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In this bonus episode of Poly Pathways, hosts Kat and man! (expert guest) openly discuss the challenge of maintaining personal identity while navigating motherhood. Kat shares relatable, humorous stories about feeling overwhelmed by mom-focused conversations that leave little room for other interests. Together, they explore how being labeled solely as a "mom" can overshadow one's true self.The conversation also touches on parallels between motherhood and polyamory, highlighting how labels can limit how others see us. If you've ever felt confined by societal roles, this episode offers refreshing insight and reassurance that you're not alone.About Poly Pathways PodcastHosts: Kat and Doc (and occasionally man!)Website: polypathwayspodcast.transistor.fmYouTube: @polypathwayspodcastInstagram: @polypathwayspodcastTikTok: @polypathwayspodcast

💥 Conflict happens—especially in polyamory! In this jam-packed episode of Poly Pathways, Kat is joined by certified polyamory relationship coach man! to unpack the mess, magic, and meaning behind conflict in non-monogamous relationships. From anxious attachment spirals to passive-aggressive rules masquerading as boundaries, we dive deep into the reasons conflict erupts and how self-awareness, nuance, and genuine communication can stop it from burning everything down.✨ We don’t just talk about why conflict happens—we talk about what to do when it does. You'll hear practical, real-life strategies for navigating blowups, asking for timeouts, and reconnecting with intention. Learn how to repair with care, move toward resolution, and recover with rituals (yes, even the silly ones count). And when the drama hits Jenga-level collapse? We’ll help you figure out how to rebuild stronger than before.🧠 Whether you're a hinge, a meta, or someone caught in the emotional crossfire, you’ll walk away with tangible tools and inspiration to turn those explosive moments into opportunities for growth. Don’t miss this one—it’s real, it’s raw, and it’s full of heart. Subscribe, share, and let’s normalize the hard conversations in polyamory!🧰 Resources Mentioned (affiliate links)Drink Element (LMNT) – Electrolyte drink for staying hydratedMotion – AI-powered calendar and task managerPoly-Friendly Therapist DirectoryNational Coalition for Sexual Freedom’s DirectoryPsychology Today Therapist FinderMultiamory Podcast’s RADAR Check-in FrameworkRelationship Anarchy Smorgasbord & ChecklistRemodeled Love🛎 Like this episode? Hit subscribe, share with your polycule, and leave us a review—your support helps us bring more real talk to the poly community!

Navigating the workplace as a polyamorous professional comes with unique challenges and opportunities. In this episode of Poly Pathways, we dive into the balancing act of being authentic while protecting your career. From watercooler conversations to HR policies, we explore the risks of being out at work, the potential rewards of building a supportive community, and the hidden biases that might shape your professional trajectory. Whether you’re debating whether to disclose your relationship structure or figuring out how your career shifts impact your partners, this conversation will help you make informed decisions.But it’s not just about workplace culture—we also explore the ripple effects career moves have on home life. When job changes, relocations, or promotions shake up your routine, how do you ensure all partners feel considered and valued? With personal stories, research-backed insights, and real-world strategies, this episode sheds light on the intersections of polyamory and professional ambition. Is your polycule prepared for the unexpected turns of career growth?If you’ve ever wondered how being polyamorous might impact your career—or how your career might impact your relationships—this episode has answers. Join Kat for a candid discussion that blends practical advice with personal experience, helping you create a workplace strategy that aligns with your values and goals.About Poly Pathways PodcastHosts: Kat and DocWebsite: polypathwayspodcast.transistor.fmYouTube: @polypathwayspodcastInstagram: @polypathwayspodcastTikTok: @polypathwayspodcastResources (affiliate links)• Magic AI – Virtual assistance service to help with daily life (Referral link in the show notes)Questions This Episode Answers:• How does being polyamorous affect your career opportunities and work relationships?• What are the risks and rewards of being out as polyamorous at work?• How can you navigate workplace conversations about relationships while maintaining privacy?• What industries and work environments are more accepting of non-traditional relationships?• How do career changes impact polyamorous relationships and family dynamics?• What are strategies for discussing major job shifts with your polycule?• How can polyamorous professionals advocate for inclusivity in the workplace?

Feeling overwhelmed by the sheer emotional and logistical weight of polyamory? You’re not alone. In this episode of Poly Pathways, Kat and Doc dive deep into the concept of saturation—that moment when you realize you’re stretched too thin across relationships, responsibilities, and personal well-being. They explore the warning signs of saturation, from exhaustion and disconnection to resentment and burnout, and share their own experiences of navigating this crucial aspect of polyamorous life. If you’ve ever struggled with balancing love, logistics, and self-care, this conversation is for you.But identifying saturation is only half the battle—what do you do once you’re there? Kat and Doc break down strategies for managing saturation with existing partners, setting realistic expectations with new connections, and ensuring that you’re maintaining quality over quantity in your relationships. From check-in strategies and boundary setting to the importance of prioritizing friendships and self-care, they offer actionable advice for keeping your relationships fulfilling and sustainable. And yes, they remind us that even polyamorous folks need alone time—because you can’t pour from an empty cup.This episode is packed with insights on communicating your limits, creating a supportive environment for communication, recognizing when external pressures (work, family, mental health) affect your capacity, and building a polyamorous lifestyle that works for you. Plus, they touch on the underrated value of friendships, the pitfalls of overpromising to new partners, and how to embrace the natural ebb and flow of emotional bandwidth. If you’re juggling multiple partners, a career, and a busy life, you won’t want to miss this episode. Tune in, take notes, and give yourself permission to pause, reassess, and set boundaries where needed.About Poly Pathways PodcastHosts: Kat and DocWebsite: polypathwayspodcast.transistor.fmYouTube: @polypathwayspodcastInstagram: @polypathwayspodcastTikTok: @polypathwayspodcastResources (affiliate links)• Magic AI – Virtual assistance service to help with daily life (Referral link in the show notes)• Annie Undone Enjoying Poly Pathways? Subscribe, leave a review, and share with your polycule! Your support helps us keep bringing you real, practical conversations about polyamory. 💜

In this lively episode of the Poly Pathways Podcast, Kat and Doc explore the fascinating world of polyamorous dating, offering real-life examples, practical tips, and plenty of good-humored banter. They dig into popular apps like OKCupid, Bumble, Tinder, Field, #Open, and PolyFinder to help you compare user bases, filtering options, and the pros and cons of each. Along the way, they share hilarious personal stories (shout-out to the old Yahoo Dating days!), emphasize the importance of being transparent about your polyam status, and remind everyone that effective communication—even on a digital platform—starts with an honest, well-crafted profile. You’ll also hear call-outs to unique resources such as the Tiny Decisions app for spontaneous date planning, and the occasional mention of “Drink Element,” a sponsor that keeps them energized between all their busy commitments.Next, the hosts dive headfirst into strategies for meeting potential partners beyond traditional apps, from spotting friendly faces at renfaires and gaming events to dropping in on local poly meetup groups. Kat shares her take on why having a broad social circle—full of people with mutual hobbies like Dungeons & Dragons or community volunteer work—can be just as effective for forming new connections. The conversation touches on tricky topics like avoiding “unicorn-hunting” pitfalls, handling awkward or negative responses on dating apps, and setting boundaries around family responsibilities. They also discuss the difference between boundaries and rules, highlighting how self-awareness and early communication can help foster healthier, more respectful relationships.Finally, Kat and Doc tackle the big seasonal dilemma: how to celebrate (or ignore) traditional romantic holidays like Valentine’s Day without losing sight of each partner’s feelings. From scheduling creative one-on-one outings on separate dates to planning bigger group events like trivia nights or escape rooms, they offer playful tips for including everyone—without forcing people into a single mold. Key questions this episode answers include which dating apps work best for poly folks, how to manage time and communication when juggling multiple relationships, and how to gracefully handle important dates on the calendar. No matter your approach, these show notes sum up the main takeaway: by staying honest, respectful, and mindful of everyone’s comfort zone, you can create positive experiences and meaningful connections in the world of polyamory.Hosts: Kat and DocWebsite: polypathwayspodcast.transistor.fmYouTube: @polypathwayspodcastInstagram: @polypathwayspodcastTikTok: @polypathwayspodcastResources we mention (affiliate links)OKCupidBumbleTinderFeeld#OpenPolyFindaTiny Decisions App (for spontaneous date planning) iOS | AndroidDakota Wright on TikTokDrinkLMNT (Get a free sample pack with your order)Key Questions this Episode Answers• Which dating apps work best for polyamorous folks?• How do I approach safety, boundaries, and partner communication when dating?• Where can I meet potential partners outside of apps?• How do I handle special holidays like Valentine’s Day with multiple partners?• When should I disclose personal and relationship details to new connections?

Hosts: Kat and DocWebsite: polypathwayspodcast.transistor.fmYouTube: @polypathwayspodcastInstagram: @polypathwayspodcastTikTok: @polypathwayspodcastKat and Doc explore the perception of polyamory as a cult, challenge the notion that polyamorous individuals are trying to "convert" others, and how to form friendships in a complex relationship spectrum. They discuss how society's shift away from community building and toward hyper-individualism has influenced these misconceptions, referencing books like "Soul Boom" by Rainn Wilson and "Together" by Vivek Murthy to examine the broader context of America's loneliness epidemic.The hosts delve into how being openly polyamorous can impact friendships and social circles, sharing personal experiences of both acceptance and rejection. They address common misconceptions, such as the assumption that polyamorous people want to date all their friends or that exposure to polyamory will "convert" monogamous individuals. The discussion emphasizes that polyamory is more about relationship orientation than choice, similar to sexual orientation.The episode concludes by examining how polyamory's emphasis on clear communication can influence friendship dynamics and relationship transitions including escalations and de-escalations. Kat & Doc discuss the concept of "poly for the moment" and the importance of maintaining boundaries with friends who may view polyamory as an opportunity for infidelity, temporary exploration, or long awaited connection. They also preview their next episode about dating while polyamorous, which will cover topics like managing special days with multiple partners and dating app navigation.Resources Mentioned (affiliate links):"Soul Boom" by Rainn Wilson | Amazon | Bookshop.org"Together" by Vivek Murthy  | Amazon | Bookshop.orgMoney with Katie podcastRemodeled Love's Nuclear Fusion (and their podcast)Questions We Answer:Is polyamory really a cult, or is monogamy more cult-like in its social pressure and expectations?How do you maintain friendships when friends assume you want to date them after coming out as polyamorous?Why do polyamorous people seem to talk about polyamory so much - is it about converting others or something else?How do you handle friends who see your polyamory as an opportunity for infidelity or temporary exploration?Can you de-escalate from a romantic relationship back to friendship in polyamory?What happens to your social circle when your friends' partners are uncomfortable with your relationship style?How do polyamorous people actually decide who they want to date versus maintain as friends?Why might your old flames suddenly reappear when they learn you're polyamorous, and how should you handle it?What role does enhanced communication play in maintaining boundaries and friendships while polyamorous?

In this eye-opening episode of Poly Pathways, hosts Kat and Doc tackle the elephant in the room for many considering polyamory: jealousy and envy. They dive deep into the differences between these emotions and why they're not unique to polyamorous relationships. The hosts share personal stories and insights, debunking common misconceptions about jealousy in non-monogamous relationships.Kat and Doc explore how monogamy often allows people to avoid confronting jealous feelings, while polyamory encourages facing these emotions head-on. They discuss the fear-based nature of jealousy and how it relates to seeking safety in relationships. The hosts also touch on how jealousy can manifest in unexpected ways, as illustrated by Doc's camping story and Kat's experience with her boyfriend's profession.Listeners will gain valuable insights into managing jealousy and envy in all types of relationships. The hosts emphasize that feeling jealous doesn't make you "bad at poly" and offer a teaser for strategies to work through these challenging emotions in the second half of the episode. Whether you're polyamorous, monogamous, or somewhere in between, this episode provides a fresh perspective on dealing with the green-eyed monster.Follow @polypathwayspodcast for more insights on practical polyamory!

Kat's real-life journey into polyamory with host Kat! As a demisexual and occasionally bisexual white woman, Kat shares her evolution from a traditional monogamous background to embracing polyamory. Currently married to a cishet man and dating another cishet man (both monogamous to her by choice), Kat's story challenges conventional relationship norms while navigating family life with two young children.Kat's path to polyamory wasn't a straight line – it began with a college roommate introducing her to the concept, which she initially dismissed. Years later, a profound three-year relationship with a close friend helped her realize she could maintain deep, meaningful connections with multiple people simultaneously. This revelation, coupled with her natural curiosity and desire to experience life's fullness, led her to embrace polyamory. Her journey continued as she developed a relationship with a professional acquaintance that blossomed into a significant partnership, and later included a year-long relationship with a woman she met through local poly groups.The episode concludes with Kat's powerful message about the importance of claiming labels and finding community in the polyamorous world. She emphasizes how isolation can affect those practicing ethical non-monogamy, as both single and monogamous friends might struggle to relate to their experiences. This led to her collaboration with co-host Doc, a longtime friend since their early running days, to create the Poly Pathways Podcast as a platform for sharing experiences and building community.Follow @polypathwayspodcast on social mediaNote: This episode mentions "blue state" and discusses career considerations regarding privacy, but specific locations and professional details are intentionally withheld for privacy reasons.Episode FAQsQ: What does demisexual mean in the context of Kat's story?A: For Kat, demisexuality means developing sexual attraction only after forming a deep emotional connection. This became evident when she describes her relationship evolution with her current partner, where friendship and intellectual connection preceded romantic attraction. It's important to note that demisexuality exists on a spectrum and can manifest differently for different people.Q: How can someone navigate being polyamorous when their partners are monogamous?A: According to Kat's experience, successful poly-mono relationships are possible when built on clear communication and mutual respect. In her case, both her husband and partner choose to be monogamous while supporting her polyamorous identity. The key is ensuring all parties are comfortable with the arrangement and maintaining open dialogue about boundaries and expectations.Q: What's the difference between "looking for more" and being polyamorous?A: Kat emphasizes that polyamory isn't about wanting "more" or being unsatisfied – it's about having the capacity for multiple meaningful connections. She uses the ice cream analogy: it's not about being greedy, but rather appreciating different types of connections, just as someone might enjoy different ice cream flavors for their unique qualities.Q: How do you handle friendships when you're polyamorous?A: The podcast highlights three common challenges:- Single friends might struggle to relate to managing multiple relationships- Monogamous friends may feel their relationship values are being challenged- Finding supportive friends who understand polyamory can feel isolatingThe solution? Building community with other poly people and maintaining open, honest conversations with existing friends.Q: What role do labels play in polyamorous identity?A: While Kat initially resisted labels, she found empowerment in claiming them. Labels like "polyamorous," "demisexual," and "bisexual" helped her better understand herself and connect with others who share similar experiences, despite sometimes facing misconceptions from others.Relevant ResourcesLocal polyamorous groups (check Meetup.com or Facebook for local communities)Social Media: @polypathwayspodcastPolyamory Support Communities:Reddit: r/polyamoryFacebook polyamory groups (specific groups not mentioned)Books (affiliate links)Polysecure: Attachment, Trauma and Consensual Nonmonogamy by Jessica Fern - https://amzn.to/3ZojtOKThe Complete Polysecure Bundle by Jessica Fern - https://amzn.to/4gr6PVNPolysecure and The Polysecure Workbook (Bundle) by Jessica Fern - https://amzn.to/3ZHkQsXThe Ethical Slut by Janet Hardy and Dossie Easton - https://amzn.to/3VPDY5NOpening Up by Tristan Taormino - https://amzn.to/3BoeqWE

Hosts: Kat and DocWebsite: polypathwayspodcast.transistor.fmYouTube: @polypathwayspodcastInstagram: @polypathwayspodcastTikTok: @polypathwayspodcastIn this inaugural episode of Poly Pathways, hosts Kat and Doc dive into the rich landscape of polyamory resources across social media, podcasts, books, and online communities. They explore how these various platforms and voices have shaped their understanding of ethical non-monogamy and continue to influence their poly journeys. The hosts share their personal experiences with different content creators while offering insights into which resources might be most valuable for listeners at different stages of their polyamorous exploration.The discussion weaves through various social media accounts that offer everything from therapeutic perspectives to practical advice about polyamorous relationships. The hosts highlight accounts like TherapyJeff, Millennial.Therapist, SteadyPolyamory, Ready for Polyamory, Polyfamory, and Chill Polyamory, discussing how each offers unique insights into different aspects of ethical non-monogamy. They also candidly address some content creators they've found less helpful or potentially problematic, helping listeners navigate the vast landscape of poly resources.The conversation extends beyond social media to explore influential books like "The Ethical Slut," "Polysecure," and "Polywise," as well as podcasts such as MultiAmory, Remodeled Love, and Normalizing Nonmonogamy. The hosts also discuss various online communities, including Discord channels and Facebook groups, while offering practical advice about finding local poly communities and navigating online spaces safely and effectively.Social Media Accounts:Therapy JeffMillennial TherapistSteadyPolyamoryReady for PolyamoryPolyfamoryRemodeled LovePolyphiliaChill PolyamoryAnnie UndonePoly.LoversPolylokiiInfinitePolyamOpen RelatingDana and the WolfPolyAmFamResources Mentioned (affiliate links):- "The Ethical Slut" by Janet Hardy and Dossie Easton- "Polysecure" by Jessica Fern- "Polywise" by Jessica Fern- "Love" by Leo Buscaglia- "Living, Loving, and Learning" by Leo Buscaglia- "Open Deeply" by Kate Loree- "Monogamy in this Economy" by Laura Boyle- "More than Two" by Eve Rickert- "Polyamory in Parenthood" by Jessica and Joseph Daylover- "The Topping Book" and "The Bottoming Book" by Janet Hardy and Dossie EastonOther Podcasts:- MultiAmory Podcast- Remodeled Love- Normalizing Non-Monogamy- We Can Do Hard Things (specific episodes on relationships)- 2BeBetterQuestions We Answer:Where should I start if I'm new to learning about polyamory?Are all polyamory resources equally valuable?What resources are available for polyamorous parents?How can I find my local polyamory community?What are some good resources for understanding attachment and security in polyamorous relationships?Are there resources available for specific relationship structures or situations?How can I verify if a polyamory resource is reliable?Where can I find regular updates about polyamory news and research?

Website: polypathwayspodcast.transistor.fmYouTube: @polypathwayspodcastInstagram: @polypathwayspodcastTikTok: @polypathwayspodcastIn this intimate bonus episode of Poly Pathways Podcast, co-host Doc shares his deeply personal journey into polyamory, which began in the aftermath of his long-term marriage ending during the pandemic. Through therapy and self-reflection, Doc began to recognize a pattern of what his co-host Kat calls "confusing connections" throughout his life – moments when his capacity to love multiple people conflicted with the constraints of traditional monogamy. The dissolution of his marriage, coupled with meeting a partner who introduced him to polyamory and reconnecting with his friend Kat, created a synchronicity of revelation.Doc's story illuminates the complex transition from a mononormative worldview to embracing polyamory later in life. He candidly discusses how the societal pressure to maintain exclusive relationships led to painful situations where he violated relationship agreements, causing hurt that he continues to work through. The discovery of polyamory provided him with a framework to understand his natural inclination toward multiple loving relationships, describing it as having "a cloak of monogamy" lifted from his shoulders.While acknowledging that he isn't "perfect in polyamory," Doc emphasizes the joy and fulfillment he's found in building a community of mutual support and love. His journey resonates with many who come to polyamory after years of monogamous living, grappling with similar confusion and challenges. The episode serves as both a personal testimony and an invitation to others exploring non-traditional relationship structures.Key Questions We Answer:What led Doc to discover polyamory?Was Doc unfaithful in previous relationships?How did Doc transition from monogamy to polyamory?What are "confusing connections"?Does Doc consider himself an expert in polyamory?What's the main message of this origin story?

Hosts: Kat and DocWebsite: polypathwayspodcast.transistor.fmYouTube: @polypathwayspodcastInstagram: @polypathwayspodcastTikTok: @polypathwayspodcastIn this introductory episode of Poly Pathways, hosts Kat and Doc introduce themselves as polyamorous individuals who, while not partnered with each other, bring unique perspectives to polyamory discussions. Both hosts share their journey of recognizing their polyamorous identities, with Kat identifying as demisexual/bisexual/pansexual with ADHD, and Doc identifying as demisexual. They emphasize their approach to polyamory as just one aspect of their identities rather than their entire personality.The hosts discuss how recent global events, particularly the post-pandemic period, have led many to question traditional relationship structures and seek deeper emotional connections. They position themselves as resources for those exploring polyamory, offering practical advice based on their personal experiences, mistakes, and successes. Their perspective is particularly unique as they represent polyamorous individuals who maintain conventional lives while practicing ethical non-monogamy.The podcast will release biweekly episodes covering various topics including dating, trust, family issues, finances, and relationship repair. Future episodes will delve deeper into the hosts' personal polyamory journeys and provide practical guidance for navigating polyamorous relationships.Resources Mentioned: (affiliate links)Living Loving and Learning by Leo Buscaglia | Amazon | Bookshop.orgLove: What Life is All About by Leo Buscaglia | Amazon | Bookshop.orgPolysecure: Attachment, Trauma and Consensual Nonmonogamy by Jessica Fern  | Amazon | Bookshop.orgPolywise: A Deeper Dive into Navigating Open Relationships by Jessica Fern | Amazon | Bookshop.orgKey Questions We Answer:What makes Poly Pathways different from other polyamory podcasts?Do I need to be actively polyamorous to benefit from this podcast?What topics will the podcast cover?What are the hosts' backgrounds and identifications?