There’s a tendency to devalue first times that come as a result of the internet. There’s no meet-cutes; no love at first sight. The getting-to-know-you window happens on your device. Most of them are one-offs we will never see ever again. But, like it or not, this is the way most of us find first time partners now though there are signs that dating apps are losing users and people are starting to rely more on in-person opportunities.

The most compelling part of first time internet hookups is when we finally act on the desire that burns deep inside of us and we decide to finally follow through. Expectation collides with reality. We might meet sex partners who have the potential to excite us and fulfill all of our fantasies or they could be spectacular flame outs that send us into shame spirals. Most hookups land somewhere between these two extremes. We just never really know which it will be. Either way, they’re proof of the boundless optimism and fierce bravery of queer people.

Section 1: 1975 Newspaper Personal Ad - Mike B. (S4E10)

Section 2: Campus Intranet Bisexual Bear Chef - Stephen (S2E10)

Section 3: Chat Rooms. Hairy Gay Florida Hookup - Alex (S3E10): Fixing a Daddy’s Sound Card - Tom (S1E3); Ann Arbor Pizza Date - Nathan (S3E4); Cemetery Hookup - Shavit (S3E8); India Chats with Portland, Maine - Aditya (S2E2); Richie Makes a Housecall - Mike (S3E19); A Man in a Van - Patrick (S3E12).

Section 4: Anime Predator - Isabella (S2E9). Listener discretion advised.

Section 5: Online Personals. This is a Hand - Tai (S3E7); Cis Straight Dude Caesar Salad - Lee (S1E4); Best Western on Denny - Ryan (S1E11); A Study in Two Daddies - Gabe (S1E8).

This episode was edited and hosted by Dave Quantic, the creator of Fruitbowl.  Ryan Weadon edited the music and final mix. Thanks Ryan!

Enter code “FRUITY” when you buy tickets online for half off Northwest Film Forum’s screenings of I SAW THE TV GLOW and BORN IN FLAMES this month. And remember to reserve your free ticket for the secret pride screening Thursday June 27 at 7pm.  https://nwfilmforum.org/series/pride-month-2024/

Support independent queer media by donating to Fruitbowl and help us in our mission to record, archive and share personal stories about queer coming of age. Learn more at www.fruitbowlpodcast.com/donate. 

Tell your friends about Fruitbowl, rate us on your podcast platform or write a review on Apple Podcast. Every little bit helps. https://linktr.ee/fruitbowlpod  Fruitbowl’s fruit artwork for Season 5 was created by Nathan Richards. IG: @Paperwombat.