activism

Are LGBTQ Rights Under Attack?

Are LGBTQ Rights Under Attack?

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 LGBTQ+ resistance for over five decades. From the bathhouse raids to the fight for AIDS treatment and beyond, Tim brings deep historical context and lived experience to the conversation.  Together, they explore what activism looks like in 2025, whether we’ve grown too comfortable, how activism has changed over the decades, and most importantly, what we need to do to show up and fight for our future. Today’s Guest: Tim McCaskell Today’s Host: Michael DiIorio Support the Show – viewer and listener support helps us to continue making episodes – CONNECT WITH US – – LEARN WITH US –

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Has Pride Lost Its Meaning?

Has Pride Lost Its Meaning?

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 what’s been gained, what’s been lost, and what still needs to be reclaimed. Some topics we explore: Whether you love Pride, feel disconnected from it, or land somewhere in between, this episode is an invitation to reflect, reimagine, and reconnect with what Pride means to you in 2025. Today’s Hosts: Support the Show – viewer and listener support helps us to continue making episodes – CONNECT WITH US – – LEARN WITH US –

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Bathhouses and Cruising

Long before the days of Grindr and the internet, the gay scene was largely underground. Gay and bi men had to find creative ways to connect in discreet, yet relatively safe spaces.   For many, the locals baths – or bathhouses- were a sanctuary where you could be yourself and meet other guys who were interested in both sexual and friendly connection. Meanwhile, cruising spots were known public spaces where men met for casual encounters.  Yet for decades, the baths were routinely raided and became a battleground for the fight for queer rights and the gay liberation movement.  In today’s episode of #GayMenGoingDeeper, Michael is talking with long-time writer, activist, and educator Tim McCaskell about bathhouses and cruising. Together they’ll share personal stories while exploring topics such as: Whether you enjoy the bathhouse scene or not, this episode will shed light on the sociological and historical significance of these queer spaces from the perspective of two men of two different generations.  Today’s Guest Tim McCaskell is a long-time writer, activist and educator. In addition to being a collective member of The Body Politic from 1974 to 1986, he was a leader in the fight back against police raids on the gay baths in the 80s. He was also a member of AIDS ACTION NOW! where he fought for funding for AIDS treatment and medication. He has published two books: “Queer Progress” and “Race to Equity“. Today’s Host Michael DiIorio is a certified life and wellness coach specializing in self-confidence, sexuality, and relationships. You can find Michael at www.wellismo.com and at in the Sexual Empowerment Group. You can also follow him on Instagram @wellismo_coach. Read: 10 Tips for Making the Most of Your Bathhouse Experience Today’s episode is sponsored by The Silva Ultramind System Take the Attachment Style Quiz! Watch this ep on YouTube – Connect with us – Join the private Facebook community Take our “Building Better Relationships” course Take our “Healing Your Shame” course Instagram GayMenGoingDeeper.com Patreon

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