Better Sex

Jessa Zimmerman
  • 4.8 (131)
  • ALTERNATIVE HEALTH
  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY
Better Sex

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.

  1. 1D AGO

    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 strategies to maintain intimacy and pleasure. Dr. Sophocles also highlights the need for better medical education on menopause and offers practical advice on using lubricants and testosterone therapy to enhance sexual well-being during midlife. 00:00 Introduction to Better Sex 00:50 Discussing Menopause with Dr. Maria Sophocles 02:03 The Importance of Addressing Sexual Health 08:42 Understanding the Bedroom Gap 16:31 Challenges in Medical Education and Sexual Health 19:09 Misconceptions About Estrogen Therapy 20:35 The Financial Benefits of Estrogen Therapy 21:04 Maintaining Genital Health with Vaginal Estrogen 22:11 The Role of Lubricants in Sexual Health 23:54 Communicating About Sexual Health in Midlife 24:24 Rehabilitating Vaginal Tissue 26:45 Addressing Trauma and Therapy in Sexual Health 27:41 The Importance of Communication in Sex Therapy 29:23 Enhancing Sexual Desire Through Erotic Media 33:34 Testosterone and Female Libido 34:51 Resources and Final Thoughts Interested in my podcasts about desire discrepancy: www.desirediscrepancy.com Bio: Maria has been a practicing gynecologist for 29 years and is an internationally respected expert in menopause and female sexual function. She is the founder of Women's Healthcare of Princeton, a progressive gynecology practice serving over 30,000 women in the U.S. To meet the needs of international and remote U.S. patients, in 2024 she launched The Thinking Woman, a virtual consultation practice. She completed a BA in English with honors and distinction from Duke University, attended medical School at Jefferson Medical College and completed her residency at Johns Hopkins Hospital’s Greater Baltimore Medical Center. She is board certified in ob/gyn, a certified menopause practitioner, and has been named a fellow to national societies (ISSVD and ISSWSH) for her contributions to gynecology. As one of the first U.S clinicians to recognize the need for a non-estrogen option to treat vaginal atrophy, in 2015 she pioneered the use of Co2 Laser in the U.S.; she has taught clinicians this technology on five continents. A passionate advocate for reproductive freedom and contraceptive access, she fought for seven years alongside Senator Shirley Turner to achieve passage of New Jersey Bill S275, a part of the historic Freedom of Reproductive Choice Act which became law in 2023. Appalled by the pervasiveness of the gendered healthcare gap, she is developing a Women’s Health clinic in rural Kenya. Her TED talk “What Happens to Sex in Midlife” has garnered nearly a million views and her forthcoming book, The Bedroom Gap will be released in late 2025. She is currently at work on a documentary about Sex, Menopause and Gender Equality called HOT!. She is married with four children. https://www.mariasophoclesmd.com Instagram: @mariasophoclesmd - https://www.instagram.com/mariasophoclesmd/ TED Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/maria_sophocles_what_happens_to_sex_in_midlife_a_look_at_the_bedroom_gap?language=en 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 is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.com The Course – https://www.intimacywithease.com The Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.com Podcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.com Access the Free webinar: Intimacy Made Easy: 3 Secrets to Bridging Libido Differences: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

    39 min

  2. 5D AGO

    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 sex life by adapting to these changes instead of misconstruing them as a loss of attraction. Finally, she emphasizes the importance of deepening connections beyond physical appearances for long-term sexual fulfillment. 00:00 Introduction to Better Sex Podcast 00:58 Understanding Desire vs. Attraction 02:48 The Shift from Proactive to Reactive Desire 04:45 The Role of Brain Chemistry in Desire 06:26 Adapting to Changes in Attraction 07:44 Conclusion and Listener Engagement 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 is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.com The Course – https://www.intimacywithease.com The Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.com Podcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.com Access the Free webinar: Intimacy Made Easy: 3 Secrets to Bridging Libido Differences: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

