I Hate Dating Apps

Everyone thinks they're a great communicator… until they open a dating app. 😅 If you've ever struggled to get a conversation off the ground with a total stranger—or found yourself stuck at a painful "hello"—this episode is for you. Daniel and Jinah sit down with Rebecca Williams, a professional communications coach who advises top CEOs and recently found herself back on the dating apps. (https://rebecca-williams.com/#top) With both expert insight and real-world experience, Rebecca shares practical tips and mindset shifts to help you move past awkward openers and into actual connection.   This episode covers dating app communication tips, messaging mistakes to avoid, how to stand out without overthinking, and what actually works when talking to strangers online. Whether you're new to dating apps or burned out by ghosting and stalled conversations, this episode will help you communicate with more confidence and clarity.

Michel is a successful single dad and self-described traditionalist who believes in asking a woman out, planning the date, and paying for it. But when it comes to dating apps, he says finding a woman who appreciates his values feels nearly impossible. In this episode, we dive into modern dating culture, dating app expectations, and whether traditional romance still has a place in today's swipe-driven world. Do dating apps reward effort—or misunderstand it? ⚠️ Warning: Strong opinions, honest takes, and zero sugarcoating ahead.

Like many of us, Michelle wasn't having much luck finding love on dating apps. So one day, she decided to stop searching for Mr. Right and start looking for Mr. Right Now. After changing her profile to a direct ask for sex… things got weird. In this episode, Jinah and Daniel dive into the wild world of online hookups, unsolicited pics, and honest sexual exploration. Joining guest Michelle is Hily's (Hily.com) resident sexologist, Dr. Mindy DeSeta, who shares expert tips on how to turn awkward sex talk into actual satisfaction.

Jinah's neighbor Rick has had more than his fair share of dating disasters. From a woman who kicked off their evening by shaving the calluses off her feet, to another who couldn't stop dropping F-bombs at a nice restaurant, Rick just can't seem to catch a break. His stories are a snapshot of the cringe, chaos, and comedy we've all come to know from modern dating apps. But no matter how many fails he racks up, there are two things about himself Rick refuses to change.

Rejection is part of dating—but on apps, it can feel relentless. A thousand swipes for a single match, only to get ghosted. What used to be competition with a handful of people at a bar is now competition with everyone in your city (or even your state). In this episode, Daniel and Jinah sit down with mental health therapist @iamthatboyphil and writer @ivyeats to unpack the emotional burnout, self-sabotage, and unrealistic expectations that dating apps so often create.

Everyone swears they've got it the worst on dating apps — men, women, you name it. But who actually takes the crown for the most tragic (and hilarious) experiences? In this episode, Daniel and Jinah sit down with Ryan Lugo and Akosua Mireku (@poem.a.day.project) to swap war stories from the wild world of online dating. Cringe, laugh, and maybe even cry a little as we ask the ultimate question: is anyone actually winning on these apps?

We've all made cringeworthy mistakes in the quest for love (some of us more than others—ahem, Jinah). But according to our guest, there are FIVE big dating missteps that people repeat again and again… and they might just be what's keeping you single. This week, we're joined by dating coach, relationship strategist, and host of the YouTube show Dating Makeover, Lana Ricco (@lana.ricco). She's currently writing a book titled The 5 Biggest Dating Mistakes Keeping You Single (and How to Fix Them)—but lucky for you, she's breaking them all down for us right here. Spoiler: Jinah's guilty of pretty much every single one.

Falling for a scammer posing as a romantic interest? It happens more often than you'd think—and not just to the naïve. Even the most seasoned dating app users can get caught in a web of sweet talk and stolen valor. In this episode, we chat with private investigator Shelley Cain, whose job is all about catching cheaters and unmasking frauds. She shares how scammers often hide behind fake badges, ranks, and uniforms —and how to spot the red flags before your heart (and bank account) takes a hit. Plus, a real-life cautionary tale of a lonely heart.

Think dropping thousands of dollars on a matchmaker guarantees love? Think again. In this juicy episode, a former elite matchmaker to the ultra-wealthy pulls back the velvet curtain on the wild world of high-stakes dating. From ghosted millionaires to clients who refuse second dates with perfect matches, she shares the real drama behind the glam. With over 5,000 love-seeking souls coached, she's seen it all—and she's spilling her most surprising, hilarious, and brutally honest lessons about modern romance.  With @carolynhori

In this episode, we dive into the most common mistakes (and Jinah's pet peeves) that people make when creating their dating app profiles. (Sunglasses in every photo... like WHY??!) Whether you're new to online dating or a seasoned swiper, your profile plays a major role in making a lasting impression. With our guests John DeMato and Nancy Vu - @theboo522 and @dematophoto - we break down the top red flags to watch out for, from questionable bios to photos that don't quite hit the mark. Tune in for expert advice on crafting a profile that attracts the right matches, boosts your confidence, and keeps things authentic. Don't miss out on these essential tips for navigating the world of digital romance!

Let's be honest—Valentine's Day is a commercial holiday designed to sell flowers and overpriced dinners. But even if we know that, it still stirs up emotions, especially for those who are single. For this special Valentine's Week episode, hosts Daniel and Jinah sit down with two top relationship coaches to explore the question: How do you get someone to fall in love with you? If you've met someone you really like, what are the best ways to build attraction and connection? What common mistakes should you avoid? And perhaps most importantly—it is even worth all of the effort? Joining the conversation are dating experts Lisa Copeland(@lisacopelanddatingcoach; https://findaqualityman.com/) and Mike Goldstein(@ezdatingcoach; https://ezdatingcoach.com), who share their insights on attraction, love, and authentic relationship-building. �� Topics Covered: ✔️ The psychology of attraction and emotional connection ✔️ Do's and don'ts when trying to spark romance ✔️ Why forcing love might backfire—and what to do instead Whether you're single, dating, or just curious about love and relationships, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you navigate the modern dating world.

We know dating apps are a shit show for most people, but it's especially true for men who are on them, and statistics validate this.  But when does it get SO BAD that you just need to take a break from them??  In this episode, we talk to two young, smart, good looking men about why they decided to take a break from dating apps.  Guests Bryan (@commonsense150) and Austin (@theaustinkellyshow) echo what so many other men say about modern dating: it's tough out there!  But what's the alternative? 

We've all had it happen to us: you strike up a great conversation with someone on a dating app, and it looks like it SHOULD be heading to a real-life date.  Except it doesn't.   Why, oh why do people - who are presumably on the dating app to DATE - want to text endlessly instead?  Or worse - ghost you when you suggest actually meeting IRL?   Jinah and Daniel are joined by two guests: Kari Mendoza - @808golfergirl and Alex Min - @alexsmin as they try to get to the bottom of this WTF conundrum.

Statistics upon statistics show that it's pretty rough for the great majority of men on dating apps.  Just 10% (or less) of men get ALL the women liking them, leaving some 90% of men with little to no swipes, matches, conversations, dates - and thus - romantic relationships.  Men are lonelier than ever.  Why is this happening??  What's the solution?  And what's it REALLY like out there if you're a dude on the apps?  Jinah and Daniel drill down to the problem with two male app daters.  With @newsdork and @alexjcalder

Do you long for the good ole days before we had dating apps, when finding your match was an IRL event? In this episode, Daniel and Jinah chat with matchmaker and author Cassindy Chao (@matchmakercassindy). Her book, Ancient Wisdom, Modern Love, uses traditional Chinese proverbs as a source of modern dating advice. You'll want to check out Cassindy's advice for standing out on the apps, including her advice for how to make an impression that lasts, long after the date is over.

Are more and more older women dating younger men? While we're used to seeing famous women as "cougars," these May-December romances may be going mainstream. At first, Jinah thought her matches with younger men were exceptions, but then they kept on coming. So I Hate Dating Apps enlisted relationship coach Deb Dutcher to explain why this is happening, and what it means for the modern dating scene. Cougars, unite!

YESSSS! Jinah and Daniel are officially in year TWO of their podcast!  And in this debut episode of season 2, you get to know us a little bit better.  The dynamic duo muses about topics like whether dating for marriage even makes sense anymore, how growing up Jehovah's Witness shaped Jinah into who she became (and maybe explains why her dating life is a hot mess), and how Daniel used to make money off of cannibis and young, hot Korean boy bands (it's not what you think, people).  THANK YOU for supporting our baby podcast and for having fun with us as we navigate this crazy world of dating apps!

So you're sick and tired of the dating apps and you want to go back to trying your luck with IRL - In Real Life.  You're hitting bar after club after bar - and soon realize you just don't have the guts every weekend to hit up the cute guy or girl on your own.  This is where the wingman (or wing woman) comes in!  They have NO problem going up to someone as long as they're "asking for a friend."   In this episode, Daniel and Jinah talk to Hunter Werner (@hunterwoty), who created a whole movement around dating with a wingman in tow.  The founder of WingmanOfTheYear.com, Hunter started a dating show and a digital media brand based on the Wingman culture. He dishes about setting his friends up, the problem with guys (and girls) and - of course - why dating apps are sooooo bad.

Dating apps suck for everyone, but it sucks even worse if you're introverted and socially anxious.  So what is one to do when the idea of getting dressed up, going out and talking to someone for hours at a bar or restaurant sounds worse than a root canal??  Jinah and Daniel talk to writer and relationship coach Cain Parish (cainparish.com, @cainparish), who is on a mission to make dating better for everyone, but especially introverts. Cain was the definition of a low social battery introvert.  Interactions and relationships never came easy to him.  He talks about how he overcame his challenges, and how he managed to successfully navigate the world of dating apps. Did we mention he's from Australia? Apparently dating apps suck Down Under too.

What is it like to be in the dating app world over the age of 50?  Well... it's a bit of a shit show according to author, equestrian, and radio DJ Catherine Berra (CatherineBerra.com).  Catherine ventured out into the world of online dating at 48, spent 10 years trying to figure it all out and the resulting hilarious dating stories are now in her book "These stories are true... I s#!+ you not!" She shares some of them with Jinah and Daniel. Join us for a lively discussion about "dating app"-ing when older.

So you're about to delete your dating apps.  Again.  But then you realize - how am I gonna meet people then??  Before you panic and re-install your dating app, listen to our two professional matchmaker guests talk about what it's like to have someone literally working for you so you can go on curated dates.  Hint: it ain't cheap!!  Matchmaking is as old as civilization. From the days of highly prized matchmakers who knew just the right princess for the king-to-be, to glossy ads on airline magazines adverstising beautiful women for men with refined tastes and deep pockets, matching has now evolved.  But does is still work in the DIY world of dating apps where the majority of people are looking for romance via swipes? We talk to 2 modern day matchmakers Gina Hendrix @matchmakerginahendrix and  Anika Rashaun @nikarashaun

Not so long ago, it was pretty darn clear who was supposed to ask who out on the first date.  Not anymore.  In this Wild Wild West of app dating, the rules have gone out the window, resulting in confusion for some, resentment in others, and lack of courage and effort all the way around.  We ask our guests Luis (@uonmobileapp) and Samantha (@skmcintosh) who should make the first move?

To delete or not to delete…that was the question facing our guests @laylamyarr and @susan.pappas. Tired of bad dates, endless messaging, and misleading profiles, they were resigning themselves to permanent single status when lightning struck! Check out our newest episode and hear what happened right when they were about to give up!

Ladies —if you're wondering what "the good catches" are looking for on dating apps, this episode is for you!  We look at straight men's biggest pet peeves with women on the apps.  Why won't women give men a chance?? Featuring bachelor guests Joshua, @jj_no_chaser and Dhruv,  @midlifemasculine

Sometimes, women just need to DISH on all the things we find wrong with dating MEN on the apps.  This is that episode.  With guests @marialingbanan and @mayleeshow

Jinah's been braving it all on her own on the apps.  But let's be real - it's rough out there! So - we signed up relationship coaches Charlene Byars of CharleneByars.com and Jesse and Brandon of datingcoaches.net - to give the male and female coaches' perspectives on what Jinah should do to find real love.   And what they said... wasn't exactly what Jinah expected to hear.  Featuring @brandonjesse_unloaded, @mscharlenebyars - who also coached our friend Kayvon in an earlier episode.

Jinah shares her experience of a date that took an unexpected turn when her companion revealed he had Asperger's. In this insightful episode, we delve into the complexities of dating on the Autism Spectrum, exploring how neurotypical individuals can approach relationships with understanding and empathy.  Featuring discussions with guests Bobby Cappuccio (@theselfhelpantidote) and clinical ASD specialist Anna Marie Dorelien (@adorelienbcba). Tune in for expert advice and meaningful conversations on navigating the diverse neurotypes in the landscape of modern dating. 

Kayvon, a former guest on the "Ghosting" episode of our podcast, hasn't had any luck on dating apps - literally hasn't gone on a single date - despite being on Tinder, Bumble, Hinge, Coffee Meets Bagel - and about 6 others. Kayvon is super cool - so WTF is going on?? We signed up relationship coaches Jesse and Brandon of datingcoaches.net and Charlene Byars of CharleneByars.com - to give the male and female coaches' perspectives on what may be happening.   And what they said - was oh, so smooth....  Featuring @kayvonmradi, @brandonjesse_unloaded, @mscharlenebyars

Farmers Only, No Liberals, No Conservatives, Cat Lovers Only, etc... When Tinder, Bumble and Hinge just aren't working for you, why not go hyper-specific on your dating needs and wants?  In this episode, we dive deep into niche dating apps, with guests Jon Pethke of CoyAmore.com and Eric McHugh of Dataing.io who talk about apps that cater towards introverted daters and AI-assisted matchmaking. @coyamoredating @ericdmchugh @bone._apple._teeth

Surveys show that people of color have a tougher time on dating apps, and few have it worse than Asian and South Asian men. We talk to two prolific app daters who share their cringey experiences - and also answer this critical question: C'mon - didn't BTS make it better for you?? With guests @georgekiriyama and @archithseshadri

Let's face it - we all get to the point where we are sooooo burned out on dating apps, and we just want to DELETE them. But inevitably, many of us get back on 'em cuz... there aren't too many convenient alternatives out there. In this episode, we talk with two guests who swore off the dating apps, and tried to go old school. Did they have better luck?? With @wild_930 and @lornasoonhee

Does literally everyone lie on dating apps? Sure seems like it - whether it's about our age, height, jobs or size. And of course - we all have a justification about our "white lies."  Jinah, Daniel and our two guests talk about the most common lies on the apps, and decide where to draw the line between fact and fiction.  With guests @benbrookz and @facetsinpixels

 Why? Seriously, can someone explain WHY women and men seem to be so far apart in what we're looking for on dating apps?? Jinah and Daniel bring in two men and two women as guests so we can all chat about how the dating app experience differs for each sex. With guests @missvegatoyou @808golfergirl @kenneth.jacobs.733 and @commonsense150

After a three-hour second date and some great chemistry, our guest Maria (and we) are shocked at the real reason a suave British hunk ghosts her.  Hint: it unraveled over $5.  And fair warning: you'll have all kinds of opinions about this episode! Featuring @maria_hunt, @hanijkim, @dannoamanno, @ihatedatingappspod

Men - and yes, it's usually men - seem to go from 0 to Sexting after only a handful of messages. Or - as our guests have experienced, as the opening line after "hello, great to match with you."  What compels men to do that? Really - W to the T to the F???  Featuring guests: @dominiquedigi and @rahquel 

Bathroom selfies, all-sunglasses photos, bad grammar, negativity.  You've seen it all, and they SUCK.  And wait—is that your boyfriend's profile on Tinder? Don't jump to conclusions—we dive into our top dating app profile no-no's with two hilarious guests.

Why is ghosting so prevalent on dating apps? Don't EVEN get Jinah started on this topic - she'll get hives. We hear a particularly shitty ghosting story from our guest, and talk about how to read the situation. It's not you, it's them. Ok, maybe it's you.

Do dating apps suck just as badly if you're gay? We chat with two guests, two generations apart. We also dive into some stats and factoids, and how Grindr, one of the OGs of dating apps, changed the dating landscape for gay men.

Kelly is young, single and ready to brave the world of dating apps after a break. In this episode, Daniel and Jinah try to help her draft her new profile. Will they be helpful? Will it be disaster? Listen in to find out.

Jinah and Daniel talk about the genesis of the podcast, which involves a "WTF!" dating story with Raz. Thank you Raz, we now have a podcast.