The Ardent Pursuit

Ep. 26 - Who's in Charge: You or Your Emotions?

Emotions are important—but no one should be ruled by them. In this episode, we dive into the pitfalls of being emotionally driven, such as impulsive decision-making and overreacting to minor problems or conflicts. We explore some characteristics of emotional health in relationships, such as emotional independence and patience. Lastly, we take a hard look at how best to navigate and manage emotions without rejecting them entirely—recognizing them as a healthy tool, not a taskmaster.

Ep. 25 - Don't Date for Years

In this episode, we tackle a critical problem that cripples many dating relationships: complacency. From fear of commitment to external pressures like finances and family expectations, there are many factors that can often cause men to avoid making necessary decisions. We'll unpack how this passivity frequently leads to lowered standards, unresolved conflicts, and emotional distance. Complacency kills growth. Join us as we explore the consequences of stagnancy and some key principles for moving forward with purpose.

Ep. 24 - The Isolation Trap

Today, we unpack the "Isolation Trap" in relationships, where couples withdraw from community and focus entirely on each other. We guarantee you've either seen or experienced this kind of tunnel vision! It's possible to avoid falling into the trap, and we provide a practical framework to stay connected to community. We discuss the importance of spending time with others, resisting the temptation to make everything about "you two", and being open to feedback.

Ep. 23 - Dating Shouldn't Change Everything

We believe that dating shouldn't dramatically alter a person's life. In this episode, we challenge common misconceptions about romantic relationships, emphasizing the importance of being self-disciplined and remembering that dating isn't marriage. Join us as we address the pitfalls of becoming emotionally codependent while dating and discuss practical ways to set your sights on long-term health while making the most of the dating phase.

Ep. 22 - What Is the Purpose of the Dating Phase

There is a significant difference between dating for fun and dating with purpose. Are you pursuing relationships because it’s fulfilling in the moment, or are you doing so with the future in mind? Modern dating culture, which often places a premium on self-fulfillment, is actually setting the stage for divorce. Join us as we unpack the necessity of clear vision and purpose in keeping relationships from drifting into unhealthy territory, and as we challenge the popular notion that the purpose of dating should be finding someone who will make you happy. True commitment shouldn’t be put on hold for convenience. Join us as we explore practical ways to pursue successful relationships, instead of rehearsing for divorce.

Ep. 21 - You Need Physical Boundaries

In this episode we dive into the often overlooked but crucial step of setting physical boundaries for dating relationships. While intimacy encompasses both the physical and emotional, today's focus is on the physical aspect and the reasons why clear boundaries are essential. We challenge the assumption that physical intimacy should progress as a relationship progresses. Instead, we advocate for a thoughtful approach, ensuring emotional intimacy builds first and that physical desires aren’t fulfilled prematurely. Join us as we explore the importance of early boundary-setting, how to navigate this sensitive terrain with confidence and clarity, and the impact it has on cultivating a healthy, respectful relationship.

Ep. 20 - What If Her Parents Say No

In today's culture, the notion of seeking permission from parents to date can seem archaic, oppressive, or even anti-woman. However, in this episode we explore the value of honoring authority and the long-term blessings that come with inviting parental involvement in a romantic relationship. We'll discuss the distinction between honor and obedience and tackle challenging scenarios, such as what to do if her father or mother are not in favor of your relationship. We'll provide practical advice on addressing parental concerns, working towards personal growth, and understanding the long-term impact of investing in relational health. Join us as we navigate the complexities of authority and honor in key relationships, and how they set the stage for long-term blessing.

Ep. 19 - What to Do If She Says No

In today's episode, we tackle the topic: "What to Do If She Says No?" Navigating rejection with grace and maturity is a true mark of character, and we explore how to respond in a way that respects and honors the woman you're interested in. We'll discuss the importance of respecting her decision without pressing for the reasons, the dangers of reacting emotionally, and why it's crucial not to turn rejection into drama. We'll unpack some of  the possible reasons behind her decision, including whether you might have pursued the wrong person, approached the situation in the wrong way, or simply weren't ready for a relationship.

Ep. 18 - 5 Reasons Why Women May Say No

When it comes to understanding why a woman might say no, the reasons are as diverse as the women themselves. However, today we’re diving into five reasons we’ve observed over the past few years. One note: these reasons aren’t one-size-fits-all, and many women may have never considered these five as a reason to reject the overtures of a man.

Ep. 17 - Cultural Commentary

Today, we taking time to discuss some cultural trends and viral videos that are relevant to the world of relationships, dating, and marriage and how they can easily influence us if not looked at with a critical lens.