Pride & Progress Podcast on Unitē

Julian Bryant & Bryan Kosarek

Pride & Progress podcast hosts, Julian Bryant and Bryan Kosarek, discuss the intersection of mental health and LGBTQ+ experiences. We explore the progress our community has made, introducing you to community leaders shaping the future, and YES the future is QUEER -- Welcome to Pride & Progress!

  1. 08/19/2024

    S1E4 Future of Gay Dating, Dating Inclusivity, & Tips for Finding Love -w- Daniel Cooley of Best Man Matchmaking

    S1E4 Future of Gay Dating, Dating Inclusivity, & Tips for Finding Love -w- Daniel Cooley of Best Man Matchmaking In this episode of Pride & Progress, Julian Bryant and Bryan Kosarek sit down with Daniel Cooley, the dynamic matchmaker behind Best Man Matchmaking. Join us as we dive into the world of matchmaking with Daniel, exploring how Best Man Matchmaking operates and what sets it apart. We’ll discuss the unique aspects of matchmaking for gay individuals versus heterosexual clients and the benefits of working with a matchmaker. Discover how Daniel’s journey from nonprofit advocacy to becoming a sought-after matchmaker has shaped his approach to helping clients find love. In the second part of our conversation, Daniel shares personal insights from his career and his experiences with clients in cities like LA, NYC, and Austin. We delve into the common challenges faced by gay singles, the misconceptions about matchmaking, and the most unexpected matches Daniel has facilitated. Get a glimpse into his own dating life and how his personal experiences impact his professional work. Finally, we explore the intersectionality of being gay and dating, including tips for dating sober, handling rejection, and navigating mental health challenges within the LGBTQ+ community. Daniel offers invaluable advice for those struggling with their sexuality, and we discuss how inclusivity plays a crucial role in the matchmaking process. Whether you're seeking a meaningful relationship or just curious about the matchmaking process, this episode has something for everyone. Listen now and join us in celebrating love, progress, and the journey to finding your perfect match! Topics Discussed How matchmaking worksHow the matchmaking process differ for gay individuals compared to heterosexual individualsWhat do you feel separates Best Man Matchmaking apart from other matchmakersHow much does it cost to work with a matchmaker and the top perks of working with a matchmakerHow matchmakers address and help clients overcome the stigma some individuals may have about seeking professional matchmaking servicesRole self-awareness and personal growth play in finding a compatible partnerAdvice and encouragement for those who have experienced repeated challenges or disappointments in their dating livesCommon challenges and/or misconceptions matchmakers encounter when helping gay individuals find loveEffective strategies for creating meaningful connections beyond the initial attractionInclusivity within the matchmaking process to ensure individuals from diverse backgrounds feel represented and supportedAdvice for individuals who may be struggling with coming out or accepting their sexuality while also desiring a meaningful romantic relationshipAdvice for handling rejection in a healthy wayThe future of dating in the gay community particularly as it relates to mental health and recovery Keep up with the hosts Julian & Bryan on social media! Daniel Cooley & Best Man Matchmaking  Website: bestmanmatchmaking.comInstagram:Daniel Cooley Pride & Progress Podcast Instagram: @prideandprogresspodcastJulian Instagram: @juliandelsolBryan Website: theuniteapp.comInstagram: @bryankosarekUnite App: @theuniteapp

    1h 8m
  2. 07/16/2024

    S1E3 Hormone Replacement Therapy & Future of LGBTQ+ Medicine -w- Dr. David Alajajian, MD

    Pride & Progress S1E3 Hormone Replacement Therapy & Future of LGBTQ+ Medicine -w- Dr. David Alajajian, MD In this episode, Bryan Kosarek and Julian Bryant dive into the evolving landscape of hormone replacement therapy and LGBTQ+ medicine with Dr. David Alajajian, MD, a board-certified Internal Medicine specialist and HIV specialist from The Doctor clinic in West Hollywood. Bryan shares his personal journey of testing his testosterone levels and navigating the complex world of performance-enhancing substances. Dr. Alajajian sheds light on the reasons behind the prevalent use of hormone therapies within the LGBTQ+ community, addressing both the physical and mental health impacts. Together, they explore the intersection of aesthetics, wellness, and community health. Topics Discussed Transforming community healthcare at The Doctor Understanding testosterone levels and their impact on healthDifferences between hormone replacement therapy, performance-enhancing drugs, and steroidsMental health considerations: body dysmorphia, narcissism, and self-esteemBenefits and risks of hormone replacement therapyCosts and sustainability of maintaining hormone therapy and related treatmentsThe influence of social media and community pressure on body image Keep up with the hosts Julian & Bryan on social media! The Doctor - West Hollywood Website: thedoc.laUnitē Deal: Health Free IV Infusion at The Doctor for New PatientsPride & Progress Podcast Instagram: @prideandprogresspodcastJulian Instagram: @juliandelsolBryan Instagram: @bryankosarekUnite App: @theuniteapp

    54 min
  3. 06/24/2024

    S1E2 Bryan & Julian's "Velvet Rage": Embracing Authenticity on the Path to Happiness

    Pride & Progress S1E2 Bryan & Julian's "Velvet Rage": Embracing Authenticity on the Path to Happiness - Julian Bryant (he/him) + Bryan Kosarek (he/him)   In this episode cohosts do a deep dive discussing parts of the extremely insightful  book,  “The Velvet Rage” by Alan Downs.  Julian and Bryan explore how their sexuality and race impacted their life, authenticity, and leading them to compensate and seek out validation as gay men. The Velvet Rage lays a groundwork and a pathway for how individuals can move from being in the closet to living an authentic life and finding happiness.  But first, they'll discuss good news stories from the LGBTQ+ community that made their week a little brighter! Finally, Julian and Bryan round out the episode by discussing events coming up on their GayDar that they're looking forward to. Enjoy episode 2 of Pride & Progress!  Specific Topics in the Podcast Montana Drag Ban Found Unconstitutional  Same for Tennessee NBA Referee Che Flores Comes Out as TransU.S. Ranks Worst in Sports Homophobia StudyFire at San Diego Gossip Grill Bar Fire Was Not ArsonSwifties Raise Money for SD LGBT CenterSD LGBT Center 50th AnniversaryNational Hockey League Reveres Course and Allows Pride TapeCalifornia Recognizes Transgender History Month Keep up with the hosts Julian & Bryan on social media! Pride & Progress Podcast Instagram: @prideandprogresspodcastJulian Instagram: @juliandelsolBryan Instagram: @bryankosarekUnite App: @theuniteapp

    50 min
  4. S1E1 Online Therapy In The Age of Capitalism & LGBTQ Triumphs - Julian Bryant (he/him) + Bryan Kosarek (he/him)

    11/23/2023

    S1E1 Online Therapy In The Age of Capitalism & LGBTQ Triumphs - Julian Bryant (he/him) + Bryan Kosarek (he/him)

    Pride & Progress S1E1  Online Therapy In The Age of Capitalism & LGBTQ+ Triumphs - Julian Bryant (he/him) + Bryan Kosarek (he/him) In this episode we discuss the intersection of mental health and LGBT experiences. Hosts Julian and Bryan share personal therapy stories and celebrate global LGBT rights advancements. The episode touches on the impact of National Coming Out Day, analyzes online therapy in the age of capitalism, and culminates with reflections on societal challenges and triumphs. Introduction and Good News Segment #NationalComingOutDay:https://www.outsports.com/2023/9/8/23864075/san-diego-loyal-collin-martin-gay-athletes-soccer-playerLaphonza Butler Appointed to Senate: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2023/10/01/governor-gavin-newsom-appoints-laphonza-butler-senate/#:~:text=SACRAMENTO%20%E2%80%94%20Governor%20Gavin%20Newsom%20today,Feinstein%2C%20which%20runs%20through%202024.SDPD Crisis Intervention Recruiting: https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/news/public-safety/story/2022-09-13/san-diego-police-seek-volunteers-for-crisis-intervention-team5 More Countries Decriminalize Same-Sex Relations: https://www.hrc.org/resources/marriage-equality-around-the-worldHomophobia Criminalized in Brazil: https://www.thepinknews.com/2023/08/24/brazil-high-court-supreme-court-homophobia/ Deep Dive: Mental Health Julian’s experience signing-up for Better HelpJulian & Bryan’s comparison of personal and group therapy experiencesChallenges and benefits of different therapy models including critical analysis of online therapy platforms and the commercialization of mental health services. GayDar & Closing Julian & Bryan discuss plans for upcoming holidays including Halloween and Christmas and share personal plans and experiences related to holiday celebrations.Hosts reflect on the episode and topics discussed as well as plans and expectations for the future.

    57 min

About

Pride & Progress podcast hosts, Julian Bryant and Bryan Kosarek, discuss the intersection of mental health and LGBTQ+ experiences. We explore the progress our community has made, introducing you to community leaders shaping the future, and YES the future is QUEER -- Welcome to Pride & Progress!