Raising Kids & Loving Freely: Life After Monogamy | Ep. 105

In this episode, I had the absolute pleasure of speaking with Ariela Salinas Fiora. She’s an actor, writer, director, sex educator, and fierce advocate for fat, queer, and Latinx representation. But what really struck me was her deeply personal journey into ethical non-monogamy—especially within a decades-long marriage, while raising kids, and embracing her full identity as a woman over 50. We talked about everything: how she and her husband first explored the “seven-year itch,” how their kids found out about their open marriage, what it means to be oriented toward multiple partners, and how she’s dealt with jealousy (hint: it’s not what you’d expect). Ariela shares what it’s like to be affectionate, honest, and deeply committed in more than one relationship—and why she had to “come out” about it dramatically… onstage. This episode is about expanding our definitions of love, sex, parenting, and what it means to live authentically in our relationships—at any size, at any age, and on our own terms. Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome + Meet Ariela Salinas Fiora 01:12 – How we met: SAR and sexual attitude reassessment 02:00 – Marrying young & the start of non-monogamy 03:28 – The “Seven-Year Itch” conversation in the car 05:05 – When kissing isn’t just kissing 06:32 – Realizing she’s always been non-monogamous 07:55 – Fat, queer, and rewriting representation 09:20 – Telling the kids about their open marriage 10:47 – Bringing partners home: How it works in real life 12:10 – Polycules, partners, and blended connections 13:40 – Boundaries, intimacy, and making it work 15:00 – Jealousy, priorities, and staying grounded 16:25 – Final thoughts on love, honesty, and self-trust 17:55 – Outro + Where to listen for more Want a deeper look? Watch the full episode on YouTube for a more visual experience of today’s discussion. This episode is best enjoyed on video—don’t miss out! Karen Bigman , a Sexual Health Alliance Certified Sex Educator, Life, and Menopause Coach, tackles the often-taboo subject of sexuality with a straightforward and candid approach. We explore the intricacies of sex during perimenopause, post-menopause, and andropause, offering insights and support for all those experiencing these transformative phases. This podcast is not intended to give medical advice. Karen Bigman is not a medical professional. For any medical questions or issues, please visit your licensed medical provider. Looking for some fresh perspective on sex in midlife? You can find me here: Email: karen@taboototruth.com Website: https://www.taboototruth.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taboototruth YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@taboototruthpodcast About the Guest: Ariella Salinas Fiore is an actress, creator, director, death doula, and intimacy professional from Los Angeles. She was lucky enough to be born into a family of fierce and talented female artists who supported her by putting her on stage at every opportunity. A first generation Nicaraguan/Panamanian American , she is passionate about increasing inclusivity for both Latinx and plus sized folks in entertainment. Her first solo show, The Fat Girl's Guide To Life, Sex, and Everything In Between, premiered in 2024 at the Hollywood Fringe Festival and has since been welcomed in multiple venues around Los Angeles. Connect with Ariella: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AriellasFanPage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ariellasalinasfiore Karen Bigman, a Sexual Health Alliance Certified Sex Educator, Life, and Menopause Coach, tackles the often-taboo subject of sexuality with a straightforward and candid approach. We explore the intricacies of sex during perimenopause, post-menopause, and andropause, offering insights and support for all those experiencing these transformative phases. This podcast is not intended to give medical advice. Karen Bigman is not a medical professional. For any medical questions or issues, please visit your licensed medical provider. Looking for some fresh perspective on sex in midlife? You can find me here: Email: karen@taboototruth.com Website: https://www.taboototruth.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taboototruth YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@taboototruthpodcast Take control of your pleasure with my Pleasure Playbook , filled with tips to help you connect with your body and enhance intimacy. Download it now at www.taboototruth.com/pleasureplaybook . Take control of your pleasure with my Pleasure Playbook, filled with tips to help you connect with your body and enhance intimacy. Download it now at www.taboototruth.com/pleasureplaybook .