

Let's Talk Polyamory Podcast
T and A Coaching and Therapy
You co-hosts T&A, Tara Lynne Franco, Relationship and Awesomeness Coach & André Turcotte, Sex+ Psychotherapist, share their ideas and advice on how to have authentic, connected, secure and sexy non-monogamous relationships whether you're monogamish, in an open relationship, a swinger, polyamorous or a relationship anarchist!
They bring together knowledge their years of personal experiences in polyamory, their professional practices working with individuals and couples, professional training + the best information available out there!
Visit https://www.taraandandre.com/
They bring together knowledge their years of personal experiences in polyamory, their professional practices working with individuals and couples, professional training + the best information available out there!
Visit https://www.taraandandre.com/
Episodes
Mentioned books

Feb 9, 2025 • 50min
C is for Consensual Non-Monogamy, Communication and ... Cookies!
Dive into the world of consensual non-monogamy, exploring various relationship styles from polyamory to swinging. Communication is highlighted as the backbone of successful non-monogamous relationships, filled with playful anecdotes and tips. Plus, discover the connection between cookies and polyamory—sweet surprises await! The hosts challenge traditional relationship labels, advocating for autonomy and self-awareness. Enjoy light-hearted discussions while tackling deeper topics like jealousy and health in intimate connections. It's a fun and informative journey!

Jan 28, 2025 • 33min
Debunking Common Myths About Polyamory
Ever had someone question your polyamorous or non-monogamous relationships—or share misconceptions about what polyamory really is? If you’re new to exploring non-monogamy, you might even find yourself wondering the same things!
In this episode, we bust five of the most common and persistent myths that have shaped public perceptions, created unnecessary fears, and discouraged people from exploring non-monogamous relationships—even when they know monogamy isn’t the right fit:
🚫 Polyamory is only about sex
🚫 Polyamorous people can’t commit or do the work of being in a monogamous relationship
🚫 Polyamory is unnatural
🚫 Polyamory always leads to jealousy
🚫 Polyamory is just a phase until you find the "right person" + if you truly loved someone, you wouldn’t need anyone else
We dive into why these myths simply aren’t true, sharing personal stories, real-life examples, and insights from our years of coaching, therapy practices, and lived experiences in the polyamorous community.
💡 Whether you’re poly-curious, have been practicing non-monogamy for years, or simply want to understand more about consensual non-monogamy, this episode is packed with eye-opening truths and valuable takeaways.
We’d love to hear your thoughts! If you’re listening on Spotify, drop us a comment. Join our Let's Talk Polyamory private Facebook group to ask questions, share your experiences, and connect with others.
🎧 Tune in now to debunk these myths and discover the truth about polyamory and non-monogamy!
Show Resources:
Let’s Talk Polyamory Facebook Group & Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/letstalkpoly
The Little Book of Poly Love - Join the list to be informed when it’s released - https://go.letstalkpolyamory.com/polylovebook-waitlist
Poly Newbies Digital Course - https://courses.letstalkpolyamory.com/polynewbiesspecialoffer
Sex at Dawn: The Prehistoric Origins of Modern Sexuality, by Christopher Ryan and Cacilda Jethá.
Looking for therapy? Reach out to host André Turcotte and book a consultation call at andreturcottepsych@gmail.com
Looking for coaching support? Book a consultation call with Tara - https://go.taraandandre.com/relationshiprescue

Jan 21, 2025 • 57min
B is for BISEXUALITY: Identity, Expressions, Myths & Realities
Dive into the multifaceted world of bisexuality, where identity and expression take center stage. The discussion uncovers common myths and stereotypes, highlighting the importance of visibility amidst societal misconceptions. Listeners will appreciate personal anecdotes about navigating relationships and the significance of self-definition. The conversation also touches on sexual pleasure, the nuances of communication, and the emotional challenges faced by bisexual individuals. With humor and insight, it’s a compelling exploration of love, identity, and acceptance.

Jan 13, 2025 • 39min
A is for Anorgasmia and How to Have Awesome Sexual Pleasure!
Dive into the fascinating world of anorgasmia, a condition more common than many realize! The conversation challenges the myth that orgasms are the only goal for pleasure, emphasizing the journey instead. Personal stories provide insight into the emotional aspects of intimacy and sexual self-advocacy. Communication is highlighted as key for enhancing pleasure, while unique family dynamics add a heartfelt touch. With humor and honesty, the hosts navigate the complexities of sexual desire and fulfillment.

