Dating Made Simple on The It's Just Dinner Podcast

Join Tom, Bob, and Harley as they share hilarious and cringe-worthy bad date stories that reveal some of the biggest dating red flags. From the unforgettable “Shart Shorts” disaster to an overzealous first-date sermon, these stories are equal parts shocking and entertaining. Along the way, the gang breaks down what went wrong and offers practical insights on respecting boundaries, reading social c...

In this episode of the Dating Made Simple podcast, we sit down with BYU professor Brad Wilcox to talk all things modern dating. From young adult dating and college dating to LDS dating, this conversation is packed with real dating advice, practical dating tips, and honest relationship advice. We cover dating etiquette, dating confidence, overcoming dating anxiety, and building healthy relationship...

In this episode, Diana Holcher shares fresh, fun ideas tomake dating way less awkward and way more enjoyable. She breaks down mixer dates as a chill, low-pressure way to meet people and build real connections. The conversation dives into why communication and social skills actually matter, how cultural differences shape dating, and what good etiquette looks like today. Diana also tackles the LDS d...

Join Tom, Bob, and Harley on this episode as they dive intothe colorful and sometimes confusing world of modern dating terminology. From breadcrumbing and zombieing to lovebombing , sliding in , and red flags , they unpack the language shaping today’s relationships. They explore what these terms really mean, why they’ve become so common, and how social media and dating apps have influenced the way...

This week on Dating Made Simple , Tom, Bob, and Harley answer questions from their listeners about some of the biggest dating dilemmas. They talk about how to start a conversation without overthinking it, whether first dates should be casual or formal, and why respect and etiquette still matter. The group discusses online dating safety, compares dating apps with traditional ways of meeting people,...

In this episode of Dating Made Simple , Tom, Bob, and Harley dive into real talk about dating, engagement, and relationships with two BYU Cougars football players and their batter halves. The couples talk about how they met, what their first dates were like, how they got engaged, and the extra pressures that come with dating a student-athlete. Along the way, they open up about expectations, dealin...

In this episode of Dating Made Simple , hosts Tom andBob are joined by guest host Harley to break down “Hot Take Dating” and why being real about your opinions—especially controversial ones—can save you a lot of future drama. They mention that differing opinions can be a deal breaker,but why understanding someone’s core values matters even more than winning a debate. The crew also unpacks dating t...

In this episode, hosts Tom and Bob break down Robert Walz’s article “3 Keys to a Lifelong Loving Relationship” in a way that actually makes sense for Gen Z dating and relationships. Drawing from years of counseling experience, they unpack the three non-negotiables for lasting love: selflessness, owning your mistakes and asking for forgiveness, and real communication (not just texting “k”). The con...

What if dating didn’t have to feel so overwhelming? Thisepisode challenges the idea that every date needs to be perfect—or lead directly to marriage. Tom, Bob, and Harley explore how social media, dating apps, and cultural pressure have turned dating into a comparison game instead of a process of connection. They talk about why people avoid second dates, how fear disguises itself as pickiness, and...

In this episode, we dig into why so many Gen Z men are hesitant to approach women—and it all comes down to one word: creepy . A staggering 69% of men fear being labeled creepy, and 44% say that fear actively stops them from interacting with women at all. We break down what “creepy” behavior actually looks like—think controlling tendencies, not taking no for an answer, and clinginess—and why awaren...

We’re bringing back one of our most popular episodes because the advice in it is just too good not to hear again! In this replay, Kristen Metzger from Latter-Day Matchmaker joins us to talk about the art of matchmaking and dating. Kristen is an expert at helping you prepare for that all-important moment of asking someone out. She shares practical guidance on what to say, what to wear, where to go,...

In this episode, we hang out with Utah's Governor SpencerCox and First Lady Abby Cox. They kick things off by sharing their dating and courtship story and then shift to more serious topics, like the loneliness epidemic and the health risks associated with being alone. They discuss the effects that phones and social media have on human interaction, emphasizing the importance of getting out and...

