Relationship Diversity Podcast

Send us a textEpisode 118:Let’s Be Real with Our Relationship Experiences: Wisdom from Evita Lavitaloca Sawyers In this episode, I have a rich discussion with Evita Sawyers, a black, queer, non-monogamous educator, speaker, coach, and author. The conversation sheds light on the importance of emotions and personal growth within diverse relationship structures.  Evita shares her evolution from monogamy to non-monogamy, including her initial challenges and experiences with swinging and polyamory. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of flexibility, self-reflection, and emotional honesty in navigating non-monogamous relationships.  Evita highlights her book 'A Polyamory Devotional: 365 Daily Reflections for the Consensually Non-Monogamous,' offering daily reflections for any relationship type. The episode advocates for positive thinking, managing emotional energy, and inclusivity in relationships, encouraging listeners to explore their authentic choices without societal judgment. Practical insights into avoiding catastrophizing, the practice of self-compassion, and conscious connection over fear are also discussed.  Run, don’t walk to get Evita’s book!A Polyamory Devotional: 365 Daily Reflections for the Consensually Non-Monogamous Connect with Evita:Instagram 00:00 Embracing Our Emotions00:49 Introduction to the Podcast01:51 Guest Introduction: Evita Sawyers02:28 Evita's Journey into Non-Monogamy05:13 Navigating Non-Monogamous Relationships09:20 Challenges and Realities of Polyamory12:07 Evita's Polyamory Devotional27:07 Reflections on Love and Courage30:24 Overcoming Disconnection in Relationships32:43 Embracing and Feeling Uncomfortable Emotions40:35 Managing Anxiety and Catastrophic Thinking52:03 Vision for the Future of Diverse Relationships55:14 Conclusion and Ways to ConnectThis is Relationships Reimagined.Join the conversation as we dive into a new paradigm of conscious, intentional and diverse relationships. ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️Get Your Free Relationship Diversity GuideConnect with me:YouTubeInstagramWebsiteGet my book, “Why Do They Always Break Up with Me? The Ultimate Guide to Overcome Heartbreak for GoodPodcast Music by Zachariah HickmanSupport the show Please note: I am not a doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist, therapist, counselor, or social worker. I am not attempting to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any physical, mental, or emotional issue, disease, or condition. The information provided in or through my podcast is not intended to be a substitute for the professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by your own Medical Provider or Mental Health Provider. Always seek the advice of your own Medical Provider and/or Mental Health Provider regarding any questions or concerns you have about your specific circumstance.

Send us a textEpisode 117:Relationships are Political with Michelle Hy, Polyamorous While AsianIn this episode, I have a thought-provoking conversation with Michelle Hy, a second-generation Asian American and advocate for polyamory within the BIPOC community.  We discuss the deeply political nature of relationships, how politics impact who and how we love, and the intersectional challenges faced by non-monogamous people of color.  Michelle shares her personal journey into polyamory, her mission to normalize non-monogamy, and the importance of addressing societal bias and privilege. Highlighted topics include the implications of legal recognition for non-monogamous relationships, community building, and envisioning a future where diverse relationship structures are widely accepted and normalized. Connect with Michelle:Instagram | Website Michele’s Instagram Post on Relationships are Political  00:00 Introduction to Relationship Diversity00:15 Welcome to the Podcast01:17 Introducing Michelle Hy03:38 Michelle's Journey into Polyamory08:33 Intersectionality and Non-Monogamy11:11 Polyamory and Politics13:31 Challenges and Privileges in Non-Monogamous Relationships25:38 Community Building and Support30:37 Conclusion and Future VisionThis is Relationships Reimagined.Join the conversation as we dive into a new paradigm of conscious, intentional and diverse relationships. ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️Get Your Free Relationship Diversity GuideConnect with me:YouTubeInstagramWebsiteGet my book, “Why Do They Always Break Up with Me? The Ultimate Guide to Overcome Heartbreak for GoodPodcast Music by Zachariah Hickman Support the show Please note: I am not a doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist, therapist, counselor, or social worker. I am not attempting to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any physical, mental, or emotional issue, disease, or condition. The information provided in or through my podcast is not intended to be a substitute for the professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by your own Medical Provider or Mental Health Provider. Always seek the advice of your own Medical Provider and/or Mental Health Provider regarding any questions or concerns you have about your specific circumstance.