Dec 17, 2024 • 49min
5 Steps to Have Holly Poly-Days and Start 2025 Feeling Secure
Who doesn't want to make their way through the holidays with ease and comfort and as little drama as possible?
The holiday season means time spent with friends, family and lovers. And it also can mean a few other things…
having to make tough choices on where to be and when to be there, WHO to be with?
having to deal with family members that don't necessarily agree with your relational choices or partner(s)
needing to de-stress & prioritize fun and sexy times in between all the holiday obligations
And if anything is feeling shaky in terms of your non-monogamy journey, the holidays can be, as André describes "miracle grow for your feelings" and amplify those issues making things stressful or uncomfortable.
In this podcast episode we talk in detail about 5 things you can do now to set your holidays up for success and start 2025 feeling much more secure:
Reflect on the past year
Conduct a thorough RAADAR Relationship Review to assess the health and dynamics of your relationships and connections using the
Do some pre-planning - the who, what, where, when, and how
Sharpen your effective communication skills and communicate your needs, wants and desires to partners
Prepare and build your toolkit and get direct or indirect support!
Interwoven in this discussion as always are a ton of gems of knowledge and stories from their personal experiences and those of friends and people we work with.
And if you're looking for holiday gift that keeps on giving for your partner and yourself that will allow you start 2025 feeling FAB-U-LOUS-LY SECURE, sign up for our 7-module Poly Newbies Digital Course! And don't worry about having to do it all right away, you'll have a full 6 months to get it all done! We have a special offer for our podcast listeners and Let's Talk Polyamory community. Find out more here - https://courses.letstalkpolyamory.com/polynewbiesspecialoffer
Show Resources:
Poly Newbies Digital Course - https://courses.letstalkpolyamory.com/polynewbiesspecialoffer
Open Relationship & Polyamory Mastery Program - https://go.taraandandre.com/polyamorymastery
Let’s Talk Polyamory Private Facebook Group & Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/letstalkpoly
Multiamory Podcast - https://www.multiamory.com/podcast
Fit Feels Good by Oonagh Duncan (the health and fitness program Tara is a part of) - https://www.fitfeelsgood.com/
Need support and curious about coaching or therapy? Book a consultation call with us: https://go.taraandandre.com/relationshiprescue
Find out more about us and services, programs and more at https://taraandandre.com/

Dec 2, 2024 • 23min
36: Your Poly Newbie Survival Kit Essentials
What essentials need to be in your Poly Newbie Survival Kit?Are you new to non-monogamy or opening up a relationship? In this episode, we’ll equip you with a list of the tools, insights, and strategies you need to thrive—and avoid some of the most common challenges along the way. These essential steps are drawn straight from our 7-module Poly Newbies Digital Course, designed to set you up for success:1️⃣ The Basics of Non-Monogamy: Key definitions, identifying your “why,” and navigating your hopes and fears.2️⃣ Choosing Your Style: Exploring what kind of non-monogamy aligns with your needs and desires.3️⃣ Mastering Communication: Building connection, eliminating toxic patterns, and speaking your truth effectively.4️⃣ Rightsizing Jealousy: Understanding this complex emotion and cultivating greater security.5️⃣ Attachment Styles: Discovering yours and moving toward secure attachment.6️⃣ Boundaries & Agreements: Creating personal boundaries and our signature Values-Based Relationship Agreements™.7️⃣ Keeping It Awesome: Relationship check-ins, dating tips, and maintaining the spark!✨ Plus, we dive into juicy extras, including:The stages of polyamory—from curious newbies to seasoned veterans.Whether there’s a “right” age to explore non-monogamy.Surprising challenges when opening up an already solid relationship.All this and personal stories from our own non-monogamy journey! 🎉Hit play and start your journey toward thriving in non-monogamy! 🎧💖Show Resources & Special Offers: Poly Newbies Digital Course Community Offer at $97 for 6 months of access - https://courses.letstalkpolyamory.com/polynewbiesspecialoffer Poly Diaries Docs-Series - Subscribe and listen to our diary entries and others at https://www.youtube.com/@PolyDiaries Looking for therapy? Reach out to host André Turcotte and book a consultation call at andreturcottepsych@gmail.com Have questions about our course or looking for private individual or couple’s coaching? Book a consultation call with host Tara at https://go.taraandandre.com/15mincoffeechat Join the Community: Connect will other polyamorous folk here - https://www.facebook.com/groups/letstalkpoly Learn more: Explore our services, programs and more at https://taraandandre.com/

