#26 - Cory Smith on dating in the gay community, consent, clear communication

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