Conversations with Dr. Jennifer

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.

Dan and Marie were happy enough in their marriage, until they started listening to Room for Two. Listening to the Dave and Carly series woke them up to the fact that even though their marriage was peaceful and good, it wasn’t as honest as they had believed it to be, and they wanted to create something better. So they got to work – listened to podcasts, worked through courses, and even attended a couples’ workshop. Their efforts to bring more honesty and authenticity to the marriage paid off and they caught occasional glimpses of what their relationship was really capable of, but... old habits die hard, and despite the progress, they often find themselves slipping into their familiar pattern of trying to manage how they are seen and experienced, which leaves their sexual engagement feeling lackluster and “vanilla.” In this episode of Room for Two, Dr. Jennifer works with Dan and Marie to help them better understand what their intimate relationship is exposing about their relational dynamic, and how honesty and authenticity will open the door for them to create the spark and passion that they long for. Want to hear the FULL episode? Subscribe to Room for Two and gain immediate access to this and over 100 other full-length Room for Two episodes!

Dive into the world of female arousal where freedom in relationships sparks desire. Discover how societal beliefs shape women's sexual experiences and the importance of emotional connections and relaxation. Learn practical tips for overcoming performance anxiety and self-judgment. Explore the effects of menopause on intimacy, and why mindset matters. Plus, find out how vibrators and simple gestures like kissing can enhance connection and pleasure. Embrace sex as a joyful experience, not just another task!

Many of those who develop a compulsive relationship with pornography aren’t just looking for sexual gratification—they’re looking for a type of relief.  These are often people who appear most put together on the outside—the responsible student, the dedicated churchgoer, the child who carries the family’s expectations. With little space to process stress or be truly known, pornography becomes a tempting, private escape from the pressures of life. But over time, this creates a growing divide between their public persona and private reality, reinforcing shame and deepening their sense of fracture and isolation. This pattern often carries into marriage, where rather than risk the exposures of real intimacy and connection with a spouse, porn continues to be an easy escape.  In this NEW episode, Dr. Finlayson-Fife joins Taylor Chambers to discuss how we can turn challenges related to pornography into opportunities for personal and relational growth. They explore the systemic issues that contribute to porn use, the impact that unwanted porn use has on marriages, and how we can use conflict and crisis in our relationships as opportunities to learn more about ourselves and create meaningful growth in our capacity for real intimacy. _________ In the episode, Dr. Finlayson-Fife discusses the Zach and Kelly Room for Two series. Subscribe to Room for Two to listen to the entire 7-episode series! Dr. Finlayson-Fife also mentions her upcoming Art of Loving Retreat in St. George, Utah. You can join the interest list for that retreat HERE.

Dr. Jennifer Finlayson-Fife, an LDS relationship and sexuality coach with a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology, discusses the transformative journey of women in midlife. She highlights how physical changes can lead to a deeper understanding of self and relationships. The conversation delves into sexuality during menopause, urging open communication to enhance intimacy. They also explore balancing personal identities with nurturing relationships and the power of self-acceptance in fostering growth and authenticity in this pivotal stage of life.

Discover what keeps the spark alive in long-term marriages. It’s all about authentic connection, not just new tricks in the bedroom. Learn how self-acceptance and open communication can deepen intimacy. The complexities of women's sexuality are explored, emphasizing playfulness and genuine connections. The discussion encourages couples to cultivate desire while resisting societal pressures. This engaging Q&A delves into the heart of what it means to truly know and be known by your partner.

Jennifer Finlayson-Fife, a relationship and sexuality coach with a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology, dives into maintaining intimacy amidst the chaos of adult life. She discusses how intimacy goes beyond intercourse, emphasizing self-acceptance as crucial for healthy connections. The conversation tackles the effects of anxiety and antidepressants on desire, and offers insights on 'fighting fair' in marriage. Finlayson-Fife encourages couples to prioritize their partnership, allowing sexuality to flourish in everyday moments.

Talking to kids about sex isn't easy, but it's essential. Children look to parents for guidance in understanding their sexuality. Open discussions show that parents care and can tackle tough subjects. Insights on fostering a continuous and honest dialogue empower kids to make informed choices about their bodies and relationships. Parents are encouraged to embrace these conversations, promoting respect and a healthy grasp of evolving sexual identities.