Cutting The Strings talks about the numerous life lessons learned along the way in their self-discovery journey. A series of real conversations and talks about topics ranging from self love and acceptance to managing conflict and accountability are sure to provide insight, guidance, and a source of inspiration for those who join in. Remember: Life is about growth and learning from both our triumphs and failures alike. Hopefully by sharing, this can help aid the growth of all alike.
After two and a half years of this project, It is now coming to an end.
In this video, I highlight recent changes to my mindset and share some words of encouragement for those of us out here who are pivoting either to something different or are in a period of rediscovering ourselves. For those of you who have listened and followed my journey, I appreciate you immensely. I hope you'll follow me on my next adventures as I pivot into one of my first passions: Fashion. Much love and see you on the other side!
11 Dec 2025
Preference or Requirements?: Clarifying the Record on Masc4Masc
In this conversation, I explore the complex dynamics of masculinity, masculine privilege, and preferences versus requirements from an academic lens.
I am breaking it all down; discussing the definitions of masculinity, the privileges associated with it, and the societal expectations that shape preferences in dating. Also, I will be discussing the distinction between preferences and requirements in relationships, urging listeners to reflect on their own biases and the impact of societal norms on their identities.
30 Sept 2025
Walking Through Mental Health
In this episode of Cutting the Strings, host Ivan Francis Wilbanks shares his personal journey with mental health, discussing his experiences with complex PTSD, bullying, and the impact of childhood trauma.
He emphasizes the importance of therapy, self-respect, and setting boundaries while navigating the challenges of mental health. Ivan encourages listeners to seek help and build a supportive community to foster healing and self-discovery.
10 Sept 2025
Tounge Tied: The Woes of Gay Male Communication
In this episode, we explore the challenges that gay men face in dating and socializing, particularly focusing on community expectations, adverse experiences, and the unique language of the gay community. He emphasizes the importance of self-worth and understanding one's value beyond societal standards, while also addressing the complexities of human interactions and the need for personal growth. The conversation highlights the evolving nature of dating and social dynamics within the LGBTQ+ community.Takeaways
Many gay men struggle with dating due to unrealistic community expectations.
Adverse experiences can significantly impact confidence and self-worth.
Understanding the non-verbal language of the gay community is crucial for social interactions.
Self-assessment of worthiness is more important than external validation.
Navigating social spaces requires setting clear boundaries and respecting oneself.
Human interactions are complex, and grace is needed in understanding others.
Priorities shift over time, affecting dating and social experiences.
The world is changing, and so are the dynamics of dating within the LGBTQ+ community.
Not every person in the community is bad; there are good people too.
Personal growth and self-acceptance are vital for healthy relationships.
3 Sept 2025
Jealousy: The Real Nasty Work
In this episode of Cutting the Strings, host Ivan Francis Wilbanks delves into the complex emotion of jealousy, exploring its destructive nature in various relationships, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community.
He shares personal experiences, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and open communication to navigate jealousy effectively. The conversation highlights the need for honest discussions before, during, and after social events to prevent misunderstandings and conflicts arising from jealousy.
22 Aug 2025
A Reaction: 1 Black Radical vs 20 Black Conservatives
In this episode of Cutting the Strings, I delve into the viral debate between Amanda Searles and 20 Black conservatives on Jubilee. He discusses the complexities of Black American political ideologies, the impact of historical education on current perspectives, and the legacy of slavery in modern society. I re-examine the role of media in shaping perceptions of crime and highlight the dangers of misinformation, particularly in platforms like Jubilee.
4 Aug 2025
Ten Years in ATL
In this episode, we celebrate 10 years of my experience of living in Atlanta. I came to the Big Peach on July 31, 2015, to begin my journey in law school and have largely not turned back since.
Today, I share personal stories, anecdotes, and tidbits that highlight the lessons learned over the decade. We'll discuss the importance of resilience in the face of change, the value of friendships forged in unexpected places, and how the city's cultural diversity has impacted my perspective.
Whether you're an Atlanta native, a newcomer, or simply curious about life in the South, this episode will resonate with anyone seeking growth and understanding in their own journey!
18 Jul 2025
Five Mistakes of the Married
In this episode, we get real about the mistakes many couples make that can trip them up. We discuss everything from poor communication habits and taking each other for granted to the struggles that come with being selfish and not growing with your partner. I share my viewpoints as a former family law attorney who has observed these mistakes from the outside looking in as well as someone who has previously made some of these mistakes and offer some practical suggestions on how to improve communication and connection.
10 Jul 2025
Teaching Folks How To Treat You
In this episode, we’re digging into an important topic: how to teach people to treat you right. It’s all about setting boundaries and making sure others know what’s cool and what’s not. By clearly communicating your needs and demonstrating what you expect, you can build healthier relationships that feel good for everyone involved. We’ll share some straightforward tips on how to stand up for yourself and create connections based on respect and understanding.But let’s be real—teaching people how to treat you isn’t always easy. There are a lot of obstacles to navigate, like the fear of conflict, the pressure to fit in, or just falling back into old habits. We’ll talk about some of the emotional challenges that can come up when you start setting boundaries and why self-awareness and resilience are key. Tune in as we explore how to take control of your relationships and inspire positive changes in the way you interact with others.
1 Jul 2025
No Fats, No Fems, No Dice
The host of Cutting the Strings shares personal experiences and perspectives as a femme-presenting Black gay man, discussing observations and arguments within the LGBTQ+ discourse in this episode.
1 Jan 2024
EIGHT: 2023 Was A Learning Year
Happy 2024! As we ring in the new year, we must look at the lessons we learned in 2023. In this episode, I am sharing five lessons I have learned in 2023; and how each of these lessons are something we can all use to improve our lives in the New Year.
17 Dec 2023
SEVEN: Accountability and How We Run From It
Hosts discuss how people avoid accountability and provide steps to take ownership of words and actions, leading to personal growth and empowerment.
8 Dec 2023
SIX: A Reminder That Your Voice Matters
Originally recorded around Thanksgiving, this episode discusses how to speak your mind, stand your ground, and how doing both can protect your self-worth. Remember, you can always say “No.”
15 Oct 2023
FIVE: To Poly or Not to Poly? Monogamy and Polyamory Discussed
In this episode, we explore monogamy and polyamory. We discuss the good, the bad, the differences, and the similarities between these two relationship styles and types. No matter if you're only looking for that one soulmate or you have love to share, jump in and explore with us in Episode Five!
1 Oct 2023
FOUR: Legitimacy and Acceptance
Welcome everyone to the fourth episode of cutting the strings. During this episode, we explore the concept of legitimacy and acceptance within our social systems, and how it has the potential to impact our mental physical and emotional health.
19 Sept 2023
THREE: Body Talk - A Body Image Tale
Hosts Amber Housley and Alex Bahou explore the nuanced impact of body image on the black, gay, and femme experience, empowering listeners to love and accept their bodies.
10 Sept 2023
TWO: Intentions
Host Lex Fridman interviews Ensemble AI co-founders Alex Reneau & Zach Albertson about how their Feature Enhancement technology empowers data scientists to achieve state-of-the-art results without complex models.
28 Jul 2023
ONE: Introduction / Beware of Naysayers
Hosts Alex Reneau & Zach Albertson introduce the concept of cutting the strings of personal and professional constraints, enabling listeners to make progress and achieve their goals.
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YouTube views
125
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Podcast Authority Score: 20 / 100
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Quality
15
Social presence
0
YouTube
63
Engagement
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