Dating, Relationships, and Love (DRL) artwork

Dating, Relationships, and Love (DRL)

190 episodes - English - Latest episode: over 2 years ago - ★★★★★ - 182 ratings

Dating, Relationships, and Love Podcast (DRL) shares life-changing lessons and explores unique dating experiences covering the full spectrum of relationships. Join dating coach and matchmaker Tennesha Wood every week for unfiltered and engaging conversations with everyone from singles sick of swiping on Tinder, partners exploring open/poly relationships, happily married couples in Black Love bliss, divorcees starting from scratch, to sex workers juggling careers with romantic connections. Full of eye-openers across 185+ bingeable episodes, DRL gives invaluable advice through coaching sessions with real clients, industry experts, and Tennesha's Jamaican mom, who isn't afraid to tell it like it is. DRL is your how-to guide on being your authentic self, understanding relationships, and creating the love you desire.

www.drlpodcast.com

Personal Journals Society & Culture dating
Homepage Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Overcast Castro Pocket Casts RSS feed

Episodes

S4, E42: What (Black) Men Want

September 23, 2021 18:03 - 36 minutes - 29.6 MB

Gentlemen's Factory founder, Jeff Lindor, is sharing why Black men need safe spaces and what men talk about when women aren't around. He's also discussing why getting married at 25 turned out to be his biggest blessing.

S4, E41: Still Processing

September 16, 2021 15:55 - 11 minutes - 9.68 MB

Tennesha's back! She's sharing where she's been for the last year and why she's still processing 2020. 

S4, E40: How to Heal: Getting Over Your Ex and Understanding the Psychology of Breakups

December 10, 2020 03:58 - 53 minutes - 74 MB

Breakup Coach and Author Amy Chan is sharing what happens in the body and the brain during a breakup and how to work through the stages of heartbreak. She’s also sharing how her upbringing and the fantasy of the 'fairy tale' led her to ignore red flags that caused her own traumatic breakup. 

S4, E39: Dating After Divorce: How to Trust Yourself Again When You Chose Wrong the First Time

November 18, 2020 17:56 - 43 minutes - 59.1 MB

Donnetta got married at 24, and divorced her husband after years of lies and infidelity. Now 41, she's having trouble trusting her instincts and the men she dates. Tennesha coaches Donetta on defining her own needs, being upfront, and the power of positive thought and manifestation. Tennesha is also sharing some exciting news that will redefine how Black professionals meet and date.

S4, E38: Souled: How This Couple Met on Facebook and Fell In Love a Week Later

October 22, 2020 06:00 - 26 minutes - 36.2 MB

Kola and Kofie met on Facebook and instantly realized they were soul mates. They fell in love within a week, and Kola sold her house and moved to Georgia with her children to start a life together. The couple shares how working on themselves led them to love and why they have no doubts despite moving so quickly.  

S4, E37: Your Choosing, Not Attracting: How to Avoid Situationships

October 15, 2020 02:45 - 51 minutes - 71 MB

Tennesha and her boyfriend Chris answer listener questions and advise on preventing situationships, exposing screenshots from a cheater, and when men are actually ready to get married. The pair also share how they manifested each other and why they believe music perpetuates cheating.

S4, E36: WYD?: How to Communicate While Courting

September 30, 2020 18:34 - 14 minutes - 12.3 MB

Tennesha advises on how to handle the infamous "WYD" "good morning beautiful" and "we should hang out" texts that every woman has received from men. It's frustrating and wastes time, but men aren't the only ones to blame! She's sharing why it's happening and how you can end the ambiguity and establish quality communication while courting.

S4, E35: Two Is Better Than One: Why This Woman Took on a Second Husband

September 23, 2020 15:02 - 40 minutes - 32.4 MB

After ten years in a monogamous marriage, Kenya and her husband decided to embark on a new journey that began with seeing other people. Even after settling into a poly relationship, they still had to remove layers of conditioning that caused jealousy and anger. Kenya is sharing why she doesn't believe in monogamy, how she manages two husbands and other partners, and how her children view of their lifestyle.

S4, E34: Your Womb Is Not Your Worth: Why Motherhood Isn't Every Woman's Goal

September 16, 2020 22:54 - 42 minutes - 34.4 MB

Ryan was fairly certain she didn't want kids but assumed the urge might come someday. Although she never changed her mind, she met the love of her life and got married. Tennesha and Ryan discuss the stigmas associated with women that are childfree by choice. Tennesha also shares how a medical condition has not only made the topic of children a more imminent one but has also put her on the fence about having children of her own.  

S4, E33: Detanglements: A Divorce Attorneys' Advice on Staying Married

September 10, 2020 01:25 - 41 minutes - 56.7 MB

Divorce attorney Kimberly Cook is sharing the number one reason couples get divorced and the crucial conversations to have before getting married. She's also discussing why everyone needs to look into a pre-up and how to protect your future.  

S4, E32: More Than a Quarantine Bae: How Sliding Into His DM Led to Love Before First Sight

September 03, 2020 01:27 - 36 minutes - 50.3 MB

Renata noticed that Chris kept liking all her photos, so she slid into his DM to say hi. Soon they were talking for hours every day and fell in love. They are sharing why this relationship has shown them that love is possible at any stage and why they waited for two months to meet in person. Spoiler alert: Since recording this episode, Renata and Chris got engaged!

S4, E31: Sonia Says

August 26, 2020 14:45 - 41 minutes - 56.8 MB

Tennesha and mom Sonia answer listener questions and give advice about dealing with a monster in law, regrets about getting married too young, and a former player who 'thinks' he's ready to change. Sonia also wonders how Tennesha's OCD nature is impacting her relationship.

S4, E30: Boo'ed Up Abroad: Why This Women Left America to Date Internationally

August 13, 2020 03:00 - 34 minutes - 46.8 MB

After years of dating in the U.S., Bako felt like men weren't pursuing her, so she left to work and date abroad. She's sharing some of her hilarious tales from dating in Japan and dispelling some myths about Asian men. Tennesha and Bako also discuss how she's been able to separate sexual connections from emotional ones and why her happily ever will always include a suitcase.  

S4, E30: Boo'ed Up Abroad: Why This Woman Left America to Date Internationally

August 13, 2020 03:00 - 34 minutes - 46.8 MB

After years of dating in the U.S., Bako felt like men weren't pursuing her, so she left to work and date abroad. She's sharing some of her hilarious tales from dating in Japan and dispelling some myths about Asian men. Tennesha and Bako also discuss how she's been able to separate sexual connections from emotional ones and why her happily ever will always include a suitcase.  

S4, E29: How 22-Year-Old 'Marrying Millions' Star Bri Ramirez Found Love with a 62-Year-Old Millionaire

August 05, 2020 21:32 - 42 minutes - 58 MB

When 22-year-old Bri met her 62-year-old boyfriend Bill, friends and family were skeptical of the union and his circle did not initially accept her. Despite the 40-year age gap, the couple has forged a strong bond; Bri is now helping to parent his two youngest children and is open to having more in the future. She's sharing how she has learned to navigate his world and why she belives their age gap is not an issue.

S4, E28: Saved: How Ego Caused an Emotional Affair and Faith Ended It

July 30, 2020 03:49 - 31 minutes - 42.6 MB

Damilola was in a relationship with the woman he knew he would marry, but old friends still lingered, and eventually, he became entangled in an emotional affair. He’s sharing how his faith led him to come clean to his girlfriend and why he believes their connection is now stronger than ever.

S4, E27: A Thousand Words: How a photoshoot between strangers created an undeniable connection

July 22, 2020 13:37 - 16 minutes - 22.9 MB

Heather and Baxter answered a casting call for a "stranger session" photoshoot; something that was out of character for both of them. Their chemistry was clear in the photos that immediately went viral. They are sharing what really happened during the photoshoot and whether they have formed a romantic connection since then.

S4, E26: I Still Believe

July 16, 2020 02:48 - 51 minutes - 95.1 MB

After a secret wedding in the Dominican Republic, LaRhonda found out that her new husband had children she knew nothing about. She's sharing how she learned to trust her gut and let go of old baggage and why she has never stopped believing in the wonder and adventure of dating.    

S4, E25: Father Figure

July 09, 2020 15:25 - 53 minutes - 98.5 MB

Tennesha and boyfriend Chris discuss whether it's possible to overcome strained parental relationships and start fresh.

S4, E24: True Colors

July 02, 2020 13:51 - 49 minutes - 39.7 MB

'Too Much Soul' author Cindy Wilson was born in South Korea and adopted by a Black couple from Jackson, Mississippi. Cindy is sharing how she has navigated being of Korean descent but connected primarily to Black American culture while growing up in the deep south. We also discuss why Cindy had exclusively dated black men and how living in Atlanta has expanded her horizon. 

S4, E23: How to Deal

June 24, 2020 18:26 - 49 minutes - 89.8 MB

Psychotherapist Kenya Crawford is joining Tennesha to talk about racial trauma, being mindful of your own mental health, and how to handle workplace discussions around race. Kenya is also answering a listener question from a woman whose boyfriend refused to join her at a Black Lives Matter protest.

S4, E22: Call Your Mother

June 17, 2020 22:37 - 57 minutes - 105 MB

Tennesha and her mother Sonia discuss her experience growing up in Jamaica and transitioning to the racial inequalities of America. Sonia also shares how she dealt with the systemic racism in the education system and why she continues to fight in the face of “Minnesota nice.”

