DLHS Hour 1 | Mr. Tendernism gets his own restaurant thanks to the help of Keith Lee

During What’s Trending, Jasmine Sanders spotlights the viral rise of Walter “Mr. Tendernism” Johnson as he breaks away from Destination Smokehouse and launches his own Tendernism brand after confirming he’s no longer affiliated with the restaurant that benefited from his online fame. His departure follows months of controversy, trademark disputes, and alleged exploitation, while support from food critic Keith Lee—who once attempted to gift him a $4,000 tip blocked by security—helped amplify the situation and rally fans behind him. With donations surging and new business ventures underway, Mr. Tendernism is now leveling up with food trucks, tours, and future restaurant partnerships. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.