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How to Find "The One": The Science of Dating with Tim Molnar

The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos

Pushkin Industries

February 16, 2026

Show Notes

Modern dating can feel exhausting. On one hand, there’s the seemingly endless swiping that leads to dating app burnout; on the other, there’s what can feel like the insurmountable challenge of meeting someone in real life.

But what if finding love is less about fate — and more about strategy? Dr. Laurie sits down with behavioral scientist and dating coach Tim Molnar, author of DateSmarter: A Strategic Guide to Navigating Modern Romance, to explore what the research really says about how to meet the right person, build genuine connection, and avoid common dating mistakes.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

DateSmarter: A Strategic Guide to Navigating Modern Romance

Receptivityto Sexual Invitations from Strangers of the Opposite Gender

Howto Bounce Back from Life’s Curveballs (with Dr. Maya Shankar)

Computations of Uncertainty Mediate Acute Stress Responses in Humans

ImplementationIntentions and Goal Achievement: A Meta-Analysis of Effects and Processes

 “Forbes Health Survey: 78% Of All Users Report Dating App Burnout

Foot-in-the-DoorTechnique Using a Courtship Request

GettingBeyond Small Talk: Study Finds People Enjoy Deep Conversations with Strangers

GrammarIs Super Important to Online Dating Sites, So Try to Speak English Good

Swipe-based dating applications use and its association with mental health outcomes: a cross-sectional study

()DateSmarter: A Strategic Guide to Navigating Modern Romance

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How to Find "The One": The Science of Dating with Tim Molnar — Podcst