Podcasts about chinesepod

What does it actually mean to be at a “level” in Chinese and why does moving up feel so slow?In this episode, Jared and John dig into the concept of leveling from both the perspective of the learner and from decades of experience in creating Chinese learning content. With John's decades of experience building structured learning systems, from ChinesePod to Mandarin Companion, you'll gain insight into what goes into defining levels and why it's much harder than it seems.Along the way, they dig into why vocabulary lists alone don't define your level, how “Swiss cheese” gaps in knowledge form, and why reinforcement, not just new content, is key to long-term progress. You'll also hear practical insights on how immersion, motivation, and structured input all play a role in helping you truly level up.John also shares a new project from Allset Learning: a set of free, level-based Chinese newsletters designed to provide consistent, engaging input for learners at three different stages. Follow the links below to subscribe for free. Links from the episode:ABC (All the Basics of Chinese) | SubstackAIC (Accessible Intermediate Chinese) | SubstackARC (Advanced Readings in Chinese) | SubstackMandarin Companion Graded Readers

Finally, a ChinesePod lesson for all our opera-loving listeners. Well, not so much operas themselves but bel canto, a world-renowned singing style that's exceedingly popular in China as well. Tune in to find out more! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1954

ChinesePod's back with another lesson for all you gamers out there, with a Chinese tilt. We'll cover computer games and console games, plus how to (talk about) hacking your system so you can use all those 7 RMB pirated discs. Get your game on with today's upper-intermediate lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1951

Most people struggle to find time to learn Chinese. Adam started learning it in the middle of one of the most intense study periods of his life, and kept going.A pre-med student at the University of Illinois, Adam didn't begin with a clear plan or a class requirement. Instead, it started with curiosity: books on cross-cultural healthcare, exposure to Chinese classmates, and a growing realization that language could open doors not just academically, but humanly.In this episode, Jared sits down with Adam to unpack how that curiosity turned into real progress in just a year and a half. From grinding through Anki decks and ChinesePod to forming friendships that pushed his speaking skills forward, Adam shares what actually made the difference and what didn't.They dig into the moments that changed everything: discovering how Chinese characters really work, moving from inconsistent self-study to structured learning, and pushing past the mental barrier of “I understand the words, but not the sentence.”But the real payoff? Adam is already using Chinese in the real world. Whether it's bonding with friends over hot pot or helping comfort a Chinese-speaking patient during a painful procedure, his story is a reminder that language learning isn't just about fluency, it's about connection.If you've ever wondered whether your efforts will actually lead to something meaningful, this episode shows exactly how they can.Links from the episode:Kid Learning Chinese | Adam Syed on InstagramMandarin Companion Graded Readers

Even if you're able to find an agent from a reliable real estate company to help you find the apartment of your dreams in China, you're still going to be confronted with a massive block of Chinese at the end of the process: the lease. Needless to say, it will probably take you a bit of time to read through the entire document, but today's upper-intermediate ChinesePod lesson should ease the pain a bit! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1924

Back to school! In this edition of ChinesePod's "Saved by the Gong" series, physics students learn the principles of buoyancy. What causes one object to float in a liquid where another one sinks? Learn all about it in this lesson! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2299

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

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

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

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

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

Chinese textbooks don't usually tell you this, but ChinesePod will let you in on a little secret: most of China does not speak that standard Beijing accent. In fact, some parts of China have accents and idiosyncrasies that can be downright baffling when you first encounter them. In this lesson, we learn about some key features of the Hunanese accent in Mandarin. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1524

We at ChinesePod are vaguely aware that some people like cats better than dogs. While we don't apologize for our various dog-themed lessons, we're happy to throw you cat lovers a (fish)bone. Listen to this lesson to learn how to deal with the irrational cat-haters of this world in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1518

ChinesePod is heading to a concert - not just any concert, but one of megastar Andy Lau's. Join us today to learn the Chinese you'll need to know when going to your next live show, and an answer to perhaps an even bigger question: is this guy still relevant? Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1464

It's easy to make friends in China, and before you know it you'll be getting invited over to new friends' houses and inviting your friends over to yours. Today's ChinesePod lesson will teach you the basics of at-the-door pleasantries that you'll exchange when you arrive. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1882

Take a trip with ChinesePod as we visit one of China's most famous cities: Xi'an! From the Qin Shi Huang's famous Terracotta Warriors to delicious foods found on Xi'an's Muslim food street, this city's got something for everyone. Join us and learn how to get yourself around in Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1430

We're off to the shoe store today to pick out a pair appropriate for the summer months. Learn how to describe shoes and shoe sizes in this ChinesePod lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1449

In this Chinese lesson, ChinesePod marketing manager Kay rounds off her three-point localization list with point number three: localizing management. Did you know that managers in China have to worry about issues like mooncakes and hongbao? Learn about it here. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1657

We know the challenge of getting into Mandarin Chinese is daunting to say the least, but don't worry, ChinesePod is here to help! Today's lesson is a practical guide for the complete newbie, hopefully assuaging some of the fears associated with learning Mandarin and giving you pointers of what you should do. Be sure to check out ChinesePod's Pinyin Pronunciation Chart; a handy reference for learning the basics of Mandarin Chinese pronunciation. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1833

ChinesePod has visitors today and they're getting the full tour of the office! Find out how to make small talk and give basic directions to people who are visiting from afar! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1410

In today's ChinesePod lesson we're headed back to our hometown. Lots of things have changed, some of them good and some of them not. Learn all about talking about the past in this reflective podcast. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1408

Science is fun! So are sports! But what happens when you want to discuss one in Chinese, but you instead use words describing the other? Sounds like you have a problem with tones, but not to worry! ChinesePod is here to help! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1436

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

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

It's April Fool's day and someone is about to get punk'd. Find out just what happens by tuning in to today's ChinesePod lesson all about practical jokes! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1390

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

Today's show covers important language for anyone planning on visiting a friend in a doorman building. Learn the basics for interacting with security, 保安(bǎo'ān), in today's helpful ChinesePod lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1364

Tossing and turning, lack of appetite, moodiness; these are all symptoms of one very common condition: jet lag! But the worst is when you forget to change the time on your phone and you show up somewhere at the wrong time! Find out how to describe this situation in today's ChinesePod lesson on time differences. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1284

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

Sending a package can be a bit intimidating in any language. The post office employee will ask you a number of questions about the contents of your package, the way you want to send it, and the options you have for its arrival. Check out today's ChinesePod lesson to prepare yourself for the next time you need to send a package and communicate these important details in Chinese! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1349

Got plans with friends that you've got to rearrange? Looking for a way to explain why you can't attend an appointment? Check out this ChinesePod lesson to learn the language you'll need to cancel plans. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1347

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

It's a nightmare situation: someone has an accident and needs immediate medical help, and you're the only person around to help. In today's ChinesePod lesson, learn how to call for help in Chinese. Who knows - with some of this vocabulary, you might just save a life one day. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1333

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

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

Riding a bike is probably the most convenient mode of transport in China. So far on ChinesePod you've used Mandarin to rent a bike and even fix a flat tire. In today's podcast we buy a bike, and bell, and lock... but don't forget to buy a helmet! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1273

It's coming up on Christmas time, which means presents and parties and... thank you notes. In today's lesson you can practice not only your Chinese letter-writing formula, but also how to say mushy and heartwarming cheesy lines to warm your friends' hearts. (Thank you, ChinesePod, for all the wonderful podcasts...) Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1288

So you figured out which movie you want to see, you bought the right tickets, and you made it past the concessions area (you might have even picked up some sweet popcorn on the way). Now what? ChinesePod is here to help you find your seat - or ask for help - in Chinese! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1295

They say laughter is the best medicine. In today's ChinesePod lesson you'll be learning how to express regret for a friend's unexpected injury, as well as offer standard (but sincere!) pleasant wishes for his or her speedy recovery! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1285

It's that time of year when the tank tops and shorts get packed away in storage. Out come the long johns, the thick socks, and the ear muffs. Join us in today's ChinesePod lesson as we learn how to talk about winter clothing in Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1306

The Chinese terms for various relatives are a bit complicated. But don't worry, ChinesePod is here to help you learn them! In today's Mandarin lesson, start talking about your sons, daughters and other family members. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1195

The Chinese terms for various relatives are a bit complicated. But don't worry, ChinesePod is here to help you learn them! In today's Mandarin lesson, start talking about your sons, daughters and other family members. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1195

Experiencing Chinese New Year in China is truly a spectacular event. Houses are covered in bright red decorations. Bright red lanterns are lit up for all to see. Literally millions of firecrackers are set off at the same time, filling the streets with a mighty roar. But how did these traditions come about? In this lesson a grandfather tells the story to his grandson. Also, be sure to check out the new task feature below, ChinesePod's newest way to enrich your learning experience along with fellow poddies! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2120

In this festive episode, we discuss spending Chrismas in Asia with friends. Over in the East, Xmas is not so much a holiday to spend with family, but rather with friends (unless they're Christian obviously). Learn some words for various holidays, and how to say how you will spend them. Happy holidays from myself, (Gwilym), Fiona, and Constance and the rest of the ChinesePod team. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4062

Getting out of bed is not much fun, unless you wake up to the sound of Ken and Jenny on ChinesePod! Today, learn how to talk about dragging yourself out of bed, all in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1140

You can't just drop in on people whenever you feel like it. They have their own lives, too! In this Mandarin Chinese podcast, you'll learn how to ask if and when people are free. Making appointments in Chinese is easy when you study with ChinesePod. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1215

We know how it happened: you were up until the wee small hours learning Mandarin with ChinesePod. By the time you got to work the next morning, everyone was getting ready for lunch! In today's podcast, you'll learn how to talk in Mandarin Chinese about why you were late. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1153

ChinesePod's Jenny Zhu is a world traveler beyond compare. In today's Chinese podcast, she'll be discussing her recent trip to the lovely island of Bali. You'll learn lots of useful Mandarin for talking about your travels and adventures. You'll even learn about a very special Indonesian beverage... Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1246

You've designed the apartment of your dreams. You've picked out furniture in your mind. Now it's time to get cracking on the details. We're not talking about decorative details here - we're talking about essential, practical details like electrical outlets, plumbing and even where to keep the rice cooker. Join us to learn all of this valuable language in today's ChinesePod lesson! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1352

Tired of making do with rented apartments designed in ways that don't suit your needs? Well today's ChinesePod lesson will cover the basics for designing your new apartment. Get everything you want (or, as the case may be, everything your spouse wants) in your new place! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1346