Podcasts about intimacy

Let's talk about pleasure. Yep, the thing women are taught to avoid, minimize, hide, or feel guilty about. And yet, as this week's guest Dr. Kimberly Rose Pendleton says, “Pleasure has never been more radical, especially for women.” In a world that feels like it's collapsing in real time (and let's be honest, it mostly is), pleasure isn't frivolous. It's the way back into your body, your intuition, and your aliveness. Together, we get into how pleasure reconnects you to yourself when the world has trained you to disconnect, why so many women feel shame around wanting anything, and how small “what would feel good right now?” choices can quietly lead you home. Dr. Kimberly Rose Pendleton, intimacy scholar, trauma-informed coach, and founder of UNCOVER, brings her blend of research, real life, and hard-won wisdom to this conversation. In this episode, you'll hear about: Kimberly shares the unexpected path that led her into intimacy work and how it shapes everything she teaches (5:30) Why knowing what you want starts with the tiniest daily choices (11:34) We talk about how vulnerability has challenged and transformed her relationships and career (20:21) Kimberly breaks down why pleasure feels so off-limits for women and how it can become a healing force (25:20) How grief shows up in intimacy work and why it matters (37:23) Simple ways to rediscover what actually brings you pleasure (42:22) Resources from this episode:  Sign up for my free workshop happening on December 18th! Rythmia Ayahuasca Retreat Dr. Kimberly Rose Pendleton's website Kimberly's book Kimberly on Instagram Book recommendations: I love a good personal development book, and you do too, right? I've compiled a list of book recommendations, as mentioned in past episodes. Check out these amazing book recommendations here. Happy reading!   MSN is supported by: We love the sponsors that make our show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on our website: andreaowen.com/sponsors/ Episode link: http://andreaowen.com/702 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Have you ever wondered why your intimacy keeps fading — even though you love your husband deeply?In this powerful episode of Miracle Marriage Makeover, we uncover why emotional and physical intimacy fade in Christian marriages — and the simple, faith-filled ways to rekindle desire, rebuild connection, and bring back the spark God designed for your marriage.You'll learn how to rekindle love through communication, reconnect emotionally before physically, and invite God into your intimacy — so your marriage can thrive with passion, peace, and purpose again.If you've been praying for more closeness, these Biblical marriage tips will help you move from distant to deeply connected — one intentional choice at a time.

In this week's episode of Bonfire Talks with Mark L. Walberg, Mark delves into the intricacies of crafting meaningful relationships and the progress of his upcoming book. Mark shares various chapter ideas, exploring topics such as 'Cs Get Degrees,' 'The Agreement of Intimacy,' and 'You're Not Broken, You're Human.' He emphasizes the importance of understanding authenticity, rarity, and the condition of relationships in curating a valuable life collection. Mark presents the analogy of antiques to relationships, highlighting the need to cherish genuine connections while removing those that deplete emotional resources.And follow BonfireTalks online:EMAIL: BonfiretalksPodcast@gmail.comINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/bonfiretalkspodcastYOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@BonfireTalksPodcastTIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@officialbonfiretalks

Silence feels safe… until it starts to disconnect you. In this episode of the Reignite Love, Sex, and Truth for Conscious Couples (formally known as: Get Your Sexy Back Podcast for Couples) , we dive into the truth about the conversations most couples avoid and how those silences slowly create distance, resentment, and disconnection in love, sex, and everyday intimacy. They share personal stories and practical tools to help you find your voice again  and learn how to bring truth, presence, and safety back into your relationship. What You'll Hear in This Episode:Why silence feels safer than truth and how it slowly kills intimacy in long-term relationshipsHow cultural conditioning teaches us to avoid conflict and why that conditioning keeps us from real connectionWhat are the three foundations of conscious communication and how to rebuild them togetherFor women: how reclaiming your voice through body-led truth opens a deeper level of intimacy and desireFor men: why presence and not fixing is the most powerful way to create safety and connectionHow to start the hard conversations without blowing things up and how vulnerability becomes the path to reconnection The truth doesn't destroy love — it deepens it.When you speak what's real, connection returns. Our Group Couples Retreats at Phoenix Rising are now open for registration.Here's what you can expect in our retreats:A lakeside sanctuary with space to slow down and breathe againDaily practices that build intimacy, presence, and passionSupport from us in an intimate, like-minded groupNourishing meals, cozy fires, and private moments together with no distractionsThe chance to take everything you're learning back into your bedroom…and feel the differenceIf you've been waiting for the right time, this is it.Come and see how much more is possible for your relationship.Only 5 couples. First-come, first-served for your room selection (GeoDomes or cottage rooms). 

Thank you for tuning in!In this episode, I explore the journey of seeking a deeper relationship with God, emphasizing the importance of prayer, repentance, and understanding God's love. I discuss the transformative power of the Jesus Prayer and encourage you to open your hearts to God's healing and grace. The conversation highlights the call to intimacy with God and living a life of faith and surrender, ultimately inspiring listeners to become blessings to others through their relationship with God.Timestamps:Chapters00:00 Embracing God's Love and Forgiveness04:07 The Power of the Jesus Prayer06:53 The Journey of Repentance and Healing10:03 The Intimacy of Relationship with God12:57 The Call to Trust and Surrender16:07 Living a Life of Purpose and Service18:53 Becoming a Blessing to Others26:06 Introduction to Being Brave Podcast26:38 Faithful Living in God's GraceSubscribe to my newsletter & get your FREE "3 Questions for Kingdom Clarity" guide https://sashalipskaia.substack.com 1:1 Biblical Coaching: Book a Clarity Call

Join the SmartSX Membership : https://sexwithemily.com/smartsx Access exclusive sex coaching, live expert sessions, community building, and tools to enhance your pleasure and relationships with Dr. Emily Morse. List & Other Sex With Emily Guides: https://sexwithemily.com/guides/ Explore pleasure, deepen connections, and enhance intimacy using these Sex With Emily downloadable guides. SHOP WITH EMILY!: https://bit.ly/3rNSNcZ (free shipping on orders over $99) Want more? Visit the Sex With Emily Website: https://sexwithemily.com/ In this Sex with Emily episode, Dr. Emily and producer Erica dive into your questions about sex and relationships. A woman who's been living with her partner for over a year and can't stand his unsexy pecks on the lips anymore—why moving in together kills sexual tension and the surprising move she needs to make instead of waiting for him to change. The listener who ended a relationship because their partner refused to give oral sex—why sexual dealbreakers are valid and the one question Dr. Emily wishes she'd asked before walking away. A man in England with a specific fetish whose girlfriend gets "nasty and defensive" every time he tries to talk about sex—the cultural shame around sex talk that's blocking exploration and whether therapy books can replace actual therapy. Why "I don't want to seem pushy" is code for "we have a communication problem"—and the difference between a fantasy you'd like to explore and a fetish that's a requirement for arousal. The real reason your partner gets defensive when you bring up sex (spoiler: it's not about you). Timestamps: 0:00 - Intro 3:14 - Why Living Together Kills Sexual Tension (And How to Fix It) 8:43 - Dating Someone with Herpes: What You Need to Know 10:32 - The Truth About Herpes Transmission and Risk 15:00 - My Partner Won't Give Oral: Should I Break Up? 17:43 - How to Have the Difficult Oral Sex Conversation 21:56 - When Your Partner Won't Explore Your Fetish 23:15 - Defensiveness in Sex Talks: Red Flag or Fixable? 25:54 - When Sexual Incompatibility Becomes a Deal Breaker

Learn about the impact that performance anxiety can have on both husband and wife during your sexual encounters. | “It's your reaction to adversity, not adversity itself that determines how your life's story will develop.” —Dieter F. Uchtdorf Is it really possible to rekindle the spark and restore the “like-new” connection in your marriage? Yes it is! In the 6 Pillars of Intimacy, you will discover secrets that have transformed countless marriages. Its ideas are simple, practical, and powerful. You'll be inspired to look at your marriage through a new lens and be encouraged by its commonsense approach. Alisa and Tony DiLorenzo's proven approach to building intimacy in marriage will help you experience deeper and richer levels of intimacy with your spouse – starting today. Click HERE to get your copy today! Links from today's episode: Join Intimacy Mastery Today Apply for Coaching With Alisa Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ever feel like you're crushing it in business but kind of white-knuckling it at home? Like you can lead a team, close deals, and solve complex problems—but one tense moment with your spouse and you're like, “Bro… what am I even doing?”If that hits a little too close to home, this episode of The Happy Hustle Podcast is for you.In this convo, I sit down with Quentin Hafner, a licensed marriage and family therapist, peak-performance coach, and the creator of the Black Belt Husband system. For nearly two decades, Quentin's been helping high-performing entrepreneurs, business leaders, and creators win in every area of life without sacrificing their marriage or sanity in the process. He's taken over 20,000 men through his Black Belt Husband framework, helping them rebuild connection, trust, and harmony in their relationships.What I love about Quentin is that he's not coming in with fluffy theory. He's a jujitsu guy, an Ironman finisher, a husband, a dad and a dude who speaks straight to the hearts and minds of driven men. His whole thing? Turning guys from “just financial providers” into emotional leaders who actually create a marriage they're proud of. And this matters big time, because as Quentin said, he's seen more businesses collapse not from a lack of strategy, but from unresolved marriage problems draining energy, focus, and peace of mind.In the episode, Quentin breaks down his Black Belt Husband system—five pillars that any man (and honestly, any couple) can use to uplevel the relationship. We jam on why most marriage advice is written “by women for women,” how he reframed the whole game for men, and how those same leadership principles we use in business can and should be applied at home.Here are a few key takeaways from our conversation that really hit hard:You are the leader who sets the tone and temperature.Quentin's first pillar is simple and convincing: as a husband, you are the leader who sets the tone and the temperature of the relationship. Just like a CEO is ultimately responsible for the culture and performance of the company, you are ultimately responsible for the health of the relationship. That doesn't mean she's a child or you're a dictator; it means extreme ownership. The moment a man fully accepts that, everything changes.Only fight with yourself, never with her.This one is a paradigm shift. Instead of blaming your wife every time something triggers you, “Why did you do that?”Quentin teaches men to ask, “What is it about me that's so bothered by this?” That inner work changes the game. It breaks the blame cycle, reduces fighting, and creates emotional safety. And when safety goes up? Intimacy and connection go up too. As Quentin said, most guys want more sex, more affection, more closeness—but they're throwing temper tantrums instead of doing the inner work.Be intolerant of bad behavior (hers and yours).Pillar three is about boundaries and standards. Quentin shared stories of guys tolerating things they'd never accept in any other part of life like being disrespected or even physically hit, because they've been conditioned to “just let it go” to be a “good husband.” The problem? That leads to resentment and passive-aggressive behavior. Being intolerant of bad behavior doesn't mean being controlling or harsh, it means clearly and calmly saying, “That doesn't work for me,” and holding a standard for how you give and receive love in the relationship. And yes, this includes being intolerant of your own bad behavior too.Take full responsibility for your thoughts, feelings, and actions.Quentin talks about how many men live in a “doom and gloom” mental loop about their marriage, only seeing what's wrong, replaying disappointments, and quietly checking out. He helps guys flip that by taking radical responsibility for what they think, feel, and do. That includes practicing gratitude, appreciation, and shifting your perspective from “What's wrong with her?” to “How can I show up better?” The same way we approach improving team performance or profits, we can approach creating a more loving, connected relationship.Fill your cup so you can give it away.The fifth pillar might be the most important: you can't be a great husband, dad, or leader if you're running on empty. Quentin sees it all the time, high achievers going a million miles an hour, then coming home with zero energy, zoning out on their phones, and missing the moments that matter. He helps men embrace self-care without guilt: jujitsu, gym time, guy time, hobbies, whatever restores your battery. It's not selfish—it's strategic. When you fill your own cup, you can give from overflow instead of resentment. Nobody wants to be married to a martyr.The big thread running through all of this? Most men are making one core mistake: they're over-indexed on being financial providers and underdeveloped as emotional providers. They're watering the business and starving the marriage, and then wondering why both feel harder than they need to.Quentin's reminder is powerful: if you want to win in business, prioritize your marriage. Not only because it's the right thing to do but because a peaceful, connected home is rocket fuel for your performance everywhere else. And the beautiful part? He says you can have an epic marriage in less than 10 minutes a day when you know what to do and you do it with intention. It's not about more time; it's about better presence.If you're a high-performing entrepreneur, creator, or leader who wants to be successful and deeply connected at home, not just rich and lonely this episode is a must-listen. Quentin gives you real talk, tangible frameworks, and a vision for what's possible when you go “all in” on being a Black Belt Husband. What does Happy Hustlin mean to you? Quentin says the magic sauce of life is to know how to merge those two components together, you know, how to be ambitious, how to be creative, how to be a conqueror, go out and build something epic. Connect with Quentinhttps://www.facebook.com/QuentinHafnerLMFThttps://www.instagram.com/quentin_hafnerFind Quentin on these websites:www.quentinhafner.comwww.blackbelthusband.comConnect with Cary!https://www.instagram.com/caryjack/https://www.facebook.com/SirCaryJackhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/cary-jack-kendzior/https://twitter.com/thehappyhustlehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFDNsD59tLxv2JfEuSsNMOQ/featured Get a free copy of his new book, The Happy Hustle, 10 Alignments to Avoid Burnout & Achieve Blissful Balance https://www.thehappyhustle.com/bookSign up for The Journey: 10 Days To Become a Happy Hustler Online Coursehttps://thehappyhustle.com/thejourney/Apply to the Montana Mastermind Epic Camping Adventurehttps://thehappyhustle.com/mastermind/“It's time to Happy Hustle, a blissfully balanced life you love, full of passion, purpose, and positive impact!”Episode Sponsors:If you're feeling stressed, not sleeping great, or your energy's been kinda meh lately—let me put you on to something that's been a total game-changer for me: Magnesium Breakthrough by BiOptimizers. This ain't your average magnesium—it's got all 7 essential forms that your body needs to chill out, sleep deeper, and feel more balanced. I take it every night and legit notice the difference the next day. No more waking up groggy or tossing and turning all nightIf you're ready to sleep like a baby, calm your nervous system, and optimize your recovery, go grab yours now at bioptimizers.com/happy and use code HAPPY10 for 10% OFF.99 Designs- Need a killer logo, stunning website, or next-level brand design?Stop DIY-ing and start delegating like a boss with 99designs by Vista! Neurable- If you're looking to level up your focus, productivity, and mental wellbeing all at once, do yourself a favor and check out Neurable. You get a special hookup—just use the code HAPPY at checkout and get $100 off.

We explore how prolonged stress can turn small cracks into deep canyons and how couples can explore those canyons together with empathy, curiosity, and clear practices. Tony shares tools for moving from emotional reactions to intentional responses and offers a hopeful path to deeper intimacy.• defining prolonged stress and why it magnifies small issues• emotional intensity scale and spotting old wounds in new conflicts• switching from reaction to response with inner child work• grace as empathy plus curiosity in daily moments• cooperation over compromise and playing on the same team• disciplines as guardrails for intimacy and calm• seasonal family vision and renegotiating roles• code words, listening without fixing, and safe processing• finding gifts on the other side of wounds• process goals that keep commitment aliveYou can pick up the book on Amazon.com or on, wisdominthewoundbook.com. If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend or leave a review.Send us a text

In this episode of The Ultimate Intimacy Podcast, Nick and Amy sit down with Kevin Johnson for an open and relatable conversation about anxiety, a topic that touches nearly everyone in one form or another. Anxiety is a normal function of life, and it shows up differently for each of us. It might surface when we're speaking in front of a crowd, navigating unfamiliar places, facing personal pressures, or simply trying to keep up with life. For some people, it's a manageable background hum; for others, it can feel overwhelming, even paralyzing. Kevin helps break down what anxiety really is, and how anxiety doesn't just impact individuals, it also deeply affects marriages and relationships. When one spouse struggles with anxiety, it can influence communication, intimacy, emotional connection, and even day-to-day decision-making. Left unaddressed, it can create misunderstandings, distance, or tension between spouses.Join us for this very important episode. If you haven't already, go check out the Ultimate Intimacy App in the app stores, or at ultimateintimacy.com to find "Ultimate Intimacy" in your marriage. It's FREE to download and so much fun! Find out why close to 1M people have downloaded the app and give it such high ratings and reviews!Check out the new UandI App we just released after a year in development.WANT AMAZING PRODUCTS TO SPICE THINGS UP? YES PLEASE... CLICK HEREFollow us on Instagram @ultimateintimacyapp for app updates, polls, giveaways, daily marriage quotes and more.If you have any feedback, comments or topics you would like to hear on future episodes, reach out to us at amy@ultimateintimacy.com and let us know! We greatly appreciate your feedback and please leave us a review.Enjoy the podcast or have some feedback for us? Shoot us a message!

In today's episode, Dr. Carol is joined by Dana Che, marriage coach, speaker, and host of the Rebuilding Us podcast. She knows firsthand what it's like to feel angry, hurt, and hopeless in marriage marred by infidelity, yet find her way to healing and restored connection. She now helps couples move from "I can't stand you" to "I still do," guiding them through the real work of rebuilding trust and intimacy after betrayal. Together, they unpack what forgiveness truly means (and what it doesn't), why healthy boundaries are not unspiritual but are essential, and how couples can take honest, grace-filled steps toward restoration. If you've ever wondered how to rebuild intimacy when trust has been broken, or how faith meets the messy realities of hurt, broken trust, and healing, this conversation offers wisdom, practical steps, and hope for your journey. Connect with Dana Che on her website, Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube. Find out more about Dr. Carol Ministries in-person intensives, or check out individual coaching with Dr. Carol. Dr. Carol loves to hear from you. You can send a confidential message here.

Send us a textEp 687: Tune in for a fantasy immersion experience...Fantasies are yours alone, and that's exactly how they should be. Explore the deeply personal nature of our inner worlds in this episode, reminding us that what happens in our imagination requires no permission from anyone. Ruan makes it clear that fantasies—even unconventional or dark ones—are harmless mental experiences that belong entirely to you.Throughout the episode, Willow emphasizes pleasure as a birthright. (Because really, who gets to decide what brings you joy?) She guides listeners to resist shame and guilt, recognizing that these mental scenarios can be revisited, changed, or completely abandoned whenever you choose. But here's the key distinction she draws: while fantasies need no consent, real-life activities absolutely do.How often do we forget that our imagination can be a legitimate form of self care? The episode frames mental pleasure-seeking as both valid relaxation and personal wellness. Willow encourages embracing what feels good without judgment, essentially giving permission to explore your own mind freely. It's about claiming your inner space, about recognizing that your thoughts are truly your own domain.**Ready to reclaim your imagination?** Tune in to discover why your fantasy life deserves zero apologies and why you deserve emotional release that celebrates your self worth.Estimated Timeline: 00:00:00 - Welcome to Ruan Willow Podcast00:02:08 - Relaxation and Fantasy Preparation Guide00:03:41 - Creating Intimate Fantasy and Connection00:05:06 - Intimate Physical Connection and Arousal00:07:36 - Intimate Sensory Experience and Fantasy00:08:41 - Intimate Physical Connection, intimacy, sexuality00:10:21 - Multiple Orgasms and Pleasure Building00:11:33 - Using Pleasure Toys Together00:12:42 - Fantasies, Pleasure, and Consent00:14:48 - Embrace Your Right to Daily Pleasure00:15:21 - Pleasure is Your Birthright, self help and relationshipsBeach House Views on Theo Reads:  https://www.theoreads.com/story/71ba59ce-badd-4472-90af-b2d324c6a332/viewPreorder: https://books.ruanwillowauthor.com/beachhouseviewsbookSupport the showExclusives https://www.buzzsprout.com/1599808/subscribeNewsletters https://subscribepage.io/ruanwillowhttps://linktr.ee/RuanWillow Affiliates Firm Tech 15% OFF with code ruan15 https://myfirmtech.com/ruanwillow BeeDee dating app https://beedee.app/?r=ohfuckyeahThe Fantasy Box DATE30 for $30 OFF 1st box https://thefantasybox.sjv.io/c/6250602/2141126/26423

Intimacy isn't a script to perform—it's a nervous system that feels safe.Heather and Kent McKean break down intimacy as a personal skill first (self-intimacy), then a relational practice (polarity). They share how wounding can flip masculine–feminine energies, why “better communication” wasn't enough for them, and what changed after integrating Mind Change with embodied work. You'll also hear transformational moments from their Intimacy Awakening retreat—roommate dynamics reconnecting, shutdown patterns dissolving, and authentic presence returning.Inside this episode✨ Intimacy defined: “to know and be known” (without performance)⚖️ Masculine & feminine energies (beyond gender roles)

This framework is designed for two people—one or both carrying anxious-preoccupied and dismissive-avoidant tendencies—to get to know each other at a pace that honors safety, curiosity, and gradual nervous system trust-building rather than triggering attachment defenses or falling into the “anxious–avoidant dance.

This framework is designed for two people—one or both carrying anxious-preoccupied and dismissive-avoidant tendencies—to get to know each other at a pace that honors safety, curiosity, and gradual nervous system trust-building rather than triggering attachment defenses or falling into the “anxious–avoidant dance.

Annabel is an author, speaker, therapist, mystic and feminist sociologist of religion, who specialises in peeling back the layers of patriarchal religious appropriation and manipulation of the ancient teachings of the Early Gnostics, founded on the mythos of the Rose Lineage.Annabel is author of the historical witch-burnings novel The Serpent's Tale, in which she campaigns on women's rights and for the restoration of the Divine Feminine, and facilitates her Return to the Rose Garden® online programme for the healing and empowerment of women. As a leader in her field of Divine Feminine Spirituality, and the embodiment of the Cross of the Sleeping Phoenix in human design, Annabel is a Spiritual Initiatrix for Visionary Women. As a guest host of this episode, Annabel explores: - Her initiation by Sophia, Black Goddess of Wisdom- The Gnostic Myth of Sophia- Sophia and Brigit as Lady Alchemia- The Alchemy of the Cross of the Sleeping Phoenix- Her journey with Sophia-Magdalene- Magdalene and the Archetype of the Prostitute- The Gnostic Myth of the Soul- The 4 Gates of the Sleeping Phoenix- The Gate of Spirit & The Path of Gnosis- The Gate of Intimacy & Authentic Relationship- The Gate of Power & Self-Sourced Energy- The Gate of the Now & Embodied Presence- The Sleeping Phoenix Activation & MastermindWebsite: https://annabelduboulay.com Sleeping PhoenixActivation: https://annabelduboulay.com/sleeping-phoenix-activation.My Law of Positivism Healing Oracle Card Deck:https://www.lawofpositivism.com/healingoracle.htmlMy book The Law of Positivism – Live a life of higher vibrations, love and gratitude: https://www.lawofpositivism.com/book.html My readings and healing sessions:https://www.lawofpositivism.com/offerings.htmlVisit Law of Positivism: https://www.instagram.com/lawofpositivism/Website: https://www.lawofpositivism.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lawofpositivism/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/lawofpositivismTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@lawofpositivism

We sit down with Dr. Jordan Rullo to unpack why sexual desire often misfires, how brakes and gas shape intimacy, and why responsive desire is just as healthy as spontaneous desire. We share practical tools to manage mismatch, avoid pressure, and build trust through small rituals.• Brake and gas model of sexual function• Causes of low desire across biology, psychology, relationship, culture• Spontaneous versus responsive desire explained• Desire discrepancy as a perpetual problem and acceptance• Why scheduling sex backfires and scheduling connection works• Avoidant dynamic and how rejection spirals happen• Consensual unwanted sex and bodily autonomy• When to involve medical providers and rule out health issues• Friendship, trust, and Gottman's Magic Six Hours• Weekly State of the Union and sexual communication habits• Prioritization, maintenance plans, and recommended resourcesBe sure to smash the like button, leave a comment, and share this episode with a friendYou can also follow and interact with us on Instagram at StrongerMarriageWife and Facebook at Stronger MarriageVisit strongermarriage.org for free workshops, e-courses, webinars, surveys, and moreSubscribe to our podcast and the Utah Marriage Commission YouTube channel at Utah Marriage CommissionVisit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways: Strongermarriage.org Podcast.stongermarriage.org YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@StrongerMarriageLife TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@strongermarriagelife Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strongermarriagelife/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strongermarriage/ Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579 Dr. Dave Schramm: http://drdaveschramm.com http://drdavespeaks.com Dr. Liz Hale: http://www.drlizhale.com/

E-427 | Inner Voice with Dr. Foojan Zeine & Dr. Coralina Chiriac — Exploring Sexuality, Trauma Healing & Intimacy Welcome to Inner Voice: A Heartfelt Chat with Dr. Foojan Zeine — a transformative and deeply insightful conversation featuring Dr. Coralina Chiriac, Integrative Psychotherapist, Supervisor, Trainer, and Co-Founder of the Romanian Association of Integrative Psychotherapy. Together, they explore the psychology of sexuality, healing from trauma, and reconnecting with intimacy, desire, and self-love through a holistic lens.

Text us your questions or topics for the show! We got you!Cass Morrow, Author of Disrupting Divorce: The NEW Man. Saving Struggling, Sexless, and Toxic Marriages.Kathryn Morrow, Author of Behind The White Picket Fence.Why Men's Need for Sex Can Destroy Intimacy?We've all heard that men “need sex,” but no one talks about what happens when that need starts to destroy connection.In this episode, Cass and Kathryn dive deep into how unmet needs, pressure, and emotional avoidance can quietly erode intimacy. This isn't about blame — it's about understanding what healthy desire really looks like in a thriving marriage.

Have you ever been in a relationship where your partner starts to feel less romantic, more platonic, or even like your flatmate? You might have experienced roommate syndrome. In this episode with special cohost Jordan Barr, we work out the telltale the signs of a roomie phase, unpack the reasons why it happens and debate whether we should be reframing our expectations of long term relationships.

Today's Communion Service was themed “A Communion of Intimacy with God”, reminding us that intimacy with God is something we learn and grow into. From 1 Chronicles 28:9, we were charged to “learn to know God intimately, worship and serve Him with a whole heart and a willing mind.” Intimacy means cultivating a deep, loving bond with God built on trust, faithfulness, and a heart that truly seeks Him - becoming a man or woman after God's heart. Building on Wednesday's message, Pastor Femi Paul gave this powerful exhortation titled “The Real Thing”, using Timothy as the example of a believer who is genuinely devoted to the things of Christ (Phil. 2:20–22 MSG). True devotion to God is seen in loyalty, service, and a heart that prioritises God over self. 1 Tim. 4:8 affirms that serving God benefits every area of life; now and eternally, and Isaiah 58:14 assures that those who delight in the Lord will “ride high” and enjoy their full share of covenant blessings. The call today was simple: Intimacy + Devotion = Grace to Live as “The Real Thing” before God. Prayer: Father, draw me into deeper intimacy with You. Teach me to know You, serve You and delight in You wholeheartedly. As I walk in true devotion, let me rise high, enjoy Your favour, and receive my full share of Your blessings. Amen.

