This one’s personal. Think of it as my dear diary moment. Raw, real, and unfiltered.
In this episode, I’m sharing:
If you’ve ever felt deflated, frustrated, or just over the healing grind, this episode will hit home.
You’re not alone… and maybe it’s time we stop trying so hardto make sense of it all.
Did this episode resonate with you? Let me know as I have something I'm planning that you may want to be part of!
Connect with Vanessa Maree @vanessamaree_wingwoman
Follow the podcast page @singleandnotsettling.podcast
Or share this episode with a friend who might need to hear it today!
In this grounding and vulnerable conversation, Vanessa Mareesits down with Brad Barnett, a fire dancer, speaker, and man on a mission to be “a beacon of hope for women who have bad stories.”
Brad opens up about his past, including a pivotal momentthat changed how he shows up in relationships and life. He shares his journey from old patterns to self-awareness, and how choosing celibacy has helped him reconnect with his values and purpose.
Together, they unpack:
- What men really mean when they say they’re “too busy”or avoid emotional honesty.
- The importance of communication, respect, and taking accountability.
- Why women should honour themselves as divine beings — the portal of life — and stay discerning in who they allow into their energy.
- What it looks like when a man is genuinely doing the innerwork.
This conversation is a reminder that good men do exist…(evenVanessa Maree was a little lost for words at the end!!) and that healing and respect can come from both sides.
Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about growth, integrity, and the power of self-respect in modern dating and connection.
Connect with Brad and book him for private events:
💌 If you loved this episode, I’d love for you to:
Connect with Vanessa Maree @vanessamaree_wingwoman
Follow the podcast page @singleandnotsettling.podcast
Or share this episode with a friend who might need to hear it today!
"God showed you who they are — the next step is yours.”That’s the quote Vanessa Maree is unpacking in today’s episode, along with other ways closure may come to you.This episode isn’t just about dating, but it is about heartbreak, the kind we don’t often talk about: losing friendships.In this honest and heartfelt chat, Vanessa Maree opens up about:- The grief of outgrowing friendships as we grow into new versions of ourselves.- Realising when you have been removed from social media without notice.- Reflecting and identifying other ways closure comes to you, that is not a conversation or reasons why. Its the unspoken and observations that appear.- How to hold the faith by envisioning what you do want your friendships to look and feel like, and creating affirmations to lean on when the grief hits.By the end of this episode, you’ll feel less alone, lighter, and more anchored in your worth. Because not everyone is meant to walk with you into your next chapter and that’s okay.So grab a tea, or pop in your headphones on your walk, and let’s talk about the friendships that end… and the freedom that comes after.
💌 If you loved this episode, I’d love for you to:
Connect with Vanessa Maree @vanessamaree_wingwoman
Follow the podcast page @singleandnotsettling.podcast
Or share this episode with a friend who might need to hear it today!
This episode is part two of my beautiful conversation with Lara Bokovay, where we continue diving deep into the energetic side of dating, intimacy, and connection.We explore:
One of my favorite moments from our chat was when Lara asked “What does it feel like to be loved the way you want to be loved?”This episode is an invitation to reflect, trust, and lean into the deeper layers of love and connection.💌 If you haven’t listened to Part One yet, make sure you go back and catch it first!
This episode is your reminder that it’s okay to be single, it’s okay to wait, and it’s okay to hold onto the vision of the love you truly desire.
I sit down with coach, intuitive, and psychic Lara Bokovay, who shares her raw and inspiring journey of walking away from a five-year marriage, choosing celibacy for five years, and doing the deep inner work to heal her wounds and reconnect with her authentic self.
In this conversation, we explore:
Most importantly, Lara shares her passionate belief in being patient and uncompromising when it comes to love. Her words are a permission slip for every single woman listening.
“Hold the vision of what you want for yourself, there is no compromise”
“Acknowledge the ‘not right now,’ and keep living your life. What is meant for you will not pass you by.”
This episode is for the woman who needs the reminder that solitude is better than settling, that self-worth is found within, and that the right partner will meet you with clear intentions when the timing is divine.
Stay tuned for Part 2 of this conversation!
💌 If this conversation spoke to you:
Connect with Lara Bokovay and find out more about her work here: https://www.larabokovay.com/
Connect with your host Vanessa Maree on Instagram @vanessamaree_wingwoman
Follow the podcast page @singleandnotsettling.podcast
Share this episode with a friend who needs the reminder not to settle!
In this solo episode, I’m giving you an update on my recent singles event, sharing how Reiki has been a game-changer for opening my heart again, and revealing a little Hinge hack that has men sending the first message (yes, it’s actually working!).
Singles Events Update!
I talk about the beautiful connections that happen when people come together without pressure or expectation, like how walking in nature and not needing constant eye contact can ease nerves and open up real conversations. I share a story about a woman who hadn’t been on a date in a long time, and how just having a genuine chat with a man helped her build confidence again.
I also address one of the biggest misconceptions: that you’ll instantly meet your future husband at a singles event. Instead, I invite you to shift your perspective, these events are about opportunities. You might meet a new friend, a business collaborator, or another woman who becomes your wingwoman. By letting go of rigid expectations, you open yourself up to receiving exactly what you need in the moment.
Reiki Update!
Reiki has been paramount in my own journey of opening my heart. I share how Reiki helps dissolve stuck emotions, unblock your energy, and create space for connection. Beyond Reiki, I touch on other ways to open your heart, through kindness, compassion, gratitude, and simply being of service to others.
Finally, I share a fun discovery on the Hinge dating app: the way you word just one prompt can completely change the dynamic and make men feel safe enough to message you first. This little tweak has already been working for me, and I’ll tell you exactly how.
💌 If you loved this episode, I’d love for you to:
Connect with Vanessa Maree @vanessamaree_wingwoman
Follow the podcast page @singleandnotsettling.podcast Or share this episode with a friend who might need to hear it today!
In this heart-opening chat, Vanessa Maree interviews Ash Edelman, mindset coach and breathwork facilitator, to explore what it means to be a man today, how we heal through relationships, and a reminder that good men do exist (yes, really).
Heads up: There are a few minor audio dropouts – Ash was calling in from Dubai!
What we dive into:
Connect with Ash for mindset coaching, breathwork sessions or attend his private events find him here: @consciously_ash
Connect with Vanessa Maree @vanessamaree_wingwoman Check out my latest event for singles or book in a Reiki session!
Single and Not Settling is now on Instagram! Head over to @singleandnotsettling.podcast to stay up to date with episode releases and your hit of dating empowerment!
In this episode, Vanessa Maree is joined by the radiant Isabelle Prestia. Isabelle is a social media and marketing coach & NLP Practitioner and the founder and host of her own podcast, Start Somewhere. In this episode, she shares her deeply personal journey of calling off her engagement just 12 months ago after a whirlwind romance that saw her engaged within six months.
Isabelle opens up about the control she experienced, the signs she ignored, and how pushing through discomfort led to the unravelling of her relationship. We talk about:
- Recognizing pink flags early on and not brushing them aside.
- Trusting your intuition even when you’re being gaslit or betrayed.
- The bravery it takes to choose yourself and walk away from what you thought you wanted.
- Healing after heartbreak and handling the moment the rug is pulled out from underneath you.And of course, we get into Isabelle’s ultimate glow-up—how she turned her pain into power, relocating to a new city, building a life of alignment, and becoming an abundant, magnetic force in her business and personal life. Her story is a beautiful reminder that when we release what no longer serves us, we create space for everything we’re truly meant for.
This episode is for every woman who’s ever felt herself losing her sparkle in love. It’s your reminder to tune into your intuition, hold your standards high, and never forget who you are.
Oh, and wait until you hear Isabelle’s post-breakup theme song—it’s a whole vibe 🔥
Connect with Isabelle on Instagram @isabelle.startsomewhere
More of Isabelle's links and Freebies! Click here
Connect with Vanessa Maree @vanessamaree_wingwoman NEW Event for Singles has been posted! Grab your spot NOW!!
Single and Not Settling is now on Instagram! Head over to @singleandnotsettling.podcast to stay up to date with episode releases and your hit of dating empowerment!
This episode isn’t my usual chat about dating, it’s something deeper.
Today I’m sharing the honest, raw side of personal growth: the real cost of uplevelling.
