Podcasts about Mandarin

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Moonlit Quest: Finding Love and Legacy in Bamboo Shadows Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-08-28-22-34-02-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 竹林中的月光朦胧，洒下斑驳的影子。En: The moonlight in the bamboo forest was hazy, casting dappled shadows.Zh: 中秋节快到了，梅、家豪和丽芬三人正走在四川的竹林中。En: The Zhongqiu Jie, or Mid-Autumn Festival, was approaching, and Mei, Jiahao, and Lifen were walking through a bamboo forest in Sichuan.Zh: 梅心情有些沉重，她要找到那盏祖母珍爱的传家灯笼。En: Mei felt a bit heavy-hearted as she was determined to find the precious ancestral lantern cherished by her grandmother.Zh: “灯笼就藏在一个秘密的地方。我感觉到了。”梅坚定地说。En: "The lantern is hidden in a secret place. I can feel it," Mei said resolutely.Zh: 她想在节日之前找到它，以纪念她的祖母。En: She wanted to find it before the festival, to commemorate her grandmother.Zh: 家豪紧跟在梅后面，他暗暗下定决心，要在今天表达他的心意。En: Jiahao followed closely behind Mei, secretly determined to express his feelings today.Zh: “不要担心，我们一定能成功。”他鼓励道。En: "Don't worry, we'll definitely succeed," he encouraged.Zh: 丽芬不太相信竹林里的传说，但为了梅，她也愿意投入这场寻找。En: Lifen didn't quite believe in the legends of the bamboo forest, but for Mei, she was willing to join this search.Zh: “我还是觉得有点不安，听说这里有神秘的守护灵。”她小声说。En: "I still feel a bit uneasy. I've heard there are mysterious guardian spirits here," she whispered.Zh: 走了不知多久，他们发现了一个藏着灯笼的地方。En: After walking for an unknown amount of time, they discovered a place hiding the lantern.Zh: 就在他们欣喜若狂时，天空突然乌云密布，暴雨来临了。En: Just as they were ecstatic, the sky suddenly became overcast, and a torrential rain began.Zh: 雨水打湿了地面，泥泞四溢，灯笼被卷起，顺着水流向竹林深处。En: The rain soaked the ground, turning it muddy, and the lantern was swept away, carried by the water deeper into the forest.Zh: 梅和家豪冲过去，试图抓住灯笼。En: Mei and Jiahao rushed forward, attempting to catch the lantern.Zh: 丽芬也加入了，三人合力最终抓住了灯笼。En: Lifen also joined in, and together, the three of them managed to finally catch the lantern.Zh: “我们成功了！”梅高兴得差点哭出声来。En: "We did it!" Mei almost cried out in happiness.Zh: 他们披着湿透的衣服，终于带着灯笼回到了村子，正好赶上月亮升起的时刻。En: Draped in their soaked clothes, they finally returned to the village with the lantern, just in time to see the moon rise.Zh: 村子里到处是灯火和欢乐的笑声。En: The village was filled with lights and joyous laughter.Zh: 家豪鼓起勇气，对梅说：“我一直很喜欢你，从小到大。”En: Jiahao mustered the courage to say to Mei, "I've always liked you, from childhood until now."Zh: 梅愣住了，接着脸红起来。En: Mei was stunned, then blushed.Zh: “谢谢你，家豪。”En: "Thank you, Jiahao."Zh: 这趟冒险让梅意识到，除了传家宝灯笼，亲情与朋友之间的羁绊同样重要。En: This adventure made Mei realize that, aside from the family heirloom lantern, the bonds between family and friends are equally important.Zh: 三人坐在灯火下，分享着月饼，看着满月，他们感受到节日的温暖和美好。En: The three of them sat under the lights, sharing mooncakes and gazing at the full moon, feeling the warmth and beauty of the festival.Zh: 中秋节的夜晚，因为找到祖母的灯笼，也因为彼此的心意，变得更加难忘。En: The night of the Mid-Autumn Festival, because of finding the grandmother's lantern and their feelings for each other, became all the more unforgettable. Vocabulary Words:hazy: 朦胧dappled: 斑驳secretly: 暗暗guardian spirits: 守护灵overcast: 乌云密布torrential rain: 暴雨muddy: 泥泞swept away: 卷起ecstatic: 欣喜若狂mustered: 鼓起blushed: 脸红heirloom: 传家宝bonds: 羁绊gazing: 看着warmth: 温暖unforgettable: 难忘lantern: 灯笼determined: 坚定commemorate: 纪念resolutely: 坚定地baroque: 古典风格uneasy: 不安cherished: 珍爱ancestor: 祖母joyous: 欢乐apprehension: 忧虑scurry: 赶忙festive: 节日的soaked: 湿透draped: 披着

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Mei's Instinct: A Heartbeat Away from Family Harmony Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-08-27-22-34-02-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 梅坐在厨房的长桌旁，耳边是外面孩子们的欢笑声和厨房里袅袅的饭香。En: Mei sat at the long table in the kitchen, the sounds of the children's laughter and the aroma of food wafting through from the kitchen.Zh: 家里热闹又温馨，是她们南半球夏天的标志之一。En: The home was lively and cozy, one of the hallmarks of their southern hemisphere summer.Zh: 阳光通过花园里的古老树叶洒下斑驳的影子，给这座大房子增添了一份宁静。En: Sunlight filtered through the ancient leaves in the garden, casting mottled shadows and adding a sense of tranquility to the large house.Zh: 梅的奶奶李靠在椅子上，时不时地轻咳。En: Mei's grandmother, Li, reclined in her chair, occasionally coughing lightly.Zh: 这声音像一把轻轻撩动梅心弦的小提琴弦，唤起她对往事的回忆，那些与家人有关的不愉快场景。En: The sound was like a violin string gently plucking at Mei's heartstrings, evoking memories of unpleasant scenes from the past involving family.Zh: 梅心里一直有个挥之不去的担忧，生怕家人们重蹈覆辙。En: Mei had a persistent worry in her heart, fearing that her family might repeat past mistakes.Zh: “奶奶，你的咳嗽不见好转，我觉得我们应该去看医生，”梅温柔地说道，眉头微微皱起。En: "Grandma, your cough isn't getting better. I think we should see a doctor," Mei said gently, her brows slightly furrowed.Zh: 昌，是梅的哥哥，却摇头说：“梅，不用那么紧张。奶奶这只是季节性过敏。夏天是这样，每年都差不多。”En: Chang, Mei's brother, shook his head and said, "Mei, don't be so anxious. Grandma's just experiencing seasonal allergies. That's how summer is; it's almost the same every year."Zh: 听到昌这么说，梅心中闪过一丝怀疑。En: Hearing what Chang said, a trace of doubt flashed through Mei's mind.Zh: 也许真的是她多虑了？En: Could she truly be overthinking it?Zh: 可是，这种感觉是那么揪心。En: Yet the feeling was so troubling.Zh: 她知道，她必须下个决定，这是她做为家人守护者应负的责任。En: She knew she had to make a decision, as it was her responsibility as the family's protector.Zh: 夜晚降临，月光如水，照亮了厨房的地板。En: As night descended, the moonlight, like water, illuminated the kitchen floor.Zh: 梅静静地坐在那里，心中犹豫不决。En: Mei sat there quietly, torn with indecision.Zh: 可当她再次听见李轻轻的咳嗽声，犹如回荡在她内心深处的一声钟响，她坚定地决定要做正确的事情。En: But when she once again heard Li's gentle cough, echoing like a bell ringing deep within her soul, she resolved to do the right thing.Zh: 第二天早晨，梅鼓起勇气，对昌说：“我还是觉得奶奶需要见医生。请相信我。”En: The next morning, Mei mustered the courage and said to Chang, "I still feel that Grandma needs to see a doctor. Please trust me."Zh: 昌疑惑地看着梅，但他没有再争论。En: Chang looked at Mei with doubt, but he didn't argue further.Zh: 毕竟，他知道妹妹的心意，像这柔和夏日的阳光一样坚定和温暖。En: After all, he knew his sister's intentions were as steadfast and warm as the gentle summer sunlight.Zh: 医生的诊断很快就有了结果，En: The doctor's diagnosis was soon in.Zh: 李的咳嗽并不严重，只是小问题，如果不处理可能会变坏。En: Li's cough was not serious, just a minor issue that could worsen if left unaddressed.Zh: 梅松了一口气，她知道，她的坚持是对的。En: Mei sighed with relief, knowing she had been right to persist.Zh: 她感到一种久违的平静。En: She felt a long-lost sense of peace.Zh: 家人们围坐在餐桌旁，窗外树影摇曳，夏日的微风轻轻捎来温馨的气息。En: The family gathered around the dining table, with the shadows of trees swaying outside, as the summer breeze gently brought in a warm, cozy feeling.Zh: 梅抬眼，看见奶奶慈祥的笑容，En: Mei looked up and saw Li's kind smile.Zh: 她心中自豪，自己终于相信了自己的直觉，为奶奶的健康做出了正确的决定。En: She felt proud for trusting her instincts and making the right decision for her grandmother's health.Zh: 故事在这片温暖中结束。En: The story concludes in this warmth.Zh: 梅学会了如何信任自己的判断，无论他人反对与否。En: Mei learned how to trust her own judgment, regardless of opposition.Zh: 这是一个对她而言，更加坚定成熟的开始。En: This marked the beginning of a more determined and mature phase for her. Vocabulary Words:laughter: 欢笑wafting: 袅袅tranquility: 宁静reclined: 靠persisted: 坚持steadfast: 坚定illuminate: 照亮pluck: 撩动cognizant: 知晓hallmarks: 标志mottled: 斑驳evoking: 唤起doubt: 怀疑courage: 勇气mature: 成熟peace: 平静gathered: 围坐decision: 决定opposition: 反对indecision: 犹豫不决instincts: 直觉swaying: 摇曳aroma: 饭香ancient: 古老torn: 揪心frown: 皱眉descent: 降临resolve: 决定judgment: 判断gentle: 温柔

Does Latin Still Matter? Why Parents Should Care About This “Dead” LanguageLatin is often dismissed as outdated or impractical - especially in an age of Google Translate and global languages like Spanish or Mandarin. So why do classical Christian schools keep it at the center of their curriculum? In this episode, host Davies Owens sits down with Dr. Chad Kim - author, pastor, and long-time Latin teacher - to unpack the surprising relevance of Latin today.Together they explore:Why Latin is more than a “dead language” and remains the bedrock of Western civilizationHow learning Latin strengthens logic, attention, and critical thinkingThe way Latin opens doors to Scripture, church history, and the Great BooksWhy wrestling with Latin builds the discipline and fortitude our distracted culture desperately needsHow Dr. Kim's new curriculum brings joy, depth, and even prayer into Latin study

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: From Nervous Silence to Applause: Li Wei's Qixi Triumph Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-08-26-22-34-02-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 夏天的阳光透过树叶，洒在白云观安静的庭院里。En: The summer sunlight filtered through the leaves, sprinkling onto the quiet courtyard of Baiyun Temple.Zh: 李伟坐在石凳上，手里拿着一本关于七夕节故事的小册子。En: Li Wei sat on a stone bench, holding a booklet about the story of the Qixi Festival in his hand.Zh: 他的心情有些紧张。En: He felt somewhat nervous.Zh: 学校即将举办文化交流活动，而李伟希望能够在演讲中讲述一个扣人心弦的七夕节故事。En: The school was about to host a cultural exchange event, and Li Wei hoped to tell a captivating Qixi Festival story during his presentation.Zh: 白云观周围是典雅的中国传统建筑，青瓦朱墙，给人一种宁静的感觉。En: Surrounding Baiyun Temple were elegant traditional Chinese buildings with azure tiles and red walls, giving a sense of tranquility.Zh: 这里是李伟练习演讲的地方。En: This was where Li Wei practiced his speeches.Zh: 尽管李伟安静内向，但他对中国民间故事有着深刻的理解，尤其是七夕节牛郎与织女的传说。En: Though he was quiet and introverted, he had a profound understanding of Chinese folk tales, especially the legend of the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl from the Qixi Festival.Zh: 李伟知道江明也参加这个演讲活动。En: Li Wei knew that Jiang Ming was also participating in this speech event.Zh: 江明从来都是自信满满，侃侃而谈。En: Jiang Ming was always confident and spoke eloquently.Zh: 李伟却常常因为害怕在众人面前讲话而紧张不已。En: In contrast, Li Wei often felt extremely nervous about speaking in front of an audience.Zh: 为了战胜这种恐惧，李伟每天都来白云观练习，周围的祥和让他感到些许安慰。En: To overcome this fear, he practiced daily at Baiyun Temple, where the serene surroundings offered him some comfort.Zh: 这天清晨，李伟深吸一口气，开始背诵他准备的故事。En: That morning, Li Wei took a deep breath and began reciting the story he had prepared.Zh: 他想要的不仅仅是复述一个老故事，而是用心去讲，用他自己的观点来打动别人。En: He aimed not just to retell an old story but to speak from the heart and move others with his own perspective.Zh: 山间的凉风轻抚他的面颊，他仿佛看到了牛郎与织女在星空下相会的场景。En: A cool breeze from the mountains caressed his face, and he seemed to see the scene of the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl meeting under the starry sky.Zh: 想到这里，李伟嘴角微微上翘，心中更加坚定。En: With this thought, Li Wei's lips curled into a slight smile, and his resolve strengthened.Zh: 演讲当日，讲台上灯光明亮，观众静静等待。En: On the day of the speech, the stage lights were bright, and the audience waited quietly.Zh: 轮到李伟上场时，他的心跳加速，但他紧握双手，暗自鼓励自己。En: When it was Li Wei's turn to take the stage, his heart raced, but he clasped his hands and quietly encouraged himself.Zh: 走上台，他看见观众席上的期待的目光，脑海中又浮现出白云观宁静的画面。En: Walking onto the stage, he saw the expectant looks in the audience and envisioned the tranquil scene of Baiyun Temple in his mind.Zh: “七夕节不仅是牛郎与织女的故事，”李伟开口说道，声音有些颤抖，但语气坚定，“也是关于我们每个人对生活美好的向往和追求。En: "The Qixi Festival is not only about the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl," Li Wei began, his voice slightly trembling but his tone firm, "it is also about each of our yearnings and pursuits for the beauty in life."Zh: ”他的故事不仅讲述了传统的传说，还结合了他对爱与坚持的独特见解。En: His story not only recounted the traditional legend but also incorporated his unique insights into love and perseverance.Zh: 当李伟结束演讲时，观众爆发出热烈的掌声。En: When Li Wei finished his speech, the audience erupted into warm applause.Zh: 李伟的心中充满感激，他终于明白，自己的声音和观点同样有价值。En: His heart was filled with gratitude, and he finally understood that his voice and viewpoint were valuable too.Zh: 江明过来拍了拍他的肩膀，微笑着说：“做得好，李伟。En: Jiang Ming came over and patted him on the shoulder, smiling and saying, "Well done, Li Wei."Zh: ”这让李伟感到温暖与鼓舞。En: This made Li Wei feel both warmth and encouragement.Zh: 那天，李伟不仅赢得了掌声，也赢得了自信，知道自己能用心去触动他人。En: That day, Li Wei not only earned applause but also gained confidence, knowing that he could touch others with his heart.Zh: 这是属于他的胜利，一个以特别方式庆祝的七夕。En: It was his victory, celebrating Qixi in a special way. Vocabulary Words:filtered: 透过courtyard: 庭院booklet: 小册子nervous: 紧张cultural: 文化exchange: 交流event: 活动captivating: 扣人心弦的elegant: 典雅的profound: 深刻的introverted: 内向legend: 传说eloquently: 侃侃而谈audience: 观众serene: 祥和perspective: 观点caressed: 轻抚resolve: 坚定stage: 讲台clasped: 紧握expectant: 期待的yearnings: 向往pursuits: 追求incorporated: 结合insights: 见解perseverance: 坚持applause: 掌声gratitude: 感激encouragement: 鼓舞victory: 胜利

Can you really learn Mandarin through listening and reading alone? What is comprehensible input, and how do you get enough of it?And how do speaking, writing, grammar, and flashcards fit in?#learnchinese #comprehensibleinput #ci #input #reading #listeningLink to article on Hacking Chinese: Learning Chinese through comprehensible input: https://www.hackingchinese.com/learning-chinese-comprehensible-input/Are authentic texts good for learning Chinese or is graded content better? https://www.hackingchinese.com/are-authentic-texts-good-for-learning-chinese-or-is-graded-content-better/Learning the third tone in Mandarin: https://www.hackingchinese.com/learning-the-third-tone-mandarin-chinese/20 tips and tricks to improve your Chinese writing ability: https://www.hackingchinese.com/20-tips-and-tricks-to-improve-your-chinese-writing-ability/How to become fluent in Chinese: https://www.hackingchinese.com/how-to-become-fluent-in-chinese/Playing word games to practise fluency: https://www.hackingchinese.com/playing-word-games-to-practise-fluency/Reading is a lot like spaced repetition, only better: https://www.hackingchinese.com/reading-is-a-lot-like-spaced-repetition-only-better/Why flashcards are great for learning Chinese: https://www.hackingchinese.com/why-flashcards-are-great-for-learning-chinese/Why spaced repetition software is uniquely well-suited to learning Chinese characters: https://www.hackingchinese.com/why-spaced-repetition-software-is-uniquely-well-suited-to-learning-chinese-characters/An introduction to comprehension-based Chinese teaching and learning: https://www.hackingchinese.com/introduction-comprehension-based-chinese-teaching-learning/More information and inspiration about learning and teaching Chinese can be found  at https://www.hackingchinese.comMusic: "Traxis 1 ~ F. Benjamin" by Traxis, 2020 - Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution (3.0)

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Mystical Reunion: Hearts Apiece at Huangshan's Lantern Festival Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-08-25-22-34-02-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 黄山在傍晚薄雾中显得格外神秘。En: Huangshan appears especially mysterious enveloped in the thin mist of evening.Zh: 满山苍翠的松树与古老的石阶交织出如画的风景。En: The lush pine trees blanket the mountain, interwoven with ancient stone steps, creating a picturesque scene.Zh: 这个时候，正值中元节，这里的人们开始下山，在小溪中放漂流灯笼。En: It is the time of the Zhongyuan Festival, and the local people begin descending the mountain to set afloat lanterns in the stream.Zh: 朦胧的灯光在水面上摇曳，给山间增添了一丝温暖。En: The dim lights sway on the water's surface, adding a touch of warmth to the mountain.Zh: 丽娟、梅琳和志远走在黄山的石阶上，他们是曾经的高中同学。En: Lijuan, Meilin, and Zhiyuan walk on the stone steps of Huangshan.Zh: 毕业多年后，今天他们在此相聚。En: They were once high school classmates.Zh: 丽娟站在山顶，遥望远方，思绪万千。En: After many years since graduation, today they reunite here.Zh: 她渴望和老朋友们重拾过去的友情，也希望能理清自己对志远的复杂情感。En: Lijuan stands at the mountain peak, gazing into the distance, her thoughts running deep.Zh: 梅琳兴奋异常，她是个开朗的人，时常望向丽娟，期待着她能敞开心扉。En: She yearns to rekindle the friendship with her old friends and hopes to untangle her complicated feelings towards Zhiyuan.Zh: 但丽娟却总是若有所思。En: Meilin is exceedingly excited; she is a cheerful person who often looks at Lijuan, hoping she would open up her heart.Zh: 志远则显得沉静，心中同样藏着许多未解的情结，尤其是对丽娟。En: However, Lijuan is always deep in thought.Zh: 天色渐渐暗下来，山间的灯笼开始点亮。En: Zhiyuan, on the other hand, appears calm, harboring his own unresolved emotions, especially towards Lijuan.Zh: 梅琳提议去放灯笼，希望借此机会给大家带来好运。En: As darkness gradually falls, the lanterns in the mountain begin to light up.Zh: 他们来到溪边，每人手中捧着一个小灯笼，写下自己的愿望。En: Meilin suggests setting the lanterns adrift, hoping to bring good luck.Zh: 当灯笼被放入水中，丽娟和志远不由得走到一旁，留下梅琳仔细地看着溪水。En: They arrive at the stream, each holding a small lantern, on which they write their wishes.Zh: “志远，”丽娟终于开口，“多年过去了，我还是无法忘记那件事。En: When the lanterns are set afloat, Lijuan and Zhiyuan find themselves stepping aside, leaving Meilin watching the stream intently.Zh: ”她的声音轻柔，带着些许忧伤。En: "Zhiyuan," Lijuan finally speaks, "all these years, I still can't forget that matter."Zh: 志远深吸一口气，缓缓说道：“我一直想和你谈谈。En: Her voice is gentle, tinged with sadness.Zh: 但我怕打扰你的生活。En: Zhiyuan takes a deep breath and slowly says, "I've always wanted to talk to you.Zh: ”白色的雾气盘旋在他们周围，像是将他们的心事也漂浮在空气中。En: But I was afraid of disturbing your life."Zh: “那时候，我们太年轻。En: The white mist swirls around them, as if carrying their inner struggles adrift in the air.Zh: 我不想再留下遗憾。En: "Back then, we were too young.Zh: ”丽娟终于鼓起勇气直视志远的眼睛。En: I don't want to leave any more regrets," Lijuan finally musters the courage to look Zhiyuan in the eye.Zh: 两人静默了一会儿，随后，志远微微一笑，仿佛解脱一般说：“是啊，是时候放下了。En: The two remain silent for a while, then Zhiyuan smiles faintly, as if relieved, and says, "Yes, it's time to let go.Zh: 过去的就让它过去吧。En: Let bygones be bygones."Zh: ”远处，梅琳的笑声传来，让他们的对话不再显得那么沉重。En: In the distance, Meilin's laughter reaches them, lightening the weight of their conversation.Zh: 丽娟释然了，她放下了多年来的疑虑，与志远的关系更进了一步。En: Lijuan feels relieved, having released the doubts she held for years, taking a step forward in her relationship with Zhiyuan.Zh: 当夜幕彻底降临，他们三个肩并肩走下山，灯笼的光在他们身后渐渐消逝。En: As night fully falls, the three descend the mountain shoulder-to-shoulder, the light from the lanterns gradually fading behind them.Zh: 丽娟与梅琳、志远在此收获了新的友情和理解，心中的温暖在这个特别的节日里更加深刻。En: Lijuan gained new friendship and understanding with Meilin and Zhiyuan, and the warmth in her heart deepened during this special festival.Zh: 在黄山的怀抱中，丽娟终于找到了她的平静与答案，学会了勇敢面对自己的情感，也意识到过去的完结是为了更好地出发。En: In the embrace of Huangshan, Lijuan finally found her peace and answers, learning to bravely face her own emotions, realizing that the end of the past is a preparation for a better start. Vocabulary Words:mysterious: 神秘enveloped: 显得lush: 苍翠interwoven: 交织picturesque: 如画descend: 下山afloat: 漂流sway: 摇曳rekindle: 重拾untangle: 理清complicated: 复杂exceedingly: 异常harboring: 藏着gradually: 渐渐adrift: 漂浮gentle: 轻柔relieved: 解脱faintly: 微微untangle: 理清intentely: 仔细地high school classmates: 高中同学realize: 意识preparation: 准备embrace: 怀抱emotion: 情感yearn: 渴望wishes: 愿望muster: 鼓起regrets: 遗憾bygones: 过去的事

Today's Episode:In China, “extra lessons” used to be everywhere—after school, weekends, even holidays! Then the government banned them. But did they really disappear? Let's dive into 补课, why it was stopped, and whether Chinese kids still secretly have them today.Membership Preview:In next MaoMi Chinese+ episode, we explore more about补课 in China by diving into real news headlines. Learn how native speakers express opinions, contrast ideas, and ask questions — all through short, punchy sentences from the news. Great grammar in action! Support MaoMi & Get exclusive   to premium content!https://www.buzzsprout.com/1426696/subscribe ↗️Transcript and translations are available on https://maomichinese.comInterested 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

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Secrets Under the Golden Glow: A Qixi Festival Mystery Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-08-24-22-34-02-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 正午的阳光洒在紫禁城的红墙与金顶上，仿佛为这座古老的宫殿镀上了一层金辉。En: The midday sun cast its light on the red walls and golden roofs of the Zijincheng, as if gilding the ancient palace with a layer of golden glow.Zh: 今天是七夕节，许多游客慕名前来，不仅为了节日的喜庆气氛，更为了看到那件刚展出的珍贵文物。En: Today is the Qixi Festival, and many tourists have come here, attracted not only by the festive atmosphere but also to see the newly exhibited precious artifact.Zh: 在展览厅里，博物馆的馆长——袁，紧张地四处巡查。En: In the exhibition hall, the museum's curator, Yuan, was nervously inspecting the surroundings.Zh: 他的工作压力很大，因为这次展览对于他的事业至关重要。En: The pressure of his job was immense because this exhibition was crucial for his career.Zh: 实习生连是个机灵的女孩，她希望今天能有所贡献。En: Lian, the intern, was a clever girl who hoped to make a contribution today.Zh: 保安波则站在一旁，默默观察着人群。En: Bo, the security guard, stood silently observing the crowd.Zh: 他在这儿工作多年，总是感觉自己被忽视。En: He had worked here for many years and constantly felt overlooked.Zh: 忽然，一声惊呼打破了大厅的宁静。En: Suddenly, a cry shattered the calmness of the hall.Zh: 有位游客发现，珍贵的文物不见了！En: A visitor had discovered that the precious artifact had disappeared!Zh: 袁的脸色瞬间变得苍白无比。En: Yuan's face turned extremely pale instantly.Zh: 他知道，这次如果找不回来，自己的前途堪忧。En: He knew that if he couldn't retrieve it, his future would be in jeopardy.Zh: 袁和连开始调查，但进展不顺。En: Yuan and Lian began their investigation, but progress was slow.Zh: 从一开始，袁就不太信任连，认为她太年轻缺少经验。En: From the start, Yuan did not quite trust Lian, thinking she was too young and inexperienced.Zh: 但连还是提出了她的怀疑，她感觉到某个地方有古怪。En: However, Lian voiced her suspicion, sensing something strange about a particular area.Zh: 波没有参与调查，因为他也觉得没人会听他的意见。En: Bo didn't join the investigation, as he felt no one would listen to him anyway.Zh: 随着吕氏和波氏的争论越发激烈，袁决定尝试相信连。En: As the argument between Yuan and Bo grew more intense, Yuan decided to try trusting Lian.Zh: 那天晚上，他们一起仔细检查展厅的每个角落。En: That night, they carefully examined every corner of the exhibition hall.Zh: 连突然发现，地板上有一块砖似乎有些松动。En: Suddenly, Lian noticed that a floor tile seemed loose.Zh: 她小心翼翼地推开，露出了一个秘密通道。En: She cautiously pushed it aside, revealing a hidden passage.Zh: 袁和连进入通道，惊讶地发现，文物就安全地躺在一旁。En: Yuan and Lian entered the passage and were stunned to discover that the artifact was safely lying there.Zh: 正当他们困惑为何文物会出现在这里时，波出现了。En: Just as they were puzzled over why the artifact appeared here, Bo showed up.Zh: 原来，当天晚上有人试图入侵展厅，波出于保护，提前用秘密通道转移了文物。En: It turned out that someone had attempted to break into the exhibition hall that night, and to protect the artifact, Bo had preemptively moved it using the secret passage.Zh: 袁对波产生了新的敬意，他明白波多年来的贡献与忠诚。En: Yuan developed newfound respect for Bo, realizing his years of contributions and loyalty.Zh: 他们一起策划了更好的安保措施，确保文物再也不会被轻易动摇。En: Together, they devised better security measures to ensure that the artifact would never be easily disturbed again.Zh: 这次事件使袁明白，信任同事的重要性。En: This incident taught Yuan the importance of trusting his colleagues.Zh: 展览在接下来的日子顺利进行，紫禁城仍然灯火辉煌。En: In the following days, the exhibition proceeded smoothly, and the Zijincheng remained ablaze with lights.Zh: 在这迎风摇曳的七夕夜，袁、连和波共同站在展览厅内，微笑地迎接着每一位来访者。En: On this breezy Qixi night, Yuan, Lian, and Bo stood together in the exhibition hall, smiling as they greeted each visitor. Vocabulary Words:midday: 正午cast: 洒gilding: 镀上exhibited: 展出的precious: 珍贵artifact: 文物curator: 馆长inspecting: 巡查intern: 实习生contribution: 贡献silently: 默默overlooked: 忽视shattered: 打破calmness: 宁静jeopardy: 堪忧investigation: 调查progress: 进展inexperienced: 缺少经验suspicion: 怀疑loose: 松动cautiously: 小心翼翼passage: 通道puzzled: 困惑preemptively: 提前devised: 策划measures: 措施disturbed: 动摇colleagues: 同事breezy: 迎风smiling: 微笑

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Whispers of the Past: A Stormy Quest for Lost Memories Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-08-23-22-34-01-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 天空阴沉，预示着一场暴风雨即将来临。En: The sky was overcast, hinting at an impending storm.Zh: 梁站在曾经的学校门前，思绪如这不稳定的天气一般混乱。En: Liang stood in front of his former school, his thoughts as tumultuous as the unstable weather.Zh: 多年前，这里充满了欢声笑语，如今却只剩下破碎的玻璃和倒塌的墙壁。En: Years ago, this place was filled with laughter and joy, but now only shattered glass and collapsed walls remain.Zh: 仲夏的季节，空气中弥漫着潮湿和腐朽的味道，四周安静得令人不安，只有远处的雷声隐隐作响。En: In the midsummer season, the air was thick with the smell of dampness and decay, and the surroundings were eerily quiet, save for the faint rumblings of distant thunder.Zh: “我们真的要进去吗？”云紧紧拉着梁的胳膊，担心地问。En: "Are we really going in?" Yun tightly clutched Liang's arm and asked worriedly.Zh: 他知道，尽管这里早已没人居住，但仍有未知的危险潜伏着。En: He knew that although no one lived here anymore, unknown dangers might still be lurking.Zh: “我必须找到那一页。”梁坚定地回答。En: "I have to find that page," Liang replied resolutely.Zh: 他的手中拿着一本旧笔记本，那是他与过去连接的纽带。En: In his hand was an old notebook, his tether to the past.Zh: 智的身影悄然而至。En: Zhi's figure appeared silently.Zh: 他是个神秘的人，总是说自己能和灵魂交流。En: He was a mysterious person who always claimed he could communicate with spirits.Zh: 今天恰逢中元节，智说，灵魂会在这一天重回人间寻找答案。En: Today, coinciding with the Zhongyuan Jie, Zhi said that souls would return on this day to seek answers.Zh: “灵魂们需要你去解答。”智的声音平静而深邃，他的眼睛盯着学校的深处。En: "The spirits need you to uncover answers," Zhi's voice was calm and profound, his eyes fixed on the depths of the school.Zh: 梁深吸一口气，点了点头。En: Liang took a deep breath and nodded.Zh: 他知道，时间不多了。En: He knew there was little time left.Zh: 三人走进破败的走廊，沙沙声在脚下回荡。En: The three of them walked into the dilapidated corridor, the rustling sounds echoing beneath their feet.Zh: 阳光勉强从破碎的窗户中洒进来，空气中浮动的灰尘犹如无形的幽灵。En: Sunlight barely streamed through the broken windows, and the dust floating in the air resembled invisible ghosts.Zh: 随着他们走入记忆深处的教室，墙上的黑板早已空白，如同被时间洗净了一般。En: As they stepped into a classroom deep within their memories, the blackboard on the wall was blank, as if cleansed by time.Zh: “就是这里。”梁的手指抚过一个老旧的课桌，这里曾经是他的角落。En: "This is it." Liang's fingers brushed across an old desk that used to be his corner.Zh: 然而，未等他开始翻找，暴风雨突然而至。En: However, before he could start searching, the storm abruptly arrived.Zh: 狂风卷起地上的杂物，房子摇摇欲坠。En: The fierce wind lifted debris from the ground, and the building trembled.Zh: 梁在慌乱中寻找那遗失的记忆。En: In the chaos, Liang searched for the lost memories.Zh: 就在此时，智闭上眼睛，轻声喃喃：“她说找到了，是一段未完成的告别。”En: At this moment, Zhi closed his eyes and murmured softly, "She says it's found, it's an unfinished farewell."Zh: 云盯着那些飘浮在空中的纸张，突然发现有一张纸慢慢掉落在梁的脚边。En: Yun gazed at the papers floating through the air and suddenly noticed one slowly descending at Liang's feet.Zh: 梁急忙捡起，那是某个夏日午后，一个关于爱与梦想的瞬间。En: Liang hurriedly picked it up; it was a moment from a summer afternoon, a fragment about love and dreams.Zh: 随着这个心底的片段重现，暴风雨也随之平息。En: As this fragment from the depths of his heart resurfaced, the storm subsided.Zh: 梁感受到一股前所未有的平静。En: Liang felt an unprecedented calm.Zh: “或许，过去并不需要解答。”他的语气平和，“重要的是心中的那份温暖。”En: "Perhaps, the past doesn't need answers," he said with serenity in his voice, "What's important is the warmth in our hearts."Zh: 云微微点头，他开始意识到，有些事物比生存更有意义。En: Yun nodded slightly, beginning to realize that some things are more meaningful than mere survival.Zh: 而智，在找到灵魂的答案后，重重地点了个头，似乎对两个新朋友感到满足。En: And Zhi, having found the answer for the spirits, nodded heavily, seemingly satisfied with his two new friends.Zh: 天边的乌云逐渐散去，阳光将废墟染成温暖的金色。En: The clouds in the sky gradually parted, and the sunshine painted the ruins a warm golden hue.Zh: 三人并肩站立，终于拥抱各自的内心，在这个被遗忘的地方，重拾珍贵的回忆与情谊。En: The three stood side by side, finally embracing their innermost selves, reclaiming precious memories and connections in this forgotten place. Vocabulary Words:overcast: 阴沉impending: 即将来临tumultuous: 混乱midsummer: 仲夏decay: 腐朽eerily: 令人不安lurking: 潜伏resolutely: 坚定地tether: 纽带coinciding: 恰逢profound: 深邃dilapidated: 破败resemble: 犹如fragment: 片段subside: 平息unprecedented: 前所未有serenity: 平和embrace: 拥抱connections: 情谊uncanny: 奇异debris: 碎片profound: 深刻answers: 解答reclaimed: 重拾innermost: 内心深处ominously: 不祥地perception: 感知unearth: 发掘revelation: 启示spectral: 幽灵般

No joke, here's the link the 2025 International Whisky Competition's Official Results:https://mandarin-kazoo-kz9n.squarespace.com/results  Check us out on Instagram @curiosity_publichttps://www.instagram.com/curiosity_public/ Watch us on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcplnOSfcnOh5paIL2LdaAw We have t-shirts! Grab them here:https://curiosity-public.myspreadshop.com/allhttps://www.redbubble.com/people/CuriosityPublic/shop Join our Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/CuriosityPublic Stay curious! All claims made here about alcohol, whether in this podcast, in this description, or on our Youtube channel, are solely our opinions and intended only for those of legal drinking age. All links provided here should only be accessed by those of legal drinking age.

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Souvenirs of Tradition: Discover Xiamen's Cultural Treasures Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-08-22-22-34-02-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 夏季的厦门海滩总是充满活力，金色的沙滩、熙熙攘攘的纪念品商店、混合着海洋和街头小吃的香气，让游客们流连忘返。En: The summer beaches of Xiamen are always full of life, with golden sands, bustling souvenir shops, and an aroma blending the sea and street snacks, enchanting visitors so much that they are reluctant to leave.Zh: 正值中元节的厦门更是热闹非凡，各种灯笼和节日装饰铺满了整个海滩。En: During the Zhongyuan Festival, Xiamen becomes even more lively, with lanterns and festival decorations adorning the entire beach.Zh: 莲站在海滩边，看着日落余晖洒在水面，心里充满了对这个陌生城市的好奇。En: Lian stood by the edge of the beach, watching the sunset casting its afterglow on the water, filled with curiosity about this unfamiliar city.Zh: 莲此次短暂的旅行让她有机会了解厦门的风土人情，但她面临一个小难题——该如何挑选一个既有意义又能够代表厦门文化的纪念品呢？En: Her brief trip provided her an opportunity to learn about Xiamen's customs and culture, but she faced a small dilemma—how to choose a souvenir that is both meaningful and representative of Xiamen culture?Zh: 商店里琳琅满目的纪念品令莲感到有些不知所措。En: The plethora of souvenirs in the shop left Lian feeling a bit overwhelmed.Zh: 她想要的不只是个普通的纪念品，而是一个能捕捉厦门独特魅力的物件。En: She wanted more than just an ordinary souvenir; she wanted something that captured the unique charm of Xiamen.Zh: 于是她走进一家小店，这家商店的门口挂着明亮的灯笼，在黄昏的光线中显得格外引人注目。En: So, she walked into a small shop, which had bright lanterns hanging at its entrance, appearing especially attractive in the dusk light.Zh: 店主人名名，是个当地人，微笑着欢迎莲的到来。En: The shop owner, Mingming, a local, welcomed Lian with a smile.Zh: 名名眼神中流露出温暖的好奇，似乎对每一个走进小店的人都充满了欢迎。En: His eyes radiated warmth and curiosity, seemingly welcoming every person who stepped into the shop.Zh: 他问道：“您好！您是不是在寻找特别的什么东西？”En: He asked, "Hello! Are you looking for something special?”Zh: 莲点点头，说：“是的，我想要找一个能够体现厦门和中元节的纪念品。”En: Lian nodded and said, "Yes, I want to find a souvenir that embodies Xiamen and the Zhongyuan Festival."Zh: 名名的眼睛亮了起来，他很高兴有人对他的家乡文化感兴趣。En: Mingming's eyes lit up, pleased that someone was interested in his hometown's culture.Zh: 他说：“要不，我给你讲个关于中元节和灯笼的故事吧。”En: He said, "How about I tell you a story about the Zhongyuan Festival and lanterns?"Zh: 莲对此充满了期待，她认真地听着。En: Lian was filled with anticipation and listened attentively.Zh: 名名讲述了一个动人的故事：在中元节期间，人们会在沙滩上点燃特制的灯笼，这不仅是为了祭奠，还象征着引领灵魂找到回家的路。En: Mingming recounted an evocative story: during the Zhongyuan Festival, people light specially made lanterns on the beach, not only to honor the deceased but also to symbolize guiding souls home.Zh: 这样的灯笼是用精心雕刻的竹子做成，灯光柔和而迷人。En: These lanterns are made from intricately carved bamboo, with a light that is soft and enchanting.Zh: “这就是为什么很多游客都会选择灯笼作为纪念品，”名名微笑着补充道。En: “That's why many visitors choose lanterns as souvenirs,” Mingming added with a smile.Zh: “它不仅美观，也是传统和故事的载体。”En: “They are not only beautiful but also carriers of tradition and stories.”Zh: 莲决定购买一个中元节特制的灯笼。En: Lian decided to purchase a lantern specially made for the Zhongyuan Festival.Zh: 她感到自己不仅买到了一个物品，更是收获了一段文化，和与名名这样一位能够讲述其背后故事的人的美好相遇。En: She felt that she had gained not just an object but also a piece of culture and a delightful encounter with someone like Mingming who could narrate the story behind it.Zh: 带着灯笼从店里走出来，莲感到心中安定了许多。En: Walking out of the shop with the lantern, Lian felt a sense of peace.Zh: 她明白，旅行不仅仅是为了拍些照片和买些纪念品，更重要的是去了解和感受当地的文化，通过与当地人的交流，从而让旅行更加充实和有意义。En: She understood that traveling isn't just about taking photos and buying souvenirs; it's more about understanding and experiencing the local culture, making the trip more fulfilling and meaningful through interactions with locals.Zh: 莲在夕阳中踏上返回的路程，带着她的灯笼和满满的回忆，带走了对厦门更深刻的理解和一种全新的旅行观。En: Lian began her journey back in the sunset, carrying her lantern and a heart full of memories, leaving with a deeper understanding of Xiamen and a renewed perspective on travel. Vocabulary Words:beaches: 海滩bustling: 熙熙攘攘aroma: 香气enchanted: 流连忘返adorn: 铺满curiosity: 好奇unfamiliar: 陌生dilemma: 难题plethora: 琳琅满目overwhelmed: 不知所措charm: 魅力dusk: 黄昏radiated: 流露embodies: 体现anticipation: 期待evocative: 动人honor: 祭奠symbolize: 象征intricately: 精心carved: 雕刻soft: 柔和enchanting: 迷人tradition: 传统encounter: 相遇understanding: 理解fulfilling: 充实meaningful: 有意义journey: 路程perspective: 观recited: 讲述

In this episode, we revisit our conversation with Norwegian champion Boye Brogeland. Boye talks to us about getting in the mood for bridge and the imperative to do what's right. Plus, he shares his top tip for developing players. But first, we kibitz!SUPPORT THE SHOW!!-Join the Sorry, Partner Posse at PATREON. Get AD-FREE episodes and other perks.-Check out the SORRY, PARTNER MERCH STORES.BE PART OF THE FUN ...-Join our MAILING LIST. We'll email you a link to every new episode and occasional other information.-Send your bridge stories and comments to sorrypartnerpodcast@gmail.com.-Or to @sorrypartnerpodcast on INSTAGRAM.Find our recommended books HERE.-Or send us a VOICE MESSAGE.These links are also available on our website at sorrypartner.comSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/sorry-partner. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Forging Unexpected Bonds: The Serenity of Forest Friendships Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-08-21-22-34-02-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 夏天的一个早晨，阳光透过茂密的树梢，洒在森林的地面上。En: One summer morning, sunlight filtered through the dense treetops, sprinkling onto the forest floor.Zh: 小鸟在树上欢快地叫着，空气中弥漫着松树的气息。En: Birds chirped happily in the trees, and the air was filled with the scent of pine.Zh: 森林充满了生机，给人带来无限的活力与希望。En: The forest was vibrant with life, bringing endless energy and hope to those who wander its paths.Zh: 小明走在森林的小径上。En: Xiaoming walked along a small path in the forest.Zh: 他是个爱好冒险的人，独自徒步是他享受自然的方式。En: He was someone who loved adventure; hiking alone was his way to enjoy nature.Zh: 然而，小明心里有个秘密。En: However, Xiaoming had a secret in his heart.Zh: 他渴望与人交流，分享他对大自然的热爱，但他的内向和对脆弱的恐惧常常让他无法开口。En: He longed to communicate with others and share his love for nature, but his introversion and fear of vulnerability often kept him silent.Zh: 就在这时，林出现在小径的一端。En: Just then, Lin appeared at one end of the path.Zh: 她是个开朗活泼的人，喜欢结交新朋友。En: She was cheerful and lively, enjoying making new friends.Zh: 这次独自来森林，是她放松心情、寻找乐趣的机会。En: Her visit to the forest alone was an opportunity to relax and seek fun.Zh: 她一眼就看到了小明，便友好地打起招呼：“你好！En: She spotted Xiaoming right away and greeted him warmly, "Hello!Zh: 也是来徒步的吗？En: Are you here for a hike too?"Zh: ”小明愣了愣，面对林的热情，他犹豫着是否该回应。En: Xiaoming was taken aback and hesitated on whether to respond to Lin's enthusiasm.Zh: 最终，他在心里叹了口气，轻声答道：“是啊，这里真美。En: Eventually, he sighed inwardly and replied softly, "Yes, it's so beautiful here."Zh: ”林笑着说：“对呀，每次看到这样的美景，我都觉得生活充满了惊喜。En: Lin smiled and said, "Yes, every time I see such beautiful scenery, I feel life is full of surprises."Zh: ”她的笑容让小明感到一丝温暖。En: Her smile brought Xiaoming a touch of warmth.Zh: 于是两人开始边走边聊。En: Thus, the two began to walk and chat together.Zh: 随着时间的推移，他们渐渐相熟。En: As time went by, they gradually became more familiar.Zh: 林分享了她徒步过程中遇到的趣事，而小明则慢慢打开了心扉，述说他对森林的喜爱和向往。En: Lin shared amusing stories from her hiking experiences, while Xiaoming slowly opened up, describing his love and longing for the forest.Zh: 终于，他们来到一个山峰，眼前的风景壮观无比。En: Finally, they reached a peak with an incredibly spectacular view.Zh: 小明内心受到触动，决定趁此机会面对自己的恐惧。En: Xiaoming was moved and decided to take this opportunity to face his fears.Zh: 他看着林，说：“我觉得能够和你分享这些真好。En: He looked at Lin and said, "I think it's really nice to share these moments with you."Zh: ”林点点头，温柔地回应：“我也很高兴认识你，小明。En: Lin nodded and gently responded, "I'm also very glad to have met you, Xiaoming."Zh: ”在这个避风的山顶，他们交换了生活的故事，发现了许多共同点。En: On this sheltered mountaintop, they exchanged stories of their lives and discovered many commonalities.Zh: 两人之间悄然形成了一种特别的联系，友谊的种子在这片茂密的森林中悄悄发芽。En: A special bond quietly formed between them, as the seed of friendship began to sprout in this lush forest.Zh: 从那天起，小明变得更加开朗，愿意去面对新朋友带来的未知和挑战。En: From that day on, Xiaoming became more cheerful, willing to face the unknowns and challenges new friends brought.Zh: 他懂得了，脆弱并不是弱点，而是通向人心深处的桥梁。En: He understood that vulnerability is not a weakness but a bridge to the depths of the human heart.Zh: 森林在阳光下熠熠生辉，就像他此刻的心情一样。En: The forest glistened under the sunlight, just like his mood at that moment. Vocabulary Words:filtered: 透过dense: 茂密的scenery: 美景vulnerability: 脆弱hesitated: 犹豫着introversion: 内向spectacular: 壮观无比chirped: 欢快地叫着vibrant: 充满生机wander: 走cheerful: 开朗aback: 愣了愣gradually: 渐渐peak: 山峰bond: 联系sprinkling: 洒glistened: 熠熠生辉amusing: 趣事longing: 向往opportunity: 机会enthusiasm: 热情sheltered: 避风inwardly: 在心里formed: 形成commonalities: 共同点path: 小径seed: 种子cheerful: 开朗adventure: 冒险bridge: 桥梁

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Unveiling Secrets: Meilin and Jian's Desert Discovery Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-08-20-22-34-02-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 在一个阳光灿烂的夏日，梅琳和健站在塔克拉玛干沙漠的边缘。En: On a bright summer day, Meilin and Jian stood at the edge of the Taklamakan Desert.Zh: 他们所在的学校正在进行一趟历史探险考察。En: Their school was conducting a historical exploration field trip.Zh: 周围的沙丘在烈日下闪烁，空气中弥漫着热浪。En: The surrounding sand dunes shimmered under the scorching sun, and the air was filled with heat waves.Zh: 正值七夕节，尽管这个节日通常与爱情有关，但梅琳和健的注意力都在沙漠中的神秘遗迹上。En: It was Qi Xi Jie, and although this festival is usually associated with love, Meilin and Jian were focused on the mysterious ruins in the desert.Zh: 梅琳是一名对古老商道充满好奇的高中生，她希望能在这次实地考察中找到一个独特而有意义的发现，以激发她撰写一个创新的暑假项目。En: Meilin, a high school student curious about ancient trade routes, hoped to make a unique and meaningful discovery on this field trip to inspire her to write an innovative summer project.Zh: 而健则是她的同班同学，他性格内向，但对考古充满热情，更多的是在关注如何保持水分和遵循老师的指导。En: Jian, her classmate, was introverted but passionate about archaeology, mostly concerned with staying hydrated and following the teacher's instructions.Zh: 然而，梅琳对未知世界的渴望让她的注意力不再集中在队伍上。En: However, Meilin's desire for the unknown led her to lose focus on the group.Zh: 突然，她看到远处有一座奇特的岩石结构。En: Suddenly, she spotted a peculiar rock formation in the distance.Zh: 这可能是一个被遗忘的历史证据。En: It could be forgotten historical evidence.Zh: 梅琳鼓起勇气，决定悄悄走出导游设定的路径，就在这时，她拉住了健的手臂。En: Gathering her courage, Meilin decided to quietly step off the guided path and tugged at Jian's arm. "Zh: "健，我们过去看看吧！En: Jian, let's go check it out!"Zh: "她轻声说道。En: she whispered.Zh: 健犹豫了一下，但经不住梅琳的坚持，最终点了点头。En: Jian hesitated for a moment but couldn't resist Meilin's persistence and finally nodded.Zh: 两人小心翼翼地朝那块岩石走去。En: The two of them cautiously approached the rock.Zh: 烈日炙烤着他们，汗水浸湿了他们的衣服，但梅琳的热情让她几乎忘记了不适。En: The blazing sun scorched them, and sweat soaked their clothes, but Meilin's enthusiasm made her almost forget the discomfort.Zh: 当他们到达岩石旁时，梅琳蹲下来，从沙子里挖出了一个小小的金属物体。En: When they reached the rock, Meilin crouched down and dug a small metallic object out of the sand.Zh: 那是一个古老的铜币，上面镌刻着看似来自丝绸之路时代的图案。En: It was an ancient copper coin inscribed with designs seemingly from the Silk Road era.Zh: 健瞪大了眼睛，紧接着，他的脸上也浮现出惊喜的神情。En: Jian's eyes widened, and immediately a look of surprise appeared on his face.Zh: “我们找到了什么了不起的东西！En: "We found something amazing!"Zh: ”梅琳兴奋地说。En: Meilin exclaimed excitedly.Zh: 两人小心地将铜币装进袋子里，急匆匆地返回队伍。En: They carefully placed the coin in a bag and hurried back to the group.Zh: 他们把这一发现告诉了同学和老师，立刻引发了一阵兴奋和好奇。En: Sharing their discovery with their classmates and teacher instantly sparked excitement and curiosity.Zh: 这次旅程后，梅琳意识到了团队合作的重要性，也明白了有时候需要倾听别人的声音。En: After this journey, Meilin realized the importance of teamwork and learned that sometimes it's essential to listen to others.Zh: 而健也因为这次经历，变得更加开放，享受起这样的冒险和即兴探索。En: Meanwhile, Jian, because of this experience, became more open and began to enjoy such adventures and spontaneous explorations.Zh: 夕阳西下，塔克拉玛干沙漠在金色光辉中显得静谧又神秘。En: As the sun set, the Taklamakan Desert bathed in golden light appeared tranquil and mysterious.Zh: 梅琳和健对着远处的沙丘，心中充满期待——还有更多的秘密等待他们去发现。En: Meilin and Jian looked at the distant sand dunes, filled with anticipation—there were still more secrets waiting for them to discover. Vocabulary Words:conducting: 进行exploration: 探险scorching: 炙烤festival: 节日associated: 有关curious: 好奇routes: 商道meaningful: 有意义discovery: 发现introverted: 内向hydrated: 保持水分instructions: 指导peculiar: 奇特formation: 结构courage: 勇气resist: 抵抗persistence: 坚持cautiously: 小心翼翼blazing: 烈日soaked: 浸湿crouched: 蹲下inscribed: 镌刻designs: 图案sparked: 引发curiosity: 好奇teamwork: 团队合作spontaneous: 即兴tranquil: 静谧anticipation: 期待secrets: 秘密

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: The Breath of Acceptance: Li Hua's Journey to Imperfection Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-08-19-22-34-02-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 烈日当空的下午，窗外的蝉声与教室里的窃窃私语交织成一片。En: On a scorching afternoon, the cicada sounds outside the window intertwined with the whispers in the classroom.Zh: 公立高中一年级的教室里，学生们围坐在桌旁，期待着一个重要的演示课。En: In the classroom of the first year of a public high school, students sat around the table, anticipating an important presentation class.Zh: 李华站在教室前面，她知道今天的演讲对她来说至关重要。En: Li Hua stood at the front of the classroom, knowing today's presentation was crucial for her.Zh: 这是她保持班级第一名的机会。En: This was her chance to maintain her top ranking in the class.Zh: 李华是个努力的学生，总喜欢把事情做到完美，但有时候，对自己也太过苛刻。En: Li Hua was a diligent student who always aimed for perfection, but sometimes, she was too hard on herself.Zh: “深呼吸，李华，放轻松。”她在心里告诉自己。En: "Take a deep breath, Li Hua, relax," she told herself silently.Zh: 今天，她要讲的是中国历史上的一个著名人物。En: Today, she was going to talk about a famous figure in Chinese history.Zh: 但就在这时，她感到胸口一阵压迫，呼吸变得急促。En: But just then, she felt a pressure in her chest, and her breathing became rapid.Zh: 她有哮喘病史，不过很少发作。En: She had a history of asthma, though it rarely acted up.Zh: 郑是她的同学，坐在前排，总是带着温暖的微笑。En: Zheng was her classmate, sitting in the front row, always with a warm smile.Zh: 他是个随和的人，乐于助人。En: He was an easy-going person, willing to help others.Zh: 虽然李华不常和他说话，但从心底里，她知道郑是一个可以依靠的朋友。En: Although Li Hua rarely spoke to him, deep down, she knew Zheng was someone she could rely on.Zh: 李华开始说话，声音微微颤抖。En: Li Hua started speaking, her voice slightly trembling.Zh: 她眼前闪过一阵黑影，感觉开始变得虚弱。En: A shadow flickered before her eyes, and she began to feel weak.Zh: 一瞬间，粉笔从她手中滑落，她捂着胸口不停地喘气。En: In an instant, the chalk slid from her hand, and she clutched her chest, gasping for breath.Zh: 班上的同学惊慌地看着她。En: The classmates looked at her in panic.Zh: “我要不要继续？”李华在心里挣扎，她心里只想着成绩。En: "Should I continue?" Li Hua struggled internally, her mind fixated only on her grades.Zh: 就在这时，郑站起身，走到她身边，他镇定地说道：“李华，你看起来不太好。让老师来帮忙吧。”En: At that moment, Zheng stood up, walked over to her, and calmly said, "Li Hua, you don't look well. Let's get the teacher to help."Zh: 李华迟疑了一下，但随着症状的加剧，她别无选择，只能点头。En: Li Hua hesitated for a moment, but as her symptoms worsened, she had no choice but to nod.Zh: 老师立刻带她去医务室，其他同学也纷纷围过来关心地问她没事吧。En: The teacher immediately took her to the infirmary, and other classmates gathered around, concernedly asking if she was okay.Zh: 过了片刻，护士为李华提供了吸入器。En: After a while, the nurse provided Li Hua with an inhaler.Zh: 她慢慢地呼吸，症状逐渐缓解。En: She breathed slowly, and her symptoms gradually eased.Zh: 医生建议她休息一会儿，等到感觉好点再回去。En: The doctor advised her to rest for a while and return when she felt better.Zh: 回到教室时，大家鼓励的眼神让李华心里暖暖的。En: When she returned to the classroom, the encouraging looks from everyone warmed Li Hua's heart.Zh: 她意识到，原来把自己的弱点展现出来，有时并不是件坏事。En: She realized that showing her vulnerabilities sometimes wasn't a bad thing.Zh: 老师和郑都对她说：“下次准备好后，我们再给你安排一次演讲。”En: The teacher and Zheng both told her, "Once you're ready, we'll reschedule your presentation."Zh: 李华含着泪微笑着，她感谢自己的同学，也学会了一个重要的道理：健康比所谓的完美更为重要。En: Li Hua smiled through tears, grateful for her classmates, and learned an important lesson: Health is more important than so-called perfection.Zh: 经过这件事情，李华明白，不必什么都自己一个人承担。En: After the incident, Li Hua understood that she didn't have to shoulder everything alone.Zh: 每个人都愿意帮助她。En: Everyone was willing to help her.Zh: 从那以后，李华开始慢慢接受别人的帮助。En: From then on, Li Hua began to slowly accept help from others.Zh: 她开始理解，自己的价值远不止于成绩上的表现。En: She started to understand that her worth was not solely based on academic performance.Zh: 在这个烦嚣的夏季，李华获得了一场难忘的成长。En: In this hectic summer, Li Hua experienced an unforgettable growth. Vocabulary Words:scorching: 烈日当空cicada: 蝉intertwined: 交织anticipating: 期待着diligent: 努力的perfection: 完美trembling: 颤抖flickered: 闪过inhaler: 吸入器infirmary: 医务室ease: 缓解vulnerabilities: 弱点reschedule: 安排grateful: 感谢shoulder: 承担unforgettable: 难忘的growth: 成长whispers: 窃窃私语crucial: 至关重要asthma: 哮喘病史pressure: 压迫gasping: 喘气panic: 惊慌struggled: 挣扎hesitated: 迟疑symptoms: 症状gradually: 逐渐concernedly: 关心地encouraging: 鼓励的worth: 价值

In this episode, we talk with Wu Hang, a Mandarin teacher in the UK, who shares his journey of guiding British teens through more than just vocabulary and grammar. He shows how learning Mandarin is also about understanding the humor, values, and rhythms of life that shape a culture. (03:53) Social media is reshaping how young learners connect with the Chinese language.(10:17) A fun connection between 西瓜 (xī guā｜watermelon) and 吃瓜 (chī guā｜literally "eat melon," but commonly used online to mean "grab popcorn").

The fastest way to learn to communicate in Chinese is to learn classroom expressions first. Master essential phrases that help you learn Mandarin without relying on English!#learnchinese #classroom #teaching #expressions #phrases #vocabularyLink to article on Hacking Chinese:  Classroom Mandarin: Essential expressions for learning Chinese in Chinese: https://www.hackingchinese.com/classroom-mandarin-essential-expressions-for-learning-chinese-in-chinese/Unlocking Chinese: The ultimate course for beginners: https://www.hackingchinese.com/courses/unlocking-chinese-ultimate-guide-beginner/Will a Chinese-only rule improve your learning? https://www.hackingchinese.com/are-chinese-only-rules-good-for-learning/Why you should learn Chinese in Chinese: https://www.hackingchinese.com/why-you-should-learn-chinese-in-chinese/Categories in the list:Ensuring comprehension and seeking clarification: https://www.hackingchinese.com/classroom-mandarin-essential-expressions-for-learning-chinese-in-chinese/#section1Lesson and learning activity flow: https://www.hackingchinese.com/classroom-mandarin-essential-expressions-for-learning-chinese-in-chinese/#section2Feedback and encouragement: https://www.hackingchinese.com/classroom-mandarin-essential-expressions-for-learning-chinese-in-chinese/#section3Talking about the Chinese Language in Chinese: https://www.hackingchinese.com/classroom-mandarin-essential-expressions-for-learning-chinese-in-chinese/#section4Online and technology-related phrases: https://www.hackingchinese.com/classroom-mandarin-essential-expressions-for-learning-chinese-in-chinese/#section5Formal education-specific phrases: https://www.hackingchinese.com/classroom-mandarin-essential-expressions-for-learning-chinese-in-chinese/#section6Everything in traditional characters: https://www.hackingchinese.com/classroom-mandarin-essential-expressions-for-learning-chinese-in-chinese/#tradMore information and inspiration about learning and teaching Chinese can be found  at https://www.hackingchinese.comMusic: "Traxis 1 ~ F. Benjamin" by Traxis, 2020 - Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution (3.0)

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Lanterns and Love: A Qixi Night Market Tale Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-08-18-22-34-01-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 上海的夜市在夏天特别热闹。En: The night market in Shanghai is especially lively in the summer.Zh: 灯笼高挂，光芒四射，空气里飘着牛肉串的香气和欢声笑语。En: Lanterns hang high, shining brightly, while the air is filled with the scent of beef skewers and joyful laughter.Zh: 在这个七夕节的晚上，年轻的摊主廉忙碌地在自己的摊位后面整理珠宝。En: On this Qixi Festival night, the young vendor Lian busily organizes jewelry behind his stall.Zh: 他卖的都是精心制作的手工饰品，其中有一个特别的项链，是他为岳准备的礼物。En: He specializes in selling meticulously crafted handmade accessories, among them a special necklace that he prepared as a gift for Yue.Zh: 廉一直以来都很喜欢岳，那个每周都会来市场的女孩。En: Lian has always liked Yue, the girl who visits the market every week.Zh: 她的笑容总是让市场变得更加明亮。En: Her smile always makes the market brighter.Zh: 然而，廉有些内向，不敢表达自己的心意。En: However, Lian is somewhat shy and has not dared to express his feelings.Zh: 今天是七夕节，廉决定鼓起勇气，在正好午夜时分的时候，把项链送给岳。En: Today is Qixi Festival, and Lian decides to summon the courage to present the necklace to Yue right at midnight.Zh: 然而事情并不如想象中顺利。En: However, things do not go as smoothly as imagined.Zh: 当天市场格外拥挤，人群涌动，所有人都在享受七夕的氛围。En: The market is exceptionally crowded that day, with throngs of people enjoying the Qixi ambiance.Zh: 廉发现那条精心制作的项链不见了！En: Lian discovers that the meticulously crafted necklace is missing!Zh: 他心急如焚，只能放下摊位，去市场中寻找。En: He is distraught and has no choice but to leave his stall to search the market.Zh: 幸好，明，廉的好友和同事，愿意帮忙。En: Fortunately, Ming, Lian's friend and colleague, is willing to help.Zh: “不要担心，我们一定能找到它。”明安慰着廉。En: “Don't worry, we will definitely find it.” Ming comforts Lian.Zh: 两人走遍了整个市场，询问了许多摊贩和顾客。En: The two of them search the entire market, asking many vendors and customers.Zh: 但一直没找到。En: But they haven't found it.Zh: 廉有些灰心，他怕再也无法见到那条项链。En: Lian feels a bit disheartened, afraid he might never see the necklace again.Zh: 他低下头，心想可能真是无缘。En: He lowers his head, thinking perhaps it really is fate.Zh: 就在时钟指向午夜的时候，明突然兴奋地冲着廉挥手。En: Just as the clock strikes midnight, Ming suddenly waves excitedly at Lian.Zh: 在一个不起眼的角落，项链静静地躺在那里。En: In an unnoticed corner, the necklace lies there silently.Zh: 廉急忙上前，小心翼翼地捡起它。En: Lian hurries forward, carefully picking it up.Zh: “快去找岳！”明催促道。En: "Go find Yue quickly!" Ming urges.Zh: 于是廉立刻跑向岳常常出现的地方，找到了她。En: So, Lian immediately runs to the place where Yue often appears and finds her.Zh: 他深吸一口气，小心地把项链递给她。En: He takes a deep breath and carefully offers her the necklace.Zh: “这是送给你的，七夕快乐。”廉说道，声音虽轻却充满诚意。En: "This is for you, happy Qixi." Lian says, his voice light yet filled with sincerity.Zh: 岳愣了一下，随即脸上露出幸福的微笑。En: Yue is momentarily stunned, then a happy smile appears on her face.Zh: “谢谢你，廉。这真漂亮。”岳看着他，眼神里充满了温暖和爱意。En: "Thank you, Lian. It's really beautiful." Yue looks at him, her gaze full of warmth and affection.Zh: 廉终于鼓起勇气，坦然说道：“我一直以来都很喜欢你。”En: Lian finally musters the courage to candidly say, "I've always liked you."Zh: 岳点了点头，“我也是。”En: Yue nods, "I do too."Zh: 廉的心跳加速，他明白了一个道理：有些事情，只有尝试过才知道结果。En: Lian's heart races, and he realizes a truth: some things only reveal their outcome once you've tried.Zh: 在那个星光闪烁的夜晚，他第一次感受到心中的勇气。En: On that starry night, he feels courage within his heart for the first time.Zh: 这次夜市之行不仅让廉找回了项链，更重要的是，他找到了属于自己的爱情。En: This trip to the night market not only allowed Lian to find the necklace but, more importantly, he found a love of his own. Vocabulary Words:lively: 热闹lanterns: 灯笼scent: 香气vendor: 摊主meticulously: 精心accessories: 饰品summon: 鼓起courage: 勇气ambiance: 氛围throngs: 人群disheartened: 灰心fate: 缘stunned: 愣sincerity: 诚意gaze: 眼神affection: 爱意musters: 鼓起candidly: 坦然shy: 内向strikes: 指向excitedly: 兴奋unnoticed: 不起眼carefully: 小心翼翼hurries: 急忙joyful: 欢声笑语brighter: 明亮colleague: 同事comforts: 安慰outcome: 结果reveal: 显露

Today's Episode:Feeling discouraged when others seem to learn faster than you? You're not alone. In this heartfelt episode of MaoMi Chinese, I share a listener's story, a memory from my classroom, and a message that might change the way you see your own progress.Membership Preview:Struggle with using comparison in Chinese? In next MaoMi Chinese+ episode, we break down useful comparison structures with real-life, relatable examples—from food and friends to jobs and journeys. Speak more naturally and confidently!Support MaoMi & Get exclusive   to premium content!https://www.buzzsprout.com/1426696/subscribe ↗️Transcript and translations are available on https://maomichinese.comInterested 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

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Unearthing Secrets: A Night of Discovery at Taibei Museum Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-08-17-22-34-01-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 台北的国家故宫博物院，在这个炎热的夏季充满了游客的脚步声。En: The Taibei National Palace Museum, during this scorching summer, was filled with the sound of visitors' footsteps.Zh: 高高的天花板，宽敞的展厅，到处摆放着精美的艺术品，讲述着千年的历史。En: High ceilings, spacious exhibition halls, and exquisite artworks everywhere told stories of thousands of years of history.Zh: 今天是七夕节，博物馆里一片热闹，En: Today was the Qixi Festival, and the museum was bustling.Zh: 每个人的脸上都挂着期待的神情。En: Everyone's face was filled with an expression of expectation.Zh: 明宇站在一件新展出的古老文物前，满脸兴奋。En: Mingyu stood in front of a newly exhibited ancient artifact, full of excitement.Zh: 他是一位充满激情的历史学家，总想从这些古物中探寻更深的真相。En: He was a passionate historian, always seeking to uncover deeper truths from these antiquities.Zh: 小丽则是他旁边的一名艺术品保护者，她致力于维护历史的完整性。En: Xiaoli was alongside him, an artifact conservator dedicated to preserving historical integrity.Zh: 明宇发现这个文物可能与一个不为人知的古代文明有关，他想写一篇突破性的论文来证明这一点。En: Mingyu discovered that this artifact might be related to an unknown ancient civilization, and he wanted to write a groundbreaking paper to prove it.Zh: “小丽，”明宇看着她，说：“这件文物不仅是一件艺术品，它可能是开启我们对古代文明新理解的钥匙。”En: "Xiaoli," Mingyu said, looking at her, "This artifact is not just a piece of art; it might be the key to a new understanding of ancient civilization."Zh: 小丽认真倾听，但仍然摇摇头反驳：“明宇，没有足够的证据来支持你的观点，这可能会动摇它的传统历史意义。”En: Xiaoli listened intently but still shook her head in disagreement, "Mingyu, there isn't enough evidence to support your point. This might shake its traditional historical significance."Zh: 他们在此问题上发生了激烈的争论。En: They had a heated debate over this issue.Zh: 然而，为了即将举办的博物馆展览活动，他们必须合作。En: However, for the upcoming museum exhibition event, they had to cooperate.Zh: 明宇决定面对面说服小丽，并提出晚上留下来讨论。En: Mingyu decided to persuade Xiaoli face-to-face and suggested staying late to discuss it further.Zh: 夜晚来临，博物馆里寂静无声，En: Night fell, and the museum was silent.Zh: 突然间，整个博物馆停电了。En: Suddenly, there was a power outage in the whole museum.Zh: 借着微弱的手电光，他们继续检查那件古老的文物。En: By the weak flashlight beam, they continued to examine the ancient artifact.Zh: 就在这时，一些隐藏的标记在手电的光照下显现出来。En: Just then, some hidden markings appeared under the flashlight's beam.Zh: 这些标记似乎印证了明宇的理论。En: These markings seemed to validate Mingyu's theory.Zh: “你看！”明宇惊呼，En: "Look!" Mingyu exclaimed.Zh: 小丽也难以置信地望着这些标记。En: Xiaoli also gazed at the markings in disbelief.Zh: 经过一番讨论，他们意识到这一发现无论对历史完整性还是新的理论探索都至关重要。En: After some discussion, they realized that this discovery was crucial both for the integrity of history and for new theoretical exploration.Zh: 两人决定联手，将这些新发现与传统的历史解释结合起来，在展览时一同分享。En: The two decided to join forces, combining these new discoveries with traditional historical interpretations to share them during the exhibition.Zh: 他们的合作为观众带来了一个全新的视角，既尊重了历史，也开拓了未来的研究可能性。En: Their collaboration brought the audience a fresh perspective that respected history and opened up possibilities for future research.Zh: 故事的结尾，明宇和小丽笑着握手，他们明白，合作可以带来更重大的发现。En: At the story's end, Mingyu and Xiaoli smiled and shook hands, understanding that cooperation could lead to more significant discoveries.Zh: 明宇也认识到，原来不同的视角结合，更能让历史更为丰富。En: Mingyu also realized that combining different perspectives could enrich history.Zh: 小丽则在保护历史完整的同时，也愿意接受新的解释。En: Xiaoli, while preserving historical integrity, was also willing to accept new interpretations.Zh: 这注定是一个难忘的七夕，在这个充满历史气息的博物馆。En: It was destined to be an unforgettable Qixi at this history-filled museum.Zh: 这一时刻，亿万年的文明与两颗求知若渴的心完美交织在一起。En: In this moment, an ancient civilization intertwined perfectly with two eager-to-learn hearts. Vocabulary Words:scorching: 炎热的exquisite: 精美的artifacts: 文物integrity: 完整性uncover: 探寻groundbreaking: 突破性的civilization: 文明disagreement: 反驳persuade: 说服outage: 停电flashlight: 手电hidden: 隐藏的markings: 标记validate: 印证collaboration: 合作perspective: 视角exploration: 探索shake: 动摇debate: 争论beam: 光束exclaim: 惊呼intently: 认真地theoretical: 理论上的audience: 观众destined: 注定intertwined: 交织possibilities: 可能性conservator: 保护者fascinated: 着迷的antiquities: 古物

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Liang's Market Adventure: Fresh Ingredients, Fresh Dreams Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-08-16-22-34-01-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 梁今天特别兴奋。En: Liang was particularly excited today.Zh: 他走进熙熙攘攘的市场，心里满是期待。En: As he walked into the bustling market, his heart was full of anticipation.Zh: 夏天的阳光洒在市场上，大家都在忙着采购新鲜的食材。En: The summer sun shone down on the market, and everyone was busy purchasing fresh ingredients.Zh: 旁边有一条长长的队伍，那是人们在排队进行投票。En: There was a long queue beside him, where people were lining up to vote.Zh: 这样的热闹场面，让梁觉得生活很有活力。En: Such a lively scene made Liang feel that life was very vibrant.Zh: 梁一边想象着晚上的家庭聚会，一边仔细挑选着每一个食材。En: While imagining the family gathering in the evening, Liang carefully selected each ingredient.Zh: 他想为家人准备一道传统的美味菜肴，并趁机宣布一个惊喜。En: He wanted to prepare a traditional delicious dish for his family and take the opportunity to announce a surprise.Zh: 然而，他发现市场上的供应却并不如往常。En: However, he found that the market's supply was not as ample as usual.Zh: 几个熟悉的摊位都因为供货延迟，蔬菜水果的选择变少了。En: Several familiar stalls had fewer choices of fruits and vegetables due to delivery delays.Zh: 梁稍微有些失望，他必须迅速做出决策。En: Liang felt slightly disappointed; he had to make a quick decision.Zh: "今天怎么了，这么多人都在抢购？" 美站在他旁边，也是为晚上的聚会准备食材。En: "What's going on today, why is everyone rushing to buy?" Mei stood next to him, also preparing to buy ingredients for the evening gathering.Zh: 陈也过来了，帮着挑选。En: Chen came over to help choose as well.Zh: "听说是因为最近供应紧张，大家赶着买好东西呢。" 陈一边说，一边拿起一个新鲜的茄子。En: "I heard it's because of recent supply tensions, everyone is rushing to get good stuff," Chen said while picking up a fresh eggplant.Zh: 梁皱起眉头。En: Liang frowned.Zh: 他想要最鲜嫩的食材，但现在看来，可选择的空间有限。En: He wanted the freshest ingredients, but it seemed that the options were limited.Zh: 这时，一个灵感闪过他的脑海——他记得有个本地农民的田地就在附近，也许能直接去那里买到最新鲜的菜。En: Then, a spark of inspiration flashed in his mind—he remembered there was a local farmer's field nearby; perhaps he could go there directly to buy the freshest produce.Zh: 他迅速决定不浪费时间。En: He quickly decided not to waste time.Zh: "我要去趟农场，你们在这里等我一会儿，" 梁对美和陈说，然后快步向市场外走去。En: "I'm going to the farm, wait for me here for a while," Liang said to Mei and Chen, then briskly walked out of the market.Zh: 烈日下，梁赶到了农民的田地。En: Under the blazing sun, Liang arrived at the farmer's field.Zh: 田地里果然有他需要的新鲜蔬菜。En: Indeed, there were fresh vegetables he needed in the field.Zh: 他与农民聊了几句，顺利买到了最好的食材。En: He chatted with the farmer for a few moments and managed to buy the best ingredients.Zh: 虽然时间紧张，但他心中充满了欣喜，这不仅仅是为了那个菜，也是因为他即将告诉家人他的新计划。En: Although time was tight, his heart was full of joy, not just for the dish but because he was about to share his new plan with his family.Zh: 回到家中，梁马上开始准备。En: Back home, Liang immediately began his preparations.Zh: 他把新的食材处理得恰到好处，做出了一道让家人啧啧称赞的传统美味。En: He handled the new ingredients perfectly, creating a traditional delicious dish that his family praised highly.Zh: 当家人们吃着他精心烹制的菜时，梁感到无比自豪。En: As his family ate the meticulously prepared dish, Liang felt immensely proud.Zh: “我有个好消息，”梁微笑着说，“我决定开一个小餐馆，让更多人尝到我们的传统味道。”En: "I have good news," Liang said with a smile, "I've decided to open a small restaurant so more people can taste our traditional flavors."Zh: 家人们都很惊讶，热烈地鼓掌支持他。En: His family was surprised and clapped enthusiastically in support.Zh: 梁知道，无论遇到什么困难，他都可以依靠他的家人和社区。En: Liang knew that no matter what difficulties he encountered, he could always rely on his family and community.Zh: 通过今天的经历，梁更加感受到了社区的重要。En: Through today's experience, Liang felt even more the importance of community.Zh: 新鲜的食材不仅滋养了他的家人，也滋养了他的梦想。En: Fresh ingredients not only nourished his family but also his dreams. Vocabulary Words:particularly: 特别anticipated: 期待bustling: 熙熙攘攘queue: 队伍lively: 热闹vibrant: 有活力gathering: 聚会purchase: 采购ample: 充足delays: 延迟disappointed: 失望tensions: 紧张frowned: 皱起眉头limited: 有限spark: 灵感inspiration: 灵感blazing: 烈chatted: 聊announced: 宣布meticulously: 精心enthusiastically: 热烈地support: 支持encountered: 遇到community: 社区nourished: 滋养dreams: 梦想preparations: 准备praised: 称赞opportunity: 机rely: 依靠

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Pigeons and Poker: A Night of Luck and Reckoning in Macau Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-08-15-22-34-02-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 澳门的夏夜，赌场里灯火辉煌，人声鼎沸。En: On a summer night in Macau, the casino was brilliantly lit, filled with the sounds of voices rising and falling.Zh: 人们聚集在桌旁，期待着一场命运的对决。En: People gathered around the tables, eagerly anticipating a showdown of fate.Zh: 魏玲座位对面是陈荣，面前是一堆崭新的筹码。En: Opposite Wei Ling was Chen Rong, with a pile of brand-new chips in front of him.Zh: 平静的神态下，陈荣心无旁骛，只专注于手中的牌。En: Despite his calm demeanor, Chen Rong was completely focused, concentrating solely on the cards in his hands.Zh: 而筹码旁边，调皮的笑脸是小梅，她是这桌游戏的发牌员。En: Next to the chips, with a playful smile, was Xiao Mei, the dealer of this game.Zh: 总是带着一丝玩笑的神情。En: She always wore a slightly teasing expression.Zh: 饿鬼节的气氛在空气中弥漫，似乎也给这场牌局增添了一份奇妙的色彩。En: The atmosphere of the Hungry Ghost Festival was pervasive in the air, seemingly adding a touch of wonder to the game.Zh: 却在这时，一只白色的鸽子无声滑过天花板，落在了桌角。En: But just then, a white pigeon silently glided over the ceiling, landing on the table's edge.Zh: 它四处张望，然后开始不紧不慢地啄起了散落的筹码。En: It looked around and then leisurely started to peck at the scattered chips.Zh: 魏玲顿时皱起了眉头，心中暗暗叫苦。En: Wei Ling immediately furrowed his brows, secretly lamenting.Zh: 他是个出名有点迷信的高手，深信任何干扰都会打破他的好运。En: He was a well-known superstitious expert, convinced that any disturbance would break his streak of good luck.Zh: 鸽子的到来似乎预示着什么。En: The arrival of the pigeon seemed to be an omen of sorts.Zh: 魏玲看着它一步步靠近自己，对着已经在它视线中的筹码，用力叹了口气。En: Wei Ling watched as it approached him step by step, targeting the chips already in its sight, and sighed heavily.Zh: 周围的人都在看他，期待他如何处理这突如其来的插曲。En: Everyone around was watching him, waiting to see how he would handle this sudden interruption.Zh: 此时，小梅笑着挤了挤眼睛，没有要驱赶鸽子的意思。En: At this moment, Xiao Mei winked with a smile, showing no intention to chase the pigeon away.Zh: 她像是很享受这场免费的演出。En: She seemed to enjoy this free show.Zh: 魏玲深吸一口气，心想，或许这是一个试炼，是考验他是否如外界所传的那样依赖于运气。En: Wei Ling took a deep breath, thinking perhaps this was a trial, a test to see whether he truly relied on luck as much as people said.Zh: 就在鸽子步步紧逼，准备纵身一跃至魏玲的筹码堆时，他做出了一个勇敢的决定：“无论如何，我要赢这局。”En: Just as the pigeon was about to leap towards Wei Ling's pile of chips, he made a bold decision: "No matter what, I will win this round."Zh: 威士忌的决心让他镇定下来，他闭上眼睛，深呼吸，再睁开时目光坚定。En: The determination steadied him, and he closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and reopened them with a firm gaze.Zh: 鸽子一脚踏上了筹码塔，而魏玲，瞟了眼手中的牌，微笑着打出最后一张。En: The pigeon set foot on the stack of chips, and Wei Ling, after glancing at the cards in his hand, smiled and played the last one.Zh: 他赢了这局，赢得了满堂喝彩，也赢来了内心的一份信心。En: He won the round, earning a roomful of applause and a newfound sense of confidence.Zh: 他意识到，胜利更多靠的不是运气，而是自己的智慧与决心。En: He realized that victory depended more on his own intelligence and determination than on luck.Zh: 正当他享受胜利时，保安终于把定睛在赌桌上的鸽子赶走。En: As he was enjoying his victory, security finally chased away the pigeon fixated on the gaming table.Zh: 魏玲微笑着看着离开的鸽子，仿佛是一位与自己共度奇妙夜晚的老朋友。En: Wei Ling smiled as he watched the departing pigeon, as if it were an old friend who shared a wonderful night with him.Zh: 从那以后，魏玲不再过于强调牌桌上的那些习惯和迷信，他学会相信自己。En: From that point on, Wei Ling no longer placed undue emphasis on superstitions and habits at the gaming table, learning to trust himself.Zh: 灯光熠熠的赌场，依旧是那个熙攘的澳门，但对于他而言，却多了一份轻松和自信。En: The casino, still bustling and lively in Macau, became a place where he felt more relaxed and self-assured.Zh: 他知道，无论鸽子是否再来，自己都能面对。En: He knew that regardless of whether the pigeon returned, he could face it all. Vocabulary Words:brilliantly: 辉煌showdown: 对决demeanor: 神态pervasive: 弥漫omen: 预示furrowed: 皱起lamenting: 叫苦superstitious: 迷信的trial: 试炼determination: 决心interrupt: 插曲gaze: 目光applause: 喝彩confidence: 信心victory: 胜利scatter: 散落rely: 依赖habit: 习惯concentrating: 专注anticipating: 期待gathered: 聚集teasing: 玩笑的wonder: 奇妙leisurely: 不紧不慢steadied: 镇定departing: 离开intelligence: 智慧self-assured: 自信bustling: 熙攘fixated: 定睛

