Dating with Intention: Becoming the Partner You Seek
Episode Summary:
In this lively and insightful conversation, co-hosts (and Zessio Co-Founders) Mandi Roarke, LMFT, and Dr. Sapna Srivastava welcome special guest Dr. Sarah Kyle—licensed therapist, dating coach, and co-host of the podcast Dateable AF. Together, they dive into the complexities of dating with intention, building self-awareness, and becoming "relationship ready."
Drawing from both clinical expertise and real-life experiences, they explore how internal work, nervous system awareness, character discernment, and authentic communication can all shape healthier dating experiences—and ultimately lead to more fulfilling relationships.
Key Topics Discussed:
- What it means to "date with intention"
- How to become the partner you’re seeking
- Decoding nervous system cues: butterflies, anxiety, and green flags
- The difference between chemistry and character
- The myth of the "perfect partner" and avoiding settling out of fatigue
- Redefining your dating "list": what’s truly a dealbreaker vs. a preference
- Recognizing limerence (infatuation) vs. sustainable love
- Building self-trust after heartbreak or bad relationships
- The power of maintaining friendship and kindness in long-term relationships
- Why growth is a lifelong, spiraling process—not a final destination
- Actionable ways to "do the work" outside of therapy
- Why being your authentic self is the ultimate dating strategy
Resources Mentioned:
- Book: You Are the One You’ve Been Waiting For by Dr. Richard Schwartz (IFS founder)
- Book: Mating in Captivity by Esther Perel
- Book: Wired for Dating by Stan Tatkin
- Concepts: Spiral staircase of growth, sound relationship house by John Gottman, the importance of kindness and generosity in maintaining connection
Guest Links:
- Website: www.sarahkyle.com
- Podcast: Dateable AF (available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more)
- Dateability Assessment & Resources: getdateable.com
Connect with Zessio:
- Instagram: @myzessio
- Website & Resources: zessio.com
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