About unHinged - navigating the wild world of online dating
Swiping forever...no happily ever after? Join Mark and Stephanie as they dive into the world of online dating. They cover all the tragedies, difficulties and feel-good vibes that online dating brings. Plus they share how they met and navigated the early stages of matching with someone on a dating app. And they cover your dating stories and provide honest, down-to-earth feedback.
The Journey from Situationship to Relationship: unHinged ep06
In this episode, hosts Stephanie and Mark dive into the bumpy (and often baffling) road from situationships to proper relationships in the world of online dating.
They share their own rollercoaster story – from matching on a dating app, drifting apart, and somehow managing to find their way back to each other without the help of a cheesy rom-com montage.
Along the way, they chat about the joys of awkward conversations, figuring out “what are we?” moments, and when exactly you should unleash your family on someone new.
They also swap thoughts on being vulnerable, setting expectations, and why modern dating sometimes feels like a full-time job.
As they gear up to introduce each other to their nearest and dearest, they tackle the fun and games of age gaps and blended families with their usual mix of honesty and mischief.
00:00 Introduction and Initial Impressions
00:31 Reflecting on Past Relationships
00:43 Unhinged Episode Recap
01:53 Defining Situationships
03:07 Personal Experiences with Situationships
04:36 Navigating Relationship Labels
10:31 Season One vs. Season Two
12:19 Weekend Getaway Reflections
16:21 Holiday and Trust in Relationships
20:52 Communication and Relationship Progression
22:25 Discussing Meeting Each Other's Families
22:53 Meeting the Kids
23:43 Upcoming Family Gatherings
24:05 Reflecting on Past Conversations
25:36 The Dynamics of Online Dating
32:07 Reconnecting After a Break
34:27 The Importance of Vulnerability in Dating
42:45 Final Thoughts and Future Plans
7 Apr 2025
unBinged - let's talk about White Lotus Season 3
Slight departure from online dating in this episode, Stephanie and Mark chat about season 3 of White Lotus!
Mark had never seen it, while Stephanie is obsessed...
They explore the main characters, their dynamics, and significant themes such as power imbalance, spirituality, and rebirth. They also delve into standout moments, character arcs, and offer predictions for the season finale and future seasons. Additionally, they touch on fan theories, meme culture, and suggest dream cast members for the next season while debating potential settings for future episodes.
00:00 Introduction and Greetings
00:04 Introducing the New Podcast: Un Binged
01:13 Discussing The White Lotus
02:34 Diving into Season Three
05:23 Character Analysis: Rick and Chelsea
09:52 Production Insights and Behind the Scenes
21:44 Character Analysis: The Ratliff Family
34:50 Genuine Appreciation in Relationships
35:42 Age Gap Dynamics
36:11 Character Favorites and Dislikes
37:45 Subtle Character Development
38:55 Themes of Incest and Spirituality
40:23 Power Imbalance in Relationships
41:47 Rebirth and Character Evolution
46:50 Rick's Search for His Dad
51:23 Rick's Bangkok Adventure
01:02:45 Final Predictions and Theories
1 Apr 2025
Second Dates! Are They When the Magic Starts? - unHinged ep05
Are second dates the turning point in romantic pursuits?
Leave a comment about your online dating experiences and follow us on Instagram. (https://www.instagram.com/unhingedpodcast25/)
In this episode of unHinged, Stephanie and Mark discuss the significance of second dates, considering them more crucial than first dates for evaluating potential relationships.
They reflect on personal experiences, highlighting the added pressure and investment in preparing for a second date, particularly for women. They delve into the dynamics of their own second date, the importance of maintaining momentum, and the challenge of online dating's 'numbers game.'
Key topics include expectations, emotional investments, and transitioning from casual coffee dates to more engaging and revealing second dates.