An Angel For Bishop: Part 1 When two damaged souls collide can they find salvation. In 4 parts, based on a post by BurntRedstone. Listen to the Podcast at Steamy Stories. Wednesday night before Thanksgiving, 2010 Chapter 1 The early winter storm raged and thrashed across the mountain range. It seemed especially angry with the narrow mountainside road Dan was cautiously driving his jeep on. The fierce winds fought to push the jeep across the icy road into the deep ravine below. If it wasn't for the heavy tire chains he'd installed at the base of the mountain he'd already be tumbling down that cliff. He hadn't intended on being away from his cabin at all before the winter storms arrived. He'd discovered that some of his med kit supplies had expired and needed replacing before he was snowed in for the season. It was definitely a bad idea to skimp on medical supplies when you had no access to a hospital, or doctors, for up to four months. And since he was in town anyway he'd decided to stock up on extra food as, you know, no grocery stores in his neighborhood. With the sudden arrival of what was turning out to be a monster storm he was in danger of not making it back to his neighborhood at all. He knew the road behind him was empty of cars as he'd been the last one through before the highway patrol closed the gates to the mountain road. By now the road behind would be completely impassable so there was no going back. Not that he intended to. Not when he was almost at his turn off. From the curving mountain road he'd be turning uphill, driving up a rough fire road for two miles then into an even more rugged trail for another mile through the forest to his house. If the storm picked up any more even his customized jeep with its extra clearance wouldn't make it beyond the highway and he'd have to snowshoe in the remaining distance. That was not something he was looking forward to. Dan's jeep ground its way along the snowy road getting closer and closer to the fire road. A short time later he rounded the last bend and spotted the road marker indicating his turn was just ahead. On his right side was a thin strip of trees and beyond that nothing but sky. It was a scary section of road with minimal guard rails. It paid to take extra care here. He almost missed spotting the body in the tree as he drove past. Dan's subconscious mind latched onto the image and his foot was pressing carefully on the brake before his conscious mind knew why. Once he stopped he looked back over his shoulder to confirm what he'd seen. It wasn't just an odd shadow or a clump of branches. He could clearly see a body leaning into the branches of one of the trees dangling over the edge of the cliff. He put the jeep in park with the engine still running, set the hazards on, and cranked the heat up to full. He pulled his hood up and gloves on before he stepped out of the warm cabin of his jeep into the wailing storm. He made his way to the back of the jeep and looked again at where the body was in the tree. He'd have to climb up to get it and that was going to be risky. He pulled his climbing rope out of the back hatch of the jeep and stepped into the harness. Once secured, he tied the end of the rope to the trailer hitch and quickly made his way over to the side of the road. He could see the short section of guard rail had been slammed into, bent over, and broken off. It rested precariously on the edge. There was very little evidence of skid marks as the snow was blowing very hard by this point. He cautiously stepped forward and looked over the edge. Not too far below, maybe 50 feet, he saw the remains of one of those trike motorcycles. What kind of moron would be driving a motorcycle this late in the season? Just to the left of the wrecked bike and sprawled across a broken spruce tree stretching out over the abyss was the moron. Dan could see his legs were bent at an unnatural angle. Hell, his torso was bent wrong as well. Most likely his back was broken. The blizzard was making it very difficult to see the man clearly but he thought he could make out some kind of emblem on the ripped leather jacket. It could be a Blood Brothers jacket but he wasn't sure. Christ, he hoped not. If he was from that gang he was a LONG way from home. Dan called out to see if the man was still alive but either the storm was whipping the sound of his voice away or the man was dead. He looked up at the body in the tree and realized the helmet had moved to look in his direction so this one was definitely still alive. From here he couldn't tell if it was a slim man or a woman. The baggy leathers made it impossible to tell accurately. He took a few more steps towards the tree and saw its roots were deeply entangled with the rough cliff side. He judged it to be sturdy enough to support his weight if he climbed up. Just as he prepared to step off onto the tree he heard the unmistakable sound of a gunshot followed by a feminine cry. He looked up and saw the right sleeve of the leather jacket was torn and there was blood dripping from it. Dan looked down and saw the man below was holding a gun and was struggling to hold it steady. When he saw it swing towards him he flung himself back from the edge. A second shot rang out digging through the ground where he'd just stood. "What the fuck are you doing?!?" Dan yelled over the edge. "I'm here to rescue you!" "The bitch is mine! She dies with ME!" he heard the man reply. Another shot was fired but this one hit a branch to the woman's left. The man was deranged! Dan wouldn't be able to get to her before the maniac below hit something vital. And if Dan tried to climb out there he would likely be the target of the next bullet. He'd taken enough bullets in his life. He had to stop him. Quick! He frantically looked around for a weapon, something he could use to stop the idiot with the gun. Another shot rang out and the woman's helmet snapped to the side as the bullet grazed it. The only thing Dan saw was the broken section of guard rail. He reached down and with a huge effort lifted it above his head. It was damn heavy as chunks of two posts were still attached. Dan shuffled to the cliff's edge just above where the man was. He heaved the metal beam and lumber over the edge and watched as it fell. The man squealed in terror as the plummeting chunk of steel and lumber rushed down to crash into his broken body. It tore him and most of the spruce tree from the cliff face and they all fell hundreds of feet onto the rocks below. The crushed trike, which had been braced by the tree, slowly slid off the small ledge and tumbled after its owner. Dan quickly stepped out onto the tree and climbed up to the woman. He called out but she was limp and leaning into the tree. He saw that one of the branches had pierced her shoulder, pinning her in place. It probably saved her from falling to her death. The branch hadn't gone all the way through. He strapped her to his harness then he gently pulled her loose from the branch. Luck was on her side again. There was very little blood so nothing major had been hit by the branch. She was unexpectedly light. Dan got a good grip then descended the tree with her and pulled her backwards onto the road. Once safely away from the cliff he untied her and removed his harness. He scooped her up and carried her to the passenger side of the jeep. Once the door was open he slid her limp body onto the seat and pushed the seat back into its reclined position. Closing the door he raced around the back of the jeep, dropped the rope and harness through the hatch and got back into the driver's side. His face stung from the interior heat but after a few seconds it started to feel really good. Dan reached into the back seat and grabbed one of the new packages of bandage wrap. He used his belt knife to open the package and cut a section off. He did a quick field dressing on both her arm and the puncture wound on her shoulder. He reached under her helmet and pressed his fingers to her neck. Her pulse was a little weak but it seemed steady. Her skin was so cold! Looking at the bandages he realized it was all he could do for now. He really had to get her back to his house if he was going to save her from freezing to death. Slipping back into gear Dan rolled the jeep forward out of the snow pile that had accumulated around the vehicle. Soon he was moving steadily forward and he could see the fire road just ahead. The trees sheltered it better than the open highway but there was still a fair amount of snow to drive through. Dan turned into the road and maintained a steady pace as the road climbed ever upwards. The jeep was really struggling in the drifts as he rolled over the final crest before the forest trail. He quickly glanced at his passenger then swung the jeep into the trail and surged forward. The going was especially tough here but the chains continued to grip and dig into the hard ground beneath the snow. Occasionally he had to fight the wheel as the jeep slipped sideways, threatening to pin itself between the trees. Somehow he kept the momentum going until the jeep suddenly left the forest and he faced his garage door fifty feet ahead. Dan pushed the button on the remote strapped to his visor and saw the garage door begin to climb. He rolled the jeep forward slowly until it settled on the pad inside the garage. He pressed the remote button again and the door closed behind the jeep. He rushed over to the inside door and propped it open. He went back to the passenger side, opened the door and carefully lifted the woman's body out of the jeep, keeping her helmeted head against his shoulder. He couldn't get over how light she was. She had to be at least as tall as him but she felt like nothing in his arms. As quickly and carefully as he could he carried her into the house and into the first guest bedroom. He set her on the bed and began to remove her damp clothing. The boots were first then her damp socks. The skin on her toes was the lightest shade of pink so it didn't look like she had frostbite there. The leather chaps came off fairly easily but her jeans were very damp. He unbuttoned them and slipped the zipper down. They weren't very tight but that was mostly due to how much weight she seemed to have lost. The skin on her legs almost seemed loose. She wasn't wearing panties and it looked like she kept herself completely shaved down below. A flash of gold drew his eyes to a single ring piercing her clitoral hood. He looked away, embarrassed. He dried off her legs with a thick towel he grabbed from the room's bathroom. He removed the chin strap and slid the helmet slowly and carefully upwards until he could toss it aside. Long but dull and matted platinum blond hair poured out of the helmet. It felt a bit like dry straw. He pushed it away from her face and sucked in a breath. She was exquisite! Almond shaped eyes (bruised looking and still closed), fine brows, high cheekbones, slender nose, and full, lush lips which currently looked dry and chapped. She was a true beauty, or would be if she could add on some healthy weight. Her cheeks were a little sunken. While he wanted to take a closer look at his patient he still had to remove her damp jacket and shirt. Both came off relatively easily and again Dan could see the woman was badly underfed. She wore no bra underneath her shirt and considering her obvious and rather large breast implants he was more than a little surprised by this. Those breasts had to be uncomfortable without some support. He saw more piercings, both of her nipples had small gold bars with loops. Dan dried her torso and arms with the towel then wrapped her in a thick, soft electric blanket from the room's closet and set it to a medium-high setting. He ran back to the jeep and grabbed the medical supplies he'd bought. He closed the garage door and went back to the woman. Opening the blanket to get access to her wounds he cleaned them and replaced her bandages. Aside from the grazed arm and the puncture on her shoulder there weren't any other fresh injuries he could see. Healed or healing ones though, she had plenty of scars to prove she'd born quite a lot of pain in her life. Some looked like burn marks, like someone had used her arm as an ashtray. He'd done what he could for now. He closed up the blanket and pulled the bed's quilt over her as well. Her pulse had steadied and seemed strong to him. He'd just have to wait for her to wake up so he could question her about where she might be feeling pain. He felt totally inadequate for the task of being her doctor but he was all she had as the storm continued to rage outside and showed no signs of lessening. He went back to the jeep and unloaded the food. He put most of it into the huge pantry in the kitchen but the meat went into the deep freezer in the garage. Back in the small bathroom of the guest bedroom he poured a glass of water and put it on the end table next to the bed. It was likely she'd be thirsty when she woke up. A quick look at the clock on the wall showed him it was past dinner time but he was more tired than hungry. The window in the room showed the sun must have set as all he could see was the snow that blew against the glass and blackness beyond. He sat in the room's only chair to keep vigil over his patient but shortly exhaustion pulled him down into its embrace and he was gone. Chapter 2 Bullets whizzed by his head, one taking a nip of his ear as it passed. Still he ran on. He had to get back to the house. He could hear the steady beat of the approaching copter's blades as he ran from cover to cover, popping up to fire a round through the head of the next unlucky bastard to get between him and the house. He felt the sting of a bullet passing through his calf but he put that sensation aside and continued on. He slammed into the front door of the house only this time it was locked and he had no way in. Dan gasped awake, the nightmare still raw in his mind. He could feel the familiar ache in his right calf. He leaned forward and put his head in his hands. His forehead was dripping wet. He shuddered as the reaction left his body. It was obvious to him what had triggered him this time. He hadn't been shot at in years but you never forget. Pulling his hands down he noticed the room around him. He glanced at the clock and was startled to see that he'd slept through the night. It was almost 7am. Then he felt eyes on him. Right! The woman! He looked over at her and saw she was awake and staring in his direction from behind her bangs, her gaze dull. The bed's quilt had been thrown back but she was still cocooned within the electric blanket. She had it wrapped around her head and all the way down and over her feet. Only her face showed. He stepped to the side of the bed and knelt down so he wasn't towering over her. Her eyes remained downcast, pointing somewhere in the general vicinity of his chest. He tried to get her to look into his eyes but she seemed to be avoiding this. He didn't quite know what to make of this behavior. "Hi, my name's Dan. Dan Bishop. You were in an accident out there on the mountain road. I found you and brought you to my home because the road back to town was closed by snow." He saw no response. "Can you hear me?" She nodded almost imperceptibly. "Can you tell me your name?" Nothing. "I need you to wiggle your toes." He saw a slight motion at the bottom of the blanket. "Good! How about your fingers?" The sides of the blanket moved a little as she moved her fingers. "That's excellent! Can you tell me where you might be feeling pain?" Nothing. Dan was feeling desperately out of his element. She could obviously understand what he was saying but she couldn't or wouldn't talk. Maybe she was frightened or embarrassed. I mean, she was in a strange place and a stranger had obviously removed her clothes. God! He was suddenly so embarrassed himself! While he knew it had been necessary he was still a little ashamed for having undressed her when she was unconscious. "Look, I'm terribly sorry for removing your clothes but they were wet and you were freezing to death. I'll get you something warm to wear." Dan suddenly realized there probably wasn't any woman's clothing in his house. He walked over to the dresser and checked in a few of the drawers. Nothing. "Uh, I might have something in the other rooms. I'll be right back." He rushed through the other guest rooms and again found nothing except a skimpy white bikini bathing suit. Last summer his buddy Wally visited with his latest girlfriend and she must have left it behind. She'd been petite and her tits had been much smaller than this woman's but he thought the swimsuit might be a good substitute for underwear at least. He went into his room and gathered up a flannel shirt, a thick sweater, some fleece sweat pants which had a drawstring, and a pair of warm socks. When Dan returned to the woman she hadn't moved but her eyes tracked him when he entered. "I have some clothes for you. Sorry, I don't have any woman's clothing but you can wear this stuff to keep warm until I've washed and dried the clothes you were wearing. I found a bathing suit you can use as underwear, if you want." She said nothing but continued to keep him in her view. He knelt once more beside