Communication is at the heart of every relationship—whether it’s with friends, partners, colleagues, or even yourself. But what does it actually mean to be a strong communicator? In this episode, we’re diving into the key skills that make conversations more effective, engaging, and authentic. Join us as we discuss: What makes a strong communicator? The role of emotional intelligence in communication Common barriers that create conflict and misunderstandings Practical tips to improve your listening and speaking skills Whether you want to deepen your connections, set clearer boundaries, or simply get your point across without second-guessing yourself, this episode will give you insights to help you communicate with more clarity and impact. Related Link: Authentic Relating and Empowerment for Gay Men Today's Hosts: Michael DiIorio Matt Landsiedel Reno Johnston Support the Show - viewer and listener support helps us to continue making episodes - CONNECT WITH US - Watch podcast episodes on YouTube Join the Gay Men's Brotherhood Facebook community Get on our email list to get access to our monthly Zoom calls Follow us on Instagram | TikTok Learn more about our community at GayMenGoingDeeper.com - LEARN WITH US - Building Better Relationships online course: Learn how to nurture more meaningful and authentic connections with yourself and others. Healing Your Shame online course: Begin the journey toward greater confidence and self-worth by learning how to recognize and deal with toxic shame. Gay Men Going Deeper Coaching Collection: Lifetime access to BOTH courses + 45 coaching videos and 2 workshop series. Take the Attachment Style Quiz to determine your attachment style and get a free report.

They didn’t teach us about gay sex in school… so we had to teach ourselves. From porn to awkward trial-and-error hookups, most of us pieced together our own “education”—for better or worse. In this episode, Michael is joined by porn star turned sex educator, Patrick Marano, to talk about the sex ed we should have had, how we’ve had to create it for ourselves, and why stigma and censorship still keep gay men in the dark. Some of the topics covered in this episode: 🔹 How conventional sex education fails gay men 🔹 How porn, hookups, and our peers became our teachers (for better or worse) 🔹 How silence and secrecy fuel sexual shame 🔹 What we’re still learning today 🔹 How censorship and misinformation prevent us from getting the info we need 🔹 How to take control of your own sex education Plus: Our favourite resources, communities, and channels for the sex education we actually deserve. Join Michael’s Sexual Empowerment Men’s Group 🎟 Use code GMGD to get 25% off! Today's Guest: Patrick Marano Instagram Today's Host: Michael DiIorio Instagram TikTok Support the Show - viewer and listener support helps us to continue making episodes - CONNECT WITH US - Watch podcast episodes on YouTube Join the Gay Men's Brotherhood Facebook community Get on our email list to get access to our monthly Zoom calls Follow us on Instagram | TikTok Learn more about our community at GayMenGoingDeeper.com - LEARN WITH US - Building Better Relationships online course: Learn how to nurture more meaningful and authentic connections with yourself and others. Healing Your Shame online course: Begin the journey toward greater confidence and self-worth by learning how to recognize and deal with toxic shame. Gay Men Going Deeper Coaching Collection: Lifetime access to BOTH courses + 45 coaching videos and 2 workshop series. Take the Attachment Style Quiz to determine your attachment style and get a free report.

Is your dating profile truly showing the best version of you? In this episode of Gay Men Going Deeper, we're diving into the do's and don'ts of crafting a profile that is aligned with what you’re truly looking for. On the apps, your profile is the first impression that counts so whether you're looking for love, fun, or meaningful connections, it matters.  Some topics we’ll discuss: What it means to show your authentic self without being cringy Choosing the best photos Crafting a bio that stands out. Common profile pitfalls How to be clear without being overly rigid  Balancing confidence with humility How we communicate on apps  Tune in for tips, insights, and takeaways to help you create a profile that attracts the right matches and reflects the real you. Join Michael's FREE one-time workshop where we'll give your dating profile a glow up: The Dating App Glow Up Today's Hosts: Michael DiIorio Matt Landsiedel Reno Johnston Support the Show - viewer and listener support helps us to continue making episodes - CONNECT WITH US - Watch podcast episodes on YouTube Join the Gay Men's Brotherhood Facebook community Get on our email list to get access to our monthly Zoom calls Follow us on Instagram | TikTok Learn more about our community at GayMenGoingDeeper.com - LEARN WITH US - Building Better Relationships online course: Learn how to nurture more meaningful and authentic connections with yourself and others. Healing Your Shame online course: Begin the journey toward greater confidence and self-worth by learning how to recognize and deal with toxic shame. Gay Men Going Deeper Coaching Collection: Lifetime access to BOTH courses + 45 coaching videos and 2 workshop series. Take the Attachment Style Quiz to determine your attachment style and get a free report.

In this conversation, men's coach Shay Doran delves into the psychological dimensions of erectile dysfunction, particularly among gay men. He reveals that societal stigma can exacerbate performance anxiety and feelings of isolation. The discussion highlights key factors, such as perfectionism, the impact of casual encounters, and the journey toward self-acceptance. Shay also emphasizes the importance of emotional connections in sexual experiences, advocating for vulnerability over mere performance. Listeners gain insights into overcoming shame and fostering intimacy.

Explore the addictive nature of dating apps and their emotional toll on users. Dive into the duality of these platforms, where superficial swipes clash with the desire for deeper connections. The hosts share personal stories and discuss the evolution from traditional gay spaces to app-driven interactions. They emphasize the need for emotional maturity while navigating these digital dating landscapes. Listeners will gain insights on maintaining a healthier relationship with dating apps and recognizing when it's time for a break.

In this engaging discussion, Pepper Rojas, a regular guest renowned for his candid take on gay culture, delves into the transformative concept of the Empowered Bottom. He unpacks the difference between power bottoms and empowered bottoms, advocating for self-advocacy and open communication about desires and boundaries. The conversation challenges bottom shaming and celebrates owning pleasure without apology. Listeners are invited to rethink sexual roles, embrace their identities confidently, and break free from societal norms around masculinity and intimacy.

The discussion swiftly challenges the stereotype that gay couples shy away from monogamy, presenting surprising stats on commitment. It dives into the reasons queer individuals often explore non-traditional relationship models. The hosts shed light on the benefits of monogamous relationships, emphasizing personal growth, intimacy, and the importance of open communication. They confront the stigma attached to monogamy within the queer community, advocating for personal choice in relationship dynamics, whatever their structure may be. Tune in for insightful stories and practical advice!

In this episode, Matt speaks with therapist and author Tom Bruett about the struggles many gay men face with romantic relationships. Together they share decades of experience when it comes to understanding the relational challenges faced by gay men. From toxic shame to developmental trauma, they unpack what causes these challenges and how to start healing and empowering ourselves in our relationships.  If you are someone who struggles in your romantic relationships with intimacy, vulnerability or codependency, this episode was created with you in mind. This is an excellent episode if you're seeking guidance in relationship challenges, but it will also help you feel less alone in struggling with two of the most challenging things about being human; emotions and relationships.  The questions explored in this episode: Why do gay men struggle in relationships?  What is required for gay men to develop secure attachment? What is the difference between secure attachment and secure relationship?  What does a secure relationship look like?  What are the stages of queer relationship development? Related Link: The Secure Attachment Handbook Today's Guest: Tom Bruett Instagram Today's Host: Matt Landsiedel Facebook Instagram TikTok Support the Show - viewer and listener support helps us to continue making episodes - CONNECT WITH US - Watch podcast episodes on YouTube Join the Gay Men's Brotherhood Facebook community Get on our email list to get access to our monthly Zoom calls Follow us on Instagram | TikTok Learn more about our community at GayMenGoingDeeper.com - LEARN WITH US - Building Better Relationships online course: Learn how to nurture more meaningful and authentic connections with yourself and others. Healing Your Shame online course: Begin the journey toward greater confidence and self-worth by learning how to recognize and deal with toxic shame. Gay Men Going Deeper Coaching Collection: Lifetime access to BOTH courses + 45 coaching videos and 2 workshop series. Take the Attachment Style Quiz to determine your attachment style and get a free report.

What happens when friendship meets intimacy? Explore the intriguing dynamics of friends with benefits versus friends with intimacy. The conversation dives into setting boundaries and the importance of self-awareness. Discover the pros and cons of these relationships while listening to personal stories of what went right, and what went awry. Feelings can complicate casual arrangements, highlighting the need for clear communication and regular check-ins. Join the journey of navigating emotional connections in the context of modern friendships.

The first year after coming out can feel like an emotional rollercoaster—exciting, scary, and full of questions. How do you navigate this transformative time while finding your community, and embracing your authentic self? In this episode, we’re talking about the unique challenges and opportunities that come with living out for the first time. We’ll discuss: What was your first year out like? What are some common struggles newly out gay men face, and how can they overcome them? How do you figure out who you authentically are after hiding for so long? What’s your advice for building a supportive LGBTQ+ community? Whether you’re newly out, supporting someone who is, or reflecting on your own journey, this episode offers practical tools, heartfelt insights, and encouragement for thriving in this pivotal year. Free download: The Gay Man's Survival Guide For Your First Year Out Today's Hosts: Michael DiIorio Matt Landsiedel Reno Johnston Support the Show - viewer and listener support helps us to continue making episodes - CONNECT WITH US - Watch podcast episodes on YouTube Join the Gay Men's Brotherhood Facebook community Get on our email list to get access to our monthly Zoom calls Follow us on Instagram | TikTok Learn more about our community at GayMenGoingDeeper.com - LEARN WITH US - Building Better Relationships online course: Learn how to nurture more meaningful and authentic connections with yourself and others. Healing Your Shame online course: Begin the journey toward greater confidence and self-worth by learning how to recognize and deal with toxic shame. Gay Men Going Deeper Coaching Collection: Lifetime access to BOTH courses + 45 coaching videos and 2 workshop series. Take the Attachment Style Quiz to determine your attachment style and get a free report.