
Round Table China
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!
Latest episodes

Jun 30, 2025 • 22min
Intellectual humility? Admitting we're wrong is real strength!
Discover the transformative power of intellectual humility and why admitting you're wrong can actually bolster your strength. The discussion sheds light on cultural nuances around humility and its impact on personal growth. Explore the psychological barriers that often stifle open communication, like fear and confirmation bias. Practical tips for enhancing self-awareness and listening skills take center stage. Plus, learn a mindful morning routine to kickstart your productivity and mood!

Jun 30, 2025 • 30min
Family-free hospital care
China's innovative 'family-free hospital care' program aims to redefine how patients are cared for in hospitals. It shifts the burden of caregiving from families to professional staff, easing pressures on younger generations. The discussion highlights the cultural significance of family caregivers, who have long played a crucial role. There's also a focus on the financial aspects of this new model, addressing the costs involved and ensuring quality care without overburdening families. The future of hospital care in China is poised for transformative change!

7 snips
Jun 27, 2025 • 27min
Lychee bliss, but beware the bite!
This episode takes a deep dive into the fascinating world of lychees, exploring their royal history and modern-day popularity. Discover the sweet yet cautionary tale of 'lychee disease' and learn how this fruit transitioned from luxury to a summer staple. The discussion covers pronunciation variations and cultural significance in China, alongside valuable tips for selecting the perfect lychee. The unique logistics behind lychee transportation also reveal how e-commerce is changing perceptions of this beloved fruit.

12 snips
Jun 27, 2025 • 26min
Summer vacation spending heats up!
Summer kicks off with Gen Z embracing independence, celebrating with driving lessons and travel adventures. The rise of AI-powered driving education reflects their desire to navigate life on their terms. Domestic travel trends surge as graduates seek fun and meaningful experiences, while tech discounts for back-to-school shopping capture their attention. The summer also offers opportunities for college prep and personal growth, highlighting the delicate balance between societal expectations and individuality.

14 snips
Jun 26, 2025 • 23min
Smart hiring? AI in recruitment
Artificial intelligence is transforming recruitment, speeding up candidate sorting and screening. However, this efficiency brings ethical concerns, such as fairness and potential fraud. The discussion emphasizes the need for human insight alongside AI technology. Additionally, the challenges of translating Chinese dish names into English are explored, revealing how cultural nuances can easily be lost. Finally, the art of menu design is examined, celebrating the blend of tradition and modernity to elevate dining experiences.

11 snips
Jun 26, 2025 • 30min
Parents embrace hands-on kindergarten in China
In a refreshing educational shift, kindergartens in China are moving towards hands-on learning, focusing on skills like cooking and teamwork. Parents support this approach, applauding its role in fostering independence among children. However, there's a debate on whether these methods allow sufficient time for play. The integration of practical skills and nature in education sparks discussions on safety versus freedoms, while addressing parental anxieties about children's growth opportunities.

7 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 18min
Reforming animal releases with respect
Animal release rituals rooted in compassion can unknowingly wreak havoc on local ecosystems. Guidelines are now being enforced in China to protect biodiversity while respecting cultural practices. The podcast dives into the complexities of fangsheng, examining the ecological risks of introducing non-native species. It discusses the need for balance between tradition and conservation efforts, along with innovative solutions like symbolic animal releases. Listeners will also hear about past incidents and the dangers of exploitation in these well-meaning practices.

12 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 35min
National Low Carbon Day
Li Yunqi, who recently explored green practices in Shenzhen, joins Niu Honglin and Steve Hatherly to discuss National Low Carbon Day. They highlight innovative solutions like offshore wind farms and e-bike charging stations. The conversation delves into China's progress toward carbon neutrality, focusing on public education and community involvement. They emphasize the importance of renewable energy, noting that while advancements are significant, public awareness remains crucial. The guests also touch on empowering students with sustainability lessons to inspire future generations.

10 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 21min
The office scapegoat trap
The discussion dives into the unsettling phenomenon of scapegoating in the workplace, shedding light on the emotional burden faced by those unfairly blamed for failures. The hosts examine how blame often shifts unfairly between employees and leaders, emphasizing the need for accountability and support. They delve into the importance of establishing clear workplace boundaries and open communication to prevent toxic dynamics. Additionally, a touching listener story about discovering Chinese music adds a cultural flavor, highlighting the power of art to forge connections.

8 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 32min
Industrial tourism is factory fun!
Discover the enchanting world of industrial tourism in China, where factories transform into interactive attractions, likened to 'Industrial Disneyland.' Learn how companies like Xiaomi and Tesla are captivating younger audiences through engaging tours. Explore the growing allure of wine tourism and how storytelling enhances brand loyalty. The conversation also highlights the importance of transparency in food production, building trust while educating consumers about nutrition. Join in on the adventure of blending tech and fun in a new era of factory visits!