The Open Nesters

[Tessa] Heather Hundhausen is our guest this week on The Open Nesters Podcast. We continue our conversation – it has been a few years since we first met Heather in Episode 43, Paradoxical Power and Healing with the Dominatrix.

Today our focus shifts towards embracing open nesting and exploring new adventures in Act Three of life. Guest Heather Hundhausen, a coach and dominatrix, joins Amir and me to delve into the complexities of power dynamics in relationships. Heather candidly shares her experiences as a parent navigating the departure of her teenager for college, prompting a reevaluation of her relationships and future plans.

Heather’s journey of self-discovery and growth is intertwined with her polyamorous lifestyle and unique dating preferences. She sheds light on her upcoming dominatrix workshop, aiming to educate women on dominance and submission dynamics. The conversation evolves to delve into BDSM practices, emphasizing the importance of consent, trust, and the psychological aspects of power dynamics in dominant-submissive relationships. Please learn more about Heather on her website: Heather Hundhausen

In this episode with Heather we further explore the concept of Existential Kink, highlighting the significance of introspection and understanding one’s desires for personal growth. I am so pleased that dive into the healing aspects of BDSM, distinguishing between healthy power dynamics for growth and damaging practices.

To be crystal clear, in this episode we emphasize the therapeutic potential of consensual BDSM play in addressing past traumas and promoting emotional release.

Heather delves into the role of power exchange in BDSM for healing, reflecting on the exploration of submission as a form of release and growth. The discussion extends to the impact of BDSM on personal growth, relationships, and the importance of open communication and mutual understanding between partners.

The episode concludes with insights on navigating kink, BDSM, or fetish play within relationships, emphasizing the creation of a safe and supportive space for open dialogue and exploration of desires. Heather underscores the significance of consent, mutual respect, and fostering a secure environment for intimate exploration.

The podcast serves as a platform for educating and enlightening listeners on power dynamics, sexual exploration, and embracing diverse relationship dynamics with curiosity and understanding.

We want to provide you with support and many many resources for your own Open Nesting Journey. Our resource page has so much to offer as does our private discussion group on Facebook about queerness, relationship fluidity in the empty nest, and other topics of interest:

Open Nesters Resource Page

The Open Nesters Private Facebook Group

Tessa Krone is the engine behind and the face of The Open Nesters.

Tessa holds an MA in Consciousness Studies and is a speaker, coach, program, and journey facilitator & leader, author and, of course, Podcaster.

Her offerings are based on her mission to help people open to their most self-expressed, loving selves. Tessa’s specialties include embodiment from all the senses and elements of our inner and outer lives, ranging from mindfulness, dance, play, and sensory exploration in nature.  If she had one superpower, it would be to help people, especially as they age, to live more open-hearted lives.

Please email Tessa to make a connection. If you like, please answer the question:

What do you need to OPEN your NEST? In your LIFE. In your BODY. In your SPIRIT. Do you need MORE…

[Tessa] Steve Kantor is our guest this week on The Open Nesters Podcast.

We discusses the concept of open nesting and living life boldly. He shares his personal journey, from being a serial entrepreneur to becoming an open nester after a major life-decision to leave his marriage. Steve emphasizes the importance of self-confidence, morning routines, and mental preparation in pursuing one’s passions during the open nesting stage.

Steve introduces to us… Lifebushido, a life network where people can help each other live boldly and achieve their dreams. Steve encourages us to start with small steps, like dedicating 10 minutes every morning to focus on our goals. He emphasizes the significance of relational health and self-confidence in navigating the transitions of the open nest phase.

Steve explains the idea of paying it forward within the Lifebushido community, where members support each other to fulfill their life dreams. He advocates for expanding vision and opening up possibilities, especially during pivotal life moments like the open nest stage. Steve’s vision for Life Bushido is to create a culture of helping and empowering others, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.

We want to provide you with support and many many resources for your own Open Nesting Journey. Our resource page has so much to offer as does our private discussion group on Facebook about queerness, relationship fluidity in the empty nest, and other topics of interest:

Open Nesters Resource Page

The Open Nesters Private Facebook Group

Tessa Krone is the engine behind and the face of The Open Nesters.

Tessa holds an MA in Consciousness Studies and is a speaker, coach, program, and journey facilitator & leader, author and, of course, Podcaster.

Her offerings are based on her mission to help people open to their most self-expressed, loving selves. Tessa’s specialties include embodiment from all the senses and elements of our inner and outer lives, ranging from mindfulness, dance, play, and sensory exploration in nature.  If she had one superpower, it would be to help people, especially as they age, to live more open-hearted lives.

Please email Tessa to make a connection. If you like, please answer the question:

What do you need to OPEN your NEST? In your LIFE. In your BODY. In your SPIRIT. Do you need MORE…

[Tessa]  MOTHERHOOD! Today it’s Part 2. And, just letting you know – we are really excited about this mini-series about mothering with Tami Nora and Leslie Russell. To listen to Part One click here: PART ONE. And to catch up we have a few clips from Part One on this page.

Why so excited? Well the response so far has been really positive! Lots of love coming towards these amazing women. So let’s get into it.

In this part 2, Leslie, Tami and I discuss the abundance of knowledge available today for personal growth and highlight the significance of taking responsibility without falling into guilt or punishment. The conversation touches on breaking generational patterns, daring to be different, and investigating negative thoughts to transform them into positive energy.

Tami and Leslie reflect on the interconnectedness of spirituality, sexuality, and motherhood, emphasizing the importance of softening hearts and fostering a culture of love and understanding.

Resources for You

We want to provide you with support and many many resources for your own Open Nesting Journey. Our resource page has so much to offer as does our private discussion group on Facebook about queerness, relationship fluidity in the empty nest, and other topics of interest:

Open Nesters Resource Page

The Open Nesters Private Facebook Group

About Tessa

Tessa Krone is the engine behind and the face of The Open Nesters.

Tessa holds an MA in Consciousness Studies and is a speaker, coach, program, and journey facilitator & leader, author and, of course, Podcaster.

Her offerings are based on her mission to help people open to their most self-expressed, loving selves. Tessa’s specialties include embodiment from all the senses and elements of our inner and outer lives, ranging from mindfulness, dance, play, and sensory exploration in nature.  If she had one superpower, it would be to help people, especially as they age, to live more open-hearted lives.

Please email Tessa to make a connection. If you like, please answer the question:

What do you need to OPEN your NEST? In your LIFE. In your BODY. In your SPIRIT. Do you need MORE…

[Tessa]  MOTHERHOOD! Today we highlight the importance of deep listening in parenting. The conversation includes guests Leslie Russell and Tami Nora, discussing their experiences with motherhood and the challenges and surprises they have encountered.

The discussion delves into the definition of success in motherhood, emphasizing the need to move away from traditional patriarchal views and embrace a more circular and nurturing approach. All three of us reflected on the societal expectations of success and the importance of redefining it within the context of mothering and nurturing the world.

I loved how our conversation shifted to some pretty complex emotions involved in motherhood, such as the need for attachment balanced with the importance of allowing children to grow independently. Thank you Tami and Leslie for sharing personal stories of challenges faced in motherhood, including dealing with children’s struggles and maintaining unconditional love and support.

Our conversation touches on the role of the feminine energy in nurturing and transcending divisive and hateful energies in the world. Tami and Leslie emphasize the need for re-education and understanding to support a more compassionate and inclusive approach to parenting and societal interactions.

My discussion with these two powerful women concluded with a reflection on the transformative nature of motherhood and the responsibility mothers carry in shaping the future. This is Part One of Two Parts… see you on the next episode.

Resources for You

We want to provide you with support and many many resources for your own Open Nesting Journey. Our resource page has so much to offer as does our private discussion group on Facebook about queerness, relationship fluidity in the empty nest, and other topics of interest:

Open Nesters Resource Page

The Open Nesters Private Facebook Group

About Tessa

Tessa Krone is the engine behind and the face of The Open Nesters.

Tessa holds an MA in Consciousness Studies and is a speaker, coach, program, and journey facilitator & leader, author and, of course, Podcaster.

Her offerings are based on her mission to help people open to their most self-expressed, loving selves. Tessa’s specialties include embodiment from all the senses and elements of our inner and outer lives, ranging from mindfulness, dance, play, and sensory exploration in nature.  If she had one superpower, it would be to help people, especially as they age, to live more open-hearted lives.

Please email Tessa to make a connection. If you like, please answer the question:

What do you need to OPEN your NEST? In your LIFE. In your BODY. In your SPIRIT. Do you need MORE…

Adventure

[Tessa] A new friend on the podcast this week. Welcome Robyn Vogel to our Open Nesters Family!

Robyn Vogel from Come Back to Love, is a wise Open Nester offering insights and advice, especially for single women. Robyn shares her personal journey of becoming an open nester, navigating loss, divorce, and embracing open-mindedness and open-heartedness in relationships.

Robyn emphasizes the importance of healing and personal growth in transitioning from one life stage to another, such as becoming an empty nester. She discusses the significance of internal family systems therapy in understanding and healing emotional complexities. Robyn also delves into relationship dynamics, including exploring monogamy, open relationships, and polyamory, highlighting the evolution of her own love and sexual life over the years.

Robyn and I talk about the nuances of communication in relationships, emphasizing active listening, compassionate communication, and setting boundaries. Robyn shares insights on how couples can navigate challenges, especially during the transition to becoming open nesters, focusing on softening communication, repairing relationships, and deepening intimacy. She also touches on the importance of self-awareness, boundaries, and intention in fostering healthy connections and personal growth.

Robyn discusses her upcoming program, “Heal Your Heart,” a six-month journey for singles seeking to break patterns and create the relationships they desire. She invites listeners to join her on a meditation practice to come back to love and explore healing at a deeper level. Robyn reflects on how her work has influenced her children, encouraging open-mindedness and self-empowerment in navigating their own paths.

Resources for You

We want to provide you with support and many many resources for your own Open Nesting Journey. Our resource page has so much to offer as does our private discussion group on Facebook about queerness, relationship fluidity in the empty nest, and other topics of interest:

Open Nesters Resource Page

The Open Nesters Private Facebook Group

About Tessa

Tessa Krone is the engine behind and the face of The Open Nesters.

Tessa holds an MA in Consciousness Studies and is a speaker, coach, program, and journey facilitator & leader, author and, of course, Podcaster.

Her offerings are based on her mission to help people open to their most self-expressed, loving selves. Tessa’s specialties include embodiment from all the senses and elements of our inner and outer lives, ranging from mindfulness, dance, play, and sensory exploration in nature.  If she had one superpower, it would be to help people, especially as they age, to live more open-hearted lives.

Please email Tessa to make a connection. If you like, please answer the question:

What do you need to OPEN your NEST? In your LIFE. In your BODY. In your SPIRIT. Do you need MORE…

Adventure

[Tessa] This week on The Open Nesters Podcast:  We explore embracing movement for graceful aging with author Bruce Fertman.

Balance. Vitality. Mindfulness... in the “open nest” stage of life. We explore the transformative power of walking for holistic well-being

As you will hear in the show, we delve into Bruce’s background, his journey from a rambunctious, energetic child to his passion for movement disciplines like martial arts and dance. Bruce discusses the importance of harnessing energy and finding harmony within oneself as one ages. We talk through the transition into the “open nest” stage of life, post-children leaving home, and the opportunity for personal reflection and growth during this period.

Bruce emphasizes the significance of slowing down, asking questions, and deepening one’s connection with their body as they age. He shares simple exercises like questioning where one’s body is, how much space it occupies, and whether it feels alive. Bruce’s approach encourages individuals to find comfort, vitality, and inspiration by tuning into their bodies from the inside out. Our conversation touches on the transformative power of walking, not just as physical activity but as a reflective, meditative practice that enhances awareness and connection with the environment.

Bruce Fertman is the founding director of the Alexander Alliance International, the Grace of Sense Online School, and the WalkingWay™. He has been teaching people how to move well for 60 years. He brings a lifetime of training as a movement artist and educator to his work, having trained in gymnastics, modern dance, ballet, contact improvisation, Alexander Technique, tai chi chuan, aikido, chanoyu (Japanese tea ceremony), Argentine tango, and kyudo.

Bruce has worked as a movement coach for the Berlin Philharmonic, Radio France, the National Symphony in Washington D.C., the Honolulu Symphony, the Curtis Institute of Music, and most recently for Jeong Ga Ak Hoe, a traditional Korean Music Ensemble in Seoul, South Korea. He taught at the Five College Dance Program in Amherst, Massachusetts; the Tango community in Buenos Aires; the College of Physiotherapy in Gottingen, Germany; and Temple and Rutgers universities.

He is author of Teaching by Hand/Learning by Heart: Delving into the Work of F.M. Alexander and The Way In/The Way Out: Renderings of the Tao Te Ching.  Bruce’s newest book, coauthored with Michael J. Gelb, is Walking Well: A New Approach to Experiencing Comfort and Vitality in Every Step.

Resources for You

We want to provide you with support and many many resources for your own Open Nesting Journey. Our resource page has so much to offer as does our private discussion group on Facebook about queerness, relationship fluidity in the empty nest, and other topics of interest:

Open Nesters Resource Page

The Open Nesters Private Facebook Group

About Tessa

Tessa Krone is the engine behind and the face of The Open Nesters.

Tessa holds an MA in Consciousness Studies and is a speaker, coach, program, and journey facilitator & leader, author and, of course, Podcaster.

Her offerings are based on her mission to help people open to their most self-expressed, loving selves. Tessa’s specialties include embodiment from all the senses and elements of our inner and outer lives, ranging from mindfulness, dance, play, and sensory exploration in nature.  If she had one superpower, it would be to help people, especially as they age, to live more open-hearted lives.

