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Our hosts, from the US and China, discuss what unites us. Using enlightening stories and brilliant guests from all walks of life, we join hands in laughter, building bridges across our cultural world. This is The Bridge to China. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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What’s in a name? Where do Harvard, English and identity meet?

What’s in a name? Where do Harvard, English and identity meet?

We discuss a viral vlogger’s attempt to reclaim her Chinese identity after quitting English language learning at Harvard. What’s in a name? From French traditions on naming for the day one is born to new names in new languages, Alex and Jason tour the world inside ourselves. “That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet?” What about a language? Join the Bridge for a journey deep into the culture of identity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0020/09/2022
Is the new green push in the US enough to move the needle?

Is the new green push in the US enough to move the needle?

The climate emergency has arrived. The US is set to spend hundreds of billions getting into the green-game. Europe, China and the US are leading the world into a new greener future. Will the US be able to turn the tables on carbon emissions? Beibei and Jason discuss the most important topic of our times. ‘Podcast and chill’ has never been so hot. We’ve got the facts and the talking points to keep you cool. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0016/09/2022
What you need to know about the Mid-Autumn Festival

What you need to know about the Mid-Autumn Festival

Listen in as Alex schools Jason on the intricacies of Moon Cakes, Lore and regional insider tradition. This episode dives deep to showcase the past present and future of the biggest holiday of the fall in China and all of east Asia. Want to join in the fun? We show you how to get your moon gazing on. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0009/09/2022
What can be done to retain our talented teachers?

What can be done to retain our talented teachers?

Jason and Beibei are joined by Rick Fakhre from California to talk about what its like to teach in America today. A teacher for more than a decade, Rick recently stepped down from his teaching position. He discusses the reasons he may be leaving the profession and what needs to change to make the job more appealing for qualified professionals. And he also shares the moment when he had to say goodbye to his students. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0009/09/2022
Recap: when 'inflation' is a bad word

Recap: when 'inflation' is a bad word

Inflation is costing the average American $717 more a month, analysis shows. For many, that’s a pain they have to deal with in everyday life. Find out more on this recap clip of The Bridge. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
09:2202/09/2022
Ride a bike to go across China? What has he experienced? Jerry Grey recap

Ride a bike to go across China? What has he experienced? Jerry Grey recap

In this recap segment of The Bridge, Jerry Grey, a British Australian who has lived in China for more than 18 years shared his story of riding a bike across China for three times. Also he shared his observation about the development of the Greater Bay Area in Southern China. What is the attraction there? And what has he experienced during the trips in China? Find out more with Jason, BeiBei and Jerry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
33:5230/08/2022
How do societies and people around the world support the handy-capable?

How do societies and people around the world support the handy-capable?

Beibei and Jason discuss people with special needs and special skills. From curing color blindness to the cutting edge of hearing research The Bridge talks about the edge of science. How can the visually impaired find their way around China? Find out in the most global podcast on the market. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0029/08/2022
Recap: fun facts about cultural diffusion

Recap: fun facts about cultural diffusion

Chinatowns in many countries are major attractions to tourists. What are the things that you want to share with The Bridge about cultural diffusion? Welcome to share with us. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
21:2924/08/2022
Budgeting strategies for living a balanced life

Budgeting strategies for living a balanced life

Americans have been struggling to save more money recently as prices keep growing. Some drive less to cut gas expenditure, and some dine out less but cook more at home. At the same time, some people are over-spending to purchase unnecessary stuff. The Bridge looks at some of the best and brightest investors and their financial advice. From paying off debts to budgeting and investing slowly and steadily, we discuss how to start preparing for retirement in style. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0017/08/2022
What is micro-management? Recap

What is micro-management? Recap

Are you being micro managed or do you think it's your company culture? Find out more on this recap edition of The Bridge with Alex and Jason. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
02:0415/08/2022
What are the most popular diet trends this year?

What are the most popular diet trends this year?

