MaoMi Chinese is a podcast and website for Mandarin Chinese learners made by a professional Chinese teacher as well as a Chinese learner - to get the best of both perspectives. We share tips and provide listening practice for intermediate+ learners. We make your learning more enjoyable by engaging you with intercultural resources across various topics.
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Today's Episode: Meet Xiong Ling, Wuhan’s “most beautiful matchmaker”! She delays divorces to give couples a second chance. Some people call her a hero, others say she oversteps. Would you agree with her bold move? Today’s episode is sponsored by Maayot Chinese , a graded Chinese reading platform packed with many helpful features. Explore it and find out more! Membership Preview: This week on MaoMi Chinese+, we will explore the hidden meaning of “matchmaker” in Chinese culture and why people say...
Today's Episode: In Shanghai, a restaurant has opened serving málàtàng for dogs! 🐶 Discover why more and more young people in China are spending big on their pets, and what this tells us about family, happiness, and modern life in China. Today’s episode is sponsored by Maayot Chinese , a graded Chinese reading platform packed with many helpful features. Explore it and find out more! Membership Preview: This week on MaoMi Chinese+, we’re back with 听新闻学中文! China’s “pet economy” is booming—restaur...
Today's Episode: Why is it so hard to ban smoking in China? 🚬 In this episode, we look at a viral story from Shanghai and explore the culture, habits, and big business behind smoking. Find out why second-hand smoke remains such a challenge — and what the future might hold! Today’s episode is sponsored by Maayot Chinese , a graded Chinese reading platform packed with many helpful features. Explore it and find out more! Membership Preview: Ever reminded someone not to smoke and got a sharp “mind ...
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 sentence...
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 sentenc...
Today's Episode: In Chinese, food isn’t just for eating—it’s for talking too! From having a “bitter melon face” to being “fired like squid”, this episode dives into funny and vivid Chinese expressions that will make your language learning even tastier. Let’s take a bite! Membership Preview: In next MaoMi Chinese+, we will discover the hidden meaning behind the Chinese slang “green tea” — a word that sounds innocent but is used to judge girls unfairly. Join us as we unpack this tricky expression ...
Today's Episode: Have you ever met someone online who loves to criticise but never helps? They type fast, speak loud, but do nothing in real life. Do you what they are called in Chinese? Today, let’s find out who they are and why they do it! Membership Preview: Want to say “no” in Chinese without hurting feelings? In next MaoMi Chinese+ episode, we reveal 5 polite ways to turn people down while saving face. Master the art of saying “no” like a native—subtle, smooth, and culturally smart! Support...
Today's Episode: A strange and shocking story from China: a man in Nanjing pretended to be a woman online, tricked hundreds of men, and secretly filmed everything. Why did so many fall for it? In this episode, we explore the “Red Sister” scandal. Membership Preview: We mentioned “来都来了” in this episode. What does it really mean? It’s not just “since you’re here”… It’s funny, useful, and surprisingly deep. In this episode, let’s break down this viral phrase in Chinese culture! Support MaoMi & ...
Today's Episode: In China, it’s not just what you know. It’s who you know. In this episode, we explore how Chinese people build relationships through food, favours, and friendship. Want to understand the true meaning of 人脉? Let’s dig in! Membership Preview: Want to network like a native? In next MaoMi Chinese+ episode, learn how to build connections the Chinese way — what to say, what not to say, and how to turn “hello” into real 人脉. Let’s go! Support MaoMi & Get exclusive to premium content...
Today's Episode: She was American, but spoke Chinese like a native. She grew up in rural China, won the Nobel Prize, and told the world real stories about Chinese people. Who was Pearl S. Buck — and why did she love China so deeply? Let’s find out in today’s episode. Membership Preview: Crazy Chinese menu translations like “Fxxk and Explode Chicken” and “Husband and Wife Lung Slices” . What do they really mean?! Join the next MaoMi Chinese+ to laugh, learn, and uncover the surprising culture and...
