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Hiatus Week 2: 

Cultivating a Healthy Relationship with Self – Playlist on Self-Awareness and Self-Understanding

 
Sponsor for this episode: Poly Healing Retreat with Dedeker Winston and Orit Krug~APPLY HERE

Even while I'm taking some time off, I want to continue showing up for you and pursuing my passion, which is to help people break free from societal norms and rethink everything they know about relationships. I truly believe there's a new paradigm for relationships being birthed, one grounded in the concept and foundations of relationship diversity.

So, to keep the conversations alive, I've taken a look back at my two years of episodes and noticed some exciting themes emerging. Each week, during my hiatus, I'll post a specially curated playlist of episodes centered on a specific topic. Then you'll find links to those episodes in the show notes to help you dive deeper into areas that might resonate with where you are in your journey.

Let's continue exploring, growing, and embracing the expansiveness of relationship diversity together. 

In the second week of hiatus, I share a curated playlist focused on the theme of 'relationship with self.' Emphasizing the importance of cultivating a healthy self-relationship, the playlist includes episodes discussing self-awareness, self-acceptance, and the balance between selfishness and selflessness. 

Episodes mentioned:

Episode 5: Your #1 Relationship ~ Relationship with Self

Episode 6: How Do I Get to Know Myself

Episode 14: Is It Selfish to Love Yourself

Episode 118: Let’s Be Real with Our Relationship Experiences – Wisdom from Evita LaVitaloca Sawyers

This is Relationships Reimagined.

Join the conversation as we dive into a new paradigm of conscious, intentional and diverse relationships.

 ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️

Get Your Free Relationship Diversity Guide

Connect with me:
 YouTube

Instagram

Website

Get my book, “Why Do They Always Break Up with Me? The Ultimate Guide to Overcome Heartbreak for Good

Podcast Music by Zachariah Hickman

Support the show

Please note: I am not a doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist, therapist, counselor, or social worker. I am not attempting to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any physical, mental, or emotional issue, disease, or condition. The information provided in or through my podcast is not intended to be a substitute for the professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by your own Medical Provider or Mental Health Provider. Always seek the advice of your own Medical Provider and/or Mental Health Provider regarding any questions or concerns you have about your specific circumstance.

Send us a text

Hiatus Week 1: 

Exploring Relationship Diversity – Playlist on Relationship Models, Breaking Societal Norms, and Novogamy

Even while I'm taking some time off, I wanted to continue showing up for you and pursuing my passion, which is to help people break free from societal norms and rethink everything they know about relationships. I truly believe there's a new paradigm for relationships being birthed, one grounded in the concept and foundations of relationship diversity.

So, to keep the conversations alive, I've taken a look back at my two years of episodes and noticed some exciting themes emerging. Each week, during my hiatus, I'll post a specially curated playlist of episodes centered on a specific topic. Then you'll find links to those episodes in the show notes to help you dive deeper into areas that might resonate with where you are in your journey.

Let's continue exploring, growing, and embracing the expansiveness of relationship diversity together. 

In this first week of hiatus, I curate a playlist focused on the foundations and exploration of relationship diversity. The playlist features standout episodes covering topics such as definitions of relationship diversity, various relationship structures, the concept of novogamy, and the importance of embracing unique relationship models. Highlights include discussions on societal norms, wounded vs. healed expressions in relationships, and deep dives with experts like Dr. Jorge Ferrer. 

Episodes mentioned:

Episode 1 What is Relationship Diversity?  Could It Really Be the Answer To Fulfilling Intimate Relationships? 

Episode 2 Exploring Diverse Relationship Structures

Episode 3 Wounded Vs. Healed Expression in Diverse Relationships 

Episode 34 What Determines If a Relationship Is a Success?

Episode 59 Transcending Monogamy and Polyamory: A Deep Dive into Relational Freedom with Dr. Jorge Ferrer  

Episode 120: Living More Consciously and Wisely in Your Relationships with Waking Youth’s Carlota Guedes

Episode 74 A PSA: You Are Unique! Why Are You Trying to Fit Your Relationship Into a Box?

Episode 109 The Mono/Poly Relationship: Challenges and Solutions with Dr. Elisabeth Sheff

This is Relationships Reimagined.

