Gay Men Going Deeper21 Aug 2025

The Problem With Self-Love

We all know self-love is important, but what happens when it goes too far in the wrong direction?

In this episode, Michael DiIorio is joined by therapist Michael Pezzullo for an honest conversation about the shadow side of self-love. Together, they explore:

The difference between self-comforting and self-coddling
How emotional sensitivity can become emotional fragility
Why self-bulldozing is just as harmful as avoidance
The four zones of the Self-Love Spectrum
How trauma impacts the way we “love” ourselves
How to tell if you're truly healing…or just hiding.

You’ll learn about the Self-Love Spectrum, the signs of self-coddling and self-bulldozing, and how to practice a more empowering, growth-oriented version of self-love- without abandoning your need for care and compassion.

Join us for an episode that will help you get honest about how you love yourself, and what real self-love actually looks like.

Today's Guest: Michael Pezzullo

Today's Host: Michael DiIorio

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