Ohio Valley Podcast “Hot Tea, No Sugar” Surpasses 1 Million Views
A new podcast originating from the Ohio Valley has quickly gained a large following, amassing over 1 million views across multiple platforms since its launch in September.
“Hot Tea, No Sugar,” hosted by Kelsey Cromar, Samantha Holcomb, and Taylor Baugh-McIntire, is produced under the Rig Studio umbrella in Bridgeport, Ohio. The trio, all Realtors for RE/MAX Broadwater, created the podcast as a creative outlet to discuss a wide range of topics outside of their professional lives. “We’re doing this because we’re chaotic, opinionated, and hilarious and apparently people enjoy listening to that,” Holcomb said. The podcast’s success highlights a growing trend of locally-produced content finding broad audiences through digital platforms.
The hosts emphasize the podcast’s authenticity and diverse perspectives as key factors in its appeal. “That’s what makes this work. Together, we can show up real, raw, and honest, and connect with people from all walks of life,” Holcomb explained. They cover trending topics, music, culture, business, and everyday life, and plan to feature guests ranging from Joe Exotic to local business owners. Baugh-McIntire added that the podcast also addresses serious issues, including conversations with domestic violence survivors, aiming to offer hope and support. You can find more information about domestic violence resources at the National Domestic Violence Hotline.
Cromar stated the podcast aims to raise awareness, spread truth, and bring joy to listeners, with a focus on community engagement. “We want to show up for the community just like they have for us for so long,” Baugh-McIntire said. “We like to bring awareness and bring hope to people.” The hosts intend to continue expanding their content with true crime mini-series and interviews with politicians.
“Hot Tea, No Sugar” is available on all major streaming services, as well as on YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram at @hotteanosugarpod, and the hosts say they have a lot more content planned for their growing audience.
