Shows
First Dates & Soulmates93 | Morning Glory Milking Farm: Yes It’s About Milking, No That’s Not the PointThis week, Nikki and Meg finally dive into Morning Glory Milking Farm: the monster romance that launched a thousand awkward recommendations and at least one “wait… is this actually good?” group chat spiral.We talk:* Monster anatomy (briefly), consent (extensively), capitalism (of course), and why this book works far better than it has any right to. * From Minotaur milking logistics to Violet’s deeply relatable millennial “I just need a job that pays rent” energy* Monster romance as labor commentary (yes, really)Plus: capitalism discourse, bodily autonomy, and why Minotaurs mi...
2026-02-1151 min
First Dates & Soulmates92 | Bridgerton Season 4 Part 1: Mistresses, Masquerades, and Maid WarsThe first four episodes of Bridgerton Season 4 are here and they might be the strongest opening since Season 1. SO MANY SPOILERS. Nikki and Meg break down:* Benedict Bridgerton as a flawed hero (and why the internet needs to relax)* Upstairs vs. downstairs storytelling (maids, money, power, respect)* The Lady Whistledown problem now that everyone knows who she is* Violet Bridgerton’s late-in-life desire arc (icon behaviour)* Lady Danbury, the Queen, and choosing your own damn shoesAnd be sure to come ba...
2026-02-041h 27
First Dates & Soulmates90 | The Second Annual Tingly Awards: Our 2025 best romance novel recommendationsIt’s awards season, romance-style. Nikki and Meg are back with the second annual Tingly Awards, where spreadsheets fear us and yearning reigns supreme.This episode is a full retrospective of everything that gave us tingles in 2025: books, series, tropes, authors, movies, TV, rereads, rabbit holes, and the unhinged emotional damage we willingly signed up for. Once you do something twice, it’s a tradition. Science.In This Episode:* Rereads, first-time reads, and “how did I end up here?” rabbit holes* Why emotional devastation is sometimes the goal* Romance as escap...
2026-01-2148 min
First Dates & Soulmates89 | People We Meet on Vacation: Great Chemistry, Questionable ChoicesThis week, Meg & Nikki are unpacking the latest Netflix romcom: Emily Henry’s People We Meet on Vacation. In this episode, they dig into:* Why this story feels like the romance version of a beef trifle: enjoyable, chaotic, structurally confusing* Friends-to-lovers, long-term pining, and the danger of resetting the conflict instead of escalating it* The When Harry Met Sally comparisons and differences in payoff * The travel fantasy: gorgeous locations, fun moments, and being the best version of YOU while away from home They also talk adaptation choices, mi...
2026-01-1459 min
First Dates & Soulmates88 | Heated Rivalry's "I'll Believe In Anything" and "The Cottage"Episodes 5 and 6 of Heated Rivalry deliver what can only be described as a masterclass in slow-burn payoff. We get hugs and cuddles, hard truths, loopy Shane declarations, the iconic cottage invitation, and finally (finally!!) two men who sit down and use their words like adults (growth!).In this third Heated Rivalry episode, Meg & Nikki are once again joined by Andréa Jones to break down:* Why Episodes 5 & 6 fully deserve being some of the highest rated TV episodes EVER * The injury → hospital → cottage pipeline and what finally changes between Shane and Ilya* That...
2026-01-071h 50
First Dates & Soulmates87 | Holiday Touchdown: A Hallmark Buffalo Bills Love Story [with Sara Frandina]What happens when the NFL decides it wants Hallmark’s audience and Hallmark decides it wants football money? You get Holiday Touchdown: A Bills Love Story, a G-rated Christmas movie stuffed with snow, Bills Mafia, stadium lore, and enough exposition to qualify as cardio.Nikki and Meg are joined by Buffalo native and Bills superfan Sara Frandina to break down Hallmark’s second NFL crossover, unpack why Buffalo was the obvious choice, and ask the real questions.Like:* Why is this doctor never at work?* Why does every mystery require a rece...
2025-12-311h 07
First Dates & Soulmates86 | Romantic Holiday Microtropes: Gingerbread Disasters & Other Seasonal Love LanguagesIt’s Christmas Eve, which means one thing in the FDSM universe: extremely specific holiday tropes, deeply unserious games, and a shocking number of dead bodies lurking just offstage.This week, Meg and Nikki dig into the microtropes that make holiday romances and Hallmark movies so bingeable. Then Meg unleashes not one but two games, including a rapid-fire “Love or Murder?” guessing round and a full-on fantasy-draft-style build-your-own holiday romance. Yes, ornaments have traumatic backstories. Yes, someone gets stranded on a bridge. Yes, we absolutely turn the romances into cozy murders at the...
2025-12-2443 min
First Dates & Soulmates85 | Small Town Romance and Big Feelings with Norah PritchardThis week, Meg and Nikki head back to small-town romance heaven with Norah Pritchard, author of “If You Were Mine”, the winter installment of her Northfield series. Think runaway bride, grumpy sheriff, snowed-in forced proximity, meddling aunts, and a Christmas tree lot that absolutely understands the assignment.They talk:* Grumpy/sunshine as an emotional ignition device* Forced proximity, snowstorms, and why winter beats hurricanes every time* Alpha heroes, protective instincts, and the fine art of emotional repression* Why tropes are not the enemy and why leaning into them works
2025-12-1757 min
First Dates & Soulmates84 | Heated Rivalry's "Hunter" & "Rose" [Bonus Episode with Andrea Jones]This bonus episode exists because the fandom demanded it. And because Episodes 3 and 4 of Heated Rivalry emotionally drop-kicked us into the boards.Nikki, Meg, and Andrea are back to break down the tonal shift of Episode 3 (Hunter), the rise of Scott “Softest Boy Alive” Hunter, then spiral into Episode 4 (Rose), where the tuna melt scene detonates the emotional core of the show. First names are said. Panic ensues. Everyone suffers.Tune in for:* The difference between “can’t come out” and “won’t communicate”* Why the women of this series are the best people...
2025-12-151h 16
First Dates & Soulmates83 | Making Spirits Bright: Bailey Seaborn’s New Holiday NovellaIn this holly-jolly chaos-fest, Nikki once again interviews Meg’s romance writer persona Bailey Seaborn to break down Making Spirits Bright, the 2.5 novella in the All or Nothing universe. Expect:* FULL SPOILERS from not only this novella, but also Peppermint Bark, All Twerk No Play, and early glimpses of Two Wrongs Don’t Make a Playwright* An exhausted COO with a fixer complex who desperately needs a nap* A burned-out whistleblower bartender rediscovering her confidence* A meet-cute that is 0% drunken hookup and 100% “why are you in my bed?”* Tins...
2025-12-1055 min
First Dates & Soulmates82 | Heated Rivalry: The TV MM Romance Making the Whole Internet ThirstyHeated Rivalry has arrived, and the FDSM household is officially in its Hockey Butt Era! Andrea Jones joins Nikki & Meg to dive into the first two episodes of the MM hockey romance adaptation turning the internet into a collective thirst trap.They break down:* Why the timeline jumps feel like surprise math homework* Shane’s micro-expressions, panic spirals, and inability to say “dildo”* Ilya as a consent king (and whether he gets “soft” too early)* The All-Star bench flirting, room 1221, and the pec-grab heard round the world* The accide...
