Podcast Summary: "The Date My Podcast" - Episode 4: Ashton
Title: The Date My Podcast
Host: Jessica Walter
Episode: Episode 4: Ashton
Release Date: January 28, 2025
Introduction
In Episode 4 of "The Date My Podcast," host Jessica Walter continues Season One by setting up an intriguing on-air date between Kyle Lampe, the season's "Dater," and Ashton Swinford, an independent and multifaceted actress, writer, producer, and director. The episode delves into the complexities of modern dating, past relationships, and the quest for meaningful connections.
Meet Kyle Lampe
The episode opens with Jessica welcoming Kyle, who shares that he recently attended a dear friend's wedding in Solvang. Kyle reflects on the experience, noting, "I got to wear my suit for the second time in my life. It was a great time. Weddings are nice." (00:45). He expresses his desire to get married someday, stating, "Yes, I do want to get married. To a lovely young lady." (01:26).
Meet Ashton Swinford
Ashton is introduced as Kyle's date, whom Jessica had met years prior at a friend's birthday party. Ashton captivated Jessica with her strong presence on social media, describing her as "the definition of like a bad bitch. Because she's independent [and] funny." (02:36). Ashton agrees to join the show, unaware of Kyle's past with Jessica.
Initial Interaction and Awkward Revelation
Ashton arrives and the atmosphere becomes tense when she learns that Kyle was previously engaged to Jessica. Ashton remarks, "I thought I told you. I had no idea the premise." (04:09). The revelation adds a layer of complexity to the date, highlighting the intertwined relationships and the challenges they bring.
Self-Introductions and Fun Facts
To break the ice, Jessica prompts Ashton and Kyle to introduce themselves with three facts each. Kyle shares, "I accidentally found myself in a 90s DJ group that started out as a joke that turned out to be a kind of a big deal called D.J. Tanner and Uncle Jesse." (16:14) Ashton reveals her background in film, stating, "I produced a TV show for them called the AV Club." (17:26) Their introductions set the stage for understanding their personalities and interests.
One Minute Word Story Exercise
Jessica engages Ashton and Kyle in a creative exercise where they collaboratively build a story about their ideal first date, one word at a time. The attempt results in a humorous yet awkward scenario involving a mall visit and a bathroom encounter:
- Ashton: "First we go to the mall and pick out T shirts and some pants for our next date." (19:16)
- Kyle: "Bathroom. Bathroom at the mall for our first date. This sucks." (20:14)
This playful segment underscores their differing communication styles and sense of humor.
Conflict Scenario Discussion
Jessica presents a hypothetical conflict situation to Ashton and Kyle to assess their compatibility: Scenario: Kyle is invited to DJ a wedding where his ex-girlfriend is a bridesmaid and is asked to bring his new girlfriend or not.
- Ashton advises, "I would let him make the decision as to if he chose to have me there or not." (28:02)
- Kyle recounts his real-life experience, emphasizing a pragmatic approach: "I don't remember even having the option to have a person. It was just a business trip to me." (31:59)
Their responses highlight their approaches to communication and handling past relationships.
Relationship Qualities and Bad Habits
In a reflective segment, Ashton and Kyle discuss their best qualities and areas they are working to improve in relationships:
- Kyle: "My best quality is the ability to really read people... A bad habit is when I feel misunderstood, I shut down and can be very cold." (33:29)
- Ashton: "I'm a very passionate person... A negative trait is that I do get anxious and have to overcommunicate my needs." (35:55)
They emphasize the importance of emotional intelligence and communication in fostering healthy relationships.
Spicy Questions about Sex and Kinks
Jessica introduces more intimate topics, discussing the role of sex in relationships and individual preferences:
- Ashton: "To me, sex is very important. It's a lot. Chemistry is almost the most important factor." (37:36)
- Kyle: "Sex is the glue... It's a specific language that you only speak with that one person." (38:06)
They also touch upon their sexual preferences, with Ashton being open to exploring while Kyle prefers a straightforward approach, highlighting their compatibility and differing perspectives on intimacy.
Final Thoughts and Feedback
As the episode progresses, Ashton and Kyle provide honest feedback about each other:
- Ashton on Kyle: "He's cute... He seems very emotionally intelligent." (47:20)
- Kyle on Ashton: "I think she's really cool... She's got good humor." (54:34)
Their mutual respect and understanding are evident, despite the initial awkwardness, suggesting potential for a meaningful connection.
Conclusion
Episode 4 of "The Date My Podcast" offers a candid and humorous exploration of dating dynamics, past relationships, and the search for compatibility. Through engaging conversation, playful exercises, and honest reflections, Jessica Walter successfully navigates the complexities of setting up an on-air date that resonates with listeners seeking authentic human connections.
Notable Quotes:
- Kyle Lampe (00:45): "I got to wear my suit for the second time in my life. It was a great time. Weddings are nice."
- Ashton Swinford (02:36): "She's funny. She's got good humor."
- Kyle Lampe (17:54): "I accidentally found myself in a 90s DJ group that started out as a joke that turned out to be a kind of a big deal called D.J. Tanner and Uncle Jesse."
- Ashton Swinford (33:30): "I'm a very passionate person. I love to love."
- Kyle Lampe (38:06): "Sex is the glue... It's a specific language that you only speak with that one person."
- Ashton Swinford (47:21): "He's very cute. I could see why you liked him."
For those who haven't tuned in, this episode serves as a delightful blend of humor, honesty, and heartfelt moments, encapsulating the essence of "The Date My Podcast" and its mission to foster genuine human connections in the modern dating landscape.