Join the conversation as we dive into a new paradigm of conscious, intentional and diverse relationships.

 ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️

Get Your Free Relationship Diversity Guide

Podcast Music by

Support the show

Please note: I am not a doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist, therapist, counselor, or social worker. I am not attempting to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any physical, mental, or emotional issue, disease, or condition. The information provided in or through my podcast is not intended to be a substitute for the professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by your own Medical Provider or Mental Health Provider. Always seek the advice of your own Medical Provider and/or Mental Health Provider regarding any questions or concerns you have about your specific circumstance.

Send us a text

Episode 125:
Looking Back and Ahead: The Journey and Future of The Relationship Diversity Podcast

In this episode, I reflect on the past year, expressing gratitude for you and recounting memorable episodes from July 2024 to the end of the year. I highlight key conversations with the amazing guests I’ve had on since July and explore topics such as healing sexless relationships, decolonizing relationships, the role of fear in personal growth, and exploring non-monogamy. I also announce my upcoming hiatus in early 2025, during which I will focus on personal growth and self-care. I still plan to release curated playlists of past episodes centered around specific themes to keep the conversation going for her audience.

Subscribe to stay connected!

Listen to other End-of-year and Mid-Year recaps to find the topic you need right now!

Year End Review 2022
Mid-Year Review 2023
Year End Review 2023
Mid-Year Review 2024

00:00 Reflecting on the Year and Expressing Gratitude

00:34 Introduction to the Relationship Diversity Podcast

01:25 Year in Review: Highs, Lows, and Personal Growth

02:57 Announcing a Hiatus and Future Plans

05:07 Episode Recaps: Healing and Intimacy

06:36 Episode Recaps: Non-Monogamy and Polyamory

10:24 Episode Recaps: Self-Care and Relationship Diversity

13:38 Episode Recaps: Political and Cultural Perspectives

16:16 Episode Recaps: Personal Growth and Healing

24:03 Concluding Thoughts and Future Engagement

This is Relationships Reimagined.

Join the conversation as we dive into a new paradigm of conscious, intentional and diverse relationships.

 ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️

Get Your Free Relationship Diversity Guide

Connect with me:
YouTube

Instagram

Website

Get my book, “Why Do They Always Break Up with Me? The Ultimate Guide to Overcome Heartbreak for Good

Podcast Music by Zachariah Hickman

Support the show

Please note: I am not a doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist, therapist, counselor, or social worker. I am not attempting to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any physical, mental, or emotional issue, disease, or condition. The information provided in or through my podcast is not intended to be a substitute for the professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by your own Medical Provider or Mental Health Provider. Always seek the advice of your own Medical Provider and/or Mental Health Provider regarding any questions or concerns you have about your specific circumstance.

Send us a text

Episode 124:
Feeling Overwhelmed by Kink Exploration? Welcome to Kinkyville is Here to Guide You with Creator Emily Blake

In this episode I have a conversation with Emily Blake, creator of the animated series 'Welcome to Kinkyville.' We discuss Emily's cautious exploration of kink and BDSM, her journey of healing from past trauma, and the importance of releasing sexual shame. Emily shares her insights into starting with kink safely, the creation of her animated series, and how open communication and education can lead to healthier, more fulfilling relationships. 

The episode emphasizes the significance of normalizing conversations about sexual desires and the transformative potential of kink in overcoming personal obstacles.

Watch the Pilot:
YouTube | Website

Connect with Emily:
Blue Sky

01:41 Meet Emily Blake: A Journey into Kink and BDSM

04:27 Emily's Personal Exploration and Healing through Kink

05:46 Navigating Kink: Safety, Education, and Misconceptions

11:11 Releasing Sexual Shame and Embracing Desires

15:26 Practical Tips for Exploring Kink Safely

20:30 Dreaming of a World Without Shame

21:36 Introducing 'Welcome to Kinkyville'

22:03 The Journey of Creating 'Welcome to Kinkyville'

24:37 Challenges and Changes During Production

28:26 The Future of 'Welcome to Kinkyville'

31:09 Envisioning a World with Less Sexual Shame

34:06 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

This is Relationships Reimagined.

Join the conversation as we dive into a new paradigm of conscious, intentional and diverse relationships.

 ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️

Get Your Free Relationship Diversity Guide

Connect with me:
YouTube

Instagram

Website

Get my book, “Why Do They Always Break Up with Me? The Ultimate Guide to Overcome Heartbreak for Good

Podcast Music by Zachariah Hickman

Support the show

Please note: I am not a doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist, therapist, counselor, or social worker. I am not attempting to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any physical, mental, or emotional issue, disease, or condition. The information provided in or through my podcast is not intended to be a substitute for the professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by your own Medical Provider or Mental Health Provider. Always seek the advice of your own Medical Provider and/or Mental Health Provider regarding any questions or concerns you have about your specific circumstance.

Send us a text

Episode 123: 

Healing Power Dynamics, Overcoming Judgments and Building Authentic Relationships

Winter is approaching in my corner of the world. Winter always has me slowing down and going into deep introspection.

In this episode, I explore what’s most on my mind. This includes the themes of enemy perception, power dynamics, agendas in relationships, judgments, and the quest for community. Reflecting on my own experiences and observations, I discuss how societal and personal behaviors contribute to division and explores ways to foster connection, mutual empowerment, and authenticity in relationships. 

00:00 Introduction: The Concept of an Enemy

00:56 Exploring Relationship Diversity

01:46 Personal Journey: Choosing Warmth Over Cold

03:06 Winter Introspection and Healing

05:59 Power Dynamics in Relationships

09:34 Understanding Agendas

12:18 Reflecting on Judgments

16:22 Transforming the Concept of an Enemy

18:50 The Importance of Community

20:13 Conclusion and How to Send Me Your Thoughts

This is Relationships Reimagined.

Join the conversation as we dive into a new paradigm of conscious, intentional and diverse relationships.

 ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️

Get Your Free Relationship Diversity Guide

Connect with me:
YouTube

Instagram

Website

Get my book, “Why Do They Always Break Up with Me? The Ultimate Guide to Overcome Heartbreak for Good

Podcast Music by Zachariah Hickman

Support the show

Please note: I am not a doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist, therapist, counselor, or social worker. I am not attempting to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any physical, mental, or emotional issue, disease, or condition. The information provided in or through my podcast is not intended to be a substitute for the professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by your own Medical Provider or Mental Health Provider. Always seek the advice of your own Medical Provider and/or Mental Health Provider regarding any questions or concerns you have about your specific circumstance.

Send us a text

Episode 122:
What Monogamous Couples Can Learn from Swingers to Transform Love and Intimacy with Lauren Hayes

In this episode, I interview lifestyle coach Lauren Hayes about her new book on the swinging lifestyle and what monogamous individuals can learn from non-monogamous relationships. Lauren shares her journey into the swinging lifestyle with her husband, the challenges they faced, and lessons they learned—ranging from the importance of self-expression and emotional sovereignty to the significance of loving oneself more than one's partner. The conversation highlights how these lessons can be universally applied to enhance all types of relationships, emphasizing that non-monogamous relationships require a high level of self-awareness, communication, and commitment.

Connect with Lauren:
Website | Work with Lauren

Get Lauren's Book: For Better or Even Better: 7 Lessons on Love & Life from a Non-Monogamist 

00:00 Introduction to Swinging and Self-Expression

01:41 Introducing Lauren Hayes and Her Journey

04:13 Lauren's Personal Experience with Swinging

09:56 Defining Swinging and Its Misconceptions

18:56 Exploring the Lessons from Non-Monogamy

28:19 Emotional Sovereignty: Owning Your Reactions

29:11 Loving Yourself More in Relationships

29:51 Conscious People Pleasing: A New Perspective

31:53 Self-Expression and Finding Your Voice

35:42 The Importance of Self-Awareness

36:44 Pleasure as a Practice: Embracing Joy

37:54 Emotional Sovereignty Revisited

48:50 Navigating Conflict and Emotional Vulnerability

50:02 Conclusion and Resources

This is Relationships Reimagined.

Join the conversation as we dive into a new paradigm of conscious, intentional and diverse relationships.

 ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️

Get Your Free Relationship Diversity Guide

Connect with me:
YouTube

Instagram

Website

Get my book, “Why Do They Always Break Up with Me? The Ultimate Guide to Overcome Heartbreak for Good

Podcast Music by Zachariah Hickman

Support the show

Please note: I am not a doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist, therapist, counselor, or social worker. I am not attempting to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any physical, mental, or emotional issue, disease, or condition. The information provided in or through my podcast is not intended to be a substitute for the professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by your own Medical Provider or Mental Health Provider. Always seek the advice of your own Medical Provider and/or Mental Health Provider regarding any questions or concerns you have about your specific circumstance.

Send us a text

Episode 121: 
Break Free from Relationship Patterns: Tools for Deep Healing and Lasting Growth

In this episode, I dive into how resurfacing patterns in relationships are opportunities for growth and healing. 

I share my personal experiences and introduce a four-step process to break free from autopilot reactions: pausing to notice, separating the past from the present, getting curious, and making conscious choices. 

With practical advice and self-reflection tools, I guide listeners to navigate challenges, enhance self-awareness, and deepen their relationships. 

Join me as I explore how to shift from repetitive cycles to empowerment and fulfillment.

00:00 Introduction to Relationship Diversity

01:13 Personal Reflections and Challenges

03:03 Understanding and Breaking Patterns

06:25 The Four-Step Process for Change

08:06 Step One: Pause and Notice

11:05 Step Two: Separate Past from Present

14:54 Step Three: Get Curious

16:37 Step Four: Make a Conscious Choice

18:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

19:34 Podcast Outro and Additional Resources

This is Relationships Reimagined.

Join the conversation as we dive into a new paradigm of conscious, intentional and diverse relationships.

 ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️

Get Your Free Relationship Diversity Guide

Connect with me:
YouTube

Instagram

Website

Get my book, “Why Do They Always Break Up with Me? The Ultimate Guide to Overcome Heartbreak for Good

Podcast Music by Zachariah Hickman

Support the show

Please note: I am not a doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist, therapist, counselor, or social worker. I am not attempting to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any physical, mental, or emotional issue, disease, or condition. The information provided in or through my podcast is not intended to be a substitute for the professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by your own Medical Provider or Mental Health Provider. Always seek the advice of your own Medical Provider and/or Mental Health Provider regarding any questions or concerns you have about your specific circumstance.

Send us a text

Episode 120:
Living More Consciously and Wisely in Your Relationships with Waking Youth’s Carlota Guedes

In this episode I welcome Carlota Guedes, an author and podcaster from Portugal, to discuss the concept of Novogamy—a new paradigm of relationships that encompasses intentionality and constant communication. The conversation covers Carlota's personal journey from a conventional monogamous background to exploring diverse relationship structures, influenced by questioning societal norms and personal experiences. Carlota shares insights from her podcast, Waking Youth, which delves into living more wisely into maturity, and discusses her upcoming novel about novogamy. The episode underscores the importance of questioning societal scripts, labeling identity, and intentional living.

00:00 Introduction to Novogamy

01:55 Introducing Carlota Guedes

03:18 Carlota's Journey and Insights

04:09 Exploring Relationship Diversity

06:40 The Concept of Novogamy

08:32 Personal Experiences and Reflections

14:26 The Importance of Labels and Terms

31:34 Living into Maturity More Wisely

46:02 Conclusion and Future of Relationships

Connect with Carlota:

Website | Podcast | Instagram

Episode 59: Transcending Monogamy and Polyamory: A Deep Dive into Relational Freedom with Dr. Jorge Ferrer

Jorge’s Book: Love and Freedom

This is Relationships Reimagined.

Join the conversation as we dive into a new paradigm of conscious, intentional and diverse relationships.

 ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️

Get Your Free Relationship Diversity Guide

Connect with me:
YouTube

Instagram

Website

Get my book, “Why Do They Always Break Up with Me? The Ultimate Guide to Overcome Heartbreak for Good

Podcast Music by Zachariah Hickman

Support the show

Please note: I am not a doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist, therapist, counselor, or social worker. I am not attempting to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any physical, mental, or emotional issue, disease, or condition. The information provided in or through my podcast is not intended to be a substitute for the professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by your own Medical Provider or Mental Health Provider. Always seek the advice of your own Medical Provider and/or Mental Health Provider regarding any questions or concerns you have about your specific circumstance.

Send us a text

Episode 119
Healing Sexual Shame to Transform Relationships with Flo Oliveira

In this episode, I speak with sex educator, therapist, and relationship coach Flo Oliveira about the impact of sexual shame on relationships. 

We discuss the origins and effects of sexual shame, the journey of healing, and the potential of BDSM and kink as tools for healing. Flo shares their personal story and professional insights, highlighting the importance of safety, vulnerability, and unlearning societal norms to achieve sexual liberation and deeper connection in relationships.

Connect with Flo:

Instagram | Website | Linktree

Come As You Are by Emily Nagoski

Playing Well With Others by Lee Harrington

00:00 Understanding Sexual Shame in Relationships

02:17 Meet Flo Oliveira: A Journey into Sex Therapy

03:34 The Impact of Sexual Shame on Relationships

04:17 Flo's Personal Journey and Insights

07:00 Reprogramming Beliefs About Sex and Pleasure

09:52 Exploring Sexual Shame and Healing

25:38 The Role of BDSM and Kink in Healing

38:51 Final Thoughts and Resources

This is Relationships Reimagined.

Join us as we explore a new paradigm of conscious, intentional and diverse relationships.

 ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️

Get Your Free Relationship Diversity Guide

Connect with me:
YouTube

Instagram

Website

Get my book, “Why Do They Always Break Up with Me? The Ultimate Guide to Overcome Heartbreak for Good

Podcast Music by

Support the show

Please note: I am not a doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist, therapist, counselor, or social worker. I am not attempting to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any physical, mental, or emotional issue, disease, or condition. The information provided in or through my podcast is not intended to be a substitute for the professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by your own Medical Provider or Mental Health Provider. Always seek the advice of your own Medical Provider and/or Mental Health Provider regarding any questions or concerns you have about your specific circumstance.

Send us a text

Episode 118:

Let’s Be Real with Our Relationship Experiences: Wisdom from Evita Lavitaloca Sawyers

In this episode, I have a rich discussion with Evita Sawyers, a black, queer, non-monogamous educator, speaker, coach, and author. The conversation sheds light on the importance of emotions and personal growth within diverse relationship structures. 

Evita shares her evolution from monogamy to non-monogamy, including her initial challenges and experiences with swinging and polyamory. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of flexibility, self-reflection, and emotional honesty in navigating non-monogamous relationships. 

Evita highlights her book 'A Polyamory Devotional: 365 Daily Reflections for the Consensually Non-Monogamous,' offering daily reflections for any relationship type. The episode advocates for positive thinking, managing emotional energy, and inclusivity in relationships, encouraging listeners to explore their authentic choices without societal judgment. Practical insights into avoiding catastrophizing, the practice of self-compassion, and conscious connection over fear are also discussed. 

Run, don’t walk to get Evita’s book!

A Polyamory Devotional: 365 Daily Reflections for the Consensually Non-Monogamous

Connect with Evita:

Instagram

00:00 Embracing Our Emotions

00:49 Introduction to the Podcast

01:51 Guest Introduction: Evita Sawyers

02:28 Evita's Journey into Non-Monogamy

05:13 Navigating Non-Monogamous Relationships

09:20 Challenges and Realities of Polyamory

12:07 Evita's Polyamory Devotional

27:07 Reflections on Love and Courage

30:24 Overcoming Disconnection in Relationships

32:43 Embracing and Feeling Uncomfortable Emotions

40:35 Managing Anxiety and Catastrophic Thinking

52:03 Vision for the Future of Diverse Relationships

55:14 Conclusion and Ways to Connect

This is Relationships Reimagined.

Join the conversation as we dive into a new paradigm of conscious, intentional and diverse relationships.

 ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️

Get Your Free Relationship Diversity Guide

Connect with me:
YouTube

Instagram

Website

Get my book, “Why Do They Always Break Up with Me? The Ultimate Guide to Overcome Heartbreak for Good

Podcast Music by Zachariah Hickman

Support the show

Please note: I am not a doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist, therapist, counselor, or social worker. I am not attempting to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any physical, mental, or emotional issue, disease, or condition. The information provided in or through my podcast is not intended to be a substitute for the professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by your own Medical Provider or Mental Health Provider. Always seek the advice of your own Medical Provider and/or Mental Health Provider regarding any questions or concerns you have about your specific circumstance.