Episodes

  • When romantic partners move in together, something they need to figure out is how to manage their finances. Will your money be shared or separate? And who will pay for what? These conversations can be tricky to navigate in general, but they become even more complex when you have multiple partners. In today’s episode, we’re going to dive into money management in polyamorous relationships. We’ll explore financial considerations for poly folks, the financial benefits of being polyamorous, and more.

    I am joined once again by Laura Boyle, author of the new book Monogamy? In this Economy? Sue runs a blog called Ready for Polyamory. Her first book titled, Ready for Polyamory: A Pragmatic Guide to Consensual Non-Monogamy, was released in 2021.

    Some of the specific questions we discuss include:

    Why are more and more people (including monogamous couples) keeping their finances separate today?What are the most common financial arrangements that polyamorous people make?How can poly folks successfully navigate conflicts around money?How do polyamorous people manage money when partners have drastically different incomes, expenses, and debts?What are some of the financial advantages to having multiple partners?

    You can learn more about Laura and her work by visiting her website. You can also follow her on the socials @readyforpolyamory.

    Got a sex question? Send me a podcast voicemail to have it answered on a future episode at speakpipe.com/sexandpsychology.

    ***

    Thank you to our sponsors!

    Xersizer is the world’s only FDA regulated hydropump and it provides a discreet and effective way to exercise an area of the body that’s neglected in the gym. To learn more and get a 20% discount off of your purchase, visit xersizer.com/SAP.

    ***

    Want to learn more about Sex and Psychology? Click here for previous articles or follow the blog on Facebook, Twitter, or Reddit to receive updates. You can also follow Dr. Lehmiller on YouTube and Instagram.

    Listen and stream all episodes on Apple, Spotify, Google, or Amazon. Subscribe to automatically receive new episodes and please rate and review the podcast!

    Credits: Precision Podcasting (Podcast editing) and Shutterstock/Florian (Music). Image created with Canva; photos used with permission of guest.

  • If you’ve never lived with multiple partners before, figuring out how to navigate this kind of situation can pose some challenges. For example, how do you determine where everyone will sleep? How do you navigate things like personal space, chores, and scheduling conflicts? In today’s show, we’re going to discuss practical tips on cultivating happy and harmonious living arrangements for polyamorous individuals.

    My guest is Laura Boyle, author of the new book Monogamy? In this Economy? Sue runs a blog called Ready for Polyamory. Her first book titled, Ready for Polyamory: A Pragmatic Guide to Consensual Non-Monogamy, was released in 2021.

    Some of the specific questions we answer in this episode include:

    What are the most common living arrangements for polyamorous folks?How can poly people navigate issues like leases, mortgages, and even biases from landlords that might make it difficult to live with more than one partner?How can “new relationship energy” complicate living situations?What are the most common conflicts that arise when a new partner moves in?

    You can learn more about Laura and her work by visiting her website. You can also follow her on the socials @readyforpolyamory.

    Got a sex question? Send me a podcast voicemail to have it answered on a future episode at speakpipe.com/sexandpsychology.

    ***

    Thank you to our sponsors!

    Are you looking for a space that celebrates diverse perspectives, explores new frontiers and brings all of your favorite people together? The Annual Sexological Conference hosted by Sexual Health Alliance is where sexuality leaders gather. Get your ticket to be inspired, educated, and empowered. Head over to SexualHealthAlliance.com, select the Annual Sexological Conference page and save your spot today!

    The Kinsey Institute at Indiana University has been a trusted source for scientific knowledge and research on critical issues in sexuality, gender, and reproduction for over 75 years. Learn about more research and upcoming events at kinseyinstitute.org or look for them on social media @kinseyinstitute.

    ***

    Want to learn more about Sex and Psychology? Click here for previous articles or follow the blog on Facebook, Twitter, or Reddit to receive updates. You can also follow Dr. Lehmiller on YouTube and Instagram.

    Listen and stream all episodes on Apple, Spotify, Google, or Amazon. Subscribe to automatically receive new episodes and please rate and review the podcast!

    Credits: Precision Podcasting (Podcast editing) and Shutterstock/Florian (Music). Image created with Canva; photos used with permission of guest.

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  • We discussed sex tips for women in the previous episode, so today we have some tips for the guys. Some of the topics we’ll discuss include how to have stronger erections, what you need to know if you’re concerned about your penis size, as well as how to increase sexual pleasure. We’re also going to discuss common sexual concerns men have and how to address them.

    I am joined once again by Dr. Rena Malik, a board-certified urologist and sexuality educator. With over 300 million views and 2 million subscribers, her YouTube channel @RenaMalikMD has become a go-to destination for frank, evidence-based discussions of taboo topics. With a prolific portfolio boasting over 80 peer-reviewed publications, she has contributed to advancement and innovation in the field of urology.

    Some of the specific questions we answer in this episode include:

    If you experience delayed or absent orgasm during partnered sex, what can you do about this?What should you do if you find that condoms interfere with pleasure and sensation?What can you do if you want to have stronger and firmer erections?Are there any reliable ways to boost seminal volume?Is there anything that actually works in terms of increasing penis size?

    You can check out Rena’s website to learn more about her work.

    Got a sex question? Send me a podcast voicemail to have it answered on a future episode at speakpipe.com/sexandpsychology.

    ***

    Thank you to our sponsors!

    Xersizer is the world’s only FDA regulated hydropump and it provides a discreet and effective way to exercise an area of the body that’s neglected in the gym. To learn more and get a 20% discount off of your purchase, visit xersizer.com/SAP.

    The Kinsey Institute at Indiana University has been a trusted source for scientific knowledge and research on critical issues in sexuality, gender, and reproduction for over 75 years. Learn about more research and upcoming events at kinseyinstitute.org or look for them on social media @kinseyinstitute.

    ***

    Want to learn more about Sex and Psychology? Click here for previous articles or follow the blog on Facebook, Twitter, or Reddit to receive updates. You can also follow Dr. Lehmiller on YouTube and Instagram.

    Listen and stream all episodes on Apple, Spotify, Google, or Amazon. Subscribe to automatically receive new episodes and please rate and review the podcast!

    Credits: Precision Podcasting (Podcast editing) and Shutterstock/Florian (Music). Image created with Canva; photos used with permission of guest.

  • Female sexual pleasure is a topic that is not often covered in traditional sex education. In fact, it’s extraordinarily rare for the word “clitoris” to even be mentioned in sex ed! The unfortunate result is that many women (and their partners) never learn the information they really need to know. In today’s show, we’re diving into the sex ed you never got in school and discussing key facts about women’s sexual health and pleasure.

    My guest is Dr. Rena Malik, a board-certified urologist and sexuality educator. With over 300 million views and 2 million subscribers, her YouTube channel @RenaMalikMD has become a go-to destination for frank, evidence-based discussions of taboo topics. With a prolific portfolio boasting over 80 peer-reviewed publications, she has contributed to advancement and innovation in the field of urology.

    Some of the specific questions we answer in this episode include:

    What are some ways of making intercourse more pleasurable for women?How do you deal with a problem like sexual pain, and what are some common solutions for it?What can women do if they’re having trouble orgasming?What should women who are concerned with vaginal taste and smell know?What can you do to prevent vaginal infections?

    You can check out Rena’s website to learn more about her work.

    Got a sex question? Send me a podcast voicemail to have it answered on a future episode at speakpipe.com/sexandpsychology.

    ***

    Thank you to our sponsors!

    Are you looking for a space that celebrates diverse perspectives, explores new frontiers and brings all of your favorite people together? The Annual Sexological Conference hosted by Sexual Health Alliance is where sexuality leaders gather. Get your ticket to be inspired, educated, and empowered. Head over to SexualHealthAlliance.com, select the Annual Sexological Conference page and save your spot today!

    Whether you’re just a few dates in or have been together a long time, it’s time to lighten the mood and have fun with your partner by using Paired. Head over to paired.com/justin to get a 7-day free trial and 25% off if you sign up for a subscription.

    ***

    Want to learn more about Sex and Psychology? Click here for previous articles or follow the blog on Facebook, Twitter, or Reddit to receive updates. You can also follow Dr. Lehmiller on YouTube and Instagram.

    Listen and stream all episodes on Apple, Spotify, Google, or Amazon. Subscribe to automatically receive new episodes and please rate and review the podcast!

    Credits: Precision Podcasting (Podcast editing) and Shutterstock/Florian (Music). Image created with Canva; photos used with permission of guest.

  • Sex educators and researchers are often called upon to serve as expert witnesses in legal proceedings. This is particularly true in cases that center around kink or BDSM, consensual non-monogamy, and sexual or gender minorities. The job of the experts is to help judges and juries better understand the sexual issues at hand. In today’s show, I’m going to interview a colleague who has extensive experience serving as an expert witness. We’re going to talk about the some of the cases she’s been a part of, what the experience is like, and more.

    My guest is Dr. Elisabeth Sheff, a researcher, expert witness, coach, speaker, and educational consultant. Dr. Eli holds a PhD in Sociology and certification as a Sexuality Educator from AASECT. She has published four books, over 30 peer-reviewed journal articles and chapters, and is currently editing a series of books on relationship and sexual diversity.

    Some of the specific questions we answer in this episode include:

    How do you decide which legal cases to get involved in?What are some reasons why you might not take a particular case?What kinds of legal issues come up for non-monogamous individuals that would require an expert witness?What are some of the legal issues that come up in the context of kink and BDSM?Given that consent is not a valid legal defense for injuries that arise during sex, what do kinky folks need to know with respect to avoiding potential legal peril?

    You can visit Dr. Eli’s website to learn more about her work.

    Got a sex question? Send me a podcast voicemail to have it answered on a future episode at speakpipe.com/sexandpsychology.

    ***

    Thank you to our sponsors!

    The Kinsey Institute at Indiana University has been a trusted source for scientific knowledge and research on critical issues in sexuality, gender, and reproduction for over 75 years. Learn about more research and upcoming events at kinseyinstitute.org or look for them on social media @kinseyinstitute.

    ***

    Want to learn more about Sex and Psychology? Click here for previous articles or follow the blog on Facebook, Twitter, or Reddit to receive updates. You can also follow Dr. Lehmiller on YouTube and Instagram.

    Listen and stream all episodes on Apple, Spotify, Google, or Amazon. Subscribe to automatically receive new episodes and please rate and review the podcast!

    Credits: Precision Podcasting (Podcast editing) and Shutterstock/Florian (Music). Image created with Canva; photos used with permission of guest.

  • A lot of us aren’t getting what we really want in bed. For example, there might be certain positions, activities, or techniques that you prefer or enjoy, but you aren’t quite sure how to ask for them. So in today’s show, we’re going to talk about how to get more of what you want. Some of the topics we’ll explore include practical tips for sharing your sexual desires, tips for introducing a kink or fetish into a relationship, as well as tips for normalizing conversations about sex in general.

    I am joined once again by Dr. Elisabeth Gordon. She is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in sexual health. She maintains a New York City based private practice and is also an educator, speaker, researcher, and writer dedicated to advancing sexual health. She has taught at multiple academic institutions around the world, and is a frequent commentator on sexual health topics in the popular media.

    Some of the specific questions we answer in this episode include:

    How do you go about uncovering your sexual likes and dislikes in the first place?When is the right time to talk to your partner about trying something new in the bedroom?What are some tips for communicating about kinks with a new partner?What should you do when you and your partner have different sexual fantasies and desires?How can you encourage a partner to share their sexual wants with you?

    You can check out Elisabeth’s website to learn more about her work.

    Got a sex question? Send me a podcast voicemail to have it answered on a future episode at speakpipe.com/sexandpsychology.

    ***

    Thank you to our sponsors!

    Passionate about building a career in sexuality? Check out the Sexual Health Alliance. With SHA, you’ll connect with world-class experts and join an engaged community of sexuality professionals from around the world. Visit SexualHealthAlliance.com and start building the sexuality career of your dreams today.

    Xersizer is the world’s only FDA regulated hydropump and it provides a discreet and effective way to exercise an area of the body that’s neglected in the gym. To learn more and get a 20% discount off of your purchase, visit xersizer.com/SAP.

    ***

    Want to learn more about Sex and Psychology? Click here for previous articles or follow the blog on Facebook, Twitter, or Reddit to receive updates. You can also follow Dr. Lehmiller on YouTube and Instagram.

    Listen and stream all episodes on Apple, Spotify, Google, or Amazon. Subscribe to automatically receive new episodes and please rate and review the podcast!

    Credits: Precision Podcasting (Podcast editing) and Shutterstock/Florian (Music). Image created with Canva; photos used with permission of guest.

  • Sexual conflict is inevitable in long-term relationships. It’s virtually impossible for partners to always be erotically in synch with one another at all times over the course of many years together. That’s why everyone fights about sex from time to time. In today’s show, we’re going to explore the most common sexual conflicts that arise in long-term relationships, as well as practical tips on how to solve them.

    My guest is Dr. Elisabeth Gordon. She is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in sexual health. She maintains a New York City based private practice and is also an educator, speaker, researcher, and writer dedicated to advancing sexual health. She has taught at multiple academic institutions around the world, and is a frequent commentator on sexual health topics in the popular media.

    Some of the topics we cover in this episode include:

    What’s the most common sex fight?What should you do when one partner wants more sex than the other?How do you tell your partner that you want them to initiate sex more often?What are some ways to tell your partner that the sex you’re having isn’t meeting your needs?How do you deal with a selfish lover?What should you do when masturbation and/or porn use become conflict areas in a relationship?

    You can check out Elisabeth’s website to learn more about her work.

    Got a sex question? Send me a podcast voicemail to have it answered on a future episode at speakpipe.com/sexandpsychology.

    ***

    Thank you to our sponsors!

    Whether you’re just a few dates in or have been together a long time, it’s time to lighten the mood and have fun with your partner by using Paired. Head over to paired.com/justin to get a 7-day free trial and 25% off if you sign up for a subscription.

    ***

    Want to learn more about Sex and Psychology? Click here for previous articles or follow the blog on Facebook, Twitter, or Reddit to receive updates. You can also follow Dr. Lehmiller on YouTube and Instagram.

    Listen and stream all episodes on Apple, Spotify, Google, or Amazon. Subscribe to automatically receive new episodes and please rate and review the podcast!

    Credits: Precision Podcasting (Podcast editing) and Shutterstock/Florian (Music). Image created with Canva; photos used with permission of guest.

  • Today, more people identify as LGBTQ+ than ever before. However, this is largely due to a big increase in the number of persons identifying as bisexual. So in this episode, we’re going to dive into a recent study published in The Journal of Sex Research that investigates the rise in bisexuality over time. We’ll discuss different ways of defining and measuring bisexuality, why women seem more likely to be bisexual than men, and much more.

    My guest is Martin Monto, a Professor of Sociology at University of Portland specializing in the intersection between gender, sexuality, and public health, with an additional focus on society’s impact on the natural environment. Monto has an extensive publication record focusing on social aspects of sexuality and the sex industry, including notable publications on sex buyers, webcam users, “hooking up,” and bisexuality.

    Some of the topics we cover in this episode include:

    What are some of the different ways that scientists have defined bisexuality?How many people today identify as gay, lesbian, or bisexual—and how have these numbers changed over time?With the rise in bisexual identification, has there also been a rise in bisexual behavior?How do rates of bisexuality differ for older versus younger adults?Why might more women identify as bisexual than men?

    You can connect with Martin here.

    Got a sex question? Send me a podcast voicemail to have it answered on a future episode at speakpipe.com/sexandpsychology.

    ***

    Thank you to our sponsors!

    Passionate about building a career in sexuality? Check out the Sexual Health Alliance. With SHA, you’ll connect with world-class experts and join an engaged community of sexuality professionals from around the world. Visit SexualHealthAlliance.com and start building the sexuality career of your dreams today.

    Xersizer is the world’s only FDA regulated hydropump and it provides a discreet and effective way to exercise an area of the body that’s neglected in the gym. To learn more and get a 20% discount off of your purchase, visit xersizer.com/SAP.

    ***

    Want to learn more about Sex and Psychology? Click here for previous articles or follow the blog on Facebook, Twitter, or Reddit to receive updates. You can also follow Dr. Lehmiller on YouTube and Instagram.

    Listen and stream all episodes on Apple, Spotify, Google, or Amazon. Subscribe to automatically receive new episodes and please rate and review the podcast!

    Credits: Precision Podcasting (Podcast editing) and Shutterstock/Florian (Music). Image created with Canva; photos used with permission of guest. Heart photo by Jiroe (Matia Rengel) on Unsplash.

  • The penis doesn’t always do what you want it to do. For example, sometimes you might want an erection but can’t get one, or maybe you’ll reach orgasm faster than you’d like. These things happen. But when does a penis problem cross the line into becoming a sexual difficulty in need of treatment? That’s what we’re going to be exploring today. We’re going to talk about common male sexual health issues, including how they are clinically defined and treated, as well as tips for maintaining penile health as you age.

    I am joined once again by Melissa Hadley Barrett. Melissa is a nurse practitioner and sexologist, and the founder of Restorative Sexual Health Clinic and Restore Men’s Intimate Health. She is also co-founder of The Penis Project Podcast.

    Some of the specific questions we answer in this episode include:

    What is Peyronie’s disease, and how would someone know if they had it?What “counts” as having premature ejaculation?How can men last longer in bed?What’s the difference between a sexual dysfunction and a sexual disappointment?What are some different ways of dealing with erectile dysfunction?

    You can check out Melissa’s website and YouTube channel to learn more.

    Got a sex question? Send me a podcast voicemail to have it answered on a future episode at speakpipe.com/sexandpsychology.

    ***

    Thank you to our sponsors!

    The Kinsey Institute at Indiana University has been a trusted source for scientific knowledge and research on critical issues in sexuality, gender, and reproduction for over 75 years. Learn about more research and upcoming events at kinseyinstitute.org or look for them on social media @kinseyinstitute.

    ***

    Want to learn more about Sex and Psychology? Click here for previous articles or follow the blog on Facebook, Twitter, or Reddit to receive updates. You can also follow Dr. Lehmiller on YouTube and Instagram.

    Listen and stream all episodes on Apple, Spotify, Google, or Amazon. Subscribe to automatically receive new episodes and please rate and review the podcast!

    Credits: Precision Podcasting (Podcast editing) and Shutterstock/Florian (Music). Image created with Canva; photos used with permission of guest.

  • How much do you know about the penis? You may think you already know everything there is to know, but you probably don’t. That’s why today’s episode is going to dive into what you don’t know about the penis. Some of the topics we’re going to cover include the immense variability that exists in penile sensitivity and sensation, as well as what we know about multiple orgasms in men.

    My guest today is Melissa Hadley Barrett. Melissa is a nurse practitioner and sexologist, and the founder of Restorative Sexual Health Clinic and Restore Men’s Intimate Health. She is also co-founder of The Penis Project Podcast.

    Some of the questions we explore in this episode include:

    What is the average penis size?Why is flaccid penis size not necessarily a reliable predictor of erect size?If there aren’t any bones in the penis, can you still break or fracture an erection?What are the benefits of using vibrators for men’s sexual health and function?How common is it for men to experience erectile dysfunction?

    You can check out Melissa’s website and YouTube channel to learn more.

    Got a sex question? Send me a podcast voicemail to have it answered on a future episode at speakpipe.com/sexandpsychology.

    ***

    Thank you to our sponsors!

    Passionate about building a career in sexuality? Check out the Sexual Health Alliance. With SHA, you’ll connect with world-class experts and join an engaged community of sexuality professionals from around the world. Visit SexualHealthAlliance.com and start building the sexuality career of your dreams today.

    Xersizer is the world’s only FDA regulated hydropump and it provides a discreet and effective way to exercise an area of the body that’s neglected in the gym. To learn more and get a 20% discount off of your purchase, visit xersizer.com/SAP.

    ***

    Want to learn more about Sex and Psychology? Click here for previous articles or follow the blog on Facebook, Twitter, or Reddit to receive updates. You can also follow Dr. Lehmiller on YouTube and Instagram.

    Listen and stream all episodes on Apple, Spotify, Google, or Amazon. Subscribe to automatically receive new episodes and please rate and review the podcast!

    Credits: Precision Podcasting (Podcast editing) and Shutterstock/Florian (Music). Image created with Canva; photos used with permission of guest.

  • Was it consensual kink or sexual abuse? This question is at the heart of a growing number of legal cases. Unfortunately, people sometimes try to claim consensual kink as a cover for sexual violence, a trend my guest today refers to as “the bogus BDSM defense.” In this show, we’re going to dive into a few recent cases where the bogus BDSM defense has been deployed, as well as the signs that can help us to distinguish between consensual kink and sexual violence.

    I am joined once again by Andrea Zanin, author of the new book Post-Nonmonogamy and Beyond. They are also co-author of the new edition of the book More than Two. Andrea blogs at sexgeek.wordpress.com, and has authored a book chapter on the bogus BDSM defense.

    Some of the topics we cover in this episode include:

    What does the “bogus BDSM defense” look like?Is this defense ever successful in terms of avoiding conviction or leading to a reduced sentence?How does the bogus BDSM defense intersect with race and respectability politics?How can we prevent people from using claims of consensual kink as a cover for sexual violence?

    You can check out Andrea’s website to read more of their work.

    Got a sex question? Send me a podcast voicemail to have it answered on a future episode at speakpipe.com/sexandpsychology.

    ***

    Thank you to our sponsors!

    The Kinsey Institute at Indiana University has been a trusted source for scientific knowledge and research on critical issues in sexuality, gender, and reproduction for over 75 years. Learn about more research and upcoming events at kinseyinstitute.org or look for them on social media @kinseyinstitute.

    ***

    Want to learn more about Sex and Psychology? Click here for previous articles or follow the blog on Facebook, Twitter, or Reddit to receive updates. You can also follow Dr. Lehmiller on YouTube and Instagram.

    Listen and stream all episodes on Apple, Spotify, Google, or Amazon. Subscribe to automatically receive new episodes and please rate and review the podcast!

    Credits: Precision Podcasting (Podcast editing) and Shutterstock/Florian (Music). Image created with Canva; photos used with permission of guest.

  • When people become nonmonogamous, they don’t always stay nonmonogamous for life. Sometimes people decide to take a temporary break from it. Other times, people stop practicing it altogether because it’s just not what they want or need anymore. Maybe they only want to pursue one relationship right now, or perhaps they just want to be single. So what does a post nonmonogamous life look like? That’s what we’re going to be talking about in this episode.

    My guest today is Andrea Zanin, author of the new book Post-Nonmonogamy and Beyond. They are also co-author of the new edition of the book More than Two. Andrea blogs at sexgeek.wordpress.com, where they created the 10 Rules for Happy Nonmonogamy and coined the term “polynormativity.”

    Some of the topics we cover in this episode include:

    What does post nonmonogamy look like?What are the main reasons people become post-nonmonogamous?Is post-nonmonogamy a temporary or permanent state?In what ways can post-nonmonogamy be rewarding? In what ways it is challenging?

    You can check out Andrea’s website to read more of their work.

    Got a sex question? Send me a podcast voicemail to have it answered on a future episode at speakpipe.com/sexandpsychology.

    ***

    Thank you to our sponsors!

    Passionate about building a career in sexuality? Check out the Sexual Health Alliance. With SHA, you’ll connect with world-class experts and join an engaged community of sexuality professionals from around the world. Visit SexualHealthAlliance.com and start building the sexuality career of your dreams today.

    ***

    Want to learn more about Sex and Psychology? Click here for previous articles or follow the blog on Facebook, Twitter, or Reddit to receive updates. You can also follow Dr. Lehmiller on YouTube and Instagram.

    Listen and stream all episodes on Apple, Spotify, Google, or Amazon. Subscribe to automatically receive new episodes and please rate and review the podcast!

    Credits: Precision Podcasting (Podcast editing) and Shutterstock/Florian (Music). Image created with Canva; photos used with permission of guest.

  • A common theme in many people’s sexual fantasies is being “forced” to have sex. In the world of kink, this is widely known as consensual non-consent (CNC). So why is this such a popular sexual interest? In today’s show, we’re going to explore the psychology behind it. We’re also going to delve into some of the political aspects of CNC fantasies and discuss how the growing emphasis on affirmative and enthusiastic consent might paradoxically be making these fantasies more popular than ever.

    I am joined once again by Tina Horn, author of the new book Why Are People Into That?: A Cultural Investigation of Kink. This book is based on her long-running podcast of the same name. Tina is also a comic book writer and host of the Wondery phone sex podcast titled Operator.

