The Up & Down Show: Recent Episodes
The Up & Down Show
The Up & Down with Daniel and Upendo brings together two friends who have something to say about everything, and even more to do about nothing. Bonded over their years of different career milestones, boyfriends, husbands, hairstyles and pandemics, these two have an infectious joy for life that is only brightened by the colorful cast of friends, family and characters you will enjoy getting to know. The Up & Down offers us a glimpse into their lives as UPwardly mobile Gen Xers with a passion for all things DOWNtown.During the day, as professional social workers, Daniel and Upendo are always ready to serve their community and raise up justice (maybe substitute “justice” with: the underdog, the unheard, the voiceless, the…). Sit back to learn, love and laugh with two authentic souls who are committed in their adventures to leave this world safer, happier and shiner than it was when they came into it.
Upendo and Daniel have a robust conversation with Emily Skye of SheWolf Films. Emily is a local screenwriter/director/producer that has a new feature film RIVER (follow it at @riverofficialfilm on Instagram) coming out July 13th. Hear her story and most importantly how she was able to navigate the film industry as a woman. You will be inspired by her truth and the lessons she has learned on her journey thus far. Will Emily survive the Rapid-Fire questions posed by the hosts? Watch to find out why Upendo is so desperate to date her neighbors and why Daniel never made it as a model. Ups for this episode focus on Delray Beach, Florida. #emilyskyefilms #shewolffilms #riverofficialfilm #womenfilmmakers #shefilmtribe #delraybeach
Upendo and Daniel pause to reflect on their memories and inspirations around Black History Month. Since 1976, every U.S. president has officially designated the month of February as a month to honor the history of Black Americans. Can you remember when you first began celebrating this national honorarium? The hosts share some trivia, some possibly controversial opinions, and their own favorite Black historical figures of yesterday, today, and tomorrow. What former US Senator refused to vote in favor of designating a Black History Month? Will we ever live in a society where we do not require a special month to honor Black lives? Can you sing the Black National Anthem? What are your opinions on the idea of reparations? Ups for this episode include two new movies about Black lives and an app that Upendo swears will change your life.
CicelyTyson #GeorgeWashingtonCarver #MLK #blackhistorymonth #HarrietTubman #reparations #DannyGlover #AmandaGorman #NipseyHussle #TigerWoods #colorism #onenightinmiami #crackthedocumentary #keywithamazon
Upendo and Daniel celebrate making it through 2020 (the year that will from now on go unnamed). The previous year was like a long, bad date. It's time to dust off our vision boards and own today and tomorrow. This is not a retrospective show. This is a show about moving on. What are you looking forward to in 2021? How easy is it to forgive, forget and/or move on from negative people, places and things? The hosts explore these concepts.
Daniel and Upendo reclaim their commitment to love, singing, sci-fi and staying healthy as the coronavirus continues to mutate. Join them as they forecast their personal, professional and global realities. And learn how forgiveness factors into their lives. Grab your bestie, listen to the show and let us know how your forecasts compare to theirs. Ups for this episode include a BFF's innovative, recycled jewelry and a national nonprofit known for repurposing goods and hiring people with disabilities.
gratitude #movingon #love #maraineysblackbottom #2021 #stevenspielberg #suzannesole #bff #recycle #goodwill #dune #seanyoung #kylemclaughlin #timotheechalamet #scifi #kissing #dancing #brunch #traveling
Daniel and Upendo don’t hold back any punches as they react to the political climate and chaos already plaguing this new year, and it's only January. This episode was the first show recorded in 2021. Both hosts could not wait to get back to break down their thoughts and opinions about this most unusual moment in history: The storming of the US Capitol; Insurrectionists; White supremacy groups; and,, Trump’s unceremonious and unprecedented departure from office.
But not to worry, Upendo and Daniel also find time to celebrate some of the highpoints of January 2021. Both hosts agree that Inauguration Day provided Americans with excitement and appreciation for life that seemed to be missing during the last 4 years: Pride; Hope; Excitement; And so many undeniably instant classic political moments. Can someone say Amada Gorman, Lady Gaga, and JLo?, And we shall never forget former first lady, Michelle Obama, in that purple pant suit and matching trench coat, with THE belt buckle of the year. We don't know about you, but somehow January 20th seemed to introduce a new source of light and hope for our country. And we are eager to keep the positive vibes flowing.
comingtoamerica #OutofAfrica #yale #universityofflorida #inauguration2021 #presidentbiden #vicepresidentharris #halo #amandagorman #ladygaga #katyperry #bridgerton #netflix #redroosterovertown
Upendo and Daniel kick off 2021 with their first "Every Thing Is On The Table" episode, where the hosts surprise one another with secret questions that will reveal "the real" Daniel & Upendo. Each host secretly curated questions to ask the other and did not share any questions prior to filming. Also, the hosts are only able to plead the fifth on two questions for the entire episode. Will one of them have to plead the fifth? Which Up & Down Episodes are their personal favorites? What are their fears and insecurities? Why did both hosts have to strip down to their underwear in a parking lot? Does Daniel have daddy issues? What does Upendo think about parenthood? Which host should have been sued for fraud? This episode will keep you laughing, learning and guessing about these two besties. Ups for this episode include a new musical movie, including the film's celebrated director and cast.
Please leave your comments about the show on our YouTube and podcast pages, including Apple Music and Spotify. Upendo and Daniel want to hear from you. What other questions do you have for them? And what other topics would you like for the show to showcase?
bestfriends #ryanmurphy #theprom #merylstreep #comedy #talkshow #generationx
*This episode was recorded on December 21, 2020, prior to the storming of the US Capitol on January 6, 2021. Therefore, our first episode of the new year does not address the condemnable attacks to our democracy. The Up & Down Show prays that our country will rise above the failed insurrection and continue to heal toward peace and justice for all.
Upendo and Daniel sit down with Upendo's neighbor who just happens to be a world class bar chef and soon-to-be television star. Meet Bill Binder, who many are calling the "Anthony Bourdain of Whiskey." Learn how this local bartender turned a job slinging drinks in his family’s bar (frequented by Bill the Kid no less) into a newfound career that celebrates his passions for golf, cigars and brown liquor. Be one of the first to learn about Bill’s upcoming television series, Binders Stash, that follows him as he travels the country, touring small and large distilleries and educating us on the subtleties of whiskey. Published in Forbes Magazine for his craft cocktails, this talented mixologist created a local whiskey bar in Palm Beach County that was named “Best Bourbon Bar in America” by Bourbon Review. And though he has officially retired from working behind the bar, Bill shakes out his leather apron once again for the hosts, as he teaches us how to make the perfect Old Fashioned. With a gorgeous beard and smile made for Instagram, this handsome, funny and engaging storyteller proves to be the perfect sparing mate for the Up & Down hosts. For more information visit www.bindersstash.com or follow Bill on Instagram at @bindersstash.
whiskey #billbinder #bindersstash #oldfashioned #golf #beard #thebeardedvillains #italian #billythekid #mixologist #barchef #bartender #tvhost
Upendo and Daniel review two controversial films in the news: Cuties (a polarizing film about a group of preteen girls' sexual awakening in this modern time of social media) and The Social Dilemma (Netflix's chilling documentary about how big tech companies are purposefully using computer science and psychology to anticipate and control our real life behaviors and interests). Are you scared yet? Is Cuties artistic messaging or a dangerous exploitation of young girls? Remember Taxi Driver? Pretty Baby? The Blue Lagoon? We do. Let's talk about it. And, as expected, the hosts relate these pop culture topics back to their own lives? Which one of the hosts overshares this time? Will Daniel and Upendo take a break from social media after learning the truth about the very real dark web? You'll have to check out this episode to know. Ups in this episode include a new beauty product and two apps that will save you time and have you dancing and singing in your living rooms.
cuties #thesocialdilemma #netflixs #socialmedia #beautyproducts #starbucks #broadwayhd #overshare #brookeshields #thebluelagoon #prettybaby #taxidriver #jodiefoster
Daniel and Upendo get personal about their own racial identities. The only rule for this episode was "keep things close and specific to our own experiences." In an effort to model that talking about race doesn't have to be scary, the hosts surprise each other with unplanned questions, stories and topics around this issue. The episode takes a winding, labyrinth of a road toward deeper discoveries for both of them. How have recent events heightened their own identities? What does it mean to be "not black enough? " Is there a difference between the black experience and the biracial experience? What is Black Pride? Is it ok to have White Pride? How does race intersect with sexual identity? The hosts unpack these and other topics, and they try to explain the difference between Cultural Appropriation vs. Cultural Appreciation. No one is safe, including: Adele, Nancy Pelosi, Justin Timberlake, Christina Aguilera and Linda Ronstadt. Ups for this episode include Chadwick Boseman, a local company promoting the Black Lives Matter movement, new COVID testing sites, and a new black entrepreneur in the family.
Link to Daniel's article for Yale Spizzwinks: https://tinyurl.com/YSAA-08-2020-Gibson
ModernizingMedicine #LilyEssentialsandWellness #race #family #culturalappropriation #culturalappreciation #Adele #essentialoils #ChadwickBoseman #CVS #covidtest #blackbusinesses #cousins #spizzwinks #yale
Lily Essentials & Wellness Contact:
Website: https://lilyessentialsandwellness.lifestepseo.com
Instagram Page: @essentialslily
Facebook Page: @Lily Essentials and Wellness
Upendo and Daniel welcome their first-ever on-camera guest, Joshua Gibson. Daniel's younger brother visits the show to share how he has turned his life around and reclaimed his future. Hear personal family stories, including what brought Joshua to Florida in 2017, allowing these two to get to know one another better than they every knew they could. This is a special family episode that highlights a brotherly bond that has overcome injustices, incarcerations, bad decisions and a few wild nights in South Beach and Key West. Help us celebrate as we bid "Bon Voyage" to one of Daniel's personal heroes. Ups for this episode include a local nonprofit and Upendo's favorite place to pick flowers.
brothers #returningcitizens #reentry #love #thelordsplace #blacklivesmatter #father #flowers
Daniel and Upendo dissect Cardi B's song of the summer, WAP, and ponder whether or not the song represents "Women's Empowerment" or just "Women's Entrapment." The song, which features rapper Megan Thee Stallion, took over the airwaves and watercoolers (or at least our zoom Happy Hours) this summer. Is this new art, or just rehashed sexuality used for shock value? The hosts also get into Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith's personal "Entanglement" this summer, after the Hollywood couple openly talked about their marital indiscretions. Is monogamy normal? Is Cardi B the new Millie Jackson, the new Madonna, or the new Gloria Steinem? Ups for this episode include a salty summer snack (and new tongue twister) and a new diet hack!
CardiB #WAP #somersaultlifecompany #noom #entanglement #JadaPinkettSmith #WillSmith
Upendo and Daniel celebrate their birthdays and the launching of Season 2 of The Up & Down Show. The hosts celebrate this new chapter by revisiting some of the highlights and unanswered questions from their first season of episodes, including: Did Upendo ever watch a movie musical, and did she ever purchase a gun? And, what television show did the hosts predict would sweep this year's Emmy Awards? The hosts also discuss their new commitment to find love this year, sharing their truths about dating during COVID-19, and what they each are looking for in a mate. Ups for this episode include a new album by a hot Texas duo, and a special new beauty product.
Daniel and Upendo discuss Daniel's new plant-based diet, including why he has started changing the way he eats, and some new fun recipes he has been trying. The hosts also compare two criminal justice stories recently in our headlines, debating what role racism had in the final verdicts. They compare the documentary "Filthy Rich" (about white billionaire Jeffery Epstein's crimes against young women) to the movie "Just Mercy" (about black lawyer/activist Bryan Stevenson's career defending poor inmates wrongly convicted). Ups include a new black movie and a self-help book. (Recorded June 13, 2020)
The Up & Down is available on YouTube, Apple Music, Spotify, Instagram, FaceBook and Twitter
plantbased #justmercy #filthyrich #BryanStevenson #JeffreyEpstein #insecurities #friends #cholesterol #weightlose #countingcalories #Netflix #GameChanger #healthliving #herbivore #carnivore #popcorn #bacon #justicereform #documentary #PrinceAndrews #BillClinton #Trump #privilege #humantrafficking #fishiness #uncorked #PrenticePenny #thefouragreements #DonMiguelRuiz
Daniel & Upendo visit one of Upendo's new favorite restaurants as businesses start to reopen post COVID-19. They also discuss the cult classic sitcom, Schitt's Creek. A "MUST-LISTEN-TO" FOR ANY SCHITT'S CREEK FAN! (We promise, no spoilers in this episode if you haven't watched the final season). And, finally, the hosts celebrate the allies in their lives who have helped promote diversity, equity and inclusion in this world.
schittscreek #LGBT #sexinthecity #danlevy #frenchrestaurant #moira #ladygaga #beautysecrets #spascriptions
Catch This Episodes (and all episodes) on Apple Music & YouTube:
Apple Music: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-up-down-show/id1516688968
YouTube: https://youtu.be/THfODHg9Jow
Upendo and Daniel have a robust conversation on the 2020 Presidential election including who will be Joe Biden's Vice President pick. The hosts share key tips on how to get ready to vote in 2020. And the two reflect on the beauty of friendship. Ups include a current, growing media mogul and a new YouTube show.
registertovote #JoeBiden #Friends #votingrights #votebymail #issarae #insecure #friends #2020getoutthevote #Diversity #Gen X #votethemotherfuckerout #HBO #ReturningCitizens #PeteButtigieg #RunningMate #HilaryClinton #misadventuresofanawkwardblackgirl #Senegal #JoshGad #ReunitedApart
Daniel and Upendo reach another milestone in this new frontier, interviewing their first in-studio guest, Larry Patrick, a well-respected, successful investment banker and partner with PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers International Limited). Learn how this South Florida native overcame personal life challenges to become one of the most successful men that Upendo knows. Larry's inspirational life story covers the importance of leadership, family, resiliency, dreaming and trusting your gut. And he shares his top professional tips for how we can all make our money make money for us.
stockmarket, #mba, #entrepreneurs, #westpalmbeach, #investmentbanking, #larrypatrick, #investinyourself
Daniel and Upendo unpack the impact of the "Cancel Culture" in today's social and political climate. Where do you stand on this movement? How is this movement impacting our community? RIP to the TV show "Cops". The two also discuss their summer plans which include, traveling, budgeting, visiting family and watching musicals. And Daniel starts a new diet. Ups include a new album and beverage for the summer.
Lovers of traveling and free airline-perks, Upendo and Daniel bemoan the impact of COVID-19 on their personal and professional traveling plans. We get a little insight into the traveling, learning and networking agendas of professional social workers who work on developing systemic-change initiatives. They also remember their first experiences dining at Michelin Star restaurants oversee. Upendo and Daniel dream about where they will travel post-COVID. And Greg speaks for the first time!
Daniel and Upendo both commit to learning foreign languages. The hosts remember their high school and college senior years, comparing their experiences to this year's virtual graduations and proms, including their reactions to former President Barack Obama's virtual commencement speech. Upendo and Daniel also flirt with the idea of talking about relationships, and ponder what others might think of their new show.
Daniel & Upendo confront racism head on, reflecting on George Floyd's death, police brutality, justice reform and how we as a society are responding. The show also pays tribute to gay icon and activist trailblazer, Larry Kramer. The hosts discuss life during the first stages of COVID-19 recovery. And they introduce a new segment - "What's Up." Each episode, both hosts will recommend one special, current "Up" in their life. This episode, the hosts recommend a new favorite restaurant and a celebrity's secret recipe.
SPECIAL NOTE: This episode was taped May 29, 2020, four days after George Floyd's death and at the very beginning of what has since become this generation's greatest social movement toward equity and justice. Though we don't know where 2020 will lead us, we do know that we cannot go backwards. This episode is dedicated to every George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, Corey Jones, Trayvon Martin (the list goes on), any one who has lost their lives at the hands of a broken criminal justice system. We must use our voices for good. We can't be silent anymore. We must be the change we desire in this world.
theupanddownshow #blacklivesmatter #saytheirnames #endracism #iamgeorgefloyd
Daniel & Upendo discuss the recent shooting death of Ahmaud Arbery in Georgia, and the justice system's slow response to his death. Upendo considers getting a license to carry. And both hosts reminisce about some of the highlights of being a member of the Generation X.
Daniel and Upendo introduce themselves and the show in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.