Authority Transfer Beyond the Dungeon: AuDHD, Role Integration, and the Everyday Life of a Ma’am in the Wild. - Lady Morningside

This talk explores authority transfer from the lived perspective of an AuDHD FemDom/Ma’am whose dynamic does not begin and end at the dungeon door. We’ll look at how authority-transfer can be integrated into daily life, social settings, vanilla environments, and roleplay-informed relational structure without turning the whole world into a scene.

The focus is about how authority is carried, translated, softened, paused, coded, and resumed when neurodivergence, social context, masking, sensory load, and relational attunement are all in the room.

Friday 9:00 A.M. Classroom: #1

Redefining Leadership to Inspire Change - Mister Ladybug

Class Description: Join me as we explore leadership in service. Starting with an overview of the different leadership styles, we will then take a deep dive into Servant Leadership. You will be introduced to the building blocks of this style and the practice of "Serving First". You will gain more insight on what Servant Leadership is, how it promotes growth, encourages community engagement, enhances ideas, and inspires the leaders in each of us to rise above. I look forward to sharing my knowledge, explaining why servant leadership resonates with me, how it fits in my vision and journey, along with hearing your thoughts and ideas! This workshop will be part lecture and part discussion.

Friday 9:00 A.M. Classroom: #2

Muted Precautions - Bambi Twist

During a scene, a partner may become unable to verbally use a safeword due to physical, emotional, or situational factors. How should this be handled in a way that prioritizes safety and consent?

Please join me for a discussion on strategies for safely navigating scenes where a partner may go silent, including the use of non-verbal safewords, active monitoring, and the importance of negotiating these possibilities and accommodations before play begins.

I hope attendees will be able to come up with a safety plan for themselves, their partners and anyone they play with.

Trigger warnings - Talk of hitting land mines during play, going nonverbal.

Friday 10:15 A.M. Classroom: #1

Struggling (and succeeding) with Submission and Surrender - slave Jody

For this discussion, we will be examining submission and surrender, and taking a closer look at the obstacles s-types encounter in submitting and surrendering to a master/mistress/owner/dominant and the barriers the M types encounter in accepting and honoring submission and surrender. We will look at a few different paradigms for constructing and organizing M/s, O/p, and D/s relationships, and discuss what might best facilitate joyous submission, surrender and/or alignment of wills for each of us (because there is no one size fits all in this world). We may also discuss speed bumps along the way in sustaining successful submission and/or surrender long term.

Friday 10:15 A.M. Classroom: #2

Neurospicy Pets: A Beginner’s Guide to Neurodivergence in Pet Play

- Pup Spartan

Taught by Spartan, a Wisconsin-based pet play educator, titleholder, and neurodivergent community member, this beginner class introduces how “neurospicy” brains experience pet play. We’ll cover communication, sensory needs, headspace, and building personas and dynamics that support your brain. Designed for pets, handlers, and allies, this class offers practical tools, shared experiences, and ways to create more affirming and accessible pet community spaces.

Friday 11:30 A.M. Classroom: #1

Pain To-Go: Micro-Toys with Big Reactions - Sir Shay Raven

We’ll dive into how to build scenes in tight or unexpected spaces such as hotel rooms, crowded events, back seats, and anywhere else opportunity strikes. You’ll learn how to negotiate quickly, manage discretion and noise, and create layered experiences that feel intentional, not improvised.

This isn’t about reckless play or grabbing whatever’s nearby. It’s about control, awareness, and knowing exactly how to use what you have to create impact.

Whether you’re new to kink or a seasoned sadist looking to travel lighter, you’ll leave with practical techniques, creative inspiration, and a new appreciation for just how much damage a “harmless” object can do.

Friday 1:00 P.M. Classroom: #1

Getting a Handle on Things: An Introduction to Handler/Pet Interactions and Authority Transfer - Mase

Explore the other end of the leash and find out what a handler’s role is in the world of Pet Play! In this class you’ll learn the basics of pet play, what handlers bring to the equation, and touch on the concept of authority transfer that is sometimes present in a handler/pet dynamic.

Friday 1:00 P.M. Classroom: #2

Names/Labels/Boxes: The Low Down on different Labels and their meanings.