    Some of the specific questions we answer in this episode include:

    What does a CNC fantasy look like?What are some reasons people might be into CNC?What is the role of fear in sexual arousal?Why do people often struggle with feelings of shame around CNC fantasies, and how can they come to terms with it?

    You can visit Tina’s website to learn more about her work.

    Got a sex question? Send me a podcast voicemail to have it answered on a future episode at speakpipe.com/sexandpsychology.

    ***

    Thank you to our sponsors!

    The Kinsey Institute at Indiana University has been a trusted source for scientific knowledge and research on critical issues in sexuality, gender, and reproduction for over 75 years. Learn about more research and upcoming events at kinseyinstitute.org or look for them on social media @kinseyinstitute.

    ***

    Want to learn more about Sex and Psychology? Click here for previous articles or follow the blog on Facebook, Twitter, or Reddit to receive updates. You can also follow Dr. Lehmiller on YouTube and Instagram.

    Listen and stream all episodes on Apple, Spotify, Google, or Amazon. Subscribe to automatically receive new episodes and please rate and review the podcast!

    Credits: Precision Podcasting (Podcast editing) and Shutterstock/Florian (Music). Image created with Canva; photos used with permission of guest.

  • People have the potential to develop fetishes for virtually anything. If you can think of it, somebody probably has a fetish for it! However, fetishes remain among the most misunderstood and stigmatized sexual interests. So in today’s show, we’re going to dive into the world of fetishes and dispel some common misconceptions about them. We’ll also discuss a new way of thinking about fetishes, as well as tips for how to communicate about fetish interests with a partner.

    My guest is Tina Horn, author of the new book Why Are People Into That?: A Cultural Investigation of Kink. This book is based on her long-running podcast of the same name. Tina is also a comic book writer and host of the Wondery phone sex podcast titled Operator.

    Some of the topics we cover in this episode include:

    What is the advantage of thinking about fetishes as “something I have a taste for?”Where do fetishes come from?How important is it to know where fetishes come from? Does their origin really matter?Does having a fetish necessarily involve an exclusive attraction to a specific object?How can people incorporate fetishes into their sex lives in a healthy way?

    You can visit Tina’s website to learn more about her work.

    Got a sex question? Send me a podcast voicemail to have it answered on a future episode at speakpipe.com/sexandpsychology.

    ***

    Thank you to our sponsors!

    Passionate about building a career in sexuality? Check out the Sexual Health Alliance. With SHA, you’ll connect with world-class experts and join an engaged community of sexuality professionals from around the world. Visit SexualHealthAlliance.com and start building the sexuality career of your dreams today.

    ***

    Want to learn more about Sex and Psychology? Click here for previous articles or follow the blog on Facebook, Twitter, or Reddit to receive updates. You can also follow Dr. Lehmiller on YouTube and Instagram.

    Listen and stream all episodes on Apple, Spotify, Google, or Amazon. Subscribe to automatically receive new episodes and please rate and review the podcast!

    Credits: Precision Podcasting (Podcast editing) and Shutterstock/Florian (Music). Image created with Canva; photos used with permission of guest.

  • Imagine for a moment that your partner told you they had a sexually transmitted infection. What should (and shouldn’t) you say or do in that situation? That’s what we’re going to be talking about in this episode: tips for navigating a partner’s STI disclosure. Some of the topics we’ll explore include tips for keeping the conversation productive and not perpetuating STI stigma, how to manage a relationship where one partner has an STI and the other doesn’t, and what it means when someone in a long-term relationship suddenly tests positive for an STI.

    I am joined once again Dr. Kayley McMahan, a sexual health scholar and educator. She serves as the Relationship and Sexual Violence Prevention Coordinator at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where she also teaches an undergraduate Human Sexuality class. Kayley recently co-authored a comprehensive review article in the Journal of Sex Research focused on STI disclosure.

    Some of the topics we cover in this episode include:

    When a parter discloses an STI, how do you keep the conversation positive and productive?How do you manage a herpes, HPV, or HIV infection in dating and relationships?Does a partner suddenly testing positive for an STI necessarily mean they were cheating?Where can people go to learn more about managing and treating STIs?

    You can find out more about Kayley here and connect with her on LinkedIn here.

    Got a sex question? Send me a podcast voicemail to have it answered on a future episode at speakpipe.com/sexandpsychology.

    ***

    Thank you to our sponsors!

    The Kinsey Institute at Indiana University has been a trusted source for scientific knowledge and research on critical issues in sexuality, gender, and reproduction for over 75 years. Learn about more research and upcoming events at kinseyinstitute.org or look for them on social media @kinseyinstitute.

    ***

    Want to learn more about Sex and Psychology? Click here for previous articles or follow the blog on Facebook, Twitter, or Reddit to receive updates. You can also follow Dr. Lehmiller on YouTube and Instagram.

    Listen and stream all episodes on Apple, Spotify, Google, or Amazon. Subscribe to automatically receive new episodes and please rate and review the podcast!

