Armstrong & Getty On Demand: "If You Need Advice on Love..."

Release Date: July 10, 2025
Host: Jack Armstrong & Joe Getty
Platform: iHeartPodcasts

Introduction to Timeless Love Advice

In the episode titled "If You Need Advice on Love...", hosts Jack Armstrong and Joe Getty delve into the enduring principles of human relationships by exploring ancient wisdom. They kick off the discussion by contrasting conservative and progressive views on human nature, referencing Thomas Sowell's A Conflict of Visions. Jack emphasizes his agreement with the conservative perspective that "human nature has not changed in thousands of years" (00:50), setting the stage for their exploration of age-old dating advice.

Ancient Dating Tips from Ovid

The conversation shifts to the Roman poet Ovid and his seminal work, Ars Amatoria (02:00). Ovid's practical advice for singles remains surprisingly relevant today:

• Active Pursuit: Ovid states, "your lover will not come floating down to you through the tenuous air. She must be sought" (02:10). Joe humorously adds, "You're not gonna run into Mr. Right sitting here in the living room watching television" (02:25), highlighting the timeless need for proactive effort in finding love.

• Suitable Venues: The hosts discuss recommended places to meet potential partners, such as porticos, gardens, theaters, and even law courts. Jack remarks, "Ancient advice hasn't changed an iota" (02:45), underscoring the consistency of effective social settings across millennia.

• Presentation and Grooming: Ovid emphasizes the importance of looking presentable. "Make sure your clothes are clean. You have a good haircut" (03:57) serves as a reminder that personal hygiene and appearance remain crucial in attracting a partner.

• Sober Judgement: Seeking love during the daytime is advised to avoid poor choices influenced by inebriation: "Be careful of the night. You won't choose the right person if you're drunk" (03:20).

The Power of Love in Motivation and Virtue

Jack and Joe transition to discussing the profound impact of love on personal motivation and societal virtues, drawing from ancient sources:

• Love as a Motivator: Jack asserts, "For a man, a good man, the desire to not disappoint his woman is the most powerful motivator that's ever existed on earth" (07:00). This sentiment reflects the idea that love inspires individuals to strive for excellence and personal growth.

• Ancient Military Insights: Referencing the Roman writer Claudius Alien, Jack notes, "Soldiers who are in love will fight better than soldiers who are not in love" (06:30). This highlights the belief that having someone to love enhances bravery and commitment.

• Spartan Customs: The hosts discuss Spartan punishments for men who remained single, emphasizing that "lovers' affection for their beloved has a remarkable power of stimulating the virtues" (07:17). This underscores the societal value placed on romantic relationships in fostering personal and communal virtues.

Modern Parallels and Societal Reflections

The dialogue seamlessly bridges ancient insights with contemporary societal trends:

• Online Relationships: Jack draws a parallel between ancient matchmakers and modern dating platforms like Match.com (05:59), suggesting that despite technological advancements, the fundamental challenges of finding genuine connections persist.

• Impact of Technology on Relationships: The hosts reflect on Gen Z's "useful idiot generation" label, attributing youthful radicalism to a lack of traditional romantic bonds and the prevalence of online interactions (07:26). This observation points to societal shifts affecting interpersonal relationships.

Humorous Interludes and Cultural References

Interwoven with serious discussions, Armstrong and Getty infuse humor to keep the conversation engaging:

• Ancient Love Rivalries: The story of Gaius Memmius taking a bite out of a rival's arm over a girlfriend (12:00) serves as a comedic yet illustrative example of the lengths to which emotions can drive behavior.

• Rodney Dangerfield Joke: The mention of a "Rodney Dangerfield" style joke, albeit cut for being too coarse (13:40), adds a lighthearted touch, emphasizing the varied nature of love-related humor.

Conclusion: The Unchanging Nature of Human Relationships

Wrapping up, Jack reiterates the central theme: "human nature does not change" (12:25). By examining ancient texts and comparing them to modern experiences, Armstrong and Getty affirm that the core aspects of love, attraction, and relationship dynamics remain consistent throughout history. This timelessness underscores the enduring relevance of ancient wisdom in navigating the complexities of love today.

Notable Quotes:

• "Your lover will not come floating down to you through the tenuous air. She must be sought." – Jack Armstrong [02:10]

• "For a man, a good man, the desire to not disappoint his woman is the most powerful motivator that's ever existed on earth." – Jack Armstrong [07:00]

• "Soldiers who are in love will fight better than soldiers who are not in love." – Jack Armstrong [06:30]

This episode of Armstrong & Getty On Demand offers listeners a rich exploration of love advice that transcends time, blending historical insights with modern-day relevance and humor. Whether you're seeking ancient wisdom or contemporary perspectives, Armstrong and Getty provide a compelling discussion on the unchanging nature of human relationships.