This week on Unmasking Kink, Nova Monroe explores one of the simplest yet most powerful tools in the kink world: the Yes/No/Maybe List. Whether you’re brand new to BDSM or just looking for a better way to communicate with partners, this little checklist can make all the difference.

Nova breaks down what it is, why it matters, and how to use it—without overthinking or overcomplicating. Plus, a special milestone: the podcast has officially hit 200 downloads!

Tune in for practical tips, a bit of personal reflection, and a preview of Nova’s printable Yes/No/Maybe List that will soon be available on Etsy.

✨ Clearer communication, safer play, and more fun—that’s the power of Yes/No/Maybe.

In this episode of Unmasking Kink, I share my first experience attending a munch! What it's like, how to prepare and what you can expect when you walk into your first one. 

Whether you're brand new to kink, or looking for community, this episode breaks down the who, what, when, where, why and how of munches in a way that's welcoming, real and a little bit personal. 

Finding Events & Munches

Understanding Munches & Etiquette

For Newcomers to Kink & Events

Find all I’ve got going on at the website

Not every episode needs to be loud to hit hard.

This week, I’m exploring the very first kink I ever recognized in myself, masochism. What draws someone to enjoy pain? Is it something to worry about, or something worth understanding on a deeper level? I’m breaking down common misconceptions, unpacking the psychology, and tackling the big question: is masochism a mental disorder, or just another way humans seek sensation, control, and connection?

It’s a slower, more thoughtful vibe, but worth every second.

Articles referenced:

In this episode of Unmasking Kink, we delve into the tension between authenticity and acceptability in the kink community. Inspired by insightful posts from FetLife users Tittan and Vampyre, we explore the implications of sanitizing BDSM for mainstream comfort.

We'll discuss personal boundaries, the importance of consent, and the value of embracing the raw, unfiltered aspects of kink.

Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the scene, this conversation invites you to reflect on the true essence of kink and the importance of preserving its integrity.

 Featured FetLife Writers:

Tittan – “When Kink Gets Tamed: The Dangers of Vanilla-fying BDSM”

Vampyre – “BDSM Isn’t About Making Outsiders Comfortable”

You’ve probably asked yourself:

“Am I kinky? Or just curious?”

The answers? Could be both, possibly, and absolutely not.

In this episode, I give my take on what it means to be kinky or vanilla, or somewhere in between. We’ll talk about how those labels aren’t fixed, what actually “counts” as kink, and how to start exploring.

Topics include:

The difference between kink and vanilla

Why “what counts as kink” depends on who you ask

Where to look for real, respectful information

Whether you're seasoned, curious, or still figuring it out—you belong here.

Resources mentioned:

FetLife: https://fetlife.com

Chief’s Sex Menu: https://kinkyevents.co.uk/sex-menu

Shibari on YouTube (my favorite video): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HTnFlfm04uk

Local classes and munches: Search via FetLife or reach out to event organizers

More: https://unmaskingkink.com

Description:

In this debut episode of Unmasking Kink, Nova Monroe breaks down what kink actually is—and what it isn’t. We talk about the difference between kink and BDSM, explore how kink doesn’t always have to be sexual, and tackle the question: Is this normal? (Spoiler: yes.) Whether you’re curious, questioning, or just here to learn, this episode gives you a shame-free, honest look at how broad and human kink really is.

Show Notes & Resources:

Articles & Resources Referenced:

Connect with Nova:

Website: unmaskingkink.com

Submit questions, sources, or feedback via the contact form!

Welcome to Unmasking Kink! Let me start by introducing myself, and give you the low down on what to expect from Unmasking Kink and the community we're going to build together!

Unmasking Kink is a podcast for the curious, the kinky, and everyone in between. 

Hosted by Nova Monroe, each episode explores real questions about kink, BDSM, and the lifestyle. Nova isn't an expert, but she's a proud research nerd, digging into topics so we can learn and grow together. 

From vanilla to veteran, this space is for anyone who's ever felt left out, unsure or just plain curios. 

Join Nova, and together, we'll unmask what kink is all about.