ChinesePod - Intermediate

So dad's got the new digital video camera out, and he claims to know how to use it, but he's having a little trouble. Shaky hands, erratic zooming in and out... this Chinese lesson covers the language you'll need. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1569

Remember when 3G was the must-have feature on every smartphone? Before lightning-fast 5G and unlimited data plans became the norm, getting a reliable 3G connection felt like unlocking the future. In this throwback ChinesePod lesson, we revisit a classic conversation about signing up for a 3G plan in China. Whether you were a business traveler needing constant email access or just couldn't live without YouTube, Facebook, or Twitter, 3G was once absolutely essential. Tune in and relive the moment when mobile internet first became part of everyday life in China! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1891

In these modern times, life is getting easier and easier. Cell phones and the internet make connecting with loved ones half a world away a simple matter. But nothing reminds us of how fragile all these amenities are like a natural disaster. In this lesson, follow along as a Chinese mother and father learn of a massive earthquake in New Zealand and anxiously try to contact their daughter who is studying there. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1881

Today's ChinesePod lesson presents a dire situation: a young woman has dialed into a mental health hotline reporting domestic violence and threatening suicide. Can the experts on the other end talk her down and help her make the right decisions? Tune in and find out. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1876

The end of year party just got a lot more exciting. First prize in the raffle is a car! Listen to the lesson to find out who wins! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2627

Today's lesson is a bit different and quite special. We have a 20 minute Chinese New Year calligraphy lesson for you all to join in with. Join newbie learner Karl and advanced learner Natasha as they learn to write some common sayings and characters to write during Spring Festival. We will learn all about why you see certain characters such as 春 and 满 everywhere during this time, and also the meaning behind the red sheets of paper on either side of a door seen during this festival. If you don't know any of this, no problem. Get your calligraphy pens at the ready, and prepare for a spot of relaxing calligraphy. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2835

With more and more Chinese citizens buying cars, the car wash business in big cities is booming. But that's not to say that every automobile owner keeps his ride nice and clean. In this lesson, learn how to discuss car washes and filthy cars in Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1566

We hope all of our employed users have perfect jobs that are extremely fun and have great benefits and high salaries. Unfortunately, we have yet to meet someone who has never had a job that they despised. Today's Upper-Intermediate lesson joins three coworkers who have had less than satisfactory jobs in the past. Tune in and learn the invaluable skill of how to complain about previous jobs in Mandarin Chinese! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1871

Everyone has a duty to protect the environment, and it starts with you! Far from just spewing grandiose platitudes, in this Chinese lesson we're prepared to lay out exactly what the individual can be doing to help this ailing planet. Tune in to find out what we should be doing more of, and what we should be doing less of. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1562

It's not uncommon in China for the wife in a marriage to have sole access to the family credit cards and bank accounts (the reason being to avoid wasteful purchases, of course!). Naturally, the husbands have devised a way around their wives' vice-like grip on the family funds: stashing money in nooks and crannies all over their houses. But what happens when a wife discovers her husband's hidden hoards? Listen in and find out! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1863

You may not be surprised to learn that China has its own version of sign language, but do you know the role regional variation plays in Chinese sign language? Get a little closer to the deaf community in China by learning about the sign language situation in this lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1559

Do you believe in astrology? Palm reading? Physiognomy? Feng shui? The Chinese tradition of reading facial features and palms is long and storied; while the practice is not as widespread as it once was, the practice still exists. Listen in as two young travelers have their own fortunes revealed in today's ChinesePod lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1859

The difference between kings, emperors, and presidents can be confusing to a child. Explaining the difference in Chinese, however, becomes crystal clear in this lesson. Lesson in to learn the vocabulary and the language of power. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1556

The "Seven Year Itch" has ravaged and nearly destroyed the relationships of our saga, but it seems the epidemic has finally subsided. In the final chapter, we listen in on two seasoned husbands and their reflections on their personal encounters with the "itch." Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1903

How does the word for "moonlight" refer to the modern Chinese worker's spending habits? Learn all about the secret life of the Chinese "moonlight clan" in this lesson, and how it relates to deep-seated Chinese spending habits. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1552

