The Circle: The Queer Men's Embodiment Podcast

We often think of trauma as a single, defining event. But what if the real wound wasn’t one moment—it was a pattern? A long stretch of not feeling safe, loved, or even seen?In this episode, we sit down with John Young, a psychotherapist who specializes in Complex Trauma and Dissociative Identity Disorder. He’s also the founder of the Complex Trauma Initiative, which helps survivors access the care they need—care that’s often hard to find, and even harder to afford.Together, we explore:The difference between trauma and complex traumaWhy so many people live with its effects without ever realizing itWhat happens when standard therapy does more harm than goodAnd how to begin the slow, relational work of healing with the right kind of support.This one goes deep. Because when we understand the roots of our pain, we can begin to rewire how we relate—to ourselves, to others, and to the world.

Craving connection is human. But when that craving turns compulsive, it can quietly shape how we show up in sex, love, and intimacy. In this episode, Tangle joins us to share his story—of navigating depression, seeking spiritual healing, and finding recovery in a sex and love-focused 12-step program. We talk about honesty, service, attention, and what it means to build intimacy that actually nourishes.

Desire changes. And in long-term relationships, that shift can feel confusing or even shameful. In this episode, queer mindset coach and somatic practitioner Nathan Serrato joins us to explore why desire fades, how resentment often blocks intimacy, and what it takes to reconnect with ourselves and our partners over time.

What does it mean to truly sound like yourself? In this episode of The Circle, we’re joined by baritone and voice instructor Colin Levin—who has performed over 50 operatic roles—to explore how voice connects to breath, gender identity, and the stories we carry about how we should sound. We unpack gender-affirming voice work, vocal embodiment, and the healing journey of uncovering your authentic voice—whether you’re singing, speaking, or simply learning to be heard.

It’s our first birthday! In this anniversary episode, Eric and Tim look back on 58 conversations about men’s work, embodiment, and personal growth—told through a queer lens and grounded in community. We share surprising messages from listeners who felt less alone, and reflect on moments that changed us: Jonathan Scott’s “diamonds in the surf” tribute to queer lineage; Chef Ava’s practice of “scanning the room with love”; Hannah O’Rourke’s clarity on asexuality and sourcing confidence from within; and Gregory Ganymedes on projection—the pedestal and the villain, both born in us.We talk about nerves, training wheels, and what practice makes possible; moving from Provincetown to Denver; launching MyEmbodiment.com to bring live breathwork, meditation, and yoga to anyone, anywhere; and the relationships that made this show real—special gratitude to producer Chad Rossi and the Provincetown Recording Studio.If this conversation serves you, share it with someone you love. Leave a rating or review to help more folks find The Circle. And if you’re ready to go deeper, join us for live practices and community at MyEmbodiment.com. Our container is open, but not broken.Chapters00:00 Celebrating One Year of the Circle Podcast01:33 Reflections on Growth and Challenges03:26 Surprising Listener Connections05:28 The Importance of Community07:29 Personal Growth Through Podcasting09:04 Impactful Conversations and Highlights13:40 Navigating Change and Fear15:52 Self-Validation and Inner Confidence18:19 Understanding Projection and Its Impact18:49 Awareness and Projection in Relationships19:42 Exploring Energetic Perspectives on Health20:39 The Impact of Men's Work on Personal Growth22:49 Connecting Through Shared Experiences25:38 The Importance of Community in Healing27:58 Universal Themes in Personal Development29:50 Celebrating Relationships and Support Systems33:55 Looking Ahead: Growth and New Opportunities

Many of us grew up absorbing quiet messages about who we’re allowed to be. Even after coming out, those messages can live on — shaping how we love, express, and even how we see ourselves.In this episode, we’re joined by therapist, author, and speaker Chris Tompkins (Raising LGBTQ Allies) for a conversation about internalized homophobia: how early shame becomes part of our identity, and how to begin unlearning it.We explore:The difference between what’s said — and what’s left unsaid — in childhoodHow internalized shame shows up in relationships, sex, and self-imageThe role of the body and nervous system in healing old beliefsWhy “safe play” and conscious exploration are essential in reclaiming joyHow affirming environments can interrupt cycles of silence and neglectThis episode is a reminder that there’s nothing wrong with you — and that healing begins the moment you start to believe that. 🌐 Join The Circle community → www.myembodiment.com

The Warrior archetype is one of the most iconic—and misunderstood—expressions of masculine energy. It’s the part of us that acts with courage, protects what’s sacred, and stays disciplined in pursuit of something greater than ourselves. But when disconnected from heart and purpose, the Warrior can turn destructive—hurting others or collapsing into self-erasure.In this episode of The Circle, Eric and Tim are joined by MJ Oshin—a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and active paramedic—to explore what it means to embody the Warrior with integrity. Together they unpack:The difference between strength and dominationThe shadow forms of the Warrior: Sadist and MasochistHow rhythm, movement, and discipline refine the Warrior’s energyWhat it takes to rebuild trust in healthy, heart-centered power—especially for queer menThis is a conversation about courage, purpose, and the art of taking right action.

In the final episode of our three-part Q&A series, we explore the often-overlooked topic of men’s intuition—what it is, how it works, and why it matters.Tim challenges the idea that intuition is gendered, reframing it as a universal human capacity rooted in embodied awareness. Together, we unpack how cultural conditioning teaches men to distrust their feelings, how gaslighting severs us from our body’s wisdom, and how embodiment practices help us rebuild that connection.Eric asks how “trusting your gut” actually functions in daily life, and Tim shares how sensations in the body—tightness in the chest, warmth in the gut, openness in the heart—can become reliable signals of intuitive knowing. The conversation closes with an invitation to practice: to notice, to feel, and to trust the subtle intelligence within.Short, honest, and grounded in lived experience, this episode invites you to see intuition not as magic—but as the language of the body learning to speak again.

This week on The Circle, we go all in on the Magician archetype through a queer lens with guest Stan Rain, founder of the Naked Dojo. Together we explore the Magician’s gifts of creativity, imagination, and transformation—and the shadow expressions of the manipulator and the innocent one—through real stories and Internal Family Systems. We also step into modern wizardry with Stan’s AI co-facilitator, TONI, and ask what it means to use powerful tools in service of intention rather than manipulation. This episode blends archetypal psychology, embodiment practice, consent-minded facilitation, and conscious technology to help you bring more clarity, play, and power to your Magician in daily life.Chapter Markers00:00 — Welcome and Intro to the Magician Archetype 02:00 — Meet Stan Rain 04:05 — Four archetypes overview and why they matter 07:18 — Painter’s palette metaphor for choice and balance 09:22 — Who is the Magician: creativity, imagination, manifesting 12:40 — Play as a practice: Lego blocks and adult tinkering 16:10 — Curiosity and experimentation in movement and art 18:45 — Shadow states: manipulator and innocent one 22:28 — Safety, queerness, and why shadow shows up 25:36 — IFS parts and relating to shadow without shame 28:30 — Using shadow skillfully and the Star Wars analogy 31:05 — Hypnotherapy as conscious influence and intention 34:02 — Awareness, intention, and skillful use of power 36:45 — Enter TONI: AI co-facilitator in a breathwork container 40:00 — How TONI runs timing, music, and context 42:30 — Boundaries: what AI should not say in a healing space 45:18 — Mirror effect of AI and why intention is everything 48:00 — Emptiness, projection, and staying grounded in purpose 50:35 — Practical takeaways: questions to invite your Magician 53:10 — Human creativity at the core, tech as a tool 56:05 — First steps for listeners new to archetypes 58:20 — Closing ritual and gratitude

In part two of our three part Q&A series, we turn to two of the biggest questions our listeners ask: what does it mean to be a man? And what do we mean when we say queer men?Tim shares how his definition of manhood has evolved from fear and rigidity to a more expansive, skillful, and authentic engagement with life. Together, we explore how gender expectations shape our experience, how queerness challenges cultural norms, and how men's work can offer a place to wrestle with these questions in community.Eric asks what it means to belong in a men's circle and how queer men bring unique gifts like fluidity between energies, expanded empathy, and a broader sense of masculinity to these spaces. Along the way, we remind ourselves that ideas of manhood are not fixed: they change across cultures, across history, and across our own lifetimes.Short, sharp, and from lived experience, this episode unpacks the evolving conversation about what it means to be a man and why queer perspectives matter in men's work.Chapter Markers0:00 – Welcome & Episode Framing Eric introduces part two of the Q&A series, focusing on what it means to be a man and what we mean by queer men.1:10 – Defining Manhood Tim reflects on how his understanding of being a man has evolved through men's work, healing, and lived experience.4:25 – Who Belongs in Men's Circles? Expanding inclusion: identity, nonbinary men, and working with the masculine aspects of self.7:05 – What Does Queer Mean? Tim shares why he embraces the word queer and how queer men experience masculinity differently than straight men.10:20 – Unique Gifts of Queer Men in Men's Work Queer men’s fluidity between energies, empathy, and expanded perspectives on relationships and masculinity.12:50 – Manhood Through Time & Culture Tim and Eric reflect on how cultural ideals of men shift over history and why authenticity matters more than rigidity.14:00 – Closing & Invitation Eric invites listeners to continue the conversation and join practices at myembodiment.com.

What does it mean to truly nourish someone—body and soul? Chef Ava Malazian joins us to explore cooking as a sacred practice, where structure creates safety and play brings the meal to life. We talk about scanning the room with love (not fear), setting intentions for others and for ourselves, and how mastery lets the right-brain “dance” in the kitchen.From reiki-through-hands to grocery-store scavenger hunts, Ava shows how food becomes “the perfume of the elixir” that keeps working long after the plates are cleared. We also get practical: build strength to support your craft, choose the feeling you want now, and bring reciprocity to every act of service. Come hungry—leave resourced.Chapter Markers00:00 – Welcome & Why Nourishment Matters in Men’s Work Eric frames the episode for queer men’s embodiment, introducing Chef Ava and the idea of nourishment as devotion within retreat containers and embodiment practices.01:02 – Meet Chef Ava: Intuitive Cooking & Sacred Kitchen Ava shares her process as a retreat chef—setting intention, scanning the field with love, and turning the kitchen into a somatic, sacred space for healing and community.05:30 – Container Work: Masculine Structure, No-Leak Energy Tim and Ava define “leaky energy,” how to hold a clear container, and why grounded masculine structure enables safety, presence, and deeper embodiment work.10:40 – Reciprocity & Flow: The Right-Brain Dance of Cooking From “the perfume of the elixir” to color-rich plates, Ava describes intuitive cooking as art you can eat—an embodied practice that continues to nourish after the meal.18:30 – From Resistance to Wonder: Yin/Yang in Daily Practice How masculine/feminine energy (yin/yang) translates beyond gender; shifting from resistance to curiosity to access presence, creativity, and somatic regulation.24:30 – Divine Feminine & the Fertile Dark Ava explores goddess energy (Annapurna), the creative “dark” as fertile ground, and how honoring the feminine essence elevates nourishment and men’s embodiment work.29:20 – Motherhood, Oxytocin & Many-Body Nourishment Food as medicine across the physical, emotional, and subtle bodies; the science–spirit bridge (oxytocin) and how love-infused meals build trust in retreat containers.34:30 – Practical Tools: Intention, Reiki Hands, Chant & Media Hygiene Actionable practices—heart tapping, reiki-through-hands, mantra/chant, and mindful consumption—to bring sacred attention to everyday cooking and self-care.38:50 – Strength for Your Craft: “Huggers,” Training & Consistency Embodied strength as capacity (not aesthetics): why training, posture, and consistency build self-trust men can feel—on the mat, in the gym, and in the kitchen.46:30 – Blessing & Close: Scan with Love, Serve with Heart Gratitude for community (Embodied Masculine retreats), Chef Ava’s closing blessing, and an invitation to keep practicing presence, reciprocity, and nourishment.

This is part one of our three-part Q&A series, where we answer the questions you’ve been sending since we launched The Circle.We start with the big one: what is embodiment, and why does it matter in men’s work?Tim unpacks embodiment as the practice of listening to the body’s wisdom—our inner dashboard of sensations, emotions, and signals. Eric connects the dots to mindfulness and asks how embodiment helps us meet life with more choice and clarity. Together, we explore how ignoring our body’s signals leads to collapse, reactivity, or numbing, while embodiment practices—like yoga, breathwork, and challenging postures—help us build skillful responses instead.Short, sharp, and from lived experience—this is your entry point into understanding embodiment and why it’s foundational for men’s work.Chapter Markers0:00 – Welcome & Series Intro Eric frames the Q&A series and introduces the first question: what is embodiment and why does it matter in men’s work?1:45 – Defining Embodiment Tim explains embodiment as the practice of listening to the body’s wisdom and signals.4:10 – Embodiment vs. Mindfulness Eric asks how embodiment compares to mindfulness and meditation; Tim uses the “car dashboard” analogy.7:00 – Signs of Disembodiment Exploring what happens when we ignore feelings—overeating, drinking, depression, collapse, or reactivity.10:15 – Starting an Embodiment Practice Practical entry points: yoga, posture work, curiosity about sensations. Eric closes with recap and invitation to myembodiment.com.

Queer therapist Tom Bruett joins us to explore what it means to move from connection that’s just physical to intimacy that’s truly embodied. We unpack how early messages around fear, secrecy, and performance shape desire, and what becomes possible when we bring awareness back into the body. Together we get practical: the “thumb out” signal for pausing when you’re overwhelmed, Dan Siegel’s hand model of the brain, the window of tolerance, and simple brain-stem tools like breath and sensation to come back online. We talk consent using Betty Martin’s Wheel, sensate focus as a no-pressure practice, and why owning your own pleasure can reduce shame and resentment. Eric shares on sober intimacy and using kink/BDSM as a bridge to presence; Tim translates models into day-to-day micro-practices you can try over dishes, on a walk, or in moments of closeness. We also name app fatigue, hypersexualized spaces, and how to de-emphasize the finish line without losing the fun.Chapter Markers00:00 – Welcome & Introductions: Eric sets the stage, introduces Tom Bruett and his work at the Queer Relationship Institute.03:20 – Queer Men, Bodies, and Hypermasculinity: How early messages about masculinity and secrecy shape our relationship with embodiment.08:45 – Differentiation & Authentic Expression: Tom explains how attachment, differentiation, and experimentation help queer men reconnect with themselves.14:30 – Adolescence Delayed: Emotional, Sexual, Spiritual: Exploring the unique timing of queer men’s adolescence and what that means for intimacy.18:55 – Physical vs. Embodied Connection: Tim and Tom define embodied intimacy, contrasting it with purely physical encounters.23:15 – Sober Intimacy & BDSM as a Bridge: Eric shares his transition into sobriety and how kink created space for embodied connection.28:40 – Desire Differences & Myths in Gay Culture: Unpacking desire discrepancy, app fatigue, and the hypersexualized pressures queer men face.34:20 – First Steps into Embodiment: Practical entry points: body scans, breathwork, yoga, dance, and sensate focus exercises.40:05 – The Nervous System & Dan Siegel’s Hand Model: Understanding hyperarousal, hypoarousal, and tools to return to regulation.45:00 – Consent, Communication & the “Thumb Out” Signal: Introducing Betty Martin’s Wheel of Consent, shorthand for pausing, and reframing performance pressure.49:20 – De-Emphasizing the Finish Line: How to shift focus away from orgasm as the marker of success and expand intimacy through experimentation.52:00 – Closing Reflections: Tom, Tim, and Eric share final takeaways on vulnerability, practice, and ongoing exploration.53:08 – Closing Ritual: Tim leads the gratitude and release, “container open but not broken.”

Why is it that sometimes, even when care is offered freely, it doesn’t land? In this episode of The Circle, Eric and Tim unpack the messy, beautiful complexity of giving and receiving care.From family dynamics and love languages to roommates, ex-husbands, and Provincetown coffee shop connections, they explore why care often misses the mark—and what we can do to better recognize and receive it. They share personal stories of frustration, vulnerability, and breakthrough, reminding us that effort, transparency, and trust go a long way.This is an invitation to practice revealing what you need, honoring how others show care, and making sure the people you love actually feel it. Because if tomorrow never comes, will they know how much you cared?Chapter Markers00:00 – Welcome & Introduction: Why care is such a tender and complicated subject02:45 – When Care Doesn’t Land: Eric’s family Christmas story06:30 – Care Requires Vulnerability: Tim on courage and the glamorization of “not caring”11:00 – “It’s Just a Yoga Class”: When dismissal misses the mark15:25 – Different Languages of Care: Roommates, partners, and communication gaps21:10 – Effort vs. Perfection: Why trying matters more than getting it right26:05 – Love Letters to Friends: Tim’s reflections on Gordon and the power of reassurance32:40 – Accepting Care as It’s Given: Shifting perspective with empathy and trust37:00 – Closing Reflections & Sow: Care as ongoing practice and communicationLearn more, ask questions and practice along with us at www.myembodiment.com

In this episode of The Circle, we explore asexuality and the many ways intimacy can thrive outside of sexual expression. Eric and Tim are joined by Hannah O’Rourke—a yoga teacher and early childhood educator—who shares her experience identifying as asexual and how it reshaped her understanding of romance, validation, and connection. Together, they unpack the difference between romantic and sexual orientation, what it means to be demisexual, and how embodiment practices can help people attune to their true desires. This conversation challenges cultural assumptions about sex and identity, and offers a liberating lens for queer folks navigating their own intimate lives.Chapter Markers/Time Stamps00:00 What If Sex Isn’t the Center of Intimacy? 00:24 What Is Asexuality? A Conversation with Hannah O’Rourke 01:06 Discovering Asexual Identity: Hannah’s Story 02:28 Romantic vs. Sexual Attraction Explained 05:23 How Asexual People Navigate Relationships 15:03 The Asexuality Spectrum: Demisexual, Graysexual & More 28:10 Redefining Intimacy: Love and Connection Beyond Sex 29:38 The Opposite of Sex? Rethinking Intimacy Through Film 32:17 Being Asexual in Queer Spaces 35:43 Self-Love Without Sexual Validation 41:02 Debunking Asexual Myths and Misconceptions 50:58 Healing the Inner Child Through Self-Understanding 55:49 Final Reflections on Identity and Intimacy

In this episode of The Circle, we explore forgiveness not as a final destination, but as a living, breathing process. From unspoken resentments to painful memories of being let down, Eric and Tim share personal stories about parental wounds and what it means to carry the weight of hurt for years.This conversation unpacks:Why forgiveness isn’t the same as forgettingHow resentment impacts our nervous systems and relationshipsThe role of safety, grief, and compassion in the forgiveness processWhat it looks like to forgive without needing the other person to changeIf you’ve ever struggled to let go of a grudge, or felt the pressure to "just move on," this one’s for you. What’s one weight you’ve been carrying that might be ready to soften?Practice with us and explore embodiment tools for relational repair: 👉 https://myembodiment.comChapter Markers / Time Stamps:00:00 - Intro: Forgiveness as a Practice01:00 - What Forgiveness Really Means03:05 - Forgiveness ≠ Forgetting06:42 - The Weight We Carry: Resentment and Memory08:58 - Not Letting Go, but Lightening the Load11:31 - When Forgiveness Isn’t Closure13:30 - Parental Wounds and Resentment15:50 - Reframing the Past: Seeing with Softer Eyes18:10 - Tim’s Story: Turning Mom into Wonder Woman20:42 - The Cost of Idealization and the Gift of Reality24:30 - Bragging as a Search for Safety27:25 - From Villainizing to Understanding30:01 - Big Hurt, No Villain: How Forgiveness Actually Starts33:40 - Beliefs that Block Forgiveness36:15 - The Band Camp Story: When They Didn’t Show Up

In this episode of The Circle, Eric and Tim are joined by Tim Neal, a men’s transformation coach and embodiment facilitator, to explore the power of parts work. Drawing from Internal Family Systems (IFS) and shadow work, Tim explains how the voices inside us, like the inner critic or perfectionist, are not problems to fix, but parts to understand, honor, and integrate.Through personal storytelling, emotional insights, and a live parts work practice, the conversation reveals how embracing these inner parts can lead to emotional intelligence, self-trust, and what Tim calls the “centered self.” Whether you’re new to IFS or deep in your healing work, this episode will shift how you relate to your inner world.You’ll learn:What parts work is and how it relates to shadow workThe difference between exile parts and protector partsWhy trying to eliminate parts of yourself doesn’t workHow emotional awareness is the foundation of growthHow to meet your parts with compassion and curiosityChapter Markers / Time Stamps:0:00 – Intro to the episode and Tim Neal2:15 – What is parts work? Tim’s childhood story of emotional shutdown6:50 – Origins of Internal Family Systems (IFS) and blending with shadow work9:30 – Shadow work as a subset of parts work12:00 – Tim’s inner critic origin story and the rise of the achiever part15:20 – The Tony Robbins experience as a pattern interrupt18:10 – Masculinity, vulnerability, and redefining strength20:40 – The pressure to be one thing vs. embracing many parts24:00 – Mono-mind vs. multi-mind: the freedom of “a part of me”27:30 – Introducing the capital-S Self / Centered Self29:50 – Pattern interrupts, neural pathways, and belief shifts34:00 – Manager parts, exiles, and protectors explained38:00 – The fruit salad metaphor: integration, not elimination41:00 – What is the Centered Self? The goal of living from calm, clarity, and compassion43:30 – Why we can’t “cut off” our inner parts (like a sprained ankle)46:20 – The role of emotional intelligence in working with parts48:00 – Live guided practice: meeting your inner part with compassion52:15 – Eric meets his inner critic, Tim meets his inner director54:30 – What our parts are really afraid of—and how they’re trying to help56:00 – Closing reflections: parts work as a path toward self-compassionStay Connected with The CircleInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/queermensembodiment/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDCAp8OFjLrGaAwycfGmydgWebsite & Community: www.MyEmbodiment.com

What’s the difference between truly belonging and just fitting in? In this raw and resonant episode of The Circle, Eric and Tim unpack the subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways we abandon ourselves in order to be accepted—and what it takes to stop. They explore how social conditioning, internalized fear, and curated identities shape our choices around how we show up in community, especially in queer spaces.Eric shares his personal experience of feeling isolated during Bear Week in Provincetown, while Tim opens up about the cost of being too playful, too much, or too real. Together, they discuss the relationship between control, safety, and self-trust—and how embodiment practices, affirmation, and conscious spaces can help us come home to ourselves.This is a must-listen for anyone navigating identity, authenticity, or the messy middle between self-protection and self-expression.Timestamps:00:00–04:20 — Intro: The difference between belonging and fitting in04:21–14:10 — Tim’s fashion story: authenticity vs. curation14:11–20:50 — Expertise vs. people-pleasing, and the role of intention20:51–27:45 — The hidden cost of hiding parts of ourselves27:46–36:10 — Embodied loneliness: fitting in but still feeling alone36:11–44:30 — Tim’s story: playfulness, performance, and the pain of not being seen44:31–52:40 — The illusion of belonging on Instagram; the craving for connection52:41–59:00 — Embodiment and nervous system tools to anchor authenticity59:01–1:05:10 — Safe spaces vs. performative ones: building real community1:05:11–1:13:30 — Inner belonging, affirmations, and the challenge of loving all parts1:13:31–1:22:00 — The need for community, checking in, and not feeling like a burden1:22:01–End — Wrap-up: Sass, solitude, and the sacred work of showing upStay Connected with The CircleInstagram: @queermensembodimentYouTube: Queer Men’s EmbodimentWebsite & Community: www.MyEmbodiment.com

What if rest was the most dominant thing you could do?In this episode of the Circle, trauma-informed BDSM educator, licensed life coach, and former Dominatrix Ms. Elle X joins us to explore the hidden cost of leadership—and why so many men, Dominants, and space-holders burn out before they ever give themselves permission to stop. We talk about the shame that makes rest feel dangerous, how insecurity fuels overwork, and why true power comes from knowing when to say “no.” Ms. Elle reframes rest as radical self-advocacy, drawing a bold parallel between consent and rest: you can’t authentically say yes if you’re unwilling to say no.Whether you lead in the bedroom, the boardroom, or at home, this episode will challenge everything you think you know about strength, power, and the courage it takes to rest.___Glossary of Terms:What is BDSM? – An acronym for Bondage, Discipline, Dominance, Submission, Sadism, and Masochism. It refers to consensual practices that explore power exchange, sensation, and psychological play. At its core, BDSM is about communication, consent, and creating safe, intentional spaces for exploring power and desire.What is a Dominant (Dom/Domme)? – The person who takes the leadership or guiding role in a BDSM dynamic. A Dominant holds space, sets structure, and creates safety, allowing the Submissive to fully let go. In healthy dynamics, the Dominant’s power is rooted in consent, responsibility, and respect.What is a Submissive (Sub)? – The person who consensually surrenders control in a BDSM dynamic. For many, this surrender can feel deeply restful, freeing them from decision-making or the pressure of constant responsibility. Submissives are not passive; their active consent, communication, and boundaries are essential to the dynamic.What is D/S? - Refers specifically to the dynamic or relationship between a Dominant and a Submissive. This can be sexual or non-sexual and is centered on consensual power exchange, clear communication, and trust.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview00:23 Exploring the Hidden Cost of Leadership01:33 The Struggle with Rest and Insecurity05:41 The Importance of Consent and Boundaries13:31 Self-Awareness and Embodiment Work21:40 The Role of Rest in BDSM24:58 Being Seen and Valued in Relationships29:06 Dominance and Submission (D/S) Dynamics32:53 The Universal Lessons of BDSM34:56 The Importance of Humility in Leadership37:50 Navigating Trust and Safety in Relationships39:58 Understanding Rejection Sensitivity43:53 Balancing Dominance and Vulnerability49:56 The Power of Rest and Boundaries59:32 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections____Connect with Us & Ms. Elle XStay Connected with The CircleInstagram: @queermensembodimentYouTube: Queer Men’s EmbodimentWebsite & Community: MyEmbodiment.comConnect with Ms. Elle XInstagram: @thewisedommeYouTube: Ms. Elle XPatreon & Discord Community: Join #ElleXArmy

Urgency doesn’t have to mean rushing. In this episode of The Circle, Eric Bomyea and Timothy Bish explore urgency and embodiment, unpacking how to move quickly with purposeful action instead of reactive rushing.Drawing from personal stories—airport chaos, bartending mishaps, and even Tim’s professional dance training—they discuss how urgency impacts the nervous system, why it often feeds perfectionism, and how to regulate it through embodiment practices.You’ll learn:The difference between rushing vs. moving with purposeHow to recognize physical signs of urgency in the bodySimple mindfulness and nervous system tools to stay grounded under pressureHow to turn urgency into an embodied spark for action rather than a source of stressPerfect for anyone navigating busy days, high-pressure moments, or exploring men’s work and embodiment practices to stay present and steady.Chapter Markers0:00 – Welcome & Introduction2:10 – Urgency as a Learned Survival Tool7:35 – The Difference Between Moving Quickly and Rushing11:50 – Physical Signs of Rushing vs. Purposeful Movement17:05 – Ayurvedic & Yogic Perspectives on Natural Pace22:40 – Airport Stories: Regulating in High-Pressure Moments30:55 – Internal vs. External Urgency: Creating It from Care & Purpose38:20 – Fitness, Perfectionism, and Rushing the Body44:10 – Urgency as a Spiritual Spark (Kirtan & Longing)50:25 – Embodiment Tools to Work with Urgency55:40 – Closing Reflections & Takeaways

What does it mean to feel free, connected, and authentic in queer spaces—without the crutch of alcohol or drugs? In this episode of The Circle, Eric and Tim are joined by Dave Becker, founder of Sober Gay Sunday, to explore queer sobriety, nightlife, and what it means to connect without substances. Dave shares his personal story—from circuit parties and addiction to building a sober community that celebrates authenticity and nervous system regulation. Together, they unpack why so many queer people seek connection through bars and substances, and how alternative spaces like sports leagues, podcasts, and sober events can offer deep belonging. Whether you're sober, sober-curious, or just navigating your place in queer community, this conversation invites reflection, honesty, and compassion.We go all in on:Why nightlife became the default way queer people connectHow sobriety opened new dimensions of joy, clarity, and nervous system awarenessWhat a more inclusive queer social landscape could look likeHow to listen to your body, set boundaries, and honor your own paceWhether you're sober, sober-curious, or just reflecting on your relationship to community and connection, this episode offers insight, honesty, and hope.Rate, review, and subscribe to The Circle to keep exploring men’s embodiment, queer healing, and personal growth.Chapter Markers:00:00 – Welcome to The Circle01:07 – Introducing Dave Becker & Sober Gay Sunday04:50 – First steps into gay nightlife and early alcohol use08:20 – When partying turns into dependence11:15 – The loop between alcohol, identity, and belonging15:35 – Queer nightlife and double lives18:55 – What are we seeking in nightlife and substances?21:50 – The “chip on the shoulder” of queer identity26:00 – The pandemic and Dave’s path to sobriety30:25 – Community support & the surprise of being celebrated sober34:05 – Advice for those navigating sobriety alone39:35 – The power of shared experience44:50 – What is a sober coach? How Dave found his50:00 – Why Dave started Sober Gay Sunday54:25 – What makes the queer sober experience unique58:40 – Social anxiety, nervous systems & knowing when to leave01:05:20 – Embodiment, boundaries & the wisdom of the body01:12:30 – Inclusive queer spaces: from bars to kickball fields01:19:15 – The structure of sport as a new kind of container01:24:00 – Sobriety as a practice, not a perfect01:27:00 – Closing reflection & breath practice with Tim

In this episode of The Circle, Eric and Tim explore how personal growth and spiritual practice can quietly slip into another form of hustle. Why do we sometimes treat healing like a to-do list? What happens when our breathwork, yoga, or journaling stops being supportive and starts becoming performative?Together, they unpack perfectionism, self-trust, and the radical permission to just be. From Tim’s morning breathwork dilemma to Eric’s meditation hall ego trip, this episode is a heartfelt, humorous, and deeply honest look at what it means to grow without losing yourself in the process.Topics include:The trap of trying to “win” at healingHow spiritual practices can become performanceThe importance of intention vs. outcomeThe power of check-ins and body-based awarenessWhy doing less might be exactly what you needWhether you’re burned out from personal development or just curious about being more present, this conversation is an invitation to soften, slow down, and stop striving.00:00 - Intro: The Hustle of Healing02:03 - Why We Strive Even in Spiritual Spaces06:20 - Eric’s “Best Meditator” Moment09:45 - The Yoga Trap: Performing vs. Practicing13:10 - External Validation in Embodiment Work18:25 - The Slippery Slope of “Not Doing Enough”22:42 - Spiritual Checklists: Help or Harm?28:00 - Choosing What’s Right for *Today*32:48 - The Fine Line Between Fixing and Growing36:10 - Doing to Be: Yoga's Eight Limbs42:12 - Intention, Not Just Action46:40 - Is This Practice Serving Me?50:55 - The Gift of Showing Up (Even When You Don’t Want To)57:12 - Internal Validation: Can It Be Enough?01:02:40 - From Broken to Better: Shifting Motivation01:07:30 - Men’s Work & the Power of Just Being01:11:58 - Check-Ins: A Simple, Radical Practice01:20:00 - Feeling Without Explaining01:25:30 - App Behavior, Loneliness & Conscious Choice01:31:15 - Being with Discomfort Without Numbing01:37:20 - Embodiment Is Not Measured in Metrics01:41:00 - Closing Reflections: Let Being Guide Your Doing

In Part 2 of our conversation with Amir Khalighi, we move from uncovering the father wound to exploring what it takes to heal it. Why are so many men with this wound quick to judge—others, themselves, and especially other men? How does hypervigilance become a way of life? And what does it take to re-father ourselves and trust again?We talk about the lone wolf archetype, how judgment protects what we’re not ready to feel, and why healing doesn’t require reconciling with your father—but it does require showing up for yourself.🎧 If you’ve ever struggled to ask for help, receive love, or trust other men… this conversation is for you.🔗 Learn more about Amir’s upcoming free workshop on Healing the Father Wound: https://embodiedmasculine.com/healing-the-father-wound/Full Episode Time Markers00:00 – Welcome back & episode setup02:05 – How to know if you carry a father wound05:45 – Hypervigilance and nervous system regulation09:50 – The lone wolf archetype and self-isolation14:15 – What we miss without a present father figure18:22 – Re-fathering yourself as an adult man22:03 – The power of safe containers in men’s work27:45 – Why judgment blocks healing33:10 – Amir’s story: somatic reconnection with his father39:20 – Healing the wound without needing reconciliation42:30 – Projecting the father wound onto other men & leaders48:00 – Tim’s story: transformation through trust53:20 – How healing shifts generational lines57:45 – Breaking the sound barrier: a metaphor for inner work1:00:40 – Presence as true power1:03:55 – How to take your rightful place in your lineage1:07:10 – Resources, workshops, and how to beginFollow along and engage with us:YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@QueerMensEmbodimentInstagram → https://www.instagram.com/queermensembodimentApple Podcasts → https://apple.co/43INn27Spotify → https://bit.ly/thecirclespotifyMerch Store → https://bit.ly/thecirclemerch1:1 Coaching with Tim Bish → https://timothybish.com/coaching/Send a Voice Note to Tim & Eric→ https://bit.ly/thecirclevoicenotes#MensWork #QueerMen #QueerHealing #TheCirclePodcast #TimBish #EricBomyea #LGBTQMen #Embodiment #FatherWound #InnerChildHealing #ShadowWork #EmotionalHealing #Reparenting #Hypervigilance #MasculinityHealing #embodiedmasculine 

In this special two part episode of The Circle, we’re joined by our mentor and teacher Amir Khalighi—founder of Embodied Masculine—for a deep conversation about the father wound, masculine lineage, and the path to healing. Together, we explore how emotional or physical absence from a father figure can shape a man’s identity, disrupt his relationship with power, and perpetuate patterns of codependency, people-pleasing, addiction, and emotional disconnection.Amir shares his own story of growing up without a present father, how that wound became a gateway to personal transformation, and what it truly means to reclaim masculine integrity and presence. We dive into the hidden cost of being “the good son,” the generational pain men carry, and how men's work offers a path not just to healing—but to purpose, self-trust, and wholeness.Whether you're working through trust issues with men, navigating unresolved family dynamics, or seeking deeper embodiment and community, this conversation offers compassionate insight and practical encouragement. We also explore how queer men can reclaim both masculine and feminine aspects of themselves, and how every man carries a unique medicine that becomes accessible once the healing begins.Topics Covered:What is the father wound and how it impacts men’s developmentShadow archetypes: the tyrant, the weakling, and the “good boy”How generational trauma is passed through the masculine lineThe danger of solo initiations (e.g., drugs, over-responsibility, isolation)Creating safe containers for healing and emotional expressionWhy trust, forgiveness, and community are essential to men’s workHow queer men are redefining masculinity and reclaiming their powerThe difference between healing and fixing—and how healing actually begins

In this episode of The Circle Podcast, Eric and Tim go all in on the many dimensions of trust—from how we cultivate trust within ourselves to how we navigate the messy terrain of trusting others, institutions, and even the universe.With personal stories, embodiment reflections, and real-world examples from breathwork, therapy, and men’s work, they unpack why trust is so deeply linked to safety, regulation, consistency, and surrender. Whether you're rebuilding self-trust after a rupture, discerning who and what to trust externally, or learning to let go of control, this episode meets you right at the edge—offering insight, humor, and heart along the way.🔑 5 Foundational Questions from the Episode:What helps me trust myself—and what disrupts that trust?How do I know when I can trust someone else?What role does nervous system regulation play in building trust?When is control a barrier to trust and when is it a safety mechanism?Can I trust in something greater—like the universe, spirit, or intuition?⏱️ Episode Time Markers:00:00 – Intro: Why Trust is Foundational 02:13 – What Do You Trust Most? The Journal Prompt 06:08 – Trust and Self-Consistency: How We Build It 11:42 – Trust and Safety in the Body 16:26 – Rigidity vs. Flexibility in Daily Practice 20:45 – Reclaiming Trust After a “Missed” Commitment 26:30 – The Role of Felt Sense and Embodiment in Trust 33:10 – Abandoning Self to “Trust” Others: Fear & Lack 37:40 – The Pattern Before the Ping: Making Aligned Decisions 43:16 – Trusting the Universe: From Skeptic to Surrender 49:00 – Acupuncture, Energy, and the Evolution of Belief 52:32 – Magic, Language & Repetition: Spiritual Trust Building 56:20 – Breathwork and Control: Working With Internal Authority 1:00:02 – Final Reflections & One Last Breath Practice 1:01:20 – Closing Ceremony: Gratitude and Integration🔗 Follow Along and Engage With Us:YouTube → @QueerMensEmbodimentInstagram → @queermensembodimentApple Podcasts → Listen HereSpotify → Listen HereMerch Store → Shop Now1:1 Coaching with Tim Bish → timothybish.com/coachingSend a Voice Note to Tim & Eric → Ask a Question

In this episode of The Circle Podcast, we’re joined by Jonathan Scott—also known as Wild Blue Yonder and Esther the Village Mermaid—for a deeply moving conversation about queer resilience, the Radical Fairy movement, and the healing power of gathering in circle.A longtime community organizer and founder of the Victory Programs, Jonathan shares his lived experience from the height of the AIDS epidemic, when queer communities, abandoned by institutions, created sacred spaces for care, grief, breath, and belonging. From heart circles in treatment centers to radical fairy sanctuaries, he reminds us that intimacy, connection, and breath can be medicine—especially when systems fail.We explore:✨ The birth of “circles of care” during the AIDS crisis✨ What the Radical Fairy movement teaches about subject-to-subject connection✨ How breathwork and storytelling offer deep healing✨ The importance of queer spaces beyond clubs and apps✨ Intimacy without performance—and the freedom of just beingWhether you lived through the epidemic or are learning this history for the first time, this episode offers essential wisdom for queer healing, spiritual embodiment, and collective care.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:23 Meet Jonathan Scott and Esther, the Village Mermaid01:18 Circles of Care During the AIDS Epidemic04:51 The Power of Heart Circles08:33 Living Through Two Pandemics15:51 Radical Fairies and Heart Circles21:55 The Importance of Unapologetic Expression28:11 Navigating Expectations in Queer Spaces29:13 The Power of Intentional Gatherings32:52 Creating Safe and Intimate Spaces34:16 The Importance of Compassion and Connection37:22 The Role of Rituals and Ceremonies45:21 Honoring the Past and Building the Future49:16 Concluding Reflections and Gratitude🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations on men’s work, queer embodiment, and healing.#AIDSEpidemic #RadicalFairy #QueerHistory #QueerHealing #LGBTQPodcast #MensWork #Embodiment #JonathanScott #Breathwork #HeartCircle #GayMenHealing #SubjectToSubject #QueerResilience #Provincetown #TheCirclePodcast #LGBTQWellness #LGBTQHistory

Why is it so hard to simply take it in—a compliment, a gift, a moment of care, or even a deep breath? In this episode of The Circle Podcast, Eric and Tim unpack the cultural, emotional, and personal blocks that make receiving feel vulnerable, awkward, or even shameful. Whether it’s feeling unworthy of love, fearing hidden strings, or being conditioned to always give and never rest, many men—especially queer men—struggle to let themselves receive without guilt or defensiveness.Drawing from men’s work, embodiment practice, and real-life stories, they explore how receiving is not just a passive act—it’s a courageous, embodied practice. From reframing sexual dynamics and compliments to learning how to accept rest, nourishment, and reflection, this episode is a call to stop over-giving and start letting yourself be filled.Topics in this episode:Why many men equate giving with value and receiving with weaknessHow cultural scripts and shame block us from receiving love and supportWhat it means to receive without obligation, guilt, or needing to “even the score”The link between control, resistance, and the fear of vulnerabilityEmbodied practices to expand your capacity to receiveWhy rest, intimacy, and stillness matter just as much as actionPerfect for givers feeling depleted, men exploring new dynamics in queer intimacy, or anyone learning to drop the armor and take in the goodness being offered.

In this episode of The Circle, Eric and Tim sit down with Jonathan Hammond—author, spiritual teacher, and trained shamanic practitioner—to explore how earth-based spirituality and Hawaiian wisdom can help us reclaim authenticity, heal limiting beliefs, and reimagine a more connected world. From the ancient role of queer people in shamanic cultures to the modern practice of manifestation, the conversation weaves together collective consciousness, two-spirit identity, imagination, and the sacred relationship between humans and the natural world.Jonathan unpacks core teachings from his book The Shaman’s Mind, introduces two of the Seven Principles of Huna (including "The world is what you think it is" and "There are no limits"), and offers a powerful reminder that healing is a practice of choosing again—and again. Whether you're curious about spiritual practices outside of religion, seeking grounding during turbulent times, or looking to deepen your connection with your inner truth, this episode offers both inspiration and practical insight.Topics covered include:What is shamanism and how it relates to queer identityHawaiian spiritual psychology and the Seven Principles of HunaHow nature models authenticity and interconnectionThe role of imagination in spiritual practice and personal growthTwo-Spirit traditions and the sacredness of queernessWhy belief shapes reality—and how to shift yours consciouslyHow to stay centered and creative in a world that feels chaoticSpiritual leadership through example and choosing again

In this episode of The Circle Podcast, Eric and Tim explore the transformative power of imagination—not as a childhood relic, but as a radical tool for adult healing, creative expression, emotional intelligence, and personal growth. From visualizing future goals to softening interpersonal conflicts, they unpack how reconnecting with our imaginations can help queer men reclaim authorship over their lives.Drawing from their own experiences in embodiment practice and men’s work, they reflect on the role imagination plays in everything from visualization and manifestation to empathy, problem-solving, and intimacy. The episode also looks at why so many men struggle with creative visualization—and how to begin rebuilding that muscle.Whether you were told to “grow up” and abandon your inner world, or you’ve just struggled to visualize your future with clarity, this episode is a powerful invitation to reclaim imagination as a birthright and a practice.Topics include:Why imagination is essential for men’s work and embodimentThe link between imagination, manifestation, and creativityHow visualization supports emotional regulation and nervous system healthWhy queer men often struggle with imagination—and how to reclaim itThe difference between imagination, creativity, and serious playVisualization tools, archetypal work, and real-world examplesHow catastrophizing is also a form of imagination—and how to flip the script

Curious about kink—but unsure where to start? In this episode of The Circle Podcast, Eric and Tim are joined by Mr. R, a rope rigger, dominant, and BDSM educator, to explore how consent, communication, and trust form the bedrock of safe and empowering experiences in BDSM and beyond.Through real stories, thoughtful analogies, and insights from kink practice, they unpack how risk, sensation, and psychological safety are negotiated in scenes—and why clear communication is a form of radical care. From navigating power dynamics to understanding your own boundaries, this episode invites you into a world where consent isn’t a checkbox, but an ongoing dialogue.Perfect for anyone interested in deepening their communication skills, exploring the intersections of sex and emotional safety, or simply learning how to ask for what they truly want.Topics covered:How consent lives beyond a single “yes” or “noWhy trust in BDSM must go both ways—and how to build itWhat rope play teaches us about sensation, safety, and surrenderHow shame can block self-expression—and how to reclaim itBringing kink-informed communication into everyday relationshipsCreating space for curiosity, clarity, and mutual carePhoto credit for Mr. R's portrait: Roey Vilnai

Ever found yourself snapping in traffic or spiraling over something small? In this episode of The Circle Podcast, Eric and Tim unpack the deeper truth behind irritation and annoyance—and how these emotions often reveal unmet needs, unconscious beliefs, and moments where we fall out of integrity with ourselves.With personal stories, embodied insights, and practical tools, they explore how common irritants—like getting cut off in traffic or feeling disrespected—can be invitations to pause, reflect, and reclaim your power. Learn how to identify your emotional patterns, reconnect with your needs, and communicate with more clarity and compassion.Perfect for anyone navigating emotional triggers, relationship challenges, or working to become more grounded and self-aware in daily life.Topics covered:How irritation signals deeper unmet needsThe link between emotional reaction and unconscious programmingWhy men often struggle to articulate needsTools from men’s work and nonviolent communicationThe relationship between integrity, self-trust, and emotional regulationHow to transform reactions into conscious responses

Projection is a fundamental yet often unnoticed aspect of human experience. We see in others what we cannot yet recognize in ourselves, whether in moments of conflict, admiration, or even within the mysterious landscapes of our dreams.In this episode of The Circle, Eric Bomyea and Timothy Bish welcome dream worker Gregory Ganymedes to go all in on the nature of projection—how it operates in our subconscious and how it influences our waking interactions. Through an insightful conversation, they explore:Understanding Projection: How our unconscious mind externalizes unrecognized aspects of ourselves onto others, shaping our relationships and perceptions.Projection in Dreams: The role of dreams in revealing hidden truths about our inner world, and how dream analysis can uncover unresolved emotions and patterns.Everyday Projection: How projection influences communication, assumptions, and reactions in daily life, particularly in the context of men’s work and personal development.Reclaiming the Self: Tools and practices for recognizing projection as it arises and integrating these reflections for deeper self-awareness and emotional maturity.Join us as we navigate the terrain of the unconscious with Gregory Ganymedes, reframing projection from an unconscious defense mechanism into a powerful tool for self-discovery and transformation.

Anger is a powerful and often misunderstood emotion, especially among men. While society may encourage its suppression or view it negatively, anger, when acknowledged and channeled appropriately, can serve as a catalyst for personal growth and transformation.​In this episode of The Circle, hosts Eric Bomyea and Timothy Bish go all in on the complexities of anger, exploring its origins, manifestations, and potential as a force for positive change. Through an insightful conversation, they discuss:​Understanding Anger: Recognizing anger as a natural human emotion that exists on a spectrum, from mild irritation to intense rage.​Anger and Boundaries: How feelings of anger can signal boundary violations and the importance of identifying and setting personal limits.​Tools for Managing Anger: The role of men's work and embodiment practices in developing awareness of anger's early signs and strategies to process it constructively.​Transforming Anger into Action: Ways to harness the energy of anger to motivate and drive purposeful action, turning potential destruction into empowerment.​Join us as we reframe anger from a feared emotion into a valuable tool for self-awareness and empowerment, guiding men toward healthier relationships with themselves and others.

Many men grow up feeling othered—whether due to cultural differences, personal identity, or societal expectations. This sense of disconnection can shape their emotional landscape, leading to shame, isolation, and a struggle to express their true selves. But what if those experiences could be transformed into a source of clarity, strength, and purpose?In this episode of The Circle, we sit down with Alex Lehmann, Men’s Leadership Coach and host of The Heart of Man podcast, to explore the power of emotional literacy in reclaiming belonging and authenticity.Through raw and insightful conversation, we uncover:Why so many men feel othered and how it impacts their self-identityHow emotional suppression reinforces shame and disconnectionThe process of Emotional Alchemy—turning pain into powerThe role of vulnerability in building deeper relationships and true belongingPractical strategies for fostering emotional awareness and creating communityJoin us as we challenge the narratives that keep men disconnected and explore how emotional depth can transform isolation into empowerment.

In this episode of The Circle Podcast, we go all in on the often-overlooked role of joy in men’s work and embodiment practices. While grief, anger, and fear frequently dominate men’s spaces, joy remains an underdeveloped muscle—one that, when cultivated, can become a profound source of purpose and connection.Eric and Tim unpack why many men struggle to access joy, how societal conditioning stifles its expression, and why joy is just as essential as any other emotion in personal growth. They examine the embodied nature of joy—how it moves through the body, signals alignment with purpose, and serves as a powerful guidepost for transformation.Through raw and insightful conversation, we uncover:Why joy is often absent in men’s spaces—and why it needs to be reclaimedHow cultural and personal conditioning suppress joy in men’s livesThe connection between joy, presence, and deeper emotional awarenessHow embracing joy can shift relationships, purpose, and personal fulfillmentJoin us as we challenge the narratives that keep joy at a distance and explore how opening to it can create a fuller, more integrated experience of masculinity and life.

In this episode, Tim and Eric sit down with real estate entrepreneur and environmental engineer Steve Azar to explore how leading with heart can shape not just businesses, but entire communities. From high-rise developments to Provincetown’s historic Gifford House, Steve’s work is deeply rooted in impact, intention, and connection. We discuss his journey through men’s work, embodiment practices, and spiritual surrender—how listening to universal signals led him to unexpected yet powerful opportunities. Steve shares his vision for creating trustable spaces where queerness, art, and authenticity can thrive, and how leadership is less about control and more about service. Join us for a conversation about transformation, both personal and collective, and the magic that unfolds when we choose to lead with love.

Judgment is a natural human response, but how often do we pause to examine its impact on our lives? In this episode, Eric and Tim go all in on the role of judgment in men's work, exploring how it can disrupt presence and hinder personal growth. They discuss the nuances of self-judgment and the fear of being judged by others, particularly within the queer community. By sharing personal experiences and insights, they offer strategies to transform judgment from a reactive habit into a conscious tool for self-awareness and connection. Tune in to learn how embracing curiosity and compassion can reshape the way we perceive ourselves and others, turning judgment into an opportunity for deeper understanding and growth.

In a world that rewards quick reactions, what happens when we choose calmness as a form of resistance? In this episode of The Circle Podcast, we sit down with Massachusetts State Senator Julian Cyr to explore how steadiness, patience, and emotional regulation shape leadership, activism, and personal growth.Senator Cyr shares his journey from growing up in a small town on Cape Cod to becoming a leading advocate for public health, LGBTQ+ rights, and economic development. He reflects on the importance of being a mooring in turbulent waters—a steady presence that holds firm as the tides of politics, culture, and personal challenges shift around us. Instead of being pulled into reactionary cycles, how can we stay anchored in our values and purpose?Together, we go all in on:How calmness creates more effective leadership and advocacyThe importance of emotional regulation in personal and public lifeWhy reactionary culture fuels division—and how to counter itThe role of community, connection, and resilience in long-term changeIf you’ve ever struggled with staying grounded under pressure or felt the urge to react instead of respond, this episode explores how steadiness—like a well-anchored mooring—can be a powerful tool for transformation.

In this episode of The Circle Podcast, we explore the discomfort that comes with breaking free from limiting beliefs and stepping into a more empowered way of being. Transformation isn’t instant—it requires patience, discipline, and a willingness to sit with discomfort rather than avoid it.Eric and Tim unpack why growth often feels unsettling and why staying committed to the process—whether in men’s work, fitness, or mindset practices—is essential for real change. They challenge the myth of instant gratification, discuss the role of embodiment in rewiring thought patterns, and share strategies for navigating resistance when shifting long-held beliefs.Through candid conversation, they go all in on:Why discomfort is a necessary part of transformationHow limiting beliefs keep us stuck in old narrativesThe connection between physical practice and mindset shiftsWhy structure, discipline, and repetition are key to lasting changeIf you’ve ever felt frustrated with slow progress or struggled to trust the process, this episode will help you reframe discomfort as a sign of growth—not failure

In this episode of The Circle Podcast, we sit down with Soma Miller, founder of The Essential Man, to explore how unresolved wounds shape our lives and how men’s work, brotherhood, and embodiment practices help us step into maturity, integrity, and purpose.Soma shares his personal journey into men’s work, influenced by mentors like Francis Weller and Malidoma Somé, and discusses the importance of rites of passage, emotional maturity, and healing the wounds of masculinity. We dive into why many men—both queer and straight—struggle to trust other men, the role of nature and the sacred in personal transformation, and how safe, structured spaces allow men to reclaim their full selves.Through raw and insightful conversation, we uncover:The difference between the wounded boy and the conscious manWhy modern initiations are crucial for personal and relational growthHow men’s work helps break cycles of shame, fear, and isolationThe power of vulnerability and trust in building deeper connectionsJoin us as we unpack what it truly means to become a whole, embodied man—not by abandoning our wounds but by integrating them with presence, courage, and community.

In this episode of The Circle, Eric and Tim explore how men can shift from living in a world of “shoulds” and obligations to consciously choosing their actions with clarity and intention. Drawing from men’s embodiment practices, Marshall Rosenberg’s Nonviolent Communication, and mindfulness techniques, they unpack the subtle but powerful difference between “I have to” and “I choose to.”Through personal reflections and recent men’s circles, they discuss how cultural conditioning shapes our internalized expectations, the role of discomfort in decision-making, and the transformative power of pausing before acting. Can we reclaim autonomy by understanding our true motivations? Is “should” always a burden, or can it be used consciously? And how does embodiment practice help us notice the patterns in our bodies before they dictate our choices?Join the conversation as Eric and Tim challenge conventional ideas of duty and obligation, inviting men to move beyond mindless action and into deeper self-awareness and freedom.

How do queer men reclaim fitness as a space of empowerment rather than exclusion? In this episode of The Circle, we sit down with Matt Boyles, founder of Fitter Confident You, a fitness platform designed specifically for gay, bi, and trans men. Together, we explore the intersection of body image, societal expectations, and movement—unpacking the hyper-focus on aesthetics in queer spaces and how it impacts our confidence, mental health, and relationship with fitness.Matt shares his personal journey from feeling like an outsider in sports to creating a safe, inclusive fitness community that prioritizes joy, strength, and self-acceptance over competition and comparison. We dive deep into:The impact of early experiences with fitness and how they shape our adult relationship with movementHow body insecurity can lead to avoidance or addictive behaviors in queer menThe power of community and safe spaces in making fitness approachable for everyoneHow embodiment practices help men develop a more loving, intuitive connection with their bodiesWhether you’ve felt alienated by traditional fitness culture or are looking to build a healthier relationship with movement, this conversation is for you. Join us as we reimagine what fitness can look like when it’s rooted in self-compassion, inclusivity, and fun.💡 Connect with Matt Boyles and learn more about Fitter Confident You at https://fitteryou.net/📲 Follow The Circle on Instagram at @queermensembodiment🎧 Like, subscribe, and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts!

In this episode of The Circle, the Podcast for Queer Men's Embodiment, we take a deep dive into the strong man archetype—the societal expectation that men must always have the answers, never ask for help, and handle everything alone. These pressures often lead to overwhelm, isolation, and burnout, especially for queer men navigating mental, emotional, and spiritual growth.Tim and Eric explore how men’s work and embodiment practices provide essential tools for managing stress, recognizing when we’re overwhelmed, and learning to ask for support. We discuss how the false ideal of relentless self-sufficiency can keep men from experiencing deeper connection, trust, and personal expansion. Through real-life stories, including Eric’s struggles with overachieving and avoidance behaviors, we unpack the power of awareness, pacing, and community in navigating the inevitable pressures of life.If you’ve ever felt like you’re carrying too much alone or struggling to keep up with impossible expectations, this conversation is for you. Tune in to discover how queer men’s embodiment, men’s work, and conscious masculinity can help you move from burnout to balance—and why the strongest thing you can do is lean into support.🔹 Follow us on Instagram: @queermensembodiment🔹 Subscribe, rate, and review to support the conversation

In this episode of The Circle, Timothy Bish and Eric Bomyea are joined by Mackenzie, a drag entertainer, philanthropist, and artist. Mackenzie shares their journey of navigating the balance between masculine and feminine energies, using drag as a powerful tool for self-expression and transformation.Together, they explore breaking societal norms, navigating gender expression, and using drag to embody both strength and softness. The conversation unpacks how embracing polarity can deepen authenticity, creativity, and connection while challenging traditional binaries.

In this episode of The Circle, Tim and Eric go all in on the emotional complexities of gratitude, exploring how to move beyond performative expressions and embrace authentic gratitude. Through personal stories and reflections, they unpack the challenges men face in connecting with genuine feelings of gratitude—particularly when societal expectations or past experiences make it feel like an obligation.They discuss how men’s work provides a framework for practicing gratitude authentically, allowing men to navigate the tension between societal pressure and personal truth. With a focus on queer men’s spirituality and personal growth, Tim and Eric explore the transformative power of gratitude in healing, building connection, and fostering emotional resilience. If you’ve ever wondered how to authentically practice gratitude or navigate its challenges, this episode is for you.Updated Long-Tail Keywords Included:How to practice gratitude authenticallyEmotional complexities of gratitude for menGratitude challenges in queer men’s workMoving beyond performative gratitudeThe role of gratitude in men’s personal growth

In this episode of The Circle, Eric and Tim welcome Jeffrey Schaffer, a nurse and LGBTQ+ program manager, to explore how queer men can approach healthcare with confidence and authenticity. They dive into how men’s work provides tools to navigate medical spaces, unpack stigma, and advocate for oneself with courage and clarity. Discover practical advice on overcoming shame, working with fear, and finding your voice in the often-intimidating realm of sexual and overall health. With a focus on empathy, shared human experience, and empowerment, this conversation is a guide for anyone seeking better care and connection.### Disclaimer: The content discussed in this episode is for informational and conversational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. While our guest is a licensed nurse, this podcast does not serve as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health or medical conditions.

In this episode of The Circle, Tim and Eric break down the difference between fear-based, control-driven power and a more authentic, heart-centered approach to strength. They challenge the “strong man” stereotype—where force and dominance prevail—and introduce men’s work principles that help men tap into self-awareness, conscious choice-making, and genuine leadership. From acknowledging bristling egos to exploring the warrior archetype in new ways, they show how queer men’s embodiment and personal growth practices can foster resilience, vulnerability, and deeper connection. If you’re ready to step beyond old models of masculinity and embrace authentic power that builds trust, admiration, and harmony, this episode is for you. Are you ready to go all in?

In this episode of The Circle Podcast, we dive into the world of superheroes with special guest Phil Jimenez, renowned comic book artist and writer. Together, we explore how the traits that define our favorite heroes—presence, authenticity, vulnerability, and courage—are also the “superpowers” everyday men can cultivate through men’s work. Phil shares his perspective on how these qualities show up in both his creative process and personal journey, offering insights into how men can embrace their own heroic potential in daily life. Whether you’re a fan of comics, curious about men’s work, or looking to unlock your own inner superhero, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical wisdom.

In this episode of The Circle, we explore two core approaches in men’s work: masculine embodiment (clear, structured, linear steps) versus feminine embodiment (open-ended, unstructured, fluid exploration) and discover how each can expand your personal growth. Join us as we explore why perfectionism often emerges in structured, linear practices and how letting go of the “right way” through unstructured, flow-based methods can transform your mindset. We also discuss the profound impact these contrasting styles have on discipline, spontaneity, and men’s embodiment.From breath work routines that build self-discipline to freeform movement exercises that release restrictive narratives, we examine how integrating both styles fosters resilience and emotional freedom. If you’ve ever wondered how to balance accountability with creativity, or how to navigate perfectionism while staying open to possibility, this conversation is for you. Whether you’re used to strict routines or prefer intuitive exploration, discover how balancing masculine and feminine energies can deepen your men’s work journey.

In this episode of The Circle, we challenge the prevailing notion that a man’s worth is measured by what he does, rather than who he truly is. We examine the cultural pressures that drive men to define themselves by their careers, achievements, and external success markers—and how this often leads to disconnection, stress, and a loss of authentic identity.Drawing from men’s work principles and queer embodiment perspectives, we explore why accomplishments alone can’t sustain real fulfillment. Instead, we invite listeners to consider how presence, integrity, and meaningful relationships can shape a more holistic sense of self. Whether you’ve struggled with feeling “not enough” without certain titles or are simply curious about men’s work, personal growth, and authentic living, this conversation offers fresh insights and practical steps to break free from the “doing” trap.