Episodes
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In previous episodes, weâve delved into the complex relationship gay men often have with body image shaped by societal expectations and stereotypes that idealize a lean, muscular physique, leading many to experience feelings of inadequacy and self-consciousness about their appearance. According to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders, gay and bisexual boys are significantly more likely to engage in harmful behaviors such as fasting, vomiting, or using laxatives and diet pills to control their weight.
Listen to Episode 32. Gay Men and Body ObsessionListen to Episode 82. Gay Gym CultureListen to Episode 91. Fat and Fabulous: Embrace Body Positivity (with Matthew Simko)
In this episode, Roy Belzer, a body-positive fitness coach, joins us to share his personal journey with body image, discuss how he overcame disordered eating, and highlight the importance of inclusive fitness for the health and wellbeing of the LGBTQ+ community.
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Learn More About Roy BelzerSchedule a Chat with RoyFollow Roy on InstagramFollow Roy on TikTokConnect with Roy on FacebookCheck Out Royâs Menâs Health Magazine FeatureEating Disorder StatisticsTo Live List
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In most episodes, we often discuss how gay men face unique mental health challenges due to societal stigma, discrimination, and internalized stress, which can exacerbate issues like anxiety and depression. Prioritizing mental health and wellness can help address these specific struggles and promote overall well-being as we work to foster resilience and build a fulfilling life.
Listen to Episode 35. Surviving the Holidays
In this episode, Peter DeWitt, founder of Gay Wellness, joins us to discuss how his own wellness journey led him to create an online platform that connects clients with quality gay massage therapists and wellness practitioners.
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Learn More About Gay WellnessFollow Gay Wellness on InstagramFollow Peter DeWitt on InstagramTo Live List
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Situationships are undefined romantic or sexual relationships that lack clear commitment or future plans, often leading to ambiguous expectations between partners. For some gay men, growing up in a heteronormative society can lead to attachment issues or a fear of commitment, making them more likely to find themselves in situationships where emotional vulnerability is limited.
Listen to Episode 15. Understanding Attachment StylesListen to Episode 70. Good Grief: How to Cope with LossListen to Episode 71. Queer GriefListen to Bonus 14. WTF America?
In this episode, weâre examining the telltale signs and red flags of situationships, discussing how these ambiguous relationships can affect mental health, and offering guidance on how to navigate a situationship if you find yourself in one.
Related Episodes:
Situationship DefinitionSituationship vs Friends With BenefitsSituationships: What They Are and 5 Signs Youâre in One10 Signs You're in a Situationship, Whether You Know It or NotWhat to Do if Your Situationship is Screwing With Your Mental HealthWhy Situationships Can Be Toxic and How to Break Free
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Previously, we discussed our iconic pop queens and how their songs typically fit into distinct categories that hit an emotional button that appeals to gay men. These categories often include themes of empowerment, heartbreak, resilience, and self-expression, resonating deeply with the LGBTQ+ community, particularly gay men, who find solace and strength in these anthems.
Listen to Episode 04. Pop Icons and Their Gay Emotional AppealListen to Episode 25. Gay Icons: My Name is KylieListen to Episode 41. Gay Icons: The Queen of DiscoListen to Episode 58. Gay Icons: Our Friend, DorothyListen to Bonus 11. Gay Icons: Amy Winehouse
In this episode, we continue our Gay Icons series with Stefan Mreczko joining us to discuss none other than the Queen of Pop herself, Madonna. As host of MLVC: The Madonna Podcast, Stefan chats with us about the iconic singer, songwriter, and actressâ boundary-pushing music, reinvention of image, and significant influence on pop culture over the past four decades
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Learn More About Stefan MreczkoFollow Stefan on InstagramConnect with MLVC: The Madonna PodcastStraight Jacket: Overcoming Society's Legacy of Gay ShameTo Live List
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In previous episodes, we explored how queer themes have been woven into horror for over 250 years, highlighting that the genre has always had an inherently queer essence. It resonates with many members of the LGBTQ+ community since it often reflects feelings of otherness, fear, and survival, which are familiar experiences for those who have faced societal marginalization.
Listen to Episode 28. Gay HorrorListen to Episode 79. Queer Mysticism: Gay Men & SpiritualityListen to Episode 80. Queer Haunts: Happy Halloween (with Ralph Anthony)Listen to Episode 97. Diversifying Queer Horror Cinema (with Jose Nateras)Listen to Episode 124. Queer Frights & New Media: Horror Beyond the Screen (with Bobby Torrez)
In this episode, Sean Abley, a horror journalist, award-winning playwright, and creator of Gay of the Dead, joins us to discuss the significance of queer representation, the power of building a horror community, and his latest project, Queer Horror: A Film Guide.
Related Episodes:
Learn More About Sean AbleyFollow Sean on InstagramBuy Queer Horror: A Film GuideBecome a Gay of the Dead MemberFollow Gay of the Dead on InstagramFollow Gay of the Dead on FacebookTo Live List
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In previous episodes, we explored the history of gay representation in TV and film, touching on stereotypes and the challenges faced by queer creators. One major roadblock has been the "Bury Your Gays" trope, which limits authentic representation by perpetuating harmful narratives that often depict LGBTQ+ characters as tragic or expendable, rather than allowing for diverse, fully realized stories.
Listen to Episode 06. Gay Panic DefenseListen to Episode 07. The History of Gay Representation in TV & FilmListen to Episode 28. Gay HorrorListen to Episode 80. Queer Haunts: Happy Halloween (with Ralph Anthony)Listen to Episode 97. Diversifying Queer Horror Cinema (with Jose Nateras)Listen to Episode 108. Celebrate Queer Joy
In this episode, weâre diving into the origins of the "Bury Your Gays" trope, examining its ongoing presence in media, and discussing how creators can shift away from it to foster more authentic and meaningful LGBTQ+ representation in the future.
Related Episodes:
Bury Your GaysVasquez Always DiesEver Wondered How to Kill Off a Queer Character Without Falling into the 'Bury Your Gays' Trope?Hollywood's "Bury Your Gays" Trope Explained: History & ControversyDepraved Homosexual15 Recent, Especially Brutal, Examples of the Bury Your Gays TropeSupernatural: Castiel Sacrifices Himself to Save Dean From DeathIt Chapter Two: Adrian Mellon Death Scene
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In previous episodes, we've explored how queer themes have been woven into horror for over 250 years, mirroring experiences of otherness, fear, and survivalâcommon realities for those facing societal marginalization. Today, the horror genre has transcended traditional media channels, expanding its reach through platforms like YouTube and podcasts, where creators can explore these themes in fresh, innovative ways.
Listen to Episode 28. Gay HorrorListen to Episode 80. Queer Haunts: Happy Halloween (with Ralph Anthony)Listen to Episode 97. Diversifying Queer Horror Cinema (with Jose Nateras)
In this episode, Bobby Torrez, a horror YouTuber and podcaster, joins us to discuss the ins and outs of his horror reviews, navigate stereotypes and tropes in horror, and discuss how queer horror can push boundaries to become even more inclusive.
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Follow Bobby Torrez on InstagramFollow Bobby Torrez on TwitterSubscribe to Bobby Likes It SpookyTune in to People Under the ScaresTune in to Scream Kingz PodcastTo Live List
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Coming out is a deeply personal and pivotal moment for LGBTQ+ individuals, encompassing the courageous act of sharing their authentic identity with others, fostering self-acceptance, and seeking understanding and validation.
Listen to Episode 77. Coming OutListen to Episode 99. Coming Out Later in Life (with Kevin Oâ Connor)To Live List
In this episode, I reflect on my coming out journey from a decade ago, sharing the funny, cringey, and self-discovery that have shaped me along the way.
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Presidential administrations significantly influence the well-being of the LGBTQ+ community through their policies on civil rights, healthcare, and anti-discrimination protections, which can either advance or hinder equality and acceptance. Additionally, an administration's public stance on LGBTQ+ issues sets a national tone, impacting societal attitudes and the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals.
