Gay Men Going Deeper

On this week’s episode of Gay Men Going Deeper , we're diving into The Sexuality Spectrum . From fluid attractions and shifting needs to understanding social conditioning and embracing different sexual dynamics, we’re exploring the dynamic range of human sexuality and how it shows up uniquely for each of us. Some of the topics we’ll be discussing are:  Some of the aspects of the sexuality spectrum...

Curious about whether therapy or coaching is the best fit for you? In this insightful episode, life coach Michael Diiorio and therapist Michael Pezzullo team up to break down the unique benefits of each approach, guiding you through the key differences, overlaps, and the powerful results each modality can help you achieve. Both Michaels bring their unique expertise in helping gay men navigate life...

On this week’s episode of Gay Men Going Deeper, we're diving into how to build trust in relationships . Many gay men report having trust issues in their relationships due to growing up in a world that felt unsafe and unaccepting of our authentic selves If you struggle with trust issues in your relationships then this episode is a must. Come gain more clarity around any barriers you have to trustin...

In this episode, we’re shifting the focus from red flags to the positive signs that show up when dating— green flags . Join us as we reveal the positive traits and behaviors that indicate someone would be a compatible long-term partner. We’ll discuss: What green flags we look for and why they matter The green flags that we bring to the table What green flags we see in each other  How to tell if th...

In this episode, we’re talking about those warning signs and signals to look out for in potential partners and how to manage these warning signs with care and confidence. We’ll reveal our red flags, both in others and in ourselves, and how we respond to them when they show up in our dating lives. Some of the topics we cover in this episode are: Common red flags to look out for and why they matter...

Are open relationships really about avoiding commitment, or is there more to the story? In today’s episode, Michael is joined by Dr. Israel Martinez to unpack the common misconceptions around consensual non-monogamy (CNM) and explore how commitment and connection can flourish in open relationships. We’ll be discussing: Common misconceptions about CNM and monogamy How to determine your ideal relati...

In today’s episode, we’re going deeper into the topic of resilience—what it really means and how we can develop it, especially as gay men and our unique challenges. We’ll explore how the struggles we face, from feeling out of place to dealing with minority stress, can become powerful tools for personal growth. Resilience isn’t just about pushing through; it’s about learning, adapting, and thriving...

In this episode, Matt and Reno come together for their first duo episode to talk about their experiences with depression. They share openly about what causes depression in their lives and what they have done to deal with it. If you are someone who struggles with depression, we want you to know you are not alone. It is so important to normalize conversations about aspects of mental health that are...

Have you ever felt like you just don’t belong in the gay community? In today’s episode, we’re tackling the deep and painful feeling of not fitting in—a sentiment shared by many gay men. Some of the topics we’re exploring today are: How do we feel excluded vs. how do we feel included? Belonging vs. fitting in Vulnerability Judging others and ourselves  Core wounding and attachment trauma Fear of re...

In honour of National Coming Out Day, we’re diving deep into a sentiment many gay men have struggled with at some point: "I wish I wasn’t gay." While this feeling may seem contradictory on a day meant to celebrate coming out, it’s a reality for many who grapple with their sexual orientation and the journey to self-acceptance. In this episode, we unpack the challenges of embracing your authentic se...

In this episode, we welcome Somatic Intimacy Coach, Vance Hedman , for an insightful discussion on the importance of both mindset work and somatic body work when dealing with emotional pain and discomfort. We delve into how each approach can be uniquely beneficial in different scenarios, particularly when it comes to intimacy, building friendships, and deepening relationships. Some of the concepts...

In this episode of Gay Men Going Deeper , we dive into the complexities of the inner critic—the voice in our heads that often feeds perfectionism, shame, and self-doubt. While it can feel like a harsh and relentless judge, the inner critic is actually trying to protect you in its own way. We explore how to better understand this part of ourselves, offering strategies for befriending the inner crit...

Today we’re tackling the universal struggle of comparing ourselves to others. Whether it’s about body image, social status, or relationships, comparison can have a negative impact on our mental health, leading to a cycle of insecurity and self-doubt. In this episode, we’re looking at how to break the cycle and actually re-frame it for your personal development. Join us as we dive into how to compa...

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 frien...

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 strateg...

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 cover...

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 re...

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 r...

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, per...

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 Criteri...

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, d...

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 di...

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 t...

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:...

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...