EP. 478 The Leading Man: Mike Bless aka Michael Anthony on Healing, Dating, and "The Gift"

February looks a little different this year… because we are letting men take the mic.To kick off our February Men’s Series, we are joined by actor, producer, veteran and content creator Mike Bless aka Michael Anthony. This conversation dives deep into dating, emotional healing, masculinity and the realities of modern relationships from a male perspective.We talk about how men process heartbreak, the role of honesty in dating, why communication looks different for men, and the idea that many men heal quietly instead of publicly. Mike opens up about accountability, emotional vulnerability, dating expectations and the importance of being honest about intentions early.Of course, we also get into power dynamics in relationships, monogamy vs honesty, the Atlanta dating scene, men wearing purses (yes, we went there), and why giving space in early dating might actually be healthy.This episode kicks off a full month of real conversations with men about love, growth, healing and relationships — and we are listening.Cocktail of the Week: The Leading ManIngredients2 oz bourbon 1 oz blood orange juice ½ oz simple or honey syrup 2 dashes Angostura bitters Orange peel garnishInstructionsAdd bourbon, blood orange juice, syrup and bitters to a mixing glass with ice.Stir for about 20–25 seconds until well chilled.Strain over a large ice cube in a rocks glass.Express the oils from an orange peel over the drink and drop it in.Sip, stare dramatically into the distance, and pretend you’re the main character.🥃🍊SPONSORED OFFERS FOR OUR LISTENERSFor all promo codes and links for promotions in the episode and other current offers, follow this link: https://linktr.ee/cocktalesadsERIKALUSTCheck out ERIKALUST and use our promo code COCKTALES for 45% off!http://erikalust.com/SOAKING WET FROM VBHEALTHVisit soakingwet.com and use code COCKTALES for 10% off! Contact Us!Advice: [email protected]: [email protected] Sex: [email protected] Sponsorship: [email protected] Request/ General Inquiries [email protected] Your Merch & Order Your Card GamePurchase Merch And Card Game at www.imcurioustoknow.comGet Klassy Baste! Learn to Cook with Kiki www.klassybaste.comJoin Kiki's  Book Club www.patreon.com/kikisaidsoTravel With Medinah! https://linktr.ee/MedinahMonroeInterested in sponsoring? Contact [email protected] today!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cocktales-dirty-discussions--2818687/support.CONNECT WITH USFollow the hosts and join the conversation after the episode:Kiki Said So (Kiara Walker)Instagram: @kikisaidsoTikTok: @kikisaidsoMedinah MonroeInstagram: @coffeebeandeanTikTok: @medinahmonroeCockTales: Dirty Discussions PodcastInstagram:@cocktalespodcastTikTok: @cocktalespodcastWant to be a guest on CockTales: Dirty Discussions?We are always looking for interesting guests, experts, and storytellers to join the show. If you would like to be considered, please fill out our guest submission form here:Guest Interest Form