We've witnessed the trials and tribulations endured by couples afflicted with the seven-year-itch: fierce arguments, suspect extramarital interactions, even divorce. Luckily, at least one couple has managed to make it through relatively unscathed with their relationship intact. Listen in as she discusses with her close friend how she and her husband were able to cope. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1856

There are many massage options in China, and one of the popular ones is blind massage. What's special about blind massage? Tune in to this lesson to find out the answer and learn some massage Chinese at the same time. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1549

ChinesePod brings you the next installment in our series on marital strife. One couple's marriage is in severe jeopardy after a husband's rather suspect interaction with a young college girl. Listen in to find out more! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1813

Parting is such sweet sorrow... except when it tastes like beer. In this lesson, a few 'bei's are 'gan'ned as an office throws a farewell dinner for a departing co-worker. But is all the Chinese well-wishing heart-felt, or mere cliche lip service? Listen in to find out. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1543

We return to the topic of the "seven year itch" to find another couple's marriage struggling. Additionally, a close friend's seemingly perfect marriage is now facing divorce. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1789

Now both Beijing and Shanghai have official Apple Stores, just in time for the release of the iPad. What do you think of the iPad? Revolution in computing, or an over-sized (overpriced) iPhone? No matter where you stand on the issue, this lesson will equip you to make some comments on the Apple iPad in Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1539

Popularized by the 1955 Marilyn Monroe film, the "seven year itch" is a phrase which has found its way into Chinese culture, and, unfortunately, some Chinese marriages as well. In this lesson, delve into the psyche of a young woman whose marriage is a bit shy of perfection. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1721

There's never a dull moment on the streets of China. This means you better be looking both ways even on one-way streets, and you must always be on the lookout for renegade pedestrians and maniacal drivers. Are there sometimes altercations? You better believe it! This lesson focuses on a disagreement between a driver and a pedestrian. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1536

The weather has been a ghastly roller coaster of weirdness in recent years, and in China, many are taking a closer look at pollution. Specifically, we're talking about fine particulate matter. Listen in to learn more about this very timely issue. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1838

A move into a new home involves lots of excitement and lots of work. Inevitably, the first time you try to cook a meal in that new home, you'll discover that a few crucial tools and condiments are missing. In this lesson, learn about the essentials of the Chinese kitchen. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1533

Do you hear a big round of applause for your making it to Upper-Intermediate? You might find yourself in a learning plateau though. Take heart! This level is about focus, refining your goals and fully delving into the rewarding learning and life experiences on the road ahead. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1834

When business is slow, it's a good time to have an department store "anniversary sale". Listen to a shop assistant subtly trick a customer into getting some discount goods. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2809

Few countries are as education-crazy as China, but what recourse is left for those that couldn't afford a higher level education right out of high school but still have a desire to further their higher learning? China actually does have a system in place to help these people, but the reality is not exactly perfect. Learn about it in this Chinese lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1827

Today we hear a Chinese and British colleague chat about Christmas and how they will celebrate this holiday period. Seems like the Chinese colleague might be going on a date with someone! Have a Merry Xmas everybody. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2816

In this lesson, an intrepid shopper is going through a rather long list of medical supplies as he receives assistance from the pharmacist. As for why an apparently healthy young man would need such an assortment of bandages and painkillers, listen in to this Chinese lesson to find out! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1823

Major cities in China have automated taxi cab reservation services. You make a phone call, listen to a recording, and then are put in touch with an operator. This lesson will cover all the basics for what to expect from such a call, empowering you to start reserving your own taxis! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1529

Driving in China has been likened to action films, video games, and even demolition derby. Make no mistake -- there are good reasons not to get behind the wheel in China! On the other hand, there are also compelling reasons not to make that daily commute. Learn more in this lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1818

Whether you prefer a high-end salon or that guy cutting hair under the bridge, this lesson will cover all the Mandarin Chinese a guy needs to simply make his hair shorter (and then a bit shorter). Beware, though: learning this material could result in massive hair loss. Use with caution. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1519

The Chinese are well aware that many foreigners are adopting Chinese babies. Many of these foreigners even return to China with their children, introducing the land of their heritage to them. But what does the average Chinese person think about this phenomenon? Listen in on one such conversation in this lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1806

Maybe you know about the weekly English corner in your local park, but did you know that there are also "music corners?" In China, these informal bands aren't too hard to find (they're the ones with the musical instruments in their hands), and they sometimes even draw quite a crowd. In this lesson, learn the vocabulary for various traditional Chinese musical instruments. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1516

In part three of this series, some serious research has been done on the motor home market in China. We're talking market share, we're talking core competitive advantages, we're talking high-end markets and low-end markets. Learn some of this very important marketing speak in this Chinese lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1846

We've all met one of those people that seems to be allergic to everything. Sure, it's not their fault, but that doesn't stop others from being annoyed at the dinner table. In this lesson, learn many sentences patterns related to expressing "allergies," "allergic," and "allergic reaction" in Mandarin Chinese, while also experiencing some fun social tension. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1512

So the consumer survey on the potential motorhome market in China has been conducted, and now it's time to present the results to the boss. This lesson, part 2 in an ongoing series, covers the key language for discussing marketing segments in a business setting. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1808

Construction is everywhere in China's major cities. You can't avoid it, so you better learn how to talk about it. In this Chinese lesson, learn not only how to say that a road is under construction, but also learn to describe some of the major machinery on the construction site. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1507

There's a vast market of billions of consumers in China, so companies are clamoring to get their products in the door. But are all products right for China? It may be wise to conduct a little market research before going all in on the Middle Kingdom. This lesson deals with a consumer survey regarding motor homes in China. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1778

The middle-class Chinese custom of having an "ayi" (housekeeper) is one that most foreigners can get on board with right away. With the domestic assistance, however, can come language difficulties. In this lesson, learn some of the most importance Mandarin words relating to cleaning the home. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1503

Known in the West as "bizarro Othello" and "the thinking man's checkers," the game known as "go" in Japan and "weiqi" in China is actually quite the intellectual exercise with a long, rich tradition. In this Chinese lesson, the basics are taught to a child (who might actually be a bit too young to absorb it all). Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1803

In the eternal "north vs. south" debate, one of the key issues is always climate. The north gets colder, it's true, but at least the air is dry. Meanwhile, down south everyone suffers through damp cold and sticky, drippy summers. This lesson will equip you with all the Chinese vocabulary to discuss these most pressing of climate issues. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1501

Are you a hardcore clubber? Or are you more of a wannabe, hoping for just a little peek into that dark, loud world of music, alcohol, and one-night stands? This lesson provides the outsider perspective into a Chinese club without getting too deep into the scene. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1769

Tattoos are commonplace among young women of many western countries, but what about in China? You might be surprised how many tattoos you'll see on girls in big cities like Beijing and Shanghai. In this lesson, we'll hear two Chinese girls discuss whether or not to ink their bodies. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1497

Chinese children grow up with a story about Cao Cao's son, Cao Chong, and his clever solution to the question of how to weigh an animal as enormous as an elephant. What's that? You've never heard the story? Tune in for a pleasant introduction to Chinese children's stories that have been passed down through the ages. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1758

In China there's a whole special language reserved for counting out change (and no, Shanghai poddies, we're not talking about Shanghainese!). This is the language where the Chinese word for "to search for" suddenly becomes "to give back money." Learn all the essential Mandarin in this lesson to make sure you get the right change back. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1494

Remember the first time you wrote up your resume, and its 10 pages of vainglory? Recent university grads in China make the same mistake, and benefit from some sage advice on how to distill a CV to its essence. Learn the Chinese for this key job search language in this lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1747

How long have you been using that installation of Windows? Two years? Consider yourself lucky. Reinstalling the operating system is a necessary nuisance in our modern lives. Add China's computer virus-rich environment into the equation, and you can bet you'll be reinstalling Windows fairly often. Learn the critical Chinese vocabulary in this lesson... before it's too late! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1491

Formal Chinese can be a bit tricky at first. In this lesson, your trusty ChinesePod hosts dissect a typical announcement from HR, explaining in everyday terms what that formal language about "flexible work hours" is trying to say. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1742

After being shown multiple apartments by an agent and dealing with all kinds of grumpy potential landlords, the time has finally come to sign that lease. In this lesson, learn about the payment methods and contracts you'll be dealing with when renting a mainland Chinese apartment. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1526