The phrase “taking one for the team” is often treated as a hard boundary in ethical non-monogamy, but we think the reality is far more nuanced. For us, attraction is rarely determined by physical appearance alone. Decisions about whether to pursue a connection are influenced by a combination of factors including chemistry, personality, intelligence, behavior, relationship dynamics, safety, sobriety, and sometimes that unexplainable “ick” factor. 

We also discuss whether there are times when “taking one for the team” can actually be a positive experience. When you feel emotionally and physically safe, genuinely enjoy someone’s company, and trust a couple you’ve come to know, a lack of immediate physical attraction or chemistry doesn’t necessarily have to end the conversation. By keeping an open mind, couples may discover rewarding experiences and relationships they otherwise would have overlooked.

What if the key to greater pleasure, connection, and fulfillment is understanding your unique erotic wiring? In this episode, we explore the Erotic Blueprints™, a framework developed by somatic sexologist Jaiya that helps explain the different ways people experience desire, arousal, and intimacy. We unpack the five Erotic Blueprints—Energetic, Sensual, Sexual, Kinky, and Shapeshifter—and explore how each type experiences pleasure differently.

In this episode, Dr Mitch from Expansive Connection joins us as we explore the powerful idea of “Opening the Circle” — the human need to feel welcomed, included, and connected. We talk about how the first question most people ask when entering any new environment isn’t “What’s going on here?” but “Do I belong here?” From friendships to community to ethical non-monogamy, creating spaces where people feel seen and valued can change lives. 

In this episode we are reframing the traditional concept of “swinging” by moving away from labels that feel intimidating or misleading and instead embracing the broader concept of ethical non-monogamy. While the term “swinger” often implies casual sex with others and the word “lifestyle” is vague and overused, ethical non-monogamy better captures what you actually explore: intentional relationships with open boundaries that prioritize your primary partnership while allowing varying levels of intimacy with others.

We’ve talked about jealousy, we’ve talked about body image. We’ve discussed learning to flirt and being courageous in the lifestyle. But beneath the surface we all have insecurities about ourselves at the root of all these things! In this episode we share what we believe are the causes of our insecurities, how they manifest themselves in our lifestyle journey and share tools to help overcome them to find freedom in being yourself and enjoying others! 

There are no shortage of lifestyle sitiuations that will cause us some anxiety! Visiting a club for the first time, going on a first date, being rejected by others, wondering if our partner will ‘find someone better,’ performance issue worries….and so on.

What is actually going on in our brains when we feel anxious or depressed? How can we recognize what’s really happening and deal with it in a healthy way? Meshai from Expansive Connection Coaching joins us as we help to address some of these very common concerns. Spoiler Alert: You are not alone in dealing with these feelings and emotions!

In this episode we review our trip to ‘The Resort’ which was first introduced by George in episode 137. The Resort is a new opportunity to step into ethical non-monogamy in a fresh format and market. This property is set on the cliffs of western Jamaica and is absolutely stunning! The views, the service, the food, the entertainment, the sensual vibe and of course the sexy people were all amazing. Spoiler alert: you won’t be disappointed….

Can the lifestyle become an addiction? Well, it can if we don’t recognize what’s going on in our brains. In this episode with Catherine from Expansive Connection, we break down the key components at play including New Relationship Energy (NRE), Novelty, Desensation, the ‘Pleasure Paradox’ and how all of this shows up in our relationships. Of course we also discuss ways to recognize and respond when armed with this new knowledge!

What does it take to be ‘successful’ as a couple in the world of non-monogamy? In this episode we discuss waht we believe to be the four most important characteristics of a power couple in the lifestyle:
-Be Connected
-Be Curious
-Be Confident
-Be Approachable

Do you struggle with your understanding of how non-monogamy reconciles with a life of faith? Join us for a thought provoking conversation with Dr Mitch G, the newest member of the Expansive Connection coaching team. His training, experience, and specialization in religion and theology provides a helpful framework and understanding for those with religious backgrounds who find themselves struggling with their belief systems or plagued by shame, guilt, and fear over what they’ve been taught or once believed.