A Tinder Exec and a Matchmaker Debate: “Is It Time to Break Up with Dating Apps?”

Ahead of Valentine's Day, a live Open to Debate podcast taping at the Comedy Cellar's Village Underground, February 5

Dating apps like Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge have revolutionized how people find love, but is their heyday over? Those swiping left say that despite good intentions, dating apps aren't doing enough to offer authentic connections. Those swiping right argue they're still an essential tool for meeting people, providing more options and opportunities than IRL. On Wednesday, February 5, in preparation for Valentine's Day, Open to Debate returns to the Village Underground to debate the following question: "Is It Time to Break Up with Dating Apps?" Press are invited to attend (media drinks comped).

Two dating professionals with years of experience in the matter hash it out. Arguing "YES" is Maria Avgitidis, a fourth-generation matchmaker and the CEO of Agape Match. Arguing "NO" is Melissa Hobley, Global Chief Marketing Officer at Tinder and former CMO at OkCupid.

The "Is It Time to Break Up with Dating Apps?" debate will be held on Wednesday, February 5 at 6:00 PM ET (5:30 PM doors) at The Comedy Cellar at The Village Underground (130 W 3rd St. btw 6th Avenue and MacDougal Street), then air soon after on the syndicated public radio show and podcast "Open to Debate." Journalist Nayeema Raza will serve as guest moderator. Media can email [email protected] to RSVP.

DEBATER BIOS

* Maria Avgitidis: Matchmaker and CEO at Agape Match
Maria Avgitidis is a fourth-generation matchmaker and the CEO of Agape Match, an award-winning matchmaking service based in New York City. Her first book, "Ask a Matchmaker," is set to debut in May 2025, offering readers her signature insights and strategies to transform their love lives. A trailblazer in the dating industry, Maria has met over 10,000 people and set up more than 4,000 first dates, helping singles move from dating fatigue to fun, fulfilling, and healthy relationships. Known for her sharp intuition and no-nonsense advice, her expertise has been featured in The New York Times, CBS Mornings, The Washington Post, Good Morning America, The Today Show, Esquire, Elle, and more.

* Melissa Hobley: Global Chief Marketing Officer of Tinder
Melissa Hobley is the Global Chief Marketing Officer at Tinder, where she's responsible for global brand advertising, marketing, social media, and partnerships. Melissa leads a team of marketers around the world to celebrate the stories of connection and love that happen on Tinder every day. She most recently served as CMO for OkCupid, which became known for its message of inclusion and affirmation, winning numerous awards for its breakthrough social campaign under her direction. She regularly appears as an expert on tech and relationships in media like The New York Times and NPR and is a regular guest on NBC's "Today Show" discussing relationships in a digital era. She has recently been featured on Forbes World's Most Influential CMOs, Business Insider Most Innovative CMOs, and AdAge Women to Watch, among others.

ABOUT OPEN TO DEBATE
Open to Debate addresses a fundamental problem in America: the extreme polarization of our nation and our politics. We are the nation's only nonpartisan, debate-driven media organization dedicated to bringing multiple viewpoints together for a constructive, balanced, respectful exchange of ideas. Open to Debate is a platform for intellectually curious and open-minded people to engage with others holding opposing views on complex issues. We know debate works to find common ground: On average, 32% of the Open to Debate audience changes their mind on contentious topics after hearing a debate. That's the power of debate done right, and at scale, it can change the direction we're headed in America. Open to Debate is broadcast as a weekly public radio program, carried on NPR stations including WNYC (#1 in the nation). Open to Debate is made available as a podcast, video series, and digital platform, and records episodes with live audiences nationwide. Visit opentodebate.org to become a member, access an archive of more than 220 debates, and attend live events.

Go here for photos, links and more info: https://shorefire.com/roster/open-to-debate

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For more information on Open to Debate, contact Ray Padgett ([email protected]) or Mark Satlof ([email protected]) at Shore Fire Media.

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