About Us
Nurturing Our Community Through Tea Since 2022
Our Mission
Our mission is to nurture community wellbeing in Johnson City by providing an inclusive and welcoming space for cultural exploration, open dialogue, and creative expression. Through intentional programming and a shared love of tea, we foster compassion, sustainability, and cross-cultural understanding — empowering individuals to build a more connected and resilient community.
Our Vision and Values
We envision curating an East Tennessee rooted in compassion, cultural connection, and environmental stewardship – where communities thrive through shared dialogue, diversity, and a deep sense of belonging.
Cultural appreciation is one of our values and focuses.
Inclusivity
Welcoming all backgrounds, identities, and beliefs
Hospitality
Creating a warm, open environment for all
Sustainability
Committed to practices that support a healthy planet and future
Advocacy
Uplifting marginalized voices and championing equity in our community.
Dialogue
Facilitating open, respectful conversations
Cultural Appreciation
Facilitating open, respectful conversations
Our Story
Since opening in December 2022, The Philosopher’s House has become a nonprofit, liberal-arts sanctuary where tea sparks connection and growth. Housed in a lovingly restored building near Kings Commons Park, it serves as a welcoming “third space” for curiosity, conversation, and community. Guests gather around tea ceremonies, cozy fires, and shared learning—invited to pause, sip, and belong.
Beyond the teapot lies a vibrant hub of multicultural learning and creative exchange. The Philosopher’s House offers language classes, meditation, art events, and environmental discussions—linking neighbors who have wisdom to share with a region eager to learn. Each year, over a thousand classes and gatherings fill its calendar, uniting artists, activists, and lifelong learners in an atmosphere of inclusion and discovery.
Accessibility is at the heart of everything we do. Over 95% of offerings are free or donation-based, and a volunteer-for-membership model ensures everyone can participate. Founders Jesse and Jessica built The Philosopher’s House to nurture Johnson City’s wellbeing—human, animal, and environmental—through dialogue, diversity, and stewardship. Supporting this space means investing in a living ecosystem of ideas where tea becomes a catalyst for change, connection, and healing.
Founders Jesse Shelton and Jessica Cooper at a Japanese tea farm.
Our Leadership Team
The leadership team of The Philosopher’s House is a small group of dedicated stewards who care deeply for the mission, the space, and the community it serves. They work quietly behind the scenes to guide the House with intention, ensuring that its values of reflection, hospitality, and learning remain at the center of everything we do. Through thoughtful leadership and shared responsibility, they help sustain a place where ideas, conversations, and connections can continue to grow.
Jesse Shelton
Founder
Ren Allen
House Manager
Cat Stewart
Tea Counter Manager