Bonus: Reclaiming Your Sexuality and Becoming (Un)Subjectified - with Suzannah Weiss
Sep 28, 2024
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Suzannah Weiss, a prominent Los Angeles-based writer and sexologist, explores themes of sexual empowerment in this insightful discussion. She shares her journey toward reclaiming sexuality, focusing particularly on women's experiences overcoming societal challenges. The conversation delves into the double standards of sexual perception, advocating for a more balanced view of male and female bodies. Weiss also emphasizes redefining dating dynamics, encouraging women to take the initiative, and promotes her book, 'Subjectified,' as a guide for fostering deeper connections.
Suzannah Weiss emphasizes that women should reclaim their identity as sexual subjects to enhance their sexual empowerment and agency.
The conversation highlights the necessity of focusing on genuine desire over mere consent to promote active engagement in sexual interactions.
Deep dives
Empowerment through Subjectification
The episode emphasizes the importance of women reclaiming their identity as sexual subjects rather than being mere objects of desire. Susanna Weiss, the guest expert, advocates for a shift in perspective, highlighting that societal definitions of womanhood often confine women to roles that stifle their sexual agency. By embracing the concept of 'subjectification,' women can acknowledge their desires and preferences, leading to more fulfilling sexual experiences. Weiss shares that her personal journey through struggles like an eating disorder ultimately fueled her mission to empower others to embrace their own sexual identities.
The Role of Desire vs. Consent
Weiss discusses the significance of focusing on desire rather than merely seeking consent in sexual interactions. The distinction she makes is crucial; where consent can often imply acquiescence, desire promotes an active engagement of personal wants and preferences. This reframing encourages women to feel empowered to express what they want, rather than just agreeing to what others propose. For instance, Weiss shares practical tools, such as asking oneself if an invitation feels like a 'hell yes,' as a method to prioritize genuine desire over obligation.
Challenging Gender Norms in Sexual Expression
The conversation also addresses the double standards prevalent in societal attitudes towards gender and sexuality. Weiss points out how traditional expectations often place women as passive participants while men are seen as the active pursuers in relationships. By challenging these stereotypes, women are encouraged to take the initiative in expressing their desires and interests, potentially leading to healthier interactions. This shift not only empowers women but also alleviates pressure on men, facilitating more mutual engagement in romantic pursuits.
Suzannah Weiss is a writer and sexologist based in Los Angeles. She is the author of Subjectified: Becoming a Sexual Subject, which describes her search for sexual empowerment and her vision for a world where women are subjects, not just objects, of desire. She has written over 8800 articles, which have appeared in publications such as The New York Times and The Washington Post. As a sex educator certified by the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists, Suzannah has taught courses and given talks on topics including consent, orgasms, childbirth, non-monogamy, and neurodiversity. She is regularly quoted as an expert in publications like Cosmopolitan and Men's Health and also works as a sex/love coach, birth doula, and sexual assault counselor. She holds a Master of Professional Studies in Sexual Health from the University of Minnesota, a Bachelor of Science in Cognitive Neuroscience from Brown University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Gender & Sexuality Studies and Modern Culture & Media from Brown University. To learn more go to https://suzannahweiss.com
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