Wish You Were Here

Hey there! Today we're hosting my very good friend Tajahn Wilson. Tajahn and I discuss why we wish people would ask how we feel more, our preference for deep & emotional conversations, and how we've been flourishing since nurturing our sensitive side. We relate over the hypercriticism we dealt with in childhood, being in competition with siblings for resources & attention, and reckoning our parent's expectations of us with our personal desires. We get to the bottom of why Tajahn is actually in college, and he opens up about his recovery since being hit by a car in 2020. This episode felt like drinking from cold water on a hot summer day: wayyy more refreshing than I expected it to be. I love Tajahn so much and I know you will too! Until next time, bye for now. --------------------- Hello! And welcome to Wish You Were Here: the show were we open up to each other and cherish human connection. Join me as I connect with the people I love & challenge them to see what's valuable within themselves. Maybe one day, you'll be the next guest. Subscribe & follow this show on whatever platform you're currently listening and share it with the person you love the most. And make sure you tell them Jai sent you! https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Hey there! Today I'm talking with my friend and mentor, Dorothy Colon. We talk about why we like flexing our personal authenticity, why we don't like being perceived, anxiety disorders, and why Dorothy's trying to stop being an overthinker. We also get into Dorothy's experience with pole dancing, how she's embraced the art form, and how we're finding safety & comfort in sexuality. This conversation is full of serendipity, and I'm thankful to have found someone I relate to so deeply. I know you'll enjoy! Until next time, bye for now. Find Dorothy here: IG: https://www.instagram.com/dapperdiane/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXQUJgO2zwrPqbDulgX7Keg -------------------- Hello! And welcome to Wish You Were Here: the show were we open up to each other and cherish human connection. Join me as I connect with the people I love & challenge them to see what's valuable within themselves. Maybe one day, you'll be the next guest. Subscribe & follow this show on whatever platform you're currently listening and share it with the person you love the most. And make sure you tell them Jai sent you! https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

I am delighted and so thrilled to share this next guest with you. Today I'm hosting my dear friend and SPARK baby, Te'Aja McCoy! We discuss the SPARK retreat & the benefits of deep emotional connection, the loneliness we experience in college (and relying on connection for our survival), the hoops she had to jump through to make college a reality for herself, and how Te'Aja got a full ride to 22 colleges and universities! Te'Aja talks about the inseparable bond she shares with her grandfather, what it's been like to be away from him since being in school, and the difficult reckoning that comes with losing loved ones. This episode stands out as a favorite for me because of Te'Aja's incredible storytelling, and it's definitely one you don't want to miss. I love y'all! And I'll be talking to you soon, bye for now. Find Te'Aja here: IG: https://www.instagram.com/brwngirlt/ Her poetry account: https://www.instagram.com/thegirlwhowritesshit/ -------------------- Hello! And welcome to Wish You Were Here: the show were we open up to each other and cherish human connection. Join me as I connect with the people I love & challenge them to see what's valuable within themselves. Maybe one day, you'll be the next guest. Subscribe & follow this show on whatever platform you're currently listening and share it with the person you love the most. And make sure you tell them Jai sent you! https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Hello everyone! Our next guest is my friend, Kayla Brown. Kayla and I discuss why we've been needing to relax more, why we keep waking up with a strange sense of impending doom, and how we tune into our bodies when we need to release stress. We hypothesize about the concept of reincarnation, death, and not understanding what happens to our essence once we pass away. I explore some lessons I've learned since losing my father, and we reminiscence about our loved one's that have passed away. I'm so appreciative of Kayla's vulnerability and willingness to ask some really big questions with me. Conversations like this are a great reminder to always be considering new perspectives, so I hope you take a lot from it! Until next week, bye for now. -------------------- Hello! And welcome to Wish You Were Here: the show were we open up to each other and cherish human connection. Join me as I connect with the people I love & challenge them to see what's valuable within themselves. Maybe one day, you'll be the next guest. Subscribe & follow this show on whatever platform you're currently listening and share it with the person you love the most. And make sure you tell them Jai sent you! https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Happy Tuesday folks. Today I am joined by my friend Benecia! We discuss her deep love of dogs (and how they help her stay calm), how she processes and copes with anxiety, what physical sensations that come with anxiety, and the stress of planning for the future. Benecia talks about the competitiveness of dance and what draws her to the sport, the distinction between dance as art and dance as competition, why we (the audience) should be looking to feel what a dancer is creating for us, and the importance of setting herself apart in dancing (by giving every move her own unique flair). We explore why Benecia goes to sleep and wakes up to television, her recent interest in Real Housewives of Potomac, and why we like to narrate television shows & movies as we watch them. She also gets vulnerable as she expresses gratitude for her mother, explores the grudges that exist within her family and why she's working on letting stuff go. I loved this conversation because of how much we relate to one another's emotional experiences, it truly was a pleasure having her in this space. Enjoy this episode! Bye for now. -------------------- Hello! And welcome to Wish You Were Here: the show were we open up to each other and cherish human connection. Join me as I connect with the people I love & challenge them to see what's valuable within themselves. Maybe one day, you'll be the next guest. Subscribe & follow this show on whatever platform you're currently listening and share it with the person you love the most. And make sure you tell them Jai sent you! https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast -------------------- We need to talk... Call the show now at ‪(984) 884-6361‬. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Hey y'all! Today I'm joined by my wonderful friend, Sieway Hunt. She and I discuss her experience being a Black cheerleader at UNC-Chapel Hill, why she decided to join Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. and what she hopes to accomplish within the organization, her close connection to her younger sister and mother, and understanding her value as a role model. Sieway explains why she wishes people asked her more questions, how she's mastering staying true to herself no matter the people she's around, and why quarantine allowed for more self-exploration and discovery. I also hear about the hard work required to succeed in the world of gymnastics (and how the sport has shifted for Black girls), and Sieway recaps her transition from gymnastics to cheerleading. Enjoy this conversation! I love y'all. Bye for now. ----------------------------------------------------- Hello! And welcome to Wish You Were Here: the show were we open up to each other and cherish human connection. Join me as I connect with the people I love & challenge them to see what's valuable within themselves. Maybe one day, you'll be the next guest. Subscribe & follow this show on whatever platform you're currently listening and share it with the person you love the most. And make sure you tell them Jai sent you! https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast ---------------------------------------------------- We need to talk... Call the show now at ‪(984) 884-6361‬. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Start your free trial of Audible books today using this link: www.audibletrial.com/jai. For every free trial created, the show makes $15. So please help us out! Our next guest is my friend (and resident fly girl✨) Maha Ballard! We discuss the impact Maha's family has on her life (and what it's like growing up with 7 siblings), her being exposed to many different ethnicities inside her household, why we can't decide if we want to have kids, and admitting that we do not, in fact, work best under pressure. She digs into the aftermath of her junior year of college and how she reoriented her life to be more meaningful, the imposter syndrome she's dealing with (and overcoming), and how much FOMO comes with being a college student. Maha explains why she began romanticizing the mundane moments of her life, why there is value in taking things slow, and why she takes care to be thoughtful with her words. We express our love of North Carolina and why we don't mind living here, some things in our life bringing us joy, and we take a few moments to express gratitude for the struggles and triumphs we've overcome in our lives. This conversation was simply fantastic and a perfect example of the connection I hope to develop through this show. I love Maha and I love YOU for listening. Hope you all enjoy. -------------------- Hello! And welcome to Wish You Were Here: the show were we open up to each other and cherish human connection. Join me as I connect with the people I love & challenge them to see what's valuable within themselves. Maybe one day, you'll be the next guest. Subscribe & follow this show on whatever platform you're currently listening and share it with the person you love the most. And make sure you tell them Jai sent you! https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast We need to talk... Call the show now at ‪(984) 884-6361‬. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Hiya everybody! Please help me welcome our next guest to the show, Diana Debnam. Join us as we discuss the unexpected benefits that come from getting older, learning to manage the expectations we have of ourselves and others, her family dynamic growing up in Fayetteville, her close relationship with her sister, and her family's connection to religion. Diana explains why she values honesty and authenticity in her relationships, why she feels drawn to the healthcare field, and how she dealt with her paranoia regarding catching COVID-19. She also shares the impact of growing up in a predominately white school (particularly during the 2020 presidential election), her plans for navigating post-grad life, and we gush briefly over our love of sports. I really enjoyed getting to know Diana and was happy to hear how much we relate to one another. Make sure you kick back, relax, and savor this laid-back episode of WYWH. I'll talk to you next week! ------------------------------ Hello! And welcome to Wish You Were Here: the show were we open up to each other and cherish human connection. Join me as I connect with the people I love & challenge them to see what's valuable within themselves. Maybe one day, you'll be the next guest. Subscribe & follow this show on whatever platform you're currently listening and share it with the person you love the most. And make sure you tell them Jai sent you! https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast We need to talk... Call the show now at ‪(984) 884-6361‬. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Happy Tuesday, everyone! And please join me as we welcome our next guest and friend of the show, Jarrah Faye. Jarrah & I discuss what it feels like being consistently let down by UNC, why Jarrah values being alone, us being sensitive individuals (and why sensitive children need parent's with patience), her childhood and early emotional experiences with her family, and how seeing her family struggle personally impacts her in adulthood. We open up about the pain of being misunderstood and the joy that results from embracing your fullest self. I ask Jarrah about her experience being dark-skinned and the microaggressions she encounters from others. Jarrah shares how she'd characterize her form of activism, why she prefers the term “truth-telling” over “activism”, how social media allowed her to explore her activism in an accessible way, and the benefits and drawbacks of cancel culture. Jarrah talks about the newly-revitalized NAACP chapter at UNC and its goals as an organization. This conversation proved to be an interesting one! Thank you Jarrah for this phenomenal display of vulnerability, and thank YOU for listening. I love you. Bye for now. --------------------------- Hello! And welcome to Wish You Were Here: the show were we open up to each other and cherish human connection. Join me as I connect with the people I love & challenge them to see what's valuable within themselves. Maybe one day, you'll be the next guest. Subscribe & follow this show on whatever platform you're currently listening and share it with the person you love the most. And make sure you tell them Jai sent you! https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast We need to talk... Call the show now at ‪(984) 884-6361‬. --------------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Hello and welcome back to season 2 of Wish You Were Here! I missed y'all like crazy and am excited to get things rolling again. Kicking us off is our next guest, Xavier Nonez! X is a Durham native and recent graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill (where he was an Executive Leadership Council Scholar & Harvey Beech Scholar). Join us as we discuss X's recent move to San Francisco, why he embraces adventure and learning new things, how he ended up at UNC (and his being a Duke fan prior to attending UNC), and his relationship to the business school and how he's grown as a businessman. We discuss X's pledging of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and his connections with his brothers, financial wellness and wealth-building in the Black community, and how he is constructing his own financial future. X describes learning to be more emotionally vulnerable with his loved ones, we both speculate on if/how we like to be perceived, and our efforts to always be authentic in our expression. Xavier has got major swag! I truly loved talking to him and I hope you all enjoy. Stay tuned for a new & eventful season of WYWH! I love y'all, bye for now. Find Xavier here: https://www.instagram.com/xnonez/ -------------------------------- Hello! And welcome to Wish You Were Here: the show were we open up to each other and cherish human connection. Join me as I connect with the people I love & challenge them to see what's valuable within themselves. Maybe one day, you'll be the next guest. Subscribe & follow this show on whatever platform you're currently listening and share it with the person you love the most. And make sure you tell them Jai sent you! https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast We need to talk... Call the show now at ‪(984) 884-6361‬. -------------------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Happy holidays! This is our final episode in season 1, and it's definitely one with a lot to teach you. Today I'm talking with my former middle school classmate and friend, Carmen Walker. Carmen & I discuss why she strives to finish what she starts, why it's hard for her to ask for help, the role her family plays as her primary support system, and how we deal with the external pressures from those closest to us. Carmen offers advice on incorporating planning into your everyday routine, prioritizing what makes you feel good, and we explore self-fulfillment as the primary theme in each of our lives. I have no doubt that you'll walk away with a few gems of your own. Thank YOU for tuning each to each episode this season, y'all's consistency is noticed and appreciated by me. I love you! Stay tuned for season 2 of Wish You Were Here to premiere on January 11. Bye for now. ---------------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast ---------------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Good morning and good evening everybody! We've got two more episodes to come out this year (including this one) before the end of season 1. Today I'm getting into three things I'm grateful for: 1) My experience with mental illness, 2) Cooking as a way to give love to my body, and 3) Being exactly the partner my beautiful baby, Victoria Shay, deserves. Stay tuned for our Song Of The Week, 'HOMEGIRL' by Leven Kali ft. Smino (!!) & Topaz Jones. Happy holidays y'all! Bye for now. I do not own the rights to this music. -------------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast -------------------------- We need to talk... Call the show now at ‪(984) 884-6361‬. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Good morning and good evening y'all! Today we have a very special guest (and one of the show's BIGGEST fans), Tú Uyên Nguyen! Tú Uyên and I discuss the ways we invest in our younger peers, what we have to offer in a mentor/mentee relationship, using intentionality and authenticity as a form of self care, our opinions on using Instagram to express our feelings, and aligning our use of time with our priorities. We hear about how Tú Uyên's childhood life compares to the lives of her parents, her family immigrating to the US from Vietnam (we speculate on the reasoning behind one's decision to emigrate and dealing with discrimination upon arrival), and why she loves cooking for her friends (Tú Uyên notes that in Vietnamese, you say 'I love you' through food). We both open up about our experiences with grief and how death changes our perceptions of the world. This conversation was so fun-loving and supportive, and I am honored to be sharing it with you all. I hope you enjoy! I love you, and bye for now. ------------------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast ------------------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

I've been feeling sad these last few days & I'm holding space for myself to feel that. Listen in for a few updates on how I've been doing, three things I'm feeling grateful for, as well as our first Song Of The Week! Love y'all! Happy Holidays. 0:00 - Intro 1:13 - Three Things I'm Grateful For (1:45 - Issa Rae & Insecure, 3:59 - Going for walks, 5:45 - End of fall semester) 8:37 - Outro 11:11 - Song Of The Week, ‘TANGERINE DREAM' by Snoh Aalegra Want your voice featured on the show? Call ‪(984) 884-6361‬ and leave us a message. I do not own the rights to this music. ------------------------------ Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Hey there! I'm very excited to share with you our next guest and my friend, Julie Kim. Julie joins me as we explore our love of writing (and shared experiences in two creative writing courses at UNC), the way she characterizes her personality (and why she considers herself a 'careful' person), why she loves to ask people questions about themselves, her childhood and life experiences growing up, and her relationship to spirituality. Julie and I compare our enneagram types and astrological signs. We open about our experiences with race in America and the unspoken truths that people of color navigate. Julie tells us why she embraces failure in her life, and I learn that she is a dancer! I hope you can relax and enjoy this chat, it truly was a pleasure. Talk soon. --------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast --------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Hey there! The best part of this show has been speaking with people who listen as well as they share, and our next guest is no different. Today we've got my good friend, Maxwell Morant. We discuss our love of The