Joining me today is author, matchmaker, and relationship coach, Rachel Russo.

Kristin: What did you study in college? Did you plan on becoming a Matchmaker/Relationship Coach?

Rachel: I earned my BA in psychology at Rutgers University and went on to get my master’s degree in Marriage & Family Therapy at Iona College. I planned to become a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, but it seems God had other plans.

When I read the ad for the first job I landed as a Matchmaker five years ago, I thought “I must get this position!” Relationship coaching was a natural progression for someone with my education, clinical background, and matchmaking experience.

Kristin: The relationship coaching industry is unique. Tell us about it!

Rachel: Indeed, it is unique! It is clearly different from consulting or therapy in the sense that direct solutions are not always given as in consulting, and the exploration of past relationships, patterns, and emotional issues isn’t as deep as in therapy. Like a therapist, a relationship coach is objective and supportive as possible in working with an individual or couple, but the focus is more on giving the client skills and feedback that will directly promote change in the near future. Homework assignments are a must!

Kristin: What advice would you give to women that are looking for love, right now?

Rachel: Make your love life a priority! Be open minded about how you meet your match, whether it be online or offline. Do not think you are too good to get help in finding love. Be too good to put up with anyone who doesn’t value you for the fabulous woman you are. Cut men some slack though-most are good guys who really just don’t know how to make you happy!

Kristin: Since you have a background in fashion and writing and have successfully built your own brand, what advice would you give to women on personal brand building?

Rachel: Figure out who you want to be and live, breathe, and be it -every day! Evaluate the message you are sending with everything you do. A couple months ago, I did a gig modeling designer business wear for the Dolce Channel, an internet television show that is a classy celebration of everything Italian. I’m Italian (and some say sweet), so that was a no-brainer. My motto: if it doesn’t go with your brand, just say no!

Kristin: How would you describe a typical day “in your heels”?

Rachel: In my heels, no day is typical! My bosses at Master Matchmakers, Steve and JoAnn Ward, keep me on my toes. I could be interviewing a New Yorker as a potential matchmaking client in a swanky midtown restaurant one hour and doing a Skype coaching session in my pajamas with a client in Arizona the next.

My career is more of a lifestyle than a 9 to 5. Whether I am calling new leads, making matches, writing profiles, or updating my blog, I do what needs to be done!

Rachel Russo is a Matchmaker and Relationship Coach for Master Matchmakers in the greater NYC area. To learn more about Rachel and view her portfolio of published writing on relationships and dating, view her official website at www.rachelrusso.com.