Today's guest is Dr. Mike Strand, an established psychologist with a private practice here in Austin. We're excited about this one.

Find out more about Mike:

connectedcounselingwellness.com

In this episode, we discuss a trending Instagram reel, answer a question from Reddit, and explore the topic of trust in relationships.

We then go deep with Mike, who shares insights on dating, relationships, and internal family systems. The conversation covers topics such as gender differences in attraction, the importance of trust in relationships, and the four horsemen of the relationship apocalypse.

Mike also discusses his private practice and upcoming workshops on relationship building.

We discuss Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy and its application in personal growth and relationships. We explore the concept of parts within ourselves, including protectors, managers, firefighters, and exiles. We emphasize the importance of developing a relationship with these parts and cultivating self-energy.

We also discuss the legacy burdens we carry from our parents and the potential for healing and transformation through IFS. Mike shares an exercise for exploring and understanding our parts, and we discuss the benefits of working with a trained practitioner.

Welcome back to the show! Today our guest is Cory Smith, a business coach and socializing teacher here in Austin.

Find out more about Cory and his work: coryjsmith.com

In this episode of the podcast, we discuss various topics related to conversation, listening, consent, and rejection.

We explore the importance of proximity and touch in gauging interest, as well as the need to approach interactions without expectations.

We also address the question of how to ask for consent without breaking the mood, emphasizing the importance of playfulness, humor, and open communication.

The conversation delves into the art of listening, with tips on eye contact, body language, and asking why questions. We also go into the difference between empathy and compassion, and the importance of setting boundaries in relationships.

We discuss various aspects of dating and relationships, with a focus on the experiences of gay men. We explore topics such as authenticity, consent, rejection, and the challenges of dating apps.

Corey shares his insights on the stages of psychological development for gay men and the prevalence of validation-seeking behavior on dating apps. We also discuss the importance of safety and boundaries in dating, as well as the need for non-bar environments for the LGBTQ+ community.

Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of communication, self-reflection, and personal growth in navigating the dating world.

00:00 Introduction and Overview

02:20 The Importance of Proximity and Touch

05:45 Approaching Interactions without Expectations

07:11 Asking for Consent without Breaking the Mood

37:25 Empathy vs. Compassion

47:28 Setting Boundaries in Relationships

51:05 Authenticity and Communication in Relationships

52:34 Consent and Reframing Rejection

55:46 Challenges and Pitfalls of Dating Apps

58:10 Safety and Boundaries in the LGBTQ+ Dating Scene

01:13:02 Dating as a Gay Man: Challenges and Experiences

01:19:22 Creating Non-Bar Environments for LGBTQ+ Community

01:24:37 Approaching Men and Setting Boundaries

01:28:48 Cautious Consent and Protecting Others

01:35:28 Finding Social Activities and Non-Bar Environments

01:37:13 Coaching Session Offer for Podcast Listeners

Welcome! This week we have an incredible guest, Glaucia Stanganelli. Find more about her:

www.glauciastanganelli.com/

@glaucia_stanganelli or @artbyglaucia on Instagram

In this episode of the Art of Approach podcast, we discuss the role of fashion in dating and relationships with Glaucia. We emphasize the importance of expressing oneself through clothing and style, as it can give a person an edge in the dating market. We also explore the concept of creativity in fashion and how it can be a signal of a person's willingness to invest in a relationship.

The conversation touches on topics such as authenticity, comfort, and the impact of clothing on one's mood and confidence. In this conversation, we and Glaucia discuss the importance of personal style and how it can impact one's confidence and self-perception. We explore the idea of wearing clothes that fit well and flatter one's body shape, as well as the significance of experimenting with different styles and colors. We also touch on the role of shoes in a man's outfit and the importance of being open and receptive in dating and relationships. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the connection between personal style, self-expression, and personal growth.

We're back! After a few weeks off we're back with some great guests in the coming weeks.

Today we discuss the challenges women face in finding attractive men and why some women aren't being approached. We explore the concept of proximity attraction and how it affects dating dynamics. We also share personal experiences and insights on approaching women and the importance of authenticity. The episode concludes with a discussion on the experimental mindset of approaching and the different approaches that work for different individuals.

We then discuss our different approaches to dating and meeting new people. One of us shares his preference for feeling certain that a woman will be open and receptive before approaching her, while the other thrives off the pressure of approaching and enjoys the challenge. We also discuss the importance of getting out of the house and being in social places, as well as the value of approaching and connecting with interesting people, even when in a relationship. We highlight the need for men to continue meeting new people and maintaining a strong social network, rather than solely focusing on their partner.

Find more about us:

Tim IG: @the_approach_coach, theartofapproach.com

Will IG: @willpower_lifestyle, williammulvaney.com, The Willpower Podcast

Welcome back! This week we are joined by Vielka Kano who is an AASECT certified sex therapist here in Austin. You can find out more about her and her work at vielkakano.com.

In this podcast episode, Vielka shares her insights into the field of sex therapy and the critical importance of sexual education. She discusses the widespread misconceptions and challenges people face regarding their sexual desires and needs, emphasizing the need for self-love, safety, and open communication in maintaining healthy sexual relationships.

Vielka explores the concept of polarity and how it can intensify the sexual experience between partners, shedding light on the complexities of sexuality and the necessity for open dialogue and understanding. The discussion also covers finding balance in relationships concerning sexual satisfaction, respecting individual desires, and the benefits of Tantra in deepening emotional connections and enhancing intimacy.

Additionally, the conversation addresses various aspects of sexuality, including the impact of positive associations on desire, the importance of mental health in sexual satisfaction, and methods for cultivating desire and managing common issues like low libido and premature ejaculation. Vielka provides techniques and insights into addressing these concerns.

Further topics include erectile dysfunction, the role of emotions in sex, the effects of pornography on relationships, and maintaining desire in long-term relationships. The importance of communication, consent, exploration, and variety in sexual experiences are highlighted, with Vielka offering advice on keeping relationships vibrant based on her extensive experience as a sex therapist.

Find out about Erik Landry:

Instagram: @vocodojo

Work with him: vocodojo.com

In this podcast episode, we delve into the dynamics of relationships and the intricacies of communication between men and women. We emphasize the importance of understanding and being understood, highlighting the need for clear and open communication to avoid covert manipulation and ensure balanced interactions. We discuss the power of authenticity and the interplay of active and passive roles in building meaningful connections.

We also explore the concept of pseudo-rejection and its potential to cause misunderstandings, stressing the importance of openly expressing feelings. The role of voice in influencing perceptions is examined, with a focus on the importance of relaxation and proper vocal tract space to enhance voice quality.

Further, we address the challenges of approaching women in sensitive environments like gyms and the dynamics of dating multiple people, discussing the ego-driven aspects and the importance of honest intentions. Our discussion extends to the technical and emotional aspects of voice, with insights from Erik, a voice specialist with a background in singing and vocal health, and Tim, an expert in communication science.

We also introduce the Vocal Dojo Voice Center, bridging speech therapy and vocal performance, and discuss the connection between emotions and vocal expression, emphasizing the influence of the limbic system and the importance of conscious breathing.

The conversation concludes with a discussion on the significance of understanding personal archetypes—magician, lover, warrior, and king—to better navigate personal and professional interactions. This exploration into the authenticity and self-awareness underscores the ongoing journey of self-discovery and personal growth, reflecting on how these elements influence our approaches in communication and relationships.

00:00 Introduction to the Dynamics of Relationships

06:15 The Power of Authenticity

10:32 Creating Space for Connection

14:59 Balancing Active and Passive Forces

23:26 Improving Communication through Voice and Relaxation

25:03 The Role of Self-Awareness in Effective Communication

27:21 Building Healthy Relationships through Active Listening and Empathy

36:53 Exploring the Sensation of Space in the Voice

39:20 Navigating the Challenges of Approaching Women at the Gym

41:09 The Dynamics of Dating Multiple People

44:06 The Ego-Driven Desire to be Claimed

49:21 Passion for Vocal Health and Becoming a Voice Specialist

54:45 Bridging the Gap: The Vocal Dojo Voice Center

55:13 Understanding the Archetype of Your Voice

57:25 The Influence of Emotions on Vocal Expression

59:59 The Importance of Conscious Breathing in Exercise

01:09:05 The Interchangeable Roles of Teacher and Student in Vocal Training

01:15:00 Adapting Your Voice and Demeanor

01:19:34 Listening to Your Body's Signals

01:22:15 Adjusting Energy to Meet the Other Person

01:23:13 Genuine Connection vs. Manipulation

01:25:20 Developing Awareness and Adaptability

01:27:30 Understanding Archetypes in Communication

01:32:17 Understanding Archetypes

01:35:02 Exploring Personal Archetypes

01:37:31 The Importance of Self-Awareness

01:39:42 Adapting Your Approach for Authenticity

01:41:03 Authenticity in Interpersonal Interactions

01:45:02 Finding and Accessing Your Authentic Voice

01:46:29 Approaching with Innocent Curiosity

01:48:07 Letting Go of Pressure and Expectations

Today we are joined by Matt Ng. Matt is an approach coach here in Austin, TX. You can find out more about Matt at @mattapproachcoach on Instagram.

In this podcast episode, we explore various facets of dating and personal growth, focusing on the concept of the 'nice guy syndrome' and its impact. We discuss how being overly accommodating and passive, often seen as 'nice guy' behavior, stems from insecurities and a lack of self-worth.

The conversation also covers the need to embrace more assertive masculine qualities and the importance of facing fears like rejection to foster individual growth.

We delve into the societal and cultural influences that shape the 'nice guy' persona, discussing the need for redefining masculinity and the importance of education in this area. Our discussion extends to the significance of stepping out of comfort zones, not only in personal development but also in innovating and trying new things.

Approaching women, a key topic, is examined through the effectiveness of both direct and indirect openers, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and forming emotional connections beyond surface-level topics. We highlight the role of pursuing passions to enrich conversations and build meaningful connections.

Additionally, we discuss the journey of self-discovery in dating, focusing on addressing limiting beliefs and the value of trauma healing to enhance confidence and happiness. The role of mentors in navigating these emotional challenges is also touched upon.

Finally, we stress that everyone's journey is unique, and comparing oneself to others is counterproductive. The overarching theme is the importance of authenticity, emotional intelligence, and the continuous effort to understand and connect with others in dating and relationships.

Hey all. The audio on this episode is a little rough but there's lots of good stuff regardless. Listen through to the end!

In this episode we cover various topics related to dating and meeting new people, discussing the challenges of gaining attention and the importance of authenticity. We debate the fine line between oversharing and being too reserved. Our conversation also touches on maintaining an abundance mindset and accepting one's current state in the dating journey. We share advice on approaching women and emphasize the importance of vulnerability in building connections.

We conclude by recounting a recent experience at a meat market where the nervousness of approaching two women together was palpable. We also delve into the concept of cold approaching, the complexities of gauging interest in such situations, and the pitfalls of inorganic interactions. We stress the importance of finding someone who appreciates the approach process.

The episode wraps up with our commitment to a daily practice of approaching one new person in a non-romantic way to enhance our social skills, reflecting our continuous efforts to improve and adapt in the realm of social interactions and dating.

This episode we are joined by Dalton Daniel, a podcaster and good friend of ours. You can find 'Don't think. Breathe' on major podcasting platforms and on Instagram @donthink.breath.

In our conversation, we discuss approaching women in public, emphasizing understanding their interest and mindset. We cover the importance of genuine interest versus neediness, sharing insights from personal experiences to highlight respect and intention. We also stress appreciating every woman's beauty genuinely and approaching with authenticity.

We explore dealing with rejection, emphasizing genuineness, understanding rejection's impact, and resilience strategies. We highlight the role of positive mindset, support from friends or coaches, and the importance of detachment and mindfulness in facing rejection.

Furthermore, we talk about authentic self-expression, approaching interactions with kindness, and using voice messages for clearer communication. We stress facing the fear of rejection positively and the importance of embracing uniqueness.

We also touch on the challenges and insights from using dating apps, including dealing with ghosting and the cultural impacts of online dating. We underline the necessity of intentionality in dating and the value of relationships in enriching life, reminding listeners that there's no perfect time to start dating.

00:00 Introduction

02:03 The Problem with Neediness

06:58 The Fine Line Between Attraction and Neediness

10:56 Approaching Women in Public

20:35 Finding Beauty in Every Woman

21:49 The Whole Foods Story

22:35 Overcoming Rejection and Staying Positive

24:41 Preparing Mentally for Approaching

29:53 Visualizing Different Outcomes

33:08 The Value of Visualizing Every Outcome

34:18 Practicing Mindfulness in Emotionally Charged Moments

34:28 Being the Narrator of Your Life

35:17 Detaching Emotions from Thoughts

36:25 Taking Control of Your Own Stories

37:05 Breathing Out Emotions

38:23 The Importance of Support

39:21 Approaching Alone vs. in a Group

40:21 Reactions to Approaching

41:28 Not Caring What Others Think

42:37 You Are What You Love

44:14 Approaching Without Setting Yourself Up for Rejection

47:13 Claiming Your Identity as a Approacher

49:22 Overcoming Anxiety in Approaching

52:06 The Importance of Genuine Kindness in Approaching

54:00 Expressing Interest and Giving Compliments

55:14 Overcoming Insecurities and Fear of Rejection

56:11 Taking Ownership of Feelings

57:07 Imagining Success and Failure

57:51 The Power of Voice Messages58:08Experiences with Dating Apps

59:13 Using Dating Apps with Intention

01:00:22 The Downside of Dating Apps

01:02:10 The Benefits of Voice Messages

01:04:32 Mixed Experiences with Dating Apps

01:05:31 The Evolution of Dating Apps

01:07:18 Avoiding Overstimulation and Entertainment

01:08:19 The Impact of Porn and Instagram

01:11:28 The Impact of Limiting Consumption

01:12:28 Struggles of Being an Entrepreneur

01:13:13 Thinking Differently About Dating

01:14:25 The Feeling of Nothing to Lose

01:15:31 The Importance of Women in Our Lives

01:17:58 Recognizing Insecurities and Making Excuses

01:18:34 Owning Your Circumstances

01:19:09 Withholding Insecurities and Expressing Self-Awareness

01:20:09 The Impact of Insecurity on Dating

01:21:06 Building a Relationship with Yourself

01:22:34 Recognizing and Addressing Validation Seeking Behavior

01:23:35 Being Your Own Advertising

01:23:53 Finding Purpose and Value in Yourself

01:24:52 Closing Remarks

Where to find Dalton:

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/59wfzg0oeASIhceU0FenXR

Instagram - @donthink.breathe