Falling in love and building a relationship is beautiful, but that doesn’t mean you should lose yourself in the process. The strongest relationships are built on two whole, fulfilled individuals coming together, not one person revolving their life around the other.

In this episode, we’re discussing how to keep your independence while still being in a happy, healthy, connected relationship. From maintaining your hobbies and friendships to having your own voice, freedom, and financial independence, here’s how to stay you while growing with someone else.

You’ve been on a few dates, you think you like him, but there’s just something that makes you wonder… Is he really into me, or am I just hoping he is? Maybe he texts inconsistently, takes forever to make plans, or seems interested one day and distant the next. So, how do you know if he’s truly into you—or just keeping you around as an option?

In this episode, we’re breaking down the signs that a guy is genuinely interested vs. the red flags that indicate he’s just not that into you. Plus, we’ll talk about what you can do if you’re stuck in that uncertain phase, so you don’t waste your time on the wrong person. 

We’ve all heard the saying “the grass is greener on the other side,” but here’s the truth: the grass is greener where you water it. In life, love, and everything in between, what you put in is what you get out.

In this episode, we’re talking about how to stop comparing your life to others and start focusing on your own garden. Whether it’s your relationship, your personal goals, your sex life, or your self-growth—when you give it energy, love, and attention, it flourishes.

Let’s get real—compromise is part of every healthy relationship, but that doesn’t mean you should settle. There’s a big difference between making space for someone else’s needs and completely giving up your own. So how do you strike the balance?

In this episode, we’re talking about how to compromise without losing who you are. From relationships to career choices to life goals, it’s about knowing what truly matters to you—and what’s flexible. Let’s dive into how to navigate give-and-take while still honoring your standards, values, and self-worth.

The date’s wrapping up. The conversation flowed, there was chemistry, and then… he leans in or asks if he can kiss you. What do you do? Is kissing on the first date too much, or is it the perfect way to see if there’s a spark?

In this episode, we’re talking all about the first date kiss—when to go for it, when to hold off, how to handle it if he asks, and how to trust your instincts without overthinking it. 

Nobody is perfect—even the guy you really like is bound to have something that drives you crazy. Maybe he chews gum like a cow, is constantly late, or wears way too much cologne. The question is: Can you live with it, or is it something that needs to be addressed?

In this episode, we’re breaking down how to handle annoying habits in a relationship—when to let things go, when to speak up, and how to bring it up without causing unnecessary tension. Because the little things can add up, but they don’t have to be dealbreakers.

Dating can be exciting, nerve-wracking, and, let’s be honest, a little awkward if the conversation doesn’t flow. So what do you talk about to keep things engaging, fun, and effortless? You want to leave the date feeling like you got to know each other—not like you were interviewing for a job or sitting through a therapy session. In this episode, we’re breaking down the best conversation topics for a date—what to bring up, what to avoid, and how to make sure you both leave wanting more. Whether you’re new to dating or just need a refresher, we’ve got you covered.

Website: www.janisspindelmatchmaker.com

Connect on Instagram/Facebook: @janisandcarlyspindel

Books:

- Get Serious About Getting Married: 365 Proven Ways to Find Love in Less Than a Year

- How to Date Men: Dating Secrets from America's Top Matchmaker

Photo credit: Mike McGregor Photography

You’re dating someone who checks a lot of the boxes—they’re kind, attractive, successful—but something just feels off. Maybe it’s the chemistry, the excitement, or that spark you can’t quite put your finger on. So what do you do? In this episode, we’re talking about what to do when something feels "missing" in a relationship. Do you communicate and give it a chance, or do you walk away? How do you figure out if this is something that can be fixed—or if it’s a dealbreaker? Let’s break it down.

Website: www.janisspindelmatchmaker.com

Connect on Instagram/Facebook: @janisandcarlyspindel

Books:

- Get Serious About Getting Married: 365 Proven Ways to Find Love in Less Than a Year

- How to Date Men: Dating Secrets from America's Top Matchmaker

Photo credit: Mike McGregor Photography

First dates can be exciting, but having your radar up is also important. While you’re getting to know someone, it’s important to observe their behavior and notice if anything feels… off. Red flags on a first date don’t always scream “run,” but they do offer clues about how someone might act in a relationship. This episode is all about the subtle (and not-so-subtle) warning signs that could signal this person isn’t right for you. From how they treat waitstaff to excessive negativity about their ex, we’re breaking down what to watch for so you can date smarter and save yourself time, energy, and heartache.

Website:www.janisspindelmatchmaker.com

Connect on Instagram/Facebook: @janisandcarlyspindel

Books:

- Get Serious About Getting Married: 365 Proven Ways to Find Love in Less Than a Year

- How to Date Men: Dating Secrets from America's Top Matchmaker

Photo credit: Mike McGregor Photography

You’re thinking about him. You pick up your phone. You start typing… but then you hesitate. Should you text first? Or should you wait for him to reach out? You don’t want to seem too eager, but you also don’t want to play games. In this episode, we’re breaking down the rules (or lack of rules) when it comes to texting first. When is it okay? When should you hold back? And how do you text in a way that keeps the energy balanced?

Website: www.janisspindelmatchmaker.com

Connect on Instagram/Facebook: @janisandcarlyspindel

Books:

- Get Serious About Getting Married: 365 Proven Ways to Find Love in Less Than a Year

- How to Date Men: Dating Secrets from America's Top Matchmaker

Photo credit: Mike McGregor Photography