Patrick Wall, Style Editor
Ever told someone to be a “fat penguin”? Probably not. For most people, talking like this would earn them a fair share of strange looks. For Dave Coleman, it is what he does for a living.
Affectionately known as the “Dating Doctor,” Coleman has spoken to over two million people, spending his career helping men and women around the world deal with issues of relationships, dating and sex.
Last Monday, Coleman brought his wealth of expertise to George Mason University.
He spoke to a crowd of nearly 100 people for two hours, addressing everything from how to maintain long-distance relationships to why “friends with benefits” never works.
Rather than giving a lecture, Coleman brought humor and entertainment. Instead of being corny and out of touch, Coleman won over the crowd with his striking personality and down-to-earth style.
Most of the evening’s lighter moments came during the audience participation phases. Coleman gently heckled the crowd, rewarding correct answers with treats, and in one instance, an entire bag of candy.
“It was refreshing and interesting,” said senior conflict analysis and resolution major Lillie McVey. “The program brought forth students’ sexual desires and embarrassment in a comforting way.”
The presentation, titled “Making Relationships Matter,” focused on dating, sex and relationships.
Coleman dove headfirst into issues facing both men and women, as well as how best to overcome the differences in the genders.
Coleman drove these points home by using memorable catchphrases like the aforementioned “fat penguin.” (For the record, a “fat penguin” is someone who breaks the ice. Get it?)
While attending Bowling Green University, Coleman garnered a reputation for being able to meet anyone.
“I just had the type of personality where I could meet people effortlessly, including women,” Coleman said. “My friends used to fight to be my wingman.”
During his time as Student Activities director in college, Coleman gave seminars around his native Ohio.
Before long, organizations began paying him for his work, and the rest is history.
Over 250 presentations later, the “Doctor” has been named Speaker of the Year 12 times by two different publications.
He has authored five books and contributed on several more.
For Coleman, working with college students allows him to speak to audiences that truly want to understand his message.
“College students really seem to care about my material,” said Coleman. “College students are at the perfect age and mindset to take what I discussed and put it into action immediately.
For more information on Coleman, including links to purchase his books or book him for a seminar, visit www.datingdoctor.com.
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