The Human Petri Dish | Understanding Each Other | Dating & Relating

The Human Petri Dish

Where human behaviour gets delightfully messy

Welcome to the Lab… and Today!

Hosted by Andrew Boyton, The Human Petri Dish is where we place the wild, messy, and fascinating experiment of being human under the microscope.

This curious and slightly mischievous podcast explores the raw realities of life, relationships, leadership, culture, and technology and how they collide in the modern world. Andrew blends his expertise in leadership, psychotherapy, research, and relational theory with guests who challenge assumptions, puncture myths, and offer sharp insights with unflinching curiosity.

What You’ll Get

  • Thought-provoking, sometimes uncomfortable conversations that make you reflect on trust, power, silence, and reciprocity.
  • Unexpected perspectives on personal and professional life, inviting deeper understanding of human behaviour.
  • A mix of serious insight and playful exploration, from dating and family life to teams, leadership, and culture.

For You If…

You're curious about people, fascinated by relationships, and want to explore the hidden forces shaping your personal and professional world. Whether you're a leader, a parent, a partner, or simply a human, this podcast is for you.

Why Listen Now

Because understanding ourselves and others is an experiment worth running — and here, we make the lab fun, quirky, and sometimes a little uncomfortable. Gain clarity, laugh a little, and leave with insights that stick.

Join the Conversation

Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you listen. Follow the lab online, join our community, and be part of the ongoing experiment.

#HumanPetriDish #HumanBehaviour #Relationships #Leadership #TheRelationshipLab #RModelTheory #HealthyRelationships #RelationalIntelligence #Trust #OnlineDating #Dating #HumanCentricLeadership #PsychologicalSafety #RegFlags #EmotionalDetox #ToxicRelationships #DatingApps #AICompanions #Marriage #Divorce

Listen on:

  • Apple Podcasts
  • Podbean App
  • Spotify
  • Amazon Music
  • iHeartRadio
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  • BoomPlay

Episodes

Wednesday Sep 03, 2025

This week, Jericho and Drew dive headfirst into the messy, fascinating experiment we all live inside: human relationships. 💥
 
They’ll play with three big ideas:
Confidence — what it really takes to show up boldly with another person.
 
The Vital-Base — the foundation of who we are and why ignoring it makes everything wobble and unstable.
 
Motivations & Desires — the sparks that drive us forward, sideways, and sometimes into unexpected places.
 
Expect curious questions, playful tangents, and a couple of “aha” moments you won’t see coming. Think of it as science-meets-storytelling with a dash of humour and science. 
 
Jericho and Drew are in the Relationship Lab, and you’re invited to join the experiment.

Tuesday Sep 09, 2025

In this episode of "The Human Petri Dish," hosts Jericho and Āndrew delve into the intricate dynamics of identity and essence.
 
They explore the R-Model's insights into human relationships, discussing how understanding the essence of self can enhance personal and professional interactions.
 
From the significance of psychological safety in the workplace to the impact of unspoken words, this conversation offers a profound look at how authenticity and energy shape our connections.
Join Jericho and Āndrew as they navigate the complexities of self-awareness and leadership, aiming to foster more vibrant and meaningful relationships.

Thursday Sep 11, 2025

In this engaging episode, Jericho and Āndrew delve into the intricacies of the R-Model, exploring its application in understanding self-awareness and relationships.
They discuss how the R-Model can be used to navigate different worldviews and the effects of isolation on personal development.
Through insightful dialogue, they encourage listeners to examine their own connections and the significance of empathy and self-discovery.
 
Tune in for a thought-provoking journey into the heart of identity and human interaction.

Saturday Sep 13, 2025

Thursday Sep 18, 2025

In this thought-provoking episode, Jericho and Andrew delve into the complexities of human relationships and the R model, exploring themes of endings, beginnings, and the critical role of relationships in our lives.
They discuss the impact of past experiences on our present and future, the importance of relationship awareness, and the challenges of navigating life's uncertainties.
Join them as they share personal insights and reflections on how to foster meaningful connections and embrace the journey of growth together.

Friday Sep 19, 2025

In this episode, Jericho and Āndrew delve into the complexities of relationships, exploring themes of self-worth, purpose, and the critical role relationships play in our lives.
They discuss the importance of intentionality in relationships, the concept of connected autonomy, and how understanding the purpose of a relationship can lead to healthier, more sustainable connections.
Join them as they navigate the intricate dynamics of human interaction, offering insights and reflections that resonate on both personal and professional levels.

Thursday Sep 25, 2025

Ending Well: The Art of Professional Goodbyes
In this thought-provoking episode, Āndrew delves into the often-overlooked art of ending professional relationships with care and intention. They explore why goodbyes matter, not just personally, but organisationally and how companies can evolve their exit processes to foster trust, dignity, and long-term connection.
Through candid conversation and real-world insights, the duo highlights the emotional and cultural impact of professional endings, revealing how a human-centric approach can transform transitions into opportunities for growth and goodwill.
Key Themes:
The emotional landscape of professional endings
Creating compassionate exit experiences
Maintaining positive legacies and organisational health
The psychology of closure and its role in resilience
Why Listen?
Whether you’re a leader, HR professional, or someone navigating change, this episode offers fresh perspectives on how to end well—and why every ending is also a beginning.
Links:
The Relationship Lab | Website
The Relationship Lab | LinkedIn Page
Andrew Boyton | LinkedIn Profile
About the Hosts
Āndrew Boyton
A dedicated coach, counsellor and consultant with 23 years of experience helping individuals, couples and families navigate life challenges to achieve their life goals. He works with people to gain inner peace, develop resilience, and build healthy, lasting relationships. With care, commitment, and compassion, he specialises in supporting individuals and organisations dealing with trauma, loss, or struggle, especially when feeling misunderstood, lost, confused, or hopeless.
Join the Conversation
Listen, subscribe, and share your reflections. How does your organisation say goodbye? What could ending well look like for you?#DigitalCommunication #Modern #Relationships #Texting #Etiquette #Reciprocity #EmotionalIntelligence #OnlineDating #HealthyConnection #EmpathyInRelationships #RelationshipPodcast #TheHumanPetriDish #AndrewBoyton #TheRelationshipLab

Thursday Sep 25, 2025


Reciprocity in the Digital Age | The Human Petri Dish
Welcome to The Human Petri Dish, where we examine what makes modern connection thrive, or sometimes glitch.
In this episode, Andrew and Jericho take a closer look at reciprocity in digital communication, that delicate dance of give-and-take that defines how we connect online. From the emotional weight of a “seen” message to the artful placement of an emoji, they explore how intention, empathy, and curiosity can turn digital exchanges into genuine human connection.
It’s a conversation about presence in a world of pings and previews — and how understanding the psychology of response can help us build trust, care, and clarity through the screen.
In This Episode
Why reciprocity is vital in digital conversations.
How “read receipts” and delayed replies affect emotional balance.
The subtle power of emojis and tone in written connection.
How curiosity and positive intent transform online dialogue.
Why Listen?
Whether you’re managing a team remotely, texting a partner, or navigating online communities, this episode will help you reflect on how to communicate with care and clarity. Expect humour, honesty, and some “aha” moments about the modern language of empathy.
About Andrew Boyton
Andrew is a dedicated coach, counsellor, and consultant with over 23 years of experience helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges and achieve their goals. He works with people to gain inner peace, develop resilience, and build healthy, lasting relationships.
With care, commitment, and compassion, Andrew specialises in supporting individuals and organisations who are dealing with trauma, loss, or struggle, especially those who feel misunderstood, lost, confused, or hopeless. His work bridges psychology, leadership, and relational science to help people grow stronger together.
Mila Smith
Mila is a certified relationship and dating coach dedicated to helping individuals build and maintain healthy, fulfilling connections. After spending years in the corporate world, she decided to pursue her true passion: guiding men and women in their quest to find ideal partners and cultivate lasting happiness in their relationships.
Drawing on her extensive experience and training, Mila provides insightful advice, practical strategies, and personalised support to empower her clients in achieving their relationship goals. Her approach blends humour, empathy, and realism — creating a safe space where people can rediscover trust, confidence, and joy in connection.
Links:
The Relationship Lab | Website
The Relationship Lab | LinkedIn Page
Andrew Boyton | LinkedIn Profile
Single to Couple | Website
Mila Smith | LinkedIn Profile
Join the Experiment!
Listen, like, and share with friends — and if you’ve got your own digital dilemmas, we’d love to hear from you! Join our WhatsApp community and keep the conversation alive beyond the inbox.
#HumanPetriDish #DigitalConnection #Reciprocity #Empathy #Relationships #Dating #OnlineCommunication #Relationships #AndrewBoyton #MilaSmith #TheRelationshipLab

