The Open Bedroom Podcast

EP 215: When the Match Doesn’t Match Your True Desires

In this episode of The Open Bedroom Podcast, I sit down with my husband Scott as we reflect on his recent breakup with a woman we’d been dating. We get real about the importance of relationship alignment, the challenges that come up when expectations around exclusivity and autonomy don’t quite match, and how easy it is to overlook red flags when there’s strong chemistry. Sharing from our own experience, we talk about why honest communication matters, how being clear about what we want can make all the difference, and the importance of choosing partners whose relationship goals truly line up with ours. Whether you’re exploring modern, non-traditional relationship dynamics or just curious, we hope our conversation offers some thoughtful insights and support along the way. When the Match Doesn’t Match (00:05:27) Diving into why the recent relationship didn’t work, starting from dating profiles to real-life misalignment. Misalignment in Relationship Goals (00:07:56) Clarifying the disconnect in what each party wanted—deep connection vs. friends with benefits—and how this was communicated. Overlooking Red Flags Due to Chemistry (00:08:49) How strong chemistry and communication led both sides to ignore fundamental misalignments. Challenges of Standing Firm in Desires (00:10:09) The difficulty of holding to one’s relationship needs when someone seems to check almost every box. Intellectual vs. Political Alignment (00:10:34) Discussing how intellectual connection was strong, but political and worldview differences existed. Navigating Political Differences in Dating (00:12:18) Jen reflects on dating app experiences and how political alignment is often a barrier, but can also be a source of connection. Red Flags vs. Misalignment (00:16:33) Exploring the difference between true red flags and simple misalignment in relationship goals. Ignoring Red Flags and Its Consequences (00:18:18) Why people ignore red flags, and the pain caused by trying to force a relationship despite clear misalignments. Autonomy vs. Security in Relationships (00:20:10) Scott and Jen discuss the struggle between wanting autonomy and the desire for security and exclusivity. Believing People When They Show You Who They Are (00:23:09) Learning to accept people’s stated boundaries and not trying to change them; importance of alignment. Lessons Learned and Moving Forward (00:24:10) Jen shares takeaways: only date aligned people and avoid those who put up emotional walls. Confusion When Words and Actions Differ (00:25:03) How mixed signals—saying one thing but acting another—create confusion and hope for change. Reflecting on Past Relationship Dynamics (00:27:17) Jen wonders if things would have changed if they hadn’t pushed for exclusivity, drawing parallels to her own past. Choosing Each Other and Responsibility (00:29:01) Scott discusses the responsibility and effort involved when someone chooses exclusivity and prioritizes the relationship. Scott’s Capacity for Multiple Relationships (00:33:06) Jen praises Scott’s ability to meet the needs of multiple partners and reflects on what they seek in future partners. Tailoring Relationship Dynamics to Your Needs (00:35:30) Advice to listeners: seek partners who want the same dynamic as you, whether it’s polyamory, swinging, or exclusivity. Envisioning the Future and Alignment (00:36:34) Realizing misalignment when future visions don’t include each other; importance of shared goals. Honesty About Needs and Desires (00:37:43) Emphasizing the need for self-honesty and seeking partners who are open to building what you want. Podcast Closing (00:39:15) Thanking listeners, encouraging feedback, and inviting them to subscribe and share the podcast. Follow The Open Bedroom podcast: https://www.instagram.com/theopenbedroompodcast [https://www.instagram.com/theopenbedroompodcast]

EP#214: Things Your Momma Never Told You About Your Vagina with Heather Florio

Hey, it’s Jen, and this episode of The Open Bedroom Podcast is all about the things your momma probably never mentioned about your vagina (and trust me, you’ll want to hear this!). I’m joined by Heather Florio, the fabulous CEO of Desert Harvest, and together we’re busting myths, spilling secrets, and getting real about women’s pelvic and vaginal health.We kick things off by debunking some classic myths—like whether you really need to do Kegels all day, every day (spoiler: not everyone should!), and why those “freshness” products in the drugstore might be doing more harm than good. Heather dives into the science behind vaginal health, explaining why pH-balanced and iso-osmolar products are your best friends, especially when it comes to lubricants and moisturizers.We get into the nitty-gritty about hormone changes during perimenopause and menopause, and why supporting your body through these transitions is so important. Heather also drops some truth bombs about why you should steer clear of douches and coconut oil (yep, even if your favorite influencer swears by it), and why aloe-based moisturizers might just be the unsung heroes of vaginal care.This episode is packed with practical tips for keeping your pelvic health in check, and we’re all about empowering you to ask questions, have open conversations, and demand evidence-based care. So grab your headphones and get ready to learn what your momma didn’t tell you—but definitely should have!Follow Heather:https://desertharvest.com/Follow The Open Bedroom Podcast:https://www.instagram.com/theopenbedroompodcast

EP#213: Successful Sex Work (in Australia) with George Gouldburn

In this episode of The Open Bedroom Podcast, I sit down with George Goulburn, who left his corporate career to become a straight male escort in Australia. George opens up about his unique journey, sharing what inspired his career change and what life is really like as a male escort. We dive into the legal and cultural differences between sex work in Australia and the U.S., and George offers honest insights into the realities of his work—helping women explore their desires, regain confidence, and experience genuine companionship. Our conversation highlights how sex work is normalized in Australia, the importance of safety and consent, and we challenge some of the most common stereotypes about escorts and their clients. Introduction to George and His Journey (00:00:02) George shares how women encouraged him to become a paid escort and discusses his communication skills. Podcast and Guest Introduction (00:00:27) Jen introduces the podcast, George’s background, and sets up the conversation about sex work in Australia. Legal Status of Sex Work in Australia (00:04:18) Discussion about the legality of escorting in Australia, differences with the US, and social perceptions. Impact of Legalization and Social Attitudes (00:07:30) How legalization has changed the industry, societal views, and the ongoing taboo around sex work. George’s Transition from Corporate to Escorting (00:10:17) George describes his personal journey, challenges, and learning curve moving from corporate life to sex work. First Paid Experience and Professional Approach (00:11:38) George recounts his first paid encounter and how it changed his approach to intimacy and professionalism. Client Vetting and Customization (00:13:58) Explains his process for vetting clients, customizing experiences, and the importance of clear communication. Clientele Demographics and Motivations (00:16:18) Discussion about the types of women who seek his services, their backgrounds, and what they are looking for. Companionship vs. Sex and Self-Care (00:18:14) Explores how companionship is often more important than sex, and how clients view the service as self-care. Fetishes, Power Dynamics, and Kink (00:22:30) Talks about clients’ interests in BDSM, power exchange, and how he introduces kink and new experiences. Follow George: www.georgegoulburn.com [www.georgegoulburn.com] Follow The Open Bedroom Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/theopenbedroompodcast [https://www.instagram.com/theopenbedroompodcast]

EP#212: Most Replayed Moment: How to Create a Threeway

This is the most listened to segment of EP136: How to Have a Threesome.  To listen to the rest of the episode that includes HOW to communicate to your partner during a threesome, click the link below: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5d0pUBCL1Fkv7CQVwu15U4?si=knry02cqRNOTmHlpiXuK8g [https://open.spotify.com/episode/5d0pUBCL1Fkv7CQVwu15U4?si=knry02cqRNOTmHlpiXuK8g] Wanna have a threesome? You're not alone!  A threesome is the most sought after sexual experience, and almost 20% of men have had one!  In today's episode I discuss how to find a 3rd through online platforms and the importance of setting boundaries and intentions.  I share my personal experiences, advising on safe sex practices and the significance of aftercare.  My insights aim to create a respectful and safe environment for all participants, ensuring a positive and consensual experience. 0:00 Intro Alignment with Your Partner (00:01:14) Discussing the importance of finding alignment with your partner and understanding the dynamics for a threesome. Advertising Your Intentions (00:03:17) Exploring the ways to advertise your intentions for a threesome, including online groups and dating apps. Pre-Threesome Communication (00:06:19) Emphasizing the importance of clear communication and setting intentions before engaging in a threesome. Follow The Open Bedroom Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/theopenbedroompodcast/ [https://www.instagram.com/theopenbedroompodcast/]

