Ask A Sex Therapist with Heather Shannon

Tap into your sexual creativity and get past fear and repression. Embrace your darker fantasies without having to make them real! Certified Sex Therapist & Host, Heather Shannon, interviews guest Bria Rose about her journey from working at Disney to becoming a successful author of dark, sexy fairy tales. She discusses the importance of exploring fantasies through fiction, and her personal journey towards sex positivity. Bria emphasizes the significance of communication in relationships and the need for sexual compatibility. She also shares insights on character creation, overcoming writer's block, and the role of inspiration in sexy writing. The conversation concludes with Bria's advice on navigating relationships and where to find her work.Chapters00:00 From Disney to Dark Fairy Tales02:42 Exploring Morality in Storytelling05:32 The Role of Fantasy in Healing08:30 Sex Positivity and Personal Growth10:30 Character Development in Dark Romance13:20 Reimagining Classic Tales As Dark, Sexy Ones16:14 Feminism and Modern Storytelling21:53 Exploring Character Dynamics in Fiction25:30 Generating Sexy Ideas and Finding Inspiration28:25 The Importance of Communication in Relationships34:10 Navigating Personal Growth and Relationship Dynamics38:34 Creating Characters and Their Therapeutic JourneysKeywordsBria Rose, dark fairy tales, Disney fan fiction, storytelling, morality, erotic novels, sex positivity, character creation, relationships, communication, romance novels, romantasy, sexy books, dark sexual fantasies, sex and healingThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

Learn about Dr. Jack Morin's equation for sexual desire and how you can make that equation work more in your favor!One of the most common things we all want in our sex lives is feeling wanted. And yet it can be elusive! Even when we have mutual physical attraction with our partner, it doesn't always spark sexual desire. Listen in to learn why feeling wanted is important to us, how we feel affected when we don't feel desired and a few things we can do for our partner and for ourselves to turn up the volume on sexual desire. Book A Free Consultation with Heather or one of her team membersKeywordsbelonging, connection, attraction, desire, specialness, relationships, emotional needs, human connection, self-worth, intimacyThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

This week on Ask A Sex Therapist, we explore how aligning with your authentic feminine energy can transform not only your confidence but your sex life. With the help of Inna Segal, an intuitive energy healer and award-winning author of The Secret Language Of Your Body, we break down how polarity builds sexual attraction, why balance within is magnetic, and how shifting your energy can reignite that spark in your relationship.Check out the video version of this episode at https://youtu.be/V98D5jC5_YoFind out more about intimacy coaching with Heather and her team at https://HeatherShannon.coLearn more about Inna Segal's books and programs at: https://www.innasegal.com/Chapters0:00 - About the episode1:37 - Inna Segal (guest)9:21 - The importance of feminine energy14:51 - The importance of sexuality related to age20:36 - How to have a good sex life with your partner24:44 - Color as a way to explore your feminine energy32:16 - Teaching the feminine love40:16 - Reconnecting with feminine energy after a breakup or divorce51:21 - Ways to embrace the feminine59: 18 - Healing with Inna's heart-based card deckKeywordscreativity, self-discovery, societal expectations, personal growth, emotional expression, sex therapist, energy healer, intuitive healing, best selling author, award winning author, color therapyThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

Certified Sex Therapist answers questions about strap-ons for double penetration, managing mismatched sex drives, psychological erection issues, and the importance of emotional intimacy in relationships. Heather provides insights and advice on how to navigate these personal challenges, emphasizing communication and mindfulness as key tools for improving sexual health and relationship satisfaction.Chapters00:00 Listener Q&A Introduction00:27 Exploring Double Penetration with Strap-Ons05:07 Navigating Mismatched Sex Drives12:36 Understanding Psychological Erection Issues19:50 Reclaiming Sexual Desire in Long-Term RelationshipsKeywordsHeather Shannon, listener Q&A, double penetration, sex drives, sex questions, libido, erection issues, performance anxiety, emotional intimacy, improve communication, mindfulness, sex therapy, sex education, podcast, Ask A Sex TherapistThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

Stop feeling like roommates and start feeling like lovers again! Figure out how you fell into this rut and how to change up your patterns. This solo episode gets into the themes of social dynamics, charisma, and embracing healthy obstacles as a good thing for sexual attraction. Host and Certified Sex Therapist Heather Shannon discusses the importance of healthy boundaries, having your own thing going on and putting your best foot forward no matter how long you've been togehter. She also explores the allure of open relationships, emphasizing the excitement that comes from seeing a partner embrace their sexuality and the dynamics of attraction involved.Join the new Intimacy Collective as a Founding Member --> https://heather-shannon.mykajabi.com/offers/aBom4mE2Watch the video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Bp9YZ4e6et4Chapters00:00 From Roommates to Lovers: Understanding the Shift02:30 Creating Attraction: The Equation of Desire10:05 Seeing Each Other as Sexual Beings17:10 Solutions to Rekindle Passion24:25 Creating Polarity and Space in RelationshipsTakeawaysBeing social and charismatic can enhance personal interactions.Compliments can boost confidence and encourage social engagement.Flirting can be a playful exploration of attraction.Open relationships can provide new perspectives on partnership.Seeing a partner's sexuality can be a turn-on for some.The idea of attraction from others can enhance relationship dynamics.Embracing one's own sexuality is important for personal growth.Social interactions can lead to deeper connections.Understanding the nuances of attraction is key in relationships.Exploring boundaries in relationships can lead to fulfillment.Keywordssocial dynamics, charisma, open relationships, sexuality, flirting, compliments, partner attractionThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

Apply for Founding Member status and help shape Heather's new Intimacy Collective program --> https://forms.gle/hyLr3LSoxadrvusM6EPISODE SUMMARYIn this conversation, Shannon Curtis shares her profound journey of healing from sexual trauma, emphasizing the importance of reclaiming personal power, understanding shame, and fostering intimacy. She discusses her experiences with trauma, the role of forgiveness, and the significance of body awareness in healing. Shannon also highlights the need for curiosity in recognizing signs of trauma and the importance of connecting with nature. Through her work, she aims to empower others to find their authentic selves and heal from their past experiences.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to Healing Sexual Trauma02:00 Shannon's Personal Journey with Trauma05:58 Understanding Shame and Its Impact10:08 The Role of Forgiveness in Healing12:16 Teaching the Next Generation16:26 The Importance of Body Awareness19:40 Healing Through Connection with Nature22:32 The Power of Intuition in Healing25:33 Finding Your Path to Healing29:26 The Journey of Self-Discovery33:41 Reclaiming Power in Relationships38:22 Recognizing Signs of Trauma42:58 The Importance of Curiosity in Healing47:28 How to Work with Shannon CurtisKEYWORDSsexual trauma, healing, intimacy, forgiveness, body awareness, empowerment, personal growth, trauma signs, self-discovery, coachingThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

In this conversation, Heather Shannon discusses the themes of loss, heartbreak, and the resilience of the human spirit. Drawing from her personal experiences, she emphasizes the importance of finding inner security and embracing vulnerability in relationships. Heather shares insights on how to navigate grief, the significance of community, and the necessity of self-reflection in fostering intimacy and connection with others.TakeawaysWe are wired to find balance and resilience.It's crucial to change the narrative we tell ourselves about loss.Life is short; we should seize opportunities for love and connection.Heartbreak is inevitable, but we can choose how to respond.All relationships eventually end, but that shouldn't deter us from starting them.Embracing vulnerability is essential for deeper connections.Grief can slow us down and remind us of what matters.Building inner security helps us to love more openly.Understanding our parts can aid in healing from loss.Community support is vital during times of grief.Chapters00:00 Navigating Loss and Heartbreak05:16 Finding Inner Security and Resilience10:33 Embracing Vulnerability in Relationships15:32 Understanding and Healing Through GriefKeywordsloss, heartbreak, resilience, vulnerability, relationships, grief, inner security, personal growth, intimacy, healingThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

Go deep on how to be a great lover! It's not the surface level stuff that we often get hung up on that makes someone "good at sex." Learn about the importance of presence and attunement for higher quality sex and better connection.---Curious about coaching with Heather? Start out with her quickie assessment so you can identify your patterns and get an action plan to change them. The Quickie For Partners---Keywords: Better sex, sex therapy, sex coach, better intimacy, attunement, listening, paying attentionThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

SummaryJoin me and amazing guest Emily Nagoski as we discuss the complexities of maintaining intimacy in long-term relationships. Emily uses the metaphor of a garden to illustrate how sexuality requires ongoing care and attention. We cover the importance of communication, overcoming shame, and understanding the impact of upbringing on sexual expression. Emily emphasizes the need for playfulness and adaptability in sexual relationships, as well as the significance of scheduling intimacy to prioritize connection. And you'll especially love emily's floorplan concept for accessing lust when it feels far away.Want more?Grab Emily's Books Below:Come As You AreCome As You Are WorkbookCome TogetherBurnoutKeywords - long-term relationships, sexuality, communication, shame, gender roles, emotional health, intimacy, pleasure, responsive desire, sexual connectionThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

Join us at The Desire Revival to get past low or mismatched libidos keeping your sex life stuck. Register here: https://TheDesireRevival.comIn this episode, I introduce the Target Zone Framework, a tool designed to help people evaluate their relationships based on two key dimensions: spark energy and home energy. I define both dimensions with an emphasis on the idea that home energy is foundational for emotional safety and intimacy. We'll talk about how to assess current relationships, the significance of communication and emotional intelligence, and the need for novelty and playfulness to maintain attraction. Download your Target Zone Guide here --> https://heather-shannon.mykajabi.com/offers/7rmnFfbjThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

Got mismatched libidos? We can fix that! Grab your free ticket to The Desire Revival at https://TheDesireRevival.com. ~In this episode, join Heather and guest Sexologist, Amy Rowan, to explore Amy and her husband's exciting evolution from a mostly vanilla sex life to having "hard points" in the basement dungeon for rope suspension. Learn how trust, vulnerability and emotional intimacy led to sex life 2.0 for Amy and her hubby despite cancer and 3 kids and how you can create this dynamic yourself.Is it time to explore kink and BDSM in your own relationship? Tune in and find out!Keywordskink, intimacy, relationships, sex therapy, vulnerability, trust, communication, pleasure, sexologist, suburban intimacyThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

In this episode, Heather discusses the concept of mental foreplay, emphasizing non-touch ways to get in the mood for sex. Chapters00:00 Exploring Mental Foreplay09:40 The Power of Laughter and Fun13:41 Physical Activity and Its Impact16:46 Grooming and Style for Confidence18:29 The Allure of Availability and IndependenceSurveyOur Ask A Sex Therapist Podcast survey is still underway! Help the show improve and get a $10 Amazon gift card as a thank you for your time. Take the survey now --> https://AskASexTherapistPodcast.comP.S. So sorry for the delay in uploading this episode. We experienced major glitches with our hosting platform and tried 3 other platforms to get this episode to you. It seems the issue was related to the internet provider and we needed to use a VPN to get around it--other people have apparently reported similar issues!Keywordsmental foreplay, emotional intimacy, sexual attraction, relationship dynamics, self-perception, physical activity, novelty, grooming, emotional closeness, relationship adviceThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

Quit trying to seduce the woman in your life using your own assumptions and start approaching her based on her sexual personality type. You'll thank us for the results! In this episode, Susan Bratton (our most downloaded guest), shares 4 sexual personality types and how to strategically approach women who fall into each category. You're in for a treat!Please excuse a few audio glitches in this episode--it sounded smoothe when recording but there was a glitch in the software. We wanted to share it anyways because of the great content!Don't forget to take the Ask A Sex Therapist podcast survey at https://AskASexTherapistPodcast.com! As a thank you for everyone who takes it, we will email you a $10 Amazon card. This is for a limited time only, so now's the time : )This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

Hey Friends! Please take this podcast survey and accept a $10 Amazon gift card as a token of my appreciation: https://forms.gle/oRqyaTokxxumnhy47The show is only going to be getting better : )Thanks, HeatherThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

Join Heather and NourishDocs founder Amita Sharma for a better understanding of how menopause impacts your mental health, marriage and sex life and what you can do to help yourself have a smooth transition in this phase of life. Chapters:00:00 Breaking the Silence on Menopause02:39 Personal Journeys Through Perimenopause05:39 Understanding Symptoms and Their Impact08:14 Navigating Hormonal Changes11:18 The Role of Education and Advocacy14:00 Building a Supportive Community17:02 Exploring Treatment Options20:04 The Importance of Self-Care22:49 Addressing Sexual Health and Relationships25:32 Holistic Approaches to Wellness28:32 The Future of Menopause ConversationsFind more about Heather and her services at https://HeatherShannon.coCheck out NourishDoc here! https://www.nourishdoc.com/Keywords: menopause, perimenopause, PMS, hormone therapy, women's health, holistic wellness, self-care, community support, sexual health, educationThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

