Today, JJ and Kait explore the rise of dating apps post-COVID and if they’re now on their way out as well as delving into the impact of Christian nationalism.
Introduction
Dating Apps Are Cooked?!
Christian Nationalism: Navigating Faith and Politics
Closing Thoughts
Hiii HOD fam, we’re back with another episode! This week’s theme combines two powerhouse discussions: the surge in dating app usage and if they’re actually on their way out and the complexities of Christian nationalism. Your hosts, JJ and Kait Tomlin, dive deep into how these topics intersect in the lives of modern Christians. Grab your favorite beverage and get comfy—this is one episode you won’t want to miss.
The Rise and Fall of Dating Apps
The era of COVID-19 saw a drastic shift in how people meet and interact, leading to a whopping 40% of couples finding love through dating apps. Compare that to just 11% a decade ago! But here's a twist—50% of singles in the US feel burnt out by these platforms. They cite superficiality, ghosting, and the overwhelming number of choices as major turn-offs. "It's a lot like shopping at Costco," JJ quips, comparing the spontaneous delight of discovering something unexpectedly awesome to the monotonous swipe culture prevalent today.
The Age Factor
Interestingly, those in the 43-58 age bracket have found surprising success in the dating app scene. According to a Forbes study, 72% of this demographic reported finding romantic relationships online. So, if you're older and wielding your smartphone to find love, keep swiping—you might just be part of that success percentage!
Men vs. Women: The Swipe Dynamics
There’s a striking difference in how men and women engage on these platforms. Men are statistically achieving more exclusive relationships from these apps (75%) than women (66%). "Women swipe right only 14% of the time!" Kait points out, highlighting how selective swiping impacts the user experience and overall satisfaction.
Generational Shifts and Declines
JJ and Kait engage in a spirited debate on whether Christian nationalism is seeing a decline. JJ suggests that the fervor may be dwindling, especially in nuanced conversations encouraged by younger church teachers. Kait remains skeptical, pointing out ongoing conversations with friends who feel it’s still very much alive. The hosts agree that, regardless of its current status, understanding Christian nationalism is key to addressing its complexities.
Christian Voting: Obligation or Opportunity?
Discussion around voting remains a hot topic, especially among Christian communities. JJ confesses past apathy towards voting but has reconsidered the role of political participation. Kait insists that while our ultimate hope is in heaven, engaging in the political sphere is still important. "Think of it as using your voice to influence the world positively," she urges. This balance of heavenly hope and earthly engagement is crucial for today's Christian voters.
Historical Context and Modern Engagement
JJ brings up the severe persecution faced by early Christians under Roman Emperor Nero, contrasting it with our modern circumstances. Despite the harrowing past, early Christians made remarkable social contributions, such as establishing orphanages and hospitals. This historical perspective serves as a reminder of the power of Christian engagement rooted in love and service.
To sum it up, whether you’re navigating the digital dating scene or pondering your political actions through the lens of faith, this episode offers profound insights and practical advice. Don’t forget to rate, review, and share the podcast to help us reach more hearts and minds.
See you next week, HOD fam! Til then, keep your hearts open and your swipes meaningful.
Kait Tomlin is a best-selling author, speaker, popular relationship coach, and the founder of Heart of Dating. She helps thousands of men and women on their journeys through the conversations on the Heart of Dating Podcast, which launched in 2018.
Through her ministry, Kait’s mission is to empower both men and women to have the courage to own their story, walk in victory, thrive with purpose, and discover clarity and vision in their life and relationships. In her new book, Thank You for Rejecting Me: Transform Pain into Purpose and Learn to Fight for Yourself, Kait vulnerably shares how she grew through her deepest, darkest rejections and offers readers the tools to heal from the past, take back their power, and walk in strength, victory, and love into their future. Kait currently lives in the Los Angeles area with her husband JJ and their pups Lovey and Teddy. She loves sunshine, walks, Jesus, and lip syncing to Celine Dion.
JJ Tomlin is a missionary kid born in Belgium, originally from Tennessee, and currently residing in the OC. He currently works in Gaming/E-Commerce, enjoys watching his Tennessee Titans on Sundays with his Goldendoodle Teddy and loves working with Christian men to raise the bar in singleness and dating.
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