Sexology

Welcome to episode 487 of the Sexology Podcast! Today, I am excited to be joined by Courtney Faye Long, who speaks to me about understanding and resolving lost desire in long-term relationships. In this episode, we talk about a common problem that many couples in long-term relationships have: the natural change and sometimes loss of sexual desire. When a partner's interest seems to fade, it's easy for our minds to jump to the worst possible conclusions. But in reality, it's often because of mismatched expectations, not a lack of attraction. Courtney and I talk about the myth of rushing through physical intimacy and why treating sex like a race often makes people feel disconnected. Courtney Fae Long, MSW, LC, CHt, is the creator of Sex Life Makeover and TEDx speaker whose work has been featured in NBC, Forbes, MSN, and Psychology Today. She specializes in highly sexual women who feel frustrated and unfulfilled. She holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) and certificates in Sexuality Education and Sex Therapy from the University of Michigan and has been teaching for 25+ years. Courtney brings a lighthearted, joyful approach to sex. In this episode, you will hear: ● The Myth of Sex in Football Style ● Physiological Requirements for Extended Warm-ups ● Going from Hustle Culture to Presence ● The Idea of Foreplay All Day ● Changing the Way We Do Date Night ● How Mothering Changes Kill Sexual Desire ● The Risks of Pretending to Enjoy and Have Orgasms ● Talking About Changing Sexual Preferences ● Growing the Parasympathetic Nervous System ● The Twenty-Minute Cuddle and Connect Exercise Ebook Spice Up Your Social Media Feed AND Your Sex Life: Follow Us On Instagram Podcast Produced by Vaudeo Productions Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to Episode 486 of the Sexology Podcast! Today I am excited to be joined by Juliane Maxwald who speaks to me about understanding our sexual symptoms as deeper unconscious communications. In this episode, we talk about how sexual problems are rarely just about sex. In this day and age, people are always looking for a quick fix or a medical solution to their personal problems. Julianne beautifully explains that symptoms like low desire or trouble getting an erection are often our bodies telling us about deeper emotional needs, unresolved trauma, or hidden worries. Juliane Maxwald, MA, LP, CST, is a licensed psychoanalyst, couples therapist and AASECT-certified sex therapist based in New York City. She has over fifteen years of experience working with individuals and couples across a wide range of concerns, including sexuality and intimacy, trauma, addiction and compulsive behaviors, mood and anxiety disorders, and relational and family-of-origin dynamics. Her work is grounded in contemporary psychoanalysis and informed by trauma theory, somatic awareness, and relational, sex-positive frameworks. Juliane specializes in helping people move beyond symptom-focused treatment—whether the symptom shows up as sexual difficulty, burnout, overwork, emotional numbing, or relational conflict—and toward a deeper understanding of the unconscious patterns shaping their lives. In this episode, you will hear: · Reconceptualizing Sexual Dysfunction as Emotional Communication · The Risk of Excessive Medicalization of Personal Issues · Getting to Know the Unconscious Messages Behind Low Desire · Anxiety about performance and the need for approval · Using Relaxation Techniques Such as Beach Showers · How Repetition Compulsion Relates to Past Trauma · Examining the Underlying Factors of Compulsive Sexual Behaviors · Unpacking the Hidden Themes in Pornography Usage · Sexual Behavior That Is Out of Control as a Way to Control Emotions · Getting over sexual shame with curiosity and kindness Book an Appointment with Dr. Nazanin Moali Hard Penis Check List Spice Up Your Social Media Feed AND Your Sex Life: Follow Us On Instagram Podcast Produced by Vaudeo Productions Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to Episode 485 of the Sexology Podcast! Today I am excited to be joined by Sienna Sinclaire, who speaks to me about the art of oral sex and navigating the mental blocks that often surround it. In this episode, we talk about real ways to improve your skills and boost your confidence. The goal is to treat sexual encounters like a playground for exploration. You can do this by using your hands as a tool and trying out different temperatures, like ice and warm water. We also talk about common worries about smell and body image, stressing the importance of being able to read and write about health issues and accepting yourself instead of feeling ashamed. Sienna Sinclaire is an award-winning author, creative director, certified sex coach, and lifestyle entrepreneur redefining modern sensuality through storytelling, design, and immersive brand experiences. As the visionary behind Sienna Sinclaire Studios, Naughty Girl Shop, and Naughty Girl Motel, she has built a world where fashion, travel, artistry, and empowerment collide. Her work celebrates women who want to live boldly, merging glamour, self-love, and sensual confidence into an unapologetic lifestyle. Through her signature