Sweet Tea Ethics

About Sweet Tea Ethics

Sweet Tea Ethics, with Dr. Ed Garnes, pours life lessons and conversations with creatives, artists, and cultural producers about the ways harmonious living and balanced well being have shaped them. Using Black psychological principles, Sweet Tea Ethics transforms grandma’s folk tales, personal experiences, and sobering life lessons into practical strategies for personal development and real-world application. The show is fueled by an uncanny mix of observational humor and candid social commentary from a Black therapist.

Publisher

Dr. Ed Garnes

Category

arts · health & fitness · society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

23 Sept 2025

Latest episode

21 Nov 2025

Latest episodes

10 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   21 Nov 2025

   Hold My Mule Musing:  'Put your dreams on water and see if they will float.'

   For the finale of Sweet Tea Ethics, this final Hold My Mule Musing reflects on the unwavering resilience and psychological strength within Black communities. Through stories of musical genius, faith, and collective redemption, the episode honors how these qualities liberate and heal—a testament to the idea that sometimes, you must "put your dreams on water and see if they will float." This heartfelt reflection is both a celebration of the journeys shared and an invitation to embrace hope, thanks, and wisdom learned along the way. Visit https://sweetteaethics.com to join the mailing list and to get bonus updates from Dr. Ed Garnes. #HoldMyMuleMusing #SweetTeaEthics #BlackResilience #CollectiveHealing #FaithAndRedemption

2. 

   14 Nov 2025

   Hold My Mule Musing: 'Mind your circle.'

   This episode of Sweet Tea Ethics features Dr. Ed Garnes reflecting on the importance of setting healthy boundaries and being mindful of the relationships you cultivate, drawing wisdom from family and lived experience. Through his "Hold My Mule Musings," Dr. Garnes reminds listeners that true compassion is rooted in self-respect and that "minding your circle" is essential to maintaining good mental health. Visit https://sweetteaethics.com to join the mailing list and to get bonus updates from Dr. Ed Garnes. #MindYourCircle, #SweetTeaEthics, #EdGarnes, #HoldMyMuleMusings, #Boundaries, #MentalHealth

3. 

   7 Nov 2025

   DJ Sir Daniel on Harmonious Healing, Activism and Musicology

   In this episode of Sweet Tea Ethics, host Dr. Ed Garnes sits down with DJ Sir Daniel in a compelling conversation titled "DJ Sir Daniel on Harmonious Healing, Activism and Musicology." They explore the origins of Queue Points to personal stories of resilience, they explore how music heals, inspires activism, and challenges mainstream narratives. Join the conversation as they unpack everything from Black psychological principles to the evolution of hip hop, all while celebrating authenticity and the vibrant spirit of cultural expression. Visit https://sweetteaethics.com to join the mailing list and to get bonus updates from Dr. Ed Garnes. Topics Covered: Music as a Healing Ritual: DJ Sir Daniel shares how music sustains and unites communities through emotional highs and lows. Diversity Builds Soul: His upbringing immersed in gospel, pop, and hip hop shaped a rich, inclusive musical worldview. Resilience & Safe Spaces: The conversation highlights adaptability and creating spaces where Black men can be emotionally authentic. Advocacy for Women in Hip Hop: Sir Daniel champions underrepresented voices, especially female MCs, as essential to cultural progress. Chapters 00:00 Intro Theme 00:26 Welcome to Sweet Tea Ethics 00:38 Introducing DJ Sir Daniel 00:55 DJ Sir Daniel's Background and Achievements 02:14 Pandora Initiative and Queue Points 04:02 Jazz Meditation Dedication 04:42 Music Quiz Challenge 06:56 DJ Sir Daniel's Musical Journey 18:08 The Birth of Queue Points 24:07 Critique of Black-Owned Media 24:40 The Importance of Balance and Safety 26:29 Navigating Media and Personal Choices 27:37 The Role of Capitalism in Media 28:51 Therapy and Representation in Black Culture 29:33 Stories of Resilience 36:32 Activism and Supporting Female MCs 40:43 Unity and the African Diaspora 44:30 Healing Playlist and Closing Thoughts 49:05 Outro Theme #BlackCulture, #Musicology, #Activism, #Podcast, #QueuePoints, #Resilience, #Healing, #SweetTeaEthics

4. 

   31 Oct 2025

   Hold My Mule Musing: "Love and support Black women."

   In this “Hold My Mule Musing” Dr. Ed Garnes recounts defending a Black woman editor who gave him his first major writing opportunity when she was unfairly criticized in a meeting. His story highlights the vital need to stand up for and uplift Black women, underscoring their central role as champions within the community and the everyday importance of expressing love and support for them. Visit https://sweetteaethics.com to join the mailing list and to get bonus updates from Dr. Ed Garnes. #SupportBlackWomen #SweetTeaEthics #HoldMyMule

5. 

   24 Oct 2025

   Honoring D'Angelo and Discussing Grief and Healing in Faith with Rev. Mashaun D. Simon

   In this episode of Sweet Tea Ethics, Dr. Ed Garnes is joined by Rev. Mashaun D. Simon for an honest, moving conversation about grief, healing, and faith at the intersections of Black identity, mental health, and inclusion. Dr. Garnes honors the legacy of D’Angelo, and with Rev. Simon examines the power of ritual, explores the transformative work of Project Joshua, and offers radical perspectives on journeying through loss, spirituality, and creating truly safe spaces for all. Pour yourself a glass and listen in for wise words, healing laughter, and plenty of heartfelt Sweet Tea Ethics. Visit https://sweetteaethics.com to join the mailing list and to get bonus updates from Dr. Ed Garnes. Topics Covered: Honoring D’Angelo and collective rituals of grief in the Black community. The purpose and vision of Project Joshua, supporting grief and wellness for LGBTQIA+ individuals. The challenges of navigating faith, mental health, and identity—especially for those often excluded from church spaces. Expanding and redefining traditions, and offering hope and strategies for authentic, affirming spiritual journeys. Episode Chapters 00:00 Intro 00:25 Hold My Mule Musing: "This is the D'Angelo joint." 02:36 Introducing Rev. Mashaun D. Simon 03:20 Project Joshua: Grief and Wellness 05:16 Personal Journey and Ministry Challenges 13:45 Expanding the Understanding of Grief 17:58 The Intersection of Faith and Mental Health 19:59 Mashaun's Path to Ministry 30:59 Creating Inclusive Spaces in the Church 31:51 Vision for Project Joshua 35:37 Supporting Grief Ministries for Black Queer Individuals 36:02 Church Hurt and the Grieving Process 36:49 Philosophical Insights and Social Media Engagement 39:22 NABJ and the Controversial Invitation 50:49 Tradition vs. Progress in Black Communities 55:59 Healing Playlists and Personal Reflections 01:00:40 Encouragement for Personal Spirituality 01:03:33 Closing Remarks and Social Media Information 01:04:34 Outro Theme #GriefHealing, #DAngelo #FaithJourney, #BlackChurch, #SpiritualCare, #ProjectJoshua, #InclusiveFaith, #MentalHealth, #CommunityHealing

6. 

   17 Oct 2025

   Hold My Mule Musing: "Love yourself, because sometimes you will be the only person who will."

   In this Hold My Mule Musing, Dr. Ed Garnes serves up a heartfelt helping of Sweet Tea Ethics on the importance of self-love and inner resilience. Drawing from his personal journey with detractors and the wisdom of his grandmother, Dr. Garnes explores the art of freeing yourself from others' expectations and the transformative power of jazz meditations for cleansing limiting beliefs. Visit https://sweetteaethics.com (https://sweetteaethics.com/) to join the mailing list and to get bonus updates from Dr. Ed Garnes. #SweetTeaEthics, #BlackPsychology, #IdentityCongruence, #Mentorship, #Healing, #CulturalReflections, #BlackExcellence, #SelfLove

7. 

   10 Oct 2025

   Lil' John Roberts on Healing Through Rhythm

   Dr. Ed Garnes sits down with legendary drummer Lil’ John Roberts to explore a journey steeped in musical evolution, healing, and spiritual mentorship. From his early days playing in church and collaborating with iconic artists, to his transition into teaching at Berklee College of Music, Lil’ John Roberts shares candid stories of resilience, creative breakthroughs, and the profound impact of rhythm on emotional well-being. Whether reminiscing about unforgettable fan moments with Janet Jackson and Prince or discussing the future of jazz, this conversation offers a deep dive into how music becomes a conduit for healing and inspiration in challenging times. Visit https://sweetteaethics.com (https://sweetteaethics.com/) to join the mailing list and to get bonus updates from Dr. Ed Garnes. John “Lil’ John” Roberts Bio John “Lil’ John” Roberts, a Philadelphia native and renowned drummer, gained recognition as a child prodigy alongside Christian McBride and Joey DeFrancesco in the Duke Ellington Orchestra. A Berklee College of Music alum, Roberts began his touring career with DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince before moving to Atlanta to play with top acts like Dionne Farris and Janet Jackson, with whom he toured for two decades. He’s devoted to mentoring youth through lessons, workshops, and masterclasses. Roberts’ extensive credits span across genres, working with icons including Stevie Wonder, Prince, Michael Jackson, Patti LaBelle, and Earth, Wind & Fire. He’s performed on major TV shows and produced his debut album “The Heartbeat” in 2014. In 2021, Roberts returned to Berklee as a professor and continues recording, performing, and inspiring musicians worldwide. #SweetTeaEthics, #LilJohnRoberts, #Jazz, #Healing, #MusicJourney, #Spirituality, #Mentorship

8. 

   3 Oct 2025

   Hold My Mule Musing: "You will never be enough for folks intent on disrespecting you."

   In this week's Hold My Mule Musing, Dr. Ed Garnes pours a special brew of Sweet Tea Ethics on navigating disrespect from folks intent on dimming your light. In this week's newsletter Dr. Garnes shares some updates about the show and more. Visit https://sweetteaethics.com/p/you-will-never-be-enough-for-folks (https://sweetteaethics.com/p/you-will-never-be-enough-for-folks) to read the updates. You can join the mailing list to get bonus updates from Dr. Ed Garnes. #SweetTeaEthics, #BlackPsychology, #IdentityCongruence, #Mentorship, #Healing, #CulturalReflections, #BlackExcellence

9. 

   26 Sept 2025

   The Art of Sweet Tea Ethics With Jay Ray

   Join Dr. Ed Garnes and his brother and play cousin, Johnnie Ray Kornegay III (Jay Ray), as they pour out a rich blend of life lessons, cultural reflections, and the improvisational spirit that defines Black psychology. In this candid conversation, they delve into personal history, identity congruence, mentorship, and the unique intersections of art, sports, and healing. From reminiscing about family legacies and the impact of influential mentors to sharing stories of overcoming discrimination and finding one’s true voice, this episode is a heartfelt exploration of what it means to navigate and thrive in a complex world. Tune in for an enlightening journey filled with authentic storytelling, deep reflections, and a healing playlist that resonates with the soul. Visit https://sweetteaethics.com (https://sweetteaethics.com) to join the mailing list and to get bonus updates from Dr. Ed Garnes. Jay Ray Bio Johnnie Ray Kornegay III (aka Jay Ray) is the Deputy Director of Strategy and Impact for CNP. In his role, Kornegay contributes to visioning and planning for the overall organization, while participating in creating organizational culture, sustainability, wellness and a productive and constructive work environment. In addition, he is co-host and producer of Queue Points, a podcast that informs and celebrates Black Music creatives through meaningful dialogue. He was a 2024 AIR Media New Voices AMPLIFY Fellow. #SweetTeaEthics, #BlackPsychology, #IdentityCongruence, #Mentorship, #Healing, #CulturalReflections, #BlackExcellence

10. 

    23 Sept 2025

    Sweet Tea Ethics Trailer

    Sweet Tea Ethics with Dr. Ed Garnes is where culture, psychology, and freedom lock in the same pocket. Each episode features artists, creatives, and spiritual disruptors who turn power into practice. Expect a jazz meditation to reset your nervous system, a healing playlist, and real talk on identity congruence—showing up as your whole self in every room. Visit https://sweetteaethics.com (https://sweetteaethics.com) to join the mailing list and to get bonus updates from Dr. Ed Garnes.

Reach and audience

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Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.