Language of Love with Dr. Laura Berman

For far too long, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) have carried a heavy weight of stigma—whispers behind closed doors, silent fears, and the crushing anxiety of disclosure and the rejection that might follow. Many people would rather avoid dating altogether than face the possibility of judgment. But should a diagnosis really hold that much power over your life? Should it define your worth, your relationships, or your future?In this Language of Love Session, I’m responding to an email from Claire, a listener who recently received a herpes diagnosis. Claire’s feeling overwhelmed by shame and fear about her dating future. She’s worried she’ll never find love and is unsure how to share her diagnosis with potential partners.Here’s the truth: A herpes diagnosis does NOT make you undateable. In fact, 1 in 4 people have herpes, and 80% of them don’t even know it! The stigma around STDs, especially herpes, creates unnecessary shame. But at the end of the day, herpes is just a manageable skin condition—one that can be effectively treated with medication.In this episode, I dive into: The prevalence of herpes and why the stigma needs to end Why herpes doesn’t define you: You are so much more than your diagnosis, and the right person will see that. How to manage outbreaks and reduce transmission risk The best way to disclose your diagnosis to a potential partner If you need any help or advice, you can email me at languageoflovepod@gmail.com and you can also get a chance to join me on Zoom for a one-on-one session. I’d love to hear from you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you beginning to feel like your partner’s phone is becoming the third wheel in your relationship? Are you tired of being "phubbed"—that unsettling mix of phone and snubbed? You’re not alone. In this Language of Love Bite, we explore how to reclaim connection in your relationship without starting World War III.In this episode, I delve into the science of disconnection, revealing how our phones trigger dopamine responses similar to addictive substances. But this isn’t just about the tech—it’s about finding solutions that strengthen intimacy and foster connection.Discover small but powerful ways to unplug, reconnect, and bring joy back to your shared moments. Plus, I share some proven practical tips and daily rituals that foster intimacy.Here’s what I cover: Understanding the neurological impact of constant screen use. How to identify tech’s impact on your relationship, from decreased eye contact to “parallel play.” Simple, actionable strategies to combat tech addiction If you’re ready to create meaningful change in your relationship, tune in to this episode of The Language of Love. And don’t forget to check out my free course, 7 Days to Better Sex, and  Quantum Sex, which offers tools to enhance intimacy and connection even further.Subscribe to the podcast and start reclaiming the love you deserve. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if our worst moments are actually an opportunity to shift into a deeper connection with ourselves and everyone and everything around us? In this episode of Language of Love Conversation, I sit down with Jacob Cooper—author, therapist, and someone who’s experienced a life-changing near-death experience (NDE)—to explore how we can maintain this connection beyond the physical. Jacob’s story is incredible. At just three years old, he experienced an NDE due to whooping cough (Pertussis), and it completely reshaped his understanding of life, death, and the eternal nature of the soul.Through his experience, Jacob has come to realize that our loved ones who have crossed over are still with us—watching over us, guiding us, and helping us grow. There’s no true separation between us and them; the bond remains, even in the afterlife. Jacob shares how, through surrender, we can tap into the spiritual wisdom and love that our departed loved ones send us from beyond.In this conversation, Jacob also explores the role of past lives, the deep soul contracts we share with those we love, and how we can recognize and nurture relationships with our soul family—both here and on the other side. We also dive into the importance of living in the present moment, remembering that we’re eternally connected to love.Here’s a preview of what we talk about: How Jacob’s NDE at three years old opened his eyes to the eternal nature of the soul How our departed loved ones continue to watch over us and send us messages from the other side The role of past lives and soul contracts in our current relationships How to feel the presence of your soul family and deepen these connections Why embracing the present moment helps us align with the boundless love of spirit If you’re looking for more on this journey, Jacob’s books The Wisdom of Jacob’s Ladder and Life After Breath take you on a powerful exploration of his NDE and the wisdom he uncovered. It’s a beautiful reminder that death isn’t the end, and our loved ones are never really gone.For more guidance and resources on your own spiritual journey, be sure to visit my website—it’s packed with tools to help you stay connected to the love and wisdom of the other side! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Did you know that most arguments in relationships aren’t really about what they seem? That fight about the trash? The dishes? Being late? It’s rarely about the actual issue—it’s about something deeper. Feeling unheard. Feeling unappreciated. Feeling disconnected.In this Language of Love Session, we continue to follow Brian and Stacey as they navigate the challenges of trust, intimacy, and emotional connection. Brian feels like he’s doing everything right—planning dates, showing affection, making an effort—yet the intimacy still isn’t there. Stacey, meanwhile, struggles with past trauma and the weight of expectation, making it hard for her to fully engage. We confront the hidden emotions and unspoken fears that keep them stuck in the same frustrating cycle.What’s inside this episode? How past traumas influence trust and intimacy in relationships Why taking sex off the table can help rebuild emotional and physical connection The importance of non-sexual touch in fostering intimacy and trust How to navigate the "Drama Triangle" (victim, villain, hero) in conflicts Practical strategies for shifting out of conflict and into connection The role of appreciation and physical affection in healing relationships How to create a culture of safety and understanding in your partnership Don't forget—love is a journey best taken together. Whether you're healing from past traumas, deepening intimacy, or improving communication, every step forward is one you don’t have to take alone. Explore powerful tools like EMDR and the Drama Triangle for trauma recovery, or dive into transformative resources like Conscious Loving by Gay and Katie Hendricks. Want to go even deeper? Read my book Quantum Love. You can even check out my Quantum Sex Course.Have questions or stories to share? Email me at languageoflovepod@gmail.com, and don’t forget to share this episode—because love is a journey we take together. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The headlines are buzzing, and let’s face it, Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater’s story feels like a drama we didn’t ask for. Relationships in the spotlight are hard enough, but throw an affair into the mix, and it’s like watching a reality show unfold in real time. And then there’s Ethan’s wife—cue her powerful essay in The Cut, where, as a therapist, she lays bare the raw pain of betrayal and the chaos of their breakup.But let’s step back for a moment. This isn’t just celebrity gossip. Infidelity doesn’t care if you’re famous—it can happen to anyone. The real question is: how do you safeguard your relationship from falling into the same pitfalls?In this episode of The Language of Love Bite, I dive into the tough but necessary conversation about “affair-proofing” your relationship. Inspired by the recent headlines, we explore what it takes to build trust, connection, and intimacy in any partnership—whether you’re under the spotlight or not.Here’s what we cover: Why infidelity is often about disconnection, not bad intentions. Emotional check-ins and the simple questions that keep your bond strong. How intentional intimacy can reignite the spark. Why protecting your relationship starts with clear boundaries. The “Love Audit,” a weekly ritual to rebuild and maintain intimacy. And don’t miss the golden rule I share that every couple should follow to affair proof their relationship!  If you want to strengthen your bond or avoid future bumps in the road, this episode is full of practical tips to help your love grow. And don’t forget to check out my YouTube videos for more ideas on keeping that spark alive in your relationship! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if grief isn’t just about loss, but about staying connected to those who’ve passed on?Have you ever wondered if your loved ones are still with you after they’ve gone? What if there’s a way to feel their presence and find healing through that connection? Grief can be a painful, overwhelming journey, but it’s also one that can offer profound moments of connection across the divide between this world and the next. So, how do we bridge that gap and keep the bond alive?In this heart-to-heart conversation on The Language of Love, I’m joined by Meghan Riordan Jarvis, a trauma therapist and author of Can Anyone Tell Me?. Meghan shares her own transformative experiences with grief, including the loss of her parents, and how these personal moments of sorrow shaped her work as a therapist. Together, we dive into grief from a holistic perspective—exploring how it affects us emotionally, physically, and spiritually, and how we can stay connected to those we’ve lost, even beyond this life.In this episode, we cover: Grief and Afterlife Connections: What if grief doesn’t have to mean letting go? Spiritual Practices for Healing The role of trauma therapy in processing grief The impact of unresolved childhood trauma on adult grief Differences in grieving processes based on the nature of loss Why does grief feel so heavy, both emotionally and physically?  How do we build resilience when grief feels overwhelming? Why is it so important to talk about grief openly?  Remember, healing through grief is a personal journey, and there’s always more to learn and explore. For deeper insights and ongoing support, be sure to connect with Meghan Riordan Jarvis on her website and LinkedIn, where she shares more about her work and offers valuable resources for navigating grief and trauma. If you're looking for guidance, Megan's book Can Anyone Tell Me? answers some of the most frequently asked questions about grief.Also, if you’re looking for more guidance on your own grief journey, check out my Good Grief Course on my website. It’s designed to help you process loss and find healing through practical steps and spiritual connection.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What do you do when your child accidentally walks in on you and your spouse during an intimate moment? It’s one of those unexpected situations that can leave you feeling flustered and unsure of how to respond.In this Language of Love session, a listener, Kim, reaches out to me after experiencing one of those “mortifying parenting moments” when her 8-year-old son walked in on her and her husband during an intimate moment. Kim’s reaction? Shock, followed by a quick hug for her son and an attempt to smooth things over. But now she’s left wondering: Should she bring it up? Pretend it didn’t happen? Or use this as an opportunity to talk about the “birds and the bees”?During this session, we explore how these awkward moments can actually become teachable ones. While it’s natural to feel embarrassed, it’s also an opportunity to model healthy relationships, intimacy, and