A Jaded Gay

As a Black gay man, James Baldwin became a widely recognized voice exploring the intersection of race, sexuality, and identity during a time when both were fiercely contested in America. Today, his work continues to inspire conversations about justice, equality, and authentic self-expression.

In this episode, we’re diving into Baldwin’s life, career, and the ways his writing and activism shaped public conversation while le...

LGBTQ+ dating often feels like navigating a smaller dating pool, and many gay men turn to dating apps for connection, dates, and hookups. But constant comparison on these platforms can lead gay men to believe there aren’t enough compatible partners, which impacts how we approach gay dating and our own self-worth.

In this episode, we’re exploring scarcity mindset in gay men, why it shows up so strongly in dating, and how we...

While drag is a pop culture staple, its roots trace back to the historic Ballroom scene of the 1800s, where Black and Latinx communities built chosen families and celebrated identity through competitive balls. That legacy lives on today through drag performers who embrace fandom and storytelling with humor, heart, and cultural influence.

In this episode, Heavens 2 Betsy Stratton, Miss Gay Pennsylvania America 2025, joins u...

In previous episodes, we explored how to stay focused on attracting the right kinds of guys into our lives and the power of manifestation. As we move into the new year, we have the opportunity to realign our intentions and open ourselves to the experiences, relationships, and growth we truly desire.

In this episode, Ryan Lu joins us to unpack how manifestation can empower queer people step into their authentic selves and s...

In previous episodes, we’ve explored how different expressions of masculinity, from archetypes like Castro Clones and metrosexuality to gym culture, intersect across the gay world. Within subcultures such as bros, leather, and bears, masculinity is often elevated, creating a complex dynamic where gay men are both drawn to and shaped by these ideals.

In this episode, we’re unpacking bro culture and exploring why gay men may...

Previously, we reviewed the Trump administration’s record on LGBTQ+ rights from 2017 to 2021. As the horrors persist under the new Trump administration, it’s vital to recognize how its actions continue to undermine civil rights, healthcare access, and protections for the LGBTQ+ community.

In this episode, we’ll examine the ongoing attacks on LGBTQ+ rights carried out by the Trump administration in 2025.

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For gay men, pop culture and reality TV often provide campy, glamorous spaces that echo queer experiences of self-expression and resilience. The Real Housewives franchise, in particular, captivates with its mix of drama, individuality, and over-the-top spectacle.

In this previously released Patreon bonus episode, Eric Praniewicz dives into the world of The Real Housewives to explore why the franchise resonates so strongly with gay m...

As we close out 2025, it’s hard to ignore this year’s political turmoil, with uncertainty about our future looming over us. With the holidays upon us, it’s natural to feel bittersweet as we look back and dream of brighter days ahead.

In this episode, we’re revisiting this year's most powerful conversations on politics, identity, and resilience, reminding us that hope, unity, and love can overcome fear.

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In previous episodes, we’ve discussed how stereotypical gay culture has idolized youth, beauty, and sex. This fixation has led some gay men to equate midlife with “aging out” of the community, often resulting in internalized shame and a complicated relationship with aging.

In this episode, Hunter Flournoy, a licensed therapist, coach, breathworker, healer, and spiritual guide, joins us to talk about how gay men can confron...

LGBTQ+ history has long been overlooked, ignored, or actively erased, leaving us with only fragments of a past that deserves to be preserved and celebrated. That absence makes historical fiction a meaningful platform for reclaiming space and allowing queer characters to exist in time periods that have traditionally denied their presence or humanity.

In this episode, Jeza Belle, a New York City-based drag queen and author o...

Previously, we discussed how some queer men find solace and empowerment in spiritual practices like astrology, which offers a means of self-discovery and affirmation. Rooted in introspection and symbolism, queer astrology can help individuals reclaim their narratives and connect more deeply with their authentic selves.

In this episode, Danny Santos, an astrologer, tarot expert, and psychic medium, joins us to explore how s...

Social media has created vibrant online communities where LGBTQ+ people can connect, share experiences, and affirm their identities. Platforms like TikTok offer support, visibility, and a sense of belonging that many may not find in their offline lives.

In this episode, Nick Paul of The Wicked Pumpkin joins us to explore how TikTok nurtures queer community, creativity, and connection, especially during spooky season, when ...

Queer beauty celebrates self-expression, authenticity, and fluidity, challenging traditional beauty standards and embracing identities across the spectrum. By centering queer voices, beauty becomes a powerful tool for empowerment, allowing individuals to reclaim their image and take pride in their identity.

In this episode, Vincent Branchesi and Karim Fadel, co-founders of Grimoire, join us to discuss how they’re redefinin...

Societal pressure on men to appear tough and self-reliant can lead to the avoidance of medical care since vulnerability is wrongly equated with weakness. For gay men, this is further complicated by the fear of discrimination or judgment in healthcare settings, creating additional barriers to accessing necessary treatment.

In this episode, Mickie Kennedy, author of Glandscapes, joins us to discuss how queer identity and mas...

Queer bookstores have long been more than just places to buy books, serving as cultural hubs, safe havens, and essential spaces for connection, representation, and affirmation within the LGBTQ+ community. As we navigate an increasingly hostile political landscape, building and sustaining these spaces is not only an act of resistance, but one of resilience and solidarity.

In this episode, Greg Newton and Donnie Jochum, co-f...

Many gay men grow up internalizing social norms that dictate how they should act, love, or present themselves—distorting their sense of self and making it harder to connect authentically with others. But we can begin to heal when we embrace radical acceptance, challenge outdated narratives, and learn to show up for ourselves with compassion.

In this episode, Sam Fogarty, a licensed therapist and clinical supervisor at myTh...

Previously, we explored the concept of love bombing, where one partner overwhelms the other with excessive affection and attention early in a relationship to mask manipulative intentions. This behavior often sets the stage for a narcissistic relationship, a toxic dynamic in which one partner uses charm, control, and emotional manipulation to maintain power.

In this episode, Mack Ciccone joins us to share his journey of lea...

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.

In this episode, we continue our Gay Icons series wit...

For gay men, humor has long been a powerful tool for resilience, offering both a means of survival through marginalization and a way to reclaim joy and identity. As queer comedy evolves and gains mainstream visibility, it remains a radical act of authenticity, resistance, and connection—especially during Pride, when celebrating visibility and community is more important than ever.

In this episode, Michael John Ciszewski jo...