From Monogamish to Somatic Therapy: A 2024 Mid-Year Podcast Review

Episode 107:
From Monogamish to Somatic Therapy: A 2024 Mid-Year Podcast Review

In this mid-year review episode of the Relationship Diversity Podcast, I provide a comprehensive overview of the first 25 episodes of 2024, covering a wide array of topics related to relationship diversity. These include somatic therapy, overcoming rejection, non-monogamous relationship structures, and the importance of community and authenticity in diverse relationships. I also reflect on key milestones, such as surpassing 10,000 downloads and publishing the 100th episode. The episode aims to make it easier for listeners to find specific episodes of interest, offering quick recaps and insights from various guest experts. 

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00:00 Introduction to Biannual Reviews

00:33 Welcome to the Relationship Diversity Podcast

01:23 Reflecting on 2024 Milestones

02:20 Mid-Year Episode Highlights

03:45 -27:56 Episodes 81-106 Recaps

27:57 Closing thoughts

This is Relationships Reimagined.

Join the conversation as we dive into a new paradigm of conscious, intentional and diverse relationships.

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Podcast Music by Zachariah Hickman

Transcript

Carrie Jeroslow: 0:00

These biannual reviews are meant to make it easy for you to find what you need quickly, to give you the resources that may not solve your challenges completely, but that could set you on the path to more clarity and understanding. Maybe you're interested in learning about solo polyamory or curious about shifting your monogamous relationship to something more monogamish. Maybe you're a new parent who's experiencing a change in your relationship and don't fully understand what's going on. You can jump right to those episodes to learn more about those topics. Welcome to the Relationship Diversity Podcast, where we celebrate, question and explore all aspects of relationship structure diversity from soloramory to monogamy, to polyamory and everything in between, because every relationship is as unique as you are. We'll bust through societal programming to break open and dissect everything we thought we knew about relationships, to ask the challenging but transformational questions who am I and what do I really want in my relationships? I'm your guide, keri Jaroslow, bestselling author, speaker, intuitive and coach. Join me as we reimagine all that our most intimate relationships can become. Does anyone else feel like 2024 is flying by? How are we already six months into this year? It feels like just yesterday that I was ringing in the new year with intentions as to where I wanted to take this podcast, goals I wanted to reach and topics I wanted to explore, and I hit some big milestones in the first half of this year. I met and quickly passed 10,000 downloads. I published my 100th episode. I connected with guests that I've wanted to have on the podcast. Since I started, the podcast has been listened to in over 80 countries and 1300 cities. I'm continually learning from every guest I have on and every topic I research. This education is helping me personally and helping my relationships evolve and grow and get better and better all the time. So if you're just joining in and wanting to explore the full catalog of episodes and information but don't have the time, so if you're just joining in and wanting to explore the full catalog of episodes and information but don't have the time to scroll through all 105 episodes, I do this mid-year and end-of-year review where I quickly talk through the past six months of episodes. This way, you can take 20 minutes or so and listen to this and then jump right to the episode that will help you the most in this moment. Maybe you're dealing with rejection and can learn from Janice Holland about how she overcame the betrayal of rejection. Maybe you're a new parent who's experiencing a change in your relationship and don't fully understand what's going on. My guest, markella Kaplani, has some answers for you. On. My guest, markela Kaplani, has some answers for you. Maybe you're interested in learning about solo polyamory or curious about shifting your monogamous relationship to something more monogamish. You can jump right to those episodes to learn more about those topics. These biannual reviews are meant to make it easy for you to find what you need quickly, to give you the resources that may not solve your challenges completely, but that could set you on the path to more clarity and understanding. I'll also tag my other mid-year and end of year reviews in the show notes if you want to explore my earlier episodes. So here we go.

Carrie Jeroslow: 3:41

My 2024 mid-year review, starting with episode 81, your Body Never Lies how Somatic Therapy Releases Trauma and Past Wounding with Dedeker Winston and Orit Krug. Do you feel like you've been working on your stuff for years and yet you can't seem to release old hurt and trauma? Have you listened to hours after hours of podcasts, read a bookshelf full of books and yet still feel uncomfortable in a diverse relationship dynamic, even if it's the one you really want? In this enlightening conversation with Dedeker and Orit, we learn why somatic therapy may be the thing that moves you closer to a more fulfilling, happier relationship experience. We deep dive into the intricacies of somatic therapy and how it helps release trauma and build resilience. We also explore the profound effects of survival responses on relationships and how healing these wounds can lead to more fulfilling, desired connections. If you're struggling with being in your head too much and it doesn't seem to be getting to the core of your blocks, check this episode out.

Carrie Jeroslow: 4:55

Episode 82, the hidden message behind relationship discomfort. A certain level of relationship discomfort is normal in intimate relationships. When faced with an argument or disagreement, the nervous system gets activated and many people instinctively choose to fight or run away. But what if there was a different way to look at those moments? What if there was a way to reframe the arguments that will contribute to your evolution and growth? Discover a fresh perspective on relationship challenges in this episode. So, whether you're single, monogamous or any kind of non-monogamous, or practicing a relationship structure completely unique to you and the people involved, this episode explores the beauty hidden in disagreements. Check it out to learn actionable, practical steps to turn discomfort into fulfillment.

Carrie Jeroslow: 5:49

Episode 83, overcoming the Betrayal of Rejection Lived Experiences with Janice Holland. Join me in this episode as I talk with Janice Holland, who's a licensed professional counselor. She shares her incredible story of growing up in an ultra-religious community and how this contributed to an emotionally manipulative marriage. Her candid recount of the pain caused by mismatched sexual desires and the perceived betrayal within her relationship not only sheds light on the damaging impact of purity culture, but also offers hope and guidance for those dealing with similar issues. Janice's path of healing from betrayal to freedom is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. She reflects on her intense emotions that accompany the end of her marriage, the delicate balance of community and isolation, and the strategies that guided her towards understanding and forgiveness. Most people have felt rejection, regardless of what relationship structure they're practicing. Janice's inspirational journey will give you tips on moving through the betrayal that might have come from the rejection.

Carrie Jeroslow: 7:05

Episode 84, how to spot red and green flags in your relationship with guest expert Helen Snape. Have you ever felt like you were wearing a mask displaying a fake smile just to keep the peace? Helen Snape, who is an award-winning healthy relationship coach, joins me to unravel the complexities behind our emotional facades and guides us towards authenticity and self-love. We tackle tough questions around unmet needs, people-pleasing tendencies and the necessity of setting boundaries. Helen introduces us to incredibly helpful tools such as the Regulating Resources Sandwich, designed to help navigate the emotional landscape of difficult conversations. We talk about the importance of recognizing red and green flags, highlighting how incremental sharing and vulnerability can deepen our bonds.

Carrie Jeroslow: 8:02

Episode 85, how to live life on your own terms with relationship coach Randy Robbins. Have you ever felt like you're living by someone else's script, especially in your relationship? This is really common when you're starting to explore alternative relationship structures. So in this episode I talk with Randy and our conversation goes in so many places. It sheds light on challenging societal norms, conquering shame, the courage required to live authentically, the complexities of coming out in various areas of your life and the tailored support required for individuals and groups navigating these unique challenges of non-traditional relationships.

Carrie Jeroslow: 8:50

Episode 86, busting Through Relationship Programming to Experience Cosmic Love with Nikki Manavi as part of my lived experience series. In this episode I talk with Nikki about her non-traditional relationship with her cosmic soul partner, johnny. We talk about the wonders of non-traditional relationships that don't fit into any box. Nikki shares her encounter with her soul friend, johnny that catapulted her beyond conventional labels and into the realm of energetic dimensions that redefine fulfillment and identity. She went on an evolutionary inner journey into the depths of all of her relationship beliefs and programming and she shares it all with us. This is Diverse Relationships on an entirely new level.

Carrie Jeroslow: 9:41

Episode 87, all about play parties with Shea Jennings. Have you ever wondered what play parties are like? Join my awesome guest, shea Jennings, co-founder of Friends with Benefits and Gaze, as she gives you a 101 course all about play parties, what they are, all the different kinds of parties, how to find one, how to prepare for your first one, as well as how to create an aftercare plan. We talk about how people in diverse relationship structures can get the most out of the experience. So, regardless of if you're monogamous, solo, amorous solo, poly or non monogamous, play parties have something for everyone and even though there's a lot of stigma around play parties, they are many times about connection, curiosity, exploration, fun and, yes, a great workout.

Carrie Jeroslow: 10:42

Episode 88, the importance of finding a resonant community with Noah Elon of Plora, formerly known as Bloom Community. Do you feel your relationships are coloring outside of the lines of societal norms? You are not alone. Join me as I sit down with Noah Elon, the visionary CEO of Plora, again formerly known as Bloom Community for a heart-to-heart conversation about the importance of cultivating a resonant community. Noah opens up about her own experiences, shedding light on what it means to truly belong and how platforms like Plura are creating safe havens for those traversing the less trodden paths of personal connection. In so many episodes I talk about how community is so important when you feel alone on your path, especially if no one around you understands or is even open to having compassionate conversations. This episode could be information that can really help bring you more light and brightness into your life and help you to feel a part of a bigger community.

Carrie Jeroslow: 11:45

Episode 89, dismantling your debilitating inner critic. There's a voice inside of us that can be both a relentless critic and an encouraging coach. It's a complex presence that I know all too intimately about. So join me in this episode as I share how this internal commenter has both driven me to succeed and left me second guessing my every single move. When we're embarking on a new journey into relationship diversity, this inner voice can take rare form, becoming judge and jury of our every move. But if we can bring the inner critic into our awareness, create a little distance to see what it needs and then shift it to become a voice that helps us grow and evolve. Then we will embrace all of the beneficial aspects it has to offer. So in this episode, I expose this inner critic and help to recalibrate its inner dialogues. Turning self-criticism into self-care.

Carrie Jeroslow: 12:51

Episode 90, uncovering Generational Relationship Wounds and Holistic Healing with Jaden Auburn. What an amazing conversation this one was. I have the pleasure of talking with Jaden Auburn, a trailblazing psychotherapist whose insights into intentional living challenge the norms of relationships we talk about so much in this episode. All of their information is tied to the methodology of holistic healing looking at our whole self, not as separate parts, but as a complex person made up of so many aspects interwoven into one. Some of the topics we discuss are generational influence on our emotional landscape, holistic healing and what our poo says about our emotional state, the intersection of gender and relationship diversity, what our emotions are trying to tell us, how to choose intentional living as opposed to default living, and so much more. You don't want to miss this one.

Carrie Jeroslow: 13:49

Episode 91, the metamorphosis of intimate relationships for new and seasoned parents with Markella Kaplani. Have you ever wondered how the rollercoaster of parenthood can redefine who we are and the fabric of our closest relationships. In this Heart to Heart with Parenting and Relationship Counselor Markela Kaplani, we peel back the layers of emotions and psychological adjustments that come with a passage into parenthood. Markela, with her dual experience in couples counseling and child psychology, offers profound insights into the transformation known as matrescence and its ripple effects within the family unit. Parenting is no small feat. I know this from experience, and this episode brings to light the stark contrast between societal narratives and the real lived experiences of new parents. From identity loss to the myth of maternal fulfillment, we tackle the hard truths about the expectations placed on parents and the need for authentic support systems. If you are a new parent or a seasoned parent, this episode will give you lots to think about and ideas to bring more connection and awareness into your parenting journey.

Carrie Jeroslow: 15:05

Episode 92, deepening Connections Through Roadplay with Sexologist Eros. Have you ever found yourself feeling a void from casual sex? My special guest, certified sexologist Eros, joins me to reveal her journey from an early sexual awakening to an empowering post-divorce self-discovery. Embarking on a sensual exploration of sexuality, eros explores all the aspects of shibari, a rope technique from Japan. We talk about how you can shift casual sex encounters from empty to an experience filled with intentionality and care. We highlight the importance of Shabari as an art, meditation, therapy and path to erotic pleasure, and how it challenges conventional beliefs about sex and pleasure. She also gives real-life tips to make your own sexual encounters more meaningful and gives you a new perspective on the powerful connections possible through respectful Episode 93, what Makes Polyamory Work.

Carrie Jeroslow: 16:15

Part 1, with Libby Sinback. This episode is super special to me. I got to have a conversation with my friend, libby Sinback, a relationship coach and host of Making Polyamory Work. This was a heart-to-heart talk with my friend, the insightful Libby. Inspired by her and wanting to include everything we talked about, I broke this conversation into two episodes. In this part, part one, we share our personal experiences about relationships, healing, leaning into discomfort and so much more. Libby also shares her past experiences with her own journey into polyamory. Libby has so much experience personally and with the thousands of clients she's worked with individually and through her group program, and she brings her wisdom to this episode. This is another one you don't want to miss. And then episode 94, which is what makes polyamory work. Part two, again with Libby, and in this part two of my conversation we dive deep into Libby's experience with these questions what makes polyamory work and what makes polyamory not work? Her insightful answers will really open your mind to new ways of looking at your relationships, whether you're polyamorous or practicing some other kind of structure.

Carrie Jeroslow: 17:36

Episode 95, the monogamous programming in our world runs deep. Have you ever found yourself questioning this long-held belief that monogamy is a one-size-fits-all solution to love and commitment? In this solo episode, I peel back the mononormative curtain that has shrouded society's views on relationships for centuries and dive into the stigmatization and stereotypes facing those who choose to love differently. I challenge the misleading narrative suggesting that growth is exclusive to monogamy and instead celebrate the personal evolution that occurs across all forms of relationships, and I share my insights from my own ongoing journey of unlearning mononormative views, inviting you yes, you, my friend to reconsider and reshape the way you think about forming deep, lasting bonds.

Carrie Jeroslow: 18:35

Episode 96, wisdom from our Polyamorous Elders with Susan Bratton, part one. This is another conversation that I broke up into two parts because there was just too much juiciness to cut anything. So in this episode, which is part one of my conversation with the amazing Susan Bratton, an intimacy expert, author and polyamory advocate, we dive into the concept of values, elicitation from NLP, the transition from a sexless to a fulfilling sexual life and the significance of radical honesty in relationships. Susan shares insights and advice from polyamorous elders on safe and honest relationship practices. The episode brings a rich discussion on enhancing intimate connections through better communication and understanding each other's unique relationship values. This conversation was so much fun. I think you will so love listening to it, because not only is it fun, but it was filled with incredible information and ways to find more fulfillment in your relationship. And then episode 97, which is part two of my conversation with Susan Bratton, who is an intimacy expert to millions. She knows what she's talking about. She goes deeper in this episode into the wisdom that she's gained from her polyamorous elders, and she shares these insights from her own decades-long experience in diverse relationships. She encourages you to own your needs, become good schedulers, practice honesty and get regular STI testing as fundamental poly principles. The episode also explores the evolving nature of relationships and what Susan envisions for the future of polyamory and non-traditional relationships. For those struggling with their relationships, this episode offers actionable insights on better understanding and communicating needs.

Carrie Jeroslow: 20:38

Episode 98, the tension between authenticity and belonging in diverse relationships. Drawing from the wisdom of thought leaders like Gabor Mate, I look at this complex dance of attachment and authenticity that defines our interactions and self-concept. We all have an innate need to belong and yet we also have a profound desire to express our individuality. These are many times at odds, but what if they could support each other? What if they could support each other? So in this solo episode, I explore small steps you can take to learn who you are and embrace your authenticity day by day, while also delicately balancing your need to fit in, belong and connect. And, of course, we do this through the lens of relationship diversity.

Carrie Jeroslow: 21:30

Episode 99, the intersection between race and non-Monogamy with Dr Christopher Smith. This episode features a look into the intersectionality of race and ethical non-monogamy with Dr Christopher Smith. Dr Smith, an equity advisor, diversity expert and adjunct faculty member, shares their journey and insights into supporting underrepresented relationship communities. The conversation is amazing I learned so much from Chris and it covers the challenges African-American non-monogamous individuals face, including racial, economic and intergroup discrimination, as well as phobias around sexuality and gender identity. The discussion also touches on the history of non-monogamous structures, the impact of religious and societal programming and the need for more inclusive support systems in academia, local and federal governments and beyond.

Carrie Jeroslow: 22:30

And episode 100. Woo-woo, celebrating 100 episodes, reflections, intentions and a giveaway. In the 100th episode of the Relationship Diversity Podcast, I reflect on the journey of the podcast and exploration of relationship structure diversity. This was such a personal milestone and one that I had visioned from the moment I pressed record on episode 001. So in this episode I talk about how the podcast started and how it's going. I hold myself to task to see if I am really holding true to the vision that I spoke about in episode one from September of 2022.

Carrie Jeroslow: 23:16

Episode 101, exploring the World of Solo Polyamory. In this episode, I go into the concept of solo polyamory. I discuss the integration of autonomy and independence in multiple romantic relationships, common misconceptions and how the solo poly structure fosters personal growth and emotional fulfillment. I also provide ways you can use to determine if this unique relationship style aligns with your values and how to communicate it effectively to potential partners. Episode 102, the Art of Non-Monogamous Matchmaking Insights from Matchmaker Daniela Guimaraes. In this episode, I talk with pioneering matchmaker Daniela Guimaraes, the founder of Velvet Ties, who shares her innovative approach to matchmaking, where transparency, openness and intimacy are at the forefront. Whether you're curious about non-monogamy, exploring it yourself, or simply interested in the art of modern matchmaking, this episode will provide lots of information and inspiration.

