Black Men and Manhood: Why So Many Feel Like They’re Not Measuring UpWhy do so many Black men feel like they’re not measuring up? Whether it’s struggling to meet societal expectations, feeling inadequate in relationships, or quietly carrying the weight of unspoken traumas—this conversation is long overdue. We’re peeling back the layers, from toxic expectations to the quiet battle with self-worth, and making space for truth, healing, and real talk.
Today’s episode is dedicated to exploring the real experiences of Black love in therapy. We’ll discuss common issues couples face and hear from our amazing panel of therapists on how they approach these challenges in session. Whether you’re dating, engaged, married, or navigating healing from past relationships, this episode is for you.
This Pride Month, we’re celebrating identity in its fullness. In this episode, we talk about what it means to be Queer, Black, and Whole in a world that often tries to split us apart. From navigating family and faith to finding joy, freedom, and healing—this is a conversation about reclaiming every piece of ourselves without apology. Because being whole doesn’t mean being perfect—it means being real.
Welcome back to Vulnerability is the New Sexy, the space where healing gets real, and therapy meets real life.Every second Tuesday of the month, we bring together an incredible panel of licensed Black therapists to respond to the questions you’ve been sending in—because sometimes, you just need to talk to your therapist. So join us tonight for Vulnerability is the New Sexy.
On today’s episode, we’re taking a deep dive into an often overlooked question in our community: Are we really prepared for emotionally intelligent partners?We’ve all seen the trending conversations and Instagram posts unpacking what it means to be in a relationship with a man who shows up with emotional honesty, clarity, and integrity—but what does that really require from us as individuals and as a community?Today’s conversation brings together a powerful panel of Black mental health professionals to explore this topic with nuance, honesty, and cultural relevance.
Today, we’re diving deep into a conversation that many of us avoid but desperately need—accountability and forgiveness. As Black men, our ability to heal and evolve is directly tied to how well we own our mistakes and release resentment. Without accountability, growth is stunted. Without forgiveness, peace is impossible.
Welcome back to Vulnerability is the New Sexy. I’m your host, Joe Corley — licensed therapist and Black male mental health advocate. Today’s episode is deeply personal. We’re talking about the presence — and absence — of fathers in the Black community, and how that shapes who we are as men, fathers, and partners. We’ll dive into the generational patterns, the healing, and the legacy we’re trying to build. I’m joined by some incredible brothers who are here to share their truth.
Today’s episode is one we wish we didn’t have to have — but we must. We’re here to honor lives like Kyren Lacy and Keith Miller — Black men whose inner battles became too heavy to carry. We’re not here to speculate. We’re here to listen, feel, and heal — as a community.
Welcome back to Vulnerability Is the New Sexy. I’m your host, Joe Corley, and this week we're diving into a timely and transformative conversation: How do we get beyond the gender wars and start uplifting one another as Black men and women?The narratives online often pit us against each other, but real healing happens when we sit down, listen, and speak with intention. Today, I’m joined by two brilliant therapists, Felice Britt HighTower and Jeanni Johnson, and one more brother in the field, as we explore what it truly means to understand each other’s needs, expectations, and emotional truths
Welcome back to Vulnerability Is the New Sexy. Tonight, we’re examining the health of today's Black man. We're looking at mind, body, and soul to explore the intersection of physical health, mental health, and the lived experience of Black men. We'll dive into how stress, culture, systemic oppression, and internalized expectations take a toll on our bodies and minds—and what we can do about it. It's a talk few Black men may want to hear, but all should. Join us tonight.
Welcome back to Vulnerability Is the New Sexy. Today, we’re diving into a real conversation that’s been sitting heavy with me. I recently saw a clip of Kool Moe Dee saying something that stuck with me—he called the drug dealer the first sellout in the Black community. Then, I saw another clip of Black celebrities openly praising movements and ideologies that seem to go against our people.""It made me wonder—who has done more damage to the Black community? The drug dealer who brought destruction to our neighborhoods? The Black celebrity who profits off our culture while promoting anti-Blackness? Or is it something bigger—systemic forces, white supremacy, economic oppression? And if we’re keeping it all the way real, how have women’s responses to these types of men played a role in this dynamic?""So today, I’m chopping it up with my brothers Jonathan, Q, and Walter. We’re going to break this down, challenge some narratives, and get to the root of who or what has really hurt us the most
Welcome back to Vulnerability Is the New Sexy. Today’s conversation is one that’s been a long time coming—How to Make a Black Man Feel Seen. Because let’s be real, in a world that demands so much from us, how often do we feel truly valued beyond what we provide?"I’ve got three brothers with me today—Mike, Walter, and Q—and we’re going to get into what it really means to be seen, why so many Black men suffer in silence, and what needs to change in our relationships, our communities, and within ourselves. Fellas, before we dive in, I want to ask—on a scale from 1 to 10, how seen do you feel in your personal life? And why?
Welcome back to Vulnerability Is the New Sexy. Today, we’re diving into a powerful discussion inspired by something the rapper Ma$e said—‘No powerful man has ever achieved greatness without a strong woman by his side.’""For centuries, Black men have been raised with the idea that we have to be strong, independent, and self-sufficient. But what if true greatness isn’t about going at it alone? What if having the right woman in your corner isn’t just an asset—but a requirement?""Joining me today are three Black men I deeply respect—my brothers Q and Walter, and a fellow therapist, Brian Perry. We’re going to break this down, get real about our experiences, and talk about what this means for us as men. Fellas, before we jump in, what was your first reaction to this statement? Do you believe it’s true?
Welcome back to Vulnerability Is the New Sexy. This is Part 4 of our relationship series, where we’ve been diving deep into what makes relationships thrive. Today, we’re talking about something that can make or break a couple—creating shared meaning and building a future with purpose.""I’m Joe Corley, a licensed therapist, and today’s conversation is all about the importance of aligning values, setting goals together, and making sure we don’t just exist in the same space but actually build a meaningful life together. And for this special episode, I’m honored to have my wife, Donna, joining me. Donna, I know we’ve had our own journey when it comes to growing together, so I’m glad you’re here to share your insight.
The Art of Turning Towards: Everyday Bids for ConnectionA Special Episode of "Vulnerability Is The New Sexy"Welcome back to another episode of Vulnerability Is The New Sexy. This is Part 3 of our special four-part series on relationships, and today we’re diving into something that might seem small but actually has the power to make or break relationships—how we respond to each other’s bids for connection.""Bids for connection are the little things—when your partner sends a text just to check in, when they want to share a story from their day, or when they reach for your hand while walking together. How we respond to these moments can either build intimacy or create distance over time. Many relationships don’t fall apart because of big, explosive fights, but because of small, everyday disconnections.""In this episode, we’re going to break down what these bids look like, how we can respond to them in ways that strengthen our relationships, and how to stay emotionally present even when life gets busy."
Welcome back to another episode of Vulnerability Is The New Sexy. This is Part 2 of our special four-part series on relationships. Today, we’re talking about something every couple faces—conflict. But instead of seeing conflict as something that tears relationships apart, what if we learned how to fight in a way that actually brings us closer?Let’s be real—many of us grew up in environments where conflict meant yelling, shutting down, or even walking away completely. But if we don’t learn how to communicate through disagreements, we risk losing the very connections we’re trying to protect. Conflict doesn’t have to be destructive—it can actually be an opportunity for deeper understanding, growth, and intimacy. The key is knowing how to navigate it in a healthy way."Today, we’re breaking down exactly how to do that, and I have some incredible guests joining me:Donna Corley – My wife, who knows firsthand what it’s like to navigate conflict with me.Mike & Kim Pruitt – A couple who has learned to turn conflict into connection.Derrick & Mel Moore – A couple with experience overcoming major challenges together.Jeanni Johnson, LPC – A therapist who specializes in conflict resolution.We’re going to unpack why so many couples struggle with fighting fair and what practical steps you can take to improve how you and your partner handle disagreements. Join us on Vulnerability is the New Sexy.
Welcome to Vulnerability Is the New Sexy. I’m your host, Joe Corley, a Black male therapist passionate about creating spaces where we can have real, raw conversations that promote healing and growth. Relationships are one of the most important and sometimes most difficult aspects of our lives, and that’s why for the month of February, I’m bringing you a four-part series all about relationships. My goal is to give you honest, unfiltered discussions that leave you with real tools to build stronger, healthier connections. Whether you’re dating, married, or somewhere in between, this series is for you." "Tonight, we’re talking about the foundation of love—how to build and maintain emotional connection. Because real love isn’t just about romance; it’s about deep understanding, trust, and the ability to be vulnerable with each other. I’m excited to have some incredible guests joining me for this conversation, including my wife, Donna, two amazing couples, and a fellow Black male therapist, Dr. Curtis Hill."
Welcome to Vulnerability Is the New Sexy, the podcast where we have real conversations, break down barriers, and explore the strength in vulnerability. I’m Joe Corley—a licensed therapist, mental wellness consultant, and advocate for authentic living. This is a space for Black men to talk about the tough stuff, normalize seeking support, and redefine what it means to be strong and self-aware. Because here, we know vulnerability isn’t just powerful—it’s sexy. Let’s get started.
Welcome to Vulnerability Is the New Sexy, the podcast where we break down barriers, have honest conversations, and embrace the transformative power of vulnerability. Tonight we're talking about a term that's been around for centuries but is now being weaponized in a new, toxic attack against Black Men. "Sassy" is usually a term to describe women, so why is it now being used to emasculate men? Tonight we'll talk about how societal norms define Black masculinity. I’m Joe Corley—a licensed therapist, mental wellness consultant, and advocate for authentic living. This is your space to explore tough topics, normalize seeking help, and redefine what strength and self-awareness look like. Because here, we believe that vulnerability isn’t just powerful—it’s sexy.
Welcome to Vulnerability Is the New Sexy, where we normalize vulnerability and celebrate growth in Black men. I’m your host, Joe Corley, and tonight, we’re diving into a timely conversation about Black men and New Year’s resolutions. Now that 2025 is here, we’re reflecting on how goal-setting can shape our mental health, our relationships, and our future. Are resolutions just a ritual, or can they be transformative for Black men? Let’s talk about it.”