Nov 26, 2024 • 55min
Building, Rebuilding, and Maintaining Trusts in Relationships - Part 2
When there's been dishonesty, a betrayal or cheating in a relationship, it can result in a loss of trust that's hard to recover from.
This episode is part 2 of a two part-series on Building, Rebuilding, and Maintaining Trusts in Relationships.
In Part 1, we explored:
What trust really is and why it’s essential
How to build a strong foundation of trust
Common trust challenges
And how to nurture and maintain trust.
In Part 2, we pick up where we left off with a recap on what trust is and how trust can be lost specifically in non-monogamous relationships.
We then share specific strategies on how you can rebuild trust as a result of any of these things or other setbacks such as:
Understanding the reasons behind the breach
Releasing anger and resentment
Rebuilding trust with consistent actions and words
Demonstrating commitment to repair the relationship
Communication
And getting support
We also share how you might recognize if is an isolated situation or if this person is not trustworthy and it isn’t in your best interest to trust them again.
This episode is perfect for anyone navigating trust challenges and looking for practical, compassionate advice to create more secure, resilient relationships.
And, in celebration of Polyamory Day on November 23 our gift to you is that you can get our Poly Newbies Digital Course for just $27—a 90% savings off the regular $297 price until Cyber Monday. Learn more at https://courses.letstalkpolyamory.com/polynewbiesblackfriday
Show Resources:
Black Friday Poly Newbies Digital Course Offer at $27 for 6 months of access - https://courses.letstalkpolyamory.com/polynewbiesblackfriday
Stream episode 32 Building, Rebuilding and Maintaining Trust in Relationship - Part 1 on Spotify hhttps://open.spotify.com/episode/77sWeDAKTKK2jAbTcZzOiQ?si=XhbvoPvQTpaGXdzycP0GJA or on your favourite podcasting platform.
Looking for therapy? Reach out to host André Turcotte and book a consultation call at andreturcottepsych@gmail.com
Looking for private individual or couple’s coaching? Book a consultation call with host Tara at: https://go.taraandandre.com/relationshiprescue
Join our online free Let’s Talk Polyamory Facebook Group & Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/letstalkpoly
Find out more about us and services, programs and more at https://taraandandre.com/

Nov 19, 2024 • 57min
Casual Car Conversations: STIs, Testing & Acceptable Risk
You may not find it surprising but we talk about non-monogamy, relationships, sex and related topics A LOT, especially when we are driving or travelling.
We were having one such conversation recently and decided to record it as we felt our listeners would find it helpful to hear as we work through and discuss a situation that arose for us personally around possible STI exposure and how we might handle sharing how we feel about upcoming plans with friends.
In this episode we cover:
The importance of regular testing and how often we get tested.
What you need to test for.
How you can contract certain STIs and how to reduce your risk.
The science behind testing frequency and the incubation periods for some common STIs
The concept of acceptable risk as it relates to sexual activities.
How to incorporate sexual health and STI testing into your relationship agreements.
How to share your personal boundaries around testing and agreements with possible partners.
We encourage you to do your own research, inform yourself, talk to your doctor, talk to your partners and figure out what’s right for you!
And as we asked during the podcast are these things you’ve considered and/or has this podcast changed what you think about wanting to be non-monogamous or in the lifestyle? Let us know in the comments!
Show Resources:
Black Friday Poly Newbies Digital Course Offer at $27 for 6 months of access - https://courses.letstalkpolyamory.com/polynewbiesblackfriday
Health Line article on STI incubation periods - https://www.healthline.com/health/how-long-does-it-take-for-std-to-show-up
Understanding Risk By Sex Act - CATIE - https://www.catie.ca/safer-sex-guide/understanding-risk-by-sex-act
T&A Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/taraandandre/
Looking for therapy? Reach out to host André Turcotte and book a consultation call at andreturcottepsych@gmail .com
Struggling and need support? Reach out and book a free call with us: https://go.taraandandre.com/relationshiprescue
Let’s Talk Polyamory Facebook Group & Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/letstalkpoly
Find out more about us and services, programs and more at https://taraandandre.com/

