What started as a biologist importing tea for friends became Austin's most unique gathering place. So-Han Fan, founder of West China Tea, shares how an ancient Chinese tea practice facilitates authentic connection in our disconnected world.

What We Discuss:

• What is tea? - why most things we call "tea" isn’t actually tea

• Gong Fu Cha magic - the folk art of brewing that demands presence and rewards patience

• Tea as plant medicine - the four compounds that create "tea drunk" euphoria without the crash

• Community without trying - how the right environment naturally melts strangers into friends

• From scientist to tea entrepreneur - meeting farmers in Chinese mountains and accidentally starting a business

• Inclusive community by design - how tea creates an engaging, friendly space that welcomes everyone and encourages authenticity

• Chi and water memory - Sohan's take on why tea works instantly on your body

Visit West China Tea

• New Location: 1715 E 7th Street, Austin

• Website: westchinatea.com

• YouTube: ⁠⁠TeahouseGhost⁠⁠ (tea education videos)

• Social: @westchinatea

For Anyone Who

• Craves authentic community connection

• Values community building

• Feels curious about mindful practices

• Loves learning about plant medicine and ancient rituals

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The Artist Rendezvous celebrates the creative spirit of Austin, Texas, sharing stories of inspiration, risk, and the courage to create. Each episode explores what it means to live a creative life and the mindset shifts that enable artistic success.