In this episode, Heather guides listeners how to bring a sense of adventure and exploration to their sex lives.Understanding Your Sexual IdentityHow to differentiate between what you think you "should" want versus what actually excites youRecognizing that preferences can evolve and change over timeMoving past shame or judgment around desires that feel "different"Communication and Exploration with PartnersHow to have conversations about fantasies and boundaries. Yes, no, maybe list. Creating safe spaces for vulnerability and honestyNavigating mismatched desires or comfort levelsSolo Exploration TechniquesMindful masturbation and body awareness exercisesFantasy journaling or explorationUsing erotica, audio content, or visual materials as discovery toolsPractical Adventure PlanningSetting up "sexual dates" with yourself or a partner specifically for exploration. Kissing lab. Sensory night. Positions month. 10 toys to try. Create a kissing lab (pecks, open mouth, long and deep, short and repeated, lots of tongue, little tongue, trace partner's lips with tongue, teasing and breathing while keeping mouths close to each other)Creating the right environment (physical space, mindset, timing)How to debrief and integrate new discoveriesOvercoming Common RoadblocksPerformance anxiety when trying new things. Religious or cultural conditioning around sexualityBody image concerns that limit explorationFear of rejection or judgment from partnersBuilding Sexual ConfidenceCelebrating small discoveries and winsDeveloping a growth mindset around sexualityLearning to advocate for your needs and desiresCheck out Heather's Amazon Storefront for Books and Tools to Help You Explore! Heather Shannon, LCPC's Amazon PageWe Should Try It Couples Quiz - We Should Try It - online sex questionnaire for couplesYes, No, Maybe List - https://www.sexedwithbyrd.com/yesnomaybelistfreebieThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

Do you sometimes wonder if porn and/or masturbation are having a negative impact on your actual sex life?In this episode, Heather Shannon interviews Aaron Frazen, a sex and relationship coach, who shares his transformative journey from a successful tech entrepreneur to a passionate advocate for sexual health and intimacy. They delve into the complexities of masturbation and porn, discussing common misconceptions and the emotional signals behind sexual challenges. Aaron emphasizes the importance of understanding one's desires and urges, offering practical tools for listeners to cultivate a healthier relationship with their sexuality.Aaron Frazin's Website - https://www.aaronfrazin.com/ Book The Quickie Coaching Package with Heather - Get Unstuck In Your Sex Life!This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

Heather discusses the importance of emotional intimacy and vulnerability in relationships, particularly in the context of sexual connections. She shares personal experiences and insights on how being vulnerable can enhance relationships, both romantic and platonic. The discussion also covers the connection between emotional and physical intimacy, the significance of communication, and practical steps to foster vulnerability in relationships.This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

In this conversation, Heather Shannon and Jessi Marino explore the concept of embodiment, discussing its significance in personal healing, relationships, and sexuality. Jessi shares her personal journey from dissociation to finding home in her body, emphasizing the importance of presence and the capacity to feel a wide range of emotions. They delve into societal teachings that view the body as a machine, the role of rituals and magic in daily life, and how cultivating a deeper connection with oneself can enhance intimacy and resilience. The discussion highlights the interplay between joy, pain, and the natural world, encouraging listeners to embrace their embodied experiences.Find out more about Jessi - https://www.instagram.com/jessimagickBook "The Quickie", a mini coaching package, with Heather - https://heather-shannon.mykajabi.com/quickieThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

TRANSFORM YOUR SEX LIFE & HAPPINESSApply for a free Intimacy Breakthrough Call to learn about Heather’s Pathway to Passion coaching method: https://heathershannon.co/new-clients/In this episode of 'Ask a Sex Therapist,' I welcome Caitlin V, a renowned sex and relationship coach. Caitlin specializes in helping men with erectile dysfunction, performance anxiety, and premature ejaculation, and works with clients worldwide to resolve mismatched libidos and enhance sexual confidence. She shares insights from her journey, her viral content on YouTube, and her mission to foster a sex-positive world where pleasure is prioritized. We dive into her unique approach to sexual health, blending personal experience with evidence-based science, and discuss her new TV show, "Good Sex" on Discovery + and Max. Caitlin also introduces "Groove Thing," a new product aimed at enhancing pleasure, and we talk about its potential impact on the landscape of sexual enjoyment. You won't want to miss this one!About Our Guest:Caitlin V is a leading sex and relationship coach with a focus on men's sexual health and pleasure. A former sexual health researcher and policy analyst, she gained significant recognition through her viral videos on female pleasure. With millions of views and nearly a million subscribers on YouTube, she is a prominent voice in the field. Her expertise is further amplified through her TV show, "Good Sex," available on Discovery + and Max. Caitlin is dedicated to creating a sex-positive environment where pleasure is paramount.Connect with Caitlin V.Website: caitlinvneal.comInstagram: caitlinvnealGroove Thing: trygroovething.com/caitlin (Sign up for updates)Book A Quickie (micro coaching package) - Get Unstuck In Your Sex Life!Website - https://HeatherShannon.co RATE & REVIEW US!Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here. https://podfollow.com/AskASexTherapistThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp