Let's Talk Polyamory Podcast

Most people don’t realize how easily they derail the conversations that matter most, until they learn what to look for.In Part 2 of this series, we unpack the hidden patterns that quietly sabotage connection, like kitchen sinking, labeling, interrupting, blaming, mind reading, layering, and passive-aggressive habits. More importantly, we show you how to recognize these patterns in real time and shift them into clear, grounded, and effective communication.We also explore how outside influences, like stress, emotional triggers, and past experiences can take over your conversations without you even noticing. From there, we guide you back to presence, empathy, and solution-focused dialogue using practical, easy-to-apply tools.You’ll learn frameworks like Non-Violent Communication (NVC) and our Attunement Communication Method™, designed to help you move from conflict to connection, without losing your voice.If you’re tired of feeling unheard, misunderstood, or stuck in the same arguments, this episode offers a clear path forward. Honest, effective communication isn’t just a “nice to have”, it’s the foundation of strong, thriving relationships, especially in non-monogamous dynamics where trust and transparency matter deeply.Whether you have a partner, dating or single, this episode will help you break negative cycles and build more authentic, connected conversations.And if you want to go deeper, join T&A live for Deep Dive Thursdays at the Mermaid Lounge on May 14 at 8PM for a special talk: The Other Sexy Talk: More Foreplay for Better Sex. Details and tickets available at: https://thexclub.net/event_description.php?event=697Resources:Get our free How to Shift From Destructive to Effective Communication Worksheet - https://worksheet.letstalkpolyamory.com/communicationworksheet Looking for community? Join our Let's Talk Polyamory private Facebook group - ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/letstalkpoly⁠New and looking to build a secure foundation including how to effectively communicate with your partners? Our Poly Newbies Digital Course is for you! Get it for only $97 for a limited time for our listeners- https://courses.letstalkpolyamory.com/polynewbiesspecialoffer Looking for therapy? Arrange a complimentary therapy consultation with André at ⁠https://book.a-psych-online.com/therapyconsultation⁠ Book a complimentary coaching consultation call with Tara at: ⁠⁠https://go.taraandandre.com/relationshiprescue⁠⁠

Planning a trip and your'e non-monogamous?Traveling comes with its own unique dynamics and things to plan for, whether you're heading out on a solo adventure or exploring with a partner or partners. In this episode, we dive into what that really looks like, and how those experiences can expand not just your world, but your relationships too.We talk about:Traveling together vs. taking solo vacationsHow (and where) you might meet people while awayWhat happens when you do meet someone you likeThe conversations and agreements that matter, before and during your tripHow boundaries, expectations, and connection can shift when you're out of your normal environmentWe also share our personal experiences and practical insights around communication, honesty, safety, and staying grounded in your relationships, no matter where you are in the world.And of course, how we make traveling fun—because yes, you can have adventure and emotional security.✈️ Your action list if you're planning travel:Practice honest communication about travel plans and personal boundariesGet clear on agreements, especially if they may shift while you're awayPrioritize safety and STI testing when meeting new partnersStay open to spontaneity while staying aligned with your valuesMake space for both connection and independenceShow Resources:We love travelling using Home Exchange as it allows us to travel economically and stay in amazing places in exchange for our home - use this link to get 250 bonus points when you sign up (that's a 2 night stay in most places - ⁠https://www.homeexchange.com/?sponsorkey=taraandandre-cbef0 ⁠Looking for community? Join our Let's Talk Polyamory private Facebook group - ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/letstalkpoly⁠New and looking to build a secure foundation? Our Poly Newbies Digital Course is for you! Get it for only $97 for a limited time for our listeners- https://courses.letstalkpolyamory.com/polynewbiesspecialoffer Want to learn more about travel - Check out our episode we recorded while on our East Coast road trip: Carversations: Travelling When Polyamorous or Open - https://open.spotify.com/episode/5KIL4RSyr4T7sZymJLjxbD?si=mZsxR5oiSyCE2iZRSIcTNA

We are back with another instalment of our T&A Alphabet Series and this one is all about the letter S!We give you: S is For Everything You Wanted to Know About Sexual Issues But Were Afraid to Ask!Sexual issues are something so many people experience—but few people actually talk about.In this episode, we open up the conversation around sex, desire, identity, and connection—sharing both insights and our own real-life experiences along the way.We cover:✨ What sexual apathy actually is—and why low desire isn’t always a problem ✨ The many emotional, physical, and relational factors that can impact sex drive ✨ Desire discrepancies in relationships and how to navigate them collaboratively ✨ The spectrum of sexual identity, orientation, and expression ✨ Why sexual health matters ✨ Common causes of sexual anxiety and how communication can shift everythingSexuality isn’t one-size-fits-all—it exists on a spectrum, and what feels right will look different for everyone.As always, we come back to one of the most powerful tools in any relationship:💬 Talk about it.Open, honest communication—with your partners and with professionals—can change everything.If something in this episode resonates with you and you want support navigating it, you’re always welcome to reach out. We’re here to help you take your next step. Links below to connect.Show Resources:Looking for therapy? Arrange a complimentary therapy consultation with André at ⁠⁠https://book.a-psych-online.com/therapyconsultation⁠⁠ Book a complimentary coaching consultation call with Tara at: ⁠⁠⁠https://go.taraandandre.com/relationshiprescue⁠⁠⁠The Cervix Wand - for vaginal de-armoring and anal massage, cervical and g-spot stimulation. ⁠https://waands.com/products/cervix-wand?ref=taraandandre⁠ - use code TARALYNNEFRANCO to get 10% off or use this link for any item in the store - ⁠https://waands.com/discount/TARALYNNEFRANCO?ref=taraandandre⁠Poly Newbies Digital Course Listener Offer - ⁠https://courses.letstalkpolyamory.com/polynewbiesspecialoffer⁠The Little Book of Poly Love 💖 Join the waitlist to be the first to know when it’s published and pops into the world: ⁠⁠https://go.letstalkpolyamory.com/polylovebook-waitlist⁠

We’re back with another episode of our T&A Alphabet Series!This is an all-new episode on the letter R — and you’re REALLY going to REVEL in this jam-packed conversation.We’re covering a range of relationship, sex and polyamory/non-monogamy terms grouped into three themes:Relationships & relationship structuresSexual and erotic termsEmotional and psychological termsIt’s a truly robust episode filled with really helpful R words like:Relationship Anarchy (RA)Relationship EscalatorReciprocityRimmingRadical HonestyReassuranceRepairResentmentWe cover over 20 different words — with deeper dives into topics like relationship agreements and relationship reviews using the RAADAR method, rope play (Shibari), and responsive desire.Get ready for a rich, reflective, and maybe even a little risqué ride through the Rs.Many of the words we explore here (and throughout our T&A Alphabet Series) are also part of our upcoming project, The Little Book of Poly Love 💖 Join the waitlist to be the first to know when it’s published and pops into the world: ⁠https://go.letstalkpolyamory.com/polylovebook-waitlist⁠Show Resources:Rich Relationships: Building Your Million Dollar Network. Book by Selena Soo - Looking for therapy? Arrange a complimentary therapy consultation with André at ⁠https://book.a-psych-online.com/therapyconsultation⁠ Book a complimentary coaching consultation call with Tara at: ⁠⁠https://go.taraandandre.com/relationshiprescue⁠⁠Poly Newbies Digital Course Listener Offer - https://courses.letstalkpolyamory.com/polynewbiesspecialoffer

