Tag Archive for: Damona Hoffman

Matchmaker, Matchmaker & Signs of Interest

“When will I know they’re the one?” It’s the question that’s launched a thousand rom-coms and kept countless singles tossing and turning at night. Along with its equally anxiety-inducing cousins: “What if I’m missing the red flags?” and “Is it too soon to get physical?”

Lucky for us, this week’s episode brings back a true love expert who’s helped thousands find their perfect match. Celebrity matchmaker Aleeza Ben Shalom steps away from her starring role on Netflix’s Jewish Matchmaking to share some serious advice about modern dating – including some unconventional wisdom from her new book “Matchmaker, Matchmaker: Find Me a Love That Lasts.”

Ready to challenge everything you think you know about finding lasting love? Aleeza’s got some surprising insights that might just revolutionize your dating game. Plus, stick around for our Dear Damona segment where we decode the signs that someone’s truly interested in you and talk about dating a co-worker.

(2:14) Meet Aleeza Ben Shalom

Since her last appearance on Dates & Mates, Aleeza Ben Shalom has taken the matchmaking world by storm. 

As the star of Netflix’s Jewish Matchmaking and author of “Matchmaker, Matchmaker: Find Me a Love That Lasts,” she’s connected with over 20,000 people worldwide, from Australia to Argentina, sharing her unique approach to finding lasting love.

Why You Should Date Them Till You Hate Them  (4:02) 

Don’t let first impressions fool you! Aleeza’s famous dating philosophy challenges our quick-judgment culture. 

That little thing bothering you on date one might be meaningless compared to the amazing connection you could discover by date five. 

Aleeza explains when to keep going and when it’s truly time to say goodbye.

The Love-Building Power of Keeping Your Hands to Yourself  (14:42) 

Get ready for Aleeza’s most controversial rule: the “Five Date Challenge” of no physical contact. 

This isn’t just about restraint – it’s about building magnetic attraction and genuine connection. 

She reveals why breaking the touch barrier too soon might be sabotaging your chances at lasting love.

The Secret Mathematical Formula for Relationship Success (21:06) 

Love isn’t all mystery and magic – sometimes it’s about doing the math. 

Aleeza breaks down why shared Netflix preferences matter less than shared values, and explains her fascinating formula for calculating true compatibility. 

Spoiler alert: you need at least 70% alignment in the areas that really count.

 

Dating By Numbers: The 5-5-5 Rule That Changes Everything (31:04) 

Time to revolutionize your dating strategy with Aleeza’s game-changing framework: five dates, five hours max per date, and never more than five days between meetings. 

This isn’t about playing games – it’s about building unstoppable momentum toward real connection.

Connect with Aleeza:

(40:20)  Dear Damona: Dating at Work & Reading the Signs of True Interest

Instagram DM from Mor:

I work at a high tech company and there’s a colleague I’m interested in, but I’m not sure if he feels the same way. I’d like to explore how to approach this in a way that would help me understand if he’s interested, and possibly suggest meeting up if it feels right. 

Second, there’s a guy I see sometimes at the office gym. He seems much younger than me, around 27 or 28, and he used to glance my way quite often, but lately not as much. I’m wondering if I should do something to see if there’s potential there, or if I’m just imagining things. How could I better understand if someone is interested in me?

 I’d really appreciate your guidance on both situations.

Do you have questions? Damona has the answers! Don’t forget you can submit your dating and relationship questions for our Dear Damona segment on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook, or leave us a voicemail or text to 424-246-6255, and hear Damona’s answers live in a future episode!

Dear Damona: Got Ghosted & Romance Reimbursement

The holidays are arriving, bringing cozy vibes, family gatherings, and those inevitable dating questions. 

Whether you’re bracing for Aunty Sally’s “Why are you still single?” or wondering if you should bring your new fling to the holiday party, this week’s Dear Damona episode is here to help make your season merry, bright, and drama-free.

(00:25) Dear Damona 

Do you have questions? Damona has the answers! Submit your dating and relationship questions on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook, or leave a voicemail or text to 424-246-6255, and hear Damona’s answers in a future episode!

When Chemistry Goes Cold (02:01)

After reading “F the Fairy Tale,” Annie challenged her usual dating patterns and found herself in an emotionally fulfilling relationship. But despite having what she calls “the best boyfriend she’s ever had,” something crucial is missing. 

“He is a very good man and probably the best boyfriend I’ve ever had…but after seven months, I should really be feeling something physical, and there is not. We barely ever even kiss.”

The Silent Treatment Strikes at Four Months (07:58) 

When carefully planned Monday meetups suddenly turn into radio silence, one NYC dater finds himself ghosted after building what seemed like a solid connection. 

“We’ve gotten close and we’ve taken a vacation together, spent multiple nights together…I’ve texted and called twice. No response. Clearly, there’s wrongdoing on both sides, but I can’t be wrong in thinking – Ghosting? You ghosted me after four months?”

Taking the Plunge in the Triathlon Club (16:24)

The endorphins are flowing, and the singles are plentiful, but one athlete wonders if mixing romance with her training group could lead to a winning combination or a workout gone wrong. 

“There are a lot of singles in this club, but no one seems to be asking people out…If there are guys in the group I’m interested in, how can I go about breaking the ice?”

When Gender Roles Crash the Perfect Date (23:55) 

Instant connection…flowing conversation…everything seemed perfect – until a dinner reservation revealed a clash of values that had one dater questioning the whole relationship.

 “She clarified that a man should pay for the dates in the early stages of dating because that’s a man’s job. This bugged me. I like balance in any relationship…That fundamental value difference never left my head.”

Lauren Francis and Damona Hoffman on Dates & Mates podcast to discuss first dates and love

First Date Debate & Commitment Phobe

That pivotal first date – it’s so much more than just a casual hang or nice dinner (actually, skip the dinner date – we’ll tell you why). 

This week, we explore those nerve-wracking moments that could be the portal to the next entire phase of your life. After all, you might be sitting across from someone who’ll one day share your future.

But even when first dates don’t end in sparks, they shape our dating journey and teach us about ourselves. And here’s the good news – with the right preparation, those first-date jitters can transform into pure magic.

Love and relationship expert Lauren Frances joins Damona to reveal when a first date really begins (hint: it’s not when you think) and how to gracefully wrap one up when it’s just not clicking.

Plus, in our Dear Damona segment, we tackle this week’s question: “Everything is going great with my match, but I am still struggling with the idea of commitment.”

(2:31) Meet Lauren Frances

Author of the internationally acclaimed bestseller “Dating, Mating and Manhandling: The Ornithological Guide to Men,” Lauren’s expert advice has graced the screens of Bravo, Extra, VH1, Oxygen, NBC, KTLA, and Fox. 

Through her signature “Romance Camps” and Love Magnet Makeovers, she’s helped countless clients transform their dating lives.

lauren frances and damona hoffman talk first dates and love on the Dates & Mates Podcast

Your First Date Starts Before You Meet (5:53) 

Think your first date begins when you meet for drinks? Think again! 

Lauren reveals why your initial text exchange might be more crucial than you realize, and the surprising reason she insists all her clients make one specific move before meeting in person.

The Enthusiasm Gap: Why You’re Not Getting Second Dates (20:37) 

“A man that’s trying to impress you is impressed with you. A man that’s not trying to impress you is not very impressed with you.” 

Lauren reveals why playing it too cool might be freezing your dating prospects. 

Plus, learn the simple adjustment that helped one of her clients find her future husband on her very next date.

Hotel Lobbies vs. Starbucks: Location Matters (12:18) 

Choosing the right venue could make or break your first impression on a date.

Lauren and Damona break down which date spots send the right signals and which ones might be sabotaging your romance before it begins

Ghost-Proofing Your Love Life (28:59) 

“You are a romantic lifestyle brand, whether you know it or not.” 

Lauren explains why modern dating is like going viral on TikTok – it’s all about creating that “stickiness” factor that makes people want to stay connected. 

Her strategies for standing out in the endless options of today’s dating scene will change how you think about making meaningful connections.

Connect with Lauren:

(40:20) Dear Damona, Help Me!

Email from Anonymous:

Hi Damona, I love your podcast and your book. I’ve used your book, F the Fairy Tale, as a framework for my dating process. Thank you so much. 

All right, so here’s a question. While the early stages of dating go really well for me when something starts to become a real potential relationship, it gets kind of scary, and I have a mini freak-out. I noticed a lot of the advice you provide centers around the early stages and first dates. Could you please offer some advice for those in the later stages of the process? What if someone meets all of our criteria and we get along well, but we’re feeling overwhelmed with fear and anxiety?

After applying Damona’s framework for a couple of months, I ended up with someone who fits all three of my criteria and does not have my one deal breaker. We get along great, and things are going well. We’ve been seeing each other about twice a week for a couple of months now, but I’m still having trouble with the idea of committing and entering a serious relationship, though that is what I want. Funnily enough, I now feel much more lost without a roadmap now that I’m getting the thing I wanted.

Do you have questions? Damona has the answers! Don’t forget you can submit your dating and relationship questions for our Dear Damona segment on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook, or leave us a voicemail or text to 424-246-6255, and hear Damona’s answers live in a future episode!

Attachment Styles Revisited & Married Too Young

Feeling like your emotional baggage is weighing down your love life? 

We’ve all got some baggage weighing us down when it comes to dating – from stylish little clutches to oversized trunks stuffed with past experiences. While some of us try to sneak our baggage through security unnoticed, the truth is: at some point in every relationship, we’ll need to open those bags and sort through what’s inside.

Join us for an eye-opening conversation with renowned psychologist Dr. Alfiee as we unpack the complexities of modern dating and mental health. Dr. Alfiee shares game-changing perspectives that will transform how you think about emotional wellness in dating. (She even had Damona tearing up – but don’t worry, the mascara stayed intact!)

Then, stay tuned for this week’s Dear Damona, where we help a listener navigate the dating scene after a marriage that started too young and lasted too long. Is it ever too late for a fresh start? (Spoiler alert: absolutely not!)

(2:10) Meet Dr. Alfiee

Meet this week’s guest: Dr. Alfiee Breland-Noble, a brilliant psychologist and scientist whose work is transforming mental health care through her nonprofit, the AAKOMA Project.

You might know her voice from The Washington Post, CNN, The New York Times, or her insightful podcast “Couched in Color.”

But what makes her perfect for our conversation? She brings a genuine, clear-eyed perspective to mental health, culture, and relationships that will change how you think about your own emotional wellness journey.

Stop Looking for Your Other Half (5:13)

Dr. Alfiee challenges a common misconception in dating: the idea that two halves make a whole. 

“You don’t want half a partner,” she explains. “You want two whole partners coming together to make a whole relationship.” 

This means showing up as your complete self rather than expecting someone else to complete you.

Are You Really “Avoidant” – or Just Adapting? (17:52)

While attachment styles are trending in dating advice, Dr. Alfiee offers a fresh perspective: our patterns aren’t just shaped by our parents but by our entire community – including extended family, cultural background, and early experiences.

What might look like “avoidant” behavior could actually be a healthy adaptation to specific cultural or family dynamics.

The Mental Health Conversation: When and How? (21:20)

When it comes to dating someone managing their mental health, Dr. Alfiee emphasizes looking at the whole picture.

If someone trusts you enough to share their mental health journey, that’s often a sign of a strong foundation. 

The key isn’t the diagnosis – it’s how they manage it.

Moving Your Trauma to the Top Shelf (34:48)

Dr. Alfiee shares a powerful metaphor for healing: imagine your trauma as a book on a shelf. 

At first, it’s on the bottom shelf, easily within reach. As you heal, that book moves higher and higher. 

While the book never disappears, it becomes less accessible – you’re in control of when you take it down.

Dr. Alfiee’s Real Talk

  • Dating isn’t easy, no matter what social media tells you.
  • You can’t skip the self-work and expect relationship success.
  • Trust your gut – but make sure you’ve done the work to understand what your gut is really telling you.

Connect with Dr. Alfiee:

(41:04) Dear Damona, Help Me!

 An email from a listener named Rebecca:

Dear Damona, 2024 has been the year of me. I want to make a purposeful decision about finding a relationship. I’m about to finish your newest book, so I’m off to a great start.

I want to include dating apps and organic meetings in my plan. However, I really have no idea where a 60-ish guy hangs out. Suggestions? I married too young and stayed too long, so I’m really out of the loop. Bars, cooking classes, the local YMCA? Thanks. Can’t wait to hear back from you.

Do you have questions? Damona has the answers! Don’t forget you can submit your dating and relationship questions for our Dear Damona segment on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook, or leave us a voicemail or text to 424-246-6255, and hear Damona’s answers live in a future episode!

Dear Damona: Have Match, Won’t Travel & Disappearing Profiles

Fall is in full swing, cuffing season is here, and Thanksgiving is just around the corner. Whether you’re navigating long-distance connections, staying safe while online dating, or figuring out how to take your dating game to the next level, this week’s Dear Damona episode has you covered.

We’re dedicating the whole show to your most pressing dating dilemmas and relationship questions as we head into the holiday season. From timing intimacy to challenging gender roles, we’re diving deep into the questions that matter most to you.

(00:25) Dear Damona 

Do you have questions? Damona has the answers! Submit your dating and relationship questions on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook, or leave a voicemail or text to 424-246-6255, and hear Damona’s answers in a future episode!

Love Beyond Borders (1:43)

Adrian’s dating app experience has been surprisingly wonderful – except for one geographic challenge that keeps getting in the way. 

“Dating sites in the last two years have been wonderful – I’ve made friends, had exciting dates, and even a relationship for a couple of years. The dilemma for me has been my location and the willingness of men to travel. I’m willing to travel to meet them, but of course, that can be tricky. Is there a specific dating site that I should use for this situation?”

When Digital Footprints Fade (10:55)

Sue’s dating detective work uncovered something fishy – between mysteriously disappearing profiles and stories that don’t quite add up, she’s stumbled into a digital dating mystery that’ll make you think twice about your next match. 

She asks: “Dear Damona, recently it seems that a few of the men I’ve met online dating on Bumble have removed their online profiles as soon as we share phone numbers. Do you have any data or insights about this behavior?” Sue shares concerning details about mismatched accents and overlapping life stories between matches that raised red flags.

The Perfect Moment (18:47)

When it comes to intimacy, timing is everything. But who decides when the clock strikes “right”?

This listener’s bedroom boundaries bring up the age-old question of when to take things to the next level.

