Believe it or not, the term “polyamory” has only been around for a little over 30 years. However, while the name itself is still relatively new, the practice of it definitely isn’t. Although people were living polyamorous lives long before we ever had this name for it, the way people practice it has morphed and changed over time. So let’s dive into the long and fascinating history and evolution of polyamory in the United States.

My guest today is Christopher Gleason, who lectures at Kennesaw State University and is the Director of Academic Programs at the Georgia Coalition for Higher Education in Prisons. He lives in Atlanta and his latest book is titled American Poly: A History.

Some of the topics we explore include:

When did the term polyamory first enter the mainstream, and what were people calling it before that?
Who were the first people practicing something that looks like what we might call polyamory today?
How did countercultural religious movements in the 1960s and 70s shape the practice of ethical non-monogamy?
How did the advent of the internet impact the polyamory movement?
How have portrayals of polyamory evolved in the media, and how does this shape people’s views and attitudes towards it?

To stay connected, you can find Christopher on Instagram @christophermgleason

Thank you to our sponsors!

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Credits: Precision Podcasting (Podcast editing) and Shutterstock/Florian (Music). Image created with Canva; photos used with permission of guest.

The Country Full Show: Monday, October 20, 2025