Best Zhongguo Podcasts (2025)

1
#212 Fast Food, Tough Job 外卖骑手的生活 6:38

7d ago6:38

6:38

Today's Episode: In this episode, we talk about JD.com’s surprise entry into China’s food delivery world, and what life is really like for the riders behind your takeaway. From “ghost kitchens” to low pay and long hours — it’s more than just fast food. Membership Preview: In next episode of MaoMi Chinese+, we’ll learn how to talk about takeaway in …

1
#211 The Many Meanings of 点 in Chinese 说说“点” 6:19

14d ago6:19

6:19

Today's Episode: What makes you laugh, cry, or suddenly feel exhausted? In this episode, discover the emotional power of the tiny word “点” and how it connects to your everyday feelings in Chinese! Membership Preview: In next MaoMi Chinese+ episode, we dig into the unspoken world of 潜台词 — when people say one thing but mean something else. From polit…

1
#210 Wild Louie 六一“野”了 5:36

21d ago5:36

5:36

Today's Episode: Is our mascot cat Louie turning into a wild animal?! From pasty shops to sunbathing all day, he’s living his best countryside life. But… should we be worried? Let’s find out together! Membership Preview: Ready to chase your dreams? In our next episode of MaoMi Chinese+, hear how teacher Gu Shaoqiang quit her job to explore the worl…

1
#209 The Happiest Supermarket in China 中国最幸福的超市 6:49

28d ago6:49

6:49

Today's Episode: Have you ever seen people fly across the country just to visit a supermarket? Pang Dong Lai in Henan has become a viral sensation — find out why this heartwarming store is winning everyone over! Membership Preview: Want to know what “人情味” really means? In this week’s MaoMi Chinese+, we break it down with the heartwarming story of P…

1
#208 ‘Dad Flavour’ VS ‘Mum Flavour’ 爹味和妈味 6:18

1M ago6:18

6:18

Today's Episode: In this episode of MaoMi Chinese, we dive into two fun and quirky expressions that are taking Chinese social media by storm. Tune in to learn what they mean and how to use them in everyday conversation! Membership Preview: Ever met someone who’s always giving unsolicited advice? 🤔 In 29th April 's premium episode, we will dive into…

1
#207 Why Do Chinese People Ask Personal Questions? 为什么中国人喜欢问隐私？ 5:44

1M ago5:44

5:44

Today's Episode: The Chinese government wants people to lose weight—seriously! In this episode of MaoMi Chinese, we talk about why more people in China are getting fat, and why the government is stepping in. Membership Preview: Not all questions are rude in China! In our MaoMi Chinese+ on 22nd April, we explore the surprising topics that are totall…

1
#206 The Chinese Government Wants People to Lose Weight 政府喊你减肥 5:11

2M ago5:11

5:11

The Chinese government wants people to lose weight—seriously! In this episode of MaoMi Chinese, we talk about why more people in China are getting fat, and why the government is stepping in. Membership preview: In our next MaoMi Chinese+ episode on 15th April, we dive into interesting Chinese expressions related to gaining weight, living a relaxed …

1
#205 Second-Hand Lifestyle 二手生活 5:45

2M ago5:45

5:45

Why are more people in China falling in love with second-hand living? From vintage fashion to eco-friendly choices, discover why buying used is becoming the smart, stylish way to shop. Let’s talk second-hand life! Membership preview: In our next MaoMi Chinese+ episode on 8th April, we dive into three vivid idioms with “hand”: sneakily taking things…

1
#204 Surviving an Earthquake: 劫后余生 5:55

2M ago5:55

5:55

A powerful earthquake shook Myanmar, even reaching Bangkok. In that moment, I truly felt 劫后余生—the relief of surviving a disaster. But this phrase isn’t just about earthquakes or accidents. Join me as we explore its meaning through real-life stories and examples! Membership preview: In our next MaoMi Chinese+ episode on 1st April, we dive into "tofu…

1
#203 打卡拍照 “Checking In” and Taking Photos 5:02

2M ago5:02

5:02

Why do so many Chinese people love taking photos when they travel or eat? In this episode, we explore "checking in and taking photos" —why it’s so popular, where people go for the perfect shot, and whether it’s about memories or just social media. Tune in now! Membership preview: In our next MaoMi Chinese+ episode on 25th March, we’ll dive into a f…

