In this episode of Strait Talk, I sit down with Mario Cavolo, a multifaceted writer and actor residing in Shenyang City, Liaoning Province. Mario shares his experiences portraying General Douglas MacArthur in the Chinese historical series Crossing the Yalu River, and we discuss how his character's role in the Korean War connects with my family's history, which led to my relatives living in Shenyang today. Our conversation spans various topics, including the impact of historical events on personal lives and the increasing vilification of China in western media. Mario offers his unique insights into these complex issues, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in history, media, and cross-cultural experiences. Join us for a candid and thought-provoking discussion that bridges past and present, personal and global narratives.

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During my recent trip to Beijing, I had the opportunity to sit down with Li Jingjing, a renowned journalist and vlogger known for her insightful reporting on current events and her engaging portrayal of everyday life in China for an international audience. In this episode, we touch upon a wide a range of topics, including mainland Chinese perspectives on Taiwan, practical ways to foster mutual understanding between people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait, and the broader significance of our work in building bridges between China and the rest of the world. Join us for this insightful conversation aimed at helping you grasp these complex issues and emphasizing the importance of dialogue in today's world.

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Conversations about Chinese hip-hop are incomplete without recognizing the contributions from mainland China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. The discussion also needs to address the connections to American hip-hop, the origin of the genre. Our guest, Detroit Showtyme, a hip-hop enthusiast from Detroit who moved to Shanghai in 1999, played a significant role in nurturing authentic Chinese hip-hop culture over the last quarter century. We delve into the history and evolution of Chinese hip-hop and tackle intriguing topics, including the debated issue of cultural appropriation within the genre. Whether you're interested in China, cross-strait dynamics, hip-hop, or Detroit, you're in for a very special treat.

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