Zach Schleien ON: Navigating the Competitive Dating App Space

The Picture of Wealth

This week, Dustin sits with Zach Schleien, CEO and co-founder of the dating app Filter Off. They discuss the app's unique approach to tackling scammers, Zach's practice of breathwork, and the challenges of online dating. Zach also shares his experience in fundraising for the app and his plans for using the funds raised. He talks about the future of online dating, the qualities he looks for in a matchmaker, and his approach to managing excess cash in his business. Zach also shares insights on the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences. About Zach Schleien: Zach Schleien is the CEO and Co-founder of Filteroff, a video speed dating app that has been recognized by The New York Times, BBC, and reached #1 on Product Hunt. He began his journey in the online dating industry by launching Top Romp, a dating publication that provided insight into dating hacks and apps for the modern dater. Later, he launched Hinge's subreddit after selling the blog. With the aim of enabling people to connect on a more profound level beyond swiping through profiles, Zach founded Filteroff. Filteroff has facilitated over 350,000 video speed dates and secured a $2.4 million investment led by Anheuser-Busch's venture arm in November 2021. Zach is passionate about technology, health, and helping people in creating genuine connections. Breathwork and Meditation (00:01:09) The Evolution of Filter Off (00:03:30) The importance of building a user base and revenue (00:10:55) Introducing matchmaking and the future of online dating (00:12:45) Dealing with scammers and catfishing in online dating (00:17:22) The importance of pillars in matchmaking (00:22:25) Reinvesting revenue for business growth (00:25:01) Multiples and valuations in the tech space (00:26:15) The evolution of friend groups (00:32:58) Choosing positive influences (00:34:12) CONNECT WITH ZACH: Filter Off Instagram TikTok