ChinesePod - Beginner

Elementary | Going to the Pharmacy

March 03, 2020 18:00 - 15 minutes - 27.8 MB

Being sick sucks, but being sick in Chinese really sucks. If you haven't lost your voice yet, get yourself down to the corner pharmacy for some relief. The smorgasbord of remedies range from the thick, boiled and black variety to something of the pill genre that you can't decipher from the box. But that 'pharmacist' behind the counter looks kinda trustworthy, no? Listen and learn more in order to heal thyself, in Mandarin. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0857

Intermediate | Dad's Got a Cold

February 25, 2020 18:00 - 12 minutes - 22.2 MB

The weather has got much colder and this father has caught a cold taking his two kids to the seaside. As any loving father would do, he has lent his jacket to them, and in the process caught the most dreadful of colds. Listen to his story and feel bad for him.

Intermediate | Cold Will Kill You

February 18, 2020 18:00 - 14 minutes - 26.4 MB

Anyone who has passed a damp Shanghai winter in an unheated apartment would agree with the title of this lesson. But fear of cold takes on many faces in traditional Chinese thinking. Listen to this podcast, as a grandma warns of the dark side of 'cold', in Mandarin.

Newbie | How Old Are You?

February 10, 2020 18:00 - 11 minutes - 20.4 MB

How old are you? When an adult asks another adult this question, guessing games are likely to ensue. In this dialog, the question is met with just this kind of response. Learn the Chinese to ask this question, and pick up a coyly evasive (but simple!) response at the same time. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1752

Newbie | Making a Dinner Reservation, Part 1

February 03, 2020 18:00 - 12 minutes - 22.8 MB

Making a dinner reservation over the phone can be a daunting prospect, especially when restaurant on the other end of the line is exceptionally noisy and hard to understand. Thankfully, the exchange is actually fairly straightforward and scripted, and with the help of today's newbie lesson to break it down piece by piece, you'll be making reservations for you and your friends in no time! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1922

Newbie | Let Me Sleep a Little Longer

January 28, 2020 18:00 - 11 minutes - 21 MB

If you're the kind of person that even the alarm clock doesn't wake, then you'll have definitely experienced a conversation similar to this. Learn how to tell someone that you want to sleep that little bit longer. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2625

Newbie | Answering the Door

January 21, 2020 18:00 - 10 minutes - 19.9 MB

OK, so even if you haven't come to China to pursue that job as a door-to-door salesman, you may need to call on a Chinese friend. Learn the appropriate phrases for the person on each side of the door in this lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1712

Newbie | Saying Goodbye

January 13, 2020 18:00 - 12 minutes - 22.7 MB

You've had a wonderful time with your friends but you're worn out and ready to leave. It's time to go. But how do you break the news to your undoubtedly disappointed friends? Learn how to leave a social situation gracefully in Mandarin Chinese with today's newbie lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1890

Newbie | Which city do you like?

January 06, 2020 18:00 - 13 minutes - 25.3 MB

Ah, the eternal question... do you like Shanghai, or do you like Beijing? It's a question that both Chinese and foreigners alike enjoy debating, and with the rapid development of both cities, it kind of feels like a new discussion every time. So take your first steps into this discussion in Chinese with this lesson! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1972

Newbie | Making a Dinner Reservation - Part 1

January 06, 2020 15:28 - 12 minutes - 22.8 MB

Making a dinner reservation over the phone can be a daunting prospect, especially when restaurant on the other end of the line is exceptionally noisy and hard to understand. Thankfully, the exchange is actually fairly straightforward and scripted, and with the help of today's newbie lesson to break it down piece by piece, you'll be making reservations for you and your friends in no time!

Newbie | What time do you get up?

January 06, 2020 15:16 - 12 minutes - 22.2 MB

Rise and shine! This newbie lesson involves a discussion about getting out of bed in the morning and getting off to school.

Newbie | Asking About Prices

December 30, 2019 18:00 - 13 minutes - 24.3 MB

When you're in China, you're going to need to buy stuff. When you buy stuff, it's best to actually know how much money something costs rather than just blindly throwing money at the merchant. Learn how to ask how much things cost in today's newbie lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1966

Newbie | What Time Do You Get Up?

December 23, 2019 18:00 - 12 minutes - 22.2 MB

Rise and shine! This newbie lesson involves a discussion about getting out of bed in the morning and getting off to school. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2037

Newbie | New School Term

December 16, 2019 18:00 - 15 minutes - 28.4 MB

Here's a Chinese lesson for all you students out there, who live and die (hopefully not die) by the academic calendar. One of the most pertinent questions for any student whose vacation is rapidly coming to an end is: "when does the new term begin?" Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1743

Upper-intermediate | Dropping Marriage Hints

December 09, 2019 18:00 - 15 minutes - 28.9 MB

You know how your girlfriend has been mercilessly dropping marriage hints, and you've been equally heartlessly pretending not to notice? Well, it's actually kind of bumming her out, so you can bet she's going to have a heart-to-heart with her Chinese girlfriends about this critical issue. In this lesson, you get to eavesdrop on the ladies' take on your behavior.

Intermediate | Going to the Gym

December 02, 2019 18:00 - 18 minutes - 33.1 MB

Quick! Name another great thing about ChinesePod. That’s right! You can listen anywhere – taxi, home, or even the gym! What’s that, you say? You’d love nothing more than a lesson on “working out?” Well, we love nothing more than you, so consider it done. In this podcast, learn to talk about weight training, yoga and much more, all in Mandarin Chinese.

Intermediate | Complaining to the Waiter

November 25, 2019 18:00 - 17 minutes - 31.4 MB

Once again, we shed our “puppy dogs and ice cream” demeanor with a lesson on being peeved. In this lesson, Ken (gets furious when we call him Sharon) and Jenny (don’t let that great head of hair throw ya, she’ll scratch your eyes out) take a deep breath, count to ten and lead you in a podcast on getting upset. In this podcast, learn to talk in Mandarin Chinese about being upset, and what you’re going to do about it.

Intermediate | Going on a Diet

November 18, 2019 18:00 - 15 minutes - 28.1 MB

In the Tang Dynasty, to be fat was to be beautiful. Nowadays, as the Bling Dynasty sweeps the nation, oh how the tables have turned. China is a land of magical weight-loss remedies. Whether it's braving the acupuncture needles, downing little "herbal" pills, or, for the more traditional, training on the humble hula hoop, weight-loss methods abound. Listen to this podcast to learn how some Chinese friends plan to lose that "spare tire."

Upper-intermediate | Customs Consultancy

November 11, 2019 18:00 - 18 minutes - 33.5 MB

If you're interested in learning Chinese for business purposes this is the lesson for you. You'll learn how to ask about customs tax and the procedures you have to go through in getting your products into the Chinese market.

Upper-intermediate | Applying for a Visa

November 04, 2019 18:00 - 18 minutes - 34.4 MB

Prior to 1979, a great look at the Great Wall was nothing more than a great dream. These days, you’re more than welcome to visit the P.R.C., but not without a proper visa. Thinking about coming? Love learning Mandarin? How ‘bout we combine the two in a podcast lesson on sorting out your travel documentation, using Mandarin Chinese.

Newbie | Where Did You Go?

October 28, 2019 18:00 - 12 minutes - 23.6 MB

How do you use Chinese to say where you've been, and when you were there? In today's Mandarin lesson, you'll learn how to talk about where you were and when you went there. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1236

Newbie | What's Your Job?

October 21, 2019 18:00 - 10 minutes - 19.9 MB

Today's Chinese podcast will teach you how to talk about your job or lack thereof. No matter whether you're an easy-living bohemian, a diligent student, or an uptight and mildly incompetent middle manager, ChinesePod can help you learn how to talk about your job in Mandarin. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1226

Newbie | Taxi Conversations: Small Talk

October 14, 2019 18:00 - 11 minutes - 21.8 MB

“Why are you here?” Not in a self-help sort of way, but more in explaining to your driver why you’re here exactly. In this, another podcast that could be considered our “Traveler’s Audio Phrase Book”, we’ll help you carry on that initial conversation in Mandarin Chinese with your ever-present built-in friend, the taxi driver. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0056

Newbie | How Many People Are in Your Family?

October 07, 2019 18:00 - 11 minutes - 21.8 MB

Ah, the home front. Any self-respecting Mandarin learner has their work cut out for them in deciphering the who's who of a Chinese family. And don't think the one-child policy makes things any easier. So, line 'em up, and get them all straight in this podcast which will enlighten you on the members of a Chinese family. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0676

Newbie | How many people are in your family?

October 07, 2019 18:00 - 11 minutes - 21.8 MB

Ah, the home front. Any self-respecting Mandarin learner has their work cut out for them in deciphering the who's who of a Chinese family. And don't think the one-child policy makes things any easier. So, line 'em up, and get them all straight in this podcast which will enlighten you on the members of a Chinese family.

Newbie | Invitation to Dinner

September 30, 2019 18:00 - 13 minutes - 24.2 MB

In China, where eating is always the the central activity around which all else is planned, dinner with friends is the preferred way to socialize. So you'd best prepare yourself for dinner invitations and being treated to meals. Cover the basics in this Chinese lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1780

Newbie | Is it spicy

September 23, 2019 18:00 - 9 minutes - 18.3 MB

Chinese food is well known for its variety, and one of those variable factors is spiciness. In this Chinese lesson, learn how to clearly ask if something is spicy or not. Just don't complain to us if you can't handle the heat!

Newbie | Is It Spicy?

September 23, 2019 18:00 - 9 minutes - 18.3 MB

Chinese food is well known for its variety, and one of those variable factors is spiciness. In this Chinese lesson, learn how to clearly ask if something is spicy or not. Just don't complain to us if you can't handle the heat! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1707

Newbie | Weekend Activities

September 16, 2019 18:00 - 20 minutes - 37.4 MB

Don't be surprised when your Chinese friends start asking you what you do on the weekends. (Foreigners are known to have riotously good times on the weekends, as faithfully reported by Hollywood.) In this lesson, learn how to make a connection and ask a friend in Mandarin Chinese what they are up to this weekend (AKA fishing for an invite). Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1692

Newbie | Turn Right, Turn Left

September 09, 2019 18:00 - 13 minutes - 24.2 MB

So you've successfully communicated the address to the taxi driver, but as he approaches your final destination he needs a bit more help. Be sure you know the Chinese for "turn right" and "turn left" so you can avoid the extra "I couldn't explain exactly where to go so I ended up just getting out at the wrong place" walk of shame. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1271

Newbie | Awkward Silence

September 02, 2019 18:00 - 10 minutes - 18.9 MB

You ever get in an elevator with someone you know and have nothing to say? Yeah, it's kinda... awkward. In Chinese as well. Just like in this lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1641

Newbie | Away on Business

August 26, 2019 18:00 - 12 minutes - 23.1 MB

Do you often travel on business in China? Here's a Mandarin lesson that will help you to explain where you're going and when you'll be back. In this class we'll explain some useful phrases to use when you're traveling on business. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1256

Dear Amber | Massage and Renting an Apartment

August 19, 2019 18:00 - 21 minutes - 39.3 MB

In today's show Amber and guests talk about some racy and not-so-racy massages in China, as well as give you the scoop on how to go about renting an apartment when you arrive here. And a special treat--another interview with one of our very own Cpoddies, Madeleine Greey. She started her Mandarin-learning journey way back in the 80's, and tells us about her experiences in learning Chinese way-back-when. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/CA0008

Any | Bazza and Dating Chinese Girls

August 12, 2019 18:00 - 21 minutes - 39.9 MB

This week, the moment you've all been waiting for, our dear long-time poddie Bazza joins Amber and his beloved Jenny in the studio and tells all. Also, returning cohort Clay gives some insight into the male mind and Chinese girls... plus, just in time for flu season, we get the low-down on some interesting Chinese remedies for what ails you. Enjoy! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/CA0009

Dear Amber | Nakedness and Thieves

August 05, 2019 18:00 - 19 minutes - 36.4 MB

This week on Dear Amber we hear firsthand from a student of Chinese about applying for scholarships to Chinese Universities. In addition, an interesting expose on nudity in China. And last but not least... DA cares! Watch your wallets... with Chinese New Year approaching, we give out some tips on preventing thievery on the streets. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/CA0011

Dear Amber | Bachelors, Acting, and Game Shows

July 29, 2019 18:00 - 21 minutes - 38.8 MB

Today on Dear Amber, we kick off a new series of answers about different sorts of jobs foreigners can get in China, and what it's like working here--today's is about two-bit movie parts and bad acting. We also hear back from our two bachelors-about-town about what life is like as a single guy in China. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/CA0013

Dear Amber | Beauty Ideals and Ayi

July 22, 2019 18:00 - 22 minutes - 40.5 MB

On this week's Dear Amber we talk about the Chinese opinions of beauty, and as Chinese New Year approaches, we learn about a very particular Chinese custom you will see in almost every household. And we answer a question about what exactly an "Ayi" is, and why you should have Ayi-envy if you aren't so privileged to have one! Enjoy! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/CA0015

Dear Amber | Getting Stuff Made & Meeting People

July 15, 2019 18:00 - 24 minutes - 45 MB

Sure we know you can get anything manufactured in China, but did you know you can also get anything made? On this week's Dear Amber we hear about some of the cool stuff you can get to order. Also, a little bit about how Christmas is spent for local Chinese people, and for all you Newbies to China, a little advice on good ways to become a man or woman about town. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/CA0016

Dear Amber | Trip to the Chinese Doctor and a Special Guest

July 08, 2019 18:00 - 21 minutes - 38.5 MB

This week on Dear Amber a fun trip to the Chinese Medicine Doctor, where you'll find so much that will intrigue and entertain you... and make sure to take your medicine! Plus, we have a special interview with one of our poddies who hails from Austin, Texas--Professor Orlando R. Kelm, from the University of Texas at Austin, who shares some interesting insights into the Chinese people's view of doing business with Americans. Enjoy! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/CA0018

Dear Amber | The Non-Chinese Speaking Tourist and Toilets

July 01, 2019 18:00 - 26 minutes - 47.8 MB

This week we have a visitor stop by from America. Elliot doesn't know a word of Chinese, so listen as he tells us his experience of China through the eyes of a complete newbie! Can you get around? Can you communicate? Do you really need to take a tour or can you make it on your own? He fills us in. Plus, we answer a question on the toilet experience in China, squat vs. western... can we find a common ground? Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/CA0019

Dear Amber | Choosing a Chinese Name and Safety

June 24, 2019 18:00 - 26 minutes - 49.3 MB

Today on Dear Amber we put safety first and give some safety advice for staying alive on the streets of China. Plus, rising to the daunting challenge of picking a good Chinese name... and JP of SpanishPod joins us to talk about his foreigner-friendly food recommendations. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/CA0020

Dear Amber | Adventures in Chinese Learning

June 17, 2019 18:00 - 21 minutes - 39.9 MB

In today's show we are joined by two of our very own CPoddies, RobertK and Gaylon, two guys whose Chinese is amazing, and they share all their secrets... about learning Mandarin, and otherwise! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/CA0012

Dear Amber | Year of the Rat and Minimum Wage

June 10, 2019 18:00 - 25 minutes - 47.1 MB

This week on Dear Amber, a special treat... yes, the famous Connie of ChinesePod dialogue acting fame speaks to us for the first time in English... you heard her here first! She gives insight on what the 'Year of the Rat' means to the Chinese, as well as what these 'animal years' are all about. And... a question on the 'library' scene in Shanghai, and last but not least, an insight into what life is like at minimum wage in China. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/CA0017

Dear Amber | Feng Shui and Surgical Masks

June 03, 2019 18:00 - 23 minutes - 42.4 MB

Today on Dear Amber, we get a little 'zen'-ish and talk about feng shui... we also hear what the working world is like for a couple more foreigners in China. And a question on something you may have very well wondered about yourself: what's with the surgical masks? Plus, a bonus new feature on DA--a word of the week! I'll teach a word a week that you'll likely never learn anywhere else! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/CA0014

Elementary | Forgot to Take My Medicine Again

May 27, 2019 18:00 - 12 minutes - 22.2 MB

Learn some useful words and phrases to describe forgetting to do something, as well as vocabulary for different ailments and medicine. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2798

Intermediate | Visiting the Hospital with a Fever

May 20, 2019 18:00 - 14 minutes - 27.3 MB

With all the talk of swine flue and quarantine this year, we don't blame you if you don't want to rush to the hospital every time you run a fever. If you do go to the hospital for a check-up though (in China doctor's visits happen at hospitals, not at private practices) then today's lesson will teach you all about registering at the front desk.

Newbie | Just Call Me...

May 13, 2019 18:00 - 13 minutes - 24.3 MB

Unless your name is "John Smith" or "Anna Jones," chances are your new Chinese friends will have a little difficulty with the pronunciation of your English name. If you've adopted a Chinese name for your stay in the Middle Kingdom, you'll want to make it known to your Chinese friends. Learn how to do just that in this lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1749

ChinesePod - Beginner

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