The Circle: The Queer Men's Embodiment Podcast

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 movement
• How body insecurity can lead to avoidance or addictive behaviors in queer men
• The power of community and safe spaces in making fitness approachable for everyone
• How embodiment practices help men develop a more loving, intuitive connection with their bodies

Whether 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/
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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.

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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 authentically
Emotional complexities of gratitude for men
Gratitude challenges in queer men’s work
Moving beyond performative gratitude
The 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.