What do your fantasies really say about you? Go to https://regain.us/alaynajoy to get 10% off your first month of couples therapy! In this season finale, Dr. Justin Lehmiller— social psychologist, Kinsey Institute researcher, and author of Tell Me What You Want joins Alayna to unpack the science of sexual fantasies: why we have them, what they mean (or don’t), and how they can actually strengthen relationships. FOR THE EXTENDED EPISODE join the Patreon community here ✨: https://www.patreon.com/A...
Jul 10, 2025•56 min•Ep. 20
After infidelity, is healing even possible? In this episode, Alayna Joy sits down with somatic and couples therapist Rebecca Stone to explore betrayal trauma, what causes people to cheat, and how couples can move forward after an affair. This week’s full extended cut (normally for Patreon members-only) is free for everyone. To get ALL the other extended cuts, join here: patreon.com/alaynajoy Connect with Rebecca: Website: affairrecoverycoach.com Group Practice: brooklynsomatictherapy.com https:/...
Jun 24, 2025•56 min•Ep. 33
In this inspiring conversation, Alayna sits down with Abby and Bhupie—therapists and co-creators of Prospect Counselling + Training—to unpack the big, messy questions around trauma and healing. Are we all traumatized? What does healing actually look like, beyond the therapy room? And how do we unlearn harmful beliefs about what healing “should” be? Whether you're in therapy, offering therapy, or dreaming of new models for care and community, this episode is for you. Check out Prospect Counsellin...
Jun 17, 2025•1 hr 6 min•Ep. 34
Sex therapist and author Stefani Goerlich joins us to break down the basics: What is kink? What is BDSM? How do you know if you’re “vanilla”—and is that a bad thing? We talk red flags, green flags, and what to keep in mind if you're just starting to explore. Whether you're curious, cautious, or ready to dive in, this episode is your judgment-free guide to kink! FOR THE EXTENDED EPISODE join the Patreon community here ✨: https://www.patreon.com/AlaynaJoy Connect with Stefani: https://www.stefanig...
Jun 11, 2025•57 min•Ep. 21
Check out Dossier Perfumes: https://dossier.co/ #dossier #dossierperfumes @dossierperfumes “It’s better late than never—because it’s never too late.” – Robin Douglass In this heartfelt conversation, Alayna is joined by Robin Douglass, an educator and coach who helps people come out later in life. Together, they explore what it means to question your identity as an adult, how to move forward without regret, and what to actually DO once you realize you yourself are a “late bloomer". It’s a tender,...
May 27, 2025•58 min•Ep. 29
Why do even the best relationships get stuck in cycles of conflict? FOR THE EXTENDED EPISODE join the Patreon community here ✨: https://www.patreon.com/AlaynaJoy In this episode, Alayna is joined by compassion-focused therapist and educator Michelle Becker to explore what really happens when we're triggered in relationships—and how we can bring more mindfulness, kindness, and connection into the moments that test us most. From the science of the threat-defense system (a.k.a. fight, flight, freez...
May 20, 2025•41 min•Ep. 17
Ever wonder why you get super anxious—or totally shut down—in relationships? FOR THE EXTENDED EPISODE join the Patreon community here ✨: https://www.patreon.com/AlaynaJoy In this episode, Alayna is joined by writer, speaker, and attachment theory expert Heidi Priebe for a deep dive into the world of attachment styles: what they are, where they come from, and how they quietly (or not so quietly) shape the way we show up in relationship. Together, they break down the basics of attachment theory in...
May 13, 2025•59 min•Ep. 17
FOR THE EXTENDED EPISODE join the Patreon community here ✨: https://www.patreon.com/AlaynaJoy In this episode, we’re unpacking how therapy has changed in the age of TikTok, and what all the online advice is really doing to our understanding of mental health. Alayna is joined by Gabriel Ray-Contreras, who is a former medical doctor turned counsellor, educator, and podcaster. Together they explore how trauma is talked about, the rise of “Insta-therapy,” and how to know when it’s time to question t...
May 06, 2025•42 min•Ep. 32
This week on Sleeping Around Alayna is joined by Eva Bloom, an award-winning non-binary sex educator and queer joy enthusiast. Whether you're just coming into your queerness or exploring intimacy for the first time, this episode is for everyone who’s ever wondered: Where do I even begin? Some Questions Covered: What does it mean to be a “late bloomer”? What often gets missed about pleasure anatomy? How do I build confidence to have real conversations about desire and pleasure? What’s missing fro...
Apr 29, 2025•36 min•Ep. 31
In this episode of Sleeping Around, Alayna is joined by pelvic floor therapist Sara Reardon to talk all things pelvic health—and it’s way more than just kegels. They unpack common (but often unspoken) issues like pain during sex, painful periods, and how to know if your pelvic floor is actually functioning normally. Whether you're experiencing any of these concerns, pregnant, postpartum, or just curious about how your body works, this episode is packed with everyday tips and empowering advice to...
Apr 08, 2025•52 min•Ep. 24
What is the key to unlocking your best sexual experiences? In this episode of Sleeping Around, Alayna and guest Dr. Lori Brotto explore the role of mindfulness in intimacy, its connection to pleasure and body awareness, and its uses for problematic low sexual desire. Plus, do both partners need to practice mindfulness for it to work? Tune in to learn the secrets of applying these tools to your own life and relationships. Connect with Dr. Brotto: Research lab: @ubcshr @drloribrotto loribrotto.com...
Apr 01, 2025•44 min•Ep. 30
Use the code SLEEPINGAROUND to try CHEEX for free for 7 days, click here 👉 https://bit.ly/CHEEXFreeTrial-SleepingAround The code applies when you select the yearly plan, but you can cancel or switch to the monthly plan anytime during the trial period! After that, your CHEEX subscription starts from just $9.90 USD per month ✨ This week, we’re diving deep into all things kink with guest Tina Horn! What exactly is kink? Where do these desires come from, and why do we have them? More importantly, h...
Mar 25, 2025•58 min•Ep. 22
Download Love & Pies here - https://pixly.go2cloud.org/SH4iP Thanks to Love & Pies for sponsoring! In this week's episode of Sleeping Around, Alayna sits down with Jak Levine-Pritzker to discuss the unique challenges and dynamics of dating with ADHD. They dive into the impact of ADHD on communication, household responsibilities, and new vs longterm connection, while offering practical strategies to create more understanding and balance in relationships. They also discuss important topics...
Mar 11, 2025•50 min•Ep. 21
In this week's episode of Sleeping Around, Alayna is joined by counsellor, consultant, and fat liberationist Alexandra Shewan for a conversation about fat liberation. They dive into the history of fatphobia, the medical industrial complex, and how anti-fatness intersects with racism, colonialism, and capitalism. Alexandra also shares insights on dating and how to unlearn internalized anti-fat bias. This is a must-listen episode for anyone looking to challenge societal norms and embrace true body...
Mar 04, 2025•55 min•Ep. 20
Any other Love Lies Bleeding fans out there?! This episode is for you!! Check out Dossier Perfumes: https://dossier.co/ (wait did I seriously just have a conversation with Katy O’Brian?! seriously?!) In today's episode of Sleeping Around, Alayna sits down with actor and martial artist Katy O’Brian to talk about identity, self-discovery, and queer representation in media. Katy shares her coming out journey, how she navigates sexual identity and gender expression, and the story of meeting her wife...
Feb 25, 2025•40 min•Ep. 19
What exactly is a boundary, and why do so many people struggle to set and maintain them? In this episode, we’re breaking down what boundaries truly are, how to set them effectively, and the secret to ensuring they’re “respected"! Connect with Juliane Taylor Shore: Why Does My Partner? Podcast Setting Boundaries That Stick Book Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianetaylorshore?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Website: Juliane Taylor Shore Email: admin@julianeta...
Feb 11, 2025•51 min•Ep. 18
For those of us who never got the sex education we needed - those left with gaps, shame, or straight-up misinformation - this episode is for us. Dr. Nadine Thornhill, an award-winning sexuality educator, joins us to break down what comprehensive, science-backed sex education could and does look like, and why it matters. We explore ideas around teaching youth about consent, pleasure, and relationships in ways that are affirming and age-appropriate. - Can abstinence-only education and sex positivi...
Feb 04, 2025•53 min•Ep. 17
This week Alayna sits down with Emma and Fin, a nonmonogamous couple who have been together since college and now co-host the podcast Normalizing Non-Monogamy. Together, they dive into the fundamentals of non-monogamy, offer practical advice for anyone curious about opening their relationship, and share stories of their own experiences. They answer questions like: What is non-monogamy? How can a curious person or couple get started? What are some non-monogamy red flags to look out for? Can a rel...
Jan 28, 2025•58 min•Ep. 16
Go t o https://surfshark.com/alayna for 4 extra months of Surfshark! Welcome to this special episode where I answer your questions and share some exciting updates! Some Questions I Answer: Wedding plans?! Do I ever get nervous interviewing people? How’s school going? What’s the biggest goal I achieved this year? ✨ Follow on Instagram @sleepingaroundpod : https://www.instagram.com/sleepingaroundpod/ ✨ Join Patreon to get extended episodes: https://www.patreon.com/c/AlaynaJoy ✨ Wedding dress video...
Jan 17, 2025•20 min
In today’s conversation with senior sex educator and author Joan Price, we debunk the myths and explore the realities of sexuality in later life. From navigating changes in our bodies to redefining what intimacy looks like, Joan shares invaluable insights, including: What to expect from sex as we age Overcoming shame and embracing desire Preparing for senior sexuality (yes, start now!) Grieving and sexuality Whether you’re curious about your own future or supporting a loved one, this episode is ...
