Curious Fox

Effy Blue and Jacqueline Misla

For those challenging the status quo in love, sex, and relationships. Effy Blue and Jacqueline Misla explore themes on these subjects through personal stories, interviews, and community discussions (and laugh a lot). read less
Society & CultureSociety & Culture
EducationEducation
Health & FitnessHealth & Fitness
RelationshipsRelationships
Self-ImprovementSelf-Improvement
SexualitySexuality

Episodes

Queer Eye for Pleasure, Women and those who Love Them with Allison Moon
Nov 15 2023
Queer Eye for Pleasure, Women and those who Love Them with Allison Moon
In a world where discussions about sexuality often default to a heteronormative framework, what insights can we gain when we shift our focus to a queer perspective? How does queer sex challenge and expand our understanding of pleasure, consent, and sexual expression? What can individuals of all genders and orientations learn from queer sexuality?In this week’s episode, Effy welcomes back sex educator and author Allison Moon for a thought-provoking conversation where they explore the inherently pleasure-centric nature of queer sex and how this focus offers a broadened redefinition of sex and sexual expression. Effy and Allison dissect the limitations of traditional, heteronormative sex education and ponder the integration of queer sexual practices into the lives of straight individuals, contemplating how heteronormative couples might benefit from the queer emphasis on pleasure, consent, and open communication.To learn more about AllisonAllison Moon is the author of five books including the instant classic sex-ed guide Girl Sex 101 and Getting It: A Guide to Hot, Healthy Hookups and Shame-Free Sex. She has been quoted in Cosmopolitan, New York magazine, and The Washington Post. A popular sex educator, Allison has presented her workshops — on strap-on sex, polyamory, sexual self-expression, erotica writing, and more — to thousands of people around the US and Canada. Inspired by her sex education work, Moon writes screenplays, stage plays, and teleplays that explore the complexities of identity, sexuality and desire,Instagram: allison_moongirlsex101.comSupport the Show.Connect with us on IG and more:Curious Fox @wearecuriousfoxesEffy Blue @coacheffyblueJacqueline Misla @jacquelinemisla Email us or send a voice memo: listening@wearecuriousfoxes.comJoin the conversation: fb.com/WeAreCuriousFoxes
How to Support Queer, Trans, and Non-binary Young People with  Cory Silverberg
Nov 8 2023
How to Support Queer, Trans, and Non-binary Young People with Cory Silverberg
How can parents and caregivers create a safe and open environment where young individuals navigating their own identities feel comfortable exploring and expressing their evolving identities? What are the most common misconceptions or misunderstandings that parents and caregivers have about supporting queer, trans, and non-binary young people? How can they overcome these barriers to offer genuine support? What actionable steps can educators and community leaders take to ensure that queer, trans, and non-binary youth feel seen, heard, and validated in these spaces?In this episode, Effy and Jacqueline invite sex educator and author Cory Silberbeg back on the show to discuss how to support young people in their quest to understand their identity, sexual orientation, and gender in today's political climate. They discuss the role of “trusted adults”, how to facilitate conversations and field questions in the home, and how to ensure a support network in and out of the home environment. More about Cory Silverberg Raised in the 1970s by a children’s librarian and a sex therapist, Cory grew up to be a sex educator, author, and queer person who smiles a lot when they talk.Cory spends a lot of time reading, writing, and talking about sex and gender and are happiest working with others. Cory was a founding member of the Come As You Are Co-operative and worked as a researcher and television consultant for over 10 years. Cory is a core team member of ANTE UP!, a virtual professional freedom school founded by Bianca I Laureano. They also spend a lot of time helping other people make books.Cory is the co-author of four books including What Makes a Baby, the ALA Stonewall Honor Book Sex Is a Funny Word, and the forthcoming You Know, Sex, all with Fiona Smyth. Cory has been featured on NPR’s Fresh Air, and their books have been called “the books about sex that every family should read” by the New York Times.  Cory's life is full of kids. All of them know where babies come from. Some know more. Learn more about Cory at www.corysilverberg.com.IG: @corysilverbergTwitter: @corysilverbergFB: https://www.facebook.com/whatmakesababyWebsite: www.corysilverberg.comProfile in the New York Times Magazine: https://www.nytimes.com/2022/06/28/magazine/sex-ed-books-teens-parents.htmlANTE UP! Professional Development School: https://www.anteuppd.com/Support the Show.Connect with us on IG and more:Curious Fox @wearecuriousfoxesEffy Blue @coacheffyblueJacqueline Misla @jacquelinemisla Email us or send a voice memo: listening@wearecuriousfoxes.comJoin the conversation: fb.com/WeAreCuriousFoxes
Haunted House of Relationship Horrors Listeners Edition
Oct 25 2023
Haunted House of Relationship Horrors Listeners Edition
What relationship fears lurk in the shadows of our minds, sending chills down our spines? Can the art of storytelling serve as both an outlet for our deepest relationship anxieties and a means of processing them? Might the eerie embrace of Halloween be the unlikely balm to soothe these fears?In this special Halloween episode, Effy and Jacqueline delve into the anatomy of fear and go for a chilling foray into the Haunted House of relationship horrors once again. This time crafted with the brave contributions of our listeners, each chamber of this frightful abode captures a distinct relationship dread, reimagined. As we traverse this auditory maze, we're plunged into visceral scenarios that resonate all too deeply, creating a tapestry of fear, fascination, and shared human experience. An immersive treat that's equal parts spine-tingling and soul-touching—just in time for Halloween.Here’s a framework to come up with your own room:   What are you afraid of? being abandonedlosing myselfbeing trapped, etc.This will give you the theme of the room  What is a scenario that illustrates that fear? my partner will meet someone better than me and leavemy partner and children will need so much of me that I will lose myselfnon-monogamy is not an option and my partner is not interested in sex then I will never have sex again, etc.This will give you context for the room  What is a physical experience that can describe the feeling of fear? Think of it as a verb.FallingSinkingwalking on a tightropejumping from rock to rock over lavabeing pulled in all directionsShrinkinghanging off the side of a cliff, etc.That will give you the movement in the room that also will help your lister to empathize with your feelings. What helps you feel better? concentrating on all the unique things you bring to a relationshipasking your partner for validation when you feel insecurecreating guilt-free space to be on your own doing something you enjoy, etc.This will help you formulate your way out of the room.Support the Show.Connect with us on IG and more:Curious Fox @wearecuriousfoxesEffy Blue @coacheffyblueJacqueline Misla @jacquelinemisla Email us or send a voice memo: listening@wearecuriousfoxes.comJoin the conversation: fb.com/WeAreCuriousFoxes
Psychedelics, Sexual Trauma and Pleasure as a Healing Modality with Dee Dee Goldpaugh (Interview)
Oct 11 2023
Psychedelics, Sexual Trauma and Pleasure as a Healing Modality with Dee Dee Goldpaugh (Interview)
How might we challenge and expand upon the established medical definitions of trauma? Can our understanding of healing evolve to encompass not just the alleviation of symptoms but also the reclamation of joy and pleasure? What are the recent shifts in utilizing psychedelics as tools for trauma treatment?In this episode, Effy sits down with Dee Dee Goldpaugh, a psychotherapist, educator, author, activist, and the Clinical Director of Chrysalis Integrative Psychotherapy. Together, they embark on an in-depth exploration of the transformative potential of psychedelics in trauma therapy. Shedding light on prevailing medical models and their constraints, Effy and Dee Dee advocate for a more holistic approach, one that not only prioritizes the individual's wellbeing, reconnection to pleasure, joy and eroticism but also remains acutely aware of the broader social, cultural, and environmental implications of psychedelic use.To find out more about Dee Dee GoldpaughDee Dee (they/them/theirs) is a psychotherapist, educator, clinical supervisor, author, and activist. They are the Clinical Director of Chrysalis Integrative Psychotherapy. Dee Dee has taught and published widely on the topics of psychedelics, sexuality, trauma, gender, and spirituality. They have been a leading voice in the development of Psychedelic Integration Psychotherapy techniques, specifically with survivors of trauma and have published the first article to appear in an academic journal, Sexual and Relationship Therapy, exploring the intersection of sexuality, spirituality, and psychedelic healing. Dee Dee is a clinical supervisor for EMBARK psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy approach. They offer Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy as part of the team at the Woodstock Therapy Center and facilitate ketamine-assisted psychotherapy retreats. They have also completed the MAPS training in MDMA-assisted psychotherapy. Dee Dee is the author of the forthcoming book Feeling Good: How Psychedelics Can Help Us Reconnect To Our Sexuality, Reclaim Pleasure, and Rediscover Ourselves due to be published in 2024 by Inner Traditions. Dee Dee has been a presenter in the Sex Therapy Collaborative and a faculty instructor in the Trauma Therapy program at the Institute for Contemporary Psychotherapy. They have presented at The Alt Sex Conference Speaker’s Series, The Center for Optimal Living, Ante Up! and are contributing author in the book Queering Psychedelics. They have been featured in articles by Vice Magazine, Chacruna, The Albany Times Union, Medium, Brides, Psymposia, Refinery 29, and Psychology Today. Dee Dee runs therapist consultation groups in Psychedelic Integration Therapy. Instagram: @deedeegoldpaughWebsite: deedeegoldpaugh.comChrysalis Integrative Therapy: chrysalisintegrativetherapy.comSupport the Show.Connect with us on IG and more:Curious Fox @wearecuriousfoxesEffy Blue @coacheffyblueJacqueline Misla @jacquelinemisla Email us or send a voice memo: listening@wearecuriousfoxes.comJoin the conversation: fb.com/WeAreCuriousFoxes
Trauma from a New Lens with Dr MaryCatherine "MC" McDonald (Interview)
Oct 3 2023
Trauma from a New Lens with Dr MaryCatherine "MC" McDonald (Interview)
How do we navigate the multifaceted nature of trauma beyond the often reductive parameters set by the medical system? How is memory formation and storage impacted by trauma and how does that impact the trauma experience? Can our journey towards healing be supported by those other than professionals?  In this episode, Effy talks with trauma researcher and author, Dr. MaryCatherine "MC" McDonald, whose book, "Unbroken: The Trauma Response Is Never Wrong And Other Things You Need to Know to Take Back Your Life," offers refreshing perspectives in understanding and addressing trauma. Dr. MC introduces a perspective that views trauma responses as indicators of strength and resilience, challenging commonly held beliefs around vulnerability and fragility. As Effy and Dr. MC explore the neurological mechanics of trauma, they also discuss healing methodologies that move beyond standard medical approaches, emphasizing the power of self-articulation and individual paths to recovery.To find out more about Dr. MaryCatherine "MC" McDonaldMaryCatherine (MC) McDonald, PhD, is a research professor and life coach who specializes in the psychology of trauma, stress, and resilience. She has been researching, lecturing, and publishing on the neuroscience, psychology, and lived experience of trauma and stress for over a decade. She is passionate about destigmatizing trauma, stress, and mental health issues in general, as well as reframing our understanding of trauma in order to better understand and treat it.After receiving her master’s degree at The New School, where she researched traumatic loss and mourning, she went on to complete her PhD at Boston University. She has published several research articles and book chapters, as well as three books on trauma. The most recent book comes out in March 2023 with Sounds True publishing, and is called, Unbroken: The Trauma Response is Never Wrong (and other things you need to know to take back your life). In addition to her academic work, Dr. McDonald has a thriving life- coaching business. She has worked with many different populations including, combat veterans, victims of sexual assault and childhood trauma, previously incarcerated folks, those suffering from the loss of a loved one, people going through career transitions, dealing with burnout, working to fix family dynamics, and more. She has coached individuals clients and corporations since 2010, and created trauma-based curriculum for nonprofit organizations in New York, Virginia, and California. Instagram: @mc.phd TikTok: @mc.phdSupport the Show.Connect with us on IG and more:Curious Fox @wearecuriousfoxesEffy Blue @coacheffyblueJacqueline Misla @jacquelinemisla Email us or send a voice memo: listening@wearecuriousfoxes.comJoin the conversation: fb.com/WeAreCuriousFoxes
Age, Affinity and Dating with Ashton Applewhite (Interview)
Sep 13 2023
Age, Affinity and Dating with Ashton Applewhite (Interview)
What impact does a significant age gap between partners have on relationships? Are there common misconceptions surrounding women dating considerably younger men? Does age alone determine affinity, and should we limit ourselves to dating within our age groupIn this episode, Effy engages in a candid conversation with author and ageism activist, Ashton Applewhite. Together, they explore the profound effects of ageism on our perceptions of larger age gaps in relationships. Effy shares her personal experience of dating a younger man, prompting reflection on whether conflicts arise due to the age gap itself or if it's merely attributed to the age gap due to the ageist narrative prevalent in our society.To find out more about Ashton ApplewhiteAn internationally recognized expert on ageism, Ashton Applewhite is the author of This Chair Rocks: A Manifesto Against Ageism. A co-founder of the Old School Anti-Ageism Clearinghouse, she speaks widely at venues that have included the TED mainstage and the United Nations, and is at the forefront of the emerging movement to raise awareness of ageism and to dismantle it. In 2022 the UN+WHO named Ashton one of the Healthy Aging 50: fifty leaders transforming the world to be a better place to grow older.Twitter: thischairrocksFacebook: ThisChairRocksInstagram: thischairrocksYouTube: AshtonApplewhiteVideosLinkedIn: ashton-applewhite-64658Websites: thischairrocks.com  yoisthisageist.com  oldschool.infoSupport the Show.Connect with us on IG and more:Curious Fox @wearecuriousfoxesEffy Blue @coacheffyblueJacqueline Misla @jacquelinemisla Email us or send a voice memo: listening@wearecuriousfoxes.comJoin the conversation: fb.com/WeAreCuriousFoxes
Navigating Mismatched Kinks with Partners: Finding Common Playgrounds with Miss Shayla (Interview)
Jul 12 2023
Navigating Mismatched Kinks with Partners: Finding Common Playgrounds with Miss Shayla (Interview)
We are curious: How can we explore mismatched kinks with our partners? How do we find common ground and understand where the resistance is without creating pressure or being coercive? And what can be done if there's no common ground? In this episode, Effy enlists the expertise of a seasoned pro Dom, kink educator and a longtime foxy friend of the show Miss Shayla. Together, they embark on a candid conversation, delving into the intricacies of navigating mismatched kinks with partners. Effy and Miss Shayla offer valuable insights and strategies for approaching partners about kinky desires with respect, sensitivity, and consent. They unpack the complexities of finding common ground and explore alternatives when a shared playground for partners seems elusive.Links mentioned in the episode12 Step program fear inventory and resentment inventoryEnough To Make You Blush: Exploring Erotic Humiliation WorkbookTo learn more about Miss ShaylaMistress Shayla Lange is an NYC based Pro-Domme, co-creator of the kinky educational series “7Days of Domination”, and owner of New York’s largest female-owned DungeonInstagram: @YesMissShaylaWebsite: 7DaysofDomination.comSupport the Show.Connect with us on IG and more:Curious Fox @wearecuriousfoxesEffy Blue @coacheffyblueJacqueline Misla @jacquelinemisla Email us or send a voice memo: listening@wearecuriousfoxes.comJoin the conversation: fb.com/WeAreCuriousFoxes
Highly Sensitive Man: Navigating Sensitivity, Masculinity, and Relationships with Tom Falkenstein (Interview)
Jul 5 2023
Highly Sensitive Man: Navigating Sensitivity, Masculinity, and Relationships with Tom Falkenstein (Interview)
What does it mean to be a highly sensitive person (HSP)? How does high sensitivity differ between individuals socialized as men versus women? What are the unique advantages and obstacles faced by highly sensitive men in their relationships and daily lives? In this episode, Effy and cognitive behavioral psychotherapist and author of "The Highly Sensitive Man" Tom Falkenstein take a deep dive into the core characteristics of high sensitivity and examine how societal expectations and gender norms shape the experience of sensitivity for men. Tom and Effy aim to shed light on the distinct challenges and advantages that highly sensitive men encounter in their relationships and everyday lives and provide practical tools and strategies to empower highly sensitive people to thrive in an overstimulating modern world.To learn more about TomTom Falkenstein has worked as a cognitive behavioural psychotherapist since 2006. After obtaining his degree in psychology in the UK, he completed his postgraduate training in psychotherapy in Germany. He then moved back to the UK where he worked as a psychotherapist in London. During this period, he developed a particular interest in high sensitivity and working with highly sensitive people.  He has been training with Dr. Elaine Aron (author of The Highly Sensitive Person) since 2015. Currently practicing in Berlin, he also offers workshops for highly sensitive people in both English and German. The Highly Sensitive Man is his first book and was published in Germany 2017 and since has been translated into a number of other languages. Singer-Songrwiter-Activist Alanis Morissette  called the book 'a breath of fresh air in the midst of a cultural determination to reduce toxic masculinity. This book is a balm, a movement and a revelation."Instagram: @tom.falkensteinBook: The Highly Sensitive ManWebsite: hsp-eu.comSupport the Show.Connect with us on IG and more:Curious Fox @wearecuriousfoxesEffy Blue @coacheffyblueJacqueline Misla @jacquelinemisla Email us or send a voice memo: listening@wearecuriousfoxes.comJoin the conversation: fb.com/WeAreCuriousFoxes
Queering Up Wedding Season and Celebrating All Relationships with Ambyr D'Amato (Interview)
Jun 21 2023
Queering Up Wedding Season and Celebrating All Relationships with Ambyr D'Amato (Interview)
How can wedding ceremonies be updated to honor queer and polyamorous relationships? What can we do to celebrate a relationship when marriage and a wedding is not an option? What would it be like to celebrate an uncoupling, or the end of a relationship?Just in time for wedding season, Effy and Jacqueline revisit their conversation with queer wedding planner Ambyr D'Amato to challenge the idea that only certain types of relationships deserve to be celebrated with a ceremony. They discuss ways to honor all relationships and all of the phases of a relationship, including relationships that come to an end. To find out more about AmbyrAmbyr is a queer, intersectional feminist woman and a wedding planner. She wants the weddings she works on to be inclusive and joyful and welcomes all types of people especially LGBTQ+, multi-relationship, and multicultural families.Ambyr’s mission is to create a meaningful time for her clients on their special day and throughout their wedding planning process. Ambry approaches her work with these questions in her mind, “What would it feel like to breathe or meditate a little before working on your wedding budget? How can we create a positive experience for you, your family, and all of your guests? What would it feel like to be taken care of, listened to, and coached every step of the way?” Her family is Catholic, Muslim, and Hindu, so in whatever way love has brought her clients together, she can embrace it with an open heart and mind. Instagram: weddingsbyambyrWebsite: weddingsbyambyr.comSupport the Show.Connect with us on IG and more:Curious Fox @wearecuriousfoxesEffy Blue @coacheffyblueJacqueline Misla @jacquelinemisla Email us or send a voice memo: listening@wearecuriousfoxes.comJoin the conversation: fb.com/WeAreCuriousFoxes
Hot and Healthy Hookups and Sexual Citizenship with Allison Moon (Interview)
Jun 14 2023
Hot and Healthy Hookups and Sexual Citizenship with Allison Moon (Interview)
What exactly is a "hookup"? How can we create hot, healthy, shame free hookups? Is there such a thing as good etiquette for casual sex?In this week’s episode, Effy is joined by sex educator and author Allison Moon to discuss casual sex. They discuss hookup culture and how we can and should “be excellent to each other” as members of a sexual community. Effy and Allison consider how our approach to casual sex partners can be a reflection of our humanity and what we can do as “sexual citizens” to reform hookup culture.To learn more about AllisonAllison Moon is the author of five books including the instant classic sex-ed guide Girl Sex 101 and Getting It: A Guide to Hot, Healthy Hookups and Shame-Free Sex. She has been quoted in Cosmopolitan, New York magazine, and The Washington Post. A popular sex educator, Allison has presented her workshops — on strap-on sex, polyamory, sexual self-expression, erotica writing, and more — to thousands of people around the US and Canada. Inspired by her sex education work, Moon writes screenplays, stage plays, and teleplays that explore the complexities of identity, sexuality and desire,Instagram: allison_moongirlsex101.comSupport the Show.Connect with us on IG and more:Curious Fox @wearecuriousfoxesEffy Blue @coacheffyblueJacqueline Misla @jacquelinemisla Email us or send a voice memo: listening@wearecuriousfoxes.comJoin the conversation: fb.com/WeAreCuriousFoxes