communication. After all, parents are their kids’ first and most important teachers about love, boundaries, and values.Here is what we tackle: The importance of modeling love and intimacy for your children. How to talk to kids about puberty and the basics of reproduction in a way that’s age-appropriate. Using family values as a foundation for these conversations. Why these “awkward” moments can set the stage for lifelong healthy attitudes about sex and relationships. The critical role of ongoing, open communication with your kids. The confidence and security kids gain when they feel informed about their bodies and emotions. Remember, it’s not about having “the talk” once and checking it off the list—it’s about fostering a conversation that evolves as your child grows. So the next time a parenting curveball comes your way, don’t panic—lean into it. You’ve got this!If you have a question or a situation you’d like me to address, you can email me at LanguageofLovePod@gmail.com or visit LanguageofLovePod.com to join me on the show. See you next time! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let’s be honest—everyone wants to last longer in bed, right? So, what’s the secret to going the distance and keeping your partner satisfied? Can you really improve your stamina, or is it all just wishful thinking? The truth is, there are some simple tips and tricks you can apply to not just last longer, but also make sure your partner is definitely getting the pleasure she’s looking for. Ready to level up in the bedroom?In this Language of Love Bite, we're tackling a topic that’s on the mind of many men but not often discussed openly: how to last longer in bed. Whether you're trying to improve your stamina or just looking to enhance your performance, this episode provides practical tips and techniques to help you last longer, satisfy your partner, and close that orgasm gap.You will discover:  How to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles Different tips and tricks for better control and longer duration in bed Use of desensitizing products for enhanced performance Benefits of masturbation before intercourse Importance of maintaining a healthy weight for sexual performance Alternative intimacy techniques to reduce pressure And if you find yourself inspired by this episode, be sure to check out my Quantum Sex course on my website. It's packed with even more tips, techniques, and insights to help you take your sexual performance and intimacy to the next level. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Losing a child is an unimaginable pain—one that breaks you open in ways you never thought possible. When I lost my son Sammy, my world shifted in an instant. Sammy was my light, my joy, and his absence left a void that words can’t capture. Yet, in the depths of that sorrow, I began to uncover something profound: a path not just to survive the loss but to carry his love forward. Sammy’s spirit guides me, teaching me that even through the greatest heartbreak, there’s room for connection, growth, and purpose.In this episode of The Language of Love Conversation, I sit down with Elizabeth Boisson, a remarkable woman who turned her grief into a global movement. Elizabeth, the co-founder of Helping Parents Heal, shares her deeply personal journey of losing two of her children and how she found healing by helping others navigate similar heartbreak.We explore:  The powerful ways our loved ones in spirit remain connected to us  How our spiritual connections with our dearly departed loved ones can be a source of comfort and strength Methods and practices for staying connected with loved ones in spirit, including meditation and writing Insights into shared death experiences and soul plans The challenges of discussing grief and finding supportive connection I hope this conversation moves you as deeply as it moved me. Don’t forget to connect with Elizabeth on LinkedIn for more wisdom and insights into transforming grief into hope.If you’re navigating the difficult journey of loss, I invite you to explore my Good Grief course, available on my website, where you’ll find tools and guidance to support your healing. Additionally, Helping Parents Heal offers an incredible community and resources for those seeking comfort and connection. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Language of Love Session, I continue to guide Bryan and Stacey through the ups and downs of their relationship, tackling key issues like communication, trust, and appreciation. If you haven’t tuned into their journey yet, be sure to catch up on our previous sessions—it’s a story you won’t want to miss.This week, things got a little bumpy. Both Bryan and Stacey found themselves in a tug-of-war, each trying to be "right," which only created more distance between them. As we dive deeper, we uncover how past traumas are still influencing their relationship today. The good news? Both Bryan and Stacey are committed to showing more appreciation for one another, hoping to create a more balanced and loving partnership.Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: The ways past trauma impacts trust issues Why showing appreciation is a game-changer for deeper connection How each partner’s unconscious energetic state  shapes the relationship How to balance between masculine and feminine energy in love Simple ways to express gratitude and acknowledgment Real-life examples of supporting and standing up for your partner How to build a culture of appreciation for long-term growth Remember healing and connection are journeys best taken with the right tools. Ready to deepen intimacy? Check out my Quantum Sex Course or read Conscious Loving by Gay and Katie Hendricks. For trauma recovery, tools like EMDR and the Drama Triangle can help. Got questions or stories? Email me at languageoflovepod@gmail.com, and don’t forget to share this episode—because love is a journey we take together. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices