Welcome back, Frank!

Frank Arthur Smith is back on the show to talk about his comedy series, non-monogamy in queer media, and much, much more! He was last on the show for episode 413 to talk about Open To It, his LGBTQIA+ comedy series.

Frank is a queer writer/director/actor/producer originally from Boston. He was most recently staffed on children's comedy OCEAN EXPLORERS on YouTube. Previously, he wrote on Disney Channel’s RAVEN’S HOME.

He also starred in Episode 5 of Emmy Award-nominated TIDYING UP WITH MARIE KONDO on Netflix. His LGBTQIA+ comedy series, OPEN TO IT, in which he stars, writes, directs, and Executive Produces, debuted at Outfest, the largest queer film festival in the world, and received over 1 million views online, before being acquired by OUTtv, a Canadian cable channel available in over 15 million homes, and US streaming service with over 1 million subscribers. The show can be seen worldwide at opentoitseries.com and features RUPAUL'S DRAG RACE stars Manila Luzon, Laganja Estranja, Honey Davenport, and Pandora Boxx, as well as Deaf drag queen influencers, Deafies in Drag.

Today, Frank talks about the following topics with us surrounding polyamory and the relationship dynamics of non-monogamy:

• In Episode 4, you tackle the theme of feeling left out when a partner prefers someone else. How common is this issue in real non-monogamous relationships?

• Shame and struggles with body image in the queer community.

• What are some early signs that preference or favoritism might be developing in a triad or other multi-partner dynamic?

• How can someone address feelings of being left out without coming across as possessive or controlling?

• In your experience, what are some healthy ways to balance attention and affection among multiple partners?

• How do you think this issue manifests differently in queer couples compared to other relationship structures?

• What advice would you give to someone who feels they're always the "least preferred" partner in their relationships?

• How can partners work together to ensure everyone feels valued and included?

He also tackles the topics of jealousy and communication within non-monogamous relationships:

• Episode 11 deals with reconciling jealousy despite claiming to be "above it.” Can you tell us a little more about what comes up in that episode and what inspired it?

• How can someone distinguish between healthy concern and unhealthy jealousy?

• How do the characters in "Open To It" navigate these feelings? Are there lessons viewers can apply to their own lives?

• In Episode 4, Cam is hurt by Greg's solo hookup and missed performance. How crucial is open communication in situations like this?

• What are some common communication pitfalls in non-monogamous relationships, and how can people avoid them?

• How can partners create a safe space for vulnerable conversations about jealousy and insecurity?

• What role does self-reflection play in addressing jealousy in non-monogamous relationships?

Lastly, Frank offers some practical advice about non-monogamy by answering these questions:

• Frank, you've mentioned that you and your partner Matt have learned some valuable lessons. Can you share some insights about maintaining "even ground" in partnerships?

• You've said you rarely see people solo. Can you elaborate on why that works for you? How might others decide if this approach is right for them?

• How do you use group text threads to keep everyone on the same page? What other tools or practices have you found helpful for maintaining transparency?

• For our listeners who might be struggling with jealousy or feeling left out, what concrete steps can they take to address these feelings?

• How can people set and respect boundaries in non-monogamous relationships without feeling like they're being too restrictive?

• What are some strategies for building and maintaining trust among all partners in a non-monogamous dynamic?

• How can someone new to non-monogamy start developing the emotional skills needed for these complex relationship structures?

• What's the most important lesson you've learned about maintaining healthy non-monogamous relationships that you wish you'd known earlier?

Find Frank on TikTok and Instagram @frank.arthur.smith and check out his comedy series’ Instagram @opentoitseries!