Fine, Toxic & Spiritually Growing While Dating

Fine, Toxic & Spiritually Growing While Dating

This episode dives into candid conversations about love, friendship, jealousy, self-growth, and navigating the modern dating world, which we're known for here on ROL. Featuring insightful discussions with Motion, a versatile creative, life enthusiast, and friend to the show, the episode captures raw honesty on relationships and personal development. Main topics covered: * The importance of self-awareness and spiritual growth in dating * Navigating friendships without romantic expectations * Perspectives on being a "prize" in relationships * Managing jealousy, possessiveness, and ego in romantic dynamics * The realities of multi-dating and maintaining multiple connections * Insights into masculinity, emotional intelligence, and growth at different life stages * The significance of communication, boundaries, and mutual appreciation CONNECT WITH US: * Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, & Threads: @rideorliepodcast * Email: theblinknetwork@gmail.com [theblinknetwork@gmail.com] * Web: www.rideorlie.com “In life and love, you have two choices: Ride or Lie.”

Charmers, Sugar Daddies & Grown Woman Standards

This week, Shan and CoCo are keeping it real about dating then vs. now… and how much (or how little) has actually changed. From joking about sugar daddies to questioning whether spinning the block is ever worth it, the conversation takes a deeper turn into how women evolve in what they want, what they tolerate, and what they’re no longer falling for. They reflect on high school dating experiences, the types of men they used to entertain, and how maturity, self-awareness, and life responsibilities have reshaped their standards. And then there’s “Todd.” Inspired by their new micro-drama series Circles of the Ridge, they break down the classic “charmer” archetype… the smooth-talking, overly polished guy who knows exactly what to say and do. The question is: are women still falling for that? Or have we finally learned to see through it? This episode dives into: * The idea of “spinning the block” and when (if ever) it makes sense * Why charm alone doesn’t hit the same anymore * The difference between validation vs. genuine connection * How self-awareness impacts the type of partners we attract * What actually matters now vs. what used to It’s funny, honest, and a little nostalgic… but ultimately about growth. Because at some point, it’s not about who looks good on paper… it’s about who actually adds value to your life. 📲 Stay Connected Join the conversation and let us know your thoughts: Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @rideorliepodcast Email: theblinknetwork@gmail.com

Satisfaction vs Fulfillment in Modern Dating

Has Shan finally found the one? In this episode, Shan and CoCo are joined by Marlon, a close friend of the show, who challenges what we think we know about emotional maturity, intentionality, and modern relationships. After meeting on a dating app and ultimately choosing friendship over romance, Shan found herself experiencing something unexpected with Marlon: consistency, clarity, and the rare feeling of being genuinely seen and wanted...all the things she's been looking for in a partner...so what's the issue?! This conversation dives into: * Why so many people feel unsatisfied in relationships * The difference between being chosen vs truly being wanted * How intentionality separates real interest from excuses * The truth about poly relationships and emotional maturity Marlon shares his perspective as a man living a poly lifestyle, breaking down the difference between satisfaction and fulfillment and what it really takes to show up for the people you care about. If you’ve ever questioned why someone isn’t showing up for you… this episode might give you your answer. Connect with us:  IG/FB/TikTok: @rideorliepodcast Email: info@theblinknetwork@gmail.com

We Weren’t Taught How to Date: How Black Upbringing Shapes Modern Relationships

Were we ever actually taught how to date, or just how to avoid getting “messed up”? In this layered conversation, Shan and CoCo unpack how black family, culture, generational trauma, and “crisis prevention” shaped what many of us learned about love. Joined by licensed clinical social worker Miesha Rice and Atlanta dating host Vanessa, the group explores why courtship can feel foreign, how dating apps changed accountability, and what it takes to build healthier connections when nobody handed you the blueprint. What You’ll Hear in This Episode * Why so many of us were taught what not to do (don’t get pregnant, don’t ruin your future) instead of how to build a healthy relationship * How family history, long-term stress, and generational patterns can show up in adult dating choices * The “connection vs protection” gap: what was missing from the conversations we needed * A real talk breakdown of ghosting, fading out, and the lack of accountability in modern dating * The “date them all” debate: keeping options open, communicating expectations, and avoiding rose-colored glasses * Why singles mixers and in-person events are trending again (and what they offer that apps can’t) * A powerful case for therapy early, including the idea of moderated conversations at the start of dating The Clip That Sparked the Conversation Shan brings in a viral-style perspective on how Black communities are socialized differently around dating, courtship, and “pair bonding,” than their White counterparts sparked by a video that a friend shared with her from @bunmisupreme on Instagram. The conversation expands the idea by adding emotional availability, family modeling (even in two-parent homes), and the long shadow of cultural and historical trauma. Key Takeaways * If your only relationship education was avoidance, it makes sense that adult dating can feel confusing, anxious, or high-stakes. * “Serious” isn’t assumed anymore. Clarity comes from direct conversations about what dating means to each person. * Apps can encourage low-effort behavior. In-person spaces often create more accountability and real chemistry checks. * Emotional intelligence matters early. Look for it before you’re already invested. * Healing isn’t just personal, it’s cultural. Therapy and guided conversations can help you build a new script. Guest Info Vanessa (Dating Host) * Company: Jigsaw Dating (app) * Instagram: @popupwithvaness * Promo code: VanessaHost10 (10% off first ticket) Miesha Rice, MSW, LCSW-C, LCSW * CEO/Founder: Whole Family Healing Group * Therapy for individuals and families (ages 6+) * Website: www.wholefamilyhealinggroup.com [http://www.wholefamilyhealinggroup.com] Clip Credit: @bunmisupreme on Instagram What did you learn about dating growing up: connection, protection, or nothing at all? And how is that showing up in your relationships right now? If this episode made you think, send it to a friend who’s “tired of the apps” and trying to date with intention. And connect with us: @RideOrLiePodcast on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok

Why Are We Really Doing This? Purpose, Mental Health & Choosing Yourself

In this episode of Ride or Lie, Coco and Shan step away from surface-level conversations and get honest about the question that shapes everything: Why are we really doing this? This is a reflective, vulnerable conversation about purpose, evolution, mental health, and the courage it takes to choose yourself, especially when life doesn’t look the way you imagined it would. Shan opens up about how her “why” has shifted over time, from ambition and entrepreneurship to motherhood, healing, and stability. She shares how becoming a mother reshaped her priorities around mental health, financial security, emotional safety, and self-preservation. This season of her life is about being whole so she can show up fully, not just for her child, but for herself. Coco shares a deeply personal reflection on her own journey, stepping back from distractions, reassessing dating, and choosing alignment over noise. Her “why” is bigger than relationships and external validation. It’s about safety, creativity, integrity, and being able to say, at the end of the day, “I’m proud of myself.” Together, they unpack:  • Mental health and emotional regulation  • Personal growth through pain and transition  • Letting go of distractions that no longer align  • Redefining success beyond relationships and timelines  • What it means to evolve without abandoning who you are The conversation also touches on current events and culture, including reflections on media coverage, loss, and visibility. They reference the public attention surrounding Savannah Guthrie and how empathy, access, and attention show up differently in national news. This episode lands during Black History Month, grounding the discussion in awareness, reflection, and community responsibility. Coco and Shan also acknowledge recent loss in the culture, including the passing of DJ Young Slade, the son of Lil Jon. Connect with us anytime @rideorliepodcast