In this episode of Better Sex, host Jessa Zimmerman discusses how parents can maintain a thriving sex life despite the challenges of raising young kids. Joined by special guest Lauren Ditzian, a couples and sex therapist, they explore common issues such as desire discrepancy, feeling touched-out, and managing resentment. They also offer practical advice on communication strategies, redefining sex, and prioritizing intimacy amidst the chaos of parenting. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 01...
Jun 16, 2025•27 min
In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host and sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman welcomes a former student who shares his personal journey of overcoming years of intimacy struggles in his marriage. The guest recounts how early retirement and his wife's menopause led to a five-year period of no sexual contact, deteriorating communication, and his eventual realization of the depth of his wife's unhappiness. He discusses the transformative impact of joining Jess’s program, which guided him to list...
Jun 12, 2025•50 min
In this episode of Better Sex, host Jessa Zimmerman and guest Dr. Anne discuss the prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED), its underlying causes, and various treatment strategies. They explore how lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, can significantly improve sexual health and why it's crucial to address the root causes of ED rather than just the symptoms. Dr. Anne shares her expertise on innovative treatments like stem cell therapy, shockwave therapy, and the use of Botox to enhance e...
Jun 09, 2025•38 min
Join sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman in this episode of the Better Sex Podcast as she explores how otherwise happy couples can transform their sex lives. With 15 years of experience and working with over a thousand couples, Jessa shares insights on the importance of addressing sex and intimacy issues, understanding desire discrepancies, and removing the societal expectations that can hinder sexual satisfaction. She emphasizes the significance of mutual respect and love between partners, sharing pr...
Jun 05, 2025•10 min
In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host Jessa Zimmerman welcomes back Dr. Paul Abramowitz for a deep dive into vulnerability in men and its impact on their intimate relationships. They explore the different stages of male development and how vulnerability manifests, the importance of understanding and embracing this vulnerability, and strategies to enhance intimacy and connection. The discussion covers biological and psychological aspects, the role of pornography, and practical steps for...
Jun 02, 2025•1 hr
In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host Jessa Zimmerman dives into the concept of questioning our thoughts, which she argues is crucial for enhancing intimate relationships. Using the acronym CT FAR (Circumstances, Thoughts, Feelings, Actions, Results), Zimmerman explains how our automatic thought processes affect our emotions, behaviors, and outcomes. She provides practical examples, like interpreting someone's actions in traffic or a partner's habits at home, to illustrate her points. ...
May 29, 2025•16 min
In this episode of The Better Sex Podcast, host Jessa Zimmerman chats with urologist and women's sexual health advocate Dr. Kelly Casperson. They delve into the myths and fears surrounding hormone replacement therapy (HRT), particularly focusing on menopause and its implications. Dr. Casperson explains why many common concerns, such as the belief that HRT causes breast cancer, are unfounded. She also emphasizes the importance of individualized care, informed consent, and the numerous benefits of...
May 26, 2025•44 min
In this episode of The Better Sex Podcast, host Jessa Zimmerman delves into the topic of eroticism and the empowering act of writing one's own erotica. She discusses how writing personal erotic stories can help individuals explore their fantasies, reclaim power, and ignite their arousal. Jessa also introduces her new project, Women Writing Erotica, a community for women to share and discuss their writings in a safe and supportive environment. 00:00 Introduction 00:45 Exploring Eroticism Through ...
May 22, 2025•7 min
In this episode of the Better Sex podcast, host sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman discusses faith transitions and the impact on intimate relationships with guests Jeremiah Gibson and Julia Postema, co-hosts of the Sex Evangelicals podcast and founders of an international coaching business. They delve into deconstructing purity culture, gender roles, and high-control religions, sharing personal stories and professional insights. They emphasize the importance of communication, managing stress, and sup...
May 19, 2025•44 min
In this episode of The Better Sex Podcast, host and sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman delves into the fun and crucial topic of eroticism. Building on her previous discussion of nine competencies necessary for a great sex life, Jessa focuses specifically on the ninth competency: exploring what truly turns you and your partner on. She defines eroticism as more than just physical acts but the subtleties and energies that arouse us. Jessa provides strategies to identify and discuss erotic preferences wi...
May 15, 2025•12 min
In this episode of Better Sex, host Jessa Zimmerman discusses body acceptance, freedom from body shame, and the broader implications on sexual intimacy and pleasure with guest sex therapist Nikita Fernandes. They explore the sources and impacts of body shame, the unique challenges faced by diverse communities, and practical steps towards body acceptance and empowerment. 00:00 Introduction to Better Sex 00:46 Jessa's Intro on Body Shame 01:52 Nikita's Background and Motivation 04:32 Populations a...
May 12, 2025•30 min
In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman discusses the significance of sex in intimate relationships. Addressing the common concern from lower desire partners who often feel misunderstood or inadequate, Jessa delves into why sex is more than just a physical act—it is a profound emotional connection. She explains how openness and vulnerability during sex create a unique bond between partners. By exploring these dynamics, Jessa offers insights and strategies fo...
May 08, 2025•9 min
In this episode of the Better Sex podcast, host Jessa Zimmerman interviews Ann Russo, an expert on sexual empowerment. They discuss the concept of sexual empowerment, its importance for individuals across different sexual orientations and gender identities, and the benefits and barriers to achieving it. Ann shares insights from her work and personal experiences, exploring how societal and cultural messages, particularly around religion and female sexuality, contribute to disempowerment. They als...
May 05, 2025•30 min
In this episode of The Better Sex Podcast, host Jessa Zimmerman addresses the complex question of whether individuals are entitled to sex within their relationships. She explores both sides of the argument, emphasizing the importance of mutual satisfaction and highlighting the pitfalls of entitlement. Jessa underscores the significance of a fulfilling sex life for both partners and the need for self-reflection and teamwork. The episode also discusses common misconceptions and harmful attitudes t...
May 01, 2025•9 min
In this episode of The Better Sex Podcast, host Jessa Zimmerman speaks with couples and sex therapist Dr. Emily Jamea about her new book, 'Anatomy of Desire: Five Secrets to Create Connection and Cultivate Passion.' They discuss the concept of achieving a flow state during sex, which involves being so fully absorbed in the moment that time seems to disappear and there's a profound connection with one's partner. Emily shares insights from her research, including the importance of curiosity, adapt...
Apr 28, 2025•28 min
In this episode of The Better Sex Podcast, host and sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman discusses the challenges faced by the lower desire partner in a relationship. She addresses the common issue of desire discrepancy and emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding. Jessa shares insights from her work with clients and highlights the guilt and feeling of brokenness that often accompany lower desire. By changing the conversation and creating a safe space, couples can co-create a better sexua...
Apr 24, 2025•12 min
In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host sex therapist, Jessa Zimmerman, engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Irwin Goldstein from the San Diego Sexual Medicine Clinic. They discuss the often overlooked and lasting sexual side effects of widely prescribed medications, including birth control pills, SSRIs, and finasteride (Propecia). Dr. Goldstein explains the mechanisms by which these medications impact sexual health and shares research findings and patient experiences. Li...
Apr 21, 2025•31 min
In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman discusses how to use the giver receiver exercise for personal and relational growth. Jessa provides detailed insights on recognizing personal progress, identifying challenges, and reflecting on experiences to foster meaningful breakthroughs in intimate relationships. The episode offers guidance both for the receiver and the giver in the exercise, emphasizing the importance of communication, self-awareness, and practice. Lis...
Apr 17, 2025•18 min
In this episode of Better Sex, host Jessa Zimmerman interviews AJ Cheyfitz about kink and BDSM, discussing misconceptions, mental health, and trauma-related aspects. They explore how individuals can safely engage in kink, the importance of negotiation, identifying red flags, and how to find kink-aware therapists. The conversation emphasizes destigmatizing kink and ensuring a supportive environment for those exploring or involved in BDSM. 00:00 Introduction to Better Sex Podcast 00:59 Exploring K...
Apr 14, 2025•35 min
In this 'soapbox' episode of Better Sex, sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman discusses the concept of transforming sexual encounters into playful, pressure-free experiences akin to visiting a playground. Highlighting the pitfalls of goal-oriented sex, Zimmerman suggests focusing more on pleasure and connection rather than specific outcomes. She provides strategies for reducing pressure and creating a more flexible, enjoyable intimate relationship. Listeners are encouraged to embrace this approach, whi...
Apr 10, 2025•9 min
In this episode of The Better Sex Podcast, host sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman converses with Elle Hamilton Wohl about the multifaceted benefits of pole dancing. Wohl details how this practice serves as a powerful means of embodying sensual movement, aiding in sexuality, trauma recovery, pleasure, awareness, and body acceptance. They explore the therapeutic potential of pole dancing, how it integrates physical fitness with mental health, and its ability to connect individuals to their sensuality....
Apr 07, 2025•23 min
In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host and sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman discusses the importance of experiential practice in improving intimate relationships. She introduces the Giver-Receiver Exercise, a powerful tool from her sex therapy practice and online course, 'Intimacy with Ease.' She explains how this exercise integrates nine essential skills for a thriving sex life, such as prioritizing intimacy, learning to communicate about sex, and practicing mindfulness. Listeners are gui...
Apr 03, 2025•19 min
In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host Jessa Zimmerman delves deep into the topic of hormonal birth control with nurse practitioner Mia Neustein from San Diego Sexual Medicine. The discussion covers various forms of hormonal and non-hormonal birth control, their side effects, and the specific impact of hormonal birth control on sexual health. Mia explains the vestibule, its role in sexual functioning, and how hormonal birth control can sometimes cause pain, itching, and burning during s...
Mar 31, 2025•43 min
In this episode of The Better Sex Podcast, sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman discusses nine essential competencies for creating and maintaining a great sex life. Jessa emphasizes the importance of prioritizing intimacy, effective communication about sex, accessing desire, enjoying the journey, being present, celebrating 'no,' balancing being selfish and giving, and exploring eroticism. These competencies focus on internal mindsets and skills rather than physical techniques. She also emphasizes the n...
Mar 27, 2025•21 min
In this episode of Better Sex, host sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman talks with Bea Albina about 'emotional outsourcing' - a concept she coined to describe chronic people-pleasing and codependency. Bea shares her personal journey of detachment from her body and how she transitioned to a more joyful and authentic life. They discuss the overlap between people-pleasing and codependency, how these behaviors manifest, and their impact on intimate relationships and sex. Bea offers practical advice on rec...
Mar 24, 2025•32 min
In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host and sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman delves into the sexual avoidance cycle, a term she coined to describe a common issue in intimate relationships. She explains how negative experiences and unmet expectations lead to avoidance, creating a cycle of increasing pressure and anxiety around sex. Jessa discusses various factors that contribute to this cycle, such as personal insecurities, relationship conflicts, and external life stressors. She emphasizes ...
Mar 20, 2025•11 min
In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host Jessa Zimmerman talks with Paul Abramowitz, author of 'Sexed: Hardwired by Nature, Evolving by Choice,' about the intrinsic preoccupation men have with sex due to biological hardwiring. They discuss how this drive impacts men's lives and relationships, the importance of understanding and managing it, and the potential benefits of reflective engagement. Abramowitz shares insights from his book on men’s reproductive biological intelligence, the socio...
Mar 17, 2025•47 min
In this solo episode of the Better Sex Podcast, hosted by sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman, the spotlight is on the two distinct types of sexual desire—proactive and reactive. Zimmerman explains how proactive desire involves thinking about sex and feeling aroused independently, while reactive desire requires specific conditions and stimuli to become aroused. She discusses the common misconceptions surrounding these types of desire, their impact on relationships, and offers strategies to accommodate...
Mar 13, 2025•13 min
In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host Jessa Zimmerman is joined by Paula Leech, a therapist and author who returns to discuss her book on overcoming anxiety in sex and relationships. The conversation delves into how anxiety manifests in intimate settings, including performance anxiety, body image issues, and past traumas. Leech explains the importance of understanding and interacting with one's anxiety, offering actionable steps for fostering a healthier mindset, relaxing the body, and...
Mar 10, 2025•34 min
Navigating Desire Discrepancy: Common Traps and Solutions In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman discusses the universal issue of desire discrepancy in intimate relationships. Jessa explains the frequent traps and mistakes made by both higher and lower desire partners, which often exacerbate the problem. She emphasizes the importance of understanding and addressing these pitfalls with compassion and offers strategies to improve communication and intimacy. The ep...
Mar 06, 2025•14 min
