In this episode of the Strong New York Podcast, host Kenny Santucci sits down with longtime friend and multifaceted entrepreneur Ben Hart to discuss career reinvention, modern dating, and relationship dynamics. From his early days in fitness and startups to becoming a dating expert, dating coach, and author, Ben shares his unconventional career journey and what inspired his shift into dating advice and relationship coaching. The conversation dives into early-stage dating, dating psychology, communication in relationships, and how social media, dating apps, and technology have transformed the way people connect and build relationships. Ben also breaks down how TikTok became his platform for viral dating content, the inspiration behind his book Starting at Zero, and his candid, no-nonsense take on the challenges of dating in today’s digital world.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:50 Benny Hart's Career Journey

02:59 Writing the Book: Starting at Zero

04:12 Transition to Dating Expert

05:15 TikTok Success and Viral Moments

07:37 Insights on Authenticity and Content Creation

11:02 The Role of a Trainer in Understanding People

13:47 Dating in New York City

16:44 Live Streams and Audience Engagement

20:14 Navigating Early Stage Dating

20:52 Identity Frameworks in Decision Making

21:25 Societal Pressures and Dating Challenges

22:41 Over-Influence and Information Overload

24:47 The Human Aspect of Meeting People

26:22 Fear and Dating Apps

27:55 Common Sense Dating Advice

29:30 Men vs. Women: Different Dating Advice

30:22 The Impact of Social Media on Dating

34:57 Balancing Interest and Overexcitement