Better Sex - podcast cover

Better Sex

Jessa Zimmermanwww.intimacywithease.com
Better Sex is focused on helping all couples create and enjoy their best possible sex life. Better Sex is hosted by Jessa Zimmerman who is a couples’ counselor and nationally certified sex therapist. Each episode will dive into one topic related to sex. Some will be devoted to addressing sexual concerns like sexual dysfunction, differences in sexual desire, and intimacy problems. Some will help you develop realistic and helpful expectations. And some will offer information and approaches that can just make your sex life better.The information and discussion on the podcast should not be taken as medical advice or as therapy. Please seek out qualified professionals for medical and therapeutic advice.
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Episodes

327: The role of sex toys in women's sexual trauma recovery with Dr. Holly Wood

Want to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water. More info and resources: Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcast Secret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcast How Big a Problem i...

Sep 29, 202523 min

326: [Soapbox] How to bring up going to sex therapy

In this episode of The Better Sex Podcast, host and sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman addresses the challenging topic of how to approach your partner about going to sex therapy. Drawing from her experience with clients, Jessa provides valuable insights on framing the conversation in a positive light. She emphasizes the importance of mutual cooperation and understanding, and the need to avoid blame or shame when discussing sexual concerns. Jessa offers practical advice on breaking down barriers and s...

Sep 25, 20257 min

325: Exploring Human Sexual Potential with Rob Kancler

In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman is joined by Rob Kancler to discuss the potential for human sexual experience and the steps needed to enhance intimate relationships. Rob shares insights on how individuals often start with the wrong paradigm about sex and offers practical strategies to think differently about sexual fulfillment, connect with partners, and achieve true intimacy. He delves into the importance of downregulating the nervous system, using ...

Sep 22, 202559 min

324: [Soapbox] Think of sex like tapas

In this episode of The Better Sex Podcast, host and sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman discusses the importance of moving away from a goal-oriented, all-or-nothing approach to sex. She explains how this mindset can be a barrier for partners with "reactive" desire, and offers alternative metaphors like viewing sex as a playground or a tapas bar, where the focus is on enjoyment and exploration rather than completion. Jessa emphasizes that this shift can help reduce the pressure and improve intimacy wit...

Sep 18, 20257 min

323: Gay Relationships and Intimacy with Tom Bruett

In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host, and sex therapist, Jessa Zimmerman, talks to therapist Tom Bruett about the unique aspects and challenges of gay male relationships and sex life. Tom discusses the nuances of gay relationships, including the impact of heteronormative upbringing, the importance of differentiation, and specific sexual education needs. They explore the developmental stages of queer relationships and how to maintain vibrant intimacy and connection over time. The discu...

Sep 15, 202527 min

322: [Soapbox] The importance of celebrating 'no'

In this episode of The Better Sex Podcast, host and sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman delves into the importance of being able to say 'no' in intimate relationships. She discusses how the ability to decline is crucial for fostering a healthy and enjoyable sex life, free from distress and negative experiences. Through a session example and advice for both partners, she explains the positive impact that setting boundaries can have on mutual satisfaction. Listeners are encouraged to understand the diff...

Sep 11, 202510 min

321: Sexual pain in people with penises with Dr. Susie Gronski

In this episode of the 'Better Sex' podcast, host Jessa Zimmerman talks with Dr. Susie Gronski about the role of pelvic floor physical therapy for men, particularly focusing on pelvic pain. Dr. Gronski shares her journey into the field, driven by the courage of men seeking help for pelvic issues amidst a healthcare landscape that often overlooks male pelvic floor therapy. They discuss common conditions treated by pelvic floor physical therapy, such as erectile dysfunction, incontinence, and chro...

Sep 08, 202537 min

320: [Soapbox] Is there hope for my sex life?

In this episode of Better Sex, host and sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman tackles one of the most common and vulnerable questions: “Is there hope for my sex life?” Jessa explores the roots of hopelessness in intimate relationships, explains how communication and teamwork can reignite connection, and shares practical strategies for couples to rediscover joy and fulfillment in their sex lives. Whether you’re struggling with mismatched desire, stress, or just feeling stuck, this episode offers hope, in...

Sep 04, 20259 min

319: Sex after childbirth with Stephanie Konter-O'hara

In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, hosted by sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman, the guest is Stephanie Konter-O'Hara, a therapist and mother of a 19-month-old baby. Stephanie shares her personal and professional insights on how having children can impact sex life and intimate relationships. Key topics discussed include the physical, emotional, and relational challenges faced by new parents, the misconceptions around postpartum recovery, the perimenopausal state induced by breastfeeding, and ...

Sep 01, 202530 min

318: [Soapbox] Are you more attached to your partner's orgasm than they are?

In this episode of 'Better Sex,' host and sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman discusses the common issue of being overly focused on pleasing one's partner in a sexual relationship. She explores how this can lead to unintended pressure, diminishing genuine intimacy and connection. Through examples from her client interactions, Jessa illustrates how detaching from the expectation of sexual pleasure and being genuinely receptive to a partner's desires can enhance the relationship. Key strategies include ...

Aug 28, 20257 min

317: Sex Therapy in the Digital Age with Vanessa Cushing

In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host Jessa Zimmerman speaks with ASSECT certified sex therapist Vanessa Cushing about her new innovative project, Sex Therapy Pro—an online closed AI resource and soon-to-be app. They discuss the challenges and accessibility gaps in sexual health information, Vanessa's journey through the creation of this custom AI, and how it aims to provide vetted, accurate information to individuals and other clinicians. They also cover the importance of trauma-infor...

Aug 25, 202524 min

316: [Soapbox] How healthy is your sex life?

In this episode of The Better Sex Podcast, host and sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman explores what it truly means to have a healthy sex life. She challenges the common misconception that frequency alone defines a healthy sexual relationship and discusses the importance of mutual enjoyment, desire, engagement, and presence. Zimmerman also talks about the signs of an unhealthy sex life, such as sexual avoidance and lack of communication, and emphasizes the need for a fun and easy sexual relationship ...

Aug 21, 20258 min

315: Stories of Compassionate Sex Work with Remi Newman and Lilith Foxx

In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host Jess Zimmerman speaks with Lilith Foxx and Remi Newman about their new anthology, 'Hands-On.' The book is a collection of stories from sex workers that highlight the compassion, connection, and healing found in their work. The guests elaborate on the misconceptions surrounding sex work, the role of social justice, and their personal journeys within the profession. Lilith shares her empowering experience as a former sex worker and educator, while Re...

Aug 18, 202541 min

314: [Soapbox] What's under the anger?

In this episode of Better Sex, sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman dives into the concept of anger as a secondary emotion. She discusses how anger often masks more vulnerable feelings like fear, sadness, hurt, and shame. Zimmerman explains the importance of identifying and expressing these underlying emotions for better intimate relationships and effective communication. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their true feelings to foster empathy and connection with their partners. 00:00 Introduction ...

Aug 15, 20257 min

313: Psychedelic Pleasure Liberation with Dr. Nicole Thompson

In this episode of Better Sex, host Jessa Zimmerman interviews Dr. Nicole Thompson about her journey from purity culture to sexual liberation, focusing on how psychedelics can aid in this transition. They discuss the impact of purity culture, the importance of community, and the principles of set and setting in psychedelic-assisted therapy. Nicole shares her experiences and insights on how to use psychedelics to enhance sexual pleasure and dismantle shame. They also touch on the significance of ...

Aug 11, 202535 min

312: [Soapbox] Measure sexual desire in the middle

In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman discusses the concept of proactive versus reactive desire in intimate relationships. She delves into how these different types of desires function and the importance of recognizing them. Zimmerman emphasizes not measuring desire at the beginning but rather in the middle, once the 'engine' has warmed up. This shift in perspective can help partners feel more desired and reduce stress around sexual relationships. The episode p...

Aug 07, 20256 min

311: Overcoming Negative Sentiment Override with Zach Brittle

Want to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water. More info and resources: Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcast Secret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcast How Big a Problem i...

Aug 04, 202546 min

310: [Soapbox] 5 signs you need to focus on your relationship first

Want to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water. More info and resources: Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcast Secret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcast How Big a Problem i...

Jul 31, 20259 min

309: Staying married is the hardest part with Bonnie Comfort

In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host Jessa Zimmerman talks with psychologist and couples counselor Bonnie Comfort about her book 'Staying Married is the Hardest Part,' which delves into the complexities of her 30-year marriage. Bonnie shares her motivations for writing the book, driven initially by grief after the loss of her husband, Bob. The conversation explores Bonnie's personal experiences with the ebbs and flows of her marriage, particularly the struggles they faced around sexua...

Jul 28, 202537 min

308: [Soapbox} Preset limits are as unhelpful as expectations

In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host and sex therapist, Jessa Zimmerman, discusses the concept of reactive desire, where individuals may not initially feel in the mood for sex but can become aroused through the process. She emphasizes the importance of entering intimate situations with an open, flexible mindset without predefined expectations, allowing for the possibility of reactive desire to manifest. Jessa advises against making upfront decisions about the sexual outcome and advoca...