Send us a textEpisode 116:Fear’s Role in Relationship Exploration and GrowthIn this episode, I explore the multifaceted nature of fear and its role in personal growth and relationship diversity.  I discuss how fear can both protect and limit us, offering practical strategies for self-reflection and understanding our relationship with fear.  I explore the questions: When should you push through the fear and when should you listen to it and pull back? Fear is a natural and normal emotion, especially when questioning or exploring different relationship structures. We shouldn’t feel bad or broken for feeling fear. It’s important and has many important messages for us. This episode explores these messages and how to decipher what your fear is trying to tell you. 00:00 Introduction to Fear and Relationships00:17 Welcome to the Relationship Diversity Podcast02:35 Exploring Fear as a Catalyst for Growth04:57 Pushing Through Fear for Self-Growth09:13 Listening to Fear and Setting Boundaries12:42 Practices to Understand and Manage Fear20:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts22:23 Podcast Outro and Additional Resources This is Relationships Reimagined.Join the conversation as we dive into a new paradigm of conscious, intentional and diverse relationships. ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️Get Your Free Relationship Diversity GuideConnect with me:YouTubeInstagramWebsiteGet my book, “Why Do They Always Break Up with Me? The Ultimate Guide to Overcome Heartbreak for GoodPodcast Music by Zachariah HickmanSupport the show Please note: I am not a doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist, therapist, counselor, or social worker. I am not attempting to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any physical, mental, or emotional issue, disease, or condition. The information provided in or through my podcast is not intended to be a substitute for the professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by your own Medical Provider or Mental Health Provider. Always seek the advice of your own Medical Provider and/or Mental Health Provider regarding any questions or concerns you have about your specific circumstance.

Send us a textEpisode 115:Behind the Film, “Open: A Journey Through Love’ with Filmmaker Roderick Stevens II In this episode of the Relationship Diversity Podcast, I talk with filmmaker Roderick E. Stevens II about his new documentary, 'Open: A Journey Through Love.' The film aims to de-stigmatize ethical non-monogamy and explore its positive impacts on individuals and relationships. Roderick shares his journey into the non-monogamous community, his filmmaking process, and the challenges and rewards of creating the documentary. The conversation delves into various aspects of relationship structures, including swinging, polyamory, and body positivity, while emphasizing the importance of communication and intentionality in relationships. 00:00 Introduction: Challenging Relationship Norms00:48 Welcome to the Relationship Diversity Podcast01:50 Introducing Roderick Stevens and His Documentary03:01 Roderick's Journey into Filmmaking and Non-Monogamy05:58 The Impact of Non-Monogamy on Relationships15:41 Creating the Documentary: Inspiration and Process18:24 Exploring Different Forms of Non-Monogamy33:02 The Future of Non-Monogamy and Final Thoughts35:10 Conclusion and How to Watch the Documentary41:55 Closing Remarks and Additional ResourcesConnect with Roderick:WEBSITE | TWITTER | YOUTUBE | INSTAGRAM Yes, It's a Painting WebsiteThis is Relationships Reimagined.Join the conversation as we dive into a new paradigm of conscious, intentional and diverse relationships. ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️Get Your Free Relationship Diversity GuideConnect with me:YouTubeInstagramWebsiteGet my book, “Why Do They Always Break Up with Me? The Ultimate Guide to Overcome Heartbreak for GoodPodcast Music by Zachariah HickmanSupport the show Please note: I am not a doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist, therapist, counselor, or social worker. I am not attempting to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any physical, mental, or emotional issue, disease, or condition. The information provided in or through my podcast is not intended to be a substitute for the professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by your own Medical Provider or Mental Health Provider. Always seek the advice of your own Medical Provider and/or Mental Health Provider regarding any questions or concerns you have about your specific circumstance.

Send us a textEpisode 114:Decolonizing Relationships: BIPOC Perspectives with Dr. Badiee, PolyTherapistIn this episode of the Relationship Diversity Podcast, I have a profound conversation with Dr. Badiee, a polytherapist and professor of psychology at California State University. We discuss the complexities faced by BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) individuals in polyamorous and non-monogamous relationships within the context of white supremacy. Dr. Badiee shares her personal and professional journey, emphasizing the need to center BIPOC voices in polyamorous discourse. The conversation covers the importance of critical self-reflection, decolonizing relationships, and increasing representation in academic literature. Dr. Badiee reveals insights from her recent research on polyamorous BIPOC communities and highlights the rich contributions these communities bring to the understanding of love and relationships.Connect with Dr. Badiee:Instagram | Threads | TikTok | Website 00:00 Understanding the Challenges of BIPOC in Non-Monogamous Relationships00:42 Introduction to the Relationship Diversity Podcast01:43 Meet Dr. Badiee: A Pioneer in Polyamorous Therapy05:33 Dr. Badiee's Personal Journey and Professional Focus07:14 The Intersection of Race, Culture, and Polyamory08:48 The Importance of Community in Polyamorous BIPOC Experiences19:44 Dr. Badiee's Research and Contributions to Polyamory Literature30:37 Final Thoughts and Future Visions for Diverse Relationships33:32 Conclusion and How to Connect with Dr. Badiee This is Relationships Reimagined.Join the conversation as we dive into a new paradigm of conscious, intentional and diverse relationships. ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️Get Your Free Relationship Diversity GuideConnect with me:YouTubeInstagramWebsiteGet my book, “Why Do They Always Break Up with Me? The Ultimate Guide to Overcome Heartbreak for GoodPodcast Music by Zachariah HickmanSupport the show Please note: I am not a doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist, therapist, counselor, or social worker. I am not attempting to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any physical, mental, or emotional issue, disease, or condition. The information provided in or through my podcast is not intended to be a substitute for the professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by your own Medical Provider or Mental Health Provider. Always seek the advice of your own Medical Provider and/or Mental Health Provider regarding any questions or concerns you have about your specific circumstance.

Send us a textEp. 113: Polyamory on Purpose: 4 Pillars to Thrive in Your Relationships with Chaneé Jackson-KendallIn this episode of the Relationship Diversity Podcast, I welcome Chaneé Jackson Kendall, a polyamorous educator and activist. We discuss Chaneé's journey into polyamory, her work in polyamorous education and activism, and her concept of 'intentional polyamory.' The conversation delves into Chaneé's four pillars of intentional polyamory - self-work, relational culture, information sharing, and community. Chaneé shares her insights on how polyamorous people can thrive in their relationships by intentionally deprogramming harmful beliefs and structures. The episode also emphasizes the importance of supportive communities and continuous personal growth. Additional topics include the impact of cultural heritage on relationship structures and the importance of visibility and inclusivity in the polyamorous community.Connect with Chaneé: Linktree| Intentional Polyamory Cohort| Book A Coaching| Schedule a Fit Call This is Relationships Reimagined.A new paradigm of conscious, intentional and diverse relationships. ✴️ ✴️ ✴️Get Your Free Relationship Diversity GuideConnect with me:YouTubeInstagramWebsiteGet my book, “Why Do They Always Break Up with Me? The Ultimate Guide to Overcome Heartbreak for GoodPodcast MSupport the show Please note: I am not a doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist, therapist, counselor, or social worker. I am not attempting to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any physical, mental, or emotional issue, disease, or condition. The information provided in or through my podcast is not intended to be a substitute for the professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by your own Medical Provider or Mental Health Provider. Always seek the advice of your own Medical Provider and/or Mental Health Provider regarding any questions or concerns you have about your specific circumstance.

