In the season 4 finale of LaidOPEN Podcast, Charna welcomes Dr. Keesha Ewers, an expert in integrative medicine, functional sexology, and a survivor of autoimmunity induced by trauma. And shares her personal journey from starting as a conventional nurse to exploring alternative healing modalities like Ayurveda, hypnotherapy, and EMDR after being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis.

She illuminates the profound connection between unresolved trauma and physical health, including autoimmune disorders and sexual vitality. The discussion delves deep into the science of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), highlighting the impact of trauma on long-term health and well-being.

Dr. Keesha also discusses the concept of 'libido' as life force vitality and emphasizes the importance of healing and digesting trauma for reclaiming one's full vitality and sexual freedom. The episode encourages personal reflection and offers insights on how to embark on a healing journey with an exercise from Dr. Keesha that teaches how to embrace your inner 'eagle' and live a more embodied and liberated life.

Show Notes

00:00 Welcome to LaidOPEN Podcast with Dr. Keesha Ewers

01:06 Embarking on a Journey of Healing and Transformation

01:23 Dr. Keesha's Personal Battle with Autoimmune Disease

04:55 Discovering the Power of Ayurveda and Yoga

07:34 The Profound Connection Between Trauma and Health

13:57 Exploring the ACE Study and Its Implications

21:56 Navigating Trauma and Its Impact on Health

25:34 Personal Stories of Overcoming and Healing

27:21 The Importance of Self-Care and Boundary Setting

32:39 Embracing Vulnerability and Overcoming Shame

34:12 The Power of Plant Medicine in Healing

35:01 Navigating Life's Developmental Milestones and Achieving Unity Consciousness

35:43 Understanding the Human Condition: From Victim to Perpetrator

36:42 The Journey to Self-Compassion and Liberation

42:26 Exploring Sexual Liberation and Vitality

52:17 The Importance of Play and Embracing Different Perspectives

59:40 Concluding Thoughts on Community, Healing, and Empowerment

In this latest episode of LaidOPEN Podcast, Charna Cassell speaks with Mariah Freya, a sex coach and founder of Beducated, an online platform for sex education that offers a vast library of resources for pleasure-focused sex education.

Mariah delves into the innovative role of AI technology in revolutionizing sex education, making it more accessible and tailored to individual needs. Highlighting how Beducated’s AI sex coach aids users in navigating their expansive library and provides personalized sex education resources. She also shares the challenges and experiments involved in developing their AI-powered tool.

She also speaks on the challenges of balancing parenthood with entrepreneurship to the transformative power of embracing one's sexuality, this conversation explores the intersections of personal growth, intimacy, and empowerment.

We end this episode with Mariah sharing a mindful shower practice. Join us as we delve into the importance of self-discovery, boundary-setting, and cultivating a sex-positive mindset at any stage of life.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Presentation

01:48 Exploring Sexuality and Motherhood

06:25 The Impact of Parenthood on Business

12:55 The Journey of Sexual Empowerment

31:04 The Role of AI in Sex Education

40:09 The Vision for BBeducated

50:20 Closing Thoughts and Farewell

This week, Charna interviews Brett Chamberlin, the founder and executive director of OPEN, the Organization for Polyamory and Ethical Nonmonogamy. Brett opens by sharing his journey of transitioning from environmental activism to the advocacy for more awareness and legal rights for non-monogamists. This includes anyone who subscribes to relationship designs outside the norm of one man and one woman, including single people.

He also discusses the cultural implications of nonmonogamy, the impact of societal norms, the progressing nonmonogamy movement, and the importance of community, consent, and cooperative living in practicing non-monogamy.

When it comes to having a successful non-monogamous relationship, Brett emphasizes the relevance of developing effective communication skills, having a clear understanding of personal desires, and the establishment of healthier relationships. He calls for the questioning and challenging of the supremacy of monogamous relationships in society and how dismantling this norm will lead to a more inclusive, loving society.

Charna ends the episode by sharing resources for people looking to explore the world of non-monogamy, as well as, an exercise designed to help you focus in on the characteristics and nuances you’re looking for in a partner when choosing a potential mate. 

Show Notes

00:04 Introduction of Brett Chamberlin and OPEN

01:09 Brett Chamberlin's Journey to Polyamory Advocacy

03:31 The Birth of OPEN: Organization for Polyamory and Ethical Nonmonogamy

04:09 The Challenges and Privileges of Advocacy

05:38 OPEN's Theory of Change and Advocacy Strategies

11:07 The Reality of Nonmonogamy in America

13:23 The Importance of Visibility and Acceptance

17:22 The Legal Challenges Faced by Nonmonogamous People

28:31 The Role of Polyamory in Broader Human Liberation

35:42 The Liberatory Potential of Non-Monogamy

35:51 The Social and Environmental Impact of Extractive Systems

36:31 The Rise of Social Issues and the Role of Non-Monogamy

38:08 The History and Evolution of Monogamy

38:58 The Impact of Industrial Revolution on Relationship Structures

40:55 The Importance of Relationship Education

50:07 The Role of Media in Normalizing Non-Monogamy

54:43 The Impact of Pandemic on Non-Monogamous Relationships

59:41 The Importance of Self-Acceptance and Authenticity in Relationships

01:00:58 Understanding and Navigating the Complexities of Relationships

01:03:57 Conclusion: The Power of Open Conversations and Community