Mosaic of China

Oscar Fuchs

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An English-language podcast showcasing people who are making their mark in China. 一个轻松愉快的英语播客，展示了一群目前正在中国留下印记的人。

[Re-Release] Lissanthea TAYLOR, Parkway Health

This is a re-release of Season 01 Episode 28: The Pain Whisperer (Lissanthea Taylor, Pain Management Practitioner) Chapters 00:00 - Intro 02:20 - Part 1 17:52 - Part 2 Subscribe to the PREMIUM version, see the visuals, and/or follow the full transcript for this episode at: https://mosaicofchina.com/season-03-rerelease-lissanthea-taylor Join the community: Instagram https://instagram.com/oscology LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/mosaicofchina Facebook https://facebook.com/mosaicof

Sep 19, 2023 • 23:18

[Re-Release] Emily MADGE, Sea Life

This is a re-release of Season 01 Episode 14: The Aquarium Queen (Emily Madge, Asia Head of Conservation, Sea Life). Chapters 00:00 - Intro 02:20 - Part 1 18:28 - Part 2 Subscribe to the PREMIUM version, see the visuals, and/or follow the full transcript for this episode at: https://mosaicofchina.com/season-03-rerelease-emily-madge Join the community: Instagram https://instagram.com/oscology LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/mosaicofchina Facebook https://facebook.com/mosaicofchina

Jul 31, 2023 • 25:36

[Re-Release] Björn DAHLMAN, Clowns Without Borders

This is a re-release of Season 02 Episode 17: The Swedish Clown (Björn DAHLMAN, Clowns Without Borders).   This is the full version, including content that was previously only available on the PREMIUM version of Mosaic of China.   Chapters 00:00 - Intro 02:32 - Part 1 32:20 - Part 2   Subscribe to the PREMIUM version, see the visuals, and/or follow the full transcript for this episode at: https://mosaicofchina.com/season-03-bonus-rerelease-bjorn-dahlman Join the community: Instagram https:

Jul 18, 2023 • 43:07

Mosaic of China with Oscar Fuchs: Bonus Episode from The Bridge (CGTN)

Around the same time as launching Mosaic of China, I also embarked on a period of study at Shanghai Jiaotong University, starting with a course in Mandarin language followed by a Masters in Modern Chinese Studies. In today's special bonus episode, I discuss a little of what I learnt with Jason Smith and Beibei from CGTN's 'The Bridge' podcast. In our chat recorded earlier this year, we talk about Chinese philosophy, as well as some of the similarities and differences between life in China versus

Jun 27, 2023 • 14:07

The Death Companion (ZHOU Yan, Hospice and ’Death Café’ Volunteer)

In three seasons of the Mosaic of China podcast, we've already covered a large chunk of the A-Z of life in China. In today's episode, we're fast-forwarding to the end, not just because Zhou Yan's name starts with a 'Z', but because we're talking about the subject of death.   In her work as a volunteer in hospices and 'Death Cafés' in Shanghai, Zhou Yan is doing more than just dispelling the superstition and stigma that surrounds the subject of death in China. She also demonstrates how to live l

Jun 6, 2023 • 54:43

The Airline Pilot (Michael HUNDEGGER, A320 Flight Commander)

To many, the image of an airline pilot conjures up thoughts of confident commanders in crisp tailored uniforms, living a life of excitement, romance and adventure. But what about the life of an airline captain in China?   In today's episode with Michael Hundegger, we have a good-humoured conversation about the culture of commercial aviation in China. Yes, there's still the romance and the adventure. Of course there's also the procedures, the strict hierarchy, and the grunt-work. But more than th

May 23, 2023 • 41:19

The Gemstone Buff (Christina CHAO, Gemologist)

There's a field of academic study that sits at the intersection of geology and fashion, and that's gemology: the study of gemstones. Identifying, categorising and grading gemstones is a specific skillset, but valuation can be more subjective, particularly when it comes to regional variances such as with the inordinate popularity of jade in China.   Christina Chao is a gemologist and jewellery designer in Shanghai, who is passionate about translating the science of gems into the art of jewels. An

May 9, 2023 • 43:14

The Wine Devotee (Bertrand CRISTAU, XiaoLing Estate)

In the 1840s, French missionaries attempted to enter Tibet, and kept getting pushed back to an area at the Northwestern tip of modern-day 云南 [Yúnnán] Province. Today, this region preserves an astonishing and unique mix of Tibetan, Chinese, French and Catholic traditions.   As part of that legacy, there are now villages of Catholic Tibetans that have perpetuated the art of winemaking first bequeathed to them over almost two centuries ago. And in today's episode, Bertrand Cristau explains how he f

Apr 25, 2023 • 33:07

The Sportswear Strategist (KIM YoungAh, adidas)

Things are finally looking up for international sportswear brands in China in 2023. For the previous few years, almost all brands were suffering due to instability of the market during COVID and the rise in popularity of Chinese domestic competitors. With this as the backdrop to our conversation - recording last year - a big thanks goes to today's guest Kim YoungAh for offsetting these heavier topics with a very lighthearted and cheerful conversation about her career in merchandising at Nike, a

Apr 11, 2023 • 33:10

The Stunt Man (Frank ABEL, Binhai Aircraft Carrier Theme Park)

In 1996, China acquired a decommissioned Soviet aircraft carrier, with the express intention of using it as the centrepiece of a theme park in the city of 天津 [Tiānjīn]. Today, the 濱海 [Bīnhǎi] Aircraft Carrier Theme Park is still operative, and the enormous ship stands as the backdrop of a pirate stunt show.    Today’s episode is with Frank Abel, who has been coordinating these stunts since 2012, as well as building and maintaining the modified stunt vehicles on display. A veteran stunt man, Fra

Mar 28, 2023 • 43:17

The Dragon Burner (Francesca VALSECCHI, Dragon Burn)

By now you've probably heard about Burning Man, the festival that in recent years attracts over 80,000 participants to the deserts of Nevada. But did you know that there's an equivalent event in China called Dragon Burn (龙焰)?   Today's guest on the Mosaic of China podcast is Francesca Valsecchi, a professor at Tongji University in Shanghai and one of the active participants behind Dragon Burn. In our fun and wide-ranging chat, we discuss how she combines these two worlds under the principles of

Mar 14, 2023 • 48:45

Mosaic of China with Oscar Fuchs: Bonus Episode from China Flexpat

I don't often talk about my career before podcasting. But in today's special bonus episode, I had the excuse to do just that with Francis Kremer from the China Flexpat podcast. In our chat, recorded back in April 2022, we discuss some of the aspects of podcasting that intersect with my old life as a headhunter and career coach. I hope that some of it is useful, particularly if you're interested in switching careers, or building a personal brand. A big thanks to Francis for giving me permission

Feb 7, 2023 • 17:44

Mosaic of China with Oscar Fuchs: Bonus Episode on ’Codependency’

We've reached the halfway point of Season 03. And following in the tradition from previous seasons, we're marking the occasion with a special bonus episode, and an extra special bonus guest. This particular guest has been a long time coming!   The timing of this episode couldn't be better. Not only does it coincide with the New Year and the run-up to Spring Festival in China, it also coincides with an inflexion point in China as it pivots from Zero-COVID to a new period of openness and opportuni

Jan 17, 2023 • 20:34

The Incurable Optimist (’DAJIANG’, Tourette’s Advocate)

