A little late but I figure late is better than never ;)

Just about to take off for an audition in LA but before I do, here are a few Dirty SOB Q&A's we got in.

Remember - if you have a question, email me at: dirtysob@modlife.com

Q: What in your opinion is a healthy way for a couple to discuss their pasts? When do you feel is a good time to do so and how much disclosure do you recommend? I'm from the school of being open and discussing things. I've encountered some couples who prefer to discuss nothing of their pasts though and I wonder sometimes if my curiosity is more detrimental than beneficial.
 
Jess: Discuss things if and when you want to discuss them. In the end, it is your decision as to whether or not you want to share personal information. Additionally, have the same respect for the person you are with. If they want to stay close-lipped while you spill the beans, understand that it is their right to plead the 5th.

This does get a little tangled when one's sexual history enters the discussion.  The argument (which is somewhat valid IMO) is that if a person is agreeing to sleep with you, they should know what they're signing up for - mostly since it regards their health. If you find yourself in a situation where you do not want to give a laundry list of your bed mates and you're with someone who wants to know for health reasons, then I recommend making an appointment for the both of you to go and take an STD test. That way, you can both start off in your relationship on an even keel without having to bring up the ghosts of girlfriends/boyfriends past.

Q: So what do I do?  How does a socially awkward person meet new people without having to rely on the acquaintances of friends or resort to online dating?  How does one get out of the dreaded "friend zone", and maybe more importantly, why is that a bad place to be?  (Jess: This was an exceptionally long question, so has been greatly edited down).

Jess: First of all, there is nothing wrong with online dating. It's the same deal you have to go through in real life (especially if you're wanting to avoid relying on family & friends for a hook-up). If anything, it might be slightly easier because you can filter through a group of people online before even dealing with having to chat them up in real life. Like all things though- make sure and follow the rules: Let people know who you will be with, where and for how long. Always remember that the person sitting across from you is a stranger and you, at this point, know nothing about them - so use your noodle.

As for falling into the "friends zone," there's nothing wrong with it....technically. But is that really something you want? If not, it's probably best to just call it a clean break, admit defeat on the dating circuit with that certain individual of choice and keep them as more of a friendly acquaintance, rather than an actual "let's hang out" kind of friend. And I hate to say it but, once you're in the "friends zone," there's really no way to get out of it.

Q: I really like this guy, I've liked him for a long time, like years...  but I only know him online... what should I do?

Jess: Ask him to hang out face-to-face obviously! If you choose to do so, take the advice that I posted above regarding safety. I can NOT stress enough: let people know where and who you are going to be hanging out with. Also, for the first few meetings, try to meet somewhere very public and in the daytime (like a cafe or something). Always better safe than sorry.

Q: I know many ways to approach women, but really be honest if a random guy approached you and he was pretty good looking what would you want to hear from him? Or in other words whats the best way to introduce yourself without sounding like a creeper or like you are just into women for sex?

I'm asking this because every time I see a girl I might be interested in getting to know I have no idea how to introduce my self without sounding like a creeper or an idiot :P

Jess: You actually just answered your own question. The best thing to do is just introduce yourself, tell her honestly why you stopped her and ask her out on a date. Be polite and non-aggressive. Take her response at face value and, if you find yourself rejected, remain the gentleman you are and leave her be.