Quit Kissing Frogs: Recent Episodes
Dominique, LSW
The dating world can be rough for anyone, but particularly so for women who want something more than casual dating. Quit Kissing Frogs is a podcast exploring dating and relationships from the perspective of a therapist who’s been there herself. I'm Dominique, a Licensed Social Worker who has worked with many individuals and couples to address a diverse array of challenges, with a particular focus on romantic relationships, dating, and marriage. I want every woman out there - whether single, dating, or even married - to be able to have a better understanding of relationships and how she can meet the right match and cultivate the relationship she’s been longing for. So ladies, whether you want to meet a great guy you could settle down with, or you’ve already met the man of your dreams and now you’re trying to figure out how to build a life together, this podcast is for you. You don’t have to go it alone...but you do have to quit kissing frogs! So grab an espresso, settle in, and let’s make your love life better. For more information, check out QuitKissingFrogs.comTo submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
“40 is the new 30!”
“You can freeze your eggs!”
“Your 20s is the time to focus on your education and your career."
"You can always have children later, but these professional opportunities will only be open to you for a short while.”
Sound familiar? It’s the message that’s been preached to women for years by society at large, and often by their own (well-meaning) friends and family. Far too many women today are deluded into denying their biological reality, and as a result, many of them end up facing a lot of heartache because they believed this narrative. In today’s controversial episode, Dominique breaks down the biological realities women face in dating, including the truth about female fertility, the innate female desire for motherhood, children, and family, and the ways that women need to date differently if they wish to get married and raise a family of their own. It’s not politically correct in the slightest, but it’s an important episode for any woman in the dating world to hear.
Mentioned in today’s episode:
Interview and Discussion on “Unchosen Childlessness”
Pod: Episode #43 How Netflix’s Jewish Matchmaking Can Improve Your Love Life
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form.
If you haven’t seen Netflix’s “Jewish Matchmaking,” you’re missing out! In this new reality dating show, matchmaker Aleeza Ben Shalom helps Jewish singles who are looking for their match. Her approach to matchmaking is thoughtful and thorough, and there are some great lessons to be learned for anyone who is dating - even if you are your own matchmaker! In today’s episode, Dominique breaks down three keys to Aleeza’s matchmaking that you can apply to your own dating life to improve your chances of finding the right match for you.
Mentioned in today’s episode:
Netflix’s “Indian Matchmaking”: Episode #24 Reality Dating Shows Worth Watching (& What You Can Learn From Them)
Creating Intimacy Too Early: Episode #42 Is False Intimacy Sabotaging Your Dating Life?
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form.
Most people know that physical intimacy takes a relationship to a new level - that’s why jumping into bed with a guy on the first date is a terrible idea. But it’s easy to forget that emotional intimacy deepens a relationship, too. Far too many women are unknowingly sabotaging their relationships by getting “emotionally naked” with the men they date - often even BEFORE the first date! In this episode, you’ll learn about the different ways women allow a false sense of intimacy to build into their relationships, how doing so wrecks a woman’s dating life, and what you can do to avoid these mistakes and set yourself up for healthy relationships by cultivating real intimacy.
Mentioned in this episode:
Pod: Episode #26 The Dunning Kruger Effect in Dating
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
**Conflict is something many people dread, especially if it comes up early in a dating relationship. In reality, conflict is inevitable, and it’s also neutral - it’s HOW you handle it (and the root cause behind it) that can make conflict a bad thing. But you can handle it in a way that is constructive and improves your relationship and your bond. This is especially important early in a relationship, when you are setting the tone for your future and establishing how you communicate as a couple. In today’s episode, Dominique shares 3 key strategies that will empower any woman to handle conflict in dating and relationships in a constructive way.
Mentioned in this episode:*Body scanDeep breathingGrounding techniques* For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com**
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
How do you evaluate your dates? Oh, you don’t? Well, you ought to! First dates can bring up a lot of different feelings, and the emotional haze that follows a date can make it difficult to think clearly about things. Taking time to deliberately reflect on your date can be very illuminating, and it likely will reveal more than you think about the guy you went out with and your potential budding relationship. In turn, this clarity helps you to make better decisions in dating and move forward in a relationship with more confidence. In today’s episode, Dominique walks you through five simple questions to ask yourself after a first date to help you improve your dating life by sifting through the bad dates and douchebags more quickly, and identifying good guys and promising relationships more effectively.
Mentioned in this episode:
Pod: Episode #5 Deal-Breakers & Deal-Makers
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
Today we have another episode in the “Frog Breakdown” series. If you want to date better and meet the kind of man you truly want to be with, the first step is to quit kissing frogs…and that starts with being able to identify those “frogs” when you encounter them in dating. This series explores the different “frogs” that many women fall for and what it is about these guys that makes women spend so much of their time and emotional energy on them. Today, Dominique discusses The Guy Who Just Wants To Be In A Relationship - what makes this guy a frog, and why would a woman end up so invested in a guy who is so wrong for her? And, just as important, what should you be looking for instead?
If you didn’t catch the previous Frog Breakdown episodes, be sure to check them out!
Pod: Episode #33 Frog Breakdown: The “Nice Guy” Who Never Makes a Move
Pod: Episode # 35 Frog Breakdown: The Guy Who’s Not Actually Into You
Pod: Episode #37 Frog Breakdown: The Guy Who Wants to “Keep It Casual”
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
Narcissism is a psychological buzzword that has become much more widely discussed and recognized in recent years. Unfortunately, there’s a lot of misinformation out there, too, leading a lot of folks to misunderstand what narcissism is and struggle to recognize a true narcissist when they encounter one. Today Dominique is breaking down the narcissism myths that pop-psychology has perpetuated and explaining how to deal with narcissistic behavior. This episode will help you understand better what a narcissist is, how to spot one (along with other problematic behaviors), and how to protect yourself in dating.
Mentioned in this episode:
Pod: Episode #27 How to Set and Enforce Healthy Boundaries in Dating
Pod: Episode #5 Deal-Breakers & Deal-Makers
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
Today’s episode is the third in the “Frog Breakdown” series. If you want to date better and meet the kind of man you truly want to be with, the first step is to quit kissing frogs…and that starts with being able to identify those “frogs” when you encounter them in dating. This series explores the different “frogs” that many women fall for and what it is about these guys that makes women spend so much of their time and emotional energy on them. Today, Dominique discusses The Guy Who Wants To “Keep It Casual” - what makes this guy a frog, and why would a woman end up so invested in a guy who is so wrong for her? And, just as important, what should you be looking for instead?
If you didn’t catch the previous Frog Breakdown episodes, be sure to check them out!
Pod:Episode #33 Frog Breakdown: The “Nice Guy” Who Never Makes a Move
Pod: Episode # 35 Frog Breakdown: The Guy Who’s Not Actually Into You
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
Many people struggle with depression for a variety of reasons. And being depressed can make dating pretty difficult. The important question is - should you be dating at all if you’re depressed? The answer is nuanced, so in today’s episode, Dominique discusses the potential benefits as well as drawbacks of dating when y ou’re feeling depressed. This episode also goes over several questions to ask yourself if you’re feeling depressed to help assess whether dating is a good idea for you.
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
Referenced in this episode
Pod: Episode 28 "How To Build Confidence & Improve Your Dating Life"
Mental Health Resources
For help finding mental health support, you can contact SAMHSA's National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (1-800-662-4357). SAMHSA offers help 24/7 and can assist with finding appropriate treatment resources for you (English and Spanish).
If you are in crisis, there are resources available to help you - please reach out. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 at 800-273-8255. You can also text "HOME" to the Crisis Text Line at 741741.
Today’s episode is the second in the “Frog Breakdown” series. If you want to date better and meet the kind of man you truly want to be with, the first step is to quit kissing frogs…and that starts with being able to identify those “frogs” when you encounter them in dating. This series explores the different frogs that many women fall for and what it is about these guys that makes women spend so much of their time and emotional energy on them. Today, Dominique discusses The Guy Who’s Not Actually Into You - what makes this guy a frog, and why would a woman end up so invested in a guy who is so wrong for her? And, just as important, what should you be looking for instead?
If you didn’t catch the previous Frog Breakdown episode, be sure to check it out! Episode #33: Frog Breakdown: The “Nice Guy” Who Never Makes a Move
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
Many women find themselves disillusioned with dating apps and discouraged by their lack of success in finding good dates (let alone a good relationship). The key is that dating apps can be a valuable tool, but like any tool, you have to know how to use it effectively. Unfortunately, many women are using dating apps in a way that ends up sabotaging their efforts. Today’s podcast will cover five of the most common mistakes women make on dating apps, and the simple solutions to implement instead. With these strategies, dating apps will become less stressful and much more successful!
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
Today’s episode is the first in a series of “frog breakdowns,” where Dominique will break down the different kinds of “frogs” that women wind up with if they are not being very discerning or using good judgment. One of the biggest reasons women struggle to get what they want out of dating is that they keep “kissing frogs.” It’s all too easy to find yourself spending time and energy on guys who are not the kind of guy you actually want to be with in the long run. That’s a bad investment of your time and effort, and it only delays your ability to connect with the RIGHT guy. To break this cycle and meet the guy who is the right match for you, you’ve got to quit kissing frogs. And that starts by being able to spot a “frog” when you encounter them in the wild (aka, the real world of dating). Today, Dominique discusses the “nice guy” who never makes a move, what makes him a “frog,” and what qualities you want to be looking for instead.
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
There’s nothing like springtime - with the promise of sunshine and warmer weather on the horizon - to inspire a fresh start. While you’re decluttering your closets and Marie-Kondo-ing your kitchen, why not apply some “spring cleaning” to your dating life? Today’s podcast brings you three different ways that you can hit the “refresh” button on your dating life this spring. In this episode, Dominique gives practical suggestions that will help you put your best foot forward in dating and maximize your odds of meeting the type of guy you’ve been hoping to meet all along.
Mentioned in this episode:
Blog: 3 Tips for Dating in the Digital Era
Pod: Dating In The Digital Era
Pod: How to Build Confidence & Improve Your Dating Life
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
Is it possible to be friends with an ex? Many women find themselves trying to remain friends with their ex after a breakup, with varying degrees (and definitions) of success. But if you’re asking yourself, “Can I be friends with my ex boyfriend?” it’s safe to say that you’re asking the wrong question. In this episode, Dominique breaks down the risks and benefits of being friends with an ex, how to navigate the post-breakup dynamic, and the REAL question any woman should ask herself if she’s considering trying to maintain a friendship with an ex.
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
Most women have a general awareness of the safety concerns to be aware of in dating, but very few women actually do the right things to mitigate those risks and decrease the odds that they will end up in a dangerous situation. In this episode, Dominique covers 10 mistakes women commonly make in dating that make them more vulnerable and more likely to become a target, and the 10 things to do instead to be more aware of dangerous situations and prepared to protect yourself if things go sideways. It can be scary at first to think about the potential dangers in dating, but when when women are prepared for that and know what to do to minimize those risks and keep themselves safer, it's empowering and it allows you to enjoy dating more. This is a great episode to share with your friends, sisters, and all the ladies you know - it just may save their life.
Mentioned in this episode:
Book recommendation: The Gift of Fear
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
For many women, one of the biggest struggles in dating isn't that they can't get dates...it's that the men who are showing interest in them are not the kinds of men they want to date, let alone consider settling down with. And the kind of men they do want to date aren't showing much interest in them. Talk about frustrating! In this episode, Dominique explores the reasons why this happens for so many women, and how you can start attracting the kind of men you actually want to be with.
Mentioned in this episode:
Blog: Where Have All The Good Men Gone? (article)
Pod: Where Have All The Good Men Gone? (episode #14)
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
We all struggle with confidence from time to time, and dating is an area that tends to stir up insecurities and can make you feel your least confident. This often makes dating feel intimidating and frustrating. The good news is that it's possible to build confidence, and it's easier than you probably think! In this episode, Dominique gives you practical strategies to build confidence, including the specific steps you need to take to feel more confident in dating. No more letting your feelings of insecurity keep you from going on dates or building a healthy relationship - you can start becoming more confident today.
