Episode Details

In this episode of Quiet The Clock, we're diving straight into the wild world of modern dating — and trust us, you're going to want to buckle up. Dating coach and founder of A Little Nudge, Erika Ettin, joins Beth for a refreshingly honest, laugh-out-loud, and seriously helpful conversation about what it really takes to date smarter in 2025.

Erika spills her behind-the-scenes insights from the early days of online dating (yes, the glory days of awkward bios and blurry photos), and breaks down the biggest mistakes singles make today — from self-sabotage to mixed signals to the chaotic emotional roller coaster of dating apps. Beth and Erika talk about practical coaching, and empowering mindset shifts that will make you feel more confident, more grounded, and way more hopeful about finding your person.

If you're single and feeling stuck, frustrated, or just curious about how to refresh your dating energy — This episode is equal parts relatable and eye-opening, giving you fresh ways to approach dating that feel grounded, confident, and empowering. Or if you are just looking for a reset on how you're dating, this conversation will make you feel seen, supported, and excited to get back out there.

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Erika Ettin is the Founder of A Little Nudge, a consulting company that helps people navigate the world of online dating, from first click to first date. She is also the author of the book Love at First Site.

Erika studied economics at Cornell University and received her MBA from Georgetown. She started A Little Nudge in 2011 (after a seven-year career as an economist). She is responsible for many relationships, marriages, and the confidence some people simply need to "get out there."

A Little Nudge has been featured in media around the country, including The New York Times, The Washington Post, NPR, CBS, and Ask Men, and she currently writes a weekly syndicated dating column.

IG: www.instagram.com/alittlenudge

Website: www.alittlenudge.com

We Also Talk About:

• Erika's journey to becoming a dating coach and her early experiences with online dating.

• The importance of being present in dating and relationships, contrasting male and female approaches.

• Common dating frustrations, including app fatigue and lack of attention to detail in dating profiles.

• The significance of clear communication and managing expectations in dating.

• The emotional challenges of dating, including timeline anxiety and societal pressures.

• Self-sabotage in dating and how it manifests in behaviors and thought patterns.

• The impact of language and framing on dating experiences and relationship dynamics.

• The challenges of ghosting and breadcrumbing in modern dating.

• The importance of patience, curiosity, and open communication in developing relationships.

• Practical advice for navigating dating