Dating feels harder than ever. Dating apps, endless options, and swipe culture have left many people confused, burned out, and questioning what actually leads to real love.

In this episode, Kelly talks with April Beyer, a 25-year professional matchmaker and founder of LEVEL Connections, about why modern dating feels broken — and what truly creates lasting relationships. With an 89% matchmaking success rate and hundreds of marriages, April shares what she’s learned from decades of helping people find long-term love.

They explore why more options don’t lead to better choices, how swipe culture keeps people stuck in evaluation mode, and why chemistry and “spark” are often confused with emotional connection. April explains why relatability, emotional safety, and self-awareness matter more than shared interests or attraction, and how unresolved patterns quietly shape who we choose.

The conversation also covers why matchmaking works differently than dating apps, how third-party guidance helps interrupt self-sabotage, and where AI can support dating — without replacing human intuition.

If you’re feeling discouraged by dating or stuck in the same relationship patterns, this episode offers clarity, reassurance, and a grounded reframe on what actually lasts.

Follow April Beyer on Instagram: @April_Beyer

Follow Level Connections on Instagram: @levelconnections

Create a profile on Level Connections by clicking HERE, or visit their website: Levelconnections.com

Watch The Velvet's Edge on YouTube!

Email us: theedge@velvetsedge.com

TikTok: @velvetsedge

Follow the podcast on Instagram: @VelvetsEdgePodcast

HOST: Kelly Henderson // @velvetsedge // velvetsedge.com

Follow Velvet's Edge on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/velvetsedge/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.