Conversations with Dr. Jennifer

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Jennifer Finlayson-Fife, an LDS relationship and sexuality coach with a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology, dives deep into the complexities of masculinity. She redefines strength as the courage to confront uncomfortable truths and foster genuine connections. Key topics include the distinction between immature and mature masculinity, the importance of tolerating discomfort for growth, and how vulnerability can enhance relationships. Listeners gain insights into navigating feelings of unchosen and improving intimacy dynamics.

What do you do when you’ve faced yourself, stepped into clarity, and still… your spouse won’t (or can’t) lean into the relationship? In this Dr. Jennifer Finlayson-Fife joins Greg and Amy Langford of the Undressing Intimacy podcast to talk about the painful reality many couples face: when you want more honesty, connection, and intimacy—and your partner doesn't seem to want the same.  This episode dives into the difficult soul work of learning to tolerate what we can’t control, teases out the difference between patience and clinging to false hope, and offers guidance on how we can handle disappointment in our relationship with maturity.  Click HERE to learn more about Dr. Finlayson-Fife's relationship and sexuality courses for couples!

Sexuality is an important part of our spiritual and relational lives—but for many Latter-day Saints, it’s also a source of confusion and anxiety.  In this new episode, Dr. Finlayson-Fife joins Kurt Francom of the Leading Saints podcast to talk about how church leaders can best support their congregation in matters of sexuality—not by avoiding the topic or using fear-based messaging, but by offering a more hopeful, honest, and empowering vision of how our God-given sexuality can bless and enrich our lives.  Listen to the full episode to learn more about: What healthy leadership around sexuality can look like Why fear and shame don’t help people make better choices How to talk with youth in ways that build confidence and self-respect How healthy sexuality strengthens faith, integrity, and intimacy

Our sexual thoughts can be unruly and strange—but sharing these unique parts of ourselves with a spouse can be a powerful way to build intimacy and connection. In this episode, Dr. Jennifer answers questions from our Facebook Group about the role of fantasy in long-term relationships. She explores why fantasy often feels taboo, and how—when grounded in morality and friendship—it can become a meaningful tool for strengthening intimacy and deepening connection.

In this thought-provoking discussion, Jennifer Finlayson-Fife, an LDS relationship and sexuality coach with a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology, sheds light on the often-misunderstood Divine Feminine. She challenges the misconception that femininity equals weakness, instead celebrating the resilience and nurturing qualities that strengthen relationships and communities. With insights drawn from personal stories, she emphasizes the importance of balance between feminine and masculine energies, and how embracing one's femininity can lead to deeper emotional connections and personal growth.

David has been battling a pornography compulsion for much of his life. He’s read the books, listened to the podcasts, joined the groups, and tried every program he could find. But despite his best efforts, his behavior continues. The repeated use—and the cycle of disclosure that follows—has taken a toll on their marriage.  David is upfront when he slips—but this is in the form of turning to Alexa for forgiveness and reassurance. When Alexa distances following his disclosure, he often grows impatient. In this episode of Room for Two, Dr. Finlayson-Fife works with David and Alexa to better understand what’s keeping them stuck. She offers David a new perspective—that he would benefit from acknowledging the part of him that wants the escape of pornography, and that until he confronts that reality, genuine change will remain out of reach. Subscribe to Room for Two to listen to the FULL episode (and the rest of the David and Alexa series) 

Many people long for more ease and passion in their sexual relationship—but unknowingly bring meanings to sex that interfere with both. When sex becomes a duty to fulfill, a performance to manage, or a tool to reassure a partner, it loses the very energy that makes it feel alive. The pressure to produce intimacy, validation, or an orgasm can quietly unravel the conditions that desire needs in order to thrive. In this episode, Dr. Finlayson-Fife uses questions from her audience to unpack why so many of us struggle to feel ease and desire in our sexual relationship—and what we can do to can create a more soulful and passionate connection with our partner. ___ Join us for the Art of Desire Workshop in Gilbert, Arizona next week! Use code DESIRE to SAVE $100

It's hard to know how to address doubts, concerns, or frustrations about the church, especially because we tend to link "goodness" with being unquestioning.   Many worry that sharing their experiences or voicing their concerns will be misconstrued as a lack of faith or a full rejection of the gospel. The temptation is to stay silent in an effort to preserve harmony—or to speak up but in ways that ultimately shut down understanding, but neither of these approaches allow for the type of meaningful conversations that are requisite for creating positive change. In this powerful conversation, Dr. Finlayson-Fife joins Amy Watkins Jensen of Women on the Stand to discuss how women can engage in meaningful and honest conversations about their experiences in the Church and how daring to do so is what will allow us to create more honest and inclusive faith communities. ___  Join Dr. Finlayson-Fife in Arizona for the Art of Desire Workshop! Click HERE and use code DESIRE to SAVE $100

When sex feels like an obligation rather than a choice, it erodes intimacy, fosters resentment, and leaves partners feeling distant and disconnected. In this powerful Q&A discussion, Dr. Jennifer Finlayson-Fife explores the complexities of "duty sex" including what drives it and the detrimental impact it has on relationships. She discusses the powerful meanings we attach to sex, and how these meanings can either undermine desire by creating a sense of obligation or foster connection through choice and mutual desire. She offers insight into how both higher and lower-desire partners can step away from patterns of pressure and compliance and cultivate a more fulfilling sexual relationship built on mutual desire, authentic connection, and a sense of being truly chosen.  

In this discussion, Jennifer Finlayson-Fife, an LDS relationship and sexuality coach with a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology, challenges the cultural narratives that compel women to suppress their sexuality for spiritual acceptance. She emphasizes the need for women to reclaim their sexual identity and desires, which can enhance connection in relationships. They delve into the impact of menopause, societal pressures, and how embracing sexuality promotes self-respect, ultimately offering a roadmap for women to achieve fulfillment in love and intimacy.