#288 | Special Edition: The Hinge Experiment—What a Year on Hinge Revealed About Modern Dating

🎙 Douglas Vigliotti shares “The Hinge Experiment,” a personal reflection Op-ed on his year using the dating app Hinge in New York City. He discusses the challenges of up-next culture and app-based dating, the disconnect between online profiles and real-life attraction, and his preference for presence over performance. The episode encourages authenticity in relationships, highlighting the importance of being seen for who you truly are, something Vigliotti calls "the highest form of love, rather than who someone wants you to be. ✓ Sign up for the monthly newsletter at BooksforMen.org. 📚 Learn more about "Aristotle for Novelists" at AristotleforNovelists.com or READ IT NOW! ⚡️ Connect with the host on Instagram @douglasvigliotti or learn more about him at DouglasVigliotti.com. 🎧 Listen to Douglas Vigliotti's other podcast: Slightly Crooked: Good Stories, Told Well. ⭐️ Please consider sharing "Books for Men" with other men who enjoy reading, or subscribing and rating on your favorite podcast platform. Either goes a long way in helping new listeners find the show and inspire (more) men to read. 🗣️ If you liked this episode, listen to episode #278 | Special Edition: “One Plus One Doesn’t Equal Two” (+ Big Updates for 2026)! 💥 TOPICS COVERED IN THE EPISODE: Introduction & Newsletter Promotion (00:09) - Douglas introduces the episode, explains the pop-up piece format, and promotes the podcast’s companion newsletter. Why Share "The Hinge Experiment" (01:10) - He explains the Instagram origin of the piece, its popularity, and why it’s being shared on the podcast. Personal Context & Instagram Stories (02:19) - Douglas discusses the personal nature of the piece, his usual privacy, and encourages following him on Instagram for more content. The Hinge Experiment: One Year on Hinge (03:22) - Douglas shares his one-year experience using Hinge in New York City, including stats and general impressions. Dating Apps vs. Real-Life Attraction (04:34) - He contrasts dating before and after apps, highlighting the disconnect between online profiles and real-life attraction. Performance vs. Presence in Dating (05:46) - Douglas critiques the performative nature of dating apps and expresses his preference for authenticity and presence. Conclusion & Podcast Promotion (06:51) - He wraps up the piece, thanks listeners, and encourages subscribing to the podcast. Contact & Further Resources (08:06) - Douglas shares how to contact him, promotes his book, and provides information about the podcast and newsletter.