2025-12-031h 05
First Dates & Soulmates81 | Pounded by Produce: A Veggie Love Tale (and Too Much Plot)Here in the FDSM universe Thanksgiving means one thing: sentient food erotica.This year, Meg drags Nikki into Pounded by Produce: A Veggie Love Tale; a story about two hot Catholic priests, one trauma-baking heroine, and a harvest moon miracle that turns everyone into fruits and vegetables. There’s theology, there’s tomato juice, and there are questions no seminary could prepare you for.We break down:* Why Pounded by Produce might actually have too much plot* How hot priests became cucumbers and tomatoes (and why they were fine with it)
2025-11-2654 min
First Dates & Soulmates80 | Psychopath Lovers & Feral Fandoms w/ Onley James & Shannon EzzellIn this unhinged crossover episode, Meg & Nikki are joined by Onley James and Shannon Ezzell, hosts of the Feral Fandoms podcast to discuss psychopaths in romance, the parasocial relationships that fuel our favourite ships, and the appeal of morally gray characters who definitely need therapy (but we’d still risk it all for).Tune in for:* Why psychopaths in romance work only when they’re written with purpose* The ethics of loving villains and the gray area between fantasy and morality* Which conversations should happen in a Waffle House parking lot at 3...
2025-11-191h 33
First Dates & Soulmates79 | Always Be My Maybe: Slow burn, old flames, and Keanu ReevesMeg and Nikki continue their Friends to Lovers deep dive with a pop culture gem, Always Be My Maybe. They unpack why this Netflix hit (starring Ali Wong and Randall Park) captures what we love most about the trope: long history, missed timing, emotional safety, and that perfect balance between comedy and yearning. Plus, a Keanu Reeves cameo that is the ultimate rom-com chaos agent. Books & Media Mentioned:* Always Be My Maybe (Netflix)* When Harry Met Sally (film)* Set It Up (film)* Brooklyn Nine-Nine (TV)...
2025-11-1257 min
First Dates & Soulmates78 | Friends to Lovers Explained: The Comfort, Chaos, and ChemistryMeg and Nikki kick off “Friendsgiving” by dissecting one of the most comforting and chaotic romance tropes of all time: Friends to Lovers. They explore:* Why it hits us right in the feelings: the safety, the yearning, the tension, the why did it take them this long?!* What makes this trope work in both books and TV (Monica and Chandler to When Harry Met Sally)* Why timing, not tension, often drives the conflict* The “best friend vs. partner” debate (and why your partner shouldn’t be your only best friend)
2025-11-051h 05
First Dates & Soulmates77 | We Took Our Own New Romance Quiz (and Immediately Started Arguing)In this flannel-wrapped fall special, Nikki and Meg celebrate cozy season with a “fun house” of games, quizzes, and chaos. Expect haunted hayrides, wraparound porches, ghost-hunting funeral directors, and the eternal sanctity of The Great British Bake Off.Want to know your romance archetype?Take our brand-new “What’s Your Romance Trope?” quiz at firstdatesandsoulmates.com/quiz! In true Cosmo girl fashion, we’ll tell you whether you’re a Fake Dating Fool, a Historical Scoundrel, a Paranormal Heartthrob, or one of our other 5 signature tropes.Your results come with a custom podcast...
2025-10-2956 min
First Dates & Soulmates76 | Scared Sexy (Kindle Exclusive novella series 6-pack)Nikki and Meg sink their teeth into Scared Sexy, Amazon’s spooky Kindle Unlimited novella six-pack featuring some of the biggest names in romance. See the whole series here (affiliate link): https://amzn.to/4ow3WqWFeatured Authors:* Ali Hazelwood (Hot for Slayer): https://amzn.to/3L1aGyH* Christina Lauren (Falling): https://amzn.to/4hkBzK5* JT Geissinger (Spicy Little Curses): https://amzn.to/4qnw3ds* Ruby Dixon (Space Vampire): https://amzn.to/4ql35en* Katee Robert (Beautiful Nightmare): https://amzn.to/48GKt2c* Ki...
2025-10-2254 min
First Dates & Soulmates75 | Monster Romance & Lily Mayne's Soul EaterThis week Nikki and Meg sink their teeth into monster romance with Lily Mayne’s Soul Eater. From morally questionable demons to why readers love inhuman partners, they break down the archetypes of monster romance and how non-human appendages make things… complicated. This is spooky-season romance at its finest: messy, dark, but surprisingly tender.This week they’re talking:* The appeal of monsters as love interests* Non-human logistics: wings, claws, and other appendages* Found family and survival in monster romance* Why readers want their monsters to be both t...
2025-10-1557 min
First Dates & Soulmates74 | Practical Magic: Curses, cardigans, and midnight margaritasNikki and Meg slip into slouchy cardigans (and maybe a little gold lamé) to dive into Practical Magic (1998) to unpack whether this is a romance, a feminist vibes movie, or just a witchy autumn aesthetic. Spoiler: it’s definitely the vibes.Tune in for:* The curse that doesn’t really matter* Sisterhood vs. romance — what the movie gets right (and wrong)* Nicole Kidman as a secret comedic genius* Midnight margaritas, lime and tequila method acting* Why this movie is peak cozy fall aestheticBooks/Media Referenced:* Pra...
2025-10-0856 min
First Dates & Soulmates73 | Love at First Bite: Vampires in RomanceOctober starts with a bite as Nikki and Meg dive fang-first into the many flavours of vampire romance. From broody immortals to leather-pants predators, they trace the evolution of the undead in pop culture and argue over who deserves to be booped on the nose.What you’ll hear:* Sparkly vampires that aged like milk (sorry, Edward)* Why Alexander Skarsgård should never own pants that aren’t leather* The four vampire archetypes: tragic baby, sexy predator, protective dad-vamp, and monster with a secret squishy center* Nikki’s theory of “boo...
2025-10-0154 min
First Dates & Soulmates72 | Elle Kennedy on Ice: "The Deal" & "Him"Back-to-School September ends on the ice with Elle Kennedy’s The Deal and Him (co-written with Sarina Bowen). Nikki and Meg dig into why these two 2015 hockey romances are still topping charts nearly a decade later, comparing fake dating vs. best-friends-to-lovers, college vs. new adult vibes, and what made both books blueprint-level sports romances.Listen in for:* Garrett Graham: the original “he falls first, he falls hardest” hero?* Why hockey housing should come with a hazmat rating* The book that made everyone fake-date a little harder* Nikki’s ringet...
2025-09-241h 00
First Dates & Soulmates71 | She’s the Man: The Best Shakespeare Rom-Com Adaptation?What happens when you take Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, add soccer, boarding school hijinks, and early-2000s Amanda Bynes? You get She’s the Man! In this episode, Nikki and Meg break down the comedy, chaos, and charm that make this rom-com still hold up nearly 20 years later (at least for Nikki!)Listen in for:* The Top 5 reasons Nikki thinks She’s the Man works as a Shakespeare retelling* Why the school setting makes the comedy sharper and the romance sweeter* Meg’s strong opinions on the vocal choices and gend...
2025-09-171h 04
First Dates & Soulmates70 | Grading Papers, Catching Feelings: Teachers in Love with M.A. Wardell In this episode, Nikki and Meg sit down with author M.A. Wardell (of the Teachers in Love series) along with guest host Andréa Jones (aka author Olivia Carter) to talk about why teacher romances never go out of style.From the messy, cozy dynamics of faculty lounges to the importance of mental health and Jewish representation in romance, Wardell shares what makes his characters so memorable. Listen in for:* Why parent / teacher romances feel fun, forbidden, and relatable* M.A. Wardell’s take on writing *real* queer characters (including how...
2025-09-101h 16
FAFO: Business Experiments for Creative Entrepreneurs2015 Me Would Hate ThisNikki looks back at 2015, when perfection was the goal and every broken link felt like failure, and contrasts it with 2025, where tolerating uncertainty is the real superpower. This episode dives into why certainty is a myth, why mistakes are data, and how following “desire paths” can make your business stronger. Tune in to learn why the hard stuff isn’t failure; it’s the job.Read the written version at theopsshop.biz/fafo
2025-09-0406 min
First Dates & Soulmates69 | Professor/Student Romance: Is This Love or Just an Inappropriate Use of Office Hours?In their 69th episode (OH 69!), Nikki and Meg tackle a trope that’s as controversial as it is compelling: professor/student romance. Once labeled a hard “no” for Nikki, this trope has crept into her “read and liked” pile in ways that can be confusing.This episode covers:* Why these stories can feel squicky, and when they work* Why POV can impact the…ROI… of the story* the difference between consensual fantasy and real-world boundaries.* When authors navigate the trope ethically—and when they just…don’tNikki’s Recomme...
2025-09-0353 min
First Dates & Soulmates68 | 1950s Rom-Coms: Royal Mischief and Repressed Sexual TensionNikki and Meg head into the 1950s for a double feature of classic romantic comedies: Roman Holiday and The Prince and the Showgirl. They discuss:* Audrey Hepburn’s strength in restraint vs. Marilyn Monroe’s comedic weaponization of sex appeal* How both films use physical space and quiet space to build (or block) intimacy and restraint* The role of glamor, class, and discomfort in shaping romantic tensionBooks & Media We Mention:* Roman Holiday (film)* The Prince and the Showgirl (film)* The Philadelphia Story
2025-08-2759 min
First Dates & Soulmates67 | It’s All Connected: Inside Eden Finley’s Shared UniverseNikki and Meg sit down with bestselling author Eden Finley to talk all things generational romance, character crossovers, and the chaos of collaborative writing. From her Fake Boyfriend series to Puckboy, Eden shares how she builds interconnected worlds where the HEAs don’t stop with one couple but they span generations.Listen in as they discuss:* Why gay hockey is such a reliable niche* Keeping track of a sprawling cast across multiple spin-offs and shared universes* Eden’s writing process (spoiler: chaos is embraced)* Tropes, tension, and the line betw...
2025-08-2051 min
First Dates & Soulmates66 | Emotionally Repressed and Ready to Cuddle: Nikki's Gay Book ClubThis week, Nikki takes over with her Gay Little Book Club, a roundup of recent M/M romance reads featuring everything from pierced men with large…attributes… to nerdy Caltech grads getting dating lessons from hot bros. In this episode:* Bull’s Boy by Kiki Clark: daddy/boy dynamics, size difference, dirty talk, and a surprising amount of genuine tenderness* The Allure of Ruins by Mary Calmes: boss/employee tension, trauma recovery, and somehow the mafia is involved!* Rocket Science by K.M. Neuhold: awkward genius meets the brother’s best friend...
2025-08-1353 min
First Dates & Soulmates64 | Fake Dating, Real Emotions: Just For The Summer by Abby JimenezMeg and Nikki tackle Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez and the book club is in session! They’re breaking down all the sandy, swoony, and slightly chaotic details of this “one summer only” love story. There’s fake dating, complicated exes, secret emotions, and exactly the kind of drama you'd expect from a romance that promises to be temporary.Listen in for:* Parental trauma, lake house love, and good dog content* Nikki’s obvious love of pre-date questionnaires* The emotional arc of Justin and Emma (and why they’re bo...
2025-07-301h 00
First Dates & Soulmates63 | Pining, Kink, and a Lot of Yelling: a game of romance "Would You Rather?"This week, Meg and Nikki play a wacky round of Romance Would You Rather, where the questions are unhinged, the stakes are fictional, and the answers reveal way too much about their taste in book boyfriends. It's trope vs. trope, kink vs. kink, and sometimes just pure chaos (would you rather walk in on a shifter in animal form… or not know your partner was a vampire until you’re mid-bite?).Listen in for:* Secret pining vs. public declarations* a great debate over mediocre or high quality stories* Our pref...
2025-07-2354 minFAFO: Business Experiments for Creative EntrepreneursStop Posting, Start GuidingAre you performing the role of “content creator” instead of actually building your business? In this episode, Nikki gets real about the difference between broadcasting and guiding, and why all that polished content might not be pulling its weight. Learn how to create Magnetic Discovery pathways that attract your most aligned, most ready buyers without relying on aesthetic noise or manifesting vibes.If your feed is full but your pipeline is not, this one’s for you.Read the written version: theopsshop.biz/fafo
2025-07-2204 min
First Dates & Soulmates62 | Only One Beach House: a Love On Vacation trope deep diveMeg and Nikki unpack the logistics (and impractical magic) of the “love on vacation” trope! From beach house hookups to European cruises , they debate whether the vacation romance can survive real life, compare road trip playlists, and revisit their favorite books and movies that deliver the hot summer goods. Listen in for:* Tropes like friends-to-lovers-on-holiday, destination wedding mix-ups, and stranded road trip partners* Nikki’s campaign against cruise ships, always* A pitch for a merch line that will definitely get banned* The emotional difference between "honeymoon with your e...
2025-07-1653 minFAFO: Business Experiments for Creative EntrepreneursJurassic Park Adults & the Power of Engineered JoyMost businesses stop at polite. But if you want loyal, long-term customers (say, 65 million years?), you need a signature spark. In this episode, Nikki shares how a ridiculous Jurassic Park-themed night out became a masterclass in creating connection, and why your onboarding should feel more like a movie premiere than a Google Doc.Listen in for 4 questions to spark momentum, deepen relationships, and turn your customer experience into something unforgettable.Read the written version: theopsshop.biz/fafo
2025-07-1005 min
First Dates & Soulmates61 | Stylishly Suited & Slightly sexist: RomComs of the 1940sIt's the episode where the suits are sharp, the heroines are divorced, and the kisses last less than three seconds! Nikki and Meg dive headfirst into the romantic comedies of the 1940s—specifically The Philadelphia Story and His Girl Friday—and come out with hot takes on censorship, fast-talking career women, and whether a second chance romance really needs to end in remarriage.Listen in for:* Why Hildy might be the blueprint for girlboss energy (and FABULOUS fashion)* Tracy Lord’s perfect hair, perfect gowns… and perfectly exhausting expectations?* The wild...
2025-07-0955 min
First Dates & Soulmates60 | Creator Burnout & Soft Doms: Olivia Carter's debut novel "Soft Launch"It’s the favorite kind of debut: when a podcast superfan becomes a published author and takes the mic! This week, we welcome Olivia Carter (aka Andréa Jones) to chat about her new romance novel Soft Launch, the first in the Zeta Love series.Nikki & Meg talk about:* Her path from reader to writer (including whispering sex scenes while holding a baby)* Navigating shame, self-doubt, and “soft launching” your author identity* Writing characters who are soft, chaotic, anxious, neurodivergent, and joyful—and not needing to be “fixed”* How being online...
2025-07-021h 05
First Dates & Soulmates59 | Slash, Fanon, & Fix-It Fics with "Dr Fandom" Katie FreundWhat if your PhD was in fanfiction? (Spoiler: our guest actually did that.) In this episode, Nikki & Meg are joined by scholar and fandom queen Dr. Katie Freund to talk about the queer roots of fandom, transformative works, and the power of rewriting stories that didn’t get it right the first time.From slash fic to spite fic, they explore how fandom creates space for identity, reclaims representation, and gives the middle finger to canon when necessary.Listen in for:* The queer-coded history of early fan communities* Why fa...
2025-06-251h 06FAFO: Business Experiments for Creative Entrepreneurs6 eras of business BS and all I got was this lousy t-shirtIn this episode of FAFO, Nikki speed-runs six gloriously cringey eras of online business from dot-com dreams to the AI hustle. Then listen as she shows you how to sift the genuine wins from the hype so your next experiment actually sticks.Listen for:• Savage nostalgia on every “work less, earn more” fad since 1999• A two-minute audit prompt to revive what works and bury what doesn’tWant the written version of FAFO in your inbox? Grab it at theopsshop.biz/fafo
2025-06-2506 min
First Dates & Soulmates58 | Butch, Femme & Found Family: Celebrating FF Love StoriesThis week, it’s all about the L in LGBTQ+. Nikki & Meg dive into the world of women-loving-women romances: the genre’s underrepresentation, share standout books they’ve read recently, and explore their own relationships to sapphic stories. Listen in for:* Why FF romance still doesn’t get the love it deserves* Stereotypes vs. archetypes and how to tell the difference* Trope differences across FF and MM romance* And what makes sapphic stories feel distinct and powerfulWith a mix of recs, reflections, and one tiny Rent rant (ju...
2025-06-1852 minFAFO: Business Experiments for Creative EntrepreneursSMART Goals are DumbSMART goals look brilliant on a colour-coded dashboard, right up until real life blows a hole through “measurable” and “achievable.” In this audio version of FAFO, Nikki confesses her own graveyard of abandoned targets and introduces the SHIFT Plan. Ready to try it? Copy your free template at theopsshop.biz/makeashiftWant the written version of FAFO in your inbox? Grab it at theopsshop.biz/fafoIf ditching goal-shame feels good, a one-sentence review keeps the momentum rolling :)
2025-06-1706 minFAFO: Business Experiments for Creative EntrepreneursWelcome to FAFOThis is your official invite to break your workflow on purpose. Nikki McKnight unpacks why “F*** Around & Find Out” isn’t a reckless chant but a repeatable strategy for building systems that grow without getting stiff. Want the companion newsletter? Head to theopshop.biz/fafo, then hit Follow so you never miss an experiment.
2025-06-1701 min
First Dates & Soulmates57 | Sweet, Spicy, and Queer: Author DJ Jamison on MM RomanceIn this author spotlight, Nikki & Meg sit down with romance writer DJ Jamison to talk about crafting queer love stories with heart, heat, and a whole lot of character growth.Listen in for:* Navigating reader expectations to balancing spice levels across her different series* What makes a series stick (and when to wrap it up)* Why she gravitates toward underdog characters who just need someone to believe in them* a discussion of her latest release, Outcast, and how approaching the Foster Bro Code series was a departure...
2025-06-1156 min
First Dates & Soulmates56 | "I'm Coming Out": Queer Awakenings in RomanceIt’s Pride Month, and Meg & Nikki are kicking things off with a reflective conversation about queer identity and coming out romance stories we love (especially the messy, nonlinear, and sometimes late-blooming kind). Listen in for:* What shaped their early understandings of sexual identity and orientation* The multiple “F’s” in a framework designed for awakening…tingles…in the groiny bits…* Their favourite queer awakening romance stories involving oblivious golden retriever types* And why bisexuality deserves better storytellingWe’re kicking off a full month of celebrating queerness in all...
2025-06-0456 min
First Dates & Soulmates55 | Rockstar Romance with Jessica TopperThis week Nikki and Meg sit down with author Jessica Topper to dive into the world of rock star romance. A librarian-turned-romance-writer, Jessica shares how her real-life concert experiences and love of music shape her stories — including her beloved Love & Steel series.They explore:* What makes musicians such compelling romantic leads* Why found family dynamics hit differently in fictional bands* The behind-the-stage drama of redemption arcs, messy characters, and their thoughts on bodyguard and manager relationshipsDon’t worry, there’s enough fictional eyeliner to last you a life...
2025-05-2853 min
First Dates & Soulmates54 | It's Our Anniversary! One Year of Romance Reads & RecsIt’s the one-year anniversary of First Dates & Soulmates — and Nikki & Meg are getting a little misty-eyed about it. In this retrospective episode, they reflect on how the podcast came to be, how their reading (and recording) habits have changed, and what surprised them most over the last 54 episodes.Listen in for:* The emotional support voice notes that started it all* The differences between reading for joy vs. reading for podcasting* Tropes they’ve come to love more (or less)* And what’s next for Year 2!It’s a mix of...
2025-05-2155 min
First Dates & Soulmates53 | All Twerk, No Play: Neighbors, Musicians & Messy HeroinesAll Twerk No Play drops May 15th! Head over to the ‘Zon and download/buy your copy ASAP. Support indie writers! https://amzn.to/3Ee2O9ZNow onto the show…In this episode, Nikki interviews co-host Meg—er, Bailey Seaborn—about her newest release “All Twerk, No Play”, the second book in the All or Nothing series and follow up to “Peppermint Bark, No Bite”. Join them as they dig into:* Why Victoria is a mess and a marvel—and why Cruz might be her emotional match* The role music played...
2025-05-141h 01
First Dates & Soulmates52 | A Beautiful Day in the Neighbourhood: Neighbours to Lovers Trope Deep DiveDon’t forget, Meg’s new book All Twerk No Play drops May 15th! So get thee to the ‘Zon and download/buy your copy ASAP. Support indie writers! https://amzn.to/3Ee2O9Z Now onto the show…This week on First Dates & Soulmates, we're cracking open the windows, cranking up the tension, and diving into one of the most underrated romance environments: neighbours to lovers.Meg and Nikki break down why this setting-based trope hits so hard, especially when your neighbor just might be your next emotional disaster or love story.Lis...
2025-05-0752 min
First Dates & Soulmates51 | Fake Dating the Hot Mess: Hothead by Stella RhysFirst off, Meg’s new book All Twerk No Play drops May 15th! So get thee to the ‘Zon and download/buy your copy ASAP. Support indie writers! https://amzn.to/3Ee2O9Z Now onto the show…This week on First Dates and Soulmates, Nikki and Meg unpack “Hothead” by Stella Rhys—a spicy sports romance that kicks off with a bar fight, a public meltdown, and a viral paparazzi photo that leads to fake dating. They talk about:* When fake dating is survival, not strategy* How power dynamics shi...
2025-04-3052 min
First Dates & Soulmates50 | Science, Sex, and Spreadsheets: The Love Hypothesis by Ali HazelwoodIn this episode of First Dates and Soulmates, Nikki and Meg dive into The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood—a fan-favorite academic rom-com that sparked an entire wave of STEM heroines. Click play on this week’s episode to hear:* Why Olive is a chronic overthinker and why Adam is a misunderstood grump (who totally has a soft side)* How this book walks the line between swoony slow-burn and sexy payoff* The balance of realistic vs. wildly fictional about academiaBooks & Media We Mention...
2025-04-2356 min
First Dates & Soulmates49 | Same Trope, Three Ways: Eden Finley's Fake Boyfriend SeriesThis week on First Dates and Soulmates, Nikki and Meg dive into the first three books in Eden Finley’s Fake Boyfriend series—Fake Out, Trick Play, and Deke. Each features the beloved fake dating trope, but through different emotional, thematic, and public/private lenses. Listen in as they break down:* What works and what stresses us the hell out * The joys of chaos gremlin side characters* The ethics of journalism in romance novels (looking at you, A Christmas Prince),* and what it means when your characters start bossing you...
2025-04-1654 min
First Dates & Soulmates47 | Where Absurd Meets Heartfelt: Why We Love The Fake Dating TropeStrap in. We’re going deep. This week on First Dates & Soulmates, it’s a trope episode! And we’re dissecting every glorious and absurd nuance of fake dating.Nikki may think this trope is the Chardonnay of romance (she’ll drink it if you serve it), while Meg is out here creating full frameworks while waiting in line at Disneyland.In This Episode:* Why so many fake dating books fall apart if the initial premise isn’t strong* Why romantic vulnerability matters more than jellybeans* The difference between fake datin...
2025-04-0253 min
First Dates & Soulmates45 | "My boring husband is a super spy!" True Lies & Mr. and Mrs. SmithHow do you fix a secret spy marriage? Blow some stuff up. This episode, Nikki and Meg discuss two classic secret identity action romance films, 1994’s True Lies & 2005’s Mr. and Mrs. Smith.Inside this episode:* Which spy couple actually had the healthier marriage?* How do you balance of action, romance, and insane sexual tension WITH GASLIGHTING?* Why do both of these movies feature the worst best friends ever (looking at you, Tom Arnold & Vince Vaughn).* Would Nikki & Meg survive if they were secretly spies? (Spoiler: one of t...
2025-03-1951 min
First Dates & Soulmates44 | “I just want to be normal!” Secret Princes & Princesses Seek LoveThis week the March theme of secret identities continues by diving into secret royalty romance: the ones where princes, princesses, and future kings just want a little taste of normalcy… until love (and a dramatic reveal) ruins their plans.Nikki & Meg are diving deep into two secret royal books: Cordina’s Crown Jewel by Nora Roberts, and Felix & The Prince by Lucy Lennox. Listen in as they discuss:* What makes the “secret royalty” trope so fun? And why is it different in MF vs. MM romance?* The pressure of public vs. private...
2025-03-1248 min
First Dates & Soulmates43 | Royalty, Spies, & Billionaires: Secret Identity RomancesHave you ever fallen for someone only to realize they’re secretly a billionaire? Or a prince? Or, oh, just a government spy with a kill count? This week, Nikki and Meg are diving deep into one of the most over-the-top, high-drama romance tropes of all time: SECRET IDENTITY ROMANCE.What’s inside this episode:* The "Love Me Despite" Factor: Why the conflict in these stories is always I want to be loved for me, not my title/wealth/dangerous profession.* The Aladdin Effect: How romance novels use this trope to expl...
2025-03-0554 min
First Dates & Soulmates41 | Regency Romance: Sarah MacLean's Nine Rules to Break When Romancing a RakeIf you’ve ever read a historical romance and thought, “I would 100% sneak into a gambling den just for the drama”, then this week’s episode is for you!This week, Nikki and Meg are diving into Nine Rules to Break When Romancing a Rake by Sarah MacLean, a book that’s all about flouting societal expectations and reforming the bad boys of the aristocracy. Inside the Episode:* Why we think regency romance is basically motorcycle club romance (but with cravats)* How historical romance tropes hit different in 2025* The public vs...
2025-02-191h 00
First Dates & Soulmates40: A Romantic Birthday MailbagIt’s Nikki & Meg’s birthday, and they’ll rant about romance tropes if they want to! Our hosts are back with a special mailbag episode, where they challenge each other with the most ridiculous, thought-provoking, and delightfully unhinged romance scenarios they could find. No prep. No planning. Just pure chaos and strong AF opinions.Check inside this birthday episode and their debates on:🎁 Grand gestures: Romantic or gross?🎁 The worst possible job for a romance protagonist🎁 The ultimate pet name cringe factor (Are we team "Babe" or "Absolutely...
2025-02-1255 min
First Dates & Soulmates39: Football Romance with Alexa MartinStrap in, romance fans, because this episode is intercepting all your expectations! We’re chatting with the MVP of football romance, Alexa Martin, about romance in the era of Taylor Swift’s NFL, the behind the scenes stories of being (and writing) football WAGS (wives and girlfriends). 🏆What’s in the playbook this week for Meg, Nikki, & Alexa?* How Vanity Fair declared Alexa the queen of football romance (and why she both cheered and cringed at the article).* Why her heroines are always hot messes (in the best way) and what makes a t...
2025-02-0558 min
First Dates & Soulmates38: An Interview with K. StirlingOn today’s episode of First Dates and Soulmates, we are welcoming author K. Stirling! Listen in as Meg, Nikki, and K talk:* how K’s writing career started as a dare* whether or not billionaires deserve romance * navigating the ever-changing social media landscape* when you’re stuck, you just need characters to fight and fornicate! About Our Guest:K. Sterling writes like a demon and is mother to Alex, Zoe, Stella, and numerous queer superheroes. She’s also a history nerd, a Lord of the Ring...
2025-01-2952 min
First Dates & Soulmates37: The Weight Of It All by NR WalkerCan you fall in love at the gym?Continuing our theme of self improvement this month, this week Meg and Nikki are talking about NR Walker’s book, The Weight Of It All. Listen in as they talk:* how to write a romance about weight loss without feeling fat phobic* the importance of the post-breakup encounter with the ex* why we want to be karaoke friends with Henry* the importance of besties who talk about p*ggingThen, join us on Substack and tell us ab...
2025-01-2256 min
First Dates & Soulmates36: Journeys of Self ImprovementContinuing our series on characters who want to improve their lives, this week we’re diving DEEP into stories that start with characters who resolve to “upgrade” their lives through love, career, health, or hobbies. Listen in as Meg & Nikki discuss:* why this trope is like self help books, but with sex* our own approach to New Year’s resolutions (or lack thereof)* those “hit by a bus” moments that can change your life* SO MANY COLOUR CODED CHECKLISTS!Then, join us on Substack and tell us about your r...
2025-01-151h 03
First Dates & Soulmates35: "Get a Life, Chloe Brown" by Talia HibbertWe are kicking off a series about main characters who seek out to improve some aspect of their lives and first up, “Get a Life, Chloe Brown” by the wonderful Talia Hibbert. Join Nikki & Meg as they discuss:* where the thing isn’t actually the thing* why we LOVE a man who goes to therapy* beautiful f***ing prose (and how it makes Meg want to quit writing)* the epic badass that is Chloe BrownThen, join us on Substack to share your thoughts and how you too ar...
2025-01-0851 min
First Dates & Soulmates34: The First Annual Tingly AwardsWelcome to 2025 and our first annual Tingly Awards!Join Nikki and Meg as they look back at the books that made them blush, tingle, squee, and smile. Then, check out https://bit.ly/fdsmbingo for a link to the official First Dates & Soulmates 2025 book bingo card. Be sure to tag us @firstdatesandsoulmates on your socials as you fill yours out. Meg’s List of Categories & Winners:Best Space Odyssey* Earth Boys are Easy by C. Rochelle* Ruby Dixon’s Risdaverse series* Good Deeds by K...
2025-01-0158 min
First Dates & Soulmates[Re-Release] Christmas in July: 30+ holiday romance novel recsHo, ho, ho, everyone. This week, because it is the holidays, and both Meg and Nikki are enjoying some well deserved time off, we come to you to the pod this week with a re-release of our Christmas in July episode.This episode was released back in July as we were gearing up for the release of Meg's debut novel, Peppermint Bark No Bite. We talked all about the different Christmas tropes and small town holiday romances that we enjoy. So enjoy this little blast from the past and we will see you in the new year.
2024-12-2555 min
First Dates & Soulmates33: NaNoWriMo Roundtable- The ResultsThe month of November has passed and it’s time for us to check in with our NaNoWriMo authors from episode 27 to see how it went!Join Nikki, Meg, Lee, and Megan as they chat about:* why November is a horrible month* the importance of creating spaces for creative work * Nikki finding out about a disney villains series* why you should always bet on come Follow the show on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/firstdatesandsoulmates/Follow the show on Ti...
2024-12-1841 min
First Dates & Soulmates32: Christmas Falls Season 2What kind of romantic shenanigans can happen in the small town of Christmas Falls? A hell of a lot, as it turns out! In this week’s episode, our hosts are talking all about the shared universe series of Christmas Falls, back for its seconds season. Join Nikki & Meg as they talk about the town of the season and:* how ugly Christmas sweaters can still be sexy * the work that goes into writing a shared universe series* why Nikki wanted to see someone get hurt (because being carried is se...
2024-12-1158 min
First Dates & Soulmates31: Meet Me Next Christmas, a holiday romcomCould it be a holiday miracle meet-cute involving the beautiful harmonies of Pentatonix? Why yes, it could! This week on the show Nikki & Meg are diving into Netflix’s latest holiday flick, Meet Me Next Christmas with Christina Milian and Devale Ellis. Listen in as they discuss:* the chemistry of the two leads and how we became Teddy superfans* the logistics of concert venues for holiday shows * our slightly cynical leanings on a certain…sparkly plot device* Nikki’s experience in filming the big ending sceneand...
2024-12-0457 min
First Dates & Soulmates30: Sex Lives of Superheroes with Diana McCallumYour friendly neighbourhood spider person with radioactive sperm, an Amazonian warrior who gets tied up, and a caped crusader who likes to fight with his female opponents - it’s time for some heroic bedroom activities!In this episode, Nikki & Meg are joined by writer & podcaster Diana McCallum to discuss her book, Sex Lives of Superheroes, and the many considerations about what it takes to date & mate a super powered human.Join their very scientific conversation about:* how to talk to your lover about your superhuman sperm, super stretchy genitals, or your many sp...
2024-11-2755 min
First Dates & Soulmates29: Back for Seconds, a hedonistic holiday taleIn this ode to American Thanksgiving, this week our hosts are diving into platters full of stuffing, phallic vegetables, and creams of all kinds. Meg & Nikki are talking about Back For Seconds, an erotic holiday novella. In this episode, they talk about:* why 2nd person POV should NEVER be used in erotica* the chore porn involved when people do housework for us * Meg’s many excellent food puns * the f***ed up pantheon of gods that must exist in this books’ world* Then head on over...
2024-11-2043 min
First Dates & Soulmates28: Romance That Makes Us HungryAre you hungry? Famished? Voracious for something…delicious?In this week’s episode, Meg & Nikki dive deep into a prix fixe framework of delicious romance novels that focus on folks in the food industry or where food plays a role in the romantic plot lines. Get your aprons handy and whisks at the ready as they talk about:* why folks who work in food service are GODS! GODS WE SAY!* the romance created by a well-constructed meal * how Nikki is the easiest sloot if you bring her food…a...
2024-11-131h 05
First Dates & Soulmates27: A NaNoWriMo Author RoundtableFor many creative folks the world over, the month of November is spent in pursuit of writing 50,000 words. Today, Meg & Nikki welcome 3 of Meg’s author & entrepreneurial friends to see how they’re approaching this month.Listen into the roundtable as they discuss:* The reason why they’re not doing the “official” NaNoWriMo challenge* Why writing succinctly is so freaking hard (we’re looking at you, Meg)* Their differing approaches to outlining and story creationA slightly sad note, during this recording session Megan Flatt’s audio decided to die so she doe...
2024-11-0649 min
First Dates & Soulmates26: Bride by Ali HazelwoodTake one strong alpha male shifter and one super smart yet culturally naive vampire, put them in an arranged marriage with a dash of political intrigue and a soupçon of sexual tension, and what do you get? Bride, by Ali Hazelwood! Join Meg & Nikki this week as they talk:* why we all KNOW what it means when you sniff a neck* the importance of secret friendship languages for surprise unveilings* the “science” of shifters changing with or without their clothes* the…physics… of interspecies tingles in the groiny bits ...
2024-10-3050 min
First Dates & Soulmates25: Spooky Teen Romance Films (Twilight & Warm Bodies)This week on the podcast Nikki & Meg are diving into YA spooky romance films Twilight and Warm Bodies! Yes, we are biting our lips, touching our cold boyfriends, and being that girl that everyone loves from the get-go!Nikki walks us through the 4 signs you’re in a spooky teen romance and:* Meg shares her trauma about watching the Twilight film for the first time* Why parents aren’t ALWAYS the bad guys in these teen scenarios* The reasons why we would all want to be the best friend character...
2024-10-2354 min
First Dates & Soulmates24: The Hidden Species series by Louisa Masters“Hellhounds declaring a glitter fight? Vampires at war with accounting? It’s another day at the Community of Species Government.”In a bit of surprise twist this week, Nikki & Meg decide to add in a completely unplanned episode! So inspired by Nikki waxing poetic about this series during our episode on Paranormal Romance (see episode #22), Meg decided to download and read The Hidden Species series in one week just so they could talk about it!Join them this week as they talk about:* Nikki’s love of demonic bureaucracy* How this...
2024-10-1654 min
First Dates & Soulmates22: Paranormal RomancesAre spooky scary skeletons sending shivers down your spine?Will dastardly demons and alpha shifters send tingles into your groiny bits?This week on the podcast, it’s Paranormal Romances!Join Meg & Nikki as they talk:🎃 the things we love that go bump in the night🎃 what type of vampire we’d be - sparkly or scary 🎃 how paranormal and fantasy are NOT the same thing🎃 S-class superpowers & the mortals they love to dateBooks & Media We MentionHeaving Bosoms...
2024-10-0258 min
First Dates & Soulmates21: Heartless by Elsie Silver | cowboy, nanny, surprise baby grumpy-sunshine romanceFor many of us, romance is an escape from our day to day lives where we can just focus on the witty repartee, brooding good looks, and all of the tingles in the groiny bits.This month, Nikki and Meg are sharing a book they somehow love yet it contains their most hated trope(s).Nowhere on Meg’s TBR list would we expect to see a grumpyXsunshine western single dad romance with a nanny AND A SURPRISE BABY. But surprise, it’s time for Meg’s pick, Heartless by Elsie Silver. In t...
