Summary of Episode: Shenseea – "You got to chat some Patois real soon"

The Really Good Podcast with Bobbi Althoff
Release Date: October 3, 2024
Host: Bobbi Althoff
Guest: Shenseea (Shenzia)

Introduction

In this vibrant episode of The Really Good Podcast, host Bobbi Althoff welcomes Jamaican superstar Shenseea, affectionately known as Shen, to discuss her life, career, and the rich cultural tapestry of Jamaica. As Bobbi's first visit to Jamaica sets the stage for an engaging conversation, listeners are treated to an authentic glimpse into Shenseea's world.

Personal Life: Family and Single Motherhood

Shenseea opens up about her family dynamics and experiences as a single mother. She expresses deep love for her son, highlighting the joys and challenges of single parenthood.

Notable Quote:

Shenseea [09:14]: "My son is so wholesome. Yeah, he's very entertaining. He's amazing. Everybody loves him."

Shenseea shares insights into her upbringing, mentioning her Korean father, whom she never met, and her Jamaican mother who has passed away. She emphasizes the strong familial bonds that have shaped her values, particularly her belief in lasting relationships and her stance against divorce.

Notable Quote:

Shenseea [16:13]: "I'm really committed to you my whole life, to God and you, you know. Anything that pops up after that. No divorce. No."

Career Goals and Achievements

Shenseea discusses her aspirations within the music industry, revealing her long-held dream of winning a Grammy and achieving a diamond record. She reflects on her recent theater tour and upcoming arena tour with Jhené Aiko, demonstrating her dedication to expanding her musical footprint.

Notable Quote:

Shenseea [23:33]: "A Grammy is up next. And, you know, I'd like to have a diamond record, too."

Shenseea's passion for her craft is evident as she recounts her performances and the excitement of collaborating with other artists. She also touches on her busy schedule, balancing performances, studio time, and family responsibilities.

Life in Jamaica vs. LA and Miami

The conversation shifts to Shenseea's current residence in Jamaica and her previous stints in Los Angeles and Miami. She contrasts the vibrant, hospitable atmosphere of Jamaica with the often-stressful environment of LA. Bobbi shares her own experiences in LA, highlighting the differences in lifestyle and the challenges of adjusting to a new culture.

Notable Quote:

Shenseea [05:24]: "They're very professional, I must say."

Shenseea extols the beauty of Jamaica, particularly its beaches and clear waters, making it her favorite place on Earth. She also jokes about introducing Bobbi to Jamaican customs and attire, adding a humorous touch to their interaction.

Notable Quote:

Shenseea [60:20]: "We're gonna speak patois today, so starting from now. Yeah. We're gonna have lessons."

Cultural Insights: Patois and Jamaican Customs

A significant portion of the episode delves into Jamaican culture, with Shenseea offering Bobbi lessons in Patois, the local dialect. They discuss traditional practices, such as using white rum to ward off bad spirits, and the unique culinary delights of Jamaica, including jerk chicken and local seafood.

Notable Quote:

Shenseea [20:07]: "You can run spirits with it, too."

Shenseea's enthusiasm for her heritage is infectious as she shares her favorite Jamaican foods and the importance of maintaining cultural authenticity. The duo even attempts to speak Patois together, adding an interactive and lighthearted element to the conversation.

Notable Quote:

Shenseea [60:38]: "We're doing everything together today."

Personal Reflections and Discussions

The dialogue transitions into more personal territory, where both Bobbi and Shenseea candidly discuss topics like aging, relationships, and personal growth. Shenseea reveals her desire to remain single for the time being, focusing on her career and personal well-being.

Notable Quote:

Shenseea [41:06]: "I'm better with that right now."

They also touch upon the misconceptions and stereotypes in the entertainment industry, particularly regarding assumptions about personal relationships. Shenseea emphasizes her commitment to loyalty and authenticity, while Bobbi shares her experiences and challenges as a single mother navigating her career.

Notable Quote:

Shenseea [58:12]: "I always want to focus on myself."

Plans and Future Adventures

As the episode progresses, Shenseea outlines her upcoming plans, including performing in Kenya and Haiti over the Christmas season and preparing for a performance in Bali. She expresses excitement about balancing her roles as a mother and a performer, showcasing her ability to juggle multiple responsibilities seamlessly.

Notable Quote:

Shenseea [63:34]: "I'm living my best life this year. It's my best year yet."

Bobbi contemplates taking her children to Jamaica for Christmas, inspired by Shenseea's glowing descriptions of the island's hospitality and beauty. Their shared aspirations for personal and professional fulfillment set an inspiring tone for listeners.

Conclusion

This episode of The Really Good Podcast offers an intimate and multifaceted look into Shenseea's life, blending personal anecdotes with cultural education. Bobbi Althoff skillfully navigates the conversation, ensuring that listeners gain valuable insights into Shenseea's world while maintaining an engaging and entertaining atmosphere.

Notable Quote:

Shenseea [71:25]: "We're not gonna finish it on camera, are we? Because I can't."

As they wrap up, Shenseea and Bobbi share a lighthearted moment about embracing vulnerability and enjoying life's moments, leaving listeners with a sense of connection and inspiration.

Notable Highlights with Quotes

• Makeup Routine:
  Shenseea [00:35]: "I always do my own makeup recently because I figured that, you know, especially when I have a video shoot..."

• Belief in Fame and Status:
  Shenseea [07:03]: "It's as long as I'm a good person inside and out, that's what makes me feel whole."

• Desire for Authentic Relationships:
  Shenseea [41:23]: "I'm not in a committed relationship at all. If I am, I'm super faithful."

• Cultural Pride:
  Shenseea [27:07]: "Jamaican food is the best food on the world."

• Career Aspirations:
  Shenseea [23:55]: "A Grammy is up next."

Final Thoughts

Shenseea's openness about her personal life, combined with her vibrant discussions on culture and career, make this episode a standout. Bobbi Althoff's genuine curiosity and engaging interviewing style complement Shenseea's charismatic personality, resulting in a compelling and heartfelt conversation that resonates with a diverse audience.

Listeners gain not only an understanding of Shenseea's journey but also a deeper appreciation for Jamaican culture and the universal challenges of balancing personal life with professional ambitions. This episode exemplifies the essence of The Really Good Podcast—authentic, engaging, and truly good.