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

Coming out as polyamorous can be one of the most personal, high-stakes decisions in ethical non-monogamy. In this episode, Kat and Doc dive deep into the complex emotional, social, and logistical layers of deciding who gets to know, when to share, and how to protect yourself and your partners along the way. From the mental load of navigating a mononormative world to the strategies for incremental disclosure, the hosts get honest, vulnerable, and practical about this ongoing process.

Whether you’re coming out to friends, family, coworkers, or your community, this episode explores the difference between privacy and secrecy, how to respond to difficult reactions, and why safety always comes first. Doc shares lessons from a lifetime of professional discretion and parenting older kids, while Kat opens up about her community-facing career and tough family experiences—including a heartbreaking birthday moment. The duo also unpack how internalized shame and fear can make coming out feel heavier than it needs to be.

You’ll leave this episode with strategies to manage disclosure, tips to build a “coming out” game plan, and a reminder that you don’t owe anyone your truth—unless and until it feels right for you. Also: sliding it into bakery small talk, defining “mister-ess,” and what not to do with a microphone at a wedding.

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

• (00:00) - - Welcome
• (01:38) - - Why is this so hard?
• (23:19) - - Who deseerves your truth?
• (59:40) - - A game plan for coming our poly

FOMO—Fear of Missing Out—can hit hard in polyamorous relationships. In this episode, Kat and Doc unpack how FOMO shows up, what triggers it, and why even experiences you don’t actually want can still cause an emotional storm. Whether it’s a partner going to a concert, a kinky party, or just trying a new restaurant without you, FOMO is often less about the activity and more about comparison, insecurity, and scarcity thinking. This real-talk episode dives into the emotional undercurrents behind envy and offers grounded, compassionate tools for moving through it.

We share personal stories—like visiting sex clubs and awkward Valentine’s Day movie nights—that bring the topic to life with humor, vulnerability, and depth. They explore how forward-thinking and hindsight-based FOMO can show up, why “first time” doesn’t always mean “only special,” and how our reactions are often shaped by deeper fears like abandonment or not being enough. With mindfulness, proactive communication, and a dose of self-reflection, listeners are encouraged to build emotional resilience, regulate their reactions, and turn envy into connection.

If you’ve ever felt sidelined, compared yourself to a metamour, or wondered “why not me?”, this episode is for you. Don’t just ride the wave of discomfort—learn to surf it. Subscribe now and share this with someone who needs a reminder that they’re not alone. Then follow us @polypathwayspodcast for bonus content, memes, and community support.

About Poly Pathways Podcast

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

• (00:00) - - Welcome & Introduction to FOMO
• (14:06) - - FOMO Strategies for a Better Relationship
• (35:21) - - Key Takeaways

Kat and Doc shoot for the stars and discuss the world of "comet" relationships—those passionate, intermittent connections that flare up brightly before drifting apart, sometimes for long periods. Inspired by celestial phenomena, these relationships often span distances or time gaps, offering intensity without demanding constant presence. Kat and Doc break down the nuances between comets, meteors, and even local comets, highlighting the beauty and complexity of non-monogamous relationships that defy traditional expectations.

Listeners are guided through essential strategies for maintaining clear communication and creating thoughtful agreements that nurture these unique bonds. From proactive discussions on boundaries and safety to managing emotional expectations and avoiding common pitfalls like relationship saturation, the episode is packed with practical advice. Kat candidly shares personal experiences, including insightful reflections on managing emotional transparency and protecting established relationships.

Finally, the discussion turns introspective, prompting listeners to consider their personal motivations and boundaries. How do comet relationships enrich or complicate one's polyamorous journey? With an engaging blend of personal anecdotes and actionable advice, Kat and Doc provide a thoughtful guide for navigating these bright yet fleeting connections.

About Poly Pathways Podcast

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

Resources & References (affilitate links):

• Magic AI (Virtual Assistant Service)
• Drink LMNT (Electrolyte Replacement Drink)

• (00:00) - Defining Different Types of Comets
• (05:36) - Comet Communication & Agreements
• (23:54) - Manging Expecations with Comets & Partners
• (35:14) - Wrapping Up & Summary

Ever wondered how internet therapy memes might be messing with your relationships? Or how celebrity drama shapes what the world thinks about your love life? Dive headfirst into a rollercoaster episode of Poly Pathways as hosts Kat and Doc unravel the wild ways polyamory is portrayed across memes, celebrities, and reality TV. Buckle up, because this episode cracks open the hidden impacts—and hilarious absurdities—of consuming relationship advice through bite-sized online content.

From debunking "five-cent therapy advice" on Instagram and TikTok to breaking down the latest poly celebrity announcements (Ne-Yo's relationships, anyone?), Kat and Doc guide listeners through the highs and lows of media-driven portrayals of non-monogamy. The hosts share their own personal twists and critical insights, helping listeners understand how oversimplified memes and sensationalized TV can either validate or harm real-life relationships.

In the fiery finale, the podcast tackles reality TV shows—like TLC’s recent controversial portrayal of the Polyfamory family—asking tough questions about ethics, representation, and the impact of sensationalism. If you're polyamorous, curious, or simply love diving into relationship dynamics, this episode offers deep reflections, sharp humor, and actionable tips to become a smarter consumer of media.

Resources & References (affilitate links):

• National Alliance on Mental Illness: NAMI.org
• Mental Health Support: 988lifeline.org
• Book Mentioned:
  • Uncertain: The Wisdom and Wonder of Being Unsure by Maggie Jackson [Amazon | Bookshop]
  • The One to Watch by Kate Stayman-London [ Amazon | Bookshop]
• Podcast Referenced: Mentally Stronger hosted by Amy Marin
• Article Referenced: Are Therapy Memes and Buzzwords Setting You Back? Fifty-two percent of mental health advice online is harmful. Don't fall for it.
• Poly-Friendly Therapists Directory: Psychology Today (Use the LGTBQ+ and Open Relationships filters)
• Celebrity Reference: CNN article on Ne Yo's polyamorous announcement
• Reality Shows Discussed:
  • Sister Wives (TLC)
  • Seeking Brother Husbands (TLC)
  • How to Build a Sex Room (Netflix)
  • The Bachelor/Bachelorette (ABC)
  • Polyfamily (TLC)
• Social Media Mentioned:
  • Progressive Love Academy (Kenya, featured on Brother Husbands)
  • Polyfamory

Engage further with Kat and Doc on social media @PolyPathwaysPodcast and share your favorite (or cringe-worthy!) poly memes.

• (00:00) - Poly Memes Help & Hurt
• (40:02) - Polyamory in the Media Spin Cycle
• (49:22) - (Un)Reailty Shows & Polyamory

In this enlightening episode of Poly Pathways, Kat and Doc dive deep into the practice of relationship check-ins, revealing how intentional communication can enhance connection and stability within polyamorous dynamics. They break down the structured yet flexible RADAR method, explaining how regular check-ins—far from being overly corporate or rigid—can function as vital "preventative maintenance" for your relationships. Whether you're navigating complicated emotions, managing a busy polycule, or just aiming to stay emotionally secure, this episode offers practical strategies rooted in mental wellness, attachment theory, and trauma-informed practices.

Kat and Doc share their personal successes and struggles with relationship check-ins, emphasizing the importance of mutual responsibility, preparation, and emotional presence. You will discover actionable advice on establishing emotional safety, effective communication techniques, and how to respectfully address sensitive topics without overwhelming partners. The episode also explores creative alternatives to traditional check-ins, suggesting activities that blend meaningful discussion with bonding experiences.

By integrating these structured conversations into your routine, you'll learn to navigate the complexities of polyamory with greater empathy and confidence. Tune in to strengthen your relationships through deliberate, supportive, and balanced communication practices.

About Poly Pathways Podcast

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

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

• RADAR Relationship Check-In Method by Multiamory
• Polysecure by Jessica Fern [Amazon] [Bookshop.org]
• Annie_Undone
• Laura Boyle - Ready for Polyamory
• Drink LMNT Electrolyte Replacement

Join the conversation and share your own check-in strategies or experiences by connecting with us on social media @polypathwayspodcast

• (00:00) - - Welcome and Introduction
• (01:56) - - Relationship Check In Basics
• (36:35) - - Suggestions & Improvements for Check Ins
• (01:11:11) - - Both Partners Play a Part