Podcasts about Pleasure

Welcome to Get Up in the Cool: Old Time Music with Cameron DeWhitt and Friends. This week's friend is Eli Broxham! We recorded this earlier in the month at his home in Nashville. Tunes in this episode: * Fine Times at Our House (0:30) * Old Horse and Buggy (16:54) * Julianne Johnson (38:07) * Shove that Pig's Foot a Little Further into the Fire (52:26) * Liza Jane (1:01:15) * BONUS TRACK: Susanna Gal Visit Eli Broxham's website (https://www.elibroxham.com/) Visit Dallas Ugly's website (https://www.dallasugly.com/) Follow Eli on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/elibroxham/) Follow Dallas Ugly on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/dallasugly/) Sign up for my Playing Up the Neck online workshop series before Jan. 7 (https://www.camerondewhitt.com/store) Support Get Up in the Cool on Patreon (https://www.patreon.com/getupinthecool) Send Tax Deductible Donations to Get Up in the Cool through Fracture Atlas (https://fundraising.fracturedatlas.org/get-up-in-the-cool) Sign up at Pitchfork Banjo for my clawhammer instructional series! (https://www.pitchforkbanjo.com/) Schedule a banjo lesson with Cameron (https://www.camerondewhitt.com/banjolessons) Visit Tall Poppy String Band's website (https://www.tallpoppystringband.com/) and follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/tallpoppystringband/) follow Sweeten the Third on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/sweetenthethird/?hl=en)

Part 4: Pleasure, Joy + Comfort as important acts of self-care. In this episode of the series, I walk you through how pleasure, joy, and comfort are not luxuries — they are essential acts of self care. I share real, personal examples of joy and comfort from my own life — from dancing at a Bad Bunny concert, to savoring comforting foods and cozy clothes, to planning a family Holiday moment that lit up my heart. Pleasure, JOY and comfort matters deeply, activating the brain's reward and connection systems. Humans across history, across cultures —have used dance, art, and music as survival tools in times of oppression. This episode invites you to reclaim joy and comfort as essential parts of your self‑care and resilience. This is not self‑care fluff. It's much needed support and medicine. Press play. Brenda PS. GRAB THE HOLIDAY PLAYLIST  For Holiday Season support, we've curated a list of my best holiday and end-of-year episodes — all in one place. You can find it at: www.brendalomeli.com/holidayplaylist  

(Sydney Insight Meditators)

The NFL regular season is nearing its end, and there are plenty of must-watch games in Week 18. However, there are plenty of duds on the schedule as well. How do you decipher those can't miss games from those which you only keep tabs on your fantasy football team for? That's where the For Your Viewing Pleasure podcast comes in where hosts Jeff Hartman and Wesley Coleman talk about the slate of games in Week 18, and what you should, and shouldn't, be watching. This podcast is a part of the Pro Football Insiders. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Science Fiction Audio Drama.  A new hero is capturing the imagination of the citizens on Mendaxia. His name is Bash Jordan, Alien Hunter! But behind the scenes, Bash is starting to realise that fame comes with a price. How far is he willing to go to achieve his dreams? Cast: Nick Hucker, Juliet Hargreaves, Ellen Hillman, Sarah Hodgson, Dan Proctor Written and Produced by Dan Proctor 'Galaxy of Lies' composed by Juliet Hargreaves

Why do some people find pleasure in pain? In this educational, sex-positive series, we are going to explore the science and psychology behind erotic pain—how certain sensations activate the brain's pleasure centers, why trust and vulnerability deepen the experience, and how kink dynamics create powerful emotional intimacy. In part 1 of this series we break down different types of sensation play, from spanking and scratching to temperature play and BDSM tools, all through a lens of consent, safety, and communication. Whether you're curious about kink, experienced in BDSM, or simply interested in how pleasure works, this episode offers a thoughtful, judgment-free look at the beauty of consensual pain and the connection it can create. Each part of this series we will feature deeper exploration into these topics. Send the us your sex and relationship questions and maybe you will inspire the next episode of The Dildo Whisperer. We have two ways to reach the show. You can call into our show at 844-695-2766 or you can email us at Askthedw@gmail.com. Follow us on social media @dildowhisperer The Dildo Whisperer is produced by DNR Studios. To subscribe to this show and the rest of the DNR Network of shows including the Cookie Jar Podcast visit: www.dnrstudios.com

Welcome to Episode 314 of Lucretius Today. This is a podcast dedicated to the poet Lucretius, who wrote "On The Nature of Things," the most complete presentation of Epicurean philosophy left to us from the ancient world. Each week we walk you through the Epicurean texts, and we discuss how Epicurean philosophy can apply to you today. If you find the Epicurean worldview attractive, we invite you to join us in the study of Epicurus at EpicureanFriends.com, where we discuss this and all of our podcast episodes.   We are closing in on the end of those portions of Tusculan Disputations that are most relevant to Epicurean philosophy today, so we'll pick up this week after Section 26 of Part 5.As we close in on Cicero's final arguments on virtue, we will focus on the very different view of virtue held by Epicurus. Two passages that reveal this difference are:QuoteCicero, Tusculan Disputations 3.41—42 (Usener 67, 69)[Epicurus On The End] 'For my part I cannot conceive of anything as the good if I remove the pleasures perceived by means of taste and sex and listening to music, and the pleasant motions felt by the eyes through beautiful sights, or any other pleasures which some sensation generates in a man as a whole. Certainly it is impossible to say that mental delight is the only good. For a delighted mind, as I understand it, consists in the expectation of all the things I just mentioned - to be of a nature able to acquire them without pain... ' A little later he adds: 'I have often asked men who were called wise what they could retain as the content of goods if they removed those things, unless they wanted to pour out empty words. I could learn nothing from them; and if they want to babble on about virtues and wisdoms, they will be speaking of nothing except the way in which those pleasures I mentioned are produced.' (Long & Sedley - Hellenistic Philosophers)QuoteXII. The truth of the position that pleasure is the ultimate good will most readily appear from the following illustration. Let us imagine a man living in the continuous enjoyment of numerous and vivid pleasures alike of body and of mind, undisturbed either by the presence or by the prospect of pain: what possible state of existence could we describe as being more excellent or more desirable? One so situated must possess in the first place a strength of mind that is proof against all fear of death or of pain; he will know that death means complete unconsciousness, and that pain is generally light if long and short if strong, so that its intensity is compensated by brief duration and its continuance by diminishing severity. Let such a man moreover have no dread of any supernatural power; let him never suffer the pleasures of the past to fade away, but constantly renew their enjoyment in recollection, and his lot will be one which will not admit of further improvement.Suppose on the other hand a person crushed beneath the heaviest load of mental and of bodily anguish to which humanity is liable. Grant him no hope of ultimate relief in view also give him no pleasure either present or in prospect. Can one describe or imagine a more pitiable state? If then a life full of pain is the thing most to be avoided, it follows that to live in pain is the highest evil; and this position implies that a life of pleasure is the ultimate good. In fact the mind possesses nothing in itself upon which it can rest as final. Every fear, every sorrow can be traced back to pain; there is no other thing besides pain which is of its own nature capable of causing either anxiety or distress.Pleasure and pain moreover supply the motives of desire and of avoidance, and the springs of conduct generally. This being so, it clearly follows that actions are right and praiseworthy only as being a means to the attainment of a life of pleasure. But that which is not itself a means to anything else, but to which all else is a means, is what the Greeks term the Telos, the highest, ultimate or final Good. It must therefore be admitted that the Chief Good is to live agreeably.https://www.epicureanfriends.com/thread/4876-episode-314-td41-the-war-between-virtue-defined-1-absolutely-as-end-in-itself-vs/?postID=38314#post38314

In this special bonus episode of the Create! Podcast, Kat (Ekaterina Popova) sits down with artist and curator Victoria Fry, founder of The New Visionary Art Collective, for a grounded and nourishing conversation about creativity, intuition, and building a sustainable creative practice and career. Together, they explore the importance of making art for pleasure separate from career expectations, balancing multiple creative roles, and staying connected to intuition and inner joy. Kat also shares insights from her 100-Day Painting Challenge and reflects on how daily practice can transform both studio work and mindset. This episode is an invitation to slow down, reconnect with why you make art, and create from a place of trust rather than pressure. Topics Covered: • Making art for pleasure, not performance • Balancing creative business with studio practice • Letting go of perfectionism and expectations • Daily practice as devotion and self-trust • The role of intuition and the inner child in artmaking • Creating sustainable momentum as an artist Links & Resources: Create! Magazine https://createmagazine.co Paint With Kat https://paintwithkat.com 100-Day Painting Challenge https://www.paintwithkat.com/challenge Visionary Art Collective https://www.visionaryartcollective.com Connect with the Podcast: Subscribe to the Create! Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you listen. Leave a review to support the show and help more artists discover these conversations. About the Host: Ekaterina Popova is an artist, educator, and founder of Create! Magazine, an international platform supporting contemporary artists through publishing, education, and community.

What does it mean to be erotically alive—and how do we reclaim that connection after trauma, disconnection, or years of shutting down?In this intimate and illuminating conversation, I'm joined by trauma-informed somatic educator and Netflix's Sex, Love & goop expert Darshana Avila. Together, we unpack the deeper meaning of erotic aliveness, the body as a gateway to truth, and how our capacity for pleasure and power is often buried beneath layers of cultural conditioning and trauma.We explore the role of somatic safety in true intimacy, what it means to center the body over the mind in healing work, and how you can begin to feel more at home within yourself again.Darshana shares potent reflections from her own life, as well as embodied tools you can begin practicing now to move from shutdown to sensation, from dissociation to desire.This episode is a powerful reminder: your pleasure is not frivolous—it's foundational. And reclaiming it is a radical, healing act.Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/gHt7QKw8K1gConnect with Darshana:www.darshanaavila.comwww.instagram.com/darshana_avilawww.youtube.com/@darshana-avilawww.linkedin.com/in/darshana-avilaFREE GIFT: skool.com/galgasmGalgasm! is a free online community hub for women and AFAB folks ready to live, love and lead from their deepest pleasure and power. With a library full of resources and live-taught workshops and Q&A sessions with Darshana, it's a wonderful way to begin your journey to Erotic Wholeness.Connect with me:❥Softening into self- 3 month 1:1 with Whats App Support:https://marina-yt.mykajabi.com/offers/PAWQhZHu❥❥1:1 Coaching with me: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfWcZM5s9c2OjOLwoGMI5jE6rh_JAzjN2d_vCtuVe7e3pVGxw/viewform❥❥❥Stay or Go Course: ⁠https://marinayt.com/stay-or-go⁠ ❥❥❥❥ FREE RESOURCE: a step-by-step process of working with your triggersTRIGGERED TO ROOTED: A ROADMAP TO CREATE TREASURES FROM YOUR TRIGGERSThis powerful step by step process will walk you through how to somatically move through a trigger, ground yourself, allow the emotions to come up and experience massive growth in your lifeDownload here:⁠ ⁠https://marinayt.com/trigger-2-rooted⁠⁠Follow me on Instagram:⁠ ⁠www.instagram.com/marina.y.t⁠⁠ Subscribe to YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@marinatriner Top Episode Quotes:“You can't force the body to open. You can only invite it to feel safe.” “Erotic aliveness is your creative life force—not just sex, but your ability to feel, to create, to be present.” “The nervous system remembers everything. But it also knows how to heal.” “We've been taught to live from the neck up. Healing means coming home to the body.”“Pleasure is not a luxury. It's a compass pointing us toward aliveness.”somatic healing, trauma recovery, erotic embodiment, nervous system regulation, intimacy, sexual healing, darshana avila, netflix sex love and goop, pleasure and power, trauma-informed healing, body-based therapy, reclaiming desire, embodied relationships, somatics for intimacy

Click here to send me a quick message :) What is arousal and how is it related to your vagus nerve, past trauma or feeling unsafe, your stress levels, or even your body just being built differently?In today's medley episode we explore all of these concepts. In this liminal time out of time that is "holiday season" there is often an overstimulation happening, but also an invitation to slow down. I heard recently that this time of the year is when a large percentage of babies are conceived and I wonder how much that relates to this reflective inner quieting that allows the rest of life to sort of fall away and couples to feel more connected, and perhaps a little more in their pleasure bodies, than in other times of the year.Maybe we can get a little curious about what contributes to this? How does taking time off of work, rest and reflection, the invitation to celebrate and feel hopeful impact our nervous systems and our capacity for pleasure?Just some meandering questions for you to ponder with me if you'd like. But if you want to get a little nerdy with me - learn about the vagus nerve, the organ that is your cervix and what pleasure potential lies there, and som reflective perspectives from occupational therapist Laura Rowan on what might be getting in the way of or enhancing your pleasure, this episode is perfect for you.Resources:Free classsss Jan 13th! Sign up: What is your cycle telling you??Today's shownotes: Nervous system impact on arousal, orgasm + pleasureEpisode 64: How the vagus nerve impacts arousal & pelvic organsEpisode 87: From pain to pleasure w Laura RowanEpisode 98: Reclaim your cervix!If you loved this episode, share it with a friend, or take a screenshot and share on social media and tag me @herbalwombwisdomAnd if you love this podcast, leave a rating & write a review! It's really helpful to get the show to more amazing humans like you.  ❤️DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only, I am not providing any medical advice, I am not a medical practitioner, I'm an herbalist and in the US, there is no path to licensure for herbalists, so my role is as an herbal educator. Please do your own research and consult your healthcare provider for any personal concerns.Support the show

