Spillin' Sweet Tea with Melanie Pagliaro

Celebrating Juneteenth and Spillin' Sweet Tea with Ray Whiting

What does Juneteenth mean to Charleston, West Virginia, and how can one person help bring an entire community together? This week on Spillin' Sweet Tea, Morgan Robinson sits down with community leader, advocate, storyteller, podcast host, and proud father Ray Whiting for a conversation about purpose, legacy, leadership, and the power of community. Ray shares the significance of Juneteenth and why the annual celebration continues to be an important opportunity for education, reflection, unity, and joy. With excitement building around the 2026 Juneteenth celebration in Charleston, he offers a preview of what attendees can expect and discusses the impact these events have on the community. The conversation also takes a personal turn as Ray reflects on one of his proudest accomplishments, watching his daughter graduate from college. He shares lessons learned through fatherhood and how family has shaped his perspective on leadership and service. From community building to personal growth, this episode is filled with inspiration, gratitude, and meaningful conversation. Pour yourself a glass of sweet tea and join us for this uplifting discussion with Ray Whiting.

Small Towns Shape America - Spillin' Sweet Tea with Adam Stollings

This week on Spillin' Sweet Tea, host Morgan Robinson sits down with Adam Stollings, Community Liaison with the USDA, to discuss the importance of rural community development and the unique strengths that make every small town special. From creating opportunities in rural America to celebrating the people and places that shape our communities, Adam shares his perspective on what it takes to help communities thrive. The conversation also explores the role faith plays in his life, the values that guide his work, and the importance of staying grounded while serving others. Grab a glass of sweet tea and join us for an inspiring conversation about community, leadership, service, and faith. ☕ About Spillin' Sweet Tea: Spillin' Sweet Tea is a weekly podcast featuring authentic conversations with leaders, entrepreneurs, artists, advocates, and changemakers who are making a difference in West Virginia and beyond. Be sure to like, subscribe, and share to help us continue telling the stories that matter.

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.