
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

4 snips
Dec 10, 2024 • 26min
New visa waivers, enjoy the charm of China!
A new visa waiver policy opens the door for citizens from nine countries to explore China without a visa! Dive into the conversation about travelers seeking authentic experiences in lesser-known areas, thanks to enhanced accessibility. There's also a spotlight on Ant Forest, an app promoting sustainability while grappling with users finding shortcuts for rewards. The ethical dilemmas of eco-friendly apps spark a vibrant debate about the real impact of these actions. Get ready for insights on travel, culture, and the complexities of social responsibility!

Dec 10, 2024 • 25min
'Mom's posts.' Supporting or sidelining working mothers?
Niu Honglin, an advocate for working mothers, and Fei Fei, a commentator on employment issues, dive into the controversial rise of 'mom's job postings' in China. They dissect whether these roles genuinely empower mothers or trap them in low-wage positions. Discussion highlights include government efforts to create flexible jobs, societal biases against these roles, and the unique challenges working mothers face. The guests also emphasize the strengths mothers bring to the workforce and call for a shift in societal attitudes towards their contributions.

Dec 9, 2024 • 27min
Encore: Is founder fame an asset or a liability?
The discussion navigates the fine line between founder fame as an asset and a potential liability. Insights are drawn from influential figures like Elon Musk and Steve Jobs, highlighting how personal branding can impact consumer trust. The balance of authenticity and image on social media is examined, emphasizing the importance of relatable corporate identities. Additionally, the rise of live streaming in public spaces raises questions about community dynamics and content creation. A culinary exploration contrasts high-end dining experiences with personal anecdotes.

Dec 9, 2024 • 25min
Encore: China's booming coffee scene
China's coffee scene is booming like never before, outpacing the U.S. in branded coffee shops. The shift from traditional tea drinking to a thriving coffee culture reflects changing consumer tastes. Innovative local brands like Luckin Coffee are challenging giants like Starbucks in a fiercely competitive market. Young entrepreneurs are increasingly drawn to opening coffee shops, redefining success and fulfillment in their careers. This dynamic environment is also shaping unique coffee experiences and trends amid evolving consumer behaviors.

Dec 6, 2024 • 28min
Are young people computer illiterate?
Young people often struggle with basic computer skills, despite being raised on smartphones. This creates a skills gap in the workplace, as Gen Z excels in mobile but falters with traditional desktop tasks. The discussion emphasizes the need for better education and ongoing training to help them adapt. In a surprising twist, health implications of sleep talking are explored, linking it to potential strokes, along with practical tips for better sleep. Discover how to bridge the tech proficiency divide while addressing modern health concerns!

Dec 6, 2024 • 25min
Young Chinese wives more educated than husbands.
Young Chinese women are outpacing their husbands in education, leading to a fascinating redefinition of traditional marriage roles. This shift raises questions about the evolving dynamics in relationships, as women marry men with lower qualifications. With enrollment in higher education skewing towards women since 2009, societal norms are shifting dramatically. Families are increasingly valuing equal educational opportunities for all children, enhancing women’s empowerment and challenging long-held gender expectations.

Dec 5, 2024 • 26min
Spring Festival. A UNESCO intangible cultural heritage!
China's Spring Festival has been recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage, celebrating rich traditions and community connections. The vibrant festivities, including the dragon dance and family reunions, highlight its cultural significance. The rising trend of custom phone accessories reflects a shift in consumer behavior, turning protection into personal expression. This transformation in the phone accessory market showcases young entrepreneurs tapping into creativity and style, indicating a broader trend in consumer priorities.

7 snips
Dec 5, 2024 • 25min
Happy International Volunteer Day
Discover how digital technology is revolutionizing volunteering in China, making it easier for individuals to connect with impactful opportunities. With a staggering 236 million registered volunteers, the transformative power of community service shines through. Hear firsthand stories from the 2008 Beijing Olympics, reflecting on the vital role of volunteers. Celebrations of International Volunteer Day showcase a range of local and online events, revealing the evolving face of volunteerism in a tech-driven world.

9 snips
Dec 4, 2024 • 27min
TCM and foot therapy booming!
Feeling stressed or sore? Discover how foot therapy is rejuvenating today's youth with ancient techniques! From healing herbal soaks to invigorating reflexology, this therapy is booming in China, seeing a 200% rise in service orders. Delve into its cultural roots in traditional Chinese medicine and hear personal stories that showcase its relaxing and social benefits. As TCM gains global recognition, foot therapy stands out as a delightful wellness choice—perfect for unwinding and easy on the wallet!

Dec 4, 2024 • 25min
Computing power leasing. Digital goldmine?
The digital gold rush is shifting focus to computing power leasing, transforming the tech landscape. China's booming tech sector is investing heavily, allowing businesses to access essential resources without hefty upfront costs. Discover how smaller companies are navigating this trend and what it means for the competitive dynamics of AI. Rapid advancements, supported by government initiatives, drive the industry forward. Delve into the challenges of the chip industry and the importance of sustainability and talent development in this new frontier.