Are you planning 2026 completely wrong? CHRIS WILLIAMSON, Modern Wisdom host, breaks down goal setting errors, procrastination psychology, stress overload, dating mistakes and the ONE strategy that works! Chris Williamson is the host of the Modern Wisdom podcast and a leading voice on men's development, productivity and the challenges of modern life. He is also the creator of the 3 Minute Monday newsletter, where he shares weekly insights on discipline, focus and meaning.  He explains:  ◼️Why your goals keep failing you no matter how motivated you feel ◼️The SINGLE question that decides if 2026 is a breakout year ◼️The real reason PROCRASTINATION protects you from success ◼️Why doing less beats trying harder every time ◼️How stress and dating confusion hold men back 00:00 Intro 05:18 Choosing a Productive New Year's Resolution 12:11 The Real Thing You Should Be Doing 19:18 The Idea That "I Will Be Enough When..." 20:13 How to Find Success 23:22 The Hidden and Hurtful Metrics of Success 39:24 The Cost of Alcohol on Your Habits 42:07 If You're Not Okay, You Won't Choose Healthy Habits 46:38 The Biggest Learnings to Stay Consistent 48:42 Burnout, Imposter Syndrome, and Anxiety 53:24 The Two Main Reasons for Procrastination 01:00:56 America and the UK: Differences in Success Approaches 01:06:10 I Wish Britain Celebrated the Success of Its People 01:07:40 Ads 01:08:42 I Never Thought I'd Amounted to Much 01:18:19 How to Know What You Really Want in Life 01:33:54 Modeling What It Means to Be a Good Man 01:39:08 Ads 01:41:10 The Lonely Chapter in Everyone's Life 01:47:15 Problems Are a Feature of Life, Not a Bug 01:53:19 Psychological Stability in a Partner 01:55:48 The Dating World and Finding a Partner 01:58:40 The One Thing That Will Make You More Attractive 02:02:30 Why You Shouldn't Wait for Anything 02:12:22 The Hardest 12 Months of My Life 02:19:12 The Pleasure in Small Things Follow Chris: YouTube - https://bit.ly/4j1xhIh  Instagram - https://bit.ly/3XZ9QFS  X - https://bit.ly/3YDcCAJ Chris' episode with Naval Ravikant - https://open.spotify.com/episode/2KyMXeMQS0djxazcFJZaSb?si=hKzVb_ENTlWUCP1rRywYRA You can find out more about Chris' 2026 template, here: https://bit.ly/4552AvW  The Diary Of A CEO: ◼️Join DOAC circle here - https://doaccircle.com/  ◼️Buy The Diary Of A CEO book here - https://smarturl.it/DOACbook  ◼️The 1% Diary is back - limited time only: https://bit.ly/3YFbJbt  ◼️The Diary Of A CEO Conversation Cards (Second Edition): https://g2ul0.app.link/f31dsUttKKb  ◼️Get email updates - https://bit.ly/diary-of-a-ceo-yt  ◼️Follow Steven - https://g2ul0.app.link/gnGqL4IsKKb  Sponsors:  Pipedrive - https://pipedrive.com/CEO  Adobe Express - https://Adobe.Ly/OneBetter  Ketone - https://ketone.com/STEVEN for 30% off your subscription order

Opening: Joy evangelizes (and kids teach us)The “joyful demeanor” that opens doors to talking about Jesus (without getting weird).A godfather breakfast on a baptism anniversary becomes a living lesson in evangelization.“Five seconds” theology: most of our daily encounters are brief—so what do we do with them?The Thomistic pivot: Why life feels like a blurTime accelerates as you age; “someday” becomes a trap.Many men feel stuck for 10–15 years—spiritually, vocationally, relationally, and in work.The antidote isn't bigger ambition—it's better order.Aquinas on happiness: What won't satisfyAquinas method: name the end (happiness), then rule out false ends.Wealth: money is a means, not a final end.Honor / reputation: depends on others; happiness must be stable and interior.Power: instrumental, addictive, and easily disguised as “leadership.”Pleasure: real and good, but cannot be the end—pleasure perfects an act, it doesn't define the goal.The positive claim: What happiness actually isPerfect happiness is the vision of God (beatific vision).We can't fully attain it in this life, but we can live an imperfect happiness by ordering our lives toward it.Key shift: beatitude, not optimization.Hierarchy of goods (practical framework for 2026)Three filters for any resolution:Is it ordered toward the highest good? (God, truth, contemplation)Does it support your vocation? (husband/father, priest, etc.)Does it treat lesser goods as means? (money, status, comfort serve the mission)Concrete resolutions (small, durable, lifelong)“Not huge shifts—small profitable habits that stick.”Guarding silence and adding a few more minutes of contemplative prayer.A reminder: you can “succeed” without prayer, but not in the way a Christian wants to succeed.The closing medicine: Gratitude slows timeGratitude grounds you in the present and breaks the “always next” mindset.

For this week's main podcast review, Katie Johnson, Dan Bayer, and Giovanni Lago join me to discuss the latest film from Josh Safdie, "Marty Supreme" starring Timothée Chalamet, Gwyneth Paltrow, Odessa A'zion, Kevin O'Leary, Tyler Okonma, Abel Ferrara & Fran Drescher. His first solo directing effort since his debut with "The Pleasure of Being Robbed," Josh Safdie delivers a true American sports comedy-drama loosely inspired by the life and career of American table tennis player Marty Reisman. The film had its world premiere as a surprise screening at the New York Film Festival to rave reviews and reactions for its performances, direction, writing, casting, editing, and score, with many hailing it as one of the greatest sports and New York films ever made. What did we think of it? Please tune in as we discuss these elements, its awards season chances, and more in our SPOILER-FILLED review. Thank you for listening, and enjoy! Check out more on NextBestPicture.com Please subscribe on... Apple Podcasts - https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/negs-best-film-podcast/id1087678387?mt=2 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/7IMIzpYehTqeUa1d9EC4jT YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWA7KiotcWmHiYYy6wJqwOw And be sure to help support us on Patreon for as little as $1 a month at https://www.patreon.com/NextBestPicture and listen to this podcast ad-free Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Before the New Year even begins, we might find ourselves with the same list of resolutions. What if, next year, instead of merely surviving the year in pursuit of self-fulfillment, we start 2026 by living differently for God's glory?Speaker: Ptr. JP MasakayanSeries: A Different Way To LiveScripture Reading: 1 Peter 4:1-11Watch the full message here: https://go.ccf.org.ph/12282025Eng

Join Dewey and I as we do our annual catch up on with one another podcast chat.We talk about where we are at with our respective shows and the ebbs and flows of doing something weekly for almost 10 years, and kinda taking a step back from it for a bit. We reflect on the loss of Dave Shapiro and discuss the MASSIVE reach Dave had on not only our lives personally but so many of the bands and artists we love, and how his legacy will be one that will probably never be seen/felt again. Dewey shares how he's gotten into a new creative endevour in screen printing. We talk about the far reaching community that has provided him, and the various spaces within from bootlegs and vintage to me working in a bigger shop that makes merch for touring artists and retail alike. All this and more as I catch up with the renaissance man himself.Music:Hard Lines by Tom Denney Show Sponsor:Rockabilia (⁠www.rockabilia.com⁠) USE OUR CODE BREWTALLY AND GET 10% OFF YOUR TOTAL ORDER!!Links:Facebook:www.facebook.com/peerppodwww.facebook.com/rockabiliacomwww.facebook.com/brewspeakpodInstagram:@peerpleasurepod, @lightthriller , @rockabiliacom, @brewspeakpod, @jbeatty616 Twitter:@podpeerpleasure, @rockabilia, @brewspeakpod, @jbeatty616Website: peerpleasurepodcast.comwww.lightthriller.netEmail:Brewtallyspeaking@gmail.comRATE/REVIEW/SUBSCRIBE!!!

Today, we're dissecting a fundamental aspect of how societies are shaped and influenced: the interconnected concepts of pleasure, power, and propaganda. These aren't just academic terms; they represent a powerful, often subtle, framework for understanding control and influence in our world.Let's start with pleasure. It's more than just simple gratification; it encompasses joy, well-being, and even belonging. While deeply personal, pleasure can also be a potent social and political instrument. Consider "pleasure activism," where seeking joy becomes an act of resistance. Conversely, think about how the relentless pursuit of consumption and entertainment can serve to distract us, making us less engaged citizens and inadvertently maintaining existing power structures.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/lets-talk-sex--5052038/support.

What if the real crisis in midlife isn't aging, but disconnecting from the parts of yourself that make life worth living?In this electrifying conversation, Pleasure Coach and founder of The Feminine Rebellion, Natty Frasca, reveals why so many high-achieving women feel numb, overwhelmed, or unseen… even when life “looks successful” on the outside.We dive into the neuroscience of pleasure, the myths that keep women small, and the truth about why midlife is actually the perfect moment to reclaim your identity, your joy, and your unapologetic confidence.If you're tired of holding everything together…If you've checked every box and still feel something is missing…If you're ready to show up bigger, louder, freer…This is your episode. You'll hear:® What pleasure truly means (beyond sex) and why women lose access to it® Why so many successful women feel numb or disconnected® How to close the “pleasure gap” in everyday life® Why aging is not decline, but a superpower® How to walk into any room with presence, not performance New podcast episodes drop every Monday to power your week. Be the first to catch inspiring interviews, empowering stories, and thought-provoking conversations.

AUNTIE ANNA & ALHAJI PA SERIES. " Sexual Freedom in a Marriage. Halal Pleasure What Islam Really Says About Marital Sex"

If you've grown weary of traditional resolutions, but you still carry a glimmer of hope that positive change is possible for us imperfect humans—then you'll love mindful intention-setting.  In this practice from his mini-course, mindful leadership trainer Rich Fernandez shows us how to vividly envision the "imagine if" possibilities. When we tap into meaning, passion, and a felt sense of welcoming what we long for, it's easier to get clear on the purpose behind our pursuits.  Rich Fernandez is the former CEO of Search Inside Yourself Leadership Institute (SIYLI). He was previously the director of executive education and people development at Google, where he was also one of the first SIY teachers. Rich previously co-founded Wisdom Labs and has also served in senior roles at eBay, J.P. Morgan Chase and Bank of America. The transcription of this guided meditation will be online at Mindful.org next week.  Stay curious, stay inspired. Join our community by signing up for our free newsletter:  mindful.org/signup Show Notes Find more from Rich Fernandez here. Go Deeper There are subtle but crucial differences between making traditional New Year's resolutions and setting intentions for the future—because in mindfulness, everything is anchored in self-acceptance and self-love, rather than a quest for endless self-improvement. To learn more and start practicing a gentler, more sustainable way to change and growth, check out these articles on Mindful.org: Why Do Resolutions Fail? 5 Ways to Invite Positive and Lasting Change  Three Ways to Refresh and Renew—No Resolutions Needed  3 Science-Backed Strategies to Build Healthy Habits in the New Year  The Power of Sustainable Self-Care  The Power and Pleasure of Intention: How to Turn Your Dreams into Daily Reality  You can access all modules of Rich's mini-course on Mindful.org here. And to experience another approach to intention-setting, try A Guided Meditation to Set Your Intentions for the New Year  And more from Mindful here: More episodes of 12 Minute Meditation Let us know what you thought of this episode of 12 Minute Meditation by leaving a review or by emailing yourwords@mindful.org.  

Reviewing an interesting interview from Shawn Ryan

Welcome back to the No Labels, No Limits Podcast!In this encore episode, we're joined by Allyson Chavez—prosperity and success coach for ambitious, God-centered women, bestselling author of The Prosperity Approach, and sought-after speaker featured on CBS, NBC, ABC, FOX, and more.Allyson's message is powerful and countercultural:Challenge is necessary. Struggle is not.Everything is happening for you, not to you—even the moments that feel impossible.She teaches women how to:Achieve phenomenal results with easeBend time & spaceCreate success without grind or hustleLead and live from powerful feminine energyReshape their reality using universal lawsBuild prosperity without guilt, fear, or burnoutIn this conversation, Allyson breaks down the mindset shifts, spiritual principles, and energetic strategies women need to create abundance, peace, and joy in both business and life.In This Episode, You'll Learn:• What it means to be “ambitious and God-centered” in businessWho Allyson serves and why this calling matters today more than ever.• How to lead with Feminine EnergyWhy most women unknowingly lead from masculine modes—and how to shift into ease, flow, and intuition.• The truth about how money worksAnd why guilt, fear, and anxiety sabotage success.• Using universal laws in practical, real-life waysSimple, aligned steps to create momentum without burnout.• The role of fear & anxiety in women's leadershipHow to release old survival patterns and step into grounded power.• Pleasure as a success toolWhat it really means—and how it elevates feminine leaders.• Letting go of fear around spending and receiving moneyThe mindset reframe that opens the door to prosperity.(Note: As this is an encore episode, promotions mentioned in the original recording may no longer be active.)Connect with Allyson ChavezWebsite: https://allysonchavez.com/Podcast: The Prosperity Approach → http://prosperityapproach.com/listenInstagram (DM her!): https://www.instagram.com/allysonchavez_/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allyson.a.chavez/FB Group: Success Without Struggle → https://www.facebook.com/groups/609772773604792LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allysonchavez15Connect with Sarah Boxx:Website: https://sarahboxx.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strategicvisioncoach/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahboxxsherpa/Check out our sister show, the Nonprofit Podcast, where we dive into strategies for nonprofit leaders and change agents driving real community impact. Tune in wherever you get your podcasts!⁨@NonprofitsToday⁩ https://shows.acast.com/nonprofits-today Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The NFL regular season is nearing its end, and there are plenty of must-watch games in Week 17. However, there are plenty of duds on the schedule as well. How do you decipher those can't miss games from those which you only keep tabs on your fantasy football team for? That's where the For Your Viewing Pleasure podcast comes in where hosts Jeff Hartman and Wesley Coleman talk about the slate of games in Week 17, and what you should, and shouldn't, be watching. This podcast is a part of the Pro Football Insiders. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Quaranteam - Dave In Dallas: Part 4 Shenanigans: Fun times at House Belsus. Based on a post by RonanJWilkerson, in 12 parts. Listen to the Podcast at Explicit Novels. Let's review the list of characters: David Belsus – 46, physics & astronomy professor at Eastfield college, a community college in the Dallas area. Prepper, survivalist, has a greenhouse in his backyard and lives in an outer ring suburb. Six foot, fit, short cropped hair. Lupie Ramos – 32, former financial advisor, Dave's neighbor, got caught out of state when the lockdowns started. She spent two frantic weeks trying to get back to her daughter. Lupie has been in love with Dave for over a year. Long, dark brown hair, medium build, and a lovely smile. Esme – 9, daughter of Lupie, prone to the occasional snarky comment. Adores Dave. Becca; 18, Lupie's babysitter, was watching Esme when lockdowns occurred. Her refusal to abandon Esme, as her mother insisted, likely saved Becca's life, since her extended family ignored precautions and died of Duo. Esme, Lupie, and Dave are all Becca has left in the world. Short, medium build, small tits, with short blond hair and a smile that is shy with strangers and beams with family and friends. Janice Wheeler; 33, Dave's first partner to arrive, a librarian at Cedar Valley, another community college member of DCCCD. Slender build and medium height, Janice is 3/4 Korean, her paternal grandfather is Anglo. Medium length black hair often pulled back in a bun for work or ponytail at home. Shawna Cooper; 36, senior meteorologist at WFAA, Master's degree in meteorology from O U, worked at NSSL and spent time as a storm chaser. Whole hog sci-fi nut, beginning with Start Trek TNG. 5' 10", large tits, medium brown skin, dark brown eyes, shoulder length black hair styled like a frizzy weeping willow. Olivia Tyler (Liv); 21, senior studying horticulture at Tarleton State University, near Dallas. Daughter of Carter and Janelle, Dave's best friends since college. Had a well-known crush on Dave throughout her teen years. Since her dad was former SF and a survivalist, Liv is skilled with several firearms as well as bladed weapons. Never failed to take a deer any season she's hunted. 5'10" long, dark brown hair, large tits, lightly tanned, brown eyes, and a wide smile. Melanie Ustanich; 22, graduate student in IT at Tarleton, Liv's roommate, recently found a passion for cooking. Spent most of her life in foster homes, Liv's parents accepted her like family the first time she went with Liv on Thanksgiving Break. 5'8" medium length auburn hair, green eyes, small mouth with a ready, mischievous smile. During the interlude, Dave took some time to look over Melanie. He knew less about her than the others, but more than he'd known about Jan or Shawna when they'd shown up on his doorstep. He knew from a glance that she dressed more stylishly than Olivia, though he'd be hard pressed to describe why. He thought both looked great, even if he could tell a difference instinctively. He was always a fan of variety. Silver studs in her ears support three short silver chains each, drawing the eye tantalizingly into the chasm of her russet mane. The verdant green of Mel's satiny top provided the perfect counterpoint to the auburn tones of her hair. The cinched belt securing the crossing panels of her blouse held it together well, yet giving tantalizing views of her medium sized tits. The black slacks clung closely to her well-shaped thighs and calves without the 'painted on' look. "Dave, could you make me one of your 'ginger ales' please?" "Sure, Liv. Anyone else want something?" "Can you make me one of those drinks you made that first time?" Becca asked. "Yeah, that's what Livy is asking for. Seven-Up and Captain Morgan mixed to look like ginger ale." "Oh, okay, then one of those please." "You got it." Dave got to mixing drinks. Jan asked if anyone else wanted wine. All the others voiced their interest, Jan pulled two bottles of blush from the pantry and brought them to the living room. Lupie grabbed wine glasses for each of them and handed them out as Jan poured. Dave watched Becca's first sip carefully. He'd mixed this one normal strength, not the light pour he'd given her last time. Eyes flared, she took a smaller sip than usual, but nodded before setting it on the side table. "Olivia, dear," Lupie asked softly, "I hesitate to ask, but can you tell us about your parents? Should we contact them that you are here, or, are they; ?" "Dad died six weeks ago. Mom passed a week later." Olivia took another sip. Melanie hugged her loosely. Olivia's voice took on a husky note. "She called me, near the end. She told me Dad had died. That she was very ill and wasn't; wasn't, ah,; She knew she wouldn't make it." One hot tear dallied along the top curve of her cheek before coursing downward. Dave took her hand. "She said I should pursue my dreams. All of them." Livy looked Dave dead in the eyes. "She said she'd known for a long time it was more than a crush, that she was sorry she'd belittled it by calling it that. And then ;” Olivia sucked in a breath. Mel hugged Olivia again. "We're all here for you. Let it out at your own pace." Lupie encouraged softly. "She said 'Love him. Love him like I never did. Love him like he deserves.' And then she closed the call." A hard sob shook through Olivia as more tears fell. Dave and Mel hugged her, one from each side. Dave did so while looking at the ceiling with a distant gaze. After several minutes of silence, Jan got up for a second plate. Dave stood to join her. "My mind still doesn't want to eat, but my stomach got a taste of that bruschetta and wants more. Of that, and everything else." Jan smiled and gave him a quick kiss, which he returned. "Can you tell us something about Eddie?" Shawna asked after Dave sat back down. Dave thought for a minute. Slowly, a proud smile spread across his face. "His Eagle project." Olivia smiled and nodded. "Eddie was an Eagle Scout?" Jan asked. "Yes, he was. Got his Arrow of Light as a Webelo too." Livy provided. "Eddie and I were just beginning to reconnect when he began working on his Eagle rank. For his project, he decided to build a foot bridge across the stream in the park." "Armadillo park? The bridge on the south end?" Becca asked. Dave smiled broadly. "That's the one. Before that bridge, anyone walking the path and crossing the bridge at the north end would have to turn around when they hit the ends of the u-shaped path. For some folks, that was more walking than they could handle, so they wound up getting less exercise, or taking their walks in the few areas with sidewalks or walk along the side of the road. Either way they got very little 'green time'. He found a bridge design appropriate for the location, one that would last with little maintenance and convinced a local construction company to donate materials. He met with the city manager and then spoke before the city council to arrange an agreement for maintenance." "The foreman of the construction company and his best concrete specialist offered their services to supervise the volunteer workers and ensure the quality of the work. I think Eddie had a hand in that." Dave's pride in his son couldn't have been any louder on his face. "The kicker was, he vetted the design to make sure the angle of the curve was suitable for someone in a wheelchair. So at the ribbon cutting, the young lady that cut the ribbon, and the first to cross was in Eddie's class. I think she wound up the class Salutatorian. Anyway, she was paraplegic, lost the use of her legs in an accident during her eighth grade year." Dave paused. "I think she and Eddie started dating not long after." Olivia snorted. "They were already dating. I think that night was the first time she gave him the goods though." "Go Eddie." Shawna said huskily. "Seriously?" Dave asked Olivia. "Pretty sure. Not 100%. I mean, I know they did it. Like a lot. Once they opened up that part of the relationship they were like bunnies. I'm not absolutely sure that night was the first night though." "Hell, I was nineteen before my first time. He was always better with people than I ever was." Dave's looked wistfully into the distance, like he was seeing through the walls at something beyond. Then he swallowed hard. He took a steadying breath and blew it out slowly. Becca rubbed his shoulder lightly before giving it a soft kiss. Dave smiled at her, then leaned in to deliver a light peck on her cheek. He looked outward again, scanning across the room. "Thank you all for putting up with this. I'm sorry for acting like such a p--" Becca pressed a finger firmly to Dave's lips. "If that word crosses your lips, you'd better be talking about our body parts. The man that I've watched, relied on, and come to trust implicitly sure as hell isn't one of those. And he deserves better than that." The fire in her red-rimmed eyes put the punctuation to her statement. Dave just nodded in concession to his young lover's demand. With an impish grin she added, "And for the record, anytime we're getting frisky, or flirting, I'm perfectly happy with you calling it: or me: a pussy." She grabbed his hand and shoved it between her shorts-clad legs for emphasis. Becca's addendum broke the somber mood of the room. Everyone got a good laugh. A brief quiet descended as everyone ate a few bites or stared into their drink. Dave looked up to see Jan and Lupie gazing at him, concern and sympathy clearly written across both of their faces. "Well, Becca, since you have some history with our man, tell me something to catch me up with all of you." Shawna requested. "Oh, tell her about the cupcake exchange." Jan suggested. "Dave told me about it while the two of you were getting vaxxed." "Oh that one she told me already. Good story." "Okay, so something new." Becca paused, then blushed. She bit her lip and looked sideways at Dave and cringed. Then she flicked her eyes to Lupie. Lupie caught the look and rolled her eyes. "Go ahead." She said with a sigh. Then she turned her face away. "So, um, you know how Dave runs a couple times a week, and works out with his staff in the backyard about as often?" Shawna nodded at Becca's narrative, then turned to give Dave an appreciative leer. "Ahem, well, it's cooler now, so he does he work outs in a t-shirt and shorts." Shawna nodded again, then stared at Dave's torso like she was imaging him bare chested and sweating. Well, she'd seen him shirtless often enough. Melanie's breathing became slightly deeper and slower as she sized him up as well. "Well, remember we used to live next door. And Lupie's second story windows are high enough to see over Dave's fence." Mel, Shawna, and Jan all looked at each other. "Oh." They said in unison. "You lucky bitches." Jan added. Dave's mind was working at a slower pace and caught up a moment later. He closed his eyes and shook his head. With a small grin. "Well, that's not all of it. See, I made no pretense about watching him work out. I mean, mid-August, heat pounding down? Ten minutes into his work out his whole torso is covered in sweat, with rivulets running down his front and back." Shawna looked transfixed. Jan had her eyes closed. Mel tightly gripped her thighs, staring intently. "Usually I watched from one of the back windows, and just put up with the oblique angle. One day, a few months back, I realize it's very quiet in the house, and I seem to be the only one on the second floor. I decided to move over to Lupie's room, which is at the back corner, with two windows looking out over the backyard, one on each side of the corner." Lupie blushed hard and brought her hands up to cover her face. "So, there was a small space between the curtain panels and I was staring at Dave through the gap as I walked up. I walked as quietly as I could so Lupie and Esme wouldn't hear my footsteps from downstairs. I pulled back the curtain to get a better view. Lupie was hiding in the curtains, eyes fixed on Dave. We both screamed, and Lupie's hand flapped backwards hitting the window frame." "That's how you bruised your hand?!" Dave exclaimed, trying to suppress his laughter. "You flap your hands around when you're surprised?" "No. Just, um, I, uh ;” Lupie's muffled response trailed off. "She took care to wash her hands thoroughly before she let me bind it." Becca interjected. "Initially we thought she'd hurt her wrist, so I stabilized it. But, I recognized later what I had smelled while we were leaving the room." Lupie peeked between her fingers at Becca, pleading. "Okay, never mind." Becca conceded. "I've said too much already." The others looked confused at the abrupt ending until Melanie burst out laughing. When they looked at her questioningly, she said, "I know what I would be doing standing there watching him work out shirtless." And flopped back into the couch giggling furiously. The others started cackling and Jan, chortling, reached over to pull Lupie into her for a hug. "Not like we all don't do it." Dave sat there open mouthed, shocked, and feeling like he'd won something undefinable. He moved to kneel in front of Lupie. He took her hands in his own, pulling them away from her face. He pulled her into a hug. Into her ear he whispered, "I love you." Her hug on him tightened. "And if I hadn't been so dense I would have been in that room to take care of you properly. Or at least, lick your fingers clean." He punctuated his comment with a light nibble of her earlobe. Lupie swatted him on the back as she released him. Her face was still flushed to the tips of her ears. The tight, prim smile and her laughing eyes testified to her approval of the idea, and her mortification it was said out loud. Even at a whisper. Dave got up and refreshed his drink, and Olivia's as well. Becca sipped hers more slowly, and still had more than half a glass. Jan topped off her wine glass, along with Mel's and Shawna's. Lupie got up and made a fresh plate, then headed for the stairs. "I'm going to take a plate to Esme, just in case she didn't get enough earlier. Besides, if I tell her Dave likes the bruschetta, she might try it." Lupie said with a knowing mom smile. Shawna came to Dave once he was seated. She gave him a soft kiss and held him to her. She spoke no words, but conveyed clearly her heart ache for him, and her availability should he need something. When Lupie returned, she took her seat and looked to Olivia asking "Can you tell me something about your father?" Livy squirmed for a moment, then nodded. She took a breath. "He was a security consultant. Worked for a firm that advised companies on the weak points in their physical and cybersecurity. Dad was on the physical side. He'd been a Green Beret before going to college, where he met Mom and Dave." "Oh, wow. So your dad was a badass?" Becca asked. "Carter was so badass he was chill," Dave interjected. "He had that confidence of the guy that knows he'll win if things get physical. Smart too, though." "Yeah, Dad made supervisor pretty fast. He and his team would walk the grounds of a company and show them where a person could slip in or out without detection. Then the cyber guys would do the same for the company's networks. Sometimes, Dad would have to prove the point. He loved that. He and a couple of his team would don tactical gear and break in. Dad always left a fake tarantula with the company logo on its back on the boss' desk, or somewhere critical." Olivia chuckled. "One time, this one CEO was particularly resistant. Dad had to go in a second time. The first time he left a tarantula on the main server station, and one in the research lab; that by law was required to be restricted access. To drive his point home, Dad went to the CEO's office and installed this box on the ceiling, where most don't look. It had some kind of trigger because once the guy sat down, this tarantula drops on a thread from the box, right on the guy's paperwork." Several smiles broke out. Dave laughed soundlessly, his mouth closed so it didn't become a cry. The tears in his eyes were tattle-tale enough. He absently played with Olivia's dark locks. Olivia turned to look at him, eyes soft and happy. She leaned against his hand. Dave realized what he was doing, got self-conscious and pulled back. With downcast eyes, Liv turned back to the room and took in the other faces. A couple of looks exchanged suggested that most had caught what had just passed. Dave tried to process what just happened by staring off through a blank spot on the wall. It wasn't terribly helpful, once he recalled the picture that hung there just a few weeks before. Then Lupie cleared her throat. Dave fixed his eyes on her. He was never particularly perceptive of the looks on people's faces, but this time it seemed pretty clear. She stared at him with a stern look, then shifted her eyes to Liv and back to him. He looked to Jan, who just nodded. "Maybe someone else can share a family background story." Dave temporized. A few pensive looks passed. A tight smile grew on Jan's face. "My aunt Carolyn." She paused for a second. "My dad's sister. They were half-Korean, half European. Aunt Carolyn took more after the European side of the heritage, especially in the kitchen. She made an awesome meatloaf." She chuckled and looked over at Dave and Becca. "She would have loved that meatloaf cupcake." Her eyes watered at the bottom edge. "Visiting her was a way to encounter the white half of my ancestry. She had prints from famous artists. Classic books. If I was there on a Saturday night, she'd serve cheese and crackers, sometimes with a little sausage. As I got older, she'd let me have a small glass of wine as well." Jan took a light breath. "She played some classical music, but mostly it was Michael Bolton and Kenny G. Maybe some Cranberries and Matchbox Twenty when she felt wild. I haven't heard from her in over a month. And she has asthma." Jan trailed off into silence and the room observed it with her. Lupie reached out a hand to Jan's shoulder. She in turn, put her own hand on top of Lupie's. She turned her head and smiled. With a small nod, she turned away again, staring at the floor. Both hands dropped away. After a reasonable silence, Becca spoke. "When I was thirteen, my cousin Kimberly, who was sixteen, offered to pierce my ears for me." Half the women groaned. Dave sat silently, suspecting this wouldn't end well. "She got a large sewing needle, a bottle of rum, a small bowl, and a pair of my mom's stud earrings." "Rum?" Jan asked. Becca rolled her eyes. "Yeah," she said with a sigh, "she said she had to soak the needle in alcohol before using it." A variety of gasps, groans and sighs walked around the room. Dave's sympathetic grimace did less than his hand patting her knee to communicate his support. "Oh, but it gets worse. Wrong kind of alcohol at too low concentration, plus lots of sugar are only enablers. She cleaned my earlobes thoroughly with antimicrobial soap, so maybe that was the one thing she did almost right. But she didn't clean her own hands. And when she stuck the needle through; which hurt like hell; she stabbed her finger." Multiple hands struck foreheads or mouths. "Oh yeah. So we're both bleeding like stuck pigs, and crying. She's freaking out because 'the blood is mixing'. I never figured out what that meant. We bandage each other up the best we could, hide all the stuff from our parents and then hide ourselves. Three days later I have a raging infection in one earlobe and have to go to the doctor AND admit to my mom what happened." Becca paused, shaking her head. "Chewed my ass out. The doctor said because of the infection, I had to wait at least six months to get piercings. Mom added another six as punishment. She did take me to get professional piercings one year to the day after the doctor's visit though." Becca's eyes watered. Dave leaned over and kissed her cheek as a single tear slid down her face. Dave noticed Melanie getting increasingly fidgety. He thought he first noticed something during Becca's tale about his workouts. Maybe when the stories ran out, he'd have his head right. It wasn't fair to her to make her wait too long for imprinting. Or Liv. God, he really needed to get his head around this. He loved Olivia, he truly did. He was just so used to it being a non-sexual, non-romantic relationship. He'd looked on her as nearly a daughter for, well, for her whole life. But she wasn't his daughter. And she loved him. That was so clear in her eyes, every time she looked at him. Not just today, but thinking back over the years. It's crazy to think he could hurt this person he cared so deeply for, by not having sex with her. Fuck, it was Kim Dawson all over again. Shawna sat placidly, attentive as others told their stories. As the room lay silent again for a time, she took her turn. "I once caught my brother coming out of the shower with his girlfriend." Grins and giggles passed around the room. "Mind you, this is after my mother had chewed me out for getting frisky with, um, my best friend in my room." "Oh" several said in unison. "We were experimenting," she said, shrugging her shoulders. "It was my first Thanksgiving Break home from college. We were just friends, with nothing going on physical, since sixth grade. We were both single at the time, but we'd each had boyfriends, and each had sex before. We just thought we'd try out the other flavor. Who better to try that with than your ride or die?" She grinned. "Mom walked in when we had our shirts loose and hands inside each other's bras. Mom got all pissy about it and made some comment along the lines of 'Darian would never disrespect me by having sex under my roof.' Yeah sure Mom." Shawna rolled her eyes. "The bathroom smelled of" she looked straight at Becca, "pussy, so they'd been going at it in there. Mom wasn't home, so the obvious sounds of continuing humping came from his room almost immediately." "Hell of it is, she was this tiny little thing. Barely five foot tall and a nothing waist. And since I'd seen Darian stumbling around out of the bathroom when we both had midnight potty urges, well, he wasn't great at covering up when he's drowsy, and in his case, the stereotype is true. I don't know how he'd didn't break her in half." "After she left, I confronted him with Mom's comment. Now Darian ain't scared of shit; not a machismo thing, he uses his brain; but Momma. She's a foot shorter and at least a hundred pounds less muscle but that boy will cringe and genuflect if Momma is mad. He starts bargaining with me. Of course, he can't offer money since he's just getting his feet under him. He had plans, and he did eventually move out, but he was scrimping and saving so paying me money to shut up would have crippled him." We all hung there, waiting. "Well, Darian had been incredibly protective of me growing up. He over did it, by a lot. So my price for silence was for him to set me up with a friend of his that I had always wanted to date, but Darian kept getting in the way." She paused for a minute. "You know how you really want something, and imagine what it would be like to get it? And then you do, and ugh. Darian meant to protect me against a guy getting handsy. In this case he was protecting me from getting bored. The guy was about as much fun as a wet paper towel. I gave him a handshake at my door when he dropped me off." All the ladies shook their heads in commiseration. Dave closed his eyes and kept his mouth shut. Becca however, didn't. "Dave, how many of your dates ended in handshakes?" "None, from now on," he said flatly. "You got that right." Shawna said. Jan just shrugged and nodded. Becca and Liv hugged him tightly. Mel rubbed a hand against his back. Lupie sat still with an enigmatic grin. Dave knew there were thoughts churning behind those dark chocolate eyes. While he wondered what those thoughts were, he had a thought of his own. Maybe it was what she was thinking, maybe not. Here he was, sleeping with four women, two more about to be added to their ranks, and he hadn't taken a single one of them on so much as one date. That couldn't stand. Granted, movies and restaurant dinners were out. But they had two backyards to have a picnic meal in. The parks were open too. Maybe the Botanical gardens? He'd need to talk with each one, find out what they wanted, and find a way to make it happen. "Well Becca already told a story for me," Lupie said, breaking the silence. Becca blushed and chuckled. "So Melanie, what can you share with the family?" "I was orphaned so early, I don't really remember my parents. Just a few fuzzy images. I bounced from one foster home to another. One time I got to stay in the same place for two years. Usually it was more like eight to ten months. The social workers tried to at least let me stay in one school for a full year. Some of them anyway." "I don't have any horror stories about it. Other kids I fostered with told me about other homes they've been in, and some of those were bad. So I don't want to suggest it doesn't happen, it just never happened to me. The worst for me was not being connected to anyone for long. Honestly, living with Olivia is the longest I've shared a place with anyone. And she brought me home on holidays." Her face darkened. "Carter and Janelle were nice to me." Then she laughed. "I think Carter suspected I was Liv's lesbian lover though." "Oh my god." Liv rolled her eyes and brought a hand to her forehead, covering her eyes. Only Dave noticed Jan wincing at the hated phrase. Then Mel's face went blank, trying to hold back the intense emotions. "You're the closest I've ever had to a sister." The two college girls hugged. After a brief pause, Dave chimed in. "Now that is a tough life, having Olivia as your sister." Melanie laughed. Olivia turned and punched him in the shoulder, with a tight smile on her face. Laughing and rolling with the punch, Dave couldn't help but notice the way her large tits jiggled with the turn and the force of her punch. When she leaned against him, he found himself wishing her neckline was cut lower. The thought was surprising, and conducive to future events, but still slightly disconcerting. Before he could get too lost in his head, Jan spoke up. "So, how about a story about young Olivia?" she asked. Liv groaned. Dave grinned. "Okay, so we've mentioned before she hunts, hikes, does all kinds of outdoors She-Ra stuff." Liv glared up at him. She adjusted her head so the backs of her round silver stud earrings wouldn't poke her head. Mel rubbed Liv's back reassuringly. "You may have noticed that fishing was not mentioned in that list." "Oh God, no." Liv covered her face with her hands. The grins on every face in the room showed realization dawning in each of the other minds present. "So, Carter and I took Eddie and Liv fishing. Carter preferred drift catfishing, so we'd get out on the lake very early, usually by three am, four if we were running late. We had a small casting net we'd use in the shallows to catch bait fish. Then Carter would take the boat to a point up current from where he suspected the cats would be, and we'd drift across with our hooks in the water. Well, the bait fish had to be cut into two or three pieces to be useful. Olivia objected. But not to cutting the fish. To holding them. She squealed every time we put one in her hands. She loved casting the net and hauling it in. she liked fighting the fish on the rod, put touch one with her hands? Oh, no, not happening." Olivia buried her head in his chest and glared upward. "Oh, did I mention her fishing rod and tackle box were Barbie themed?" A series of giggles followed that assertion. "Don't talk about that!" "But you were cute!" "Shit like that is why you keep seeing me as a little girl for you to protect and raise instead of a woman you could sleep with." Olivia humphed. "Beginning to think the only way to change your mind is to sit here topless. I wait like that long enough and your cock might start taking charge." She accented her words by puffing out her generous chest and turning partially towards Dave. "You go girl," Shawna laughed. "How about some big titty solidarity?" She unbuttoned two buttons on her blouse. Jan joined in the laughter while Lupie shook her head, smiling. Becca stared a chant of 'Do it!' quickly joined by Mel. They both shook their chests in time with the chant. "No." Dave said, staring at Liv with no hint of a smile. He swatted Becca on the knee. "Hmm, what do I need to do to get a spanking Daddy?" Melanie purred. "Do not start that shit." Dave tried to be stern this time but didn't quite manage it. "Speaking of getting something started, I'm getting kinda itchy here. I don't know if either of you are in the mood yet, but this serum is starting to eat at me." Liv and Mel exchanged looks. "I don't want to jump the line on banging your dream guy, but please girl, let's get this started. If you don't go, I will." "Sexier words were never spoken," Dave noted dryly. That got Liv laughing. Dave stood. "Do you two want to do this one at a time, or side-by-side?" "One at a time," Mel stated emphatically. "After walking in on you masturbating once, I don't need to see that pussy again." Liv groaned and turned her head to the ceiling. Then Mel turned to Lupie "hashtag justiceforLupie." She grinned. Lupie just rolled her eyes while Becca laughed. Jan laughed, but reached out a hand to Lupie's shoulder. Dave took Olivia's hand and turned to the stairs. She interlocked her fingers with his and walked beside him with her head against his shoulder. They stayed like that until they reached the bed. Dave turned to face Olivia, placing his hands on her shoulders. She looked into his eyes, hungry, pleading. Dave took a deep, shuddering breath and pushed aside the thoughts of the little girl that kissed him on the check at bedtime as he tucked her into bed. He stared into Olivia's eyes, focusing on the woman in front of him, as she is now, wanting to be with him. She loved him. had for a long time. She had been dedicated to the idea of being with him for life, for longer than, well, any woman in his past or present. The reality of that finally washed over him. His love for her did not need to end or change, merely grow. He had always been hers. Dave pulled Olivia into him and kissed her with passion. Olivia moaned into the kiss. Dave felt her hot tears as their cheeks brushed. He pulled back, their faces parted but close. "I love you Olivia Barnes, always and forever." A heart-rending sob burst from her as her dearest dream manifested. She jumped into his arms, wrapping her legs around his waist, and kissing him fiercely, their tongues dancing. Dave slowly walked them to the edge of the bed and sat her down. Mostly. Olivia was not letting go. Dave tugged at the bottom of her blouse and lifted. Olivia broke the kiss and raised her arms, her legs still clutching him tightly. Dave paused removing her shirt when her lips were exposed, but her eyes still covered. He moved in for a kiss. He felt her grin as their lips moved in unison. Olivia then grabbed Dave's shirt as he finished removing hers. Dave moved to her jeans and quickly removed those as She reached for his waist band. Olivia grasped his pants and boxers as one and removed them. Dave, standing, naked and half-erect. Olivia, seated on the edge of the bed, in a lacy white bra and matching panties. They drank each other in. She looked up at him. "Well, part of you is getting interested," she smirked. "You get all of me, Olivia, just as you always have. I'll show you my love every day. It will just manifest in a few new ways from now on." Olivia scooted up the bed as Dave crawled up, aligning himself over her, kissing as they moved. Dave's hands wandered along her thighs and sides. Olivia's fingers coursed lazily along his back. "Just one request." She gave him an impish look. "When you go get Mel to bring her up here, leave my legs spread so the first thing she sees when she walks in is my pussy." "You're rotten ya know that? I have to live with her too ya know." "She'll laugh. It's just roommate hijinks." Dave returned to kissing Olivia. He moved his lips lower, down her neck, to her collarbone, and then the slopes of her tits. He slipped his hands underneath her, unclasping her bra. Gingerly, he removed it. Olivia's large tits, no longer supported by a bra, formed two delicious lumps on her chest, that looked like they were about to slide off her chest. Olivia's eyes glistened, radiating joy as Dave took her tits in his hands and began kissing them. She moaned as he ministered to her bosom with his mouth. When he took one nipple in his mouth and suckled, she gasped. "Oh, David, Yes!" Pleasure and unbridled joy left her breathing ragged, her mind awash in bliss. His hands remained at her tit, massaging gently, easing her higher with delicate caresses. His mouth proceed lower, kissing her ribs. Her abdomen. Kissing and licking her belly button. She giggled and twisted her torso. Dave brought his hands down to Olivia's hips. He grasped her panties and pulled them down to her ankles, raising himself and her legs up. He tossed them aside and brought his face to kiss the crease of her pelvis and her hip. She shuddered. Her arousal scented the room. Her lovely light brown vulva filled his vision as he breathed softly across her bare essence. The hairs of the small landing strip on her mons tousled in the artificial breeze. She lifted her head to look at him. "David;” she pleaded. He grinned. He locked eyes with her and closed his mouth around her lower lips and began to suckle. Her body arched and she sucked in a breath. His tongue played across her sopping wet slit. He tasted her juices. He nibbled her flowering inner lips. He slipped his tongue into her entrance. "Oh God David Yes! Oh please put it in me." Olivia whimpered. "Darling, you've wanted this night for a long time. I intend to make it worthwhile." "You are enough David, that's al; Ah" she cried out as he took her clitoris in his mouth and suckled. He slid one finger gently inside, massaging her tunnel. Every stroke drew her natural lubricant in greater volume than the last. He inserted as second finger and she moaned, writhing, hips bucking. He released her button and withdrew his fingers. She eased her motions. Dave crawled up her body, a victorious and hungry grin on his face. She beamed, breathing heavily. He caressed and kissed her tits briefly as he moved up. Finally hovering over her, face to face, bodies aligned, his erection resting between them, Dave kissed her once again. She clutched him and returned the kiss. Dave maneuvered his member with his hips, aligning with her fully relaxed and open entrance. He pushed in gently, a small distance just to lodge the tip of his helmet in her. The precum coating his cockhead set off a body-rocking orgasm that stole her breath. When her eyes re-opened, Dave drove himself into her, full length, in one smooth stroke. Her eyes glowed with joy. He began moving himself in and out of her. Slowly at first. Always firmly, gently. Staring into her eyes as he worked them both to ecstasy. He picked up his pace. She began rocking her hips with his. Soon they were pounding into each other, breathing raggedly, eyes still locked, her hands braced behind his shoulders until their passion pushed him over the brink, firing rope after rope of hot cum into her waiting vagina. The effect on Olivia was immediate. A primal scream of pleasure burst from her lips as her body convulsed like a marionette in the hands of an angry child. And then she fell to the bed, limp. "Imprinting,; imprinting,; imprinting, ;” Dave kissed her forehead and extracted himself from her body. He crawled off the bed and left to clean himself in the bathroom. He returned with a damp washcloth to clean her. After dressing in loose shorts and a shirt, he arranged her as she'd requested and left the room shaking his head. Melanie met him at the bottom of the stairs with a passionate kiss and a tight hug. "You need a minute or two?" "Yeah, let me get a drink and I should be fine." He returned the kiss, then slipped from her arms to search out some juice from the fridge. "Oh, I thought you meant you needed a little something to steel yourself for doing me." "Please." Dave guzzled half the glass. "One, you are hot. Two," he blushed a bit, "I have a thing for redheads." Melanie smiled. "Oh yeah?" "Hell, if you had freckles, I'd kiss each one of them." That made her blush. After Dave finished off a second glass of juice, he and Melanie headed upstairs, pursued by catcalls and wolf whistles. Esme, who'd been invited into the living room after Dave and Olivia had gone upstairs, just laughed at the shenanigans. Opening the door, Melanie exclaimed, "Oh my god, you left; " she pursed her lips. "No, she put you up to this didn't she?" Dave chuckled and grabbed a light blanket. "No," Melanie said, "save that to cover us both when you finish with me." She cupped her hand under one of Liv's shapely thighs and brought the leg over the other, giving her friend a bit of modesty she hadn't asked for. Dave noticed that her hand seemed to linger just a bit on Liv's thigh. It certainly looked like Mel gave her rump a light squeeze. Maybe he just imagined it. She turned to face him. "Reading between the lines, from everything Liv's told me, you don't think you deserve any of us, do you?" Dave swallowed hard, trying not to react. "I'm going to tell you something harsh and reassuring. You don't. And you know something else? We don't deserve your love either. I learned bouncing around those homes that love isn't earned. It's too valuable to be earned. No one is ever worthy of someone else's love. Body, heart, or mind. Love is a gift. We each give our love to you, by our choice. And you give us your love by your choice. I barely know you and I'm more comfortable being here with you than I've ever been with any man." She paused to let that sink in. "David, just accept that you are a damn good man, and we are all happy to be here with you. Enjoy what we give you. Let us enjoy what you give in return." Dave felt like this beautiful young woman that barely knew him was staring straight into his heart, laying it bare and spearing it with the cruelest weapon; hope. He stretched out his hand tentatively, reaching for the sash holding her blouse closed. She looked down briefly, seeing his hand. She immediately looked into his eyes and gave the smallest nod, and a smile. Dave pulled slowly on the loose tail of the cinch and dropped it. The belt ends fell to her sides and the halves of her blouse hung loosely, exposing the center of her chest and abdomen. Melanie had a belly button piercing. A small chain with two small clear crystals near the top and at the bottom, a butterfly done mostly in silver metal clasping tiny crystals, except for a soft pink pearl serving as the body of the faux insect. "You like? Your profile said you weren't a fan of body modification, but I was hoping you would be ok with this." "It's cute and sexy and innocent and naughty all at once." Dave smiled. He stepped up to her, sliding his hands into her blouse and around her back. He pulled her into a soft, slow kiss. They explored each other that way for a few minutes. Dave brought his hands up to her tits, cupping them and kneading them through her black satin bra. Melanie sucked in a breath and hummed. She broke the kiss and drew his attention with her eyes. "The others told me how you like to take your time, maximize a woman's pleasure. I am super fucking horny right know. You can take me to the heights later, we have forever for that. Right now I just need to pound your stake into me and lay claim to my body." "What about your heart?" She grinned "Just like they said you would. It's getting there, just takes a bit more time." She shrugged her blouse off and shucked her pants. The panties were also black and satiny. "Come on Davey, fuck my brains out and make me yours." She tossed her bra and panties aside quickly and crawled up the bed, turn over on her back once she was alongside her friend. Dave stripped of his shirt and shorts rapidly and joined her on the bed, pressing his body lightly against hers. His erection sandwiched between their torsos, her medium sized tit and their pointy nipples pressed against his chest. He kissed her again and she hummed. She worked her hips against his and together that got him lodged in her. A few strokes inside her passage caused him to leak out the first drips of precum and she exploded in a howling convulsion, her eyes rolling back, one hand flailing and bashing the insensate Olivia. "Fuck that was good. Give it to me David, give your woman what she needs. Seal your claim." She kissed him fiercely and they both rocked their hips savagely. No sensuality, just raw primal fucking of two hungry bodies. Despite his recent bout with Liv, this carnal frenzy brought Dave to the pinnacle faster than he anticipated and he crashed through, erupting a geyser of cum inside her depths. As the hot load filled her cavity, Melanie wailed in ecstasy, her mind shattered by the biochemical overload. Then she flopped to the bed, repeating the new world's chant of family harmony and togetherness. Chapter 6 – Shenanigans. October 4, 2020. David Belsus awoke to three beautiful young ladies lying beside him, all nude. As yet, none of his partners had elected to sleep in another room. Last night they all emphatically wanted to be near him. No one piled over anyone else. Lupie came to bed in a rich blue camisole with matching high cut panties. Shawna clad herself in a soft pink camisole and pink boy shorts. Jan wore one of Dave's sweatshirts as a baggy night gown, no panties underneath. He'd checked by way slipping his hands under the hem of the shirt to dance along her skin. Finding paradise exposed, he impishly fingered her to heaven as she begged for his cock. She beamed when he finished. She kissed him deeply after he sucked all her juices off his digits. None of the three were in bed at the moment. Shawna was likely on her way to work already. Which meant Jan and Lupie had gotten up with her to talk and share breakfast, or at least coffee. They had developed a morning routine rather quickly. That left Liv and Melanie nude, side by side on his left, and Becca, nude, curled tightly under his right arm, his hand resting just above her hip. She slumbered peacefully, unperturbed by the small motions he made as he took in the morning tableau. Becca's insecurities stemming from the near-abduction at the vax center had faded quickly with the reassurance of imprinting on Dave. What followed in its wake was the desire to be close to the person she'd just started sleeping with, magnified by this being the only person she'd ever slept with, further multiplied by the vaccine-clad certainty this was her person for life. Becca wasn't pushy about it. She knew enough to leave some space for the others to get their 'Dave time' too. In and out of bed. And the others, having experienced a similar phase in life, and happy that, for her, it really would be for a lifetime, accommodated her wherever possible. And then Dave's mind recalled a text conversation. "; Oh god, I just had this thrill run through me at the idea of waking up with you already in me, on top of me." Dave stroked her hip softly, slowly easing his fingers toward the crease where her leg met her pelvis. After several minutes of this, he brought his left hand up to cup her tit, massaging lightly, avoiding the nipple. He wanted to slowly raise her towards wakefulness, and ignite her libido, but he didn't want her awake until after he'd penetrated her. Just as she'd asked. Dave carefully eased himself out of her arms, rotating himself until he was kneeling on the bed, behind her knees and 'under' her butt as Becca lay curled on her left side. Dave leaned in and began kissing along Becca's outer thigh of her top leg while gently stroking the inner thigh of her bottom leg with his right hand. His left hand stroked softly along her side. A quick brush of her lower lips indicated her unconscious arousal, or the serum effects. Either way, Dave rubbed his half-hard cock between her thighs, rubbing against her labia, to get them both ready. He kept kissing her hand and arm while softly playing with her tit. "David?!" Came the scandalized whisper. Lupie and Jan stood, frozen, in the doorway, not believing what they were seeing. "She expressly asked for this, you can even check my text messages." Both ladies looked concerned, but said no more. A few more minutes of play time had Dave fully hard, regaining what he briefly lost with the interruption. Becca was ready as well. Dave seated himself at her entrance and pushed slowly, steadily forward. He was half inside her, leaning over her when Becca's eyes flew open. Wide-eyed, mouth agape, she turned her head and moaned. She writhed against David and clutched his upright arms. When her breath returned, she kissed him hard. She pulled away, winking as she deliberately flexed the muscles of her inner passage. Dave took that as a signal to continue. He steadily worked himself in her. Becca grinned madly, moaning and encouraging him. In a few minutes, both were racing to a peak they reached in tandem. Becca fell limp against the mattress, gasping. Dave steadied himself by resting his ass on his heels. Both dismounted the bed and began searching for clothes. Lupie gave Dave a quick kiss on the cheek and hugged Becca before heading downstairs. Jan stayed to change clothes. Jan viewed Becca with a grin. "Get your jollies little freak?" Becca beamed and blushed. "Umm hmm." "Just razzing you, ya know." "I know. I'm still learning what I like, and that is one of them. You know, the way you get off when a guy has a big; book collection." Her eyes twinkled. She squealed and caught the pillow Jan threw as she joined the laughter. "Oh my god, a naked pillow fight. I knew they were real!" Dave laughed and ducked as both partners chucked pillows at him. Dark brown irises set in almond eyes gazed at Dave from Becca's laptop resting on the folding table Becca had set up in one of the unused bedrooms. Raven black hair framed an oval face of chocolate brown before cascading over shoulders set with remembered power, but a hint of sag. The plain white scoop necked t-shirt stretched into small ripples between her tits. The shirt was mostly opaque, yielding evidence of a white bra of exactly the same tone as the shirt, but nonetheless unable to disguise two ripe, thick nipples making their presence known. As the call began, her small, tight mouth had appeared balanced between the promise of lighting up the room with a smile, or unleashing a verbal tirade that would leave all within earshot cringing. Dave's skeptical, reserved approach was pushing her more towards desperation. "Yes, I have been; unkind to people through all of high school. I thought I was better than a lot of people. I had a group that I hung out with, and we deemed ourselves 'the betters' of everyone else. Becca knows some of what I did, more from hearing about it or seeing it than experiencing it directed at her. I; held back since she helped me study." Reena swallowed before continuing. "I've had all these months to think about life and people and a lot of stuff okay? I'm not proud of my behavior. I was a bitch." Her eyes began to water at the lower edge. "Being isolated, knowing people are dying, finding out from a few friends they only have another day or hour left; " her voice caught. A few tears coursed down her apple cheeks, but she batted them aside quickly. "Do you know what it's like to stop hearing from someone that you thought you'd invite to your wedding, or have your kids play together?" Becca inhaled, about to speak, but Dave stayed her with a gentle touch. It wouldn't do to interrupt when Reena was clearly pouring her heart out. The words she spoke over the next several minutes could be the ones he really needed to hear to make a good decision. "The kids in grades below us stopped answering a long time ago. There's an internet rumor that this thing takes more men than women, and everyone under eighteen, but even the ones over eighteen are hard to find someone that answers, boy or girl." Reena's 'queen of the school' composure was cracking. While that allowed a glimpse at the person behind the mask, it wouldn't do to let her fall apart. Time to say something reassuring, but realistic. "Reena, just tell me about why you want to be here." "Honestly, Becca may be the only friend I have left I the world. And I was never a very good friend to her before. I; I want to do better. I've been thinking a lot about what I should change. Specific things I should stop saying or doing. Remembering to say 'please' when I ask for something instead of expecting compliance because of 'who I am.' Or saying 'thank you' when someone else does something for me. Doing something for someone else just because they need it, even if they never asked." Shaking, Reena paused to collect herself. "Becca has told me about you. I'm not smart like you and her, but I would like to study something past high school. Please, please choose me. I'll; I'll do anything you want." Her voice lowered and her eyes dropped at the last sentence. "There's a lot I still don't know about sex, but I'll learn. I'll be your little; " "Hold up. Kareena, I'm not out to push you to be some kind of play toy. If we are compatible in other ways, we'll figure out the sex part. Why don't you tell me about your hobbies, things you do just because they're fun? May be things you did even if your friends weren't into them." "Well, I do like to read; even though I joined in with the others when we made fun of 'bookworms'." Her eyes were downcast for the end of that sentence but came back up. "Becca mentioned you're a big book lover. But; I don't read; like nonfiction, or high class stuff. I mean, I have red Lord of the Rings, but that took forever. I could only get through like the first three pages of Moby Dick and Tale of Two Cities before passing out though." She still looked scared, so Dave gave her some reassurance. "Yeah, I think I maxed out after the first chapter of each of those. Some people love that style, but for me, it was a snooze fest too. The last two I mean. I love Lord of the Rings. So tell me, what do you like to read?" "Well, there's this series about this guy that keeps monsters in check in the San Francisco area." "Monsters?" Dave tried not to sound dubious. "Well, magical creatures. Fairies, unicorns, vampires, stuff like that. Oh, the author's name is Blake Conrad. It's a lot of fun if you like magic stuff. I have the full collection. Everything that's out so far. The next book was due out already, but the pandemic hit and who knows when they'll publish it now. For all I know, the one that's waiting is the last one. Chances are the author caught this thing and died months ago." Her face darkened again. "Well, if this does work out," Dave said, "You're welcome to bring your complete; Blake Conrad collection with you, and we'll look for similar books, similar titles. I know Terry Pratchett, Neil Gaiman and Ursula K. Le Guin use a lot of magic themes in their works. Sounds like they might be right up your alley." Hearing Dave endorse her reading interest perked Reena up. "You know, I could help the other girls too. I like doing nails. I'm pretty good at it too. I can free hand designs and stuff." "I could see where that could come in handy. So to speak." Dave grimaced at his unintended pun. Becca laughed. Reena just shook her head. "Anyway, I'm sure some of the ladies would appreciate that. I'll stick with natural myself," Dave said with a wink. That got a chuckle out of her. "Look, I'm not expecting you to have everything planned out. You're eighteen. There's still a lot to decide. And speaking of decisions, I'd like you to meet virtually with the other ladies of the house and we'll talk as a family after." "Also, take some time yourself to think this through completely. I know you want to be here so you can be close to someone familiar, but bear in mind, that means being sexually bonded to me, a forty-six year old man, more than twice your age. By the time you were born, I'd finished grad school, got married, had a kid, and divorced." Reena looked pensive but nodded. Dave left her to talk with Becca more. He caught Jan in the library with a notepad, apparently noting possible additions. On his suggestion, she left to join Becca. In the dining room, he found Olivia munching a bowl of cereal. Lupie sat with her. The two were sharing an easy conversation which halted when Dave walked in. He'd seen Lupie's bible on an end table in the living room when he passed through. Liv must have come down to get breakfast while Lupie was conducting a bible study on her own. Not like it was safe yet to go to a church. Especially when so many church goers around here seemed to buy into the 'just a hoax' nonsense. Dave shook his head. Christian Nationalism seem purpose built to destroy conservatism and faith in one fell swoop. Sure had a good shot at it with this damn plague. Dave shook out thoughts of things he couldn't control. Here, now, was one woman that had been interested in him for a few years as she lived next door, and another that had pined for him for; a decade? And both were happy to be bound to him by this weird vaccine, even though it meant sharing him with other women. This world was wonderful and terrifying in the same breath. "Morning, Hermosa," Dave said before kissing Lupie on the lips. She hummed into the brief contact. "Morning, love bug," he said as he greeted Olivia in the same manner. As he pulled away, she slugged his shoulder, smiling scowl pulling her lips tight. Lupie shook her head. "David, I'm with Olivia on this one. Terms of endearment you used when she was a child are not conducive to her feeling she's being accepted as a woman." "I meant it as continuity. She has a lot of love to give. Always has. And I appreciate that." Olivia's scowl relaxed but did not become a smile. Well, not immediately. Lupie raised an eyebrow at him with a gentle smile. Dave realized what he needed was a change of subject. "Becca is upstairs Zooming with a friend of hers from high school. She; would like to join us here." Both ladies smirked. Dave sighed and rolled his eyes. He brought a hand up to his face and rubbed his eyes before leaning into the hand, the elbow of the same arm resting on the table. "Look, it's not like I'm seeking women out. I'm not out pursuing young girls." Olivia shifted in her seat. "I mean; " "I get it Dave. Don't apologize." Her voice was soft, with a hint of iron. "I talked with her for a while. She's apparently been talking with Becca since before the two of you got vaxxed in the first place." He said, looking at Lupie. "And it seems Becca has been telling Reena all about us, especially about vaxxed life with me." "Kareena Agrawal? The one Becca calls 'the Indian Karen'?" Olivia barely managed to contain the mouthful of cereal and milk at Lupie's interjection. Dave held back a laugh. "She seems genuinely heartbroken and lost, Lupie. And she has taken time in isolation to examine her past behavior." Dave paused, looking each of them in the eye. "I'm reserving judgement for now. I think it would be a good idea if each of you took time to talk with her, probably with Becca as host. I ran into Jan already, she's probably up there with her now. All I'm asking is that you get with Becca sometime today to find a time you can Zoom with her and form your own opinion. I may be 'the man of the house'; " Dave bowed his arms out from his sides, leaning side to side with a faux stern look on his face; "but this is too big not to get ya'lls take on it as well." Both women giggled at the display. "Okay, okay, I'll seek Becca out in a few minutes. I'll give Reena a fair hearing, just understand, I've heard enough of her exploits to be a bit wary." "Wouldn't have it any other way, cielo." The warmth of the smile Lupie gave him was enough to power an entire town. It was a few hours past noon when Dave heard voices in the bedroom. He left his office to see if that meant Melanie was up. She'd been out for eighteen hours. Opening the door, he found Becca and Liv sitting on the bed, talking. Mel was nowhere to be seen. "Mel up I take it?" "Yup, been awake for a few minutes. She needed to use the bathroom," Becca informed him. "She'll probably be in there a while." Liv chimed in, just as Mel emerged. She had a huge smile on her face. "Wow, usually a night like last night would leave you crying on the toilet for an hour. And I needed a hazmat suit to go in there afterwards." Mel smirked. She strode over to Dave and gave him a big hug. He recognized the t-shirt she wore, black with a white line drawing of Einstein sticking out his tongue. Recognized, because it was probably the one from his closet. "Looks like I unlocked the special bonus. They did say sometimes a healing process happens during imprinting. How long was I out anyway?" "About eighteen hours," said Liv. "Longest of any of my partners. What's the healing you're talking about?" "I have; had; I B S. I tend to be careful about what I eat, or go ahead and indulge once in a while, knowing I'm going to pay the price in the morning." She turned to face Liv, with her hands on her hips. "And for your information missy, I was somewhat careful last night. The wine was dry, and I only ate a little bit of cheese. And I didn't have any deviled eggs." She grumbled that last sentence. Liv looked at Dave. "She loves deviled eggs, especially made with dill relish instead of sweet, which I've told her was the way you do it. Not that you made last night's, but that does mean the only relish in the house is dill. Problem is, the protein in the whites plus the fat in the yolk and mayo is an issue for her. If it weren't for that, she'd gobble deviled eggs like she's trying to set a world record." Dave chuckled. "As a deviled egg lover, I can testify that that much deviled egg will cause intestinal issues that oughta be against the Geneva Convention, without any medical conditions." The trio giggled. Becca sat bolt upright for a minute. "Hey, weren't there deviled eggs leftover in the fridge?" Mel was already up and moving. "Clear square sandwich container with the see through blue lid!" Mel's happy cackle faded as she sprinted down the stairs. To be continued in part 5, Based on a post by RonanJWilkerson, in 12 parts, for Literotica.