Midnight Gospel, Max's exploration of multiple faiths and forms of spirituality, why it's important to him to be seen as a good listener, using breath control and mindfulness to deal with overthinking, and we explore Max's pragmatism (and why he always considers the consequences and implications of his actions). Max opens up about the gratitude he has for his parents, and we recall our past episode with Ty Clayton and the connections he and Max share. We also talk about his membership in Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. and why he communicates and works so well with his brothers. I LOVED this conversation and I know you will too. I love you and I'll talk to you soon. *Sidenote: On December 4th, 2021 Maxwell & the men of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. will be celebrating 115 years of brotherhood and service. Please join me in wishing them a Happy Founders Day! ---------------------------------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast ---------------------------------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

**This episode has been edited from its original version to exclude sensitive materials per guest's request. Original release date 08/27/21 Helloooo there. Today we have one of my high school best friends, Dionne Williams. Dionne is such a kind, intelligent, & hilarious soul, and this interview demonstrates that perfectly. We discussed the COVID-19 pandemic and young people have been affected, our opinions on the COVID vaccine (and whether or not we have received it), Dionne's hair journey, and her experiences teaching and mentoring young children. We analyze the role truth & distrust play in our society and open up discussion on the COVID-19 vaccine. I remember you saying you could tell that Dionne would be a good friend to me -- I'm happy to let you know that you were right. Enjoy this one, I think you'll love it. I love you a lot and I wish you were here. Talk soon, and bye for now. ---------------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast ---------------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Hello there!!! I've never been more excited to share an episode than I am today. Our next guest is Janora McDuffie. She is an actress (with appearances on Grey's Anatomy, 24, This Is Us, & Criminal Minds), voiceover artist, host, and speaker. I first met Janora last year when she spoke with the UNC-Chapel Hill 2023 Cohort of NC Fellows; I left that conversation knowing two things for certain: a) Janora is one of the most AMAZING storytellers I've ever heard and b) she's truly embraced being a co-creator in her life. Join Janora and I as we discuss her childhood growing up in Durham, N.C., how she ended up at UNC as a Morehead-Cain Scholar (and her membership in Order of the Golden Fleece and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.), & her pandemic experience in California. We open up about feelings of unworthiness and how we show ourselves that we are enough just as we are. Janora gets real about what it's like being in an interracial marriage and what it means to be married to a police officer. She opens up about her connections to Robin Roberts & Lisa Nichols as we explore where Janora's true passions and talents lie. This episode is full of so much fun, laughter, and fascinating discovery -- you won't want to miss any of it. I love you! Thanks for listening & bye for now. Find Janora Here: https://www.instagram.com/jmcdeezie/ https://janoramcduffie.com ------------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

We need to talk...call or text ‪(984) 884-6361‬ and let me know: how you been feeling this month? --------------------------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast --------------------------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Hello there! Today I have the pleasure of speaking with my friend, Corinne Pickering. Cori & I discuss her life growing up with twin sister (and what it's been like to be away from her), her experiences at UNC and why the spring 2021 semester was so emotional for her, and why Cori values her friendships and connections so deeply. She & I gush over our love of podcasts, and I found out that Cori is a fan of the show! I really enjoyed this conversation and I know you will too. Bye for now. ----------------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast ----------------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Ayo!! Glad to be checking in again. Today I got to talk with the marvelous Maria Summers. We got into her childhood and our reviews of growing up in Greensboro, N.C., what people misunderstand about the first-generation college student experience, what it's really like to lose weight, how weight loss further complicated her relationship to her body, what she experienced studying abroad in South Korea, and her desire to become an influencer (along with her fashion Instagram page @genzelevated). I'm so grateful to know Maria! I love how her laugh and energy are so contagious. She's someone who has had a very clear and positive impact on the people around her. You'll definitely love Maria and our lovely conversation. I'll talk to you soon! Bye for now. ---------------------------------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast ---------------------------------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Hello there! Today I am speaking with my good friend and SPARK sister, Karis Price. We discussed her childhood and connection to her family, what it was like growing up Seventh-day Adventist, spending part of her life living in Kentucky, her relationship to her Blackness, and why we believe cancel culture is having a negative impact on our ability to learn/think critically. Karis also gives personalized shoutouts to her best friends and lets us know why they're so special to her. I was delighted to be apart of this conversation, and listening back has me even more excited to share it with you now. Karis has such amazing things to say, I love her and hope to have her back soon! Enjoy this one, I'll talk to you soon. Bye for now. -------------------------------------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast -------------------------------------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Yo! How you feeling today?I am feeling very excited because I've got another a-maz-ing guest for you to hear from. I spoke with my friend Binta Touray about her aesthetic and style, how she uses visualization to bring her creative ideas to life, what drew her to photography (and how hard she works to make her clients comfortable in front of the camera), and her relationship to spirituality and the unknown. Binta happens to be