Please email Tessa to make a connection. If you like, please answer the question:

What do you need to OPEN your NEST? In your LIFE. In your BODY. In your SPIRIT. Do you need MORE…

Adventure

[Tessa] The Open Nesters podcast – this week with Margery and Dom. We’re calling it “CATASTROPHE SOUP.”

This Open Nesters podcast features a conversation with Margery and Dom Piccini, a couple who share their journey as they transition into the open nesting stage of life. They reflect on their experiences as their children left home and they faced financial hardships, ultimately leading to a period of reinvention. Margery discusses her shift from a successful mortgage broker to a life and business coach, incorporating her personal development journey and overcoming an autoimmune disease through deep inner work.

Dom emphasizes the importance of having purpose as an empty nester, whether through individual pursuits or shared activities with a partner. This couple stresses the significance of honesty and communication in maintaining a strong relationship, especially during challenging times. Margery highlights the role of peace, joy, and fulfillment in guiding clients toward a meaningful third act in their lives and encourages authenticity and vulnerability as pathways to growth.

To conclude, Amir and I talk through the resilience and transformation demonstrated by Margery and Dom. How they overcame adversity. Redefined success. Found joy in new beginnings. We are so appreciative of Marjorie and Dom’s openness and willingness to share their journey, offering insights into navigating life’s transitions with grace and courage.

Resources for You

We want to provide you with support and many many resources for your own Open Nesting Journey. Our resource page has so much to offer as does our private discussion group on Facebook about queerness, relationship fluidity in the empty nest, and other topics of interest:

Open Nesters Resource Page

The Open Nesters Private Facebook Group

About Tessa

Tessa Krone is the engine behind and the face of The Open Nesters.

Tessa holds an MA in Consciousness Studies and is a speaker, coach, program, and journey facilitator & leader, author and, of course, Podcaster.

Her offerings are based on her mission to help people open to their most self-expressed, loving selves. Tessa’s specialties include embodiment from all the senses and elements of our inner and outer lives, ranging from mindfulness, dance, play, and sensory exploration in nature.  If she had one superpower, it would be to help people, especially as they age, to live more open-hearted lives.

Please email Tessa to make a connection. If you like, please answer the question:

What do you need to OPEN your NEST? In your LIFE. In your BODY. In your SPIRIT. Do you need MORE…

Adventure

[Tessa] The Open Nesters podcast – this week with Mali and Joe.

Mali and Joe share insights from their book “Wild Monogamy,” discussing challenges faced in promoting it and the importance of investing in relationships. They explore topics like handling jealousy, social media’s impact, and sustaining connection through activities like date weekends.

National Indie Excellence Awards: Gold Medal

Drawing on stories from real people and the latest research on sex and love, Wild Monogamy encourages couples to develop—or redevelop!—their erotic intimacy. You’ll learn how to create an environment of love and trust in which you can compassionately and creatively work with personal challenges, explore your desires, and enjoy new depths of connection together. In the process, you will:

In this episode of The Open Nesters Podcast, Mali and Joe discuss their book “Wild Monogamy” and the challenges they faced with its promotion on platforms like Amazon due to its sexual content being misunderstood as erotica. Despite the setbacks, their book has won multiple awards, and they emphasize the importance of continuing to invest in one’s relationship and finding ways to communicate and have fun together.

MALI APPLE

The conversation delves into topics such as dealing with jealousy, the impact of social media on insecurities, and the importance of gratitude and self-awareness in relationships. Mali and Joe share their approach to maintaining a strong connection, including taking time for date weekends away from work and technology while recognizing the uniqueness of their relationship dynamic.

To listen to our interview with Mali and Joe from Season 3, CLICK HERE.

JOE DUNN

Resources for You

We want to provide you with support and many many resources for your own Open Nesting Journey. Our resource page has so much to offer as does our private discussion group on Facebook about queerness, relationship fluidity in the empty nest, and other topics of interest:

Open Nesters Resource Page

The Open Nesters Private Facebook Group

About Tessa

Tessa Krone is the engine behind and the face of The Open Nesters.

Tessa holds an MA in Consciousness Studies and is a speaker, coach, program, and journey facilitator & leader, author and, of course, Podcaster.

Her offerings are based on her mission to help people open to their most self-expressed, loving selves. Tessa’s specialties include embodiment from all the senses and elements of our inner and outer lives, ranging from mindfulness, dance, play, and sensory exploration in nature.  If she had one superpower, it would be to help people, especially as they age, to live more open-hearted lives.

Please email Tessa to make a connection. If you like, please answer the question:

What do you need to OPEN your NEST? In your LIFE. In your BODY. In your SPIRIT. Do you need MORE…

Adventure

[Tessa] He’s back! My dear friend Jonathan Pillot.

Jonathan is a creator, an explorer, and a man who is constantly challenging the norms. Each time we meet he brings me so much that is new. And so I am thrilled to have Jonathan back on the pod.

In this episode of The Open Nesters Podcast, Jonathan shares his personal journey of self-discovery and open nesting. He discusses open nesting, embracing nomadic living, and freeing oneself from societal labels. Jonathan explores the complexities of life, the value of authenticity, and self-acceptance.

Through his reflections on shame, mental health, and communication, Jonathan advocates for compassion, empathy, and self-love. He also sheds light on his upcoming projects, involvement in end-of-life work, and activism for societal issues, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and raising awareness. Jonathan is a testament to the power of self-discovery and living authentically despite societal expectations, offering insights into navigating life’s paradoxes with grace and resilience.

READ JONATHAN’S LATEST BLOG HERE: ANGER + LOVE

Resources for You

We want to provide you with support and many many resources for your own Open Nesting Journey. Our resource page has so much to offer as does our private discussion group on Facebook about queerness, relationship fluidity in the empty nest, and other topics of interest:

Open Nesters Resource Page

The Open Nesters Private Facebook Group

About Tessa

Tessa Krone is the engine behind and the face of The Open Nesters.

Tessa holds an MA in Consciousness Studies and is a speaker, coach, program, and journey facilitator & leader, author and, of course, Podcaster.

Her offerings are based on her mission to help people open to their most self-expressed, loving selves. Tessa’s specialties include embodiment from all the senses and elements of our inner and outer lives, ranging from mindfulness, dance, play, and sensory exploration in nature.  If she had one superpower, it would be to help people, especially as they age, to live more open-hearted lives.

Please email Tessa to make a connection. If you like, please answer the question:

What do you need to OPEN your NEST? In your LIFE. In your BODY. In your SPIRIT. Do you need MORE…

Adventure

[Tessa] The Open Nesters podcast with Dr. Tammy Nelson.

Today we explore open relationships and non-monogamy, emphasizing communication and boundaries. Tammy and I discuss societal acceptance of diverse relationship models, from traditional monogamy to polyamory. Dr. Nelson introduces the Date Night Card Deck for intimate conversations and mentions a couples retreat in Joshua Tree. The episode highlights the importance of continuous communication and respect in navigating non-traditional relationships.

The Open Nesters podcast explores the concept of being Open Nesters, embracing new adventures, relationships, and passions in the later stages of life. In a recent episode, Dr. Tammy Nelson, a sex and relationship expert, discussed the evolving dynamics of relationships, including open relationships and non-monogamy. Dr. Nelson shared insights from her book “Open Monogamy,” emphasizing the importance of open communication, transparency, and understanding personal boundaries in relationships.

Dr. Nelson introduced the concept of the Date Night Card Deck, a tool designed to facilitate conversations around desires, appreciations, and boundaries in relationships. The cards provide a structured approach to discussing intimate topics and exploring fantasies with a partner. The episode also mentioned an upcoming couples retreat led by Dr. Nelson in Joshua Tree, California, aimed at couples seeking to rejuvenate their relationships and enhance intimacy through guided discussions and activities.

Throughout the episode, the hosts, Amir and Tessa, shared personal anecdotes and reflections on their own journey exploring alternative relationship dynamics, highlighting the evolution of their boundaries and comfort levels over time. The discussion underscored the importance of continuous communication, courage, and mutual respect in navigating non-traditional relationship structures.

Resources for You

We want to provide you with support and many many resources for your own Open Nesting Journey. Our resource page has so much to offer as does our private discussion group on Facebook about queerness, relationship fluidity in the empty nest, and other topics of interest:

Open Nesters Resource Page

The Open Nesters Private Facebook Group

About Tessa

Tessa Krone is the engine behind and the face of The Open Nesters.

Tessa holds an MA in Consciousness Studies and is a speaker, coach, program, and journey facilitator & leader, author and, of course, Podcaster.

Her offerings are based on her mission to help people open to their most self-expressed, loving selves. Tessa’s specialties include embodiment from all the senses and elements of our inner and outer lives, ranging from mindfulness, dance, play, and sensory exploration in nature.  If she had one superpower, it would be to help people, especially as they age, to live more open-hearted lives.

Please email Tessa to make a connection. If you like, please answer the question:

What do you need to OPEN your NEST? In your LIFE. In your BODY. In your SPIRIT. Do you need MORE…

Adventure