Deconstructing Christian Nationalism with April Ajoy

In this episode, host Kristen Thomas interviews Pamela Merritt, the Executive Director of Medical Students for Choice, discussing the critical role of reproductive health education and access in the current political landscape. Pamela explains the organization's efforts to provide comprehensive reproductive healthcare education and training for medical students, the impact of recent legal and political shifts on abortion access, and the broader implications for healthcare and social justice. Pamela shares insights into the challenges faced by reproductive health providers and delves into the interconnectedness of reproductive rights and workers' rights. They wrap up the conversation by highlighting ways individuals can take action and support efforts to safeguard reproductive healthcare access and the need for awareness regarding digital privacy.     00:00 Introduction to Keep Them Coming 01:33 Meet Today's Guest: Pamela Merritt 03:28 Medical Students for Choice: Mission and Impact 06:20 The Political Landscape of Reproductive Healthcare 13:12 Challenges and Realities in Missouri 27:54 Reproductive Rights as Workers' Rights 29:55 Debunking Nostalgia: The Myth of Women's Roles in History 31:21 The Fight for Women's Rights and Economic Participation 32:49 The State's Role in Reproductive Rights and White Nationalism 36:19 The Reality of Abortion Access and Healthcare Policies 38:34 Plan C and Digital Privacy for Reproductive Health 42:03 Legal Risks and Protective Measures for Reproductive Rights 54:47 Supporting Medical Students for Choice and Future Access 56:38 Conclusion and Call to Action     Medical Students For Choice website: https://msfc.org/donate IG: https://www.instagram.com/msfchoice  Twitter: https://twitter.com/MSFC  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MSFChoice/  Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/msfchoice.bsky.social   Mentioned in the episode: Search the internet AFTER you've secured your search history: https://activistchecklist.org/  Euki period planner app: https://eukiapp.org/  Plan C Pills: https://www.plancpills.org/  Palema's Substack post after the Dobbs decision: https://pamelamerrittsharkfu.substack.com/p/postmortem?r=1ih6l8&triedRedirect=true     Thanks for listening! XOXO Kristen ______________________________ Support my work by becoming a Patron on Patreon: patreon.com/coach_kristen      Check out all the affiliates and discounts I have with quality sexual health companies like Intimate Rose and Bathmate: https://www.openthedoorscoaching.com/affiliates   Learn more about my coaching services : openthedoorscoaching.com Book an information session: https://rebrand.ly/TalkToKristen Dirty Bird e-newsletter: https://zc.vg/sf/vfMdv SFW e-newsletter: https://zc.vg/081sd Be on Keep Them Coming: https://forms.gle/g8CB2z61Vep9h3XQ8 Want your question answered?  https://forms.gle/xNBLKCcUy75h97nZ8 Hire me to speak at your event: https://rebrand.ly/Hire_Coach_Kristen   Read my column in The Pitch Magazine: https://www.thepitchkc.com/tag/keep-them-coming/     TikTok  https://www.tiktok.com/@coachkristen YouTube https://youtube.com/@openthedoorscoaching Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/coachkristen.bsky.social LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/coach-kristen-thomas/

How can kissing save your relationship? Addressing both cultural and biological aspects, Coach Kristen explains how kissing releases bonding hormones affects the body, enhances mood, and reduces stress. She also discusses how kissing can be a tool for assessing long-term compatibility.      00:00 Introduction: The Power of Kissing 00:56 The Science Behind Kissing 01:49 Kissing in Modern Dating 02:38 Kissing in Long-Term Relationships 03:57 Tips to Become a Better Kisser 05:27 Personal Stories   Thanks for listening! XOXO Kristen   February Pitch column: Pucker Up, Buttercup   Support my work by becoming a Patron on Patreon: patreon.com/coach_kristen      Check out all the affiliates and discounts I have with quality sexual health companies like Intimate Rose and Bathmate: https://www.openthedoorscoaching.com/affiliates   You can use my code “BVCA5OTDC” at checkout to get 20% off your entire purchase at b-Vibe! Use it on: www.bvibe.com/, www.bvibe.com/ or www.lewandmassager.com/   Learn more about my coaching services : openthedoorscoaching.com Book an information session: https://rebrand.ly/TalkToKristen Dirty Bird e-newsletter: https://zc.vg/sf/vfMdv SFW e-newsletter: https://zc.vg/081sd Be on Keep Them Coming: https://forms.gle/g8CB2z61Vep9h3XQ8 Want your question answered?  https://forms.gle/xNBLKCcUy75h97nZ8 Hire me to speak at your event: https://rebrand.ly/Hire_Coach_Kristen   Read my column in The Pitch Magazine: https://www.thepitchkc.com/tag/keep-them-coming/     TikTok  https://www.tiktok.com/@coachkristen YouTube https://youtube.com/@openthedoorscoaching Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/coachkristen.bsky.social Discord: https://discord.gg/uskVndTM LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/coach-kristen-thomas/      

Waking up one day and wondering if you're upholding Christian Nationalism is not an easy position to find oneself.  April Ajoy shares her transformative journey from a fundamentalist Christian upbringing to questioning how her faith could include embracing a more inclusive worldview. They discuss the intersections of faith, politics, and sexuality, particularly in the context of Christian nationalism and purity culture. April reflects on her journey from away right wing extremism via the impact of a a deep personal loss, a few loved one's coming out stories, and the challenges of navigating relationships and sexuality as an adult. Their conversation highlights the importance of self-discovery, the dangers of religion seeking power, and the need for open discussions about sexuality and consent, especially for practicing Christians. TW: brief discussion of sexual assault - see the chapters for the timing.  April Ajoy's information: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aprilajoy/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aprilajoy Get a copy of Star-Spangled Jesus https://tr.ee/KOqRtqhQEc    Chapters 00:00 Introduction to April Ajoy and Her Journey 06:50 Leaving Christian Nationalism Behind 09:50 The Impact of Personal Loss on Faith 10:42 Political Awakening and the Trump Era 15:39 Understanding Christian Nationalism 19:43 The Intersection of Faith and LGBTQ+ Issues 24:41 Coming out close to home 27:13 The Role of Consent in Purity Culture 32:14 TW: Mention of SA 34:42 Reclaiming Autonomy and Sexuality 42:35 Unlearning that "sex is bad" isn't like flipping a light switch 46:06 The Intersection of Purity Culture and Christian Nationalism 52:58 The Dangers of Christian Nationalism today 55:00 Ask Coach Kristen Anything - Do you think DT and Melania still have sex?    Thanks for listening! XOXO Kristen   Support my work by becoming a Patron on Patreon: patreon.com/coach_kristen      Check out all the affiliates and discounts I have with quality sexual health companies: https://www.openthedoorscoaching.com/affiliates   Learn more about my coaching services : openthedoorscoaching.com Book an information session: https://rebrand.ly/TalkToKristen Dirty Bird e-newsletter: https://zc.vg/sf/vfMdv SFW e-newsletter: https://zc.vg/081sd Be on Keep Them Coming: https://forms.gle/g8CB2z61Vep9h3XQ8 Want your question answered?  https://forms.gle/xNBLKCcUy75h97nZ8 Hire me to speak at your event: https://rebrand.ly/Hire_Coach_Kristen   Read my column in The Pitch Magazine: https://www.thepitchkc.com/tag/keep-them-coming/   TikTok  https://www.tiktok.com/@coachkristen YouTube https://youtube.com/@openthedoorscoaching Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/coachkristen.bsky.social Discord: https://discord.gg/uskVndTM LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/coach-kristen-thomas/    

Having trouble navigating the gray abyss of a mediocre relationship? Worried you've fallen into a tolerable level of permanent unhappiness? In this episode of 'Keep Them Coming', Kristen shares and analyzes Reddit posts about long-term relationships stuck in mediocrity, offering strategies and advice on how to navigate tough decisions. Kristen introduces the 'three doors' option for dealing with relationship dissatisfaction. Through reflective examples and practical tips, she emphasizes the importance of direct communication, setting boundaries, and prioritizing personal growth post-breakup. The episode wraps up with actionable advice on moving forward and finding happiness after a split. 00:00 Introduction to Keep Them Coming 01:21 Navigating Mediocre Relationships 03:56 The Three Doors Decision-Making Tool 06:26 Reddit Relationship Dilemmas 11:43 Breaking Up with Respect and Clarity 14:51 Moving On and Personal Growth 17:54 Conclusion and Support   Thanks for listening! XOXO Kristen   Become a Patron on Patreon! This helps me produce high quality educational content like this podcast.   patreon.com/coach_kristen  Check out all the affiliates and discounts I have with quality sexual health companies like Intimate Rose and Bathmate: https://www.openthedoorscoaching.com/affiliates   Learn more about my coaching services : openthedoorscoaching.com Book an information session: https://rebrand.ly/TalkToKristen Dirty Bird e-newsletter: https://zc.vg/sf/vfMdv SFW e-newsletter: https://zc.vg/081sd Be on Keep Them Coming: https://forms.gle/g8CB2z61Vep9h3XQ8 Want your question answered?  https://forms.gle/xNBLKCcUy75h97nZ8 Hire me to speak at your event: https://rebrand.ly/Hire_Coach_Kristen   TikTok  https://www.tiktok.com/@coachkristen YouTube https://youtube.com/@openthedoorscoaching Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/coachkristen.bsky.social LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/coach-kristen-thomas/

In this episode of Keep Them Coming, host Kristen Thomas discusses the film Babygirl with The Pitch Magazine's Film Editor Abby Olcese. *SPOILERS AHEAD!* Kristen and Abby discussed the themes of sexuality, relationships, and the complexities of female desire, particularly in the context of a woman's awakening to her needs and wants. It explores the portrayal of dom-sub relationships and the generational differences in expectations and standards for men and women in power.    Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Keep Them Coming 01:22 Exploring the Film Babygirl 09:22 Character Dynamics and Themes 12:03 Sexual Awakening and Relationships 20:49 Generational Perspectives on Sexuality 27:22 Communication and Desire in Relationships 31:12 Cinematic Representation of Female Desire 35:42 Soft Launch of Relationships 36:30 Discretion and Awareness in Relationships 37:25 Portrayal of Dom-Sub Dynamics 38:52 Exploring Boundaries and Safety 39:50 Character Development and Submissive Energy 41:41 Wealth and Class Dynamics 44:32 Chemistry and Age Gap Dynamics 45:57 Power Dynamics 47:50 Agency and Sexual Compatibility 49:39 Communication in Relationships 52:46 Changing Desires and Growth 55:02 Standards for Women vs. Men 56:59 Generational Differences in Power Dynamics 01:00:18 Cultural Commentary on Sexuality 01:02:08 Final Reflections on Relationships 01:04:21 Ask Coach Kristen Anything   Find Abby on Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/abbyolcese.bsky.social  or Letterbox IndieAbby   Kristen's Links Website: openthedoorscoaching.com  TikTok  https://www.tiktok.com/@coachkristen YouTube https://youtube.com/@openthedoorscoaching Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/coachkristen.bsky.social Discord: https://discord.gg/uskVndTM   Support my Patreon to help me produce high quality, educational content across platforms: patreon.com/coach_kristen

Summary In this episode, Kristen Thomas explores the phenomenon of 'divorce season' in January, discussing the reasons behind the spike in divorce filings during this month. She delves into the emotional and societal factors contributing to this trend, including the impact of the political climate on relationships. Kristen also addresses common myths surrounding divorce, such as the misconception that it comes as a surprise to those involved. Finally, she offers practical advice for those considering divorce, emphasizing the importance of emotional support and legal guidance.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Keep Them Coming 01:22 Understanding Divorce Season 04:04 The Impact of Politics on Relationships 07:27 Debunking Myths About Divorce 10:10 Navigating the Divorce Process 13:29 Closing   Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@openthedoorscoaching Website: openthedoorscoaching.com  TikTok  https://www.tiktok.com/@coachkristen Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/coachkristen.bsky.social Discord: https://discord.gg/uskVndTM Flowpage: https://flow.page/coachkristen  

Would you believe that most people are not wearing the right bra for them? Coach Kristen interviews Emily Elizabeth, the owner of Circadian Intimates, a lingerie shop in KC. They discuss Emily's journey into the lingerie industry, the importance of proper bra fitting, and the impact of well-fitted lingerie on confidence. Emily shares insights on the evolving lingerie industry, including size and fit inclusivity, and offers practical shopping tips for partners.   RSVP for their Holiday Fashion Show: https://circadianintimates.com/blogs/about-circadian-intimates/youre-invited-circadian-intimates-holiday-lingerie-fashion-show   Topics include: Emily’s Journey into the lingerie industry The importance of proper bra fitting Inclusivity in the industry Exploring kinks and fetishes through lingerie And advice for partners shopping for the holidays or special occasions   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to my guest, info on upcoming events 06:07 Emily's Journey into the Lingerie Industry 11:50 Proper Bra Fitting 18:30 Bra Donation Program  21:40 Evolving Lingerie Industry Size Inclusivity 26:29 Comfort in Lingerie Shopping 32:11 Holiday Lingerie Shopping 35:54 Exploring Confidence and Self-Expression  38:19 Approaching Strangers 49:54 Diverse Options for Every Budget and Style in Lingerie   Book a session https://rebrand.ly/TalkToKristen Want to be a guest? https://forms.gle/g8CB2z61Vep9h3XQ8

Do you wish you had more confidence when it comes to role play? Worry that you’re not creative enough to have an exciting and easy experience? Coaches Julia and Kristen are going to set your mind at ease.    Topics include: Role play preparedness Key elements of negotiation Use media or tools like Faithful Fling to help you Read "Familiar Stranger", this month's Keep Them Coming column via The Pitch.    Julia Satterlee is a Clinical Sexologist dedicated to kicking shame out of the bedroom and sparking joyful intimacy. Since 2019, she has been coaching couples, men, and women, championing pleasure and connection as essential, not optional. Julia’s work revolves around exploring and expressing needs, desires, and boundaries in a judgment-free environment. Her approach combines self-love strategies, effective communication techniques, and myth-busting insights into sex and intimacy—all with a dose of fun.   Find her here: https://pleasure-wise.com/ tinyurl.com/pleasurepractice @pleasure.wise Instagram @sexistentialcoach Facebook   Email me at [email protected] for questions, topic suggestions for future episodes, or to book your first session. 

Amanda Vee is the creator of Sex Talks With Amanda and Embodied Sexual Power. She brings over a decade of experience and expertise as an accredited fitness professional and Behavioral Change Specialist. She’s a Certified Sex Coach and Clinical Sexologist, Certified Life Coach, and faculty at Sex Coach U. After leaving a twenty-year relationship and moving across the country during the pandemic, Amanda pivoted her career to fully embrace her passion for helping people create the sex lives that they really want.  She identifies as polyamorous and heteroflexible and she discussed what apps she’s had success with while dating as a nonmonogamous person. Amanda lived a fantastic slut era but also spent time with celibacy to understand more about herself.    Topics discussed: Sexual health month and positive relationships  Sexual and romantic spectrums in honor of National Bisexuality Day. Exploration and labels The relationship escalator Dating as a couple and unicorn hunting When and where to be open - small towns vs cities, safety and stigma considerations The Ask Coach Kristen Anything got pretty spicy 🌶️🥵    Submit your questions to: https://forms.gle/xNBLKCcUy75h97nZ8  

Have you ever wanted to get more sex education but have no interest in talking to a coach directly?  Did you have a belief that your sex life should be amazing always, only to find that it's a really difficult expectation to live up to? This episode is dedicated to everyone who would like more sex education but could not imagine themselves reaching out to work with a coach personally. I get it... It's awkward! Maybe it's just not for you, maybe there's an accessibility issue.   That is why you'll enjoy this conversation with my guest Mariah Freya. She is the founder of Beducated. She's making a global impact by making sex education accessible.  In this episode: What should your kids know from you about sexual health? You are their first teacher! What is the sexual lifeline? Our thoughts on people who try to discourage sexual health education.   Listen until the end for a discount code on a Beducated subscription! Also - Happy Sexual Health Month! XOXO Kristen