Dating with Intention: Becoming the Partner You Seek

Episode Summary:
In this lively and insightful conversation, co-hosts (and Zessio Co-Founders) Mandi Roarke, LMFT, and Dr. Sapna Srivastava welcome special guest Dr. Sarah Kyle—licensed therapist, dating coach, and co-host of the podcast Dateable AF. Together, they dive into the complexities of dating with intention, building self-awareness, and becoming "relationship ready."

Drawing from both clinical expertise and real-life experiences, they explore how internal work, nervous system awareness, character discernment, and authentic communication can all shape healthier dating experiences—and ultimately lead to more fulfilling relationships.

Key Topics Discussed:

• What it means to "date with intention"
  
  
• How to become the partner you’re seeking
  
  
• Decoding nervous system cues: butterflies, anxiety, and green flags
  
  
• The difference between chemistry and character
  
  
• The myth of the "perfect partner" and avoiding settling out of fatigue
  
  
• Redefining your dating "list": what’s truly a dealbreaker vs. a preference
  
  
• Recognizing limerence (infatuation) vs. sustainable love
  
  
• Building self-trust after heartbreak or bad relationships
  
  
• The power of maintaining friendship and kindness in long-term relationships
  
  
• Why growth is a lifelong, spiraling process—not a final destination
  
  
• Actionable ways to "do the work" outside of therapy
  
  
• Why being your authentic self is the ultimate dating strategy
  
  
  

Resources Mentioned:

• Book: You Are the One You’ve Been Waiting For by Dr. Richard Schwartz (IFS founder)
  
  
• Book: Mating in Captivity by Esther Perel
  
  
• Book: Wired for Dating by Stan Tatkin
  
  
• Concepts: Spiral staircase of growth, sound relationship house by John Gottman, the importance of kindness and generosity in maintaining connection
  
  

Guest Links:

• Website:  www.sarahkyle.com
  
  
• Podcast: Dateable AF (available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more)
  
  
• Dateability Assessment & Resources: getdateable.com
  
  
  

Connect with Zessio:

• Instagram: @myzessio
  
  
• Website & Resources: zessio.com
  
  

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