The team at The Bridge brings you the latest in dieting and self-care. Losing unwanted fat need not come at a price. We talk about losing weight with host Jason, who recently lost 80 pounds. Listen in to stay healthy while getting ready for your debut at the beach. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0010/08/2022
How to stay money savvy during this trying time

How to stay money savvy during this trying time

How to spend and not spend wisely in trying times? Have you been borrowing more on your credit card? Are you checking the gas prices everyday in the hope of seeing it go down? We know how it feels. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0009/08/2022
How to find a job in China and start a life there?

How to find a job in China and start a life there?

Ever thought of moving to a new country? For example, to China? Life in China could blow your mind if you have been immersed in western media depictions of the country. But how to find a job? How to make new friendships and find a home there? Here are some tried and tested tips from Jason and Alex on The Bridge. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0008/08/2022
Need more romance in your life? China’s romantic Qixi Festival is here.

Need more romance in your life? China’s romantic Qixi Festival is here.

Qixi Festival is one of five different romantic holidays celebrated in China. On the 7th day of the 7th lunar month, heaven and earth are joined for two lovers. Join the Bridge and learn how you can share the magic with the one you love. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0003/08/2022
Bike riding across China-Jerry Grey's journey never stops

Bike riding across China-Jerry Grey's journey never stops

We invite cross communications specialist Jerry Grey onto the show to discuss England, Australia and living 18 years in China. Jerry describes riding a bicycle across China three times including his sojourn into Xinjiang and the mountains of Guangdong. We ask him about China now verses China 18 years ago and he gives us surprising insights you’ll want to hear. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0002/08/2022
Child care centers are closing-up-shop across the US

Child care centers are closing-up-shop across the US

Beibei and Jason discuss the future of child care in the US. We talk about global trends in childcare and how families can help in complicated times. If you are expecting or just started a family, you absolutely need to hear about the latest trends in caring for your young ones. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0001/08/2022
When does camera at work help and when does it hurt?

When does camera at work help and when does it hurt?

Cutting edge research shows that a monitored employee slows productivity and even leads to employee theft of company property. Alex, an expert in cross cultural competence training delves into the similarities and differences in business culture around the world. This episode of The Bridge will make a manager out of you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0026/07/2022
The real cost of inflation Americans face...

The real cost of inflation Americans face...

America faces a cruel daily reality. Many products from food to oil are more expensive than ever...Inflation is at 9.1% according to US Bureau of Labor Statistics. How can Americans tide themselves over? Jason and Beibei dive deep to shine a light on the complex network of levers changing your life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0026/07/2022
The dangers of illegal immigration into America

The dangers of illegal immigration into America

America is still a place many people are desperate to enter. With legal vehicles difficult to overcome for many, they are turning to literal vehicles. Recently tragedy struck many illegal immigrants entering the US and Spain. We look at the root of this trend and surprising solutions we can all get behind. This episode of The Bridge is a must for your ears. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0025/07/2022
Recap: digital gift-giving

Recap: digital gift-giving

In this recap clip, Jesse and Tom shared their opinions about digital gift-giving. They are standup comedians who used to work in China. Jesse Appell can speak perfect Mandarin and make Chinese audience laugh. Tom Xia is a Chinese American, born in Harbin. He's also a director but now a milk dad with two babies. They've got witty jokes with perspectives. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
16:4322/07/2022
Fading beacon? Will fewer Chinese students study in the UK and US?

Fading beacon? Will fewer Chinese students study in the UK and US?

With a seemingly endless series of crisis affecting the UK and the US, will Chinese families send their kids to study there? The Bridge talks about why Chinese students are rethinking their educational plans and how much it is going to cost the west. Join us at the cutting edge of trends in global education with BeiBei and Jason. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0020/07/2022
Are rolling heat waves the New Norm? Summer in different cities across the world

Are rolling heat waves the New Norm? Summer in different cities across the world

Hong Kong's Maurice, Wuhan's Beibei, and California's Jason discuss a world wrapped in heat waves. Are you going to experience power cut this summer in the US? Is this nature or mankind? What can be done? Do you know that Chinese people have their own smart ways to protect the sunburn? We discuss the best ways to stay cool in the boiling heat according to different places and people. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0019/07/2022
Racial profiling in home break-ins in the US is on the rise

Racial profiling in home break-ins in the US is on the rise

Asian communities in the US are being targeted for home break-ins. The Bridge breaks it down for you. What do you need to know to be safe? Why is crime so rampant in the US? Listen in and learn some of the latest trends in criminality. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0018/07/2022
Why has traditional Chinese medicine spread to every corner of the world?

Why has traditional Chinese medicine spread to every corner of the world?

You can easily find a TCM clinic now in big cities of the US. Cupping and Acupuncture have been popular outside of China for decades, but cupping is a more recent phenomenon in the United States, although it dates back to 3000 BC in Asia. Jason and Alex outline what you might need to know to improve your quality of life. You need to hear this. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0015/07/2022
How do we preserve culture in the age of screens and plastic?

How do we preserve culture in the age of screens and plastic?

Nations around the world apply for Intangible Cultural Heritage status for their nations sacred traditions. Beyond saving The Pyramids and The Great Wall, we discuss the dances, teaching styles and medicines that are being saved. What will we pass to future generations? Listen, reply and participate in our discussion. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0014/07/2022
Are we phone users or phone slaves? Recap

Are we phone users or phone slaves? Recap

In a previous episode, BeiBei and Jason discussed about whether our attention is taken away by the content providers of social media, and whether we should rethink our time and energy consumed on phones. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
04:2513/07/2022
What does it take to make it as a journalist in China?

What does it take to make it as a journalist in China?

The Bridge invites Shanghai Daily's Andy Boreham to the show. We discuss life as a journalist in China. Andy talks food, travel and Mandarin in China's metropolitan Shanghai. He's been to many places in China, including the most remote areas. He also reported in the flood in Henan Province, interviewed people in Hong Kong, and went to Xinjiang. Tune in to this episode of The Bridge. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0011/07/2022
For some travelling is back. We tell you what you need to know to get back in the air

For some travelling is back. We tell you what you need to know to get back in the air

Alex and Jason at The Bridge have travelled to dozens of cities across the world. Our hosts lay what you need to know before you touch down in Los Angeles, New York, Beijing, and other places the world over. Should you tip in Asia? Listen in and learn the secrets of world travel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:5008/07/2022
Is EV the future? Will you miss the Vroooom...?

Is EV the future? Will you miss the Vroooom...?

Gas prices are now sky high in the United States. More Americans have turned to electric cars. Is there a similar trend in China? Listen in to The Bridge to hear about the global and the local with Jason and Alex. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0008/07/2022
Is the US facing an unimaginable water crisis? You need to hear this!

Is the US facing an unimaginable water crisis? You need to hear this!

China has been using the North South Water Diversion Project for a few years now to bring water from the wet south to the dry north. The US’ Great Lakes has more water than one can dream, yet much of the west is in perpetual drought. Is the problem a water shortage or a shortage of will? We look at the many contexts affecting our perceptions of water in the US from climate change to bizarre laws preventing you from collecting rain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0028/06/2022
Decoding the language of love

Decoding the language of love

What is intercultural dating like? It's a dream straight out of a movie – live abroad, meet a cute local, and partner up together for life. Jesse and Tom talk intercultural dating and there are STORIES! Tom shares how he met his Chinese wife in the USA and travelled all the way to Beijing to be with her, and Jesse shares tales of dating a European in China. What really makes intercultural couples work? And will Jesse be single forever? Jesse Appell is a standup comedian. Tom Xia is a Chinese American director. Now both of them are in Los Angles. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
53:5924/06/2022
Cars, SpongeBob and The Shrek...what can an animation artist do?

Cars, SpongeBob and The Shrek...what can an animation artist do?

