Money is a major source of stress for so many people. We’re always thinking about it, talking about it, and worrying about it. But it’s rare that we think about the way that money affects our sexual relationships. Listen in to our conversation with Master Certified Ontological Coach, Tracey Burns, as we navigate through the seldom-discussed dynamic of money and sex. We delve into how money's influence extends far beyond the wallet and into the heart. We illuminate the challenges and opportunities that arise when navigating income differences with a partner, emphasizing the importance of open, honest conversations about finances.

Today, Tracey is a renowned coach, speaker, and advocate for financial wellness in relationships.

[00:00:00] Introduction to the Episode: Tracey discusses the impact of financial disparities on relationships and introduces the main themes of the conversation.

[00:00:34] The Relationship Escalator: Michelle talks about the dynamics she observes in couples regarding financial discussions and moving in together.

[01:03] Money and Shame: Tracey delves into how money conversations can be laden with shame and how to approach them.

[01:20] Sex, Money, and Society's Expectations: The relationship between sex, money, and societal pressures is explored, with insights on how these aspects influence each other.

[02:11] Ontological Coaching and Money Dynamics: Tracey explains ontological coaching and its application to understanding personal relationships with money.

[03:06] Using Money Conversations to Enhance Relationships: Discussion on how transparent conversations about finances can actually improve intimacy and relationship satisfaction.

[04:05] The Conversation with Tracey Burns: Michelle introduces her guest, Tracey Burns, for a deep dive into the nuances of money and relationships.

[06:01] Unpacking Financial Discrepancies in Partnerships: Tracey provides insights on how couples can navigate differences in income and financial management.

[07:40] Expectations vs. Reality in Financial Contributions: The discussion turns to managing expectations around financial contributions and understanding each other's financial standing.

[09:07] Adapting to Changes in Financial Dynamics: Strategies for couples to support each other through financial ups and downs.

[13:56] Unlearning Sexual Shame: Michelle introduces an online module aimed at addressing sexual shame and its ties to financial well-being.

[14:35] Emotional Infidelity and Financial Secrets: Tracey and Michelle discuss the parallels between discovering financial secrets and emotional infidelity.

[24:05] Closing Thoughts and Where to Find Tracey: The episode wraps up with final thoughts on money, relationships, and how to connect with Tracey Burns for more insights.

Ready for an Unforgettable Journey of Strength and Resilience?

We’re kicking off season 3 with a conversation with Ally Hensley, a woman who was born with a rare condition called Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) Syndrome, resulting in the absence of a vagina and reproductive organs. Our conversation follows her relationship with her body before and after diagnosis, and talks about her personal healing journey to unlearning the feelings of shame she came to feel surrounding sex and sexuality.

Today, Ally is an author, speaker, writer, and advocate for women’s reproductive health.

Show Notes

[00:00:09] Introduction by Michelle:
Michelle opens the episode by posing a thought-provoking scenario about adolescence, expectations, and the shock of discovering one's body is different, setting the stage for Ally's story.

[00:00:30] Ally's Diagnosis:
Ally Hensley recounts her personal experience with MRKH, discovered during her teenage years when she did not get her period, leading to a diagnosis that would forever change her perspective on womanhood and belonging.

[00:01:37] Emotional Impact and Isolation:
Ally discusses the emotional turmoil of growing up with MRKH, the societal pressures of womanhood, and the unique challenges of navigating adolescence with a condition few understand.

[00:02:08] Humor and Societal Norms:
Despite the challenges, Ally recalls moments of humor and the lengths she went to fit into societal norms, highlighting the complexity of identity and the desire to belong.

[00:02:38] Disclosure and Shame:
Ally talks about the internal battle with disclosing her condition, confronting shame, and finding the courage to speak her truth.

[00:03:37] Acceptance and Community:
The conversation shifts to Ally's path towards acceptance, the power of community, advocacy, and the importance of unlearning shame associated with MRKH.

[00:05:00] Sexual Education and Discovery:
Ally discusses the shortcomings of sex education, her personal exploration of sexuality, and the journey of creating her own vagina, reflecting on societal expectations and the pursuit of "typical".

[00:09:14] Medical Journey:
Ally shares her experience navigating the medical world at 16, the options presented for treatment, and the impact of her condition on family dynamics and personal growth.

[00:12:46] Stigma and Silence:
The discussion delves into the societal stigma surrounding MRKH, the importance of open dialogue, and the ongoing struggle against shame and secrecy.

[00:17:49] Womanhood and Identity:
Ally reflects on the concepts of womanhood, motherhood, and the societal pressures that define female identity, emphasizing the need for a broader, more inclusive understanding.

[00:24:28] Reconnecting with the Body:
Ally discusses the complex relationship between pain, pleasure, and body disconnect, sharing her journey towards healing and reconnecting with her body and sexuality.

[00:32:06] Overcoming Shame:
The episode concludes with Ally offering ideas for others struggling with shame, emphasizing the importance of community, self-acceptance, and challenging societal norms.

Closing Remarks by Michelle:
Michelle wraps up the episode, highlighting the significance of Ally's story in challenging silence and shame around sex and identity, and directs listeners to Ally's podcast, "Stigma Shakers," for more insights and inspiration.

Where to Find Ally:

Instagram: @Ally_Hensley

Website: https://allyhensley.com/

Podcast: Stigma Shakers

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/allyhensley

In this episode, we delve into the hot topic of sending nude pictures in the digital age. Responding to a listener's question, we unpack the risks involved and explore five key strategies to minimize potential harm: consent, self-awareness, anonymity, trust, and legal considerations. Whether you're contemplating sharing an intimate photo or just seeking insight into this modern phenomenon, this episode aims to equip you with the knowledge to make informed and confident decisions. Tune in!

Show Notes:

[00:00:00] Michelle: Introduction

• The safety of sending nude pictures.

[00:00:11] Addressing a Listener Question

• Michelle addresses a listener's question about the safety of sending nude pictures and outlines the objective to discuss five strategies to potentially decrease the associated risks.

[00:00:48] Point 1: Consent and Agreement

• Michelle emphasizes the importance of discussing consent with the recipient of the photos.
• She highlights the need for an explicit agreement on how the pictures will be handled (e.g., whether they will be deleted or saved securely).

[00:01:08] Self-awareness and Pressure

• Michelle encourages self-reflection on the motivations behind sending such photos, and whether one is acting out of their own desire or external pressure.
• She mentions the possible anxiety that may arise if one is sending pictures under pressure.

[00:01:36] Point 2: Anonymity

• Michelle suggests ensuring that the pictures do not include identifiable features, such as face, tattoos, birthmarks, or distinct jewelry, to maintain anonymity.

[00:02:13] Point 3: Trust

• Michelle discusses the importance of trusting the recipient, ideally someone known well.
• Have an understanding  about what will happen to the pictures if the relationship ends.

[00:03:04] Point 4: Secure Storage

• Choosing a secure, password-protected storage option and being mindful of potential family sharing plans that could expose the pictures to unintended viewers.

[00:03:31] Point 5: Legal Considerations

• Michelle underscores the importance of being informed about the age of consent and the laws regarding sending explicit photos in one’s jurisdiction, as there can be legal consequences.

[00:04:32] Final Takeaway and Conclusion

• Michelle concludes by reiterating the two primary options for reducing anxiety when considering sending explicit photos: either ensuring complete anonymity in the photo or opting not to send any photos at all.
• She emphasizes that both decisions are valid.

[00:04:57] Sign-off

• Michelle wishes listeners a great day and signs off the podcast.

Chances are, if you have a unique sexual turn-on, there are many others with the exact same inclination. So many, in fact, that you might just be able to make a career out of it. That's what Milo Miles did. We met Milo last winter at the Dan Savage Amateur Erotic Film Festival, Humpfest. Milo starred in the documentary film "The Boy with the Tighty Whities." The film was selected from hundreds of submissions and was chosen to be showcased in theaters worldwide. This was the first time he revealed a more intimate side of himself and his kink on the big screen, in front of hundreds of people.