Mentioned in this episode:
How to Set & Enforce Healthy Boundaries in Dating (Episode #27)
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
Boundaries can be transformative in any area of life, but especially in dating. Good boundaries are particularly crucial in the early stages of dating, because those early weeks and months of dating set the tone for the future of the relationship. In today’s episode, Dominique goes over the basics of what boundaries are and how they work, discusses important areas to have boundaries in a dating relationship (spoiler: it’s about so much more than just physicality!), and explains exactly how to express and enforce your boundaries in a constructive way. By the end of the episode, you’ll be equipped to both know where to set boundaries in your dating life and how to respond effectively when your date or your boyfriend - or anyone else - pushes your boundaries.
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
Have you heard of the Dunning Kruger effect? Although you may not recognize the name, you’ve almost certainly witnessed this psychological phenomenon in others and likely experienced it yourself. In today’s podcast, Dominique breaks down how the Dunning Kruger effect plays out in the early stages of dating and can lead to disappointment, heartache, and poor dating decisions for many women. By the end of this episode, you’ll be able to spot the Dunning Kruger effect in yourself and others, and you’ll be prepared to effectively counteract it so that you can be more discerning, make better dating decisions, and enjoy healthier, happier relationships.
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
Valentine's Day can feel pretty loaded for a lot of us - it’s a Hallmark holiday centered on the emotional aspect of romantic love, and that can stir up a lot of emotions, both good and bad. This mixed bag of emotions can come up whether you're single or in a relationship. Today we'll go over 7 different emotional challenges Valentine's Day might be bringing up for you, and how to deal each of those different emotions in a healthy way so that you can enjoy Valentine's Day for whatever it means to you. Whether that means a day of indulging in chocolate, an occasion for mushy romance, or just another day, this podcast will help you make February 14th a great day.
Mentioned in this episode:
- Affordable Date Night Ideas for Any Budget
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
Are reality TV dating shows like The Bachelorette one of your guilty pleasures? Would you ever believe that watching reality TV dating shows can improve your dating life? In this week's episode, Dominique explains why, and breaks down three different reality dating shows that she recommends women watch - and what you can learn from them!
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
Everyone is feeling the economic squeeze lately, and luxuries like date night are often the first thing to go when you're tightening your budget. But you can still enjoy date night and stay fiscally responsible - yes, even in Joe Biden's economy! The trick is that you have to be a little creative and be willing to think outside the box. Today Dominique is sharing 10 ideas for dates that are both fun and budget-friendly. With the right mindset, it's totally possible to keep date night on your calendar AND keep to your budget.
Want even more affordable date ideas? Check out this blog post: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/blog/fun-amp-frugal-date-ideas-for-joe-bidens-economy
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
We've all heard of "new year, new me"...but what about new year, new love life? If 2022 found you single or in a relationship that wasn't what you'd hoped for, chances are that you're ready to make 2023 a better year for dating. Today Dominique will talk about 3 different resolutions you can make for the year that will have a profound impact on your dating life. If you're ready to set a goal for yourself and make a change in your dating habits, 2023 could be the year that you find love!
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
The holiday spirit is in the air, which means it’s the time of year for celebrating with loved ones through festive parties, holiday dinners, and mass quantities of dessert. This also means it’s the time of year when lots of relatives and family friends may be getting all up in your business with intrusive questions about your love life that make you feel incredibly uncomfortable. The good news is that this is THE episode to prepare you for Thanksgiving week and the upcoming Christmas season! That’s right - those nosy relatives don’t have to dampen your holiday cheer if you know how to respond to their awkward questions. Today we’ll talk all about the different ways you can respond to intrusive questions and how to gracefully shut down the folks who won’t stop interrogating you about your dating life.
Who you choose to marry is one of the biggest decisions anyone makes. It affects the rest of your life in profound ways, and it’s not a decision most of us take lightly. But how do you KNOW when you’re with the right guy and it’s the right time to get married? Sure, you may know that you’re in love, and it may feel like the right time, but a monumental decision like marriage isn’t a decision you want to make based solely on emotions. Today we’ll be talking all about the questions to ask yourself (and your boyfriend) to evaluate your relationship and see if you two are compatible for the long haul and at the right point in your relationship to take the leap from dating to marriage. This episode isn’t just about whether you’re ready for marriage - it’s also about making sure that you’re ready to start your married life on the right foot and set yourselves up for a happy and lasting marriage.
Sometimes the most effective way to learn about relationships is to observe real couples. For this week’s episode, we’re going to do exactly that and dive into a little “case study” as we talk about dating red flags. And what better case study to use than one of the most infamous couples from the first season of Netflix’s “Love Is Blind” - Jessica and Marc! If you haven’t seen the show, don’t worry, Dominique will provide plenty of background info so that you can follow along…but no one would blame you for indulging in some fun reality TV and watching (or re-watching!) season 1 of Love Is Blind.
Today is a follow up to the prior episode of QKF, when we talked about dating anxiety and strategies for combating it so that you can actually enjoy dating and cultivate a romantic relationship that is rewarding. But what if the anxiety is still there when you’re in a relationship? This episode will cover how dating anxiety can affect relationships, whether they are new relationships (you just started dating!) or relationships that are already established and pretty serious (maybe you’re even talking about rings!) If you’ve ever been worried about why a new match takes forever to text you, why your boyfriend isn't ready to take the next step with you, or felt insecure about his dating history and worried that his ex was “prettier,” then this is the episode for you.
Mentioned in today’s episode:
- Blog: Are You Too Picky?
- Blog: Dating Goals: How Knowing What You Want Can Transform Your Love Life
- Episode #03: Dealing With Insecurity In Dating
- Episode #06: Awkward Conversations You & Your Boyfriend Need To Have
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
Dating anxiety is something that can suck all the fun and enjoyment out of dating. It’s hard to enjoy dating when you’re constantly feeling anxious about everything related to dating - meeting men, finding something to talk about on the first date, worrying about whether he likes you, and so on. Being an anxious dater can be exhausting! But the good news is that you don’t have to stay anxious about dating. Today we’ll talk about several different strategies for combatting dating anxiety so that you can find the fun in dating and enjoy the kind of romantic relationship you’ve been wanting all along.
Mentioned in today’s episode:
- Blog: Are You Too Picky?
- Episode #05: Deal Breakers & Deal Makers
- Blog: Dating Goals: How Knowing What You Want Can Transform Your Love Life
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
A lot of women find themselves wondering if there are any good men left out there. It’s a fair question - the modern dating landscape can seem pretty barren! But the good news is that there are good men out there, and those men are looking for good women just like you. The trick, of course, is being able to find each other. Today we’ll talk all about what makes a good man, why they can be hard to find, and how to identify and remove barriers that are standing in your way so that you can meet the guy who is the right match for you!
Mentioned in today’s episode:
- Episode #01: Dating in the Digital Era
- Episode #13: Learn to Flirt (Even If You Feel Awkward)
- Blog: Dating Goals: How Knowing What You Want Can Transform Your Love Life
- Blog: Where Have All The Good Men Gone?
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
We often hear that “opposites attract,” and they certainly can…but do opposites make you compatible for the long-haul? Today we’ll be discussing just how similar you ought to be - and what specifically you should have in common - for your relationship to work and for the two of you to potentially build a life together. We’ll also explore the benefits of differences, and how much a relationship can be improved by differences between partners.
Mentioned in today’s episode:
Quit Kissing Frogs episode #05: Deal-Breakers & Deal-Makers
Quit Kissing Frogs episode #06: Awkward Conversations You Need to Have With Your Boyfriend
Blog Post on “setting goal posts” - Are You Too Picky?
