Erika Ettin is a top dating coach, author, and the founder of A Little Nudge, where she helps people transform their online dating experience. With a background in business analytics and years of experience fine-tuning profiles and messages, she knows exactly how to help you attract the right match.

Why work with a dating coach? Because dating is a skill—just like fitness, business, or public speaking. A coach helps you avoid common mistakes, refine your approach, and boost your confidence, making the process more enjoyable and successful. Whether you’re struggling with your profile, conversations, or first dates, Erika provides expert strategies to help you stand out and connect with the right people.

Short Summary of Key Areas Covered

In this episode, I sit down with Erika Ettin, a top dating coach and online dating expert, to break down where most men go wrong in dating, how to stand out in online dating apps, and how to approach relationships with confidence.

We discuss:
The biggest mistakes men make on dating apps (and how to fix them)
How to write a dating profile that actually gets matches
Why most men approach online dating wrong—and what to do instead
How to balance online and real-life dating
Why overthinking is killing your chances & how to embrace the ‘Dating NATO’ approach
The power of decisiveness—how to confidently ask someone out without being ‘wishy-washy’
Why women reject ‘good morning’ texts & other common red flags

If you’re tired of swiping with no results or overanalyzing every interaction, this is the episode for you.

Key Takeaways from the Interview with Erika Ettin

• Online Dating is a Skill, Not Luck – Treat your dating profile like a first impression. The right wording, photos, and approach make all the difference in attracting the right people.

  Your Profile Should Spark Conversation – Avoid generic bios. Instead of saying, “I love traveling,” try: “My favorite trip was hiking to Machu Picchu—what’s yours?” This invites engagement.

  Photos Matter More Than You Think – Your first picture should be clear, recent, and show your face. Avoid group photos, sunglasses, or mirror selfies. Quality over quantity.

  Messaging Should Be Fun, Not Formal – Open with something light and specific, like a comment on their profile. Skip the boring “Hey, how are you?”—it gets lost in the noise.

  Don’t Waste Time in the Chat Stage – The goal is to move from texting to meeting in real life quickly. A few messages to establish a vibe, then suggest a low-pressure first date.

  Confidence is the Ultimate Attractor – Whether online or in person, own who you are. Self-assured people naturally draw others in—desperation or hesitation pushes them away.

  Rejection is Not Personal – Dating is about finding the right match, not winning over everyone. A lack of chemistry is not a failure—it’s a step closer to the right person.

  Know What You Want Before You Start Dating – Be clear on your values, dealbreakers, and relationship goals. This helps you avoid wasted time with incompatible matches.

  The First Date Should Be Simple & Low-Stakes – Coffee, a walk, or a casual drink keeps things relaxed and pressure-free. No expensive dinners or over-the-top gestures too soon.

  Dating Should Be Fun! – If it feels like a chore, you’re doing it wrong. Approach dating with curiosity and playfulness—it’s about connection, not perfection.