NEW Course Let's Talk About "It" is available NOW!Ellen addresses the question of whether it is okay for couples to make out while trying to avoid pregnancy during the fertile window. She explains the role of sexual arousal in preparing the body for sex and discusses the potential physical and emotional discomfort of arousing each other without the intention to have sex. ___________________________________ 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

Jackie Angel, an author and speaker passionate about God and relationships, shares insights from her book, Memorize Scripture. She discusses how scriptural memorization can enrich prayer life and deepen intimacy in marriage. The conversation reveals her personal journey and effective strategies for integrating scripture into daily routines. Jackie emphasizes the transformative power of internalizing biblical texts and offers tips for overcoming distractions during intimate moments, linking these practices to a more fulfilling relationship.

Get the FREE 5-day Foreplay Foundations Course today!Ellen explores why sexual pleasure is so elusive. Discussing perspectives from Karol Wojtyla's 'Love and Responsibility,' Ellen explains how pleasure is collateral and not the primary end of human action. This episode covers the importance of focusing on love and self-giving actions rather than directly seeking pleasure, which can make it elusive. Ellen emphasizes that this elusiveness is actually beneficial, helping to ensure that spouses do not use each other merely as means to an end.___________________________________ 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

Kathleen, a co-host and advocate for enhancing marital intimacy, discusses the power of perseverance in relationships. She emphasizes reframing thoughts around intimacy, offering practical tips for navigating challenges. The conversation dives into the emotional and spiritual dimensions of sexual connections, highlighting the role of patience and mindset shifts. Listeners gain insights into maintaining passion through life’s seasons, as well as the importance of spiritual practices in fostering emotional well-being and personal growth.

Check out the FREE Five Day Foreplay Course!In this episode, Ellen addresses common questions about foreplay and the Church's teachings on it. Covering topics such as the physiological effects of sexual arousal, the necessity of foreplay in intercourse, and the moral guidelines surrounding orgasms for both men and women, this episode provides a comprehensive overview. ___________________________________ 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

In this episode, Ellen and guest Mike 'Gomer' Gormley discuss the issue of sexual passivity in marriages, specifically through a Catholic lens. They explain what sexual passivity is, how it impacts relationships, and practical ways to combat it. Ellen emphasizes the importance of non-sexual touch and mutual understanding, while Gomer shares insights from his experience in parish ministry and personal anecdotes. They dive into the complexities of male and female perspectives on sex and intimacy, highlighting the significance of communication, respect, and appreciation in fostering a fulfilling marital relationship. This insightful dialogue aims to equip couples with the tools to enhance their intimacy and strengthen their marriages.___________________________________ 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

In this special 200th episode, Ellen and Kathleen delve into their personal experiences with Natural Family Planning (NFP) and their fertility journeys over the past year +. They reflect on the impact of these experiences on their marriages and share heartfelt conversations about the challenges and blessings they've encountered. Tune in for an intimate and honest discussion on faith, family, and marital intimacy.___________________________________ 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

Getting distracted during sex not your only struggle with sex? That's why we created the Catholic Sex Course for Women, check it out here!In this episode, Ellen and Kathleen discuss the common issue of getting distracted during sex. They provide practical tips and strategies for staying present, such as using grounding techniques, involving your senses, and communicating with your spouse. They also emphasize the importance of cultivating a positive mindset towards sex and how sharing this struggle with your spouse can help. Join Ellen and Kathleen as they explore ways to enjoy and engage in meaningful, undistracted intimate moments.Pop Culture Catechism episode with Ellen___________________________________ 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

Get the Catholic Sex Positions Guide right here!Stop right now and listen to episode 162 of this podcast before you listen to this episode!In this episode, Ellen addresses the common issue of women experiencing low sexual desire during their infertile periods while using Natural Family Planning (NFP). She provides practical tips to help navigate this challenge, starting with the importance of sleep, adequate nutrition, and stress management outlined in episode 162. Ellen suggests techniques such as scheduling sex, wearing comfortable attire, and mentally preparing yourself to enhance desire. She also emphasizes viewing sex as a gift to your spouse and the importance of a positive mindset toward enjoying your sex life.Mentionables (use code CHARTING10 to get 10% off!)___________________________________ 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

Get the Catholic Sex Course for Women right here!In this special episode, Ellen shares the powerful testimony of a woman named Victoria, who experienced profound changes in her marriage and sex life through faith and prayer. Overcoming personal struggles and the challenges posed by her husband's use of pornography, Victoria's story emphasizes the transformative power of God's providence, natural family planning, and intimate connection. This heartfelt narrative demonstrates how persistent devotion and understanding can turn a relationship filled with pain into one of love, joy, and deep intimacy.Bloom for Women is an excellent resource if you are struggling in the same way that Veronica did. ___________________________________ 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