In this episode, I’m exploring the other side of the slash and unmasking what it really means to be a submissive. Submission is often misunderstood as weakness or obedience, but that’s not what it is at all. It’s trust, it’s choice, and it’s connection. I talk about what submission looks like for me, why communication and safewords are signs of strength, and how giving power can be just as intentional as holding it. From brats and rope bunnies to service subs, littles, and masochists, I share the many sides of submission and how each one expresses trust in a different way. Whether you’re new to kink or just curious about the other side of the dynamic, this episode is all about finding strength in surrender. 💜 Episode Title: Unmasking a Sub🎙️ Host: Nova Monroe🎧 Listen now on Podbean, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and everywhere you get your shows.

In this episode, I’m going back to the basics and unmasking one of the most misunderstood roles in BDSM, the Dominant.   What does it really mean to be a Dom? Is it about power, control, leadership, or something deeper? I talk about what makes a good Dom, the difference between playing Dom and actually being one, and why real dominance is built on trust, awareness, and care, not ego.   From Gentle Doms to Primal, Service, and Pleasure Doms, I share how each style can look and how they connect with their counterparts. Whether you’re new to the scene or just curious about what healthy dominance really looks like, this episode lays the groundwork.   💜 Episode Title: Unmasking a Dom 🎙️ Host: Nova Monroe 🎧 Listen now on Podbean, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and everywhere you get your shows.

This week on Unmasking Kink, I’m talking about Shibari. Rope bondage, Japanese rope art, whatever you call it, it’s one of the most beautiful and meaningful parts of my kink journey. I’ve been self-tying for three years, but this week I got to rig for the first time, and it completely changed how I see connection and creativity.   In this episode, I talk about how rope brings me calm, the difference between tying yourself and tying someone else, and why safety and communication matter more than anything. I share my favorite places to learn, what kind of rope to start with, and the beauty in slowing down to create something together.   It’s not about control. It’s not about sex. It’s about art, trust, and the way rope can feel like a really good hug.   Here are a few resources I mention in the episode: Rory’s Brainworks on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RorysBrainworks HookedOnKnots on Fetlife: https://fetlife.com/hookedonknots Fetlife (main site): https://fetlife.com   Listen, learn, unmask.

When is the right time to bring up kink while dating, and how do you do it without it getting weird? In this episode, I explain why there really is no wrong way to ask, as long as it comes from honesty and respect. I share how to start the conversation naturally, how to set boundaries with confidence, and why clear communication and defined expectations are the foundation for real relationships, not just play.

In this episode, I break down what Daddy Dom/little girl really means from my perspective as a little. I share: What being a little looks like in my everyday life The difference between littles and middles Real-life caregiving moments with Scorpio Bratting as part of personality, not just behavior What Daddies get out of the dynamic Busting common myths about DD/lg DD/lg isn’t about children or abuse. It’s about two consenting adults choosing roles that bring comfort, structure, and joy. For me, it’s about balance, playfulness, and trust.

This week on Unmasking Kink, I dive deep into safe words, what they are, how they work, and why they matter. From Homer Simpson to Fifty Shades of Grey, safe words in pop culture don’t always get it right. But in real life, they’re the backbone of trust in kink. I'll share my first experience with safe words, explore verbal and non-verbal options, and explain why safe words aren’t just for bottoms, tops need them too. Plus, a look at group play, CNC, and what to do if a safe word is ignored. Safe words are the seatbelts of kink: most of the time you don’t need them, but when you do, you’ll be grateful they’re there.

One-true-way attitudes are everywhere in online kink spaces: “real subs never have limits,” “a Dom should never apologize,” “if you’re not 24/7, it’s not real.” In this episode, Nova Monroe breaks down why those statements are harmful, shares how she handles gatekeeping attitudes, and offers a better way: building your own rulebook. 💜 Listen in, roll your eyes with me at the gatekeepers, and remember — the only true way is the one that works for you.

I know I’m way late to the party, but I finally sat down and watched Fifty Shades of Grey for the first time—and I’ve got some thoughts. Big ones. The BDSM community loves to drag this movie, calling it abusive, unrealistic, or just plain harmful. But my take? It’s not the floggers or the contract that bothered me. The real issues are communication gaps, experience imbalances, and the one subplot that truly is dangerous: Christian’s grooming backstory. In this episode, I break down: Why the real power imbalance isn’t money, but experience. How the movie does show negotiation, safewords, and even aftercare (just not the way you’d expect). Why trauma doesn’t “explain kink,” but it does explain Christian’s walls in relationships. And the biggest red flag of all: the Mrs. Robinson subplot, and why it’s the most harmful part of the story. At the end of the day, Fifty Shades is fiction—not a field manual. So let’s talk about what it got wrong, what it surprisingly got right, and what lessons kinksters and vanilla folks alike can take away from it. 🎙️ Unmasking Kink is here every Friday—subscribe so you don’t miss an episode!

This week on Unmasking Kink, Nova Monroe explores one of the simplest yet most powerful tools in the kink world: the Yes/No/Maybe List. Whether you’re brand new to BDSM or just looking for a better way to communicate with partners, this little checklist can make all the difference. Nova breaks down what it is, why it matters, and how to use it—without overthinking or overcomplicating. Plus, a special milestone: the podcast has officially hit 200 downloads! Tune in for practical tips, a bit of personal reflection, and a preview of Nova’s printable Yes/No/Maybe List that will soon be available on Etsy. ✨ Clearer communication, safer play, and more fun—that’s the power of Yes/No/Maybe.

Your first munch doesn’t have to be scary. I break down what to expect, how to prepare and why it might be the best step you can take into the community.

Not every episode needs to be loud to hit hard. This week, I’m exploring the very first kink I ever recognized in myself, masochism. What draws someone to enjoy pain? Is it something to worry about, or something worth understanding on a deeper level? I’m breaking down common misconceptions, unpacking the psychology, and tackling the big question: is masochism a mental disorder, or just another way humans seek sensation, control, and connection? It’s a slower, more thoughtful vibe, but worth every second.     Articles referenced:DefinitionHow to Tell if I have Self Defeating Personality DisorderWhat is a Masochist.  

In this episode of Unmasking Kink, we delve into the tension between authenticity and acceptability in the kink community. Inspired by insightful posts from FetLife users Tittan and Vampyre, we explore the implications of sanitizing BDSM for mainstream comfort. We'll discuss personal boundaries, the importance of consent, and the value of embracing the raw, unfiltered aspects of kink. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the scene, this conversation invites you to reflect on the true essence of kink and the importance of preserving its integrity.  Featured FetLife Writers: Tittan – “When Kink Gets Tamed: The Dangers of Vanilla-fying BDSM” Vampyre – “BDSM Isn’t About Making Outsiders Comfortable”

You’ve probably asked yourself: “Am I kinky? Or just curious?”“Does liking [insert thing here] make me into kink?”“Do I have to pick a side?” The answers? Could be both, possibly, and absolutely not. In this episode, I give my take on what it means to be kinky or vanilla, or somewhere in between. We’ll talk about how those labels aren’t fixed, what actually “counts” as kink, and how to start exploring. Topics include: The difference between kink and vanilla Why “what counts as kink” depends on who you ask Where to look for real, respectful information Whether you're seasoned, curious, or still figuring it out—you belong here. Resources mentioned: FetLife: https://fetlife.com Chief’s Sex Menu: https://kinkyevents.co.uk/sex-menu Shibari on YouTube (my favorite video): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HTnFlfm04uk Local classes and munches: Search via FetLife or reach out to event organizers More: https://unmaskingkink.com

Description:   In this debut episode of Unmasking Kink, Nova Monroe breaks down what kink actually is—and what it isn’t. We talk about the difference between kink and BDSM, explore how kink doesn’t always have to be sexual, and tackle the question: Is this normal? (Spoiler: yes.) Whether you’re curious, questioning, or just here to learn, this episode gives you a shame-free, honest look at how broad and human kink really is.   Show Notes & Resources:     Articles & Resources Referenced:   Healthline – What Is Kink? Business Insider – List of Kinks, According to Experts Verywell Mind – Understanding Sexual Kinks and Fetishes Kinkly – Kink Glossary & Psychology of Kink National Coalition for Sexual Freedom – https://www.ncsfreedom.org Focus on the Family – Sexual Behavior Outside of God’s Design Institute for Family Studies – Sexual Liberation Is Not Sexual Freedom Covenant Spice – Christian sex-positive resource: https://covenantspice.com     Connect with Nova: Website: unmaskingkink.com Submit questions, sources, or feedback via the contact form!  

Welcome to Unmasking Kink! Let me start by introducing myself, and give you the low down on what to expect from Unmasking Kink and the community we're going to build together!

In this short trailer, I’m introducing Unmasking Kink! A new podcast for anyone curios about kink, BDSM, or the lifestyle. I’m Nova Monroe, your friendly research nerd, here to dig into the questions you might not know how, (or who) to ask. Whether your Vanilla, a Veteran, or somewhere in between, you’re welcome here. Submit your questions, anonymously or not, at UnmaskingKink.com and let’s learn about it together. Hit follow and get ready to Unmask what Kink is all about