Podcast Summary: The Dating Detectives Episode – "Friends to Lovers to...Dogfish?"
Podcast Information:
- Title: The Dating Detectives
- Host/Author: Dear Media
- Episode: Friends to Lovers to...Dogfish?
- Release Date: April 7, 2025
Introduction
In this riveting episode of The Dating Detectives, hosts Mackenzie Fultz and Hanna Anderson delve into a profoundly personal and heart-wrenching story shared by their guest, Nick. Titled "Friends to Lovers to...Dogfish?", this episode explores the depths of deception, emotional betrayal, and the ensuing mental health struggles that arise when trust is shattered in a long-term relationship.
Guest Introduction: Nick’s Story
The episode begins with Mackenzie and Hanna introducing their guest, Nick, highlighting the rarity of male guests in their series. They emphasize Nick's willingness to share his deeply personal and traumatic experience, setting the stage for an engaging and empathetic discussion.
- Mackenzie (00:57): "We always wonder, like, why don't guys tell their stories more? And I really liked talking to this guest today..."
Nick’s Relationship with Jen
Nick recounts his relationship with Jen, a woman he met through mutual friends during his time working on his uncle's cattle farm. Their bond grew over years of partying and friendship, eventually evolving into a long-distance relationship filled with daily communication and intermittent visits.
- Nick (04:30): "So I think you'll like it... He’s a dude."
The Deception Unfolds: Jen’s Secret Life
The crux of Nick's story reveals that while maintaining their relationship, Jen was secretly engaged and had a child with her husband, Mark. Nick discovers this devastating truth unexpectedly through a Facebook post announcing the birth of their son, which Jen had meticulously hidden from him for over a decade.
- Nick (50:55): "So then obviously I noticed she was tagged in it, and they're announcing the birth of their son, and his birthday would be late August of 2019."
Emotional and Mental Health Impact
The revelation plunges Nick into a severe emotional crisis, leading to insomnia, significant weight loss, and heavy drinking as he grapples with the betrayal. He discusses his descent into depression, suicidal ideation, and the eventual seeking of therapy as a lifeline.
- Nick (66:25): "I did admit my situation, that I'm not getting any better, and this is in fact really, really bad."
- Catherine (71:14): "And it's not weak to show vulnerability or sadness or intimacy."
Support Systems and Recovery
Nick credits his family—particularly his sisters and mother—for providing essential support during his darkest moments. Through their encouragement, he begins therapy, which plays a pivotal role in his healing process. The hosts commend Nick’s resilience and the importance of seeking help.
- Nick (72:45): "So I made the choice. I finally, like, I'm gonna go see about, like, some anxiety medication or something."
Reflection and Insights from Hosts
Mackenzie and Hanna reflect on Nick's story, emphasizing the profound impact of deception in relationships and the critical role of mental health support. They discuss the societal stigmas surrounding mental health, especially for men, and advocate for greater openness and support systems.
- Mackenzie (92:34): "Mental health is health. Sexual health is health."
- Catherine (80:02): "Everybody."
Decision to Inform Jen’s Husband
Struggling with feelings of betrayal and a desire for closure, Nick contemplates informing Jen’s husband about her deceit. He wrestles with the moral implications of this action, balancing his need for truth with compassion for Mark, Jen’s husband.
- Nick (80:52): "I just need somebody to kind of nudge him."
- Catherine (82:12): "But no, I get that's a very hard."
Conclusion and Call to Action
As the episode wraps up, the hosts express deep empathy for Nick and reinforce the importance of sharing such stories to foster a supportive community. They encourage listeners, especially men, to share their experiences and seek help when dealing with similar betrayals and mental health challenges.
- Mackenzie (94:47): "And you brought yourself out of it is insane. So good for you."
- Catherine (97:44): "What can we learn as we move forward?"
Notable Quotes with Timestamps:
- Mackenzie (00:57): "We always wonder, like, why don't guys tell their stories more?"
- Nick (50:55): "So then obviously I noticed she was tagged in it, and they're announcing the birth of their son..."
- Catherine (71:14): "And it's not weak to show vulnerability or sadness or intimacy."
- Mackenzie (92:34): "Mental health is health. Sexual health is health."
- Nick (80:52): "I just need somebody to kind of nudge him."
Final Thoughts
"Friends to Lovers to...Dogfish?" is a powerful episode that sheds light on the intricate and often painful dynamics of trust and deception in relationships. Through Nick’s candid recounting, Mackenzie and Hanna provide a platform for healing and awareness, encouraging listeners to recognize red flags and prioritize their mental well-being. This episode serves as a poignant reminder of the profound effects that deceit can have on an individual's life and the importance of support and honesty in the dating world.
Join the Conversation
Listeners are encouraged to share their own stories and experiences on the podcast’s social media channels or via email at investigate@thedatingdetectivespodcast.com. Additionally, support the podcast by joining their Patreon or purchasing merchandise available until Wednesday through the links provided in the show notes.
End of Summary