Ever wondered how couples navigate long-term commitment while exploring other connections? This candid discussion explores one couple's journey into ethical non-monogamy (ENM) after 20 years of marriage. From initial hesitations to embracing polyamorous connections, they share their story of redefining relationships and challenging norms. Learn about the realities of an open relationship and the courage it takes to rewrite your own rules.

Missi and Brian’s Origin Story (00:01:44) Missi shares how she and Brian began discussing adding a third, their early thoughts, and discovering polyamory.

Lisa’s Background and Entry (00:05:13) Lisa describes her background, previous marriage, initial interest in threesomes, and how she met Missi and Brian.

Navigating International Long-Distance (00:11:22) The triad discusses managing a cross-border relationship, travel logistics, and cultural differences between Canada and the US.

Political and Social Challenges (00:15:09) Lisa shares anxieties about political climates, social judgment, and how love overcomes external pressures.

From Casual to Committed (00:16:39) Lisa and Missi discuss how the relationship evolved from casual fun to a committed, equal triad.

Disentangling Marriage for Equality (00:29:31) Missi and Lisa explain how and Brian shifted from a married couple with a girlfriend to a more equal triad.

Navigating New Relationship Energy (00:32:26) They discuss the challenges of balancing new relationship energy, dyad connections, and letting relationships develop naturally.

Staying Connected Long-Distance (00:42:00) The triad shares how they maintain connection across distance, use technology, and structure dyad time.

Advice for Aspiring Triads (00:52:28) Final advice for listeners interested in triads: patience, communication, boundaries, and seeking peace over butterflies.

Follow Brian, Lisa and Missi:

https://www.instagram.com/loveyoutwo2022/

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Psychotherapist Jason Shires shares how childhood trauma shapes adult relationships. Jason explains how internal defense mechanisms formed in childhood impact our partner choices and relationship patterns. We discuss therapeutic approaches like Internal Family Systems and somatic experiencing, the dynamics of masculine and feminine energies, and the role of addiction as escapism. We also explore how you can heal anxiety inside of relationships, offering practical insights for navigating emotional triggers with compassion. Jason shares personal insights and resources for healing, emphasizing self-acceptance, vulnerability, and the ongoing journey toward deeper connection and intimacy. This episode offers compassionate guidance for understanding and transforming relational wounds.

Episode Topic Overview (00:01:13)

Announcement of the episode’s focus: trauma’s impact on adult relationships.

Childhood Wounds and Partner Selection (00:03:13)

How childhood wounds influence partner choice and relationship experiences.

Personal Story of Childhood Trauma (00:05:13)

Jason shares his own childhood trauma and its effect on his adult relationships.

Internal Defense Mechanisms (00:08:37)

Jason explains internal defense mechanisms as intelligent responses to childhood adversity.

Parts Work and Somatic Approaches (00:12:10)

Discussion of Internal Family Systems (IFS) and somatic experiencing in healing trauma.

Impact of Trauma Work on Relationships (00:15:05)

How trauma work can transform relationships and deepen connection.

Navigating New, Healthy Relationships (00:18:06)

The challenges and risks of embracing love after trauma.

Welcoming Insecurity in Relationships (00:22:18)

Welcoming and addressing insecurity to increase intimacy and trust.

Summary and Healing Journey (00:37:14)

Recap of the journey from trauma to healing and healthy relationships.

Follow Jason:

