In this episode, Keya McClain the Poet and Shimeka the DAR Therapist unpack what it really means to unlearn survival mode in love. So many of us learned to protect, perform, or please as a way to stay safe - not realizing those same habits can sabotage intimacy, trust, and peace.

Together, they explore how trauma responses show up as control, hyper-independence, or emotional distance, and how healing requires learning to receive love instead of sight for it.

This conversation is about learning to rest in relationships, not just survive them - and how true connection starts when safety becomes internal, not conditional. It’s time to stop surviving love and start experiencing it

Love sounds good until real life hits the budget. 💔💸In this episode of Date, Affirm, the Real, Marcus and Don ask the questions most people avoid — should you even be dating if your finances aren’t where you want them to be?Is being honest about money early a sign of maturity or a relationship red flag? And can love still grow when your bank account’s catching up to your heart?Join the conversation as we unpack financial vulnerability, pride, timing, and truth in today’s dating world. Because sometimes, being “ready for love” means more than just emotional connection — it’s about alignment, transparency, and real priorities.

Are men and women really the problem—or are we just fighting the wrong fight?In this episode of Date, Affirm, The Real, hosts Marcus Goodwin and Don (Jr. Lily) sit down to unpack the tension between men and women in today’s dating and relationship culture. We share our real thoughts and experiences on how negative views fuel division, and what it takes to shift the focus toward understanding, respect, and true connection.