In the "Funny or Die" ethos that dominates our online spaces, humor has become a golden ticket, propelling messages far and wide across the digital landscape.  Even the official social media accounts of famous textbooks and renowned educational apps start to publish playful posts and trendy online jokes. / Traditional Jiangxi opera finds new life as university students in China engage in hands-on experiences, from wielding water sleeves to mastering the art of fan dance (18:47). On the show: Niu Honglin, Yushan & Josh Cotterill

Why are educational brands telling 'dad jokes' online?

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 ezfmroundtable@foxmail.com. Let the fun begin!

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Self-service women's clothing stores demonstrate a new concept and trendy practice that seem to suit the needs of many consumers. These shops are being advertised as providing you with carefree and fashionable shopping experiences. But is this just a marketing gimmick, or is there a genuine need behind their existence? Today, we'll examine the fabric of self-service fashion to unravel the threads of necessity versus novelty. / Round Table's Happy Place (18:20)! On the show: Niu Honglin, Li Yi & Josh Cotterill

Less is more? Enjoy the self-service women's stores in China

Imagine walking down a street your ancestors had walked on 200 years ago, still alive with echoes from yesteryears. These historical and cultural blocks have become many tourists’ favorite destinations. Across the globe, from dynastic architectures of China to Victorian houses in San Francisco, efforts are underway to protect these cultural heritage sites. Join us as we explore how these storied lanes are being preserved amid modernization. On the show: Niu Honglin, Li Yi & Josh Cotterill

Historical blocks shine with modern revitalization

Occupational disease, a term that we sometimes use rather casually to describe some of our minor ailments, is actually linked to a more serious matter pertaining to the health and welfare of workers. In China, the country has built, and is trying to improve, a national system for the monitoring and prevention of occupational diseases and hazards. On the show: Laiming, Niu Honglin & Josh Cotterill

China improves occupational disease prevention and control system

Some know Hungary by its history as a part of the Austria-Hungary Empire and its historical role in the First World War. Others may recall the 2014 Wes Anderson film The Grand Budapest Hotel. And, some call it the most western country of the east, but what does that mean? Here is what you need to know about Hungary (13:44)!/ Chinese office workers take to planting fruit plants in the workplace. Why? On the show: Laiming, Niu Honglin & Josh Cotterill

75 years of China-Hungary relationship

Ready to flip tradition on its head? Meet the youths who dare to say, "I Don't do red envelopes at weddings!" A small but mighty group of young folks in Shenzhen challenges the norm of stuffing red envelopes with cash as wedding gifts. / Why multi-brand boutiques struggle to flourish (15:56)? On the show: Heyang, Ding Heng & Josh Cotterill

Why are educational brands telling 'dad jokes' online?

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