Navigating Polyamory: Insights from Blended Family Theory

In this episode, we are thrilled to welcome Dr Rosalyn Dischiavo—author, speaker, and founder of the Institute for Sexuality Education and Enlightenment. Dr. Dischiavo shares her innovative approach of applying stepfamily theory to polyamorous systems in transition, helping us understand the parallels between blended families and polycules. Together, we explore the complexities of polyamorous systems, the challenges of ongoing change, and what helps these relationships stabilize over time. Dr Rosalyn Dischiavo is the founder of the Institute for Sexuality Education and Enlightenment (ISEE) and past president of AASECT (American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists).

Jeremiah Gibson and Julia Postema, AASECT Certified Sex Therapists, explore the lasting impacts of purity culture, their personal journeys, and how they help clients reclaim sexual health and desire after religious trauma. Tune in for insights on navigating faith transitions, healing from shame, and embracing a sex-positive future.   Connect with Jeremiah and Julia: Substack: Relationship 101 Coaching Services: Let's Heal Together Podcast: Sexvangelicals Instagram: @sexvangelicals

In this episode, Rebecca and Kate dive into the nuanced world of ADHD and its impact on relationships. Drawing from both professional expertise and personal experience, they explore the complexities ADHD brings to partnerships, from executive functioning challenges to the emotional landscape shaped by shame, rejection sensitivity, and misunderstood behaviors. This conversation offers insights into navigating ADHD within relationships with compassion, understanding, and practical strategies.

Dr. Isabelle Morley, clinical psychologist and author of They’re Not Gaslighting You In this episode, Dr. Morley breaks down the misuse of therapy terms like gaslighting, narcissist, and trauma bonding. She explains what these words actually mean, why they are often misapplied, and how therapy speak can damage relationships. We also explore the difference between bad behavior and true emotional abuse, the impact of labeling in relationships, and why not every red flag means you should walk away. Get the Book: https://a.co/d/16SEwPh Follow Dr. Morley: @drisabellemorley If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend!

In this episode of the Love Lab Podcast, Kate and Rebecca welcome Deb Schachter and Whitney Otto, co-authors of the new book, Body Image Inside Out. With over 30 years of combined expertise in body image, eating disorder recovery, and coaching, Deb and Whitney share their transformative insights on breaking through the "glass ceiling" of body image healing. The conversation dives deep into how body image shapes our relationship with ourselves and others, the ways in which societal pressures and personal histories inform our perceptions, and how to move beyond acceptance to true self-connection. They also explore the intersection of body image and sexuality, revealing how deeply our ability to experience pleasure and intimacy ties into how we feel about our bodies. Resources https://debschachterlicsw.com/book/ https://whitneyottocoaching.com/book 

Exploring the Wheel of Consent In this episode, Kate and Rebecca dive into the transformative Wheel of Consent framework developed by Dr. Betty Martin. They break down the traditional linear view of consent and introduce listeners to a multidimensional, dynamic model that explores the nuanced interplay of giving, receiving, doing, and being done to. Resources Mentioned: - Dr. Betty Martin’s Wheel of Consent: https://www.schoolofconsent.org/downloads - The Three-Minute Game: A practical exercise to explore consent with your partner. How to play the 3-Minute Game www.lovelabuncensored.com

Rebecca and Kate welcome Sarah Harmon, founder of The School of Mom (Mothering Ourselves Mindfully), for a heartfelt discussion on navigating grief, ambiguous loss, and family dynamics—especially during the holidays. Sarah shares her personal journey of healing through mindfulness, self-compassion, and boundary-setting, offering practical insights for tending to our own needs in the face of challenging relationships. She also introduces her programs, Untethered and Flourish, which support women in finding balance and emotional resilience. Discover how to mother yourself mindfully and find peace in even the most difficult moments. Learn more at theschoolofmom.com.

In this episode, Kate and Rebecca dive into the often-awkward yet essential topic of talking to kids about sex. With honesty, warmth, and humor, they explore practical ways to approach these conversations while acknowledging the challenges many parents face. Whether you're navigating curiosity from a young child or anticipating the complexities of adolescence, this episode provides guidance on fostering open communication and building your child’s understanding of consent, boundaries, and body autonomy. Resources: It’s not the stork by Robbie Harris

In this episode, Rebecca and Kate welcome the incredible Dr. Holly Richmond, licensed marriage and family therapist, certified sex therapist, and author of Reclaiming Pleasure: A Sex-Positive Guide for Moving Past Sexual Trauma and Living a Passionate Life. Dr. Holly shares her groundbreaking approach to healing from sexual trauma through the integration of somatic psychology, sex positivity, and trauma therapy. Together, they explore what it means to move beyond surviving to thriving, the importance of rediscovering one's "yes" and "no," and how partners can best support survivors on their journey toward deeper connection and pleasure. Learn more about Dr. Holly's work: IG @drhollyrichmond Website: https://drhollyrichmond.com/ Resources & Links Mentioned: Dr. Holly Richmond’s book: Reclaiming Pleasure: A Sex-Positive Guide for Moving Past Sexual Trauma and Living a Passionate Life Emily Nagoski’s Come Together Esther Perel’s work on eroticism and connection Justin Lehmiller’s Tell Me What You Want (on fantasy)

In this episode, Rebecca and Kate dive deep into the complex and emotionally charged topic of affair recovery in relationships. From the initial shock and trauma of discovery to the challenging path of healing and rebuilding trust, they walk listeners through the nuanced stages of affair recovery. This conversation explores how couples can navigate the intense emotions of betrayal, the societal and personal pressures surrounding infidelity, and how to rebuild or rebirth a relationship. Whether you’re struggling with trust, shame, or wondering about the future of your relationship, this episode provides insights and actionable steps toward healing and growth.