Passion101 Moving Survey!

We’re taking a break during June while we prepare for our big move to 317 South Street, but in the meantime, we would love to hear from you! We are working to expand Passion101, and we want to know what you’re looking to see from upcoming classes. Please take a minute to fill out a short survey, so we can better plan for our summer and fall schedules-  http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/FBWZBMG

We are always looking for new instructors! If you are an established educator, and have interest in teaching for Passion101, fill out our Presenter Application here- http://passion101.wordpress.com/about-faq/interested-in-presenting/

May Pre-Move Passion101 Classes

For those of you who haven’t heard, Passional Boutique and Sexploratorium will be moving at the end of May! We have a shortened class schedule this month to leave us time to relocate. Once we’re settled in our new location, classes will resume as usual.

May 5^th, 2pm
Flogging 101
with WiseProtector

Learn the basics of flogging! Topics include:

-Why Do I Flog Thee?
… and why am I nekkid in front of all these people?
Motivation and understanding from top to bottom.

-Connection
That’s the real secret.

-Safety Third!
(only because it’s the third thing we’ll be covering)

-Boredom and The Art of Flogging
When it looks really boring, it might be sublime.
REALLY understanding what’s going on.

-How to Hit
You probably thought this was the most important part.
Here’s enough to get to effective flogging.

-What’s Spinach Got to Do With It?
Double flogging and what I learned from a total green newbie to BDSM
There’s more than just how to double flog. Learning from others.

 

May 5^th, 5pm
What to Say After You Say “Hello”
with WiseProtector

Sure Fire Conversation for the Terminally Shy

Have you ever had someone you’re attracted to right in front of you? What did you say? Maybe you’ve felt all flushed and nervous. You both were checking each other out. No doubt, there’s an interest. And THEN…Nothing. Even if one of you screwed up the courage to say, “Hi,” what should be brilliant conversation was just withering
small talk, and a lot of quiet. Happens to a lot of us, doesn’t it? I have a suggestion. Some may say it’s a bit bold. But let’s get together and practice. It’s a way of finding out about a person. Find out if they’re right for you. More importantly, you both get to see if you’re right for each other.There’s more to it, but it all starts with knowing how to ask, and find out…. “What’s important to you?” And, you’re not just finding out about that person.The more you do this, the more you find out about YOURSELF. I promise, the worse that happens, is you can become an amazing conversationalist.

Presenter Bio:

Starting in the late 70′s before the interweb, before knowing anybody actually does this sort of thing, Wise had to seduce girlfriends into BDSM. The cornerstone of that seduction, is knowing what each other really needs, and fulfilling that need. This approach has been called, “clever,” “psychological”, “somehow unfair,” and even, “dangerously persuasive,” but Wise explains,
“All I do is lead people where they want to go, because I’m lazy, and because it works”
That’s the focus of most of his workshops, find out what you both really need and how you need to get it. Then lead them there. That’s how he gets pretty much whatever he wants.

Carter Steven’s Pocono Fall Fetish Fling ( in 1998? ) was his first foray into the public scene where Joe and candi taught him what they know about flogging. After learning from lots of people, he’s given workshops at the York Play Group, Brimstone, The first NDDS bootcamp and The Warehouse.

Wise is married to (not surprisingly) MrsWise, where they live in a surprisingly bucolic suburb North of Philadelphia. He hosts the nearby  BDSM of SEPA Social in Bensalem, PA.Wise finds it moderately disturbing to write about himself in the third person.

 

May 10^th, 7pm
Adult Playtime
with Screwsmart

As children we were encouraged to play.  Research widely supports the fact that playing allows children to build important skills like: creative expression, improved communication skills, and the ability to bond with others.  This workshop helps participants to approach sex in a playful manner!  Adults have enough pressure in our lives- don’t we deserve a little playtime?  Dynamic and engaging, the furies of ScrewSmart will help you laugh when things get absurd, reconnect with your imagination, and see your sexual landscape with wonder!  Bring an open mind and a willingness to laugh!  After all, these are the best tools we know for building a healthy and satisfying sex life!
ScrewSmart is a sex education collaborative formed to promote both individual and community sexual heath and satisfaction. Based in Philadelphia, it was founded in 2009 by three sex positive queer women who met while working towards human sexuality education masters. They came together with the goal of providing information and resources to a diverse adult audience.  ScrewSmart aims to facilitate a collective community dialogue that supports sexual exploration and health. They do this by providing educational workshops, hosting sex positive community events, and advocating freedom of expression for sexual minorities.  ScrewSmart works to build spaces where they can share our love for each other as friends and professionals while inspiring others to be engaged and informed sexual adventurers

 

May 17^th, 7pm
Strap-on Sex for Beginners
with Kale

Strap-on sex can be a fun and affirming activity for couples of all kinds, but figuring out where to start can be a difficult thing to tackle.  Do you find yourself wondering how on earth do all those buckles and straps work? And what kind of toy can I even put in this harness? Not sure if you’re looking for a simple underwear style harness or a sexy leather femme jockstrap harness?  This class will walk you through the basics of strap-on sex, including choosing a harness, choosing the right toy, and some basic positions and techniques for making your sexual dreams come true!  This class is open to individuals and couples of all gender identities and sexual orientations.

BIO

Kale is a recent graduate of Muhlenberg College with a B.A in sociology, concentrating in sexuality and gender studies.  They are a relatively recent transplant to Philadelphia, and have been a member of the Passional and Sexploratorium team for almost a year.  Kale is particularly passionate about sexual health and education and enjoy using their product knowledge to give both individuals and couples personalized attention to help choose the right toys and products. In their free time, Kale enjoys cooking, crafting, and dog-watching in Clark Park and has a soft spot for floral patterns and leather.

 

May 18^th, 6pm
Couples Communication
with David Dean Schwartz, LCSW

Communication is the life-blood of relationships.  It’s what helps us and our partners understand and meet each other’s needs.  It’s what helps us interrupt negative patterns and dynamics.  It’s what allows us to truly know our partners, and them to truly know us.  But it’s hard to do well.  Unboundaried communication can lead to blame, defensiveness, and a relationship that gets stuck in the mud.  This is especially true when talking—or NOT talking—about our sex lives.  Nothing mires down our sex lives more than unresolved, unaddressed issues in a relationship.  This workshop is for people who are—or want to be—in a sexual relationship.  In this workshop, we will focus on:

o   The languages of sex—charged vocabulary, and when/how to use it.

o   Why it’s difficult and threatening to talk about sex—even with the people we’re having sex with.

o   Why it’s important to feel heard, and how to help your partner feel heard.

 

May 19^th, 5pm
Dancing with Myself- Female Masturbation 101
with Andrea Renae

In honor of National Masturbation Month, learn about the anatomy, physiology, and psychology of female masturbation, with an emphasis on sex toy selection and use. Learn which techniques, tools and toys can make your solo adventures more frequent, convenient and pleasurable.

 

Presenter Bio:

Andrea Renae is the Education Coordinator at Sexploratorium. She has been involved in community based sex education for the past 5 years; teaching topics ranging from healthy relationships to STI prevention to Kink 101. Andrea uses her work in sex education and advocacy as a means to empower others to make informed decisions about their sexual health and pleasure.

Interview with ScrewSmart, “Starting at the Bottom: An Intro to Anal Play” Edition

This Friday, March 29th, our favorite sex education trio, ScrewSmart, will be stopping by Sexploratorium to discuss the ins and outs of anal sex! I had the opportunity to ask the Screws some questions about the class, and sex education in general. Q and A is posted below.

After sitting in on “Starting at the Bottom” once before, I can fully attest that this is a class you don’t want to miss! If you are looking for an engaging atmosphere and an open, welcoming group to learn about anal sex with, this is your chance. And remember, no matter how you identify, as long as you have an ass, or know someone that does, you are welcome to come join in the fun! Tickets are available online now at- http://startingatthebottom.eventbrite.com/!

 

1.   What is your favorite sex education topic to teach and why?

My personal favorite sex education topic to teach is actually anal sex!  It is so thrilling to be able to take the stigma out of such a taboo activity.  I love seeing the participants’ faces when they begin to really get that enjoying anal play doesn’t mean anything about them (other than they enjoy anal play), that pain is not a requirement of anal sex, and that they can play in the backyard without worrying about getting messy.  The ScrewSmart screws are Anal Activists for life!  Xoxo – J.D.

J.D. Ackerman, MEd is a new media sex educator and sexuality writer with a Masters of Education in Human Sexuality.  She works online, creating a sex-positive community with HotMoviesForHer.com, a video-on-demand adult movie site specifically for women.

With a focus on pleasure education and queer sexuality, J.D. spends her days making sure that every person is experiencing the most sexual pleasure they can, as well as baking, sewing, crafting and pretty much doing anything else that involves her hands.

 

2.   What can students expect to get out of “Starting at the Bottom: An Intro to Anal Play?

Students can expect to come to our Anal Sex workshop and get some good booty vitamins in terms of tips and techniques, but they’ll also get a short anatomy lesson, a chance to play games, and hear about other people’s anal musings. The Screws work hard to set a fun and inviting tone in our workshops where all questions are considered and laughing is encouraged. Starting at the Bottom is one of our blockbuster workshops, so people should also come knowing that they’ll leave with dynamite resources as well as ideas.

oxxo

-rebecca

Rebecca Alvarez, MSW, LSW,
MEd emerged as a fledgling sex educator in 2004 in New York City and took the long and winding road to co-found ScrewSmart. She believes that the medical world has much to learn about patient-centered and pleasure-aware care and to this ends, she has taught as a Gynecological Teaching Associate and a facilitator for the American Medical Student Association’s Sexual Health Scholar’s program.

Currently, she works as HIV Mental Health Counselor and a board member to the Center for Sexual Pleasure and Health. She spends her time wooing strangers with her degrees in Social Work and Education in Human Sexuality from Widener University, playing ukulele, crafting, and reading scifi.

 

 3.   What is your favorite “fun fact” about anal sex?

I love this question- even though it’s so hard to pick just one fun fact!  I would say that my favorite fun fact is that the reason people often feel like they have to poo after or during anal sex (even if they just recently emptied their bowels) is because anal sex often stimulates a muscle that wraps around the rectum called the puborectalis muscle.  This muscle usually signals to the brain when you do have to poo – it’s just a misfiring of a normal messaging system. – Kira

Kira Manser,  MSW, LSW, MEd started her formal career as a sex educator at a feminist run sex shop in Providence, where she helped open a Sexuality Resource Center.  She still keeps half of her heart in PVD serving on the board of The Center for Sexual Pleasure and Health.  She’s worked in many different areas of sexuality, including: directing a high school peer sex-ed program, as a gynecological training associate, facilitating small groups of med students for the Sexual Health Scholars Program, and recently completing a dual degree in social work and education in human sexuality masters program at Widener University.

She’s now starting her doctorate work to fulfill her dream of being a doctor donkey, and is working part-time as a trainer for Mazzoni Center.  When not working on anything sexuality related she can probably still be found guffawing with the Screws, dancing to pop music, or knitting.

Spring Class Schedule- April 2013

April 5^th, 7pm
Picking Up the Ropes: A Simple introduction to Rope Bondage
with Sir Brian
Interested in rope bondage but intimidated by the mountain of information and techniques available? This simple workshop is designed to take you through the basic theories of rope bondage and teach you the commonly used ties that will be the foundation for all of your rope work to come. From cuffs to harnesses, from public corsets to private sexy rope… relax! You don’t have to be a boy scout to keep your partner nice and secure!

Presenter Bio: Sir Brian is an alt-sex consultant and teacher. He discovered his love of all things sensually painful in London a couple of years ago, and has been on an obsessive quest for blood and tears ever since. He can easily be found “doing stuff” and “seeing things.”

 

April 13^th, 6pm
Erotic Bellydance 101
with Tahnee
Bellydance has long been regarded as one of the most exotic and sensual of dance art forms the world over, and now you can learn the basics for harnessing these beautiful serpentine movements yourself! Through learning graceful posture as well as basic movements such as isolations and undulations, students will learn to charm, tease, and seduce with body language…all in a fun and engaging setting! Please dress comfortably, bring water, and prepare to go barefoot! Class size will be very limited due to space restrictions.

Presenter Bio:
Tahnee has been known as the “smiling face” and self-styled “resident big girl” of PASSIONAL Boutique and Sexploratorium for the past year, using her sense of humor and easy going personality to share knowledge and information with all she comes across. A fat-positive pagan kinky queer femme, she lives her life through the active exchange of experience with others.She has studied different forms of dance intermittently through her life, with tribal fusion and Middle Eastern bellydance being her passion for over 2 years and views  it as part of her spiritual practice. She is a member of Ekstasis Bellydance, a tribal fusion troupe based out of Philadelphia and Lehigh County.

 

April 14^th, 5pm
Non-monogamy: History and Practice
with Timaree
Many people find someone, fall in love and stay together. That’s monogamy. But many more people find someone, fall in love for awhile and break up. That’s serial monogamy. But these are not the only options. In this workshop, learn about the history of non-monogamous relationships, the nearly endless variety of options for folks who want to experience love and sexuality with more than one person, how to navigate the waters of swinging, open relationships, polyamory and more in a loving, responsible, ethical way that can strengthen connections between lovers.

Presenter Bio:

Sexologist Timaree Schmit earned a Ph.D. in Human Sexuality Education from Widener University, the culmination of a lifelong search for rational, sex-positive, empirically-based knowledge about sexuality. She now works as an adjunct professor, guest lecturer, and consultant.

As a youngster she read voraciously about sexuality and became the Go-To sage for friends and acquaintances who had sex questions.  This hobby eventually translated into becoming a certified HIV Prevention Counselor, PersUNL Peer Sex Educator and Adjunct Professor in Human Sexuality. Her foray into the world of sex writing started in 2003 as a weekly columnist for the Daily Nebraskan and has continued as sex writer for the Barbershop Notebooks , Philly Gay Calendar and East Coast Adult News.

Sex with Timaree podcasts cover a range of topics and feature amazing, entertaining guests whose lives and professions touch on sexuality. And was named one of the Top Five Noteworthy Sexuality Podcasts on iTunes.

April 19^th, 7pm
Kink 101
with Andrea Renae
Have you been looking for kinky ways to spice up your sex life? Have you read the 50 shades series (or heard about it) and want to incorporate some of those hot, juicy scenes into your bedroom or play space? Or maybe you’ve just had some kinky inclinations but aren’t sure where to start. This class will give you a beginner’s look at how to play out these fantasies in safe, sane, consensual, and realistic way! We will discuss what BDSM is, types of play, scene negotiation, toys and implements, play (party) etiquette, and more!Class is open to people of all sexualities and genders, partnered or not.

Presenter Bio:

Andrea Renae is the Education Coordinator at Sexploratorium. She has been involved in community based sex education for the past 5 years; teaching topics ranging from healthy relationships to STI prevention to Kink 101. Andrea uses her work in sex education and advocacy as a means to empower others to make informed decisions about their sexual health and pleasure.

 

April 27^th, 6pm
Connections: Putting Emotion Into Play
with Wise Protector
For most Tops, getting the bottom spacey, happy, and experiencing a good connection is the focus of play. Getting a partner feeling that way, has way more to do with communication, emotion, and what’s going on inside our minds than physical technique. There’s all sorts of ways to get to sub-space. This workshop focuses on the idea of connecting with your partner, mentally, emotionally as well as physically. There are ways to connect in any situation, from first time play partners, to intensifying what you already have naturally with a long term, loving partner. You’ll get a chance to try some of the ideas and you can pick what fits for you.

 Presenter Bio:

Starting in the late 70′s before the interweb, before knowing anybody actually does this sort of thing, Wise had to seduce girlfriends into BDSM. The cornerstone of that seduction, is knowing what each other really needs, and fulfilling that need. This approach has been called, “clever,” “psychological”, “somehow unfair,” and even, “dangerously persuasive,” but Wise explains,
“All I do is lead people where they want to go, because I’m lazy, and because it works”
That’s the focus of most of his workshops, find out what you both really need and how you need to get it. Then lead them there. That’s how he gets pretty much whatever he wants.

Carter Steven’s Pocono Fall Fetish Fling ( in 1998? ) was his first foray into the public scene where Joe and candi taught him what they know about flogging. After learning from lots of people, he’s given workshops at the York Play Group, Brimstone, The first NDDS bootcamp and The Warehouse.

Wise is married to (not surprisingly) MrsWise, where they live in a surprisingly bucolic suburb North of Philadelphia. He hosts the nearby  BDSM of SEPA Social in Bensalem, PA.Wise finds it moderately disturbing to write about himself in the third person.

Spring Has Sprung at Passion 101- March 2013 Classes

March 8^th, 7pm
Pet Play 101
with ScorpiusLupus
An introduction class to the non-sexual aspects of various types of petplay. This includes puppy play, pony play, and kitten play

Presenter Bio:

ScorpiusLupus or Aaron is both a puppy and a handler. He has taught beginner and advance (non-sexual) petplay classes at The Geeky Kink Event. In the past he has built and ran the petplay areas at parties such as NYC’s Myth, The Geeky Kink Event’s petting zoo, and soon Philadelphia’s own Aviary. He’s also built obsticle courses for The Floating World petplay area. He has never had a bad review for his classes and they are sure to leave you with a few good chuckles.

 

March 9th, 5pm
Flogging 101
with WiseProtector

Learn the basics of flogging! Topics include:

-Why Do I Flog Thee?
… and why am I nekkid in front of all these people?
Motivation and understanding from top to bottom.

-Connection
That’s the real secret.

-Safety Third!
(only because it’s the third thing we’ll be covering)

-Boredom and The Art of Flogging
When it looks really boring, it might be sublime.
REALLY understanding what’s going on.

-How to Hit
You probably thought this was the most important part.
Here’s enough to get to effective flogging.

-What’s Spinach Got to Do With It?
Double flogging and what I learned from a total green newbie to BDSM
There’s more than just how to double flog. Learning from others.

Presenter Bio:

Starting in the late 70′s before the interweb, before knowing anybody actually does this sort of thing, Wise had to seduce girlfriends into BDSM. The cornerstone of that seduction, is knowing what each other really needs, and fulfilling that need. This approach has been called, “clever,” “psychological”, “somehow unfair,” and even, “dangerously persuasive,” but Wise explains,
“All I do is lead people where they want to go, because I’m lazy, and because it works”
That’s the focus of most of his workshops, find out what you both really need and how you need to get it. Then lead them there. That’s how he gets pretty much whatever he wants.

Carter Steven’s Pocono Fall Fetish Fling ( in 1998? ) was his first foray into the public scene where Joe and candi taught him what they know about flogging. After learning from lots of people, he’s given workshops at the York Play Group, Brimstone, The first NDDS bootcamp and The Warehouse.

Wise is married to (not surprisingly) MrsWise, where they live in a surprisingly bucolic suburb North of Philadelphia. He hosts the nearby  BDSM of SEPA Social in Bensalem, PA.Wise finds it moderately disturbing to write about himself in the third person.

 

March 23rd^th, 5pm
Troubleshooting Your Sex Life
with Timaree
Visualize your ideal sexual and romantic life and compare it to reality. Is there a disconnect and what can be done to bridge the gap? Whether you suspect your sex life is in need a tune up or just want to make sure you have the right tools ready, there is something for everyone in this workshop.Work on effective and open communication with partners and negotiating sexual boundaries, find resolutions to sexual dysfunctions, and figure out what to do about desires and behaviors that cause  anxiety. We examine a number of common concerns and the best practices used by sex therapists to counter them.

Presenter Bio:

Sexologist Timaree Schmit earned a Ph.D. in Human Sexuality Education from Widener University, the culmination of a lifelong search for rational, sex-positive, empirically-based knowledge about sexuality. She now works as an adjunct professor, guest lecturer, and consultant.

As a youngster she read voraciously about sexuality and became the Go-To sage for friends and acquaintances who had sex questions.  This hobby eventually translated into becoming a certified HIV Prevention Counselor, PersUNL Peer Sex Educator and Adjunct Professor in Human Sexuality. Her foray into the world of sex writing started in 2003 as a weekly columnist for the Daily Nebraskan and has continued as sex writer for the Barbershop Notebooks , Philly Gay Calendar and East Coast Adult News.

Sex with Timaree podcasts cover a range of topics and feature amazing, entertaining guests whose lives and professions touch on sexuality. And was named one of the Top Five Noteworthy Sexuality Podcasts on iTunes.

 

March24th, 5pm
(Re)Constructing Sex and Gender Through Writing
with Jeremy Cornelius
This writing workshop will delve into the transformative ability of language relating to sex and gender. Exploring creative and playful avenues of sex and gender through the medium of writing can enable many to construct empowered voices.  It can also be a route to healing by analyzing our experiences and our fantasies and making the imaginary our embodied reality. Drawing from writers, artists, and sex educators such as Alison Bechdel, Jeanette Winterson, Susie Bright, Kate Bornstein, Gloria Anzaldua, Michelle Tea, and Phoebe Gloeckner, this workshop will explore the complexities of sex and gender through fiction and nonfiction narratives with exercises and discussions to produce work from attendants.

Jeremy’s Bio:

Jeremy Cornelius received his B.A. in creative writing and women’s and gender studies from Beloit College, is presenting on queer identities and writing at the Queer Studies Conference, the Southeastern Women’s Studies Association Conference, and The Popular Culture Association Conference in spring 2013, and has presented on zine making at the 2012 National Women’s Studies Association Conference. They also like dressing like a sailor and have been published by Bitch Flicks for their essay on gender and horror films.

 

March 29th, 7pm
Starting At The Bottom: An Intro to Anal Play
with ScrewSmart
Where do you start when you want to learn new information and pleasure heightening tricks? At the bottom, of course, and that is just where this anal 101 begins. From the basics of safety and starting out, to the perfect techniques and tricks to get your ass begging for more, this workshop will calm your fears, answer your questions and most definitely welcome you into the wonderful world of anal play. However you identify, as long as you have an ass, or know someone that does, you are welcome to come join in the fun!

 

March 30^th, 5pm
Rope Couture
with Ari
Rope Couture: That’s right!  Wearable Rope Clothing!Are you going out on the town and find you have nothing to wear? Do you have a ton of rope sitting in the corner waiting to be used? Here’s an idea…wear rope!Rope is a great medium for creating a unique outfit that nobody else will ever get to wear. No two looks are ever the same and the possibilities for creating a look are endless.  In this class we’ll cover the basics from the original concept to creating a framework for your dress to the finished outfit.Participation is encouraged though not required. It is recommended that you bring a partner/bottom if you choose to participate. Experience with rope and weaving is a plus but the most important thing is to bring your creativity!

Love Is In The Air at Passion101!

Just in time for Valentines Day; Passion101 offers all the classes you’ll need to excite your lover. Learn how to perform a titillating strip tease, incorporate corsets into your wardrobe, choose the best toys for a sexy gift, and give your honey a rub down they’ll never forget!

 

February 2^nd, 5pm
How To Strip For Your Lover
with Kitty Victorian

The truth is, most women have, at one time or another, fantasized about stripping. Many have even tried out some moves on their lovers. Sound like fun? It is! A striptease is a great way to show your partner how sexy you think you are, and believe me, he or she will agree. But before you begin there are some very important steps to a sexy and successful strip.  Burlesque University’s Headmistress, Kitty Victorian,  will give you all the tools you need for the preparation, the practice and the showtime!

Presenter Bio:

When searching for the quintessence of burlesque and character performance, one need look no further than Kitty Victorian. As Washington, DC’s most recognized name in Burlesque, Kitty is a master of the art of the classic strip tease in addition to her growingreputation as a character performer and impersonator. Kitty’s influence has expanded well beyond the DC metro area through her performances in cities across the US and Canada. Her tantalizing, titillating and often comedic performances leave audiences in awe and aching for more.

As a burlesque performer, Kitty conquered DC in 2004, when she founded DC’s first burlesque troupe, the DC Gurly Show. Since 2005, the troupe has held numerous performances at Club Chaos and Kitty has produced many successful shows for the troupe at other venues, including the Crucible, Palace of Wonders and Club Chaos. As a producer and director, Kitty has branched out from the DC Gurly show to produce a multitude of other professional burlesque and variety shows in DC and Baltimore at theaters, bars, and clubs, and has brought in guest performers from Philadelphia, New York, Chicago, San Diego, San Francisco, LA, Reno and Las Vegas.

Kitty Victorian has been teaching burlesque since 2003 and opened the proverbial doors of Burlesque University in Washington, DC September of 2006.  Since then, Burlesque University has been a huge success and has opened its doors in Baltimore, Richmond, Chicago, Phoenix, Tucson, Fresno and Reno.

 

February 8^th, 7pm
Corsets 101
with Tahnee

Real corsets are fun and functional. Not only do they provide great back support, they create and elegant body-sculpting fashion aesthetic that is appropriate for business, formal and intimate occasions. Learn the basic care and feeding, lacing techniques and style possibilities in this interactive workshop where students will each take turns lacing themselves and each other into a variety of corsets designed for men and women: fashion, fantasy and fetish.

 

February 9^th, 5pm
Sensual Play- The Art Of the Tease
with Andrea Renae

Sensual play is the ultimate way to taunt and tease your partner. This unique form of kinky play can range from soft and gentle to painful and rough. With a wide range of toys and implements, you can create a constant buildup of excitement and anticipation to keep your partner on edge. This class will teach you all the techniques you will need to create a sexy scene your partner will never forget. Class is open to all sexual orientations and genders, partnered or not.

Presenter Bio:

Andrea Renae is the Education Coordinator at Sexploratorium. She has been involved in community based sex education for the past 5 years; teaching topics ranging from healthy relationships to STI prevention to Kink 101. Andrea uses her work in sex education and advocacy as a means to empower others to make informed decisions about their sexual health and pleasure.

 

February 10^th, 5pm
Building Your Toy Chest: Sex Toys For Beginners
with Andrea Renae

Are you curious about sex toys, but have no idea where to start? Have you purchased a few items for your toy chest (or that shoe box hidden under your bed), but found yourself disappointed when actually using them? Do you just want to know what good quality toys are out there? The sex toy industry is so vast and diverse, it’s easy to get a bit lost. But have no fear; this class will put you on the right path towards finding the sex toy(s) of your dreams! We will cover types of toys available and how they work, what to consider when choosing your toys, and what to avoid.

Presenter Bio:

Andrea Renae is the Education Coordinator at Sexploratorium. She has been involved in community based sex education for the past 5 years; teaching topics ranging from healthy relationships to STI prevention to Kink 101. Andrea uses her work in sex education and advocacy as a means to empower others to make informed decisions about their sexual health and pleasure.

 

February 11^th, 7pm
I’ll Have What She’s Having
with Reid Mihalko

Finally! THIS is what you wish they’d taught you in Sex Ed…

•  Do orgasms mystify you? Elude you? Challenge you? Intimidate you?
• Do you or your lovers get caught in the “Must-Orgasm Trap” and can’t seem to “get there?”
• Do you feel abnormal or broken when it comes to the “Big-O?” Or, maybe, you don’t know how to feel?
• Maybe you’re lucky when it comes to orgasm (yours or another’s), but you’d like to take your understanding to a black belt level or want to see if you can improve ‘em?
• And maybe, juuuuust maybe… You’ve got a friend who desperately need to take this class…

While everyone from Dr. Oz to Carrie Bradshaw talks about it, not everyone is mapping it out step-by-step, breaking it down, and giving you pragmatic tools, tips and tricks to explore, understand and become proficient in the art of the climax… Join professional sex geek Reid Mihalko of ReidAboutSex.com as he reveals all that he knows about orgasms -male and female! 

La petite mort, the Big-O, Climax, Coming, the Genital Sneeze…
Call it what you will, but most of us would benefit from
more sexual self-confidence when it comes to cumming!

In this humorous, frank and informative, 2-hour workshop you will learn:

• The basic anatomy of arousal for all bodies, how orgasm “works,” and how to increase your odds of achieving it
• Easy-to-implement ways to apply the knowledge above to actual lovemaking situations
• Common mistakes we make in bed with a partner (and when flying solo) that keep us from experiencing greater pleasure…
• Simple communication skills you can use to improve your partner’s bedroom techniques without embarrassing them…
• A few of Reid’s “black belt” sex tips and tricks for oral sex, hand-sex, and boinking!
• Ways to take sex and lovemaking “beyond orgasm” so you don’t get stuck in the “Must-Orgasm Trap”…
• And, if time allows, a live demonstration of an Energetic Orgasm… Yep! Climax with your clothes on!

 

Presenter Bio:Reid Mihalko  helps adults create more self-esteem, self-confidence and greater health in their relationships and sex lives, no matter what their self-expression of those happen to be.

From his rated-PG/PG-13 workshops (Cuddle Party, Speed-Flirting) to the rated-R (Iron Slut Sex Educator Showdown) to his explicit, NC-17 rated, Show-N-Tell sex education workshops (where audiences get to watch, take notes, and ask questions), Reid’s workshops have been attended by close to 30,000 individuals from myriad walks of life, orientations, relationship styles, countries and religions. Known for his charisma, wit and emphasis on integrity, Reid travels the country teaching, coaching, consulting and collaborating on fulfilling his mission: Create more self-esteem, self-confidence and health for adults in and out of the bedroom.

Reid has been a featured speaker at dozens of conferences on relationships and sexuality and is a sought-after presenter and teacher at colleges and sex positive stores across the country.

Reid has been a writer and producer on a number of films and television projects about sex and relationships, and appears regularly in the media. He has also appeared on the Emmy award-winning talk show Montel, Fox News, VH1’s Scott Baio is 45 and Single, Showtime’s Penn & Teller’s Bulls**t!, Canada’s The Sex Files and SexTV, and the short-lived Life & Style, on NPR, Sirius’ Maxim Radio and Cosmo Radio, and in Marie Claire, GQ, Details, People, Newsweek and The National Enquirer, as well as media across the globe in thirteen countries and at least seven languages.

 

February 16^th, 5pm
Non-monogamy: History and Practice
with Timaree

Many people find someone, fall in love and stay together. That’s monogamy. But many more people find someone, fall in love for awhile and break up. That’s serial monogamy. But these are not the only options. In this workshop, learn about the history of non-monogamous relationships, the nearly endless variety of options for folks who want to experience love and sexuality with more than one person, how to navigate the waters of swinging, open relationships, polyamory and more in a loving, responsible, ethical way that can strengthen connections between lovers.

 

Presenter Bio:

Sexologist Timaree Schmit earned a Ph.D. in Human Sexuality Education from Widener University, the culmination of a lifelong search for rational, sex-positive, empirically-based knowledge about sexuality. She now works as an adjunct professor, guest lecturer, and consultant.

As a youngster she read voraciously about sexuality and became the Go-To sage for friends and acquaintances who had sex questions.  This hobby eventually translated into becoming a certified HIV Prevention Counselor, PersUNL Peer Sex Educator and Adjunct Professor in Human Sexuality. Her foray into the world of sex writing started in 2003 as a weekly columnist for the Daily Nebraskan and has continued as sex writer for the Barbershop Notebooks , Philly Gay Calendar and East Coast Adult News.

Sex with Timaree podcasts cover a range of topics and feature amazing, entertaining guests whose lives and professions touch on sexuality. And was named one of the Top Five Noteworthy Sexuality Podcasts on iTunes.

 

Patricia Johnson and Mark Michaels teach sex- positive tantra techniques.

February 22^nd, 7pm
Great Sex Made Simple: Tantric Tips to Deepen Intimacy and Heighten Pleasure
with Mark Michaels and Patricia Johnson

In this class you will experience:

* Techniques for enhancing intimacy and pleasure
* Relationship as spiritual practice
* Keeping passion alive
* Making sexual energy concrete
* Esoteric ways to turn each other on
* Breaking out of habitual patterns

Many people think that studying sexual Tantra will reveal the arcane secrets of having great sex. In reality, there are no great secrets. Tantric sex has more to do with your attitude than with marathon lovemaking sessions, obscure techniques, or anything else. A simple shift in thinking is the most important element. Sex begins in the brain, and becoming familiar with a few important principles can make it easier for this shift to occur. Understanding these key concepts and incorporating a few techniques is a lot easier than you might think. In this workshop, you’ll be exposed to some basic Tantric concepts and learn some simple and practical ways to deepen your connection, both emotionally and erotically.

Presenter Bios: 

Mark A. Michaels (Swami Umeshanand Saraswati) and Patricia Johnson (Devi Veenanand), a devoted married couple, have been teaching Tantra together since 1999. Their approach combines traditional lineage-based Tantra with the best contemporary methods so that students can bring heightened awareness and an expanded capacity for pleasure into all aspects of everyday life. Michaels and Johnson are the authors of The Essence of Tantric Sexuality (Llewellyn, 2006), which won the USA Book News National Best Books 2007 Award in Health: Sexuality. Their second book, Tantra for Erotic Empowerment: The Key to Enriching Your Sexual Life (Llewellyn 2008) won the 2008 USA Book News Award, also in Health: Sexuality, was selected as an Indie Excellence Awards finalist in New Age Non-Fiction, and was a ForeWord Magazine Books of the Year Award finalist in the Body, Mind and Spirit category. .) Their meditation CD set, Ananda Nidra: Blissful Sleep (Projekt Records) was a finalist for the 2012 COVR Visionary Award for Innerspace/Meditational/Healing Music.

Michaels and Johnson wrote and appeared in two instructional DVDs produced by the Alexander Institute: Tantric Sexual Massage for Lovers and Advanced Tantric Sex Secrets. They have been featured on television (Good Day Colorado, AM Northwest, Naked New York), radio (Afternoon Advice and Nightcalls on Playboy Radio, Go to Bed with Cosmo Radio, The Derek and Romaine Show, and NPR’s A Chef’s Table) and have been quoted as experts in numerous publications and on many websites – from women’s magazines to dating websites to men’s magazines to GLBT- oriented media – including Redbook, Latina, Jane, Cosmopolitan, The Village Voice, Metro, Pregnancy and Newborn, More, Rockstar, Woman’s World, The Sydney Star Observer (Australia’s most popular GLBT weekly), Emotion (Germany), The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Tantric Sex, and The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Enhancing Sexual Desire. They have also contributed articles to various online and print publications, including Chronogram and Debonair, and give sexuality and relationship advice at Dick-n-Jane.com.

 

February 23^rd, 5pm
Tantric Erogenous Zones
with Mark Michaels and Patricia Johnson

In Tantric sexual practice, it is important to prolong the excitement phase. The Tantric and Ayurvedic traditions have long recognized specific zones of the body that are particularly responsive to stimulation, and some schools of Tantra (particularly in South India) have developed a systematic approach to the stimulation of these zones in order to produce high states of arousal. This system was introduced to the West by Dr. Jonn Mumford in 1976 and is still little known. In this workshop, we will introduce you to to these zones and the basic principles for working with them systematically.

Bring In The New Year With Passion101!

January 11th, 7pm
Pet Play 101
with ScorpiusLupus
An introduction class to the non-sexual aspects of various types of petplay. This includes puppy play, pony play, and kitten play.

Presenter Bio:

ScorpiusLupus or Aaron is both a puppy and a handler. He has taught beginner and advance (non-sexual) petplay classes at The Geeky Kink Event. In the past he has built and ran the petplay areas at parties such as NYC’s Myth, The Geeky Kink Event’s petting zoo, and soon Philadelphia’s own Aviary. He’s also built obsticle courses for The Floating World petplay area. He has never had a bad review for his classes and they are sure to leave you with a few good chuckles.

January 13th, 5pm
Building Your Toy Chest: Sex Toys For Beginners
with Andrea Renae

Are you curious about sex toys, but have no idea where to start? Have you purchased a few items for your toy chest (or that shoe box hidden under your bed), but found yourself disappointed when actually using them? Do you just want to know what good quality toys are out there? The sex toy industry is so vast and diverse, it’ easy to get a bit lost. But have no fear; this class will put you on the right path towards finding the sex toy(s) of your dreams! We will cover types of toys available and how they work, what to consider when choosing your toys, and what to avoid.
January 17th, 7pm
Successful Online Dating for the Rest Of Us
with Andrea Renae and Wes Fenza
Online dating can be tough, especially for those looking for a relationship that isn’t necessarily heterosexual, monogamous, and vanilla. Join Andrea Renae and Wes Fenza for a workshop on how to successfully date online, with a focus on kink, polyamory, and other hard-to-find preferences. This workshop is appropriate for anyone dating online, from beginners to advanced users. Learn how to write an interesting profile, select an attractive picture, send an attention-getting message, and connect with other like-minded people. The focus will be on okcupid and Fetlife, but many of the lessons can be applied to any online dating service.

There will be a photographer on site, so you can leave with a professional profile pic (photos are optional)! Participants are encouraged to create profiles on okcupid and/or Fetlife (we recommend both) ahead of time, and bring a laptop, tablet, or smartphone with you. Wifi will be available, so you can edit your profile during the workshop.

Andrea Renae is the Education Coordinator at Sexploratorium. She has been involved in community based sex education for the past 5 years; teaching topics ranging from healthy relationships to STI prevention to Kink 101. Andrea uses her work in sex education and advocacy as a means to empower others to make informed decisions about their sexual health and pleasure.

Wesley Fenza is an attorney working in South Jersey and Philadelphia. He and his wife have been polyamorous since 2009, and he’s been dating on okcupid since 2010, where he met his second primary partner. This will be his first time working with Sexploratorium, and he is looking very forward to the experience.

January 18th, 7pm
Sexuality and Christianity: Keeping the sexy without losing the faith
with Rev Bev
Has anyone ever told you that sex and Christianity don’t really mix? Well, that is definitely not so. In this class, we will identify the myths and the basic (erroneous) assumptions that conclude that Christians should not be sexy and instead make the case for a sensual and pleasure-centered Christianity. And yes, we might even use a few Bible verses, a bit of science, and plain common sense.

 
January 20th, 5pm
(Re)Constructing Sex and Gender Through Writing
with Jeremy Cornelius

This writing workshop will delve into the transformative ability of language relating to sex and gender. Exploring creative and playful avenues of sex and gender through the medium of writing can enable many to construct empowered voices. It can also be a route to healing by analyzing our experiences and our fantasies and making the imaginary our embodied reality.

Drawing from writers, artists, and sex educators such as Alison Bechdel, Jeanette Winterson, Susie Bright, Kate Bornstein, Gloria Anzaldua, Michelle Tea, and Phoebe Gloeckner, this workshop will explore the complexities of sex and gender through fiction and nonfiction narratives with exercises and discussions to produce work from attendants.

Jeremy’s Bio:

Jeremy Cornelius received his B.A. in creative writing and women’s and gender studies from Beloit College, is presenting on queer identities and writing at the Queer Studies Conference, the Southeastern Women’s Studies Association Conference, and The Popular Culture Association Conference in spring 2013, and has presented on zine making at the 2012 National Women’s Studies Association Conference. They also like dressing like a sailor and have been published by Bitch Flicks for their essay on gender and horror films.

January 24th, 7pm
Bottoms Up: Beginning Spanking & Impact Play
with Brooklyn
Have a naughty partner who needs to be taken over your knee and taught a lesson? Not really sure about the difference between a flogger and a riding crop? Curious about how to talk to your lover about adding a little hands-on spanking action into the bedroom? Negotiating play, giving a good bare-handed spanking, and knowing the difference between all of the different types of impact toys can be instrumental knowledge in creating a pleasurable experience when you’re new to blurring the lines between pleasure and pain. Though this class is focused more on practical knowledge for Tops, the psychology and experience of bottoms will also be discussed. Open to all genders and orientations.

January 26th, 5pm
Erotic and Sensual Trance
with Todd Stevens

This is a demo and Q&A session where you will learn about trance – what it is and how it happens. You will learn that everyone goes into trance at various times, and therefore, everyone can use this state for pleasure and change. You will learn exactly what’s possible when trance is applied to your sensual and erotic encounters.
Topics include:
• Trance and how to induce it
• Rapport, trust, and consent
• What can be accomplished
• No, it’s not mind control
• How long the effects last
• What kind of change is possible
• How to set and use triggers to cause predetermined effects
• Orgasms! (now that caught your attention)
• Instant arousal
• Imaginary bondage
• Trance fantasies

The live demo will be your opportunity to see how trance can be used to create wonderful sensations, fantasies, and even cause orgasm with no physical stimulation. The class and demo will be fun and informative. Who knows, you might be able to follow along and get some of the benefits immediately…

January 27th, 5pm
Positively Sex Positive: Safer Sex for People with STIs and Their Partners
with Brooklyn
For a lot of people, the diagnosis of a chronic STI (like Herpes, HIV, HPV, or Hepatitis) can be devastating. Dealing with symptoms, stigma, and guilt can be crushingly difficult, and some people feel like they’ll never have a satisfying sex or love life again. But there is hope! It’s possible to have sexually fulfilling, pleasurable relationships even if you (or your partner) have an STI. This class will cover some of the myths of STI transmission, testing, and symptoms. We’ll try to dispel stigma by discussing ways to feel better about your sexuality and love life after an STI diagnosis. And we’ll also talk about ways to become more confident about disclosing your positive STI status in a world where “I’m disease free, and you should be too” has become a common dating mantra. We’ll cover the most important times to avoid sexual contact, suggestions for preventative care, and also discuss ways to deal with potential transmissions to others. This class is open to both singles and partners of any gender or orientation. (Please note that this class is not intended to diagnose, prescribe for, treat or claim to prevent, mitigate or cure any human diseases. It is, however, intended to provide advice based on experience and information based on current research.)