In a world where traditional relationship dynamics are constantly being re-evaluated, a growing number of couples are breaking away from monogamy in pursuit of deeper intimacy and individual freedom. Among the voices shedding light on this shift is West Coast-based model Cami Strella, who recently shared her personal journey of opening up her long-term relationship with boyfriend Lev Lieben. What started as an exploration of desires turned into a powerful transformation of their connection—both emotionally and physically.
With over 400,000 followers on Instagram, Cami’s openness about her unconventional love life has sparked conversations around a rising trend known as ‘hotwifing’—a term that’s gaining traction across social media and relationship forums alike.
What is ‘Hotwifing’?
The term ‘hotwifing’ refers to a consensual non-monogamous arrangement where a woman engages in sexual relationships with other men, with the knowledge—and often the encouragement—of her primary partner. Unlike polyamory, which often includes emotional relationships with multiple partners, hotwifing tends to focus on physical intimacy outside the primary relationship.
Though the concept is not entirely new, the term has drawn attention for its unusual juxtaposition with “hotdesking”—the office practice of sharing a desk with multiple employees. In a similar metaphorical sense, hotwifing implies a shared, consensual experience. For some, this new approach has proven to be a surprising fix for stagnation, infidelity, and emotional disconnect.
Cami Strella’s Story: A Path to Rediscovery
Cami and her partner Lev had been in a committed relationship for around two years when they first began discussing the idea of opening things up. While Cami had always felt a desire to explore her sexual identity more fully, the concept of sharing those experiences with Lev’s knowledge and support was initially daunting.
“There were a lot of misunderstandings in the beginning,” she admitted. “We had a lot of rules. It was a bit weird.”
Navigating boundaries in any non-traditional relationship model can be difficult, especially when both partners are stepping into uncharted emotional territory. However, Cami credits their ability to communicate openly and compassionately with eventually transforming the discomfort into connection.
“Since opening up to each other about our concerns and sharing our desires, it has turned into something really great,” she shared.
Exploring Intimacy Outside the Relationship
For Cami, the transition to a non-monogamous relationship wasn’t just about seeking novelty—it was about rediscovering herself sexually. “The sex that Lev and I have is very different to the sex I have with anyone else,” she said, emphasizing that her relationship with Lev remained sacred and unique, despite having other partners.
In many non-monogamous setups, the distinction between emotional and physical intimacy becomes crucial. The trust required to maintain such boundaries is significant, and both Cami and Lev had to confront deep-rooted insecurities.
At first, Cami found it difficult to accept Lev being with other women. “I struggled with letting him go,” she confessed. But instead of withdrawing, she leaned in—and surprisingly found joy in helping Lev find dates and hearing about his experiences.
Radical Transparency: A Pillar of Their Bond
One of the keys to making their arrangement work has been a high level of transparency. Cami and Lev share their outside encounters with each other, not as a form of control, but as a way of staying emotionally synchronized.
“It’s very normal to feel a bit awkward at first,” Cami noted. “But once you unbridle yourself from the concept of monogamy, it’s really freeing.”
This kind of radical honesty isn’t just about being accountable—it’s about developing deeper emotional intelligence and understanding. For Cami, this has been instrumental in solidifying her bond with Lev.
“We have a deep connection that has only gotten stronger with time,” she said. “It is a level of intimacy very few people will ever understand—but for us, it’s been incredibly fulfilling.”
Why Some Couples Turn to Hotwifing
While the idea of open relationships or hotwifing may seem threatening to many, advocates argue that these dynamics can reignite passion, rebuild trust, and eliminate the need for secrecy. In fact, some couples report that bringing fantasies into the open allows them to navigate jealousy and fear more healthily.
Hotwifing often includes emotional guardrails—rules and discussions about what is and isn’t acceptable—which helps maintain clarity and structure. For some, it becomes a way to embrace personal freedom while still honoring the core relationship.
Psychologists suggest that couples who engage in consensual non-monogamy tend to have higher levels of communication and emotional maturity, compared to their monogamous counterparts. While that doesn’t mean non-monogamy is for everyone, it certainly points to the importance of open dialogue in any relationship structure.
The Social Stigma Around Non-Monogamy
Despite its growing popularity, non-monogamy still carries a heavy cultural stigma. Terms like “cheating” and “infidelity” are deeply ingrained in the collective consciousness, making it difficult for many to view open relationships without judgment.
For public figures like Cami Strella, being transparent about their lifestyle often invites criticism. However, her willingness to discuss the emotional depth and complexities of her relationship offers a counter-narrative to the stereotype that open relationships are just about sexual gratification.
By sharing her story, Cami challenges the one-size-fits-all model of love, proving that authenticity and trust can take many forms.
Navigating Jealousy, Insecurity, and Growth
Cami and Lev’s journey wasn’t without growing pains. Like most people venturing into non-monogamy, they had to face deeply personal emotions—jealousy being the most common.
“It’s not like you magically stop feeling insecure,” she said. “But you begin to understand those feelings better, and you don’t let them control you.”
In some ways, their non-traditional path forced both partners to become more emotionally present, more secure in themselves, and more curious about each other’s evolving desires.
Lev’s willingness to explore the dynamic equally was essential to Cami’s comfort. “It was only fair,” she noted, acknowledging that equality in exploration was crucial for the trust between them.
Is This the Future of Relationships?
As more couples question the limitations of monogamy, the visibility of models like Cami Strella helps normalize alternative relationship styles. With platforms like Instagram, Reddit, and even mainstream media discussing polyamory and hotwifing more openly, it seems society is slowly inching toward broader definitions of love and fidelity.
That said, non-monogamy isn’t a magic solution. It requires intense self-work, unfiltered communication, and a foundation of deep mutual respect. It may not suit every couple—but for those like Cami and Lev, it has become the path to a stronger, more honest relationship.
In a time where love, sex, and identity are constantly evolving, the stories of couples who dare to redefine what it means to be committed are more important than ever. Cami Strella and Lev Lieben’s journey shows that with the right mindset, empathy, and openness, even the most unconventional paths can lead to the deepest forms of intimacy.
They didn’t just break a rule—they built a new one that worked for them. And maybe, that’s the real secret to lasting love.
