307: Issues that impact women's sexual desire with Dr. Jenn Kennedy

In this episode of Better Sex, host Jessa Zimmerman welcomes Dr. Jenn Kennedy to discuss the specific challenges women face around sexual desire. Dr. Kennedy shares her passion for women's health and the importance of inclusive research. Key topics include body image concerns, the impact of cultural messages, attachment theory, the role of EMDR in overcoming sexual trauma, and strategies for women to advocate for their own pleasure. The discussion also highlights the significance of relationship dynamics, the influence of upbringing, and how societal expectations shape women's experiences with sexuality. Dr. Kennedy also introduces her group work with The Pleasure Circle as a means to support women in their sexual journey.

00:00 Introduction to Better Sex Podcast

00:46 Welcoming Dr. Jenn Kennedy

00:55 Challenges in Women's Sexual Desire

02:47 Body Image and Its Impact

06:48 The Journey to Self-Acceptance

10:13 Understanding EMDR Therapy

14:12 Overcoming Negative Beliefs

19:04 People Pleasing in the Bedroom

21:02 Understanding Women's Disconnect from Sexual Desire

21:29 Generational Differences in Sexual Attitudes

22:48 The Impact of Pain and Communication in Sexual Relationships

24:26 Strategies for Women to Advocate for Their Sexual Needs

27:49 Factors Influencing Women's Sexual Desire

29:42 Attachment Theory and Sexual Strategies

33:05 The Role of Pleasure and Self-Care in Sexual Satisfaction

38:19 Exploring Female Sexuality in Group Settings

39:39 Resources and Final Thoughts

Want to work with me? Visit https://www.intimacywithease.com

Bio:

Dr. Jenn Kennedy is a clinical sexologist and licensed marriage and family therapist based in Santa Barbara. She specializes in the areas of relationships, sex, addiction and LGBT. In 2023, Dr. Jenn launched The Pleasure Project, which is dedicated to helping us all have a better sex life. Through this venture, she hosts a podcast called Pleasure Project: Sex & Relationships and offers small group intensives for women and couples. She recently launched a self-guided course and is coming out with a Pleasure Circle workbook in 2025.

Dr. Jenn has been quoted in Redbook, Reader’s Digest, Forbes Health, DailyOm, Shondaland, Parade, Allure, Yahoo!life and others. She is often tapped to discuss intimacy and sexuality for therapists and physicians.

Podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jenn-kennedy

You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjennkennedy

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennkennedy

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RivieraTherapy

Want to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water.

More info and resources:

Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcast

Secret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcast

How Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.com

The Course – https://www.intimacywithease.com

The Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.com

Podcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.com

Access the Free webinar: Intimacy Made Easy: 3 Secrets to Bridging Libido Differences: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass