Beyond the Bedroom

I break down real questions students ask me as a university-level sex educator, including: STI scares, awkard roommate encounters, drunk hookups, and how to survive being slut shamed.  This episode reveals what's really happening on campus and why it matters for everyone, not just students. Most people never get comprehensive sex ed, so I've also compiled my top tips for healthy, safer intimacy for young adults.   UNBOUND: My favorite toys, use code BBIRNA at UnboundBabes.com/birna-gustafsson for 10% your purchase WISP: Pharmacy and Wellness, use code BBIRNA at hellowisp.com for 15% off your first purchaseBonus content, including full-length extra episodes, available for members at beyondwithbirna.com

NEW: Watch on YouTube! You've heard it a HUNDRED TIMES- just communicate, go explore! What does that mean? Where do you even start?  In this episode of Beyond the Bedroom with Birna, I break down how to actually improve your sex life long-term in three solid steps. I guide you through where to begin exploring and how to tell your partner(s) what you really, really want.    This episode will help you get out of that rut and kickstart your journey from good to great in bed (and beyond!).  Don't miss out! Bonus content at beyondwithbirna.com  Affiliates:  UNBOUND: My favorite toys, use code BBIRNA at UnboundBabes.com/birna-gustafsson for 10% your purchase WISP: Pharmacy and Wellness, use code BBIRNA at hellowisp.com for 15% off your first purchase Find me on Instagram and Threads @beyondbedroompodcast Full archive and articles at beyondthebedroom.org BONUS content at beyondwithbirna.com

NEW: WATCH ON YOUTUBE @ BEYONDBEDROOMPODCAST! Did you just say "Mommy?" Mistress Lauren joins Beyond the Bedroom for a candid chat about what domming actually is (and isn't). We answer listener questions about how to enjoy telling people what to do and receiving the care you deserve. Plus, domming from the bottom, why so many people insist they're not REALLY into it (but they are). Plus, of course, some tales from the dungeon.  Don't miss out on a whole BONUS HOUR with Lauren, just for members at beyondwithbirna.com  Mistress Lauren can be found on TikTok and X @ cherrybb333  For longer show notes and more info head to beyondthebedroom.org  

A Valentine's Day special! Birna plays the couple's question game "Pillow Talk," now available for free on beyondthebedroom.com/games  Check out all show notes, discount codes, and transcripts at beyondthebedroom.org  Try Wisp for Birth Control, OMG Cream, Period Relief, and more

Some politicians want you to believe that sex is determined at conception—but that's not how biology works. In this mini episode, I break down the science of gestational development, debunk the dangerous myth of "sex at conception," and explain how this misinformation fuels anti-trans and anti-choice policies. I also unpack Trump's 2025 executive orders targeting reproductive rights, gender-affirming care, and public health. What do these laws mean for trans and nonbinary people? How do they impact abortion access? And how can we fight back? Amidst the frustration, I'm also bringing a message of hope and solidarity because science, community, and advocacy are on our side. Check my discount codes, ask a question, or reach out on beyondthebedroom.org

To cheer us all up, Birna reacts to some fun and quirky questions from r/sex on Reddit. Topics include cockwarming, post-orgy guilt, and a drunk best friend begging to see a couple's sex tape.  For show notes, articles, and transcripts check out beyondthebedroom.org  Use code BBIRNA for a discount on all my favorite things at unboundbabes.com  

Birna reviews the film "Babygirl" and discusses the kinky themes and layered characters. Plus, listeners's questions about communication and whether our childhoods can shape what we're into.  Check out all affiliate links and show notes on beyondthebedroom.org

Birna reviews intimate resolutions submitted by listeners. Topics include better solo play, sober sex, honest communication, and much more. Plus, she shares her own resolutions for the year, including how to slow down her sex life.  Check out beyondthebedroom.org for show notes, discount codes, and how to submit anonymous questions or voicemails for the podcast. To get a discount on my favorite sex toys, use code BBIRNA at Unboundbabes.com on any purchase. My favorites are Ollie, Puff, and Flick. Treat yourself in the new year and support Beyond the Bedroom!

This special bonus episode is full of holiday-themed listener questions, plus Birna's sex predictions for the new year! Longer show notes and transcriptions can be found on beyondthebedroom.org To get a discount on my favorite sex toys, use code BBIRNA at Unboundbabes.com on Flick, Ollie, or any other purchase Check out other links and submit a question and your new year's resolution: https://linktr.ee/bbirna

What should you do if you got the HPV vaccine but then had an abnormal pap? How do you gift lingerie without sending the wrong message?  In this episode, Birna breaks down new HPV data, lists the do's and don'ts of gifting sexy items, &  helps a listener talk to his girlfriend about her less-than-stimulating oral skills. Longer show notes and transcriptions can be found on beyondthebedroom.org To get a discount on my favorite sex toys, use code BBIRNA at Unboundbabes.com on Flick, Ollie, or any other purchase Check out other links and submit a question or confession: https://linktr.ee/bbirna

What counts as unprotected if we both have vaginas? How do I handle a harness? Is scissoring real?? This week is all about vulva-to-vulva action, but you don't need to be a participant to enjoy this episode! Whether you're a seasoned pro, a curious newbie, or a total outsider with questions, I'll answer your questions all about V2V, lesbian, sapphic sex.  Longer show notes and transcriptions can be found on beyondthebedroom.org To get a discount on my favorite sex toys, use code BBIRNA at Unboundbabes.com on Flick, Ollie, or any other purchase Check out other links and submit a question or Halloween confession: https://linktr.ee/bbirna

Masks, tentacles, and roleplay, oh my!  This mini-episode also answers listener questions re: sex magic, monster toys, and fantasizing about something against your values (spooky!!)   To get a discount on my favorite sex toys, use code BBIRNA at Unboundbabes.com on Flick, Ollie, or any other purchase Check out other links and submit a question or Halloween confession: https://linktr.ee/bbirna

Is it just me, or are there ads for erectile dysfunction meds everywhere lately? I investigate what this cultural shift means for male sexuality in the US. Plus, I answer listener questions about female Viagra, performance anxiety, and gimmicky ED supplements.    To get a discount on my favorite sex toys, use code BBIRNA at Unboundbabes.com on Flick or any other purchase! Check out other links and submit a questions or Halloween confession: https://linktr.ee/bbirna

Challengers hit theaters and suddenly everyone wants two boyfriends and tennis lessons, and I don't blame them. I give my two cents on the film (minimal spoilers—don't worry!), discuss whether Gen Z really hates sex scenes, and answer questions about DP, sexting, and "overperforming" in bed.  Recorded at Studio Friends in Tribeca, NYC  To get a discount on my favorite sex toys, use code BBIRNA at Unboundbabes.com on any purchase. Ollie and Puff are my top picks from Unbound!  Check out other links, send me a question, and submit a confession: https://linktr.ee/bbirna

So, you've tried everything, but you're still not "getting there." In this episode, you'll learn about the possible causes of female anorgasmia and how to make adjustments to facilitate pleasure.  Subscribe to birna.substack.com for my newsletter, On the Nightstand for bonus content  Use code BBIRNA at Unboundbabes.com for a discount on my favorite toys Use code BBIRNA at furyou.com on body and grooming products Find me on IG, Threads, and Tiktok @bbirna  Check out more (chat with me on Sunroom!) or submit anon confessions and questions at linktr.ee/bbirna

I discuss the history of the prosthetic scrotum I saw at the spy museum, which sent me down a rabbit hole of sexual relations in intel operations.  Plus: evolutionary theories on curved penises, why caffeine makes some people super horny, and my biggest dating "icks"  Subscribe to birna.substack.com for my newsletter, On the Nightstand  Use code BBIRNA at Unboundbabes.com for a discount on my favorite sex toys! Ollie + Bender are amazing.  Use code BBIRNA at furyou.com on body and grooming products Find me on IG, Threads, and Tiktok @bbirna  Check out more (chat with me on Sunroom!) or submit anon confessions and questions at linktr.ee/bbirna

Another cozy Q&A episode answering anonymous questions about penetration, flogging, negotiating something sexy, and the relationship between vaping and ED. A mixed bag of topics with plenty of personal details and hot takes dotted throughout.  Subscribe to birna.substack.com for my newsletter, On the Nightstand  Use code BBIRNA at Unboundbabes.com for a discount on some of the best sex toys on the market  Use code BBIRNA at furyou.com on body and grooming products Find me on IG, Threads, and Tiktok @bbirna  Check out more or submit anon confessions and questions at linktr.ee/bbirna  

