Gay Men Going Deeper

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 the face of adversity. Some of the topics we’re discussing today include: The difference between dissociating vs. productively handling stress Surrender vs. persistence: when to let go and when to push forward Using suffering as a tool for healing and personal transformation How to reframe challenges as a curriculum for building emotional resilience Recognizing the fine line between building resilience and burning out How community and connection can strengthen our ability to bounce back The importance of self-compassion in the process of resilience By the end of this episode, you'll have a fresh perspective on how to face your struggles head-on, using them to build a stronger, more resilient version of yourself. 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 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 still stigmatized. We hope this episode leaves you feeling seen, and offers you some ways to support yourself, and also ways to feel supported by others as you navigate your own depression.  The questions we explore in this episode are: What is depression? What is your relationship to depression? How have you dealt with your depression? What advice do you have for someone who is dealing with depression? Today's Hosts: 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.

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 rejection Fostering more inclusive spaces  If you’ve ever felt like an outsider or if you want to help create a more inclusive gay community, this episode is for you. Let’s learn how to cultivate belonging, both for ourselves and those around us. 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 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 self, including: How we came to accept our sexuality Would we change our sexuality if we could? Words of encouragement for those who wish they were something different than they are Whether you’re on your own journey of self-discovery or supporting someone who is, this episode is filled with heart, vulnerability, and hope. Please do share this episode with someone who needs to hear it to foster more understanding, compassion, and support on this National Coming Out Day. 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 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 we cover today are: How mindset work and body work are different and how they are similar How each approach can help you feel better Dealing with uncomfortable emotions  Finding peace in the discomfort of growth  Getting out of your comfort zone in seeking intimacy  How our emotions can trick us into stagnation  When to listen to fear and when to overcome it  Self-compassion Choosing the right environment for social situations Changing yourself for yourself vs. changing yourself for others  Learn how integrating mindset and somatic tools can lead to deeper connections and a more holistic sense of well-being where your mind and body are working in tandem towards your goals. Today's Guest: Vance Hedman Instagram Today's Host: Michael Diiorio Instagram 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 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 critic and cultivating a mindset of self-compassion. Some of the topics covered today are: How the inner critic shows up to fuel perfectionism and shame The hidden ways the inner critic tries to protect us Strategies to befriend your inner critic instead of letting it bully you The power of self-compassion in quieting harsh inner dialogue Transforming negative self-talk into constructive feedback Unleashing your inner self-advocate to help keep the inner critic at bay  Join us for a thoughtful discussion on turning down the volume on self-criticism and fostering a healthier, more supportive relationship with yourself. Today's Hosts: Michael DiIorio Matt Landsiedel Related Link: Self-Confidence Workshop 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.

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 compare consciously and mindfully, transforming it into a tool that actually serves you instead of tearing you down. Some of the topics covered today are: Knowing who we compare ourselves to and why Instagram, TikTok, and social media - and its impact on your self-esteem Self-worth and self-confidence  Mindfulness and deliberate thought work  Stories we tell ourselves about other people’s success  How to break the cycle of compare and despair  Tearing others down as an attempt to find comfort  Join us for an informative episode where we’ll break down practical strategies for breaking free from the compare-and-despair cycle so you can find more peace and self-assuredness. Today's Hosts: Michael DiIorio Matt Landsiedel Related Link: Self-Confidence Workshop 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 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 conversations Join us as we delve into the challenges and dynamics that come into play in gay platonic friendships. Whether you're seeking to expand your circle or strengthen existing bonds, we share practical tips and insights on how to build and maintain meaningful friendships without the complications of romantic feelings getting involved. 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 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 are: Types and levels of social anxiety Reasons why group situations trigger anxiety Strategies for coping in social situations  How nerves can manifest in physical symptoms The power of self-talk and inner dialogue  Opportunities for connection within our community  Our goal is to provide you with practical advice and insights so you can more actively engage in our community events and form deeper connections with others. 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 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 internalized homophobia Dealing with rejection Loneliness and isolation  Our relationship to masculinity  Sexual shame Impacts to self-worth and self-esteem  Finding acceptance within our families and communities  This episode aims to foster a deeper understanding and empathy for the challenges gay men face, providing a platform for open dialogue and support. Whether you're a member of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally seeking to learn more, this conversation will help foster awareness and solidarity. 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.