In this episode of Man on the Mic, Jeffrey Mann sits down with his friend Olivia “Liv” Barnett, host of the Twenty Something podcast, for an honest, funny, and real conversation about dating, relationships, faith, and learning how to navigate life when it doesn’t go the way you planned. From Utah dating culture to awkward dates and “weirdos,” this one is equal parts meaningful and entertaining.

Liv opens up about seasons of feeling alone and what actually helped her climb out of it. She shares why vulnerability is harder than it looks, how leaning on family and friends can change everything, and what it means to stop pretending you’re fine when you’re not. If you’ve ever felt stuck in a hard chapter, this conversation will feel like a deep breath.

Jeffrey and Liv also talk faith and prayer, including how to build a relationship with God that isn’t only about asking for things. They explore the tension of wanting good desires like marriage and companionship, while still trusting God’s timing and staying steady when life doesn’t match your timeline.

They wrap with practical dating wisdom, from how to handle uncomfortable dates to what traits actually matter in a partner, plus Liv’s word for the year: brave. And the question that might shift your perspective completely: What would you attempt to do if you knew you could not fail? Follow Liv and listen to Twenty Something on all platforms, and if this episode helped you, share it with someone who needs it.

Chapters:

00:00 INTRO

05:08 Lowest Moment to Faith's Strength

06:57 "Prayer: Relationship, Not Requests"

10:25 Dating Expectations and Independence Tension

15:34 "Becoming Who You Want Attract"

17:04 Power in Speaking Desires

20:36 Dating with Kindness and Respect

26:09 "School, Success, and Choices"

28:14 "Thriving in Growth Zones"

31:37 Struggling with Vulnerability & Grief

33:15 Improving Communication and Growth

36:35 "Empowerment Through Life Struggles"