Octavio Araujo, a former colleague in Beijing, discusses the highlights and lowlights of working in China, the rise of basketball in the country, the impact of the 2008-2009 market crash, learning Chinese and China's rise as a global power, the influence of Western media, challenges of pursuing ESL certification, the dating scene in China, the lockdown experience during COVID-19, the evolution of language, analyzing 'Rich Dad Poor Dad' and 'The Creature of Jekyll Island', building wealth as a foreigner in China, the importance of teamwork and motivation in sales, protecting intellectual property rights, and changing perspectives on China and Chinese culture.
There is a shift of power to the Pacific Ocean region, with foreign companies relocating their headquarters outside of China to tap into the growing economic influence.
Censorship in China limits creativity, but the younger generation finds ways to express themselves within government boundaries.
American business culture's individualism and patriotism can hinder innovation, while China's collective mindset allows for greater mobilization of ideas.
Diversity within different regions of the United States shapes behaviors, attitudes, and culture.
Controversies surrounding Joe Biden, including his role in passing right-wing bills and his connection to Ukraine, are discussed.
Dating in China is complex, with differences in cultural norms, choices, social/economic factors impacting relationships.
Deep dives
The Shift of Power to the Pacific Ocean
In recent years, there has been a shift of power to the Pacific Ocean region, which includes countries like China, Japan, Singapore, Taiwan, and South Korea. This shift is seen as the center of the world moving from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean. Foreign companies that operate in China are now moving their headquarters outside of China, with many relocating to places like Singapore, Hong Kong, or Taiwan. This relocation is a reflection of the growing economic influence of the Pacific region and the opportunities it presents for business.
The Influence of Censorship on Chinese Movies
Chinese movies have faced censorship for years, which has limited creativity and expression. However, it is important to note that censorship is not unique to China. Many countries, including the United States, have their own forms of censorship or limitations on artistic expression. The ability to make a market for a product or idea is still present in the United States, thanks to the freedom of the capitalist system. In China, despite censorship, there is resilience, flexibility, and the ability to work within the boundaries set by the government. The younger generation in China is finding ways to express themselves and create within these limitations.
The American Psyche and Fragmented Business Culture
The American business culture is often fragmented and characterized by a sense of individualism and entrepreneurial spirit. However, it is also marked by personal ideologies that can hinder progress and innovation. The combination of patriotism, self-confidence, and individualism can sometimes create a reluctance to question one's own ideas or be open to new perspectives. This can create challenges when it comes to collaboration and adapting to changing markets. In contrast, China has a more collective mindset, which allows for greater mobilization and actualization of ideas.
The Complexities of Regional Differences in the United States
The podcast discusses the diversity within different regions of the United States and how it affects people's behaviors, attitudes, and culture.
The Controversial History and Impact of Joe Biden's Political Career
The podcast delves into the controversies surrounding Joe Biden, including his role in passing right-wing bills, his treatment of Anita Hill, and his connection to Ukraine.
The Changing Dynamics of Dating and Relationships in China
The podcast explores the challenges and complexities of dating in China, including differences between Western and Chinese cultural norms, the impact of choices and options in the dating pool, and the influence of social and economic factors on relationships.
The Challenges of Publishing a Book
The speaker shares their experience of publishing a book in China and the difficulties they encountered. They discuss the large expenses involved, such as vetting and printing, as well as the lack of interest from potential collaborators. The speaker also expresses frustration with the Chinese market, citing a perceived reluctance to take risks and lack of motivation to improve English language learning. They highlight the importance of teamwork and motivation in achieving success.
The Impact of Cultural Factors on English Learning
The speaker explores cultural factors that hinder English language learning in China. They discuss the preference for exam-oriented education, the challenges in understanding and using intonation in English, and the reluctance to use Chinese language explanations in language learning materials. The speaker emphasizes the need for a more immersive language learning approach and considers the impact of Chinese cultural values on language learning effectiveness.
Perceptions of English Teaching and Learning
The speaker shares their views on English teaching and learning in China. They mention the perceived favoritism towards teachers from Hong Kong, the limited understanding of effective language teaching methods, and the challenges of motivating students to actively engage in the learning process. The speaker expresses disappointment in the lack of collaborative effort and support among English teachers in China.
The Limitations of Being an ESL Teacher
The speaker discusses how there are limitations to what he can achieve as an ESL teacher in China and why he feels he needs to leave the country.
The Importance of Expanding ESL Teaching Programs
The speaker highlights the need for ESL teaching programs to expand and improve, particularly by creating specialized teams and focusing on specific areas of language development.
The Decision to Leave China and Return as a Lawyer
The speaker explains that he plans to leave China but wants to return in the future as a lawyer, emphasizing that he sees more opportunities and potential in the legal field.
My guest today is compadre now former colleague here in Beijing Octavio Araujo as he gets set to return to the USA after years of being in China. Concluding a 27-year interest in the country and the Chinese culture, Octavio is going back to the States to follow yet another career path, one that takes him out of the classroom and possibly into the courtroom.
In this episode we talk about the highlight and lowlights of working China, the language and culture, and some of the things he's learned from his time here in the county.
This is a long one having been aided by a few bottles of wine, familiarity, and the simple fact that, as an expat, you never know when you're going to meet again.
Show notes and tracks up on stevensirski.com and stream episode on all major platforms.
Enjoy the show with Octavio!
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