As women, when we begin working on ourselves, we often don’t expect the ripple effect it has on every part of our lives. We shed layers. Who we were at the beginning of our journey, the friends we leaned on, the standards we accepted for ourselves, they don’t always align with the woman we’re becoming.
We evolve.
In this episode, I talk about:
I hope this conversation feels like a big exhale and a reminder that shedding old versions of yourself is a sign of growth, not failure.
If this episode resonated with you, I’d love for you to share it on your socials, or send it to a friend who’s also on their personal growth journey. Don't forget, if you’re listening on Spotify or Apple, please rate and review, it helps share this message with more women who need to hear they’re not alone.
Single and Not Settling is now on Instagram! Head over to @singleandnotsettling.podcast to stay up to date with episode releases and your hit of dating empowerment.
Connect with Vanessa Maree on Instagram @vanessamaree_wingwoman and don't forget to grab your free eBook "The Empowered Single Woman".
We've hit 30 episodes!
I'm so grateful to every single one of you who has tuned in, shared feedback, or sent me a DM about how this podcast has landed with you. It's what keeps me going, and I’m so excited to bring you this next heart-opening conversation.
In this episode, I’m joined by Phoebe Rogers, a Clinical Psychologist, Couples Therapist, and author of “When Will It Happen for Me?” a book written especially for single women seeking healthy love. Her message is simple yet powerful: To find the relationship you truly deserve, the one that feels safe, mutual, and aligned, you have to start with the one you have with yourself.
This conversation is deep, validating, and full of practical takeaways for any single woman who is tired of being told she’s “too much” or “not enough.”
Together, we dive into:
- What Schema Therapy is and how it helps uncover the patterns and wounds from childhood that shape adult relationships.
- How your inner child might be influencing your dating experiences today.
- What to do when you're stuck blaming your parents (and how to move forward with compassion)
- A beautiful visualisation tool to reparent your younger self and help her feel safe and seen.
- A moment I share where I checked in with “Little V” during a trigger and how I supported myself.
- Why the games and tricks to “win” a man just don’t work long-term.
- Her own story of heartbreak, healing, and why she felt called to write this book, because she believes she’s cracked the code.
- The difference between doing the inner and the outer work in your self-love journey.
Grab your copy of “When Will It Happen for Me?” here: https://www.therelationshipspace.com.au/when-will-it-happen-for-me-book
Connect with Phoebe Rogers on Instagram: [insert handle]
Connect with Vanessa Maree: https://www.instagram.com/vanessamaree_wingwoman/
Follow Single and Not Settling on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/singleandnotsettling.podcast/
Single and Not Settling is now on Instagram! Head over to Instagram and follow @singleandnotsettling.podcast to stay up to date with episode releases and your hit of dating empowerment!This episode is a little different, I was recently interviewed on another podcast, and I knew I had to share it with you too.
This conversation dives into the real, and powerful moments that shaped my journey into personal development, healing, and helping other women do the same.
Whether you're navigating dating, building a life you love, or simply tired of playing small, this one’s for you. Here’s what we cover:
If you would like a copy of my free eBook "The Empowered Single Woman, head over to my Instagram and reach out!
Connect with Vanessa Maree and ask her a question, head on over to vanessamaree_wingwoman
In this bonus episode, I’m announcing something I’ve been working on behind the scenes, and if you’re single and living in Melbourne, you’ll want to hear this!
I’m officially hosting my first singles event on June 15, actually I don’t like calling it a "singles event." This is an event for singles.Here’s what I cover in this episode:
Event details for 15 June are in the link below. Spots are limited, so if this resonates, don’t wait!
And if you know someone this is perfect for, send it their way.
Grab your ticket here
Connect with Vanessa Maree on Instagram
Follow Single and Not Settling on Instagram! @singleandnotsettling.podcast
Single and Not Settling is now on Instagram! Head over to Instagram and follow @singleandnotsettling.podcast to stay up to date with episode releases and your hit of dating empowerment!
In this continuation of my reflections on Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man by Steve Harvey, I dive into the second half of the book, the parts that hit home, and the parts that made me raise an eyebrow (or two). While some of the advice is valuable, other parts…well, let’s just say I have thoughts.
In this episode, I explore:
Want support with your dating standards, mindset, and self-worth? My free eBook The Empowered Single Woman dives deep into all these topics. It’s your go-to guide to help you:
Connect with your host, Vanessa Maree and send a DM to receive your free dating eBook, The Empowered Single Woman
Single and Not Settling is now on Instagram! Head over to Instagram and follow @singleandnotsettling.podcast to stay up to date with episode releases and your hit of dating empowerment!
I've begun reading the book Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man by Steve Harvey….. I have some things to say.
And no — I’m not jaded, I’m just not here for another “here’s how to understand men” guide targeted only at women.
In this episode, I unpack some of the core messages in the book and share my take on why I believe these kinds of resources are missing the mark.
Why are we constantly asked to invest time, energy, and money into understanding men — when we’re rarely met with the same effort in return?
I break down the chapters that suggest men are simple and only need three things (yes, only three!) and why I feel this foundation is based on manipulation and game-playing rather than authentic connection.
I also dig into the categories Steve Harvey says men place women in when they meet us — and what would happen if we flipped that narrative. Spoiler: I don’t think it would go down well.
Plus, I speak from the heart about the Single and Not Settling space. Why I created this community, and why it’s not about being “against men,” but about women finding empowerment in their own journey. This is about doing the work for you, not to fit into someone else’s idea of what you should be.
I give a little shoutout to my new eBook The Empowered Single Woman, a guide to help you reconnect with your values, set powerful standards, and remember your worth!
Oh, and Steve, if you’re listening? Let’s flip the script and co-write a book to help men understand women for once.
This is Part 1 — I’m still reading the book, so stay tuned for more in Part 2.
Connect with your host, Vanessa Maree and send a DM to receive your free dating eBook, The Empowered Single Woman https://www.instagram.com/vanessamaree_wingwoman/
Single and Not Settling is now on Instagram! Head over to Instagram and follow @singleandnotsettling.podcast to stay up to date with episode releases and your hit of dating empowerment!
In this eye-opening episode, Vanessa Maree sits down with Mark Rosenfeld, one of Australia’s most sought-after dating coaches. Featured on global media and radio, Mark brings a grounded, real-talk perspective to modern dating that every woman needs to hear.
What happens when a male dating coach creates a fake female profile on dating apps?
Mark shares how this experiment helped him crack the code to online dating and develop practical tools that help women filter for quality connections from the first message.
Here’s what we covered in this conversation:
- How Mark helps women attract better matches using a structured messaging formula and custom profile design.
- The most common misunderstandings women have about men in dating
- The connection between energy and attraction.
- Why the tone of your messages can make or break the dynamic—and how to guide it effortlessly.
- How to craft profile prompts that make him step up and qualify himself.
- Men and personal development and the gap with men and women.
- His perspective on whether men know what they want (and if they’ve forgotten how to date altogether).
- Why setting standards isn’t enough—you have to embody them first.
- Traits of a high-value man and what to look for.
- What to do when you really like a guy but feel unsure.
And the quote you’ll want to write down:
“Connections with others start with connecting with yourself.” – Mark
We also answer listener questions straight from Vanessa’s Instagram poll.
Want to work with Mark or learn more about his program? You can find him here: https://makehimyours.com.au/
Connect with your host, Vanessa Maree and send me a DM to receive your free dating eBook, The Empowered Single Woman https://www.instagram.com/vanessamaree_wingwoman/
In this solo episode, I open up about what’s been happening in my world over the past two months.....the challenges, the wake-up calls, and the deep self-reflection that’s shifted everything for me.
I share a personal health scare that forced me to take a hard look at my habits, patterns, and the way I was showing up for myself. It made me realize that sometimes, the universe will shake things up for you if you’re not listening.
And when it does, you have two choices: resist it or rise from it.
In this episode, I dive deep into:
✨ The patterns and habits I needed to change around my health, diet, and exercise.
✨ How I found a new level of self-love and self-forgiveness.
✨ Why you need to become obsessed with your life and work toward your desires before the universe forces you to.
✨ The power of mindset shifts and taking full ownership of your journey .
This episode is full of passion, inspiration, and value, I know so many women out there need to hear this. If you’ve ever felt like you’ve been waiting for the ‘right moment’ to go after what you truly want, this is your sign.
🎙️ Plus, exciting news! Single and Not Settling now has its own Instagram page!
Follow along @singleandnotsettling.podcast
Connect with Vanessa Maree @vanessamaree_wingwoman
Own Your Worth: Empowered Dating for Single Woman.
Recently I was interviewed by Cehrin on her YouTube Series, Sipping on Stories. From building self confidence to embracing being single, Cehrin asked me how single woman can navigate the dating world with confidence, self worth and reclaiming your power.
Of course, there is a sprinkle of spirituality (it is me, of course).
This conversation is full of insights, laughs and inspiration for anyone currently dating or on a pause from it all.
Follow the podcast @singleandnotsettling.podcast
Follow Vanessa Maree @vanessamaree_wingwoman
Check out the interview on YouTube here:
In this episode, I sit down with Liz Ross, a relationship coach specializing in helping neurodiverse women—particularly those with autism or ADHD—navigate the world of dating and relationships.
We explore what dating looks like for someone with neurodiversity and how unique challenges can impact connections. Liz shares her insights on the importance of clear and healthy communication, inner child work, and family-of-origin healing in building strong relationships.
Whether you’re neurodiverse or not, Liz provides practical tips that anyone can implement to cultivate healthier, more fulfilling relationships.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
- How neurodiversity (autism, ADHD) shapes the dating experience.
- The role of inner child and family-of-origin healing in forming healthy connections.
- Practical tools for clear and effective communication in relationships.
- Tips that are valuable for both neurodiverse individuals and neurotypical listeners.
Tune in to learn how to approach dating with authenticity and compassion — no matter your starting point.
Ready to transform your dating life? Check out my empowering dating e-book, "The Empowered Single Woman"
Connect with Liz:
Website :https://lizross.com.au/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/lizross/
Connect and follow me on Instagram: @vanessamaree_wingwoman
🎙️ Listen to more episodes: Single and Not Settling on Spotify
In this episode of Single and Not Settling, we are diving deep into the topic of financial independence for single women and why it's essential in today’s world.
First, I’m sharing a little update on my dating life, including a memorable speed-dating experience where I ended up in a hilariously unexpected conversation about…diarrhea (yes, really!).
After a few laughs, we get serious, looking at some critical issues affecting women today. Here’s a breakdown of what we cover:
The Importance of Financial Independence
With rising divorce rates and an increase in domestic violence cases post-COVID in Australia, financial security has become more important than ever for women. I discuss why having a separate bank account—one your partner may not know about—can be a safety net if a relationship takes a negative turn.
My Journey to Financial Independence
From supporting myself as a teenager and buying my first car to making a big leap in 2017 by quitting my job without another lined up, I share how I used savings to take time off, reset, and prioritize my mental health.
Standing Strong Through Hardships
I reflect on a more recent experience in 2023 when I took stress leave after facing resistance from my workplace while caring for my Mum. This time away helped me recognize the importance of financial resilience when life throws unexpected challenges your way.
Actionable Steps for Building Financial Independence
I offer an action plan for single women ready to take control of their financial futures, covering practical steps to help you start building the foundation for financial independence.
Disclaimer: I’m not a financial advisor; I’m sharing personal experiences that have worked for me in my journey toward financial independence. Please seek professional financial advice before making any major financial decisions.
Tune in for a mix of humor, personal stories, and practical advice to help you start creating a financially independent life on your own terms.
Let’s empower ourselves to live confidently, with or without a partner!
I'd love to hear what you loved most about this episode! Connect with me at @vanessamaree_wingwoman
"...Ghosting is a reflection on them for their inability to communicate" - Andi Lew
Andi Lew is a Lifestyle and Wellness expert, TV Host and Best Selling Author and our guest on this episode of Single and Not Settling!
Vanessa Maree talks to Andi Lew about her book "Where'd They Go?", which addresses what ghosting really is and ways to find closure and deal with the disappearance of someone. Although we are associate ghosting with dating, it can also happen in business and in friendships!
Listen to this episode to hear:
To purchase one of Andi Lew's books, head to her website: https://andilew.com/shop-products/
To book in your 15 minute coaching call with Andi Lew head to her Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/andi.lew/
To connect with Vanessa Maree: https://www.instagram.com/vanessamaree_wingwoman/