ChinesePod - Intermediate

In Chinese culture, there's a special celebration when a baby turns one month old. The gift-giving details can be a little confusing, even to the Chinese, so listen to this lesson for an explanation. While you're at it, learn what gift is given to celebrate a newborn's birth. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1618

A nerve-wracking situation in any culture, today we're meeting the girlfriend's parents. Will they be impressed or disappointed in their daughter's choice of boyfriend? Check out today's lesson to find out! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1382

A new generation of Chinese honeymooners are looking abroad for exotic yet affordable destination options. In this lesson, hear about the benefits of three special places within easy travel distance from China. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1614

Gifts range from the practical to the extravagant, and in today's lesson we're learning about both the language and culture of gift-giving in China. It might be news to you, but green hats are a big no-no. Find out why by tuning in! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1379

The growing number of drivers in China is a big deal for the government; there's not enough room on the roads for 1.3 billion cars, especially in big cities like Beijing and Shanghai. Learn about the different ways the local government in Beijing and Shanghai are dealing with the issue, and what exactly you'll have to go through to get a license plate for your car. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1611

With Expo fever in full swing, we're getting into the nitty-gritty of the event itself. Having already covered how to buy tickets and Haibao, the ubiquitous Expo mascot, we're spending today's lesson focusing on the much-anticipated China Pavilion and how to talk about it in Chinese. Join us! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1418

Maybe you showed up in China with nothing more than the clothes on your back and a sense of adventure, but some people bring a lot more... including pets. If you need to bring your furry friend to the Middle Kingdom, there are just a few procedures you need to be aware of. Learn about them in this lesson! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1603

Today's lesson focuses on a conversation between an employee and his boss. Learn the language appropriate for dealing with superiors, and find out how to ask for that raise you've been wanting - in Chinese! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1376

When there's a new employee in the office, someone has to show them around and show them the ropes. In this "Intermediate to Upper Intermediate" transitional Chinese lesson, learn some of the basic words and expressions used in such a situation. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1598

As spring arrives, the parks are beginning to liven up again. In today's show, we'll be exploring a popular park activity: kite flying. Join us to learn all about this fun hobby in this lesson! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1372

For the growing numbers of affluent Chinese mainlanders, Hong Kong is a shopping paradise. That is, until this year, when some new tax policies kicked in. In this lesson, learn about the difficulties of buying an iPad cheap in Hong Kong, as well as a rather sneaky (if legally questionable) little plot to avoid those taxes. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1593

Today, ChinesePod is exploring the four words no one ever wants to hear from the person they care about. Learn how to ask a friend to take things to the next level - and how to gently let someone down - in this heart-breaker of a lesson! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1370

Foreigners raising their young children in China face a very difficult choice regarding schooling. Is it better to send one's child to a local school to learn along with all the Chinese kids and grow up culturally Chinese, or to attend an international school where English is used much more often and Chinese language is not emphasized? Learn to discuss these issues with this lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1590

It's a mad dash to make the best of today's killer discount! Find out how to describe clothing sizes and styles in today's shopping-focused ChinesePod lesson! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1362

"My mind is filled with your lovely smiling face. Your sweet smile warms up this frigid winter. Can I still see you tomorrow - in that secluded place?" ...If you found a love letter like this written by your teenage son, how would you react? Listen in as a Chinese parent flips out in this lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1583

Ever wonder why you see some people in China wearing a little bit of red every single day? Well we've got an interesting explanation for you in today's astrology themed lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1358

Today's lesson features a very serious topic that affects many families. Learn not only how to talk about divorce in Chinese, but also learn about the divorce process in China. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1578

The language of sales and advertising is very unique. It's meant to get you excited enough to run to the store and buy that brand new cell phone you never wanted (again). In today's lesson, find out just what those guys in the TV advertisements are saying to get people to buy, buy buy! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1356

It takes a lot of hard work to build a business, but sometimes things go wrong. You may have taken various measures to get the company back on track, but in some cases you just have to consider bankruptcy. In this lesson, learn to discuss this unhappy situation in Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1573

Drip. Drip. Drip... we've got a leaky faucet today - time to call the plumber! Learn some great plumbing terms that will help you get your bathroom and kitchen in working order again. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1353

For all those tourists who have showed up in China dismayed at the modern economies and booming metropolises, the tourism industry has an answer, and that answer is the Chinese river towns. The old-style housing, traditional eats, and arts and crafts will charm Chinese and foreigners alike. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1567

It's the end of the Chinese year, and you know what that means! No, we're not talking about long waits in the ticket line at the train station. And we're not talking about fireworks, either. We're talking about the very exciting end of the year bonus. Let's just hope it was a good year... if not, you might have to scratch that new flat screen off of your shopping wishlist! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1351

In this lesson, two radio announcers discuss the Jewish "Festival of Lights" in Chinese. Get the abridged history of the holiday along with your essential candle vocabulary. You'll be ready for your first Chinese Hanukkah in no time. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1558

Choosing glasses is always a challenge, but throw in a system of glasses prescriptions completely different from any you're used to, and it's a recipe for confusion and frustration. But not to worry! ChinesePod is here to provide you with the tools to make your next trip to get eye glasses a success. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1345

The rising cost of food is a social issue that can't be ignored. You'll hear the average Zhou on the street talking about it, and you'll see it on the news. But what happens when you put the two together? What are the Chinese viewer reactions to this kind of news? Tune in to this lesson to find out. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1563

Being a parent means making tough decisions all the time. In today's podcast, we'll be learning about a very important parenting moment in an age-old debate: are righties smarter than lefties? Or vice versa? The parents in this dialog struggle with old Chinese stereotypes and try to respect the individuality of their toddler. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1343

At least for the time being, a lot of things are cheaper in China than in the West. One that might not immediately come to mind is laser eye surgery. But is it safe? How is it viewed and discussed in Chinese society? Listen in to this lesson for a modern Chinese take. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1553

Today we're leaving behind the rats, monkeys and tigers of the Chinese zodiac for Leo, Taurus and Sagittarius. Find out how to discuss your own sign, and learn how to ask someone else theirs. Who knows, you might even pick up some flirting tips! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1341

"Second-hand" isn't just one option when buying a bicycle; for many consumers, it's a whole way of life. In this lesson, we cover a range of topics, from broken-down bikes to second-hand philosophy. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1548

We've all been there: you're in the middle of a big project, you're about to save, and... nothing. Your computer is frozen. Nothing to do but shout in anger and beg the tech. department to come over and see what the bigger problem is. A virus? A hardware issue? Tune in today to learn how to describe computer problems and how to ask for help. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1336

How do you provide healthcare for a population of 1.4 billion? We don't know either, but this lesson takes a look at the more practical side of the issue: just getting a prescription filled. The Chinese process is a bit different from that of the west, so listen in to learn the Chinese way to get those meds. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1542

If you've been to China, you will have noticed the lack of fire detectors in homes and office buildings. We won't be solving this problem with today's ChinesePod lesson, but we will be providing you with the language tools to alert others if there is a fire. You'll also be learning how to ask for a fire extinguisher! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1334

Crank your amps up to 11; it's time for band practice! In this lesson you'll learn the Chinese to talk about getting ready for the big show, busting out with that sweet guitar solo, and even the possibility of making it big. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1538

We're in for a treat today - foot massages! But not just any foot massages... these will be medicinal foot soaks. Learn all about how the foot relates to other parts of the body - and how taking care of your feet might even help your stomach (huh)? Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1331

Adults that still live with their parents long past the time when they were expected to be financially independent are said to be "gnawing on the old" in Mandarin Chinese. In this lesson, hear how a member of this clan interacts with his parents (who don't particularly enjoy the gnawing). Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1534

It's intimidating enough meeting your spouse's family... today we're meeting the whole extended family, titles, relationships and all. After studying this lesson, you'll have the tools you need to feel comfortable in any Chinese family gathering! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1324

The days of the "iron rice bowl" are long gone, a daughter reminds her mother in this lesson. Just as in many other parts of the world, modern Chinese young people aren't staying with any one employer for too long. Find out more about this viewpoint on the Chinese job market in this lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1528

What better way to spend an hour on Saturday than soaking your fingers, getting your hands massaged, and coming home with beautifully manicured nails? And did you know - manicures aren't just for women! Check out today's lesson to arm yourself to confidently walk into a Chinese nail salon and get a lovely French manicure. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1315

What goes on in a Chinese bath house? Maybe not all of it is fit for a family podcast, but in this lesson a husband insists that bath houses are rapidly becoming popular (and legitimate) places to make business deals. Listen in on the debate and learn some useful Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1523

Everyone likes free money, right? But is there really such a thing as free money? Join us at ChinesePod today as we go shopping - and receive some vouchers that are tempting... too tempting! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1312

Ah, taxes... one of the few certainties in life, and the bane of our existence. Unfortunately, learning all the little quirks of the Chinese tax system doesn't make the whole ordeal any more fun in China. Listen in to this lesson, and we can help you out with the Mandarin Chinese side of the equation, at least. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1517

As children we're told not to judge a book by its cover. That being said, if you spend hours, days, perhaps even weeks finding just the right Christmas gift for someone, do you want to give up at the home-stretch and wrap it in a brown paper bag? Of course not! Listen to this ChinesePod lesson to make sure you know how to get the perfect wrapping paper suitable for your perfect gift! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1310

In August 7, 2010, there was a terrible mudslide in Gansu Province. In this lesson we hear not only a newscast related to the natural disaster, but also the reactions of some average Chinese people with relatives in Gansu. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1513

Now that it's cold out, sitting around a boiling pot of broth for hours on end doesn't seem like such a bad idea. On the contrary! It is a very appealing style of eating (which also accounts for the long lines at hot pot restaurants all over town right now). Learn how to talk hot pot in today's delicious ChinesePod lesson! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1303

Do you know the story of the Frog Prince? Do you know the Chinese chengyu about frogs and wells? In this lesson, hear a children's fairytale infused with Chinese cultural characteristics, and also get a little dose of Middle Kingdom morals. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1508

Ever found yourself running late, navigating an unknown place, trying to find the address you had scribbled down in front of you? Well today we're in this very situation, and our directions are all off! Learn how to ask for directions (and to criticize someone for completely messing up the directions)! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1299

Do you know all the work that goes into maintaining a rice paddy? And can you talk about it in Mandarin Chinese? In this lesson, a visitor to the countryside learns about both the hard labor and the simple pleasures to be found outside of China's urban areas. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1502

Some people are minimalists, others are pack-rats. When it comes to moving house, you'd better hope your the former and not the latter! Join us today as we call up a moving company to find out just how to get stuff out of one apartment and into another! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1292

Foreigners everywhere are working hard at learning Chinese. Unfortunately, many of those sincere students find themselves learning from boring, poorly designed material. In this lesson we take a look at this issue from the angle of the school and the teachers, who are asking each other: what can we do to make these Chinese classes more interesting? Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1498

If you take random peeks at your Chinese co-workers' computer screens throughout the day, you'll be sure to find quite a few of them raising farm animals and growing crops on Kaixin Wang. Kaixin Wang is China's answer to Facebook, and it's super popular. Listen to today's Mandarin lesson to find out more. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1276

Learn Mandarin From Movies Series aims to increase awareness of fun Chinese movies that can help you improve your Mandarin Chinese level. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4598