Round Table China

From the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics to the present, China's enthusiasm for ice and snow continues to flourish. Beyond the slopes and snow-filled games, what role does this expanding industry play in revitalizing regional economies and enhancing international tourism appeal? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

Less school, more cool—or is it simply less of everything? The four-day school week has sparked widespread discussion, with rural teachers celebrating and frazzled parents navigating their Fridays. We do the math to see if these reduced school schedules are an A+ or an F! / How would you feel when no one comes to your wedding (19:31)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Li Yi

From Olympic stadiums to year-round indoor snow parks, China's passion for ice sports is heating up, redefining both recreation and business. Picture a ski slope teeming with beginners, seasoned snowboarders carving trails, and families laughing in the snow—doesn't this sound like the winter wonderland you've always dreamed of? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Li Yi

Some argue that your position in the birth order influences your career, intelligence, and even personality. But how much of this is based on scientific evidence, and how much is merely a stereotype? We explore the intriguing—and sometimes controversial—effects of birth order. Where do you fit in your family lineup, and does it truly make a difference? / Heart to Heart - please send your audio questions to roundtablepodcast@qq.com (18:03). On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

China's new electric humanoid robot is a world first, and the company behind this technology has chosen to make it open source. But what exactly does "open source" mean? What are the benefits for a company that adopts this approach? Additionally, what advantages does open source technology offer the general public? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

Here's something intriguing about the Chinese diaspora: while many engage in gardening, Chinese families around the globe are actively cultivating fresh vegetables, with some even transforming it into a profitable business! What's behind this passion for farming over traditional gardening? / Motivational Monday (22:39)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan

With the rise of cord-cutting and numerous streaming options, one might assume that the humble television set is on the verge of extinction. However, recent data from China presents a different narrative. Although TV sales volumes experienced a slight decline in 2024, revenue continued to surge. In contrast, projectors are witnessing a decline across the board. What is driving this trend? Is the television, once considered a relic of the past, actually undergoing a resurgence among young Chinese consumers? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan

Who knew hotpot could go on a diet? Welcome to the world of mini hotpots—where the pots are small, but the flavors are bolder than ever. Think of it as hotpot’s younger, trendier sibling, obsessed with efficiency, enamored with conveyor belts, and possessing an eye for the Instagrammable. But are these mini meals a game-changer, or merely a passing fad? / Why you are probably sitting down for too long? (16:41) On the show: Niu Honglin, Brandon Yates & Dingheng.

Handing over a family business to the next generation—what could possibly go wrong? Well, imagine ‘Succession’, but with less corporate espionage and more awkward family dinners, where your dad still insists on calling you ‘kiddo’ while entrusting you with a multi-million-dollar empire. Buckle up as we dive into the drama, comedy, and occasional tragedy of second-generation business leadership. On the show: Niu Honglin, Brandon Yates & Dingheng.

Birds are not only found in the wild; they are also taking flight in app design! Just take a look at your smartphone interface, and you will see them everywhere. From owls to penguins to magpies, bird-themed icons are transforming our device screens into a digital aviary! / RoundTable's Happy Place (19:41). On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Guo Yan.

Many bus companies are facing a challenging future as they struggle to stay afloat. With a new regulation set to take effect in December of this year, local governments will be required to support their local bus services. However, will this intervention be enough to reverse the tide and reduce operational losses? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Guo Yan.

RoundTable's Heart to Heart. / A new trend emerging in Chinese cities is the intersection of academia and bar culture. Academic bars provide young people with the opportunity to learn in a relaxed environment, blending the vibrancy of social settings with the depth of scholarly discussion. What attracts individuals to these events, and how are they transforming our approach to learning (15:21)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Yushan.

With Peru hosting the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting, it presents an excellent opportunity to explore the deepening relationship between China and Peru. From cultural connections and youth exchanges to ambitious economic initiatives, these two nations are discovering more common ground than ever before. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Yushan.

Stanford University researchers just dropped a bombshell: we age in two big bursts! One at 44 and another at 60! This suggests our bodies don't age gradually over time. But is there more to be learned? / Round Table's Happy Place (21:43)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

Warehouse-style membership supermarkets are like Disneyland for bulk shoppers! Imagine cruising through massive aisles filled with snacks, clothes, and even a frozen whole lamb. This quintessential American experience is catching on in major Chinese cities. What's driving this trend? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

Is Baidu or Google still the preferred source for answers? Gen Z certainly doesn't think so! Young people are now ditching large search engines and turning to Douyin and Instagram for everything from lunch spots to life hacks. Why has social media become the new place to go for people to find all the answers to their questions? / Motivational Monday (16:56)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan Fei Fei

Double Eleven is like China's Black Friday, but on a much larger scale! How long does the discount period last in China, and what trends are currently transforming our virtual shopping carts this year? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Fei Fei

Imagine a cup of latte crafted from Ethiopian coffee beans blended with buffalo milk from Venezuela—that's the essence of the China International Import Expo (CIIE) country exhibition. Here, each nation showcases its premier products and local sectors, aiming to cultivate connections with the global market. Beyond merely displaying a variety of goods, the CIIE also strengthens trade ties among countries in the Global South. Reporter Yushan speaks with representatives from Ethiopia and Venezuela about the significance of entering the Chinese market for their countries and local industries.

The Beijing-Shanghai high-speed trains aren't just traveling between China's biggest cosmopolitans at top speed of 350 km/h, they also serve as important workspaces as busy workers are transforming travel time into productive office hours. What's driving this shift to mobile workspaces on rails? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

With automation stepping in for everything from cooking to serving, the food industry is evolving rapidly. How will this technological shift affect restaurant operations, food factories, customer interactions and job opportunities in the coming years? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

This year's China International Import Expo is packed with pioneering designs and tech from the world's biggest companies, all converging in Shanghai. We hear an on-site report to get the latest buzz at the expo, with a look at what's new and exciting in the automotive sector! / Are persuasion tactics mere tools of influence, or are they exploiting our most natural instincts for gain? We explore the fine line between honest influence and outright control (15:28). On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Fei Fei

Secondhand shopping is more popular than ever! It's cheaper, greener, and definitely lighter on your carbon footprint. We explore the secondhand market to find out why consumers are so eager to buy secondhand items! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Fei Fei

We're celebrating a fantastic leap towards inclusivity in the film industry. China's latest blockbusters are now equipped with audio descriptions, making the magic of movies accessible to visually impaired viewers. So, whether you're sighted or visually impaired, get ready to experience the summer's hottest blockbusters in a whole new way. / How anger affects your heart, brain, and guts (18:44). On the show: Heyang, Yushun & Yushan

From factory floors to our living rooms, that's the journey that robots are making, and China is accelerating this transition. While industrial robots have revolutionized manufacturing, humanoid robots are poised to transform our everyday lives. Today, we'll explore the technological strides being made and the ethical questions they raise. On the show: Heyang, Yushun & Yushan

Where there's demand, there's opportunity. Amateur biographers from all walks of life are writing commissioned memoirs for ordinary older adults. What's behind this phenomenon, and what are the benefits to the elderly for taking part in such a process?  / Do dogs understand (19:29)? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Li Yi

Shanghai is rolling out the red carpet for the world! The China International Import Expo, or CIIE, is back for its 7th year, offering a prime stage for global brands to connect with China’s dynamic market. Join us as we get you caught up on all you need to know about the exciting event! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Li Yi

AI tools are becoming more prevalent in our workplaces. From chatbots to data analyzers, it seems like every task now comes with its own digital assistant! But with so many options, are we making our lives easier or just adding to the chaos? / Motivational Monday (19:24)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

Kids are building huge followings and even making money as social media influencers, but at what cost? Is becoming a kidfluencer all fun and games, or are there real risks when children take the spotlight so young? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

Plush toy design used to be restricted to teddy bears and other animals. But now we see local delicacies joining the party as well, and kids and adults alike are loving it! What's behind the food-themed toy craze and what makes people so enchanted by these squishy delicacies? / Round Table's Happy Place (16:15)! On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

As cities grow and populations rise, so does the need for fast, interconnected travel. China’s intercity metro lines are bridging this gap, seamlessly linking cities and regions to foster economic and social ties. What are the impacts on those who use these connections daily? We discuss how these lines are transforming both cities and lives across the country. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

You may think that exploring a wealthy neighborhood is something reserved for real estate agents or potential home buyers. But these days, from community tennis courts to swimming pools, everyone is taking advantage of local community amenities! We give you all the details behind this fun trend. / Welcome to the adorable world of 'pet jobs' in China, where cats and dogs now 'clock in' at cafes, charming customers to get paid in snacks (18:00). On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Li Yi

Starting a family is a beautiful journey, but for many young people today, it can also feel like a daunting challenge. From childcare to financial stability, the questions and concerns keep piling up. But what if society could ease some of that burden? China's new policies aim to do just that! Let's explore how we can nurture a society that helps parents thrive. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Li Yi

We're right in the heart of the "Osmanthus Economy" season! We explore how this beloved flower is blossoming into a thriving industry! What makes this petite flower so prized culturally and economically? / What are pre-cooked social media updates (19:32)? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan

Millions of children in China are the only children in the family, and the responsibility of taking care of their elderly parents falls on them. Today, we highlight the urgent caregiving challenges they encounter and the societal shifts necessary to support them. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan

Don't want to do it yourself? Hire a stand-in! In the fast-paced lives of young people, sometimes it's easier to pay someone else to complete experiences for them. But some of the examples will raise an eyebrow! What's driving young consumers to turn everyday joys into outsourced tasks? / Live photos take over WeChat (21:23)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan

Degrees in hand, young professionals are heading back to school, but this time for trade skills. With job markets shifting, we explore why more workers are adding hands-on expertise to their academic credentials. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan

Have you ever considered that rejection could actually be a good thing? Rejection therapy is fighting fire with fire and teaches us that there is much to be gained from being turned down. Join us as we unpack why rejection might be the ultimate character-builder! / Motivational Monday (17:33)!  On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

Imagine a world without sound. No laughter, no music. Cochlear implants are now increasingly covered by insurance in China, suddenly making the unattainable attainable for many. We explore the impact of this change in healthcare policy and learn more about the benefits the patients may enjoy. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

Round Table's Happy Place! / Ever thought about turning your weekend stroll into a treasure hunt? Chinese city dwellers are diving into the wild, collecting everything from edible plants to unique rocks! People are loving this newfound hobby, but could they be putting nature—and themselves—at risk (14:03)? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan

Sarcopenia is the age-related loss of muscle mass, strength, and function. But, perhaps surprisingly, it's affecting young people as well. What are the risk factors, diagnosis, and management of this condition? Join us to learn just how important it is to be taking care of our muscles. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan

When a social media platform clearly states that it will use your input to train its AI model, what ethical considerations arise regarding intellectual property and consent? X users are up in arms as they figure out whether they want to stay on board or not. / Hug it out, but make it quick (21:21). On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

Move over iOS and Android, there's a new player in town! Huawei's brand new HarmonyOS NEXT has just arrived as China's first locally-developed mobile operating system, and it already has the world talking! The tech world is abuzz with its impact. We break down exactly what it's all about! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

From helicopter parenting to lawnmower parenting, some approaches to raising children often give parenting a bad name. In contrast, lighthouse parenting shines a positive light on what effective parenting can truly look like. So, what exactly constitutes lighthouse parenting? Experts are on board. Are you? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Fei Fei

In a world where cars are caught in an electrifying tug-of-war, hybrid electric vehicles are the peacekeepers. But where do plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) fit in? How do they compare with other available EV options, and where does the market stand now? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Fei Fei

With the 16th BRICS Summit going on in Kazan, today's episode brings the discussion close to home. We're joined by three young leaders from BRICS countries—Russia, South Africa, and Brazil—who've all spent time living in China. Together, we explore what BRICS cooperation really means for young people, how it helps foster cultural exchange, and what lessons they've learned along the way. On the show: Niu Honglin, Aleksandra Kleimenova, Shannah Rose Erasmus & Vitor Moura

Ever dreamed of being the smartest kid in school—the one who always knows the answer and outshines everyone without breaking a sweat? Well, it turns out there's an easy way to make that dream come true: just compete against kids way below your level on learning apps. But who's doing this, and what happened to the idea of picking on someone your own size? / Motivational Monday (15:49)! On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

Ever wonder what makes an idea legally yours—or how patents and copyrights fuel billion-dollar industries? That is the magic of intellectual property, and this week, China welcomes the AIPPI World Congress for the first time in its 127-year history as the city of Hangzhou plays host. With over 4 million valid invention patents and a reputation for rapid innovation, China's IP story is nothing short of groundbreaking. Today we explore the Congress, take a look at China's achievements, and discuss how protecting great ideas is essential for building the future. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

Believe it or not, there's a whole trend on social media dedicated to just figuring out how to open EV car doors. Wild, right? Have engineers gone too far? And what's the reason behind the hidden handle design? / More money, less joy (19:09)? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan

What if superhero suits could give you real-life strength? In China, exoskeletons are bringing that dream to life, transforming industries and daily life. From factory workers to those with serious medical needs, various forms of exoskeletons are having an impact. How soon before everyone gets their own ‘Iron Man' upgrade? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan

Some say food is the gateway to culture, and culinary tourism is booming—with people estimated to spend over $1 trillion this year alone. But not every traveler wants to dive headfirst into unfamiliar dishes. Should we judge? Science seems to offer a pretty solid explanation for the behavior. / The secret to lasting love might just be knowing how to fight (16:32). On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Yushan

Thousands of people from around the world have flocked to Guangzhou, where the 136th Canton Fair is now in full swing. Massive halls filled with cutting-edge tech, innovative household appliances, and green energy solutions invite us to a space buzzing with energy and endless business opportunities. Today, we take you inside one of China's largest trade fairs and explore how innovation is driving the future of global exports. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Yushan

A viral post has stirred online debate regarding the actual quality of 4K videos when streamed online, and now the internet is abuzz with questions. Is compression killing our viewing experience? And if so, why? Do creators have a right to be upset? / The overuse of "like" in English. It's not just a filler word (17:46)! On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

Food waste is a major global issue, and World Food Day challenges us to rethink how we consume and value food. We learn about the day, discuss some of our questionable habits, and find out how we can waste less, eat better, and make better decisions to help create a more sustainable food system. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

What happens when a hidden gem goes viral? The Ailao Mountains are suddenly buzzing with tourists, drawn in by adventure videos and online buzz. But with thrill-seekers flooding the region, new safety concerns arise. We explore what makes places like Ailao so irresistible—and how we can protect both people and nature along the way. / Why do some people find it so easy to care for others but struggle to care for themselves (15:41)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Ding Heng

What does it mean to have a home of your own? For some, it's a symbol of success and security. For others, it's a financial burden waiting to happen. As ideas around family, independence, and stability evolve, so do our views on buying property. We explore the shifting landscape of home ownership and why younger people are rethinking the dream of owning a home. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Ding Heng

The relentless pursuit of better ratings has led to extra pressure for businesses and much fuss in our lives. In a recent bout of innovation, food delivery and rating platforms have started inviting their users to review the reviews. Will this improve the quality of ratings and make them relevant in our decision-making? / Motivational Monday (19:33)! On the show: Laiming, Steve Hatherly & Fei Fei

Most of us don't remember the first few years of our lives, but the very early stage matters in more ways than we think for a person's growth. While most parents in urban areas, better informed and having received good education themselves, invest considerable efforts in early-stage childcare, the same cannot be said for parents who must leave their children behind in rural areas (to work in the cities). What can be done to narrow the urban-rural gap in early-stage childcare? On the show: Laiming, Steve Hatherly & Fei Fei

Round Table's Happy Place! / Your typical drama plotline might see a CEO falling for the girl next door. But now? CEO falls for grandma next door? Elderly love stories are officially a thing, and they're not just for the older crowd. Young folks are binge-watching these silver-haired love stories, and honestly, who can blame them? What's behind this cross-generational obsession, and is there any connection to the silver-haired economy (11:36)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Yushan

When you order your food do you think about the cleanliness of the kitchen that food came from? Now the person delivering your food is not just a courier but also a food safety watchdog. In China, some cities are empowering food delivery riders to act as food safety inspectors. They see things most of us never will, and their reports could be the difference between a clean kitchen and a health hazard. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Yushan

Heart to Heart - please send your audio questions to roundtablepodcast@qq.com./ Some gyms feel like you're walking into a gladiator arena—sweat flying, muscles bulging, and trainers practically screaming at you to "give me ten more!" But a new trendy gym is suggesting you only exercise for a few minutes while wearing your work clothes! Do micro workouts actually work or is this just a gimmick (12:42)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

Today's young adults claim they are constantly exhausted. Is it simply that the "tired generation" is lazy or entitled, or is there something bigger at play? We dig a little deeper to see what's really going on with Gen Z. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

Have you ever wished you could take stunning wedding photos in a dream location without the hassle of traveling? It's now possible with AI-powered photo generators and it's taking over social media in China. But will we lose the magic of traditional photography? / Maybe injecting a little spontaneity into your day can turn your life from predictable to exciting (16:13). On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

Do you remember your favorite and least favorite subjects from school days? Mathematics could be the answer to both. Now, what if I told you that some people's struggle with math isn't due to a lack of practice and that doctors are available to help with math-phobia. Are there more to learning challenges than we realize? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

Have you noticed more big restaurant chains popping up around your local neighborhood? This trend is shaking up the community dining scene as small shops face stiff competition. What's driving these changes and how does it impact both customers and business owners? / Silent Disco is bringing joy and connection around the world (18:38). On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Li Yi

How was your National Day holiday? Whether you were out exploring or enjoying a staycation, this week was a busy one across China. From bustling tourist hotspots to hidden gems, millions enjoyed the break to its fullest. Today, we check out the major highlights from the tourism scene, and get some tips on how to smoothly transition back into work mode. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Li Yi

From dusty textbooks and wooden desks to online learning and AI tutors, the way China learns has come a long way. So, whether you're a star student or prefer the back row, get ready for an education in how China's classrooms have kept pace with the country's rapid growth. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Yushan

In this episode, we focus on something we all know and love—play. From the toys of yesterday to the AR, VR, XR… kinds of e-sports of today, the way Chinese people play has evolved alongside the country's incredible social and economic development. On the show: Niu Honglin, Laiming & Yushun

Do you remember the sound of a pager buzzing on your belt, or the thrill of sending your first text message? From the beep of early telegraphs to the notification chime of smartphones, China's communication tools have transformed rapidly over the last few decades. In this episode, let's listen to the sounds of the past and reflect on how far we've come. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

Today, we're thrilled to bring you our latest installment, where we dive into the vibrant world of China's cultural and entertainment sector—a true cultural trifecta of movies, performing arts, and museum visits. Over the past 75 years, these elements have evolved, reflecting broader shifts in society. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan

In this episode, we travel through the years of transportation in China. From childhood bicycles to modern day high-speed rail, let's see how the way we get around has changed over the course of time. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Li Yi

Graduation is an exciting time, but for many university couples, it's also a crossroad. As the diploma is handed over, so are decisions about whether to stay together or part ways. Does growing up mean growing apart? / Motivational Monday (18:29)! On the show: Niu Honglin, Laiming & Li Yi

From steamy street food to historical landmarks, we've all got reasons why our hometown is the place to visit. These days, more and more young people in China are eager to promote the place they come from! So buckle up as we take a trip through the eyes of the locals, uncovering what makes others' hometowns your perfect travel destinations. On the show: Niu Honglin, Laiming & Li Yi

Instead of another ho-hum city vacation, why not plan your next trip around the weather! From stargazing under a meteor shower, to enjoying a stunning snowfall, why not give mother nature a chance to be your tour guide?/ RoundTable's Happy Place (19:34)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun.

Beijing just hosted the Global Sustainable Transport Forum, from September 25 to 26. With newly-released reports, big plans, and game-changing ideas on the table, the event brought global leaders together to tackle the future of eco-friendly transportation. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun.

In the movie 'The Devil Wears Prada,' we all cringed when Anne Hathaway's character had to drop everything to get her boss lunch, even though it had nothing to do with her job. But that's only in the movies, right? Wrong. In real life, should employees be expected to handle personal errands for their boss? The answer should be clear—this isn't part of the job. One boss in China just got fired for crossing that very line. Where do you stand on this? / Can an AI boyfriend "cheat" (18:18)? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Ding Heng

Alright, gamers! Black Myth: Wukong is straight-up shaking up the gaming world! But the original soundtrack? Absolute fire. We're talking music that slaps harder than Sun Wukong's legendary staff! We take a look at how the field of video game music has exploded and why Wukong is at the forefront of this sonic revolution! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Ding Heng

Imagine yourself breaking out in a sweat to catch a flight but the passenger in front of you at the security checkpoint is taking his or her time laying out personal belongings in the tray in pretty patterns that you are in no mood to appreciate. What would you do? Would you call the airport authorities to intervene? / What can we learn from special tricks to engage children in a conversation (13:57)? On the show: Laiming, Steve Hatherly & Li Yi

The search never ends for ways to get better grades. Lately, sales of AI-powered educational devices have picked up in the Chinese market. Many parents are willing to spend good money on smart tablets or watches, which they believe will give their children a leg up. Let's find out whether AI educational devices will rise to change the landscape of education and related industries. On the show: Laiming, Steve Hatherly & Li Yi

Even professional chefs will sometimes hit a creative block. And as a result, some are turning to something unexpected for inspiration—Artificial Intelligence! Today, we're diving into the fun world of AI recipes—some are zany, but some sound surprisingly tasty! Also, how else is AI influencing restaurants and supermarkets? / Is pet perfume safe (18:38)? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Li Yi

Ride-sharing in China, a paid version of hitchhiking, is on the rise, but so is the chaos. Conflicts are brewing between drivers and passengers with no clear end in sight. What are they fighting about, and what are some possible solutions? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Li Yi

KTVs used to be the go-to place for belting out tunes, but now, they're the hottest study place for Gen Z. How did these singing rooms suddenly turn into a place to learn? / Motivational Monday (15:18)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

Does AI have no limits? It is now being used in the creation of ultra-short dramas. Now, entire series, everything from the visuals to the plot twists, are crafted by AI. Could feature films be next? Is the future of entertainment already in AI's hands? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

Round Table's Happy Place! /Has the smartwatch evolved from an accessory to necessity? With new releases from Apple and Huawei, what's next in the race to dominate your wrist (11:40)? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

World Alzheimer's Day reminds us of the tremendous challenges faced by patients and their caregivers. Join us to learn about this terrible affliction that affects millions around the globe. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

Given the growing conversation around hair loss on Chinese social media, hair loss seems to be on everyone's mind. What are the available options? And should we try to address the emotional difficulty of dealing with hair loss as well? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan

As China opens its doors to fully foreign-owned hospitals, what does this mean for your healthcare choices? Join us to explore the implications for quality, access, and competition in our medical landscape! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan

A secondary school in East China's Hangzhou city recently held a unique parent-teacher meeting where fathers were required to attend. The school also drafted and issued a ten-point MOU outlining the responsibilities of good fathers. This inspired a discussion about a father's role in parenting. / Heart to Heart - please send your audio questions to roundtablepodcast@qq.com (20:21). On the show: Laiming, Niu Honglin & Steve Hatherly

Shanghai, Zhejiang, and five other provinces and municipalities in east, central, and southwest China have been called out for the ways in which construction waste is handled in their jurisdiction. China has seen decades of rapid urbanization and countless construction projects over the past several decades, but it is not too late to adopt tougher oversight on waste processing and management. On the show: Laiming, Niu Honglin & Steve Hatherly

We all have that friend who thinks 'fashionably late' means showing up half an hour after the fun starts! But what if you could outsmart their chronic lateness by giving them an earlier time? Is it justifiable to lie about the start time to ensure they arrive when everyone else does? / Job interview attire. Dress down or suit up (19:15)? On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Li Yi

Full Moon, Full Hearts! Join us this Mid-Autumn Festival for talk on tasty mooncakes and some good holiday vibes. Let's make this celebration pop! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Li Yi

Are 'female-only' parking spaces a smart safety solution or a step in the wrong direction in terms of gender equality? Tune in to our debate and discover global reactions! / Motivational Monday (17:37)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Li Yi

From construction to traffic sounds, noise pollution affects our health in more ways than you think! Let's find out how China is turning down the volume and turning up the quality of life. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Li Yi

Round Table's Happy Place! / China's navigation apps are WAY more than just maps—they help you review restaurants, book tickets, and even plan your whole day. But is it all a little too much? We explore how digital map apps are changing the game, and why they're not winning everyone over (10:02). On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Gao Junya

From salons to skincare, men around the globe are upping their self-care game! We ask what it means to be a man in 2024, and dig into some of the numbers behind this recent change in men's beauty behavior. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Gao Junya

What's going on with our drinks these days? First, they took the sugar out, and now it looks like caffeine is on the chopping block. In China, wellness water is replacing your daily coffee buzz. Find out how caffeine went from hero to zero! / Eyebrows—through thick and thin, they've been shaping our faces and our beauty ideals for centuries. What's hot now, and what were the trends in the past (16:00)? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Yushan

The 2024 China International Fair for Trade in Services highlights the growing influence of new quality productive forces in shaping the service trade industry. From digital education tools to sustainable environmental practices, these innovations are driving growth in key sectors such as tourism, culture, and education. How do these developments empower the service trade and transform the world around us? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Yushan

Pick up the phone, call someone, and have a chat. Pretty standard procedure, correct? Not anymore! Nowadays, young people are NOT answering the phone. Period. Why do younger generations seem allergic to phone calls, and how is this affecting communication? / A playful twist on office name tags (20:11). On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

Chinese food and beverage is spicing up the global scene! From hotpot to milk tea, these brands are going international—let's see if they're cooking up success or biting off more than they can chew. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushun

Could our desire to see endangered landmarks before they disappear be harming them in the process? The fear that these beautiful destinations are disappearing is driving up tourist numbers. We discuss the impact of 'last chance tourism' on the preservation of our world's most vulnerable treasures. / Bag charms are back in fashion (19:43). On the show: Heyang, Li Yi & Steve Hatherly