https://www.instagram.com/infiniterecoveryproject/

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This interview surprised me. I tried to enter it with an open heart, and didn't too too much pre-research that might sway my questions or energy toward Paul.I was honestly blown away by Paul's authenticity, the data behind why people cheat, how we can be better partners to avoid cheating, and how Ashley Madison provides a discreet platform so you're not boinking your fellow office workers and ruining your family's life.In this episode of The Open Bedroom Podcast, I talk with Paul Keable, Chief Strategy Officer at Ashley Madison, about the realities of sex, dating, and non-monogamy. Paul shares research on why people seek affairs, the impact of unmet needs in relationships, and the misconceptions around open relationships. Our conversation explores communication challenges, the evolving definition of marriage, and how platforms like Ashley Madison provide discreet ways for people to connect. Paul and I discuss the importance of honesty, consent, and creating relationship agreements that work for each unique couple.Why People Cheat: Research Insights (00:02:21)Paul discusses academic research on why men and women seek affairs, focusing on unmet sexual and emotional needs.Gender Differences in Validation & Desire (00:06:01)How men and women seek validation and desire, and the emotional needs driving infidelity.Personal Experience & Using Ashley Madison (00:08:06)Jen shares her open relationship journey and her research experience joining Ashley Madison.Why Men Send Unsolicited Photos (00:12:20)Paul explains men’s motivations for sending explicit photos and offers advice on respectful communication.Safety, Trust, and Communication in Dating (00:13:29)Importance of trust and safety for women, and how men can better approach online dating.How to Write a Good Dating Profile (00:14:43)Paul gives advice on creating effective, respectful dating profiles, especially on Ashley Madison.Regulation, Pornography, and Privacy Concerns (00:23:46)Jen discusses state-level porn restrictions and concerns about privacy and government regulation.Understanding & Combating Adultery (00:24:41)Paul emphasizes the need to understand infidelity rather than just prohibit it.Affairs as a Way to Save Marriages (00:25:27)Research on how affairs can improve primary relationships and relieve sexual frustration.Sexual Communication & Advice for Couples (00:29:18)Paul gives advice on sexual communication, feedback, and the importance of openness and trying new things.Ashley Madison’s Marketing & Gender Perspectives (00:31:33)Discussion on how Ashley Madison’s marketing resonates differently with men and women.Dead Bedrooms & Rights to Pleasure (00:35:55)Exploring what happens when one partner loses interest in sex and the ethics of seeking pleasure elsewhere.Modern Relationships & Open Arrangements (00:36:25)How open relationships can address unmet needs and misconceptions about non-monogamy.Redefining Marriage & Relationship Norms (00:41:37)Jen and Paul discuss rewriting marriage norms, the rise of non-monogamy, and the need for personalized relationship agreements.History and Evolution of Marriage (00:42:01)Paul explains the origins of marriage, societal expectations, and evolving attitudes toward sex and partnership.COVID-19’s Impact on Relationships (00:45:52)How the pandemic intensified relationship issues and increased Ashley Madison’s user base.Personalizing Marriage & Relationship Agreements (00:46:36)Advocating for individualized marriage agreements and ongoing communication between partners.Five-Year Monogamy Contracts & Final Thoughts (00:48:04)Advice on periodic relationship check-ins and the future of Ashley Madison as a platform for discretion and diverse needs.**Ashley Madison**:https://www.ashleymadison.com/**Follow The Open Bedroom Podcast**:https://www.instagram.com/theopenbedroompodcast/

In this episode of The Open Bedroom Podcast, I welcome Dr. Alison Ash, a trauma-informed intimacy coach, to discuss navigating mismatched libidos in relationships. We explore how libido fluctuates due to life circumstances, the shift from spontaneous to responsive desire, and the impact of stress and aging. Dr. Ash offers practical strategies like scheduling connection time, building an “intimacy bank,” and embracing non-sexual touch. Our conversation also covers self-pleasure, embodiment, and open relationships as options. I encourage listeners to communicate openly, release shame, and cultivate intimacy through compassion and intentionality.

Dr. Alison Ash shares personal updates, including new offerings for neurodivergent folks and her fertility journey.

Fertility, Hormones, and Intimacy (00:03:16)

Discussion on how fertility journeys, hormones, and aging impact intimacy and libido in relationships.

Introducing the Topic: Differing Libido (00:06:00)

Jen introduces the main topic: navigating differences in libido within relationships, with personal anecdotes.

Understanding Libido Fluctuations (00:06:57)

Dr. Ash explains that libido is not static, affected by physiological, situational, and contextual factors.

New Relationship Energy & Responsive Desire (00:08:34)

Exploration of how new relationship energy impacts desire, and the shift from spontaneous to responsive desire over time.

Cultivating Responsive Desire (00:10:30)

Discussion on tools and practices to cultivate responsive desire, especially in long-term relationships.

Aging, Attraction, and Sexuality (00:12:23)

Challenging cultural narratives about aging and sexual attractiveness, especially for women.

Creating Spaciousness for Intimacy (00:14:23)

Strategies for making time and space for intimacy, including rituals and sensory-based pleasure.

Scheduling Intimacy & The Intimacy Bank (00:18:22)

Advice on scheduling connection time and introducing the "intimacy bank" concept to build emotional and sexual connection.

Self-Responsibility & Erotic Blueprints (00:22:11)

The importance of self-care, understanding erotic blueprints, and meeting your own needs in relationships.

Sexual Scripts, Resentment, and Pleasure (00:24:36)

How societal scripts and having unwanted sex can lead to resentment and disconnection from pleasure.

Asexuality & Pleasure Spectrum (00:28:04)

Clarifying asexuality as an orientation and discussing the spectrum of sexual and sensory pleasure.

Erotic Blueprints & Love Languages (00:30:09)

Exploring different frameworks for understanding what turns people on and how to communicate desires.

Embodiment: What It Is and How to Practice (00:33:45)

Defining embodiment, its benefits, and practical exercises to become more embodied.

Medicines, Drugs, and Embodiment (00:38:07)

Discussion on the use of cannabis and other substances for embodiment, and their pros and cons.

Advice for Higher Libido Partners (00:41:09)

Tools and mindset shifts for higher libido partners, including self-pleasure and breaking the pressure/rejection cycle.

Physical Affection & Creativity in Intimacy (00:44:58)

Encouraging non-penetrative intimacy, rebuilding physical affection, and creative connection strategies.

Masturbation, Boundaries, and Inclusion (00:47:42)

Navigating boundaries around self-pleasure, reducing shame, and ways to include partners in the process.

Non-Monogamy as an Option (00:49:59)

Considering open relationships or non-monogamy for couples with mismatched libido, and the potential benefits.

Dr. Alison Ash's Website:

www.TurnON.love 

Couples Retreat:

Sustainable Intimacy: Refuel Passion for Lasting Love 

Online Course:

Sexual and Emotional Intimacy Skills

*Super early bird tickets are available now for $200-$400 off

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Today I'm giving you a life update - our engagement and upcoming wedding, hormones and my health, pilates, and how to vacation as a throuple!

Timestamps:

(3:39) Life Updates

(20:43) Intro to Jess, our Third

(24:37) Balcony Suite is the way to go with 3 people

(30:33) Why it's so great vacation with 3 partners vs. 3

(36:29) Key takeaways

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Opening Up Guide: https://bit.ly/OpeningUpGuide

In this episode of The Feminine Rebellion, I join host Natty Frasca to discuss the realities of open relationships. As a certified sex and relationship coach, I share my personal journey—from experiencing sexual dissatisfaction to embracing ethical non-monogamy with my partner, Scott.

Together, Natty and I explore different relationship styles, address common misconceptions, and highlight the importance of communication, consent, and self-discovery. Our conversation encourages listeners to question societal norms, honor their desires, and approach relationships with curiosity, openness, and respect. I also offer practical advice for anyone considering or navigating open relationships.

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*FREE Opening Up Guide*

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https://www.instagram.com/thefemininerebellion

Timestamps by PodSqueezeDisclaimer and Introduction (00:00:00)

Host gives a content warning and introduces the episode’s focus on open relationships and guest Jennifer Callow.

Jennifer’s Backstory: Awakening and Therapy (00:02:56)

Jennifer shares her limited sexual experiences, therapy journey, and decision to propose an open relationship.

The Turning Point: Therapy Session and Decision (00:05:04)

Jennifer describes the pivotal therapy session and the ultimatum that led to opening her marriage.

Sexual Exploration and Inspiration (00:06:19)

Jennifer discusses influences like “Sex, Love & Goop,” and her initial solo exploration of sexuality.

Discovering New Sexual Possibilities (00:08:24)

Jennifer recounts her first experiences outside marriage and the contrast with her previous sex life.

Defining Open Relationships and Types (00:10:10)

Jennifer explains what open relationships are, including swinging, polyamory, and hybrid dynamics.

Jennifer and Scott’s Unique Dynamic (00:13:01)

Jennifer details her and Scott’s polyamorous relationship, dating women together, and their specific boundaries.

Navigating Jealousy and Relationship Rules (00:15:33)

Discussion on jealousy, emotional responses, and why they only date together to strengthen their bond.

Evolution of Their Open Relationship (00:17:42)

Jennifer describes the trial-and-error process of finding the right dynamic, including dating couples and single women.

Being Public vs. Private About ENM (00:22:58)

Jennifer talks about being open publicly, how friends and family react, and the importance of personal choice in disclosure.

