Education
Education is one of the highlights of the weekend at Northwest Leather Celebration. We offer 90-minute class sessions Saturday and Sunday in four educational tracks: Relationships, BDSM, Bootblacking and Community Development. In addition, we offer longer “spotlight” sessions on Friday:
Spotlight on Bootblacking - Daisy Blue, AJ, Creature, Pup Rowdy
Spotlight on Samurai Arts for The Dungeon: Restraint, Pain, Misery - Tomo
Spotlight on Relationship Foundations: Creating the Structure of Your Dynamic - Master David & Brynn
There is no additional charge to attend any of the Spotlight sessions, and you need not attend all of the four sessions in each Spotlight.
Class Information & Presenter Bios
AJ
-
AJ has been active in the Leather and Kink community since 2014, focusing on Bootblacking in Central Florida. Inspired by a poolside scene at a summer event, he pursued his passion, earning Florida Community Bootblack titles in 2016 and 2019, and International Community Bootblack in 2019. A dedicated volunteer, AJ supports numerous events across the Southeast and beyond, from stands to helping titleholders, always driven by his passion for learning, teaching, and contributing to the community he cherishes.
-
Spotlight on Bootblacking
Session 2 – Bootblack Coordination: From Chaos to Seamless SuccessYou’re ready to dive in. But how do you organize a room full of eager Bootblacks, create accessible schedules, and keep the energy flowing? This class is packed with tips, tricks, and insider secrets to make coordinating fun, efficient, and less stressful. Learn how to create a seamless, enjoyable experience for everyone—ensuring your Bootblacks and your room shines!
Bootblack Paradox
-
Paradox became a member of the Leather Uniform Club of Las Vegas in 2014 and has been involved with the Las Vegas Leather community since then as a member in one form or another. Once she smelled that first can of Huberd’s and popped a can of polish she dove into the wonderful world of Bootblacking. She is honored to be Southern Nevada Bootblack 2017-18. Her willingness to learn and teach have aided and inspired the growth of others
-
Frankenpatch ™️ and Repairs 101
A demonstration class on using and working with Frankenpatch ™️, the tools and techniques that make the best use of this beloved product developed originally by Elegant, that has a very tricky learning curve to it. Leather dust, patches and more will also be covered.
brynn & Bri Burning
-
brynn, International slave 2019, is the slave of Master David Mack. brynn identifies as a bisexual, femme, leather girl, little, and bootblack. She is a founder of House of Dark Shadows and has been presenting since 2017.
Bri Burning is a queer, femme, Indigenous Mexican, Leather little, and owned s-type. She proudly served as IPOL 2020-23 and NWPOL 2019. Active in the SF Bay Area community since 2010, Bri has been presenting since 2015. -
When M/s and Age Play Come Together
This class explores how Age Play and M/s dynamics can coexist, breaking down tropes and emphasizing that there’s no “one true way” to practice them. We’ll cover ethical considerations, informed consent, and building trust tailored to the unique needs of all involved. By addressing stigma, this class empowers participants to integrate these roles harmoniously in a way that feels authentic and supportive. Bring a stuffy and blanket, and come join us!
Buck
-
Your Friendly Neighbourhood Bootblack and Mr. Palm Springs Leather 2025! Buck is an accomplished bootblack and kink educator, with over 15 years of experience in the scene, and 14 years as a bootblack. He has been teaching bootblacking and leather care on TikTok since April 2022, and has taught kink and play classes for events and clubs such as Wicked in the West, Palm Springs Leather Order of the Desert, and GearUp Weekend. A versatile switch, Buck finds enjoyment in prioritizing connected experiences when engaging in play regardless of the position and role he finds himself in.
-
BDSM: the B stands for Bootblacking
Bootblacking can be so much more than shiny boots! In this discussion-style class, we'll discuss the versatile nature of bootblacking, and how it can be used in conjunction with almost any other form of play with the right creativity and mindset.
Creature
-
Creature is a neurodivergent, chronically ill & disabled, genderqueer Leather Dyke, Creature uses they/them/fae/faer pronouns. They are the Northwest Bootblack 2024, Western Canada Bootblack 2023, and fae volunteers in a few different roles for various local and international events. Their love for boots and leather care has been a core part of their kink since early on in their kink life and they are incredibly passionate about sharing that love and knowledge.
-
Spotlight on Bootblacking
Session 3 – "Standing" for AccessibilityWhether or not you’ve been bootblacking for years, or have been curiously watching from the sidelines, Accessibility in Bootblacking will equip you with the tools to find success no matter your limitations. This class strives to address common (and not so common) accessibility issues that you may run into as the Bootblack, or as the person who is sitting in their stand.
Daisy Blue
-
Daisy Blue (They/Them) is a seasoned Bootblack and Leatherperson dedicated to sharing the art and tradition of bootblacking and Leather culture through community care, education, and mentorship. With over eight years of experience across the U.S., Daisy’s most treasured experiences are stories and history shared during their work at the chair. Outside of bootblacking, they love art, hockey smut, and a cold Dr. Pepper.
-
Spotlight on Bootblacking
Session 1 – No Patience for PatinaPatina transforms leather over time, but why wait? In this class, discover how polish, dye, and/or paint can create stunning effects, from subtle aging to bold, artistic designs. Learn to enrich and personalize your leather goods with unique colors, textures, and layers, giving each piece a distinctive character and story to share.
DX Victoria Xy
-
Dominex Victoria Xy is the Leather privateer, you’re trans muscle fem Dominex and NW Person of Leather 2023! For over a decade, they have participated in non-monogamy, kink, leather, and LGBTIAQ+ communities. Having pursued a degree in Public Health Education with a minor in gender, sexuality, and Queer Studies from OHSU, Victoria runs their own company doing life coaching and education, specializing in relationships, sexual health, kink, queer, and DEI; as well as corporate consulting.
-
What does that mean?! Labels, Identities, Terms, and Concepts
We have many terms in sex-positive and alternative communities, with seemingly more and more coming out everyday. Let’s take a moment to explore some of these labels, terms, and concepts people use and how they are experienced by different people. Whether you’re trying to learn, curious/exploring, or from “a different generation” we can support ourselves and the community by creating understanding of the various expressions we have in this day in age.
Eitra
-
Eitra is a polyamorous, neurodivergent, demisexual domme-leaning switch and Leatherperson with a passion for learning and sharing knowledge. A member of the kink community for over a decade and active in the Leather community for over 6 years, she enjoys Tea Service, cooking, erotic audio, giving genital torture, and having deep and nuanced conversations.
-
Ethical Financial Domination: Basics and Budgets to Get the Most Bang for Your Buck
Curious about Financial Domination, but not sure where to start or how to do it in a Risk-Aware way? In this class we will explain the basics of Financial Domination as a Power Exchange dynamic, how FinDom can even be incorporated into other forms of Power Exchange, and general guidelines to explore Findom in an ethical way. In addition, we will discuss budgeting basics and low-cost ways to explore this intriguing and divisive kink.
Hexxx
-
Hexxx (She/They) is an eleventeen foot tall, (allegedly) sassy, Leatherwoman whose greatest interests include torturing others who ask for it and whose kinks are education and Leather History; especially Black Leather History. She is also an award winning public speaker. Hexxx has been an active community service member in the Reno area for a little over 8 years. She founded KinkEdNV, an education facilitation group in Northern Nevada in 2019.
-
Speak Freely: Navigating The Art of Effective Communication in Leather Conversation
The #1 fear that people have is not my Fisting 301 Class. It’s public speaking! If you find it challenging to start or carry a conversation with someone because you just don’t know what to say, this course is for you! We will discuss communication styles, icebreakers and tips on how to hold a conversation without feeling awkward, or at least less awkward at munches, cons, and other kink, BDSM, and Leather events.
Laurie
-
Laurie Aguinaga (She/Her) identifies as a butch Chicana leather dyke. In the 30 years she has been in the leather community, Laurie has been a slave, submissive and Sir. Laurie was a two time leather titleholder as Ms Santa Clara County Leather 1999 and Ms Alameda County Leather 2007. Currently, Laurie is a phlebotomist in San Jose, caring for her elderly mother, attending events and play parties whenever she can. She especially enjoys being a piggy pin cushion.
-
Leather prior to social media
The leather community in the 2000’s. A brief look at the the leather community during Web 1.0 prior to social media.
Liza and her slave, Jody
-
Master and slave for nearly 23 years, Liza and her slave, Jody, (International Master/slave 2011/21) produce events, judge, keynote, and teach extensively, nationally and abroad on hierarchical relationships and BDSM topics (receiving MAsT International's "Presenter of the Year" in 2012). Liza came to power at Woodstock. Jody came into leather in 1980, founding Leather and Lace, an early women's leather group. They’re members of Bad Girls, Exiles and Long Term Hierarchical Relationships support group.
-
Put On Your Oxygen Mask First!
We all know, when there is a problem, the flight attendant instructs us to put our oxygen mask before helping others. In this guided discussion we will discuss the challenges of caring for others and how to take care of ourselves. The information we will cover applies to those on both sides of the slash.
******
Gladiator Games, Whip Fighting and Other Games of Skill
Come have fun with us! Test your skill in friendly whip fighting and games of skill with a variety of stingy items. We'll offer: Gladiator Games (sparring where singletail-wielding opponents square off); "Rebenque" (a close form of whip combat using floggers, quirts, canes or crops); and targeting games where accuracy matters! Able-bodied or differently-abled, competitor or spectator, all are welcome! Highest point-getter and best sport each get a medal. Or, you could be a judge.
Mara Miske
-
Mara is a genderqueer, Leather Slave, and sadomasochist who has been part of the community for over 35 years. They are currently serving their community as your International Person of Leather 2024. Mara strives to be a kind and loving bulldozer, nudging our community towards living up to the Leather community values of inclusivity, service and integrity, while pushing aside outdated norms that stand in the way of growth.
-
Mind Reading & Anticipatory Service
Anticipatory Service isn’t some mystical art, it is a skill like any other that can be learned with practice. Expect some tips and tricks on how to use all 5 senses to make anticipatory service look like magic and how to harness neurospicy superpowers to make this easier not harder! We will also delve into pattern recognition to help hone these skills and touch on how a "butler" book can keep track of it all.
Marianne Faulkner
-
Marianne Faulkner (she/her/any) is an internationally recognized corsetiere, known in the lingerie community for her writing, design work, and presence as a founding fellow for the Oxford Conference of Corsetry. Marianne has worked at Dark Garden since 2008 and was mentored in the craft by founder Autumn Adamme, known worldwide as the Godmother of Modern Corsetry. Marianne’s passion is corsetry as a means through which one can explore and express identity in many forms.
-
Corsets 101: Safe Lacing for Pleasure & Restraint
For all corset lovers and the corset curious, we present our comprehensive primer, featuring: the ins & outs of lacing yourself or another into a corset, how to tell if a corset fits, shopping for quality, basics of waist training and tightlacing, and best practices for safety and comfort.
Marilyn & Rio
-
Marilyn and Rio are Northwest Master and slave 2023. Marilyn is a sadist with an intense blood lust and Rio is a service-oriented butch leatherdyke. Marilyn and Rio have judged, emceed, and tallied at numerous contests, and have presented at NWLC, SELF, SWLC, IMsLBB, LLC, the Exiles, and more. Their home club is the Exiles SF, where they spent many years as officers. They are active in MAsT SF, where Marilyn is the Director.
-
Tying the Knot: the intersection of Marriage and M/s
Some say there shouldn’t be love between a Master and a slave, or that marriage will ruin the power dynamic. In this class we’ll discuss common fears and how to address them, and how our marriage affected our M/s dynamic, for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health. Please bring your stories and experiences!
Master Bren &
slave Sky
-
Master Bren and slave Sky have been in a Master/slave dynamic since 2019, drawing strength from Bren's Latinx background and their identities as trans individuals. Their relationship is built on trust and communication, promoting personal growth. They engage in community outreach to empower others and foster inclusivity. Living in Northern California, they are honored to serve as the Northwest Master/slave 2024 and host a regional gathering called Leather Church- NorCal.
-
Pull the Leather Kronk! Wrong Leather!
Join us for a lighthearted conversation on "Leather Expectations vs. Leather Reality." Explore the surprising journey of our path in the leather community and the unexpected twists we encountered. Through shared experiences and laughter, discover the humor in the differences between expectations and reality. Come ready to connect, reflect, and embrace the delightful surprises of living a leather lifestyle.
Master Dart
-
Master Dart is an international kink presenter from Virginia Beach with more than 33 years experience as a leatherman. He sees himself as "proudly New Guard" because he feels that what is most important is not what happened in the past but what is happening NOW, and that our sexual self-expression should not be hindered by rigid or judgmental 'rules' from our past. He has presented in Canada, the UK, Nederlands, Ireland, Hungary, Italy, Croatia and Serbia, as well as countless cities in the US.
-
Bondage Bullfighting
Bondage is more than simply memorizing a bunch of pretty knots. It's an exchange of power and energy...a kind of "dance" that takes both parties on a journey to a common goal and "catharsis". It is not unlike what a matador does during a bullfight. Let’s take a step back and re-examine the actual power exchange with the rope, and how we can create an amazingly erotic bondage experience, even with only knowing one type of knot. This class is hands-on so please bring rope if you have it, and be prepared to do a little moving.
Master David & brynn
-
Master David and brynn are an authority transfer-based Master/slave couple. Master David is curator of the Bar Card Project and the SW Regional Rep for MAsT: International. brynn serves as secretary of San Joaquin girls of Leather. Together they are founding members of House of Dark Shadows and produced FLAME Conference. They are honored to be the 2019 International Master and slave.
-
Spotlight on Relationship Foundations: Creating the Structure of Your Dynamic
Many times, we start a power exchange relationship and have no idea how to talk about what we need, what our priorities are, or where our relationship is going. Over the course of four sessions, Master David and brynn will take you through a series of discussions and exercises to help you prepare for and create the foundation of a successful power exchange dynamic.
Our hope is that at the end of these sessions you will walk away with tools and tricks to move your relationship forward on a solid foundation.
Master David &
Sir DaddyDaun
-
Master David is a leatherman, sadist, mentor, and educator. He is the founder of the Bar Card Project. Along with His slave, brynn, he is the co-owner and producer of FLAME Conference. He is founding co-head of House of Dark Shadows. He is proud to be 2019/2021 International Master.
Sir DaddyDaun began Her leather journey in the early 90’s. She has served Her communities as presenter, Den Daddy, panelist, mentor, tally Master, stage manager, volunteer, judge, keynote speaker, board member, titleholder and Prince XXXVIII of the Imperial Sovereign Rose Court.
-
Fostering Surrender: Mastering a non-submissive slave
Join Master David and Sir DaddyDaun as they share how they work with a slave who is a leader, often in both the vanilla AND lifestyle world. They will dive into what worked for them (and what didn’t) and give you tips and tricks for putting their natural skills and tendencies to use. The goal is for you to leave with ideas on how to work with their skills, instead of against them, and to support your slave as they find themselves through their surrender.
Master Retro Bella &
slave boydrake
-
Master Retro Bella (She/Her) and her slave boy drake (he/him) have escaped Bakersfield, ca and now reside in Wuzzie Acres. Both served as your 2024 International Master and slave and your 2023 Southwest Master and slave. Master Retro Bella, a Latina, Master, and Leather Woman, and her slave boydrake, a transman, slave, and Leather boy, have been dedicated to raising awareness and acceptance of neurodivergent pairings, Latinx and Transgender issues within the community.
-
The Art of Masking: Strategies for Authenticity in Public Spaces
Join us as we explore the complex relationship between authenticity and M/s dynamics, specifically for neurodivergent individuals. In this class, Masters and slaves will examine masking and its impact on self-expression in public. Through shared experiences and group discussions, you'll develop actionable strategies to navigate events while staying true to yourselves. Participants will create personalized action plans to embrace their identities confidently,
Master Richard
-
Richard Sprott received his Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology from UC Berkeley in 1994. He is currently directing research projects focused on identity development and health/well-being in people who express alternative sexualities, with a special emphasis on kink/BDSM sexuality, and polyamory or consensual non-monogamy. He is also the co-author of Sexual Outsiders: Understanding BDSM Sexualities and Communities (Rowman & Littlefield, 2013). Richard currently teaches courses in the Department of Human Development and Women's Studies at California State University, East Bay.
-
Using BDSM To Address Healing and Personal Growth: A Scientific Report from The Kink And Flourishing Project
The Kink and Flourishing Study investigates experiences of healing and personal growth because of BDSM and power exchange. The study asked over 587 kinksters about their experiences and how those experiences affected them. In this workshop Dr. Sprott will present the research findings, and discuss practical applications to play and relationships with kinky partners.
Master SirTee &
little kitsune
-
Master SirTee and little kitsune live in a 24/7 M/s dynamic and are honoured to be the 2025 International Master and slave titleholders. They began their dynamic over 30 years ago, independent of any community and resources, overcoming challenges through grit and commitment to their dynamic. They strongly believe in education and community building, and support this by presenting internationally across Canada and the U.S. both in-person and online (Leather Reign, MsC, KinkFest, MsC Worldwide, SOC, Wicked in the West, and Pandemonium in the Prairies).
-
Imposter Syndrome
Whether new or experienced, imposter syndrome can, at times, undermine our beliefs, sense of self, attitudes, and personal confidence (in our abilities, skills, knowledge, etc.). This class is a deep dive into the subversive internal voice of self-doubt and explores how, when left unchecked, it can create real challenges to our identities and relationships - especially when we bring it into our dynamics. Join us as we explore imposter syndrome - from both sides of the slash; we will review strategies for recognizing it, potential sources, the impact on the self and the dynamic, and approaches to address imposter syndrome.
Ms Rhonda, Bri Burning
& Moxie Minion
-
With five (5) titles between them - Northwest Master 2015, International Master 2016/2021, Northwest Bootblack 2018, Northwest Person of Leather 2019, and International Person of Leather 2020-2023 - Ms Rhonda, Moxie and Bri know a little something about competing for and holding titles. Add to that Ms Rhonda’s experience producing contests in multiple title systems and Moxie’s experience coordinating the Northwest Bootblack Contest, and they have plenty to share in this class only available at NWLC
-
Yes, YOU Can Be a Titleholder!
Curious about becoming a titleholder? We will tell you everything you need to know. From the responsibilities, to your application, to the details of contests, Ms Rhonda, Moxie Minion, and Bri Burning will break it down into simple, understandable steps. There will also be plenty of time to answer your questions. If you’d like to represent the Northwest region and compete in our Master slave, Bootblack, or Person of Leather Contest, join us for this class!
MzB_Having
-
MzB_Having started Her Leather and BDSM journey in 2009. She and her partner, precious, have maintained a D/s relationship since 2010. With some background in medical, Her experiences and play are seasoned with creativity, respect, playfulness, and safety. Diverse life and kink experiences from Reno/Tahoe-Nevada, the greater SF Bay Area, and the Northern California regions has resulted in well-rounded interests, advanced skills, unique perspectives, and creative, unconventional scenes!
-
Physiology of Pain and Pleasure - Understanding A Play Partner's Physical Responses
Ever wonder why one day a sensation is enjoyable, another day it's annoying, or even hurts? The human body is comprised of over 7 trillion nerves. Presenting basic understanding of anatomy and the physiological connection of body and mind, illness and injury, pain and pleasure.
Nocturnal
-
Nocturnal began His kink journey publicly in 2000 in the Bay Area and Sacramento. Nocturnal has delved in a wide variety of roles on both sides of the slash and has taken numerous classes during the last two decades. He has also taught a variety of classes on Impact Implements, Singletail Whips, D/s and M/s relationship topics, and classes on safety and consent. Nocturnal continues to be active mostly in the Sacramento area.
-
From Play Partner To Slave; Steps To Form Your Dynamic
Have you ever rushed into a relationship, only to have it fail in a few weeks or months? Nocturnal will share his experience with relationship pitfalls that can lead to disaster, and also share steps for someone to take to better the odds that the dynamic will last. This will include self discovery techniques for your needs and wants, steps to follow to ensure compatibility with a potential partner, and more.
Pup Rowdy
-
Pup Rowdy (he/him) has been a vibrant force in the San Diego Leather Community since 2011. Rowdy embodies the spirit of a Leather Pup, Bootblack & Daddy by being loyal, hardworking, playful & affectionate. He Co-founded San Diego Pets & Handlers in 2014 to create a safe space for folks of all genders and orientations to explore petplay. Rowdy proudly holds the title of San Diego Bootblack 2019+ and is an active mentor to local aspiring bootblacks
-
Spotlight on Bootblacking
Session 4 – Getting Hi (Shines) the Rowdy way!Join San Diego Bootblack 2019 for a crash course in bringing your shine to life on even the most stubborn boot. The class will cover the process of a high shine, best practices for different styles of boots and how the different types of polish can affect your hi-shine.
Pup Star Orion
-
Pup Star Orion is a trans genderfluid (he/his) leather person. Identifying as a leather boy in training, collared bull terrier pup, sub leaning switch (the switch is silent), community service dog, alpha / mentor to his beta pup, and pup in a cub body. He held the title of LA Pup in 2020-21 where he pushed for more than inclusion, but the recognition of pet players on the margin. This self described goodest boy can usually be found sneaking treats, getting stomped on, or trying to take a queer cutie’s fist!
-
Unleashing Your Identity: Exploring Intersectionality in Animal Roleplay
In “Unleashing Identity” we invite you to an eye-opening, freeform exploration of the profound ways that your identity, experiences, and background shape and enrich your animal headspace. This class will talk about race, gender, and disability so please come ready to explore how they have affected your experiences and the experiences of others. This goes beyond the surface of pet play; get ready to unleash and embrace your unique animal headspace.
Shalimar
-
Shalimar is a Leather boy, service pupper, bootblack, and service leader who has been involved in the kink community for the last nine years. They are a lifelong student who strives towards building aware communities that address ethics, equity, and safety. Their goal as a bootblack is to create safer spaces focused on intentional connection and immaculate leather care.
-
Holding Space in the Stand
The bootblack stand can be a space buzzing with excitement and energy for most bootblacks. Other times, folks will walk into a stand with heavy emotions or vulnerable stories about themselves or their leather. Have you felt lost in those moments, or terrified that this will happen to you and you’ll freeze? This class will help address those moments, how to hold space, and how to care for yourself during and after those moments.
Shedao
-
Shedao (He/they) is a 10-year veteran of the kink and leather scene, identifying as a Pan, Polyam, Switch. Shedao founded Sacramento Black Kinkster to create a space for Black folx. They have extensive experience in DMing (both kink and DnD), volunteering, bootblacking, and learning new things. He has a passion for making sure everyone is welcomed, their needs are met, and voices are heard. They are passionate about creating and supporting inclusive, empowered, and educational spaces.
-
Beyond Bootblacking: Building a Bootblack scene
A hands-on class for those familiar with leather care and bootblacking, put those skills to sexy use! In this class we will talk about what types of scenes can be made, how to incorporate other play into the scene, and any safety considerations surrounding leather care and play. Will include a short demo and time to practice what you learned. Bring your boot blacking kit and a partner with shine-able wearables.
Sir Andrew
-
Sir Andrew is a born and raised southern gentleman, hailing from SC and NC. He is proud to be the current 2024 Mr SouthEast LeatherFest. His lifestyle interests lean towards spanking and anything sharp and pointy. He enjoys sharing his journey through gender and leather with others and to hear their stories as well. You can usually find Andrew in the smoking area of whatever event he's at. Please come say hi!
-
Poly Primer
There are so many misunderstandings out there about the poly community. In this class we will be discussing the terms and definitions commonly used among poly people. We will also discuss a variety of relationship styles and communication techniques. We will also tackle the infamous jealousy vs envy conundrum.
Sir Rook
-
Sir Rook (they/them) is a queer trans butch, a leather dominant & daddy, and an award-winning writer. They have been in the kink communities since 1999, and orchestrate transformative kink scenes through writing, spoken word, and ritual practice. Sir Rook has presented and performed 200+ times at 75+ venues, including International Ms. Leather/Bootblack, Dark Odyssey, SXSW, Harvard, and Oz Kink Fest, and are proud to have served as Northwest Master 2019 and International Master 2020.
-
Writing Spicy: Erotica Writing Workshop
Come join Sinclair Sexsmith, award winning kinky queer butch erotica writer, for some of the basics of writing erotica. We'll talk about questions like, How do you make sure it's hot? and What if I want to get published? We'll do some writing prompts, and folks will be invited to share their work (optional!) and offer positive feedback. Bring a notebook and a pen, or something equivalent.
SpankCake & J_Sir
-
J_Sir (He/Him) is a lifestyle Dominant and Leather Daddy. Active in the kink community since 2000, he has presented on various topics including whips, fire, and scene dynamics.
SpankCake (she/her) is a submissive Leather babygirl and is International Ms. Bootblack 2024 and aims to inspire people to embrace their true selves within the BDSM community and beyond. The two are based in the Los Angeles area and are in a D/s relationship.
-
Shifting Gears: Navigating a D/s relationship through life’s challenging highway
What happens when D/s sometimes looks like s/D? In this class, we will explore how our authority based relationships are affected by ever changing life events, and how we can preserve our D/s dynamics through these transitions.
Join us as J_Sir and SpankCake share effective strategies they used during SpankCake's title year. Whether health, work, or any one of life’s surprises comes your way, your dynamic doesn’t have to be road kill!
Stephan & SweetWisteria
-
Stephan and SweetWisteria have been in an M/s service-based dynamic for almost 10 years exploring what power and authority exchange mean to them. They live in a poly household with six adults, one cat, and two dogs adding to the complexity of their M/s and service. They enjoy educating on subjects around the M/s dynamic, service, and formal dining. They are the griots of the Boston Annex of the Carter Johnson Library.
-
The Dog Has More Rights Than Me
Long term 24/7 relationships take on interesting twists and turns. In this conversation we will discuss what a long term relationship with total power exchange can look like. What are pitfalls and how to avoid them. And we will explore when a submissive or slave has given up so much power that even the none humans in a house has more rights and responsibilities.
The Goddess
-
The Goddess began her journey into WIITWD in the mid 80’s when she trained her first slave. Four decades later, she is an author, international educator, and covered Master with a quirky and wicked sense of humor. A proud member of the oldest BIPOC Matriarchal Leather family, she inspires through teachings on sustainable authority-imbalanced dynamics and navigating female-led relationships with her rocket fuel, her three exceptional and devoted slaves.
-
Scorch the Earth & Salt the Land: Communication Tools for the Incendiary and the Rest of Us
Living an Authority Transfer Dynamics can involve unusual challenges on how to communicate when the discussion develops an emotional charge. Is it possible to have clear communication where all parties feel heard and recognized when authority imbalance is involved? Should one “step out of the dynamic” in order to fully express themselves? Join Goddess as we discuss multiple communication, de-escalation and repair techniques that are useful in creating a safe and effective space for resolving difficult situations.
Tomo
-
Tomo (He/They) is a gender queer butch leatherdyke who has spent decades in both the Martial Arts and Leather communities. Tomo has been immersed in Japanese Martial Arts culture for two third’s of his life and actively lives the code of Bushido translated as warrior way. He practices and teaches three Martial Arts: Traditional Japanese Jujutsu, Iaido the art of Japanese Sword, and Hojojutsu the art of tying a non-compliant prisoner with rope. Tomo often brings physical techniques from the Martial Arts to the Leather and Kink community which are modified for safety for dungeon play. He also shares martial concepts applied to life in classes such as conflict resolution, staying grounded and centered, and living with joy, fulfillment and peace.
-
Spotlight on Samurai Arts for The Dungeon: Restraint, Pain, Misery
During this hands-on Skills Spotlight, Tomo will present Japanese martial arts techniques modified to create safer yet rough play. The intensive will be broken into four 90-minute sessions, each building on each other. It is recommended to attend all four sessions but not required. During the classes, everyone will have the opportunity to practice, yet physical participation is not required. Join in as you are able. Come alone or with a partner. Please bring your own rope if possible, however the instructor will have rope to lend.
Zane Rose
-
Zane Rose is a queer transgender Leather merman and scuba diver living in the San Francisco Bay Area. He first found his place within Leather and kink when he attended the Folsom Street Fair in 2007, and never looked back. In his previous form, he was Ms San Francisco Leather 2017. He is passionate about LGBTQ+ education and advocacy, mental health awareness, and aquatic oddball critter appreciation.
-
Dot Journaling: Manage your Schedule and Save Your Relationships*
Dot journals are a DIY tool for managing busy schedules, tracking habits, and planning for the future (and more)! Think of a cross between a calendar, a diary, and a vision board that you design yourself. No art skills needed. In this class, learn how to set up and maintain a dot journal that works for you and your relationship dynamic. If executive dysfunction is a challenge in your life, this technique may help.