In this thoughtful and surprisingly funny episode of Badass Basic Bitch, Brianna sits down with New York Times bestselling author, relationship coach, and mental health advocate Allison Raskin to unpack what healthy relationships actually look like in today’s world.

From modern marriage and dating culture to anxiety, OCD, and the unrealistic expectations we place on our partners, Allison shares why relationships aren’t something we’re simply born knowing how to navigate—they’re skills we learn over time.

The conversation also dives into Allison’s upcoming romantic comedy, Compulsively Yours, which offers an authentic portrayal of OCD through the lens of love. Together, Brianna and Allison discuss the difference between Hollywood romance and real relationships, why reassurance can become addictive, and how understanding your own mental health is one of the greatest gifts you can give your partner.

If you’ve ever questioned whether you’re “doing relationships right,” struggled with anxiety in love, or wondered if modern dating has made finding a healthy partnership more difficult, this episode is one you won’t want to miss.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

✨ How modern marriage has evolved—and why that’s actually a good thing

✨ Why healthy relationships are built through skills, not luck

✨ The unrealistic expectations we place on romantic partners

✨ Why “If they wanted to, they would” isn’t always healthy relationship advice

✨ How anxiety and OCD show up differently inside relationships

✨ The truth about relationship OCD and constant reassurance seeking

✨ Why communication matters more than mind-reading

✨ How dating apps and social media shape today’s relationships

✨ The inspiration behind Allison’s new rom-com, Compulsively Yours

✨ Why learning your own attachment patterns can change your relationships forever

Memorable Quote

“Being a partner is a skill, and we can get better at it.” — Allison Raskin

Key Takeaways

Modern Marriage Is Built on Choice, Not Necessity

Unlike previous generations, today’s marriages are increasingly formed because people genuinely want to build a life together—not because society expects them to. That shift has created opportunities for healthier, more intentional relationships.

Healthy Relationships Require Communication

The right partner isn’t someone who magically knows exactly what you need. The healthiest relationships are built when both people communicate openly, listen to each other, and continue learning how to love one another well.

Anxiety Can Change the Way We Experience Love

For people living with anxiety or OCD, relationships can become filled with uncertainty, intrusive thoughts, and the constant search for reassurance. Understanding these patterns helps reduce shame and creates space for healthier connections.

Comparison Is One of the Biggest Relationship Traps

Whether it’s dating apps creating endless options or social media showcasing curated relationships, comparison often distracts us from appreciating what’s actually in front of us. Real relationships are built behind closed doors—not on highlight reels.

Great Relationships Are Built by Two People Willing to Grow

No partnership is effortless. The strongest relationships happen when both people are committed to learning, improving, and working through challenges together rather than expecting perfection.

Connect with Allison Raskin

📱 Instagram:
@allisonraskin

🎵 TikTok:
@allisonraskinbaby

🌐 Website:
www.allisonraskin.com

📚 Books:
Compulsively Yours (coming soon) and Save the Date—available wherever books are sold.

🎙 Podcast:
Starter Marriage

Connect with Badass Basic Bitch

📱 Instagram:
@badassbasicbitchpodcast

🎙 Hosted by:
Brianna Dunbar-DeMike