How We Talk to Our Kids About Open Relationships

How do you explain non-traditional relationships to your children? In this thoughtful video, John and Jackie from OpenLove101.com open up about parenting while living an open lifestyle. With eight kids between them, they share how they’ve approached honest, age-appropriate conversations about love, trust, and relationship diversity—without oversharing or crossing boundaries. They emphasize the importance of transparency, emotional intelligence, and modeling values like honesty and integrity—regardless of relationship structure. If you’re a parent navigating how to talk to your kids about alternative lifestyles, this conversation offers reassurance, guidance, and real-world experience. 💬 Real talk. Respectful parenting. Healthy relationships. #OpenLove101 #ParentingAndRelationships #NonMonogamy #OpenRelationships #JohnAndJackie #HonestParenting #RelationshipTalk

Join hosts John and Jackie Melfi in this fun and revealing episode where they play "This or That: Lifestyle Edition"! The couple behind colette Swingers Clubs and the award-winning openlove101.com blog share their preferences on various aspects of open relationships and swinging.   In this candid discussion, John and Jackie answer questions about full swap vs soft swap, playing together vs separately, and much more. With over 13 years of experience in consensual non-monogamy, they offer valuable insights on jealousy, vulnerability, and how their preferences have evolved over time.   Whether you're curious about the lifestyle or looking to deepen your understanding of open relationships, this episode provides an entertaining and educational perspective from two experts in the field.   Key Topics Discussed: 0:00 - Introduction to Open Love 101 podcast 1:01 - Game explanation: "This or That" lifestyle edition 1:45 - Full swap vs soft swap preferences 2:00 - Playing together vs separately 3:20 - Spontaneous vs scheduled play 3:46 - How vulnerability affects relationships 4:44 - Meeting couples online vs at events 5:34 - Club vs resort preferences 7:07 - Same room vs separate rooms 8:03 - Processing feelings in the moment vs afterward 8:40 - Clear rules vs going with the flow 11:04 - Regular play partners vs one-timers 12:44 - Jealousy as a red flag vs growth opportunity 15:26 - Slow and sensual vs fast and wild 17:16 - Compersion as a must vs work in progress 21:01 - Home vs elsewhere preferences 22:02 - Playing with people they know vs strangers   Join the Conversation!   Like what you heard? Subscribe to our channel, hit the notification bell, and visit openlove101.com to sign up for our email list. You'll be notified of upcoming videos, articles, and events!   Don't forget to leave a comment below with your own "This or That" preferences or questions for John and Jackie. We'd love to hear your thoughts on the topics discussed!   #OpenLove101 #Swinging #NonMonogamy #ThisOrThat #RelationshipAdvice #ConsentualNonMonogamy #OpenRelationships

Jealousy in Open Relationships: Fix It or Ignore It? | John & Jackie | OpenLove101 What do jealousy and a broken refrigerator have in common? In this thoughtful video, John and Jackie from OpenLove101.com use a clever analogy to explore how people handle jealousy—whether they choose to fix it, ignore it, or live with it. Through personal stories and practical insights, they explain why open communication is essential in relationships, especially in non-monogamous dynamics. Instead of avoiding jealousy, they encourage viewers to see it as a signal for growth, intimacy, and deeper understanding. 💡 Learn how to turn discomfort into connection. #OpenLove101 #Jealousy #NonMonogamy #RelationshipAdvice #JohnAndJackie #EmotionalGrowth

Join hosts John and Jackie Melfi, the force behind colette Swingers Clubs and the award-winning blog openlove101.com, as they dive deep into relationship psychology with licensed professional counselor Dr. Alyssa Webb-McCune. This enlightening conversation explores various relationship models, from traditional monogamy to swinging and polyamory. Dr. Webb-McCune shares her expertise on building healthy relationships, navigating boundaries, and understanding the psychology behind different relationship styles. Whether you're curious about consensual non-monogamy or looking to strengthen your current relationship, this episode offers valuable insights for everyone!   Key Topics Discussed: [00:00:00] Introduction to the Open Love 101 podcast [00:01:15] Dr. Webb-McCune introduces her counseling practice and approach [00:03:48] The importance of discussing relationship models and expectations [00:06:30] Different relationship models explained [00:07:58] Differences between swinging and polyamory [00:14:15] Psychological differences in various relationship styles [00:19:26] Navigating societal judgment and professional risks [00:23:27] Top tips for healthy relationships [00:26:50] Views on sexuality across different relationship models [00:34:09] How different relationship models can complement each other [00:37:18] The importance of regular relationship evaluations   Dr. Webb-McCune's Top Relationship Tips: Maintain a low level of consistent communication about small issues Learn to advocate for yourself and your needs Conduct quarterly relationship evaluations to check in with your partner If you're interested in Dr. Webb-McCune's services, she offers traditional counseling through Natural Balance Counseling as well as relationship advisory programs through Mental Balance Coaching and Consulting.   Don't forget to like and subscribe,   Check out Dr. Alyssa Webb-McCune: https://www.naturalbalancecounseling.com/ https://www.facebook.com/Naturalbalancecounseling https://www.instagram.com/naturalbalancecounseling/   #OpenRelationships #ConsensualNonMonogamy #RelationshipAdvice #SwingLifestyle #Polyamory #RelationshipModels #CouplesTherapy

Can you feel joy when your partner finds happiness with someone else? In this video, John and Jackie from OpenLove101.com dive into the concept of compersion—the emotional opposite of jealousy—and how it can create deeper connection, trust, and personal growth in non-monogamous relationships. They share their own experiences, discuss challenges rooted in traditional relationship norms, and explain how compersion can reduce pressure, expand emotional freedom, and even strengthen primary partnerships. 💡 A must-watch for anyone exploring open love, emotional maturity, or new ways to connect with their partner. #OpenLove101 #Compersion #NonMonogamy #RelationshipTalk #JohnAndJackie #OpenRelationships

How to Reconnect After a Lifestyle Misstep In this heartfelt episode, John and Jackie dive deep into the emotional side of open relationships—exploring the joys, challenges, and growth that come from forming emotional connections beyond a primary partner. They share how maintaining friendships, embracing vulnerability, and communicating openly can actually strengthen the bond between partners. Jackie discusses how love isn't finite, and John reflects on how emotional openness has enriched their lives. Together, they challenge the idea that intimacy with others weakens a relationship—instead, they show how it can deepen trust, compassion, and connection. 💬 Real love expands. With openness and communication, emotional connection becomes a gift—not a threat. #OpenLove101 #EmotionalIntimacy #OpenRelationships #NonMonogamy #RelationshipTalk #JohnAndJackie #CommunicationAndTrust

Curious about exploring a swingers club but not sure how to bring it up with your partner? In this video, John and Jackie from OpenLove101.com share personal stories and thoughtful advice on approaching the lifestyle with someone who may feel hesitant. Filmed in New Orleans during Mardi Gras, they discuss common fears, misconceptions, and the importance of honest, pressure-free communication. Jackie opens up about her own early doubts—and how one visit changed her perspective. Whether you're just curious or considering taking that first step, this video offers guidance on creating a safe, respectful, and open conversation. #OpenLove101 #SwingersClub #RelationshipTalk #JohnAndJackie #CommunicationInRelationships

Curious about the secrets behind open relationship success? Ever thought about how boundaries and rules can transform your love life? Let’s explore it together! In this exciting episode, we chat with lifestyle coach Diana Ryan about what it takes to build trust, intimacy, and open communication in a consensual non-monogamous relationship. Whether you're navigating swinging, threesomes, or exploring the open lifestyle for the first time, this conversation is packed with valuable insights! Tune in to learn how boundaries differ from rules, how to handle unmet expectations, and why communication is the cornerstone of every healthy relationship—monogamous or not. Discover the role of consent, the importance of personal autonomy, and tips for thriving in lifestyle clubs or with swingers. Plus, we dive into how inclusivity and respect create safe spaces for everyone! Ready to level up your relationship? Hit subscribe for more honest discussions, guides, and tips on creating deeper connections. Join the conversation and start building the life you and your partner deserve! ❤️ #modernintimacy #sextherapistlosangeles #navigatingmaritalissues #maritalsatisfaction #selfhelp

Jealousy in Relationships: How to Talk About It | John & Jackie | OpenLove101 Jealousy isn’t just one emotion—it’s a mix of fear, anger, and vulnerability. In this video, John and Jackie from OpenLove101.com dive into the emotional complexity of jealousy and how couples can navigate it with open, honest communication. They share personal stories and explore how different people process jealousy in unique ways. Discover how understanding your emotional triggers—and embracing the idea of compersion (joy in your partner’s joy)—can actually strengthen your relationship. 💬 Learn how talking through tough emotions can create deeper trust and connection. #OpenLove101 #RelationshipAdvice #Jealousy #Communication #JohnAndJackie #Compersion

How Single Men Can Succeed in Swingers Clubs | Tips from John & Jackie | OpenLove101 Filmed during Mardi Gras in New Orleans, John and Jackie from OpenLove101.com dive into what single men need to know before stepping into swingers clubs like Colette. From respectful etiquette to building genuine connections, they offer practical advice for creating positive experiences in the lifestyle. Learn why starting with friendly conversation—not propositions—is key, how to approach couples with kindness, and why emotional intelligence goes a long way in forming both friendships and intimate connections. 💡 Real talk, real tips, and real respect. #OpenLove101 #SwingersEtiquette #LifestyleAdvice #JohnAndJackie #SingleMenInSwingersClubs