The Dating Lab

Alyssa Dineen
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The Dating Lab is a podcast hosted by dating expert and profile stylist Alyssa Dineen, where modern dating gets a much-needed makeover. Through candid conversations with guests who’ve cracked the code, or are still figuring it out, Alyssa explores what it really takes to date with intention, clarity, and emotional safety. From profile rewrites to post-divorce success stories, The Dating Lab offers practical strategies, heartfelt stories, and a refreshing take on finding connection in today’s dating world.

  1. 22. APR.

    Episode 13: The Psychology of Attraction and Breaking Toxic Patterns with Dr. Jenn Kennedy

    In this insightful episode of The Dating Lab, Alyssa Dineen is joined by Dr. Jenn Kennedy, a clinical sexologist and licensed marriage and family therapist based in Santa Barbara. Together, they explore the psychological underpinnings of first impressions and how much of attraction is decided in those initial few seconds. Dr. Jenn breaks down the unconscious sorting our brains do and why what we say we want often differs from the patterns we actually pursue. The conversation delves into common dating traps, such as unconsciously seeking out partners similar to our exes to heal old wounds, and how to break the cycle by choosing healthier, if seemingly less "dramatic," dynamics. They also discuss the myth of "low desire" in midlife women, reframing it around the need for more satisfying and connected sexual experiences rather than just a biological deficit. Finally, Dr. Jenn shares actionable advice for sustaining long-term attraction through healthy interdependence. She introduces the concept of "sensate focus," explaining how slowing down physical touch and treating early intimacy as a mindfulness exercise can calm the nervous system, reduce performance anxiety, and create a deeper erotic connection. You'll also hear about:(01:55) What happens psychologically in the first few minutes of meeting someone and the unconscious sorting our brains perform.(05:45) Why textual banter and intellectual engagement can increase physical attraction before a face-to-face date.(09:02) The psychological reasons we unconsciously seek out the same toxic patterns and how to break the loop.(12:24) The "cat from the pound" analogy: Why replacing your ex with a similar model is a recipe for disaster.(13:44) Navigating the "limerence" phase and the milestones needed to truly know a partner beyond the initial chemical spark.(17:47) How maintaining individual silos and bringing rich experiences back to the partnership sustains long-term attraction.(20:16) The crucial difference between codependence and healthy interdependence in a relationship.(22:49) How dressing well and showing up thoughtfully signals your self-worth and impacts the partners you attract.(33:02) Debunking the myth of "low desire" in midlife women and the reality of their sexual needs.(38:38) Using the 1950s "sensate focus" protocol to slow down intimacy, reduce anxiety, and explore non-genital pleasure. Rate, Review & Follow The Dating LabListen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. If this episode resonated, please rate, review, and share - it helps more people discover the show. Learn More About Dr. Jenn KennedyVisit: The Pleasure Project at pleasureproject.usEmail: drjenkennedy@gmail.comFollow Dr. Jenn Kennedy: Find her on Instagram and YouTubeListen: Pleasure Project Sex and Relationships podcast Learn more about Alyssa Dineen:Visit Style My ProfileFollow Alyssa on InstagramFollow Alyssa on TikTok

    43 min.

  2. 1. APR.

    Episode 12: From Commitment Phobia to Happily Married: Natasha Chandel's Dating Evolution

    In this fun and refreshingly candid episode, Alyssa Dineen is joined by Natasha Chandel, an Indian-Canadian-American writer, actress, comedian, and the former host of the wildly popular Kinda Dating podcast. Natasha shares her personal evolution from a self-proclaimed "reformed commitment phobe" who kept partners at arm's length to a woman who happily navigated a pandemic-era romance that led to marriage. Alyssa and Natasha dive deep into the messy realities of modern dating, leaving no topic off the table. They discuss the psychology behind "the ick" (and why it's often just an excuse to end things), the double standards of commitment phobia, and why waiting an hour to text someone back is a power play we all need to outgrow. Natasha also opens up about her unique love story, locking down with a stranger she met on Hinge just days before the pandemic, and why she believes a prenuptial agreement is actually the most romantic thing a couple can do. This episode is packed with laugh-out-loud moments and hard truths about taking accountability, staying present, and not attaching your self-worth to early dating experiences. You'll also hear about:(01:50) Natasha’s journey from serial monogamist to a "reformed commitment phobe."(04:35) How starting the Kinda Dating podcast held Natasha accountable in her own love life.(08:00) Meeting her husband on Hinge and moving in together on their third date right before the COVID lockdown.(11:44) Why Natasha never wanted to get married, and how she ended up with the "dream Indian wedding she never wanted" in Spain.(15:23) The truth about "the ick": Is it a real red flag or just a convenient excuse to bail?(18:45) Why women are just as guilty of commitment phobia as men (and how to spot your own patterns).(22:29) Gender norms in early dating: Who should follow up, who should plan, and who should pay?(29:19) Why full transparency and a prenup can actually bring a couple closer together.(31:47) The one dating behavior Natasha would outlaw today: Playing the "waiting to text back" game.(34:22) Why getting ghosted says nothing about your self-worth. Rate, Review & Follow The Dating LabListen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. If this episode resonated, please rate, review, and share - it helps more people discover the show. Learn More About Natasha ChandelFollow Natasha on Instagram and Facebook: @NatashaChandelFollow Natasha on TikTok: @Natasha.ChandelListen: Check out the archives of the Kinda Dating podcast (300 episodes available!). Learn more about Alyssa Dineen:Visit Style My ProfileFollow Alyssa on InstagramFollow Alyssa on TikTok

    40 min.

  3. 18. MAR.

    Episode 11: From Serial Monogamy to Self-Love: Healing and Rebuilding After Divorce

    In this insightful episode, Alyssa Dineen sits down with Leah Mazur, a certified divorce recovery coach, founder of Mindfully Ready, and co-creator of The Next Chapter membership. Drawing from her own deeply personal journey through three marriages, Leah shares how she overcame her fear of being alone and stopped using serial monogamy as a "life raft." Leah offers a candid look at the mistakes she made jumping into relationships too quickly to numb her loneliness, and how doing the inner work completely transformed her approach to dating. She breaks down the critical difference between true compatibility and toxic chemistry, which often just mimics familiar childhood wounds, and explains why getting divorced means your dating standards should actually be higher, not lower. Alyssa and Leah also tackle the realities of modern dating for single moms, the unspoken necessity of financial independence, and the science that proves why the "staying for the kids" narrative is harmful. This conversation is packed with actionable advice on how to build a fulfilling life so that a partner becomes an addition to your happiness, rather than the source of it. You'll also hear about:(04:43) Leah’s wake-up call after her first two marriages and how she stopped making choices based on the fear of abandonment.(09:25) The crucial mindset shift: Going from "Am I good enough for him?" to "Does he add value to my life?"(11:12) How Leah's third marriage resulted in a peaceful uncoupling and a lifelong, stable stepdad for her daughter.(16:54) Why you must build a healthy relationship with yourself before you can model one for your children.(18:20) Unlearning the toxic relationship narratives fed to us by Romcoms and Disney.(20:47) The biggest post-divorce dating mistake: Dating just to numb the loneliness.(21:28) Chemistry vs. Compatibility: Why the "spark" might just be a familiar, toxic nervous system response.(27:05) The importance of financial stability so you don't choose a partner out of survival mode.(33:53) Debunking the "stay for the kids" myth and why a mother's happiness directly correlates with her children's well-being.(40:45) The Next Chapter membership: A resource hub for moms navigating high-conflict divorce and co-parenting. Rate, Review & Follow The Dating LabListen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. If this episode resonated, please rate, review, and share - it helps more people discover the show. Learn More About Leah Mazur:Visit: mindfullyready.comCheck out: The Next Chapter MembershipFollow Leah on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube: @MindfullyReady Learn more about Alyssa Dineen:Visit Style My ProfileFollow Alyssa on InstagramFollow Alyssa on TikTok

    41 min.

  4. 4. MAR.

    Episode 10: Momentum Before Motivation: Carly Fauth’s Unstoppable 15-Minute Method

    Episode SummaryIn this incredibly inspiring episode, Alyssa Dineen sits down with Carly Fauth, a fitness instructor, certified cancer exercise specialist, movement mentor, and the founder of Fit in Fitness. Carly shares her powerful story of being diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer in February 2024 and how she used movement to take her power back. Carly discusses her remarkable journey of launching a podcast (originally called "Chemo Coffee Talk") straight from her infusion chair at Dana Farber to help others feel less scared. She also reveals how she maintained her commitment to exercising and teaching every single day of her chemo treatment—and even completed a triathlon just two weeks after her final session. Alyssa and Carly explore the philosophy behind the "15-Minute Method," emphasizing that you have to build momentum before you feel motivation. They also draw striking parallels between building a fitness routine and modern dating, noting that "dabbling" doesn't work and consistency is the ultimate key to success. Finally, Carly breaks down why women in perimenopause and menopause should prioritize heavy strength training and shorter, sprint-interval cardio over long, exhausting workouts. You'll also hear about:(01:50) Launching the "Chemo Coffee Talk" podcast from the infusion chair.(07:18) The birth of the 15-Minute Method and why 15 minutes is a "magic number" your brain can easily wrap around.(09:50) Committing to fitness through breast cancer treatment and completing a triathlon two weeks after chemo.(12:20) Using fitness as a training ground for life's hardest hurdles and the meaning behind her book title, Pray for the Bear.(14:21) How just a few minutes of movement or stretching ("motion is lotion") can completely shift your mood.(15:40) The striking parallels between fitness routines and dating: why you need to enjoy the process, not just the end result.(20:02) Trading negative habits for the positive "euphoria" and dopamine hit of movement.(24:38) Why perimenopause and menopause require shorter intense workouts (like SIT) rather than 45-minute exhaustion sessions.(25:15) The ideal midlife fitness balance: lifting heavy weights and getting 150 minutes of cardio.(29:10) The 6-week 15-Minute Club, focusing heavily on mindset to build lasting consistency. Rate, Review & Follow The Dating LabListen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. If this episode resonated, please rate, review, and share - it helps more people discover the show. Learn More About Carly Fauth:Visit Fit in Fitness Listen to Fit in Fitness Podcast Follow Carly on InstagramWatch a TV interview of Carly Fauth Learn more about Alyssa Dineen:Visit Style My ProfileFollow Alyssa on InstagramFollow Alyssa on TikTok

    39 min.

  5. 19. FEB.

    Episode 9: Reverse Your Biological Age: Robert Brace on Longevity and Midlife Fitness

    In this energizing episode, Alyssa Dineen sits down with celebrity wellness expert, motivational speaker, and "Mind-Body-Soul Connector" Robert Brace to discuss the transformative power of movement on our mental health and self-esteem. Robert shares his philosophy on why fitness isn't just about aesthetic changes, but about regulating the nervous system and building a deep sense of trust in oneself through consistency. They dive into the science of how movement produces serotonin, endorphins, and oxytocin to create joy, calm, and connection. Alyssa and Robert also tackle common midlife myths, like the fear of "bulking up" from lifting weights or the belief that "those days are over", and reveal how strength training can actually reverse biological age and improve longevity. Whether you have 10 minutes or an hour, this conversation offers practical advice for anyone looking to reclaim their confidence and feel at home in their body again. You'll also hear about:(01:27) The "Confidence After Movement" theory: How exercise produces joy, calm, and bliss(04:20) Why 20 minutes of intensity is the magic number for the "runner's high" and endocannabinoid release(07:04) How consistency builds self-trust and self-esteem(08:48) The danger of being "outcome-oriented" in both fitness and dating(10:45) The ROI of movement: Yoga, breathing, and lifting weights in 10-minute bursts(12:43) Why lifting heavy weights is crucial for women in midlife (and won't make you bulky!)(16:45) Overcoming the "Those Days Are Over" mindset and reclaiming your vitality(19:41) Reversing biological age: How clients are clocking in 15 years younger than their chronological age(26:35) How to stay motivated when you don't see immediate results(28:42) "Motion is Lotion": Navigating setbacks, surgery, and the importance of just keeping moving Rate, Review & Follow The Dating LabListen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. If this episode resonated, please rate, review, and share - it helps more people discover the show. Learn More About Robert Brace:Visit Brace Life StudiosFollow Robert on Instagram Learn more about Alyssa Dineen:Visit Style My ProfileFollow Alyssa on InstagramFollow Alyssa on TikTok

    31 min.

  6. 4. FEB.

    Episode 8: Is Chemistry Real? Redefining Intimacy and Sexual Connection in Midlife

    In this enlightening episode, Alyssa Dineen is joined by Dr. Saida and Aaron Michael, the founders of Embodied Love University and experts in the science of intimacy. Together, they dismantle the common myths surrounding sexual chemistry and "the spark," especially as it pertains to midlife dating. Dr. Saida and Aaron share their decades of experience helping individuals and couples move beyond teenage fantasies of "instant" chemistry to build a more intentional, lasting magnetism. They explore the biological and hormonal factors that influence attraction, including how ovulation impacts receptivity, and discuss why a "peak experience" at the start of a relationship isn't always a sign of long-term compatibility. This conversation is a deep dive into how we can all live in a more connected way by understanding the difference between a fleeting hormonal rush and a deeply built charge. Alyssa and her guests also tackle sensitive topics like libido during menopause, the psychology behind erectile dysfunction, and why our later years can actually be our "power stage" for connection. You’ll also hear about:(01:42) The big question: Is sexual chemistry real or can it be intentionally built?(02:54) How trauma patterns, attachment styles, and hormonal cycles affect attraction(03:21) The fascinating study on how ovulation influences physical magnetism and receptivity(04:53) The secret to chemistry: Harnessing internal arousal rather than looking for external validation(08:00) Why labels like "sapiosexual" or "polyamorous" can sometimes limit our capacity for connection(12:19) Why following a strict "checklist" might make you miss the right person(15:40) The "Likability" Experiment: How judging others on apps vs. real life changes your energy(18:00) Is sexual incompatibility real, or is it a lack of skills and attunement?(23:30) Debunking libido myths: Menopause, testosterone, and the "power stage" of life(38:50) Navigating sensitive conversations around ED and performance anxiety in modern dating(44:00) The "Penetration Protocol" study and how couples can revolutionize their intimacy Rate, Review & Follow The Dating LabListen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. If this episode resonated, please rate, review, and share - it helps more people discover the show. Learn More About Dr. Saida and Aaron MichaelVisit Embodied Love UniversityListen to The Embodied Love Lounge Podcast Learn more about Alyssa Dineen:Visit Style My ProfileFollow Alyssa on InstagramFollow Alyssa on TikTok

    50 min.

  7. 21. JAN.

    Episode 7: Style, Identity, and Reinvention: Alyssa Dineen Talks with Stacy London

    In this powerful and deeply reflective episode, Alyssa Dineen sits down with iconic stylist, designer, author, and midlife advocate Stacy London for a conversation about identity, confidence, aging, and the evolving meaning of personal style. Best known as the co-host of What Not to Wear, Stacy shares how her philosophy has shifted from prescribing fashion rules to helping people reconnect with their own agency and intuition. She opens up about the emotional impact of being judged publicly, the limitations of trend-driven fashion, and why clothes alone can never be the source of true confidence. Alyssa and Stacy explore the intersection of style, self-worth, and midlife transition, including menopause, women’s health, and why this life stage deserves more honesty and visibility. They discuss sustainable fashion, vintage shopping, overconsumption, and how building a wardrobe with intention can reflect who you are now—not who you used to be. This episode is an empowering reminder that style is not about fitting in or fixing yourself, but about trusting what makes you feel alive. You’ll also hear about:(01:00) Stacy’s evolution from What Not to Wear to personal empowerment(03:10) Why modern culture no longer needs traditional style “experts”(04:20) The difference between personal style and trends(05:45) Constructive criticism, judgment, and agency in fashion(07:00) The emotional impact of public scrutiny(08:15) Stepping away from the mirror and redefining confidence(10:00) Why clothes can’t be the foundation of self-esteem(11:20) What’s broken in the fashion industry today(12:45) Why women are underserved by fashion brands(14:30) Midlife style challenges and finding the middle ground(17:10) Why vintage shopping supports individuality(18:30) Favorite vintage and resale platforms(22:40) How to shop vintage with intention(25:00) Clothing swaps, resale, and circular fashion(27:00) Building a wardrobe with “character builder” pieces(28:55) Overconsumption and fashion’s environmental impact(31:30) Midlife transitions and living with more presence(33:00) Why Stacy closed State of Menopause(35:40) Menopause as a health and lifestyle issue(37:30) The business of menopause and women’s health(38:50) The emotional costs of midlife for women(41:00) Reframing menopause and aging(42:45) Identity, introspection, and trusting yourself(45:30) Reclaiming freedom, confidence, and self-expression Rate, Review & Follow The Dating LabListen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. If this episode resonated, please rate, review, and share—it helps more people discover the show. Learn More About Stacy LondonFollow Stacey on FacebookLearn more about Stacey Learn more about Alyssa Dineen:Visit Style My ProfileFollow Alyssa on InstagramFollow Alyssa on TikTok

    45 min.

  8. 7. JAN.

    Episode 6: Modern Dating Myths and What Actually Works with Damona Hoffman

    Episode SummaryIn this insightful and grounded episode, Alyssa Dineen sits down with celebrity dating coach, media personality, and bestselling author Damona Hoffman to break down the biggest misconceptions in modern dating, and what actually leads to lasting connection. Damona shares how dating apps changed the landscape of relationships, why over-texting creates false intimacy, and how chasing instant chemistry can distract us from true compatibility. Drawing from years of coaching experience and her own love story, she explains why dating works best when treated as a process rather than a spark-driven guessing game. Alyssa and Damona also unpack outdated dating rules, shifting gender norms, and how communication breakdowns contribute to dating burnout. Together, they offer practical guidance for moving off the apps, setting realistic expectations, and building attraction over time, without losing yourself in the process. This episode is a refreshing reality check for anyone feeling confused, discouraged, or overwhelmed by modern dating. You’ll also hear about:(01:00) Damona’s background and how she became a dating coach(02:30) Translating personal branding principles into dating profiles(04:40) Why dating apps became essential, and who they actually serve(06:10) The communication crisis in modern dating(08:30) Dating burnout and the illusion of connection through texting(09:25) Why you can’t truly know someone through messages alone(11:20) The “one-to-one rule” and when to move off the apps(13:45) Phone calls vs. first dates as screening tools(15:15) Managing expectations and emotional energy in early dating(17:00) Letting go of outdated dating rules and gender roles(19:30) How relationships and marriage have evolved(20:30) Reciprocity over rigid roles in modern partnerships(23:25) Damona’s real-life dating experiment, and how she met her husband(27:00) Why dating should be treated as a process, not a vibe(30:00) Rethinking distance, flexibility, and logistics in dating(35:40) How dating needs change across different life stages(38:15) Questioning inherited stories about love and romance(39:05) Chemistry vs. compatibility, and why chemistry alone isn’t enough(40:50) The three-date rule and how attraction actually builds(44:15) Rom-com expectations vs. real-life relationships(47:25) What went wrong with dating apps, and how to use them intentionally(49:40) Choosing happiness over being “right”(51:05) Where to find Damona’s work, podcast, and retreats Rate, Review & Follow The Dating LabListen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. If this episode resonated, please rate, review, and share—it helps more people find the show. Learn More About Damona HoffmanVisit her websiteListen to the Dates & Mates podcastFollow Damona on Instagram Learn more about Alyssa Dineen:Visit Style My ProfileFollow Alyssa on InstagramFollow Alyssa on TikTok

    56 min.
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Om

The Dating Lab is a podcast hosted by dating expert and profile stylist Alyssa Dineen, where modern dating gets a much-needed makeover. Through candid conversations with guests who’ve cracked the code, or are still figuring it out, Alyssa explores what it really takes to date with intention, clarity, and emotional safety. From profile rewrites to post-divorce success stories, The Dating Lab offers practical strategies, heartfelt stories, and a refreshing take on finding connection in today’s dating world.

Oplysninger

  • Skaber
    Alyssa Dineen
  • Aktive år
    2025 - 2026
  • Episoder
    13
  • Vurdering
    Anstødeligt
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Alyssa Dineen
  • Websted for serie
    The Dating Lab
  • Leverandør

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