What if the relationship model you've been taught your whole life… isn't the only way to love? In this eye-opening and deeply educational episode of the Sex and Bacon podcast, Sarah sits down with sexuality educator, researcher, and author Jim Fleckenstein for a no-BS conversation about polyamory, swinging, open relationships, and the many forms of consensual non-monogamy. With over 20 years in the field, Jim shares the research, real-life experiences, and hard truths that challenge everything you think you know about love, sex, and commitment.

From breaking down the different types of non-monogamous relationships to busting seven of the biggest myths people still believe, Jim pulls back the curtain on what makes these relationships thrive—and where they fail. They explore the role of communication, boundaries, and self-awareness in creating healthy dynamics, plus why jealousy might not be the deal-breaker you think it is.

Whether you're monogamous, curious about opening your relationship, or already exploring non-monogamy, this conversation will give you the language, insights, and confidence to navigate love on your own terms—without shame.

🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways:

• The difference between swinging, polyamory, and open relationships

• Why consensual non-monogamy is more common than you think

• How society stigmatizes non-monogamy—and why that's changing

• The surprising research on relationship satisfaction in non-monogamous couples

• Understanding boundaries, agreements, and emotional safety

• Why women are often the ones initiating open relationships

• The truth about jealousy and how to manage it

• Common myths that keep people from exploring alternative relationship models

• What makes a non-monogamous relationship healthy, sustainable, and fulfilling

• How to talk to therapists, friends, and family about your relationship choices

If you've ever wondered what it's really like to live, love, and thrive outside of monogamy, hit play, this episode might just change how you see relationships forever.

#SexAndBacon #JimFleckenstein #PolyamoryExplained #NonMonogamy #OpenRelationships #SwingingLifestyle #ConsensualNonMonogamy #RelationshipMyths #EthicalNonMonogamy #RelationshipAdvice #PolyamoryTips #HealthyRelationships #SexPositive #AlternativeRelationships #LoveOnYourTerms

We get into:

• 00:00 Intro

• 02:52 Jim's Journey into Non-Monogamy

• 04:57 Research on Non-Monogamy

• 13:51 Types of Non-Monogamous Relationships

• 14:31 Swinging and Polyamory Explained

• 19:04 Open Relationships and Their Challenges

• 23:44 The Intersection of Kink and Non-Monogamy

• 25:23 Addressing Stigmas and Misconceptions

• 35:06 Seven Common Myths About Non-Monogamy

• 43:57 Debunking Relationship Duration Myths

• 44:38 Intimacy as a Measure of Relationship Health

• 46:44 Generational Shifts in Relationship Norms

• 47:14 Authenticity in Relationships

• 48:47 Non-Monogamy and Jealousy

• 52:42 Therapy vs. Coaching for Relationship Challenges

• 54:26 Nine Polyamory Myths Debunked

• 58:35 Navigating Non-Monogamous Relationships

• 01:02:49 Inclusivity in the Polyamory Community

• 01:16:47 Final Thoughts and Resources

Connect with Jim

• X: https://x.com/JimFleckenstein

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/affirmativeintimacy

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-fleckenstein-6936681/

• Website: https://www.affirmativeintimacy.com/

Connect with me

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ownyourerotic

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@sexandbacon1065

• Email us: [email protected]