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

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 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 

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/ 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

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 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

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 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

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

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 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

Kerry Washington, you read right. Award-winning actor, director, producer, and activist Kerry Washington. In support of the second season of her hit show UnPrisoned on Hulu Onyx Collective, Kerry stopped by Lovers and Friends to discuss what she learned from Paige, how learning that her biological father was a sperm donor changed her family for the better, therapy with her parents and husband, how real parents should get with their kids, her parenting philosophy and more. If you loved Kerry Washington in any of her classics, like Scandal or Django Unchained OR if you read her book Thicker Than Water, you will LOVE UnPrisoned and furthermore, this raw interview on the power and potential that comes when you heal the family by not being afraid to hurt or disappoint one another. Of course I couldn’t have Kerry Washington stop by and NOT talk about sex, reproductive rights and pole dancing - so expect that too :). ALSO relationship expert and UnPrisoned creator Tracy McMillan stops by to discuss the power of intuition. Watch the trailer to UnPrisoned https://youtu.be/HIn14DY9eFA?si=2VxtEkm6V6_UT3kx Watch UnPrisoned https://www.hulu.com/series/unprisoned-5b48cecb-15b5-4e06-b475-f2ac5a64bd24 Follow Kerry Washington  https://www.instagram.com/kerrywashington/?hl=en Watch her YouTube Show Street You Grew Up On https://youtu.be/Omh270yZLbU?si=Fof717hAfW9Fz8iA Read her Memoir Thicker than Water https://www.amazon.com/Thicker-than-Water-Kerry-Washington/dp/0316497398 Follow Tracy McMillan https://www.instagram.com/tracymcmillan/ Thanks to Our Sponsors  Hulu Onyx Collective Follow Shan http://instagram.com/shanboodram

Kelly Rowland, you read right. This is a CAN NOT MISS, special release Lovers and Friends episode with Shan Boodram AND it is best experienced after you watch Mea Culpa now streaming worldwide on Netflix. In this intimate, first-of-its-kind conversation Kelly Rowland shares how she went from a sexually repressed upbringing to living up to her pleasure potential as a sensualist, plus how her sexual awakening gave her the confidence to play Mea in Mea Clupa alongside Trevante Rhodes, whom she shares very STEAMY sex scenes with on screen. Kelly also discusses her feelings on divorce, kink, toys in the bedroom, and overcoming the fear of being imperfect. Watch the trailer to Mea Culpa https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-p0g9YfjJSA Follow Kelly  https://www.instagram.com/kellyrowland/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-p0g9YfjJSA Thanks to Our Sponsors  DAME Head to http://dame.com at dame.com and if you’d like to pick something up, my code SHANLOVERS gets you 15% off at checkout ARYA  Head to http://arya.fyi to learn how they’re helping couples break their sexual routine and if you’re interested in trying it code SHAN15 gets you 15% off now Follow Shan http://instagram.com/shanboodram

Welcome to (some of) the best of Lovers and Friends the podcast. Hear from JESSIE REYES, MELISSA AND KEV OnSTAGE, ABBY DE LA ROSA, SHANOLA HAMPTON, TIM Chantrangsu aka DE LA GHETTO, DREW LOVE from THEY, RACHEL LINDSAY and GLO ATANMO during this special recap episode. THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR ONSEKIN Go to http://oneskin.co and 15% off with code LOVERS15 GLO ATANMO https://youtu.be/lbIaM09t0ZU?si=GtWZkCBspPlmUA8f https://open.spotify.com/episode/1W4xrpdCh0V3OwXZCYt1bO?si=mJNj1rxcQ7a333AUmgsqMA JESSIE REYES https://youtu.be/7IbgI3-s7Ps?si=j0CL3b8gYqsNbqFe https://open.spotify.com/episode/2w3jYgkVIgg2eQoYWuALhp?si=8q3ptyfKQbWn9FrrY3bZTA MELISSA AND KEV https://youtu.be/hrMVcujhg1A?si=idb7xnDq8TX1aBh_ https://open.spotify.com/episode/4NjXUyZ5suDL3ytxUALFV8?si=gg3B7zvfQnm5nS9XUpkyZA ABBY DE LA ROSA https://youtu.be/aq8290G52_I?si=oaI5d_ALvuj82z9V https://open.spotify.com/episode/5AM2X8zNwmgV3koVtgemPC?si=pzqGDEw3QMCe8Awx9eFK7Q SHANOLA HAMPTON https://youtu.be/J7PZakvvdCo?si=LDSbtyjNTKuNmZ1u https://open.spotify.com/episode/2pHr7jrSj7iQTZlsbIUoYV?si=-pk8WovdSbqLLyrXDrRpRg TIM DE LA GHETTO https://youtu.be/G6WYaHFOjEU?si=uDvI7cap3yCs0srq https://open.spotify.com/episode/0VuY52Ct9XS9Wua4dtupO6?si=ZFMbJEQOQ56IuBADlxm8og DREW LOVE https://youtu.be/bdooXjRGprY?si=AG3KL1r-wAfeb8Gm https://open.spotify.com/episode/39lGd7mxW9jvpGpOPYMKaj?si=ou8FILHeSGG7P21hCZwMog RACHEL LINDSAY https://youtu.be/bnEORZJD2pQ?si=LiHiZKFU1-_Cv8l6 https://open.spotify.com/episode/1kN3P1KoHI3LcnLNRgzY76?si=faUIGN4ATUaLvewVQ3AjCQ HELP WHY CAN’T I ORGASM https://open.spotify.com/episode/2X8oEJMQ8JNSu6Psa53r7O?si=wJMEWu6vTmGpia1waTZ0Sw