Round Table China

Anime, manga, and gaming used to be dismissed as mere pastimes for kids and 'nerds.' But that fantasy world? It's exploded into the mainstream. ACG is now a major economic force, influencing how we shop, socialize, and spend. Are you ready for your inner stan to take over your wallet? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan 

Over the past five years, outdoor activities like biking and camping have seen remarkable growth, driving expansion across related industries. Now, as pleasant weather returns, a new picnic culture is blossoming - one that values genuine outdoor enjoyment over picture-perfect social media moments. / Game transfer phenomenon: When virtual and real worlds collide (17:37). On the show: Laiming, Steve...

Many of us scroll through applications on our phones when we shop. But imagine a tropical island where you can explore hundreds of thousands of products from more than 4,000 brands—no algorithms, just real-world browsing. Walk through pavilions of innovation, from household essentials to the latest tech. Suddenly, your wishlist just got a whole lot bigger! On the show: Laiming, Steve Hatherly &amp...

China's outdoor boom has more hikers venturing into remote areas, leading to increased rescues. Now, NGOs, rescue teams, and tech companies—including smartphone and EV makers—are collaborating on high-tech solutions that have saved dozens. But is this tech making adventurers overconfident? / How often should you wash your feet (17:00)? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

China's traditional farmers' markets have shed their messy past for a high-tech makeover, complete with self-checkout kiosks and digital systems. The glossy upgrades promise convenience, but can elderly shoppers who've spent decades counting change and chatting with vendors adapt as easily? Are these changes actually working for everyone—or just for those already comfortable with technology? On th...

You queue for tickets—gone before "Buy" loads. You try booking dinner, a tee time, a campsite visit… same result. Scalping has gone digital, parasitic, and global—hijacking every system where demand outstrips supply. This isn't just inconvenience; it's systemic exclusion. So who's gatekeeping access now? And how do we take it back (16:26)? / Motivational Monday!

We are living longer than ever, a cause for celebration. However, as societies age at an unprecedented rate, we have to wonder how the growing demand for elder care will be met. The increasing integration of robotic assistance is a prominent trend. Will these automated solutions become commonplace? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan

The curved pavilion is designed to evoke an unrolled ancient scroll, its form embracing visitors in warm bamboo hues. Poetry, etched in scripts evolved over millennia, adorns the walls. Around the bend, a lunar rock from the far side of the Moon is displayed. In Osaka, China's story unfolds as a seamless fusion of history, innovation, and a commitment to a greener future. We delve deeper into the...

Once, "forgot homework" meant a left-behind textbook. Now, in China's digital classrooms, it's a syncing error, a password expiry, or an AI glitch. But what happens when educational technology overreaches – harvesting data without permission, monetizing parental stress, or substituting learning with automation? How can we establish better oversight for these digital learning environments? On the s...

Probiotics are all the rage, promising a happy gut and a host of other health perks. But with so many yogurts, pills, and potions boasting these live cultures, it does make us wonder if the miracle workers are all they're made out to be. / The link between marriage and weight gain (19:06). On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Yushan

China boasts over 400 million e-bikes, yet surprisingly few are insured, leaving owners vulnerable after accidents. How can e-bike safety improve? And will new national standards change this picture? On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Yushan

That familiar headphone knot, the unexpected slice of paper – and bam! Out comes that satisfying, slightly naughty word. But scientists are saying that moment of swearing isn't just blowing off steam. It's a release, a show of resilience, maybe even a bit of self-care. Time to rethink what swear words do for us? Could it actually be… beneficial? / The never-ending titles of online novels (18:12)....

This spring, a trend is captivating nature, photography, and travel enthusiasts across China: birdwatching. It's about capturing the perfect shot of avian life in the wild. Celebrities are participating, tourism boards are launching bird maps, and online communities are buzzing about Great Crested Grebes. But what's fueling this fascination? Is it the allure of the gear, the prestige of the sighti...

The passive-aggressive often mask their displeasure with phrases like "I'm fine," yet their underlying resentment is palpable. We explore the complexities of passive aggression, where concealed emotions manifest through pointed tone and behavior. / What can cause a snack to cost more than a car (19:05)? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

Buckle up! The future of transportation is soaring as autonomous passenger drones are officially cleared for takeoff in China. City walks might be the go-to low-budget way to soak in the sights on foot, but in the near future, how about a "city fly" for a whole new view from above? We discuss the latest slice of low-altitude economy. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

Surrounded by the workday bustle and familiar faces, you navigate the usual workplace interactions. A nod here, a smile there, brief words exchanged. Still, an unsettling emptiness remains. What fuels this intense feeling of isolation at the office, and can anything be done about it?/ Motivational Monday (14:59)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Fei Fei

The aspiration is clear: healthy mothers and thriving babies. Achieving this vital outcome, however, requires a multifaceted approach. Today, we delve into the essential elements of care, the strength of courage, and the indispensable support that every family rightfully deserves. Examining China's experiences in this realm can offer valuable insights and lessons worthy of broader consideration. O...

In the rush of modern life, we all tick to the same clock. But what if time isn't the issue? What if the way we feel about our time is the true measure of our well-being? Let's explore the balance between Time Affluent vs. Time Poor. / Take a break, tells the touch grass app (19:59). On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

Qingming Festival is a day of remembrance, but also renewal. We discuss its modern twists, from green memorials to the call of the open road! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

Once worthless, now priceless? CCD cameras and flip phones sell for exorbitant prices, sometimes more than new tech. There seems to be a certain allure in the artifacts of a fading era, but why are people paying a premium for the past? / Blueberry mania in the office (14:28). On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan

When brands built for one gender target another, success is a gamble. Some crack the code, others fail spectacularly. We explore the triumphs, the missteps, and the future of gendered marketing. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan 

Forget city strolls and coffee dates! Young singles are now foraging in fields. This wild vegetable hunt promises a fun, relaxed first encounter. We get to the root of the question: rustic romance or a muddy mess? / Chubby filters, good or bad (16:34)? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan

A marathon transcends a mere long-distance run. It serves as a potent catalyst for local economies, invigorates sports culture, and fosters unparalleled community cohesion. We explore a marathon's profound impact beyond the finish line. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan

Picture daily grocery hauls up five flights, or elderly neighbors essentially trapped within their homes. After years of discussion, elevators are finally reaching some of China's older buildings. Yet, each installation reveals a tale of intense negotiation and community collaboration. What obstacles persist, and how can cities streamline these vital upgrades for everyone? On the show: Heyang, Ste...

Ultra-processed foods fill our grocery stores, but what's hidden in the labels? With China's stricter 'no additive' regulations and increased label scrutiny, how can consumers navigate marketing and make healthy choices? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun