In this week’s episode, Matchmaker Maria is joined by co-host Sam Santos and returning guest Ashley Feinstein Gerstley, a financial expert known as the Fiscal Femme, to discuss the crucial topic of finances in relationships   Sam shares her personal experience of moving in with her boyfriend—how they navigate shared expenses, their approach to financial planning, and what it’s like transitioning from her own space to his family home. Ashley provides insightful tips on how to discuss money...

Matchmaker Maria hosts from Mexico! where she’s attending the 12th Annual Matchmakers Alliance Conference. Joining her is guest co-host Louis Felix, a seasoned matchmaker with over 20 years in the industry. Together, they reminisce about the early days of the conference and its mission to bring matchmakers together in a collaborative, supportive community—something Maria co-founded with fellow matchmakers Michelle Jacoby and Laurie Berzack. Beyond the industry insights, Maria and Louis dive...

In this timely episode, Matchmaker Maria welcomes back co-host Samantha Santos for a candid discussion on how politics shape our closest relationships and dating choices. EARLY EPISODE DROP ALERT! 🚨 🗳 As Election Day approaches, Matchmaker Maria and Sam delve into how political beliefs influence compatibility, friendships, and even the matchmaking process, bringing to light the personal stakes involved in voting and civic engagement. Drawing from her matchmaking experience, Maria highlights...

Trusting after heartbreak! In this episode of Ask a Matchmaker, host Maria invites comedian and podcast host Samantha Santos to share her raw, heartfelt journey of rediscovering trust after a deeply painful betrayal. Together, they dive into Sam's shocking story of catching her ex-fiancé cheating and how that revelation shattered her perception of love and commitment. Maria and Samantha unpack the emotional toll of such heartbreak, shedding light on the struggles many people face when trying...

We’re delving into a poignant topic that touches many hearts—dating after loss. They're joined by grief and trauma therapist, Gina Martha, who brings over 20 years of expertise in helping individuals navigate life transitions, including breakups, divorce, and the devastating impact of death. Today's discussion takes a more sensitive turn as they talk about the challenges of finding love after losing a loved one. Jenny, still navigating the loss of her sister, opens up about her personal...

New episode with Matchmaker Maria and comedian @jennyzigrino ! Maria has some big news—she's got a book coming out, and the cover reveal is happening right on air! Check it out out on YouTube!  Maria and Jenny chat about the book, manifesting success, and the importance of preorders. Jenny’s been busy with her comedy tour, sharing funny stories from Alaska. The conversation shifts to Jenny’s online dating life, and Maria checks in on the changes Jenny made to her profiles after some advice....

New episode with Matchmaker Maria and comedian @jennyzigrino  who have the amazing Intimacy with Leandra on!  Jenny adds her signature humor, while Leandra offers expert guidance on s3x, intimacy, and relationships. Leandra explains her role as a somatic s3x and relationship coach, helping people and couples explore and improve their intimate connections without crossing physical boundaries. She shares her experience working with individuals on everything from building secure attachment to...

In this episode of Ask a Matchmaker, Matchmaker Maria teams up with comedian  Jenny Zigrino to talk all things dating apps and relationship deal breakers. They explore how to navigate the world of dating apps, why it's sometimes better to swap swipes for real-life experiences like pottery classes, and what it’s really like to date… a puppeteer. Next, Maria dives into Jenny’s Hinge profile, uncovering stunning photos but advising some key updates to her first few picks. From refreshing...

Ask A Matchmaker is Coming Back!  In this gripping and deeply emotional episode, Matchmaker Maria brings you the extraordinary story of Lolita Jackson, a woman who not only witnessed history but survived its darkest days. Lolita’s journey is not just one of survival; it’s a testament to the strength of the human spirit, the power of resilience, and the courage it takes to rebuild a life after unimaginable loss.   Lolita Jackson was a high-achieving chemical engineer turned Wall Street...

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of the “Ask a Matchmaker” podcast, Matchmaker Maria sits down with Amalia Kalogridakis, the newly appointed CEO of Agape Escapes, to delve into the profound impact of finding and connecting with like-minded individuals. Broadcasting from a cozy setting in Greece, they explore Amalia’s personal journey of navigating major life transitions, including her separation and divorce after a 14-year relationship, and how finding new purpose and hope through...

Join Matchmaker Maria in this engaging episode of the “Ask the Matchmaker Hotline,” recorded from the comfort of her home. Maria shares the whirlwind of her current life, from finalizing her book manuscript to preparing for an extended stay in Greece. Alongside special guest and fellow matchmaker, Louie Felix, they dive into the intricacies of dating assessments and the art of matchmaking. Louie, the Chief Operating Officer at Agape Match, brings his extensive experience to the table,...

In this episode of the “Ask a Matchmaker” podcast, Matchmaker Maria is joined by dating coach and author Lily Womble to celebrate the release of her new book, “Thank You, More Please.” They dive into the core principles of feminist dating, discussing how traditional dating advice often fails women by perpetuating patriarchal norms. Lily shares insights on her 12-Date Rule method, designed to shift focus from physical to emotional compatibility, and offers practical steps for a dating detox to...

In this heartfelt episode of the Ask a Matchmaker podcast, host Matchmaker Maria sits down with Katie Brandt, a dedicated caregiving advocate. Katie shares her deeply personal journey of balancing marriage, motherhood, and the immense responsibilities of caregiving for her husband diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia at 29 and later her father with Alzheimer's. Together, they discuss the emotional, physical, and financial challenges caregivers face, the impact on dating and relationships,...

In this week's episode, I'm thrilled to welcome my good friend Chrissy Rutherford to the show! Together, we dive deep into the ever-evolving world of dating and relationships. We'll kick things off with a lively debate on a classic dating dilemma: who should foot the bill on a date? From there, we'll unpack the dos and don’ts of bridesmaid etiquette, offering our insights on how to handle the common challenges and expectations that come with the role. Plus, we're spicing things up with some...

🎙️ In this week's episode of Ask A Matchmaker, join me and my sister, Matchmaker Chrisoula, as we dive into some thrilling personal news—I've just bought my first home! 🏡 We're excited to share all the details about the journey and what this new chapter means for me. Plus, we're taking your Hotline questions live! Don't miss out on this heartfelt and celebratory episode!   *******Stay Connected!******** @matchmakermaria (Follow!) @askamatchmaker (Follow the pod!) Make sure to...

On this Hotline episode, we are joined by comedian, Caitlin Peluffo where we answer your questions about the world of weddings, marriage, and relationships! 🎉💍❤️ Join us as we take your live calls, offering personal advice, sharing experiences, and discussing everything from the magic of wedding planning to the complexities of long-term relationships. Originally hailing from San Francisco, Caitlin Peluffo is a stand-up comedian living in New York City.  This lovable loose cannon made her...

In this enlightening episode of Ask a Matchmaker, Maria is joined by dynamic duo Nick Rosen and Natalie Cramer, the brains behind the popular singles dating event, Single Saturdays, hosted on Eventbrite. Dive into the behind-the-scenes of organizing these vibrant gatherings and discover the secrets to making meaningful connections. Whether you're looking to meet someone special or just want to expand your social circle, this discussion is packed with practical advice on approaching group...

Join us for an enlightening episode as we welcome esteemed psychotherapist Dr. Heather Browne. This week, we delve into the art of conscious communication and explore three crucial conversations that can either strengthen or jeopardize your relationship. Tune in to gain expert insights and practical advice on navigating these pivotal discussions for a healthier, more connected partnership.  For 25 years, Dr Heather Browne has gracefully balanced the roles of psychotherapist and mother,...

On this week's episode, I am joined by Kirsy Lovett. We improve her online dating profile and we take some hotline questions together! New York native, first-generation Dominican-American, content creator and model Kirsy Lovett translates her love of fitness, beauty and fashion into compelling content for her followers on Instagram, Tiktok and her website, kirsylovett.com. She has been tapped for campaigns for brands including H&M, Meta, Kiehl’s, Reformation, Free People and Grey Goose,...

On this week's episode, we are joined by Chris Rackliffe to discuss anxious attachment styles, signs of codependency, and tools for getting over the fear of abandonment.   Chris Rackliffe, also known as @crackliffe, is a trauma healer, mental health advocate, anxious attachment style coach, and author of the self-help book, It’s Good to See Me Again: How to Find Your Way When You Feel Lost—an illuminating guidebook on the journey to find emotional healing. Chris has worked with hundreds of...

Alison Leiby is a writer and comedian in New York. She has written for The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Life & Beth, The President Show, and many others. Her stand up has appeared on Comedy Central and her solo hour, "Oh God, A Show About Abortion" ran off-Broadway at the Cherry Lane theater with multiple extensions and had a run at the Kennedy Center. She's the cohost of the podcast Ruined with Halle Kiefer, who runs a different horror movie for Alison each week. @ruinedpodcast on socials! ...

Jordana joins Matchmaker Maria on the Ask a Matchmaker Podcast -- they catch up the new cool things happening at Betches and Jordana's fertility journey.    Jordana Abraham is Co-Founder and Chief Innovation Officer of Betches, one of the earliest digitally native media and entertainment companies founded and led by women and the most influential female-focused humor brand in the market today. Betches was founded in 2011 and bootstrapped by Jordana with her childhood friends Aleen Dreksler...

This week's episode, Matchmaker Maria interviews psychotherapist Lisa Brateman on financial infidelity and moving on. They are joined by Matchmaker Chrisoula.  Lisa Brateman, LCSW, is a psychotherapist, relationship specialist, public speaker, and media commentator with more than two decades of experience. She offers individual, couples, and group therapy in New York City. Her areas of expertise include anxiety and depression, couples therapy—marital and premarital—and conflict resolution....

This week’s guest is Janine Rogan, author of The Pink Tax and founder of the Wealth Building Academy. Janine’s mission is to educate and empower women to grow their wealth confidently and profitably through financial feminism—financial equality for all. Janine has been featured internationally in a number of publications and has delivered keynotes to thousands of individuals and companies around the world. She currently sits on the CPA Alberta Education Foundation board, the board of FESA,...