Episode Summary: "Decisions, Decisions" Ep 408: Dating is a MESS (Ft. Sydnee & Marie)

Release Date: February 17, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 408 of "Decisions, Decisions," hosts Mandii B and WeezyWTF delve into the chaotic landscape of modern dating, particularly focusing on the concept of "dating being a mess." Joined by guests Sydnee and Marie, the conversation navigates through the complexities of non-traditional relationships, the pitfalls of side relationships, and the intentional shifts individuals make in their dating lives as they mature into their 30s.

1. Current Dating Situations

The episode opens with the hosts and guests sharing their current relationship statuses, setting the stage for a candid discussion about their personal experiences in the dating sphere.

• Sydnee shares, “I'm dating to have a good time. If I meet somebody that I feel like I'm not even gonna say checks the boxes. Cause what is a box? You know, they can check the box” (04:02).

• Reezy reflects on her past, mentioning, “During the pandemic and before that, I was very monogamous, like a serial dater. So I went to LA, I came back, I had some fun, and I am dating someone” (07:07).

2. Defining and Discussing Side Chicks

A significant portion of the conversation centers around the concept of being a "side chick." The hosts and guests explore the emotional and ethical implications of engaging in relationships where one party is already committed elsewhere.

• Mandii B poses a critical question: “But why do you want someone else's man?” (26:29).

• WeezyWTF adds, “I don't think there's any other reason to be a side chick because as a woman, you will start becoming emotionally involved with that” (30:39).

The discussion highlights the inherent instability and emotional strain of side relationships, emphasizing that such arrangements are often rooted in delusion and toxicity.

3. The Role of Social Media in Modern Relationships

The hosts and guests critique how social media platforms influence relationship dynamics, particularly regarding privacy and the sharing of intimate moments.

• Reezy laments, “It's a violation if you send a guy that you're talking to a photo of yourself. Cause that's technically private and technically intimate” (08:24).

• Mandy B emphasizes the importance of maintaining boundaries, stating, “If you're dating, you guys should not be following each other. And even sometimes I feel like you shouldn't follow your friends because what people are posting now you're doing too much” (09:03).

The conversation underscores the challenges of navigating relationships in an era where personal moments are frequently broadcasted online, often leading to misunderstandings and breaches of trust.

4. Intentional Dating in Your 30s vs. Your 20s

Transitioning from the pitfalls of casual dating and side relationships, the hosts discuss the intentional changes they adopt as they enter their 30s. The focus shifts to self-improvement, setting healthy boundaries, and prioritizing personal well-being over chaotic relationship dynamics.

• Reezy candidly shares, “I'm trying to work on me. I just want to be good for me. I don't care about the people per se, anymore. I just want to show up for me” (49:40).

• Mandii B reflects on her younger years, saying, “In my 20s, it was less responsibility for me and how I showed up in the relationship, and it was just easier to be number two because I didn't feel like there was the pressure for me to show up and be perfect” (26:34).

This segment highlights a mature approach to dating, where the emphasis is on personal growth, intentionality, and fostering healthy, fulfilling relationships.

5. Personal Insights and Conclusions

As the episode wraps up, the hosts and guests offer final thoughts on how they navigate the messy terrain of dating. They emphasize the importance of self-awareness, setting clear intentions, and avoiding toxic relationship patterns.

• Sydnee concludes, “Once you're a little bit older, you start building community and happiness in other ways, whereas when you're younger, you're like, oh, I have to get married, get a good job, so I gotta find a partner” (46:12).

• Mandii B urges listeners to make intentional decisions, stating, “Leaving the situation. Don't get a man. Then why do you want someone else's man” (26:29).

The episode underscores the essence of making informed and intentional decisions in love and relationships, advocating for authentic connections over fleeting, chaotic encounters.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Sydnee: “I'm dating to have a good time. If I meet somebody that I feel like I'm not even gonna say checks the boxes. Cause what is a box? You know, they can check the box” (04:02).

• Reezy: “During the pandemic and before that, I was very monogamous, like a serial dater. So I went to LA, I came back, I had some fun, and I am dating someone” (07:07).

• Mandii B: “But why do you want someone else's man?” (26:29).

• WeezyWTF: “I don't think there's any other reason to be a side chick because as a woman, you will start becoming emotionally involved with that” (30:39).

• Reezy: “I'm trying to work on me. I just want to be good for me. I don't care about the people per se, anymore. I just want to show up for me” (49:40).

• Mandii B: “In my 20s, it was less responsibility for me and how I showed up in the relationship, and it was just easier to be number two because I didn't feel like there was the pressure for me to show up and be perfect” (26:34).

Conclusion

Episode 408 of "Decisions, Decisions" offers a raw and honest exploration of the tumultuous world of dating, especially as one transitions into their 30s. Through engaging dialogue and personal anecdotes, Mandii B, WeezyWTF, Sydnee, and Marie provide listeners with valuable insights into navigating relationships with intention, avoiding the pitfalls of side dynamics, and prioritizing self-growth over chaotic romantic entanglements. This episode serves as a compelling guide for anyone looking to reshape their understanding of love and connection in today's complex social landscape.

For more episodes and insights, tune in to "Decisions, Decisions" on your favorite podcast platform or visit their YouTube channel.