With summer coming to a close, it’s undeniable that we’re so excited for the upcoming fall season! Whether it be the crisp weather, falling leaves, or the excitement of a season mixed with coziness and spookiness, it’s easy to, well, FALL in love with FALL! 

We’ve had an amazing summer here at Pochi, and it all would not have been possible without our hard working crew members, as well as the overwhelming support from our customers. But of course, like all good things – they eventually must come to an end! With favorites like our S’mores Creamy Shake and Watermelon Slush coming to the end of their season, we’re trading summer for fall with a new lineup of fall specials. 

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If you haven’t heard about the exciting new seasonal drinks that have recently made a comeback to our stores, then you’re in for a treat! Welcome back fall favorites such as our Salted Caramel Shake and Caramel Apple Pie Shake, while also saying “Hello!” to our new addition – the Banana Bread Shake!

Drawing inspiration from the fresh baked goods that help make fall a time of comfort and community, these seasonal favorites are sure to bring a feeling of nostalgia to all. 

One of our favorite parts of fall, besides our amazing fall specials, would definitely have to be a new season of fashion (which means a fantastic opportunity to update our closets)!

Although the hustle and bustle of the summer still lingers through the month of September, it’s time to start planning ahead to the colder months of fall. From cozy dates to the pumpkin patch, to quiet nights in enjoying a hot milk tea by the fireplace,  we’ve got you covered with our fall fashion favorites. 

It can be difficult to keep up with yearly trends, and feeling obligated to make changes in your wardrobe can become expensive and time consuming! That’s why our go-to method of keeping up with quickly changing trends is through Amazon. With its efficient return policy, quick shipping, and wide variety, Amazon takes the cake when it comes to the best way to find new styles to compliment any wardrobe.

  On top of it all, Amazon fashion can come at an extremely affordable price! That way you can indulge in more fall activities, and, of course, grab your favorite bubble tea to match your outfit inspiration! We’d like to think a cup of your favorite boba is the best accessory to any outfit (but we might be a little biased hehe)!

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Take a look at our fashionable picks for all that fall has to offer, and leave a comment down below of which fall look is your favorite! 

Want to shop any of these fall fashion looks? Check out the links below to start shopping now to prep for the upcoming season!

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Crystal Star Earrings

Pointed Toe Heeled Pumps 

Slouchy Shoulder Bag

Round Tortoise Shell Sunglasses

Leather Jacket

Round Neck Top

Black Mini Skirt

Silver Teardrop Earrings

Black Rounded Bag

Nike Cortez Sneakers

Baseball Cap

Levi Jeans

New York Sweatshirt

Claw Clip Set

Slouchy Pullover Sweater

Neutral Tank Tops

Leggings

Cozy Socks

Candle

Scrunchies

Lounge Set

Pumpkin Necklace

Scrunch Socks

Platform Ugg Slippers

Claw Clip

Gold Hoop Earrings

Jumpsuit

Pullover Cardigan

Platform Converse

North Face Backpack

Silver Hoop Earrings

Apple Headphones

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RELATED LINKS

BOSSES OF THE BOBA BUSINESS

COLLEGE RECAP

SELF CARE

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Welcome back to another episode of Spill the Tea! On today’s episode, our hosts discuss the importance of having healthy ideations toward diet and how their upbringings may have affected the way they view their perspectives toward food. This idea also brings in an important question: is there any one RIGHT diet? How does one determine the best relationship to food for them? What does a healthy relationship to food look like? Join us as we dive into the world of diets and healthy eating on this informative new episode!

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RELATED LINKS:

SELF CARE
POP CULTURE
WHAT IS THAI TEA?

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Welcome back to another episode of Pochi Bubble Tea’s Spill the Tea!

On this episode, our hosts Megan, Sai, Val, and Tommy play a game of “Are you smarter than a fifth grader?” to test their retention of elementary level trivia that turns out to be a bit harder than they realize! As most of our hosts are recent college graduates, tune in to see just how much they can remember from their elementary years! For those tuning in, feel free to follow along to see just how many questions you’re able to answer and possibly beat our hosts! This is definitely an episode you won’t want to miss!

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Unveiling the Game’s History

Imagine it's 2007 – the year when TV screens got a taste of "Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader?" Hosted by the hilarious Jeff Foxworthy, this show had adults facing off against questions that seemed straight out of a kid's coloring book. From easy-peasy first-grade queries to fifth-grade head-scratchers, this show was like a rollercoaster of "Wait, I knew that, right?"

But hold up – the real scene-stealers were the fifth-grade whiz kids. Armed with sparkly enthusiasm and a knack for remembering things we probably forgot even existed, these mini-geniuses turned the game into a brainy adventure.

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Why Do We Get Stumped?

Life's journey takes us to some pretty fascinating places, and as we grow, our focus shifts towards becoming mini-experts in our fields. While we're out conquering the world, though, we sometimes unintentionally misplace our elementary school knowledge. Here's why:

1. Brain Traffic Jam: Think of your brain as a bustling city during rush hour. Over time, it becomes jam-packed with tons of stuff, making it a bit tougher to retrieve simple facts pronto.

2. Expert Mode: Adulting comes with a bonus feature – specialization! We become wizards in our chosen domains but might forget that a triangle has three sides. Oops!

3. Learning Remix: Remember the good ol' days of chalkboards and erasers? Well, teaching methods have evolved, and what was common knowledge back then might not be anymore. It's like the world's most unexpected remix.

4. Calculator Syndrome: Let's be real – when was the last time you did long division without an electronic sidekick? We've got tools for days, which sometimes means our brain's dusty filing cabinet isn't getting enough exercise.

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The Nostalgia of it All

Playing "Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader?" feels like a trip in a time machine. The questions teleport us to those carefree days when multiplication tables were our biggest challenge. The game's allure lies in that "aha" moment when we either breeze through a question or go "Whaaat?" in disbelief at the genius of a fifth grader.

This is one episode you WON’T want to miss if you’re familiar with the original game show — leave a comment if you were able to beat out our hosts!

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RELATED LINKS

SELF CARE
POP CULTURE
ASTROLOGY

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Welcome back to another episode of Pochi Bubble Tea’s Spill the Tea!

On this episode, the tables have been TURNED as Ralph and Malyn take a step back from their usual interviewing positions and have instead turned into the interviewees! With two familiar faces – Megan and Sai – taking the wheel on interviewing the pair, we are able to step into the shoes of what it really takes to run a bubble tea business, and find out some behind the scenes details of Ralph and Malyn’s roles. From their initial emergence into the world of boba, to shaping the work experience of a younger generation, and of course, maintaining their marriage on top of it all, join us as Ralph and Malyn spill all the tea on their lives at Pochi!

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Pictured Above: Co-owners Arthur, Malyn, and Ralph

Why Boba?

With a long-time love for bubble tea and being customers of Pochi themselves, Ralph and Malyn’s transition to owning a boba business of their own has felt like fate from the start. In fact, did you know Ralph’s first time trying bubble tea was at Pochi? It’s almost like it was meant to be! Going into the bubble tea industry isn’t exactly a career one dreams of from childhood, but Ralph and Malyn aren’t ones to stick to tradition! The draw of Pochi, for them, came from the unconventional, and unique model of the company itself: expanding outside the world of “traditional” bubble tea and instead offering drinks that “go against the grain”. For our two owners, the prospect of going into the business world was also something that felt natural to them. As Malyn was always surrounded with business minded individuals growing up, she feels that it was only a matter of time she followed in their footsteps. For Ralph, with his start in teaching martial arts, he shares how he enjoys the mentoring and growth aspect of building a company, as coaching and building community was already something he was familiar with. 

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Bubble Tea as a “Trend”

Although Pochi has become a veteran spot for all bubble tea lovers over the years, it isn’t hard to notice the amount of new boba shops constantly popping up around the area. With similar businesses all around them, Megan and Sai ask our business owners about what sets Pochi apart from the rest. Our owners share that Pochi is unique in that it focuses more on people than profits, and how saying “why not?” is more valuable than sticking with “no”. In this way, Pochi is able to provide products that are personalized to each customer’s taste, and are not afraid to experiment to create the perfect drink for any individual. By going beyond boundaries and tradition, Pochi also is able to live out its core values: “the team is family, the customers are family, and we take care of family”. With the expansion of new stores and the extension of their brand, Ralph and Malyn share how Pochi strives to expand the culture of their stores along with every new location, and that their ultimate goal is to share the values that have made the company so successful in the first place. 

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“In order to move the needle, you have to do something very different”

— Malyn Bartolome

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Working with a Younger Demographic

When stepping into any Pochi location, you may notice that the staff is made up almost entirely of teenagers and young adults. For Ralph and Malyn, working with a younger demographic has always felt like second nature to them, as they both have backgrounds in coaching martial arts (Ralph) and dance (Malyn). With their mentorship, the pair are able to shape the work experience of many first-time employees in the workforce, and have found that younger people are much more willing to adapt and grow with the company as they have had little experience with a job before. Unlike older employees that might be a bit stuck in their ways, a younger team has proven to respond well to change and are excited to grow their skills in the workforce. What employees have come to find out while working at Pochi is that there is so much more to the job than “just making boba”. Alongside making boba, crew members are able to learn leadership skills, responsibility, and confidence while working at Pochi, and can use these skills to translate into their future careers.

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Business and Marriage

For any business owner, working with partners and collaborators can sometimes feel like a struggle to see eye-to-eye. Now imagine if your colleague was also your husband or wife! As Ralph shares, it can sometimes be uncomfortable to have difficult conversations about what needs to be executed at work with Malyn, as the line between being direct and empathy becomes blurred. But, as the pair shares, it is important to realize that feedback from either side shouldn’t be taken personally, and instead, just a means to keep the business on its feet. At the end of the day, they are still husband and wife, and our owners feel secure in their position as both partners at home and at work. Now, some of you may be wondering: how do they keep a healthy work life balance? As our hosts Megan and Sai pose the question, Ralph and Malyn share how they don’t put the expectation to keep the two separated, as their work has become a huge part of their lives. Working together every day, it’s only natural that some conversations regarding their work trickle into their lives at home, and for them, they are perfectly accepting of it. 

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RELATED LINKS:

BRINGING AWARENESS TO PMDD W/ MALYN

MISCONCEPTIONS OF OUR ROLES

FRIENDSHIPS AS YOUNG ADULTS

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Welcome, bubble tea enthusiasts and adventure seekers! Marysville, Washington, is about to be infused with a burst of flavor and fun as Pochi Bubble Tea opens its doors in this charming city. Nestled in the heart of Snohomish County, Marysville offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and vibrant community spirit. So, prepare to sip on your favorite bubble tea while we take you on a journey through the enchanting wonders of Marysville!

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Bubble Tea Bliss at Pochi

Let's start with the obvious highlight: Pochi Bubble Tea! Step into a whimsical world of tantalizing flavors and chewy tapioca pearls. Whether you're a fan of classic milk tea or adventurous enough to try exotic fruit-infused blends, Pochi has something for every taste bud. With their friendly staff and welcoming ambiance, it's the perfect spot to unwind, recharge, and make delightful memories.

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Journey into Nature's Paradise

Marysville is blessed with an abundance of natural wonders, offering a refreshing escape from the bustle of everyday life. Begin your adventure at the Jennings Memorial Park, where you can stroll through lush greenery, have a picnic by the river, or simply enjoy the serenity of nature. For a more challenging escapade, hike up the scenic Ebey Waterfront Trail or explore the tranquil trails of the Strawberry Fields for Rover Off-Leash Dog Park.

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A Sip of History

Quench your thirst for knowledge by exploring Marysville's rich history. The Marysville Historical Society operates the Marysville Historical Museum, which houses fascinating exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of the town's past. Discover tales of the early settlers, learn about the area's Native American heritage, and gain insight into the growth and development of this vibrant community.

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Retail Therapy Galore

For those who love a little retail therapy, Marysville has you covered! The Seattle Premium Outlets, just a short drive away, is a shopping haven offering unbeatable deals on a wide range of designer brands. Get your shopping bags ready and prepare to splurge on stylish finds without breaking the bank!

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Savor the Flavors

Beyond bubble tea, Marysville boasts an array of delightful culinary experiences. Treat your taste buds to diverse cuisines, from authentic Mexican street tacos at Taqueria La Bamba to mouthwatering BBQ at Jake's Barbecue. Don't miss the local favorite, Fanny's Restaurant, for a comforting home-style meal that will leave you wanting more.

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Local Fun and Festivities

Marysville loves to celebrate, and you're invited to join in the fun! Check out the annual Marysville Strawberry Festival, a beloved event featuring a grand parade, live music, delicious food, and, of course, an abundance of juicy strawberries. You can also catch a show at the Village Theatre or explore local art galleries to appreciate the thriving artistic community.

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As Pochi Bubble Tea opens its newest location in Marysville, Washington, locals and visitors alike are in for a treat. From sipping on delicious bubble tea flavors to immersing yourself in the natural wonders, history, and vibrant culture of the city, Marysville offers an experience that will leave you with a smile. So, gather your friends, bring your enthusiasm, and let Marysville enchant you with its friendly charm, stunning landscapes, and delightful surprises around every corner. We'll be waiting with open arms and a refreshing bubble tea at Pochi!

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RELATED LINKS:

THE ULTIMATE KIRKLAND BUCKET LIST

SUMMER BUCKET LIST: SNOHOMISH COUNTY EDITION

WHAT IS THAI TEA?

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Welcome back to Spill the Tea! In this episode, we're breaking down the stereotypes and exploring the captivating world of self-care from a gender perspective. Join us as we dive into the conversation on the contrasting differences in self-care between men and women, focusing on skin care, hair care, and everything in between. From multi-step skincare routines to grooming rituals, we'll uncover the habits that make us feel our best and confident in our skin, regardless of gender.

But that's not all – brace yourself for some real tea-spilling! Our enthusiastic hosts and guests will divulge their favorite go-to products, holy-grail treatments, and secret hacks that leave them feeling pampered and rejuvenated. With all their shared recommendations, there might just be a few tips and tricks that you as a listener would want to implement! Whether you're a beauty enthusiast or simply curious about the world of self-care, sit back and relax as our hosts Megan, Sai, Malyn, and Tommy find out what self-care is all about. 

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Now you may be wondering: how did this deep-dive into self-care start? Thanks to our host Tommy, and the discovery that he uses 5-in-1 shampoo (GASP!), our interest into the topic grew and grew. As Megan, Sai, and Malyn interrogate Tommy about his questionable choice in hair cair, they also offer their suggestions to what he could try instead – 5-in-1 product be gone! Tommy also shares his “water hose” skin care method, which causes the girls to raise a few eyebrows! Without an established skin or hair care routine, our hosts Megan, Sai, and Malyn give Tommy a few tips to elevate his routine for the better. 

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Next on the agenda: sunscreen! Possibly the most underrated product for men in general, the girls continue the discussion with an emphasis on the importance of sunscreen and the anti-aging effects. Whether the sun is ablaze in the sky or whether it's a downpour outside, sunscreen is always a must to protect against your skin barrier. Whether you’re a man or a woman, it’s always important to think ahead for your future self and use the best preventative, anti-aging methods possible. Trust us – your future self will thank you!

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In this episode, we also discuss different cleaning routines around the house and why men tend to be a bit, well, messier in our experience! Although it may still be a mystery, Tommy and the girls explore their own habits and break down stereotypes as to why house maintenance may be more or less important to men and women. One thing our hosts can agree on is that a clean living environment contributes to a clean state of mind, and how maintenance of living spaces allows for them to be more motivated in their day-to-day tasks. Whether it be tidying up their bathrooms, bedrooms, or kitchens, join us as we share our favorite tips on cleaning and organizing. 

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 In the end, our hosts discover that self-care shouldn’t just be segregated between men and women, and that anyone could benefit from implementing clean, healthy routines into their days. Whether you consider yourself a certified self-care lover or don’t pay much attention to it, you won’t want to miss this episode of Spill the Tea!

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RELATED LINKS

POP CULTURE

ASTROLOGY

WOULD YOU RATHER?

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Welcome back to another episode of Pochi Bubble Tea’s Spill the Tea!

On this episode, our hosts Megan, Sai, Val, and Tommy play a game of trivia testing each other on popular culture! From television shows, music, actors, and more, our hosts quickly learn that some of these references sometimes go beyond their scope of current day knowledge, and how pop culture has ultimately taken a shift from generation to generation. Join us as we navigate through popular references that span from the 1990’s to the 2010’s, and see if you were able to guess correctly! 

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So what exactly is “pop culture”? Pop culture, short for popular culture, refers to the collection of ideas, beliefs, trends, and activities that are widely recognized or enjoyed by a large segment of the general public at a particular point in time. It encompasses various forms of entertainment, such as music, movies, television shows, literature, fashion, art, sports, internet memes, and celebrity gossip. Pop culture is constantly evolving and influenced by societal trends, technological advancements, and the interests and preferences of the masses. It often reflects the attitudes, values, and tastes of a specific era or generation and serves as a means of social identification and shared experience among individuals.

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Want to play along with our hosts? Here’s a few of the questions we’ve featured in today’s podcast:

• Who plays the role of Tony Stark/Iron Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe?

• What is the name of the fictional town that “Stranger Things” is set in?

• Which boy band is known for hits such as “I Want It That Way”?

• Who is the creator of the animated TV show “The Simpsons”?

• Which actor played the role of Han Solo in the Star Wars series?

• Who plays the character of Jack Sparrow in “The Pirates of the Caribbean”?

• Who is the lead singer of Coldplay?

• What is the name of the fictional school attended by the students in the “Harry Potter” series?

• Who plays Jack Dawson in “Titanic”?

• What is the name of the coffee shop in the TV show “Friends”?

• Who played the character of Rachel Green in the TV show “Friends”?

• What American singer-songwriter is known for hits such as “Blinding Lights”?

• Who is the character played by Keanu Reeves in “The Matrix”?

• Which British actor played the role of James Bond in “Skyfall”?

• Who is the creator of the TV show “The Office”?

• What is the name of the fictional city in which the show “The Simpsons” takes place?

• Who played Marty McFly in the “Back to the Future” movies?

• What is the name of the band fronted by singer Bono?

• Which actress plays the character of Elle Woods in the movie “Legally Blonde”?

• Who is the creator of the TV show “Breaking Bad”?

• Who played the character of Walter White in the TV show “Breaking Bad”?

• Which Australian actor plays the role of Wolverine in the Marvel Cinematic Universe?

• What is the name of the famous actor/rapper with hits such as “Candy Shop”?

• Who is the actor that plays Captain America in the Marvel Cinematic Universe?

• What is the name of the band that released the song “Stairway to Heaven”?

• Who played the character of Forrest Gump?

• What is the name of the lead character of “Breaking Bad”?

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RELATED LINKS:

PLAYING “HEADS UP”

WOULD YOU RATHER?

WHO IS THE MOLE (ROUND TWO)?

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Here at Pochi, one of our most popular drinks and a continuous crowd favorite is our Thai Tea. With variations ranging from Creamy Shake to Milk Tea, this iconically orange bubble tea is a standout contender for anyone new to trying boba. Although we offer a wide variety of teas to choose from, our Thai Tea is definitely the most distinctive in flavor and color compared to our black, green, or oolong teas. But this got us thinking — how DID Thai Tea become so popular and what is the history behind this delicious drink? Join us as we take a deep dive into the origins of Thai Tea and learn more about what makes it so special.

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The Origins of Thai Tea

Thai Tea, also known as "cha-yen" or "cha-yen boran," has its roots deeply embedded in the cultural tapestry of Thailand. Its story begins with the introduction of tea to Thailand during the reign of King Rama V in the late 19th century. As Thailand had no tea plantations of its own, the king encouraged farmers to cultivate tea leaves, which were primarily imported from China and India.

Thai Tea owes much of its character to the Chinese and Indian tea traditions. Chinese immigrants brought with them their expertise in tea cultivation and processing techniques, which helped shape the Thai Tea industry. Indian tea, with its robust flavor profile, influenced the preference for strong and aromatic teas in Thai culture.

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The Thai Tea Phenomenon

In the early 20th century, Thai Tea began to gain popularity as a refreshing and energizing beverage among the local population. Street vendors and small tea shops sprouted across the country, serving cups of Thai Tea to passersby. It was during this time that the iconic Thai Tea recipe, consisting of black tea, condensed milk, and sugar, emerged as the hallmark of Thai tea preparation.

As Thailand embraced modernization and urbanization in the latter half of the 20th century, Thai Tea underwent a transformation. With the advent of mass production and commercialization, ready-to-drink Thai Tea became widely available, packaged in cans or bottles. This accessibility further fueled the popularity of Thai tea, making it a ubiquitous presence in the lives of Thai people.

In recent decades, Thai Tea has transcended its borders, captivating taste buds around the world. Thai restaurants and specialty tea shops across various countries offer Thai tea on their menus, often showcasing creative adaptations and combinations. The distinctive orange hue, robust flavor, and creamy texture have become hallmarks of Thai Tea's international appeal!

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Thai Tea Variations and Innovations

While the classic recipe of Thai Tea remains beloved, there have been exciting variations and innovations in recent years. Some establishments experiment with different tea bases, such as green tea or herbal infusions, creating unique flavor profiles. Additionally, there is a growing trend of incorporating Thai Tea into desserts, including ice cream, cakes, and boba (bubble tea).

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Cultural Significance

Thai Tea has become more than just a refreshing beverage; it holds cultural significance in Thai society. It is often associated with social gatherings, street food culture, and Thai hospitality. Thai Tea's vibrant flavors and distinct presentation have become symbolic of the warm and welcoming nature of Thai people.

The history of Thai Tea is a testament to the power of cultural exchange and culinary evolution. From its humble beginnings to its widespread popularity today, Thai tea has captivated the hearts and palates of people worldwide. Whether enjoyed on the bustling streets of Bangkok or sipped in a cozy café abroad, Thai Tea continues to be a delightful reminder of Thailand's rich heritage and its vibrant tea-drinking culture.

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Since Thai Tea has become such as beloved favorite here at Pochi, we decided to experiment and try a cool variation of the drink — Blue Thai Tea! Instead of the classic orange color Thai Tea typically produces, this variation of Thai Tea is, yes, you guessed it, blue! Check out our blog post on how we attempted to make our own version of Blue Thai Tea and maybe even recreate the drink yourself at home!

LET'S TRY BLUE THAI TEA!

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Thai Tea Recommendations

Wanting to try Thai Tea and experience its unique flavor? Here’s a few of our favorite picks that are sure to turn you into a fan:

• Thai Tea Milk Tea w/ Condensed Milk Swirls

• Thai Tea Shake

• Thai Tea Shake w/ Ice Cream Blended

• Thai Tea Shake w/ Oreos Blended

Recommended Toppings: Boba, Mini Boba, Egg Pudding, Grass Jelly

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Want to try making Thai Tea at home? Check out our favorite brand of Thai Tea on Amazon!

Pantainorasingh Thai Tea

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RELATED LINKS:

LET’S TRY BLUE THAI TEA!

WHAT IS TARO? WHAT IS UBE?

MUST-DO’S FOR BUBBLE TEA

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Welcome back to another episode of Spill the Tea!

On today’s episode, we delve into the world of politics with Sam Cho! As the youngest and first person of color in his position, Sam has been serving as a Port Commissioner since 2019 and currently holds the position of president. As an immigrant from South Korea, he is passionate about the economy of the future. Sam's role as a Port Commissioner involves setting policies that govern the seaport and airport, including the SeaTac and Port of Seattle. He oversees the docking of fishing vessels, engages in business development for the port, and views the port as an economic development agency that creates jobs and provides economic stimulus through imports and exports.

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The Start of Sam’s Political Career

Sam's journey into politics was unexpected. With a background in international relations and economics, he initially aimed to become a foreign service officer dealing with foreign policy. However, he transitioned into local politics when he worked as a legislative assistant in Congress and later served as a special assistant during the last two years of President Obama's term. After not being reappointed under the Trump administration, Sam returned to Seattle, where he encountered challenges finding employment. An opportunity arose when he noticed an egg shortage in South Korea due to avian influenza, leading him to export eggs to South Korea with low tariffs.

His path eventually led him to the Port Commissioner role, where he ran and won, and he is now up for reelection soon. As president of the commission, Sam sets the agenda, priorities for the year, and serves as a spokesperson for the port. His genuine and approachable demeanor has made him stand out in the world of politics, breaking down barriers and fostering personal relationships with staff and colleagues. Sam embraces new opportunities as they come and hopes to redefine political relationships by focusing on building connections and making decisions faster.

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The Importance of Representation

During the pandemic, Sam learned valuable lessons, particularly the importance of accessibility and listening to the concerns of businesses in the airport. Through creative solutions, no businesses at the airport closed, showcasing the impact of approachable leadership. Sam's motivation for entering politics stems from a desire for public service and bettering the human condition, especially within minority communities. As an immigrant himself and a business owner's son, he understands the significance of representation and believes diverse leaders in governance are essential.

Sam recognizes the skepticism and hesitation within the AAPI community towards politics due to historical experiences and distrust in the system. He hopes to serve as a model for future leaders and emphasizes the importance of diverse representation to ensure marginalized communities have a seat at the table. He encourages being proactive rather than reactive, amplifying voices before situations escalate. Sam's American Dream story, from his parents' hard work to his white-collar profession, highlights the value of perseverance and finding one's unique path.

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Advice for Newcomers

For anyone considering a career in politics or working for a port, Sam stresses the importance of networking and building relationships within the political space. He advises seeking mentors and understanding personal motivations for entering politics, focusing on the desire to effect change and serve the community. Sam emphasizes that making a difference does not require elected office and encourages individuals to think beyond titles.

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RELATED LINKS:

SEO STRATEGIST TO PLUS-SIZE MODEL W/ VANESSA RONQUILLO

BUILDING COMMUNITY THROUGH STORYTELLING W/ TEENA THACH

COMING OF AGE THROUGH PARENTHOOD W/ ANDREW SANTOS

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Welcome back to another episode of Pochi Bubble Tea’s Spill the Tea!

On this episode of spill the tea, our hosts Ralph, Malyn, Megan, and Tommy do a deep-dive into their astrological signs, and try to determine the accuracy of their charts. Whether or not you believe in astrology, much like our skeptical host Ralph, it can be agreed that they are a fun way to examine someone’s personality regardless of its validity. Join us to explore the intricacies of astrology and learn new things about one another based on our signs. 

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Our Big Threes

If you’re interested in learning more about astrology, taking a look at your “big three” can be a great starting point. To start, input your date of birth, time of birth, and place of birth into any astrology chart generator. For our hosts, the app “Co-Star” is able to provide a look into their entire chart, which helps them to identify their three: sun, moon, and rising (also known as ascendent). Your sun sign is probably what you’re most familiar with, and represents a person's core identity, ego, and basic personality traits. Your moon sign represents a person's emotional nature, intuition, and inner world. It can also reveal a person's emotional needs and how they express their feelings. The rising sign, also known as the ascendant, represents a person's outer personality and how they present themselves to the world. It can also reveal a person's physical appearance and how they approach new situations. Our hosts reveal each of their big three and, with the help of Co-Star, analyze what each one represents:

• Ralph: Libra Sun, Virgo Moon, Taurus Rising

• Malyn: Pisces Sun, Gemini Moon, Libra Rising

• Megan: Virgo Sun, Scorpio Moon, Capricorn Rising

• Tommy: Aquarius Sun, Pisces Moon, Capricorn Rising

For all the astrology buffs tuning in, what do you think about our hosts’ big threes? Do any placements stand out to you?

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Is Astrology Real?

Astrology is an ancient practice that has been around for thousands of years. It is based on the idea that the movements and positions of celestial bodies such as planets and stars can influence human affairs and events on Earth. Astrologers use this information to create a birth chart or horoscope that can reveal insights about a person's personality, strengths, weaknesses, and potential life path.

For many, the concept of astrology can be questioned in its validity. While some people believe that astrology is a valid tool for self-discovery and can provide insight into a person's personality and life path, others view it as a pseudoscience that lacks scientific evidence to support its claims. There is no scientific evidence that supports the claim that the movements and positions of celestial bodies, such as stars and planets, have a direct influence on a person's personality traits, behavior, or life events. However, some people find that astrology can be a useful tool for gaining insight into themselves and their relationships, even if its accuracy is questionable.

Ultimately, whether or not one believes in astrology is a personal choice, and it is up to each individual to decide if they want to incorporate astrology into their lives.

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RELATED LINKS:

FRIENDSHIPS AS YOUNG ADULTS

FINDING IDENTITY & AUTHENTICITY W/ ARTIEL CASTILLO

2023 RESOLUTION CHECK-IN

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Welcome back to another episode of Pochi Bubble Tea’s “Spill The Tea” Podcast! On today’s episode, hosts Ralph, Malyn, and Arthur are joined by local artist Emily Chan, also known as Brightspot Designs! If you’ve been to our Kirkland location, you are definitely familiar with Emily’s “punny” food art adorning the walls and counters of the store! From greeting cards and stickers, to pins and placecards, Emily sits down with us to share her journey of artistry as she navigates through the world of retail and business and how she was able to get her start in the industry. As Brightspot Designs has flourished in multiple retail locations in the PNW region, our hosts are excited to learn more about Emily’s path to gaining exposure for her art and the potential next steps of her career. 

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From Corporate to (Greeting) Cards

Coming from a background of graphic design, Emily shares with our hosts her transition from the corporate world to becoming a self-made business woman. After taking a short hiatus from her work in order to raise her kids as a stay-at-home mom, Emily eventually realizes that the corporate world was NOT something she wanted to return to! By using her skills of graphic design and overall creativity, Brightspot Designs was born! As she remembers her first job working retail at Hallmark, Emily shares with our hosts the full-circle moment of her creating and sharing her own cards with the community, and how stepping away from the corporate world allowed for her to create a brand that is authentic to herself. She also shares with us how her business has been able to represent AAPI cultures (especially through the food on her designs) and incorporate products that are authentic to the communities around her. 

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A “Bright” Beginning

As Emily ventures into the world of retail, Emily shares with our hosts the unexpected generosity of other businesses and how willing they have been to collaborate with her on putting out new products. From selling at retailers such as Uwajimaya, Lady Yum, and of course, Pochi Bubble Tea Cafe, Emily emphasizes the importance of finding solutions to common problems and making retail pitches as seamless as possible. From establishing a simple ordering process, having catalogs of products ready, to making displays accessible and preconstructed, she’s discovered that sellers are more inclined to collaborate when there is a smooth, established plan of action. Emily also notes that the support from her family has also played a huge role in making sure her business is successful, and how she would not be able to have accomplished as much without her husband, kids, and mother by her side. 

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Challenges and Next Steps

When starting a new business, it’s inevitable that there will be bumps in the road and moments of self-doubt. As Emily shares with us this episode, she’s found herself questioning her abilities and saying, “Is this the way I should be going?” Although there have been challenges, Emily says that the support of her husband and family are truly what has helped her through hard times, and has made sure to provide support and understanding even when she didn’t believe in herself. As for the next steps for her company, Emily hopes to branch outside of Washington state and explore even bigger retail stores to potentially have her products in. When asked about what advice she would give to other entrepreneurs trying to pursue their business interests, Emily stresses the importance of having trust in your community and making use of resource sharing from other businesses that may have similar experiences. 

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MORE FROM BRIGHTSPOT DESIGNS:

www.brightspotdesign.com

Instagram: @brightspotdesign

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brightspotsdesign

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On this episode of Spill the Tea,

we sit down with Huy Nguyen and Lian Chavada, two experts in the world of real estate, to learn about their journey in the industry and gain valuable insights into the home-buying process.In this episode, Huy and Lian share their knowledge and experience with listeners, providing practical tips and advice for first-time homebuyers and those looking to get into real estate. From navigating the current market conditions to finding the right property, they offer valuable insights and strategies to help listeners achieve their real estate goals. Huy and Lian also delve into the personal side of their partnership, discussing how they are able to work together effectively to provide the best possible service to their clients. Through candid conversations and personal anecdotes, they offer a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to be a successful real estate team.Whether you're interested in learning the ropes of real estate or a first-time homebuyer, tune in to gain valuable insights and learn from the experts in the field.

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Watch or Listen Now on YouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify

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Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

Huy and Lian sit down with us to share how they have been able to combine their expertise in realty to provide an efficient workflow that is beneficial to both their efforts and to the clients they work with. Both Huy and Lian believe that the first step in their business is to value a sense of community, and prioritize the needs and values of their clients in order to make the home buying process as seamless as possible. In order to work effectively, they both acknowledge that an important part of their partnership is to know each other’s work ethic, and building trust in one another in order to communicate. When it comes down to the home buying experience, creating effective plans when encountering challenges is extremely important, and knowing that success is not always a linear process. As Ralph notes during the conversation, progress is always more important than perfection!

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Approaching the Home Buying Process

Both Huy and Lian know how intimidating it can be to approach buying a home for the first time, and have been able to develop monthly workshops in order to educate those who may not know anything about real estate. It can definitely be an emotional process, and Huy and Lian strive to make the steps to homeownership as accessible as possible. As we dive deeper into their tips and tricks to home buying success, here are a few of our favorites that will definitely help any experienced or new buyer:

1. Don’t focus on the house, focus on a comfortable monthly payment

2. Prioritize room for other expenses – work life balance is important!

3. Ask yourself WHY you’re buying a home – what does your lifestyle require?

4. Don’t let interest rates deter you! There are options to dealing with a higher rate that are more approachable than you may think. 

5. There will be sacrifices when finding the perfect home for you, so be realistic about what is best suited for your lifestyle AND wallet.

6. Your first home may not always check every box on your list, but there are affordable steps you can take to make your home comfortable and reflect your needs!

7. Take a chance on unlikely options – you’ll never know what you’ll end up loving!

8. Tour multiple properties to figure out what you like and dislike

9. Be truthful to yourself and only buy when you feel ready!

10.  Don’t let the media fool you into thinking homebuying is out of your reach! There are always options and exceptions that you can find to fit in with your goals

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Tips to Getting Started in Real Estate

As Huy and Lian have found their footing in the real estate industry, they both share their best advice to those who may be interested in becoming a real estate agent or loan officer themselves. One of the most important tips is to network, network, network! Building connections with your community is vital to your success in real estate, and your credibility will increase once you are able to develop personal relationships that build trust in your ability. Having the right mindset is also key to achieving your goals, and making sure to keep yourself accountable and on a schedule is important to staying on track. As Huy shares with us, “Get comfortable with being uncomfortable!” No journey to success would be complete without failures, but it’s all about how we learn and grow from these bumps in the road that determine our progress as both an agent and an individual. 

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EXPLORE MORE:

CONTINUING TO BUILD COMMUNITY & BEYOND W/ TEENA THACH

EMBRACING YOUR STRUGGLE STORY W/ BENJI TRAVIS

FROM SEO STRATEGIST TO PLUS SIZE MODEL W/ VANESSA RONQUILLO

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Welcome back to another episode of Spill the Tea! On today’s episode, Megan, Sai, Val, and Malyn sit down to reflect on their college experiences and share how their expectations differed from their collegiate realities. As Megan, Sai, and Val are nearing the end of their college careers, they look back on their earlier years and discuss how far they have come from being freshmen to seniors. Our hosts also discuss how they’re college experiences have been unconventional compared to other students, and give their best advice to graduating high school seniors about what to REALLY expect when starting at a university. 

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Time flies when you’re having fun?

Many would say to cherish your college years since the years will fly by before you know it, but for our hosts, they share how they’re college experiences have been anything but short. With every new year feeling like a lifetime in their eyes, Megan, Sai, and Val agree that their development as young adults have truly been shaped by their experiences with each coming year. Of course, as they near the end of their academic lives, the finish line feels so close, but yet so far! When nearing graduation, it can seem like there is a never-ending list of affairs to be put in order. From planning out graduation pictures, to sending out invitations to grad parties, to ordering your cap and gown, things can get overwhelming quick! Hang in there ladies – only a few more months to go!

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An Unconventional Journey

Compared to their peers, Megan, Sai, Val, and Malyn touch on how their college experiences may have differed from the typical idea of what a student may experience. As all four of our hosts have commuted to and from class instead of living on campus, they share how being on campus has been less of a social experience and rather just a place of learning. When they’re done with their school days, the girls typically find themselves working at Pochi and enjoying time at home rather than engaging in on-campus activities. Megan shares with the group that she definitely experienced FOMO (fear of missing out) when she entered college as a commuting freshman, but admits that living at home was a much better option for her. Whether you commute or plan on living in a dorm, everyone’s experiences will be different, and there are definitely pros and cons to both options!

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Advice to Incoming Freshman

Are you a high school senior thinking about going to college? Ever wondered what college is REALLY like? Megan, Sai, Val, and Malyn share their best advice to graduating seniors, and how to restructure your mindset of what to expect in college. Here are a few of their best tips:

1. College coursework is DEFINITELY more difficult than you might think, so don’t feel discouraged when things seem unfamiliar.

2. Professors won’t keep you accountable for your work, and you have to learn to keep yourself on a schedule so that you don’t fall behind!

3. Relearn how to study! Starting an assignment the night before it’s due isn’t always going to work out or help you retain information well enough for an upcoming test! This may have worked in high school, but you’re in for a rude awakening if you try to continue this method in college!

4. With a larger amount of students per class, it can definitely feel harder to connect with your professors. Make sure to utilize TA’s and office hours!

5. Everyone will have successes and failures, so don’t feel discouraged that others may be performing better than you. In reality, everyone is going to struggle in college – it’s inevitable!

6. Don’t be too set on a major or career! When starting college, you could discover an entirely new interest that you’d want to pursue, so keep an open mind!

7. Remember to HAVE FUN! Of course it’s important to stay focused on your degree in college, but having a balance between your school and social life will definitely elevate your experience and provide lasting memories.

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RELATED ARTICLES:

EXPERIENCING BURNOUT AND HOW WE DEAL WITH IT

THE PRESSURE TO OVERACHIEVE

HOW TO FIND FRIENDS & COMMUNITY IN COLLEGE

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Welcome back to another episode of Pochi Bubble Tea’s Spill the Tea!

On today’s episode, our hosts Ralph, Malyn, Arthur, and Sai sit down to discuss a few common misconceptions of their roles in the company. It’s always important to never judge a book by its cover, and our hosts know that they definitely get their fair share of misjudgement when it comes to what their roles involve around the stores. From management, marketing, IT, ownership, and of course, working in-store, tune in for an exclusive glimpse into what it's REALLY like to be a part of the Pochi Bubble Tea team!

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“Bobaristas have it so easy!”

When you walk through the doors of any Pochi location, it can seem like a very laid back place to work! From the friendly cashiers, to Bobaristas smiling while making drinks, to workers singing along to their favorite songs, it can be easy to make the misconception that working at Pochi is a piece of cake. But we’ll let you in on a little secret – things aren’t always as easy as they may seem! In reality, the work our Bobaristas do is no joke! Of course the team is able to have fun with each other, but hustling and keeping each other accountable is always a priority. Although they experience some busy hours and serve hundreds of customers a day, the best part about the team is that they always know how to lift each other up when things get stressful!

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“Don’t managers just tell people what to do?” 

It’s a common misconception that a manager’s only job is to “boss around” their team, but in reality, managers do much more than you’d expect! It can be easy to think that they only delegate tasks to their crew, but there are tons of behind the scenes tasks that even regular team members aren’t able to see! Rather than “bossing” around their team, our managers instead act as leaders to GUIDE their teams to success, and hold a large amount of accountability and responsibility for themselves when mistakes are made. It can also be easy to think that managers never make mistakes, but in reality, they’re human too! Everyone makes mistakes, and by owning up to theirs, our managers are able to build trust with their team and grow an even stronger relationship with them.

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“Marketing is not even that serious of a job!”

If you aren’t familiar with the ins and outs of marketing, it can seem like an easy job from the outside! In fact, the role comes with an extreme attention to detail, even when it comes to a “simple” product. It may seem like an Instagram post or story would be an easy task, but the process from start to finish takes much longer that you’d expect! From editing, to future planning, to crafting the perfect picture and caption, a post that you could view in two seconds could take up to more than two hours to execute. Marketing also isn’t all about photos and advertisements, but also involves countless behind the scenes tasks to manage analytics, strategy, and branding.

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“Technology comes ready to use!”

Setting up technology can’t be that hard…can it? According to host and IT specialist Arthur, his job can be a never ending set of responsibilities. From troubleshooting and testing, being on-call to repair any complications, to finding hands-on solutions at a moment's notice, working with technology involves a challenging process that can only be perfected by the most experienced IT professionals – we’re talking about you Arthur! Without Arthur’s expertise, our locations would not be able to function properly!

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“When you own your own business, you can be your own boss!”

According to our hosts Ralph, Malyn, and Arthur, many people assume that by owning Pochi they are able to work independently and under their own jurisdiction. In reality, the higher you move up the ladder, the more people you serve, not the other way around. Our hosts share how important it is to acknowledge that their team members don’t work for them, but instead they work for their team, and do everything they can to support their growth. It can also be misconstrued that the owners are experts about everything that goes on in their business, and that they are knowledgeable about everything all at once. Instead, Ralph, Malyn, and Arthur emphasize that giving their team the space to succeed in their strengths allows them to take a step back and not micromanage, and is able to build an air of confidence and trust with their crew.

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RELATED LINKS:

WHAT IS IT LIKE BEING A NEW HIRE AT POCHI?

HOW IT ALL STARTED: THE ORIGIN STORIES

WORK RELATIONSHIPS & HOW TO NAVIGATE THEM

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Welcome back to another episode of Pochi Bubble Tea’s Spill the Tea Podcast!

On today’s episode, hosts Megan, Sai, Ralph, and Malyn play a classic game of “Would you rather?”, and challenge themselves as they choose between some difficult topics. With questions about morals, death, injuries, superpowers, and of course a few disgusting choices as well, join our hosts as they determine what they’re willing to overcome and endure with their decisions. Of course, for any one listening, feel free to follow along and see if your answers match up to our hosts’!

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Decisions, Decisions!

Going into the game, our hosts knew that the questions wouldn’t EXACTLY be the most forgiving, and sacrifices were definitely going to be made! Here’s a few of the questions that our hosts must decide between:

• Would you rather have to magically flip genders every year or have to move and start over in a new place every year?

• MAJORITY VOTE: have to move and start over in a new place every year

• Would you rather have everyone know how much is in your bank account or have everyone see your lovey dovey text messages?

• MAJORITY VOTE: have everyone see your lovey dovey text messages

• Would you rather spend the rest of your life always cold or always exhausted?

• MAJORITY VOTE: always cold

• Would you rather be the first person on mars on a one way trip or never get the chance to go to space?

• MAJORITY VOTE: never get the chance to go to space

• Would you rather run into your ex at the club or run into your parents at the club?

• MAJORITY VOTE: run into your ex at the club

• Would you rather cuddle with a giant slug or a giant spider?

• MAJORITY VOTE: giant slug

• Would you rather live until you’re 200 years old while looking 200 years old the whole time or look 25 years old until you die at age 65?

• MAJORITY VOTE: looking 25 until you die at age 65

• Would you rather be stabbed in the stomach 10 times or shot in both knee caps?

• MAJORITY VOTE: stabbed in the stomach 10 times

• Would you rather spend the night in a haunted hotel or spend the night in an insane asylum?

• MAJORITY VOTE: night in an insane asylum

• Would you rather never wash your bed sheets again or only be able to shower every 2 weeks?

• MAJORITY VOTE: never wash your bed sheets again

• Would you rather trip in front of a crowd on the dance floor or rip your dress in front of a crowd?

• MAJORITY VOTE: trip in front of a crowd on the dance floor

• Would you rather have uncontrollable nose hair or uncontrollable ear hair?

• MAJORITY VOTE: uncontrollable nose hair

• Would you rather read minds or be able to become invisible?

• MAJORITY VOTE: read minds

Do you agree with all of our hosts' decisions? We know it was not an easy choice for any of the questions! Comment down below how you would have answered these questions!

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RELATED LINKS:

FRIENDSHIPS AS YOUNG ADULTS

AM I THE A**HOLE?!

WHO IS THE MOLE? & POCHI MEMORIES

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On this episode of Spill the Tea…

Welcome back to another episode of Spill the Tea! In today’s episode, we’re bringing back another round of “Who is the Mole?” and introduce a new podcast guest: our Lynnwood Assistant Store Manager Misa! For those that have seen our first installment of “The Mole”, you’d know that the results weren’t exactly what we had planned! But not to worry – in this episode, Ralph, Malyn, Misa, and Sai MAKE SURE that there is an obvious winner (or loser?).

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If you haven’t seen our first episode of “The Mole” or aren’t familiar with the Netflix show we were inspired by, the rules are pretty simple:

• For our version of the game, everyone receives the same flavor of bubble tea with identical toppings. Our drink of choice for this round is our brand new Green Envy Slush with Lychee Jelly – a delicious concoction of Honeydew, Green Apple, and Lychee!

• One of our drinks contains a sneaky, secret ingredient that sets it apart from the rest, and makes it taste, well, not the greatest! In today’s episode, our DELICIOUS ingredients of choice are non-alcoholic gin and lots of salt – YUCK!

• The drinks are swapped around and handed out at random so that everyone can have a fair chance. The person that receives the altered drink is now “The Mole”!

• During the progression of playing “Liar Liar”, our podcast hosts will sip on their drinks as neutrally and inconspicuously as possible.

• Whoever is voted correctly to be “The Mole” at the end of the game loses! If the person with the ~special~ drink fools the rest, then “The Mole” wins!

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“Liar Liar” Rules

Along with playing “Who’s the Mole”, our hosts will also be playing a few rounds of “Liar Liar”! The rules of the game are as follows:

• Each player draws a topic card and a “truth” or “lie” card. 

• For each round, each player will tell a truth or lie based on the contents of the topic card. For example, in this episode, Sai draws a topic card with the words “Limousine”, “Fun”, and “Celebration”, and as a response says that she’s been on a limousine four times in her life. 

• Although the rest of our hosts are not sure if she drew a “truth” or “lie” card with her topic card, they must vote on whether she is lying or telling the truth! If they guess wrong, Sai wins the point! 

• The first player to twenty one points is the winner!

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If you want to play along with your friends, make sure to check out “Liar Liar” on our Amazon storefront!

Liar Liar: The Game of Truths and Lies

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Win or Lose?

Although the outcome of “Liar Liar” may have one distinct winner, let’s not forget about the other competition at hand. As our hosts conclude their card game, they must now vote on who they believe is “The Mole”! Ralph, Malyn, Misa, and Sai have all been studying each other closely during their game, and even point out their suspicions of one another throughout! Of course, we wouldn’t want to spoil the fun! Make sure to check out our latest podcast episode to find out who “The Mole” ends up being! Did you guess correctly? Comment below!

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Welcome to Spill the Tea, the podcast by Pochi Bubble Tea!

In this episode, we will be talking about a topic that is near and dear to many of our hearts - making and maintaining friends as a young adult. Hosts Megan and Sai will share their personal history of friendship and discuss the challenges they faced as they navigated the ups and downs of friendship in their early twenties. They'll also offer tips on where to make friends and how to create meaningful and valuable friendships that will last. 

Whether you're starting college, moving to a new city, or simply looking to expand your social circle, this episode is for you. Megan and Sai will discuss the importance of finding common interests, being vulnerable, and putting in the effort to maintain relationships. So sit back, relax, and get ready to spill the tea on all things friendship. We hope you enjoy this episode of Spill the Tea by Pochi Bubble Tea.

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The History of Our Hosts 

To kick off this episode all about friendship, Megan and Sai delve into the history of their own friendship, and how our two hosts came together in the first place. Although they first meet at Pochi Bubble Tea, it isn’t until they pursue another job together and find common struggles in their new position that they find their friendship begins to blossom. As they manage to find their way back together (AGAIN) through their pursuit of marketing positions at Pochi Bubble Tea, the rest is history and you can always find these two side-by-side. 

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The Reality of Meeting Friends

Whether it be through school or work, Megan and Sai share how they have managed to make and maintain friendships as young adults in their twenties, and how things aren’t as easy as it may seem. They’ve come to discover that the places they spend their time the most are the most promising environments to potentially make friends, and they both share how these friendships can often be based off of a common struggle. As they spend the majority of their days with their coworkers, Megan and Sai have come to find comfort and close friendship with their coworkers, and how a strong team environment correlates to the fostering of these relationships. 

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The Value of Friendship

Having a lot of friends may seem like something to aspire to, but from Megan and Sai’s experience, having a tight-knit, smaller friendship circle has been key to meaningful relationships. Rather than having a bunch of surface level friendships, our hosts have come to realize that quantity does not always equal quality, and how prioritizing the people that will add the most value and positivity to your life are the ones worth keeping.

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RELATED LINKS:

GIFT ETIQUETTE IN RELATIONSHIPS

DATING DO’S & DON’TS, FRIENDZONES, & FRIENDSHIPS

GEN Z VERSUS MILLENIALS

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We all know the saying – April showers bring May flowers! This May, as we approach nature’s full bloom and an abundance of sunshine, we can’t forget to acknowledge one of the most special people in our lives – our mothers! Marking your calendars for May 14th just isn’t going to cut it, and it’s time to do a bit of planning for the women that matter the most to us. Whether it be your own mother, the mother of your children, or any other women in your life that has taken on the role of motherhood, Mother’s Day is the perfect opportunity to show the women in your life just how much you care! 

From the day you were born to every milestone of your life, mothers always have your back and show unwavering love for you! As the backbone of our families, their contributions to our lives are immeasurable. A lifelong job that allows for little selfishness, motherhood is a role that requires a lot of patience, dedication, and hard work. Mothers often have to juggle multiple responsibilities, including work, childcare, and household chores. It is important to recognize and appreciate all the hard work that goes into being a mother, and we’ve put together the perfect list that will guide you in the right direction when it comes to showing the mothers in your life just how much you cherish them. 

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Pamper, Pamper, Pamper!

With all their responsibilities and little time for relaxation, it’s important to make sure Mom feels the same comfort she’s provided for you your entire life. Try setting up a spa day for Mom, and perform the services like facials, massages, or foot rubs yourself! Pick out movies that you both love and grab some snacks for a movie marathon! Sometimes all you need is a quiet night in, and our picks are sure to make her smile. From fluffy throw blankets, aesthetic oil diffusers, to cozy slippers to wear around the house, check out our current favorites:

Sage Lavender Candle

Cozy Socks

Aesthetic Diffuser

Lounge Slippers

Throw Blanket

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Spice Up Her Kitchen

There’s nothing like a home-cooked meal from Mom, and let’s face it, spending time in the kitchen can be a lot of work! This year, why not switch the roles around! Cook Mom her favorite meal and treat her to an at-home fancy dinner! Try picking a new recipe that you two can try out, and may even discover a new favorite! For this Mother’s Day, consider spicing up her space by elevating her dish ware, investing in cute pots and pans, or even buying fun cookbooks that you two can enjoy:

Vintage Coffee Mugs

Cast Iron Pot

Italian Dessert Cookbook

Ramen For Beginners

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Accessorize her! 

Let’s face it, no one can resist a beautiful new addition to their jewelry or accessory collection! Whether it be a delicate necklace of your choice or an adorable new charm for her handbag, Mom won’t be able to resist after seeing what you have picked out: 

Initial Necklace

Twisted Hoop Earrings

Flower Handbag Charm

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Write it down!

Although physical gifts can be nice, the most thoughtful gifts are sometimes the ones that are the simplest! Letting your mom know just how much she means to you through a card or letter can elevate her day to the fullest! If you want to get even more creative, check out our keepsake picks that are sure to have tears of joy forming at her eyes:

“What I Love About You” Fill-In Book

“Mom! I Love You Because…” Fill-In Book

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Try A New Experience Together

Treating Mom to an experience rather than getting a physical gift can be an amazing present, and allows for memories to be made that you can look back on down the line. Here are some of our top suggestions that you can experience right here in Seattle:

• Try an escape room at Reality Break Escapes in Bellevue

• Go wine tasting in Woodinville’s wine country

• Take family pictures at the Arboretum in Seattle

• Visit Portage Bay Cafe for brunch

• Take a bike ride around Juanita Beach Park

• Grab fresh flowers at Pike Place Market

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On this episode of Spill the Tea, we have an extra special guest with us! We are lucky to introduce you to one of our greatest assets, Artiel! Artiel (previously known as Glency) is our Kirkland store manager and has been with Pochi for many years. On today’s podcast, we will learn about how he was brought onto the team and how he worked his way up! With a connection to Malyn, Arthur and Ralph before they took over Pochi, Artiel shares both stories from his past and hopes for the future. Throughout the episode, you will learn how much he cares for his team and the business he works so closely with. 

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Becoming Me - Artiel Castillo

Going back to Artiel’s very first interview with Pochi, he shares the nerves he experienced and walks us through his thought process. Now as an interviewer for Pochi, he reflects on how far he has come with switching his mindset for how he presents himself to others. Understanding himself as a person instead of living for satisfying others is something that Artiel has learned along his journey. He shares with us how he has become comfortable with being authentic and true to himself rather than striving for others to accept him. With his goal to run a store himself, Artiel tells us he wishes he had taken the time to appreciate the journey so that accomplishing his goals would have felt more fruitful. 

Along the lines of enjoying the journey, we hear everyone chime in on their personal experiences that have changed their perspectives on life. Things may not always come naturally, but persistence and hard work is what gets people closest to their goals, Ralph shares. As Artiel opens up about his mental state, he shares with us his journey of growth and how he focused on his strengths in order to push through times of doubt and challenges. 

Try Artiel’s favorite drink: Passionfruit Green Tea!

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“Try to find the yes instead of focusing on the no’s”

— Artiel

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Growth as a Journey 

As the episode concludes, Artiel tells us how his perspectives have changed and how his intentions have become more clear to him. Taking a trip down memory lane, Artiel is able to spot every lesson he has learned and dissect what happened at that point in his life. Now that he has grown from mistakes and has learned to overcome the, he tells us, “What I am focusing on right now is enjoying the process and enjoying the moment.”

Artiel has now gotten to a point where he gives without expecting anything in return. Earning the opportunity to train not only new employees, but future managers for new store locations, Artiel looks forward to sharing his knowledge and wishes to pass down his experiences with the next generation of team members. With his developed abilities and trustworthiness, Malyn, Ralph, and Arthur express how proud they are to have watched him grow. 

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OTHER LINKS:

BUILDING COMMUNITY & STORYTELLING W/ TEENA THACH

EMBRACING YOUR STRUGGLE STORY W/ BENJI TRAVIS

DOING WHAT YOU LOVE W/ VANESSA RONQUILLO

DANCING THROUGH THE WORLD W/ YOSHI WRIGHT

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From the root of every business there's a story! From the feelings we want people to feel to the colors that make up our palette, branding is crucial to a business. Building an identity for our store has been a process that is never ending. Making you and every person feel welcomed to our stores has been the forefront of our brand. As we add our insight on branding we also discuss how far we have come with our  journey and what big plans we have in store. Grab your tea and join us as we talk about branding on today's episode!

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TUNE IN ON YOUTUBE | APPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFY

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“Branding talks about ‘the identity and story of a company’”

— Malyn

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Pochi’s Branding Journey

As we unfold the inner workings of brand development we take a trip down memory lane. Malyn tells us what we've changed and what we've kept throughout our development of Pochi. During the early days of takeover, we were dealing with a more “grunge” aesthetic where friends could all meet up and have a great time! Throughout the years we have added a modern twist while still emphasizing the idea of a gathering spot. We also discuss what our brand currently stands for and how we reflect that through our ability to welcome everyone. 

Diving into the small details that make up our brand, Ralph discusses our Logo! As many of you may already know, our logo is a dog. “Pochi” is a very popular dog name in Japan and, as Ralph explains, we wanted to capture the essence of the meaning through a representative graphic. Throughout our rebranding journey, lots of thought went into how the logo was going to be perceived and what it essentially stood for. Ralph goes into detail about what inspired our brand logo and how we use it to welcome our customers!

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BEFORE

AFTER

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“For marketing its main purpose is to really sell and attract customers, – branding is more of making an iconic presence that people are not going to forget.”

— Megan

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What Makes a Brand Appealing

What does it take to be a leader? A good vision and direction as Malyn shares with us. A brand that is worth following is a brand with good intention and attention to detail. Thinking of well known and successful brands, we further discuss how they attract so many consumers. Topics such as quality, aesthetic, and reliability are a few of the many aspects that make up our idea of a brand or company. On another note, we also discuss different strategies a business might take in order to optimize differentiation and remain unique! As far as our Band, we’ve always tried hard to represent the image we created for ourselves. By staying true to who we say we are has helped us gain extreme amounts of customer loyalty and connections that go far beyond the workplace. 

The route we've decided to take as a brand is family oriented. We try our hardest to develop connections within our community and grow close within our team. Many of you who have been customers may have picked up on our aesthetic and our brand composition. For those who are curious to what route we take as a bubble tea shop keep listening! We emphasize a stable and comfortable approach that includes people of all ages. We look forward to seeing you soon and hope you enjoyed learning a bit more about us!

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OTHER RELATED LINKS:

HOW IT ALL STARTED, THE ORIGIN STORIES

WHO IS THE MOLE? & POCHI MEMORIES

NOT-SO-SECRET INTERVIEW TIPS AND TRICKS

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