Love Factually

In this insightful discussion, Paul Eastwick, a psychologist and author specializing in romantic compatibility, shares his research experiences, including using speed dating as a study method. He reveals intriguing findings about why online dating often misses the mark on compatibility. Paul argues that true connection develops through meaningful interactions, rather than superficial profiles. He emphasizes that a relationship thrives on shared experiences and suggests using intimate questions to deepen connections. Insightful and engaging, this conversation sheds light on the complexities of love.

Explore the profound impact of giving and gratitude in a classic holiday film. The hosts dive into how vulnerability invites support and how altruism strengthens community ties. They discuss the science behind happiness derived from spending on others and reflect on key character dynamics. With themes of duty versus self-expression, they examine societal roles and stress management within relationships. The transformation of the main character highlights the importance of valuing connections over profits.

Dive into the quirky world of friendship and romance! Explore how friend networks shape romantic connections and what happens when love alters those dynamics. Discover the debate on whether weddings are for hookups or lasting love. Reflect on missed opportunities and the comedic twists of a classic rom-com. Delve into nuanced themes like sexual fluidity and fidelity, and ponder the realities of relationship timelines. This discussion unearths deeper questions about love, commitment, and the role of companionship.

Do opposites attract? When is intimacy scary? Can offering forgiveness inadvertently escalate conflict? In this special crossover episode of the Dear Nina: Conversations about Friends podcast, Paul and Eli chat with Nina Badzin and Rebekah Jacobs about Beaches, the Bette Midler musical showcase about lifelong friendships.

What happens when our self-esteem is tied to our looks? How can significant others make us feel confident? What is the nature of found families? Paul and Eli travel to the gorgeously trippy world of Howl's Moving Castle (2004), Hayao Miyazaki's anti-war fable about the power of love and hair dye. For show notes, click here. Hosted, produced, and edited by Paul Eastwick and Eli Finkel. Music by Andrew Fraker and Sons Artwork by Katie Keil

Are some people just late bloomers? Is asking questions a good dating strategy? What does it mean to be a good lover, anyway? Paul and Eli unpack The 40 Year-Old Virgin—the 2005 transgressive comedy from Judd Apatow—and reflect on how times (and they themselves) have changed in the intervening 20 years. For show notes, click here. Hosted, produced, and edited by Paul Eastwick and Eli Finkel. Music by Andrew Fraker and Sons Artwork by Katie Keil

In this special crossover episode of the APA Speaking of Psychology podcast, Paul and Eli chat with Kim Mills about the helpful and harmful lessons we absorb from romantic films.

How does it feel to lose a loved-one? Do we benefit from having a partner who speaks our love language? What's so sexy about creativity? Paul and Eli take a nostalgia trip back to Ghost (1990), the romance/murder mystery/revenge epic/moral fable/all-around sensation starring Patrick Swayze, Demi Moore, and Whoopi Goldberg. For show notes, click here. Hosted, produced, and edited by Paul Eastwick and Eli Finkel. Music by Andrew Fraker and Sons Artwork by Katie Keil

How is romantic attachment similar to parent-child attachment? Can the fear of intimacy make someone controlling? What's the connection between relationships and food? Paul and Eli revisit Paul Thomas Anderson's majestic Phantom Thread (2017), the Best Picture nominee that served up one of cinema's most deliciously warped loved stories. For show notes, click here. Hosted, produced, and edited by Paul Eastwick and Eli Finkel. Music by Andrew Fraker and Sons Artwork by Katie Keil

Year one of Love Factually is in the books! Paul and Eli first review their favorite moments from the first year of the show, and then (at 42:20) they count down the Top Five most accurate movies they've covered to date.