    Credits: Precision Podcasting (Podcast editing) and Shutterstock/Florian (Music). Image created with Canva; photos used with permission of guest.

  • A lot of people find it hard to talk to their partners about sex in general. But discussing sexually transmitted infections (STIs) specifically can be even more challenging. It is such a fraught topic that many people who have STIs don’t even tell their partners. That’s why I’ve put together a two-part series for you on STI disclosure. In today’s show, we’re going to discuss how to tell your partner you have an STI. In the next episode, we’re going to explore what to do when your partner tells you they have an STI.

    My guest today is Dr. Kayley McMahan, a sexual health scholar and educator. She serves as the Relationship and Sexual Violence Prevention Coordinator at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where she also teaches an undergraduate Human Sexuality class. Kayley recently co-authored a comprehensive review article in the Journal of Sex Research focused on STI disclosure.

    Some of the topics we cover in this episode include:

    At any given point in time, how many people have an STI?How many people who have an STI actually disclose this information?What are the main reasons people with STIs don’t tell their partners about their status?When is the right time to tell a partner that you have an STI?What are some strategies for bringing up the subject of STIs with a partner?

    You can find out more about Kayley here and connect with her on LinkedIn here.

    Got a sex question? Send me a podcast voicemail to have it answered on a future episode at speakpipe.com/sexandpsychology.

    ***

    Thank you to our sponsors!

    Whether you’re just a few dates in or have been together a long time, it’s time to lighten the mood and have fun with your partner by using Paired. Head over to paired.com/justin to get a 7-day free trial and 25% off if you sign up for a subscription.

    ***

    Want to learn more about Sex and Psychology? Click here for previous articles or follow the blog on Facebook, Twitter, or Reddit to receive updates. You can also follow Dr. Lehmiller on YouTube and Instagram.

    Listen and stream all episodes on Apple, Spotify, Google, or Amazon. Subscribe to automatically receive new episodes and please rate and review the podcast!

    Credits: Precision Podcasting (Podcast editing) and Shutterstock/Florian (Music). Image created with Canva; photos used with permission of guest.

  • “Life is short, have an affair.” That’s the tagline of Ashley Madison, the infamous online dating service that caters to married people who are looking to commit infidelity. Ever since its launch in 2002, it has been the subject of endless controversy, culminating in a widely reported data breech in 2015. A Netflix documentary series titled Ashley Madison: Sex, Lies, and Scandal recently premiered and it is fascinating! In today’s show we’re going to dive into this series and talk all about infidelity, including why so many people cheat in the first place.

    I am joined once again by Ashley Weller (who bears no relation to Ashley Madison). She is a Human Sexuality and Health Psychology Professor at Chapman University in Southern California. She also has a podcast called What’s your Position that tackles issues surrounding sexuality, relationships, life, and love from a comedic yet educational point of view.

    Some of the specific topics we explore include:

    How do men’s and women’s reasons for infidelity differ?Why are so many people willing to risk everything in order to have an affair?What impact did the Ashley Madison hack have on the company and its users?Why does Ashley Madison seem more popular than ever despite the hack that destroyed so many people’s lives?

    You can find Ashley on Instagram and check out more of her work by visiting her Linktree.

    Got a sex question? Send me a podcast voicemail to have it answered on a future episode at speakpipe.com/sexandpsychology.

    ***

    Thank you to our sponsors!

    The Kinsey Institute at Indiana University has been a trusted source for scientific knowledge and research on critical issues in sexuality, gender, and reproduction for over 75 years. Learn about more research and upcoming events at kinseyinstitute.org or look for them on social media @kinseyinstitute.

    ***

    Want to learn more about Sex and Psychology? Click here for previous articles or follow the blog on Facebook, Twitter, or Reddit to receive updates. You can also follow Dr. Lehmiller on YouTube and Instagram.

    Listen and stream all episodes on Apple, Spotify, Google, or Amazon. Subscribe to automatically receive new episodes and please rate and review the podcast!

    Credits: Precision Podcasting (Podcast editing) and Shutterstock/Florian (Music). Image created with Canva; photos used with permission of guest.

  • MILFs are having a moment. Sexy moms have been a fixture in the popular media for decades, but they’ve never been more popular than they are now. So what’s behind the appeal of the MILF? And is all of the attention they’re receiving objectifying or empowering to women? Today, we’re going to trace the history of hot moms in the popular media and explore the rise of the MILF. We’re also going to dive into season two of the popular dumpster fire of a television series known as MILF Manor (for a recap of season one, see episodes 223 and 224).

    My guest is Ashley Weller, a Human Sexuality and Health Psychology Professor at Chapman University in Southern California. She also has a podcast called What’s your Position which tackles issues surrounding sexuality, relationships, life, and love from a comedic yet educational point of view.

    Some of the specific topics we cover in this episode include:

    When did our cultural fascination with hot moms begin?What are the most common critiques of MILF portrayals in the media?How are broader changes in society and the social structure related to the rise in MILF popularity?How is season 2 of MILF Manor different from the first?How is MILF Manor changing the conversation about MILFs?

    You can find Ashley on Instagram and check out more of her work by visiting her Linktree.

    Got a sex question? Send me a podcast voicemail to have it answered on a future episode at speakpipe.com/sexandpsychology.

    ***

    Thank you to our sponsors!

    Xersizer is the world’s only FDA regulated hydropump and it provides a discreet and effective way to exercise an area of the body that’s neglected in the gym. To learn more and get a 20% discount off of your purchase, visit xersizer.com/SAP.

    ***

    Want to learn more about Sex and Psychology? Click here for previous articles or follow the blog on Facebook, Twitter, or Reddit to receive updates. You can also follow Dr. Lehmiller on YouTube and Instagram.

    Listen and stream all episodes on Apple, Spotify, Google, or Amazon. Subscribe to automatically receive new episodes and please rate and review the podcast!

    Credits: Precision Podcasting (Podcast editing) and Shutterstock/Florian (Music). Image created with Canva; photos used with permission of guest.

  • Physical intimacy is one of the keys to maintaining healthy and satisfying relationships. But I’m not just talking about sex. Non-sexual physical intimacy is just as important, if not more so! In today’s show, we’re going to explore why touch is so powerful and tips for introducing more touch into your relationships. We’ll also discuss why, paradoxically, intimate partners often retreat from touch at the times they need it the most—and how to deal with this.

    I am joined once again by Chris Maxwell Rose and Charlotte Mia Rose, the co-creators of PleasureMechanics.com. They have devoted their lives to generating online resources to support folks in cultivating more erotic pleasure, joy, and connection. They also run a podcast called Speaking of Sex with the Pleasure Mechanics.

    Some of the specific questions we answer in this episode include:

    Why do we need touch, and why are so many of us “touch-starved?”How can we open the door to intimate touch when we feel stressed?How can lovers experience more affection and physical intimacy in their relationships?What are some things that people can do to become better at both giving and receiving touch?

    To learn more, sign up for the Pleasure Mechanics Erotic Touch Mastery course.

    Got a sex question? Send me a podcast voicemail to have it answered on a future episode at speakpipe.com/sexandpsychology.

    ***

    Thank you to our sponsors!

    The Kinsey Institute at Indiana University has been a trusted source for scientific knowledge and research on critical issues in sexuality, gender, and reproduction for over 75 years. Learn about more research and upcoming events at kinseyinstitute.org or look for them on social media @kinseyinstitute.

    ***

    Want to learn more about Sex and Psychology? Click here for previous articles or follow the blog on Facebook, Twitter, or Reddit to receive updates. You can also follow Dr. Lehmiller on YouTube and Instagram.

    Listen and stream all episodes on Apple, Spotify, Google, or Amazon. Subscribe to automatically receive new episodes and please rate and review the podcast!

    Credits: Precision Podcasting (Podcast editing) and Shutterstock/Florian (Music). Image created with Canva; photos used with permission of guest.

  • Most people say that they find oral sex to be a pleasurable activity, but that doesn’t mean that people always enjoy giving or receiving it. A quick search on social media reveals countless posts from people reporting on bad experiences with oral sex, so let’s talk about how to have better oral. In today’s show, we’re going to explore tips and techniques for amazing oral sex. We’ll also discuss what to do if you find yourself getting bored giving oral sex, how to make sixty-nining fun, and so much more.

    My guests today are Chris Maxwell Rose and Charlotte Mia Rose, the co-creators of PleasureMechanics.com. They have devoted their lives to generating online resources to support folks in cultivating more erotic pleasure, joy, and connection. They also run a podcast called Speaking of Sex with the Pleasure Mechanics.

    Some of the specific questions we answer in this episode include:

    Why is the idea that there’s just one perfect recipe for oral sex a myth?How do you deal with common roadblocks that interfere with your ability to enjoy performing oral sex, such as boredom or discomfort?What are some new positions or approaches that can elevate your oral experiences?What should you do if oral sex feels like it has become a duty or obligation instead of something you love to do?What are the essential factors that make oral sex great?

    To learn more, sign up for the Pleasure Mechanics Oral Sex Mastery course.

    Got a sex question? Send me a podcast voicemail to have it answered on a future episode at speakpipe.com/sexandpsychology.

    ***

    Thank you to our sponsors!

    Xersizer is the world’s only FDA regulated hydropump and it provides a discreet and effective way to exercise an area of the body that’s neglected in the gym. To learn more and get a 20% discount off of your purchase, visit xersizer.com/SAP.

    ***

    Want to learn more about Sex and Psychology? Click here for previous articles or follow the blog on Facebook, Twitter, or Reddit to receive updates. You can also follow Dr. Lehmiller on YouTube and Instagram.

    Listen and stream all episodes on Apple, Spotify, Google, or Amazon. Subscribe to automatically receive new episodes and please rate and review the podcast!

    Credits: Precision Podcasting (Podcast editing) and Shutterstock/Florian (Music). Image created with Canva; photos used with permission of guest.