Intimacy, Breakups, and Dating in the Real World: A Conversation with Dr. Justin Garcia

About this episode

In this episode, Dr. Justin Garcia discusses the complexities of modern relationships, including intimacy, breakups, and the impact of technology on dating.

Dating and relationships have never been simple — but in today's world of apps, algorithms, and endless options, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and disconnected. In this episode, I speak with Dr. Justin Garcia, Executive Director of the Kinsey Institute, evolutionary biologist, sex researcher, and author of the upcoming book The Intimate Animal . We talk about what our biology can (and can't) tell us about love and desire, how technology is reshaping intimacy, and why breakups can hit so hard. We also get personal — sharing stories about grief, recovery, non-monogamy, and navigating love in the real world. Dr. Garcia brings a refreshingly nuanced perspective, blending science, lived experience, and a deep respect for the complexities of modern relationships. Topics Covered The biological basis of pair bonding and why love is a survival strategy How dating apps are changing the way we connect — and the pitfalls of infinite choice Non-monogamy, open relationships, and what science really says about them Breakups, heartbreak, and why they feel like addiction withdrawal Infidelity: what motivates it, and why it's often about secrecy more than sex Practical dating advice backed by…

People in this episode

Host: Robert Duff, Ph.D.

Guest: Dr. Justin Garcia

Topics covered

• intimacy
• dating
• breakups
• non-monogamy
• technology and relationships
• biological basis of love
• neuroscience of attraction

Keywords

• dating apps
• pair bonding
• heartbreak
• infidelity
• open relationships
• communication
• attraction

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Kinsey Institute

Books & works: The Intimate Animal

More episodes of The Hardcore Self-Help Podcast with Duff the Psych

• The Secrets of Good Daughtering with Dr. Allison Alford · February 17, 2026 · 58 min
• Compassionate and Effective Schizophrenia Care with Dr. Tracy Hicks · January 20, 2026 · 1h 4m
• I Am Determined. · January 12, 2026 · 17 min
• A New Approach to OCD: Internal Family Systems w/ Melissa Mose · November 10, 2025 · 1h 17m
• Celeb Chef Chris Valdes on Mental Health in Kitchens · November 3, 2025 · 1h 3m
• Dr. Andrea Martinez Talks Gangs, Loss, Depression, and Learning Discernment. · October 10, 2025 · 1h 15m