EP#211: How to Thrive in Neurodiverse Relationships with Seb & Dr. Alison Ash

In this episode of The Open Bedroom Podcast, I explore how neurodiversity—specifically ADHD and autism—affect relationships, intimacy, and daily life. I’m joined by Seb, who has ADHD and two decades of experience supporting neurodivergent individuals, and his neurotypical wife, Dr. Alison Ash. Together, we discuss communication strategies, managing executive function stress, sensory sensitivities, and the importance of mutual understanding. Seb and Dr. Aly share practical tools for navigating challenges, fostering emotional connection, and creating fulfilling partnerships that honor both neurodivergent and neurotypical needs. Dr. Alison Ash, aka Dr. Aly, is a trauma-informed intimacy coach and educator, Stanford University Lecturer, author, and founder of TurnON.love.  As a sociologist with a PhD from Stanford, she has a comprehensive understanding of the complex societal challenges that often lead to unsatisfying and disempowering intimate experiences.  Sebastian aka Seb is a certified TurnON.love sex and intimacy coach and educator. Seb also has two decades of experience of working with neurodivergent folks, and specializes in supporting them and their partners to have fulfilling intimacy.  Dr. Aly and Seb design workshops, courses, and retreats and offer individuals and couples coaching to give others the tools to be able to cultivate and sustain nourishing emotional and sexual intimacy. They invite you to TurnON pleasure, intimacy and love at www.TurnON.love Chapter 2: Personal Journeys & Neurodiversity Expertise (00:02:04) Saib shares his background working with neurodiverse individuals and his personal experience with ADHD; Dr. Aly discusses her neurotypical but highly sensitive background. Chapter 3: Understanding Neurodiversity—Definitions & Dynamics (00:05:02) The group explores the definitions of neurotypical and neurodivergent, societal expectations, and the importance of recognizing both strengths and challenges. Chapter 4: Prevalence, Diagnosis, and Self-Identification (00:08:38) Saib discusses statistics on neurodivergence, generational differences, and how to recognize signs of being neurodivergent. Chapter 5: Empowerment Through Diagnosis & Community (00:12:50) Dr. Aly and Seb highlight the benefits of diagnosis or self-identification, including empowerment and finding community. Chapter 6: ADHD & Autism—Traits, Gender Differences, and Masking (00:14:13) Seb explains ADHD types, autism as a spectrum, gender differences in presentation, and the concept of masking neurodivergent traits. Chapter 7: Neurodiversity in Relationships—Challenges & Tools (00:22:35) Discussion shifts to how neurodivergence shows up in relationships, managing executive function, and practical tools like to-do lists and shared calendars. Chapter 8: Communication, Collaboration, and Emotional Health (00:35:26) Dr. Aly discusses supportive communication, positive reinforcement, collaborative problem-solving, and handling difficult conversations in neurodiverse partnerships. Chapter 9: Intimacy, Sensory Needs, and Sexual Connection (00:54:28) Exploring how ADHD and autism impact sexual intimacy, including sensory sensitivities, predictability, and tools for supporting neurodivergent partners. Dr. Aly and Sebastian will be teaching on Zoom Neurodiverse Relating & Executive Function on March 3rd Neurodiverse Love & Emotional Intimacy on March 10th Neurodiverse Pleasure & Sexual Intimacy on March 24th Folks can access these live virtual courses at www.TurnON.love/events These workshops are also available as an on-demand rental, offering the same material anytime, at www.TurnON.love/workshops For info on 1:1, couples, and ENM Intimacy coaching with Dr. Aly and Sebastian can be found at www.TurnON.love/coaching Follow the Open Bedroom podcast: https://www.instagram.com/theopenbedroompodcast?igsh=cjJ0ZThkYmR0ZG11&utm_source=qr