In recent years, podcasts have truly exploded in popularity, exemplified by Luo Yonghao's "Crossroads," which consistently generates numerous trending topics with each episode, cementing Luo's status as an enduring top-tier internet celebrity. Beyond Luo, influential figures across the board are either launching podcasts or planning to do so, and even Zhang Zetian, the wife of JD.com's founder, is no exception. Yesterday, Zhang Zetian officially announced the launch of her personal podcast, named "Xiao Tian Zhang." The response was overwhelming; her introductory first episode, though under three minutes long, amassed over 10,000 listens within just two hours of release, with more than 300 people tuning in simultaneously, and her podcast subscriber count has already surpassed 10,000.
Regarding the podcast's name, Zhang Zetian explained, "Before settling on 'Xiao Tian Zhang,' I considered many other options, but ultimately circled back to it. 'Tian Zhang' represents the fundamental laws governing all things and has also been my WeChat name for many years. Using this name signifies my desire to present my most authentic self to everyone." In the podcast, she also mentioned that she hasn't expressed herself much publicly over the years, but as she matures, she feels she grows and improves annually, including in her perspective on issues.
She further expressed her enjoyment in conversing with entrepreneurs to learn about the latest technological developments and shifts in business models. Moving forward, she plans to share her reflections on life, topics that interest her, and casual conversations with friends on the podcast. Simultaneously, she revealed that her first guest interviewee will be Carina Lau. Subsequently, Carina Lau posted a video of their chat, captioning it: "The Zhang Zetian I know is as gentle as spring water, her eyes holding boundless warmth; yet beneath that softness lies an undeniable firmness and strength, like a stream that can nourish silently yet also carve through stone. It was a joy to have this opportunity to share some snippets of life with you."
Notably, in the comments section, highly upvoted messages overwhelmingly called for inviting Liu Qiangdong (Richard Liu) as a guest, with the topic "Netizens urge Zhang Zetian to interview Liu Qiangdong" quickly climbing the trending charts. Eager netizens even suggested potential interview directions for a conversation with Liu Qiangdong, such as "personal brand building," "breaking stereotypical labels," "female ambition and desire"; JD.com's business model, the early internet ecosystem, and e-commerce's impact on aesthetics; as well as their collaborative dynamics as a couple and balancing career and family.
Naturally, the public's anticipation for a Zhang Zetian-Liu Qiangdong dialogue stems largely from a fascination with the lives of the ultra-wealthy, hoping to glimpse behind-the-scenes decision-making at JD.com and the dynamics of a high-profile marriage. Particularly in the business world, the marriage of Liu Qiangdong and Zhang Zetian is highly unique: firstly, there is a significant age gap between them, and secondly, Liu Qiangdong has navigated the Minnesota incident. Beyond these factors, however, they are also seen as a model power couple in business, frequently displaying affection publicly and growing both personally and professionally together.
In terms of public displays of affection, during their early relationship, they were spotted with Zhang Zetian gazing adoringly ("eyes speaking volumes") while Liu Qiangdong knelt to take photos of her. Now parents to several children, they remain visibly affectionate; for instance, at a recent conference they attended together, Liu Qiangdong joked about being photographed in unflattering shots with Zhang Zetian, saying it shattered his confidence in front of his wife... On the business front, with mutual support, JD.com has saved substantial advertising costs, while Zhang Zetian has rapidly ascended as a standout in the investment field—transitioning from Tsinghua University's "campus belle" to an investor leading multi-million yuan projects like NIO, and ranking among the top three on the Tsinghua Alumni Wealth Creation List in 2024 with an estimated fortune of 60 billion yuan. Should they indeed engage in a public dialogue, it would undoubtedly be filled with compelling moments. Are you looking forward to it?
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