Ask A Sex Therapist with Heather Shannon

Heather Shannon
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  • SEXUALITY
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Ask A Sex Therapist with Heather Shannon

Ask a Sex Therapist is for you if you are ready to spice up your sex life. You are ready to learn all the things you were never taught about sex, intimacy and great communication in the bedroom. You are excited to explore your own body and feel more connected to your partner. You want to feel body confident, allow yourself to experience greater sexual pleasure and feel accepted for your fantasies and desires. If you are ready to take your relationship to the next level, get rid of the shame and stigma around sex and create happier, more fulfilling love life, this is the show for you. Hosted by Heather Shannon, Certified Sex Therapist, you'll be taken on a journey to release your sexual inhibitions and embrace your authentic sexual identity. Because it's time for you to Ask a Sex Therapist. Find out more about Heather's work and ask her your (anonymous) sex questions at https://HeatherShannon.co. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

  1. 3D AGO

    EP. 126 Why You’re Distracted During Sex—And How Mindfulness Can Help.

    Apply for a free Intimacy Breakthrough Call to learn about Heather’s Pathway to Passion coaching method. https://heathershannon.co/new-clients/ Mindfulness, Presence & Pleasure: A Conversation with Naomi Rawitz In this episode, Heather is joined by fellow AASECT-Certified Sex Therapist and Sexuality Educator Naomi Rawitz, LCSW, CST, CSE, for a warm, honest, and deeply insightful conversation around the role of mindfulness in sex. Naomi opens up about her journey into sex therapy, how her upbringing shaped her perspective, and why our culture makes it so difficult to stay present in our bodies. Together, they explore the real reasons we get distracted during sex, how internal “parts” (à la Internal Family Systems therapy) can hijack our pleasure, and why mindfulness doesn’t mean you have to “clear your mind.”   Whether you’ve ever felt pressured to perform, overwhelmed with distractions, or just curious about how to deepen your connection to yourself or a partner—this episode offers practical tools, validating insights, and a ton of “aha” moments.   00:00 Welcome & Intro to Naomi 02:00 Naomi’s Path to Becoming a Sex Therapist 04:00 Growing Up with Open Sex Education 05:00 Presence, Distraction & the Sexual Mindset 09:00 How Mindfulness Actually Works (It’s Not “Clearing Your Mind”) 12:00 Communicating with Your Partner About Where You're At 14:00 Mindfulness, Emotional Intimacy & Data Points 17:00 What is Internal Family Systems (IFS)? 19:00 Common Parts That Show Up During Sex 23:00 Productivity, Energy, and “Sex as a To-Do” 26:00 Reconnecting with Play & Joy (Yes, Improv Counts!) 30:00 Expanding Definitions of Sexual Touch 33:00 The Pressure to “Go All the Way” 34:00 How Stories and Anticipation Impact Desire 38:00 Polyvagal Theory & Shifting Nervous System States 41:00 Creating Space to Explore Without Judgment 43:00 Where to Find Naomi WORK WITH HEATHER Apply for a free Intimacy Breakthrough Call to learn about Heather’s Pathway to Passion coaching method. https://heathershannon.co/new-clients/   LET’S CONNECT! Find warmth HERE ⤵️: Heather’s Website: https://HeatherShannon.co  Heather’s Instagram: https://instagram.com/AskASexTherapist  Heather’s YouTube: Check out the video version of this podcast & more! - https://www.youtube.com/@AskASexCoach   Heather’s Pathway to Passion: https://heather-shannon.mykajabi.com/pathway  Heather’s Courses: https://heather-shannon.mykajabi.com/store Heather’s Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/heathershannonlcpc  Connect with Naomi Rawitz naomi@rawitzcounseling.com Learn more: https://www.rawitzcounseling.com SIMILARLY AWESOME / MENTIONED EPISODES: Liked the episode? Here’s a few more episodes of Ask A Sex Therapist that you'll enjoy: Age Play Video:...

    46 min

  2. APR 7

    Ep. 125: Sexual Myths Busted: Empowering Women's Desires ft Dr. Jenn Kennedy

    Apply for a free Intimacy Breakthrough Call to learn about Heather’s Pathway to Passion coaching method. https://heathershannon.co/new-clients/ In this episode, we welcome Dr. Jen Kennedy, a clinical sexologist and licensed marriage and family therapist, to discuss low sexual desire in women. Dr. Jen explains how societal norms and lack of adequate sex education contribute to myths about women's sexual desire. She describes her journey from public relations and photography to sex therapy and the nuances of working with couples on their intimate lives. Dr. Jen also touches on techniques such as Sense8 Focus and discusses the importance of understanding one's own pleasure profile. Throughout the conversation, they debunk common misconceptions, emphasize the importance of addressing both physical and psychological barriers to desire, and highlight the need for open dialogue about sexual health. Dr. Jen also hosts her own podcast called The Pleasure Project Podcast: Sex and Relationships. (https://www.youtube.com/@drjennkennedy) For more information, you can visit her websites at Riviera Therapy (https://riviera-therapy.com) and Pleasure Project (https://pleasureproject.us). 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:22 Meet Dr. Jen Kennedy 01:08 Discussing Low Sexual Desire in Women 01:44 Dr. Jen's Journey to Becoming a Sexologist 02:53 Training and Challenges in Sex Therapy 05:19 Understanding Sexual Attitudes and Fixations 07:39 Exploring Women's Sexual Desire 10:40 Cultural and Biological Factors in Sexual Desire 13:49 Reconnecting Through Sensate Focus 19:27 Therapist's Role in Normalizing Intimacy 20:19 Debunking Myths About Women's Desire 20:38 Exploring Fantasies and Initiating Desire 20:59 The Power of Open Conversations About Sex 23:28 Understanding and Enhancing Pleasure Profiles 29:25 The Importance of Play and Relaxation in Sex 31:56 Addressing Deterrents and Cultivating Stimulators 34:07 Seeking Help and Professional Guidance 35:38 Resources and Upcoming Programs 38:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts WORK WITH HEATHER Apply for a free Intimacy Breakthrough Call to learn about Heather’s Pathway to Passion coaching method. https://heathershannon.co/new-clients/ LET’S CONNECT! Find warmth HERE ⤵️: Heather’s Website: https://HeatherShannon.co Heather’s Instagram: https://instagram.com/AskASexTherapist Heather’s YouTube: Check out the video version of this podcast & more! - https://www.youtube.com/@AskASexCoach Heather’s Pathway to Passion: https://heather-shannon.mykajabi.com/pathway Heather’s Courses: https://heather-shannon.mykajabi.com/store Heather’s Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/heathershannonlcpc Connect with : Dr. Jenn Kennedy Email: Jenn@PleasureProject.us or jennkennedy@me.com SIMILARLY AWESOME / MENTIONED EPISODES: Liked the episode? Here’s a few more episodes of Ask A Sex Therapist that you'll enjoy: Age Play Video: https://youtu.be/TURlpFGTTOk? si=ISQI-s-TBuVo2xIm Sex and Disability Video: https://youtu.be/jPKzoXg3-kI? si=6aQnWzlwWguXXIA8 Come As You Are Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1982165316?...

    40 min

  3. MAR 31

    Ep.124: Listener's Q&A

    Managing Libido Differences, Attachment Issues, and Non-Monogamy | Ask a Sex Therapist In this episode, we address listener questions on managing different libidos, the impact of attachment styles on sexual development, and challenges in non-monogamy. We also discuss reconnecting with sexual energy after leaving a sexless marriage. Tune in for insights and practical advice on enhancing your relationships and sex life. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:52 Managing Different Libidos in Relationships 07:38 Exploring Attachment Styles and Sexual Development 11:07 Navigating Non-Monogamy and Relationship Anarchy 20:01 Reconnecting with Sexuality After a Dead Bedroom Marriage 28:27 Conclusion and Resources WORK WITH HEATHER: Apply for a free Intimacy Breakthrough Call to learn about Heather’s Pathway to Passion coaching method. https://heathershannon.co/new-clients/ LET’S CONNECT! FIND HEATHER HERE ⤵️: Heather’s Website - https://HeatherShannon.co Heather’s Instagram - https://instagram.com/AskASexTherapist Heather’s YouTube - Check out the video version of this podcast & more! - https://www.youtube.com/@AskASexCoach Heather’s Pathway to Passion- https://heather-shannon.mykajabi.com/pathway Heather’s Courses- https://heather-shannon.mykajabi.com/store Heather’s Amazon Storefront- https://www.amazon.com/shop/heathershannonlcpc SIMILARLY AWESOME / MENTIONED EPISODES: Liked the episode? Here’s a few more episodes of Ask A Sex Therapist that you'll enjoy: Libido Differences in Relationships: https://youtu.be/dI0mElkmPAw?si=oU3P2oi_R_c8_lvS How to Have a Passionate Relationship Workshop: https://youtu.be/csFgP6zv_ck?si=h_3wLTPkuhL7DAk5 RATE & REVIEW US! Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here. https://podfollow.com/AskASexTherapist This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

    31 min

  4. MAR 24

    Ep. 123: Sexual Performance Anxiety & the Myths Holding You Back

    Apply for a free Intimacy Breakthrough Call to learn about Heather’s Pathway to Passion coaching method. https://heathershannon.co/new-clients/ Premature Ejaculation & Sex Addiction Myths: The Truth About Male Sexual Health with Sex Therapist Seth Taylor, LMFT Most men have been misled about sexual performance, from unrealistic expectations around lasting longer to harmful myths about "sex addiction." In this episode, Heather Shannon sits down with Seth Taylor, a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in men’s sexual health, to set the record straight. They discuss the real causes of premature ejaculation (PE), effective treatments, and why the term "sex addiction" is controversial among sex therapists. Plus, they explore the shame-free approach to out-of-control sexual behavior (OCSB) and how it differs from traditional addiction models. If you or your partner experience PE, erectile dysfunction (ED), or compulsive sexual behaviors, this episode will help you understand the root causes and practical steps to regain confidence in your sex life. 00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Introduction 01:30 Meet Seth Taylor: Specializing in men’s sexual health 03:00 What is premature ejaculation? Clinical definitions & myths 08:45 Why most men have unrealistic expectations about lasting longer 12:30 The psychological causes of PE: Anxiety, shame and trauma 18:00 Effective treatments: Medication, therapy and pelvic floor work 22:45 What is out-of-control sexual behavior (OCSB)? 30:00 The problem with "sex addiction" & why language matters 40:30 How to overcome shame and build a healthy relationship with sex 50:00 Final thoughts and where to find Seth WORK WITH HEATHER Apply for a free Intimacy Breakthrough Call to learn about Heather’s Pathway to Passion coaching method. https://heathershannon.co/new-clients/   LET’S CONNECT! Find warmth HERE ⤵️: Heather’s Website: https://HeatherShannon.co  Heather’s Instagram: https://instagram.com/AskASexTherapist  Heather’s YouTube: Check out the video version of this podcast & more! - https://www.youtube.com/@AskASexCoach   Heather’s Pathway to Passion: https://heather-shannon.mykajabi.com/pathway  Heather’s Courses: https://heather-shannon.mykajabi.com/store Heather’s Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/heathershannonlcpc  Connect with Seth Taylor: Email: setht@holisticcft.com SIMILARLY AWESOME / MENTIONED EPISODES: Liked the episode? Here’s a few more episodes of Ask A Sex Therapist that you'll enjoy: Age Play Video: https://youtu.be/TURlpFGTTOk? si=ISQI-s-TBuVo2xIm  Sex and Disability Video: https://youtu.be/jPKzoXg3-kI? si=6aQnWzlwWguXXIA8  Come As You Are Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1982165316? a...

    53 min

  5. MAR 17

    Ep. 122 How to get your woman to want more sex

    Want to be a better lover? Here are my top 5 ways to help your woman feel more desire for sex. In this episode of 'Ask a Sex Therapist,' we explore the top 5 methods to help your woman feel more desire for sex. From simple reminders and genuine compliments to creating emotional safety and helping her relax, these expert tips are based on years of counseling experience. Watch to learn how to foster a closer, more intimate relationship! 00:00 Introduction to Increasing Sexual Desire 00:10 Top 5 Ways to Increase Her Desire: Overview 00:55 #5: Remind Her of Sex 03:26 #4: Compliment Her Appearance 07:06 #3: Be an Emotional Safe Space 10:29 #2: Help Her Relax 15:05 #1: Listen to Her 20:50 Recap and Final Thoughts WORK WITH HEATHER: Apply for a free Intimacy Breakthrough Call to learn about Heather’s Pathway to Passion coaching method. https://heathershannon.co/new-clients/ LET’S CONNECT! FIND HEATHER HERE ⤵️: Heather’s Website - https://HeatherShannon.co Heather’s Instagram - https://instagram.com/AskASexTherapist Heather’s YouTube - Check out the video version of this podcast & more! - https://www.youtube.com/@AskASexCoach Heather’s Pathway to Passion- https://heather-shannon.mykajabi.com/pathway Heather’s Courses- https://heather-shannon.mykajabi.com/store Heather’s Amazon Storefront- https://www.amazon.com/shop/heathershannonlcpc SIMILARLY AWESOME / MENTIONED EPISODES: Liked the episode? Here’s a few more episodes of Ask A Sex Therapist that you'll enjoy: Libido Differences in Relationships: https://youtu.be/dI0mElkmPAw?si=oU3P2oi_R_c8_lvS How to Have a Passionate Relationship Workshop: https://youtu.be/csFgP6zv_ck?si=h_3wLTPkuhL7DAk5 RATE & REVIEW US! Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here. https://podfollow.com/AskASexTherapist This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

    23 min

  6. MAR 10

    Ep. 121: Is Porn Ruining my Relationship? An Adult Star’s Perspective ft Pepper Kat

    Apply for a free Intimacy Breakthrough Call to learn about Heather’s Pathway to Passion coaching method. https://heathershannon.co/new-clients/   Breaking Boundaries with Pepper Cat: Exploring Male Loneliness, Porn Myths, and Sex Work Realities In this episode, we sit down with Pepper Cat, the host of Spicy Spectrum Podcast and founder of Design Your Dream Girl, to discuss her journey to the adult entertainment industry. We delve into the complexities of male loneliness, myths about porn, the human side of pornography, and how couples can navigate porn consumption in their relationships. Tune in for a refreshing and candid conversation about the realities of sex work and its impact on personal fulfilment and connection. 00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Introduction 01:20 Pepper Cat's Journey from News to Adult Entertainment 04:26 Discussing Myths and Misconceptions About Porn 07:29 Navigating Porn in Relationships 10:43 Exploring Fantasies and Kinks 21:03 The Human Side of Porn and Personal Growth 28:34 Final Thoughts and Where to Find Pepper Cat WORK WITH HEATHER: Apply for a free Intimacy Breakthrough Call to learn about Heather’s Pathway to Passion coaching method. https://heathershannon.co/new-clients/   LET’S CONNECT! FIND HEATHER HERE ⤵️: Heather’s Website - https://HeatherShannon.co  Heather’s Instagram - https://instagram.com/AskASexTherapist  Heather’s YouTube - Check out the video version of this podcast & more! - https://www.youtube.com/@AskASexCoach   Heather’s Pathway to Passion- https://heather-shannon.mykajabi.com/pathway  Heather’s Courses- https://heather-shannon.mykajabi.com/store Heather’s Amazon Storefront- https://www.amazon.com/shop/heathershannonlcpc  Connect with Pepper Cat: Podcast Website: https://www.spicyspectrumpodcast.com/  Design Your Dream Girl site: https://www.pepperkat.com/designyourdreamgirl  SIMILARLY AWESOME / MENTIONED EPISODES: Liked the episode? Here’s a few more episodes of Ask A Sex Therapist that you'll enjoy: Age Play Video: https://youtu.be/TURlpFGTTOk?si=ISQI-s-TBuVo2xIm  Sex and Disability Video a href="https://youtu.be/jPKzoXg3-kI?si=6aQnWzlwWguXXIA8" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    33 min

  7. MAR 3

    Ep. 120 The Key to Unlocking Passion in Longterm Relationships

    Interested in working with Heather? Apply for a free Intimacy Breakthrough Call to learn about Heather’s Pathway to Passion coaching method. https://heathershannon.co/new-clients/ Unlocking Passion: The Link Between Emotional Intimacy and Fulfilling Sex In this episode, we delve into the critical role emotional intimacy plays in a fulfilling sex life. Drawing from personal experiences and client work, we discuss the importance of resolving emotional barriers to enhance sexual connection. Learn how feeling truly seen, understood, and safe with your partner can ignite your sexual energy. Discover actionable steps to build emotional intimacy, including creating a secure space for honest communication and understanding the connection between physical and emotional vulnerability. Tune in for insights that can transform your relational dynamics for the better. 00:00 Introduction to Emotional Intimacy and Sex 00:43 The Role of Emotional Intimacy in a Fulfilling Sex Life 01:59 Understanding the Brakes and Gas Pedals of Sex Drive 04:27 Vulnerability: The Link Between Emotional and Physical Intimacy 11:33 Building Emotional Intimacy: Practical Tips 20:08 Honest Communication and Its Importance 23:08 Conclusion and Next Steps LET’S CONNECT! FIND HEATHER HERE ⤵️: Heather’s Website - https://HeatherShannon.co Heather’s Instagram - https://instagram.com/AskASexTherapist Heather’s YouTube - Check out the video version of this podcast & more! - https://www.youtube.com/@AskASexCoach Heather’s Pathway to Passion- https://heather-shannon.mykajabi.com/pathway Heather’s Courses- https://heather-shannon.mykajabi.com/store Heather’s Amazon Storefront- https://www.amazon.com/shop/heathershannonlcpc Come As You Are Book https://www.amazon.com/dp/1982165316?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzheat0ce5-20&creativeASIN=1982165316&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.29BK4OTJWL4UF&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin SIMILARLY AWESOME / MENTIONED EPISODES: Liked the episode? Here’s a few more episodes of Ask A Sex Therapist that you'll enjoy: Ep. 7: The Libido Issue | Ask A Sex Therapist Podcast https://youtu.be/hEvbEHqIfA8?si=96gr_czHjWoynwvz Ep. 118 Are You Navigating Different Libidos in Relationships? Top Tips for Connection https://youtu.be/dI0mElkmPAw RATE & REVIEW US! Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here. https://podfollow.com/AskASexTherapist This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

    26 min

  8. FEB 24

    Ep. 119 Secrets from the Porn Industry From Brazzers to Porn Hub: The Journey of Vic LaGina

    Apply for a free Intimacy Breakthrough Call to learn about Heather’s Pathway to Passion coaching method. https://heathershannon.co/new-clients/   From Porn Industry to Author: The Journey of Vic LaGina In this episode, we sit down with Vic LaGina, a former producer and director in the adult entertainment industry who has transitioned to becoming an author. Vic recounts his 20-year career, the challenges he faced, and the path that led him to write his novel, 'Filthy: The Rise and Pending Death of Vic LaGina.' We delve into his experiences, from the surreal beginning of his career in Los Angeles to the ethical dilemmas and dark realities of the porn industry. Vic shares candid insights on consent, the impact of COVID-19 on the industry, and his personal journey through addiction and recovery. Tune in for a raw and unfiltered conversation that explores the complexities and transformations of a life in porn. 00:00 Introduction to Vic LaGina 00:26 Vic's Journey into the Adult Entertainment Industry 02:21 The Move to LA and Personal Struggles 05:31 First Steps in the Porn Industry 07:04 Building a Career in Porn 10:17 Challenges and Realities of the Porn Industry 15:26 Personal Reflections and Relationships 29:46 Struggles with Addiction 30:26 Turbulent Relationships 31:54 Cleaning Up and Moving On 33:00 Drug Use in the Porn Industry 33:31 Consent and Compliance Challenges 47:31 The Future of Porn 54:44 Ethical Porn and Final Thoughts WORK WITH HEATHER: Apply for a free Intimacy Breakthrough Call to learn about Heather’s Pathway to Passion coaching method. https://heathershannon.co/new-clients/   LET’S CONNECT! FIND HEATHER HERE ⤵️: Heather’s Website - https://HeatherShannon.co  Heather’s Instagram - https://instagram.com/AskASexTherapist  Heather’s YouTube - Check out the video version of this podcast & more! - https://www.youtube.com/@AskASexCoach   Heather’s Pathway to Passion- https://heather-shannon.mykajabi.com/pathway  Heather’s Courses- https://heather-shannon.mykajabi.com/store Heather’s Amazon Storefront- https://www.amazon.com/shop/heathershannonlcpc  Connect with Vic LaGina: Vic’s website with book information: https://viclagina.com/ Vic’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viclagina/  Vic’s X: https://x.com/viclagina  SIMILARLY AWESOME...

    59 min
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Ask a Sex Therapist is for you if you are ready to spice up your sex life. You are ready to learn all the things you were never taught about sex, intimacy and great communication in the bedroom. You are excited to explore your own body and feel more connected to your partner. You want to feel body confident, allow yourself to experience greater sexual pleasure and feel accepted for your fantasies and desires. If you are ready to take your relationship to the next level, get rid of the shame and stigma around sex and create happier, more fulfilling love life, this is the show for you. Hosted by Heather Shannon, Certified Sex Therapist, you'll be taken on a journey to release your sexual inhibitions and embrace your authentic sexual identity. Because it's time for you to Ask a Sex Therapist. Find out more about Heather's work and ask her your (anonymous) sex questions at https://HeatherShannon.co. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

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