Dating in today’s world can feel confusing, lonely, and (thanks to the apps) a lot like a part-time job with no benefits. But what if finding a connection isn’t about chasing elusive chemistry, endlessly scrolling, or pretending to be someone you’re not? Enter Dr. Frankie Bashan: a clinical psychologist, longtime connector, and pioneering LGBTQIA+ matchmaker whose mission is to help every person find authentic love, no matter what boxes they check.

In this conversation, Dr. Frankie joins Erin to share her personal story and lift the veil on what really works (and what doesn’t) when it comes to finding partnership in midlife, especially for those outside the hetero dating mainstream. We dive into:

1. Turning your strengths and superpowers into a career
2. The power and success that come from finding your niche in business and serving underserved communities
3. Why dating apps are designed to keep you wanting, not finding, and how matchmaking flips the script
4. Why chasing the “fireworks” in dating chemistry can be a trap and not a path to a healthy, sustainable relationship
5. How your “list” might be holding you back, and why letting go of overly specific criteria in favor of three core dealmakers can open you up to real connection
6. How matchmaking for the LGBTQ+ community is different and what straight daters can learn from queer dating wisdom

OUR GUEST: Dr. Frankie Bashan is a clinical psychologist, sex therapist, and founder of Little Gay Book, the leading LGBTQ+ matchmaking service in the U.S. With over 20 years of experience supporting queer individuals and couples, she combines emotional intelligence, intuition, and a personalized approach to help clients find meaningful, lasting love. Known for her emotional intelligence and trauma-informed approach, Dr. Frankie boasts an 85% matchmaking success rate to support clients around the world. She also co-hosts MTV’s Are You The One and offers coaching globally via Zoom.

Want more Dr. Frankie? Find her and her matchmaking services online at https://littlegaybook.com and follow her on Instagram at @littlegaybookmatchmaking

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Mentioned in this episode:

Broad Collective

Learn more about Broad Collective and our membership network for midlife women entrepreneurs at broadcollective.com.