| Category | Best Pick | Justification | |----------|-----------|----------------| | Academic Work | PhD Thesis (concept of algorithmic intimacy) | Most original contribution to digital sociology | | Podcast | This Connected Life (hosted) | Best synthesis of research + accessible storytelling | | Film Event | Swipe Right for Love? panel | Highest production value and public engagement | | Beginner’s Entry | The Hook Up guest episodes | Short, entertaining, and widely available |
Dr. Lisa Portolan is not a "podcaster who used to be an academic" or a "film critic with a degree." She is a synthesis. Her PhD thesis provides the language to describe how we feel when we listen to a podcast in the dark. Her podcast provides the emotional proof of her theories. And her analysis of the film event reminds us that the best digital theories must always point back to the human, analog heart.
For media students seeking the best contemporary framework to understand 2020s culture, the keyword is simple: follow Lisa Portolan. In her work, the screen, the microphone, and the cinema seat finally speak to one another.
Are you interested in digital intimacy, film criticism, or academic podcasting? Dr. Portolan is currently a lecturer at the University of Notre Dame, Australia, and continues to release new episodes weekly. Search for her podcast wherever you get your audio, or look for her upcoming speaking engagements at your next local film event.
Dr. Lisa Portolan is a Sydney-based academic and author whose PhD research at Western Sydney University explores how dating apps and digital technologies have redefined intimacy and romantic relationships. PhD Thesis & Research
Her doctoral work focuses on "Jagged Love"—the concept that dating app interactions are often fragmented and dissatisfying rather than fluid.
Core Findings: She examines how digital platforms have shifted dominant romantic paradigms and how users negotiate intimacy during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Publications: Her research is compiled in her book, Love, Intimacy and Online Dating: How a Global Pandemic Redefined Intimacy (Routledge, 2023). Podcasts
Portolan frequently shares her insights on digital dating culture through various audio platforms:
The Slow Love Podcast: She hosts this series, which discusses moving away from "fast" dating app culture toward more meaningful connections.
Guest Appearances: She has appeared on Spotify and Apple Podcasts to discuss the "shocking truth" about dating apps and their psychological impact. Film & Media Events
As a screenwriter and regular media commentator, Portolan bridges the gap between academic research and popular culture:
Raising the Bar: She has been a featured speaker at the Raising the Bar event, where she translated her PhD findings into public talks about the future of love.
Film Projects: Her work often touches on screenwriting and the intersection of visual narratives with her research on romance scripts. Notable Books High Maintenance Women - dokumen.pub
Lisa Portolan is a prominent Australian researcher and author whose work focuses on the intersection of digital intimacy dating apps , and modern romantic narratives . Her PhD thesis from Western Sydney University
examines how dating apps have fundamentally reshaped the way relationships are negotiated, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. PhD Thesis and Research Focus Her doctoral research investigates digital intimacies
, exploring the "computer contract" and how algorithms influence romantic behavior. Key themes include: Simon & Schuster High-Maintenance Narratives
: Analyzing the "high-maintenance" label as a red flag on dating apps and its impact on how women present themselves. The Aussie Bloke
: Researching cultural idioms like the "Aussie Bloke" and hegemonic masculinity in reality TV and social media. Pandemic Dating
: How lockdowns accelerated reliance on apps, creating unique emotional challenges and shifting dating norms. www.taylorfrancis.com Podcasts and Media
Portolan is a frequent commentator on the psychological and social impacts of swiping culture. The Shocking Truth About Dating Apps (with Lisa Portolan)
Episode Title: "Unraveling Identity: A Conversation with Lisa Portolan on her PhD Thesis and Film"
Intro Music and Host Introduction
Host: Welcome to "Research in Focus", a podcast where we dive into the latest research and creative projects making waves in various fields. I'm your host, [Name], and today we're joined by Lisa Portolan, a PhD researcher who has just completed her thesis on identity and representation. Lisa, welcome to the show!
Segment 1: Introduction to Lisa Portolan's PhD Thesis
Lisa Portolan: Thank you for having me! My PhD thesis, titled "Fractured Identities: Exploring the Intersection of Culture, Media, and Self", examines how identity is constructed and represented in media, particularly in film and television. I was interested in understanding how different cultural and social factors influence the way we perceive ourselves and others.
Host: That's fascinating. Can you tell us more about what sparked your interest in this topic?
Lisa Portolan: Growing up, I was always aware of the complexities of identity, particularly as a member of a multicultural community. I saw how people from different backgrounds would navigate their identities in various ways, and I became intrigued by the ways in which media representation could both reflect and shape these experiences.
Segment 2: The Film Project
Host: As part of your PhD research, you also created a film project that explores these themes. Can you tell us more about that?
Lisa Portolan: Yes! The film, titled "In/Between", is a short narrative piece that follows a young protagonist as she navigates her mixed cultural heritage. Through her story, I aimed to illustrate the tensions and contradictions that can arise when negotiating multiple identities.
Host: That sounds really compelling. What was the process like, creating a film that was both a creative project and a research output?
Lisa Portolan: It was a challenging but rewarding experience. I had to balance my creative vision with the need to ensure that the film was also a rigorous representation of my research findings. I worked closely with a team of collaborators, including actors, cinematographers, and editors, to bring the story to life.
Segment 3: The Event
Host: You're also organizing an event to showcase your research and film. Can you tell us more about that?
Lisa Portolan: Yes! The event, titled "Screening Identity", will feature a screening of "In/Between" followed by a panel discussion with experts from the fields of media studies, sociology, and cultural studies. We hope to create a space for conversation and debate about the ways in which media representation shapes our understanding of identity. lisa portolan phd thesis podcast film event best
Host: That sounds like a fantastic opportunity for discussion and engagement. What do you hope audiences will take away from the event?
Lisa Portolan: I hope that audiences will leave with a deeper understanding of the complexities of identity and the importance of representation in media. I also hope that the event will spark new conversations and collaborations between researchers, artists, and community members.
Conclusion and Outro
Host: Lisa Portolan, thank you so much for joining us today to discuss your PhD thesis, film, and event. It's been enlightening to hear about your research and creative projects.
Lisa Portolan: Thank you for having me!
Host: If you're interested in learning more about Lisa's research and film, be sure to check out the event details on our website. And don't forget to subscribe to our podcast for more conversations with researchers and creatives making a difference in their fields.
Outro Music
This event is designed as a multimedia salon that bridges the gap between academic findings and human experience, centering on the themes of her PhD thesis regarding dating apps and digital intimacy. The PhD Core: "Jagged Love" Keynote
Concept: A live presentation of Portolan's research from the University of Western Sydney.
Focus: How dating apps have shifted from tools for connection to performance-based platforms, exploring the "psychology behind the swipe".
Highlight: Revealing how global crises (like the pandemic) redefined our need for "Slow Love" versus "Jagged Love". The Podcast Stage: "Slow Love" Live
Concept: A live recording session of the Slow Love podcast, co-created with filmmaker Ruth Borgobello.
Best Feature: An "Open Mic" segment where attendees can share short, raw stories of intimacy, echoing the vulnerability found in Portolan's original PhD field interviews. The Film Integration: Cinematic Intimacy
Concept: A screening of films that capture the essence of modern connection, such as "The Space Between," which inspired the podcast's creative partnership.
Panel Discussion: A post-screening talk with Lisa Portolan and local filmmakers on how digital dating translates to the "big screen" versus reality. "The Best" Interactive Workshop: Reclaiming Connection
Goal: Moving beyond the "sensational gloss" of media portrayals of dating.
Action: A guided workshop on "Slow Love" practices—techniques for intentional dating that counteract the burnout of infinite scrolling. Event Summary Description Theme Redefining Intimacy in the Digital Age Research Anchor "Jagged Love" narratives on dating apps Media Format Podcast interviews + cinematic screenings Key Takeaway Reclaiming power and authenticity in digital relationships The Shocking Truth About Dating Apps (with Lisa Portolan)
Lisa Portolan is an author, researcher, and PhD candidate at Western Sydney University
whose work explores the intersection of dating apps, gender, and intimacy. Her research gained significant attention for its focus on how the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped romantic narratives, leading to the publication of her book and associated media projects. PhD Thesis & Research Focus Her doctoral research examines
how dating apps have changed the ways we find love and intimacy . Key concepts from her work include: "Jagged Love":
A term she coined to describe the cyclical, often frustrating relationship users have with dating apps, characterized by a gap between the desire for traditional romantic "master plots" and the app's inability to deliver them. Digital Intimacy:
She investigates how technology mediates autonomy and agency, particularly for women, and how digital interactions shape perceptions of consent. Podcast & Media Portolan hosted a top-ten podcast titled "Slow Love"
, which documented the realities of dating and love during the pandemic. The podcast served as a narrative companion to her research, exploring themes of loneliness and the "liquification" of modern love. Related Works & Events She authored
Love, Intimacy and Online Dating: How a Global Pandemic Redefined Romantic Relationships
(2022), which synthesises her research into a scholarly yet accessible format. Screenwriting:
Beyond academia, she is a screenwriter and has written for various Australian media outlets like The Conversation
Portolan frequently presents her findings at academic and public events, including appearances on Australian programmes like The Today Show to discuss the evolution of modern romance. theory or a list of her specific podcast episodes High Maintenance Women - dokumen.pub
Beyond the Swipe: Navigating Modern Love with Dr. Lisa Portolan
In a world where intimacy is often mediated by a five-inch screen, how do we find—and more importantly, keep—real connection? Dr. Lisa Portolan, a leading researcher at the University of Technology Sydney, has spent years uncovering the truth about our digital romantic lives.
From her groundbreaking PhD thesis to her top-charting podcasts, Dr. Portolan’s work is a must-read (and must-listen) for anyone who has ever felt "jagged" by the modern dating cycle. 🎓 The Research: From PhD to "Jagged Love"
Dr. Portolan’s academic journey began with a deep dive into the politics of intimacy
. Her research, particularly during the global pandemic, identified a phenomenon she calls "Jagged Love." The Cycle:
Users desperately seek the "romantic masterplot" (the storybook ending) but are met with the clinical architecture of apps. The Result:
A frenetic cycle of swiping, matching, deleting in frustration, and eventually returning out of loneliness. The Insight:
We treat dating like "UberEats for relationships," prioritizing novelty over the messy, slow work of building a genuine bond. 🎙️ The Podcast Experience: "Slow Love" and Beyond | Category | Best Pick | Justification |
If you want to hear these theories in action, Dr. Portolan’s media presence is the perfect entry point. She doesn't just look at data; she listens to stories. Slow Love Podcast:
This top-ten series documented dating during the pandemic, exploring how we pivoted when face-to-face contact was off the table. Guest Appearances:
You can find her sharing "the shocking truth about dating apps" on programs like The Heart of It with Cam & Ali Daddo Better Than Yesterday with Osher Günsberg 🎬 Events & Films: Seeing Love Differently
Dr. Portolan’s work often crosses over into the arts, where she uses film and live lectures to deconstruct the "meet-cute" and other cinematic tropes that skew our expectations. The "Meet-Cute" Myth: In her lectures, she often references films like Before Sunrise
to explain why we feel like failures if our own meeting isn't "fate-driven." Live Events: Keep an eye on local Sydney listings for her interactive lectures
, where she balances hard sociology with humorous, relatable case studies. 📖 Essential Reading
If you’re ready to take love back from the algorithms, her books are your roadmap: Love, Intimacy and Online Dating
: A deep dive into how the pandemic redefined our connections. Ten Ways to Find Love... and How to Keep It
: A compassionate handbook that blends sociology with practical strategies for long-term partnership.
Are you interested in a specific part of her work for this post? social media caption to promote this blog. Q&A style interview based on her findings. of her latest book, Ten Ways to Find Love
In an era where academic research often stays locked behind paywalls and cultural criticism feels detached from everyday life, Dr. Lisa Portolan stands out as a rare polymath. She is a researcher, author, podcaster, and media commentator who has successfully bridged the gap between rigorous sociological theory and mainstream cultural conversation.
For those searching for the nexus of her work—spanning her PhD thesis, her influential podcast, her impact on film events, and an exploration of the best practices in digital storytelling—this article is your definitive guide. We will unpack how Portolan’s academic foundations fuel her public-facing projects, making her one of Australia’s most compelling voices on intimacy, identity, and technology.
Dr. Lisa Portolan is a leading academic, author, and researcher whose work navigates the complex intersection of digital intimacy, romance, and modern technology. Her contributions have bridged the gap between rigorous scholarly research and popular culture, making her a prominent voice in discussions about how dating apps have fundamentally reshaped human connection. Academic Foundations: The PhD Thesis
Dr. Portolan’s academic research at Western Sydney University and the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) focuses on the impact of dating apps on intimacy and romance. Her PhD thesis explores how these platforms reproduce or subvert traditional heteronormative dating paradigms.
A central concept in her research is "Jagged Love," a term she coined to describe the cyclical and often frustrating relationship users have with dating apps. Her work suggests that while users seek the security of a "romance masterplot," the infrastructure of these apps often fails to deliver, leading to a state of "romantic dread" where dating feels more like a task to manage than a story unfolding. The "Slow Love" Podcast
Translating her academic findings into a narrative format, Dr. Portolan co-created the Slow Love podcast alongside filmmaker Ruth Borgobello.
Concept: Born out of her PhD fieldwork during the COVID-19 lockdowns, the podcast captures raw and authentic stories of intimacy during a global crisis.
Impact: It documents the shift from physical dating to virtual connections, highlighting the vulnerability people showed when traditional dating avenues were closed. Film and Pop Culture Events
Dr. Portolan is frequently featured at major cultural and industry events where she discusses the evolution of modern romance.
The "Meet-Cute" and Cinema: She has argued in The Guardian that modern cinema—such as Marriage Story and The Worst Person in the World—has moved away from saccharine "happily-ever-after" tropes toward themes of relationship anxiety and psychological satire.
Italian Film Festival: Her collaboration with Ruth Borgobello originally sparked at the Italian Film Festival in Canberra, where Borgobello’s film The Space Between was being showcased.
Public Speaking: She is a regular guest on programs like The Drum and Studio 10, and has presented at events like Raising the Bar. Best-Selling Books and Publications
Beyond her research, Dr. Portolan is a prolific author of both fiction and non-fiction. Dr Portolan (@lisaportolan) • Instagram photos and videos
Dr. Lisa Portolan is a prominent researcher and author whose work focuses on the intersection of dating apps, intimacy, and gender. Her PhD research at the University of Western Sydney directly informed her widely recognized podcast and literary projects. PhD Thesis and Core Research
Dr. Portolan’s PhD research examined how global events, particularly the COVID-19 pandemic, redefined romantic relationships and intimacy.
Key Concept: "Jagged Love": Her research introduced the theory of Jagged Love, which describes the cyclical and often disenchanting relationship users have with dating apps—repeatedly seeking security in romantic "masterplots" only to lose faith and return to the apps out of loneliness.
Impact of Digital Spaces: She explores how dating apps act as the "Uber Eats of relationships," fostering a sense of disposability and judgment due to their heavy visual focus. "Slow Love" Podcast
The Slow Love Podcast is a top-ten podcast documenting raw, authentic experiences of love and hook-ups during the pandemic.
Collaboration: It was co-created with filmmaker Ruth Borgobello after the two met at the Italian Film Festival.
Content: The series serves as a storytelling extension of Portolan's PhD field research, capturing the vulnerability of interviewees during lockdowns. Books and Media
Dr. Portolan has authored several books that translate her academic findings for a broader audience: " Love, Intimacy and Online Dating
": Published by Routledge, this book highlights the pandemic's role in modifying definitions of romance " 10 Ways to Find Love
": A practical guide reflecting her expertise as a dating app researcher.
Recent Appearances: She was featured on the Better Than Yesterday podcast with Osher Günsberg in March 2025 to discuss the cultural shifts caused by dating technology. The Shocking Truth About Dating Apps (with Lisa Portolan)
Dr. Lisa Portolan is a prominent Sydney-based academic and researcher whose PhD work at Western Sydney University focuses on dating apps, digital intimacy, and the intersection of technology and romance. Her research is widely shared through various media, including podcasts, best-selling books, and public events. PhD Thesis and Key Research Concepts Are you interested in digital intimacy, film criticism,
Portolan’s doctoral research explores how dating apps have reshaped modern intimacy, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Jagged Love: A key term coined by Portolan and Dr. Jodi McAlister to describe the jaded and anxious state of dating app users. It highlights the conflict between the "organic" romantic ideals people seek and the strategic, often disappointing reality of app-mediated interactions.
Thesis to Book: Her research has been adapted into several books, including Love, Intimacy and Online Dating (Routledge, 2023) and her recent best-seller, Ten Ways to Find Love... and How to Keep It (2025). Podcast Projects
Portolan uses podcasts to bring her academic findings to a broader audience:
Slow Love: This series was a direct "brainchild" of her PhD research, created in collaboration with filmmaker Ruth Borgobello. It documents raw, authentic stories of dating and intimacy during lockdown.
Guest Appearances: She frequently discusses "The Shocking Truth About Dating Apps" on popular shows like Better Than Yesterday with Osher Günsberg. Film and Public Events
Her work often intersects with the film and public speaking sectors:
Italian Film Festival: Portolan met her Slow Love collaborator, Ruth Borgobello, at this festival in Canberra.
Raising the Bar: She has headlined high-profile public lecture events like Raising the Bar, where she presents her findings on "Jagged Love" to live audiences. Ten Ways to Find Love by Dr Lisa Portolan
Redefining Romance: Dr. Lisa Portolan on Love in the Digital Age
Dr. Lisa Portolan is a prominent Sydney-based academic, author, and researcher whose work navigates the complex intersection of digital intimacy, dating apps, and modern romance. With a PhD from Western Sydney University, Portolan has dedicated years to examining how technological affordances and cultural shifts have fundamentally changed how we negotiate relationships. Academic Foundations: The PhD Thesis
Portolan's doctoral research at Western Sydney University’s Institute for Culture and Society investigates the impact of dating apps on digital intimacy. Her work highlights:
The "Circular Experience": Her research found that many users feel trapped in a repetitive cycle; men often treat apps as a "numbers game" by swiping frequently, while women tend to be more selective yet feel pressured to present themselves as "easy-going" to avoid being labeled "high-maintenance".
The Phantom of Intimacy: Portolan argues that much of the "falling in love" process on apps occurs in the mind, where users construct an imagined persona around digital fragments. Podcasts and Media Engagement
Portolan is a frequent voice in the "slow love" movement and a regular commentator on Australian programs like The Today Show and The Drum.
Slow Love Podcast: She hosted this top-ten series, which documented the unique challenges of dating and maintaining intimacy during the global pandemic.
Expert Guest Appearances: She recently appeared on Better Than Yesterday with Osher Günsberg, discussing whether there is any escape from the paradigms created by dating apps. Literary Contributions and Events
Beyond academia, Portolan translates her research into actionable guides for the public. Her work is often featured at thought-leadership events like Raising the Bar.
Ten Ways to Find Love … and How to Keep It - Dr Lisa Portolan
Dr Lisa Portolan is a researcher and author whose work focuses on digital intimacy
, love, and popular culture. While she has written extensively on these topics, her academic and public-facing work often intersects with media like podcasts and films to explore modern romance. Academic Background and Research Dr Portolan earned her PhD in Digital Intimacy Western Sydney University
. Her research often examines how technology, such as dating apps, reshapes human connection. Allen & Unwin - Australia Thesis Focus:
Her work investigates the intersection of narrative theory and digital humanities, particularly how digital platforms redefine social contexts and archetypes. Key Concepts:
She has explored tropes like the "Aussie bloke" and the "high maintenance woman" within the context of dating apps and COVID-19. ResearchGate Podcasts and Media Appearances
As a frequent commentator on love and sex, Portolan utilizes various media formats to disseminate her findings: Podcasting:
She frequently engages with digital media to discuss intimacy. Her books, such as Love, Intimacy and Online Dating
, often serve as the basis for discussions on podcasts and talk shows. TV & Commentary: She has appeared on major Australian programs like The Project show to share insights on digital-age romance. Allen & Unwin - Australia Film and Pop Culture Analysis
Portolan’s research extends into the analysis of reality television and film as modern "myths" of romance: Reality TV Research:
She has published academic work on the "heroine" archetype in shows like The Bachelor/ette Australia The Bachelorette New Zealand
, treating these televised events as significant cultural texts for studying modern intimacy. Literary Work: Her recent 2025 book,
(co-authored with Amanda Goff), continues this trend by exploring cultural perceptions and popular culture. Allen & Unwin - Australia How to Approach an Essay on Her Work
If you are writing an essay regarding her research or a related event, consider these pillars: The Shift in Intimacy:
How digital platforms act as the new "narrative" for finding love. Gender Archetypes:
Analyzing the evolution of tropes like the "cool girl" or "high maintenance" woman in modern media. Media as Research: How podcasts and reality TV (like The Bachelor ) provide real-world data for academic study. Allen & Unwin - Australia specific summary of one of her recent publications for your essay? Boobs - Lisa Portolan, Amanda Goff -- Bonnier Echo
What separates Portolan from other academics is her refusal to let her research collect dust on a library shelf. This brings us to the Lisa Portolan PhD thesis podcast—a logical and brilliant extension of her work.
While she has appeared on numerous shows (including ABC’s Big Ideas and The Hook Up), her own forays into podcasting have been where her thesis comes alive. The podcast, often titled in reference to her research areas (such as her work on the Intimacy Futures series), translates dense academic concepts into digestible, engaging audio.
To understand the full scope of Portolan’s career, you must start with her doctoral research. The Lisa Portolan PhD thesis is not merely an academic requirement; it is the intellectual bedrock upon which everything else is built.