
LOVERS by shan
Lovers by Shan is an education-first space where listeners come to better understand their own intimate lives through the life lessons and expertise of others. Shan’s mission is to empower everyone to be their own intimacy expert in the bedroom and beyond by treating guests of the podcast as educators in their own right.
Past guest include Kelly Rowland who taught us about being a sensualist. Becky G who shared the importance of healthy love in an unhealthy body. Kerry Washington who warned about the dangers of keeping secrets. Kamie Crawford who taught us about the joys of breaking up. Jesse Reyez who reminded us that it's alright to admit you're the one who let a good one get away.
When we paused in 2023 we had 5.1 million listeners and 8 million YouTube views. Excited to see how many lives we can impact in 2025 with our fresh look and approach.
Latest episodes

Apr 23, 2025 • 41min
S2 Ep116: Don't Waste Your Time With People Like This!
This is a rare solo episode with just Shan behind the mic—no guests, no distractions. Just her, answering some of your most pressing, unfiltered questions. From personal reflections to deeper dives on topics you’ve been dying to hear her take on, this one’s intimate, insightful, and straight from the heart
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Lovers Community
If you’re interested in joining the Lovers community, click here to join the waitlist:
https://www.loversbyshan.com/community

Apr 16, 2025 • 54min
S2 Ep115: Soul Ties and Seeking Sacred Love: B. Simone on Chastity and Demisexuality
Are you ready to dive deep into the complexities of love, faith, and identity? In this thought-provoking episode, Shan Boodram sits down with B. Simone to discuss the transformative journey of embracing chastity, understanding soul ties, and exploring the nuances of identity and connection.
While B. Simone does not identify as demisexual, Shan suggests the possibility during their candid conversation, sparking an insightful dialogue about emotional intimacy and sexual attraction. This episode unpacks key topics like:
✨ What You’ll Learn:
Demisexuality: A sexual orientation where someone experiences sexual attraction only after forming a strong emotional bond.
Soul Ties: A deep, often spiritual connection that binds two people, sometimes through shared experiences or intimacy.
Chastity: A lifestyle or mindset of aligning one’s sexual behavior and thoughts with personal, moral, or spiritual values, which may or may not involve abstinence.
Together, Shan and B. Simone explore how devotion to faith, self-love, and personal growth can shape intimate relationships and redefine what it means to truly connect with others.
Whether you’re curious about demisexuality, seeking clarity on soul ties, or inspired by the intersection of spirituality and sexuality, this episode is packed with insights that will leave you reflecting on your own path to sacred love.
🎧 Tune in now, and don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes on love, relationships, and self-discovery!
Thank You B. Simone
https://www.instagram.com/thebsimone
Let’s Try This Again: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz67j2koC3urUkQirbvueCA
https://www.officialbsimone.com/
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Lovers Community
If you’re interested in joining the Lovers community, click here to join the waitlist:
https://www.loversbyshan.com/community
Thanks Arya for sponsoring this episode:
Arya is a service for couples that helps them break their sexual routine with the help of an intimacy concierge that serves up curated sexy scenes monthly to sign up or learn more go to
http://arya.fyi/shan

Apr 9, 2025 • 47min
S2 Ep114: What Happens to Old Love When You Have New Intimate Needs? Ft Karamo Brown
Does a change in your intimate needs have to mean a change of heart? In this episode of Lovers Shan Boodram sits down with Karamo Brown, TV personality (Karama and Queer Eye), author, and culture expert, for a raw and revealing conversation about intimacy and growth. Karamo opens up about how his intimate needs evolved through his 20s, 30s, and 40s—both emotionally and in the bedroom. He shares how these changes led to the end of a past relationship, where his partner couldn’t accept his evolving needs without taking it personally.
Now, in a thriving new relationship, Karamo reveals how he’s learned to bring his partner along as he navigates these changes, fostering a deeper connection and understanding. This episode is packed with wisdom on embracing growth, improving communication, and honoring your needs without guilt.
Karamo Brown, Lovers and Friends Podcast, Lovers by Shan, Shan Boodram, intimacy in relationships, emotional intimacy, evolving needs in relationships, intimacy advice, relationship communication, breakups and growth, thriving relationships, intimacy in 20s 30s 40s, LGBTQ relationships, personal growth, gay relationship advice, sex and relationships
Thank You Karamo Brown
https://www.instagram.com/karamo
Learn About His TV Show: https://karamoshow.com/
Get His New Children’s Book: https://zandoprojects.com/books/i-am-okay-to-feel/
Thanks Arya for sponsoring this episode:
Arya is a service for couples that helps them break their sexual routine with the help of an intimacy concierge that serves up curated sexy scenes monthly to sign up or learn more go to
http://arya.fyi/shan
Join My Mailing List
https://www.loversbyshan.com/newsletter
Lovers Community
If you’re interested in joining the Lovers community, click here to join the waitlist:
https://www.loversbyshan.com/community

Apr 2, 2025 • 44min
S2 Ep113: Partnership Over Pride: Khadeen and Devale Ellis on Defying Gender to Save Their Marriage
Are You Loyal to Your Gender or Your Relationship? Shan Boodram sits down with Khadeen and Devale Ellis, the dynamic married duo known for their raw honesty, humor, and insights on love and relationships. Together, they share how they saved their marriage by breaking free from traditional gender roles and prioritizing their partnership above all else.
Khadeen and Devale Ellis are actors, content creators, and authors of the best-selling book We Over Me: The Counterintuitive Approach to Getting Everything You Want From Your Relationship. Known for their hit podcast Dead Ass and their viral YouTube channel chronicling their family life, the Ellises have inspired millions with their relatable and unfiltered take on marriage, parenting, and personal growth. In this episode the couple talks about the controversy over Devale’s vasectomy, being called a simp, making a plate for your husband, and putting your career on pause so the family can win.
Thank You Khadeen and Devale
https://www.instagram.com/khadeeniam/
https://www.instagram.com/iamdevale/
Read or listen to their book: https://www.amazon.com/We-Over-Counterintuitive-Everything-Relationship/dp/0593577604
Thanks Arya for sponsoring this episode:
Arya is a service for couples that helps them break their sexual routine with the help of an intimacy concierge that serves up curated sexy scenes monthly to sign up or learn more go to
http://arya.fyi/shan

Mar 26, 2025 • 45min
S2 Ep112: They Liked You More When You Had No Boundaries ft Jessie Reyez
Jessie Reyez joins the podcast to celebrate her new album, Paid in Memories and to dive into the complexities of boundaries and self-respect. Together, we unpack what it means to be labeled a "villain" (by both yourself and others) for setting boundaries and standing firm in your self-worth. Jessie shares her personal journey of choosing to stay single rather than settling for less in love, reflecting on the regret of taking too much accountability in her past relationship, and embracing her love language—having her alone time respected.
We also talk about her upcoming album, Paid in Memories, which promises to be a raw and powerful exploration of love, loss, and acceptance. Don’t miss this candid and inspiring conversation that’s all about choosing yourself, even when it’s hard because self-respect is never up for negotiation.
Thank You Bumble
This episode of Lovers and Friends is presented by Bumble, where dating your way is always the right way. There’s a world where you can find love that works for you. So date now, on Bumble.
Thank You Jessie Reyez
https://www.instagram.com/jessiereyez/
Listen to Jessie’s latest music
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Lovers Community
If you’re interested in joining the Lovers community, click here to join the waitlist:
https://www.loversbyshan.com/community

Mar 19, 2025 • 42min
S2 Ep111: For Women Terrified of Being 30+, Single, and Career-Driven featuring @Deepica
In this episode of Lovers and Friends, Shan Boodram sits down with Deepica Mutyala, founder of Live Tinted and a trailblazing entrepreneur, for an honest and empowering conversation about being single, thriving in your 30s, and preparing for the love and family you deserve. Deepica shares her journey of building a successful career while staying true to her dreams of finding the right partner and creating a family. Together, Shan and Deepica discuss the challenges of dating when you’re successful, the importance of not settling, and how to embrace being single as a time to grow, reflect, and prepare for the life you truly want. Whether you’re navigating the dating world, focusing on self-growth, or manifesting your dream relationship, this episode will leave you inspired and ready to take on love and life with intention.
Thank you Bumble
This episode of Lovers is presented by Bumble who encourages you to date your way. There is a world where you can date exactly who you want, however you want. So date now, on Bumble.
Thank you Deepica
https://www.instagram.com/deepica
Get Live Tinted
https://www.livetinted.com/
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Lovers Community
If you’re interested in joining the Lovers community click here to join the waitlist
https://www.loversbyshan.com/community

Mar 12, 2025 • 52min
S2 Ep110: Lena Waithe: Don’t Have Sex With Someone If You Both Can’t Do THIS
Lena Waithe on Cuddling Over Climaxing
In this episode of Lovers and Friends, Shan Boodram sits down with Emmy-winning writer, producer, and actress Lena Waithe (Queen & Slim, Master of None, The Chi) for an eye-opening conversation about intimacy, love, and meaningful connections. Lena shares why you should never have sex with someone unless you can imagine a positive aftermath for both of you. She dives into how cuddling can create a deeper emotional bond than sex, especially when the future of a relationship feels uncertain. Lena also opens up about the power of plutonic relationships, revealing why some of her most impactful connections today are non-romantic. With all of the rumors about her love life, Lena sets the record straight and shares what truly matters to her in building authentic connections. This episode will challenge your views on love, intimacy, and boundaries in ways you won’t want to miss!
Thank you Bumble
This episode of Lovers is presented by Bumble who encourages you to date your way. There is a world where you can date exactly who you want, however you want. So date now, on Bumble.
Thank you Lena
https://www.instagram.com/lenawaithe/
Legacy Talk Podcast
https://lemonada.lnk.to/LegacyTalkWithLenaWaithehs?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZR0rgZOhMXnR_1HkQjiKfKa5_UUPHcXYlKFCmzjhKgXdje2qDlp8lbhmg_aem_wULmegwSQB8ct8zEmMkQfg
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Lovers Community
If you’re interested in joining the Lovers community click here to join the waitlist
https://www.loversbyshan.com/community

Mar 5, 2025 • 45min
S2 Ep109: Inner Child Meets Modern Parent: Tika Sumpter on Doing Sex Ed Different
What kind of relationship with sex do we want young people to have? In this episode myself and Tika Sumpter, known for her multifaceted career as an actor and creator, explore this question as parents and as people reparenting themselves. In this episode Tika shares her compelling personal story that shaped her approach to intimacy and education. Growing up in a Christian household, discussions about sex were often avoided or framed solely around negative consequences. This instilled fear and confusion about her own sexuality during her teenage years. In her twenties, Tika found herself navigating relationships without a clear understanding of her body or pleasure, often pretending to have a sexual IQ she hadn't yet developed. Therapy became a turning point, helping her reconnect with herself and embrace her sexual identity.
Now, as a mother, Tika is determined to break this cycle for her daughter. On this episode, she opens up about her journey and shares how she is redefining sex and intimacy education in her household. Her goal is to raise her daughter to be a sexually and relationally competent individual, equipped with the tools and knowledge Tika wishes she had earlier in life.
Tika is best known for her work on screen but did you know she also makes children’s content? She is the creator of The Adventures of Curious Cove, a podcast anchored by the beloved series Ella the Curious. This project reflects her passion for storytelling and education, making complex topics accessible and engaging for young audiences.
Thank you Bumble
This episode of Lovers is presented by Bumble who encourages you to date your way. There is a world where you can date exactly who you want, however you want. So date now, on Bumble.
Thank you Tika
Preorder Tika's upcoming book!
https://tinyurl.com/I-Got-It-From-My-Mama-Book
https://www.instagram.com/tikasumpter
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/adventures-of-curiosity-cove/id1760587303
Age by Age Sexual Development Guide
As per Tika’s request…
loversbyshan.com/quizzes
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Lovers Community
If you’re interested in joining the Lovers community click here to join the waitlist
https://www.loversbyshan.com/community

Feb 26, 2025 • 52min
S2 Ep108: Singer Mario: Mother Wounds, Healing His Feminine, and Apologizing to Women
In this deeply personal episode presented by Bumble, singer Mario opens up about the profound impact of unresolved trauma stemming from his relationship with his mother. He shares how this pain shaped his early behavior towards women, leading to manipulation and broken connections. Mario takes us on his journey of self-reflection, healing, and ultimately embracing his inner feminine energy—a process that not only reshaped his relationships but also elevated his personal growth and artistry.
As Mario gets real about accountability, self-love, and the power of healing, he also introduces us to his latest album, "Glad You Came"—a soulful and vulnerable collection of music inspired by his life experiences and growth. Tune in for an honest, thought-provoking conversation that dives into the intersections of trauma, love, and creativity.
Don't miss this inspiring episode and be sure to check out Mario's new album, "Glad You Came," now streaming on all platforms!
Thank you Bumble
This episode of Lovers is presented by Bumble who encourages you to date your way. There is a world where you can date exactly who you want, however you want. So date now, on Bumble.
Thank you Mario
Instagram.com/marioworldwide
Glad You Came, streaming everywhere you listen to music
Thank you Arya
A couples subscription service that helps you spice it up with the help of an intimacy concierge, an app and products delivered to your door
https://www.arya.fyi/shan
My class on MasterClass
If you’d like tangible tips for improving your relationship with sex AND your sex appeal. I HIGHLY recommend checking out my class on MasterClass the Art of Sex Appeal
masterclass.com/shan
Join My Mailing List
https://www.loversbyshan.com/newsletter
Lovers Community
If you’re interested in joining the Lovers community click here to join the waitlist
https://www.loversbyshan.com/community

Feb 21, 2025 • 39min
S1 Ep107: Forget What You Thought You Knew About Good Sex and Start HERE
Beyond Pleasure: Three Keys to Truly Fulfilling Sex
Sex is at the intersection of life and humanity. For the majority of us, it’s how we got here and for parents, it’s how we will continue on after we are gone. We often hear the term “better” sex, which begs two questions: what does that mean? And, why is the sex we are currently having not good enough?
In this episode we will define the goal of sex - regardless of the stage of the relationship and we will also discuss what prevents us from having sex that lives up to our desired potential. I’m going to take you on a journey as we explore the three sexual freedoms. Starting with discussing the power of freedom to, which I think describes the stage that myself and my husband/ the creative director of this podcast, Jared Brady are in. Then freedom from, which I discuss with my friends Yancy and Premika Leo. Finally we will talk about the Freedom not to, which I explore with my Lovers Community.
Thank you Bumble
This episode of Lovers is presented by Bumble who encourages you to date your way. There is a world where you can date exactly who you want, however you want. So date now, on Bumble.
My class on MasterClass
If you’d like tangible tips for improving your relationship with sex AND your sex appeal. I HIGHLY recommend checking out my class on MasterClass the Art of Sex Appeal
masterclass.com/shan
Better Sex Quiz
If you want to know which freedom you should focus on in order to improve your sex life today, try this quiz
https://www.loversbyshan.com/resource/bettersex
Commitment Structure Quiz
If Shan and Jared’s conversation around open relationships intrigued you, take this quiz to identify your commitment structure
https://www.loversbyshan.com/resource/commitment
Join My Mailing List
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Lovers Community
If you’re interested in joining the Lovers community click here to join the waitlist
https://www.loversbyshan.com/community
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