Join us on this heartfelt journey where we navigate the delicate dance of crushes within committed relationships. Listen in as we openly discuss the natural phenomenon of feeling attracted to others, even when we're in monogamous or non-monogamous partnerships. Our very own Tiffany bravely shares her personal encounters with crushes over the years, sparking a candid conversation about the importance of transparency and communication. We dissect the intricacies of these feelings, from fleeting attractions to more profound interests, and how they can actually strengthen the bonds of trust and authenticity in our relationships. Whether it's the excitement of a new crush or the deeper exploration of our desires, we embrace the complexities of love and connection.

Join us on our latest journey as we explore the nuanced differences between self-awareness and self-accountability, particularly in the context of making apologies. We open up about our personal growth and the pivotal moments that taught us the importance of not just recognizing our mistakes, but also taking concrete steps to prevent them in the future. Listen in as we reflect on how our apologies have evolved from mere words to actions backed by genuine change, and how parenthood and the pandemic have further shaped our understanding of what it means to truly own our actions within our relationships. Emotions can be complex, and in this conversation, we unpack the tendency to hide vulnerability behind anger. We discuss the importance of owning and accepting our feelings, not only for our healing but also for the health of our relationships. Hear us delve into the transformative power of empathy, vulnerability, and honest communication, and learn how these can foster a deeper connection with our partners. Our candid discussion reveals how validating emotions rather than dismissing them can create a space for more meaningful interactions and mutual growth.

Unlock the secrets to a memorable first date that paves the way for a potential future romance! On this journey, we've got you covered with expert advice from our Host Moe Ari, a licensed marriage and family therapist and the Love and Connection Expert at Hinge, ensuring your dating game is both authentic and impeccably mannered. This episode is all about finding that sweet spot—where genuine self-presentation meets the finesse of a well-executed date plan. You'll learn the importance of feeling your best to leave a lasting impression, and the subtle courtesies that can make or break the potential for a second meetup. From personal hygiene to the thoughtful touches that show you care, we're equipping you with the tools to approach dating with grace and self-awareness.

Bring levity and respect to your dating adventures as we discuss the role of humor in sparking connection without crossing lines. Discover the importance of respecting personal boundaries and showing genuine interest through active listening and non-verbal cues. This episode isn't just talk; we'll share actionable tips inspired by Hinge's distraction-free dating guide, and the power of a follow-up to secure that next encounter. Whether you're fresh to the dating scene or simply seeking a refreshed perspective, tune in for an engaging conversation that promises to reshape your approach to respectful and successful dating.

Unlock the secrets to a memorable first date that paves the way for a potential future romance! On this journey, we've got you covered with expert advice from our Host Moe Ari, a licensed marriage and family therapist and the Love and Connection Expert at Hinge, ensuring your dating game is both authentic and impeccably mannered. This episode is all about finding that sweet spot—where genuine self-presentation meets the finesse of a well-executed date plan. You'll learn the importance of feeling your best to leave a lasting impression, and the subtle courtesies that can make or break the potential for a second meetup. From personal hygiene to the thoughtful touches that show you care, we're equipping you with the tools to approach dating with grace and self-awareness.

Bring levity and respect to your dating adventures as we discuss the role of humor in sparking connection without crossing lines. Discover the importance of respecting personal boundaries and showing genuine interest through active listening and non-verbal cues. This episode isn't just talk; we'll share actionable tips inspired by Hinge's distraction-free dating guide, and the power of a follow-up to secure that next encounter. Whether you're fresh to the dating scene or simply seeking a refreshed perspective, tune in for an engaging conversation that promises to reshape your approach to respectful and successful dating.

Could unlocking the secrets of nonviolent communication be the missing link to deeper connections in your relationships? Join us as we journey through the soul-enriching practice of NVC, pioneered by Marshall Rosenberg, and peel back the layers on how it can revolutionize your interactions with others. With personal anecdotes and revelations, we delve into the art of intentionality in conversation, and the profound impact of building a communication style rooted in empathy and compassion. You're not just listening to a discussion; you're stepping into a transformative experience that aligns perfectly with our mission to embody the very essence of hashtag love goals.

Join us as we reflect on the profound transition from the 'me' to the 'we' in relationships! Hear our candid discussion on the importance of maintaining individuality within a relationship, especially through significant life transitions. We examine the milestones that have cemented our bond, such as moving in together, top surgery, name changes, and the journey through IVF and pregnancy. The episode highlights the intricate dance of preserving one's sense of self while fostering a united front as a couple and, eventually, as a family. With a focus on open communication and community support, we wrap up with insights on the necessity of balancing togetherness with personal interests and sacred spaces. Tune in for an intimate look at our own relationship evolution and take away valuable insights for nurturing your own partnerships.

Join us on a heartfelt exploration as Tiffany shares her transformative spiritual journey as a black queer woman. This episode takes you through the intersection of identity, faith, and love, resonating with the universal desire for belonging and authenticity. Listen in as Tiffany opens up about her inspiring photoshoot, which sets the stage for a wider discussion on ancestral spirituality within the African American community.

We tackle the complex challenges of reconciling traditional religious teachings with personal beliefs, especially in the context of the LGBTQ+ community, and how Tiffany courageously steps out of the 'spiritual closet' to embrace her true self. Embark on a candid conversation about the role of the black church in shaping our early spiritual lives and the poignant struggles when one's evolving identity seems at odds with established doctrines.

We reflect on the emotional toll of seeking acceptance within religious spaces, sharing the difficult choice to leave the church in pursuit of an inclusive spiritual home. This chapter is an affirmation of the search for an authentic connection to faith, highlighting the emotional liberation and growth that comes from finding a community that embraces us fully, in all our complexity.

As the calendar flips to a new page, we're all too familiar with the firework burst of resolutions that fizzle out long before the year's first quarter. But what if we could transform those bright but fleeting sparks into a steady, warm glow that lights our way throughout the year? Join us as we navigate the nuanced terrain of setting New Year's goals with intention, planning, and a dash of daring. Instead of the usual resolutions that gather dust, we'll guide you through crafting goals that resonate with your core values and true desires, avoiding the trap of low aspirations or the echo chamber of societal pressures.

Every family has that one holiday tradition that sticks out in memory—the one where Uncle Joe always burns the turkey, or where grandma's secret punch recipe turns the evening into a laughter-fueled affair. Our latest episode is a heartfelt homage to those moments, capturing the essence of holiday celebrations from baking sessions filled with the sweet scent of cookies to the uproarious joy of games and crafts. We're taking you through an exploration of the diverse customs that brighten the season, sharing our own family favorites, and discussing how these rituals create a sense of belonging and authenticity. It's all about the simple pleasures that deepen our connections and make the holidays memorable.

Join us as we throw back the curtains on a magical movie night and recount the competitive spirit of Sandy's (Moe’s Mom) Christmas games. Imagine curling up with a classic film or engaging in good-natured family feuds that keep everyone on their toes. We don't just talk about our own rituals; we dive into the essence of creating memorable experiences that bring people together. From the bustling kitchen prep with all hands on deck to the communal joy found in simple pleasures, this episode is an invitation to make the season your own. So, pour yourself some punch, cut yourself some slack, and let our stories inspire your holiday spirit.

In this engaging episode, we also explore how to navigate tricky family dynamics during the holidays. From estrangement and loss to issues surrounding acceptance of one's sexual orientation or gender identity, we touch on a myriad of scenarios that can lead to feelings of disconnect. Setting boundaries, making intentional choices about who to share space with, and learning to embrace differences within families are among the topics we delve into. We believe in the power of acceptance and understanding, and we aim to arm our listeners with tools to foster these within their own families, biological or chosen.

Lastly, we shift gears to a lighter topic - potlucks! Listen to us as we share our personal experiences and preferences with potlucks, including our love for store-bought items and aversion to casseroles. We also discuss alternative ways to celebrate with chosen families beyond traditional gatherings. Sprinkled with humor and heart, this episode is an invitation to redefine family, embrace diversity, and navigate the holiday season with love, understanding, and intentionality. Join us and let's journey together towards becoming our own #lovegoals.

What if the holiday season, a time filled with joy and celebration, also brings a wave of grief and loss? How do we navigate this tricky landscape? Join us, Moe Ari and Tiffany, on an emotional journey as we share our experiences with grief during the holiday season, reflecting on the impact of losing loved ones and dealing with challenges like health issues, job loss, financial struggles, and more. This isn't just about death but mourning the loss of what once was - an old friendship, a dream, a lifestyle.

Grief is a unique and personal experience, often manifesting in unexpected ways. Amid the holiday cheer, it can feel isolating and overwhelming. We explore these emotions, sharing lessons from our own experiences and offering insights on how to support those who might be wrestling with similar feelings. We discuss the power of creative outlets, the importance of acknowledging our grief, and the need to be sensitive toward others who might be going through a tough time this season.

In the end, it's all about love - love for oneself and love for others. As we extend our warm wishes for the holiday season, we want to remind you that you're never alone in your grief. We urge you to take care of yourself and be understanding and patient, both with yourself and others around you. Remember to rate and review our podcast, and please reach out with any questions or suggested topics for future episodes. We're here for you, and we're all in this together.

Are the holidays leaving you feeling more 'bah humbug' than 'ho ho ho'? Join us, Moe Ari and Tiffany, as we shine a light on this often-overlooked aspect of the holiday season. We lay bare our personal struggles with the financial and emotional strains that come with creating a magical holiday experience for our loved ones, especially for our daughter, Nova. We also touch upon the added pressure of juggling different family traditions and the challenge of creating our own. Through it all, we emphasize the importance of being present and living in the moment.

Have you ever felt the weight of loneliness amidst the merry clinking of holiday glasses? We explore this poignant facet of holiday stress as we delve into the complexities of managing multiple traditions. The financial and emotional toll, the struggle to balance family traditions, and the loneliness that could arise from the lack of holiday celebrations or distant family members - we discuss it all. We also recommend setting a budget and considering alternative gift-giving strategies to alleviate some of these stressors.

But wait, there's more. We address the unique holiday stress experienced by queer individuals. From the anxious anticipation of family reunions to the isolation from a lack of acceptance, we share real-life experiences and offer some coping mechanisms. We discuss the importance of allies in buffering uncomfortable situations and providing much-needed support. We wrap up with a talk on self-care, setting intentions, and maintaining relationships during the holiday hullabaloo. Don't miss this enlightening conversation. Tune in and share your thoughts with us on social media or Spotify. After all, aren't the holidays all about sharing and connecting?

Remember your first love? The fairy tale weddings, the happily ever after, the fantasies we all grew up with? We're shaking things up on this special Be Your Own #LoveGoals Podcast episode. Moe Ari and Tiffany dive into non-traditional marriage structures, sharing their personal experiences and how their diverse upbringings and cultural heritage have shaped our perceptions of matrimony. Prepare for a refreshing perspective on marriage and family creation outside the norm that might challenge your beliefs.

Ever wondered why marriage? What does it mean to different people? It’s a complex question, and we’re getting down to the heart of it. We enlighten you on everything from the legalities involved in marriage, the richness of creating meaningful rituals, to the spiritual fulfillment some derive from the union. We unravel why the paperwork and legal requisites sometimes feel distant from the love shared between two people. This will be a crucial discussion for anyone considering tying the knot and seeking to understand the nitty-gritty of marriage.

Ever wonder how self-accountability plays a critical role in your relationships? Brace yourselves for a candid conversation with Tiffany, who takes us through her transformative journey of embracing self-accountability in her relationship with Moe Ari. She paints a vivid picture of her initial resistance to individual therapy, a humorous expectation that the couple's therapy would only address her partner's issues, and her eventual realization of the impact of her personal history on her current relationship. This episode is a treasure trove of insights, as Tiffany unveils how individual therapy has shaped her understanding of self-accountability.

Further, we delve into how self-accountability forms the bedrock of healthy relationships. It's all about taking responsibility for your own feelings and emotions, and Tiffany's experience brings this to light with a dash of humor and a boatload of wisdom. Learn how intentional communication and active listening are not just buzz words, but essential tools for self-growth. We also underscore the importance of therapists who are capable of understanding and celebrating queer couples and their core relationships. By the end of this episode, Tiffany's journey of self-accountability may inspire you to evaluate and enhance your own.

As we navigate this emotional landscape, we'll also touch upon the spiritual aspects of love and how this influences the dynamics of our relationships. We unravel the intertwined relationship between love and grief, emphasizing the need to fully experience the pain in order to move past it. To wrap it up, we share practical tips and tools on how to respectfully honor past relationships and open up to the possibility of loving again. Get ready to explore the complexities of love, grief, and the courage it takes to move on in this deeply personal episode.

We've all been there: Love lost, hearts shattered, and the daunting task of picking up the pieces while still nurturing the love that never really vanishes. Join us, Moe Ari, and Tiffany, as we come together to discuss the challenging yet necessary journey of moving on from exes. Drawing from personal experiences, we aim to shed light on the enduring nature of love after a relationship ends, reminding you that love doesn't disappear, it simply transforms.

As we navigate this emotional landscape, we'll also touch upon the spiritual aspects of love and how this influences the dynamics of our relationships. We unravel the intertwined relationship between love and grief, emphasizing the need to fully experience the pain in order to move past it. To wrap it up, we share practical tips and tools on how to respectfully honor past relationships and open up to the possibility of loving again. Get ready to explore the complexities of love, grief, and the courage it takes to move on in this deeply personal episode.