You've always had a secret affinity for borscht, and a secret compulsion to buy nesting dolls at neighborhood garage sales. Enter this lesson, where we transport you to the land that gave us Zhivago, caviar, perogie-making babushkas (bless their souls), and huge fur hat sporting dedushkas. Get ready to warm yourself from the insides out with a vodka-filled journey in Mandarin Chinese to Moscow. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0930

Answering the question "Can you speak Chinese?" in the affirmative is always a proud moment. Perhaps, yes, literally, one moment. Let's call the inevitable next moment, with its subsequent barrage of language, ear assault. But hey, you're already ahead of the game because you have this podcast to learn the art of how to keep the Mandarin flowing, and you have and will perfect the invaluable fake 'i understand' head nod. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0840

Perhaps best known for remarkable food items such as spicy smelly preserved vegetables and some 'alternative' meats, this capital of Korea is known for a lot more than than its eating. Learn in this lesson about the city of Seoul. A place of delicious food, friendly people, and facelifts. This place has it all! Learn about it in this podcast, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0902

Discovering these 800-plus podcast lessons, likely you've been up for days, listening. You're not tired yet, due to the language-learning high that doesn't wear off until after lesson 452. However, a language full of sh's has been known to produce a trance-like sleepy state. The cure: just turn up the volume and let this podcast wake you up. Learn how to talk tired, in Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0836

We've got the Summer Palace; they've got Versailles. We've got Shaolin Temple; they've got Notre Dame. They've got stinky cheese; we've got stinky tofu. They, eau de toilette; us, squat toilettes. We're the Paris of the east; they're... Paris. In this podcast, learn about the city of romance and fall in love with it all over again in your new passion... Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0866

Reports churning out of celebrity Los Angeles have sparked concern over the latest anti-aging fad: drinking of the tears of young Asian girls. We, Chinese-English speakers of the world all have a responsibility to prevent the cruelty of tear harvesting from taking place. Band together and learn in this podcast how to tell someone to stop crying, and force those movie stars to go back to botox. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0829

08-08-2008. The day we've all been waiting for. The factories are closed, the cars are parked away. The buildings are ready, the skies are blue (hopefully). The world has arrived in Beijing and we at ChinesePod are here to cheer everyone on. Jiayou Olympics. Jiayou China. Listen to this podcast and celebrate the opening of the 2008 Summer Olympic Games in Beijing with us. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0961

Little did you know when you started learning Mandarin that you would be placed in the thick of an age-old war of 'where' words. Decide which camp has your allegiance--the roll of your tongue 'nar,' favorite of Beijing cabbies and northern ayis. Or 'nali,' a lighter, double-syllable approach to the oft-asked location query. You're gonna need this podcast and a 'nar/nali' support group to help, so listen in and make your stand on where you stand, in Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0825

The debate over who invented this game is not as heated as the one about who invented the noodle, thankfully. Perhaps the noodle debate could be settled for all time by a nice round of rock, scissors, paper... or was it cloth? Either way, next time you're in a quandary, learn how to settle it in this Mandarin Chinese lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0960

Contrary to popular notions, no, we're not all Americans. The nationality guessing game: favorite exchange of bored cabbies and their captive audience passengers. Expressing nationality in Mandarin Chinese is not hard--unless you are Azerbaijani, Djiboutian, or hail from the Republic of Vanuatu, and even then a bit of research and transliteration gymnastics will do the trick. Listen to this podcast and learn how to reclaim your identity. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0821

We assume you will never be a foreign soldier in a Chinese army, and sincerely hope that world peace is attained and this lesson will soon be obsolete. However, after 955 lessons it was about time that we taught you how to 'charge' in Mandarin. Don't forget that this vocabulary can also be applied in your battle for daily subway survival. Listen in and learn how to be a brave soldier, in Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0956

When faced with the 'Do Chinese people really say ni hao ma or are they just succumbing to Englese' quandary, here is a lesson you can use to circumvent these deep unanswerable how-are-you-dilemmas. An alternative greeting option in Mandarin. In this podcast, learn how to ask after a peep in all new exciting ways. And special bonus--two ambiguous answers in one dialogue. Do the Chinese know how to evade, or what? Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0816

A little name-dropping serves one well in many environments. 'Brad Pitt' is just too long to say in Chinese, so let's start with a more business-oriented angle first. You may recognize your nosy neighbor in the conversation that follows. And, if you really want to impress him, throw in a little of your buddy 'Bill Gates' and you'll be the envy of all the 'hood. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0952

At this juncture, we know some of you bespectacled types are going to show-off your 4,000 character-plus savvy and say you read the Chinese newspaper. This lesson, however, is about options. Some of us lazy types just want to know what's going on in the world, without losing our eyesight over morning coffee. In this podcast, learn how to ask for your preference of the daily news, in Mandarin. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0812

Olive-ball may not be big in China, but in Laowai land it is. English, American and Aussie styles may differ quite a bit, but they all hold the same potential for a lovers' spat on a lazy weekend afternoon. Couch, beer, game... or... wife, mall, shopping. In this podcast, our sports fan finds himself in this volatile situation. Listen in to see how he handles it, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0948

The concept of green eggs is not one so particularly far-fetched in China. Could a 1,000 year old egg be any other color? Sam-I-am has found his place in the sun. In this podcast, green eggs and ham revisited with a Chinese bent--fried rice as their companion. With a mouse, in a house, on the train... yeah, pretty much anywhere. Expand your Mandarin palate with this lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0808

"So, I’m on the first tee with him. I give him the driver. He hauls off and whacks one - big hitter, the Lama... " If Carl the grounds-keeper can make it down to China to play a round of golf, so can you. But you'll need the lingo, and that is where we come in. After this lesson, you'll be equipped to tell one of your three caddies when you want the driver or the iron, in Mandarin. So you've got that goin’ for ya, which is nice. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0941

If we were slangpod.com, this lesson would be called 'whattup.' But for the sake of warding off potential improper English critics, we'll stick to the Queen's English just this once. Enough about English, what about Chinese? How do you greet your peeps? Listen in to this podcast and get the lingo down, bro, in Mandarin. Word. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0804

Today a little musical interlude for your listening pleasure. This ain't no muzac, nor is it out of tune KTV. On the other hand, it isn't Coldplay nor is it S.H.E. This podcast is a ChinesePod gig that's gonna make the Grammy's come a knockin'. Listen here as we toot our own horn and play a little ditty on a few instruments of choice. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0937

Now that 2008 has been declared the "International Year of Languages" by the UN, it's time to buckle down and study Mandarin for world peace. Start with this podcast and learn how to understand your teacher so you don't end up in the detention hall because you confused 'sit down and shut up' with 'stand up and sing a Chinese rendition of 'Everybody was Kung Fu Fighting.' Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0800

No, this isn't the mid-evening call soliciting those 'other' services provided at certain questionable establishments... this is the all important, rip you from the womb of your 400 count Egyptian cotton fluffy feather pillowed bliss morning call. Now, you're gonna want to make sure your Chinese '4' pronunciation is tiptop before attempting this feat, should you have an early morning flight. Listen to this podcast and be sure to be the niao that catches the worm. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0926

The humble soup. Brought to life by a symphony of slurps... worthy enough to elevate eating to an oral concerto. In this podcast, get 'drinking' with a Chinese lesson to teach you to embrace, celebrate, and justify mouth noise. Take it from us and start gulping--table manners are sooooo passé. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0796

The Mr. Noodles rage that swept elementary schools in the 80s (crunchy raw with seasoning packet sprinkled on top) doesn't hold a candle to Chinese people's love affair with this quick lunch. Nutritional value: no. Great taste: debatable. Cheap and easy: of course. The recipe for any well-loved Chinese meal. Get your soup on in this podcast, and get yourself some instant noodles, in Mandarin. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0920

No, we are not talking about the Ron Burgundy type of class, we are talking about the kind you go to...or at least supposed to go to. So don't skip class, and definitely don't skip this podcast. You will slowly become as wise as a miniature Buddha with yet another Chinese lesson under your belt. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0793

If you think the people all look alike, wait until you see the luggage coming out of the conveyor belt. Apparently 394 of the 395 other passengers bought their black $15 'Samsonite' luggage from the same Pearl Market back alley. Mistaken luggage identity crisis.... what to do? Find it or not, fear not... there's more luggage where that came from... and underwear shops... and Chinese lesson podcasts to get you there. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0915

Oft over looked due to its timid tone and quiet presence, this Mandarin Chinese tone is anything but passive. In this podcast, we visit the sometimes forgotten and difficult to define tone that makes love, not war... impartially takes no sides and conscientiously objects to raising its voice. Its only flaw is perhaps a slight tendency toward wimpiness, but hey it'll never get in your face... the neutral tone. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0788

You've been stuck on city streets too long. Lace up your shoes, point in the direction of trees, and trade in red China for green with this podcast on hiking. Whether it's the trails of Yangming Shan, the pseudo-hills of She Shan, or the dizzying cliffs of Huang Shan, explore the woods that inspired the Chinese painters and poets of old, and see the China behind the bustle Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0907

Here we arrive at the last stage in the rise and fall of the four tones of Mandarin Chinese, and poor fourth is a bit of an enigma. Due to his angry tone of voice and overbearing sharpness, some find it hard to get to know him. In this podcast, we peel back the layers and help fourth tone make peace with his inner child. He's not mad, just misunderstood. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0784

The apparatus may be the same. The venue, similar--give or take a few trees. The wafts of the mouth-watering scent of roasting flesh. You begin to reminisce over the long days of summers past-- replete with hot dogs, steak, jacket potatoes... but WAIT. What do you see... whaaat the... Yes, the medium is the same, but the materials are very, very different. Listen to this podcast and learn about Chinese barbecue. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0898

The third tone is basically the middle child of the Mandarin line-up. It gets abused like a red-headed step child. Sometimes it's third, sometimes it gets ridden roughshod by second tone, and sometimes it straps a fourth tone on for good times. Third tone suffers from low self-esteem and is still trying to find its true self. Listen to this podcast and give the third tone the love it missed out on as a child. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0780

Yeaaaah, you've been known to chang a little ge when no one is around. So, stop the bashful act... have a few beers if that helps... and get your KTV on. Select a forgotten 80s tune (Purple Rain is a rousing melody), turn on the reverb. Wrestle the microphone from your partner in song, and see a side of the Chinese you never knew existed. Listen to this podcast and learn how to join in, in Mandarin. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0892

Of all the tones, the second tone is the most exciting. It's a rising tone. Don't get too charged up though, we don't want to turn it in to a fourth tone just yet, we want to make this last. Listen to this podcast and learn all about the second tone of Mandarin Chinese as it ascends to its rousing climax. Just try not to wake the neighbors. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0775

Watch, bag, DVD... Watch, bag, DVD... Watch, bag, DVD... Watch, bag, DVD... Watch, bag, DVD... Watch, bag, DVD... Watch, bag, DVD... need we say more? No. Need they say more? Please no. But how to get them to stooooop?? Listen to this podcast, and learn how to refuse, in Mandarin. Then again, maybe just a little peek wouldn't hurt... Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0885

The alpha, the genesis, dongxi numero uno. All the other tones wish they were this high, but without the other tones, we wouldn't know how supreme the first tone actually is. That's the existential truth of tonal relativity. The first tone in history to get its very own podcast, and the only tone that's phonetically represented by its Chinese character--learn about it in this lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0769

Your last Chinese dining experience has left you with a little post-traumatic stress, yes, but let us assure you that that toothsome slimy black ball you just sucked up your straw was NOT a fish eye. Or fish egg for that matter. Was it a drink, a food, or an unidentifiable glutinous object? You be the judge. Learn what it is and how to get some gluey goodness in Mandarin in this podcast. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0882

Sometimes bathroom stalls in China don't have doors on them. Though this may seem shocking to some, it's quite convenient when faced with the dilemma of whether to push the door open to potential stall going-ons, or not. But for those more uncertain times, when you are blocked by those troublesome stall doors, here is a Mandarin Chinese lesson that will help you to rouse any occupants before you waltz in to do your business. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0765

No, ChinesePod has not sold out. We have not succumbed to target marketing, multinational corporate conspiracies, nor do we endorse one cola over another (though in the blind taste test challenge, admittedly, had a favorite). This lesson is simply for those of us who want a Diet Coke. Here's how to get one, in Mandarin. Of course, as a personal favor... you could machine-gun click the play button a few times. You know... royalties... Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0870

Your doctor tells you to quit, the surgeon general's cancer warning on the pack kinda freaks you out, but the artist in you can't get those wispy smoke-filled 'In the Mood for Love' scenes out of your mind. You didn't come to the only place on the planet where smoking in pubs hasn't been banned yet for no reason. This is your last hurrah. In this podcast, learn how to bum a cigarette from a stranger in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0760

Oops sorry i bumped into you, oops excuse me my umbrella hit your eye, oops I opened the car door into you, oops, oh no, I wiped my baozi juice on your sleeve. In a place like this, accidents will happen. When 'sorry' is getting old and 'buhaoyisi' feels a bit long-winded, learn how to plead innocence in Mandarin Chinese in this podcast. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0862

It's only been rumored to have ever happened in this city once, and that was from a Canadian tourist who was visiting from the Niagara falls region, and to this day we haven't found any witnesses to confirm this ever took place. In this podcast, a model lesson in Mandarin Chinese from a model world where chivalry is not dead. And if it's not dead... someway, somehow, somewhere, it could happen to you too... Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0756

Don't worry if that old hamstring injury dashed your Olympic dreams of bringing glory to your nation... do what Da Shan did... put on a blue silk Chinese suit and make your Mandarin so annoyingly good that you make your otherwise unassuming country famous. No steroids required. Go for gold, of the Mandarin variety, in this Olympic lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0854

The unending feud between those annoying morning people and their alter-egos, the 'night cats' comes to a Chinese lesson today. Listen in as pre-noon takes on post-noon, chipper good mornings take on groggy good afternoons. Listen and learn in Mandarin how to do battle for control of the alarm clock setting.

All good stories have to come to an end, including the saga of our friend Yang Jie. She kinda got sick of writing, as diary-keepers usually do. Plus, we were starting to feel like creeps, slinking into her room every night to sneak a peek. In this podcast, find out how things turn out for Yang Jie and co-stars. How do you say in Chinese: "She's not that into you..." Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0847

Open the lights and turn off the door, er, I mean, turn on the lights and close the door... why is this so confusing? Just get in here and pretend you love me. Close the lights if you have to. In this podcast, a Mandarin Chinese lesson on how to turn on/off the lights. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0744

Today is Tomb Sweeping Day. The special day of paying respect to ancestors, lighting incense, making burnt offerings, and, like any self-respecting Chinese holiday... lighting off firecrackers. The holiday also favored by those with money to burn. So open up your wallet, light up your money, and listen to this podcast to learn more in Mandarin about the traditions of tomb sweeping. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0842

Oh, look at him. He's a cross between Tony Leung and a young Ken Carroll. No, more like Chow Yun Fat meets John Pasden. Those are the handsome boys in this neck of the woods... how about yours? Listen to this podcast and learn how to talk about them, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0737

Being a new language student, everyday can feel like Fool's Day, so think of today as a day to celebrate fools. Take your turn laughing at someone else. Pull the worst fool-causing prank you can, and spend the next year reliving it during those moments of Mandarin learning mortification. In this podcast, we help, with the ole not-so-original but oh-so-easy-to-pull-off Chinese 'hot-sauce-in-your-food' prank. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0838

Though they scare us, rip us off at times, and don’t wash the white seat covers nearly enough, there’s nothing like the vindication of winning the taxi battle and claiming your prize of a ride home. This lesson reminds us of all the times we almost wanted to kiss the taxi driver that finally stopped for us on a rainy day. Listen and learn how to snag your taxi, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0732

Everyone knows there are a lot of fakes in China. Fake prada, fake watches, fake art students... yes, those too. So stay away from those sweet looking Nanjing Lu predators, and stick to the real art museums of China. Where treasures of jade bok choy and 50,000 renditions of West Lake lie awaiting your discovery. Educate yourself, art-wise and Mandarin-wise, in this lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0833

No, it's not a lesson on CB radio lingo, good buddy. Rather, it's those pesky Chinese tones again. In this podcast, a Mandarin lesson to dissect the difference in sound between the perfect 10 and oft-maligned 4. Listen in, and you'll be blowing them away with the 'forty lions' tongue twister at the next game show that comes your way. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0728

Babe Ruth barnstormed in Shanghai, and MLB says baseball was the "unofficial sport" of the People's Liberation Army in the 1940's. But 60 years later, only five Mandarin swinging ball players have made it to the big leagues, all coming from the talent pools of Taiwan. Opening day is 'round the corner, so listen to this podcast and take a swing at this lesson on "fat-big-chunky-piece-of-stick ball". Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0830

Some people are addicted to coke, others to crystal meth, but for the Chinese, the white powder of choice is none other than MSG. True, the MSG high leads to jacked up tasting pleasure, but if you want to avoid the crash, you might want to ‘just say no.’ Listen to this podcast to learn how--do your part in the War on MSG. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0724

Whether you've headed to this lesson because you're feeling a little lethargic in your study efforts, or because the idea of a cheerleader egging you on brings you some sort of post-jock high school flashback comfort, you're sure to gain a little spring in your step. Listen to this podcast when you're feeling down--Jenny will wave her pompoms and teach you to study Mandarin and not give up. Jiayou everybody! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0827

Just when you learned the Chinese word for 'key', technology had to come in and mess it all up for you. In this podcast, check-in to your hotel with us, in Mandarin, and feel the sense of accomplishment of finding your room, all in Chinese! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0721

In Dublin's fair city, where the girls are so pretty, I first set my eyes on sweet....Ken Carroll!?? Whilst Ken may not be as hot as Molly Malone, he certainly knows his way about Dublin. Listen to the Sino-Irish man himself as he takes you on a Mandarin Chinese tour through the streets of the capital of Ireland with all its pubs, pints, and...eh... leprechauns. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0823

The visions you're having of glistening bacon and bottomless coffee might very soon be dashed. A lumpy curdled bowl of soy product and noodles a la oil don't appeal at 7:00 am? Wait till you taste... you just might come over to the Chinese side of breaky. This ain't no mini-wheats. 5,000 years in the development, learn in this podcast how to eat breakfast, China-style. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0717

The 'Warring Bills' period of Chinese history is officially over for all ChinesePod users. An international treating treaty has been declared, and it involves a handy little phrase that will be an instrument in achieving restaurant check peace. Listen to this podcast to learn what it is, and make your contribution to world Chinese dinner table harmony. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0819

Granted, the 'you're tall' compliments have gotten fewer and farther between since Yao Ming had to come on the scene and wreck it for all of us. However, you can still milk some around here... just get some high heeled boots. Listen to this podcast, which will teach you not only to tell someone your height, in Mandarin Chinese, but also teach all you imperialists to think metric. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0713

We are not talking about the starting time of your own athletic competition... the last of which was probably field day at your junior high school where you took home the purple "honorable mention" ribbons in every event you entered. We are talking about the best athletes in the world, and they are going to be here in China before you know it. So sit back in your lazy boy, grab some Cheetos and a cold one, and listen to this here podcast. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0814

Mouths were intended to be used for so much more than speaking Chinese. Sometimes the language of love communicates better than the best vocabulary, so it never hurts to get a little lip service... In this podcast, get smoochy-smoochy with us and learn to ask for a kiss, in Mandarin. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0709

You've camped out for U2 tickets, queued for boxing day sales... but the bank? Waiting outside the bank before it opens is a national pastime and community social event in China. So take your number (ah, so this is why they line up at the screech of dawn), take a seat and hunker down for your lesson in patience. While you wait, listen to this podcast on bank hours in Chinese and secure your teller time. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0801

The kind host refilling your tea for the twenty-fourth time is indeed generous, but for those of us with TB (tiny bladder), we just might need to learn to tell them when to quit. Listen to this podcast, and learn to graciously decline another cup in Mandarin Chinese. Either that, or just sip slower. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0704

Long before Catherine the Great made equestrian famous, people used to jump things on horseback. But not in China. Considering their stature and overuse of the word ma, if any nation should dominate a sport, it's the Chinese in equestrian. Sadly this isn't the case, due to an ancient declaration of karaoke as the national sport. In this podcast, learn about this Olympic sport, in Mandarin. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0798

Quite possibly the most useful phrase around, 'forget it' has been well-used by many a sulky teenager, dejected lover, pms-ing girlfriend and/or frustrated communicator. Listen in to this podcast, and learn how to get the most out of this multi-faceted conversation concluder, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0700

Even though your waiguoren butt is not going to fit in these seats, you'll at least be able to find the right one. Avoid becoming the event sideshow whilst dislodging said bum from said seat in front of an audience of 50,000. Study this lesson and you'll know how to find your correct seat in Mandarin. Listen to the podcast while running on the treadmill and kill two birds with one stone. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0786

Of course, being a single man-about-town in a city chock-full of laowai-hungry gals this phrase will not come in handy at all. But, on the off-chance you find yourself being pursued, listen to this podcast and learn the language of getting hit-on, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0696

Coined phrase of sulky teenagers and pet phrase of indecisive girlfriends. When you know what you don't want but not what you do want, turn to this lesson to learn how to non-commit, in Mandarin Chinese. In this podcast, a motley assortment of ambiguous phrases for the indecisive amongst us. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0782

Now, due to being asked so many personal questions by nosy neighbors, we know you all were waiting for the lesson on 'none of your business.' However, in addition to gossip, doing business in China is another great topic of conversation. Listen in to this podcast and learn to turn the conversation around from your own business to real business, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0690

Glendale, Arizona. The home of Super Bowl XLII. No, that's not a world record sized wok, it's football, American style. The New England Patriots are trying to break every record by winning the Super Bowl to cap an undefeated season over the New York Giants... Writer may sound like a fan but only watches for the commercials. Worlds collide in this podcast as you learn about it all, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0777

Someone's fallen and they can't get up. You want to help, but likely due to the stress of the whole ordeal, you've forgotten every Chinese word you know. By this time you are wishing for a Life Alert alarm with a direct line to ChinesePod's Mandarin Emergency response team. The 24 hour helpline is in the works... in the meantime what you need this podcast where you can learn how to show your fellow feeling, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0687

If the potholes, rogue taxis and silent electric bikes passing on the right don't get ya, cold will! Sure, snow pants and moon boots seem cumbersome, but when that Tibetan front blows in, you won't mind the rubberneckers staring at you as you pass. They can just go stick their tongues on a frozen pole somewhere for all you care. In this podcast, learn how to bundle up, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0771

With Halloween making its marketing inroads to modern China, the ghosts are sure to follow. Turn out the lights, shine a flashlight on your face and get spooky, with some ghost stories in Mandarin. Listen to this podcast and learn some shivers-up-the-spine Chinese words to help you. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0685

Though diving out of the way of oncoming vehicles has not yet been included in the Olympic roster, that could change any day now. Hey, don't laugh... if the 'Women's Hammer Throw' can make it in, this is more than feasible. Listen to this lesson on the hardcore street diving's more elegant cousin, Olympic diving, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0767

While Linus is keeping his Great Pumpkin vigil in the pumpkin patch, his counterparts in China are doing their own chowing down on the culinary delights that pumpkin season brings. Listen in to this podcast, and learn in Mandarin what the Chinese do with their leftover jack-o-lanterns as the fall air crisps and comfort food beckons. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0681

It may seem quaint or funny, maybe even a little melodramatic, but when you need it and find yourself flailing in the green, oolong, bubble tea sea... your coffee compulsion is no joke. When desperation begins to lead you down the path to instant Folgers, a $10 cup of coffee may just be what stands between you and the point of no return. Listen to this podcast, and learn to pay the price of dependency, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0763

With the chorus of cell phones belting out staticky Chinese pop songs and Crazy Frog remixes, identifying your ring tone can be a challenge, at best. In this podcast, learn how to identify whose phone is ringing, in Mandarin, and save your already half-deaf ears from the mad cacophony. Or, better yet, put on the vibrator alert. It makes for a nice back pocket massage. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0672

You may feel that it is your God-given right to not have the eyes of your shrimp staring back at you from the plate. Or that bones in your fish are nothing but a potential throat-lodging disaster. But keep in mind, there are others in distant lands who feel that chewing a bagel with cream cheese has a texture like snot smeared onto a worn out shoe sole. So don't be picky... and listen to this Chinese lesson to hear how fussy sounds in Mandarin. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0758

It is said that the ability to speak and write is what separates us from the monkeys. Now, if you want to be the Monkey King, then try your hand at learning to speak and write Mandarin. In this podcast, a good start, where you will learn to talk about speaking and writing Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0667

When you come to Beijing in August for the Olympics, you'll meet a sea of umbrellas and wonder if you watched the wrong weather report. If the Chinese know one thing, it's how to stay out of the heat. Listen to this podcast for a Mandarin lesson on how to keep your cool... even when you get a spoke in the eye due to haphazard umbrella management. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0754

With a new ChinesePod podcast coming out every day, all Cpoddies everywhere always have something to do tomorrow. So, listen to this lesson on how to tell someone you've got stuff goin' on. (Also comes in handy as an excuse for deflecting unwanted Karaoke invitations.) Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0663

There was once a fair maiden who lived five stories up, no water to drink, not even a cup. How DOES a princess hire a 60 year old man to carry a five gallon jug of water up the stairs? Using this podcast! And you too can quench your thirst for Mandarin with a Chinese lesson about how to get water delivered. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0750

The title of this lesson may bring back painful childhood memories of that field trip to the museum; the one where you got lost somewhere between the Egyptian pharaohs and the Chinese cabbage carved from jade. Maybe it was that self same ethereal cabbage that inspired you to learn Mandarin. So here you are. And here is our podcast on 'Finding the Teacher.' Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0661

Let's face it, it's December, we'd all rather be there than here... those more fortunate are, those of us less fortunate are sitting here listening to this lesson. Jealousy gets you nowhere, of course, except resenting your cold unheated China apartment. So, put a conch shell up to your ear, and listen to this podcast instead. You'll be dreaming of Mandarin hula girls and Chinese tan lines in no time. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0745

Finally, a place where to be fat is to be glorious. So, next time your friend tells you've gotten fat since coming to China, don't start looking for some fad no-rice carbo diet. Bask in all your paunchy grandeur. You've come to the right place! Listen to this podcast, to learn how to talk fat with the rest of them, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0657

This ain't no slummy fuzzy pink dice dangling from some cracked rearview mirror, peeps. We're talking dice of the hardcore, extreme-sport-gaming-variety. Learn these dice or lose your shirt. We're gonna teach you--yes, not only Mandarin but also drinking games. Listen to this podcast, and may your fuzzy dice forever hang on that Impala dashboard with pride. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0742

You've spent the last year glued to your headphones in a "The Fix" induced trance-like chant. One day you wake up and your significant other is packing his/her bags, accusing you of joining an online Mandarin-learning cult. ChinesePod is no homewrecker, thus we provide this podcast in which you can learn to beg someone not to leave. True, saying it in Chinese might not be the best conflict-resolving approach, but at least you're communicating, right? Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0652

Pop quiz. We know you are all Jenny Zhu's biggest fans. But while you're all a-sighing over her, what makes little Jenny Zhu's heart go pitter-patter? Guesses? In the meantime, listen to this lesson on Olympic tennis and get a hint into the inner longings of the heart of Teacher Jenny, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0735

So, you're thinking a lesson on eating tofu sounds about as bland as that spongy white square of mush on your plate? That's what you thought... Truth is, there is nothing more racy than an affinity for 'eating tofu.' Confused? Don't let someone else have the last laugh. Listen to this podcast and find out the 'spicy' side of tofu, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0648

This friendly reminder lesson goes out to all you boyfriends, husbands, secret admirers, penpals, joe blows and stalkers in the land... buy some flowers for your lady on the way home tonight. In this podcast, you'll get the language you need to do it right, in Mandarin Chinese. And don't forget to revisit the 'Give me a kiss' lesson, to really milk it for what it's worth. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0730

Listening to ChinesePod podcasts every day, one gets to know many profound things from teachers Ken and Jenny. But of course, to quote the infamous Miss Zhu, there are many layers in meat, many layers to learning Mandarin, and... to add another... many layers of 'knowing' things. Learn in this lesson about two of the types of 'knowing', in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0644

Put down the bowl of... what IS that... there's no world record for eating the most chicken feet, and you fell asleep three hours after setting out to break the world's record of staying awake the longest. Plus it's seriously time to throw away that storage unit full of Pocky stick wrappers. In this podcast, learn about REAL world records in Mandarin Chinese... the Olympic kind. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0726

So you download the BitTorrent file of 500 ChinesePod podcasts and hole yourself up for days on end learning Mandarin and laughing along with Ken and Jenny. You finally tear yourself away, glassy-eyed and ears ringing. As you come out squinting to the light of day, you realize you have been in a ChinesePod induced time-warp. What day is it? Listen to this podcast and find out. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0640

Though XYZ doesn't translate well into Chinese (that being said, the letters X, Y and Z do have great pinyin potential), you may find yourself in the unenviable position of informing someone that they're 'flying low.' In this podcast, learn to tell someone to 'do it up' in Mandarin. And while we're at it, we'll throw in a little tying of the shoelaces and buttoning of the coat just to make sure you're all put together properly. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0715

The one-child policy might make a conversation about family members in Mandarin Chinese seem like a breeze. Be forewarned: to a nation of only children, birth order is a very interesting topic. Be forearmed: come to China with a cheesy family photo, and listen to this podcast. You'll learn all the vocabulary you'll need to introduce ma, pa, sis and bro. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0634

Sailing? In Beijing, you say? Boats gliding through the moat of the Forbidden City? Or a fake ocean to go with the fake ski hill? No... even better. You're going to get to head to the beauty of Qingdao. Visit it in this podcast, where you will learn about this Olympic event, in Mandarin. Our bet, however, is that the Chinese junk boat will blow those pansy sailboats out of the water. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0711

Coffee is a harsh mistress. One perhaps best relinquished before you arrive in tea land. But for those who can't face the notion of life without her, here is a Mandarin Chinese lesson modeled on a fantasy utopia-China, where not only could you have your coffee, but your sugar and cream too. Listen in, and you never know, you may just get your cuppa to your liking. If not... there is a Chinese medicine perfect for treating that withdrawal headache. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0631

Hearing talk of turkey and mashed potatoes is like cruel and unusual punishment to oven-deprived China-ites. Rather than drooling, get into the spirit of Thanksgiving and be grateful: for cheap massages, the ayi you have that you could never afford at home, those BBQ meat skewers on the street, and DVDs for 75 cents. Then, listen to this podcast and learn how to be thankful, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0707

Don't be fooled by the bottles of Russian vodka collecting dust by our water cooler, or the small bottle of baijiu on Amber's desk: the drug of choice here at ChinesePod is caffeine. And while it may be socially-acceptable to quaff a few cups of either while working, one too many will shoot your judgment and send coworkers fleeing in terror. Listen to this podcast and learn how to use Mandarin Chinese to fend off booze-bedraggled assailants. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0629

Screeching scooter brakes, cacophonous construction and prolonged iPod use to block it all out is a China dweller’s recipe for auditory undoing. Before you end up bidding an early retreat to the world of grandpa hearing aids, listen (while you still can) to this podcast and learn about being hard of hearing, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0702

No, this is not another in our 'taking the classroom to the bathroom' series of Mandarin lessons. Rather, this lesson is about having to get going. So, next time you're waiting as your significant other is performing their getting ready ritual, you will have the words to get him/her rolling. Listen to this podcast and learn to nag a little, a la Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0624

In China, potential injuries are lurking around every corner. Prepare yourself... when your foot is stomped on for the twenty-fourth time in one bus commute, you will be crying out for a tensor bandage with the best of them. Not to mention the repetitive strain injury from dinging your bicycle bell at those rogue taxi drivers. Listen to this podcast, and learn about getting hurt, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0693

For those of us all sweaty in our China summer, this lesson has a special significance. We want to know how to voice our complaints to the weather gods that be. In this podcast, learn to bellyache over the heat, in Mandarin Chinese. Now, if only we could learn how to do a rain dance... Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0620

Clowns freak people out. They have weird hair, and what's with the big shoes? 10 million crying children can't be wrong. Who came up with clowns, anyway? And who came up with a Chinese lesson on clowns? Some sicko, likely... but the next time one comes up to you, at least you'll have the language to tell it to go away. Listen to this podcast and join the anti-clown campaign, Mandarin-style. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0683

Never thought we'd one day be just another illiteracy statistic, but, alas, learning Mandarin can be a humbling undertaking. If you just wrote down your name and the squinting clerk is turning the paper upsidedown, sideways and backward, this podcast is for you. Do not be daunted! Listen and learn how to get someone to write a Chinese character for you. And do not despair--literacy initiatives have worked in developing countries. There's hope for us yet. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0616

Men everywhere know about the fury of the woman scorned, but that holds nothing in comparison to that of a hormone-raging, pubescent, Sweet Valley High novel-reading youth. In this podcast we revisit our Chinese friend Yang Jie, and this time, she's furious. Follow along as the diary leaves the page and turns into a reality-show-gone-bad lesson in Mandarin. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0806

Since 'politically correct' is getting kind of old, ChinesePod today teeters on the edge of controversy with a purely shallow Mandarin Chinese lesson on looks. In this podcast, learn all about making disparaging comments about a person's appearance. Of course, we at ChinesePod do not advocate judging a person by their physical attributes... but jerks learn Chinese too, so we hereby discharge our duty to the meanies of the Chinese-learning world. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0612

In this excerpt from Yang Jie aka the Princess' Diary, we get to see how a library date pans out for the under-appreciated Wang Wei. Will he make a move while pretending to be reaching for a book on a shelf? Will he impress with his knowledge of the Dewey Decimal System? Let's see if it works, as you listen to this podcast with some Mandarin Chinese love in the library. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0718

Let's face it. With the rising temperatures of summer, some of those around you may not realize that they are a little bit stinky. Today we are going to give a lesson on how to give a subtle (or not-so-subtle) hint in Chinese regarding that certain funk wafting in your direction. Learn in Mandarin how to tell someone to take a shower. You can thank us later. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0606

You know the old adage: if they don't find you handsome, they better find you brainy. It's revenge of the nerds in this episode of Diaries of our Lives. We hear from Wang Wei as he breaks out into Mr. Popularity with exam time looming. Listen to this podcast, and hope that some of his brains rub off on you, too, as you attempt this Mandarin lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0698

How to win over Chinese friends and wrangle more dinner invites? It's all about the compliments, people. Learning how to wax poetic about food bodes well for your future popularity with your new-found partners in calories. In this podcast, learn to rhapsodize in Mandarin over the cookery, and secure your future place at the dinner table. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0603

The romance seems to be escalating. Things are getting juicy. They've gone from studying to eating to... utterly scandalous... watching movies together. Where will our two lovers go from here... listen to this podcast and read along with us as Li Yan continues to bare her deep thoughts, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0689

You're in the place aptly dubbed "Book City," and the masses of Chinese characters overwhelm you like the masses of humanity you just jostled through to find the information counter. Not an ABC in sight. So, how to get the elusive English book you seek (or at least a procurable substitute)? Listen to this podcast, and learn how to ask for English books, using Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0601

It's about time the nerds of the world got some respect. Bookworm Wang Wei seems to be trying to win the heart of fair Yang Jie. What does Yang Jie really think of this scholarly specimen? Is the way to her heart through the library? Let's snoop, in this podcast, where we look into a girl's not-so-deep thoughts, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0670

At the risk of subjecting our poor receptionist to an onslaught of telephone calls from Jenny fans trying out this newly-acquired language tomorrow morning, we publish this lesson on requesting a phone number. In this podcast, learn to improve your Mandarin skills by practicing how to request information. Learn how to improve your mental math skills by actually trying to memorize the 50 digit long number that gets spat back at ya! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0597

In today's diary entry, we get the male perspective on life in the world of Li Yan, Yang Jie and Wang Wei. Why does Wang Wei stare at Yang Jie every day? Is there blossoming romance? Will this be the start of an titillating love triangle? Listen in to this podcast as we tell all, invade privacy, and learn Mandarin Chinese in the process. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0659

In a place where anything with its back to the sun qualifies as dinner, you’ll need to be “alternative” meat savvy. This lesson will save you from unwittingly eating animals you consider cute. Listen to this podcast and learn in Mandarin Chinese how to avoid mistaken meat identity. Though, don't be too apprehensive--there is something life-changing about accidentally finding out that you like cat. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0592

Some may deem it 'nosy,' but we prefer the term 'inquisitive.' This week, we find another diary under the mattress, and this time it's young Yang Jie's rival in love... Li Yan. Read along with us as she pours out her soon to be not-so-private thoughts to her diary, and to millions of Mandarin Chinese learners everywhere. (Don't tell her we showed you.) Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0650

Though we all wish we sounded like Jenny when we repeat after her, the old adage is true, that practice makes (well, almost) perfect. So don't give up! Put Jenny on in your headphones day in and day out, and you'll be guaranteed to be sounding more sweet and adorable within the week. Of course, if you are a man, this may or may not be a good thing... Either way, in this lesson, learn how to repeat after the teacher, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0588

Here is a Mandarin Chinese lesson to take you back to the simpler days of ugly boys, teenage angst and unrequited crushes. Yes, come with us as we sneak a peek at young Yang Jie's Diary (you know you want to). If the content doesn't sound juicy yet, listen as things unfold... if a Canadian businessman can get knocked off by ninjas, anything could be around the corner for naive Yang Jie. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0642

There are dogs to love (big, drooly, friendly pups) and dogs to love (loyal, best friend mutts)... hey--who doesn't love pooches? (No offense to the cat lesson.) Now, we know you've probably got a wallet full of photos to pull out and show off, but first, learn from this podcast how to throw a few dog commands and compliments around, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0584

New York City? What the heck does learning Chinese have to do with New York City? Don't be naive. In the gritty underworld of the fake Prada black market, you're going to need to hone your Mandarin skills to survive. Listen to this podcast and learn why New York City is a great place for Chinese learners too. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0679

In a place where an empty seat on public transportation is about as uncommon as toilet paper in the bathroom, it's understandable why there is a certain "scrimmage" of sorts when the bus doors fling open to the weary throngs. In this podcast, a pleasant turn of events. Listen and learn how to be the kind soul that offers up his seat, in Mandarin Chinese. And remember, what goes around comes around--you never know... just when you're desperately in need of some TP... it just might come around your way. Or one can hope. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0580

If you feel like you've been doing back flips trying to learn Chinese, this lesson is for you! This next in our series of Olympics lessons is about gymnastics. In this podcast, you'll learn how to describe the elegant movements of the art of gymnastics in Mandarin. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0674

There are cats to love (white, fluffy kittens) and cats to hate (those gold ones waving their strange little arm at the till in the Chinese restaurant). However, love them or hate them, you probably wouldn't mind a little one to keep you company (they make patient language partners). If so, you're going to have to learn how to use your Mandarin to bond with the rice-eating cats of China. Listen to this podcast, and learn how! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0576

Your wonder-twin powers won't activate and the kryptonite is sapping the Mandarin from your very brain. The frustration is making you feel like kicking some bad-guy booty? Or perhaps you feel like withdrawing to your lair... wrapped up in your cape, crying for mommy. You need the man of steel. Listen to this podcast and let Chinese Superman save the day. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0655

Don't think of moving house as a pain. Think of it as an excuse for throwing a house-warming bash. Invite us! We'll bring a nice plant. In this podcast, learn how to tell someone that you are moving, using Mandarin Chinese. And, who knows... the more people you try out these phrases on, the more chance you have that someone might actually get the hint and offer to pitch in (bribing with beer and pizza helps for this aspect, of course). Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0572

Some cyclists train for years before hitting the track in the Olympics. Other cyclists buy a $30 bicycle and are thrown onto the gritty pavement of a Chinese city to learn from their hard knocks. One such lesson learned being: never pass on the right for risk of being spat on by an old man (sorry, post-traumatic flashback). Listen to this podcast and learn all about the more refined side of cycling, in Mandarin. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0646

With the onset of summer vacation, mothers everywhere are familiar with the refrain: "I'm bored!" Now, if you decide to join the kids in a two-month long loafing, better get your whining down pat. In this podcast, learn how to complain about being bored, in Mandarin Chinese. Alternatively... research shows that the cure to boredom is dusting off that enthralling 3,000 Chinese characters book you bought on an ambitious shopping trip months ago. So, there's always options. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0569

After months of painstakingly writing Chinese characters, we recommend you take a moment to vent your frustrations by grabbing a felt marker and angrily drawing squares, circles, and triangles all over that Chinese textbook. It's strangely liberating, actually. Then, listen to this podcast so you can explain in Mandarin to your teacher what exactly you were doing when she rebukes you for defacing school property. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0637

Now, we know that when names consist mainly of a medley of Xs, Qs and Zs, it can be easy to lose it under pressure. So, when that friend that you just ran into is looking into your eyes with an anticipative look, you might just, understandably, come up short. This situation affords two choices: calling them Li Xiansheng (you just could be right!), or listening in to this podcast, so you can learn how to 'fess up that you've forgotten someone's name, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0560

It would be remiss to have a Mandarin lesson on training for the Olympic Games without a Chinese learning analogy to go with. So... Ken is your coach. Jenny, your cheerleader. The daily podcast is your pep talk. The expansion sentences are your cross-training and the exercises are, well, your exercises. Please don't eat too much while listening and whatever happens, don't injure yourself. And, if you get burned out, think of Jenny with her pompoms, and all will be right in the world once again. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0633

You've just stepped out from the office when a frenzied pack of language students senses your presence and rushes over with English greetings. We've all been there and know this is one of those things about China that can be both sweet as well as incredibly frustrating. How you deal with it is your call. But since pretending you're from Xinjiang isn't always an option, it's useful to have a few tricks up your sleeve for steering conversations back to Mandarin. This podcast covers the easiest way: asking them to speak Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0556

Writing classy lessons about bodily functions may be considered a difficult task by some. One lesson better left to the naughty neighborhood kids, perhaps. But, we at ChinesePod know that there are certain times where acting out what you are trying to get across in polite company is just a big no-no. We are up to the task. A prequel to the clogged toilet lesson--this podcast, where we take the classroom to the bathroom. Learn about 'number two,' in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0622

You know it's summertime when those trucks roll into the city, feeding streetside stalls thronging with business as the evening ambles home. Ask anyone who lives here: watermelon is a small joy of life in China. But no one will force it on you. And to get it, you've got to know how to ask for it in Mandarin Chinese. Which is where this podcast comes in. Enjoy! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0550

How a sport which involves sweaty sun-kissed bodies prancing around on sandy beaches became an official Olympic sport, who can say. But the gods of Athens would likely approve. In this podcast, catch some exciting Olympic volleyball action in Mandarin Chinese. And keep your eye on Team China for 2008! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0618

The kids are eating it. The old people are eating it. The babies are smooshing it into their faces and hair. The lady that sells stinky tofu sells it. The meat market man even sells it. We can't make it through the hot summer without it. Summer in China is an ice cream eating bonanza. In this podcast, learn how to get yours, using Mandarin Chinese. P.S. for those of a more reckless palate, green bean flavor comes highly recommended. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0547

Fortunately, ChinesePod won't be sending report cards home to your moms (though we of course would give you all A's!) However, for the millions of Chinese kids in the world, getting good grades can make or break things on the homefront. Listen to this podcast and learn in Mandarin about one poor student's academic angst. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0614

You're dancing around gesticulating. They're dancing around gesticulating. Children are clapping and someone might even be singing, shaking an abacus in time to the music. Except that you're not teaching them a "foreign friend" dance, you're trying to get the correct change so you'll have the bus fare home. This podcast in Mandarin Chinese will help you stave off that three hour walk home, although you'll have to learn the art of the abacus on your own. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0521

A shake of the hand received with an approving grip. A bow of the head prompts a slightly confused bow in return. A bear hug... a stone stiff body. Two kisses on each cheek... well, you might want to think twice about that one. Unsure what to do? ChinesePod greeting methodology 101 to the rescue. Listen to this podcast and learn about first meetings in China, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0609

Remember the days of field trips? Now, field trips in podcast-land aren't to the zoo; nor are they to the waterslides park (though that can be arranged!) Instead, we want you to do something educational and character-building... like going to the museum! Since we can't physically take you to the museum for a field trip (was that a sigh of relief?), jump into this podcast and come along on a virtual trip to a Mandarin Chinese lesson on going to the museum. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0543

You've heard about the agony of defeat. None of that here. In this podcast, learn about how the thrill of victory feels to an Olympic athlete. Listen in on an interview in Mandarin Chinese with an Olympic champion. (Rest assured: the phrase "I'm going to Hong Kong Disneyland" will not be found anywhere in this dialogue.) Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0605

Not that we think you would like hot beer, but believe us that in China it may be essential that you specify "cold" when you order your beer. In this podcast, learn how to use Mandarin Chinese to order a nice cold beer--essential pre-summer listening for those amongst us who feel that tepid beer is a swear word. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0517

Bosses amongst us, sit up and take note. Though you may not have had time to see it (due to being occupied with your "boss" things), you must take measures to ensure that your employees aren't comparing you to the annoying boss on "The Office." You may not have time for pseudo-reality TV shows, but you certainly don't want to become the next character in one. So pull out that fat wallet, buy a round, and listen to this podcast on how not to be the loathed "stingy boss." Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0599

"TIGER, tiger, burning bright, in the forests of the night, what immortal hand or eye could frame thy fearful symmetry?" In the distant post-apocalyptic future, cultural disputes will be resolved through Thunderdome/Survivor showdowns. And when that happens William Blake is in big trouble. Because no matter how good his scansion, roughly a fifth of the world's population knows the little tiger ditty in our podcast by heart. Why it sounds like Frère Jacques is beyond us, but here it is: ChinesePod presents the tiger song, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0540

Though being the only one at the intersection NOT jaywalking may make you feel like you're not one of the 'cool' kids, we'd hate for you to have to endure the humiliation of having the ear-shattering whistle of the traffic warden blown in your noise-pollution assaulted ears. Listen to this podcast, and use your Chinese to stay out of trouble--or at least to come up with some lame excuses! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0595

If you've given up on using chopsticks and haven't studied our lesson on requesting a fork yet, you may just have to pretend that where you come from, eating with your hands is a sign of respect for the chef. No problem! In some places it probably is. But when you're done, don't forget this important Mandarin Chinese lesson on requesting a napkin. Of course, upon visualizing this debacle, really, learning the art of chopstick use might be a tad classier. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0536

Think of track and field as a profound metaphor for Chinese learning: Jumping over grammar hurdles, throwing out words like shotputs, the high-jump of the leap from elementary to intermediate level... hey, when you have a good enough imagination, anything can be a metaphor for learning Chinese. Listen to this latest addition to our Olympics family of lessons, and start your training for the Chinese marathon! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0590

When learning a language there are a profusion of ways to acquire new language. One method many have found helpful has been dubbed "pictionary." However, when your partner in language, pen in hand, attempts to illustrate a concept to you by drawing a likeness that looks like a game of pick-up-sticks gone bad... it's time for this lesson. In this podcast, learn how to ask for someone to illustrate by example, rather than creative genius, using Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0532

When your mouth is on fire and the only thing within reach with which to douse the flames is a tiny cup of hot tea, you had better be wise enough to take precautionary measures. In this lesson, learn how to avoid the potentially high cost of mouth skin grafts, and take control of your oral inferno, in Mandarin Chinese. (Recommended follow up lesson: "Thirsty for Water"...) Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0586

Though you may find having your face pressed up against someone else's cheek a little unpleasant, think of the intimacy it affords. Once you have listened to this podcast, you will handily be able use your Mandarin Chinese on a crowded subway or bus to enquire of your newly proximate acquaintance what stop you are at. Extracting yourself from the cozy throngs-- now, that is not a Chinese lesson, that is an art. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0527

Why is the sky blue? Why is the grass green? Why is Chinese still using hieroglyphics for its written language? While some questions are simply unanswerable, in this podcast, we will start by answering for you the question of how to say "why" in Mandarin. The answers to all the other enigmas of life, dear poddies, we'll leave for a future lesson, when Ken's in a more philosophical mood. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0582

Some things are not discussed in polite society. In today's groundbreaking lesson in Mandarin Chinese, we run through how to shatter that taboo and accuse your friends, neighbors and language partners of... well, having an overabundance of spirits. Note: vocabulary also useful when touring certain alternative-energy plants. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0523

The little extras you'll have to crown your food masterpiece with on this side of the world may just turn out to be a little different than the humble yet revered fixings you're accustomed to back home. Come to think of it, the foods you'll like to adorn here aren't the most ketchup-and-mustard-friendly anyway. So, get with the Chinese food condiments and find out where it's really at in Chinese food. Listen to this podcast and learn in Mandarin how to exalt your foodstuffs to the zenith of culinary perfection! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0577

No one likes waiting for the bus. But if you can’t find the bus stop, it’s going to make things that much more difficult. So before you give up and hop in that taxi, listen to this podcast, and learn how to ask where the bus stop is, in Mandarin Chinese. And remember... hold on tight! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0513

It's not that we advocate being TV addicts, however, come 2008 we'll be glued to our screens (or fighting the crowds in Beijing) with the best of them to watch the very first Olympic games ever held in China. In this podcast, learn how to sit down, turn on the telly, and camp out for a two-week viewing extravaganza, in Mandarin Chinese. Yet another incentive to make the trip to China for the games: not having to be ripped from slumber at 3:00am to watch! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0574

Mosquitoes are an age-old plague to mankind. Trinket salesmen are an age-old plague to tourists. You'll be assaulted by both climbing the Great Wall, but only one will bite. This podcast teaches you how to shut out those flying bloodsuckers in Mandarin Chinese (and if those are the trinket vendors, you're on your own). Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0509

Honey bunny... Sweet pea... pumpkin. You've heard them before - you probably use them. They play a role in close relationships, but few people know how to express such things in a language other than their native tongue. Today Qing Wen explores the oft-overlooked yet important world of terms of endearment. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/QW0146

You know that Ken and Jenny like to show their appreciation to our CPoddies by giving you a little serenade for your listening pleasure from time to time. Thus, in this podcast they will teach you a little ditty in Mandarin Chinese all about the the colors of the sky, clouds, fields, grass and sun. Sound a little flower child-ish? Well, maybe just a little...  Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0505

O, the profundity of language. Read literally, the word for contradiction in Chinese is nothing less intriguing than: "spear shield." Yes, it's just this kind of mental gymnastic that keeps us coming back for more. In this podcast, join us as we penetrate the fathomless depths of Chinese word origin and learn the interesting (poetic license notwithstanding) story of "contradiction," in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0562

Men, at times, find comprehending the female nature a perplexing and bewildering endeavor. However, leave it to this podcast to teach you the three magic words that women the world over, no matter what race, religion or language group, love to hear. (If only life were really that simple.) In this lesson, learn how to profess your love in Mandarin Chinese... and remember (profound statement of the day): you don't have to understand something to love it! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0564

Drug stores are full of potentially embarrassing items. Embarrassment is exponentially heightened when it involves the acting out of said item to drug store clerk, gesturing to specific body parts and drawing pictures. Thankfully, we at ChinesePod do not shy away from these topics (to wit: lesson on buying tampons), and wouldn't want to see you acting out the word for "condom." Thus, this podcast, where you will learn how to discreetly ask for your contraceptive of choice, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0567

There is going to be lots to write home about when you're in China, so because ChinesePod knows how much your mom wants to hear from you, we have created this lesson on inquiring about internet café rates. In this podcast, learn how to ask in Mandarin Chinese how much the rate is per hour, and also how to complain about the price being a bit expensive. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0501

This podcast covers a famous Chinese story about an old man who moves a mountain. Like most famous Chinese stories, it is more open to interpretation than you might expect. So... while we're not exactly sure what the mountain represents, or where it ends up (NIMBY, thank you), this is a handy story to know. Sit back by the fire, dowload this podcast, and learn it in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0553

Hot day—there’s nothing you imagine that could be better than a nice cold glass of ice water... aha, not so! There is a whole nation of Chinese people that would beg to differ with you on this point. In this podcast, learn how to request a glass of water in Mandarin Chinese... cold water. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0497

Some love to watch Olympic swimming--the poignant fortitude of the human spirit, the split-second heart-breaking culmination to a lifetime of training, the record-crushing photo finishes, the heart-wrenching agony of defeat. Others, however, appreciate something different. The robust, wet, speedo-clad chisled physiques. . . a testimony to the exquisiteness of human anatomy in it's highest form. . . (sigh). Whatever your thing, listen in to this podcast, and learn about Olympic swimming in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0545

Admittedly, you may have been getting a little bit raucous practicing the “Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes” song you learned in that other podcast, but baby comes first. In this lesson, listen and learn how to tell someone in Mandarin Chinese to be quiet, ‘cause the baby is sleeping. Even if you don’t have a baby, it’s a handy phrase to use on those noisy neighbors (works every time). Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0494

You lay out a few thousand kuai on what you think is a great deal on a mobile phone. But as you dial your soon to be jealous friend's number and get a waft of the slightly pungent but unmistakable aroma of burning wires, you feel a vague uneasiness. Was it prudent to have trusted that man in the dark cloak that lured you into the back alley? In this podcast, we'll help you to learn how to return something for a refund, using Mandarin Chinese. (we're assuming, of course, that the dark cloak man gave you a receipt... right?) Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0538

We love our ChinesePod students, and we want to make sure that you’re all in attendance today. Thus, our lesson on calling roll. Listen to this podcast to learn how to be accounted for in Mandarin Chinese! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0490

Not that anyone's intimating that you've got big feet, a wide girth, or an ample posterior -- but those who have been in China for a while know that the Chinese tend to be a little more "petite" than their western counterparts. In this lesson, learn how to ask for your size in Mandarin Chinese... and to understand the (often) disappointing answer. But don't be dismayed -- there's just that much more of you to love. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0530

Now, don't be shy to act out all the motions that go along with this podcast, wherein you will learn a well-loved song about your body parts in Mandarin Chinese. Think of it as multi-tasking--a Chinese workout. Oh, and we'll be listening to make sure you are singing along too! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0484

You may be feeling stranded, lost, confused... but you are never alone. That's right--a friendly robotic lady voice and soothing Kenny G ballad are just a phone call away. Listen to this podcast, and learn the Mandarin Chinese language you'll need to make that inevitably necessary call to Directory Assistance (dial 114) to get a phone number or address (or, heck, just to chat.) You'll never be lonely again! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0525

You may know about a famous Chinese "Day for the Ladies," but what about that face-down-in-green-beer-that-seemed-like-a-good-idea-at-the-time holiday involving leprechauns? You'll only know if you listen to this podcast, the source to learn about St. Patrick’s Day in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0458

Taiwan is not often the focus of our lessons at ChinesePod, but this time it's front and center. Learn such gems as "Taiwan is an island," as well as some of the names of the major cities on said island. As for you political-minded rascals, ho ho, no we're not going there. We're here to help you learn Chinese! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1998

When you strike up a conversation with someone in Shanghai, people will inevitably want to know how long you've been there. Whether you're a grizzled expat who's been there for years or a newbie who's just around for a couple of days, you'll still need to know how to respond in Mandarin Chinese. Learn how in today's newbie lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1952

The 2012 Olympics are in London! If you're from London, going to London, or even fond of occasionally mentioning London, you'd better be able to say it in Chinese! (Oh, and while we're at it, let's make sure you can say "London" in Chinese as well...) Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1993

Another Chinese class is over. You've answered the teacher's questions masterfully throughout and are ready to get home. Learn how classes are ended and how to bid farewell to your teacher in today's newbie lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1942

What are friends for? Lending money, right? In this lesson, learn how to extract as much money as possible from your good, generous friend. (You'll pay him back, of course.) Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1984

Now, we know ChinesePod users like to sit in hip cafés and listen to hip Chinese podcasts, so before you commit to buying that 30RMB cappuccino, we’ve created a lesson to help you to ask if wireless internet is available. We’ll also help you to learn how to ask in Mandarin Chinese whether there are any associated fees, as well—so that 30RMB cappuccino doesn’t turn into a $30 cappuccino. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0480

In China, convenience reigns supreme. So, not only can you buy a drink, herb-flavored gum, underwear, and/or a brown simmering egg in a convenience store, you can also handily pay your bills. In this podcast, learn how to pay those bills using Mandarin Chinese. Don't forget to stop and enjoy the tantalizing tea egg aroma while you're there! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0519

On your next trip back to your home country, don’t forget to pick up some nice “western” treats for all your little friends in the neighborhood to try. And leave it to ChinesePod to think up a lesson to teach you how to be the benevolent benefactor that you will come to be known as around the ‘hood when you start handing out treats. Listen to this podcast to learn how to be a “sugar daddy” in Mandarin Chinese. But remember: buy in bulk...! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0478

Now that your Mandarin is getting so good, chances are all you cool CPoddies will be out late partying every night, your Mandarin getting more fluent with every drink you imbibe. But don’t forget there will be some worrywarts who would appreciate a phone call home when you'll be out late. In this podcast, learn how to talk about the time being late, as well as how to express worry in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0515

Not every baby is cute, but here in China, almost all of them are, so you'll probably find yourself in many situations in which you'll feel the need to tell parents just how adorable their little one is. In today's Newbie lesson, learn all about how to compliment a baby without holding back, because it's not really about that baby's self-esteem anyway - it's about the parents'. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1932

Learning Mandarin is like climbing a mountain made of dumplings. And as with other mountaineering expeditions, it's necessary to study the landscape before starting the ascent. In this podcast, we unravel the mystery of the xiaolongbao, the Mount Everest of Chinese breakfast foods. Tip to the wise: if you can't smell the ocean, don't buy the ones with crab meat. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0511

Though the screech of an alarm clock sounds the same in any language, we know that all this studying makes you tired, so we’ve prepared a lesson on giving you that extra “nudge” to get up out of bed in the morning. In this podcast learn how to tell someone in Chinese that it’s late and they need to get up. Which brings to mind another good thing about Mandarin on your terms: You don’t have to worry about being late for class. So go ahead...hit that snooze button for the seventh time. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0474

"Writing" in China has come a long way from its oracle bone past all the way to its QQ IMing and smartphone texting present. But now there's a new form called "WeChat" which mixes texting and free internet messages with voice messaging and GPS. WeChat is already pretty big in China, so if you're totally unaware, it's time to tackle this lesson... Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1990

Sometimes you say one word of Mandarin and the other side assumes you’re fluent and lets loose with a torrent of Chinese. But then there are times when you have the opposite problem: you don’t hear what someone says, and then they write you off as not even understanding “ni hao.” This podcast was designed for just that maddening situation, so tune in and learn what Mandarin to use in that situation. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0472

We hope that those who come to China have a good memory, seeing as mobile phone numbers are about 20 digits long here. In this podcast, experience a Mandarin Chinese lesson on getting something you can’t live without here—a mobile phone SIM card. (ChinesePod tip: don’t get tricked into taking the number 444-4444-4444 ‘cause it’s easy to remember…) Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0507

What is a 成语 or Chéngyǔ? It's an idiom. Here we learn 2 Chinese Idioms! The first is "Lower than a pig or a dog!" The second one is "Fowls and dogs are not at peace!" Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4093

It's a classic situation in any culture. A child breaks something, and when their parents ask them about it, they deny doing it. In this lesson, a father grills his son about something he broke. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2108

In part 1 of making a dinner reservation, you learned how to say you needed a dinner reservation for how many people. You're almost done, but you're still going to need to leave your phone number and your name. Learn how to do just that in this podcast. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1930

Whether or not one can play a musical instrument, everyone appreciates a good tune. In this lesson, learn how to talk about music and playing musical instruments. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2105

The Chinese language has 4 tones. Follow along with Grace as she brings the 4 tones of Ma alive! The newbie lesson pairs nicely with "The Characters of Ma!" Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4091

Here is a lesson for all our Chinese-speaking carnivores out there. Now, we know steak isn't really a Chinese food, but some of you just may get a yearning to sink your teeth into a red juicy (or not) slab of meat once in a while. So, listen to this podcast to learn how to order it to your liking--in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0503

This is a breakdown of the characters or hanzi behind "Ma!" This lesson pairs nicely with the newbie lesson "Tones of Ma!" Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4090

So you've enjoyed some travels in China of late, but part of the fun is getting to go home and brag to everyone about what you've seen. Listen to this podcast and learn how to use Mandarin Chinese to tell someone about what you've seen and done whilst adventuring in the "Middle Kingdom." Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0500

No China experience would be complete without the “stuck in the middle of a giant mass of people” part. But you really need to get through. Not willing to just PUSH, you have to know what to say. In this podcast, you learn how to say “let me through” in Mandarin. (Getting the crowd to actually take you seriously is up to you.) Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0469

It's time to get those chores done! In this lesson, learn how to talk about doing house work, from washing dishes and doing laundry to tidying up your room. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2102

OK, so you’re in a little Chinese shop, or checking out a vendor’s stand, and the clerk is super excited. She’s trotting out a seemingly endless line of products, not a single one which arises an iota of your interest. So how do you tell her that you’re really “just looking?” In this podcast you can learn the Mandarin to do just that. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0465

Don’t you hate it when you want to know how to tell someone off in Chinese, but you just can’t find the words? Which results in your usual strong words: you bad! Well, leave it to ChinesePod to teach you the phrases you really want to know, like “shut up!” In this podcast, listen in as two friends have a little exchange of words. (Later, we’ll teach you how to kiss and make up). Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0492

Ever been on the hunt for wifi? Here's how to ask! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4087

So much of life if consumed with planning for the things that we want to do. In this lesson, two coworkers talk about an upcoming annual meeting at work and whether or not one of them can attend. Learn how to talk about participating in big events like weddings, meetings, etc., as well as plans to return home. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2099

You know that guy that keeps calling your home number at 3am and asking for “Lao Li” in Chinese? You’ve tried screaming, you’ve tried threatening, you’ve tried begging. But he just KEEPS CALLING. With the help of this podcast you can learn how to finally tell the guy “wrong number” in Mandarin Chinese. (That’ll show him.) Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0460

Co-workers come and go in offices throughout the world. In this lesson, learn how to say goodbye to your Chinese co-workers and wish them the best. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2096

Emergencies happen. Buildings catch on fire. Here at ChinesePod, we prefer to think of these unfortunate incidents as “opportunities”--for you to start causing a ruckus about it in Mandarin. If your Chinese is not yet up to the task, then it’s time to tune into this podcast. You’ll learn not only how to tell people there’s a fire, but also how to dial the appropriate emergency number. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0455

Though your instinct may be to scream and run, a clogged toilet just isn’t going to go away, as we all know. Since you insist on throwing your toilet paper into the toilet (unlike the locals, who know better!), you will likely shortly be in need of this lesson. In this podcast learn how to use your Mandarin Chinese to beckon for your property manager’s help to deal with this delicate task. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0487

Asking Questions you need to know these five pronouns: who, what, when, where, and why. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4079

How much should you leave as a tip after a meal in China? The answer is nothing! In China, it is not customary to give tips. In this lesson, two friends learn what happens when you try to give a tip in China after a meal. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2090

Some say "1.3 billion people," but we say "1.3 billion human dictionaries." That's right, why should you thumb through one of those new-fangled "book" thingies when you can rely on glorious oral tradition and just ask people what words mean? This lesson will equip you to do just that, in Chinese! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1979

Little children do the strangest things, don't they? They bring us great delight, but also prove to be little monsters from time to time. In this lesson, a mother discovers that her precious child may have taken its drawing a little too far. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2087

You never know when you’ll end up in the colored ball room at Ikea and want to know how to have a conversation about colored balls, but, seriously, knowing about shapes and colors always comes in handy! In this podcast, Ken and Jenny use a graphic to help put you through the training. Learn the Mandarin words for six different colors, as well as how to describe big and small. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0451

Now that China is your "adopted country", you had better make sure you know what your flag looks like. The national anthem? Hmm, that we'll leave for you to learn before 2008 (or you can just hum along). In this podcast, learn a little bit about the flag and national anthem of China, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0482

Mr. Li is the talk of the town. He's dashing, he's witty, and... he's a father! In this lesson, the gossip turns to the subject of Mr. Li's children. If you're a parent (or maybe you're working on a complete inventory of everyone's children), you're going to find this lesson useful. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1976

Ever wondered what Easter has to do with chocolate bunnies? Well…you won’t find out in this podcast. You will, however, learn how to talk about this important holiday in Mandarin Chinese. Listen in to this podcast and learn how to discuss Easter in Chinese, and learn some words that have to do with the religious significance of this observance. Oh yes, and you will learn one of the most important words in any language: “chocolate”. Yes, don’t miss this one! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0477

Granted, you might get some stares for just being in an elevator, but your situation might improve if you could actually use your Mandarin Chinese to tell the attendant to which floor you're headed. Thus, the podcast. Next stop: Mandarin on Your Terms (obvious, yes, but we get away with it because we're cute). Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0444

Huge guys in black suits with icy stares, bouncers are the same everywhere. In this lesson, two friends try to check out a popular nightclub, only to find themselves stopped by a bouncer at the door. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2086

Chinese people are often very gracious and helpful towards foreign guests, especially when traveling via train or plane. Having trouble stowing your heavy bag in an overhead compartment? Chances are you'll have someone offering to help you in no time. Learn how to accept such aid (and offer it!) in today's lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1969

Jokes are never as funny when they have to be explained, and it’s likely that a joke in Chinese is going to need an explanation. But what about a joke where there’s really nothing to get? Not only do you not feel dumb, but you actually get smarter, because you learn all the Mandarin associated with a “cold joke” in this podcast. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0467

You want a coffee, and that nice Chinese employee in the cafe wants nothing more than to sell you one. So stop overthinking it and cut to the chase. It's time to learn how to order a coffee (a latte, let's say) in Mandarin Chinese. Sweet caffeine awaits. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1962

For the record, we're a clean podcast. But every now and then we make a mess. But does a podcast listed in Time Magazine clean up after itself? Absolutely not! We delegate.This is where you learn the Mandarin you need to get that Chinese housework done. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0459

Alicia has ‘em, so does Florida. But what happens when you lose yours? A lesson, that’s what! Learn how to express your panic, in Mandarin Chinese, when you can’t find your something. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0439

Practically, it's a very important piece of knowledge to have: bathrooms in China often don't have toilet paper. The assumption is that folks will bring their own paper or tissues with them when doing their business. In this lesson, someone learns this piece of information the hard way... Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2083

Oh sure, you can get ‘em over with a broad gesturing sweep of the arm, but it’s getting them to stay that’s causing some problems. I mean, you touch them and then point down to the sidewalk, which seems obvious--but it could also mean you want to buy concrete. How about a podcast teaching you how to say “wait here” in Mandarin Chinese? Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0437

While the writer attempts to interject occasional humor into these intros, he knows there's nothing funny about the word ‘bu’, especially when you factor in the rules involved. Sorry, you don't know the rules? Oh, you'll thank us for this podcast that takes away the mystery of the changeable ‘bu’ in Mandarin Chinese, then. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0453

I'm sure we have all pestered our parents asking them "can I do this?" or "can I do that?".In today's Newbie Mandarin lesson you will learn a really useful and highly repeated phrase for saying you can or cannot do something. In Chinese there are about 3 ways to say can, and in today's lesson we focus on the one that is used when asking for permission. For example, when asking if you can use the toilet, or if you can eat and drink on the subway. After the lesson you will be confident in knowing when to use which "can" word. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2815

School days are here. In this lesson, read the diary of a student about their day at school. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2081

It’s only right that with us being the “bread and butter” of your day, we also offer up a Mandarin Chinese lesson on buying these two basics at the grocers. In this podcast, learn how to request a specific item at the supermarket, using your Mandarin Chinese. Spread the word! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0434

If there's one place you're apt to find yourself in a crowded elevator, it's China. With so many people around, chances someone will have to help you push your floor if it hasn't been pushed already. This lesson helps bring your elevator talk to a new level. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2077

Today we're trying out a different style of lesson. We are following the traditional ChinesePod approach, but adding this visual element to hopefully make learning Chinese that little bit easier. We hope you like it and if you have any feedback, we'd love to hear what you have to say in the comments below :) Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2748

ChinesePod loves sports, which is why ChinesePod has such a fantastic figure. So, in keeping with that “little meet-up” in Beijing happenin' in 2008, in this podcast we offer up a Mandarin Chinese lesson on that slightly popular and oh-so-exciting game of ping pong. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0448

No matter where you are in China, Chinese people will be lavishing praise on you the moment you're able to utter even a simple "hello" or "thank you" in barely distinguishable Chinese. It's important to know how to deflect this politely (your Chinese companion will often expect you to!). Listen to today's newbie lesson to learn how! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1986

It's time to check out a basketball game. In this lesson, learn the word for 'basketball game', and more importantly, how to say you're free to go watch! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2075

There are a few things ChinesePod is scared of: 1. Having to be constrained to a classroom seat to learn language 2. Animals dressed as humans 3. The dark …so, over the next few months, we will address each. Today, we start with the 3rd: what would one say when the power goes out? Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0431

Your head aches, your mouth is dry and your stomach is churning, but you're not sick. You had a lot of fun last night, maybe too much fun... In this lesson, learn how to talk about feeling under weather after a night out on the town. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2073

“Ah,” you say (in Mandarin), “it’s raining and I don’t have my….” (stopping short here to describe curvy handle with fabric cover except that you don’t know how to say “curvy,” “handle,” or “fabric,” meaning it just got weird). Let us help you out in this podcast and teach you how to talk about “neglecting to pack the brelly”, using Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0420

Granted, the names might have changed, but the story stays the same. The same story that got [Artist Previously Known as Rian the Intern] through some rough times. The least we can do is share it with you... in Chinese, of course. In this podcast, learn the Mandarin Chinese version of the well-loved fable (* moral can be applied to learning Chinese). Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0445

When you hear a Chinese person's name, you can be reasonably sure that each syllable is a character and that the first character is the surname. But with thousands of Chinese characters, you often won't know which character it is unless you ask. Learn how to ask in this lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1982

Did you ever hear the one about the Monks in the Temple on the Mountain? We have--in fact, the Monks in the Temple on the Mountain is one of our favorites… so much so that in this podcast we’d like to offer up a Mandarin Chinese lesson on the Monks in the Temple on the Mountain. Well, that is, unless you’ve already heard the one about the Monks in the Temple on the Mountain. That reminds us… have you ever heard… [further text removed by ChinesePod staff] Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0441

“White rain! Cold ice!” While these are admirable attempts at saying, “it’s snowing,” it still kind of makes you sound like a tool. So in this podcast, how about we not only teach you how to say it in Mandarin Chinese, but also suggest that you go outside to play in it? Just don’t eat the 黄雪. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0416

The weekend's here. What are you going to do? Curl up with a book? Play sports with your friends? Surf the web? In this lesson, two friends talk about what they like to do on weekends. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2070

Shopping is a great opportunity to practice your Chinese. In today's lesson, you'll learn a new way to say "how much is this?" so that you can prompt the shopkeeper to tell you about their deals and different pricing combos. You'll also learn how to play hardball to haggle your way to a good deal. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2695

As mentioned, we’re all quite aware that our Jenny is one of the most downloaded women on the net--but she’s also a hoot! How funny? Really funny… or our name isn’t “ChinesePod.” Which it is…so there you go. Listen in to this podcast and learn a Mandarin Chinese joke to tell at your next party. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0435

This lesson clearly shows how using different characters in Chinese (才cái VS 就 jiù) can switch the meaning of otherwise identical sentences. We hear two people discussing their sleeping habits and how the student feels it's early to get to sleep at 2am, whilst the working person thinks that's rather late. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2661

You see him stealing, you yell at people to draw attention, but all you can say is “bu hao ren,” which could make you come across a bit judgmental. So, the sooner you can shout “thief”, the sooner you can go back home a hero. Listen to this podcast and learn how to make your Mandarin Chinese come to the rescue. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0423

Not that we condone it (we learned that lesson before), but there’s a nice, and a not-so-nice way of lighting up. So, why not ask if it’s an appropriate “smoking area” beforehand? In this podcast, learn how to do just that, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0411

Meeting someone for the first time on a blind date can be an awkward experience as it is, especially when you don't know what they look like. In this lesson, we've decided to raise the stakes by making that first encounter in Chinese! Don't worry, it's easier than you think! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2068

Again, feel free to make your arms ttttttttttttttttttthhhhhhhhhiiiiiiiissssssss big, then point to yourself, and then to China, and then hold up fingers to let them know how long you’ve been in China and how long you’re staying… or, you could listen in to this podcast on how to differentiate between the two in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0409

The “big man” sets a deadline, but everyone decides that if they combine forces, they’ll be able to get it extended. But boss man didn’t get the corner office by being flexible, and says no. (The lesson is much more interesting than the description. Trust us.) In this podcast, learn an attempt at negotiating with the big boss over deadlines, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0417

We can tell you from experience: the Chinese really have no clue about how crazy their mother tongue sounds to the rest of us. So while we're certainly not shocked that you might need things repeated again and again, the Chinese themselves are going to need that reminder. Repeatedly. Learn how to ask your kind, patient hosts to "say it again" in this lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1996

Chinese class is over and it's time to have some fun. In this lesson, learn how to talk about getting out of class, telling time and playing sports. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2065

To drink the tap water, or not to drink; that is the question. In this podcast you will learn how to use Mandarin Chinese to warn someone not to drink the tap water; as well as how to ask what is wrong with it, and how to tell someone that the water is unsanitary. Not only that, but you will also learn how to thank someone for telling you! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0406

Seeing double or just looking at a pair of twins? It's a common practice the world over for the parents of twins to dress up their double bundles of joy in matching clothing. In this lesson, learn to talk about similarities and differences as someone is overtaken by the cuteness of a pair of twin babies. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2063

Do you have any questions? Of course you do! Because you're a good student, and good students always have questions. But just in case your question is, "how do you say 'do you have any questions,'" we've prepared this Chinese lesson just for you. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1988

You want to buy it, but you’re not sure if it’s sold by unit, package or weight. We want you to buy it (we’re secretly getting 15%), thus, the lesson on finding out how something is sold. In this podcast, learn how to ask how something is sold, using Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0413

Though quite likely the response in these parts on a given day may be typhoon, blizzard or hurricane, we're not going to teach you how to say those just yet. However, in this podcast you will learn how to get your way through this universal conversation starter in Mandarin Chinese. How's the weather? Get ready to be the life of the party when you pull this topic out of your sleeve. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1017

They didn’t get your “Just the fax, ma’am” joke, nor did they understand when you mimed the document flying across the little map in their office. So, in this podcast, how about we quickly teach you how to say send a fax in Mandarin Chinese, hmmm? Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0407

With certain cities in China being referred to as “the fiery furnaces” in summer due to their hot climate, when the temperature rises you just may find that asking someone to turn on the air conditioning becomes essential survival Chinese! In this podcast you will learn how to ask someone to turn on the air conditioning, and how to express that the temperature is “just right” in Mandarin Chinese. Now you’ll be able to pass the summers a lot more comfortably! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0402

Contrary to everything you thought you understood about the world up until now, no, grass is not made for walking on, rolling down, dog-frolicking, pant-knee-staining, smelling, or any other such frivolities. Though your laundress may be glad, your walk in the park may never be the same. Listen to this podcast, a whistle-blowing on those who dare to not 'keep off the grass.' Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1012

“They’re hanging in there with the chopsticks, aren’t they?” –Jerry Seinfeld Should you be the one that finally caves and simply has to ask for a fork, this one’s for you… quitter. In this podcast, learn to request cutlery in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0397

You haven’t really experienced Chinese culture until you’ve spent all night playing Mahjong with your friends. So do you know how to play? If not, listen and learn; in this podcast you will learn how to ask someone in Mandarin Chinese if they know how to play Mahjong. You will also learn how to say that you don’t play very well; and who knows, just like our friend in the dialogue, you may just get a willing gambler to offer to teach you! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0403

We're not talking about the Grammy Award winning female hip-hop artists who sang Push It, and we're not talking about MSG and chilies. We're talking about the most basic of basics and something you'll definitely need if you want a taste of home. In this podcast, you'll learn how to ask for salt and pepper in Mandarin Chinese. Of course, if you get meiyou'ed, that other world of taste enhancing crystals is always another option. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1014

Managers are a big deal in these parts. And you don't want to go calling them any old 'Mister.' In this podcast, learn how to address and introduce your manager in Chinese in the most efficient, face-giving manner possible. Sure to result in promotions, raises, slaps on the back, and right back at ya face-giving maneuvers. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1009

No doubt, you’ve heard from people how wonderful it is to come visit us. So how could you tell your colleagues you’re going on holiday? I mean, you could do it in English…or be that really annoying person who answers in Mandarin! In this podcast, learn to talk all about it, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0393

A vain flap of the hand. A loud throat clear. A futile effort at eye contact. You want a waiter and you want one now. How you gonna find one? That's right. Start hollering. Hey, you're not tipping so you get what you pay for. Here's how to ask your waiter to clear your dishes away, in Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1003

Scientific studies have proven that sleep improves memory. So jump into bed, and put your cold feet up against your significant other's warm leg. Start counting backwards from 500 in Chinese as you melt away into the happy happy land of dancing Chinese characters and Jenny and Ken's voices consolidating neurons in your head. This podcast will teach you the basics of good night! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1007

“So, big guy - what’s the matter?” “Oh…(sigh)…it’s…aw, you don’t want to hear about it.” But that’s where you’re wrong, buster--we do! So much that we even crafted a lesson on downplaying despair and despondency. In this podcast, learn how to whine and sigh a bit in Mandarin Chinese (Premium subscribers get to hug it out). Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0399

Subway poles, dirty money, bajillions of people... perhaps the fact that hand shaking is not so popular yet has saved the Chinese race from germ decimation. China--not the place for those with hypochondriacal tendencies. In this podcast, learn how to make sure those you share hand space with have washed their dirty little hands. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1005

John promised to stop singing the Curtis Blow hit (”We’re playin’ baaaaaaasketbaaaaaaallllllll….”) if you promise to listen and use this lesson on verbs and cheers any basketball fan might need. In this podcast, learn how to cheer on your team in Mandarin Chinese. At least you’ll make Yao Ming feel at home. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0392

In New York it’s “how ya doin’,” but here your well-being can be measured by your belt notch. So what say you to the classic “have you eaten” greetin’? It’s all inside. Listen to this podcast and learn how to ask it, and how to answer, all in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0389

The days of our lives. Like sands through the hourglass. Today, on this most momentous of days, let us all listen to this podcast, rekindle, reminisce, kiss passionately, sing kumbaya, and vow eternal love to each other. If you don't know what day it is, do not admit it. Either way, join in the celebrations of this auspicious day for Chinese learners everywhere... and figure out what the heck is going on! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1000

You know you need to speak to “Li,” but don’t know how to ask if he’s there. So you simply say “Li?” to whomever answers. Her name isn’t “Li” and she keeps trying to tell you that; so you say “No…Li!” which ends up in anger--and we’re a peaceful podcast. So in this podcast learn how to ask if “(so-and-so) is there”, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0386

You’re not cold, but it doesn’t matter. Your Chinese friends know you’re here without your mother, so along with feeding you, there’s also the ongoing fear that you’ll catch cold. So what would a lesson on “dressing warmly” sound like? Erm… this. In this podcast, learn how to tell someone it’s cold outside and to put on some more clothes, using Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0385

You spot a familiar figure on the street. Well it's best you know how to describe that person if you're trying to point them out from a busy crowd. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2657

When going out in the evening in Chinese cities, one is likely to run into ragged looking beggars soliciting change from passersby. And while some of these beggars have experienced terrible misfortunes, for others it's just an act to make easy money. In his lesson, learn how to talk about beggars and if you think one is just faking it. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2057

At ChinesePod, we not only care about helping you learn Mandarin, we also want to help your social standing…and, to be honest, herbs in the teeth a cool cat do not make. So, in this podcast, here’s what we can do: teach you how to order those tasty noodles, but without the either loathed or loved cilantro/coriander. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0383

So, you dug the previous “left/right” lesson (or enjoyed taking “orders” from Jenny) so much, we decided to make another. But in this podcast, instead of “left/right,” we’re taking you north/south/east/west. Watch, listen, learn Mandarin Chinese and love. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0379

We all have those tasks that no one wants to do, so you often end up getting into a war of attrition with your interlocutor. Today we hear lots of common sentence structures and phrases repeated and will teach you all about giving instructions, asking questions, and telling someone that you don't want to do it. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2652

Yes, we know you’d love nothing more than a “map to Jenny,” but until our ratings drop (yeah, right), we’ll hang onto that. What we can do is offer up “Jenny and a map.” In this visionary-of-a-lesson, keep your eye on the map and your ear on “The Zhu.” In this podcast, learn how to get around, using Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0371

Ordering tea from a tea shop can be a little daunting, but it's also a great chance to practice some of the Chinese you've been learning. We're here to guide you with the tools necessary to get some of that lovely bubble tea inside you. We also talk a little about some useful tone change rules which will help you with your pronunciation. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2644

Pens and notebooks are essential for any student, especially a student of Chinese. For many students of Chinese, mastering all of those characters requires writing and re-writing them over and over. In this lesson, learn how to go buy yourself some pens and notebooks and get started. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2054

They. Toast. Everything. …it’s a lesson you can learn from us, or learn the hard way. So, how about you turn the tables and offer up some Mandarin Chinese “drinking words” of your own? In this podcast, learn how to spread some “cheers”. (Premium subscribers will learn the whole swapping-the-baijiu-for-Sprite trick). Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0381

Start cleaning the living room and getting busy in the kitchen, you're about to have a dinner party. In this lesson, learn how to discuss how many people will be eating and how many dishes to make to prepare for the dinner party. And as someone plans for a dinner party with their housekeeper, you'll also learn how to apologize for causing them extra trouble. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2050

If ABBA can take a chance on you, then you can take a chance on the bus. But, unless it’s heading to a mountain, you won’t be able to read the characters. So, listen to this podcast, dig deep, pull out exact change, and ask the driver where that bus is going in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0376

While the writer cannot believe “grits” and “biscuits and gravy” were not included on the list of an “American Breakfast,” his contract stipulates that he still has to write this. So, (begrudgingly) here’s a lesson on that oh-so-important first meal. And if you don’t fancy having rice or noodles with your morning coffee, listen carefully to this podcast to learn how to ask for what you’re craving in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0364

What kind of movies do you like watching. Do you prefer romantic comedies, or perhaps sci-fi movies. Listen in to these two friends discuss their favourites. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2639

Everyone's always looking forward to their next holiday, but when is it again? Next month? Next week? To help figure it out, in this lesson, we discuss holidays and how to talk about dates and time. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2048

We’re all about the classics here – Chuck Taylors, Pong, New Coke, the lot. So why not help you out with the classic question: “what are you doing?” Why not, indeed! Listen to this podcast and learn it in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0372

Does steamed white rice have taste? Well, some of us seem to think so. However, there are those who just can't resist drizzling a bit of soy sauce over it to add a bit of flavor. In this elementary lesson, two friends discuss putting soy sauce on rice. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2046

To some, a trip to the hair salon is a delight. To others, it's a nerve-racking experience with a good chance of coming out with some awful haircut. Add to this the fact that this might be your first experience having to converse entirely in Chinese. Fear not; with ChinesePod, we can make your visit to the salon an enjoyable one. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2630

Again, you don’t have to use ChinesePod for everyday tasks, but it helps. Take, for instance, making copies. The putting down of said document next to blank document and using a finger to indicate (with a dramatic arch) what is on one, needs to go on the other could work, Mr. “Arching-Finger Hidden-Embarrassment” (1/2 of our staff didn’t get that), or you could just listen in to this podcast to learn how to use Mandarin Chinese with the photocopy man. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0357

When you first venture to a foreign country, the first thing you'll need to do is find somewhere to live. This lesson will arm you with all the vocabulary that you will need to haggle with your Chinese landlord, or at least the basics. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2620

“It’s not what you said; it’s the tone in which you said it!” By now, you’ll know the importance (and occasional frustration) of the tones in Mandarin Chinese, but even the best find themselves in a pickle when 2 third tones in a row causes a tone change… Confused? Good thing we decided to make a lesson out of it. Listen to this podcast to become the Chinese tone master you always dreamed of being. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0353

Oh sure, we say “karaoke” and you laugh and think about making a fool out of yourself in front of 200 others at the bar who all chimed in on the chorus to “Proud Mary.” But here it’s serious business. So how in the world can you explain in Mandarin Chinese to your demanding hosts that you really can’t, won’t and don’t sing? By listening to this podcast. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0368

If you haven't been in this situation, you haven't been in China long. There are just some times when you wait and you wait, but the food you order never arrives. So when you call to inquire, you're told that it's coming "right away." Learn all the key language in this Chinese lesson. How tough you want to get is up to you. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2026

“Soooo… who’s the eye-candy on your arm?” See, ChinesePod is used to these questions, as we only hire “hot-cakes.” So, what do you say to an old acquaintance when you’re seen hand in hand with your spouse? (This is your cue to press play). In this podcast, learn how to tell someone that you got hitched, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0365

“Thanks,” you say (in Chinese). “Goodness me! Your ability to master the language is amazing!” comes the response. So now what do you say? “Yes, actually it’s all due to ChinesePod”? As much as we’d like to think you’d promo us, we’re quite sure a podcast with a Chinese lesson on “playing down” your Mandarin would be more appropriate. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0348

Invented in Japan in the 80's, these marvels of human ingenuity have become more and more popular in recent years, especially with the food scandals of late. Listen in as a friend discusses her new purchase. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2615

Sure, you're studying Chinese. We all know that. But are you a casual learner, or are you hardcore? And by that, I mean, "how many lessons do you have per week?" Learn what every student needs to be able to answer in this lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2023

Yes, you’re a go-getter, self-starter, and outside-the-box thinker. But even you might need the occasional hand… especially at the office. So, not that you need it, but here’s a podcast with a Mandarin Chinese lesson on asking someone if they have time to give you a hand. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0361

When catching a train in a Chinese city, you need to know which train station you're leaving from. Cities will often have several train stations, and they are often nowhere near each other. In this lesson, a traveler in Shanghai is surprised to find that his taxi driver asks him which train station he wants to go to. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2042

It's that time of the year when you step on the scales and realise you have piled on the pounds. But don't worry. You have a whole year to drop that extra tire. Listen to this lesson and learn all about losing weight in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2610

Do you know how to say "terracotta warriors" in China? Any studious student has to know this word, and be warned, the Chinese is quite different from the English. History buffs also take note: Xi'an is a Chinese city that demands your attention. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2017

China's known for its fried rice; it's not known for its hot dogs. Still, there are plenty of spots in the Middle Kingdom to grab one these days. Of course, not everybody has an appetite for them... Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2044

Nobody likes taking too much with them when traveling. However, some of us just don't like washing their clothes when on the road. This lesson concerns to friends discussing how much clothing they're bringing on a trip and why. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2040

While on your side of the world a “waving one hand while the other rests on the belly” gesture indicates “no more,” here it’s taken more as a challenge. Now, feel free to either use the previous lesson on “throwing up,” or perhaps unbutton that brain for one more helping of ChinesePod. In this podcast, learn how to insist, in Mandarin Chinese, that you’re really, really full. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0358

Ah the income gap - a prevalent issue in China and many other parts of the world. Most of us are struggling forward to rise to the next income bracket (and studying Chinese might just be the boost you need to get there!). In this lesson we will be discussing differences between the rich and the poor. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2035

So, you got a little sick being flung around the backseat of that cab on the way over? Now, some poor cab driver is freezing his long-nailed fingers off washing off that back right side of his car, since you didn’t give him a heads up you were about to throw up. So, listen to this podcast. Yes, only at ChinesePod, a Mandarin Chinese lesson on hurling. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0354

“So… you’ll never guess who I bumped into! You know, about 5′8″, dark hair….” Yeah, good luck with that. We’re thinking that a lesson on describing people would help out– and we’re all about helping. In this podcast, learn how to describe people, using Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0341

It's time for a coffee break. In this lesson, learn how to ask your friend if they want to go with you on a trip to the convenience store for some coffee. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2059

While “how much” is usually reserved for all the bargaining you do here, it can also be used for “quantifying things,” meaning that you need to understand “measure words,” which means we need to make you a lesson on it… lest your retort to “how far is it” be “too expensive!” Listen in and expand your knowledge of this especially fun element of the Mandarin Chinese language. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0335

The maître d’ asks (in Chinese) “how many “--but you don’t understand, and resort back to your old days of “greasing the palm.” So she sees the 100 kuai note and assumes that you’re dining with 99 others. You’re more than welcome to book the place, or perhaps a quick Mandarin Chinese lesson on “how many?” would aid. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0351

Children are well-known for their boundless curiosity. It can be heartwarming and wonderful to behold on occasion, but if you're a parent, you're well aware that endless questions with no simple answers can get old quick. Today's dialogue features one such Chinese parent's predicament. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2030

Younger brothers can sometimes be a nuisance, breaking your things or asking you an endless amount of questions (kids are curious, after all). But more often than not, we can't help but feel proud for them. In this lesson we learn how to introduce our younger brother and tell his age. Younger brothers can sometimes be a nuisance, breaking your things or asking you an endless amount of questions (kids are curious, after all). But more often than not, we can't help but feel proud for them. In this lesson we learn how to introduce our younger brother and tell his age. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2033

Oh, you’ll find yourself in that uncomfortable situation, the one where you come here to visit us, and the guy next to you starts talking (in Chinese) about the upcoming Olympic marathon. Do you really want to be that person who just ends up saying “xie xie” the whole time? No. You don’t. In this podcast, learn to talk marathons with the best of them, in Mandarin Chinese Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0320

Today's newbie lesson will teach all of you who've just started learning Chinese how to give a basic self-introduction. We admit, this framework may not knock you off your feet with its scintillating content, but hey, it's functional and will get your point across. Learn how to let people know where you're from and what you do in Mandarin Chinese today! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2027

You’ve been waiting for this moment for years. Finally, the Olympics are here and you won’t have to hear about them anymore. No, but really, the Olympic opening ceremonies are a grand spectacle that is amazing to witness. Learn to talk about them in Mandarin Chinese, and about trying to buy tickets (good luck!) in this podcast. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0287

Once again, we respect your individuality. Thus the choices: When you need to throw that “baozi” napkin away, you can either make a “throwing” gesture – which would lead to an in-depth discussion on the NBA – or simply ask where it belongs. It’s up to you. We’ll love you either way. If you choose to listen, this podcast will teach you how to ask the location of something, and to point someone in the right direction. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0268

That “Cocktail Party” lesson got you an invite to dinner, and you even went as far to buy the traditional gift of “duck neck” to hand over to your guest. But what say you when the door is opened? In this podcast, learn some Chinese etiquette on being a good guest, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0326

It is common workplace knowledge that the reason Rian the Intern took a long sabbatical a few months back was because he was so deeply touched by “Love, Actually” that he got back into poetry. So this podcast is for him--and everyone else who still believes in the power of love-- an oh-so-special Mandarin Chinese lesson on Valentine’s Day gift-giving. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0425

Wo ai ni. I love you. I mean it. Look at these flowers i bought you, and these chocolates. And this card... it is a Hallmark day after all. Nothing says i love you like a lesson about Valentine's Day. After all... the Chinese celebrate not one, not two, but THREE Valentine's Days. And who said Mandarin wasn't the language of love? Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0791

Not that you’d ever find yourself in a position to identify what something is (this said we we’re still recovering from the “calf brain” we unknowingly tried last weekend), but should you wish to identify before ingesting, you might (burp) benefit from a lesson on asking what something is. In this podcast, learn how to ask what something is in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0205

It's the first day of college, and a younger sister is asking lots of questions about the older brother's classmates. The three de's Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/3037

Getting lost is an inevitable problem even you have Google Maps on your phone. Sometimes we still have to ask someone for help. So today, we’re going to learn what we can say when we are lost. Let’s get started! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4364

The fact that they invented them means that they can set them off all night (and we do mean ALL night) – but what does a parental talk before the fireworks begin sound like? A cracking lesson to get you in the Chinese New Year mood! (Oh, that’s right, you don’t celebrate this holiday there… we’ll send you a postcard.) In this podcast, learn to talk about these dangerous little explosives in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0430

Take a deep breath. It's time to order your first meal in Chinese. Luckily, many restaurants in China have picture menus which makes ordering a matter of simply pointing to something and saying "I want this". In this lesson, learn how to do just that, as well as discuss briefly with a friend what they want. Easy enough right? But what if they don't have what you want? Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2052

It's the day before Chinese New Year and everyone is antsy to get home to have dinner with their families. Some employees are able to get off work early and head home, but not everyone is so lucky... Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2368

The tones of Mandarin Chinese are a challenge for every learner. You don't just master tones in a week; it's a lengthy process. One thing you're going to be doing for a while, then, as a dedicated learner, is clarifying the tones for the words you're learning. In this lesson, learn the crucial question for asking "what tone is that?" Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2024

In the second video starring guest host Dan, we discuss a dialogue between two co-workers. One of them is very inquisitive, asking lots of questions about what the other person likes to do in their free time. The responses are not the most polite or detailed of answers. Learn ways to ask "What do you like to do when you're working/relaxing/at the weekend. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/3025

When you're first learning Chinese, it's pretty tough to express your basic opinions, needs, and desires when you don't know the names of the various objects that surround you. Today's lesson will teach you a useful phrase that will let you smoothly ask your teacher what something is called in Chinese USING Chinese! Handy! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2020

Everyone's got different preferences for living situations. Living with roommates can be vexing for those who desire personal space but a necessity for those who crave constant human interaction. Learn how to talk about your own housing situation in Mandarin Chinese in today's elementary lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2013

No matter how linguistically well-prepared you may be when you visit China for the first time (all thanks to ChinesePod, of course!), you'll still inevitably encounter any number of awkward and embarrassing situations that will require a basic exchange of niceties in the local language. Today's newbie lesson will equip you with the most basic of phrases to both apologize for your blunder as well as thank the local who is nice enough to assist you in your time of need. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2015

In certain groups, McDonalds has been renamed the “McEmbassy” – and no matter how much you tell yourself you won’t, you will end up caving in to that craving for something familiar. So what would a burger order sound like? A super-sized lesson, that’s what. Listen in to this podcast and learn how to use Mandarin Chinese to order food in a fast food restaurant. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0330

There're always people breaking rules, such as eating in a library or taking pictures in a museum. Do you want to stop them but don't know how? In this lesson, we are going to learn how to ask people not to do something and ask whether can we do something. Let's get started! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4352

It’s hard enough explaining “biscuits and gravy” to other countries, not to mention missing mom and her kitchen. So, when that long face is chewing on something from a cow’s face, how to save face and face up to the fact that you’re homesick? Listen to ChinesePod, of course – the most nurturing of all podcasts, and learn how to talk about good old home using Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0317

While “nothing is absolute”, we shudder to imagine a world without tying someone down…erm, metaphorically speaking, of course. In this podcast, Ken and Jenny unquestionably and beyond doubt teach you an indisputably certain Mandarin Chinese lesson on verbal confirmation. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0138

Staying at hostels in China are an excellent way to travel for the cash-strapped tourist and tend to be, in our experience, clean, tidy and full of friendly travellers. However, many of them will often lock up their doors as early as midnight! What's to be done if you're looking to explore a city's vibrant nightlife? Find out in today's elementary lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2010

Anyone who has lived in China knows that you can't make any new friends without Wechat! Today, in this newbie dialogue, we're showing you how to ask people out and add them on Wechat. Make sure to watch till the end! Joe has a little surprise for all of you! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4358

Subway, taxi, or bus? This is the common commuting conundrum faced by any number of working Chinese throughout the country. Listen in as two coworkers discuss the pros and cons (well, mostly the cons) of each mode of transportation in today's elementary lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2006

When the countdown to midnight begins, you never know who you’re going to be standing next to. In this lesson, learn how to talk about how you plan to spend New Year’s, and also how to wish someone a “Happy New Year” in Mandarin Chinese. Listen to this podcast, and we’ll help you to not be lost for words when you see in the New Year with a Chinese friend. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0073

Get ready for the countdown! The New Year is just hours away. In this lesson, two friends discuss their New Year's Eve plans. Learn the Chinese word for New Year and, of course, champagne! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2093

Let's face it, "Auld Lang Syne" is getting just a little bit stale, so we've come up with a new New Year's song. It's gonna sweep the globe. In Mandarin. What language is "Auld Lang Syne" anyway? If it can cut it for 300 years, so can a New Year's song in Chinese. Listen to this podcast, and sing loud! The tipsier you are, the better it will sound (to you, at least)! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0746

In today's ChinesePod lesson we're at the dinner table on Christmas, digging into some delicious home-cooked food. Join us and discover how to describe this special meal - in Chinese! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1321

You just got that karaoke machine you've wanted for ages. How do you express your delight in Mandarin Chinese? Listen to today's podcast! P.S. For those of you still shopping, ChinesePod makes a great gift... Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1058

“Do they know it’s Christmastime at allllllll....” - while John and Ken fight over who gets to sing the Spandau Ballet part, in this podcast we’ll unwrap a Mandarin Chinese lesson on buying Christmas presents here in China. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0375

A crazy man with a white fu manchu and white hair seems to have infiltrated your house. You get your nunchucks out from under your bed, poised to karate chop him. But wait. You've been spending a leeetle too much time studying Mandarin... keep your Chinese whipping stars in the closet--this isn't some old kung fu movie, it's Christmas... with a podcast to go with it. Listen and learn about old Santa, China-style. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0739

When living in China, going back to one's home country for Christmas can be difficult. Christmas isn't an official holiday in China and the place that many foreigners call home is far away. So if you end staying China for Christmas, how do you talk about it? Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2343

If you’ve spent any time in China, or plan to, you’ll notice a strange piece of paper being asked for at the end of meals/cab rides/etc. What is it? We’d better let Jenny explain; and if you’re lucky, she’ll include a lil’ cultural insight as well. In this podcast, learn how to ask for that precious receipt, in Mandarin Chinese. ChinesePod…the taste of fantastic. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0128

Everyone's heard the song Jingle Bells. But did you know that there's a Chinese version of this Christmas classic? We kid you not. Listen to this lesson to learn the words (that is, if you can remember past the first line). Jingle bells, jingle bells... Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1320

Nervous about how to get past that initial “good morning”? Well, nothing better than to ask a question, naturally, “how are you?” Here’s a great basic lesson that will get you through all your “good morning” greets. In this podcast you will learn how to give and respond to greetings in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0142

Time has flown by and once again it's time to deck the halls, hang the stockings, put up the Christmas tree and eagerly await Santa's arrival. Today's Qing Wen has all your favorite Christmas terminology in Mandarin Chinese. Listen in and amaze your Chinese friends with your ability to describe all your favorite Christmas traditions in detail! And finally, a happy holidays to all our beloved users from the entire ChinesePod staff! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/QW0232

In this lesson, we are going to look at a common dialogue between a guest and a host. We will show you how to invite someone to visit next time, and how you can take your leave as a guest. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4343

Picture this: it’s a dark night, and someone’s all tucked in. Alone in the house, each creak seems to come directly at her. So when the doorknob starts to rattle, what happens? A Mandarin Chinese lesson, that’s what…Listen in to this podcast and learn how to be able to discern who it really is pounding at your door. Premium subscribers will learn how to say, “The calls are coming from inside the house, mmmmwwwaaaaa haaaa haaaa.” Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0313

Greetings and farewells: the indispensable tools for striking up and ending conversations. If you don't want to appear entirely socially inept, you should probably master these phrases. Learn them in Mandarin Chinese in today's lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2007

If a good friend asks to borrow a little bit of money from us, we'll probably oblige 99% of the time without setting up any repayment parameters. But as the days turn into weeks and weeks into months, things can get a bit tricky and awkward when your "good friend" is slow in repaying his or her loan. Learn how to calmly tackle such a situation using Mandarin Chinese in today's ChinesePod lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2004

So you've hiked the Great Wall, explored the wonders of the Forbidden City, marveled at the Bund; you've exhausted the top-tier tourist attractions of eastern China. Fortunately for tireless travelers like you, China's a massive country chock full of national treasures available for your viewing pleasure. Next stop for the travelers in today's lesson: pandas! Learn how to talk about these cuddly creatures in this newbie lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2002

Ironic that the person sucking the marrow out of a bone at dinner would be somewhat timid about wearing contact lenses, but it happened (at least, in ChinesePodLand). So tilt your head back, pry open your mind and listen in to this lesson in Mandarin Chinese on Contact Lenses. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0305

This new lesson is about a major problem for people when traveling alone. And that is taking pictures of yourself! Yes you can always take selfies, but it doesn’t work for full body photos! In this lesson, Joe and Lyn will show you how to ask someone to take pictures of you when you’re traveling in China. After the video, you can say goodbye to selfie fails and say hello to insta-worthy photos! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4318

This is a lesson for all those proud parents out there. What’s better than showing off your cute offspring to those you meet? So, listen in on this podcast, and learn how to introduce your kids to those you meet, using Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0292

“So… what do you do?” While that might sound like a “Singles’ Night” introduction, we mean it… seriously (you should see our faces right now). In this lesson, you will learn how to ask someone what they do, using Mandarin Chinese. And this podcast will also help you to learn how to give a nice sounding response… and so much more. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0077

Despite most buildings here not having a 4th floor (whoooooooo), occasionally potential disaster still strikes (dum-Dum-DUM). So what would it sound like if two people were stuck in an elevator together? It’s all in the lesson, in Mandarin Chinese. So, if it happens, don’t panic—think ChinesePod. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0299

With these basic sentences you’ll be able to sound like a pro even if you only started studying Chinese five minutes ago. In this lesson, learn some high-frequency sentences in Mandarin Chinese that you will find you can use every day in China or with your Chinese friends. Careful with “Wǒ lái fù qián” though – showing off could get you into trouble… Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0071

A place of extremities, our Shanghai: blistering in the summer and arctic in the winter. All worth it for the autumn though. Fancy a “talk about the changing seasons” with another? Then take our hand as we stroll down a red leaf covered path of knowledge, as in this podcast you will learn to wax poetic in Mandarin Chinese about things such as heat and humidity. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0283

When you're planning a trip, it's important to know the dates and arrival times for your plane, train, boat, or whatever mode of transportation you're taking. Need to learn how to tell your contact in China all these important details? ChinesePod's got your back with today's newbie lesson! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/2001

Learning how to “be a man” and walk off that scrape that secretly makes you cry is important in impressing the other sex. So, follow along with our podcast, where the details just get gorier and gorier—starting off with someone bleeding. Learn all this juicy vocabulary, as well as how to act tough, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0295

You proudly made it out of the airport, into a taxi and found your way to the hotel! While you’ve been busy taking an orange out of the basket, we’ve added another to our “Traveler’s Audio Phrase Book” podcasts by aiding you and your jet-lagged self (drink water) in checking into your hotel. In this lesson you will learn how use Mandarin Chinese to explain to a clerk that you have reserved a room. Sweet dreams! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0067

Which sports do YOU like? Do you like Soccer, or perhaps a spot of badminton. Do you dabble with ping pong or perhaps a bit of rugger on a Sunday morning. Dan, friend of the show, hosts a lesson all about likes and dislikes of sport. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/3022

Have you ever tried to talk to a stranger on the street? Maybe you’re trying to get someone’s attention because he dropped something on the floor or you just want to get a pretty girl’s number. No matter what the reason is, this lesson is going to be useful for you because Joe and Lyn will show you different ways to strike up a conversation with someone you don’t know. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4313

“Come on over,” they say, “We’ve a furnished apartment for you!” “Great,” you think – until you get there. The bed is a foot and a half too small, and the chair doesn’t recline at all, making it hard to watch football. So what do you do, lazy boy? Learn how to sleep in the fetal position, or listen up to a lesson on furniture? In this podcast, learn by taking a trip to a furniture shop and picking out what you like, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0274

In this lesson, you're going to learn how to ask people's weekend plans and how to say Häagen-Dazs in Chinese. See if you can spot it in the dialogue. Let's check it out! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4299

You know all the terms, from “bun in the oven” to “pregos,” so why not add another phrase to that wicked repertoire, and learn it in Mandarin? In this podcast, learn how to ask someone how far along they are, and to congratulate them. (For premium subscribers, we’ll also teach you how to apologize profusely for asking someone who isn’t, when she’s due.) Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0269

More “Traveler’s Audio Phrase Book” phrases in Mandarin Chinese for you. In this podcast, we tackle arrivals. When your loyal taxi man gets you where you want to go, safe and sound, what’s left to do? Think you can ignore this lesson and get by with a simple point and “okay”? Nǎo zi huài le! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0065

过/過/guò is a past experience marker in Chinese, but what does that mean, and how do we use it in conversation? Listen to this dialogue about a friend asking about a trip to Beijing, and whether of not they've had the experience of eating the famous Beijing Roast Duck. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/3016

Another useful lesson for your “Traveler’s Audio Phrase Book”, in this podcast we assist you in using Mandarin Chinese to suggest a route to take to your taxi driver. Unimportant, you might think? Try going from Beijing to Shanghai on the service road instead of the highway! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0062

Yes, we know you’re going to make your voice sound like the guy in the film when you say “you can do it!”--and that’s okay. What’s not okay is getting discouraged (and in a language of 4 tones & 50,000 characters, it can happen). So how ‘bout a podcast with a Mandarin Chinese lesson on helping that friend out with a few words of encouragement? Go for it! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0266

We all know that humans can't live without snacks...uhh...no, I mean food. So knowing how to order food and knowing what the server says are really essential. Let's check out the lesson and try the sentences in the lesson in your daily life. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4296

While you might underestimate a lesson on lipstick, eye shadow, etc, you’d be surprised how relaxing it is to put on after a long day at the office. In this podcast, Jenny (one of the lucky ones who doesn’t need it) teaches Ken (more of a “winter”) all about cosmetics, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0262

You’ve used the last lesson on taxis to get into a cab (or put your headphones in the ears of an unsuspecting driver), but now what? Let him take you to where he thinks you need to go (read: every tourist spot known to man)? In this podcast, we’ll help you navigate as a Mandarin Chinese speaking back-seat driver. He won’t dare give you the run around. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0053

In Chinese, you often encounter single characters that have multiple related meanings. This has the potential to confuse learners because sometimes it is hard to make connections between component characters and their meanings within multiple-character words. That's why we created this Character Mind Map series, where we focus on characters and the words they make up. Today, we're talking about 老 and all the interesting words using this character. Let's check them out! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4368

We assume that, as a beginner, deciphering the schedule for the airport bus might be just a little stressful, so put off breaking into that duty-free you bought for 10 minutes or so and get yourself far, far away from the mayhem that is an Asian airport. In this podcast, you will learn to ask where to catch a taxi, in Mandarin Chinese, as well as some directional words to help you find your way there. Then, sit back and enjoy the ride! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0050

Despite many an inter-office email on “please don’t make the intros your own therapy” we simply cannot ignore today’s topic and the fact that Ken has yet to return our favorite Sharpie pen. Listen in to this podcast for a Mandarin Chinese lesson on borrowing and returning. We promise—no moralizing. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0259

In this newbie lesson, we are looking for some common office supplies, and in doing so, you have to learn how to use the sentence structure 没...了. I know what you're thinking, "The pen is out of...water? That's just bad English". I assure you that it's not a typo, but a way to help you remember how to express "The pen is out of ink" in Chinese. Let's check out today's lesson! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4293

We know how much you hate losing things (mind, especially), and we do too. We also know that if you don’t have your glasses, you can’t read these Pulitzer Prize worthy intros, so should you find yourself in a situation where you can’t see, and the only people around you speak Mandarin, in about 15 minutes, you’ll be equipped. In this podcast, learn how to say you can’t find something, using Mandarin Chinese, and you’ll be set. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0254

In this newbie lesson, we're going to show you how to ask for directions in Chinese, as well as how to say all the different directions, let's get started! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4286

Not that we ever had friends calling our name from outside asking us to join the “cool kids” and play, but with our “cool listeners only” rule firmly in effect, we thought we’d teach you. In this podcast, Jenny brings back fond childhood memories while at the same time, peeling back the scab of Ken’s. In this podcast, learn a conversation between a parent and child in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0250

In this Newbie lesson, Joe and Joy will show us a catchy slogan which would come in handy when you’re crossing the streets, and we’re also going to learn some vocabulary about traffic lights and transportation! Fasten your seat belt and check out this video! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4277

A few subway tips you might not be aware of: 1. The process of letting those on the subway off before boarding has not yet caught on; 2. Mobile ring tones are downloaded so owner and train neighbors can hear – meaning you’ll be treated to 90 seconds of a Backstreet Boy weeping; and 3. The process of letting those on the subway off before boarding has (still) not yet caught on. Now – we know you’re patient, but for that friend of yours, here’s a “strong” way of telling someone to immediately refrain from their present shenanigans. In this podcast, learn such useful phrases as “you’re so annoying”, and “I can’t take it!” in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0245

In this lesson, Joe and Lyn will show you a useful sentence to politely turn down someone’s invitation to a meal, and you'll also learn how to express feeling hungry or thirsty in Chinese! Let's check it out! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4273

"LaoWise” is a ChinesePod series aimed at aiding expats in China. She might be all of 5’2” and 50 – but those knuckles dig deep into the arch of your foot and you can either put on a brave face or tell her it feels like tiny hammers… In this podcast, we’ll teach you how to say “a little harder”, or the more likely to be used “a little lighter” in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0241

You might look the part, you might sound the part, but you’re not actually Chinese. So how would you go about telling someone that although you might sound like a native speaker (hopefully!), you’re not from China? Ken knows – he gets it all the time. Listen to this podcast to learn how to clarify where you are from, using Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0343

In our previous newbie tone change series, we have introduced the tone change rules for 不, 一, two third tones, and three third tones. Just like many other aspects in the Chinese language, tone changes are more nuanced than the rules you see in textbooks. That's why for the elementary tone change series, we decided that we would reinforce the rules with the help of dialogues that you hear in everyday conversations. Practice and familiarize yourselves with the sounds, and you'll be a tone master in no time! In this episode, we're going to learn and practice the tone change rules for consecutive third tones through a conversation between a couple. Let's check it out right now! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4363

As mentioned previously, uttering “xiexie” and “nihao” seem to automatically put you in the bracket of “fluent”, meaning they’re going to speak to you in a normal (read: fast) speed. So learning how to tell someone in Mandarin Chinese to “slow it down a bit” in this podcast just might save you from having to admit that you’re actually not quite that fluent yet. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0338

With the, ahem, “affordability” of DVD’s here, you might find yourself three seasons into a show you’ve never even heard of (see: “The Pretender”) and not wanting to go all the way downstairs and 50 feet to the right. So, you either snack on those cold chicken feet your neighbor gave you, or you order in. In this podcast, learn how to order take-out in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0236

I know what you're thinking, "Is this a lesson about Chinese Kung Fu?" Well, not really, sorry for the misleading thumbnail. Instead in this lesson, we're going to show you how to rush your driver in a taxi, and a very common word for expressing "Oh I'm finished!" in Chinese. "But...What about the master?" That's another mystery we're going to solve. Check out the video and find out yourself! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4234

Oh, it will happen – right after the cab driver who you just told “I don’t speak Chinese” starts drawing Chinese characters on the window with his hand. It’s the “tone correction” sit-down. Get used to it now, with this podcast giving you a Mandarin Chinese lesson in a tone correction. Forget those “ma/ma/ma/ma” classes. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0232

Quick – name things that you love! 1. ChinesePod 2. Cake That’s right! So what’s the only thing we could include to make this a very special day? How about taking advantage of the coincidence of one of your hosts being born on this day? In this podcast, learn how to wish someone a Happy Birthday! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0333

Chengyu are Chinese idioms that consist of four characters. Although they originate from classical Chinese, Chengyu remain as an important aspect in both spoken and written language. They may seem erratic and confusing to you at first since they don’t follow the usual sentence order and their meanings depend heavily on context. But don’t worry, in this Chengyu series, we will introduce simple Chengyu made up with all the characters that you already knew, and you can infer the actual meaning by looking at the separate characters! In this lesson, let’s take a look at three Chengyu with numbers 九 (nine) and 十 (ten) in them! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4356

If you were that kid in school who hated sharing, then we strongly suggest hypnotherapy before attending a meal here. Food, laughs and sometimes even a bottle of the ole’ baijiu are passed out among the present…which is fine, until Mr. Food-in-his-teeth mistakes your glass for his. Perhaps this podcast with a Mandarin Chinese lesson on getting straight whose glass is whose would be appreciated. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0329

Oh sure – you come over with a good 6 inches on the average Chinese person, thinking that half-a-foot will make you the leader in FAT (Food Acquisition Tolerance), but that egg you’re eyeing is about to be on your face. They can put it away; you can’t. So either concede culinary conquest, or hide behind that doggy bag. You don’t know how to ask for one in Mandarin? We do. Listen to this podcast to learn how. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0217

In today's lesson, we're going to show you how to ask others about their ability, and how to express (or show off) that you're really good at something, let's check out the lesson! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4227

Yes – we’ve prepared you for the language side of things, but there are some situations that just can’t be prepared for (see: using an “Eastern toilet” in a cocktail dress). So perhaps being able to react appropriately would at least slow down that rush of red to your cheeks? In this podcast, we’ll aid you in admitting embarrassment in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0214

Even if you’re going to get by for the first while learning a new language using the universal language, charades, you’ll love to learn these initial basic actions in Mandarin Chinese, just in case they can’t guess. In this podcast, follow along with some basic action words in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0323

With your “I Climbered The Grate Well” t-shirt and dual-fisted approach to chopsticks, it should come as no shock that you’re not blending in as much as you’d like…so perhaps you could tell them which faraway land you come from that uses forks. In this podcast, learn how to tell someone in Mandarin Chinese which country you come from. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0223

So, you’re thirsty… for water. Now, believe it or not, some shopkeepers will give you tea when you ask for water. In fact, others will even offer up OJ! But you need some H20 and you need it now! Parch no more – it’s a ChinesePod podcast to quench that burning throat…and desire to…(ahem)…learn Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0316

Fact: Should you ever get away to the gorgeous town of Qingdao, you might be amazed at how many people aren’t on the beach during the day. Tan is most certainly *not* the new black here (read: umbrellas held while cycling). So, in this podcast, learn how to ask for sunscreen, using Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0203

It’s hard to keep that poker face when you face your Mandarin speaking opponents, tongue-tied. So, before you sit down to a card game, listen to this podcast on playing cards. Learn to invite some pals to put their money where their mouths are…in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0304

We don’t allow ugly (on the inside) people to listen (work here, yes, but not listen), so of course, when you come here to visit us, you will end up being asked out (not the other way around, of course). So, despite us never having done this on the first date before, in this podcast we’ll forgo all usual standards and give you a Mandarin Chinese lesson on the romantic meet-up. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0197

If it’s not obvious already -- we’re nerds. Nerdy enough to spend far too much money on a sound effects CD. So simply bear with us in this podcast as we listen to a door and teach you the exciting actions relating to the comings and goings through a door, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0301

In a land of Taoism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Islam – and now Christianity – a quick sermon on how to identify your own religion might help. In this podcast you will learn how to ask about someone’s religion, and also to talk about going to church, using Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0192

You might find yourself chuckling so loud at the “No Drunkards or Psychos” rule in the back of Shanghai taxis that you forget to tell the driver where to stop. So how can you? It has something do with listening to (another) brilliant lesson by ChinesePod. That’s us. In this podcast take your taxi driver Mandarin Chinese banter to the next level. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0290

A few things you can’t live without upon arriving: 1. Toilet paper (oh – you laugh now, but trust us) 2. ChinesePod 3. A mobile phone …now, we hope the first two are self-explanatory, and about the 3rd – it’s all pay-as-you-go, so in this podcast we tender a lesson in Mandarin Chinese on “topping up” that phone. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0189

When it’s snowing out and finally realize that the reason there is no thermostat in your apartment is because there is actually no central heating, you’re gonna want to be able to find the words to whine about it. In this podcast, learn how to talk about being cold, in Mandarin Chinese—a subject that will come up often (that is when you’re not whining about being too hot). Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0286

Granted, even we can’t say “pipa” without giggling, and still feel the need to grab the “erhu” and do a scissor kick, but it won’t stop us from sitting Jenny down in this podcast and finding out why she doesn’t play the “gangqin”…all in the name of a Mandarin Chinese lesson on instruments. ChinesePod: the CBGB of podcasts. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0183

A man writes these intros. He doesn’t have a “special time” each month. He also realizes that being funny about needing feminine products isn’t funny. So he’ll simply say, “Here’s a Mandarin Chinese lesson on buying tampons.” He now feels uncomfortable. But hopes you find this podcast useful. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0281

Yes, using ChinesePod makes learning Mandarin a walk in the park – thank you. But this lesson is actually about walking in the park--not the in the metaphorical sense… ugh. Let’s make this easy for both of us: Here is a lesson on “Walking in the Park.” In this podcast you’ll learn to talk in Mandarin Chinese about things that people like you like to do in parks. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0178

You know (from watching Tom Hanks save the world again) that lemon or milk depends on the brew, but would you be able to order a proper cup of PG Tips in Mandarin? Let’s hope so…no, wait, instead of hoping, in this podcast let’s give you a Mandarin Chinese lesson on black and green tea, for your drinking pleasure. Whhhhooooooooeeeeeeeeee!!! (That was supposed to be a kettle sound effect). Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0277

Surely you never thought that having change could be so important. However, when you pull out one of the “hundred dollar bills” (not as much as it sounds), you just may be leaving without anything. In this podcast, you’ll learn how make sure you’ll be able to use your Mandarin Chinese to get all of your coin back… plus, we finally find out *why* Jenny loves chocolate so! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0177

They’re handed out for any and every reason…but what do you say? “Thanks” might seem a little bland, but then again, “WOW! You’ve such fine taste in paper!” might be a bit over the top. So then what? Better find out--you’ll be doing it about 12 times a day. In this podcast, learn to do the ol’ card exchange, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0272

A big house full of needles, beds with restraints and gloves that are lubed for a reason and you still think “winging it” at the hospital will get you by? For those less confident, it’s Dr. Ken and Nurse Jenny to the rescue, in a Mandarin Chinese lesson on visiting the man who didn’t attend eight years of medical school to be called “xiansheng”. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0170

Fact: no matter how prepared you are for it; you will take that piece of chicken and bite down hard. Fact: most chicken here comes still on the bone, no matter the size Fact: the face you make upon losing a molar will look like you don’t enjoy the meal Fact: we want you to make friends, not offend them. Fact: learning how to say “ouch” will help. In this podcast, learn how to express pain in Mandarin Chinese, as well as deal with the toothache aftermath of the episode with the chicken bone. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0263

Hard as it is to believe, as we look out our window to people doing tai chi in pajamas and 6:00am ballroom dancing with perfect hair--there might be a few “dullards” in your life. In this far from boring podcast, we liven things up a bit and help you to talk about someone boring, using Mandarin Chinese. You’ll never be bored again. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0167

Although we don’t foresee you—after being force-fed fruit an hour after a 14-dish meal (on those cool tables that spin around)—suffering from “hunger pains,” there might be a chance that your Chinese pal will say this to you…all the time. So, in this podcast, learn to talk about being hungry (or not), in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0257

Explaining in another language that you “have your father’s eyes” is dangerous, seeing as a simple grammatical mistake could mean you actually took them from him…which won’t get you invited to stay in anyone’s home. We don’t want things to be hazardous for you--thus the lesson. Learn how to talk about which parent a baby looks like…however, any comments about us having our mother’s hips will result in a beating. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0164

No, it’s not the Proclaimer’s one hit – nor is it Tinky Winky’s (too controversial, even for our Saturday Show) tune – but we do have an ole melody from yesteryear that tikes learn. We’re working on another…a little ChinesePod tune: We love you You love us Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0253

Few things in life are certain: 1. Life 2. Death 3. A non-English speaking barber might struggle in getting that “feathered” look you’re after So, it’s John and Jenny to the rescue, in the wind-blown form of a lesson on “getting a do”. In this podcast learn how to communicate some essentials to your friendly neighborhood barber cutting right there on the sidewalk in Mandarin Chinese. ChinesePod--not afraid to wear ours up, and away from the face. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0161

We don’t know if you heard but, (if not—were you on Mars?) Beijing’s got the Olympics here in 2008. So we thought we’d make sure you can hold your own in a conversation with a Beijingerrrr (those “r’s” will make sense when you come)—or anyone, for that matter—about all the excitement. In this podcast we teach you Olympic terms in Mandarin Chinese…and if you’re lucky, Jenny will be honest about her “shot-put” background. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0247

In Chinese, you often encounter single characters that have multiple related meanings. This has the potential to confuse learners because sometimes it is hard to make connections between component characters and their meanings within multiple-character words. That's why we created this Character Mind Map series, where we focus on characters and the words they make up.Today, we're talking about 蛋 and all the interesting words using this character. Let's check them out! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4350

Now you’ve used your Mandarin skills to find the hotel, check-in, order in some room service—but wait! There is something essential you forgot to learn how to say. In this podcast, we aid you in making a phone call to the front desk to ask for some essential items, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0242

In our previous newbie tone change series, we have introduced the tone change rules for 不, 一, two third tones, and three third tones. Just like many other aspects in the Chinese language, tone changes are more nuanced than the rules you see in textbooks. That's why for the elementary tone change series, we decided that we would reinforce the rules with the help of dialogues that you hear in everyday conversations. Practice and familiarize yourselves with the sounds, and you'll be a tone master in no time! In this episode, we're going to learn and practice the tone change rules for consecutive third tones through a conversation in a restaurant. Let's check it out right now! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4345

You just thought the “what’s that, what’s this” went out at 7 years old…wrong. From the moment you realize that 山 means (and looks like a) “mountain,” you’ll be hooked. You’ll want to learn more. We want to help. The world wants you to listen. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0239

Chengyu are Chinese idioms that consist of four characters. Although they originate from classical Chinese, Chengyu remain as an important aspect in both spoken and written language. They may seem erratic and confusing to you at first since they don’t follow the usual sentence order and their meanings depend heavily on context. But don’t worry, in this Chengyu series, we will introduce simple Chengyu made up with all the characters that you already knew, and you can infer the actual meaning by looking at the separate characters! In this lesson, let’s take a look at four Chengyu with numbers 七 (seven) and 八 (eight) in them! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4341

Let’s face it, all excuses aside, you learn Chinese to be cool – the same reason we buy gifts abroad for people, the same reason we send postcards. What’s that? You don’t know how to send a letter? By all means, let us help. In this podcast, come with us to the post office and learn how to mail a letter in China, using Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0235

Know the difference between “Wang Fu Jing” and “Nan Jing Lu”? In one place you can find “The Bund”, in the other you’ll eat a “bun”…know the towns we’re talkin’ bout (Willis)? The two centers of the middle country, of course! In this podcast, Ken and Jenny referee the Beijing VS. Shanghai rumble. You will learn to talk about China’s two most famous cities using Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0156

In Indonesia it’s “Bali Belly,” Mexico “Montezuma’s Revenge,” and in China… commonplace. There’s a good chance that despite how tasty those hairy crabs look (or not), your tummy might disagree. In this podcast learn how to express your stomach woes in Mandarin Chinese (You’ll notice we didn’t make this an intermediate lesson as *detail* isn’t needed). Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0229

The fact that ChinesePod’s size 12 foot gets laughed out of every shop in town should clue you into something…you’re big, they are not. Realizing that, we couldn’t pass on doing a lesson on a domicile being diminutive. In this podcast, learn how to talk about housing and the size thereof in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0153

Ask anyone who’s flown into Pudong Int’l Airport and we promise that the words “laid-back” and “relaxing” will never cross their lips. So should that suitcase full of Imodium AD and ChinesePod backup CDs go a-missing, this podcast will prepare you well. In this lesson you will learn how to say that you can’t find your luggage. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0226

We know all ChinesePod learners wanna look cool, so when we realized you might leave the house wearing something a little lacking that “je ne sais quoi”, we immediately put together a lesson to aid you with that conversation. You can’t have “ChinesePod” without “C-H-I-C”, so in this podcast learn all about what suits you, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0149

Things that will get you the best seat in the “jia”: 1. Saying “I love Yao Ming!” 2. Saying “I love Chinese food!” 3. Saying “I love China” So, for those who don’t know of giant basketball players, or who haven’t yet ventured out into the “hairy crab” food section, in this podcast we’ll make sure you know how to confess your love for the P.R.C. in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0221

Any one of us here will tell you the golden rule of dining: Never, we mean never, ask what kind of meat it is. So, should you care to counter that “Mystery Meat” with something that came from the earth, of course it’s ChinesePod to the rescue. In this podcast, we help you to learn how to use Mandarin Chinese to ask for something green--before you turn that same color. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0146

If your height, hair color, eyelashes, and big feet somehow don’t scare off the kiddo cowering behind his mother’s leg, you might find yourself with a new little friend. So either you confuse him even more by throwing in what you’ve learned up ‘til now (see: taxi lingo, mild insults) or ask him that age-old question that always gets you an answer in the form of fingers. In this podcast, you will learn how to use Mandarin Chinese to ask someone how old they are. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0218

Forget wedgies, spit-balls and unsuccessfully trying to hold number one until after nap-time; if you can’t find your class, it’s going to be a bad year. In this podcast, Jenny (head of the class) and Ken (sat at the back of class) give you a Mandarin Chinese lesson in helping you find your classroom. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0143

Any stroll down Wangfujing or Nanjing Lu will tell you the shops aren’t the only ones selling. Constant “hallo!’s” tailed with “bag?” “watch?” and “DVD?” will follow you no matter what you do to escape. So, either learn how to walk faster, master the “laowai lookaway,” or simply find a brilliant podcast that will teach you “no, thank you”, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0213

In Chinese, you often encounter single characters that have multiple related meanings. This has the potential to confuse learners because sometimes it is hard to make connections between component characters and their meanings within multiple-character words. That's why we created this Character Mind Map series, where we focus on characters and the words they make up.Today, we're talking about 包 and all the interesting words using this character. Let's check them out! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4327

We know you would *never* lower yourself to buying a “Rolax” here and passing it off as an original for someone’s birthday, but we’re sure that “friend of yours” will. So how to politely suggest that the opening bid might be a bit out of your range? A lesson on acting incensed by the price could save you a few “jiao.” In this podcast, learn how to tell someone “it’s too expensive” in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0209

We’ve helped you get through that initial “hi”, “thanks” and “where is the toilet” (all you need, really), but you’d like to stop talking about “hi”, “thanks” and “where is the toilet” (your friends are bored). So why not ask them about their interests? In this podcast, Ken and Jenny take time from their hobbies (walking on the beach, talking about feelings) to help you learn how to ask others theirs, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0141

You walk in, use your previously learned ChinesePod lessons to give the secretary your name and a quick “ni hao.” She does the same. What comes next? Most would think a reason for being there, but unless you thrive on those uncomfortable international moments (see: lesson on “Where is the Toilet Paper”), pay attention to this podcast, wherein you will learn how to tell someone that you’ve arrived for an interview, using Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0200

“In the sky there’s heaven, on the earth there’s Suzhou”. Coming in as the 335th city the Chinese call “Venice of the East”, it would be a shame not to spend a few days here. In this podcast, Jenny and Ken maneuver you through the canals of a Mandarin Chinese lesson on buying a train ticket to Suzhou. Ciao! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0139

Every once and a while, we like to give you options, and today is no exception. If you want to ask someone, “how can I say this in Chinese?” you can either: 1. Point to the object, at yourself, say the object and then point to the Chinese person with you and wait; 2. Hold object up, shrug shoulders and wait; or 3. Say, “How do you say this in Chinese? (in Chinese)” Again, no pressure – what we like about you is the person inside. But if you want to know, listen to this podcast, you won’t be sorry. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0196

You come here, you set up shop, even hire an assistant who’s nice enough to show up 45 minutes late everyday allowing you to ease in to your day. You think you’re scolding him by saying “You!”, “Here!”, “9:45!”, but he knows of your ChinesePod addiction and figures you’re simply practicing what you’ve learned. So either you continue this standard practice, or you listen to this lesson on being late and have a lil’ “face the music” meeting on Monday. In this podcast, learn how to say “you’re late” in Mandarin Chinese (with a little more angry tone of voice to get the message across). Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0134

For a million yuan, a ChinesePod pop quiz: Q. You could be asked 2 things at the cash register. One is “paper or plastic,” and the other is “_________ or _________” (answer rhymes with “cash or credit”). In this podcast, we’ll aid you in adding to that credit card debt you keep kidding yourself that you’ll pay off someday. You’ll learn how to say “charge it!” in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0191

No doubt if you’re learning Mandarin, you’ve seen a picture of Nanjing Lu or Wangfujing. Now, very quickly, name three adjectives to describe the scene. Were “laid-back”, “relaxing” and “chilled out” any of your picks? That’s what we thought; so perhaps now a lesson on time in Mandarin Chinese would be very timely…In this podcast, learn how to talk about how long it takes you to do something, as well as how to tell someone you don’t have any time…now, STOP PUSHING! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0131

We know that deep down, there’s a person in ya that wants to combine “On the Road” with “Journey to the West”, and we think that’s just great. But the “lu” less traveled might be a road un-traveled should you be unable to get around. In this podcast, we’ll get you on your way, learning a lesson in Mandarin Chinese about the different modes of transportation in the big land. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0186

We have recently come under attack for being too “puppy dogs and ice cream” (meaning you’ve not heard of the “no eye-contact” rule for our interns), so to prove to you that we are, in fact, bu-bu-bu-bu-bad, we give a lesson in Mandarin Chinese on not liking someone. In this podcast you will learn how to say that you don’t like someone, and get a chance to vent about whats driving you crazy about them. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0118

There’s a good chance that you’ll come here with loads of cash and leave with none (see: Qipu Lu, the new “hot spot” to shop), meaning those final few nights might be spent in a “starless abode.” Because ChinesePod loves you, we want you to be able to find the best of the… erm, lesser, and offer up a lesson on finding a hostel. In this podcast you will learn how to ask how to find a hostel, using Mandarin Chinese. Plus, those iPod earplugs work great for drowning out that “dorm ambience” as well. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0184

Now we know we should “neither a borrower nor lender be”. However, we also know that “a friend in need is a friend indeed”. So what are you gonna do when that friend forgets to pay you back? In this podcast, Ken and Jenny talk all about borrowing and teach you how to use Mandarin Chinese to give a friend a friendly reminder to pay up. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0115

Things that will get your photo taken in China: - Having blonde (“yellow”) hair - Having hair on your arms - Using a mobile phone - Sitting - Being …so you might as well return the favor – nicely, of course. In this lesson, we zoom in for a tight shot of pictorial verbiage. You will learn how to ask someone if you can take a photo, using Mandarin Chinese. ChinesePod, you’re the MAN(darin)! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0180

You “always” listen to ChinesePod, you “usually” practice everything you learn every day, you “never” miss a podcast and you “sometimes” brag about us to your friends. In this podcast, learn about adverbs of frequency in Mandarin Chinese. You will use them very “often”! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0112

In a country known for its “Beijing Duck”, Inner “Mongolian Hot Pot” and “Pork Dumplings,” should you not be a carnivore, you’ll need to know how to say “vegetarian”–a lot vegetable dishes even have a smattering of meat. In this podcast, we help you learn how to explain in Mandarin Chinese that you don’t eat anything with a face. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0175

So, we actually tried to buy you a keyboard (with the “sick” sound effects) from “Ferris Buller’s Day Off” and send it to you to make your phone call to the boss sound more believable, but instead got you the next best thing: a lesson on “Calling in Sick”. In this podcast you’ll learn how to use Mandarin Chinese to tell your boss you can’t come to work today because you have the flu. (Excuses for why the boss saw you at happy hour the same day to follow). Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0111

If you visit Shanghai, we expect a visit. Here’s all you have to do: 1. Take the Maglev magnetic train to Longyang Lu (50 yuan) 2. Take Subway Line 2 to People’s Square-change to Line 1 (4rmb) 3. Exit Huang Pi Nan Lu, take a taxi to Huangpi and Jianguo Lu …easy, right? You betcha--as long as you have 54 kuai. What? You forgot to exchange your money? To think that’s what kept you from meeting Rian the Intern. Tsk. Listen to this podcast to learn how to use your Mandarin Chinese to exchange that cash. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0172

You go to the States, it’s a cup of Joe. The English will pour you a “cuppa” and here in Shanghai it’s green tea. But, what happens if you don’t drink any of them? A universal shaking of the head, or a polite way to ask for something else? In this podcast Ken (caffeineicus tomuchicus) and Jenny (more of a “Dragon Well” type) help you use Mandarin Chinese to order your “bevvie” with class. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0105

Ask anyone who’s braved an hour long subway ride at rush hour here and you’ll understand the need of finding, and securing (politely) a seat. In this podcast, we walk you through a Mandarin Chinese lesson on sitting down. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0168

Being spied on is no longer just a Dan Brown novel (or a Bush Cabinet agenda), so we hope you aren’t sending “romantic messages” to others from your work account. In fact, as this lesson on office policy states, you’re not paid to check your email all day (Chinesepod is okay, though. We asked). In this podcast, learn about chatting online in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0093

In the 80’s it was “Where’s the…”, in the 90’s it was “What’s For Dinner” and in the ummm…0’s, it’s the focus of our lesson. In this podcast, Ken and Jenny teach a Mandarin Chinese lesson dealing with carnivores and their preferences. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0155

Three things you don’t forget: 1. Anniversary 2. Mom’s Birthday 3. Listen to Chinesepod…Now, we can help you with two of the three (sorry, you’re on your own with #1) today. In this podcast Ken (loves his mum) and Jenny (ài tā māma) hold your hand in talking about your mother’s birthday with a friend in Mandarin Chinese. You’re sure to never forget again!  Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0091

Wei?! Most likely, this is the word that will stick with you…all day…and night…even in your sleep. So what is it exactly? We’re not sure…and neither are the Chinese, but you still need to learn it…as well as phone basics. In this podcast you will learn how to say hello on the phone in Mandarin Chinese, as well as how to enquire if someone is in, and ask who is calling. And of course, not to be overlooked, how to say goodbye in Chinese as well! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0152

As much as some of us (Yankee) staff would have loved to translate the “gridiron” into Chinese, we cater to the other 98% of the world that calls soccer “football” and turn it into a lesson on football in Mandarin Chinese. In this podcast, Ken (An Irish Beckham) and Jenny (A Chinese Posh) also will throw in discussing other sports and the term “boring” for those that aren’t fanatics. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0089

In another addition to our “Baby Talk” series, Ken and Jenny talk this time about encouraging your little bundle of joy to eat something…or not. In this podcast, learn how to tell your baby to eat up, using Mandarin Chinese. As far as explaining why “fish at the table” and “fish in the bowl” are different, you’re on your own. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0145

While “Peking Opera” is the Chinese equivalent of haggis (few really like it, but you kind of have to try it), the rest of the music scene here will always be a conversation piece. In this Mandarin Chinese lesson podcast, Ken and Jenny teach you how to be your own conversation piece: to talk about what you like to do, and what your interests are. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0087

Studies show our personalities are formed before the age of four. We at ChinesePod want you to raise a happy, confident little future Chinese speaker…so listen in to this lesson as Jenny teaches all about praising that little whippersnapper. In this podcast, learn how to tell your squishy cute baby just how cute they really are, using Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0140

What could you use more than some more useful phrases in Mandarin Chinese? Well, even better than that, we’ve got some excellent high-frequency language you will wonder how you ever did without (i.e. Where is the washroom?). Listen in on this podcast, and learn some more important and useful questions and responses in Mandarin Chinese. Alas, who else could you count on to educate you in these sorts of “delicate” matters? Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0081

We were on our way to the studio when our “authentic” Tag Heuer stopping working making us stop abruptly in our “realistic” Nike’s to reach into our “genuine” Prada (man) bag to check the time on our phone…which turned out to be broken. In this podcast, Ken (all real, he claims) and Jenny (unreal, you declare) mend a Mandarin Chinese lesson on things breakin’. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0136

So you’ve finally made it to China and with what’s left of the money you spent on taking us for “báijiǔ”, you decide to get an apartment overlooking the Summer Palace. Out of reach? Not at all…but you might want to be able to tell the landlord your basics…unless you don’t mind an “Eastern Toilet”. So, listen in to this podcast and learn to talk about the type of apartment you would like, using Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0079

You can go to iTunes, subscribe to an RSS feed and arrange everything all by yourself? You’re all growed up, aren’t ya? Now, tell us that in Mandarin and move to the front of the class. In this podcast, Ken (on a time out) and Jenny (a gold star) forego nap time to teach you to talk about all things “downloadable” in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0133

If “King and Country” are the loves in England, then so are “Mao and Mouth” here in China. In this podcast, Ken and Jenny walk you through a salivating lesson concerning eating in China…and a great dialogue in Mandarin Chinese which leads to the question of whether or not you know how to use chopsticks….which in turn leads to a tale of Ken being cheered on by dozens of strangers in a restaurant. It has to be ChinesePod. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0075

With a menu full of never before encountered items and a passion for all things oil/MSG, you might end up with the lesser-know “Beijing Belly”. So unless you care to “assume the position” in an off-color game of charades, you might benefit from a lesson on “not feeling well”. In this podcast, you will learn how to tell someone you aren’t feeling well, using Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0130

With Bosnia erecting their own tribute to Hong Kong’s “Little Dragon”, we wanted to do the same. In this podcast, Ken and Jenny (mainland celebrities in their own minds) give you the scoop in Mandarin Chinese…good for you, but annoying for us, as this means Ken spends the rest of the day whacking interns with his nun chucks. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0059

The last thing you would want to do is insult your kind host…but where to learn about the do’s and don’ts of Chinese etiquette? In this podcast, Ken and Jenny nicely promenade you through a cultural Mandarin Chinese lesson on Chinese manners. Learn how to be polite—Chinese-style! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0124

We know you listen while you’re on the subway, but we’ll put our China commute up against yours any day. In this podcast, we’ll take advantage of your gridlock to teach you “gridlock”. You’ll also learn to talk about how you get to work every day, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0057

In the labyrinth of an average Chinese city, it’s easy for the unexpected to happen, and cause you to run a little behind. So now that you’ve found that taxi, how to tell him to put the petal to the medal? Two options: a) Make a “wrrrrooooooommmmmm” sound and stab the air with your index finger b) Pay attention to this lesson on asking the driver to hurry In this podcast, learn how to say you are in a hurry, and how to ask the driver to drive faster (ChinesePod disclaimer: use this Mandarin at your own risk!). Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0121

Zen might be of Asian design, but it takes a back-seat when someone cuts in line. In this podcast, Ken and Jenny lower their professional integrity by teaching some mild ways of insulting someone in Mandarin Chinese and the importance of never, ever wearing a green hat…ever. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0055

Remember back in the day (insert nostalgic music here) when a tank of gas cost ya a nickel, “George W” referred to “Washington” and “chatting” was something done face-to-face? In this lesson, we tackle just that (the last one, as none of us drive here and another one of us is from Texas), online chatting. In this podcast learn about getting online and chatting, amongst other hobbies, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0119

Boasting 1.4 billion people, needless to say China’s a big place…with many different types of weather. This podcast will not only teach you weather basics in Mandarin Chinese, but also how to plan accordingly. What else are you going to talk about with the driver while heading to work the same time as aforementioned numbers are? Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0049

No doubt these questions will be among the top 3 you’ll need to memorize…here they are, in no particular order: 1. What’s your name? 2. Where are you from? 3. Have you ever had the pleasure of meeting that clever “laowai” that writes the wonderfully entertaining introductions to ChinesePod? …your name you know, and until we have the pleasure, the only thing left is your ole stompin’ ground. In this podcast, Ken and Jenny talk teach you how to talk about where you call “jiā.” Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0113

In Chinese, you often encounter single characters that have multiple related meanings. This has the potential to confuse learners because sometimes it is hard to make connections between component characters and their meanings within multiple-character words. That's why we created this Character Mind Map series, where we focus on characters and the words they make up.Today, we're talking about 出 and all the interesting words using this character. Let's check them out! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4315

“Do a lesson on University major’s” you said. “Okay, here you go” Chinesepod replied. (3 weeks past). “Do another lesson on university majors” you demanded. “We already did one” we responded. “Do it NOW” you shouted. “You’re not the boss of me” we informed. “Yes I am” came the curt retort…so now we see who’s bossing who…with lesson #2 on uni majors…meanie. Listen in on this podcast to learn how to ask someone about their major in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0110

Chengyu are Chinese idioms that consist of four characters. Although they originate from classical Chinese, Chengyu remain as an important aspect in both spoken and written language. They may seem erratic and confusing to you at first since they don’t follow the usual sentence order and their meanings depend heavily on context. But don’t worry, in this Chengyu series, we will introduce simple Chengyu made up with all the characters that you already knew, and you can infer the actual meaning by looking at the separate characters! In this lesson, let’s take a look at three Chengyu with number 五 (five) in them! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4304

Think the Von Trapp’s liked to sing? That’s nothing! Wait until you get the Chinese invite to listen…which is anytime. So, what do you do after someone gives you a tune, offer up the same “thanks” you give a taxi driver or a proper “you sing very well”? In this podcast Ken and Jenny compose a lesson for the ages. You’ll learn how to compliment someone on their singing using Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0109

In today's lesson, we're talking about 面 and all the interesting words using this character. Let's check them out! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4303

With so many people adopting from the mainland and Taiwan, it should come With so many people adopting babies from China, it should come as no surprise that we have received an abundance of requests for “baby lingo”. Here is a podcast on some sweet and cuddly talk to comfort the child who has just been introduced to your family. In this lesson, Ken and Jenny walk you through your first (comforting) words in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0108

The COVID-19 pandemic is sweeping across the globe right now. Although 病毒 - virus, 无情 - doesn’t discriminate, 人 - humanity, 有情 - has love for one another. Through sharing the love, we can help each other out and get over with the pandemic swiftly. Watch to learn more about general newbie vocabularies, as well as phrases to use amid such tough times! All in all, everyone 加油! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4295

You were *this* close to taking the Trans-Siberian Line from Beijing to Moscow (8 time zones!), *this* close from starting at Tiananmen Square and ending in Red Square…and what stopped you? You didn’t know how to ask for a ticket! Let’s remedy that today, shall we? All aboard, next stop: Chuga-chuga, chuga-chuga, Chinesepod! (Make a fist, put your arm at a 45 degree angle and pull down). In this podcast you will learn how to enquire about train tickets in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0103

In our previous newbie tone change series, we have introduced the tone change rules for 不, 一, two third tones, and three third tones. Just like many other aspects in the Chinese language, tone changes are more nuanced than the rules you see in textbooks. That's why for the elementary tone change series, we decided that we would reinforce the rules with the help of dialogues that you hear in everyday conversations. Practice and familiarize yourselves with the sounds, and you'll be a tone master in no time! In this episode, we're going to learn and practice the tone change rules for 不 [bù] through a phone conversation inside a noisy club. Let's check it out right now! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4292

So… ummmm, hi… I was…ahem, wondering (cough) if you… ahhhh, are doing…anything tonight? Think that’s hard in your own language? Try it in Mandarin Chinese! In this socially awkward podcast, Ken (never does this, honest) and Jenny (doesn’t like you in that way) teach you how to invite someone to a meal. Once you put all the effort into this lesson, how can they say no?! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0097

In Chinese, you often encounter single characters that have multiple related meanings. This has the potential to confuse learners because sometimes it is hard to make connections between component characters and their meanings within multiple-character words. That's why we created this Character Mind Map series, where we focus on characters and the words they make up. Today, we're talking about 走 and all the interesting words using this character. Let's check them out! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4287

You could try and mime your way through it to ask for someone’s email address (piano fingers and tongue clicking). You could simply call them every time you needed to speak. Or, you could just listen to this lesson, where you will learn how to ask for someone’s email address in Mandarin Chinese. Good choice, now, you can use that money you save on long-distance phone bills to buy us presents (we’re a 33×34). Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0094

Chengyu are Chinese idioms that consist of four characters. Although they originate from classical Chinese, Chengyu remain as an important aspect in both spoken and written language. They may seem erratic and confusing to you at first since they don’t follow the usual sentence order and their meanings depend heavily on context. But don’t worry, in this Chengyu series, we will introduce simple Chengyu made up with all the characters that you already knew, and you can infer the actual meaning by looking at the separate characters! In this lesson, let’s take a look at three Chengyu with numbers 三 (three) and 四 (four) in them! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4283

Think you don’t need to talk about the internet? You’re positive? Okay, tell you what, think very, very carefully about your life sans web…no email, no news, no CHINESEPOD, ye gods! In this podcast, Ken (An Irish Spicoli) and Jenny (Our Little Surfer Girl) teach you how to talk in Mandarin Chinese about surfing the internet. The Chinese love their electronics and you’ve got to fit in! Listen and this lesson will teach you how. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0092

In today's lesson, we are teaching you how to ask questions using the A not A sentence structure. Practice this structure in daily conversations, but be careful not to ask too many questions in a roll though, you might upset people like the restaurant owner in today's dialogue! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4262

Well, now that you’re a Chinese student, chances are you’re gonna be hangin’ with other students, so how to get in on the lingo? In this podcast Ken and Jenny take time from rushing poor pledges to lecture you in a lesson in Mandarin Chinese, teaching you how to ask someone what they are studying. And you’ll also learn how to tell someone what you want to be when you grow up. “Thank you ChinesePod, may I have another?!” Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0090

In Chinese, you often encounter single characters that have multiple related meanings. This has the potential to confuse learners because sometimes it is hard to make connections between component characters and their meanings within multiple-character words. That's why we created this Character Mind Map series, where we focus on characters and the words they make up. Today, we're talking about 还 and all the interesting words using this character. Let's check them out! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4258

Yes, we realize that the only two things you are ever pronounced in life are “dead” and “man and wife”, but if you think that the 51% split rate is going to sway us from a lesson on the betrothed, then we’d better site irreconcilable differences right now. In this podcast, we unify spoken Mandarin Chinese about marriage/divorce with the English explanation…a match made in the Temple of Heaven. Mazel tov. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0088

In this dialogue, a concerned flatmate checks in on their friend, asking if they have eaten a proper meal and how much coffee they've had. It seems the flatmate just wants to stay in and sleep. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4040

99.9% of us eat Chinese food before ever coming to China. So it should come as no surprise that 99.9% of everything in China revolves around a meal. In this podcast, Ken and Jenny bake up a tasty session on eating, or not, in Mandarin Chinese. In this lesson, you will hear how to invite someone to dinner, and also how to turn down politely, using the oldest excuse in the book. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0083

Learn how to list common items you might find in your bag, as well as how to say a sweet and savoury cookie. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4012

So you’ve moved up into the Basic Level and you’re feeling pretty good about yourself…so good, you ask your non-English speaking Chinese friend how they’re doing. “Well”, they answer in Mandarin, “horse-horse, tiger-tiger”. Make sense to you? Fortunately, it does to Ken and Jenny. In this podcast, they’ll explain that aforementioned phrase, along with many other useful ones to keep in your pocket…just make sure to take them out before putting them in the washing machine. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0080

Learn how to talk about Mongolian cuisine, travel in Mongolia, and discuss what you've done when travelling. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4008

No doubt you’ve been thinking about throwing that fab “Chinese Dinner Party” so as to impress friends and family with your Mandarin skills. You can keep that egg in the wok and off of your face by listening to this lesson about explaining your culinary ability. In this podcast you will learn how to talk about your specialties, and learn about a well-loved Chinese dish. And if you’re no Iron Chef, you will learn how to ask someone to cook for you next time! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0058

In this lesson, you will learn how to ask someone how many people work in a company from different nations. You'll learn some useful terms for nationalities, as well as ways to describe numbers and amounts of things in more detail as well as estimates and approximations. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4002

With the northern tip touching Russia, and the southern hitting Thailand, it should come as no surprise that China, and her people, have much to talk about when it comes to climate…do you? In this podcast, you will learn to talk about the weather and temperatures in Mandarin Chinese. “Weather-Ken” and “Weather-Jen” predict a downpour of excellent Mandarin followed by light winds of Shanghai-sent self-confidence. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0061

Your bike is broken so you need to take public transport to school instead. Learn how to ask how long it takes to ride the subway from your home to school, as well as comparing it to riding the bus. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/3095

Not that we’d ever take you for a impostor, but just in case you might need to talk your way out of something defend yourself or simply argue…all the time…like my ex…ahem. Anyway, it’s Ken and Jenny to the rescue in this lesson. In this podcast you will learn some important phrases like “you’re lying”, and “it wasn’t me!” Well, maybe you won’t need to use these phrases yourself, but they will help with understanding all those Chinese soap operas you’re likely to become addicted to. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0064

This lesson is all about how to use the "if__then" conditional structure (如果__的话 rúguǒ__dehuà). For example, if it rains, what shall we do? In today's lesson, they are trying to make dinner plans, but don't want to eat seafood again so instead suggest a picnic. But what if it rains? Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/3076

We finally “bow to the Yao” and teach you how to talk about the sport or hobby you like. In this podcast you will learn how to talk about your hobbies with someone in Mandarin Chinese. And if you’d rather watch than play, this lesson will teach you how to say that as well. Give me a “C”! Give me a “hinesepod”! Hurrah! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0052

This elementary lesson is about asking for directions, and enquiring about how long a journey will take. Very useful for the travellers amongst you. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/3065

So someone asks you what you've been up to. Be the life of the party and tell them "I've been studying Chinese"…in Mandarin!!! How many cool points awarded to your side? Uber…at least in our book. In this podcast, Ken and Jenny help out in explaining your studies. You will get the chance opine on whether you think studying Chinese is easy or difficult. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0047

Service charges (tipping) is becoming more and more common, but sometimes it can he hard to know if it's enforced. In this lesson, the service charge is "clearly" written on the blackboard on the wall of the restaurant, but the friend is complaining that the words are too small, and he cannot see them. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/3057

Not a normal podcast, but one you’ll memorize word-for-word and print out as well. In this podcast, our producer, Aric, abuses his power (which we tell him he has) by stopping by to get his American Chinese menu translated into Mandarin Chinese…use this lesson to get some of these dishes down and impress the entire restaurant back home. Not to mention impress your growing belly. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0044

In this lesson we look at the important phrase, "I can't afford it" (买不起 mǎi bù qǐ). In today's dialogue, two friends are walking around an expensive department store, complaining that everything is so expensive, and that they cannot afford to buy anything, even the cake! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/3053

We can only ignore so many requests for “chat-up lines” until we break…which we did today. In this soon-to-be most popular lesson for our loyal podcast listeners, you will learn some nice compliments in Chinese to endear you to someone you have your eye on; and we will also give you some saucy lines in Mandarin Chinese to use at the pub this weekend…and withdraw from any consequences thereof. (Also included will be “Go away, you arrogant jerk!” Ouch.) Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0051

When travelling in an unfamiliar city, the transport network can be quite confusing. Learn how to ask passengers if you're heading in the right direction so that you don't miss your stop. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/3041

Cliché as it may be, a good “long time no see” does wonders for reconnecting with old “peng you”. In this podcast, we’re going to make you sound more like a local by sharing these tidbits, as well as a cooler way of saying “how are you” as well as “I’m fine” in Mandarin Chinese…we just keep on giving. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0045

When do you shower? In the morning or in the evening. In the East, it's common to shower once you get home for the day, and most people wouldn't dream of going to bed without first bathing. Learn useful ways to ask colloquial and relaxed questions about what someone has been doing with their weekend. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/3001

Now we like mahjong and karaoke as much as the next person, but unless you pay attention to this lesson about what other things people like to do on the weekends, you might just become a compulsive gambler and boozer. In this podcast, learn how to expand your horizons 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/0046

Granted, most dogs here look like they chase parked cars, but that doesn’t stop them from being a part of the family. In this podcast, learn how to talk to fellow pet-lovers about your pet, in Mandarin Chinese. Explaining to them that dogs actually *don’t* make the sound “wang-wang” is up to you. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0208

Every once and a while we veer away from our “normal programming” and offer up some lessons on high-frequency phrases in Chinese that you will use everyday. Today happens to be “once” and now is actually “in a while” so grab that “authentic” Rolex you bought near your hotel and join us for a podcast on telling time in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0122

As parents, there is always the unavoidable coming of age when we must explain to our children about "the birds and the bees". For those of us learning Mandarin Chinese, however, there is a simpler solution. In this podcast, learn an alternative and skillfully evasive (albeit not particularly politically correct) response to this age-old question, as answered by many Chinese parents to their beloved child's query of "Mommy, where did I come from?" (note to self: breaking the news should be done in as loving a tone as possible.) Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0534

Don’t get me wrong, your ability to say “chicken” and “noodles” is gold-star worthy, but if variety is the spice of life, then Chinese food is the spice rack. In this “tantalizing” podcast lesson we’ll help you order some traditional dishes in China in Mandarin Chinese…without looking at that picture menu. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0042

The character 会／會／huì can either mean "can" (a learned ability to do something) or "will" ( a future action or event happening). Knowing which one to use is all about context and the position in a sentence, and with a little bit of listening practice, will become second nature. Check out today's lesson to master the 会 character. You can and will do it! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/3006

With every 4th child born in the world being Chinese, there’s a good chance you’ll meet a few. In this podcast, we help you learn how to ask not only about names of new friends using Mandarin Chinese, but also about other information that might just get you an invite to that “famous restaurant” in town (word of warning: they all are famous). Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0150

In this lesson, we teach some great ways to make small talk in the elevator with your neighbors. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4033

Despite our professional image (ahem) we confess to laughing like schoolgirls anytime someone attempts to act out this phrase. So, listen in to this podcast and get the education in the things you really need to know in Mandarin Chinese. If we didn’t teach you, who would? Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0163

In today's elementary class we teach you lots of "time spent doing" sentences, for example, "I have been studying for X amount of time", or "Yesterday, I read my book until.... e.g: 昨天 我 看书 看到 9点 Time Phrase VO V 到 TIME Yesterday I read book, read until 9 o'clock Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4005

Despite the majority of our staff being passificus apatheticus when it comes to soccer football--we simply couldn’t ignore that World Cup thingy. In this podcast, Jenny, John and Aric teach “let’s go”, “great shot”, “REFEREE!!!”, and more, all in Mandarin Chinese. Now, if you’ll excuse us, there are some baseball reruns to catch. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0159

In this lesson, we hear a student compliment another student about their various accomplishments both academic and sporting. We also take a closer look at 得 (de) sentences where we turn adjectives into adverbs Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/3031

Fact: There are 1.4 billion people in China. Fact: You don’t read enough to understand the bus schedule Fact: This leaves you with the option of riding a bicycle or hopping on the back of an illegal motorcycle taxi. Fact: You might need to know how to talk about being nervous. In this podcast, Ken and Jenny hold your trembling hand through a lesson on the “shakes”, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0117

In this lesson, we teach you some words to do with items commonly brought on flights that are not allowed through security. Learn some key Chinese vocabulary to do with airport security and arguing with security. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4059

More “baby talk”… In this podcast, you will learn some more popular common phrases in Mandarin Chinese, such as: “Good boy/girl”, “Be careful!” and “Don’t be naughty”. Think these phrases are only for people adopting children? Listen closely and you’ll hear Jenny confess that her parents still use some of these on her! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0126

Spanish can be difficult for many learners, especially because of the need to be able to roll your tongue to produce the trill sound seen in many words. Listen to a dialogue about someone saying they can't speak Spanish, and the friend offering to teach them. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/3034

We always chuckle to think of the situations you found yourself in before ChinesePod came along…for instance: going to the zoo. While we don’t want to know how you indicated the red-bummed baboon, we would like to offer up a cognitive exercise lesson on identifying some animals in Mandarin Chinese by the sounds they make. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0346

In this lesson, we focus on the important ways to give directions verbs such as to come in, or to go out. We do this using the structure: Direction Verb 來／去. This structure is very high use, and important in situations such as greeting guests or going for a job interview. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/3061

“Some day, and that day may never come, I’ll call upon you”…if it’s good enough for Brando, its good enough for us. In this podcast Ken (an Irish Johnny Fontane) and Jenny (never sides against the family) teach you how to ask for a favor in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0099

Learn different ways to modify adjectives with this lesson all about the seasons. By the end of the lesson, you'll know how to describe the winter in different Chinese cities with varying levels of coldness.  Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/3010

Now, we know when in Rome, you like to adapt to the locals. So, we expect that you’ll be treating everyone to 12 course dinners like the best of them. But, if, for some reason, you go western style and split the bill, you’re gonna need this podcast. Listen, and learn how to ask for change for that 100 yuan bill (again, sounds like more than it is) in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0296

In this lesson, we focus on the structure, first....and then... (先...再...) This is useful when you are making plans, or telling a story and want to order your thoughts. For example, first, we'll eat, and then go to the cinema. Click the grammar tab as well as the grammar tags to find more examples and lessons. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4018

Sure, some might think this a niche lesson, but consider the alternative: (In Mandarin) “To tell you the truth, doc, I’m not sure if it was my inability to be around cats, or my violent reaction to shellfish--I just can’t breathe.” …or you can simply follow along in this podcast, where you will learn how to use Mandarin Chinese to explain that you have allergies. Up to you. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0165

In this lesson, we teach you some great ways to describe beauty, specifically when talking about a pretty woman. Learn how to say "your hair is like a waterfall", or "your eyes are just like the stars". Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4031

You’ve made contact via mobile phone with your friend and now you need to meet up, but can’t, for the life of you, figure out why he/she keeps saying “hao” after the numbers. Perhaps you should ask for landmarks…Listen in to this podcast and learn how to give addresses in Mandarin Chinese, as well as landmarks—a very useful technique in these cities the size of some countries! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0095

In this elementary lesson, we learn the different words for fresh and saltwater fish, as well as how to buy fish in a traditional wet market. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4066

With 20 million people all hitting the roads after work at the same time, you just may find yourself in the position of being late. So perhaps being armed with an apology would smooth things over? In this podcast, learn how to apologize for being late, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0308

Hearing a new accent can sometimes take a little time to get used to. When native speakers talk, they often link and join syllables, which is perfectly acceptable, just like in English. But for the untrained ear, it can be a little confusing at times. In today's lesson, you'll see an example of this possible confusion. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/3068

“BOO!” Bet you don’t know what to say to that, do ya? We do, and today we’ll teach you the correct response…In this podcast, you will learn how to both be the scare-er and the scare-ee, in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0311

Listen as a nosy sister asks lots of questions to her younger brother over the telephone about what he's been up to lately and how his relationship is going with his girlfriend. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4043

Lots of lessons under your belt and you’re feeling a bit sure of yourself these days, so here’s an intro to a few of the 1500 regional dialects here in China to bring you back down to us. In this podcast you will learn a few key phrases in a couple of the major dialects of China. Be nice and we’ll only make you remember a few. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0037

In this lesson, we teach you possibly the most important phrase to know. "Which way to the bathroom!?" If it's your first time travelling, it could be a lifesaver when you get an upset tummy. We also teach some pronunciation tips to keep in mind when saying the word "toilet" since we often here it badly pronounced, and it's important to get these key words right. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4056

You’ve had the Beijing Duck not to mention an ill-advised attempt at eating “chao mian” with chopsticks, and now it’s time to pay. Who gets the bill? The bigger man, that’s who. Save face by expensing it out. In this podcast you will learn how to request the bill in a Chinese restaurant, as well as how to fight over the bill in Mandarin Chinese. We’ll even throw in a bonus “Ai yo”!!! (most versatile word in the Mandarin language). Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0033

Mandarin tones got ya down? Perk up! We understand. In today’s podcast, our GM Steve comes in and offers up the wrong tones in Mandarin Chinese, so that you can start hearing the difference, which puts you on your way to correcting others mistakes, which is always an ego stroke. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0048

Chances are that while you’re pulling out your wallet to buy that “I Climbed The Great Wall” t-shirt, a few photos of the family will show themselves. So we’ll make sure you can tell them you have a sister… unless that traditional tiara is for you. In this podcast you’ll also get the chance to learn this and some more useful sentences for talking about family and people in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0031

ChinesePod's Michelle kindly shares her experience through contracting and recovering from COVID-19 with Chi, introducing a number of related vocabularies along the way. She's currently waiting for her final test results to confirm her full recovery. Let's wish her all the best! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4326

Roses are green, violets are red…it wouldn’t make sense back home, nor would it here, so you’d better familiarize yourself a little with the colors in Chinese. In this podcast, you will learn how to say the different colors in Mandarin Chinese, as well as how to talk about what color something is. Make all your friends “green” with envy. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0024

China is a shoppers’ heaven, and in this podcast lesson you’ll learn some key phrases in Mandarin Chinese to help you navigate the markets and shopping streets and get what you want. You’ll learn how to identify the items you want, and ask how much they are. You’ll also learn the colloquial term for money, so you can fit right in--no matter what color your hair is. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0006

Restaurant culture is a huge part of life in China, and you won’t want to miss out on some of the world’s most interesting cuisine just because you can’t ask for a menu in Mandarin Chinese. In this podcast lesson you’ll learn the vital phrase “do you have” (just insert toilet, bar, receipt, headache pills, etc). You’ll also learn how to politely interrupt someone, and the verb ‘to want’. Soon you’ll be wanting to know how to ask for the bill too… Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0005

When you travel to China, the question on all Chinese people’s lips is “Do you like China?" So, in this podcast lesson, we help you to answer that all important question. You’ll learn how to give an emphatic “Yes! I like China!” in Mandarin Chinese. In this lesson you will also learn how to speak about your likes and dislikes – something of the utmost importance, unless you’re happy eating chicken’s feet for breakfast. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0004

After you have said hello in Chinese and know your partner in conversation’s name, the next topic likely to come up is where you are from. In this podcast you’ll learn how to say several common nationalities in Mandarin Chinese, plus one of the ways to say yes (yes, there are several!). Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0003

Yes, it’s easy to point at yourself, say your own name, then point at their chest and make a questioning grunt, but wouldn’t it be great if you could ask for your new friends name in Chinese, and even tell them yours? In today’s podcast lesson, hosts Jenny and Ken teach you a few simple sentences to help you exchange names in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0002

In this lesson, we’ll teach you how to make friends! Or, at least the very first step: greetings. You’ll learn how to greet people in Mandarin Chinese, ask them how they are, and reply when they ask you. Sit back, listen, review and you’ll be able to show off with a few sentences yourself in no time. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0001

Despite our unbelievably good music taste (Ken likes anything he can do the “big box-little box” dance to; Jenny’s more of a country music gal), it wasn’t until our “80’s Office Party” that we realized we could make a lesson out of a Milli Vanilli ballad. In this retro-fueled podcast, we teach you how to tell that special someone that you miss them, using Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/0147

COVID-19 has left many cities stuck in a halt. In this special podcast, Chi first takes a short tour in the "paused" New York City, one of the epicenters of the pandemic. He then interviews with Shun who is from Hubei - the region where COVID-19 first emerged. What are the positives we can get out of a lockdown situation? How do we make things better for everyone? Let's brainstorm together! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4298

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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