The Sexology Lab

sexologylab
  • 3.9 (38)
  • Health & Fitness
  • Updated Weekly

The conversation on human potential is incomplete without erotic intelligence. The Sexology Lab is where intimacy meets science, and where curiosity replaces shame. Each week, we step inside The Lab with the most compelling minds in modern sexology: pioneering researchers, visionary clinicians, sextech innovators, cultural disruptors, and leading educators. Together, we explore the questions shaping the future of desire, connection, and human wellness. This isn’t a podcast about the physical act. It’s a podcast about being human. Subscribe and join us as redefine wellness.

  1. 1d ago

    Trauma Doesn't Stay Outside the Bedroom | Amanda Jepson | Episode 27

    Trauma doesn't stay neatly contained in the past—and it doesn't stay outside the bedroom. In this episode of The Sexology Lab, we sit down with Amanda Jepson, SHA-certified and AASECT-certified sex therapist and trauma specialist, to explore how trauma can shape desire, pleasure, trust, touch, attachment, communication, and relational safety. Amanda explains why trauma-informed sex therapy often requires slowing down, building safety first, and helping clients reconnect with their bodies and sexuality at their own pace. We also talk about affirming care for erotic minorities, the risks of clinician bias, how Amanda chooses between modalities like EMDR, CPT, narrative therapy, CBT, and DBT, and what good care actually looks like for queer, kinky, non-monogamous, disabled, larger-bodied, and otherwise marginalized clients. Plus, Amanda shares how current political realities are showing up in the therapy room—and why community, supervision, curiosity, and ethical self-reflection matter more than ever. KEY TAKEAWAYS: Trauma can affect sexuality even when the trauma itself wasn't sexual. Trust, nervous-system regulation, desire, touch, vulnerability, attachment, and orgasm can all be impacted.Trauma-informed sex therapy moves at the client's pace. Safety and stabilization come first, followed by trauma processing and then deeper reconnection with pleasure, sexuality, and relationships.Clinicians have to examine their own bias. Erotic minorities can be harmed when professionals pathologize, judge, minimize, or over-romanticize identities and behaviors based on their own beliefs instead of listening to the client.SHOW SUMMARY: 00:00 Trauma & Sexuality 00:42 Erotic Minorities 01:54 Origin Story 04:00 Fluid Labels 04:32 Sensate Focus 05:48 Overcoming Bias 06:58 Clinical Gaps: OCSB 08:26 Taboo Porn & Guilt 12:35 EMDR, CPT & CBT 18:12 Safety & Stabilization 20:21 Fight or Flight vs. Orgasm 23:54 Somatic Coping 25:38 Ready for Reconnection 28:28 Kink, BDSM & CNM Trauma 31:52 Polyamory Affirming Care 36:56 Therapist Humility 38:22 LGBTQ+ Across Politics 45:28 Ethics: Community & Military 46:53 Post-Traumatic Growth 47:54 Rapid Fire Myths & Skills 49:45 SHA Experience RESOURCES MENTIONED THIS EPISODE: The Sexology Lab is powered by Sexual Health Alliance, the premier global hub for accredited sexology certifications, evidence-based continuing education (CE/CEU), and an expansive international network of therapists, healthcare providers, educators, and sexuality professionals.Learn directly from industry pioneers and leading voices in modern sexual wellness: Explore the Community: https://sexualhealthalliance.com/Accredited Certifications & Clinical Training: https://sexualhealthalliance.com/get-certified-allcertificationsJoin Us at AMPLIFY this October 2026! Modern intimacy is evolving. As millions turn to digital media, social platforms, and modern culture for guidance on sex, relationships, and identity, clinicians and educators must shape conversations that are inclusive, evidence-based, and representative. Secure your conference pass: https://www.sexologylab.com/amplifyResources and concepts discussed in this episode include: Amanda Jepson: https://colorfullifetherapy.com/ Sexual Health Alliance: https://sexualhealthalliance.com/ EMDR: https://www.emdria.org/ Tell Me What You Want by Dr. Justin Lehmiller: https://www.sexandpsychology.com/books/ SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW: If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review. Your support helps us reach more people with thoughtful, evidence-informed conversations about sex, relationships, trauma, and human behavior. 🎙 Thanks for tuning in to The Sexology Lab. See you next week! https://www.sexologylab.com/

    Trauma Doesn't Stay Outside the Bedroom | Amanda Jepson | Episode 27

  2. Aug 27

    Why You're Not in the Mood (And There's Nothing Wrong With You) | Dr. Nazanin Moali | Episode 26

    Today in The Lab, we sit down with Dr. Nazanin Moali, licensed clinical psychologist, certified sex therapist, and host of the Sexology Podcast, to unpack one of the most common concerns in modern relationships: low desire. Dr. Moali explains why so many people mistakenly believe something is "wrong" with them when they aren't spontaneously in the mood, and how understanding responsive desire can completely change the way we think about intimacy. We also explore the hidden factors that quietly erode desire—including chronic stress, nervous system dysregulation, emotional safety, body image, mental load, relationship dynamics, and the myth that great sex should always happen effortlessly. Plus, Dr. Moali shares practical strategies couples can use to reconnect, communicate about sex, and cultivate desire over time instead of waiting for it to magically appear. KEY TAKEAWAYS: Most people experience responsive desire, meaning desire often follows arousal—not the other way around—and there's nothing broken about that.Stress, emotional safety, mental load, and disconnection have a profound impact on desire, often more than libido itself.Great sex isn't effortless—it requires communication, curiosity, and intentionally creating the conditions where desire can thrive.SHOW SUMMARY: 00:00 - 00:44 – Debunking the Myth of Spontaneous Libido vs. Responsive Desire 01:48 – Dr. Nazanin Moali on Clinical Sex Therapy and Modern Intimacy 04:16 – Hollywood Misconceptions: Understanding Responsive Desire in Relationships 06:16 – Nervous System Dysregulation, Burnout, and Low Sexual Drive 08:45 – Polyvagal Theory, Somatic Movement, and Regulating Stress for Pleasure 11:21 – Building Emotional Safety, Healing Trauma, and Overcoming Bodily Disconnection 12:48 – Overcoming Long-Term Relationship Predictability with Erotic Novelty 13:56 – Mapping Your Erotic Template and Using an Erotic Journal 16:56 – Cortisol Overload, Body Image Issues, and Navigating Sexual Shame 17:59 – Libido Killers: Antidepressant Side Effects and Perimenopause Hormonal Shifts 18:43 – Practical Insights from the Sexology Practice Guide 19:43 – Managing Desire Discrepancies and the Myth of Effortless Intimacy 21:18 – Sexual Communication Strategies: Sexy Happy Hour and Intimacy Menus 22:24 – Domestics Resentment: Chore Inequity and the Parent-Child Relationship Dynamic 27:12 – Rebalancing the Mental Load and Sensory Overload for Caregivers and Moms 27:42 – Dr. Nazanin Moali’s Journey Founding the Sexology Podcast 31:16 – De-stigmatizing Taboo Intimacy Topics, Kink, Pegging, and Sexual Education 32:45 – Content Creation Tips for Aspiring Sexual Health Podcasters 34:11 – Why Sex Feels Like a Chore: Shifting from Goal to Experience RESOURCES MENTIONED THIS EPISODE: The Sexology Lab is powered by Sexual Health Alliance, the premier global hub for sexology certifications, evidence-based continuing education (CE/CEU), and an expansive international network of therapists, healthcare providers, educators, and sexuality professionals. Explore the Community: https://sexualhealthalliance.com/Certifications: https://sexualhealthalliance.com/get-certified-allcertificationsJoin Us at AMPLIFY this October 2026 Modern intimacy is evolving. As millions turn to digital media, social platforms, and modern culture for guidance on sex, relationships, and identity, clinicians and educators must shape conversations that are inclusive, evidence-based, and representative. Secure your conference pass: https://www.sexologylab.com/amplifyMore from this episode's guest at: Dr. Nazanin Moali: https://oasis2care.com/Sexology Podcast: https://sexologypodcast.com/The Erotic Mind by Jack MorinSUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW: If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps us reach more people who need these insights.🎙 Thanks for tuning in to The Sexology Lab. See you next week! www.sexologylab.com

    Why You're Not in the Mood (And There's Nothing Wrong With You) | Dr. Nazanin Moali | Episode 26

  3. Aug 20

    The Kids Are Alright: Dr. Eli Sheff on 25+ Years of Polyamorous Family Research | Episode 25

    What kind of relationship actually works for you—and how much of that answer comes from what you genuinely want versus what you've been taught a relationship is supposed to look like?In this two-part conversation, we sit down with Dr. Eli Sheff, sociologist, certified sexuality educator, longtime researcher of consensual non-monogamy, and Director of Sexual Health Alliance's Advanced Certification in Consensual Non-Monogamy. Drawing on more than 25 years of research, Dr. Sheff takes us beyond the stereotypes surrounding polyamory and into what people's relationships and families actually look like. In Part 2, we turn to Dr. Sheff's groundbreaking longitudinal research on polyamorous families with children. After decades of following these families, her findings challenge one of the biggest assumptions about consensual non-monogamy: that unconventional relationship structures inherently create instability for children. Instead, her research highlights resilience, emotional intelligence, strong support networks, and the importance of what she calls polyaffective relationships KEY TAKEAWAYS: Dr. Sheff's long-term research challenges assumptions that children raised in polyamorous families are inherently confused or unstable; the families in her research demonstrate significant stability, resilience, emotional connection, and social support.Strong polyamorous families often rely on polyaffective relationships—lasting emotional bonds that can remain important even when sexual or romantic relationships change. The quality of relationships, communication, consent, and support may tell us far more about a family's well-being than whether its structure fits conventional expectations.SHOW SUMMARY: 00:00 - 02:56 - Common Mistakes in Consensual Non-Monogamy & Navigating the Unicorn Hunters Phenomenon 02:56 - Unpacking Threesome Dynamics: Deconstructing Male Fantasies and Pornography Expectations 06:13 - The Evolution of Consensual Non-Monogamy in Academic Research and Psychology 11:00 - Debunking Myths About Polyamorous Families: Resilience, Emotional Intelligence, and Child Support Networks 16:50 - How Children Form Relationships with Parental Partners in Polyamorous Homes 20:05 - Overcoming Societal Stigma and Understanding Boundaries in Polyamorous Parenting 23:53 - Lightning Round: Media Representation, Pop Culture Portrayals, and the Reality of Non-Monogamous Lifestyles 27:51 - A Message for the Next Generation: Releasing Shame and Embracing Sexual Health and Relationship Diversity RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: The Sexology Lab is powered by Sexual Health Alliance, the premier global hub for sexology certifications, evidence-based continuing education (CE/CEU), and an expansive international network of therapists, healthcare providers, educators, and sexuality professionals. Learn directly from industry pioneers and leading voices in modern sexual wellness: Explore the Community: www.sexualHealthAlliance.com Certifications: www. sexualhealthalliance.com/get-certified-allcertifications
Join Us at AMPLIFY this October 2026! Modern intimacy is evolving. As millions turn to digital media, social platforms, and modern culture for guidance on sex, relationships, and identity, clinicians and educators must shape conversations that are inclusive, evidence-based, and representative. Secure your conference pass: https://sexualhealthalliance.com/sha-annual-conference-2026More from this episode's guest and topics discussed: Dr. Eli Sheff: https://elisabethsheff.com/ The Bonding Project: https://www.bondingproject.com/ Sexual Health Alliance Advanced Certification in Consensual Non-Monogamy: https://sexualhealthalliance.com/consensual-non-monogamy-certification SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW: If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps us reach more people who need these insights.🎙 Thanks for tuning in to The Sexology Lab. See you next week! ⁠www.sexologylab.com⁠

    The Kids Are Alright: Dr. Eli Sheff on 25+ Years of Polyamorous Family Research | Episode 25

  4. Aug 13

    Monogamy, Polyamory, or Something Else? Finding Your Relationship Style with Dr. Eli Sheff Part 1 | Episode 24

    What kind of relationship actually works for you—and how much of that answer comes from what you genuinely want versus what you've been taught a relationship is supposed to look like? In this two-part conversation, we sit down with Dr. Eli Sheff, sociologist, certified sexuality educator, longtime researcher of consensual non-monogamy, and Director of Sexual Health Alliance's Advanced Certification in Consensual Non-Monogamy. Drawing on more than 25 years of research, Dr. Sheff takes us beyond the stereotypes surrounding polyamory and into what people's relationships and families actually look like.In Part 1, we explore the many ways people build relationships, from monogamy and polyamory to swinging and other forms of consensual non-monogamy. Dr. Sheff introduces the Bonding Project, explains how to determine which relationship structure might work for you, breaks down common mistakes people make when opening relationships, and tackles everything from unicorn hunting to couples privilege. There is no single relationship structure that works for everyone. Monogamy, polyamory, swinging, and other relationship styles come with different expectations around emotional intimacy, exclusivity, autonomy, and commitment.Before trying consensual non-monogamy, it's important to consider not only how you feel about having additional partners, but how you would feel about your partner having those same opportunities.SHOW SUMMARY: 00:00 – Non-traditional Relationship Models and Cornerstone Needs 00:21 – Introduction to Dr. Eli Sheff and Consensual Non-Monogamy 01:14 – Guest Icebreaker: Dr. Eli Sheff's Background in African Dance 01:54 – Overview of The Bonding Project Relationship Test 03:56 – Audience Compatibility and Romantic Bonding Archetypes 05:59 – Inspiration and History Behind Creating The Bonding Project 08:10 – Relationship Diversity, Stigma, and Fluid Expectations 09:58 – Paid Results Expansion and Managing Polycule Expectations 11:49 – Sponsor Segment: Sexology Practice Guide Promotion 12:28 – Defining Consensual Non-Monogamy, Open Relationships, and Polyamory 13:47 – Emotional Intimacy vs. Couple's Privilege in Polyamory and Swinging 16:12 – Identifying Personal Alignment with Monogamy vs. Polyamory 19:07 – Structuring Relationship Boundaries, Open Arrangements, and Alone Time 21:33 – Sociological Differences Between Polyamory, Polygamy, and Polygyny 22:56 – Socioeconomic Requirements of Polyamory and Women's Autonomy RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: The Sexology Lab is powered by Sexual Health Alliance, a global hub for world-class certifications, cutting-edge education, and a thriving community of professionals. Many of the show's guests also share their expertise at their events. Join them at: www.SexualHealthAlliance.com More from this episode's guest and topics discussed: Dr. Eli Sheff: https://elisabethsheff.com/ The Bonding Project: https://www.bondingproject.com/ Sexual Health Alliance Advanced Certification in Consensual Non-Monogamy: https://sexualhealthalliance.com/consensual-non-monogamy-certification SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW: If you loved these episodes, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps us reach more people who need these insights. 🎙 Thanks for tuning in to The Sexology Lab. See you next week! https://www.sexologylab.com/

    Monogamy, Polyamory, or Something Else? Finding Your Relationship Style with Dr. Eli Sheff Part 1 | Episode 24

  5. Aug 6

    Question Everything: How Japan, the Military, and Kink Shaped Midori | Episode 23

    Today in The Sexology Lab, we sit down with Midori—sexologist, educator, author, artist, and one of the pioneering voices in modern kink education. Best known for writing the first English-language instructional book on Japanese rope bondage and for leading Sexual Health Alliance's Kink Informed Certification Program, Midori shares the remarkable story behind the educator so many professionals know today. From growing up in Japan and immigrating to the United States at 14 without speaking English, to serving in the U.S. Army, discovering San Francisco's underground sex-positive movement, and helping shape modern kink education, Midori explains how questioning cultural norms became the foundation of her life's work. She also explores how attitudes toward sexuality differ between Japan and North America, why the BDSM community developed many of today's consent practices, and what professionals still get wrong when working with kinky clients. KEY TAKEAWAYS: Curiosity—not certainty—has driven Midori's career. Constantly questioning assumptions has allowed her to challenge outdated ideas about sexuality and kink.Modern BDSM education wasn't built overnight. Many of today's best practices around consent, negotiation, and safety were developed through decades of community learning and activism.Professionals can unintentionally harm kinky clients through bias, assumptions, or lack of education. Becoming kink-informed starts with curiosity, humility, and examining our own blind spots.SHOW SUMMARY: 00:00 Introducing Kink Pioneer Midori 01:23 Midori’s Origin & Early Background 01:45 Cultural Views on Sex: Japan vs. US 03:43 Questioning Norms & "Coming Out" Kinky 05:15 Contextual Shame in Japanese Culture 07:28 Sensory Sensuality & Eroguro in Japan 10:34 Negotiation & Communication Gaps in Japan 12:54 Bringing Consent & Negotiation to Japan 13:14 Promo: The Sexy Practice Guide 14:13 Common Mistakes Therapists Make with Kink 15:56 Trauma Assumptions & Pathologizing Kink 16:51 Consensual Non-Consent vs. Non-Consensual Kink 18:33 The Spectrum of Non-Consensual Kink 20:20 How Therapists Can Signal Kink-Inclusivity 22:02 Networking & Outing Yourself to Doctors 23:56 How the DSM-5 Shifted Kink Stigma 26:26 Lightning Round with Midori 26:27 BDSM Prevalence & Big Misconceptions 26:40 Overcoming Biases as Sex Professionals 27:43 The Book That Shaped Midori’s View on Desire 28:23 Empathy & Slowing Down for Relationship Safety 28:51 Why Kink-Informed Certification Matters 29:46 The Future of Sex Education & Gatekeeping RESOURCES MENTIONED THIS EPISODE: The Sexology Lab is powered by Sexual Health Alliance, a global hub for world-class certifications, cutting-edge education, and a thriving community of professionals. Many of the show's guests also share their expertise at SHA events and educational programs. Learn more at: Sexual Health Alliance: https://sexualhealthalliance.com/ Midori: https://planetmidori.com/ Sexual Health Alliance Kink Informed Certification: https://sexualhealthalliance.com/kink-informed-certification-program The Seductive Art of Japanese Bondage by Midori: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/seductive-art-of-japanese-bondage-midori/1004747883 San Francisco Sex Information (SFSI): https://www.sfsi.org/ The Kinsey Institute: https://kinseyinstitute.org/index.html Leather Archives & Museum: https://leatherarchives.org/ Carol Queen: https://carolqueen.com/ Annie Sprinkle: https://anniesprinkle.org/ Patrick Califia: https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/contributor/patrick-califia/ SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps us continue bringing thoughtful conversations about sexuality, relationships, and human behavior to listeners around the world. 🎙️ Thanks for listening to The Sexology Lab. We'll see you next week. https://www.sexologylab.com/

    Question Everything: How Japan, the Military, and Kink Shaped Midori | Episode 23

  6. Jul 30

    The Camera Has a Point of View: Arthur Brun from Erika Lust on Indie Adult Cinema | Episode 22

    Today in The Lab, we sit down with Arthur Brun, Chief Growth Officer at Erika Lust, one of the world's leading independent adult film studios. Arthur takes us behind the scenes of ethical production, cinematic storytelling, and the future of adult media, sharing how every creative decision—from who's behind the camera to how performers are supported on set—shapes the stories audiences ultimately see. This conversation explores why Erika Lust has shifted from the label "ethical porn" to "indie adult cinema," how explicit media influences culture and sex education, and the unique challenges of building a values-driven business in one of the world's most restricted industries. Whether you're interested in filmmaking, sexuality, ethics, or media, this episode offers a fascinating look inside a world few people ever get to see. Every film reflects the perspective of the people creating it—who is behind the camera matters just as much as who appears on screen.Ethical production extends far beyond performer consent; it includes communication, collaboration, representation, and creating psychologically safe working environments.Building an independent adult media company requires creativity not only in filmmaking but also in marketing, technology, and community building because traditional platforms often restrict adult content.SHOW SUMMARY: 01:35 – Arthur Brun Origin Story & Professional Background 02:48 – Industry Misconceptions & The Realities of Sex Work 03:58 – Core Principles of Erica Lust Films 05:14 – Shifting from "Ethical Porn" to an "Indie Adult Studio" 07:27 – Concrete Realities of Ethical Film Production 11:53 – Performers' Agency & Authenticity of Pleasure 13:40 – Set Dynamics & Inclusive Technical Crews 14:21 – Authenticity and Intimacy on Screen 15:24 – Ethics of Representation & The Camera's Point of View 17:58 – De-centering Heteronormative Frameworks 19:13 – Mid-Roll Break: Sexology Lab Advertisement 19:53 – Adult Media as Modern Sex Education 23:25 – Responsible Platform UX & Resisting Misogynistic SEO 26:28 – Creative Content Discoverability Without Objectification 28:07 – Leveraging Extensive Customer Surveys & Feedback 29:15 – Navigating Digital Censorship & The Return to Physical Events 32:25 – The "House of Lust" VR & Immersive Exhibition 33:44 – Global Demographics & The Strategic Power of PR 35:55 – Providing Platform Accessibility for Marginalized Groups 36:19 – Lightning Round: Success, Kindness, and Workplace Culture 37:27 – On the Desk: Previewing Erica Lust's Upcoming Memoir 38:13 – Future Guest Recommendations & Film Festival Culture RESOURCES MENTIONED THIS EPISODE: The Sexology Lab is powered by Sexual Health Alliance, a global hub for world-class certifications, cutting-edge education, and a thriving community of professionals. Many of the show's guests also share their expertise at their events. Join them at: SexualHealthAlliance.com More from this episode's guest at: Arthur Brun: https://es.linkedin.com/in/arthur-brun-barcelona Erika Lust: https://es.linkedin.com/company/erikalustLust by Erika Lust (forthcoming memoir): https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250472304/lust/ House of Erika Lust immersive exhibition: https://www.standard.co.uk/lifestyle/house-of-erikalust-exhibition-first-immersive-erotic-experience-b1218464.html SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW: If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps us reach more people who need these insights. 🎙 Thanks for tuning in to The Sexology Lab. See you next week! https://www.sexologylab.com/

    The Camera Has a Point of View: Arthur Brun from Erika Lust on Indie Adult Cinema | Episode 22

  7. Jul 23

    Five Minutes Is Not Premature: Dr. Joshua Gonzalez on How Long Men Should Last In Bed | Episode 21

    Today in The Lab, we sit down with Dr. Joshua Gonzalez, board-certified urologist, men's sexual health expert, and co-founder of Popstar Labs, to unpack the most common concerns men have about sex—and why so many suffer in silence. From erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation to fertility, testosterone, and body image, Dr. Gonzalez explains what men are actually experiencing versus what they think they should be experiencing. This conversation explores how anxiety, pornography, social media, and unrealistic expectations shape men's sexual confidence, why communication is often the most important sexual skill, and why taking a proactive approach to sexual wellness in your twenties can have lifelong benefits. We also discuss male fertility, environmental health, supplements, and why sexual health is best approached as a collaborative effort between medical providers, therapists, and other specialists. KEY TAKEAWAYS: Most sexual performance concerns are far more common than men realize, and many stem from unrealistic expectations rather than serious medical problems.Sexual wellness is deeply connected to overall health, including sleep, exercise, mental health, hormone balance, and lifestyle habits.The best time to start thinking about sexual health isn't when something goes wrong—it's before problems begin. 00:00 – Global Fertility Trends and Joshua Gonzalez Introduction 01:25 – Misconceptions and Sexual Anxiety 03:32 – Primary Sexual Health Concerns 04:18 – Breaking the Communication Barrier 05:21 – Mind-Body Connection and Confidence 07:06 – Understanding Premature Ejaculation (PE) 08:25 – Treating PE and Lasting Longer 11:41 – The Other Extreme: Delayed Ejaculation 12:59 – Men's Health Culture and Redefining Masculinity 14:54 – Mid-Show Break: Sexology Practice Guide 15:22 – Proactive Healthcare for Younger Men 17:03 – The Impact of Sexual Confidence 17:58 – The Story Behind Pop Star 20:12 – Pop Star Product Lineup 22:27 – Collaborative Care in Fertility and Proactive Testing 27:02 – Lightning Round 28:14 – Crossover and Collaborative Medical Care The Sexology Lab is powered by Sexual Health Alliance, a global hub for world-class certifications, cutting-edge education, and a thriving community of professionals. Many of the show's guests also share their expertise at their events. Join them at: SexualHealthAlliance.com  More from this episode's guest at: Dr. Joshua Gonzalez: https://joshuagonzalezmd.com/ Popstar Labs: https://www.popstarlabs.com/ SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW: If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps us reach more people who need these insights. 🎙 Thanks for tuning in to The Sexology Lab. See you next week! https://www.sexologylab.com/

    Five Minutes Is Not Premature: Dr. Joshua Gonzalez on How Long Men Should Last In Bed | Episode 21

  8. Jul 16

    Own Your Pleasure: Dr. Nicole McNichols on Better Intimacy, Better Relationships, and Less Shame | Episode 20

    Today in The Lab, we sit down with Dr. Nicole McNichols, clinical psychologist, professor, author of You Could Be Having Better Sex, and the instructor of one of the largest human sexuality courses in the United States. Teaching more than 4,000 students each year, Dr. McNichols has a front-row seat to how Gen Z thinks about sex, relationships, consent, and intimacy—and the trends may surprise you. From pornography and performance anxiety to planning intimacy and understanding pleasure, this conversation explores why so many people are having less sex while feeling more pressure than ever. Dr. McNichols explains why communication—not perfection—is the key to better sex and why pleasure deserves to be treated as an essential part of overall well-being. KEY TAKEAWAYS: Gen Z is entering adulthood with less formal sex education, more exposure to pornography, and increasing pressure to perform rather than connect.Better sex begins with understanding your body, communicating openly, and letting go of unrealistic expectations.Planning intimacy, prioritizing pleasure, and building emotional connection can strengthen both sexual satisfaction and long-term relationships.SHOW SUMMARY: 00:00 – Intro and expectations vs. reality of sex 02:00 – Modern intimacy and the gaps in modern sex education 04:15 – Diversity and guest speakers in the classroom 05:01 – Gen Z sex and relationship trends 08:26 – Emphasizing a growth mindset and normalising sexual awkwardness 10:28 – The book "You Could Be Having Better Sex" and the Hierarchy of Sexual Needs 16:44 – The myth of spontaneous sex 20:05 – Sexual satisfaction as a driver of relationship satisfaction 23:18 – Exploring different types of intimacy and the power of non-sexual touch 26:40 – Who the book "You Could Be Having Better Sex" is written for 27:58 – The book-writing process and translating sex science research 29:45 – Promoting the book and its mainstream reception 31:33 – Closing billboard message: "Own your pleasure" RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE The Sexology Lab is powered by Sexual Health Alliance, a global hub for world-class certifications, cutting-edge education, and a thriving community of professionals. Many of the show's guests also share their expertise at their events. Join them at: SexualHealthAlliance.com S//xology Lab Practice Guide: ⁠https://www.sexologylab.com/guide⁠More from this episode's guest at: Dr. Nicole McNichols:https://nicolethesexprofessor.com/about-nicole/ You Could Be Having Better Sex: https://nicolethesexprofessor.com/   University of Washington Human Sexuality Course: https://psych.uw.edu/people/2464 SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW: If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps us reach more people who need these insights. 🎙 Thanks for tuning in to The Sexology Lab. See you next week! https://www.sexologylab.com/

    Own Your Pleasure: Dr. Nicole McNichols on Better Intimacy, Better Relationships, and Less Shame | Episode 20
See All (28)

Trailer

3.9
out of 5
38 Ratings

About

The conversation on human potential is incomplete without erotic intelligence. The Sexology Lab is where intimacy meets science, and where curiosity replaces shame. Each week, we step inside The Lab with the most compelling minds in modern sexology: pioneering researchers, visionary clinicians, sextech innovators, cultural disruptors, and leading educators. Together, we explore the questions shaping the future of desire, connection, and human wellness. This isn’t a podcast about the physical act. It’s a podcast about being human. Subscribe and join us as redefine wellness.

Information

  • Creator
    sexologylab
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    28
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © sexologylab
  • Show Website
    The Sexology Lab