
The Taiwan History Podcast: Formosa Files
Now streaming season five, the world's biggest and highest-rated Taiwan history podcast, Formosa Files, releases ENGLISH episodes every THURSDAY, as well as one short CHINESE episode on WEDNESDAYS. Formosa Files: The Taiwan History Podcast uses an engaging storytelling format and is non-chronological, meaning every week is a new adventure. John Ross is an author and publisher of works on Taiwan and China, while Eryk Michael Smith is a writer and journalist for local and global media outlets. Both hosts have lived in Taiwan for decades and call the island home.
Email: formosafiles@gmail.com
Latest episodes

Jan 15, 2025 • 15min
FORMOSA FILES IN CHINESE! CH40-施明德:充滿爭議的英雄—臺灣民主自由的重要先驅
臺灣從1987年解嚴(金馬地區為1992年),以及1992年修正刑法100條之後,開始逐步邁向民主自由的社會,至今已是東亞民主自由成果最耀眼的國家之一。然而臺灣的民主自由絕非誰人給予,也絕非一蹴可幾。這集的Formosa Files中文版,就由兩位主持人來與大家聊聊臺灣民主自由的一位重要先驅:施明德先生。
主持人簡介:
Eryk Michael Smith-ICRT南臺灣特派員,長期從事記者採編工作、聲音編輯,也會客串DJ。現居高雄,在臺灣已經居住了接近30年,認為臺灣是自己的家。
Eric Hsu(徐葆權)-彰化北斗人,從大學南漂高雄以來,人生的大部分時間都在高雄渡過。關心臺灣文史與地方文化發展,尤其是自己的兩個家鄉:北斗與高雄。

4 snips
Jan 10, 2025 • 35min
S4-E38 - Chen Shui-bian 陳水扁: From Prison to Taipei Mayor
Dive into the inspiring journey of Chen Shui-bian, from a challenging upbringing and imprisonment to becoming a key figure in Taiwan's democratic transformation. Explore the explosive rise of the Democratic Progressive Party amid a backdrop of political reform, anti-government protests, and the end of martial law. Witness Chen's election strategy as he navigates the political landscape, focusing on local issues and uniting a younger voter base. Discover the urban evolution of Taipei and the pressing social challenges that shaped this pivotal era.

Jan 7, 2025 • 10min
FORMOSA FILES IN CHINESE! CH39-臺灣又愛又怕的颱風—臺灣的颱風故事
颱風對臺灣人來說,真的是又愛又怕。臺灣既需要颱風帶來的雨水(以及防災假?),但颱風又時常對臺灣帶來非常嚴重的災害。2024年臺灣歷經了許久不見的颱風登陸,2025年第一集的Formosa Files中文版,就由兩位主持人來與大家聊聊印象最深刻的颱風,以及一些颱風的歷史小故事。
主持人簡介:
Eryk Michael Smith-ICRT南臺灣特派員,長期從事記者採編工作、聲音編輯,也會客串DJ。現居高雄,在臺灣已經居住了接近30年,認為臺灣是自己的家。
Eric Hsu(徐葆權)-彰化北斗人,從大學南漂高雄以來,人生的大部分時間都在高雄渡過。關心臺灣文史與地方文化發展,尤其是自己的兩個家鄉:北斗與高雄。

4 snips
Jan 2, 2025 • 31min
S4-E37 - Archways and “spirit bone towers:” Decoding Taiwan’s Mysterious Structures
Dive into Taiwan's intriguing archways, known as paifang, that carry rich histories and cultural meanings. Discover the interplay between urban vibrancy and serene countrysides, and how these environments shape local stories. The discussion shifts to the complexities of Taiwanese military history, touching on brothels and the lives of soldiers who adapted after the Civil War. Reflect on the symbolism of memorial arches in Taipei and the themes of filial piety and chastity woven throughout Taiwan's architectural landscape.

Dec 31, 2024 • 9min
FORMOSA FILES IN CHINESE! CH38 - Formosa Files 中文版年度回顧 — 從零開始的 2024 年
2024年結束了!這一年對Formosa Files 中文版 podcast 來說,是起步的第一年,也是各種嘗試的一年。 從2024年的四月開始,Formosa Files 嘗試用臺灣人熟悉的語言來講臺灣的歷史故事,得到不少迴響,我們誠心感謝各位聽眾朋友一年以來的支持與鼓勵。新的2025年,我們也將繼續為各位帶來許多不同面向的臺灣歷史故事,敬請大家期待喔!

