Nicole Hardy, author of "Confessions of a Latter-day Virgin," shares her insights on embracing sexuality later in life after leaving the Mormon Church. She explores Elizabeth's journey as a 43-year-old seeking intimacy, navigating the emotional complexities of celibacy and societal pressures. The conversation also touches on the significance of self-discovery and overcoming religious trauma, offering advice on building healthy connections and reclaiming power. Their candid discussion promotes empowerment, curiosity, and the joy of embracing intimacy.
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Elizabeth's Story
Elizabeth, 43, recently left the Mormon Church after a lifelong membership.
She now wants to explore her sexuality for the first time and seeks guidance.
insights INSIGHT
Mormon Church and Sexuality
The Mormon Church emphasizes marriage and expects celibacy outside of it.
This can create feelings of being stunted, especially for those who remain unmarried.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Suppressed Sexuality
Elizabeth describes the Church's emphasis on obedience and distrusting oneself.
This made her suppress her sexual urges, as they conflicted with Church teachings.
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The Science of Getting from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be
Katy Milkman
In this ground-breaking book, Katy Milkman reveals a proven path to help readers move from where they are to where they want to be. Drawing on her original research and the work of her world-renowned scientific collaborators, Milkman shares strategic methods for identifying and overcoming common barriers to change, such as impulsivity, procrastination, and forgetfulness. The book offers innovative approaches like 'temptation bundling,' using timely reminders, and creating 'set-it-and-forget-it systems' to make change more achievable. It emphasizes the importance of tailoring solutions to specific roadblocks and using science to stack the deck in favor of successful change.
When Religion Hurts You
When Religion Hurts You
Laura Anderson
Confessions of a Latter-Day Virgin
Confessions of a Latter-Day Virgin
Nicole Hardy
For most of her life, Elizabeth was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which forbids having sex outside of marriage. But she recently left the Mormon faith, and now she’s ready to have sex for the first time—at age 43. On this episode of How To!, Courtney Martin brings on Nicole Hardy, author of Confessions of a Latter-Day Virginto offer Elizabeth advice that’s relevant to anyone who’s ready to tap into their sexuality later in life—but unsure how (or where! or with whom!) to start.
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How To! 