Victoria's best friend and I couldn't be happier about that — Binta has a way of making those she cares about feel truly seen and uplifted. I hope she and I can continue to develop this genuine connection, and I hope you enjoy this episode. I love you! Bye for now. --------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast --------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Hello & happy Sunday! Today I got to have the most PHENOMENAL conversation with the one and only, Emma Amaglo. We discussed how Emma characterizes her life (and why she says it is an honor to be her), why we get frustrated when people make assumptions, what her childhood was like, how immigrating to America influenced the relationship she has with herself & her parents (and how the experience made her more accepting of others), and the complex challenges her parents & family have navigated together. What I love most about our conversation is our willingness to think outside the box. Emma envisions a life for herself that is not limited by what she cannot see. It is clear that she has made the very best of the life that was given to her. I love Emma, I love you, and I hope this conversation inspires us to feel even more love for each other. I'll be talking to you soon, bye for now. --------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast --------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Hello there!! Our next guest also comes highly-requested and I'm sooo thrilled to share it with you. Today I talk with my friend Jordan Johnson about her recent experiences buying her own car and moving into an apartment, what's she learned being financially independent, where she finds creative inspiration when decorating her space, and what it's really like successfully running her own nail business Rep Yo' Set. We get pretty vulnerable as we discuss our issues with body image and not having a healthy relationship to our physical appearance, and I'm so grateful that I got to both see and feel seen by Jordan. Enjoy this one, I'll be thinking of you while you listen. Bye for now. -------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast -------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Hello and Happy Thursday! Today we have one of our most highly requested guests, Peyton Watson. He and I discuss his childhood experiences (and the impact his parents and brother have had on him), what Peyton thinks the purpose of life is, why attending UNC was one of the most important decisions of his life, where his interest in psychology comes from, and how he likes to use his free time. I've known Peyton since my first year of high school, he's got great style and major swag. Peyton is actually the reason I first decided to wave up my hair, so I thank him for influencing my swagger as well. I hope you enjoy this episode and absorb the kindness and wisdom that Peyton spits out. I love you. Bye for now. -------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast -------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

*The audio throughout this out time gets spotty, but I've edited out as much as I can. Please bear with! Hello there! I'm so excited that I got to speak with my former counselor and friend, Sarah-Grayce Coats. We discussed the meaning behind her many tattoos, how she experienced Governor's School as both a student and counselor, what it was like being married and divorced by 22 years old, why she became a teacher (and the relationship dynamics between different teachers), and some of the things she wants people to know about her plants. I (embarrassingly) admit that SG helped kickstart my gay awakening when I was 17 years old, and we take some time to briefly explore our journeys self-expression/how we want to be perceived. I hope you enjoy this episode! As a sidenote: we'll be transitioning from a new episode on Sundays and Wednesdays to two new episodes weekly. The days will be random (for time and scheduling purposes), but you will still get a double dose of WYWH each week. I love you! Wishing you were here with me. Bye for now. ------------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast ------------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Hi there! We've been having some incredible guests, can you believe it?? Today is no different. I had the opportunity to speak with my friend and former classmate, Karly Smith. We discussed her childhood and move to Washington D.C., the deaths of Breonna Taylor & Ahmaud Arbery (and how they made us both fearful to do simple things like walk outside), grief created by the COVID-19 pandemic and how we've handled it, and plans Karly has for her future in the post-grad world. We also get into spirituality and how our race & gender intersect with our spiritual practices. This was such a lovely conversation, I hope you get some time today to relax and enjoy it. I love you and I wish you were here. Bye for now. ------------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast ------------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Hello, hello, hello! This conversation was much shorter than I'd like [because of some external constraints], but I hope to have our guest back on with us so we can dive even deeper. Today I spoke with my good friend, Sherrod Crum! I have such a deep admiration for Sherrod as an executor and hard worker. We discussed the projects he's started from the ground up, the greatest challenges he's ever faced, why he is so thankful for his family and support system, and how Sherrod characterizes his own personality. I know you'll really appreciate peeking into such a complex and incredible life story, I definitely did. In the meantime, I'm sending you so much love. Not a day passes that I don't wish you were here. Talk soon and bye for now. ----------------------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast ----------------------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Hi there! Today I have the honor of speaking with my wonderful & warm friend, Kelsey McDowell! This conversation veered into a therapy session for us both as we explored our emotional expression, the ways we accept (and don't accept) support in our lives, what it's been like transitioning into adulthood, and whether or not attending UNC was the best decision for us. This conversation was incredibly special, and I have a feeling you'll get that same warm feeling I know Kelsey so well for. I hope that you join Kelsey and I at Kelsey's 2nd Annual Black Jeopardy Fundraiser as we raise money for Wonder Connection, a non-profit organization based in UNC Pediatric Hospital. Come out on Sunday, October 31st at 4:00 and donate to show support. Any amount is welcome! Donations can