We’re back with another playful, passionate, and slightly provocative instalment of our much-loved T&A Alphabet Series!These episodes originally began as live trainings inside our Let’s Talk Polyamory private Facebook community, and this one has been freshly updated and pleasantly packed just for you.In this episode, we dive playfully into the letter P — and as the title suggests, it’s not just about polyamory. Oh no. It’s a plentiful, punchy, and sometimes polarizing collection of P words that show up in conversations about relationships, sex, and non-monogamy.Here’s a taste of what we cover:PolyamoryPolysaturatedPolygamy & PolyandryPower dynamicsPrimary partnerPansexualParaphiliaAnd if you patiently persevere to the end… the sexiest P words make an appearance too 🔥Think PIV, promiscuity, period sex, and more.Preparing for this episode was pure pleasure given the practically limitless P words we could have covered. Not all of them made it into the podcast — so yes, this episode is “just the tip.” 😏Many of the words we explore here (and throughout our T&A Alphabet Series) are also part of our upcoming project, The Little Book of Poly Love 💖 Join the waitlist to be the first to know when it’s published and pops into the world:https://go.letstalkpolyamory.com/polylovebook-waitlist📖 Chapters00:00 Introduction to Polyamory and P Words01:30 Understanding Polyamory and Its Types03:18 Exploring Polyfidelity and Polycules06:02 Defining Poly Intimates and Polysaturation08:06 Polyamory Under Duress09:52 Primary Partners and Power Dynamics13:50 Pansexuality and Paraphilia Explained15:54 Passive Aggressive and Direct16:46 Sexual Terms: PIV, PIA, and PIM17:41 Promiscuity: Gender Perspectives and Cultural Views20:14 Play and Period Sex: Breaking Taboos23:36 The P-Spot and Male PleasureShow Resources:Poly Newbies Digital Course – Listener OfferA practical, supportive place for the poly-curious, poly-new, and poly-questioninghttps://courses.letstalkpolyamory.com/polynewbiesspecialofferLooking for therapy?Arrange a complimentary therapy consultation with André:https://book.a-psych-online.com/therapyconsultationWant personalized coaching support?Book a complimentary coaching consultation with Tara:https://go.taraandandre.com/relationshiprescue

We’re back with another juicy instalment of our T&A Alphabet Series! Many of these episodes began as live trainings inside our Let’s Talk Polyamory private Facebook community, and this one has been freshly re-recorded, updated, and expanded just for you.In this episode, we dive into the letter O — and yes, we save the biggest O for last 😉O is for Open Relating, Orgasms, Oral, and Other Ohs…We explore a wide range of O topics while providing thoughtful insights into each one, with a strong emphasis on consent, communication, and understanding. Along the way, we share personal experiences and offer practical, real-world advice to help you deepen intimacy, navigate complexity, and enhance pleasure in your relationships in ways that feel aligned and sustainable.This episode covers:Open Relating – what it really means in practiceOrgies – including consent in group settingsOut & Outed – navigating visibility, disclosure, and choiceObligations – exploring both external expectations and self-imposed pressureOral & Outercourse – expanding pleasure beyond penetration and performanceAnd finally, our perfectly timed CLIMAX: ORGASMS ✨We talk about what orgasms actually are, different types of orgasms, what happens in the body when we orgasm, facts and myths, faking it, common challenges, and what you can do to increase pleasure — with or without orgasm as the goal.Equal parts educational, playful, and grounding, this episode supports listeners who are exploring relationship dynamics, strengthening intimacy, or simply wanting better conversations about sex, pleasure, and connection.📖 Episode Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview02:22 Open Relating Definition03:10 Orgies & Consent04:48 Being Out and Outed 09:08 Understanding Obligations in Relationships09:55 Oral Sex 12:37 Outer Course 14:46 Understanding Orgasms & The Types of Orgasms20:56 What Happens to Your Brain & Body During Orgasm24:23 Studies and Facts about Orgasms30:22 Faking It34:00 Techniques for Enhancing Pleasure 37:58 Sensate Focus and Intimacy 39:45 The Importance Self-Exploration & Masterbation42:08 Conclusion and Call to ActionShow Resources:Poly Newbies Digital Course Listener Offer - https://courses.letstalkpolyamory.com/polynewbiesspecialofferLooking for therapy? Arrange a complimentary therapy consultation with André at ⁠https://book.a-psych-online.com/therapyconsultation⁠ Book a complimentary coaching consultation call with Tara at: ⁠⁠https://go.taraandandre.com/relationshiprescue⁠⁠C is for Consensual Non-Monogamy episode - https://open.spotify.com/episode/4QjdNH6LdaYqOgFaaFMqja?si=FBh6ICbDQB-Fgo9SUd6jhA How We Love: What Style of Non-Monogamy is for Me? https://open.spotify.com/episode/2wQiiMrHCFltYorI7bdEGs?si=2rVxqTliScODBUqIJ4TuMA What Style of Non-Monogamy is for Me Free Worksheet - https://worksheet.letstalkpolyamory.com/cnmstyle Why Enthusiastic Consent is So Important - https://open.spotify.com/episode/2RzCDuhK9yMM3GgkU5ebPg?si=C87tjthIRY2Ro8KANTnE_w A is for Anorgasmia Episode - https://open.spotify.com/episode/1oBt1yFEfFsnCUGzTRmF8p?si=Nyjkx7KeRc6YZns0wxdjKQ How to Talk to Family About Being Polyamorous - Tara & Andre preparing for Tara’s coming out to parents - https://youtu.be/UxYecGOZ3WY?si=VzvgfmS8SSuuufqB 3 Minute Game - https://www.schoolofconsent.org/blog/3-minute-game Sensate Focus Article - https://www.smsna.org/patients/did-you-know/what-is-sensate-focus-and-how-does-it-work

We’re back with another episode of our T&A Alphabet Series!These episodes were originally delivered as live trainings on Mondays inside our Let’s Talk Polyamory private Facebook community, and over the last few months we’ve been uploading them to all major podcast platforms.Today’s episode is all about the letter M — and it’s a good one.We’re diving into: M is for the 5 Ways to Make Sure Your COMMUNICATION Isn’t MISCOMMUNICATION.In this episode, we explore:The core components of successful communication.How to break old or unhelpful communication habits and replace them with patterns that actually work.Why getting “heated” or “upset” is valuable information — uncomfortable, yes, but often pointing us toward something meaningful to unpack after the moment passes.Active listening: how to become better listeners and how to recognize when we aren’t.Communication models we love, including the Interactional Model.Practical, real-life examples of how to become a clearer, more effective communicator.How to approach more challenging conversations and invite true dialogue.The importance of being clear, honest, and direct.What happens when we hold things in instead of expressing them.How trust and rapport are built through communication.How your beliefs, interpretations, and assumptions shape the way you show up in conversation.Progressive Communication: what it is, and how to use it to move conversations forward instead of repeating the same loops.What to do when someone comes into a conversation already feeling defensive.And how to use “breaks” effectively.We also share an analogy that highlights the difference between genuine communication and miscommunication, plus a personal example of a moment between us where emotions were high and things got a little “heated” — and what we learned from it.Want to hear T&A live?Join us on December 10, 2025 for Reconnect Wednesday at the Mermaid Lounge just outside Toronto. Learn more about the Mermaid Lounge at mermaidlounge.ca. Grab tickets at thexclub.net/event_description.php?event=452Show Resources:Feeld Dating Site - https://feeld.co/ Dr. Amy Corey - Evolution of Human Communication - From Theory to Practice - article - https://www.scribd.com/document/535619793/Communication-By-Dr-Amy-M-CoreyLooking for support working through your communication patterns or other issues? Arrange a complimentary therapy consultation with André at ⁠https://book.a-psych-online.com/therapyconsultation⁠ or book a complimentary coaching consultation call with Tara at: ⁠⁠https://go.taraandandre.com/relationshiprescue⁠⁠Let’s Talk Polyamory Facebook Group & Community - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/letstalkpoly⁠⁠⁠

