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PODCAST · education

The Real Us

Welcome to 'The Real Us' - where authenticity meets impact. Hosted by Benji DeSomer and Alyssa Joy Chambers, this weekly podcast tears down the walls of pretense to bring you raw, unfiltered conversations that matter. Every Wednesday, we create a safe space for sharing transformative stories from underserved communities, entrepreneurs, and change-makers who are rewriting their narratives.From struggles to triumphs, mental health to business growth, we dive deep into the stories that often go untold. No filters, no scripts – just real people sharing real experiences that inspire, educate, and connect. Whether you're seeking inspiration, looking for authentic connections, or simply want to hear stories that reflect the true diversity of human experience, 'The Real Us' is your weekly destination for unfiltered, safe, and true conversations.Join us every Wednesday as we amplify voices that deserve to be heard and build a community where authenticity is celebrated. B

  1. 18

    The Art of Living; We are ARTISTS!

    Welcome to Season 2!Join us as we talk about being artists, and what that means! Todays Affirmation is: CXreating art is not optional- It is Oxygen.Remember: A society that represses creativity isn't peaceful, it is control. What is your favorite way to express [email protected]

  2. 17

    Big, Beautiful, and Brutal

    🎙️ Episode 21 – Big, Beautiful, and BrutalFinal Episode of Season 1 of The Real Us Podcast!Affirmation: In a hundred years, it will not matter... — so SPEAK THE F*CK UP today. 'We made it to the finale, babes — and we’re not going out quiet. In this season-ending mic drop, we’re unpacking what’s been heavy, what’s been hidden, and what absolutely needs to be hollered from every rooftop: 🔥 Talking Points:🤖 LGBTQ+ + AI – Why some of us are opting out of content that doesn’t see us. (And why that matters.)🌪️ Texas Disasters – Climate chaos made worse by greed, negligence, and straight-up avoidable mistakes.💩 OBBBA – The Oh-So-Big-Beautiful Bill that’s actually utter BULLSH*T. What they’re really trying to pass off as progress.🛂 Immigration + Knowing Your Rights – What every human being deserves to understand, share, and defend.Just The Tip: Speak the FUCK UP, babes. Closed mouths don’t shift systems. Let your voice crack the silence.📣 We want to hear from YOU:👉 How are you handling things?👉 What support do you need?📧 Email us: [email protected]📝 Comment below. We are your people. 💜📞 Numbers You Can Use:📍 Utah House of Representatives: (801) 538-1029📍 Utah State Senate: (801) 538-1029📍 US Senators (Switchboard): (202) 224-3121🧭 Immigration Rights Resources:Immigrant Legal Resource Center: https://www.ilrc.orgNational Immigration Law Center: https://www.nilc.orgRAICES Texas (legal support + advocacy): https://www.raicestexas.orgUnited We Dream (largest immigrant youth network): https://www.unitedwedream.orgACLU Immigration Know Your Rights: https://www.aclu.org/know-your-rights/immigrants-rightsSources & Research:The Verge, Wired, and Bloomberg on AI & algorithmic bias.Texas Tribune on infrastructure and environmental justice.AP News & The Hill for the latest on the immigration bill (OBBBA).NILC + RAICES for immigrant protections and legal realities.Final Note of the Season:To our listeners, our fighters, our dreamers — THANK YOU. You made this season what it is: bold, raw, real.Season 2 will be bigger. Louder. Even more US.Until then — protect your peace, speak your truth, and always lead with love and rage.🌈🔥✊ #TheRealUs

  3. 16

    Truth or Lies

    🎙️ Episode Title: Truths or Lies✨ Affirmation: I am curious, grounded, and open to truth—no matter how wild it is.🌀 Description: Welcome to the rabbit hole, darling. In this episode, we’re strapping on our tinfoil hats and our truth goggles. From secret societies pulling hidden strings to everyday fibs we tell ourselves just to get through the week, we’re exploring what’s real, what’s rumor, and what’s a delicious, mind-bending blend of both. Why do we crave certainty so badly? What happens when the stories we cling to start to unravel? Let’s find out together.💡 Just the Tip: Questioning isn’t rebellion—it’s responsibility.✨ Join the conversation: Comment your favorite theory—no judgment here. Whether it’s a conspiracy that makes you side-eye the toaster or a personal truth that flipped your world upside down, we want to hear it.🔍 Stay curious. Stay grounded. And remember: sometimes the wildest possibilities hold the most unexpected insights.

  4. 15

    Holy and Heated

    🎙️ The Real Us – Episode 19 (Season 1)Title: Holy and HeatedSegment: The Real Us: After DarkTheme: ForbiddenAffirmation:I allow desire to flow through me as a source of power and creativity.🔥 Smut Levels: Tame to Spicy💋 Just the Tip:You are not too much.You are the medicine.You are the fire they tried to tame—And now… you remember.In this sultry After Dark edition, we’re diving into the sacred and scandalous. We’re talking all things Forbidden—from fantasies tucked deep in the shadows to the passions we’ve been taught to shame. Whether it’s whispered secrets, hidden touches, or holy cravings wrapped in heat, this episode is a love letter to your wild, worthy desires.✨ Comment below: What’s your favorite forbidden taboo?⚠️ Trigger Warnings:This episode contains explicit sexual language and themes, including discussions of kink, taboo desires, and sacred eroticism. Listener discretion is strongly advised. This content is not suitable for minors or sensitive audiences.

  5. 14

    Fuck it! Just Say it!

    🎙️ Episode Title: Fuck it! Just Say It!Podcast: The Real Us 🧨 In this raw and urgent episode, we talk about what no one wants to say out loud:Gun violence in our backyards,The “No Kings” protest that ended in tragedy,Utah’s rising political and cultural tensions.🎯 Affirmation of the Week:“I take accountability for my silence, and will be silent no more.” 💥 What We Cover:The “No Kings” protest shooting: remembering Afa Ah Loo, a vibrant Pacific Islander creative, father, and Project Runway alum—accidentally shot by a peacekeeper after a gunman pulled an AR-15 on the crowd.The WestFest Carnival shooting: a 16-year-old opened fire, killing a baby, a woman, and himself.Why Utah is becoming a flashpoint for political unrest and gun violence.📣 Just the Tip:Call your representatives. Your voice matters.Utah House: (801) 538-1029Utah Senate: (801) 538-1035U.S. Senators: (202) 224-3121 3 Things To Do:Find your state and national legislators.Reach out directly (phone > email > silence).Say something real. Try:“Hi, I’m [Your Name] from [City]. I’m calling about the recent shootings in Utah. I’m urging you to support common-sense gun safety laws. Please take this seriously.” ❤️‍🔥 GoFundMe Links to Support the Victims:🔗 Help Laura, Vera & Isaac after Afa’s Passing (Afa Ah Loo)🔗 In Loving Memory of Anderson Cabrera (Infant Victim) 🔥 Announcement:🚨 The Real Us: After Dark debuts this month – Smut Night, once a month!Next episode gets steamy… 🛑 Don’t wait. Don’t whisper.Say it with your chest.Silence is complicity. Speak up.

  6. 13
  7. 12

    Veterans FT. Sgt Major Says, Rene Criswell

    🎙️ Episode 16 – Veterans FT. Sgt. Major Says, Rene Criswell✨ Affirmation: “There is strength in surviving, but even more in healing.” This week, we honor the voices, experiences, and resilience of those who’ve served. Joined by the incredible Sgt. Major Rene Criswell, also known as Sgt. Major Says, this episode is a heartfelt and unfiltered conversation about life in and after the military, the realities of mental health, and the journey of rediscovering self outside of service. We talk about:The mental battles that follow the physical onesResilience and vulnerability as two sides of the same coinBreaking the silence around PTSD, identity, and healingWhy community and conversation matter—on and off the battlefieldWhether you're a veteran, love someone who served, or simply want to listen, learn, and grow, this episode is for you. 💬 "You can take the uniform off—but the stories, the lessons, and the strength stay with you forever." 📧 Got a story, a shoutout, or want to thank a vet? Write us at [email protected]

  8. 11

    A Smuty Tale

    🎧 Episode 15 – A Smutty Tale✨ Affirmation: There is magic in the stories I tell, especially the ones that make me blush.🚨 ⚠️ CONTENT WARNING – EXPLICIT MATERIAL AHEAD ⚠️This episode dives headfirst into the world of smut, sensual storytelling, and steamy confessions. If topics like sexuality, erotic writing, or cultural taboos around desire make you uncomfortable—or could be triggering for you—we lovingly invite you to skip this one and join us next week for a heartfelt episode on Veterans and Mental Health.🔥 This week, Benji and Alyssa get personal, playful, and just a little bit flushed as they explore:ChatGPT Smut – How AI-generated erotica has taken the internet by storm… and why smut still carries such a heavy stigma.Alyssa's Smut Diaries – Real talk on writing sensual scenes and confronting the judgment that comes with it.Benji’s Theories – Cultural shame, societal conditioning, and why some folks just can’t handle the heat.📝 Just the Tip: We dare you—write your own smut story! Whether it’s tender, taboo, or totally wild, your voice deserves to be heard.🚨 ⚠️ FINAL CONTENT WARNING ⚠️This episode includes open discussion of sex, erotica, and pleasure-based writing. If that’s not your thing, we absolutely respect that—next week’s episode is all about honoring our veterans and mental health. It's powerful, heartfelt, and waiting for you.💬 Closing thoughts: Whether you read it secretly under the covers or write it boldly for the world to see, smut is a mirror—of desire, imagination, and the most authentic parts of ourselves.So what would happen if we stopped shaming pleasure and started celebrating it? 📧 Questions? Comments? Fan fiction? We’re here for it: [email protected] 

  9. 10

    Sex Sells

    In this bold and honest episode, Benji and Alyssa dive deep into the world of sex, experiences, and kinks, exploring both the playful and powerful sides of intimacy. From a brief history of sex to the ways it shapes our identities and relationships, nothing is off-limits.We cover essential topics like consent and communication, the balance between emotional and physical connection, and the importance of safety and protection. Whether you're discovering new parts of yourself or reclaiming your sensuality, this episode reminds you that "Caring for my sensuality is caring for myself."💡 Just the Tip: Check out MISTR for free PrEP access and don't forget about Planned Parenthood as another great resource.Have a favorite sex position? Want to share your thoughts?📧 Reach out to us at [email protected]👇 Drop a comment and join the conversation!

  10. 9

    Breaking Vice

    🎙️ The Real Us – Episode Title: "Breaking Vice"Hosts: Alyssa & BenjiAffirmation of the Day: "I am defined by myself, not by others."Breaking Vice, In this episode, we dive deep into the power of vices — how it shapes identity, connects cultures, and (let’s be honest) sometimes gets a little spicy! 😏We start with a personal story that gets real about communication, expression, and self-discovery. Then, we roll into the fascinating history and fun facts about alcohol and drugs. Join the convo: What’s your favorite curse word? Drop it in the comments or email us at [email protected]!

  11. 8

    What That Mouth Do?

    🎙️ The Real Us – Episode Title: "What That Mouth Do?"Hosts: Alyssa & BenjiAffirmation of the Day: "Any and all things are possible through effort, love, and imagination!"What does that mouth do? In this episode, we dive deep into the power of language — how it shapes identity, connects cultures, and (let’s be honest) sometimes gets a little spicy! 😏We start with a personal story that gets real about communication, expression, and self-discovery. Then, we roll into the fascinating history and fun facts about language, touching on the roots of both English and Portuguese. And of course, we couldn’t resist wrapping things up with a segment on swear words — where they come from, how they’ve evolved, and why they're so fun to say.Join the convo: What’s your favorite curse word? Drop it in the comments or email us at [email protected]!

  12. 7

    Dino-rawr

    Welcome to the wildest episode yet! In Episode 11 of The Real Us Podcast, we take you on a time-traveling journey to a land before time—where giants roamed, roars ruled the earth, and the facts are just as fierce as the creatures themselves.🦖 This episode is a full-on prehistoric party packed with 50 fascinating dinosaur facts for all ages. But this isn't just about facts... it's about fun.We're turning learning into laughter with six interactive podcast challenges that bring the dino world to life through creativity, imagination, and pure audio magic.💥 Here’s what you’ll experience:🎧 Roar ReenactmentCan you guess the dinosaur from its roar? Whether you’re a dino expert or just want to laugh at Benji’s sound effects, this one’s for you!🎭 Dino Drama TheaterTiny arms. Big emotions. Real facts turned into mini audio skits that bring these ancient beasts into modern-day scenarios—with a whole lot of flair.⏱️ 60-Second Fact BlastBenji versus the buzzer. Can he spit rapid-fire facts before time runs out? Play along and test your own dino knowledge!Whether you're 7 or 70, a curious learner, a teacher, a parent, or just someone who still thinks dinosaurs are the coolest thing ever—this episode is made for YOU.Because at The Real Us Podcast, we’re about sparking creativity, learning through joy, and growing in every area of life—with curiosity, laughter, and a whole lot of heart. Even the dino-loving part of you deserves the mic sometimes.🎙️ So press play, grow with us, and let your inner dinosaur loose.Let’s RAWR through the prehistoric world—The Real You way!Sources:The Fact Site10 Shocking Facts About The Stegosaurus - The Fact SiteOctober 5, 2022 — Did you know that the Stegosaurus ate stones called gastroliths to help them digest their food? Keep reading to learn more facts about them!The Fact Site100 Fun Facts About Dinosaurs That'll Blow Your Mind - The Fact SiteJuly 25, 2022 — Dinosaurs are ancient reptiles that began roaming Earth over 230 million years ago. Venture into the past with these 100 fun dinosaur facts!The Fact SiteYoung Tyrannosaurus rex's probably had a thin coat... - The Fact SiteJanuary 30, 2022 — Young Tyrannosaurus rex's probably had a thin coat of downy feathers to stay warm. They did not need them as they got older due to their ...The Fact Site9 Beefy Facts About The Brontosaurus - The Fact SiteFebruary 22, 2021 — The dinosaur was discovered in 1879. · No Brontosaurus skull has never been found. · The Brontosaurus is NOT an Apatosaurus. · Brontosaurus means ...The Fact Site13 Terrific Facts About The Tyrannosaurus Rex - The Fact SiteSeptember 2, 2020 — They were one of the largest of all known predators that ever roamed the earth, weighing in at around 9.3 tons (8.4 tonnes) to 15.4 tons (14 tonnes).The Fact Site13 Valiant Facts About Velociraptors - The Fact SiteJune 2, 2020 — Velociraptors lived between 75-71 million years ago. They had 26 razor sharp teeth and were fast movers. Let's dig deeper with these 13 ...American Museum of Natural HistoryDinosaur Facts | American Museum of Natural HistoryThe earliest known dinosaurs appeared during the Triassic Period (approximately 250 to 200 million ago). Dinosaurs evolved into a very diverse group of animals ...American Museum of Natural HistoryDinosaurs - American Museum of Natural HistoryDinosaurs are a group of reptiles that first appeared about 245 million years ago. They dominated the planet until an extinction event wiped out a large swath ...American Museum of Natural HistoryTypes of Dinosaurs | American Museum of Natural HistoryDinosaurs are prehistoric reptiles that have lived on Earth from about 245 million years ago to the present. Modern birds are one kind of dinosaur because they ...American Museum of Natural History7 Questions About Tyrannosaurus rex | AMNHBased on fossil specimens, scientists have determined that a Tyrannosaurus rex could be up to 40 feet long and 12 feet high.American Museum of Natural HistoryDinosaur Feathers: Useful Adaptation | AMNHScientists think that many dinosaur species sported primitive feathers—precursors to those birds use to fly, court mates, and more.American Museum of Natural HistoryAsk a Scientist About Dinosaurs | AMNHMark: All dinosaurs didn't become extinct because modern birds are, in fact, dinosaurs. There are scientists in our Ornithology Department who are investigating ...American Museum of Natural HistoryDinosaur Bones - American Museum of Natural HistoryThrough the process of fossilization, ancient animal bones are turned into rock.American Museum of Natural HistoryDinosaurs Among Us - American Museum of Natural HistoryDinosaurs Among Us examines how one group of dinosaurs evolved into fascinating living creatures we call birds.American Museum of Natural HistoryDinosaur Eggs | American Museum of Natural HistoryAll dinosaurs hatch from eggs, including extinct dinosaurs and modern birds; as do crocodiles, the living group most closely related to dinosaurs.American Museum of Natural HistoryDinosaur Naming Conventions | American Museum of Natural HistoryLearn how dinosaurs get their names: the word dinosaur is from the Greek deinos (terrible) and sauros (lizard).The Fact SiteDinosaurs - The Fact Site100 Fun Facts About Dinosaurs That'll Blow Your Mind ... Did you know that the largest T-Rex skeleton ever discovered was named Sue? 29 Minutes Read.The Fact SiteThe Fact Site — 13 Terrific Facts About The Tyrannosaurus Rex |...The Tyrannosaurus Rex was the scariest and largest dinosaur to have ever roamed the Earth. Here are 13 terrific facts about the T-Rex that you should know!The Fact SiteThe Fact Site — The tallest dinosaur to roam the planet was the...The tallest dinosaur to roam the planet was the Sauroposeidon Proteles, a sauropod from the early Cretaceous period that could stand as tall as 59 ft (18 m) ...The Fact SiteThe Fact Site | Fun & Interesting Facts100 Fun Facts About Dinosaurs That'll Blow Your Mind. Did you know that the largest T-Rex skeleton ever

  13. 6

    All Fun and Games

    After getting real and raw last episode, we're lightening things up with some laughs, games, and fun facts! In this episode, we play a few silly (and maybe slightly chaotic) games and reveal some random, quirky, and unexpected things about ourselves. Sometimes the best way to connect is through joy and laughter.Take a break from the heavy and come have some fun with us!Got a fun story, random fact, or just something you want to share?Send it to us at [email protected] — we’d love to hear from you!Let’s keep it real, fun, and true. 💛 #TheRealUsPodcast

  14. 5

    A Hard Pill to Swallow

    Affirmation: It’s okay to begin again. Life is a battle—we win some, we lose some. Every time, we have to stop, breathe, and be thankful for any and all good in our lives.Description:In this episode, we get really vulnerable about some of the hardest truths we’ve had to accept—the hard pills to swallow. Growth isn’t easy. It requires us to take a deep breath, release our ego and prejudice, and face ourselves head-on. We all struggle, but the key is transformation. Who we were isn’t who we have to be.Challenge: Write down your 10 Commandments—your non-negotiables in life. What are the principles you refuse to compromise on?Just the Tip: Take a moment to remove all prejudice, ego, and emotion. Analyze your life, who you are, and who you have known. Ask yourself—do you like who you are?Comment your favorite thing about yourself and share your story with us at [email protected]. Let’s grow together. 💙 #TheRealUsPodcast

  15. 4

    It's a woman's world..

    🎙️ Affirmation: I am worthy of all the universe has to offer.Women have shaped history, broken barriers, and built legacies that continue to inspire us today. In this episode of The Real Us, Benji DeSomer and Alyssa Joy Chambers celebrate the power, resilience, and brilliance of women throughout history and in our everyday lives.From past trailblazers to modern changemakers, we’re diving into what it truly means to live in a woman’s world.💬 Drop a comment of your favorite women in history! Who inspires you? Who paved the way for you? Let’s honor their impact together.Tune in for real talk, raw stories, and the reminder that every single one of us is worthy of everything the universe has to offer. 💙✨ #TheRealUs #WomensWorld

  16. 3

    Let it go bitch

    🎙️ Affirmation: I accept what I cannot change.Life has a way of throwing curveballs, and sometimes, the hardest lesson to learn is letting go of what’s out of our control. In this episode of The Real Us, Benji DeSomer and Alyssa Joy Chambers dive into the power of release—why clinging to the uncontrollable only weighs us down and how true freedom comes from surrender.🔥 Just the Tip: Read The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins—it just might change the way you see things.💬 Comment Your Favorite "Let It Go" Expression! Whether it’s "Not my circus, not my monkeys" or "Bless and release," we want to hear what helps you move on! Let’s get real, get raw, and remind each other that letting go isn’t losing—it’s making space for what’s meant for us. 💙✨

  17. 2

    Ramblings of mad hatters!

    In this episode, we dive deep into the chaos of corporate America, the so-called "American Dream," and the never-ending struggle to find stability and sustainability in a world that never slows down. Life and time? Sometimes, they feel like pure bullshit—and we’re here to talk about it. 🔹 Affirmation of the Episode: Let them, and let me. 🔹 Just the Tip: Keep breathing, take a moment, and let the world flow around you.We’re embracing the madness, questioning the system, and finding our own way through it all. What’s your favorite spring activity? Drop a comment and let’s talk! 🌸 📩 Email us at [email protected] with your thoughts, stories, or just to say hey!

  18. 1

    Behind the smile

    "My emotions are not weaknesses; they are proof of my depth and humanity."Mental health is real, and so are we. Behind the Smile is a safe space where we talk openly about the struggles we often hide, sharing tools, skills, and real-life experiences to help navigate the ups and downs. No filters—just honest conversations and support.🌿 You're not alone. If you need help, reach out:📞 Utah Warm Line: 833-773-2588💬 Chat Support: 833-372-3388🚨 Utah Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255🆘 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U of U): 988💛 Need a boost? Positive Pep Talk: 707-873-7862🎙 The Real Us – Unfiltered, Safe, and TrueLife is raw, messy, and beautifully complex. The Real Us is a podcast where we dive deep into life’s highs and lows, embracing the conversations most people shy away from. Hosted by Benji DeSomer and Alyssa Joy Chambers, we create a safe space where authenticity reigns, vulnerability is celebrated, and real human connection is at the heart of it all.Whether you’re here for support, understanding, or just to know you’re not alone, these podcasts are for you. Let’s break the silence, build resilience, and remind each other that behind every smile, there’s a story worth sharing. 💙✨

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Welcome to 'The Real Us' - where authenticity meets impact. Hosted by Benji DeSomer and Alyssa Joy Chambers, this weekly podcast tears down the walls of pretense to bring you raw, unfiltered conversations that matter. Every Wednesday, we create a safe space for sharing transformative stories from underserved communities, entrepreneurs, and change-makers who are rewriting their narratives.From struggles to triumphs, mental health to business growth, we dive deep into the stories that often go untold. No filters, no scripts – just real people sharing real experiences that inspire, educate, and connect. Whether you're seeking inspiration, looking for authentic connections, or simply want to hear stories that reflect the true diversity of human experience, 'The Real Us' is your weekly destination for unfiltered, safe, and true conversations.Join us every Wednesday as we amplify voices that deserve to be heard and build a community where authenticity is celebrated. B

HOSTED BY

Benjamin Desomer & Alyssa Joy Chambers

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does The Real Us have?

The Real Us currently has 18 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is The Real Us about?

Welcome to 'The Real Us' - where authenticity meets impact. Hosted by Benji DeSomer and Alyssa Joy Chambers, this weekly podcast tears down the walls of pretense to bring you raw, unfiltered conversations that matter. Every Wednesday, we create a safe space for sharing transformative stories from...

How often does The Real Us release new episodes?

The Real Us has 18 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to The Real Us?

You can listen to The Real Us on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts The Real Us?

The Real Us is created and hosted by Benjamin Desomer & Alyssa Joy Chambers.
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