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Finding Light: A Project Manager's Unexpected Summer Revelation Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-08-14-22-34-02-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 江伟是一个勤奋的项目经理，在一家大型公司里工作。En: Jiang Wei is a diligent project manager working at a large company.Zh: 夏天的办公室，空调嗡嗡作响，电脑屏幕的光在疲惫的眼睛上散开。En: In the summer office, the air conditioner hums, and the light from the computer screen spreads across her tired eyes.Zh: 快到七夕节了，江伟的心中充满了期待和紧张。En: With the Qixi Festival approaching, Jiang Wei feels both anticipation and anxiety.Zh: 最近，她负责一个重要项目，而同事张敏一直在竞争同一个升职机会。En: Recently, she has been in charge of an important project, while her colleague, Zhang Min, has been competing for the same promotion opportunity.Zh: 一天晚上，办公室里只剩下几个人。En: One evening, only a few people were left in the office.Zh: 江伟加班完成报告，她感到压力山大。En: Jiang Wei was working overtime to complete a report, feeling immense pressure.Zh: 她想，生活中似乎只有工作和竞争。En: She thought that life seemed to be only about work and competition.Zh: 就在此时，她注意到了一个正在调试电脑的人——刘明。En: Just then, she noticed someone debugging a computer—Liu Ming.Zh: 刘明是公司的IT专家，性格开朗，总是带着笑容。En: Liu Ming was the company's IT expert, always cheerful, and smiling.Zh: 这天，他恰好也在加班。En: He happened to be working overtime that day too.Zh: 刘明看到江伟，于是走了过来，“你还没走啊？”En: Seeing Jiang Wei, he walked over, "You haven't left yet?"Zh: 江伟叹了口气。“这项目太重要了，我得赶快完成。”En: Jiang Wei sighed. "This project is too important; I have to finish it quickly."Zh: 刘明微笑着说：“如果需要帮忙，尽管说。”En: Liu Ming smiled and said, "If you need help, just let me know."Zh: 正当刘明说话时，整栋楼突然陷入了黑暗。En: As Liu Ming was speaking, the entire building suddenly plunged into darkness.Zh: 停电了！En: There was a power outage!Zh: 只剩应急灯微弱的光。他们不得不中断手中的工作。En: Only the faint light of emergency lamps remained, forcing them to pause their work.Zh: 在那微光中，江伟和刘明坐下来。En: In that dim light, Jiang Wei and Liu Ming sat down.Zh: 初次，他们有机会好好聊天。En: For the first time, they had the chance to have a proper conversation.Zh: 刘明谈起了自己的家庭和梦想，江伟听得出神。En: Liu Ming talked about his family and dreams, and Jiang Wei listened intently.Zh: 她从没想过，朴实的幸福可以这样简单而真实。En: She had never imagined that simple happiness could be so genuine and real.Zh: 江伟也敞开了心扉，倾诉了自己的压力和迷茫。En: Jiang Wei also opened up, sharing her stress and confusion.Zh: 刘明认真地听着，递给她一杯温水。En: Liu Ming listened attentively and handed her a cup of warm water.Zh: “你很厉害，”刘明轻声说，“但有时候，也许努力生活比努力工作更重要。”En: "You're amazing," Liu Ming said softly, "but sometimes, maybe living life well is more important than working hard."Zh: 这句话，让江伟若有所思。En: These words made Jiang Wei thoughtful.Zh: 她从没意识到自己一直在追求的，正是这种简单的联系和温暖。En: She had never realized that she had been pursuing exactly this kind of simple connection and warmth.Zh: 停电持续了一阵。En: The power outage lasted for a while.Zh: 终于，灯光又亮起来，仿佛一切恢复正常。En: Finally, the lights came back on, as if everything had returned to normal.Zh: 但在江伟心中，一切已不再一样。En: But in Jiang Wei's heart, everything had changed.Zh: 她决定尝试打破一成不变的工作节奏，去发现生活中的美好。En: She decided to try breaking the monotonous work routine and discover the beauty in life.Zh: 七夕节那天，江伟和刘明一起去附近的公园散步。En: On the day of Qixi Festival, Jiang Wei and Liu Ming went for a walk in a nearby park.Zh: 夜空中星星闪烁，江伟第一次感受到心中充满了平静和期待。En: Stars twinkled in the night sky, and for the first time, Jiang Wei felt her heart filled with peace and anticipation.Zh: 经过这次经历，江伟明白了，工作固然重要，但人生中还有更值得珍惜的东西。En: After this experience, Jiang Wei understood that while work is important, there are even more precious things in life.Zh: 在不断奔波与追求中，她找到了一份意外的温暖。En: Amidst the constant hustle and pursuit, she found an unexpected warmth.Zh: 在这个特别的夏天，她决定让自己的人生变得更加丰满、有意义。En: This special summer, she decided to make her life more fulfilling and meaningful.Zh: 生活并不总是像办公楼的灯光那么耀眼，有时候，只要身边有一个能聆听和理解的人，日子就会有光和色彩。En: Life isn't always as dazzling as the lights in an office building; sometimes, just having someone by your side who can listen and understand brings light and color to the days.Zh: 江伟与刘明携手开启了一段新的旅程，在这条路上，她学会了勇敢地面对自己，拥抱生活与爱。En: Jiang Wei and Liu Ming embarked on a new journey together, and along the way, she learned to face herself bravely and embrace life and love. Vocabulary Words:diligent: 勤奋的anticipation: 期待anxiety: 紧张competing: 竞争immense: 巨大debugging: 调试cheerful: 开朗的plunged: 陷入faint: 微弱的emergency: 应急intently: 出神地genuine: 真实confusion: 迷茫attentively: 认真地monotonous: 一成不变的twinkled: 闪烁fulfilling: 丰满的dazzling: 耀眼的hustle: 奔波embrace: 拥抱opportunity: 机会promotion: 升职pressure: 压力routine: 节奏unexpected: 意外的journey: 旅程overwhelmed: 不堪重负的complex: 复杂的appreciation: 欣赏tranquil: 平静

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Finding Love and Inspiration: Mei's Photographic Journey Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-08-13-22-34-02-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 梅喜欢摄影，她常常拿着相机到外面拍照。En: Mei loves photography, and she often takes her camera outside to take pictures.Zh: 但是，她总觉得自己的作品不够好。En: However, she always feels her work isn't good enough.Zh: 这是一个夏天的下午，阳光明媚。梅决定要去外滩寻找灵感。En: One sunny summer afternoon, Mei decided to go to the Bund to seek inspiration.Zh: 外滩是上海有名的地方，可以看到美丽的天际线。En: the Bund is a famous place in Shanghai, where you can see a beautiful skyline.Zh: 梅希望能拍出一组展现现代上海魅力的照片。En: Mei hoped to capture a collection of photos that showcases the charm of modern Shanghai.Zh: 梅到达外滩时，看到了很多人。En: When Mei arrived at the Bund, she saw many people.Zh: 她把相机挂在脖子上，自信地走进人群中。En: She hung the camera around her neck and confidently walked into the crowd.Zh: 她的好朋友小花一直鼓励她大胆尝试，En: Her good friend Xiaohua always encouraged her to try boldly.Zh: 小花说：“今天你一定会有不同的收获！”En: Xiaohua said, "Today you will surely have different benefits!"Zh: 就在这个时候，梅注意到一个男孩也在拍照。En: Just then, Mei noticed a boy also taking photos.Zh: 他叫李军，是一位充满魅力的导游。En: His name was Li Jun, a charming tour guide.Zh: 他不时地和游客交谈，给他们讲上海的故事。En: He was chatting with tourists from time to time, telling them stories of Shanghai.Zh: 李军的梦想是用电影讲述上海的精彩。En: Li Jun's dream was to tell the wonders of Shanghai through film.Zh: 他也和梅有同样的烦恼，想追求梦想却需要生活。En: He also shared Mei's concern of pursuing dreams while needing to make a living.Zh: 李军看到了梅，他微笑着走过去说：“你的相机会拍出什么美好瞬间呢？”En: Li Jun saw Mei, and smiling, he walked over and said, "What beautiful moments will your camera capture?"Zh: 梅脸微微一红，回答：“我想拍出展现上海活力的照片。”En: Mei's face reddened slightly, and she replied, "I want to capture photos that showcase Shanghai's vitality."Zh: 之后，两人很快聊起了摄影和对上海的热爱。En: Afterward, the two quickly started chatting about photography and their love for Shanghai.Zh: 李军邀请梅参加一个摄影聚会，这是小花介绍给她的。En: Li Jun invited Mei to a photography gathering that Xiaohua had introduced to her.Zh: 梅犹豫了一下，想起自己内心的害怕，但最后决定尝试。En: Mei hesitated, recalling her inner fears, but finally decided to give it a try.Zh: 几周后，七夕节到了。En: A few weeks later, the Qixi Festival arrived.Zh: 梅和李军在外滩合作一个摄影项目。En: Mei and Li Jun collaborated on a photography project at the Bund.Zh: 他们一起捕捉城市的美丽瞬间，不知不觉中，他们之间的互动加深了对彼此的了解。En: They captured the city's beautiful moments together, and unwittingly, their interactions deepened their understanding of each other.Zh: 在这次合作中，梅发现了从未有过的自信。En: Through this collaboration, Mei discovered a confidence she had never had before.Zh: 而李军也决定把更多时间放在自己的创作上，En: And Li Jun decided to dedicate more time to his own creative projects.Zh: 他们的梦想和努力让他们更接近彼此。En: Their dreams and efforts brought them closer to each other.Zh: 最后，梅的照片系列受到很多人的喜爱和认可，她心中的喜悦无以言表。En: In the end, Mei's photo series was loved and recognized by many, and the joy in her heart was beyond words.Zh: 故事的结尾是，梅和李军开始了新的恋情，两人在工作中也各自找到了新的灵感。En: The story concludes with Mei and Li Jun starting a new relationship, each finding new inspiration in their work.Zh: 他们相互支持，一同成长，梅变得更加自信，李军也更加专注于自己的创意梦想。En: They support each other and grow together; Mei became more confident, and Li Jun focused more on his creative dreams.Zh: 在上海的夜空下，他们的故事才刚刚开始。En: Under the night sky of Shanghai, their story has just begun. Vocabulary Words:photography: 摄影capture: 捕捉confidence: 自信charm: 魅力inspiration: 灵感vitality: 活力reconcile: 和解collaborate: 合作interaction: 互动recognize: 认可acquire: 获得dedicate: 奉献creative: 创意reflection: 反思translate: 翻译showcase: 展示pursue: 追求moment: 瞬间unwittingly: 不知不觉tourist: 游客encourage: 鼓励hesitate: 犹豫dream: 梦想project: 项目dedicate: 奉献series: 系列beyond: 超越support: 支持growth: 成长festival: 节日

Stef's kids are back in school and Stef has the opposite of a teacher complaint. Lynette is getting some quality time with Sonny and Stef and Lynette feel they should stay far away from math.Learn more about Function Health and join using our link. Visit www.functionhealth.com/FCOL.For awesome meals and snacks go to ThriveMarket.com/FCOL and start saving today. Sale ends 8/31Find out why Nutrafol is the best-selling hair growth supplement brand at Nutrafol dot com promo code FCOL. Go to Quince dot com slash fcol for free shipping on your order and three hundred and sixty-five -day returns

In this episode of NucleCast, Adam interviews Michael Casey, a former DIA analyst, about the modernization of China's military, particularly its command-and-control systems and nuclear strategy. They discuss the evolution of China's military capabilities, the challenges it faces in integrating new technologies, and the implications of its ambitions for global dominance. The conversation also touches on the potential risks of AI in military applications and the need for greater focus on C4ISR issues in defense analysis.Michael Casey is a defense technology consultant and the author of the 'Orders and Observations' Substack, where he provides in-depth analysis of the Chinese military. He previously served for eight years as a Defense Intelligence Agency intelligence officer, focusing on PLA C4ISR, space systems, and emerging technologies. He is a specialist in Mandarin-language open-source intelligence and has briefed senior leaders across the Department of Defense and the U.S. government on Chinese military modernization.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Michael Casey and C4ISR02:04 China's Military Modernization and Command Control07:30 Challenges in Chinese Nuclear Command and Control14:48 Shifts in China's Nuclear Strategy18:56 China's Global Ambitions and Strategic Goals21:25 Potential Challenges and Internal Dynamics27:03 Wishes for the Future of Global SecuritySocials:Follow on Twitter at @NucleCastFollow on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/nuclecastpodcastSubscribe RSS Feed: https://rss.com/podcasts/nuclecast-podcast/Rate: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nuclecast/id1644921278Email comments and topic/guest suggestions to NucleCast@anwadeter.org

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: A Farewell in Beijing: Chasing Dreams Beyond Borders Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-08-12-22-34-02-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 北京首都国际机场的大厅里，行人匆匆。En: In the hall of Beijing Capital International Airport, travelers hurried about.Zh: 咖啡的香气在空气中飘荡，行李箱的滚轮在地板上轻轻划过。En: The aroma of coffee floated in the air, and the wheels of suitcases glided softly over the floor.Zh: 八月的阳光从窗户洒进来，给这繁忙的下午增添了一丝温暖的感觉。En: The August sunshine streamed in through the windows, adding a touch of warmth to the busy afternoon.Zh: 在一个角落里，连和小宁站在一起，脸上带着复杂的表情。En: In one corner, Lian and Xiao Ning stood together with complex expressions on their faces.Zh: 连刚刚在海外找到了一份新工作，准备离开北京。En: Lian had just found a new job overseas and was preparing to leave Beijing.Zh: 小宁是连最好的朋友，虽然心里充满不舍，但她知道，这对连来说是个重要的机会。En: Xiao Ning was Lian's best friend, and although her heart was full of reluctance, she knew this was an important opportunity for Lian.Zh: “连，你一定可以的。”小宁微笑着，对连说道。En: "Lian, you can definitely do it," Xiao Ning said with a smile.Zh: 她希望自己的话能给连信心，同时掩饰自己心中的忧伤。En: She hoped her words would give Lian confidence while hiding her own sadness.Zh: 连点了点头，心里却有些矛盾。En: Lian nodded, but felt a bit conflicted inside.Zh: 她对即将到来的新生活感到兴奋，却也担心自己的决定是否正确。En: She was excited about the new life ahead but also worried whether her decision was correct.Zh: 她舍不得这片熟悉的土地和身边的朋友，但她知道，这是她追逐梦想的一部分。En: She was reluctant to leave this familiar land and her friends, but she knew this was part of chasing her dreams.Zh: 广播里传来了最后登机的提醒，连的心跳得更快了。En: The final boarding call echoed over the speakers, and Lian's heart beat faster.Zh: 她差点就想放弃，留在北京。En: She almost wanted to give up and stay in Beijing.Zh: 就在这时，小宁握住了她的手。En: Just then, Xiao Ning took her hand.Zh: “连，你知道吗？”小宁的声音轻轻的，却很坚定，“无论你去哪里，我都会为你加油。En: "Lian, do you know?" Xiao Ning said softly but firmly, "No matter where you go, I'll be cheering for you.Zh: 追逐梦想的人，总是最勇敢的。”En: Those who chase their dreams are always the bravest."Zh: 连深吸一口气，她知道小宁说得对。En: Taking a deep breath, Lian knew that Xiao Ning was right.Zh: 这是她追求的机会，她不能退缩。En: This was her chance to pursue her dreams, and she couldn't back down.Zh: 她给了小宁一个大大的拥抱，然后拿起行李走向登机口。En: She gave Xiao Ning a big hug, then picked up her luggage and headed to the boarding gate.Zh: “再见，小宁。”连挥了挥手，泪水在眼中闪烁。En: "Goodbye, Xiao Ning," Lian waved, tears glistening in her eyes.Zh: “我们一定会再见的。”小宁站在原地，目送连的背影消失在登机口。En: "We'll definitely meet again," Xiao Ning stood there, watching Lian's figure disappear into the boarding gate.Zh: 她的心里虽然有些沉重，但更多的是骄傲和对朋友的祝福。En: Her heart felt heavy, but she was filled more with pride and well-wishes for her friend.Zh: 当飞机缓缓离地，升空飞向远处的天空时，小宁知道，连会迈向一个更美好的未来。En: As the plane gradually took off, soaring into the distant sky, Xiao Ning knew Lian was embarking on a brighter future.Zh: 而她，也在这个告别中学会了支持朋友的梦想。En: And she herself had learned how to support a friend's dreams through this farewell.Zh: 在这个夏天的下午，两个朋友用自己的方式找到了新的力量。En: On this summer afternoon, the two friends found new strength in their own ways.Zh: 虽然世界很大，但心距彼此从未远离。En: Though the world is vast, their hearts never drift far apart. Vocabulary Words:hall: 大厅airport: 机场aroma: 香气glided: 划过streamed: 洒进来complex: 复杂overseas: 海外opportunity: 机会reluctance: 不舍confidence: 信心hiding: 掩饰conflicted: 矛盾familiar: 熟悉chasing: 追逐final: 最后boarding: 登机call: 提醒cheering: 加油bravest: 勇敢pursue: 追求luggage: 行李glistening: 闪烁embarKing: 迈向farewell: 告别soaring: 升空distant: 远处strength: 力量drift: 漂移vast: 很大figure: 背影

ANDRE MORGAN is a globe-trotting film and television producer. Fluent in Mandarin, Andre was CEO of Golden Harvest in Hong Kong, working with Raymond Chow to expand it into one of the largest film businesses in Asia, launching the international careers of Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, director John Woo, and others. Later, Andre partnered with GODFATHER producer Albert S. Ruddy to produce over 40 movies and 400 TV hours, including Best Picture Oscar MILLION DOLLAR BABY, CANNONBALL RUN, MARTIAL LAW and WALKER: TEXAS RANGER.  Host Jason E. Squire is Editor of The Movie Business Book and Professor Emeritus, USC School of Cinematic Arts. Music: “The Day it All Began and it All Ended” by Pawel Feszczuk (License: CC by 4.0). 

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Unearthing Secrets: The Terracotta Warriors' Hidden Stories Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-08-11-22-34-02-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 骄阳似火的夏日里，丽华和明在西安的兵马俑遗址，周围是一片繁忙的考古活动现场。En: On a scorching summer day, Lihua and Ming were at the Xi'an Terracotta Warriors site, surrounded by a bustling archaeological scene.Zh: 烈日将每一位陶俑的轮廓勾勒得更加清晰，像是历史的亡灵在守护着这片土地。En: The blazing sun outlined every terracotta warrior more clearly, like spirits of history guarding this land.Zh: 丽华是一个充满抱负的历史学家，心中一直有个伟大的梦想，希望能在学术界留下一笔。En: Lihua is an ambitious historian with a great dream in her heart, hoping to leave a mark in the academic world.Zh: 她自信，但有时也会质疑自己的重要性。En: She's confident, but sometimes she also questions her own significance.Zh: 这次，她要寻找一条突破口——关于兵马俑制造的万年谜题。En: This time, she wants to find a breakthrough — the millennia-old mystery of the Terracotta Warriors' creation.Zh: 然而，她的同伴明却是个老道的学者，对古建筑情有独钟。En: However, her companion, Ming, is a seasoned scholar with a passion for ancient architecture.Zh: 他的坚韧和智慧使他在这个领域颇有声望，但他有点固执，尤其是对于历史的传统解读。En: His perseverance and wisdom have earned him quite a reputation in this field, but he is a bit stubborn, especially when it comes to traditional interpretations of history.Zh: 丽华说：“明，我们应该试着用这里的新发现，解释一些旧的问题。”En: Lihua said, "Ming, we should try to use the new discoveries here to explain some old problems."Zh: 然而，明皱着眉头，慢慢地说：“丽华，新的发现要小心处理，不能随便地挑战已有的结论。”En: However, Ming frowned and slowly said, "Lihua, new discoveries must be handled with care; we can't casually challenge existing conclusions."Zh: 一天，他们发现了一些雕塑上精细的雕刻痕迹，似乎隐藏着不为人知的秘密。En: One day, they discovered some intricate carving marks on the sculptures, seemingly hiding unknown secrets.Zh: 丽华决心独辟蹊径，按自己的想法来破译这些信息，即便这意味着要冒险。En: Lihua was determined to find a unique path and decipher this information according to her ideas, even if it meant taking risks.Zh: “我们可能要尝试不同的方式。”En: "We might need to try different approaches."Zh: 丽华心生一计，决定探索一个此前无人敢触及的地方。En: A plan formed in Lihua's mind as she decided to explore a place no one had dared to touch before.Zh: 她设想那里可能有重要的线索。En: She imagined there might be important clues there.Zh: 然而，明担心破坏考古规矩，试图劝她再三考虑。En: However, Ming was worried about breaking archaeological rules and tried to persuade her to reconsider.Zh: 夜晚降临时，考古现场渐渐安静下来。En: As night fell, the archaeological site gradually quieted down.Zh: 抓住时机，丽华借助手电的微光，悄悄进入了一个隐秘的通道。En: Seizing the opportunity, Lihua, with the dim light of a flashlight, quietly entered a hidden passage.Zh: 这里凉意袭人，墙壁上刻满了古老的文字。En: It was chilly here, and the walls were covered with ancient writings.Zh: 就在丽华静心观察时，脚下一声响动，土石开始松动，仿佛一个意外的地陷即将吞没她的新发现。En: While Lihua was observing carefully, there was a sound beneath her feet, and the earth and stones began to loosen, as if an unexpected sinkhole was about to swallow her new discovery.Zh: 惊慌之中，明赶到并帮助她脱困。En: In panic, Ming arrived and helped her escape the peril.Zh: 尽管面临险境，他们依然齐心协力，用聪慧和技术保存住了那些宝贵的文物。En: Despite facing danger, they worked together to use their intelligence and skills to preserve those precious artifacts.Zh: 这次的经历，让丽华对自己的能力充满信心，她也领悟到智慧的合作是何等重要。En: This experience filled Lihua with confidence in her abilities, and she realized the importance of intelligent collaboration.Zh: 同时，明也开始理解，新的见解有可能给他的研究带来活力。En: Meanwhile, Ming also began to understand that new insights might invigorate his research.Zh: 通过合作和理解，丽华和明综合了传统与创新的智慧，终于将这个突破性的发现公之于世。En: Through cooperation and understanding, Lihua and Ming combined the wisdom of tradition and innovation, finally bringing their groundbreaking discovery to the public.Zh: 兵马俑的沉默历史，如同他们初次见面时一样，依然矗立在阳光下，静默无声，等待着下一次人类的探索与解读。En: The silent history of the Terracotta Warriors stood under the sun, just like when they first met, still and silent, waiting for the next exploration and interpretation by humanity. Vocabulary Words:scorching: 骄阳似火ambitious: 抱负breakthrough: 突破口perseverance: 坚韧frowned: 皱着眉头intricate: 精细decipher: 破译passage: 通道chilly: 凉意artifacts: 文物collaboration: 合作invigorate: 活力interpretation: 解读archaeological: 考古seasoned: 老道的tradition: 传统insights: 见解loosen: 松动unexpected: 意外的sinkhole: 地陷peril: 险境wisdom: 智慧historian: 历史学家cognizance: 领悟preserve: 保存exploration: 探索interpret: 挑战daring: 敢触及frantic: 惊慌say: 徐徐

Today's Episode:Haidilao just made tipping optional, and Chinese internet exploded! Why do Chinese people hate tipping? What does it say about culture, service, and money? In this episode, we dive into this hot topic and teach you how to talk about it in Chinese!Membership Preview:In our next MaoMi Chinese+ episode, we dive into real news headlines about Haidilao's tipping policy. Learn how native speakers express opinions, contrast ideas, and ask questions — all through short, punchy sentences from the news. Great grammar in action!Support MaoMi & Get exclusive   to premium content!https://www.buzzsprout.com/1426696/subscribe ↗️Transcript and translations are available on https://maomichinese.comInterested 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

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Rekindling Bonds: Navigating Life's Crossroads in Beijing Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-08-10-22-34-02-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 北京的夏日，阳光透过《异类之家》咖啡馆的大窗，洒在每一张小桌上。En: In the summer in Beijing, sunlight streamed through the large windows of the Yileizhijia café, spilling onto every small table.Zh: 曾经的大学同学梅、健和丽玲在此重聚，时隔十年，他们终于再次相见。En: Former college classmates Mei, Jian, and Liling reunited here after ten years; finally, they were seeing each other again.Zh: 咖啡馆里，键盘噼里啪啦的声音和轻声交谈交织成一曲忙碌的乐章。En: In the café, the sound of keyboards clattering and low conversations wove into a symphony of busyness.Zh: 梅拿着一杯拿铁，微笑着，可她眉间流露出一丝未解的烦恼。En: Mei held a cup of latte, smiling, but a hint of unresolved trouble lingered between her brows.Zh: 她是自由职业设计师，为了找到工作和生活的平衡而苦恼。En: She was a freelance designer, troubled by the struggle to find a balance between work and life.Zh: 健则穿着整齐，他是个科技创业公司的合伙人，正面临激烈的市场竞争，却似乎无暇多顾。En: Jian, dressed neatly, was a partner at a tech startup, facing fierce market competition and seemingly too busy to take on more.Zh: 丽玲则是穿梭世界的旅行作家，心中藏着对安稳生活的渴望。En: Liling was a travel writer journeying across the world, harboring a desire for a stable life.Zh: “好久不见，感觉大家都变了许多。”梅率先开口，她希望从朋友们身上寻求些建议。En: “Long time no see, it feels like we've all changed a lot,” Mei spoke first, hoping to seek some advice from her friends.Zh: 健皱了皱眉头，随手翻着手机上的邮件，“是啊，我这个公司现在忙得不可开交，真愁人。”En: Jian frowned while flipping through emails on his phone, “Yeah, my company is really busy right now, it's so worrisome.”Zh: 丽玲则望着窗外，“我常年旅行，也想过要找个地方定下来，不过还没想好要去哪儿。”En: Liling gazed out the window, “I travel all the time too and have thought about finding a place to settle down, but I haven't decided where yet.”Zh: 梅吸了口气，把心中的烦恼一一倾诉：“我真的很想接更多项目，但总觉得牺牲了自己的时间。我该怎么办呢？”En: Mei took a deep breath and poured out her worries one by one: “I really want to take on more projects, but I always feel like I'm sacrificing my own time. What should I do?”Zh: 健却一直在忙着看信息，没有太多回应。En: Jian was still busy checking messages and didn't respond much.Zh: 丽玲却回过头来，认真说道：“或许你可以试着定个时间表，比如每天留点时间给自己，慢慢调节。”En: Liling, however, turned back and said earnestly, “Maybe you could try setting a schedule, like leaving some time for yourself each day and adjusting gradually.”Zh: 健放下手机，似乎意识到了什么，努力调整了位置，更加专注地听着。En: Jian put down his phone, seemingly realizing something, and tried to adjust his attention, listening more intently.Zh: 三个人各自道出了自己的隐忧。En: Each of the three shared their own concerns.Zh: 健承认自己太过专注事业，忽略了生活的其他乐趣。En: Jian admitted that he was too focused on his career, neglecting other joys of life.Zh: 丽玲则坦言，旅行虽然冒险刺激，但她开始渴望稳定的归宿。En: Liling confessed that while traveling was adventurous and exciting, she was beginning to long for a stable home.Zh: 这时，咖啡馆里的气氛顿时凝重起来，每个人都感受到，原来心底都有未解的愿望。En: At this point, the atmosphere in the café turned heavy, and everyone realized that they all had unfulfilled desires deep down.Zh: 经过一番长谈，朋友们决定彼此做出改变。En: After a lengthy discussion, the friends decided to make changes.Zh: 梅找到了一些灵感，决定仔细挑选项目，只选择那些真正能激发她创作激情的工作，而给生活留点空间。En: Mei found some inspiration and decided to carefully select projects, choosing only those that truly sparked her creative passion while leaving some room for life.Zh: 健和丽玲也承诺，互相保持联系，提供支持与鼓励。En: Jian and Liling also promised to stay in touch and provide support and encouragement to each other.Zh: 随着围绕在他们之间的话题变得温暖轻松，窗外的阳光仿佛更加明亮。En: As the conversation warmed and lightened, the sunlight outside seemed to shine even brighter.Zh: 梅的内心找到了一丝久违的安宁和方向。En: Mei found a long-lost sense of peace and direction in her heart.Zh: 他们三人交换了联系方式，并约定在未来的日子里更加彼此关心。En: They exchanged contact information and agreed to care more for each other in the days to come.Zh: 在《异类之家》里，他们结束了一段既漫长又重要的对话，为各自的人生注入了新的动力，重新启程。En: In Yileizhijia, they concluded a conversation that was both long and important, injecting new motivation into each of their lives and setting off afresh. Vocabulary Words:streamed: 透过low: 轻声freelance: 自由职业struggle: 苦恼balance: 平衡fierce: 激烈gazed: 望着settle: 定下来deep breath: 吸了口气sacrificing: 牺牲earnestly: 认真neglecting: 忽略stable: 安稳asserted: 坦言admitted: 承认atmosphere: 气氛lingered: 流露unfulfilled: 未解desires: 愿望lengthy: 漫长motivation: 动力intently: 专注concerns: 隐忧creative: 创作inspiration: 灵感passion: 激情concluded: 结束worrisome: 愁人adjusting: 调节injecting: 注入

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Finding Family and Art: A Reunion at the Shanghai Art Museum Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-08-09-22-34-02-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 上海艺术博物馆的大厅中，参观者熙熙攘攘，墙上挂满了色彩斑斓的画作。En: In the atrium of the Shanghai Art Museum, visitors were bustling about, and the walls were adorned with vibrant paintings.Zh: 虽然外面是湿热的夏天，这里却是凉爽安逸的。En: While it was hot and humid outside in the summer, the inside was cool and peaceful.Zh: 李伟站在一幅油画前，心里有些紧张。En: Li Wei stood in front of an oil painting, feeling a bit nervous.Zh: 他的妹妹美正笑盈盈地招呼他，家人们在身后议论纷纷。En: His younger sister Mei was cheerfully calling out to him, and the family was chatting in the background.Zh: 这是他们久别重聚的日子，也是七夕节。En: This was the day of their long-awaited reunion, which coincided with the Qixi Festival.Zh: 李伟是一名年轻的艺术家。En: Li Wei is a young artist.Zh: 他总觉得和家人有些疏远，因为他们总希望他能找到一份稳定的工作。En: He always felt somewhat distant from his family because they always hoped he would find a stable job.Zh: 他很想和大家重新连接，但又害怕他们并不理解他的选择。En: He really wanted to reconnect with everyone, but he was afraid they wouldn't understand his choices.Zh: 张奶奶走过来，轻声问：“最近还好吗？En: Grandma Zhang came over and softly asked, "How have you been lately?Zh: 我们走走吧。En: Let's take a walk."Zh: ”李伟点点头，跟着她走进了一个安静的展厅。En: Li Wei nodded and followed her into a quiet exhibition hall.Zh: 墙上挂的画让李伟想起小时候和奶奶一起画画的时光，那时他就梦想成为一个画家。En: The paintings on the walls reminded him of the times he used to draw with his grandmother as a child, when he dreamed of becoming a painter.Zh: 走了一会儿，李伟停下脚步，说：“奶奶，我真的很热爱画画。En: After walking for a while, Li Wei stopped and said, "Grandma, I really love painting.Zh: 能给您看看我的画吗？En: Can I show you my paintings?"Zh: ”张奶奶微笑着点头。En: Grandma Zhang smiled and nodded.Zh: 李伟拿出手机，展示了一幅他用心创作的作品。En: Li Wei took out his phone and displayed one of his heartfelt creations.Zh: 经过短暂的沉默，张奶奶点头：“真不错。En: After a brief silence, Grandma Zhang nodded, "Very good.Zh: 我看到你用心去画，把你对生活的理解都画出来了。En: I can see that you put your heart into painting, expressing your understanding of life."Zh: ”李伟感到一丝轻松，但又有些惊讶。En: Li Wei felt a bit relieved but also surprised.Zh: 接下来的聚会中，家人们围着李伟，看他的作品。En: During the gathering that followed, the family gathered around Li Wei to look at his work.Zh: 他深吸一口气，把画作展示给他们。En: He took a deep breath and presented his paintings to them.Zh: 他不知道大家会有什么反应，却知道这是自己的机会。En: He wasn't sure how they would react, but he knew this was his opportunity.Zh: 出乎意料的是，张奶奶率先拍了拍手：“李伟，你很有才华。En: Unexpectedly, Grandma Zhang was the first to clap her hands, saying, "Li Wei, you are very talented.Zh: 我为你感到骄傲。En: I am proud of you."Zh: ”其他家人也纷纷赞同，称赞他的努力和天赋。En: Other family members also agreed, praising his effort and talent.Zh: 李伟心中升起一阵温暖。En: A warm feeling rose in Li Wei's heart.Zh: 他突然明白，即使家人们有不同的期望，他们仍然会支持和爱护他。En: He suddenly realized that even if his family had different expectations, they would still support and love him.Zh: 那天晚上，他走出博物馆时，比来时更加自信。En: That evening, as he left the museum, he was more confident than when he arrived.Zh: 他知道，这次的重聚，不仅让他找回了家人的支持，还让他相信，自己的选择并没有错。En: He knew that this reunion not only helped him regain his family's support but also made him believe that his choices were not wrong. Vocabulary Words:atrium: 大厅bustling: 熙熙攘攘adorned: 挂满vibrant: 色彩斑斓humid: 湿热reunion: 重聚coincided: 也是distant: 疏远stable: 稳定reconnect: 重新连接softly: 轻声exhibition: 展厅heartfelt: 用心creations: 创作silent: 沉默understanding: 理解relieved: 轻松gathering: 聚会praised: 称赞effort: 努力talent: 才华warm: 温暖expectations: 期望support: 支持opportunity: 机会confident: 自信choices: 选择realized: 明白proud: 骄傲artwork: 画作

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Jasmine Tea and Urban Dreamscapes: A Serendipitous Encounter Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-08-08-22-34-02-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 麦琳推开茶店的玻璃门，温暖的空气和淡淡的茉莉花香扑面而来。En: Mailin pushed open the glass door of the tea shop, and a warm air mixed with a faint jasmine scent greeted her.Zh: 她找到了一处空桌，挨着大窗，透过窗户，她能看到外面高高的摩天大楼，那是浦东的标志。En: She found an empty table by a large window, through which she could see the tall skyscrapers outside, a landmark of Pudong.Zh: 茶店内饰温馨，墙上挂着现代艺术作品，还有几副传统的中国画，仿佛在这个喧嚣的城市中，开辟出一片宁静的绿洲。En: The interior of the tea shop was cozy, with modern art pieces hanging on the walls alongside several traditional Chinese paintings, creating a peaceful oasis amidst the bustling city.Zh: 此时，是盛夏，阳光透过玻璃窗洒在室内，增添了几分慵懒的气氛。En: It was midsummer, and the sunlight streaming through the glass window added a lazy atmosphere to the room.Zh: 不远处，简细心地挑选着架子上的茶叶。En: Not far away, Jian was carefully selecting tea leaves from the shelves.Zh: 突然，他和麦琳同时伸手去拿同一个小盒子，里面装着最后一包茉莉花茶。En: Suddenly, he and Mailin reached for the same small box containing the last pack of jasmine tea.Zh: “哦，抱歉，我不是故意的。”麦琳微笑着说。En: "Oh, sorry, I didn't mean to," Mailin said with a smile.Zh: “没关系，我也没注意到。”简回答，语气平和。En: "It's okay, I didn't notice either," Jian replied, his tone calm.Zh: 两人都对手中的茶盒轻笑。En: The two shared a light laugh over the tea box.Zh: 麦琳小心地询问：“你也喜欢茉莉花茶吗？”En: Mailin cautiously asked, "Do you like jasmine tea too?"Zh: “是的，”简说，“我喜欢它的味道很清新凉爽。”En: "Yes," Jian said, "I like its fresh and cool taste."Zh: 这简单的对话，成了两人深入交流的开始。En: This simple conversation became the start of a deeper exchange.Zh: 简是个建筑师，热衷于设计能够与自然和谐相处的绿色建筑。En: Jian was an architect, passionate about designing green buildings that harmonize with nature.Zh: 他的想法独特而大胆，却常因团队的保守而无法施展。En: His ideas were unique and bold, but they often went undeveloped due to his team's conservatism.Zh: 反观麦琳，她是一名记者，正寻找一个全新的角度来撰写关于上海现代都市文化的文章。En: In contrast, Mailin was a journalist, seeking a fresh angle to write about Shanghai's modern urban culture.Zh: 每次她觉得自己找到了切入点，就发现别人已经写过。这让她感到烦恼不已。En: Every time she thought she had found a breakthrough, she discovered someone else had already covered it, leaving her frustrated.Zh: 随着对话的展开，麦琳突然有了灵感：“或许，我可以写关于上海如何将传统与现代结合的新角度。”En: As the conversation unfolded, Mailin suddenly had an idea: "Perhaps I can write from a new perspective on how Shanghai combines tradition with modernity."Zh: 简被激发了灵感：“正是这点，我的设计方案可以以传统美学为基调，融入现代的科技与材料。”En: Jian was inspired: "Exactly, my design proposals can use traditional aesthetics as a base, integrated with modern technology and materials."Zh: 茶店的店主看见两人开心地讨论着，提议他们参与即将开始的即兴茶品活动。En: The tea shop owner saw the two happily discussing and suggested they join an upcoming impromptu tea tasting event.Zh: 品茶过程中，两人继续交换着对城市与文化的看法。En: During the tasting, they continued exchanging views on the city and culture.Zh: 活动接近尾声时，麦琳已经在心中勾勒出她文章的轮廓，而简也想出了要在下一次会议上提出的设计方案。En: As the event neared its end, Mailin had already outlined her article in her mind, while Jian had figured out a design proposal to present at the next meeting.Zh: 简微笑着对麦琳说：“谢谢你，和你聊天让我更加坚定了自己的想法。”En: Jian smiled at Mailin and said, "Thank you, talking with you has made me more determined about my ideas."Zh: 麦琳也欣慰地说：“没有你的启发，我或许还在困惑中挣扎。”En: Mailin also felt relieved and said, "Without your inspiration, I might still be struggling in confusion."Zh: 就在这家小小的茶店里，通过这场偶然的邂逅，他们都发现了前行的方向。En: In this small tea shop, through this chance encounter, they both found their way forward.Zh: 渐渐，两人走出了茶店，阳光依旧明媚，他们带着新的信心，走向各自的梦想。En: Gradually, they walked out of the tea shop, with the sunshine still bright, carrying new confidence as they headed toward their respective dreams. Vocabulary Words:pushed: 推开scent: 香skyscrapers: 摩天大楼interior: 内饰cozy: 温馨amidst: 中bustling: 喧嚣greeted: 扑面而来oasis: 绿洲streaming: 透过lazy: 慵懒selecting: 挑选tone: 语气harmonize: 和谐undeveloped: 无法施展conservatism: 保守angle: 角度breakthrough: 切入点frustrated: 烦恼perspective: 角度proposals: 方案traditional: 传统integrated: 融入upcoming: 即将impromptu: 即兴tasting: 品views: 看法inspiration: 启发confusion: 困惑confidence: 信心

What comes to mind when you hear the word "Rinpoche"? Perhaps a respected monk quietly reading sutras—but that's just a stereotype. Balog Rinpoche breaks the mold. A true multi-hyphenate, he founded a band that blends the Songs of Milarepa — a form of national intangible cultural heritage—with contemporary, secular music. He's also a Thangka painter and fluent in Tibetan, Mandarin, and English. He is also a living Buddha—a recognized reincarnation in Tibetan Buddhism. What sets the modern-day living Buddha apart? How is Buddhism being preserved in China's Xizang Autonomous Region? How can ancient wisdom help us find balance in today's fast-paced world?

