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Candice Christiansen and Chris Kishiyama ask: what if monogamous couples started borrowing the communication rules of ethical non-monogamy? Drawing from Chapter 3 of Candice’s book, they break down why neuro-normative scripts are exhausting and how AuDHD and neuro-different couples can customize their relationships instead. From parallel play, hyper-explicit communication, and the absolute necessity of active solitude for AuDHD and neurodivergent adults, they're challenging the societal norms that leave so many partners burnt out. Episode Highlights: (01:39) Candice discusses her journey with unmasking and navigating the fluidity of sexuality and neurodivergent identity.(2:42) Why monogamous relationships should adopt the explicit agreements and communication standards used in consensual non-monogamy.(05:24) Replacing subtext and guessing games with clear, direct communication that accommodates different neurotypes.(09:36) Recognizing that a partner cannot fulfill every need, and how to distribute those needs healthily.(14:08) Shared schedules and transparent systems to build trust, especially for partners healing from betrayal trauma.(16:18) The value of introverted downtime to recalibrate and manage autistic burnout.(18:54) Choosing the relational autonomy practices that work best for your unique dynamic. Resources Mentioned:  Read Chapter 3 of Love, Sex, and Autism by Candice Christiansen for more on intersections and identities. Follow: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lovesexautism

In Episode 2 of Love, Sex, and Autism, Candice and Chris talk about PDA, Persistent Demand Avoidance and Persistent Desire for Autonomy. They discuss how PDA shows up in autistic relationships as well as several practical tools couples can use to support PDA, from Chapter 4, Daily Life and Executive Functioning from "Love, Sex, and Autism."

We didn’t plan it this way, but we promised to be real with you—so here it is. Right before the cameras started rolling for our very first episode, the two of us got into a disagreement. Instead of hiding it, wiping our tears, and pretending everything was fine, we decided to hit record anyway. In this incredibly raw and emotional premiere, you’ll see us navigate a tender, real-time moment of vulnerability. We don't just talk about the tools in Candice's book, Love, Sex, and Autism—we actually live them out right in front of you, demonstrating a real-time relationship repair while the emotions are still hot. It’s messy, it’s deeply personal, and it’s a firsthand look at what navigating mixed-neurotype intimacy actually looks like when the stakes are high. Thank you for holding space for us as we hold space for you. Welcome to the beginning of our journey.