The Dylan Gemelli Podcast

Episode #63: The TRUTH about Testosterone Injections (TRT)! Do you truly need TRT? Is TRT cheating? Do women need testosterone?
Host: Dylan Gemelli
Date: November 1, 2025

Episode Overview

In this solo episode, Dylan Gemelli dives deep into the truth behind testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), aiming to dispel myths, clarify misconceptions, and answer common questions about who truly needs TRT, its potential drawbacks, and whether it's “cheating.” Dylan also tackles the important topic of testosterone’s role for women, explaining the hormonal nuances for both genders. The episode is practical, honest, and informed by Dylan’s experience in fitness and hormone health, delivering straightforward, actionable guidance.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Polarization and Misunderstanding of TRT

Timestamp: 05:12-07:55

• TRT is one of the most misunderstood and polarizing treatments in health and fitness.
• Many people, including those in their 20s and women, believe they need TRT without sufficient cause.
• Quote: “Unless you have a severe hypogonadal condition... there's something wrong with you where you're just not producing enough testosterone... you probably don't need TRT.” — Dylan Gemelli (07:55)

2. Myths About TRT: One-Way Decision

Timestamp: 08:00-11:05

• TRT is a lifelong, often irreversible commitment; natural production can be permanently suppressed.
• Some believe TRT can be used for short-term gains (“I'll just do this for a little while”), but stopping may not restore natural levels.
• Quote: “Your body forgets how to produce testosterone on its own once you start filling it full of exogenous testosterone.” — Dylan (08:54)

3. Age, Steroid Use, and Fertility Concerns

Timestamp: 11:06-16:30

• Using TRT or anabolic steroids too young can disrupt hormonal development and lower quality of life.
• Early, unnecessary use can permanently damage the body’s ability to produce testosterone and restrict fertility.
• Dylan shares personal regrets and the impact on his ability to have children.
• Quote: “When you use steroids or testosterone too young, you are setting yourself up for extreme failure and low quality of life.” — Dylan (12:22)
• Memorable Moment: Dylan reflects on not being able to have children and the unforeseen impact:
  “It makes it a lot more difficult. And you think in your head, oh, I never want to have kids... then you meet the woman that changes your life...” — Dylan (13:50)

4. Health Risks and Considerations

Timestamp: 16:31-22:01

• While properly-used TRT can be safe, there are risks: heart issues, prostate problems, blood pressure, and estrogen imbalances.
• Overweight individuals or those with family histories of such issues must be extra cautious.

5. Recognizing Symptoms of Low Testosterone

Timestamp: 22:02-24:15

• Symptoms include: fatigue, lack of focus, low libido, difficulty losing weight, and inability to gain muscle.
• These are indicators, but not sole proof, of low testosterone.

6. The Real Role of TRT: Not a Cheat Code

Timestamp: 24:15-28:00

• TRT is often mistaken as a performance enhancer that gives users unfair advantage, especially in sports or aging.
• Quote: “Is taking thyroid for a thyroid problem cheating? Is getting glasses for bad eyesight cheating? If you have low testosterone and you’re taking testosterone—no, it is NOT cheating.” — Dylan (36:25)
• Important Note: TRT restores normal, age-appropriate levels—not superhuman ones—if prescribed and used responsibly.

7. Testing, Misdiagnosis, and Proper Evaluation

Timestamp: 28:01-32:12

• Many clinics hastily prescribe TRT; Dylan advises thorough testing, including free testosterone and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG).
• Underlying issues (e.g., lifestyle, stress, diet) could be the true culprits.
• Quote: “You need high level endocrinologists... not just general practitioners... who will take a deeper look into you.” — Dylan (30:12)

8. Alternative Approaches Before TRT

Timestamp: 32:13-35:10

• Sometimes lifestyle changes, diet improvement, stress reduction, and natural supplements can restore healthy testosterone levels.
• TRT should be a last resort after all other methods are exhausted.

9. Women's Health and Testosterone

Timestamp: 35:11-40:55

• Women do produce and need testosterone, but in smaller amounts; imbalance can impact mood, libido, and general wellness.
• Causes for low levels in women: menopause, obesity, stress, overexercise, hormonal contraceptives, and poor diet.
• Quote: “Women need way, way, way less [testosterone] than men, but there has to be a balance and it’s completely necessary.” — Dylan (37:24)
• Progesterone balance is also key for female health.

10. “Is TRT Cheating?”

Timestamp: 40:56-44:40

• Using TRT to correct a diagnosed deficiency is not cheating. Abuse or use for supraphysiological enhancement is.
• Analogy with other medical treatments: Medication for illness is not 'cheating,' it's treatment.
• Quote: “It’s only cheating if you’re using way too much to enhance your performance levels... If your body needs it, in no way, shape or form is that cheating.” — Dylan (42:36)

11. Final Thoughts & Guidance

Timestamp: 44:41-end

• Seek expert guidance, use credible clinics, and don’t self-medicate.
• Don’t be swayed by myths, hearsay, or superficial “quick fixes.”
• Memorable Closing: “I’ll only tell you what you need to hear, and I feel like that’s the only way to really help people... there’s a real specific need for a lot of different things out there, but a lot can be taken care of with the right approach first.” — Dylan (45:56)
• Dylan encourages audience engagement and constructive feedback.

Notable Quotes

• “Your body forgets how to produce testosterone on its own once you start filling it full of exogenous testosterone.” — Dylan Gemelli (08:54)
• “When you use steroids or testosterone too young, you are setting yourself up for extreme failure and low quality of life.” — Dylan (12:22)
• “Is taking thyroid for a thyroid problem cheating? Is getting glasses for bad eyesight cheating? If you have low testosterone and you’re taking testosterone—no, it is NOT cheating.” — Dylan (36:25)
• “Women need way, way, way less [testosterone] than men, but there has to be a balance and it’s completely necessary.” — Dylan (37:24)
• “It’s only cheating if you’re using way too much to enhance your performance levels... If your body needs it, in no way, shape or form is that cheating.” — Dylan (42:36)
• “I’ll only tell you what you need to hear, and I feel like that’s the only way to really help people.” — Dylan (45:56)

Key Timestamps

• 05:12: TRT misconceptions and the importance of medical necessity
• 08:54: Life-altering aspect of TRT
• 13:50: Fertility and long-term consequences
• 28:01: The pitfalls of “TRT clinics” and the need for proper testing
• 36:25: Is TRT “cheating” in health, fitness, and sport?
• 37:24: Testosterone’s role in female health
• 42:36: Distinguishing legitimate TRT from abuse
• 45:56: Dylan’s philosophy on honesty and helping listeners

Episode Tone & Style

Dylan’s approach is empathic, direct, and based on practical expertise. He maintains a conversational, no-nonsense tone, frequently referencing his real-world experience while cautioning listeners against hasty decisions and misinformation.

Summary Takeaways

• TRT is a powerful, often misunderstood tool— not a shortcut or casual supplement.
• Only pursue TRT after thorough evaluation of symptoms, lab work, and lifestyle factors under specialist care.
• Both men and women can suffer from testosterone imbalances; diagnosis and treatment must be individualized.
• Using TRT to restore health is not “cheating;” abuse for enhancement is.
• Prioritize balanced lifestyle changes and professional guidance over quick fixes or media-driven myths.

For further information or requests, Dylan invites feedback and topic suggestions via email or Instagram.