Ep. 29 - Dating with Intention: Becoming the Partner You Seek

Dating with Intention: Becoming the Partner You SeekEpisode 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 seekingDecoding nervous system cues: butterflies, anxiety, and green flagsThe difference between chemistry and characterThe myth of the "perfect partner" and avoiding settling out of fatigueRedefining your dating "list": what’s truly a dealbreaker vs. a preferenceRecognizing limerence (infatuation) vs. sustainable loveBuilding self-trust after heartbreak or bad relationshipsThe power of maintaining friendship and kindness in long-term relationshipsWhy growth is a lifelong, spiraling process—not a final destinationActionable ways to "do the work" outside of therapyWhy being your authentic self is the ultimate dating strategyResources Mentioned:Book: You Are the One You’ve Been Waiting For by Dr. Richard Schwartz (IFS founder)Book: Mating in Captivity by Esther PerelBook: Wired for Dating by Stan TatkinConcepts: Spiral staircase of growth, sound relationship house by John Gottman, the importance of kindness and generosity in maintaining connectionGuest Links:Website:  www.sarahkyle.comPodcast: Dateable AF (available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more)Dateability Assessment & Resources: getdateable.comConnect with Zessio:Instagram: @myzessioWebsite & Resources: zessio.comIf you enjoyed this episode:Please rate, review, and subscribe! Sharing helps more people find our content and supports us in continuing to create conversations that uplift, empower, and connect. Thank you for being part of the Zessions community!Support the showConnect with us on Instagram @myzessio or visit our website: https://www.zessio.com.Did you find this information helpful? Support our work here:  https://www.buzzsprout.com/2177169/support