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
Feel like you’re impossibly awkward when you try to flirt? You’re not alone - most women don’t find that flirting feels very natural. The good news is that flirting is a skill, and like any other social skill, flirting is something that ANYONE - even the most socially awkward - can master. All it takes is practice, a little time, and an understanding of the basics! Today’s episode is all about how to flirt more effectively. We’ll go over everything you need to know in order to flirt better. After today, you’ll be equipped to go out and practice those new skills!
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
You know the guy who will text you or message you on a dating app for weeks on end without ever asking you on a date? The guy you tell your friends about, saying, “No we haven’t gone out but we’ve been talking for awhile. He’s texting me every day, I think he really likes me!” This is the “pen pal guy.” “Pen pal guys” trap you in a cycle of flirty, charming conversation that starts out exhilarating and ends up exasperating because it never leads to an actual date, let alone a real-life relationship. In today’s episode we’ll talk all about why guys do the pen-pal thing, the dangers of this cycle, and how to break out of it and get him to finally ask you on a date!
Mentioned in this episode:
Blog post on standards and "goal posts" in dating - “Are You Too Picky?”
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
Today is a quick-hits episode where Dominique will be answering multiple different listener questions about dating and relationships. (If you’d like to submit your own anonymous question for the next Q&A, click here.) These “Girls Night” episodes will be a little more casual and a little more personal - just like a night out with your girlfriends. So grab yourself an espresso (or an espresso martini) and settle in!
Q&A time stamps:
(01:20) How do I jump into the dating scene?
(06:43) Is it ok for the girl to make the first move? Does that send the wrong message?
(18:08) How do you find good people on dating apps?
(26:55) Is the “spark” really that important? What about physical attraction? Can those things develop over time, or do they need to be there early on?
(32:38) How do I deal with rejection, or the fear of rejection?
Mentioned in today’s podcast:
Blog post: Dating in the Digital Era (how to use dating apps successfully)
Quit Kissing Frogs episode #01 “Dating in the Digital Era” (listen here)
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
Dating can be difficult at times for everyone, but when you feel like a “late bloomer” in the world of dating, it presents some unique challenges. The good news is that there are also some terrific upsides to being a late bloomer in dating, so it’s not without its silver linings. Today’s episode explores the reality of what it’s like to start dating when you’re already well into adulthood - what to know, what to avoid, and how to make the most of your dating life so that you maximize your chances of a happy, healthy relationship.
Mentioned in today’s podcast:
Quit Kissing Frogs episode #03 “Dealing with Insecurity in Dating” (listen here)
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
Today’s episode is part two of the discussion on breakups. In the last episode, we talked about why relationships end and valid reasons to end a relationship, as well as practical advice for how to go about the breakup. In this episode, we will cover some common questions about the breakup itself, including:
- Should I wait until after his birthday (or graduation, vacation, our anniversary, etc.) to break up with him?
- What if he doesn’t understand and wants to stay together?
- How can I make sure things end on a peaceful note?
Mentioned in today’s podcast:
Part 1 of the Breakup series: Quit Kissing Frogs episode #07 - “Breaking Up: How & Why to End a Relationship” (listen here)
Quit Kissing Frogs episode #05 - “Deal-Breakers & Deal-Makers” (listen here)
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
Resources for abusive relationships:
National Domestic Violence Hotline (available 24/7) 800-799-7233
More help can be found at: https://www.thehotline.org/
Directory for local resources for domestic violence/abusive relationships: https://www.thehotline.org/get-help/domestic-violence-local-resources/
Breaking up can be painful, and deciding to end a relationship can be a difficult choice to make. In this episode, we’ll discuss reasons to end a relationship and what warrants a breakup, as well as what makes breaking up so difficult. We’ll also talk a bit about the practical side of making a breakup healthier and how to avoid unnecessary pain and drama. Be sure to stay tuned for Part 2 next week!
Mentioned in today’s podcast:
- Quit Kissing Frogs episode #05 - “Deal-Breakers & Deal-Makers” (listen here)
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
*Resources for abusive relationships:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline (available 24/7) 800-799-7233
- More help can be found at: https://www.thehotline.org/
- Directory for local resources for domestic violence/abusive relationships:https://www.thehotline.org/get-help/domestic-violence-local-resources/
Awkward conversations can be incredibly uncomfortable - and incredibly necessary. A lot of the topics that we find most awkward to talk about are the very topics that are most important to discuss when we are dating. If we avoid those conversations, we’re passing up golden opportunities to confirm that we truly are a good match, work through differences, and develop deeper intimacy and sense of being a team. One of the best things you can do for your relationships - especially before marriage - is to face these awkward conversations head on. Today’s episode will talk all about the specific “awkward topics” that you need to be discussing, as well as how to talk about them to make sure that those conversations are worth it.
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
What are your deal-breakers in a relationship? And just as importantly, what are your deal-makers? Today we’re talking about the relationship goalposts we all set, and how to set those standards and apply them when you’re dating. If you’re like most women, you may have a couple deal-breakers in mind (like cheating), and those come to mind because they carry a significant emotional charge. In reality, deal-breakers and deal-makers are a crucial part of dating and finding the right match for you. Taking the time to reflect and assess your values and “set the goalposts” can make the difference between dating around versus settling down. If you’re stuck in a cycle of kissing frogs, this episode is for you!
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form:
https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
**Today we’re talking about the importance of discernment in dating, why judgment is a good thing, and how you can improve your dating life by developing your skill of discernment. Very few people find the dating process intuitive - it takes work to develop the skills and intuition and sound judgment that help you be successful in dating. The good news is that anyone can develop discernment in dating if they are willing to put in the time and practice, and in this episode we’ll outline exactly how you can do that.
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com**
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form:
https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
Do you struggle with insecurity? Welcome to the club - everyone feels insecure from time to time! The trick is to keep that insecurity in check so that it doesn’t cause damage to your dating life, relationships, or any other areas of life! This episode delves into insecurity and discusses what it looks like in dating, the negative effects it can have on your dating life and relationships, and the simple (although not always easy) strategies to effectively combat insecurity and start dating with confidence.
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
This episode is all about first dates - and specifically, those common fears that it can stir up! From worrying about not liking your date, to worrying that he won’t like you, to being scared that you’ll run out of things to talk about or that you’ll somehow embarrass yourself, there are a million things a girl could worry about before a first date. The good news is that most of these fears are based more in our mind than in reality. Dominique talks through some of the more common fears that cause anxiety before a first date, and provides a much-needed reality-check to help reframe those fears so that you can feel more confident, put those fears to rest, and enjoy that date! After all, what’s the worst that could happen? (Spoiler: It’snot that bad.)
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form: https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
**The inaugural episode welcoming you to Quit Kissing Frogs - the podcast exploring dating and relationships from the perspective of a therapist who’s been there herself. Meet Dominique, the therapist behind the pod, whose own dating experiences sparked an interest in working with couples, which then became a focus of her clinical practice. With Quit Kissing Frogs, she brings the insights and lessons from her work with couples and individuals seeking to improve their love lives and cultivate stronger, more joyful, and more rewarding relationships.
In addition to sharing a bit about her background and introducing the Quit Kissing Frogs podcast, Dominique discusses dating in today’s digital age. Though there can be challenges, there are plenty of ways you can make the dating apps work to your advantage - listen in to find out how!**
For more information, head over to QuitKissingFrogs.com
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, please use this form:
https://quitkissingfrogs.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod
**The inaugural episode welcoming you to Better Together - the podcast exploring dating and relationships from the perspective of a therapist who’s been there. Meet Dominique, the therapist behind the pod, whose own dating experiences sparked an interest in working with couples, which then became a focus of her clinical practice. In Better Together, she brings the insights and lessons from her work with couples and individuals seeking to improve their love lives and cultivate stronger, more joyful, and more rewarding relationships.
In addition to sharing a bit about her background and introducing the Better Together podcast, Dominique discusses dating in today’s digital age. Though there can be challenges, there are plenty of ways you can make the dating apps work to your advantage - listen in to find out how!**
For more information, head over to BetterTogetherPod.com.
To submit a question for a future Q&A episode, go here: https://www.bettertogetherpod.com/got-a-question-for-the-pod