Trigger warnings: Trauma and self harm

What happens when past trauma transforms into empowered pleasure? In this deeply moving conversation with Talis, founder of Beyond Taboo, we explore the complex journey from self-harm to healing through consensual BDSM practices.

Talis brings a unique perspective as both a dominant who wears a collar and a clinical sexology student with a psychology background. They share their evolution in kink, from problematic beginnings at 18 to becoming an educator passionate about consent and community safety. "We put ourselves in very vulnerable positions, doing things that normal people can get into legal trouble for," Talis explains, highlighting why accountability matters so deeply in kink spaces.

The conversation takes a powerful turn when we discuss blood play as trauma recovery. Talis eloquently describes how practices once associated with self-harm can be reclaimed through consensual play: "Blood doesn't have to mean harm anymore. It can mean connection, control, devotion, beauty, and erotic power." We explore the neurochemistry behind these experiences and how they provide healing for neurodivergent individuals specifically.

For those new to kink, Talis offers practical advice about attending munches, researching consent models, and finding supportive community members. We also discuss creating more inclusive play spaces with sensory considerations and crisis support protocols, recognizing that accessibility means different things to different bodies and minds.

Talis’s bio:

They are a “neuro-spicy” disabled veteran with a B.S. in Psychology and over a decade in the kink community, with an emphasis on healing trauma through responsible practice of BDSM, Talis brings a unique perspective, commitment to continuous learning, and passion to their work. Currently offering consulting and mentorship services, Talis is a Sex Coach/Clinical Sexologist in Training under Dr. Patti Britton’s method. They are a research volunteer for TASHRA under Dr. Richard Sprott, a pioneer of the scientific world in destigmatizing kink and educating about its benefits.

Key Topics:

• How Talis identifies within the BDSM community
• Pressures of being a kink educator
• Why neurospicy folks are drawn to this lifestyle
• Play frenzy and tips for managing it
• What makes a great play party
• How to make dungeons more inclusive and accessible
• Funniest story from an event
• Sharing of blood play fantasies and hopes for future scenes
• Advice we wish we had when we started engaging with sharps
• Transforming trauma into positive experiences

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