80: Beyond the Rules | A Better Way to Date

In this episode of Beyond What Hurts Us, Kristen and Leslie take a fresh look at the early 2000s dating advice phenomenon He's Just Not That Into You. While the book was intended to empower women to recognize when a man isn’t invested, we discuss why its message falls short in today’s dating landscape.

We explore how the book places all the emphasis on whether he is interested—without ever asking if she is. It also ignores the emotional complexity of relationships, failing to acknowledge the very real grief that can come with the end of a relationship or even a situationship.

At the heart of our conversation is a call for a more compassionate and nuanced approach to dating—one that prioritizes mutual respect, emotional honesty, and treating others the way we want to be treated. Whether you’re navigating dating disappointments or seeking healthier connections, this episode offers hope, guidance, and a much-needed reframe.