Beneath The Surface Podcast with Danny Francois

In this episode of Beneath the Surface, we explore the quiet, intentional ways we build connection — not through perfection, but through presence. Before any of us speak, we’re already setting a stage: a stage for safety, for honesty, for belonging. I sit down with Alexis Garcia, a friend from college, for a raw, grounded conversation about chosen family, emotional safety, and the people who teach...

In this episode of Beneath the Surface Podcast, host Danny F. and guest Nick Lanier, a veteran, explore the complexities of returning home after military service. They discuss the challenges of identity, belonging, and the importance of chosen family and faith in navigating the transition. Nick shares personal stories of his journey, the role of his wife in grounding him, and the significance of a...

Feeling burned out, overwhelmed, or stuck in hustle culture? In this episode of Beneath the Surface, host Danny Francois sits down with entrepreneur and speaker Brian Cristiano to unpack the real mental and emotional cost of nonstop grinding — and how to rebuild a life rooted in balance, clarity, and purpose. Brian shares his personal journey of chasing the wrong goals, hitting burnout, and redefi...

In this moving and inspirational episode, we step into the sacred intersection of faith, trauma, and transformation. Inspired by Isaiah 53 and 61 — “By His stripes we are healed” and “He will give them beauty for ashes” — we explore how God meets us in the ruins, gathers what’s been shattered, and rebuilds us into something new.  Our guest, Kaycee, shares a testimony that moves from rebellion to r...

In this powerful episode of Diving Beneath the Surface, we sit down with Robley Johnson to explore a journey marked by identity struggles, substance use, and the courageous work of rebuilding a life from the inside out. Robley opens up about the years he spent trying to fit in with the wrong people, losing sight of his authentic self, and burying the parts of him that were quietly calling out for...

In this intimate pilot episode, Danny Francois and guest Ravin open up about the roots of Beneath The Surface—why it exists, who it’s for, and what healing really sounds like. Through personal stories and honest reflection, they explore the power of naming pain, reclaiming identity, and creating space for voices often left unheard. This is more than a podcast—it’s a movement toward truth, tenderne...

Healing isn’t linear—and recovery rarely looks perfect. In this episode, Danny sits down with Bailey for a raw, honest conversation about addiction, resilience, and the messy beauty of healing. From setbacks to breakthroughs, Bailey shares what it really takes to walk the road to recovery—and why hope is never out of reach.

In this soul-stirring episode of Beneath the Surface, host Danny Francois sits down with Taj Francois —a Filmmaker & Creative Multi Hyphenate, whose work is as raw as it is resonant. Together, they explore what it means to bring your full, unapologetic self into your creative work and professional life. From shedding masks to navigating mental health in the creative process, this conversation...