Keep Them Coming with Kristen Thomas

Reproductive rights are workers' rights with Pamela Merritt

In this episode, host Kristen Thomas interviews Pamela Merritt, the Executive Director of Medical Students for Choice, discussing the critical role of reproductive health education and access in the current political landscape. Pamela explains the organization's efforts to provide comprehensive reproductive healthcare education and training for medical students, the impact of recent legal and political shifts on abortion access, and the broader implications for healthcare and social justice. Pamela shares insights into the challenges faced by reproductive health providers and delves into the interconnectedness of reproductive rights and workers' rights. They wrap up the conversation by highlighting ways individuals can take action and support efforts to safeguard reproductive healthcare access and the need for awareness regarding digital privacy.
 
 
00:00 Introduction to Keep Them Coming
01:33 Meet Today's Guest: Pamela Merritt
03:28 Medical Students for Choice: Mission and Impact
06:20 The Political Landscape of Reproductive Healthcare
13:12 Challenges and Realities in Missouri
27:54 Reproductive Rights as Workers' Rights
29:55 Debunking Nostalgia: The Myth of Women's Roles in History
31:21 The Fight for Women's Rights and Economic Participation
32:49 The State's Role in Reproductive Rights and White Nationalism
36:19 The Reality of Abortion Access and Healthcare Policies
38:34 Plan C and Digital Privacy for Reproductive Health
42:03 Legal Risks and Protective Measures for Reproductive Rights
54:47 Supporting Medical Students for Choice and Future Access
56:38 Conclusion and Call to Action
 
 
Medical Students For Choice website: https://msfc.org/donate
IG: https://www.instagram.com/msfchoice 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MSFC 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MSFChoice/ 
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/msfchoice.bsky.social
 
Mentioned in the episode:
Search the internet AFTER you've secured your search history: https://activistchecklist.org/ 
Euki period planner app: https://eukiapp.org/ 
Plan C Pills: https://www.plancpills.org/ 
Palema's Substack post after the Dobbs decision: https://pamelamerrittsharkfu.substack.com/p/postmortem?r=1ih6l8&triedRedirect=true
 
 
Thanks for listening! XOXO Kristen
______________________________
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Pucker Up To Save Your Relationship

How can kissing save your relationship? Addressing both cultural and biological aspects, Coach Kristen explains how kissing releases bonding hormones affects the body, enhances mood, and reduces stress. She also discusses how kissing can be a tool for assessing long-term compatibility. 
 
 
00:00 Introduction: The Power of Kissing
00:56 The Science Behind Kissing
01:49 Kissing in Modern Dating
02:38 Kissing in Long-Term Relationships
03:57 Tips to Become a Better Kisser
05:27 Personal Stories
 
Thanks for listening! XOXO Kristen
 
February Pitch column: Pucker Up, Buttercup
 
Support my work by becoming a Patron on Patreon: patreon.com/coach_kristen   
 
Check out all the affiliates and discounts I have with quality sexual health companies like Intimate Rose and Bathmate: https://www.openthedoorscoaching.com/affiliates
 
You can use my code “BVCA5OTDC” at checkout to get 20% off your entire purchase at b-Vibe! Use it on: www.bvibe.com/, www.bvibe.com/ or www.lewandmassager.com/
 
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Read my column in The Pitch Magazine: https://www.thepitchkc.com/tag/keep-them-coming/
 
 
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Deconstructing Christian Nationalism with April Ajoy

Waking up one day and wondering if you're upholding Christian Nationalism is not an easy position to find oneself. 
April Ajoy shares her transformative journey from a fundamentalist Christian upbringing to questioning how her faith could include embracing a more inclusive worldview. They discuss the intersections of faith, politics, and sexuality, particularly in the context of Christian nationalism and purity culture.
April reflects on her journey from away right wing extremism via the impact of a a deep personal loss, a few loved one's coming out stories, and the challenges of navigating relationships and sexuality as an adult. Their conversation highlights the importance of self-discovery, the dangers of religion seeking power, and the need for open discussions about sexuality and consent, especially for practicing Christians.
TW: brief discussion of sexual assault - see the chapters for the timing. 
April Ajoy's information:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aprilajoy/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aprilajoy
Get a copy of Star-Spangled Jesus https://tr.ee/KOqRtqhQEc 
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to April Ajoy and Her Journey06:50 Leaving Christian Nationalism Behind09:50 The Impact of Personal Loss on Faith10:42 Political Awakening and the Trump Era15:39 Understanding Christian Nationalism19:43 The Intersection of Faith and LGBTQ+ Issues24:41 Coming out close to home27:13 The Role of Consent in Purity Culture32:14 TW: Mention of SA34:42 Reclaiming Autonomy and Sexuality42:35 Unlearning that "sex is bad" isn't like flipping a light switch46:06 The Intersection of Purity Culture and Christian Nationalism52:58 The Dangers of Christian Nationalism today55:00 Ask Coach Kristen Anything - Do you think DT and Melania still have sex? 
 
