The Things We Don't Talk About with "The Kink Consultant" Amanda Dames

It's our 99th episode! (Maybe? Sort of? I haven't done the math...) And it's a great one. My guest Amanda Dames is a certified sex and relationship coach, former New York City dominatrix, and founder of The Kink Consultant. In this fascinating conversation, we explore the surprising overlaps between kink and bisexuality, plus we dive into shame, communication, and authentic self-expression.

Amanda shares her journey from discovering her own kinky desires at a young age to becoming a coach who helps individuals and couples navigate kink and fetish without shame. We discuss how and why couples struggle when one partner has desires the other doesn't share, how fantasies can actually strengthen intimacy, and why trust, consent, and honest communication matter far more than any specific sexual interest.

Whether you're kinky or not, this episode is about something bigger: learning to embrace the parts of ourselves we've been taught to hide. Sound familiar??

*This episode contains 5 minutes of bonus content on Patreon only beginning at around the 54-minute mark. Subscribe for bonus content, early access, and to help support this podcast: www.RobertBrooksCohen.com

In this episode:

* Amanda's path from professional dominatrix to kink coach

* The surprising parallels between kink and mixed-orientation relationships

* The difference between a kink and a fetish

* Why shame keeps so many people disconnected from themselves

* How couples can navigate differing desires without resentment

* Why fantasies aren't a threat to intimacy

* Masculinity, submission, and challenging cultural assumptions