The Washington Post – “When a ghost becomes a zombie: The dating phenomenon, in one screenshot” by Lisa Bonos

In this Washington Post piece exploring the common phenomenon of “zombie-ing” in modern dating—when a ghosted ex reappears out of the blue—Francesca Hogi weighs in as a featured expert. She shares both personal and professional insights about why so many people reemerge with no accountability and why it’s become so prevalent in the digital age.

Francesca explains:

“All these very casual ways of reaching out and contacting people… I think it gives [people] permission to say: Hey, the risk is very low.”

The article also highlights that not all zombies are doomed to fail—Francesca shares a story about her sister reconnecting with someone years later who showed up with real self-awareness and respect. Her guidance is clear: if you're tempted to reach out after ghosting, acknowledge the past and show up like a grownup.

Read: The Washington Post – When a ghost becomes a zombie