Love University with Dr. Alexander Avila

Have you ever worked incredibly hard toward a dream—only to feel like you’re not making any progress? What if the key wasn’t just trying harder, but trying smarter? On this week’s Love University episode, we explore the science and psychology of effective trying—how to aim your efforts in the right way for the right goals. Whether you’re pursuing love, career success, health, or personal growth, this method can transform the way you approach your ambitions. Here are the three game-changing insights we covered: Meditate on Greatness Too often, repeated setbacks cause us to give up entirely—a psychological phenomenon known as learned helplessness. The solution is to seek out role models who’ve already succeeded in what you want to do. For example, Heather, an HR professional, was unfulfilled in her career until she met a local congresswoman she admired. Volunteering for her campaign not only reignited Heather’s passion but also gave her a new career direction. By studying and connecting with those who’ve walked the path before you, you create a roadmap that can save you years of trial and error. Reverse Your Trying Sometimes effort works against you. When you push too hard—whether in relationships, business, or personal goals—you may create pressure that drives results away. Instead, step back. If your dating life feels stalled, shift your focus inward: pick up a hobby, travel, strengthen friendships. By letting go of the chase and becoming more grounded and fulfilled on your own, you naturally draw in the right opportunities to meet the right person. Reverse trying turns forced effort into effortless attraction. Try for Your Don Your Don—taken from the Spanish word for “gift”—is your natural, God-given talent. It’s the skill or passion that energizes you, inspires you, and allows you to contribute your best to the world. If you love cooking, you might look into a culinary career. Consider if numbers are your passion, then finance could be perfect for you. Or, if you need to feed your soul, a career in psychology or spirituality can be just what you need. When you work within your natural strengths, your energy increases, motivation rises, and you’ll find that success becomes not only possible—but sustainable. The Three Tries aren’t about doing more—they’re about doing what works: learning from proven success, stepping back when over-effort is holding you back, and aiming for goals that align with your deepest talents. When you apply these steps, you start making real, lasting progress toward your biggest dreams.

Have you ever felt stuck in the same emotional pattern—no matter how much you try to change? What if that pattern was written in the stars… and could be healed through radical self-forgiveness? On this week’s enlightening episode of Love University, we welcome Lisa Tahir—licensed therapist, podcast host of All Things Therapy, and author of The Chiron Effect: Healing Our Core Wounds Through Astrology, Empathy, and Self-Forgiveness. With a blend of psychotherapy, spiritual insight, and something called psychoastrology, Lisa helps people uncover their deepest inner wound—and alchemize it into strength. Here’s what we explored in this soul-healing conversation: Your Chiron placement is your “wounded healer” key. Chiron—a celestial body named after the mythical centaur who could heal others but not himself—represents your most tender internal wound. Lisa shows how discovering its sign and house in your birth chart reveals the area of life where you’ve been hurt the most—and where you’re called to grow the most. From pain to power: the Chiron Effect. Lisa breaks down how we unconsciously repeat the same emotional themes (relationships, health, money, career) until we face the core wound underneath—and how forgiveness, responsibility, and spiritual connection are the cure. Healing starts with empathy—for yourself. Whether your wound is around perfectionism (Virgo), rejection (Aries), or trust (Scorpio), Lisa shares how writing self-affirmations, setting boundaries, and reconnecting to joy can help release toxic cycles. Psychoastrology meets purpose. Learn how each of the 12 astrological houses reflects a unique life domain—family, body, money, love, legacy, and more—so you can understand where your triggers come from and how to transform them into compassion. Bonus: We even ask if cats are more spiritual than dogs. (She has two—Jiggy and Baby—and a strong opinion.) Lisa’s message is clear and powerful: you are not broken. You are simply being invited to heal—and to remember your original wholeness. With self-compassion, spiritual awareness, and a willingness to do the inner work, your core wound can become your greatest teacher. Tune in now to Love University, and start dancing with your shadow… into the light.

Do you believe it’s possible to heal your body—and your heart—through joy, movement, and spiritual connection? On this week’s episode of Love University, we welcome the radiant Dr. Zahra Tabassian—known as “America’s Healing Dancing Doctor.” A double-board-certified internist and nephrologist, Dr. Tabassian blends cutting-edge medicine with soulful healing through her “Spiritually Sexy” method. Her story begins with heartbreak—losing her beloved father—and evolves into a revolutionary mind-body-spirit framework that’s changing lives. Here are some highlights from our inspiring conversation: Dr. Tabassian reminds us that medicine doesn’t have to be cold and clinical. With faith, rhythm, and purpose, it can be joyful, sacred—and sexy. Tune in to hear her remarkable journey from Tehran prodigy to Los Angeles healer, and learn how you can co-create your own health destiny… starting from the inside out. 💫 “With God in us, all things are possible.” — Dr. Zahra Tabassian Listen now on Love University—where the heart and the soul come to learn.

Do you crave a relationship that’s fast-paced, full of possibilities, and built on action, ambition, and mutual hustle? If so, you may be the Wheeler Dealer LoveType (ESTJ on the Myers-Briggs personality test)—the bold, pragmatic go-getter who turns dreams into deals and wants a partner who’s just as driven. On our Love University podcast, we explored the romantic firepower of the Wheeler Dealer—one of the most dynamic and forward-moving LoveTypes from my book LoveTypes (lovetype.com). Here's what we uncovered: As a Wheeler Dealer, you love to lead, organize, and execute. You thrive on results—whether it’s launching a business, planning a major trip, or crushing your goals side-by-side with a partner-in-action. You're the type who thinks love should be useful and exciting—about building something real and lasting together. You believe in fun, excitement, smart risks, and doing what works—especially if it gets you both further, faster. At the same time, your strong personality and focus on achievement can sometimes overshadow emotional nuance. You may struggle with vulnerability or grow impatient with partners who aren’t as efficient or goal-oriented as you are. You want passion—but also progress. And if you feel that your time or effort isn’t respected, you won’t stick around for very long. The good news? When you match with someone who shares your appetite for adventure and appreciates your powerhouse drive, love becomes not just satisfying—it becomes an empire. To help you find and keep your ideal co-creator in life and love, consider these power moves: Ultimately, your love story will thrive when it’s fueled by passion, purpose, and mutual respect. With the right partner by your side, you won’t just build a relationship—you’ll build a legacy—one thrilling, laughter-filled deal at a time.

Do you dream of a love that feels warm, secure, and deeply caring—one that’s rooted in loyalty, kindness, and the quiet joys of everyday life? If so, you may be the Caretaker LoveType (ISFJ on the Myers-Briggs personality test), the devoted nurturer who cherishes emotional intimacy and harmonious relationships. On our Love University podcast, we explored the distinctive romantic needs and strengths of the Caretaker—one of the most caring love personality styles from my classic book, LoveTypes (lovetype.com). Here's what we discovered: As a Caretaker, you approach life with a generous heart, exceptional empathy, and strong devotion, making you a compassionate and dependable partner. You thrive in relationships that offer emotional closeness, stability, and a shared appreciation for cozy routines. For you, love means building a sanctuary—a warm, comforting home filled with thoughtful gestures, heartfelt conversations, and small acts of kindness that deepen bonds over time. Whether preparing a favorite meal, remembering special occasions, or creating welcoming traditions, you find immense joy in giving love through steady and practical care. However, your giving nature may sometimes lead you to put your own needs last, causing you to feel emotionally drained or underappreciated. Fortunately, your innate sensitivity often help you gently communicate your needs, restoring balance and nurturing mutual respect. Your ability to tune into your partner’s emotional landscape and offer unwavering support creates lasting bonds of trust and affection. To attract and cultivate your ideal partnership, consider these helpful pointers: Ultimately, the key to finding lasting happiness as a Caretaker is recognizing your remarkable capacity for nurturing love, while ensuring that your own emotional well-being is also prioritized. When you build your cozy home with someone who honors your warmth and devotion, you'll experience the quiet joy and deep connection you've always desired. With the right partner, you'll find that love isn’t merely about caring for each other—it's about feeling equally cherished, supported, and at home together.

