How To Deal With Haters (Without Getting Defensive)

We’ve all dealt with them. And maybe we’ve probably been one too… In this episode, we unpack what’s really going on beneath hate. Not just online trolls or obvious critics, but the subtle ways judgment, resentment, and animosity show up in everyday life. We explore: Why people hate in the first place (and why it’s rarely about you) The difference between healthy disagreement and actual hate How hate often masks insecurity, unmet expectations, or avoidance What it actually costs you to be a hater And how to deal with haters without shrinking, proving, or losing yourself This isn’t about pretending to be positive or “above it.” It’s about understanding psychology so you don’t get pulled into it, or unconsciously become part of it. ️ Connection Circle: Your Coming Out Process If this episode resonates, join Matt for a live Connection Circle. This is an opportunity to share your story, be witnessed without judgment, and begin releasing the parts of you that learned it wasn’t safe to be fully authentic. You don’t have to carry it alone anymore. Today's Hosts: Matt Landsiedel Michael DiIorio - Take the 360° Self-Review for Gay Men Support the Show - viewer and listener support helps us to continue making episodes - CONNECT WITH US - Watch podcast episodes on YouTube Join the Gay Men's Brotherhood Facebook community Get on our email list to get access to our monthly Zoom calls Follow us on Instagram | TikTok Learn more about our community at GayMenGoingDeeper.com - LEARN WITH US - Building Better Relationships online course: Learn how to nurture more meaningful and authentic connections with yourself and others. Healing Your Shame online course: Begin the journey toward greater confidence and self-worth by learning how to recognize and deal with toxic shame. Chapters (00:00:00) - Gaiman Going Deeper: How To Deal With Haters(00:01:34) - Michael Jackson on Why People Hate Him(00:04:55) - How to Stop Criticizing Others(00:05:35) - Haters Need to Be Seen In Their Pain(00:09:00) - How to Disagree With a Hater(00:14:00) - "Disengagement Is a Powerful Tool"(00:15:51) - Michael on The Impact Of Hate On His Life(00:20:45) - The Influences of Social Media(00:21:12) - How to Handle Haters(00:21:43) - How To Stop Defensiveness(00:25:55) - Let the Haters Be Wrong(00:29:58) - Dropping Love For The Brothers(00:31:05) - A Connection Circle