Content warning: This episode is for adults (18+) only.
I’ve been thinking a lot lately about the chaos that is dating — the frustrations, the patterns, the disappointments, the occasional glimmers of hope — and how many of us, especially in the straight dating world, seem to be stuck in this endless loop of confusion.
So it got me wondering:
Are these struggles — the ghosting, the miscommunication, the emotional unavailability — just part of the straight dating experience?
Or is this something that crosses the board, no matter who you love or how you identify?
Is it possible that dating is actually easier — or at least different — in the queer community?
Or is it just a whole different set of challenges?
I didn’t want to make assumptions. So, I did what any curious, slightly frustrated person would do:
I called up a few of my queer friends — people I trust, who live and love honestly — and I asked them some questions. I have MANY questions.
Let’s get into it. Podcast page on Jacaranda FM
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51:33
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51:33
What is our Problem? (with Danny Painter)
*Content warning*
In this episode, we cover topics including sex, mental health, grief, cannibalism, and a whole lot more. So if you're listening around little ears—or you’re not in the mood for some very real, very raw conversation—maybe hit pause and come back when the time’s right. This episode is for adults (18+) only.
Now, onto the good stuff.
In this episode, I’m joined by one of my favourite humans on the planet: Danny Painter.
Danny is someone who gets me. She understands the chaos, the heartbreak, the healing, and everything in between, because she’s been on her own journey too. She shows up with honesty, vulnerability, and zero filter in the best way.
She’s raw. She’s real. She’s warm. She’s wildly talented. And above all, she’s just an authentically great human being.
It’s truly my greatest pleasure to sit down with my friend, my peer, and someone I deeply admire—Danny Painter. Podcast page on Jacaranda FM
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46:35
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46:35
What Makes a Strong Marriage? (with Gerda de Sousa)
You know, I’m always talking about dating and how messy it is, and love — and how messy that is too. But really, there’s also a silver lining. And that, of course, is marriage.
Someone I really look up to — who’s done really well at this marriage thing — is Jacaranda FM colleague, Gerda de Sousa. I want to figure out: how does she do it?
It’s been many years, they’re still very much in love, they’ve got a kid… I just want to know how.
Because sometimes, you’ve got to learn from the people who are in the trenches.
(Not that marriage is a trench. Anyway, moving on.)
In this episode:
00:00 Welcome to Love, Dating and Chaos
00:22 Introducing Gerda de Sousa
00:47 The tweezer trick
01:24 Marriage tricks and solutions
02:31 Tony's hidden vacuum cleaner
03:45 Marriage realities and reflections
03:55 Philicity's marriage story
05:10 The amicable divorce
05:59 The challenges of marriage and parenthood
07:44 The importance of familiarity in marriage
10:59 The beginning of Philicity and Tony's relationship
14:58 The wedding and family dynamics
20:09 Philicity's reflections on motherhood
21:40 The impact of parenthood on relationships
23:33 Philicity's personal growth and dating advice
25:52 Navigating love and loneliness
27:42 Challenges of modern parenting
29:49 Marriage: the good, the bad, and the funny
36:55 Finding the right partner
45:10 The importance of financial discussions
46:33 Final thoughts and gratitude Podcast page on Jacaranda FM
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48:29
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48:29
What Makes a Strong Marriage? (with Gerda de Sousa)
You know, I’m always talking about dating and how messy it is, and love — and how messy that is too. But really, there’s also a silver lining. And that, of course, is marriage.
Someone I really look up to — who’s done really well at this marriage thing — is Jacaranda FM colleague, Gerda de Sousa. I want to figure out: how does she do it?
It’s been many years, they’re still very much in love, they’ve got a kid… I just want to know how.
Because sometimes, you’ve got to learn from the people who are in the trenches.
(Not that marriage is a trench. Anyway, moving on.)
In this episode:
00:00 Welcome to Love, Dating and Chaos
00:22 Introducing Gerda de Sousa
00:47 The tweezer trick
01:24 Marriage tricks and solutions
02:31 Tony's hidden vacuum cleaner
03:45 Marriage realities and reflections
03:55 Philicity's marriage story
05:10 The amicable divorce
05:59 The challenges of marriage and parenthood
07:44 The importance of familiarity in marriage
10:59 The beginning of Philicity and Tony's relationship
14:58 The wedding and family dynamics
20:09 Philicity's reflections on motherhood
21:40 The impact of parenthood on relationships
23:33 Philicity's personal growth and dating advice
25:52 Navigating love and loneliness
27:42 Challenges of modern parenting
29:49 Marriage: the good, the bad, and the funny
36:55 Finding the right partner
45:10 The importance of financial discussions
46:33 Final thoughts and gratitude Podcast page on Jacaranda FM
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0:36
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0:36
What Do My Daughters Think?
This week, I thought to myself—there are a few people who really know me. And then there are two young women who know me the wellest (yes, I know that’s not a word… but we’re going with it).
I’m talking about my daughters, Simone and Zhara, 22 and 20. Becoming a mom to them shaped who I am as a person. So I thought, why not sit down with them and pick their brains about something a little personal: me—and specifically, me dating.
We talk about my dating life, my experiences, and yes, even my marriage. (If you didn’t know, I was married. We’ve been divorced for a long time now.)
I figured it would be fine—because they love me. And also, they kind of have to be nice to me… I’m their mom. We can only hope. Podcast page on Jacaranda FM
Single and looking for love? Buckle up! Join Philicity Reeken - seasoned radio host and fellow dater - as she unpacks the myths, mysteries, and madness of modern romance. With hilarious stories, real talk, and expert advice, this podcast helps you navigate the exciting (and sometimes awkward) world of dating. Whether you're a seasoned swiper or new to the scene, Philicity’s got you covered. So, ditch the dating app fatigue and join the journey - because finding love shouldn’t feel like a full-time job!