Where does sexual shame come from—and how do we start letting it go? In this episode of Unzipping Taboos, we unzip some of the complicated ways shame shows up around sex, pleasure, and curiosity. We chat about how cultural messaging (like the old idea that sex is only for making babies) still impacts how people think and feel today—and how hard it can be to find accurate, judgment-free information about sex in a world full of misinformation and censorship.

We also get real about the role of the internet: yes, it can be a great place for anonymous questions and advice—but it can also fuel judgment, shame, and confusion. Dr. Sue shares insights from answering anonymous questions online, and we each reflect on how deeply ingrained shame can hold people back from fully understanding and enjoying their sexuality.

Throughout the conversation, we offer encouragement for anyone struggling with sexual shame—including tips for tuning out external noise, starting open conversations with trusted people, and knowing when it’s time to reach out to a professional. It’s an honest, compassionate talk about why normalizing conversations around sex isn’t just important—it’s necessary for healing and connection.

If you have a story, thoughts and/or a topic or question for Dr. Sue and Charlie please share your ideas here: ⁠Show suggestions

If you want to ask Dr Sue a sex question for the weekly Q&A you can submit it here: Ask a question

Why are sex toys still so taboo? In this episode of Unzipping Taboos, we take a thoughtful look at the stigma, curiosity, and misinformation that still surround sex toys—and why it’s time to change the conversation.

We explore how limited sex education, media portrayals, and cultural discomfort have shaped how people think about pleasure and the toys that can enhance it. Dr. Sue shares how she integrates sex toy education into her college classrooms and her work with older adults, and we chat about some of the common fears and questions many people have but rarely say out loud.

We also discuss the deeper relationship dynamics at play—like how insecurity, jealousy, or silence can complicate conversations about sex toys in partnerships, especially in heterosexual relationships. Together, we highlight the importance of communication, consent, and respecting boundaries when exploring new things with a partner.

Whether you’re curious, cautious, or already confident, this episode offers insight, validation, and encouragement to think differently about what pleasure means—and who gets to talk about it and who gets to have it.

If you have a story, thoughts and/or a topic or question for Dr. Sue and Charlie please share your ideas here: ⁠Show suggestions

Online dating: Is it worth it? Well… that really depends on your "worth it." In this episode of Unzipping Taboos, we get real about the highs, lows, and “what even is this?” moments of dating online. Charlie shares why online dating hasn’t worked for her, while Dr. Sue brings in perspective from her work with students, seniors, and curious minds of all ages.

We talk about setting realistic expectations, navigating dishonesty (hi, bots), and why knowing what you want before diving in can save you a lot of heartache. From ethical non-monogamy to decoding bios and red flags, we cover the good, the bad, and the confusing parts of digital dating.

Whether you're new to online dating or feeling jaded by the apps, we’re here to help you check in with yourself, stay grounded, and figure out what your version of “worth it” really looks like.

To see the question that prompted today's episode, you can read it on Substack or listen to it on YouTube

If you have a story, thoughts and/or a topic or question for Dr. Sue and Charlie please share your ideas here: ⁠Show suggestions

If you want to ask Dr Sue a sex question for the weekly Q&A you can submit it here: Ask a question