Podcast · Learning

MaoMi Chinese

by MaoMi Chinese · English · Learning

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 y

New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 5 min
Latest: 13 Sep 2026
Language: English

Latest episode

13 Sep 2026 · 6 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 s...

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Earlier episodes 29 most recent

E267 · 18 Aug 2026 · 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. I...
E266 · 1 Aug 2026 · 8 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 v...
E265 · 18 Jul 2026 · 6 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 peopl...
E264 · 2 Jul 2026 · 6 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 character...
E263 · 15 Jun 2026 · 6 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, w...
E262 · 1 Jun 2026 · 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 ...
E261 · 24 May 2026 · 6 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 situati...
E260 · 17 May 2026 · 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 premiu...
E259 · 3 May 2026 · 6 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 e...
E258 · 26 Apr 2026 · 6 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”...
E257 · 12 Apr 2026 · 6 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 ...
E256 · 29 Mar 2026 · 6 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, an...
E255 · 22 Mar 2026 · 5 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 premiu...
E254 · 15 Mar 2026 · 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 Ch...
E253 · 8 Mar 2026 · 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 Chine...
E252 · 1 Mar 2026 · 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 Mao...
E251 · 22 Feb 2026 · 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 f...
E250 · 15 Feb 2026 · 6 min
#250 Year of the Horse… or Year of Malfoy?马年和马尔福
Today's Episode: It’s the Year of the Horse… but why is Draco Malfoy suddenly China’s New Year mascot? 🐎✨ In this episode, we explore homophones, internet memes, and how young people mix pop culture with tradition. Let’s find out why it’s the Year of the Ma… and Malfoy! Membership Preview: In next MaoMi Chinese+, we’re exploring lively and powerful expressions with “马”! 🐎 Why does this character appear in so many phrases? What do they really mean, and how can you use them naturally in daily c...
E249 · 8 Feb 2026 · 5 min
#249 All In, Then All Out上头和下头
Today's Episode: Why do we suddenly get obsessed, and then instantly turned off? In this episode, we explore how emotions take over, why attraction can feel overwhelming, and how one small moment can make the feeling disappear. Real examples, simple language, and very real life. Membership Preview: Why can a date start with excitement but end with zero feeling? In next MaoMi Chinese+ episode, we explore the small moments that instantly 下头 — talking too much, bad timing, awkward attitudes, and...
E248 · 1 Feb 2026 · 5 min
#248 When a Story Doesn’t End 章莹颖案
Today's Episode: A name many people in China remember. In this episode of MaoMi Chinese, we gently revisit the case of Zhang Yingying and focus on the parents left behind. A quiet, serious story about loss, love, and what it means to keep going when answers never come. Membership Preview: When the news fades, the parents stay. After the Zhang Yingying case, next MaoMi Chinese+ episode looks at what happens to mothers and fathers who lose their only child in China. A quiet, heavy topic about l...
E247 · 25 Jan 2026 · 5 min
#247 Love You, My Old self. See You Tomorrow.” 爱你老己，明天见
Today's Episode: A simple sentence has taken over Chinese social media: “Love you, old self. See you tomorrow.” Why does it touch so many young people? In this episode, we explore where it came from, what it really means, and why being gentle with yourself matters more than ever. Membership Preview: Why does 老 sometimes mean old, but sometimes mean experienced, close, or even cute? In next MaoMi Chinese+ episode, we unpack one small word with many meanings. You will see how 老 changes feeling ...
E246 · 18 Jan 2026 · 5 min
#246 Chinese Government Started to Manage People’s Weight? 中国开始管理人们体重了？
Today's Episode: Is “losing weight” on your 2026 resolution? In this episode of MaoMi Chinese, we talk about a new policy in Hangzhou where the city begins to manage residents’ body weight. Is it about health, control, or good habits? Let’s explore what this rule means and why it has sparked debate. Membership Preview: In next MaoMi Chinese+, we will look at real Chinese news headlines about Hangzhou’s weight management plan. We will break down simple words, read between the lines, and see ho...