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Unlocking Secrets Beneath Xi'an: A Tale of Heritage and Invention Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-08-06-22-34-02-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 正值盛夏，西安古城墙下，一个不为人知的实验室悄然隐藏在岁月的尘埃中。En: At the peak of summer, beneath Xi'an's ancient city walls, an unknown laboratory quietly lay hidden in the dust of ages.Zh: 梅琳和哥哥峻，站在入口前，看着手中蓝图出神。En: Mei Lin and her brother Jun stood before the entrance, staring intently at the blueprint in their hands.Zh: 这些图纸来自他们已故的祖父，传说中是一项了不起的发明。En: These drawings came from their late grandfather, said to be a remarkable invention.Zh: 白日里，古城熙熙攘攘，但到了夜晚，尤其是中元节的夜晚，空气里却弥漫着香火气息，冥冥之中仿佛祖先的灵魂在游荡。En: During the day, the ancient city was bustling, but by night, especially on the night of the Zhong Yuan Jie, the air was thick with incense, as if the spirits of ancestors were wandering mysteriously.Zh: 梅琳心中涌动着迫切的渴望，她要揭开蓝图的秘密，为家族找回荣誉。En: An urgent desire surged in Mei Lin's heart; she wanted to uncover the secrets of the blueprint and restore her family's honor.Zh: 峻在旁边略显犹豫。En: Jun, standing beside her, appeared slightly hesitant.Zh: “这可能很危险，”他低声说，“而且那些开发商很快就要来拆掉这里。”En: "This could be dangerous," he whispered, "and those developers will soon come to demolish this place."Zh: 梅琳点了点头，眼神坚定。En: Mei Lin nodded, her gaze firm.Zh: “祖父的智慧不能就这样消失。我们必须进去。”En: "Grandfather's wisdom cannot vanish just like that. We must go in."Zh: 在地面上，他们找到了一个隐蔽的入口。En: On the ground, they found a hidden entrance.Zh: 在梅琳细心辨别蓝图的指引下，他们顺利打开了通道。En: Guided carefully by the blueprint deciphered by Mei Lin, they successfully opened the passage.Zh: 黑暗的阶梯通往一个微光的世界，实验室里充满了尘封的古物和纸张交错的气息。En: The dark staircase led to a dim world where the laboratory was filled with dusty relics and the intertwined presence of paper.Zh: 脚步声在墙壁间回荡，与外面的烟火形成鲜明对比。En: Their footsteps echoed off the walls, in stark contrast to the fireworks outside.Zh: 正当两人专注于寻找祖父的发明时，他们意外触动了一个机关，入口开始缓缓关闭。En: Just as the two focused on finding their grandfather's invention, they accidentally triggered a mechanism, and the entrance began to close slowly.Zh: “快！”峻大喊，心跳加速。En: "Hurry!" Jun shouted, his heart racing.Zh: “我们得赶紧走！”En: "We need to get out, fast!"Zh: 梅琳飞快地合上笔记本，然后拉起峻的手，两人一同奔向出口。En: Mei Lin quickly closed her notebook, then grabbed Jun's hand, and together they dashed towards the exit.Zh: 在最后一刻，他们奋力跃过门槛，实验室的入口在身后轰然闭合。En: At the last moment, they leaped over the threshold, as the entrance to the laboratory closed shut with a roar behind them.Zh: 在浑浊的夜色中，梅琳和峻气喘吁吁地跪在古城的地面上，手中紧握祖父的蓝图。En: In the murky night, Mei Lin and Jun knelt on the ground of the ancient city, panting and clutching their grandfather's blueprint tightly.Zh: 梅琳展开图纸，眼中闪烁着新生的希望。En: Mei Lin unfolded the paper, her eyes shimmering with newfound hope.Zh: 图纸上的设计指向一个清洁能源的装置，奇妙而宏伟。En: The design pointed to a device for clean energy, wondrous and grand.Zh: “这不仅是祖父的遗产，也是未来的钥匙。”梅琳说，声音充满敬意。En: "This is not only grandfather's legacy but also the key to the future," Mei Lin said, her voice full of reverence.Zh: 峻的心中充满了对祖父的尊敬和对妹妹的信任。En: Jun's heart was filled with respect for his grandfather and trust in his sister.Zh: “我们一定要好好保护它。”En: "We must protect it well."Zh: 于是，兄妹俩决定携手努力，让这个发明脱离阴影，成为改变未来的重要力量。En: Thus, the siblings decided to work together, bringing this invention out of the shadows to become a powerful force for change in the future.Zh: 而他们也在这个过程中，找到了对家族、更重要的是对彼此的信任和理解。En: In the process, they found trust and understanding not just for their family but, more importantly, for each other. Vocabulary Words:peak: 盛夏ancient: 古laboratory: 实验室blueprint: 蓝图remarkable: 了不起的bustling: 熙熙攘攘incense: 香火ancestors: 祖先surged: 涌动uncover: 揭开demolish: 拆掉firm: 坚定deciphered: 辨别dim: 微光relics: 古物intertwined: 交错的echoed: 回荡fireworks: 烟火mechanism: 机关threshold: 门槛murky: 浑浊panting: 气喘吁吁unfolded: 展开shimmering: 闪烁legacy: 遗产reverence: 敬意trust: 信任understanding: 理解restore: 找回honor: 荣誉

Text the Bookcast and say "hi"!Welcome to Chapter 74! My guest is Candace Kade. Candace spends her time dreaming up stories typically involving technology, psychology, culture, and/or swords. She is the author of The Hybrid Series and a certified Krav Maga assistant instructor who loves writing action-packed martial art scenes. A third culture kid, she considers Chengdu and OKC to be her homes. When she's not exploring new countries, she enjoys hiking in national parks, moving, teaching her husband Mandarin, and keeping two baby humans alive. She can be bribed with boba tea, fluffy puppies, and breakfast tacos.In our conversation, we talk about the Hybrid trilogy with a focus on the third book - Augmented - that releases in September. We also talk about writing for YA audiences, how her experience of navigating cultures impacts her writing, and she gives some incredible thoughts on writing fight scenes. You're going to love getting to know Candace Kade. Connect with Candace: website | InstagramCandace on Your Next Great Read (July 2024)Books Mentioned on the Show:Enhanced - Candace KadeHybrid - Candace KadeAugmented - Candace KadeOut of Time series - Nadine BrandesThe Selection series - Kiera CassEragon - Christopher PaoliniRed Rising - Pierce BrownMe Before You - JoJo MoyesConnect with J: website | TikTok | Twitter | Instagram | FacebookShop the Bookcast on Bookshop.orgMusic by JuliusH

Originally from Hong Kong, Charmaine Dominguez is a registered dietitian and wellness professional who specializes in helping clients reverse Type 2 Diabetes and general insulin resistance through plant-focused, whole foods dieting. She is a double graduate of Cal State Long Beach, where she received both her Bachelor of Science Degree in Nutrition & Dietetics and her Master's in Public Health.  Charmaine has coached over 1,000 clients into Type 2 Diabetes remission – and helped countless other prevent or manage insulin resistance before it becomes type 2. Her work online has led her to wide acknowledgment as one of the top diabetes-focused creators, including recognitions by medical publications. While blood-sugar tracking has surged in popularity online, Charmaine's approach goes beyond trend. She focuses on whole foods and plant-based nutrition (though not necessarily vegan), emphasizing vitamin-rich, complex carbohydrates that actually improve insulin sensitivity over time.  Charmaine is more than just a content creator – she's also a founder, business owner, and wife. She has scaled her business to include a team of dietitians who work under her to support her rapidly growing client base; her entrepreneurial grit is the core of work in the wellness space online and with her business. Charmaine fluently speaks English, Cantonese, and Mandarin, and is conversational in Spanish and Korean.    Want to watch: YouTube Meisterkhan Pod (Please Subscribe)

In this compelling episode, Jeff Mains sits down with Daniel Nalesnik, founder of Hack Chinese, to unravel the journey of building a sticky SaaS product designed to master Mandarin through spaced repetition. Daniel shares how personal frustration and a deep love for language learning fueled his transition from a full-time student in China to the founder of a thriving EdTech platform. The conversation delves into balancing product development with founder sanity, the importance of passionate work, and actionable insights for solo founders navigating slow but steady SaaS growth. From onboarding masterclass to the nuances of AI in edtech, this episode is a quiet powerhouse for anyone looking to not only attract, but truly engage – and retain – users.Key Takeaways[00:04:43] From Hobbyist to Founder: Daniel's journey from taking a night class in Mandarin to full-immersion in China, falling in love with language learning methodology.[00:07:25] Power of Spaced Repetition: Why spaced repetition is optimal for memorizing vast amounts of information—a fundamental principle behind Hack Chinese.[00:13:56] Building for Your Own Pain: Daniel built Hack Chinese to address the complexity and inefficiency he experienced with generic SRS tools, focusing on a seamless vocabulary-learning workflow.[00:19:59] The Critical First 2 Minutes: Refining onboarding to deliver immediate value, inspired by Facebook's rigorous focus on first impressions, dramatically improved conversion and activation.[00:24:29] Finding Product-Market Fit: The breakthrough came after a Mandarin language school reviewed Hack Chinese, flooding the platform with its ideal users — proof that targeted partnerships trump broad, unfocused marketing.[00:41:33] Passion vs. Pressure: Founder passion cannot be outsourced, and allowing team members to gravitate towards projects they're passionate about results in better outcomes and happier teams.Tweetable Quotes"I can pay somebody to get work done, but I cannot pay somebody for their passion." — Daniel Nalesnik"Spaced repetition isn't just a learning hack—it's a retention machine for SaaS." — Daniel Nalesnik"Onboarding is so important. You need to show the value as soon as possible—there's no waiting on that." — Daniel Nalesnik"If you have the luxury to just keep going, don't underestimate how powerful that can be." — Daniel Nalesnik"Niche down incredibly small—and just keep hammering on making that the best in the world." — Daniel Nalesnik"The longer you're in business, the more credibility you have, and marketing just gets easier." — Daniel NalesnikSaaS Leadership LessonsRelentless Clarity of Purpose: Stay deeply connected to the "why" behind your product. Daniel's unwavering focus on solving his own learning pain points resulted in a tool with true product-market fit.Accelerate Early Value: The first moments in your app—or company—matter more than most founders think. Ruthlessly optimize for early wins in onboarding.Niche Down, Then Go Deep: Don't be afraid to focus tightly on a subset of user needs. Specialization breeds depth, loyalty, and real transformation.Embrace Slow, Steady Growth: Most overnight successes have years of invisible persistence behind them. Consistency and the willingness to keep going are more powerful than any growth hack.Hire for Passion: The energy, resilience, and innovation brought by passionate contributors cannot be bought. Structure your team so people work on what excites them.Continuous Iteration > Perfection:...

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Unfolding Stories: Rediscovering Friendship in a Tea House Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-08-05-22-34-02-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 北京一家热闹的茶馆里，阳光透过竹帘洒在抛光的木桌上。En: In a bustling tea house in Beijing, sunlight filtered through bamboo blinds, casting patterns on polished wooden tables.Zh: 茶香在空气中弥漫，人声鼎沸。En: The fragrance of tea filled the air, and the chatter of voices was lively.Zh: 这里，尘世的喧嚣与茶馆里的宁静形成鲜明对比。En: Here, the clamor of the world outside contrasted sharply with the tranquility inside the tea house.Zh: 连，一个创业者，坐在角落的桌边。En: Lian, an entrepreneur, sat at a corner table.Zh: 她经营着一家小型科技公司，却时常想起无忧无虑的大学时光。En: She ran a small tech company but often reminisced about her carefree university days.Zh: 今天，她心中有些期待又有些不安，因为她即将与旧友相聚。En: Today, she felt a mix of anticipation and unease because she was about to reunite with old friends.Zh: 很快，芝推门而入。En: Soon, Zhi pushed the door open.Zh: 她是位成功的建筑师，刚从国外回来。En: She was a successful architect, having just returned from abroad.Zh: 芝对重聚有些犹豫，担心多年不见的朋友是否还能像以前一样无话不谈。En: Zhi felt a bit hesitant about the reunion, wondering if friends long unseen could still talk as freely as before.Zh: 两人互相打了招呼，开始闲聊。En: The two greeted each other and started to chat.Zh: 这时，美也来了。En: At this moment, Mei also arrived.Zh: 她是一个全职父母，生活中被家庭琐事包围，和事业有成的朋友们相比，总感到一丝格格不入。En: She was a full-time parent, surrounded by family matters, and felt somewhat out of place compared to her accomplished friends.Zh: 坐在一起，三个人有些拘谨。En: Sitting together, the three felt a bit reserved.Zh: 茶水端上来，氤氲的热气如往事般升腾，时光仿佛倒流。En: As the tea was served, the rising steam seemed to bring back memories, and time seemed to rewind.Zh: 连想 rekindle 她们之间的友谊，她却在心中暗自忐忑：他们之间是不是已经走得太远了？En: Lian wanted to rekindle the friendship between them, but she was secretly anxious: Had they drifted apart too far?Zh: 忽然，连放下了茶杯。En: Suddenly, Lian put down her teacup.Zh: 她决定说出自己近期面临的艰辛。En: She decided to share the hardships she had recently faced.Zh: 创业压力大，常常让她力不从心。En: The pressures of entrepreneurship often left her feeling overwhelmed.Zh: 她希望用坦诚打破沉默，为真正的交流打开一扇窗。En: She hoped that honesty could break the silence and open a window for genuine communication.Zh: 连的分享让芝和美都沉默了片刻，茶馆的喧闹似乎也安静下来。En: Lian's sharing left Zhi and Mei silent for a moment, and even the noise of the tea house seemed to quiet down.Zh: 随后，美也打开心扉，诉说着她对家庭与事业无法平衡的烦恼。En: Then, Mei opened up, expressing her struggles to balance family and career.Zh: 芝心中牵动，她也坦言归国的焦虑与期待。En: Zhi was moved, and she too confessed her anxieties and expectations about returning home.Zh: 然而，谈话逐渐转向她们不同生活道路选择上的分歧。En: However, the conversation gradually shifted to their disagreements about the different life paths they had chosen.Zh: 三人间的气氛一时间紧张起来。她们激烈地争论着，过去的温暖似乎被各自的分歧冲淡。En: The atmosphere among the three became tense for a while, as they argued heatedly, and the warmth of the past seemed diluted by their differences.Zh: 就在争执达到顶点时，连冷静地说："我们不必是一样的。每个人都有自己的路。"En: Just as the argument reached its peak, Lian calmly said, "We don't have to be the same. Everyone has their own path."Zh: 她的话让大家冷静下来，彼此对视，心中充满理解。En: Her words brought a sense of calm, and they looked at each other with understanding.Zh: 三人相视而笑，重拾起失去的友情。En: The three smiled at each other, reclaiming their lost friendship.Zh: 美握住连的手，说无论生活将她们带往何处，友谊始终是最珍贵的。En: Mei held Lian's hand and said that no matter where life takes them, their friendship would always be the most precious.Zh: 她们在茶馆里坐了很久，从过去聊到现在，再展望未来。En: They sat in the tea house for a long time, chatting from the past to the present, and then looking forward to the future.Zh: 连这时明白了，过去已逝，重要的是珍惜当下。En: Lian realized that the past is gone, and what matters is cherishing the present.Zh: 而无论再怎么改变，她与芝和美的友谊会更为坚定。En: No matter how things change, her friendship with Zhi and Mei would only grow stronger.Zh: 阳光填满茶馆，增添了几分温暖。En: Sunlight filled the tea house, adding warmth.Zh: 连走出茶馆时，心中对于怀旧的情感已转变为对未来的期待，朋友们的陪伴让她不再感到孤单。En: As Lian left the tea house, her nostalgia had transformed into an anticipation for the future, and the companionship of her friends made her feel less alone.Zh: 茶馆一如既往地热闹，而她的心却因此更加宁静。En: The tea house remained as lively as ever, yet her heart was all the more peaceful for it. Vocabulary Words:bustling: 热闹filtered: 透过fragrance: 茶香clamor: 喧嚣tranquility: 宁静entrepreneur: 创业者reminisce: 想起anticipation: 期待unease: 不安reunite: 相聚hesitant: 犹豫confessed: 坦言anxieties: 焦虑expectations: 期待rekindle: 恢复anxious: 忐忑overwhelmed: 力不从心genuine: 真正harmony: 和谐struggles: 烦恼vulnerable: 脆弱disagree: 分歧heatedly: 激烈地diluted: 冲淡calm: 冷静understanding: 理解cherishing: 珍惜companionship: 陪伴nostalgia: 怀旧peaceful: 宁静

Nightlife News Breakdown with Philip Clark, joined by Peter Gearin, Editor in Chief of The Mandarin, previously assistant editor of The Sydney Morning Herald and The Sun-Herald. 

Should you learn Chinese characters from the start, or focus on speaking first? There are good arguments for both approaches, but one makes more sense for most students.Please note: This is a rerecorded version of episode 1. That means that it's both episode 1 and episode 261.#learnchinese #mandarin #hanzi #spoken #writtenLink to article on Hacking Chinese: Should you learn to speak Chinese before you learn Chinese characters? https://www.hackingchinese.com/should-you-learn-to-speak-chinese-before-you-learn-chinese-characters/Chinese character learning for all students: https://www.hackingchinese.com/chinese-character-learning-for-all-students/16 reasons to learn to write Chinese characters by hand: https://www.hackingchinese.com/reasons-to-learn-to-write-chinese-characters-by-hand/Kickstart your learning with the Skritter character course: https://www.hackingchinese.com/kickstart-your-learning-with-the-skritter-character-course/My best advice on how to learn Chinese characters: https://www.hackingchinese.com/my-best-advice-on-how-to-learn-chinese-characters/Why is listening in Chinese so hard? https://www.hackingchinese.com/why-is-listening-in-chinese-so-hard/Learning pronunciation as a beginner: https://www.hackingchinese.com/learning-pronunciation-as-a-beginner/The Hacking Chinese guide to Mandarin tones: https://www.hackingchinese.com/the-hacking-chinese-guide-to-mandarin-tones/Focus on initials and finals, not Pinyin spelling: https://www.hackingchinese.com/focus-on-initials-and-finals-not-pinyin-spelling/Anki, a friendly, intelligent spaced learning system: https://www.hackingchinese.com/anki-a-friendly-intelligent-spaced-learning-system/Free and easy audio flashcards for Chinese dictation practice with Anki: https://www.hackingchinese.com/free-and-easy-audio-flashcards-for-chinese-dictation-practice-with-anki/Introduction: Comprehension-based Chinese teaching and learning: https://www.hackingchinese.com/introduction-comprehension-based-chinese-teaching-learning/The Input Pyramid: Chinese listening for any situation: https://www.hackingchinese.com/the-input-pyramid-chinese-listening-for-any-situation/The most common Chinese words, characters and components for language learners and teachers: https://www.hackingchinese.com/the-most-common-chinese-words-characters-and-components-for-language-learners-and-teachers/The building blocks of Chinese, part 1: Chinese characters and words in a nutshell: https://www.hackingchinese.com/the-building-blocks-of-chinese-part-1-chinese-characters-and-words-in-a-nutshell/How to learn Chinese characters as a beginner: https://www.hackingchinese.com/how-to-learn-chinese-characters-as-a-beginner/More information and inspiration about learning and teaching Chinese can be found at: ⁠https://www.hackingchinese.com/⁠Music: "Traxis 1 ~ F. Benjamin" by Traxis, 2020 - Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution (3.0)

