Tea With TJ

TJ Bolden
  • 5.0 (9)
  • RELATIONSHIPS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to Tea with TJ! A Podcast on self-discovery where our love for tea, conversation, a deeper understanding of life, and self-improvement intersect. Life is messy and sometimes you just need a cup of tea!

  1. APR 22

    Creative Burnout, Career Shifts, and Finding Purpose Again

    A dream can be so familiar that you stop asking whether it’s actually yours. I sit down with my friend Hillary Dominguez to talk about what happens when motivation fades in a creative career and how one unexpected moment can completely reroute your path. Hillary shares her story of growing up as a child actor in Seattle, chasing musical theater, and carrying that quiet pressure that you’re always one year away from the “big break.”  and the surprising way a mentor offered a safer step forward: assistant directing. That behind-the-scenes doorway turned into a real passion for directing, casting, and building stories from the other side of the table. We also get honest about imposter syndrome, downplaying your own work, and the tricky balance of collaborative leadership. Finally, we go deep on vulnerability, therapy, self-respect, and building a chosen family that holds you accountable when your dreams feel scary to say out loud. If you’re navigating burnout, a career pivot, or the question of what you want next, this conversation is for you. Subscribe to Tea With TJ, share this with a friend who needs it, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway. Support the show Join us in conversation on socials: Youtube Instagram Tik Tok Twitter Substack Threads

    42 min

  2. APR 15

    Art, Identity, and Growth During Seasons of Change

    A song can be a boundary you finally honor. We sit down with Eight—artist, activist, and wellness visionary—for the exclusive premiere of “Switch Up,” a pulsing statement born from being underestimated and deciding not to be. That spark opens a candid journey through creative growth, mental health, and a bold reimagining of what a supportive community can look like for artists and neighbors alike. We start with craft: how moving from overthinking to feeling changed Eight's songwriting, and why certain lines hit like a mirror when love turns careless. From there, the lens widens to seasons of change—moving from New York to Florida, navigating trauma, shedding people-pleasing, and choosing a new brand identity rooted in warmth, and grace. Eight shares practical tools for anxiety and depression, from breathwork and yoga to guided meditation, and explains how those practices inform a new wellness collective bridging art, mental health, and community resources so people can be seen for both their creativity and their lived experience. Spirituality threads the conversation. Eight speaks openly about a love-centered view of God and the universe, then shares the power of identifying as Two-Spirit in Indigenous tradition—honoring both masculine and feminine energies, protecting gifts, and leading with service. We trade rituals that keep us steady—morning grounding, the simple ceremony of tea—and name the mindset shifts that carry us through uncertainty: zoom out, choose worth, and keep eyes on the horizon. If you’re standing at the edge of a big decision, take Eight’s clean advice: don’t believe the doubt. If this conversation moved you, tap follow, share it with a friend who needs a nudge, and leave a quick review so more people can find the show. What season are you in right now? Switch up Single Listen Here Follow Eight on IG @theeighthking Support the show Join us in conversation on socials: Youtube Instagram Tik Tok Twitter Substack Threads

    47 min

  3. FEB 25

    Letting the Mask Go: Accepting All Parts of Yourself

    What happens when the mask that kept you safe starts to shrink your life? We sit down with our friend Jeffrey Vizcaino—actor turned Playbill social lead—to talk about performance, protection, and the messy art of speaking in your real voice. Jeffrey takes us from his early theater years and burnout to building inclusive platforms for new songwriters and off-Broadway creators. Then we get honest about the masks queer people of color learn to wear: the lowered register to dodge mockery, the “retail voice” that smooths edges, the posture we adopt in rooms thick with flags that feel like warnings. The conversation moves from community to self. Inside queer spaces, labels can liberate and limit at the same time. We unpack “masc for masc,” desirability politics, and the pressure to refit your hair, clothes, and energy to match a trend that changes with the algorithm. Jeffrey shares how confidence lands differently when a camera and a celebrity are involved. We draw a line between professionalism and self-erasure, and why platform size shouldn’t be the price of authenticity. Therapy and language become turning points. TJ shares how the pandemic ended his habit of filtering Southern Black vernacular to stay “palatable,” and how learning to name feelings—clearly and without apology—changed work and love. We talk about emotional masks, why partners aren’t therapists, and the small rituals that help us unmask at home. Along the way we make space for joy and the everyday grace of liking your own smile or your own eyes in the mirror. If you’ve ever wondered where safety ends and self begins, this one’s for you. Hit follow, share with a friend who needs the reminder, and leave a review with the mask you’re ready to retire. Your story could be the permission someone else is waiting for. Support the show Join us in conversation on socials: Youtube Instagram Tik Tok Twitter Substack Threads

    53 min

  4. FEB 18

    Honesty With Yourself: The Conversations That Change Us

    What we leave unsaid can steer our lives as much as anything we declare. This week, we sit down with producer and theater enthusiast Kevin Ferg to trace the quiet turning points that shaped his path—from Columbus, Ohio, to the buzzing stages and back offices of New York City. Over a pot of strawberry green tea, we dig into the messy middle between truth and strategy: how coming out unlocked confidence and creativity, and how staying silent at work can be smart or self-defeating depending on what’s at stake. We talk candidly about fear of being othered, the relief of finally saying “I’m gay,” and the strange ways auditions, rooms, and relationships shift once you’re not hiding. Then we get practical: when silence preserves your future self, when it erodes your body and paycheck, and how collective voice can move a room more safely than going solo. His story about dancing eight months in shoes two sizes too small becomes a blueprint for better boundaries, clearer asks, and protecting your craft. If you’ve ever wondered whether to speak, to wait, or to let the room carry the message, this conversation offers real-world cues and hard-won wisdom. Press play, sip something sweet, and tell us: what truth changed your path once you finally said it out loud? If this resonated, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review—your words help more listeners find us. Support the show Join us in conversation on socials: Youtube Instagram Tik Tok Twitter Substack Threads

    40 min

  5. 12/11/2024

    Writing Down Desires: Enhancing the Manifestation Process

    In this episode, TJ and and guest TJ Gibson discuss the power of manifestation and the importance of writing down your desires. They share personal stories of how they have manifested things in their lives and the role of gratitude in the manifestation process. They also discuss the balance between being specific in your manifestations and remaining open to different possibilities. TJ shares how he has manifested clients and his career as a stylist, while TJ emphasizes the importance of finding peace at home. They both express their fear of not fully realizing their purpose and the practice of gratitude through writing and speaking. Support the show Join us in conversation on socials: Youtube Instagram Tik Tok Twitter Substack Threads

    35 min

  6. 10/30/2024

    A Candid Look at Embracing Life's Rejections With Calvin M. Thompson

    Join us for an intimate conversation with the talented Calvin M. Thompson as we explore the complexities of navigating rejection in the arts. From his roots in Aiken, South Carolina, to the bustling streets of New York City, Calvin shares his journey and the resilience it requires to thrive as a Black artist in a demanding industry. We reminisce about our first meeting during auditions for the Motown national tour and discuss how our connection has evolved into a rich friendship. Calvin opens up about the inspiration he drew from Barack Obama's 2008 election, a milestone that fueled his belief in his potential and set the tone for his artistic endeavors. We also tackle the profound themes of self-love and purpose, drawing on the wisdom of the late Chadwick Boseman. Calvin and I reflect on the grounding power of love and how embracing rejection can lead to true alignment with one's path. Through personal anecdotes, we discuss the unpredictable nature of the theater world and the courage it takes to walk away from opportunities that don't resonate with personal values. This episode offers listeners a fresh perspective on finding authenticity and fulfillment in their work by embracing each "no" as a stepping stone to the right "yes." Finally, we celebrate the importance of maintaining identity and authenticity in creative spaces. Calvin and I delve into the responsibility of choosing roles that reflect diverse Black experiences and the challenge of staying true to oneself amidst external pressures. We share our aspirations to tell powerful and authentic stories, emphasizing gratitude and self-awareness as keys to navigating the artistic journey. So, grab your cup of tea and join us in this heartfelt discussion. Don't forget to follow us on Instagram at Tea with TJ Podcast, and stay tuned for more inspiring conversations! Support the show Join us in conversation on socials: Youtube Instagram Tik Tok Twitter Substack Threads

    49 min

  7. 10/23/2024

    Part II Lonnie's Journey to Self-Love and Polyamory

    What truly defines your self-worth, and how does it intertwine with confidence? Together with our insightful guest, Lonnie, we unpack these intricate concepts, sharing a transformative gem from his therapist that changed his perspective. While achievements might boost our confidence, self-worth is rooted in loving ourselves just as we are. Listen as we discuss how this understanding influences our ability to form deep, authentic relationships and the hurdles personal history and independence can present in building trust. Ever wondered about the complexities of polyamory and open relationships, especially through the lens of someone from a marginalized community? Lonnie brings his personal experience to the table, shedding light on the unique challenges and misunderstandings faced by polyamorous individuals. We delve into the emotional rollercoaster of dating in such a framework, the significance of self-love amidst rejection, and why having the right words to express emotions is crucial for personal growth and understanding. We also explore the fascinating dynamics of non-monogamous relationships, inspired by public figures like Shan Boodram. From public misconceptions to maintaining multiple partnerships, we emphasize the role of communication and consent. Lonnie shares his vision for an ideal polyamorous relationship where autonomy meets connection. Join us for an eye-opening conversation that highlights the joys, challenges, and freedoms of polyamory, providing insights for those curious about or practicing this relationship style. Support the show Join us in conversation on socials: Youtube Instagram Tik Tok Twitter Substack Threads

    50 min

  8. 10/16/2024

    The Power of Relationships in Shaping Our Lives With Lonnie Woods III

    Ever wonder how a change in scenery can profoundly impact one's mental health? Lonnie Woods III, a remarkable creative professional, joins us on "Tea With TJ" to share his journey from Baltimore to Los Angeles. As a first-generation college student, Lonnie talks about his passion for photography and his pursuit of a master's degree at NYU, blending art with education. He reflects on his cross-country moves, motivated by the search for balance and better mental well-being, revealing the underlying challenges of seasonal depression encountered during the pandemic in New York. Despite the allure of sunny California, Lonnie's heart continues to resonate with the East Coast's vibrant energy. Relationships are not just connections but pivotal elements that shape us, especially within the Black queer community. Together, we examine the multifaceted dynamics of love, friendship, and mentorship, sharing personal insights from his journey as a poet. The conversation highlights the courage it takes to write about relationships from a place of vulnerability and the unique experiences of people of color forming connections in predominantly white spaces. Explore how these interactions become a tapestry of support, empowerment, and personal growth, crucial for navigating identity and community. Authentic self-worth and self-love are the cornerstones of meaningful relationships. In our conversation, we unpack the importance of understanding one's true self and how this awareness shapes interactions in bustling metropolises like New York and Los Angeles. Through personal anecdotes, including a spontaneous connection on a New York train, we discuss the transformative power of confidence, self-awareness, and embracing one's values. Our dialogue underscores that self-worth shouldn't depend on external validation, inviting listeners to embark on a journey of embracing authenticity in every aspect of life. Support the show Join us in conversation on socials: Youtube Instagram Tik Tok Twitter Substack Threads

    50 min
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Trailer

5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Welcome to Tea with TJ! A Podcast on self-discovery where our love for tea, conversation, a deeper understanding of life, and self-improvement intersect. Life is messy and sometimes you just need a cup of tea!

Information

  • Creator
    TJ Bolden
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    38
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Tea With TJ
  • Show Website
    Tea With TJ