The Intimacy Inquiry

Exploring Intimacy and Identity with Tonya Todd

Tonya Todd, a Las Vegas-based author, actress, and activist, delves into her life and work in this engaging script. Known for her evocative stories about passionate women, her new book '52 Love' offers bite-sized lessons on intimacy.

Tonya champions marginalized voices and shares her journey from being painfully shy to becoming empowered through acting. She discusses her writing process, the significance of representation in media, and her penchant for vampire literature.

Tonya also reveals her insights on cosplay and the importance of creative resistance. This script...

The Journey of Resilience: Ms. Elite USA 2024 Koya Bakare on Healing and Self-Worth

In this episode, Koya Bakare, Ms Elite United States 2024, shares her incredible journey from trauma to triumph. As a speaker and mindfulness coach, Koya discusses her formative years, her relationship with her mother, and the pivotal role of pageantry in her life. She opens up about overcoming bulimia, suicide attempts, and sexual assault, revealing how these experiences have shaped her mission to empower others. Koya also talks about her spirituality, the importance of self-love, and finding joy in life's simple pleasures. This deeply moving...

Navigating Modern Love: Insights from Dating Coach Noah Heymann

In this episode, Andrew interviews Noah Heymann, a dating and relationship coach who helps individuals find love through his website datecoach.com and Instagram handle datecoach.com.

Noah's expertise covers areas such as in-person approaches, online dating profiles, communication techniques, body confidence, and intimacy. He shares his journey from a closeted teenager to a full-time coach, emphasizing the influence of past experiences on current dating behaviors.

Noah also discusses the importance of candid communication in relationships, different dynamics in online dating for various genders...

Unlocking Lasting Love with Relationship Coach Bernando Mendez

In this episode, we sit down with Bernando Mendez, a renowned relationship and dating coach who guides women globally to lasting love by understanding the masculine mindset, building self-worth, and creating genuine romantic connections.

Bernando shares insights from his own transformative journey and coaching experiences, detailing how he helps women release limiting beliefs and attain dating clarity. We delve into his background, his personal struggles, and his professional shift from entrepreneurship to relationship coaching.

Bernando also discusses the importance of self-love, navigating modern relationship dynamics...

Exploring Energy, Spirituality, and Personal Empowerment with Aude Firmin

In this episode, Andrew engages in an insightful conversation with Aude Firmin, a London-based spiritual mentor, intuitive business coach, and reiki practitioner. Aude shares her journey from dealing with personal trauma and societal conditioning to emerging as a guide for others on their spiritual and self-discovery paths.

She delves into her youth, experiences in the tech industry, and how she integrates spiritual wisdom with practical guidance. The discussion covers topics such as healing from past traumas, understanding energy and spirituality, challenges and boundaries in her work...

Unlocking Intimacy: Amy Rowan's Journey and Insights on Sexology

In this insightful episode, board-certified sexologist Amy Rowan shares her personal and professional journey in the realm of sex and intimacy. Amy, a cancer survivor and mother of three, opens up about her early fascination with vinegar, how her upbringing influenced her career, and the pivotal moments in her discovery of sexology.

She emphasizes the importance of understanding one's body, communication in relationships, and the role of pleasure in sexual experiences. Amy also delves into her battle with cancer and how it affected her sense of...

Exploring Pleasure and Sexuality with Suzannah Weiss

In this revealing conversation, Suzannah Weiss, a certified sex educator, sex and love coach, and writer, discusses her journey from dealing with teenage insecurities and body image issues to becoming an advocate for feminist sexuality and ethical non-monogamy.

She shares insights from her books 'Subjectified' and 'Eve's Blessing,' and her experiences with psychedelics, orgasmic birth, and OnlyFans. Suzannah emphasizes the importance of communication in relationships, redefining pleasure, and the potential of psychedelics in sexual healing.

The discussion also touches on societal norms around sexuality, the...

Creating Inclusive Wellness Spaces: A Conversation with Dr. Syd Young

Dr. Syd Young, founder of Out Wellness in Austin, Texas, discusses the importance of creating inclusive, queer, and trans-focused wellness spaces. They share their personal journey from being a competitive tennis player to becoming a physical therapist and advocate for trans rights.

Dr. Young elaborates on the challenges faced by marginalized groups in traditional healthcare environments and the transformative mission behind Out Wellness. The interview covers topics including the impact of body image in sports, societal biases against larger bodies, and the significance of providing...

Navigating Intimacy and Sex Therapy with Keri Green

In this episode, licensed marriage and family therapist, Keri Green, discusses her journey into sex therapy, drawing from over 20 years of experience. She shares personal stories, details her motivation for entering the field, and emphasizes the importance of communication and self-care.

Keri explores topics like mismatched sexual desire among couples, the impact of early sexual experiences, and the societal taboo surrounding discussions about sex. She provides insights into ethical non-monogamy, the potential issues of sex and porn addiction, and the significance of intimacy in relationships. Throughout, Keri...

Exploring Heart-Centered Healing and Divine Connection with Monica Bermudez

In this episode, Monica Bermudez, a heart-centered spiritual coach and energy healer, shares her transformational journey and the intricacies of her work through Sacred Heart Awakenings.

Focusing on helping empathic women and high-achievers reclaim their inner power, Monica discusses quantum energy healing, intuitive insight, and ancient wisdom as tools for overcoming grief and emotional blocks.

Delving into her teenage years and personal awakening, she outlines the importance of self-love, the integration of divine feminine energy, and the profound healing roles of nature and intimacy...

Navigating Intimacy and Emotional Healing with Wendi Dumbroff

In this episode, licensed professional counselor Wendi Dumbroff discusses her journey and commitment to helping individuals and couples with their intimacy and communication issues. She emphasizes the importance of creating a non-judgmental, safe environment for emotional healing.

Wendi shares insights on the pervasive impact of shame on sexual well-being and highlights the significance of normalizing open conversations about desires and fantasies in relationships. Additionally, she discusses how redefining sex, understanding grief, and overcoming societal norms can foster healthier intimate connections. Wendi also touches on the growing interest...

From Trauma to Triumph: Anu Verma's Journey of Resilience and Healing

In this episode, Anu Verma, founder of Victim to Victor, shares her inspiring journey from childhood abuse to becoming a fierce advocate for survivors. Through her bestselling memoir and podcast, Anu combines personal experiences with professional expertise in mental health, bodywork, and trauma recovery. She discusses the challenges of acceptance, the power of forgiveness, and the importance of intimacy in healing relationships. Anu's story is a powerful testament to resilience, self-worth, and the transformative power of holistic healing.

00:00 Introduction to Anu Verma and Victim...

Exploring Sexual Health and Pleasure with Dr. Susan Milstein

In this episode, Dr. Susan Milstein, a renowned health education specialist, certified sexologist, and co-host of the podcast 'Unzipping Taboos,' shares insights from her extensive career.

Dr. Sue discusses the challenges and breakthroughs in sexual health education, both in her formative years and in professional life. She highlights the critical role of conversations around intimacy, pleasure, and healthy relationships, emphasizing the need for comprehensive sex education.

Dr. Sue also delves into the evolving landscape of sexuality, the impact of AI and digital trends...

Understanding Sexuality: A Conversation with Dr. Stephanie Hunter Jones PhD

This episode features an insightful discussion with Dr. Stephanie Hunter Jones, a clinical sexologist, relationship therapist, and intimacy advisor based in California.

Dr. Jones shares her experiences growing up in a repressive environment and how she overcame those challenges to become an expert in human sexuality. The conversation delves into topics such as the importance of self-acceptance, the difference between intimacy and sex, the effects of societal norms on women's sexuality, and the role of fantasies and role play in enriching sexual experiences.

...

Journey of Self-Discovery: Ava Pikul on Tantra, Healing, and Embodiment

In this episode, Ava Pikul delves into her transformative journey from yoga instructor to authentic tantra practitioner. Ava shares the profound life lessons she learned from her time as an erotic dancer and her deep immersion into tantra and spiritual practices.

Initiated into a Tibetan tantric Buddhist lineage, she now integrates clinical expertise with sacred embodiment to offer a holistic approach to healing and self-worth. Ava discusses the importance of understanding one's sexuality, overcoming shame, and the significance of deep intimate connections.

She...

Navigating Life's Complexities: A Deep Dive into Grief and Resilience with Edy Nathan

Edy Nathan, a licensed and certified sex therapist with extensive training in EMDR, hypnotherapy, and Family Systems, discusses her approach to understanding and living alongside grief.

With decades of experience, she helps individuals navigate their pain with self-compassion and resilience. Nathan, an expert in grief and sexual grief, talks about the significance of viewing grief as a dance of self-discovery rather than a linear process.

The conversation explores the developmental and traumatic aspects of grief, the concept of sexual grief...

Shattering Taboos: Dr. Kelly Barron on Menopause and Empowerment

In this episode, Dr. Kelly Barron, host of 'The Kellfire Show,' discusses her mission to revolutionize the perception of menopause by empowering women to break free from societal taboos and stereotypes.

She shares her personal journey, from her upbringing in Long Island and dealing with a traumatic assault in her twenties, to becoming an advocate for women's health and empowerment.

Dr. Barron emphasizes the importance of fitness, nutrition, and self-care, and stresses the significance of communicating openly about menopause and sexual health.

Gigi Patsy: Unveiling the Realities of Online Adult Content Creation and Sex Work

Gigi Patsy, a British online adult content creator and call girl, shares her candid insights into the world of sex work, her journey, and the stigmas surrounding the industry. Gigi uses VivaStreet https://www.vivastreet.co.uk/escort/gb to allow potential clients to reach out to her.

Recognized for her work by Paddle Magazine and Snap Awards, Gigi delves into her past, discussing her upbringing, self-confidence, and how she transitioned into the adult industry. Balancing her work between content creation and...

Navigating Love and Trauma: A Conversation with Riana Milne

In this episode, Andrew interviews Riana Milne, a globally certified life, dating, and relationship coach specializing in trauma recovery and cultivating healthy love.

They discuss Riana's background, including her challenging childhood, and how it shaped her career in trauma counseling and relationship coaching. She shares her insights on the importance of emotional health, communication in relationships, and her unique approach to coaching. Riana also provides practical advice on dating, dealing with trauma, and maintaining long-term relationships.

The conversation delves into her personal experiences, her...

Unlocking Intimacy and Passion with Susan Bratton

In this insightful episode, we sit down with Susan Bratton, intimacy expert and co-founder of Personal Life Media, Inc. Susan, a widely acclaimed author of 34 books including 'Sexual Soulmates' and 'Relationship Magic,' shares her journey and expertise on achieving lifelong intimacy and passion.

From discussing the importance of self-appreciation to revealing techniques for maintaining a sexual connection well into older age, Susan delves into practical advice such as orgasmic cross-training and the impact of censorship on sexuality education.

She emphasizes the importance of understanding and...

Unlocking the Power Within: The Gohddess Method with Bel di Lorenzo

Bel di Lorenzo, founder and CEO of Gohddess, discusses her innovative methodology teaching women vaginal gymnastics to enhance sexual pleasure and reconnect with ancient feminine power.

She describes her personal journey from a sexually curious but inexperienced teenager to a leading figure in sexual wellness. Bel shares her research and development of the Gohddess Method, including the physiological and psychological benefits, particularly for women postpartum, during menopause, or those recovering from sexual trauma.

Her insights delve into the importance of pelvic floor...

Navigating Midlife Intimacy with Karen Bigman: From Taboos to Truths

In this episode, Karen Bigman, a certified sex education life coach and host of the podcast 'Taboos to Truth', delves into the complexities of midlife intimacy. Discussing her own experiences with navigating intimacy after divorce, sexual exploration, and the challenges of menopause,

Karen offers valuable insights into maintaining a fulfilling sex life after 50. She emphasizes the importance of communication in relationships, exploring personal desires, and overcoming societal taboos. Karen also touches on the significance of ethical non-monogamy, body empowerment, and the transformative potential of new...

Reimagining Sexual Education with Lauren Elise Rogers

In this episode, we delve into a candid conversation with Lauren Elise Rogers, a certified holistic sexuality educator and embodied intimacy and relationship coach.

Lauren shares her transformative journey from a conservative religious upbringing with no sexual education to becoming a beacon of progressive sex education. She emphasizes dismantling shame, exploring desires, and fostering conscious relationships with sex and oneself.

With her unique approach rooted in equity, embodiment, and truth-telling, Lauren discusses her personal experiences, her thriving business, and the importance of pleasure and curiosity in...

The Journey of Tera Patrick: From Adult Industry Icon to Global Traveler and Wellness Advocate

In this engaging conversation, Tera Patrick, an iconic figure in the adult film industry, shares her life story and current ventures. Tera discusses her early career, beginning with modeling in her teens and later transitioning into adult films in 1999. She reflects on her prolific career, her transition to entrepreneurship, and the numerous accolades she received.

The discussion delves into the cultural impact of porn, the challenges of dating while in the industry, and the evolution towards self-producing platforms. Now residing...

From Amish Life to Empowerment: Naomi Swartzentruber's Remarkable Journey

In this episode, Naomi Swartzentruber shares her dramatic transformation from life in the strict Swartzentruber Amish community to achieving independence and self-discovery.

Naomi details her escape at 17, her struggle with addiction, and her unexpected career as an exotic dancer in Las Vegas. She speaks candidly about the challenges she faced, including abusive relationships and substance abuse, and how she eventually found empowerment and peace.

Naomi also discusses her memoir, 'The Amazing Adventures of an Amish Stripper,' her journey to motherhood, and her mission...

Exploring Kink and Self-Acceptance with Amanda Dames

In this episode, Amanda Dames, also known as the Kink Consultant, shares her journey from feeling like a 'weirdo' as a child to embracing her identity as a certified sexologist and kink coach.

Amanda delves into her early experiences with kink, her professional work as a dominatrix, and her mission to create judgment-free spaces for conversations around kink and BDSM. She discusses the importance of aftercare, the challenges of overcoming shame, and the beauty of deep, intimate connections in kink dynamics.

Amanda also shares her experiences...

Rediscovering Sexual Self: A Journey with Samantha Raddock

In this episode, certified sexual intimacy specialist Samantha Raddock shares her transformative journey, from facing cancer to embracing a purpose-driven career in sex education and trauma-informed coaching.

Trained at the Tantra Institute of Integrated Sexuality and Somatica Institute, Samantha combines neuroscience research with holistic body-based modalities to improve sexual health and intimate relationships. She emphasizes the importance of open conversations about sex, consent, and the impacts of pornography.

Samantha also delves into topics such as menopause, non-traditional relationships, and the critical role of self-discovery in...

Transforming Trauma: Sabrina Osso's Journey to Creating Safe Homes

In this episode, Andrew interviews Sabrina Osso, founder and CEO of Osso Safe. Sabrina shares her harrowing childhood experiences of domestic violence and how these experiences shaped her mission to create safer homes.

A professional dancer, TEDx speaker, and real estate agent, Sabrina has turned her pain into power through innovative solutions that integrate education, policy, and real estate to reduce home violence. Sabrina discusses her holistic approach, leveraging dance, and real estate to foster respect and safety in residential properties.

She also addresses...

Lannette West: Embracing Vulnerability, Overcoming Addiction, and Finding Self-Love

In this episode, we delve into the life and journey of Lannette West, best known for her appearances on HBO Max and TLC's 'Milf Manor.' Lannette shares her transformative path from struggling with addiction to finding self-love and peace.

She opens up about her struggles with self-esteem, the importance of vulnerability in achieving true intimacy, and the profound impact of reuniting with her estranged father. Lannette also discusses overcoming her addiction to cocaine and the therapeutic value of speaking openly about stigmatized issues such as...

From Debilitating Anxiety to Holistic Healing: Embracing Authentic Self and Transformational Practices

Rose Leopold shares a deeply personal journey of overcoming severe emotional and physical illnesses that began abruptly at age 15. This journey included experiencing panic attacks, depression, and physical manifestations like migraines and jaw pain.

Through an eight-year struggle, the guest navigates through over four dozen medications, multiple diagnoses including OCD and PTSD, and psychiatric treatments. A turning point occurs with participation in a 12-step program which introduces a new wave of vulnerability and authentic connection.

The narrative delves into explorations of...

Healing Trauma and Embracing Intimacy: Insights from Violet Lange

In this episode, Andrew interviews Violet Lange, a Harvard-educated trauma-informed relationship coach, Reiki master, certified yoga teacher, and founder of Violet Lange Coaching.

Violet shares her journey from a corporate career in chemical engineering, marketing, and consulting to becoming a renowned coach for women seeking deeply loving and passionate relationships. She discusses her personal experiences with trauma, healing, and the importance of integrating mind, body, and spirit.

The conversation delves into emotional resilience, the complexities of intimacy, the role of fantasies and kinks, and...

Rediscovering Authentic Intimacy with Sandy Rose: A Journey from Pain to Pleasure

In this episode, associate psychotherapist and sex and relationship therapist Sandy Rose shares her journey from a reserved childhood to becoming a founder of Sandy Rose Therapy.

She discusses her transformative experiences, including her divorce, and how they led her to explore her authentic self, sensuality, and sexuality. Sandy blends psychodynamic therapy, somatic awareness, and trauma-informed care to help individuals and couples reconnect with their true selves.

The conversation delves into topics such as the importance of communication in intimacy, breaking...

Understanding and Combating Online Predators with Dr. Michael Nuccitelli

In this insightful episode, Dr. Michael Nuccitelli, a New York state licensed psychologist and cyber psychologist, discusses his iPredator concept, a framework to understand and defend against online aggression.

The conversation delves into the types of online aggressors, the psychological impact of cyberbullying, and stalking, and offers practical advice for parents and adults to protect themselves and their loved ones in the digital age.

Dr. Nuccitelli also highlights the significance of digital citizenship, the psychology behind online behaviors, and shares real-life stories from his...

Exploring Intimacy and Healing with Skyeblu Cutchie

In this episode, Skyeblu Cutchie, a spiritual mentor and sexual reclamation coach, shares insights from her journey of overcoming childhood trauma and rediscovering her true self.

She discusses her somatic practices and psycho-sexual coaching methods that help women and couples reconnect with their bodies and reclaim pleasure as a birthright. This conversation covers Skyeblu's formative years on a cattle farm, her struggle with body image, the impact of external influences on sexuality, and the importance of emotional connection in relationships.

Skyeblu emphasizes a 'pleasure first' approach...

The Journey of Self-Discovery and Identity with Amy Herrick PhD

In this enlightening discussion, Amy Herrick PhD, a scientist turned identity guide and transgender advocate, shares her personal journey of understanding and embracing her true identity.

Amy discusses her early feelings of misalignment with her assigned gender, the impact of societal pressures, and her eventual transition. She also explores foundational aspects of identity development and the importance of living authentically. Amy's story is a compelling mix of science, personal experience, and advocacy, aimed at helping others navigate their own identity journeys with empathy and rigor.<...

Bridging Forbidden Topics: From Conservative Roots to Kink and Sexuality Education

In this episode, Lilith Foxx shares their journey from a conservative, immigrant household where sex and sexuality were taboo, to becoming a prominent sexuality educator.

Topics discussed include Lilith's childhood curiosity about sexuality, the lack of sex education in schools, her personal research and experiences, and how a traumatic event led to the kink community.

Lilith also discuss their involvement in the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (ASECT), and her passion for teaching kink, polyamory, and sexual education.

Gigi Patsy: Unveiling the Realities of Online Adult Content Creation and Sex Work

Gigi Patsy, a British online adult content creator and call girl, shares her candid insights into the world of sex work, her journey, and the stigmas surrounding the industry.

Recognized for her work by Paddle Magazine and Snap Awards, Gigi delves into her past, discussing her upbringing, self-confidence, and how she transitioned into the adult industry. Balancing her work between content creation and escorting, Gigi explains her methods for maintaining her mental health and the importance of treating her work with professionalism. <...

Healing Unworthiness: Journeying Through Psychedelics, Somatic Practices, and Feminine Empowerment with Leslie Draffin

In this insightful conversation, Leslie Draffin, a multifaceted woman's society coach, shares her extraordinary journey from a conservative upbringing and personal trauma to becoming a guide in psychedelic microdosing, breathwork, meditation, and menstrual psych education.

Leslie delves into how she overcame feelings of unworthiness and disconnection from her body through spiritual awakening, somatic practices, and the transformative power of psychedelics. She offers a compelling perspective on integrating mind-body practices to heal trauma, reconnect with femininity, and explore profound self-discovery.

The...

Healing Intimacy: Nicola Beer's Journey and Techniques for Relationship Revival

In this insightful episode, Nicola Beer, a certified relationship counselor, hypnotherapist, and host of the Successful Relationship Revival podcast, shares her journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a specialized therapist in sexual wellness and intimacy.

Nicola discusses her unique blend of therapy and coaching to help individuals and couples overcome intimacy blocks and rebuild trust and connection. From emotional intimacy foundations to overcoming porn addiction, Nicola offers practical advice and exercises to enhance intimate relationships.

She also explains the benefits of setting...

Empowering Women Through Hormonal Transitions with Amita Sharma

In this episode, we talk with Amita Sharma, co-founder of Nourish Doc, a holistic wellness platform that supports women through every stage of their hormonal transition, from PMS to perimenopause and beyond.

Amita shares her journey from her upbringing in India, where discussions on these topics were taboo, to creating an innovative self-care app for women. She emphasizes the need for awareness and communication on often stigmatized issues like menopause, libido, and mental health. The conversation covers the impact of hormonal changes on relationships, the importance of...