Better Sex

In this episode of Better Sex, Jessa Zimmerman interviews Dr. Molly Maloof, a physician who explores the significant impact of relationships on health and longevity. Dr. Maloof delves into the connection between human relationships and overall well-being, highlighting the innovative Adamo method she developed to enhance passion, connection, and sexual satisfaction among couples. The discussion covers various topics, from the basics of energy metabolism to the science of love, trauma-informed sex therapy, and the promising future of AI in medicine. The episode offers listeners valuable insights into how healthy relationships and sexual health contribute to living a longer, happier life.00:00 Introduction to Better Sex Podcast00:48 Interview with Dr. Molly Maloof02:27 The Importance of Relationships for Longevity03:34 Energy Metabolism and Human Connection05:49 Adamo: Enhancing Sexual Relationships08:04 Sexual Satisfaction and Overcoming Dysfunction18:11 The Adamo Method Explained26:12 Trauma-Informed Sexual Healing30:24 Future Trends in Sexual Health32:01 Conclusion and Contact InformationWant to take the quiz - How big a problem is my sex life? https://www.sexlifequiz.comBioDr. Molly is a pioneering force in healthspan extension and longevity medicine. Her expertise spans personalized medicine, digital health technologies, biofeedback-assisted lifestyle interventions, and scientifically-based wellness products and services. Her groundbreaking book, "The Spark Factor," is the first biohacking book for women.As the founder and CEO of Adamo Bioscience, Molly is also at the forefront of bringing modern sex education to couples with a groundbreaking intimacy program developed through a study of the science of love. The Adamo Method is a program designed for couples looking to optimize and improve their sexual and relational function. Designed with top experts in the fields of medicine, psychology, and somatic sexuality, the program is a comprehensive and enjoyable intimacy education for modern adults. In 2024, Adamo ran an IRB-approved study on love, intimacy and sexual function in long-term relationships and observed the efficacy of The Adamo Method. Preliminary results showed significant statistical improvement in sexual satisfaction, wellbeing and communication and improvements in love, intimacy and passion. Results will be published in late 2024.Follow Dr. Molly on Instagram:@Drmolly.co@LivingAdamomy coupon code: JESSA10www.livingadamo.comwww.drmolly.coWant to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water.More info and resources:Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcastSecret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcastHow Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.comThe Course – https://www.intimacywithease.comThe Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.comPodcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.comAccess the Free webinar: Intimacy Made Easy: 3 Secrets to Bridging Libido Differences: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

In this episode of Better Sex, host Jessa Zimmerman engages in a detailed discussion with Anna Rahe about fascia, a system of connective tissues in the body. They explore how fascia impacts sexual health, pain, pleasure, flexibility, and overall bodily function. Rae shares insights from her personal journey of overcoming severe health issues through understanding and working with her fascia. Listeners learn about the relationship between fascia and various body systems, the importance of movement and hydration for fascia health, and practical strategies to improve fascia function. The episode also includes a demonstration of exercises beneficial for pelvic floor health and enhancing sexual pleasure.00:00 Introduction to Better Sex Podcast00:47 Understanding Fascia with Anna Rahe01:38 Anna Rahe's Personal Journey with Fascia04:55 What is Fascia?07:51 The Importance of Fascia in Overall Health09:49 Maintaining Healthy Fascia16:02 Fascia and Movement Practices20:47 Fascia's Role in Sexual Health23:28 The Pelvic Floor and Diaphragm Connection24:45 Understanding Pain and Fascia25:42 The Insula and Fascia's Role in Sensory Processing27:24 Fascia's Impact on Sexual Health34:50 Practical Exercises for Fascia Health39:07 Integrating Fascia Health into Daily Life41:14 Resources and Closing RemarksInterested in resources on desire discrepancy? https://www.desirediscrepancy.comBio:For the past 25+ years, Anna Rahe has delved deep into a liberating and empowering relationship with fascia so that as many people as possible can invest in their health, restore their vitality, and heal themselves with the proprietary tools she has created. As the founder, CEO and educator of GST Body, Anna has spoken about holistic body care through fascia around the world, partnered with top athletes, surgeons, physicians and celebrities, and been featured in various publications, from Shape to Elle, Net-a-Porter to The Wall Street Journal.Link for exercise demo videohttps://gstvitalifestudio.com/checkout/new?o=194964Want to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water.More info and resources:Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcastSecret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcastHow Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.comThe Course – https://www.intimacywithease.comThe Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.comPodcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.comAccess the Free webinar: Intimacy Made Easy: 3 Secrets to Bridging Libido Differences: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

In this episode of Better Sex, sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman talks with Reverend Beverly Dale, who discusses her journey in helping people heal from sex-negative teachings in religion. They explore how sexuality and spirituality intersect, the sexual wounds caused by rigid religious structures, and the path towards embracing one's authentic sexual self.00:00 Introduction00:45 Guest Introduction and Topic Overview02:24 Reverend Beverly Dale's Background02:49 The Church's Role in Sexual Shame03:17 Understanding Sexual Wounding03:24 Intersection of Faith and Healing03:43 Analyzing Structural Issues10:25 Sexual Wounds in Society11:47 Strategies for Healing23:02 Reverend Dale's Book and Resources29:45 Finding Support and Community30:26 Conclusion and Contact InformationWould you like to share your personal story of sexual healing or empowerment on the show? Email me at info@intimacywithease.comRev. Dr. Beverly Dale has made a career of teaching a pleasure-centered, justice-focused and sex-positive Christianity as an ecumenical campus minister at the University of Pennsylvania and by writing, producing, and performing in a one-woman show titled, An Irreverent Journey from Eggbeaters to Vibrators. In 2013 she founded the Incarnation Institute for Sex & Faith that provides training for clergy and sexual health professionals on how to help people rethink harmful religious teaching that creates intimacy issues for couples and problems for individuals self-esteem. Believing in an inclusive, science-friendly, and sex-positive Christianity she developed the curriculum for this cutting edge and unique educational opportunity as well as co-wrote the text in her first book, Advancing Sexual Health for the Christian Client, Data and Dogma (2019). In addition, she has taught seminarians sexuality and faith classes at Lancaster Theological Seminary and is now touring for her second book, “Who Told You That You Were Naked? Meditations on the Sexual Body.” She has a passion for those in the pews and those who have left them because of the rigid or judgmental views about the body that, from her view, is too-often proclaimed in the church and is totally contrary to the Christian faith. www.beverlydale.orgWant to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water.More info and resources:Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcastSecret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcastHow Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.comThe Course – https://www.intimacywithease.comThe Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.comPodcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.comAccess the Free webinar: Intimacy Made Easy: 3 Secrets to Bridging Libido Differences: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

Want to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water.More info and resources:Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcastSecret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcastHow Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.comThe Course – https://www.intimacywithease.comThe Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.comPodcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.comAccess the Free webinar: Intimacy Made Easy: 3 Secrets to Bridging Libido Differences: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host Jessa Zimmerman engages with mindfulness and pleasure coach Danielle Savory to explore the intertwined roles of mindfulness, self-compassion, and stress management in enhancing sexual desire and intimacy. The discussion delves into the physiological and psychological impacts of stress on sexual connection, emphasizing the different ways men and women handle stress and the resulting challenges. Practical techniques to improve mindfulness and awareness during sexual interactions are provided, alongside strategies for managing stress individually and within relationships. The episode also outlines personal experiences and transformations, underscoring the importance of self-regulation, creating personal safety, and fostering deeper connections using self-compassionate practices.00:00 Welcome to Better Sex00:50 Introducing Danielle Savory: Mindfulness and Pleasure Coach01:36 Danielle's Journey to Mindfulness and Pleasure06:07 The Connection Between Mindfulness and Sexual Pleasure09:03 Understanding Stress and Its Impact on Pleasure14:35 Gender Differences in Handling Stress and Sexual Pleasure17:25 Navigating Relationship Dynamics17:45 Creating Personal Safety18:34 Bridging the Gap with Partners19:53 Managing Stress and Self-Regulation21:08 Practical Stress-Relief Techniques25:00 Mindfulness and Self-Compassion30:05 Resources and Final ThoughtsTake the quiz at https://www.sexlifequiz.comBioDanielle Savory is a master-certified coach, public speaker, and passionate advocate for women’s pleasure, bringing science-backed data into the life-altering power of pleasure. With a deep, personal understanding of the challenges women face, Danielle is devoted to helping them reclaim their sexuality and reconnect with their bodies. She has successfully guided hundreds of women to overcome body shame, break free from societal expectations, and embrace the passionate lives they deserve. Danielle believes that pleasure isn’t a luxury—it’s essential to a woman’s overall health and happiness. Rooted in neurology, Danielle’s approach emphasizes that every woman is inherently wired for pleasure, and tapping into that pleasure is crucial for optimal well-being—enhancing immunity, focus, creativity, and vitality. Having overcome her own struggles with body image, mixed messages about sex and past traumas, she now shares her wisdom and experience with others, helping them step into their power and fully embrace their pleasure. Whether through her coaching, speaking engagements, podcast, or courses, Danielle is on a mission to help women live lives they are truly in love with—where they are deeply satisfied, fully alive, and boldly standing up for what they believe.Want to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water.More info and resources:Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcastSecret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcastHow Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.comThe Course – https://www.intimacywithease.comThe Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.comPodcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.comAccess the Free webinar: Intimacy Made Easy: 3 Secrets to Bridging Libido Differences: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

In this enlightening episode of Better Sex, host and sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman converses with sex and relationship coach Aaron Michael. The discussion unpacks Aaron's journey into sexual health, beginning with his experiences in massage therapy and addressing his personal challenges. Key topics include 'suction sex,' 'embodied consent,' and 'embodied love,' offering a fresh approach to sexual pleasure, intimacy, and mutual satisfaction. Practical insights about overcoming numbness, understanding psychological and physical barriers, and the role of self-pleasuring in building confidence are explored. Additionally, the episode highlights the disparity within the sexual wellness industry, advocating for better education and higher standards for practitioners. Aaron also introduces 'Embodied Love University,' a platform designed to elevate sexual education and integrate wellness practices into broader medical and educational frameworks.00:00 Welcome to Better Sex with Jessa Zimmerman00:48 Meet Aaron Michael: A Journey into Sex and Relationship Coaching03:39 Understanding Suction Sex: A New Approach to Shared Pleasure07:59 Embodied Consent: Tuning into Your Body's Yes, No, and Maybe09:46 Embodied Love: Building Intimacy Through Truth, Trust, and Celebration11:19 Overcoming Numbness and Secondary Pleasure in Sexual Relationships15:54 Awakening the Sensual Woman: A Six-Week Program17:04 Masterclass Break: Making Sex Fun and Easy17:49 Understanding the Pleasure System19:37 Challenges for the Giver21:47 Alleviating Performance Anxiety24:58 Exploring Fantasies and Communication28:09 The Future of Sexual Wellness32:26 Introducing Embodied Love University33:37 Programs and Resources37:38 Conclusion and Contact InformationInterested in my webinars that talk about desire discrepancy? You can sign up at https://www.intimacywithease.com/masterclassBioAaron Michael, author of Optimal Sex life, creator of Bedroom Masterclass, and a Relationship, Intimacy and Sex Coach. He is your Coach’s coach and has dedicated himself to helping others discover, explore and integrate their sexual sovereignty by providing a no bs, adult, sex positive sex education.With over +5000 hours of sexological body work, his work has influenced over 100,000 people, two venture funded startups, and he is the founder of Embodied Love™, Embodied Consent™ and Suction Sex™—a new method for the embodiment of penetrative sex.He has created multiple online courses, from “9 Naughty Nights” to “YEAHFAP” to “Awakening The Sensual Woman”, which support individuals to be able to give and receive ecstatic pleasure as well as enhance their mental and physical arousal. Aaron is sought out for his innovative approach to resolving issues such as genital pain, anaorgasmia, premature ejaculation, penetration anxiety, mis-matched arousal, and mental arousal. His method is at the core of the Kama sex app practices and tools, as well as the Adamo Bioscience medical protocol for transforming sexual dysfunction. He has an Elite MA in Cognitive Semiotics and an BA with Honors in Linguistics where he specialized in adult romantic attachment, courtship and how the brain interprets love. With over 20 years of experience as an embodiment