The Sociology of...Everything
The Sociology of...Everything Podcast
Career vs dating? Navigating "mixed-collar" dating?
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Career vs dating? Navigating "mixed-collar" dating?

Your dating questions, answered.

Hello, fellow observers. Today I’m here to answer your dating-related questions via audio. (A reminder to submit your relationship questions here for next month.)

The first Sociology of…Dating question comes from Leslie in Las Vegas. She asks:

​​I'm 34, single, semi-successful, and definitely cash poor. Should I abandon the idea of dating and focus on getting my bag? Or should I date an "alpha male"? I'm the first woman in my family to reach middle age with formal education, no kids, no husband. I'm grateful to be independent, but I'm navigating new waters. 

What's the dating advice for someone who is reaching 35 this year and wants to find love with someone who is financially sophisticated — because I am not. Is too late for me to start a nuclear family?

Thank you for your thoughtful question, Leslie (and for the terrific addition to the Dating Anthems playlist, which I’ll share next week; submit yours here!) The details of Leslie’s story are highly relatable for many women (and possibly someone you know). Career vs. Dating - are the two at odds? What to prioritize in a partner? Is it time to settle? Listen to my answer and let me know if you agree.

The second question comes from Will in Ohio. He asks: 

I’m a shy guy and not always the best at reading women’s signals. I’m 29, decent looking, average height, and make good money, but I work in construction and never went to college. What’s your advice for approaching women who all seem to want men with a different background than me? 

This question is extremely relevant to the conversation I had with Jon Birger of Date-onomics last week, and there is a solution — have a listen (or read the transcript).

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The Sociology of...Everything
The Sociology of...Everything Podcast
Notice more to live better with sociologist and author Anna Akbari.