Most Chinese learners start with “nǐ hǎo” — but no one actually says that. We break down how native speakers really greet each other, and why using the right phrases makes you sound less like a tourist.

We also go deeper on:

• Why we might flip our podcast intro to help beginners stay engaged

• Life priorities — health, family, work, rest — and how they keep changing

• When to push kids into learning skills (like piano, languages, or acting)

• Confidence, stage fright, and how to stay brave even when you’re scared

This episode mixes Mandarin and English, perfect if you’re learning Chinese and want natural conversation plus real-life topics that make you think.

Listen, learn, and share your thoughts with us at mandarinmonkey.com.

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