We dive deep into Milo's childhood in Colombia, immigrating to Canada, when his interest in tighty whities began, his surprising pivot from politics to adult entertainment, and now, as he undergoes a gay renaissance, we discuss how therapy and social connections have facilitated his journey to self-acceptance. Join us for a raw, eye-opening journey from politics to porn, with self-acceptance at its core. Tune in; it’s a must-listen.

Show Notes

[00:00:00] Milo on fetish origins linked to puberty. 

[00:00:29] Michelle on sexuality as a key to understanding clients. [

00:01:16] Introduction of Milo's documentary. 

[00:01:35] Milo’s surprise at Humpfest film audience. 

[00:01:43] Milo’s transition from politician to the porn industry. 

[00:03:48] Comparison of Milo's political and current earnings. 

[00:07:24] Milo's acceptance of sexuality through therapy and growth. 

[00:09:38] Milo advocates for passion without fear of judgment.

[00:12:09] Milo’s upbringing amidst heteronormative and immigrant perspectives.

[00:15:44] Milo's challenging upbringing and family dynamics. 

[00:17:37] Milo's two-part coming out experience. 

[00:20:21] Reasons behind Milo’s career change to porn. 

[00:22:37] Milo’s parents’ reactions to his career and sexuality. 

[00:23:48] Milo’s journey and challenges as an OnlyFans creator. 

[00:25:55] Discussion on OnlyFans representation and Milo’s content strategy. 

[00:29:04] Milo’s perspective on relationships and friendships. 

[00:30:58] Milo’s advice: therapy and the normalization of sex work. 

[00:32:44] Milo's contact info. [00:33:53] Closing remarks by Michelle and show info.

Find everything Milo Miles here: https://linktr.ee/milomiles

Production Credit: Katie Jensen at Vocal Fry Studios

Check out what's happening behind the scenes at GETSOME on Instagram @GETSOME_podcast

Ever found yourself on a date, debating between leaving on a high or just gritting your teeth to the finish? In this episode, we're uncovering the art of gracefully wrapping up dates, with a spotlight on our comfort and safety. Let's navigate the intricacies of those initial encounters. Eager to dive deep? Let's get rolling!

Show Notes 

[00:00:00] - Introduction

• Ending dates and the decision to leave.

[00:00:30] - Slowing down the intimacy of a date 

• The importance of not rushing into physical intimacy.

[00:00:43] - Ending the Date with Kindness

• Strategies for ending the date while respecting personal boundaries.

[00:01:20] - Pre-Date Communication

• Setting time limits beforehand.
• Suggestions for limited-duration activities.
• Why bad dates feel like a wasted night.

[00:02:02] - Addressing Concerns and Fears

• Overcoming the fear of other people's reactions.
• Prioritizing personal feelings over societal pressure.

[00:02:40] - Handling Potential Negative Reactions

• Fears of confrontation or anger.
• The importance of safety and recognizing potential danger signs.

[00:03:16] - Safety Tips for First Dates

• Keeping personal details private.
• Limiting access to personal information.

[00:03:39] - Prioritizing Personal Safety

• Safeguarding personal information.
• The danger of sharing too much too soon.

[00:04:14] - Addressing Ghosting

• The downsides of ghosting.
• Effective ways to communicate disinterest.

[00:04:39] - Clear Communication Post-Date

• Importance of clear communication.

[00:05:19] - Closing Thoughts

• The importance of self-respect and avoiding enduring unfavorable situations.
• Advocate for personal boundaries in dating and intimate situations.

[00:05:38] - Outro

• Gratitude for listeners and encouragement to join the next discussion.

Guess what? Even 'Curb Your Enthusiasm' missed the mark on Orthodox Jewish sex! I've got Shely Esses on the show today—a Sex Therapist from Toronto, Canada. With her expertise in Jewish healing, she's here to bust myths and shine a light on the cultural nuances surrounding intimacy within the Orthodox Jewish community. Let's shtup in!

Show Notes

[00:00:00] Shely explains Judaism's sex-positive perspective: Emphasis on marital context for sexual activity.

[00:00:38] Jewish Myths Debunked: The "sheet with a hole" myth from Curb Your Enthusiasm and its origins linked to tzitzit - a traditional Jewish garment.

[00:01:50] Orthodox Jewish Marital Practices: Emphasizes on sexual satisfaction in marital agreements, the importance of physical intimacy, and the varying levels of observance and practice.

[00:03:26] Relationship with Local Orthodox Rabbis: Insights into personal connections, guidance, and the role of Yoetzet – female advisors.

[00:03:54] Mikveh and its Significance: Explores the role of menstrual blood in religious purity, and emphasizes on self-care, rejuvenation, and marital intimacy.

[00:07:21] Addressing Sexual Challenges: Approaches to tackle challenges like low desire and painful penetration, the importance of communication, techniques like dilator work, Sensate Focus, and the role of body image and sexual self-esteem.

[00:10:49] Premarital Counseling in the Jewish Community: Combines religious teachings with modern sexual health approaches while emphasizing pleasure and intimacy.

[00:12:33] Sexuality & Jewish Traditions: Highlights the significance of Shabbat in marital intimacy and the role of traditions in guiding sexual practices.

[00:13:27] Birth Control & Hasidic Community: Navigates the balance between religious beliefs and personal choices, and highlights the importance of rabbinical guidance and personal well-being.

[00:14:54] Addressing apprehensions around first-time intercourse.

[00:15:19] Shely's resources and methods:

• Recommends website OMGYES.
• Describes orgasms with the metaphor of waves.
• Discusses the importance of understanding the nervous system.

[00:15:51] Cultural insights: The significance of post-marriage intercourse in the Jewish tradition.

[00:16:12] The long-term approach to intimacy: Insights on grounding oneself before intimacy, differentiating between calmness and boredom, and advocating for meditation before sex.

[00:17:03] Michelle's input: Points out the resistance against integrating mindfulness and introduces Lori Brotto's workbook.

[00:17:24] Shely on dealing with trauma: Introduces the ventral vagal anchor technique as well as planning sex.

[00:17:48] Scheduled vs. spontaneous intimacy: Discusses the concept of Mikvah Night and addresses misconceptions about spontaneity in intimacy.

[00:18:16] Embracing terminology with confidence: Encourages understanding and confidently using terms related to sexual health and anatomy.

[00:18:49] Michelle's question on addressing shame: Shely emphasizes seeking sex therapy, particularly from professionals familiar with Jewish traditions.

[00:19:25] Resources: Dive into sex-positive aspects of Judaism with recommended readings like works by Dr. Ruth and The Kosher Kama Sutra by Shmuley Boteach.

[00:19:52] Closing remarks: Expresses gratitude to Shely for her invaluable insights and contributions.

Production Credits: katie@vocalfrystudios

About Shely:

Shely Esses RP (Qualifying) holds a marriage and family therapy (MFT) graduate degree from Iona University and currently resides in Toronto, Canada.

Shely is guided by a systemic lens, a way of seeing you as an individual with interpersonal and wider-world impacts on your life. She is passionate about helping people feel comfortable in their own skin. She is delighted to help individuals, couples, and families find balance and healing in their lives.

She is knowledgeable about the Orthodox community, ensuring clients feel understood halachically while discussing mental and physical health. She is also skilled at helping clients with pre-and post-marriage halachot.

Shely focuses on helping clients experiencing discomfort or anxiety about their sexual self-esteem, self-worth, and relationships. She is particularly interested in working with often overlooked or underserved communities, such as those in conservative religious minority groups and people in alternative relationships. Shely is skilled at weaving together practical and holistic techniques to promote nervous system regulation & deep mindfulness. 

Resources For Professionals:

1) Heavenly Sex: sexuality and the Jewish Tradition Dr Ruth & Jonathan Mark

2) The kosher Sutra: Eight Sacred Secrets for Reigniting Desire and Restoring Passion for Life by Rabbi Shmuleyu Boteach

3) Kabbalah and Sex Magic By Marla Segol

Podcast: Intimate Judaism with Talli Rosenbaum and Rabbi Scott Kahn

Fun reads: I will watch you: four short tales of Jewish love and Lust by Shoshana Pearl

Classes Taught by Shely: 3 CEs available! https://modernsextherapyinstitutes.com/product/sex-intimacy-and-connection-through-the-lens-of-the-sefirot-10-emanations-from-jewish-mysticism-3-ces-2023/

Disclaimer
 

Today we're diving deep into the nuances of initiation. We'll discuss sexual initiation, its dynamics, and why understanding our preferences is more crucial than we might think. If you've ever felt a little out of sync with your partner or just curious about how to create a bridge to sexual connection, this episode is for you. Let's get started!

Show Notes 

Intro:

• [00:00:00] Introduction and the importance of understanding sexual initiation preferences.

Desire Discrepancy:

• [00:00:15] The challenge of aligning desires in long-term relationships.
• [00:00:28] The evolving nature of sexual desires and the fluidity of sex.

Initiating Sex:

• [00:01:00] How people approach the initiation of intimacy.
• [00:01:19] Michelle introduces a conceptual exercise to understand intimacy better.

The 0 to 10 Scale of Sexual Initiation:

• [00:01:30] Visualization of sexual initiation, from no thought of sex to after-sex activities.
• [00:02:06] Different perspectives on what constitutes the beginning of sexual encounters.

Practical Exercise:

• [00:02:34] A guide on how couples can use the exercise to discuss their ideal sexual encounters.

Conclusion:

• [00:03:06] The importance of open communication about sexual experiences.
• [00:03:30] The goal: a shared, satisfying sexual experience.

Outro:

• [00:03:50] Closing thoughts, hope for listeners to have more fulfilling intimate relationships.

Resources & Links:

• Research on post-sex cuddling and relationship satisfaction:  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24777441/
• Exercise adapted from Barry McCarthy's model - 5 Dimensions of Touch in the book Discovering Your Couple Sexual Style 

In this evocative episode, Toronto-based Rahat Pye, MSW, RSW — an adolescent, individual, family, and couples therapist — unravels the deeply personal story of her mother, a Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) survivor from Bombay, India. Diving deep into the trauma, defiance, and resilience, Rahat sheds light on the stark realities of FGM and its profound effect on her mother's life. As the narrative unfolds, we explore the paradox of a mother who, despite her own harrowing experiences, championed the significance of sexual health, intimacy, and pleasure. Tune in for this captivating and insightful conversation you won't want to miss!

Show Notes

[00:00:00] Rahat shares her perspective on FGM and believes it should not happen to anyone.

[00:00:17] Introduction to Rahat, a social worker from Toronto who tells the story of her mother, a survivor of FGM from Bombay, India.

[00:00:43] Explanation of FGM and its severe consequences, including that it's illegal in Canada.

[00:01:14] Rahat mentions her grandfather’s political involvement and how her mother was raised with a mix of tradition and resistance.

[00:01:33] Michelle touches on the trauma of FGM and its implications on her mother's relationship with sex.

[00:02:08] Rahat describes her mother’s painful experiences related to childbirth and FGM.

[00:03:16] Rahat shares that her mother underwent FGM as a young girl in Bombay.

[00:04:09] Rahat contemplates the impact of FGM on her mother's life and her defiance against it.

[00:05:53] Rahat emphasizes that her mother saw sex as important, valuable, and as a means of connection, despite her FGM experience.

[00:06:35] Michelle queries how Rahat learned about her mother’s FGM experience.

[00:07:39] Discussion on how Rahat's mother emphasized the importance of knowledge about their own bodies and sexual health.

[00:09:47] Rahat reflects on her mother’s will to learn and teach about the body and pleasure.

[00:10:57] Rahat provides a backstory on her mother’s immigration to Canada.

[00:13:14] Rahat discusses her mother’s experience with the medical system, trauma during childbirth, and how this affected their relationship.

[00:15:37] Rahat describes her mother's trauma and difficulty around FGM, and how it related to her trust in her body and how it functioned.

[00:15:57] Rahat's mother felt isolated and different due to her FGM experience, especially in a community where she was the only person of color.

[00:16:28] Michelle mentions the fear FGM survivors face when visiting a new doctor or gynecologist, fearing both physical examination and the doctor's reaction.

[00:17:29] Rahat and Michelle discuss the shame and societal perceptions associated with women who have undergone FGM.

[00:18:07] Rahat recalls her mother's bold and rebellious behavior, which she believes may have been her way of reclaiming her body after the trauma of FGM.

[00:18:48] Rahat reflects on her mother's openness about sex and sexuality while growing up.

[00:19:28] Rahat attributes her ease in discussing sexuality to her mother's openness and lack of shame about the subject.

[00:20:06] Michelle emphasizes the significance of Rahat's mother transforming her traumatic experience into a positive force for Rahat and her sister.

[00:21:56] Rahat reflects on her complicated relationship with her mother, admiring her resilience and ability to turn traumatic experiences into positive life lessons.

[00:23:46] Rahat comments on the continuation of FGM in certain parts of the world.

[00:25:46] Rahat describes her mother's determination to reclaim her sexuality.

[00:26:42] Rahat believes her mother would be proud of her for participating in this interview and openly discussing FGM.

[00:27:26] Rahat delves into her mother's attachment trauma and reflects on her own experiences related to childbirth, finding a connection between the two.

[00:28:48] Michelle discusses the intergenerational impact of trauma, highlighting the ripple effects of Rahat's mother's experience on Rahat.

[00:29:49] Rahat emphasizes the importance of understanding and discussing the realms of sex, pleasure, and intimacy and the significance of culture and belief systems in shaping one's identity.

[00:31:41] Michelle If you are in Canada and you believe you or someone you know is at risk of undergoing FGM, please seek assistance through your local police or child protective services. In addition, if you or the person at risk is a Canadian citizen abroad, please contact the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate. Call 1 613 996 8885.

We're excited to share a recording of the Sex in Space podcast interview with Andrew Gurza and Heather Morrison, co-founders of Handi. Handi makes sex toys designed by and for disabled people. The mission behind Handi is that everyone should be able to ‘get off’. Listen in to hear about how Handi came to be, the hands on research behind Handi and how the bendable, flexible design of the Bump'n Joystick has revolutionized the accessibility of pleasure for all.

Show Notes:

 [00:00:17] Introducing the Sex in Space podcast trio and their mission to create a space for discussing sex across all dimensions. [00:00:46] Interview introduction for Andrew Gurza, a queer, disabled porn star who creates sex toys for people with limited hand movement. [00:01:15] Discussion on consent and disabled people's experiences with touch.

 [00:01:46] Transition to Andrew Gurza's interview.

[00:03:12] Lack of recognition of disabled people as sexual beings and the need for education in this area. [00:04:00] Discussion on the struggle for disabled people to achieve sexual pleasure on their own. 

[00:04:30] Lack of products specifically designed for disabled people's sexual needs. 

[00:05:00] Introduction to Handi, a company creating sex toys for disabled people. 

[00:05:34] Andrew and Heather Morrison, co-founders of Handi, discuss their journey and the origin of the company. 

[00:06:28] Heather and Andrew's frank conversation that led to the idea of creating sex toys for disabled individuals.

 [00:08:00] Handi's name as a playful way to reclaim the term "handicap" and address the needs of people with hand limitations. [00:08:59] The decision to write a book to share experiences and educate about sex and disability.

 [00:10:00] Launching Handi as a brand during International Masturbation Month. 

[00:10:39] The process of creating the book "Sex and Disability."

[00:11:00] Andrew Gurza's Journey as a Disability Consultant

[00:11:00] Andrew's transition from seeking a traditional job to becoming a freelance disability consultant. [

00:11:23] Andrew's early work as a disability speaker, writing articles on queerness and disability. [00:11:57] The impact of Andrew's photo shoot for a gay magazine on challenging perceptions of disability and sexuality. 

[00:13:00] The relevance of disability stories to both disabled and non-disabled individuals. 

[00:14:00] Andrew's experience reading the book "Sex and Disability" and the roller coaster of emotions it evokes. [00:15:00] The relatability of the book's stories despite different disabilities. 

[00:15:39] The impact of the book on changing perceptions and educating about disability and ableism.

[00:16:00] Discussion on Differences and Similarities: 

[00:16:00] The duality of being the same and different when it comes to sexuality. 

[00:16:31] The importance of sharing experiences and representation in breaking down societal barriers.

 [00:17:13] The bravery and confidence gained through representing disability and sexuality in media. 