Carrie Jeroslow: 24:26

Episode 103, from Monogamy to Monogamish Reimagining Modern Relationships monogamish reimagining modern relationships. In this solo episode, I look at the concept of monogamish relationships, a hybrid between monogamy and open relationships. Coined by Dan Savage, this term represents relationships that blend primary commitment with some degree of sexual or emotional openness. I look at the origins of the term, its benefits and various examples of how monogamish arrangements can be personalized to fit your unique partnership needs. This episode also includes reflective questions to determine if a monogamish setup could be right for you and your partner, along with steps to navigate the transition from traditional monogamy. Along with steps to navigate the transition from traditional monogamy.

Carrie Jeroslow: 25:16

Episode 104, advocacy and Support for Non-Monogamy with Brett Chamberlain. In this important episode, I have a conversation with Brett Chamberlain, the Executive Director of OPEN, an advocacy nonprofit for polyamory and ethical non-monogamy. Brett shares the foundational values embedded in non-monogamy and the significant impact it can have on society. We discuss the importance of visibility, community and legal advocacy in advancing acceptance and rights for non-monogamous families. This conversation covers tangible steps for advocacy. So if you're uncertain how you can make a difference, this gives you small, tangible steps to do it in a way that feels comfortable and safe, taking into account your degree of openness. We also talk about the upcoming Week of Visibility for Non-Monogamy, which is July 15th through the 21st 2024, and how you can get involved.

Carrie Jeroslow: 26:13

Episode 105, is Compersion Easier for Some More Than Others? With Dr Marie Tuin. In this episode, I welcome back my friend, dr Marie Tuin, a leading expert on compersion, to discuss her most recent research and findings. We go into the complexities of compersion and its intersection with social positionality, examining how factors like age, race, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status and geographical location influence the experience of compersion in consensually non-monogamous relationships. Marie shares insights from her new book detailing the socio-psychological aspects of compersion, its broader applications beyond consensual non-monogamy and the importance of supportive communities. This episode was so enlightening for me. Her research and data provided very different results than what I would have thought. So check this one out.

Carrie Jeroslow: 27:14

And finally, episode 106, finding tenderness while facing relationship challenges with Molly Ray. In this episode, I have an amazing conversation with relationship coach Molly Ray. We discuss the idea of how relationships act as mirrors and messengers for personal growth. Molly shares insights on differentiating between pain and suffering and emphasizes the importance of tenderness towards oneself during challenging periods. Molly also provides practical advice on how to navigate complex emotions and relationship dynamics consciously and intentionally. This is much needed wisdom for so many people going through hard times in their relationships, which leads us up to this episode, episode 107, the mid-year review for 2024.

Carrie Jeroslow: 28:05

So, which episodes are you most drawn to? Is there something that you've been struggling with that I haven't talked about yet? Now you can send me an anonymous message by clicking at the top of the show notes on the link that says send me a message. I'd love to know what you're wanting to learn about so I can help you on your exploration and journey into relationship diversity. It's super easy and it will help me help you. So there we go, and on to the second half of 2024, I'm hoping to take more breaths and to bring myself into the present moment to enjoy the second half of 2024. I hope you'll join me and until next time, my friend, stay tuned and stay curious.

Carrie Jeroslow: 28:56

Thanks so much for listening to the Relationship Diversity Podcast. Want to learn more about relationship diversity? I've got a free guide I'd love to send you. Go to wwwrelationshipdiversitypodcastcom to get yours sent right to you. If you liked what you heard, please subscribe to the podcast, you being here and participating in the conversation about relationship diversity is what helps us create a space of inclusivity and acceptance together. The more comfortable and normal it is to acknowledge the vast and varied relating we all do, the faster we'll shift to a paradigm of conscious, intentional and diverse relationships. New episodes are released every Thursday. Stay connected with me through my YouTube channel, where I'll give you even more free resources and information, all about relationship diversity. I'm super excited to go deeper into YouTube because I'll be able to connect and have conversations directly with you. You'll find the link in the show notes. Stay curious.

Carrie Jeroslow: 30:03

Every relationship is as unique as you are. Are you wondering why you never seem to find lasting fulfillment in your relationships? Or do you create the same kinds of relationship experiences over and over again? Can you never seem to find even one person who you want to explore a relationship with? Have you just given up hope altogether? If this sounds like you, my recent book why Do they Always Break Up With Me is the perfect place to start. The foundation of any relationship, whether intimate or not, is the relationship we have with ourselves. In the book, I lead you through eight clear steps to start or continue your self-exploration journey. You'll learn about the importance of self-acceptance, gratitude, belief shifting and forgiveness, and given exercises to experience these life-changing concepts. This is the process I use to shift my relationships from continual heartbreak to what they are now fulfilling, soul-nourishing, compassionate and loving. It is possible for you. This book can set you on a path to get there, currently available through Amazon or through the link in the show notes.