be made at: bit.ly/wonderfundraiser. RSVP Here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/kelseys-2nd-annual-black-jeopardy-fundraiser-tickets-187354140277 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Hey there. It didn't feel right releasing a new episode right now. Sometimes there are more pressing things...and my immediate mission is to save a life. Hope you guys enjoy this one, please share it with anyone you feel like needs to hear the message. I love you and I mean that. -Jai -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DIRECT TRANSCRIPT: This is a message to every student & community member that lives on the UNC-Chapel Hill campus; to every parent of a student that lives on the UNC-Chapel Hill campus; to every person who is directly or indirectly affected by the loss of life in our community: Somewhere along the line, you were failed. You were overlooked or underestimated or turned away when you most needed help. I can neither absolve nor blame any university for the culture and mental toxicity that swims through our campus. But I must sound an alarm. There are human beings...babies...people who touched more lives than we could ever count...people who are willing to end their life instead of continue on with the one they currently are in. I'm not interested in asking a university to show that they care about the lives they've been entrusted with. I mean, I'm no expert, but I feel like any number of deaths at any point on a college campus will rock a community to its core. It should rock us, right? All I am qualified and am interested in saying to you is this: I am listening to you. I want to hear about all of this pain you're carrying inside of yourself. This pain that is capable of moving you over ledges and out of our lives. And there are other people who want to hear you too! I know it because I have experienced it personally. I've tangoed with mortality a time or two, and each time I have learned that there are people who really want my energy around. What do you need? How is all of this making you feel? I understand the assumption that the authorities we are told to trust have essentially disregarded our very life and value. That's what it looks like from the outside. But you know what? Fuck 'em. We don't have time to try and understand this embarrassing display of leadership right now. There are literally lives on the line right now. Do you care about saving a life? Do you need your life saved? I don't have all the answers for you, I cannot prevent you from feeling these terrible feelings. But I can tell you right now, I see you and I understand that none of this has been easy. I see your discomfort, and I commend your hard work. I don't have all the answers for you, I cannot prevent you from feeling these terrible feelings. But I can tell you right now, I see you and I understand that none of this has been easy. I see your discomfort, and I commend your hard work. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Happy Sunday! Today I have the pleasure of speaking with my friend of almost ten years, Michaiah Ruff! You knew Michaiah very well and loved her so deeply, she was such a wonderful piece of my adolescence. We discussed her connection to South Carolina, some of the challenges she's currently confronting in life, and the different ways that people in her life perceive her. She told me something she wished people would ask her more is "How are you doing?", so I look to give her the space to fully process some emotions without judgement. I loved this conversation so much, it was a great reminder of how important connection is throughout our lives. I know you'll enjoy this one, I've been thinking about you so much these days. I love you, and I wish you were here. Bye for now. -------------------------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast -------------------------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

My guest today is a breath of fresh air. I spoke with Meera Butalia, my good friend and kindred spirit. We discussed our core value of connection and why it adds so much value to our lives, her experiences with WWOOF-ing (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms), the amazingly stupendous opportunity that was NC Governor's School, and how she's starting to slow down more in her life. I must warn you, there are lots of disruptions and tangents in this conversation. But that's the nature of our relationship -- free-flowing, calm, and ready to accept whatever is coming next. I created this show to have conversations just like ours today.  I remember you really liked Meera when you met her, and I know you'll love hearing this conversation. I love you, and I wish you were here. Bye for now.  -------------------------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day, you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast -------------------------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

This episode is the perfect way to start your week (and #23 is always

Hello there! Today I have the honor of speaking with my friend, Tracy Ridley. We discuss his childhood and connection to Germany, toxic masculinity in the Black and LGBTQ+ communities, his part in starting the LGBTQ+ Visibility & Encouragement Committee for @unc_bsm, and some of the things he is wanting his life. I thoroughly enjoyed this discussion and am grateful to have had such an interesting person to talk to. I hope you enjoy! I love you and I wish you were here. Bye for now. ------------------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast ------------------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Hello, hello, hello!! Today we got to talk with my good friend, Mya Parks! Our conversation was so entertaining. We discussed her experiences growing up, how she navigates love and relationships, her struggles with comparison, and why therapy has been such a life-changing force in her life. I was intrigued by her stories from the several mission trips she has been apart of, it was very clear that Mya values extending her time and blessings to those that need it most. I remember when Teddy was telling me just how amazing of a friend Mya is -- I see exactly what she was talking about. I know you'll enjoy this episode like I did. I wish you were, and I love you. Bye for now. ------------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast ------------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Life has been so busy lately, and having these conversations to lean into has been so grounding and affirming. To be able to create something addressed to you, for you, is my greatest privilege. Today, we have my dear friend Ashlyn Tafirenyika. We discussed our experiences with body image, self esteem, & fat-phobia, grieving the loss of a close loved one at a young age, how poverty traumatizes the minds of kids & adults, and some healthy practices Ashlyn incorporates into her financial life. I am inspired by Ashlyn's determination to make quality education equitable and accessible for all, especially her commitment to empowering kids and restoring their agency to choose their own professional path. This conversation was so healing, just like every conversation I have with Ashlyn is. You used to tell me that you knew when someone had an 'anointed soul'. Ashlyn's soul has been touched directly by God, and she has been selected as someone who will bring positive change to her community. I hope you enjoy this episode. I love you and I wish you were here. Bye for now. -------------------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast -------------------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Greear Webb is someone people can't resist— plain and simple. Today I had the honor of talking with him about why he is always smiling, his experience being biracial (and how that identity has shaped his life), his entry into activism and the creation of NC Town Hall, how he has been challenged by the pandemic, and the ways he is redefining flexibility and balance. Since the moment I met him, I knew that Greear is a STAR who will change the world in our lifetime. I'm grateful for his openness and vulnerability, and I've been so excited to share this special episode. I hope you enjoy. I love you and I wish you were here with me. Until next week, bye for now. ------------------------------------------------ Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast ------------------------------------------------ Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Hello, hello, hello! Today we have a conversation with the always wonderful, La-Ontra Bacon. We discussed her childhood and what makes her story so unique, our time spent together at the Governor's School of North Carolina (West is Best!!), La-Ontra's close experiences with colorism and how she has tackled them, and the many ways she had to advocate for herself when others wouldn't. I loved hearing her perspective on reality television and why she believes there are many benefits in the genre -- maybe one day we will see her hosting a reunion special! It was truly a pleasure getting to talk with La-Ontra, we've been great friends since the first day we met and I am honored to help her share her story. I hope you enjoy!! Really wishing you were here. I love you and, until next time, bye for now. ----------------------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast ----------------------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Hey there, I'm so happy to finally be able to share this one with you! Our next guest is my oldest sister and best friend, Deja Neville. We discussed her journey to becoming a teacher during a pandemic (and how COVID impacted the learning experience for herself and her students), her new life as a mother, the many ways she sees your personality in who Carter is becoming, and the hopes she has for her future. We had a very vulnerable moment where we opened up about our experiences with poor self esteem and our struggles to see ourselves as beautiful. It's been really hard without you, so I'm grateful that I still have Deja and the rest of our family to lean on. Thank you for being the most incredible dad to us. We wish you were here to have this conversation with us. We love you so much, Daddy. Bye for now. -------------------------------------------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast -------------------------------------------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

I must say, I think this is the most excited I've been to share an episode with you. I had the opportunity to interview my former teacher and friend, Nikèl Bussolati. We discussed the dynamics of her childhood and family, her experience at Furman University (and the beginning of her path towards atheism), our opinions on the role religion plays in our society, why Nikèl decided to pursue teaching, the impact finding love has had on our lives, and what she's wanting next for her professional and personal life. This is exactly the type of conversation you and I would have all the time -- enriching, insightful, and full of compassion. I hope it reaches you like it did me. I love you and I wish you here. Bye for now. -------------------------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast -------------------------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Happy Tuesday! Today we have my wonderful friend and fellow Aquarian, Jorren Biggs. We discussed his love of fashion and art, his attention to aesthetics, how he became involved with social justice work, the many ways he characterizes his sense of humor, and why the year 2019 was the most pivotal moment of his life. We also open up and connect over what it feels like to lose a parent at a young age, and how we see our parents show up in the people we are. I'm so thankful to Jorren for embracing vulnerability and trusting me with his stories. I can't wait for you to listen. I love you so much, bye for now. ------------------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast ------------------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

You know my next guest very well. I'm so grateful you got the opportunity to meet her and that you loved her as I much as I do. Today I am speaking with girlfriend and biggest inspiration, Victoria Bryant. Together we discuss why she feels like a walking dichotomy, the importance of definition and identity in her life, her experiences with generalized anxiety disorder (G.A.D), and why it's difficult for her to take pictures of herself. We also discussed the night she and I met (which she notes was the luckiest moment of her life). To put it simply, Victoria is the most brilliant woman I know. I'm blessed to be able to see her gorgeous face each day, as well as have a partner who is a master conversationalist like me ;). I know you'll enjoy this episode and get a few laughs from it. Thank you for showing me how to love a partner and for giving me the courage to go after Victoria in the first place. I love you a lot and I wish you were here to laugh and cry with us. Bye for now. --------------------------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast --------------------------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Today we have one of my favorite people in the world on the show, Ty Clayton!! We talked about him being a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., his deep and loving connection to his family, his experiences at UNC, and his journey to becoming a real estate agent. We even got into a lot of different conspiracy theories and why Ty thinks life is "a hell of a concept". Ty dropped a lot of gems during this interview and I'm so proud of all he's accomplished, I KNOW you'll really enjoy this episode. I wish you were with me, I'm thinking of you all the time. I love you. Bye for now. -Jai ---------------------------------------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast ---------------------------------------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Helloooo there!! I am SO excited for the interview we have today. Jayna Ellis is one of my very best friends, and she inspires me so much every day. I'm so impressed with how she has steered her life in the face of many obstacles. We discussed her early childhood, her desire for simplicity in a complicated world, her experience losing her home in Hurricane Florence, what she has learned about relationships (particularly her best-friendship with my baby, Victoria Shay), and how we both deeply crave stability. Jayna and I both have rejection wounds that developed in our childhoods that we are still overcoming, but our relationship has helped me to process those feelings and find out what real validation and love should feel like. I truly love Jayna with all of my heart, I will continue to work at our relationship so she is in my life forever. I know you'll enjoy this episode, I wish you would've gotten to meet her before you had to go. Anyways, I always wish you were here. I love you, bye for now. ------------------------------ Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast ------------------------------ Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Hi there, and happy Sunday! Today is arguably my favorite episode so far, and it's with the one and only Julia Clark. We discussed the impact of growing up in predominantly-white spaces (and how traumatizing that can be), her spiritual and emotional connections to Brazil, the need for critical thinking in people's lives, and how people constantly misunderstand her passion and anger. I truly loved this conversation because Julia is still a friend I am getting to know, and I feel honored to help her tell her story in her own words. You will definitely connect with her on a personal and emotional level. I hope you enjoy this episode. I wish you were here, but I'm grateful to know you're listening. I love you. -------------------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast -------------------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Whew, there's been so many great guests and conversations already! I've been having a blast. I'm so thankful that I can talk to you again in this way. Today, I interviewed my friend, the ultimate cutie, Damion Williams. We talked about strength workouts and how we want our bodies to look, his journey to embracing his fullest self (and how he worked through his desire for external validation), and when & how he came out as gay. Damion has our first mid-episode epiphany and realizes that he might actually find joy in writing & storytelling -- I hope he writes those stories that exist within him. You loved Damion so much, and you'll love our conversation. I love you, and thank you for listening. I wish you were here. Bye for now. ------------------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast ------------------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Episode #8 on 8/8, can you believe it?? Today we have my friend and classmate, Rachel Donnan. Rachel & I discussed the impact of the pandemic on our mental health, our opinions on women in film (f*ck the patriarchy!!), and whether or not cancel culture is truly effective. It was refreshing to get the perspective of another young person in this chaotic world, and I loved how much passion and self-awareness Rachel spoke with. I know you'll love this. I'll talk to you soon, I really wish you were here. I love you. ---------------------------------------------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast --------------------------------------------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Happy Tuesday! Today I'm interviewing my good friend Ewan Foster and we had quite the conversation. We discussed our fear that people think we are dumb, porn and why people watch it, and our journeys to embracing our innermost selves. Ewan opened up to me so easily and we had such a riveting conversation, I promise this is one you DON'T want to miss. Anyways, I really wish you were here to talk about it with me. I love you. ----------------------------------------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast ---------------------------------------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

Hey there, I really hope you enjoyed those first few episodes. Today we have my wonderfully wise friend, Taliajah 'Teddy' Vann. We discussed her love of words, her knack for poetry, and what love means to us. Teddy truly blew me away with how intelligent and committed to herself she is, I consider her one of my wordsmithing heroes. I hope you like it, I really wish you were here. I love you. -------------------------------------------------------------------- Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast/ Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message

To: Demone Neville From: Jai Hello Daddy! Oh, you are going to be so excited when you hear this one. Today I am interviewing one of our favorite people in this world, Kelvin Thomas. We discussed our family, his connection to you, Papa Bay, and Mama Peaches, and the plans we have for our futures. You will be delighted to hear what a positive impact you've had on Kelvin and I, you truly were such a major influence in us achieving our goals. I'm sending you all my love. I really wish you were. Anyways, bye for now. ------------------------------------------------------ Hey there, it's Jai! I've been waiting for you to join me. Welcome to Wish You Were Here, the podcast where we open to each other and cherish human connection. What if I asked, what is it like to be you? Do you know what you'd say? The guests you'll here from are the people that I most love and adore, and together we explore that very question. Maybe one day you will be next. Now, it's time to dig a little deeper. https://www.instagram.com/wishyouwereherepodcast/ ----------------------------------------------------- Music from Free To Use Music Track: Kicktracks - Living For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84wNWdDZvls --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wishyouwerehere/message