Thanks for listening! XOXO Kristen
 
Support my work by becoming a Patron on Patreon: patreon.com/coach_kristen   
 
Check out all the affiliates and discounts I have with quality sexual health companies: https://www.openthedoorscoaching.com/affiliates
 
Learn more about my coaching services : openthedoorscoaching.com
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Are we breaking up? Why disconnected relationships are hard to leave

Having trouble navigating the gray abyss of a mediocre relationship? Worried you've fallen into a tolerable level of permanent unhappiness?
In this episode of 'Keep Them Coming', Kristen shares and analyzes Reddit posts about long-term relationships stuck in mediocrity, offering strategies and advice on how to navigate tough decisions. Kristen introduces the 'three doors' option for dealing with relationship dissatisfaction.
Through reflective examples and practical tips, she emphasizes the importance of direct communication, setting boundaries, and prioritizing personal growth post-breakup. The episode wraps up with actionable advice on moving forward and finding happiness after a split.
00:00 Introduction to Keep Them Coming
01:21 Navigating Mediocre Relationships
03:56 The Three Doors Decision-Making Tool
06:26 Reddit Relationship Dilemmas
11:43 Breaking Up with Respect and Clarity
14:51 Moving On and Personal Growth
17:54 Conclusion and Support
 
Thanks for listening! XOXO Kristen
 
Become a Patron on Patreon! This helps me produce high quality educational content like this podcast.   patreon.com/coach_kristen 
Check out all the affiliates and discounts I have with quality sexual health companies like Intimate Rose and Bathmate: https://www.openthedoorscoaching.com/affiliates
 
Learn more about my coaching services : openthedoorscoaching.com
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The Juicy Dynamics of Babygirl with Abby Olcese

In this episode of Keep Them Coming, host Kristen Thomas discusses the film Babygirl with The Pitch Magazine's Film Editor Abby Olcese.
*SPOILERS AHEAD!*
Kristen and Abby discussed the themes of sexuality, relationships, and the complexities of female desire, particularly in the context of a woman's awakening to her needs and wants. It explores the portrayal of dom-sub relationships and the generational differences in expectations and standards for men and women in power. 
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Keep Them Coming01:22 Exploring the Film Babygirl09:22 Character Dynamics and Themes12:03 Sexual Awakening and Relationships20:49 Generational Perspectives on Sexuality27:22 Communication and Desire in Relationships31:12 Cinematic Representation of Female Desire35:42 Soft Launch of Relationships36:30 Discretion and Awareness in Relationships37:25 Portrayal of Dom-Sub Dynamics38:52 Exploring Boundaries and Safety39:50 Character Development and Submissive Energy41:41 Wealth and Class Dynamics44:32 Chemistry and Age Gap Dynamics45:57 Power Dynamics47:50 Agency and Sexual Compatibility49:39 Communication in Relationships52:46 Changing Desires and Growth55:02 Standards for Women vs. Men56:59 Generational Differences in Power Dynamics01:00:18 Cultural Commentary on Sexuality01:02:08 Final Reflections on Relationships01:04:21 Ask Coach Kristen Anything
 
Find Abby on Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/abbyolcese.bsky.social  or Letterbox IndieAbby
 
Kristen's Links
Website: openthedoorscoaching.com 
TikTok  https://www.tiktok.com/@coachkristen
YouTube https://youtube.com/@openthedoorscoaching
Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/coachkristen.bsky.social
Discord: https://discord.gg/uskVndTM
 
Support my Patreon to help me produce high quality, educational content across platforms: patreon.com/coach_kristen

Divorce Season is upon us

Summary
In this episode, Kristen Thomas explores the phenomenon of 'divorce season' in January, discussing the reasons behind the spike in divorce filings during this month. She delves into the emotional and societal factors contributing to this trend, including the impact of the political climate on relationships. Kristen also addresses common myths surrounding divorce, such as the misconception that it comes as a surprise to those involved. Finally, she offers practical advice for those considering divorce, emphasizing the importance of emotional support and legal guidance.
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Keep Them Coming01:22 Understanding Divorce Season04:04 The Impact of Politics on Relationships07:27 Debunking Myths About Divorce10:10 Navigating the Divorce Process13:29 Closing
 
Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@openthedoorscoaching
Website: openthedoorscoaching.com 
TikTok  https://www.tiktok.com/@coachkristen
Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/coachkristen.bsky.social
Discord: https://discord.gg/uskVndTM
Flowpage: https://flow.page/coachkristen
 

Fitting Confidence: Lingerie for every body with Emily from Circadian Intimates

Would you believe that most people are not wearing the right bra for them? Coach Kristen interviews Emily Elizabeth, the owner of Circadian Intimates, a lingerie shop in KC. They discuss Emily's journey into the lingerie industry, the importance of proper bra fitting, and the impact of well-fitted lingerie on confidence. Emily shares insights on the evolving lingerie industry, including size and fit inclusivity, and offers practical shopping tips for partners.
 
RSVP for their Holiday Fashion Show: https://circadianintimates.com/blogs/about-circadian-intimates/youre-invited-circadian-intimates-holiday-lingerie-fashion-show
 
Topics include:
Emily’s Journey into the lingerie industry
The importance of proper bra fitting
Inclusivity in the industry
Exploring kinks and fetishes through lingerie
And advice for partners shopping for the holidays or special occasions
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to my guest, info on upcoming events06:07 Emily's Journey into the Lingerie Industry11:50 Proper Bra Fitting18:30 Bra Donation Program 21:40 Evolving Lingerie Industry Size Inclusivity26:29 Comfort in Lingerie Shopping32:11 Holiday Lingerie Shopping35:54 Exploring Confidence and Self-Expression 38:19 Approaching Strangers49:54 Diverse Options for Every Budget and Style in Lingerie
 
Book a session https://rebrand.ly/TalkToKristen
Want to be a guest? https://forms.gle/g8CB2z61Vep9h3XQ8

Role(Play) With It with Julia Satterlee

Do you wish you had more confidence when it comes to role play? Worry that you’re not creative enough to have an exciting and easy experience? Coaches Julia and Kristen are going to set your mind at ease. 
 
Topics include:
Role play preparedness
Key elements of negotiation
Use media or tools like Faithful Fling to help you
Read "Familiar Stranger", this month's Keep Them Coming column via The Pitch. 
 
Julia Satterlee is a Clinical Sexologist dedicated to kicking shame out of the bedroom and sparking joyful intimacy. Since 2019, she has been coaching couples, men, and women, championing pleasure and connection as essential, not optional. Julia’s work revolves around exploring and expressing needs, desires, and boundaries in a judgment-free environment. Her approach combines self-love strategies, effective communication techniques, and myth-busting insights into sex and intimacy—all with a dose of fun.
 
Find her here:
https://pleasure-wise.com/
tinyurl.com/pleasurepractice
@pleasure.wise Instagram
@sexistentialcoach Facebook
 
Email me at kristen@openthedoorscoaching.com for questions, topic suggestions for future episodes, or to book your first session. 

Sex Talks with Amanda Vee

Amanda Vee is the creator of Sex Talks With Amanda and Embodied Sexual Power. She brings over a decade of experience and expertise as an accredited fitness professional and Behavioral Change Specialist. She’s a Certified Sex Coach and Clinical Sexologist, Certified Life Coach, and faculty at Sex Coach U. After leaving a twenty-year relationship and moving across the country during the pandemic, Amanda pivoted her career to fully embrace her passion for helping people create the sex lives that they really want. 
She identifies as polyamorous and heteroflexible and she discussed what apps she’s had success with while dating as a nonmonogamous person. Amanda lived a fantastic slut era but also spent time with celibacy to understand more about herself. 
 
Topics discussed:
Sexual health month and positive relationships 
Sexual and romantic spectrums in honor of National Bisexuality Day.
Exploration and labels
The relationship escalator
Dating as a couple and unicorn hunting
When and where to be open - small towns vs cities, safety and stigma considerations
The Ask Coach Kristen Anything got pretty spicy 🌶️🥵 
 
Submit your questions to: https://forms.gle/xNBLKCcUy75h97nZ8
 

Getting Beducated with Mariah Freya

Have you ever wanted to get more sex education but have no interest in talking to a coach directly? 
Did you have a belief that your sex life should be amazing always, only to find that it's a really difficult expectation to live up to?
This episode is dedicated to everyone who would like more sex education but could not imagine themselves reaching out to work with a coach personally. I get it... It's awkward! Maybe it's just not for you, maybe there's an accessibility issue.  
That is why you'll enjoy this conversation with my guest Mariah Freya. She is the founder of Beducated. She's making a global impact by making sex education accessible. 
In this episode:
What should your kids know from you about sexual health? You are their first teacher!
What is the sexual lifeline?
Our thoughts on people who try to discourage sexual health education.
 
Listen until the end for a discount code on a Beducated subscription!
Also - Happy Sexual Health Month! XOXO Kristen