2024-09-251h 00
First Dates & Soulmates20: The Best of RomanceBooks subreddit with Andréa JonesToday, we’re diving deep into the bowels of our FAVOURITE subreddit to pick out the most curious of questions, the hottest of hot takes, and share the super spicy stuff that we’ve been reading lately. We’re also joined by our podcast SuperFan (and the reason this show exists), marketing expert extraordinaire, podcaster, and all around romantic, Andréa Jones! Check out this week’s episode for:⭐ which Harry Potter fanfic pairing is our main ship⭐ the weird Anime North viewing rooms that Nikki spent her teen years in⭐ how Me...
2024-09-1859 min
First Dates & Soulmates18: Trope We Hate/Book We Love - Kissing Tolstoy by Penny ReidWe all have our favourites when it comes to tropes and storylines that we love. We also have ones that we hate with the burning fiery passion of a thousand hells. And yet somehow we can find authors or books that manage to turn our most hated narrative frameworks into something we like, and maybe even love. This month, Nikki and Meg are sharing a book they somehow love yet it contains their most hated trope(s). Starting with Nikki’s pick, Kissing Tolstoy by Penny Reid. In...
2024-09-041h 11
First Dates & Soulmates17: Sensitivity Readers 101 with Sydney FowlerIs it true that we should only write what we know?In this episode of #FirstDatesAndSoulmates, Meg & Nikki sit down with Sydney Fowler, a sensitivity reader who also worked on Meg’s debut novel Peppermint Bark, No Bite. We ask Sydney so many questions including:✏️ the role of a sensitivity reader (and what they are NOT)✏️ the importance of dialogue between author & any type of reader✏️ how Sydney helped shape Meg’s book content and storytelling ✏️ when and why an author should engage with a sensitivity readerAbout Ou...
2024-08-281h 09
First Dates & Soulmates16: Bro’s Best Friend Romances with Mikayla ChristyIs dating your brother’s best friend… taboo?How shocking!In this week’s episode of #FirstDatesAndSoulmates, Nikki and Meg are joined by guest Mikayla Christy to talk all about the trope of best friend’s brother/brother’s best friend. A favourite trope of Meg’s, we talk all about:❤️ how Mikayla DID date her brother’s best friend (and Nikki’s best friend married HER brother)❤️ the 3 “F’s” of this trope (and yes, one of them is what you’re thinking)❤️ the STRESS of secret relationships❤️ and wh...
2024-08-2159 min
First Dates & Soulmates15: Josh and Hazel's Guide to Not DatingWe all know Nikki read her first romance novel (Born in Ice by Nora Roberts) when she was around 10 years old - but what about Meg’s first romance read?! In this week’s episode, Meg and Nikki are doing a read-along of Meg’s first romance novel (that she read in 2018!!), Josh and Hazel’s Guide to Not Dating by Christina Lauren.We talk:❤️ whether your first trope is really the best trope❤️ Nikki's Korean blindness❤️ Meg's thoughts on "that girl" heroines❤️ Crazy helvetica merch ideas❤️ and why we hate surprise babiesBooks & Media We Mention In This Episode:
2024-08-1455 min
First Dates & Soulmates13: An Alien Mate for ChristmasIn this last episode of First Dates and Soulmates’ “Christmas in July” series, Meg and Nikki are doing a read-a-long of a Christmas novella, An Alien Mate for Christmas by Melody Beckett.Warning: this episode is not for the weak when it comes to graphic depictions of alien peens. If you like a good sci-fi holiday romance, this episode (and book) is for youMeg and Nikki discuss the fated mate trope, their favorite parts of the novella, their not-so-favorite parts, and more.Melody Beckett’s Website: https://www.melodybeckett.com/ Melody’s...
2024-07-3158 min
First Dates & Soulmates12: Peppermint Bark, No Bite with Author Bailey SeabornIn this week’s episode of First Dates & Soulmates, Nikki is interviewing soon-to-be-famous author, Bailey Seaborn.Bailey Seaborn (Meg Casebolt’s pen name) is the author of the romance novel you may have heard the first handful of chapters of on this podcast, Peppermint Bark, No Bite.And she’s here to answer all of your questions about herself as a romance novelist, author, and entrepreneur.She talks about:* Where the pen name Bailey Seaborn originated* How she went about plotting the novel, Peppermint Bark, No Bite* Inspir...
2024-07-241h 11
First Dates & Soulmates10: Love, Actually: Film ReviewWhen Love, Actually came out in November of 2003, so many critics hated it. Meg and Nikki are here today, continuing with Christmas in July to talk about the Love, Actually, which many people consider a Christmas movie.Although there were many iffy parts to this film, it did spark a cultural phenomenon. In this episode, Meg and Nikki discuss their favorite and least favorite romantic storylines, couples, tropes, and WTF moments from the film. Some of the couples they hate, some they love, and some are just kinda… meh. Tune in if you love romance mo...
2024-07-101h 00
First Dates & Soulmates09: Christmas in July: Holiday RomancesMeg and Nikki are kicking off the month by celebrating Christmas in July.In this week’s episode of First Dates & soulmates, Meg and Nikki talk about holiday romance novels as they discuss their favorite Christmas tropes and the ones they think lack originality. This episode is packed with lots of great holiday book recommendations, as well as holiday microtropes they LOVE, and the four ways Christmas can be built into a novel. If you’re a holiday romance lover, this episode is for you. And if you’re NOT, then this episode might just make y...
2024-07-0355 min
First Dates & Soulmates08: Bridgerton Season 3 RecapSeason 3 of Bridgerton is out and Meg and Nikki have THOUGHTS. In this week’s episode of First Dates & Soulmates, Meg and Nikki discuss their favorite moments from Season 3, as well as some of their biggest disappointments.If you’re not caught up with parts 1 and 2, beware - there ARE spoilers in this episode.You can also expect from this episode:* Meg and Nikki’s thoughts on the way the season was released; Should they have released it weekly instead?* Queer representation in the season* The most import...
2024-06-261h 00
First Dates & Soulmates07: Trope Deep Dive: Enemies to LoversIn this week’s episode of First Dates & Soulmates, Meg and Nikki are doing a deep dive of one of the most popular romance tropes, enemies to lovers. In this episode, you can expect:* What exactly IS the “enemies to lovers” trope? Including Nikki’s five different types or subcategories of the trope* The history of the trope* Class, power, and privilege within the trope* What Meg and Nikki like and dislike about the trope* Several books that feature the enemies to lovers trope (and ones that are SUPPOSED to, but...
2024-06-1950 min
First Dates & Soulmates05: Their Last Resort by R.S. GreyMeg and Nikki sure do, but in the case of Their Last Resort by R.S. Grey, they were left a little disappointed with the execution of some of these tropes. In this week's episode of First Dates & Soulmates, Meg and Nikki discuss the things they liked in this novel and the things they think could've been implemented differently. You can also expect to hear:* Is this REALLY an "enemies to lovers" novel?* The development of Paige and Cole's relationship and the pacing of the overall storyline* Perceived conflict versus actual conflict
2024-06-0545 min
First Dates & Soulmates05: Their Last Resort by R.S. GreyWho doesn't love a good enemies to lovers, forced proximity romance?! Meg and Nikki sure do, but in the case of Their Last Resort by R.S. Grey, they were left a little disappointed with the execution of some of these tropes. In this week's episode of First Dates & Soulmates, Meg and Nikki discuss the things they liked in this novel and the things they think could've been implemented differently. You can also expect to hear:Is this REALLY an "enemies to lovers" novel?The development of Paige and Cole's relationship and the pacing of the o...
2024-06-0545 min
First Dates & Soulmates04: The Bridgerton Prosaic UniverseIn this week's episode of First Dates & Soulmates, Meg and Nikki are diving into the Bridgerton universe. Written by Julia Quinn and brought to T.V. by Shonda Rhimes, The Bridgerton series is an epic Regency romance tale, set throughout eight novels. In this episode, you can expect:* Meg and Nikki's experience with Bridgerton and why they love Regency romance* How the show differs from the books, as well as what they liked and didn't like* The differentiation between the Regency time period and other historical time periods in terms of the number...
2024-05-291h 12First Dates & Soulmates04: The Bridgerton Prosaic UniverseIn this week's episode of First Dates & Soulmates, Meg and Nikki are diving into the Bridgerton universe. Written by Julia Quinn and brought to T.V. by Shonda Rhimes, The Bridgerton series is an epic Regency romance tale, set throughout eight novels. In this episode, you can expect:Meg and Nikki's experience with Bridgerton and why they love Regency romanceHow the show differs from the books, as well as what they liked and didn't likeThe differentiation between the Regency time period and other historical time periods in terms of the number of books soldWho are the readers of...
2024-05-291h 12
First Dates & Soulmates02: My First Read: Born in IceCan you remember the very first romance novel you've ever read? For Nikki, it was Born In Ice by Nora Roberts. And in this episode of First Dates & Soulmates, Meg and Nikki are going all in on their favorite tropes, the clashing of plots, some romance "no-no's", and more from Born In Ice. And don't worry - if you've never read this novel, Nikki and Meg give a very short overview of the plot before diving into the discussion.Follow the show on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/firstdatesandsoulmates/ Follow the show...
2024-05-191h 05
First Dates & Soulmates01: Why We Love Romance So Much That We Can’t Shut Up About ItIn the first official episode of First Dates & Soulmates, Meg and Nikki talk about where their love for romance and reading began and why they're making it into a passion project. You'll also hear about Meg and Nikki's favorite genres (there may be some controversy here), the genres they tend to stay away from, what you can expect to hear in episodes going forward, and, as Nikki puts it, "discussion, giggles, and what the fuckery".Follow the show on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/firstdatesandsoulmates/ Follow the show on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@firstdatesandsoulmates
2024-05-1522 min
First Dates & SoulmatesTEASER: First Dates & SoulmatesPremieres Wednesday, May 22nd, 2024. Join Meg Casebolt and Nikki Mcknight for their weekly conversations on their latest romance reads. Each week, listen in to get Meg and Nikki's takes on their favorite (and most cringey) romance stories. Plus, hear from authors and get sneak peeks of Meg's upcoming releases.Follow the show on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/firstdatesandsoulmates/ Follow the show on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@firstdatesandsoulmates View the full show notes on our Substack https://firstdatesandsoulmates.substack.com/ Pre-Order Meg’s debut novel, Peppermint Bark, No Bite (affiliate li...
2024-05-1301 min
Nikki TalksHow I Read Over 800 Books a YearToday on the Nikki Talks podcast we’re talking all about BOOKS. In 2021 I read over 850 books and I’m unpacking the how, the what, and the why. I’m answering all of your burning questions like: How do I read that fast? How do I afford that many books? What genres of books do I read the most? We get a little nerdy with some science, I rant a bit about the failings of the education system, and then I answer some audience submitted questions to give you an even closer look into my big old weird brain.A...
2022-02-231h 04Nikki TalksROI = Return On Living with Maxine CunninghamWhen we talk about “success” as it relates to start ups we often think about valuations, cash money, number of investors, but what would happen if we redefine success? What if we were to credit or reward people in different ways to motivate and inspire change? Or what if we just burned the whole system down and started from a place of curiosity and inventiveness? Join me and CEO of Pick My Brain, Maxine Cunningham, as she redefines the global economy and asks us “What is truly important?”About MaxineMaxine is an investment banker, turned e...
2022-02-1652 minNikki TalksParentpreneuring in a PandemicThey say that it can take a village to raise a kid, to have a business, to just get through life as a decent human being. But what happens when you are a business owner AND a parent AND a human? Today on the Nikki Talks podcast, I’ve brought together three entrepreneurs who are also parents, to have an honest conversation about life, parenting and business. My guests today are Eliya Finkelstein, a Funnel Strategist, Conversion Copywriter, and was once dubbed the “Fairy Godmother of Copy”, Bex McKnight, an Inclusive Design Consultant and Creative Director of McKnight Inclusive Design...
2022-02-0956 minNikki TalksBlue Whales, Skippers, and Fish, oh my! with Caryn GillenWhat comes to mind when you think about Alaska? Is it snow, 24 hours of darkness, or a movie starring Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds? Today we welcome Nikki’s friend Caryn Gillen, an Alaska native who spent her young adult life working as a commercial fisher(wo)man out in the vast ocean. Caryn shares her stories of growing up in a small town community, how she started working on a commercial boat, and her encounter with one of the largest animals in the entire world.About CarynCaryn Gillen is a master certified life co...
2022-02-0248 minNikki TalksThe Sounds of Hollywood and Home with Samara BayToday’s episode of Nikki Talks features Samara Bay, a Hollywood Dialect and vocal coach committed to helping people discover their voice, their power, and make a change in the world. The human voice is a powerful tool for expressing ourselves, we not only talk about how the voice can help a movie feel more authentic, but we talk about the human voice and how we as human beings have learned to alter our voice to express different feelings or to feel safe in certain situations.Links in this podcastDiscussing Hollywood’s accent discrimination prob...
2022-01-261h 13Nikki TalksThe Laptop Lifestyle, Done My Way with Jonathan GoodmanJonathan Goodman is the man behind the personal trainer development center and author of 11 books, but instead of talking about the fitness industry, today we’re going to talk about his nomad lifestyle. In this episode we’ll find out how he started on his digital nomad life, all the good and bad, and fun stories of lost books. We’ll talk about how his adventurous life changed when he became a father. You may want to know how in the heck he manages to run his business while living abroad, don’t worry we talk all about it! Jon also...
2022-01-1947 minNikki TalksWhy Can’t I Change? With Alicia NaserHappy New Year’s! Today on the Nikki Talks podcast we’re going to talk about new year's resolutions, why some work, why they fail, and why you may be struggling already. My first guest on the Nikki Talks podcast is Alicia Naser, she is a behaviour expert. Her insights into human behaviour will fascinate you, listen in to hear her talk about how we as humans can actually change our behaviours.About AliciaShe received her master's degree from Wayne State University in Educational Psychology, an undergraduate degree in Speech-Language Pathology, she is currently pursuing a Ph...
2022-01-1955 minNikki TalksWelcome to Nikki TalksWelcome to the premier episode of Nikki Talks!In this episode our host, who just happens to be named Nikki, talks about why she finally decided to start a podcast. So what’s this podcast all about? In one word or less, knowledge. The ability to learn new things from new people in a fun way, growing as a person and kickin’ butt at the pub on trivia night!Aaaaaaand Nikki answers her own rapid fire questions!About NikkiNikki (she/her) is the quirky purveyor of operational excellence for world chan...
2022-01-1714 min