Smart Dating Academy - The Podcast

Welcome to this week's episode, where we dive into the love story of all love stories! When it comes to finding love, everyone’s journey is unique—but they often share the same ups and downs. This week, I’m thrilled to introduce Lauren, an inspiring woman who went from feeling stuck in her love life to meeting her dream partner. With insights from our coaching team, including the extraordinary Ilene Collins, Lauren’s story proves that love can blossom when you least expect it. Lauren’s transformation wasn’t just about meeting "the one"; it was about becoming the best version of herself first. She embraced her fears, overcame self-doubt, and found clarity in her values—all while navigating the challenges of dating in the modern world. We talked about: Lauren’s Journey: From frustration to fulfillment, hear how Lauren stayed hopeful and open to love. Key Strategies for Success: Learn about the mindset shifts and actionable steps that helped Lauren attract her ideal partner. Overcoming Doubts: How Lauren silenced her inner critic and found confidence in the process. Support Systems: The role of coaching and community in Lauren’s journey. Love in Action: Real-life tips on navigating the dating world with authenticity and grace. Lauren’s story is a reminder that love is out there, and it’s waiting for you to claim it. If she can do it, so can you! Ready to redefine your dating life or need guidance on your journey to love? Visit Smart Dating Academy to learn more about our transformative programs. For more free tips and up to date information, click here to register for the Smart Dating Academy free newsletter!   https://www.smartdatingacademy.com/contact Follow us on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/smartdatingacademy/

In this enlightening episode, I welcome the brilliant Dr. Jenny Taitz—a clinical psychologist, UCLA faculty member, and author of the transformative book Stress Reset. Together, we dive into actionable strategies for managing stress, staying grounded, and transforming your mindset for success in dating and beyond.  She's also the author of one of my favorite books, "How to Be Single and Happy!"   Whether you're navigating the emotional rollercoaster of modern relationships or looking to level up your personal growth, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical tools. We talked about: How stress impacts your dating life and decision-making.Simple yet powerful techniques to reset your mind in moments of overwhelm.The science behind stress and why it’s not just “in your head.”Why self-compassion and mindfulness are key to successful dating.How Dr. Taitz's personal journey inspired Stress Reset. Tune into this episode if you want to feel more confident and centered in your dating life! Ready to redefine your dating life or need guidance on your journey to love? Visit Smart Dating Academy to learn more about our transformative programs. For more free tips and up to date information, click here to register for the Smart Dating Academy free newsletter!   https://www.smartdatingacademy.com/contact Follow us on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/smartdatingacademy/

This week, I had the privilege of sitting down with the incredible Marilyn Chinitz—a powerhouse attorney with over 40 years of expertise in family law and divorce. Her wisdom, wit, and compassionate approach to navigating life’s trickiest transitions are unparalleled. Whether you're curious about protecting your assets, healing after heartbreak, or setting yourself up for a thriving relationship, this episode has golden nuggets just for you. We talked about: The Art of Resilience: How Marilyn turned decades of challenging cases into a masterclass on thriving after setbacks. Dating After Divorce: Tips for re-entering the dating world with confidence and clarity. The Power of a Prenup: Why these agreements aren’t just for the wealthy—they’re tools for communication and trust. Red Flags vs. Green Lights: Spotting the signs of a strong, healthy relationship. Self-Care in Transitions: Marilyn’s personal strategies for staying vibrant, focused, and fabulous at any age. What steps are you taking to build resilience and confidence in your relationships? Remember, the road to love and fulfillment starts with understanding your worth and protecting your peace.    Ready to redefine your dating life or need guidance on your journey to love? Visit Smart Dating Academy to learn more about our transformative programs. For more free tips and up to date information, click here to register for the Smart Dating Academy free newsletter!   https://www.smartdatingacademy.com/contact Follow us on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/smartdatingacademy/

I’m so excited to share this week’s powerful story, featuring a journey of resilience, hope, and finding love again against the odds. In this heartfelt episode, we dive into the incredible experience of one of our listeners who, at 48, faced a life-changing loss: the sudden passing of her husband from a heart attack. Grieving and single for over a decade, she never imagined herself dating again, let alone getting remarried. But everything changed when a friend issued a life-altering challenge: give Match.com a shot for six months. Little did she know that this challenge would lead her on a transformative journey, one that would ultimately bring her to the doors of the Smart Dating Academy. We talked about: Overcoming the Fear of Starting Over: Imagine not dating for over 32 years. How do you even begin to navigate the dating world again? We discuss the struggles and triumphs of re-entering the dating scene after loss. The Power of Support and a Clear Process: Teresa opens up about how the guidance, tools, and support from the Smart Dating Academy helped her identify and attract the right type of partner. Defining What You Want in a Partner: Why is knowing what you want so important, and how can you stay true to that vision? We explore the mindset shifts that made a difference. Taking Things Slow and Building Friendship First: The magic of getting to know someone as a friend before diving into romance, and how this approach created a solid foundation for her current marriage. Using the Marriage Map Tool: Learn about the impact of this tool and how it guided Teresa to determine if her partner, Curtis, was the right match. Teresa's story is a beautiful reminder that love can come back into your life when you least expect it, and that with the right approach and support, you can find a partner who complements your life perfectly. Ready to redefine your dating life or need guidance on your journey to love? Visit Smart Dating Academy to learn more about our transformative programs. For more free tips and up to date information, click here to register for the Smart Dating Academy free newsletter!   https://www.smartdatingacademy.com/contact Follow us on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/smartdatingacademy/

I’m thrilled to bring you a special guest this week, Coach and Conscious Relationship Teacher Veronika Amaya. Veronika is a relationship expert with a unique global perspective on dating and connection, and in this episode she will help us uncover the “missing pieces” that can keep us from forming genuine bonds. Veronika has a wealth of knowledge on the emotional nuances that make relationships thrive and offers down-to-earth tips for bridging those gaps to find and maintain meaningful connections. We talked about: How to recognize what’s truly missing in modern relationships and why it mattersSimple, practical steps for building deeper connections in a fast-paced worldThe art of vulnerability, and why it’s often the key to authentic intimacyHow cultural perspectives shape our connections and understandingWays to identify and shift patterns that may be keeping you from feeling seen and understood Veronika is a treasure trove of insights for anyone who feels that their connections could use a little more depth or clarity. She invites us to look within, encouraging a fresh perspective that feels both reassuring and actionable. Website: https://www.veronika-amaya.com/ For more free tips and up to date information, click here to register for the Smart Dating Academy free newsletter!   https://www.smartdatingacademy.com/contact Follow us on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/smartdatingacademy/

Heather's Journey to Self-Love and Self Discovery - What I Learned at Smart Dating Academy For more free tips and up to date information, click here to register for the Smart Dating Academy free newsletter!   https://www.smartdatingacademy.com/contact Follow us on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/smartdatingacademy/

I’m beyond thrilled to have Dr. Nadine Macaluso (Dr. Nae, as I call her!). on today’s episode! Dr. Nae’s story is nothing short of jaw-dropping — she was married to The Wolf of Wall Street himself, Jordan Belfort. But this conversation isn’t just about her past; it’s about her incredible journey of survival, healing, and growth. Dr. Nae has taken what she’s learned from that chapter of her life and is using it to help others break free from toxic relationships and trauma bonds (she went back to school and got her doctorate as part of her journey to help herself and others). We had such an amazing chat, and I know you’re going to love it! Dr. Nae has been through it all, and she’s come out the other side stronger, wiser, and ready to share her insights on how to stop repeating old patterns and start thriving in healthier relationships. We talked about: Her experience with trauma bonds and why we keep picking the same type of partner How to break free from unhealthy patterns and build a stronger sense of self What it really takes to heal after trauma and thrive in love again Why choosing healthier partners isn’t just about avoiding red flags, but learning to trust yourself The power of resilience and how to bounce back from hardship I can’t wait for you to hear this episode! Dr. Nae’s story is powerful, and her advice is game-changing if you’ve ever struggled with toxic relationships. If you love the episode, please subscribe, rate, and share it so we can keep bringing you these incredible conversations! Website: Drnae.com For more free tips and up to date information, click here to register for the Smart Dating Academy free newsletter!   https://www.smartdatingacademy.com/contact Follow us on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/smartdatingacademy/

