Episode Details

This week on the pod, Connie and Lina welcome Dr. Demetre Daskalakis for a conversation that goes from NYC nightlife nostalgia to speaking truth to power—with chosen family, candid stories, and a few sitcom detours along the way.

They revisit their shared club roots and the lessons that followed Demetre from the dance floor into medicine: read the room, build trust, and meet people where they are. Their takeaway? Knowing the science matters. Knowing how to talk to people matters, too.

They dig into LGBTQ+ healthcare at Callen-Lorde, HIV prevention, PrEP, doxy PEP, and why Dr D. champions messaging rooted in joy and empowerment—not shame.

Then, they turn up the heat.

Dr. D. explains why he left the CDC, what he was no longer willing to accept, and the policies he condemned in his resignation letter. Together, they tackle political doublespeak, public trust, and what happens when health communication becomes a political battleground

Their prescription? Find your people. Make some noise. Give a damn.

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@TheRealConnieGirl

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“The Cutting Up: A Kiki with Connie & Lina” is a Pride House Media production.

Producers: Josh Rosenzweig & Matthew Breen.

Graphic Design by Daryl Raymond.

Original Music by 808 BEACH (John “J-C” Carr & Bill Coleman), courtesy of Peace Bisquit. 

 Production Design by Darryl Dickens.

Hair by Mariah Molina. 

Photography by Shane Reynolds.

Our very special thanks to Jason Kanner for all your support.