Jeff Guenther, AKA TherapyJeff on Instagram, joins Damona in the premiere of Season 12 of Dates & Mates for a state of the date address! They cover all phases of the dating journey from clarifying what you’re seeking to first dates, defining the relationship and even planning for the dreaded breakup. The Dear Damona question this week is: What’s the best way to reach out to someone new on LinkedIn? Be sure to follow Jeff on Instagram @TherapyJeff and grab a copy of his new book, Big Dating Energy, on shelves now! And get Damona’s bestselling book “F the Fairy Tale” in ebook, audiobook, and hardcover everywhere books are sold (FtheFairyTaleBook.com) This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Get convenient, online therapy with BetterHelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/DATESANDMATES today to get 10% off your first month. TIMESTAMPS Introduction to Season 12 (00:00:00) Overview of the Episode (00:02:06) Introducing Therapy Jeff (00:04:29) Jeff's Book Release (00:05:00) Collaborating with an Ex (00:06:47) Personal Insights in the Book (00:08:48) Clarifying Deal Breakers (00:12:04) Understanding Relationship Needs (00:15:18) The Role of Fears in Dating (00:18:31) Dating Apps Discussion (00:20:07) The Impact of Dating Apps on Love (23:20) The Shift in Dating Dynamics (23:41) Boundaries with Technology (24:27) The Need for Healthy Relationships (27:48) Imagining Ideal Dating Apps (28:16) Cultural Changes in Dating Apps (29:39) Tips for Long-term Relationship Survival (30:19) Navigating Conflict in Relationships (31:59) Communication After Intimacy (33:10) Creating Sexual Energy (35:24) Understanding Breakups (36:45) Ethical Breakup Practices (39:05) The Value of Planning in Relationships (41:38) The Intimacy of Breakup Conversations (43:09) Listener Question on LinkedIn Outreach (44:02) Introduction and Connector Circle (00:46:04) Sliding into DMs (00:46:59) Approaching on LinkedIn (00:48:11) Navigating Online Connections (00:49:19) Promoting the Dates & Mates Method (00:50:16) Call for Listener Questions (00:51:13) Wrap-Up and Guest Teaser (00:52:06) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices