Welcome back to another episode of First Round’s on Me, a First Round’s On Media Production. Today we’re shaking things up and diving into the wild world of dating theories, because let’s be real, modern dating sometimes feels like it needs a user manual. And who better to helps us decode it all than Sydney Meister, associate lifestyle editor of PureWow and cohost of Cupid’s Corner, where she turns hours of research into digestible TikTok-worthy wisdom. We’re talking Box Theory, are you dateable or just a situationship placeholder, Cartier vs. Knockoff: are you the real deal or giving discount energy, and the 80/20 rule. Plus, we unpack why Gen Z is ditching dating apps for Instagram DMs and whether “soonicorns,” AKA guys with potential, are worth the investment or just a bad stock pick.If you’re loving the conversation, hit that like button, drop a comment with your thoughts, and hit subscribe for more unfiltered dating talk on First Round’s on Me! ✨For detailed show notes, navigate using the timestamps below:2:25 Does Writing Affect Dating?6:28 Banter13:36 Ideal First Date?16:42 Is Box Theory Real?25:35 Cartier or Knockoff?31:33 Biological Clock39:19 Are “Soonacorns” Worth It?49:20 Be DelusionalDownload FROM: https://firstroundsonme.co Instagram: / firstroundsonme TikTok: / firstroundsonmeapp Joe: https://www.instagram.com/firstroundsonjoe/Hannah : https://www.instagram.com/hannah_glasby/Sydney: https://www.purewow.com/author/sydney-meister

In this episode of First Rounds On Me, we welcome back the incredible Erica Ettin—dating coach, founder of A Little Nudge, and the ultimate myth-buster of modern love. Known for her fearless takedowns of bad dating advice and no-nonsense approach to finding connection, Erica joins us to answer the internet’s burning questions about dating apps, confidence, first impressions, and communication.From the biggest mistakes people make on dating apps, to the truth about “if he wanted to, he would,” to profile photo do’s and don’ts, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and game-changing advice.Whether you’re single, dating, or just love hearing stories about modern romance, this is the dating advice you actually want to hear.👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and drop your biggest dating app question in the comments!00:00 – Opening banter00:18 – Introduction: Erica Ettin, the no-nonsense dating coach01:11 – Returning guest & the evolution of dating challenges01:47 – The #1 problem clients face with dating apps03:07 – Dating mindset: Job search vs. relationship search04:03 – Learning from every date (building your “resume”)04:49 – Taking ownership: the lunch date story06:08 – Overthinking & communication pitfalls07:53 – Ghosting, double texting & why it doesn’t matter09:17 – Bad dating advice: “If he wanted to, he would…”11:12 – Behind the scenes of running clients’ dating apps13:34 – Pressure, expectations & telling friends about first dates16:20 – Why short app conversations work best17:55 – Dating app algorithms & client expectations21:11 – Confidence, self-love & the struggle in modern dating25:29 – How self-perception impacts attraction29:23 – The dating industry & app complaints31:12 – How to improve dating apps & dating habits32:08 – Video intros, voice notes & FaceTime debates33:15 – Redefining a “successful” date34:33 – Fake Fact Fridays & bad profile bios35:48 – The right photos for your dating profile38:06 – Text or Next: Opening line game43:22 – Pun-ishment or flirt alert: Pickup line showdown45:44 – Closing thoughts & where to find Erica Ettin

Today’s episode is one you won’t want to miss, as we are joined by the renowned Dr. Sophie Keller, PhD—psychologist, author, and expert in positive psychology. With over two decades of experience helping individuals and organizations cultivate happiness and well-being, Dr. Keller has dedicated her career to unlocking the keys to a happier, healthier life.In this episode, we’ll explore the fascinating intersection of modern dating, relationship dynamics, and the psychology behind human connection. From understanding the impact of dating apps to navigating rejection and building resilience, Dr. Keller will share practical tools and insights that will help you find and sustain meaningful connections. Plus, we’ll dive into fun segments like Red Flag or Green Light? and Dating Myth Busters, where Dr. Keller will weigh in on your burning questions about love, dating, and everything in between.If you’re loving the conversation, hit that like button, drop a comment with your thoughts, and hit subscribe for more unfiltered dating talk on First Round’s On Me! ✨Content of this video00:00 - Intro 01:50 Happiness Journey06:04 Bullying & Tall Poppy Syndrome11:33 Behaviors Conducive to Love14:23 Swipe Fatigue 21:24 Are Some People Bad at Dating?26:34 Meet-cute32:43 Opening the Circle of Love35:50 Dating Mythbusters44:22 Red Flag or Green LightDownload FROM: https://firstroundsonme.co Instagram: / firstroundsonme TikTok: / firstroundsonmeapp Joe: / firstroundsonjoe Hannah: / hannah_glasby Dr. Keller:https://www.swiperightloveadvice.com/ https://drsophiekeller.com/