Intimacy Matters Real Relating with Nicola Foster

Coping With Adversity In Relationship: Communication, Self-Care, and SupportEpisode Summary: This episode explores how partnerships are tested by life’s challenging events like illness, bereavement, miscarriage, and unemployment. We discuss how stress can take couples out of sync, and provide strategies for navigating tough times together.Key Topics Discussed:We start by examining the impact of significant life events on relationships, highlighting how stress disrupts daily life. Often, coupl...

Prepare to dive into the wonderful world of sexual fantasy in this episode. We'll uncover the prevalence of fantasy in human sexuality and its vital role in exploring desires and boundaries. From understanding the functions of fantasy to exploring popular categories like multi-partner sex, taboo acts, and gender role exploration, we'll provide practical insights and tips for talking about fantasy without tears!Learn how open communication and shared exploration of fantasies can deepen intimac...

In this episode we welcome erotic author Anna Sansom. We chat to Anna about all things erotic - and how we can get in touch with our own desires through creativity, even when it might feel really challenging. We also discuss her book Desire Lines - part memoir, part guide to reclaiming our erotic nature. Anna is a queer cis woman (pronouns: she/her) who is endlessly curious about how we experience and express our unique sexual selves. She started writing erotica over two decades a...

Endings, though difficult, are an essential part of life. Whether it's a breakup, divorce, or the loss of a loved one, endings can be traumatic. In the podcast we talk about how society often downplays the significance of endings, offering clichés like "plenty more fish in the sea," which fails to acknowledge the pain and complexity of separation.Research shows that the pain of a breakup can trigger physical responses similar to those of physical injury. Heartbreak is real and can have a prof...

Welcome to the latest episode of the Intimacy Mattters podcast where we dive into intimacy and relationships. Highlights of this episode include:Sex Frequency: How often is "normal"?Spontaneous vs. Responsive Desire: Why knowing the difference makes ALL the difference.Navigating Differences: Contrary to popular belief, sex can improve with time through exploration, communication, and a shift away from performance-based attitudes.Initiation Strategies: We share some playful app...

In this episode, hosts Nicola and Jason dive into the crucial topic of consent within established relationships. We explore the dynamics of consent using the "wheel of consent" framework, addressing common questions and concerns about ongoing consent. Emphasizing open communication and mutual respect, we reflect on our own experiences with non-consensual touch and discuss practical ways to ensure boundaries are respected.Consent isn't just a one-time conversation—it's an ongoing dialogue that...