the bed. "Can you tell me your name?" he asked gently but still got no response from the woman. "I'd feel more comfortable using a name than just saying 'Hey You'." He caught the flick of her eyes up to his face then to the doorway then back down to his chest. Was she expecting the man she was riding with to show up? Considering the scars he'd seen on her, it might explain some of her current behavior. If the asshole with the gun had been one of the Blood Brothers he'd probably treated her poorly. She seemed too frightened to talk. He rubbed his face and decided there wasn't going to be a better time to tell her. He wondered how much she recalled of her 'rescue'. That might be a good place to start. "Do you remember the accident?" he asked. She shook her head with a tiny motion. "When I found you, you were stuck in a tree on the side of the road. Your... traveling companion had fallen about 50 feet below and was very badly injured." Dan saw her eyes flick up to his face occasionally as he spoke. "I thought he was dead so I tried to get you out of the tree. But he wasn't dead. He started shooting at us. Do you have any idea why he would do that?" he asked gently. Tears were starting to well up in her eyes and she shook her head briefly. God, he wasn't ready to deal with tears. He rushed ahead. "I didn't have a choice. He kept shooting at you and managed to hit you twice. I couldn't reach him to stop him so I- I dropped a section of the guard rail on him and he fell the rest of the way to the bottom of the ravine. He didn't survive the fall. I'm so sorry! Was he your husband? A boyfriend?" Her eyes closed and the tears were forced out. A single tear rolled down each cheek. But strangely she seemed to relax a little. He heard her breathe out in a long sigh. Dan hadn't realized she was holding her breath. Then she spoke for the first time. It was almost a whispered croak. "Master." What she'd said didn't register with Dan. It had also been so quiet. "I'm sorry, what?" "Master," she said again. Dan sat back on his heels. This was way outside his area of experience. He shook his head and went back to his original question now that he got her talking. "OK, let's put that aside for now. I'd really like to know your name." Her eyes dropped back to his chest. His frustration surged and engaged his mouth before his brain regained control. "What did your Master call you?" As soon as the words left his lips he wished he could take them back. What a colossal asshole he was! This was exactly why he avoided being around people. "Whore... slut... bitch... cunt... cum-dump... fuck-hole," she immediately whispered, as if she wasn't at all disturbed by his cruel question. Dan was shocked. Then he considered the evidence of the physical abuse. Why hadn't he expected there to be mental abuse to go with it? She seemed to be having trouble with her throat. He caught her glance to the glass of water. God he was so stupid! She was parched and the glass of water was right there beside her. Full. She hadn't taken a drop though he could hear that her throat was raw. He took the glass and lifted it to her lips as he helped her sit up slightly. She sipped at first but when he didn't take it away she began to gulp at the water desperately. "Whoa, easy now. Drink slower or you'll make yourself sick," he said. She immediately stopped and dropped her eyes again. "I didn't say you should stop drinking. If you want more, please drink. Just take smaller sips. Let your stomach adjust," he said, using as calm a voice as he could. She glanced up again then she began to sip at the water. When it was almost gone she pulled back slightly so he put the glass back on the end table and allowed her to settle back on the bed. He was realizing that she wasn't going to collapse in grief with the loss of her "master" and that was a tremendous relief for Dan. She still seemed to be a little nervous but was no longer looking to the doorway every few seconds. So, he was probably right when he'd guessed she was expecting the man to arrive. That was one BIG concern out of the way, for both of them it seemed. "Look, I'm not going to use those names on you so I'd prefer your real one." Her eyes flicked up to his face once. "Do you remember your name?" he asked. She paused then shook her head. How could you not recall your own name? What the hell had been done to her? Well, he couldn't just give her a name. Assigning her a name like Mary, Joan, or Brenda just felt wrong. But a nickname might be okay. It was a friendly gesture as long as the name didn't offend. He thought about what his Mom would have said if she had been alive to meet this young woman. First thing she'd do is feed the poor dear as she was so 'willowy'. His mom loved those old genteel expressions. He smiled at the memory of his mother. He looked at the woman and decided that 'Willow' really did suit her. Gracefully slender and lithe. At least it did now with her underfed body. He'd have to be careful how he approached this. He didn't want to hurt her feelings. "Would you mind if I called you 'Willow' until you recall your real name?" he asked gently. She looked into his eyes with surprise. Even her mouth made a cute little o shape. When she realized she was keeping eye contact she quickly looked down but he could see a smile forming on her lips which she tried to hide. She gave him a little nod in agreement. It was time for him to follow his mother's 'advice' and get some food into her to begin her restoration. "OK 'Willow', I'm going to go make us some breakfast. Considering you look like you haven't eaten in a while I'm going to have you start with some warm porridge and we will see how your stomach handles that. If you are fine by lunch I will start slowly increasing your portions from that meal onwards. Is that okay with you?" She gave him another small nod though she kept her eyes down. He was getting a little exasperated by that but he wouldn't push her. "I'll just step out to the kitchen to prepare the food. You should get dressed and come meet me there when you are ready, okay? It's just down the hall to the left." He went to the kitchen and prepared breakfast for them both. Porridge for her and eggs for him. The simple act of cooking settled his nerves. Dealing with people was still very difficult for him. He always felt so uncomfortable around people and always said the wrong things. As he worked on preparing the meals he realized that it actually felt good taking care of someone other than himself. He hadn't realized how much he'd missed it with his self-imposed isolation. He hadn't heard her enter the kitchen so he jolted a little when he turned back from the fridge to find her standing topless at the end of the counter. She was wearing his socks and track pants but was holding the shirt and bikini top in her hands. He was so surprised he dropped an egg from his nerveless fingers. His eyes locked on her chest until the egg cracked on the floor at his feet. He glanced down and said "Shit!" Willow's expression froze and she dropped down before him and knelt with her forehead pressed to the floor. Her hair fell over the broken egg and soaked it in. He could see she was trembling. Grabbing some paper towels he knelt down and gently took her shoulders in his hands. She flinched deeply at his touch at first but he helped her sit back on her heels then he used the paper towels to sop up the raw egg in her hair. She'd need to wash it but first he wanted her to eat something so she wouldn't pass out in the shower. She kept her eyes down looking at the floor. He did his best to keep his eyes off her chest. "Willow, you didn't do anything wrong. Even if you had I wouldn't expect you to kneel at my feet. okay? I don't know what that guy did to you but you aren't going to be treated poorly here." Her trembling slowed to a stop as the beating she was expecting didn't happen. She cautiously glanced at his face and saw he had an uncomfortable smile. She was obviously confused and looked back down again. "Can I ask you why you are topless?" he asked gently. Willow held out the bikini top. She held it against her chest but he could see she didn't know how to tie the straps. He'd never tied one of these before either but she didn't even seem willing to try. He helped them both stand. Steeling himself to consider this as just another engineering puzzle he could help her without being embarrassed by the personal nature of the task. Standing this close to her he realized that she was actually a couple of inches taller than his 5' 8". He actually had to look up a little to look in her eyes. It was then, when he was just inches from her face that he noticed her eyes. They were the most amazing shade of green with gold flecks. Finding himself getting lost in her eyes he pulled himself back to the task at hand. He took the bikini top from her and tied the top straps together and slipped the loop over her head. Then he got behind her and pulled the bottom strings under her arms and tied it in a bow on her back. He came back around to her front to see if he'd tied it correctly. Her large breasts were straining at the fabric and spilling out of the bottoms. He realized he should have tied the lower string first to provide support under her heavy breasts then tie the top strap to lift the flesh up into a comfortable position. She stood quietly with no expression on her face while he redid the ties. Soon she was looking spectacular in the silky bikini top though it was a little small and struggled to support her bounty. The small gold rings in her nipples could easily be seen pushing against the fabric. Willow shyly looked into his eyes and he was surprised to see a little desperate need there. Like she was looking for acceptance or praise. He was a little uncomfortable but words sprung to his lips automatically. "You look truly lovely!" And she did, aside from looking like she was starving. She certainly had the frame and foundation for true beauty. If she hadn't been so neglected she would be gorgeous. Her expression underwent a strange transformation at his words. She looked shocked at first, like she'd never heard someone mention her beauty before. Then her eyes welled up with tears and she bit her lower lip. She lowered her eyes again but the smile stayed on her lips. Dan took his fleece shirt from her hand and held it out for her to place her arms into the sleeves. He turned her around once the shirt was over her shoulders so he could button up the front. He really needed to hide her amazing tits as his erection was threatening to split his jeans. Having his hands so close to them was not helping. He grabbed some more paper towel and wiped up the remains of the dropped egg. Then he turned back to their breakfast and allowed the homey activity take his thoughts away from Willow's beauty and the tightness developing in his pants. When he was finished he noted that she was still standing exactly where he'd left her. Dan raised an eyebrow and pointed to the chair at the small table by the window. She went to the chair and sat. He placed the full bowl and spoon before her and went back to get his own meal. When he returned he could see her eyes were fixed on the bowl but she hadn't moved. The scent of its rich flavor was gently rising in the steam towards her face and Dan saw a line of drool had tracked from the corner of her mouth to drop to her lap from her chin. "Willow? Willow!" Dan said, trying to get her attention. She jumped slightly then flinched, expecting a slap. "It's okay, you can eat. I made sure it's not too hot. It's safe," he said gently. She lifted the spoon awkwardly then scooped a good amount into her mouth. She froze when the porridge hit her tongue. Her eyes closed in bliss as she rolled the warm porridge across her tongue then swallowed it. She glanced at Dan from under her bangs then quickly took another scoop, then another. Accelerating. Dan reached out and gently took her hand. She froze and looked down, trembling. "Willow, it's okay. Just eat slower or you might make yourself sick. We have all the time in the world. Enjoy your meal." He released her hand after making sure she'd keep the spoon in it. She glanced at him then slowly scooped out another spoonful and slowly put it in her mouth, all the while keeping an eye on him for his approval. Dan felt ridiculous. She was a grown woman and she was asking him to show her how to eat? Before his buzzing nerves provoked him into saying something stupid again he took a deep breath and began to eat his own breakfast. Out of the corner of his eye he saw that she was matching his pace exactly. He'd lift his food to his mouth and she'd lift her spoon to her mouth. He sighed and wondered again what had happened to her to make her this way. She almost seemed desperate for his approval. Didn't she realize she was free of that moron? After breakfast they would need to have a little talk. Hmm... maybe after she showered. She was a little ripe, probably a by-product of her malnutrition. And he had to wash and mend her clothes. Soon he could hear the scrape of her spoon on the bowl as she went after the last morsels of her breakfast. He had probably given her a little too much but it was fairly easy on the stomach, very nutritious, and the extra helping of honey he'd added would start her on track to get some flesh back onto those bones. He poured her some sweet herbal tea to help warm her up and she sipped at this while he finished his own meal. He caught her eyeing a piece of bacon on the edge of his plate and she instinctively pinched her eyes shut and winced when she realized he'd seen her looking. Dan felt so helpless at seeing her fear, then it made him angry at the son-of-a-bitch who did this to her but he knew his anger would frighten her more, so he just let out a slow breath and tried to center himself. He picked up the bacon and held it out to her just before her lips. Willow's nose twitched as she smelled the bacon. Her eyes opened a little and she saw he was feeding her the piece. Something needful flared in her eyes again, making Dan uneasy, and she gently leaned forward to take the bacon into her mouth. As she closed her lips they softly kissed his fingertips. She shyly looked into his eyes again and this time he instinctively knew she was asking for something from him he was not prepared to give. Dan gave her a quick smile then gathered up the dishes and brought them over to the kitchen sink. He kept his back to her and willed his cock to relax. When her soft lips touched his fingers it felt like lightning running straight up his arm, down his spine, and straight to his groin. When he'd got his breath back he glanced over at her and saw she was still munching on the piece of bacon, getting as much enjoyment from it as she could. She glanced at him with a worried look then swallowed it. She still seemed anxious and a little lost, like she had somehow done something wrong and was looking for someone to give her the answer. Dan wished someone would give him some answers. First though, she needed a shower and he needed to fix her clothing situation. He knew that the shower in the master bathroom was where the soaps and shampoos were (he lived here alone after all). So she had better use his bathroom to clean up. He walked back to her and she glanced at his face briefly, trying to read his expression. "I think it would be good and you'll feel much better if you took a shower. You can use the one in my room. I'll get you some fresh clothes and a towel for you. okay?" Willow just nodded and stood up to follow him. He walked into the master bath and pulled a plush towel and a loofa sponge from the small linen closet. When he turned back to Willow she was completely naked and looking curiously into the big shower stall. The girl was not in the least bit self-conscious about being naked in front of him. Dan didn't scold her for being naked as he knew she would just be frightened so he kept his eyes on the shower stall as he pointed out the features and how to operate it. Once she seemed to understand the controls he continued. "Uh, um, the hot water is fed from an underground hot spring into an insulated storage tank and our cold water comes from a tank fed by a nearby stream so you won't run out of either. There are biodegradable soaps and shampoos on the rack there. Here's a new loofa scrub brush you can use as well. I'll leave you clean clothes on the counter just inside the door. I'll get these washed immediately after your shower," he said as he bent down and picked up the clothes she'd stepped out of. Dumping the dirty clothes inside and pulling the laundry bag from the hamper he turned to leave and felt a gentle tug at his sleeve. He looked back and she was standing very close, trembling slightly, looking down but stealing quick glances at his eyes. He could see that desperate need was back in her eyes. "Willow, please take your shower. You'll be fine now. We'll talk once you are done and dressed again, okay?" he said, his voice trembling slightly. God she was so beautiful but so damaged! He could really mess her up if he wasn't careful. To Be Continued in part 2, based on a post by BurntRedstone for Literotica

What does it mean to be led beside springs of water when life feels like a battlefield? In this episode, Brett explores the tenderness of God's guidance, a kind of intimacy that quenches the soul even when circumstances run dry. This conversation invites us to rediscover the springs of refreshment that flow even in the valley, where heaven and earth sing of His compassion. Follow along with the book here: https://a.co/d/5EawCWe Connect with Brett Johnson on social media: Facebook Instagram Twitter LinkedIn Visit brettjohnson.biz for articles, devotionals, and more.

Samādhi is the Sanskrit word for a state of peaceful, integrated absorption the mind can reach through meditation. And people's faces in meditation have been a source of fascination (and distraction) for documentary filmmaker Hartley Woolf since he began his own Buddhist practice. “I can't help but enjoy taking in all the different expressions around me in the shrine room,” he says, “and wondering what's going on inside the mind behind.” Join us for a delightful conversation between an artist and some of his subjects (Bhadra, Eugene Furniss and Maitrijyoti) as we explore the beautiful intimacy of this unique art project. In the most mindful way, Hartley sets out to capture something of the mystery of meditation, expressed in the faces of a diverse set of humans trying to be present with their experience. The result is an extraordinary book of portrait photography and we are privileged to hear reflections after the fact from some of those sitting and from the artist himself. Self-consciousness and self-perception, what we look for in people's faces and expressions, the vulnerability of meditating with others and of being witnessed – this conversation flows, you might say, like the breath, opening into a space of genuine shared gratitude for a memorable shared experience of sitting in stillness, and being in relationship. Produced and presented by Candradasa, edited by Zac Pomphrey and Candradasa *** "When I began this project, it was simply about capturing the subtlety of human facial expression. It quickly became about much more than that, however: my emotional connection to the sitter in that moment; the impact the lights, camera and my presence had on their meditation; the very act of watching for those subtle changes and deciding when to press the shutter. All these things became just as interesting—if not more so. I saw all kinds of emotions play out on my sitters' faces. They may not have all reached such advanced states as samādhi, but I did see a lot of vulnerability, pleasure, discomfort, and courage. I'm very grateful to them all for allowing me (and you) into their intimate worlds of practice for a brief moment." Hartley Woolf Show Notes Order ‘Portraits of Samadhi' by Hartley Woolf (Hardback) Revisting the Romantics by Vishvapani (free with sign-up) Alfoxton Park Retreat Centre A Renovating Virtue: Hartley's film about the Alfoxton project Listen to The Intimacy of Art and the Dharma on painting as practice Eisenstein on co-creating films as art  |  A Dialectic Approach to Film Form by Sergei Eisenstein  Hartley Woolf's website  |  Follow Hartley on Instagram *** Visit The Buddhist Centre Live (events year-round on Buddhism, mindfulness, meditation, and culture) Come meditate with us online six days a week! Theme music by Ackport! Used with kind permission.

Are you in a marriage where the passion has stalled? Would you like to learn how to build sexual tension with your wife? Would you like to become unashamedly confident in your ability to lead the intimate part of your relationship?In our coaching, we help men get a powerful new mindset that empowers you to give, love and connect more deeply because you're finally doing that within yourself first. This mindset allows empathy, trust and connection to happen because you're confident in who you're being. We teach skills and knowledge that nobody ever teaches men when we're younger. Skills and knowledge that make you feel confident and in control even when chaos is going on around you. It's amazing what you can achieve when you make yourself a priority. Most men don't.   They are too busy taking care of everyone else.  Too busy minding the store and making the money.   They are focused on the "outside game" of winning life. But their "inside game" of confidence and clarity is suffering badly. You can only improve your inside game with other men. We would love to help you become more calm, more strong emotionally and more confident and happy in who you are as a man. Come and join us, either through 1-on-1 coaching with my colleague Dan Dore or me, or in our group coaching program with other amazing men who are travelling the same path as you right now in our Men's Live Coaching Roundtable. There's an amazing tribe of guys in this group with us, supporting and helping each other through this process of growth and self realization. https://goodguys2greatmen.com/goodguys2greatmen-live-coaching-roundtable/ If you're facing possible divorce, we have an online course which is specifically for you - Defuse the Divorce Bomb: https://mojopolis.thinkific.com/courses/HDDB-preview?ref=a53950 What if this next year everything changed for you? That's what we want for you brother, We love teaching men these tools - how to be better, how to know who you are, what you stand for, what you want and how to CREATE it in your life through our Masculine Confidence coaching programs. Dan and I are here to guide you on this mission.https://goodguys2greatmen.com/mens-relationship-coaching/ Steve's book Straight Talk Tools for the Desperate Husband will help you to lead yourself and your relationship back to good health. Understand why your partner acts the way she does toward you and learn how to lead your life in the direction you want it to go. You CAN have the relationship you want, fulfilling all your desires while maintaining love and respect.https://goodguys2greatmen.com/straight-talk-tools-for-the-desperate-husband/ We also have a free e-book to help men learn how to lose their fear and be more bold in their marriage to create the love and connection they want. Get The Hard to Swallow Truth About Saving Your Marriage: https://goodguys2greatmen.com/ If you want to learn more about how to take a bigger step toward being a clear-headed, confident man of action, then find out more here: https://goodguys2greatmen.com/mens-relationship-coaching/ We would be thrilled to help you get there - our first discovery call is always free and always gives you a BIG boost of confidence. You WILL become a clearer, stronger, more confident man only through other men. Your woman cannot take you there - and she doesn't WANT to...trust us on that. Sign up to receive our email newsletters for lots more free tips and advice here: https://archive.aweber.com/stevemain Subscribe to be notified whenever we upload a new video: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC13h36xaBvyTPVAES4-4rXw?sub_confirmation=1 You can watch all our videos here: https://goodguys2greatmen.com/video-library/ Or read our blog articles here: https://goodguys2greatmen.com/blog/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/goodguys2greatmen-podcast--4650431/support.

How often do you observe your partner's nonverbal communication? Their facial expressions, their tone, their body language. Believe it or not, more is often said through nonverbal communication than through verbal communication. In this episode on the Dr. Wyatt Marriage Podcast I break down the top things to watch for and what it may mean about your partner. 

When everything around us is changing, how do we stay grounded without shutting down?In this week's episode, we dive into The Three Marks of Existence. Qualities that are true for anything that exists. Yes, anything!We'll explore impermanence, suffering, and the concept of “not-self” and talk about how releasing clinging to our sense of Self can deepen connection and freedom and ease in our lives. This allows us to love AND ride the challenging times more freely.You will learn:• Why facing change, instead of fighting it, might be the most radical act of peace.• How to turn the ache of impermanence into appreciation, presence, and freedom.• The real meaning of “suffering” in Buddhism (and why it's not as depressing as it sounds).• What the Buddha meant by “not-self” — and how loosening our grip on identity can bring deep relief and belonging.• Simple ways to meet uncertainty and loss with steadiness, not fear.• How these teachings can make you more grounded, compassionate, and awake in a world that's constantly shifting.Resources:// Episode 9: Impermanence, Death, and Other Sexy Things// Episode 60: How to Avoid Unnecessary Suffering// Episode 63: Being Human is Hard – the First Noble Truth// Episode 64: Cultivating Radiant Inner Confidence – Ziji// Episode 222: Struggling with When Things End// If you're new to the squad, grab the Rebel Buddhist Toolkit I created at RebelBuddhist.com. It has all you need to start creating a life of more freedom, adventure, and purpose. You'll also get access to the Rebel Buddhist private group, and tune in every Wednesday as I go live with new inspiration and topics.// Want something more self-paced with access to weekly group support and getting coached by yours truly? Check out Freedom School – the community for ALL things related to freedom, inside and out. We dive into taking wisdom and applying it to our daily lives, with different topics every month. Learn more at JoinFreedomSchool.com. I can't wait to see you there!// Have you benefited from even one episode of the Rebel Buddhist Podcast? I'd love it if you could leave a 5-star review on iTunes by clicking here  or on Spotify by clicking here.

Giving as a practice simply can't be ignored if we are to follow Jesus. In fact, some studies show 15% of Jesus' teachings have to do with money or possessions. Jeremy dives into the conversation with Doug Kiesewetter—CEO of Cogency Power & Chairman of WaterStone, veteran of 10+ successful start-ups. He's grown 3 companies from inception to over $100MM in capital value. Doug sets the bar high and inspires us all to obey Jesus at a new level.Ordinary Movement is a discipleship platform that equips men and women to be disciples who make disciples. Our focus is on supporting small groups led by ordinary/everyday Christians. We have specialized discipleship tracks that center around Intimacy with Jesus, Intentional Relationships, and Multiplication. Groups are designed for individuals to easily engage in leading groups.Ready to be a disciple who makes disciples?If so, come and join us!Visit ordinarymovement.com to learn more!#discipleship #disciplemaking #disciple

On this episode of The Jubal Show, we test your news-spotting skills with our viral segment Real News or Fake News. From hospitals accidentally “killing” hundreds of patients to startups promoting office intimacy pods, and even New Yorkers making millions just by watching parked cars can you tell what’s real and what’s made up? Tune in for laughs, jaw-dropping headlines, and your weekly sanity check on the wild world of viral news. You can find every podcast we have, including the full show every weekday right here…➡︎ https://thejubalshow.com/podcasts The Jubal Show is everywhere, and also these places: Website ➡︎ https://thejubalshow.com Instagram ➡︎ https://instagram.com/thejubalshow X/Twitter ➡︎ https://twitter.com/thejubalshow Tiktok ➡︎ https://www.tiktok.com/@the.jubal.show Facebook ➡︎ https://facebook.com/thejubalshow YouTube ➡︎ https://www.youtube.com/@JubalFresh Support the show: https://the-jubal-show.beehiiv.com/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this open and unapologetic conversation, Jeff Abraham, CEO of Promescent, talks about sexual wellness, communication, and confidence at any age. From lube myths to aging libidos, solo masturbation to mutual pleasure, we explore how science, honesty, and a sense of humor can transform your sex life. It's a conversation that every man (and his partner) should hear—because better sex starts with better communication. Here's what you'll... Discover How To Talk Before You Touch: How open, honest conversations build deeper intimacy. Learn How Science Meets Pleasure: Why sexual wellness is as much about health as it is about fun. Explore Why Confidence Is Sexy: How age, communication, and the right tools can reignite passion. About Jeff Jeff Abraham leads Promescent with a bold vision to make sexual wellness more accessible, effective, and inclusive. After a successful career in tech recruiting, Jeff was introduced to a revolutionary treatment for premature ejaculation (PE) by his close friend, urologist Dr. Ronald Gilbert. Inspired by its potential to change lives, Jeff invested in the product and became the majority owner - launching what would become Promescent's flagship Delay Spray. Following Dr. Gilbert's unfortunate passing in 2013, Jeff relocated the company to Las Vegas and took over as CEO. Under his leadership, Promescent evolved from a company focused on a single groundbreaking solution into a full-spectrum sexual wellness brand. Today, the product line includes doctor-developed solutions for both men and women—from arousal gels and lubricants to supplements and toys - serving a wide range of intimate health needs. With more than 4 million bottles sold and over 2,500 healthcare professionals recommending Promescent, Jeff has helped transform the company into a trusted name in sexual wellness. His direct, mission-driven approach continues to guide the brand's growth and redefine how people connect—with themselves and each other. Get your 15% when ordering any products from Promescent - CLICK HERE Connect With Jeff Website Instagram Hey Guys, Check This Out! Are you a guy who keeps struggling to do that thing? You know the thing you keep telling yourself and others you're going to do, but never do? Then it's time to get real and figure out why. Join the 40 Plus: Gay Men Gay Talk, monthly chats. They happen the third Monday of each month at 5:00 pm Pacific - Learn More! Also, join our Facebook Community - 40 Plus: Gay Men, Gay Talk Community Break free of fears. Make bold moves. Live life without apologies

Men say intimacy starts in the bedroom - women say it starts in the heart.This episode of The Miami Poshcast dives deep into how men and women define intimacy and why those definitions can make or break relationships.We unpack:❤️ What intimacy looks like for men vs. women

Money and intimacy have more in common than most couples realize. In this episode, we sit down with financial coach Dan Ockey to talk about financial intimacy — how the way you manage money together reflects the way you handle trust, communication, and teamwork in every other area of your marriage (yes, even the bedroom). You'll hear Dan Ockey's incredible story of turning debt, secrecy, and shame into a story of honesty, unity, and freedom — and how money challenges can actually strengthen your relationship if you face them together. In this episode: How financial habits mirror sexual habits in marriage Why secrecy and pride around money create the same distance as sexual disconnection Simple mindset shifts that restore trust and teamwork If you've ever argued about money, felt shame around spending, or struggled to get on the same page with your spouse — this episode will help you see finances not as a source of stress, but as a powerful tool for connection and intimacy.

