I Pick Passion and Funny

Hosted by Ericka L. Bates

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Jun 2026

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About the show

I Pick Passion and Funny is a podcast hosted by Ericka Bates where she sits down with comedian friends to talk candidly about career, creativity, and life. From navigating creative paths and life pivots to dealing with fear, burnout, money stress, and everyday absurdities, the conversations are honest, funny, and deeply relatable. This season is all about being more intentional; about the work, the conversations, and what it means to truly choose yourself. This isn’t a how-to podcast or a place for perfect answers. It’s a space for real stories, strong opinions, laughter, and figuring things out in real time. Some episodes go deep, some get ridiculous, and most do a little of both. Choosing passion isn’t always easy, but laughing through it makes the journey a lot better.

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42 recent

June 10, 2026Episode 824 min

So…I’m Not Moving to LA (Right Now)

So… remember how I said I was moving to LA?Yeah… that’s not happening in July anymore.In this solo episode of I Pick Passion and Funny, I’m sharing an honest update after things didn’t come together the way I expected behind the scenes. This isn’t a breakdown of logistics or details. It’s a real conversation about what it feels like when a plan you were excited about… doesn’t happen.We talk about:* The emotional side of sharing a big decision publicly and having to pivot* Feeling discouraged, embarrassed, and trying to process it in real time* The reality of still having to move without a clear next step* Navigating the “in-between” when things don’t go as planned* My creative flow feeling off and how life transitions impact that* Rerouting without giving up on the bigger visionI meant everything I said about choosing myself and going after more. That hasn’t changed. The timeline just has.If you’re in a moment where things didn’t work out the way you thought they would… you’re not alone.New episodes of I Pick Passion and Funny drop every Tuesday.

June 5, 2026Episode 729 min

Let’s Talk About Money… and Then This Happened!

I sat down to record an episode about money, my move to LA, and what it really looks like to take a financial risk on yourself……and then something happened later that same day.This episode is both a conversation and a real-time update. What you hear at the beginning was recorded after I finished the original episode. I picked up my camera and just hit record. No plan, no polish. Just where I was in that moment.In this episode, I talk about:The financial reality of moving to Los AngelesTaking risks without having everything figured outLeaving stability and what that actually feels likeMy mindset around money in this season of my lifeApplying for an apartment and what came afterThis is what it looks like to choose yourself in real time. Not perfectly. Not confidently every second. But honestly.If you’ve ever made a big decision and had to face the reality of it right after… this one is for you.New episodes of I Pick Passion and Funny drop every Tuesday.

May 27, 2026Episode 641 min

WHAT HAVE I DONE?

What Did I Do?I signed the papers to move out of my apartment… and immediately almost crashed out, what did I just do?In this solo episode of I Pick Passion and Funny, I’m bringing you into a real, unfiltered moment in my life as I prepare to move to Los Angeles. This is the follow-up I promised after my short season opener, and we’re getting into all of it.This episode is part reflection, part Q&A, and part real-time processing as I navigate a major life decision.We talk about:* Why I’m moving to LA and what pushed me to finally do it* The fear, doubt, and excitement that hit me right after making it official* What “picking passion” looks like for me right now* Career updates and what I’m building next* Why this season may include more solo episodes* Launching my Patreon as a natural pivot for exclusive content (including MJ music reaction videos)* A creator who I’m inspired by and his reaction videos* Plus a few fun, light questions to keep it honest and balancedThis episode includes a real, emotional moment recorded right after I signed my move-out paperwork. No filters. No polish. Just the truth.If you’ve ever made a bold decision and immediately questioned it… this one is for you.Support & Extras:Join my Patreon, please, for upcoming exclusive content + MJ music reaction videos: Link to first uploadGo to my YouTube for more and if you want to see my EMOTIONAL meltdown after signing my move-out paperwork!New episodes of I Pick Passion and Funny drop every Tuesday.

May 19, 2026Episode 51 hr 57 min

You’re Not Trippin’ with Tyree Elaine

This week, I’m sitting down with comedian, writer, and actress Tyree Elaine for a conversation that feels like a real-life phone call with your friend.This episode is honest, funny, reflective, and a little bit of everything in between. We talk about life, relationships, growth, and the thoughts women don’t always say out loud—but definitely think.Tyree opens up about where she is right now, her journey through stand-up and writing, stepping away from certain things, and what it looks like to evolve in real time. We also get into spirituality, identity, and trusting yourself through different seasons of life.This is one of those conversations where you might find yourself saying, “okay… so it’s not just me.”You’re not trippin’.⸻🎙️ In this episode:* Where Tyree is in life right now* Her journey through stand-up, writing, and stepping back* Navigating growth and evolving as a woman* Spirituality and personal reflection* The real thoughts women have but don’t always say* Friendship, identity, and figuring it out in real time⸻💌 Let’s stay connectedFollow Tyree Elaine on IG: @tyreeelaineAll things Tyree on her YouTube channel: LinkShe’s Tyree Elaine everywhere! She has a website also being redeveloped: www.tyreeelaine.comFollow your host: IGFollow the podcast: @ipickpassionprodsWe are growing on Facebook also: LinkIf you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to rate, review, and share; it helps the podcast grow and reach more people!

May 12, 2026Episode 442 min

Instead of Do It, Just Don’t with Comedian Justin Hires

This week, I’m joined by comedian, actor, writer, and creator Justin Hires for a real, funny, and insightful conversation about growth, discipline, and not allowing fear to get you stuck.; also find out why we said “just don’t”!!We talk about Justin’s journey across acting, stand-up, podcasting, and content creation—and how he’s continued to evolve while staying true to himself. From starring in major TV series to building his voice online, Justin shares what it takes to navigate the industry and life with intention.We might’ve also discussed toxic traits!At the core of this conversation, it’s compact, but impactful and meaningful. Don’t miss it!⸻🎙️ In this episode:* Justin’s journey through acting, comedy, and content creation* Lessons from working in television and film* Reinvention and evolving as a creative* Podcasting and building your voice* Discipline, mindset, and self-awareness* “Instead of do it… just don’t”⸻🔗 Connect with Justin HiresKillin It (Podcast): [Link]Stand-up YouTube: [Link]Main YouTube: [Link]Website: [Link]Instagram: [Link]Facebook: [Link]⸻💌 Let’s stay connectedFollow the podcast: @ipickpassionprodsFollow your host: IGYouTube ChannelIf you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, review, and leave a rating—it helps the podcast grow and become more discoverable!

May 5, 2026Episode 31 hr 24 min

You Are Still a Healer w/ Comedian and Actress Megan Sousa

This week, I’m joined by actress, comedian, and voiceover artist Megan Sousa for a conversation that’s honest, funny, and unexpectedly grounding.We talk about everything from her journey through acting and comedy to creating meaningful spaces through Laugh Your Truth Productions. Megan opens up about listening to God, trusting her voice, and what it looks like to stay aligned in an industry that can feel unpredictable.We also get into self-care, “robe era” life, reset days, and the importance of showing up as your full self—on and off stage.This one is for anyone navigating growth, purpose, and figuring it out in real time.⸻🎙️ In this episode:* Megan’s journey through acting, comedy, and voiceover* Creating community through Laugh Your Truth Productions* Listening to God and trusting your path* What it means to be a healer* The importance of rest, reset, and self-care* “Robe era” and finding joy in the little things⸻💌 Let’s stay connectedFollow Megan Sousa: InstagramKeep up with Lyt Comedy: InstagramMegan’s websiteFollow the podcast: @ipickpassionprodsFollow your host: @ErickaLBatesIf you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, review, and leave a rating—it helps the podcast grow and become more discoverable.

April 28, 2026Episode 21 hr 39 min

This Episode Is a Rollercoaster w/ Comedian Chaz Rodgers

This week I’m joined by Chaz Rodgers, and when I say this episode is a rollercoaster… I mean it.We talk jail, future selves, career paths, confidence, being non-compassionate (yeah… we went there), podcasting, and a whole lot more.It’s hilarious, it’s real, and there are definitely gems dropped throughout.This is our first guest episode of the season, and we’re coming in more intentional this time around.It’s a long one, so grab your snacks and get comfortable… you’re gonna enjoy this.Follow + Stay Connected with Chaz: Chaz’s IGLackaroni & Chaz on IGChaz’s YouTubeLackaroni & Chaz YouTubeFox Soul and ComedyLive.tv Follow IPP Productions:IGFacebook (help us grow)!YouTubeFollow the host:IGQuick favor, if you’re enjoying the podcast, rate it, leave a review, and share it. It really helps more people discover the show!

April 21, 2026Episode 110 min

I Owe You an Explanation | A 10-Minute Update

I Pick Passion and Funny – Season 2, Episode 1Title: I Owe You an ExplanationWe’re back.In this Season 2 premiere, I’m finally addressing the pause… the silence… and everything in between.If you’ve been here, you know I didn’t just disappear for no reason. And if you’re new, this is the perfect place to jump in.I’m not going all the way back, but I am getting honest about what that time looked like for me. The uncertainty, the pressure, the guilt, and why I didn’t have the capacity to keep showing up the way I wanted to.I also talk about my biggest regret… losing momentum when I had it.But more importantly, what’s different now.This season is about showing up anyway. Figuring it out in real time. Choosing passion, even when it doesn’t feel clear or comfortable.And yes… still keeping it funny along the way.This episode is short, intentional, and just the start. I’ll be doing a follow-up Q&A soon to answer your questions and go a little deeper.If you’ve ever felt stuck, unsure, or like you had to pause to get yourself together… this one is for you.Welcome to Season 2.⸻In this episode:* Why I stepped away without saying anything* The pressure of having time but no clarity* Guilt, uncertainty, and not having the capacity* My biggest regret from last season* What I learned during that time* What’s different now* What to expect this season

June 3, 202558 min

Ask me Anything: Chaotic, Grief, & Imposter Syndrome

In this solo episode, I’m answering questions — the real ones. From chaotic career thoughts to navigating grief and wrestling with imposter syndrome, I open up about where I’ve been, what I’ve learned (or am still learning), and why trying matters more than pretending to have it all together.This Q&A is a mix of heart, humor, and a little healing. If you’re figuring it out in real-time too… welcome. You’re not alone.In this episode: • What chaos really looks like behind the scenes • How grief shows up in everyday moments • That sneaky voice of imposter syndrome • What I’m learning about redirection (not rebranding) • A soft tease of what’s coming 👀Don’t forget to subscribe to get the latest episodes and updates first — and if something resonated with you, send it to a friend or drop me a message. I’m building something, and I’d love for you to be part of it.Follow the me and the pod:📸 IG: @theipickpassionpodcast🎙 Hosted by @ErickaLBatesWatch on YouTube: [Link]

May 20, 202539 min

Life Updates, 100 Subs, & Reconnection Issues 🤷🏽‍♀️

I’m back with a solo episode — the first one in a while — and this one’s all about real-life updates, unexpected leaps, and a few tech issues along the way.I’m celebrating 100 YouTube subscribers (thank you!!), and opening up about a leap I recently took — one I didn’t plan for, but clearly needed to make. I talk about what led to that decision, how it’s shaping the path I’m on now, and why I’m choosing to walk it even though I’m scared… not worried.Oh, and yes — reconnection issues were very real. My computer cut out during recording, the visuals glitched towards the end, but the message made it through. 😅⸻In this episode:✨ Reaching 100 subscribers on YouTube — I appreciate y’all!💻 Connection issues and tech hiccups mid-recording🪂 An unexpected leap — and what pushed me to take it💭 Being in transition, scared but not worried, and finding peace in not having all the answers⸻P.S. I meant to talk about my work luncheon this week, but I’ll save that beautiful story for next Tuesday’s episode — it deserves its own shine.⸻🎧 If this episode speaks to you, please rate, review, and share — it helps so much.📲 Subscribe to the podcast + YouTube for more real funny moments and passion-led episodes.⸻Stay connected:IG: [Link]📺 [YouTube Channel]