[00:18:00] Andrew's journey as a freelance disability consultant and speaker. 

[00:18:29] The global impact of Andrew's work in challenging perceptions of disability and sexuality.

[00:19:00] Handi's Sex Toy Development Process

[00:19:00] Collaboration with University to validate the need and create concepts. 

[00:19:48] Testing concepts with occupational therapists and the disabled community globally. 

[00:20:59] Sending 10 prototypes to testers for feedback and collaborative refining of the design. 

[00:21:18] Continuation of testing and validation as they move toward the launch.

[00:31:19] Heather and Andrew discuss the huggable nature of their sex toy design, which allows for increased intimacy and positive emotional responses in both disabled and able-bodied individuals. They talk about how it breaks the negative cycle of anxiety for people with hand limitations, preventing worries about fatigue or inability to orgasm. 

[00:31:48] They mention that some users found comfort in the huggable nature of the toy, which helped them overcome anxiety and negative thoughts during self-pleasure. 

[00:32:22] Heather shares that the design process debunked their assumption about gender preferences in sex toys. They realized that men who thought they didn't like vibration hadn't actually tried it and found that vibration could be a better option for those unable to get an erection. 

[00:33:00] They discuss the importance of involving disabled people in the design process and how this approach led to unexpected positive consequences in their design. 

[00:36:23] Heather talks about their plans to have a range of different toys and products to cater to various needs in the market. [00:39:00] Andrew explains how their design provides a comforting, emotional experience beyond just sexual pleasure, leading to a deeper understanding of pleasure-based sexuality.

 [00:43:41] They discuss other companies in the market working on sex toys for disabled individuals, such as Hot Octopus 

[00:45:11] Andrew shares the importance of communication, consent, and sense education for disabled individuals, especially when dealing with doctors, medical professionals, and caregivers. 

[00:48:00] They discuss the lack of education around sexuality for disabled teenagers and the need for parents to have open and honest conversations with their children about their bodies and desires. 

[00:53:00] They emphasize the significance of communication, especially for disabled individuals who need to navigate intimate conversations about their bodies and needs. 

[00:57:13] The interview concludes with thanks and recommendations to check out Handi's website, book, and podcast.

Check them out on social media:

AndrewGurza_ on all social channels:

Websites:

AndrewGurza.com

https://getbumpn.com/  to find the Bump'n Joystick and their Book:The Bump'n Book of Love, Lust & Disability )

Andrew also has award winning podcast of his own, called Disability After Dark that won gold in the Outstanding Adult Series at the Canadian Podcast Awards.

https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/episode-242-acknowledging-disability-is-like-opening/id1151890990?i=1000521820212

Make sure to check out Sex in Space on all major podcast platforms. For more information about Sex in Space visit www.sexinspace.com

Reminder to check out our book, available at sexinspace.com/book or simply search for "The Organ Education Forgot" on Amazon.

Ever wondered how to flirt or wished someone would teach your partner? Michelle dives into the question "How do you flirt?" in today's episode. Flirting is all about personal attraction, confidence, playful gestures, and engaging body language. Michelle reminds us to pay attention to the other person's cues to see if your flirtation is reciprocated. If you are unsure, ask! If you get a green light, go ahead, unleash your inner flirt and potentially make someone's day a little brighter!
 

Show Notes:

[00:00:31] Michelle compares being asked how to flirt to being asked how to have sex, emphasizing that both are highly individual experiences.

[00:01:12] Flirting is described as an act driven by personal attraction and confidence, without knowing the other person's feelings.

[00:01:41] Eye contact is highlighted as an important aspect of flirting, along with playful touches and engaging body language.

[00:02:49] Michelle acknowledges that the other person may not respond due to disinterest or distractions, and it's essential to be okay with that.

[00:03:11] The importance of respecting boundaries and paying attention to the other person's body language is emphasized.

[00:03:38] Michelle encourages having personal feelings but recognizing that acting on them may not be appropriate in certain situations.

[00:03:51] She invites listeners to reflect on how they would explain flirting to someone who is unsure or believes their partner doesn't know how to flirt.

[00:04:00] Michelle signs off, wishing everyone a great day.

[00:04:07] End of the episode.