Today's Episode: Are you a “牛马”? This viral Chinese slang says a lot about work life today. Tune in to find out what it means and why so many young people are calling themselves cows and horses! Membership Preview: Think your job is tough? Wait till you hear about China’s “奇葩规定” from our next episode of MaoMi Chinese+! From 996 to toilet time limits, discover the wildest workplace rules young Chinese are facing today. Support MaoMi & Get exclusive to premium content! https://www.buzzsprout.c...
Today's Episode: In this episode, we explore the story of Labubu, the adorable little monster from Pop Mart’s blind boxes（盲盒）. Discover how a quiet Hong Kong artist created this beloved character and why people can’t get enough of these surprise toys. Membership Preview: Think “盲” just means blind? Think again! In next MaoMi Chinese+ episode, we uncover the hidden meanings behind this simple character. Fun, clear, and full of surprises, just like opening a mystery box! Support MaoMi & Get ex...
Today's Episode: Are you someone who takes time to warm up to others? In this episode, we explore the Chinese expression "慢热" — what it means, how to use it, and why it’s not a bad thing at all. From people to TV dramas, let’s dive into the world of slow-burn charm! Membership Preview: Ready to turn up the heat on your Chinese? In next MaoMi Chinese+ episode, we explore fun and authentic expressions with “热” you’ll hear everywhere in daily life. Natural, practical, and super useful—don’t miss it...
Today's Episode: A Chinese kindergarten went viral for teaching kids to cook, build, and wash clothes. Too intense or a clever idea? Let’s explore why it surprised the world — and what Chinese people think! Membership Preview: Why do some Chinese parents want their kids to “eat bitterness吃苦”? In next episode of MaoMi Chinese+, we explore a mindset that shapes school, work, and even childhood in China. Let’s dive into the culture behind the challenge! Support MaoMi & Get exclusive to premium ...
Today's Episode: In this episode, we talk about JD.com’s surprise entry into China’s food delivery world, and what life is really like for the riders behind your takeaway. From “ghost kitchens” to low pay and long hours — it’s more than just fast food. Membership Preview: In next episode of MaoMi Chinese+, we’ll learn how to talk about takeaway in Chinese! From ordering your favourite food to making a complaint or asking for a refund — all in simple, clear Mandarin. Perfect for real-life use! Su...
Today's Episode: What makes you laugh, cry, or suddenly feel exhausted? In this episode, discover the emotional power of the tiny word “点” and how it connects to your everyday feelings in Chinese! Membership Preview: In next MaoMi Chinese+ episode, we dig into the unspoken world of 潜台词 — when people say one thing but mean something else. From polite refusals to awkward compliments, learn how to hear what’s really being said… without anyone saying it! Don’t just learn Chinese — learn between the ...
Today's Episode: Is our mascot cat Louie turning into a wild animal?! From pasty shops to sunbathing all day, he’s living his best countryside life. But… should we be worried? Let’s find out together! Membership Preview: Ready to chase your dreams? In our next episode of MaoMi Chinese+, hear how teacher Gu Shaoqiang quit her job to explore the world after her viral saying, "The world is so big, I want to see it." Tune in for a story of bold choices and following your heart! Support MaoMi & G...
Today's Episode: Have you ever seen people fly across the country just to visit a supermarket? Pang Dong Lai in Henan has become a viral sensation — find out why this heartwarming store is winning everyone over! Membership Preview: Want to know what “人情味” really means? In this week’s MaoMi Chinese+, we break it down with the heartwarming story of Pang Dong Lai. Tune in for fun Chinese and real-life connections! Support MaoMi & Get exclusive to premium content! https://www.buzzsprout.com/1426...
Today's Episode: In this episode of MaoMi Chinese, we dive into two fun and quirky expressions that are taking Chinese social media by storm. Tune in to learn what they mean and how to use them in everyday conversation! Membership Preview: Ever met someone who’s always giving unsolicited advice? 🤔 In 29th April 's premium episode, we will dive into a Chinese idiom describing people love playing the teacher, even when it’s not needed! Tune in to find out more! Support MaoMi & Get exclusive t...
Today's Episode: The Chinese government wants people to lose weight—seriously! In this episode of MaoMi Chinese, we talk about why more people in China are getting fat, and why the government is stepping in. Membership Preview: Not all questions are rude in China! In our MaoMi Chinese+ on 22nd April, we explore the surprising topics that are totally okay to ask in Chinese culture—and teach you the polite ways to ask (or avoid) them! Support MaoMi & Get exclusive to premium content! https://w...
The Chinese government wants people to lose weight—seriously! In this episode of MaoMi Chinese, we talk about why more people in China are getting fat, and why the government is stepping in. Membership preview: In our next MaoMi Chinese+ episode on 15th April, we dive into interesting Chinese expressions related to gaining weight, living a relaxed life, and the concept of dieting. Discover how these phrases reflect everyday Chinese culture! Don’t miss out! Interested in joining the membership? ⬇...
Why are more people in China falling in love with second-hand living? From vintage fashion to eco-friendly choices, discover why buying used is becoming the smart, stylish way to shop. Let’s talk second-hand life! Membership preview: In our next MaoMi Chinese+ episode on 8th April, we dive into three vivid idioms with “hand”: sneakily taking things, being in a panic, and having too much control. Learn what they mean and how to spot or use them in daily life, with fun and simple examples! Don’t m...
A powerful earthquake shook Myanmar, even reaching Bangkok. In that moment, I truly felt 劫后余生—the relief of surviving a disaster. But this phrase isn’t just about earthquakes or accidents. Join me as we explore its meaning through real-life stories and examples! Membership preview: In our next MaoMi Chinese+ episode on 1st April, we dive into "tofu-quality construction" and its dangers. From collapsing buildings to faulty bridges, find out how poor building standards affect us all! Don’t miss ou...
Why do so many Chinese people love taking photos when they travel or eat? In this episode, we explore "checking in and taking photos" —why it’s so popular, where people go for the perfect shot, and whether it’s about memories or just social media. Tune in now! Membership preview: In our next MaoMi Chinese+ episode on 25th March, we’ll dive into a fun yet risky habit—when people push their luck, ignore warnings, or do things that might end badly. Curious about how to describe this in Chinese? Sta...
Every year, millions of young Chinese leave their hometowns to chase dreams in mega cities like Beijing and Shanghai. No family, no home, just hard work and uncertainty. Why do they do it? And what is life really like as a "漂" (drifter)? Let’s dive into their world! Membership preview: Want to know what makes Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong unique? From fast-paced city life to delicious food and tech hubs, each city has its own charm. Join MaoMi Chinese+ to explore more! Jo...
From security guard to lawyer—Liu Zheng spent 10 years chasing his dream, failing five times before finally passing China’s toughest law exam. What kept him going? Tune in for his inspiring story! Membership preview: Studying for years with no breaks, no fun—just pure dedication. Sounds intense? In China, this mindset has shaped history! Why do people respect those who endure it? Let’s uncover the story behind it! Join us on Tuesday 11th March! Don’t miss out! Interested in joining the membershi...
Have you ever felt that life somewhere else must be better —more exciting, easier, or happier? Many people believe that what they don’t have is always better. But is that really true? Today, let’s explore why we often think this way and what’s behind it! Membership preview: The moon isn’t just in the sky—it’s hidden in Chinese words too! On Tuesday 4th March, we will explore poetic and surprising ways 月 is used in daily life. Want to make your Chinese more natural and expressive? Join us for a d...
Have you ever heard that sleeping with your belly button uncovered might make you sick? In China, parents and grandparents always remind kids to cover their belly button while sleeping —but why? Is it just an old superstition, or is there some truth behind it? In this episode, we’ll explore this adorable and uniquely Chinese habit, the cultural beliefs behind it, and what Traditional Chinese Medicine has to say. Get comfy (and maybe tuck yourself in!), and let’s dive in! Membership preview: From...
