The Smart Sex Podcast

I've got a hot episode for you today.Caterina Passarelli is a former TV News Producer turned romance author and entrepreneur from Michigan, close to Detroit. She writes in the contemporary, billionaire, and soon-to-be mafia romance genres. When she worked for the news, she was the morning Producer, so she went from writing about murders to writing about love!. Caterina gives us a behind-the-scenes look at her process of writing romance, and she talks about the complications of putting a spicy book into the world. Caterina also shares some personal thoughts about what she wants women to feel when she reads her books.We cover the benefits of reading romance and overcoming the judgment of being a romance writer. You'll even get my take on one of her books that I have read personally and how it impacted me.Caterina has written 6 novels available on Amazon, with 3 more due to be published soon. Many of her books have made it to the Top 100 of their genres.Find Caterina online!TikTok: http://www.tiktok.com/@caterinapassarelliInstagram: http://www.instagram.com/caterinapassarelliFacebook: http://www.facebook.com/catpassarelliJoin Caterina's book email list: http://www.caterinapassarellibooks.comShop Caterina's books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/author/caterinapassarelli {PODCAST EPISODE SUPPORTERS} Join my FREE masterclass and get A STEP-BY-STEP Plan to break free from fear, insecurity, negative feelings and flat-lined relationships, become authentically you, radically alive and be the woman you long to be in aLL areas of your life!http://amazingyou.life/free-webinarVISIT GOLOVECBD.COM/LESLIE AND ENTER PROMO CODE "LESLIE" AT CHECKOUT FOR 10% OFF GOLOVE CBD PERSONAL LUBRICANT.

You've heard of self-esteem, but have you heard of sex esteem? What do self-esteem and sex esteem mean for men in particular? What is intrinsic and extrinsic about both concepts? How does it help or hurt us in the bedroom and in our relationship with our partner?Today I have a guest you know if you're a regular listener of The Smart Sex Podcast. Doug is not just my love, my sweet darling husband of 24 years. He is also a personal development, leadership, relationship, and emotional IQ coach, and a therapist of over 40 years.We're excited to connect and share with you today.Visit TryLGC.com and enter coupon code LESLIE at checkout for 20% off your male hormone testing kit.Eddie by Giddy is an effective way to treat performance issues in the bedroom. Visit buyeddie.com/leslie and enter code LESLIE at checkout to get $10 off the Eddie.

The show is BACK! I took a break over the summer, I am thrilled to bring you season 3 of The Smart Sex Podcast. Before we dive into the upcoming season, I want to take today to celebrate where we've been and highlight the connections we've made in the last year.We're looking back at guests who have brought expertise to subjects involving having fun, being intentional and mindful, and some difficult discussions about sexual trauma.Despite adversity and living in the middle of a world that feels so disconnected, I hope that you have found connection. I hope that you feel smarter and sexier because of the first two seasons of this podcast.I am so excited to share even more incredible guests with you. Be sure to subscribe, share if you dare, and leave your review!Thank you, as always, listeners, for being so loyal and sharing in this journey with me, and with the special guests I have here on the show. I can't wait to share what's coming up!

Today I'm excited to have a special guest, who is also my partner, my lover, and my best friend in life.We're talking about such a timely topic. "Play" is so critical to our well-being and relationships, and it has been compromised in the pandemic.Doug and I go into play in general, play individually, as a couple, and play in the bedroom. We want to inspire you to create a playful lifestyle with your partner!VISIT GOLOVECBD.COM/LESLIE AND ENTER PROMO CODE "LESLIE" AT CHECKOUT FOR 10% OFF GOLOVE CBD PERSONAL LUBRICANT.

If there's an episode of The Smart Sex Podcast to listen to more than once, it's this one.Dr. Lea Lis takes us through the journey of sex education, from birth to adulthood in a way that will rock your world. She gives advice about age-appropriate conversations and behavior to model for our kids that will challenge us toward a healthy view of sex and sexuality.Lea pushes the envelope and even goes against what we view as cultural norms. Buckle up, listen closely, and no matter what stage of parenting you're in, take notes!Dr. Lea Lis is the 'Shameless Psychiatrist.' She is a double board certified Adult and Child psychiatrist, and Assistant Clinical Professor at New York Medical College. She has a bustling practice in the Hamptons where she sees patients from all family arrangements.Her book, “No Shame: Real Talk With Your Kids About Sex, Self-Confidence, and Healthy Relationships,” helps people pass down intergenerational wisdom, instead of trauma, by using modern psychotherapy techniques which she perfected throughout her many years of experience. She is an expert in the field of psychology, and hopes to change the way we speak about sex.VISIT buyeddie.com/leslie and enter code LESLIE at checkout for $10 off Eddie by Giddy.LEAVE ME A VOICEMAIL! Go to thesmartsexpodcast.com and click the microphone to ask me a question confidentially that could be answered on an episode of the podcast.

Kim Boda, today's guest, is passionate about helping entrepreneurs and Realtors to level up and reach their highest potential through high-performance coaching, mindfulness, and neuroscience programs. She is a real estate expert at eXp Realty, a certified High-Performance Coach, Neurochangesolutions Corporate Trainer, and teaches "Mindfulness At Work" to organizations.Kim creates the real, strong, and legitimate link between mindfulness, sex, and intimacy.With her simple and practical tactics, she teaches us how to be connected with our mind and body. There is so much that we hold in our body, and without a doubt, we take that into the bedroom with us.Kim and I even do a little mindfulness practice in the episode. I hope you'll follow along with us.VISIT GOLOVECBD.COM/LESLIE AND ENTER PROMO CODE "LESLIE" AT CHECKOUT FOR 10% OFF GOLOVE CBD PERSONAL LUBRICANT.LEAVE ME A VOICEMAIL AND BE HEARD ON THE PODCAST: Visit www.thesmartsexpodcast.com and click on the microphone

Today's guest has a truly remarkable story of finding grit within and rising strong. After being in a terrible motorcycle accident, Amberly Lago went into a medically induced coma. She went through a painful process of 34 surgeries and a lot of physical therapy. For years she needed the assistance of a wheelchair.Today, Amberly is a health and wellness coach, TEDx speaker, podcaster, and a leading expert in the field of resilience and transformation. I'm eager for you to hear Amberly's solid advice for actually putting ourSELVES on our "to-do" list. She talks about how to impact the world around us, how to give ourselves grace through struggle, how to attract good things, and the daily practice of living in gratitude.Through her story, Amberly encourages us how to shift our perspective on life.Amberly is the best-selling author of "True Grit and Grace." She empowers people around the world by sharing her story of how she turned a tragedy into triumph. Through her book, coaching methods, and workshops, she has curated unique tools to teach others how to tap into their superpower of resilience and persevere through any of life's challenges. She offers hope and solutions for anyone (like her) living in chronic pain to live life to the fullest. Amberly has most recently been featured on NBC's The Today Show, The Doctors, Hallmark, Good Morning Lalaland, and contributed to magazines such as Shape, Fit Pregnancy, Health, and Disability Magazine.I am inspired by Amberly and her courageous spirit, and I know you will be, too.VISIT GOLOVECBD.COM/LESLIE AND ENTER PROMO CODE "LESLIE" AT CHECKOUT FOR 10% OFF GOLOVE CBD'S INTIMATE LUBRICANT.JOIN MY AMAZING YOU FACEBOOK TRIBE FOR WOMEN: www.thesmartsexpodcast.com/amazingyou 

The Smart Sex Podcast is all about REAL TALK, and today's guest brings that with a side of laughter and fun. It is my honor, joy and delight to have my good friend Kathie J. join me. Kathie J. is a real life Wonder Woman. She's an Emmy award winning television host, a working mom of two beautiful girls, a wife, a daughter, a dog mom and advocate, and a #1 Morning Radio Show host of almost 20 years. She received her Best Lifestyle Host Emmy when she was co-host of Fox31's, "Colorado's Everyday Show." Kathie stays busy as a social media influencer with over 100,000 followers. Through humor, humility, and her dynamic personality, Kathie J resonates with people from all walks of life. I was a recurring guest on Kathie's show for many years and we always have a good time together.We talk about burnout, slowing down, and navigating through attaching self esteem to our work.JOIN MY AMAZING YOU FACEBOOK TRIBE FOR WOMEN: www.thesmartsexpodcast.com/amazingyou 

In the identity development stage of my 20's, many know, I struggled with body preoccupation, anorexia and bulimia which was my way of dealing with managing a loss, and feelings, particularly shame and anxiety, I felt I had no control of. It took a lot of hard therapeutic work for me to get well and ultimately shaped who I have become today.I discovered this episode's guest on social media several years ago, and was so impressed by her knowledge and wisdom about issues that mean much so to me.Leslie Schilling, MA, RDN, CSCS, CEDRD-S, owns a Las Vegas-based coaching practice specializing in nutrition counseling for families, those of all ages with disordered eating concerns, professional athletes, and performers.In addition to running her practice, Leslie serves as the performance nutrition consultant for Cirque du Soleil® and as an expert contributor to U.S. News & World Report, sharing advice on parenting and health. With her warm, compassionate and entertaining personality, Leslie has been featured in media outlets like Health, Women's Health, Self, Pregnancy Magazine, The Yoga Journal, Bicycling, BuzzFeed, the Huffington Post and on HGTV.When she's not spending time with her family, you can find her sharing non-diet messages through media and on speaking platforms across the nation. Leslie is passionate about educating ministry, military, health, medical and fitness professionals about the harms of typical dieting behaviors. You may know Leslie best as the creator of the Born To Eat® approach and co-author of the award-winning book, Born To Eat: Whole, Healthy Foods from Baby's First Bite.Sign up for Leslie's weekly newsletter with dinner menu ideas and tips for non-diet living on her website: www.LeslieSchilling.comSome people don't even know that there is such a thing as a diet culture. Our society can be so pervasive in telling us that we have a problem that we don't have. Leslie and I dig through that, and she inspires us with a mindset shift and practical advice on how we can love our body, just the way we are.Listeners, THANK YOU for continuing to subscribe and daring to share this podcast!JOIN MY AMAZING YOU FACEBOOK TRIBE FOR WOMEN: www.thesmartsexpodcast.com/amazingyou

I have a delightful couple on this episode, and we're going to be talking about sex, marriage, and laughter.Brittany and Ryan Ostofe cohost the podcast “The Laughing Couple,” which is #1 in Canada for Parenting and Relationships.They love to discuss the rawness of parenthood and how to create a healthy relationship through laughter and effective communication, and they did not disappoint in this conversation!By day, Brittany is the Curriculum Director for an Art company. She also runs her Instagram and Tiktok platforms with over 350,000 combined followers to empower her community of women through humor and relatability.When he's not being an incredible Father, Ryan runs his own sales marketing business named after their two children, The Riley Cooper Group.Ryan and Brittany share with me how they manage two careers, working from home together, and how the pandemic created a breakthrough moment for their marriage in a very creative way.

My husband Doug joins me to dip into the fascinating world of fantasy and imagination in the bedroom. There are many nuances and layers to this topic, but I want you to know that you are a creative and imaginative person in and out of the bedroom! Let yourself ponder that. Considering yourself and what you want to do with your inner life enhances you personally and could potentially improve your experience as a sexual person and a sexual partner.What's fantasy all about, and what different kinds of fantasy are there? Why would we need fantasy to enhance our sexual experience? What do couples need to do to have a healthy fantasy? Are there any you shouldn't be having? What about the “moral” issue?Join us as we talk about all this and more, and encourage you to become smarter, healthier, and sexier!SPONSOR: trylgc.com/leslie Enter LESLIE at checkout for 20% off

In this episode, our good friend Cindy Scharkey and I talk about cultivating our sensuality as women, but guys shouldn't be in a hurry to skip this one: there's some good stuff in there for you too!We cover the definition of sexuality and erotic energy, how to put that into practice in one's life and relationships, the history of what gets in our way, the need for emotional expression, mindfulness, and how to cultivate sexuality.We want to empower women and give them the freedom and encouragement to have their voice and use it to communicate what they want and need around their personhood and sexuality, even if it sometimes feels laden with fear and shame. Take up the cause of yourself, ladies. Put the work of YOURSELF on the forefront. Let yourself have what you long for: in yourself, in your life, in your sexuality, and your relationships.Cindy Scharkey, RN, BSN, is passionate about breaking the silence surrounding women's sexuality. Through her workshops, speaking events, and private consultations, she equips women with both content and self-confidence to express, experience, and enjoy their sexuality. She also empowers parents with knowledge and confidence to be their child's primary sexual health educator. Cindy offers sex education and resources through her free monthly newsletter and blog at www.cindyscharkey.com.

I'm bringing you a very important topic today that is very near and dear to my heart. I'm talking with an expert on love, sexuality, and dating, as it relates to Autism. Many of you may know that I have a 21-year-old son who is Autistic: high-functioning, smart, brilliant, musical, but challenged. I have wanted to do this talk, not only because it's the life stage my son is in, but there is so much to be said about this very important topic.Today's distinguished guest is my friend and colleague, Jeremy Hamburgh. Jeremy is the founder of My Best Social Life, where he is the first dating and friendship coach in the world to focus exclusively on transforming the social lives of autistic young adults. His clients make new friends, start dating, and attract a loving partner in less time than they ever thought possible. Using a science-based social strategy, Jeremy helps young adults with Autism escape their loneliness and live a vibrant social life filled with amazing friends and partners. Since 2010, his clients have met countless new people, made tons of new friends, gone on great dates, started amazing relationships, and even gotten married. Jeremy helps them do all this with a commitment to compassion and sensitivity that you won't find anywhere else.Today, Jeremy and I talk about the unique challenges that people with Autism face, what they're afraid of when it comes to intimate relationships, and Jeremy's approach to helping them discover what they want and who they want to be in relationship with, from a step-by-step, scientific approach.To learn more about Jeremy's approach to dating, go to www.mybestsociallife.comAdults with Autism who want to take his free training can visit https://joinnow.live/s/iBdW5yParents who want to take his free training can visit https://joinnow.live/s/9ZtbPk

This is part 2 of my talk with three dating experts: Connell Barrett, Anwar White, and Nate Hockstra.We're picking where we left off, with Anwar talking about rejection and how dating is a numbers game, and then we tackle hookup culture from women's perspective, being real and vulnerable in dating relationships, developing a blueprint for what you want sexually, the fears and hesitations women and men have around sex and dating, and some pretty cool client success stories.With over 10,000 hours of one-on-one coaching and training experience, Nate Hockstra is an expert in helping men find meaningful relationships without the use of any “pick up” or game playing. You can connect with him at Ditchthegame.comConnell Barrett is the founder of Dating Transformation and a dating coach for The League. He is the author of the forthcoming book, Dating Sucks, But You Don't, a dating guide for men in the #MeToo Era. He's also an advisor for AskMen and Elite Daily, and has appeared on "Access Hollywood,” and the Today Show, as well as in Playboy, Cosmopolitan, and O, The Oprah Magazine. You can read his weekly advice column, “Ask the Dating Coach,” at DatingTransformation.com.Anwar White is a certified dating and relationship coach whohas helped thousands of women heal their hearts, date effectively, and get their guy! You can check him out further at Get Your Guy Coaching, or book a free consultation with him at getyourguycoaching.com/apply.This episode is part one of our dating conversation. We're talking through what it takes to have a successful dating life: Do you need confidence? Do you need “game?” Do you need both, and how much? How do you even date during the time of COVID? Nate, Connell and Anwar all bring engaging, expert advice for all who are single.

I was delighted to have three handsome, incredible, knowledgeable dating coaches to talk about what single people are up against, how to navigate dating, and what the sexual culture is like today. This panel of experts is going to give you the inside scoop on what to do.With over 10,000 hours of one-on-one coaching and training experience, Nate Hockstra is an expert in helping men find meaningful relationships without the use of any “pick up” or game playing. You can connect with him at Ditchthegame.comConnell Barrett is the founder of Dating Transformation and a dating coach for The League. He is the author of the forthcoming book, Dating Sucks, But You Don't, a dating guide for men in the #MeToo Era. He's also an advisor for AskMen and Elite Daily, and has appeared on "Access Hollywood,” and the Today Show, as well as in Playboy, Cosmopolitan, and O, The Oprah Magazine. You can read his weekly advice column, “Ask the Dating Coach,” at DatingTransformation.com.Anwar White is a certified dating and relationship coach whohas helped thousands of women heal their hearts, date effectively, and get their guy! You can check him out further at Get Your Guy Coaching, or book a free consultation with him at getyourguycoaching.com/apply.This episode is part one of our dating conversation. We're talking through what it takes to have a successful dating life: Do you need confidence? Do you need “game?” Do you need both, and how much? How do you even date during the time of COVID? Nate, Connell and Anwar all bring engaging, expert advice for all who are single.Stay tuned for part two, which will air next week!

The subject of porn is not one that many people talk about openly. As a Sex Therapist, I have talked with so many couples about this issue. We dig deep around the topic: not just for men, but also for women and couples together.Is it okay for couples to watch porn together as a way of enhancing their relationship? What about women and erotica? Does it have some of the same effects as pornography and the compulsivity that men can form around it?Together with my husband Doug, and my producer Kristen, who will be asking the questions, we're going to uncover - or XXcavate - the truth.

There is an epidemic in our world and nation today that is of great concern to all of us. While the conversation can be hard and uncomfortable at times, there is much that needs to be known and understood about sex trafficking which is currently happening at astounding rates. I sat down with Madyson Marquette, who was trafficked for almost a decade as a porn star. Madyson has bravely spoken out about her time in the porn industry and how it altered her life and how she gained her voice and took her freedom back. Madyson was beaten, tortured, and held prisoner by people who claimed to own her. She has since broken free from that captive life and continues to fight and use her voice to help set others free from the injustice of sex trafficking. She strongly believes in the power to be heard and that if we stand together in this fight, if we rise up against it and show love, then we can change the world.I asked Madyson about the emotions of going through a life abuse from childhood and her process of breaking free. She is incredibly vulnerable and brave with her answers. It brought me to tears.I must warn you that this episode is not safe for children and it may be triggering for some, as there is discussion about trafficking, rape, and sexual abuse. If you fear someone you know may be a victim of sex trafficking, or if you need help, please call 1-888-373-7888. You can also text the word “help” to 233733.The National Human Trafficking Hotline is a national, toll-free hotline available to answer calls from anywhere in the country, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year. The Hotline is not a law enforcement or immigration authority and is operated by a nongovernmental organization funded by the Federal government.

Happy, happy birthday, to The Smart Sex Podcast! Despite the complexities and sometimes the taboo of sex, and even in the midst of a pandemic, it has been a full, rich year of discussing intimacy and hot topics with you. I am so thrilled that you have been on this journey with me, and that you are so eager to learn more about sex, sexuality, and relationships.We've had some extraordinary moments on the show, and I want to highlight some that you may have missed, or that just need to be repeated. We have taken a few moments from the most popular episodes and gathered them all together here, on this, the anniversary show. We're going to cover everything from, "How long does it take for a woman to really get in the mood and have an orgasm?” to, "What is foreplay outside of the bedroom?” I even answer the question, “Does size really matter?” Spoiler alert: my answer has changed over the years!So sit back (or buckle up!) and enjoy some of the best moments of The Smart Sex Podcast so far!

On today's episode, you'll be hearing me interviewed by my good friend, Kristen Wheeler, producer of this show.The podcast today is for women and the guys who love them and could easily serve as a nice prompt for a mother-daughter or parent-daughter conversation about sex. We get real about sex and our sexuality as women, and WHY sex is so important for women, even when it doesn't always feel like it. I talk about the benefits of sex, and some practical tips about how sex can actually be fun, enjoyable, and not a chore or something to check off a list.Men can (and should) pay attention, too. This episode is both a primer for a conversation about female sexuality and a sex-positive encouragement.Your listening, subscribing, and telling your friends and your partner keep this show going!

“The Girlfriends” and I talk about the impact of having kids at home 24/7 has had on their sex lives.They talk about getting creative in the bedroom when the kids are always, ALWAYS home. How can it be done? Is walking in on your parents having sex a traumatic experience or a rite of passage? We answer these questions and more, as we talk about how gaming headsets, iPads, suckers, and “prayer” all have to do with having sex.

According to an NBC news poll, 24% of couples say that the extra time at home has positively affected their sex life, and a whopping 47% said it has negatively affected their sex life. According to eHarmony, 14% of couples have realized that their relationship is over, while 4% of people uncovered a virtual affair, and 3% have uncovered an affair in real life. Where do you and your significant other stand when it comes to these statistics? “The Girlfriends,” Jamie, Lori, Kristen and Laurel, talk with me about how the pandemic has positively and negatively affected intimacy with their spouses, their relationship roles, the mystery of romance and sexual attraction during COVID-19, and even how their Enneagram numbers have impacted how they respond during crisis. They all answer this question: Has the quarantine given you more time to focus on your relationship, or has it highlighted your issues?Tune in to find out the answers from The Girlfriends!Thank you for listening, subscribing and sharing The Smart Sex Podcast. Tap “subscribe” to be the first to know about new episodes!Website: http://thesmartsexpodcast.comInstagram: instagram.com/lesliegustafson1Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LDGustafsonTikTok: @LeslieNewbyGustaf

Dr. Lea Lis, double board certified Adult and Child Psychiatrist and Author of the book, "No Shame - Real Talk with Your Kids About Sex, Self Confidence and Healthy Relationships" * joins Leslie to talk about all things teens, sexuality, relationship development, parenting and how to help teens navigate their boundaries confidently.Dr. Lis is a true expert in child psychology and sexuality and is changing the way we talk to our kids about sex which lends itself beautifully to this deep and open dialogue about what healthy teenand parent relationships need to look and sound like.If you are a parent of a child, this Episode 20 is not to be missed. You will be challenged, educated and encouraged. Perhaps more importantly, your eyes will be opened around the critical need for understanding your own journey through sex and relationships and how to help empower yourself and your children and teens through theirs.*Dr. Lea Lis is the Shameless Psychiatrist.Dr. Lis is a medical doctor who is a double board certified Adult and Child Psychiatrist. She has been working with families since the beginning of her psychiatric career. She is uniquely positioned to help parents and children face many mental health challenges and live healthy lives. During her training and residency at St. Vincent's Hospital in New York and New York University, and her private psychiatric practice (Mindful Kid), she has developed expertise in working with modern families of all types. Psychiatry and medicine is Dr. Lis' calling since age 15 when she started working at Hillside Psychiatric Hospital. She has a thriving clinical practice where she sees adults and children with all types of mental health issues in Southampton, New York. She has a well received column on Psychology Today and Thrive Global, and has appeared as an expert on parenting in programming by ABC, CBS and NBC. She has been featured in numerous media outlets such as The Chicago Tribune, The Washington Post, and in niche publications like Good Housekeeping, Purist Magazine and Psychiatric News. She has been interviewed as an expert on multiple podcasts. Dr. Lea is active in the American Psychiatric Association, having served as a member of their National Ethics Committee and on the Board of Trustees. She served as Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at New York University Medical Center, and has presented numerous symposia and workshops at the annual APA meetings and at the meetings of the Institute of Psychiatric Services. Her Academic publications have appeared in the Journal of Psychiatric Practice and the Journal of Academic Psychiatry.Thank you for listening to The Smart Sex Podcast. Please SUBSCRIBE as doing so keeps this podcast alive.Leslie Gustafson, Sex & Relationship Therapist, Coach & Host can be found on all major social media platforms @LeslieGustafson1 of Leslie Gustafson.

Men are curious and want to know many things about sexuality and how sex works for their partner. In this episode, Doug Gustafson, Men's Coach asks Leslie the many questions men wonder about including: "Why does sex have to be so hard and complicated?" "Why does my wife never seem to initiate sex?' "What can I do about my anger and frustration around being sexually rejected?" "I have a huge sex drive and my wife doesn't, now what?" "How come I can't always tell if my wife has had an orgasm and what can I do?"Many other topics and questions arose during the talk including: The difference between men's and women's sexual fantasies and sexual desire. What is underneath men's sexual frustration and the personal and relational "fix" for it.The role of fear of not getting sexual needs met and men's sex "drive"."Does pornography work as an antidote to a difference in sexual desire?"How couples can work through and negotiate their sexual life in all it's nuance.Why men's pursuit of their partners often fails.The truth about "sexual incompatibility" and what to do. The episode takes an unexpected in the latter part of the episode when Doug asksabout why affairs happen and if men (and women) can get the passion back after the affair and how A rich dialogue that will likely surface again in a future episode was begun.THANK YOU for listening, subscribing and sharing The Smart Sex Podcast!!Leslie Gustafson can be found all on all social media platforms:Instagram: @LeslieGustafson1Facebook: Leslie GustafsonTikTok: @LeslieNewbyGustaf

Through many years educating and answering questions on TV and social media, Leslie has heard from 1000's of people about what they most want to know about sex and relationships. So, in this episode the table is turned and Leslie is on the "hot seat". Her Coach/Therapist husband Doug Gustafson takes on the role of interviewer and asks questions YOU want to know - none of which Leslie was aware of before the interview.In this episode you will hear the real truth about these questions and more: "Does size really matter?'"Do clients take their clothes off in sex therapy?""What exactly is a sex therapist and what do you do?"Who comes to sex therapy and why?""What is great sex anyway?""How are men and women different when it comes to sex? Or are they?""How does one become a sex therapist?""Are some people just not sexual at all?"Doug also presents numerous real life couples examples for Leslie to "solve". One couple whereshe has a history of sexual trauma and he has a history of pornography use is discussed.This is a lively discussion that will help the listener become Better, Smarter & Sexier!Thank you for listening. Your SUBSCRIBING, sharing and continued listening helps keep this podcast alive all over the world. THANK YOU!!Leslie Gustafson is a Master Sex, Love and Relationship Coach, licensed Individual and couples therapist and AASECT Sex Therapist. She can be found on all social media platforms particularly Facebook and Instagram @LeslieGustafson1.

Ross and Jessica Costanza* join Leslie for an inside look at Boudoir Photography.What actually happens when a woman chooses to shed her clothes and be photographed? What does she experience ? What is it like for a husband and wife team to be in the business of photographing women? Why would they choose to do this kind on work? How does it effect their marriage?You will likely be quite surprised by the truth of what really happens and can happen.Enjoy this episode full of relationship insights, myth busting, insider stories and experiences that are funny, touching, real and inspiring.Are you ready for your boudoir or "dudeoir" photo shoot? Will Leslie join Ross and Jess for her own boudoir shoot?Thank you for listening, sharing and subscribing and for getting The Smart Sex Podcast on the charts of 8 countries!!*Ross and Jess Costanza are a husband-and-wife photography team based out of Norfolk, Virginia. They met on a blind date in 2011 and married two years later. They now enjoy traveling, spending time with family, and using their creative backgrounds to bring beauty to the world!Ross began his flagship company, Ross Costanza Photography, in 2006 focusing primarily on engagements and weddings. After Jess joined in 2014, they slowly started shifting their primary focus to boudoir and intimate portraiture, later developing their new brand, Luminous Boudoir. The mission of Luminous is empowering women to take time for self-care and bolstering their confidence to new levels. When a woman feels amazing about herself, the ripple effect of self love and confidence extends to her family and ALL those around her. It's an incredible transformation to witness!Ross and Jess now run a thriving studio and spearhead an empowering online community designed to support and uplift women in their journey to self-love through the boudoir experience.The couple also own and operate 7 Steps to SIX Figures, a business coaching program specifically geared towards teaching photographers how to create and sustain successful businesses so that the ripple effect is felt and the impact is multiplied. Ross and Jess believe that by coaching other photographers and helping them create their dream businesses that they are fulfilling a greater purpose by helping other clients have transformational experiences that they otherwise might not have had.For Boudoir Inquiries: info@RossCostanza.comFor Photographers who want to level up: ross@7steps6figures.com

Welcome to the fascinating world of Sex Technology - fast developing, cutting edge and at times jaw-dropping!In this episode, Leslie is joined by the smart, clinically savvy, sextech expert somatic psychologist and sex therapist Dr. Holly Richmond to talk about what is available to men and women in the current age where sexual devices, remotes and robotics are now at our finger tips.Sex technology is here to stay and Holly has immersed herself in the understanding of it and how it can enhance our relationships, intimacy, sexual experience and sexual pleasure. We have an opportunity in this discussion to learn about all that is available and where technology is advancing in the sexual arena and discover new ways to enhance our own sex lives whether we are in the same place with each other or we are far apart. Sextech provides new novel ways of connecting with our partners. For those who are needing ways to expand and enhance their intimate lives against the backdrop of being home and together more, listen closely!The "controversial" aspects of sextech are confronted as well and Holly has much to say about how to use the new technology in sexually healthy ways and who may be able to benefit from the specific devices and how.THANK YOU for listening and keeping the Smart Sex Podcast up and running by SUBSCRIBING and sharing the podcast with others!Dr. Holly Richmond is a Somatic Psychologist, Certified Sex Therapist (CST), and Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) with offices in New York, New Jersey, Los Angeles and Portland, Oregon. This unique combination of credentials enables her to focus on clients' cognitive processes as well as mind-body health. She works with women, men, couples and gender-diverse individuals on relationship and sexuality issues, offering sex therapy and sexual health coaching nationally and internationally. Her treatment specialties include low libido, sexual dysfunction, compulsive sexuality (often called “addiction”), desire discrepancies in couples, recovery from sexual assault and abuse, and alternative/non-traditional sexual expression. Her dissertation The Recovery of Sexual Health after Sexual Assault, is an innovative look at both somatic and psychological factors in survivors' recovery. Dr. Holly is regularly quoted in publications and media outlets including The New York Times, CNN, Shape, NBC, Wired, Forbes, Oprah, Men's Health, Cosmopolitan and Women's Health. She is a sought-after consultant in the sextech industry and is seen as a pioneer in the clinical exploration of sex and technology, and how they work together as human sexuality evolves in the 21st century. Each interlinked facet of her work is grounded in a sex-positive perspective: all sex is good sex as long as it is consensual and pleasurable. This non-judgmental position allows her to assist clients in discovering their true needs, desires and personal path to wellness. www.drhollyrichmond.comwww.next-sex.com

In this Part 2 of Men & Sex with Doug Gustafson*, what healthy sexuality is for men and what is underneath men's desires is the central focus of this episode 15."Most men want to be better men" but don't necessarily know the path in the intimate, sexual, interpersonal and relational arenas.Men are lovers and leaders but need to unearth the "huge needs that have been put away in exile".Identity, emotions, the heart of a man, the role of porn and becoming whole as a man and better lovers and leaders are all discussed.Doug emphasizes the critical importance of men understanding their own complexity so they can living fully, powerfully and confidently in and out of the bedroom. Many men lean on sex as theirprimary avenue for the management of their emotions, releasing stress and feeling alive and connected but must reconcile what sex is about for them, what it really can be and who they are as men. Lastly the "GREAT WANT" for men (that both men and women hold) is highlighted.Doug is a therapist, mentor and personal development and leadership coach who has helped men, women and couples for over 40 plus years. He is author of the book, Amazing Intimacy - Create A Spectacular Marriage In and Out of the Bedroom. He is also Co-Founder (with Leslie Gustafson) of the "Get Your Dream Life" & "Get Your Dream Marriage" rapid change online programs. Doug can be connected with at info@authenticandtrue.com and on Facebook and Instagram @doug.gustafson.9.PLEASE SUBSCRIBE! Thank you so very much!!

In this episode, Leslie's husband and coach/therapist of 40+ years Doug Gustafson joins her for a thorough look at male sexuality. In a date-like set up over a nice glass of red wine, Doug and Leslie have a very real and at times raw conversation about men, sex and what it's all about.From male sexual development, the importance of sex, addiction, out of control sexual behavior, men's feelings and desires, pornography and much more - THIS is a must listen to podcast!Doug has worked with 1000's of men and knows their hearts and minds about sex, intimacy and what they REALLY want in sex, life and relationship. Insights, stories, wisdom about men, and at times contrary opinions gained from the real life work and experience of joining personally with men as their mentor, coach, therapist are shared.This conversation is full of information and understanding that every man and the women who love them can grow from and become "Better, Smarter & Sexier."About Doug Gustafson - " Well, I'm Doug Gustafson, currently known as Leslie's husband. I have been married to my beautiful wife for almost 23 years and am blessed to have 2 sons and 4 grandchildren. I'm a personal development and leadership coach with over 40 years experience as a therapist and mentor to men and couples. I love coaching men - to help them advance to a new level they never thought possible.Doug can be found on Instagram @Doug.Gustafson.9 or Facebook at Doug Gustafson or directly at info@authenticandtrue.com for men who are READY to transform their life today and want a BREAKTHROUGH!

In this episode foreplay is forefront as is sexual arousal as guest *Cindy Scharkey, BSN, RN and Sex Educator joins Leslie.Cindy and Leslie do a deep dive into what foreplay really is and what it can be dispelling the myththat foreplay is simply "pre-gaming". Foreplay in and out of the bedroom is explored and new ways of creating satisfying foreplay are discussed.Sexual Arousal is not just a part of the sexual response cycle that happens in the bedroom, and Leslie and Cindy broaden the definition and offer many ways to increase arousal for women in particular. The differences between men and women's sexual arousal is focused on with help provided around how to "bridge the gap" and help men and women become better lovers.Sexual desire and the different ways men and women experience sexual desire is also revisited from when Cindy was on the show in Episode 3.Helping couples enhance their intimate relationship and sex life with practical how to's is the overarching theme of this episode, including learning how to open up sexual dialogue with each other and communicate wants and needs. Couples must learn to navigate their sex life together to assure mutually wanted and pleasurable sexual relationship.*Cindy Scharkey RN, BSN, is passionate about breaking the silence surrounding women's sexuality. Through her workshops, speaking events and private consultations she equips women with both content and self-confidence to express, experience and enjoy their sexuality. She also empowers parents with knowledge and confidence to be their child's primary sexual health educator. Cindy offers sex education and resources through her free monthly newsletter and blog at www.cindyscharkey.com. Thank you so much for listening!!Your listening keeps the Smart Sex Podcast alive and well! Plus, you become Better, Smarter and Sexier when you do.PLEASE Like, Share and SUBSCRIBE.

Drew Linsalata* joins Leslie to talk about his compelling journey ofovercoming Anxiety, Panic Disorder and Agoraphobia and the impact those had on his relationaland intimate life.Much ground is covered about the reality of what disabling anxiety is and the impact it can have on one's whole life. However, the gold in this episode is HOW Drew overcame and the paththat is helping many, many others do the same.This episode travels through Drew's history from his first devastating panic attack at age 20 to the painful depth of a profound depression, which was "terrifying" and had him gravely disconnected from himself and those he loved. Drew has much to say and example to anyone about tenacity, hope, how to become fully alive and live a productive and purpose filled life that helps others. And to those who are in the trenches of anxiety or depression, this is a must hear story that provides education, inspiration and real evidence that anxiety and depression do not have to have the last word. Beating debilitating fear is possible!Anxiety is a known significant obstacle for sexual functioning and positive sexual and relational intimacy. Drew openly talks about his experiences with this and offers great insight and tips about how to enjoy heightened emotions and be eager and unafraid of connection and physical intimacy.PLEASE Subscribe. Thank you for listening!Drew Linsalata and Leslie Gustafson can both be found on Facebook and Instagram*Drew is the creator and host of The Anxious Truth, a slightly unorthodox anxiety podcast that's been in full swing since 2015. With over 500,000 downloads (and growing), The Anxious Truth has spawned a large, vibrant and engaged social media community of amazing humans supporting, inspiring, encouraging and empowering each other to overcome anxiety and fear.Having suffered with anxiety, panic disorder, agoraphobia, and depression several times over a 20 year period, Drew got it together once and for all in 2008. Since then life has been happy, productive, and “normal” (although we'd all be hard pressed to define normal at times).For the last 15 years Drew has been active in the online anxiety community, working to use his experience and understanding to help those that are following down the path he's travelled. His no-nonsense approach to these problems and willingness to provide direct, actionable advice even when it might not be easy to hear, has established him as a unique voice in the community.

I this lively episode 11, 4 couples talk together about all things committed relationship. From talking about best and funniest sex experiences, why hotel sex is so hot, to what they most adore about each other, and what turns each other on - this episode dips into the heart of real life intimacy.Many questions are asked that would benefit any couple to answer. Except perhaps the question, "What most annoys you about your partner?" lol.Enjoy being a part of this couple round table and getting to know Laurel and Dave, Jamie and Jason, Kristen and Byron and me Leslie and my love Doug.Make a point to listen clear through when all couples talk "super powers" and weigh in on "How important a HOT sex life is to them."PLEASE like, share, rate, review, SUBSCRIBE, and tell your friends about the Smart Sex Podcast. Thank you!Leslie Gustafson- Sex & Master Therapist and Empowerment Coach. I can be found on Instagram @LeslieGustafson1 and Facebook.

Welcome & thank you for joining this Valentine's Day Party with 4 real couples (married 1- 23 years) as they play a Question & Answer game about sex , love and their relationships. Through much laughter, wine sipping, silly banter, real stories and at times tears, you are invited into honest conversation and to peer into the intimate workings of 4 thriving marriages that are alive and growing.Play along and have your own Valentine's Day (or any day) couple experience by answering the questions too. While not promoting drinking, some extra fun can be had by taking a sip every time you hear anyone say "The Millers". Midway through the episode, all couples sink into digging deeper about married life when the question, "What do you know now that you wished you had known then?" is asked. May you connect more deeply in your relationship too.Thank you for listening and subscribing! May we all become Better, Smarter and Sexier everyday! Happy Valentine's Day!!Thank you for listening and subscribing as it is what keep

Is Your Relationship PC?In this episode I am joined by my husband Doug as we talk to one of our favorite couples, Brian and Chelsea Peitz* about... "Power Coupling."Is Power Coupling even a thing? What does it mean to be a power couple in this day and age?Is it something to aspire to in a relationship?Doug and I have been told before we are a "power couple", but we had not thought of ourselves in that light or even knew what it meant so it opened up a pondering for us about the topic. Since then, I've wanted to explore the topic in a real way and immediately Chelsea and Brian came to mind. You'll hear why!Intimate details of Brian and Chelsea's love story, marriage of 18 years and their life together - what makes it work, the key things they engage in and live out to make it and their individual lives thrive is central to this episode. It IS inspiring! There are many, many take aways in this episode for anyone who desires to have an alive, passionate, strong, ongoing growth-filled relationship and lives that have impact and influence.With double-date-like conversation, we all explore what we think it takes to live out a successful life and marriage using "The 13 Indicators You Are A Power Couple" by millennial dating expert Samantha Burns as a jumping off point. You can do the same with us.At the heart of this episode, you will be witness to amazing energy, intentionality and marked proactivity by these 2 big hearted, loving, ambitious, world changing people who have an empowering way of leaning into and elevating each other and those around them. Enjoy and be enriched by this episode as you become Better, Smarter and Sexier!*Brian is an Arizona native who began a career in the real estate industry in 2002. Brian has worked in the new home sales area, sales management, Residential resale and business owner of a chain of personal training studios here in the Valley. Brian was able to offer a concept and level of service that stood out from the competition and quickly created a successful business which not only was voted top business in its class 5 years in a row, but also was successful enough to receive a profitable buyout from a larger fitness company after 7 years in business. Over 30 employees and 250 clients later, Brian was recognized as one of the “35 entrepreneurs under 35” award by the Arizona Republic. Brian believes that with his combined experience as a business owner, real estate professional, and Sales leader in the title and escrow business that he can provide his clients in the real estate community best service and product provided by Chicago title. Brian is very passionate about fitness and enjoys golf, snowboarding, and spending time with his wife Chelsea of 18 years and young son Mason.Chelsea Peitz is the National Director of Social Sales for Fidelity National Financial and a nationally recognized real estate keynote speaker who teaches sales professionals how to leverage social media and technology to build a powerful personal brand and develop content that generates real leads. She is a national social selling coach and speaker for top title insurance sales executives nationwide who has developed one of the only curriculums focused on using social platforms. A 20 year real estate industry veteran who became a licensed agent in 2001 B.F. (before Facebook) and who did business the “old fashioned” way for over a decade. Today she merges old school strategies with new school technology to teach others how to become more human by using tech. Chelsea is also the published author of the book, Talking in Pictures, the only book about how camera first social platforms have changed how we build a personal brand. She's a frequent podcast and live stream guest, sharing actionable insights and tactics to help agents develop a powerful personal brand. Chelsea has been an Inman Innovator of the Year Nominee in 2018 & 2019 and is the creator and host of The Voice of Social Sales Podcast.Her latest book “What to Post” is launching in February 2020. Mom to 6 year old son Mason and wife to husband Brian of 18 years. Her favorite place to visit is Napa enjoying a glass of a big bold Cab!PLEASE SUBSCRIBE!

(This episode is brought to you by The Amazing Intimacy Box. It's more than a Date Night that delivers Amazing Love, Sex & Fun to Your Doorstep. Get yours at www.AmazingIntimacyBox.com)In this episode, Leslie continues the orgasm talk with her girlfriends Lori, Laurel, Jamie and Kristen about how women work sexually amongst laughter and even singing.How we as women and men have been oversold a masculine model of sexuality with it's performance orientation and outcome focus, and the impact that has had on everyone's understanding of sexuality. The negative effects of this on both men and women is brought attention.We move into talking about the differences between and myths we hold about men's and women's orgasms.Central to this episode are lively thoughts, feelings and experiences around the topic of masturbation. An emphasis on the importance of knowing how our own personal sexuality works, how our bodies work and discovering what brings ourselves pleasure is highlighted. Also, Leslie educates on the effect that self-pleasuring and knowing how one works has on pleasurable and predictable orgasms for women.As in previous episodes, much of the fun, jaw dropping, and relatability is found in the honest sharing and humor brought by the girlfriends with their willingness to share. We are invited to hear how it really is for them in their lives and intimate relationship.Personal turn ons that many women will relate to, creating anticipation, sexual communication, out of the bedroom foreplay and sex education via the “Friends” TV show all get talked about.Lastly, Leslie educates on universal orgasm blocks and provides the big keys to having consistent, wanted sex.PLEASE Subscribe, Enjoy! And Become, Better, Smarter and Sexier!Leslie Gustafson can be found on Instagram @LeslieGustafson1 and Facebook at Leslie Gustafson.

Please SUBSCRIBE!Leslie is joined once again by her smart girlfriend clan- Jamie Miller, Laurel Avrin, Kristen Wheeler and Lori Makkai as they all discuss the HOT topic of Orgasm for women.What orgasm is, how it happens and what gets in the way is explored.Through moments of much laughter, this episode digs deep on the intricacies of orgasm and thepersonal and relational issues that surround them.Lori talks about how "sex proofing" the bedroom helps and Laurel tells us how to make Alexa in the bedroom useful.The role of pressure and expectations, stress, caregiving and over-thinking on orgasm and sexual pleasure in general is discussed. How to activate our own sexual want and keep it alive, the importance of the right atmosphere and context, plus what arousal is are all talked about both clinically and personally. Leslie educates about how knowing our turn ons and turn offs can be game changing for us. You will also hear about what partners can do and not do to help the sexual experience and enhance the likelihood of orgasm.The courageous women on this episode share their personal experiences around orgasm and their own discovery of orgasm.The Smart Sex Podcast is Real Talk About Sex, Relationships & HOT Topics. Your listening, joining the conversation on social media and telling others keeps the podcast up and running - THANK YOU!Leslie can be found on all major social media platforms, particularly at Instagram @LeslieGustafson1 and Facebook at Leslie Gustafson. You are welcome to ask her any questionyou have via social media and it may be highlighted anonymously in her "Ask The Therapist" segments.

Special guest Barbara (Babi) Pessanha* joins Leslie to talk about what it really looks like to keep married passion and sex alive after having twins. Babi brings practical wisdom and strategies on how she pulled herself out of the "post partum pit" and empowered herself through speaking up, asserting herself and setting clear boundaries with her husband to recapture the sex life she needed and wanted. Many women experience a dramatic shift in mood, sexual desire and identity after having a baby and Babi allows us to join her in her journey to rising up again as an individual and sexual woman. Leslie discusses the 3 key ingredients of couples who successfully navigate keeping great sex consistently alive during this challenging life stage. Babi provides many strategies and creative ideas she and her husband of 7 years have put into practice to prioritize their intimate life and allow Babi to feel like a sexy, wanted wife not a caregiving mom all the time. This alone is a critical shift women need to move into with the help of their partners, to keep sexy alive after babies. Bravo Babi!Stay tuned for the latter end of the episode where the conversations shifts into how Babi found and thoughtfully chose her quality guy (now husband) after much dating and her wise advice for all in committed relationships. *Babi is Brazilian born and was raised by the ocean. She lives Lives in NY happily married to the love of her life Keith. She is a Mother of twins Bella and Kelvin and newborn Thomas.Babi says, "Even though I was a nanny for over 10 years before and knew how to take care of kids I was faced with many challenges with the twins, speech, sensory just to name a few and was forced to learn how to navigate those challenges. I have failed and succeeded and decided to share on social media how I helped my kids overcome some learning hurdles. My life motto is LIFE IS AN ADVENTURE!Babi can be found on Instagram @TwinmamaePLEASE SUBSCRIBE! Your participation is what keeps this podcast happening- thank you!!Leslie can be found on all social media platforms:IG: @LeslieGustafson1Facebook: Leslie Gustafson

In this 5th Episode, Leslie is joined by 5 smart, accomplished guys (also heard in Episode 4) all parents of children from age 4 to 37. With great candor and willingness to talk about their own sexual histories and understanding, it is clear all want to be solid sex educators and great parents to their children. The idea from David that the age before technology was a "more innocent time", all mendiscuss how they are trying to navigate and even counter the sexual culture and the sexual messages and information kids are receiving early on today. The real talk moves into discussion around the consequences of sexual repression and the "sexual purity" culture vs sexual over-exposure, and the effects these have on our developing sexuality and later success in relationships. The "death of the dinner table" as well as when, how and in what ways we should be educating our kids is all brought up. Leslie brings in her clinical knowledge to inform all these topics. The power of understanding our own sexual stories and how they can inform and empower us to educate our children well is at the core of this episode and all men had much to contribute to that end. Hang in until the end of the episode when all 5 guys are asked to give out their best piece of sex or relationship advice - it is golden!Thank you for listening. Please SUBSCRIBE!Leslie can be found on all major social media platforms, particularly Facebook and Instagram.www.TheSmartSexPodcast.com

In this episode Leslie talks to 5 men ages 39-67 (many husbands of the women in Episodes 1 and 2) about how they learned about, discovered and explored their sexuality in their childhoods, on into their young adult years and how it has shaped them as men and parents. In American culture, only approximately 25% of men report having any formal sex education. Nevertheless, you will hear about the pursuit and active attempts, these guys, like many, have lived through to become sexual and sexually smart. Real, intimate, honest and at times humorous conversation. Listen, enjoy, relate, consider your own sexual journey & become Better, Smarter and Sexier!Please Subscribe & invite your friends and lovers to listen and join the conversation. Leslie can be found on all major social media platforms, particularly Instagram and Facebook.Have a question? Reach out to have it contributed to her " Ask The Therapist" Episodes.The Guys: David Avrin - David is a business consultant, author and professional speaker. When he's not traveling the world working with clients, he is a back yard-bar-be-cueing, jeep driving, recent newly-wedded father of 3 and step-father of 2.David Keita (Producer Dave) - David owns and runs D Kieta Media, a small, yet effective, podcasting production company. His years in the radio business helped make him an ideal person to start this business. David has always been a producer, writer, and entertainer. He loves telling stories, and jokes, and keeping his friends and family entertained. David lives in Centennial, CO with his beautiful wife and two children. If you'd like to contact him please do so at dkietamedia@gmail.com Doug Gustafson – Doug is a personal development, leadership coach and licensed therapist of 40 years. He has a wonderful life with his amazing wife, 2 incredibly talented boys and 4 very special grandchildren. He is truly blessed!Jason Miller - Jason is a dedicated father of three teen/ tween-agers and husband to his wife of over 21 years, Jamie. He was a Navy SEAL officer early in his career, with deployments to Kosovo and the Middle East. He now works in private security, where he makes his clients feel safe through executive protection, physical security consulting, training, and a variety of other security services. He's been a Christ follower all of his adult life and is passionate about self-improvement and meets regularly with other men to hold each other accountable in being better husbands and fathers.Byron Wheeler – Byron is a father of 2 and husband of 16 years to his High School sweetheart. He owns a chain of restaurants in the Denver, Colorado area and is a self-proclaimed “King of Business and Jester in Sex.”

Put your sex geek on & let's get "cliterate"! Leslie is joined in this episode by her colleague and peer Cindy Scharkey, BSN, RN, Speaker and passionate Educator to talk about women's sexuality, and in depth about the clitoris- the primary sexual pleasure center for women.Dispelling myths and miseducation about a woman's genital anatomy and function, Leslie and Cindy have a shared focus in helping women and their partners become knowledgable, well acquainted with their bodies, freed up and empowered in their sexuality. Listen, learn, expand and try out new things to become more comfortable, confident and experience greater sexual pleasure. Enjoy!Cindy and her many resources can be found at Instagram @CindyScharkey or at www.CindyScharkey.com

In this episode, Leslie and The Girlfriends continue the talk about sex education and their experiences with it.* Leslie talks about how sex education needs to unfold from birth on, the critical role of relationships and how sex education is a process over a lifetime. She broadens the definition of sex education and everyone offers real examples of how to talk about sex with each other, our partner's and our kids. “Sex education is not one talk.” Touch, affection, creating a safe place for our children and showing them what love looks like is explored by all the girlfriends. Laurel shares the pain of being raised in an affectionless home and what she has done to repair this for her family. Lori shares a recent visit to the zoo and what transpired there in front of her teen sons and also tells us about her experience with the Sears catalogue. Can you say, “uuuuugh” ? Real life sex education moments, depth of experience and humor weigh heavily in this episode which closes with the girlfriends generously sharing mentoring advice to other women trying to find their way sexually.* Please note. The audio gets loud at times and may be hard to hear. Corrections have been made for future podcasts.

In this first episode, Leslie Gustafson is joined by 5 of her closest, courageous, smart girlfriends willing to talk openly about their own sexual education and sexual experiences. Through much laughter (brace yourself, it can be loud for those wearing headphones) and deep moments, you will hear the truth of what many women live through to learn about sex and become sexual in our Western culture. Talking about sex openly and becoming sexually knowledgeable creates power, protection, prevention and opens the door to pleasure and empowerment while releasing hindering shame and fear.In the United States, only 12% of people over the age of 60 have received some form of sex education in school. Only 33% or people between 18-29 have.When shown a diagram of female genitalia, only 50% of college aged women can accurately identify the anatomical structures, and only 25% of men can.1 in 3 women will have lasting sexual difficulties that cannot be attributed to a short-term stressor, illness or medication side effect – a problem more commonplace than chronic pain, diabetes or depression.About ½ of women who have sex report persisting through pain.The Girlfriends: Kristen Wheeler - Mother of two and wife of 16 years to her high school sweetheart. A self-described, “hot mess of coffee and dry shampoo,” she seeks to encourage and inspire women through speaking, writing, and her podcast, Confessions of a Super Mom Wannabe.Laurel Avrin - After a stint in the United States Air Force, Laurel spent 20 years raising her 2 children. With the end in sight, she went back to school and earned a degree in Psychology and is currently working on her Masters in Industrial and Organizational Psychology. Recently remarried, Laurel is embarking on an exciting new chapter in her life. Educated and intuitive, Laurel is working closely with her husband David creating organizational behavioral content and building his speaking and consulting business.Maria Miller – Founder of KMALCO Group, a PR firm and whose work has generated numerous awards from the Public Relations Society in her 25 years in the field. Maria is a pro at expertly navigating the media and is a highly sought after for media counsel. Her clients look to her as an extension of their team for expert positioning, spokesperson training, community relations, social media and content creation. Maria earned her bachelor's degrees in Spanish and Journalism from Indiana University. Maria has been married 23 years and is a mother of 2 children and has 2 dogs.Lori Makkai - Lori has over 25 years experience in the Health and Fitness Industry as an instructor, trainer, manager and brand developer. In the past 2 years, she has partnered with her husband in the financial and securities industry as a small business owner. She also works part time as an Auction Expert for a mobile bidding company, Handbid, where she gets to fulfill her passion for helping non-profits. She is an apprentice of Jesus and The Way, loves to teach bible studies, and mentor Moms in the local MOPS group. Lori has been married to the love of her life for 24 years and has 2 sons.Jamie Miller - Jamie is a Speech-Language Pathologist and Executive Speech and Voice Coach in Colorado. She holds a Master of Sciences degree in Communicative Disorders from the University of Texas at Dallas. Whether the barrier is neurological, physical, social, or emotional in nature, she has coached clients to communicate their wants, needs, and ideas with clarity and confidence. Jamie has three children aged tween to teen and has been happily married to her husband, Jason, for 21 years. Jason and Jamie have traveled the world and have lived in 7 cities across the country following Jason's career as a U.S. Navy Seal and in the private sector. Jamie has a passion for marriage, through all of its highs and lows, and hopes to encourage other women and couples to grow through open dialogue about all aspects of marriage, including sex!FYI - Have a question you'd liked answered by Leslie. She can be found on all major social media platforms particularly Facebook and Instagram @LeslieGustafson!

Welcome to The Smart Sex Podcast – Real talk about Sex, Relationships and HOT Topics. This is your host Leslie Gustafson, Certified Sex Therapist , Marriage & Relationship Coach & Licensed Master Psychotherapist of 30 years ( I say that humbly and for credibility so you know you are in knowledgeable, experienced hands.) I have had the privilege of being FOX TV's Sex & Relationship Expert for 5 1/2 years as well as being a guest on Access Hollywood, and all the major networks and many radio channels. It was time to start my own show and dig in more deeply and expressively.In the coming episodes, you can expect we will be talking A LOT about Sex – how to have amazing sex, current #sexgeek facts, hot off the press research, sex enhancing tips, sex ed, and how to expand your own eroticism and intimacy. You will hear from experts and I will be your personal expert fielding your questions in my “askthetherapist” segments. If you've been following me elsewhere on social media platforms you know this is something I've been doing for the last 6 years. It will happen here now.You will also be hearing from couples in love. Couples willing to tell their stories and share the intimate details of their lives and include you in how they navigate their love. You will be able to listen in on conversations between women (some of my closet, most authentic girlfriends) sharing their real lives, histories, thoughts and humor regarding sex, wife-ing, mom-ing, their relationships, what they want and their big opinions about current HOT topics And, you will hear from men - Real Men willing to talk real about what it means to be a man in the current age and how life, sex and relationships work for them and what they want and hope for. My therapist husband will show up here too at times so I can pick his big, sexy brain and you can benefit from that.And we will have adventures where I learn about new things, try them out and let you in on the experiences. Yes. I kept that vague on purpose.And I hope you will tune in. I hope to entertain you! If these episodes aren't stimulating, fun, interesting and at times lol humorous, then I've missed the point! So whether you listen in from the privacy of your own cars or rooms with your earbuds in or whether you gather as couples, or with friends and you listen and talk among each other. Let's expand the conversation about SEX, LOVE, RELATIONSHIPS - be better, sexier and smarter for it & have a blast doing it! Pun intended.FYI - I can be found, followed and connected with on all major social media platforms particularly Instagram @LeslieGustafson1 and Facebook.