What is daily life in China really like? In this special episode, Carl Zha is given a personal, ground-level tour of Shanghai by the “Godfather of Chinese Hip Hop,” Dana “Showtyme” Burton. We go far beyond the tourist spots to explore Dana’s own neighborhood, a transformed area that showcases China’s poverty alleviation and ecological civilization programs.
We debunk widespread Western myths about China, from Tucker Carlson’s false claims about COVID lockdowns to the reality of Muslim life in Shanghai. See the stunning before-and-after of a former shantytown, explore a “15-minute city” community center, visit the breathtaking “Thousand Trees” complex, and end the day at a massive, bustling Halal restaurant.
This is the China you never see in the media.
(00:00) – Introduction: Meet Dana Showtyme Burton, the Godfather of Chinese Hip Hop
(01:45) – The Mission: Exploring a Model Community in Shanghai
(03:20) – Before & After: The Stunning Transformation of Suzhou Creek
(07:00) – The Role of State-Owned Enterprise (COSCO) in Urban Renewal
(08:50) – Contrast: Detroit’s Decline vs. Shanghai’s Rise
(11:30) – A Look Inside Dana’s Affordable, Modern Apartment Complex
(13:45) – Debunking Tucker Carlson: The Truth About COVID in This Community
(16:10) – The “15-Minute City” in Practice: Walkability, Green Spaces & Safety
(22:45) – Ubiquitous Halal Culture: Muslim-Friendly Life in Shanghai
(29:00) – Inside the Communist Party Community Center (Spoiler: It’s Not Scary)
(38:20) – Exploring the “Thousand Trees” Art & Shopping Complex
(42:30) – The “Hui Flavor” Halal Food Court: A Feast for the Senses
(01:01:30) – Final Thoughts: Debunking Myths and Encouraging Travel
RESOURCES & LINKS MENTIONED
Follow Dana Showtime on X (Twitter): @xDetroitShowtyme
Watch Germ’s Debunk of Tucker Carlson: On the “Germ Warfare” channel (UK Column)
Architect Mentioned: Thomas Heatherwick (Designer of the “Thousand Trees” complex)