    9 min

  3. JUN 30

    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 explains her workshops, designed to help people connect deeper with their bodies and build meaningful, intimate relationships. This episode emphasizes the need for graduated risks, learning to feel and process emotions, and the power of in-person connections. 00:00 Introduction to Better Sex 00:55 Meet Ros Dischiavo: Expert in Sexuality Education 03:09 The Shift to Public Workshops 07:38 Understanding Intimacy Levels 13:47 The Concept of Embodied Receiving 20:14 The Misconception of Mindfulness 20:57 The Fascination of Embodied Presence 22:55 The Impact of Advertising on Relaxation 24:39 Defining Deep Practice 25:01 Practicing Embodied Receiving 30:34 The Importance of In-Person Workshops 34:59 Distinguishing Sexual from Erotic 38:49 About the Institute for Sex Education and Enlightenment 40:19 Conclusion and Listener Engagement Interested in a bunch of resources about desire discrepancy? Visit: https://www.desirediscrepancy.com Bio: Dr. Rosalyn Dischiavo is the Founder and Director of Institute for Sex Education and Enlightenment, a professional training program for clinicians, therapists and educators. She was President of the American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT) from 2022-2024 and served as Professional Education Steering Committee Chair on the AASECT Board of Directors from 2018-2020. She is the author of “The Deep Yes: The Lost Art of True Receiving.” Roz is a professor, author, an AASECT Certified Sexuality Educator (CSE) and Sex Educator Supervisor (CSES), She has a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy and a Doctor of Education in Human Sexuality. She was also co-host of a women's interest radio show on TIC FM in Hartford, CT, and brings humor and insight into all of her education. 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 is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.com The Course – https://www.intimacywithease.com The Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.com Podcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.com Access the Free webinar: Intimacy Made Easy: 3 Secrets to Bridging Libido Differences: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

    42 min

  4. JUN 26

    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 easy, natural, and fun, and offers resources through her platform 'Intimacy with Ease' to help achieve this transformation. 00:00 Introduction to Better Sex Podcast 00:45 The Power of Positivity in Sex Life 01:22 Understanding the Struggles in Sexual Relationships 03:08 Creating Hope and Positivity 05:24 Envisioning a Positive Sexual Relationship 06:00 Taking Action Towards Improvement 07:43 Resources for Transformation 08:03 Conclusion and Listener Engagement 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 is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.com The Course – https://www.intimacywithease.com The Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.com Podcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.com Access the Free webinar: Intimacy Made Easy: 3 Secrets to Bridging Libido Differences: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

    10 min

  5. JUN 23

    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 relationships and infidelity recovery. The conversation deepens the understanding of trust, forgiveness, and the need for both partners to address their personal wounds in the path to healing. 00:00 Introduction 00:45 Guest Introduction 00:45 Dr. Elliott Kronenfeld on Infidelity 02:04 Understanding Infidelity 02:46 Stages of Infidelity Recovery 07:01 The Concepts of Forgiveness, Trust, and Security 22:43 Crisis and Trauma Phase 23:35 The Reality Phase 24:26 Rebuilding Trust and Security 30:49 Challenges in Infidelity Recovery 44:38 Conclusion Want to work with Jessa? https://www.intimacywithease.com Bio: Dr. Kronenfeld is an internationally known author, sex therapist, educator, TEDx speaker, veteran, and yoga teacher. His work has focused on helping people find, maintain, and grow their best relationships even when faced with the challenges of infertility, infidelity, challenged intimacy, parenting, and other complex life situations. He is a frequent guest on podcasts and other media outlets talking about the realities of relationships. As a university educator, he teaches sex and gender in China and the U.S. at the master’s and doctoral levels. Elliott is often on the road giving keynote talks and lectures at government agencies, universities, national organizations, conferences, and private practices on topics that relate to the human experience. He is the author of Couples by Intention and the new release, Unspoken Loss: Men, Infidelity, and Disenfranchisded Grief. A lover of travel, Elliott has been on every continent and brings his cultural experience and sensitivity to his work because he believes the human experience has commonality and uniqueness at the same time. He currently lives in Maine with his family where he is a yoga practitioner and constantly planning his next journey somewhere across the globe. www.drelliottk.com 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 is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.com The Course – https://www.intimacywithease.com The Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.com Podcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.com Access the Free webinar: Intimacy Made Easy: 3 Secrets to Bridging Libido Differences: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