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Mystery of the Enchanted Lanterns: A Qixi Surprise Unveiled Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-08-04-22-34-02-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 成都的光明市场，大街小巷都挂满了五颜六色的灯笼和装饰。En: The Guangming Market in Chengdu is adorned with colorful lanterns and decorations strung across its streets and alleys.Zh: 空气中弥漫着炸鸡、烤串和其他各种美食的香味。En: The air is filled with the aroma of fried chicken, grilled skewers, and a variety of other delicacies.Zh: 今天是七夕节，到处都是情侣，市场显得格外热闹。En: Today is Qixi Festival, and couples are everywhere, making the market particularly lively.Zh: 李伟是个年轻的画家，经常来光明市场寻找灵感。En: Li Wei is a young painter who often visits Guangming Market in search of inspiration.Zh: 虽然周围热闹非凡，但他的心里却充满了孤独。En: Despite the vibrant surroundings, he feels a sense of loneliness in his heart.Zh: 就在这时，一个陌生的信使递给他一封信。En: Just then, a stranger hands him a letter.Zh: 信封没有署名，看起来很神秘。En: The envelope is unsigned and looks mysterious.Zh: 李伟走到市场里的一个角落，缓缓打开信封。En: Li Wei makes his way to a corner of the market and slowly opens the envelope.Zh: 信中只有几行字，写着一些古怪的谜题。En: Inside, there are only a few lines, containing some peculiar riddles.Zh: 李伟眉头紧锁，心中充满了好奇。En: His brow furrows with curiosity.Zh: 他知道，若想解开这些谜题，必须有人帮忙。En: He knows that to solve these riddles, he will need help.Zh: 于是，李伟来到市场里最有名的店铺。En: So, Li Wei goes to the most famous shop in the market.Zh: 小宁正忙着招呼顾客。En: Xiao Ning is busy attending to customers.Zh: 她热情开朗，市场里的每个人都认识。En: She is cheerful and outgoing, and everyone in the market knows her.Zh: 李伟向她讲述了这封神秘信的事。En: Li Wei tells her about the mysterious letter.Zh: 小宁仔细听了，笑着说：“也许是有人在搞神秘活动。En: Xiao Ning listens carefully and laughs, saying, "Perhaps someone is organizing a mysterious event.Zh: 我们一起来看看吧！En: Let's take a look together!"Zh: ”两个人一起研究信上的线索，第一条线索指向市场中央的古井。En: Together they study the clues on the letter, and the first clue points to an ancient well in the center of the market.Zh: 井边的牌子上刻着“平安如意”四个字。En: The plaque next to the well is engraved with the words "Ping An Ruyi".Zh: 井上挂着的纸鸢引起了李伟的注意，但纸鸢上什么都没有。En: A kite hanging above the well catches Li Wei's attention, but there's nothing on it.Zh: “也许线索在别处？En: "Maybe the clue is somewhere else?"Zh: ”小宁提醒道。En: Xiao Ning suggests.Zh: 他们继续寻找，按照信中的提示，绕过了市场里的不少摊位。En: They continue their search, following the hints in the letter, weaving through many stalls in the market.Zh: 有时候，线索把他们带到一个表演摊，有时候又是一个卖珠宝的小店。En: Sometimes the clues lead them to a performance booth, sometimes to a small jewelry shop.Zh: 每解开一个谜题，心中就少了一分焦灼。En: Each solved riddle eases their anxiety a little bit.Zh: 最终，他们的脚步停在了一座老茶馆前。En: Eventually, they find themselves in front of an old teahouse.Zh: 信中最后的线索暗示着茶馆的屋顶。En: The last clue in the letter hints at the teahouse's roof.Zh: 小宁指了指，“我们需要上去。En: Xiao Ning points up, "We need to get up there."Zh: ”李伟和小宁设法爬上了茶馆的屋顶。En: Li Wei and Xiao Ning manage to climb up to the teahouse's roof.Zh: 那里站着一位神秘的陌生人，正是镇宇。En: There stands a mysterious stranger, Zhen Yu.Zh: 看到他们，镇宇微微一笑，说：“你们终于来了。En: Seeing them, Zhen Yu smiles slightly and says, "You finally made it."Zh: ”镇宇解释说，他对李伟的画作一直仰慕不已，希望借着七夕节，能为他策划一个特别的惊喜。En: Zhen Yu explains that he has long admired Li Wei's artwork and wanted to organize a special surprise for him on Qixi Festival.Zh: 这是一场寻宝游戏，一场充满心意的祝福。En: It was a treasure hunt, a heartfelt blessing.Zh: 李伟感动地看着镇宇，突然明白，这次的经历不只是找到线索，还有珍贵的友情。En: Li Wei looks at Zhen Yu with gratitude, suddenly understanding that this experience was not just about finding clues, but also about cherishing precious friendship.Zh: 通过这场冒险，他学会了如何去信任别人，如何去迎接生活中的未知机遇。En: Through this adventure, he learned how to trust others and embrace the unknown opportunities in life.Zh: 成都的夏夜充满着温暖，三个人在屋顶上共享着即将到来的节日烟火。En: The summer night in Chengdu is filled with warmth as the three of them share the upcoming festival fireworks on the rooftop.Zh: 伴随着市场下的喧闹，李伟的心终于充满了不一样的温暖。En: Amidst the hustle and bustle of the market below, Li Wei's heart is finally filled with a different kind of warmth. Vocabulary Words:adorned: 挂满lanterns: 灯笼aroma: 香味delicacies: 美食Qixi Festival: 七夕节inspiration: 灵感envelope: 信封mysterious: 神秘peculiar: 古怪riddles: 谜题famous: 有名organized: 策划cheerful: 开朗outgoing: 热情engraved: 刻着kite: 纸鸢curiosity: 好奇anxiety: 焦灼teahouse: 茶馆roof: 屋顶share: 共享treasure hunt: 寻宝游戏heartfelt: 充满心意blessing: 祝福gratitude: 感动cherishing: 珍贵friendship: 友情embrace: 迎接opportunities: 机遇bustle: 喧闹

聊中西文化，也聊很多东西！ 第七十七期，终于迎来了我的假期，这次选择去马来西亚度假，新鲜出炉的旅游杂记：） 欢迎给我们来信： ttmiChinese@gmail.com Have online class with Candice, please email candicex2018@gmail.com YouTube: Candice X Chinese Mandarin Instagram: CandiceXMandarin2022 免费学习资料 Free study materials please visit Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/candicex PDF full script for episode 77: coming soon Full subtitles with Pinyin for episode 77: coming soon

Today's Episode:Have you ever been “stabbed” by a cup of bubble tea? In this episode, we explore the viral Chinese slang “刺客” (assassin) — from pricey snacks to shocking bills — and how “backstabbing” has found its way into everyday shopping. Your wallet won't forget this one!Membership Preview:Our next MaoMi Chinese+ episode will uncover a common way to describe those moments when you get tricked or caught out—like surprise fees, misleading ads, or tricky menus. Learn how to talk about these everyday annoyances and practise with fun exercises!Support MaoMi & Get exclusive   to premium content!https://www.buzzsprout.com/1426696/subscribe ↗️Transcript and translations are available on https://maomichinese.comInterested 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

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Finding Harmony: Balancing Dreams and Family Ties Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-08-03-22-34-02-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 炎炎夏日，知了在树上叫个不停。En: On a scorching summer day, the zhiliao wouldn't stop buzzing in the trees.Zh: 小区里，孩子们在外面玩耍，家人们在门廊上闲聊。En: In the neighborhood, children played outside while families chatted on their porches.Zh: 小区的每个角落都充满了夏天的味道。En: Every corner of the community was filled with the essence of summer.Zh: 莲是个13岁的姑娘，梦想成为一名艺术家。En: Lian was a 13-year-old girl who dreamed of becoming an artist.Zh: 她的家里到处都是她的画作，餐桌上摆满了各种画具。En: Her home was filled with her paintings, and the dining table was covered with various art supplies.Zh: 今年暑假，她有个重要的计划：参加一个本地的艺术比赛。En: This summer, she had an important plan: to participate in a local art competition.Zh: 可是，她的15岁堂兄明有不同的想法。En: However, her 15-year-old cousin Ming had different ideas.Zh: 明特别爱运动，一到夏天就想让莲和他一起到外面玩。En: Ming loved sports, and as soon as summer arrived, he wanted Lian to join him in outdoor activities.Zh: 每当莲专心画画，他就来敲敲门：“莲，快出来打篮球吧！”En: Whenever Lian was focused on her painting, Ming would come knocking: “Lian, come out and play basketball!”Zh: 莲感到为难，她想画画，又不想辜负明。En: Lian felt torn; she wanted to paint but didn't want to let Ming down.Zh: 他们的奶奶震是一位70岁的老人，经常给他们讲过去的故事。En: Their grandmother Zhen, a 70-year-old woman, frequently shared stories from the past and always listened to Lian's concerns with patience.Zh: 一天早上，莲决定：“我可以早上画画，下午和明出去玩。”En: One morning, Lian decided: “I can paint in the morning and play with Ming in the afternoon.”Zh: 她这么计划着，认为这样可以两全其美。En: She planned it this way, thinking it could be the best of both worlds.Zh: 然而，一次小争吵却打破了这种平衡。En: However, a minor argument disrupted this balance.Zh: 有一天，莲因为画的进度不快而紧张。En: One day, Lian became anxious due to her slow progress with a painting.Zh: 明又来邀请她：“快啊，今天我们去游泳吧！”En: Ming came to invite her again: “Come on, let's go swimming today!”Zh: “我不去！”莲一声回绝，“我得画完这幅画。”En: “I'm not going!” Lian replied curtly, “I have to finish this painting.”Zh: “你整天都在画画，难道不觉得无聊吗？”明反驳。En: “You paint all day; don't you find it boring?” Ming retorted.Zh: “但这是我最想做的事！”莲不满地说道。En: “But it's what I love doing the most!” Lian responded discontentedly.Zh: 兄妹俩争执起来，莲甚至开始怀疑自己是否真该参加比赛。En: The siblings argued, and Lian even began to doubt whether she should participate in the competition.Zh: 晚上，奶奶震看出了莲的不安。En: That evening, grandmother Zhen noticed Lian's unease.Zh: 她轻轻拍了拍莲的肩膀，开始讲一个关于坚持的故事。En: She gently patted Lian's shoulder and began to tell a story about perseverance.Zh: 奶奶讲的是她年轻时种稻子的故事，“尽管遇到了大雨、虫灾，但坚持下去，总有收获。”En: Zhen recounted her youth when she grew rice: “Despite heavy rains and pests, by persisting, there was always a harvest.”Zh: “你一定要坚持自己的梦想，同时也别忘了家庭的温暖。”震的故事让莲深受感动。En: “You must persist in your dreams, but also remember the warmth of family.” Zhen's story deeply moved Lian.Zh: 第二天，明走到莲跟前：“对不起，昨天是我太急躁了。En: The next day, Ming approached Lian: “I'm sorry, I was too impatient yesterday.Zh: 我帮你画些背景吧，这样我们可以早点出去玩。”En: I'll help you paint some of the background so we can finish earlier and go out to play.”Zh: 莲笑了，她知道明是真心支持她。En: Lian smiled, knowing that Ming genuinely supported her.Zh: 于是，他们一起努力完成了画作。En: Together, they worked hard to complete the painting.Zh: 这个夏天，莲学会了在追求梦想和家庭生活之间找到平衡。En: This summer, Lian learned to find a balance between pursuing her dreams and family life.Zh: 比赛那天，她信心满满，因为她知道有家人最真诚的支持。En: On the day of the competition, she was full of confidence because she knew she had her family's sincere support.Zh: 虽然输赢未定，但她已经是胜者，因为她学会了自信，还收获了更多亲情。En: Regardless of the outcome, she was already a winner because she learned self-confidence and gained more familial affection.Zh: 夏天的风继续吹过小区，孩子们的笑声伴着蝉鸣，一切都显得那么和谐美好。En: The summer wind continued to blow through the neighborhood, the children's laughter mingled with the chan singing, making everything seem so harmonious and beautiful. Vocabulary Words:scorching: 炎炎buzzing: 叫个不停porches: 门廊上essence: 味道artist: 艺术家competition: 比赛sports: 运动focus: 专心torn: 为难perseverance: 坚持harvest: 收获argument: 争吵anxious: 紧张curtly: 回绝discontentedly: 不满地doubt: 怀疑unease: 不安patience: 耐心persist: 坚持下去balance: 两全其美affection: 亲情harmony: 和谐美好pursuing: 追求sincere: 真诚的familial: 家庭genuine: 真心impatient: 急躁background: 背景confidence: 信心满满self-confidence: 自信

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Finding Balance and Inspiration on Shanghai's Vibrant Waitan Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-08-02-22-34-02-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 清晨，上海的外滩笼罩在金色的阳光中。En: In the early morning, the Waitan in Shanghai is bathed in golden sunlight.Zh: 黄浦江的水面反射着迷人的光芒，天际线上的摩天大楼闪烁着光辉。En: The surface of the Huangpu River reflects enchanting light, and the skyscrapers on the skyline shimmer with brilliance.Zh: 游客和当地人沿着繁忙的长廊漫步，享受着这座城市独特的生机和活力。En: Tourists and locals stroll along the busy promenade, enjoying the unique vitality of this city.Zh: 每天清晨，明霞都会在这里慢跑。En: Every morning, Mingxia jogs here.Zh: 她是一名市场营销主管，虽然工作繁忙，她仍对摄影充满热情。En: She is a marketing director who, despite her busy work schedule, is still passionate about photography.Zh: 她梦想着开一家展现城市生活的画廊。En: She dreams of opening a gallery that showcases city life.Zh: 但她的问题是，总是缺乏时间。En: But her problem is that she always lacks time.Zh: 另外一边，魏也是这里的常客。En: On the other hand, Wei is also a regular here.Zh: 他是一位科技企业家，喜欢通过跑步来清理思绪。En: He is a tech entrepreneur who enjoys clearing his mind through running.Zh: 他最近的新创业项目让他压力重重，难以放松。En: His recent startup project has been extremely stressful, making it hard for him to relax.Zh: 他们常常在外滩上擦肩而过，每次只是点头微笑。En: They often pass each other on the Waitan, always just nodding and smiling.Zh: 某一天，明霞决定改变她的早晨跑步路线，她想寻找新灵感。En: One day, Mingxia decides to change her morning jogging route, hoping to find new inspiration.Zh: 而魏也鼓起勇气，打破了平常独自跑步的习惯，决定和她聊天。En: Meanwhile, Wei musters up the courage to break his usual habit of running alone and decides to chat with her.Zh: “早上好！”魏在一次恰巧相遇时对她说道。En: "Good morning!" Wei says to her during a chance encounter.Zh: 明霞惊讶地回头，微笑着回应：“你好，经常在这里看到你。”En: Surprised, Mingxia turns back and responds with a smile, "Hello, I often see you here."Zh: 随着时间的推进，他们的对话越来越自然。En: As time goes by, their conversations become more natural.Zh: 两人分享了许多关于工作和生活的经历。En: The two share many experiences about work and life.Zh: 明霞发现，魏对生活的追求不仅仅是工作，而是找到内心的平衡。En: Mingxia discovers that Wei's pursuit in life is not just work, but finding inner balance.Zh: 而魏则被她对城市的独特视角所吸引。En: Meanwhile, Wei is drawn to her unique perspective on the city.Zh: 转眼Qixi节就到了，这个充满浪漫色彩的日子，外滩更显得热闹非凡。En: Soon, the Qixi Festival arrives, a day filled with romantic hues, making the Waitan even more lively.Zh: 明霞和魏做了一个即兴的决定，他们一起去探寻这座城市的节日庆典。En: Mingxia and Wei make an impromptu decision to explore the city's festive celebrations together.Zh: 在夜幕降临中，他们游走于各个摊位，分享彼此的梦想和心事。En: As night falls, they wander through various stalls, sharing their dreams and thoughts.Zh: 就在这时，明霞用她的相机捕捉到了魏站在灯火通明的背景下的微笑。En: At this moment, Mingxia captures Wei's smile against the backdrop of bright lights with her camera.Zh: 这个瞬间，正是她一直寻找的城市能量的体现。En: This moment embodies the city energy she has been searching for.Zh: 几个月后，明霞的画廊开幕了，那张在Qixi节拍下的照片成了展出作品之一，引起了很大的反响。En: A few months later, Mingxia's gallery opens, and the photo taken during the Qixi Festival becomes one of the exhibits, generating a significant response.Zh: 与此同时，魏找到了自己的平衡点，在繁忙工作和生活享乐之间学会了调和。En: Meanwhile, Wei finds his balance, learning to harmonize between busy work and enjoying life.Zh: 透过彼此的激励，明霞开始注重人与人之间的联系，融入她的摄影作品中。En: Through each other's encouragement, Mingxia begins to focus on connections between people, incorporating them into her photography.Zh: 而魏则感受到与明霞的交流，让他学会了珍惜当下，欣赏生活中的小确幸。En: Wei, on the other hand, feels that his interactions with Mingxia have taught him to cherish the present and appreciate the small joys in life.Zh: 外滩依旧灯火通明，两人并肩站在一起，看着城市的繁华与宁静。En: The Waitan remains brightly lit, as the two stand side by side, gazing at the city's prosperity and tranquility.Zh: 他们都知道，自己在这座城市中找到了属于自己的平衡。En: They both know they have found their own balance in this city. Vocabulary Words:bathed: 笼罩enchanting: 迷人shimmer: 闪烁promenade: 长廊vitality: 活力jog: 慢跑marketing director: 市场营销主管showcases: 展现gallery: 画廊lack: 缺乏entrepreneur: 企业家startup: 创业stressful: 压力重重natural: 自然perspective: 视角romantic hues: 浪漫色彩lively: 热闹非凡impromptu: 即兴explore: 探寻stalls: 摊位capture: 捕捉exhibits: 展出作品response: 反响harmonize: 调和encouragement: 激励connections: 联系cherish: 珍惜appreciate: 欣赏prosperity: 繁华tranquility: 宁静

The world famous Bottom of the Stream podcast visits Taiwan this week as we talk about 2018 comedy horror flick: Secrets in the Hot Spring. Listen on to hear what we made of this one, help us brush up on our Mandarin and find out exactly what our appetite is for a haunted house movie with a Benny Hill style comedy twist….   Bottom of the stream is a weekly podcast, hosted by film lovers Adam and Nick, exploring the parts of Netflix that most people don't go to in a bid to find out what hidden gems are lurking down there Every week we rank the films we watch against each other and place them in what we like to call THE STREAM TABLE which can be found on our website  www.bottomofthestream.com Follow us on Twitter, instagram and letterboxed at @bots_podcast  Please consider supporting the show on Patreon, If you do we will give you lots of bonus content including early access to the episodes. Check it out over at www.patreon.com/bottomofthestream   We also now have a discord so join us to hang out https://discord.gg/wJ3Bfqt

Send us a textMy guest is Matt Mikalatos — author, screenwriter, producer, and all-around brilliant storyteller. He has written award-winning books, including the beautifully illustrated graphic novel God With Us, the devotional Praying with Saint Nicholas, and an imaginative Young Adult fantasy series, The Sunlit Lands. He's also co-authored Loving Disagreement with Kathy Khang — a timely, powerful book about how to stay in relationship, even when the culture says it's time to cancel.As an undergraduate student in creative writing at the University of California, Riverside, Matt studied under the Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist, Percival Everett, author of the wildly popular novel entitled JAMES.  Matt's story doesn't stop there. He spent 20 years with a global campus ministry (Campus Crusade for Christ now known as CRU), lived in China, became fluent in Mandarin, and worked deeply in cross-cultural ministry. He's seen the evolution — or devolution — of Evangelicalism from the inside, and he doesn't shy away from talking about it. From Trumpism and anti-democratic rhetoric to hot-button issues like immigration, LGBTQ rights, and even “chainsaw massacre” politics, we go there — and Matt helps us understand the power of story over shouting matches.There's exciting news - he's just been notified that a script he's written has been greenlit. The production of a full-length feature film begins soon, with filming in Thailand.Join me as Matt and I talk about faith, storytelling, culture, and how, in this divided world, we can still communicate and respect each other — even when we disagree. It's a lively, eye-opening, and deeply human exchange you won't want to miss. Mike Mikalatos WebSiteSupport the showBecome a Patron - Click on the link to learn how you can become a Patron of the show. Thank you! Ken's Substack Page The Podcast Official Site: TheBeachedWhiteMale.com

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