19 | Emily, Dedeker and Jase on Multiamory and Reframing Non Monogamy

In the latest episode of Bad Bitch Therapist Podcast, we're diving into the realm of relationships that defy mononormativity and the Relationship Escalator. Not sure WTF any of that means? No worries— just buckle up and put on those headphones!Val here, and I’m not gonna lie— I was nervous AF jumping into this interview, because these 3 guests have hosted their own podcast, Multiamory, for almost a decade… and by this point have something like eleventy-zillion downloads. No pressure! 🫣😜But if you’ve listened to any of their 400+ episodes or read their fabulous new book of the same name, you won’t be surprised to hear that Dedeker, Emily, and Jase were incredibly down-to-earth and gracious guests. And especially if you’re just hearing about them here for the first time, let me assure you—you are in for a TREAT with this episode.So, what exactly is Multiamory? As the co-hosts define it, “(from the Latin prefix multi, meaning multiple, and the Latin root amor, meaning love) Multiamory represents multiple forms of love—everything from monogamy to nonmonogamy, casual dating to queerplatonic, married couples to those who are single by choice, and everything in between.”Part of why I think what Emily, Jase & Dedeker are doing is so incredible is that it’s one of the only spaces I’m aware of that is truly inclusive of ALL relationship types and structures. Of course there is a metric fuck ton  of heteronormative/mononormative dating and relationship content out there. And on the other side of the spectrum, folks creating spaces that highlight queer relationships and nontraditional relationship structures— which, given the oppression these folks face in the overculture, is incredibly valuable and needed.But ONE place that discusses ALL types of relationships? UNHEARD OF, I SAY! Until I learned recently (waaay behind the curve, haha) about Multiamory. Get ready to examine and reconsider the myths and misconceptions about non-traditional relationships, AND learn how even monogamous couples can benefit a ton from implementing some of the strategies that are more commonplace in the ethical non-monogamy/poly community.If you’ve been curious to learn more about that community and/or you just want some excellent food for thought that’s applicable to ANY relationship (not just romantic ones), this episode is for you.And if you love the episode, know that this is just a tiny appetizer of what these 3 have to offer!  Please consider buying their wonderful book and checking out their most popular episodes.  💖<br /><br /> About the AuthorsEmily, Dedeker and Jase created the Multiamory  podcast in 2014 to raise awareness. Transcripts provide approachable resources and combat the stigma faced by people in non traditional relationships. Today, with hundreds of episodes, millions of downloads around the world, and a rapidly growing community, they are dedicated to offering practical advice and communication tools grounded in the latest relationship research, guest experts, amory establishment, and essential tools for modern relationships. Multiamory has been featured in top tier media, done a national podcast tour and presented at numerous conferences. This episode covers:[7:30] How they started their podcast[10:15] How non-traditional relationship structures are just blowing up[14:20] Skills from ethical non-monogamy that can be applicable to any relationship structure[17:45] Repair Shop format for better communication[22:25] Relationship Anarchy and making sure our needs get met[24:00] Weaponizing our boundaries and staying true to them[28:20] Understanding where your emotions are co