Send us a textEpisode 112: Relationship Diversity: A Crash CourseIn this episode, I celebrate my 2nd anniversary and the return of the Relationship Diversity Podcast with a special crash course on relationship diversity. I dive into the various relationship structures including soloamory, monogamy, open relationships, and polyamory, emphasizing the importance of knowing oneself and creating unique, conscious relationships that evolve over time. I highlight the value of going beyond societal programming and encourage open, compassionate communication. Throughout, I provide insights on the transformative power of self-awareness and the benefits of creating personalized relationship frameworks based on individual needs and desires.00:00 Welcome to the Relationship Diversity Podcast00:50 Exciting Return and Upcoming Interviews02:44 Introduction to Relationship Diversity05:29 Understanding Conscious Relationships07:44 Exploring Basic Relationship Structures09:28 The Importance of Labels and Timing12:39 Diverse Relationship Structures in Practice15:59 Reimagining Relationships and Self-Discovery18:48 Conclusion and Further ResourcesThis is Relationships Reimagined.Join the conversation as we dive into a new paradigm of conscious, intentional and diverse relationships.Listen to the full episodes of this mashup:Ep. 001: What is Relationship Diversity? Could It Be the Answer to Fulfilling Intimate Relationships?Ep. 002: Exploring Diverse Relationship StructuresEp. 004: Letting Go of Relationship Expectations to Find the Gold ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️Get Your Free Relationship Diversity GuideConnect with me:YouTubeInstagramWebsiteGet my book, “Why Do They Always Break Up with Me? The Ultimate Guide to Overcome Heartbreak for GoodPodcast Music by Zachariah HickmanSupport the show Please note: I am not a doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist, therapist, counselor, or social worker. I am not attempting to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any physical, mental, or emotional issue, disease, or condition. The information provided in or through my podcast is not intended to be a substitute for the professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by your own Medical Provider or Mental Health Provider. Always seek the advice of your own Medical Provider and/or Mental Health Provider regarding any questions or concerns you have about your specific circumstance.

Send us a textEpisode 111: Self-Care as a From of Self-AdvocacyIn this episode I discuss the essential practice of self-care, emphasizing its role as a form of self-advocacy. I share my personal journey of integrating a daily self-care practice, advocating its importance for maintaining balance and well-being. I offer practical suggestions for incorporating simple self-care rituals into daily life and discuss how self-care can extend to advocating within relationships and the wider community.  This episode encourages listeners to reimagine self-care not just as a personal practice, but as a foundational step towards fostering more intentional and conscious relationships.00:00 The Importance of Self Care00:17 Welcome to the Relationship Diversity Podcast01:08 Redefining Self-Care03:00 Self-Care as Self-Advocacy03:24 A Busy Summer and the Need for Self-Care04:20 Lessons from Brett Chamberlain05:40 Practical Self-Care Tips08:50 Advocating for Yourself in Relationships11:13 Taking a Break for Self-Care13:11 Closing Thoughts and Staying ConnectedEpisode 20: Self-Care is NOT a Luxury!Episode 104: Advocacy and Support for Non-Monogamy with Brett ChamberlinThis is Relationships Reimagined.Join the conversation as we dive into a new paradigm of conscious, intentional and diverse relationships. ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️Get Your Free Relationship Diversity GuideConnect with me:YouTubeInstagramWebsiteGet my book, “Why Do They Always Break Up with Me? The Ultimate Guide to Overcome Heartbreak for GoodPodcast Music by Zachariah Hickman Support the show Please note: I am not a doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist, therapist, counselor, or social worker. I am not attempting to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any physical, mental, or emotional issue, disease, or condition. The information provided in or through my podcast is not intended to be a substitute for the professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by your own Medical Provider or Mental Health Provider. Always seek the advice of your own Medical Provider and/or Mental Health Provider regarding any questions or concerns you have about your specific circumstance.

Send us a textEpisode 110:Is There a RIGHT Way to do Non-Monogamy? with Emma and Finn from Normalizing Non-MonogamyIn this episode, I have an enlightening conversation with my friends, Emma and Fin, the hosts of the Normalizing Non-Monogamy podcast.  They discuss the endless possibilities of relationship structures, their personal journey into non-monogamy, and the lessons they've learned from interviewing hundreds of people over the years.  The episode emphasizes the importance of living an authentic life, the power of community support, and the fact that there is no 'right' way to do relationships. The conversation addresses the challenges and rewards of non-monogamy and provides insights into building and maintaining various types of relationships. Additionally, they explore the origins and growth of their community and the value of in-person and online connections. 01:49 Meet Emma and Finn from Normalizing Non-Monogamy02:39 Emma and Finn's Relationship Journey06:30 Exploring Non-Monogamy: Early Experiences13:37 Challenges and Growth in Non-Monogamy19:54 The Inspiration Behind the Podcast23:19 Takeaways from Hundreds of Conversations28:54 Navigating Autonomy in Long-Term Relationships29:52 Exploring Solo Polyamory30:19 Challenging Relationship Norms33:06 The Importance of Community34:56 Building and Growing a Supportive Community38:18 In-Person Retreats and Events43:04 Workshop: Is There a Right Way to Do Non-Monogamy?50:20 Embracing the Messiness of Relationships52:29 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Connect with Emma and Finn:Website | Podcast | Community This is Relationships Reimagined.Join the conversation as we dive into a new paradigm of conscious, intentional and diverse relationships. ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️Get Your Free Relationship Diversity GuideConnect with me:YouTubeInstagramWebsiteGet my book, “Why Do They Always Break Up with Me? The Ultimate Guide to Overcome Heartbreak for GoodPodcast Music by Zachariah Hickman Support the show Please note: I am not a doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist, therapist, counselor, or social worker. I am not attempting to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any physical, mental, or emotional issue, disease, or condition. The information provided in or through my podcast is not intended to be a substitute for the professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by your own Medical Provider or Mental Health Provider. Always seek the advice of your own Medical Provider and/or Mental Health Provider regarding any questions or concerns you have about your specific circumstance.

Send us a textEpisode 109:The Mono/Poly Relationship: Challenges and Solutions with Dr. Elisabeth Sheff In this episode I speak with my friend, renowned researcher and coach Dr. Elisabeth Sheff returns to discuss the mono-poly relationship dynamic. We explore the challenges, misconceptions, and potential strategies for making such relationships work, emphasizing the importance of meeting partners' needs, effective communication, and mutual understanding. Dr. Sheff shares insights from her research and personal experiences, offering guidance for those navigating relationships where one partner desires monogamy and the other seeks polyamory. We also discuss the emotional and social hurdles often faced by couples in these dynamics and the significance of seeking support and continued re-evaluation in relationships. Connect with Dr. Eli:Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | Waitlist for Eli’s Mono/Poly CourseEpisode 42: Conversations with Dr. Elisabeth Sheff about the Evolution of Diverse Relationships and The Bonding ProjectMono in a Poly World: What to Do When Your Partner Is Polyamorous and You Aren't by Tazmyn Ozga00:00 Introduction to Relationship Compromises00:45 Welcome to the Relationship Diversity Podcast01:47 Introducing Dr. Elisabeth Sheff05:15 Personal Journey into Polyamory07:12 Challenges and Realizations in Polyamory13:56 Understanding the Mono-Poly Dynamic25:48 Understanding Monogamous and Polyamorous Wiring28:40 Navigating the Mono-Poly Relationship Dynamic31:47 Debunking Myths and Addressing Shame34:48 Finding Balance and Compromise45:58 Resources and Support for Mono-Poly Relationships50:53 Final Thoughts and EncouragementThis is Relationships Reimagined.Join the conversation as we dive into a new paradigm of conscious, intentional and diverse relationships. ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️ ✴️Get Your Free Relationship Diversity GuideConnect with me:YouTubeInstagramWebsiteGet my book, “Why Do They Always Break Up with Me? The Ultimate Guide to Overcome Heartbreak for GoodPodcast Music by Zachariah HickmanSupport the show Please note: I am not a doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist, therapist, counselor, or social worker. I am not attempting to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any physical, mental, or emotional issue, disease, or condition. The information provided in or through my podcast is not intended to be a substitute for the professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by your own Medical Provider or Mental Health Provider. Always seek the advice of your own Medical Provider and/or Mental Health Provider regarding any questions or concerns you have about your specific circumstance.