Wambui Bahati takes listeners on a delightful trip down memory lane, reminiscing about the charm of having a milkman deliver fresh milk right to her front porch—or, as she humorously clarifies, her “stoop.” She paints a vivid picture of her childhood in Greensboro, North Carolina, where a heavy silver box served as the designated spot for those glorious glass bottles of milk. Wambui fondly recalls the elusive Mr. Tonkins, the milkman, who she barely saw but whose presence was felt through those early morning deliveries. As she shares these nostalgic tales, she reflects on the simple joys of family life, the significance of community, and even touches on the social backdrop of the 1950s. It’s a heartwarming episode filled with laughter, warmth, and a sprinkle of history that invites listeners to consider their own memories of milk deliveries and the special moments they hold.

Notes:

Wambui Bahati takes listeners on a delightful trip down memory lane, transporting them back to the 1950s in Greensboro, North Carolina. He fondly reminisces about his childhood experiences, particularly the anticipation of the morning milk delivery. With a charmingly nostalgic tone, she paints a vivid picture of a time when milk was delivered in sturdy glass bottles, safely housed in a silver box on his family's stoop. This wasn't just any stoop, mind you; it was a compact slab that his mother lovingly referred to as a stoop, not a porch, which adds a touch of wit to his storytelling. Wambui describes the milkman, Mr. Tonkins, who may have been a phantom figure in his life, seen only a handful of times, yet his presence loomed large in the memories of those early mornings filled with the promise of fresh milk. The episode humorously explores the unique practices of milk delivery, including how families would recycle bottles, offering a glimpse into the community-centric lifestyle of the era. Through Wambui's engaging narrative, listeners not only get a taste of the past but also a reflection on how such simple routines have faded into history, making way for modern conveniences. He invites the audience to ponder, with a playful smile, whether any of them still have the luxury of a milkman delivering to their door.

Takeaways:

• Wambui Bahati reminisces about the charm of milk delivery in the 1950s, highlighting how milkmen left fresh glass bottles right at the doorstep.
• The silver box on Wambui's stoop was a sturdy delivery method that kept milk cold and fresh, showcasing the era's simple yet effective solutions.
• She fondly remembers her milkman, Mr. Tonkins, who was more of a mysterious figure due to his early morning deliveries and infrequent sightings.
• Wambui shares a humorous take on her family's stoop versus a porch debate, emphasizing the unique quirks of Southern homes in the 1950s.
• The podcast touches on the nostalgic vibe of childhood, illustrating how everyday deliveries like milk shaped community connections back then.
• As refrigeration technology evolved, the traditional milkman faded away, but Wambui cherishes the memories of glass bottles and the joy they brought.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Charles potato chips

Summary:

Wambui kicks things off with a wild story about waking up to smoke billowing from her iPhone and a charred charging cable one Sunday morning. Talk about a shocking wake-up call! As she dives into her tale, she reflects on her nighttime habit of charging her phone near the bed, thinking she was being clever and safe. But as the smoke danced around her phone, she realized that her setup might not have been the smartest idea after all. With a mix of humor and gratitude, she shares how this little disaster turned into a moment of reflection on technology, safety, and the unexpected blessings of life. Tune in for laughs, lessons learned, and a reminder that sometimes, waking up just in time can save the day!

YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/GrEcDapjNZs

Show Notes:

Wambui's captivating tale unfolds with a blend of humor and life lessons, as she recounts a rather alarming experience with her iPhone that began one fateful Sunday morning. It all started when she woke up to find her phone enveloped in smoke, smoke that could only mean one thing – trouble! She dives into the story of her nightly ritual of charging her phone, a habit she thought was harmless. With a long charging cable that she would toss to the foot of her bed, she felt secure; after all, keeping the phone away from her head was her way of avoiding those pesky radiation rays. However, on this day, the alarm she relied on failed to ring, and she was jolted awake by something much more urgent: her phone was smoking! Wambui’s recounting of her frantic attempts to cool down the phone and yank out the burnt cable is filled with vivid imagery and relatable panic.

But this story isn't just about a technological mishap; it unfolds into a broader narrative about perspective and gratitude. Wambui reflects on how something as trivial as a phone can lead to deeper thoughts about life, safety, and the importance of being mindful with technology. She humorously shares her misadventures at the Apple store, where she encountered a variety of characters, including a fellow customer engrossed in her tech woes. The way Wambui contrasts her experience with the older lady who seemed flustered by technology adds a layer of warmth and humor to her story. Rather than focusing on the stress of potentially losing her phone, Wambui finds herself grateful for waking up just in time to prevent a disaster, ultimately transforming what could have been a nightmare into a light-hearted reflection on life’s unexpected twists.

As the episode wraps up, Wambui leaves listeners with a profound sense of gratitude, showcasing how a morning of panic can lead to a day of reflection and appreciation for the smaller joys in life. It’s a delightful mix of storytelling and insight, inviting listeners to consider their own relationships with technology and the little moments that make life so precious.

Takeaways:

• Wambui shares a shocking morning story about discovering smoke from her iPhone, which definitely wasn't a typical wake-up call!
• She humorously reflects on her habit of charging her phone overnight, thinking it was safe until disaster struck.
• The episode highlights the importance of being aware of charging devices, as her non-Apple cable caused quite the scare!
• Wambui emphasizes gratitude for waking up just in time to prevent a potential fire, turning a scary moment into a lesson.
• Her visit to the Apple store showcases the generational tech gap, filled with playful observations and relatable humor.
• Ultimately, Wambui's experience reminds us to appreciate the little things in life, like being safe and learning from technology mishaps.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Apple
• Amazon

Wambui takes a heartfelt trip down memory lane as she recalls the moment that changed history: the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. On that fateful day in 1963, she was just a 13-year-old seventh grader at Lincoln Junior High in Greensboro, North Carolina, blissfully unaware of the political storm brewing around her. Her youthful innocence is palpable as she shares how, like many, she believed the president would recover from the shocking news that he had been shot. However, as the day unfolded, the grim reality set in, and the weight of his death hit hard just as school was letting out, sending students home in a state of disbelief. Wambui reflects on the surreal events that followed, from the live television coverage of Lee Harvey Oswald’s arrest to the funeral that united a nation in grief, painting a vivid picture of a pivotal moment in American history. Her story is not just a recollection of events, but also an exploration of how such a tragedy impacted her and those around her, reminding us all of the profound effects of loss and the power of memory.

YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/fdfjcMnG7Ho

Show Notes:

In a captivating podcast episode, Wambui reflects on the haunting memories of the day President John F. Kennedy was assassinated, transporting listeners back to that pivotal moment in American history. It was November 22, 1963, a Friday that began with youthful anticipation at Lincoln Junior High School in Greensboro, North Carolina. Wambui recalls the excitement of the upcoming Thanksgiving break, a time filled with joy and celebration, abruptly shattered by the shocking announcement over the PA system: the President had been shot. Her youthful perspective provides a unique lens through which we see the unfolding tragedy, as her classmates grappled with the news, unsure of what it all meant for their futures.

As Wambui narrates her experience, she intertwines her personal reflections with broader societal implications, illustrating how JFK’s assassination resonated deeply within her community. She shares her impressions of Kennedy as a figure of hope and change, especially regarding civil rights – a topic that was beginning to gain momentum in America. Wambui’s storytelling is rich with emotion, as she describes the collective shock and confusion shared by her and her peers, who initially clung to the hope that their President would survive this attack. However, as the tragic news of his death spread, the reality of loss began to sink in, marking a profound moment that would forever alter the fabric of American society.

Wambui’s narrative takes a dramatic turn as she recounts the live television coverage of Lee Harvey Oswald’s murder, an event that unfolded right before their eyes, adding to the surreal atmosphere of the weekend. This episode is not just a personal recollection; it's a historical exploration of a traumatic event that shaped a generation. Wambui emphasizes the lack of support systems in schools for processing grief and trauma, highlighting a missed opportunity for young people to discuss their feelings and experiences. Through her vivid recollections, Wambui invites listeners to reflect on the importance of understanding history, acknowledging collective grief, and the profound impact that such events can have on individual lives.

Takeaways:

• Wambui recalls her reaction as a 13-year-old to JFK's assassination, reflecting on the innocence of youth during such a tragic event.
• The day JFK was shot started off as a typical Friday, filled with excitement for the upcoming Thanksgiving break, showing how quickly life can change.
• She highlights how the news of JFK's death was surreal, emphasizing the shock and disbelief felt by her and her classmates that day.
• Wambui describes the profound impact of the assassination on the nation, illustrating a collective mourning that transcended age and background.
• The episode touches on the societal changes of the time, particularly regarding civil rights, and how JFK was viewed as a pivotal figure for progress.
• Wambui shares a poignant memory of watching JFK's funeral on TV, noting the emotional weight of seeing young John F. Kennedy Jr. salute his father's casket.

