Round Table China

Is 'natural' always better? We love organic food, herbal remedies, and chemical-free products, but does 'natural' always equate to being safer or healthier? Are we unjustly skeptical of artificial advancements? We thoroughly examine the concept of the naturalistic fallacy! / Motivational Monday (20:31)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

AI-powered smart homes promise seamless automation, anticipating needs and optimizing living spaces. From self-adjusting thermostats to voice-controlled appliances, these homes represent the pinnacle of technological convenience. Yet, despite the buzz and apparent advantages, fully integrated AI smart homes remain a niche luxury. If they're truly the future of living, why haven't they become a mai...

For centuries, the middle reaches of the Yellow River have served as a vital waterway linking central and northern China. But with the development of road transport, the Yellow River's role as a transportation artery faded into history. In this episode, we visit an ancient ferry port along the river and explore the lives of the boatmen's descendants. If you like what you heard, here is the podcast...

Mini-games have surged in popularity, becoming a dominant force in the mobile gaming world. Their appeal lies in their accessibility and bite-sized gameplay, perfect for short bursts of entertainment during commutes or downtime. The rise of mobile technology, coupled with the free-to-play model and social features, has fueled this explosion, making mini-games a ubiquitous part of modern digital cu...

March 8 is International Women's Day, celebrated under the theme "For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment." This year's theme calls for actions that can unlock equal rights, power, and opportunities for all, envisioning a feminist future where no one is left behind. Central to this vision is the empowerment of the next generation—youth, particularly young women and adolescent girls—...

FOBO, or the fear of a better option, is a psychological phenomenon in which individuals struggle to make decisions due to the constant worry that a better alternative may exist. This paralyzing fear often results in indecision, procrastination, and dissatisfaction, as people become overwhelmed by endless possibilities and the pressure to make the "perfect" choice. We discuss how to overcome FOBO...

The annual Two Sessions are in full swing in Beijing! This year's top political meetings highlight science and technology as prominent topics. From artificial intelligence to cutting-edge research, how is China navigating its path toward the future of innovation? Round Table's Yushan interviews NPC deputy Cui Yan, director of the China-Germany AI Institute at Wuyi University. (06:43-18:00)On the s...

Education in China has come a long way！Once upon a time, students had to copy exercise books by hand, and now they use AI-powered tablets in classrooms. Despite all this progress, there's always room for improvement: How do we balance tradition and innovation? How do we make education accessible and effective for all? Today, as educators from all around the country share their insights during Chi...

Typing all day, staring at screens, and sitting for hours—does this sound familiar to you, office workers and professional gamers? That stiff neck, aching wrist, and tired eyes aren't just minor annoyances; they're signs that your body is pleading for help! Forget the spa; we discuss how hospital rehabilitation might actually be a more effective solution for office warriors like us. / No handbag?...

Policies, progress, and the path forward! China's Two Sessions set the policy agenda for the year. We provide an overview of the meetings, analyze the key points, and hear from an expert about the nation's green future. Heyang interviews Zhu Linxiao, an expert in energy policy and climate action.(06:21-19:30) On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

From solo dining to private gyms, businesses are catering to young adults who are embracing independent living. The solo living economy is thriving, with services designed for convenience, self-care, and personal fulfillment. What are your thoughts on this new trend? / Motivational Monday (18:21)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Laiming

China's National Ear Care Day, which coincides with World Hearing Day, serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of auditory health. This annual event aims to raise awareness about ear-related issues and promote preventative measures. By focusing on education and early detection, it strives to improve the overall well-being of the Chinese population. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly &...

If you are currently in a relationship or have ever been in one, you likely understand that it requires significant effort from both partners to ensure its success. We see what the experts say for the best tips to keep both ourselves and our partners happy! / Celebrities exploring stores for you—would you make a purchase (16:45)? On the show: Steve Hatherly, Laiming & Niu Honglin

Every city, town, and village around the world possesses its own unique character. The buildings within these communities narrate the history of their locations. Public buildings hold greater significance than we often recognize. It is essential to consider what actions should be taken to preserve these treasured architectural gems, ensuring that we and future generations can continue to appreciat...

Beijing, the capital of China and one of the largest cities in the world, is a vibrant metropolis with a rich history. From ancient palaces to cutting-edge skyscrapers, this city truly has it all! Join us, and we'll give you 3,000 compelling reasons to visit this 3,000-year-old capital! On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Yushun

China's marine economy is a significant and rapidly expanding sector that plays a vital role in the nation's overall economic development. The Ocean Decade International Coastal Cities Conference, held in Qingdao, China, provides an excellent platform for groups to convene and discuss important issues related to the industry. Just how important is China’s marine economy to the country? We explore...

We're aware that your office desk is a reflection of your workplace persona. The trend of work desk ornaments, some called emotional stabilizers, has quickly grown into a market in China, driven by young consumers' need for stress relief and emotional support at work. So, what does your workstation say about you? / Why do skiers get sunburned so easily (20:43)? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly...

Chongqing, a municipality in Southwest China, nestled in the mountains, driven by industry, and spiced up with passion! It's now the number 4 titan in China's trillion-Yuan GDP club! Let's sit down and explore how it got there! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Ding Heng

Ever walked out of a meeting thinking, 'I didn't achieve anything, yet I feel exhausted'? It might not be the workload—it could just be your boss's management style that's been draining you emotionally. We discuss how bosses, whether intentionally or not, contribute to workplace burnout and emotional fatigue. / Don't bathe when… (20:55) On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Fei Fei

Game-changing AI, dancing robots, epic video games and more, Hangzhou's startup scene is on fire! So, why is this city in eastern China suddenly the epicenter of China's startup revolution? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Fei Fei

The pandemic era began with quiet quitting in the US, defined by minimal effort and strict boundaries. Now, a more dramatic shift: revenge quitting, marked by impactful departures. American workers are leaving not just jobs, but making pointed statements. Could this trend spread globally, perhaps to China? / Motivational Monday (20:05)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan

Move over, Jedi! China's moviegoers have spoken! Nezha 2 has dethroned Star Wars: The Force Awakens as the highest-grossing film in a single market. However, beyond the impressive numbers, there's another surprise—this record-breaking hit was produced entirely in the Chinese city of Chengdu. What is driving this city's emergence as a new force in animation and beyond? On the show: Heyang, Steve Ha...

As myopia, obesity, and a general lack of physical exercise become increasingly concerning among Chinese students, China's new policies aim to increase the number of qualified physical education teachers. We look at some key aspects of these policies and discuss their potential impact on the education system. / Round Table's Happy Place (19:23)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

Dating apps once promised to be the internet's gateway to love, but it appears that young people in some parts of the world are beginning to abandon them. Are we witnessing the decline of the romance between dating apps and digital natives? If so, where will individuals look to find love? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

While the Spring Festival may have concluded, the allure of Nianxiao flowers persists. These vibrant blooms, ranging from elegant orchids to cheerful 'emotional plants,' are now a staple in homes throughout China, enhancing both our spaces and spirits. We explore their increasing influence in the floral market. / Is leaving trash at the apartment door illegal (18:23)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Ste...