Our society has a love/hate relationship with pleasure. More people than ever are experiencing anhedonia, the reduced ability to experience pleasure. Dr. Nan Wise, neuroscience researcher, certified sex therapist and author of Why Good Sex Matters, joins me to discuss why pleasure is a necessity for a balanced emotional brain. She walks us through the seven core emotional systems that give us feedback about what feels good and what is good for us. Dr. Nan expounds on how our brain is the command center for sex and a generator of pleasure. Learn more about your wired-in pleasure system and why good sex matters.Dr. Nan Wise is a certified sex therapist, relationship specialist, neuroscience researcher, and author of Why Good Sex Matters: Understanding the Neuroscience of Pleasure for a Smarter, Happier, and More Purpose-Filled Life.Learn more about Dr. Nan WiseVisit our episode sponsor Uberlube and use code CINDY for 15% offLearn more about these topics:The Growing Mental Health Crisis of Our GirlsDating Your BodyLearning to Listen to Your BodySex on the BrainJOIN my Newsletter Community.FOLLOW on Instagram.VISIT my Website.CALL or TEXT to submit a question: 1-714- 455-9149

WeNatal caught my attention with their holistic approach to fertility. Instead of the usual focus on me - the woman, they widen it to we - and include the partner. They bring men into the fertility equation. Founders Vida Delrahim and Ronit Menashe join me to talk about the importance of preconception care, healthy practices, gratitude and a more well rounded focus for couples in the fertility season. They share their story of miscarriage, friendship and the community they are building to support families on the fertility journey.Learn more about WeNatalWeNatal free preconception guideLearn more about these topicsSex, Postpartum and BreastfeedingSex and PregnancyIntimacy During Infertility or After MiscarriageTips for a Better BedroomSex after babyJOIN my Newsletter Community.FOLLOW on Instagram.VISIT my Website.CALL or TEXT to submit a question: 1-714- 455-9149

As Esther Perel says, “Creativity is where eroticism lives.” In this quickie episode I am highlighting three positions that make use of pillows or props. Try something new with Lifted Missionary, Chair Sex or Sex with Heels. Get a little creative with these positions for more comfort, fun and erotic pleasure.Learn more about these topics:Pleasure Techniques Ep. 41Pleasure Techniques on the BlogG-spotThe Clitoris - It's a Whole NetworkSex on the BrainForeplay IdeasTen Tips to Sexify Your BedroomWhen Your Partner Wants to Try Something NewJOIN my Newsletter Community.FOLLOW on Instagram.VISIT my Website.CALL or TEXT to submit a question: 1-714- 455-9149

I am determined to keep the growing mental health crisis among young women in front of our community. Our girls are struggling more than boys. Why? Did you know that 1 out of every 4 teen girls has symptoms of major depression? This is compared with fewer than 1 in 10 boys. Girls are also twice as likely as boys to suffer from anxiety. We have a crisis on our hands. Award-winning journalist, Donna Jackson Nakazawa, joins me to discuss the topic. We talk about how the toxic stressors of social media and our culture are uniquely affecting girls' mental health. We share action steps from Donna’s book, Girls on the Brink, that you can use to help the girl in your life thrive - not just survive!Donna Jackson Nakazawa is the author of Girls on the Brink as well as four books that explore the intersection of neuroscience, immunology, and emotion, including The Angel and the Assassin and Childhood Disrupted.  Learn more about these topicsLearning to Listen to Your BodyBook Review: Girls and Sex, Boys and SexBook Review: Mothers Daughters and Body ImageBook Review: The Body Is Not An ApologyBlog: Parent-Child JournalColoring Book For GirlsJOIN my Newsletter Community.FOLLOW on Instagram.VISIT my Website.CALL or TEXT to submit a question: 1-714- 455-9149

I invited Sheila Gregoire back to break down what women actually want from their male partners in bed. Sharing excerpts from her book, The Good Guy’s Guide to Great Sex, we debunk myths about the magic penis, mental load, foreplay, female arousal, and orgasm. Learn some practical ideas for increased pleasure and better sex!Visit our episode sponsor MANSCAPED and use code PERMISSION for 20% off and free shippingLearn more about Sheila's workMore on these topicsEp 29 on arousal with SheilaSexual ScriptsMental LoadForeplayFemale ArousalThe ClitorisPleasure TechniquesQuestions about orgasmMindfulnessPleasure practiceJOIN my Newsletter Community.FOLLOW on Instagram.VISIT my Website.CALL or TEXT to submit a question: 1-714- 455-9149

