Podcast Summary: Just Trish – Episode Featuring AJ McLean
Podcast Information:
- Title: Just Trish
- Host: Trisha Paytas
- Co-Host: Oscar Gracey
- Guest: AJ McLean (Backstreet Boys)
- Episode Title: AJ McLean
- Release Date: June 5, 2025
Introduction to the Episode
In this engaging episode of Just Trish, Trisha Paytas welcomes AJ McLean from the iconic pop group Backstreet Boys. The conversation delves into AJ's personal journey, the band's recent endeavors, and his ventures beyond music. The episode offers a candid and heartfelt discussion, underscored by humorous anecdotes and insightful reflections.
Meeting AJ McLean and Early Memories
Trisha reminisces about her first encounter with AJ, highlighting a cherished memory from a Criss Angel show in Las Vegas.
- Trish (02:11): "I was just going to ask. What's your mental illness?"
- AJ (02:19): "Piece of Ism is my... That's my only thing going on."
They exchange warmth, recalling how AJ greeted her and her mother, cementing a memorable first meeting.
Mental Health and Sobriety
AJ opens up about his struggles with mental health and addiction, emphasizing his journey toward sobriety.
- AJ (03:13): "I was not in the best head space. I was not sober during the entire run. Now, coming up on almost four years sober."
- Trish (10:03): "That's wild because you've gone to rehab three times and you've had outpatient mental health."
He discusses attending an intensive outpatient program at The Meadows in Scottsdale, Arizona, focusing on sex and relationship addiction. AJ credits motivational speakers like Brené Brown for inspiring his path to healing.
- AJ (20:12): "It's the age-old saying, if you can't love yourself, you can't love somebody else."
Backstreet Boys' Residency at Sphere Las Vegas
The conversation shifts to the Backstreet Boys' groundbreaking residency at Sphere Las Vegas, the world's premier residency venue.
- AJ (05:15): "We're the first pop band in there, the first artist, technically."
- Trish (07:23): "It's a complete experience that's gonna be insane."
They discuss the venue's advanced technology, including 166,000 speakers and haptic seats that vibrate and move, creating an immersive concert experience. AJ teases about exclusive content and a special celebration for the 25th anniversary of their album Millennium.
- AJ (07:36): "It's going to commemorate the 25th anniversary of our biggest album, Millennium."
Personal Life and Parenting
AJ shares insights into his role as a father, balancing fame with parenting young daughters.
- Trish (26:05): "How do you deal with that? Being a girl dad is so different."
- AJ (26:16): "I have 12 and 8, both going on 35... I'm a big fan of ginger ale."
He humorously recounts hosting a party for his daughter, complete with sneakers and toys, earning him the title of "cool dad."
- AJ (57:36): "We have the same body shape... She's already talking about possibly doing it because she's having a tough time."
Entrepreneurial Ventures and Creative Projects
AJ discusses his entrepreneurial spirit, particularly his foray into the beauty industry with his line Ava Dean, aimed at creating makeup products suitable for children.
- AJ (61:41): "We have lip gloss. We have body spray. We have body scrubs."
- Trish (63:08): "I'm so excited to start this makeup line."
He emphasizes the importance of safe, kid-friendly products, drawing from his own family's experiences with makeup.
Experience on Netflix's Celebrity Drag Race
AJ recounts his experience hosting Building the Band, a Netflix competition show featuring industry heavyweights like Nicole Scherzinger and the late Liam Payne.
- AJ (30:40): "It's a competition show called Building the Band... It's a clever way for bands to come together."
- Trish (38:04): "Do you want to sing on the spot?"
He humorously details his drag performances, including challenges like wearing multiple layers to accommodate heavy prosthetics.
- AJ (39:12): "I did Drag Race... I had to explain to my kids about my drag persona."
Social Media and Personal Branding
AJ touches on his evolving relationship with social media, prioritizing meaningful interactions over trend-following content.
- AJ (51:20): "I'm an ambassador for At Peak... 10 million views."
- Trish (51:50): "I think you should definitely."
He highlights successful TikTok collaborations, including viral recreations of popular scenes and promotional content for his mocktail company.
Health and Wellness
The discussion also covers AJ's proactive approach to health, including hair transplants and cosmetic procedures to maintain his appearance.
- AJ (34:28): "I've done this procedure twice... Absolutely recommend."
- Trish (35:26): "I think it looks cool."
He candidly talks about his struggles with smoking and his plans to quit as part of his ongoing sobriety journey.
- AJ (10:03): "I'm planning on quitting. It's the last vice I have."
Final Reflections and Future Endeavors
As the episode draws to a close, Trish and AJ exchange heartfelt sentiments, celebrating their friendship and looking forward to future collaborations.
- Trish (67:58): "Besties for life."
- AJ (68:03): "We'll see you guys. July 11th, kick off."
AJ shares his excitement for upcoming projects, including a solo EP release and further involvement in the beauty and LGBTQ+ communities.
Notable Quotes:
- AJ McLean (03:13): "I can't blame geography. It's... I was just not in the right mental space."
- Trish Paytas (10:03): "That's wild because you've gone to rehab three times and you've had outpatient mental health."
- AJ McLean (07:36): "You will hear the entire Millennium album in the show. Wow."
- AJ McLean (20:12): "It takes care of your kids, your wife, your husband, your family... you need to take care of yourself first."
- Trish Paytas (67:58): "Besties for life."
Conclusion
This episode of Just Trish offers an intimate glimpse into AJ McLean's life, from his personal battles and triumphs to his creative ventures and family dynamics. Trisha Paytas facilitates a conversation that is both entertaining and deeply personal, providing listeners with valuable insights into the life of a beloved pop star. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to AJ's story, this episode delivers an engaging and heartfelt narrative that resonates on multiple levels.
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