

Perfectionism, Pressure, and the Gay Overachiever
You know the type — ambitious, perfectionistic, and always striving to do more and be more… yet secretly fuelled by pressure, anxiety, and fear.
In this episode, Michael is joined by special guest Scott Stirrett as they share their own stories of hustling for achievement and how they’ve learned to stay ambitious without destroying themselves in the process. Together, they unpack how perfectionism, internalized shame, and the need for external validation can be ways we attempt to outrun our insecurities — and pivot toward ambition that’s healthy, sustainable, and soul-driven.
Topics covered in this episode:
- Why gay men are uniquely wired for overachievement
- How perfectionism shows up in covert and overt ways
- How adversity can build anti-fragility and real confidence
- The difference between healthy ambition vs shame-fuelled hustle
- Learning to slow down without feeling lazy, guilty, or like you’re falling behind
- Rewiring your motivation so it feeds you instead of drains you
By the end of this episode, you’ll be inspired to pursue success in a way that keeps you driven and impactful — without burning yourself out — and to start measuring your worth from the inside out.
Today's Guest: Scott Stirrett
Today's Host: Michael DiIorio
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