

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

12 snips
Jul 29, 2025 • 25min
The invisible habits that shape your life
Invisible habits shape our choices and identities without us realizing it. They often run on autopilot, influencing our daily actions. Discovering and altering these hidden routines can foster personal growth. The hosts delve into how our environment affects habit formation, highlighting the importance of external cues. They also tackle procrastination, emphasizing the benefits of tackling small tasks immediately. Through self-examination and consistent efforts, listeners can transform their lives and cultivate positive behaviors.

10 snips
Jul 28, 2025 • 27min
100 billion packages! How? Why? Wow!
This discussion dives into China's astonishing milestone of over 100 billion parcel deliveries, driven by AI and innovative logistics. It explores the surge in online shopping, particularly among younger generations, and the cultural events that fuel this demand. The balance of human labor and technology in delivery systems is scrutinized, especially in response to an aging population. As major players like Amazon innovate, the need for sustainable practices in logistics, including green transportation and packaging, comes into sharp focus.

37 snips
Jul 26, 2025 • 23min
Meet China's real-life tourism NPCs
Discover the fascinating world of non-player characters in China's tourism, transforming ordinary attractions into immersive experiences. Learn how these actors enhance storytelling, infusing local mythology and culture in theme parks. Delve into their financial benefits versus traditional tourism fees while sharing personal accounts of adapting to life in Beijing. Bicycling through the city not only breaks the isolation of public transport but also reveals a vibrant community, illustrating the journey towards belonging.

30 snips
Jul 25, 2025 • 30min
Insufficient exercise leads to health issues in children
Children are facing alarming health challenges, with issues like myopia and obesity on the rise due to sedentary lifestyles. Innovative solutions like personalized exercise prescriptions and community initiatives are emerging to combat this trend. Outdoor play is vital for both physical and mental health, contrasting practices in different countries. The podcast discusses the importance of parental involvement and inclusivity in physical activities, while addressing how alleviating academic pressures can support children's overall well-being.

25 snips
Jul 25, 2025 • 23min
Breaking the menopause taboo
Menopause is often overlooked, yet it brings significant physical and emotional challenges for many women. The discussion sheds light on the hormonal shifts experienced, emphasizing the need for communication and understanding. Workplace hurdles are a key focus, especially for women balancing careers while managing symptoms. Personal stories highlight the urgency of support systems, particularly for vulnerable groups. Advocacy efforts aim to raise awareness and integrate menopause discussions into health checks, pushing for a societal shift in how we address this critical phase.

15 snips
Jul 24, 2025 • 28min
Modernizing timeless communities
Old neighborhoods are getting revitalized with innovative upgrades while keeping their charm. The focus is on community-oriented enhancements like smart lights and pocket parks. Technology plays a key role, from robotic inspections to monitoring solutions for the elderly. Funding challenges add complexity to these initiatives, highlighting the delicate balance between modernization and preservation. This transformation fosters inclusivity and stimulates local economies, proving that progress can honor the past.

26 snips
Jul 23, 2025 • 23min
Have you tried meal sequencing?
Discover how something as simple as meal sequencing can boost your focus and stabilize blood sugar levels with no extra effort! Learn the science behind the ideal order of food groups to enhance digestion. Personal stories add a relatable touch to the importance of mindful eating. Meanwhile, delve into the whimsical world of AI-generated pet dramas that are taking social media by storm, featuring clever storytelling and a viral ginger cat. Tune in for practical health tips and entertaining insights from the digital pet universe!

21 snips
Jul 23, 2025 • 29min
Regulators brake food delivery wars
China's food delivery market has been transformed by intense competition and deep discounts, leading to unsustainable practices. Regulators are now stepping in to ensure fair competition and protect consumers. Key players, including Alibaba and Meituan, are navigating this shifting landscape while facing challenges from new entrants. The discussion highlights the effects of promotional tactics on consumer behavior and the sustainability of local businesses amidst the subsidy wars. The future lies in balancing affordable prices with ethical practices.

9 snips
Jul 22, 2025 • 24min
Lemon prices biting? Try lemon milk!
Why are lemon prices skyrocketing? Discover the climate factors at play and how they're reshaping beverage trends. As lemons become expensive, a refreshing alternative—lemon milk—might take the spotlight this summer. The podcast also discusses how we often oversimplify experiences and the importance of embracing life's complexities. Plus, learn tips to cultivate positive thinking and avoid getting caught in negative thought patterns. Get ready for a flavorful exploration of lemons and mindset!

20 snips
Jul 22, 2025 • 28min
Is vocational education finally gaining prestige?
Vocational education in China is shedding its second-choice image as top students now opt for technical training over university. Government initiatives aim to boost vocational skills for millions, reflecting a cultural shift in career paths. The rising costs of traditional college education also play a role in this trend, with more graduates choosing practical skills for better job prospects. There's a growing recognition that ability and hands-on experience may soon eclipse mere credentials in the job market.