Wild & Sublime

Psychology & Relationships

About

A podcast about sex for everyone, no matter your preferences, orientation, or relationship style — based on the popular live Chicago talk show, hosted by sex educator Karen Yates. Panelists, interviews, stories, Q and A, and more reflect a dynamic and all-encompassing view of sexuality. Join the juicy party!

Episodes

  • Being Sexually Fluid - with Mark Cusack

    Mark Cusack, author of 'Fluid: A Guide for People with Flexible Sexuality', explains sexual fluidity and the mechanics of attraction. The episode explores how a broader understanding of sexuality can lead to increased ease.

  • Normalizing sex work - with Old Pro Kaytlin Bailey

    In this episode of Wild & Sublime, host Karen Yates speaks with podcaster and comedian Kaytlin Bailey about decriminalizing sex work, the impact of legislation, Bailey's journey into escorting, and her upcoming live show. Yates also briefl…

  • How to rent a dungeon

    Mistress Sophia discusses renting private dungeons and her services in an interview with host Karen Yates. The episode includes standup comedy from Manny Petty and mentions show sponsors and ways to support the podcast.

  • How can you live out your fantasies?

    This episode of Wild & Sublime features sexperts discussing how to fulfill deepest fantasies, includes audience Q&As, and Karen's Sermon on the Pubic Mound covering dating and fascism. Guests include licensed therapist Jake Penrod, coach G…

  • Finding Pleasure in These Times

    This episode of Wild & Sublime features panelists offering tips on increasing pleasure during stressful times. Host Karen Yates discusses grounding, and audience members share personal experiences.

  • Kink 101: What is a munch? Plus Alan Colorado needs our pervy help!

    This episode explains 'munches,' a social gathering for kinksters, and features storyteller Alan Colorado seeking audience ideas to broaden his sexual experiences. Information about Rowan Tree Counseling and Biofield Tuning is also include…

  • 2025 most downloaded! Relationship Anarchy with Nicole Thompson

    Therapist Nicole Thompson explains Relationship Anarchy, a concept that challenges conventional relationship rules and expectations, and can lead to greater freedom.

  • Autism, puberty, and young romantic relationships - with Robyn Steward

    Autism consultant and author Robyn Steward spoke with host Karen Yates about the importance of clear guidance for autistic tweens and teens regarding puberty and relationships. Steward has authored books including "The Autism-Friendly Guid…

  • Sex, Relationships, and OCD with Laura Federico

    Psychologist and sex therapist Laura Federico joins host Karen Yates to discuss how obsessive compulsive disorder impacts sex and relationships, including treatment options and the shame often associated with seeking help. They also explor…

  • ADHD + sex + intimacy with Dr. Lyne Piché

    Therapist Dr. Lyne Piché joins host Karen Yates to discuss the intersection of ADHD, sex, and intimacy. They explore tools for individuals and couples, including strategies featured in Dr. Piché's workbook.

  • Autism + sex, kink, and polyamory

    Season 9 of Wild & Sublime begins with a discussion on autism and neurodiversity, featuring therapist Elmo Painter-Edington. The episode delves into how autism intersects with sex, kink, and polyamory.

  • "Please dominate us!"--Newbie tips for power exchange [rebroadcast]

    This rebroadcast episode of Wild & Sublime features advice from somatic sex educator Cassie Porter and therapists Jason Best and Peter Navarro for individuals curious about power exchange, power play, and sensation play.

  • Summer (Sex-Positive) Comedy Show

    This episode features a live sex-positive comedy show from Chicago with performers Archy Jamjun, R.C. Riley, Amy Sumpter, and Joe Mellen. Audience members also share their go-to fantasies.

  • Somatic Experiencing to Resolve Sexual Trauma

    Somatic therapist Meggie Twible discusses Somatic Experiencing, a method that addresses the body's responses and nervous system to heal trauma and stress. The episode explores how this approach can be applied to sexual trauma and its impac…

  • Therapeutic BDSM–healing trauma with kink

    Dr. Yulinda Renee Rahman, creator of Therapeutic BDSM™, explains how trauma can be addressed through the collaboration of kink professionals, therapists, and clients. The episode features discussions with therapist Dr. Rahman and sex educa…

  • Do You Need a Surrogate Partner? [rebroadcast]

    This rebroadcast features two professional surrogate partners, River Roaring and Brian Gibney, discussing the intimate work of addressing sexual trauma. They explain how surrogate partnership helps clients confront unhealthy assumptions ab…

  • "Hands On"—sexuality work and healing

    Remi Newman, editor of "Hands On," and somatic therapist Mehdi discuss the complexities of sex work and healing through hands-on modalities with Karen Yates on Wild & Sublime.

  • Genital De-armoring with Rahi Chun

    Sexological bodyworker Rahi Chun discusses genital de-armoring as a technique to address held trauma patterns in the pelvis. This episode covers how the practice can help individuals move through painful sexual trauma.

  • Building Stronger Open Relationships with Kate Loree [rebroadcast]

    Polyamorous therapist and author Kate Loree joins host Karen Yates to discuss consensual nonmonogamy and strategies for regulating emotions during relationship conflicts, drawing from Loree's book “Open Deeply.”

  • Legislating for polyamory and diverse family structures

    Karen Yates talks with David Carlson, campaign coordinator for The Organization for Polyamory and Ethical Non-Monogamy (OPEN), about initiating local legislation for nondiscrimination ordinances that protect polyamorous people and those in…

  • Relationship Anarchy with Nicole Thompson

    Therapist Nicole Thompson explains Relationship Anarchy, a concept that involves rejecting traditional relationship rules and expectations. While it may seem disruptive, RA can lead to greater freedom in how individuals relate to each othe…

  • Living in a throuple, quad, & more! with author Laura Boyle

    Author Laura Boyle joins host Karen Yates on Wild & Sublime to discuss polyamorous homelife, covering topics like non-nesting partners and children, and exploring common assumptions and expectations within polyamorous relationships.

  • Are you Polywise? with author Jessica Fern

    Author and therapist Jessica Fern joins Wild & Sublime to discuss navigating relationship transitions when moving from monogamous to open dynamics or when existing ENM agreements change. The discussion is part of the Polyamory In Depth sea…

  • 2024 Most Downloaded! "More: a Memoir of Open Marriage"

    Molly Roden Winter discusses her bestselling memoir 'More' with host Karen Yates, covering her experiences with opening her marriage, motherhood, and caregiving. The podcast also announces an upcoming season focused on polyamory.

  • Flirty fall entertainment

    This episode of Wild & Sublime features stories from the show's sixth anniversary event, including accounts from Elizabeth Gomez and Ashley Meyer. Host and sex educator Karen Yates also leads a segment where audience members share personal…

  • Thee Debauchery Ball with Khari B.

    Khari B. discusses his long-running event, Thee Debauchery Ball, a Chicago-based kinky house music party for Black individuals. Filmmaker David Weathersby joins the host to discuss the documentary about the event and the importance of crea…

  • Redefining sex for more pleasure and excitement

    This episode of Wild & Sublime features a panel discussing how to move past limiting beliefs for a more exciting sex life. Panelists include sex coach Tazima Parris, therapist Jake Penrod, and ENM/kink coach Sarah Sloane, with host Karen Y…

  • Pride: more love, more openess

    The episode "Pride: more love, more openess" from the podcast Wild & Sublime features a panel discussing issues faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and strategies to build connections. It also includes an interview with drag artist Cindy Nèro and…

  • Sexy summer entertainment!

    This episode features storytelling from performers like Mistress BlaqueIvory and Alan Colorado, audience members sharing sex secrets, and a "Sermon on the Pubic Mound" by Karen Yates about great sex. It includes content from live Chicago s…

  • “Naked” truth with memoirist Fancy Feast

    In this episode of Wild & Sublime, burlesque artist Fancy Feast discusses her memoir, 'Naked: On Sex, Work, and Other Burlesques.' She shares how her work as a fat performer, phone sex worker, and sex toy store clerk illuminated American a…

  • Zachary Zane is a BOYSLUT! [Rebroadcast]

    In this rebroadcast episode of Wild & Sublime, host Karen Yates interviews Zachary Zane, author of "Boyslut." Zane shares details about his sexual journey and discusses how to embrace a more sex-positive and shame-free existence.

  • Tristan Taormino—sex-positive trailblazer

    Author and sex educator Tristan Taormino discusses her memoir, feminist porn, queer youth, and her relationship with her father. She also addresses why people may not be having sex currently.

  • Overcoming jealousy and envy in relationships

    Sex-positive therapists explore the roots of jealousy and envy, providing advice on managing these feelings in both open and monogamous relationships. The discussion features therapists Matthew Amador, Ari Kimble, James Chamerlik, and host…

  • "Sex When You Don't Feel Like It" with Cyndi Darnell [rebroadcast]

    Sexologist Cyndi Darnell discusses mismatched libidos and connecting to authentic desires in this interview, referencing her book "Sex When You Don't Feel Like It."

  • Being Black and kinky with filmmaker David Weathersby

    Documentary filmmaker David Weathersby speaks with Karen about his projects focusing on the Black kink community in Chicago. Topics include his upcoming series Sex in Color and his film Thee Debauchery Ball.

  • Using Tarot for Sex and Relationships

    Art therapist and counselor Alyse Ruriani discusses using Tarot for personal growth concerning relationships and sex. Host Karen Yates participates in an on-air reading.

  • “Entwined”—expansive polyamory with author Alex Alberto

    Author Alex Alberto joins host Karen Yates to discuss their memoir "Entwined," which delves into polyamory, community living, triads, and pansexuality. The conversation also touches on how the French and English languages describe being no…

  • Communication in bed—what's going on??

    Sex educator Karen Yates hosts a solo episode on improving communication in bed, exploring common barriers and offering solutions. The episode references Betty Martin and the Wheel of Consent.

  • Men, trauma, and sex with JoJo Bear [rebroadcast]

    This episode features an interview with somatic sex and intimacy guide JoJo Bear, discussing how trauma affects male-identified people and their capacity for pleasure. The conversation is hosted by Karen Yates.

  • "More: a Memoir of Open Marriage" with author Molly Roden Winter

    Author Molly Roden Winter joins host Karen Yates to discuss Winter's memoir, 'More,' which explores the journey of opening up a long-term marriage alongside the roles of mother and parent caregiver.

  • Sex resolutions 2024 and how to get there

    In this solo episode, host and sex educator Karen Yates explores the significance of personal pleasure and outlines actionable steps for enhancing one's sex life in the new year. The episode also mentions various resources and links for fu…

  • Consensual nonmonogamy - is it for you?

    This episode features a panel discussing consensual nonmonogamy, touching on communication, initiation, pitfalls, and the poly community. It includes audience questions and explores the considerations for opening relationships.

  • 2023 most downloaded! Sexual trauma, somatic healing

    This episode, the most downloaded from 2023 on Wild & Sublime, features host Karen Yates in conversation with somatic therapists Cassie Porter, Elmo Painter-Edington, and JoJo Bear. They discuss somatic healing techniques and their applica…

  • Teen idols with Gunn and Gomez

    Hosts Adrienne Gunn and Elizabeth Gomez converse with Karen Yates about how teenage celebrity crushes impacted their adult sexual lives.

  • How to spice up a long-term relationship: October live show

    Experts Tazima Parris, Tom Doctor, Helen Wyatt, and Karen Yates discuss reasons relationships lose their spark and provide guidance on how to address this, during the Wild & Sublime fifth anniversary live show.

  • Sex Q&As, comedy, and more: Oct 2023 live show

    The Wild & Sublime October 2023 live show included audience Q&As on sex topics, stand-up comedy from Archy Jamjun, and a "Sermon on sex intentions" by host Karen Yates. Sex experts Tazima Parris, Tom Doctor, and Helen Wyatt also participat…

  • Sex with Comedians: Adam Burke

    Standup comedian Adam Burke appears on the podcast to discuss his open relationship, dating in the UK versus the US, and assists host Karen with her dating app. The episode is part of the Lincoln Lodge Podcast Network.

  • Sex with Comedians: Raanan Hershberg

    Comedian Raanan Hershberg discusses pegging, sobriety and sex, dating, and film with host Karen Yates on the podcast Wild & Sublime. They also compare the films 'Blue Is the Warmest Color' and 'Out of Sight'.

  • Sex with Comedians: Sonal Aggarwal

    Comedian Sonal Aggarwal joins host Karen Yates to discuss her experiences with parental marriage pressure in an Indian family and explores dating app dynamics. The conversation also touches on the perceived benefits of being a massage ther…

  • Sex with Comedians: Gena Gephart

    Comedian and writer Gena Gephart discusses her work, including her podcast, humor style, and unique fan interactions. Host Karen Yates also shares perspectives on sex education and fetish play.