Dating is a stressful and exhausting process. It's often romanticized (no pun intended) as this cutesy, lovely gathering when really it's a trial in the spotlight of your future that determines EVERYTHING. It's daunting. Luckily Jewish matchmaking (also known as the shidduch system) makes that process easier... right?

Wrong. Gabi Koyenov, licensed therapist and host of the GKP Podcast, tells us his nightmare story of the long, high-pressure and seemingly forced experience he went through to find his wife. Chaz Volk, host of Bad Jew, commiserates with Koyenov, as he too is familiar with the judgmental world that can be Jewish dating. Tune in for the full story!

00:00 Introduction

04:48 Curiosity of the Shidduch System

06:53 Orthodox Jewish marriage process explained

12:03 LGBTQ?

14:41 Judgement from family

16:10 Hindering potential

20:06 Repeated vetting

25:31 First impressions

28:21 Irrational, yet rational fear of poor matchmaking.

29:19 Lack of romance severely impacted my mental health.

35:05 Acknowledges flaws, but praises shadow system's benefits.

35:34 Singles experience gridlock; community leaders must act.

About Gabi Koyenov:

Gabi is a natural empath with a love for people. His care and curiosity creates a safe and inviting space where growth, healing, and discovery occurs. Additionally, Gabi is driven by a passion for psychology and helping other. Along with a hard working attitude, this has lead to him graduating his dual master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy and Professional Clinical Counseling with summa cum laude honors. He prides himself on being a life long learner and is on the cutting edge of treatment. Gabi’s approach is unique, high quality, clinically proven, and always puts you first.

Connect with Gabi Koyenov:

Podcast: The GKP Podcast 

IG @journey_with_gabi

www.TheMensTherapyStudio.com

www.youtube.com/@gabikoyenov

Connect with Bad Jew:

BadJew.co

https://linktr.ee/badjew

BadJewPod@gmail.com

Ig @BadJewPod

TikTok @BadJewPod