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The Friend Zone

Podcast / Show

Listen along every Wednesday as Dustin Ross, Hey Fran Hey & Assanté explore mental health, mental wealth and mental hygiene, because who…

by Loud Speakers Network

Part of the Loud Speakers Network network.

The Friend Zone

About The Friend Zone

Listen along every Wednesday as Dustin Ross, Hey Fran Hey & Assanté explore mental health, mental wealth and mental hygiene, because who in the hell wants a musty brain? Send inquiries and questions to: [email protected] #TheFriendZone

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Episodes

New episodes usually drop on Wednesdays.Latest 200 episodes in the feed
  1. Oct 28, 2026 · 2 hr 25 min

    The Pointer Sister

    This week on #TheFriendZone, we explore the tragic and horrific end of Alishah Pointer's life in East Cleveland, Ohio.

  2. Oct 21, 2026 · 3 hr 39 min

    Girl In The Picture

    This week on #TheFriendZone, we discuss Girl in the Picture - a Netflix original documentary film about the 1990 murder of a 20 yr. old woman and the twists and turns it took to find her identity. The film is based on the books A Beautiful Child and Finding Sharon by Matt Birkbeck, who also serves as executive producer. Directed by Skye Borgman.

  3. Oct 14, 2026 · 1 hr 35 min

    Sophia Home Now

    This week on #TheFriendZone, it's a shoot the sh*t episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.

  4. Oct 7, 2026 · 2 hr 54 min

    A Gathering of Fools

    This week on #TheFriendZone, it's officially Spooky Season! Assanté kicks it off by giving us the rundown on the Circleville Letters, small town family secrets and an unsolved mystery.

  5. Sep 30, 2026 · 3 hr 6 min

    A Burner Wig

    This week on #TheFriendZone, we catch up on the latest headlines and Hot Topics.

Earlier episodes (195)
  1. Sep 23, 2026 All For One and One For All
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we share our thoughts, research and disappointment around the discourse on Nikole Hannah-Jones' article in The New York Times - "In Fighting for Every Black Child, Did I Betray My Own?"
  2. Sep 16, 2026 Black Is Beauty
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it's a shoot the sh*t episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  3. Sep 9, 2026 Big Lotts
    This week on #TheFriendZone, from the Teeth to the Streets - a discussion focusing on cameras tracking everything from cavities to cars and the invasiveness of it all.
  4. Sep 2, 2026 A Sensory Experience - Featuring The Edges & Everything Podcast
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we welcome Dr. Lauren Seale-Sarkipato and Dr. Moriah Brewer, hosts of the new podcast Edges & Everything, to discuss their holistic evaluation of the impact of hair loss, not only as a personal problem, but also in its social impact.
  5. Aug 26, 2026 We Love You, Dolly
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we piggyback off of last week's celebration of 11 years of content creation by also sharing silent L's, failed projects and mistakes we've made along the way.
  6. Aug 19, 2026 Well Come On Then.
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it's a shoot the sh*t episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  7. Aug 12, 2026 Black Movie Table Talk
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we discuss movies featuring Black actors, roles and scripts - and what happens when representation gets complicated.
  8. Aug 5, 2026 Singing A Ransom Note
    This week on #TheFriendZone, there are things that you need to know, and Dustin's going to make sure that you do. It's time for this week's hot topics. Hop in, Friends! Let's talk about people!
  9. Jul 29, 2026 The Binge - Unlocked: Family Secrets [Patreon Preview]
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we're sharing some of our exclusive Patreon content! Take a listen to The Binge - our TV + Film recapping series on Patreon - where we discussed Unlocked: Family Secrets on HBO Max. In search of truth and healing, six different families revisit the secrets that have haunted them for generations. On this episode, The Preacher's Secret, a preacher's wife guards a 25 year…
  10. Jul 22, 2026 The Lituation - Phases: A Memoir by Brandy [Patreon Preview]
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we're sharing some of our exclusive Patreon content! Take a listen to an episode of The Lituation - our Book Club - where we discussed Phases: A Memoir by Brandy.
  11. Jul 15, 2026 Peri-Peri Sauce - Featuring Wendy & Jess of Diabetes Digital
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we're joined by our favorite Registered Dietitians - Wendy & Jess of Diabetes Digital to do a mid-year health check-in. We discuss the difference between Perimenopause and Menopause, the recent change from PCOS to PMOS and what it means for your care, Black Women and HRT, Pre-Diabetes and Diabetes, Insulin Resistance, Fibroids, and so much more.
  12. Jul 8, 2026 Wind-Up Teeth
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it's a shoot the sh*t episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  13. Jul 1, 2026 The Museum of You
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we imagine what it would look like to build a museum dedicated to ourselves and the things we'd choose to tell ourselves.
  14. Jun 24, 2026 To Catch A Brick
    This week on #TheFriendZone, a round-up of hot topics, also known as the things you need to be aware of so that you can gossip sufficiently. You’re welcome, with love.
  15. Jun 17, 2026 Twinkles Toes
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we highlight Black and Brown Men's Mental Health by answering questions from the You Good Brand deck of cards. We talk love, heartbreak, friendships, good memories vs bad memories, elder wisdom and more.
  16. Jun 10, 2026 A Ramp To Crazy
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it's a shoot the sh*t episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  17. Jun 8, 2026 The Internet Is Down
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we discuss the internet as a necessity. From AI and connected technology to convenience, adaptation, and everyday life online, we ask: what are we actually looking for when we log on?
  18. May 27, 2026 High Heel Chanclas
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we show support to those who need the laughs after dealing with their family all day at the Memorial Day cookout and/or events. Dustin brings us this week's hilarious HOT TOPICS. You are welcome, and seen.
  19. May 20, 2026 We Called The Lady - Featuring Crissle's Couch
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we’re joined by Crissle West of the Crissle’s Couch podcast. We talk all things Dr. Cheyenne Bryant, NatureBoy and Cults, Caterpillar Netflix and the Compliance Film.
  20. May 13, 2026 The Kids Are Alright
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it's a shoot the sh*t episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  21. May 6, 2026 A Medical Read
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we're revisiting Carbon Nation after watching Hulu's The Cult of NatureBoy. What once looked like freedom and community reveals a deeper story of control, manipulation, and how it all began.
  22. Apr 29, 2026 DY-NO-MITE!
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we're talking Pop Culture! The news cycle moves fast, but Dustin moves faster. He catches us up on all of the hottest topics that he believes we need to know about, and it goes exactly how you think it will.
  23. Apr 22, 2026 Que Sera, Sera
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we discuss Caterpillar on Netflix. Caterpillar is a documentary that follows David, a 50 yr old man from Miami, on a journey to India for a non-FDA-approved surgery to permanently change his eye color. Directed by Liza Mandelup, the documentary explores themes of colorism, transphobia, self-image, insecurity and the desperate need to be seen.
  24. Apr 15, 2026 Old Time At The Apollo
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it's a shoot the sh*t episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  25. Apr 8, 2026 The GMV
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we're talking about what happens when you do everything right...but life still feels unclear? Did success change, or are we just figuring it out in real time?
  26. Apr 1, 2026 Everybody Gettin Veleers
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we have lots to cover. Buckle up as Dustin brings us up to speed by discussing all the latest Hot Topics.
  27. Mar 25, 2026 Lemme Find Out - Featuring Tiffany "The Budgetnista" Aliche
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we’re joined by Financial Educator and New York Times Best-Selling author - Tiffany “The Budgetnista” Aliche. We talk about “this economy”, how budgeting alone is not enough, how to make steady money decisions during economic uncertainty, practical shifts that reduce financial anxiety, ethical investing and the 10 pillars of financial wholeness. We also answer listener questions!
  28. Mar 18, 2026 Put Him In A Headlock
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it's a shoot the sh*t episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  29. Mar 11, 2026 Negro, Thou Art Loosed
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we explore the psychology of time - why years feel longer when we’re young and why adulthood can make life blur together. We reflect on school vs adult life and discuss how creating new memories, learning skills and trying new experiences can help life feel fuller.
  30. Mar 4, 2026 The Braid of Wisdom
    This week on #TheFriendZone, Bible Study is back! We have a lesson in love from the book of Genesis. Female Hip Hop, The Traitors, and The Bible have something in common, and Dustin tells us exactly what that is.
  31. Feb 26, 2026 The Lost Histories of Black Inventors
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we close out the last week of Black History Month with a discussion around Mr. Walter Johnson AKA Mr. Tendernism, Uncle Nearest and the ways the Government, racism and violence have suppressed Black innovation and economic progress.
  32. Feb 18, 2026 Hugging A Barnacle
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it's a shoot the sh*t episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  33. Feb 11, 2026 Leave A Voicemail
    This week on #TheFriendZone , we continue our Black History Month Celebrations! We explore who really preserves Black history, what gets lost when stories aren’t recorded and how everyday people, not just institutions, keep our culture alive. We end with a simple challenge to preserve one piece of personal history before it fades.
  34. Feb 4, 2026 Black Bottom and Paradise Valley
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we celebrate Black History Month! THE WORDS BLACK BOTTOM HAVE ALWAYS BEEN A GOOD THING. We look back at the rich Black History of the now defunct Detroit neighborhoods Black Bottom and Paradise Valley.
  35. Jan 28, 2026 Year of the Fire Horse
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we share our thoughts on how 2026 has unfolded thus far. And how our sense of self, goals and hopes for the year have been impacted.
  36. Jan 21, 2026 We Back!
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we're back from Winter Break! It's a shoot the sh*t episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  37. Dec 31, 2025 Best of 2025 - The Friend Zone
    Surprise! It's a bonus episode of The Friend Zone! We asked you to share your favorite moments of the year and we put it all together to make a "Best of 2025" bonus for the holidays. The Friend Zone returns Wednesday, January 21, 2026.
  38. Dec 24, 2025 Living Kringle - Living Single S1E15 [Patreon Teaser]
    The Binge is our weekly TV & Film recap series on Patreon. This month on #TheBinge, we're revisiting the Christmas episodes of our favorite Black Television shows.
  39. Dec 17, 2025 Pastors In Stem - The 2025 Wrap-Up
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s the final episode of the year. We take a look back at 2025 - from the community rallying together during the LA Wildfires, Armon’s Diddy coverage on YouTube to Patti LuPone getting cursed out for 15 min straight as an intro! We also take note of the range of conversations we contributed to the Podcast Landscape.
  40. Dec 10, 2025 Chick'n & Popsicle Sticks
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it's a shoot the sh*t episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  41. Dec 3, 2025 Ten Years Black
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we look back at the last 10 years of Black Television & Film.
  42. Nov 26, 2025 A Pin In Karrin
    This week on #TheFriendZone, Dustin walks us through the landmark case of Brenay Kennard in North Carolina.
  43. Nov 19, 2025 The Midnight Library
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we discuss decisions and circumstances that shifted our trajectory and daydream about alternate lives.
  44. Nov 12, 2025 Married At Losing Sight
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it's a shoot the sh*t episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  45. Nov 5, 2025 Mouth And Heigth
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we discuss the latest AI, Robot and tech developments.
  46. Oct 29, 2025 A Briefcase of Spaghetti
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s the end of our 2025 Spooky Season! An intersection of Bible Study and The Crime Zone.
  47. Oct 22, 2025 Apartment 603
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we’re still in the Crime Zone. Death In Apartment 603 - What Happened to Ellen Greenberg?
  48. Oct 15, 2025 The Heavy Show
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it's a shoot the sh*t episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  49. Oct 8, 2025 The Multiple Mysteries of Marina Ramos
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s another Crime Zone episode! The Multiple Mysteries of Marina Ramos.
  50. Oct 1, 2025 Three Hots And A Got
    This month on #TheFriendZone, we’re officially in our spooky season! We kick off Crime Zone October with the case of The Caldwell Triple Homicide.
  51. Sep 24, 2025 Caught Up In The Rapture
    This week on #TheFriendZone, you asked us the questions and we answered them! The Q&A episode.
  52. Sep 17, 2025 Do It For The Vine
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it's a shoot the sh*t episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  53. Sep 10, 2025 I Got Your Number Hussy
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we talk Unknown Number: The High School Catfish documentary on Netflix.
  54. Sep 3, 2025 Don't Be A Bridget
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we talk TikTok story times, a lack of professionalism and AI customer service.
  55. Aug 27, 2025 Solomon Springer Povich
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we’re having Bible Study. The Story of Solomon and The Baby.
  56. Aug 21, 2025 Shoutout To Everybody, I Had Fun
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we're celebrating 10 years! Join us on our trip down memory lane.
  57. Aug 13, 2025 Hit Her With A Baguette
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it's a shoot the sh*t episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  58. Aug 6, 2025 Phone Rotting
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we assess our digital spending habits.
  59. Jul 30, 2025 Just The Fartsy
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we discuss the month’s Hot Topics.
  60. Jul 23, 2025 Crab Legs & Karaoke
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we’re back from break and doing a mid-year mental health check-in.
  61. Jul 16, 2025 The Binge - Forever Netflix S1E1 Recap [Patreon Teaser]
    This month on #TheBinge, we're watching Forever Netflix - An American Teen Drama television series adaptation of the book Forever by Judy Blume. Created and Directed by Mara Brock Akil. Join us for a sneak peek into S1E1 of our full series recap available now on Patreon.
  62. Jul 9, 2025 The Binge - Sinners Recap [Patreon Teaser]
    In honor of the Sinners film joining streaming services this week, we're publishing a teaser of our Patreon recap from May 2025.
  63. Jul 2, 2025 Burning Zipper
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it's a shoot the shit episode. No Hot Button. No Segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  64. Jun 25, 2025 Future-Proof or Foolish
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we talk Future-Proofing?
  65. Jun 18, 2025 Dirty Old Man
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we talk the month’s Hot Topics.
  66. Jun 12, 2025 Chickens For KFC
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we vent about this shit show of an Administration and share some theories.
  67. Jun 4, 2025 Saying "My Husband" Is Crazy
    This week on #TheFriendZone it’s a shoot the shit episode. No Hot Button. No Segments. Just whatever comes up. Brace yourself.
  68. May 29, 2025 Blue Ribbon Beauty Queen
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we talk AI…relationships?
  69. May 21, 2025 Types of 'Pecia - Featuring Dr. Lauren Seale-Sarkipato
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we’re joined by Dr. Lauren Seale-Sarkipato (Dustin’s cousin!) to talk about the horrific history of racism in the field of Dermatology.
  70. May 14, 2025 A Low Maintenance Friendship
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we talk low maintenance friendships. Is the "low maintenance friend" just code for the lazy, neglectful friend?
  71. May 7, 2025 In This Dancery
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s a shoot the shit episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  72. Apr 30, 2025 Aging Out Loud
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we talk aging, evolving and preparing for our next steps.
  73. Apr 23, 2025 From A Vehicle
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we talk the month’s Hot Topics.
  74. Apr 16, 2025 Fantasiaba
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we talk hyper-consumerism, dopamine hits and viral TikTok products.
  75. Apr 9, 2025 Black Or White
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s a shoot the shit episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  76. Apr 2, 2025 That Must Be A New One
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we talk Main Character Syndrome.
  77. Mar 26, 2025 Moved To Chorus
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we talk the month’s Hot Topics.
  78. Mar 19, 2025 Stacked Like Jenga - Featuring Jade & XD
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we’re joined by Jade of All Jades and Xavier D’Leau of the Jade & XD Podcast to discuss the woes of Adulting.
  79. Mar 12, 2025 Rent-A-Man
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s a shoot the shit episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  80. Mar 5, 2025 Heavy Conversation
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we talk Fatphobia.
  81. Feb 26, 2025 The Embattled Housewife
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we talk Hot Topics.
  82. Feb 19, 2025 Assigned Meaning
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we talk about the challenging “rug pull” moments of life and whether or not we assign deeper meaning to them.
  83. Feb 12, 2025 Shoulda Been Passed
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it's a shoot the shit episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  84. Feb 5, 2025 Her Neck, Her Back, Her Van
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we talk a little tech, a little music and a lot of TV.
  85. Jan 29, 2025 Love Your Family
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we’re attending Bible Study. The Sortie of Schechem.
  86. Jan 22, 2025 Older Women Having A Good Time
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we share our energy forecast for 2025 and whether or not our Government’s recent stunts shifted our view of the year.
  87. Jan 15, 2025 John Leguizamo
    We're baaaaack! We're easing into a New Year of #TheFriendZone with a shoot the shit episode.
  88. Dec 18, 2024 Best of 2024 - The Friend Zone
    Surprise! It's a bonus episode of The Friend Zone! We asked you to share your favorite moments of the year and we put it all together to make a "Best of The Friend Zone 2024" episode for the holidays.
  89. Dec 11, 2024 But Then The Lamp Looked Weird - The 2024 Wrap-Up
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s our last episode of the year! Half of the episode is a shoot the shit and the other half is a 2024 Wrap-Up. We’ll miss you <3 Happy Holidays!
  90. Dec 4, 2024 I Had To Hear Her Sing That Song
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s a shoot the shit episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  91. Nov 27, 2024 Game Is Blind
    This week on #TheFriendZone, Assanté gets in his gamer bag.
  92. Nov 20, 2024 Wok It Out
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we take a deeper look into Elon Musk and the changes happening over on Twitter/X.
  93. Nov 13, 2024 Picking Up Steam
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we talk mental health, community and practical resistance strategies under a Trump Presidency.
  94. Nov 7, 2024 Woo Woo WAP
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s a shoot the shit episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  95. Oct 30, 2024 American Nightmare
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s our last Crime Zone episode of the season. After a harrowing home invasion and kidnapping in 2015, Denise Huskins and Aaron Quinn are accused of staging the ordeal when the woman reappears. American Nightmare.
  96. Oct 23, 2024 Kegels for Caleb
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s a Crime Zone x Bible Study mashup. Cutting Up - The Levite and the Concubine. Judges 19-21.
  97. Oct 16, 2024 The Chilling Story of Mark and Donnah Winger
    It’s officially Spooky Season!! This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s a Crime Zone episode. We walk through the chilling story of Mark & Donnah Winger of Springfield, Illinois.
  98. Oct 9, 2024 Baddies Reunion
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s a shoot the shit episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  99. Oct 2, 2024 Delulu Lemon
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we’re updated on the rapidly evolving state of Artificial Intelligence.
  100. Sep 25, 2024 Ruth And Boaz: Love After Elimelech Up
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we step into our Bible Studies. The Story of Ruth And Boaz.
  101. Sep 18, 2024 Parable of the Huckabees
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we discuss collective restlessness and the belief systems of Nihilism and Absurdism.
  102. Sep 11, 2024 I Need A Man
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s a shoot the shit episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  103. Sep 4, 2024 Prescription Gum
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we step into Reddit’s AITA (Am I The Asshole) forum.
  104. Aug 28, 2024 Living La Pinga Loca
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we discuss the month’s Hot Topics.
  105. Aug 21, 2024 Hello From The Other Side
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we talk wearing shorts to a job interview and whether or not there’s a time and a place to conform to societal norms. And…cucumbers?
  106. Aug 14, 2024 The Misinformation of Lauryn Hill
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s a shoot the shit episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  107. Aug 7, 2024 Baddie&apos;s Triage
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we unpack some of our current fears. Big and small.
  108. Jul 31, 2024 Sound Selector - Featuring Shaun Ross
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we&apos;re joined by Model, Musician, DJ and founder of the Stardust party series - Shaun Ross.
  109. Jul 25, 2024 Pickleback Pedi
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we discuss the good, the bad and the Kamala Harris.
  110. Jul 17, 2024 The Negro Solstice
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s a shoot the shit episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  111. Jun 26, 2024 Protect Your Magic
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we discuss the future of AI and Music.
  112. Jun 20, 2024 Gay All My Life
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we talk about Col. Edward Thomas Ryan and a family secret he exposed in his obituary.
  113. Jun 12, 2024 Drunk Bar Lies
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we engage in a mid-year mental health check-in.
  114. Jun 5, 2024 The Lesser of Two Evils
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s a shoot the shit episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  115. May 29, 2024 Gayle King Magazine
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we talk about our relationship to working and making money.
  116. May 22, 2024 Slut Walk of Shame
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we cover the month’s Hot Topics.
  117. May 15, 2024 Black and Autistic - Featuring Supernova Momma and FroBabies
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we talk about the experience of growing up Black and Autistic. We’re joined by Natasha Nelson of Supernova Momma and Kanika Negist of FroBabies.
  118. May 8, 2024 Read The Room
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s a shoot the shit episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  119. May 1, 2024 The Gato Got To Go
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we discuss the different types of spaces we’ve lived in, how we’re living now and what kinds of homes + lifestyles we’re looking forward to as we grow older.
  120. Apr 24, 2024 The Blackest Love
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we discuss the month’s Hot Topics.
  121. Apr 17, 2024 Trim Spa, Baby - Featuring Wendy & Jess of Food Heaven
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we’re joined by Wendy & Jess of Food Heaven and the Diabetes Digital Podcast. We discuss the link between stress/poor sleep and autoimmune disease, why Black & Brown people are showing higher rates of diabetes, Ozempic, Doctors and Fatphobia, PCOS, Perimenopause, binge eating, intermittent fasting and much much more.
  122. Apr 10, 2024 Is It Broccoli or Broccolini?
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s a shoot the shit episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  123. Apr 3, 2024 She&apos;s 7:30
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we head over to Reddit for AITA (Am I The Asshole) posts.
  124. Mar 27, 2024 The Little Black Dress of Churches
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we discuss the Hot Topics.
  125. Mar 20, 2024 What About The Children
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we discuss 3-part investigative docuseries The Program: Cons, Cults & Kidnapping on Netflix.
  126. Mar 13, 2024 As A Concept
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s a shoot the shit episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  127. Mar 6, 2024 Bia Pablo
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we share our thoughts on Black Cult Leader, Nature Boy - Eligio Bishop, and his Carbon Nation.
  128. Feb 28, 2024 And That&apos;s on Eric Mays
    This week on #TheFriendZone we tap into our Bible Studies. The Story of Samson and Delilah. Black Business of the Week - Girls Auto Clinic https://www.girlsautoclinic.com #ListensLately: Quavo, Takeoff, Gucci Mane - Us vs Them The Guess Who - These Eyes Bossman Dlow - Get In With Me Rob49 & Lil Wayne - Wassam Baby Quavo - Himothy Isaiah Falls - Florida Baby Naomi Sharon - Definition of Love SZA - Saturn Thank you…
  129. Feb 22, 2024 Click Your Bic
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we share our thoughts on the “Bed Rotting” trend sweeping the internet.
  130. Feb 14, 2024 Santorini Photo Shoots
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s a shoot the shit episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  131. Feb 7, 2024 The Neighborhood Tech
    This week on #TheFriendZone, Assanté creeps out Fran and Dustin with a conversation about the new tech updates showcased at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024.
  132. Jan 31, 2024 FUPS
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we have A LOT to cover. The hosts discuss the month’s Hot Topics.
  133. Jan 24, 2024 Backpack Rapper
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we discuss people losing their hard earned jobs, families and lives for discussing their political and religious beliefs publicly. How much would you be willing to lose to speak up? The hosts share their opposing views.
  134. Jan 17, 2024 Big Black Wins
    This week on #TheFriendZone - we’re back!! The hosts talk about their month off and tap into the pop culture topics they missed.
  135. Dec 13, 2023 I Wanna Thank Me - The 2023 Wrap-Up
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s the 2023 wrap-up. Our last episode of the year! We look back at the conversations we brought to the media landscape, reflect on the year as a whole and share our hopes for 2024.
  136. Dec 6, 2023 Baddies Mesopotamia
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we tap into our #BibleStories. Listen to The Story of Abraham & Isaac.
  137. Nov 29, 2023 Holiday Hooch
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s a Music Man episode! A look back at the year in music.
  138. Nov 22, 2023 Topanga
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s a shoot the shit episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  139. Nov 15, 2023 Doo Doo Brown
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we talk about not affording school lunch as kids, being embarrassed by thrifting, the unhoused communities in our neighborhoods and taxes.
  140. Nov 8, 2023 Covenant Eyes
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we discuss Hot Topics.
  141. Nov 1, 2023 Mounds Don&apos;t
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we talk about unprofessional customer service.
  142. Oct 25, 2023 Old As A Hill
    This week on #TheFriendZone , it’s a shoot the shit episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself. Thank you to our Sponsors: This episode is sponsored by Target - Lock in with Target with Homecoming season and beyond at https://www.target.com/c/black-owned-or-founded-brands-at-target/-/N-q8v16 HelloFresh - Go to https://www.hellofresh.com/FRIENDZONEFREE and use code…
  143. Oct 20, 2023 Bridge The Gap - A Bonus Episode Sponsored By Target
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we&apos;re bringing you a bonus episode sponsored by Target! In support of Season II of Illuminating Intersectionality, we discuss the "social distancing" and "othering" that can take place between Black Americans and Foreign Born Black people and how we bridge the gap.
  144. Oct 18, 2023 And What I Know About You
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we wrap up our Crime Zone season. The mysterious whodunit murder of the Billionaire Sherman Family in Canada.
  145. Oct 11, 2023 A Sunken Disposition
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we’re back in our true crime bag. The Catfishing Case of Brian Hile.
  146. Oct 4, 2023 Been Here Before
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we kick off Spooky Season! We talk reincarnation, near death experiences and children talking to their parents about past lives.
  147. Sep 27, 2023 Selling Sunsets
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s a shoot the shit episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  148. Sep 20, 2023 The Saca I Trust
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we discuss Emmanuel Nwude Odinigwe defrauding Banco Noroeste for $242 million.
  149. Sep 13, 2023 The Friend Contract
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we discuss pop culture topics that examine friendship dynamics.
  150. Sep 7, 2023 3 Damn Grapes
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we do a mental health check-in.
  151. Aug 30, 2023 Her Name Was Beverly Hills
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it&apos;s a shoot the shit episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  152. Aug 23, 2023 The Episode of the Title
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we discuss scammers and their traps.
  153. Aug 16, 2023 Pay Vanna White
    This week on #TheFriendZone , we share our thoughts on this month’s Hot Topics. Black Business of the Week - https://simoneismith.com #ListensLately: Kali Uchis ft El Alfa + JT - Muñekita Dayvi & Joseph Qas - Sax To Me T99zy - I’m Her Ni**a Ice Spice - Butterly Ku No Guidnce - Let It Rain J Hus ft/ Burna Boy - Masculine Follow us online: Twitter - www.twitter.com/friendzonepod Facebook -…
  154. Aug 9, 2023 Proud of the South
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we dig into our rabbit hole of conspiracy theories.
  155. Aug 2, 2023 Ain&apos;t Gon Be No Corn
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s a shoot the shit episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  156. Jul 12, 2023 In The Discovery Phase
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s a shoot the shit episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  157. Jul 5, 2023 A Freaky Ministry
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we talk Sex, Porn and Social Media.
  158. Jun 28, 2023 Say It With Your Whole LaFace
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we discuss this month’s Hot Topics.
  159. Jun 21, 2023 Sisterhood Heels
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we discuss the updates we&apos;ve learned from the 6-part docuseries ‘The Curious Case of Natalia Grace’ on MAX.
  160. Jun 14, 2023 Pancake Pamela
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s a shoot the shit episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  161. Jun 9, 2023 A Piece of Tuna
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we talk all things food. We share our favorite and least favorite meals, candy and desserts.
  162. May 31, 2023 Shout Out To God
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s another installment of #BibleStories. On this episode, we learn the story of Sodom & Gomorrah.
  163. May 24, 2023 A Sunny Day
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we talk about the funny realities of getting older: earlier bed times, not being able to eat whatever we want, longer recovery times after drinking and socializing, and the random back aches and stiff necks.
  164. May 17, 2023 Let Me Know
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s a shoot the shit episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  165. May 10, 2023 AAVE-I
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we discuss the pros and cons (mainly the cons) of AI being integrated into society.
  166. May 3, 2023 Love & Hip Hop Jerusalem
    This week on #TheFriendZone we present Bible Study, with a modern day break down of the story of David and Bathsheba.
  167. Apr 26, 2023 Stolen Youth
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it&apos;s a Crime Zone special. We discuss the shocking case of Larry Ray and the Slonim Woods 9 at Sarah Lawrence College.
  168. Apr 12, 2023 Fruitages of the Spirit
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s a shoot the shit episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  169. Apr 5, 2023 A Mall Walker - Featuring Taylor Hale
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we’re joined by Taylor Hale - the Season 24 winner of Big Brother. A moment for Assanté to Stan!
  170. Mar 29, 2023 A Fence To Be Reckoned With
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we share our thoughts on the feeling of Resentment using the LaTocha Scott vs Xscape feud as the backdrop.
  171. Mar 22, 2023 The Fifth Member
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we discuss our relationship to Anger. Are you quick to anger and flash on people? Is your anger more of a slow simmer? We discuss our experiences processing our Angry emotions and how we interact with the anger of those around us. Black Business of the Week - https://www.goldenjv.com Wellness Segment - Epanouie eye creme https://epanouieskin.com/collections/anti-aging/products/eyecreme…
  172. Mar 15, 2023 A Study On Delusion
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s a shoot the shit episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself.
  173. Mar 8, 2023 Get Your Lick Back
    This week on #TheFriendZone, Assanté walks us through some TikTok and Twitter Street Hot Topics.
  174. Mar 1, 2023 A Practicing Homosexual
    This week on #TheFriendZone, Dustin brings February’s Hot Topics to the Hot Button.
  175. Feb 22, 2023 The Window of Tolerance - Featuring Supernova Momma
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we are joined by Natasha Nelson of Supernova Momma. Early last year, Natasha schooled us on Conscious Parenting and her goal of creating safer, more loving and empathetic black households. This week, we shift the focus from the children and discuss the mental health of Black Parents. Black Business of the Week - https://zurianddre.com Thank you to our Sponsors: Ebay - Ensure your next…
  176. Feb 15, 2023 A Playa On The Playa
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s a shoot the shit episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourself. Thank you to our Sponsors: Ebay - Ebay - Ensure your next purchase is the real deal with eBay’s Authenticity Guarantee. https://www.ebay.com NomNomNow - Go right now for 50% off your no-risk two week trial at https://trynom.com/friendzone Follow us online: Twitter -…
  177. Feb 8, 2023 It&apos;s Giving Coke
    This week on #TheFriendZone, Assanté walks us through the story of Marie Holmes and the gift and the curse of winning the Lottery. Black Business of the Week - https://www.akadipdx.com Thank you to our Sponsors: Target’s Black Beyond Measure - Target is proud to amplify Black founders and creators who drive culture forward. It’s why they’re investing in the next HBCU generation with partnerships like the Target…
  178. Feb 1, 2023 They Look Damp
    This week on #TheFriendZone, Dustin walks us through Hot Topics. Black Business of the Week - Fitness Studio in Miami https://www.rhythmandrelease.com Thank you to our Sponsors: Ebay - Ensure your next purchase is the real deal with eBay’s Authenticity Guarantee. https://www.ebay.com Target’s Black Beyond Measure - Target is proud to amplify Black founders and creators who drive culture forward. It’s why they’re…
  179. Jan 25, 2023 Pause For The Cause
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we share our thoughts on whether or not people should be crucified for 10 year old tweets. Black Business of the Week - https://www.blackcrossword.com Thank you to our Sponsors: Ixora BB - Visit ixorabb.com now to check out their incredible line of products. As a listener of this podcast, you can save 20% on your first order by using the code FriendZone20. Target’s Black Beyond Measure…
  180. Jan 18, 2023 The Grammy Is The Baby
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s a shoot the shit episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come out. Brace yourself. Thank you to our Sponsors: Ixora BB - Visit ixorabb.com now to check out their incredible line of products. As a listener of this podcast, you can save 20% on your first order by using the code FriendZone20. Target’s Black Beyond Measure - Target is proud to amplify Black founders…
  181. Jan 11, 2023 New Year, More Blessings - A Bonus Episode Sponsored By Target
    This week’s (pre-recorded) episode of #TheFriendZone is brought to you by Target. We discussed 2020 affecting our ability to celebrate NYE without anxiety, what we experienced and learned from in 2022 and our personal themes and intentions for 2023. Follow us online: Twitter - www.twitter.com/friendzonepod Facebook - www.facebook.com/thefriendzonepodcast Patreon - www.patreon.com/thefriendzonepodcast Discord -…
  182. Dec 14, 2022 What A Year - The 2022 Wrap-Up
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s the 2022 wrap-up. Our last episode of the year! We look back at the range of conversations we brought to the table and reflect on the crazy year we&apos;ve had. Black Business of the Week - https://aspencierraphotography.com Thank you to our Sponsors: Target - Whatever the reason, it’s always the season to stock up on Black-owned brands at Target. Black Beyond Measure. StoryWorth -…
  183. Dec 7, 2022 Crystal Balls
    This week on #TheFriendZone, Dustin walks us through “Sins of Our Mother” - the Lori Vallow story. Black Business of the Week - Code FriendZone for 20% off on https://www.empressmane.com Thank you to our Sponsors: Target - Whatever the reason, it’s always the season to stock up on Black-owned brands at Target. Black Beyond Measure. StoryWorth - Help your family share their story this holiday season with…
  184. Nov 30, 2022 Sheryl Lee Underwood
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s a shoot the shit episode. No Hot Button. No Segments. Just whatever wants to come out. Brace yourself. Black Business of the Week - https://www.empressmane.com Thank you to our Sponsors: Target - Whatever the reason, it’s always the season to stock up on Black-owned brands at Target. Black Beyond Measure. Check out ‘Illuminating Intersectionality’ hosted by Fran of Hey Fran Hey,…
  185. Nov 16, 2022 Angela Angelou
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s a shoot the shit episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come out. Brace yourself. Black Business of the Week - https://www.eatnewbreed.com Thank you to our Sponsors: Target - Whatever the reason, it’s always the season to stock up on Black-owned brands at Target. Black Beyond Measure. Illuminating Intersectionality - Check out ‘Illuminating Intersectionality’…
  186. Nov 9, 2022 The Useless Information Questionnaire
    This week on #TheFriendZone, Assanté keeps it light and fun with The Useless Information Questionnaire. Black Business of the Week - https://www.messinabottle.com Wellness Segment - Episode One of Illuminating Intersectionality https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a3CHrji3t8A Wellness Segment Part II - The Shadow Work Workbook https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/The-Shadow-Work-Workbook/Jor-El-Caraballo/9781507219799…
  187. Nov 2, 2022 Puffed Up With Pride
    This week on #TheFriendZone, Dustin walks us through October’s Hot Topics. Black Business of the Week - https://www.thelabdrawer.com Wellness Segment - Illuminating Intersectionality. A three-part video series hosted by Hey Fran Hey, Dr. Tykeia Robinson and Jade of All Jades, powered by Target’s Black Beyond Measure Platform: https://www.instagram.com/reel/Ckb4aukAcrV/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link Thank you to our…
  188. Oct 27, 2022 The House of Murdaugh
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s the last Crime Zone episode of the season. Fran walks us through The Fall of the House of Murdaugh. Wellness Segment - The Hey Fran Hey x Maryam Hasnaa Embodiment Collection https://resonanceapothecary.com/products/embodiment-box Black Business of the Week - https://labeautyclub.com Thank you to our Sponsors: ZocDoc - Go to Zocdoc.com/FRIENDZONE and download the Zocdoc app for…
  189. Oct 19, 2022 Hug A Tree Tonight
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s a shoot the shit episode. No Hot Button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come out. Brace yourself. Thank you to our Sponsors: Thuma Beds - Create that feeling of checking in to your favorite boutique hotel suite, but at home, with The Bed, by Thuma. And now go to https://www.thuma.co/FRIEND to receive a twenty-five-dollar credit towards your purchase of The Bed, plus free…
  190. Oct 12, 2022 Bell Bottom Diapers - Featuring Mercedes "Skin Care Bully" of IxoraBB
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s Crime Zone October! Assanté brings the curious case of Paul Fronczak to the Hot Button Segment. Mercedes "Skin Care Bully" of IxoraBB joins the Wellness Segment to talk all things Donkey Milk. Black Business of the Week - https://adorjewelryco.com Thank you to our Sponsors: Push Black - This episode is brought to you by Black History Year, a new podcast from PushBlack. Get…
  191. Oct 5, 2022 Pray For Pay
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we kick off Crime Zone October! Dustin tells the shocking tale of Bishop Dr. Tracie Dickey. Black Business of the Week - https://instagram.com/labeautyclub__?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y= Thank you to our Sponsors: PushBlack - If you want to take control of your finances and begin building wealth, tune into Building Black Dollars by PushBlack. Catch it anywhere you listen to podcasts. ZocDoc - Go…
  192. Sep 28, 2022 Permission Slips - Featuring Maryam Hasnaa
    This week on #TheFriendZone, we’re joined by longtime friend of the show, writer, Seer and Spiritual Practitioner, Maryam Hasnaa. We talk remembering to dream, designing new models of success within and outside of the system, and understanding our relationship to external validation. Important Maryam Hasnaa Links: * Our Ways of Knowing: An Exploration of the Intuitive Self Course launches October 5th, 2022 and is a…
  193. Sep 21, 2022 You&apos;re An Endangered Species
    This week on #TheFriendZone, it’s a shoot the shit episode. No hot button. No segments. Just whatever wants to come up. Brace yourselves. Thank you to our Sponsors: PushBlack - If you want to take control of your finances and begin building wealth, tune into Building Black Dollars by PushBlack. Catch it anywhere you listen to podcasts. ZocDoc - Go to Zocdoc.com/FRIENDZONE and download the Zocdoc app for FREE. Then…
  194. Sep 14, 2022 A Forgetful Mind
    This week on #TheFriendZone, Assanté takes us back 20 years. The top artists, songs, movies, and heartthrobs. Where were you in 2002? Black Business of the Week - https://theguiltygrape.com Are you subscribed to #TheFriendZone Patreon? https://www.patreon.com/TheFriendZonePodcast Thank you to our Sponsors: McDonald’s - This episode is sponsored by the McDonald’s “Buy One, Get One for $1 Deal.” At McDonald’s, you…
  195. Aug 31, 2022 Genital Cleanser
    This week on #TheFriendZone, Dustin walks us through this month’s Hot Topics. Black Business of the Week - Ser Skn https://www.serskn.com Thank you to our Sponsors: Target - When we invest in ourselves, we’re investing in what’s next for all of us. Stock up on Black-owned brands at Target. PushBlack - If you want to take control of your finances and begin building wealth, tune into Building Black Dollars by…

Page updated October 30, 2026.