Welcome to Season Three! Whether you are a new listener, or have been here since the beginning - thank you for being part of this community. On this podcast we have conversations about sexual health and pleasure. Episodes include everything from interviews with experts to hearing from members of this community. This show is constantly evolving as I prioritize the topics you most want to hear about. My hope is that this community will help you to open healthy conversations and give yourself permission for pleasure.JOIN my Newsletter Community.FOLLOW on Instagram.VISIT my Website.CALL or TEXT to submit a question: 1-714- 455-9149

Exploring our erogenous zones is something to do often. We are wrapping up season two on the podcast by revisiting one of my favorite pleasure practices. This touch exercise is a wonderful way to connect with your body and your partner's. We change, and so do our bodies, which means our erogenous zones can as well. Learn ways to communicate where you enjoy being touched, as well as what kind of touch feels good. Explore each other's bodies with this guided touch exercise. Learn more about these topicsPleasurable Touch PracticeMassage Candles by Maude (use code CINDY10 for discount)JOIN my Newsletter Community.FOLLOW on Instagram.VISIT my Website.CALL or TEXT to submit a question: 1-714- 455-9149

Talking about sex is a skill strengthened through practice. In this quickie episode, I’m offering some helpful tips and conversation prompts to get you started. Listen solo or with your partner to learn practical ways to boost your sexual communication. Topics include: sexual frequency, reasons you want to have sex, scheduling sexy dates, being honest about what you no longer enjoy, and trying new things. Visit our episode sponsor Sexfirmation Cards and use code CINDY for 15% offLearn more about these topicsTalking with a partner about sexWhen your partner wants to try something newSexify your space on the podcastTen tips for a better bedroom blogEpisode 35 with Dr. Jac ShermanCommunication, couples and sexTalking about sex (when things aren't great)Scheduling sexWant better sex? Ask yourself these questionsWhy don't I want sex as much as my partnerJOIN my Newsletter Community.FOLLOW on Instagram.VISIT my Website.CALL or TEXT to submit a question: 1-714- 455-9149

It is always a delight when a member of our community comes on the show to share their story. Brit "Beans" Barron is a teacher, speaker and author of Worth It.  She joins me for a conversation about her journey evolving out of purity culture. We discuss her work to unpack shame, unravel the purity narrative and embrace her sexuality as a queer woman. Learn more about Brit's workLearn more about these topics:My letter to young womenLess Shame - More Sex EdLearning to Listen to Your BodyReclaim Your Arousal MindsetLet's Go Girls: Hailey from PasadenaJOIN my Newsletter Community.FOLLOW on Instagram.VISIT my Website.CALL or TEXT to submit a question: 1-714- 455-9149

You met the delightful Taylor Stonack if you watched episode one of Netflix’s How to Build a Sex Room. Whether you've seen the show or not, you’ll be drawn into her journey which she shares with both laughter and tears. She joins me for a conversation about her experience on the show, how she became interested in kink, and what she learned about herself through the process. She shares a few un-aired moments including a scene that brought back her past experience of sexual trauma. Through the outpouring of care and solid consent language, this resulted in a beautiful healing moment for her during the show’s creation. According to Taylor, “It started out as a room but it turned into more than that.”Taylor Stonack appeared on the first season of Netflix's How To Build A Sex Room, and her mission is to create a safe space for people to talk about their wants and desires in every aspect of their life. She owns the social media marketing agency Sweet Potato Social.Visit our episode sponsor  Reclaiming Pleasure with Dr. Holly RichmondLearn more about these topicsSexify Your BedroomPleasure After Trauma EpisodeReclaiming Pleasure Book ReviewSupporting SurvivorsArousal, Role Play and CondomsJOIN my Newsletter Community.FOLLOW on Instagram.VISIT my Website.CALL or TEXT to submit a question: 1-714- 455-9149

How in the world can a new mom feel sexy in survival mode? Journalist Simone Boyce flips the script to interview me about life and intimacy after childbirth. I answer her questions about the six-week mark, re-examining pleasure, code switching out of "mommy mode," and the reality of feeling touched out. You’ll learn my tips for intimacy without the pressure and ways to embrace outercourse (or as Simone says, “things you can do on the outside without ever having to go in the house!”). We talk about it all in this episode!Simone Boyce is a nationally recognized journalist, host and speaker whose work has been featured on MSNBC, the Today Show, Access Hollywood and more.  Sign up for her newsletter Motherload.Visit our episode sponsor Uberlube use code CINDY for 15% offLearn more about these topicsSex After BabyAll About LubeYour Body After BabySex and Pregnancy Sex, Postpartum, and Breastfeeding Myth Busting with UC Pain and SexStretched-Out Vaginas and Other MythsMental LoadMindfulness and the Truth About DesireBetter Sex Through Mindfulness book reviewThe 6 second kiss from the Gottman InstituteJOIN my Newsletter Community.FOLLOW on Instagram.VISIT my Website.CALL or TEXT to submit a question: 1-714- 455-9149

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could all build ourselves a whole room dedicated to sex and intimacy? For most of us, that’s not a reality. However we can make changes to sexify the space we do have! In this quickie episode, you’ll hear my ten tips to create a more sensual and inviting atmosphere in your bedroom. Research shows that those with the most enjoyable sex life, set up their environment for sex with intention. Choose from - moody lighting, mirrors, props, privacy and more - to level up your bedroom for better sex. Learn more about these topicsForeplay IdeasCreate the mood you enjoySexy playlistLubeBlog: Ten tips for a better bedroomJOIN my Newsletter Community.FOLLOW on Instagram.VISIT my Website.CALL or TEXT to submit a question: 1-714- 455-9149

Alex Liu, a health reporter and director of the documentary; A Sexplanation joins me for a conversation about why we need comprehensive sex ed. We talk about his experience growing up as a young gay man, the sexual silence and shame that almost destroyed him, and how he found freedom and belonging by going on a quest for the sex education he never got. We agree that there are a lot of questions about sex that are “unasked, unspoken and unanswered!” This episode will encourage individuals, partners and parents to ask, speak and answer those questions.Learn more about Alex and A SexplanationLearn more about these topicsWhy Sex Ed Really Matters with guest Kristen MarkMy letter to parents: You can be your child's sexual health educatorConversations Starters for Parenting PartnersChildhood sexual abuse prevention: 2 tools for parentsHelp! My child is starting sex ed at schoolJOIN my Newsletter Community.FOLLOW on Instagram.VISIT my Website.CALL or TEXT to submit a question: 1-714- 455-9149

Colleen Weeks and I continue our conversation and discuss the challenges and changes in the fourth trimester, the 3-month time period after birthing a baby. Topics include hormone changes, the 6-weeks suggested for healing, why you may need lubrication for sex, and how fatigue affects sexual arousal. We also dive into breastfeeding to answer some common questions, such as does breastfeeding work as birth control, and why milk leaks or spurts with sex. You’ll hear thoughts on parenting roles, the mental load and communication strategies between partners to help you navigate this often-overwhelming season of change.For more than 40 years, Colleen Weeks has passionately worked with childbearing women and their families as a Certified Childbirth, Lactation and Sex Educator, Certified Perinatal Bereavement Counselor and Maternal Mental Health Specialist. At Kaiser Permanente Orange County’s Anaheim and Irvine Medical Center’s she is the Perinatal Education manager. Colleen serves on the Family Violence Prevention team where she piloted an (ACE’s) Adverse Childhood Experience’s project and coordinates the FVPP Ambassador program.Learn more about these topicsWhy do I bleed after a baby (video)Lube. Lube. LubePain and SexSex After BabyWhat Pelvic Health Has To Do With Painful SexStretched-out Vaginas and Other MythsYour Body After BabyMental LoadLearning to Listen to Your BodyReclaim Your Arousal MindsetScheduling SexJOIN my Newsletter Community.FOLLOW on Instagram.VISIT my Website.CALL or TEXT to submit a question: 1-714- 455-9149

My long time colleague and friend Colleen Weeks joins me to talk about all things pregnancy. This episode is your private in-home education class! You'll hear information every person needs to know about hormones, sex in pregnancy, partner concerns, and all the changes a body goes through to grow and birth a whole human. One of the biggest changes Colleen has witnessed over the years, is the increasing lack of trust women have in their bodies and how they function. Our hope is that this conversation will you help you gain confidence to trust your body in pregnancy, and all the seasons of your life.*Don’t miss our next episode - Part Two: Sex, Postpartum and BreastfeedingFor more than 40 years, Colleen Weeks has passionately worked with childbearing women and their families as a Certified Childbirth, Lactation and Sex Educator, Certified Perinatal Bereavement Counselor and Maternal Mental Health Specialist. At Kaiser Permanente Orange County’s Anaheim and Irvine Medical Center’s she is the Perinatal Education manager. Colleen serves on the Family Violence Prevention team where she piloted an (ACE’s) Adverse Childhood Experience’s project and coordinates the FVPP Ambassador program.Learn more about these topicsSex After BabyLearning to Listen to Your BodyTaking your Body on a DateYour Body After BabyJOIN my Newsletter Community.FOLLOW on Instagram.VISIT my Website.CALL or TEXT to submit a question: 1-714- 455-9149

Dr. Hillary McBride joins me for a conversation about embodiment or as she defines it, “Our experience of being a body as it’s shaped by culture.” She provides tools to help us untangle the cultural scripts we have taken in, along with gentle guidance for how we can reframe and choose a healthier way to be in our body. You’ll hear how you can learn to listen to your body, embrace your sensuality and give yourself more permission for pleasure. Dr. Hillary McBride is a registered psychologist, a researcher, and podcaster. She is the author of: Mothers, Daughters, and Body Image: Learning to Love Ourselves as We Are  and The Wisdom of Your Body: Finding wholeness, healing and connection through embodied living.  She was the senior editor of the textbook Embodiment and Eating Disorders: Theory, Research, Prevention, and Treatment.   www.Hillarylmcbride.com Learn more about these topics:Mothers, Daughters and Body ImageDating Your Body The Body is Not an ApologyMy Letter to Young WomenJOIN my Newsletter Community.FOLLOW on Instagram.VISIT my Website.CALL or TEXT to submit a question: 1-714- 455-9149

Listen in to learn four techniques women use to increase pleasure during vaginal penetration. OMGyes, in partnership with Indiana University School of Medicine, conducted a nationally representative study of over 3000 women, and I share their results in this episode. Hear about shallowing, pairing, rocking, and angling - along with practical tips for each one. I also discuss how faking orgasm can undermine your pleasure and give conversation starters to open a discussion about it with a partner.Visit our episode sponsor Uberlube and use code CINDY for 15% offLearn more about these topicsPairing demoShallowing demoRocking demoThe clitoris - it’s a network!Questions about orgasmThe key to female pleasureMaude use code CINDY10Dame OMGyesCommunication, Couples & SexTalking with a partner about sexTalking About Sex (When Things Aren't Great)JOIN my Newsletter Community.FOLLOW on Instagram.VISIT my Website.CALL or TEXT to submit a question: 1-714- 455-9149

Have you and your partner experienced conflict over mismatched sexual desire or frequency? Have you ever asked yourself: why sex matters to you? Cyndi Darnell joins me to talk about the healthy questions to ask yourself for better sexual self-understanding - which can lead to better sex! Learn the truth about mismatched sexual desire, the problems that result when couples equate frequency with quality, and ideas for creating a more satisfying sex life. Cyndi Darnell is a clinical and somatic sexologist and author of Sex When You Don’t Feel Like It: The Truth About Mismatched Libido & Rediscovering Desire.Learn more about Cyndi’s workhttps://cyndidarnell.com/Learn more about these topics:Understanding Your Desire Style For Better SexPartner Sexual Desire DiscrepanciesSexual ScriptsSexual CommunicationJOIN my Newsletter Community.FOLLOW on Instagram.VISIT my Website.CALL or TEXT to submit a question: 1-714- 455-9149

Therapist Sam Tielemans joins me to discuss why we need to talk about pornography, not only in our relationships but also as parents with our kids. Part one of this conversation includes: information about unhealthy usage of pornography and that it usually isn’t about sex, what the average age of a child’s exposure is to porn (5:21), and how lies and deception break the attachment bond which may possibly cause betrayal trauma (8:25). We role play how to navigate the discussion with a partner and prompts to get you started (16:20).Sam Tielemans is a licensed marriage and family therapist that specializes in helping couples overcome the effect of unhealthy porn use in their relationship, to rebuild trust, and improve their sexual intimacy.Learn more about Sam's work:Coupleshealing.orgJOIN my Newsletter Community.FOLLOW on Instagram.VISIT my Website.CALL or TEXT to submit a question: 1-714- 455-9149

Therapist Sam Tielemans and I continue the conversation about pornography and specifically how it can affect relationships. We discuss the feelings women often experience when they discover their partner uses porn and why dealing with this issue alone is so difficult. Then we offer practical ways for couples to get started communicating as well as ideas for moving toward healing. Sam Tielemans is a licensed marriage and family therapist that specializes in helping couples overcome the effect of unhealthy porn use in their relationship, to rebuild trust, and improve their sexual intimacy.Learn more about Sam's work:Coupleshealing.orgJOIN my Newsletter Community.FOLLOW on Instagram.VISIT my Website.CALL or TEXT to submit a question: 1-714- 455-9149