I’m so excited to share this week’s powerful story, featuring a journey of resilience, radical self-growth, and finding remarkable love later in life. In this unforgettable episode, you’ll meet our client Shari—a vibrant, creative powerhouse who, after divorce and two breakups with the same man, rewrote her love story at 64.

Yes, you read that right. Three chapters. One love. Two rounds with Smart Dating Academy.  And a lot of healing in between.

Shari’s story is full of heart, humor, and deep wisdom about what it takes to truly attract the right partner—and how to recognize your person even when life throws curveballs (and maybe even a little divine intervention).

We talked about:

💔 Life After Divorce & Starting Over:

After 24 years of marriage and being the first in her friend group to divorce, Shari felt completely untethered. Can you relate to that “lost at sea” feeling? She shares how she built a new life piece by piece, starting with getting back to work and rediscovering who she was outside of being a mom and wife.

🛠️ Doing the Work—For Real:

Two breakups with Dave were the wake-up call she didn’t know she needed. Shari went all-in on self-growth: Smart Dating Academy, therapy/EMDR, dating with intention, and more!  She dove into creativity and travel, realizing that independence is a muscle that needs to be exercised.

🔁 When He Came Back (Twice!):

Every chapter with Dave came with its own set of lessons. The first time was magical but emotionally stuck. The second was deep but still misaligned. The third? That’s where the transformation happened. For both of them. Dave realized his issues, and was now doing his work too.

❤️ What Made the Third Time Different:

The universe got involved (seriously—wait until you hear about all the serendipitous sightings), and this time, it was different. With honesty, clarity, and deep commitment to each other’s growth, they reunited—this time forever. No games. No guesswork. Just mutual respect, love, and a whole lot of laughter.

🎯 Relationship Lessons You’ll Take Away:

Shari’s story is a story for anyone who thinks it might be too late, or too hard, or that they’re too much. Her journey reminds us that healing is nonlinear, love can evolve, and when two people are truly growth-minded, the possibilities are… well, remarkable.

Ready to redefine your dating life or need guidance on your journey to love? Visit Smart Dating Academy to learn more about our transformative programs.

We’ve all been there—betrayed, blindsided, or just broken open by love gone wrong. But what if your biggest heartbreak could lead you to your biggest breakthrough?

In this rich, soul-stirring conversation, Bela sits down with Arielle Ford—bestselling author, spiritual teacher, and modern-day love alchemist—to talk about her first novel, The Love Thief. Part spiritual romance, part thriller, this story takes readers on a wild emotional ride through heartbreak, karma, and ultimately, deep healing.

With her signature wisdom and warmth, Arielle opens up about the real-life inspiration behind the book (yes, some of it really happened), how her own journeys through India shaped the mystical elements of the story, and why she believes healing our hearts is the ultimate act of self-love.

Whether you’re recovering from a relationship that shook you to your core—or you’re simply craving a juicy, wise read that blends love with spiritual insight—this episode will crack your heart wide open in the best way.

💥 In this episode, you’ll hear:

🫶 How The Love Thief was born from experiences with heartbreak

🧠 The psychology behind why smart women fall for narcissists and sociopaths

🚩 Red flags to watch out for in love—and how to stop ignoring them

🌍 What Arielle discovered on her spiritual journeys through India

🔮 Why Arielle says "you should ALWAYS listen to Bela!"

🎭 Why happiness might be the wrong goal—and what to aim for instead

🎶 What love actually is - and isn't!   

✨ Plus: how you can rewrite your love story, one conscious choice at a time.

Whether you’ve been burned by love or you’re finally ready to turn the page on a painful chapter, this conversation is your reminder that you can rebuild—and you don’t have to do it alone. Arielle shows us that heartbreak isn’t the end of your story…it might just be the beginning of your most powerful transformation yet - and that you should enlist the help of Smart Dating Academy to help you along the way!

Here is a link to the pre-sale of Arielle's book so you can redeem the bonuses! https://www.arielleford.com/the-love-thief/

Ready to redefine your dating life or need guidance on your journey to love? Visit Smart Dating Academy to learn more about our transformative programs.

💌 Ghosting, Modern Dating & Advice You Actually Need with Meredith Goldstein

Let’s face it—dating in the digital age is a wild ride. One minute you’re vibing in the DMs, the next… they vanish into thin air. If you’ve ever wished for a wise older sister (with a killer sense of humor) to decode modern love for you, this episode is it.

In this honest, hilarious, and totally validating convo, I sit down with Meredith Goldstein—beloved Boston Globe advice columnist and author of the “Love Letters” column and podcast—to unpack the messy, magical, and maddening ways we fall for each other in today’s world.

Meredith has been answering love and relationship questions for over 15 years, offering grounded, compassionate advice that makes you feel seen. Her memoir, Can’t Help Myself, and YA novel Chemistry Lessons prove she knows a thing or two about both heartache and humor.

In this episode, you’ll hear us dive into:

👻 What ghosting really says (and how to stop blaming yourself)

📝 The behind-the-scenes of writing a wildly popular advice column

💡 Why your questions—no matter how “silly” they seem—deserve to be heard

🦠 The emotional complexity of pandemic dating, and what it taught us about connection  

🤝 How empathy can be your secret weapon in dating (yes, even when you’re pissed)

Whether you're in the dating trenches, trying to figure out where it all went wrong, or just love a good love story, this episode is a balm for your heart—and a laugh-out-loud reminder that you are not alone.

🎧 Press play and get ready for some refreshingly real talk about love, loss, and everything in between.

Ready to redefine your dating life or need guidance on your journey to love? Visit Smart Dating Academy to learn more about our transformative programs.

What if flirting wasn’t awkward, dating didn’t feel like a second job, and attracting love could be playful and powerful?

In this episode of the Smart Dating Academy Podcast, I sit down with the dazzling Lauren Frances, and let me tell you—she brings the magic. From the moment she opens her mouth, you’ll understand why she’s been dubbed The Flirt Fairy by Victoria’s Secret and The Doctor of Love by EXTRA. Lauren knows how to light up a room—and more importantly, how to help you do the same in your love life.

We get into it all: how to flirt without feeling fake, why boundaries are the ultimate aphrodisiac, and how to gracefully exit the “situationship spiral.” If you’ve ever felt like your romantic GPS was off, Lauren’s loving (and hilariously spot-on) advice will have you re-routing with a smile.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

If you’ve ever felt like dating was more stress than sparkle, this episode will remind you that love isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being playful, powerful, and totally aligned with who you are. You’re not too late. You’re not too much. You’re just getting started.

Ready to redefine your dating life or need guidance on your journey to love? Visit Smart Dating Academy to learn more about our transformative programs.

If you’re done with surface-level situationships and ready for soul-stirring, conscious connection—this one’s for you. ✨

In this episode, I sit down with internationally recognized dating and relationship coach Angela Nicole Holton for a heart-opening, no-fluff conversation about what it really takes to attract lasting, authentic love.

Angela was named one of Yahoo’s Top 10 Relationship Coaches of 2020 and is the author of “Date Night Ideas for Couples” (endorsed by none other than Dr. John Gray of Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus) and “The Secret Method to Conscious Love.” She teaches dating from the inside-out, helping individuals and couples tap into their authentic truth so they can love—and be loved—fully and fearlessly.

This conversation will inspire you to ask better questions (of yourself and others), show up with unapologetic authenticity, and date in a way that feels good in your soul.

We get into:

💫 Why being present matters more than being impressive — and how authentic energy makes you magnetic on a first date.

🧠 How curiosity and intentional questions spark real connection — and turn first dates into powerful data collection, not performance.

✨ The game-changing role of self-worth in dating — and how doing the inner work shifts what (and who) you attract.

  🚩 Why honoring your truth helps you date with clarity — and how tuning into your feelings reveals whether someone truly aligns.  

🧘‍♀️ How self-love transforms your dating life — and why the relationship with yourself is always the starting point.

Angela's wisdom is deep, soulful, and practical—like having your most evolved, heart-centered girlfriend give you the loving truth.

If you’re craving a new way to date—one that feels aligned, conscious, and truly magnetic—this episode will have you rethinking everything (in the best way possible).

🎧 Tune in now and get ready to date with more purpose, power, and pleasure.

Ready to redefine your dating life or need guidance on your journey to love? Visit Smart Dating Academy to learn more about our transformative programs.

Let’s face it—first dates can be awkward. You’re sitting across from someone new, trying to figure out if there’s a spark… while also wondering what the heck to say next. Sound familiar?

In this juicy episode of the Smart Dating Academy Podcast, I sit down with the incredible Dr. Jess Carbino—often dubbed “the Dr. Ruth of the Swipe Right generation.” With a resume that includes time as the in-house sociologist at Tinder and Bumble (yes, really!), and now on her second doctorate in clinical psychology, Jess brings savvy to the world of modern dating.

Together, we dig into the art of creating real conversation on first dates—the kind that moves beyond surface-level chit-chat and into connection territory. 💡

You’ll learn:

Whether you're getting ready for date #1, date #100, or just starting to dip your toe back in the dating pool, this episode is your conversational compass. Trust me—after hearing this, you’ll walk into your next first date feeling confident, curious, and totally in your element.

👉 Tune in now and let’s get the convo going!

Ready to redefine your dating life or need guidance on your journey to love? Visit Smart Dating Academy to learn more about our transformative programs.

Let’s be real—dating at any phase can feel like walking a conversational tightrope. How much is too much? What’s not enough?  When should I ask?  What do I say if they ask me about something that I don't want to talk about?  And how do you strike that magical balance between showing up as your radiant, authentic self and still being curious, fun, and engaging?

In Part 2 of our juicy conversation, I’m back with the brilliant Lindsay Anderson, one of Smart Dating Academy’s most beloved coaches, and we’re continuing our deep dive into how to absolutely crush it on a first date.

We cover:

💥 Why “go-to” questions matter—and the one thing they must do if you want real connection

🧠 How to prepare (mentally and emotionally) so you don’t blank out or get stuck in small talk

🤔 The difference between curious and interrogating—and how to make your date feel seen, not screened

🙋 The right questions to ask to delve deeper into this person's background that are CRITICAL to know!   

✨ How to keep the vibe light, flirty, and fun, even when you’re diving into deeper topics

🚫 The “date derailers” that can unintentionally kill the spark (and what to do instead!)

💬 How to gracefully redirect a convo that’s gone off course

🧭 Why self-awareness is your dating superpower—and how to tap into it

This episode is about more than just asking the right questions. It’s about showing up in a way that makes your date want to get to know you - and YOU get to know them by asking and listening for the RIGHT things. It’s about enjoying the moment, being present, and creating space for genuine connection.

Because here’s the truth: The best dates don’t feel like interviews. They feel like magic. ✨

So, whether you're just getting back out there or want to elevate your dating game, press play now. You’re going to love this one. 💕

Ready to redefine your dating life or need guidance on your journey to love? Visit Smart Dating Academy to learn more about our transformative programs.

Ever wonder what makes a truly great date, and what are the best questions to ask (and how)? In this must-listen episode (part 1 of 2), the brilliant and longstanding Smart Dating Academy coach Lindsay Anderson and I sit down to break down the art of dating with confidence, ease, and authenticity. If you’ve ever felt awkward on a date, struggled with what to say or what to ask, or worried about making a lasting impression, this episode is for you! ✨

We dive into:

The key traits of a great date 💡—and how to show up as your best, most authentic self.

How to spark meaningful conversations 🗣️—and avoid awkward silences.

The most important questions to ask on a date ❓—and how to ask them in a way that feels natural and engaging.

The biggest dating conversation mistakes 🚫—and how to turn them into connection-building moments.

If dating feels more stressful than fun, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Tune in to learn practical, expert-backed strategies to help you date with confidence and enjoy the process. ❤️

Ready to redefine your dating life or need guidance on your journey to love? Visit Smart Dating Academy to learn more about our transformative programs.

Ever ignored a red flag 🚩, hoping it would go away? Or felt blindsided by betrayal? You’re not alone—and it’s time to get real about why we sometimes lie to ourselves in relationships.

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Jane Greer, a renowned marriage and family therapist, psychotherapist, and author of Am I Lying to Myself? How to Overcome Denial and See the Truth. With decades of experience helping people navigate love, loss, and trust, Dr. Greer reveals how denial and betrayal shape our relationships—and how to break free from patterns that hold us back.

We dive into:

💡 Why we stay in denial about relationship problems. Whether it’s a bad partner, an unhealthy dynamic, or something we don’t want to admit—Dr. Greer explains why we turn a blind eye (and how to stop).

💡 The psychology behind betrayal. How does betrayal happen? And why does it hurt so much? Get expert insight into the emotional impact of broken trust.

💡 Red flags you shouldn’t ignore. Learn the subtle (and not-so-subtle) warning signs that signal it’s time to pay attention.

💡 How to rebuild trust after betrayal. If you’ve been hurt, is there a way forward? Dr. Greer shares strategies for healing, whether you choose to stay or walk away.

💡 Breaking free from toxic relationship patterns. Do you find yourself in the same situations over and over? Here’s how to change your story and start making better choices.

If you’re ready to stop making excuses, see the truth in your relationships, and build healthier connections, this episode is a must-listen!

Ready to redefine your dating life or need guidance on your journey to love? Visit Smart Dating Academy to learn more about our transformative programs.

Ever feel like you're giving too much in relationships—and getting little in return? Or struggling to communicate what you truly need? You’re not alone.

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Henry Cloud, a world-renowned clinical psychologist, leadership expert, and New York Times bestselling author of Boundaries—a book that has transformed the way millions navigate relationships. With over 20 million copies of his books sold, Dr. Cloud brings deep wisdom (and a dose of humor) to the art of setting healthy limits while still fostering connection.

We dive into:

Why boundaries are essential for thriving relationships. Whether in dating, friendships, or family dynamics, Dr. Cloud explains why saying no can actually bring you closer to the right people.

How to recognize unhealthy patterns. Learn the red flags of toxic relationships and how to break free from cycles that drain your energy.

The secret to confident communication. Struggling to express your needs? Dr. Cloud shares simple yet powerful ways to set boundaries without guilt or fear.

Dating with emotional intelligence. Discover how self-awareness can help you attract healthier, more fulfilling connections.

Overcoming the fear of rejection. Rejection isn’t just about the other person—it’s about how you respond. Dr. Cloud offers a fresh perspective that will change the way you see it.

If you're ready to level up your relationships and stop settling for less than you deserve, this episode is packed with actionable insights you won’t want to miss!

Ready to redefine your dating life or need guidance on your journey to love? Visit Smart Dating Academy to learn more about our transformative programs.