Navigating Relationships with Kristal DeSantis: Trauma-Informed Therapy and Modern Masculinity

In this episode, licensed marriage and family therapist Kristal DeSantis discusses her journey into the field of relational therapy and her creation of the strong model of relational therapy. She explores the complexities of modern relationships, including emotional safety, evolving gender roles, and the challenges of modern masculinity.

Kristal, who is also a certified trauma and sex therapy professional, shares insights from her book 'Strong, A Relationship Field Guide for the Modern Man.' Growing up in a cross-cultural household in Japan gave her unique perspectives on relationships, which were further shaped by her experiences in the U.S. She emphasizes the importance of understanding self-awareness, communication, and safety in building healthy relationships.

Additionally, Kristal addresses the impact of societal and media pressures on modern masculinity and offers advice for both men and women to foster stronger, more resilient partnerships.

00:00 Introduction to Kristal DeSantis

01:11 Kristal's Cross-Cultural Upbringing

03:48 Navigating American Dating Culture

05:20 The Birth of a Therapist

07:37 Developing the Strong Model of Relational Therapy

12:41 Challenges of Modern Masculinity

19:12 The Impact of Pornography on Relationships

22:51 The Importance of Communication in Relationships

23:32 Establishing Safety in Relationships

25:33 The Science of Safety in Relationships

27:28 Building Trust in Couples Therapy

28:12 Respect and Power Dynamics

29:54 The STRONG Model for Relationship Survival

30:42 Openness, Nurturing, and Generosity

32:45 Navigating Empty Nest Syndrome

44:07 The Importance of Fun and Intimacy

45:11 Personal Growth and Future Plans

Psychotherapist & Author | STRONG: A Relationship Field Guide for the Modern Man

Schedule a call: https://calendly.com/kristal-desantis

Speaker Website: www.strong.love

Therapy Website: www.austinstrongrbc.com

Instagram @atxtherapist

https://linktr.ee/atxtherapist

Exploring Intimacy, Pleasure, and Healing with Allie Andrews: Journey from People Pleasing to Sexual Empowerment

In this episode, intimacy and sex coach Allie Andrews delves into her journey from childhood curiosity about sex to becoming a certified sex and intimacy coach. Allie discusses her struggles with people-pleasing and using sex for validation, and how her background in dance, yoga, and holistic health shaped her understanding of embodiment and pleasure.

She highlights the importance of self-pleasure, communication, and finding balance between productivity and pleasure. Allie also talks about her experiences working with clients, the significance of discussing sexual desires openly, and the barriers to intimacy.

The discussion underscores the evolving nature of sexual desires and the transformative power of exploring one's sexuality in a safe and consensual environment.

00:00 Introduction to Allie's Journey

01:10 Formative Years and Family Influence

02:16 Health and Wellness Path

06:48 Transition to Sex and Intimacy Coaching

09:23 Challenges and Breakthroughs

11:40 The Importance of Open Conversations

23:08 Understanding and Embracing Desires

34:40 Barriers to Intimacy

38:12 Starting Point in Coaching

38:30 Discussing Boundaries and Preferences

39:12 Importance of Communication in Intimacy

42:07 Redefining Sex and Intimacy

47:08 Exploring Desires and Fantasies

53:12 Role Play and Erotic Art

59:05 Personal Growth and Future Plans

01:02:36 Maintaining Well-being as a Therapist

Socials:

https://www.instagram.com/iamallieandrews/ https://www.facebook.com/allieandrewscoaching/

Website:

https://www.allie-andrews.com/

Freebie:

https://allie-andrews.ac-page.com/sexy-conversation-cards

Inka Winter: Redefining Adult Entertainment with Holistic and Feminist Pornography

In this episode, we dive deep with Inka Winter, a pioneering filmmaker renowned for her work in neurotic cinema and the portrayal of sexuality. In addition to being a feminist porn director, Inka is a sex and relationship counselor with a profound commitment to authenticity and inclusivity.

She discusses her journey from growing up in a cult to becoming an advocate for holistic porn, emphasizing the importance of ethical production and nuanced storytelling. Inca also shares her views on the current state of the porn industry, the challenges of societal sex negativity, and the role of communication in healthy relationships.

00:00 Introduction to Inka Winter: A Visionary Filmmaker

01:21 Inka's Personal Journey and Influences

05:15 Defining Holistic and Ethical Porn

09:45 The Role of Education in Pornography

11:10 Inka's Approach to Counseling

12:58 Challenges and Self-Care in Counseling

17:42 Society's Sex Negativity and Education

21:04 The Importance of Communication in Relationships

25:38 Inka's Creative Process in Filmmaking

32:08 Insights into the Porn Industry

33:44 Algorithmic Challenges on Porn Platforms

34:39 Ethical Standards in Mainstream Porn

37:03 Fast Food vs. Gourmet Porn

40:56 The Role of Education in Understanding Porn

42:28 Age Verification and Data Privacy Concerns

51:37 The Complexity of Sexual Assault and Pornography

57:31 Diverse Representation in Porn

01:01:49 Future Projects and Personal Life

https://inkawinter.com/

https://forplayfilms.com/

https://www.instagram.com/inka.winter/

https://www.facebook.com/inka.winter.14

Navigating the Complexities of Sexual Health and Relationships with Dr. Karen Stewart

In this episode, Dr. Karen Stewart, a renowned clinical psychologist, sex therapist, and educator, shares insights from her extensive career dedicated to sexual health and relationship wellbeing.

Dr. Stewart discusses her formative years in a traditional Catholic family and how witnessing relationship issues among her peers inspired her career path. She outlines her approach to therapy, emphasizing the importance of building rapport and understanding individual histories to address sexual dysfunction and relationship challenges.

Dr. Stewart also explores topics such as the impact of early exposure to pornography, the implications of loneliness and modern dating, and how to navigate relationship challenges including infidelity and trauma.

Finally, she shares her personal strategies for maintaining mental and physical wellbeing while managing a demanding career.

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Karen Stewart

00:58 Early Life and Formative Years

02:49 Career Path and Shift to Psychology

05:16 Approach to Therapy and Client Interaction

08:49 Challenges in Couples Therapy

12:16 Dealing with Infidelity in Relationships

16:11 Navigating Life Milestones in Relationships

26:25 Impact of Pornography on Young Minds

30:50 Is Watching Porn Cheating?

31:32 The Rise of VR Porn

34:04 Masturbation vs. Relationship Intimacy

35:17 The Impact of Porn on Sexual Performance

38:15 The Business of Pornography

39:15 Parenting and Porn Education

42:10 The Effects of Loneliness and Social Isolation

45:21 Dealing with Rejection and Resilience

50:47 Addressing Sexual Trauma in Therapy

59:43 The Importance of Therapy and Self-Care

http://www.drkarenstewart.com/

Rediscovering Faith: Ana Murby's Journey from Struggle to Redemption

In this heartfelt podcast episode, Ana Murby from Connecticut opens up about her complex and inspiring life journey.

As a mother of five, Ana reflects on her upbringing in a Christian household and shares the challenges she faced due to her introverted nature and reluctance to question her faith. Her story takes a dramatic turn as she recounts her experiences with two failed marriages, emotional and physical hardships, and a period of rebellion away from her faith.

Ana describes how she rediscovered Christ and rebuilt her life, focusing on a Christ-centered approach to her third marriage and raising her children. She also shares her views on the church, societal norms, and the importance of transparency and communication, both in personal relationships and with God.

Ana's powerful narrative serves as a testimony to the transformative power of faith and the importance of resilience and self-reflection.

00:00 Introduction to Ana Murby

00:32 Formative Years and Early Beliefs

00:59 Questioning Faith and Personal Struggles

04:31 Rebellion and Return to Faith

11:40 Self-Worth and Body Image

20:19 Building a Christ-Centered Marriage

34:13 Navigating Youth Temptations

35:14 Creating Open Communication with Kids

36:24 Addressing Sensitive Topics

40:16 The Role of the Church in Discussing Sex

47:10 Personal Faith Journeys

54:17 Writing and Creative Pursuits

01:01:50 Advice for Those Seeking Faith

https://www.honestchristianconversations.com/

https://www.facebook.com/share/15q2tB68eT/?mibextid=wwXIfr

https://youtube.com/@honestchristianconversations?si=ROdWWqNX1unEMF-Y

https://substack.com/@anamurby

Dr. Carol Queen: Redefining Sexuality, Communication, and Pleasure

In this episode, pioneering sexologist Dr. Carol Queen discusses her trailblazing contributions to the field of sexual health and pleasure.

With decades of experience in research, public speaking, and sex-positive activism, Dr. Queen shares her insights on how society views and discusses sexuality. She delves into her formative years, the importance of better sex education, and the necessity of exploring one's sexual identity without judgment.

