the best seat on a high-speed train (18:28)? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Guo Yan Fast, fun, and space... false 1360 full Fast, fun, and space-smart—ping pong is winning over a new wave of casual players, especially busy urban professionals. From after-work classes to quick matches between meetings, table tennis is becoming the workout of choice for city dwellers across China. / Is "F" the best seat on a high-speed train (18:28)? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Guo Yan Thu, 17 Jul 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2758022 What does it take to turn equations into breakthroughs? The journey begins with basic science—quiet, patient, and often overlooked for decades. It starts even earlier, in the classroom. As the 2025 International Congress of Basic Science (ICBS) convenes in Beijing, the world is watching: How does China transform fundamental research into real-world innovation? And more critically—how is it cultivating the next generation of STEM leaders to push boundaries further? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Guo Yan What does it take to... false 1765 full What does it take to turn equations into breakthroughs? The journey begins with basic science—quiet, patient, and often overlooked for decades. It starts even earlier, in the classroom. As the 2025 International Congress of Basic Science (ICBS) convenes in Beijing, the world is watching: How does China transform fundamental research into real-world innovation? And more critically—how is it cultivating the next generation of STEM leaders to push boundaries further? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Guo Yan Thu, 17 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2758019 Let's be real—when do you actually bench-press in daily life? Across China, functional fitness is gaining momentum as people shift from isolated lifts to practical strength. It focuses on compound movements—lifting, twisting, pushing—building real-world ability that lasts. Just how functional is your fitness? / Throning: Dating for status (15:19). On the show: Steve Hatherly, Yushun & Yushan Let's be real—when d... false 1391 full Let's be real—when do you actually bench-press in daily life? Across China, functional fitness is gaining momentum as people shift from isolated lifts to practical strength. It focuses on compound movements—lifting, twisting, pushing—building real-world ability that lasts. Just how functional is your fitness? / Throning: Dating for status (15:19). On the show: Steve Hatherly, Yushun & Yushan Wed, 16 Jul 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2757987 Could trains soon outpace planes? China just shattered speed barriers with a groundbreaking 650 km/h maglev test, bringing us closer to a transportation revolution. While infrastructure and cost challenges remain, this leap could redefine regional travel, turning hour-long flights into obsolete relics of the past. On the show: Steve Hatherly, Yushun & Yushan Could trains soon ou... false 1762 full Could trains soon outpace planes? China just shattered speed barriers with a groundbreaking 650 km/h maglev test, bringing us closer to a transportation revolution. While infrastructure and cost challenges remain, this leap could redefine regional travel, turning hour-long flights into obsolete relics of the past. On the show: Steve Hatherly, Yushun & Yushan Wed, 16 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2757984 Unlike human broadcasters, AI presenters never tire, stumble, or miss their cues—and they're already appearing on Chinese news programs. But can a digital persona truly replicate the empathy, intuition, and authenticity of a living host? As synthetic anchors gain traction, media education faces a pivotal choice: adapt curricula for the AI era, or risk irrelevance. / Meeting migrant children's needs for quality play (30:55). On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun Unlike human broadca... false 2446 full Unlike human broadcasters, AI presenters never tire, stumble, or miss their cues—and they're already appearing on Chinese news programs. But can a digital persona truly replicate the empathy, intuition, and authenticity of a living host? As synthetic anchors gain traction, media education faces a pivotal choice: adapt curricula for the AI era, or risk irrelevance. / Meeting migrant children's needs for quality play (30:55). On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun Tue, 15 Jul 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2757949 In today's job market, mastery of skills is what truly matters. On World Youth Skills Day, we explore how China is equipping its youth with expertise in high-demand fields—from precision machining and robotics to world-class hospitality. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun In today's job marke... false 662 full In today's job market, mastery of skills is what truly matters. On World Youth Skills Day, we explore how China is equipping its youth with expertise in high-demand fields—from precision machining and robotics to world-class hospitality. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun Tue, 15 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT 1_2757946 From sweeping crackdowns on music piracy to the boom of paid subscriptions, China's decade of copyright reforms has turned music streaming into a lucrative business. But in this regulated ecosystem, who's really benefiting: artists or the platforms? / Motivational Monday (23:01)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan From sweeping crackd... false 1538 full From sweeping crackdowns on music piracy to the boom of paid subscriptions, China's decade of copyright reforms has turned music streaming into a lucrative business. But in this regulated ecosystem, who's really benefiting: artists or the platforms? / Motivational Monday (23:01)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan Mon, 14 Jul 2025 05:30:00 GMT 1_2757910