This episode of Poly Pathways tackles the complex challenge of letting partners truly show up for you, especially when past relationship trauma has built walls of hyper-independence. Hosts Kat and Doc dive deep into how polyamory culture can sometimes reinforce the harmful idea that needing help equals weakness or codependency. They explore personal stories—from major surgery recovery to cancer treatment—revealing how scary yet transformative it can be to accept genuine care from loved ones. The conversation unpacks why many people excel at giving support but struggle desperately to receive it, often shutting out partners who genuinely want to help.

Kat and Doc emphasize that receiving care is actually a skill requiring practice, starting with small gestures like letting someone cook dinner or tuck you into bed. They discuss how weaponizing independence during conflicts damages relationships and stress the importance of building emotional safety within your polycule before crises hit. Rather than waiting until you're falling apart to ask for help, they advocate for normalizing the giving and receiving of care through everyday moments. The episode concludes with practical strategies for communicating needs clearly, resisting the urge to apologize for needing support, and understanding that choosing to be vulnerable with partners is ultimately a gift that strengthens intimacy and trust.

About Us:

• Hosts: Kat and Doc
• Website: polypathwayspodcast.transistor.fm
• YouTube: @polypathwayspodcast
• Instagram: @polypathwayspodcast
• TikTok: @polypathwayspodcast

Resources (affiliate links):

• The Power of Vulnerability | Brené Brown | TED
• Drink LMNT (Electrolyte Replacement Drink)

• (00:00) - - Welcome & Intro
• (02:07) - - Independence, Hyperindependence, and Interdependence
• (21:29) - - Offering & Accepting Love, Support, and Partners
• (40:59) - - Being Present in a Supportive Relationship

Ever wondered what it's like being the center point of multiple romantic relationships? In this eye-opening episode of Poly Pathways, hosts Kat and Doc dive deep into the world of "hinging" – that crucial role where you're romantically involved with two or more partners who aren't involved with each other. It sounds simple, but wow, is it complex! From managing everyone's emotions and schedules to navigating family events and holidays, being a hinge comes with unique joys and challenges that most people never talk about openly.

Kat and Doc get candid and honest about the hidden labor of hinging – the constant communication, the emotional weight of being everyone's anchor point, and yes, even the gender differences they've noticed in how society views male versus female hinges. But it's not all stress and drama! They also celebrate the incredible validation of multiple loving relationships, the personal growth that comes from managing complex dynamics, and those magical moments when everything clicks perfectly. Whether you're currently a hinge, dating someone who is, or just curious about polyamorous relationship structures, this episode offers practical strategies for handling burnout, setting boundaries, and creating joy in your polycule.

About Us:

• Hosts: Kat and Doc
• Website: polypathwayspodcast.transistor.fm
• YouTube: @polypathwayspodcast
• Instagram: @polypathwayspodcast
• TikTok: @polypathwayspodcast

Resources (affiliate links):

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI.org)
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (988lifeline.org or dial 988)
• Motion AI Calendar app

In this heartfelt and deeply insightful episode of Poly Pathways, Kat and Doc tackle one of the most common and emotionally charged questions in polyamorous parenting: What about the children? Whether you’re navigating polyamory with toddlers, teens, or somewhere in between, this episode unpacks the complexities of raising children in a non-traditional family structure. Through personal stories, reflections, and hard-won lessons, our hosts explore how to communicate age-appropriately with children about polyamory, manage social judgment, and build stable, loving family dynamics across diverse polycules.

You’ll hear candid discussions about introducing partners to kids, the emotional realities of breakups, and how to empower children with the tools and agency to navigate the world confidently. From role-playing conversations to sharing calendars and crafting family values, Kat and Doc provide practical advice grounded in compassion and realism. Whether you’re just starting your poly journey or have been walking the path for years, this episode is a must-listen for anyone raising children in a world that doesn’t always understand. Also, stick around for stories about Minecraft bonding, therapist mishaps, and the magic of mini tea parties.

About Us:

• Hosts: Kat and Doc
• Website: polypathwayspodcast.transistor.fm
• YouTube: @polypathwayspodcast
• Instagram: @polypathwayspodcast
• TikTok: @polypathwayspodcast

Resources (affiliate links):

• Magic AI: Virtual assistant support for busy polycules
• Drink LMNT Electrolyte Packets