What kind of people could create characters like SpongeBob and Shrek and dedicate to such career? Jason thinks they must be a bunch of kids. Dalton Grant Junior has worked with Pixar, DreamWorks, Amazon, Netflix, Nickelodeon and more. He tells us about working with huge animation companies in the U.S. and his new journey into China, where he and his partner have founded a studio in Beijing: Floating World Animation Studios. He tells a story about how to tell a story. Join in to learn about cinema, animation, trade secrets, storytelling, life and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0023/06/2022
Call me Naiba, call me stay-at-home dad

Call me Naiba, call me stay-at-home dad

Tom Xia and Jesse Appell are guest hosts on The Bridge. Tom Xia is a Chinese American director living in Los Angeles, and Jesse used to perform stand-up comedy in China. Now both of them are in L.A.. Tom's got two young kids and it's turned everything upside-down! He's a Naiba now - a 'stay-at-home Dad' – but what does that really mean nowadays? The phrase 'Naiba' is seen all over the Chinese internet nowadays as the global phenomenon of men's role as the sole breadwinner morphs and changes. See how Tom is working through the change of role and how he balances child-raising tasks with his and his wife's careers as Chinese film directors. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0020/06/2022
How are Gen Z and X Reshaping the Workplace?

How are Gen Z and X Reshaping the Workplace?

From Gen Z to the next generation entering our work places, the cultures can seem worlds apart. How can people raised in different times share their time in a work evolving workplace. What are the new ethics of a generation willing to forgo work that isn't suitable? Has unemployment dropped because they aren't looking for work? The Bridge shines a light on everything from gaps in your resume to spiraling inflation. You need to hear this. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0017/06/2022
Can Fungi eat plastic to help deal with the pollution?

Can Fungi eat plastic to help deal with the pollution?

Scientist Peter Mortimer has found fungi in China's protected forests of Yunnan that can eat plastics and latex rendering them biodegradable. Instead of a planet filled with land waste we may just turn plastic into fertilizer. Listen in to learn about the cutting edge of humanities search for a solution to the plastic crisis. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0016/06/2022
Is there such a thing as American food? Recap: cultural diffusion

Is there such a thing as American food? Recap: cultural diffusion

When Chinese kids enjoy the cheese burger from McDonald's thinking it's American food, are they really having American food? Is there really such a thing as American food? Is there any food in China deeply affected by other cultures in history? Jason and Alex talked about cultural diffusion and found that we are all connected. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
29:5015/06/2022
The Bridge takes you from culture shock to reverse culture shock at 500 miles per hour

The Bridge takes you from culture shock to reverse culture shock at 500 miles per hour

The Bridge gives you the secrets to surviving in a new country. The first few weeks in a new country are often called the honeymoon phase. Then comes the shock. Who'll survive and who should've stayed home. We tell you the stories of the 'runners' who didn't make the grade. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0014/06/2022
Are they dealing with food shortages, inflation and student debt... or nothing will change?

Are they dealing with food shortages, inflation and student debt... or nothing will change?

US inflation hits 40-year high as costs for food, gas and shelter keep rising. Some experts even suggest that Americans with low income should eat more lentils instead of meat to deal with rising food prices. What is the reality of the American economy today? Find out more on The Bridge with Jason and Alex. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0013/06/2022
Tiny homes: solution to the housing crisis?

Tiny homes: solution to the housing crisis?

The global movement to shrink the traditional home is growing larger. From a micro-trend for the young and hip to a feasible way to provide homes in an economy no one could have predicted these homes may be the future. We take you around the world to look at markets you hadn’t even considered. Is the big house outdated? Listen to the data and you may be downsizing and living large. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0010/06/2022
From dowries to dining: here's what it takes to get married around the world

From dowries to dining: here's what it takes to get married around the world

We show you the latest trends in tying the knot. From red dresses to bowing to your parents, here's what it takes to plan for your big day, today. Find out more with Jason and Alex. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0004/06/2022
Were you happy when you were a kid? Are your children happy today?

Were you happy when you were a kid? Are your children happy today?

