Surface Level

Damon, Jordan, and Tony are curious – where's the line between secrecy and privacy?This National Black HIV/AIDS Day, we had the privilege of hosting Harlem Stage Presents: Surface Level Live, powered by Gilead Sciences. We are grateful for those who were able to join us in person, and we're beyond excited to share the experience digitally with our Surface Level Insiders who couldn't be there.During Part 2 of this special series, we are excited to welcome producer, writer, and director Patrik-Ian Polk to our Surface Level family. We continue the conversation with a unique perspective on sexual health from a member of our community who lived through the AIDS crisis. We also discuss how his beloved work, such as Noah's Arc, has addressed issues related to sexual health, the evolution of expectations surrounding the disclosure of HIV status over time, and the fine line between secrecy and privacy. It was an honor to have this conversation with someone we admire, and we are excited to share this raw and honest discussion with our audience.We know a lot, but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Damon, Jordan, and Tony are curious – is Queer pleasure a privilege?This National Black HIV/AIDS Day, we had the privilege of hosting Harlem Stage Presents: Surface Level Live, powered by Gilead Sciences. We are grateful for those who were able to join us in person, and we're beyond excited to share the experience digitally with our Surface Level Insiders who couldn't be there.During Part 1 of this special series, we explored our connection to pleasure in the age of PrEP. We discussed how modern medicine has created an environment where queer men no longer need to fear sex. We also examined the new stigmas that have emerged from these protection measures, and we shared our thoughts on how we should speak to each other about sexual health. Additionally, we addressed the generational divide in attitudes toward safer sex practices as a preview of what's to come in Part 2 of this discussion.We know a lot, but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Damon, Jordan, and Tony are curious – are you ready to go beyond the surface level?We end our growth journey and 10th season with a tradition we hold dear—responding to questions and comments from you, our Surface Level Insiders. We laugh, share personal insights, and push back against the inquiries and opinions shared throughout the season. We can't wait to share more parts of this journey with you. Until next time… stay curious.We know a lot, but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Damon, Jordan, and Tony are curious – has access to the internet reduced the quality of art?In Season 1, we explored the desire for people to use the internet to stunt and fabricate their lives. In this episode, we take that conversation further by examining the positive and negative effects the internet has had on art. We're thrilled to welcome Durand Bernarr, Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter, and artist, to our Surface Level Family. Together, we explore the impact the internet has had on perceived talent, whether the internet could benefit from a quality control department, and parts of Black Queer culture we wish had stayed private. With so many varying views on this topic, we're excited for you to join in as we dive into the final topic of the season.We know a lot, but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Damon, Jordan, and Tony are curious – can freedom and the need for validation coexist? In Season 1, we explored authenticity and living in our truths was interrogated over and over again, and today we're going to have a conversation about how perception and validation shape us—and the freedom we find when we finally let go and “release ya wiggle.” We're thrilled to welcome Jonté Moaning true trailblazer in dance, fashion, and queer artistry.to the Surface Level family. We explore the need to perform versions of ourselves on social media, how validation plays a role in our ability to thrive, and explore the moments when we feel most free. We know a lot, but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Damon, Jordan, and Tony are curious – how do we balance resistance and protecting our peace? In Season 1, we explored the sacrifices needed to make Black queer lives matter. Today, we ask: what does resistance look like in 2025? With political unrest, DEI rollbacks, and an election that left many Black Americans feeling isolated, how do we keep fighting without burning out? We reflect on the role of Surface Level in activism, how Black identity is shifting in politics, and the ways we're protecting our peace for the next four years. We know a lot, but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Damon, Jordan, and Tony are curious – how does loneliness effect Black Queer identity? In Season 1, we explored the disconnect we sometimes feel towards our hometowns in pursuit of our dreams. Today, we go further, centering the loneliness many Queer individuals feel for existing outside of accepted norms. We are excited to welcome Keith “Icy” Parris, beauty influencer and disability advocate, to our Surface Level family. We explore how digital platforms have created both online community and further isolation, how our own standards of personal access can contribute to isolation, and whether we have ever been the culprit in isolating others. The line between protecting your peace and exclusion is fine—where do you draw that line? We know a lot, but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Damon, Jordan, and Tony are curious – can failed romance become friendship? In Season 1, we explored how we navigate platonic friendships. Today, we take it a step further by discussing the intersection of past romance and current friendship. We'll examine past relationships through the lens of our present partnerships. As queer people, many of our relationships overlap, and we'll explore how this affects our communication with current partners, as well as the line between trauma responses and the perception of nefarious intent. The reality is that the queer community—particularly the Black queer community—is small. So, when navigating life and love, how can we ensure we don't close ourselves off to great people simply because of how a relationship began? We know a lot, but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Damon, Jordan, and Tony are curious – who has shaped our Queer identities? In season one, we explored our relationships with our fathers. Today, we go further by bringing our “Gay Mothers” on the show to shed light on the people who have shaped our Queer journeys. We are excited to welcome Corey Baker, Anthony Woodburne, and George Gary III to our Surface Level family. Each of us has a separate conversation with the people who have been most impactful, especially during our years of Queer discovery. It is often said that Queer people experience a second adolescence, as we spend the first one often hiding parts of who we are. These individuals were the guiding lights we needed during that stage of our lives, and our relationships with them are integral to what Surface Level is today. We know a lot, but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Damon, Jordan & Tony are curious – when is criticism friend or foe? In season one, we discussed the environment of cancel culture. Today, we go further in examining public critique and when it is helpful—and when it is not. We are honored to welcome Lena Waithe, actor, producer, and screenwriter, to our Surface Level family. Together, we explore the societal boxes we are often defined by, the importance of cultivating community both on and off screen, how social media chatter does or does not affect the art we create, and the stories we tell. This episode is one we are truly excited to share as we begin the journey into 2025. We know a lot, but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Damon, Jordan & Tony are curious – where do we stand on toxic masculinity? In season one, we discussed the obsession with masculinity in the queer community—chasing "trade," butching it up around straight people, and learning to embrace our femininity. Today, let's examine where we stand on toxic masculinity. We are excited to welcome Sailey Williams, creative director, photographer, and publisher, to the Surface Level family. Together, we explore the desires of "masc for masc" gays, the inclination of some queer men to distance themselves from femininity, and how both masculinity and femininity can thrive within our community. We know a lot, but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Damon, Jordan & Tony are curious – how varied are our views on non-monogamy? We are excited to welcome you to Season 10 of Surface Level: Gurl, Grow Up, where each week we will revisit a different episode from Season 1 through the lens of growth. In this first episode, we explore the topic of romantic relationships and how our experiences with non-monogamy have evolved since recording our first season. We discuss the experiences that have led us to our current beliefs, whether relationships are stronger when open from the beginning or at a later point, and any rules we have in our individual relationships. This topic truly highlights the range of opinions among the hosts, and we are excited for you to join in on the conversation. We know a lot, but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Damon is curious – how do anti-LGBTQ+ laws impact the Black Queer community, and what's being done to fight back? In this final episode of our 3-part mini-series, Damon is joined by Dr. David Johns, CEO & Executive Director of the National Black Justice Coalition, Tabytha Gonzalez, Human Rights Specialist for the NYC Commission on Human Rights, and Olivia Lux, drag artist, actor, singer, and musician. Together, they dive into the legislative battles that disproportionately affect the Queer community, especially Black and Brown folx. From anti-trans laws to attacks on drag performances, we discuss how these harmful measures are shaping the political landscape—and what Black Queer leaders are doing to make their voices heard. As we close out the series, we look at how personal experiences often drive political action and explore what political issue hits closest to home for our guests. We know a lot, but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan is curious – how is politics shaping the daily lives of young Queer Americans? In this episode, we continue our 3-part mini-series with a focus on the youth vote and political engagement. Jordan is joined by Jay Jones, first Trans President of the Howard University Student Association, Kevin Ortega-Rojas, host of Here's Why News and co-host of ByLatinMen Podcast, and Herby Revolous, culture critic and creator. Together, they dive into how young people are interacting with politics online and the ways these interactions are shaping real-world outcomes. From school safety to social media censorship, they explore the unique challenges faced by younger generations in today's political climate. As we navigate topics like gun violence and the role of social media in political campaigns, we're reminded of how much the youth vote matters—and why their voices must be heard. We know a lot, but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Tony is curious – how will this election effect Queer healthcare? We welcome you to part one of our three-part miniseries, “The Personal Is Political,” in partnership with GLAAD. This series is centered around the current political landscape and will explore issues with a focus on Black and Queer communities. Tony is happy to welcome Lala B. Zannell, Senior Campaign Strategist at the ACLU; Kris Chessen, co-host of the Bad Queers Podcast; and Zach Stafford, journalist and co-host of the Vibe Check Podcast, to our Surface Level family. In this first episode, we interrogate abortion care as an issue not just for cis women, discuss the misinformation surrounding gender-affirming care, and explore how HIV stigma impacts the spread of HIV. We close each part of this series by giving our panel a chance to highlight the political issue that is most personal to them. This is not your boring political show; it is our kitchen table—a place to talk like real people about increasingly urgent issues. We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon, & Tony are curious – when will folx learn to trust Black women? This week, we're thrilled to welcome director, producer, and screenwriter Lee Daniels to our Surface Level family. We'll dissect the theme of trusting Black women in his new film, The Deliverance. We'll also highlight some of the Black women who have helped shape our perspectives, address the unique challenges faced by Black trans women, and explore why Lee consistently creates complex work for this widely underrepresented group. We're excited to return with fresh content between seasons and hope you enjoy it. We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon, & Tony are curious – are you ready to go beyond the surface level with us? With this episode, we close another chapter in the journey of Surface Level. For the ninth time, we open the floor to questions from you, our Surface Level Insiders. We explore a range of topics, including dating, sex, work life, parenthood, and more. It's a fun way to wrap up this season. We're excited to take some time to develop the next part of this story. Until then… stay curious. We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon, & Tony are curious – what role does porn play in our understanding of sex? We round out Throb, our season on sex, with an exploration of our past and present relationship with pornography. We discuss our initial introduction to porn and the positive and negative impacts it had on us as young adults. We then explore its role today, both privately and with a partner. We close by discussing sexual desires we have seen on screen that we are interested in exploring in real life. We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon, & Tony are curious – how important is sexual compatibility? This week, we explore the value placed on sexual compatibility when considering romantic partners. We discuss our role in fulfilling our partners' various desires, how honest we have been about our own desires in new relationships, and methods of fulfillment that do not rely solely on our partners. Long-term partnerships are complex, with sex being just one aspect for many. Is sexual compatibility a deal breaker, or is it not an issue at all based on your relationship style? We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon, & Tony are curious – are we ready for Queer men to sing about sex? This week, we're thrilled to welcome music artist serpentwithfeet to our Surface Level Family. We'll dive into the overtly sexual themes of his latest album, Grip, and examine how these themes have been received by the community at large. Are there differences in how we perceive romance versus sexual intimacy in music? And how can we support queer male artists with the same enthusiasm we show to beloved female pop stars? We'll wrap up the episode by sharing some of our favorite queer artists who are telling powerful stories about intimacy. We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon, & Tony are curious – do HIV criminalization laws increase stigma? This week, we are excited to welcome Robert Suttle, a social justice advocate, to our Surface Level Family. We'll be discussing his personal experiences and advocacy work concerning the impact of HIV criminalization laws on Queer communities. Many of these laws, enacted in the 80s and 90s, do not align with current scientific understanding and perpetuate stigma and shame. HIV status is a private health matter and should not be used as a weapon against vulnerable populations. In this episode, we explore the harm caused by using legal punishment to address a health crisis. We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon, & Tony are curious – are you sexual on social media? We're thrilled to announce a two-part crossover episode with special guests, Busy Boys Uncensored. In part two, we welcome Jah and Sekani into our Surface Level family. Together, we delve into how sex and dating have permeated everyday social media apps. Is there shame associated with expressing sexuality or stepping outside of gender norms on these platforms? We conclude with some personal disclosure about aspects of our sexuality that might surprise those who only know us through social media. Sex, as we've discovered, is everywhere; our interactions with it vary across different platforms. We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon, & Tony are curious – are hookup apps in their flop era? We're excited to announce a two-part crossover episode featuring special guests, Busy Boys Uncensored. In part one, we welcome Mayce and Damontae into our Surface Level family. Together, we delve into the culture of "the apps" and their profound impact on our sexual interactions. We explore generational differences, questioning whether these platforms have made connections more or less meaningful, and ponder if we now have access to too much of a good thing. We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon, & Tony are curious – what language should we use to discuss STIs? Part of maintaining a healthy sex life involves regular screenings for STIs. Over time, the way we discuss this topic has taken a negative turn. The question "are you clean?" has become synonymous with STI disclosure, adding public shame to the personal stigma people feel if they test positive. We discuss how to approach these conversations with sexual partners and address the stigma surrounding discussions about HIV in the media. Finally, we share advice we've learned over time on how to manage these conversations effectively. STI and HIV disclosure should not be sensationalized or shamed. We aim to contribute to reducing stigma in this week's episode. We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon, & Tony are curious – how do we reduce harm when drug use and Queer sex intersect? This week, as we delve into a sensitive topic, we welcome Andrea Rodriguez, Community Cultivation Coordinator for Dance Safe, to our Surface Level Family. This episode explores the realities of drug use among Queer folx and how to provide comprehensive information and support. Harm reduction destigmatizes drug use, and organizations like Dance Safe provide participants with fact-based knowledge about the effects of various substances. We also examine the phenomenon of “chem sex” among Queer folx and discuss ways to support friends and family whom we suspect may be overindulging. As cultural attitudes toward drug use evolve, we believe our discussions and support for individuals should evolve as well. We encourage everyone to keep an open mind, as this episode sheds light on an important topic that taught us a great deal. We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon, & Tony are curious – what is medical fact vs fiction when it comes to Queer male sex? This week, class is in session, and we are thrilled to welcome Dr. Leo Moorei, the Medical Director for Clinic Services at the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, to our Surface Level Family. We're diving deep into aspects of sexual hygiene, pleasure, and health with an individual who truly has the tea. We pride ourselves on creating a platform that is fun but also offers educational information to our target audience. Find a quiet room, take out your notepad, and get ready—you won't want to miss a beat. We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon, & Tony are curious – how can casual sex be used as a tool for exploration and empowerment? During this dynamic episode, we welcome storyteller and activist Tarek Ali to our Surface Level Family. Tarek contributes to a conversation centered on the complex relationship that queer men have with casual sex. Casual sex is often viewed simply as a coping mechanism, but we'd like to interrogate that idea a bit further. Like everything in life, these are experiences from which there is a lesson to be learned. From developing agency over our bodies to deepening our relationship with pleasure, these experiences can be amazing teachers. So whether you are at home, at a bathhouse, or vacationing, give yourself grace in casually exploring your desires.  We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon, & Tony are curious – what impact does hookup culture have on Queer male intimacy? For our ninth season titled “Throb,” we are embarking on a journey to explore all aspects of sex and sexuality. We kick off this journey with a topic familiar to queer men: hookup culture. Where have we found the most joy in hooking up, and what memories do we hope to bury? How does instant physical gratification affect our ability to connect emotionally with romantic interests? We also delve into the safety implications of anonymous encounters. Personal stories make this episode a thrilling ride, and it's just the beginning of a season that is sure to get everyone talking. We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon, & Tony are curious – are you ready to go beyond the surface level with us? We made it through another cycle of the Surface Level journey. Through this season of reflection, we hope that we were able to introduce you some new figures or expand your knowledge of familiar faces. We believe truly that there is much to learn from our Queer ancestors and elders and are proud that we did our part in preserving their legacies. Now once again it's your turn to ask the question so strap in as we wrap up the eighth installment of our curious voyage. We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon, & Tony are curious – with time can Queer love exist without shame? In this episode, we are excited to welcome actor Noah J. Ricketts to our Surface Level family. Exploring the themes of his incredible character Frankie from the miniseries Fellow Travelers we delve into the expanse of how Queer people express love. We close our season of reflection exploring how the themes of shame and personal triumph play equal roles in our journey to love ourselves and other Queer folx. This season has given us much to look back on to grow our own perspectives on life we hope this final installment encourages everyone reflect on who they are today and constantly strive to be a better version of that person tomorrow. We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon & Tony are curious – does cash rule everything around you? This week we talk about the ever-looming presence of capitalism. What experiences have shaped our relationship with money, have we ever felt looked down upon because of material things we lacked, how have we navigated mainly White professional spaces as Black Queer professionals. An often-quoted scripture says that the love of money is the root of all evil. We explore how we find the balance of meeting our economic needs but not being consumed by the constant capitalistic need for more. We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon, & Tony are curious – where is the line between funny and offensive? In this episode, we are joined by comedian, actor * writer Jay Jurdan. The artform of comedy has been in the spotlight in recent years as we all try and define the line between jokes and insensitivity. We explore the artform and the need for specificity in discussing its subjects. Is the concept of punching down a hard rule or should there be nuance instead of hard rules? Depending on who you ask those answers can vary greatly, and we explore our individual points of view on the topic. We close with a very Black moment of laughing at our pain and sharing ridiculous life expereinces that we think would make a hilarious sketch comedy. We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon & Tony are curious – is fear of femininity the thief of joy? This week we revisit our relationship with the expression of femininity in what we wear. Are we uncomfortable with expressing ourselves outside of the confines of the gender binary? Is that fear greater for men within our community than for women? We challenge what we've been taught but also interrogate who has the right to own this aesthetic in the future, if anyone at all. The beauty in finding new ways to outwardly express who we are is a joy we revel in. So in the future let's be more masc, fem and everything in between. We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon & Tony are curious – what place does AI have in the creation of art? This week we bring a fresh topic to our listeners debating the benefits and concerns around artificial intelligence. We focus in on generative AI and its effect on the world of art. Should we look for ways to make the creation of art more efficient and democratize its various forms for more people? Should we view art forms and creation as sacred where the journey is as valuable as the outcome? The world is changing and we are curious about how to best navigate what at this point is the inevitable. We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon, & Tony are curious – why are conservatives so scared of drag queens? In this episode, we are joined by drag phenom Olivia Lux. With her first-hand account from her time on Drag Race, we use the life and lessons of RuPaul in this week's reflection. We explore our first impressions of the art form filled with surprise and delight. Olivia gives us insight into the people and experiences that crafted her personal journey. We dive deep into the current assault on drag from conservative politicians and what we believe is the motivation behind it. We end by highlighting the joy drag can bring, both through sharing stories of the people behind the persona and by highlighting the craft of its artists. We know a lot, but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social media and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon, & Tony are curious – if your humanity is conditional is it humanity at all? Surface Level began as a show reflecting the lives, experiences, and conversation of its three host. To have a season live during the ongoing Middle Eastern conflict and not share our experience processing, learning, and developing our views towards the situation felt inauthentic. We do not believe we are experts on Middle Eastern relations but human beings witnessing a humanitarian disaster unfold in real time. What do the views of Black Queer folx have to do with this topic? What is the key driver behind the more vocal support of Palestine particularly from communities of color? What resources have helped us make sense of this and develop thoughtful views on the topic? These are a few of the questions we explore during this episode. We ask that this show serve as a spark to think, reflect, to research, to learn, and to see all people as human. We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon, & Tony are curious – what are the risks it takes to bloom into who we really are? In this episode, we're honored to be joined by trans activist and the author of "The Risk It Takes To Bloom: On Life and Liberation," Raquel Willis. To kick things off, we engage in an icebreaker game that pays homage to Sylvia Rivera, a trailblazing trans activist from the 60s and 70s. Each of us then reflects on the pivotal moments when we embraced our sexuality or gender identity. Diving deep into the themes of Raquel's book, we explore the intricacies of the trans experience and culture. The episode concludes with a thought-provoking discussion on the future of the Queer revolution, emphasizing the crucial need to amplify the voices and experiences of Black Trans individuals. We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

00:00-Introduction 00:54-Recap since season 7 10:00-Unveiling the season 8 theme: "A Reflection" 10:46-Engaging in a game inspired by Little Richard 18:04-Exploring the toughest aspects of our journey to self-acceptance 29:37-Thoughts on creators who reject or conceal their queerness 35:51-Delving into what aspects of our lives we choose to keep private 41:25-Examining the question of oversharing in our stories 46:13-Celebrating and recognizing a queer individual we admire Jordan, Damon, & Tony are curious – where do we draw the line between living out loud and our right to privacy? We start our season of reflection focused on the life of Little Richard. We explore the complex relationship that many of us have with living our Queer truth in public. We explore how social media has added to that complexity and the line we draw between sharing and privacy on Surface Level. Like icon Little Richard: friends, family, religion, and public opinion may limit our ability to live out loud. In reflection, we hope to rid ourselves of that pressure and live most honestly in the future. We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon & Tony are curious – how have our views around relationships become more fluid? This week we offer a second look at fluidity; this time through the lens of relationship types. We welcome Jahad J.C. Carter, host of the Hopeless Romantic Society, back to the Surface Level table. A topic that is enriched through the technicolor lens of Queer experience; we are sure you all will have a lot to say. Are our views around relationships similar to how we grew up? Have they been varied based on the partner? or are we still just figuring it out? All levels of experience are valid as we share views that hopefully make you think differently, even if you disagree. Get ready for the ride as we close this special bonus series. We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon & Tony are curious – how have our views around our sex lives become more fluid? Surprise we're back for a special two-part bonus serious! We're adding the fluidity of water to our season, first tackling the topic of sexuality. We welcome Jahad J.C. Carter to our Surface Level Family. Host of the virile series The Hopeless Romantics Society he brings his special brand of humor and humanity to our show. We are excited to explore how sexuality is an ever-evolving topic shaped by personal experiences and public perception. Are we brave enough to go against the grain and explore our desires let's, see? We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon & Tony are curious – are you ready to go beyond the surface level with us? Once again we sign off after this very special season grounded in earth, freed through wind, and emboldened by fire. We hope we've succeeded in our mission to make you more curious about topics that are not typically broached. Special thanks to all of our amazing guest in sharing their stories and experiences in making the journey of Surface Level that much more special. So here's our love letter to you our Surface Level Insiders, your questions shape the end of each season and we are happy to share our experiences on things you're curious about. So farewell for now as we take some time to keep living, growing, and preparing more stories for the future. We know a lot, but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Damon, Jordan & Tony are curious – how can healthy disagreement lead to personal growth? Closing the fire series, our penultimate episode for season seven explores what happens when tempers boil over. We recognize that even in our closest relationships there is bound to be conflict, but how we approach these situations make the difference in our lives. Will we accept uneasy conversations as an opportunity to grow or let ego take over? Will we assert ourselves to those around us while still showing them respect or get down in the gutter? Depending on the day the answer is different but we hope to learn a bit more each day even if some lessons don't always come with a smile. We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon & Tony are curious – how does aligning with traditional beauty standards benefit and harm our community? Pretty privilege, the hot-button topic that has been at the forefront of many kitchen tables has made its way to Surface Level. This week we welcome Obio Jones, Digital Creator and LGBTQIA+ Advocate to our Surface Level family. We ask ourselves, can we work against a system that we benefit from? The age of social media has thrust physical appearance into the forefront of anyone looking to garner attention for their work. Is it fair? No. Is it reality? Absolutely. When operating from a place of privilege, we believe it is the work of those individuals to recognize it, speak out about it, and use the attention, not just for their own advancement, but to create a better community for all of us. We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan & Tony are curious – how can we broaden what it means to be Black and excellent? In this unprecedented bonus episode, we revisit our season opener, 'Black Excellence Is A Scam,' from a fresh perspective. While Damon is absent this week (rest assured, he'll be back in full effect next week!), we are excited to welcome Eboni K. Williams, an Author, Attorney, and Host, to our Surface Level family. Eboni, the first Black Housewife on Bravo's Real Housewives of New York City (RHONY), is a disruptor in the media landscape who continues to offer a unique take on Black Excellence. Join us as we delve into the intricate relationship between Whiteness, classism, and mental health, and their influence on our perception of Black Excellence. We also touch on the polarizing 'bus driver gate' and the role of power in our romantic lives. Additionally, we address criticisms surrounding Eboni's time on RHONY. Prepare for a spirited and engaging discussion about a topic that our community can't seem to stop talking about. We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon & Tony are curious – how does the work of Queer nightlife curators impact our ability to find community? In closing out Wind series, we are excited to pay tribute to a space that has long represented freedom for Queer individuals: nightlife. This supersized episode of Surface Level is dedicated to the legacy of Black Queer nightlife giant, Frank Watson, who we lost earlier this year. We welcome 3 impressive curators in their own right to our Surface Level family, Joe Morris founder of Joe Morris Events and co-owner of Brunch Harlem, Micah Marquez co-founder of Deviant Events, and Chuck co-owner of Lambda Lounge Harlem and Club Lambda Brooklyn. From discriminations they have faced, to the complexities of managing large crowds, to the desire they have in curating brands that represent the broad desires of Queer individuals looking for community, we cover a lot. This episode was a fun one to be a part of so get ready for a wild ride. We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon & Tony are curious – how is the quest to not just survive but thrive unique within Black Trans experience ? In an effort to continue to introduce you to amazing members of our community this week we welcome Tabytha Gonzalez to our Surface Level Family. A human rights professional and a woman with a story that deserves to be told we speak with her through the lens of new documentary The Stroll streaming on Max. The Stroll tells the story of trans women of color who's economic survival was tied to their time as sex workers in what is now New York City's Meatpacking District. It is a story of hardship, love, violence, community, but most importantly resilience. Tabytha shared parts of her story on The Stroll and we are excited to go beyond the surface level with her here. We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon & Tony are curious – how do we protect our joy when pride is under attack? We bring you something special edition of Surface Level for Pride 2023! We are happy to share our favorite pride memories, delve into a conversation around the attack on Queer representation from conservatives, and offer a little bit of Surface Level drag story time because you know we love the kids(well Jordan and Tony do). Our joy is not optional so with equal parts celebration and defiance we offer you pride in the face of prejudice. We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon & Tony are curious – What was our parent's journey in accepting our Queer identity? This episode will likely take the crown as our most personal level ever. This week we welcome Annette Epps, Teresa Randall, and Tony Jermin Sr, better known as our parents, to our Surface Level family. We explore the joy, surprise, pain, and confusion that defined our parents journey of accepting their Queer children. We hope that this episode serves as a possibility model for parents, children, and people generally that when you lead with love that bond cannot be broken. We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon & Tony are curious - How can we dismantle mental health stigmas and foster understanding? In this episode as we navigate the complex terrain of mental health. We welcome Jarred Denzel Keller to our Surface Level Family. Jarred, a Mental Health Advocate and Senior Press Secretary for the Human Rights Campaign, bears his truth for all to hear and see. Together, we shed light on the commodification of mental well-being, advocating for genuine understanding, compassion, and the urgent dismantling of stigmas. Prepare for an eye-opening discussion challenging preconceptions, cultivating empathy, and embracing a compassionate approach. Journey with us as we strive to create a society fostering support, acceptance, and genuine care for mental well-being. We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon & Tony are curious – is Black Excellence doing more harm than help? In this thought-provoking episode, we challenge the notion of "Black Excellence" and explore the unrealistic pressures that surround it. This special episode was recorded in front of a live audience, marking an exciting milestone for our podcast. Together, we seek to redefine the true meaning of success and offer a fresh perspective on achievement. Join us as we navigate this transformative exploration, inviting you to embrace authenticity and discover joy on your own terms. Prepare for an enlightening conversation that sparks introspection and opens doors to new possibilities. We know a lot but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.

Jordan, Damon & Tony are curious – are you ready to go beyond the surface level with us? Another season in the books for this journey that we call Surface Level. We have a blast connecting with our listeners through a series of audience submitted questions. We're a bit off the cuff an we're sure you'll enjoy it. This season we've worked to create visibility for stories that aren't often told. This isn't good buy just a see you later as we prepare to offer more thoughtful conversations in the furture. We know a lot, but we don't know it all, so join the conversation on social and let us know your thoughts.