Sex for Saints

In this episode, we explore why sexual certainty, which is the belief that you already know exactly how intimacy should look, might actually be blocking passion and connection in your relationship. You'll learn the difference between confidence and certainty, how curiosity creates space for growth, and why faith and openness are key to deeper intimacy. Through personal stories, brain science, and real-life coaching examples, you'll see how letting go of rigid beliefs and asking better questions can transform your marriage, strengthen your connection, and help you discover new levels of joy in your intimate relationship. Source: Quotes from "Conclave" (2024 film directed by Edward Berger)

In this episode, we're unpacking a powerful insight that could completely transform the way you experience intimacy in your marriage. It's all about the surprising difference between safety and security in your sexual relationship and why understanding it might be the missing piece to reigniting the passion you've been longing for. Most people think they're the same thing, but once you see the distinction, it can change everything about the way you connect with your spouse. Sources: Safety vs. Security concept credit: Whitni Miller (BDEmoves on Instagram) on "You Are Not Broken" podcast with Dr. Kelly Casperson Episode: "325. Sex, Safety and Embodied Intimacy" (July 5, 2025) Link: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/you-are-not-broken/id1495710329?i=1000715944578&r=495 "Mating in Captivity: Unlocking Erotic Intelligence" by Esther Perel

In this dynamic episode, Amanda sits down with Hope Orr, the owner of Elevated Boudoir, Utah's premier boudoir photography studio. Hope shares her personal journey from body insecurity and diet culture to self-acceptance and how one DIY boudoir session completely shifted her mindset. Now, she helps other women (and couples) experience that same transformation through photography that's more about healing than it is about posing. We dive into how boudoir photography can spark self-love, rebuild confidence after trauma, and even strengthen marriages and intimacy. You'll hear deeply moving client stories - from new moms rediscovering their beauty to longtime couples reconnecting in ways they never expected. Whether you've always been curious about boudoir sessions or thought, "That's not for me," this conversation will challenge and inspire you. Plus, learn exactly what a session with Elevated Boudoir looks like and how it's designed to be a safe, empowering experience—no matter your size, age, or comfort level. You can find Hope at: Her website: http://elevatedboudoir.com Email: info@elevatedboudoir.com Instagram: @elevatedboudoir

In this episode, we're diving into a powerful idea I recently heard on the Sex Therapy 101 podcast - a conversation between Dr. Tina Schermer Sellers and my friend Dr. Cami Hurst. Dr. Sellers shared a thought-provoking insight about the difference between sex drive and sexual desire. It's something we've touched on before, but today I want to give it the attention it deserves. This is one of the most misunderstood concepts in marriage, and I truly believe that understanding this difference might just revolutionize your relationship. Let's unpack it together.

Is the marriage advice you've heard actually helping or quietly hurting your relationship? In this episode, Amanda interviews marriage coach and author Monica Tanner about her new book Bad Marriage Advice. They dive into common myths like "never go to bed angry" and "happy wife, happy life," and explain why these well-meaning tips can lead to disconnection over time. You'll hear real stories, modern insight, and practical ways to build a relationship rooted in choice, not obligation. Whether you're newlywed or decades in, this conversation is full of wisdom you won't want to miss. You can find Monica at: Her website: https://www.monicatanner.com/ Get on the waitlist for her book: https://www.badmarriageadvice.com/join-the-waitlist

Disappointment might be the secret ingredient to enhancing intimacy in relationships. The discussion reveals how avoiding disappointment can silently erode connections. By confronting this tough emotion, couples can improve their communication and sex life. Listeners learn practical strategies for navigating unmet expectations and embracing emotional vulnerability. This conversation uncovers the surprising power of processing disappointment to foster deeper intimacy and fulfillment.

You finally build up the courage to say something vulnerable, maybe about feeling disconnected, wanting more intimacy, or missing the spark in your relationship. And then, instead of a conversation, you hear: "Well, I guess I'm just a terrible spouse then." This podcast episode dives into what's really going on when that phrase shows up. It's not about blame or guilt. It's often a sign of emotional overwhelm. We'll explore why this defensive response shuts down connection, what's happening under the surface, and how it can impact both emotional and sexual intimacy in your marriage. If this phrase has ever brought your conversations to a standstill, this episode will help you understand it—and move past it—with more compassion and clarity.

Maintenance sex is often misunderstood as merely a chore, but it can be a sacred act of love. The discussion emphasizes intentional connection, transforming how couples approach intimacy. It's about being present with each other, even amidst life's chaos. Instead of seeing it as an obligation, couples are encouraged to cherish these moments to sustain emotional trust and physical closeness. Rediscovering this practice can reignite the spark in relationships and foster deeper connections.

Many people feel pressured during intimacy, believing that every sexual encounter must be exceptional. This discussion introduces the concept of Good Enough Sex, focusing on emotional connection instead of perfection. It highlights how early parenthood and tough times can strain intimacy, yet simple, pressure-free experiences can revive passion. The dialogue encourages reprioritizing mutual respect and vulnerability, suggesting that consistent, satisfying intimacy is far more valuable than unrealistic expectations. Let's embrace connection, even in its most ordinary forms!

Why do you react the way you do in sexual situations, whether it's craving something specific, avoiding certain dynamics, or feeling stuck in the same patterns? And why does your partner seem to approach sex so differently? In this episode, we explore how the Enneagram can shed light on your unique relationship to intimacy. The Enneagram isn't just another personality test - it's a deep dive into the core fears, desires, and motivations that shape how we show up in the world, including in our sex lives. Each of the nine types brings its own emotional lens to relationships, and when you begin to recognize those patterns in yourself and your partner, things start to make a lot more sense. This episode isn't about putting you in a box. It's about offering a new perspective - one that can help you grow in self-awareness, communicate more clearly, and build a more connected and compassionate intimate life. Enneagram Books: The Road Back To You - a basic primer on the enneagram and the types The Path Between Us - about how each type in relationship The Wisdom of the Enneagram - an indepth look at enneagram and each type Sex and the Enneagram - A Guide to Passionate Relationships for the 9 personality types