In this introduction, Amber shares what inspired her to create Coffee & Tea—a podcast dedicated to real people explaining why they believe what they do, without debating, shaming, or trying to win an argument.

After witnessing the Texas flood and feeling the deep polarization on her own doorstep, Amber realized how much she wanted something different. As a Democrat living in a conservative state, she knows what it feels like to be in the political minority. She also acknowledges the privilege she carries as a straight, married white woman—privilege that allows her to move through these conversations with a level of safety that many marginalized people don’t have.

This show is about creating a space to talk honestly about politics without ignoring the harm certain policies cause. Amber wants to be clear that while she recognizes harm exists on all sides of the political spectrum, she doesn’t believe the impact of Democrats and Republicans is the same, but we're sitting down to talk anyways.

Each episode, guests will share why they hold their beliefs, followed by relevant statistics and facts about the real-world consequences of those policies. After hearing the data, participants will be asked whether they still feel the same, whether they feel inclined to reconsider, or whether they need more time to reflect—conversations that will continue in future episodes.

Amber is tired of the constant trolling, dunking, and cruelty that have become hallmarks of modern political dialogue. She knows some people are genuinely awful, and others are simply misinformed—on both sides. But she also knows there are people with hearts of gold everywhere, and she’s interested in the humanity that still exists underneath all the noise.

This podcast isn’t about pretending that all beliefs are equally harmless or that there are no lines worth defending. It’s about remembering that behind every viewpoint is a story, a life experience, and often a genuine desire to do what’s right.

At the end of each season, Amber will reflect on the conversations she’s had, how her own thinking has changed, and what she hopes listeners will carry forward into their own lives.

If you’re exhausted by the shouting matches and want to hear something more human, Coffee & Tea invites you to pour a cup, take a seat, and listen in.