Here Comes Sunshine with Sarah Valentine

I’m Sarah Valentine, a Clinical Sexologist and Certified Life Coach. Here Comes Sunshine is your weekly Wednesday dose of mindful encouragement, real talk, and positive support for men in the second half of life. Each episode is here to help you find confidence, connection, and motivation to level up your life and have a truly kick-ass day. Thanks for doing life with this sensual ninja, proud GenXer, and loveable dork. Learn more at www.intimateconsciousness.com To book a session or explore my offerings, visit https://stan.store/the_sarah_valentine

S4 | E32 The Wintering of a Man Series Part 2 | Carrying Everything Quietly

This week, we explore the quiet loneliness many men carry in silence. If you have ever felt unseen or emotionally alone even when surrounded by others, this episode will feel familiar. Learn how to create meaningful connections without feeling weak, needy, or exposed.If this episode spoke to you, I’d love to hear from you. You can email me at sarah@intimateconsciousness.com.You can also find me on Substack, where I share weekly musings and the video version of this podcast, or if you want to go deeper, book a private session at stan.store/the_sarah_valentine.You can listen to Here Comes Sunshine on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform.Thanks for being here, for growing, and for showing up for yourself. I’ll see you next week.

11-12
08:39

S4 | E31 The Wintering of a Man Series Part 1 | The Winter Shift

A four-episode November series for men ages 40 plus navigating identity, loneliness, relationships, purpose, and emotional endurance as the seasons change.Today, we explore the emotional and biological shift that happens in men as we move into the colder, darker months. If you are feeling tired, less motivated, disconnected, or irritable, nothing is wrong with you. Your body is responding to a seasonal shift. Learn how to support your mood, energy, and sense of self with simple and powerful adjustments that help you thrive through winter rather than collapse under it.Contect with Sarah:Video version of the podcast at sarahvalentinemusings.substack.com You can also explore my coaching offerings and resources at https://stan.store/the_sarah_valentine.

11-05
11:18

S4 | E30 Breaking Free from Passive Aggression

This week on Here Comes Sunshine, we’re diving deep into a topic many men (and women *raises own hand*) struggle with, but rarely talk about: passive-aggressive behavior. From brooding silence and simmering resentment to sarcasm, excuse-making, or blame-shifting, these patterns can quietly sabotage connection and happiness.I’ll walk you through what’s really behind these behaviors and, more importantly, how to shift them. You’ll learn practical ways to speak your truth, set boundaries without guilt, and build emotional strength that leads to healthier communication and real confidence.Because when you stop hiding behind frustration or hurtful sarcasm, you start showing up as the man you’re meant to be.Contact Sarah:Email: sarah@intimateconsciousness.comCoaching, guides & more: https://stan.store/the_sarah_valentine

10-29
21:26

S4 | E29 Understanding How Depression Shows Up in Men: A Checklist for Symptoms

Are you feeling out of sorts and wondering if it is more than just the blues? In today’s episode of Here Comes Sunshine, I will dive into the often-overlooked ways depression can appear in men, not just emotionally, but physically and behaviorally. From irritability and exhaustion to changes in habits or drive, men often experience depression differently from women, and it can be easy to miss the signs. Join me as I talk about the symptoms, normalize the conversation, and take the first steps toward healing and self-awareness. You are NOT alone, and I am here for YOU!Want to watch this episode on video? Subscribe to my Substack: sarahvalentinemusings.substack.comContact Sarah:Email: sarah@intimateconsciousness.comCoaching, guides & more: https://stan.store/the_sarah_valentine

10-22
11:50

S4 | E28 A Listener’s Question About Porn, Pleasure, and Balance

In this week’s episode of Here Comes Sunshine, I’m answering an honest and important listener question: “What if I don’t want to quit porn, but I want to make sure I’m healthy?”This conversation is all about awareness, not shame. As someone who once worked as a spicy content creator before becoming a Clinical Sexologist, I understand both sides of this conversation deeply. We’ll talk about what healthy porn use actually looks like, what the science says about dopamine and the brain, and how to stay connected to real intimacy, whether that’s with a partner or with yourself.There’s no judgment here, only truth, compassion, and tools to help you find balance and deeper connection in your life.You can listen to Here Comes Sunshine on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform. Watch the video version on Substack.If this episode resonates, reach out for a private session or to share your story at sarah@intimateconsciousness.com, or visit https://stan.store/the_sarah_valentine to connect.

10-15
12:54

S4 | E27 Finding Your Tribe Later in Life: The Power of Community for Men Over 45

In today’s episode of Here Comes Sunshine with Sarah Valentine, we’re diving into the power of community, especially for men in their 40s, 50s, and beyond. After my own divorce, I had to rebuild my life and find my people again, and it wasn’t easy. Today, I want to share what I learned about connection, belonging, and the courage it takes to put yourself out there later in life. If you’ve been feeling isolated, unsure where to start, or like your best connections are behind you, this conversation is for you. We’ll talk about why community is essential for emotional and physical health, how to start building one that fits your life now, and simple ways to start finding your tribe again.Video version of the podcast at sarahvalentinemusings.substack.com You can also explore my coaching offerings and resources at https://stan.store/the_sarah_valentine.

10-08
10:06

Gooning, Porn, and Intimacy: Breaking Free Without Shame

In this episode of Here Comes Sunshine, I’m talking about something a lot of men in their 40s, 50s, and beyond struggle with but rarely say out loud, gooning, or getting lost in porn, and how it impacts real intimacy with a partner.There’s no judgment here. Many of you have known me since my days as a creator on spicy platforms, and I want you to know, I get it. Back then, I was acting out my own trauma drama, and looking for connection in ways that didn’t serve me. So when I say I understand how easy it is to get hooked, I mean it.We’ll explore how you can begin to shift back toward real, meaningful intimacy, without shame and without losing hope.If you’re ready to move from screen-based escape into connection, this one’s for you.Watch the video version and subscribe for weekly encouragement here: https://sarahvalentinemusings.substack.comListen on your favorite podcast platform: Here Comes SunshineBook a one-on-one coaching session: https://stan.store/the_sarah_valentineEmail me directly: sarah@intimateconsciousness.com

10-01
17:32

S4 | E25 Bamboozled, Broken, and Better: Finding Yourself Again in Midlife

Have you ever felt bamboozled by love and swept up in someone else’s world only to lose yourself in the process? In this week’s episode of Here Comes Sunshine, I open up about my own journey through divorce, toxic relationships, and the lessons I learned about identity, mental health, and slowing down in the second half of life.This one is especially for men over 45 who are navigating relationships, life challenges, and the roadblocks life throws at you. Together we’ll look at:How to spot red flags before it’s too lateWhy your body often knows the truth before your mindThe danger of living someone else’s dream instead of your ownHow slowing down in relationships can actually bring you more peace and confidenceIf you’re ready to live unapologetically, on your own terms, this episode is for you.Watch the video version and get weekly encouragement on Substack: https://sarahvalentinemusings.substack.comWant to connect one-on-one? Book a session: https://stan.store/the_sarah_valentineEmail me with topics you’d love to hear discussed: sarah@intimateconsciousness.comThanks for being here, and let’s keep doing life together.

09-24
23:12

S4 | E24 Stronger, Healthier, Wiser: Taking Care of Yourself in the Second Half of Life

In this episode of Here Comes Sunshine, I’m talking about the importance of taking care of your health as we age, especially for my Gen X men out there. We’ll dive into the essentials: sleep, nutrition, stress relief, and exercise, and why these habits matter even more in the second half of life. This isn’t about perfection or chasing six-packs; it’s about energy, confidence, and longevity so you can enjoy what’s ahead. Plus, I’ll share some simple action steps you can start today to feel better in your body and your life.Want to watch this podcast (yes, me on video!), subscribe to my substack, and get my podcast and more delivered to your email: https://sarahvalentinemusings.substack.comContact me at: sarah@intimateconsciousness.com

09-17
18:33

S4 | E23 Sarah Unscripted: Don't Speak

Today, I'm sharing my own experience with communication issues. I am trying my best, too!Support & Resources:Coaching + tools: stan.store/the_sarah_valentineSubscribe to my newsletter: sarahvalentinemusings.substack.comEmail: sarah@intimateconsciousness.com

07-30
12:35

S4 | E22 Sarah Unscripted Part Three: Like the Weather

Are you going to listen to my patio chill rambles again? Have I told you lately how awesome you are? Thanks!Support & Resources:Coaching + habit tools: stan.store/the_sarah_valentineSubscribe to receive this podcast in your email: sarahvalentinemusings.substack.comEmail me: sarah@intimateconsciousness.com

07-28
10:45

S4 | E21 Sarah Unscripted Part Two: Run Like Hell

You are actually going to listen to part two... I do heart you so! Thanks for listening!

07-23
10:45

S4 | E20 Sarah Unscripted Part One: Like a Blister in the Sun

Sarah Unscripted & Unedited. Join me on my patio on a beautiful summer day, as I let my thoughts drift like a butterfly, moving from flower to flower.Thanks for hanging out with me! More parts to come!

07-21
10:56

S4 | E19 Stop Chasing, Start Attracting: How to Build Confidence Without Faking It

It’s time to stop performing and start attracting. In this episode, I’m speaking directly to the man who’s tired of chasing and tired of guessing what women want, tired of pretending to be someone he’s not.Real confidence isn’t loud. It’s rooted. It’s steady. And it begins when you start keeping promises to yourself. We’ll dive into what makes a man magnetic (it’s not money or muscles), how to shift from impressing to connecting, and how to show up in a way that feels true.You don’t need to become someone else to be loved. You just need to become more of who you really are. Let’s talk about how.Support & Resources:Coaching + habit tools: stan.store/the_sarah_valentineSubscribe to get this podcast in your email: sarahvalentinemusings.substack.comEmail me: sarah@intimateconsciousness.com