Have you ever heard an inner voice whispering you were a lion and meant for something greater? If you’re not where you want to be in life, then it’s time for a change; you need to tap into your hidden lion’s roar—your self-love, confidence, and talents. On our latest episode of Love University, we explored the instant of awakening—that split-second when you suddenly realize the life you’re living is too small for you—you’re not fulfilling your true potential. Our story begins with a lion cub who is raised among sheep. Just like other sheep, he grazed, was startled at shadows, and obediently followed the flock—until one day a stream mirrored back amber-gold eyes and the first hint of a mane. A roar he had never heard before burst from his throat, and in that moment he realized he wasn’t a sheep, but a powerful lion, the King of the Jungle. How about you? Perhaps, you have experienced a similar jolt of understanding: a stubborn dream that won’t stay quiet, a Sunday night restlessness, a flash of unfulfilled desire when you see someone succeed by thinking big. You hear a faint roar of power and need, and you ask yourself, “Is it coming from outside, from somewhere else, or is it inside me?” Yes, it is inside you. Following your roar, your inner authentic power, means tapping into your immortal capital—the reservoir of talent, curiosity, resilience, and intuition lying unused in your mental vault. Chances are, you have let this fortune sit idle, convinced you need outside permission, more resources or credentials. In your own life, think about the novel still unwritten, the venture unlaunched, the kindness unsaid—each one representing a stack of coins unused; greatness unfulfilled. In reality, your mental vault is unlocked. You can access your inner potential—all you have to do is step inside and gather your treasure—gifts, talents, and wisdom. Consider how Oprah Winfrey lost her first high-profile news role, and Steve Jobs, was ousted from Apple, yet both of them turned rejection into reinvention because they interpreted restlessness as a call, not a curse. If you feel a similar tension, take it as proof that you’re being summoned to evolve and accomplish something meaningful and powerful with your life. Turning that calling into momentum requires the following steps: Here’s the truth: Once a lion or lioness discovers their roar, grazing quietly like a timid sheep will never satisfy them again. Your roar is both a warning and a promise. It is a warning that you can no longer live like a sheep; you must claim your true power, and you can—that is the promise. It’s your time now, let your lion roar and you will transform yourself and the world.

Do you crave a love that fuses dazzling ideas, playful debate, and heartfelt connection? If so, you may be the Innovator LoveType (ENTP on the Myers‑Briggs personality test)—the quick‑witted explorer who thrives on possibility, originality, and meaningful partnerships. On our Love University podcast, we dove into the unique qualities and romantic requirements of the Innovator—one of the most dynamic love personality styles from my classic book, LoveTypes (lovetype.com). Here’s what we discovered: As an Innovator, you sprint through life with a curious intellect and irrepressible sense of adventure, making you a stimulating and magnetic partner. You flourish in relationships that invite spirited discussions, blue‑sky brainstorming, and the freedom to experiment together. For you, love is a grand laboratory where two imaginative minds can hatch bold schemes, celebrate every breakthrough, and deepen trust through candid communication and shared laughter. From dreaming up great business ideas to pivoting when a project fizzles, you’re always ready to dive head‑first with your partner into the next big venture as you build an empire together. Yet, in your rush to chase the next big idea, you may sometimes overlook subtle emotional signals—both yours and your partner’s. Fortunately, that same inventive energy often makes you exceptionally encouraging, resourceful, and inspiring. Your knack for spotting hidden potential and reframing obstacles as opportunities (optimism) can be priceless in any partnership. If you’re searching for true connection, consider these helpful pointers: Let your partner glimpse the softer layers beneath your confident banter. Although it’s easy for Innovators to stay in the realm of theory, sharing your vulnerable emotions can transform bright sparks into lasting warmth. By pairing your inventive spirit with genuine sensitivity, you’ll cultivate a love that’s both electrifying and nurturing. Ultimately, your ideal relationship marries creativity with authentic closeness. When you share your visionary spark with someone who appreciates your individuality, you can build a life of exhilarating experiments, heartfelt camaraderie, and world‑rocking impact. With the right person by your side, you’ll discover that true love is the ultimate innovation—culminating in a boundless source of mutual growth and joy.

Do you desire a love that blends strategic drive, bold vision, and heartfelt connection? If so, you may be the General LoveType (ENTJ on the Myers-Briggs personality test)—the decisive leader who thrives on challenges, big goals, and purposeful relationships. On our Love University podcast, we explored the unique qualities and romantic requirements of the General—one of the most powerful love personality styles from my classic LoveTypes (lovetype.com). Here’s what we learned: As a General, you approach life with a confident intellect and proactive mindset, making you a strong and compelling partner. You excel in relationships that allow you to brainstorm creative solutions, set audacious objectives, and champion each other’s dreams. For you, love is about forging a dynamic alliance, celebrating every success along the way, and cultivating mutual respect through honest communication and shared ambition. In relationships, you may sometimes get caught up in your drive to achieve, which can lead you to miss important emotional subtleties—both yours and your partner’s. Yet, this same determination often makes you exceptionally supportive, visionary, and inspiring. Your capacity to see potential in both yourself and your loved one can be a priceless asset in any partnership. If you’re looking for true connection, consider these helpful pointers: Remember to let your partner see your vulnerable side and share the feelings that often lie beneath your confident exterior. Although it’s easy for Generals to stay focused on action and progress, opening your heart to emotional truths can lead to a deeper and more rewarding connection. By pairing your passion for achievement with authentic emotional presence, you’ll create a love that’s as powerful as it is nurturing. Ultimately, your ideal relationship is one that harmonizes ambition with genuine closeness. When you extend your leadership and vision to someone who appreciates your individuality, you can build a life of impactful collaborations, heartfelt companionship, and ongoing success. With the right person by your side, you’ll discover that true love can be an extraordinary partnership—and a lasting source of mutual growth and happiness.

Daniel Gutierrez was once at the top of his game in the business world—an advisor to the Obama Administration, a big-time speaker, and a highly paid consultant to major organizations. But then he left it all behind to embark on a spiritual journey toward self-love. Now a mindfulness master (danielgutierrez.com) and bestselling author (Radical Mindfulness), he leads life-changing retreats to Peru, teaching Radical Mindfulness and the power of living and loving fully in the present. A Life-Changing Encounter with Wachuma In his search for enlightenment, Daniel took San Pedro (Wachuma), a plant medicine known for opening the heart and deepening wisdom. Unlike the intense night visions of Ayahuasca, Wachuma is taken during the day, bringing clarity and connection to nature. During the experience, he saw a powerful condor (a large bird of prey)—a sign to trust his inner wisdom and embrace his path as a teacher and healer. A Mother’s Final Words of Freedom During his mother’s dying moments, Daniel experienced the sacred energy of Palo Santo wood. He saw two lights and felt her presence. Her last words to him: “You were here when I needed you. I release you to the world.” With that blessing, he stepped fully into his mission of love and mindfulness. Radical Mindfulness: The Art of Being Fully Present Mindfulness rewires the brain—lowering fear, increasing memory and planning, and boosting compassion by 23%, while reducing aggression by 57%. Daniel’s Six-Step Radical Mindfulness Framework helps people stay present: Plant Medicine: Nature’s Teachers and Healers Daniel learned that Indigenous wisdom sees plants as living beings (Anima). If a plant loves you, it heals you. This is a sacred exchange—plants willingly offer their spirit when treated with gratitude and respect. Spiritual Wisdom From the Jungle Here are some of Daniel’s Nuggets of Natural Higher Knowledge: Finding Peace in Sacred Lands Daniel now runs the Catalina Retreat Center (catalinaretreatcenterperu.com), named after his beloved departed mother. He leads earnest seekers on transformational journeys to Peru, including spiritually evolved places such as Cusco and Machu Picchu in the Andes. A New Definition of Success Once a "big baller" in the business world, Daniel discovered that true success isn’t about money or power. It’s about stillness, presence, and love. On Love University, we invite you to embrace the powerful lesson inspired by Daniel’s journey to peace and self-acceptance: Live more. Love more. Be more. When you do this, the world opens its arms to you, and your joy will be unending. Listen to the full episode with Daniel Gutierrez on Love University Podcast. Take the first step toward a life of peace and purpose—because true success begins within.

