In this episode of Gay Men Going Deeper, we explore the complex nature of making friends within the gay community. There’s a fine line between sexual or romantic connections and platonic friendships, and those lines can blur quite easily. Some of the topics we’ll cover include: Blurred lines between friends and friends with benefits Advice and tips on platonic friendships How to expand your friendship circle Keeping an open mind when meeting people Having honest...

In this episode, we are talking about the unique challenges and pressures that we face in social settings within our own community.  The Gay Men’s Brotherhood is dedicated to helping gay men connect and build more authentic and meaningful relationships, but this is particularly challenging for those who feel anxious in groups of gay men.  We'll share our personal experiences and the coping strategies we've developed to manage and overcome social anxiety. Topics discussed today...

In this insightful episode, we turn our focus to the often unspoken challenges that come with being a gay man. The reality for many queer folks is that our lives are met with unique hurdles that impact our mental, emotional, and social well-being. Through candid discussions and personal experiences, we are looking at these challenges from the gay male perspective. Some of the topics we’ll be covering are: Learning to hide who you are  Social discrimination External and...

In this episode, Matt speaks with Counsellor Ken Reid about attachment styles in dating and relationships. Together they unpack how attachment styles can impact whether or not we choose to be in monogamous or non monogamous relationships. They explore the impact of trauma on the development of insecure attachment styles, and what we can do to heal if we find ourselves anxious or avoidant in our relationships.  The concepts and questions we explore in this episode are: What is an...

Join us for a very special milestone as "Gay Men Going Deeper" celebrates our 200th episode! In this celebratory episode, we're raising our voices and our spirits high as we discuss what it truly means to embrace our gayness. From the early days of fear and isolation to the empowering present, we're sharing why we love being gay and how we got here. We’re sharing personal anecdotes and heartfelt reflections that highlight the evolution of our relationship with our gayness. Some of the...

From coming out in high school in Brooklyn in the 80’’s, to moving to California,  to leaving college and moving into hypnotherapy, and finally landing in the world of embodiment and somatics sexual therapy, and becoming a facilitator at The Body Electric School; JoJo’s resume reads more like a permission slip. The theme of todays episode is very much that: permission. Permission to be sexual, permission to be messy, permission to be shameless, and permission to be you, and permission to be...

How can you tell if someone is gay? It’s an age-old mystery that often turns into a discussion about “gaydar” – the ability to perceive or intuit someone's sexual orientation. In this episode, we are unraveling the intricacies of this phenomenon in how we navigate the subtle cues and signals that hint at our ‘gayness’.  Some of the topics we’re covering today are: The science behind gaydar Criteria we use to detect someone’s sexual orientation  Unconscious bias  Code switching...

Living a life guided and powered by creativity and “Spirit” is a liberating journey, not for the faint of heart. It leads us into freedom and liberation, but not before inviting us to reconcile with some of our most significant attachments and greatest fears. Today, we are joined by heARTist, creator, activist, poet, author, and shaman, Keone Wales, in a dynamic conversation around inspiration, death, queerness, creativity and more. You might call this a unique conversation in that it...

In a world where swiping on apps and instant gratification dominates, is there still room for the timeless art of courtship? Join us on this episode of Gay Men Going Deeper as we explore the concept of courtship in the digital age. Some of the topics we’re covering in this episode include:  How traditional courting differs from modern dating How old school practices can still be relevant in the digital age Navigating the complexities of dating apps The lost art of building...

In this powerful episode, we address a topic that affects many but is often shrouded in silence and stigma: sexual abuse. Joining us for this important conversation is Michael Pezzullo, a seasoned therapist who works with trauma and sexual abuse recovery. Together, we explore the impact that sexual abuse can have on one's mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Some of the topics covered in this episode are: Ways in which abuse can occur in childhood and/or adulthood  Setting...

First dates can be exhilarating, nerve-wracking, and everything in between. But fear not! On this episode of Gay Men Going Deeper, we're here to guide you through having a successful first date. Join us as we share expert tips, personal stories, and practical advice for making a lasting impression and setting the stage for a potential connection. Some of the topics we’re covering in this episode: What exactly makes a first date ‘successful’ What to talk about on a first...

In this episode, Matt speaks with Psychotherapist, Nyle Biondi, about anger and how important it is to connect with and release anger from our mind and body. Anger can serve a great purpose if we consciously work with it. It can help us step into our power, and be a messenger of unmet needs or crossed boundaries. Many of us have social conditioning that tells us anger is inappropriate, or perhaps you were even shamed for being angry. Connecting with your anger in a healthy way might just be...

Today, we are unpacking a seldom-discussed, but deeply relevant issue within the gay community: Fear of Intimacy.  Many men grapple with the challenge of opening up emotionally and forging meaningful connections. Often, we find ourselves settling for superficial encounters while yearning for something more meaningful. Today we’re discussing how the same emotional walls that protect us from getting hurt can also leave us feeling isolated and lonely.   In this episode, we are going deeper...

In this informative episode, anal health expert, Dr. Evan Goldstein, addresses common questions and concerns about anal sex. If you've ever wondered about issues like hemorrhoids, fissures, or general rectal health, this is the perfect opportunity to get expert advice.  Taking care of your anal health is fundamental to feeling sexy in your body and showing up confidently in your relationships. Unfortunately, there are plenty of misconceptions and taboos surrounding butt health that hinder...

One of the greatest fears that holds us back in love and in life is the fear of rejection.  In this episode,  we are acknowledging the daunting prospect of putting ourselves out there, whether it be romantically, sexually, or professionally. We dissect the psychology of rejection as it pertains to our past traumas, beliefs, and inner narratives. Some of the topics we cover in this episode are:  The need for belonging and connection Being pursued versus pursuing The narratives...

In this episode, Matt speaks with Reunion Founder, Brad Wells, and Psychotherapist/ Ayahuasquero, Alex Theberge, about healing with plant medicine (psychedelics).  We unpack the benefits of psychedelics and how plants can be used to heal many common issues where traditional psychotherapy might not be as effective. Psychedelics are becoming more mainstream and their powerful healing benefits are becoming more known. Come on this journey with us and see if psychedelics may benefit your...

In this episode of Gay Men Going Deeper, we delve into the complexities of authenticity in the digital age. From Instagram to OnlyFans, we are living in an increasingly performative world where authenticity seems harder to discern.  Today we are going deeper behind the blurred lines between being fake and putting your best self forward. We’ll be discussing the nuances of genuine self-expression versus performative behavior with personal examples and anecdotes to illustrate.  Some of the...

Join us for a compelling panel discussion as we spotlight the experiences of Asian gay men with our diverse panel of guests. Against the backdrop of intersectionality, our panelists share their personal journeys, confronting stereotypes, and navigating the complexities of race, sexuality, and culture. The sacrifices we make to feel included  Discrimination in dating Common stereotypes and microaggressions   Fetishization  Challenges of visibility Media representation: then...

In this episode, we are discussing the intriguing topic of self-disclosure and its role in fostering genuine connections. Self-disclosure, the art of revealing personal information about yourself to others,  shapes our relationships on various levels.  Join us as we explore the psychology behind self-disclosure, its benefits, risks, and the delicate balance required for meaningful communication.  Some of the topics we’re covering in today’s episode: Knowing what to share and what...

In this episode, Matt speaks with vocal coach, producer, and artist Javier Wallis about finding and releasing the voice to foster a deeper capacity for self-expression. They unpack ways to unlock the voice through facing the fears and blockages many of us have about expressing ourselves.  Come spend an hour with Matt and Javier and learn some of the powerful benefits of vocal expression and how it can lead to profound transformation, healing and empowerment.  The concepts and questions...

In this emotionally stirring episode, we dive into the heavy and complex topic of dealing with guilt and regret. Sometimes we must face the uncomfortable consequences of our actions and learn how to not remain paralyzed in the shadows of guilt and regret.  Join us as we explore the universal experience of making mistakes, forgiveness, self-forgiveness, and the power of moving forward with resilience Some of the topics we’re covering today are: What’s the difference between guilt...

Financial empowerment is your ability to take control of your finances, make informed decisions, and effectively manage your resources to achieve your goals and improve your overall well-being.  Unfortunately, many people are holding onto limiting beliefs and habits around money that create stress, and leave you feeling disempowered. In today’s episode, Michael speaks to Personal Finance Coach, CPA, and TedX Speaker, Michael Kim, to guide you toward financial empowerment. Some of the...

In this episode, we explore the profound power of self-compassion on our emotional well-being. As we share our own experiences and favorite lessons on this topic, you will discover what self-compassion truly means and practical ways to integrate it into your daily life. Some of the topics we cover in this episode: What does self-compassion entail exactly? The different types of self-compassion Why it can be hard to practice at times The significance of embodiment  The role...

In this episode, Matt speaks with Intuitive Energy Healer, Scott Clover about the subconscious mind and healing. Scott shares his wisdom on how to evoke the childhood imagination for healing past victimhood so we can move forward into self-esteem. Scott explains how to speak to the body for healing and also shares tips and a few experiential exercises to use to prepare the subconscious mind for transformation. Come learn how to practice self-acceptance and forgiveness for yourself through...