Artesha “Teash” Fernandez has turned her passion for conversation into a platform that uplifts and empowers. As the creator and host of Tea With Teash Podcast, she has built a space where artists, entrepreneurs, and entertainers can share their journeys and inspire others with their stories.
What began as a local project has grown into a stage for both hometown talent and nationally recognized voices. Now, as she approaches her two-year “Pod-Versary,” Fernandez is proving that with vision, consistency, and heart, it’s possible to create opportunities not just for yourself, but for an entire community.
What inspired you to start the Tea with Teash Podcast, and how has your vision for the show evolved?
What inspired me to start the Tea with Teash Podcast is that I was, and still am, Talkative, not afraid of Public Speaking, and it was really my destiny. I love meeting people, capturing stories, and being a big Motivator! My vision and show have developed because I’m more experienced now, I have risen above the “Newbie” mark to keep my show going, and I have had some amazing opportunities since I first started. Trial-and-error moments have shaped me. Brand-wise and personality-wise, you learn more about the entertainment business, what’s appealing to your audience, and how to execute a great Interview.
What do you enjoy most about connecting with local creatives and entertainers in Kansas City?
I love to see what’s going on in my city! When I meet new faces or reconnect with those I already know, I enjoy hearing about their businesses, products, and upcoming projects. It brings me joy to know that big Bosses are moving around throughout my Hometown.
Can you share a behind-the-scenes moment on the podcast that made you laugh or surprised you?
I remember preparing for my interview with Bella Blaq, a rapper featured on P-Valley on the Starz network. I was both nervous and excited, knowing this conversation could open new doors for my career and offer listeners a glimpse into the world of rising talent. The anticipation pushed me to meticulously research her work and craft thoughtful questions, hoping to create space for an authentic and memorable dialogue. I couldn’t get into my bag for anything, and I was actually really nervous, contrary to what may be shown on video. I made myself some Tea (which is a huge part of my warm-up regimen), spilled it, and tripped me out. Surprisingly, I am never that nervous, but on this date, I was because she is phenomenal, and after talking to her, we found out that we are so much alike.
Celebrating your two-year “Pod-Versary” is a big milestone—how has the journey shaped you personally and professionally?
Coming into my 2nd year of running my Podcast is absolutely everything! I started my show on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and iHeart Podcast back in November 2023, with no idea of what I was doing, who I would interview, what I would talk about, or who would listen.
I didn’t know how to record, if I needed equipment, or if I could just simply use my Phone. I didn’t feel scared, but I pushed forward and also registered for an LLC because I wanted to explore various options with my brand. And then, on January 25, 2024, I lost my mother, and I for sure thought it would kill me! I thought about quitting. I thought about everything a creator could think of in that season. My creative genius had gone to sleep, but one day, I recorded an audio episode about “Cursing God Out”. I played it back because it was so raw and so transparent that I internalized it in a big way. After deep prayer and a conversation with my mother in my dreams, I told myself that I needed to get up and keep going. Grief can reshape you in such a way that I felt reborn, I felt “New”. My passion for interviewing and engaging in the art of storytelling would not allow me to do anything other than continue doing what I loved and serve as a gateway for others to share their stories.
Which guest has challenged you the most or taught you something unexpected during an interview?
This is a tough question because there are actually two guests that come to mind. Hollywood Actress and Director Brely Evans taught me how to persevere through storms and do it with my eyes wide open! She taught me how to live and explore my creativity. Master Life Coach Christina Johnson (Former Wife of R&B Legend CeeLo Green) taught me how to redefine myself, how to really tap into my spirituality, and how to cleanse my Mind and body by fasting, meditating, and really homing in on my mental health. Both ladies are so inspiring. I truly love them!
What’s one misconception people have about running a podcast that you’ve learned isn’t true?
You don’t have to be better than the next, just be true to your craft, and your audience will mess with you heavy. There are high-ranking podcasts that are actually monetizing with millions of followers, and that’s their primary focus. My take is that I’m doing something unique with no messy antics to be a part of the analytics, and honestly, you don’t need all of that to thrive, contrary to what everybody says.
How do you approach interviews differently when speaking with nationally known figures versus local talent?
I am really careful not to embarrass them or jeopardize their brand and how they’re perceived. I ensure that I value their time and try to highlight them in a positive light, just as I do with any other guest. I still have fun with the interviews, but I keep it very mild when asking questions.
You’re joining panels like “Leading with Value”—what does that experience mean to you, and how does it connect to your mission?
It means a lot that I was asked, and it feels like I’m finally walking into rooms I belong in! Leading with value connects to my mission; that’s what I’m about. Being in the entertainment industry, many morals and values must be upheld so that you don’t become part of the statistics of not speaking and moving with purpose. Everything I do reflects how I was raised, what I was taught, and what I have always aspired to be. I am a leader with much value, worth a lot, and I am walking in my power.
Outside of podcasting, what inspires your creativity and fuels your passion for storytelling?
When I was a kid, I used to watch talk shows. Sally Jesse Raphael, Oprah, Geraldo, Ricki Lake, Montell, and Donahue were big to me. I would set up my microphone and host talk shows in my room after their episodes aired. I loved English, writing papers, and journaling as well as reading, growing up, and so I wanted to be a journalist, as well as pledge Delta, while attending university. However, I became a mom right after high school, so my plans had to wait. So, with that said, life fuels my passion for storytelling. I enjoy learning and engaging with people wherever I go, outside of recording. I am very much invested in what’s going on in the world, and when I travel, the scenery inspires me, as do the different people I meet. Keeps me hungry at all times!
As you look to the future, what is one project or collaboration that excites you most and why?
One collaboration I’m looking forward to is actually doing another interview with Brely Evans in September, but this time face-to-face! I am excited to feel her energy and really get to TEA with her LIVE!
Be’n Original