Common Mistakes When Opening Up (00:26:23)

Jennifer outlines mistakes couples make, like abrupt conversations, and emphasizes education and gradual exploration.

Stigma and High-Achieving Women in ENM (00:30:07)

Discussion on the stigma of polyamory, and how many successful women are exploring open relationships.

Exploring Fetishes and Desires (00:32:41)

Jennifer introduces FetLife, discusses discovering new desires, and how different partners fulfill different needs.

Permission to Play and Mainstreaming Kink (00:36:50)

Conversation about the importance of play, mainstream depictions of kink, and the empowerment of sexual exploration.

Resources and Erotica for Exploration (00:40:39)

Jennifer recommends women-focused porn, audio erotica, and smut literature as safe ways to explore desires.

Final Thoughts: Curiosity and Permission (00:42:48)

Jennifer encourages curiosity, slow exploration, and permission to discover what works for each individual or couple.

In this episode of The Open Bedroom Podcast, I interview Rob Kancler, an expert in men’s sexual health and intimacy. We discuss the widespread crisis of physical intimacy, the impact of cultural conditioning, and the lack of honest conversations about sex—especially among men. Rob shares insights from his "Men of Substance" program, emphasizing the importance of body intelligence, nervous system regulation, and authentic connection. Together, we explore practical tools for cultivating deeper intimacy and announce upcoming programs for both men and women to foster healthier, more fulfilling sexual relationships.**Witnessing a 45-Minute Orgasm (00:00:04)** Rob describes witnessing a man induce a prolonged orgasm, sparking his curiosity about sexual potential.**The Crisis of Sexual Intimacy & Male Communication (00:01:51)** Rob discusses men’s lack of honest conversations about sex, cultural taboos, and the impact of sexual “lineages.”**Sexual Operating Systems & Widespread Dysfunction (00:07:08)** Rob explains the concept of a “sexual operating system” and common issues like mismatched libido and sexual dysfunction.

**Unfulfilled Sex Lives & Societal Statistics (00:11:45)** Rob highlights how few people experience fulfilling sex lives, referencing statistics on sexual dissatisfaction.

**Men’s Sexual Satisfaction & Awakening (00:16:20)** Discussion about when men realize their sexual approach is lacking and the importance of listening to partners.

**Beyond Routine Sex: Emergent Experience (00:20:05)** Rob describes the value of letting go of expectations and choreography to access deeper intimacy and pleasure.

**Sexual “Magic” and Forgetting What You Know (00:26:21)** Rob explains that advanced sexual experiences aren’t magic, but require unlearning cultural scripts.

**Horniness, Consciousness, and Spiritual Sex (00:33:28)** Rob introduces the idea of a bridge between horniness and consciousness leading to spiritual sexual experiences.

**Addiction, Arousal, and Embodied Safety (00:38:42)** Rob discusses how addiction to peak orgasms and dysregulation block deeper sexual experiences.

Follow Rob:

https://www.instagram.com/robkancler/

Free Bedroom Compass Assessment at BedroomCompass.com to see where you stand with the building blocks of a phenomenal sex life. It makes the teachings way more concrete and actionable.

Join one of Rob’s upcoming masterclasses this fall and winter to get a taste of the work in real time, and move towards opening doors to better, more connected and pleasurable experiences immediately. Check out robkancler.com/masterclass

Or, if you’re ready to dive in, the flagship Men of Substance Blueprint program starts in late October---next round in early 2026. That's robkancler.com/blueprint

Follow The Open Bedroom podcast: https://www.instagram.com/theopenbedroompodcast

In this episode of The Open Bedroom Podcast, I welcome Candia Raquel, a Mexican sensualist, scientist, and artist, to discuss how pleasure can be a powerful antidote to anxiety.

We explore the difference between sensuality and sexuality, the impact of societal conditioning on our relationship with pleasure, and practical somatic tools—like mindful rituals, breathwork, and embracing bodily signals—to help us reconnect with our bodies and the present moment.

Candia shares accessible strategies for busy listeners to cultivate daily pleasure, offering a compassionate approach to overcoming anxiety and fostering greater fulfillment.

