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What happens when queer community building gets moved to the morning--bright, intentional, and phone-free? In this episode of The Mindfully Gay Podcast, hosts John Cottrell and Jerry Buie sit down with Landon and Kevin, creators of Morning Wood (@morningwoodparty), a daytime, sex-positive social gathering designed to foster real connection, body positivity, and inclusive community--without the noise, the post-midnight pressure, or the performative vibe.

You'll hear how a barber-chair idea became a fast-growing movement where men of all ages, bodies, and backgrounds meet, talk, flirt, and (if they choose) explore intimacy--with consent and communication at the center. We unpack how Morningwood challenges hyper-edited "Instigay" norms, why banning phones actually lowers anxiety and boosts conversation, and how trained social hosts help newcomers feel welcome from the moment they step in.

The conversation also explores:

- Body image & age inclusivity: showing real people, not perfection filters

- Social anxiety tools: intention-setting, opt-in spaces, and "choose-your-own-adventure" design

- Sexual wellness with Legacy Health (Utah AIDS Foundation): testing, PrEP/DoxyPEP education, and game nights as low-pressure entry points

- Post-pandemic reconnection: rebuilding face-to-face community with mindful structure

- Queer innovation: expanding the cultural narrative beyond nightlife to joy, safety, and belonging

If you've ever wondered where to meet quality people in a respectful, affirming environment--or how to host gatherings that balance pleasure, safety, and authenticity--this episode is your roadmap.

Listen on audio: Download on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Watch the video podcast on YouTube (search: Mindfully Gay Podcast).

Follow our free social events and updates: MindfullyGay.com and @mindfully_gay.

And follow Morning Wood on Instagram @morningwoodparty

@mindfully_gay (Instagram)

Send us a text

What happens when queer community building gets moved to the morning--bright, intentional, and phone-free? In this episode of The Mindfully Gay Podcast, hosts John Cottrell and Jerry Buie sit down with Landon and Kevin, creators of Morning Wood (@morningwoodparty), a daytime, sex-positive social gathering designed to foster real connection, body positivity, and inclusive community--without the noise, the post-midnight pressure, or the performative vibe.

@mindfully_gay (Instagram)

Send us a text

What happens when we stop assuming that every instance of male touch must be sexual? In this powerful conversation, John and Jerry sit down with Travis Matthews (WLF Massage, Salt Lake City) to explore how Thai massage, fascia release, and somatic bodywork help queer men relax, refresh, and reset. We unpack why touch between men is often stigmatized, how arousal can simply be energy moving (not a sexual invitation), and practical ways to cultivate safe, affirming touch that supports healing, intimacy, and community.

You'll learn:

- Why many queer men equate touch with sex--and how to shift that paradigm

- The difference between erotic and sensual/energetic experiences

- How Thai massage & somatic work release stored tension/trauma and invite vulnerability

- Concrete practices to build touch literacy (hugs, handshakes, supportive touch) without sexual pressure

- How "Relax, Refresh, Reset" can become a daily embodiment practice

Guest:

Travis Matthews -- WLF Massage (Thai massage, fascia work, lymphatic & Swedish modalities) • Salt Lake City, UT

Website: WLFmassage.com

Key Takeaways:

- Touch can be healing, relational, and spiritual--not only sexual.

- Somatic work helps create space for new energy, clarity, and connection.

- Build community by practicing non-sexual touch in safe contexts.

- Reframe labels as conversation starters, not destinations.

Listen on audio: Apple Podcasts & Spotify

Watch more: Mindfully Gay Podcast on YouTube

Connect: MindfullyGay.com • IG: @mindfully_gay • TikTok: @MindfullyGay

Have a question or topic idea? Drop a comment or DM--we read everything.

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@mindfully_gay (Instagram)