EP 41: Am I in a Situationship? Why It’s So Hard to Walk Away

Let's talk about that person you keep going back to even though you know better! In this raw, vulnerable solo episode, I'm sharing my 18-month situationship saga—the hot and cold dynamic, the false promises, and the moment I finally closed the door for good on January 1st.

If you've ever felt confused about where you stand, made excuses for inconsistent behavior, or held onto hope that "this time will be different," this episode is your permission slip to want more.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:

• The 4 types of situationships (and which one keeps you most hooked)
• Why we confuse intensity with intimacy—and how that keeps us stuck
• The psychology behind anxious-avoidant dynamics in undefined relationships
• How to assess your non-negotiables before having "the talk"
• The three-month rule: when to define the relationship or walk away
• Why "if he wanted to, he would" isn't harsh—it's honest
• How dating other people can open to yours to what you were settling for

"Staying in a situationship where there's a lack of clarity is you also choosing uncertainty just on the other side. So what's harder? Sitting in the uncertainty with someone where you're not sure where this is ever going to go, or having the conversation and receiving the clarity you need and potentially then experiencing the uncertainty of no longer being in the situationship? The latter opens you up to then actually meeting someone and dating someone who could be a much better match for you long term."

- Madden Zappa

CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST: MADDEN ZAPPA

Madden Zappa is a dating and relationship coach who helps people recognize and break the patterns that keep them dating the same person over and over again. Through her podcast "We're Dating the Same Guy," Madden combines vulnerable personal stories with practical frameworks to help listeners date smarter, healthier, and more intentionally. Her approach is refreshingly honest—she's willing to share her own uncomfortable truths and dating mistakes to help others avoid the same cycles. With expertise in attachment styles, dating psychology, and relationship patterns, Madden creates content that speaks to the late-night Google searches we're all too afraid to admit we're making.

Madden's Instagram: ⁠@maddenzappa⁠

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