

Savage Lovecast
Dan Savage
Dan Savage, America's only advice columnist, answers your sex and relationship questions and yaps about politics. To record a question for Dan to be answered in a later podcast, record your question and send it to Q@Savage.Love, or call 206-302-2064. For a much longer version of the show, with no ads, visit savage.love and get yourself a subscription.
Episodes
Mentioned books

14 snips
Jan 3, 2025 • 41min
Bonus New Year's Gift: Esther Perel
In this discussion, Esther Perel, a renowned psychotherapist and bestselling author, shares her insights on modern relationships. She redefines infidelity, suggesting the roles of victim and perpetrator are more complex than they seem. Perel emphasizes the importance of communication and active maintenance to nurture desire and intimacy, especially in long-term partnerships. She also addresses the challenges of emotional disengagement and introduces ethical non-monogamy as a potential solution. Throughout, she highlights the resilience required to heal and forgive after betrayal.

Dec 31, 2024 • 50min
Savage Lovecast Episode 948
Tawny Lara, a sober sexpert and author of "Dry Humping," shares her insights on partying sober and the innovative idea of Damp January—a gentler approach to reducing alcohol consumption. She champions having fun without the booze and offers tips for enjoying social events while remaining sober. The conversation also dives into a listener's relationship drama involving a new baby daddy and another's struggle with navigating a friend's crush, revealing the complexities of modern dating and connections. Perfect for starting the New Year with clarity!

11 snips
Dec 27, 2024 • 31min
Micro Bonus Holiday Gift: Ezra Klein
Ezra Klein, a renowned journalist and political analyst from the New York Times, shares his insights on family dynamics and evolving relationship structures. He delves into the rise of polyamory and its implications for traditional family models. The conversation also touches on the transformation of journalism, emphasizing the need for writers to adapt and connect with audiences. Klein reflects on the rich evolution of advice columns, showcasing their newfound prestige in contemporary media. His thoughtful analysis invites listeners to rethink relationships and information engagement.

Dec 24, 2024 • 51min
Savage Lovecast Episode 947
A quirky revival of the Feast of the Ass is humorously explored, complete with festive traditions. Listeners hear about the complexities of BDSM dynamics in new relationships and the importance of communication. One caller grapples with her past as a sex worker, facing issues of insecurity and power in her current romance. The discussion takes a turn towards intimacy, challenging the notion that women simply need lubrication, emphasizing emotional engagement instead. Medieval holiday origins and their modern interpretations also get a spotlight in this lively conversation.

Dec 17, 2024 • 56min
Savage Lovecast Episode 946
A gay man grapples with betrayal after discovering his boyfriend isn't single. A straight man's Instagram habits lead to heartbreak, sparking an empowering pep talk. A poly woman seeks advice on a viral herpes scare while an expert dispels myths. The need for a new term for 'Eskimo brothers' arises, inviting creative suggestions. The discussions also navigate the intricacies of intimacy, societal judgments, and the challenges of open relationships, shedding light on diverse human experiences and emotions.

25 snips
Dec 10, 2024 • 52min
Savage Lovecast Episode 945
A trans man shares his struggle for acceptance in gay spaces, feeling isolated during a lively dance party. A woman reflects on the challenge of rekindling passion with her sweet partner after dating 'bad boys.' Meanwhile, a comedian connects JonBenét Ramsey's murder to a lively discussion on sex parties and podcaster dynamics. Finally, a listener grapples with the emotional fallout of a kink introduction from a ghosting partner, seeking to reclaim their journey towards pleasure and acceptance.

27 snips
Dec 3, 2024 • 56min
Savage Lovecast Episode 944
Leigh Cowart, a science journalist and author of "Hurts So Good: The Science and Culture of Pain on Purpose", dives deep into the intriguing world of masochism and pain. She reveals how pain can be transformed into pleasure and discusses the nuances of having a sadist's imagination. The conversation also touches on the societal implications of derogatory language, especially among youth, and hints at navigating intimate relationships, particularly the challenges of long-distance romance. Cowart’s insights are as enlightening as they are entertaining!

18 snips
Nov 26, 2024 • 55min
Savage Lovecast Episode 943
Diana Adams, the Executive Director of the Chosen Family Law Center, brings her expertise in LGBTQIA+ legal advocacy to discuss the urgent need for queer individuals to secure their legal documents amidst political changes. She sheds light on unconventional surrogacy options for a married gay couple. The conversation also delves into a listener's secret desire involving Discord and intimacy. Plus, a comedic take on a jealous third in a poly relationship keeps things lighthearted, showcasing humor amid serious discussions.

Nov 19, 2024 • 52min
Savage Lovecast Episode 942
Tracy Schorn, an anti-cheating crusader and creator of Chump Lady, brings her fierce insights to the conversation. She and Dan have a fiery debate about infidelity, sparking laughter and contemplation. They tackle a woman's troubling dilemma of her boyfriend's kinks, including race play, and the emotional complexity of navigating desires and values. They also discuss the aftermath of a relationship marred by family conflicts, emphasizing accountability and the need for supportive communities. Get ready for a lively discussion about love, betrayal, and everything in between!

Nov 12, 2024 • 54min
Savage Lovecast Episode 941
Therapy Jeff, a therapist and podcaster, joins to explore the emotional complexities of relationships. He addresses a listener's experience feeling neglected in a threesome and offers insights on self-advocacy. A mother in an open relationship weighs how to explain her lifestyle to her daughter. They dive into navigating grief amid political upheaval and the importance of self-care. Jeff also tackles questions about intimacy, friendship challenges, and the need for open communication in adult relationships.