00:00 Introduction to Second Dates
00:02 The Importance of Second Dates
01:55 Planning and Effort for Second Dates
04:04 Alcohol and Second Dates
04:31 Comparing First and Second Dates
05:14 Online Dating Experiences
06:57 The Numbers Game in Dating
07:36 Challenges of Second Dates
10:52 Failed Second Date Story
13:25 A Distracted Date with Dogs
14:00 No Chemistry and Over-Investment
15:15 The Numbers Game Dilemma
16:49 Navigating Dating Apps
19:05 Second Date Misunderstandings
22:54 Building Momentum and Connection
26:28 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell
24 Mar 2025
First Dates! How Awkard! - unHinged ep04
Imagine visiting the local dogging spot on your first date!
In this episode, Stephanie and Mark discuss their personal experiences and awkward moments from first dates, including initial impressions, dealing with nerves, and the challenges of online dating.
They share insights on handling the pressure of first dates, the importance of being honest and setting expectations, and navigating the transition from messaging to meeting in person.
They also talk about the benefits of establishing rapport beforehand and the mixed feelings that can come from extended communication prior to meeting. The episode provides practical advice on setting up second dates and gracefully handling cooling-off periods.
00:00 First Date Disasters
00:46 Awkward First Impressions
01:25 Navigating First Date Nerves
03:29 The Art of Small Talk
04:59 Setting Up the Second Date
06:57 Online Dating Realities
11:02 Unexpected First Date Adventures
22:21 Exploring Shuffleboard
23:07 The First Date: Coffee and Conversations
24:50 Memorable Moments and Misunderstandings
27:44 The Beach and the Dogging Spot
31:40 Reflections on First Dates
38:57 Concluding Thoughts and Listener Engagement
10 Mar 2025
Did you feel "the spark"? - unHinged ep03
How do you set the parameters for who you want to match with on dating apps? Or are you risking "filtering out" your dream person?
Stephanie and Mark explore everything from dating a guy who loves cats, dating widows, how far you're willing to travel and how you make time in your busy single-person life for the special someone.
Plus they open up on what happened on the lead up to their first date and how a misunderstanding nearly scuppered the whole thing.
And what about "the spark"? How do you know if you've felt it, and is it the same thing as "the slow burn"?
All this and much more on season 01 episode 03 of unHinged.
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Timestamps:
00:00 – Navigating Online Dating Challenges
02:59 – The Structure of the Podcast Seasons
05:57 – Profile Essentials in Online Dating
08:53 – Honesty in Dating Profiles
12:10 – Height and Its Impact on Dating Dynamics
14:53 – The Role of Pets and Star Signs in Dating
22:09 – The Love for Pets in Relationships
27:08 – Navigating Relationship Statuses
29:59 – The Complexity of Dating Apps
36:00 – Distance and Its Impact on Dating
40:02 – Job Perceptions in Dating
45:34 – Navigating Time and Relationships
48:35 – Finding Balance in Busy Lives
51:12 – The Importance of Communication
54:15 – Setting Boundaries in Dating
01:01:19 – The Role of Chemistry and the Spark
01:10:47 – Expectations and Realities in Dating
Takeaways
It's hard to meet people organically these days.
The podcast is structured into seasons focusing on different dating aspects.
Using dating apps should ideally lead to real-life connections.
Honesty in dating profiles is crucial for filtering potential matches.
Height can impact dating dynamics and personal preferences.
Pets can be a deal breaker or a point of connection in dating.
Star signs can serve as interesting conversation starters.
Navigating relationships in later life comes with unique challenges.
The importance of profile pictures and personal information in online dating.
Understanding personal preferences can enhance dating experiences. Most people love dogs, which can be a positive in dating.
Navigating relationship statuses can be tricky and sensitive.
Distance can significantly impact dating dynamics and compatibility.
Job perceptions can influence attraction and compatibility in dating.
Pets can be a deal breaker for some in relationships.
Being separated or divorced can complicate dating experiences.
Online dating filters may prevent meeting potential partners.
Communication about past relationships is crucial on dates.
Understanding each other's living situations can affect dating.
Flexibility in dating can lead to better connections. It's important to prioritize personal time while navigating relationships.
Finding balance in busy lives is crucial for healthy relationships.
Communication is key in expressing needs and expectations.
Setting boundaries can help avoid misunderstandings in dating.
Chemistry can develop over time, but the initial spark is significant.
It's okay to have interests outside of a relationship.
Efforts to maintain friendships are essential for personal well-being.
Video calls can ease the anxiety of first dates.
Expectations in dating should be managed realistically.
Personal growth is a vital part of navigating relationships.
3 Mar 2025
Worst Opening Line on a Dating App?
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Episode 2: Swipe Right or Run for Your Life?
In this episode of Unhinged, Mark and Stephanie wade through the chaotic world of online dating, sharing their own battle scars from the trenches of Hinge. From dodgy profile pictures (yes, we're looking at you, shirtless bathroom selfie guy) to the fine art of crafting an opening message that doesn’t scream desperation, they tackle the dos, don’ts, and dear-God-whys of modern dating.
They also dive into “the work”—that mysterious thing we’re all supposed to be doing on ourselves before we accidentally trauma-dump on a first date. Speaking of first dates, what makes one good? How do you know if it’s chemistry or just indigestion? Does speed dating still exist, or is it just Tinder on hard mode?
With plenty of self-deprecating honesty, and a few brutal truths about dating over 40, this episode is a must-listen for anyone trying to find love (or at least a semi-decent conversation) in the wild world of online dating.
Takeaways
Personal growth and self-reflection are crucial for successful dating experiences.
First dates can be overwhelming, and it's important to find a balance between authenticity and presentation.
Alcohol on first dates can cloud judgment and affect genuine connections.
'The work' means different things to different people, often involving self-care and emotional growth.
Effective opening gambits can significantly impact the success of online dating interactions.
Hinge is considered a more effective platform for meaningful conversations compared to others.
Understanding one's self-worth is essential in the dating process.
Navigating the complexities of online dating requires patience and adaptability. Profile pictures can significantly impact first impressions in online dating.
Group photos in dating profiles can create confusion about identity.
Including children in dating profile pictures raises red flags for potential matches.
Selfies and mirror pictures may indicate a lack of social engagement.
Dating preferences vary widely, and what works for one may not work for another.
Speed dating can be a daunting experience, especially for men.
The dating pool can feel limited for individuals over 40.
Self-awareness is crucial in understanding relationship dynamics.
Projection of personal desires can cloud judgment in relationships.
Communication is key to navigating dating challenges.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Online Dating Experiences
03:01 The Work: Personal Growth and Self-Reflection
06:00 Navigating First Dates: Strategies and Challenges
08:55 Understanding 'The Work' in Relationships
11:58 Opening Gambits: The Art of First Impressions
14:58 The Role of Dating Apps: Hinge vs. Others
23:58 Profile Picture Pitfalls
28:14 Dating Preferences and Red Flags
34:52 The Challenges of Speed Dating
36:44 Navigating Relationships Over 40
24 Feb 2025
Ghosted?! Good morning texts?! - unHinged Ep 01
Unhinged: Navigating Online Dating - The Pilot
In the pilot episode of Unhinged, Mark and Stephanie introduce themselves and share how they met on the dating app Hinge. They explore the challenges and intricacies of online dating—from initial hesitations and first impressions to the role of voice notes and the impact of ghosting. The duo also touches on common dilemmas raised on Reddit, such as the significance of “good morning” texts and handling rejections.
Episode Breakdown:
00:00 – Introduction to Mark and Stephanie
00:12 – The Reality of Dating Apps
00:33 – Welcome to Unhinged
00:56 – The Pilot Episode
01:22 – How We Met on Hinge
02:19 – First Impressions and Conversations
10:21 – Voice Notes and Building Connection
13:22 – Misunderstandings and Reconnecting
23:09 – Reflecting on Initial Interactions
24:46 – The Appeal of Arrogance
25:41 – The Importance of Self-Work
27:37 – Handling Rejections in Online Dating
30:46 – The Ghosting Phenomenon
34:33 – Navigating Dating Apps
41:07 – The Good Morning Text Debate
48:25 – Concluding Thoughts and Future Topics
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
4.0 / 5
1 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 8 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
16
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
0
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