As we approach the end of the year, many people naturally begin reflecting on their relationships — what’s working, what isn’t, and what they want to do differently moving forward. In a recent Spectrum News feature, How to Use Communication to Strengthen Your Relationships, Amanda Hood, founder of The Crush Confidential, shared expert insight on why communication is the foundation of meaningful connection — and where so many people go wrong.
After eight years of working closely with singles and couples, Amanda has seen firsthand how communication can either build intimacy or quietly dismantle it.
Why So Many People Feel Disconnected
One of the most powerful takeaways from the Spectrum News segment is a simple truth: people are craving real connection.
As relationship expert and author Ravi Rajani explained in the feature, many individuals today are starved of human connection. Despite constant access to technology, genuine communication has become harder — not easier.
Amanda sees this daily in her matchmaking work.
“Relationships are like a dance,” she shared. “And especially in a duet, it takes a lot of nonverbal communication to stay coordinated.”
The challenge? Many singles are trying to dance without ever learning their partner’s rhythm.
The Hidden Communication Breakdown Behind Ghosting
One of the biggest issues Amanda highlighted in the interview is ghosting — when someone you’ve been dating suddenly disappears without explanation.
In her experience, ghosting isn’t always intentional or malicious. More often, it’s the result of severe miscommunication.
Amanda explained that it’s not uncommon for both people in a new connection to believe they’ve been ghosted.
“They’ve gone out, they’ve had a date or two and things seem great,” she said. “Then when I follow up, both parties say they were ghosted.”
Why does this happen?
Because early on, people don’t yet understand each other’s:
Without clarity and guidance, assumptions take over — and connection breaks down.
Why The Crush Confidential Uses a Three-Date Model
Amanda’s approach to matchmaking is intentionally different. At The Crush Confidential, she uses a three-date model designed to help new matches communicate more effectively before making snap judgments.
The goal isn’t pressure — it’s perspective.
Three dates allow people to:
Move past first-date nerves
Observe communication patterns
Understand emotional cues
Clarify interest instead of assuming disinterest
This structure alone prevents countless misunderstandings and helps singles make decisions rooted in clarity, not fear.
The Communication Habit to Leave Behind in 2025
One of the strongest messages from the Spectrum News feature was the importance of how we communicate — not just how often.
According to Rajani, one habit to leave behind is dominating the conversation.
Talking at someone, over-explaining, or offering unsolicited advice shuts down connection. True communication requires curiosity.
Amanda agrees.
Strong relationships are built when both people feel seen, heard, and understood — not talked over.
Listening Beyond Words
Effective communication isn’t just verbal. Amanda emphasizes the importance of paying attention to what isn’t being said.
Tone, body language, energy, and emotional responses all tell a story.
When people slow down and truly listen — instead of preparing their next response — connection deepens naturally.
This skill is especially critical in early dating, when misunderstandings are most likely to occur.
Why Texting Can Hurt Relationships
One of Amanda’s most quoted lines from the feature was simple — and bold:
“Texting is where relationships go to die.”
While texting is convenient, it often lacks context, tone, and emotional nuance. Misinterpretation is easy, especially when people don’t yet know each other well.
Whenever possible, Amanda encourages voice or face-to-face communication — especially for meaningful conversations.
Back to the Basics: Strengthening Existing Relationships
For couples already in relationships, Amanda believes the solution isn’t complicated — it’s foundational.
Taking time each day to reconnect matters.
Even asking something as simple as:
“Tell me about your day.”
creates space for emotional intimacy and reassurance.
The Takeaway: Better Communication Creates Better Relationships
Whether single or coupled, Amanda’s message is clear: communication is the currency of connection.
When people invest time in understanding each other’s communication styles, emotional needs, and boundaries, relationships thrive.
As we head into 2026, Amanda hopes more people choose intentional communication — especially singles searching for a partner to build a life with.
“The resolve is better communication,” she shared. “Being able to build that relationship and learn their communication style — that’s what truly matters.”
At The Crush Confidential, communication isn’t just encouraged — it’s coached, guided, and supported every step of the way.
