Tess Talks 2.0

I’m finally back with a massive life update! From spilling tea with my besties in a Valley hot tub under a full moon to somehow talking my way into Galveston's 4th of July parade, things have been double hectic. I’m also diving into why my brain insists I lived on the beach in L.A. even though I didn't, how I handle online haters who try to slide into my DMs, and what really went down on my latest trips.~Follow me on social~ IG: https://www.instagram.com/tess1tess2/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tess1tess2

I’m back in California and getting hit with all the nostalgia! From the mountains to the wineries, I’m taking you along on my getaway trip to visit my powerhouse firefighter bestie Gigi. Plus, I tell you all about the embarrassing time I accidently sent a sexy picture to half of Corpus Christi. ~Follow me on social~ IG: https://www.instagram.com/tess1tess2/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tess1tess2

Houston is teeming right now, and I am absolutely living for the World Cup energy going on in the city right now! Plus, your girl made it on the new season of Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders on Netflix and I couldn't believe it. I'm also recapping my 10/10 dining experiences at Ojo de Agua and Numero28 and why I think Bunny and Jelly Roll's divorce announcement is giving major stage-managed vibes.~Follow me on social~ IG: https://www.instagram.com/tess1tess2/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tess1tess2

I have officially kicked off my self-care summer, though my nalga clearly didn't get the memo after an aggressive workout. This week, I am diving deep into my absolute obsession with the new season of Love Island AKA Clench Island, explaining why Houston is entirely superior to Dallas, and recapping a wild night out that included a FIFA event, an unexpected trip to a police station for air conditioning, and a late-night comedy show. Plus, I share a beautiful piece of Disney trivia that completely melted my cold heart.~Follow me on social~ IG: https://www.instagram.com/tess1tess2/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tess1tess2

I’m back, babies! Last week I was completely missing in action because I was in the trenches cosplaying as a mother to my two-year-old niece, Sophia. This week, I’m pretty sure I officially earned my superhero cape after stepping in last-minute to emcee a gala and casually rubbing elbows with the mayor. Back at home, I’m dealing with Travis constantly interrupting my flow from his dungeon, trying to understand why TikTok scammers are copying me when I’m literally unemployed, and learning how to actually listen to my body before I snap an ACL.~Follow me on social~ IG: https://www.instagram.com/tess1tess2/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tess1tess2

I’m sharing my latest obsession in this episode: breaking 100 on the golf course. Travis promised me a brand new bag and a fancy golf trip if I can pull it off, so you better believe I’m getting my cheap Academy clubs re-gripped and getting back on the course after this pod. Oh, and we need to talk about this Spice Girls lore I just learned about and a piece of advice for women to live longer. ~Follow me on social~ IG: https://www.instagram.com/tess1tess2/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tess1tess2

I’m back from Alaska and I have a confession: I don’t think I’m a cruise person! In this episode, I spill all the tea from my trip including all the excursions we got to do and Travis nearly being crowned the best voice on the ship.I also talk about emceeing an Avda luncheon and share some unfortunate news about one of my closest friends.~Follow me on social~ IG: https://www.instagram.com/tess1tess2/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tess1tess2

I may not have a full time job, but somehow I’m busier than ever! Between driving a badass Ford Bronco to San Antonio and starting the new I-10 Golf Classic, I’m learning that I might be varsity at everything else, but golf is still humbling me. I’m also sharing a story about my new golf mentor, Gary, and why I'm still supporting this Rockets team even though they hurt me.Check me out on Hello Houston: https://youtu.be/ZLsIOoXTJT0?t=2773~Follow me on social~ IG: https://www.instagram.com/tess1tess2/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tess1tess2

So much to get to today! From reuniting with my radio family at The Rod Ryan Show golf tournament, to my trip to San Antonio for the IFL game, and trying to register my house as an Airbnb without losing my mind over city fees. Plus, I’m sharing how I’m trying to monetize my dopamine—from TikTok trials to potentially bossing men around as a professional coach.Do  me a favor and be extra silly today!~Follow me on social~ IG: https://www.instagram.com/tess1tess2/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tess1tess2

My first podcast in two weeks and I've missed you! Join me as I talk about my time in New Mexico for new gig, relationship updates, and so much more.We are so back!~Follow me on social~ IG: https://www.instagram.com/tess1tess2/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tess1tess2

Buckle up, buttercups, because this episode is a raw one. I’m officially closing the chapter on my time at Houston Life. While it’s heartbreaking to leave my amazing team, I’m looking forward to what’s next. Plus, I'm reflecting on a powerful message I heard at church about being the ultimate role player and why I’m ready to squeeze every drop of juice out of this sweet life.~Follow me on social~ IG: https://www.instagram.com/tess1tess2/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tess1tess2

I’ve been consuming way more content than usual and we need to talk about it. I just watched a documentary that should have been called "The Secret Life of Douchebags," and honestly, my flabbers are gasted. Join me as I recap the weirdness of the manosphere, my genuine confusion over the "doll mom" community, and my weekend in Corpus Christi.It’s a packed episode recorded right from the comfort of my covers!~Follow me on social~ IG: https://www.instagram.com/tess1tess2/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tess1tess2

Welcome back, baby cakes! We're diving into the Houston rodeo drama involving Lina Hidalgo's "don't you know who I am?' energy that's giving me secondhand embarrassment. Plus, the time I lied to get a job and my wild bartending days. ~Follow me on social~ IG: https://www.instagram.com/tess1tess2/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tess1tess2

In this episode, I talk all about my mom's surpise visit, golfing with strangers who turned out to be Buzz listeners, and remembering my dad on the one-year anniversary of his passing. It’s a little bit of grief, a lot of self-care, and a whole bunch of impromptu honesty.~Follow me on social~ IG: https://www.instagram.com/tess1tess2/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tess1tess2

In this episode, I’m recapping a wild weekend from emceeing a goat milking competetion at Rodeo Houston, preparing for an interview with Willie and Korie Robertson of the Duck Dynasty family, and visitng an oyster farm in Palacios...all while my mom stopped by for a surpise visit! Life has been moving at light speed lately, so enjoy this rare Monday edition of the pod!~Follow me on social~ IG: https://www.instagram.com/tess1tess2/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tess1tess2

Life has been moving so fast lately that I can barely keep up with my own notes, so I’m just going to talk to you like you’re my home girls and boys.In this episode, I get into why everyone needs to get out of the professionals way and let them cook. I also talk about my time as a judge at the Gold Buckle Foodie Awards at Rodeo Houston and a crazy station tour that really had me thinking that parents should parent their kids. It’s a little bit of work, a little bit of fun, and a whole lot of me keeping it real while I wait for that big fat raise!~Follow me on social~ IG: https://www.instagram.com/tess1tess2/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tess1tess2

Coming to you live from my couch! February was a literal whirlwind of emceeing Rodeo Houston's Uncorked event, trying to figure out why everyone turned themselves into Lisa Frank AI art, and my taco therapy session. I was hopped on meds, but it's still a fun one!~Follow me on social~ IG: https://www.instagram.com/tess1tess2/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tess1tess2

In this episode I’m sharing the story of how I ended up as a Grand Marshal for a Mardi Gras Galveston float and how my almost two-year-old niece has officially chosen her favorite and it’s not me. Plus, we’re breaking down the Super Bowl: why the game felt like a snooze fest, but the halftime show absolutely saved the night.~Follow me on social~ IG: https://www.instagram.com/tess1tess2/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tess1tess2

Christmas in Utah usually means a winter wonderland, but this year? Not so much. Join me as I recap a holiday season that was short on snow but long on memories. I’m diving into the details of my brother’s New Year’s Eve engagement, the night Travis wanted me to be his grandma (I promise it makes sense), and our surreal experience taking batting practice at Daikin Park. Plus, I make my formal plea to the universe: I need to be on The Traitors. Alan Cumming, if you’re listening, I’m ready for the turret!~Follow me on social~ IG: https://www.instagram.com/tess1tess2/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tess1tess2

I sat down with Lily Jang, one of Houston’s most trusted voices first in television news and now in real estate. Lily opens up about her immigrant experience, her love of culture and travel, the importance of trust in both journalism and sales, and the full-circle moment of buying a home for her mother, an achievement she says means more than any title. Honest, grounded, and fun: this conversation is about more than real estate. It’s about knowing your values, adapting through change, and making smart moves when the noise gets loud.~Check out Lily Jang~IG: https://www.instagram.com/thelilyjang Website: https://lilyjangrealestate.com/ ~Follow me on social~ IG: https://www.instagram.com/tess1tess2/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tess1tess20:00 - Introducing Lily Jang10:00 - From KHOU to real estate16:53 - What 2025 looked liked for real estate and what to expect for 202619:18 - The “it” factor and building trust24:32 - Nightmare clients28:32 - Skincare routine31:45 - Lily’s travels36:36 - Lily’s spirituality40:14 - Reality TV real estate vs real life42:06 - Modern dating46:48 - Derrick Shore is the best50:25 - Drama in Paris

Houston’s comedy scene is having a moment — and comedian Chinedu Ogu is right in the middle of it.In this episode, we sit down with the up-and-coming Houston comic to talk about what it really takes to build a comedy career from the ground up. Chinedu opens up about finding his voice on stage, surviving bad sets, reading Houston crowds, and the grind that happens long before the spotlight hits.It’s honest, funny, and a behind-the-scenes look at a ride or die HOUSTON comedian.https://www.chineduogu.com/~Follow me on social~IG: https://www.instagram.com/tess1tess2/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tess1tess20:00 - Start and Chinedu’s day2:22 - Chinedu’s origin9:40 - Similarities to Tessa11:13 - Starting out after graduation17:00 - First viral hit24:33 - How people responded to Chinedu’s success35:30 - Chinedu’s mentors39:03 - Chinedu’s regrets40:37 - 2026 tour42:17 - Favorite Houston spots46:47 - J. Barrera Law ad47:15 - Chinedu’s advice to young comedians

It’s a cozy, chaotic catch-up episode. I’m sharing highlights from Thanksgiving in Corpus Christi, laughing through some embarrassing work moments, and talking through the random little things that make life funny. From a serious conversation being derailed by the Wienermobile, to trying a new Chinese spot and swapping stories along the way, this episode is equal parts heart, humor, and real life.~Follow me on social~IG: https://www.instagram.com/tess1tess2/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tess1tess20:00 - Start & Thanksgiving recap8:36 - Holiday fun14:40 - Golf Crest Country Club16:13 - Travis has a new gf17:36 - 44 farms19:01 - Wienermobile19:57 - Rockets hack24:49 - More golf26:18 - Hot Wheels monster truck27:00 - Michigan football coach27:54 - Restaurant recommendation29:57 - Texans30:49 - J. Barrera Law ad31:29 - Outro 

In this episode, I’m coming to you straight from my new downtown balcony with all the vibes and all the noise of Houston behind me. We’re talking everything from Texans game energy to my Tex Ren Fest adventures, plus the shows I’m currently obsessed with. I’m also giving you the rundown on Shuck Cancer, my roller derby deep-dive, and why the Nutcracker Market has officially taken my wallet hostage. It’s cozy, it’s chaotic, it’s Houston—just how I like it.~Follow me on social~IG: https://www.instagram.com/tess1tess2/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tess1tess20:00 - Start2:49 - Ren Fest3:56 - Texans5:37 - Nutcracker Market and Houston Zoo12:26 - Shuck Cancer event14:12 - Yellow Rose Roller Derby15:39 - J. Barrera Law16:46 - Losing my voice17:11 - Food recommendations19:51 - What I've been watching21:52 - CVS coupons23:13 - MG Hair Salon new location24:03 - The government is back open24:56 - Real Housewives and wrapping up

This episode was recorded in the middle of boxes, bubble wrap, and pure moving madness as I officially became a downtowner in the city of Houston.Even though "the H" is a place I’ve called home since 2019, I am experiencing it in a completely new way. In true “life is happening at full speed” fashion, I bounce between chatting about the move, the excitement of starting fresh, my love-hate relationship with packing, and a whole bunch of other wonderfully random thoughts that poured out of me. Was I a little manic? Maybe. Was I incredibly excited about life? Absolutely.Join me for an unfiltered, high-energy ride through transition, reinvention, and whatever else popped into my brain while I tried not to lose track of the tape dispenser.

Turning 40 felt like a milestone and there was no better place to celebrate than Costa Rica! In this podcast, I take you along on my birthday adventure through one of the most vibrant, awe-inspiring places on Earth (that had been on my bucket list for way too long.) From rainforest hikes and hidden waterfalls to beach sunrises, wild encounters, unforgettable meals, and the moments of reflection that come with hitting a new decade, this is the story of what happens when you step out of routine and into pura vida.Whether you’re here for travel inspo, a little escapism, or just a good story, join me as I relive the highs, the surprises, and the magic of turning 40 in paradise.

After the loss of my dad, I found myself navigating grief in all its messy, beautiful, unexpected forms. But along the way, something kept happening: small moments, uncanny coincidences, signs that felt like gentle nudges from him. Some people call them coincidences. I have learned to call them God winks, which by the way is a tremendous book series if you are into reading.In this podcast, I open up about my journey through loss, healing, and the surprising ways my dad still shows up in my life. This episode explores the quiet magic that appears when you’re paying attention.This is a space for anyone who’s lost someone they love, anyone who’s searching for meaning in the moments that don’t feel accidental, and anyone who believes that love never really leaves us. Join me as I share the signs, the stories, and the little reminders that our connections don’t end, they just change. 

In this first episode of Tess Talks 2.0, I'm answering the common questions- why I walked away from morning radio, what life was really like juggling radio and TV at the same time, and how it feels walking into year 40 of my life. I also catch you up on some of the amazing places I've traveled since making the leap. It's honest, funny, and a brand new chapter I hope you'll read with me! credits: Production &editing- Robert BarbosaMakeup- Cynthia Ramirez Hair- Manny GuerreroPhotography- Kensy Suazo