Ian Von sits down with multi-hyphenate artist Trevor Jackson for a raw, high-energy conversation about passion, artistry, and survival through creativity. They trace Trevor’s journey from tap-dancing kid in Indianapolis to Broadway’s The Lion King, Disney, Grown-ish, Superfly, and his evolution into a fearless, genre-blending recording artist.

Trevor opens up about how acting and music are “survival tools” that keep him sane, why effort and passion are frowned upon in this era, and how he’s determined to bring them back front and center. He breaks down the real-life heartbreak and physical injury that birthed his new three-part project, starting with the EP I Love You, and why he calls the full album “I Love You, Goodbye: The Greatest Breakup Album of All Time.”

From Brian McKnight, Boyz II Men, Prince and D’Angelo to country songwriting and BigXthaPlug, Trevor walks through his influences, his independence with UnitedMasters, and his frustration with the current streaming economy that undervalues music. They also get into Black men and grief, the illusion of limited “spots” for Black artists, and what it really looks like to stay authentic while navigating Hollywood and the music industry.

The episode closes with Trevor answering fan questions (including from Ian’s daughter), reflecting on Grown-ish and Grey’s Anatomy, and sharing his dream role: Silver Surfer in a full origin story.

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