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MaoMi Chinese

MaoMi Chinese is a podcast and website for Mandarin Chinese learners made by a professional Chinese teacher as well as a Chinese learner - to get the best of both perspectives. We share tips and provide listening practice for intermediate+ learners. We make your learning more enjoyable by engaging you with intercultural resources across various topics.

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#270
October 24 · 8 min
#270 One Bad Review, One Broken Life? 一条差评，一条生命
Today's Episode: Can one bad review change someone’s life? In this episode, we explore the heartbreaking story of Hu Ermei, a street food seller in China who faced a wave of online criticism. What happened, and how can online comments take away this Chinese lady’s life? Membership Preview: How much damage can one negative review cause? In next episode of MaoMi. Chinese+, we revisit the heartbreaking story of Hu Ermei, a Chinese street food seller whose story sparked heated discussions about cyberbullying. Listen to real news headlines and discover authentic Chinese expressions used by the media to report this incident. Learn how to understand news like a native speaker, one headline at a time! Support MaoMi & Get exclusive to premium content! https://maomichinese.com/register/ Transcript and translations 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 *Please note that Spotify does not support the membership program. Text me what you think :) Support the show Text me what you think :) Support the show
#269
October 17 · 6 min
#269 Why Chinese Young People Joining Senior’s Tours? 中国年轻人爱上老年旅行团
Today's Episode: Why are young people in China joining tour groups for older travellers? Is it the cheap price or the friendly aunties and uncles? Find out why this unusual travel trend is taking off! Membership Preview: Planning a trip ro China? Before you pack your bags, there are a few things you should know! From payment apps and internet access to local customs and common tourist traps, we’ll share top tips for traveling in China. Find out more in next MaoMi Chinese+ episode! Support MaoMi & Get exclusive to premium content! https://maomichinese.com/register/ Transcript and translations 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 *Please note that Spotify does not support the membership program. Text me what you think :) Support the show Text me what you think :) Support the show
#268
September 13 · 5 min
#268 Why Did a “Terrible Film” Become So Popular? 为什么人们看《牛来》？
Today's Episode: A film that everyone says is terrible, so why are more and more people paying to watch it? Recently, a Chinese animated film called Niulai suddenly became a hot topic online, partly because so many people thought it was a “terrible film”. Some people went to the cinema just to see how bad it really was, while others felt that there simply weren’t many good films to watch. So why did Niulai become so popular? In this episode, we take a closer look at the film and the strange story behind its sudden popularity. Membership Preview: What does “牛” really mean? Why can you say someone is 很牛, talk about 牛脾气 or 牛市, and even say 吹牛? In this MaoMi Chinese+ episode, we explore the many different meanings and expressions connected to this simple character. You may already know “牛” means “cow”, but you might be surprised by how many other ways Chinese speakers use it. A simple character, but lots to discover! Support MaoMi & Get exclusive to premium content! https://maomichinese.com/register/ Transcript and translations 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 *Please note that Spotify does not support the membership program. Text me what you think :) Support the show Text me what you think :) Support the show
#267
August 18 · 5 min
#267 “Pin” the Chinese Way to Save Money 拼多多
Today's Episode: Why do Chinese people love 拼多多? And what does 拼 actually mean? You may have seen this little character everywhere in China. In this episode, we’ll explore how 拼 means bringing people together to save money, and why this simple idea has become such a big part of everyday Chinese life. Membership Preview: Where do Chinese people actually shop online? China has a huge variety of shopping platforms, from bargain hunting to luxury shopping, second-hand goods and social shopping. In next MaoMi Chinese+ episode, we’ll take a quick look at the platforms Chinese people use every day, and discover how online shopping has become part of everyday life in China. Support MaoMi & Get exclusive to premium content! https://maomichinese.com/register/ Transcript and translations 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 *Please note that Spotify does not support the membership program. Text me what you think :) Support the show Text me what you think :) Support the show
#266
August 1 · 7 min
#266 China’s New Maths Stars 中国的数学新星
Today's Episode: Two Chinese mathematicians have just won the Fields Medal, one of the world’s highest honours in mathematics. But in China, people aren’t only celebrating. They’re asking why both researchers found success after going abroad. Let’s explore the news while learning useful Chinese vocabulary! Membership Preview: In next MaoMi Chinese+, we’ll learn even more through real Chinese news headlines! Discover how Chinese media reported this historic achievement, learn useful headline vocabulary, and explore the debate with authentic Chinese that’s both practical and interesting. Support MaoMi & Get exclusive to premium content! https://maomichinese.com/register/ *Please note that Spotify does not support the membership program. Text me what you think :) Support the show Text me what you think :) Support the show
