From Liangjiahe, a village on the barren Loess Plateau in northwest China, to Zhongnanhai, the center of China’s top leadership in Beijing, Xi Jinping has served in various posts at different levels of the government across China, starting in his early years as a junior village official to governing as China’s top leader.

What is he like as an individual and as a leader? How have his work experiences from earlier decades been influencing his leadership as the national leader? What are some of the core principles that have guided his decisions and actions?

The “Stories of Xi Jinping” podcast series shares the life and work experiences of Xi Jinping and explores the formation of his governing principles, philosophy, beliefs, among others.

Getting to know Xi’s thoughts on national governance and how his leadership took shape may help you better understand China’s path, governance and principles.