Polyamory. Ethical non-monogamy (ENM). Open relationships. The language is everywhere, but what do these terms actually mean, and how do you know which one fits?

In this episode, Kelvin Pace, AASECT-certified sex therapist and owner of Selva Sexual Wellness, breaks down the difference between polyamory, ENM, swinging, and open relationships. More than definitions, Kelvin reframes the conversation around relationship orientation vs. relationship practice, and why autonomy, not compromise, is the foundation of healthy connections.

What You'll Learn:

• What is polyamory? How it differs from ethical non-monogamy (ENM), open relationships, and swinging

• Bisexuality and non-monogamy myths — Why being bi doesn't mean you're wired for polyamory

• Sexual communication skills — The missing piece in most relationships (monogamous or not)

• How to navigate jealousy — Why jealousy is an emotion, not a moral failing

• Relationship autonomy — How to build connections without sacrificing who you are

• Kink, shame, and BIPOC communities — How religion and generational trauma shape our relationship scripts

• Questions to ask before exploring polyamory — Including relationship agreements, boundaries vs. rules, and time management

Resources Mentioned:

• Polysecure by Jessica Fern
• Mating in Captivity by Esther Perel

Connect with Kelvin Pace:

• K Pace Counseling: kpacecounseling.net
• Instagram: @kpace37
• Selva Sexual Wellness (Colorado Springs)

This episode is for anyone questioning monogamy, exploring consensual non-monogamy, or navigating identity and desire outside the default script , especially bi+ folks and BIPOC communities.

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Keywords: polyamory, ethical non-monogamy, ENM, open relationships, consensual non-monogamy, what is polyamory, polyamory vs open relationship, sex therapy, AASECT, Kelvin Pace, kink, sexual communication, relationship autonomy, bi+ identity, bisexual and polyamory, BIPOC relationships, queer relationships, Jessica Fern Polysecure, Esther Perel

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