#265
July 18 · 5 min
#265 Would You Date an AI Robot? 你想和AI机器人谈恋爱吗？
Today's Episode: Would you date an AI robot? A Chinese company has created AI robot companions that can chat, remember your habits, and even become your boyfriend or girlfriend. Some people love the idea, while others think it’s frightening. In this episode, we'll explore this viral story and what it reveals about modern relationships, loneliness, and life in China. Membership Preview: AI is everywhere in China, but not just in robot companions! In next MaoMi Chinese+, we'll explore how people use AI in everyday life, from school and work to shopping and healthcare. You'll also learn useful Chinese words and discover why AI has become such an important part of modern China. Support MaoMi & Get exclusive to premium content! https://maomichinese.com/register/ Transcript and translations 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 *Please note that Spotify does not support the membership program. Text me what you think :) Support the show
#264
July 2 · 5 min
#264 让人又爱又恨的中国足球 The Chinese Football Team: Loved and Hated
Today's Episode: China has over 1.4 billion people, so why has its men's football team struggled for so long? Do Chinese people even like football? And why do fans criticise the national team but still support it? Let's explore the story behind Chinese football. Membership Preview: How do Chinese news headlines report the FIFA World Cup? In next MaoMi Chinese+ episode, we'll learn Chinese through real headlines, explore useful football vocabulary, and discover how just a few Chinese characters can tell a whole story. Support MaoMi & Get exclusive to premium content! https://maomichinese.com/register/ Transcript and translations 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 *Please note that Spotify does not support the membership program. Text me what you think :) Support the show
#263
June 15 · 5 min
#263 The Goose Leg Auntie Scandal 鹅腿阿姨
Today's Episode: A beloved street-food seller. Two of China’s top universities. And one surprising discovery. Students thought they were buying goose legs for years—but were they actually duck legs? In this episode, we explore the story behind China’s famous Goose Leg Auntie and the controversy that has everyone talking. Membership Preview: After the Goose Leg Auntie controversy, let's explore a bigger question: why do Chinese people love street food so much? In next MaoMi Chinese+ episode, we'll discover the culture, vocabulary, and stories behind China's most popular street foods. Support MaoMi & Get exclusive to premium content! https://www.buzzsprout.com/1426696/subscribe ↗️ Transcript and translations 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 *Please note that Spotify does not support the membership program. Text me what you think :) Support the show
#262
June 1 · 6 min
#262 China's Electric Car Boom 中国电车
Today's Episode: If you haven't been to China for a few years, you might be surprised by what you see on the roads: electric cars everywhere! How did this happen? And why are so many Chinese people choosing EVs over petrol cars? Let's find out. Membership Preview: You know 电 means "electricity", but in Chinese, 电 is much more than that! In next week's MaoMi Chinese+, we'll explore some fun and useful expressions with 电 and discover how native speakers use them in everyday conversations. Some meanings might shock you! Support MaoMi & Get exclusive to premium content! https://www.buzzsprout.com/1426696/subscribe ↗️ Transcript and translations 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 *Please note that Spotify does not support the membership program. Text me what you think :) Support the show
#261
May 24 · 5 min
#261 中国和毒品 Drugs in China
Today's Episode: Why is it almost impossible to see drugs in China? Why do many Chinese people hate drugs so much? In this episode, we’ll talk about cannabis, the Opium War, strict Chinese laws, and the big cultural difference between China and the West. Let’s learn Chinese through real culture and history! Membership Preview: In next MaoMi Chinese+ episode, we’ll explore how Chinese people use “毒” in real life. Not just for drugs, but for personality, emotions, comments, and everyday situations. Some expressions are funny, some are dark, and some are surprisingly brutal! Support MaoMi & Get exclusive to premium content! https://www.buzzsprout.com/1426696/subscribe ↗️ Transcript and translations 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 *Please note that Spotify does not support the membership program. Text me what you think :) Support the show
#260
May 17 · 5 min
#260 特朗普在中国的“认真模式” Trump’s “Serious Mode” in China
Today's Episode: Trump visited China, and Chinese netizens all noticed the same thing: why did he suddenly become so “serious”? Let’s explore how Chinese people reacted to Trump’s visit while learning natural Chinese along the way! Membership Preview: In next MaoMi Chinese+, we’ll learn Chinese through real news headlines about Trump’s visit to China! Learn useful words, internet slang, and natural expressions through authentic Chinese media. Support MaoMi & Get exclusive to premium content! https://www.buzzsprout.com/1426696/subscribe ↗️ Transcript and translations 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 *Please note that Spotify does not support the membership program. Text me what you think :) Support the show
#259
May 3 · 5 min
#259 Will Our Digital Clone Replace Us? 数字人会取代我们吗?
