An Unexpected Love Story: 15 Years, 8 Lessons, and Lifelong Growth
- Tosca DiMatteo
- Jun 26
- 2 min read
June 19th marks 15 years of marriage with my husband, Ryan, a journey that’s been as unexpected as it’s been transformative. As I reflect on our story, I share how much our relationship has shaped not just my personal life, but also how these lessons have shaped my professional life as well. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at our journey and the key lessons I’ve learned along the way.
How We Met: Trusting Intuition Over Logic
At 24, I moved to Michigan State for my MBA, focused on building a marketing career. I wasn’t looking for love, but a chance invitation to a party changed everything. That night, I met Ryan. Despite his party antics (and a memorable keg stand), I was drawn to his authentic smile and fun energy. Sometimes, you just have to trust your body and intuition, even when your mind hasn’t caught up yet.
Building a Life Together
Our connection was instant, but our path wasn’t always easy. We navigated long distance, career moves, and the leap to entrepreneurship in our respective businesses. Through it all, honest communication and a willingness to grow individually and together, became our foundation.
8 Lessons in Love and Leadership
Over 15 years, these are the lessons that have shaped both my relationship and my approach to life and work:
Your Journey Is Your Own: Don’t waste energy comparing your path to others what’s right for you is unique.
Trust Your Gut: Often, your heart knows before your mind does. Listen to your intuition when making big decisions.
Love Without Conditions: You deserve to be loved fully, flaws and all. Safety and acceptance are non-negotiable.
Communicate Clearly: Ask for what you need, don’t assume others know. Clarity avoids misunderstandings and disappointment.
Check In Regularly: Whether it’s about values, dreams, or needs, ongoing honest conversations keep you growing together.
Break Old Patterns: Notice habits that hold you back and be willing to work through them, together or with support.
Freedom and Commitment Can Coexist: True partnership allows space for both individuality and deep connection.
Relationships Require Ongoing Work: Relationships require continuous tending, whether through therapy, honest talks, or shared adventures.
An Invitation to Reflect
Our story is a reminder that tending to the soil of your closest relationships can spark transformation in every area of life. Whether you’re partnered, single, or somewhere in-between, these lessons apply to love, leadership, and growth. Here’s to embracing your own path, trusting your intuition, and nurturing the connections that help you thrive
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Curious about the full story, our connection to Juneteenth, the real-life moments, and the deeper lessons that shaped our 15-year journey? Listen to the complete episode of "An Unexpected Love Story" for all the behind the scenes details, personal anecdotes, and insights that didn’t make it into this blog.