This week’s Dating Made Simple takes a lighter but honest look at a heavy topic: the loneliness epidemic. We break down what loneliness really is, how it differs from isolation, and why half of U.S. adults say they’ve struggled with it. You’ll hear surprising stats, personal stories, and the very real health risks tied to chronic disconnection—heart disease, stroke, even depression. But it’s not a...

In this episode, relationship coach Kristi Reeves dives into the power of vulnerability in dating and relationships. She shares why true connection starts with the courage to be open, honest, and real—first with yourself, and then with others. Kristi explains that healing and healthy love aren’t about convincing someone you’re lovable, but about showing up authentically so connection can grow natu...

Dating after 40? You're not alone—and you're not too late. With nearly half the U.S. population single and 70% of dating app users finding genuine connections, it's time to embrace the swipe! We break down why you should be on three apps, how to keep your photos honest (no 10-year-old selfies!), and why your first meetup should always be “just dinner.” It turns out that “Just dinner” i...

In this episode, Tom and Bob dive into the world of datingover 40, unpacking the highs, lows, and hilarious moments that come with it. They discuss the article 20 Tips to Make the Dating Experience Smoother , offering their takes on advice like "Own Your Age," "Stay Open Minded," "Listen More Than You Talk," and "Give Online Dating a Chance." With their usua...

In this episode, we’re back with Special Guest Ali for Part 2 of answering your questions from our Crispy Cones event! We dive into the world of dating, tackling big questions like: Is a movie a good idea for a first date? How long should you wait to date after a breakup? What if your date isn’t funny? Plus, we discuss the best ways to turn someone down and how to handle rejection like a pro. Get...

Get ready for a wild ride in this episode as we’re joined by our special guest, Ali, who’s reading off questions from fans who pulled up to our live event at Crispy Cones —Provo’s legendary ice cream shop serving European-inspired cones that are as tasty as they are unique. We're answering questions like: “How do I get into dating if I don’t want a boyfriend?”, “What do you guys want instead o...

This week, we hit the jackpot with the incredible Julie Spira —an award-winning dating coach, online dating expert, and internationally bestselling author! If you’re in the dating game (or thinking about jumping in), Julie’s got the insider scoop you NEED —from do’s and don’ts to pro tips that’ll help you swipe smarter. Oh, and did we mention? She loves online dating! Don’t miss this one—it’s pack...

Kristen Metzger from Latter-Day Matchmaker joins us to share her expertise on the art of matchmaking and dating. With years of experience, she offers practical advice on how to confidently ask someone out, what to wear, where to go, and how to make a great impression. Her insightful tips will help you navigate the dating world with ease, whether you're reentering the scene or simply looking to...

Join us for an engaging discussion on dating etiquette and proper behavior with special guest, etiquette expert Candilyn Newell. Navigating the rules and expectations of dating can be challenging, but Candilyn is here to guide you through it all. She’ll share expert insights on what to say on a date, the proper way to get into a car, how to open doors, where to sit at a restaurant, and even dining...

Macie, Amanda, and Jenna spent three months hosting epic group dates to bring people together and make dating fun again! From a Wimbledon-themed pickleball night to a chaotic murder mystery, gingerbread house showdowns, and wholesome apple picking, they created unforgettable memories. But just wait until you hear about the infamous “gaslighting date” (trust us, it’s not what you think!). Tune in a...

In this episode, Sam Whitney, author of How to Date Authentically: End the Dating Game and Find Lasting Love , explores the shift from dating to impress to dating for genuine connection. Sam shares insights from his book, highlighting the importance of moving away from the pressure of "getting it right" and instead focusing on being authentically engaged with others. He discusses how authentic dat...

In this episode, we’re joined by matchmaker Becca Sargls to discuss how self-love and acceptance are essential for both feeling and being attractive. Becca shares insights on reframing rejection, celebrating the bravery of dating, and embracing the unique traits that make us who we are. She breaks down how hobbies, habits, and community can transform your confidence and dating life. Becca also cha...

In this episode, matchmaker and award-winning TV host Michelle G. joins us to discuss the concept of “cuffing season.” This time of year, between fall and spring, often leads us to seek out a partner to hold hands or snuggle up with. But before jumping into a relationship, Michelle reminds us to pay attention to red flags and ask important questions, like "Is this person present?" and "What do the...