Bitesize Chinese 一口中文

40 Episodes
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By: Mindy Lin

The Bitesize Chinese Podcast is a Taiwanese Mandarin podcast designed to support learners at every stage. 🎧 Podcast series include: – Bitesize Basics 🍰: clear, practical Mandarin for beginners – Bitesize Talks ☕️: everyday topics for confident beginners – Bitesize Convos 🗣️: natural Mandarin for upper-intermediate learners – Bitesize News 🌍: advanced Mandarin through real-world news 📘 Podcast Notes are available for all episodes, providing transcripts and structured review materials to help you slow down, understand, and retain what you hear. Whether you’re just starting out or refining advanced skills, Bitesize Chinese helps you build Mandarin one small bite at a time. 🥢 🔅 Contact: hello@bitesizechinese.com 🔅 Website: www.bitesizechinese.com 🔅 Free Consultation: calendly.com/bi...

Ep.247 🗣️ Bitesize Convos 🗣️ Online Shopping Confessions 網購習慣大公開!
Last Monday at 1:47 PM

Do you browse online shops for fun… or only when you need something? 👀 In this episode of Bitesize Convos, Mindy and Joeru chat about their online shopping habits — from algorithm-triggered impulse buys to careful price comparisons and lessons learned along the way. If you love shopping (or regret shopping 😅), this one’s for you.

📘 Podcast Notes
Full transcripts and structured study support to help you turn listening into real learning.
Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

🎯 In this episode, we cover:
– Browsing for fun vs shopping with a purpose – Getting “burned” by algorithms and impulse bu...


Ep.246 🍰 Bitesize Basics 🍰 Online Shopping Vocabulary (2) 我要到超商取貨
Last Monday at 1:32 PM

This episode continues from Ep.243 and focuses on what happens after you buy something online. Mindy and Joeru introduce practical Mandarin expressions for delivery options, picking up packages, unboxing, returning or exchanging items, and leaving reviews.
You’ll also learn Taiwan-specific terms like 超商取貨 and 店到店, helping you feel more confident navigating online shopping and package pickup in Taiwan.

📘 Podcast Notes
Full transcripts and structured study support to help you turn listening into real learning.
Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

🎯 Today’s Topic:
What happens after you place an order — delivery, pickup, and returns
...


Ep.245 🌏 Bitesize News 🌏 一季超越全年!國片票房創新高 The Secret Behind Taiwan's Box Office Boom
03/25/2026

Taiwanese films are making a comeback — and the numbers are surprising. In this episode of Bitesize News, Joeru and Amber break down why local Taiwanese movies are hitting record-breaking box office numbers in 2026, and what this means for the future of the industry.

本集將用清楚易懂的中文帶你了解台灣國片票房為什麼在2026年創下新高、文化部如何看待這個現象,以及台灣電影產業正在發生的轉變。
News source:中央通訊社 CNA, 2026/03/09, 趙靜瑜(https://www.gvm.com.tw/article/125373)

📘 Podcast Notes
Full transcripts and structured study support to help you turn listening into real learning.
Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

In this episode, we cover:
– 為什麼2026年第一季國片票房創下歷史新高 (Why Taiwanese films hit a record high in Q1 2026)
– 「票房破億」、「市占率」這些新聞常見說法 (Key news expressions like “box office surpassing 100 million” & “market share”)
– 台灣電影產業逐漸成熟的原因 (What’s driving the growth of Taiwan’s film...


Ep.244 ☕️ Bitesize Talks ☕️ Online Shopping in Taiwan Is TOO Convenient 超方便的網購服務
03/23/2026

In this episode of Bitesize Talks, Joeru shares how his experience with online shopping has completely changed over time — from inconvenient and risky to something he now relies on almost every day. Through simple, real-life Mandarin, you’ll learn how technology, payment systems, and delivery speed have transformed the way people shop.

📘 Podcast Notes
Full transcripts and structured study support to help you turn listening into real learning.
Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

🎯 In this episode, you’ll learn:
– What online shopping (網購) looked like in the past – Why people didn’t trust it before (limi...


Ep.243 🍰 Bitesize Basics 🍰 Online Shopping Vocabulary (1) 把東西加入購物車
03/23/2026

Shopping online in Mandarin doesn’t have to be complicated 🛒
In this episode, Mindy and Joeru walk you through the essential Mandarin vocabulary for online shopping — before you buy. From adding items to your cart to placing an order and making a payment, you’ll learn how Taiwanese speakers actually talk about online shopping in everyday life.
This episode focuses on what happens before your order is completed, using simple verbs and natural sentence patterns that beginners can start using right away.

📘 Podcast Notes
Full transcripts and structured study support to help you turn listening in...


Ep.242 🗣️ Bitesize Convos 🗣️ The “Disaster-Ready” Taiwanese Way 台灣的日常防災工作
03/16/2026

Why do people often say Taiwanese are “so prepared” for disasters — while locals feel it’s just normal life? In this episode of Bitesize Convos, Mindy and Joeru talk about everyday disaster preparedness in Taiwan — from earthquake alerts and school drills to the calm, practical mindset many locals grow up with.

📘 Podcast Notes
Full transcripts and structured study support to help you turn listening into real learning.
Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

🎯 In this episode, we cover:
– The types of natural and social disasters people in Taiwan live with
– How government system...


Ep.241 🍰 Bitesize Basics 🍰 Asking for Help in Mandarin 請幫我叫救護車
03/16/2026

【一家旅遊不卡卡,就找富邦旅平卡!】

出國前還在為投保旅平險煩惱嗎?讓富邦產險快樂旅平卡幫您搞定所有問題!

只要一次註冊就能存好資料,下次出門勾一勾就搞定!快速又方便!

馬上了解更多:

https://fstry.pse.is/8upua3

本保險商品一切權利義務悉依保單條款辦理,富邦產險保留承保與否之權利。


——以上廣告由 Firstory 與【月城南廣告】共同執行——




How do you ask for help in Mandarin? 🆘 In this episode, Mindy and Joeru teach you simple, real-life Mandarin phrases for asking for help — especially in urgent or emergency situations. You’ll learn how to politely ask for help, how to say you need help right away, and how to add a short reason if you can — all in beginner-friendly Mandarin.

📘 Podcast Notes
Full transcripts and structured study support to help you turn listening into real learning.
Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

🎯 Today’s Topic:
How to ask for help and talk about emergency situations in simple Mandarin

🗝 Key Sentence:
請幫我叫救護車。
Qǐng bāng wǒ jiào jiù...


Ep.240 🌏 Bitesize News 🌏 Earthquake Tests TSMC’s Resilience 強震考驗台積電韌性
03/11/2026

In this episode of Bitesize News, Joeru and Amber break down news surrounding the 12/27 earthquake in Taiwan and how it tested TSMC’s resilience and response能力. We explain the headline, key news vocabulary, and sentence patterns, and walk you through why this earthquake drew global attention — from supply chain concerns to how Taiwanese society responds to natural disasters.

本集將用清楚易懂的中文,帶你理解地震新聞的重點、生詞用法,以及這類產業新聞為什麼不只是在講「天災」。

News source:《自由時報》, 2025/12/29 (https://ec.ltn.com.tw/article/breakingnews/5292960*)*

📘 Podcast Notes
Full transcripts and structured study support to help you turn listening into real learning.
Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

In this episode, we cover:
– 新聞標題解析:「強震考驗台積電的韌性與應變能力」 (How to understand and unpack a typical Mandarin news head...


Ep.239 ☕️ Bitesize Talks ☕️ No One Panics Over Earthquakes in Taiwan 台灣人不怕地震嗎?
03/09/2026

你的錢,有在替你工作嗎?我是理財醫生陳大仁。《大仁的鈔能力》只講實戰邏輯:教你避開買房陷阱、打造股票現金流、掌握加密貨幣。每週更有免費直播課,教你如何讓投資變簡單,拿回財富主控權!

https://fstry.pse.is/8tgfbn


—— 以上為 Firstory Podcast 廣告 ——




What happens when you experience an earthquake in Taiwan for the first time? 🌏 In this episode, Mindy invites you to imagine sitting in a café in Taiwan when the ground starts shaking — and why locals often stay surprisingly calm. She explains why earthquakes are part of daily life in Taiwan, how geography plays a role, and how school earthquake drills shape people’s reactions. Mindy also shares the basic safety idea Drop, Cover, and Hold On, to help you feel more prepared and less afraid.

📘 Podcast Notes
Full transcripts and structured study support to help you turn listening into real learning.
Now Available here: https://ko-fi...


Ep.238 🍰 Bitesize Basics 🍰 What to Do in a Natural Disaster 天災來了!
03/09/2026

【一家旅遊不卡卡,就找富邦旅平卡!】

出國前還在為投保旅平險煩惱嗎?讓富邦產險快樂旅平卡幫您搞定所有問題!

只要一次註冊就能存好資料,下次出門勾一勾就搞定!快速又方便!

馬上了解更多:

https://fstry.pse.is/8upv4y

本保險商品一切權利義務悉依保單條款辦理,富邦產險保留承保與否之權利。


——以上廣告由 Firstory 與【月城南廣告】共同執行——




Natural disasters in Taiwan 🌪️🌧️ In this episode, Mindy and Joeru introduce some of the most common natural disasters you’ll hear about in Taiwan — from earthquakes and typhoons to heatwaves and cold spells. You’ll also learn a very practical key sentence that people use in real life to talk about what to do during an emergency, all in beginner-friendly Mandarin.

📘 Podcast Notes
Full transcripts and structured study support to help you turn listening into real learning.
Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

🎯 Today’s Topic:
Common natural disasters in Taiwan and how people usually talk about what to do when they happen

🗝 Key Sentence:
地震來的時候,應該要躲在桌子下...


Ep.237 🗣️ Bitesize Convos 🗣️ A Day as an Office Worker in Taiwan 台灣上班族的一天
03/02/2026

What does a typical workday look like for office workers in Taiwan? In this episode of Bitesize Convos, Mindy and Joeru walk you through 台灣上班族的一天 — from waking up, commuting, and grabbing breakfast, to group chat culture, lunch breaks, overtime, and even “invisible overtime” after work. Through personal experiences from very different workplaces, we explore what makes Taiwanese work culture unique (and very relatable).

📘 Podcast Notes
Full transcripts and structured study support to help you turn listening into real learning.
Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

🎯 In this episode, we cover:
– Different work schedules in Taiwan: 朝九晚五、排班、彈...


Ep.236 🍰 Bitesize Basics 🍰  Useful Office Vocabulary (2) 我正在做,馬上好。
03/02/2026

Need a quick way to reply at work? 💻📩
In this episode, Mindy and Joeru walk you through the most useful office phrases for everyday work situations. From saying you’re done or still working on something, to replying naturally with 收到, 沒問題, or 再給我一點時間, you’ll learn short, practical Mandarin that people actually use at work.

📘 Podcast Notes
Full transcripts and structured study support to help you turn listening into real learning.
Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

🎯 Today’s Topic:
Office phrases for progress updates and work replies

🗝 Key Sentence:
我正在做,馬上好。
(Wǒ zhèngzài zuò,mǎshàng h...


Ep.235 🌏 Bitesize News 🌏 Will Team Taiwan Edge Out South Korea at the WBC? WBC中華隊將力壓南韓?
03/02/2026

In this episode of Bitesize News, Joeru and Amber break down the latest headline from the WBC (World Baseball Classic 世界棒球經典賽) — with MLB’s official website predicting that Team Taiwan (中華隊) will advance, even edging out South Korea.

本集用清楚易懂的新聞中文,帶你了解什麼是「晉級」、「力壓」、以及體育新聞裡常見的比賽用語。同時,我們也聊聊:為什麼台灣人這麼關心棒球?WBC 對台灣來說代表什麼意義?

News source: 鏡週刊, 2026/02/22 (文:東森新聞)(https://www.mirrormedia.mg/external/ebc_538722)

📘 Podcast Notes
Full transcripts and structured study support to help you turn listening into real learning.
Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

In this episode, we cover:
– WBC 是什麼?為什麼台灣高度關注? (What is the World Baseball Classic, and why does it matter so much in Taiwan?)
– 標題解析:「晉級」、「力壓」的新聞用法 (Key headline vocabulary: advance to the next round & edge out)
– 韓國隊赴沖繩集訓、中華隊在台北大巨蛋備戰 (Korea training in Okinawa vs. Taiwan preparing at Taipei Dome)
– 「備戰」、「赴」、「看好」、「闖關」等正式新聞詞彙 (Formal n...


Ep.234 ☕️ Bitesize Talks ☕️ Back to Work! 開工讓我頭好痛!
02/23/2026

Does going back to work after a long holiday make your head hurt too? In this episode, Joeru talks about 開工 — the feeling of returning to work after Lunar New Year. From early mornings and endless group chats to seeing your boss again, we explore why 開工 feels so painful… and how workplace relationships (and 開工紅包 👀) can change everything.

🎯 In this episode, you’ll learn:
– What 開工 really means in everyday Mandarin
– Why many people feel stressed or tired before returning to work
– How workplace relationships can change how you feel about your job
– A common Lunar New Year tradition in Taiwanese companie...


Ep.233 🍰 Bitesize Basics 🍰 Useful Office Vocabulary (1) 你明天會進辦公室嗎?
02/23/2026

This week, Mindy and Joeru kick off our Back to Work 開工 theme with simple, practical office vocabulary for everyday Mandarin which you can use right away. From coworkers and clients to going into the office or working from home, this episode helps you talk about your work life in clear, beginner-friendly Mandarin.

📘 Podcast Notes
Full transcripts and structured study support to help you turn listening into real learning.
Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

🎯 Today’s Topic: Back-to-work office vocabulary

🗝 Key Sentence: 你明天會進辦公室嗎?(Nǐ míngtiān huì jìn bàngōngshì ma?)
— Will you go into th...


Ep.232 🌏 Bitesize News 🌏 Inside Taiwan’s Mazu Pilgrimage 白沙屯媽祖進香
02/20/2026

This week on Bitesize News, Joeru and Amber explore the story behind Taiwan’s Mazu pilgrimage. What does 媽祖 represent? What exactly is 進香? And why do thousands of people walk for days as part of this tradition? We also go through the 2026 白沙屯媽祖進香 schedule and key news vocabulary in simple Mandarin.

本集將用清楚易懂的中文討論帶你了解 2026 年白沙屯媽祖進香的最新日程安排、相關宗教用語,以及為什麼這場 8 天 7 夜的活動,被形容為「考驗信眾體力」的年度盛事。

News source: 今日新聞網, 2026/02/02, 潘毅 (https://www.nownews.com/news/6782335*)*

📘 Podcast Notes
Full transcripts and structured study support to help you turn listening into real learning.
Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

In this episode, we cover:
– 2026 白沙屯媽祖進香日程正式揭曉 (2026 Baishatun Mazu pilgrimage schedule announced)
– 「揭曉」、「考驗」、「信眾」等新聞關鍵詞解析 (Key vocabulary from the headline explained)
– 擲筊、起駕、回宮等宗教專有名詞 (Religious terms like zhíjiǎo, qǐjià, and returning to the temple)
– 「為期 + 時間 + 的活動」、「採…的制度」、「...


Ep.231 🗣️ Bitesize Convos 🗣️ wkward Family Questions at Lunar New Year 過年可怕的親戚問題
02/16/2026

Why does Lunar New Year make so many people anxious? In this episode of Bitesize Convos, Mindy and Joeru talk about one of the most relatable (and stressful) parts of Lunar New Year in Taiwan — awkward questions from relatives.

📘 Podcast Notes
Full transcripts and structured study support to help you turn listening into real learning.
Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

🎯 In this episode, we cover:
– Why Lunar New Year family gatherings often feel stressful
– The most common “awkward” questions about work, relationships, and life progress
– The cultural idea of caring through a...


Ep.230 🍰 Bitesize Basics 🍰 Lunar New Year Dates & Traditions 大年初一去拜年
02/16/2026

This episode is all about the Mandarin you’ll hear during Lunar New Year in Taiwan. 🧧 Mindy and Joeru break down the most common New Year dates and what people usually do on those days — from reunion dinners and visiting relatives to resting, praying, and heading back to work. It’s a practical look at the kind of Mandarin you’ll actually hear during the holiday.

📘 Podcast Notes
Full transcripts and structured study support to help you turn listening into real learning.
Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

🎯 Today’s Topic:
How to talk about Lu...


Ep.229 ☕️ Bitesize Talks ☕️ The 12 Chinese Zodiacs 十二生肖的故事
02/09/2026

As Lunar New Year gets closer, Mindy tells the classic story behind the 十二生肖 (Chinese zodiac) in simple Mandarin. From the zodiac race to the rat, the dragon, and the missing cat, this episode helps you understand where the twelve animals come from — and why people still talk about zodiac signs today.

📘 Podcast Notes
Full transcripts and structured study support to help you turn listening into real learning.
Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

🎯 In this episode, you’ll hear about:

十二生肖 (Chinese zodiac signs): 🐭 鼠 (shǔ)、🐮 牛 (niú)、🐯 虎 (hǔ)、🐰 兔 (tù)、🐲 龍 (lóng)、🐍 蛇 (shé)、🐴 馬 (mǎ)、🐐 羊 (yáng)、🐵 猴 (hóu)、🐔 雞 (jī)、🐶 狗 (gǒu)、🐷 豬 (zhū)

The story behind the...


Ep.228 🍰 Bitesize Basics 🍰 What’s Your Chinese Zodiac? 你屬什麼?
02/09/2026

How do people talk about age in Mandarin — without directly asking? 🧧🐎 In this episode, Mindy and Joeru break down the most common ways to ask and answer age-related questions in Mandarin — and introduce a very Taiwanese twist: using zodiac signs to roughly guess someone’s age. You’ll learn how to talk about age, birth year, and zodiac signs in a natural, conversational way — just in time for Lunar New Year.

📘 Podcast Notes
Full transcripts and structured study support to help you turn listening into real learning.
Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

🎯 Today’s Topic...


Ep.227 🗣 Bitesize Convos 🗣 Social Media in Taiwan 台灣人的社群媒體日常
02/02/2026

If you move to Taiwan, THIS social media app will run your life — whether you like it or not. 📱 In this episode of Bitesize Convos, Mindy and Joeru chat about social media in Taiwan — what platforms people actually use, how different generations use them, and the habits (and problems) that come with being constantly online.

📘 Podcast Notes
Full transcripts and structured study support to help you turn listening into real learning.
Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

🎯 In this episode, we cover:
– Social media platforms commonly used in Taiwan
– Why LINE is essential i...


Ep.226 🍰 Bitesize Basics 🍰 Using LINE in Mandarin 我打LINE給你
02/02/2026

How do people actually use LINE in Taiwan? 💬📱 In this episode, Mindy and Joeru walk you through the most common ways people use LINE in everyday life — from adding a new contact and sending messages to calling friends and even sending money with LINE Pay. You’ll learn practical verbs and expressions that Taiwanese speakers use all the time, in real conversations.

📘 Podcast Notes
Full transcripts and structured study support to help you turn listening into real learning.
Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

🎯 Today’s Topic:
Essential LINE vocabulary for chatting, calling...


Ep.225 🌏 Bitesize News 🌏 Will the NTD Depreciate? 新台幣貶值疑慮
01/28/2026

In this episode of Bitesize News, Joeru and Amber unpack the latest headlines around the New Taiwan Dollar (NTD) following the conclusion of Taiwan–US tariff negotiations. We break down what exchange rates actually mean, why Taiwan’s investment commitments to the US are raising concerns about currency depreciation, and how economists interpret the short-term and long-term impact on the NTD.

本集將用清楚、易懂的中文新聞語言,帶你了解什麼是匯率、新台幣為什麼會出現「貶值疑慮」,以及這類經濟新聞和一般人的生活有什麼關係。

News source:《台視新聞網》, 2026/01/19, 林品瑄、王秋明 (https://www.gvm.com.tw/article/125373)

📘 Podcast Notes
Full transcripts and structured study support to help you turn listening into real learning.
Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

In this episode, we cover:
– 什麼是「匯率」?為什麼 1 美元兌 30 元台幣很重要
(What an exchange rate actually means, explained simply)
– 台美關稅談判落幕後,台灣承諾...


Ep.224 ☕️ Bitesize Talks ☕️ Popular Apps in Taiwan 台灣人常用的APP
01/26/2026

Have you ever wondered which apps people in Taiwan actually use every day? In this episode, Joeru walks you through the most common mobile apps in Taiwan — from social media to messaging and mobile payments — and explains how locals really talk about them in Mandarin.

📘 Podcast Notes
Full transcripts and structured study support to help you turn listening into real learning.
Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

🎯 In this episode, we cover:
– How to say “app” in Chinese: 應用程式 / App / A-P-P
– Popular social apps in Taiwan: Facebook (臉書 / FB), Instagram (IG), and Threads(脆)
– Why LINE is...


Ep.223 🍰 Bitesize Basics 🍰 Instagram Actions in Mandarin 我常在IG發文
01/26/2026

How do you talk about Instagram in Mandarin? 📱✨
In this episode, Mindy and Joeru break down the most practical Mandarin expressions for using IG — from posting and stories to liking, saving, and sending DMs. You’ll learn how Taiwanese speakers actually talk about social media, using simple, everyday language you can start using right away.

📘 Podcast Notes
Full transcripts and structured study support to help you turn listening into real learning.
Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

🎯 Today’s Topic:
Essential Instagram vocabulary and common actions on social media

🗝 Key Senten...


Ep.222 🗣️ Bitesize Convos 🗣️ Drinking Culture in Taiwan 台灣的飲酒文化
01/19/2026

Do Taiwanese people actually drink a lot? 🍺 In this episode, Mindy and Joeru take a closer look at Taiwan’s drinking culture — when people drink, where they drink, and why drinking in Taiwan feels very different from many Western countries.

From family dinners and 熱炒店 to KTV and cocktail bars, we talk about how alcohol is tied to social context, not daily habit — and how traditional “battle-style” drinking culture is slowly shifting in modern Taiwan.

📘 Podcast Notes

Full transcripts and structured study support to help you turn listening into real learning.

Now Available here: https...


Ep.221 🍰 Bitesize Basics 🍰 Ordering Cocktails at a Bar 我要一杯烈一點的調酒
01/19/2026

Walking into a bar can be intimidating — especially when you don’t know the cocktail names. In this episode of Bitesize Basics, Mindy and Joeru show you a much easier way to order drinks in Mandarin: by describing the base spirit, the flavor, and the feeling you want.

📘 Podcast Notes
Full transcripts and structured study support to help you turn listening into real learning. Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

🎯 Today’s Topic:
How to order cocktails in Mandarin by describing what you want, not naming drinks

🗝 Key Sentence:
我要一杯烈一點的調酒 (Wǒ yào yì bēi liè yìdiǎn de tiáojiǔ...


Ep.220 🌏 Bitesize News 🌏 Trump’s “Donroe Doctrine” & Venezuela Crisis 川普「唐羅主義」與委內瑞拉局勢
01/14/2026

In this episode of Bitesize News, Amber and Joeru break down a major international headline involving Donald Trump and Venezuela — and explain why this story has sparked intense discussion in Taiwan.

本集將用清楚、可理解的新聞中文,帶你拆解「唐羅主義」是什麼、新聞標題裡的關鍵詞怎麼看懂,以及這起事件為什麼不只是拉丁美洲的事,也牽動台灣人對國際政治與安全的關注。我們會一步步從新聞標題出發,解析重要生詞、句型,再延伸討論不同國家立場背後的政治與經濟因素。

📘 Podcast Notes
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Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

🎯 In this episode, we cover:
– 什麼是「唐羅主義」? (What is the “Tangluo Doctrine”?)
– 為什麼部分委內瑞拉人民支持這次行動? (Why do some people in Venezuela support this action?)
– 這則新聞為什麼在台灣引起高度關注? (Why has this news drawn so much attention in Taiwan?)
– 新聞生詞與句型重點解析 (Key news vocabulary and sentence patterns explained in clear, learner-friendly Mandarin)

🌏 Bitesize News series brings you real-world Mandarin through one timely story every two weeks. Our hosts break down the headlines in clear, structured Chinese, helping B2–C1 learners build advanced listening skills while staying informed. Stay curious — and let the Bitesize Chinese newsroom become your Man


Ep.219 ☕️ Bitesize Talks ☕️ Bubble Tea Culture in Taiwan 台灣手搖飲文化
01/12/2026

If you’ve been to Taiwan, you’ve probably noticed one thing very quickly — drink shops are everywhere. In this episode of Bitesize Talks, Mindy talks about Taiwan’s famous 手搖飲文化 and why bubble tea is much more than just a drink.

📘 Podcast Notes
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Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

🎯 In this episode, you’ll hear about:
– What 「手搖飲」 really means in Taiwan
– How bubble tea grew out of Taiwan’s tea culture
– Why customization, price, and convenience matter so much
– How buying...


Ep.218 🍰 Bitesize Basics 🍰 Ordering Tea in Taiwan 我要一杯紅茶拿鐵
01/12/2026

Ordering drinks in Taiwan can feel overwhelming — so many teas, toppings, sugar levels, and ice options. In this episode, Mindy and Joeru break it down step by step and show you how locals actually order drinks, starting from one simple sentence and building up naturally.

📘 Podcast Notes
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Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

🎯 Today’s Topic: How to order drinks in Mandarin, from tea names to toppings, sugar, and ice

🗝 Key Sentence: 我要一杯紅茶拿鐵。(Wǒ yào yì bēi hóngchá nátié.) - I want a cup...


Ep.217 🗣️ Bitesize Convos 🗣️ Study Plan for 2026 制定2026的學習計畫
01/05/2026

Setting a study plan sounds simple — but why do so many learners end up feeling stressed, bored, or stuck? In this episode, Mindy and Joeru talk about how to 制定學習計畫 (set a study plan) in a way that’s realistic, flexible, and actually sustainable. From exam preparation experiences to language learning routines, we break down what works, what doesn’t, and why copying other people’s methods often backfires.

📘 Podcast Notes
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Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

🎯 In this episode, we cover:
–...


Ep.216 🍰 Bitesize Basics 🍰 Good & Bad Habits in Mandarin 好習慣和壞習慣
01/05/2026

New year, new habits! ✨ In this episode, Mindy and Joeru dive into one of the most practical topics for the start of 2026 — how to talk about the habits you want to build and the habits you want to quit in Mandarin. From classics like “sleep early, wake early” to deeper lifestyle changes like 記帳、投資理財、斷捨離, you’ll learn natural patterns you can use right away.

📘 Podcast Notes
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Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

🎯Today’s Topic:
How to express good and bad habits in Mandarin


Ep.215 🌏 Bitesize News 🌏 Bear Attacks in Japan 日本熊害
12/31/2025

In this first episode of Bitesize News, Joeru and Amber break down a shocking rise in bear attacks across Japan — a record-high number of injuries and deaths that is now affecting autumn travel, local safety, and national policy.

本集討論今年日本「熊害事件」為何創新高、背後的環境因素、政府的因應措施,以及你在賞楓、登山或滑雪時應該知道的安全指南。

News source:《遠見》GVM, 2025/11/05, 陳育晟 (https://www.gvm.com.tw/article/125373)

📘 Podcast Notes
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Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

🎯 In this episode, we cover:
– 今年日本熊害事件為何創下史上新高 (Why bear attacks in Japan hit a historic high this year)
– 氣候變暖與棲地破壞如何導致熊頻繁下山 (How climate & habitat loss pushed bears closer to humans)
– 政府出動自衛隊,社會對「撲殺 vs 生態修復」的討論 (Government response: Self-Defense Forces and public debate)
– 賞楓、登山、滑雪等旅遊活動的防熊自保指南 (Safety guidelines for travelers...


Ep.214 ☕️ Bitesize Talks ☕️ Celebrate New Year’s Eve 跨年做什麼?
12/29/2025

New Year’s Eve in Taiwan is more than just a countdown. In this episode, Joeru talks about what 「跨年」 really means, how it’s different from 「過年」, and why the countdown near 台北101 is such a big thing. From fireworks and concerts to staying in with friends, this episode shares real-life Mandarin you’ll actually hear around New Year’s.

📘 Podcast Notes
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Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

🎯 In this episode, you’ll learn:
– What 「跨年」 means, and how it’s different from 「過年」
– Why January 1st (元...


Ep.213 🍰 Bitesize Basics 🍰 5 Useful Patterns to Make New Year Wishes
12/29/2025

Ready to set your New Year goals—in Mandarin? ✨ In this episode, Mindy and Joeru walk you through five essential patterns for expressing wishes, plans, and intentions. From light ideas to firm commitments, you’ll learn how Mandarin subtly changes depending on how serious you are about your goals. Perfect for starting 2026 with clarity and confidence!

📘 Podcast Notes
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Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

🎯 Today’s Topic
How to express New Year wishes, hopes, plans, and decisions in natural Mand...


Ep.212 中文的「冷笑話」🥶🙄 Why Taiwanese Love Bad Jokes
12/22/2025

Why do Taiwanese people love 冷笑話 so much? In this episode, Mindy and Joeru break down the world of Chinese “cold jokes” — the jokes that make you question your life choices… and then laugh anyway. From simple Q&A riddles to Taiwan’s signature 諧音哏 (sound-based puns), you’ll learn how these jokes work, why they’re everywhere, and how to catch the hidden punchline like a local.

📘 Podcast Notes
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Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

🎯 In this episode, you’ll learn:
– What “冷笑話” origi...


Ep.211 🍰 Bitesize Basics 🍰 It’s So Cold! 今天好冷喔!
12/22/2025

Feeling chilly lately? ❄️ In this episode, Mindy and Joeru teach you how to say “It’s cold” in Mandarin — from the simple 很冷 (hěn lěng) to fun, expressive phrases like 冷死了!(lěng sǐ le!) and 冷得要命!(lěng de yàomìng!). You’ll also learn how “cold” can describe not just the weather, but even a bad joke — the famous 冷笑話 (lěng xiàohuà)!

📘 Podcast Notes
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🎯 Today’s Topic: Ways to express “cold” in Mandarin and how Taiwanese people stay warm in w...


Ep.210 ☕️ Bitesize Talks ☕️ When Do Taiwanese People Feel “Cold”? 台灣人的「冷」
12/15/2025

What temperature counts as “cold” in Taiwan? 🧣 In this episode, Mindy talks about how Taiwanese people define “cold” — and why locals start wearing puffy jackets and using hand warmers as soon as the temperature drops below 20°C!

📘 Podcast Notes
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Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

In this episode, you’ll learn:
– How “cold” feels different in a tropical, humid climate
– Common winter habits and phrases you’ll hear in Taiwan
– Why Taiwanese people say they’re afraid of wet cold, not dry co...


Ep.209 🍰 Bitesize Basics 🍰 It’s Raining! 下雨了!
12/15/2025

Is it pouring or just a drizzle? 🌧️ In this episode, Mindy and Joeru teach you how to describe rainy weather in Mandarin — from light drizzle (下毛毛雨) to heavy downpour (下大雨) — and how to sound more natural using the pattern 雨下得~. You’ll also learn everyday words like 打雷, 閃電, 淋雨, and the funny expression 落湯雞 (“soaked like a wet chicken” 🐔).

📘 Podcast Notes
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Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

🎯 Today’s Topic: How to talk about rain and humid weather in Mandarin

🗝 Key Sentence: 雨下得很大!(Yǔ xià de hěn dà!) – It’s raining heavily!

🗣 Listener Challenge:


Ep.208 餐桌上的台灣文化!🍽️🥢 Taiwanese Dining Manners
12/08/2025

In this episode, Mindy and Joeru dive into Taiwanese dining etiquette — from waiting for elders to start eating, to using public chopsticks, to why you should never stick your chopsticks straight into your rice. They also compare how dining culture in Taiwan differs from Western table manners — where everyone has their own plate and sticking to utensil order matters!

📘 Podcast Notes
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Now Available here: https://ko-fi.com/bitesizechinese

In this episode, we cover:
– Common do’s and don’ts at a Taiwa...