Poly Pathways

About Poly Pathways

Creating Paths for Practical Polyamory with Kat & Doc Our podcast is dedicated to providing grounded guidance for anyone navigating polyamory. Here, you’ll find episodes focused on real-life polyamory topics like communication, scheduling, family dynamics, setting boundaries, and building resilience in relationships. Whether you’re new to polyamory or have been practicing for years, we hope to help you create fulfilling, balanced, and purposeful polyamorous relationships in everyday life.

Publisher

Kat & Doc

Category

society & culture · society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

Yes

First episode

2 Jan 2025

Latest episode

18 Jul 2025

Latest episodes

19 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   18 Jul 2025

   Letting Partners In: Overcoming Hyperindependence & Codependence in Polyamory

   Hosts Kat and Doc explore overcoming hyperindependence and codependence in polyamory, revealing how accepting care strengthens intimacy and trust.

2. 

   4 Jul 2025

   Hinge Diaries: Enjoying, Managing, and Flourishing When You're Dating Multiple Partners

   Hosts Kat and Doc explore the complexities of being a "hinge" in polyamorous relationships, discussing emotional management, communication, and societal perceptions, in this interview episode.

3. 

   20 Jun 2025

   What About the Children? Talking to your Children about Polyamory

   Hosts Kat and Doc explore the complexities of raising children in polyamorous families, offering practical advice on communication, managing social judgment, and building stable family dynamics in this episode.

4. 

   6 Jun 2025

   I'm Coming Out - How, When, and To Whom Should You Tell People You're Poly

   Hosts Kat and Doc explore the multifaceted considerations of disclosing one's polyamorous identity, weighing emotional safety, social implications, and strategic disclosure to navigate a mononormative world.

5. 

   23 May 2025

   They Did What Without You!? FOMO, Polyamory, and Finding Your Happiness

   Hosts Kat and Doc explore how FOMO manifests in polyamorous relationships, examining triggers like comparison and insecurity, and provide tools for building emotional resilience in this interview episode.

6. 

   9 May 2025

   Bright & Beautiful Comets! Navigating Polyamory's Intermittent Relationships

   Hosts Kat and Doc interview each other about navigating intermittent "comet" relationships, offering strategies for communication and managing expectations in polyamory.

7. 

   25 Apr 2025

   Warning! Poly Memes and Media Might be Hurting You and Yours

   Hosts Kat and Doc interview each other about how polyamory memes and media portrayals impact relationships, offering insights to navigate online content critically.

8. 

   11 Apr 2025

   Check In Or Check Out! - Relationship Check Ins are Essential Polyamory

   Hosts Kat and Doc interview each other about essential relationship check-ins, sharing practical strategies for enhancing connection and stability in polyamory.

9. 

   28 Mar 2025

   Poly Mom Life & Friends

   Host Kat and expert guest man! explore the struggle of maintaining personal identity amidst motherhood's labels, offering insight for those feeling confined by societal roles.

10. 

    28 Mar 2025

    Conflict! Navigating, Resolving, and Recovering in Poly

    Host Kat interviews certified polyamory relationship coach man! about navigating, resolving, and recovering from conflict in non-monogamous relationships, offering practical strategies for growth.

11. 

    14 Mar 2025

    Should You Be Out as Polyamorous at Work? Being a Professional and Poly Person

    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 Podcast Hosts: Kat and Doc Website: polypathwayspodcast.transistor.fm (https://polypathwayspodcast.transistor.fm/) YouTube: @polypathwayspodcast (http://www.youtube.com/@polypathwayspodcast) Instagram: @polypathwayspodcast (http://www.instagram.com/polypathwayspodcast) TikTok: @polypathwayspodcast (http://www.tiktok.com/polypathwayspodcast) Resources (affiliate links) • Magic AI  (https://getmagic.com/referral?_by=63rfd)– 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? (00:00) - - Intro (01:14) - - Considering Relationship Status in the Workplace (34:28) - - Homefront Considerations

12. 

    28 Feb 2025

    How Much is Too Much? Let's Talk About Saturation

    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 Podcast Hosts: Kat and Doc Website: polypathwayspodcast.transistor.fm (https://polypathwayspodcast.transistor.fm/) YouTube: @polypathwayspodcast (http://www.youtube.com/@polypathwayspodcast) Instagram: @polypathwayspodcast (http://www.instagram.com/polypathwayspodcast) TikTok: @polypathwayspodcast (http://www.tiktok.com/polypathwayspodcast) Resources (affiliate links) • Magic AI  (https://getmagic.com/referral?_by=63rfd)– Virtual assistance service to help with daily life (Referral link in the show notes) • Annie Undone  (https://www.instagram.com/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. 💜 (00:00) - Welcome & Introduction (01:30) - Saturation (25:06) - Creating Communication Around Saturation (49:27) - Self Care and Support in Saturation

13. 

    14 Feb 2025

    Are You Ready to Navigate Apps, Adventure, & Holidays in Polyamory?

    Hosts: Kat and Doc Website: polypathwayspodcast.transistor.fm (https://polypathwayspodcast.transistor.fm/) YouTube: @polypathwayspodcast (http://www.youtube.com/@polypathwayspodcast) Instagram: @polypathwayspodcast (http://www.instagram.com/polypathwayspodcast) TikTok: @polypathwayspodcast (http://www.tiktok.com/polypathwayspodcast) 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. Resources we mention OKCupid (https://www.okcupid.com/) Bumble (https://bumble.com/) Tinder (https://tinder.com/) Feeld (https://feeld.co/) #Open (https://www.hashtagopen.com/) PolyFinda (https://polyfinda.com/) Tiny Decisions App (for spontaneous date planning) iOS (https://apps.apple.com/us/app/tiny-decisions/id1338769645) | Android (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.nixwang.tinydecisions&hl=en-US) Dakota Wright on TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@printfairy) 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? (00:00) - - All the Dating Apps (26:46) - Better Profile & Opening Conversation Ideas (46:16) - - Cool Poly First Dates (56:08) - - First Date Do's & Don'ts (01:08:13) - Special Days & Dates

14. 

    31 Jan 2025

    Can We Just Be Friends? Navigating Platonic Bonds in Polyamory | S01E03

    Hosts: Kat and Doc Website: polypathwayspodcast.transistor.fm (https://polypathwayspodcast.transistor.fm/) YouTube: @polypathwayspodcast (http://www.youtube.com/@polypathwayspodcast) Instagram: @polypathwayspodcast (http://www.instagram.com/polypathwayspodcast) TikTok: @polypathwayspodcast (http://www.tiktok.com/polypathwayspodcast) Kat 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 (https://amzn.to/3CtVZQQ) | Bookshop.org (https://bookshop.org/a/4499/9780306828287) "Together" by Vivek Murthy  | Amazon (https://amzn.to/3Chdow3) | Bookshop.org (https://bookshop.org/a/4499/9780062913302) Money with Katie podcast (https://podcast.moneywithkatie.com/) Remodeled Love (https://www.remodeledlove.com/)'s Nuclear Fusion (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/remodeledlove/the-nuclear-fusion-app?ref=project_link) (and their podcast (https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/remodeledlove)) Key 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?

15. 

    17 Jan 2025

    Decoding and Navigating Jealousy in Polyamory | S01E02

    Kat and Doc explore the complexities of jealousy in polyamory, debunking misconceptions and offering practical strategies for navigating this challenging emotion.

16. 

    3 Jan 2025

    Kat's Polyamory Origin Story

    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 media Note: This episode mentions "blue state" and discusses career considerations regarding privacy, but specific locations and professional details are intentionally withheld for privacy reasons. Episode FAQs Q: 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 isolating The 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 Resources Local polyamorous groups (check Meetup.com or Facebook for local communities) Social Media: @polypathwayspodcast Polyamory Support Communities: Reddit: r/polyamory Facebook polyamory groups (specific groups not mentioned) Books (affiliate links) Polysecure: Attachment, Trauma and Consensual Nonmonogamy by Jessica Fern - https://amzn.to/3ZojtOK The Complete Polysecure Bundle by Jessica Fern - https://amzn.to/4gr6PVN Polysecure and The Polysecure Workbook (Bundle) by Jessica Fern - https://amzn.to/3ZHkQsX The Ethical Slut by Janet Hardy and Dossie Easton - https://amzn.to/3VPDY5N Opening Up by Tristan Taormino - https://amzn.to/3BoeqWE

17. 

    3 Jan 2025

    Welcome to our Polysphere | S01E01

    Welcome to our Polysphere (S01E01) Hosts: Kat and Doc @polypathwayspodcast Episode Summary In 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 Jeff (https://www.instagram.com/therapyjeff) Millennial Therapist (https://www.instagram.com/millennial.therapist/) SteadyPolyamory (https://www.instagram.com/steadypolyamory/) Ready for Polyamory (https://www.instagram.com/readyforpolyamory/) Polyfamory (https://www.instagram.com/polyfamory/) Remodeled Love (https://www.instagram.com/remodeledlove) Polyphilia (https://www.instagram.com/stories/polyphiliablog/) Chill Polyamory (https://www.instagram.com/chillpolyamory/) Annie Undone (https://www.instagram.com/annie_undone/) Poly.Lovers (https://www.instagram.com/poly.lovers/) Polylokii (https://www.instagram.com/polylokiii/) InfinitePolyam (https://www.instagram.com/infinitepolyam/) Open Relating (https://www.instagram.com/openrelating/) Dana and the Wolf (https://www.instagram.com/danaandthewolf/) PolyAmFam (https://www.instagram.com/polyamfam/) Books: (affiliate links) - "The Ethical Slut (https://amzn.to/3DvJYKE)" by Janet Hardy and Dossie Easton - "Polysecure (https://amzn.to/3ZU0H1T)" by Jessica Fern - "Polywise (https://amzn.to/4gQdXLC)" by Jessica Fern - "Love (https://amzn.to/3PfXSmL)" by Leo Buscaglia - "Living, Loving, and Learning (https://amzn.to/3VYEjTZ)" by Leo Buscaglia - "Open Deeply (https://amzn.to/4gwCqGn)" by Kate Loree - "Monogamy in this Economy (https://amzn.to/40ejs1r)" by Laura Boyle - "More than Two (https://amzn.to/40bb02W)" by Eve Rickert - "Polyamory in Parenthood (https://amzn.to/3Pepysn)" by Jessica and Joseph Daylover - "The Topping Book (https://amzn.to/3ZVMrpi)" and "The Bottoming Book (https://amzn.to/4gR2trk)" by Janet Hardy and Dossie Easton Other Podcasts: - MultiAmory Podcast (https://www.multiamory.com/podcast/category/Podcast) - Remodeled Love (https://www.remodeledlove.com/) - Normalizing Non-Monogamy (https://www.normalizingnonmonogamy.com/) - We Can Do Hard Things (https://wecandohardthingspodcast.com/)(specific episodes on relationships) - 2BeBetter (https://www.2bebetter.com/) Frequently Asked Questions Q: Where should I start if I'm new to learning about polyamory? A: The hosts recommend starting with social media platforms you're already comfortable with (Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, etc.) as they provide digestible, bite-sized information. For deeper learning, they suggest reading "The Ethical Slut" as a foundational text, especially if reading with a partner. Q: Are all polyamory resources equally valuable? A: No. The hosts emphasize that some resources may be problematic or "toxic adjacent." They recommend being discerning, particularly with local Facebook groups and social media accounts that may promote unicorn hunting or use polyamory for publicity rather than education and support. Q: What resources are available for polyamorous parents? A: Several resources focus on polyamory and parenting: - Polyfamory account (discusses raising children in a quad relationship) - Remodeled Love (covers navigating polyamory with children) - "Polyamory in Parenthood" book by Jessica and Joseph Daylover - Poly Life Parenting Facebook group Q: How can I find my local polyamory community? A: While local Facebook groups exist in most cities, the hosts caution that smaller city groups often function more as dating spaces than support communities. They recommend joining larger national/global online communities for support and education, such as: - Poly Memes and Things (Facebook) - Remodeled Love Discord - Multiamory Discord Q: What are some good resources for understanding attachment and security in polyamorous relationships? A: The hosts highly recommend: - "Polysecure" by Jessica Fern (and its accompanying workbook) - "Polywise" by Jessica Fern - TherapyJeff (social media) - Millennial.Therapist (social media) - SteadyPolyamory (social media) Q: Are there resources available for specific relationship structures or situations? A: Yes, there are specialized resources for different situations: - Poly and Mono Relationships Facebook group (for mixed relationships) - Various therapist accounts addressing specific relationship challenges - Multiple podcasts covering different relationship structures - Books addressing various aspects of ethical non-monogamy Q: How can I verify if a polyamory resource is reliable? A: The hosts suggest: - Looking for content creators who share real experiences rather than just theory - Being wary of accounts that seem to be using polyamory for publicity - Checking if the resource acknowledges both challenges and benefits of polyamory - Looking for content that emphasizes consent, communication, and ethical behavior - Being cautious of any resource that presents only one "right way" to practice polyamory Q: Where can I find regular updates about polyamory news and research? A: The hosts recommend: - Setting up Google Alerts for polyamory and non-monogamy - Following polyamory content on Medium.com - Following polyamory writers on Substack - Subscribing to established polyamory podcasts for ongoing discussions

18. 

