

Round Table China
China Plus
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 ezfmroundtable@foxmail.com. Let the fun begin!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 15, 2024 • 28min
Youth leading the way on 'voluntourism'
Explore the world of 'voluntourism' where adventure meets altruism, as the hosts delve into the complexities and controversies of this unique form of travel. From balancing work-life harmony to understanding the complexities of others, and uncovering inspirational philanthropic donations, this episode offers a diverse range of thought-provoking discussions.

Mar 15, 2024 • 25min
Can legal measures tame the soaring costs of betrothal gifts?
Exploring the impact of court rules on betrothal gifts in China, challenges rural bachelors face in finding a spouse, the evolving nature of these gifts, societal gender dynamics, economic security in marriages, differences between Western and Chinese traditions, and the importance of legal reforms to combat gender discrimination and domestic violence in marriage.

Mar 14, 2024 • 27min
The 'ugly workplace outfit' challenge
From viral videos to office fashion rebels, explore the #UglyWorkOutfit trend that’s shaking up workplace norms. It's not just about what one wears, it's a statement on modern work culture! / Chinese "Bao Gai" makeup makeovers amaze the world (15:00). On the show: Heyang, Ding Heng & Josh Cotterill

Mar 14, 2024 • 25min
Can AI help us grieve?
One of life's most difficult experiences is losing a loved one. It would be somewhat easier if grief followed a linear path, with stages that neatly fit into boxes. But big feelings can emerge throughout the grieving process. Now, companies are offering the capability to create an AI bot resembling that special person you wish to see again. What drives our desire to keep our loved ones by our side, even in digital form? And at what cost does this technological comfort come? On the show: Heyang, Ding Heng & Josh Cotterill

Mar 13, 2024 • 28min
Chinese people spent over $5.6 billion reading online novels
In the ever-evolving landscape of digital media, one trend has firmly taken root and is flourishing within China's vast internet ecosystem: online literature. As of the end of 2023, this digital literary empire has not only captivated half of the nation's internet users but has also amassed a market value of around 5.6 million US dollars. We take a closer look at this fascinating virtual world. / Let's dissect some food safety rumors and their far-reaching impacts (22:12). On the show: Niu Honglin,Laiming & Steve Hatherly

Mar 13, 2024 • 25min
Do students need daily physical education classes?
Do you recall the days when sports classes were much anticipated by students but could vanish at the first sign of the PE teacher calling in “sick”? In many cities including Beijing, Shanghai, and most recently Shenzhen, a bold stride has been transforming the scene, promising students the joy of physical education every single day. On the show: Niu Honglin,Laiming & Steve Hatherly

Mar 12, 2024 • 28min
Why are young workers shying away from construction work?
Despite the relatively fat pay checks, young people are apparently still shying away from home renovation jobs, which make up a big part of the construction industry. Why are young talents uninterested in working in construction? What's the consequence of the decline in the number of young workers in hard hats? On the show: Heyang, Li Yi & Yushun

Mar 12, 2024 • 25min
Tree Planting Day gives gift to the environment
Exploring China's dedication to reforesting landscapes on National Tree Planting Day, showcasing achievements in conservation and innovative approaches. Delving into the significance of tree planting day as a team-building activity and its commercial aspects. Innovative tree-planting app incentivizing eco-friendly habits through credits. China's ongoing efforts in expanding forest areas and improving grasslands, along with challenges in eco initiatives.

Mar 11, 2024 • 53min
Recap of 'Two Sessions' on Round Table
Today, we present a recap of the Two Sessions and look at some of the most important issues being discussed. Joining us on the show are Laiming, our regular panelist from Round Table Niu Honglin, and our guest Ms. Giorgia Maset, who has a master's degree in advanced European and International Studies. She will share her perspective on how the world interprets the messages conveyed at the Two Sessions. / Special edition of Motivational Monday (47:07)!

Mar 8, 2024 • 27min
Are female gamers becoming the 'game changer?'
Calling all gamers! Are you ready to level up your perspective? Now, female video and mobile game enthusiasts constitute nearly half of China's gaming demographic. We take a look at the ascent of female gamers and the meteoric rise of female-centric titles that are reshaping the gaming universe! / Round Table's Happy Place (22:26)! On the show: Heyang, Gao Junya & Josh Cotterill