blend of luxury branding, cinematic storytelling, and experiential design, Sienna invites audiences into a universe that blurs fantasy and reality, inspiring others to create a life that turns them on. In this episode, you will hear: · Unlearning Outdated Sexual Scripts · Navigating Performance Anxiety Blocks · Importance Of Active Feedback · Utilising Hands For Enhanced Pleasure · Addressing Body Image Insecurity · Facts About Natural Scent · Experimenting With Temperature Sensations · Limitations Of Pornographic Education · Exploring Diverse Genital Anatomy · Integrating Pleasure Enhancement Tools Afternoon Delight Workshop Spice Up Your Social Media Feed AND Your Sex Life: Follow Us On Instagram Podcast Produced Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to Episode 484 of the Sexology Podcast! Today I am excited to be joined by Genevieve Lejeune, who speaks to me about the evolution of sexual identity and the importance of creating safe spaces for exploration. In this episode, we discuss the emotional complexities that arise when a partner begins to question or redefine their sexual orientation. This journey can often feel destabilizing for both individuals in a relationship, triggering fears of inadequacy or the worry that the relationship might be coming to an end. Genevieve and I discuss how to navigate these transitions by prioritizing emotional safety and curiosity over panic and control. Genevieve Lejeune is the founder of Skirt Club, a private members club for bi-curious & bisexual women. With more than 25,000 members globally, women are more interested in each other than ever. She was the first to curate luxurious global events where women can put their own desires first, and gain confidence from the bedroom to the boardroom. A leading figure in the movement for women’s sexual empowerment, Genevieve has been interviewed for high-profile publications such as Marie Claire, Elle Magazine, Cosmo, Bloomberg, Rolling Stone and the Sunday Times. In this episode, you will hear: · Understanding Sexual Identity Evolution · Managing Relationship Fears And Insecurity · The Origin Of Skirt Club · Benefits Of Women Only Spaces · Avoiding Performative Sexual Pressure · Communication Strategies For Couples · The Role Of Emotional Safety · Exploring Physical Desire And Affection · Navigating Monogamy And Fluidity · Resources For Bisexual Exploration Steady Freddy Thank you to our sponsor! ​Steady Freddy​ is here to bring men’s sexual health out of the shadows and into everyday conversation. Their ​Delay Spray​ created for men who experience premature ejaculation or just want to last a bit longer in bed. It’s simple. Spray on. Play on. Enjoy! Use the code SEXOLOGY and enjoy 15% off. Spice Up Your Social Media Feed AND Your Sex Life: Follow Us On Instagram Podcast Produced by Vaudeo Productions Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to Episode 483 of the Sexology Podcast! Today I am excited to have Courtney Boyer on the show. In this episode, Courtney talks to me about how she transitioned from living in a strict purity culture to living in a polyamorous lifestyle. Courtney discusses her childhood in a strict religious setting where her worth and safety were closely linked to her ability to control her sexual urges. We talk about the "myth of the perfect Christian wife" and how many women in these communities feel pressured to keep up the act of sacrifice. Courtney Boyer, M.Ed., M.S., is a therapist-turned-relationship coach, writer, and speaker whose work centers on love, desire, and authenticity. She has been featured in The New York Post, Cosmopolitan, The Huffington Post, and BBC Radio Live. Drawing on her background in mental health and sex therapy, she brings a unique blend of professional expertise and lived experience to conversations around relationships and identity. When she isn’t writing or coaching, Courtney can be found chasing joy—traveling, reading, or savoring delicious coffee and deep conversation. She is passionate about helping women break free from shame, reclaim their bodies and voices, and create relationships rooted in honesty and autonomy. In this episode, you will hear: · How Purity Culture Affects How You Feel About Yourself · Disputing The Myth Of The Ideal Christian Wife · Going From Being Monogamous To Being Polyamorous · How To Handle The Dynamics Of A Mono-poly Relationship · Setting Limits In Parallel Polyamory · The Significance Of Representation In Non-monogamy · Reclaiming Joy Through Bodily Embodiment · Building Self-trust After Being Controlled By Religion · Why Women Should Date Men Who Are Older Than Them · Finding Your Own Reason To Open Up Thank you to our sponsor! ​Steady Freddy​ is here to bring men’s sexual health out of the shadows and into everyday conversation. Their ​Delay Spray​ created for men who experience premature ejaculation or just want to last a bit longer in bed. It’s simple. Spray on. Play on. Enjoy! Use the code SEXOLOGY and enjoy 15% off. Spice Up Your Social Media Feed AND Your Sex Life: Follow Us On Instagram Podcast Produced by Vaudeo Productions Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to Episode 482 of the Sexology Podcast! Today