My Perfect Romance

Valerie, Courtney & Lisa

Valerie, Courtney and Lisa share and discuss all things romance whether it be books, movies, love stories or your stories.

  1. 15h ago

    101 | Relationship Red Flags: Is Your Partner’s Best Friend Overstepping Emotional Boundaries? WWYD? #19

    This episode tackles a messy relationship triangle: a newly engaged couple, a longtime best friend named Chloe, and the question of whether concern is intuition or insecurity. The hosts unpack how breakup grief, loyalty, boundary-setting, and dismissal can all collide at once.It is a relationship discussion focused on communication, emotional validation, and what happens when one partner feels unsafe but the other does not. Key topics In this episode, a 22-year-old engaged person worries that their fiance's best friend Chloe is crossing emotional boundaries after a recent breakup. The hosts note that Chloe and the fiance have known each other since kindergarten, which makes the friendship deep, loyal, and hard to navigate. They discuss how being called “too young” or “rushing into things” can feel dismissive, even if the concern comes from a place of worry. The conversation turns on Chloe becoming more physically affectionate, asking for late-night visits, and making comments that sound possessive. The line “no one will ever know my fiance or love her as deeply as she does” is identified as the clearest red flag in the whole situation. The hosts emphasize that feelings are always real, even if the conclusions drawn from them are not always true. A major theme is the difference between validating a partner’s concern and agreeing with their interpretation. They argue that the bigger problem may be the fiance’s refusal to acknowledge the concern at all, not just Chloe’s behavior. Let’s Chat! Have a love story to share or a book recommendation we can’t miss? Maybe you have a "What Would You Do?" dilemma for us to tackle? We’d also love to hear from published authors or fellow relationship podcasters interested in an interview! Head over to www.myperfectromance.com to connect.  But while you're here… don’t forget to follow the show and leave a rating or review. It means the world to us! Legal Disclaimer: My Perfect Romance is hosted by friends sharing personal opinions and entertainment. We are not licensed relationship experts, counselors, or therapists. For professional advice, please consult a licensed relationship specialist or mental health professional.  Coming Up: Girls Like Girls starring Maya da Costa and Myra Molloy One Golden Summer by Carly Fortune Apparently, I'm A Bitch with Demi Blaze Chapters (00:00:00) - The Perfect Romance!(00:02:31) - Best Friend Says She's Too Young For Her fiance's Wedding(00:05:58) - I've Noticed A Change In How Chloe Treats My fiance(00:09:16) - Is She Being More Physical With Her Guy?(00:11:22) - 3 Signs That My Best Friend Is Trying To Make a Move On(00:14:01) - Brad and His Best Friend's Breakup(00:17:46) - Girlfriend Denies Her fiance's Concerns About His Relationship(00:21:59) - "I'm in a Long Relationship With My Partner"(00:22:36) - What Should I Do About My Best Friend's Relationship(00:23:43) - The Concerned fiance Should Ask For Boundaries(00:28:19) - What Would You Do If Your GF Was Being Aggressive?(00:32:55) - What to Do About a Boundary Problem(00:35:56) - "How Do We Help Zoe?"(00:39:06) - Perfect Romance

    101 | Relationship Red Flags: Is Your Partner’s Best Friend Overstepping Emotional Boundaries?  WWYD? #19
  2. Aug 12

    100 | Beyond Happily Ever After: The Science of Long-term Love with Lee Baucom

    In this podcast, we deep dived into the world of ‘Happily Ever After’—and what actually happens after the final page is turned. To help us separate the soulmate myths from relationship science, we are joined by, Lee Baucom, a man who spends his days helping couples navigate the ‘sequels’ that romance novels usually skip over. Lee shares actionable advice on maintaining connection, debunks common romance myths, and emphasizes the importance of daily interactions and emotional regulation in sustaining long-term love. Key Topics: The critical role of daily low-intensity, high-frequency positive interactions in relationships Why grand gestures are temporary fixes rather than sustainable solutions How small 'bids' for connection, like sharing a bite or a glance, build trust and intimacy Identifying red flags in romantic tropes such as enemies-to-lovers or forced proximity The biological basis of passion and how to bridge the chemical gap with intentional actions The misconception of 'the one' and focusing on skill-building rather than fate Defensive behaviors, emotional dysregulation, and the importance of safety and ownership in conflicts Tools and resources such as the Unpause Marriage app and Save the Marriage system for relationship repair How emotional safety and good communication markers predict relationship resilience Addressing the cultural and myth-based ideas about effortless love and the importance of skills over infatuation Resources & Links: Save the Marriage System Save the Marriage Podcast Book: How to Save Your Marriage in 3 Simple Steps Book: Recovering from an Affair Let’s Chat! Have a love story to share or a book recommendation we can’t miss? Maybe you have a "What Would You Do?" dilemma for us to tackle? We’d also love to hear from published authors or fellow relationship podcasters interested in an interview! Head over to www.myperfectromance.com to connect.  But while you're here… don’t forget to follow the show and leave a rating or review. Letting us know what you think really means the world to us! Legal Disclaimer: My Perfect Romance is hosted by friends sharing personal opinions and entertainment. We are not licensed relationship experts, counselors, or therapists. For professional advice, please consult a licensed relationship specialist or mental health professional, like Lee Baucom. Coming Up: Girls Like Girls starring Maya da Costa and Myra Molloy Apparently, I'm a Bitch with Demi Blaze One Golden Summer by Carly Fortune Chapters (00:00:00) - THE PERPETUAL ROMANCE(00:00:31) - In the Elevator With Steven Lee(00:01:43) - Lee Balcomb on Her New Book(00:02:55) - The Importance of Relationships(00:05:29) - The Grand Gesture in Relationships(00:09:27) - The Bad Things Parents Do For Their Kids(00:10:42) - Red flags for a Sustainable Real World Marriage(00:11:52) - Forced Closeness and How It Affects People(00:12:54) - What Are the Key Problems in Relationships?(00:17:37) - The arc of a relationship(00:18:36) - How To Fall in Love(00:22:08) - Can a Person Change Their Attachment Style Just Because They Met The(00:27:07) - What Are the Signs That a Relationship Is Staying Together?(00:30:17) - How to emotionally regulate the other person(00:34:43) - How to Be More Real in the Relationship(00:36:15) - How to Win in a Relationship With Conflict(00:36:55) - Fighting Controlling Behavior in Relationships(00:39:30) - The One and How It Affects Relationships(00:43:38) - How to Have a Successful Marriage(00:46:54) - How To Get Out of a Relationship(00:48:14) - What Makes a Happy Couple?(00:49:36) - Pam and Jim's Pickleball(00:51:24) - Marriage and Pickleball(00:53:23) - Is Edward and Bella Avoidant Attachment?(00:57:05) - What Romance Writers Need to Know About Relationships(01:02:29) - How to Get Out of Pain(01:03:23) - Punishing the Relationship: How to Unpause Your Marriage

    100 | Beyond Happily Ever After: The Science of Long-term Love with Lee Baucom
  3. Aug 5

    99 | You, Me, & Tuscany Review: Starring Halle Bailey & Regé-Jean Page

    Discover the emotional rollercoaster of You, Me, and Tuscany, a film that explores impulsive decisions, deception, and the possibility of love in a picturesque Italian setting. Val, Courtney, and Lisa will help analyze whether this romantic comedy lives up to its scenic romance or falls into fantasy land. Resources & Links: You, Me and Tuscany Trailor Final note: This film is pure scenery fluff, offering a visually stunning escape but scant on character growth or realistic relationships. Perfect for a light watch, but not for those craving depth or authenticity. Happy romancing, everyone! Let’s Chat! Have a love story to share or a book recommendation we can’t miss? Maybe you have a "What Would You Do?" dilemma for us to tackle? We’d also love to hear from published authors or fellow relationship podcasters interested in an interview! Head over to www.myperfectromance.com to connect.  But while you're here… don’t forget to follow the show and leave a rating or review. It means the world to us! Legal Disclaimer: My Perfect Romance is hosted by friends sharing personal opinions and entertainment. We are not licensed relationship experts, counselors, or therapists. For professional advice, please consult a licensed relationship specialist or mental health professional.  Coming Up: Girls Like Girls starring Maya da Costa and Myra Molloy Apparently, I'm a Bitch with Demi Blaze One Golden Summer by Carly Fortune Chapters (00:00:00) - THE PERPETUAL ROMANCE(00:00:32) - Airplane Cooties(00:00:58) - Yumi and Tuscany(00:02:21) - Silence of the Lambs: Fun Facts(00:04:58) - How To Be Discovered(00:07:00) - The Cast Of 'Romance'(00:08:11) - Anna On The Run Gets Caught(00:12:45) - "Wear Someone's Clothes"(00:13:25) - The Other Person In 'Love Actually'(00:17:00) - Anna Stealing Her Lover's Money In Italy(00:21:01) - How To Steal A Wedding Ring From An Empty House(00:24:08) - In The Elevator With Michael(00:27:20) - She Almost Kisses His Brother's fiance in(00:29:21) - Anna Tells Mateo About Her Engagement(00:32:56) - The Stages Of Grieving Anna(00:35:41) - Anna in 'The Help'(00:39:23) - What If It Was A Homeless Person vs. An Average Person(00:43:00) - How Long Will The Hot Crazy Family Last?(00:46:32) - I Hated The Gape Year(00:50:12) - MY Perfect Romance: The Movie Review(00:52:30) - Lee Balcom On How To Save Your Marriage

    99 | You, Me, & Tuscany Review: Starring Halle Bailey & Regé-Jean Page
  4. Jul 29

    98 | Cultivating Trust & Connection An Interview with Lionel Moses author of The Marriage Seed

    Val, Courtney, and Lisa talk to Lionel Moses, relationship coach and author of The Marriage Sea, as he shares powerful analogies, life lessons, and practical advice on cultivating meaningful connections. Whether you're single, dating, or married, learn how to enhance communication, trust, and growth in your relationships. Resources & Links: Get Your Copy of The Marriage Seed by Lionel Moses TheMarriageSeed.com Connect with Lionel Moses: Instagram Facebook Connect With Us!!! If you'd like to suggest we review a movie or book, ask us what would you do, or if you've written a published book and would like to do an interview, please reach out to us! You can go to our website at: www.myperfectromance.com. Please follow us wherever you get your podcasts and if you enjoy our content, rate and review. We can't wait to hear your feedback!!! We would appreciate it so much! Legal Disclaimer: My Perfect Romance is hosted by friends sharing personal opinions and entertainment. We are not licensed relationship experts, counselors, or therapists. For professional advice, please consult a licensed relationship specialist or mental health professional. Coming Up: You, Me, & Tuscany starring Halle Bailey & Regé-Jean Page   100th Episode: DeBunking Happily Ever After with Lee Baucom from Save The Marriage Podcast Apparently, I'm A Bitch with Demi Blaze  Chapters (00:00:00) - My Perfect Romance: Lionel Moses on(00:01:27) - How Being the Only Boy In Your Family Changed My Life(00:02:44) - How Brothers and Sisters Differ(00:04:33) - In the Elevator With My Marriage(00:07:12) - Lionel on Love and Relationships(00:10:30) - In the Elevator With Love(00:12:01) - In the Elevator With Plants(00:13:52) - How to Grow a Successful Garden(00:17:26) - In the Elevator With People Pleasers(00:19:07) - Talking About Relationships(00:19:41) - Matt: The Most Controversial Things in Your Dating Season(00:24:06) - Say No To Relationships(00:26:48) - 3 Rules For Respect in a Relationship(00:28:29) - Relationship: The Other Seasons(00:32:34) - Winter Is For Growing Your Love Life(00:36:09) - How Communication Has Changed My Life(00:37:16) - What Would You Tell Your Younger Self?(00:38:27) - How to Get Out Of A Relationship in Your 30's(00:42:05) - MY PERFECT ROMANCE: Match Jelly Beans

    98 | Cultivating Trust & Connection An Interview with Lionel Moses author of The Marriage Seed
  5. Jul 22

    97 | Colleen Hoover's Woman Down: Fact vs. Fiction

    In this episode, we explore Colleen Hoover's novel "Woman Down," highlighting its raw portrayal of gaslighting, trauma, and the blurred lines of fantasy and reality. We unravel Hoover's inspiration, character dynamics, and the fascinating intersection between personal pain and creative expression. Main Topics & Insights: Overview of "Woman Down" and its themes of gaslighting, stalking, and invasion of privacy Hoover's background: From limited charity release to a full novel (2026) inspired by her own experiences The impact of Hollywood adaptations on authors, illustrated through "It Ends With Us" controversy How Hoover’s personal trauma influences her characters and storytelling The role of flawed yet relatable women in Hoover's work and their cinematic adaptations The complicated ethical lines in role-play, writing, and emotional boundaries The psychology of fear, arousal, and trauma responses, especially in intense scenarios Interpretation of Hoover's depiction of unhealthy relationships and their transient natures The importance of community and support systems among women The novel as a thriller within a romance, with unpredictable twists and emotional depth Resources: Colleen Hoover - Official Website Elizabeth Gilbert TED Talk Books on Trauma & Creativity Connect With Us!!! If you'd like to suggest we review a movie or book, ask us what would you do, or if you've written a published book and would like to do an interview, please reach out to us! You can go to our website at: www.myperfectromance.com. Please follow us wherever you get your podcasts and if you enjoy our content, rate and review. We can't wait to hear your feedback!!! We would appreciate it so much! Legal Disclaimer: My Perfect Romance is hosted by friends sharing personal opinions and entertainment. We are not licensed relationship experts, counselors, or therapists. For professional advice, please consult a licensed relationship specialist or mental health professional. Coming Up: The Marriage Seed with Lionel Moses You, Me, & Tuscany starring Halle Bailey & Regé-Jean Page   100th Episode: DeBunking Happily Ever After with Lee Baucom from Save The Marriage Podcast Apparently, I'm A Bitch with Demi Blaze  Chapters (00:00:00) - THE PERPETUAL ROMANCE(00:00:37) - Woman Down by Colleen Hoover(00:01:36) - Wonders Down by Colleen Hoover(00:02:44) - Petra Rose in 'A Terrible Thing'(00:06:02) - Colleen Hoover on 'It Ends With Us'(00:08:34) - The Fight Over 'Blinded'(00:12:57) - Colleen Hoover on Her Flawless Women(00:13:20) - Colleen Hoover on Her Books(00:15:31) - When You're In Love With Your Partner(00:16:28) - PeeCee on Her Love Triangle(00:20:37) - The Book of Love(00:25:08) - The Stalker's Behavior in My Book(00:30:42) - The Bad Sex of 'The Book'(00:32:34) - "The Case of Petra"(00:33:39) - Tell Me The Crisis(00:35:12) - In the Elevator With St. Augustine(00:38:51) - Colleen Hoover on The Affair(00:42:44) - "The Detective" by Colleen Hoover(00:46:09) - Colleen Goober on Her Own Life(00:47:46) - How Spicy Was The Romance in My Book?(00:49:02) - Favorite Line From Eat, Pray Love(00:52:16) - "The Bells Are Ringing"(00:56:23) - The Perfect Romance

    97 | Colleen Hoover's Woman Down: Fact vs. Fiction
  6. Jul 15

    96 | When Grown Kids Take Advantage: Setting Boundaries - What Would You Do? #18

    Val, Courtney, and Lisa explore the delicate dynamics of adult children’s independence, boundary setting, and the importance of self-care for parents dealing with unresponsive or disrespectful behavior from their grown children. Discover practical strategies to foster healthier relationships and support your loved ones without losing yourself. Main Topics: The impact of adult children's recurring cancellations and disrespect on parents The developmental stages of young adults and expectations for mature behavior How to establish and enforce boundaries effectively with adult children The significance of self-compassion, self-esteem, and emotional resilience for parents Strategies for transforming transactional relationships into genuine human connections Resources and Links: Boundaries by Dr. Henry Cloud & Dr. John Townsend Self-Compassion by Kristin Neff The Power of Vulnerability by Brené Brown Connect With Us: Let’s Chat! Have a love story to share or a book recommendation we can’t miss? Maybe you have a "What Would You Do?" dilemma for us to tackle? We’d also love to hear from published authors or fellow relationship podcasters interested in an interview! Head over to www.myperfectromance.com to connect.  But while you're here… don’t forget to follow the show and leave a rating or review. It means the world to us! Legal Disclaimer: My Perfect Romance is hosted by friends sharing personal opinions and entertainment. We are not licensed relationship experts, counselors, or therapists. For professional advice, please consult a licensed relationship specialist or mental health professional.  Coming Up:  Woman Down by Colleen Hoover The Marriage Seed with author Lionel Moses You, Me, & Tuscany starring Halle Bailey & Regé-Jean Page Chapters (00:00:00) - THE PERFECTION ROMANCE(00:00:42) - How Old Are My Grown Children?(00:05:01) - When A Parent Can't Help His Child(00:08:57) - How to Stop Being Hurt by Your Partner(00:12:41) - The Couple's Struggle to Say No(00:17:39) - "You Can't Buy Your Child's Love!"(00:21:11) - How To Set Boundaries For Your Child(00:26:04) - How To Deal With a Non-Respectful Partner(00:30:24) - What To Do If Your Child Is Abusing You(00:32:29) - Oh Good Night

    96 | When Grown Kids Take Advantage: Setting Boundaries - What Would You Do? #18
  7. Jul 8

    95 | Does The Drama starring Robert Pattinson & Zendaya live up to the Hype?

    Join us as we unpack the themes, characters, and societal issues depicted in the 2026 film "The Drama." From love stories to mental health, gun violence, and toxic friendships, this episode explores the profound messages woven into this romance drama and what they reveal about our culture. In this episode: A detailed overview of the film's plot, characters, and major themes How the movie tackles societal issues like gun violence, bullying, and mental health The significance of forgiveness, do-overs, and repairing relationships The portrayal of toxic versus healthy friendships Insights into character development, especially Emma's journey The depiction of cultural commentary on violence and media sensationalization The importance of emotional safety and communication in relationships Reflections on ending with hope and a fresh start despite conflicts Resources: Book on Healthy Relationships Understanding Gun Violence and Media Impact Negotiation & Communication in Relationships Connect with the Cast & Creators: Zendaya - Instagram Robert Pattinson - Twitter The Drama Official Trailer Connect with Us:  Let’s Chat! Have a love story to share or a book recommendation we can’t miss? Maybe you have a "What Would You Do?" dilemma for us to tackle? We’d also love to hear from published authors or fellow relationship podcasters interested in an interview! Head over to www.myperfectromance.com to connect.  But while you're here… don’t forget to follow the show and leave a rating or review. It means the world to us! Legal Disclaimer: My Perfect Romance is hosted by friends sharing personal opinions and entertainment. We are not licensed relationship experts, counselors, or therapists. For professional advice, please consult a licensed relationship specialist or mental health professional.  Upcoming Books & Movies: Woman Down by Colleen Hoover Interview with Lionel Moses author of The Marriage Seed You, Me, & Tuscany starring Halle Bailey & Regé-Jean Page Chapters (00:00:00) - THE PERFECTION OF ROMANCE(00:00:31) - Zendaya and Tom Holland in 'Candy'(00:01:56) - 2026 Ending Explained(00:04:18) - The Blind Couple's Meet(00:09:32) - The Best Friend's Wedding(00:13:27) - Oh, The Worst(00:14:06) - Emma on Why She Was Considering Doing A Mass Shooting(00:19:16) - The Best Friend in '(00:23:38) - Charlie Makes Out With His Assistant In The Wedding(00:27:22) - The Wedding Speech(00:29:20) - Hating The Best Friend(00:33:38) - The Year of the Bullying(00:37:29) - Adam Levine on 'The Good Guy'(00:41:55) - "Let's Love Each Other"(00:43:20) - The Fault in Our Love(00:46:59) - Emma in 'The Help'(00:50:15) - The Perfect Romance

    95 | Does The Drama starring Robert Pattinson & Zendaya live up to the Hype?
  8. Jul 1

    94 | The Gap Year with Author Lindsey Goldstein: Midlife Reinvention & Romance

    Join us as we explore themes of personal growth, midlife reinvention, and the empowerment found in embracing life's changes through our conversation with author Lindsay Goldstein. She shares insights from her debut novel, The Gap Year, and her own life experiences that inspired her storytelling. Key Topics: How midlife women are redefining love and adventure The importance of self-love, forgiveness, and embracing change Balancing motherhood, relationships, and personal goals in midlife Practical advice for women considering a "gap year" or life-changing adventure Resources & Links: Lindsey Goldstein Official Website Lindsey Goldstein on Instagram Lindsey Goldstein Substack The Gap Year on Amazon Coming Up: Let’s Chat! Have a love story to share or a book recommendation we can’t miss? Maybe you have a "What Would You Do?" dilemma for us to tackle? We’d also love to hear from published authors or fellow relationship podcasters interested in an interview! Head over to www.myperfectromance.com to connect.  But while you're here… don’t forget to follow the show and leave a rating or review. It means the world to us! Legal Disclaimer: My Perfect Romance is hosted by friends sharing personal opinions and entertainment. We are not licensed relationship experts, counselors, or therapists. For professional advice, please consult a licensed relationship specialist or mental health professional.  Coming Up: The Drama starring Robert Pattinson & Zendaya Woman Down by Colleen Hoover Interview with Lionel Moses author of The Marriage Seed You, Me, & Tuscany starring Halle Bailey & Regé-Jean Page Chapters (00:00:00) - How to Write a Novel(00:01:40) - Jane Austen's 'The Visits'(00:08:31) - Jane Eyre on Her Husband's Treatment(00:09:26) - Jane and Laura's Cross generational Friendship(00:16:36) - The Reinvention of Jane Seymour(00:21:10) - The Book of Me: A Woman in Her 40s(00:28:12) - Jane Goes to the Galapagos(00:34:56) - Take a Leap of Imagination(00:39:20) - Where Can Fans Find You?(00:41:45) - Book Review

    94 | The Gap Year with Author Lindsey Goldstein: Midlife Reinvention & Romance

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Valerie, Courtney and Lisa share and discuss all things romance whether it be books, movies, love stories or your stories.