You asked, I answered. Except this time, I surveyed my friends (of the real-life and internet variety) to help me with some topics. Here's what my circle is chatting about this week: What are some modern-day don'ts when it comes to flirting? How can I tell if I want an open relationship or just enjoy the thrill of cheating? Why does prostate pleasure still weird us out? & more on condoms, lesbian sex, and daily life.  Subscribe to birna.substack.com for my newsletter, On the Nightstand  Use code BBIRNA at Unboundbabes.com for a discount! You know my favorite, Ollie, is an Unbound wand! Use code BBIRNA at furyou.com for a discount on some amaaaazing grooming and body products! I love their trimmer.  Find me on IG, Threads, and Tiktok @bbirna  Check out more or submit anon confessions and questions at linktr.ee/bbirna  

What's it like running a sex shop? I sat down with my former boss, Saga Lluvia, owner of the sex toy store Losti in Iceland, to chat about peddling pleasure. We answered listener questions about the types of customers we encountered, the toys we recommend, and so much more.  Sub to my newsletter birna.substack.com for more sex ed content  Use code BBIRNA at Unboundbabes.com for a discount on sex toys (my fav is Ollie, wand mentioned in this pod) and to support the pod Use code BBIRNA at furyou.com for a discount on all personal care products on their site  Find Saga and Losti on instagram at @losti.is or buy online (within Iceland) at Losti.is  Saga's podcast "Losti" is this vibe but in Icelandic (and we share erotic stories!)   

Love is Blind may be reality TV, but the conversations about birth control, sexual values, and red flags are sparking real-life debates. We recap the show up until the last two episodes and ask ourselves: Is love really blind, and is love always enough?  Saga Lluvia, the owner of sex shop Losti, joins in as an avid watcher and gives her perspective as someone in the sex ed space.  Use code BBIRNA at Unboundbabes.com for a discount and to support the pod.  Use code BBIRNA at furyou.com for 15% off and to support the pod!  Follow me on socials (IG, TT, Threads) @bbirna and sign up for the On the Nightstand newsletter for free at birna.substack.com  

This week is a mix of serious and fun topics (isn't it always?) as I work through how reproductive rights restrictions are limiting our desire. Plus, I swap stories with listeners while answering the question, "Have you ever had crazy sexual chemistry with someone, and it surprised you?"  Use code BBIRNA at Unboundbabes.com for a discount and support the podcast Use code BBIRNA at furyou.com for a 15% discount on all products from Fur (grooming, body care, trimmers, and more!)  Leave a message for the podcast through the link in my IG bio (@bbirna) or DM me there with any questions you want answered in a future episode. 

The spiciest episode of the relaunch (so far)!! Enjoy this special edition of Beyond the Bedroom, answering all the spicy, steamy, fun questions I get from listeners. Bonus: lightning round of my favorite confessions of the week. Happy Valentine's Day!  Plus, how-to's on keeping sex tapes safe, buying a powerful toy, and initiating that threesome with an eager friend.  Use code BBIRNA at Unboundbabes.com for a discount and support the podcast (products mentioned this episode: Bender & Ollie)   Use code BBIRNA at furyou.com for a 15% discount on all products from Fur (grooming, body care, trimmers, and more!)  Leave a message for the podcast through the link in my IG bio (@bbirna) or DM me there with any questions you want answered in a future episode.   

This episode is all about ejaculation; I discuss both how it happens and how people feel about it. Does pineapple really improve the taste? Why do people shoot it at different speeds? Are breeding kinks real? What's the deal with blue balls? All of these listener questions are answered & more.  Leave a message for the podcast through the link in my IG bio (@bbirna) or DM me there with any questions you want answered in a future episode.    Use code BBIRNA at Unboundbabes.com for a discount and support the podcast.    Find me on socials (IG, Tiktok, Threads) @bbirna    Check out my free newsletter "On the Nightstand" with optional paid bonus content by signing up at birna.substack.com       

Welcome back! I discuss the public perceptions of squirting by diving into my comment section and finding the nuance of "hate sex."  Use code BBIRNA at Unbound to support the pod and shop with a discount! Products mentioned: Ollie (wand) and Puff (suction toy)  Find me on socials @bbirna (IG, Tiktok, Threads)  Check out "On the Nightstand," my free newsletter with optional paid bonus content by signing up at birna.substack.com 

Why did period underwear company Thinx get sued? Are my menstrual products toxic? And what the F are PFAS? In this episode, I answer these questions and more as it relates to the ongoing class action lawsuit against Thinx. I also give my advice as someone working in reproductive public health and who owned a few pairs myself.  This podcast episode is sponsor/ad free. If you'd like to support the pod, check out linktr.ee/bbirna for my links, or pay a visit of beyondthebedroom.org  Choose from four flirty games to try for free at beyondthebedroom.org/games  IG for the pod: beyondbedroompodcast  All personal socials: bbirna  Have a sex question? Email me bbsexed@gmail.com 

What pulled you in, and what pushed you away? Is an orgasm a requirement for a second go-around? I review my audience's poll answers and share some fun stories about first-time hookups gone wrong.  Use code BIRNA10 for 10% off your Maude purchase at getmaude.com Learn more about your sexual wellbeing at beyondthebedroom.org  Check out my Instagram and tiktok @bbirna, follow the pod @beyondbedroompodcast for updates on new episodes.   

Mal joins me as we share some fun yet insightful commentary on how corporations take up space during Pride Month. Use code BIRNA10 for 10% off your Maude purchase at getmaude.com  Learn more about your sexual wellbeing at beyondthebedroom.org  Check out mal at @malcolmaldrich and me at @bbirna, follow the pod @beyondbedroompodcast for updates on new episodes. 

Hold on- an app that can give your strap on an erection?? When I heard about the VDOM I knew I had to have Glenise on the show and pick her brain. We chat about sex AI, how to engineer a sex toy, and how Atlanta shaped the development of her groundbreaking device.  Pre-order or learn more about Glenise at: thevdom.com They are on Instagram @the.vdom  Check me out @bbirna or @beyondbedroompodcast  beyondthebedroom.org 

Do men want sex more than women? Do they actually bond with their partners less? Let's dive into some myths about men, as dismantling them makes sex way better (for all of us).  Support this podcast and get a discount at getmaude.com with code BIRNA10  Check out my sex ed courses: beyondthebedroom.org  Book a session with me: birna.net 

Scottie Jeanette joins me on Trans Day of Visibility to shed light on coming out as trans after years of a gut-wrenching journey.  Check out her TedX Talk, books, and more on  https://www.zuzubean.com/ Join me in celebrating Transgender Day of Visibility by checking out glaad.org/transgender/resources or matching my donation to Sylvia Rivera Law Project.  Contact me at birna.net  Check out my free ten-day program at beyondthebedroom.org 

I chat with artist and breakout OF star Susie Stellar about pussy eating, polyamory, the politics of squirting, and more - you don't want to miss this juicy episode!  Her Links: Twitter, onlyfans, and TikTok (google Susie Stellar for more) Shop Maude with 10% off with BIRNA10  Check out my free ten-day program and more sex ed at beyondthebedroom.org Play free couples games here

What happens at pelvic floor physical therapy? BTW- you can now watch this episode on youtube! I'll also chat about if penis size really matters, what my male clients are dealing with, and the latest sex ed drama here in Iceland (we need a "real housewives" show here stat). Use my code BIRNA10 at getmaude.com for a discount on something juicy. 

We can't always predict the future, but sometimes it's good to take off those rose-tinted glasses and see those warning signs. I open up about red flags I regret not noticing, along with some things to look out for in your own behavior! 10-day program: Beyond the Bedroom Book a session with me: birna.net BIRNA10 at Maude: getmaude.com Foria Wellness sex cbd: Use this link Free couple's game: BB Games

Ten Days of Pleasure is coming to an end, so I'm sending you off with a little introspective game to use all the tools you've learned! I put so much love into this project, and I hope you've enjoyed this time with yourself. Congrats, you did it! Find the videos and journal prompts for this program on:  beyondthebedroom.org 

Is it hot in here? We're shifting our routine- our shortest session is the juiciest of the whole program. We're talking about discipline, edging, and solo pleasure. Take notes, you'll have some very exciting homework tonight! Find the videos and journal prompts for this program on:  beyondthebedroom.org 

Today is a bit different from the rest of the program- we're getting philosophical about sex! All giving requires some receiving, so tap into that today with a breathing exercise and some mindful introspection. Find the videos and journal prompts for this program on:  beyondthebedroom.org 

Deepen your self-connection for growth in your ability to connect with others. Today is a longer meditation and visualization practice that might reveal something new for you. Want more out of this program? Head to beyondthebedroom.org for a free account. 

Let's get loud, let's get louuuud. We're going find our sex voice and let people know what we want, in the terms that suit us best.  You'll be speaking out loud today or using your journal, so find a spot with some privacy. Find the videos and journal prompts for this program on:  beyondthebedroom.org 

Learning to be a confident and self-compassionate recipient of pleasure is a skill. Today, you'll need an inanimate object you can hold comfortably in your hands, like a shampoo bottle or cup.  Find the videos and journal prompts for this program on:  beyondthebedroom.org

We're moving and grooving today, baby. Let's take what we've learned and put it into our bodies. Shake it out, move around, with intention and pleasure. You might want a pillow and a blanket or mat on the floor for today! Find the videos and journal prompts for this program on:  beyondthebedroom.org

Do you ever just get randomly horny? Maybe you need the perfect conditions to get in the mood. Or- maybe you're somewhere in between. Today, we'll be diving deeper into accepting our desire types. You'll be taking a little quiz with me- find the videos and journal prompts for this program on: beyondthebedroom.org

We're getting handsy today! Let's build on yesterday's exercise by adding touch. You'll need a hard object like a hairbrush, something soft such as a tie or fuzzy blanket, and something cold (can be ice, but anything from your fridge or freezer works fine). We'll also be exploring what elements are required for “good” sex. Want the video version instead? Head to beyondthebedroom.org 

Are you ready to give yourself permission? What we allow ourselves and what we allow others affects our sex lives. Let's ground ourselves, check in with our boundaries, and set an intention for this program. Watch the video version of this program on beyondthebedroom.org

Juicy January: 10 Days of Mindful Pleasure is a free program provided by Beyond the Bedroom to kickstart your new year with some self-care.Prioritize intimacy by setting aside less than 15 minutes per day in a crash course in pleasure by a certified sex educator! Day 1 premieres on January 1st. We'll be meditation, touching, and moving together through these next ten days. If you'd like to follow along via video, check out Beyondthebedroom.org

Worst first date stories, hooking up with exes, and sex toy advent calendars? Plus, a HUGE announcement at the end of the episode with my husband! BIRNA10 at Maude Shop Foria here Play couples' games here, beyondthebedroomgames.com  Book a session with me: birna.net 

Everything you want to know about boobie pleasure- with a special guest, Mal! Does breastfeeding change your nipple pleasure desires? How much sensation should I feel in my nipples? Why do men get left out of the nipple pleasure convo? When should I get a breast exam? Listen to this week's episode for some insight on all things chest pleasure.  Cultural commentator Mal can be found on ig @malcolmaldrichShop Foria with my affiliate link here Shop Maude: use code BIRNA10 Instagram: @bbirna Reach out for a private session: birna.net 

The sexiest episode ever? I'm talking all things dirty talk this week! What matters more: what we say or how we say it? How do I find my sex voice? Plus, I share the phrases that give me butterflies... This week's homework is juicy, I promise.  Shop MaudeBeyond the Bedroom Games Birna.net

Can you have sex with a ghost? What is a succubus? I share some spooky sex fetishes, find a book about demon sex on amazon, share my listeners' Halloween sex stories... along with my own personal experience with a set of vampire fangs. Use code BIRNA10 at getmaude.comCheck out Beyond the Bedroom Games Book me or sub to the mailing list here: Birna.net 

Season 3 of Beyond the Bedroom is more personal, edgy, and way more... me.Does the clitoris really have 8000 nerve endings? Is my fantasy normal? What even happens at a kink class? Use my code BIRNA10 to shop at Maude (product mentioned: Rise Plus)  Play online at Beyond the Bedroom GamesBook a session with me at birna.net

Bonus content! I play 10 minutes of a bonus episode usually only available on my Patreon (now $4/month).  I talk about my journey through Masturbation May so far, discuss the results from the Instagram polls, and give some advice on how to talk about self-touch. Check out more of my work on my site or my Instagram @beyondbedroompodcast 

What did this week’s poll questions have in common? They’re common topics often left out of traditional sex ed models but are so vital for young adults (and everyone) to learn. Voting in the poll isn’t a prerequisite for listening, I’ll go over the results and share how I voted along with my input. Shop Maude with my code BIRNA10 for a discount and to support the podcast. Resources are all listed in this week’s show notes, available on my site here. Check out my work at Birna.net and @beyondbedroompodcast to get in touch.