"I sold everything... I was all in. I put in all my chips." With this leap of faith, American ceramic artist Michael May left behind his life in the United States and arrived in Jingdezhen, China's porcelain capital, a year and a half ago. Having traveled to nearly 20 countries, the seasoned artist ultimately chose Jingdezhen as his creative base. In the latest episode of "Trending in China", Michael shares his unique journey from Oklahoma City to Jingdezhen with host Yolanda Lu and co-host Belinda Chen. With a background in traditional techniques and a passion for innovation, he now blends 3D printing technology with traditional pottery, creating works that marry form with function. He delves into the city's collaborative spirit, learning from master craftsmen who spend lifetimes perfecting their art, and finding his tribe among the growing community of "Yang Jing Piao" (foreign expats living in Jingdezhen). Michael explains why this relentless pursuit of craftsmanship drives him to become better and why he believes "this is so far the best and the smartest place for a potter to be." “我卖掉了所有家当，孤注一掷来到景德镇。”凭着这份决心，美国陶瓷艺术家迈克尔・梅（Michael May）在一年半前离开家乡，选择在中国"瓷都"景德镇落脚。这位曾走遍近20个国家的艺术家，最终在这座以陶瓷闻名的城市找到了归宿。 在本期《潮动中国》节目中，迈克尔向主播Yolanda Lu和Belinda Chen讲述了他从俄克拉何马城到景德镇的特别经历。凭借扎实的传统陶艺功底和创新热情，他将3D打印技术与手工陶艺完美结合，创作出既实用又美观的作品。 他沉浸于这座城市独特的协作氛围，向那些用一生磨练技艺的老匠人学习，并在日益壮大的"洋景漂"群体中找到了归属感。迈克尔还谈到，这种对技艺的执着追求如何不断推动他突破自我。“对陶艺家来说，这里就是最好、最理想的地方。”他说。 Highlights: 00:03:03 - Michael's journey from Oklahoma to Jingdezhen 00:04:12 - First impressions of the city and its pottery culture 00:07:10 - Traveled to nearly 20 countries before settling here 00:10:07 - Contrasts convenience in Asian cities vs. American life 00:11:21 - How ceramics connect people across the globe 00:14:00 - Jingdezhen: a small city with a growing "Yang Jing Piao" community 00:15:25 - Reflections on whether Jingdezhen feels like home 00:19:40 - The paradox of Jingdezhen: small city yet international hub 00:29:16 - Why Jingdezhen is ideal for pottery business 00:34:23 - Learning traditional techniques from local masters 00:40:00 - Initially thought clay 3D printing was "the dumbest" 00:42:01 - Decided to go "100% in" on clay printing 00:47:05 - Using his foreign identity as a marketing advantage 00:51:50 - How Chinese craftsmanship continues to amaze him 01:01:18 - Describes Jingdezhen as "happy, beautiful, and old" This podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube, among many platforms.You are also more than welcome to check our newsletter where you can find more in-depth sharings around Chinese economy: pekingensight.substack.com

In this episode of "Trending in China," we explore Hangzhou—a city where classical charm and cutting-edge innovation intertwine. Joined by commentator Anil from India and local reporter Emma, we delve into how this ancient capital, famed for the poetic West Lake, has transformed into a cradle for "Six Dragons" like DeepSeek and Game Science. We unpack Hangzhou's unique DNA: its rich cultural heritage, a government that acts as a "patient gardener," and a pioneering entrepreneurial spirit. Anil shares his impression of the city evolving from "real" to "remarkable," while Emma defines its soul with three words: "Poetic," "Innovation," and "Inclusiveness." Discover why everyone, from newcomers to long-term residents, feels a sense of belonging that "this city belongs to me." Join us to see how Hangzhou composes a digital symphony where tradition and future resonate in harmony. 在本期《潮动中国》节目中，我们与来自印度的评论员Anil和来自杭州的记者Emma一同深入杭州，探索这座古典与现代交织的智慧之城。 从诗意盎然的西湖到引领创新的科技巨头，杭州打破了千年古城的刻板印象，蜕变为孕育科技“六小龙”的摇篮。我们深入探讨了杭州的独特基因：其深厚的文化底蕴、政府“园丁”般的培育模式、以及敢为人先的创业精神。 Anil分享了他对这座城市从“真实”到“卓越”的印象转变，而Emma则用“诗意（Poetic）”、“创新（Innovation）”与“包容（Inclusiveness）”三个词定义了杭州的灵魂。无论是寻求短居还是长留，杭州都能让人产生“此心安处是吾乡”的归属感。跟随我们，看杭州如何在新纪元中谱写一首传统与未来共鸣的数字诗篇。 Highlights: 00:01:32: From West Lake to Tech Hub: A City's Evolution 00:03:50: 3 Words for Hangzhou: Poetic, Innovative, Inclusive 00:08:34: Tech Demo: Experiencing 3D Body Scanning 00:10:50: Meet the "Six Tech Dragons" of Hangzhou 00:13:35: Smart Benches: Tech Infused in Daily Life 00:19:51: Government's Role: The "Patient Gardener" 00:23:45: Local DNA: Confidence & Entrepreneurial Spirit 00:29:30: Work-Life Balance: Nature & Tech in Harmony 00:35:13: Final Take: Innovation Needs Roots

When 60,000 fans packed a stadium in Nanjing this July for an amateur match, it wasn't superstars they cheered for – but teachers, delivery drivers, and fishmongers representing their hometowns. In this episode, host Yolanda Lu is joined by South African sports journalist Andre and Jiangsu-based reporter Eric to explore China’s surprise summer obsession: Su Super League (苏超), where 13 Jiangsu cities battle in a cultural-defining tournament. Together, we uncover: * Why it went viral: 11B+ views and city-wide public screenings * Economic alchemy: How matchdays fuel local spending surges * Derby magic: Wuxi’s "honey peach" mascots vs Nanjing’s "salted duck" warriors * Everyday heroes: Why part-time players embody China’s sports spirit * The teen revolution: High-school stars rewriting football’s future "People don’t just cheer for goals," says Eric. "They cheer for their city’s soul." Discover how fishmongers became idols – and why this people’s pitch might change Chinese sports forever. 今夏，当六万球迷涌入南京球场为业余比赛呐喊时，他们欢呼的对象并非球星——而是代表家乡出战的外卖员、教师和鱼贩。本期节目，主播Yolanda Lu深入中国夏日现象级事件：江苏「苏超」联赛，揭秘这场席卷13座城市的草根狂欢。特邀南非体育记者Andre与江苏本土媒体人Eric，为您解码： * 破圈密码：110亿播放量 + 全城露天观赛热潮 * 经济奇观：单场比赛如何引爆消费浪潮 * 德比情结：无锡“水蜜桃战队”VS南京“盐水鸭军团” * 平民英雄：为什么兼职球员诠释着真正的体育精神 * 少年力量：中学生球员如何改写足球未来 “球迷呐喊的不只是进球，”Eric坦言，“更是城市灵魂的共鸣。” 看这场 全民球场 如何重塑中国体育基因。 Highlights: 03:40 League Essence: Amateur 13-city tournament format explained 05:09 Stadium Frenzy: 60k crowd in Nanjing-Suzhou showdown 05:45 Viral Tsunami: 11B+ short-video views across platforms 07:10 Public Energy: "Human waves" in stadiums & city screenings 08:33 Derby Fuel: Local rivalries ignite civic pride 11:49 Core Appeal: Joy beyond winning/losing 14:07 Hidden Roots: China’s deep-seated football passion 17:32 Everyday Heroes: Teachers/delivery drivers as players 18:57 Fan First: ￥5-20 tickets & heatwave suspensions 20:22 Provincial Pride: 90%+ awareness across Jiangsu 22:16 Economic Spark: Restaurants/tourism riding matchdays 26:30 Sportsmanship Alive: Rival fans get 30% BBQ discount 32:04 Teen Talent: High school stars shine on field 42:37 City Symbols: Wuxi’s peaches vs Nanjing’s ducks 48:48 ￥340M Boom: Single matchday spending surge This podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube, among many platforms.You are also more than welcome to check our newsletter where you can find more in-depth sharings around Chinese economy: pekingensight.substack.com

In this episode of Trending in China, Host Yolanda Lu in Beijing and reporter Merry Wu unpack NVIDIA's CEO Jensen Huang's recent Beijing visit. In 20 minutes, we decipher: why China's tech ecosystem left him in awe? Why AI's future demands global collaboration? Fresh off Nvidia's historic $4 trillion milestone, Huang arrived not for victory laps but to champion a radical idea: "AI is the greatest equalizer of anything we have ever done." We unpack his whirlwind agenda: from donning a Tang suit at the China International Supply Chain Expo to open talks with media. Why open-source models like China’s DeepSeek-R1 electrify him? How Chinese EVs became“rolling living rooms"? What's next for Nvidia in China? And how Jensen Huang uses AI? Tune in to Trending in China, where we dive into the latest buzz of the Chinese economy and beyond. Special thanks to Zachary Huang for the interview audio. 在本期《潮动中国》节目中，主持人Yolanda Lu与跟访记者Merry Wu共同解析英伟达CEO 黄仁勋近期的北京之行。 刚创下4万亿美元市值历史里程碑，黄仁勋却未沉浸庆功，而是带着颠覆性理念奔赴中国国际供应链博览会。本期节目，我们一起讨论： * 中国开源模型DeepSeek-R1为何令他振奋？ * 中国电动车如何变身“带轮子的客厅”？ * 英伟达在华战略将如何破局？ * 黄仁勋本人如何用AI防AI“发疯”？ 敬请收听《潮动中国》。我们深入中国经济脉搏，探索世界前沿趋势。特别鸣谢Zachary Huang提供的黄仁勋媒体访问录音。 Highlight: 1:54 Jensen Huang's packed schedule in Beijing 3:33 What Jensen thinks of the Chinese market 7:04 Jensen's view on DeepSeek 11:50 Jensen's take on AI safety and how he uses AI 15:10 Interdependence of the global supply chain This podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube, among many platforms.You are also more than welcome to check our newsletter where you can find more in-depth sharings around Chinese economy: pekingensight.substack.com

In the latest episode of "Trending in China", Irish chef Curt Evans reveals his unexpected journey in Anhui with host Yolanda Lu in Beijing and Zhao Jinzheng in Hefei. Arriving in Hefei seven years ago for a university exchange program, he planned to stay 10 months but fell for the province’s authenticity: "Anhui is super real--the people are genuine, and it feels like the real China. I didn’t choose Anhui; it chose me." With Michelin kitchen experience, Curt now runs food consulting ventures and restaurants bridging Irish and Huizhou cuisines. He delves into iconic dishes like stinky mandarin fish (臭鳜鱼), born from ancient merchants’ preservation techniques, and hairy tofu (毛豆腐), a frugality-driven innovation. These stories show how food conveys love when words fail. He finds deep parallels between Anhui and Irish food culture: "Both turned scarcity into creativity—fermenting, curing, and sharing meals as acts of resilience." For travelers, he urges: "Head south to Huangshan! Its architecture, mountains, and Hui cuisine create a harmony found nowhere else." 最新一期 "Trending in China" 播客中，爱尔兰主厨Curt Evans（小红书@Curt闻香识中国）与主播Yolanda Lu和Zhao Jinzheng分享了他与安徽的奇妙缘分。七年前，他因大学合作项目从爱尔兰来到合肥，原计划停留10个月，却被这座城市的真实与活力深深吸引："不是我选择了安徽，是安徽选择了我。这里的人们友善真诚，让我感受到最真实的中国。" Curt拥有米其林餐厅背景，如今在合肥经营餐饮咨询公司，并开设融合爱尔兰与徽菜元素的餐厅。他深入探索徽州饮食文化，尤其着迷于臭鳜鱼和毛豆腐背后的智慧：前者源于徽商远行时保存鱼鲜的巧思，后者诞生于古人节俭创新的发酵工艺。这些菜肴印证了美食如何连接情感——当人们不擅口头表达爱时，食物成了分享关怀的媒介。 他为何选择成为一名厨师？餐饮咨询又是怎样的新兴行业？教育和餐饮如何实现跨界融合？订阅"Trending in China"（潮动中国），收听中国经济/文化最新趋势。 Highlights: 3：50: Chef, Teacher, Consultant: Who is Kurt? 5：48: First Impressions of Anhui 8：49： Cultural Shock: Car Horns as "Hellos"? 10：20：Hefei: A Tale of Two Cities 12：40：High-Speed Rail: China vs. Europe 14：25: Borderless Cuisine Philosophy 18：30：Teaching: The Energy Multiplier 19：30：MBTI & Career Paths 23：15: Food Consulting: China’s Untapped Market 25：28：Social Media Food Quest 29：39: Anhui Cuisine: North-South Divide 31：18：First Encounter: Stinky Mandarin Fish（臭鳜鱼） 35：23: Tales Behind Iconic Dishes 38：18：Ireland-Anhui: Kindred Food Spirits 43：05：Joy-Centric Learning Revolution 46：58: Why Cooking Chose Kurt 50：57：Vision: Irish Food Beacon in Asia 53：15：Travel advice for visiting Anhui This podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube, among many platforms.You are also more than welcome to check our newsletter where you can find more in-depth sharings around Chinese economy: pekingensight.substack.com

Xinjiang -- where scorching deserts bloom with technological marvels and ancient civilizations, forging unity amid breathtaking diversity and economic dynamism. In this episode of Trending in China，host Yolanda Lu and reporters Cao Bin/Sylvia Wang bring you on an eye-opening journey through Xinjiang -- China’s western frontier where deserts bloom with innovation. 新疆——一片在沙漠中绽放科技与文明之花、凝聚经济活力与人文韧性的神奇土地。本期《Trending in China》节目中，主持人Yolanda Lu与记者Cao Bin、Sylvia Wang带您探索新疆的蜕变奇迹。 Discover how "desert roses" defy arid landscapes, how ultra-high-voltage grids transmit wind/solar power to eastern cities in milliseconds, and how tech-driven cotton farms merge nature with cutting-edge tech. 在这片占中国六分之一疆域的土地上，沙漠不再是障碍——您将听到"沙漠玫瑰"如何在黄沙中绽放，超高压输电工程如何在毫秒内输送绿色能源至东部，以及机械化智能棉田如何支撑全球20%棉花产量的科技传奇。 The human stories captivate: Highway maintenance couples brave 50℃ heat to guard 522km of desert roads against sandstorms; the 3,800-year-old "Loulan Beauty" mummy reveals Silk Road social hierarchies through her feather hat and jewelry; while Uygur children dancing spontaneously at night markets embody ethnic unity. 更令人动容的是人文故事：沙漠公路夫妻养护队在50℃高温中守护522公里生命线，用铁锹和太阳能板对抗随时吞噬公路的沙暴；楼兰美女以千年不腐的容颜诉说丝路文明，她的羽毛帽与皮靴揭示古代社会等级；而夜市上维吾尔族孩童随音乐即兴起舞的画面，则成为民族团结最鲜活的注脚。 From oil fields producing cosmetic-grade "white oil" to data centers powered by green energy, Xinjiang turns challenges into synergy. This episode unpacks Xinjiang’s role in the Belt and Road Initiative through cultural gems like the immersive Yotkan ancient city show and bartering at Urumqi’s Grand Bazaar. Tune in to explore how deserts fuel progress, and subscribe for more on China’s untold frontiers! 从"一带一路"能源枢纽到重走丝绸之路的中原瓷器，从荒漠数据中心到油田化妆品产业链，新疆正将自然的馈赠转化为产业优势。正如嘉宾所言："在严酷环境中，平凡时刻会变成非凡体验"——无论是星空下的沙漠音乐会，还是手抓饭里胡萝卜与洋葱的魔法融合，都在诠释这片土地的坚韧与浪漫。 Highlights: 03:12 Southern Xinjiang’s Transformation Over the Past Decade 08:00 Xinjiang’s Deserts: How Trees Survive in Harsh Conditions 11:06 Rose Farms Thriving in the Desert 12:34 Powering China: Xinjiang’s Solar and Wind Energy Revolution 14:02 Technology Reshaping Xinjiang’s Cotton Industry 16:30 Must-See Attractions in Urumqi 23:00 Karamay’s Digital Transition: From Oil City to Tech Hub 28:00 Preserving History: Xinjiang’s Mummies and Their Cultural Significance 31:20 Immersive Cultural Experience at Yotkan Ancient City 34:50 Reviving the Silk Road: Barkol’s Rich Coal and Clay Resources 37:50 Highway Maintenance Couples Guarding 522km of Desert Roads in 50℃ Heat 41:03 How the Pairing-Up Program Accelerates Xinjiang’s Development 47:20 Xinjiang’s Culinary Journey: Lamb Skewers, Pilaf, and Big Plate Chicken 50:07 Quiz Time! This podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube, among many platforms.You are also more than welcome to check our newsletter where you can find more in-depth sharings around Chinese economy: pekingensight.substack.com

Dive into the heart of Fujian, China's captivating southeastern coastal province, rich in ancient culture, profound history, and vibrant traditions! In this episode of Trending in China, host Yolanda Lu sits down with two unique perspectives: Andre Bloem, a South African editor experiencing Fujian for the very first time, and Diego Yao, a Fuzhou native and seasoned journalist steeped in local wisdom. Hear Andre's fresh insights as a cultural explorer: What surprised and delighted him? How does Quanzhou and Xiamen resonate through foreign eyes? Then, journey deep with Yao as your local guide, uncovering hidden gems, age-old traditions, and the exciting new trends shaping Fujian today. Whether you're planning a trip or simply fascinated by Chinese regional culture, this compelling conversation offers a rich, multi-layered look into the soul of Fujian. Tune in and unlock the secrets of Fujian! S2E6 一盏福建：茶香里的山海故事 福建，中国东南沿海的瑰宝，以其深厚的文化、悠远的历史和独特的传统吸引着世界目光。在本期 Trending in China 潮动中国」中，主持人 Yolanda Lu 邀请到两位视角迥异的嘉宾：首次踏足福建的南非编辑 Andre Bloem 和土生土长于福州、经验丰富的资深记者 Diego Yao。 Andre 将带来他作为“文化探险者”的新鲜洞察：走进厦门、泉州，哪些福建元素让他惊艳？作为外国人的他如何解读这里的风土人情？而 Yao则化身“本地向导”，分享那些唯有在地人才知晓的秘辛、历史传承的故事以及正在悄然兴起的新潮流。 无论您是计划探索这片迷人土地，还是单纯沉醉于其独特的文化魅力，这场充满碰撞与深度的对话，都将为您打开一扇了解真实、立体、鲜活福建的窗口。 Highlights: 06:13 Fujian's tea-drinking culture 07:45 Mazu culture in Fujian and how it has influenced the world 19:21 Why Xiamen University is the most beautiful university in China 22:42 Food culture in Fujian and how it's connected to the rest of the world 28:01 How small businesses in Fujian thrive in harmony with nature 39:47 Traditions in Fujian/Quanzhou puppet show 50:05 Tips of traveling to Fujian/Be aware of the snakes! 57:35 Quiz time! Test your knowledge of Fujian This podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube, among many platforms.You are also more than welcome to check our newsletter where you can find more in-depth sharings around Chinese economy: pekingensight.substack.com

In this episode of Trending in China, Guo Shanqiuyun 郭山秋韵, an overseas returnee and the honorary village head of Tangjiazhuang Village in east China’s Anhui Province, continues to share her story. Often called "Village CEO," Guo is also the founder of rural tourism projects in Anhui and Yunnan provinces. This episode is co-hosed by Zhao Jinzheng 赵金正, a reporter based in Anhui, who loves to share on-the-ground insights from the province. S2E6 对话郭山秋韵：海归村庄运营师筑梦中国乡村（下） 本集Trending in China 「潮动中国」继续对话郭山秋韵，一位筑梦黄山村庄的海归创业青年。她如何与黄山汤家庄村结下不解之缘？作为一名乡村运营师，又对乡村振兴怎么看？本期亦有特邀主播、坐标安徽的一线记者赵金正，带我们一道感受年轻人带来的乡村发展新活力。 Part II digs deeper into Tangjiazhuang’s evolution. From profit-driven models to preserving cultural roots, hear how this village is writing its own story of rural development and rural revitalization — and why “taste” might be a secret weapon against social media homogenization. This podcast, recorded on April 20, is available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube, among many platforms.You are also more than welcome to check our newsletter where you can find more in-depth sharings around Chinese economy: pekingensight.substack.com

In this episode of Trending in China, host Zhang Yiyi is joined by Guo Shanqiuyun 郭山秋韵, an overseas returnee and the honorary village head of Tangjiazhuang Village in east China’s Anhui Province. Often called "Village CEO," Guo is also the founder of rural tourism projects in Anhui and Yunnan provinces. This episode is co-hosed by Zhao Jinzheng 赵金正, a reporter based in Anhui, who loves to share on-the-ground insights from the province. S2E5 对话郭山秋韵：海归村庄运营师筑梦中国乡村（上） 本集Trending in China 「潮动中国」对话郭山秋韵，一位筑梦黄山村庄的海归创业青年。她如何与黄山汤家庄村结下不解之缘？作为一名乡村运营师，又对乡村振兴怎么看？本期亦有特邀主播、坐标安徽的一线记者赵金正，带我们一道感受年轻人带来的乡村发展新活力。 In Part I, Guo shares her journey from studying abroad to diving headfirst into rural development in Huangshan’s Tangjiazhuang Village. Discover how youthful energy, creative collaborations and national policies are breathing new life into quiet villages. Highlights: 03:47 Guo's life abroad and key observations 09:06 Past and present: how are rural life different at home and abroad 14:17 Why Huangshan: national policy meets action 23:11 From empty houses to community hostels—early steps in Tangjiazhuang village renewal. 29:35 A village CEO's understanding of rural revitalization 33:36 Refreshed impressions of the Chinese village This podcast, recorded on April 20, is available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube, among many platforms.You are also more than welcome to check our newsletter where you can find more in-depth sharings around Chinese economy: pekingensight.substack.com

In this episode, host Zhang Yiyi brings you to the 2025 Global South Financiers Forum held in Beijing. Its theme, Illuminating Global South, highlights the growing influence of emerging economies and their efforts to reshape the global financial order. The Global South now accounts for 80% of global economic growth and 40% of the world’s GDP, yet financial governance structures still favor the Global North. At this forum, policymakers, economists, and business leaders gathered to explore alternative financing, debt sustainability, and currency diversification. In this episode, you will hear expert perspectives from Jiao Jie from Tsinghua University on how the Global South’s economic rise is reshaping global finance. Also Insightful conversations with: David Sumual, chief economist of Bank Central Asia on the role of alternative financing and China’s impact on South-South cooperation; Marc Uzan, executive director of Reinventing Bretton Woods Committee on the need for financial reform, and China’s role in financial institutions. Highlights: * 06:30 - Jiao Jie on the economic transformation of the Global South * 10:45 - David Sumual on Alternative Financing: How new funding models are reshaping global financial cooperation * 21:50 - Marc Uzan on Financial Reform: Challenges facing the Global South in the Bretton Woods system * 34:00 -The future of financial governance in an increasingly multipolar world This podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube. You are also more than welcome to check our newsletter where you can find more in-depth sharings around Chinese economy: pekingensight.substack.com Music Credits: * Lesion x - Discovery * Alex Productions - Christmas Magic * Pyrosion - Take a Moment

Spring Wonders | How IKEA Blends Festive Traditions with Home Trends The Year of the Snake is approaching! 春节chūn jié, the Spring Festival, also known as the Chinese New Year, is one of the most important holidays in Chinese culture. This year, it has been officially added to UNESCO’s representative list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. In this special Spring Festival episode, host Zhang Yiyi is joined by three special guests. They are: Carmen Xiao肖疆, IKEA Product Design Developer Lian Zhelin 连哲林, IKEA Designer Qian Jing 钱菁, IKEA Designer They explore how the globally recognized Swedish home furnishing brand, celebrates the Spring Festival. The guests share their unique insights into their Chinese New Year designs and how they bring tradition and innovation together in IKEA products. The conversation also touches on their observation of the Chinese market, including evolution of consumer behavior and home decoration trends. Highlights: 02:25 IKEA's journey in celebrating Spring Festival 10:30 Warm drinks on the go: even thermos are taken into consideration 10:55 Design challenges: balancing festive colors with everyday usability 14:49 Key motifs and cultural elements in IKEA’s 2025 Spring Festival Collection (FÖSSTA) 18:26 Incorporating Chinese aesthetics into modern ceramics 21:11 How IKEA's Spring Festival collections have influenced Chinese families and global consumers, reconnecting with traditional customs through tangible designs. 25:36 Evolution of consumer behavior and home decoration trends in the Chinese market 29:03 Incorporating cultural elements to a wider landscape This podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube. You are also more than welcome to check our newsletter where you can find more in-depth sharings around Chinese economy: pekingensight.substack.com

Spring Wonders | LEGO Designer: Fantastic Cultural Journey in LEGO Bricks The Year of the Snake is approaching! 春节chūn jié, the Spring Festival, also known as the Chinese New Year, is one of the most important holidays in Chinese culture. This year, it has been officially added to UNESCO’s representative list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. In this special Spring Festival episode, host Zhang Yiyi is joined by Wen Xiaodong 温笑冬, senior concept designer at the LEGO Group, also the first designer from Chinese mainland to join the headquarters of the global toy giant. Wen shares his experiences in integrating Chinese culture into LEGO sets, also the challenges and rewards of representing a diverse culture through toys. The designer walks us through highlights of the LEGO Group’s efforts to incorporate Spring Festival traditions into their products, and also the features of the 2025 series. He also reflects on his journey to becoming a LEGO designer, the process of designing culturally significant LEGO sets, and his pride in contributing to the spread of Chinese culture internationally. Highlights: 03:26 Celebrating Spring Festival overseas: sharing unique cultural experiences 04:57 The LEGO Group's journey in embracing Chinese New Year Culture 08:57 Extensive brainstorming and consumer feedback sessions across China to create unique festival sets 11:38 Rewards and challenges: design process details for Spring Festival-themed sets 19:15 Spring Festival: a gateway to Chinese culture 20:38 From concept artist to LEGO designer: an unexpected journey 26:30 Inspiration behind the Monkey Kids Series 32:24 LEGO aspirations for cultural relevance in China This podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube. You are also more than welcome to check our newsletter where you can find more in-depth sharings around Chinese economy: pekingensight.substack.com