Nando

Q: Nandoism.com is an amazing platform for gay and straight singles. To what do you attribute the popularity and continued success of your brand?

The brand itself is sexless. It's not about being Gay or straight--it's about relationships issues. The majority of my readers are straight females -- 85%; that's a whole lotta vagina on my site! My blog consists of tips, advice and personal stories in dating that anyone can relate to. We've all been dumped, stood up, celebrated a great date, cried over a bad one--anyone who dates goes through the same crap--unless you're Bristol Palin--that chick has her own set of drama!

I did have another female blogger say to me a year ago--"I'd read your blog, but I'm a straight female, what would I ever learn from a Gay man on relationships?" Fast-forward to today, she's still single--I'm not. Maybe she should come back?

I'm a dating, sex and relationship blogger who just happens to be Gay. And yes, Gay is capitalized. Besides, I'm Mexican too--and who doesn't love a Mexican?


Q: You are a serious social media guru. Has going public helped or hurt your love life?

It's funny you mention that, I just had a friend who YouTubed his "I'm single again confession" after he broke up with his boyfriend--they dated for two months and I thought--wow, he had to go public with it because he had been so open about it on his blog. And the thought frightened me a bit because I had never thought about that part of social media.

I slowly introduced my readers to my boyfriend--whom you met and said--and I quote, "Oh my God, You're hot!" when we went out on our first date. It really was an intense evening filled with sparks, nerves and lots of laughter. Readers have followed our relationship as it grows. And it's real--I write about our fights--only if there's a lesson to them--my blog isn't a "here's my relationship take a peek inside" but more of a "Damn it, I screwed up again; learn from me and don't repeat the same mistake."

When we go to events--people want to meet him, so for him it's a new limelight that he's so not comfortable with nor do I think he'll get used to--which is the mark of a good man, in my opinion. Why? Because I don't like sharing the spotlight. Did I say that out loud?


Q: We understand you have a book underway. Can you tell us a little bit more about it?

The book is all about Gayships--the relationship between a straight woman and her Gay. It's a straight forward guide book on how to pick your Gay from the 9 types of Gays that are out there. It's going to change the world--or at least my bank account.


Q: How have your Mexican roots influenced your passion for life and love?

I was adopted at birth. I was three hours old when I was illegally crossed into Texas, where my adoptive parents were waiting for me. So being Mexican is where it all started. It allows me the freedom to do and say what I want. But it took time to get there--because we were taught to not have a voice. We were supposed to "just be happy" with what we were given, in any situation. I understand where that fear comes from and I see it in my own boyfriend--he's Mexican as well. But there comes a time when you come into your own and you discover your voice and baby, when you do--there's no turning back. We are a passionate people and that drives my every move, from work, play and love.


Q: Give three reasons why every woman needs a gay man for a best friend?
I can give you 12, but I'll start with the three main ones. A Gay will be there for his girl no matter what. There is no time reference in a gayship, it's all or nothing. I've been "gaying" for my girl Cris for over 26 years and when she calls, I answer.

A Gay will not judge. Women judge each other nonstop. From, the clothes you wear to the 3 lbs you just gained. Not to say a Gay won't set you straight--no pun intended--when you need your ass kicked. But there is a difference between a little tough love and being judged.

There's no competition with your Gay. Girlfriends will rip each other apart--I know, I see it all the time. In fact, when you turn your back, a woman will whisper something about you ASAP! It's fun to watch actually, I just had my cable disconnected, cause honey, I get all the drama I need just by hanging out at blogger events! Put five women bloggers in a room together and watch the claws come out! Who needs Cablevision for that?


Q: You offer some pretty clever beauty advice. Can you give our male readers some tips on manscaping?

Take it from Nike and "just do it"! Especially if you have back hair. Back hair shouldn't exist in today's time. There was a need for it originally, to keep warm in the the caveman days but it's 2010, that's what your space heater is for, not your back!

Q: What about gay dating ideas for dummies?

Gays, stop trying so hard to find Mr. Right. Focus on your career, nourish your talents, and save your money. Mr. Right will come along when you stop looking.


Q: What are 3 tell-tale signs that a man you are dating is gay?
I'm taking this from a guest post featured on Nandoism.com

1.  If he drinks martinis he’s gay.
2.  If the martini is an exotic fruit he’s SUPER gay.
3.  If he wears thongs and isn’t a professional stripper, he’s gay.


Q: How can women get over their phobias and learn how to embrace the penis?

I don't think they can. Sorry. You either love the penis or you don't. Same goes for Miracle Whip.


Q: Secret spots to meet men or women in NYC if you are not yet out of the closet?

Good Lord, just stepping out of your door you meet Gays. The trick is to have good gaydar--which I never had. My gaydar is so bad--that I'd have to ask during sex, "So, are you Gay?" We're everywhere, if you really want a closeted Gay, try a Catholic Church.


Q: Any other words of wisdom?
Men, when it comes to love--use your head, not your pee-pees!