1
#202 Floating in the City 那些漂在大城市的年轻人 5:29

3M ago5:29

5:29

Every year, millions of young Chinese leave their hometowns to chase dreams in mega cities like Beijing and Shanghai. No family, no home, just hard work and uncertainty. Why do they do it? And what is life really like as a "漂" (drifter)? Let’s dive into their world! Membership preview: Want to know what makes Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen,…

1
#201 From a Security Guard to a Lawyer 从保安到律师 7:27

3M ago7:27

7:27

From security guard to lawyer—Liu Zheng spent 10 years chasing his dream, failing five times before finally passing China’s toughest law exam. What kept him going? Tune in for his inspiring story! Membership preview: Studying for years with no breaks, no fun—just pure dedication. Sounds intense? In China, this mindset has shaped history! Why do peo…

1
#200 The Grass is Always Greener on the Other Side 国外的月亮比较圆 5:37

3M ago5:37

5:37

Have you ever felt that life somewhere else must be better—more exciting, easier, or happier? Many people believe that what they don’t have is always better. But is that really true? Today, let’s explore why we often think this way and what’s behind it! Membership preview: The moon isn’t just in the sky—it’s hidden in Chinese words too! On Tuesday …

1
#199 Why Do Chinese People Cover Their Belly Button While Sleeping? 睡觉盖肚脐 4:33

3M ago4:33

4:33

Have you ever heard that sleeping with your belly button uncovered might make you sick? In China, parents and grandparents always remind kids to cover their belly button while sleeping—but why? Is it just an old superstition, or is there some truth behind it? In this episode, we’ll explore this adorable and uniquely Chinese habit, the cultural beli…

1
#198 From Doctor To 10-Billion-Box-Office-Film Director 哪吒导演的故事 6:28

4M ago6:28

6:28

He studied medicine for seven years, became a doctor, then gave it all up to chase his animation dream. Crazy? Maybe. But it led to Ne Zha, one of China’s biggest films. Let’s dive into Jiaozi’s story! Membership preview: In China, some people get married not for love, but for other reasons. This is called "Xínghūn" (formality marriage). In the pas…

1
#197 Nezha: The Film Earned 7.5 Billion Box Office 哪吒电影 7:06

4M ago7:06

7:06

Nezha: a rebellious "demon child" who defied fate and became a hero. Why do millions love his story? Let’s dive into the hit Nezha films and the legend that continues to inspire! Membership preview: Want to understand Chinese memes? In the episode of MaoMi Chinese+ we are going to released on Tuesday 11th February, we explore viral TV interviews li…

1
#196 AI DeepSeek AI改变生活Untitled Episode 5:47

4M ago5:47

5:47

AI is booming in China, and today we’re diving into DeepSeek—China’s rising AI star. How does it compare to ChatGPT? Can it change our lives? Let’s explore this exciting tech in simple Chinese, with key vocab to boost your learning. Let’s go! Support MaoMi & Get exclusive to premium content! https://www.buzzsprout.com/1426696/subscribe ↗️ Transcrip…

1
#195 Gift-Giving Taboos 送礼的禁忌 4:50

4M ago4:50

4:50

Lunar New Year’s around the corner, so today we’re spilling the tea on gift-giving in China—what’s a hit, what’s a miss, and what’s downright taboo! Membership preview: On Tuesday 28th January MaoMi Chinese+, we’re diving into a thought-provoking topic: why do some people choose not to return to their hometown for Chinese New Year? From family pres…

1
#194 TikTok Refugees and RedNote TikTok难民和小红书 7:15

4M ago7:15

7:15

Discover why American "TikTok refugees" are flocking to the Chinese app Xiaohongshu! In this episode, we explore their experiences, cultural surprises, and the funny moments of connecting with Chinese users. Tune in for language tips and cultural insights! Membership preview: On Tuesday 21st January MaoMi Chinese+, we dive into what American TikTok…

1
#193 Yong Chinese Punk Health 中国年轻人的朋克养生 6:28

5M ago6:28

6:28

Discover the intriguing world of "health preservation" in China! From its cultural roots in Chinese medicine to the quirky "punk health care" trend among young people, explore how modern lifestyles blend tradition and creativity in surprising ways. Membership preview: On Tuesday 14th January, we will release a MaoMi Chinese+ episode, in which we di…

1
#192 Talking About Healthy Habits in Chinese 健康生活 5:56

5M ago5:56

5:56

About this episode: In this episode of MaoMi Chinese, we dive into the secrets of healthy living inspired by Chinese culture. From simple habits to timeless wisdom, discover how to embrace a healthier lifestyle while practising your Chinese! Membership preview: On Tuesday 7th January, we will uncover how Chinese culture views drugs and why China en…

1
#191 Regrets and Growth from 2024 遗憾和成长 5:32

5M ago5:32

5:32

About this episode: In this episode of MaoMi Chinese, we reflect on 2024 and explore the regrets that shape our lives. From missed goals to cherished moments, we share stories and discuss how to turn regrets into opportunities for growth. Let’s look ahead to a better 2025 together! Membership preview: In this special New Year’s Eve episode of MaoMi…

1
#190 The Mysterious Corpse Herders 赶尸人 4:12

5M ago4:12

4:12

About this episode: Have you heard of the mysterious job called 赶尸人, or "corpse herder"? In ancient China, these people had a unique role—helping the deceased "return home." In today’s episode, we’ll uncover the truth behind this strange job and why it reflects deep Chinese traditions. Don’t miss it! Membership preview: In Christmas Eve MaoMi Chine…

1
#189 The ‘Scariest’ Chinese food? 最吓人的中国菜 6:25

6M ago6:25

6:25

About this episode: Chicken feet, century eggs, pork intestines, and duck blood—scary or tasty? 🤔 In this episode, we explore why Chinese people love these “strange” dishes, the culture of 物尽其用 , and their surprising flavours. Dare to try? 🐔🥚🍲 Tune in now! Support MaoMi & Get exclusive to premium content! https://www.buzzsprout.com/1426696/subscrib…

1
#188 A Farewell from a Legendary Writer 再见！琼瑶阿姨 6:18

6M ago6:18

6:18

About this episode: In this episode of MaoMi Chinese, we discuss the life and legacy of beloved writer Qiong Yao, her decision to choose euthanasia, and the emotional impact of her passing. Tune in for an insightful conversation! Membership preview: In Tuesday’s (10th December) MaoMi Chinese+, we will dive into the mystery of encrypted Chinese Goog…

1
#187 How an 8 million Influencer Got Canceled by Gen Z 网红惹怒00后 5:25

6M ago5:25

5:25

About this episode: In this episode, we dive into the drama surrounding popular influencer Yang Maoyue! Find out how his comments on job struggles sparked outrage among young people and learn some fun Chinese phrases along the way! Membership preview: In Tuesday’s (3rd December) MaoMi Chinese+, we're exploring one of the most romantic and poetic ph…

1
#186 Exploring China's Divorce Shows离婚节目在中国大受欢迎 6:21

6M ago6:21

6:21

About this episode: In this episode, we dive into Goodbye My Love, the Chinese reality show everyone’s talking about! It’s raw, emotional, and packed with lessons on love and heartbreak. Why are divorce shows so popular in China? Tune in to uncover the drama and social shifts behind the hype! Membership preview: In Tuesday’s (26th November) MaoMi C…

1
#185 How a Hollywood Star’s Son Became a Chinese Prodigy好莱坞影后的儿子说流利中文 7:15

7M ago7:15

7:15

About this episode: Did you know Rosamund Pike’s son is a Chinese Bridge champion at just 12 years old? In this episode, we explore how this Hollywood star’s family embraced Chinese culture and language, and hear the young prodigy’s fluent Chinese. Don’t miss his inspiring journey! Membership preview: In Tuesday’s (19th November) MaoMi Chinese+, we…

1
#184 Food Travelling in China 美食旅游 6:11

7M ago6:11

6:11

About this episode: Do you travel for food? In China, local dishes inspire people to journey far and wide, from spicy málàtàng in Gansu to sizzling barbecue in Shandong. Join us as we explore why food is a top reason for travel in China! Membership preview: Ever felt like it’s too late to fix something? Think again! On Tuesday 5th October, we’re ex…

1
#183 Understanding the confusing polite expressions 客套话 6:10

7M ago6:10

6:10

About this episode: In this episode of MaoMi Chinese, we uncover the world of kètàohuà, those unique Chinese polite expressions that can leave even advanced learners scratching their heads. Why do Chinese people ask if you've eaten as a greeting? And what do you say when someone humbly downplays an impressive meal? Tune in to learn how these phrase…

1
#182 Is working from home feasible in China? 线上办公可行吗？ 7:02

7M ago7:02

7:02

About this episode: In this episode of MaoMi Chinese, we explore a bold experiment by an Israeli boss in Beijing who sent all his employees home to work online. Did productivity take a hit or soar to new heights? Tune in to find out how ditching the office life is changing the way people work! Membership preview: In next week's premium episode on T…

1
#181 Her Economy in China 中国的女性经济 6:21

8M ago6:21

6:21

About this episode: Some new shops are coming up quickly in China. Women-only Saloons, women-only hotel, women-only gym… Seems like the Her Economic in China is growing fast, but in reality how is that? Find out more in today’s podcast! Membership preview: Sometimes, you need to be sarcastic to answer some silly questions. On Tuesday October 15th, …

1
#180 The Journey from a Troubled Marriage to Freedom 55岁离家出走阿姨的现状 8:51

8M ago8:51

8:51

Today’s Episode In January 2021, MaoMi Chinese released its 25th episode, introducing the journey of Su Min, a retired Chinese housewife who left her marriage behind to travel around China. Now, five years into her journey and having turned 60, her story has even been made into a film this year. How is she doing now? Find out more in today's episod…

1
#179 The Chinese doctor who got stabbed by his patient 陶勇医生 7:17

8M ago7:17

7:17

Today’s Episode In 2020, an ophthalmologist was stabbed in a hospital by one of his patients. He almost lost his life, and his left hand was completely disabled, meaning he might never have been able to perform surgery again. This incident shocked the entire nation. What happened to this doctor, and how is he now? Find out in today's podcast! Membe…

1
#178 ¥9.9 Coffee taking over Chinese market 9.9元咖啡统治市场 6:30

9M ago6:30

6:30

Today’s Episode We’re diving into the most popular café in China—Luckin Coffee. With over 20,000 Luckin shops across the country, it has far surpassed Starbucks. What's the secret behind their success? Find out more in today's episode! Membership Preview Have you ever been really passionate about something, only to have that enthusiasm fade quickly…

1
#177 A British Man Worked then Quit from Chinese Mega Company 英国人的大厂打工记 8:23

9M ago8:23

8:23

Today’s Episode: Jack, from the UK, worked at a Chinese mega-company for two years. In China, these companies are often referred to as 'mega factories.' Jack shared photos on Chinese social medias that captured his life before, during, and after his time at the company, highlighting the dramatic changes he experienced. Tune in to discover more abou…

1
#176 Mistress Deterrence Specialist 小三劝退师 6:48

9M ago6:48

6:48

Today’s Episode: We’re diving into an eye-catching new profession emerging in China: the Mistress Deterrence Specialist. This controversial role has sparked heated debate. Tune in to today’s episode! Membership Preview: Ever been disappointed by a TV show that starts off strong but falls flat at the end? On Tuesday, 3rd September, we’re dropping a …

1
#175 Toxic Fan Groups 有毒的饭圈 7:05

10M ago7:05

7:05

Breaking into a celebrity's house, stalking a pop singer, arguing with others who dislike an actor… These are the actions of what’s known as a 'Fans Group.' They are passionate, but sometimes they can also be toxic. In this episode, we explore the world of 饭圈 (Fans Group) in China—a community that evokes both love and hate. Membership Preview On Tu…

1
#174 The Oldest Olympic Ping Pong Player 年龄最大的乒乓球运动员 7:25

10M ago7:25

7:25

Support MaoMi & Get exclusive to premium content! https://www.buzzsprout.com/1426696/subscribe↗️ Transcript and translation are available on https://maomichinese.com Interested in any topics? leave me a message on: https://maomichinese.com or https://www.instagram.com/maomichinese/?hl=en Text me what you think :) Support the Show. Text me what you …

1
#173 Chinese people cannot retire until…? 延迟退休 7:00

10M ago7:00

7:00

"So, I might have to work with my grandchildren." This might not be a joke because China is likely to delay the retirement age. Find out how people respond to that in today's episode! Membership Preview On Tuesday, July 30th, there will be a premium episode for members. It will be a mini lesson about a Chinese idiom saying ‘slacking off in work’. W…

1
#172 Old Money? New Money? 不同的有钱人 8:49

11M ago8:49

8:49

Yes, there are many rich people in the world and we actually use different words to refer to various types of rich people, for example, old money and new money. How do we say it in Chinese? Find out more in today's episode! Support MaoMi & Get exclusive to premium content! https://www.buzzsprout.com/1426696/subscribe↗️ Transcript and translation ar…

1
#171 Taking a driverless taxi in China 在中国坐无人驾驶出租车 7:01

11M ago7:01

7:01

In a city called Wuhan in China, people can take driverless taxis. There are about 1,000 driverless taxis in the city, and they have provided 500 million rides. However, this is very controversial and has stirred significant debate across China. Find out more in today's episode! Membership Preview: On Tuesday, July 16th, there will be a premium epi…

1
#170 How to make the most of China 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit 144小时过境免签怎么玩？ 9:19

11M ago9:19

9:19

Lots of videos of travelling to China have gone viral on TikTok. Many travellers enter China using the 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit. What exactly is this policy and how to make good use of it if you want to travel to China? Find out more in today's episode! On Tuesday 9th July, another premium episode will be released to members, giving tips on trave…

1
#169 The barista who attacked his customer in China 一个疯了的咖啡师 6:21

11M ago6:21

6:21

How can a job make people crazy? This episode is sponsored by Maayot Chinese, an online Chinese school which offers regular authentic input: https://www.maayot.com Support MaoMi & Get exclusive to premium content! https://www.buzzsprout.com/1426696/subscribe↗️ Transcript and translation are available on https://maomichinese.com Interested in any to…

1
#168 A new way of saving money in China 省钱新方法 5:25

11M ago5:25

5:25

It seems like nowadays more and more people are keen on saving money! Do you know there are some powerful apps and methods to save your living cost in China? Find out more in today's episode! This episode is sponsored by Maayot Chinese, an online Chinese school which offers regular authentic input: https://www.maayot.com Support MaoMi & Get exclusi…

1
#167 Every type of ‘friend’ in Chinese 说说朋友 7:08

12M ago7:08

7:08

We don't necessarily need to have many friends, but we must have friends! There are many types of friends (fair-weather friends, besties, close friends, and even friends with benefit). How to say them in Chinese? Check it out in today's episode! This episode is sponsored by Maayot Chinese, an online Chinese school which offers you regular authentic…

1
#166 A fate-deciding exam 高考 9:46

12M ago9:46

9:46

Almost every Chinese student has to face Gaokao at least once. This is an annual university-entrance exam. It's tightly connected to students' career and even future life. How do Chinese people feel about Gaokao? Is it an impartial exam? Today let's find out more about GaoKao. This episode is sponsored by Maayot Chinese, an online Chinese school wh…

1
#165 Top secrets from a good Chinese learner (Interview) 17:49

12M ago17:49

17:49

I am very happy to have my friend Benoit to be the guest today. He has been a super hard-working Chinese learner for long, and also established an online Chinese school. He will share his learning journey and his way of effective learning. In the MaoMi Chinese+tomorrow, he will also share his interesting experience of living in China. Find out more…

1
#164 Wolf culture in Chinese workplace 狼性文化 6:54

1y ago6:54

6:54

The VP of Baidu in China once said, 'I am not the mother-in-law of my employees, so why would I care about their families?' This statement stirred up anger among almost all working people in China. What is workplace culture like in China? Let's discuss it today. Support MaoMi & Get exclusive to premium content! https://www.buzzsprout.com/1426696/su…

1
#163 Stop the Bullying Style Education! 不要再霸凌式教育孩子了！ 7:11

1y ago7:11

7:11

Recently, I saw a video that deeply saddened me. In the video, there's a person who claims to be an education expert. In a child's home, she instructed the child to smash all of his toys. This expert said it was for the child's own good, so that he could focus on studying. Her video angered many Chinese netizens, and everyone said, "Stop bullying s…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Zhongguo Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Quick Reference Guide