Episode 6: Understanding Men & Women in Relationships with Alison Armstrong

Show Notes In this episode of The Poly Tantra Kink Podcast, Laurie Ellington sits down with renowned relationship researcher Alison Armstrong for a powerful conversation about understanding differences between men and women and relating with clarity instead of conflict. Alison shares insights from over three decades of research, including her groundbreaking concept that men live with an "ever presence of death" while women live with an "ever presence of life." Together, they explore how these differences shape communication, intimacy, safety, and partnership across monogamous, open, and polyamorous relationships. This conversation offers practical tools for listening differently, verifying instead of assuming, honoring yourself first, and creating connection without punishment or self-abandonment. Alison's Gift for the Poly Tantra Kink Listeners As a special gift for listeners, Alison is offering her Making Sense of Men eBook for free. Making Sense of Men eBook (free with promo code) https://www.alisonarmstrong.com/products/makingsense.html Select "FOR ME" at checkout and use promo code AlisonGift2025 (Promo code expires 6/30/2026) Episode Highlights The "ever presence of death" in men and how it shapes behavior Women's connection to life, safety, and the eternal Why honoring yourself first is essential in relationships How assumptions create conflict and verification creates understanding Listening with different questions to transform connection Why Alison stopped coaching couples Understanding differences without making anyone wrong How curiosity replaces punishment in healthy partnerships About Alison Armstrong Alison Armstrong is a relationship researcher, author, and educator who has spent over 30 years studying human behavior to understand what brings out the best in men and women. Her work illuminates instinctive patterns that often undermine love and connection and offers practical, partnership-based alternatives. Through her books, seminars, live events, and extensive online programs, Alison has helped millions of people create more fulfilling relationships, stronger families, and empowered lives. Her teachings are widely referenced by therapists, coaches, and educators around the world.   Links & Resources Mentioned Alison Armstrong: https://www.alisonarmstrong.com The Queen's Code (audiobook): https://www.alisonarmstrong.com/products/queenscodebook.html Understanding Men program: https://www.alisonarmstrong.com/curriculum/und/um_details.html Understanding Women program: https://www.alisonarmstrong.com/curriculum/und/uw_details.html LUX program: https://www.alisonarmstrong.com/lux/ Alison Armstrong Online: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/PAXPrograms Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UnderstandMen Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheAlisonArmstrong Connect with Laurie Ellington Website: poly-coach.com Instagram: @polycoaching If this conversation stayed with you, notice where similar patterns show up in your own relationships — personal or professional. Awareness doesn't fix everything, but it often changes what's possible. For support navigating complex relationship dynamics with nervous-system awareness, visit poly-coach.com.   #RelationshipPodcast #UnderstandingMen #UnderstandingWomen #HealthyRelationships #RelationalPatterns #ConsciousRelationships