Power exchange relationships can be difficult to sustain over time. It takes a lot of ongoing work to keep such relationships fresh and it’s easy to slip back into more common archetypes (“husband/wife” or “boyfriend/girlfriend). This workshop covers such topics as: initial reasons why a power exchange relationship can get into trouble; ego and insecurity in relationships; structural reasons for difficulties; exploring fear and anxiety among slaves and submissives; inability of one partner to be what the other wished for; and an exploration of positive characteristics one might look for in a partner.

Presenter:  Robert J. (Dr. Bob) Rubel

Robert Rubel is an educational sociologist and researcher by training. He has ten books currently in print (four on Master/slave topics, two on advanced sex techniques, one on fire play, and three erotic art photo books). Recipient of the 2008 Pantheon of Leather’s Community Choice Award, Robert (Bob) Rubel has been involved in the BDSM scene since the summer of 2001, throwing himself into the literature of the field as though it were an academic study. He frequently attends weekend Leather conferences. Dr. Bob is the Series Editor of Power Exchange Books’ Resource Series (the successor to Power Exchange Magazine). This is a series of books that are collections of highly focused essays that cover a wide range of special topics within the larger field of BDSM. He presents, judges, and sells his books widely throughout the year.