Seen

After 5 seasons of beautiful, Black excellence, dazzling visuals, a soundtrack that just won’t quit, and laughs to last forever, our beloved comedy series has ended. In this spoiler-laden episode, Nic and Lala chat about their biggest takeaways and lessons learned from watching Issa Rae’s HBO series. Song of the week: Insecure by Bryson Tiller & Jazmine Sullivan

In this last episode of 2021, Nic and Lala reflect on the last six months of extreme weather and natural disasters in so-called BC, and the feelings of grief, overwhelm, and impending doom that has come with them. They explore what it means to cope under these conditions, and how to keep ahold of both the precariousness and preciousness of life. Song of the week: Made of Gold by Ibeyi

Simple words spoken to us in childhood can create lasting imprints on how we take up space, and the lessons of unlikely teachers can drastically alter the path of every relationship we have. In this episode, Nic and Lala share some of the most impactful teachings and teachers in their life. Song of the week: Appletree by Erykah Badu

In this episode, Nic and Lala discuss their respective wishes for acceptance and peace, what makes these states elusive, and the paradox of living inside and outside of what we have and what we long for at the same damn time. Song of the week: The Other Side by Jazmine Sullivan

In this episode, Nic and Lala share what it has meant to them and how they engage and plan to sustain decolonization as a lifelong committed practice. song of the week: Zombie by Fela Kuti

What do you keep hidden? What secrets, desires or parts of yourself would you prefer to tuck away into the crevices of shame? In this episode, Nic and Lala tap into their vulnerability and speak on the areas of their life that, when brought into the light, can be examined, understood and transformed.  Song of the week: Don't Judge Me by Janelle Monáe

Whether we care to admit it or not, most of us resonate with a deep desire to be loved, accepted and cherished. But in practice, much can get in the way of receiving the love we so deserve. In this episode, Nic and Lala explore what it means to be loved in all ways, and from all directions. Song of the week: Ex-Factor by Lauryn Hill

What do we risk when we enter conflicts in our friendships? And what do we risk when we avoid them? In this episode, Nic and Lala explore fear and vulnerability by discussing trust, conflict, and hurt in their own friendship. Song of the week: Best Friend by Pharrell

Personal healing and collective liberation work is taxing, and in the midst of this labour, our ability to take a break and feel some respite can become a luxury. So what can we use to keep us afloat? In this episode, Nic and Lala talk about what cultivating sacred presence, striking balance, and showing up in our own lives—for ourselves—can afford us. Song of the week: Just Fine by Mary J. Blige

As the world celebrates Pride month, Nic and Lala trace the evolution of Pride from a radical liberation movement to what often feels like a depoliticized corporate party, and call for Two-Spirit, queer and trans BIPOC to regain our rightful place as leaders of Pride movements. Song of the week: Crazy Classic Life by Janelle Monae