I am excited to be joined by Jessica Idoine who speaks to me about the role of the nervous system in erotic connection and how couples can move from the stress of daily life into a state that supports intimacy and foreplay. Jessica and I talk about why a lot of people find it difficult to shift from the hectic nature of daily obligations to erotic connection. We examine how the nervous system is crucial to sexual responsiveness and why arousal and pleasure depend on a transition from a fight-or-flight response to a more relaxed, present-moment state. Jessica is a licensed and certified relationship and sex therapist, retreat facilitator, and founder of Expansive Connections Retreats. She helps couples and individuals cultivate deeper intimacy, emotional safety, and honest communication through a trauma-informed, somatic, and evidence-based approach. With specialized experience supporting LGBTQIA+ clients, neurodivergent couples, and non-traditional relationships, Jessica is known for reframing relationship myths, normalizing complex dynamics, and offering practical, accessible tools for navigating intimacy, conflict, and long-term connection. In this episode, you will hear: · The Nervous System’s Role In Sexual Arousal · Why Stress Blocks Erotic Connection · Moving From Fight Or Flight To Rest And Digest · Practical Co-Regulation Rituals For Couples · The Power Of Non-Demand Touch And Connection · Navigating Desire Mismatch In Relationships · How To Communicate A Loving “No” To Sex · Recognizing Signs Of Nervous System Shutdown · Using Rituals To Transition Into Intimacy · Small Shifts That Help Couples Feel Safer And More Connected Thank you to our sponsor! ​Steady Freddy​ is here to bring men's sexual health out of the shadows and into everyday conversation. Their ​Delay Spray​ created for men who experience premature ejaculation or just want to last a bit longer in bed. It's simple. Spray on. Play on. Enjoy! Use the code SEXOLOGY and enjoy 15% off. Spice Up Your Social Media Feed AND Your Sex Life: Follow Us On Instagram Podcast Produced by Vaudeo Productions Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to Episode 481 of the Sexology Podcast! I'm thrilled to have Gigi Engle join me today as she talks about kink, how it's frequently misinterpreted, and how people can explore their desires with open communication, curiosity, and safety. Gigi and I discuss what kink actually entails and why it is much more expansive than the preconceived notions that many people have about it. She describes how the term "kink" serves as a catch-all for a variety of relational and sensory experiences, ranging from more symbolic forms of erotic expression to power dynamics and sensation play. Gigi Engle is a COSRT-registered, MNCIP, ACS, CSE, CSC, GSRD-accredited, award-winning author, certified sex & relationships psychotherapist, and sex educator. She works clinically as an associate clinician at The Therapy Yard, where she specializes in supporting GSRD (Gender, Sexuality, and Relationship Diverse) clients, including members of the LGBTQIA+ community, kinky folx, and people in polyamorous and open relationships. Gigi is the author of two books: Kink Curious and All The F*cking Mistakes. Kink Curious is available for pre-order and comes out January 21st. In this episode, you will hear: · The True Meaning of Kink · Distinctions Between Fetish and Kink · Reasons Behind Many People's Unrealized Kinkiness · The Evolution of Kinks · Psychology of Symbolic and Sensory Play · Kink Exploration's Emotional Safety · The Significance of Safe Words and Consent · Comprehending the Concept of an Enthusiastic Maybe · Managing Shame Regarding Sexual Desires · How Couples Can Respectfully Discuss Kinks Thank you to our sponsor! ​Steady Freddy​ is here to bring men's sexual health out of the shadows and into everyday conversation. Their ​Delay Spray​ created for men who experience premature ejaculation, or just want to last a bit longer in bed. It's simple. Spray on. Play on. Enjoy! Use the code SEXOLOGY and enjoy 15% off. Spice Up Your Social Media Feed AND Your Sex Life: Follow Us On Instagram Podcast Produced by Vaudeo Productions Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to Episode 480 of the Sexology Podcast! Today I am excited to be joined by Dr. Taylor P. Kohn who speaks to me about the impact of GLP-1 receptor agonists on sexual health and erectile function. In this episode, we discuss the growing curiosity around GLP-1 medications and whether they influence erectile dysfunction, libido, and overall sexual performance. Dr. Kohn shares insights from his large claims database study examining young men without diabetes who initiated GLP-1 treatment. We also talk about reassuring findings, including the low overall rate of new erectile dysfunction diagnoses, while also unpacking the difference between correlation and causation. Dr. Taylor P. Kohn, MD, M.Phil. is an Assistant Professor in the Scott Department of Urology at Baylor College of Medicine, specializing in Male Infertility and Sexual Dysfunction. Dr. Kohn began his academic career at Baylor University where he developed a love for biomedical research. In 2013, he was awarded a prestigious Fulbright Scholarship, enabling him to pursue a Master of Philosophy (M.Phil.) in Instrumentation at the University of Manchester in the United Kingdom, studying protein distribution in Alzheimer’s disease using imaging mass spectrometers. In this episode, you will hear: · GLP-1 Medications And Erectile Dysfunction Risk · Libido Changes And Reward System Questions · Microvascular Health And Cardiovascular Links · Weight Loss, Muscle Mass, And Hormone Regulation · Testosterone Optimization Through Lifestyle · Psychological Contributors To Erectile Challenges · Treatment Ladder For Erectile Dysfunction · Shockwave Therapy And Regenerative Options · Penile Injections And Prosthesis Outcomes · Stress Reduction And Sexual Confidence Building Thank you to our sponsor! ​Steady Freddy​ is here to bring men's sexual health out of the shadows and into everyday conversation. Their ​Delay Spray​ created for men who experience premature ejaculation, or just want to last a bit longer in bed. It's simple. Spray on. Play on. Enjoy! Use the code SEXOLOGY and enjoy 15% off. Hard Penis Check List Spice Up Your Social Media Feed AND Your Sex Life: Follow Us On Instagram Podcast Produced by Vaudeo Productions Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to Episode 479 of the Sexology Podcast! Today I am excited to be joined by Zach Brittle who speaks to me about negative sentiment override and how relationship dynamics shape our erotic connection. In this episode, Zach and I discuss how the emotional tone of a relationship deeply influences intimacy inside and outside the bedroom. We look at the concept of Negative Sentiment Override, a term from John Gottman’s research, and discuss how couples can find themselves stuck in patterns where even neutral moments feel charged with criticism or defensiveness. Zach has been teaching, coaching, mentoring and counseling couples for nearly 20 years. He is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Washington and a Certified Gottman Therapist (CGT) and Relational Life Therapist. He is the host of Marriage Therapy Radio and the author of the best selling relationship guide The Relationship Alphabet and the Marriage Therapy Journal. His writings and insights have also been featured in Vanity Fair, Men’s Health, Real Simple, The New York Times and the Washington Post. Zach has been happily married to his wife Rebecca for 25 of 28 years. They live in Seattle with their two adulting daughters. In this episode, you will hear: · Understanding Negative Sentiment Override · Positive Versus Negative Emotional Filters · The Pasta Example And Neutral Events · Emotional Safety And Sexual Vulnerability · Gender Socialization And Desire Patterns · Slowing Down Between Impulse And Response · Taking Responsibility In Relationship Conflict · Contempt And The Illusion Of Superiority · Redefining What Sex Is For · Scheduling Erotic Play And Expanding Intimacy Work With Dr. Nazanin Moali Spice Up Your Social Media Feed AND Your Sex Life: Follow Us On Instagram Podcast Produced by Vaudeo Productions Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to Episode 478 of the Sexology Podcast! Today I am excited to be joined by EJ and Tarah Kerwin who speak to me about sex and parenting, how becoming parents reshaped their intimacy, desire, and how they maintain their emotional connection to each other. In this episode, EJ and Tarah speak to me about what it was like to go from a playful, spontaneous sex life to feeling completely overwhelmed after the birth of their twins; navigating sleep deprivation, and the resurfacing of past trauma. They also talk openly about the grief that can accompany shifts in identity, libido, and partnership, and how isolating that transition can feel when couples are not talking about it. EJ and Tarah Kerwin are the founders of Relationship Renovation and hosts of the Relationship Renovation Podcast, where they share raw honesty, humor, and decades of combined experience as relationship coaches to help couples deepen intimacy, build emotional safety, and navigate the complexities of long-term partnership. Known for their vulnerability and willingness to share their own relationship challenges, EJ and Tarah offer practical tools, research-backed insights, and real-life stories that resonate with couples around the world. In this episode, you will hear: · The Impact Of Parenting On Sexual Desire · Navigating Postpartum And Identity Shifts · Grief Around Changing Intimacy · Higher And Lower Desire Dynamics · Emotional Safety In Long Term Relationships · Pressure Windows And Sexual Expectations · Rebuilding Intimacy Through Communication · Processing Trauma Within Partnership · Non Sexual Affection And Erotic Connection · Creating Systems To Prioritize Your Relationship FREE Foreplay Checklist Ideas Spice Up Your Social Media Feed AND Your Sex Life: Follow Us On Instagram Podcast Produced by Vaudeo Productions Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to episode 477 of the Sexology Podcast! Today I am excited to be joined by Laurie Gerber, who speaks to me about how to communicate about sex, sexual preferences, and talking about difficult topics like STIs with more