Today's Episode: AI actors, AI news presenters, even your “digital clone” still working after you leave… Digital humans are changing everything. Convenient or creepy? Let’s explore what’s really happening in China, and what it means for you. Membership Preview: Can AI really feel love, or are we the ones falling for it? Some people say they talk to ChatGPT every day, even treat it like a partner… Why does it feel so real? Let’s explore this surprising trend together. Support MaoMi & Get exclusive to premium content! https://www.buzzsprout.com/1426696/subscribe ↗️ Transcript and translations 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 *Please note that Spotify does not support the membership program. Text me what you think :) Support the show
#258
April 26 · 5 min
#258 Work Buddies in China 上班搭子
Today's Episode: What is a “work buddy” in China, and why are young people obsessed with finding a “dazi”? In this episode, we explore this trendy concept, how it reflects modern life, and why light, low-pressure relationships are becoming so popular today. Membership Preview: Ready to level up your Chinese with “搭”? In next MaoMi Chinese+, we’ll explore how this small word is used in many natural, everyday expressions. With clear examples and guided speaking practice, you’ll learn to use “搭” smoothly and sound more fluent, natural, and confident. Support MaoMi & Get exclusive to premium content! https://www.buzzsprout.com/1426696/subscribe ↗️ Transcript and translations 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 *Please note that Spotify does not support the membership program. Text me what you think :) Support the show
#257
April 12 · 5 min
#257 ‘Sudden Death’ of a Chinese Celebrity 张雪峰猝死
Today's Episode: A shocking story from China: Zhang Xuefeng, a well-known education figure, has died suddenly. In this episode, we look back at his life, his success, and the intense pressure behind it, and ask: what is the real cost of achievement? Membership Preview: In China, reports of “sudden death” among overworked employees are becoming increasingly common, raising serious concern. In next MaoMi Chinese+ episode, we go beyond the headlines to explore why so many workers are collapsing under pressure. Is it overwork culture, constant stress, or ignored warning signs? Let’s uncover what’s really going on. Support MaoMi & Get exclusive to premium content! https://www.buzzsprout.com/1426696/subscribe ↗️ Transcript and translations 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 *Please note that Spotify does not support the membership program. Text me what you think :) Support the show
#256
March 29 · 5 min
#256 One Drop of Blood Solves a Case? The Story of Henry Lee 华人神探李昌钰
Today's Episode: A drop of blood, a strand of hair. Can they really solve a crime? In this episode, we explore the life of Henry Lee, a world-famous Chinese forensic scientist. From a difficult childhood to solving major cases, his story feels like a movie! Membership Preview: In the next MaoMi Chinese+ episode, we listen to 李昌钰 tell his own life story in Chines，from a difficult childhood to becoming a world-famous forensic scientist. We’ll break it down step by step, learn key vocabulary, and help you understand real spoken Chinese with confidence. Support MaoMi & Get exclusive to premium content! https://www.buzzsprout.com/1426696/subscribe ↗️ Transcript and translations 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 *Please note that Spotify does not support the membership program. Text me what you think :) Support the show
#255
March 22 · 4 min
#255 An Annual TV Show that Exposes Bad Products 315晚会
Today's Episode: Have you heard of China’s 3.15 Gala? Do you know why it makes some companies so nervous every year? Today we will explore what it exposes and see how it helps us stay safe as consumers! Membership Preview: In next MaoMi Chinese+, we will dive into this year’s 3.15 Gala even more. Which products got exposed? Fake food, unsafe goods… and more! Tune in to see what to watch out for and learn new words while keeping yourself safe! Support MaoMi & Get exclusive to premium content! https://www.buzzsprout.com/1426696/subscribe ↗️ Transcript and translations 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 *Please note that Spotify does not support the membership program. Text me what you think :) Support the show