Jul 24, 20256 min

307: Issues that impact women's sexual desire with Dr. Jenn Kennedy

In this episode of Better Sex, host Jessa Zimmerman welcomes Dr. Jenn Kennedy to discuss the specific challenges women face around sexual desire. Dr. Kennedy shares her passion for women's health and the importance of inclusive research. Key topics include body image concerns, the impact of cultural messages, attachment theory, the role of EMDR in overcoming sexual trauma, and strategies for women to advocate for their own pleasure. The discussion also highlights the significance of relationship...

Jul 21, 202542 min

306: [Soapbox] Address your emotional connection first

In this episode of The Better Sex Podcast, host Jessa Zimmerman discusses the importance of addressing and repairing intimacy and connection in a relationship before focusing on improving one's sex life. She talks about the common issues couples face when there are differences in libido and how these can lead to emotional disconnection. Jessa emphasizes the need for open, heartfelt communication, positive focus, gratitude, and fun in restoring emotional closeness. She also covers how to understa...

Jul 17, 202511 min

305: Body Image in the LGBTQ community with Nick Demos

In this episode of The Better Sex Podcast, host Jessa Zimmerman speaks with Nick Demos about his new documentary, 'Body Electric,' which delves into body image issues within the queer community. The discussion covers the unique challenges faced by gay men, the root causes of body dysmorphia, the impact of the AIDS crisis, and internal bullying within the community. Nick shares his personal journey, addressing childhood sexual abuse and body dysmorphia, and reflects on societal pressures and the ...

Jul 14, 202543 min

304: [Soapbox] Sex not worth having

In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host and sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman discusses a common issue faced by couples: the lower desire partner consistently having sex to meet their partner’s needs, leading to resentment. Jessa shares insights from a recent coaching session where a woman expressed deep frustration from decades of unfulfilling sexual encounters with her husband. Jessa emphasizes the need for both partners to realize their role in co-creating this dynamic and offers strategi...

Jul 10, 202510 min

303: Tackling Gender Gap in Sexual Dysfunction Treatment with Dr. Maria Sophocles

In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host and sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman engages in a comprehensive discussion with Dr. Maria Sophocles, an OB GYN specialized in menopause and women's sexual health. They explore the often neglected topic of sexual health during menopause, debunk myths, and recommend safe, effective treatments like vaginal estrogen. The conversation touches on the societal stigmas surrounding women's sexual health, the importance of communication between partners, and st...

Jul 07, 202539 min

302: [Soapbox] Desire is not the same as attraction

In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host and sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman discusses the often misunderstood distinction between desire and attraction in intimate relationships. Zimmerman explains how many people confuse a decrease in spontaneous desire with a loss of attraction toward their partner. She details how desire can shift from proactive to reactive, particularly as relationships evolve, with age, stress, and familiarity. Listeners will gain insight into maintaining a healthy se...

Jul 03, 20259 min

301: Embodied Receiving with Rosalyn Dischiavo

In this episode of Better Sex, host Jess Zimmerman engages in a deep conversation with Rosalyn Dischiavo, who runs the Institute for Sexuality Education and Enlightenment. They discuss Ros's journey into sexuality education, the five levels of intimacy, and the concept of embodied receiving. The conversation covers the importance of embodiment in building intimacy, the challenges posed by modern technology and societal norms, and the distinction between sexual and sensual experiences. Ros also e...

Jun 30, 202542 min

300: [Soapbox] The power of positivity in improving your sex life

In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host and sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman delves into the power of positivity and its impact on sexual relationships. Discussing common struggles faced by couples, Jessa emphasizes the importance of shifting focus from negative feelings to cultivating hope and enthusiasm. She shares her own journey into sex therapy and provides expert advice on making sex a joyful and light-hearted part of life. Jess encourages listeners to envision a future where sex is e...

Jun 26, 202510 min

299: Men, Infidelity, & Disenfranchised Grief with Dr. Elliott Kronenfeld

In this episode of Better Sex, host Jessa Zimmerman delves into the intricacies of infidelity recovery with Dr. Elliott Kronenfeld. They discuss the complex emotions and traumas associated with infidelity, the process of rebuilding trust and security, and how couples can address the underlying issues that lead to cheating. Dr. Kronenfeld also introduces his books, 'Couples by Intention' and 'Unspoken Loss: Men, Infidelity, and Disenfranchised Grief,' which offer further insights into intentional...

Jun 23, 202546 min

298: [Soapbox] You and your partner may start with different goals

In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host Jessa Zimmerman discusses the different challenges faced by partners with differing levels of sexual desire. She explains the emotional impact on both higher and lower desire individuals and highlights the common feelings of rejection, guilt, frustration, and resentment. Zimmerman emphasizes the importance of helping couples understand each other’s experiences and working towards a shared vision of enjoyable and natural sexual intimacy. She also in...

Jun 19, 202510 min
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