Do you believe that love should be a gentle dance of understanding, emotional connection, and shared appreciation for life’s beauty? If so, you may be the Gentle Artist LoveType (ISFP on the Myers-Briggs personality test)—a compassionate and introspective soul who values nature, animals, art, and the simple yet profound joys of life. On our latest Love University podcast, we delved into the unique qualities of the Gentle Artist and how you can find a love that complements your tender, creative spirit. As a Gentle Artist, your love for the world around you is reflected in everything you do. Whether it’s through creating art, cherishing the beauty of nature, or forming meaningful connections with children and animals, your heart is deeply attuned to the world’s softer, quieter side. You are flexible and willing to adapt for love, even to the point of moving cross-country if it means being with your soulmate. This openness and gentleness make you an incredible long-term partner, but they also mean you must guard your heart against being taken advantage of by those who might mistake your trust for naivety. In relationships, you express your love in subtle yet profound ways—through a handmade gift, a quiet moment shared under the stars, or the warmth of your presence when words aren’t needed. You value harmony and emotional connection above all, making you a nurturing and empathetic partner. Yet, your natural reserve can sometimes make it hard for others to fully understand the depth of your feelings, leading to occasional misunderstandings. To find your perfect love, seek someone who appreciates your creativity and gentle spirit—someone who values authenticity, loves nature as much as you do, and treasures life’s simple yet meaningful moments. A partner who supports your artistic passions and honors your need for introspection will help you flourish. This person will not only cherish your sensitivity but will also inspire you to grow in ways you never imagined. At the same time, it’s important for you to express your needs openly in a relationship. While you often prefer to let your actions speak for you, sharing your feelings and vulnerabilities will deepen your connection with your partner. Vulnerability, far from being a weakness, is your pathway to true intimacy. Your ideal relationship as a Gentle Artist is one filled with shared experiences that celebrate life’s beauty—strolling through a quiet forest, creating something meaningful together, or simply enjoying a peaceful evening side by side. With the right partner, you’ll find a love that feels as natural and enduring as the art and beauty you so deeply value. The key to finding your perfect love as an ISFP lies in embracing your gentle, creative nature while learning to set boundaries and communicate openly. Trust in your ability to connect on a deep emotional level, and seek someone who resonates with your values of authenticity and emotional depth. With the right person, your love will not only be tender but also transformative—a testament to the beauty of two sensitive souls coming together in harmony.

Do you ever feel like you’re stuck in life, settling for an “okay” relationship, a decent job, or a predictable routine? On this week’s Love University Podcast, we uncovered the secret to breaking free from mediocrity and stepping into a life of boldness and achievement. As we learned in The Man with No Shirt story, the path to greatness starts with aiming for what seems impossible—and discovering that it’s not only within reach, but essential for your ultimate happiness. The antidote to feeling stuck is to extend your psychological reach farther than you think possible. Ask yourself, “What would it look like if I became the greatest version of myself—the best partner, parent, creator, or businessperson?” It’s about daring to aim for “insane” goals that others might dismiss as unrealistic. Why? Because even if you fall short, you’ll surpass limits you never thought you could. As we explored on the show, striving for greatness sets a powerful chain reaction in motion: small wins lead to bigger wins, confidence builds, and barriers you once saw as immovable start to dissolve. In The Man with No Shirt, a desperate young man searches for the happiest person in the world, believing he can gain happiness by wearing that person’s shirt. But the story takes a surprising turn when he learns that the happiest man has no shirt—because happiness isn’t external; it’s already within you. As we discussed on the podcast, this tale reminds us that the key to reaching extraordinary heights is not just about external goals, but about recognizing your own inner potential. To take charge of your destiny, you must aim for goals that stretch you to the limit. Think about what you really want in life: an incredible career, a love-filled relationship, or an extraordinary lifestyle. Start small—send that email to a mentor, enroll in a course to boost your confidence, or try something new that aligns with your dreams. As we emphasized on the show, focusing on one significant action each day helps eliminate distractions, silence self-doubt, and build unstoppable momentum. Of course, the journey won’t always be easy. You’ll face obstacles, procrastination, and fear. But as we learned, pushing beyond mental limitations—just like the young man searching for happiness—reveals an unexpected truth: You’re capable of far more than you realize. The moment you stop settling for “okay” and start reaching for the stars is the moment your life begins to transform. On Love University, we’re here to inspire you to think big, dream bold, and take that first daring step toward the life you deserve. Remember, it’s not about finding someone else’s “shirt” of happiness—it’s about stepping into your own greatness. The impossible isn’t as far away as it seems. When you extend your reach, you’ll realize you were made for much more. So, what’s your impossible goal? Take a step today, and watch the extraordinary unfold.