Could a wellness brand help tackle loneliness and redefine health for gay men?

In this episode, entrepreneurs and founders of Friend of Dorothy, Oliver and Azamat, join the podcast to discuss the inspiration, challenges, and vision behind their business—an unapologetically gay wellness brand created specifically for gay men. They share the journey from concept to launch, and how their personal experiences helped shape a brand designed to address gaps in health, community, and mental wellbeing within the LGBTQ+ community.

The conversation explores the realities of building wellness products that genuinely speak to gay men—from developing supplements and health-focused products to ensuring authenticity, inclusivity, and representation in branding and messaging. At its core, Friend of Dorothy is about more than products; it’s about tackling loneliness, fostering connection, and creating spaces where gay men can prioritise their physical and mental health without stigma.

Looking ahead, Oliver and Azamat discuss their vision for a broader wellness ecosystem, including digital tools, a wellness app, and community initiatives designed to bring people together. The episode offers an honest look at entrepreneurship, mental health, and what it means to build a purpose-driven brand focused on helping gay men live healthier, more connected lives.

Socials:

IG

@friend.of.dorothy.wellness

Website:

https://friend-of-dorothy.com/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23632603359&gbraid=0AAAAAqvDvWPJIo8s7CNY9PMr6G9XxcUX9&gclid=Cj0KCQjw4PPNBhD8ARIsAMo-icxqqrKmyXomANCPxcsYThwlGWi8dWxHVO_febqRJBoai3E_LmjvIRsaAhpmEALw_wcB

Keywords:

gay wellness, LGBTQ wellness, community, mental health, loneliness, supplements, inclusivity, gay men’s health, wellness app, LGBTQ entrepreneurship

Why does addiction keep pulling people back, even when they know it’s destroying their lives?

In this powerful episode, renowned addiction therapist Mandy Saligari takes us on her journey from personal recovery to becoming a leading voice in outpatient addiction treatment. Drawing on decades of experience, Mandy uncovers the deeper roots of addiction and explains why recovery isn’t just about stopping — it’s about taking responsibility, changing patterns, and rebuilding a life from the inside out.

She shares practical strategies for individuals and families, explores the critical role of early intervention, and reveals why sustainable recovery requires both structure and compassion. Mandy also dives into the influence of family systems, and how building resilience, discipline, and self-awareness can transform not just recovery, but life itself.

Whether you’re personally affected by addiction or simply want to understand the psychology behind recovery, this conversation offers clear insights, actionable guidance, and a fresh perspective on what it truly takes to break free.

More from Mandy:

TEDx:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JD4O7ama3o8

Website:

https://www.charterharleystreet.com/

Book:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Proactive-Parenting-self-destructive-behaviours-self-esteem-ebook/dp/B07GDPVL9K?ref_=ast_author_mpb&fbclid=PAVERTVgQcDqRleHRuA2FlbQIxMABzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA81NjcwNjczNDMzNTI0MjcAAaeqVScOf21RUKSLWxM3RwlUgFmOQt9XuuwrJSpzzNzgnFdq02_G2vtkRriONw_aem_g5583elNw-nM93ahnvx-ig

Keywords:

addiction, recovery, outpatient treatment, self-worth, mental health, mental health, addiction mental health, mental health awareness, Mandy Saligari addiction, recovery, self-discipline, early intervention, mental health, family systems, therapy, stigma, self-respect, boundaries

What does early adversity really do to a child’s developing mind — and how can caregivers help reshape that story?

In this episode, clinical psychologist Dr Sarah Mundy, who specialises in early adversity and attachment with adoptive families, unpacks the science and heart behind attachment theory. She explores how early trauma impacts children’s emotional development, behavior, and relationships — especially within adoptive families.

Sarah shares practical, compassionate tools parents and caregivers can use to nurture secure attachment, including the transformative power of storytelling in helping children process their experiences and build emotional resilience. This conversation offers hope, clarity, and actionable strategies for anyone supporting a child through trauma recovery.

Whether you're a parent, adoptive caregiver, or professional working with children, this episode provides insight into building trust, strengthening connection, and fostering long-term emotional wellbeing.

Socials:

IG:

parenting_through_stories

Amazon:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Please-Stay-Here-Separation-Parenting/dp/1838014411/ref=sr_1_3?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.5PczhilJ5mo1IU09I65RCBPfP8PqdEmDOaUK9898BxPGjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.6EcsyOKO_SFIQ-sXvb6SgjdXNUtpBkknawzsauvYOCc&dib_tag=se&qid=1771865128&refinements=p_27%3ADr+Sarah+Mundy&s=books&sr=1-3

keywords

attachment theory, early trauma, adoptive families, parenting, storytelling, emotional wellbeing, secure attachment, trauma recovery

What happens when gay men take sex off the table? In this episode, Chris shares the bold idea behind No Sex Gay Weekend — a space designed to spark real connection without the pressure of hooking up. He opens up about loneliness in the gay community, the aftershocks of COVID, the impact of chemsex, and how modern dating — from open relationships to swipe-and-dispose culture — can leave people feeling more isolated than ever. This is an honest conversation about intimacy beyond sex, the tension between physical attraction and emotional depth, and why safe spaces for genuine connection matter more than we think. Less pressure. More presence. Real connection.

IG:

@nosexgayweekend

Website:

nosexgayweekend.com

Keywords:

No Sex Gay Weekend, LGBTQ+, emotional connection, gay community, loneliness, open relationships, modern dating, chemsex, friendship, community building, gay man

What if being single isn’t a problem to solve—but a season to master? In this episode, founder of the new app Solo Circle, Michael McQueary challenges the stigma around singlehood, unpacking how societal pressure convinces people they’re “behind” if they’re not coupled up. He shares his personal journey of self-discovery, the power of learning to be in relationship with yourself, and why community changes everything. Discover more about Solo Circle and how to unlearn shame, build a deeper relationship with yourself, and find strength through community.

Socials:

IG:

solo_experiences

Website:

solocircleapp.com

Keywords

single life, self-discovery, societal pressures, community, loneliness, self-love, personal growth, relationships, Solo Circle, embracing solitude

What if healing isn’t about “fixing” what’s broken? In this episode, therapist Christian Snuffer reveals how somatic practices and psychedelics are reshaping therapy, unlocking deep, lasting change in body, mind, and nervous system. He exposes why so many of us feel disconnected, how trauma lives in our bodies, and why learning to truly feel again is the key to love, connection, and thriving in life. This isn’t just therapy—it’s a roadmap to reclaiming your humanity.

Socials:

IG:

@_attunement

Keywords

somatic therapy, psychedelics, mental health, trauma, central nervous system, healing, disconnection, love, relationships, therapy

Fitness isn’t about abs — it’s about habits, mindset, and support. Online coach Hayden Thomas opens up about his journey from overweight teenager to fitness coach, and how training reshaped his confidence and mental health. He talks fat loss myths, protein confusion, and why starting small is the key to lasting change. We also explore how Warhammer, play, and community fit into a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.

Socials:

IG:

@haydenthomasfitness

Keywords

fitness journey, mental health, overcoming barriers, online coaching, Warhammer, weight loss, self-esteem, exercise motivation, health and wellness, fitness, health, diet, weight loss, self-improvement, protein, habits, well-being, nutrition, personal growth

Clinical psychologist Dr. Matt Slavin explores how evolutionary psychology shapes our modern minds. From fear and anxiety to collaboration, competition, and connection, he reveals how embracing change—and reconnecting with nature—can transform mental health. Packed with insights on compassion, curiosity, and play, this episode shows how stepping into the wild can heal both mind and society.

Socials:

IG:

@drmattslavin

Website:

drmattslavin.com

Keywords

evolutionary psychology, mental health, compassion, collaboration, competition, fear, anxiety, therapy, nature, connection