Girls and the City

Twenty-something girls: friend… or foe?In this conversation, we discuss girls in their 20s versus 30s and dating guys who are good on paper. Join us as we explore the pitfalls of focusing solely on resumes and financial success in relationships and dive into the importance of genuine connections and friendships over superficial checkboxes, as such approaches may lead to short-lived partnerships.

This week, we address a simple but important question: How do you know if you are good in bed?In this episode, we dive deeper into relationships, boundaries, and self-worth. We explore Carrie’s search for validation (according to Zuzana), how crucial it is to stick to your boundaries, and the impact of compulsive habits on the way we experience love. We wrap it up by discussing what actually means to be “good in bed”, why it’s subjective, why it’s not a performance, and how communication is ultimately everything in intimacy.

When you date someone, how many people become emotionally involved? When you sleep with someone, are you screwing the family?In this episode, we explore the themes of anxiety, relationships, and family dynamics. Explore the complexities of dating men with baggage, and the impact of family expectations on relationships. The conversation explores how family dynamics can impact romantic relationships and the importance of navigating these challenges. Chapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Struggles with Anxiety02:36 Exploring the Episode: The Shortcomings05:25 Dating Men with Baggage: Perspectives on Relationships07:55 Family Dynamics and Their Impact on Relationships10:29 Navigating Intimacy and Emotional Connections13:15 The Role of Family in Shaping Relationships15:56 Reflections on Personal Experiences with Family Dynamics28:15 Navigating Relationship Dynamics29:44 The Impact of Family Relationships32:16 Maintaining Connections Post-Breakup34:24 Dealing with Family Manipulation37:04 The Role of Professional Help41:22 Introducing Partners to Family45:29 Exploring Sexual Dynamics48:33 The Complexity of Family Involvement

Are we dating the same person over and over again?In this episode, we get real about our dating patterns and the messy in-between. We talk about the whole “roster” culture, friends-with-benefits situations, and how our childhood and past relationships shape the way we show up now. Following the next Sex and the City episode on our list, “The Fuck Buddy,” we unpack when “casual” dating and hookups are okay, when they’re not, and why the real problem usually isn’t “casual”... it’s us.Chapters00:00 Intro and Life Updates08:35 The Episode's Summary18:18 Double-booking and the Roaster Concept in Dating26:09 The Roster: Pros and Cons29:16 Friends with Benefits33:25 Recognising and Breaking Dating Patterns44:12 Answering the Episode's Question 47:38 Outro

Do you have to play games to make a relationship work?In this episode, we dig deeper into a conversation about therapy, its stigma, as we explore the concept of games in relationships, questioning whether they are necessary. Join us as the discussion delves into the dynamics of love bombing, emotional availability, and the importance of communication and vulnerability in fostering healthy relationships.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates12:49 Exploring Therapy and Relationships17:49 The Role of Games in Relationships24:32 The Rise of AI in Therapy30:00 Navigating Emotional Connections in the Digital Age41:51 Understanding Relationship Games and Dynamics48:19 The Game of Flirting52:45 Navigating Love Bombing and Emotional Availability55:22 The Importance of Readiness in Relationships56:47 The Dangers of Playing Games in Relationships01:01:24 Friendship vs. Romantic Feelings: The Waiting Game01:06:54 Winners and Losers in Relationship Dynamics

As Carrie once said, the most exciting thing about love can be its exquisite pain. But how much pain is too much?In this episode, we dive into the messy side of modern romance, emotional masochism, fetishes, and the lengths we go for love. Carrie spirals back into her obsession with Big (again), Charlotte channels her passion into shoes, and Miranda endures some painfully public PDA.From obsessions and attachment styles to post-pandemic intimacy, we explore the thin line between a playful fetish and a flashing red flag. The big question: when does desire turn into self-sabotage? And when is enough finally enough?

Are we evolving past relationships?Explore the evolution of relationships as we discuss the importance of seeking substance over appearance, personal experiences, and the dynamics of masculinity and femininity in modern relationships. Dive deep into unpacking topics around reproductive health, societal expectations, and the emotional complexities of dating, ultimately concluding that while relationships have evolved, the intrinsic human need for connection remains unchanged.00:00 The Art of Compliments and Cultural Nuances01:03 Seeking Substance Over Appearance03:55 Navigating Personal Experiences and Social Interactions04:46 Exploring Relationships and Emotional Intimacy05:40 The Evolution of Characters in Relationships08:04 The Role of Gender and Companionship10:06 Biological Needs vs. Emotional Wants12:48 Masculinity, Femininity, and Modern Relationships15:09 The Balance of Emotional Intelligence in Relationships23:35 The Emotional Spectrum in Relationships26:19 Navigating Vulnerability and Emotional Availability28:18 The Dynamics of Leaving Personal Items in Relationships34:12 Samantha's Evolution and Emotional Depth39:01 Miranda's Struggles with Reproductive Choices43:40 The Importance of Reproductive Health Awareness48:00 Conclusions on Relationship Evolution

We’re digging into the messy reality of love, money, and power, because yeah...relationships aren’t just about feelings, they’re about who holds the cards. Why is it so damn hard for us women (and men!) to own our success without guilt? How does money really change people? And how does a “caste system” play a role in dating? We’re also breaking down the awkward “I love you” power plays and whether it is the ultimate relationship test.

Can you change a man?Navigate the intricate dance of love as we explore how grief, change, and communication reshape our more personal bonds. Join us to uncover how setting boundaries, understanding personal routines, and embracing evolving expectations are key to a lasting relationship.Chapters00:00 Navigating Grief and Relationships00:05 Cultural Reflections and Humor02:07 Summarizing Life Updates04:55 Concert Experiences and Fan Culture07:13 Urban Safety and Work Experiences09:55 Relationships and Personal Growth15:08 Can You Change a Partner?34:08 Balancing Routines in Relationships36:54 The Evolution of Relationships40:04 Communication Styles in Relationships43:39 Navigating Different Lifestyles45:35 Cuddling and Relationship Dynamics52:13 Can You Change a Man?59:46 Understanding Emotional Intelligence in Relationships

Are we willing to believe anything to date?Still believing in relationship myths ? Join us as we unravel the complexities of cliche love myths, while navigating friendships and age gaps to uncovering the surprising truths about emotional connections and self-discovery.

On a date… and makes out with another woman?Cheating or just how dating works now?In this episode, we dig into what actually counts as cheating today. Not just the obvious ones, but the quieter betrayals too: the lies you tell your friends, your family, even yourself. We talk about why going back to a toxic ex is (still) a bad idea, and why it doesn’t matter if you're gay or straight, the principle holds - you can’t cheat your way in and expect to stay friends with the dating pool.

Join us as we explore the complexities of relationships, emotional health, and personal growth. Reflect on Miranda's struggles with success and loneliness, Charlotte's romantic misadventures, and Carrie and Big's rekindled connection, ultimately emphasizing the importance of relationships in our lives.

Is it better to fake it than be alone?This week, we dive into the insecurities that come with not being in a relationship (especially after a confidence-crushing breakup). From getting stood up to overthinking our own desirability and debating if being in an okay relationship is better than none at all, we’re asking the hard but important questions. We also get into why female pleasure still feels like uncharted territory for most men and why your strongest love story might just be with yourself and your girls!

Join us as we navigate the modern dating scene, from decoding dating app dilemmas to questioning why 30-something singles are sometimes labeled "freaks." We also tackle everything from societal beauty standards to the age-old debate of genuine connection versus algorithmic matches.00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview02:57 Life Updates and Personal Experiences06:00 Dating Experiences and Challenges10:59 Episode Discussion: The Freak Show17:54 Dating Standards and Ageism24:00 Conclusion and Reflections on Dating24:58 The Impact of Dating Apps on Relationships27:45 The Shift from Human Connection to Algorithms30:31 Exploring Alternative Ways to Meet People32:02 Perceptions of Single Men Over 3036:38 Understanding the Concept of 'Freaks' in Dating44:19 The Influence of Friends on Personal Identity49:13 Navigating Physical Attraction and Relationship Depth50:19 Navigating Attraction and Compatibility51:09 Beauty Standards and Self-Perception52:51 The Impact of Aesthetic Medicine54:38 Empowerment in Natural Looks vs. Cosmetic Enhancements56:43 The Shallow Nature of Beauty Standards58:54 Confidence and Energy in Attractiveness01:00:09 Freakish Moments in Dating01:02:56 The Role of Self-Awareness in Relationships01:06:45 The Humor in Dating Experiences01:11:57 Finding Love in Unlikely Places

Are there some things that are better unsaid?In this episode, we dive into the messiness of honesty in relationships. We get into the awkwardness of dirty talk, unsolicited period predictions, and whether telling your partner about a harmless crush is respectful or reckless. One of us leans toward radical transparency, the other prefers selective silence. The bottom line? Honesty isn’t one-size-fits-all—it's about navigating the nuances that shape trust and connection.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Life Updates11:06 Episode Overview20:35 Navigating Relationship Advice28:10 The Impact of Age on Relationships35:42 Dirty Talks 41:00 (Un)Spoken Topics in Relationships47:43 Talking about Exes50:47 Navigating Crushes and Emotional Transparency59:35 Navigating Post-Breakup Interactions and Friendship1:05:14 Vague Gestures and Assumptions1:07:30 Reflecting on the Episode Question1:10:54 Organising Dating Life Like a Project1:14:01 Ghosting and Communication in Modern Dating1:18:53 Closing

What are the break-up rules? Join us with our special guest as we navigate the complexities of breakups, particularly during Valentine's week, and explore the unique challenges of dating in big cities, while we reflect on established "rules" for breakups. The discussion also touches upon potential differences in how men and women process emotions and approach trust in relationships. Furthermore, the cultural influence of media on our understanding of love and friendship is considered.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction07:05 Valentine's Week and Breakup Discussions11:57 Breakup Rules and Perspectives16:48 Comforting Friends During Breakups21:00 Bumping Into Exes and Relationship Dynamics31:08 Dating in Big Cities and Relationship Expectations37:50 The Importance of Debriefing41:22 Navigating Breakups: Strategies and Perspectives48:53 Breakup Rules: What Works and What Doesn't56:00 Trust and Relationships: Different Approaches01:10:09 Cultural Reflections: Media and Its Impact on Relationships

Are relationships the religion of the nineties?Catch up with us and delve into the complexities of relationships, exploring themes of emotional intimacy, religion, societal expectations, and the significance of family dynamics. We ponder if there is tension between personal desires and familial rituals? There is surely an evolving nature of relationships as a form of modern religion, and the challenges of meeting parents in romantic contexts.

How often is normal?Sorry we ask, but doesn’t everyone want to know? Those who are in a dry spell are particularly curious, and then there are those who simply can’t get enough. We also cover bedroom etiquette because we all have fun stories of how we let something slip.

As I watched Laney tear open a terry cloth baby bib with the same enthusiasm she once reserved for tearing off rock stars’ pants, I couldn’t help but wonder, was I next?This time we discuss the topic that has been on every woman’s mind at least once in their lives, motherhood. Some consider it to be their ultimate divine calling and others don’t want to be anywhere near a child. But it’s more than that as it is something that has a widespread impact on a woman’s life.

In a city of great expectations, is it time to settle for what you can get?We live in a world of an overwhelming amount of options, making dating exhausting. In this episode, we discuss if it’s better to simply settle for someone who loves you more than you love them.

“Were threesomes the new sexual frontier?”According to Carrie, everything seemed to come in threes: first class, business class, and economy or full fat, low fat, and skimmed. Is the saying "good things come in threes" applicable to relationships? Join us as we try to figure out if this notion still holds up and if we are getting it totally wrong with monogamy.

“In a city like New York, with its infinite possibilities, has monogamy too much to expect?”We are coming in with another portion of hot takes. But this time are talking about being exclusive and if we are in a world where situationships are the norm and exclusivity has become a cumbersome investment. And on the other hand, we discuss what we are willing to give and get in return.

“How many of us out there are having great sex with people we’re ashamed to introduce to our friends?” Some of us have feelings for people we are ashamed to be seen in public with or introduce to our friends. But it so happens that secret relationships sometimes offer a deeper kind of intimacy because they are so hidden and sheltered from the rest of the world.

“Where’s the line between the professional girlfriend and just plain professional?” Buckle up because this is a spicy one. We talk about the different powers people use to get what they want and of course, we touch upon the power of money and the power of sex and the occasional relationship between the two.

“Are men in their twenties the new designer drug?” Join us in trying to understand when it’s right to date someone your age, older, or younger than yourself. As we shadow the SATC characters through their romantic adventures, we explore the different roles one might take depending on the age difference in either direction between them and their partners.

“Is there a secret cold war between singles and marrieds?” What’s the deal with married friends? This time around we discuss if you’re better off being single or settled down and married. Are there advantages or disadvantages in the corporate world if you are in a settled relationship? (00:00) Intro & our usual catch up  (01:10) Intro to “the Bay of Married Pigs” (04:50) Is there a secret cold war between singles and marrieds? (07:37) Do we forget who we are when in a relationship? (10:00) Are you a child bride if you are getting married in your 20s?  (13:30) Married friends have FOMO  (14:40) Carrie dating the marrying kind of guy (16:10) Match making, is it still a thing? Dating apps? (18:45) What does Reddit have to say about divide between singles and their married friends? (21:10) Are married people threatened by singles because they are not secure in their marriage?  (23:30) Do people in relationships have an advantage in the corporate world?  (32:30) Lessons from Elizabeth Taylor regarding marriage  (36:30) Humans and their innate need for companionship  (38:00) Taking a trip together is one of the ultimate relationship tests  (41:40) Is it better to be single or married?  (45:25) Is this even a good conclusion? 

“If models could cause otherwise rational individuals to crumble their presence, exactly how powerful was beauty?” In this episode, we discuss the divide between models and mortals. As we explore this topic, we also take a closer look at whether our dating potential is capped by our own insecurities and whether beauty is all that matters to men. (00:00) We are back with a quick recap of our week (03:30) S1E2 SATC: Models & Mortals (05:13) How powerful is beauty? Isn't knowledge the true power? (11:08) Is having a type a thing? Should we stick to it? (15:25) Pretty privilege (17:45) I keep dating the same type of person. (20:10) Would you rather be beautiful or interesting? (23:10) Is our potential capped by our own (25:05) Proximity to beauty makes one more beautiful? (30:08) So what have you we learned? (33:00) Is beauty the only thing that matters?

"Are women giving up on love and throttling up on power?"We couldn't help but wonder if Sex and the City is still relevant in today's world so we started a podcast. Catch up with two close friends and we discuss our hot takes from the show and share bits from our own experience. (00:00:00) Introduction: Elizabeth & Zuzana(00:00:30) How come we started this podcast?(00:02:15) Caveat(00:02:32) The format of our podcast(00:03:35) S1E1 SATC(00:05:15) Love at first sight? Is that even real?(00:05:45) Love-bombing through generations(00:08:00) Creating your own closure(00:10:20) Should women have sex like men?(00:10:46) Getting to know the main characters(00:12:12) But where are all the great single men?(00:15:30) Are men threatened by independent women?(00:19:03) The mid-30s flip(00:24:46) Cam women have it all?(00:28:20) Are the 30s the new 20s but with money?(00:30:48) Would you go back to your old fling?(00:34:17) But what about the nice guy?(00:38:00) Can the person you are with bring out the worst in you?(00:40:05) Be a nice guy as long as you challenge me(00:54:40) So what have we learned?(01:01:25) Modern dating v. old-school romance. A matter of generations of a question of class?