Dr. Queen also emphasizes the significance of communication in intimate relationships and the holistic approach needed for sexual wellness, especially during life changes such as menopause. Her inspiring narrative encourages individuals to redefine intimacy and pleasure in modern culture.

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Carol Queen

01:18 Formative Years and Early Influences

06:40 Sex Education and Personal Experiences

16:35 The Importance of Masturbation and Self-Exploration

26:24 Redefining Sex and Pleasure

41:30 Understanding the Orgasm Gap

41:48 Sex Education and Misconceptions

43:20 Hormones and Sexual Pleasure

45:04 Menopause and Sexual Health

56:34 The Importance of Communication in Relationships

01:04:34 Historical Perspectives on Sexuality

01:08:46 Self-Care and Mental Wellbeing

01:15:49 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Christina Braver: Romance Writing, Sex Positivity, and Authentic Relationships

In this episode, Christina Braver, an author known for her Steamy Small Town contemporary romance novels set in the Pacific Northwest, delves into her journey from a clinical psychologist and healthcare technology worker to a romance novelist.

Christina emphasizes the importance of depth and authenticity in her writing, highlighting her passion for representing passionate heroes with strong and soft sides, and heroines navigating societal challenges. She discusses the significance of real and open sexual relationships in her books, the importance of communication in relationships, combating toxic masculinity, and promoting sex positivity.

Christina also touches upon how romance novels can enhance real-life relationships, offering advice on how to talk about sex, fantasies, and pleasure. She concludes by sharing her process of balancing professional writing with family life and the motivation behind her work.

00:00 Introduction to Christina Braver

01:18 Christina's Journey to Writing

03:15 Writing Explicit Romance

05:49 Character Development in Romance Novels

08:43 Sex Positivity and Realistic Portrayals

12:02 Communicating About Sex and Pleasure

31:46 Exploring Fantasies and Safe Spaces

39:25 The Realities of Sexual Expectations

39:50 Navigating Sexual Boundaries and Communication

42:39 Insights from the BDSM Community

43:32 The Importance of Consent and Communication

47:48 Diverse Representation in Romance Novels

51:11 The Rise of Fantasy and Science Fiction in Romance

53:17 Personal Reflections and Autobiographical Elements

57:06 Vacation Romance and Its Unique Dynamics

01:06:39 Supporting Men in Modern Relationships

01:08:46 Balancing Writing and Personal Wellbeing

01:11:31 Upcoming Book Release and Final Thoughts

http://www.christinabraver.com/

https://www.instagram.com/christinabraverromance/

https://www.facebook.com/christina.braver.1/

https://www.tiktok.com/@christinabraverromance

Transformative Conversations: Exploring Authenticity, Pleasure, and Higher Love with Astra Soulfeather

In this insightful episode, visionary coach, speaker, and trauma-informed healer Astra Soulfeather discusses their holistic approach to sexuality, intimacy, and personal empowerment through their platform, Higher Love.

Astra shares personal stories of trauma and spiritual awakening, emphasizing the significance of mindfulness, intention, and authentic self-expression in transformative journeys. Topics include the impact of trauma, the importance of understanding and embracing one's own sexuality, the challenge and benefits of non-monogamous relationships, the role of pornography, and the necessity of constant communication and presence in relationships.

The episode concludes with Astra highlighting the importance of recognizing one’s value and the power of purposeful service in personal and professional healing work.

00:00 Introduction to Astra Soulfeather

01:00 Formative Experiences and Trauma

02:55 Spiritual Awakening and Transformation

07:41 The Practice of Spirituality

12:42 Higher Love and Relationship Dynamics

17:44 Intergenerational Trauma and Healing

25:24 The Role of Guides and Healers

33:21 The Liberation Pledge and Personal Transformation

46:20 Authentic Intimacy and Sexuality

54:59 Exploring Pleasure Beyond Sex

55:53 The Importance of Desire and Receiving

56:31 Sexuality as a Reflection of Self

59:01 Redefining Pleasure and Intimacy

01:07:43 The Role of Pornography in Sexual Education

01:18:02 Navigating Sexual Desires and Fantasies

01:26:14 Monogamy vs. Non-Monogamy

01:33:53 The Importance of Communication in Relationships

01:40:31 Balancing Personal Wellbeing and Helping Others

Astra Soulfeather's Website

https://www.higherlove.co/pledge