Throughout many episodes, we’ve discussed how gay men continue to grapple with the shame they internalized as children growing up in a predominantly straight society that often invalidated or condemned their identities. This lingering shame can evolve into deep-rooted trauma, affecting their self-worth, relationships, and overall mental well-being.In this episode, we're exploring the theme of gay identity development from Dr. Alan Downs’ groundbreaking book, The Velvet Rage, and unpacking his three-stage framework for emotional well-being to live more fulfilling lives as proud gay men.Related Episodes:Listen to Episode 01. Hello, Trauma. It's Me, Rob.Listen to Episode 13. Perfectly Imperfect: Conquer Your PerfectionismListen to Episode 15. Understanding Attachment StylesListen to Episode 42. Are You Emotionally Unavailable?Listen to Episode 47. Say Goodbye to Abandonment IssuesListen to Episode 86. Turn Off Your Code-SwitchingAdditional Resources:Read The Velvet RageAuthenticity Unmasked: Navigating Mental Health for Gay MenUnderstanding and Addressing Emotional Unavailability in Gay Men: Causes, Signs, and SolutionsPerfectly Imperfect: Understanding Perfectionism and Its Impact on Gay MenNavigating Love with Attachment Styles: Building Healthier Relationships for Gay MenUnderstanding Abandonment Issues in Gay Men: Navigating Fear of Rejection and Building Healthy RelationshipsSupport the showGet Your Merch
No persons identified in this episode.
This episode hasn't been transcribed yet
Help us prioritize this episode for transcription by upvoting it.
Popular episodes get transcribed faster
Other recent transcribed episodes
Transcribed and ready to explore now
Eric Larsen on the emergence and potential of AI in healthcare
10 Dec 2025
McKinsey on Healthcare
Reducing Burnout and Boosting Revenue in ASCs
10 Dec 2025
Becker’s Healthcare -- Spine and Orthopedic Podcast
Dr. Erich G. Anderer, Chief of the Division of Neurosurgery and Surgical Director of Perioperative Services at NYU Langone Hospital–Brooklyn
09 Dec 2025
Becker’s Healthcare -- Spine and Orthopedic Podcast
Dr. Nolan Wessell, Assistant Professor and Well-being Co-Director, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Division of Spine Surgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine
08 Dec 2025
Becker’s Healthcare -- Spine and Orthopedic Podcast
NPR News: 12-08-2025 2AM EST
08 Dec 2025
NPR News Now
NPR News: 12-08-2025 1AM EST
08 Dec 2025
NPR News Now