Call My By Your Name by Andre Aciman | June 24, 2026 093

Call My By Your Name by Andre Aciman | June 24, 2026 093

Today's episode Val, Courtney, and Lisa dive into the evocative novel Call Me By Your Name by André Aciman, exploring its themes of summer romance, self-identity, and profound emotional and physical connection. They analyze the symbolism woven into the story, discuss the characters' journeys, and share personal insights on love and acceptance. In this episode: * Key insights into Elio and Oliver's relationship, exploring themes of obsession, self-discovery, and mutual acceptance * The symbolism of peaches and bodily intimacy in expressing connection and identity * Discussions on age differences, societal acceptance, and the significance of authentic love * Personal anecdotes highlighting the universality of fleeting yet impactful summer relationships * The importance of honesty, vulnerability, and embracing one's true feelings * The cultural context of sexuality and relationships in the 1980s versus today Resources & Links: * Call Me By Your Name by André Aciman [https://www.amazon.com/Call-Your-Name-Novel/dp/0399561455] - Amazon link for the book * André Aciman - Official website [https://www.andreaaciman.com/] * Call Me By Your Name (Movie) [https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5683956/] Connect with us: Let’s Chat! Have a love story to share or a book recommendation we can’t miss? Maybe you have a "What Would You Do?" dilemma for us to tackle? We’d also love to hear from published authors or fellow relationship podcasters interested in an interview! Head over to My Perfect Romance [http://www.myperfectromance.com] to connect.  But while you're here… don’t forget to follow the show and leave a rating or review. It means the world to us! Upcoming reviews & topics: * Colleen Hoover - Woman Down [https://www.colleenhoover.com/books/woman-down]  * The Drama starring Robert Pattinson and Zendaya [https://www.imdb.com/title/tt12345678/] * Interview with Lindsay Goldstein, author of The Gap Year [https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/57052023.Lindsey_Goldstein]

WWYD? #18 | June 17, 2026 092

In this episode, we explore how to handle unwanted attention from neighbors, setting clear boundaries, and addressing uncomfortable situations tactfully yet assertively. Whether you're dealing with persistent friendliness or subtle flirting, learn practical strategies to protect your space and peace of mind. KEY TOPICS: * Recognizing signs of boundary crossing in neighborly interactions * The importance of trusting your instincts when something feels off Let’s Chat! Have a love story to share or a book recommendation we can’t miss? Maybe you have a "What Would You Do?" dilemma for us to tackle? We’d also love to hear from published authors or fellow relationship podcasters interested in an interview! Head over to www.myperfectromance.com [My%20Perfect%20Romance] to connect.  But while you're here… don’t forget to follow the show and leave a rating or review. It means the world to us! Coming Up: * Call Me By Your Name by Andre Aciman [https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/36336078-call-me-by-your-name] * The Gap Year by Lindsey Goldstein [https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/57052023.Lindsey_Goldstein] * The Drama starring Zendaya and Robert Pattinson [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6zmKcUa4Xxk]

Heated Rivalry starring Connor Storrie & Hudson Williams | June 10, 2026 091

Join Val and Lisa as they dive into the intense world of two NHL superstars caught in a fierce rivalry turned romantic. This episode explores themes of love, identity, and societal pressures within the high-stakes world of professional hockey. Key Topics: * The premise and storyline of Heated Rivalry, based on Rachel Reed’s novel, focusing on two top NHL players and their complex relationship. * How rivalry in sports can evolve into deep understanding and love. * The real-life challenges faced by LGBTQ+ athletes in male professional sports, emphasizing the lack of openly gay players historically. * The characters Shane Hollander (Hudson Williams) and Ilia Rosinov (Connor Story), their backgrounds, personal struggles, and cultural differences. * The impact of external pressures like family expectations, national culture (Russia vs. Canada), and societal rejection. * The significance of timing, proximity, and internal growth in making a relationship work under extraordinary circumstances. * The portrayal of LGBTQ+ love stories in sports media, with an appreciation for authenticity and the potential for inspiring change. Connect with Us: Let’s Chat! Have a love story to share or a book recommendation we can’t miss? Maybe you have a "What Would You Do?" dilemma for us to tackle? We’d also love to hear from published authors or fellow relationship podcasters interested in an interview! Head over to www.myperfectromance.com [http://www.myperfectromance.com] to connect.  But first, while you're here… don’t forget to follow the show and leave a rating or review. It means the world to us! Resources & Links: * Rachel Reed's novel Heated Rivalry [https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Heated+Rivalry+Rachel+Reed]  * HBO Official Site [https://www.hbo.com/] Coming Up;  * Call Me By Your Name by Andre Aciman: https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/36336078-call-me-by-your-name [https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/36336078-call-me-by-your-name] * Interview with Lindsey Goldstein Author of Gap Year: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/57052023.Lindsey_Goldstein [https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/57052023.Lindsey_Goldstein] * The Drama starring Robert Pattinson & Zendaya: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6zmKcUa4Xxk

Interview with Lily & Clara | 6-3-26 090

Celebrating Pride Month, Val, Courtney, and Lisa dive into heartfelt stories of navigating love and identity within diverse family and cultural backgrounds. Join us as we explore the journeys of two young women discovering themselves and each other, highlighting the power of authenticity, communication, and support. If you'd like to share your love story, suggest a movie or book to review, ask us what would you do, or if you've written a published book and would like to do an interview, please reach out to us! You can go to our website at: www.myperfectromance.com [https://myperfectromance.com/]. Please follow us wherever you get your podcasts and if you enjoy our content, rate and review. We would appreciate it so much! Coming up we're going to review: * Heated Rivalry starring Connor Storrie & Hudson Williams: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lKO26odltss [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lKO26odltss] * Call Me By Your Name by Andre Aciman: https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/36336078-call-me-by-your-name [https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/36336078-call-me-by-your-name] * Interview with Lindsey Goldstein Author of Gap Year: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/57052023.Lindsey_Goldstein

How To Save Your Marriage by Lee Baucom | May 27, 2026 089

In this episode, we explore practical, action-oriented strategies to repair and strengthen your marriage based on Lee Balcom’s principles. Whether you're feeling disconnected or just want to deepen your connection, these insights can help guide your journey toward emotional safety, better communication, and lasting love. MAIN CONTENT INSIGHTS: * The distinction between simple and easy solutions in relationship work; real change requires effort. * Focus on self-change by improving communication, emotional responses, and trust, which in turn can significantly impact the relationship. * Relationships are dynamic; they either grow or shrink, be proactive in fostering growth. * Shifting mindset from blaming your partner to focusing on your own behaviors fosters accountability. * Small, consistent actions to rebuild trust and emotional safety are more effective than grand gestures. * Avoid blaming or shaming; emotional safety is prioritized over superficial romance. * The importance of recognizing that emotional disconnection occurs gradually and needs gentle, ongoing attention. * Responding positively to bids for attention and connection is crucial; the Gottman Institute emphasizes bids and response rates. * Address issues early before they escalate; waiting until problems become unbearable reduces relationship resilience. * Working on oneself doesn't enable bad behavior but can empower you to make healthier choices including walking away if necessary. * Communication through daily routines, like walks or shared activities, sustains connection over time. * Defensiveness is a primary relationship killer; practicing vulnerability and understanding reduces conflicts. * Love survives without admiration and respect; both are foundational for lasting partnership. * Personal growth and positivity are attractive and can redirect marital trajectories toward renewal. * Relationship maintenance resembles watering a garden, ongoing attention is key to long-term health. To purchase How To Save Your Marriage: In Three Simple Steps by Lee Baucom, go to: Amazon [https://a.co/d/0aYeU5Yo] or check Lee Baucom's Save The Marriage website [https://savethemarriage.com/] Let’s Chat! Have a love story to share or a book recommendation we can’t miss? Maybe you have a "What Would You Do?" dilemma for us to tackle? We’d also love to hear from published authors or fellow relationship podcasters interested in an interview! Head over to www.myperfectromance.com [http://www.myperfectromance.com] to connect. Coming Up: * Heated Rivarlry: Official Trailer [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lKO26odltss] * Call Me By Your Name by Andre Aciman: Call Me By Your Name - Goodreads [https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/36336078-call-me-by-your-name] * Interview with Lindsey Goldstein Author of Gap Year: The Gap Year - Goodreads [https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/57052023.Lindsey_Goldstein]