

Charting Toward Intimacy
Ellen Holloway
Looking for answers to the questions you don't want to Google? Not sure where to get help when your sexual life is on the rocks and everything the secular culture has to offer is only making things worse? Welcome to Charting Toward Intimacy where you learn to actually enjoy and desire good, holy sex with your spouse. Hosted by Ellen Holloway, Catholic Sex and Intimacy Coach.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 28, 2025 • 52min
How the Temperaments Affect Your Sex Life (part 2) | 231
Check out the Orgasm Course for Catholic WomenGo to listen to episode 224 first, our intro to the Temperaments and Sex Life topic!In this episode, Ellen and Kathleen break down how each temperament pairing can affect intimacy and communication in marriage. They discuss the unique challenges and strengths of every combination, offering practical tips for understanding your spouse and building a stronger relationship.Temperament Pairings & Timestamps:Choleric + Choleric — 5:52Choleric + Sanguine — 9:43Choleric + Melancholic — 13:31Choleric + Phlegmatic — 20:40Sanguine + Sanguine — 26:14Sanguine + Melancholic — 29:10Sanguine + Phlegmatic — 34:28Melancholic + Melancholic — 37:42Melancholic + Phlegmatic — 41:32Phlegmatic + Phlegmatic — 45:09___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses

Jul 21, 2025 • 12min
Pregnancy Does Not Need to be the End of Pleasurable Sex | Ep. 230
Just one position can change everything. Get the Catholic Sex Positions Guide right here!In this episode, Ellen shares a personal story from her third pregnancy, when the usual routines in the bedroom no longer worked. Instead of resigning herself to months of less enjoyable intimacy, she and her husband decided to try new positions—leading to a surprising transformation in their sex life.___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses

Jul 14, 2025 • 13min
Why Does Sex Have to End PIV if We're Infertile? | Ep. 229
Orgasm Course for Catholic Women is right here!In this episode, Ellen discusses the Catholic Church's teaching on the necessity of male ejaculation inside the vagina, even in cases of infertility, menopause, or pregnancy. She explains the deep theology and symbolism behind this teaching, emphasizing that sex is not just a physical act but a sacramental sign of total self-gift. Ellen explores how sex maintains its meaning and integrity by following God's design, reflecting on the body's language in Theology of the Body. Key references include Catechism 2366 and 2367 and Humanae Vitae.___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses

Jul 7, 2025 • 34min
You're Probably Hormonally Dysregulated | Ep. 228
Find out the 100% Catholic Way to orgasm right here!In this episode, Ellen and Kathleen discuss how everyday habits affect brain chemistry, focusing on hormones like dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and cortisol. They explore the negative impacts of dopamine and cortisol on relationships, especially marriage and intimacy, and offer practical strategies for reducing excessive phone use and avoiding quick dopamine hits. They emphasize the importance of deep connection and long-term bonding for overall well-being and spiritual health.___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses

5 snips
Jun 30, 2025 • 15min
Future You Has An Amazing Sex Life | Ep. 227
Explore the transformative power of envisioning your future self with an incredible sex life. Delve into a mental exercise designed to shift your thoughts and beliefs, bridging the gap between your current reality and your intimate aspirations. Discover how positive beliefs can enhance your intimacy and inspire actionable steps towards achieving the sex life you desire. Get ready to transform your mind drama into empowerment and fulfillment!

Jun 23, 2025 • 38min
Why Can't We Get a Vasectomy? | Ep. 226
In this episode, Ellen and Kathleen discuss why the Catholic Church opposes permanent sterilization methods such as vasectomies and tubal ligation. They explore deeper meanings behind the church’s teachings, the natural design and purpose of sex, and the importance of trust and intimacy in marriage. The episode also addresses medical concerns and distinctions between direct and indirect sterilization while emphasizing the moral and spiritual implications of these decisions.___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses

5 snips
Jun 16, 2025 • 10min
Sex is Not a Spectator Sport | Ep. 225
Dive into the intriguing concept of 'spectator mode' during intimacy, where overthinking can stifle genuine enjoyment. Learn how this common experience, especially for women, can be transformed. Discover practical steps to enhance your connection with your partner, focusing on sensations and engaging in meaningful conversations. Improve your sex life by breaking free from observation and embracing the moment.

Jun 9, 2025 • 35min
Do Cholerics Want More Sex? | Ep. 224
Transform your sex life in just one hour with the Orgasm Course for Catholic Women In this episode, Ellen and Kathleen dive into the four temperaments—choleric, sanguine, melancholic, and phlegmatic—and explore how these personality types can influence your sex life and relationships. They break down the core traits of each temperament, discuss common challenges and strengths, and share practical advice for embracing your unique personality in marriage. Ellen and Kathleen also reflect on their own experiences and encourage listeners to consider how understanding temperaments can lead to deeper connection and communication. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses

Jun 2, 2025 • 11min
Sex After a (Confessed) Vasectomy | Ep. 223
Check out the Orgasm Course fort Catholic WomenEllen addresses a listener's question about having sex after a vasectomy now that they understand Catholic Church teachings on permanent sterilization. She explains the forgiveness received through confession, the lack of requirement for a vasectomy reversal by the Church, and the psychological journey of fully accepting God's grace. Ellen discusses the emotional impact of sin and offers insights on how to handle lingering discomfort and seek further healing through prayer and understanding.___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses

May 26, 2025 • 31min
You're Actually Really Hard to Love | Ep. 222
Check out the Orgasm Course fort Catholic WomenEllen and Kathleen discuss the challenges of recognizing our own faults in marriage and how focusing on self-improvement can positively impact our relationships. They explore the importance of grace, self-reflection, and honest communication. The hosts emphasize that while it’s easy to pinpoint our spouse's shortcomings, acknowledging and working on our own flaws can lead to a happier, more virtuous marriage.___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses