All four Friday Rti members are back to discuss Taiwan's reinstatement of an incentive lottery for return travelers. Then, Joey invites us to compare Taiwan's MRT to those in Japan, following a Youtuber's comments on the same thing.

We brought all our Friday news crew (Amanda, Tristan, and Michelle), to welcome the newest member of our team: Joey Chou! While some of you may know him from his disk jockey days on other stations, he introduces himself here and tells us some of what he's learned since being at Rti. Then everyone tries a bold new flavor combo: Coca Cola flavored Oreos... and Oreo flavored Cola! (Yes, it's a thing!)

In this week's episode of Hear in Taiwan, Fil and Hanna discuss a Michelin awarded Mexican food in Taipei and a happy ending of a parrot love story. 

In this week's episode of Hear in Taiwan, the dynamic duo Amber and Fil are back on the mics with some monkey business. They discuss the rising human-monkey conflicts in some of Taiwan's national parks and the human-human conflicts that occurred at the recent Bruno Mars concert in Kaohsiung.  

Join Michelle and Amanda in the studio to chat about the Taiwan government's new regulations regarding non-domesticated animal performances and what claw machines have to do with an illegal poker gambling ring!

Amanda, Tristan and Sam join up to talk about an unwelcome visitor to the Taipei Metro, and to say goodbye to Sam, whose summer internship is wrapping up. 

Amber and Hanna discuss a Tainan resident who's managed to make himself famous by assembling portraits of famous people out of Rubik's cubes, as well as how much damage they've probably done to their bodies by this point through the consumption of "forever chemicals" like PFAS.

Hosts Amanda Stephens and Fil Levkovsky discuss a disheartening story about signs being snatched from Olympic spectators, and a story about the what the creative cooks at Pizza Hut Taiwan have made to celebrate Qixi festival. Personal dating stories, and pitches for new Olympic rules abound.

2024-08-04

Today, hosts Michelle Chiang and Amanda Stephens once again tackle some of the weekends biggest and craziest news stories. We discuss a man whose grenade joke didn't play well while boarding his flight, and the big announcement (as of our recording) in the U.S.A. elections.

Hosts Michelle and Amanda talk about the students sailing around Taiwan for the summer, New York's very first Din Tai Fung, and Wafer the electronics sniffing dog!

Host Amanda Stephens welcomes the English Crew's new intern Samuel Feng! We discuss the president adopting a 3-legged pooch for the greater good, and how the Amis made a replica boat that went all the way to Green Island.

2024-06-30

Michelle and Hanna talk about honest sanitation workers, Taichung's self-proclaimed otaku hero, and a baker's dozen of sea turtles set free off the shore of Penghu.

Join Amanda and Tristan as they revisit some of the more lighthearted news that came about from Taiwan's 2024 Dragon Boat festival celebrations. They discuss dragon boat racing, and the interesting substitution for egg standing that happened in Pintung county.

2024-06-09

Join Amber and Fil as they discuss a spooky story about discovery of 3 people's remains and movie director Wei Te-sheng apologized about his arbitrary comments about TSMC.

Tristan, Amber, and Fil talk about the legalization of surrogacy in Taiwan, YouTube creator Toyz starting his prison sentence, and artwork of naked bodies needing censored for public posters.

2024-05-19

Amber, Tristan, and Hanna talk about the recent commotion caused by a group of foreigners on the MRT, as well as the success of the National Miaoli Special School's cheerleading team at the 2024 World Cheerleading Championships in Florida.

2024-04-28

2024-04-21

A very special episode of Hear in Taiwan that talks with visiting Columbia University students studying Chinese in Taiwan!  Listen to learn about their experiences living in our island country!

Michelle is joined by Amanda (for the first time) and Ching-en to update the public about where they were when the quake struck and in more positive news, the new pet-friendly(?) MRT system!

Michelle and Fil are in the studio with some... odd... stories!  Where is the last place you'd expect to find a coconut, what are the last things you'd expect on a pizza, and why Taiwan is hiring so many English teachers?

Join Mary Anne, Amber and Fil as they chat about how a driver crashed into a family mart, what Americans think about Taiwan and how Taiwan is the happiest country in East Asia!

 Join Amber, Iris and Mary Anne as they talk about sakura blossoms, an interesting group of school students secretly growing crops in their school, and we find out that Amber really likes tigers, apparently. 

Michelle hosts Hear in Taiwan with Ching-en and Fil to chat about misuse of YouBikes, contaminants found in chili powder, and recent trouble caused by Taoyuan Airport construction.

2024-03-03

Join Fil and Sharon as we chat about several closely related (seriously, not) stories of Taiwan this week.

Join Fil and Ching-en as they talk about animals, mahjong, and lottery tickets in today's episode of Hear In Taiwan.

2024-02-10

Join Mary Anne and Fil in the studio as they chat about the return of rubber ducks to Taiwan, an student's creative idea of posting her dad's picture on betel nut stands and cherry blossom trees being lit up at night!

In today's episode of Hear in Taiwan, Amber, Fil, and Ching-en chat about the possibility of snow in Taiwan in the coming days, predictions of what's to come in the Year of the Dragon, and how Taiwan's passport ranks in the world. 

2024-01-13

Michelle's back once again with Fil and Amber to talk about a Texas Hold 'Em gambling ring, our thoughts on Taiwan's ongoing death penalty debate, and COVID19 tests at the airport!

Michelle hosts the last episode of Hear in Taiwan of 2023 with Fil and Amber weighing in on the blooming Taiwanese coffee industry, a fight that broke out at a late-night eats joint, and an apprehended forgery ring.  Happy New Year everyone!

Michelle hosts this week's Hear in Taiwan joined by Filip Leskovsky and Chris Gorin!  The conversation moves from the green benefits of a huge partnership, a recent study of Taiwanese college students, to naturalization numbers and improvements!

Join Mary Anne and Fil as they talk about the New Year's fireworks at the iconic skyscraper, great services provided by the MRT and suggested YouBike insurance. 

On today's episode, Amber and Fil talk about a dispute in a salon resulting in a lawsuit, the dangers of the ocean, and the dangers of hiking without being prepared. 

Join Mary Anne, Fil and Ching-en as they talk about their music interests, a happy ending in an incident with hikers and a memorial for a Taiwanese feminist activist.  

Join Fil, Michelle, and Ching-en as they talk about teaching professions, food-related holidays, and semiconductor opportunities. 

Join Amber and Fil as they talk about some things that you should avoid on this winter solstice, Tainan being on the National Geographic list of 30 must-see places, and 25% increased immigration to Taiwan. 

2023-11-04

Join Fil, Mary Anne, and Ching-en on today's Hear In Taiwan, where they talk about monkeys stealing food, Halloween costumes and their good fortune, and Taiwan's most popular names.

Join hosts Amber, Ching-en, and Fil as they discuss protesters wielding Nazi flags on a Taipei street, the declining coral in Xiao Liuqui's waters, and Lai Ching-te's planned attendance at the Pride parade.

Join Fil, Mary Anne, and Amber on today's Hear In Taiwan as they discuss implementing smart bus stops, information about Ed Sheeran's upcoming concert, and newly added hotline language support.

Join Amber, Fil and Ching-en as they discuss potential punishments for graffiti in Taiwan, stamp collection to participate in a raffle and spy-like series of events with the floating barrier. 

Join Fil, Mary Anne, and Ching-en as they talk about environmentally related subjects in today's Hear in Taiwan.

2023-10-15

  Join Fil and Jess as they chat about Cloud Gate showing AI-inspired project ‘Wave,’ Yo-Yo Ma and Kathryn Scott performing in Kaohsiung, EVA Air being ranked one of the top airlines in the world, and more!

Join Mary Anne, Fil and Amber as they sit down to chat about the Kuomintang (KMT) party declining to attend the National Day celebration, a woman nearly dying from being stuck in a freezer and a ferry boat running aground in Penhu

Michelle, Fil, and Mary Anne are in the studio chatting about a failed lawsuit over an eel bone injury, recent statistics about work hours, and a Halloween event at MRT Zhongshan station!

Join Amber and Fil as they discuss the top tourist spots in Taipei, help the owner find his lost capybaras, and how the Criminal Investigation Bureau seizes 10kg of Amphetamines disguised as milk powder.  

Join Fil, Amber, and Mary Anne as they discuss current topics in Taiwan. In today's episode, they discuss Hiking safety and a recent incident, Keelung's AI system to prevent night time swimming and hikers getting attacked by hornets once again. 

Tune in to Mary Anne as she hosts Here in Taiwan with Fil Leskovsky and Ching-en Chiou as they talk about Mid-autumn festival barbeques with crocodiles on the menu, a transgender march and a Mercedes Benz set on fire.

Join Fil and Ching-en as they discuss the Mid-Autumn festival and its taboos, egg shortage, and the follow-up implementations and ranking of universities.

Listen in on Michelle as she hosts Hear in Taiwan with Fil Leskovsky and Jess Wu, touching on favorite condiments, animals, and adventures in Taiwan!

Hi there, welcome to today's Hear In Taiwan. Join Sharon, Jess, and Fil as we talk about the Taiwanese Judo athlete Yang Yung-wei (楊勇緯) winning a gold medal at the Asian Games, digital minister Audrey Tang (唐鳳) attending an international forum in NYC, and a swimming accident where a young swimmer dies during annual Sun Moon Lake swim.  

Join Jess, Sharon, and Fil in their conversation over an adult dance show in Taipei, a driver charged with a DUI, and the return of Chiangs' diaries from the Hoover Institution. 

Join Fil, Ching-en, and Amber as they discuss badly parked vehicles, free concerts over the weekend and the Taipei celebration of Moon Festival.

Join Amber, Jess, and Mary Anne as they chat about a defense expo in Taiwan, snake encounters, and free Mandarin classes for migrant workers.

Join Mary Anne Sioco as she hosts today's episode with Ching-en Chiou and Filip Leskovsky! Today, they discuss a Amusement Park Ambassadors, a long-term healthcare expo and taboos at the end of ghost month.

Join Mary Anne Sioco as she hosts today's episode with Ching-en Chiou and Filip Leskovsky! Today, they discuss a MassKara Festival, an Indie Book Fair and the status of salaries here in Taiwan.

Join Jess, Chris, and Fil in their chat about martial arts clubs brawl, odyssey traveler highlights Taiwan travels, and performing arts promoter Hsu Po-yun’s passing

2023-09-06

2023-09-05

Join hosts Amber, Jess, and Ching-en as they talk about the increase in car accidents in Taiwan this year, a Taiwanese movie that might be heading to the Oscars, and Semiconductors.

Jessica Wu hosts today's episode with Amber Hatfield! Come join them as they discuss Tainan festival to showcase international and local musicians, Taiwan AI Labs signs MOU to combat misinformation, and a Taiwanese man's sentence of a record 220 years for human trafficking.

Mary Anne hosts today's episode with Jess Wu and Ching-en Chiou! Come join them as they discuss a new baby Tapir at the Taipei Zoo, women laborers feature films from the Kaohsiung Film Archive and a French artist's watercolor paintings of Taiwan.

Jess Wu hosts today's episode with Chris Gorin and Ching-en Chiou! Come join the trio as they discuss the indictment of 21 New Taipei crematorium workers for bribes, the finding of eco-friendly alternatives to ‘ghost money,’ and the experts’ recommendation of minimum wage hike to at least 2%.      

Jess Wu hosts today's episode with Mary Anne Sioco and Amber Hatfield! Come join the trio as they discuss about customs to observe on Lunar Valentine's Day in Taiwan, assistance for Ukrainian refugees taking national exams on donated Taiwanese computers, and Taiwanese lemons to help fight depression.   

Mary Anne Sioco hosts today's episode with Michelle Chiang and Ching-en Chiou! Join the group as they talk about spooky ghost month superstitions, the fur baby boom and the upsurge in podcast listeners!

Jess Wu hosts today's episode with Mary Anne Sioco and Chris Gorin! Come join the group as they chat about Taiwanese French songstresses the French music scene, groups spending a  night at the Presidential Office, and a Spanish artist facing a hefty fine.

Amber Hatfield hosts today's episode with Jess Wu and Mary Anne Sioco!  Come join the group as they talk about Taiwan’s history reflected in digital archives and nature trails, Taipei’s mrt being too hot to handle and the presence of brain-eating amoebas!

Join Amber, Michelle, and Ching-en while they talk about tourists in Taiwan, where buffalo go when they retire, and our favorite Taiwanese foods. 

Michelle Chiang hosts today's episode with Jess Wu and Amber Hatfield!  Come join the conversation about what some con men have done with Taiwan's receipt lottery, how university students are breaking up with each other, and why Sundance Asia is coming to Taipei!

2023-08-09

Michelle Chiang hosts Hear in Taiwan with Ching-en Chiou and Mary Anne Sioco!  They chat about a new murder show on Netflix and how it tackles the topics of ethnicity and the death penalty in Taiwan, why some women are freezing their eggs, and new direct flights from Taiwan to Boracay, Philippines!

Michelle Chiang is joined by Mary Anne Sioco and Amber Hatfield to talk about how Taiwan's Metro will be making rental umbrellas available, what we would do if presented with a hero opportunity, and which vendors have been found with high levels of E. Coli contamination.

Hi there, hope you're having a great day. Join Sharon, Mary Anne, and Jess on today’s Hear in Taiwan as we talk about a diverse mix of topics, starting with period products! Hit play now. 

2023-08-01

Chris Gorin and Michelle Chiang are in the studio chatting about recent changes a farm has made to be greener, what has been found in some brands of instant noodles, and what to watch on Netflix!

2023-04-27

Listen to Sharon and Michelle in the studio chat about an old family business, an ongoing beer and food festival in Taipei, a recently found cache of human skeletons in Chiayi, and what Taiwan, Hawaii, and aliens have in common!

In this special episode of Hear in Taiwan, Host Brendan talk with Tomasz and recap his journey at Rti! Best of luck, Tomasz! 

In this episode of Hear in Taiwan, hosts Brendan Wong and Iris Hsu talk about Taiwan's fruit, whiskey, and rain! One of the most common Taiwanese combinations!

2023-04-21

In this episode of Hear in Taiwan, hosts Brendan Wong and Isabella Wells talk about an ocean rescue incident, cash rewards for tourists, and masks on public transporation. 

In this episode of Hear in Taiwan, hosts Brendan Wong and Michelle Chiang talk about how to be safe at theme parks, how to prevent getting scammed, and birds in Taiwan! 

Iris Hsu and Michelle Chiang are in the studio chatting about what Taiwan is doing to make its animal husbandry a little better for the environment, what "Blue Tears" are and why they are appearing on Taiwan's beaches, and the lifting of mask restrictions!

In this episode of Hear in Taiwan, hosts Brendan Wong and Sharon Lin talk about Taiwan's National Symphony Orchestra in New York, new baby leopard cats, and upcoming Taipei Veggie Fest! 

2023-04-14

In this episode of Hear in Taiwan, hosts Brendan Wong and Tomasz Koper talk about improper school discipline, subsidies for pregnant women, and a Taiwanese boy winning gold medals at an international stacking competition!

In this episode of Hear in Taiwan, hosts Brendan Wong and Emma Bennack talk about environmentally-friendly burial alternatives, plastic cup ban in New Taipei, and 1.34 million Taiwanese people traveling abroad!

Emma Benack, Chris Gorin, and Michelle Chiang talk about an illegal iguana bust, National Pet Day, Taipei's highly ranked public transport, and protests surrounding President Tsai's stop in the United States.

In this episode of Hear in Taiwan, hosts Brendan Wong and Chris Gorin talk about a bill to curb illegal crop exports, Taiwanese celebrity criticized for her table manners, and Taiwan's flag being used as a tablecloth. 

2023-04-07

In this episode of Hear in Taiwan, hosts Brendan Wong and Tomasz Koper discuss ChatGPT, NTNU's mental health policy change, and Taiwan's pineapples! 

In this episode of Hear in Taiwan, hosts Brendan Wong and Chris Gorin discuss Hualien's trail challenge, Taipei Zoo's special Children's Day discount, and a disease experts are warning against! 

2023-04-04

Emma Benack and Chris Gorin talk about the mystery surrounding recent train accidents, certain things to avoid during the spring equinox period, job scammers getting punished, and an influx of British pork.

In this episode, hosts Shirley Lin and Brendan Wong discuss snake bites, Jay Chou making history, and Taiwanese jam winning awards! 

Tune in to Hear in Taiwan to learn what happened to the baboon on the loose, whether there is solution for Taiwan's 'pedestrian hell' sidewalks, and what a Southern Taiwan school principal did to get fired. 

Emma Benack and Chris Gorin discuss common causes and remedies for Taiwan's significant insomnia rate, the death of Din Tai Fung's founder (and what does Taiwanese cusine mean?), an award-winning AI email assistant, and the effect of Taiwan's drought on Sun Moon Lake.

In this episode, hosts Shirley Lin and Chris Gorin discuss the unavoidable topic of the baboon running around Taoyuan, a Tainan fire department that made video which parodies a famous Korean drama, and talk about hearings held in the US with TikTok's CEO. 

Join Itamar and Brendan today for Itamar's last Hear in Taiwan where we talk about happiness, NT$6,000 handouts, and the weather! Farewell, Itamar! 

Join Shirley and Brendan today for another episode of Hear in Taiwan where we talk about personalized coffee cup art, first day of spring, and insomnia in Taiwan! 

In this episode, hosts Chris Gorin and Emma Banack discuss relaxing requirements for becoming a permanent resident in Taiwan, and an upcoming beach festival in Taitung.

Join Chris and Brendan today for another episode of Hear in Taiwan where we talk about ticket scalping for Blackpink concert tickets, the Academy Awards, and nuclear power in Taiwan!

2023-03-16

On Hear in Taiwan, Shirley Lin and Iris Hsu talk about how the government tries to improve land crab crossings, how to encourage the use of fingerprints to help the elderly find their way home, and how part-time jobs benefit women.

Emma Benack and Brendan Wong talk about aimal shelters with a growing bird population, the popularity of Taiwanese baseball cheerleaders, and a modern love exhibition in Taipei.

Join Chris and Brendan today for another episode of Hear in Taiwan where we talk about a recent ranking for Taiwan, duck egg prices, and fancy underworld parties. 

2023-03-09

Join Shirley and Brendan today for another episode of Hear in Taiwan where we talk about a tourism survey, masks in school, and painted rocks!

Emma Benack and Chris Gorin talk about Taiwanese troops in Matsu going hungry for meat, a change in plans for a visiting Ukrainian ballet troupe, and a rise in Taiwan's pet population.

Join Chris and Brendan today for another episode of Hear in Taiwan where we talk about a stipend for Taipei-city born babies, McDonald's new policy, and a development at Taiwan's National Symphony Orchestra!

2023-03-02

Emma Benack and Brendan Wong talk about the case of a stolen temple altar, an increase in English teaching opportunities, and sneaky restaurant behavior.

On this episode, hosts Emma Benack and Chris Gorin discuss the anniversary of the 228 incident in Taiwan, transitional justice, removing statues from schools in Tainan and more. Plus, a long discussion on international extridition, and the particularly unique situation between Taiwan and China. 

Join Chris and Brendan today for another hilarious Hear in Taiwan as we talk about a department store data leak, TSMC's Arizona factory, and travel subsidies for tourists! 

Join Itamar and Brendan today for Hear in Taiwan as we talk about a recent US poll, egg shortages, monkeypox cases, and snorkeling shop fines. 

Join Shirley and Brendan today for Hear in Taiwan as we talk about a spelling bee competition, red lanterns at Jiufen, and MSG!

2023-02-21

Join Chris and Brendan today for Hear in Taiwan as we talk about bullying surrounding masks, a singer's fake death announcement, and the flying fish season. 

Join Itamar and Brendan today for Hear in Taiwan as we talk about TSMC's high bonuses to employees, rising hotel room costs in Taiwan, and new coffee machines at convenience stores!

Join Emma and Brendan today for Hear in Taiwan as we talk about the Turkish ice cream vendor, bus driver shortage, and Valentine's Day!

Hosts Chris Gorin and Emma Banack talk about huge crowds at the Taipei Lantern Festival, lament a scandal related to a Taiwanese nonprofit's fundraising drive, and discuss the very unsanitary Tiktok trends causing some restaurants to ban the app. 

Join Chris and Brendan today for Hear in Taiwan as we talk about indoor mask mandates, a lantern editorial, scooter lessons subsidies, and a volcano eruption in Taiwan! 

Join Tomasz and Brendan today for Hear in Taiwan as we talk about avian flu outbreak in Taiwan, housing subsidies, and homegrown blueberries! 

Join Emma and Brendan today for Hear in Taiwan as we talk about Taiwan's rescue teams in Turkey, father-daughter duo at the Grammy Awards, and the Lantern Festival! 

Hosts Emma Benack and Chris Gorin talk about some risky traditions involving fireworks and firecrackers, trickery at night market games, and the suspected Chinese surveillance balloon.

2023-02-06

Join Itamar and Brendan today for Hear in Taiwan as we talk about traffic fines, math education, and same-sex marriage in Taiwan! 

Join Brendan today for a Hear in Taiwan episode where he talks about the tallest tree in Taiwan, an international book fair in Taipei, and a Taiwanese artist in the US!

Hosts Emma Banack and Chris Gorin talking about former NBA star Jeremy Lin's move to Taiwan, the governments debate over taxing online content creators, and Taiwan's attempt to reach 100% paper recycling. 

Join Shirley and Brendan today for special Hear in Taiwan episode where we feature a Mouse Bride radio drama! We also talk about the falling unemployment rate and lottery scratchers in Taiwan! 

2023-01-26

Join Shirley and Brendan for a special Lunar New Year episode of Hear in Taiwan as we talk about the traditions of red envelopes, the color red, and mahjong! 

Join Emma and Michelle while they discuss LNY and recent developments with the Taiwan lottery, a problem with firecrackers, and vegetable prices.

Join Shirley and Brendan for a special Lunar New Year episode where we talk about the tradition of people traveling to their wife's side of the family on the second day of the new year. 

Join Itamar and Brendan today for Hear in Taiwan as we talk about China Airline's data leak, cold front in Taiwan, pesticide found in imported goods, and a not-so-great news about a recent outbreak. 

Join Shirley and Brendan today for Hear in Taiwan as we talk about the indoor mask mandate and a recent accident in Taiwan! 

Emma Benack and Michelle Chiang chat about a surprise dinner guest, how the numbers of registered dogs have surprisingly dropped, and whether we took advantage of a recent drink deal.

Join Shirley and Brendan today for Hear in Taiwan as we talk about a potential vape ban, tax rebate plan progress, and Taiwan's plan to attract more foreign talents! 

Join Itamar and Tomasz today for Hear in Taiwan as we talk about a new climate law with carbon fee system, a housing bill to deter house flippers, and Taiwan's declining population size!

Join Emma and Brendan today for Hear in Taiwan as we talk about a Taiwanese gender studies author, rabbit (and rats?) rights, and a controversial club rule in Taichung! 

We talk about Taiwan's horrid traffic safety conditions and other stories on today's Hear in Taiwan.

Join Chris and Brendan today for Hear in Taiwan as we talk about mandated makeup work on Saturday, Palau's tourism strategy, low reservoir water in Taiwan, and award-winning Taiwanese chocolate! 

Join Tomasz and Brendan today for Hear in Taiwan as we talk about hot springs in Taichung, crabs from China containing high levels of dioxin, and robot rabbits for Taiwan's Lantern Festival. 

Emma Benack and Brendan Wong talk about a police scandal in Tainan, Chinese passengers with COVID-19 coming into Taiwan, and a hopeful tug-of-war team.

Emma Benack and Chris Gorin talk about new policies going into effect in 2023, a taxi driver who saved an elderly man from being scammed, cultural vouchers for the youth, and mixing up Taiwan and Thailand.

Join Chris and Brendan today for Hear in Taiwan as we talk about foreigners without Taiwan health insurance, lagoon with jellyfish in Kaosiung, and new laws starting on January 1. 

Join Issy and Sharon today for Hear in Taiwan as we talk about a heartbreaking story about an abandoned puppy and monkey, the fresh fish markets of Taiwan, and beautiful hiking trails.

Itamar, Chris, and Brendan talk about New Year's celebrations in Taiwan, TSMC's new factory in southern Taiwan, and Taipei health bureau's warning against Chinese-made capsules. 

Join Issy, Sharon, and Michelle as we chat about traveling in Japan, a scandal of a mega bookstore in Taiwan, and lost and found on trains in Taiwan. This episode may or may not disclose who among us hosts tend to lose things on public transport, coupled with non-stop laughter. Stay warm. Update: The actor we were talking about was Ke Huy Quan. 

Hi there, it's cold. It's winter in Taiwan. Guess what, there are some taboos for Dongzhi (winter solstice), according to some folks. Stories about female fighter pilots coming up as well. Lastly, how much would you pay for this special cup of coffee? Join Michelle, Shirley, and Sharon for Hear in Taiwan. 

Hello there, how is your week so far? Today, join Tomasz, Issy, and Sharon as we talk about to pay with cash or not to pay with cash when in Taiwan. What is it like in other places? And of course, finally, World Cup. Also, apparently someone wasn't happy when their dinosaur balloon could not be on the metro. Let's find out. 

Issy, Sharon, and Emma talk about the winners of a recent Taiwanese marathon, Netflix promoting Taiwanese films and dramas, runaway mascot balloons, and tourism in southern Taiwan.

Sharon, Michelle, and Issy are here with you on Hear in Taiwan today. Let's talk about senior housing. Also, what others do in bathrooms is not your business, and bullying is NOT cool. And hey, Taiwan won a chocoate competition in the UK! 

On Hear in Taiwan, Michelle Chiang, Sharon Lin, and Chris Gorin chat about the recent earthquake that hit the island, a famous Taiwanese writer's tour in the US, and Uniqlo accusing a customer of theft.

2022-12-15

Hello there, welcome to Hear in Taiwan. Today we're talking about Taiwan's military service first. How long should it be? With the holiday festivities in the air, could local police officers spice up their uniform with a, say, santa hat? Some elders in Taiwan are gamers in a tournament. I want to grow up like that! And, ***(These are snowflakes.), Taiwan's Xueshan (Snow Mountain) sees first snow. 

Winter is coming. (This is for all of you Game of Thrones fans. And we do not talk about the final season.) With Taiwan's borders finally open to international visitors, let's talk about arts festivals and heritage tourism. Also, someone lost all their photos on the Line app. What's up with that? Make yourself a cup of tea, and welcome to Hear in Taiwan.

On Hear in Taiwan, Michelle Chiang, Isabella Wells, and Shirley Lin talk about the most searched Taiwanese terms on Google in 2022, tooth decay looms among children due to COVID, and Taiwan's weightlifting champion wins 2 silvers.

2022-12-08

On Hear in Taiwan, we're excited about an old whale skeleton discovered in, guess where, Taiwan! Also, TikTok is too much sometimes. Should we regulate it? And hold up. Is that a wig or a helmet?

Taiwanese-American, Oscar-winning director Ang Lee is making a new Bruce Lee biopic. Speaking of movies, how much popcorn do you usually get? Some locals might surprise you. And finally, no masks outdoors! Does this mean people would go back to putting on makeup and shaving? Welcome to today's Hear in Taiwan. 

Asia trails, hot pot vegetables, Christmasland in today's Hear in Taiwan.

2022-12-01

On Hear in Taiwan, Michelle Chiang, Brendan Wong, and Shirley Lin talk about the outdoor mask mandate changes, Taiwan's night market stall suspension, and wheat potentially replacing rice as Taiwan's favorite staple. 

On Hear in Taiwan, Brendan Wong and Shirley Lin talk about the referendum over the weekend that failed to pass, a vigil held in support of COVID lockdown protests in China, and a student march in Taiwan to promote climate change awareness.

On Hear in Taiwan, Shirley Lin and Brendan Wong talk about unclaimed receipt lottery prizes, three more struggling private high schools added to 'watch list' , and a foreign client pressuring a Taiwan company to submit carbon reduction plan.

2022-11-24

Check out daily news stories in this talk show.

Emma Benack and Brendan Wong talk about the unfortunate death of Taiwan's beloved panda Tuantuan, as well as the country's healthcare system and upcoming midterm elections.

2022-11-21

DPP candidates hold a press conference to let the tech industry know their on their side, and the kids protest for their rights. Plus other stories on Hear in Taiwan.

On Hear in Taiwan, Michelle Chiang and Shirley Lin talk about Taipei's future "Twin Towers", how Taiwanese research ships need more protection from territorial conflicts, and how there need to be more efforts in combating student drug abuse.

For Hear in Taiwan, Michelle Chiang and Shirley Lin chat about new fish flavored rice puffs, falling real wages for the first time in nine years, and a Taiwanese construction company donates a record number of apartments for public housing in Tainan City.

Outdoor mask mandates will soon be a thing of the past, climate groups push for more aggressive emissions cuts, and Taiwan's universities rank high in Asia.

Emma and Shirley talk about the controversy surrounding Russian drones found with "Made in Taiwan" chips, an upcoming bento box festival, as well as an NBA star who's coming to play in Taiwan.

On Hear in Taiwan, Michelle Chiang and Shirley Lin talk about new relaxed COVID regulations as of Nov. 7, electronics aren't all that bad for kids, and Taipei City government's abuse of the social housing policy.

In this edition of Hear in Taiwan, Shirley, Michelle, and Tomasz talk about a man who found his way home after being stranded abroad for 40 years, as well as very long names and criminally irresponsible drivers.

2022-11-03

Emma Benack and Itamar Waksman talk about the development of a new entry system for written Hakka (a dialect in Taiwan and China), Taiwan's mission to open more language centers around the world, as well as a new riverside bike trail in New Taipei.

2022-11-01

In this episode of Hear in Taiwan, Emma and Tomasz talk about broken museum artifacts, tourist buses, and sick pandas.

2022-10-27

Emma and Itamar talk about upcoming changes in pandemic regulations, soldiers who were discharged after posting a TikTok video, and a legal battle between a smoker and his neighbors.

Natalie and Emma talk about surprises at the Golden Bell Awards, scientific advancements in predicting earthquakes, and global surveys about people's opinions of China and Taiwan.

 Taiwan's EasyCard stored value cards will be accepted as a means of payment at over 2,000 locations in Japan's Ryukyu Islands beginning November 7. Those stories and more in Hear in Taiwan.

2022-10-20

Emma and Itamar talk about the sharp increase in flights to and from Taiwan after the borders opened last week. They also talk about Food Panda's initiative to reduce food waste and an investigation into improper supervision at a school in Taipei.

2022-10-18

On this Hear in Taiwan, Emma and Tomasz talk about Taiwan's recently re-opened borders (but not for pork! DO NOT SEND PORK!) and an interesting archeological find.

Leslie and Tomasz talk about a Taiwan flag that's been to the moon, an illegal beauty clinic, and a proposal for Taiwan to have a true national day of its own. 

Leslie Liao and Tomasz Koper talk about Taiwan's national day celebrations and weigh in on Elon Musk's recommendation about Taiwan-China tensions.

On this episode of Hear in Taiwan, Emma and Tomasz talk mainly about sports.

In this episode of Hear in Taiwan, Leslie and Tomasz discuss interesting topics ranging from farm popups in the metro to securing votes from pet owners.

2022-10-05

2022-10-03

Leslie and Emma talk about a big football star coming to visit Taiwan, a major cannabis drug bust, a new promising cancer screenin method, and a rising threat to Taiwan's pangolins.

Taiwan may be loosening up its mask requirement soon. Those stories and more in Hear in Taiwan.

Leslie and Natalie talk about Taiwan's impending first female lieutenant general, Taiwan's receipt lottery, noise levels in Taipei, and China's ability to invade Taiwan. 

In this edition of Hear in Taiwan, Leslie and Tomasz talk about broken trains, misbehaving bears, and adult habits among teens.

2022-09-22

On Hear in Taiwan, Itamar Waksman and Shirley Lin talk about the possibility of bringing back the desk dividers in classrooms due to COVID, young farmers being awarded by the Council of Agriculture, and Cloud Gate Dance Theater to resume open-air shows in Taipei.

Leslie and Staś talk about a series of earthquakes that hit Taiwan over the weekend and Taiwan winning big at a tug-of-war competition.    

On Hear in Taiwan, listen to Tomasz Koper and Shirley Lin talk about how small pet owners need to be better educated, an ancient bead is being lent to a museum in Chicago, and a cram school owner sues a former employee over something very petty.

Leslie and Itamar talk about a trourist attraction that went "poof!!", a heroic rescue at the end of Mid-Autumn Festival, a new study on depression in Taiwan, and a debate over sit and squat toilets. 

On Hear in Taiwan, Emma Benack and Shirley Lin talk about a Taiwanese VR film that won at the Venice International Film Festival, a Taiwanese tea that won at the UK's Great Taste Awards, and a Taiwan eatery displays free campaign ads for local election candidates.

2022-09-12

Leslie and Itamar get into the latest in Taiwanese news. 

2022-09-07

Leslie and Staś are back at it with another edition of Hear in Taiwan.

On Hear in Taiwan, Tomasz Koper and Shirley Lin chat on Tainan residents' sentiment about not having any of their city's restaurants listed on the Michelin Guide this year, and a concert organizer that initially refused to give refunds to concertgoers for cancelled performances.

Leslie Liao tells you about an approaching typhoon, big plane purchases, a new study on vitamin D, and coffee robots.

On Hear in Taiwan, Emma Benack and Shirley Lin chat about a Taiwanese style popcorn chicken festival that just took place in Kaohsiung, how a street in Taipei was named '4th coolest street in the world', and a trial run of a drone mail delivery service to a remote Indigenous village.

Leslie Liao tells you about the New York Mets' Taiwan Heritage Day, later starting times for school children, a music festival in trouble, and two impressive sports wins.

On this episode of Hear in Taiwan, Shirley and Tomasz talk about calls from Japan for Taiwan to open its borders and smoking among teenagers.

Leslie and Ethan talk about Ethan's last day at RTI, Taiwan's food and beverage industry bouncing back, Taiwan's imminent rainstorms, a downturn in enrollment, and Taiwan winning big at an invention and innovation competition. 

2022-08-24

On Hear in Taiwan, Tomasz Koper and Shirley Lin talk about Taiwan winning 2 golds at the International Olympiad in Informatics, high speed ferries between Taiwan and Matsu bringing relief to tourists, and how Taiwan’s coral reefs are facing bleaching risks due to lack of typhoons.

2022-08-18

On Hear in Taiwan, Shirley Lin and Emma Benack talk about the Taitung hot-air balloon festival, traditional Indonesian culture exhibit at a Taipei museum, and the Taiwanese American girl who won the MasterChef Junior contest and who is now visiting Taiwan.

2022-08-16

Leslie and Ethan talk about Taiwan's first population growth since 2020, Nancy Pelosi's reaction to her own Taiwan trip, work scams in Cambodia, and Taiwan winning big at the EVO video game tournament. 

On Hear in Taiwan, Emma Benack and Shirley Lin chat about pets on Taiwanese school campuses and the development of drones that can fly longer and carry heavier stuff.

Leslie and Staś talk about celebrities getting in trouble for minor things, a candy bar apologizing for using the Taiwan flag, a popular Father's Day gift, and Taiwan winning big at the World Police and Fire Games. 

2022-08-08

Leslie and Ethan talk about what China did before and after Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan, a man who didn't quite get away with crime after he pretended to be his friend, and rip currents.

Emma and Itamar discuss Taiwan's indigenous people, rising subsidies for child-rearing, and increasing health concerns about Taiwan's population maintaining a healthy weight.

2022-08-02

Leslie and Ethan talk about rising milk prices, cat adoptions, bubble tea health violations, and more sports wins for Taiwan

Leslie and Staś talk about a recent air raid drill in Taipei, Hsinchu City's (not so well) revamped baseball stadium, two new biographies on mayoral candidates, and the first Taiwanese person to summit K2. 

Staś Butler and Tomasz Koper discuss some unexpected parallels between weddings customs in Taiwan and Poland in this episode of Hear in Taiwan.

Leslie and Ethan (RTI English's newest addition) talk about supermarket mergers, the Kaohsiung Lantern Festival winning awards, the rising price of eggs, and the easing of mask mandates in Taiwan. 

On Hear in Taiwan, learn more about the world's first "Quiet Trail" that circles Taiwan's largest alpine lake and how the language proficiency rule is eased for foreign caregivers in Taiwan.

In this episode, Leslie and Staś talk about a Taiwan Festival in Manhattan, Taiwan ranking no. 2 in the world for quality of life, and a movie that's scared it's way into the Netflix charts. 

Stas and Shirley talk about an anonymous septuagenarian who repaid the fare price for trains they skipped 60 years ago. All that and more in this episode of Hear in Taiwan.

In this episode, Leslie dives into a newly published book about Taiwan's COVID-19 quarantine measures, air travel bouncing back, and a 13,000kg pilgrimage. 

On Hear in Taiwan, Itamar Waksman and Shirley Lin talk about Cape Town Mazu making her first pilgrimage to Taiwan in nine years, Ukrainian students studying in Taichung and bikers seeking better road rights on Taipei streets.

2022-07-12

On Hear in Taiwan, Shirley Lin and Staś Butler talk about an urban warfare workshop outside of Taipei, the first Taoist priest to become a member of Academia Sinica, and more thesis controversy involving a Taiwan politician.

Leslie Liao talks about Taiwanese avocados and mangoes, a new night program at the Taipei Zoo, and a new geothermal energy plant.

On Hear in Taiwan, listen to Itamar Waksman and Shirley Lin as they talk about how COVID border controls are going to remain in place for now, a teachers' union is calling for an overhaul of the "Bilingual 2030" policy, and Taiwanese professors are getting laid off due to universities shutting down.

On today's episode, our hosts delve into Taiwan's flag being forbidden at a basketball World Cup event, an ultramarathon runner winning gold, defaced coral in Orchid Island, and award-winning tea-scented perfume. 

On Hear in Taiwan, Stas Butler and Shirley Lin talk about oyster shells turned into various products to promote circular economy and a discount policy in Taiwan on reusable cups starting July 1.

Leslie delves into news stories about product recalls at the border, the dullest May on record, and a government official's doppelganger.

In this episode of Hear in Taiwan, Itamar and Leslie talk about a man who got in trouble for apparently vandalizing a mountain plaque, Taiwanese chocolatier getting recognized for his work, and a huge lake swim coming back for 2022. 

Leslie and Staś talk about a chain of victories by Taiwan at various competitions around the world.  

2022-06-27

In today's episode, Leslie goes over hot weather, Filipino food trucks, multilingual ATMs, and particular store owners.

On Hear in Taiwan, Emma Benack and Shirley Lin chat about a claw machine store owner's unusually long scooter parked in front of his shop and taboos to avoid during summer solstice.

Leslie and Staś talk about an earthquake that rocked Taiwan early Monday, an international school in Japan expanding operation in preparation for Taiwanese students, and the education ministry's new report on delcining student numbers. 

In this episode of Hear in Taiwan, Leslie and Tomasz talk about Stinky Trees in southern Taiwan, blood shortages, and a survey that finds young people are not too keen to go carbon-neutral. T

Emma and Itamar discuss policy controversies over identification cards for transgender people in Taiwan. Later, they discuss the life of one of Taiwan's most famous and influential puppeteers, as well as people's excitement to buy plane tickets for trips abroad - no matter the price.

On today's episode, Leslie and Itamar talk about a six-meter caught off the east coast of Taiwan. All that and more on this episode of Hear in Taiwan.

2022-06-13

On this week's episode of Hear in Taiwan, Leslie and Tomasz talk about the Taipei International Book Exhibition coming to a close, coral reefs not doing great, Taiwanese flags found in Kyiv, and the president's plans for the minimum wage in Taiwan.

On Hear in Taiwan, Itamar Waksman and Shirley Lin talk about a man who got stranded in the mountains when the batteries in his e-scooter died, a township mayor-turned-garbage-man, and the woes of school lunch caterers in the midst of a COVID outbreak.

Leslie and Staś talks about a graduation 70 years later, a scooter rider gets stranded 3,000, above sea level, Top Gun: Maverick bringing down the roof literally, and a job interview gone wrong. 

On Hear in Taiwan, Tomasz Koper and Shirley Lin talk about viral photos of President Tsai Ing-wen handling a weapon and Taiwan introducing liquor-flavored teas without the alcohol.

In this episode, Leslie and Tomasz talk about one of Taiwan's ministers quitting smoking, cultural sovereignty, and one of Taiwans' snacks getting more expensive. 

On Hear in Taiwan, Emma and Shirley talk about the potential dangers of UVC disinfectant lights, a hospital looking to hire recovered COVID cases, and Terry Gou's plan to provide free COVID testing machines for home use. 

Emma and Itamar talk about a new documentary featuring a father's search for his son in Taiwan, the movement to remove Chiang Kai-shek from bills and coins, and the effect of major rainfall on Taiwan's crops.

On Hear in Taiwan, Itamar Waksman and Shirley Lin talk about a Taiwanese craftsman who broke the Guinness World Record by making the world's smallest sundial in the world, McDonald's Taiwan bring your own cup discounts, and statues that were erected to help tell the Paiwan indigenous people's version of the Mudan Incident.

2022-05-26

On Hear in Taiwan, Shirley Lin and Emma Benack talk about a 7-11 convenience store that rents out private work space on its second floor, ninth graders taking high school entrance exams who had to define the word "trolling", and a new VR arcade aimed to hone combat skills.

On today's Hear in Taiwan, Itamar and Tomasz talk about picking up your laundry at a post office, learning about Taiwan's past through archeology, and skating one's way to new legislation.

Tune into Hear in Taiwan as Tomasz and Natalie talk abuot the Taiwanese Irvine church shooting, Taiwanese YouTubers on the Chinese payroll and no more fries at McDonald's.

On Hear in Taiwan, Shirley Lin and Itamar Waksman talk about a Taiwan-backed project revealing images of the black hole in the Milky Way and a university helping farmers build an 'invisible' fencing system to keep thieves away from their crops.

On this episode of Hear in Taiwan, Itamar and Tomasz discuss a fall in average real wages and Taiwan's efforts to make the country the global capital of Hakka culture.

Emma and Itamar talk about students protesting COVID-19 quarantine policies at schools, rallies promoting migrant workers' rights, Taipei's International Documentary Festival, and Tigerair's new NFTS.

Tune into Hear in Taiwan as Natalie Tso and Itamar Waksman talk about the latest COVID policies, how the government is trying to protect its tech industry from China and how Taiwan is trying to make life easier for mothers.

2022-05-09

On this episode of Hear in Taiwan, Leslie and Tomasz overdose on Star Wars references, but then also talk about digital fences, rapid tests, and insect repellent.

On Hear in Taiwan, Shirley Lin and Itamar Waksman talk about the health minister asking people who are asymptomatic and who have not taken rapid tests to not go to hospitals for PCR tests, among other topics.

On today's Hear in Taiwan we say hello to the newest member of RTI's English Team - Itamar Waksman! Itamar and Tomasz then discuss the recent railway workers strike and plans to remake the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall in Taipei.

On Hear in Taiwan, Tomasz Koper and Shirley Lin talk about expert opinions saying the Omicron variant of COVID should not be taken lightly and Greenpeace Taiwan's opposition to overpackaging of fruits and vegetables.

Natalie and Tomasz discuss two recent polls that illustrate changing attitudes in Taiwan.

On Hear in Taiwan, hear Emma Benack and Shirley Lin talk about a man caught for selling fake COVID vaccine cards, delivery workers' union opposed to delivering food to those quarantined at home, and Taiwan won two medals at the Edison Awards.

Join Natalie and Shirley as they talk about how empathy is an asset for female leaders. They also chat about the newest COVID strategy in Taiwan and how a dog shelter is using solar energy.

On Hear in Taiwan, Tomasz Koper and Shirley Lin cover an exclusive news story about a Taiwanese man in Warsaw, smokers rallying against a vaping ban in Taiwan, and a major broadcaster's blunder. 

Join Leslie and Tomasz as they talk about Taiwan's space agency, relaxation on cannabis-related punishments, and the Taiwan Railways Labor Union strike. 

Emma and Shirley talk about registration for the upcoming dragon boat races, China Airlines' controversial new logo, scholarships for Ukrainian students in Taiwan, and one water park's special discount.

Leslie and Staś talk about a snake that hitched a ride on a commuter train Monday morning. That and more on today's Hear in Taiwan.

Like every Friday, Shirley and Tomasz discuss a range of interesting topics

2022-04-14

On Hear in Taiwan, Emma Benack and Shirley Lin talk about academics calling for more importance put on Taiwan's native languages than English, and the health minister predicting that the number of domestic COVID cases will reach 1,000 per day by the end of April.

Leslie and Staś talk about COVID-19 testing kit and high speed rail ticket prices, and the second Taiwanese man to enlist in Ukraine's foreign legion. 

On Hear in Taiwan, Shirley and Tomasz talk about how a Taiwanese farmer could end up in jail for modifying an airsoft gun and DNA testing done on giant trees in Lalashan to correct the estimates of their age.

Leslie and Tomasz talk about a crowded airport, a singer's hacked YouTube channel, a meat pie thief, and demolition negligence that stunted the country's transportation systems.

Shirley and Emma talk about food trucks featuring food from Central American countries touring Taiwan, new donations being sent to Haiti, and a hit song by a Taiwanese-Australian artist and other Taiwanese collaborators.

Leslie and Staś talk about Taiwan's win at the Grammy's, a trouble-making sandwich in Auckland, commemoration for a train disaster, and Taiwan's newest gold medal in judo. 

In this April Fools edition of Hear in Taiwan, Shirley and Tomasz, two people with no interest in cars, talk about cars. Hilarity ensues.

Leslie and Tomasz talk about Taiwan winning a baking world cup, new smoking restrictions, and a collaboration between two tech giants

On Hear in Taiwan, Shirley Lin and Emma Benack talk about 20% of young Taiwan workers having no savings and Taiwan's fashion industry striving to cut carbon emissions, among others.

In this edition, our hosts take a look at Taiwan's new giant face mask, a scam call report gone wrong, Taiwanese dumplings in the US and the Health Minister recent promise.

In this edition of Hear in Taiwan, Shirley and Tomasz talk about insomnia following a big earthquake, TSMC opening a zero-waste production facility, and China pressuring a book fair in Italy to not use the word Taiwan.

2022-03-24

Emma and Shirley talk about how Taiwan has stepped up in big and small ways to show its support for Ukraine, Kiribati hospital patients, and the Indian community's Holi Festival.

Leslie and Staś ponder Taiwan's new scholarship for Ukrainians, a new survey about Taiwan and Japan, a Polish dentist getting her credentials in Taiwan, and the latest figures about Taiwan's donations to Ukraine!

On Hear in Taiwan, Tomasz Koper and Shirley Lin talk about a Taiwanese woman's innovation to rid the earth of microplastics and how more than a third of residents in Taipei who are over 40 are single.

On this episode, Leslie and Tomasz talk about the government closing highways for butterflies, (another) stuck cargo ship, Taiwan's exotic fruits in Japan, and inflation.

Tune in to Hear in Taiwan to hear Emma Benack and Shirley Lin talk about amusement parks catered to senior citizens and President Tsai Ing-wen's promotion of Taiwan's traditional medicine.

In today's Hear in Taiwan, Staś talk about: -Taiwan ranking 14th best "workcation" destination in the world -A pro-Ukraine rally that took place in Taipei -Taiwan's longest bike lane -TSMC's biggest customer

2022-03-14

2022-03-10

Shirley and Emma talk about changing quarantine rules and looking forward to life on the other side of COVID-19

Join Leslie and Staś as they ponder Taiwan's reservist training, donations to Ukraine, and a 99-million-year-old fossil going on display in Taichung.

2022-03-07

2022-03-03

On Hear in Taiwan, Shirley Lin and Natalie Tso talk about further loosened COVID rules in Taiwan especially when people can remove their masks, extended subsidy program for those inbound travelers to Taiwan during quarantine, and Taiwan providing humanitarian aid to Ukraine.

In this edition Leslie and Staś talk about Taiwan's support for Ukraine, a fat panda at the Taipei Zoo and a repurposed Chiang Kai-shek statue. 

2022-02-28

Leslie and Staś ponder recent cold weather, a new scholarship program, and a toothpick artist calling it quits.

Shirley and Tomasz discuss residency in Taiwan, investing in collectible card games, and a high-stakes egg heist foiled by the police.

Leslie and Tomasz discuss penalties for basketball offences, sustainability in the airline industry, and Taiwan's latest microsatellite.

Leslie and Staś talk about absurd prices for roses and accessories, democracy rankings, and a potential new  international tourist destination in Taiwan.

On Hear in Taiwan, Tomasz Koper and Shirley Lin chat on all public school classrooms getting air conditioners, Tainan having a high pet adoption rate, and about the upgrade in Kaohsiung's lantern festival.

Hear in Taiwan 2022/02/10

Emma and Shirley talk about some supposeduly "lucky" lotto shop pets, skateboarders gaining recognition, and an artist keeping Taiwan's culture and deity statues intact.

Leslie and Stas talk about Taipei City's plan to get people's health back on track, undercover cops breaking up a gambling ring, and stressed out monkeys

Tomasz Koper and Shirley Lin talk about untraditional practices that Shirley's family does during the Lunar New Year and back to work sentiments after the holidays, on Lunar New Year Special edition of Hear in Taiwan.

On this special Chinese New Year edition of Hear in Taiwan, Stas Butler and Shirley Lin chat on Shirley's family tradition surrounding the second day of the Lunar New Year, when married daughters bring their families home to her parents.

On this special Chinese New Year edition of Hear in Taiwan, Shirley Lin and Tomasz Koper talk about how they don't follow certain Lunar New Year practices and the popularity of lucky bags around this time of year.

On Hear in Taiwan, Stas Butler and Shirley Lin talk about how pet-friendly Taiwan's train station staff can be, and update on the current COVID-19 situation in Taiwan.

Taiwanese people have reasons for not favoring the Japanese in the past, but not any more. Listen to Tomasz Koper and Shirley Lin talk about that story and others, on Hear in Taiwan.

2022-01-19

On this edition of Hear in Taiwan, Leslie and Tomasz talk about a new recycled water plant, more impressive year-end bonuses, and a Taiwanese baseball player possibly making it to the majors!

Hear Tomasz Koper talk about the upcoming 2022 Taipei Game Show on Hear in Taiwan.

2022-01-13

Leslie and Tomasz take a look at peculiarities during a by-election over the weekend, Taiwan's innovation's winning big, and a familiar story that we've heard countless times on Hear in Taiwan.

On Hear in Taiwan, hear Shirley Lin and Tomasz Koper talk about why free baking classes offered to Indonesian migrant workers, Taiwan is changing its street names for better image, and somehow Taiwan is expecting a drier "rainy season" this year!

In this edition of Hear in Taiwan, Leslie and Tomasz talk about adoptions, drones, and rum recipes.

Shirley Lin and Emma Benack chat about recent earthquakes, Taiwan's float at the famous Rose Parade in LA, and a pay raise to have you teach in Taiwan's native languages, on Hear in Taiwan.

2022-01-04

Why would there be new regulations about chocolates and eggs? Wouldn't you want to know? Tune in to hear Shirley Lin and Tomasz Koper talk about them, on Hear in Taiwan.

Shirley Lin and Emma Benack talk about the exciting news of transforming surgical masks into phone chargers, Taipei's plan to increase reusable cup kiosks, and milk tea as the most-ordered food delivery item, on Hear in Taiwan.

Tomasz and Leslie share their 2021 Christmas experience, talk about chopsticks that don't quite make the grade, and about a thief who made their fortune off the back of COVID-19 quarantinees. 

On Hear in Taiwan, Tomasz Koper and Shirley Lin talk about RTI's own X'mas party, a cop who helped out with an old man after he committed a petty theft and someone hacked into the UN website to display the Taiwan flag!

A middle schooler commits arson to get out of school, DNA sequencing catches cheaters in a high-stakes tea competition, and where in Taiwan to go for New Year's Eve.

On Hear in Taiwan, Shirley Lin and Emma Benack chat about another way that the EPA is trying to persuade Taiwanese scooter owners to switch to electric scooters, the do's and don'ts on winter solstice in Taiwan and the real cause of cluster infections in quarantine hotels in Taiwan.

Tomasz and Leslie sit down and talk about one news story that completely broke Taiwan's news cycle. Then they also talk about the Taipei Marathon and food safety. 

On Hear in Taiwan, Tomasz Koper and Shirley Lin talk about a Siberian crane stranded in Yilan and what Yilan temples are doing for the bird, how you should still not drive the next day after you got drunk, and about a giant lantern in the shape of a robot-like dancing ox!

A bus ride offering gourmet fare is fully booked! Plus, how many people can fit on a scooter? Taiwan may have set a new record. And, how a government promise to let those in the country illegally get vaccinated without arrest hasn't been completely honored.

On Hear in Taiwan, Shirley Lin and Emma Benack talk about a foreign teenager trying to break Guinness Records as the youngest to fly solo across the globe and landing in Taiwan on Tuesday, among other stories.

Leslie and Tomasz discuss some less important, but interesting news stories.

In this edition of Hear in Taiwan, Shirley and Tomasz talk about vehicular fine dining, fine rum, and fine failure.

Toad invasions and the stories of the year in this edition of Hear in Taiwan.

Join us on Hear in Taiwan to find out what AK means at a breakfast shop, how to keep warm in the winter, why chewing betel nut might be bad for you, and how shamanism is coming back to indigenous cultures.

Public brawls, Taiwan's most-viewed YouTube video of the year, and why one political party fears for the safety of Taiwanese athletes taking part in next year's Olympic Games.

On today's Hear in Taiwan, Emma Benack and Shirley Lin touch on topics involving fishing as a job description, vets pushing for legal administering of human drugs for animals, and hikers who were rescued trapped inside a blocked tunnel.

On this edition of Hear in Taiwan, Leslie and Tomasz discuss a US Representative's name for Taiwan, higher education, and a sleepover hosted by a politcal party!

2021-11-29

A new nasal COVID vaccine under development in Taiwan shows promise against the Delta variant, plus Taiwan's plan to protect its convenience store workers from belligerent customers, and two fugitives flee Taiwan for China.

Shirley Lin and Emma Benack talk about ramen, cobra and new immigrants making a mark in Taiwan, on Hear in Taiwan.

Leslie and Tomasz come to you after dealing with technical difficulties. They still bring you a show about Bilingual Nation 2030, Lantern Festival, and coffee. 

On Hear in Taiwan, Shirley Lin and Tomasz Koper talk about how hackers got into cram schools' computer systems, an international film festival voted one of Taiwan's old classics as the greatest Asian film, and a study to send viruses to outer space!

The strange new culinary trend taking over the outlying island of Kinmen, the planned opening of Taiwan's first new geothermal power plant in decades, and Taiwan's most expensive coffee.

Shirley Lin and Emma Benack co-host a fun episode of Hear in Taiwan, talking about Taiwan-made COVID vaccine, a budget airline and driverless delivery vehicles.

Leslie and Tomasz ponder spicy ramen, referndum mania, and a worldwide pride event that's turning heads (for the wrong reasons).

Are you someone who likes to collect memorabilia and loves airplanes? Then this Hear in Taiwan episode is for you.

Why Taiwan is unlikely to reopen its borders before the end of the year, plus Taipei opens the doors on dozens of normally hidden locations, and why West African students are upset at the Taiwanese representative office in the region.

On Hear in Taiwan, Shirley Lin and Emma Benack talk about Taiwanese food chains making their way to Thailand, Taiwanese snacks 'flash-mobbed' in Washington DC and the Yilan County government's plan to transform a center into a multi-purpose building for migrant fishermen.

On Hear in Taiwan Leslie and Tomasz discuss potato chip Hollywood cameos and magic hats that make people better athletes.

On Hear in Taiwan, learn about pollution at one of the most beautiful lakes in Taiwan, how Taiwan could soon have saliva-based PCR tests and the banning of e-cigarettes.

Why a Taiwanese math teacher has chosen to post his lectures on an adult website, plus Taiwan donates supplies to refugees in the Vatican, Taiwan shames motorists for driving too slow, and why Hungary may be the next European country to see warming ties with Taiwan.

Natalie and Emma discuss TSMC and a new, points-based entry system for foreign workers.

Leslie and Staś talk about Taiwan's recent vaccination situation and Halloween! 

On Hear in Taiwan, Shirley Lin and Tomasz Koper talk about more relaxed COVID restrictions in bars and night clubs in Taiwan, and a property owner relinquishing his residence not far from RTI just because it is a cultural heritage site.

John Oliver's piece on Taiwan makes a splash, plus a new herbal remedy for COVID, and why a pair of Taiwan-made sandals are in the news.

On Hear in Taiwan, Shirley Lin and Emma Benack talk about Taiwan produced vaccine Medigen and whether it is on the list of approved vaccines for people vaccinated and entering the United States, and the very first Taipei Buskers Festival that just took place over the weekend.

Today on Hear in Taiwan, Leslie and Staś talk about an massive earthquake that hit Taiwan over the weekend. They also talk about a guy who ran in circles for 3,100 miles. 

On Hear in Taiwan, Shirley Lin and Tomasz Koper talk about the migration of gray-faced buzzards, the good news about noise cameras to cut down on noise pollution, and Taiwan's company HTC making a comeback.

News about this year's Taipei Pride Parade, plus a new chatbot for Taiwan's LGBT community, and a look at Taiwan's newest naturalized citizen.

Today on Hear in Taiwan Leslie, Staś, and Tomasz talk about Taiwan's work hours, strange pizza combinations, and an attempted robbery. 

Today on Hear In Taiwan, Leslie, Emma, and Tomasz talk about a Taiwanese popstar's generous donation, threats to tea, and a mechanic who went out of his way to give great customer service. 

Penghu's Chinese trash problem, Taipei's metro tries to coin a new word, and why you should never breathe fire atop a mountain.

Find out how this gibbon is disrupting plans at the Taipei Zoo by being too giving and more in this episode with Natalie, Emma and Shirley.

Leslie, Tomasz, and Staś talk about newly discovered jumping spiders, aggressive hornets, and postmen. 

The latest culinary abomination to come from the world of Taiwanese pizza, plus a strange caterpillar-triggered rash continues to spread, and the recent success of Taiwan's inventors at an international innovation expo.

The latest update on Taiwan's favorite little black bear, plus the losses Taipei's metro has incurred due to COVID, and a boardgame designed to teach kids about the inner workings of Taiwan's legislature.

Find out about the newest underwater mailbox in Taiwan and how Taiwan is loosenin' up with Natalie, Emma and Tomasz on Hear in Taiwan.

This week, Leslie, Staś talk about wrongly labeled mountains, caterpillar allegeries and Taiwan's Golden Bell Awards.

Could paternity leave help boost Taiwan's flagging birth rate? Plus, a mass wedding is held in Keelung, and what a national park is doing about its deer problem.

Police track down owner of lost winning lottery ticket, the latest ruckus in the legislature, and a new initiative to combat fake news in Taiwan.

Join Natalie, Shirley and Emma as they talk about Taiwan has loosened restrictions on indoor dining and entertainment venues and much more on Hear in Taiwan.

On today's episode of Hear in Taiwan, Leslie, Stas, and Emma talk about tea orders, homework gone missing, Taiwan's naturalization rules, and helicoptor landing zones.

Could Taiwanese researchers have just developed the world's weirdest cat food? Plus a kitten that turns out not to have been a kitten gets rescued, and a look at an artist using shattered pottery pieces to make stunning sculptures.

A mix-up at a morgue, plus how Taiwan ranks globally in terms of internet freedom, and a new immersive display of works by Monet and other masters is coming to town.

Join Natalie, Leslie and Emma as they talk about award-winning photographer Tzeng Chin-fa and two foreigners who made the news while swimming over the Mid-Autumn Festival holiday.

Join Stas, Emma and Shirley as they preview the upcoming Mid-Autumn Festival and introduce some of its stranger traditions.

A farmer on a quest to become Taiwan's biggest suppliers of humane eggs, plus activists call for tighter enforcement of animal protection laws, and from gangster to champion breakdancer-- one man's transformation.

The discovery of a two-headed snake in southern Taiwan, plus what Taiwan is doing to raise its profile as the UN General Assembly meets in New York, and a partial roll-back of restrictions on private Mid-Autumn Festival barbecues in Taipei.

Join Natalie, Shirley and Emma as they talk about their pets and how 7-11 is catering to the pet-loving population of Taiwan in Hear in Taiwan.

On this episode of Hashtag Taiwan, Leslie, Staś, and Emma talk about Taiwanese movies, Chinese people who sail over on boats, and Taiwan's all-inclusive receipt lottery. 

Police sent out to guard onion fields, a funeral for a tree, and plans to boost the number of bilingual classes in Taiwan's schools by 2024.

Taiwan launches new Chinese language institutes in the US! Plus, Taiwan is obsessed with food, but which part of Taiwan spends the most money eating? And, police track down the missing owner of roughly US$90.

Hear about the Taiwanese company that made it to the top of the best companies to work for in Asia for three years in a row and more in Hear in Taiwan.

Leslie, Staś, and Emma talk about the latest vaccine donation to Taiwan from the EU, COVID-19 stress, and a cryptocurrency scam.

A free travel offer for the island nation of Palau comes with an unusual twist. Plus, Taiwan's best-known serial philanthropist is at it again, and a look at a construction worker-turned professional fish lure maker.

Tune into Hear in Taiwan to hear why coffee is taking over tea, and how Ghost Month has fared during the pandemic.

In today's Hear in Taiwan, Leslie gives Staś a little music test. Then they talk about one big boat and one small boat.

The foreign ministry teams up with a French hypermarket chain to bring the tastes of Taiwan's diplomatic allies to barbecues during the Mid-Autumn Festival, plus a COVID vaccine that goes up your nose, and what several Taiwanese brands are doing to combat fashion waste.

Join Leslie, John and Emma as they talk about the Golden Melody Awards, the Michelin guide and more....

There's been a public outcry over the euthanization of 154 high-priced cats. Those stories and more with Natalie and Emma in this episode of Hear in Taiwan.

The creature lurking in the sewers of one Hsinchu township, plus the man who wants to put ramen on Mars and the Taiwan market that's made it on to a list of the best markets in the world.

Do you believe in ghosts? Join Natalie, Shirley and Emma as one of them tells their experience with the spirits and they chat about Ghost Month, how a woman dealt with a creepy customer, and much more on this episode of Hear in Taiwan.

Today, Leslie shares a personal Ghost (Month) story, Staś talks about a popular online game, and the two discuss stimulus vouchers

After a record-breaking performance at the Olympics, Taiwan has now unseated long-time champion Finland to take the gold in another, far more unusual competition...

She might be going viral, but at least not with COVID. Learn about one Taichung resident's unusual fashion choice for a COVID-19 vaccine selfie.

In today's show Leslie Liao and Emma Benack talk about a new giant freight ship, Jeremy Lin, and the rising prices of vegetables.

In this edition of Hear in Taiwan, we introduce the English Service's newest member: Emma! We also talk about ridiculous rain over the past week, and a man who bikes over 40km to work twice a week!

Why Taiwan's teenages can't wait to go back to in-person classes! Plus, why wearing gloves won't protect you from COVID, and a dispute over damage to a very expensive license plate.

Hear how life is changing as Taiwan reopens again.

Find out how many people have chosen to get the local Taiwanese vaccine and how Natalie Tso and Shirley Lin feel about restaurants opening in this episode of Hear in Taiwan.

[Olympics and Zoos] Leslie and Staś talk about Taiwan's stellar Olympic performance (thus far) and the reopening of a popular Taipei City attraction. 

The unique problem facing Taiwan's returning Olympic athletes: what to do with all the free food they're being given? Plus a look at where team Taiwan stands at the Olympic Games, and the fond connection between the first-ever Olympic gold medalist from the Philippines and Taiwan.

2021-07-29

2021-07-27

You'll never believe the speeding ticket one Taichung man got, nor how fast he was going! Plus, why Time Magazine is saying that Taipei is one of the world's best places and a discussion about the plans to release two zoo-born leopard cats into the wild.

2021-07-22

Taiwan's Olympic athletes got fed special chicken cutlet meals like these on their way to Tokyo. Natalie and Shirley talk about that story, convenience stores, and more on this episode of Hear in Taiwan.

The demise of a Taipei landmark, plus five things about Taiwan that drive one British YouTuber crazy, and a look at Taiwan's shaky week and whether more earthquakes might be on the way.

2021-07-15

2021-07-14

A dying wish for apple juice fulfilled, plus why COVID travel restrictions have led to a surge in the number of begging monkeys, and meet the new director of the American Institute in Taiwan's Taipei office.

2021-07-08

In Hear in Taiwan, join Natalie Tso and Shirley Lin as they talk about a new desk designed by students in Taiwan to allow cat owners to work with their cat alongside them.  The design was inspired by cat trees and is the perfect space-saver for Taiwan homes. They also talk about the first V&V trips to Guam, innovative university classes and more interesting trends during Taiwan's soft lockdown.

Leslie and Staś have a little too much fun talking about diplomacy, toys, pizza, and cats. 

The latest culinary monstrosity to hit Taiwan's fast food scene, plus how Hualien is getting library books to the masses even as COVID restrictions leave libraries shuttered, and what COVID-related summer homework assignments Taiwan's schools are giving to their students.

A look at how temples are getting ready for a possible reopening in time for Ghost Month, plus a program designed to stop fishing nets from turning into marine trash, and a new threat to coral on a Taiwan-governed outlying island.

2021-06-30

2021-06-29

A survey looks at comic book reading trends among Taiwan's Generation Z, plus why Taiwanese tourists may soon flock to Guam again, and a look at how COVID-19 may change Taiwan's restaurant industry for good.

The strange way that Taiwan will repay Lithuania for a donation of vaccines, plus the bizarre reason that one man in Kaohsiung stole a motorbike and road it cross-country, and one wealthy man's reasoning for buying up the entire business class section of a plane.

2021-06-22

Virtual guided tours: the new pandemic tourism trend! Plus, the Tourism Bureau puts the kibosh on the idea of group vaccination tours abroad, and Uber Taiwan launches a package delivery service.

Caught skipping the queue for COVID-19 vaccination, plus, could COVID-19 reap a grim harvest in terms of bankrupt cram schools?

2021-06-16

2021-06-15

A man who thought he might find a prince but ended up getting fined for a mask violation instead, a mother using geese to keep her kids in line, and a stray dog from Taiwan gets a chance at a new life in Canada.

2021-06-10

2021-06-09

2021-06-08

The latest twist in Taiwan baseball's Olympic involvement, plus one Kaohsiung mother's extreme way of keeping her son at home during the COVID-19 outbreak, and a look at the Taiwanese military's chemical unit, in the spotlight as they work to keep COVID-19 under control.

A retraction, a look at Taiwan's new "Space Bill", and good news on the language preservation front.

As Taiwan continues its soft lockdown, the government has loads of advice for citizens: don't shop at markets too often, forgive your spouse if he/she annoys you, and don't spend too much on screens.  Hear Natalie Tso and Shirley Lin chat about all this and more on Hear in Taiwan. 

A forest fire is brought under control, the latest COVID-19 stories from Taiwan, plus free online streaming of classic Taiwanese films with English subtitles.

2021-05-27

2021-05-26

Today, Leslie, Staś, and Andrew bring you an update on Taiwan's COVID-19 situation. Plus: Taiwan's kids are geniuses?!

2021-05-21

A discussion of pineapples, Taiwan's reputation as a good place for expats to live, and a new treatment for COVID-19 based on traditional medicine.

2021-05-19

Let's talk about what happened with COVID-19 over the weekend in Taiwan

A student with a sense of civic duty steps in to direct traffic after mass blackouts knock out traffic lights across the country, a controversy over a pink cat, and an app Taiwan's government will reward a lucky few for downloading.

Today we discuss Taiwan's response to recent domestic clusters of COVID-19.

Join us on Hear in Taiwan as we talk about how Taiwan is making it easier for foreigners to live and work here, a Taiwanese iron man who jetpacked around Taiwan, leopards escaping from a zoo and a big fuss over someone chosing to be a vetenarian over a doctor. 

2021-05-11

Of cockroaches, a plan to boost Taiwan's birth rate, and yet another setback to hit Taoyuan Airport's planned Terminal 3.

2021-05-06

Learn the latest news about a cockroach attack in Taipei - and Shirley Lin's own horror stories - and one of the snobbies line groups around in this episode of Hear in Taiwan.

In today's Hear in Taiwan, Andrew Ryan kicks off with his personal experience of staycationing in Taipei at a fancy hotel.  Plus:  - Do Taiwanese love to apologize? The nationwide vocational school entrance exams were held over the weekend, and there was a whole essay portion dedicated to a phrase that could be translated as "excuse me." Original article in Chinese, via United Daily News: https://udn.com/news/story/6929/5427817  - How do you like them apples? Inaugural 'Polish Apple Night' held in Taipei https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/4190773  - Do not take in wild birds as pets or you could be fined in Taiwan:  https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2021/05/03/2003756745  

How one enterprising man is turning a drought into cash. Plus, could New Taipei ban vaping? And a look at an initiative to make Taiwan's hotels more friendly to cyclists.

2021-04-29

2021-04-28

We got rain last weekend in central and southern Taiwan, but not enough. Andrew Ryan shares his experience of seeing the brand new Kaohsiung Music Center (pictured) during a light drizzle. Find out how much water is left in Taiwan's 21 reservoirs: http://water.taiwanstat.com Also: 1) Stas goes on a hike, and explains why the Vice President says you should take a hike too! https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/4186563 2) Allison has a story about some delivery man shenanigans.  3) We wrap up with this heartwarming story from Leslie: https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2021/04/26/2003756375

Why Taiwan could make it harder for residents to change their names, the odd punishment for tardy students that's got one teacher in hot water, plus students take charge of cleaning cigarette butts off Tainan's streets, and the military's plan to bring temple volunteers into its ranks in an emergency.

2021-04-22

2021-04-21

2021-04-20

On passport power, a Taiwanese snack food that's making international headlines, and the addition of two new indigenous Taiwanese languages to the Wikipedia family.

On loud music in Taiwan's parks, the expansion of Taiwan's receipt lottery, the extension of COVID-19 vaccination to more groups, and Taipei's shrinking population.

2021-04-14

Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at one of the biggest processions in the time of COVID: the DaJia Mazu Pilgrimage! Leslie Liao was one of the broadcasters for the live stream, and he'll be telling us what he saw! You'll find a link to the coverage here: https://youtu.be/mn5TRixHht4 PLUS: - This story lies at the intersection of dried pineapple, Twitter, chess, hoodies, and diplomacy, and it stars former US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. View the Tweet here: https://twitter.com/bikhim/status/1381403111928049665  - A very slow-moving threat: pet turtles could give you salmonella! https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2021/04/11/2003755480  - If you pretend you’re really sick, sometimes your boss might visit you in hospital: https://udn.com/news/story/7321/5379265 

The tale of an iPhone that survived a year-long plunge beneath Taiwan's Sun Moon Lake. Plus, a new feline friendly focus for nothern Taiwan's "cat village" and when we can expect COVID-19 vaccines for all in Taiwan.

How low can Taiwan's birth rate go? Plus an update on the ongoing drought, the rediscovery of priceless paintings, and a BAFTA award for Taiwanese-American director Ang Lee.

2021-04-07

It’s been several days of rough news out of Taiwan. Today we’ll offer some suggestions for making a donation for the victims of last Friday’s train crash. And, we’ll share some lighter stories, including some brighter moments from the weekend. (Pictured: Andrew’s first attempt at blowing acrylic across a canvas with a straw.)   Donations for victims of train crash: https://focustaiwan.tw/society/202104040014   Some other stories: New Taipei City police find 13 stolen racing pigeons https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2021/04/04/2003755067    Self-defense against monkeys legal: Kaohsiung agency https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2021/04/04/2003755068

Join us for a look at the most common causes of wildfires on Taiwan government land, an early taste of Taiwan-grown white truffles, and an examination of how one beach resort island is getting people to pick up after themselves.

2021-04-01

2021-03-31

2021-03-30

Why a horse is "irking" the central city of Taichung, plus secret tunnels and how a Taiwanese-operated ship ended up jamming up the Suez Canal.

2021-03-25

Join us for Tuesday Teatime with Andrew, Paula and Shirley. Today, we're only saving a little bit of water for our tea -- that's because we're facing the biggest water crisis in 56 years, according to Premier Su. How much water is left in Taiwan's reservoirs? This website will show you (in Chinese): https://water.taiwanstat.com/    Also in today's show:  1. How has COVID impacted library visits? Paula has the story.  2. Shirley tells us how people changing their name to "salmon" ended up wasting rice.  3. Learn why worshippers at a Taichung temple made food offerings of mochi and peanuts. Learn more (in Chinese): https://udn.com/news/story/7325/5316782?from=udn-catelistnews_ch2  

2021-03-23

2021-03-22

A weird name changing trend spawned by one restaurant's offer of free sushi, promoting awareness of Taiwan's mountain garbage problem, and the latest on the Taiwan-Palau COVID-19 travel bubble. Plus, John disappears from screen and gets a new nickname.

Join Natalie, Shirley and Paula on Hear in Taiwan as they talk about the latest escapee from the Taipei Zoo, a red monkey named "Male Road". They also talk about and play a Japanese band's Taiwan Pineapple Song that they composed for Taiwan and talk about delicious pot stickers!

A stack of frogs has revealed the severity of the water shortage at Taiwan's most iconic lake destination: Sun Moon Lake. Find out more in today's Monday Mandate with Staś, Leslie and Andrew. PLUS:  Taiwan’s oldest IKEA is closing its doors (L): https://focustaiwan.tw/business/202103150007 An 88-year-old woman was found after she went missing for 5 days (L): https://focustaiwan.tw/society/202103140009 Taiwanese street cleaner turns in large sum of found cash: https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/4150703

Taiwan's first aerial pilgrimage, lowered penalties for pot possession, and why the founder of one popular English school here thinks that Taiwan is like "a diamond in Asia".

Taiwan may form a travel bubble with Palau plus Taiwan's favorite and least favorite side dishes and the advance of fake meat in the Taiwanese market.

Join us in Hear in Taiwan as Natalie, Paula and Shirley discuss how Taiwan news outlets covered the Harry and Megan interview and talk about the latest figures on sexual harassment and over 200 flavors of fried rice!

In today’s Hear in Taiwan, Leslie Liao, Staś Butler and Andrew Ryan shine a spotlight on International Women’s Day. How is Taiwan doing in terms of political participation? We’ll give you the numbers.    Plus:  The Health Ministry lets us know we’ve been misgendering their mascot: a Shiba Inu called Zongcai: https://twitter.com/MOHW_Taiwan/status/1368725739332272131  Irrigation authorities out of ideas, turn to sea goddess to solve island’s drought: https://focustaiwan.tw/society/202103060005  Olympic Athletes will get priority access to vaccines: https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2021/03/08/2003753461 Songshan airport only airport in Taiwan to turn a profit: https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2021/03/08/2003753460

2021-03-08

2021-03-04

2021-03-03

The Monday Mandate brings together Leslie Liao, Staś Butler and Andrew Ryan on a long holiday weekend. Tune in to learn about the origins of the 228 holiday.  Plus:  When soldiers get tired of shootin', they like to relax with a nice bit of… shootin' (https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2021/02/28/2003752984) Elementary school discovers what appear to be old masterpieces by Japanese painter (Learn more about him here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kinichiro_Ishikawa)   

2021-03-01

2021-02-25

2021-02-24

NASA is looking for signs of life on the red planet. So who have they chosen to drive the new Mars rover? A Taiwanese scientists by the name of Yen Cheng! Learn more:  https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2021/02/22/2003752658  PLUS:  - A Technical mission introduces Taiwan watermelons to the deserts of Bahrain: https://focustaiwan.tw/politics/202102210007 - A guy told his parents he was a star student at a top-rated university. Spoiler alert: He wasn't. Now his parents are suing. https://focustaiwan.tw/society/202102200002

2021-02-22

2021-02-18

2021-02-17

Today's Hear in Taiwan is brought to you by the color RED. That's in honor of the Lunar New Year, of course, which is well under way in Taiwan and across much of Asia! Celebrate with Leslie, Stas and Andrew as they take a closer look at why people wear red underwear, hang red couplets on their doors, and give red envelopes stuffed full of money!

2021-02-15

2021-02-11

2021-02-10

Mr. Chen San-yuan has 72 smart phones. The reason? He uses them to play Pokemon Go! There's just one problem: what do you do when you get multiple earthquake warnings on all 72 phones? In today's Hear in Taiwan Leslie, Staś and Andrew tell you how long it took Mr. Chen, a fengshui master, to turn off all the notifications.    Plus:  Foxconn gave away WHAT at their Year-end party? https://focustaiwan.tw/business/202102060019?fbclid=IwAR0RqmfG0CoWlrLnLp60xOPMM30xROmMbbtG9asXcC4RuZBN-dRTegFXgO8  No more drinking games, say health officials https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2021/02/08/2003751983 

2021-02-08

2021-02-04

2021-02-03

2021-02-02

2021-02-01

2021-01-28

2021-01-27

2021-01-26

2021-01-25

2021-01-21

2021-01-20

It's a brand new combo on the mics today: Stas, Shirley and Andrew. One of them tells us about a family member quarantining in their apartment; another shares a naked hot spring experience; and the third talks about submarine-shaped Kaoliang bottles. Tune in to catch the fun!

There's a goose on the loose in Yilan County, and it's got everyone excited. But what makes this atypical avian so special? Where did it come from? How did it get here? And if there's more than one goose on the loose, does that make it... geese on the leese? Join John, Shirley and Staś on Monday's Hear in Taiwan to find out all this and more.

The future is here, and it's coming to a night market near you. Authorities in Keelung are using LiDAR cameras powered by artificial intelligence to track crowd sizes at the city's biggest night market. But why now? And what's it to you? Find out by joining John, Natalie and Staś on today's episode of Hear in Taiwan.

As Taiwan faces its coldest winter in years, the government has relaxed rules on wearing coats inside schools. But some high schools aren't giving up their high standards of school uniform without a fight... Join Natalie, Shirley and Staś for today's episode of Hear in Taiwan to find out more.

The Puyuma people (of Taitung in southeastern Taiwan) hold their annual festival every year on Dec. 31. RTI's Andrew Ryan shares his experiences in today's Hear in Taiwan! Plus, Stas Butler and Leslie Liao way in on the following stories: Motorcyclist gets 4 tickets in 2 minutes for not signaling lane change. https://focustaiwan.tw/society/202101100012 People ain’t getting married, yo. https://focustaiwan.tw/society/202101090008 It’s cold. There’s snow. People are freakin’ out, man. https://focustaiwan.tw/society/202101100011

2021-01-11

2021-01-07

2021-01-06

2021-01-05

2021-01-04

2020-12-31

2020-12-30

2020-12-29

2020-12-28

2020-12-24

2020-12-23

2020-12-22

2020-12-21

2020-12-17

2020-12-16

This episode of Hear in Taiwan has an explosive beginning with a look at how landmines are washing up on the shores of Kinmen. Learn more here:  https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2020/12/14/2003748686 Plus: 1. Taichung MRT opening postponed https://focustaiwan.tw/society/202012140006  2. The Council of Agriculture will launch Uber, but with tractors and other big farm stuff:  https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2020/12/13/2003748641

2020-12-14

2020-12-10

2020-12-09

​​​​​​It's hard to say what prompted Andrew and Leslie to assemble an actual Christmas tree in the studio during today's Hear in Taiwan. But let's just say... it was a special experience. Catch the Facebook Live version of today's show to watch them fumbling about, trying to juggle a full-size tree AND a radio show, all in one raucous 45 minute live show: https://fb.watch/2dZ48PSqBi/  PLUS: A Recycled Christmas Tree made of WHAT? https://focustaiwan.tw/photos/20201127ENP0006m  A Landslide interrupts train service to Eastern Taiwan. Leslie is supposed to go to Eastern Taiwan this week, ahhhhh https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2020/12/07/2003748272 Taichung has three times more cars than it does parking spaces https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2020/12/07/2003748269 Uzbekistan wants Taiwanese Chickens!? Leslie says, "You can’t have them, because I want to eat them."  https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2020/12/06/2003748219

2020-12-07

2020-12-03

2020-12-02

New rules go into affect today (Dec. 1) in Taiwan, requiring face masks in most indoor public places. Learn more about where masks are required: https://focustaiwan.tw/society/202011305001    PLUS 1. More than 70% of people do not approve of ractopamine pork imports: https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2020/11/27/2003747684 2. There was a bug in woman's ear and Leslie is not here for it: https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2020/11/27/2003747692 3. Senior citizens throwdown in Pingtung (we featured this in the post-show of our live recording on Facebook): https://focustaiwan.tw/sports/202011290005  

2020-11-30

2020-11-26

2020-11-25

What were the biggest and most surprising wins at this year's Golden Horse Awards? Andrew and Leslie weigh in on some of Taiwan's brightest stars at what's often called the Chinese-language Oscars. Learn more: https://focustaiwan.tw/culture/202011220002  Plus:  1. Chunghwa Telecom is going to start trial deliveries with DRONES. WHAT: https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2020/11/23/2003747432 2. Almost half of Taiwanese adults are overweight?!  https://taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2020/11/23/2003747433

2020-11-23

2020-11-19

2020-11-18

Okay, it's not really "infrastructure week" in Taiwan, that's just Leslie and Andrew's name for this edition of "Casual Monday" Hear in Taiwan. But before we get to all that transportation news, Andrew's got a doozy about his a weekend TV shoot he did at RTI for a program that could be translated literally as "Chinese Medicine Doctor on a Mission." (Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DaaiCMDoctor)  Plus: New METRO line opens in Taichung: https://youtu.be/00J3Wmd0_Pw New Tamsui Light Rail Line begins tests: https://focustaiwan.tw/society/202011150014  Census running into trouble https://focustaiwan.tw/society/202011140014

2020-11-16

2020-11-12

2020-11-11

Why not just put it right out there? Today's live-streamed episode of Hear in Taiwan featured an unplanned-but-fabulous 360-degree camera fail that really should go viral. Watch here (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/RadioTaiwanInternational/videos/845053326243455/ Also in today's show:  1. Post-election cleansers, and concerns about fake US-election-related news in Taiwan; see analysis via Fulbright Scholar Lev Nachman (on Twitter):  https://twitter.com/lnachman32/status/1320607525687808001  2. Fancy lunch boxes: https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2020/11/09/2003746625 3. The woman who splashed red paint on former president Lee’s portrait has been charged: https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2020/11/07/2003746527

2020-11-09

2020-11-05

2020-11-04

This past weekend, Taipei held the world's largest Pride Parade since the pandemic began. In today's Hear in Taiwan, Leslie and Andrew give you some inside details! Plus:  1. Is a tropical storm heading our way? https://focustaiwan.tw/society/202011020005  2. Stimulus Coupons for permanent residents? (Or as Leslie calls them: "stim coops") https://focustaiwan.tw/business/202010300017  3. Leslie "Running Man" Liao weighs in on the Penghu concept of seafood + marathons, and tells us all about his personal experiences at a Taipei race over the weekend. 

2020-11-02

2020-10-29

2020-10-28

Today's Hear in Taiwan kicks off with a look at a bike ride that took place over the weekend to promote LGBT visibility: Rainbow Ride Asia! Visit their website: https://www.asiarainbowride.com/ and on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/asiarainbowride    Also in today's show:  The city rivalries continue! This time, Tainan and Taichung are showing down with pastries. https://www.cdns.com.tw/articles/294679  Relations with India are on the rise! Relations with India are on the rise! https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/front/archives/2020/10/26/2003745809 People be shoppin’ til’ they droppin’ https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2020/10/26/2003745818 

2020-10-26

2020-10-22

2020-10-21

Today we learned that diplomats from China assaulted a diplomat from Taiwan in Fiji on October 8. Here's the Tweet that tipped us off, and the accompanying article:  https://twitter.com/WilliamYang120/status/1318002297931059202  https://asiapacificreport.nz/about/  Plus, today's Hear in Taiwan will also look at:  1. EARTHQUAAAAAAAAAAAKES in Tainan: https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2020/10/19/2003745426  2. Taiwan's newest ministry: the Ministry of Digital Development: https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2020/10/19/2003745422  3. Chicken excrement attack at a HK restaurant in Taiwan: https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2020/10/17/2003745321  4. Taipei-Yilan high speed rail finalized: https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/front/archives/2020/10/15/2003745180

John Van Trieste and Shirley Lin talk about the escape of an anteater at the Taipei Zoo, a heartwarming story of the kindness of an animal rescue group making it possible for a single mother's stray dog have surgery to save its life, and the confusion over the translation of a Canadian dish that takes after the Russian president's name, on Hear in Taiwan.

2020-10-15

2020-10-14

Join us for the two-man review that is today's Hear in Taiwan! Leslie and Andrew recap the live national day broadcast from the weekend, and discuss why the BBC might have mistakenly marked images from the parade as being in "Pyongyang" (North Korea).  Plus:  BBC labels Taiwan as Pyongyang during National Day https://twitter.com/LazyWorkz/status/1314739364157689857    Taiwan train design one of winners at Japan's Good Design Award https://focustaiwan.tw/culture/202010110005  Taipei police give back lost NT$50m https://taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2020/10/12/2003745036  3 hour Rainbow in Taipei! https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/4028365  Man finds NT$6 million rock https://www.mirrormedia.mg/story/20201007web016/

Join Shirley Lin, John Van Trieste and our intern Claire Chen on Hear in Taiwan to learn that Claire is actually a soccer coach, that Tainan city is going to hold its biggest marathon and that Taiwan has a mascot that's a fish head!

2020-10-08

Tune into Hear in Taiwan as Natalie, Paula and Shirley discuss the latest free ride in Taiwan - a driverless bus. The ladies also talk about the prospect of women in the military, how often people frequent convenience stores, wedding attire etiquette in Taiwan and a new way to watch the National Day fireworks.

2020-10-06

Join Shirley Lin and John Van Trieste on Hear in Taiwan as they talk about the national day light show in front of the Presidential Office Building featuring face masks and a Vietnamese woman who has done a lot for the new immigrants in Taiwan, as well as donated a bloodmobile in her second hometown of Chiayi.

2020-10-01

2020-09-30

2020-09-29

Tune in to Hear in Taiwan to learn how a picture of a Formosan black dog holding a very Taiwanese drink in its jaws went viral!   Photo credit: Expreed / CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)

2020-09-24

2020-09-23

Lee Bao-kang (李寶康) is undeniably one of the most ripped seniors in all of Taiwan. Recently, he won in the over-58 category at the Masters Bodybuilding Competition, and now he's encouraging people to work out. We'll introduce you to him in today's Hear in Taiwan.  Plus:  1) Taiwan prepares for "the big one" with text alerts and a 1,300-person strong earthquake drill on 9/21 (National Disaster Prevention Day) 2) National Education Radio wins big at the Golden Bells (Taiwan's radio awards) 3) YouTuber Aga Tsai (蔡阿嘎) makes waves with his MRT art/ads featuring his son

2020-09-21

2020-09-17

2020-09-16

Today is the first episode of Hear in Taiwan that's being offered both via radio and Facebook Live. If you'd like to watch this episode, you'll find it here on the Radio Taiwan International fan page: https://www.facebook.com/RadioTaiwanInternational/videos/372343717093753   As for some of the topics in today's show:  - 23 people get stuck in elevators at Xinyi department store  - A study from Oxford University says Taiwan disproves the idea that countries have to choose between health and the economy when it comes to dealing with COVID-19  - There's an increasing number of sea turtle nests are across Taiwan (Leslie) - Some parents are saying that a book recommended by the Education Ministry will turn their kids gay - Six Taiwanese buildings receive international architecture awards https://focustaiwan.tw/culture/202009130007  

2020-09-14

2020-09-10

2020-09-09

2020-09-08

Join Shirley Lin and John Van Trieste on Hear in Taiwan as they talk about why bats are making a comeback at a bat cave in Taoyuan after two decades of disappearance. Also, they discuss the fire department's reminders about things to watch out for during the ghost month, and cruise tours around Taiwan's main island and some of its outlying small islands.

2020-09-03

Tune into Hear in Taiwan to hear about how Taipei is using pangolin diplomacy to build sister ties with Prague and its newest policy on pet birds, and pedestrians at crosswalks.

2020-09-01

Join Shirley Lin and John Van Trieste on Hear in Taiwan, talking about why microplastic pollution is commonplace during summer around Taiwan, why first time jobseekers are hard to find full time jobs, and how a foreigner based in Taiwan put real life scenery on Taiwan banknotes into perspective.

2020-08-27

Tune into Hear in Taiwan to hear about Joseph Lin, Jeremy Lin's brother, and his Taiwanese identity,  Chinese Valentine's Day do's and don'ts, an unlikely success story of a Taiwanese designer at Apple, and how fresh grads are faring in the job market.