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Episode Summary

In this powerful and thought-provoking episode, UNB Tim is joined by Scott, a straight man and long-time thong and spandex wearer, for a deep dive into masculinity, societal expectations, and the uneven playing field between gay and straight men when it comes to self-expression. Together, they unpack the cultural double standards that dictate what straight men can and can’t wear, how those rules stem from patriarchal control, and the emotional journey many men go through in embracing their authentic selves.

Scott opens up about his journey from high school football lineman and military Blackhawk pilot to body-positive advocate and unapologetic spandex-wearing gym-goer. He shares his near-death experience that led him to reevaluate his relationship with masculinity and stop living for others’ approval. This conversation touches on the societal discomfort with men expressing sexiness, why straight men face harsher criticism for non-traditional clothing choices, and how control, not attire, lies at the heart of these reactions.

Whether you’re gay, straight, or somewhere in between, this episode is a wake-up call to examine how masculinity is policed—and how liberating it is to break free from those constraints.

Notable Quotes

“Men fear the most the things that set them free.” – Scott

“It’s not the thong they’re offended by—it’s what the thong represents to them.” – UNB Tim

“You’re only as manly as the last thing you did. So if you’re not doing manly things, people start to question who you are.” – Scott

“Straight men want to be in control of everything in their life… and when they can’t control another man, it terrifies them.” – Scott

“What you wear doesn’t make you a man. But needing to control what other men wear? That says more about you than them.” – Scott

“If you look someone in the eye with conviction and show them you’re not afraid, bullies back down. They don’t know what to do with that energy.” – Scott

“Most people are too busy with their own lives to care what underwear you’re wearing. The fear is in your head.” – Scott

“You may lose some friends, but you’ll gain better ones. Burn out the deadwood. What you gain on the other side is worth it.” – Scott

“This isn’t just about underwear. This is about saving men from themselves—and the violence that grows from unchecked masculinity.” – Scott

“For anyone wanting to explore this more, read For the Love of Men by Liz Plank. It shifted my entire mindset.” – Scott

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MODUS VIVENDI Introduces Green to the Illusion Line – The “Juicy” Campaign Turns Up the Heat

MODUS VIVENDI is proud to unveil a new colorway for its best-selling Illusion Line as part of the SS 2025 Collection. Now available in green, this expansion of the line debuts alongside the visually playful and provocative “Juicy” Campaign, taking the art of seduction to the next level.

The Illusion Line is designed to captivate. Crafted from a soft, thin, and elasticated semitransparent mesh, the fabric molds comfortably to the body, enhancing your natural lines while offering a lightweight, breathable feel. This two-tone all-over print design blends strategic patterning with clever color contrasts, sculpting the body and creating the visual illusion of a more defined shape. Whether worn for bold expression or under sleek clothing, these pieces deliver style without sacrificing comfort.

A true fusion of elegance and innovation, the Illusion Line now comes in three statement shades: neon, black, and the freshly introduced green. Each color plays with light and shadow in its own way, emphasizing texture and form to flatter and elevate every body type.

Available in a range of underwear and apparel options, the Illusion Line is perfect for those who embrace expressive fashion and sleek design. The new green pieces are now live on our e-shop and ready to transform your summer wardrobe.

Discover the Illusion Line and immerse yourself in the playful yet sophisticated world of MODUS VIVENDI. The Spring-Summer 2025 Collection invites you to redefine everyday luxury—because true style is about confidence, comfort, and a little bit of illusion.

Get ready to go green — bold, fresh, and irresistibly juicy.

It’s time to make a difference in what you wear. Discover MODUS VIVENDI’s SS 25 Collection, available now for purchase online here. For more information about the line and the campaign, please contact us at marketing@e-modusvivendi.com.

Discover the “Juicy” Campaign here.

Shop Products here.

We’re thrilled to share the stunning lifestyle shots of L’Homme Invisible’s latest additions: the Rouen and Sèvres lines, part of their Spring/Summer 2025 “Flower Power” collection. These elegant styles draw inspiration from the intricate beauty of traditional French china patterns — mixing delicate detail with daring design.

See the full collection at L’Homme Invisible and bring a touch of timeless French artistry to your top drawer.

One brand that really brought a fetish twist to the world of underwear and gear is Maskulo. This brand out of Russia was one of the first to make the marriage of gear and sports gear. These singlets had the cod piece and pads on the quads. It reminded me of football gear, but with a kinky twist. This picture was from 2017, but they are still going strong and making amazing gear

On a recent episode of Brief Talk After Dark, UNB Tim sat down with two titans of the spandex world—Andy E. Lycra and Fourway—to dive deep into the fetish side of spandex. The result was an honest, affirming, and inspiring conversation about what draws men to the tight, glossy world of Lycra and why it deserves more celebration and community.