Our anonymous listener asked, “Do you have a recommendation for when two people who have started dating can sleep together? Or what to say if my date proposes we sleep together and I feel it’s too soon?”

Rewriting the Dating Rulebook (24:39)

Ladies first? More like ladies waiting! 

Why are women still sitting around waiting for men to make the first move? Time to shake up those dusty dating rulebooks! 

Erin writes: “Do you know of any couples or of any relationships in which the woman asked the man out, or the woman was the initiator? It’s a follow-up to the point where you have encouraged women to ask men out. Some people like to think that the world is slowly changing; however, at the same time, a part of me doubts it, as in I just see it as men always being stuck with that gender role.”

 

The Knot’s News & Gift Glitch

What Singles REALLY Want in 2024!

Ever wonder what your potential dates are really looking for? Or if your relationship expectations match up with everyone else’s?

The Knot just released their 2024 Relationship and Intimacy study, revealing fascinating insights about how singles find love, what they’re actually looking for, and those persistent deal breakers that shape our dating decisions.

Get ready to decode modern romance with Esther Lee, deputy editor of The Knot. She’s breaking down the numbers on everything from meet-cutes to marriage, and some of these findings might surprise you!

Plus, don’t miss our Dear Damona segment, where we tackle an awkward gift-giving situation. When is it too soon for intimate presents? 

(1:34) Meet Esther Lee

Esther Lee is the deputy editor of The Knot, leading content on The Knot Wellness with a focus on financial, relationship, and mental well-being. 

She oversees The Knot’s travel vertical, including honeymoons, destination weddings, and bachelorette parties, along with overarching features and trends.

The Knot Esther Lee 2024 Relationship study with Damona Hoffman on Date & Mates podcast discussing relationship and dating trends

The Comfort Connection (05:13)

The Knot’s 2024 study challenges everything you thought you knew about attraction and chemistry. What tops the list of desirable qualities might surprise you – and it’s not what most dating coaches are teaching!

As Esther notes, “There has to be this openness and this lightness, almost like you’re showing up as yourself and being comfortable with who you are.” Find out why authenticity might be your best dating strategy.

Love Offline (17:52)

Dating apps aren’t the only path to partnership. 

The study reveals unexpected ways couples are meeting in 2024, including some surprising new trends in the gaming world.

Plus, discover why traditional meet-cutes might be making a comeback and how Gen Z is revolutionizing the dating scene.

Married Life Myths & Reality (21:20)

Think you know how marriage changes relationships? The study’s findings about intimacy patterns before and after marriage might change your mind.

Esther shares insights from a recently married team member who discovered unexpected shifts in their relationship dynamics post-wedding. 

Learn why “putting a ring on it” might transform more than just your legal status.

The Distance Dance (34:48)

When it comes to deal breakers, distance tops many singles’ lists. 

But what exactly counts as “long-distance”? For some New Yorkers, it’s crossing boroughs; for others, it’s crossing oceans.

Plus, discover the other relationship red flags that made the list and why they might matter more than you think.

Connect with Esther and The Knot:

(39:19) Dear Damona, Help Me!

Email from a listener named Cathy:

This is a little off the beaten path, but my 17-year-old grandson is dating a lovely young woman, and she recently had a birthday for a birthday gift. 

He bought her a Victoria’s Secret bra. She interpreted this as him wanting much more out of the relationship, and she promptly slapped him in his face and stormed off.

I gotta say, I love the gal’s chutzpah since there was certainly no ambiguity in her reaction. Any ideas on how he might navigate this precarious situation? 

Do you have questions? Damona has the answers! Don’t forget you can submit your dating and relationship questions for our Dear Damona segment on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook, or leave us a voicemail or text to 424-246-6255, and hear Damona’s answers live in a future episode!

 

Dating Horror Stories & The Flirt Coach

This Halloween, we’re embracing the ghosting, the ghouls, and the downright ridiculous tales of love gone wrong.

On Dates & Mates this week, we’re diving into our annual Halloween tradition with a collection of dating horror stories that will make you laugh, gasp, and hopefully help you to avoid your own awkward dates.

We’ve got five cringy  listener stories that prove sometimes the scariest part of dating isn’t the ghosting – it’s what happens when you actually meet! Plus, my guest  and I share our expert tips on how to avoid becoming the star of your own dating horror story! 

To help dissect these strange and unusual encounters and offer some love advice, we have Benjamin Camras, The Flirt Coach, joining us. 

So dim the lights (but skip the candy corn – we’ll die on this hill), and get ready for some haunting tales of dating gone wrong.

(1:54) Benjamin Camras, The Flirt Coach 

From self-described introvert to social media sensation, Benjamin Camras (who introduces himself proudly as “the gay Libra”) is spreading “BFE” (Big Flirt Energy) across the digital world. 

He hosts the Flirtations Flirtcast podcast and specializes in helping fellow introverts and the socially anxious find their flirting groove with more confidence, clarity, and fun.

Your Dating Horror Stories  (05:13) 

Join Damona and Benjamin as they dissect these strange tales:

  • Blindsided by a Blind Date (7:08) 

When Amanda finally decided to dive back into dating, she thought a simple movie date with Steve – an ex-military geek – would be a safe bet. 

  • The Vegetarian Variation (15:28)

When a late-night Tim Hortons run in Canada revealed an unexpected plot twist about dietary preferences, our listener learned that sometimes what you see isn’t exactly what you get. 

  • The Creepy Car Concert (19:48)

 What happens when you take a chance on an older, handsome suitor? Our listener found out the hard way that age doesn’t always equal maturity.

  • The Deskside Date (30:10) 

When Covid forced dating to go virtual, our listener dolled up with wine in hand for what she hoped would be a romantic Zoom connection. Instead, she found herself starring in an impromptu episode of “The Office.” 

  • The Freudian Movie Man (40:07) 

When a second date to see “Inside Out” turned inside-out, our listener found herself beside a man who came prepared with everything. 

Connect with Benjamin:

Dear Damona, Help Me!

Do you have questions? Damona has the answers! Don’t forget you can submit your dating and relationship questions for our Dear Damona segment on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook, or leave us a voicemail or text to 424-246-6255, and hear Damona’s answers live in a future episode!

 

Dating Anxiety & Financial Therapy

Money matters can make or break relationships, but they don’t have to be a source of stress.

Financial issues often top the list of relationship stressors, creating tension and misunderstandings between couples. But what if money could actually strengthen your bond instead of straining it?

This week on Dates & Mates, we’re flipping the script on financial conversations and exploring how they can build trust and improve communication with your partner.

Joining us is Erika Wasserman, known as “Your Financial Therapist” and one of only 70 certified financial therapists in the US. She’s here to help destigmatize money talk in relationships and offer insights for both couples and singles navigating the financial aspects of dating.

Plus, don’t miss our Dear Damona segment, where we tackle this tricky question: “I have social anxiety. Do I need to focus on making more friends before pursuing a romantic relationship?” Stick around for some surprising advice on balancing social and romantic pursuits.

(1:54) Erika Wasserman 

Erica Wasserman is the CEO of Your Financial Therapist. She’s the creator of the Let’s Talk Finances Financial Wellness Conversation Cards, which allows people to explore the topic of money with thought-provoking questions. 

She earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the University of Florida and a graduate certificate in financial therapy from Kansas State University, making her one of only 70 certified financial therapists here in the country.

Show Me the Money Talk (05:13)

Cha-ching! Is that the sound of love or your piggy bank breaking? Financial counselor Erika Wasserman says it could be both – in a good way!

She flips the script on money talks, turning budget battles into bonding sessions. Plus, she’s got the lowdown on navigating those awkward “who pays?” moments in the dating game.

Bling or Bank: The Dating Dilemma (17:52)

Think your date’s designer watch spells ‘jackpot’? Not so fast! Erika reveals there’s more to wealth than meets the eye, and it’s not about flash and cash.

“Wealth is done in secret,” she shares. It’s the behind-the-scenes stuff – property, stocks, and personal growth. So, next time you swipe, ask yourself: Are you after arm candy or someone who’s rich in life’s real treasures?

Family Ties and Money Lies (21:20)

Your money habits didn’t appear out of thin air! Erika breaks down our financial DNA: background, religion, and experiences. It’s a wild mix that shapes our cash attitudes.

Picture this: sneaking shopping bags past Dad as a kid. Sound familiar? These money memories stick around, influencing our adult spending sprees and savings struggles.

But here’s the kicker – we’re often clueless about cash chat, leading to relationship drama. 

Playing Your Cards Right (34:48)

Who knew money talk could be a party game? 

Erika’s “Let’s Talk Finances” cards turn budget chats into a blast. Forget boring spreadsheets – we’re talking juicy questions like “Splurge on stuff or adventures?” and “What’s your guilty pleasure purchase?”

It’s not just fun and games, though. Erika calls it “financial intimacy” – fancy talk for getting cozy with your partner’s money mindset. 

She also has a Divorce Edition for those navigating the financial waters of divorce. As Erika quips, “If you don’t do the couples edition, you’re going to need the divorce edition.” 

 

Connect with Erika:

(42:00) Dear Damona: Help Me!!

Instagram voice memo from Hayden:

So, a question –  I’ve got really bad social anxiety. 

I’m way better than I used to be, but I still don’t have many friends, and I’m bad with relationships just in general. Plantonic or romantic. 

So should I work on friendships and whatnot first, or try something out with romantic relationships?

Do you have questions? Damona has the answers! Don’t forget you can submit your dating and relationship questions for our Dear Damona segment on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook, or leave us a voicemail or text to 424-246-6255, and hear Damona’s answers live in a future episode!

 

Coaching Session: Light Bulb Moment

Are you ready to transform your love life? 

As we approach the end of the year, we naturally reflect on what we want for our future. For many of you, that’s a relationship. 

But you might be wondering: how does Damona get people like YOU from where you’re at into a committed partnership? How is coaching DIFFERENT from listening to this podcast or following her on social media?

Today’s episode is special because you get a front-row seat inside a real coaching session with Michelle, a prior client who was pregnant and becoming a solo mom by choice when she took Damona’s course two years ago. 

You’ll witness firsthand how we go from confusion to clarity, from frustration to dating success. Sit back and get ready for some real, raw, and actionable advice that could change your love life.

Single Mom to Dating Pro (05:13)

Talk about a plot twist! Michelle dove into dating coaching while navigating early pregnancy. Who knew impending motherhood could spark such a dating revolution?

There’s no “perfect” time to seek love – sometimes, the most unexpected moments lead to the greatest growth.

As she balances the excitement of a new chapter with the search for a partner, we see how self-discovery and dating can go hand in hand.

Navigating the Dating Pool (14:11)

“I’m getting more matches because I’m more curious about people, but I’d say the people who I’m swiping on, who I’m both curious and excited about, that number is much less,” Michelle reflects on her dating experiences.

It’s all about casting a wider net and trusting your instincts! Sometimes, the perfect match might come from an unexpected place. 

There is a delicate balance between quantity and quality in the digital dating world

The Unavailable vs. The Nice Guy (21:20)

In her coaching session, Michelle found herself caught between two types of men: those who weren’t fully available and those who were almost too available. Is there a happy medium?

Damona breaks it down: “You can’t judge yourself into attraction… The attraction should build. And if it’s not building or if it’s actually decreasing, then that is your answer.” This dilemma sheds light on a common dating struggle – the quest for that elusive spark. 

Michelle’s experience prompts us to question: Are we sometimes drawn to unavailability? Do we overlook potential partners who are ready and willing?

Trusting Your Instincts (37:46)

As the session wraps up, Michelle realizes she needs to trust herself more in the dating process. But how do you silence that inner critic that says you’re doing it all wrong?

Damona encourages a mindset shift: “You have all the answers already, trust in yourself that you do. You do know what you’re doing in dating.” 

We often know more than we give ourselves credit for. The challenge lies in quieting the doubts and tuning into our inner wisdom. 

Dear Damona: Help Me!!

Do you have questions? Damona has the answers! Don’t forget you can submit your dating and relationship questions for our Dear Damona segment on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook, or leave us a voicemail or text to 424-246-6255, and hear Damona’s answers live in a future episode!

Party Of One & Longtime Crush

Going it alone and noticing the world seems to expect a whole lot from you?

“When are you settling down?” “Have you tried online dating?” – these questions are everywhere, but are we putting too much pressure on ourselves to couple up?

We all know how important it is to find love, but maybe we’re too quick to see singlehood as a problem to be solved. Then again, with shows like Love Is Blind and the Golden Bachelorette constantly bombarding us, can we catch a break?

NPR’s Life Kit founder Meghan Keane to the rescue! Meghan joins Damona this week to unpack the layers of our complicated feelings about being single and to dissect the ways that singlism could be dealt with in your own life. Plus, she shares why embracing your single life is just as important as finding a partner.

And don’t forget to stay tuned for our Dear Damona question: “I recently reconnected with a casual long-term friend. How do I figure out if he likes me without making a fool of myself?”

(2:01)  Meghan Keane

Meghan Keane is the mastermind behind NPR’s Life Kit, your go-to source for real-world wisdom on everything from budgeting to heartbreak. Fun fact: our very own Damona has appeared on several episodes of this fabulous NPR show as a host and guest. !

But wait, there’s more! Before she was dishing out life hacks, Meghan was busy making radio magic. She’s got producer cred on the mind-bending “Invisibilia” and was there from day one for the wildly popular “Ted Radio Hour.”

Now, Meghan’s taking on the ultimate solo adventure with her brand-new book, “Party of One: Be Your Own Best Partner.” It’s hot off the press and ready to revolutionize your single life!

Singlism Showdown (05:13)

“You’re too picky.” “Why aren’t you married yet?” Sound familiar? Suddenly, everyone’s an expert on your love life (or lack thereof). 

Ready for a reality check? Meghan Keane drops this truth bomb: “Singlism is basically just that, having a view of singles as being less than, marginalizing them, discriminating against them.”

Time to rethink how we’re treating our single friends – and ourselves! Because newsflash: being single doesn’t mean you’re broken, it means you’re whole all on your own.

Friendship: The Secret Sauce of Single Life (25:40) 

Think your social circle shrinks when you’re flying solo? Think again! Meghan talks about building a thriving community as a party of one.

Forget the TV drama – real-life connections are often built on the simplest of actions. Get ready for some surprising insights on how to expand your friendship circle and why it’s crucial for your happiness.

Trust that inner social butterfly! You might just discover a whole new world of connections waiting for you.

 

The ‘Party of One’ Revolution (29:39) 

Rushing to find “the one”? Hit the brakes!

Meghan’s new book, “Party of One: Be Your Own Best Partner,” is here to shake up everything you thought you knew about being single. It’s not about waiting for your life to start – it’s about living it to the fullest right now!

Discover why treating your single life like its own fabulous party could be the key to happiness, whether Prince Charming shows up or not.

 

Mind Over Dating Matter (32:33) 

Got a case of the “why am I still single” blues? You’re not alone!

Meghan shares a powerful perspective: “When you focus more on what values you’re trying to express in your life… it’s a lot kinder and healthier than being like, ‘Did I get this thing? Did I check this box?'”

Time to sort through those emotional souvenirs and decide what’s worth keeping. Meghan’s got the tools to help you rewrite your single story from tragedy to triumph.

Connect with Meghan:

Pick up “Party of One: Be Your Own Best Partner”

Website: https://meghanvkeane.com/

Instagram: @DameKeane

(44:88) Dear Damona

Email from Anonymous:

I’ve been casual friends with a guy for years, until the other day I hadn’t seen him in about five years, and we’ve exchanged texts maybe once every six months, briefly. I’ve always had a crush on him, but he was married. 

He got divorced about two years ago, and I know he’s looking to be in a relationship again. My friend saw his profile on a dating app. I reached out to him and said it had been too long, we should get dinner at, etc. it took a while to set this up, but we finally had dinner two nights ago, and everything I felt about him was reinforced.

 He’s kind, sweet, funny. We have so much in common, but I can’t tell if he’s more interested in me than usual or just being himself. He definitely wasn’t overtly flirting. 

My feeling after leaving dinner was that he is not interested in me romantically, but I’m a terrible flirt and horrible at reading signals. As we were leaving, I tried to give him an opening by saying we had to do this again soon and not to let so much time pass. And he agreed. But that was it. 

Under normal circumstances, I would just assume he wasn’t interested in me and let this go. But I so rarely meet guys I connect with and we’re both in our late 40s, so that makes it even more rare. I don’t want to just give up and walk away if there could be a chance. But I also don’t want to make a fool out of myself or embarrass this really sweet guy. Is there any advice you can give me?

Do you have questions? Damona has the answers!Don’t forget you can submit your dating and relationship questions for our Dear Damona segment on Instagram, X, TikTok, or Facebook, or leave us a voicemail or text to 424-246-6255, and hear Damona’s answers live in a future episode!

Dear Damona: Friends with Exes & Chemistry Cooler

Summer flings are fading like falling leaves, and cuffing season is right around the corner. What better time for an all-out Dear Damona extravaganza?

This week, we’re answering your burning questions. Whether you’re dealing with a suddenly chilly connection or navigating the crisp air of undefined relationships, we’ve got some cozy advice to warm your heart.

You asked about everything from the challenges of staying friends with exes to decoding mixed signals after seemingly golden dates. We explore the rich tapestry of communication styles and relationship signs that, like fall foliage, aren’t always what they appear at first glance!

Get ready for some real talk that’ll warm you up faster than a pumpkin spice latte! 

(00:25) Dear Damona 

Do you have questions? Damona has the answers! Don’t forget you can submit your dating and relationship questions for our Dear Damona segment on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook, or leave us a voicemail or text to 424-246-6255, and hear Damona’s answers live in a future episode!

IG DM from Montie (1:29)

Heyyyyy bestie!  Can you speak to expectations and how not to become jaded when your partner doesn’t take initiative like you do?  

For example, my man’s back was hurting so I took my massage gun and fixed him up without him asking.  However, whenever I’m not well, he doesn’t take that same initiative.  

I realize men think differently than women, but dang!  I’m a caretaker by nature and want to be taken care of when I’m not feeling well, too.  Too much to ask???  Thanks, mama.  Big smooches!

Email from a listener named Lydia (6:44)

 I’m having trouble moving past my feelings for emotionally unavailable people or people who moved too fast to get into a relationship as a result of me catching feelings too quickly or saying no, I’m not sure how to maintain a friendship. 

They say they want to stay friends after the fact, but then when I get told by the individuals that they are with someone now after I shared that I wanted to take it slow, it crushes me. 

Ultimately, I feel that me eliminating the friendship is the best thing to do. I know I’m self-sabotaging, but I don’t know how to be friends right now with a person dating another because it hurts so much, or friends with someone who doesn’t see me as a partner as I hoped they would.

IG DM from J (11:10)

I like very few people, but a few I would go out with again.  Unfortunately, they told me they didn’t feel any chemistry after the first date. 

I am often told that I am very attractive, charismatic, and fun. So what am I doing wrong and how does this not impact me?

Email from D (18:45)

Hey Damona, guy listener here. I only started recently and am slowly catching up.

It comes up frequently that a barometer of a man’s interest is whether they ask questions – and it’s a poor reflection when they don’t. (A favorite recent meme said, “ ‘You’re so mysterious’, says a man who has never asked you anything.”)

Reflecting on this, I realized I used to not ask many questions either. An ex-girlfriend shared how that was a “red flag” on our first date. Here’s the catch: I was VERY interested in her. In general, I’m a really inquisitive person, and remembering details about a person is almost my superpower. I just didn’t ask direct questions, more so expecting the details to come naturally in conversation.

I think it has to do with how men and women communicate differently – men don’t need to be asked – or given permission – to give their perspective. They simply jump in with it. Women, on the other hand, might need to be given more space to share, and when it’s not given, it’s taken as a slight.

Don’t get me wrong: I’m really glad this was pointed out to me, and I now actively ask more questions and have noticed the difference. I just worry that this phenomenon gets misattributed. Yes, men should be more mindful and ask more questions. But I also wonder if there’s space for women to know that it’s not always from a self-involved or uninterested place but potentially just from a difference in communication style.

This is all from anecdotes and conjecture, so I could be way off base. What do you think?

Therapy-Speak & Is it The Apps

 

Feeling like you need a psychology degree to navigate the dating scene these days? 

“Narcissist,” “trauma bonded” – these terms are everywhere, but are we going overboard with the therapy talk?

We all know how important it is to recognize the signs of a toxic relationship, but maybe we’re too quick to slap labels on every bad date. Then again, with online dating bringing strangers into our lives, we need to know what to watch out for, right?

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Kiaundra Jackson to the rescue! Kiaundra joined Damona this week to unpack the difference between truly toxic relationships and normal dating hiccups. Plus, she shares why understanding healthy relationship dynamics is just as important as spotting the bad ones.

And don’t forget to stay tuned for our Dear Damona question: “I’ve used them all, but none seem to be a good fit. Is it me or the apps?”

(1:39) Kiaundra Jackson 

Kiaundra Jackson is a licensed marriage and family therapist. You may have seen her on OWN’s TV show Love Goals or on Tubiunpacking shocking true crime stories from a psychological point of view. Kiaundra has been featured in Essence Magazine, Women’s Health, Fox, CBS, and in Forbes “Next 1000”.

Dating Dictionary Detox (05:13)

“He was toxic.” “That was triggering.”Suddenly, we’re all armchair therapists, aren’t we? These buzzwords are flying around the dating scene like confetti at a party. 

Ready for a reality check? Not every bad date is “toxic,” and overusing these terms might just be muddying the waters of your love life.

Kiaundra Jackson drops this truth bomb: “Narcissism, toxic, triggers, all of those words are often misused and overused.” Time to rethink how we’re labeling our dating experiences!

Toxic Love Alarm System (25:40) 

Think you might be in a toxic situation? Time for a relationship health check! Kiaundra spills the tea on those sneaky signs that scream, “danger ahead!”

Forget the tv drama – real-life red flags are often subtle but oh-so-important. Get ready for some truth bombs: it’s not just about obvious abuse. Sometimes, it’s that icky feeling in your gut telling you something’s off. 

Trust that inner voice! Plus, learn why your bestie might spot the toxicity before you do.

The All-Weather Love Test  (29:39) 

Rushing into romance? Hit the brakes!

Ever thought about dating someone through all four seasons before getting serious? It’s not about pumpkin spice vs. beach vibes – it’s seeing how they navigate life’s highs and lows. Talk about relationship due diligence!

Discover why watching your partner handle everything from summer BBQs to winter blues could be the ultimate compatibility test.

Emotional Baggage Bootcamp  (32:33) 

Got baggage from past relationships? Don’t we all! 

Rushing into a new relationship is like traveling with a messy suitcase – it’s gonna slow you down. Consider this your call to emotional spring cleaning. Your future self (and partner) will be doing a happy dance! 

Time to sort through those emotional souvenirs and decide what’s worth keeping. 

The Unpopular Truth About Relationships (39:12) 

Brace yourself for a hot take: relationships aren’t actually hard work. Say what? 

Yep, you heard that right. Buckle up – it’s time to challenge everything you thought you knew about making love last. 

Kiaundra’s serving up a fresh perspective that might just make your relationship feel like a breeze.

Connect with Kiaundra:

Find her on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/kiaundrajackson

Website:https://kiaundrajackson.com/

Instagram: @KiaundraJackson

(41:37) Dear Damona

DM from a listener named Nicole:

What dating apps do you recommend for a woman in her 50s? I’m 53 and have used Bumble, Match, and Hinge, but none felt great. I’m not sure if it’s me or if I’m just using the wrong apps.

Do you have questions? Damona has the answers!Don’t forget you can submit your dating and relationship questions for our Dear Damona segment on Instagram, X, TikTok, or Facebook, or leave us a voicemail or text to 424-246-6255, and hear Damona’s answers live in a future episode!