Forrest and Dr. Rick explore "situationships" – those poorly defined, boundary-free relationships that exist in a gray area between friendship and committed dating. They unpack why these arrangements have become so common, examine the emotional trade-offs that keep people stuck, and share how to reclaim a sense of agency and build more authentic connections. The episode includes a role-play where Forrest plays someone struggling with situationships, while Dr. Rick draws on his decades of experience as a couples counselor to offer guidance.

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You can watch this episode on YouTube.

Key Topics:

0:00 : Introduction

2:35 : What is a situationship?

7:25 : The benefits of a situationship, and relationship asymmetry

13:05 : A roleplay of sharing your feelings

20:55 : Uncertainty, wanting to be liked, and the fear of asking for what you want

31:10 : Gears of rapport, and knowing your worth

38:05 : Honoring yourself when a change is needed 

48:05 : How much to care, and the natural arc of change

52:35 : Early indicators that someone is ready for a relationship

58:55 : Recap

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