Reality TV star turned entrepreneur Bethenny Frankel has set her sights on revolutionising what she describes as the world's most dysfunctional sector: modern dating. The founder of the Skinnygirl empire has launched The Core, an exclusive, application-only community designed to move beyond superficial swipe culture and foster genuine connections.
A Vetted Alternative to Dating Apps
Officially unveiled on December 3, The Core has already generated what Frankel calls "explosive interest." In an exclusive interview, she revealed to The Daily Mail that the platform is currently processing thousands of applications. The service has expanded rapidly since its debut, recently opening to prospective members in the Midwest and West Coast markets of the United States.
Frankel explained that a dedicated team, which includes former executives from major dating apps, handles the rigorous vetting process. She stressed that fame and fortune are not automatic tickets to entry. "Privacy is critical," Frankel stated, acknowledging interest from celebrities and prominent business figures, including one female celebrity who asked to both invest and join. However, she insisted, "Intention, integrity and transparency are critical."
Rejecting the Swipe Model and Matchmaking Quotas
The venture was born from Frankel's own frustrations with existing dating solutions. She criticised dating apps for using "bait and switch" tactics that ultimately deter participation. She was even more scathing about traditional matchmakers, accusing them of having "poor intentions," prioritising quotas and fees over client success, and using NDAs to silence dissatisfied customers.
"The longer someone stays single, the longer a dating app makes money. That's not the model here," Frankel asserted. Unlike apps that profit from user inactivity, The Core aims to create a lasting social network. Members who find a partner are encouraged to remain part of the community, attending events and enjoying other experiential benefits.
Equality, Accountability and Tiered Access
The Core operates as a vetted social co-op where all members are held to the same standards. Frankel gave examples of a male billionaire with a questionable reputation and a woman who declared "women don't pay" both being rejected. "If a woman can spend $5K on a handbag, she should want to invest that in the most important decision of her life," she remarked.
The platform offers tiered memberships:
- A premium "connection membership" starting at roughly $1,200 for those actively seeking a life partner.
- A broader community tier from $50 for attending events and making referrals.
Some individuals may join at a reduced cost or for free based on philanthropic or business contributions. All members must remain active to retain their place, a rule designed to combat ghosting and other negative behaviours common in online dating.
Success is measured not by marriages but by facilitating thoughtful dates. The platform uses post-date "accuracy ratings" to assess alignment and character. Frankel is currently self-funding the project, which employs seven people, including a COO from a major dating platform. She launched with about 150 test users and reports that meaningful connections have already been formed.
The Core enters a market where giants like Bumble and Match Group face slowing growth. While they turn to AI, Frankel is betting on human judgment and accountable community, positioning her venture as a direct challenge to a dating landscape she calls "toxic and ineffective."