Ever wondered what it’s really like to go to a sex or lifestyle club for the first time — and what to do to prepare? Or maybe you’ve been before and the experience wasn’t what you hoped?In this special episode Tara is live on location at the Mermaid Lounge just outside Toronto, Ontario, joined by Event Host Amy,!Together, they explore what to expect when visiting a lifestyle space — from atmosphere and etiquette to safety, consent, and connection.You’ll get an insider tour of the newly renovated Mermaid Lounge and adjoining X-Club and hear practical guidance for what to do before, during, and after your visit to spaces like these so the experience feels positive, secure, and aligned with your personal values and boundaries.Included in this discussion is how to plan before the event with a partner — including what scenarios you’re open to exploring and how you’ll check-in throughout the visit and communicate if one of you feels uncomfortable or needs support once you’re there. Even with the best planning, emotions can arise, so having a shared plan for navigating them helps everyone feel safe and connected.Whether you’re curious, nervous, or simply exploring new sides of your sexuality, this episode will help you feel prepared and confident.🎧 Tune in for:A guided tour of the Mermaid LoungeTips for your first (or next) lifestyle club experienceConsent, communication, and aftercare insightsHow to plan ahead, check in, and debrief after attendingDetails on T&A’s live talk on December 10: The 7-Step Securely Non-Monogamous FrameworkShow Resources:Mermaid Lounge hours, facilities, tickets and info available at: https://mermaidlounge.ca/Join us for our LIVE Talk December 10 for Reconnect Wednesday - info & Tickets at: -https://www.thexclub.net/event_description.php?event=452 Podcast Episode: H is for Sexual Health & Hair: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7nOEQfbBcH8EXx1XItHdKF?si=wAnUraOnQAKffvD8kkXCKw Podcast Episode: STI Testing and Acceptable Risk - https://open.spotify.com/episode/2qjpsoc3tY2Ea1lE4yaLVE?si=JqmlxdQ4QLW2eZVvSbNRWwAdd clubs you've visited to T&A's Sex Clubs and Destinations Around the World List - https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1t8DzYsOJSQ0g1cboAuBl_ibFYQGwpHoiEO-JdriKUjA/edit?usp=sharing

In this episode, Tara sits down with Darryl Rosengreen, VP of Marketing and Promotion—and one of the owners—of The Taboo Show, to explore breaking taboos in sex and relationships.Together, they talk about how events like The Taboo Show create safe, inclusive spaces for people to learn, explore, and get curious about sexuality, kink, and relationships. Tara and Darryl share how these environments can inspire conversations you may not have had before—or didn’t know how to start—and help normalize talking about sex, sexuality, and intimacy in fun and educational ways.💬 In this episode:Why breaking taboos helps create healthier, more open relationshipsHow exploring sexuality can spark new conversations and self-discoveryWhat to expect at The Taboo Show (and why it’s a safe, educational, and fun space)The importance of normalizing conversations about sex and relationships✨ Catch us live at Taboo!T&A will be at Booth 322 at the Toronto Taboo Show, October 17–19, 2025. We'll also be speaking on Friday at 6:30 PM and Saturday at 8:30 PM on Non-Monogamy Essentials: Making it Secure, Satisfying, and Sexy!🎟️ We’re also doing a draw for free tickets to the show! Enter at https://events.letstalkpolyamory.com/taboo2025draw before October 12 for your chance to win.📖 Episode Chapters:00:00 — Introduction to Taboo Topics in Relationships03:46 — Exploring Taboos in Sex and Relationships07:56 — The Taboo Show Experience13:51 — Breaking Down Taboos Around Sex 16:46 — Advice for First-Time AttendeesShow Resources:Taboo Show - https://tabooshow.com/ Enter to WIN free tickets to the Toronto show - https://events.letstalkpolyamory.com/taboo2025draw Me B4 We Intimacy Coaching - https://linktr.ee/meb4wePoly Newbies Digital Course Listener Offer - https://courses.letstalkpolyamory.com/polynewbiesspecialofferLooking for therapy? Arrange a complimentary therapy consultation with Andre at https://book.a-psych-online.com/therapyconsultationBook a complimentary coaching consultation call with Tara at: ⁠https://go.taraandandre.com/relationshiprescue⁠

We’re back with our T&A Alphabet Series! These episodes were originally live trainings in our Let’s Talk Polyamory private Facebook group. Over the last few months, we’ve been uploading them onto podcast platforms, but this time we’re bringing you a brand new episode.Today’s episode is all about the letter K! We bring you: K is for Kink, Kitchen Table Polyamory & Kissing + Other K WordsHere’s what we cover in this episode:Kink – what it is, common myths about it, how it differs from a fetish, where BDSM fits in, types of kink, and the importance of communication, consent and safetyKitchen Table Polyamory and why it isn’t the ideal or only way to do polyamoryKissing – including André’s story of being taught to “kiss like you’re eating a peach,” and how some relationships have rules around kissing and how to tell someone if you don’t like how someone kisses.Knights – not the armor-wearing kind, but staying the night or going on a vacation with another partner and how some specify where some people might have rules around where these overnights can happen.Kites & Strings – as a dynamic between two people (which we did a whole podcast on)Kuddling – when why & cuddling matters plus cuddle partiesKidversations – talking to kids about sex, identity, relationships and non-monogamy in a way that’s open but also age-appropriate so that they can be safe and consent.Kama Sutra - the art of living and loving well, and not just a sexual gymnastics manualAnd a few others! We also slide in some other topics like vetos, consent, communication, poly-saturated, metamours and more!What did we miss? Let us know in the comments!✨ Bonus: We’re also linking our original K is for Kink talk in the show notes, where we go much deeper into all things kink, including how to get started if you’re curious.Want more? Sign up to be the first to know when our Little Book of Poly Love is released—a pocket-sized guide to the words and wisdom that make relationships work. https://go.letstalkpolyamory.com/polylovebook-waitlist⁠⁠Show Resources:K is for Kink YouTube Talk with Patric - https://www.youtube.com/live/2_v8nPMRa5c?si=AB1633gUoKiWtMW_BDSM Checklist - Do not complete this form! This is an example only - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfGEjHQBWLCqFQB2oAJZuzkjIlBuXyUX2xf-TVIAWQZOU5juQ/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=103121892334923731334 BDSM Test - https://bdsmtest.org/select-lang Episode 28: Kites and Strings: Relationship Roles and Dynamics in Non-Monogamy - https://open.spotify.com/episode/4rDUwXR9jkwxUDMDBXusF7?si=xSvL6lh4Qfi4hqgT44o1xgEpisode 33: What to Say? How to Talk to Kids About Non-Monogamy, Sex, Kink and Other Stuff with Ms. Ashley Robertson - https://open.spotify.com/episode/4mNuk3UkfqUJGWV79BnA4S?si=g8oCKb5rS6KdIqzdQXWVJw FetLife Social Network for the BDSM, Fetish & Kinky Community - https://fetlife.com/Oasis Aqualounge Sex Club Toronto - https://oasisaqualounge.com/ Taboo: Everything to Do About Sex Show Toronto - https://tabooshow.com/toronto Complete this form to be added to our mailing list - https://www.taraandandre.com/#section-udHUURtgCy Poly Newbies Digital Course Listener Offer - https://courses.letstalkpolyamory.com/polynewbiesspecialofferLooking for therapy? Arrange a complimentary therapy consultation with Andre at https://book.a-psych-online.com/therapyconsultation or book a complimentary coaching consultation call with Tara at: ⁠https://go.taraandandre.com/relationshiprescue⁠Let’s Talk Polyamory Facebook Group & Community - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/letstalkpoly⁠⁠⁠

In this episode we’re digging into the archives to bring you a conversation that originally aired live in our Let’s Talk Polyamory private Facebook group. Since Facebook now only stores live videos for 30 days, we’re working behind the scenes to download and share some of those gems here on the podcast.In this episode, we dive into a question we hear all the time: How do I attract (and keep) better poly partners?Whether you’re new to non-monogamy or have been dating for a while, this episode is full of insight, real stories, and practical tools. We talk about: How we might be perceived on dating apps when we list “non-monogamous” in our profileThe (hilarious) story of our first date and what our initial reactions wereWe also share how our Securely Polyamorous Framework—which we teach in our course and coaching program—applies directly to dating and the process of meeting and keeping great partners. We explore things like communication attunement, knowing what you want, setting personal boundaries, creating values-based agreements and nurturing connections that are built to last.And if you’ve ever found yourself attracting people who aren’t a fit (or who vanish after a great first date), we talk about the unconscious ways that might be happening—and what you can do to shift it.🎁 BONUS! This week, we’re sharing our Online Dating Guide which includes:✅ A list of our favourite dating sites for non-monogamous folks✅ Tips for writing a standout profile✅ An online dating checklist✅ Links to related trainings and podcasts👉Download it for free here: ⁠https://go.letstalkpolyamory.com/onlinedatingguide⁠💬 Want to connect with others who get it? Join our private Facebook group:🔗 ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/letstalkpolyamory⁠⚡️ Curious about Coaching? Sign up for a Pay What You Can Coaching Call with Tara at:🔗 ⁠https://go.taraandandre.com/pwyccoachingsession⁠ ⚡️Looking for Therapy? Book a complimentary therapy consultation with André Turcotte at ⁠https://book.a-psych-online.com/therapyconsultation⁠ ✨You can also explore other ways to work with us as well as access other great resources at:🔗 ⁠https://www.taraandandre.com⁠

Feeling disconnected or depleted in your long-term relationship while totally lit up by someone new? You're not broken—and neither is your relationship. This is a natural progression of relationships, but it doesn't have to be the death knell!In this episode of the Let’s Talk Polyamory Podcast, we explore what happens when burnout shows up in your long-term relationship—often the one where you share a home, kids, responsibilities or calendar—while you’re riding the high of New Relationship Energy (NRE) somewhere else. Inspired by a recent CNN article and relationship expert Esther Perel’s insights, we unpack the real causes of burnout: emotional labor, domestic imbalance, identity loss, over-functioning, and the exhaustion of being the constant container for your partner’s emotions.We also share our own personal stories about what helps us keep our long-term relationship feeling playful, connected, and fresh—even while managing real-life stressors. From RAADAR Relationship Reviews and quality time rituals, to creating intentional transitions around new connections, we’ll walk you through practical ways to rekindle the energy you crave—including simple habits backed by research, like the Gottmans’ 5:1 ratio of positive to negative interactions that helps relationships stay strong and emotionally resilient.In this episode, we cover:💡 What burnout really looks like in long-term relationships🧯 The top causes of relationship fatigue (hint: it’s not just about desire)💘 Why NRE feels so good—and how to channel that energy intentionally into other relationship🛠️ Tools for making LRE feel exciting again (without pretending it’s brand new)👫 Our own practices for keeping long-term love feeling alive💌 Ready for deeper support? Check out our Poly Newbies Digital Course or join us in the next round of our Polyamory Mastery Program. Links in the show resources below👇Show Resources:CNN Article about Relationship burnout: https://www.cnn.com/2025/05/03/health/relationship-burnout-wellness Want to know more about NRE? Check out the episode, New Relationship Energy: The Awesome & The Awful - https://open.spotify.com/episode/6IbCK3XZ1louXULbFvAwyR?si=pvkCoL8XRJCKBXjhZ-_fqg How Can I Hit the Reset Button and Free Myself From Resentments (YouTube) - https://youtu.be/au6-N8qZTDU?si=PZknyyGE8r_15ASp Looking for therapy? Reach out to host André Turcotte and arrange a complimentary therapy consultation at andreturcottepsych@gmail.comBook a complimentary coaching consultation call with Tara at: ⁠https://go.taraandandre.com/relationshiprescue⁠Let’s Talk Polyamory Facebook Group & Community - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/letstalkpoly⁠⁠⁠Want to have wildly successful, secure and sexy non-monogamous relationships? Join us for the Poly Newbies Digital Course - https://courses.letstalkpolyamory.com/polynewbiesspecialofferWant a deeper dive, customized program with more direct support from T&A, join us in Polyamory Mastery - https://go.taraandandre.com/polyamorymastery

In 1997, psychologists Arthur Aron and Elaine Aron published the results of a study in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin exploring how emotional intimacy between strangers could be accelerated through structured vulnerability. Their method? A series of 36 questions, divided into three sets that become increasingly personal—and it worked.The list became more widely known in 2015 when writer Mandy Len Catron shared her experience with the questions in her viral New York Times article, “To Fall in Love With Anyone, Do This.” She tried the questions herself—and fell in love.But what happens after you fall in love?We recently revisited the original 36 questions as a couple, and while we loved the experience, we felt there were some essential conversations these questions didn't cover, especially if you’re planning to live together, share a life, or deepen a long-term relationship .The result...our own follow-up list: The Other 36 Questions You Need to Ask to Stay in LoveThese are questions we believe every couple (or triad, or quad!) should ask—regardless of how you identify across the spectrum of monogamy to non-monogamy.Here’s what we felt was missing—and what we intentionally added:🩺 Health & Safety: Physical and emotional safety, mental health, STI conversations, trauma history, and comfort with firearms in the home.💰 Money & Lifestyle: Attitudes toward debt, sharing finances, who pays for what, and what fairness looks like.💬 Communication & Conflict: Not just can you talk about hard things—but how you do it.❤️ Relationships, Intimacy & Vulnerability: Relationship style, love languages, attachment and honest💋 Sex, Desire & Kinks: Real talk about pleasure, fantasy, limits, and how sexuality evolves over time.🏡 Habits & Everyday Stuff: Morning routines, animals in bed, bodily quirks.👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family & Culture: Navigating traditions, holidays and family🌍 Life Experience & Growth: Travel, independence, firsts, and life lessons as a lens for compatibility.In this episode, we share our experience answering the original 36 questions together, highlight a few of our favourite prompts and how we answered them, and introduce you to our full list of additions—including why we believe they matter!📝 Free Resource: We created a downloadable one-pager with all 72 questions—the original 36 plus our “Other 36”—grouped by theme, so you can explore them at your own pace.https://worksheet.letstalkpolyamory.com/36plus36questionsWhether you're starting something new or rekindling a long-term relationship, these questions are a powerful way to build deeper intimacy, open honest conversations, and get to know your partner(s) on a whole new level.Show Resources:The 36 Questions that May Lead To Love + T&A’s Other 36 Questions You Need to Ask to Stay in Love Download - https://worksheet.letstalkpolyamory.com/36plus36questionsGottman: The 5 to 1 Relationship Ratio - https://www.gottman.com/blog/the-magic-relationship-ratio-according-science/ Looking for support but want to do it at your own pace? Check out our Poly Newbies Digital Course - https://courses.letstalkpolyamory.com/polynewbiescourseBook a complimentary coaching consultation call with Tara at: ⁠https://go.taraandandre.com/relationshiprescue⁠Email André to arrange a complimentary therapy consultation at: ⁠andreturcottepsych@gmail.com⁠ Let’s Talk Polyamory Facebook Group & Community - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/letstalkpoly⁠⁠⁠Join the waitlist and be the first to find out when our Little Book of Poly Love is out with all the HOT words from A-Z! ⁠⁠https://go.letstalkpolyamory.com/polylovebook-waitlist⁠