When relationship patterns repeat, is it just bad luck? Clinical psychologist Dr. Laurie Betito hears that question in her office and offers another place to look: what makes a new partner seem familiar in the first place?

After his divorce, Shane was told that if dating felt easy, he might be repeating an old pattern. Laurie adds a question to the advice: what kind of easy? That distinction is worth hearing before taking ease or discomfort as a sign of anything.

In one of Laurie’s examples, a woman grows up trying to get her father’s attention. Years later, she’s drawn to partners who are emotionally unavailable, and there’s one thought that keeps the story going: maybe this time it’ll work. What makes another try seem like a chance at a different ending?

Topics: Relationship patterns, dating after divorce, emotional familiarity, emotional availability, repetition compulsion

GUEST: Dr. Laurie Betito | drlaurie.com

Originally aired on 2026-11-06

When relationship patterns repeat, is it just bad luck? Clinical psychologist Dr. Laurie Betito hears that question in her office and offers another place to look: what makes a new partner seem familiar in the first place?
After his divorce, Shane was told that if dating felt easy, he might be repeating an old pattern. Laurie adds a question to the advice: what kind of easy? That distinction is worth hearing before taking ease or discomfort as a sign of anything.
In one of Laurie&rsquo;s examples, a woman grows up trying to get her father&rsquo;s attention. Years later, she&rsquo;s drawn to partners who are emotionally unavailable, and there&rsquo;s one thought that keeps the story going: maybe this time it&rsquo;ll work. What makes another try seem like a chance at a different ending?
Topics: Relationship patterns, dating after divorce, emotional familiarity, emotional availability, repetition compulsion
GUEST: Dr. Laurie Betito | drlaurie.com
Originally aired on&nbsp;2026-11-06

Shane Hewitt & The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world—always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.

From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane’s signature style—thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.

If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt &amp; The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world&mdash;always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.
From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane&rsquo;s signature style&mdash;thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.
If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt and The Nightshift

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.