Jan 14, 2025•49 min•Ep. 14
This week, Emily Nagoski (THE Emily Nagoski ah) and I explore what makes pleasure thrive in relationships by looking at how we can build stronger, more fulfilling connections. We also tackle questions like: What are the ingredients to a satisfying long-term sexual relationship? What if I don’t know what I like? How to experience pleasure? Why do couples with great sex lives talk about it so openly? And THEN in the Patreon extended version, we additionally discuss how to orgasm with a partner and...
Jan 07, 2025•53 min•Ep. 13
In this episode of Sleeping Around, Alayna welcomes longtime friend and queer sex educator Stevie Boebi to the therapy couch. Stevie shares her journey into queer sex education and the unique challenges of addressing disability, queerness, and relationships in her content. Together, they explore topics like lesbian sex techniques, navigating sensory issues during intimacy, and the importance of clear communication in relationships. Stevie Boebi is an international queer peer educator who started...
Dec 17, 2024•33 min•Ep. 12
In this episode, Alayna chats with Dr. Yuthika Girme about redefining singlehood. They tackle societal pressures, the myth that relationships equal happiness, and how to be single and happy. From working on your attachment style to the stigma around relationship status, this episode offers fresh insights into finding fulfillment on your own terms. Yuthika U. Girme is an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychology at Simon Fraser University. Dr. Girme is the Director of the S.E.C.U.R.E. L...
Dec 10, 2024•53 min•Ep. 11
What are the five key conversations every couple should have to improve their relationship? In this episode of Sleeping Around , we dive into this question with New York Times bestselling authors Vanessa and Xander Marin. Together, they explore the challenges of how to navigate communication hurdles in relationships, and some surprising truths about intimacy. Meet Vanessa and Xander Marin. She’s a sex therapist with 20 years of experience, he’s a regular guy, and together they wrote Sex Talks: T...
Dec 03, 2024•52 min•Ep. 10
Get all extended episodes and your holiday card here!: https://www.patreon.com/c/AlaynaJoy Go to https://surfshark.com/alayna for 4 extra months of Surfshark at an unbeatable price! Today Alayna welcomes Dr. Devon Price, a social psychologist and acclaimed author, to explore the intersections of neurodivergence, queerness, and authentic self-expression. Together they delve into masking, the challenges of navigating relationships as a neurodivergent person, and ways to overcome societal expectati...
Nov 26, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 9
In this episode of Sleeping Around, Alayna sits down with Dr. Eric FitzMedrud, a therapist specializing in helping men redefine masculinity, consent, and intimacy. They dive into complex topics like male vulnerability, emotional regulation, and unpacking harmful aspects of the "manosphere." Dr. FitzMedrud shares insights into consent, the importance of emotional connection, and advice on fostering authentic relationships. Whether you identify as a man or not, this conversation offers a fresh per...
Nov 12, 2024•58 min•Ep. 8
We dive into the world of asexuality in this week’s episode of Sleeping Around, with journalist and author Angela Chen. Angela's book, Ace: What Asexuality Reveals About Desire, Society, and the Meaning of Sex , sheds light on this often-misunderstood identity. Angela and Alayna explore questions like: How can someone recognize a lack of sexual attraction if they've never felt it? Can asexual individuals still enjoy intimacy and sex? How can ace and allo partners create fulfilling relationships ...
Nov 05, 2024•45 min•Ep. 7
Dive into a thought-provoking conversation as I welcome acclaimed erotic filmmaker Erica Lust to Sleeping Around . In this episode, we explore the world of ethical feminist porn- breaking down stereotypes, sharing behind-the-scenes stories, and redefining narratives on sexuality and representation. Lust sheds light on how her films focus on real pleasure, diversity, and empowerment in ways mainstream media often overlooks. Whether you're curious about ethical filmmaking or interested in fosterin...
Oct 29, 2024•46 min•Ep. 6
In this episode of Sleeping Around , I sit down with Dr. Kristin Neff, a pioneer in the field of self-compassion research. Dr. Neff shares insights from her groundbreaking work on mindful self-compassion, discussing how it transforms our relationship with ourselves and others. Listen in for some practical tips for developing your own self-compassion practice and discover how this essential skill can improve your well-being! We answer questions like: What are the myths about self-compassion that ...
Oct 22, 2024•50 min•Ep. 5
Trigger Warning: in this episode we discuss sexual trauma. The episode does not contain graphic detail but does include the story of Jimanekia's assault and discussion of sexual trauma in various forms. Take care of yourself! In this episode, I chat with Jimanekia about healing from trauma and the role of community in recovery. We discuss steps for survivors re-entering the dating world, essential self-care practices, and key advice for partners supporting a survivor. A thoughtful conversation o...
Oct 15, 2024•50 min•Ep. 4
