Round Table China

Downtown traffic congestion not only slows individuals down on their way to their destinations, but it also negatively impacts air quality. New York City has recently implemented a strategy that many other cities around the world have been utilizing for quite some time. What is congestion pricing, and what difference does it make for the cities that adopt it? / Time Magazine has named two e-readers as the best of 2024 (19:21). On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Laiming

As China confronts a rapidly aging population, it faces significant societal challenges. In response, the concept of "smart home care" is gaining traction. This approach involves utilizing technology to assist elderly individuals in living independently at home. What is the current status of China's population aged over 60, and how can these devices enhance the quality of life for those who use them? On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin & Laiming

Heart to Heart - please send your audio questions to [email protected]. / Across the globe, food unites people, but during the Chinese New Year, it assumes a more profound significance—serving as a language of blessings and a means of connection. From fish to noodles to dumplings, we invite you to explore what makes this celebration so distinctive. And don't forget the gifts! We let you know which ones may NOT be the best choices to offer during the holiday (15:42). On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Fei Fei

With the emergence of a new wave of vocational universities in China, an educational shift is taking place in the country. What are the differences between vocational universities and traditional universities? Both types of institutions are essential, but how do you determine which one is right for you? As vocational universities begin to grant bachelor's degrees and are increasingly recognized as a solution to skills shortages, it is important to explore what makes them unique. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve Hatherly & Fei Fei

As leaders from around the world convene in Davos for the 2025 Winter World Economic Forum, we shine a spotlight on the young changemakers who are rising to address the globe's most complex challenges. We explore how these young talents are bringing forth fresh ideas, bold initiatives, and innovative solutions to pressing issues such as climate change, economic recovery, and sustainable development. On the show: Niu Honglin, Liang Ying (Christy Leung), Outgoing Curator of Global Shapers Community Guangzhou Hub, and Fan Hongyi (Troy), Founder of Curidaosity, Community Champion of Global Shapers Community.

They say two things in life are certain: death and taxes. However, in a world increasingly dominated by automation, should we consider adding robot taxation to this list? Several questions emerge: Who exactly should be taxed? How do we define a robot for tax purposes? And how could the revenue generated from this tax be utilized? / Motivational Monday (17:13). On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly and Yushun.

China is establishing a unified large market, which has the potential to transform the rules of the game for various industries, businesses, and the overall economy. While there are numerous benefits to this initiative, there are also some drawbacks to consider. We explore this significant policy change and its potential impacts. On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly and Yushun.

The notion of parents interfering in your dating life can be quite off-putting, to say the least. However, in China, some parents are turning to dating apps to help their children find love. We discuss the advantages and disadvantages of having mom and dad take charge of your love life. / Round Table's Happy Place (19:09). On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin and Yushan.

Thermal clothing promises to keep us warm in cold weather, but does it truly live up to the hype? We discuss the types of clothing designed to keep you feeling warm and cozy, as well as the "warm economy" during the frigid winter months. On the show: Steve Hatherly, Niu Honglin and Yushan.

"TikTok refugees" are trading in their For You Pages for Xiaohongshu's curated feeds, hoping to find a new digital home. The welcome from Xiaohongshu’s current users has been warm, and it seems the opportunity for new friendships is real. / Should we pay grandparents for childcare (18:22)? On the show: Steve Hatherly, Laiming and Yushan.