Christina Braver: Romance Writing, Sex Positivity, and Authentic Relationships

In this episode, Christina Braver, an author known for her Steamy Small Town contemporary romance novels set in the Pacific Northwest, delves into her journey from a clinical psychologist and healthcare technology worker to a romance novelist.

Christina emphasizes the importance of depth and authenticity in her writing, highlighting her passion for representing passionate heroes with strong and soft sides, and heroines navigating societal challenges. She discusses the significance of real and open sexual relationships in her books, the importance of communication in relationships, combating toxic masculinity, and promoting sex positivity.

Christina also touches upon how romance novels can enhance real-life relationships, offering advice on how to talk about sex, fantasies, and pleasure. She concludes by sharing her process of balancing professional writing with family life and the motivation behind her work.

00:00 Introduction to Christina Braver

01:18 Christina's Journey to Writing

03:15 Writing Explicit Romance

05:49 Character Development in Romance Novels

08:43 Sex Positivity and Realistic Portrayals

12:02 Communicating About Sex and Pleasure

31:46 Exploring Fantasies and Safe Spaces

39:25 The Realities of Sexual Expectations

39:50 Navigating Sexual Boundaries and Communication

42:39 Insights from the BDSM Community

43:32 The Importance of Consent and Communication

47:48 Diverse Representation in Romance Novels

51:11 The Rise of Fantasy and Science Fiction in Romance

53:17 Personal Reflections and Autobiographical Elements

57:06 Vacation Romance and Its Unique Dynamics

01:06:39 Supporting Men in Modern Relationships

01:08:46 Balancing Writing and Personal Wellbeing

01:11:31 Upcoming Book Release and Final Thoughts

http://www.christinabraver.com/

https://www.instagram.com/christinabraverromance/

https://www.facebook.com/christina.braver.1/

https://www.tiktok.com/@christinabraverromance

Transformative Conversations: Exploring Authenticity, Pleasure, and Higher Love with Astra Soulfeather

In this insightful episode, visionary coach, speaker, and trauma-informed healer Astra Soulfeather discusses their holistic approach to sexuality, intimacy, and personal empowerment through their platform, Higher Love.

Astra shares personal stories of trauma and spiritual awakening, emphasizing the significance of mindfulness, intention, and authentic self-expression in transformative journeys. Topics include the impact of trauma, the importance of understanding and embracing one's own sexuality, the challenge and benefits of non-monogamous relationships, the role of pornography, and the necessity of constant communication and presence in relationships.

The episode concludes with Astra highlighting the importance of recognizing one’s value and the power of purposeful service in personal and professional healing work.

00:00 Introduction to Astra Soulfeather

01:00 Formative Experiences and Trauma

02:55 Spiritual Awakening and Transformation

07:41 The Practice of Spirituality

12:42 Higher Love and Relationship Dynamics

17:44 Intergenerational Trauma and Healing

25:24 The Role of Guides and Healers

33:21 The Liberation Pledge and Personal Transformation

46:20 Authentic Intimacy and Sexuality

54:59 Exploring Pleasure Beyond Sex

55:53 The Importance of Desire and Receiving

56:31 Sexuality as a Reflection of Self

59:01 Redefining Pleasure and Intimacy

01:07:43 The Role of Pornography in Sexual Education

01:18:02 Navigating Sexual Desires and Fantasies

01:26:14 Monogamy vs. Non-Monogamy

01:33:53 The Importance of Communication in Relationships

01:40:31 Balancing Personal Wellbeing and Helping Others

Astra Soulfeather's Website

https://www.higherlove.co/pledge

Exploring BDSM, Sex Positivity, and Personal Evolution with Miss. Mackenzee

In this episode, Ms. Mackenzee, a noted advocate for sex positivity and adult artistry, shares her journey into the world of BDSM and sexuality.

Raised in a secluded Catholic environment, she found herself drawn to alternative forms of sexuality and kink in her late teens. Miss. Mackenzee transitioned from a potential career as a music teacher to being a celebrated content creator and activist, emphasizing the importance of consent, body autonomy, and inclusivity.

She discusses her approach to negotiation in intimate relationships, her educational platform 'BDSM and Intimacy University,' and the crucial role of ongoing communication and trust in fulfilling sex lives. The conversation also touches on societal perceptions of sex education, the misconception of mainstream porn, and the importance of continual learning and self-care.

Throughout, Miss. Mackenzee's passion for helping others explore their sexual identities without shame is central to her work and personal fulfillment.

00:00 Introduction to Miss. Mackenzee

01:17 Formative Years and Early Influences

03:36 Discovering the Adult Industry

05:50 Embracing Dominance and Sexual Identity

11:31 Challenges and Realities of Porn

16:12 Balancing Content Creation and Advocacy

20:05 Negotiation and Communication in Intimacy

26:18 BDSM and Intimacy University

31:23 The Beauty of Power Exchange Relationships

32:03 Exploring Play and Power Dynamics

34:06 Navigating Play Frenzy and Safety

35:26 The Importance of Communication and Consent

37:23 Balancing Interests in Relationships

38:17 The Role of Education in Sexual Exploration

39:50 Personal Growth and Continuous Learning

49:53 Maintaining Mental and Physical Wellbeing

54:11 Finding Joy in Personal and Professional Life

Overcoming Betrayal: The Path to Healing and Transformation with Dr. Debi Silber

In this episode, Dr. Silber, a pioneering expert in performance and behavior transformation, shares her journey of becoming a post-betrayal transformation specialist after personal experiences of betrayal.

She explains the five stages of healing from betrayal, the impact of unhealed trauma on physical and mental health, and how individuals can move beyond their hurt to rebuild themselves.

Dr. Silber also delves into her work with both betrayed and betrayer clients, highlighting the transformative potential for both parties. Additionally, she discusses the importance of addressing the root beliefs that drive behaviors and how performance improvement in organizations can be tied to overcoming betrayal.

Dr. Silber's story of turning her trauma into a mission to help others is both inspiring and informative, providing valuable insights for anyone dealing with the aftermath of betrayal.

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Silber and Her Journey

01:18 Personal Betrayal and the Path to Healing

02:37 Discoveries in Betrayal and Healing

06:50 Stages of Healing from Betrayal

12:39 Moving Beyond Stage Three

18:02 Rebuilding and Transformation

23:32 Rebuilding After Destruction

24:18 Rethinking Relationships and Betrayal

25:01 The Decision to Help Others

26:21 The Impact of Betrayal on Health

29:08 Transforming Habits and Beliefs

31:06 Betrayal in the Workplace

36:04 Supporting Betrayers and the Betrayed

41:31 Personal Reflections and Future Plans

Founder, The PBT (Post Betrayal Transformation) Institute

https://ThePBTInstitute.com

Host of The From Betrayal to Breakthrough podcast

https://thepbtinstitute.com/podcast/

Watch my Recent TEDx Talks! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iyqOR69dHiU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XX30i6nC7ro

Do you have Post Betrayal Syndrome? Take the Quiz: https://pbtinstitute.com/quiz/

Understanding Sexual Health and Pleasure with Dr. Kennedy

In this insightful interview, Dr. Kennedy, a board-certified sex therapist with a PhD in clinical sexology, discusses her commitment to dismantling taboos around sexual health and pleasure.

She shares her journey and the values that drive her work, touching on the common theme of people feeling 'not enough' due to societal pressures and comparison culture.

Dr. Kennedy also introduces her 'Pleasure Project' and 'Pleasure Circle,' aimed at helping women explore their sexuality and improve their intimate lives. The conversation covers the impact of social media, the importance of intimacy in long-term relationships, and the challenges of navigating sexual identity and desires.

Dr. Kennedy emphasizes the need for open communication, self-exploration, and the importance of balancing professional and personal life for mental well-being.

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Kennedy

00:51 Formative Years and Career Journey

02:38 The Core Theme of Self-Worth

03:37 Impact of Social Media and Culture

05:40 Addressing Feelings of Inadequacy

09:39 The Pleasure Circle Program

14:11 Sexuality and Intimacy in Relationships

20:57 Navigating Empty Nesting

29:51 Addressing Personal Deterrents and Stimulators

30:27 Sexual Preferences and Communication

35:59 The Impact of Pornography on Perceptions of Sex

42:08 Navigating Sexual Identity and Pleasure

51:21 Balancing Professional and Personal Wellbeing

https://pleasureproject.us/

https://www.facebook.com/whatfeelsgood/

https://www.youtube.com/@drjennkennedy

https://instagram.com/drjennkennedy

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennkennedy/

Exploring Dynamic Sexuality and Empathy with Pepper Kat

In this episode of The Intimacy Inquiry podcast, Pepper Kat, a dynamic sexuality advocate and storyteller, shares her journey from journalism to the adult entertainment industry.

With a warm and inclusive approach, Pepper discusses overcoming societal taboos, the empowering aspects of platforms like OnlyFans, and the importance of sex work in human understanding and empathy.

She also dives into her innovative projects like the Dream Girl Chronicles and the Create Your Dream Girl experience. Through candid conversations, Pepper inspires listeners to embrace their uniqueness and foster a deeper understanding of their sexuality.

00:00 Introduction to Pepper Kat

00:43 Pepper Kat's Journey: From Journalism to Adult Entertainment

02:15 Breaking Taboos: Discussing Sexuality and Stigma

04:07 Transitioning Careers: Embracing Adult Content Creation

05:56 Empowerment and Control in the Adult Industry

07:57 The Evolution of Porn and Its Impact

16:04 Creating Authentic Content: The Role of Indie Porn

17:49 The Spicy Spectrum Podcast: Exploring Human Desires

22:26 Creating a Safe Space for Fantasies

23:04 The Concept of Dream Girl Chronicles

23:55 Innovative Storytelling in Adult Content

25:33 Audience Engagement and Feedback

27:45 Balancing Personal and Professional Life

28:08 Understanding and Empathy in Interactions

31:42 Addressing Loneliness and Social Challenges

34:12 Exploring Sexuality and Authenticity

36:33 Future Aspirations and Personal Wellbeing

40:15 Travel Dreams and Final Thoughts

https://linktr.ee/peppertheblackkat

Redefining Sexual Expression: A Conversation with Alexa Creed

In this episode, we sit down with Alexa Creed, a dynamic adult performer and content creator renowned for her raw authenticity and innovative storytelling.

Alexa discusses her journey from a double-degree holder in computer science and cryptography to a celebrated figure in the adult industry. She shares personal anecdotes from her happy childhood, supported by open-minded parents, which laid the foundation for her explorative and non-judgmental approach towards sexuality.

Alexa also delves into her deep commitment to inclusivity, body positivity, and fostering genuine connections through her work. She talks about the challenges and rewards of maintaining a balance between her professional persona and personal life, her thoughts on societal stigmas around sex, and her role in encouraging open dialogues about desire and vulnerability.

The conversation also touches upon broader societal issues such as empathy, parenting, and the importance of mental well-being, making it a profound exploration of what it means to experience and express desire authentically.

00:00 Introduction to Alexa Creed

01:04 Early Life and Formative Years

02:18 Journey into the Adult Industry

04:24 Professionalism in the Adult Industry

06:09 Business Approach and Creativity

10:25 Empowering Vulnerability in Men

16:19 Stigma and Society's View on Sexuality

24:44 The Role of Education and Communication

30:21 Men's Responsibility in Addressing Abuse

31:10 The Influence of the Tate Brothers

32:20 The Role of Empathy in Society

33:55 The Concept of a Unified World

34:38 Challenges of Entering Politics

38:07 Body Positivity and Self-Acceptance

41:25 Balancing Onscreen Persona and Personal Identity

45:41 Staying Innovative in the Adult Industry

50:11 Living in the Present

52:09 Finding Joy in Simple Things

https://alexacreed.club/

Navigating Sexual Identity and Mental Health: Insights from Brandon Simpson

In this episode, we welcome Brandon Simpson, a certified sex addiction therapist specializing in LGBTQIA+ issues, sexual behavior, and mental health.

Brandon, who holds a Master's in Clinical Psychology and works at the Novus Mindful Life Institute in California, shares his journey from New York to Los Angeles and his career transition from aspiring high school biology teacher to therapist. He discusses the importance of non-judgmental, sex-positive therapy, addressing societal expectations, sexual identity, and compulsive behaviors.

Brandon provides insights into the complexities of trauma, addictions, and the societal shame around sex and kinks. He emphasizes empathy, understanding, and the need for a balanced approach to mental health. The conversation also delves into personal coping mechanisms, the role of nature in his wellbeing, and the importance of curiosity in fostering societal empathy.

00:00 Introduction to Brandon Simpson

01:19 Brandon's Early Life and Move to California

02:45 Life in Los Angeles

04:44 Career Path and Shift to Therapy

07:12 Challenges and Rewards of Therapy

09:29 Impact of Political Climate on Therapy

12:01 Understanding Client Needs and Issues

13:56 Early Exposure to Porn and Its Effects

19:25 Societal Expectations and LGBTQ+ Issues

21:32 Dating Apps and Modern Relationships

26:31 Addressing Sex and Porn Addiction

29:27 The Impact of Media on Stress Relief

30:02 Initial Steps Towards Sobriety

31:04 Challenges of Developing a Healthy Relationship with Sex

32:24 Rewiring the Brain's Pleasure Pathways

35:52 Understanding and Accepting Sexual Desires

42:55 Addressing Trauma and Its Effects

49:33 Maintaining Mental Health as a Therapist

53:44 Finding Personal Joy and Happiness

@gay.therapist.brandon