Summary:

Wambui shares a delightful tale that her mother used to tell her and her siblings, bringing a nostalgic touch to the podcast. The story revolves around Sammy, a boy with an incredibly quirky name, Sammy-Sammy-the-Hoo-Bone-the-Po-Bone-Sammy. He faces a classic dilemma when he decides to skip Sunday school to go fishing instead, leading to a series of humorous misadventures. As Sammy attempts to hide his fishing escapades from his parents, he ends up with a talking fish that adds a twist to his day. Through laughter and a sprinkle of mischief, the tale imparts a valuable lesson about responsibility and the importance of keeping promises, especially when it comes to family values. Wambui’s storytelling captures the essence of childhood wonder, reminding listeners of the magical stories that shape our early years.

Show Notes:

Wambui shares a heartwarming tale from her childhood, a vibrant story her mother used to narrate to her and her siblings. This particular story revolves around a boy named Sammy, who, despite the charmingly ridiculous name of 'Sammy-Sammy-the-Hoo-Bone-the-Po-Bone-Sammy', embarks on a humorous yet enlightening adventure. While his parents encourage him to attend Sunday school, Sammy decides that fishing sounds like a much more fun way to spend his Sunday morning. Sneaking off to the lake with a fishing rod cleverly hidden, he encounters a talking fish who becomes the highlight of his escapade. The fish not only engages with Sammy but also ends up in a rather comical twist when Sammy ultimately decides to cook and eat it. As the story unfolds, it takes a whimsical turn when the fish, while in Sammy's stomach, decides it wants to return to the lake, leading to an unexpected and hilarious resolution. This anecdote is more than just a funny tale; it emphasizes themes of honesty, the importance of education, and the consequences of skipping responsibilities. Wambui’s retelling, filled with her mother’s playful storytelling style, invites listeners to reminisce about their own childhood tales while imparting valuable life lessons.

Takeaways:

• Wambui shares a delightful story her mother used to tell, capturing her childhood memories.
• The whimsical tale of Sammy-Sammy-the-Hoo-Bone-the-Po-Bone-Sammy is engagingly told.
• Listeners learn how storytelling can connect generations and preserve family traditions.
• The humorous twist of a talking fish adds a playful element to the story, making it memorable.
• The story emphasizes the importance of honesty, as Sammy confesses to his parents about skipping Sunday school.

Takeaways:

• Wambui fondly remembers her mother's storytelling skills, which captivated her and her siblings during their childhood.
• The story of Sammy, Sammy the Hoo Bone the Po Bone Sammy is a humorous tale about a boy's mischief on a Sunday.
• Sammy decides to skip Sunday school for fishing, leading to a series of funny and unexpected events with a talking fish.
• The playful narrative showcases the importance of honesty and the consequences of skipping responsibilities, especially in a light-hearted manner.
• As Sammy's adventure unfolds, he learns a valuable lesson about truthfulness and commitment to his education in a fun way.
• In the end, Sammy grows up to be a preacher, emphasizing the moral of the story: prioritize your responsibilities, but enjoy a good laugh along the way!

Summary:

Wambui takes listeners on a nostalgic trip down memory lane, spotlighting the once-ubiquitous ashtray and its importance in the 1950s and 1960s. She reminisces about a time when smoking was as common as Sunday brunch, and ashtrays were practically a household essential, gifted to friends and family even if they didn’t smoke themselves. With a playful tone, Wambui shares stories about how smoking was integrated into daily life, from cars equipped with ashtrays to the creative designs of ashtrays that could fit any theme you could imagine. She also dives into the cultural shifts regarding smoking, reflecting on how the norms have drastically changed over the decades, including the surprising endorsements from doctors promoting cigarettes. Her tales are sprinkled with humor and warmth, making the episode an entertaining exploration of a bygone era where cigarettes were not just a habit, but a social staple.

Show Notes:

Wambui takes a delightful stroll down memory lane, reminiscing about the good old days of the 1950s and 1960s, when ashtrays were the must-have accessory in every home. Back then, smoking was as common as apple pie at a bake sale, and everyone seemed to have an ashtray on hand, whether they smoked or not. It was a time when you could light up just about anywhere—restaurants, cars, and even theaters were filled with clouds of smoke. Wambui shares how ashtrays served not just a functional purpose but were often creative gifts that could vary in shape, size, and design, making them the perfect present for any occasion. She fondly remembers the unique artistry that went into crafting these smoking accessories, almost making them collectibles in their own right.

As the conversation unfolds, Wambui dives into the cultural significance of smoking during that era. She illustrates how cigarettes were glamorized through advertisements and Hollywood, with celebrities lighting up without a care in the world, painting a picture of a society that was blissfully unaware of the health risks lurking behind the glamour. She recounts how even doctors endorsed smoking, creating a bizarre juxtaposition of health advice that seems laughable by today's standards. The episode is not just a trip down memory lane; it’s a reflection on how societal norms shift and how what was once considered fashionable can quickly fall out of favor.

Wambui's personal anecdotes add a layer of authenticity to her narrative, as she shares her own experiences growing up in North Carolina, a hub of tobacco production. She recalls her family's traditions, including the use of snuff and chewing tobacco, and even how children would mimic adults by pretending to dip snuff with cocoa. With humor and nostalgia, she captures the essence of a bygone era where ashtrays were symbols of hospitality and social gatherings, leading to a fun and thought-provoking discussion about the evolution of smoking culture.

Takeaways:

• Wambui reminisces about the ashtray's popularity in the 50s and 60s, emphasizing how they were essential gifts for every household, regardless of smoking habits.
• In the past, smoking was an everyday norm—people could light up practically anywhere, from restaurants to cars, showcasing a stark contrast to today's restrictions.
• Wambui shares humorous childhood memories of pretending to dip snuff using cocoa, illustrating how kids mimic adult behaviors in a playful way.
• The podcast explores how cigarette companies actively marketed smoking as glamorous and liberating, especially to women, shifting societal norms around smoking.
• An interesting anecdote reveals how cigarettes were easily accessible to minors, with parents often sending kids to buy them without any age checks—a stark contrast to current regulations.
• Wambui's personal journey reflects the evolution of smoking culture, from casual use to a realization of health risks, culminating in her decision to quit during a performance.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• P. Lorillard Tobacco Company
• Nestle's

Wambui takes listeners on a delightful stroll down memory lane, sharing her cherished experiences of helping her brother with his newspaper route during the golden days of daily newspaper deliveries. Back in the '50s and '60s, when getting your news was as easy as stepping onto your porch, Wambui recalls the thrill of being part of something so integral to their community. She reminisces about the skills needed for the job—like mastering the perfect paper throw and knowing which houses to deliver to (and which to skip!). With a sprinkle of humor, she brings to life the joy of cycling around town and the camaraderie shared between her and her brother. It's a heartwarming reflection on simpler times, where the morning paper was a daily ritual, and the connection to neighbors was palpable, reminding everyone how those days shaped the fabric of their lives.

Show Notes:

Wambui takes a delightful stroll down memory lane as she reminisces about helping her younger brother with his newspaper route back in the golden days of the 1950s and 60s. For her, this was not just a chore—it was an adventure filled with the sweet scent of fresh ink and the thrill of zipping around on bicycles, flinging newspapers with finesse. She paints a vivid picture of a time when newspapers were a staple of daily life, delivered right to the doorstep, and the excitement of receiving the morning news was palpable. Back then, the world was a bit slower, and the ritual of reading the newspaper was something families looked forward to. Wambui fondly remembers the two local newspapers that kept the community informed, one arriving bright and early and the other in the afternoon, a rhythm that gave structure to the day.

As she shares her experiences, Wambui highlights the skills that went into being a successful paper delivery person. It wasn’t just about pedaling down the street; it required a knack for precision when throwing the papers. She chuckles as she recalls the challenges—like ensuring that each paper landed neatly on the porch and didn’t end up in a bush or too far from the door. With a playful tone, she illustrates the joy of those simple moments spent with her brother, the laughter they shared, and the pride she felt in helping him. After all, what could be better than being a part of a team, even if it was just delivering news? Wambui’s stories evoke nostalgia and warmth, reminding listeners of a time when life felt a little more personal and connected, all while emphasizing the importance of family and shared experiences.

The conversation takes a reflective turn as Wambui compares the past to the present. With the rise of technology, the quaint tradition of newspaper delivery has faded into history, making way for instant news at our fingertips. She muses over how, nowadays, one can simply roll over in bed and scroll through the latest headlines, a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of her childhood newspaper route. Yet, she cherishes those days and the memories they hold, seeing them as a vital part of her history that shaped who she is today. Wambui’s heartfelt storytelling not only entertains but also encourages listeners to appreciate the little things in life and to remember the joy of simple moments spent with loved ones.

Takeaways:

• Wambui fondly recalls helping her brother on his newspaper route, cherishing those memories.
• Back in the '50s and '60s, having daily newspapers delivered was a common practice.
• Delivering newspapers required skills like folding papers and accurately throwing them to porches.
• Wambui's joy in delivering papers with her brother ranks just below receiving a new bike.
• The experience of delivering newspapers created a unique bond between Wambui and her brother.
• Wambui reflects on how modern technology has changed the way we receive news today.

Wambui spills the beans on her unforgettable journey as Prissy in a musical adaptation of the classic film "Gone with the Wind." She dives into the chaos of auditioning with a headband to hide her newly blonde hair, which definitely didn't scream "slave" vibes. Despite some disappointments due to copyright restrictions on iconic lines, she shares hilarious anecdotes, including navigating this elaborate production featuring real horses and an unforgettable burning Atlanta scene. Wambui fondly reminisces about her co-stars and the camaraderie among the cast, even pointing out the quirks of a fellow dancer who never wore the same outfit twice! With a dash of nostalgia and a sprinkle of humor, she reflects on her experiences and the impact of the film's legacy, leaving listeners with plenty of laughs and a few thoughtful moments about the shifting perceptions of such a classic.

Show Notes:

Wambui takes listeners on a nostalgic journey back to 1976, sharing her experience of auditioning for the role of Prissy in a musical adaptation of the iconic film 'Gone With The Wind'. Living in New York City at the time, Wambui was eager for her next acting gig when she received a call about this exciting opportunity. Despite her recent decision to go blonde, which she humorously describes as a phase that didn't quite align with the portrayal of a slave character, she cleverly masked her hair with a bandana for the audition. Wambui's infectious excitement is palpable as she recounts her surprise at being cast, especially when she learned that theater legend Pearl Bailey was in the room during her audition. This episode beautifully blends humor and heartfelt storytelling as Wambui shares the highs and lows of the production, including the challenges posed by copyright restrictions that prevented her from delivering some of the film's most famous lines. The journey didn’t stop in Dallas; she also reflects on performances in Atlanta, Kansas City, and Miami Beach, bringing each location to life with vivid anecdotes about the cast, the production, and the unforgettable moments that made each city unique. Wambui's warmth and humor shine throughout, making this episode a delightful listen for theater enthusiasts and casual listeners alike.

Takeaways:

• Wambui shares her unique experience auditioning for the role of Prissy in a musical adaptation of Gone With The Wind, despite her hair being blonde at the time.
• Throughout her audition, Wambui cleverly used a bandana to disguise her hair, which led the casting team to think it was an intentional character choice.
• She recounts the sheer excitement of performing in a grand production with a real horse and elaborate scene effects, like the burning of Atlanta, all while having a blast with her fellow cast members.
• Wambui humorously highlights the disappointment of not being able to deliver iconic lines from the original movie, like Prissy's famous quote about birthing babies, due to copyright restrictions.
• The camaraderie among the cast was palpable, with memorable moments, such as the lead actor David Canary advocating for all cast members to be invited to the opening night party.
• Wambui reflects on the cultural significance of the original film and her respect for the actors who portrayed the characters initially, especially Hattie McDaniel, the first African American to win an Oscar.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Disney
• All My Children
• Gone with the Wind
• Butterfly McQueen
• Hattie McDaniel
• Hello Dolly

Wambui Bahati shares a delightful and humorous journey about how she came to embrace her new name, which means "singer of songs" and "my fortune is good." Born as John Ann Washington, Wambui recounts her mother's quirky predictions that led to her being named after a boy, causing a bit of confusion during her childhood. As she navigated through life, including a stint in the mental health system, Wambui realized it was time for a change—not just in her mindset but in her identity too. With a playful spirit, she embarked on the quest for a name that resonated with her true self, leading to the discovery of "Wambui" and "Bahati." After a charming series of events involving the courthouse and a friendly clerk, she ultimately transformed her name, much to her family’s surprise, proving that sometimes a little change can lead to a whole lot of joy!

____________________

Wambui Bahati's journey isn't just about a name change; it's a vibrant tapestry woven with experiences, challenges, and self-discovery. Born as John Ann Washington in 1950, Wambui recounts the quirky story of how her mother, convinced she would have a son, ended up naming her with a boy's name. This led to years of teasing and a struggle with identity, where young Wambui was often referred to as a girl with a boy's name. However, as Wambui navigated through her formative years and into adulthood, she learned to embrace the uniqueness of her name, even adding a hyphen for flair when joining the theater community.

Fast forward to her late 40s, where life had thrown its fair share of challenges her way, including a label of mental illness that she was determined to shed. With a newfound desire to reinvent herself, Wambui embarked on a quest for a name that resonated with her identity and aspirations. This led her to the beautiful Swahili name 'Wambui', meaning 'singer of songs', and 'Bahati', which translates to 'my fortune is good'. With a sense of humor and resilience, she humorously navigates the bureaucratic maze of changing her name, engaging with clerks and overcoming hurdles, ultimately leading to a triumphant moment when she receives her new birth certificate. Her story is a heartfelt reminder of the power of names and their significance in our lives.

Takeaways:

• Wambui shared a humorous story about her unconventional name, John Ann Washington, and how it came to be.
• Throughout their childhood, she faced teasing for having a boy's name, which made school quite an adventure.
• After years of personal growth and change, Wambui decided to reinvent herself with a new name, Wambui Bahati.
• The process of changing her name turned into an unexpected comedic journey involving a trip to the courthouse.
• Wambui's family had mixed reactions to the name change, with their mother humorously skeptical about the decision.
• Ultimately, the name change symbolizes Wambui's transformation and newfound identity in life.

Wambui dives into a fascinating journey of how one’s relationship with television can shift dramatically over the decades. Starting off as a kid enamored with the magic of TV—where shows like Captain Kangaroo and the Ed Sullivan Show felt like life’s greatest treasures—she reflects on how that childhood wonder faded into skepticism as she reached her senior years. With the wisdom of experience, she shares how her initial trust in the authority of news and entertainment morphed into a growing distrust, ultimately leading her to ditch the TV altogether. This transformation opens up a dialogue about the impact of media on our lives and how stepping away from the screen can lead to a more creative and fulfilling existence. The episode wraps up with a light-hearted encouragement for listeners to consider a temporary TV break and rediscover the joy of life beyond the screen.

Takeaways:

• Wambui reflects on how their childhood love for TV transformed into distrust as they aged, illustrating a journey from admiration to skepticism.
• As a child, she was captivated by iconic shows like Captain Kangaroo and the Ed Sullivan Show, which shaped their early perception of television as an authority.
• The transition from trusting TV news to questioning its truthfulness highlights Wambui's evolving relationship with media as they encountered personal challenges.
• After years of consuming TV, she decided to unplug, leading to newfound creativity and a more peaceful home environment without the constant television noise.
• Wambui's story encourages listeners to consider a TV detox, suggesting that time away from screens can foster creativity and clarity.
• In the end, Wambui humorously questions the necessity of TVs in public spaces like doctor's offices, expressing their discomfort with the pervasive presence of screens.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Sears and Roebuck
• CNN
• YouTube
• Ed Sullivan Show
• Captain Kangaroo
• Romper Room
• Mickey Mouse Club
• Howdy Doody
• The Beatles
• The Supremes
• Jerry Springer

Wambui Bahati takes listeners on a delightful trip down memory lane as she shares her fond recollections of the day QVC was born. She describes the excitement she felt watching the launch, calling it "the best idea since white bread" – and who doesn’t love a good slice of white bread? Wambui reminisces about how QVC showcased beautiful products and served as a lifeline during challenging times in her life, much like the 1-800 psychics who offered a listening ear to those in need. With a mix of nostalgia and humor, she recounts her personal experiences engaging with hosts and feeling a sense of connection that transcended mere shopping. From her heartfelt stories of customer service to the thrill of speaking with motivational giant Tony Robbins on air, Wambui’s tales bring warmth and laughter, reminding everyone of the unexpected joy that can come from a simple late-night shopping channel.

Takeaways:

• Wambui Bahati reminisces about the birth of QVC, calling it the best idea since sliced bread.
• She shares how QVC provided a comforting outlet during tough times in her life, akin to calling a psychic.
• Her childhood play with her daughter involved pretending to host a QVC show, showing their love for the network.
• Wambui fondly recalls her experience calling in to share her product testimonials, feeling connected and valued.
• She expresses gratitude for Tony Robbins' influence on her life, highlighting their memorable on-air conversation.
• In her 70s, she appreciates QVC's inclusive fashion options catering to her age group and style preferences.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• QVC
• 1-800 psychics
• Tony Robbins
• HSN
• Bob Mackie
• Cher