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 works
• How the matchmaking process differ for gay individuals compared to heterosexual individuals
• What do you feel separates Best Man Matchmaking apart from other matchmakers
• How much does it cost to work with a matchmaker and the top perks of working with a matchmaker
• How matchmakers address and help clients overcome the stigma some individuals may have about seeking professional matchmaking services
• Role self-awareness and personal growth play in finding a compatible partner
• Advice and encouragement for those who have experienced repeated challenges or disappointments in their dating lives
• Common challenges and/or misconceptions matchmakers encounter when helping gay individuals find love
• Effective strategies for creating meaningful connections beyond the initial attraction
• Inclusivity within the matchmaking process to ensure individuals from diverse backgrounds feel represented and supported
• Advice for individuals who may be struggling with coming out or accepting their sexuality while also desiring a meaningful romantic relationship
• Advice for handling rejection in a healthy way
• The 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.com
• Instagram:Daniel Cooley 

Pride & Progress Podcast

• Instagram: @prideandprogresspodcast

Julian

• Instagram: @juliandelsol

Bryan

• Website: theuniteapp.com
• Instagram: @bryankosarek
• Unite App: @theuniteapp

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 health
• Differences between hormone replacement therapy, performance-enhancing drugs, and steroids
• Mental health considerations: body dysmorphia, narcissism, and self-esteem
• Benefits and risks of hormone replacement therapy
• Costs and sustainability of maintaining hormone therapy and related treatments
• The 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.la
• Unitē Deal: Health Free IV Infusion at The Doctor for New Patients

Pride & Progress Podcast

• Instagram: @prideandprogresspodcast

Julian

• Instagram: @juliandelsol

Bryan

• Instagram: @bryankosarek
• Unite App: @theuniteapp

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 Trans
• U.S. Ranks Worst in Sports Homophobia Study
• Fire at San Diego Gossip Grill Bar Fire Was Not Arson
• Swifties Raise Money for SD LGBT Center
• SD LGBT Center 50th Anniversary
• National Hockey League Reveres Course and Allows Pride Tape
• California Recognizes Transgender History Month
  
  

Keep up with the hosts Julian & Bryan on social media!

Pride & Progress Podcast

• Instagram: @prideandprogresspodcast

Julian

• Instagram: @juliandelsol

Bryan

• Instagram: @bryankosarek
• Unite App: @theuniteapp

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-player
• Laphonza 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-team
• 5 More Countries Decriminalize Same-Sex Relations: https://www.hrc.org/resources/marriage-equality-around-the-world
• Homophobia 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 Help
• Julian & Bryan’s comparison of personal and group therapy experiences
• Challenges 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.

Welcome to Unitē Social — A new Unitē community and membership that sits at the intersection of social experiences and mental wellness support. 

Offering six signature Unitē events every month (Social, Outdoors, Wellness, Growth, Connect, and Unplugged), we’re proud to announce our in-person community for Gay and Queer men has launched in Los Angeles. 

Unitē Social is more than limitless support and uplifting queer social experiences — it’s yours to define. 

Join our inaugural wellness membership community or continue enjoying our free content on the app or web. 

To learn more about Unitē Social, and our other offerings, visit theuniteapp.com/learn.

Here are 7 ways to meet new people or friends who are motivated to become better people. Bryan Kosarek, the Founder of the Unitē app, talks about how he built his network while living in Chicago, New York City, Los Angeles, and Mexico City. If you're just out of college, or looking to expand your network as an adult, these are great ways to put yourself out there. Also, visit theuniteapp.com for more insights and collections on how to grow your network and meet new people. 

Join us this Sunday, April 9th for the LA Drag March. 

We’ll be meeting in front of the West Hollywood City Hall at 11:30 am in drag, or your most comfortable clothes, along with signs celebrating trans/non-binary lives, drag queens/kings, and queer culture.

This is the LA LGBT Center’s first major mobilizing against the oppressive anti-LGBTQ+ tidal wave of legislation happening across America.

Join the @lalgbtcenter, @theuniteapp, @theboysoftomorrow, and @babygaytv for this historic moment as we let the far right know we will not stand by and watch LGBTQ+ rights be rolled back. 

Learn more about the power and history of LGBTQ+ activism at theuniteapp.com.

Join Kevin Kasir (he/him), Gay Life Coach, along with the Unitē Founder Bryan Kosarek (he/him) as they explore six topics impacting Gay and Queer men on their life journey. This rapid style discussion allows you to quickly explore  •  Porn and Addiction     •  Compulsive Sexual Behavior vs Just Being Horny     •  Aging    •  Self-Esteem and Body confidence    •  Internalized Shame   •  Partying and Addiction  →  Learn more about Kevin Kasir    •  Instagram:   @kevinkasir      •   TikTok:  @kevinkasir    •   YouTube:  @kevinkasir 

Join Kevin Kasir (he/him), Gay Life Coach, along with the Unitē Founder Bryan Kosarek (he/him) as they explore six topics impacting Gay and Queer men on their life journey. This rapid style discussion allows you to quickly explore  •  Porn and Addiction     •  Compulsive Sexual Behavior vs Just Being Horny     •  Aging    •  Self-Esteem and Body confidence    •  Internalized Shame   •  Partying and Addiction  →  Learn more about Kevin Kasir    •    Instagram:   @kevinkasir      •     TikTok:  @kevinkasir    •      YouTube:  @kevinkasir 

Join Anthony Catalino, a GBTQ+ Life Coach, along with the Unitē Founder Bryan Kosarek as they explore five topics impacting GBTQ+ men on their life journey. This rapid style discussion allows you to quickly explore  •  Growing up as Gay, Bi, Trans, Queer     • Masculine / Feminine Energy     • Internalized Homophobia    • Key to Creating More Happiness and Authenticity    •  Sexuality Spectrum   •  Dating as a GBTQ+ Man  →  Anthony Catalino    •    Instagram:   @anthony_s_catalino      •     Website:   anthonycatalino.com    •      Linktree:   linktr.ee/acatalino