What happens when high-performing moms carry hidden pain no one sees? This episode exposes the emotional cost of perfection, attachment wounds, and the struggle to feel safe in love and motherhood. Topics Covered

How do you tell your teenage influencer that their lucrative side-hustle is about to become illegal? On today's show Holly, Jessie and Em discuss the Aussie family of Youtubers who've decided to leave the country to beat the looming social media ban. Also, in this age of full disclosure, why is there one kind of sex that we absolutely do not talk about? And is that silence a mark of respect, or a doing disservice to long-term relationships? Plus, what is a Compliment Hour and why do I need a Rage Ritual? Em is sharing some trending life hacks for all of us. And Jessie has an update about her twins. Were her instincts spot on, or did she (and our tarot card reader) get some stuff wrong? Support independent women's media Recommendations Em is all about Chad Powers on Disney +. Jessie recommends The Elements by John Boyne. Holly recommends a playlist for writing or focus. Creative Writing No Words by Katie Beth Bylerley and Music for writing, study flow and focus by Zoe Foster Blake, both are on Spotify. What To Listen To Next: Listen to our latest episode: Every Single Thing We Have In Our Handbags Listen: 'Smellmaxxing' & The New Place We Apparently Stink Listen: Uh Oh, Harry & Meghan. The Fallout From Andrew’s Banishment Listen: This Is Just The Beginning Of Andrew’s Humiliation Listen: The New Love Language & A Fitness Dating Test Listen: Mia, Nobody Wants This & A Robust Debrief Listen: Everything We Refuse To Spend Money On Listen: An Unevenly Open Marriage & ‘Likeable’ Kristen Bell Listen: Other People’s Marriages & Your New 'Shobby' Connect your subscription to Apple Podcasts Discover more Mamamia Podcasts here including the very latest episode of Parenting Out Loud, the parenting podcast for people who don't listen to... parenting podcasts. Watch Mamamia Out Loud: Mamamia Out Loud on YouTube What to read: 'Social media has given our family so many opportunities. Australia's ban could take it all away.' What the new social media ban actually means for your kids. Not sure if your teen should be on YouTube? A surprising number of experts are against its banning. HOLLY WAINWRIGHT: Nothing cures creative block like discovering your husband's secret sex lair. The real reason long-term couples stop having sex, and it's probably not what you think. Every single photo from #RichTok queen Becca Bloom's Lake Como wedding. THE END BITS: Check out our merch at MamamiaOutLoud.com GET IN TOUCH: Feedback? We’re listening. Send us an email at outloud@mamamia.com.au Share your story, feedback, or dilemma! Send us a voice message. Join our Facebook group Mamamia Outlouders to talk about the show. Follow us on Instagram @mamamiaoutloud and on Tiktok @mamamiaoutloud CREDITS: Hosts: Emily Vernem, Jessie Stephens & Holly Wainwright Group Executive Producer: Ruth Devine Executive Producer: Sasha Tannock Audio Producer: Leah Porges Video Producer: Josh Green Junior Content Producer: Tessa KotowiczBecome a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when you realize the map you've followed for love is broken?In this episode of Man on Fire Rising, David Mailer dives into the ten mistakes men make when their marriages are slipping away.He shares personal stories and client experiences to expose how ignoring warning signs, living in your head, and seeking solace outside your vows erode trust.The payoff is a call to awaken: to drop the blame, embrace vulnerability, and choose faithfulness over fleeting comfort.- ~[00:00] Ignoring small signs of disconnection leads to big ruptures later.- ~[00:02] Common warning signs include separate bedrooms, constant phones, and statements like “I need space.”- ~[00:06] Logic and analysis won't save your marriage; feeling and presence will.- ~[00:08] Don't hide behind your kids, work, or hobbies to avoid intimacy.- ~[00:10] Weaponizing your children and seeking affairs deepen wounds across generations.- ~[00:12] Faith and perseverance are essential—don't give up on your vows.Watch the full episode on YouTube or subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Audible. And if this resonated with you, please leave a review and share it with a friend who needs to hear it.

How does obsessive compulsive disorder manifest in sex and relationships? In so many ways, but treatment is possible and effective. Karen talks with sex therapist Laura Federico about the root issue in OCD, ramifications, and solutions. The shame of minor attraction and getting help is included. They also discuss Laura's new book The Cycle Book, about the effect of menstrual hormones on the body and mind.On this episode:Psychologist and sex therapist Laura Federico Host Karen Yates  The Cycle Book and related events - Buy on Bookshop or AmazonBuy on Bookshop and support Wild & Sublime! “Sexual Intrusive Thoughts” on the SMSNA siteSupport the showFollow Wild & Sublime on Instagram and Facebook!

What if the secret to better sex, stronger orgasms, and more confidence isn't another relationship hack—but your pelvic floor?This week, I'm joined by Jana Danielson, sensual health and pelvic floor wellness expert, Pilates master instructor, and creator of the Cooch Ball (yes, that's really what it's called). Jana and I met in a group for sex-positive professionals, and even though she's delightfully monogamous—we don't discriminate against the monogamous here—her work is pure gold for every body.We talk about the 14 muscles that literally make or break pleasure, why so many people struggle with tension or numbness “down there,” and how breathwork, movement, and curiosity can completely transform your sensual life.Whether you're poly, monogamous, or somewhere beautifully in-between, this conversation will help you reconnect with your body, your desire, and your pleasure—because honestly, you deserve to feel amazing in your skin.

Struggling with pelvic pain that's affecting your intimacy? You're not alone, and the good news is, there are practical steps you can take to find relief while deepening your connection with your partner. In this video, we share what to do (and what not to do) if you want better intimacy and less pelvic pain. You'll learn how certain habits, positions, and approaches can either ease or aggravate discomfort, plus what helps create safety and relaxation in your body. Whether you're dealing with pain during sex, tension from stress, or physical challenges that impact closeness, this video will give you tools and insights to reclaim pleasure, reduce pain, and strengthen your bond with your partner.

Knowing God by Name – Women’s Fall Focus Thursdays The post Names of Intimacy – Christy Duff appeared first on Calvary Vista.

How does our intimacy (or lack of intimacy) with creation impact our intimacy with God, ourselves and others? Will the sea be warmer in the new creation? And when's the Intimacy Deficit merch dropping? Ed and Andy are joined by Anne to answer all the important questions.Resources mentioned and related The Intimacy Deficit by Ed ShawGod of All Things: Rediscovering the Sacred in an Everyday World by Andrew WilsonBrickHabiticaiNaturalist  MerlinKeswick Convention talks on the intimacy deficit

Are you ready to bring more laughter, curiosity, and connection into your bedroom? In this episode of The Intimate Marriage Podcast, Dr. Alexandra Stockwell invites you to rediscover the joy of being playful with your partner—because sensuality thrives when you stop taking it all so seriously! Dr. Alexandra shares how playfulness enhances erotic intimacy, reignites passion, fosters emotional safety, and makes you feel more alive together. Discover how laughter, spontaneity, and creative exploration melt away tension, awaken your desire, and turn ordinary moments into deeply fulfilling experiences of love and pleasure.   Episode highlights: How play and laughter open the door to deeper erotic connection Simple, creative ways to add playfulness to your sensual experiences How letting go of self-consciousness strengthens intimacy and trust Ideas for role play, music, and mood-setting to reignite desire Why being "sexy and silly" together leads to lasting passion and joy   Want to enhance your comfort and sensual connection? Get your Loveblanket here: https://love-blanket.com/?ref=ALEXANDRASTOCKWELL Use code ALEXANDRA10 at checkout for 10% off.       Subscribe To The Intimate Marriage Podcast: Apple Podcast | YouTube | Spotify Connect With Alexandra Stockwell, MD: Website | Linkedin | Instagram   Get your copy of "Uncompromising Intimacy" by Dr. Alexandra Stockwell here: https://amzn.to/2ymI3Hl Download the first chapter of Dr Alexandra's bestselling book, "Uncompromising Intimacy," here:  https://www.alexandrastockwell.com/book   Cultivate your intimacy skills (without compromise) in Aligned & Hot Marriage, Dr. Alexandra's proven method for smart couples ready to love more fully:  www.alignedhotmarriage.com   Join Dr. Alexandra's email list to stay connected. She shares inspiring stories, her latest insights and opportunities to learn with her:  https://www.alexandrastockwell.com/subscribe   This Podcast Is Produced, Engineered & Edited By:  Simplified Impact

It proposes that the human psyche functions as a holographic microcosm of the cosmos—each person a localized expression of the same fundamental awareness that animates all existence. Just as every fragment of a hologram contains the pattern of the whole image, each human being carries the complete blueprint of wholeness within them, even when trauma, conditioning, or egoic distortion obscures that pattern. From this perspective, psychological fragmentation—the unhealed wounds, dissociated memories, and defensive identities we carry—is not a permanent flaw but a phase distortion within the holographic field of consciousness. These distortions create what appear to be isolated “pocket realities” or wound-based worlds: self-reinforcing loops of perception where the nervous system, seeking safety, limits awareness to familiar pain.

Tebori tattooing, a traditional Japanese hand-poked method, is more than just a technique; it embodies a philosophy that emphasizes a profound human connection and energy transfer between the tattoo artist and the client. Practiced for thousands of years, this method involves using a long stick with needles attached to the end, allowing the artist to create tattoos without the aid of machines. This simplicity lies at the heart of the Tebori experience, fostering a unique and intimate atmosphere during the tattooing process, and our guest today is one of the masters of this craft.   In this episode of Chats & Tatts, host Aaron Della Vedova welcomes Rueben "Horikei" Kayden, a seasoned tattoo artist with 26 years of experience, to discuss the evolution of tattooing. The conversation delves into the past, present, and future of the industry, exploring how it has rapidly transformed over the years. The guest shares valuable insights, particularly about tabori tattooing, the traditional Japanese hand-poked method that has been practiced for thousands of years. Aaron and his guest reflect on the significance of this ancient technique in contrast to modern tattooing practices, setting the stage for a deep dive into the art and culture of tattooing.  Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that highlights the artistry and craftsmanship behind tattoos. Chat Highlights: [00:01:06] Future of tattooing. [00:06:17] Tattooing in Japan. [00:10:28] Energy transfer in tattooing. [00:17:09] Spirituality in craftsmanship. [00:31:56] Tabori technique challenges. [00:36:08] Power of simplicity in tattoos. [00:46:10] Tattoo pain management techniques. [00:49:23] Tattooing under anesthesia discussion. [00:58:19] Tattoo past, present, and future. [01:01:22] The beauty of impermanence. [01:05:04] Future of handmade artistry. [01:07:19] Tattooing as a lifestyle choice. [01:12:00] Traditional Japanese tattooing.   Quotes:   "We're tattooers, man. We're not in the business of being people's, you know, helping them be more personally responsible with their lives." -Aaron "It's a human to human contact. There's no electrons, there's no machine, there's no rotary, there's no cartridge, there's no nothing. It's simplicity at its best, right? It's art made by humans for humans." -Horikei   "You're like a horse with blinders on. You're just like the smell, you know, smell, sight, emotions, all of it's all interconnected." -Horikei   "I just know it's happening and it's beautiful and it's really become probably the thing I'm most happy about to have spent my life doing this art form." -Aaron   "Tebori is a human rhythm... it rocks you to sleep." -Horikei   "It was more dangerous to drive the fucking car than it was to go in under anesthesia." -Aaron   "We're tattooers, man. We're not in the business of being people's, you know, helping them be more personally responsible with their lives." -Aaron   "Comparison is the thief of all joy, man, for sure." -Horikei   Stay Connected: Chats & Tatts: Website: http://www.chatsandtatts.com⁠ Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chatsandtatts  IG: http://www.instagram.com/chatsandtatts Chats & Tatts YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/chatsandtatts Connect with Aaron:⁠   Aaron IG:⁠ http://www.instagram.com/aarondellavedova⁠ Guru Tattoo: http://www.Gurutattoo.com Connect with Horikei: IG:https://www.instagram.com/horikei617/  

Can You Imagine Having the Tools to Easily Rewrite Your Relationship with Intimacy and Create a More Fulfilling (and Juicier) Life? Join us on this episode of Shameless Sex, where we dive into the world of Intimacy Rewired. Not only will you learn about this online course that will transform your relationships and life, but you will also walk away with a few life changing tools to apply in your own life. Amy Baldwin and Ian Stratton are the masterminds behind this groundbreaking program, and they're here to share more about this program, alongside guests such as Dr. Nazanin Moali, Keeley Rankin, MA, Dr. Charlie Glickman, Sarah Tomchessen, and more. Here's what you can expect from this episode: • The whys and how-to's on easy tools for sexual and romantic healing that will last and actually change your life • A personal and intimate conversation with Amy and Ian about their journey to creating Intimacy Rewired and why they think healing doesn't always have to be hard (or unpleasant) • A deep dive into the course's unique approach to transforming intimacy, including how to break free from patterns that hold you back • A live demo (on April!) of their approach, using a real-life communication snag as an example • Insights into how the course can help you build a stronger, more resilient sense of self and create lasting change Ian Stratton, a lifelong healing nerd, has spent thousands of hours leading deep work with individuals and groups, blending Internal Family Systems, somatic psychotherapy, breathwork, and ethical psychedelic practice. His goal? To make personal growth real, practical, and accessible. Amy Baldwin brings her own brand of obsession to the table, and together, they've created a program that's simple, fun, and accessible. With a focus on active learning and integration, Intimacy Rewired is not just a course – it's a journey of transformation. So, what sets Intimacy Rewired apart from other courses and workshops? According to Ian and Amy, it's the combination of simple practices, habits, and actionable steps that make it stick. They'll share their approach, and you'll get a taste of what it's like to work with them. Ready to transform your intimacy and create a more fulfilling life? Shameless Sex listeners get $100 off the course – just head to https://intimacyrewired.com and mention the show. As Amy says, "Come play with us." Don't miss this opportunity to rewrite your relationship with intimacy and create a more fulfilling life. Follow Amy on IG @amyshamelesssex Get premium access to our behind the scenes episodes here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://shamelesssex.supportingcast.fm⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Do you love us? Do you REALLY love us? Then order ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠our book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ now! Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠shamelesssex.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to snag your copy Support Shameless Sex by sending us gifts via our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon Wish List⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other links: Get 45% off our favorite (super hot) ethical porn with code SEX45 at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://erikalust.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get 10% off happy, healthy, soaking wet bits with code SHAMELESS at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠vb.health⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get 10% off + free shipping with code SHAMELESS on Uberlube AKA our favorite lubricant at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://uberlube.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get 10% off while learning the art of pleasure at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://OMGyes.com/shameless⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get 15% off all of your sex toys with code SHAMELESSSEX at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://purepleasureshop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of The Living Easy Podcast, Lindsey Maestas opens a biblical and deeply practical conversation about intimacy in marriage—because God makes all things new, even in the bedroom. Sex may not really matter to you, but it does matter to your marriage. See the FULL curriculum for: The Sex and Intimacy Project: A 4-Week Video Study a His + Hers Workbook for a Stronger Sex Life  Lindsey unpacks how physical connection is both a spiritual and emotional act of service, not just a physical one. She discusses the dangers of pornography and limerence (infatuation during affairs), how these habits alter neural pathways, and how to create a sex life in your marriage that you don't need to escape from.  You'll hear about: Why Scripture calls us not to deprive one another of sex (1 Corinthians 7:5) Why the clitoris reminds us that God created sex for pleasure How faking orgasms creates emotional distance and false intimacy What it means to "show and tell" in your marriage — teaching your spouse what makes you feel good during sex How foreplay actually begins outside the bedroom, through kindness, affection, and communication The importance of serving one another in physical foreplay The "microwave vs. crockpot" concept and understanding your spouse's arousal rhythms Seeing your partner's body as a book to study — learning, honoring, and cherishing it as a form of worship to God This is a conversation about reclaiming intimacy, breaking shame, and learning to experience sex as a holy gift that strengthens your connection rather than erodes it. When we become intentional about how we love each other physically, we build the kind of trust, pleasure, and connection that keeps our marriages from burning down. SEO Keywords: Christian marriage intimacy, biblical sex advice, foreplay tips, Christian relationships, marriage podcast, faith-based intimacy, godly marriage connection, how to improve intimacy, healthy sex in marriage, Lindsey Maestas podcast Connect with Lindsey: Instagram: @livingeasywithlindsey Website: www.sparrowsandlily.com Preorder Lindsey's book Don't Burn Your Own House Down

Learn about why sexual intimacy is essential and how neglecting this pillar can quietly erode your closeness and connection. | “Intimacy is not a luxury — it's a lifeline. It's the way we know we are not alone in the world.” —Sue Johnson Is it really possible to rekindle the spark and restore the “like-new” connection in your marriage? Yes it is! In the 6 Pillars of Intimacy, you will discover secrets that have transformed countless marriages. Its ideas are simple, practical, and powerful. You'll be inspired to look at your marriage through a new lens and be encouraged by its commonsense approach. Alisa and Tony DiLorenzo's proven approach to building intimacy in marriage will help you experience deeper and richer levels of intimacy with your spouse – starting today. Click HERE to get your copy today! Links from today's episode: The 6 Pillars at Sea Marriage Getaway Foreplay to Passion Program Apply for Coaching With Alisa Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Pre-Order The Forever Strong PLAYBOOK and receive exclusive bonuses: https://drgabriellelyon.com/playbook/Want ad-free episodes and access to community Q&As? Subscribe to Forever Strong Insider: https://foreverstrong.supercast.comIn this explosive episode, Dr. Gabrielle Lyon sits down with relationship expert Marianne Brandon to confront the modern crisis of intimacy and sexual wellness. They dive into how the digital world—including porn, AI companions, and VR technology—is creating an evolutionary mismatch that clashes with our primal needs for bonding, leading to rising loneliness and sexual dysfunction.Dr. Lyon and Marianne Brandon explore the science behind what truly impacts performance, from erectile dysfunction (ED) and hormonal imbalances to the neurological effects of stress. This is a must-watch for couples, parents, and anyone navigating romance in the digital age.----------Chapter Markers0:00 - Intro0:49 - The Primal Need for Sex vs. The Digital World1:10 - The Hidden Cause of Erectile Dysfunction (ED)2:10 - The Loneliness Crisis: Gen Z, AI, and Intimacy3:50 - Do Women and Men Experience Desire Differently?5:15 - Stress is the #1 Libido Killer6:30 - Porn and AI: Is Sexting with a Bot Cheating?8:05 - The Surprising Impact of VR Porn on Sperm Quality9:30 - Action Plan: The #1 Move to Improve Your Sex Life TodayWho is Marianne Brandon:Dr. Marianne Brandon is a licensed clinical psychologist and a diplomate in sex therapy, recognized for her expertise in technologies impact on intimacy, evolutionary influences on human sexuality, and cultivating a more exciting sexual connection in long-term relationships. Dr. Brandon is best known for her forward-thinking work on the future of intimacy through blogging, lecturing, and podcasting. Her popular Psychology Today blog, “The Future of Intimacy,” explores emerging trends in technology and human connection. As a continuing education provider, she lectures on sex tech's impact on intimacy as well as the impact of technology on humanity. Together with her husband, urologist Dr. Abraham Morgentaler, she co-hosts the podcast “The Sex Doctors,” bringing expert insight and candid dialogue to listeners on all aspects of sex, relationships, and technology's transformative role in our lives. Drawing from nearly three decades of clinical experience, she offers psychotherapy focused on relationship issues and sexual concerns, with a reputation for blending clinical skill and compassionate care.This episode is brought to you by: - BodyHealth - - Timeline - Get 20% off your order at https://timeline.com/LYON - OneSkin - Get 15% off with the code DRLYON – https://www.oneskin.co Find Marianne Brandon at: - https://www.drbrandon.net/- https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariannebrandon-59224513- https://x.com/drbrandon Find Dr. Gabrielle Lyon at: - Instagram:@drgabriellelyon - TikTok: @drgabriellelyon- Facebook: facebook.com/doctorgabriellelyon- YouTube: youtube.com/@DrGabrielleLyon- X (Twitter): x.com/drgabriellelyon- Apply to become a patient – https://drgabriellelyon.com/new-patient-inquiry/- Join my weekly newsletter – https://institute-for-muscle-centric-medicine.ck.page- Pre-order my new book - https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1668085623 Disclaimer: The Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Podcast and YouTube are for general information purposes only and do not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast, YouTube, or materials linked from this podcast or YouTube is at the user's own risk. The...

No one prepares you for how much your relationship changes after having a baby. The exhaustion, hormones, mental load, and body changes all take a toll on desire and closeness, and it's rarely talked about honestly. In this Follow Up episode, Dr. Mona talks with Dr. Tracy Dalgleish about what really happens to intimacy after baby. They unpack why desire often dips postpartum, how to reconnect emotionally and physically, and why great sex isn't about frequency. It's about connection, communication, and redefining what intimacy looks like now. This episode is for any parent who's ever thought something's changed between us and I don't know how to fix it. You're not broken, you're human, and this conversation will help you find your way back to each other. Why desire often drops after childbirth and how to understand it without shame How hormones, sleep, and stress affect intimacy The difference between spontaneous and responsive desire How to start rebuilding emotional connection in 10 minutes a day The role of small rituals like check-ins, laughter, and simple touch in rekindling closeness Why there's no normal amount of sex, only what feels right for you and your partner Ways to talk openly about what you both want and need Dr. Tracy's new book, "You, Your Husband, and His Mother" comes out November 4th. Order your copy here. Want more? Check out the full episode. Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠. Get trusted pediatric advice, relatable parenting insights, and evidence-based tips delivered straight to your inbox—join thousands of parents who rely on the PDT newsletter to stay informed, supported, and confident. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠! And don't forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support. We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices