Podcasts about bfe

Coming up on this episode of Flirtations, we're joined by Dr. Lisa Wade, a sociologist, assistant professor at Tulane University, and the author of the landmark book American Hookup: The New Culture of Sex on Campus.  Her groundbreaking research draws from the intimate, real voices of college students and reveals that hookup culture isn't just about casual sex—it's a social system with its own rules, hierarchies, and pressures. We'll explore how this culture took hold and the surprising ways it shapes how we all date and connect cuz we all know hookup culture isn't limited to the college campus. We'll also look at trends, like why Gen-Z is having less sex than previous generations, how gender and power dynamics still influence intimacy, and what might be replacing the hookup script. So whether you've lived through hookup culture, opted out entirely, or are curious about how it's evolving today—this is a conversation about desire, connection, and the cultural forces that shape both. Let's do this Flirties, and meet Dr. Wade! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy, all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! Work with me! Take the FREE Flirt Styles Quiz Get INSTANT ACCESS to my anti-anxiety flirting and dating guide Download my FLIRTING AND TEXTING CONVERSATION GUIDE Grab my FREE Dating App Survival handbook Book your 1:1 Flirting Audit Ask the Flirt Coach Watch on YouTube About our guest:  Lisa Wade is an Associate Professor at Tulane University with appointments in Sociology and the Gender and Sexuality Studies Program. As a public-facing scholar, Lisa works to make her and others' scholarship engaging to a public audience. To this end, she is the author of American Hookup: The New Culture of Sex on Campus; an introduction to sociology titled Terrible Magnificent Sociology; a sociology of gender textbook, Gender: Ideas, Interactions, Institutions, with Myra Marx Ferree; and numerous research articles. Her newest book—a documentation of undergraduate social life during the pre-vaccine pandemic—will be published next year. You can find her online at lisa-wade.com, on Instagram at @lisawadephd, and on Bluesky at @lisawade.bsky.social. About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage. Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self. His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, Men's Health, and Yoga Journal. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, watch on YouTube, and stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.

“You mustn't be afraid to dream a little bigger, darling.” - It's a solo mission this week as Ian takes the lead in our 291st episode, descending through dreamscapes, spinning tops, and subconscious heists in Christopher Nolan's mind-bending Inception (2010). Liam, Megs, Kev, and Georgia? They're all trapped in deeper dream layers, and Ian's holding Level 1 until someone figures out how to kick them back to reality. We're trading banana peels and baseball anthems for snow fortresses and Paris folding in on itself as we discuss: Why Inception still stands as one of Nolan's most ambitious films—and whether the world has caught up to its complexity. Nolan is a genius of narrative construction, but are there times where genius needs governance to ensure the story remains accessible for the masses? Why do the subsequent dream layers respect the science required to access the first dream—and why do they stack so neatly when logic suggests they shouldn't? How Inception violates the golden rule of introducing a “superpower” (in this case, a key ability) and then never using it again for the rest of the movie. The art of lucid dreaming, and how being alone this week means Ian can finally reveal what his recurring dream looks like (spoiler: it involves movie theatres). Which dream layer steals the show—and which feels like the bathroom break level. The ongoing debate: does the ending mean something definitive, or is that missing the point? Why Inception works as both a blockbuster and an intimate story about loss, guilt, and letting go. How Hans Zimmer's score became a cultural event—and why the “BRAAAM” sound is still echoing through cinema today. And finally, whether Inception is the Best Film Ever—or just a beautiful puzzle box we'll keep spinning forever. Become a Patron of this podcast and support the BFE at https://www.patreon.com/BFE. We are extremely thankful to our following Patrons for their most generous support: Juleen from It Goes Down In The PM Hermes Auslander James DeGuzman Synthia Shai Bergerfroind Ariannah Who Loves BFE The Most Andy Dickson Chris Pedersen Duane Smith (Duane Smith!) Randal Silva Nate The Great Rev Bruce Cheezy (with a fish on a bike) Richard Ryan Kuketz Dirk Diggler Stew from the Stew World Order podcast NorfolkDomus John Humphrey's Right Foot Timmy Tim Tim Aashrey Buy some BFE merch at https://my-store-b4e4d4.creator-spring.com/. Massive thanks to Lex Van Den Berghe for the use of Mistake by Luckydog. Catch more from Lex's new band, The Maids of Honor, at https://soundcloud.com/themaidsofhonor. Also, massive thanks to Moonlight Social for our age game theme song. You can catch more from them at https://www.moonlightsocialmusic.com/.

Coming up on this episode of Flirtations, we're joined by the marvelous Lily Womble—a feminist dating coach, former top matchmaker, host of the Date Brazen podcast and author of Thank You, More Please: A Feminist Guide to Breaking Dumb Dating Rules and Finding Love.  Lily is on a mission to help us break free from the beliefs the patriarchy has embedded in our love lives—and to ask for more.  In this conversation, we talk about what it means to date as a feminist. We explore everything from how the patriarchy shapes modern dating culture to why so many women feel like they're “too much” and “not enough” at the same time.  We'll hear about Lily's experience dating as a self described late bloomer, we'll unravel the tension between wanting to be chosen and choosing for ourselves, how you can overcome a scarcity mindset - thoughts like, “It'll never happen for me!” - by harnessing the power of desire. We also get into black cat energy, the male gaze, and flirting, of course! So, whether you've ever felt behind in dating, struggled to believe you deserve more, or found yourself following traditional gender norms and yet it's not for you - you're going to want to hear this. Let's do this Flirties, and meet Lily! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy, all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! Work with me! Take the FREE Flirt Styles Quiz Get INSTANT ACCESS to my anti-anxiety flirting and dating guide Download my FLIRTING AND TEXTING CONVERSATION GUIDE Grab my FREE Dating App Survival handbook Book your 1:1 Flirting Audit Ask the Flirt Coach About our guest:  Lily Womble was one of the top matchmakers in the U.S. After setting up hundreds of first dates, she realized that with the right tools, high achieving women could match themselves better than anyone else ever could.  She started her company, Date Brazen, five years ago and has since helped thousands of women become their own expert matchmaker with her unconventional, intersectional feminist approach to dating.  She's on a mission to interrupt the patriarchal status quo found in the dating world to help women create love lives that are self-trust filled, settle-proof, and actively joyful.   She changes lives daily with her 85k+ TikTok community, Top 4 Relationship Podcast- The Date Brazen Podcast- , and sold-out coaching programs world-wide. She lives in Brooklyn with her fiancé, Chris. You can find out more about working with Lily here, buy Thank You, More Please, follow Lily on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, and stream the Date Brazen podcast. About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage. Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self. His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, Men's Health, and Yoga Journal. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.

Coming up on this episode of Flirtations, we're going straight to the source of transformation—the subconscious mind. Joining us for this conversation is Natalie Stavola, a certified hypnotherapist, coach, author, and speaker with a deeply personal story of healing—from addiction and self-sabotage to empowerment and purpose.  Natalie helps people rewire limiting beliefs, release emotional blocks, and rebuild the self-trust needed to experience relationships based on truth rather than pain. Inside the episode, we'll learn why your subconscious mind might be the very thing keeping you from what you want and how our earliest programming creates the beliefs we carry into adulthood. We're talking about what it means to date while stuck in survival mode, how shame and self-doubt can sabotage connection, how to identify our limiting beliefs, and finally, how to reprogram them. If you're ready to stop asking all the questions and instead start listening to yourself again… this one is for you.  Let's do this, Flirties, and meet Natalie! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy, all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! About our guest:  Natalie Stavola is a globally recognized career and dating coach who has helped over 3,000 people worldwide transform their lives. Known for her direct yet compassionate style, she specializes in helping men—especially those entering or navigating positions of power—develop emotional intelligence, shift internal power dynamics, and break free from limiting beliefs. Certified in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), coaching, and a degree in Psychology and Communications, Natalie empowers clients to access deeper self-worth, improve communication, and thrive in both their professional and romantic lives. Her coaching techniques have consistently produced fast, lasting results, attracting high-achieving individuals from all walks of life. She is also a #1 Amazon New Release author in the dating and relationships category. You can follow Natalie on Instagram, work with Natalie 1:1, and schedule a FREE 60 minute discovery call.  About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage. Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self. His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, Men's Health, and Yoga Journal. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.

You know we love our wrestling here at the BFE (well… some of us do). Join Ian as he's joined by Stew from the Stew World Order as we once again break format and lace up the boots for a deep dive into SummerSlam 2025. We're asking the big questions: were we fooled by a worked injury? Has Cody Rhodes finally stopped crying? Should Johnny Gargano and Candace LaRae be in couples counselling? What do you do when what's called "literal handcuffs" aren't actually handcuffs on a card that will have actual handcuffs later in the night? Why is SmackDown's tag roster so strong compared to Raw and the same for Raw's women's division vs Smackdown? How do we feel about the John Cena heel turn, it's subsequent babyface turn and the big surprise ending to both nights?  Plus, Ian reveals a punny future feud for Big Bronson Reed. We're unpacking all that and more from WWE SummerSlam 2025—and of course, we'll tell you whether you should SEE IT or SKIP IT. Hear so much more of Stew on his website - https://swoproductions.com/ and on his podcast:  Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stew-world-order/id1559913522 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6fLcKIHFrYBwMqhFryFMM6

“Nice beaver.” / “Thanks, I just had it stuffed.  Join Ian & B-Tech Kev for our 290th episode as we suit up, slip up, and dive headfirst into the gloriously ridiculous world of The Naked Gun (1988). We're trading time-travelling dystopias for banana peels, police files, and a barrage of visual gags as we discuss: In slapstick, how silly is too silly? Is there a line—or is the whole point to obliterate it with a steamroller and a tuba? Kev shares stories from his recent trip to New York City: the sights, the sounds, and whether each of us are New York or Los Angeles people Ian talks about the return of the weight game and how this is a summer of inward reflection Ian also shares some personal stories about his father—and how certain films like The Naked Gun carry more than just laughs; they carry memories. We explore Leslie Nielsen's genius—how his straight-faced absurdity became the gold standard for parody. Can a film this silly still resonate in today's comedy landscape? Or is this brand of humour an extinct species? Do background jokes, blink-and-you'll-miss-it sight gags, and tightly wound chaos make this more than just a spoof—Does it become precision parody? Baseball anthems, the Queen in peril, exploding toilets, and a police officer with the worst undercover skills in cinematic history. And finally, whether The Naked Gun is the Best Film Ever—or just a walk down memory lane Become a Patron of this podcast and support the BFE at https://www.patreon.com/BFE.

Coming up on this episode of Flirtations, we're joined by speaker, creative force, and bestselling author Amber Rae, author of Choose Wonder Over Worry and her new book, Loveable, One Woman's Path from Good to Free. In this memoir, Amber shares how one day, four years ago, while married, she looked into the eyes of a stranger and fell instantly in love. What ensues is a raw story about breaking up with her previous life, choosing herself, and following her intuition toward love. Inside the episode, Amber opens up about walking away from a safe but disconnected marriage, and finding the courage it takes to want more in a world where it's easier to settle. We talk about trusting your intuition, following desire, and how to recognize when you're bargaining with yourself to stay in something that no longer fits.  Amber shares what it means to ask the universe for a sign—and how we can listen? We'll hear about how she handled the judgement of leaving her marriage, what we can do with regrets, and ultimately how to know when it's time to walk awya. This conversation is an invitation to stop outsourcing your worth and start listening to your inner voice. Whether you're navigating a crossroads, healing from a breakup, or learning to trust yourself again—this episode will meet you there.  Alright Flirties, let's do this, and meet Amber Rae. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy, all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! About our guest:  Amber Rae is a bestselling author and speaker best known for books Choose Wonder Over Worry and The Answers Are Within You. She's also the creator of The Feelings Journal, a tool that transforms the way you engage with your emotions. Her writing and illustrations reach 9M people per month, and her work has been featured in publications such as The New York Times, New York Magazine, TODAY, SELF, Fortune, Forbes, and Entrepreneur. As a keynote speaker and teacher, Amber has worked with companies such as Kate Spade, Meta, Microsoft, and TED. Amber lives in New York with her husband and son. Preorder Loveable, then learn more about Amber Rae on her website and Instagram. About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage. Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self. His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, Men's Health, and Yoga Journal. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.

You know what Flirties, I have a question for you. Have you ever met someone and just knew they were the one? Maybe it was instant chemistry, maybe it was a slow burn, or maybe it was heartbreak that cracked you open in a way nothing else ever had? Well today, we're diving into the soul-level stuff—those invisible forces that draw us to each other, shape our relationships, and sometimes, break us apart. Joining us for this episode of Flirtations is the luminous Danny Santos, a spiritual guide, psychic medium, and the intuitive heart behind @santoscrystalvisions on Instagram, to have a conversation with us about soulmates, twin flames, karmic connections, and timing in dating. What does it mean when we feel an undeniable connection with someone? How do we know if it's love… or a lesson? Is timing really everything?  And what if—maybe the hardest question of all—what if I feel like we already met our soulmate and it didn't work out? What if the love of my life has already come and gone… will I find love again? Flirty, of course it will. We're hopeful romantics here on Flirtations! We'll also talk about dating karma, the invisible string theory, and why some connections feel written in the stars—even if they never find a forever. We'll untangle how to recognize when you're stuck in a cycle and how to clear your energy so you can call in the kind of love that truly aligns. This one is soulful, expansive, and a little bit witchy—in the best way. Whether you're in the middle of something cosmic, letting go of something karmic, or waiting for the universe to catch up… this conversation is for you. So take a deep breath, Flirties, and settle in—because we're gonna get very real about spiritual connection and the sometimes messy, but always magical road to love. Let's do this Flirties, and meet Danny! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy, all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! About our guest:  Danny Santos is the Astrologer, Psychic Medium, and Integrative Healer behind Santos & The Crystal Visions. With 20 years of study in the cosmos, Danny's expertise blends the magic of astrology with tarot, reiki, breathwork and psychic mediumship. His repertoire also extends to Ayahuasca shamanism and plant medicine.  Danny has a unique astrological approach. He is an Archetypal Astrologer, which means he intertwines astrology expertise with the psychoanalytic theories of Freud, Jung, and Lacan, providing astrological insights that heal, clarify, and foster a connection to our collective consciousness. Trained as a shaman under Don Enrique Lopez-Fasanando of the Shipibo lineage in Peru, Danny has mastered advanced shamanic techniques, including icaros and plant spirit communication, enriching his holistic approach to healing and spirituality. He is a trained psychic medium under Colby Rebel—his mentor who was voted Los Angeles' best psychic in 2022—and hosts the Astro Daddy Podcast, where he explores astrology, shamanism, plant medicine, and other spiritual topics with his guests. Danny has contributed his insights to outlets like The New York Post, Refinery29, Bustle, and Well+Good, as well as podcasts such as Dates & Mates with Damona Hoffman (the dating coach for The Drew Barrymore Show), Broke Girl Therapy, and The Double Teamed Podcast. Most recently, he was the resident astrologer for luxury resort MUSA in Zihuantanejo, Mexico.  Danny is a fervent advocate for mental health and has been featured and works with The National Alliance on Mental Illness as well as Pineapple Support, a non-profit organization that specializes in bringing mental health support to the people of the adult entertainment industry. He is currently preparing to work with veterans, survivors of human trafficking, and people with PTSD.  In his free time, Danny writes music and sings. You can hear his first single, “Poppies For Edwin,” on Spotify. You can follow Danny on Instagram and TikTok. About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage. Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self. His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, Men's Health, and Yoga Journal. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.

“Welcome to Costco. I love you.” Join your favourite TransAtlantic podcasting crew – Ian & Liam – with BFF of the BFE: Synthia beaming in from the not-so-distant future as we crack open the absurd, prophetic, and depressingly accurate Idiocracy (2006). We're trading shark-infested waters for Gatorade-irrigated crops and President Camacho in our 289th episode as we ask: Was Idiocracy always this smart, or has the world just gotten that dumb? We explore how a film that bombed at release has somehow become the most referenced dystopia not named Orwell. What does it say about society that Mike Judge's lowbrow future doesn't seem that far off? Synthia breaks down the subtle and not-so-subtle satire—and why this film still hits different in a post-algorithm world. Ian wonders whether the comedy lands… or whether it's just too bleak to laugh anymore. Liam confesses which part of the film made him physically cringe (hint: it's not just the opening montage). We talk about the difference between satire and smugness, and where Idiocracy walks that tightrope. Is the film's central conceit plausible… or offensively oversimplified? With the film's conceit being that everyone is stupid, are we allowed to get frustrated with the tone for being too stupid? Why Terry Crews as President Camacho might be the most pitch-perfect casting choice in a dystopian comedy ever. What modern products or trends Idiocracy weirdly predicted (we're looking at you, reality TV and clickbait). And finally, whether Idiocracy is the Best Film Ever—or just the most important film people still haven't seen. Become a Patron of this podcast and support the BFE at https://www.patreon.com/BFE. We are extremely thankful to our following Patrons for their most generous support: Juleen from It Goes Down In The PM Hermes Auslander James DeGuzman Synthia Shai Bergerfroind Ariannah Who Loves BFE The Most Andy Dickson Chris Pedersen Duane Smith (Duane Smith!) Randal Silva Nate The Great Rev Bruce Cheezy (with a fish on a bike) Richard Ryan Kuketz Dirk Diggler Stew from the Stew World Order podcast NorfolkDomus John Humphrey's Right Foot Timmy Tim Tim Aashrey Buy some BFE merch at https://my-store-b4e4d4.creator-spring.com/. Massive thanks to Lex Van Den Berghe for the use of Mistake by Luckydog. Catch more from Lex's new band, The Maids of Honor, at https://soundcloud.com/themaidsofhonor. Also, massive thanks to Moonlight Social for our age game theme song. You can catch more from them at https://www.moonlightsocialmusic.com/.  

Editor - Yan Miles ACE, BFE Andor editor Yan Miles partly attributes the decision not to extensively use the Stagecraft "volume" technology as the reason why his series has a distinctly different look and feel to other shows under the Star Wars banner. Instead, Andor leans into real-world environments, capturing the grit and authenticity that Yan believes enhances the narrative. Another significant factor in that differentiation is Tony Gilroy's writing, where the narrative complexity lies. Despite knowing the ultimate fate of characters like Cassian Andor, the series thrives on the uncertainty surrounding minor characters and their arcs. It's in these uncharted territories that the tension in Andor finds its heartbeat. Season 2 of Andor continues the chronicling of Cassian Andor's journey as he becomes a key figure in the burgeoning Rebel Alliance against the Galactic Empire. The season covers the four years leading up to the events of Rogue One, with each arc spanning a year.  Yan Miles ACE, BFE Yan Miles ACE, BFE is an acclaimed film and television editor whose work spans some of the most prestigious and visually dynamic series of the last decade. A member of both American Cinema Editors and British Film Editors, Yan has brought his keen sense of story and rhythm to internationally celebrated productions such as The Crown, Sherlock, and Game of Thrones. Known for his ability to blend emotional nuance with bold editorial choices, his work has helped define the tone and texture of modern prestige television.   The Credits Visit ExtremeMusic for all your production audio needs Streamline your postproduction pipeline with Shade See which model of Avid Media Composer is right for you Subscribe to The Rough Cut podcast and never miss an episode Visit The Rough Cut on YouTube

Coming up on this episode of Flirtations, we're talking practical optimism and how this grounded, science-backed approach can help guide us toward more fulfilling connections and loving relationships. Joining us for this conversation is Dr. Sue Varma, a board-certified psychiatrist, clinical assistant professor at NYU, and the author of Practical Optimism: The Art, Science, and Practice of Exceptional Well-Being. Her work has helped countless people navigate trauma, stress, and uncertainty—and today, she's helping us bring more purpose and emotional resilience into our dating lives. In this conversation, we unpack what it really means to be optimistic in a world that doesn't always make it easy. We talk about why it's so hard to be alone, but how we can do just that without giving in to loneliness.  We explore how we can stop comparing ourselves to other people, how we can find purpose in small, everyday moments, and why empathy is so important to true, genuine connection. We also ask questions like, "Is happiness a choice?" "Can we train our brains to think bigger and love deeper?" And, "What does it mean to be a practical optimist?" If you're struggling to keep the hope alive out there dating or are having a hard time believing in yourself, you don't want to miss this episode! Dr. Varma's work has sincerely changed my own life in my longtime battle with depression and I hope that by the end of this episode, if you're having a hard time in your life, things will get just a bit easier. Alright Flirties, let's do this, and meet Dr. Sue Varma! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy, all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! About our guest:  Dr. Sue Varma is a board-certified psychiatrist and distinguished fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, with over 20 years of experience in both private practice and as a clinical assistant professor at NYU Langone Health. A trailblazer in her field, she was the inaugural medical director of NYU's 9/11 mental health program, earning a Mayoral Proclamation for her groundbreaking contributions. Dr. Varma is a highly sought-after keynote speaker and national medical commentator, regularly featured on leading platforms like the Today Show, Good Morning America, CBS Mornings, The NY Times, WSJ, Washington Post, along with documentaries and primetime specials, where her expertise has earned her 13 nominations and two Sharecare Emmy Awards. Honored as one of the world's top five leading health experts by Global Citizen for her pandemic work, and the Ivan Goldberg Award for Outstanding Service, Dr. Varma now brings her insights on mental wellness to a global audience with her acclaimed book Practical Optimism: The Art, Science, and Practice of Exceptional Wellbeing, being translated in a dozen languages and counting. To learn more about Dr. Varma and her work, please check out Instagram and www.drsuevarma.com. About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage. Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self. His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, Men's Health, and Yoga Journal. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.

Coming up on this episode of Flirtations, we're crossing the pond and getting into it with none other than Tom Stroud!  You may know Tom from Season 1 of Love Is Blind UK and his podcast Why Do Men…? and today, we're going beyond the pods as we talk about what it was really like dating through a wall and how vulnerability, oddly enough, came more easily without eye contact or seeing who you're talking to. Tom also shares what it was like forming friendships in the men's suite, how those behind-the-scenes bonds shaped the experience, and what it taught him about connection — not just romantically, but also about making friends with other guys. Tom opens up about his past dating patterns, how he's unlearning lovebombing and forming more secure attachments rather than avoidant ones, why “checking the boxes” was actually limiting him in his love life, and the inspiration behind his podcast Why Do Men…? and his men's group Shoulder to Shoulder. We've also got some flirting tips, of course!, for the fellas and the ladies out there dating in real life and how you can make a move with more confidence. So, if you're curious to go behind the scenes of Love is Blind and learn more about connection and vulnerability in relationships, this one is for you! Let's do this Flirties, and meet Tom! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy, all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! About our guest:  Tom Stroud, relationship content creator and host of Why Do Men, the podcast exploring male behaviour in dating and relationships. You can follow Tom on Instagram: www.instagram.com/stroudtom. About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage. Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self. His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, Men's Health, and Yoga Journal. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.

“You're gonna need a bigger boat.” Join your favourite TransAtlantic podcasting crew – Ian & Megs – as we head out to sea with special guest Carlo from The Movie Loot for our 288th episode, diving deep into Steven Spielberg's blockbuster breakthrough Jaws (1975). We're trading crane kicks for chum buckets and mechanical shark mishaps as we discuss: The real-life beef between Richard Dreyfuss and Robert Shaw—method acting, ego clashes, and barbed insults at sea. Spielberg's first reaction to hearing the now-iconic Jaws theme from John Williams… and why he thought it was a joke. Just how crucial it is to find an actress who can tick all the boxes—especially when it comes to screaming convincingly. The urban legend behind the film's POV shots—and whether the broken shark really made the film better. Is the actual shark reveal a thrilling payoff… or a rubbery letdown? We break down whether it holds water. We all agreed it's a film of two halves—but did we agree on which half was better? Would Jaws still work with a female character in one (or more) of the core trio? We explore casting, gender dynamics, and cabin tension. How many big screams should a film have? Is there a magic number—or do we just love that head-in-the-boat moment too much? Does Brody have the worst wife ever for casually revealing his deepest fear to a total stranger at dinner? The key changes from the Peter Benchley novel—and why most of them were for the better (goodbye, mafia subplot). Why Spielberg was convinced he'd never work again after Jaws—and how it nearly swallowed his career whole before making him a legend. And finally, whether Jaws is the Best Film Ever.   Catch so much more of Carlo on The Movie Loot on Apple Podcasts at https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-movie-loot/id1578191119 or on Spotify at https://open.spotify.com/show/4o5ZvtvZ64XAoxIIxiAj1q   Become a Patron of this podcast and support the BFE at https://www.patreon.com/BFE. We are extremely thankful to our following Patrons for their most generous support: Juleen from It Goes Down In The PM Hermes Auslander James DeGuzman Synthia Shai Bergerfroind Ariannah Who Loves BFE The Most Andy Dickson Chris Pedersen Duane Smith (Duane Smith!) Randal Silva Nate The Great Rev Bruce Cheezy (with a fish on a bike) Richard Ryan Kuketz Dirk Diggler Stew from the Stew World Order podcast NorfolkDomus John Humphrey's Right Foot Timmy Tim Tim Aashrey Buy some BFE merch at https://my-store-b4e4d4.creator-spring.com/. Massive thanks to Lex Van Den Berghe for the use of Mistake by Luckydog. Catch more from Lex's new band, The Maids of Honor, at https://soundcloud.com/themaidsofhonor. Also, massive thanks to Moonlight Social for our age game theme song. You can catch more from them at https://www.moonlightsocialmusic.com/.

Coming up on this episode of Flirtations, we're joined by breakup recovery and relationship coach Lucy Price, who is here to help us turn heartbreak into healing and a breakup into a breakthrough! If you've ever found yourself crying on Facetime with your friend, rereading old texts, stalking your ex's socials, or wondering how the hell you're supposed to move on when it wasn't supposed to end this way—stay tuned! Whether you've been ghosted, blindsided by someone going back to their ex, trying to figure out how “the one” got away or just can't stop replaying the “what ifs,” Lucy is here to help you move forward—not by pretending it didn't hurt, but by learning process a painful experience. Inside the episode, we talk about the different ways we can get stuck in a breakup, why we might keep going back to our ex, how to stop chasing closure, how to let go of the fantasy (not just the person), and how to tell the difference between real healing and a really good distraction. We'll explore how to rebuild self-trust when your picker feels broken and how to know when you're ready to date again, and how heartbreak might just be your biggest breakthrough yet. If you're tired of feeling not enough, still hung up on someone who didn't show up, or you're just craving some clarity and closure, this episode is for you! Let's do the Flirties, and meet Lucy! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy, all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! About our guest:  Lucy Price is a breakup recovery and relationship coach specializing in helping individuals heal from heartbreak, rebuild confidence, and create fulfilling lives—with or without a partner. Having supported over a hundred clients in the past three years, Lucy blends compassionate guidance with practical strategies to navigate breakups, foster self-love, and gain clarity for the future. Her approach empowers clients to move forward with confidence and embrace their next chapter. Learn more about Lucy and coaching opportunities on her website, listen to the Breakups and Breakthroughs Podcast, and check out more content on Instagram and TikTok. About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage. Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self. His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, Men's Health, and Yoga Journal. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.

Coming up on this episode of Flirtations, we're joined by Israa Nasir, a psychotherapist, speaker, mental health advocate, creator of the digital platform Well Guide, and author of the brilliant new book Toxic Productivity, here today to have a conversation with us about what it means to feel enough in a world that constantly tells us otherwise. Inside the episode, we're exploring how hustle culture and the need to always be doing something not only impacts our careers, but also how we love and date.  We'll talk about the sometimes invisible pressure to check every box and make things work, and we'll look at how comparison, perfectionism, and rushing intimacy can keep us stuck in dating loops that leave us anxious - and yet wanting more. Israa shares insights on how family and cultural expectations shape our relationships, and how we can honor our roots while still choosing ourselves.  We also get into vulnerability vs. oversharing, why external validation isn't the enemy, and how curiosity, not criticism, is the key to dating with more clarity and self-compassion. So if you've ever felt like dating was just another performance, like you're behind in this unspoken race to be partnered, or like your "enoughness" is waiting to be confirmed by someone else, this one is for you! Let's do the Flirties, and meet Israa! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy, all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! About our guest:  Israa Nasir is a psychotherapist, keynote speaker, and author of Toxic Productivity: Reclaim Your Time and Energy in a World That Always Demands More. She is the founder of @well.guide, a digital mental health platform with a community of over 350,000, where she shares evidence-based insights on emotional wellbeing, burnout, and the psychology of achievement in a culture that often demands constant output. Israa has been a featured speaker at global stages including SXSW, the Mental Health America National Conference, and the Asia Society, and has led workplace wellbeing initiatives at companies such as Google, Microsoft, Meta, and Bloomberg. She has also delivered talks and workshops at Yale University and other leading academic institutions. Her work has been featured in Time, Forbes, Harvard Business Review, and Axios. About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage. Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self. His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, and Yoga Journal. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.

“Wax on, wax off.” Join your favourite TransAtlantic podcasting crew – Ian, Liam, and the triumphant return of Megs (Kev's still away… last seen jogging up a hill in a grey tracksuit muttering “No mercy”) – as we crane kick our way into our 287th episode, tackling the inspirational, emotional, and occasionally questionable The Karate Kid (1984). We're trading crystal fortresses for dojo face-offs and dusty training montages as we discuss: Does Daniel LaRusso bring most of his problems onto himself? We break down whether he's the underdog—or the instigator. What is the difference between a cute girl and a hot girl? And where does Elizabeth Shue's Alli fall on the spectrum of '80s love interests? Does Ralph Macchio wear one of the all-time worst Halloween costumes in movie history? (Spoiler: Yes. Yes, he does.) Can you really learn black belt-level karate in just a few weeks? Or did Daniel unlock cheat codes under Mr. Miyagi's tutelage? Ian goes to war with the score—and one particular song that just doesn't belong. The film suggests America was batty about soccer in the '80s. Was that true… or just wishful screenwriting? Why the studio was reluctant to cast Pat Morita as Mr. Miyagi—and how he proved them all spectacularly wrong. Ian finds a way to shave 10 minutes off the runtime—Miyagi would approve of the efficiency. Why does Daniel's mother uproot their entire life for a job that seems… deeply underwhelming? Does Daniel deserve Alli in the end—or was she just too good for this drama-prone karate kid? We wax (lyrically) on and off about themes, nostalgia, and tournament ethics. And finally, whether The Karate Kid is the Best Film Ever. Become a Patron of this podcast and support the BFE at https://www.patreon.com/BFE. We are extremely thankful to our following Patrons for their most generous support: Juleen from It Goes Down In The PM Hermes Auslander James DeGuzman Synthia Shai Bergerfroind Ariannah Who Loves BFE The Most Andy Dickson Chris Pedersen Duane Smith (Duane Smith!) Randal Silva Nate The Great Rev Bruce Cheezy (with a fish on a bike) Richard Ryan Kuketz Dirk Diggler Stew from the Stew World Order podcast NorfolkDomus John Humphrey's Right Foot Timmy Tim Tim Aashrey Buy some BFE merch at https://my-store-b4e4d4.creator-spring.com/. Massive thanks to Lex Van Den Berghe for the use of Mistake by Luckydog. Catch more from Lex's new band, The Maids of Honor, at https://soundcloud.com/themaidsofhonor. Also, massive thanks to Moonlight Social for our age game theme song. You can catch more from them at https://www.moonlightsocialmusic.com/.

Coming up on this episode of Flirtations, Flirties, we're joined by one of Australia's most sought-after dating coaches — it's Mark Rosenfeld. He's one of Australia's top dating and relationship experts, author of the book Make Him Yours: Beating the Odds of Modern Dating, and over the course of his career, he's coached more than 50,000 women in love, dating, and connection. We start the episode with Mark's story of going from shy guy to stripper (yes, you heard that right!), and how stepping into that unexpected world helped him overcome social anxiety and learn the art of flirting. Then we get into your dating questions as Mark shares how men and women date differently and what each gender wishes the other understood. We'll hear about why the apps aren't all that bad and how to make intentional invitations that create real-life dates — without chasing. And yes, we even talk about that one time Mark went undercover as a woman on dating apps to find out: what are the men doing? How can women actually get more of what they want? And why do women tend to date potential more than men? Mark brings a unique perspective to the dating game having coached both men and women for over a decade, and let's just say, he has seen it all. So, whether you're curious about some psychology and dating dynamics, wondering how to make stronger romantic connections, or just want to hear Mark's story of personal transformation—this episode is for you! Let's do the Flirties, and meet Mark! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy, all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! About our guest:  Mark Rosenfeld is one of Australia's leading dating and relationship coaches and the founder of Make Him Yours. With a background in psychology and a past life as a professional dancer (yes, really!), Mark brings a unique approach to modern dating. Through his coaching, bestselling book Make Him Yours: Beating the Odds of Modern Dating, and massively popular YouTube channel, he's helped over 50,000 women build confidence, understand men, and create meaningful relationships.  About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage. Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self. His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, and Yoga Journal. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.

Coming up on this episode of Flirtations, we're talking all things queer and gay dating with the incredible Nathan Serrato! Nathan is a trauma-informed coach and host of the Queer Conscious podcast, helping LGBTQ+ individuals and couples build thriving, intentional relationships rooted in self-worth, communication, and emotional intimacy. Inside the episode, we explore the beautifully complex, sometimes messy, and yet always real world of queer dating.  We talk about the “Queer Crossroads” and how to navigate that blurry line between friends, flings, dates, sex, and more. We get into meeting in real life vs. online, and how to flirt while staying grounded and authentic. We'll also talk about breakups within friend groups and social cirlces, monogamy and open relationships, the concept of a second adolescence, and how to handle dating when it feels more like a search for validation than a path to true connection. Nathan also shares his insights around body image in our swipe culture, what to do when dating apps feel more exhausting than exciting, and how to build the kind of queer connection that feels safe, sexy, and fun. Finally, we'll touch on mental health, the importance of friendships, how to make friends, and how we can love ourselves, perhaps, a little bit more. So, whether you're new to queer dating, have been around the block and back, or are just curious (hello, straights!), this episode has something for you. Let's do the Flirties, and meet Nathan! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy, all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! About our guest:  Nathan Serrato, PCC (he/him) is a Queer Love Coach and founder of Queer Conscious. Through coaching, courses, and community, Nathan helps LGBTQ+ individuals and couples build thriving, intentional relationships rooted in self-worth, communication, and emotional intimacy. His somatic approach offers lasting transformation, while his expertise in communication allows him to mediate between partners and guide them toward alignment, understanding, and tangible solutions. Whether you're dating, deepening a partnership, or healing from past relationships, Nathan offers a grounded space for growth and connection. Learn more at www.queerconscious.com or Instagram: @queerconscious. About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage. Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self. His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, Men's Health, and Yoga Journal. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.  

“You'll believe a man can fly.” Join your favourite TransAtlantic podcasting duo – Ian & Liam (Megs couldn't make it—she's busy spinning the Earth backwards to reclaim her weekend while KevDog's off searching for crystals in the Arctic... or just stuck in a phone booth with no signal - as we don the cape, slick back the hair, and fly faster than a speeding bullet into our 286th episode, reviewing Richard Donner's iconic superhero origin story Superman (1978). We're trading classical guitars and military trenches for red trunks and crystal fortresses as we discuss: We look at how Superman redefined the superhero genre before it was a genre—and why it still matters nearly 50 years later. Why Christopher Reeve may be the most perfectly cast superhero of all time, and how his dual performance still holds up. Ian dives into the film's structure and why the three-act split (Krypton, Kansas, Metropolis) feels so bold and ambitious. We condemn and then forgive Teen Clark (Jeff East) and  do likewise for Brando but without the forgiveness at the end We discuss whether Lex Luthor is a credible villain—or just a walking punchline with a killer property portfolio. Liam marvels at the charm, the score, and the genuine sense of wonder—while struggling not to get emotional about Pa Kent. We ask: does the “reverse time” ending still fly? Or is that where the cape starts to fray? And of course: whether Superman (1978) is the Best Film Ever. Become a Patron of this podcast and support the BFE at https://www.patreon.com/BFE. We are extremely thankful to our following Patrons for their most generous support: Juleen from It Goes Down In The PM Hermes Auslander James DeGuzman Synthia Shai Bergerfroind Ariannah Who Loves BFE The Most Andy Dickson Chris Pedersen Duane Smith (Duane Smith!) Randal Silva Nate The Great Rev Bruce Cheezy (with a fish on a bike) Richard Ryan Kuketz Dirk Diggler Stew from the Stew World Order podcast NorfolkDomus John Humphrey's Right Foot Timmy Tim Tim Aashrey Buy some BFE merch at https://my-store-b4e4d4.creator-spring.com/. Massive thanks to Lex Van Den Berghe for the use of Mistake by Luckydog. Catch more from Lex's new band, The Maids of Honor, at https://soundcloud.com/themaidsofhonor. Also, massive thanks to Moonlight Social for our age game theme song. You can catch more from them at https://www.moonlightsocialmusic.com/.

Coming up on this episode of Flirtations, we're welcoming someone whose work has helped thousands of people move from stuck to aligned, it's the brilliant Britt Frank. A licensed neuropsychotherapist, trauma specialist, speaker, and bestselling author of The Science of Stuck and her brand-new book Align Your Mind, her insights have been featured in NPR, Forbes, The New York Times, and Esquire—and today, she's here with us, Flirties! In this episode, we're getting into the nitty gritty of the mind—what it means to work with our inner world, the origin of our inner critic, and how our nervous systems play a huge role in dating, self-worth, and how we connect with others.  We'll talk about Internal Family Systems therapy, the power of parts work, and how the anxious part, avoidant part, or people-pleaser within us might be running the show more than we think, and what we can do about it. Britt helps us understand why we sometimes get stuck in patterns we know aren't good for us, she's got a reframe on self-sabotage and after this, you might start calling it traumatized intuition, we'll talk about why change is hard (but totally possible), and how our past experiences and traumas might be shaping the way we date today. Whether you're navigating indecision, struggling with attachment, or wondering why the same relationship themes keep popping up—this episode is packed with science, soul, and practical strategies to help you get unstuck and move forward with confidence. Let's do this, Flirties, and meet Britt Frank. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy, all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! About our guest:  Britt Frank, LSCSW, SEP is a licensed neuropsychotherapist, speaker, and author of The Science of Stuck and Align Your Mind. She received her BA from Duke University and her master's from the University of Kansas, where she later became an award-winning instructor. Britt is a contributing writer for Psychology Today and her work has been featured in the New York Times, Forbes, NPR, and New York Magazine.  You can connect with Britt on Instagram, LinkedIn, and on her website, www.brittfrank.com. About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage. Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self. His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, and Yoga Journal. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.

Coming up on this episode of Flirtations, we're getting intimate—literally—with certified sex and intimacy coach, Court Vox. Court is the founder of The Body Vox , a somatic sex educator and has been featured in Vogue, Men's Health, Allure, The New York Post, and more.  He's worked with individuals and couples all over the world, helping them build deeper awareness in their bodies, relationships, and erotic selves. In today's conversation, we're exploring what intimacy really looks like—beyond just the physical—including emotional, intellectual, and even spiritual forms of connection. Court walks us through tools to build somatic awareness and helps us understand how to build intimacy in a way that feels safe, grounded, and honest. From breathwork to intentional touch, vulnerability to building trust, we'll talk about the practices and barriers that shape our ability to truly connect. We'll also tackle some of your burning questions—like: Should you have sex on a first date? Is texting killing the vibe or helping you build connection? Where does attraction really come from? And is attachment really such a bad thing? (Spoiler: it's not. And Court's going to tell us why.) If you've ever struggled with mixed signals, perfectionism, hookup fatigue, or fear of intimacy, this one's going to reframe the way you think about dating and connection. So, whether you're craving more closeness, working through fear, or just curious how to build stronger connections in your next relationship or casual connection, this one's for you! Let's do the Flirties, and meet Court! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy, all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! About our guest:  Court Vox is a Somatic Sex & Intimacy Coach, Surrogate Partner, and the Founder of The BodyVox. Through his courses, workshops, retreats, and private immersions, he helps clients overcome limitations and shame, fostering deeper intimacy and connection with their whole selves. At The BodyVox, Court Vox offers 1:1 sessions, workshops, and retreats worldwide, including specialized programs for GBTQ men. His online course and community, Invitations to Intimacy, provides a framework for erotic embodiment alongside a supportive network of like-minded individuals. He is also part of the celebrated program for women, Back to the Body, where he collaborates with an elite team of sex educators to guide transformative experiences for women.  Certified through governing organizations such as the Somatic Sex Education Association (SSEA), the Association of Sexological Bodyworkers (ACSB), the International Professional Surrogate Association (IPSA), and Urban Tantra, he combines his certifications with ongoing studies in rope bondage, modern hypnotherapy, breathwork, and movement practices.  As a sex educator, Vox has worked with clients of all sexualities and genders. His work has been featured in The New York Times, Men's Health, Out Magazine, Vogue, AskMen, Cosmopolitan, Well & Good and more.  For more information, visit www.thebodyvox.com. About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage. Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self. His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, and Yoga Journal. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.

“Bayan o sarili?” Join your favourite TransAtlantic podcasting duo – Ian & Liam – as we ride into revolution and betrayal in our 285th episode, tackling the powerful, patriotic, and provocative Heneral Luna (2015). We're later joined by BFF of the BFE Juleen, as we trade chequered flags for sabres and cigar smoke while we discuss: Ian shares a personal story about how his perspective on film shifted dramatically this week—and why Heneral Luna hit harder than expected. We talk about rediscovering old hobbies and how sometimes history—and a great movie—can reignite forgotten passions. We've got some big BFE cast news to share—don't worry, no one got court-martialed. Was Antonio Luna an epic figure… but a deeply unlikeable man? We break down the myth and the man. At what point do patriotism and ego diverge—especially in military leadership? And how much of Luna's downfall was self-inflicted? Why is this vital and volatile chapter of Filipino history completely absent from most American history books? Juleen joins us with powerful insights from her time living in Southern California and how Heneral Luna resonates against today's shifting political tides. Our Rodecaster decides to go full rebellion, jumping ship mid-episode—more than once. What's with all the Jesus imagery? From framing to posture to betrayal, Luna doesn't hold back. One scene left Ian absolutely gobsmacked—he didn't see it coming, and we're still picking our jaws off the floor. Why did troop movements in this film feel like Season 8 of Game of Thrones? Can we get a map? Are Americans great marksmen… or hilariously awful? And what made standing up in battle a form of actual camouflage? Whether Heneral Luna is the Best Film Ever—or just the best film you've never heard of. Become a Patron of this podcast and support the BFE at https://www.patreon.com/BFE. We are extremely thankful to our following Patrons for their most generous support: Juleen from It Goes Down In The PM Hermes Auslander James DeGuzman Synthia Shai Bergerfroind Ariannah Who Loves BFE The Most Andy Dickson Chris Pedersen Duane Smith (Duane Smith!) Randal Silva Nate The Great Rev Bruce Cheezy (with a fish on a bike) Richard Ryan Kuketz Dirk Diggler Stew from the Stew World Order podcast NorfolkDomus John Humphrey's Right Foot Timmy Tim Tim Aashrey Buy some BFE merch at https://my-store-b4e4d4.creator-spring.com/. Massive thanks to Lex Van Den Berghe for the use of Mistake by Luckydog. Catch more from Lex's new band, The Maids of Honor, at https://soundcloud.com/themaidsofhonor. Also, massive thanks to Moonlight Social for our age game theme song. You can catch more from them at https://www.moonlightsocialmusic.com/.

Coming up on this episode of Flirtations is the iconic Rebecca More! Adult industry legend, one-half of the unforgettable Cock Destroyers, star of Slag Wars, and soon competing in an Ironman, today we're going beyond fame to talk about reinvention. In this conversation, Rebecca shares her journey of stepping away from porn and adult work, grieving the loss of her dear friend Sophie, and navigating what life looks like now.  We talk about confidence, change, and why it's never too late to choose a new path—or to discover an entirely new version of yourself.  Rebecca shares how she stays playful, how she keeps evolving, and how we can embrace change no matter what phase of life we're in. We'll also hear some flirting tips, Rebecca's thoughts on her gay icon status, and what it's like training for an Ironman! So, whether you've followed Rebecca for years (like me!) or are just getting to know her, you don't want to miss this conversation as we explore reinvention and why it's always possible to ask ourselves for more. Let's do this Flirties, and meet Rebecca More. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy, all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! About our guest:  Rebecca More is a British adult industry legend, performance artist, cultural icon, and one-half of the unforgettable Cock Destroyers, a viral sensation that redefined internet fame and queer adoration. With her signature confidence, camp energy, and unapologetic authenticity, Rebecca has built a devoted global following and continues to inspire audiences far beyond adult entertainment. She starred in the hit queer reality competition Slag Wars and is now on a powerful journey of personal reinvention—stepping away from porn, training for an Ironman, and embracing new chapters of life with humor, heart, and honesty. A fierce advocate for confidence, self-expression, and embracing change at any stage of life, Rebecca remains a beloved icon and inspiration to many. You can follow Rebecca's personal Instagram, adult work-focused Instagram, check out the Growth Fridays podcast and lifestyle vlogs on YouTube, and follow her on Twitter.  About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage. Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self. His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, and Yoga Journal. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.

Coming up on this episode of Flirtations, we're getting real, raw, and radically open with the incredible Tricia Wise.  You may know Tricia as the @safe.slut across social media, Tricia is a master aesthetician, reiki practitioner, sexual health advocate, herpes stigma breaker, and meme queen—and today, she's joining us to talk about something that, depending on the type, affects over 3 billion people around the world. It's Herpes! In this episode, we're diving into Tricia's personal journey with HSV (that's herpes), the work she's doing to destigmatize sexual health, and how we can create more empowered, shame-free conversations around sex, our bodies, and dating.  From navigating disclosure and diagnosis, to reclaiming confidence, pleasure, and power, Tricia shares the truth behind the stigma—and why it's time we start normalizing the conversation around herps and STIs (sexually transmitted infections). We'll also talk about the different types of herpes, how you may contract it, treatment options, how to get tested, how and when to disclose status, how to practice safe sex, and why herpes isn't the end of world. So, whether you're navigating a diagnosis, are dating someone who is, or simply want to learn how to be a more informed and safe out there dating, this episode is for you! Let's drop the shame, turn up the self-love, and welcome the one and only Tricia Wise to the show. Let's do this, Flirties! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy, all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! About our guest:  Safe Slut is a writer, sex worker, content creator, and reiki master. Safe Slut was diagnosed with genital herpes in November 2019. After noticing the stigma and shame surrounding being herpes positive, she created her Instagram account @safe.slut to help people take their power back while promoting sex positivity, helping to destigmatize STIs and slut shaming, and promoting safer sex practices. She also is smashing stigma and being a slut on OF as @safeslvt and on Patreon as Safe Slut. All links:  Instagram Shop Tiktok Twitter Patreon YouTube About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage. Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self. His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, and Yoga Journal. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.

“The closer you are to death, the more alive you feel.” Join your favourite TransAtlantic podcasting duo – Ian & Liam – as we rev the engines, grip the wheel, and go full throttle into our 284th episode with a look at Ron Howard's high-octane drama Rush (2013). We're trading poisoned apples for podium finishes as we dive into one of Formula 1's greatest real-life rivalries: What is it about films that explore the pursuit of greatness that gets our hearts racing every time? We break down why stories with duelling personalities—like Hunt and Lauda—are so compelling, especially when each sees themselves reflected in the other. What elements of the true story were changed, streamlined, or dialled up to eleven for cinematic effect? Ian and Liam try to figure out which one of them is the reckless playboy and which is the meticulous technician… and it gets uncomfortable quickly. We talk about the power of respect over friendship, the blurred lines between envy and admiration, and why this film might be Ron Howard's unsung masterpiece. Whether Rush is the Best Film Ever—or just one hell of a ride worth taking. Become a Patron of this podcast and support the BFE at https://www.patreon.com/BFE. We are extremely thankful to our following Patrons for their most generous support: Juleen from It Goes Down In The PM Hermes Auslander James DeGuzman Synthia Shai Bergerfroind Ariannah Who Loves BFE The Most Andy Dickson Chris Pedersen Duane Smith (Duane Smith!) Randal Silva Nate The Great Rev Bruce Cheezy (with a fish on a bike) Richard Ryan Kuketz Dirk Diggler Stew from the Stew World Order podcast NorfolkDomus John Humphrey's Right Foot Timmy Tim Tim Aashrey Buy some BFE merch at https://my-store-b4e4d4.creator-spring.com/. Massive thanks to Lex Van Den Berghe for the use of Mistake by Luckydog. Catch more from Lex's new band, The Maids of Honor, at https://soundcloud.com/themaidsofhonor. Also, massive thanks to Moonlight Social for our age game theme song. You can catch more from them at https://www.moonlightsocialmusic.com/.

Get every episode of The Dumb Zone by subscribing to the show at DumbZone.com or Patreon.com/TheDumbZoneWe're in the heart of Texas in BFE (we know what that means now) and we've got a Thunder championship to talk about as well as former Thunder, Kevin Durant, was traded yesterday. Plus, this edition of Blake reads a book is titled "OJ Simpson is Innocent and I Can Prove It" (00:00) - Open: Weekend check (42:26) - Sports: Thunder win, KD traded (01:20:19) - News: Earlybird can stay (01:40:01) - VM birthdays/Today in History (01:53:31) - Closing remarks: Maybe OJ didn't do it ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Coming up on this episode of Flirtations, we're defining the relationship, ya'll, with Carleigh Ferrante! Carleigh is the creator and voice of @mostlydating on Instagram and host of the Mostly Dating podcast, having built a community of over 200,000 with her honest takes on dating and relationships. Whether you're feeling things out with someone new, stuck in dating limbo, or ready to move from casual to committed, this episode offers advice on how to approach conversation around exclusivity and defining the relationship with clarity and confidence.  We'll talk about what signs to look for that someone is ready for the conversation, how to know if you're ready, what to consider before having it, and how to handle it if you're not on the same page. Carleigh shares her take on the timing of the DTR convo, whether exclusivity and defining the relationship are the same thing, and how to navigate situations where one person needs more time.  We also cover what to expect after this conversation, like how to keep things moving forward or how to walk away if it's not working. And finally, we talk a little mindset. Why do we fear scaring someone? And how can we stay grounded when we're feeling unsure about where we stand with someone?  So, whether you're about to DTR, go exclusive, all of the above, or none of above, stick around for a candid and honest conversation about dating and relationships. Alright, let's do this, Flirties, and meet Carleigh! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy, all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! About our guest:  Carleigh Ferrante is a New York–based writer and creator behind the hit dating podcast Mostly Dating, where she delivers approachable, insightful advice for every stage of modern relationships. Her work blends humor, heart, and accessible guidance, with episodes running weekly and featuring practical tips, listener questions, and conversations that help build healthier, happier, and lasting connections. A graduate of Hunter College with a degree in Creative Writing and Psychology, Carleigh has contributed to major outlets including MindBodyGreen, Well+Good, PureWow, Forbes, Bustle, The Everygirl, The Zoe Report, and Yahoo Life. She also works directly with brands, crafting copy for email, web, social media, and more. You can connect with Carleigh on Instagram (@mostlydating), the Mostly Dating Podcast, and on her website. About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage. Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self. His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, and Yoga Journal. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.

Coming up on this episode of Flirtations, Fernie is back on the show for our summer solstice dating horoscope! With a brand new season comes new energy for dating, romance, flirting, and cosmic possibility. Joining us today is Flirtations' in-house astrologer, fortune teller, and magic mystic, Fernie, here to read the stars and pull back the planetary curtain on what this season has in store for our love lives. What does the Queen of Swords want us to know? What is Jupiter up to and what opportunities might some celestial happenings present? Mars has also got something to say and we're kicking off cancer season! Lot's to get to, including the two big themes the stars and planets have for us, and how we can fill our own cups a little bit more. You don't need to be an astrology expert—just bring an open heart and an open mind, and we'll take care of the rest. So get ready to flirt with fortune, boldness, beauty, and maybe a little bit of magic. Let's do this, Flirties, and meet Fernie. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy, all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! About our guest:  Fernie Salinas (he/they) is a queer Latinx fortune telling witch from the Rio Grande Valley in Texas.  They are the owner and founder of Golden Mirror Fortunes, and they hope to be Your Favorite Fortune Teller! They grew up always knowing that magic was around us, as their great-grandfather and his son, their grand-uncle, were both curanderos (folk healers) in Rio Grande City, and it's been such a delight to have Golden Mirror Fortunes carry on the legacy of healing and mysticism they instilled in him. He's also an educator — he went to Rice University, studied English and Art History, got their teacher's certification, joined TFA, and have been a teacher and principal at various schools in the RGV.  He is currently an education consultant as well as running Golden Mirror Fortunes, their small fortune telling business.  He uses tarot and magic to help people heal and find their paths, all in service of improving their fortunes.  His deepest desire is to provide you with the light that you need to make your life a little more magical and glittery. Follow them on Instagram and let them be your favorite fortune teller! About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage. Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self. His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, and Yoga Journal. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.

“So long… partner.” Join your favourite TransAtlantic podcasting duo – Ian & Liam – as we stare mortality, memory, and molten doom right in the eye in our 283rd episode, covering Pixar's emotional rollercoaster Toy Story 3 (2010). We're trading poisoned apples for daycare drama and incinerator trauma as we ask whether this trilogy-closer really is the perfect goodbye: We are so very thankful for a new piece of kit that limited our downtime this week We talk about why Toy Story 3 might just be the best third act in any trilogy ever. Ian reflects on the passage of time, growing up, and how Pixar weaponised emotion in the final 20 minutes. Liam bravely tries to hold it together during that incinerator scene—and that goodbye with Andy. Is Lotso one of Pixar's greatest villains and what is it about him that Liam hates so much but Ian loves so much? We talk about daycare as dystopia, Big Baby as horror icon, why Mr. Pricklepants deserved more screen time and who exactly is watching these kids at the daycare? Why does this hit so hard for adults? Is it just about toys—or everything we leave behind? Ian breaks down the film's narrative structure and how it perfectly mirrors growing up and letting go. Whether Toy Story 3 is the Best Film Ever—or just the most emotionally devastating G-rated film of all time. Become a Patron of this podcast and support the BFE at https://www.patreon.com/BFE. We are extremely thankful to our following Patrons for their most generous support: Juleen from It Goes Down In The PM Hermes Auslander James DeGuzman Synthia Shai Bergerfroind Ariannah Who Loves BFE The Most Andy Dickson Chris Pedersen Duane Smith (Duane Smith!) Randal Silva Nate The Great Rev Bruce Cheezy (with a fish on a bike) Richard Ryan Kuketz Dirk Diggler Stew from the Stew World Order podcast NorfolkDomus John Humphrey's Right Foot Timmy Tim Tim Aashrey Buy some BFE merch at https://my-store-b4e4d4.creator-spring.com/. Massive thanks to Lex Van Den Berghe for the use of Mistake by Luckydog. Catch more from Lex's new band, The Maids of Honor, at https://soundcloud.com/themaidsofhonor. Also, massive thanks to Moonlight Social for our age game theme song. You can catch more from them at https://www.moonlightsocialmusic.com/.

Coming up on this episode of Flirtations, we welcome Dr. Shanté Holley to the show! Dr. Shanté is a certified life coach, writer, professor, and host of the podcast The Whole In Your Heart podcast on YouTube. Specializing in guiding individuals through the complexities of healing, wellness, and personal development, today we have a conversation for you about the art of surrender. We explore how to trust the timing of your life, the difference between surrender and submission, and how to accept what you cannot change while still believing deeply in yourself and what is possible. We'll go into how to process anger and hurt when you've been wronged, how to stop living in the past, and how the very act of trying to control outcomes is often where we lose our power.  Dr. Shanté offers insights into why force is the opposite of surrender, how to recognize the subtle ways we abandon ourselves, and why surrender is not weakness, but strength. If you've been holding on too tightly to old beliefs, are having a hard time letting go, feeling stuck, or if your strength has started to look more like struggle, this episode is for you! Let's do the Flirties, and meet Dr. Shanté! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy- all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! About our guest:  Dr. Shanté Holley is a certified, trauma-informed mental health coach with over 20 years of experience as a college professor. She is a respected voice in the mental wellness community, with a passionate following of more than 270K on social media, a ranked publication on Substack, and viral content that has reached millions.  Known for her accessible, and impactful approach to mental health, she has been featured on both local and national news outlets, using her platform to share practical insights and advocate for mental wellness. A sought-after speaker, Dr. Shanté delivers high-value content on a variety of topics related to emotional resilience, trauma recovery, and self-care, with engagements across the country. Her expertise has led to partnerships with major organizations such as the Immigrant Justice Corps, American Red Cross, SAMHSA, and the Ad Council, where she collaborates on campaigns aimed at promoting mental health awareness and community support. In addition to her work in mental health coaching, Dr. Shanté is a prolific podcaster with three successful shows that collectively boast hundreds of thousands of downloads. Her podcasts serve as valuable resources for individuals seeking guidance on personal growth, mindset, healing, and navigating life's challenges. Dr. Shanté also serves on the Board for Belonging Through Art, an organization dedicated to reducing loneliness and fostering positive social connections through art. Her commitment to improving mental wellness extends to her academic work, where she was a Fulbright Scholarship Finalist for her research on Blaxit: The Interconnectedness of Racial Trauma, Healing, and Black Immigration to Portugal, a groundbreaking project that explored the intersections of cultural identity, trauma, and healing. With her extensive background in mental health, education, and media Dr. Shanté Holley is a trailblazer in the field, committed to helping individuals heal, grow, and thrive. You can connect with Dr. Shanté on Substack, listen to the "Whole in Your Heart" podcast on YouTube, learn more on her website, and @drshantesays on Instagram. About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage. Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self. His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, and Yoga Journal. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.

Coming up on this episode of Flirtations, we're going to have a cheeky good time with the fabulous Jana Hocking! You might know Jana from her spicy columns in the Daily Mail, her time behind the scenes casting and producing The Bachelor, or her wildly popular 'saucy secrets' series on Instagram, where no confession is too hot to handle. In this episode, we talk about everything from orgasm camp to the realities of modern dating—including the rise of red pill culture, the shift to wanting more in real life meet cute moments, and how we can start to decenter dating in our lives without settling for singleness. Jana shares some of her favorite dating stories, we're gonna talk some kinks and sex, and yes, even a flirting tip or two. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy- all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! About our guest:  Jana Hocking is a journalist, dating columnist, and self-proclaimed “collector of stories” the juicier, the better. She pens the popular Saucy Secrets advice column for Daily Mail, writes internationally about modern romance, and has become a go-to voice on sex, dating, and relationships. Known for her cheeky wit and raw honesty, she's not afraid to ask the questions everyone's thinking - especially when it comes to love and lust in the 21st century. Follow her adventures, columns, and overshares on Instagram @jana_hocking and catch more of her writing at dailymail.co.uk. About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage. Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self. His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, and Yoga Journal. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.

“Happy anniversary, baby.” Join your favorite TransAtlantic podcasting trio – Ian, Liam & Megs (Kev's taking care of some issues in Atlanta) – as we lock and load for our 282nd episode, celebrating the 20th anniversary of Doug Liman's bullet-riddled marital meltdown Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005). We're trading treasure maps and Pepsi product placement for high-tech arsenals and awkward couples therapy as we discuss: At what point exactly did Brad Pitt's & Angelina Jolie's respective existing marriages become doomed The world of super spies and just how deep your cover has to be before you forget who you're actually married to. We get a guest review from a parent of a podcaster this week—they've certainly chosen a side Do our respective genders guarantee a same-gender allegiance or is it up for grabs One of us struggles to accept the film's central conceit (spoiler: it involves assassins, suburbs, and how you manage to create your respective weapons stashes). How this film caused a minor international incident  We ask the big question: Was Brad Pitt a character actor trapped in a movie star's body all along? What's wrong with the narrative pacing—and why does it feel like the film ran out of bullets before the third act? We dive into the ongoing conversation around gender pay equality, especially when both leads aren't marquee stars. Is this a great film or just a very stylish couples' argument with body count. How much mediocrity can great chemistry overcome Whether Mr. & Mrs. Smith is the Best Film Ever Become a Patron of this podcast and support the BFE at https://www.patreon.com/BFE. We are extremely thankful to our following Patrons for their most generous support: Juleen from It Goes Down In The PM Hermes Auslander James DeGuzman Synthia Shai Bergerfroind Ariannah Who Loves BFE The Most Andy Dickson Chris Pedersen Duane Smith (Duane Smith!) Randal Silva Nate The Great Rev Bruce Cheezy (with a fish on a bike) Richard Ryan Kuketz Dirk Diggler Stew from the Stew World Order podcast NorfolkDomus John Humphrey's Right Foot Timmy Tim Tim Aashrey Buy some BFE merch at https://my-store-b4e4d4.creator-spring.com/. Massive thanks to Lex Van Den Berghe for the use of Mistake by Luckydog. Catch more from Lex's new band, The Maids of Honor, at https://soundcloud.com/themaidsofhonor. Also, massive thanks to Moonlight Social for our age game theme song. You can catch more from them at https://www.moonlightsocialmusic.com/.

Coming up on this episode of Flirtations, we welcome Erica Turner to the show, the creator of The Relationship Reset on Instagram and the Secure Dating Playbook, to have a conversation with us about communication in early dating! We open the show with how to reset the relationship we have with ourselves and reframe some common experiences we might have out there dating. Experiences like feeling like it's never going to happen, feeling like we're not enough or like we're too much, and ultimately how we can develop more secure connections within ourselves. Then we get into communication questions as we talk about frequency and pacing, how often to text, what to do when someone's communication style feels different from yours, are we following on social media, and how we can navigate perhaps difficult conversations when we need to express a need or boundary. Finally, we'll share guidance on building emotional intimacy and compatibility in early dating, how to know if someone might ghost you, and why vulnerability is the key to authentic connection. So, whether you're just starting something new or trying to move beyond surface-level small talk, this episode is your invitation to flirt with deeper connection. Let's do this Flirties, and meet Erica! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy- all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! About our guest:  Erica Turner is a relationship therapist & dating coach supporting people to date from the worth & attract healthy love with ease. You can connect with Erica on Instagram, download the FREE Secure Dating Playbook, and enroll in the Secure Dating Method Masterclass for more! About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage. Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self. His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, and Yoga Journal. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.

Coming up on this episode of Flirtations, we welcome Alli Goldberg to the show! Alli is a producer, writer, comedian, and creator of the in real life comedy show Love Isn't Blind that blends dating, laughter, and matchmaking, here to have a conversation with us about dating, flirting, and how we can have more fun making connections. Questions for Alli for relatively split between this sounds so fun, where can I see a show!, and I could never do that, this makes me nervous! We'll open with talking about fear and how that shows up in our dating and flirting lives - and what we can do about it.  We get into how to flirt with more freedom, how to have more fun, and answer questions like: Do I have to be funny to flirt? What if I hate flirting? What if this whole thing just makes me nervous? And most importantly, how do we step outside our comfort zones and create connections that actually feel good? We'll touch on authenticity, how both Alli and myself have navigated these very questions, and learn more about Alli's one-of-a-kind show, Love Isn't Blind, and how you can attend and participate! So, whether you're a seasoned flirt or someone who breaks out in flop sweat at the thought of making the first move, this episode is for you. Let's do this Flirties, and meet Alli! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy- all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! About our guest:  Allison Goldberg is a comedian, producer, and creator whose work has been covered by LA Magazine, Good Morning America, The Tamron Hall Show, and more. For the past 2.5 years, she's been working on her newest creation, Love Isn't Blind, which is a comedy/dating show where the men can't speak. She is currently touring the country with the show. She is a graduate of Yale University, and is repped by Gersh. Apply to be on the show Find out show dates/buy tickets Nominate a Friend Instagram About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage. Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self. His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, and Yoga Journal. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.

“Goonies never say die!” Join your favorite TransAtlantic podcasting crew – Ian, Liam, KevDog & Megs – with a surprise zipline call-in from Georgia – as we hunt for treasure, dodge booby traps, and argue over coastal real estate law in our 281st episode covering the beloved ‘80s adventure The Goonies (1985). We're trading poisoned apples for pirate maps and Baby Ruth bars as we discuss: Why Ian still can't remember androgynous character names—and what that means for Andy and the podcast's collective patience. We get into a surprisingly spirited debate over what foreclosure actually means (and how much Spielberg economics we're willing to accept). What's the real tragedy behind the film's stunning set design—and the moment it all went poof. Which young actor accidentally ruined an iconic shot… and whether Spielberg ever truly forgave him. We get honest about Chunk, fat shaming, and how watching it through a 2025 lens left some of us feeling a little queasy. We go over some podcast metrics, because if the Fratellis can chase gold, we can at least check our download stats. Who far outpunches his small role in the cast—and who far outkicked his coverage romantically (we're actually not looking at Brand). Kev's brought along some exotic treats (if you're English), and reactions range from delighted to deflated. Someone (take a guess) tries to do some serious heavy lifting to make the central treasure-hunting plot actually make sense. Ian gives what he thinks is a masterclass in narrative construction and points out where The Goonies missed a few easy wins (even with pirate ships involved). Whether The Goonies is the Best Film Ever. Become a Patron of this podcast and support the BFE at https://www.patreon.com/BFE. We are extremely thankful to our following Patrons for their most generous support: Juleen from It Goes Down In The PM Hermes Auslander James DeGuzman Synthia Shai Bergerfroind Ariannah Who Loves BFE The Most Andy Dickson Chris Pedersen Duane Smith (Duane Smith!) Randal Silva Nate The Great Rev Bruce Cheezy (with a fish on a bike) Richard Ryan Kuketz Dirk Diggler Stew from the Stew World Order podcast NorfolkDomus John Humphrey's Right Foot Timmy Tim Tim Aashrey Buy some BFE merch at https://my-store-b4e4d4.creator-spring.com/. Massive thanks to Lex Van Den Berghe for the use of Mistake by Luckydog. Catch more from Lex's new band, The Maids of Honor, at https://soundcloud.com/themaidsofhonor. Also, massive thanks to Moonlight Social for our age game theme song. You can catch more from them at https://www.moonlightsocialmusic.com/.

Today on Flirtations, we welcome Krista Williams and Lindsey Simcik, the powerhouse due behind the Almost 30 podcast, with over 100M downloads around the world, and authors of the new book Almost 30:  A Definitive Guide to a Life You Love for the Next Decade and Beyond, who are here to have a conversation with us today about dating advice I wish I knew! We open with the interplay between change and fear, and how can we navigate the space of change and life's experiences without holding ourselves back? Or self sabotaging? We also explore hyperindividualism and codependency in dating and relationships, how each manifests and what we can do if we fall into these dynamics? But that's not all, we're going to talk about the duality of loneliness and healing, self-love and how to find the right balance between just enough and feeling like it's never enough, and, if you're dating the mens, but kind of can't stand them either, we'll hear how to begin reframing relationships with men. Alright Flirties, if you're read for a heartfelt and transformative episode, this one is for you! Now let's meet Krista and Lindsey! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy- all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! About our guests:  Lindsey Simcik and Krista Williams, founders and co-hosts of the popular “Almost 30” podcast, are women's empowerment leaders and best friends releasing their debut book “Almost 30: A Definitive Guide to a Life You Love for the Next Decade and Beyond,” on June 3, 2025. Part memoir, part manual, fans are eagerly awaiting the book as their ultimate guide to navigating life's transitions. In the “Almost 30” book, Lindsey and Krista act as cosmic big sisters, providing encouragement, wisdom, and practical tools to help readers embrace change and thrive and they move into a new chapter of life. Through candid stories of their own experiences, as well as expert insight from podcast guests like Jay Shetty, Gabby Bernstein, and Glennon Doyle, Lindsey and Krista lay out a roadmap for navigating young adulthood, from relationships to spirituality, career to body image, and more.   Packed with thought-provoking exercises, meditation and journaling prompts, and sage advice, this book is a must-have companion for anyone standing at the edge of change. Whether you're figuring out who you are or where you're going next, “Almost 30” is here to guide you through life's transitions and remind us that we're all almost… something. The “Almost 30” podcast is a top wellness, spirituality, and self-development podcast. Since the show's inception, Lindsey and Krista have amassed over 100M downloads, completed a 13-city tour, hosted in-person retreats and online workshops, and built an online membership community platform. Lindsey Simcik is a content creator, author, and co-host of the successful “Almost 30” podcast. Recently having become a first-time mother, Lindsey is a mainstay lifestyle creator for moms and anyone seeking to live a natural, holistic life. Krista Williams is a content creator, author, and co-host of the successful “Almost 30” podcast. Known for her style and vibrancy, followers flock to Krista for dating, travel and self-care inspiration. You can learn more and purchase a copy of the "Almost 30" book wherever books are sold! About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage. Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self. His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, and Yoga Journal. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.

Coming up on this episode of Flirtations, we're celebrating the premiere of the new season And Just Like That … with a special Sex and the City episode!  For this conversation, we welcome the multitalented and multifaceted Scott Spraags, a dancer, choreographer, producer, director, and all-around passionate creator who is a Sex and the City superfan, just like me! In this episode, we explore each of the iconic characters—Carrie, Miranda, Charlotte, and Samantha—and the enduring dating lessons their stories, romances, relationships, and sexcapades have bestowed us.  From Carrie's avoidant and yet anxious tendencies to Miranda's Type A personality and how that played out in dating, to Charlotte's hopeful romanticism and belief in love, to Samantha's unapologetic sexual confidence, we discuss how these characters and their narratives have shaped our understanding of love and relationships. So, whether you're a longtime fan or new to the series, please join us as we celebrate the show's impact on dating culture and its continued relevance today. Let's do this Flirties, and meet Scottie! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy- all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! About our guest:  Scott/Scottie is a working professional in entertainment and creative currently based in Los Angeles . He has worked with major artists such as Post Malone, Martin Short, and Broadway Choreographers, such as Connor Gallagher, and Patti Wilcox to name a few.  You can find him performing, acting, singing, and spreading love and joy all over the world . He has gotten the opportunity to walk the lifestyles of so many different cultures & people from getting to travel, perform and live across the globe his entire life.  The biggest lesson he has take away from this islearning to never take what you have for granted but to also never settle for less than you are. He is thrilled to be a guest on Flirtations! And seriously SO proud to be a Flrity just like you.  Keep up with Scott on Instagram @scottspraags. About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage. Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self. His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, and Yoga Journal. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.

“Here's Johnny!” Join your favorite TransAtlantic podcasting duo – Ian & Liam (with Megs checking in later once she arrives from Florida) – as we snowmobile into the Overlook Hotel for our 280th episode (B-Tech Kev's not here. Doesn't he get that all work and no play make Kev a dull boy?) and crack open Stanley Kubrick's psychological horror masterpiece The Shining (1980). We're trading ditching the swim team for haunted hallways and axing our way through one of the most iconic films ever made as we discuss: Liam talks far too much about a film that we're not reviewing today (but what else is new?). We correct a few political misnomers from last week, because facts matter—especially when ghosts are listening. Ian talks about the passing of George Wendt; Liam, not to be outdone, imagines the hypothetical passing of one of his heroes. Megs joins us and delivers a full-on mini-episode as she trials her new sidepod and recounts her real-life triumph over the forces of nature. We debate whether Jack Nicholson is giving a genuinely strong performance… or just letting his charisma do all the heavy lifting. Is there causality in this story—or is it all just vibes? And if there isn't, shouldn't that break the movie? Ian reveals who he's in good company with on this one—and who he most certainly is not. Ian also explains the origin of the iconic “Here's Johnny!” line to, well… everyone. Ian asks if this movie is trying to cram two different horror movies into one Liam swears this isn't a horror movie and the boys try to come up with a list of what makes a film a horror film Become a Patron of this podcast and support the BFE at https://www.patreon.com/BFE. We are extremely thankful to our following Patrons for their most generous support: Juleen from It Goes Down In The PM Hermes Auslander James DeGuzman Synthia Shai Bergerfroind Ariannah Who Loves BFE The Most Andy Dickson Chris Pedersen Duane Smith (Duane Smith!) Randal Silva Nate The Great Rev Bruce Cheezy (with a fish on a bike) Richard Ryan Kuketz Dirk Diggler Stew from the Stew World Order podcast NorfolkDomus John Humphrey's Right Foot Timmy Tim Tim Aashrey Buy some BFE merch at https://my-store-b4e4d4.creator-spring.com/. Massive thanks to Lex Van Den Berghe for the use of Mistake by Luckydog. Catch more from Lex's new band, The Maids of Honor, at https://soundcloud.com/themaidsofhonor. Also, massive thanks to Moonlight Social for our age game theme song. You can catch more from them at https://www.moonlightsocialmusic.com/.

Coming up on this episode of Flirtations, we're talking limerence, longing, and connection with our guest, Amanda McCracken, a journalist, speaker, and host of the insightful The Longing Lab podcast and author of the forthcoming book, When Longing Becomes Your Lover. Inside the episode, we breakdown limerence and the limerence cycle, and how this intense and often obsessive infatuation we may develop for someone ultimately keeps us from developing the connections and relationships we desire.  We'll also explore the neuroscience behind limerence and how our brains are wired to desire what we don't have, and why this longing can become a comforting distraction.  But that's not all, you all came through with questions and we've got answers, like how to break the limerence cycle? What if I just can't get over someone? I have a crush, how can I not go into limerence? What are some strategies for obsessive thoughts? What role does social media and the dating apps play in all of this? As we begin to wrap up the conversation, Amanda shares her decision to wait until 41 to have sex, which garnered national attention and sparked conversations about intimacy, self-worth, and the societal narratives that shape our romantic lives. Alright flirties, let's prepare to examine our desires and the stories we tell ourselves about love.  Time to meet Amanda! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy- all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! About our guest:  Amanda McCracken is an award-winning journalist whose writing has been published in the New York Times, Washington Post, Guardian, NPR, Elle, National Geographic, Vogue, Runner's World, Outside and elsewhere. Her TEDx talk "How longing keeps us from healthy relationships" was one of only 200 talks chosen in 2023 as a TEDx editors' pick. She is now a TEDxCU speaker coach and a writing consultant at the University of Colorado. McCracken has been interviewed about her essays on intimacy by Katie Couric, the BBC World News, USA Today, and various podcasts. After over a decade of research and interviews with 100+ people, her hybrid memoir on limerence When Longing Becomes Your Lover will be published Februrary 2026, but the greatest result of her investigative journey was meeting her husband and having their daughter.  McCracken is also an endurance athlete and triathlon coach of 25 years. Learn more about her at www.amandajmccracken.com, on Instagram @amandajmccracken,  or discover more about the science and culture of longing at her podcast The Longing Lab. About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage. Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self. His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, and Yoga Journal. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.

Coming up on this episode of Flirtations, we're joined by the fabulous Maria Avgitidis— a fourth generation matchmaker, dating extraordinaire, and author of the new book Ask a Matchmaker to have a conversation with us about, well, dating! Maria brings real-world wisdom, generational insight, and just the right dose of tough love to the modern dating experience we all need. Inside the episode, we'll learn what Maria observes when two people first meet and if there are ways to observe compatibility? What early signs indicate a connection has potential? We also get into global affairs and urban planning—yes, really!,  and what these disciplines have to teach us about dating, connection, and community. Then Maria shares about the number one dating dealbreaker today, how digital and social media have impacted dating, and we'll end with some flirting tips, of course! So if you're ready for some bold insights and a few matchmaking secrets, then this episode is for you! Let's do the Flirties, and meet Maria! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy- all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! About our guest:  Maria Avgitidis is the CEO of Agape Match, an award-winning matchmaking service based out of New York City, and the host of the dating and relationship podcast Ask a Matchmaker. Maria combines strong intuition with matchmaking methodology to leverage each client's unique personality, style, and history. Their love stories are a testament to how Maria has transformed matchmaking utilizing behavioral science and the unique know-how gained through her matchmaking inheritance. Matchmaker Maria and her advice for those seeking love has been featured in The New York Times, CBS Mornings, Time Magazine, The Washington Post and more. You can follow Maria on Instagram, learn more about Agape Match and matchmaking services, listen to the Ask and Matchmaker Podcast, and check out Maria's new book, Ask a Matchmaker, for more! About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage. Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self. His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, and Yoga Journal. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.

“Give her the goddamn [microphone], Conrad!” Join your favorite TransAtlantic podcasting crew – Ian & Liam (Megs and B-Tech Kev have headed off to Houston) – as we dive deep into the murky waters of grief, guilt, and WASP repression for our 289th episode, covering Robert Redford's directorial debut Ordinary People (1980). We're joined by BFF of the BFE: Ariannah (Who Loves BFE the Most™), as we trade poisoned apples for therapy sessions and take a long, quiet look at the cracks beneath the perfect family portrait as we discuss: How Ordinary People took the 1980 Oscars by storm  Does the film's quiet intensity still hit home—or has its reserved style become a relic of another era? Is Conrad a deeply sympathetic protagonist—or a mirror too uncomfortable to look into? How Ordinary People explores mental health, emotional repression, and the cold war between appearance and authenticity. Would the film still work today or have we successfully de-stigmatized mental health, trauma, and therapy? Which character we most relate to – and does that change  Where Mary Tyler Moore lands in the pantheon of dramatic performances. And what's someone's major gripe with her character's arc? Speaking of gripes—can we talk about that family photo scene? We've got questions about golf sweaters, family breakfast tension, and how much pain can hide behind tickets to Michigan State We get personal about how Ordinary People affected us—and whether we saw ourselves in any of its emotional breakdowns. We talk quiet power, redemptive silence, and the importance of just… being there for someone. Whether Ordinary People is the Best Film Ever. Become a Patron of this podcast and support the BFE at https://www.patreon.com/BFE.   We are extremely thankful to our following Patrons for their most generous support: Juleen from It Goes Down In The PM Hermes Auslander James DeGuzman Synthia Shai Bergerfroind Ariannah Who Loves BFE The Most Andy Dickson Chris Pedersen Duane Smith (Duane Smith!) Randal Silva Nate The Great Rev Bruce Cheezy (with a fish on a bike) Richard Ryan Kuketz Dirk Diggler Stew from the Stew World Order podcast NorfolkDomus John Humphrey's Right Foot Timmy Tim Tim Aashrey Buy some BFE merch at https://my-store-b4e4d4.creator-spring.com/. Massive thanks to Lex Van Den Berghe for the use of Mistake by Luckydog. Catch more from Lex's new band, The Maids of Honor, at https://soundcloud.com/themaidsofhonor. Also, massive thanks to Moonlight Social for our age game theme song. You can catch more from them at https://www.moonlightsocialmusic.com/.

Coming up on this episode of Flirtations, we have the first-ever guest back on the show, it's Talia Koren! Talia is the host of the Dating Intentionally podcast and creator of the Dating Intentionally Instagram and YouTube pages, who is here to have a conversation with us about dating intentionally. Inside the episode, here's what you can expect: How to identify your personal intentions and needs in the dating, and why this matters; How to set and maintain boundaries, and why those boundaries are for you first; Effective communication strategies, including texting frequency in early dating; Transitioning from dating app conversations to real-life dates; Approaches to multi-dating and determining the right balance for you; Recognizing green and red flags, and understanding your dealbreakers; Managing first-date anxiety; and How to determine emotional availability and why it starts with you. So, whether you're new to the dating scene, getting back out there after a break or relationship, or looking to refine your approach, this conversation offers practical insights to help you date with more intention. Let's do this Flirties, time to meet Talia! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy- all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! About our guest:  Talia Koren is a dating podcaster, content creator, and entrepreneur dedicated to helping people navigate modern dating with confidence and ease. As the founder of Dating Intentionally, she empowers singles—especially women in their 30s to 50s—to date with purpose, develop stronger connections, and have fun along the way. With over 170,000 Instagram followers and a thriving podcast with over 2M downloads, Talia has built a community of intentional daters seeking guidance, practical advice, and a refreshing perspective on love. Her insights, rooted in experience and research, challenge common dating misconceptions and provide actionable strategies for folks who are looking to get into a long term relationship.  Follow Talia on Instagram, YouTube, and check out the Dating Intentionally Podcast! About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage. Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self. His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, and Yoga Journal. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.

Coming up on this episode of Flirtations, I am honored to bring you a conversation with Jillian Turecki, the host of the Jillian On Love podcast and author of the book, It Begins With You: The 9 Hard Truths About Love That Will Change Your Life. The topics:  emotional availability and what matters in relationships. To begin, we talk about some good ‘ol healing and the transformative period known as the "dark night of the soul." Jillian shares her experience with this and how even the hardest times, there are opportunities for profound growth and self-discovery.   Then we take on the topic of emotional availability, what to look for in early dating, and what it takes to make a relationship work. From the trap of dating someone's potential to understanding the nuances of readiness versus availability versus capacity, Jillian provides invaluable insights on how we can build relationships with emotionally available partners and why that work ultimately begins with us first.  Next, we'll hear Jillian's take on situationships and touch on heartbreak. What Jillian says here, you do not want to miss. Finally, we've got to talk about flirting, of course, and is Jillian a flirt?! So, whether you're navigating the dating world, healing from past relationships, or seeking a deeper connection with yourself, this episode is for you! Alright Flirties, let's do this and meet Jillian! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy- all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! About our guest:  Jillian Turecki is a renowned relationship expert, teacher, author, and host of the Podcast, Jillian On Love. Fueled by an insatiable curiosity about what makes a relationship thrive, Jillian has helped thousands over the last 20 years through her teachings, courses, and writing to revolutionize their relationship with themselves so that they transform their romantic relationships. Jillian is sought out for her compassionate, direct, and very authentic style of coaching, teaching and writing. You can connect with Jillian on her website, Instagram, the Jillian on Love podcast, and learn more about It Begins With You! About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage. Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self. His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, and Yoga Journal. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.

“On the BFE, nobody touches you. We're always behind this metal and glass.” Join your favorite TransAtlantic podcasting crew – Ian, Liam & Megs (Kev's stuck in traffic... literally) – as we collide head-on with our 270th episode, diving into the Oscar-winning ensemble drama Crash (2004). We're trading poisoned apples for tangled fender benders and uncomfortable conversations as we discuss: How Crash sparked intense debate in 2004 and controversially drove off with Best Picture. Does the film still resonate 20 years later—or has its commentary aged as awkwardly as some of its dialogue? Is Crash a powerful mirror to society… or a heavy-handed lecture? How Crash explores race, prejudice, guilt, and the unseen connections that bind us. Which character's arc hit us hardest – and which character has multiple members of the BFE auditioning for the role? Is Crash misunderstood genius—or awards bait that tricked us all? Where the film sits among Best Picture winners. And what's our biggest gripe with its storytelling choices? Which characters does the film tell us to forgive - and do we? Speaking of gripes—do any of these characters actually change? We get personal about when we first saw Crash, and how our take on the film has evolved over time (or crashed and burned). We talk intense performances, sweeping coincidences, and how this film could only have been made at this exact time Whether Crash is the Best Film Ever. Become a Patron of this podcast and support the BFE at https://www.patreon.com/BFE.

Coming up on this episode for Flirtations, we welcome Natalie Lue, the host of the Baggage Reclaim Sessions podcast and the author of five books, including The Joy of Saying No, to have a conversation with us about people pleasing! Natalie is a leading voice on boundaries and people-pleasing, helping people understand how their emotional baggage interferes with their ability to live authentically. Together, we'll delve into what people-pleasing truly is and explore the five distinct styles of people pleasing Natalie identifies: gooding, efforting, avoiding, saving, and suffering. We'll discuss how people-pleasing often originates from childhood experiences and how it manifests in our adult relationships, particularly in dating. Natalie will shed light on why people-pleasing can be a significant barrier to genuine intimacy and the importance of embracing conflict as a natural and sometimes necessary part of healthy relationships. We'll also examine societal norms, the ways we're socialized, and how the era of obedience have influenced our tendencies to people-please, and why understanding and respecting differences—rather than merely mirroring others—is crucial for authentic connections. Finally, we'll explore the vital role of boundaries in breaking free from people-pleasing patterns and how to recognize and change these behaviors to foster more fulfilling relationships. So, if you're ready to change your people pleasing habits and create more fulfilling relationships, this episode is for you! Let's do this Flirties, and meet Natalie! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy- all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! About our guest:  Natalie Lue, 47, is a writer, artist, podcaster, and author of five books, including Mr Unavailable and the Fallback Girl and her most recent, The Joy of Saying No. She helps people pleasers, perfectionists and relationship strugglers reclaim themselves from their emotional baggage so that they can become more of who they really are and enjoy more fulfilling relationships relationships, careers, and experiences. Her key topics include boundaries, emotional unavailability, and how to foster increased emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual well-being by breaking harmful and unhelpful patterns. Natalie's work has been featured in various media, including The New York Times, ITV's Lorraine, NPR, BBC, Washington Post, Stylist, and USA Today. You can connect with Natalie on Instagram, learn more about the Baggage Reclaim Sessions podcast and blog, and check out her books and work on her website. About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage. Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self. His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, and Yoga Journal. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.

Coming up on this episode of Flirtations, we're talking about neurodivergence and dating with our guest, Mady Snyder, a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in working with late-diagnosed neurodivergent individuals and couples! Whew, I am so ready! Dating is a complex journey for most, but for those with neurodivergence, it can present distinct challenges and yet many opportunities.​ Today, we'll discuss:​ What is neurodivergence and what are the strengths of the neurodivergent person? Navigating Social Cues: The complexities of interpreting social signals, understanding flirting, and the challenges posed by dating experiences like ghosting. Sensory Sensitivities: How can heightened sensory experiences impact dating? Rejection sensitivity: What are the ways this shows up and what can we do about rejection in dating? Communication:  How might differences in communication styles and expectations lead to misunderstandings, and what are some strategies that are helpful here? Why the neurodivergent person might just be a superconnector! Masking:  the function of masking, how we can unmask, and ultimately bring more vulnerability and authenticity into the dating process And honestly, much more! So, whether you're neurodivergent yourself, dating someone who is, or simply interested in understanding diverse dating experiences, this conversation is for you! Let's do this Flirties, and meet Mady! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy- all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! About your guest:  Mady Snyder, LMFT, is a neurodiversity-affirming therapist based in Pasadena, California, offering both in-person and virtual sessions. She specializes in working with late-identified autistic and ADHD adults, with a focus on identity, relationships, and the often-overlooked nuances of neurodivergent dating. Mady brings warmth, humor, and deep insight to her work, creating spaces where neurodivergent individuals feel seen, supported, and celebrated as their full selves. Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchspace/ Website https://www.madysnyder.com/ Infographics on Autism https://neurodivergentinsights.com/autism-infographics/ ADHD Infographics https://neurodivergentinsights.com/adhd-infographics/ Self Assessments for Autism, ADHD, OCD, Others https://embrace-autism.com/autism-tests/ Live Your Values Card Deck https://lisacongdon.com/products/values-deck Camouflaging https://embrace-autism.com/autism-and-camouflaging/ ND Therapist Directory  https://ndtherapists.com/ About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage. Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self. His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, and Yoga Journal. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.

“You were the chosen one!” Join your favorite TransAtlantic podcasting crew – Ian, Liam & Megs (Kev's off-planet this week, likely negotiating with the Trade Federation) – as we ignite our lightsabers, spin into some space politics, and plunge into the dark side for our 270th episode covering Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith (2005). We're trading poisoned apples for Order 66 and flying headfirst into the fall of Anakin Skywalker as we discuss: Whether Revenge of the Sith sticks the landing for the prequel trilogy—or crashes harder than General Grievous' escape pod. Does the film finally deliver the emotional payoff the prequels promised? Is Anakin's fall convincing… or did he turn to the dark side over some bad dreams? Why does the reason for Anakin's turn seem inconsistent in this one Are Restie award winners, Hayden Christensen and Natalie Portman any better this go around or is a back-to-back a likely result? We talk about our philosophical stances and what happens when 2 of them crash into each other? Which Jedi we'd most likely be – and who's clearly the Palpatine of the group Is this film secretly the best prequel—or just the least clunky one? Where does the Anakin/Obi Wan light saber fight fall in the history of duels in Star Wars? Speaking of gripes – was Padmé done dirty by giving her nothing to do? Does George Lucas understand love? We ask how Order 66 compares to another major franchise's big emotional disaster Whether Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith is the Best Film Ever. Become a Patron of this podcast and support the BFE at https://www.patreon.com/BFE. We are extremely thankful to our following Patrons for their most generous support: Juleen from It Goes Down In The PM Hermes Auslander James DeGuzman Synthia Shai Bergerfroind Ariannah Who Loves BFE The Most Andy Dickson Chris Pedersen Duane Smith (Duane Smith!) Randal Silva Nate The Great Rev Bruce Cheezy (with a fish on a bike) Richard Ryan Kuketz Dirk Diggler Stew from the Stew World Order podcast NorfolkDomus John Humphrey's Right Foot Timmy Tim Tim Aashrey Buy some BFE merch at https://my-store-b4e4d4.creator-spring.com/. Massive thanks to Lex Van Den Berghe for the use of Mistake by Luckydog. Catch more from Lex's new band, The Maids of Honor, at https://soundcloud.com/themaidsofhonor. Also, massive thanks to Moonlight Social for our age game theme song. You can catch more from them at https://www.moonlightsocialmusic.com/.

Coming up on this episode of Flirtations, we're joined by Jessica Maguire, a renowned expert in nervous system regulation and repair, and author of the book The Nervous System Reset, to have a conversation with us about not only healing the nervous system - but healing the connection with ourselves in the process. First, we explore what often gets overlooked in nervous work and initial steps you can take to get off the rollercoaster of emotions in dating, and perhaps in life.  Jessica shares how we can regulate our nervous systems amidst the uncertainties of dating, even when someone pulls back or pushes your buttons. We get into the anxious and avoidant nervous systems differ, the different protective responses we have when we're anxious, how the body stores emotions, and how neuroplasticity offers hope for repairing the nervous system. You can repattern your nervous system and indeed find calm amidst the storm. Finally, we'll learn how to feel safe in our body and sit with uncomfortable feelings, even if that's challenging or impossible before.  So, whether you're navigating the dating world or seeking a deeper understanding of you and your nervous system, this episode is for you! Let's do this Flirties, and meet Jessica! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy, all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! About our guest:  Jessica stands at the forefront of nervous system regulation as a renowned physiotherapist and groundbreaking vagus nerve researcher. Her international bestseller, "The Nervous System Reset," has established her as the definitive voice in helping individuals overcome dysregulation. Jessica's teachings represent an important paradigm shift in understanding the brain-body connection. She distills over two decades of rigorous study, groundbreaking research, and proven clinical experience into practical, actionable frameworks. that have transformed thousands of lives worldwide. Through her innovative frameworks, and protocols Jessica has empowered thousands of students across six continents to fundamentally transform their nervous systems, resulting in: Enhanced resilience to stress and environmental triggers Improved cognitive function and emotional regulation Sustainable physiological balance and improved overall wellbeing Jessica has delivered keynotes to New South Wales Police and is also a distinguished TEDx speaker. She has shared thought leadership pieces with the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age that included her personal story: the loss of her two brothers, Sam and Luke.  Learn more about Jessica's work and the Vagus Nerve Program here and follow Jessica on Instagram! About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage. Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self. His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, and Yoga Journal. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.

FIRST 36:00: Spoiler-Free Review with our See It/Skip It Verdict AFTER 36:00: Full Spoiler Review It's another Sunday edition of See It or Skip It and this time Ian is joined by BFF of the BFE to tackle the Marvel anti-hero team-up Phase Five film Thunderbolts* (2025), Marvel's messiest group project yet.  Does Jake Schreier bring something fresh to a story about second chances and dangerous alliances—or is it all attitude with no real heart? Does the film's central theme and newest character go to a brave place for Marvel in discussing some very real places in the very silly comic book world or is it in danger of glorifying a self-destroying pattern of behaviour. Was Bucky actually beneficial in this story or was he just some MCU star power to give the group legitimacy.  Could the film have worked if we'd made Bucky the main character? Where does Thunderbolts* fit among Marvel's post-snap catalogue? Ian & James tackle all these questions and more in this week's See It or Skip It review of Thunderbolts*—and then they tell you whether you should SEE IT or SKIP IT.  

Coming up on this episode of Flirtations, we welcome Ashley Maland, Host of the "This Is Where We Heal" Podcast, to have a conversation with us about the complex journey of surviving an abusive relationship. We'll uncover how to begin healing from abusive and toxic relationships—whether it's domestic violence, sexual assault, or the emotional scars left by narcissistic abuse—and discover the initial steps you can take if you find yourself in a harmful or volatile situation.  Ashley shares her insights on trusting yourself, practicing self-forgiveness, and how we can build healthy foundations in early dating without rushing, falling into self-sabotage, or repeating old patterns. Together, we'll talk about how your most loving, authentic self is the best version of you—even if past experiences have left you feeling hardened—and how to shift from a victim mentality to that of a victor.  We'll also ask the tough questions, like are all abusers narcissists? Is there really a rock bottom moment, or is that just an illusion? Why is it so hard to break free from an abuser? If you're ready to believe in what's possible, trust your inner voice, and reclaim your power in love and life, then this episode is for you.  Alright Flirties, let's go on on healing journey with Ashley Maland. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy, all over the world! Enjoying the show and want to support my work? Buy the Flirt Coach a coffee! About our guest:  Ashley Taylor Maland is a multi-talented social media influencer, writer, and healing from DV & SA advocate. With a dedicated following of over half a million followers, she has garnered widespread attention for her impactful content, including viral videos that have amassed over 20 million views. Ashley's platform serves as a space for discussions on healing, authenticity, toxic relationships, self-belief, and self-improvement. Ashley is a resilient single mother who balances her various roles with grace and determination. As the podcast host for “This Is Where We Heal” she utilizes her platform to amplify important conversations and share empowering stories. Using her own experiences to raise awareness and offer support to others facing similar challenges in relationships and healing. Driven by her belief in the power of authenticity, Ashley strives to inspire and encourage her audience to embrace their true selves, prioritize self-care, and break free from toxic relationships. Her unwavering commitment to personal growth and empowerment has solidified her reputation as a positive force in the online community. Her podcast “This Is Where We Heal” can be found on Apple, Spotify & YouTube. Listen to the This is Where We Heal Podcast, and follow Ashley on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy - with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun! As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the Flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic, romantic, and with the self - to take center stage. Ultimately, this practice of connection helps flirters and daters alike create stronger relationships, transcend limiting beliefs, and develop an unwavering love for the self. His work has been featured in Fortune, NBC News, The Huffington Post, and Yoga Journal. You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.