- Freydis

Gender Identities, Sexual/Romantic Orientations, BDSM Archetypes, OH MY! What do all these names and labels mean? If I use a label, am I putting myself in a box? Everyone is different and finding two (or more) kinksters with the exact same preferences is probably impossible; but labels and roles can help us communicate who we are and what we’re looking for. Join Freydís as they define some of the many Gender Identities, Sexual/Romantic Orientations, and BDSM Archetypes you see in the Alternative Lifestyle community; and lead a discussion on our relationships to the labels and roles we utilize.

Trigger Warnings: This class may touch on topics that could be emotionally activating or triggering for some attendees. Potential trigger warnings include:

• Open discussions of gender identity, including experiences of dysphoria, questioning, invalidation, coming out, or navigating non-binary/trans/gender-expansive identities (which may reference bodies, societal expectations, or personal journeys).

• Conversations about sexual/romantic orientations, including ace/aro spectrum experiences, fluidity, or feeling "broken"/pressured by societal norms around attraction.

• Exploration of BDSM roles and power dynamics, which could include references to control, submission, pain, service, ageplay/CGL elements, or past experiences of feeling boxed in/misunderstood by labels or roles.

• Group sharing (optional) where attendees might disclose personal identities, frustrations with labels, or experiences of exclusion/marginalization in kink or LGBTQIA+ spaces.

Friday 2:15 P.M. Classroom: #1

The Bites & Growls of M/s

-Sir Prussian Fyre & Slave Lucky Fyre

Master and slave relationships tend to follow an expected structure. However, in our practice of M/s, we chose to depart from the norm in favor of a more animalistic and energetic primal hierarchy. This is not M/s that is freely given, it is earned and conquered everyday. Where the slave is free to challenge and the Master must answer in kind.

Trigger Warnings - This class includes discussion of primal dynamics, power exchange, and consensual challenge within M/s relationships. Content may explore themes of dominance, resistance, and intense emotional or instinctual interaction.

Friday 2:15 P.M. Classroom: #2

You Want to Be a Titleholder: The Realities Behind the Title

- Lady Gidget , Levi , Sparkle Fox

A practical conversation designed for aspiring titleholders, community organizers, or newcomers who want to understand what truly goes into competing — from the logistics and deadlines to the mindset required to succeed (and what to learn if you don’t win).

Trigger Warnings - Possibility of Rejection

Friday 3:00 P.M. Classroom: Gym

The Impacts of Event Accessibility on Disabled M/s Couples

- Master Lucian and his slave Celina

Disabilities come in a variety of forms including physical, cognitive, and emotional that all have their own accommodation strategies and functional impacts. M/s couples may build some of these accommodation strategies into their protocols or rituals to help manage the burden of some of these impacts together. Navigating event spaces introduces new dynamics outside of the control of attendees that may further impact accessibility navigation and accommodation. We hope that through open and vulnerable discussion of our experiences and the experiences of our community, we can develop strategies to advocate within our relationships and within our event spaces to create more enjoyable event experiences for all who choose to attend.

What we hope attendees learn from this class:

1) Identify the impacts of physical, cognitive, and emotional disabilities on folks in event spaces.

2) Explore protocols and rituals that may assist disabled M/s couples in navigating event spaces.

3) Analyze the experiences of those in attendance to develop advocacy strategies and inform guidelines for accessible events.

Trigger warnings - We will be discussing vulnerable impacts of physical, cognitive, and emotional disabilities. We encourage folks to engage in conversation only to the extent to which they are comfortable, and to step out if needed at any point should they need to take care of themselves.

Friday 3:30 P.M. Classroom: #1

Risk Management for CNC Play

- Snake and Just Liz

Many people are aware of cnc, and free use being involved in play, as well as dynamics. There are many ways that both of those things can be used, but they are also both edge play, and have very real risk as well as dangers. We are going to talk about the risk they have that we may not think about, and how to help mitigate them by approaching them with caution. This will be a information heavy class, and participation is encouraged. This will be a class that will help you walk away with more awareness or tools, regardless of your role.

Friday 3:30 P.M. Classroom: #2

Congrats! You have a Master. Now what? - Master Jay & slave Angel

The dynamic is real.

…and suddenly there are a lot of questions.

This class walks through the often awkward, funny, and deeply human side of stepping into life as a slave. From “what am I supposed to do?” to navigating expectations, mistakes, and growth. Early dynamic missteps (and how to recover) Learning your Master as a human—not a role....Building rhythm, routine, and connection....Relatable, grounding, and full of those “oh thank god it’s not just me” moments.

Saturday 9:00 A.M. Classroom: #1

Morning Mindfulness Flow - Persephone

A kink-friendly morning flow class, oriented towards opening our minds for learning and the day. This flow is aimed towards all levels, and is a vinyasa styled flow. Wear comfortable clothing, the instructor will have a few mats but if you have your own please bring it.

Trigger Warning - Movement Class

Saturday 9:00 A.M. Classroom: #2

FEMMES, AFABs, and Allies… Oh my! - Beauty, MO Ms. Leather ’23- ‘24

This group discussion is designed to uplift women, genderqueer persons, and non-binary folx by creating a space dedicated to their voices. This open conversation aims to emphasize their challenges and encourage you to share your strategies for creating inclusive atmospheres. This exchange will be led by Beauty, MO Ms. Leather ’23- ‘24, who will provide her insight and experiences to foster meaningful conversations.

Saturday 9:00 A.M. Gymnasium

What’s a Little Kidnapping - Slade

Join Slade Grey for an immersive exploration of primal play dynamics, where instinct and fantasy intertwine. In this class, we will delve into the thrilling world of fetish kidnapping scenarios, embracing the raw, untamed aspects of human desire. Participants will learn how to safely navigate the realms of consent, trust, and intensity while engaging in role-play that teeters on the edge of reality and imagination.

Trigger Warnings - CNC, Kidnapping

Saturday 10:15 A.M. Classroom: #1

Dirty & Nerdy: Level Up Your Kink Fandom Style -Mando

Dirty & Nerdy: Level Up Your Kink, Fandom-Style invites you to explore the playful intersection of cosplay, creativity, and kink. Ever wondered how to bring your favorite fandom fantasies to life in a fun, consensual way? This class shows you how to turn imagination into experience.

You’ll learn how to transform everyday fandom gear into inventive play tools, build a costume-inspired toolkit without breaking the bank, and tap into your creativity to design experiences that feel authentic and exciting. The focus is on confidence, communication, and exploring what excites you—without judgment or pressure.

Through engaging live demonstrations, you’ll see how these ideas can come to life in real-world scenarios, sparking inspiration, laughter, and plenty of “I want to try that” moments. Along the way, we emphasize safety, consent, and clear communication as the foundation for everything.

The session wraps up with an open Q&A and a curated list of resources so you leave informed, energized, and ready to create your own Dirty & Nerdy adventures.

Trigger Warnings - Demos use whips or floggers so possible loud sounds (warning is given before each demo) and if permissible a CBT demo is given (again trigger warning is given before hand)

Saturday 10:15 A.M. Classroom: #2

BI‑POC History - Master Mufasa

Join Master Mufasa as he shares the powerful history of Onyx and the broader BI‑POC community, whose leadership and resilience have shaped essential spaces within the leather and kink world.

Many marginalized communities — including women, trans individuals, and BI‑POC leatherfolk — have had to fight for visibility, respect, and room to gather authentically. The BI‑POC community’s journey to create spaces where they can celebrate leather, build connection, and thrive is a vital part of our shared history.

Saturday 11:30 A.M. Classroom: #1

Sex Work in Relation to the Community - Charlie Doll , Mara

This class covers Terminology in the sex work communities going over both the various forms of SW as well as slurs pertaining to specific groups. The class then goes into Sex work and BDSM origins showing the two communities intertwined histories and how sex workers have historically shown up for kinky and Queer folx. I then touch on Sex workers’ contributions to our community such as safe locations, safer sex practices, and self exploration. Stigmatization plays a huge part in both the Kink and sex work communities, especially in legislation aimed at harming us. This class points out ways we as a community contribute to the further marginalization of sex workers. The class finishes up with ways to further our advocacy of sex workers.

Trigger Warnings - Slurs, misogyny, Whorephobia, police brutality

Saturday 11:30 A.M. Classroom: #2

Mental Chess: playing with Brats - Melancholyghost and Chia

Brats are a hybrid of submission and playful defiance. They are always poking and prodding trying to get you to play with them. They want to be punished but they need a good reason why and they will provide it. A brat will dig a big hole for themselves and it is up to the brat handler to put them in said hole. We will take a twisting and turning ride, how to play mental chess with a brat by thinking three moves ahead. How to play their game but take the control. Checkmate!

Trigger Warnings -This will not only be a Demo but a discussion if you do not wish to discuss but just wish to observe we will ask for hands to respect others boundaries to not feel pushed to speak

1:00 P.M. Saturday Classroom: #1

Rope for Every Body - No Fun Nicole and Frankie

The Takata-Kote (TK), or box tie, is a classic shape in Japanese-inspired shibari. But there isn't one true way to achieve this shape, there are many ways to reach your end goal. And sometimes adjustments are needed to make this shape work with your rope bottoms's body. We will discuss a variety of TK styles, alterations that can be made, and the pros and cons of each. Prerequisite: Attendees should have a basic understanding of upper body nerves and how to tie a TK, but even folks new to rope can learn from this discussion! Suggested supplies to tie along: 3-5 hanks of rope and cutting tool.

Trigger Warnings: Bondage

1:30 P.M. Saturday Classroom: Gym

Pony Play - Trainer Liza

We will cover how to find your inner pony or inner trainer, tack on a budget, gaits and movement, pony behaviors, and the joy of pony play. All are welcome and encouraged to participate even if you feel like your body might not support this. Pony Play is for everyone.

Trigger Warnings: Crops and Whips are visible and gently used.

2:00 P.M. Saturday Classroom: Courtyard

Managing Conflict With Your Partners - Cub Scout

Attendees can expect to learn helpful vocabulary to understand the motives and means behind conflict with our partners as well as critical tools to manage and make sense of those conflicts. The class will help attendees understand the cultural dynamics at play whenever we engage in fights with our partners—socially, romantically, and sexually.

2:15 P.M. Saturday Classroom: #1

Scene To Scene: Applying Theatrical Principles to Kink - Finn Gerhardt

Actors and kinksters have more in common than you might think. Both live truthfully under imaginary circumstances, and both use their bodies as instruments of their craft. When International Person of Leather and 30-year stage veteran Finn Gerhardt realized this, they pulled philosophies and techniques from their training as an actor that they realized could improve kink scenes or dynamics. This class covers everything from the philosophy of gender and sexuality as performance to techniques to build a toolkit of intention, partner connection, voice and movement to help keep and maintain headspace.”

2:15 P.M. Saturday Classroom: #2

GETTING SUBTLE

- Master Damascus and slave Demir

Master/slave dynamics don’t disappear just because you’re at work, wrangling kids, or sharing walls with your in-laws, they just get subtle. In this interactive and lighthearted class, Damascus and Demir share real-life strategies for maintaining a 24/7 power exchange dynamic across different environments and risk levels, from government conferences in the Bible Belt to quiet service under the dinner table.

We'll explore how to adapt your protocol for high-risk spaces, build your own "secret code" for subtle communication, and get creative with toys, signals, and playful punishments even when the walls are thin. We'll also talk about digital identity, social media safety, and the importance of carving out intentional time to reconnect.

Come ready to laugh, learn, and leave with practical tools for keeping your dynamic strong; even when you can't be loud about it.

3:15 P.M. Saturday Gymnasium

So You Decided to Become a Handler. Now what? - Daddy Nick

Just like there is no right way to be a pet/critter, there's not right way to be a Handler/Trainer. This class we will discuss what it means to be a handler within the community. While there is no set way to be a handler this class will help you choose your own path to being a handler, and find out what works and does not work for your own personal handling style. We will go over different ways to handle pets, responsibilities of being a handler, and how not to spread yourself too thin.

3:30 P.M. Saturday Classroom: #1

Reading Power: Recognizing capacity, integrity, and risk in potential partners.

- Tigress Lily

Entering a power exchange dynamic requires more than attraction, shared interests, or initial compatibility. It requires the ability to accurately assess another person’s capacity, consistency, and relationship to power. When this assessment is incomplete or influenced by projection, urgency, or assumption, dynamics are more likely to become unstable or misaligned.

This session introduces a framework for evaluating potential partners before entering a dynamic. Participants will examine observable indicators such as communication patterns, emotional regulation, follow-through, and behavior over time. We will also explore common blind spots, including the tendency to prioritize chemistry over consistency and to interpret intention as capability.

Rather than relying on surface-level cues, this class focuses on how power is actually held in practice. Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of what to look for, what to question, and how to approach partner selection with greater discernment and responsibility.

This session is intended to support safer, more aligned, and more sustainable dynamics through more intentional decision-making.

3:30 P.M. Saturday Classroom: #2

Our Mission

Midwest Leather Kink Alliance is a celebration that provides a safe environment for everyone to learn, educate, and promote inclusivity of all, regardless of gender, sexual preference, or relationship style.

MWLKA Code of Conduct

MWLKA Event Rules