Dec 30, 2024 • 26min
[Special Encore] Jimmy Carter Dies at 100
Dive into the fascinating legacy of Jimmy Carter, exploring his decision to shift U.S. recognition from Taiwan to the People’s Republic of China. Discover the emotional chaos in Taiwan following this pivotal change and the intense diplomatic encounters that ensued. Hear about the challenges faced by Carter's advisors in balancing U.S.-China relations, along with the historical implications that shaped Taiwan’s unique status today. Reflect on Carter's lifelong dedication to peace, highlighted by his post-presidential achievements and global impact.

Dec 25, 2024 • 32min
S4-E36 - Merry Christmas 2024, and a big thank you to all our People of Quality
This year's finale celebrates listener engagement and a fresh book release from Plum Rain Press. Dive into Taiwan's unique Christmas traditions, blending local myths with global narratives. Discover the historical ties of the gifts to Jesus and the role of camphor in Taiwanese culture. An intriguing quest for the mythical 'holy bamboo' adds a whimsical touch. The duo reflects on their adventures and the exciting possibilities for the coming year. Season's greetings and gratitude for a remarkable journey make this a merry send-off!

Dec 25, 2024 • 14min
FORMOSA FILES IN CHINESE! CH37-臺灣人最頭痛的「科目」—漫談臺灣英文教育
臺灣從2017年開始全面推動雙語國家政策,然而「英語」或是「英文」一直都是臺灣人相當頭痛的學校科目之一。過去考試導向的教學方法,讓許多臺灣人對英語避之唯恐不及。這集的Formosa Files 中文版 Podcast 就讓兩位「母語」與「外語」剛好相反的主持人來與大家一起聊聊,臺灣英語教育的歷史與小故事。
主持人簡介:
Eryk Michael Smith-ICRT南臺灣特派員,長期從事記者採編工作、聲音編輯,也會客串DJ。現居高雄,在臺灣已經居住了接近30年,認為臺灣是自己的家。
Eric Hsu(徐葆權)-彰化北斗人,從大學南漂高雄以來,人生的大部分時間都在高雄渡過。關心臺灣文史與地方文化發展,尤其是自己的兩個家鄉:北斗與高雄。

Dec 19, 2024 • 35min
S4-35 - Formosa 100 years ago: American visitors to Japan's model colony in December 1924
Follow the intriguing journey of an American couple exploring Taiwan during Japanese colonial rule in 1924. They marvel at the impressive infrastructure, including Asia’s longest bridge, but also experience local quirks like betel nut chewing and curious crowds. From cultural exchanges in Tainan to a lavish dinner at the governor's table filled with exotic dishes, their encounters capture the essence of a transformative era. Reflecting on modernization and the impacts of colonialism, their observations provide a fascinating lens on Taiwan's rich history.

Dec 17, 2024 • 10min
FORMOSA FILES IN CHINESE! CH36-「奧會模式」的中華臺北—臺灣在國際場合的名字
近期臺灣在國際上逐漸有許多亮眼的表現,尤其是各式運動競賽方面。然而臺灣一直都是以「中華臺北」的名稱出賽,甚至連「國旗」與「國歌」都不一樣。然而在1950、1960年代,臺灣在奧會上真的是名為「臺灣」。究竟是何時改成「中華臺北」呢?中間又有什麼曲折呢?這集 Formosa Files 中文版 Podcast 就由兩位主持人來與大家一起聊聊,「臺灣」與「中華臺北」的歷史故事。
主持人簡介:
Eryk Michael Smith-ICRT南臺灣特派員,長期從事記者採編工作、聲音編輯,也會客串DJ。現居高雄,在臺灣已經居住了接近30年,認為臺灣是自己的家。
Eric Hsu(徐葆權)-彰化北斗人,從大學南漂高雄以來,人生的大部分時間都在高雄渡過。關心臺灣文史與地方文化發展,尤其是自己的兩個家鄉:北斗與高雄。