#254
March 15 · 5 min
#254 All-Women Repair Team全女维修工
Today's Episode: In China, when something breaks at home, people usually call a shifu — and that shifu is almost always a man. But in Chengdu, a team of women is changing that. They fix lights, appliances and more. Today, let’s talk about the story of the Qiangji Nügong. Membership Preview: You heard the story of the Qiangji Nügong in the MaoMi Chinese episode. But how do they actually speak in real life? In MaoMi Chinese+, we analyse a real interview and help you understand natural spoken Chinese step by step. Support MaoMi & Get exclusive to premium content! https://www.buzzsprout.com/1426696/subscribe ↗️ Transcript and translations 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 *Please note that Spotify does not support the membership program. Text me what you think :) Support the show
#253
March 8 · 7 min
#253 The Hidden Workers of the City 我在北京送快递
Today's Episode: Every day, parcels arrive at our doors as if by magic. But who brings them? In this episode, we explore the popular Chinese book I Deliver Parcels in Beijing, written by a former delivery worker, and discover the hidden stories behind China’s delivery riders. Membership Preview: Every day in China, millions of delivery riders rush through the streets bringing food and parcels to people’s doors. But how much do they really earn? What pressures do they face? In next MaoMi Chinese+ episode, we explore the hidden side of delivery riders’ lives in China. Support MaoMi & Get exclusive to premium content! https://www.buzzsprout.com/1426696/subscribe ↗️ Transcript and translations 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 *Please note that Spotify does not support the membership program. Text me what you think :) Support the show
#252
March 1 · 5 min
#252 Uncle Hanzi 汉字叔叔
Today's Episode: Why would an American IT engineer spend decades studying Chinese characters? In this episode, we explore the story of Richard Sears, better known in China as “Uncle Hanzi”. From a heart attack that changed his life to building a free website that reveals the ancient forms of Chinese characters, his journey is both unexpected and inspiring. If you’ve ever wondered where Chinese characters come from, this episode will change the way you see them. Membership Preview: In next MaoMi Chinese+ episode, we don’t just talk about “Uncle Hanzi”. We break down his real interview clips, analysing his word choices, sentence structures, and the subtle traces of foreign thinking in his Chinese. Where does he sound natural? Learn authentic, living Mandarin through a fascinating voice. Support MaoMi & Get exclusive to premium content! https://www.buzzsprout.com/1426696/subscribe ↗️ Transcript and translations 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 *Please note that Spotify does not support the membership program. Text me what you think :) Support the show
#251
February 22 · 5 min
#251 Kung Fu Robots on Spring Festival Gala 中国春晚的机器人
Today's Episode: Robots performing kung fu on the Spring Festival Gala? 🤖🥋 This year’s Spring Festival Gala amazed some viewers and worried others. In this episode, we explore the robot martial arts show, global reactions, and what it means for the future of technology and humans. Membership Preview: China’s robots are everywhere, delivering food, serving in restaurants, running in parks like robot dogs, and even driving cars by themselves. In next MaoMi Chinese+ episode, we explore China’s fast AI development in simple Chinese. Is it exciting progress, or a little worrying? Let’s talk! Support MaoMi & Get exclusive to premium content! https://www.buzzsprout.com/1426696/subscribe ↗️ Transcript and translations 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 *Please note that Spotify does not support the membership program. Text me what you think :) Support the show

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