True Love Knots

171 Connecting Through Compassion Through the Aloha Spirit with June Dillinger

In a world drowning in quick scrolls and shallow connections, how do we truly understand love and personal growth? In this episode of The True Love Knots Podcast, Maria sits down with June Dillinger, creator of Heart Cards, to explore how a simple card draw can transform relationships, workplace culture, and personal growth. June shares how her father’s disability shaped her journey and inspired her to create atool that helps people pause, listen, and connect on a deeper level. She explains why true love and understanding start with intentional reflection and how Heart Cards are more than just a deck—they’re a bridge to self-awarenessand meaningful connections. If you’re ready to open your heart, this episode is for you.   Standout Quotes: ·        “The more I share my talents and gifts with others, the more I have for myself.” ·        “If we can let our heart lead, miracles will happen.” ·        “Aloha is ‘alo,’ meaning life, and ‘ha,’ meaning breath. So, when you say aloha, you're sharing the breath of life.” ·        “When we pause and look at our mate, neighbor, dog, or someone we might be angry with, just pause. It's in the in-between space that everything changes.” ·        “There's not one negative card in the deck. They're all positive, and gently so. They nudge us to see more of the beauty within us.” Key Takeaways: ·        Practice the "pause" daily - take 60 seconds to genuinely connect with someone around you, making full eye contact and expressing authentic appreciation without distractions. ·        Start a workplace or personal ritual using the Heart Cards: draw one card at the beginning of your day/meeting to spark meaningful conversation and self-reflection. ·        Challenge yourself to notice body language in conversations - are you truly present? Adjust your posture, turn towards the speaker, and give full attention to demonstrate genuine listening. ·        Create a personal "love visibility" experiment: for one week, intentionally perform small acts of kindness or connection that make love tangible for others, tracking how it shifts your perspective. ·        Embrace the Hawaiian concept of "Aloha" - literally sharing the breath of life - by consciously infusing your daily interactions with genuine connection and compassion.   Episode Timeline: [00:02] Introducing June Dillinger [04:08] From Weddings to Prisons: How June Helps People Find Love [05:50] The Secret Power of Pausing (And How It Can Change Your Life) [08:40] What Are Heart Cards? A Simple Tool for Deeper Connections [12:41] Heart Cards Shuffle Demonstration [18:42] How to Get Certified in Heart Cards (And Why It Matters) [21:23] The Personal Story Behind Heart Cards & Their Impact [24:21] Bringing Heart Cards to Schools, Workplaces, and Communities [24:40] What Aloha Really Means & How to Bring More Love Into Your Life   Learn more about June Dillinger on her socials: Website: https://www.heartcardsglobal.com/ [https://www.heartcardsglobal.com/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/junedillinger/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/junedillinger/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/idohawaiianweddings/ [https://www.instagram.com/idohawaiianweddings/] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/royalhawaiianapple [https://www.youtube.com/user/royalhawaiianapple] Twitter/X: https://x.com/idohawaiianwed [https://x.com/idohawaiianwed] The Benefit of the Ex: Making Love Visible When Everything Changes: https://www.amazon.com/Benefit-Ex-Visible-Everything-Changes/dp/0578620030 [https://www.amazon.com/Benefit-Ex-Visible-Everything-Changes/dp/0578620030]   Learn more about Maria Romano and True Love Knots at: Website: https://trueloveknots.com [https://trueloveknots.com/] Email: maria@trueloveknots.com [maria@trueloveknots.com] Phone: +1 702-501-4150

