Gay Men Going Deeper

As gay guys, our relationship with straight men can be quite complicated. In this episode, we’re exploring the complex connection between gay-straight male bonds, from platonic friendship to secret attractions. We'll also discuss common misconceptions and challenges that can arise when navigating these dynamics. Some of the topics we’ll be covering are: Our relationships with straight men How earl...

In this episode, Matt speaks with Ken Reid , an attachment and trauma informed counsellor, about narcissism in the gay community. They unpack the intricacies of this topic from both perspectives; understanding the narcissistic person, as well as those who attract these types of people into their lives. Come learn what causes narcissism, how to deal with narcissistic people, and what you can do to...

In this episode of Gay Men Going Deeper, we’re exploring a more playful and flirtatious side of ourselves as we dive headfirst into the captivating realm of crushes and attraction. Being "boy crazy," may seem frivolous but, today we are unfolding the intricate layers of emotions and experiences that come with navigating attraction. As always, we are using our personal experiences to explore the un...

In Part 2 of Finding Connection in the Gay Community, we shift the focus towards solutions, strategies, and the transformative power of authentic connections. If Part 1 delved into the challenges, Part 2 is all about fostering meaningful connections and platonic intimacy with other men. In this episode, we provide tangible and actionable ways for our listeners to build and strengthen bonds within...

Join us for an intimate exploration into the common challenges and pain points that gay men encounter in our quest for connection within the gay community. Loneliness is a universal experience, but in this episode, we delve into the unique challenges that we face in our community such as: The types of loneliness  What loneliness actually looks like  Shame and stigmas Sex as a solution The need for...

In part 2 of this 2-part series, we are focusing on recovery from addiction, including the strategies that proved useful along our respective journeys, and the wisdom we’ve gained in the process. Throughout the episode, we stress the importance of community and offer practical advice for those navigating recovery, while still acknowledging the unique challenges that we encounter along the way. Som...

In part 1 of this 2-part series, we are exploring the complex and often unspoken realm of addiction and compulsive behaviour. In this episode, we are sharing our own experiences, including substance abuse and behavioral addictions. In doing so, we hope to break the stigma surrounding addiction within the gay community, and foster a sense of understanding and support. Some of the topics we’ll be co...

For many LGBTQ+ people, coming out to family is a pivotal moment and significant step toward self-acceptance and living authentically. However, regardless of your age, coming out to family members can be extra challenging due to cultural reasons, family dynamics, and a fear of not being accepted.  Even once we have come out to our family members, we must navigate the delicate balance of how much a...

In this extra special episode, Michael welcomes members of his own chosen family to explore the unique dynamics that make chosen families such an important part of the LGBTQ+ experience. While providing a candid look at their own family dynamics, they delve into various subjects including: The importance of chosen family compared to biological family  How bonds evolve over time and what makes them...

In this heartfelt episode of Gay Men Going Deeper, we are sharing poignant stories of our family relationships. Join us as we explore the triumphs and tribulations of the intricate bonds that tie us to our biological family dynamics. Some of the questions we’ll be answering today are: 1. What do you find challenging about family? 2. How has your family shaped who you are? 3. What matters most to y...

In this episode, Matt speaks with Nyle Biondi , a trans and queer psychotherapist, about protecting their peace. In a world that is divisive and full of violence, oppression and hatred, how can we protect our peace?  This episode explores ways in which we might be giving away our power and how we can stop doing this and learn to protect our peace. Come spend an hour with Matt and Nyle and learn ho...

In this enriching episode of Gay Men Going Deeper, we are delving deep into the world of personal finance and exploring the often underestimated power of your money mindset.  Everyone has a money mindset, which consists of your thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes about money.  Whether you realize it or not, this mindset is creating your financial well-being. Our goal today is to inspire you to create...

Making friends can feel like a complex puzzle in the gay world - and when you're an introvert, the pieces fit differently. In this episode of Gay Men Going Deeper, Michael DiIorio and friendship coach, Zayne Khan explore the distinctive hurdles faced by introverts in their quest for companionship. We’ll cover topics such as: The unique challenges introverts face in making friends How being gay imp...

In this episode of Gay Men Going Deeper, we tackle a topic that's become increasingly important in our fast-paced, interconnected world: work-life balance.  Throughout this episode, we explore the causes of the work-life balance struggle, including societal expectations and the constant connectivity enabled by technology. We’ll also share stories and practical advice on how we set boundaries, prio...

In this episode Matt speaks with Indie Author and Counselor, Jonathan Lee about dating as a gay man. Jonathan wrote his debut book 40 Single Gay where he over-shares his experience in the hostile gay dating world and what he learned about himself through the process. Matt and Jonathan unpack everything from hookup culture and non-monogamy, to intimacy and how to get our emotional needs met as gay...

Every human being has a unique purpose: something you and only you can bring to this world. In today’s episode of Gay Men Going Deeper, we are sharing our personal journeys towards our purpose. We’ll share how moments of clarity, inspiration, and even adversity provided invaluable insights into our true calling. Some of the questions we’ll be answering are: How did you discover your purpose? What...

In this provocative episode of Gay Men Going Deeper, Michael DiIorio and Pepper pushing boundaries, sparking discussion, and providing helpful tips on sharing NSFW pics. Some of the topics we’ll be covering today are: Why do we send NSFW pics?  What are the risks in doing so?  Does it impact how our relationships unfold? Are we too desensitized to nudity? What are some best practices for sending a...

In this episode Matt speaks with Scott Blackwood about healing their traumatic pasts. They talk about the impacts of relational and attachment trauma on their lives and how this led to Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD), shame, low self-esteem and social isolation. They talk about how the unresolved trauma impacted their relationship with themselves and others and the steps they are ta...

Today we are diving deep into the profound practice of inner child work, a transformative journey that has the power to heal wounds from our past and pave the way for a brighter future. Join us as we delve into various techniques and exercises that can help you connect with your inner child, nurture them, and ultimately begin the process of healing any unresolved childhood pain. Some of the questi...

Bullying is defined as an ongoing and deliberate misuse of power in relationships through repeated verbal, physical and/or social behaviour that intends to cause physical, social and/or psychological harm. Why this conversation is important: It is said that approximately ⅓ people will experience some form of bullying in their lifetime; in the home, in the community, in the classroom, in the workpl...

In today’s episode, Michael DiIorio invites special guest Jeremy Russo to explore how spiritual abuse can manifest within religious communities, causing harm to individuals' mental, emotional, and even physical well-being. We also touch upon religious trauma, discussing its lasting impact on survivors, and the journey towards healing and forgiveness.  While this is a deeply sensitive topic, we bel...

In this episode, Matt Landsiedel takes you on a guided meditative journey to discover the relationship between your masculine and feminine energies. The guided meditation is designed to help you restore balance between your masculine and feminine energy. When we use the terms masculine and feminine, we are not referring to the gender or sex of an individual, we are referring to the energetic duali...

Expressing your feminine energy does not diminish your masculinity or make you less of a man. Each person is a unique expression of masculine and feminine energies, and this expression is a natural and valid part of our identity. In today's episode, we are sharing our own experiences of discovering and expressing our feminine energy. We'll explore various aspects of embracing our inner femininity,...

Gay culture has historically idolized traditional masculinity in the context of societal norms, which includes traits like physical strength, assertiveness, and stoicism.  But we must remember that there isn't a single, fixed definition of masculinity. While some embrace traditional concepts of masculinity, others may lean towards more non-conforming presentations.  Lately, there has been a growin...

Libido, or sex drive, is our natural instinctual inclination for sexual activity. Libido varies person to person and fluctuates over time.  It’s not uncommon for men to put a high value on their sex drive, especially if they associate it with their masculinity and self-esteem.  In this episode of Gay Men Going Deeper, Michael welcomes Dr. Hector Rodriguez to answer your questions about libido.  So...