Building Beauty and Community with Maria Belcher

Appalachian Queen - Spillin' Sweet Tea with Ted Brightwell

For more than five decades, Ted Brightwell has been entertaining audiences, breaking barriers, and helping shape LGBTQ+ visibility in Appalachia. In this special Pride Month episode of Spillin’ Sweet Tea, Morgan sits down with the legendary female impersonator known to many as the “Appalachian Queen” to reflect on 52 years of drag, the evolution of Pride in West Virginia, and the journey from performing in the 1970s to becoming one of the state’s most recognizable LGBTQ+ entertainers and advocates. Ted shares stories from the stage, memories of Charleston’s early LGBTQ+ community, the progress that has been made, and the work that still lies ahead. The conversation also explores identity, resilience, community, and the power of being unapologetically yourself. As West Virginia celebrates Pride Month and the 30th Annual Pride Parade & Festival, Ted’s message remains as powerful as ever: Be vigilant. Be seen. Be heard. ☕ Pull up a chair, grab a cup of tea, and join us for a heartfelt, entertaining, and inspiring conversation with one of Appalachia’s true icons.

Taking Risks, Owning a Business, and Doing it Scared! Spillin' Sweet Tea with Ava Reed

This week on Spillin’ Sweet Tea, we’re sitting down with Ava Reed, owner of Elizabeth Lee, to talk about taking risks, chasing dreams, and opening the doors to something new. Ava shares the story behind building Elizabeth Lee from an online store into a brand-new storefront opening Saturday, June 6. From the inspiration behind the brand to the excitement and challenges of growing a business, this episode is full of honest conversation, encouragement, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to bring a vision to life. We also dive into the moments that shaped her journey, the people who inspire her, and what she hopes customers experience when they walk through the doors of Elizabeth Lee for the very first time. If you love supporting small businesses, hearing inspiring stories, and spending time with people who are building something meaningful in their communities, this episode is for you. ✨ Don’t forget to like, comment, subscribe, and pass the cup to someone who loves a good story and a little sweet tea.

Taking Risks and Embracing Opportunity Spillin' Sweet Tea with Jessica Martin

What happens when confidence, creativity, and a willingness to take a chance all come together? This week on Spillin' Sweet Tea, we sit down with influencer and content creator Jessica Martin for a conversation full of energy, inspiration, and real talk about embracing opportunity even when it feels a little scary. From her experiences building her platform and stepping outside of her comfort zone, Jessica shares how taking risks helped shape her journey and open unexpected doors. We talk about confidence, social media, personal growth, chasing opportunities, and learning to trust yourself along the way. Whether you’re thinking about making a big move, trying something new, or simply needing a reminder to believe in yourself, this episode is packed with encouragement, laughter, and plenty of sweet tea-worthy moments. In this episode: ✨ Jessica’s journey ✨ Taking risks and embracing new opportunities ✨ Building confidence and authenticity online ✨ Lessons learned through personal growth ✨ Encouragement for anyone chasing their next step Be sure to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more conversations highlighting incredible people, inspiring stories, and positive moments from across our communities.

Spillin’ Sweet Tea with Sergio Rodriguez | Culture, Courage & Calling Two Places Home

In this episode of Spillin’ Sweet Tea, Morgan sits down with Sergio Rodriguez—her Aquarius birthday twin—for a conversation full of heart, perspective, and powerful storytelling. From his journey from Nicaragua to West Virginia, Sergio shares what it means to carry your culture with you, build a life in a new place, and stay deeply connected to where you come from. This episode dives into identity, resilience, and the pride of calling two places home. You’ll hear about: ✨ Sergio’s love for his home country of Nicaragua ✨ The experiences that shaped his journey ✨ What it means to build community and belonging ✨ Reflections on culture, opportunity, and perspective This is one of those conversations that stays with you—honest, meaningful, and full of insight. ☕ Grab your coffee and join us.

Spillin' Sweet Tea with Melanie Pagliaro

What does it really mean to show up for your community—and do it boldly? This week on Spillin’ Sweet Tea, we sit down with Melanie Pagliaro—a passionate community ambassador, City Council candidate, and now… Dancing with the Stars debut performer. 💃 Melanie shares the heart behind her commitment to Charleston, what inspired her to step into the political arena, and how she’s balancing advocacy, leadership, and a little bit of sparkle on the dance floor. From real talk about public service to the courage it takes to put yourself out there in new ways, this episode is full of energy, insight, and a few laughs along the way. ✨ In this episode: • What it means to be a true community ambassador • Why she’s running for City Council—and what she hopes to change • Behind-the-scenes of her Dancing with the Stars debut • Lessons in confidence, leadership, and showing up Whether you’re into local leadership, personal growth, or just love a good behind-the-scenes story, this one’s for you. 🎧 Watch now and don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that matter—with a little sweet tea on the side.