Tuesday Oct 07, 2025

Ready to Date? | Dating Coach Mila Smith Gives Advice
Welcome to the Lab! Get ready to dive into the delightful chaos of love with relationship expert Mila Smith and your ever-curious host, Andrew Boyton! In this episode, we unravel the tangled web of romance, exploring why finding "the one" might just be a myth and how emotional baggage can be your unexpected travel companion.
Mila shares her journey from relationship mishaps to matchmaking mastery, offering playful yet profound insights into trust, mutuality, and the art of loving wisely. Tune in for a rollercoaster of revelations and a sprinkle of humour as we navigate the wild world of relationships!
What You’ll Discover
Fun and practical advice for dating in the modern world.
Insights into emotional baggage, trust, and building mutual connections.
Real-life stories and professional tips from dating coach Mila Smith.
Why Listen?
If you’re ready to explore the playful, messy, and enlightening side of love, this episode is your perfect companion. Learn to navigate dating challenges, recognize patterns, and approach relationships with curiosity, humour, and wisdom.
Links:
The Relationship Lab | Website
The Relationship Lab | LinkedIn Page
Andrew Boyton | LinkedIn Profile
Single to Couple | Website
Mila Smith | LinkedIn Profile
Join the Experiment!
Listen now, like, subscribe, and share with friends. Want to discuss your dating experiences or ask questions? Join our WhatsApp community and bring your curiosity straight to the lab!
#HumanPetriDish #DatingPodcast #RelationshipAdvice #MilaSmith #TrustAndMutuality #Coaching #Relationships #DatingApps #Dating

Tuesday Oct 07, 2025

Green Flag | Exploring the Whimsical World of Dating | Mila Smith & Andrew Boyton
Welcome to the Lab! Join the delightful duo, Mila Smith and Andrew Boyton, as they dive into the whimsical world of dating and relationships! In this episode, we unravel the mysteries of love, from the art of self-discovery to the magic of finding your perfect match.
With a sprinkle of humour and a dash of wisdom, Mila shares her secrets on avoiding dating disasters and embracing the quirks that make us unique. Get ready for a rollercoaster of laughs and aha moments as you learn to navigate the dating scene with clarity, honesty, and a whole lot of fun!
What You’ll Discover
Tips for self-discovery and understanding your own relationship patterns.
How to recognize and embrace the quirks that make you and your partner unique.
Practical advice from dating coach Mila Smith on avoiding common dating pitfalls.
Fun and insightful stories to navigate the dating scene with confidence and humor.
Why Listen?
If you want to approach dating with clarity, honesty, and a sense of fun, this episode is your guide. Learn how to connect authentically, laugh along the way, and make wiser relationship choices.
Links:
The Relationship Lab | Website
The Relationship Lab | LinkedIn Page
Andrew Boyton | LinkedIn Profile
Single to Couple | Website
Mila Smith | LinkedIn Profile
Join the Experiment!
Listen now, like, subscribe, and share with friends. Have questions or stories about dating to discuss? Join our WhatsApp community and bring your curiosity straight to the lab!
Tags: #HumanPetriDish #DatingPodcast #RelationshipAdvice #MilaSmith #SelfDiscovery #FindingLove #Singles #Loneliness

The Relationship Lab (2025)

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