Brianna LaPaglia shares fresh take on love after past heartbreak

Brianna LaPaglia opened a new chapter in her love life. The influencer and content creator revealed on her latest episode of the Plan Bri Uncut podcast that her current relationship feels like her first “real try” at dating after a string of challenging past romances.

LaPaglia, 28, affectionately refers to her new partner as “Meatball Man” online, a playful nickname that originated after she once canceled a date with him due to food poisoning from eating meatballs.

“This is the longest I think I’ve talked to a guy since… ever,” LaPaglia said on the podcast, smiling as she reflected on the early days of the relationship.

The influencer candidly discussed her previous hesitancy toward dating, explaining that she had once believed she “was never going to be in a relationship again.” 

Over the past year, she admitted, she often turned potential romantic interests into friendships because she felt incapable of love.

Speaking specifically about “Meatball Man,” LaPaglia called the relationship her “first real try at, like, giving dating a shot.” 

She noted that this is the first time she has gone on more than two dates with someone in the last year and emphasized that she is fully invested—answering texts, taking calls, and making time to see him.

LaPaglia’s reflections come after her highly public breakup with country star Zach Bryan in October 2024. The pair had dated from July 2023 until their split. 

Following the breakup, LaPaglia accused Bryan of emotional abuse and alleged he offered her $12 million and a house to stay silent about their relationship. Bryan has not publicly commented on the allegations.

The influencer also addressed how she plans to share her romance online. “Over my f---ing dead body I will not post a person until I’m married,” she said. “I never want to share an inkling of a relationship again, which I think makes sense.”

Despite lingering doubts, LaPaglia said she is proud of herself for opening up to love again. 

“Who knows, guys? Maybe this will blossom into something. And if it doesn’t, I’m very proud of myself for trying,” she said. 

She encouraged others who have endured toxic or abusive relationships to stay hopeful: “It took me almost as long as that bad relationship was to be able to find myself again. Don’t get discouraged.”