Nov 12, 2024 • 1h 17min
What to Say? How to Talk to Kids About Non-Monogamy, Sex, Kink and Other Stuff
Talking to kids about topics like non-monogamy, sex, intimacy, kink and relationships can sometimes feel daunting parents. It's easy to worry about saying the wrong thing, making things awkward, or just plain messing it up.
In this episode, we sit down with sexuality educator Ms. Ashley Robertson for a deep dive into guiding these conversations with kids of all ages—from toddlers to teens and beyond!
Together, we share practical tips, advice, and recommended approaches for discussing these topics at every stage. We cover what the focus should be, how to approach these subjects, which words to use, and even how long these conversations should go.
We also discuss what not to say, how to avoid oversharing, and ways to build a “scaffold” of knowledge that helps your kids climb layer by layer without falling off.
We touch on essentials like when and how to introduce non-monogamy and partners to kids, what to say if a partner is no longer in your life, and how to manage those moments when kids bring up people from your past that you’d rather forget. And we explore concepts like “chosen family,” the “onion” and “buffet” analogies, being an “askable adult,” consent and how kids are “bystanders”, the “skipping stones” strategy for teens and more!
Plus, we answer questions from our Let’s Talk Polyamory community.
And… spoiler alert ...a lot of these tips are great for adult conversations, too!
Tune in for practical advice, a few laughs, and all the insights you need to make these talks a little less intimidating and a lot more meaningful!
You’re going to love it!
Resources:
Black Friday Poly Newbies Digital Course Offer at $27 for 6 months of access - https://courses.letstalkpolyamory.com/polynewbiesblackfriday
Website Ms. Ashley Robertson: https://www.msashleyrobertson.com/
Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/msashleyrobertson
Ms. Ashely's booklist - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1WaZGbek31WYEbHcdPB3NJd4CKj5dIUhmjmmOL3zheAM/edit?usp=sharing - The 2 books mentioned in our conversation: Penny and the Plain Piece of Paper by Miri Leshem-Pell and Can I Give You a Squish? by Emily Neilson
DSM - Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. We specifically referred to the DSM-5 - This is an article that might be helpful - https://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/fetishes-and-dsm-v-when-is-kink-mental-health-issue-0829138
T&A Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/taraandandre/
Looking for therapy? Reach out to host André Turcotte and book a consultation call at andreturcottepsych@gmail.com
Let’s Talk Polyamory Facebook Group & Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/letstalkpoly
Find out more about us and services, programs and more at https://taraandandre.com/

Oct 28, 2024 • 1h 2min
Building, Rebuilding and Maintaining Trust in Relationships - Part 1
In this two-part series we take a deep dive into one of the most essential—and sometimes challenging—aspects of relationships: TRUST!
Recently many our the Let's Talk Polyamory private Facebook group and in our individual coaching and therapy practices have raised TRUST as an issue they are currently facing in their relationships.
For some it is because of a specific situation that occurred, like a betrayal, while for others, the issue of trust goes a bit deeper and stems from past experiences in relationships with previous partners, friends or family.
In this special series we explore the ins and outs of building, maintaining, and restoring trust, whether in monogamous or non-monogamous relationships.
In Part 1 we cover:
What is TRUST?
How people approach trust in relationships.
Signs of trust issues and what might be behind this for you.
How to build a foundation for trust in your relationships from the start.
How trust might be broken in relationships with some specific examples related to unique dynamics of non-monogamous relationships.
In Part 2, we will tackle the tough topic of rebuilding trust after it’s been lost.
Whether you’re looking to set up a rock-solid foundation or need tools to heal from trust setbacks in your relationship or yourself, this series has you covered.
This is the perfect starting point for anyone navigating trust challenges and looking for practical, compassionate advice to create more secure, resilient relationships.
Comment with your stories of trust or loss of trust and if this episode resonated with you!
Please 💖comment, ✅subscribe, ➡️share and 📝write a review so others can find us! We really appreciate it!
Show Resources:
Poly Newbies Digital Course - https://courses.letstalkpolyamory.com/polynewbiesspecialoffer
Struggling and need support? Reach out and book a free call with us: https://go.taraandandre.com/relationshiprescue
Let’s Talk Polyamory Private Facebook Group & Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/letstalkpoly
Find out more about us and services, programs and more at https://taraandandre.com/
Episode 27: From DADT To All the Juicy Details - https://open.spotify.com/episode/4nrCqhyEG4kWwUNyJoIKg0?si=8Q77o-L3Q7WvdSK6-qf33Q
Episode 8: How is My Attachment Style Impacting My Relationships - https://open.spotify.com/episode/3KUuTKZQKRNHBISBeynIvq?si=olltBVI7S6in5XPIwzMUAQ
Episode 3: Combating Jealousy and NRE with Awesome Communication - https://open.spotify.com/episode/4cRoyUXHdgpWMWlgAb3q8w?si=q3TPfFpOSzehJrCPx3BYxA