    46 min

  6. JUN 19

    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 invites listeners to seek further help through her courses and therapy sessions. 00:00 Introduction to Better Sex 00:56 Understanding Desire Discrepancies 02:35 Challenges Faced by Higher Desire Partners 03:11 Challenges Faced by Lower Desire Partners 04:25 Creating a Shared Vision for Intimacy 05:54 Inviting Lower Desire Partners into a New Vision 08:06 Conclusion and Resources 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 is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.com The Course – https://www.intimacywithease.com The Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.com Podcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.com Access the Free webinar: Intimacy Made Easy: 3 Secrets to Bridging Libido Differences: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

    10 min

  7. JUN 16

    297: Revitalizing your sex life when you have young kids with Lauren Ditzian

    In this episode of Better Sex, host Jessa Zimmerman discusses how parents can maintain a thriving sex life despite the challenges of raising young kids. Joined by special guest Lauren Ditzian, a couples and sex therapist, they explore common issues such as desire discrepancy, feeling touched-out, and managing resentment. They also offer practical advice on communication strategies, redefining sex, and prioritizing intimacy amidst the chaos of parenting. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 01:06 Guest Introduction: Lauren Ditzian 01:42 Lauren's Journey Into Sex Therapy for Parents 06:50 Common Challenges for Parents' Sex Lives 07:38 Desire Discrepancy Issues 10:25 Strategies for Rekindling Intimacy 17:37 Managing Resentment and Communication 22:58 Key Takeaways and Closing Remarks Desire discrepancy podcasts available at: https://www.desiredisrepancy.com Bio: Lauren Ditzian is a licensed Marriage and Family therapist in Massachusetts and California and an AASECT certified sex therapist specializing in working with parents of young children. She is passionate about helping couples discover deeper connection and new pleasure in this stage of their sexual journey together. 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 is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.com The Course – https://www.intimacywithease.com The Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.com Podcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.com Access the Free webinar: Intimacy Made Easy: 3 Secrets to Bridging Libido Differences: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

    27 min

  8. JUN 12

    296: [Personal Story] Our six year drought is over

    In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host and sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman welcomes a former student who shares his personal journey of overcoming years of intimacy struggles in his marriage. The guest recounts how early retirement and his wife's menopause led to a five-year period of no sexual contact, deteriorating communication, and his eventual realization of the depth of his wife's unhappiness. He discusses the transformative impact of joining Jess’s program, which guided him to listen actively, practice mindfulness, and change his behavior. The episode provides a heartfelt exploration of how vulnerability, patience, and open-hearted communication can lead to profound relationship improvements, culminating in a complete turnaround in their sex life and emotional connection. 00:00 Introduction to Better Sex Podcast 00:45 A Personal Story of Struggles and Triumphs 02:16 The Beginning of the Journey 04:50 Facing the Reality of Intimacy Issues 06:00 The Turning Point: Joining the Program 08:00 Transformative Changes and New Insights 11:08 Deepening Communication and Understanding 14:45 The Impact of Active Listening 18:28 Overcoming Challenges Together 23:08 Reflecting on the Journey and Moving Forward 24:58 Discovering the Exit Plan 25:18 Slow Progress and Patience 29:04 Positive Shifts in the Relationship 35:18 A Dramatic Change 44:33 Advice for Others in Similar Situations 46:58 Conclusion and Gratitude Want to inspire and help others by sharing your story anonymously? Email us at info@intimacywithease.com 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 is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.com The Course – https://www.intimacywithease.com The Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.com Podcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.com Access the Free webinar: Intimacy Made Easy: 3 Secrets to Bridging Libido Differences: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

    50 min
See All (250)

4.8
out of 5
131 Ratings

About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Jessa Zimmerman
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2025
  • Episodes
    250
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Intimacy with Ease LLC All Rights Reserved.
  • Show Website
    Better Sex

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