Forging Meaningful Connections in the Second Half of Life with Jonathon Aslay
Are you stuck in a cycle of disappointing relationships, repeating the same mistakes? In this episode of the True Love Knots Podcast, Maria is joined by dating coach Jonathon Aslay, who shares how over 100 internet dates and a tough divorce led him to a powerful realization: change starts with self-awareness. Jonathan dives into the importance of confronting fears, insecurities, and limiting beliefs to break free from unhealthy patterns. He challenges listeners to commit to true partnership, have honest conversations early, and surround themselves with supportive, grounded confidants. His message is clear: take responsibility for your emotional growth to create the lasting, fulfilling connections you deserve. Standout Quotes: “Self-awareness is the understanding of your fears, insecurities, negative patterns, limiting beliefs, and judgments towards others and yourself. It involves healing in all of those areas.” “Humans who come to the table with self-awareness can solve any problem. But if you go in with weak emotional maturity and poor relationship skills, it can create a very contentious dynamic.” “Your desires, capacity, and vision for a relationship must exceed your fears, pains, hurts, and, most importantly, your differences with another human being.” Key Takeaways: Identify your fears, insecurities, and limiting beliefs around relationships. Commit to personal development and healing these areas to become more self-aware. Before meeting someone in person, have intentional conversations to get clarity on their relationship goals and emotional maturity. Don’t assume compatibility based on chemistry alone. Define your vision for a committed, teamwork-oriented relationship. Communicate this clearly in your dating profile and conversations with potential partners. Cultivate a circle of competent confidants who can provide healthy, grown-up perspectives on your relationships, rather than just validating your desires. Reflect on your past relationship patterns. How can you break unhealthy cycles and approach new connections with emotional maturity and a commitment to teamwork? Episode Timeline: [00:02] Introducing Jonathon Aslay [02:36] Why Self-Awareness Shapes Every Relationship You Build [06:42] Midlife Dating Myths That Hold Women Back [09:08] The Real Power of Teamwork in Building Relationships [15:31] Mastering Dating Apps Without Losing Yourself [21:49] Emotional Maturity: The Secret to Long-Lasting Love [23:26] How to Overcome Fears That Sabotage Relationships [26:08] Why Strong Confidants Are Key to Relationship Success [28:05] Final Words on Love, Self-Growth, and Intentional Dating Learn more about Jonathon Aslay on his socials: Website: https://www.jonathonaslay.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaslay/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jonathon.aslay/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonathonaslay/ Twitter/X: https://x.com/JonathonAslay YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDOXs_34FF93o66Z-S0py1g Learn more about Maria Romano and True Love Knots at: Website: https://trueloveknots.com Email: [email protected] Phone: +1 702-501-4150
From Corporate Ladder to Chief Happiness Officer with Yvonne Trost
Are you chasing happiness but still feel unfulfilled? In this episode of the True Love Knots Podcast, Maria is joined by Yvonne Trost, a former corporate climber turned Chief Happiness Officer, who shares her transformation from outward success to true inner joy. After confronting the toxicity of her marriage and diving into yoga, meditation, and subconscious healing, Yvonne discovered that happiness isn’t external—it’s an inside job. She challenges us to release outdated beliefs, face our fears, and rewrite the subconscious patterns holding us back. Ready to unlock your limitless potential? Yvonne’s story inspires actionable steps to connect with your deepest desires and create a life of true fulfillment. Standout Quotes: “Your subconscious mind’s job is to keep you alive and safe, but it doesn’t care if you’re happy.” “By the time you’re 35, your subconscious mind is 95% in charge, and most of the logic it is using was written before you were 10.” “The change that you want is on the other side of action. It can’t just live in your thoughts.” Key Takeaways: Examine your subconscious programming and beliefs formed in childhood – are they still serving you? Consider how you can update your “software” to align with your current goals and values. Identify areas in your life where you may be staying in an unhealthy situation for the sake of others. Reflect on how this is impacting you and what steps you can take to prioritize your own wellbeing. Explore the role of mindfulness, compassion and curiosity in overcoming fear, judgment and self-pity. Practice these qualities to shift your perspective and energy. Assess the impact your energy and subconscious patterns may be having on those around you. Consider how you can model self-awareness and positive change for your loved ones. Episode Timeline: [00:02] Introducing Yvonne Trost [02:41] When a Child’s Question Sparked a Life-Changing Divorce [04:31] How Yoga and Meditation Rebuilt Yvonne’s Life in Months [05:47] Why Your Subconscious Mind Could Be Holding You Back [09:49] Breaking Free from Social Media’s Grip on Happiness [12:59] Unlocking Potential Through Hypnotherapy and Awareness [17:59] Designing a Fulfilling Life with the Limitless Life Program [20:51] How Self-Growth Transforms Relationships and Parenting [21:07] Yvonne’s Plans to Share Her Teachings with the World [22:59] Final Words on Growth, Happiness, and Taking Action Learn more about Yvonne Trost on her socials: Website: https://unlocklimitlessyou.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yvonne-trost/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yvonne.m.trost/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yvonnetrostandlimitlessyou/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/BradChandlerCoaching Learn more about Maria Romano and True Love Knots at: Website: https://trueloveknots.com Email: [email protected] Phone: +1 702-501-4150
Secrets to Successful Dating Over 50 with Deb Dutcher
Are you struggling to navigate the dating world, especially later in life? In this episode of the True Love Knots Podcast, Maria is joined by Deb Dutcher, who shares her powerful journey of reentering the dating scene after 30 years of marriage. After facing numerous challenges—including a second unhealthy relationship that left her feeling hopeless—Deb transformed her life. Now a certified health coach and dating expert, she helps women over 50 overcome their fears, build confidence, and attract fulfilling relationships. Through self-discovery, visualizing an ideal partner, and knowing when to walk away, Deb offers practical strategies to reclaim your worth and find true love. Ready to take the first step? Standout Quotes: “When you think you’re worthless, you dumb yourself down to stay with someone.” “I used therapy to stay in touch with who I am and to realize it wasn’t all on me. It helped me understand that I have something of value to bring to the table.” “It’s really about where you’re comfortable and the options available. I have too many clients who have spent a year working with the wrong people.” Key Takeaways: Reflect on your past relationships and identify patterns or behaviors that may have contributed to their demise. Use this self-awareness to guide your search for a healthier, more fulfilling partnership. Prioritize your financial independence and be willing to walk away from an unhealthy situation, even if it’s scary. Explore ways to build your skills and income to support yourself. Invest in yourself through coaching, counseling, or other personal development programs to rediscover who you are and what you truly desire in a partner. When venturing back into the dating world, be selective about the platforms you use and don’t be afraid to switch sites if you’re not getting the desired results. Avoid free dating sites that may be rife with scammers. Cultivate a vibrant, interesting life outside of your search for a partner. Pursue hobbies, travel, and activities that bring you joy and make you an attractive, well-rounded companion. Episode Timeline: [00:02] Introducing Deb Dutcher [02:25] Achieving Financial Freedom and Rebuilding Life at 68 [04:12] Navigating Dating Scams and Finding the Right Match [05:00] How Deb Found Love Again After Overcoming Trauma [09:59] Tools for Overcoming Abuse, Depression, and Healing [12:54] Eight-Week Dating Breakthrough Course for Personal Growth [18:46] Top Dating Sites for Singles Over 50 and Deb’s Tips [22:05] Final Tips for Staying Positive and Thriving in Life Learn more about Deb Dutcher on her socials: Website: https://findingmradorable.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debdutcher/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deb.dutcher/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/debdutchercoach/ Twitter: https://x.com/debdutcher Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Deb-Dutcher/author/B018JI6O2C Learn more about Maria Romano and True Love Knots at: Website: https://trueloveknots.com Email: [email protected] Phone: +1 702-501-4150
From Heartbreak to Healing: Navigating the Modern Dating World with Bev Mitelman
Are you struggling to find lasting love in today’s dating world? In this episode of the True Love Knots Podcast, Maria is joined by relationship expert Bev Mitelman, who explores how attachment styles, shaped by early childhood experiences, impact our ability to form deep connections. She shares her journey of dating after a long-term marriage and explains how patterns like secure, anxious, and avoidant attachment influence relationships. By unlearning unhealthy behaviors and recognizing emotional availability in partners, Bev offers practical insights to heal past wounds and build fulfilling connections. Ready to take control of your attachment style and find lasting love? Dive in for transformative advice. Standout Quotes: “Developing skill sets for dating and love relationships also spills into your professional life. People don’t realize that how you interact with yourself and others personally and professionally makes all the difference.” “I’m a strong proponent of doing personal work and understanding yourself to be the right partner for someone else. If you’re emotionally dysregulated, you can’t be a good partner to anyone.” “Picking a partner, regardless of your stage of life, is critically important to your mental health and well-being. This person could bring you tremendous joy, pleasure, and peace, or they could get you a lot of drama, chaos, and pain. So choose wisely.” “If you spot anything that seems off, it’s okay to take caution and ask about it. We all go through struggles, but if someone isn’t taking any steps to do the work, I would raise a red flag.” “Love isn’t blind; love is learned. We learn in childhood how to give and receive love, which forms distinct patterns in our minds that follow us into adulthood.” Key Takeaways: Identify your attachment style and understand how it shapes your relationships – both personal and professional. Explore resources to learn more about attachment theory. Take the time to reflect on your needs and non-negotiables in a partner before jumping into a new relationship. Clarity on what you value most can help you make wiser choices. Be cautious of getting involved with someone who is still emotionally entangled with an ex-partner, whether through ongoing legal battles, shared living situations, or unresolved feelings. Allow time for proper healing. Pay attention to red flags like emotional dysregulation, mental health struggles, and lack of personal growth work. These can indicate an unhealthy dynamic that may be difficult to sustain. Embrace the mindset that “love isn’t blind, love is learned.” Commit to the personal work required to unlearn unhealthy patterns and relearn healthier ways of giving and receiving love. Episode Timeline: [00:03] Introducing Bev Mitelman [02:02] Bev’s Journey from Personal Growth to Relationship Coach [04:33] Understanding Secure and Insecure Attachment Styles [08:26] How Attachment Styles Shape Relationships and Boundaries [08:44] Bev’s Dating Experience After Long-Term Marriage [12:51] Navigating the Complexities of Modern Dating [19:14] Spotting Red Flags and Building Stronger Relationships [22:33] Closing Thoughts and Future Topics Learn more about Bev Mitelman on her socials: Website: https://securelyloved.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bevmitelman/ Learn more about Maria Romano and True Love Knots at: Website: https://trueloveknots.com Email: [email protected] Phone: +1 702-501-4150
Why Relationships Fail: Key Lessons from Chaplain Felice Mathieu
Chaplain Felice shares his incredible journey from growing up as an orphan to becoming a marriage counselor, poet, and community leader. He opens up about his personal struggles and the lessons he has learned about love, marriage, and communication. With a focus on serving couples and relationships, Chaplain Felice offers valuable insights on how to navigate the complexities of human connections. Standout Quotes: “The number one mistake in all relationships is poor communication.” – Chaplain Felice “Don’t assume you’re right. We often believe our emotions or logic are facts, but they might not be.” – Chaplain Felice “Keep God at the center of your relationship; it steers everything.” – Chaplain Felice Key Takeaways: Strong relationships rely on effective communication. Recognizing your partner’s perspective is essential to avoid control battles. The merging of two people in a relationship should be about unselfishness and mutual care. Taking responsibility for your own flaws is critical in relationships. Accountability is a game-changer for personal growth. Aligning on values and maintaining God at the center of your relationship can help foster mutual respect and connection. Episode Timeline: 0:00:02 – Introduction and guest introduction 0:01:09 – Felice’s title and journey into chaplaincy 0:02:08 – Chaplain Felice shares his personal backstory 0:06:07 – The top mistake couples make: poor communication 0:08:18 – Tools for better communication in relationships 0:11:44 – The importance of listening and empathy 0:14:04 – The role of self-growth in maintaining a healthy relationship Resources: Visit Chaplain Felice’s website for tools on communication: https://marriagesharing.org/ Chaplain Felice on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/felicemathieu/
Breaking Free from Relationship Baggage with Junie Moon
Junie Moon, a shadow work expert and bestselling author, discusses how addressing hidden emotional baggage is the key to healthier relationships. She reflects on her journey through a difficult marriage, personal growth, and her work helping others release old patterns. Junie introduces listeners to the concept of shadow work and how it can help them unpack unconscious programming and heal from past wounds. Standout Quotes: “When we can let go of our baggage and come into the next relationship with a carry-on instead of a U-haul, we can have magnificent lives.” – Junie Moon “Love is risky business. But knowing who you are, and loving yourself, makes all the difference.” – Junie Moon “We don’t want pain, but what’s more painful is not knowing who we really are and what’s driving our behaviors.” – Junie Moon Key Takeaways: Shadow work is a transformative process that helps uncover and heal unconscious beliefs that affect relationships. Working through past trauma or childhood experiences can unblock the emotional barriers preventing people from fully embracing love. Learning how to have healthy conflict in relationships fosters deeper intimacy rather than pushing partners apart. Junie’s programs provide tools for releasing fear, developing healthy boundaries, and engaging in fulfilling relationships. Episode Timeline: 0:00:02 – Introduction and guest introduction 0:01:05 – Junie Moon’s backstory and her book, “Loving the Whole Package” 0:02:09 – The journey from a difficult marriage to shadow work 0:05:00 – The impact of past experiences on current relationships 0:05:46 – What is shadow work? 0:08:19 – How shadow work helps clients heal and transform 0:12:08 – The importance of learning healthy conflict resolution 0:17:52 – Junie’s contest for her Relationship Toolkit Program Resources: Junie Moon’s book “Loving the Whole Package” on Amazon: https://a.co/d/aSYzgxl Junie Moon’s Relationship Toolkit: https://midlifeloveoutloud.pages.ontraport.net/diypage
How Can AI Help You Find Love in the Modern World?
Eric McHugh is the visionary behind Data Inc, an innovative AI-powered dating app designed to enhance matchmaking by leveraging users’ digital footprints. In this episode, Eric shares insights into his app’s unique approach to creating meaningful connections and his broader vision for expanding human interactions beyond dating. Standout Quotes: “Dating apps often boil down to a ‘hot or not’ mentality—swipe left or right based on looks alone. This superficial approach doesn’t facilitate genuine connections, leading to the first problem of market skew.” – Eric McHugh “I think everyone’s happiest when they’re serving other people, and I think everyone’s the best at being themselves. If I try to be you, I can’t beat you at being you, because you’re number one. But if you try to be me, I’ll beat you at being me.” – Eric McHugh “I believe everything operates on energy, frequency, and vibration. Just as a radio picks up a specific station, your emotional state attracts people operating on similar frequencies. By embodying love, compassion, and empathy, you align yourself with positive energies and attract the right connections into your life.” – Eric McHugh Key Takeaways: Move beyond superficial matching systems by prioritizing genuine connections based on shared interests and digital interactions rather than just physical appearance. Challenge the “hot or not” mentality by focusing on deeper compatibility factors such as shared interests and values rather than just physical appearance. Be aware of how dating apps’ incentive structures can affect user experience. Seek out platforms that prioritize successful matches over user retention. Take advantage of AI technology to continuously refine matchmaking based on user interactions, creating a more tailored and effective dating experience. Episode Timeline: 0:00:02 – Introduction to Eric McHugh and Data Inc 0:03:30 – Eric’s Companies and AI-Powered Matchmaking 0:08:30 – Challenges and Solution in the Dating App Market 0:10:23 – Business Model and Future Plans 0:20:46 – User Experience and Privacy Concerns 0:21:14 – Closing Remarks and Future Projects Resources: Visit Data Inc. Website: Follow Eric McHugh on LinkedIn:
Navigate Life’s Challenges with Confidence with Jesse Oakley
Jesse Oakley is a longtime member of Toastmasters International who has leveraged the organization to improve his public speaking skills, find his wife, and even write a book called “Greetings, Happy People.” In this episode, he shares his inspiring stories and insights on how Toastmasters has impacted his personal and professional life. Standout Quotes: “If you are yourself, then you can realize that no matter what happens, whether the date goes well or not, it’s a learning experience.” – Jesse Oakley “Find a common interest or hobby with your partner, as that can be the bridge to connect and communicate with each other.” – Jesse Oakley “Communicating with one person can be just as difficult as speaking to a large audience.” – Jesse Oakley Key Takeaways: Find a local club to improve your public speaking and communication skills. Reflect on your own goals and dreams, and consider how you can turn them into a tangible project or book. When going on a first date, focus on being authentic and true to yourself, rather than trying to impress the other person. Embrace any rejections as learning opportunities. Identify a hobby, interest, or skill that you share with a potential partner, and use that as a way to build a stronger connection and facilitate better communication. Practice having difficult conversations, such as delivering tragic news to a loved one, by considering how you would approach the situation with empathy and composure. Episode Timeline: 0:00:02 – Introduction and guest introduction 0:01:54 – Jesse’s book “Greetings, Happy People” and the story behind it 0:04:52 – How Jesse met his wife Dana through Toastmasters 0:08:41 – Jesse’s experience serving on the Toastmasters International Board of Directors 0:12:33 – Advice on being authentic and embracing rejection on first dates 0:15:18 – Jesse’s journey into public speaking and Toastmasters 0:21:11 – The most challenging communication experience of Jesse’s life Resources: Greetings Happy People by Jesse Oakley on Amazon – https://www.amazon.com/Greetings-Happy-People-Jesse-Oakley/dp/1456819763 Visit Toastmasters International – www.toastmasters.org Jesse Oakley on LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesseoakleyiii/
Divorce & Money: Expert Tips to Protect Your Wealth with Jamie Lima
Divorce can be a financial minefield, leaving many feeling lost and overwhelmed. How prepared are you to navigate the complex world of asset division, hidden accounts, and lifestyle changes that come with ending a marriage? In this episode of the True Love Knots Podcast, Maria is joined by Jamie Lima, a certified divorce financial analyst. He sheds light on the often-overlooked financial aspects of divorce. Drawing from experience and expertise, he advises consulting a financial expert early, staying informed about your financial situation, planning for post-divorce needs, managing emotions, and much more! With divorce rates still high and financial abuse a real concern, are you equipped to protect your financial future? Standout Quotes: “You should know where every account is, which custodian it is with, which bank you’re banking with, what the retirement plans look like, and all that stuff.” “In divorce, you’re never going to have the same lifestyle; it’s always going to be different.” “The whole purpose of having alimony and us fighting for it is to give you that bridge to get to the other side and into your new life.” “The last thing you want to do is have to call little Johnny and little Susie and tell them that you’re going to be living on their couch at the age of 85.” Key Takeaways: Take inventory of all your financial accounts, assets, and debts. Make sure you know where everything is and have access to all relevant information. Fill out a “My Priorities” worksheet to clarify what’s most important to you in a potential divorce scenario, both for yourself and your spouse. Schedule a complimentary consultation with a certified divorce financial analyst to understand your options before involving attorneys or the court system. Join a divorce support group or online community to gain insights and ask questions anonymously. Create a post-divorce financial plan that accounts for your new lifestyle, future goals, and potential long-term financial needs. Episode Timeline: [00:03] Introducing Jamie Lima [03:49] Navigating Divorce Finances [08:31] Uncovering Hidden Assets in Divorce [12:51] Maintaining Your Lifestyle Post-Divorce [18:08] Smart Financial Planning During Divorce [22:01] Expert Financial Planning for Divorce Learn more about Jamie Lima on his socials: Website: https://allegiantds.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamielima Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/preparingfinanciallyfordivorce Broke Up, Not Broke(n) Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/broke-up-not-broke-n/id1743860479 Learn more about Maria Romano and True Love Knots at: Website: https://trueloveknots.com Email: [email protected] Phone: +1 702-501-4150
How to Find Your Masculine Presence and Improve Relationships with Jason Lange
In today’s evolving cultural landscape, simply being a “tough guy” who doesn’t show weakness isn’t enough. Both men and women are seeking partners who can lead powerfully while staying grounded in their humanity. But how do we get there? How do we balance masculine and feminine within, while bringing our best selves to our relationships? And how do we release what’s holding us back on a physical and emotional level? In this episode of the True Love Knots Podcast, Maria is joined by men’s coach Jason Lang. They will be talking about Jason’s personal journey to intimacy and emotional connection, and his work helping men cultivate presence, polarity, shadow integration for healthy relationships, and much more! Standout Quotes: “Many of us men don’t know how to do that because, historically, men have been rewarded for being disembodied.” “As a man, I have feminine energy, and as a woman, women have masculine energy. Part of what’s been shifting in our culture is the great rebalancing of these energies.” “What’s important is for there to be “juice” in a relationship. You have to play with those energies. It doesn’t always have to be the same, but you can experiment and find the balance that works for both partners.” Key Takeaways: Evaluate your level of presence and embodiment. How “in your head” are you, and how can you better connect to your physical body and emotions? Consider where you may be disconnecting from your feminine side or energy. How can you better integrate both masculine and feminine? Ask yourself what unresolved emotions you may be holding in your physical body. Make a effort to prioritize self-care, relationships and emotional intimacy beyond just work and tasks. Episode Timeline: [00:00] Introducing Jason Lange [04:42] Exploring men’s emotional expression and body connection [10:07] Personal development and relationship dynamics for men [15:20] Embodiment, polarity, and shadow work in men’s relationships [21:12] Emotional healing and growth through energy work and retreats for men Learn more about Jason Lange on his socials: Website: https://www.jasonlange.me Learn more about Maria Romano and True Love Knots at: Website: https://trueloveknots.com Email: [email protected] Phone: +1 702-501-4150