coach in the field of dating, relationship and sex he crafts bespoke embodiment programs for you and your loved ones. He and Dr. Saida are concentrating all of this work and expertise by co-founding the comprehensive, sexual wellness, learning platform at embodiedloveuniversity.com, which is a university like education and community, for sexual fluency and free education for all. Want to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water.More info and resources:Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcastSecret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcastHow Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.comThe Course – https://www.intimacywithease.comThe Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.comPodcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.comAccess the Free webinar: Intimacy Made Easy: 3 Secrets to Bridging Libido Differences: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

In this episode of Better Sex, host Jessa Zimmerman welcomes Dr. Irwin Goldstein (Dr, G(, a pioneer in sexual medicine, to discuss the intricacies of menopause and women's sexual health. The conversation delves into the hormonal changes during menopause, common misconceptions, and the benefits of seeking treatment even though menopause is a natural phase. Dr. G emphasizes the importance of understanding the Genital Urinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) and its symptoms, and discusses various reversible treatment options including bioidentical hormones. The episode highlights the significant impact of monitored hormone management on improving women's health and the importance of educating women and medical professionals about the changes menopause brings. Jessa and Dr. G also touch on the societal tendency to overlook women's sexual health and the necessity for more comprehensive research and treatment guidelines. They conclude by discussing how women can find the right care in their areas through organizations like ISSWSH, and Jessa urges listeners to subscribe and rate the podcast for more insights.00:00 Welcome to Better Sex with Jessa Zimmerman00:45 Introduction to Dr. G and the Importance of Sexual Medicine01:07 Understanding Menopause: Symptoms and Misconceptions01:50 Dr. G's Personal Story and Approach to Menopause04:20 Hormonal Changes and Their Impact on Women's Health07:19 The Importance of Testosterone in Women08:53 Challenges in Treating Menopause: FDA and Gender Bias09:42 Natural vs. Treatable: The Debate on Menopause12:04 Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM)16:31 The Role of ISSWSH and Urology in Women's Sexual Health20:39 Treatment Options for Menopause23:50 Monitoring and Administering Hormone Treatments35:37 Finding the Right Provider and Conclusion37:03 Closing Remarks and Listener EngagementWork with Jessa? Learn more at https://www.intimacywithease.comBio:Dr. Goldstein has been involved with sexual dysfunction research since the late 1970's. He has authored more than 350 publications as well as multiple book chapters and edited 6 textbooks in the field. His interests include penile microvascular bypass surgery, surgery for dyspareunia, sexual health management post cancer treatment, genital dysesthesia/persistent genital arousal disorder, physiologic investigation of sexual function in men and women, and diagnosis and treatment of sexual dysfunction in men and women. Dr. Goldstein is Director of Sexual Medicine at Alvarado Hospital, Clinical Professor of Surgery at University of California, San Diego and practices medicine at San Diego Sexual Medicine. He is also Editor-in-Chief of Sexual Medicine Reviews and past Editor of The Journal of Sexual Medicine. He is a Past President of the International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health and of the Sexual Medicine Society of North America. He holds a degree in engineering from Brown University and received his medical degree from McGill University. The World Association for Sexual Health awarded the Gold Medal to Dr. Goldstein in 2009 in recognition of his lifelong contributions to the field, in 2012 he received the International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health Award for Distinguished Service in Women’s Sexual Health, in 2013 he received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Sexual Medicine Society of North America, and in 2014 he received the ISSM Lifetime Achievement Award from the International Society for Sexual Medicine. He is happily married to his college sweetheart Sue, and together they have three children and five grandchildren.Want to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water.More info and resources:Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcastSecret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcastHow Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.comThe Course – https://www.intimacywithease.comThe Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.comPodcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.comAccess the Free webinar: Intimacy Made Easy: 3 Secrets to Bridging Libido Differences: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

In this episode of Better Sex, host Jessa Zimmerman welcomes Christine Miles, an expert in the skill of listening, to discuss its significance in intimate relationships and beyond. The conversation delves into the importance of actively cultivating listening skills rather than relying on innate ability. Christine shares her own background and how understanding her mother's underlying pain led her to become an empathetic listener. The episode explores common pitfalls and barriers to effective listening, such as digital distractions and emotional defenses, and offers strategies to overcome them. Christine elaborates on a structured approach to listening, presenting six foundational tools that help engage with the speaker's story comprehensively. She emphasizes the power of understanding in fostering connection and resolving conflicts. The discussion also touches on the importance of empathy and how it naturally follows structured listening. Christine is launching a classroom program aimed at teaching children listening skills, highlighting the broader applicability of these techniques. The episode aims to encourage listeners to integrate these principles into daily interactions to strengthen their relationships.00:00 Introduction to Better Sex with Jessa Zimmerman00:47 The Importance of Listening in Relationships01:30 Christine Miles' Journey to Becoming a Listening Expert04:11 The Impact of Listening on Relationships05:33 Common Pitfalls in Listening11:04 The Role of Empathy and Curiosity in Listening17:01 Barriers to Effective Listening20:03 Tools and Strategies for Better Listening20:17 Mastering the Listening Path20:34 The Four Stops of a Story22:31 Facts and Feelings in Storytelling23:38 The Six Most Powerful Questions25:53 Reflecting and Summarizing28:06 The Water Filter Technique30:18 Listening as a Skill33:03 Integrating Listening Skills in Daily Life34:29 Resources and Final ThoughtsInterested in the private podcasts?Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcastSecret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcastBio:CHRISTINE MILES is the founder and CEO of EQuipt, an award-winning author, professional keynote speaker, consultant, executive coach, thought leader, entrepreneur, and world-renowned expert in the field of listening differently. With a background in psychology, Christine has spent 25+ years working with individuals and organizations to unlock the power of emotional intelligence to drive business and personal results, solve complex problems, and build enduring relationships.Christine believes listening, not speaking, is the most powerful form of communication. Dealing with her mother’s pain and adversity, from a very young age, Christine learned to listen differently. Her ability to listen is what has always set her apart. In contrast, throughout her career, Christine recognized the inability to listen as a common thread in the failure of relationships, leaders, salespeople, projects, and businesses. She also recognized, while we’re taught the importance of listening, we are rarely taught how. She founded EQuipt to change this. To create a Listening Movement, revolutionizing the communication paradigm, where listening to understand, not speaking, is recognized as the most important and powerful form of communication. Christine is passionate about creating a reality where educators, business leaders, and corporations invest time and resources – in listening – to cultivate a future with more unity, and less division, more curiosity and collaboration, and make room for more innovation and humanity.To scale EQuipt’s Listening Movement, Christine published the award-winning book, What Is It Costing You Not to Listen?: The Power of Understanding to Connect, Influence, Solve & Sell (2021). Based on the principles outlined in her book, she created the Listening Path®, a game-changing approach to teaching people how to listen differently, to transform their personal and professional lives.Want to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water.More info and resources:Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcastSecret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcastHow Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.comThe Course – https://www.intimacywithease.comThe Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.comPodcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.comAccess the Free webinar: Intimacy Made Easy: 3 Secrets to Bridging Libido Differences: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host Jessa Zimmerman speaks with Melissa Kilbride about the importance of open and honest conversations with children regarding sex, sexuality, and pornography. Melissa shares her background in social work and emphasizes the necessity of early and age-appropriate sex education to prevent sexual abuse, promote sexual health, and reduce shame. They discuss the impacts of societal and parental silence on sexual topics, providing practical advice for discussing these topics with children from a young age. The episode also touches on the challenges and considerations for parents monitoring their children's online activity and introduces Melissa's resources and workshops designed to support parents in fostering healthy, informed views on sexuality in their kids.00:00 Introduction to Better Sex Podcast00:50 Guest Introduction: Melissa Kilbride00:58 The Importance of Talking to Kids About Sex01:36 Melissa's Background and Passion04:02 Challenges and Strategies for Parents04:57 Breaking Down the Conversation by Age11:29 The Role of Pleasure and Consent22:31 Discussing Pornography with Kids27:51 Parental Controls and Monitoring30:54 Conclusion and ResourcesWant to take the quiz? https://www.sexlifequiz.comMelissa Kilbride is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist. She is the owner of a group therapy practice in the Capitol Hill neighborhood of Washington, DC and has 20 years of experience in direct client contact. Melissa is an advocate for early sexual health education and, as both a clinician and a mother, believes passionately in the necessity of teaching young children about their bodies and sex as an issue of safety and a path to later healthy relationships. Melissa offers workshops and consultations to parents in support of these ideals to help them feel more “askable” and help them navigate sex talks and related challenges that may come up along the way. Melissa is also the co-author of Working with Worry: A workbook for parents on how to support anxious children.Want to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water.More info and resources:Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcastSecret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcastHow Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.comThe Course – https://www.intimacywithease.comThe Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.comPodcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.comAccess the Free webinar: Intimacy Made Easy: 3 Secrets to Bridging Libido Differences: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

Addressing Religious Sexual Shame with Jessa Zimmerman and Natasha HelferIn this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host Jessa Zimmerman chats with sex therapist Natasha Helfer about religious sexual shame. They discuss its origins, the impact it has on individuals, and ways to overcome it. Natasha shares insights from her personal background, professional experiences, and offers practical advice through the 'pep talk' approach (Permission, Education, Practice, Talk). The episode also explores various religious teachings and their effects on sexual behavior and health, delivering valuable information for those trying to reconcile their sexual and religious identities.00:00 Introduction to Better Sex Podcast00:47 Guest Introduction: Natasha Helfer01:19 Understanding Religious Sexual Shame03:02 Purity Culture and Its Impact05:51 Sexual Shame and Its Consequences08:53 Navigating Sexual Shame in Relationships10:44 Recognizing and Addressing Sexual Shame13:25 Therapeutic Approaches to Sexual Shame16:32 Managing Sexual Shame Within Religious Contexts22:17 Practical Steps to Overcome Sexual Shame30:24 Resources and Support for Sexual Shame37:25 Conclusion and Contact InformationWant to be a guest on the show to share your personal story? Don't worry, it can be anonymous! Reach out at info@intimacywithease.comBio:Natasha Helfer is an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist/Supervisor and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with almost 25 years of experience (licensed in UT, KS & WI). Her expertise lies in the intersection of conservative religious upbringings and sexuality, specifically in the area of deconstructing internalized sexual shame. She runs a group practice, Symmetry Counseling, where services focus on helping people with religious trauma, reclaiming sexual desire, mixed-faith relationships, coming out journeys, healing sexual shame or trauma, and exploring sexual authenticity. Natasha is the author of two books: Check Your Baggage: Unpack the Messages Getting in the Way of Your Sex Life and One Family, Two Views: How to Fortify Your Mixed-Faith Mormon Marriage. She’s the Director of the Program in Religion and Mental Health Treatment at the Buehler Institute at the Buehler Institute (learnsextherapy.com) where she provides a 12-hour APA approved competency certificate called: Sex, Love & Conservative Faith. Natasha was excommunicated from the Mormon church in 2021, for her advocacy in regards to sexual health. You can find her at natashahelfer.com and @natashahelfermft where she podcasts, runs a membership and offers you all kinds of helpful resources. Want to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water.More info and resources:Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcastSecret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcastHow Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.comThe Course – https://www.intimacywithease.comThe Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.comPodcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.comAccess the Free webinar: Intimacy Made Easy: 3 Secrets to Bridging Libido Differences: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass