

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!
Episodes
Mentioned books

8 snips
Apr 30, 2025 • 26min
Stainless steel: the new interior design star?
Discover the rise of 'Prison-core,' a striking interior design trend that swaps warm woods for sleek stainless steel, perfect for modern urban living. The hosts debate how this style resonates with millennials and Gen Z, drawing parallels with popular culture. They also explore the tension between industrial aesthetics and traditional Chinese design philosophies, encouraging personal expression in home decor. Plus, listeners hear insights on navigating career challenges in a shifting job market and the importance of language skills in international trade.

16 snips
Apr 30, 2025 • 27min
Noise out, quiet communities in!
From smarter urban design to real-time noise monitoring, the mission is clear: quieter nights, better sleep, and healthier communities. We explore the rise of "quiet communities"—and why your restful sleep may soon depend on them. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Ding Heng

26 snips
Apr 29, 2025 • 27min
How to recharge the low-energy spirit?
Feeling low on energy? This discussion dives into the rising trend of fatigue among young people, exploring causes like stress and social media. Learn about the importance of mindfulness and community to combat low-energy feelings. Plus, there’s a debate on the effectiveness of creatine supplements—can they really boost your energy and athletic performance? The insights reveal mixed results and highlight the need for personalized approaches to nutrition and recovery. Get ready to discover new ways to recharge!

Apr 29, 2025 • 26min
Smarter toilets, smarter comfort!
What if your toilet offered more than just basic functionality? Smart toilets can adapt to your individual needs, cleans with precision, and even provides entertainment. In China, a global manufacturing hub, smart toilets are rapidly becoming the norm in public spaces, from shopping malls to hotels. Could this bathroom fixture soon become as essential in our homes as air conditioning? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

Apr 28, 2025 • 26min
Highlights of the 4th CMG Forum
Over 300 guests from 95 regions gathered at the CMG Forum, focusing on cultural exchange and tech's role in global communication. Attendees showcased high-tech innovations alongside vibrant cultural displays. Dive into the genetics of stress, examining its inherited aspects and maternal influences. Explore the evolution of anxiety, contrasting ancient survival instincts with today’s pressures. The discussion also delves into anxiety dreams and their roots, highlighting how environment and positivity shape our mental health.

22 snips
Apr 28, 2025 • 27min
China's universities add 29 cool new majors!
Higher education in China is undergoing a fascinating transformation with the introduction of 29 new majors. These fields include cutting-edge areas like carbon neutrality science and international cruise management. The discussion highlights the need for universities to adapt to emerging industries and job market demands. There's also a focus on the impact of artificial intelligence on academic programs. Partnerships between universities and businesses play a crucial role, raising questions about the future of traditional educational pathways.

37 snips
Apr 25, 2025 • 28min
A cure for the lovesick?
Love can blind us to who we really are, sparking irrational behavior and cultural stigma. A new service aims to cure lovesickness, raising questions about emotional health and validation. The lively discussion also features heartwarming insights from the Beijing International Film Festival, celebrating the charm of Chinese cinema and the connections fostered among its global participants. Listeners will enjoy exploring coping mechanisms for heartbreak while discovering the unexpected romantic opportunities that can arise from new hobbies.

Apr 25, 2025 • 24min
Robo-owls to the power grid rescue!
Perched high above the power lines, it's not just a bird—it's a robotic owl. This guardian of the grid and protector of wildlife represents the powerful synergy of technology and nature, where sparks fly in all the right ways! We’re taking you on a tour of machines lending their digital smarts to help monitor and protect our ecosystems. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan

Apr 24, 2025 • 25min
Gen Z's temple dining zen trend
Gen Z is finding peace in the simplicity of temple meals, using them as a remedy for urban stress. These tranquil dining experiences combine mindfulness and nourishment, proving popular among young people. Meanwhile, the gym culture is shifting, with many more focused on creating viral fitness content than their actual workouts. This rise of influencer culture brings up privacy concerns and the need for new gym policies. Plus, a captivating film from the Beijing International Film Festival is recommended for those seeking cultural treasures.

19 snips
Apr 24, 2025 • 28min
Two Chinese sites named UNESCO Geoparks!
China's new UNESCO Global Geoparks, Kambula and Yunyang, showcase stunning geological wonders and rich cultural histories. Kambula blends breathtaking landscapes with Tibetan traditions and promotes ecological tourism. Meanwhile, Yunyang boasts incredible dinosaur fossils and innovative virtual reality experiences to attract a younger audience. The podcast reveals the delicate balance between ecotourism and conservation efforts in these magnificent areas, emphasizing community engagement and sustainable practices.