By Josephine “Josie” Goldberg
At 26, I was a Playboy model appearing on Patti Stanger’s The Millionaire Matchmaker, convinced that love, glamour, and a millionaire might go hand in hand. Fifteen-plus years later, at 44, I’ve discovered something much more valuable: my own voice.
On the show, I remember Patti criticizing my figure and calling me an Amazon and “freakishly Jewish tall.” At five-foot-ten, I had to wonder: was I looking for a husband or auditioning to play the Statue of Liberty?
Patti did open doors. She introduced me to successful men, including a date with someone from the Kreiss luxury furniture business. The irony? I could admire the furniture, but I had no intention of becoming part of the inventory!
I began to feel that some wealthy men wanted arm candy who would smile and say little. But I wanted conversation and chemistry. You can only make love for so long. Eventually, somebody has to open their mouth and have a conversation! And believe me, I’ve never struggled with that part.
At one point, I remember Patti telling me, “The doctors don’t want you.” My response? “I’ll make them want me!” At 26, I took rejection as a challenge. At 44, I know I don’t have to convince anyone to choose me.
Dating in Los Angeles can sometimes feel like a citywide competition to see who can put in the least effort. I still believe in romance, respect, courtship, and a man who knows how to make a reservation before midnight.
When I was in graduate school at Loyola Marymount University, I learned about the No Child Left Behind Act, signed into law by President George W. Bush in 2002. Now I have a playful proposal of my own through my company, Spoiled and Entitled: NWLB, No Woman Left Behind!
It’s not an actual law. It’s my 2026 motto: no woman should feel she has aged out of romance or must shrink herself to be loved. Women don’t come with expiration dates.
Today I’m an entertainment reporter for The Hollywood Times, a real estate broker, and the founder of Spoiled and Entitled. I’m also trying to win my shot with Ryan Seacrest “Vote Top Host” for a chance to have a podcast produced by him & iHeart Radio.
Apparently, my greatest flaw on reality television turned out to be a professional qualification!
Patti and I crossed paths again at events and are on good terms. I thank her for the introductions, her determination, and for helping pave the way for outspoken women in entertainment. I don’t want to imitate every part of her tough-love approach, but age has helped me understand her better.
At 26, I thought I needed a millionaire. At 44, I know I need a man who can afford to listen.
