Tricolor Chinese Culture Podcast
This podcast features conversations about what makes Chinese culture unique and how that might impact building deep and meaningful relationships in a Chinese context. It aims to promote a more nuanced understanding and appreciation for Chinese culture.
Episodes
Beyond Translation: 慢慢来
慢慢来 (màn màn lái): Learning the Pace of LifeWhat does it really mean when people in China say 慢慢来 — “take it slowly”?In this final episode of Season 5: Beyond Translation, host Stephanie Wendler explores how this simple phrase reflects a much deeper cultural mindset around patience, trust-building, learning, and healing. Joined by Xi’an-based teacher, KK, the conversation moves beyond translation
Beyond Translation: 麻烦
麻烦 (máfan): The Awareness of InconvenienceWhat does it really mean when someone in China says 麻烦?Often translated as “trouble” or “inconvenience,” 麻烦 is a word that appears everywhere in daily life. It can mean please, sorry for the trouble, this is complicated, or even thank you for the effort. But beneath all of those meanings is something deeper: an awareness of how our actions affect the peopl
Beyond Translation: 关系
关系 (guānxi): The Power of ConnectionWhat does it really mean when people in China talk about 关系?Often translated as “connections” or “relationships,” 关系 is about far more than simply knowing the right people. It reflects networks of trust, reciprocity, loyalty, and mutual responsibility that quietly shape everyday life in China.In this episode of our Beyond Translation season, host Stephanie Wendl
Beyond Translation: 加油！
加油 (jiāyóu): Encouragement You Can FeelWhat does it really mean when someone in China says 加油?Often translated as “keep going” or “you can do it,” 加油 is more than just a phrase of encouragement. It shows up in moments of effort, exhaustion, and perseverance—whether on a race course, before an exam, or in the middle of something difficult.In this episode of our Beyond Translation season, host Steph
Beyond Translation: 面子
面子 (miànzi): More Than Just “Face”What does it really mean when someone in China talks about 面子?Often translated as “face,” 面子 goes far beyond reputation or pride. It shapes how people communicate, how they handle disagreement, and how they protect one another’s dignity—sometimes in ways that aren’t immediately visible to outsiders.In this episode of our Beyond Translation season, host Stephanie W
Beyond Translation: 辛苦
辛苦 (xīnkǔ): Seeing the Effort Behind the WorkWhat does it really mean when someone in China says 辛苦了?Often translated as something like “you’ve worked hard,” 辛苦 goes beyond simple gratitude. It acknowledges the effort, endurance, and unseen labor behind what someone has done. It’s a way of recognizing not just the action, but the weight someone carried to make it happen.In this episode of our Beyo
Beyond Translation: 热闹
热闹 (rènao): When Life Gets LoudWhat does it really mean when someone in China says a place is 热闹?Often translated as lively or bustling, 热闹 is about more than noise or crowds. It reflects a deeper cultural appreciation for shared spaces, community energy, and the feeling that life is happening all around you.In this first episode of our Beyond Translation season, host Stephanie Wendler is joined b
Season 5 Trailer: Beyond Translation言外之意
What happens when words mean more than what the dictionary says?The Tricolor Chinese Culture Podcast returns for Season 5 with a deeper exploration into the language of everyday life in China—where words are not just definitions, but reflections of relationships, values, and lived experience.This season, Beyond Translation, dives into Chinese expressions that resist simple explanation. These are t
S4 "Suitcase Stories" E7
In this episode, we sit down with two educators from XIS’s secondary department, Liz Li and Jonathan Venneberg. Liz shares her observations as a coworker, friend, and cultural guide to our foreign staff, while Jonathan offers a dual viewpoint as both a current foreign staff member and an XIS alumnus from the Class of 2018, speaking to the experience of navigating China as both guest and host.We al
S4 "Suitcase Stories" E6
Both within and beyond XIS, Luke and Kiko have had countless opportunities—through a range of professional and personal experiences—to observe and engage with 外国人 (foreigners). In addition to the warm smiles they offer in the Xi’an International School office, they bring valuable wisdom and insight for anyone seeking to live well in China.At the end of the episode, we also hear from Hayden Feeney,
S4 "Suitcase Stories" E5
In this episode, we’re joined by long-time friend of Xi'an International School, Steven Hou. From teaching middle school English at an international school, to working with engineers at an IT firm in Shanghai, and now consulting Chinese families on college admissions abroad, Steven brings a wealth of experience working across cultures. We’ll also hear some perceptive cultural insights from XI
S4 Suitcase Stories E4
In this episode we get to hear "suitcase stories" from a local friend outside of the XIS community. Audrey's work as a teacher and translator and her involvement with English corners have given her lots of opportunities to interact with and build relationships with foreigners in China and she has some great insights to share. We also get to hear G10 student, Kimi Lee, share a collab
S4 Suitcase Stories E3
In this conversation we get to hear from our very own Miss Harris (XIS Principal) and Niu Laoshi (lead for XIS' Chinese language program)! Both of them have a lot of experience (and stories!) of watching new arrivals come and adjust to their new life here in China and at XIS. We also learn some important cultural tips from XIS G10 student, Helina Ju, as well as learn the idiom, "因地制宜“/ ”
S4 Suitcase Stories E2
This is a special episode, where two of XIS's summer interns, Laura and Andrea Gonzalez, interview XIS G5 teacher, Tori Vaughn, about her "suitcase stories". We also get a great opportunity to learn some valuable lessons from XIS G11 student, Uri Kim as well as learn the idiom, "礼尚往来“/”Courtesy demands reciprocity".
S4 Suitcase Stories E1
,We get to hear some great advice from XIS G11 student, William Zhang, that includes the idiom, "入乡随俗“/ "When you enter the village follow their customs." We also get a chance to hear from XIS's former G2 teacher, Sidney Stewart: What she brought with her, all that she gained and learned during her stay in China, and what she wants to take back to her passport culture.
Season 4 "Suitcase Stories" Promo
This season: Suitcase Stories — exploring the deeply personal journeys of going and staying in China. What do we pack when we cross cultures? What do we carry home? And what transforms us along the way?From unexpected discoveries to hard-won lessons, these conversations dive into what makes Chinese culture unique and how it shapes us. Hear stories about the things we carry, the things we leave beh
S3 E5恭喜发财May you have a prosperous new year! (CNY Part 2)
In this episode we get to hear Kevin Hu and Lucy Liu, two local friends, give explanation of and insight into some of the traditions of CNY as well as share some of their favorite memories. I learned a lot from this conversation and am excited to share it with you.Also we get a chance to learn about 红包/hóngbāo/red packets from XIS senior, Asher Wendler.We would love your feedback on this season o
S3 E4 新年快乐Happy New Year (CNY Part 1)
Chinese New Year (CNY) is so big that it needs at least 2 episodes. In this episode (Part 1) we get the "outsider's" perspective with Paul and Analisa. They share what it's like celebrating this important holiday with local friends and what they have learned about the holiday and Chinese culture through their experiences. We also get to hear April Carrillo share her favorite CN
S3 E3 端午安康Dragon Boat Festival
What do dragon boat races, a patriot-poet named Qu Yuan, zongzi (glutinous rice- with filling- steamed in bamboo leaves) and fragrant pouches have in common? They are all connected with a holiday that falls on the 5th day of the 5th month of the lunar calendar.In this episode we will talk with Louisa Xia and Athena Hao about their understanding of and experiences with Dragon Boat Festival.We also
S3 E2清明节安康Tomb Sweeping Festival
Tomb sweeping festival (清明节qīngmíngjié) may be observed in the early spring (April 4 or 5) but learning about the meaning and traditions associated with it can give us insight into Chinese culture that is helpful no matter what season we're in. This episode features a conversation with He Laoshi (Teacher He) as well as a conversation with DeAnn, an American that has taught English in China f
S3 E1中秋节快乐Happy Mid-Autumn Festival
,With Mid-Autumn Festival right around the corner, it's a great time to get a taste for the season through stories. In this episode, Melinda Tan and Deborah Liu share their hometown and away from home memories and experiences with Mid-Autumn Festival .At the end of the episode we also get to hear Kyle Ju tell the famous Mid-Autumn Festival legend of Houyi and Chang'e.
S210 第二故乡Second Home
This episode features a conversation with my good friends, Steve and Linda. They share about their experiences when they first arrived in China back in the late 80's/early 90s, what they've loved about their lives in China over the almost 3 decades they've spent here, and the deep friendships they've made along the way.At the end of the episode, XIS senior, Joseph Kim, teaches
S2E9 做积极的倾听者Leading and Listening
This episode features XLIS Deputy Head of School, Brian Lalor. Brian shares with us what he's learned about culture and life as he's lived and been a leader in Xi'an as well as in other cross-cultural contexts in Asia.At the end of the episode, XIS senior, Abraham Kim, teaches us some Chinese history and a life lesson through the idiom, "纸上谈兵/zhǐshàngtánbīng/To discuss battle t
S2E8 跨文化桥Building Bridges
In this episode, Blake and Rachel, long-time local staff here at Xi'an International School, share the major cultural differences that they've observed over the years, where cultural misunderstandings are more likely to happen between Chinese and foreign staff, and how to build bridges between the cultures.At the end of the episode, XIS senior, Kevin Kang, teaches us the Chinese idiom, &
S2E7 孟母三迁The Greatness of a Mother's Love
In this episode, one of our newer Chinese staff members at Xi'an International School shares about her cross-cultural experiences and what has surprised her about working with people from different cultures. She also shares about her family dynamics growing up and what's important to her with her own family now.At the end of the episode, XIS grade 11 student, Hanna Jung, teaches us the C
S2E6 左邻右舍融洽Harmonious Neighbors
In this episode I get to have a conversation with my friend and neighbor, Xiao Xiao. She shares what she's learned to appreciate about China through her own cross-cultural experiences as well as her thoughts on education and what is valuable to her.At the end of the episode, XIS junior, Abby Carrillo, teaches us the Chinese idiom, "埋头苦干"/to bury your head in hard work.We'd love
S2E5 三人行必有我师The Posture of a Learner
In this episode we get to hear Mike and Karla share about what they love about living in China and what they learned about themselves and Chinese culture during their transition to life in China.At the end of the episode, XIS Grade 11 student, Kevin Lee, teaches us the Chinese idiom, "举手之劳"/"As easy as lifting one's finger".Thanks for your feedback! https://form.jotform.co
S2E4内外有别Insiders and Outsiders Are Different
In this episode I am joined by Stephan and Robin. They share their experiences of adjusting to life in China as a family and what they learned about themselves and the culture during and post language school.At the end of the episode, XIS grade 10 student, Paul Yao, teaches us the Chinese idiom, "滥竽充数"/ playing the "flute" to make up the numbers".Thanks for your feedback!
S2E3 一步一个脚印Every step leaves its print
In this episode we get to hear about Chinese language learning from the Chinese teacher's perspective. Xia laoshi and Li laoshi share what they've learned about the language learning process from their experiences both as teachers and students.At the end of the episode, XIS Grade 10 student, Rui Yang, teaches us the idiom, "叶公好龙"/"Ye gong's fondness of dragons"We
S2E2 千里之行始于足下 A thousand mile journey begins with the first step
In this episode I'm joined by Audra and Ben, two more recent additions to the Xi'an International School teaching staff. They share about their Chinese language learning journey: What they thought it would be like, what it's actually like and what they have learned along the way.At the end of the episode, XIS senior, Paulina Yao, shares about the idiom, "邯郸学步“/"To copy the
S2E1 活到老学到老As long as you're alive- Keep Learning!
It's a brand new season of TriColor and our first few conversations of the new season will be focused on Chinese language learning. This episode features Paul Wendler and Daniel Hovey discussing their language learning journey, when first started learning Chinese and now.After the conversation, one of our Xi'an International School Students tells the story behind and how to use the 成语/ch
归属感Sense of Belonging
This episode features a conversation with Saloam. Saloam has lived and worked in China for more that 10 years and shares some of her cultural adaptation journey and what she's learned about herself and China as she's moved back and forth between cultures.We would really appreciate your feedback! Please take a few minutes to fill out the form in the link below and help us as we prepare fu
茶道The Way of Tea
To quote Ralph Waldo Emerson, "Some people will tell you there is a great deal of poetry and fine sentiment in a chest of tea." I would also say there is a great deal of culture in a cup of tea. In this conversation, my friend Tracy and I explore tea culture in China.
相辅相成Mutual Understanding & Respect for a Successful Journey
In this episode, Fausto, He Laoshi, shares his thoughts on crossing cultural borders and what he thinks it takes to have healthy relationships and collaborate with those from other cultures.
万事起头难The Challenge of New Beginnings
In this episode I talk with Jessica, a newer arrival to China. Jessica shares her reflections on the quote, "When we cross cultural borders, the burden of change is on us" as well as what she has learned through this big transition.
落叶归根Leaves Return to Roots
In this episode I talk with two Xi'an International School graduates about their lives growing up in China. We discuss what's been challenging for them, what they've enjoyed, what they've learned and what they hope to take with them as they return to their passport country.
入乡随俗 Do As the Locals
In this episode I will be talking with Stephanie and Lucy about being a good guest as we travel and enjoy all that China has to offer. Both of them have worked in the travel industry for many years and have a lot of experience interacting and working with foreigners visiting and living in China.
枪打出头鸟The Bird that Stands Out
In this episode I talk with Joy Zhu about some of the cultural differences between a Chinese school setting versus an international school setting and how that influences communication and how we get things done.
Episode 07 Building Relationships with Jeff and Carol
This episode's guests, Jeff and Carol, have lived in China for close to 40 years and have had a lot of experience building relationships, learning what promotes deep relationships and what might get in the way.
Episode 06 Conflict... with Louisa
In this episode we will discuss conflict. Louisa shares experiences she has had and what she's learned about conflict while working and leading in a cross-cultural environment.
Episode 05 Friendship with Sarah
In this episode we will discuss the topic of friendship with Sarah. Sarah and her husband, Nic, along with their three daughters, live in southwest China. They have called this part of China home for the past 12 years. Their work includes providing social care for marginalized populations. Sarah has learned a lot about making friends during her time in China and shares her experiences with us.At t
Episode 04 Friendship with Jackie
In this episode I will be talking about friendship with my friend Jackie. Jackie grew up in China and is currently living in China, but she is also married to an American and has spent time living in the U.S.
Episode 03 Hospitality with Niu Laoshi
This conversation is with Niu Laoshi (Teacher Niu). Niu laoshi is the lead teacher of the Chinese language department at a K-12 international school in China. She will be sharing her own experiences of being hosted by westerners as well as what she has learned about interacting with co-workers from other cultures.
Episode 02 Hospitality with Andi
In this episode I have a conversation about hospitality with Andi. Andi is an American who has lived in China for several years and has had a lot of experience hosting and being hosted.
Episode 01 Hospitality with Teacher Li
In this episode, Teacher Li, Li laoshi, will be joining me to talk about hospitality and what it means to be an acceptable guest and host in a Chinese setting. We will also hear a bit from an American university teacher in China and some of the lessons she's learned about practicing hospitality in a Chinese setting.
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