confidence and clarity. In this episode, Laurie and I discuss why silence is one of the biggest obstacles to fulfilling sexual and romantic relationships. Laurie shares powerful insights from her work with clients, especially around why sex is a key differentiator between friendship and romantic partnership, and why ongoing conversations matter more than crisis-driven ones. Laurie Gerber is the creator of Master the Art of Love, an online digital course for women over 50 who are ready to date like they mean it. She’s the host of the podcast “Love at Any Age,” through which she coaches the audience, based on the wholehearted belief that everyone deserves healthy, lasting love, and it’s never too late. For over 20 years, first as President of the Life Coaching division at Handel Group® and then as founder of Laurie Gerber Coaching Inc. she has been life and love coaching thousands of individuals and couples. Laurie is currently licensing The Handel Method® and uses it in her online and one-on-one coaching to help people achieve their dreams, with a focus on love. In this episode, you will hear: · Why Silence Is The Biggest Mistake · Sex As A Learnable Skill · Making Sex An Ongoing Conversation · Choosing The Right Time And Setting · Asking Permission To Talk About Sex · Practical Hacks To Start Conversations · Navigating STI Disclosure With Confidence · Setting Sexual Boundaries Early · Desire Mismatches And Rejection · Rituals, Scheduling, And Prioritizing Sex Get The How To Be The Man She Desires Guide HERE Spice Up Your Social Media Feed AND Your Sex Life: Follow Us On Instagram Podcast Produced by Vaudeo Productions Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to Episode 476 of the Sexology Podcast! Today I am excited to be joined by Ally Iseman, who speaks to me about desire discrepancy, long-term intimacy, and how travel can become a powerful doorway back to erotic connection. In this episode, Ally and I discuss one of the most common struggles couples bring into therapy: loving their partner while feeling disconnected from sex and intimacy. We talk about why desire naturally shifts over time, how novelty + security can feel like they are pulling in opposite directions, and why sexless periods are often symptoms rather than the core issue. Ally Iseman is a non-monogamy educator, erotic lifestyle consultant, and ICF-certified relationship coach who has spent over a decade helping individuals, couples, and moresomes create authentic, fulfilling relationships on their own terms. As the founder of Passport 2 Pleasure, an inclusive relationship education platform, Ally champions open communication and conscious connection within sex-positive and non-traditional relationship dynamics. In this episode, you will hear: · Understanding Desire Discrepancy · Why Novelty Fuels Erotic Energy · Sexless Relationships As A Symptom · Reframing Masturbation And Shame · Travel As Foreplay For Connection · Escape Versus Exploration In Trips · Sensuality Beyond Sexual Acts · Creating Mystery Through Planning · Managing Expectations And Pressure · Curiosity As A Relationship Skill Passport2Pleasure: Use our link HERE to save $100 on the course “ENM 101: Open Up Without Breaking Up” Spice Up Your Social Media Feed AND Your Sex Life: Follow Us On Instagram Podcast Produced by Vaudeo Productions Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to Episode 475 of the Sexology Podcast! Today, I am excited to be joined by Caitlin V, who speaks to me about erectile unpredictability, performance anxiety, and supporting men’s sexuality through a holistic, shame-free lens. A quick note for my single listeners in California, if you're craving intentional, psychologically grounded ways to meet people. We have a beautiful offering coming up through LALOVELAB.com; a company I co-created with my colleague Dr. Richard Espinoza. Our next matchmaking event is Saturday February 7th at 4:00pmhosted at the Craft Contemporary Museum in LA. It's thoughtfully curated experience designed by us to help you connect with intention, not apps. In this episode, Caitlyn and I discuss how many men are struggling with sexual performance earlier in life and why this is not a personal failure or a flaw. We also talk about how cultural expectations, lack of accurate sex education, and constant exposure to unrealistic sexual imagery can shape anxiety around erections, desire, and confidence. Caitlin V is one of today’s leading voices in modern sexuality and the host of the HBO Max series Good Sex. A researcher and coach with a background in public health, she has empowered millions to transform their sex lives through her coaching, courses, and viral online content. Her evidence-based, shame-free approach bridges clinical research with real-world intimacy, showing how better sex can make us better humans. Featured in O Magazine, GQ, Variety, and more, Caitlin champions a vision of sexuality that makes us not only better lovers--but more compassionate humans. In this episode, you will hear: · Understanding Erectile Unpredictability · Performance Anxiety And Its Root Causes · Porn, Arousal, And Unrealistic Expectations · Treating Men’s Sexuality Holistically · Breaking Shame And Silence Around Sex · Talking To A Partner With Confidence · Rebuilding Erotic Connection As A Couple · Reducing Pressure And Outcome Focus · Sex Toys And Supportive Tools For Men · Practical Exercises For Emotional Intimacy Spice Up Your Social Media Feed AND Your Sex Life: Follow Us On Instagram Podcast Produced by Vaudeo Productions Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to Episode 474 of the Sexology Podcast! Today I am excited to be joined by Amy Quinn and Malia Carvallo, who speak to me about healing sexuality, pleasure, and connection through embodiment, community, and altered states of consciousness. A quick note for my single listeners in California, if you're craving intentional, psychologically grounded ways to meet people. We have a beautiful offering coming up through LALOVELAB.com; a company I co-created with my colleague Dr. Richard Espinoza. Our next matchmaking event is Saturday February 7th at 4:00pmhosted at the Craft Contemporary Museum in LA. It's thoughtfully curated experience designed by us to help you connect with intention, not apps. In this episode, we explore how pleasure and erotic energy can be deeply healing when approached with intention, safety, and compassion. Amy and Malia share their personal journeys into healing work, including dolphin-assisted experiences, somatic practices, and psychedelic-informed therapy. Amy Ruffolo Quinn, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist with a private practice in El Segundo, California. She is also the founder of Your Beautiful Beginning, LLC, where she leads Wild Dolphin Wellness Retreats that weave together somatic healing, nature, and the medicine of joy. Malia Carvalho is a somatic guide, trauma-informed tantra educator, and founder of The Dreamweaver Collective. Through a unique blend of Kundalini Fusion, somatic yoga, nervous-system regulation, sound healing, microdosing support, and integrative embodiment work, she helps women reconnect with their pleasure, creativity, and personal power. In this episode, you will hear: ● Healing Sexuality Through Embodiment ● Releasing Shame Around Pleasure ● Dolphin-Assisted Healing Experiences ● Psychedelic-Informed Therapy And Integration ● The Role Of Breath In Pleasure ● Presence, Surrender, And Letting Go ● Relational Healing And Community Support ● Erotic Energy As A Healing Force ● Creating Safe Containers For Exploration ● Joy As A Pathway To Wholeness Spice Up Your Social Media Feed AND Your Sex Life: Follow Us On Instagram Podcast Produced by Vaudeo Productions Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to Episode 473 of the Sexology Podcast! Today I am excited to be joined by Dr. Nicole Thompson, who speaks to me about psychedelic-informed sexuality, chemsex, and harm reduction in erotic spaces. A quick note for my single listeners in California, if you're craving intentional, psychologically grounded ways to meet people. We have a beautiful offering coming up through LALOVELAB.com; a company I co-created with my colleague Dr. Richard Espinoza. Our next matchmaking event is Saturday February 7th at 4:00pm hosted at the Craft Contemporary Museum in LA. It's thoughtfully curated experience designed by us to help you connect with intention, not apps. In this episode, we discuss how psychedelics intersect with sexuality, pleasure, and relationships, beginning with a reframe of what we even mean by “drugs” and altered states. We also talk about how substances such as MDMA, psilocybin, and ketamine can act as non-specific amplifiers, and why intention, set, and setting matter so deeply when people are exploring erotic connection in altered states. Dr. Nicole Thompson is a queer sex and relationship psychotherapist providing psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, researcher, and host of the top-5% global podcast Modern Anarchy. As the founder of The Pleasure Practice, she supports individuals in crafting expansive sex lives and intimate relationships grounded in desire, freedom, and authenticity. Her work weaves together psychology and embodiment, exploring how pleasure, psychedelics, and relational healing open pathways to liberation. In this episode, you will hear: · Psychedelics And Erotic States · Chemsex And Harm Reduction · Set, Setting, And Intention · Consent In Altered States · Managing Jealousy And Activation · Grounding And Co-Regulation Tools · Comparing MDMA, Psilocybin, And Ketamine · Safety, Dosing, And Preparation · Integration After Psychedelic Sex · Sober Psychedelic Sex Practices Spice Up Your Social Media Feed AND Your Sex Life: Follow Us On Instagram Podcast Produced by Vaudeo Productions Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to Episode 472 of the Sexology Podcast! Today I am excited to be joined by Anya Laeta, August McLaughlin, Bel Di Lorenzo, Dr. Elliot Justin, Dr. Evan Goldstein, Dr. Maria Sophocles, Nicoletta Heidegger and Suzannah Weiss as part of this special episode on setting goals for sexual health in 2026. As we move into the new year, I want to slow things down a bit and move away from rigid resolutions that are often rooted in pressure, shame, or performance. In this episode, I’m bringing together voices you already know and trust to help reframe sexual health goals as supportive practices rather than benchmarks to pass or fail. Throughout this episode, we discuss your capacity for pleasure, enhancing communication, and letting go of narrow definitions of what sex is supposed to look like. We also look at nervous system safety, pelvic floor health, pleasure practices, sex technology, and intimacy in midlife. This episode aims to remind you that great sex isn’t about fixing yourself; it's about developing skills, remaining connected to your body, and allowing yourself the freedom to grow at your own pace. In this episode, you will hear: · Setting Shame Free Sexual Intentions · Using Your Voice In Intimacy · Expanding Pleasure Capacity · Building Nervous System Safety · Body Acceptance And Arousal · Pelvic Floor Health And Pleasure · Pleasure Over Performance · Normalizing Change Across Life Stages · Creating Sustainable Pleasure Practices · Redefining What Counts As Sex Track Your Sexual Health AND Keep IT UP with Firm Tech Save 15% Sex Goh!dess Vaginal Gymnastics Save $100 HERE Sexual Skills Workshop Spice Up Your Social Media Feed AND Your Sex Life: Follow Us On Instagram Podcast Produced by Vaudeo Productions Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to Episode 471 of the Sexology Podcast! Today I am excited to be joined by Ita O’Brien, who speaks to me about intimacy coordination, embodied consent, and creating safety and authenticity in intimate storytelling. In this episode, I sit down with Ita to discuss what an intimacy coordinator actually does and why this role has become so essential in film, television, and theatre. We talk about how intimacy coordination brings structure, clarity, and care to intimate scenes, not only to protect performers, but to serve the story, the characters, and the creative vision. Ita O’Brien is an intimacy coordinator and movement director for film, television, and theater. For more than a decade, she has been developing “intimacy on set” guidelines: best practices for working on scenes with sexual content and nudity in film, TV, and theater. O’Brien pioneered the role of intimacy coordinator, which is used in production companies including HBO and Netflix. Her work has been featured in publications such as The Guardian, The New York Times, and NBC. She’s contributed to the intimate content praised in shows such as Normal People, Sex Education, and I May Destroy You. In this episode, you will hear: · What An Intimacy Coordinator Does · Creating Safety On Set · Consent As A Creative Foundation · Embodiment And Somatic Awareness · Choreographing Intimate Scenes · Anatomy And Authentic Storytelling · Power Dynamics And Character Choice · Training And Professional Standards · Emotional Safety In Long Term Relationships · Bringing Intimacy Practices Into Daily Life Thank you to our sponsor Filthy Milfs! Your podcast lineup is about to get filthy. Get ready for a completely uncensored, outspoken, dirty-minded, and eye-opening look from the most adventurous milfs on the block, Ellen Ancui and Sophie Levine. They're filthy. They're milfy. And they’re waiting for you on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you catch your favorite podcasts. Get your FREE Sex Bucket List Book an Appointment with Dr. Moali Spice Up Your Social Media Feed AND Your Sex Life: Follow Us On Instagram Podcast Produced by Vaudeo Productions Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to Episode 470 of the Sexology Podcast! Today I am excited to be joined by Margeaux Feldman, who speaks to me about trauma, chronic illness, intimacy, and pleasure, inspired by their book Touch Me. I’m Sick. In this episode, we discuss the personal and academic journey that led them to write Touch Me. I’m Sick., which began as a PhD dissertation and evolved into a deeply human book about sickness, trauma, disability, and love. Margeaux shares how their own experience with chronic illness shifted their work away from purely academic analysis and toward something more accessible, relational, and rooted in lived experience. Margeaux Feldman is a writer, a public educator, and an artist. They hold an MFA in Creative Writing from CalArts and a PhD in English Literature and Sexual Diversity Studies from the University of Toronto. Margeaux's first book Touch Me, I'm Sick: A Memoir in Essays was just published with Beacon Press. They also created the popular meme account @softcore_trauma on Instagram, where they share memes and writing that testifies to their experiences living with trauma and chronic illness. In this episode, you will hear: · The Origin Story Of Touch Me. I’m Sick. · Chronic Illness And Trauma Connections · Redefining Intimacy And Care · Independence, Codependence, And Interdependence · Wellness Culture And Performativity · Trauma, Pleasure, And Ambivalence · Dissociation As A Survival Strategy · “Ugly Sex” And Sexual Healing · Somatic Therapy And Embodiment · Pleasure As A Political Act Thank you to our sponsor Filthy Milfs! Your podcast lineup is about to get filthy. Get ready for a completely uncensored, outspoken, dirty-minded, and eye-opening look from the most adventurous milfs on the block, Ellen Ancui and Sophie Levine. They're filthy. They're milfy. And they’re waiting for you on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you catch your favorite podcasts. Get your FREE Sex Bucket List Book an Appointment with Dr. Moali Spice Up Your Social Media Feed AND Your Sex Life: Follow Us On Instagram Podcast Produced by Vaudeo Productions Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to Episode 469 of the Sexology Podcast! Today I am excited to be joined by Laura Federico and Morgan Miller who speak to me about cycle tracking, hormones, and the mind body connection in sexuality and health. In this episode, we discuss what inspired Laura and Morgan to write their book “The Cycle Book” and how their personal and professional experiences shaped their approach. We talk about the profound gaps in education around hormones, menstruating bodies, and sexual health, and how this lack of information often leaves people feeling confused, dismissed, or disconnected from their own bodies. Laura Federico is a psychotherapist and AASECT-certified sex and relationship therapist in private practice, and Morgan Miller is a certified professional midwife, lactation consultant, activist, and birth center founder in private practice. Developed by Laura & Morgan, The Cycle Book helps you find clarity, the right treatment, and real relief, so you can finally feel like yourself again. We’re in the midst of a hormonal health awakening. For too long, those navigating PCOS, perimenopause, endometriosis, PMDD, and other hormonal symptoms have been dismissed and left without real support. The Cycle Book’s effective and trusted approach helps decode your body’s patterns. Rooted in science and beautifully crafted, this 12-month undated workbook blends expert insight with clean, functional design. In this episode, you will hear: · What Cycle Tracking Really Means · Hormones And The Mind Body Connection · Personal Journeys Into Cycle Awareness · Endometriosis And Medical Dismissal · Tracking Desire And Sexual Arousal · Understanding Vaginal Dryness And Lubrication · Perimenopause And Hormonal Shifts · Tracking What Feels Good Not Just Pain · Using Data To Advocate In Healthcare · Why Analog Tracking Can Be Powerful Thank you to our sponsor Filthy Milfs! Your podcast lineup is about to get filthy. Get ready for a completely uncensored, outspoken, dirty-minded, and eye-opening look from the most adventurous milfs on the block, Ellen Ancui and Sophie Levine. They're filthy. They're milfy. And they’re waiting for you on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you catch your favorite podcasts. A Woman's Guide to Reviving Sex Drive Book an Appointment with Dr. Moali Spice Up Your Social Media Feed AND Your Sex Life: Follow Us On Instagram Podcast Produced by Vaudeo Productions Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to Episode 468 of the Sexology Podcast! Today I am excited to be joined by Dr. Alyssa Yee, who speaks to me about the realities of vulvar and vaginal pain, the challenges of diagnosis, and how partners can offer meaningful support. In this conversation, we discuss the wide range of painful symptoms many vulva owners experience, from burning and sharp stinging at the vestibule to deeper pelvic discomfort that can appear during or after sexual activity. Dr. Yee helps clarify how conditions such as vestibulodynia, hormonal disruptions, pelvic venous disorders, and endometriosis often go unrecognized or are dismissed in medical settings, leaving patients feeling isolated and unsure where to turn for help. Dr. Alyssa Yee is a Sexual Medicine Physician and Reconstructive Urologist who completed her clinical fellowship at San Diego Sexual Medicine in 2021-2022 under the mentorship of Dr. Irwin Goldstein. In her fellowship, she was awarded the SMSNA Foundation Research grant to investigate the pathophysiology of neuroproliferative vestibulodynia–a painful sexual condition of the vulva. Drawing from her research, Dr. Yee innovated the first sub-epithelial complete vestibulectomy surgery, allowing for decreased blood loss and post-operative pain with excellent response. In this episode, you will hear: · Understanding Vulvar And Vaginal Pain · Why Pain During Sex Is Often Normalized · Common Symptoms Of Vestibulodynia · How Hormones Influence Genital Pain · Inflammation And Nerve Related Causes · Endometriosis Symptoms And Misdiagnosis · Why Patients Feel Gaslighted In Medical Settings · How Partners Can Offer Support And Validation · Effective Treatment Options And Hormonal Therapies · Resources For Finding Knowledgeable Providers Thank you to our sponsor Filthy Milfs! Your podcast lineup is about to get filthy. Get ready for a completely uncensored, outspoken, dirty-minded, and eye-opening look from the most adventurous milfs on the block, Ellen Ancui and Sophie Levine. They're filthy. They're milfy. And they’re waiting for you on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you catch your favorite podcasts. Book an Appointment with Dr. Moali Spice Up Your Social Media Feed AND Your Sex Life: Follow Us On Instagram Podcast Produced by Vaudeo Productions Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy