

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 roundtablepodcast@qq.com. Let the fun begin!
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 roundtablepodcast@qq.com. Let the fun begin!
Episodes
Mentioned books

8 snips
Oct 17, 2025 • 24min
Young couples rewrite the wedding rulebook
Discover how Gen Z is shaking up wedding traditions to make them more personal and authentic. From choosing local pubs over grand ballrooms to incorporating DIY designs, young couples are prioritizing their stories. Explore the shift away from elaborate rituals toward shorter, joyful ceremonies that emphasize celebration instead of performance. Instead of traditional photographers, new media-savvy creators capture these moments, illustrating a fresh approach to marriage that balances individuality with family expectations.

8 snips
Oct 17, 2025 • 27min
Delivery riders given right to refuse
Delivery riders in China are now empowered to refuse unreasonable customers, thanks to a new blocking feature. This shift enhances rider agency and safety, as they face numerous challenges including harassment. The discussion includes how complaints previously harmed riders’ earnings and the pressures from algorithms. Hosts explore customer demands beyond delivery, netizen reactions, and the need for a balance between legitimate complaints and rider protections. Overall, this change is seen as a significant step towards improving rider dignity and well-being.

9 snips
Oct 16, 2025 • 17min
Encore: Troubles & triumphs of travel photography
Travel photography has evolved into a popular service for newlyweds, families, and individuals seeking picturesque portraits. However, the industry faces challenges like hidden fees and operational chaos. The conversation reveals a surge in new photography studios, yet many experience crises similar to Bojue Travel Photography, plagued by financial troubles and competition. The hosts also discuss the transformation of parenting spaces in malls, highlighting inclusivity and amenities that cater to all parents. This cultural shift reflects broader societal changes.

16 snips
Oct 16, 2025 • 34min
Encore: Women are gaming's powerful new players
Explore the remarkable rise of women in the gaming industry, which is now worth over $184 billion. Delve into the shift from a male-dominated past, where stereotypes excluded female gamers, to the recognition of women as key players. Discover how mobile gaming has opened doors for many, alongside iconic female characters like Lara Croft reshaping perceptions. Learn about women’s growing roles in esports, the challenges of gender imbalance in development roles, and the economic power female gamers wield in shaping the industry's future.

21 snips
Oct 15, 2025 • 23min
The AI comic drama boom
The podcast dives into the rise of AI-driven comic dramas, redefining China's media landscape with cost-effective, short-form productions. Hosts discuss the bingeable format and how platforms like Douyin fuel massive audience engagement. They reveal astonishing viewer growth and talk about the international success of titles like Vampire's Wrath. The conversation touches on monetization strategies that attract advertisers and the speed at which AI can produce content. Challenges in branding and quality amidst the influx of independent creators are also explored.

22 snips
Oct 15, 2025 • 30min
Care service vouchers for the elderly
China has launched a new subsidy program for elderly care, offering financial relief for families with aging parents facing disabilities. Over 243,000 vouchers were quickly utilized, showcasing high demand. The program covers a range of services and varies by region, with specific amounts allocated for in-home and institutional care. However, challenges like assessment accuracy and fraud risk remain. Experts highlight the positive impact on family burdens, while discussions about integrating technology for improved care are intriguing. The need for long-term solutions for an aging population is emphasized.

36 snips
Oct 14, 2025 • 25min
China's short video apps get a makeover
Short video apps are evolving beyond just entertainment, becoming social hubs where users can connect in real-time. Platforms like Douyin and Kuaishou are adding features akin to WeChat Moments to encourage sharing and interaction. Simultaneously, a new trend emerges as office workers turn their desks into mini gyms, integrating fitness into their busy routines. This blend of social features and workplace wellness raises questions about user habits and the effectiveness of desk workouts.

13 snips
Oct 14, 2025 • 26min
The rise of skyward adventures
Explore the booming trend of stargazing tourism, where travelers now chase celestial phenomena instead of guidebook adventures. Discover personal experiences like meteor shower trips, the growing popularity of stargazing hotels, and the influence of social media on this unique travel niche. Dive into the cultural romance associated with celestial events and learn about challenges like weather unpredictability. Plus, uncover the fascinating world of meteorological tourism, from the stunning sea of clouds to rare solar halos.

51 snips
Oct 13, 2025 • 25min
Rethinking the traditional classroom
Imagine a classroom where learning is a shared journey rather than a lecture marathon. Think co-teaching, flipped classrooms, and innovative assessments like exit tickets, which help gauge student understanding in a fun way. Explore how these methods, especially in STEM education, can dramatically enhance engagement and outcomes. Discover the magic of collaboration, where teachers team up to cater to diverse needs, and students participate actively in their learning. Plus, insights on handling road rage provide an unexpected motivational twist!

16 snips
Oct 13, 2025 • 27min
China unveils world's new tallest bridge
Discover the awe-inspiring Huajang Grand Canyon Bridge, nearly twice the height of the Eiffel Tower, transforming a two-hour drive into a thrilling two-minute experience. Learn how Guizhou's rugged terrain necessitates such state-of-the-art infrastructure, boosting connectivity and local economies. Get a peek into innovative construction technologies and the engineering challenges faced, including wind measurement and safety planning. Explore plans for bridge tourism, with observation decks and adrenaline-pumping activities planned for visitors.