    3 Jan 2025

    Doc's Polyamory Origin Story

    In 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. Follow @polypathwayspodcast on social media Episode FAQs Q: What led Doc to discover polyamory? A: The end of his marriage during the pandemic, meeting a new partner who introduced the concept, and reconnecting with Cat through social media all contributed to his discovery of polyamory. Q: Was Doc unfaithful in previous relationships? A: Doc acknowledges going "beyond agreements" in past relationships due to struggling with monogamous constraints, something he now works to make amends for and understand through therapy. Q: How did Doc transition from monogamy to polyamory? A: Through therapy, self-reflection, and learning new relationship frameworks that helped him understand his capacity to love multiple people authentically. Q: What are "confusing connections"? A: A term coined by Kat referring to relationships or attractions that didn't fit within traditional monogamous frameworks, causing internal conflict and confusion. Q: Does Doc consider himself an expert in polyamory? A: No, he explicitly states he's "by no means perfect in polyamory" and continues to learn while dealing with challenges like jealousy and insecurity. Q: What's the main message of this origin story? A: That many people come to polyamory later in life after struggling with monogamous expectations, and finding polyamory can provide a framework for understanding one's natural capacity for multiple loving relationships.

19. 

    2 Jan 2025

    Introducing Poly Pathways: A New & Practical Guide to Polyamory

    Show Notes: S01E00a - A New & Practical Guide to Polyamory Hosts: Kat (she/her) and Doc (he/him) Episode Summary: In 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) Loving Each Other: The Challenge of Human Relationships by Leo Buscaglia- https://amzn.to/4gr8Xgz Living Loving and Learning by Leo Buscaglia - https://amzn.to/4isp1jE Love: What Life is All About by Leo Buscaglia - https://amzn.to/3OMigvu Polysecure: Attachment, Trauma and Consensual Nonmonogamy by Jessica Fern - https://amzn.to/3ZojtOK The Complete Polysecure Bundle by Jessica Fern - https://amzn.to/4gr6PVN Polysecure and The Polysecure Workbook (Bundle) by Jessica Fern - https://amzn.to/3ZHkQsX Polywise: A Deeper Dive into Navigating Open Relationships by Jessica Fern - https://amzn.to/3ZFBwRQ Polywise &  Polysecure 2 Books Collection Set By Jessica Fern - https://amzn.to/4ii8PS6 Connect With the Show: Instagram: @polypathwayspodcast TikTok: @polypathwayspodcast YouTube: @polypathwayspodcast Episode FAQs: Q: What makes Poly Pathways different from other polyamory podcasts? A: Unlike many poly-focused podcasts, hosts Kat and Doc offer a unique perspective as polyamorous individuals who maintain conventional lives while not being partnered to each other. They emphasize polyamory as just one facet of their identities rather than their entire personality, making their advice particularly relevant for those seeking to integrate ethical non-monogamy into otherwise traditional lifestyles. Q: Do I need to be actively polyamorous to benefit from this podcast? A: Not at all! The podcast is designed for: People curious about polyamory Those exploring opening their relationships Existing poly individuals seeking practical advice Anyone interested in improving relationship communication People questioning traditional relationship structures Q: What topics will the podcast cover? A: Future episodes will address: Dating dynamics Trust building Family dynamics Financial considerations Relationship repair strategies Personal poly journeys Communication techniques Practical day-to-day challenges Q: What are the hosts' backgrounds and identifications? A: The hosts bring diverse perspectives: Kat: Identifies as demisexual/bisexual/pansexual Has ADHD Recently claimed poly identity (last 4 years) Balances family, career, and relationships Doc: Identifies as demisexual Longtime student of relationship dynamics Well-versed in relationship literature Actively partnered Coming Up Next: The next episode will feature Kat and Doc's personal origin stories and their paths to polyamory.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

609

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Spotify

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 70 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

83

Social presence

90

YouTube

66

Engagement

32