

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

21 snips
Sep 26, 2025 • 21min
Rock climbing reaching new heights of popularity
Rock climbing is rapidly gaining popularity in China, fueled by its Olympic debut and a health-conscious society. The rise of indoor gyms, with over 636 now in the country, caters to a diverse demographic. Social media plays a key role, showcasing climber identities through shared experiences. Outdoor climbing hotspots like Yangshuo attract thrill-seekers willing to embrace risks for stunning views. The climbing gear market is booming, and the fitness and mental benefits are appealing to beginners and enthusiasts alike.

10 snips
Sep 26, 2025 • 31min
Rural childhood obesity on the rise
Childhood obesity in rural China is escalating rapidly, with predictions that it will surpass urban rates by 2025. Historical trends reveal a significant shift from urban to rural obesity. Key risk factors include sugary drinks and academic pressure, affecting children's diets and health. The hosts discuss the challenges of improving nutrition education and school meal programs. Policy responses focus on early intervention strategies, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to tackle this growing issue.

24 snips
Sep 25, 2025 • 28min
The allure of China's VIP e-bundles
Explore the evolution of VIP memberships in China, where platforms bundle a plethora of services into super memberships. The hosts debate whether these extensive perks simplify life or inadvertently encourage more spending. They dive into popular bundles from major platforms like Taobao and Meituan, analyzing consumer value and loyalty incentives. Plus, hear insights on how users can assess the true cost-benefit of these memberships in a digital marketplace that thrives on locking in customers.

18 snips
Sep 25, 2025 • 25min
Silk Road, silver screen!
In this discussion, Tang Kelan, a youth affairs advocate and filmmaker from Macau, shares insights on his film 'Granny', emphasizing themes of filial piety and cultural identity. He explores the potential for cross-regional film collaborations and how cinema reflects societal values. Joined by director Song Zhuofei, who unveils his upcoming film 'Best Friends', they delve into the importance of empathy in storytelling, particularly in portraying autism. Both guests highlight the power of film as a bridge for cultural understanding in today's interconnected world.

20 snips
Sep 24, 2025 • 55min
Xinjiang's cultural heritage in new light
Explore the vibrant evolution of cultural heritage in Xinjiang, where ancient traditions meet modernity. Discover the lively streets of Kashi, enriched by the fusion of Uygur melodies and Guangdong's Yingge dance. Delve into the epic of Manas and its contemporary adaptations. Learn about the challenges of preserving historical structures while enhancing safety. Youth-led initiatives and emerging artisan innovations are paving the way for experiential tourism, adding new layers to this cultural tapestry.

20 snips
Sep 23, 2025 • 51min
Xinjiang's modern industry makeover
Explore Xinjiang's industrial evolution beyond agriculture. Discover how high-tech cotton farms optimize yields with AI and drones. Venture into desert aquafarms producing delicious seafood through innovative water reuse. Learn about the region's push for renewable energy with expansive wind farms and advanced textile techniques. Plus, find out how liquid-cooled data centers are revolutionizing tech use by cutting costs and tapping into green power. It's a fascinating look at a region transforming its economy with cutting-edge technology.

31 snips
Sep 22, 2025 • 55min
Xinjiang's role in Eurasia connectivity
In this engaging discussion, Lai Ming, a frequent contributor with deep insights on Xinjiang, shares vibrant observations about local culture and commerce. Yu Shan, who has personal ties to the region, enriches the conversation with historical context and firsthand experiences. Together, they reveal how Xinjiang is becoming a crucial player in Eurasia connectivity, with highlights on the bustling Urumqi Grand Bazaar, cross-border trade dynamics, and the innovative Pilot Free Trade Zone that’s shaping the region's economic landscape.

36 snips
Sep 20, 2025 • 21min
The steady energy low GI diet
Tired of that dreaded 3 PM energy crash? Learn to choose smarter carbs by understanding the Glycemic Index, your body's blood sugar guide. Discover practical low-GI foods like barley and brown rice, along with cooking tips to keep energy steady. The hosts also explore local delicacies from Xinjiang, sharing stories of traditional foods and innovative practices like AI-assisted raisin sorting. Fuel your day with science-backed strategies to conquer those afternoon slumps!

36 snips
Sep 19, 2025 • 31min
China rolls out free HPV vaccination
China is rolling out a free, domestically produced HPV vaccine for school-aged girls, marking a significant update to its National Immunization Program after 17 years. This policy aims to reduce cervical cancer rates by overcoming cost barriers and improving access. The discussion includes HPV basics and vaccine types, alongside the timeline for the policy's evolution. Public reactions reveal a mix of support and hesitancy, emphasizing the need for education on preventive care. Overall, this initiative aligns with global efforts to enhance HPV immunization.

31 snips
Sep 19, 2025 • 22min
Employee training in decline?
American firms are scaling back on employee training while Chinese companies expand theirs. Despite these contrasting trends, workers in both countries often find their training irrelevant to their actual needs. The podcast dives into why many resist learning, including time constraints and the mismatch between offered skills and workplace demands. It also explores China's booming training market with practical suggestions for effective models like mentorship and AI tools.