Listen to Episode 03. Surviving Another PandemicListen to Episode 27. Matthew ShepardListen to Episode 112. Project 2025
In this episode, weâre reviewing the Trump administration's stance on LGBTQ+ rights from 2017 to 2021, examining the impact of its actions on civil rights, healthcare access, and protections for the LGBTQ+ community.
Related Episodes:
GLAAD's Trump Accountability TrackerTrump in 1999: "I Am Very Pro-Choice"The Advocate Interview with Donald TrumpDonald Trumpâs More Accepting Views on Gay Issues Set Him Apart in G.O.P."Itâs Not My Thing": A History of Trumpâs Shifting Relationship with the LGBT CommunityDonald Trump Congratulated Elton John on His Civil Partnership in 2005Donald Trump Says Heâs Against Gay MarriageDoes Donald Trump Support Civil Unions or Not?Gay Conservatives Bring Trump and the Party to CPACDonald Trump Has Words for Transgender Miss Universe ContestantDonald Trump Comes Out Against North Carolina's HB2LGBT Groups Blast Trump for Voicing Support for HB2 in RaleighRead Donald Trumpâs Speech on the Orlando ShootingTo Live List
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In numerous episodes, weâve learned that gay men are more likely to struggle with mental health issues due to the trauma experienced from growing up in a society that often stigmatizes their identity. Despite these challenges, we must heal from trauma so we can lead fulfilling lives and make a difference for the LGBTQ+ community, fostering both personal well-being and collective resilience.
Listen to Episode 11. Overcoming Internalized HomophobiaListen to Episode 26. Gay & AnxiousListen to Episode 42. Are You Emotionally Unavailable?
In this episode, Dr. Jason Durant, a prominent gay psychologist, joins us to discuss how his own journey has shaped his empathetic and insightful approach to therapy, how he addresses common mental health struggles gay men face, and his new book, which offers valuable guidance and support for gay men navigating their mental health journeys.
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Learn More About Dr. Jason DurantFollow Dr. Jason Durant on InstagramBuy Boy From the North Country: A Queer Therapist Looks Back at Overcoming Trauma With MindfulnessTo Live List
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Since the 1890s, the term queer was initially used as a derogatory slur against gay men until it was later reclaimed by the LGBTQ+ community as a symbol of empowerment and inclusivity. Today, itâs used non-offensively as an inclusive term that embraces a wide spectrum of sexual orientations and gender identities within the community.
Listen to Bonus 12. Spooky StorytimeListen to Episode 03. Surviving Another PandemicListen to Episode 23. Let's Talk About the F WordListen to Episode 51. ACT UP: Silence = Death
In this episode, we're taking a look into the etymology of the word queer, tracing its origins as a slur, and examining the pivotal moments and motivations behind the LGBTQ+ community's powerful reclamation of the term.
Related Episodes:Additional Resources:
Queer (Etymology)Queer (Definition)How the Word âQueerâ was Adopted by the LGBTQ CommunityMarquess of QueensberryâQueerâ History: A History of QueerOscar Wilde TrialReviled, Reclaimed and Respected: The History of the Word 'Queer'Come Out!Support the show
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In recent years, several states have enacted bans on queer books, citing unsubstantiated claims ranging from content deemed inappropriate to concerns about age-appropriateness. These bans have restricted access to diverse and affirming literature for the LGBTQ+ community, leading to feelings of erasure and marginalization, and hindered the representation and visibility of queer identities, which is crucial for fostering understanding and acceptance.
Listen to Episode 95. Take a Page from #GayBookstagram (with Rod Lujano)Listen to Episode 101. Sci-Fi: The Future is Queer (with TQ Sims)
In this episode, Alexander Rigby, a New York Times Bestselling Editor at Penguin Random House and curator of the publisherâs LGBTQ+ Network, joins us to discuss the impacts of queer book bans on LGBTQ+ people, how Penguin Random House is continuing to promote queer voices, and ways the LGBTQ+ community can support queer authors and push back against unjust book bans.
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Learn More About Alexander RigbyFollow Alexander on InstagramFollow Penguin Random House LGBTQ+ Network on InstagramCheck Out Pride in Your WordsFollow Penguin Random House on InstagramTo Live List
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Heterosexism is a system of attitudes, biases, and discrimination that privileges heterosexuality and marginalizes and oppresses LGBTQ+ people. This pervasive bias can lead to significant negative impacts on LGBTQ+ individuals, including increased rates of mental health issues, social isolation, and barriers to accessing healthcare and other essential services.
Listen to Episode 39. We Are Family: Part 1 (with Michelle Loveless)Listen to Episode 59. Say Bye Bye Bye to Bi Erasure (with Sam McClain)Listen to Episode 63. The Stonewall RiotsListen to Episode 69. That's So Gay (You Really Shouldn't Say That)
In this episode, weâre delving into the concept of heterosexism, exploring how it manifests in various aspects of society, the trauma it can inflict on LGBTQ+ individuals, and strategies for overcoming this pervasive bias.
Related Episodes:
Homophobia DefinitionGeorge WeinbergHeterosexism (Definition)The Stonewall Riots: Coming Out in the StreetsHeroes of Stonewall: Craig RodwellBeyond âHomophobiaâ: Thinking About Sexual Prejudice and Stigma in the Twenty-First CenturyPrejudice, Social Stress, and Mental Health in Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Populations: Conceptual Issues and Research EvidenceThe Context of Anti-Gay ViolenceHomophobia: A Weapon of SexismHeterosexism & HomophobiaHeterosexist Microaggressions, Student Academic Experience and Perception of Campus Climate: Findings From an Italian Higher Education ContextMicroaggressions in Everyday Life: Race, Gender, and Sexual OrientationHow Heterosexism Can Be TraumaticHow to Combat HeterosexismTo Live List
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In previous episodes, we explored pop cultureâs resonance with the LGBTQ+ community, serving as both a reflection of societal changes and a source of representation and validation. Pop icons in music, film, television, and other media often highlight diverse narratives and characters that resonate with the experiences and identities of LGBTQ+ people while advocating for equal rights and visibility.
Listen to Episode 04. Pop Icons and Their Gay Emotional Appeal
In this episode, Carmine Davis, singer and host of The Carmine Davis Show, joins us to discuss his relationship with pop culture, icons who have inspired his career, and how inclusive pop culture can be a positive force of change for the LGBTQ+ community.
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Learn More About Carmine DavisFollow Carmine Davis on InstagramTune in to The Carmine Davis ShowStream All Friendship is RomanticBook Carmine Davis on CameoTo Live List
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Art has been a vital form of expression for queer people, providing a powerful platform to explore, celebrate, and communicate their identities, experiences, and struggles in a world where their voices are often marginalized.
Learn More About Jacoby NordbergFollow Jacoby on InstagramFollow Jacoby on TikTokCheck Out Jacobyâs PortfolioTo Live List
In this episode, Jacoby Nordberg joins us to discuss his experiences as a queer artist, exploring how art serves as a profound medium for expressing his identity and the broader impact of art in empowering and giving voice to the LGBTQ+ community.
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LGBTQ+ individuals often struggle to find their community and a place of support, encountering societal stigma and discrimination that can make it challenging to connect with others who share their experiences and understand their unique needs. LGBTQ+ individuals who also have autism often navigate a complex intersection of identities, facing distinct challenges and experiences that require support and understanding.
Follow Max Korten on InstagramTo Live List
In this episode, Max Korten joins us to discuss his experiences as a gay man with autism, queer dating with a developmental disability, and how we can all work together to make the LGBTQ+ community a more inclusive space.
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Located at the northern tip of Cape Code in Massachusetts, Provincetown is a coastal town renowned for its vibrant arts scene and historic significance and celebrated as a premier gay tourist destination known for its inclusive atmosphere, lively LGBTQ+ events, and welcoming community.
Listen to Episode 17. Mobsters & Mos: How the Mafia Owned Gay NightlifeListen to Episode 24. Gay Villages: Won't You Be My Gaybor�Listen to Episode 65. 65. Fire Island
In this episode, weâre diving into Provincetown's rich history, exploring how it evolved into a premier gay tourist destination and uncovering the vibrant tapestry of its queer heritage.
Related Episodes:Additional Resources:
US Census BureauA Brief History of Provincetown, MassachusettsHow Ptown Got So Gay, Gay, GayWhy Is Provincetown So Gay?Cape Queer? A Case Study of Provincetown, MassachusettsThe Pilgrim HouseThe Pilgrim House Hotel (May 17, 1973)Fantasia Fair: Miscellaneous DocumentsWomencraftsProvincetown Business GuildCarnivalPtown Hacks (Towleroad 2015)Bear Week ProvincetownBear WeekSupport the show
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LGBTQ+ advocacy dates back to early 20th-century efforts, such as the formation of the Society for Human Rights in 1924, and gained momentum with landmark events like the 1969 Stonewall Riots, which galvanized a global movement for equality and rights. Despite significant progress, ongoing advocacy is crucial to combat persistent discrimination, ensure legal protections, and promote societal acceptance for LGBTQ+ individuals worldwide.
Follow Anthony Munger on InstagramLearn More About Louisville Pride FoundationTo Live List
In this episode, Anthony Munger, Program Manager for the Louisville Pride Foundation and a licensed social worker, joins us to discuss the importance of continued LGBTQ+ advocacy, especially around areas impacting LGBTQ+ health.
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The Trump administration had a detrimental impact on LGBTQ+ rights by rolling back protections and supporting religious exemptions that allowed discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals. Looking ahead to the 2024 election, The Heritage Foundation has published Project 2025, a 920-page extremist policy agenda and staffing blueprint with conservative ideals, for the next Republican administration to swiftly implement upon taking office in January 2025.
Listen to Episode 30. Gay Sex Education (or the Lack Thereof)Listen to Episode 46. Obergefell v. Hodges and the Ongoing Fight for Marriage EqualityListen to Episode 67. 303 Creative LLC v. Elenis
In this episode, weâre dissecting the Heritage Foundation's conservative influence, including its significant impact on the Trump administration's policies, and why Project 2025 poses a serious threat to LGBTQ+ Americans and democracy at large.
Related Episodes:Additional Resources:
The Heritage FoundationMandate for LeadershipHow One Conservative Think Tank is Stocking Trumpâs GovernmentKevin RobertsDonations Have Surged to Groups Linked to Conservative Project 2025Mandate for Leadership: The Conservative PromiseThe White House Gender Policy CouncilCongressional Leaders Form Task Force to Counter Project 2025 and Defend DemocracySign the Petition to Reject Project 2025Sign the Petition Urging Congress to Pass the Equality ActTo Live List
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In today's challenging real estate market, aspiring home buyers grapple with rising prices, limited inventory, and intense competition, making the pursuit of homeownership more difficult than ever. To add a layer of complexity, gay home buyers may encounter challenges such as discrimination, limited representation, and concerns about acceptance in certain neighborhoods, highlighting the ongoing need for a more inclusive and affirming real estate environment.
Listen to Episode 24. Gay Villages: Won't You Be My Gaybor? Listen to Episode 106. Long Live Queer Nightlife (with Amin Ghaziani)
In this episode, Ryan Windt, a Philadelphia-based real estate agent, joins us to share key factors that LGBTQ+ people should be mindful of when house hunting, along with homebuying tips and myths.
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Send Ryan Your Real Estate InquiriesFollow Ryan on InstagramWhy You Should Let a Gay Realtor Help You Find Your Next Home!Why Gayborhoods Matter: The Street Empirics of Urban SexualitiesOnce a Crucial Refuge, âGayborhoodsâ Lose L.G.B.T.Q. Residents in Major CitiesTo Live List
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