S4, E21: Dear White People

June 03, 2020 20:09 - 4 minutes - 6.69 MB

Dear White people- If you are ready to join the fight against racism and oppression in America, please start by examining your own beliefs, privileges, and interactions with Black people.  ~Tennesha

S4, E20: The Bright Side

May 28, 2020 07:34 - 49 minutes - 68 MB

Tennesha revisits three interracial relationships to help navigate the rough week we've all been through. www.drlpodcast.com/margaret-wilkerson-sexton/ www.drlpodcast.com/michael-and-meghan/ www.drlpodcast.com/kara-young-interracial-relationships/

S4, E19: Purposefully Fun

May 20, 2020 14:32 - 36 minutes - 50.1 MB

Although Dana is waiting on Mr. Right and believes in dating with purpose, she also believes that the wait should be fun. With age, Dana's non-negotiables have shifted and she's now dating people she didn't previously consider, including older men and white men. Dana also shares the hilarious tale of dating a man that was a few decades her senior.

S4, E18: Eggs on Ice

May 13, 2020 16:37 - 1 hour - 85.8 MB

Tennesha explores the process of egg freezing with Azella, Lauren, and Nubia, who have varying views on childbearing. The ladies also share the mental, emotional and financial impacts of the process and how it affected the way they date. They discuss whether it's possible for women to have it all, given all the sacrifices that motherhood brings and how gender roles also play into the equation.

S4, E17: How Lashaun Got Her Groove Back

May 07, 2020 03:00 - 54 minutes - 74.4 MB

Lashaun’s husband kept a secret from her and it eventually led to their divorce. After 15 years of marriage, she began dating again and had the time of her life, before meeting her new boo. She’s sharing how her divorce forced her to face her flaws and embrace her freedom.

S4, E16: Romantic Comedy

April 30, 2020 01:00 - 49 minutes - 67.7 MB

At 47, Omar was single and wanted children but hadn't met the one. Just as he was about to start the surrogacy process, he met his now-fiancée Shar on the street. Though 20 years his junior, they knew it was meant to be and got engaged just two months later. Omar is sharing why he's glad Shar came later in life and how he knew she was the one he had been waiting for.

S4, E15: Being Okay With Not Being Okay

April 23, 2020 03:00 - 57 minutes - 78.3 MB

Mika is sharing how she grieved the death of her boyfriend Reggie and overcame the unhealthy coping mechanisms she used to numb the pain. Eventually, therapy helped her to face the grief head-on. She also reveals how Reggie's words gave her the courage to date again.

S4, E14: What's a 'Fin Dom'?

April 15, 2020 22:19 - 36 minutes - 49.6 MB

Financial dominatrix, Mistress Marley introduces us to the world of kink and domination. She's also sharing why she left her corporate job to be a 'fin dom', where men pay to worship her. 

S4, E13: In the Moment

April 01, 2020 23:22 - 38 minutes - 53.5 MB

Tearra shares how becoming a mother has changed her perspective and taught her to live in the moment. She is also explaining how she learned to work through her traumas and how motherhood has impacted her relationship with her own mom.        

S4, E12: Pandatemic

March 26, 2020 03:22 - 51 minutes - 71.1 MB

Tennesha gives tips on how to date during a pandemic; from setting up a profile to creating a quarantine date. Chris and Tennesha also discuss why being apart during the formation of their relationship actually brought them closer together.

S4, E11: Social Distancing

March 18, 2020 22:17 - 55 minutes - 44.6 MB

Tennesha is joined by her boyfriend Chris to answer listener questions and discuss "quarantine and chill" etiquette, why a pandemic is not a good excuse to reach out to your ex, and how soon is too soon to share your phone passcode with your significant other.

S4, E10: (Nice) Guy Meets Girl

March 12, 2020 02:53 - 44 minutes - 36.1 MB

Essah is sharing how she learned to recognize what she needed instead of what she wanted and how it lead her to her husband. Tennesha and Essah also discuss how women's insecurities cause nice guys to finish last.        

S4, E09: Throuple

March 05, 2020 04:00 - 56 minutes - 45.5 MB

Married couple Dillion and Venza are sharing how they formed a partnership with their fiance Mari and why jealousy has not impacted their relationship. The throuple is also discussing how friends and family reacted to the decision to live a polygynous life, why they plan to add more women to their tribe, and why they believe polygyny is a part of human nature.   

S4, E08: Pure Potential

February 27, 2020 04:00 - 57 minutes - 46.3 MB

At 34, Arhonda felt the pressure to get married and start a family. Soon into the marriage, she realized that she ignored red flags and married her husband based on his potential. She's sharing why she waited almost 10 years to end the marriage and how divorcing gave her the freedom to explore what she really wants.

S4, E07: Sister Sister

February 19, 2020 18:01 - 30 minutes - 24.6 MB

Erin never knew her father and felt like she chose the wrong men to fill the void, and ended up in an abusive relationship. She is sharing why she's has gotten a new lease on life after meeting the sister she never knew.

S4, E06: The Happy Award

February 12, 2020 16:56 - 43 minutes - 35.5 MB

Elisha is sharing how taking time off her career gave her the freedom to just be and find "her most mature relationship" and why she actually enjoys being in a long-distance partnership. Tennesha and Elisha also discuss how the choice to delay marriage and children have afforded other opportunities.

S4, E05: Past the Past

February 06, 2020 04:43 - 59 minutes - 47.7 MB

Fatima lost her mother to suicide, at just two years old, and had no relationship with her father. The trauma of her past and never witnessing a successful relationship brought difficulty in her own relationships. She’s sharing how she learned to accept her past and gain strength from it. Fatima is also discussing why she believes it's important to keep your ego and your pride.

S4, E04: Clearing the Space

January 29, 2020 23:24 - 52 minutes - 42.3 MB

After leaving an 11-year toxic relationship, Eliana decided to clear all things from her life that no longer served her; including one-sided friendships and a career that brought her no joy. She is sharing her journey to self-love, empowerment and how becoming a plus-sized model has helped her to define her destiny.  

S4, E03: Sonia Says

January 23, 2020 04:00 - 29 minutes - 23.9 MB

Tennesha's mom, Sonia, shares wisdom on what to look for in a partner and answers listener questions. She also discusses why she chose the quiet guy despite being courted by so many eager men.

S4, E02: The Rebuild

January 15, 2020 23:06 - 49 minutes - 39.8 MB

After nearly 20 years together, Tracy and her husband have been faced with infidelity and family tragedies; they reached a breaking point and decided to tear it all down and rebuild their marriage on their own terms. Tracy is sharing how they found new ways to deal with old issues and why they are honest with their kids about the work it takes to maintain a happy marriage. 

S4,E01: Seven Year Itch

January 09, 2020 04:15 - 55 minutes - 44.8 MB

Seven years into her relationship, Glaiza is debating about whether she should change habits her boyfriend doesn't like in order to get a ring.  -------------------------------- This episode is sponsored by Booknotes. Try a free 7 day free trial here: https://booknotes.page.link/dating

S3, E46: For My Lovely Listeners

December 19, 2019 03:34 - 4 minutes - 4.13 MB

Tennesha gives thanks for 2019.

S3, E45: Positive Vibes Only

December 12, 2019 01:18 - 48 minutes - 39 MB

Lauren shares her journey to sex positivity and why she believed that she had to suppress her sexuality in order to find a good man. We also discuss how she learned to detach from the expectations and opinions of others when it comes to her sexual fluidity and desires.    

S3, E44: A Rough Year

December 05, 2019 04:52 - 46 minutes - 37.6 MB

Tennesha sits down with boyfriend Chris and shares why she feared losing her independence and how it led to a challenging long-distance relationship. They also answer listener questions from a guilty cheater and a frustrated app dater.  

S3, E43: All Tied Up

November 21, 2019 00:02 - 50 minutes - 41.1 MB

Erotic visual artist Sir Dashington is sharing how he creates intimacy and taps into a woman's body without sex and how he helps couples form a stronger bond through the work he was called to do. He is also giving advice on how to approach the conversation if you are not being sexually pleased in your relationship.    

S3, E42: It's a Red Flag Not a Bird

November 14, 2019 02:42 - 51 minutes - 41.9 MB

Lucy met a guy, they fell in love, and then things started to change. He began isolating her from her friends and family and it slowly escalated into a toxic and emotionally abusive relationship where he threatened to expose private photos. Lucy is sharing how she took matters into her own hands to regain control and how she now spots and avoids red flags.

S3, E41: That World

November 06, 2019 22:23 - 51 minutes - 41.9 MB

Acclaimed author, Margaret Wilkerson Sexton, is sharing how she navigates being in an interracial marriage and the shifting racial dynamics throughout their 18-year partnership, including how becoming parents have changed the couples’ interactions with white friends. Margaret is also giving a preview of her latest book, The Revisioners, and discussing the link between her identity and her writings that interweave slavery, segregation, race and the lingering effects we still face today.

S3, E40: Speaks So Well

October 31, 2019 02:39 - 44 minutes - 36.1 MB

Tennesha and Rhonda are giving advice on how to let someone know when you’re not interested; while also debating whether it's okay to let partners know when they have a habit that bothers you. Rhonda goes on to share memorable dating adventures, including the awkward date that followed meeting a guy at a swingers club.