In this episode, Tom and Ula dive into the messy, hilarious, and honest journey of personal growth. From embracing the cringe that comes with putting yourself out there creatively, to exploring how AI is transforming content creation, they get candid about the highs and lows of doing what you love. They also dream out loud about future community events, live gatherings, and the lifelong journey of learning languages. Expect laughs, real talk, and a healthy dose of encouragement to just keep goin...
Jul 04, 2025•57 min•Ep. 409
In this episode of the Mandarin Monkey Podcast, Tom and Ula get reflective about some of life’s biggest questions—what does wealth really mean, and is it the same as happiness? The pair open up about their journey through podcasting, parenting three kids, and navigating life’s chaos while trying to stay sane (or at least, mildly caffeinated). They explore how wealth without purpose feels hollow, why goals matter even if they shift, and the underrated power of boredom when your brain needs a brea...
Jun 27, 2025•1 hr 1 min
In this episode, we sweat through England’s heat wave while chatting about 3D printing family models, the oddities of British vs American English, and the quirks of parenting in ridiculous temperatures. From language mishaps to sleep-deprived parenting rants, it’s a mix of humour, insight, and the occasional meltdown. ALl spoken in Mandarin and English for your listening pleasure. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jun 20, 2025•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 407
In this episode, we get personal. We talk fatherhood, the shifting idea of what it means to be a ‘man,’ and how dads today are navigating emotion, law, and family. From our own experiences to the broader cultural shifts, we explore how parenting and masculinity are evolving, sometimes slowly, sometimes painfully. Then we zoom out. We dive into the brutal reality of the job market, how AI is flipping industries on their heads, and what that means for all of us. We explore the future of learning, ...
Jun 13, 2025•56 min•Ep. 406
In this episode of the Mandarin Monkey Podcast, Tom and Ula take listeners on a conversational journey covering everything from rescuing snails to the surprising genre of cozy fantasy. They share personal stories, listener feedback about subtitles, and survival tips for the salt flats, all wrapped in reflections on parenting, cultural sensitivity, and language learning. Whether it's talking to kids about historical figures, planning travel adventures, or discussing the purpose behind the show, t...
Jun 06, 2025•1 hr•Ep. 405
In this episode, we dive into the joys and pains of podcast production, the growing importance of bilingualism in career paths, and how AI is quietly reshaping language learning and job interviews. We also tackle parenting in the tech age, the screen-time struggle, and how different generations navigate the digital world. Oh, and yes—streaming has definitely changed everything. Key Takeaways Making a podcast is harder than it looks (trust us, we’ve done a few). Being bilingual gives you a seriou...
May 30, 2025•52 min•Ep. 404
In this episode of the Mandarin Monkey Podcast, Tom and Ula dive into some of the strangest bans and laws from around the world, from chewing gum in Singapore to government-approved reincarnation in Tibet. Through light-hearted yet insightful discussion, they explore how these bans reflect deeper cultural values, political symbolism, religious influences, and social expectations. You'll also pick up real Mandarin vocabulary along the way, making this a perfect listen for language learners who wa...
May 23, 2025•57 min•Ep. 403
Looking for a fun way to learn Mandarin while exploring the world’s strangest places? In this episode, we take you on a global journey to the weirdest tourist attractions from haunted doll islands to underwater post offices. Along the way, you’ll pick up real Mandarin vocabulary and cultural insights that go way beyond textbooks. Perfect for Mandarin learners , Chinese language enthusiasts , or anyone curious about bizarre travel destinations. Join us as we break down the Mandarin for each stran...
May 16, 2025•52 min•Ep. 402
Today on the Mandarin Monkey Podcast, we dive into the beautiful Cotswolds and share our experiences camping in two stunning locations. But things took an unexpected turn when we crossed paths with a stranger who might not have been as friendly as they seemed... Find out what happened! 今天在 Mandarin Monkey，我们深入探讨了科茨沃尔德（Cotswolds）的美丽风光，并分享了我们在两个迷人地点露营的经历。但事情发生了意想不到的转折，当我们遇到了一位看似不那么友善的陌生人... 想知道发生了什么吗? Sorry no word list today as we just had a casual chat! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for...
May 09, 2025•52 min•Ep. 401
To celebrate 400 episodes of Mandarin Monkey, we’re not getting sentimental, we’re getting strange. Join us as we break down 40 of the weirdest, most useful, and most culturally revealing Mandarin words and phrases we’ve come across. From “snake milker” vocab to expressions for being awkward, overstuffed, or emotionally destroyed, this episode is packed with language you won’t find in your average textbook. Perfect for learners who want to laugh, expand their vocab, and celebrate a massive miles...
Apr 25, 2025•54 min•Ep. 400
Think your job is strange? In this episode, we explore 20 of the world’s weirdest real-life occupations — from snake milkers and underwater pizza delivery drivers to professional cuddlers and scream evaluators. Along the way, we’ll teach you how to say each one in Mandarin, complete with vocabulary, pronunciation, and a few questionable career choices. Perfect for Mandarin learners who want to expand their vocab and their sense of what counts as a job. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for ...
Apr 17, 2025•46 min•Ep. 399
In this episode, we explore 20 of the most ridiculous, real world records ever set — and learn how to talk about them in Mandarin. From smashing toilet seats with your head to balancing snails on your face, this is your crash course in weirdness and useful Mandarin vocabulary. Whether you’re a language learner or just love strange facts, we’ve got you covered. Mandarin Vocabulary List (Traditional + Pinyin + English) 一次穿最多件T恤 | yī cì chuān zuì duō jiàn T xù | Most T-shirts worn at once 最長指甲 | zu...
Apr 04, 2025•58 min•Ep. 398
From baby mop outfits to chopstick fans and silent karaoke mics — the world has no shortage of strange inventions. In this episode, Tom and Ula explore 20 bizarre gadgets from around the globe and break down the Mandarin vocabulary behind each one. It’s the perfect mix of language learning, cultural curiosity, and a whole lot of "Wait… that's real?" Whether you're here for the vocab or just want to hear us try to explain what a "nose stylus" is in Mandarin… this one’s for you. 嬰兒拖把衣 | yīng ér tu...
Mar 28, 2025•51 min•Ep. 397
1. Balut – Fertilized duck embryo (Philippines) 鴨仔蛋 | yā zǐ dàn | Duck embryo egg 2. Surströmming – Fermented herring (Sweden) 瑞典酸鯡魚 | ruì diǎn suān fèi yú | Swedish sour herring 3. Casu Marzu – Maggot cheese (Italy) 活蛆乳酪 | huó qū rǔ lào | Live maggot cheese 4. Fried Tarantula (Cambodia) 炸狼蛛 | zhà láng zhū | Fried tarantula 5. Hákarl – Fermented shark (Iceland) 發酵鯊魚肉 | fā xiào shā yú ròu | Fermented shark meat 6. Sannakji – Live baby octopus (Korea) 活章魚 | huó zhāng yú | Live octopus 7. Escamoles...
Mar 21, 2025•56 min•Ep. 396
Ever heard of a law that bans you from handling salmon "suspiciously"? Or a rule that says men must wear Speedos at public pools in France? In this episode, we dive into some of the strangest, most ridiculous laws from around the world. From kites being outlawed in the UK to Japan’s weight regulations, we break down these bizarre rules, their origins, and whether they actually make any sense. Plus, we’ll throw in some Mandarin vocabulary along the way, so you can learn while you laugh! Would you...
Mar 14, 2025•43 min•Ep. 395
Unusual Hobbies (特殊的爱好 - tè shū de ài hào) Extreme Ironing (极限熨烫) – jí xiàn yùn tàng Quidditch (魁地奇) – kuí dì qí Cheese Rolling (奶酪滚动比赛) – nǎi lào gǔn dòng bǐ sài Toy Voyaging (玩具旅行) – wán jù lǚ xíng Competitive Duck Herding (竞技赶鸭子) – jìng jì gǎn yā zi Trainspotting (火车观察) – huǒ chē guān chá Mooing Competitions (学牛叫比赛) – xué niú jiào bǐ sài Soapbox Racing (肥皂盒赛车) – féi zào hé sài chē Bog Snorkeling (泥潭浮潜) – ní tán fú qián Stone Skipping (打水漂比赛) – dǎ shuǐ piāo bǐ sài Ferret Legging (裤子养雪貂比赛) – kù...
Mar 07, 2025•59 min•Ep. 394
In this episode of the Mandarin Monkey Podcast , we chat about the Eisenhower Matrix (艾森豪威尔矩阵, Àisēnháowēi’ěr jǔzhèn) —not as experts, but just as two people trying to figure out where all our time goes. We’ve all been there: feeling 忙碌 (mánglù, busy) but not necessarily productive (有成效的, yǒu chéngxiào de) . So, what actually makes something 重要 (zhòngyào, important) versus just 紧急 (jǐnjí, urgent) ? 我们不是在教你如何管理时间，而是聊聊我们自己是怎么思考这些问题的。为什么有些任务看起来 很急 (hěn jí) ，但其实没什么意义？为什么真正重要的事情，往往被推到最后才做？我们的生活中有哪些任务...
Feb 28, 2025•59 min•Ep. 393
In episode #392 of Mandarin Monkey , we speculate about what it’s like moving to the mountains in Taiwan (we don't live in the mountains) and the joys (and challenges) of using Starlink for internet. We also dive into the differences between nosy neighbors in English and Taiwanese culture—who’s watching, who’s gossiping, and who just doesn’t care? Finally, we put our translation skills to the test with I Do It Anyway by Yoshi 2.0. Some lyrics make sense, some... not so much. Tune in for a mix of...
Feb 21, 2025•59 min•Ep. 392
In this episode of the Mandarin Monkey Podcast , Tom and Ula dive into the world of untranslatable words —those linguistic gems that exist in Mandarin but leave English speakers scratching their heads, and vice versa. They explore phrases like "懒得理 (lǎn de lǐ)" —the perfect expression for when you just can’t be bothered—and "面子 (miànzi)" , the all-important social concept of saving face. From the emotional richness of "心酸 (xīn suān)" —that bittersweet feeling of nostalgia—to the English quirk of...
Feb 14, 2025•57 min•Ep. 391
In this engaging episode of the Mandarin Monkey Podcast, hosts Tom and Ula delve into the fascinating world of literal translations between Mandarin and English. They explore how certain phrases, when translated word-for-word, can lead to humorous or confusing interpretations due to cultural and linguistic differences. The discussion includes idioms and expressions from both languages, highlighting the challenges and amusement that arise in translation. Listeners are treated to examples such as ...
Feb 07, 2025•50 min•Ep. 390
Ula and Tom speak about some confusing Mandarin and English words. All in Mandarin and English (Chinglish) for your listening pleasure. Mandarin Lessons www.mandarinmonkey.com 帶 (dài) vs. 戴 (dài) 帶 (dài) : to bring/carry ( 請帶你的護照。Qǐng dài nǐ de hùzhào. – Please bring your passport. ) 戴 (dài) : to wear (accessories) ( 她戴了一條項鍊。Tā dài le yī tiáo xiàngliàn. – She wore a necklace. ) 買 (mǎi) vs. 賣 (mài) 買 (mǎi) : to buy ( 我買了一本書。Wǒ mǎi le yī běn shū. – I bought a book. ) 賣 (mài) : to sell ( 這家店賣衣服。Zhè...
Jan 31, 2025•56 min•Ep. 389
Unpleasant Sounds or Awkward Pronunciation 膩 (nì) – Greasy, overly rich (often used for food but also for excessive behavior). 黏 (nián) – Sticky, clinging (can refer to textures or overly attached people). 齁 (hōu) – Overly sweet or salty (common in Taiwanese Mandarin but sounds rough). 癢 (yǎng) – Itchy (some dislike the way it sounds when spoken). 喳喳叫 (zhā zhā jiào) – Chattering noisily (annoying both in sound and meaning). Gross or Unpleasant Associations 痰 (tán) – Phlegm. 膿 (nóng) – Pus. 流湯 (l...
Jan 24, 2025•52 min•Ep. 388
The U.S. is taking steps to ban TikTok—so what does this mean for users, creators, and businesses? In this episode of Mandarin Monkey , Ula (speaking Mandarin) and Tom (speaking English) dive into the controversy surrounding TikTok’s potential ban in America. We discuss why the U.S. government is pushing for it, what might happen next, and whether TikTok can survive this legal battle. Join us for a bilingual discussion that breaks down the issue from multiple angles—political, economic, and cult...
Jan 17, 2025•1 hr 7 min•Ep. 387
In this episode, Tom and Ula dive into the ultimate holiday debate: Do you plan every detail of your trip, have one big activity in mind, or just relax the entire time? Ula speaks in Mandarin, while Tom responds in English, creating a perfect mix of conversational practice for Mandarin learners. Whether you’re planning your next getaway or looking to improve your listening skills, this episode offers an engaging discussion to help you practice Mandarin while exploring different travel styles. Ho...
Jan 10, 2025•45 min•Ep. 386
In this bilingual episode of the Mandarin Monkey Podcast, Tom and Ula dive into their New Year’s goals and share practical strategies to make them happen. Ula speaks Mandarin, while Tom provides the English perspective, creating the perfect blend for language learners and goal-setters alike. Whether you’re aiming for personal growth, career success, or healthier habits, this episode offers insights on staying motivated and taking actionable steps toward your dreams. Tune in for inspiration, a do...
Jan 03, 2025•54 min•Ep. 385
Looking for a fun and relaxed way to improve your Mandarin? Join Tom and Ula for this bilingual podcast where they mix Mandarin and English to talk about everyday life, gaming, and parenting. This week, they explore how Stardew Valley makes them so relaxed they nearly fall asleep, while Enshrouded keeps their focus sharp. They also chat about the challenges of raising kids in a tech-savvy world and their youngest son’s bedtime struggles. Stay tuned for a festive discussion about Christmas—just i...
Dec 20, 2024•41 min•Ep. 384
In this episode of Mandarin Monkey, we dive into the exciting changes happening at Mandarin Monkey! We discuss our plans to rebrand the website and update our podcast thumbnails to better connect with our audience. We also chat about new merchandise ideas and fitting acoustic panels in our new studio for an even better recording experience. Travel dreams take center stage as we weigh the magic of Disneyland Paris against the thrills of Europa Park, while tackling the fear of turbulence when flyi...
Dec 13, 2024•46 min•Ep. 383
In this episode of the Mandarin Monkey Podcast , we dive into the fascinating world of TikTokers and live streamers in Taiwan and China—how they captivate audiences and grow their following. We also share plans to transform our home into a winter wonderland and brainstorm festive ideas for Chinese New Year. Plus, an update on exciting plans for our studio! Whether you're learning Mandarin, exploring Chinese culture, or just love our bilingual banter, this episode has something for everyone. List...
Dec 06, 2024•41 min•Ep. 382
In this episode, Tom and Ula take you on a hilarious journey through the chaos of moving into their new home. From a wardrobe that refused to cooperate to an almost-electrical fire that cost a whopping $500 to fix, they’re sharing it all—with plenty of Chinglish banter along the way! Whether you’re learning Mandarin or just love a good bilingual chat, this episode is packed with fun stories, useful vocab, and a reminder that even disasters can be funny (after the smoke clears). Perfect for Manda...
Nov 29, 2024•32 min•Ep. 381
In this episode we are waiting for a call from our solicitor to let us know everything has gone through on our new house purchase. Nervousness, excitement, apprehension it's all in this episode. Oh, and we are standing up because we threw away our chairs and packed most of the studio. All spoken in Mandairn and English for you learners of Chinese and English. www.mandarinmonkey.com <---- for Mandarin Lessons Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....
Nov 15, 2024•35 min•Ep. 380
