35. From First Impression to First Date with Matchmaker Daniel Cooley

On this episode of Flirtations, we're going from first impression to first date, y'all!

Let's set the scene. You walk into a party. A singles event. Networking get together. Really any social situation where you're looking to mix 'n mingle ... and maybe come away with a first date at the end of it all! This is where today's episode takes place!

As we answer questions like ...

How can you break the ice? Do first impressions really matter as much as we think?

What are some conversation tips? What if the person that caught your eye is always with other people, what are strategies to introduce yourself that seem natural?

How can you turn someone down that expresses interest in you, but you don't feel the same way?

What are some ways to manage social anxiety and feel more confident? 

What about asking for their number and setting up a date?

How about flirting tricks?!

All of this and MORE is waiting for you inside this episode as we welcome expert matchmaker Daniel Cooley on the show for this conversation!

Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Flirtations on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to spread BFE - big flirt energy, all over the world!

About our guest:  Daniel Cooley is a celebrity gay matchmaker, executive love recruiter, co-owner of Best Man Matchmaking for queer and gay men based in Los Angeles, CA. You can learn more about Daniel and ways to work with him on his website and Instagram!

Thirteen years ago, Daniel founded “The Thrive Tribe,” a nonprofit organization in West Hollywood dedicated to combating the stigma of HIV and AIDS while supporting Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer men in accessing PrEP.  

Known as “The Divine Connector,” Daniel transformed a small group into a vibrant community of thousands, helping many find meaningful gay relationships.  

With over a decade of experience as a massage therapist, Daniel primarily served GBTQ clients, forming deep connections and witnessing firsthand the loneliness and struggles some face in their search for love.  

In 2023, after connecting hundreds of gay men through his nonprofit and massage practice, Daniel met Anthony through retired Gay Matchmaker Mason Glen. Inspired by their successful collaborations, Daniel embraced the role of Matchmaker. With a unique blend of expertise in nonprofit work, real estate, entertainment, massage therapy, and spirituality, he is devoted to fostering conscious, queer connections for men ready to find their perfect match!

About your host:  Benjamin is a flirt and dating coach sharing his love of flirting and BFE - big flirt energy, with the world! A lifelong introvert and socially anxious member of society, Benjamin now helps singles and daters alike flirt with more confidence, clarity, and fun!

As the flirt is all about connection, Benjamin helps the flirt community (the flirties!) date from a place that allows the value of connection in all forms - platonic and romantic connection - to take center stage and transform lives for greater healing and ultimately, a deeper connection with the self.

You can connect with Benjamin on Instagram, TikTok, stream the Flirtations Flirtcast everywhere you listen to podcasts (like right here!), and find out more about working together 1:1 here.

💗 Happy flirting!