You may think you know what you want from your dating life, but – as Laura recently discovered – turns out love doesn’t follow a checklist. This is a story about what’s possible when you abandon superficial requirements and follow your heart instead.*

*PSA: Following your heart may require you to drive more than 30 minutes.

Everyone needs a dose of whirlwind romance once in awhile. And for Heather, Shawn the Smokeshow was just what the doctor ordered. With marathon dates, an open heart, and just a touch of wild - this match reminded Heather what it means to really want and be wanted by someone else. And, they had a whole lot of fun along the way. This week, we’re thirsty for open hearts, genuine connection, and what it means to put emotional skin in the game.

What do you get when you combine warm hugs, dogs of Instagram, and the worst vacation ever? Self-Absorbed Sam. Laura shares this story about a relationship that started off so strong, yet fell so far. So many times, we want things to be perfect, but at a certain point, we have to admit that a relationship needs more than fun dates and late nights out. In this Season 2 opener, Laura and Heather talk about empathy, connection, and knowing when to walk away.

When you’re hot off a divorce, you have a lot to learn about dating and relationships, as Laura soon found out. Felix was so nice, so sweet, but was also holding on to a few things he wasn’t ready to share. In this season 1 finale, Laura and Heather reflect on confronting your sh*t, choosing to be brave, and who “your person” really is.

One in awhile, the right person comes along at the right time. At rock bottom, Heather met someone that wasn’t at all what she expected, but turned out to be exactly what she needed. Despite a long distance, two very different lives, and inopportune timing - Ted became an example of what can happen when you throw out the checklists, and let the universe take control.

Once in awhile, you meet someone who reminds you who you are and what you really want out of your romantic relationships. And as Heather learned, some people are only in your life for a short time, yet they leave a lasting impact. Meet Paul the Peach, who only went out with Heather twice, yet changed Heather’s dating life for the better - in a very real way.

So you’ve downloaded a dating app. Now what? Laura and Heather share what they’ve learned, mistakes they’ve made, and best practices to not only match-but match well. And-you definitely won’t need a fish photo, partner in crime, or #grateful in your profile. IYKYK!

Have you ever met someone where there was a strong connection, but you just couldn’t get in sync? One day things seem great, but the next might be a rocky road. And, you never know where you stand. Rowdy Ryan was that person for Heather. In this relationship, hijinks, friendship, and chemistry were no match for what became known as “The Coconut Tree Incident.”

Have you ever met someone who made time stand still? Maybe you even swooned

a bit? Meet Nate, the date who changed everything. You might think dating

apps are the last place to find a meaningful connection, but apparently it

can happen - Nate and Laura are the proof. See? it’s not all dumpster fire

dating. The Real Thing is still out there.