07-16
11:11

S4 | E18 Lonely, Not Broken: What Your Loneliness Is Trying to Teach You

Loneliness can feel heavy, but it doesn’t mean you’re broken. In today’s episode, I’m inviting you to look at your loneliness not as a problem to fix, but as a message to explore. Whether you’re divorced, single, or simply feeling disconnected, this one’s for you. We’ll talk about the difference between being alone and being lonely, how to listen to what your soul might be craving, and why your loneliness could be the doorway to deeper connection, starting with yourself.If you’ve been feeling that quiet ache, know this: you’re not alone. You are seen, you are worthy, and you’re doing better than you think.Support & Resources:Coaching + habit tools: stan.store/the_sarah_valentineSubscribe for podcast delivered to your email: sarahvalentinemusings.substack.comPlease email me: sarah@intimateconsciousness.com

07-14
08:47

S4 | E17 How to Make a Habit Stick (And Break the Ones That Don’t Serve You)

You don’t need more discipline, you need a better system. In this follow-up episode inspired by Atomic Habits, we dive into the science behind behavior change and explore the four keys to building lasting habits and the reverse formula for breaking the ones that are keeping you stuck. You’ll learn how to make new habits obvious, attractive, easy, and satisfying, and how to design your life to support the person you’re becoming.This one’s for anyone who wants change that actually lasts.You’ll learn:The 4 laws of habit formation (and how to apply them today)A gentler approach to breaking bad habitsWhy “don’t miss twice” is a game-changing mindset shiftSupport & Resources:Coaching + habit tools: stan.store/the_sarah_valentineSubscribe for weekly reflections and this podcast sent to your email: sarahvalentinemusings.substack.comEmail me: sarah@intimateconsciousness.com

07-09
08:27

S4 | E16 Small Habits, Big Shifts. Why Tiny Changes Matter.

Big changes don’t start with willpower; they start with one small step. In this episode of Here Comes Sunshine, we explore key takeaways from James Clear’s Atomic Habits, including why tiny changes are more powerful (and sustainable) than big goals. You’ll learn how to shift your identity, create habits that stick, and build real momentum by doing less, not more. Whether you're trying to develop confidence, consistency, or just get unstuck, this episode will help you start small and keep going.You’ll learn:Why identity is the real foundation for habit changeHow to shrink your goals to something unskippableSimple ways to design your environment for successSupport & Resources:Coaching + tools: stan.store/the_sarah_valentineSubscribe to my newsletter and get this podcast delivered to your email: sarahvalentinemusings.substack.comEmail: sarah@intimateconsciousness.com

07-07
08:36

S4 | E15 Reclaiming the Main Character

Have you ever felt like an extra in your own life, watching from the sidelines, downplaying your voice, or shrinking to stay safe? Let's discuss rewriting the stories we tell ourselves and explore what it means to reclaim your main character energy, not from ego, but from truth. Together, we’ll explore how social conditioning, comparison, and outdated relationship dynamics can lead us into roles we never intended to take on. I’ll share personal moments of when I forgot I was the lead in my own story, and what helped me step back into that power. We’ll also dig into the psychology behind why we defer to others, and how to start showing up differently today.This is your reminder: You’ve always been the main character.You just might need to rewrite the script.Resources & Support:Newsletter & reflections: sarahvalentinemusings.substack.comCoaching tools & offers: stan.store/the_sarah_valentineContact me: sarah@intimateconsciousness.com

07-02
09:33

S4 | E14 Who Told You That?

Ever stop to wonder where that voice in your head came from? The one that says you’re not good at something, not safe, not capable? Today, I share a personal story, and we delve into the roots of those old beliefs, asking the powerful question: Who told you that?Sometimes it’s an ex, a parent, a coach, or even a joke that wasn’t funny. However, when we hear something repeatedly, especially from someone we once trusted, we begin to accept it as truth. Today, I share one of my own personal stories, along with insights from psychology and neuroscience about how these messages take hold, and how to begin letting them go.Want to go deeper?Subscribe to my newsletter (hopefully soon) on Substack: sarahvalentinemusings.substack.comFind coaching tools and resources at: stan.store/the_sarah_valentineContact me: sarah@intimateconsciousness.com

06-30
08:33

S4 | E13 Why Do Things Feel Off Lately? Understanding the Glitch in Your Mind.

Are you feeling more forgetful, reactive, or emotionally flat lately? You’re not broken, you might just be caught in what Chase Hughes calls “The Glitch.” Watch the YouTube Here: https://youtu.be/wsF3REbr-44?si=kKGnRRgERH6su8vAIn this episode of Here Comes Sunshine, we explore why so many of us feel off right now, what’s happening in our minds and nervous systems, and how to reclaim clarity in a world always demanding our attention.You’ll get:Grounding questions to help you reconnectA 7-day clarity check-in challengeSimple rituals to reset your nervous systemWe also discuss how the glitch affects intimacy, emotional connection, and how we show up in relationships.Let’s move from fog to freedom, together.Resources:⁠Substack: sarahvalentinemusings.substack.com⁠Stan Store: stan.store/the_sarah_valentine⁠Contact Sarah: ⁠sarah@intimateconsciousness.com⁠

06-25
12:02

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