Spaniards have their siestas, and some Chinese still enjoy after lunch naps-both are about that midday recharge. With recent research suggesting that napping could delay brain aging, do you think we're onto something that these cultures have been practicing all along? / Is eating in front of the TV bad for you (17:28)? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

What if kids spent less time studying for exams and more time learning by doing, by getting their hands dirty outside of the classroom? This became true in a rural Chinese county, but years later, the education experiment was labeled a 'failure.' But was it really a failure, or a glimpse into a future that society isn't ready for? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

Join Niu Honglin, an advocate for reforming university standards, Yushun, a passionate debater on academic challenges, and Steve Hatherly, who navigates the complexities of graduation requirements. They tackle the heated debate on whether to make graduation tougher amidst rising failure rates. The discussion spans international academic cultures, the effects of grade inflation, and the balance between stringent standards and student wellbeing. Personal stories reveal the pressures students face as they strive for success in this educational tug-of-war.

Niu Honglin, a key figure in promoting cultural exchanges between China and Africa, joins the discussion on vibrant youth-led initiatives bridging the two continents. They explore dynamic language classes in Nairobi and stunning cultural festivals in Beijing. The conversation highlights the upcoming China-Africa Cooperation Summit, focusing on deep historical ties, infrastructure projects, and the growing admiration among African youth for China's development model. Personal stories emphasize the mutual benefits of educational collaborations and cultural exchange.

Niu Honglin, a labor law expert, sheds light on Australia's groundbreaking 'right to disconnect' law, which empowers workers to ignore after-hours communications. He discusses its potential to redefine work-life balance and employee rights. Li Yi, a designer focused on accessibility, shares innovative inventions for people with disabilities and their broader societal benefits. From electric toothbrushes to OXO Good Grips kitchen tools, the conversation highlights how thoughtful design can enhance lives and promote inclusivity.

Niu Honglin, an insightful guest discussing university trends, and Li Yi, an expert on higher education dynamics, dive into the evolving landscape of China's universities. They explore why certain majors are vanishing and which new fields are surfacing, driven by industry demands. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by students amid program cuts and the necessity for educational institutions to adapt their curricula to ensure students are job-ready. Personal anecdotes add depth, revealing how these shifts reshape aspirations and outcomes.

Heyang, Steve Hatherly, and Yushan discuss the rising trend of women embracing menswear for its comfort and confidence. They explore how gender-fluid style empowers women, highlighting cultural shifts on social media. The conversation dives into the history of fashion, revealing how women's wardrobes are evolving and reflecting individual expression. They also address the influence of Gen Z in challenging traditional gender norms and the complexities of clothing production, showcasing the importance of global diversity in fashion.

Join Heyang, a contributor on educational spending trends, Steve Hatherly, an expert on parental financial habits, and Yushan, a commentator on the economic impact of school expenses, as they dive into the back-to-school spending frenzy. They discuss whether all this shopping is necessary and explore cultural perspectives on school uniforms. Hear about the financial pressures families face and learn why transparency from universities is crucial. This dynamic chat uncovers the real costs of preparing kids for the new school year!

In this engaging discussion, Heyang, Steve Hatherly, and Yushun delve into groundbreaking Stanford research revealing that humans age in two significant bursts at ages 44 and 60. They unpack the implications of these findings on health and metabolism, explore the booming anti-aging industry projected to exceed $106 billion, and reflect on the cultural perceptions of aging across the globe. The conversation also encourages embracing aging as a journey of growth, all while adding a touch of nostalgia with a playful nod to the Pokémon exhibit blending education and fun.

Heyang discusses the exciting trends in warehouse membership supermarkets, likening them to Disneyland for bulk shoppers. Steve Hatherly shares his insights on the American experience of these vast emporiums, while Yushun delves into their growing popularity in Chinese cities. The trio explores the unique shopping experience these stores offer, highlighting their blend of luxury and everyday items. They also debate the appeal of membership fees and how this shopping model challenges traditional habits amid the rise of e-commerce.