Fresh Conversations with Shani Silver: are dating apps a total scam?

In this episode of A Fresh Story, Olivia and Jenny talk to Shani Silver, an author and podcaster, about the exploitative nature of dating apps and the societal pressure to be in a relationship. They discuss the evolution of dating apps from websites to apps, and how these platforms prioritize profit over helping users find love. Shani emphasizes the importance of reframing single-hood and finding happiness while single. They also touch on the reactions to Shani's content and the lawsuit against Match Group for making love elusive on purpose. In this conversation, Shani Silver discusses the predatory nature of dating apps, the pressure to find love, and the importance of living authentically.

She highlights the lack of safety measures on dating apps and the need for change in dating app culture. Shani emphasizes the importance of living a fulfilling life and challenging societal expectations. She encourages individuals to define their own identities and celebrate single-hood. Overall, the conversation explores the complexities of modern dating and the impact it has on individuals' mental health and self-worth.

Shani Silver is an author and podcaster originally from Fort Worth, Texas. Her name is pronounced like “rainy” with a “sh.” Her book, A Single Revolution: Don't look for a match—light one, helps singles reframe singlehood to see its value and validity, for as long as we happen to be single. She is not an advocate for singlehood, she's an advocate for people being happy while single, and there is a difference. Her podcast, A Single Serving Podcast, launched in April of 2019 in the hopes of giving single women content that—for once—didn’t revolve around dating, and to support singles around the world in shedding the societal shame of singlehood. Shani has lived and dated in Austin, TX, Los Angeles, CA, Chicago, IL, Philadelphia, PA, and Brooklyn, NY. She currently lives in New Orleans. Following ten years of use, Shani permanently deleted her dating apps in January of 2019. She has loved her life ever since.

Topics discussed in this episode of A Fresh Story with Shani Silver:

• Dating apps prioritize profit over helping users find love.
• Singlehood should be reframed to focus on happiness and personal growth.
• Societal expectations and stigmas around relationships can be harmful.
• The lawsuit against Match Group highlights the addictive nature of dating apps. Dating apps can have addictive behaviors and may not deliver on what people are seeking.
• The pressure to find a romantic partner can lead to settling and compromising one's values.
• Dating apps lack safety measures and can expose users to abusive or predatory behavior.
• Living authentically and focusing on personal fulfillment is more important than conforming to societal expectations.
• It is crucial to challenge the commercialization of love and celebrate singlehood as a valid and fulfilling lifestyle.