Spandex: The Turn-On We Shouldn’t Hide

For many, spandex is more than just athletic gear—it’s a deeply personal fetish. Whether it was Adam West’s Batman suit or a pair of football pants that hugged all the right places, most spandex enthusiasts remember the moment it clicked. The fabric is transformative, sensual, and confidence-boosting. It reveals just enough, while still leaving something to the imagination.

Andy recalled early exposure through dancewear and classic superhero costumes, while Fourway shared how football gear in high school sparked his obsession. Both emphasized the texture, tightness, and sculpting power of spandex—how it hugs imperfections, enhances bulges, and turns you into someone new. It’s not just clothing. It’s a second skin.

Confidence: From Shame to Stride

One major theme was the journey from shame to confidence. For both guests, the early days involved hiding—sneaking out in gear under cover of darkness, taking photos in secret, or limiting their love of Lycra to the bedroom. But gradually, through baby steps, they began to embrace it publicly. Running, cycling, and gym workouts offered socially “acceptable” avenues for wearing tights and singlets out in the world. And with each step, confidence grew.

Now, Fourway cycles through Boston in full skinsuits, gets compliments instead of stares, and feels more like himself in spandex than without. Andy, while still building his courage, recently stepped out in public in a Spider-Man suit during a trip to Thailand—an act of visibility he hopes to repeat more often.

Fetishwear and the Joy of Fabric

Beyond public gear, the trio celebrated the more erotic, fetish-driven side of spandex. Brands like End to End and Armoryse design suits with deliberate bulge enhancement, butt framing, and body contouring that go far beyond performance wear. While not for everyday use, these pieces serve a powerful purpose—helping men feel sexy, confident, and expressive in ways other fabrics simply can’t.

Andy described his love for zentai suits and sheer spandex, while Fourway lauded full-body technical suits, especially those with precise seams, sculpted pouches, and strategic cutouts. As Tim put it, spandex lets you be “someone else in your own skin.” It’s about transformation and fantasy—and that deserves to be celebrated.

Building a Spandex Community

Despite the widespread appeal of spandex, the community around it is still fragmented. Unlike leather or rubber, which have well-established events and gatherings, spandex lovers often fly solo. But that’s starting to change.

Fourway has built a small but dedicated group of local gear lovers who meet for hikes, kayaking, or just hanging out in tights. Andy has started nudging UK-based guys to connect at club nights and events, and UNB Tim is exploring meetups through his podcast and blog.

All three agreed that visibility, conversation, and respectful wear are key to normalizing spandex—and helping others feel seen. Whether it’s through social media, small meetups, or bigger dreams of a dedicated spandex gathering, the goal is clear: show the world that men in spandex aren’t oddities—they’re confident, creative, and connected.

The Final Word

As Fourway said on the podcast, “There’s nothing wrong with wearing spandex. Guys can wear spandex. It’s not an issue.” The more we talk about it, the more we destigmatize it—and the closer we get to a world where no one has to hide what they love.

So go ahead—pull on that singlet, slide into those tights, and step out into the world. Whether for sport, fashion, or fetish, spandex is for you. Be bold, be visible, and be yourself.

I have had so many amazing things happen to me because of UNB. These range from shoots to Vegas trips to meeting so many people. Some of them are famous and infamous. Lastly, one of the most special to me is the podcast. But all in all, it has been one of the best decisions of my life. That doesn’t mean that there haven’t been bad times, but the good outweighs the bad by far. 

I will summarize some of the most iconic UNB moments and give you a behind-the-scenes view. The good, bad, and ugly. You will discover that things didn’t go as smoothly as they seemed. And I want to bring back the shoots. It’s been something I’ve wanted to do for a few years. Stay tuned on that. 

Here are some of the things I plan to talk about 

  • We’ll go in depth on our guides, both swim and holiday, and our one and only Valentine’s shoot. 
  • Vegas stories, and there are so many, like the first time I met Andrew from N2N. And the unmet and greets we had in Vegas. And why Vegas fell apart 
  • The beginning of the podcast, what I feel it lacked, and why I never took off
  • Some behind-the-scenes videos of the current shows, especially the ones I love, have just come together. We have had some magic on the show. 

I know I’m missing a ton of great stories, and as I remember them, I will write them. And never fear—new things are happening all the time, so the stories will keep going on and on. Lastly, feel free to suggest topics and Unb events to write about. The first post will be our very first guide, which was a swim guide with one model. 

MODUS VIVENDI Unveils “True Colors” Campaign & Pride Swimwear Line from the Swimwear 2025 Collection.

MODUS VIVENDI proudly launches the True Colors Campaign, a celebration of individuality, inclusivity, and the fearless expression of identity. Part of the Swimwear 2025 Collection, this bold and joyful campaign shines a spotlight on our new Pride Swimwear Line—a vibrant tribute to the LGBTQIA+ community and the beauty of living authentically.

The True Colors Campaign captures the essence of pride: love, unity, and unapologetic self-expression. Through stunning visuals and bold styling, it invites everyone to show up, as they are— confident, proud, and empowered. It is more than just a summer vibe; it is a powerful reminder that being true to yourself is the ultimate statement.

Introducing the Pride Swimwear Line—a dynamic collection designed to make waves. Drawing inspiration from the iconic rainbow flag and the universal call for love and equality, this line goes beyond fashion. It is about standing tall in your truth and celebrating life without filters.

Crafted with bold, lavish designs that blend elements of both bikinis and briefs, each piece redefines traditional swimwear with a playful twist. A one-sided adjustable ribbon in rainbow hues brings movement, flair, and pride to every look.

All styles feature a fast drying elasticated fabric and front lining for comfort and practicality, without compromising on boldness. As part of our Responsible Edit, these pieces are made from recycled, previously loved fabrics, honoring our commitment to sustainability and giving materials a renewed purpose.

This summer, show your True Colors. Celebrate freedom. Celebrate love. Celebrate YOU—with MODUS VIVENDI’s Pride Swimwear Line. It is time to make a difference in what you wear. Discover SS 25 Collection, available for purchase online here.

Discover the Campaign here.

Shop the Line here.

A playful throwback to the unapologetic surf vibes of the 90s. Inspired by the era’s iconic swimwear—bold colors, carefree patterns, and that easygoing energy—this collection channels millennial nostalgia into modern, head-turning beachwear. Designed for sexy men who don’t settle for average, it’s the most elevated swimwear on the market—confident, flattering, and made to stand out. This is the Hunk Menswear Sunset Brief.

Borneo brings bold Colombian flair to the world of men’s fashion—with a conscience. 100% Colombian and proud, Borneo fuses style and sustainability to create standout designs that don’t compromise the planet. Known for their high-quality craftsmanship and eco-conscious approach, Borneo has made waves in the fashion world, participating in major events and winning awards for their commitment to conscious design. Beyond their own collection, Borneo also offers full-package manufacturing services to leading brands in Colombia and beyond—blending creativity, responsibility, and world-class production.

1. Delay Incoming

Hey everyone—just a quick update! I had planned to record an editor’s‑note podcast, but this past week has been incredibly draining. A lot of things piled up at once. You may have seen some of it on social media; I won’t go into every detail now. Because of that, the podcast is postponed until the weekend—possibly even next week, depending on how things settle out.

I’ve got two massive 14‑ to 16‑hour days ahead, back‑to‑back. On top of an already hectic life, it’s been challenging. It’s nothing life‑changing—just one of those weeks where everything hits all at once and knocked me off track. I’m still working through some emotions and logistics.

2. Podcast Schedule Strategy

We’re already recorded through August, so we’re in good shape on content. Moving forward, I’ll separate recording and release dates to avoid delays. Once a guest is booked, I’ll confirm both recording and release dates. Some episodes are still pending, so the schedule remains tentative—though we’ve shared a draft with Patreon supporters.

3. Expanding the Team

I’m looking for a few more hosts to bring fresh voices. They’ll each have their own style, opinions, and rhythm, and be encouraged to own their podcasts. I’m prioritizing diversity and authenticity. Early on, I admit I was a bit controlling—but now I’m ready to step back, encourage growth, and welcome new energy.

4. Blog Relaunch & Streamlining

The blog plan is complete; now it’s a matter of getting mentally into gear to write regularly again. In the past, I used Sundays for content production—posts plus automated social media scheduling. That workflow worked well. I’m exploring automation for BlueSky (and possibly still for Twitter). I’m considering returning to a streamlined prep-and-schedule routine.

5. Affiliate & Ad Update

As of last month, blog ad revenue is practically zero—only a very small sponsor paid, and even that didn’t fully deliver. I’ve removed all ad networks. Now I’m relying on affiliate links—these appear in the sidebar of UNBblog.com. Clicking them supports both you and the blog. I removed the persistent top‑of‑page ad that caused design issues. If we ever use it again, it’ll only be for special announcements.

6. Reader Survey Coming Soon

Typically, the survey runs in March, but this year got away from me. It’s coming soon. We’re moving survey hosting from Google to Microsoft and revamping questions to include more inclusive categories: sexuality (non‑binary, asexual, poly/open/playing poly, etc.) and relationship status. I’m finalizing graphics and questions and plan to launch as soon as possible.

What’s Next

Podcast editing has begun (I’m a few minutes in). Aim is to drop the episode over the weekend—assuming these back‑to‑back 16‑hour days don’t push me further behind. Wednesday is set aside for rest, and Thursday I hope to return refreshed and resume blog work.

Support Options

I truly appreciate all of your support. If you’d like to help keep things going, Patreon and the UNB store are great places to start. Even better: use our affiliate links—they give you a discount, and we receive a small commission. It’s a win-win.

Have a great week, and I’ll talk to you soon.