In this heartwarming love story episode, I sit down with our beloved client Tara, an accomplished attorney from Chicago, who shares her incredible journey of love and self-discovery. Tara's story begins in a traditional household, where arranged marriages were the norm, and she herself entered one that didn't quite work out. However, through her resilience, career-focused mindset, and our Smart Dating work together, Tara redefined what love meant for her, and found a relationship that truly aligned with her heart. We dive deep into the challenges she faced, the lessons learned, and how she overcame cultural expectations to create her own love story.  We talk about: The emotional and mental complexities of arranged marriages and why they may or may not work for everyoneThe importance of being open to growth and self-awareness when navigating relationshipsHow a career-driven woman can balance love, self-worth, and ambition without compromising on anyStrategies Tara used to stay resilient and open to love after her marriage didn’t work outHow mindset and support can help you attract the right relationship Whether you've had an arranged marriage experience, are navigating modern dating, or just love a good love story, Tara's journey will leave you feeling inspired, hopeful, and ready to take control of your own relationship destiny. Ready to rewrite your love story? Tune in to this episode and learn how you can find your own version of love, no matter where you start. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave us a review if you enjoyed Tara’s inspiring journey! For more free tips and up to date information, click here to register for the Smart Dating Academy free newsletter!   https://www.smartdatingacademy.com/contact Follow us on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/smartdatingacademy/

Title:  Beyond Mars and Venus: Relationship Skills for TODAY with Dr. John Gray I couldn't be more excited to have Dr. John Gray, who wrote one of the most well-known and trusted relationship books of all time: Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus (the #1 bestselling book of its decade).  We had such a good chat that you're going to love; John lost his loving partner of decades and has found love AGAIN!  We talked about love, loss, new love, and getting the BEST out of your partner - whether your relationship is brand new or decades old.  He has appeared repeatedly on Oprah, as well as on The Dr. Oz Show, TODAY, CBS This Morning, Good Morning America, and others. He has been profiled in Time, Forbes, USA Today, and People. We talked about: How he got over his wife of 34 years' passing and how he found love againWhat the biggest change in relationships is since he wrote his first bookWhat the difference is in what men need and women need in a relationshipEnlightened sexuality and what it meansWhy men need to reconnect with their masculine side and women with their feminine sideHow to have a happy relationship Can't wait for you to listen to and LOVE this episode!   If you love it, please subscribe to our podcast, and feel free to give it the top rating so we can keep it going for you!   For more free tips and up to date information, click here to register for the Smart Dating Academy free newsletter!   https://www.smartdatingacademy.com/contact Follow us on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/smartdatingacademy/

I am super excited to have Todd Baratz as a guest on the podcast. Todd is a renowned psychotherapist and sex therapist whose innovative approaches to mental health and relationships have established him as a leading figure.    We talked about: His new book "How to Love Someone Without Losing Your Mind"Reframing how we approach relationship issuesHow to deal with breakupsThe difference between cultural diagnoses and true toxic traitsWhat "hurt potential" is, how it can impact new relationships, and what we can do about itHow to craft a "relationship contract"The first step we can all take today to improve our relationships This episode has so many great take-aways to build healthier and more fulfilling relationships. It all starts with developing more self-awareness and getting to know ourselves on the inside.   In addition to his clinical practice, Baratz is a prolific writer and speaker. His insights are regularly featured in various media outlets, where he discusses topics ranging from romantic relationships to individual mental wellness.  Website: https://www.toddsbaratz.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourdiagnonsense New Book: How to Love Someone Without Losing Your Mind For more free tips and up to date information, click here to register for the Smart Dating Academy free newsletter!   https://www.smartdatingacademy.com/contact Follow us on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/smartdatingacademy/

Guest: Jill Foos, National Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach (NBHWC) with a rich background in psychology and functional medicine health coaching. This week, we come to you with one of your favorite things to hear because it's HOPEFUL, a Smart Dating Academy real-life love story. Jill was a coaching client who found the lid to her pod and started her own business.  Jill met her husband at a young age and they eloped to get married and had 5 kids. Jill started seeing the red flags early on, and that they were on separate pages just a few years into the marriage, but they stuck it out for 24 years and eventually got divorced. Jill and Bela met in 2018 when she wasn't dating yet. She knew she needed help getting back into the dating world and decided to start working with SDA. Lindsay and I helped Jill figure out what characteristics and traits she SHOULD BE looking for in a partner to make her happy -- vs. the standard "checklist" women often use!    After setting up her dating profile on the apps, Jill really embraced the whole process and dated for about 18 months.   What was her 'last first date'?  A wonderful set-up date by a friend with a man named Noah. She immediately liked Noah during their first date because he made her laugh. This was during Covid, so they kept it slow and got creative with their dates. After about 6 months of dating, Jill moved a block away from Noah and half a year later her lease was up and she moved in with Noah. They have been in a relationship for 4 years now and are still going strong. The relationship feels easy and their blended family, which includes both of their kids, Jill's ex-husband and his new partner, gets along well and spend holidays together.  And Jill started a new career as well, as one can when they have happy love!  She is now a dedicated National Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach (NBHWC) and the founder of Jill Foos Wellness. She's helping women and look better at all ages, but especially during midlife. I hope that you are inspired by Jill's story. She felt like her life was shattered, but she built it back up step by step and is now in a better place than ever.  For more free tips and up to date information, click here to register for the Smart Dating Academy free newsletter!   https://www.smartdatingacademy.com/contact Follow us on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/smartdatingacademy/

This week on the podcast, I have the absolute pleasure to interview Elizabeth Earnshaw, a renowned Gottman therapist and bestselling author (she has a new book coming out in September!) who is the owner of a thriving family and marriage therapy practice. She is known for her popular Instagram account @lizlistens and has been featured in the New York Times, USA Today, The Washington Post, and more.    Elizabeth and I delve into various crucial topics concerning relationships and stress management.  We talk about: What a healthy relationships is and what kind of stressors are faced by couples and singlesHow to recognize and address stress in relationships, both external (work, family) and internal (relationship dynamics)What "stress spillover" is in a relationshipThe significance of emotional regulation in conflict resolution and the importance of taking pauses during heated momentsThe 4 Horsemen of the Apocalypse in relationshipsRecommended strategies like to de-escalate conflicts and regain composure before addressing issuesThe importance of early stress recognition to prevent conflicts from escalatingThe need for self-awareness in maintaining healthy communication Elizabeth shares such valuable insights and this is a must listen if you want to focus on managing stress and fostering healthy communication in relationships. Website: elizabethearnshaw.com The Balancing Act | Elizabeth Earnshaw, LMFT | Substack For more free tips and up to date information, click here to register for the Smart Dating Academy free newsletter!   https://www.smartdatingacademy.com/contact Follow us on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/smartdatingacademy/

This week, I welcome Natalie Lue to the Smart Dating Academy podcast. She is a boundaries and relationship coach and the creator of one of the longest running self-help blogs in the world, BaggageReclaim.com. Natalie helps people understand how their emotional baggage is interfering with their ability to live their lives happily and authentically. We talk about: The impact emotional baggage has on relationshipsThe connection between emotional availability and people-pleasing behaviorThe significance of boundaries in personal growth and relationship dynamicsLearning to say no and setting healthy boundariesRecognizing and addressing emotional baggage to avoid repeating negative patterns in relationshipsPrioritizing self-respect, self-acceptance, and making decisions that align with one's true self to foster healthy and fulfilling relationships This episode is a must listen if you would like to establish healthy boundaries and cultivate meaningful and genuine connections in romantic relationships AND personal relationships.Blog: www.baggagereclaim.co.uk Website: www.natalielue.com For more free tips and up to date information, click here to register for the Smart Dating Academy free newsletter!   https://www.smartdatingacademy.com/contact Follow us on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/smartdatingacademy/

This week, I'm so excited to introduce my friend and former client, Stacy Katz to the podcast. Stacy is a sought after mindset coach who helps women create more Relaxation and Power with her R.E.L.A.X Mindset Method. Her approach is rooted in real-world experience, making it both relatable and actionable. She has over two decades of experience in mindset and peak performance. She has guided C-level executives and leadership teams inside some of the biggest global brands like HP, Verizon, Spotify and more.  In this episode Stacy and I explore how you are going to get more relaxed and more powerful in dating and in your entire life. We talk about: The concept of limiting beliefs and how they affect our results in and out of the dating worldHow we can transform limiting beliefs and non-useful thinkingWhat it means to “listen for the gold” on a date and how it can create deeper connections and make others feel safe and supported in relationships.How Stacy became to focus on being Relaxed and PowerfulHow someone should begin the practice of developing compassionate self-forgiveness, especially if they’ve had tough dating experiencesHow focusing on internal alignment and being psychotically optimistic can positively impact dating and overall life experiences Stacy is offering a special gift to the listeners of The Smart Dating Academy podcast: An Energy Audit to help you understand how different aspects of your daily life and routine either contribute to or deplete your energy levels. This is a key first step in creating your Relaxed and Powerful Life. Go to www.stacykatz.com to get your gift! For more free tips and up to date information, click here to register for the Smart Dating Academy free newsletter!   https://www.smartdatingacademy.com/contact Follow us on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/smartdatingacademy/

I had the absolute pleasure to have a conversation with the amazing Vienna Pharaon about how breaking family patterns can liberate the way we live and love. Vienna Pharaon is a licensed marriage and family therapist and one of New York City’s most sought after relationship therapists. She has practiced therapy for over fifteen years and is the founder and owner of the group practice, Mindful Marriage and Family Therapy. She has been featured in The Economist, Netflix, Vice, and Motherly, and has led workshops for Peloton and Netflix, amongst others. Her book "The Origins of You" is a National Bestseller. We talk about: Why we adopt and adapt to family's beliefs and behaviorsThe difference between belonging and fitting inHow origin wounds, such as prioritization and belonging wounds, can impact relationships and the ability to trust others How we can heal from these origin wounds and break free from unwanted patternsWhy tolerating discomfort and taking risks are necessary for change and empowerment. You will learn so much from Vienna about the impact of attachment, authenticity, and family dynamics on relationships and how origin wounds can shape our behaviors and choices in relationships. This is a must listen if you want to heal and break free from unhealthy patterns and create healthier, more fulfilling relationships.  Website: https://viennapharaon.com Instagram: @mindfulmft What is Your Origin Wound? Quiz: https://1wsm6geg69z.typeform.com/to/d981R7Cl For more free tips and up to date information, click here to register for the Smart Dating Academy free newsletter!   https://www.smartdatingacademy.com/contact Follow us on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/smartdatingacademy/

Bela has a wonderful conversation with Relationship Maven Dr. Abby Medcalf. She is a psychologist, author, podcast host and TEDx speaker who has helped thousands of people think differently so they can create connection, ease and joy in their relationships (especially the one with yourself)! With over 35 years of experience, Abby is a recognized authority and sought-after speaker at organizations such as Google, Apple, AT&T, Kaiser, PG&E, American Airlines and Chevron and she’s been a featured expert on CBS and ABC news, and has been a contributor to the New York Times, Women’s Health, Psychology Today, Well+Good and Bustle. They talk about: The number one problem in relationships (and it's not what you think!)The importance of identifying and clarifying your own needs and standards in a relationshipWhat trust in a relationship is built on What boundaries should be based on how to communicate them EFFECTIVELYCollaborative questions can deepen understanding and connection in conversationsGiving others the benefit of the doubt and seeking clarification before making assumptions This is a must listen if you want to gain invaluable insights and guidance to improve your relationship and create more fulfilling connections with your partner. Dr. Abby is truly a gem! Website: https://abbymedcalf.com Newly Released Book: Boundaries Made Easy; Your Roadmap to Connection, Ease and Joy For more free tips and up to date information, click here to register for the Smart Dating Academy free newsletter!   https://www.smartdatingacademy.com/contact Follow us on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/smartdatingacademy/

This week we welcome Dr. Heidi Brocke to the podcast and you will LOVE the gems that she will drop on us! Dr. Heidi Brocke is a Toxic Relationship Awareness & Healing Specialist. After spending 14 years in an extremely emotionally and narcissistically abusive relationship she broke the chains and turned her past into her passion. She’s an international keynote speaker, recipient of Empowering Women in Business of The Year award by Inspiring Lives Magazine, and has been featured in both Forbes and Time Magazines for the dedication given to her clients and for her work in the toxic relationship area. We talked about: Spotting a Toxic Relationship (and wait til you hear her 'unconventional' checklist)Trusting Your Gut (your internal alarm system!)Understanding Emotional Abuse (it can be very sneaky)Taking the Time to HealWhat to Do When Children are InvolvedSetting Boundaries and Prioritizing YOUReaching Out for Support Dr. Heidi wonderfully highlights the importance of recognizing and addressing toxic relationships. This is a must listen! Trust your instincts, take care of yourself, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. You’ve got this! Website: www.coachingwithdrheidi.com For more free tips and up to date information, click here to register for the Smart Dating Academy free newsletter!   https://www.smartdatingacademy.com/contact Follow us on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/smartdatingacademy/

This episode will take the mystery out of the BEST and most humane way to break up with someone that you've been dating for any extended amount of time, and is with Natalia Juarez. Natalia is a seasoned relationship coach specializing in heartbreak. Following a broken engagement at the age 29, she redefined heartbreak as an opportunity for transformation. In 2014, she started helping individuals in navigating romantic hardships and fostering healthy relationships. We talk about: How one can be sure that breaking up is the right decisionHow to not blindside your partner with a breakupChoosing the right time and place to initiate a breakupIn what circumstances it would be appropriate to break up through a phone call or textStrategies to maintain firmness while also showing compassion during the breakup conversationSetting boundaries after a breakup to ensure both parties have space to healWhen it's appropriate to consider reestablishing contact after a breakup  Natalia's Website: Lovistics.com Follow Natalia on IG: @thebreakupcoach Free Breakup Scripts For more free tips and up to date information, click here to register for the Smart Dating Academy free newsletter!   https://www.smartdatingacademy.com/contact Follow us on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/smartdatingacademy/

This week I welcome my esteemed colleague and great friend Jenny Stevens to the podcast. Jenny is a licensed clinical counselor turned personal/ professional/divorce coach. She is known as 'The Champion for Change' having gone through her own share of difficult life changes. We talk about: How working with SDA has helped her find the lid to her potThe difficult changes that Jenny had to navigate to lead her to where she is nowHow to redesign your life in 3 simple steps The importance of mindset and breaking free of our limiting beliefsThe Top 5 mindset hacksHow to break free from perfection and overthinking Jenny will inspire you to not wait for a life changing event to create the life you want. You can do anything you set your mind to! Life is so short, don’t wait! https://jennystevenscoach.com/ For more free tips and up to date information, click here to register for the Smart Dating Academy free newsletter!   https://www.smartdatingacademy.com/contact Follow us on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/smartdatingacademy/

This week we welcome the wonderful Kendra Allen to our podcast. Kendra is a breakup coach, host of the Heal Your Heartbreak Podcast, author of The Breakup Workbook, and founder of Break Up Bestie. She shares how she saw a huge gap online for practical and healthy heartbreak advice, after going through a series of painful breakups. So, she set out to fill it in. We talk about: The first steps to take to get through the beginning of a breakup (and it starts with sharing your true feelings!)Why it's not good to numb away the breakupThe importance of the No Contact rule in healingHow moving on from a breakup is similar to the experience of getting soberKendra's stance on on-again, off-again relationshipsNavigating social media when it comes to your exPractical things people can do to help to heal from a breakupWhy routines are so important when going through a breakup You will love this episode! Kendra is such a wealth of knowledge and you will learn so much about how to navigate this difficult time. For more free tips and up to date information, click here to register for the Smart Dating Academy free newsletter!   https://www.smartdatingacademy.com/contact Follow us on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/smartdatingacademy/