Best Diiorio Podcasts (2025)

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When Attraction Fades 24:47

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1h ago24:47

24:47

Why does attraction fade… and what can we do about it? In this episode we get real about attraction in long-term relationships. The spark doesn’t always burn forever, and losing sexual interest doesn’t mean the relationship is doomed. We talk about why attraction naturally shifts over time and how couples can ignite intimacy. We explore: Why attrac…

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What’s Really Sexy (and Nobody Talks About It) 40:35

7d ago40:35

40:35

After unpacking our culture’s obsession with “perfect” bodies, this week we’re flipping the script. In this episode, we’re celebrating what’s actually hot: the things that don’t get enough love in the gay world. We’re talking dad bods, wrinkles, kindness, confidence, awkward charm, conversational skills, and all the real stuff that makes someone ma…

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How to Thrive in the Culture of Body Perfection 44:22

14d ago44:22

44:22

From the gym to social media, gay men are constantly surrounded by images of the “ideal” body. But what does all this perfection chasing actually cost us? In this episode, we explore how body perfection culture impacts gay men on a deeper level: from belonging and self-worth to intimacy and identity. We open up about our own journeys with body imag…

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Best & Worst Guitar Gear of 2025 – The Good, Bad, and Ugly 1:21:19

19d ago1:21:19

1:21:19

Best & Worst Guitar Gear of 2025 - The Good, Bad, and Ugly! … Continue readingBest & Worst Guitar Gear of 2025 – The Good, Bad, and UglyBy INTHEBLUES Tone Podcast

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Radical Honesty: Letting Yourself Be Known 29:06

23d ago29:06

29:06

In this episode, we dive into what radical honesty really means- not the brutally blunt “telling it like it is” version, but the deeper, more vulnerable kind that lets you actually be known. We explore why being honest is both terrifying and liberating, the subtle ways we still avoid it, and how honesty differs from harsh truth-telling. We share ou…

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Twinks, Jocks, and Bears, Oh My! The Obsession with Gay Labels 25:31

28d ago25:31

25:31

Today we’re diving into one of the most iconic (and hilarious) parts of gay culture: labels. In this episode, we unpack why gay men are so obsessed with categories like “twink,” “daddy,” “masc,” “otter,” “guy next door,” and every micro-label in between… and how these identities shape the way we date, belong, and see ourselves. We explore: Why labe…

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The Slow Fade: When We Ghost Without Ghosting 47:43

1M ago47:43

47:43

Today we’re talking about The Slow Fade: that slow, quiet drifting apart where the messages get shorter, the replies slower, and the energy shifts until one day…it’s just silence. In this episode, we’re unpacking: Why we quietly quit people instead of having real conversations What’s actually happening beneath the surface for both sides — the Fader…

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Nesting: Creating Platonic Spaces for Healing and Authentic Connection in the Gay Community 48:11

1M ago48:11

48:11

What we want you to gain from this episode is the importance of non-sexualized, safe, and brave spaces for gay men to heal and grow together. By the end of this episode, you will be able to identify what a nest is, how you could benefit from one, and where to find or create one if you are interested in nesting. The concepts and questions we explore…

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How to Open Your Heart to Receive Love 45:14

2M ago45:14

45:14

We all say we want love… but are we actually open to receiving it? In this episode, we’re going deeper into what it really means to open your heart. From the subtle subconscious programming that keeps love at arm’s length to the sneaky ways we self-sabotage, we’re unpacking the hidden barriers that make intimacy feel unsafe (even when we crave it m…

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Falling in Love With The Fantasy 44:25

2M ago44:25

44:25

Some of us don’t fall in love with people, we fall in love with an idea of them. The story, the potential, the fantasy of the perfect boyfriend who finally makes everything click. But that idealized version of love often keeps us chasing what looks right instead of what feels real. In this episode, Michael DiIorio and therapist, Michael Pezzullo, e…

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Joy Killers: How and Why We Sabotage Joy 40:54

2M ago40:54

40:54

Why does joy feel so hard to hold onto? In this episode of Gay Men Going Deeper, we’re revealing the joy killers: those sneaky ways we sabotage happiness even when life is going well. We explore: The difference between chasing pleasure and cultivating joy Foreboding joy (a.k.a. waiting for the other shoe to drop) and how it robs us of the present. …

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Following Your Joy: A Special Solo Episode with Reno 28:52

2M ago28:52

28:52

What would your day, your week, your next year, or even your life look like if you spent it following your joy? What if joy became your North Star? Your guiding light? Your compass? What is in the way of you experiencing more joy in your life? What if you could find joy in how you dress, what you eat, how you exercise, where you live, what you do f…

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How to Find More Joy in Your Life 47:02

3M ago47:02

47:02

Joy isn’t just fireworks and big milestones; it’s in the ordinary, everyday moments we often overlook. Yet for many of us, joy feels slippery and hard to find. In this episode of Gay Men Going Deeper, we’re diving into what joy really feels like, how it shifts as we evolve and age, and why it’s less about chasing highs and more about cultivating pr…

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Perfectionism, Pressure, and the Gay Overachiever 1:05:48

3M ago1:05:48

1:05:48

You know the type — ambitious, perfectionistic, and always striving to do more and be more… yet secretly fuelled by pressure, anxiety, and fear. In this episode, Michael is joined by special guest Scott Stirrett as they share their own stories of hustling for achievement and how they’ve learned to stay ambitious without destroying themselves in the…

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It’s time for a Change, Texas Trip, YouTube updates, and more! 26:29

3M ago26:29

26:29

It’s time for a change, Texas Trip, YouTube updates and more! Welcome to an audio only version of the podcast for everyone listening on any podcasting software. Subscribe on YouTube, Continue readingIt’s time for a Change, Texas Trip, YouTube updates, and more!By INTHEBLUES Tone Podcast

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Radical Acceptance: Grief’s Final Lesson 34:54

3M ago34:54

34:54

In this final installment of our 4-part series on grief, we explore the powerful practice of Radical Acceptance—what it means, why it’s so difficult, and how it becomes the turning point in your healing journey. Whether you're grieving the person you used to be, mourning a friendship that faded, or facing the slow heartbreak of watching your parent…

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Aging Parents and Pre-Grief 46:14

3M ago46:14

46:14

As our parents get older, many of us are faced with a new kind of grief- the quiet, ongoing loss that comes not from death, but from watching the people who once raised us begin to slow down and need us in ways they never did before. In this deeply personal episode, we open up about the emotional complexity of witnessing our parents age. From role …

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Grieving Relationships 49:32

4M ago49:32

49:32

Not all grief is about death. Sometimes, the hardest losses are the people (or pets) who are still alive—but no longer in our lives. In this episode, we’re talking about the heartbreak of losing relationships: romantic breakups, friendship fallouts, and the deep sadness that comes with saying goodbye to a beloved pet. We explore how grief shows up …

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Grieving Your Past 39:54

4M ago39:54

39:54

Grief isn’t just about death—it’s also about the quiet losses we carry as we grow and evolve. In this episode, we’re kicking off a 4-part series on grief by exploring what it means to grieve your past. Whether it’s a version of yourself that felt more confident, more desirable, or more socially “relevant,” we often feel a deep emotional pull toward…

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How to Put Yourself Out There 56:31

4M ago56:31

56:31

Most of us want to be seen, heard, and understood, but the fear of judgment can stop us from doing so. Whether it’s being more social, speaking your feelings, or sharing creative work, putting yourself out there can feel risky, especially when we’ve been conditioned to play it safe due to past hurt or rejection. In this episode, we’re sharing: Our …

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The Problem With Self-Love 35:11

4M ago35:11

35:11

We all know self-love is important, but what happens when it goes too far in the wrong direction? In this episode, Michael DiIorio is joined by therapist Michael Pezzullo for an honest conversation about the shadow side of self-love. Together, they explore: The difference between self-comforting and self-coddling How emotional sensitivity can becom…

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Lone Wolf Energy 49:14

5M ago49:14

49:14

Some of us didn’t choose to become lone wolves—we were shaped into them. Many gay men have learned to rely only on themselves, and while that self-sufficiency can feel empowering, it often comes at the cost of connection and intimacy. In this personal and vulnerable episode, Michael and Matt open up about their own lone wolf energy—where it comes f…

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Why Do I Keep Attracting Unavailable Men? 58:27

5M ago58:27

58:27

In this episode, Matt speaks with queer relationship coach Lonay Halloum about why we attract unavailable men. This episode will provide you with a deeper understanding of your relationship patterns and why you might be attracting unavailable men. This episode was inspired by a deep desire to help you heal the subconscious programs that lead to sel…

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Rejection Sensitivity 1:00:25

5M ago1:00:25

1:00:25

Why do so many gay men struggle with deep fears of rejection—whether in dating, friendships, or even at work? In this episode, we’re unpacking rejection sensitivity: where it comes from, how it shows up in everyday life, and why it can feel so intense for us. Some of the topics we cover: The early roots of rejection sensitivity (hint: it starts you…

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Overcoming Uncertainty: A Special Solo Episode with Reno 38:42

5M ago38:42

38:42

How would you, your life, and your experience be if you were free from uncertainty, instability, and insecurity? While it can’t be promised you won’t have to experience these again, in this special solo episode, Reno shares personal experiences, perspectives, anecdotes, and practices to help you relate to them in ways that do create more freedom, c…

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Claiming Your Power 53:34

5M ago53:34

53:34

We may be adults, but a lot of us are still living in emotional childhood—blaming others for how we feel and how we act. When you give other people control over your emotions, you give away your power. In this episode, we're breaking down what it means to take responsibility for your emotions and why it is fundamental if you want true freedom, stro…

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Tube Amp Snob Goes Digital: Shane & Dr. Ric Discuss 45:45

6M ago45:45

45:45

Tube Amp Snob Goes Digital: Shane & Dr. Ric Discuss In today’s podcast, Dr. Ric and I discuss his sudden change from using Tube amps to digital effects processor pedals.By INTHEBLUES Tone Podcast

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How to Soften the Inner Critic 1:05:42

6M ago1:05:42

1:05:42

In this episode, Matt speaks with author and love advocate, Scott Stabile. Together, they break down the psycho-spiritual aspects of the inner critic and how to best work with it from a place of love. If you are someone who is hard on yourself and has a tough time finding self-love and self-compassion, this episode will help you develop greater awa…

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Feeling Your Emotions 1:00:58

6M ago1:00:58

1:00:58

What happens when we avoid feeling our emotions? In this episode, we explore the importance of emotional awareness: tuning in instead of checking out. We share what happens when we suppress our feelings, and how to navigate the tough ones with compassion and care. We also explore: The link between emotional avoidance and things like addiction, depr…

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Pride Panel Discussion 46:18

6M ago46:18

46:18

It’s Pride Month, and with everything going on in the world right now, it feels especially important to pause and reflect. In this special panel discussion episode, Reno Johnston is joined by three incredible guests—Mark Fleming, Keone Wales, and Jordan Layne—for a candid panel discussion on the meaning of Pride: where it began, how it’s evolved, a…

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Are LGBTQ Rights Under Attack? 49:14

6M ago49:14

49:14

In 2025, LGBTQ rights are facing renewed challenges- from the rise of far-right populism to legislative rollbacks and the rise of hate sweeping across the globe. But how serious is the threat? And if the fight is back on… are we ready? This week, Michael is joined by author and longtime activist, Tim McCaskell, who’s been on the front lines of LGBT…

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Has Pride Lost Its Meaning? 49:21

7M ago49:21

49:21

In today’s episode, we’re diving into a question many in our community have been quietly (or loudly) asking: Has Pride lost its meaning? In this wide-ranging conversation, we reflect on how Pride has evolved from its radical roots in activism to its present-day celebratory scene shaped by media, politics, and corporate sponsorships. We talk about w…

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Dating as a Demisexual 1:13:38

7M ago1:13:38

1:13:38

In this episode, Matt speaks with a panel of demisexual gay men about their experiences dating as demisexuals. What we want you to get out of this episode is greater awareness of yourself if you are demisexual, and to know you are not alone. We want to share our own experiences in the hope that you can learn ways to thrive as a demisexual. If you a…

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Why Are Gay Friendships So Hard? 53:46

7M ago53:46

53:46

For many gay men, friendship is complicated, performative, and sometimes downright painful. We crave genuine connection but end up navigating cliques, comparison, and quiet loneliness. In this episode, Michael and Pepper are doing an exposé on gay friendships to unpack what’s really going on beneath the surface and why so many gay friendships fall …

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The Reparenting Process 53:54

7M ago53:54

53:54

How do the unmet needs of our childhood shape who we are today? And more importantly, how do we learn to meet those needs for ourselves as adults? In this deeply personal and eye-opening episode of Gay Men Going Deeper, we explore the re-parenting process—a therapeutic model that helps us heal old wounds, develop self-compassion, and rewrite the in…

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How to Not Lose Yourself in Your Relationships 53:52

8M ago53:52

53:52

In this episode, Matt speaks with therapist and author, Tom Bruett, about how to avoid losing yourself in your relationships. By balancing connection and autonomy in our relationships, we can foster more secure relationships that allow us to maintain our sense of self while allowing our partner to do the same. If you easily lose yourself in your re…

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Why Gay Men Love Divas 44:16

8M ago44:16

44:16

From Madonna to Mariah, Beyoncé to Barbra— throughout the generations, gay men have been obsessed with divas. But why? In this episode of Gay Men Going Deeper, we’re diving into the deep connection between gay men and our beloved divas, exploring: Who are the divas and what do they have in common? Why divas resonate so deeply with gay men How these…

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The Women in Our Lives 46:02

8M ago46:02

46:02

The women in our lives have influenced us in ways we don’t always recognize, but when we take a step back, their impact is undeniable. In this heartfelt episode, we’re celebrating the uniquely beautiful relationships gay men have with women—from mothers and grandmothers to besties, sisters, and beyond. We’re showing love to all the women who have s…

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People Pleasing, Boundaries, and Fear of Conflict 52:47

8M ago52:47

52:47

Do you find yourself putting other people’s needs ahead of your own? Struggle to set boundaries? Feel responsible for keeping the peace even when it costs you your authenticity? In this episode, gay therapist Michael Pezzullo joins Michael to go deeper into the roots of people pleasing—especially why so many gay men fall into this pattern. We’ll ex…

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The Power of No 44:53

8M ago44:53

44:53

Many gay men struggle with saying no, setting boundaries, or engaging in difficult conversations due to deep-seated people-pleasing tendencies and fear of conflict. But staying silent often leads to resentment, burnout, or feeling disconnected from your true self. As recovering people-pleasers themselves, Matt and Michael have plenty to share about…

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Eroticizing Shame - Turning Pain Into Pleasure 53:51

9M ago53:51

53:51

In this episode, Matt speaks with Psychotherapist, Merle Yost, about how shame may influence sexual desire and arousal by eroticizing shame as a way of coping with it. Merle shares his story about being sexually molested by his father and the impact this had on his sexual development. Join us for this interesting topic that is often not talked abou…

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Becoming a Strong Communicator 59:58

9M ago59:58

59:58

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?…

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DIY Sex Education for Gay Men 47:24

9M ago47:24

47:24

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…

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Level Up Your Dating Profile 54:28

9M ago54:28

54:28

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 ma…

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Why Can’t I Stay Hard? Diving into the Psychology of Erectile Dysfunction 1:00:59

10M ago1:00:59

1:00:59

In this episode, Matt speaks with men’s coach Shay Doran about the psychology and mindset of erectile dysfunction. Did you know that some research indicates that gay men experience a higher rate of erection problems compared to straight men? This episode unpacks the reasons gay men experience erection problems and how to overcome them. If you strug…

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Addiction to Hook-up and Dating Apps 54:31

10M ago54:31

54:31

Join us as we take a deep dive into the impact of dating apps on both our personal lives and the gay community at large. We get candid about how these apps have shaped our experience of dating and relating with other guys. From mindless swiping and ghosting to feeling used and disconnected, we explore the darker side of app culture while offering p…

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Empowered Bottoms 47:04

10M ago47:04

47:04

Bottoming is more than just a position. It’s time to flip the script on the old, tired narrative that bottoms are the passive or submissive partners. In this episode we’re celebrating all things bottom and introducing the concept of the Empowered Bottom—someone who owns their pleasure, sets boundaries, and takes charge of the experience, whether th…

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Is Monogamy Dead? 45:52

10M ago45:52

45:52

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the dynamics of monogamy in gay relationships. From unpacking the myths and stigmas surrounding monogamy to exploring the concept of devotion and intimacy, we’re challenging assumptions and offer fresh perspectives. Some of the things we discuss: The benefits of monogamy and why some gay couples choose it. …

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Why Gay Men Struggle in Romantic Relationships 59:04

11M ago59:04

59:04

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 …

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Friends with Intimacy 55:48

11M ago55:48

55:48

What happens when friendship and intimacy collide? In this episode of Gay Men Going Deeper, we’re exploring the nuanced dynamics of friends with benefits (FWB) and friends with intimacy (FWI). But what happens when emotions sneak in, boundaries blur, or feelings start to change? We’ll discuss: Defining FWB vs. FWI: What they mean, how they’re diffe…