E245 · 11 Jan 2026 · 5 min
#245 The Fastest Nurse in China and Debate about her最快护士和她的争议
Today's Episode: A nurse, a marathon champion, and a big online debate. In this episode of MaoMi Chinese, we talk about Zhang Shuihua, known as “the fastest nurse”. Why did her words after winning a marathon cause so much discussion? Where is the line between work, passion, and fairness to others? Membership Preview: Work–life balance sounds simple, but in China it’s much harder than it looks. After the story of the “fastest nurse”, this episode explores overtime culture, pressure at work, an...
E244 · 4 Jan 2026 · 5 min
#244 Why New Year Resolution fail 新年计划总失败?
Today's Episode: New year, new resolution. Or the same plans that quietly fail? In this episode of MaoMi Chinese, we talk about New Year resolutions: big ambitions, small realities, and why so many plans don’t last. From cooking at home to going to the gym, let’s discuss how to make goals that actually work. Membership Preview: Want to learn Chinese through real TV shows? In next episode of MaoMi Chinese+, we explore Chinese dramas and variety shows from 2025 that learners can actually unders...
E243 · 29 Dec 2025 · 5 min
#243 Walking the Line on Chinese Social Media擦边
Today's Episode: In this episode, we unpack 擦边, content that touches the line but doesn’t cross it. This is also one of the most mentioned word in China 2025! What does it mean, why is it everywhere, and why does it spark debate in China? Membership Preview: Perfect faces, perfect lives, perfect videos, and people are tired. In next MaoMi Chinese+ episode, we will explore 活人感, another 2025’s most talked-about word. Why do Chinese netizens crave “real people” online, and what does 活人感 really m...
21 Dec 2025 · 5 min
#242 Why Chinese old people love tour group? 为什么大爷大妈喜欢旅游团？
Today's Episode: Have you noticed that many Chinese tour groups are full of older people? In this episode, we talk about why 大爷大妈 love group travel, how time, language and safety play a role, and what this says about travel culture in China. Simple Chinese, real life, real culture. Membership Preview: Very cheap group tours can look attractive, but they often come with hidden problems. In next MaoMi Chinese+ episode, we talk about what can go wrong on low-price tours, how people feel when thi...
E241 · 14 Dec 2025 · 5 min
#241 The Rise of Eating Alone in China 一人食
Today's Episode: Eating alone is becoming more popular in China. In this episode, we talk about 一人食 — what it means, why young people choose it, and why eating alone doesn’t always mean being lonely. Simple Chinese, real life, real culture. Membership Preview: How do you say “I want to be alone” in natural Chinese? In next MaoMi Chinese+ episode, you’ll learn many gentle, polite ways to say it — with simple sentences, slow explanations, and lots of examples you can actually use. Support MaoMi...
E240 · 7 Dec 2025 · 6 min
#240 The Chinese Dubbing of Zootopia 2 Caused Debate 中文配音引争议
Today's Episode: Why do so many Chinese viewers love Zootopia 2 but dislike its Chinese dubbing? In this episode, we explore why celebrity voice acting often feels “not right”, why people say they “get pulled out of the story”, and what audiences really want. Let’s dive in! Membership Preview: In next MaoMi Chinese+ episode, we look at some fun and surprising Chinese translations of famous films, and explore the culture, humour, and history behind them. If you’ve ever wondered why titles chan...
E239 · 30 Nov 2025 · 5 min
#239 A Brit in China’s Kitchen 做中国菜的英国人
Today's Episode: Discover how a young woman from the UK fell head-over-heels for Chinese food and became one of its greatest storytellers. In this episode, meet Fuchsia Dunlop — the first foreigner to train at a Sichuan chef school, and explore her delicious journey into Chinese cuisine. Membership Preview: Discover China’s breakfast culture with next MaoMi Chinese+ episode! From hot, filling meals in the north to soft, light dishes in the south, and unique local specialties in every city. Le...

About MaoMi Chinese

MaoMi Chinese is a English learning podcast from MaoMi Chinese. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.

Publisher: MaoMi Chinese
Language: English
Category: Learning
New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 5 min
Latest episode: 13 Sep 2026
Feed: RSS — paste into any podcast app
Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1548129463

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