Love Factually

Why is it important to understand a loved-one's identity? Which sorts of people are likely to hold grudges? Is having a "jacked-up" attitude worse if you're a woman? Paul and Eli contemplate Love & Basketball, Gina Prince-Bythewood's exploration of ambition, attachment, and gender at a time when the world sadly lacked the WNBA. 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

Join psychologist Paul Eastwick, author of "Bonded by Evolution," as he challenges popular beliefs in evolutionary psychology related to romantic relationships. He discusses how men and women share similar desires in partners, revealing that gender differences in sexual drive are often overstated. Paul also critiques outdated mate value hierarchies, emphasizing the importance of compatibility over societal standards of desirability. Plus, he warns against the toxic narratives emerging from online communities that distort scientific findings on attraction.

Dive into the emotional depths of the 2018 film featuring Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga. Explore themes of vulnerability and the male struggle with needing care. Discover how personal growth can shake up relationships and the dynamics of attraction through early vulnerability. The hosts discuss generational authenticity, chaotic interdependence, and the impact of alcoholism. They critique the film’s dark view on relationships and analyze missed opportunities for connection, all wrapped up in a powerful reflection on love and art.

Explore the complexities of narcissism and love when a best friend falls for an ex. Delve into the dynamics of friendship versus romance, and the dangers of pursuing taken partners. Discover the captivating character of George as a moral center amid chaotic relationships. The hosts critique the film's portrayal of commitment and ethical dilemmas, questioning the morality of confessing love at a wedding. With personal memories and insightful analysis, the conversation navigates timeless romantic complications.

Exploring romance in a picturesque setting, the hosts dive into how changing scenery might aid in finding love. They discuss the fascinating dynamics of unrequited love and the impact of sexual propositions from strangers. The film's dual-story structure offers insight into friendship as emotional support, while setting boundaries restores self-respect. They also analyze positive portrayals of masculinity, and critique classic meet-cute tropes. With humor and keen observation, they examine the complexities of modern relationships.

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