What do two parents and a professional teacher know about raising kids? We tackle the global and the modern ways to prepare the next generation of kids for a changing future. What are the skills they need today? How are confidence, love and talent interlinked? Maurice from Hong Kong joins Beibei from Beijing and Jason from California to tackle the future of our world: kids. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
54:5901/06/2022
Mass shooting in Texas elementary school. Enough is enough, but is there a solution?

Mass shooting in Texas elementary school. Enough is enough, but is there a solution?

The Bridge pays condolences to those who lost their children in the recent mass shooting in a Texas elementary school. At least 21 people were killed Tuesday morning on May 24th, including 19 school children. This episode of The Bridge was recorded and produced before this tragedy. Podcaster Jason chose this topic because too many mass shootings had happened in the U.S. in recent months. According to the Gun Violence Archive, as we entered the 144th day of the year, this recent case is at least the 212th mass shooting. Americans used to be proud for their freedom and choice to carry firearms since it's believed to be a way of self-protection. But people died and more are dying, including children. Vice-president Kamala Harris said, 'Enough is enough.' When can we really call it an end? The discussion was between Jason Smith and BeiBei. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0025/05/2022
What if there were no delivery riders...recap

What if there were no delivery riders...recap

Have you ever imagined what would happen during this whole trying time if there were no delivery services nor delivery riders sending us parcels, food and medicine...? Jason and Alex talked about their own experiences in life in a previous episode and now welcome to tune in. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
27:1025/05/2022
Who should pay the bill and why do they fight over the bill?

Who should pay the bill and why do they fight over the bill?

In this recap piece of The Bridge, Jason, BeiBei and Maurice discuss the culture difference between China and the U.S. when it comes to paying the bill. This is a fun part to listen to.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
28:3323/05/2022
How is inflation impacting you and what can you do about it?

How is inflation impacting you and what can you do about it?

The Bridge takes the long view on inflation and gets you the insights you need to survive. We ask why some nations are struggling while others aren't. Why are CEOs making record profits and your family is paying more than ever? Tune in to understand the context of the greatest loss of middle class wealth in a generation. Tune in with Jason and Alex. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0022/05/2022
Can competition benefit meaningful progress?

Can competition benefit meaningful progress?

China is labeled as a threat by the U.S.. Different political systems, and narrations. But has U.S. benefited from China's development, and will competition bring destroy or opportunities for both sides? Find out with Jason and BeiBei. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0017/05/2022
Netflix added fees, CNN Plus canceled...what to watch and how in the future?

Netflix added fees, CNN Plus canceled...what to watch and how in the future?

From home theaters with surround sound to the experience of getting snacks and sitting in relative silence, we discuss the future of movies. Are streaming services disrupting the legacy of film? Are you pissed off by the rising fees? Want some insider tips? We’ve got those too. Get your popcorn ready, we’ll handle the rest. Jason and Alex discuss the issue. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0012/05/2022
Is Mother's Day celebrated or tolerated? Welcome to a mother's world on Mother's Day!

Is Mother's Day celebrated or tolerated? Welcome to a mother's world on Mother's Day!

American host, Vlogger and writer Jason Smith talks about Mothers’ Day and how his mum raised four boys, and how he tried to please his live-in Chinese mother-in-law. Beibei, a freelancing expert on literature and full-time mother shares mums’ stories, struggles and conflicts, laughs and tears. Listen in to this hilarious discussion and explore how people appreciate their mum in different cultures. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0008/05/2022
What's next in tech? A professional gamer talks about the future of metaverse

What's next in tech? A professional gamer talks about the future of metaverse

More and more Americans are complaining of being squeezed. Everything seems to be happening at once, from the pandemic to inflation and wage stagnation. You may be surprised to find out whether the American Dream is still alive. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0005/05/2022
Are Americans retiring into homelessness?

Are Americans retiring into homelessness?

While politicians seem to be sitting on their hands, the hands that furnish their lives are sitting in the streets. With homelessness on the rise and people ill prepared for retirement, what will happen to the millions of Americans with no savings? The Bridge discussed global solutions that may suit the new needs of an American crisis in the making. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:0003/05/2022