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.
We also share personal stories from our own journey in the lifestyle and the people who intentionally “opened the circle” for us through kindness, mentorship, hospitality, and connection. Along the way, we reflect on some of the challenges that can prevent true inclusion — competitiveness, scarcity mentality, ageism, and prioritizing physical connection over relational connection.
Finally, we discuss practical ways to “open the circle” in everyday life: noticing those on the margins, creating emotional safety, welcoming newcomers, and embracing people who are different from us. Whether in friendships, relationships, or community spaces, meaningful connection starts when someone chooses to make room for “one more person.” We hope this conversation inspires you to think about who in your world may simply need an invitation, a kind word, or a reminder that they belong!
Mentioned in this episode:
Contact Mr Jones for a promo code to try the We Gotta Thing community for three months!
Book your Desire Resorts trip here
Trial membership to lifestyle dating sites Kasidie and SDC
Music used with permission from Luxe Music Studios:
We Gotta Thing
Playtime
Dressed to Undress
This episode of We Gotta Thing is presented in three segments:
Segment 1 | Keeping Up With Expansive Connection
Segment 2 | Conversation with Dr Mitch
Segment 3 | The Expansive Connection Circle
If you enjoy this episode, be sure to check out all of our podcast episodes!
Want more We Gotta Thing content? Be sure to also check out our articles about swinging on Medium.
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We are Mr. & Mrs. Jones, and we gotta thing goin’ on! The We Gotta Thing podcast began in 2014 as a way for us to chronicle our journey though the swinger lifestyle and share content that is meant to be interesting, useful, entertaining, and supportive of others who are in or considering entering the lifestyle. We have released an episode every month (with one exception) ever since, offering insight on relevant topics and sometimes comical glimpses into the ups and downs associated with being a married couple that swings, along with a sexy snapshots of our experiences.
If you listen straight through from Episode 1 to the present, you’ll undoubtably notice our growth as we navigate the journey. (You’ll also notice that our podcasting equipment and skills get a lot better after the first few episodes!)
You can listen to our podcast through this website, or wherever you listen to podcasts.