Conscious Kink, Community, and Connection

Unlocking the Hidden Beliefs That Shape Our Relationships

Explore how unconscious belief systems influence your love life, identity, and how we can break destructive patterns. Join Dr. Stephen Paul Edwards and Leann Herron as they delve into raw personal stories, spiritual insights, and practical tools to transform your relationship patterns and rebuild your sense of self. Dr. Stephen Paul Edwards is an international speaker, spiritual counselor, and author of The Venus Fly Trap. Dr. Edwards brings a rare blend of lived experience and deep spiritual insight. From high-stakes business success to emotional collapse and reinvention, his journey is as raw as it is transformative. His book, The Venus Fly Trap, is not your typical love story—it’s a gripping, real-life account of passion, power, obsession, and the devastating cost of losing yourself in the wrong relationship. This conversation goes beyond surface-level self-help. It dives into the uncomfortable truths about why we stay, why we repeat, and how we begin again. Main Topics Covered: • The subconscious beliefs that influence our love choices and tolerances • Dr. Edwards’ transformational journey from childhood trauma to healing • How attachment and identity are shaped by past experiences • The power of vulnerability and storytelling in healing • Practical tools for recognizing and releasing attachment to possessions and identities • Humor as a pattern-breaking tool in therapy and life • How to reconnect with your heart to facilitate true growth • The significance of understanding your patterns for relationship success • Resources and free offers to support your healing journey Timestamps: 00:00 What if relationship breakdowns mirror hidden beliefs? 02:16 From Childhood Trauma to Global Impact 09:25 Patterns in Relationships: Breaking the Cycle 16:40 Finding the Gift in Trauma 22:40 Identity and Attachment: The Less is More Philosophy 32:09 The Power of Vulnerability 37:20 Transforming Pain into Purpose 46:41 Rebuilding Identity After Loss 58:21 Using Humor as a Healing Tool Episode Resources: About your host: Leann Herron is a Kink-Aware Professional, Kink Coach, BDSM Coach, Transformation Coach for Women, and Educator. She is also the Founder of Finding Resilience with Leann and Kink Your Way, and the creator and host of the Happiness On Tap Podcast and the Kink Your Way Podcast. Connect with Leann Herron: Kink Your Way Website: ⁠Kink Your Way [https://kinkyourway.com ⁠] LinkedIn ⁠ [⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/leannherron/] Finding Resilience with Leann Website: Finding Resilience with Leann [https://findingresiliencewithleann.com ⁠] Podcast: Happiness On Tap [⁠https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVch1Dz_wc4GYfCzZrK656eNXpOqBYcm3&si=AQ_vTu-zvwmJCY_F ⁠] About Dr. Stephen Paul Edwards: Dr. Stephen Paul Edwards, Founder of VFT23 Publishing LLC, international speaker, author, and spiritual counselor with a PhD in Spiritual Counseling. Originally from Blackpool, UK, and now based in Florida, he combines decades of business experience with expertise in personal transformation and emotional growth. Author of The Venus Fly Trap: Sex, Lies, and Repercussions, a raw and electrifying memoir exploring power, obsession, vulnerability, and reinvention. Today, he helps individuals break destructive patterns, rebuild self-worth, and live with clarity and purpose, inspiring audiences to embrace truth, confront discomfort, and reclaim their authentic selves. With over 20 years of experience in coaching, counselling, and transformational speaking, Dr. Edwards is known for his direct, insightful approach and ability to quickly uncover what’s keeping you stuck. Connect with Dr. Stephen Paul Edwards: VFY Website [https://vft23.com/vft23official@gmail.com] tiktok.com/@vft23_official facebook.com/VFT23-Official linkedin.com/in/seemiracles x.com/stephen_edwardz instagram.com/vft23_official/ Free Gift & Offers: The First Three Chapters of The Venus Fly Trap: Sex, Lies & Reprecussion [ https://vft23.kit.com/1caecbb7a7?utm_source=Leann+Herron&utm_medium=Kink+Your+Way&utm_campaign=Podcast+Interview+-+Leann+Herron ] Coaching & Counseling Sessions with Dr. Stephen Paul Edwards [https://vft23.com/coaching-and-counselling/?utm_source=Leann+Herron&utm_medium=Kink+Your+Way&utm_campaign=Podcast+Interview+-+Leann+Herron] Discount Code : VFT23! #BeliefSystems #Identity #RelationshipPatterns #EmotionalHealing #PersonalTransformation #safety #midlife

Navigating Non-Monogamy and Kink with Clarity

What if the key to navigating alternative relationship dynamics wasn’t secrecy or guessing—but education, community, and honest conversations? Discover how education, community, and honest dialogue are transforming the landscape of alternative relationship dynamics. Nicole Harlow shares her journey, her platform Swinky Things, and innovative tools like her upcoming app that empower individuals and couples exploring consensual non-monogamy, swinging, and BDSM. This episode emphasizes the importance of safety, communication, and self-awareness in these evolving spaces. Key Topics • The origin story of Swinky Things and Nicole’s personal journey into non-monogamy and BDSM • The significance of self-exploration, boundaries, and ongoing communication for relationship longevity • Differentiating between swinging, non-monogamy, and BDSM, and how they can coexist • Common misconceptions about BDSM and the non-monogamous lifestyle, emphasizing consent and respect • The role of education in reducing shame and misinformation—highlighting community and local resources • The development and features of the Safe Words app for safe, organized exploration of BDSM scenes • Addressing shame and fear: how transparency with family and community fosters acceptance • Incorporating BDSM and non-monogamy into broader conversations about sex education and mental health awareness • Practical tools and subscription boxes designed to facilitate safe exploration • The future of community, education, and collaboration in empowering safe non-monogamous and BDSM practices Timestamps 00:00 Navigating Alternative Relationship Dynamics 01:39 The Birth of Swinky Things 06:58 Defining the Swinky Lifestyle 10:17 Personal Journeys in Kink and BDSM 16:27 Exploration Resources 21:25 Misconceptions About Non-Monogamy and BDSM 27:39 Exploring New Dimensions of Attraction 31:14 The Journey of Self-Discovery 33:43 Community and Connection 35:37 Breaking Taboos: Education and Empowerment 38:49 Normalizing Conversations Around Sexuality 40:23 Living Authentically: Sharing Our Truths 44:21 Collaboration and Community Support 47:09 Innovative Tools for Exploration Episode Resources: Guest: Nicole Harlot is the creator behind Swinky Things, a comprehensive lifestyle guide and educational resource for adults exploring consensual non-monogamy, swinging, and BDSM practices. Through Swinky Things, they're building a supportive space where curiosity meets education and judgment-free exploration is celebrated. Connect with Swinky Things: Website: https://swinkythings.com/ [https://swinkythings.com/ ] Instagram: @swinkythings App: Oursafewords.app (pending launch) About your host: Leann Herron is a Kink-Aware Professional, Kink Coach, BDSM Coach, Transformation Coach for Women, and Educator. She is also the Founder of Finding Resilience with Leann and Kink Your Way, and the creator and host of the Happiness On Tap Podcast and the Kink Your Way Podcast. Connect with Leann Herron: Kink Your Way Website: https://kinkyourway.com [https://kinkyourway.com ] Linktree: https://linktr.ee/kinkyourway [https://linktr.ee/kinkyourway ] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leannherron/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/leannherron/ ] 🆓 FREE Discover the Secrets of Healthy BDSM Relationships https://kinkyourway.com/discover-the-secrets [https://kinkyourway.com/discover-the-secrets] Finding Resilience with Leann Website: https://findingresiliencewithleann.com [https://findingresiliencewithleann.com ] Podcast: Happiness On Tap https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVch1Dz_wc4GYfCzZrK656eNXpOqBYcm3&si=AQ_vTu-zvwmJCY_F [https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVch1Dz_wc4GYfCzZrK656eNXpOqBYcm3&si=AQ_vTu-zvwmJCY_F ] Hashtags:

Dopamine and Desire: Understanding Pleasure Pathways

Dopamine and Desire: Understanding Pleasure Pathways What if pain isn’t just pain—and pleasure isn’t always what we think? In the world of BDSM, the lines between agony and ecstasy blur in ways neuroscience is only beginning to explain. Join us as groundbreaking sex researcher Nishita Rao unpacks the neurobiology of kink, revealing how your brain processes pain, power, and pleasure. In this episode of Kink Your Way, host Leann Herron engages with sex researcher Nishita Rao to explore the complex neurobiology of BDSM, focusing on how the brain processes pain and pleasure. They discuss the role of dopamine in reward pathways, the significance of the amygdala in evaluating stimuli, and how context influences the perception of pain in BDSM. The conversation highlights the intricate relationship between pain and pleasure, emphasizing that BDSM experiences are not merely physical but deeply psychological and contextual. Key Takeaways: Pain and pleasure are not binary; they can overlap. Dopamine plays a crucial role in motivation and reward anticipation. The brain's response to stimuli is context-dependent. The amygdala evaluates the relevance of stimuli based on past experiences. BDSM can transform pain into pleasure through established trust and consent. Understanding the neurobiology of kink can enhance sexual experiences. Anticipation heightens the experience of pleasure in BDSM. Different types of pain (sharp, dull, emotional) affect perception differently. The brain's pathways for pain and pleasure are interconnected. 🕛 Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Dopamine and Desire with Nishita Rao 02:07 Disclaimers 03:27 Understanding Pleasure Pathways in the Brain 11:35 The Role of Dopamine in Reward and Anticipation 17:49 The Amygdala: More Than Just Fear 24:03 Contextualizing Pain in BDSM 34:44 The Neurobiology of Pain and Pleasure in BDSM Episode Resources: Guest: Nishita Rao Nishita Rao is the First and only Indian to become an AASECT Certified Sex Educator. She is also an Interdisciplinary Sex Researcher and a Behavioral Neuroscience Consultant, who hails from a background in Behavioral Neuroendocrinology, Bioengineering, Brain-Computer Interfaces & Sustainable Fragrance Industry. Connect with Nishita Rao Website: https://www.pillowtalkwithnixi.com/about [https://www.pillowtalkwithnixi.com/about ] Pillow Talk with Nixi https://www.pillowtalkwithnixi.com/ [https://www.pillowtalkwithnixi.com/ ] Center for Integrated Human Studieshttps://center-for-integrated-human-studies.notion.site/cihs [https://center-for-integrated-human-studies.notion.site/cihs ] Neuroscience Consultation https://cal.com/nishita-rao-ptwn [https://cal.com/nishita-rao-ptwn] Trauma-Informed Care https://cal.com/soul-sync-sanctuary [https://cal.com/soul-sync-sanctuary ] Free Library https://www.pillowtalkwithnixi.com/sexscholarslibrary [https://www.pillowtalkwithnixi.com/sexscholarslibrary ] Eros Coaching: https://www.eroscoaching.com/2025/06/nishita-rao/ [https://www.eroscoaching.com/2025/06/nishita-rao/] You can also find her on Bluesky, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube Videos: Nociceptors - An Introduction to Pain https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fUKlpuz2VTs [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fUKlpuz2VTs] PAIN! Physiology - The Ascending Pathway, Descending Pain Pathway and the Substantia Gelatinosa https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5c8maFAhqIc [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5c8maFAhqIc] About your host: Leann Herron is a Kink-Aware Professional, Kink Coach, BDSM Coach, Transformation Coach for Women, and Educator. She is also the Founder of Finding Resilience with Leann and Kink Your Way, and the creator and host of the Happiness On Tap Podcast and the Kink Your Way Podcast. Connect with Leann Herron: Kink Your Way Website: https://kinkyourway.com [https://kinkyourway.com ] Linktree: https://linktr.ee/kinkyourway [https://linktr.ee/kinkyourway ] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leannherron/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/leannherron/ ] Finding Resilience with Leann Website: https://findingresiliencewithleann.com [h⁠ttps://findingresiliencewithleann.com ⁠] 🏷️Keywords: BDSM, neurobiology, pleasure pathways, dopamine, amygdala, pain perception, sex education, kink, neuroscience, pleasure and pain 🔎Related Hashtags:#neurobiology #neuralpathways #dopamine #amygdala #painpercept

Handcrafted Pleasure - The Kink Shop

Handcrafted Pleasure: The Legacy and Lifestyle Behind The Kink Shop In this episode of Kink Your Way, host Leann Herron and Ben from the Kink Shop discuss the intersection of community, craftsmanship, and kink culture. They explore their personal journeys into kink, the importance of education and consent, and the Kink Shop's philosophy of being 'by kinksters for kinksters.' The conversation highlights the significance of quality in kink products and the role of community in fosteringa safe and enjoyable kink experience. Key Takeaways: * The Kink Shop has thrived for over 25 years due to itsstrong community ties. * Ben's journey into kink began with his first event atFolsom Street Fair. * Leann's introduction to kink came after a long vanillamarriage and self-discovery. * Both Ben and Leann emphasize the importance ofexploring kink together with partners. * The Kink Shop prioritizes customer service and treatscustomers like family. * Education is crucial for safe and enjoyable kinkexperiences. * Negotiation and consent are fundamental aspects ofkink play. * The Kink Shop aims to provide quality products with alifetime warranty. * Ben expresses a desire to expand the Kink Shopinternationally, particularly in Europe. * Leann's podcast reaches a global audience, helping toconnect kinksters worldwide. 🕛 Timestamps 00:00 Handcrafted Pleasure for Over 25 Years 00:24 Greetings and Introduction to Ben and The KinkShop 01:48 The Kink Shop: Family-Owned, Handcrafted Toys 04:02 Ben's Kink Journey 07:13 Leann's Path to Kink 10:25 Shared Experiences in Kink Relationships 13:12 Kinktoberfest and Learning Together 17:05 Kink Shop Philosophy: By Kinksters for Kinksters 22:23 Quality and Craftsmanship in Kink Toys 27:05 Education and Safety in Kink Play 31:42 Navigating Safe Words and Scene Endings 32:09 Understanding Top and Bottom Headspaces 33:17 The Importance of Education in Kink 35:31 Exploring Sensuality and Intention in Play 37:14 The Role of Education and Resources in Kink 39:07 Negotiation and Safety in Kink Dynamics 40:24 The Risks and Responsibilities of Kink 43:20 Creating a Safe and Educational Kink Environment 44:48 Personalizing the Kink Experience 50:21 Kink and BDSM Resources and Education forWriters and Readers 54:28 Kink and BDSM Coaching 55:32 Future Aspirations for the Kink Shop 59:47 Connecting with the Kink Shop Don’t forget to like 👍, share 👉, and subscribe! Episode Resources: Guest: Ben, a proud kinkster, seasoned sales pro, and futureco-owner of The Kink Shop—a multi-generation, family-owned company that’s been handcrafting toys for over 25 years. Known for their thuddy impact toys, stingy sensations, and electro delights, The Kink Shop has become a cornerstone ofkink culture across the U.S. Connect with Ben: Website: https://thekinkshop.com/ [https://thekinkshop.com/] Email: tks@joytrust.org [tks@joytrust.org] Facebook: thekinkshop Twitter x @TheKinkShop Fetlife: TheKinkShop   About your host: Leann Herron is a Kink-AwareProfessional, Kink Coach, BDSM Coach, Transformation Coach for Women, and Educator. She is also the Founder of Finding Resilience with Leann and Kink Your Way, and the creator and host of the Happiness On Tap Podcast and the Kink Your Way Podcast.  Connect with Leann Herron: Kink Your Way Website: https://kinkyourway.com [https://kinkyourway.com] Linktree: https://linktr.ee/kinkyourway [https://linktr.ee/kinkyourway] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leannherron/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/leannherron/] Finding Resilience with Leann Website: https://findingresiliencewithleann.com [https://findingresiliencewithleann.com] 🔑 Keyword Tags Kink, BDSM, community, craftsmanship, education, consent, intimacy, identity, pleasure, toys 📣 Hashtags #education #sexpositive #consentculture #podcastinterview #community #lifetimewarranty #exploration #customerservice

Conscious Kink, Community, and Connection

Conscious Kink, Community, and Connection - The Kink Collective In this conversation, host Leann Herron speaks with Cat Ormeand Joshua Rodriguez, co-founders of the Kink Collective, about the transformative power of kink as a path to healing and empowerment. They discuss the importance of community, the philosophy of 'people before kink', and the necessity of education in navigating kink safely. The Kink Collective offersvarious programs aimed at fostering personal exploration, connection, and understanding within the kink community. They emphasize the significance of body mapping and communication in creating safe and fulfilling experiences inkink. In this conversation, Cat and Joshua explore the intersections of BDSM, personal responsibility, communication, and consent within BDSM practices. They emphasize the importance of self-advocacy, negotiation techniques for safer scenes, and the role of mentorship in kink communities. The discussion also delves into the integration of trauma and kink, the redefinition ofmasculinity, and the creation of safe spaces for vulnerability. Theconversation concludes with insights on personal growth and the importance of education in navigating these complex topics. Key Takeaways: * BDSM is a valid contribution to somatic healing arts. * Personal responsibility is crucial in BDSM practices. * Communication is key; partners should not expect mind reading. * Negotiation is essential for safety and consent in BDSM. * Mentorship is vital for newcomers in kink communities. * Trauma can inform one's experience in kink and BDSM. * Redefining masculinity is important for personal growth. * Creating safe spaces allows for vulnerability and healing. * Education is necessary for understanding and navigating kink. 🕛 Timestamps 00:00 Greetings and Introduction of Cat Orme and JoshuaRodriguez 02:37 The Mission of the Kink Collective 04:55 Community and Connection in Kink 08:29 People Before Kink Philosophy 11:10 The Importance of Educational Spaces 14:26 Navigating Kink Safely 19:07 Healing Through Kink Practices 23:35 Finding Your Voice in Kink 27:43 Programs Offered by the Kink Collective 35:28 The Power of Perspective-Based Learning 37:22 Healing Through Kink Program 39:15 Body Mapping: Understanding Our Sensations 43:57 Navigating Limitations in BDSM 46:49 Personal Responsibility in BDSM Relationships 01:01:02 The Role of Mentorship in BDSM 01:03:09 MITPISA - Negotiation Tools for Safety in BDSM 01:17:13 The Importance of Follow-Up and Communication 01:19:23 Navigating Grief and Trauma in Kink 01:31:38 Redefining Masculinity and Identity 01:44:15 Creating Safe Spaces for Men to Share Episode Resources:   Guests: Cat Orme and Joshua Rodriguez –Co-founders of Kink Collective Kink Collective is a place where curiosity is met with respect, and every journey is built on honesty and understanding. Find the support and community to explore meaningful connections and profound self-discovery. Connect with Cat Orme and JoshuaRodriguez: Website: https://kinkcollective.net/ [https://kinkcollective.net/]   About your host: Leann Herron is a Kink-Aware Professional, Kink Coach, BDSM Coach, Transformation Coach for Women, and Educator. She is also the Founder of Finding Resilience with Leann and Kink Your Way, and the creator and host of the Happiness On Tap Podcast and the Kink Your Way Podcast.    Connect with Leann Herron: Kink Your Way Website: https://kinkyourway.com [https://kinkyourway.com] Linktree: https://linktr.ee/kinkyourway [https://linktr.ee/kinkyourway] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leannherron/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/leannherron/]   Finding Resilience with Leann Website: https://findingresiliencewithleann.com [https://findingresiliencewithleann.com] Podcast: Happiness On Tap https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVch1Dz_wc4GYfCzZrK656eNXpOqBYcm3&si=AQ_vTu-zvwmJCY_F [https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVch1Dz_wc4GYfCzZrK656eNXpOqBYcm3&si=AQ_vTu-zvwmJCY_F]   Keywords: Kink, BDSM, Healing, Community, Education, Transformation, Empowerment, Connection, Negotiation, Safety, somatic healing, BDSM, personal responsibility, communication, consent, negotiation, mentorship, trauma, masculinity