Yes, today's episode is all about what it's like to live in China with Tourette syndrome (妥瑞症). But what it's really about is neurodiversity. Some people still have a defensive attitude towards those of us with mental and neurological conditions, treating them as victims deserving of our fear, pity or even derision. But Dajiang's story reminds us that we should instead focus on dignity, happiness, and mutual understanding.   This doesn't mean that all of us should celebrate our deficiencies, nor

Dec 19, 2022 • 50:04

The Compost Evangelist (Alizée BUYSSCHAERT, Zero Waste Shanghai)

The environment is one of those topics that we all know we need to talk about, but at the same time desperately want to avoid. None of us want to be lectured on all the things we're doing wrong, and none of us need yet another reminder about how the human race is mismanaging its impact on the planet.   So it's a breath of fresh air to have a conversation with someone who is not only passionate about the environment but also... fun. In today's episode, Alizée Buysschaert talks about the way she

Dec 13, 2022 • 44:37

The Hotpot Homo (XIE Xiao, SHQFF & CINEMQ)

There are two themes of today’s show: the first is location, and the second is queer identity. There exist derogatory stereotypes about both, which could be described as either xenophobic or homophobic. Today's conversation touches on the intersectionality of these stereotypes in China, and the way in which we can either casually dispel them or defiantly embrace them. In either case, we can have fun joking about them and stripping them of their venom.   As well as being involved in queer cinema

Dec 6, 2022 • 42:28

The Sleep Coach (Rumbiey MUCHENJE, Purposely Healthy)

Is there anything more pathetically banal than talking about sleep? We all do it, so… who cares? Until recent years, that's what many of us would have said. But these days there's a growing recognition that sleep quality lies at the root of our holistic wellbeing, and is deserving of further investigation.   That's where we encounter a brand new problem. Since issues with sleep do indeed speak to a broader holistic imbalance, how do we even start to deconstruct the cocktail of behavioural, hormo

Nov 29, 2022 • 55:52

The Game Designer (Simon CHAPUIS, Ubisoft)

There are some people who view video gaming at best as a time-wasting distraction, and at worst as a vice. But in listening to today's episode with the game designer Simon Chapuis, even detractors will understand the passion, creativity and teamwork that it takes to usher a game from conception to market. Simon's career has taken him from France to Germany, to Spain and finally to China, where he is now a Senior Game Designer at Ubisoft in the city of Chengdu. His story not only illustrates the

Nov 22, 2022 • 41:17

The Mongolian Teacher (Tsogtgerel BUMERDENE)

The country of Mongolia is sandwiched between Russia and China, and there are ethnic Mongolian areas in all three countries. So when talking about Mongolian people in China, it's not always clear whether you're talking about ethnic Mongolians from the Chinese province of Inner Mongolia [内蒙古 - Nèiménggǔ], or Mongolian nationals from across the border.   Today's episode is with Tsogtgerel ("Tsogi") Bumerdene, a Mongolian national living in China, who wears this mantle of identity every day. But mo

Nov 15, 2022 • 38:01

The Shibari Artist (’LAODAI’) [EXPLICIT Version]

Sometimes big themes can be tackled through the guise of performance art. In previous episodes of the podcast, we have explored how drag performers can teach us to embrace our own weirdness, and how clowns can teach us to embrace our own fallibility. These stories may be specific to China, but they apply to us all.   In today’s very special episode, we explore how the world of Shibari (縛り) has made its way from the world of BDSM to the world of Rope Art, and also made its way from Japan to China

Nov 8, 2022 • 44:00

The Rope Artist (’LAODAI’) [CLEAN Version]

Sometimes big themes can be tackled through the guise of performance art. In previous episodes of the Mosaic of China podcast, we have explored how drag performers can teach us to embrace our own weirdness, and how clowns can teach us to embrace our own fallibility. These stories may be specific to China, but they apply to us all.   In today’s very special episode, we explore how the world of Rope Art has made its way from Japan to China. And we discover how this art form can make us think about

Nov 8, 2022 • 40:50

The Film Director (Elaine HUANG, ’24 Flavors’)

The economic developments of the last three decades in China have propelled forward an entire generation. But when we strive for opportunity and prosperity, are we prepared for the knock-on effects on the people around us? Looking back at this era, how can we understand the human stories hiding in the profit charts?  Elaine Huang is making an independent feature film which explores exactly these themes. In today’s episode, Elaine describes her experiences working in the film industry in China,

Nov 1, 2022 • 49:00

The Robot Maestro (Andrew PETHER, Universal Robots)

Some people still have the outdated image in their heads of China as a country of grim sweatshops and cheap manual labour. In fact, China is the country which boasts the largest number of robots deployed in the world. And that makes it a prime location for one of the newest category of industrial robot: the 'cobot', or collaborative robot.   Today's episode is with Andrew Pether, who has spent a decade in the field of robotics engineering in China, and over eight years working at the global vang

Oct 18, 2022 • 47:54

The Child-Development Champion (Barbara POPPELL, Bright Futures)

They say it takes a village to raise a child. That doesn't just include parents, teachers and care-givers, in China it often also includes grandparents and domestic helpers. Indeed, the raising of kids impacts impatient childless podcasters whose everyday lives also casually intersect with children, whether they like it or not.   We all could use a little help, especially when it comes to knowing when to follow the best practices of our parents, and when it's time to break certain cycles. That'

Oct 11, 2022 • 48:52

The Rural Architect (CHEN Haoru)

China is a country of cities, and mega-cities... and mega-mega-cities. But guess what folks, in between these cities is a whole bunch of countryside. And as we question whether our modern urban lifestyles are truly sustainable, sometimes we need to turn to those places where the answers have been waiting for us all along.   Today's guest - the architect, Chen Haoru - has been searching for these answers from his base in 杭州 [Hángzhōu] for the last twenty years. And this journey has led him to est

Sep 27, 2022 • 41:32

The Barre Star (Siri NORDHEJM, Z&B Fitness and MYbarre Fitness)

I would wager that all of us have stepped foot into a gym or a fitness studio, even if it was to immediately step out again. But that's the point of today's episode with Siri Nordhejm, Co-Founder of Z&B Fitness and MYbarre Fitness. What is it about fitness establishments that gets you passed that line, and what gets you coming back? And is it the same in China as in other places?   As with all episodes of Mosaic of China, we discuss not only what the guest does, but who the guest is. So tune in

Sep 20, 2022 • 50:52

The Gin Peddler (Fergus WOODWARD, Peddlers Gin)

When you think of an alcoholic drink that’s made out of traditional Chinese ingredients, you might not immediately think of… gin. But that’s exactly what came to the mind of Fergus Woodward six years ago when he helped to create Peddlers Gin, China's first and leading craft gin brand.   Today’s episode takes us through Fergus’ story of discovery and distillation, one that has resulted in a gin that proudly showcases both the unique botanicals of China, and the unique persistence of the team behi

Sep 13, 2022 • 44:02

The Comics Custodian (Ashley HUANG, Comic Book Ren)

You don't need to be a fan of comic books to understand their galactic-superhero-sized impact on the Zeitgeist. But what about in China? Are there fans of comic books here? And if so, who are they and what do they look like? The search for answers to these questions has taken the podcast to the city of 成都 [Chéngdū], to find the one and only shop in China totally dedicated to American-style comic books. And if you think that sounds like a unique story, just wait until you hear more about the sho

Sep 6, 2022 • 44:18

The Metaverse Technologist (Eric LIU, DIGITWIN Technologies)

We may not understand it yet, but at this point we’ve all heard about the Metaverse. Some of us can’t wait to embrace it; others are already bitterly opposed to it. But it’s coming, whether we like it or not. In fact, the building blocks of Big Data and Augmented Reality (AR) are already here, we’re just waiting for technology companies to help converge them together.   That’s where today’s guest Eric Liu comes in. The CTO of the China-based company DIGITWIN Technologies (and its sister company

Aug 30, 2022 • 44:35

Mosaic of China with Oscar Fuchs: Season 03 Trailer

Hello, I’m Oscar. In this trailer, I introduce the new features of Season 03 of the Mosaic of China podcast, including the PREMIUM version of the show that's available on: Apple Podcasts Subscriptions https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/mosaic-of-china-premium-apple/id1574444302 Patreon https://patreon.com/mosaicofchina and 爱发电 https://afdian.net/@mosaicofchina   This PREMIUM version will include an average of 10-20 minutes of extra content for every episode, accumulating to over 10 hours of ex

Aug 23, 2022 • 12:50

Mosaic of China with Oscar Fuchs: Bonus Episode from Footprints (CRI)

Being locked into our compounds hasn't been a fun experience for the residents of Shanghai over the last month. But we will survive this inconvenience, and we will hopefully be all the more grateful for the luxuries of living in Shanghai, once they have finally returned.   Oscar could have spent this time preparing for Season 03 of Mosaic of China. But he hasn’t. So the launch of next season is probably still weeks away. However, today we’re including an edited version of the conversation he had

Apr 19, 2022 • 21:43

Season 02 Compilation: Chinese Phrases

If language is one of the most important keys to unlocking a culture, then today's tenth and final compilation episode from Season 02 of the show perhaps represents the epitome of what I’m trying to achieve with Mosaic of China. It's a collection of the voices of 30 people from 30 contrasting backgrounds describing 30 favourite words or phrases in Chinese. With hearts heavy under the burden of world news at the moment, please use this as a much-needed injection of joy and entertainment. And con

Mar 1, 2022 • 27:30

Season 02 Compilation: China Hangouts

In today’s penultimate compilation episode from Season 02, we’re talking about the favourite places people like to frequent in China. Whether you’re looking for recommendations of street food, high-end restaurants, bars, or coffee shops, you should find some inspiration from today’s episode. Chapters 00:00 - Trailer & Intro 00:57 - Main 23:24 - Outro Subscribe to the PREMIUM version, see the visuals, and/or follow the full transcript for this episode at https://mosaicofchina.com/season-02-co

Feb 15, 2022 • 24:46

Season 02 Compilation: WeChat Stickers

We're coming up to the Spring Festival in China, so please consider this to be your Chinese New Year gift. It's the compilation episode of the favourite WeChat stickers from the guest of Season 02. With electronic communications, it’s no longer good enough to learn how to compose compelling messages; you need to be fluent in the language of images. Without including things like emojis and emoticons in our messages, they can come across as cold, blunt, and rude. And there’s arguably no medium wh

Jan 25, 2022 • 21:36

Season 02 Compilation: China Bests & Worsts

In today's special compilation episode from Season 02 of the show, we listen to how 30 people answered the question: “If you left China, what would you miss the most, and what would you miss the least?" There’s no such thing as perfection, living life is about dealing with both the rough and the smooth. The same holds true no matter where you live, or to which cultural identity you feel most affiliated. So it always makes for interesting listening to hear how people from different backgrounds a

Jan 11, 2022 • 25:43

Mosaic of China with Oscar Fuchs: Bonus Episode from The Honest Drink

To mark the final episode of 2021, we're switching away from our usual programming to include an edited version of the discussion that Oscar had on The Honest Drink podcast. Recorded a few weeks ago, the conversation covers many aspects that we don't usually have a chance to explore in Mosaic of China, so I hope you'll enjoy listening to the different themes that emerge. A big thanks to Justin, Howie and Aric for giving permission to share this on the feed for Mosaic of China. The original full

Dec 21, 2021 • 57:26

Season 02 Compilation: China News Sources

Today’s special compilation from Season 02 is all about where people get their news and information from about China. Around the world, news and journalism continues to get more consolidated, more digitalised, and more aggregated onto social media. And China is no exception. But there is still a host of different sources to help people discover more about what's happening on the ground. So I hope you can find a few nuggets of inspiration in today's episode. Chapters 00:00 - Trailer & Intro 0

Dec 7, 2021 • 17:11

Season 02 Compilation: China Purchases

It's that time of year where our thoughts turn to... buying stuff we don't really need. In China, we've just had the annual Singles' Day online shopping bonanza. And the U.S. equivalent of Cyber Monday is coming up next week. So what? As someone who hates shopping, I couldn't care less about what this means, or what people choose to spend their money on. But somehow, when you ask someone the question "What's the best or worst purchase you've made?", you seem to elicit some of the best stories.

Nov 23, 2021 • 21:56

Season 02 Compilation: China Facts

Do you know why Chinese politicians have lustrous black hair? Do you know why you wouldn’t write '1,000,000' in China? And do you know why pandas do handstands? If the answer to any of those question is ‘no’, then you should definitely listen to this week’s compilation episode, where we listen to the favourite China-related facts from all 30 guests of the last season. Chapters 00:00 - Trailer & Intro 00:43 - Main 21:44 - Outro Subscribe to the PREMIUM version, see the visuals, and/or follow

Nov 9, 2021 • 22:51

Season 02 Compilation: China Surprises

This week's compilation episode from Season 02 is about the things which surprise people the most about life in China. No matter whether you're a China outsider or someone who's been living here for decades, there's always something new around the corner to keep you on your toes.   What is it about China that makes you feel the most surprised? It's scale? The pace of change? The way decisions are made here? Think carefully about how you would answer this question, and then see if it corresponds

Oct 26, 2021 • 21:19

Season 02 Compilation: KTV Songs

These days you don't *need* to be a fan of KTV (karaoke) to thrive in China. But it certainly helps to have a favourite song prepared, just in case your friends, colleagues or clients force you to join them for an evening of merriment and microphones... In today's compilation episode from Season 02 of Mosaic of China, we hear from 30 people about their strategies for symphonic survival. Do you agree with any of them? Be sure to get in touch to share your own favourite KTV choices. Chapters 00:

Oct 12, 2021 • 20:40

Season 02 Compilation: China Destinations

As we come up to the October ‘Golden Week’ holidays in China, wouldn’t you like to hear the opinions of 30 people on their favourite travel destinations within Mainland China? Your wish is my command! In today’s special compilation episode from Season 02 of Mosaic of China, we showcase the guests’ travel recommendations, from the beaches of 海南 [Hǎinán] to the mountains of 云南 [Yúnnán]; from the city of 重庆 [Chóngqìng] to the grasslands of 内蒙古 [Inner Mongolia]; and from the wine country of 宁夏 [Ní

Sep 28, 2021 • 23:13

Mosaic of China with Oscar Fuchs: Season 02 Wrap-Up

It's time to reflect on Season 02 of Mosaic of China. So for today's special Wrap-Up episode, I invited Logan Brouse from Tacolicious to interview me, and to share his thoughts on podcasting in China, in the context of the launch of his own upcoming show: 'China on the Rocks'. As well as discussing the past legacy and future development of Mosaic of China, we also discuss the thorny issues of authenticity, profanity, and... the correct way to pronounce 'cicada'. Chapters 00:00 - Trailer & Intr

Sep 14, 2021 • 23:49

The Transgender Teacher (”Jiyoung”)

One of the themes that comes up a lot in Mosaic of China is the idea that people who can span different cultures can often gain a certain superpower when it comes to analysing their own culture. It's that inside/outside perspective that becomes honed when you venture outside the comforts of your cultural paradigm. In today's episode, we extend that idea beyond the realm of cultural identity, and into the realm of gender identity. It's a very special episode with a very special guest, who will b

Sep 7, 2021 • 44:56

The Protocol King (Murray KING, Shanghai Disney Resort)

Murray King is one of those people who took an early bet on China, and applied for a Beijing posting with the Canadian diplomatic service in the 1990s. Fast forward two decades, and he was part of the team that was bringing the Disney experience to China. In today's episode, Murray shares how he continues to apply his experience in negotiation and public relations to his role as the Head of Public Affairs for the Shanghai Disney Resort. We end our discussion on a question that might resonate wi

Aug 31, 2021 • 41:56

The Africa Vlogger (ZHAO Huiling, HuilinginAfrica)

Zhao Huiling was born in Shanghai, and spent the formative years of her life in West Africa. The experience changed her life, and still informs her work - and her world view - to this day. So it's useful for listeners to Mosaic of China to be reminded that culture clashes are not binary; they can happen no matter where you're from, and no matter with what new culture you're confronted. More than just that, Huiling also represents the mindset of the worldly young Shanghainese professional. These

Aug 24, 2021 • 42:19

The Italian Lawyer (Vittorio FRANZESE, Business & Intellectual Property Lawyer)

We all know the old stories about fake goods in China. But the parallel worlds of intellectual property infringement and anti-counterfeit regulation have changed a great deal over the last decade. In today's episode, I talk with the lawyer Vittorio Franzese to reminisce about what it was like when this cat-and-mouse game was at it's peak. Who were the counterfeiters? What actions could the lawyers take against them? How did the high-profile police raids come about? And what part did the big e-co

Aug 17, 2021 • 39:03

The Gourmet Coach (Crystyl MO, The World’s 50 Best Restaurants)

Crystyl Mo has been reporting on the world of restaurants in China for over twenty years, so she has borne witness to the phenomenal growth of the modern Chinese fine dining experience. Now, as an Academy Chair at The World's 50 Best Restaurants, she has also been able to contextualise China's culinary scene on the global stage, and she shares some of her insights in today's episode. Apart from that, Crystyl is an American national who has been stranded for 18 months outside her home of China,

Aug 10, 2021 • 40:04

The Fire Engineer (Michael KINSEY, Arup)

Hot off the press, today’s episode is with the Fire Engineer, Michael Kinsey. Like a moth to a flame, I was fascinated to learn what his job entails. It was a slow burn, but I was soon fired up, and all guns blazing to learn more. To add fuel to the fire, Michael explains in glowing detail how he has blazed a trail in the research between human behaviour and the development of fire-safety guidance for the super high-rise buildings that increasingly adorn the city skylines of China. The episod

Aug 3, 2021 • 34:26

The Investment Maven (Salome CHEN, Property and Technology Developer)

Coinciding with the 100-year anniversary of the founding of the Chinese Communist Party, it's fitting that today's episode includes a family history that spans a similar historical timeframe. Salome Chen is a child of the 清 [Qīng] and 明 [Míng] Dynasties, as well as a child of the modern Chinese property boom. So in many ways she personifies the quirky mix of tradition and moderniity of today's China. The episode also includes a catch-up interview with Lori Li from Season 01 Episode 10. (http

Jul 20, 2021 • 37:30

The Beats Collector (”DJ BO”, International DJ)

What can anyone learn from a DJ? It turns out… a helluva lot, especially when the DJ in question is DJ BO. Based in China for the last decade, DJ BO has led a peripatetic life which has taken him on countless adventures in the pursuit of sharing his love of eclectic music, most famously becoming the first international DJ to ever play a set in North Korea. DJ BO's roots in Asia stem from his early years living in Mongolia, and he now also devotes energy into advancing the knowledge and apprecia

Jul 13, 2021 • 38:29

The Fashion Journalist (Casey HALL, The Business of Fashion)

We started off Season 02 of the podcast with a chat with the Chief Consumer Officer of L'Oréal China. And now that we've reached Episode 22 of the season, it's time to revisit the Chinese consumer from a different angle. Our guest today is Casey Hall, who has spent the last 14 years in China as a journalist, both as the Managing Editor of a city lifestyle magazine network, and most recently as the Asia Correspondent at The Business of Fashion. Focusing on business and lifestyle topics has allow

Jun 29, 2021 • 39:18

The Car Designer (Ajay JAIN, Geely)

China is the world's largest vehicle market, both by manufacturing output and by annual sales. And at the heart of that business is the strategic car designer, someone who can not only plot a future design vision for the company, but can also work in collaboration with engineers and marketers to turn that vision into a reality. Ajay Jain has been designing cars since he could hold a pencil, and it was this passion that ultimately led him to becoming a strategic design manager for the electric v

Jun 22, 2021 • 39:16

The Improv Artist (Michelle QU, The Improviser Alliance)

To make friends with other people, it helps if you share the same sense of humour. So it can sometimes be a challenge to make meaningful friendships with people from other cultures, with whom you don't share the same historical background, comic sensibilities, or even speech patterns. This might be a common story for some people in China, but have no fear, because Michelle Qu is here to explain some of the things that make Chinese people laugh. As an improvisational comedian, Michelle also talk

Jun 15, 2021 • 37:14

The Student Strategist (Seth HARVEY, Education Coach)

The image of the foreigner teacher in China stands for two things. Firstly, it represents one of the most popular ways that someone seeking experience overseas can find their first footing, especially in a place like China. For some people it's a stepping stone into something else in that new country, and for others - like today's guest Seth Harvey - it becomes a gateway into a longer-term career in education. The second thing it represents is a position at the interface of a culture. Working

Jun 8, 2021 • 37:20

The Supermarket Sourcer (Jo MCFARLAND, Sainsbury’s/Argos)

Most of us are guilty of putting items in our shopping trolleys without giving one moment's thought as to where they came from. Jo McFarland doesn't have that luxury, because she's the one in charge of sourcing thousands of items - from around 500 factories in China - for two of the most famous high-street retail names in the United Kingdom, Sainsbury's and Argos. Sourcing manufactured goods may sound a little prosaic, but Jo's story brings the world of factories in China directly to our doorst

Jun 1, 2021 • 35:08

The Swedish Clown (Björn DAHLMAN, Clowns Without Borders)

Any speechwriter will corroborate that you can use the art of self-deprecation to engage an audience in ways that cannot be achieved through other rhetorical tricks. But if you adopt the wrong tone, it can come across as inauthentic, unfunny, and - worst of all - creepy. It takes a surprising amount of thoughtfulness, skill and intelligence to make yourself the subject of derision. Clowns are the monarchs of self-mockery, and today's guest is the King. The Frog King, to be precise. Björn Dahlma

May 25, 2021 • 41:47

The Metal Head (Cassandra CHEN, Inferno Bar)

We can all be guilty of making sweeping generalisations about nationalities and cultures. But not all Dutch are liberal; not all Brazilians can dance, and not all New Zealanders like rugby. So it should come as no surprise to you that not all Chinese people are into pop music. Especially when it comes to Cassandra Chen, who owns 'Inferno', the one and only bar in China that's 100% dedicated to heavy metal. In today's episode, Cassandra discusses the history of Inferno, and it's status as a hub

May 18, 2021 • 29:49

Mosaic of China with Oscar Fuchs: Bonus Episode on ’Connectivity’

Sometimes you don't know quite what you're doing and why you're doing it, until you sit down one day and take the time to evaluate it. And that's the day you might realise that the meaning of your work has somehow morphed into something you hadn't planned. In order to reach this realisation, it helps to be interviewed by a professional journalist! Thank you to Rebecca Kanthor for speaking with me on this special bonus episode to mark the midway point of Season 02. We discuss the ways in which M

Apr 27, 2021 • 21:16

The Island Investor (Douglon TSE, Microdistrict)

Some say that young people are impatient, and are only on the look-out for short-term gratification. Not so with Douglon Tse, who spent his formative years pursuing a long-term vision for his life. This pursuit has led him and his wife to a unique island in China, which he describes very vividly in today's episode. At 30 years old, Douglon is also one of the youngest guests in Season 2 of the podcast. So if you're also young and are thinking about how to make your mark in China, you should fin

Apr 13, 2021 • 36:33

The Culture Curator (Noxolo BHENGU, Ndawo Afrika)

There is a lot being said around the world these days about racism and discrimination. Quite rightly. But pointing fingers and throwing accusations often achieves nothing. The thing that changes attitudes, at a human level, is both fundamentally simple, and embarrassingly difficult. It's casual association. Being casually associated with people from different backgrounds is what leads to a genuine understanding of our commonalities, and a positive exploration of our differences. My conversation

Apr 6, 2021 • 39:50

The Brand Interpreter (Vladimir DJUROVIC, LABBRAND)

When you live overseas, in some ways you take a leap into a new identity. You need to figure out how to fit into a new culture, while remaining true to your authentic self. Well, it's exactly the same story when your brand goes overseas. And when introducing your brand overseas, it's important to get the name right. Vladimir Djurovic is an expert in this field, since he and his team at LABBRAND create Chinese names for Western brands. And it's a fascinating process that requires a basket of ski

Mar 30, 2021 • 37:15

The Aimful Architect (Wendy SAUNDERS, AIM Architecture)

Buildings, buildings, buildings. There has been a decades-long construction boom in China, and behind every building is an architect. Wendy Saunders has witnessed this boom, and as Co-Owner and Principal Architect of AIM Architecture, has created a niche in boutique design projects. In today's episode, we hear how Wendy has teamed up with Chinese clients such as the cosmetics brand HARMAY to bring a modern European design sensibility to the consumer-centric world of retail and hospitality in C

Mar 23, 2021 • 34:13

The Solar Entrepreneur (Alex SHOER, Seeder Energy)

Personally coming from a business background where my main tools of trade have just been a laptop and a phone, I’m always impressed with people with complex and audacious business ideas. And Alex Shoer is one of those people. In today's episode, Alex tells the story of the 'Solarcoaster' - the dramatic ups and downs of the solar industry in China over the last decade. And in this open and honest discussion, we also learn about his own personal reflections on leadership, flexibility, and the na

Mar 16, 2021 • 37:02

The Tibetan Merchant (Danma JYID, Yakma Body Care)

If there's one animal that is synonymous with the Tibetan Plateau, it's the yak. It has historically played a huge role in the diet, culture, and livelihood of the nomadic people of Tibet, and this symbiotic relationship endures until today. My guest today is Danmajyid, who represents a new generation of Tibetans that are worldly, tech-savvy, and yet also know how to honour past traditions. Danma tells the story of how her social enterprise YAKMA is turning nutrient-rich yak milk into high-end

Mar 9, 2021 • 37:12

The Beer Boss (Sean HARMON, Duvel Moortgat)

China is the largest market in the world for beer in terms of volume. And Belgium is a country with a long history of brewing, dating back to the 12th Century. So what better guest to have on the podcast than Sean Harmon, the China head of the premium Belgian beer company Duvel Moortgat, probably best known in China for its brand Vedett. Despite its proud status in Belgium, Duvel Moortgat started its life in China with a youthful start-up mentality, and this spirit continues to live within the

Mar 2, 2021 • 35:35

The Handicrafts Designer (Jovana ZHANG, Rong Design Library, PINWU Design Studio)

In China, craftsmen are not always venerated as artisans. Instead, they are often denigrated as low-status workers. But there is a design team based in the Zhejiang countryside that is doing its best to turn this around, curating the myriad ancient crafts that can be found across China before they disappear, and repurposing them for modern usage. This week's episode is with Jovana Zhang, one of the co-founders of the Rong Design Library and the PINWU Design Studio. Her's is not just a story of

Feb 23, 2021 • 38:55

The Performance Exhibitor (ZHANG Yuan, McaM Ming Contemporary Art Museum)

We all know what to expect in a theatre. We all know what to expect in an art gallery. But in which of these worlds does Performance Art belong? One answer is the Ming Contemporary Art Museum (McaM) in Shanghai, and one person who can explain this world is the artist and curator, Zhang Yuan. Yuan's story also helps to paint a picture of the independent art scene in China, and the way in which performance art can convert audience members into active participants, and ultimately into a community

Jan 26, 2021 • 34:14

The Childbirth Guru (Louise ROY, Ferguson Women’s Health)

Pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding should be things that are universally understood around the world. But guess what... they're not. Societal conventions and traditions have created a disassociation between what is 'natural' and what is 'expected', leading to both cultural confusion and generational conflict.   In today's fascinating and eye-opening episode, we discuss these issues with Louise Roy, Director of Patient Support at Ferguson Women's Health in Shanghai. As a prenatal educator, l

Jan 19, 2021 • 39:42

The Bearded Lady (”COCOSANTI”, Drag Artist)

The art of drag, with its emphasis on exaggerated costumes and makeup, has gained mainstream popularity around the world, particularly over the last decade. And China is no exception. While drag in the West can trace its roots from Elizabethan England up to the underground queer scene of New York, drag in East Asia draws its own lineage from the Beijing Opera.   As one of the more prominent members of the drag queen community in Shanghai, Cocosanti joins this week’s episode of Mosaic of China to

Jan 12, 2021 • 34:59

The Peruvian Healer (Katherine WONG, The Andean Apothecary)

Shanghai is one of those magical places where people can somehow become who they were always supposed to be. This is what happened to Katherine Wong, who decided one day to quit her corporate job, and start earning a living by sharing her knowledge of traditional Peruvian remedies with customers in China. Growing up in Peru with a Taiwanese father, a Bolivian mother, and a nanny from the Amazonian jungle, Katherine is perfectly placed to describe the links between Peru and China, as well as ex

Jan 5, 2021 • 28:39

The Streetwise Sinologist (CHANG Chihyun, History Professor)

There are some professors who can justifiably be accused of living in their own little academic bubbles, but Professor Chang Chihyun is not one of them.   In today's episode, Chihyun talks about his experiences in the world of unversity education in China, and shares a few morsels of his knowledge of history and sinology along the way.   The episode also includes a catch-up interview with Tom BARKER from Season 01 Episode 25. (https://mosaicofchina.com/season-01-episode-25-tom-barker).   Chapt

Dec 22, 2020 • 35:13

The Streetside Foodie (Jamie BARYS, UnTour Food Tours)

Food can be a window into a culture. But it can also be a barrier, especially when it comes to street food. Many can be intimidated to communicate with hawkers who often speak with strong dialects. And many can be turned off by hole-in-the-wall establishments, where there's no fancy décor, and definitely no English menu.   Jamie Barys has made it her mission to remove these barriers, by offering tours that uncover some of the hidden delights of Chinese cuisine. In this episode, she reveals some

Dec 15, 2020 • 33:00

The Trend Tracker (Stéphane WILMET, L’Oréal China)

With thirty years at L'Oréal, and fifteen of those in leadership roles in mainland China, Stéphane has made a career of anticipating trends in China, and catering to the needs of the powerful and illusive 'Chinese consumer'.   In this episode, we discuss the art and science of consumer insight analysis, through the prism of the beauty industry. We talk about the correlation between beauty and technology, and observe the new trends that are emerging in a post-COVID world.   The episode also inclu

Dec 8, 2020 • 34:29

Mosaic of China with Oscar Fuchs: Season 2 Trailer

Hello, I’m Oscar. In this trailer, I introduce the new features of Season 2 of the Mosaic of China podcast, including the PREMIUM version of the show that is now available on Patreon (https://patreon.com/mosaicofchina), and the new transcripts of the show (https://mosaicofchina.com/transcripts). The transcripts have been designed for anyone whose first language isn’t English, or for listeners with hearing impairments, or for any English speakers who want to follow the words that are spoken in C

Dec 1, 2020 • 3:32

Season 1 Compilation: Chinese Phrases

If you were asked to name your favourite phrase in Chinese, would you choose something you hear every day in China like 差不多, 哎哟, and 没有? Or would you choose something deeper which reveals layers of meaning like 一山不容二虎, 养儿防老 and 而遇而不可求? In today's final compilation episodes from Season 1, the guests discuss their favourite words and phrases in Chinese. So get ready to make notes in case you want steal any of them for yourself! Chapters 00:00 - Trailer & Intro 01:07 - Main 16:12 - Outro Inst

Sep 8, 2020 • 17:19

Season 1 Compilation: China Hangouts

In today’s penultimate compilation episode from Season 1, we’re talking about the favourite places people like to frequent in China. And since this first season has focused on resident of Shanghai, the resulting answers are a love letter to all the restaurants, bars and cafés of this vibrant world-class city. Whether you’re looking for recommendations of street food, high-end restaurants, bars, clubs, coffeeshops, malls or even supermarkets, you should find some inspiration from today’s episod

Aug 25, 2020 • 21:07

Season 1 Compilation: WeChat Stickers

The Mosaic of China podcast has been designed to have visual elements that can be enjoyed alongside its audio episodes. Today’s show is the biggest test of that theory, since it’s a compilation from Season 1 of the guests’ answers to the question: “What’s your favourite WeChat sticker?”. In the same week that Donald Trump has threatened to ban WeChat from the United States, we take a look at one of the most popular features of the app that’s ubiquitous in China: the sticker function. And as you

Aug 11, 2020 • 19:52

Season 1 Compilation: China Bests & Worsts

This episode will touch a nerve with a lot of people. It’s a compilation of the things that the guests from Season 1 would miss the most and miss the least if they were to leave China. It was designed as a hypothetical question, but has now become a sad reality for those who left China temporarily during the pandemic but now, six months later, still have no way of returning. It is also the one question that elicits answers that might include some of the nuisances and frustrations that you pick

Jul 28, 2020 • 23:15

Season 1 Compilation: China News Sources

The topic of where we get our information has been in centre stage across the world, as societies debate the ideals of press freedom versus the dangers of fake news. So when I asked the 30 guests from Season 1 of the podcast about their favourite sources of information in China, I had no idea what kind of answers I would receive. The picture that emerged is an array of news and information sources, some of them official, others personal; some of them industry-specific, and others in the form of

Jul 14, 2020 • 19:06

Season 1 Compilation: China Purchases

Today marks the halfway point of these ten special compilation episodes that showcase the guests from Season 1 of the show, and I hope you've been persuaded to go back and take a listen to some of the original episodes you may have missed before. If not, let me try yet again to convince you: the theme of today's episode is the best and worst purchases that have been made in China. In a way, this episode is a window into China's shopping culture, and specifically it's unique e-commerce ecosyste

Jun 30, 2020 • 19:28

Season 1 Compilation: China Facts

If you're an annoying person like me, you will love to share little pieces of trivia to unsuspecting listeners. You will think it makes you look clever to those around you, and you will accept their polite silent nods as proof of your awe-inspiring worldliness, oblivious to the reality of your unending tediousness. If any of that sounds familiar to you, then you will love today's special compilation episode from Season 1. Today we listen to how all the guests from the season answered the quest

Jun 16, 2020 • 17:39

Season 1 Compilation: China Surprises

If there's one thing on which almost everyone can agree, it's on China's capacity to surprise. No matter whether you're a China outsider or someone who's been living here for decades, there will always be something to make you stop in your tracks. And this is just as much the case for Chinese people as it is for non-Chinese. Today's special compilation episode from Season 1of the podcast is an anthology of all the things that still surprise the guests about life in China. And listening to these

Jun 2, 2020 • 20:08

Season 1 Compilation: KTV Songs

Today's compilation episode is all about the podcast guests’ favourite songs to sing at KTV, the Chinese version of karaoke. Out of all the questions asked on Mosaic of China, this one elicited the biggest array of emotions: joy, pride, embarrassment and… sheer terror. There’s a reason why karaoke is so popular in China and other East Asian societies with a Confucian heritage: it’s an important catalyst for group social harmony. Unfortunately that doesn’t always guarantee group *vocal* harmony.

May 19, 2020 • 20:34

Season 1 Compilation: China Destinations

In the first of 10 compilation episodes from Season 1, we listen to the guests's answers to the question: "What is your favourite travel destination within Mainland China". The answers range from cities with historical cities to the Gobi desert; from the mountains of Tibet to the lakes of Hangzhou and Nanjing; and from the beaches of Sanya to the Alpine scenery of northern Sichuan. So my question for you today is... where would be *your* favourite travel destination within mainland China? Chap

May 5, 2020 • 17:29

Mosaic of China with Oscar Fuchs: Season 1 Wrap-Up

For this special end of season wrap-up episode, I asked my friend and fellow podcaster Josh Ogden-Davis to join me for a chat. We talk about things like interview techniques, the editing process, and some of the show’s influences. But the main reason for recording this episode was to announce what’s coming next. Chapters 00:00 - Trailer & Intro 00:44 - Main 19:01 - Outro Instagram: www.instagram.com/oscology Facebook: www.facebook.com/mosaicofchina WeChat: www.mosaicofchina.com/wechat

Apr 21, 2020 • 20:53

The Fashion Figure (Octo CHEUNG, Fashion Designer)

The final episode of the season is with the fashion designer Octo Cheung, who epitomises the phrase “East Meets West”. Raised in Hong Kong, trained in Europe, and employed in China, Octo explains how her own cultural development has helped to inform her personal philosophy and design aesthetic. You will find her observations fascinating, no matter how much you care about fashion or clothing. The most intriguing part of Octo’s story is the mystery behind her ultra high-profile private client. Di

Apr 14, 2020 • 28:08

The Beauty Biochemist (Sanford BROWNE, L’Oréal)

We’re almost at the end of Season 1, so I’m very happy to squeeze in an episode with a scientist before the end of the series. Sanford Browne has a background in microbiology and, at the time of recording, was the VP of Research and Innovation at L'Oréal China. He has since been promoted to the SVP position covering all of Asia Pacific and has also moved to Tokyo, so we were lucky to catch him while we could. From a scientific perspective, our discussion ranges from the cuticle angles of hair

Apr 7, 2020 • 23:31

The Pain Whisperer (Lissanthea TAYLOR, Pain Management Practitioner)

My guest today is Lissanthea Taylor, who specialises in rehabilitation and pain management. We have a fascinating conversation about the different ways in which China and the West handle the natural ageing process, short-term and persistent pain, and overall mental wellbeing. And beyond that, we make the distinction between how the brain handles pain versus danger, and how medical practitioners exercise ‘receptivity’ over ‘empathy’. Recorded many weeks ago, this episode also gives us many presc

Mar 31, 2020 • 26:31

The Music Man (Abe DEYO, Tour Manager, Live Nation)

Spending over a decade being a Tour Manager in China for international bands has taken this week's guest, Abe Deyo, to many destinations. In our discussion, we discuss some of his favourites, as well as his experiences on tour and his opinions on music tastes in the Chinese indie scene. I tried to elicit some nefarious stories of the rock and role lifestyle out of Abe, but I promise that our chat remained family friendly. Well.. for the most part. Chapters 00:00 - Trailer & Intro 02:30 - Par

Mar 24, 2020 • 22:15

The Dance Curator (Sabrina CHEN, Shanghai International Dance Center)

As Programme Director of China's first and only theatre complex specifically dedicated to dance, Sabrina Chen knows a thing or two about reading the China arts scene. In our chat, she compares the audiences in Shanghai to those of other cities in China and around the world. To many people (your host included) contemporary dance can at first seem like an esoteric and abstract art form, which can only appeal to a small group of expert connoisseurs. But Sabrina helps to dispel this idea, and her p

Mar 17, 2020 • 27:49

The Consular Kiwi (Tom BARKER, New Zealand Deputy Consul-General)

International diplomacy can deal with matters of global consequence such as trade and the environment. It can deal with the deeply personal aspects of helping nationals in distress overseas. And it can also deal with the mundane drudgery of working in a large bureaucracy. In my conversation with Tom Barker, the New Zealand Deputy Consul-General in Shanghai, we cover all of these aspects in our short time together. I couldn’t possibly talk to a diplomat from New Zealand without bringing up the

Mar 10, 2020 • 26:05

The Ode Decoder (Gigi CHANG, Literary Translator)

We all take translation and translators for granted these days. There are now apps on your phone that can translate inputted text, can magically convert text within photos, and can even simultaneously translate audio as you’re speaking. But once you listen to Gigi Chang talk about the philosophy behind her work translating literary texts, you’ll know that there can be no substitute to the human touch. If you’ve worked in any kind of international arena, you will have had some experience in havi

Mar 3, 2020 • 27:44

The Running Addict (Greg NANCE, Ultramarathon Runner and CEO)

Greg Nance’s business is in China, but his story will resonate with anyone around the world who is addicted to their life pursuits. For Greg, his addictions include ultramarathon racing, and his education business. If you’re a cynic, you’ll immediately be turned off by the idea of listening to someone as positive and accomplished as Greg. And about 5 minutes into our conversation, we talk about this directly. What ensues is an interview that was highly personal and highly unexpected. If you are

Feb 25, 2020 • 36:27

The Immersive Producer (Roz COLEMAN, Sleep No More)

At the time of recording, Roz Coleman was the International Company Manager of the immersive theatre experience “Sleep No More” in Shanghai. This has given Roz a unique appreciation of audience responses in different countries and cultures, and during our short chat she shares some great observations about human behavioural traits in China.   The obvious irony is that our discussion covers audience behaviour in environments where people are crammed together and inhabiting each other’s space. Wel

Feb 18, 2020 • 28:57

The Broadcast Master (YANG Yi, Co-Founder, JustPod)

Yang Yi is a Chinese editor, a broadcaster, and one of the trailblazers in the new world of podcasting in China. He is the host of two podcasts, a culture-themed show called "Left-Right", and a show called "Go! LIVE" where he invites reporters in China to share their eperiences in journalism. And he is also co-founder of the "JustPod" company, which currently produces four original and three branded podcasts. Yi and I discuss his personal experiences of growing up with broadcast media in China

Feb 11, 2020 • 32:31

The Cookie Empress (Lexie COMSTOCK, Strictly Cookies)

Lexie Comstock is the Founder of Strictly Cookies, and we’ve known each other now for over four years. I thought I knew all about her when we sat down for our conversation. But just like an unexpectedly under-baked cookie, Lexie's story was notable for being surprisingly raw in parts. I was amazed to hear what she had been through in the early days of setting up her cookie empire, and inspired by her continued positivity. I apologise in advance for the parts of this interview which make you wan

Feb 4, 2020 • 27:38

The Events Entrepreneur (Stephane DE MONTGROS, Riviera Events)

Stephane de Montgros first came to China as an engineering graduate, and today is the Director of an events and hospitality company. In our conversation, we trace this circuitous career path, and make observations about the current state of the hospitality and tourism industry in China and beyond. If you’re curious to know about how hotels in China are coping with societal, environmental, and technological changes, then this conversation should be a great starting point. Apart from these indust

Jan 21, 2020 • 25:39

The Jewelry Craftsman (Angie WU, AWÜ Studio)

I didn't know I was interested in the art of jewellery design until I met Angie. Maybe that's because I didn't think about the precision of the tool-work; maybe it's because I didn't pay attention to the forms and structure of precious metals; or maybe it's because I've never met anyone as unique as Angie Wu. Angie has a fascinating background, and it was a joy to spend a short time together in her company, and learn about her art and her clientele. I hope you'll enjoy it too. Chapters 00:00

Jan 14, 2020 • 25:03

The Aussie Opportunist (Simon MANETTI, Kantar Consulting)

It's time to relect on the end of the year, and the end of the decade. So as you’re listening to Simon Manetti reflect on his last 10 years of choices and chances in China, take a moment to think about the forces that brought you to where you are today. Some of you might look back on your decade as a series of rational and linear decisions. Well congratulations to you. Personally I relate more to Simon: some rational decision; a few irrational ones thrown in; and otherwise a combination of luck,

Dec 17, 2019 • 26:19

The Urban Artist (Nini SUM, IdleBeats)

Today’s interview is with the artist Nini Sum. We talk about her life and work as the co-founder of IdleBeats, the first independent screen print studio in China, as well as her take on artistic expression and the arts scene in general in China. You’ll notice straight away that she has a very hypnotic way of talking, so this episode should be a nice, slow and relaxing one. Chapters 00:00 - Trailer & Intro 01:00 - Part 1 16:46 - Part 2 24:46 - Outro Instagram: www.instagram.com/oscology Face

Dec 10, 2019 • 27:21

Mosaic of China with Oscar Fuchs - Bonus Episode on ”Community”

We're marking the halfway point of Season 1 by releasing a special episode in which Oscar is interviewed by Shannon Martin, Director of Communications at Podbean, to discuss the topic of "Community".   Since building real and virtual communities is at the heart of the Mosaic of China project, this is a conversation that we felt was worth releasing as a bonus episode. Hopefully it will not only interest you, but also encourage you to contribute your thoughts and comments on WeChat, or on whicheve

Dec 3, 2019 • 16:33

The FinTech Philosopher (Srinivas YANAMANDRA, NDB)

Srinivas Yanamandra ("Srini") is the Chief Compliance Officer at the New Development Bank (NDB), the only multilateral organisation based in Shanghai. Comprised of the BRICS countries of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, the bank has a unique constitution and culture. Srini and I discuss his position in the organisation, with a particular focus on the similarities and differences between China and India. And our conversation soon stretches into many other areas, including his though

Nov 26, 2019 • 30:49

The Aquarium Queen (Emily MADGE, Asia Head of Conservation, Sea Life)

In case you ever feel like complaining about logistics, bureaucracy and red tape in China, spare a thought for Emily Madge, who was part of the team in charge of transporting two beluga whales from Shanghai to Iceland. In today’s episode we discuss this amazing story, as well as track Emily’s experience in the conservation and welfare of marine life in China. With plenty of FISH FACTS thrown in, today’s episode is a great mix of the entertaining and the educational. Big thanks to Emily for bei

Nov 19, 2019 • 28:31

The Prolific Playwright (Nick YU, Artistic Director, Shanghai Dramatic Arts Centre)

This week’s guest is the award-winning Chinese playwright Nick Yu, 喻荣军, who juggles his work as a writer alongside his role as Creative Director at the Shanghai Dramatic Arts Centre. In our conversation, we cover Nick’s two contrasting identities: the sophisticated denizen of the Shanghai arts scene, and the son of a village teacher from the heart of the Chinese countryside. Nick is no stranger to controversy, and is famous in the Chinese theatre scene for pushing the limits of what can be put

Nov 12, 2019 • 31:47

The Refugee Researcher (Yael FARJUN, CEO, ChinaClickGo)

In 2010, Yael Farjun had a chance encounter with someone at the Shanghai Expo, which led her to undertake an amazing research project. We discuss the heroism and humanity of one Chinese man in Vienna, which resulted in an epic migration from Europe to Shanghai. And in so doing, we highlight Shanghai’s unique historical status as a Free Port, and a magnet for people from around the world. Chapters 00:00 - Trailer & Intro 01:33 - Part 1 23:32 - Part 2 28:53 - Outro Instagram: www.instagram.com/

Nov 5, 2019 • 30:52

The Inclusion Architect (Sebastien DENES, Greater China Senior Executive, SAP)

When I first met today's guest, Sebastien Denes, I liked him immediately. But I did question what kind of content he would be able to bring to this recording. Here was another privileged white male in an executive role on an international career track at a multinational organisation. I have spent a large percentage of my career as an executive headhunter in Asia, and I've seen a thousand people like Sebastien. At least that's what I thought. I was wrong. Chapters 00:00 - Trailer & Intro 01:45

Oct 29, 2019 • 34:45

The Luxury Manager (Lori LI, General Manager, Yongfoo Elite)

“Keep it Quiet” is the name of the semi-public bar at Yongfoo Elite, the private members club located in the diplomatic quarter of Shanghai. So I’m especially grateful that its GM, Lori Li, broke her own rules to speak to me in this week’s episode. As well as spilling the beans on the club itself, Lori and I talk about Shanghai’s status as a world centre of style and fashion, and she walks us through the changing interpretation of what luxury means in China. You may think you know how Chinese

Oct 15, 2019 • 31:38

The Workplace Documentarian (Noah SHELDON, Filmmaker)

This week’s episode is with Noah Sheldon, who has been making photos and films of workers in China over the last decade or so. We discuss some of the factory conditions that aren’t covered in much of the world’s reporting on the issue. We talk about the condition of the average migrant worker in China. And we focus in on the lives of one or two people that Noah has encountered as part of his work. To see some of the work mentioned in our conversation, see www.noahsheldon.com. Chapters 00:00 -

Oct 8, 2019 • 25:56

The Sweat Sister (Vy VU, FitFam Community Leader)

Today I’m speaking with Vy Vu. Apart from how much I love the economy of her name, I also love the story of how someone who was feeling lost in Shanghai can ultimately become part of a fitness movement that’s spreading across China and the world. You’ll hear about how FitFam is not just about making people in China fit, it’s also about making them confident, and making them into future leaders. We also talk about how to manage a volunteer organisation, and then how to grow it without compromis

Oct 1, 2019 • 29:32

The Symmetry Breakfaster (Michael ZEE, Instagram Influencer)

Today’s episode is a special one, I’m usually trying to introduce aspects of the lives people lead in China without going over too much familiar territory to China experts. But with today’s episode, my role is reversed. My guest today is Michael Zee, who is a social media influencer with a global fan base on Instagram. However, Instagram is very difficult to access from within China, so there might be listeners to this in China who haven’t ever seen Instagram, let alone come across Michael’s acc

Sep 24, 2019 • 34:02

The Product Pioneer (Gina LI, CEO and Co-Founder, Beach IoT)

“Failure is three meals a day”. You may have heard other tech entrepreneurs talk about how they embrace the idea of failure. But it has never sounded as genuine as when uttered by today’s guest, Gina Li. In our discussion, Gina tells the story of growing up on the Silk Road, embarking on a career in Hip-Hop, and eventually stumbling into the world of innovation and product design. If Gina defines her life as failure served up like three meals a day, then… I’ll have what she’s having. In our di

Sep 17, 2019 • 35:50

The Bubbles Wizard (Jorge LUZIO, China Marketing for Sprite & Fanta at Coca-Cola)

Today’s guest is Jorge Luzio, who works for Coca-Cola as the Greater China Marketing Director for Sprite and Fanta. He’s originally from Venezuela, and has had an international marketing career with Coca-Cola in Caracas, Bogota, Atlanta and Mexico City before coming to China.   Digital marketing in China is a real science, and today’s recording is a masterclass. Jorge discusses how he and his team mix anthropological and societal insights with digital functionality to reveal fascinating insights

Sep 10, 2019 • 33:50

The Symphonic Siren (Astrid POGHOSYAN, Armenian Violinist)

Today’s interview is with Astrid Poghosyan, an Armenian violinist and the first non-Chinese management employee in the 140-year history of the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra. Astrid is the youngest guest in Season One of the podcast, but she has achieved a lot in the nine years that she has been here in China. Astrid and I talk about her passion for music, her passion for Armenia, and her life as an unofficial ambassador for both those parts of her identity. Astrid was in the first batch of gradu

Sep 3, 2019 • 32:46

The China/Africa Correspondent (Eric OLANDER, American Journalist)

My guest this week is Eric Olander, who has been a journalist in China off and on since 1989. His most recent incarnation has been with the China Africa Project, in which he reports on China’s huge and growing influence across that continent. And through that lens, Eric can talk eloquently and knowledgably about many aspects of journalism today, including issues of bias; censorship; his relationship with the public online; the relationship between officials and the online media; and the way in w

Aug 27, 2019 • 43:04

The Chinese Comedian (Maple ZUO, from Inner Mongolia)

This week’s recording is with Maple Zuo, an up-and-coming comedian based in Shanghai. Maple has amazing energy, which I hope you can hear in this conversation. We start off by talking about her comedy set, and how her approach is different in English versus Chinese. But we then veer into some unexpectedly dark territory, so there’s part of this chat which might not be suitable for all audiences. We discuss some interesting details about her family background growing up in Inner Mongolia. Thank

Aug 20, 2019 • 35:48

The Entertainment Prince (Philippe GAS, Disney Shanghai CEO)

At the time of recording, Philippe Gas was the President & General Manager of the Shanghai Disney Resort. Philippe is one of the most charming business leaders I’ve met, and in this interview, we talk about his experiences in the five or so years that he has been with Disneyland in Shanghai, from the tail-end of the construction phase to today, where the Resort has been open for around 3 years. Among other things, we talk about how Philippe managed local and international stakeholders, about

Aug 13, 2019 • 38:46

Mosaic of China with Oscar Fuchs - Season 1 Trailer

Hello, I’m Oscar. In this trailer, I introduce the podcast: why I’m doing it, it’s limitations, the guests lined up for Season 1, the interview format, the visual element and it’s integration with social media. Mercifully, this introduction episode is the most you’ll ever hear my voice. In all future podcast episodes, I’ll be leaving the guest to do most of the talking. Instagram: www.instagram.com/oscology Facebook: www.facebook.com/mosaicofchina WeChat: www.mosaicofchina.com/wechat

Aug 6, 2019 • 3:25