170 Mastering the Art of Relationship Patterns with Bob Grant

Are you stuck in unfulfilling relationships and wondering why love feels out of reach? In this episode of the True Love Knots Podcast, relationship expert Bob Grant talks about how hidden patterns and beliefs may be holding you back. Bob opens up about his own struggles with learning disabilities and how they led him to help others build lasting connections. He explains how self-criticism, especially among successful women, can create barriers to love and offers insights on shifting these mindsets. From dating apps to modern gender dynamics, Bob’s advice empowers you to embrace vulnerability, challenge old narratives, and discover what you truly need in a partner. Ready for lasting love?   Standout Quotes: “I don't know that it's about trying harder; it's about learning how to do it in a way that works for me.” “Patterns don't lie. I may not know how to interpret correctly, but a pattern's a clue to something I'm probably doing, not doing, or not being aware of.” “Pain has a wonderful thing: it keeps us from being satisfied with where we're at now. That can be loneliness, boredom, or actual pain.” “I think if I'm talking to a man, it's like a job interview. It's a great illustration because it shows that this is the best chance you have to make a first impression.” Key Takeaways: Identify your personal patterns and tendencies in relationships - what coping mechanisms or self-limiting beliefs might be sabotaging your efforts to find lasting love? Seek honest feedback from a trusted source to gain clarity. Challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone and do something differently. Small, incremental changes can disrupt unhealthy patterns and open the door to new possibilities. Approach online dating profiles and interactions with the same care and intention as a job interview - your first impression matters, so invest the time to present your authentic self. Recognize that the person you meet in person may be quite different from their online persona. Keep an open mind and focus on building an emotional connection, not just physical attraction. If you're not ready for professional coaching, start by surrounding yourself with a supportive community that can provide honest, constructive feedback to help you grow. Avoid relying solely on friends and family who may inadvertently enable your current patterns.   Episode Timeline: [00:00] Introducing Bob Grant [02:57] From Youth Leadership to Relationship Coaching [05:09] Helping Clients Find the Root Cause of Love Struggles [07:35] Modern Dating Challenges and Making a Great First Impression [12:04] Why Bob Focuses on Coaching Women in Relationships [18:17] Spotting and Breaking Negative Relationship Patterns [18:46] Simple Steps to Stop Repeating Relationship Mistakes [27:06] Dating Differences Between Women in Their 30s And 50s [30:45] Free Resources to Improve Your Love Life and Relationships   Learn more about Bob Grant on his socials: Website: https://relationshipheadquarters.com/ [https://relationshipheadquarters.com/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-grant-b6349228/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-grant-b6349228/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RelationshipHeadquarters/ [https://www.facebook.com/RelationshipHeadquarters/] Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/15a4c7LZLeQyYsj7fPAt7r [https://open.spotify.com/show/15a4c7LZLeQyYsj7fPAt7r]   Learn more about Maria Romano and True Love Knots at: Website: https://trueloveknots.com [https://trueloveknots.com/] Email: maria@trueloveknots.com [maria@trueloveknots.com] Phone: +1 702-501-4150

169 Mastering Self-Awareness for Successful Dating with Kim Aronson

Struggling to find love in today’s swipe-right culture? In this episode of the True Love Knots Podcast, Kim Aronson—dating site founder and intuitive reader—shares practical insights to help you build deeper, more meaningful connections. Kim highlights common dating struggles, from mismatched expectations to emotional disconnects, and explains how self-awareness and emotional intelligence can transform your approach to relationships. He also reveals how subtle energy cues, clear boundaries, and active listening play a vital role in attracting the right partner. Beyond dating, Kim’s story of overcoming dyslexia and embracing technology inspires personal growth. Ready to create authentic connections? This episode offers the tools to start today.   Standout Quotes: “Intuition is something we all have, but you can definitely train it to be much better.” “It's better to be with someone who's a little bit intuitive and a little bit sensitive, because then they know what's going on. The awareness of how they act and what their own little shadow sides are like makes it healthier.” “Intuition is not about feeling the other person out, and for women especially, it's really about feeling into their own needs and feeling their own limitations.” “Don't blame anybody else. The truth is, you are the one who's making your life miserable, and you are the one who can fix it by being more conscious, being more aware, having an open heart, knowing what you want, and setting more limits.” “Dress well. Even if you go into the bakery or the grocery store, dress well. You're out there, and you're trying to attract somebody.” Key Takeaways: Cultivate self-awareness and emotional intelligence. Understand your own needs, limitations, and standards before seeking a partner. This will help you attract the right people and avoid settling. Actively listen and be present when on dates. Resist the urge to dominate the conversation and instead focus on truly hearing your date. This simple shift can make a profound difference. Embrace your intuition and sensitivity. Whether you identify as a man or a woman, tapping into your intuitive abilities can provide valuable insights to navigate relationships. Leverage technology but use it wisely. Explore how AI and other tools can enhance your dating experiences, but don't let them control you. Maintain agency and consciousness in your approach. Dress to impress, even in everyday situations. Your outward appearance can influence the energy you project and the connections you make. Take pride in how you present yourself to the world.   Episode Timeline: [00:00] Introducing Kim Aronson [03:26] What It’s Like to Be a Professional Intuitive Reader [10:59] Advice for Men Navigating Modern Dating Challenges [11:44] How AI Helped Kim Write 32 Books Despite Dyslexia [16:07] Key Tips for Singles to Build Self-Awareness In Dating [25:14] Free Resources and Practical Advice For Finding Love   Learn more about Kim Aronson on his socials: Website: https://www.kimaronson.com/ [https://www.kimaronson.com/] Kim’s Books: https://www.wisdommanuals.com/ [https://www.wisdommanuals.com/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimaronson [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimaronson] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KimAronson/ [https://www.facebook.com/KimAronson/] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KimAronson [https://www.youtube.com/@KimAronson] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kima/ [https://www.instagram.com/kima/]   Learn more about Maria Romano and True Love Knots at: Website: https://trueloveknots.com [https://trueloveknots.com/] Email: maria@trueloveknots.com [maria@trueloveknots.com] Phone: +1 702-501-4150

168 Securing Your Financial Future as a Widow or Divorcee with Wes Cuprill

Are you a woman facing the financial challenges of divorce or widowhood? In this episode of the True Love Knots Podcast, Maria is joined by Wes Cuprill, who shares how his family’s experiences inspired him to help women find financial security during life’s toughest transitions. He explains why women often face unique hurdles, like longer life expectancies and higher healthcare costs, and stresses the importance of a personalized, values-based approach to financial planning. Wes also warns against one-size-fits-all advisors who push products over real solutions and highlights the power of working with someone who understands your goals. Ready to take control of your financial future with confidence? This conversation will inspire you to start today.   Standout Quotes: “Financial advisors, many of whom we work with, will actively say they don't like working with women, which blows my mind. One, it's incredibly sexist to say it. And then two, on top of that, women are our best clients.” “It's our job to help, not just from the numbers standpoint, but also to give them peace of mind. I think that's one thing that is maybe misunderstood with advisors. Yeah, we're numbers guys, certainly, but we try to be more than that.” “Women will answer with things like it means financial freedom. It means I get to spend more time with my kids doing the things I always wanted to do.” “We don't believe in pushing a product first; we believe in truly holistic financial planning. You can go buy a product on your own. You don't need us to invest your money. You don't need us to buy an annuity or anything like that.” Key Takeaways: Assess your current financial advisor - Do they truly understand and cater to the unique needs of women? Look for an advisor who takes a holistic, values-based approach, not just a one-size-fits-all product pusher. Confront your financial fears head-on - Whether it's uncertainty about your resources or feeling overwhelmed by the planning process, don't let those emotions paralyze you. An experienced advisor can provide the guidance and support to overcome those hurdles. Reflect on your retirement vision - What does a fulfilling, financially secure retirement look like to you? Dig deeper than just the numbers and get clear on your personal values and goals. Embrace a long-term, patient mindset - Resist the temptation of chasing get-rich-quick schemes or market timing. Proven, disciplined investment strategies built on sound principles are the path to sustainable wealth. Seek an advisor who can be a true partner - Look for someone who will not only crunch the numbers, but also provide the emotional coaching and accountability to help you stay the course, no matter what life throws your way.   Episode Timeline: [00:03] Introducing Wes Cuprill [01:51] How Family History Inspired Wes’ Mission [03:50] Common Challenges Widowed Women Face with Finances [06:41] Unique Financial Needs Women Should Plan For [09:45] Tackling Retirement Hurdles for Baby Boomers [12:16] Why Holistic Financial Planning Is the Real Solution [15:10] How to Find a Financial Advisor Who Truly Gets You [18:06] Crypto Risks and Emotional Traps in Investing [20:18] Breaking Stereotypes and Empowering Women to Invest [23:09] Free Resources to Build Your Financial Confidence   Learn more about Wes Cuprill on his socials: Website: https://moneyandclarity.com/ [https://moneyandclarity.com/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/advisorarchitect/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/advisorarchitect/] WWW Podcast: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2399284.rss [https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2399284.rss] Suddenly Single: A Divorced Woman’s Guide to Financial Security: https://www.amazon.com/Suddenly-Single-Divorced-Financial-Security/dp/B0CFCYSN5J [https://www.amazon.com/Suddenly-Single-Divorced-Financial-Security/dp/B0CFCYSN5J] Unexpectedly Single: A Widow's Guide to a Secure Retirement: https://www.amazon.com/Unexpectedly-Single-Widows-Secure-Retirement/dp/B0CWL762PB [https://www.amazon.com/Unexpectedly-Single-Widows-Secure-Retirement/dp/B0CWL762PB]   Learn more about Maria Romano and True Love Knots at: Website: https://trueloveknots.com [https://trueloveknots.com/] Email: maria@trueloveknots.com [maria@trueloveknots.com] Phone: +1 702-501-4150

167 Unlocking Secrets to Love and Attachment with Bev Mitelman

Struggling to understand your relationship patterns? In this episode of the True Love Knots Podcast, relationship expert Bev Mitelman joins Maria to discuss how attachment styles, shaped by early experiences, impact our adult relationships. Bev breaks down the differences between secure, anxious, and avoidant attachment styles, explaining how they influence dating and intimacy. She shares practical tips for recognizing your own attachment style and offers advice for healthier, more fulfilling connections. If you're ready to break free from old patterns and build stronger relationships, tune in for insightful guidance on understanding yourself and your partner better.   Standout Quotes: “There are many scenarios that can create a break in safety for a child, leading to the development of patterns we call insecure attachment. These patterns get imprinted into our subconscious mind and follow us into adulthood, resulting in highly prescriptive behaviors.” “Women have a strong propensity to emotionally bond with their sexual partner, especially if the sex is good.” “Desire needs time to grow. Sometimes, we're so impatient that we don't allow these feelings to go through their natural cycles.” “I have no issues with people living the way they want to. Where I get really aggravated is that we have now indoctrinated an entire generation of children and started to medicalize them to change genders.” "People who are anxious may weaponize sex, using it as a means to gain approval, reassurance, and closeness. Anxious individuals often desire closeness with their partner." Key Takeaways: Reflect on your own attachment style and consider how it impacts your current relationships. Are there patterns you recognize that could use attention or adjustment? Communicate openly with partners about the meaning and expectations you associate with intimacy. Consider asking them, “What does sex mean to you?” Take note of the differences in emotional bonding between genders and how they might affect your relationship dynamics. If feeling anxious in a relationship, assess whether you use intimacy to seek reassurance. Consider healthier ways to nurture connection and security. Explore attachment-related resources, such as quizzes or workshops, to deepen your understanding and improve relationship skills. Episode Timeline: [00:03] Introducing Bev Mitelman [02:02] Bev’s Journey from Personal Growth to Relationship Coach [01:54] Exploring the Roots of Attachment Trauma [02:52] How Attachment Styles Shape Adult Relationships [04:41] Understanding Gender Differences in Attachment [07:42] Overcoming Challenges in Today’s Dating Scene [16:34] How Generations View Therapy and Healing [18:06] The Role of Social Media in Mental Health [19:40] Discussing the Controversy Around Gender Identity [22:48] Attachment Styles in LGBTQ+ Relationships Explained [30:11] Final Thoughts   Learn more about Bev Mitelman on her socials: Website: https://securelyloved.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bevmitelman/   Learn more about Maria Romano and True Love Knots at: Website: https://trueloveknots.com [https://trueloveknots.com/] Email: maria@trueloveknots.com [maria@trueloveknots.com] Phone: +1 702-501-4150