The Lovers Society

Hot Flashes, Dry Spells: Intimacy During Menopause

Sat, 28 Mar 2026 15:55:00 GMT

This exciting episode features a deep and honest conversation about women's health, aging, and intimacy during perimenopause and menopause. Marissa Nelson talks to Jenna Perkins, RN, WHNP-BC, GYN, Sexual Health Specialist and Founder of DiscovHer Health, who shares insights on hormonal changes, symptoms, treatment options, and how women can reclaim pleasure and connection in their lives. You don't want to miss this!

Key Topics

Hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause

Overlapping symptoms with other health conditions

Physical and emotional impacts on intimacy

Treatment options including hormonal and non-hormonal therapies

The importance of self-advocacy and partner involvement

Sound Bites

"Address pain before pleasure"

"Your body is not betraying you"

"Keep trying, resilience is key"

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Intimacy and Connection

04:35 Understanding Perimenopause and Menopause

12:10 Navigating Hormonal Changes and Their Impact

17:51 The Emotional Landscape of Sexual Desire

23:36 Addressing Pain and Intimacy Challenges

26:21 Understanding Pain and Sensitivity in Intimacy

27:47 The Impact of Trauma on Sexual Health

31:46 Navigating Pain and Pleasure in Intimacy

33:03 Emerging Treatments for Pain-Free Intimacy

36:55 The Importance of Partner Involvement

38:39 Advocating for Yourself and Your Needs

41:35 Navigating Partner Dynamics During Change

45:22 The Ripple Effect of Hormonal Changes

47:39 Wellness Products for Enhanced Intimacy

50:42 Closing Thoughts and Resources

Holy Shame: When Faith Impacts Your Sexuality

Sat, 21 Mar 2026 13:00:08 GMT

In this inspiring episode, Award Winning Therapist Marissa Nelson interviews Lyvonne Briggs, a renowned spiritualist and author, about reimagining sexuality and faith. They explore how to unlearn shame, embrace pleasure as a divine gift, and integrate spirituality with sensuality, especially within faith communities.

Key topics

Unlearning shame around sexuality

The sacredness of pleasure and the body

The impact of religious conditioning on sexuality

Healing from sexual trauma and shame

Integrating spirituality and sensuality

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Intimacy and Shame

03:36 The Intersection of Faith and Sexuality

11:05 Reclaiming Pleasure as a Birthright

16:38 Overcoming Shame and Trauma

23:09 Decolonizing Religion and Embracing Sensuality

30:35 Navigating Faith and Intimacy

33:09 Redefining Gender Roles in Relationships

36:59 Understanding Love and Submission

39:17 The Impact of Purity Culture

44:52 Embracing Pleasure and Self-Care

50:36 The Power of the Erotic

55:32 Living a Life of Pleasure and Joy

Nourish Your Sex Life: The Hidden Link Between Food, Allergies & Intimacy

Sat, 07 Mar 2026 10:00:09 GMT

In this episode, Marissa Nelson LMFT and Allergy Nutritionist, Ilana Dubrovski MS, RDN, LDN, CDN explores the profound impact of imbalance on mental health, emphasizing the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being. It highlights how factors like allergies, hormones, stress, and communication play crucial roles in our overall health.

Takeaways

Imbalance can lead to anxiety and depression.

Listening to communication channels is essential for well-being.

All aspects of health are interconnected.

Eating habits significantly affect body image and mental health.

Stress and anxiety are influenced by our physical state.

Body image impacts how we feel about ourselves.

Maintaining balance is crucial for mental health.

Communication is key to understanding our health needs.

Energy levels are tied to our mental state.

Understanding the connection between body and mind is vital.

sound bites

"if we're out of balance, that can lead impacts like anxiety"

"it's all connected, it is all connected"

"this ties into our body image, how we feel"

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Intimacy and Food

03:54 The Impact of Food Allergies on Relationships

06:55 Understanding Inflammation and Desire

09:27 The Connection Between Stress and Intimacy

12:13 Navigating Food Intolerances and Mental Health

14:47 Gut Health and Its Role in Intimacy

17:25 Self-Care and Nourishment

20:28 The Role of GLP-1s in Nutrition and Intimacy

23:02 Allergies and Intimacy: What You Need to Know

25:50 Advice for Younger Selves

28:42 Conclusion and Resources

Financial Foreplay: What Your Money Patterns Say About Your Sex Life

Sat, 28 Feb 2026 18:33:11 GMT

In this episode of Lovers Society, Marissa Nelson LMFT and Dr. LaTanya White delve into the intricate relationship between money and intimacy. They explore how financial dynamics can mirror emotional connections in relationships, the impact of early memories on financial beliefs, and the importance of open communication about money. The conversation also addresses financial infidelity, the role of identity in wealth creation, and practical tips for couples to enhance their financial intimacy. Ultimately, the episode emphasizes the need to de-shame discussions around money and intimacy to foster deeper connections.

Takeaways

Everyone has a relationship with money that reflects their intimacy.

Money dynamics can mirror relationship dynamics, affecting intimacy.

Early memories shape our beliefs about money and intimacy.

Financial infidelity often stems from unresolved emotional pain.

Identity plays a crucial role in wealth creation and financial wellness.

Entitlement in spending can arise from unmet emotional needs.

Open communication about money is essential for relationship health.

Transparency in financial matters fosters intimacy and trust.

Couples should establish house money rules to avoid conflict.

Healing from financial trauma can lead to healthier relationships.

sound bites

"Transparency is super sexy."

"Healed people can help heal people."

"We want to de-shame your money."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Money and Relationships

03:21 Understanding Financial Dynamics and Shame

05:59 Navigating Financial Stress in Relationships

55:56 The Lovers Society Video Podcast Intro Video - Navy.mp4

Beyond Vanilla: What Every Couple Can Learn from Kink

Sat, 21 Feb 2026 10:00:05 GMT

In this episode of The Lovers Society, Marissa Nelson and Dr. Neil Cannon delve into the complexities of intimacy, kink, and the importance of communication in relationships. They explore the misconceptions surrounding kink, emphasizing that it is not solely about pain but rather about play and connection. The conversation highlights the significance of consent, aftercare, and understanding power dynamics in relationships. They also address the challenges of discussing desires and boundaries, the impact of shame on sexuality, and the importance of creating a safe space for exploration. The episode concludes with resources for those looking to expand their sexual lives and heal from trauma.

Takeaways

Kink encompasses a wide range of experiences beyond pain.

Playfulness is essential for maintaining intimacy in long-term relationships.

Sarcasm can be damaging in intimate conversations.

Listening to a partner's desires does not mean agreeing to everything.

Shame is a significant barrier to open communication about sex.

Aftercare is crucial for emotional connection post-intimacy.

Not all sexual experiences need to end in orgasm to be fulfilling.

Self-exploration is key to understanding one's own desires.

The mind is the most powerful sexual organ.

Healing from trauma requires patience and understanding from both partners.

sound bites

"Kink is about play, not just pain."

"Not all sex ends in orgasms."

Chapters

00:00 Exploring Kink and BDSM: A New Perspective

02:58 Understanding Kink: Beyond Pain and Dominance

05:32 The Importance of Play in Intimacy

08:28 Navigating Consent and Boundaries

11:06 Communicating Desires: The Key to Connection

13:40 Building Trust Through Vulnerability

16:23 Overcoming Shame in Sexual Conversations

19:26 Power Dynamics in Relationships

22:13 Creating a Safe Scene for Exploration

24:48 Aftercare: The Unsung Hero of Intimacy

27:39 Starting Your Journey into Kink

30:07 Addressing Trauma in Intimacy

33:03 Listener Letter: Balancing Desire and Safety

Designed for Intimacy: How Your Home Shapes Connection Sessions (1)

Sat, 21 Feb 2026 10:00:04 GMT

In this conversation, Marissa Nelson and Jamila St. Julien explore the intricate relationship between home design and intimacy. They discuss how creating cozy, inviting spaces can enhance connection and emotional well-being. The conversation covers various aspects of design, including the importance of decluttering, the role of lighting, and the impact of personal and cultural identity on home aesthetics. They emphasize the need for homes to reflect the individuals living in them and to serve as sanctuaries for relaxation and intimacy. The episode concludes with practical tips for couples to create spaces that nurture their relationship and foster deeper connections.

Takeaways

Your environment is the third participant in your relationship.

Design is emotional care and should reflect who you are.

Creating a cozy space enhances intimacy and connection.

Decluttering can reclaim your space for intimacy.

Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood.

Use your home as a form of self-care.

Creating rituals for connection is essential for couples.

Design should support how you naturally move through your space.

Home is an emotional place that can reflect love or disconnection.

We deserve spaces that inspire us and make us feel good.

sound bites

"Design is emotional care."

"Create a sanctuary for intimacy."

"Lighting creates a whole mood."

Chapters

00:00 Teaser Intro

01:00 Creating Intimacy Through Environment

03:36 The Role of Design in Relationships

46:57 Lightning Round

53:13 Jamila's Final Thoughts

55:15 Creating a Cozy Bedroom Atmosphere

When Sex Stops: Rebuilding Intimacy You’re Tired of Trying

Sat, 14 Feb 2026 10:00:08 GMT

Summary

In this episode of the Lover Society, Marissa Nelson and Dr. Pia delve into the complexities of intimacy and sexual connection. They discuss the common issues of sexual disconnection, the importance of communication, and the impact of sexual trauma on relationships. The conversation emphasizes the need for both partners to take ownership of their sexual health and the significance of creating a safe space for open discussions about intimacy. Through their insights, they provide valuable guidance for couples seeking to reconnect and navigate the challenges of their sexual lives. In this conversation, Dr. Pia and Marissa Nelson delve into the complexities of intimacy and trauma recovery. They discuss the importance of understanding trauma's impact on relationships, the role of touch in healing, and the necessity of creating a safe space for connection. The conversation also explores attachment styles, the empowerment that comes from education, and the significance of addressing medical concerns in sexual health. They provide practical tips for rebuilding intimacy after infidelity and emphasize the journey of rediscovering pleasure in relationships.

Takeaways

Sexual disconnection is more common than we think.

Understanding the reasons behind sexual avoidance is crucial.

Communication is key to rebuilding intimacy.

Sexual trauma can significantly impact relationships.

Both partners must take ownership of their sexual health.

Creating a safe space for conversations about sex is essential.

Intimacy involves more than just physical connection.

Therapy can help navigate complex sexual issues.

Understanding personal desires is important for intimacy.

Healing from trauma requires patience and understanding. Naming and normalizing trauma is essential for healing.

Intimacy requires a personal journey of self-exploration.

Touch is foundational for intimacy and connection.

Creating a safe space is crucial for vulnerability.

Understanding attachment styles can improve relationships.

Education empowers couples to navigate intimacy issues.

Medical concerns can impact sexual health and intimacy.

Rebuilding trust after infidelity takes time and communication.

Rediscovering pleasure is a gradual process.

Regular check-ins can enhance relationship intimacy.

Sound bites

"Communication is lubrication."

"Sex doesn't happen in a vacuum."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Lover Society and the Importance of Connection

02:20 Understanding Disconnection in Intimacy

09:18 Exploring the Reasons Behind Sexual Avoidance

14:13 The Role of Communication in Intimacy

20:26 The Complexity of Sexual Relationships

25:45 Navigating Conversations About Intimacy

28:36 Addressing Sexual Trauma and Its Impact

29:06 Understanding Trauma and Intimacy

32:42 The Role of Touch in Healing

36:53 Creating a Safe Space for Connection

39:40 Navigating Attachment Styles

42:07 Empowerment Through Education

46:53 Addressing Medical Concerns

48:19 Rebuilding After Infidelity

52:44 Finding Pleasure Again

54:10 Practical Tips for Connection