In this re-release of a classic episode of the Presence Pioneers Podcast, Matthew Lilley discusses the concept of forerunners in the context of Jesus' first and second comings. He highlights key biblical figures such as Anna and John the Baptist, emphasizing their roles in preparing the way for Jesus. The conversation explores the importance of prayer, fasting, and partnership with God in fulfilling His purposes. Matthew encourages listeners to embrace their calling as forerunners, engaging in a lifestyle of prayer and intercession to prepare for Jesus' return. Merry Christmas!

The NFL regular season is nearing its end, and there are plenty of must-watch games in Week 17. However, there are plenty of duds on the schedule as well. How do you decipher those can't miss games from those which you only keep tabs on your fantasy football team for? That's where the For Your Viewing Pleasure podcast comes in where hosts Jeff Hartman and Wesley Coleman talk about the slate of games in Week 17, and what you should, and shouldn't, be watching. This podcast is a part of the Pro Football Insiders. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you struggling with hormone therapy that isn't working? Wondering why testosterone for women is so hard to access? Feeling confused about vaginal estrogen warnings? This special Best of 2025 episode of Pleasure In The Pause tackles the most pressing questions midlife women asked this year about hormone optimization, sexual satisfaction, and reclaiming pleasure during perimenopause and menopause.Host Gabriela Espinosa revisits the year's most downloaded conversations—featuring leading women's health experts discussing hormone therapy optimization, the truth about testosterone for women, the historic FDA hearing on vaginal estrogen, redefining sexual satisfaction in midlife, exploring fantasy and desire, and discovering the five essential pleasure principles every woman should know. Whether you're navigating symptoms, considering hormone therapy, or simply want to feel more alive in your body, this episode delivers evidence-based insights and empowering tools for thriving through midlife.Featuring conversations with Dr. Jila Senemar, Dr. Susan Hardwich-Smith, Dr. Laurie Mintz, and Lauren Elise Rogers. Highlights from our discussion include:The "big three" hormones—estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone—each address different menopausal symptoms, and treatment should be individualized based on your top priorities like sleep, mood, energy, or libido.Women naturally produce more testosterone than estradiol throughout their lives, yet have zero FDA-approved testosterone products compared to men's 20+, despite proven benefits for libido, bone health, muscle mass, and cognitive function.Low-dose vaginal estrogen cannot be detected in the bloodstream yet carries an unfounded FDA black box warning, preventing millions of women from accessing a safe treatment that prevents 50% of UTIs.Only 4-18% of women orgasm from penetration alone, and less than 2% use penetration when masturbating—closing the pleasure gap requires prioritizing clitoral stimulation as the main event, not just "foreplay."Erotic fantasy, built on the four cornerstones of longing, taboo, power, and ambivalence, can be a healthy springboard to arousal when integrated openly rather than pushed into the shadows.A turned-on life in midlife isn't about performance or sexy lingerie—it's about living in alignment with what fuels your joy, vitality, and truth, whether through art, nature, movement, or intimate touch.2025 was a turning point for women's health—from historic FDA hearings to conversations shattering decades of sexual myths and medical dogma. These six episodes represent what midlife women are hungry for: truth, empowerment, and permission to reclaim pleasure on their own terms.As you move into 2026, remember that your pleasure isn't optional—it's your birthright. Whether you're advocating for better hormone therapy, learning what actually brings you to orgasm, or discovering what makes you feel fully alive, this is your invitation to thrive.CONNECT WITH GABRIELLA ESPINOSA:InstagramLinkedInAccess the Intimacy Holiday Gift Guide today. Go to https://www.gabriellaespinosa.com/ to book a call.Full episodes on YouTube. The information shared on Pleasure in the Pause is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any decisions about your health or treatment. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the host or Pleasure in the Pause.

In this conversation, I speak with psychotherapist and sexologist Suzannah Weiss about women's sexual health, the challenges we face, and why it's so important for us to advocate for our own needs. We discuss her book Eve's Blessing, which explores how pain has been normalised in women's lives and why healthcare systems need to respond more effectively. We also talk about empowerment, objectification, and the vital role of consent, especially in the context of sexual assault. Together, we explore how women can navigate their sexuality post‑menopause and the importance of finding healthcare providers who truly support us.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Sex Advice for Seniors01:21 Eve's Blessing: Women's Sexual Health and Pain05:30 The Importance of Healthcare in Women's Sexuality10:11 Subjectified: Empowerment and Objectification17:29 Healing Through Narrative: Sexual Assault and Consent23:05 Navigating Sexuality Post-Menopause26:45 Conclusion and Resourceswww.suzannahweiss.comhttps://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1549106https://www.amazon.com/Eves-Blessing-Uncovering-Pleasure-Behind/dp/1509566171/https://www.amazon.com/Subjectified-Becoming-Subject-Suzannah-Weiss/dp/150956019XUnlock even more pleasure, clarity, and confidence in your intimate life by becoming a paid subscriber. You'll gain full access to every weekly blog, the complete archive of 150+ expert-led podcasts, the private chat room for candid Q&A, and my 32‑page guide Sex Toys and Supplements for Thriving in Later Life. If you're ready to deepen your knowledge, explore new possibilities, and feel fully supported on your journey, upgrade today only £6.99/month or £49.99/year. Get full access to Sex Advice for Seniors at www.sexadviceforseniors.com/subscribe

Part 4: Pleasure, Joy + Comfort as important acts of self-care. In this episode of the series, I walk you through how pleasure, joy, and comfort are not luxuries — they are essential acts of self care. I share real, personal examples of joy and comfort from my own life — from dancing at a Bad Bunny concert, to savoring comforting foods and cozy clothes, to planning a family Holiday moment that lit up my heart. Pleasure, JOY and comfort matters deeply, activating the brain's reward and connection systems. Humans across history, across cultures —have used dance, art, and music as survival tools in times of oppression. This episode invites you to reclaim joy and comfort as essential parts of your self‑care and resilience. This is not self‑care fluff. It's much needed support and medicine. Press play. Brenda PS. GRAB THE HOLIDAY PLAYLIST  For Holiday Season support, we've curated a list of my best holiday and end-of-year episodes — all in one place. You can find it at: www.brendalomeli.com/holidayplaylist Part 4: Pleasure, Joy + Comfort as important acts of self-care. In this episode of the series, I walk you through how pleasure, joy, and comfort are not luxuries — they are essential acts of self care. I share real, personal examples of joy and comfort from my own life — from dancing at a Bad Bunny concert, to savoring comforting foods and cozy clothes, to planning a family Holiday moment that lit up my heart. Pleasure, JOY and comfort matters deeply, activating the brain's reward and connection systems. Humans across history, across cultures —have used dance, art, and music as survival tools in times of oppression. This episode invites you to reclaim joy and comfort as essential parts of your self‑care and resilience. This is not self‑care fluff. It's much needed support and medicine. Press play. Brenda PS. GRAB THE HOLIDAY PLAYLIST  For Holiday Season support, we've curated a list of my best holiday and end-of-year episodes — all in one place. You can find it at: www.brendalomeli.com/holidayplaylist  

If sex has started to feel heavy, pressured, or like something you should be doing instead of something you genuinely want, this episode is for you.Many women in long-term relationships still enjoy sex, but feel disconnected from desire, sensation, or ease. Not because something is wrong with them or their relationship, but because pressure has quietly crept into intimacy.In this episode, we're unpacking the subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways couples put pressure on sex, from frequency expectations, to orgasm chasing, to the unspoken guilt that builds over time, and why that pressure actually shuts pleasure down.You'll learn:Why pressure is read by your nervous system as a threat, not an invitationHow the “ticking clock” and orgasm focus sabotage desire — even when attraction is thereWhy this isn't a libido problem, a hormone problem, or a communication failureHow pressure impacts both partners — and creates avoidance, resentment, and disconnectionWhat actually creates the conditions for desire, connection, and pleasure to returnThis is a grounded, honest conversation for real women in real relationships — not sex tips, performance advice, or quick fixes. We're talking about embodiment, nervous system safety, and responsibility without self-blame.If you're ready to stop forcing intimacy and start creating space for pleasure to breathe again, this episode will meet you right where you are.

Monthly Pleasure - Moontaek Oh 12.23.25 | VISLA FM by VISLA

Today: new years goals in marriage, christmas cock blocks (and lows in general), a woman whose husband frowns upon her solo pleasure time (omg i know), a husband who cant access his wife mentally emotionally or physically, a womans husband who watches porn whilst doing the deed…and MORE in todays EP. ASK ANON @ www.thehornyhousewifepodcast.com popstar: get 20% off your purchase at https://www.popstarlabs.com/hornyhousewife bluechew: get 10% off your first month subscription to bluechew GOLD using code HOUSEWIFE at https://www.bluechew.com beducated: visit https://beducate.me/pd2550-jordyn to get 60% off the yearly pass!!

Peter Herbeck is the Vice President and Director of Missions for Renewal Ministries. Peter oversees the work of lay mission teams throughout the world who work to equip Catholic lay people, bishops, priests, and religious to respond to Blessed Pope John Paul II's call for a new evangelization. He has traveled extensively in the U.S., Canada, Africa, and Eastern Europe for the past thirty years, assisting and training local churches in proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ and ministering through the exercise of spiritual gifts.  In this episode, Peter continues his discussion of the Season of Advent and the coming of Christ at Christmas.Fire On the Earth Airs weekdays at 5am and 2pm Pacific Time go to Spiritfilledevents.com you can also get our free app for your Android and Apple devices. Search Spirit Filled Radio to access our radio app. Support the show

What if your struggles with visibility, speaking up, or setting boundaries aren't personality flaws — but energy blockages?In this episode, we explore the deeper energetic roots of why your voice feels suppressed and how healing the divine feminine — while integrating masculine energy like structure, discipline, and devotion — unlocks confidence, clarity, and purpose.This conversation bridges feminine embodiment, masculine structure, nervous system healing, money mindset, and quantum transformation, all while staying grounded in intuition, whimsy, and magic.You'll hear powerful stories of awakening, identity shifts, devotion, and the exact energetic patterns that keep spiritual women small — and how to finally break through.0:00 Intro 1:36 | Dark Feminine Energy is the Foundation for Transformation10:00 | Changes of Plans is a Portal of Power18:00 | Heavenly Mother as the Divine Feminine Archetype30:14 | Quantum Leaps Through Energy Work1:08:19 | Micro-Practices for Embodiment1:17:09 | Masculine Energy & Sacred Structure1:23:32 | Discipline as Devotion1:41:48 | “Money Goes, Money Flows”1:47:01 | Money Mindset & Self-WorthJoin The Temple of Earth Wisdom, our virtual mystery school where you'll have 24/7 access to practices that raise your frequency, reset your energy, and reconnect you to your soul power and purpose. Start your free trial ➡️ www.marissaremy.com/templeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/marissaremy

Secret pleasure - Impromptu speech at TT groupSecret pleasure - spotify podcast#secret #life #nagendrabharathi #speech My Poems/Stories/Articles in Tamil and English are available at https://www.amazon.com/author/nagendrabharathi

Holiday Specials END IN DAYS — Save up to 50% through Dec 31 This is the final week to access our biggest offers of the year before they close. Details here This isn't a wrap-up — it's a threshold. This Year-End Astrology episode explores the Solstice → New Year portal and what's now opening as 2025 completes. We move day-by-day through Dec 22–28, with a preview through Dec 31, tracking the shift from shedding into embodiment. If 2025 stripped you down, this episode reveals where the new is now asking to be lived — not just understood — as you step toward 2026. Episode Highlights Entering a new epoch: how attention, consciousness, and choice open future timelines Divine Child / Horus activation and the birth of new consciousness Christ & Mary Magdalene energies awakening sacred masculine–feminine harmony Venus on the Galactic Center: feminine magnetism, pleasure-based healing, and creation energy Kali on the North Node: fierce destiny alignment, ego-slaying clarity, and sacred “no/yes” moments Grand Cross recalibration: Isis mysteries, wise action, and Uranus–Merlin alchemy leading into Dec 31 ReWilding Holiday Special Offers! Step into the Brightest, Truest You in 2026 (END DEC 31)  Mary Magdalene Journey Embodied initiation into sacred feminine ground ► Details here Lovers: Venus, Mary Magdalene, and Lalita 3-for-2 Bundle (Save $197) Three archetypes, one current of love & radiance ► Access here Archetype IX Library (Save $1,000 + 4 Months LIVE Coaching) 36 archetypes. 12 gateways. Full Mystery School access ► Save $1,000 + 3 Month Coaching  BONES Membership (Get 4 Months Free) Monthly LIVE Circles, deep support & $690+ in bonuses ► ReWilding Membership 4 Months Free All Holiday Offers (Save up to 50%) → Details here Listen to “Dec 22–31 Astrology | Solstice to New Year & 2025's Final Portal“ podcast here… Topics Explored in “Dec 22–31 Astrology | Solstice to New Year & 2025's Final Portal” podcast: (Times based off audio version) (0:00) Solstice Portal Reset | Standing in the New (5:05) 3I/Atlas + New Moon Echo | Union Codes (8:29) Horus Divine Child | New Human Union (12:51) Don't Miss the New Epoch | Turn Your Attention (16:04) Dec 22 | Venus @ Galactic Center: Feminine Magnetism Activation (22:21) Dec 23 | Magdalene Light-Up + Venus/Hecate/Neptune (26:49) Dec 24 | Venus → Capricorn + Kali North Node (32:32) Venus Opposite Hygeia: Miraculous Healing, Pleasure & Feminine Recode (35:05) Dec 25 | Moon + Kali NN: Destiny “No/Yes” (37:52) Grand Cross | Medusa + Vesta vs Jupiter + Pele + Chiron (Sacred Flame Initiation) (42:17) Dec 26 | Sun–Isis + Venus–Magdalene Gifts (47:55) Dec 27 | Mercury–Chiron: Integrate & Plan (49:09) Dec 28 | Mars–Sophia + Persephone: Wise Action You can leave a comment or question for Sabrina on the YouTube version of this episode. Listen to after “Dec 22–31 Astrology | Solstice to New Year & 2025's Final Portal”: Snake to Horse Portal Episode Watch Part 1 — “Are You in the First Wave?”  Watch Part 2 – “2025 Consciousness Shift Explained“ Galactic Center, Sag New Moon + Solstice Portal  STAY CONNECTED ReWilding Weekly (free, embodied astrology)  IG  Website  Disclaimer: Educational/spiritual perspectives; not medical/mental-health advice. #2025Shift #NewHuman #SpiritualAwakening Welcome to ReWilding with Sabrina Lynn & ReWilding for Women! A gifted facilitator of revolutionary inner work and the world's leading archetypal embodiment expert, Sabrina Lynn is the creator of the groundbreaking ReWilding Way and founder of ReWilding For Women. Sabrina has led more than 100,000 people through programs based on the ReWilding Way, a modality of healing and awakening that strips away the false, the deep wounds from early life, and the fears that hold people back, to reveal their true and unique soul light and help them build their innate capacity to shine it in the world. Her work includes in-person retreats and events, the monthly ReWilding Membership, Living Close to the Bone, Priest/ess Trainings, Mystery Schools, the ReWilding with the Archetypes, and the wildly popular 6 Faces of the Feminine workshop series. Welcome to ReWilding! The post 356 – Dec 22–31 Astrology | Solstice to New Year & 2025's Final Portal appeared first on Rewilding for Women.

अमुकतमुक ला subscribe करण्यासाठी click करा: https://youtube.com/@amuktamuk?si=LCVcdLVB9KMPVHrkया भागात आपण पुरुषांच्या Pleasure बद्दल मोकळेपणाने बोलतो. हा विषय कायम का दुर्लक्षित राहतो आणि यावर आपण उघडपणे चर्चा का करत नाही? नात्यामध्ये Mental आणि Emotional Connection किती महत्वाचं आहे? Pen*s Size, Stamina, बायकांचं Pleasure आणि P*rn यामुळे पुरुषांवर किती Pressure येतं? या सगळ्यावर आपण डॉ. सबिहा यांच्याशी खुसपुस केली आहे. पूर्ण एपिसोड नक्की बघा.In this episode, we talk openly about men's pleasure and needs. Why is men's pleasure often ignored, and who is responsible for it? Is men's pleasure only physical, or do mental and emotional connections matter just as much? We discuss the pressure men feel about size, timing, stamina, and the unrealistic expectations created by p*rn. How do shame, guilt, ego, and poor communication affect men's pleasure and intimacy? We discuss all these questions with Dr. Sabiha. Don't miss the full episode!आणि मित्रांनो आपलं Merch घेण्यासाठी लगेच click करा! Amuktamuk.swiftindi.com Disclaimer: व्हिडिओमध्ये किंवा आमच्या कोणत्याही चॅनेलवर पॅनलिस्ट/अतिथी/होस्टद्वारे सांगण्यात आलेली कोणतीही माहिती केवळ general information साठी आहे. पॉडकास्ट दरम्यान किंवा त्यासंबंधात व्यक्त केलेली कोणतीही मते निर्माते/कंपनी/चॅनल किंवा त्यांच्या कोणत्याही कर्मचाऱ्यांची मते/अभिव्यक्ती/विचार दर्शवत नाहीत.अतिथींनी केलेली विधाने सद्भावनेने आणि चांगल्या हेतूने केलेली आहेत ती विश्वास ठेवण्याजोगी आहेत किंवा ती सत्य आणि वस्तुस्थितीनुसार सत्य मानण्याचे कारण आहे. चॅनलने सादर केलेला सध्याचा व्हिडिओ केवळ माहिती आणि मनोरंजनाच्या उद्देशाने आहे आणि चॅनल त्याची अचूकता आणि वैधता यासाठी कोणतीही जबाबदारी घेत नाही.अतिथींनी किंवा पॉडकास्ट दरम्यान व्यक्त केलेली कोणतीही माहिती किंवा विचार व्यक्ती/कास्ट/समुदाय/वंश/धर्म यांच्या भावना दुखावण्याचा किंवा कोणत्याही संस्था/राजकीय पक्ष/राजकारणी/नेत्याचा, जिवंत किंवा मृत यांचा अपमान करण्याचा हेतू नाही.. Guests: Dr. Sabiha(S*x & Relationship Coach)Host: Omkar Jadhav.Creative Producer: Shardul Kadam.Editor: Rameshwar Garkal.Edit Assistant: Rohit Landge, Priyanka Thosar.Content Manager: Sohan Mane.Social Media Manager: Sonali Gokhale.Social Media Intern: Anushri JoshiLegal Advisor: Savani Vaze.Business Development Manager: Sai Kher.About The Host Omkar Jadhav.Co-founder – Amuk Tamuk Podcast NetworkPodcast Host | Writer | Director | Actor | YouTube & Podcast ConsultantWith 8+ years in digital content, former Content & Programming Head at BhaDiPa & Vishay Khol.Directed 100+ sketches, 3 web series & non-fiction shows including Aai & Me, Jhoom, 9 to 5, Oddvata.Creative Producer – BErojgaar | Asst. Director – The Kerala StoryHost of Khuspus – a podcast on taboo and uncomfortable topics.Visiting Faculty – Ranade Institute, Pune University.Connect with us: Twitter: https://twitter.com/amuk_tamukInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/amuktamuk/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amuktamukpodcastsSpotify: Khuspus #AmukTamuk #marathipodcasts

Are you ready to turn your passion for sexual health into a powerful, profitable brand? Join us for an exclusive workshop where you'll learn from DB herself—creator of the wildly successful Sex Ed with DB podcast with 375K+ downloads and 120K+ followers. This is your chance to get insider tips, real-world tools, and connections that can transform your career. Here's what you'll master: Building Your Brand: Create an authentic, standout identity in the sexual health space. Winning Partnerships: Learn how to connect with brands and sponsors to boost your visibility and income. Going Viral: Crack the formula to make your content blow up and reach thousands. Audience Growth: Discover the strategies you need to grow a loyal, engaged following. Preventing Burnout: Tips to balance content creation while staying sane. Authenticity in Content: The secret to producing quality, on-brand content that resonates. Pricing Strategies: DB's personal advice on how to price yourself based on your career stage. Data-Driven Success: Learn to harness data analytics and tell compelling stories with your numbers. Business Set-Up: Get the lowdown on LLC filing, contracts, bookkeeping, and more. Social Media Mastery: Strategies to grow your social media following while staying true to your message. Making a Living Online: How to become a full-time sexual health expert on the internet. This isn't just another workshop.It's a game-changer for anyone serious about thriving in the sexual health space. For full episode: https://tinyurl.com/25p7eypy To learn more, sign up or get your free webinar: https://www.sexedwithdb.com/workshop Learn more about the Intimacy Rewired program on episode #458 or click here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.intimacyrewired.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. And mention Shameless Sex to get $100 off! 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

What St Isaac exposes here is not a technique but a diagnosis. He is ruthless because the sickness is deep. The soul is meant to be good soil but soil is not neutral ground. It either receives the seed with vigilance or it becomes choked. Remembrance of God is not a poetic feeling but a sustained pressure on the heart a vigilance that does not sleep. When this remembrance is alive the soul becomes a place where God Himself shades and illumines. There is no romance here. Light appears inside darkness not because the darkness is denied but because the soul has chosen to stand watch within it. St Isaac refuses to let us spiritualize our way around the body. The belly is not incidental. What enters the mouth reaches the heart. He speaks bluntly because self deception thrives in vagueness. Excess dulls perception. Pleasure thickens the air of the soul. Wisdom is not stolen from us by demons alone but smothered by our own indulgence. A full belly does not merely weaken resolve it fuels lust because the body has been trained to demand satisfaction. This is not moralism. It is anthropology. The knowledge of God does not coexist with a body that has been enthroned. Here asceticism is revealed as truth telling. It strips away the lie that discipline is punishment. Labor is not opposed to grace. Labor is the ground where grace becomes intelligible. St Isaac compares it to labor pains because knowledge of God is not an idea grasped but a life brought forth. Without toil there is no birth only fantasy. Sloth does not simply delay holiness it gives birth to shame because the soul knows it has avoided the cost of truth. This is where the inner disposition becomes decisive. Asceticism without remembrance hardens into pride. Asceticism without humility becomes violence against the self. But remembrance without discipline dissolves into sentimentality. St Isaac holds them together because life demands it. The question is not how much one fasts or how little one sleeps but whether the heart is consenting to be trained. Discipline embraced with resentment breeds bitterness. Discipline embraced with attention becomes wisdom. In an age starved of living elders this teaching cuts even deeper. We are tempted either to abandon asceticism entirely or to turn it into a private project shaped by personality and preference. St Isaac offers neither comfort. He places responsibility back into the hands of the one who desires God. The absence of elders does not absolve us. It makes inner honesty more urgent. The body becomes the first elder. Hunger teaches restraint. Fatigue teaches humility. Failure teaches mercy. If these are ignored no amount of reading will save us. Christ's closeness to the mouth of the one who endures hardship is not sentimental reassurance. It is promise and warning. He draws near to the body that has consented to the Cross. Not to the body pampered under the language of balance or self care. The care Christ offers is not the removal of hardship but His presence within it. Asceticism then is not heroic excess but fidelity to reality. It is the refusal to live divided. Priceless indeed is labor wrought with wisdom because it produces not control but clarity. The soul begins to see. And once it sees it can no longer pretend. --- Text of chat during the group: 00:01:50 Fr. Charbel Abernethy: Page 170 paragraph 5 00:06:54 susan: how is lori hatari? 00:14:30 Fr. Charbel Abernethy: Page 170 paragraph 5 00:27:40 Eleana Urrego: the brain register emotional and physical pain in the same way. 00:29:59 Jessica McHale: A question about ascetic disciplines of the body: I discerned monastic life with an order of nuns that wouldn't let me fast.(3 times a week was all I was asking) and wouldn't allow me to exercise more than a contemplative walk (which is not exercise to me). I feel very much called to fast for spiritual reasons and called to bodily stewardship as well. It's very personal. I coudl never understand how monastic nuns could discourage this and encourage--in my opinion--indulging in food too much. 00:31:48 Una's iPhone: Reacted to "A question about asc…" with

As we close out 2025 and stand at the threshold of the Winter Solstice, this episode offers a gentle, embodied way to meet the year ahead.If you've chosen a word or mantra for 2026 but it hasn't quite landed in your body yet, this one's for you.In this final episode of the year, Dianne explores why pleasure is the missing link in manifestation and how intentions come alive when the body is included.Inspired by the idea that affirmations are most powerful when we're “in the vortex,” this episode translates manifestation into the language of the nervous system, breath, presence, and sensual embodiment.Inside this episode:Why your body must believe your mantra before it can unfoldHow pleasure creates the internal safety needed for creationWhat it truly means to be “in the vortex” from a somatic perspectiveA gentle embodied practice to help your 2026 word come aliveThis is a threshold episode. A moment to slow down, soften, and allow your next season to emerge from within.✨ If you're feeling the pull to be supported in this work, the Solstice portal into the Vital Goddess Mastery is open for a few more days. Join us in the VGM Temple at 50% off our normal tuition.You can learn more and join us here. 

Stacey Williams joins Joanna Coles as the anticipated release of the Epstein files throws fresh scrutiny on Donald Trump's long-denied proximity to Jeffrey Epstein. Williams recounts how a dinner invitation led to a relationship with Epstein—and, she says, to being deliberately walked into Trump Tower where Trump groped her while Epstein stood by, a moment she now believes was staged. Does her account expose how power, silence, and sexual coercion were normalized at the highest levels—and why Trump remains untouched as others in Epstein's orbit fall? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Part 3 of the Christmas Clean series, designed to help men stay clean and free from pornography through the potentially triggering holiday season, ensuring they enter the New Year with momentum. This episode challenges the world's message that Christmas is "all about you", and instead focuses on the power of making the season about others.   Know more about Sathiya's work: Join Deep Clean Inner Circle - The Brotherhood You Neeed (+ get coached by Sathiya) For Less Than $2/day Submit Your Questions (Anonymously) To Be Answered On The Podcast Get A Free Copy of The Last Relapse, Your Blueprint For Recovery Watch Sathiya on Youtube For More Content Like This   Chapters:  (00:30) Introduction: The World's Message vs. The Truth. (00:54) The Research and Strategy of Being Charitable for a Clean Christmas. (01:14) Series Goal: Catapulting into 2026 as a Free Man. (01:52) The Message: It's Not About You. (02:18) The Problem with Self-Centricity: Materialism, Pleasure, and the Connection to Pornography. (03:17) The Strategy: Don't Make It About You; Make It About Someone. (03:36) Story: The Grandkid Who Cried Over One Missing Gift. (04:30) The New Tradition: Giving Toys to Kids in Need. (05:12) Why Making It About "Me" Leads to a "Blue Christmas". (05:43) The Research: Meaning and Purpose Diminish Pornography Use (Jay Strainor). (06:23) Practical Example: Supporting a Struggling Family Member. (07:28) Meaningful Christmas = Less Pornography. (07:44) Provocative Question: What can you do that's bigger than you?. (08:24) It doesn't have to be wild—a phone call is meaningful (08:49)The Host's Goal: Meaningful Conversations and Encouragement. (09:47) More Joy and Meaning from Giving. (10:11) Sneak Peek at Part 4: The BLT.  

The NFL regular season is nearing its end, and there are plenty of must-watch games in Week 16. However, there are plenty of duds on the schedule as well. How do you decipher those can't miss games from those which you only keep tabs on your fantasy football team for? That's where the For Your Viewing Pleasure podcast comes in where hosts Jeff Hartman and Wesley Coleman talk about the slate of games in Week 16, and what you should, and shouldn't, be watching. This podcast is a part of the Pro Football Insiders. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week Elle and Vee discuss all the ways they've been exploring pleasure recently: including BDSM scenes with vibrators, flogging and five orgasms, achieving sub space, mushroom-fueled connection, cervical orgasms while pregnant, knife play, cock warming, and that very specific moment when you yawn on a dick and keep going anyway. Halloween Night BDSM Scene Gone Wrong: Vee and Mister A are stranded in a spooky AirBnB. (1:37)Pain/Pleasure Cycling: Vee has five orgasms during a BDSM scene with Mister A. (4:32)Sub Space: Vee finds surrender when she wears her collar. The difference between letting go and being objectified. (12:00) Psylocybin Sex: connective sex. (17:08)Cervical Orgasms and Third Trimester Sex: Elle stimulates her cervix, gets juicy and talks about which positions she can and can't do while she's super pregnant. (18:44)Hotel Ambience Hacks: How to set the mood and get the right mood lighting in your hotel room. (26:32)Knife Play Bondage Scene: Mister A uses bondage tape, a knife and a wand on Vee. The surprising upside to having an STI. (28:50)Knife Play with Strangers at the Nude Beach: Elle talks about the time she let a guy on a nude beach pretend to shave her pussy with a knife. (38:32) Cock Warming: WTF is cock warming? What's the point? (42:53)Gentle Face Fucking and Yawning During Blow Jobs: a gentler version of face fucking, and yawning due to air hunger during head. (45:22)Where to Find Us & How to Support the Show:

What happens when the life you thought was perfect turns out to be perfectly shut down?Today's guest, Xanet Pailet, is a nationally recognized sex and intimacy coach, bestselling author of Living an Orgasmic Life, and founder of Passionate Intimacy Retreats — but her journey didn't start in the world of pleasure and connection. She started in a 26-year sexless marriage while building a successful legal career — and it wasn't until she reached the age of 50 that she experienced her first real sexual awakening, a moment that changed the course of her life forever. Passionate Intimacy RetreatsIn this powerful and vulnerable conversation, Xanet and Robert B. Foster dive into:

Let's ask a sub all about subbing! What's the appeal of submission? Can being a submissive be feminist? Can being a sub be empowering? And how can you figure out if you might be a sub too? Plus: DB and guest Lina Dune talk about trad wives. Ladies, is that just a kink? GUEST DETAILSLina Dune is a kink writer, content creator, host of the Ask A Sub podcast and fairy submother to all who seek her advice. She can be found writing about desire over on substack at askasub.substack.com. She's occasionally on instagram at @askasub2.0 and you can get Ask A Sub wherever you get your podcasts. Substack Podcast FROM THIS EPISODE What's a trad wife? And what's a day collar? And why are they wearing those? TABOO SCIENCEWe're so glad to bring you this GREAT clip from Taboo Science all about the ABDL kink and community! Make sure to listen to the end to hear this podcast you're going to LOVE, and find the show at https://www.tabooscience.show/ or wherever you're listening to this podcast. TAKE OUR SMUT QUIZFind your page-turning turn-on with our new SMUT QUIZ! In just 5 questions, you'll get right to the good stuff with curated pages, poems, and audios. No slow burn. No fluff. Just pleasure. Take the quiz here: https://sexedwithdb.fillout.com/smutquiz ABOUT SEASON 13 Season 13 of Sex Ed with DB is ALL ABOUT PLEASURE! Solo pleasure. Partnered pleasure. Orgasms. Porn. Queer joy. Kinks, sex toys, fantasies -- you name it. We're here to help you feel more informed, more empowered, and a whole lot more turned on to help YOU have the best sex. CONNECT WITH USInstagram: @sexedwithdbpodcast TikTok: @sexedwithdbThreads: @sexedwithdbpodcast X: @sexedwithdbYouTube: Sex Ed with DB SEX ED WITH DB SEASON 13 SPONSORS Uberlube, Magic Wand, and LELO. Get discounts on all of DB's favorite things here! GET IN TOUCH Email: sexedwithdb@gmail.comSubscribe to our BRAND NEW newsletter for hot goss, expert advice, and *the* most salacious stories. FOR SEXUAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS Check out DB's workshop: "Building A Profitable Online Sexual Health Brand" ABOUT THE SHOW Sex Ed with DB is your go-to podcast for smart, science-backed sex education — delivering trusted insights from top experts on sex, sexuality, and pleasure. Empowering, inclusive, and grounded in real science, it's the sex ed you've always wanted. ASK AN ANONYMOUS SEX ED QUESTION Fill out our anonymous form to ask your sex ed question. SEASON 13 TEAM Creator, Host & Executive Producer: Danielle Bezalel (DB) (she/her) Producer and Growth Marketing Manager: Wil Williams (they/them) Social Media Content Creator: Iva Markicevic Daley (she/her) MUSIC Intro theme music: Hook Sounds Background music: Bright State by Ketsa Ad music: Soul Sync by Ketsa, Always Faithful by Ketsa, and Soul Epic by Ketsa. Thank you Ketsa!

In this teaching, Jonathan Friz explores the significance of Jesus' prayer for unity among believers in John 17. Building on themes from his book, Jesus Gets What He Prays For, the discussion emphasizes the need for a deeper understanding of divine union and the role of the Holy Spirit in achieving this unity. He encourages listeners to embrace faith and pursue the fulfillment of Jesus' prayer in their lives and communities. This was recorded live at The Greenhouse's Phenomenon gathering in Greenville, NC in April 2025.

Steven C, Jillian, and pat Donohue in studio for your Christmas pleasure. Here is the link to the Steven C music show at the Cathedral StevenCmusicSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

All of us think we know what addiction looks like. It's the compulsive consumption of drugs, alcohol, or nicotine. But psychiatrist Anna Lembke argues that our conception of addiction is far too narrow — and that a broader understanding of addiction might help us to understand why so many people are anxious and depressed. This week, we revisit a 2023 episode that remains of the most popular in the history of our show. We'll explore how and why humans are wired to pursue pleasure, and all the ways the modern world tempts us with addictive substances and behaviors.Looking for the perfect holiday gift for the Hidden Brain fan in your life? How about a membership to our podcast subscription, Hidden Brain+? You can learn more about gift subscriptions at patreon.com/hiddenbrain/gift. If t-shirts, tote bags and mugs are more your thing, you can find all kinds of Hidden Brain swag at our online store -- just go to shop.hiddenbrain.org. And if you prefer to give the gift of an experience, consider tickets to our live tour! To see where we're headed in 2026, go to hiddenbrain.org/tour. Thanks and Happy Holidays! Episode image by adriandra karuniawan for Unsplash+  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.