In this week’s episode of Friends, Loves, & Life, I sit down with someone I’ve known for nearly 25 years—Dr. Alex del Rosario. He’s an HIV specialist, a leather man, a deeply thoughtful gay doctor, and one of the most open, generous people I know. Talking with Alex always feels like pulling up a chair with someone who just gets it—and this conversation is no exception.
We cover a lot of ground. We talk about sex (a lot of it), aging, HIV, self-acceptance, and what it means to love someone for over two decades. Alex shares how becoming HIV positive gave his life and career direction. We talk about how he met his husband on, a now long-defunct hook-up site, pig sex party, and what it’s like doing sexual health outreach in full leather gear. Yes—leather pants, harness, the whole deal.
There are serious moments, too. Alex opens up about the impact of recent political decisions on HIV funding, what it’s like for his trans patients to navigate care right now, and how the medical system—still—can make people feel ashamed just for being themselves. His insight into all of this is sharp, compassionate, and really important.
And then there’s the joy. We laugh a lot—about gym run-ins, naked hikes, pheromone attraction, and how growing older sometimes just means leaning harder into your kinks and your truth. Alex reminds me (and maybe you, too) that being out and open isn’t just an act of resistance—it’s also a celebration.
One of my favorite parts of this episode is when we reflect on how our friendship has evolved, and how he and his husband supported me during my first year of fatherhood. Honestly, without friends like them, I don’t know how I would’ve made it through those early months.
Whether you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community or just someone who appreciates a raw, funny, and deeply honest conversation about life, love, and the messiness in between—this episode is worth your time.
Just a gentle reminder: this one’s not for young ears. We talk openly about sex, kink, gay culture, and medical realities—so maybe save it for after bedtime or that solo drive you’ve been meaning to take.
Join me and Dr. Alex as we get to the heart of it.
Until next time, be bold, be free, be you.
David
You can listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Substack, and YouTube. New episodes Wednesday.
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