Connect with Candia: https://www.instagram.com/candiaraquel

FREE 5 Day Rest Challenge:https://www.candiaraquel.com/real-rest?ref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.candiaraquel.com%2Fa%2F2147845357%2FWUV9jaur

Free Webinar for Exhausted Overachievers: https://www.candiaraquel.com/sensual-rest-webinar-reservation?ref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.candiaraquel.com%2Fa%2F2147845358%2FWUV9jaur

4 Week Course: https://www.candiaraquel.com/a/2147845359/WUV9jaur

The Open Bedroom Podcast:https://www.instagram.com/theopenbedroompodcast

In this episode of The Open Bedroom Podcast, I talk with Andrea Dindinger, a veteran marriage and family therapist, about why couples have the same arguments repeatedly—often over small issues like running late or household chores.

Andrea explains these fights usually mask deeper needs for love, respect, and connection. We discuss relationship archetypes, emotional triggers, and practical tools like “bookmarking” conflicts.

Our conversation offers actionable advice for breaking negative cycles, improving communication, and turning recurring disagreements into opportunities for greater intimacy and understanding.

Timestamps by PodSqueezeCertainly! Here are the top 10 timestamps, keeping the same format, content, and context:

Sex and Money: The Roots of Power Struggles (00:00:03)

Andrea discusses how sex and money are complex, power-based issues in relationships.

Podcast Introduction and Guest Welcome (00:00:32)

Jen introduces the podcast, Andrea’s background, and the episode’s focus on recurring fights.

Why Do Couples Have the Same Fights? (00:01:07)

Andrea explains why couples repeat the same arguments and the emotional needs beneath them.

Common Triggers: Running Late and Household Habits (00:01:44)

Discussion of typical recurring fights, like lateness and household chores, and their deeper meanings.

The Loop as an Invitation for Intimacy (00:03:23)

Andrea reframes recurring fights as opportunities for connection rather than blame.

Breaking Down the “Running Late” Archetype (00:04:22)

Jen and Andrea analyze the punctual “drill sergeant” archetype and its roots in childhood or military experiences.

Emotional Layers Behind Punctuality (00:06:07)

Exploring the fear, anxiety, and shame beneath anger about lateness.

The “Airy Fairy” and Multitasker Archetypes (00:08:05)

Discussion of the partner who is less time-focused, often multitasking or losing track of time.

Disassociation and Entitlement in Time Perception (00:10:18)

Andrea explains how some people disconnect from time and its social impact.

How Opposites Attract in Relationships (00:10:51)

Why punctual and non-punctual partners are drawn to each other and how their dynamics play out.

Follow Andrea:

https://www.andreadindinger.com/
linkedin.com/in/andrea-dindinger
https://www.facebook.com/AndreaDindinger/
https://www.instagram.com/andreadindinger/
https://www.youtube.com/@andreadindinger
https://www.tiktok.com/@therapywithandrea

LOOP BREAKER: 

https://enroll.andreadindinger.com/loop-breaker-landing-page-page

RELATIONSHIP REBOOT: 

https://enroll.andreadindinger.com/relationship-reboot-course

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What is New Relationship Energy? (00:01:19) Explains the chemical basis of NRE, its emotional impact, and outlines the episode’s structure: dangers, benefits, and management.Dangers of NRE: Neglect and Rash Decisions (00:02:44) Discusses neglecting existing relationships, children, work, and making impulsive decisions due to NRE.Dangers of NRE: Ignoring Red Flags and Jealousy (00:04:07) Covers ignoring red flags in new partners and how NRE can fuel jealousy and insecurities in existing relationships.Dangers of NRE: Partners Aren’t Therapists (00:05:28) Advises against using partners as emotional dumping grounds for NRE excitement; suggests finding friends or therapists instead.Dangers of NRE: Emotional Instability (00:06:42) Addresses emotional highs and lows, and the importance of maintaining emotional regulation and security with existing partners.Benefits of NRE: Mood, Libido, and Connection (00:09:09) Highlights NRE’s positive effects: mood boost, increased libido, emotional closeness, and willingness to try new experiences.Benefits of NRE: New Experiences and Growth (00:11:25) Shares personal stories illustrating how NRE encourages trying new things and expanding personal horizons.Managing NRE: Setting Boundaries (00:13:30) Emphasizes the importance of boundaries with new and existing partners to maintain relationship health.Managing NRE: Calendaring and Scheduling (00:16:01) Describes using calendaring systems to organize time with multiple partners and ensure everyone’s needs are met.Follow The Open Bedroom Podcast:https://www.instagram.com/theopenbedroompodcast