Orna & Matthew Walters, founders of Love On Purpose, share the knowledge and insights from their new book, “Getting It Right This Time: Break Free From Your Hidden Blocks To Finding Lasting Love”. You’ll learn how you might be standing in your own way when it comes to love and what you can do to get yourself back on track. And our Dear Damona question this week is:

• I want to pay for Premium on one app? Should I choose Tinder, Bumble, or OKCupid?

Grab a copy of “Getting It Right This Time: Break Free From Your Hidden Blocks To Finding Lasting Love” by visiting: https://www.loveonpurpose.com/getting-it-right-this-time/

Craving another soothing meditation, transformational tools, and a sense of community? For the first time ever, Damona is offering a one-day virtual retreat on February 1st. Enrollment is NOW OPEN for The Fairy Tale Therapy Online Retreat but spaces are limited. Get your ticket now at  DamonaHoffman.com/retreat 

Submit your questions for Dear Damona on any of the socials @DamonaHoffman or by visiting DamonaHoffman.com

TIMESTAMPS

Introduction to the Episode (00:00:00)  

Guests Introduction (00:00:56)  

Background of the Guests (00:02:10)  

Discussion on Title Choice (00:03:22)  

Challenges in Dating (00:03:41)  

Dating in the Modern Era (00:04:25)  

Myth of Effortless Love (00:05:03)  

Conflict in Relationships (00:06:54)  

Understanding Triggers (00:09:25)  

Authenticity in Communication (00:11:56)  

Patterns in Relationships (00:12:33)  

Brain Science of Attraction (00:14:13)  

Personal Experiences with Love (00:15:17)  

The Impact of Past Trauma (00:15:50)  

Contrasting Upbringings (00:16:13)  

Subconscious Patterns in Relationships (00:17:23)  

Understanding Love Imprint (00:18:36)  

Evaluating Relationship Needs (00:20:01)  

Misinterpreting Feelings (00:20:56)  

Commitment Before Understanding (00:21:56)  

The Danger of Rushing Relationships (00:22:41)  

Tools for Self-Discovery (00:23:54)  

Visceral Responses to Love Imprints (00:25:15) 

Meaning in Past Experiences (00:26:10)  

Chemistry vs. Love Imprint (00:28:21)  

The Complexity of Love Imprints (00:29:16)  

Broadening Relationship Perspectives (00:30:34)  

Understanding Casual Alcoholism (00:31:16)  

Realizing Personal Responsibility (00:31:36)  

The Love Imprint Concept (00:32:30)  

Navigating Relationship Myths (00:33:36)  

Recognizing Relationship Intentions (00:34:39)  

The Fantasy of Being Chosen (00:35:36)  

Growth Through Relationships (00:37:11)  

Using Dating Apps Effectively (00:38:07)  

The Reality of Dating (00:39:36)  

The Importance of Clarity in Relationships (00:42:37)  

Manifestation in Relationships (00:45:40)  

Love Imprints and Relationship Dynamics (00:46:25)  

Self-Discovery in Relationships (00:47:56)  

Unpopular Opinions on Dating (00:48:28)  

Deal Breakers in Relationships (00:49:52)  

Optimizing Dating Profiles (00:55:00)  

Choosing the Right Dating App (00:59:33)  

Fairy Tale Therapy Retreat (01:00:44) 

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Carol Allen, Vedic astrologer, returns to kick off 2025 with her annual love forecast in an episode packed with guidance and revelations. Whether you’re single and searching, navigating a partnership, or simply curious about how the stars align for you, this episode will illuminate your path to love by highlighting the times you should lean into love, when you should play it cool and when to follow up on old flames. Plus, our Dear Damona question of the week:

• What’s up with all this lovebombing on dating apps?

Map out your year and your journey in love with a Personal Success Calendar from Carol Allen. Head to DamonaHoffman.com/mycalendar to get 60% off your personalized astrology daily forecast.

Craving another soothing meditation, transformational tools, and a sense of community? For the first time ever, Damona is offering a one-day virtual retreat on February 1st. The Fairy Tale Therapy Online Retreat is available by invitation-only and Damona is hand-selecting each participant in this life-changing event. Apply today at DamonaHoffman.com/retreat

Submit your questions for Dear Damona on any of the socials @DamonaHoffman or by visiting DamonaHoffman.com

TIMESTAMPS

Introduction to Vedic Astrology (00:00:13)  

Understanding Vedic Astrology (00:05:46)  

Auspicious Dates for Love (00:11:23)  

The Importance of Venus (00:12:42)  

Transits and Their Impact (00:15:08)  

The Sati Sati Cycle and the US (00:16:09)  

Impact of 2020 on Relationships (00:17:15)  

Transitioning Relationships (00:18:22)  

Rahu Periods and Global Chaos (00:18:55)  

Commitment to Joy (00:19:24)  

Venus in 2025 (00:20:20)  

Venus Retrograde Dates (00:21:05)  

Revisiting Past Connections (00:22:20)  

Upcoming Venus Favorable Periods (00:24:40)  

Navigating Tricky Times (00:25:58)  

Mars Retrograde Impact (00:26:21)  

April Challenges (00:27:33)  

Mercury Retrograde Overview (00:28:40)  

Mercury Retrograde Dates (00:29:58)  

Jupiter and Marriage (00:31:07)  

Jupiter Retrograde Timeline (00:32:21)  

Winter Weddings Warning (00:33:05)  

Engagement Timing (00:33:20)  

Wedding Chart Insights (00:34:25)  

Personal Success Calendar (00:34:27)  

Astrological Techniques for Love (00:35:07)  

Jupiter and Mars Relationship Technique (00:36:32)  

Celebrity Astrology Examples (00:37:47)  

Taylor Swift's Chart Analysis (00:40:13)  

Beyoncé's Astrological Insights (00:42:27)  

Personal Success Calendar Benefits (00:44:08)  

Unpopular Opinion on Dating (00:46:01)  

Listener Question on Love Bombing (00:47:59)  

Understanding Love Bombing (00:50:09)  

Patterns in Relationships (00:51:19)  

Recognizing Manipulation (00:52:22)  

Setting Boundaries in Dating (00:53:17)  

Importance of Offline Interaction (00:54:30)  

Evaluating Reactions to Boundaries (00:55:55)  

Sorting Out Emotional Manipulation (00:57:29)  

Upcoming Fairy Tale Retreat (00:58:36)  

Astrological Calendar Offer (00:59:47)

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Damona offers a visualization to guide you through the ups and downs of this year and plant seeds for a 2025 full of love in this special minisode. Then, she shares her word of the year along with an exercise that you can try today to begin transforming your love journey.

Craving another soothing meditation, transformational tools, and a sense of community? For the first time ever, Damona is offering a one-day virtual retreat on February 1st. The Fairy Tale Therapy Online Retreat is available by invitation-only and Damona is hand-selecting each participant in this life-changing event. Apply today at DamonaHoffman.com/retreat

The song in this episode is called Meditation On Love and is by Kirk Osamayo. It is from the Free Music Archive, license type CC BY.

TIMESTAMPS

Introduction to the Episode (00:00)

Tangible Love Goals (00:09)

Visualization and Meditation Introduction (01:04)

Year-End Reflection (02:17)

Letting Go of Past Disappointments (04:09)

Visualizing a Hopeful Future (05:54)

The Concept of Grace (09:11)

Grace as a Game Changer (10:37)

Final Thoughts on Grace (11:53)

New Year Exercise (13:01)

Invitation for Feedback (14:36)

Closing Remarks (15:46)

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Damona shares reflections on the swiping stats from 2024 based on Tinder and Bumble trends from their year-end reports. Then she looks forward to the future to predict what you can expect in the world of dating and relationships in 2025. 

Are you feeling burned out on dating—like you’re giving so much but getting nothing back? Then join Damona on February 1st for a one-day virtual retreat - Fairy Tale Therapy, where you’ll reconnect with yourself and a community of hopeful daters who get it. Together, you’ll set powerful intentions for your love life, uncover new dating tools, and recharge your self-love battery so you can step into the new year with clarity and confidence. Apply asap, spaces are limited and each attendee will be hand-picked by Damona: DamonaHoffman.com/retreat

TIMESTAMPS

Introduction to Holiday Challenges (00:00)

Reflections on 2024 Trends (00:01)

Tinder Year in Swipe Report (00:02)

Vision Boards in Dating (00:04)

Bumble Global Dating Trends (00:05)

Micro Romance and Its Impact (00:05)

Community Building Through Content (00:08)

Emotional Stability in Relationships (00:12)

Guy BFFs as Influencers (00:13)

Predictions for 2025 (00:14)

The Year of the Woman (00:15)

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Laura Stassi, author and host of the Dating While Gray podcast, reveals how many of our dating challenges and solutions remain the same, regardless of age, gender, or sexuality. And Laura joins Damona for a special Dear Damona segment to answer your questions, like:

• I’d like to move to Tennessee and meet a Southern gentleman. Should I start dating long distance in the meantime?
• I have a medical issue that is lowering my self esteem. How can I move past this and begin dating again?

Listen to the Dating While Gray podcast wherever you get your podcasts and be sure to follow Laura on Instagram @DatingWhileGray

Ready to break free of your dating loops? Get Damona’s signature online program, The Dating Accelerator by visiting: DamonaHoffman.com/program

Submit your questions for Dear Damona on any of the socials @DamonaHoffman or by visiting DamonaHoffman.com

TIMESTAMPS

Introduction to the Episode (00:00:00)  

Guest Introduction (00:01:15)  

Laura's Background (00:02:19)  

Podcast Journey (00:05:41)  

Media Representation of Older Daters (00:06:21)  

Dating Trends and Challenges (00:10:34)  

Dating Attitudes Across Ages (00:11:57)  

Learning from Dating Experiences (00:14:04)  

Shifting Dating Etiquette (00:15:38)  

The rigidity of dating (00:16:16)  

Compromise in dating (00:17:22)  

Dating models and etiquette (00:18:36)  

Older daters' routines (00:19:47)  

Generosity in dating (00:20:46)  

Communication in dating (00:22:12)  

Meeting people offline (00:24:52)  

Overcoming fear of being alone (00:27:57)  

Reconnecting with past acquaintances (00:29:00)  

Long-distance dating considerations (00:31:01)  

Exploring Relocation for Love (00:31:59)  

Importance of Community (00:32:21)  

Dating as Discovery (00:34:13)  

Listener Question on Self-Esteem (00:36:20)  

Vulnerability in Sharing Challenges (00:37:26)  

Stigmas Around Health Issues (00:39:46)  

Navigating Disclosure in Dating (00:40:57)  

Redefining Sexual Intimacy (00:42:28)  

Intentional Dating Post-Pandemic (00:44:01)  

Comfort with Oneself (00:45:18)  

Closing Remarks and Resources (00:46:14)  

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Aleeza Ben Shalom, celebrity matchmaker of Netflix’s Jewish Matchmaking, shares actionable advice to help you find your path on this dating journey with wisdom from her new book “Matchmaker, Matchmaker: Find Me a Love That Lasts”. And the Dear Damona question this week is: What are the signs that someone is interested in you?

Pre-order your copy of Aleeza's new book, “Matchmaker, Matchmaker: Find Me a Love That Lasts”, by visiting: https://marriagemindedmentor.com/book/

And, follow Aleeza on Instagram @AleezaBenShalom!

Ready to break free of your dating loops? Get Damona’s signature online program, The Dating Accelerator by visiting: DamonaHoffman.com/program

Submit your questions for Dear Damona on any of the socials @DamonaHoffman or by visiting DamonaHoffman.com

TIMESTAMPS

Intro (00:00:00)  

Finding your personal dating playbook (00:01:03)  

Meet Aleeza Ben Shalom (00:02:14)  

Aleeza's journey as a matchmaker (00:02:50)  

Date them till you hate them (00:04:02)  

The three-date rule (00:05:30)  

Clarity in dating decisions (00:06:37)  

The importance of staying curious (00:07:25)  

Navigating difficult conversations (00:10:30)  

Rejection as a form of protection (00:13:20)  

The five-day challenge (00:14:42)  

Five Day Challenge Explained (00:15:04)

Clarifying the No Touching Rule (00:15:49)

Tips for the Challenge (00:16:36)

Importance of Connection in Dating (00:18:39)

Dating Dynamics and Tests (00:19:47)

Rules for Same-Sex Couples (00:20:33)

Calculating Relationship Compatibility (00:21:06)

Interests vs. Core Values (00:22:44)

Significance of Family Values (00:24:22)

Understanding Timelines in Relationships (00:26:53)

Self-Discovery in Dating (00:29:16)

The Five-Year Relationship Evolution (00:29:50)  

The 555 Dating Rule Explained (00:30:23)  

Building Momentum in Dating (00:31:04)  

Chemistry and Intentional Dating (00:34:13)  

Soulmate Clarity Concept (00:37:38)  

Navigating Workplace Relationships (00:40:41)  

Dating Gestures and Vibes (00:45:35)  

Small Moves in Dating (00:46:29)  

Attraction Beyond Age (00:47:22)  

Investing in Clear Signals (00:48:52)  

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This week’s episode is dedicated to YOU! The holidays are here, bringing all the cozy vibes, family gatherings, and… yep, those inevitable relationship questions. Damona answers all your pressing holiday love questions, from family expectations to finding romance under the mistletoe.She will answer your top questions like:

• I have been dating a wonderful man for 7 months now and STILL don’t feel a physical connection. Is it time to call it quits?
• I got ghosted after 4 months of dating, is it something I said?
• I am interested in some of the singles in my triathlon club. Do I shoot my shot or is it too risky?
• She made the reservation but then asked for my credit card to reimburse her the deposit. Is that a petty red flag?

Ready to break free of your dating loops? Get Damona’s signature online program, The Dating Accelerator by visiting: DamonaHoffman.com/program

Submit your questions for Dear Damona on any of the socials @DamonaHoffman or by visiting DamonaHoffman.com

TIMESTAMPS

Intro (00:00:00)  

Uncertainty in Relationships (00:00:01)  

Light-hearted Commentary (00:00:03)  

Holiday Dating Dilemmas (00:00:06)  

Listener's Voice Memo (00:01:55)  

Annie's Relationship Concerns (00:02:01)  

Ghosting After Four Months (00:07:58)  

Communication Issues in Relationships (00:09:00)  

Conflict Resolution Advice (00:12:22)  

Triathlon Club Dating Dilemma (00:16:24)  

Breaking the Ice in a Club (00:16:46)  

The Benefits of Physical Activity (00:17:18)  

Navigating Group Dynamics (00:19:50)  

Using Dating Apps (00:22:02)  

Addressing Gender Roles in Dating (00:23:55)  

Finding Common Ground (00:26:12)  

Preparing for Holiday Conversations (00:29:38)  

Closing Thoughts and Future Episodes (00:30:52) 

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Lauren Frances, Love and Relationships Expert, talks all about first dates from when they start (it’s not when you think) to how to graciously end one that’s just not working for you. And our Dear Damona question of the week is, “My match is great, not a single dealbreaker, and I STILL can’t wrap my head around commitment. What now?”

Want to join Lauren’s incredible Love Magnet Makeover? Just visit DamonaHoffman.com/lovemagnet

Submit your questions for Dear Damona on any of the socials @DamonaHoffman or by visiting DamonaHoffman.com

Timestamps

Intro (00:00:00)  

The First Date Starts Early (00:00:09)  

Preparation for First Dates (00:00:14)  

Value of First Dates (00:01:05)  

Introducing Lauren Francis (00:02:05)  

Persistence in Publishing (00:03:09)  

Timing in Dating (00:04:38)  

Transitioning to Phone Calls (00:05:53)  

Setting Up Phone Conversations (00:07:25)  

Importance of Privacy (00:09:10)  

Breaking the Ice (00:11:21)  

Choosing the Right Date Venue (00:12:18)  

Being Seen on Dates (00:13:06)  

Creating the Right Vibe (00:15:02)  

Understanding Enthusiasm in Dating (00:16:35)  

The Enthusiasm Gap (00:20:37)  

First Dates as Your Party (00:21:37)  

Heartache Prevention Tips (00:25:12)  

Compatibility and Actions Over Words (00:30:07)  

Ghosting and Relationship Alignment (00:31:02)  

Rejection Reasons (00:32:58)  

Ending Dates Positively (00:34:04)  

Creating a Great First Impression (00:35:02)  

Love Magnet Makeover Introduction (00:36:01)  

Details of Love Magnet Makeover (00:37:04)  

A Listener's Commitment Question (00:40:04)  

Navigating Relationship Fears (00:41:07)  

Understanding Commitment (00:42:19)  

Empowerment in Relationships (00:48:00)

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Dr. Alfiee, psychologist, host of the Couched in Color podcast and founder of the AAKOMA Project, dives into attachment styles, how depression can impact a partnership, and the ways our traumas and triggers can become unearthed in new relationships. Then this week’s Dear Damona question is: I married too young and stayed too long. Can you please help me get back into the dating game?

Ready to break free of your dating loops? Get Damona’s signature online program, The Dating Accelerator by visiting: DamonaHoffman.com/program

Submit your questions for Dear Damona on any of the socials @DamonaHoffman or by visiting DamonaHoffman.com

Timestamps

Introduction to the Episode (00:00:00)  

Attachment Styles Overview (00:00:59)  

Expectations in Relationships (00:03:30)  

The Desire to Change Partners (00:05:04)  

The Fantasy of Relationships (00:06:13)  

Effort vs. Work in Relationships (00:08:01)  

Unpacking Emotional Baggage (00:08:35)  

Understanding Attachment Styles (00:09:55)  

Cultural Context of Attachment (00:12:04)  

Personal Experiences with Attachment (00:14:23)  

Embracing Attachment Nuances (00:15:17)  

Understanding Family Dynamics and Attachment Styles (00:16:50)  

Personal Reflection on Attachment Styles (00:17:42)  

The Impact of Community on Relationships (00:18:26)  

Navigating Triggers in Relationships (00:19:55)  

Mental Health and Medication Statistics (00:20:37)  

Stigma Around Mental Health in Communities (00:22:13)  

Dating with Mental Health Challenges (00:23:05)  

Recognizing Deal Breakers in Relationships (00:23:43)  

Changing Attitudes Towards Therapy (00:25:51)  

Generational Differences in Mental Health Views (00:27:06)  

Healing from Trauma and Relationships (00:28:08)  

The Process of Healing and Trauma Management (00:30:25)  

Distinguishing Good and Bad Butterflies (00:32:22)  

The Importance of Self-Reflection Before Dating (00:33:14)  

Understanding Triggers in Relationships (00:33:50)

Disclosing Trauma in Relationships (00:35:17)

Trust and Safety in Sharing Trauma (00:36:12)

Empowerment in Relationships (00:38:17)

Unpopular Opinions on Relationships (00:39:46)

Finding a New Relationship After Marriage (00:41:23)

Going Where the People Are (00:43:24)

Strategic Socializing for Dating (00:45:38).

Creating Momentum in Dating (00:49:04)

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Whether you’re navigating cuffing season, gearing up to meet someone's family for the holidays, or figuring out how to take your dating game to the next level— Damona dedicates this week’s episode to YOU! She’s answering your toughest Dear Damona questions, like:

• I struggle to find matches in my area and while I am willing to travel, many men aren’t. So what now?
• My matches keep removing their profiles once we exchange numbers. What’s going on here?
• When should daters consider sleeping together?
• Are gender roles changing or do men still have to be the initiator?

Find Damona and submit your questions on any of the socials @DamonaHoffman or by visiting her website DamonaHoffman.com/contact

Bad news…we filled our last spot for the year. 

Good news!! We opened ONE BONUS for VIP coaching this fall. Last chance to get one on one coaching with Damona and her team. Want to snag our lucky last spot? Register for an intro call at DamonaHoffman.com/introcall asap!

TIMESTAMPS

Intro (00:00:00)

Does This Mean He Likes Me? (00:00:01)

Am I Ever Gonna Meet Someone? (00:00:04)

I'm Tired of Swiping (00:00:06)

Cuffing Season and Relationship Dynamics (00:00:08)

Adrian's Dating App Dilemma (00:01:43)

Changing Location Filters in Dating (00:04:25)

The Importance of Compatibility (00:05:39)

Long-Distance Relationship Insights (00:06:53)

Dating Apps and Long-Distance Features (00:09:24)

Caution Against Exchanging Phone Numbers (00:11:28)

Identifying Catfish and Scammers (00:12:38)

Maintaining Momentum in Communication (00:13:38)

Sue's Experience with Catfish (00:14:41)

Navigating Online Dating Safely (00:15:54)

Introduction to Possible Soulmates (00:17:59)

Guidelines for Intimacy (00:19:01)

Understanding Sexual Health (00:20:22)

Pacing Your Relationship (00:24:23)

Women Initiating Dates (00:25:28)

Mutual Interest in Dating (00:26:46)

Being True to Yourself (00:29:04)

Closing Remarks and Engagement (00:30:19)

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Esther Lee, Deputy Editor of The Knot, breaks down the stats released in the website’s Relationship & Intimacy Study, and spills the tea on where singles are finding love, what they’re actually looking for, how they’re spending their time on dates, and those dating dealbreakers we just can’t shake. And, this week’s Dear Damona question is: Is a bra an appropriate gift for a young couple?

Ready to break free of your dating loops? Get Damona’s signature online program, The Dating Accelerator at 10% off (for limited time only) using the code PODCAST10: DamonaHoffman.com/program

LAST CALL - Just 1 spot remains for the VIP one-on-one coaching program this year. Serious applicants should book an assessment call ASAP with our head of coaching programs: DamonaHoffman.com/introcall

Submit your questions for Dear Damona on any of the socials @DamonaHoffman or by visiting DamonaHoffman.com

Timestamps

Introduction to the Episode (00:00:00)

Damona's Welcome (00:00:13)

Introducing Esther Lee (00:01:04)

Damona's Personal Wedding Experience (00:02:11)

Evolution of Wedding Planning (00:02:49)

The Knot's 2024 Study Overview (00:03:46)

Key Findings of the Study (00:05:01)

Dating Apps vs. Real-Life Connections (00:05:54)

Generational Perspectives on Dating (00:06:41)

Changing Standards in Attraction (00:07:56)

Being Easy to Talk To (00:09:14)

Fostering Connection and Communication (00:09:47)

Listening as a Key Element (00:11:40)

The Chemistry Myth (00:12:10)

Importance of Sexual Attraction (00:12:59)

Married Couples and Sexual Chemistry (00:14:00)

Comfort and Chemistry in Relationships (00:15:54)

Commitment After Marriage (00:16:51)

Importance of Attraction (00:18:05)

Subjective Sense of Humor (00:19:29)

Humor as Relationship Tool (00:21:01)

Video Game Dates (00:21:48)

Meeting Through Gaming (00:24:00)

Creative and Affordable Dates (00:26:06)

Deal Breakers in Relationships (00:29:59)

Chemistry vs. Values (00:31:00)

Long Distance Relationships (00:32:48)

Communication in Long-Distance Relationships (00:33:14)

Intentionality in Relationships (00:34:05)

Finding Love Beyond Geography (00:35:36)

Unpopular Opinion on First Dates (00:37:17)

Navigating Intimate Gift Missteps (00:39:20)

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices