The Date with Confidence Podcast

After my last break up, I chose not to have sex for over four years.

During that time, feelings of embarrassment and shame for going so long without came up and I was also faced with many new fears: what if no one found me attractive ever again?

What if no one wanted to have sex with me?

What if someone new didn’t like my body?

What if I’ve forgotten how to have sex and perform badly for someone new?

In this episode of The Date with Confidence Podcast, I share the practical strategies I used to help me increase my sexual confidence again so that when the time came for me to jump into bed with someone new, not only would I feel ready for it, but I’d feel my most sexually empowered, most sexually confident self. 

If you’re feeling nervous about having sex with someone new, this episode’s for you.

Here’s a peek at what we cover: 

1. Facing Post-Breakup Insecurities: I discuss the challenges and self-doubt that can arise after a significant relationship ends, leading to a hiatus from sexual encounters

2. The Importance of Sexual Confidence: I emphasise the significance of feeling confident in your own skin and explore the impact of self-assurance on the overall experience of sex

3. Three Layers of Confidence: Introducing The 90/90 Mindset Concept, I break down the three layers of confidence you need to master, focusing on how these layers apply to sexual confidence

4. Positive Self-Talk: I share my simple strategy for shifting negative thoughts to positive beliefs, encouraging excitement and anticipation for future sexual experiences

5. Acting Confident: We look at practical tips including investing in attractive underwear, using perfume, and maintaining good self care habits to feel sexy and confident, even when not in a relationship

6. Conjuring Up Confidence: I reveal the enjoyable exercise you can use to conjure up feelings of confidence in your body within minutes so that when the time comes for sex with someone new, your body’s used to these feelings

7. Self-Fulfilment: As an advocate for fulfilling your own sexual needs, we talk about building an intimate connection with yourself to enhance confidence and enjoyment during partnered experiences

8. Building Trust: While discussing trust in the context of sexual encounters, I’m encouraging you to trust your instincts and communicate openly with your partner(s)

Throughout the episode, I touch on the importance of detachment, honesty and self-awareness when re-entering the dating and sexual scene, offering a relatable and empowering perspective on embracing your sexuality.

Check out The Confidence Course for more practical tools to increase your self confidence - sexual and otherwise.

Episodes mentioned:

This Simple Concept Will Help You Date with Confidence

I Know What I Deserve Now

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When’s the right time to discuss your kinks with someone you’re dating?

Did she know who I was when she messaged me?

And what should I do if my ex friend’s ex boyfriend swipes right on me?

This episode of The Date with Confidence Podcast is dedicated to you, your questions and your dating stories. I’m sharing my advice and also discussing why having a unique fetish is nothing to be ashamed of.

Here’s a glimpse at what we cover:

1. Community Episode Kickoff: Every second Thursday of the month is now dedicated to YOU. Your questions and stories are at the heart of these community episodes, making it an engaging space for everyone.

2. Navigating Fetishes in Dating: A listener bravely shares concerns about having a particularly niche fetish and seeks advice on when and how to discuss it with potential partners. I emphasise the importance of confidence and open communication when dating and share two different approaches to broaching the topic.

3. Confusing Dating Scenario: We unpack a question left on The Date with Confidence Podcast YouTube channel and try to solve the mystery of what the listener should do next.

4. Dating App Dilemma: Would you match with an ex friend’s ex boyfriend? I’m sharing how I reacted in this situation and what I’d recommend doing if you find yourself in the same one. 

5. Hilarious Dating Escape: A lighthearted dating story is shared, recounting the amusing experience of running away from a date who expected a kiss. We all know how much I relate to this one! 

Thank you to everyone who contributed to this episode and remember, your dating experiences and questions are valued here. If you want to be part of the next community episode, visit https://datewithconfidencepodcast.com/contribute.

Until next time, happy dating!

Episodes mentioned:

The Near Perfect Date That Became a Hilarious Nightmare

Get Involved!

You can contribute your stories to the Date with Confidence Podcast here. Share your best or worst dating stories, your biggest icks, dating tips you think everyone should know or ask me anything about my dating life or a burning question you need an answer for.  

Resources

• The Breakup Bounce Back
• The Confidence Kit
• The Confidence Course

Visit The Date with Confidence website here. Subscribe to our YouTube channel.

Follow The Date with Confidence Podcast on Instagram + follow your host Rebecca Hawkes here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you’re sick of being single or trying to manifest ‘The One’ as fast as you possibly can, Valentine’s Day can bring up some negative feelings.

Whether you’re embracing your single era or you’re actively hunting for your dream relationship, join me in this episode of The Date With Confidence Podcast where we're tackling a timely topic—how to enjoy Valentine's Day when you're flying solo.

While the day may trigger feelings for some, I’m here to shift the narrative and make it a celebration of self-love and empowerment.

Here are the key topics covered:

1. Navigating Valentine's Day Solo: Acknowledge that Valentine's Day might stir emotions, especially if you're actively manifesting your ideal relationship.

2. Digital Detox: Discover the simple step to take control of your emotional well-being. Remove potential triggers in advance and keep your mindset in a positive, empowered state.

3. Plan a Fun Activity: Break the pattern of feeling left out and create a positive experience for yourself by planning a date night with yourself, your friends or your family.

4. Cosy Night In: If socialising isn't your vibe, organise a cosy night in for one with a special meal, candles, and self-pampering. Embrace being your best date.

5. Act As If: Incorporate this potent manifestation practice to take your manifesting powers to a whole new level so that one day you can experience your perfect Valentine’s Day with your dream partner. Raise your vibration and reinforce your belief in attracting the ideal relationship.

6. Celebrate Yourself: Transform Valentine's Day into a celebration of you with these tips for how to show yourself love on Valentine’s Day.

Remember, Valentine's Day is just another day. Loving yourself deeply is the key and whether in a relationship or single, you are worthy of the love you desire. Celebrate the amazing person you are this Valentine's Day and every day. Sending you love, and catch you in the next episode!

Content Mentioned:

How to Manifest ‘The One’: Do This Before Dating

Your Dream Relationship Exists: Here’s How to Believe In It

Date Yourself: How To Feel Confident Taking Yourself Out

Additional Valentine’s Content:

How To Survive Valentine's Day When You're Single (and Don't Want To Be)

What Does Self Love Mean And How To Love Yourself More

Get Involved!

You can contribute your stories to the Date with Confidence Podcast here. Share your best or worst dating stories, your biggest icks, dating tips you think everyone should know or ask me anything about my dating life or a burning question you need an answer for.  

Resources

• The Confidence Course

Visit The Date with Confidence website here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What you think, you believe and what you believe, becomes your reality.

And this is so important when it comes to dating.

If you enter the dating world with the belief that what you truly desire from a partner doesn't exist or isn't available to you, you’ll never find ‘The One’.

In this episode of The Date with Confidence Podcast, we delve into the power of belief, how it shapes your dating reality and the practical actions you can take to build solid belief in your dream relationship.

Here’s a glimpse at what we cover:

1. The Power of Belief: We explore how your beliefs shape your dating experiences and why it's crucial to build the belief that your dream relationship is possible.

2. Building and Holding Belief: Learn practical steps to build and maintain the belief in your dream relationship, preventing you from settling for less than you deserve.

3. Finding Evidence: Discover the importance of seeking evidence for your dream relationship's existence, drawing inspiration from real-life examples around you.

4. Mantras for Reprogramming: Understand the impact of the phrases you tell yourself and learn how to use empowering mantras to reshape your beliefs positively.

5. External Anchors: Explore the concept of anchoring your desire for a dream relationship to something greater than yourself, whether it's a family member, friend, or even a pet.

6. Valuable Self-Reflection: Reflect on your past relationships, identify patterns, and consciously commit to breaking free from unhealthy cycles for your own well-being.

Remember, what you believe becomes your reality. So, join me on this journey of transforming your beliefs and manifesting the dream relationship you deserve. If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review on iTunes, share with friends, and stay tuned for more empowering content.

Episodes Mentioned:

How to Manifest ‘The One’: Do This Before Dating

Interview with My Grandad: Dating Advice from an 81 Year Old

Get Involved!

You can contribute your stories to the Date with Confidence Podcast here. Share your best or worst dating stories, your biggest icks, dating tips you think everyone should know or ask me anything about my dating life or a burning question you need an answer for.  

Resources

• The Breakup Bounce Back
• The Confidence Kit
• The Confidence Course

Visit The Date with Confidence website here.

Follow The Date with Confidence Podcast on Instagram + follow your host Rebecca Hawkes here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are you ready to manifest love, romance and your dream relationship into your reality?

Join me in this episode of The Date with Confidence Podcast as we deep dive into the mental, practical and energetic manifestation practices for manifesting ‘the one’.

We explore the exact exercises I used before I started dating and the ones I use as I’m actively dating to manifest my dream partner. I’ve broken my process down into three sections to make it easier for you to implement these practices so you too can work to manifest the one into your life.

Here are the key topics covered:

1. Believing in the Dream: Dive into the crucial aspect of fostering belief in the possibility of your dream relationship

2. Embracing Trust: Despite past relationship hurdles, make a conscious choice to trust that the perfect person will appear in your life at the right moment

3. Clarity Unveiled: Explore the process of gaining clarity on your desires in a partner and understand why this clarity plays a pivotal role in manifesting The One

4. Elevating Standards: Learn strategies to avoid settling for a relationship that falls short of what you genuinely deserve

5. Crafting Your Wish Lists: Navigate the creation of two distinct wish lists, distinguishing between non-negotiable standards and flexible expectation

6. Manifesting with Letters and Boards: Uncover effective manifesting techniques, such as letter writing and vision boards, as powerful tools to attract the right person into your life

7. Active Manifestation: Recognise that manifestation involves more than just jotting down desires; actively engage in social activities and dating environments

8. Visualisation Mastery: Take your visualisation practice to a whole new level when you incorporate these tiny experiences into your daily vision

9. Feeling the Future: Shift your energy from a sense of lack to an abundance mindset by imagining and embodying the feelings you'd experience in your dream relationship

10. Gratitude in Solo Moments: While manifesting The One, find gratitude in your current solo journey

Remember, you are worthy of the love you seek—keep those standards high and trust in the unfolding of your romantic destiny.

Episodes Mentioned:

Mindset Shifts You Need to Make Around Dating

5 Powerful Types of Vision Board You Can Create

How to Cancel a Date with the ‘Nice One’

Disclaimer: these are practices I use myself and of course, they do not promise any results

Get Involved!

You can contribute your stories to the Date with Confidence Podcast here.

Resources

• The Confidence Course

Visit the website here.

Follow on Instagram.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are you ready to hear all the details about my first date of 2024? 

Because that's exactly what we're going to talk about in this episode of The Date with Confidence Podcast. From the nerves that crept in before the date to the (not so) unexpected turns, I’m sharing all the juicy details about my first date with someone I first met over 12 years ago….

Here are the key topics covered:

1. The Build-Up: I’m setting the stage, describing the anticipation and pressure of meeting someone I knew from over a decade ago. 

2. Overcoming Nerves: I’m detailing exactly what I did to ease the first date jitters and ensure I arrived at the date feeling confident and excited instead of anxious. 

3. Axe Throwing Adventure: He’d booked us an activity that I’d never done before – axe throwing. We spent the afternoon laughing, sharing stories and engaging in conversation that flowed naturally, even after a decade.

4. Thoughtful Gestures: Before we even met, he showed he was thoughtful, yet from the start of the date until we said goodbye, the thoughtful gestures kept on coming. 

5. Communication and Comfort: Discover what makes the communication so top notch and learn how he’s continually made me feel safe both via message and in person. 

6. Gentlemanly Acts: I detail the multitude of gentlemanly behaviours, from driving me home (over a two-hour round trip) to small acts of kindness, challenging the conventional dating experiences.

7. Bet You Didn’t See This Coming: I’m ending the episode with a surprising revelation….a revelation that makes me a massive hypocrite. And I’m not even sorry.

Episodes Mentioned:

Am I Delusional?! 

The Near Perfect Date That Became a Hilarious Nightmare

Sex on the Third Date?! Dating Rules You Need to Ditch

This Simple Concept Will Help You Date with Confidence

You're Allowed to Change Your Mind At ANY Point

Get Involved!

You can contribute your stories to the Date with Confidence Podcast here. Share your best or worst dating stories, your biggest icks, dating tips you think everyone should know or ask me anything about my dating life or a burning question you need an answer for.  

Resources

• The Confidence Kit
• The Confidence Course

Visit The Date with Confidence website.

Follow The Date with Confidence Podcast on Instagram. Follow your host here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's the start of a new year which means it's the start of a new dating season!

We've got a lot to catch up on in this episode of The Date with Confidence Podcast so grab yourself a cup of something (or a glass of something - no judgement from me) and get ready to hear a very brief overview of my dating life in 2023, my dating predictions for 2024 and all the goss on my very first date of the new year.....

Here's a glimpse at what we covered:

1. Reflecting on 2023: A quick recap of my dating life in 2023, including the number of dates, cancelled plans, dating app experiences, and where I made the most matches.

2. Changing Trends in Dating: My observations on the evolving dating landscape in 2024, with a focus on people seeking alternative, organic ways to connect outside traditional dating apps.

3. Embracing Bold Moves: I'm encouraging you to be brave and make the first move, just like my friend did....

4. Reconnecting with an Old Acquaintance: Brace yourself for the unexpected reconnection with someone from my past. I'm detailing how we met, reminiscing about old times and sharing how a catch up became my first date of 2024.

5. The Excitement and Anxieties of a First Date: As always, I'm being honest about my feelings ahead of this date. The biggest question: will the chemistry still be there?!

Episodes About Guys I Dated in 2023:

Am I Delusional?! Part 1 / Part 2

The Near Perfect Date That Became a Hilarious Nightmare

I Know What I Deserve Now

He Wanted Me to Send Photos & Lied About His Age

Get Involved!

You can contribute your stories to the Date with Confidence Podcast here. Share your best or worst dating stories, your biggest icks, dating tips you think everyone should know or ask me anything about my dating life or a burning question you need an answer for.  

Resources

• The Breakup Bounce Back
• Attract on the Apps
• The Confidence Kit
• The Confidence Course

Visit The Date with Confidence website here.

Follow The Date with Confidence Podcast on Instagram + follow your host Rebecca Hawkes here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You're allowed to change your mind at any point, especially and most importantly, when it comes to your body.

In this episode of The Date with Confidence Podcast, we dive into the topic of consent and why it's also ok for you to change your mind to a no, even after you've said yes.

Here's a sneak peek at what we cover:

1. Consent Matters: Highlighting the importance of consent and the discomfort around saying "no" in various situations.

2. Setting Boundaries: I'm sharing my experiences of setting boundaries, such as not kissing on the first date, and the importance of sticking to them.

3. Navigating Uncomfortable Conversations: We're exploring instances where uncomfortable conversations arise, like when explicit photos are requested, and how to assertively say "no."

4. Changing Your Mind: I emphasise that it's okay to change your mind at any point, illustrated through personal experiences of withdrawing consent during an intimate moment (and how a decent guy will actually respond to your no).

5. Handling Reactions: We discuss the challenging aspect of dealing with others' reactions to saying "no" and emphasising that you shouldn't feel responsible for managing someone else's response.

6. Consent is Attractive: We reflect on the attractiveness of consent, respect, and communication in dating scenarios, and the impact of these factors on feeling safe.

7. Standing Strong: I encourage you to stand by your decisions, say "no" when needed, and focus on self-care and mindset work to help you say no with confidence.

Remember, you're allowed to say "no" whenever, wherever, and however many times you need.

Episodes Mentioned:

Ted: I Know What I Deserve Now and This Is NOT It

Rob: He Wanted Me to Send Photos and Lied About His Age

Changed your mind? Listen to How to Cancel a Date with the 'Nice One'

Get Involved!

You can contribute your stories to the Date with Confidence Podcast here. Share your best or worst dating stories, your biggest icks, dating tips you think everyone should know or ask me anything about my dating life or a burning question you need an answer for.  

Resources

• The Breakup Bounce Back
• Attract on the Apps
• The Confidence Kit
• The Confidence Course

Visit The Date with Confidence website here.

Follow The Date with Confidence Podcast on Instagram + follow your host Rebecca Hawkes here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

EPISODE 25: I Ignored the Guy Who Cancelled Last Minute

You don't owe anyone a response. You don't owe anyone a response. If someone hasn’t treated you the way you deserve, you don’t owe them anything.

In this episode of The Date with Confidence Podcast, I'm talking about a recent (near) dating experience where I chose not to respond to a last-minute cancellation. I'm no longer available to not be respected by men. And I wanna encourage you to adopt this energy too.

Here are some of the key things we chat about:

1. You Don't Owe Anyone a Response: I'm emphasising the importance of understanding that you don't owe anyone a response, especially if they haven't treated you with the respect you deserve.

2. Respecting Your Boundaries: I'm encouraging you to set boundaries and not tolerate disrespectful behaviour, emphasising that it's okay to prioritise self-respect over responding to someone who cancels last minute.

3. Reflecting on Red Flags: I'm opening up about the red flags I'd seen before this guy cancelled the first date and how I believe I had a lucky escape in the end.

4. Dealing with Rejection: I touch on my own sensitivity to rejection and provide insight on how to handle rejection with resilience and self-compassion.

5. Empowering Yourself: I'm revealing the negative thoughts that flooded my brain when this incident happened and sharing how you can take charge of your inner narrative, practice self-awareness, and choose thoughts that empower and uplift you.

Remember, you have the power to shape your own narrative in the world of dating. Prioritise self-respect, set healthy boundaries, and choose thoughts that empower you. Subscribe, review, and share the podcast with your single friends for more dating insights.

Episodes mentioned:

How to Deal with Rejection When You're Dating

Get Involved!

You can contribute your stories to the Date with Confidence Podcast here. Share your best or worst dating stories, your biggest icks, dating tips you think everyone should know or ask me anything about my dating life or a burning question you need an answer for.  

Resources

• The Breakup Bounce Back
• Attract on the Apps
• The Confidence Kit
• The Confidence Course

Get weekly-ish updates, exclusive offers and access behind the scenes gossip when you become a podcast insider.

Visit The Date with Confidence website here.

Follow The Date with Confidence Podcast on Instagram + follow your host Rebecca Hawkes here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You’re a 10/10. You always have been, always will be.

And in this episode of The Date with Confidence Podcast, I’m sharing practical tips for how to feel like a 10/10 so you can date with confidence and stop settling for less than you deserve.

Here are the key topics covered:

1. The Barbie Movie Epiphany: Discussing the influence of a particular Barbie movie song lyric that sparked the realisation about the energy we need to be taking into our dating lives.

2. Overcoming Past Insecurities: Opening up about personal experiences and the lingering effects of being rated poorly in a previous relationship, urging you to break free from such negative mindsets.

3. Embracing the 10 out of 10 Mindset: Encouraging you to consciously adopt a mindset of self-worth, emphasising that everyone deserves to view themselves as a perfect 10, regardless of societal standards.

4. Authenticity and Confidence: Exploring practical ways to embody the 10 out of 10 energy, including positive affirmations, authentic self-expression, and acts of self-love.

5. Building Deeper Connections: Discussing the impact of approaching relationships with the confidence of being a perfect 10, fostering authenticity, and building genuine connections with others.

6. Self-Care Practices: Highlighting the importance of self-care, from physical well-being to mental health activities, reinforcing the idea that taking care of yourself contributes to the 10 out of 10 mindset.

7. Facing Negativity Head-On: Encouraging you to challenge negative thoughts and external judgments, and to confidently assert your self-worth in all aspects of life.

As the podcast concludes, I encourage you to radiate authenticity, embrace your uniqueness, and carry the empowering energy of being a 10 out of 10 into every relationship and situation you encounter in 2024 and beyond.

Get Involved!

You can contribute your stories to the Date with Confidence Podcast here. Share your best or worst dating stories, your biggest icks, dating tips you think everyone should know or ask me anything about my dating life or a burning question you need an answer for.  

Resources

• The Breakup Bounce Back
• Attract on the Apps
• The Confidence Kit
• The Confidence Course

Get weekly-ish updates, exclusive offers and access behind the scenes gossip when you become a podcast insider.

Visit The Date with Confidence website here.

Follow The Date with Confidence Podcast on Instagram + follow your host Rebecca Hawkes here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.