A Jaded Gay

While Pride is often seen as a time for parades and rainbow flags, it can also be a reminder of the trauma, shame, and disconnection that many LGBTQ+ people, especially gay men, carry within themselves. Yet Pride can also be a time of reclamation, offering an opportunity to honor queer joy and reconnect with our desires and authentic selves.

In this episode, Court Vox, a leading somatic sex educator, surrogate partner, and...

In previous episodes, we discussed how pop culture has long served as a powerful space for gay men to find representation, expression, and community, offering both a reflection of their struggles and a source of empowerment. Within this space, dolls and collectibles further provide a medium for gay men to explore themes of identity, often becoming symbols of empowerment and nostalgia within queer culture.

In this episode, ...

In recent years, "twink death"—the idea that a young, slim gay man loses social value as he ages out of the "twink" category—has gained traction as a viral online concept. Though often treated as a humorous social media trend, it highlights the deeper issues around ageism, body image, and the pressure to conform to narrow beauty standards within the gay community.

In this episode, we unpack the cultural...

In previous episodes, we explored how LGBTQ+ media representation has evolved significantly since the early days of cinema, shifting from largely negative stereotypes and hidden identities to more nuanced and diverse portrayals of queer experiences. Despite this progress, there still seems to be a lack of LGBTQ+ voices and perspectives behind the cameras, ensuring that characters are authentically represented.

In this epis...

LGBTQ+ individuals often navigate the diverse landscape of the queer community to forge connections that resonate with their identities, seeking spaces where they feel seen, understood, and supported. The bear community, with its celebration of body positivity and inclusivity, provides a unique subculture within the larger LGBTQ+ spectrum, fostering a strong sense of belonging and community engagement.

In this episode, Mar...

In a time when relationships are no longer confined to traditional labels, ethical non-monogamy allows gay individuals to build connections that align with their unique desires and values. By fostering open communication, trust, and mutual consent, non-monogamous relationships can provide fulfilling connections that honor the evolving dynamics of love and partnership.

In this episode, Jeff Hudson joins us to share his pers...

In previous episodes, we've explored the key themes of gay villages and how destinations like Fire Island and Provincetown serve as sanctuaries for the queer community. Gay men, in particular, are often passionate about travel because it provides a sense of freedom, adventure, and the chance to engage with diverse cultures, communities, and experiences that affirm their identities.

In this episode, Jason Heidemann, a ...

Throughout many episodes, we’ve discussed how gay men continue to grapple with the shame they internalized as children growing up in a predominantly straight society that often invalidated or condemned their identities. This lingering shame can evolve into deep-rooted trauma, affecting their self-worth, relationships, and overall mental well-being.

In this episode, we're exploring the theme of gay identity development...

In past episodes, we've explored pivotal moments in LGBTQ+ history that have often been overlooked or erased, highlighting why remembering our past is so vital. With the current administration actively trying to erase our history, preserving and sharing these stories—from hidden queer figures to the fight for educational accessibility—is more urgent than ever.

In this episode, Michael Venturiello, an LGBTQ+ historian ...

The current landscape of LGBTQ+ bullying remains pervasive, especially in schools and online, where discrimination and harassment can have devastating impacts on mental health and well-being. Not only does this isolate individuals, but it also perpetuates a culture of fear and exclusion, making it harder for the community to achieve acceptance and equality.

In this episode, Mike Keller, an author and speaker focused on rai...

For gay men raised in religious environments, they often internalize harmful messages that condemn their sexual orientation, fostering a deep sense of unworthiness or fear. This religious trauma can manifest in lasting struggles with shame and self-acceptance, but through self-compassion, supportive communities, and healing practices, they can reclaim their sense of authenticity and pride in their identity.

In this episode...

Het lag is a humorous term for the exhaustion and disorientation queer people experience after prolonged exposure to exclusively straight environments. While the term is lighthearted, it speaks to the very real psychological toll of minority stress—the mental and emotional burden of navigating predominantly heterosexual spaces, code-switching, and enduring heterosexism.

In this episode, we’re diving into the concept of min...

While many people equate Pride to June, Pride events happen across the world throughout the year, amplifying the voices of the LGBTQ+ community. Given the recent political climate and ongoing challenges to LGBTQ+ rights, it's more important than ever to celebrate, participate, and advocate for equality and inclusion 365 days a year.

In this episode, Patrick Gevas from Miami Beach Pride joins us to dives into the signi...

While many people support LGBTQ+ rights and equality, true allyship goes a step further by actively standing against discriminatory legislation and amplifying queer voices. In this current political climate, it’s crucial that our allies remain engaged to protect hard-fought rights and continue pushing for progress toward a more inclusive future.

In this episode, Greg Baird, a global lecturer and educator on LGBTQIA+ civil ...

Gay stereotypes often arise from oversimplified and exaggerated portrayals in the media, which overlook the complexity of individual experiences and reinforce societal biases. While some of these stereotypes may seem harmless or humorous, they can lead to real-world consequences, including discrimination and alienation.

In this episode, Mike Johnson and Kyle Getz, hosts of Gayish, join us to discuss their new book, You&apo...

We’ve previously examined the history of gay representation in TV and film, tracing its evolution from early portrayals to groundbreaking moments like Ellen, which helped pave the way for greater visibility. Among these influential shows, Will & Grace stood out as a game-changer, bringing gay characters into mainstream sitcoms and normalizing LGBTQ+ identities for a wide audience—though its representation wasn’t without flaws.<...

The term "daddy" has been used as slang for over 300 years and was embraced by the gay community in the 1970s, particularly within the leather subculture, leading to the popular phrase "leather daddy." Today, in gay culture, "daddy" represents an older, confident, and nurturing figure, often admired for their authority, maturity, and sexual appeal, while also evoking playful and affectionate dynamics w...

In previous episodes, we discussed how gay men often found refuge in mafia-owned private bottle clubs, where they could drink and socialize without the fear of police raids or public hostility. These underground venues, while risky due to their illegal nature, offered a rare safe haven where gay men could express themselves more freely and form a sense of community away from the prying eyes of a largely unwelcoming society.

While playful putdowns and throwing shade have long been a celebrated form of humor and bonding among gay men, they can sometimes perpetuate cliques, exclusion, and toxic behaviors within the community. Not only does this behavior reinforces harmful stereotypes like the "bitchy queen" or "mean gay," but it also deepens divisions in an already marginalized community, reflecting the way we are often treated by the...