Pleasure Project: Sex and Relationships

Without Sleep, You Can’t Regulate
I got a coveted hour with Dr. Jessica Payne, a neuroscientist, who studies sleep, to ask all the questions you've probably wondered about but never had the chance to explore. We get into what the brain actually does during sleep and dreaming, how exercise, caffeine, alcohol, and sex affect your rest, and why good sleep matters for your relationship. 

Dr. Payne tells me, “It’s hard to draw on resource...

In this episode, I explore the intersection of chronic illness and sexuality. Focusing on type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and multiple sclerosis—three common conditions affecting people ages 45 to 70—I break down how symptoms and diagnoses impact couples' erotic and relational life. You’ll hear a candid discussion of how chronic illness can disrupt your intimacy, what your partnership might experience as the illness progre...

In this episode, Dr. Jenn Kennedy sits down with parenting expert Kristi Miller, LMFT to explore the often-overlooked challenges couples face in maintaining intimacy after having a baby. From the early postpartum months to the demanding years of parenting, many couples struggle to stay connected. Dr. Jenn and Kristi dive into the emotional, relational, and hormonal shifts that impact intimacy, offering insight from their work as co...

Dr. Jenn Kennedy explores the very human need for closeness and challenges of touch starvation—something she’s seeing more often in both singles and people in relationships who are experiencing increased distance and disconnection.

In this episode, she unpacks why so many are feeling deprived of physical connection and what it means for your emotional and relational health.

The Pleasure Circle Self Paced Course: OUT NOW!

⁠Pur...

Buying a home can bring up more than financial questions—it often reveals deeper dynamics in a relationship. In this episode, Dr. Jenn talks with seasoned broker Amy Baird about what really happens between couples during the home-buying process. They explore the explicit and unspoken negotiations, shifting priorities, and emotional stressors that show up in every stage of home buying and escrow. Whether it’s your first house or you...

In this episode Dr. Jenn sits down with Max Carey, filmmaker of the documentary, tOuchkink. Together they delve into the intriguing world of kink, exploring the various roles individuals take on and the diverse motivations that inspire their interests. Through thoughtful discussions, listeners will uncover the complex power dynamics at play and discover that kink often transcends mere sexual arousal.

With a focus on the emotional co...

In this episode, Dr. Jenn is joined by Jessa Zimmerman, a certified sex therapist and couples counselor who specializes in helping couples who are avoiding sex due to stress, disappointment, or pressure. Jessa, the author of Sex Without Stress and host of the Better Sex Podcast, shares her expertise on how to overcome the challenges of low desire in relationships.

Together, they explore the struggles faced by low-desire partners—oft...

In this episode, Dr. Jenn is joined by Dr. David Wohlsifer to discuss autism and sexuality. As experienced couples therapists, they unpack the unique challenges faced by autistic individuals in relationships, whether they're single or in long-term partnerships. The conversation explores dating, anxiety, social pressures, emotional dynamics, and the impact of autism on personal connections. Dr. Wohlsifer shares case examples tha...

In this episode, Dr. Jenn Kennedy dives into the complexities of open relationships through the stories of three different clients. From a couple exploring new dynamics to individuals—one man and one woman—each story offers a unique perspective on the challenges, outcomes, and emotional balancing involved in opening up a relationship. 

Tune in as Dr. Kennedy discusses the diverse experiences and the personal journeys that unfold whe...

In this episode, Dr. Jenn sits down with Dr. Diana Hill, a modern psychologist, dynamic speaker, and expert trainer. Together they explore wise effort—a Buddhist principle—applied to sexuality. They discuss where you focus your energy in intimacy, relationships, and self-connection. Is it serving you? Is it where you want to be? 

Dr. Diana Hill is redefining what it means to live with vitality. As a leader in psychological flexi...

Dr. Jenn interviews Dr. Kelly Casperson, an outspoken and irreverent urologist, speaker, and advocate, as they dive into all things menopause. Together they explore hormone replacement therapy, lubrication, the clitoris, and the dynamics of couples' relationships. Additionally, they give insights into why many women hesitate to seek help from urologists or sex therapists. 

Dr. Kelly Casperson is a board-certified urologic surgeo...

New Series Alert!

In this episode, Dr. Jenn delves into (or onto) All Fours by Miranda July through a psychological lens. Join her as she unpacks the themes of self-discovery, desire, aging and identity. This seemingly semi autobiographical novel is full of surreal moments that might make you both lean in with anticipation and cringe as you watch them unfold.

Tune in for a deep exploration of its key psychological layers and what m...

In this episode, Dr. Jenn sits down with Creinthea “Cre” Chritz, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse with a unique and insightful perspective on the intricate relationship between mental health and sexual well-being. Cre’s expertise allows us to explore how antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can significantly impact libido and sex drive, shedding light on the often-underestimated effects these medications can have on intima...

In this episode Dr. Jenn explores a client case study of Dana and Dominic (*all names and some details changed to protect identity), a couple seeking help with intimacy and communication.

Dr Jenn breaks down their challenges, the goals they brought to therapy, and the specific steps they take to build Dana and Dominic’s connection. You’ll hear about the obstacles they face, the strategies Dr. Jenn uses to support them, and how they ...

In this episode, Dr. Jenn is joined by Emma Rollin Moore, a Holistic Wellness Coach and co-founder of Women’s Heritage and Heritage Goods and Supply. She has authored two books and is also a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner (NTP), yogi, chef and educator. Emma leads group and private holistic wellness and cooking classes focused on women’s wellness, fermentation, food preservation, culinary medicine, and seasonal cooking.

Together, ...

In this episode, Dr. Jenn dives into the dynamics of family gatherings—something that’s top of mind as the holiday season approaches. However, the topic is relevant year-round, as family events can stir up a range of emotions. Many of Dr. Jenn's clients begin to feel anxiety during this time, grappling with everything from making plans and managing expectations to dealing with travel logistics, spending, and navigating family dynam...

In this episode Dr. Jenn sits down with Dr. Evan Goldstein, the leading anal health expert in the United States. Together they discuss All Things Anal - practical tips such as: how to prepare the body for anal play, different angles you can try, ways to make sure you’re clean, anatomy, why anal feels so good and much more. Dr. Goldstein is the founder of the Future method and one of the few surgeons in the world whose practice, Bes...

In this episode, Dr. Jenn explores the complexities of Long Distance Relationships. Recognizing that each relationship has its own unique dynamics, she delves into the varied needs that arise—whether they’re emotional, sexual, or logistical. Join Dr. Jenn as she navigates these challenges and offers insights to help you thrive in your long-distance connection!

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