Latest news with #EmilyThompson
Toronto Sun
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Toronto Sun
SEX FILES: Sharing is caring: Inside the rise of 'hothusbanding'
"Hothusbanding is a consensual relationship dynamic in which a woman — or a non-male partner — gets erotic arousal from watching or knowing her male partner is having sex with someone else," says Emily Thompson, a relationship expert at Positives Dating. Photo by stock photo / Getty Images Reviews and recommendations are unbiased and products are independently selected. Postmedia may earn an affiliate commission from purchases made through links on this page. When comedian Nikki Glaser told Gwyneth Paltrow on the Goop podcast that she gets turned on by the idea of her boyfriend sleeping with other women, it raised more than just eyebrows. For Glaser, hearing about her partner's past sexual escapades isn't cringeworthy; it's foreplay. And she's not alone. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account. Get exclusive access to the Toronto Sun ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on. Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists. Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists. Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword. SUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account. Get exclusive access to the Toronto Sun ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on. Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists. Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists. Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword. REGISTER / SIGN IN TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account. Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments. Enjoy additional articles per month. Get email updates from your favourite authors. THIS ARTICLE IS FREE TO READ REGISTER TO UNLOCK. Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments Enjoy additional articles per month Get email updates from your favourite authors Don't have an account? Create Account It's called 'hothusbanding.' A gender-flipped counterpart to hotwifing, 'Hothusbanding is a consensual relationship dynamic in which a woman — or a non-male partner — gets erotic arousal from watching or knowing her male partner is having sex with someone else,' says Emily Thompson, a relationship expert at Positives Dating. It's part of the broader world of consensual non-monogamy but with a twist: this time, the woman is sharing her man – a dynamic that is now more popular than ever. After Glaser's March 25 appearance on Goop, an adult site known for its sex-positive, ethical content made from a woman's point of view, reported a surge in member requests for hothusbanding content (an already popular category that has steadily increased since the start of 2025). Your noon-hour look at what's happening in Toronto and beyond. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. Please try again This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Angie Roundtree, founder and director of says some people see hothusbanding as another form of cuckolding, 'whereas others may see it as an extension of an open marriage.' So, what do women get out of it? Thompson says, it depends. 'Emotionally, it may increase feelings of security and sexual assurance — being aware that your partner is sought after by others but still returns to you. For some, it can shatter routine, deepen erotic intimacy, or test boundaries that contrast with the social norms of exclusivity in committed relationships.' However, hothusbanding can also be a way for women to rewrite the rules of gender and desire altogether. As Thompson explains, 'In the past, men have been accorded more sexual freedom and autonomy, with women learning to be the 'gatekeepers' of sex. Hothusbanding defies such a trend by putting the woman — whether she is spectator or conductor — in the role of one who actively encourages or delights in her partner's enjoyment with others.' This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. In popular culture, the idea of a man enjoying seeing his wife with other partners is nothing new. However, Thompson says, 'hothusbanding turns conventional male-dominant fantasy on its head and offers a less commonly seen narrative where women could find strength, pleasure, or emotional satisfaction in this role-reversal.' While hothusbanding (or hotwifing, for that matter) can certainly spice up your relationship, couples shouldn't go into it blindly. Thompson says, 'It requires an unbelievably high level of emotional and communication intelligence to map that dynamic.' For this reason, she suggests that couples begin with conversations around boundaries, expectations, and 'emotional hotspots.' These conversations must include consent and how it isn't a one-and-done deal but an ongoing process involving frequent check-ins with your partner. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. While establishing boundaries, Thompson encourages couples to get curious about what turns them on about hothusbanding. 'Is it the voyeurism? The power dynamic? The notion of the other being desirable? Building together common guidelines and a trust base guarantees everyone the sense of security and respect and, in the end, makes the experience more rewarding for all involved,' says Thompson. It's also essential to discuss who and how you'll involve other people in the dynamic. For example, are you comfortable with your partner sleeping with someone you both know or would you prefer a third person with no mutuals? Roundtree says, 'Before anyone's clothing comes off, you need to establish and agree on boundaries – not only the sexual kind, but the real parameters of what is happening here so everyone's expectations and feelings are respectfully addressed and managed.' This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Ultimately, hothusbanding is an emotional risk. For this reason, Thompson suggests couples go slow and move intentionally. It's OK to 'Start with fantasy talk, shared desire-sharing, or roleplay scenarios before moving on to actual experience,' says Thompson. Experimenting with just the two of you can be a safe way to gauge how you might feel if you were to act out these fantasies with other people. Check in with yourself. Thompson says, 'Are you engaging in it because you really want to or because you wish to impress someone else? Is your relationship strong enough to handle surprise emotions like jealousy or insecurity?' Entering into non-monogamy isn't a quick fix for relationship issues; it will probably amplify them. Even if your relationship is solid, you might need help navigating this new terrain. Thompson says it's OK to seek support. A therapist who specializes in ethical non-monogamy can help couples learn to communicate, work through fears, address jealousy, and ultimately, explore hothusbanding in a way that's safe and fun for everyone involved. 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BBC News
14-05-2025
- Politics
- BBC News
Oxfordshire parents fear bill could erode home education freedoms
Oxfordshire parents and home education campaigners have said they are deeply concerned a new government bill will erode their Children's Wellbeing and School's Bill will introduce wide-ranging changes, including a register of children in England who are not currently attending school, as well as increased powers for parents have told the BBC they believe they should be free to choose the best educational options for their Department for Education said it supported parents' right to home educate when the education was "suitable" and "in the child's best interests". The bill has cleared the House of Commons and has had its second reading in the House of would give local authorities the power to require school attendance if the home is deemed an unsafe environment. Parents would also have the automatic right to home educate their children withdrawn if their child is subject to a child protection investigation or under a child protection government said the reforms were needed to protect thousands of vulnerable children. But Emily Thompson from Bicester, who home educates all five of her children, said it felt like "the first step towards eradicating home education". "I think it will strip away the freedoms that home educators have and it will force us to conform to national curriculum standards," she said."I don't think that's of any benefit to parents or children."Aime Miles from Kingham, a campaigner with Home Education Alliance, said the bill was causing huge concern for families who believe local authorities could force their children to attend school. She told the BBC that while some families choose to home educate for philosophical reasons, many opt to do it as a last resort, after being let down by the system."There are an awful lot of families who say they feel terrified, some are crippled with anxiety over this," she said."It's becoming a very horrible situation where we distrust parents to parent. "What we should be doing is supporting them in whatever decision they've made for the benefit of their child."Ellie Pirrie from the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children said the bill should not negatively impact home educating families. "It's about upholding parents' rights to home educate but also about balancing that with the existing duties of local authorities," she said adding that for the vast majority of families "nothing should change".A Department for Education spokesperson said: "We want children to have the best life chances no matter the education setting."That's why the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill will introduce new measures to help local authorities in their role ensuring all children receive a suitable education." You can follow BBC Oxfordshire on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram.
Daily Mail
10-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Etiquette experts say if you're doing these things at a wedding, you're breaking every unspoken rule
Getting married takes a lot of planning and guests not following a list of simple, unspoken rules could test even the strongest of friendships, say a team of wedding experts. Nicola Barker, head of buying at Suit Direct has teamed up with etiquette guru Jo Hayes and dating coach Emily Thompson to unveil the list of things that wedding guests should never do. With many of us gearing up for a summer of ceremonies, receptions, and dress codes, the team have given tips on how to avoid the inevitable guest slip-ups. From showing up to the reception with an unexpected plus one to getting a little too familiar with the free bar, there are many faux pas that people often fall foul of. However, the experts say that not all wedding guest mistakes are quite so obvious on the big day. They explained that some of the worst etiquette slip-ups are surprisingly subtle but can cause major stress for the happy couple behind the scenes. Here are the most common wedding guest blunders and how to avoid them... RSVP FAIL AND WEDDING BREAKFAST ETIQUETTE Emily explained that a tardy RSVP can cause instant chaos for the wedding couple. 'Late-RSVPing is the silent killer of etiquette; it messes with everything from seating charts to catering orders. 'People don't realize how much depends on these final counts.' Another silent blunder is skipping the nuptials and only turning up for the after party. Emily said: 'It's just poor etiquette unless you've cleared it with the couple ahead. 'The ceremony is the whole point of the day-where the couple makes their vows and, usually, in front of their nearest family and friends. 'Not being there sends a clear message that you're here for the food and drinks, not for the marriage. 'I've heard couples say it genuinely hurt their feelings to look around during the vows and see empty chairs that later filled up at the reception. 'If for some reason you can't be there for the ceremony, let the couple know ahead of time, and express your regrets.' Jo added: 'To be invited to a wedding is a great honour. The couple could have invited someone else, giving another person the opportunity to witness and celebrate their vows, had they known you wouldn't show up. 'Intentionally choosing to skip this part of the occasion is disrespectful.' CAN YOU ALWAYS BRING A PLUS ONE? One of the most common wedding guest dilemmas is whether you can bring a plus-one if the invite doesn't explicitly say so. In short, if it's not written on the invitation, no plus-one is invited. Jo said: 'A firm, no. Weddings are expensive events to put on, which often means, limited guest capacity. 'Couples spend a lot of time curating their guest list to ensure they hit the right balance with regard to guest numbers and financial constraints. 'Brazenly assuming one can bring a plus-one, without that plus-one being specifically invited is disrespectful, and dare I say, supremely entitled.' Emily agreed, adding: 'Your invitation should specify in so many words, 'and guest,' or else your plus-one is strictly not allowed. 'Guests should resist misinterpreting vague RSVP cards to bring along a date on the big day and sit at a table with no setting for their date—awkward for all. 'Couples decide upon their guest lists carefully, balancing venue space with constraints imposed by budget and family politics. 'It isn't just a matter of finances but rather of space and intimacy. Erring cautiously, if there is some uncertainty, an email should suffice as a polite way of clearing up the matter; it's better always not to assume. 'Having someone not invited puts pressure on the couple and their planning team on-the-day—believe me, I have seen this cause chaos.' 'If you're unsure about whether you can bring a wedding guest, Jo explained that asking the wedding couple if it is allowed is only acceptable if you're in a long-term relationship. 'Approaching the couple about potentially bringing a plus-one would usually only be considered acceptable if it is a serious, long-term relationship (a new boyfriend of four weeks usually won't cut it)' An open bar at a wedding might feel like a golden ticket, but there's a fine line between making the most of it and monopolising it. Emily explained: 'A good rule is to limit yourself to one drink per hour and definitely don't start drinking until after the ceremony. 'Sure, pre-ceremony cocktails may seem fun, but I have witnessed too many guests slurring through readings or stumbling down the aisle-and that is the type of moment that stays with everyone for all the wrong reasons.' 'For wedding party members, you set the tone for the rest of the evening, so it's respectful to refrain from drinking until it is all clear. 'Also, keep in mind, the couple are paying for that bar-it might seem fun to you to order five shots in a row, but it is costly and somewhat impolite.' Additionally, Jo gave a stark warning to avoid getting drunk at all costs while attending a wedding. 'Too drunk? Any level of drunk is a faux pax. I don't care if some say it's "culturally appropriate" for their family circle.' If you want an etiquette expert's perspective, the general etiquette rule is: 'No intoxication.' 'Sure, enjoy a couple of drinks. But be respectful and responsible. Avoid getting drunk. 'As a general rule, I would discourage people from drinking before the ceremony. A small champagne, or a light beer, as they're getting ready, may be ok. But I generally suggest people err on the side of caution.' WHAT YOU SHOULD AND DEFINITELY SHOULDN'T WEAR When it comes to what to wear, the line between stylish and inappropriate can be surprisingly easy to cross. Jo explained: 'Really, the only 'rule' is for women, who should avoid wearing all-white. 'Anything that looks too close to what the bride will be wearing is a no-go. This also includes very light shades of cream or very pale pastels. 'A woman appearing in long, all-white (or, very pale) gown is erring far too close to the bride's outfit and could potentially be trying to steal the spotlight.' Emily added: 'Another controversial colour is red; Western cultures consider red blatantly conspicuous and would even think it inappropriate if it dressed too 'sexily' for a formal wedding. 'Black is still another colour that presents a challenge. Contemporary weddings may tolerate its use, but the previous generations will link it symbolically with mourning.' Nicola said: 'The golden rule is simple – dress for the occasion the couple planned. 'That means following the dress code on the invite, whether it's black tie or cocktail – and never assume 'casual' men's jeans and a pair of trainers. 'Even at a laid-back venue, it's still a special event, so I'd always advise to dress slightly up rather than down.' WHAT TO WEAR: THE DOs Incorporate Colour Thoughtfully Before reaching out for a bold floral or a standout shade, take a second to check the couples overall colour scheme. While you're not expected to blend in, it's thoughtful to avoid matching the bridesmaids or groomsmen. Choose complementary tones that don't draw too much focus. Ensure Proper Fit Re-wear older items only after confirming they still fit well. Try it on well before the big day. Bodies change and so do tailoring standards. If it doesn't fit quite right, make sure to get alterations booked in. Pack Essentials Even the most carefully chosen outfit can run into last-minute mishaps. A mini sewing kit, lint roller, and a couple of safety pins can save the day — and someone else's, too. WHAT TO WEAR: THE DON'TS Avoid Last-Minute Packing Hang your outfit as soon as possible and use a fabric steamer to eliminate creases. Skip Floral Boutonnieres While it might seem like a sweet detail, floral accessories like boutonnieres are traditionally reserved for the wedding party. Opt for a stylish lapel pin or pocket square instead — it's a great way to show personality without stepping on the groom's toes· Reserve Special Looks for the Groom Unless the invitation specifically calls for it, steer clear of white dinner jackets, statement tuxedos, or anything that might read as 'main character energy.' These standout styles are typically reserved for the groom and his groomsmen.
Yahoo
05-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Trump wants states to take over control of National Park system as he proposed $1 billion cut to its budget
The Trump administration wants states to take over the management of America's national parks – something never before proposed by a U.S. president. In its budget request for the fiscal year 2026, which is also proposing billions in crippling cuts to space, health, education, and other areas, the White House argued that the The National Park Service's responsibilities 'include a large number of sites that are not 'national parks,' in the traditionally understood sense, many of which receive small numbers of mostly local visitors, and are better categorized and managed as state-level parks.' 'The budget would continue supporting many national treasures, but there is an urgent need to streamline staffing and transfer certain properties to state-level management to ensure the long-term health and sustainment of the national park system,' the request said, also pointing out that many grants are already supported by state, local, and private efforts. There are more than 430 national parks that span across 85 million acres, including every U.S. state and territory. It is unclear what handing over park sites to states would really look like or which parks are deemed not to be national parks 'in the traditionally understood sense,' but there are hurdles in the way of implementing such changes successfully. For one, some of the country's most beloved parks span multiple states, which could complicate funding approvals and management. Yellowstone National Park extends into Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. Great Smoky Mountains National Park – the most visited national park in the U.S. – is located in North Carolina and Tennessee. Death Valley National Park is in California and Nevada. The NPS is also apolitical, so passing power to state officials could throw a wrench in critical and previously bipartisan work to protect the parks and the ecosystems they support. Furthermore, there's the question of money. Democratic California is home to nine national parks, the most of any state in the U.S. But, even its state parks took economic hits this year. Republican-led Montana, which has the most state parks, also has the smallest budget, when compared to its peer states in the Northern Rocky Mountains region. 'Many states don't have the resources to maintain these parks and the federal government walking away from their responsibility would result in closed parks, safety risks, trails that are not maintained, and far fewer park rangers,' Emily Thompson, executive director of the Coalition to Protect America's National Parks, said in a statement. 'This will be disastrous for not just visitors and resources, but local economies who depend on park tourism as economic drivers.' Notably, the budget proposal also comes amid a push to privatize public lands, and fears about opening national parks and other habitat for the Trump's administration's plans to revive greenhouse gas-producing energy. The Environmental Protection Agency just announced its plans to expand a uranium mine in Wyoming and the Interior Department has taken steps increase hunting access on public lands, to fast-track mining in multiple states, transfer federal lands to the Army, and increase oil and gas reserves in the Gulf of Mexico. New efforts announced by NOAA to mine seabed minerals would violate international law, according to China. But, there's even more that the Park Service needs to worry about. The administration's plans came alongside a proposal for the largest budget cuts in the National Park Service's 109-year-old history, announcing it could slash more than $1 billion. This year has already seen a 6 percent cut. Parks and conservation non-profits say the impact of those cuts would be devastating for national parks, which were already underfunded and short-staffed before the Department of Government Efficiency's efforts to layoff crucial staff members. 'We do so much work protecting the place, and that's the sort of stuff that is just going to get dropped,' Alex Wild, a fired park ranger, told The Independent earlier this year. Some workers have been reinstated follow recent court orders, but employees have since been asked to help determine whether they should be fired, according to SFGate. Whatever happens with the states, staff and budget losses are 'nothing less than an all-out assault on America's national parks' following a record-breaking year for visitorship, according to National Parks Conservation Association CEO Theresa Pierno. With a major workforce reduction 'looming' on the horizon, she predicted that 'the worst is yet to come.' 'The Park Service is our nation's greatest protectors and storytellers. And our more than 430 national parks are our nation's greatest legacy. Any effort to hand many of these sites over to the states is a betrayal, and the American people won't stand for it.' she said.
Zawya
26-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Best's Market Segment Report: AM Best maintains its stable outlook for the insurance markets of the GCC
LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE/AETOSWire)-- AM Best is maintaining its outlook for the insurance markets of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) at stable. In its new Best's Market Segment Report, 'Market Segment Outlook: Gulf Cooperation Council Insurance,' AM Best notes current economic conditions remain resilient to regional geopolitical tensions; albeit should there be an escalation, the GCC could be adversely impacted by second order effects. At the same time, opportunities for insurance sector growth remain plentiful as new products and increased insurable risks remain an important feature of the market. Moderating factors identified by AM Best's analysts include the highly saturated nature of the GCC markets, with intense competition driving pricing pressure and threatening technical margins. Furthermore, elevated oil price fluctuation brings potential economic uncertainty, particularly for those GCC countries with higher dependence on the hydrocarbon sector, as well as those with higher breakeven oil prices. To access a complimentary copy of this special report, please visit AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specialising in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit Copyright © 2025 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. View source version on *Source: AETOSWire Contacts Emily Thompson Senior Financial Analyst Jessica Botelho-Young, CA Director, Analytics Richard Banks Director, Industry Research – EMEA Edem Kuenyehia Director, Market Development & Communications
