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Explore every episode of the podcast Permission for Pleasure

Dive into the complete episode list for Permission for Pleasure. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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1–50 of 144

TitlePub. DateDuration
Explore New Ways to Touch 12 Nov 202500:38:39

Have you ever been curious to explore new ways to communicate through touch? Anne-Lorraine Selke, the creator of Touchcards, shares why she created a card deck that offers people ways to “rediscover the richness of touch with the people you love.” She gives us examples from intimate cards to playful ones, as we offer ways to bring more connection into your relationships through touch. 

Find Touchcards and use my 10% discount PERMISSION

Mentioned in this episode:
Touch pleasure practice
Touch lexicon: What are you saying with your touch
Hillary McBride on embodiment
Bedroom Games

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Would You Rather : Sex Edition29 Oct 202500:05:34

Engage in flirty conversation to add some playful energy to your relationship. These “Would you rather” game questions offer you an easy way to play together and can spark meaningful discussion if something takes you by surprise! Use this episode on your next date night, long car ride or walk around the block.

Mentioned in this episode:
Bedroom Games
Permission for Pleasure: Tending Your Sexual Garden on GoodReads
Toys, Fantasy and Play in the Bedroom
24 Communication Starters and Questions
When a Partner Wants to Try Something New

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Sexual Self Exploration 25 Jun 202500:08:25

Self-touching or masturbation is one healthy way to be sexual, but certainly not the only way. From investigating your sexual ethics to creating your own sensual playlist, movement, and more - these ideas will help you explore being a sexual person outside of masturbation.

Mentioned in this episode:
10 Ideas - no masturbation required
My letter to young women
Questions to ask yourself with Cyndi Darnell
Sensuality on the blog
Using your senses for pleasure
Sexy playlist
Reconnecting to yourself and to your body

Mindfulness with Dr. Lori Brotto
Your body, mind and nervous system with Aurora

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Sex on the Brain09 Feb 202200:13:17

Did you know your brain is your most important sex organ?! This quickie episode is an introduction to the roll your brain plays in sexual response. There is a two-part system, an accelerator and a brake. A lot of people think there might be something wrong with their ON or accelerator, but most often the issues are with your OFF or brake. Listen and learn about questions to ask yourself that will help you to investigate what might be turning you ON or OFF.

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The Truth About Desire: Part 226 Jan 202200:21:31

“Attention training through mindfulness may be part of the recipe for cooking up sexual desire.” Dr. Lori Brotto and I continue our conversation about desire. Part Two gets practical, providing helpful tools to cultivate desire. Our discussion includes: the power of attention training and mindfulness, why sexual communication is essential, and the value of variety in encouraging arousal and desire in women.


Dr. Lori Brotto is a Professor in the UBC Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, and a Registered Psychologist in Vancouver, Canada. She is the Executive Director of the Women's Health Research Institute of BC, director of the UBC Sexual Health Laboratory and author of Better Sex Through Mindfulness: How Women Can Cultivate Desire.


Read my book review of Dr. Brotto's book

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The Truth About Desire: Part 126 Jan 202200:23:06

Do you want to know how sexual desire actually works and how to cultivate it? Dr. Lori Brotto shares the research-based truth about desire in this two-part episode. Part One includes the causes of low desire, and the things that affect it.  If you thought  it was all about the hormones,  Brotto says, “Mood, sense of well-being, body image, self-esteem, and how a woman feels about her partner turned out to be far stronger predictors of her level of sexual desire than a single hormone.” What you hear in this conversation might literally transform your sex life! 

Dr. Lori Brotto is a Professor in the UBC Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, and a Registered Psychologist in Vancouver, Canada. She is the Executive Director of the Women's Health Research Institute of BC, director of the UBC Sexual Health Laboratory and author of Better Sex Through Mindfulness: How Women Can Cultivate Desire.

Read my  book review of Dr. Brotto's book

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Why Sex Ed Really Matters12 Jan 202200:35:28

Silence is the enemy of sexual health education and most people go through life experiencing this silence. Join Dr. Kristen Mark and I for a discussion about why sex education really matters for our children, for adults, and for all of us throughout our lifespan. We can never truly have enough education about sexuality because we are constantly changing, as are our bodies and relationships. You’ll hear what the data shows about comprehensive sex education, how couples can navigate sexual difficulties, and the importance of pleasure as part of the conversation!

Kristen Mark, PhD, MPH, CSE  is the Joycelyn Elders endowed chair in sexual health education and tenured professor at the Institute for Sexual and Gender Health in the University of Minnesota Medical School.
www.kristenmark.com
theabstinenceproject.com

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Welcome to Season Two!05 Jan 202200:02:31

Welcome 2022 and Season Two! This podcast is designed to help women express, experience and enjoy their sexuality. We’ll be having more rich conversations with experts, plenty of sexual health education, and a whole lot of learning how to talk about sex. This community is a place where you will hear good education, gain confidence, and be prompted to open your own conversations about all things sexual health. Cheers to  giving ourselves permission for pleasure!

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The Big O Remix: Bonus Episode29 Dec 202100:17:04

A bonus episode all about orgasms! We have combined a few highlights of the many conversations we have had about the Big O in Season One. From faking them to ranking them, this remix is full of facts and healthy reframes for learning to experience more pleasure. Thank you for being a part of this podcast community, and please follow the show on your favorite listening platform. Cheers to the New Year and giving yourself more permission for pleasure!

Episodes 1, 2, 9, 11 & 19

Featured Guests:
Dr. Laurie Mintz -  Episode 2 (3:39)
Dr. Erica Marchand - Episode 9 (5:14)
Dr. Uchenna Ossai  Episode 11 (9:11)

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Quickies and Kisses15 Dec 202100:10:58

Just in time for holiday season, here is a quickie episode about sex and connection when you’re short on time. Listen for some reasons why quickies can be a valuable part of your sexy lineup, and a few ideas to try. Now, about those kisses. Are you hungry for kisses that mean something? Kisses that are more than a mere gesture? Here’s my thoughts on kisses that move you toward connection, the savoring kind!

Take the SURVEY

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Love Languages, Dates & Gift Ideas01 Dec 202100:23:40

My daughter joins me for this holiday episode where we discuss the 5 Love Languages, some tools for emotional connection and  several gift ideas. I share a few of my marriage mantras and three sexy date suggestions for couples. 
 
Marriage365 use code PLEASUREPODCAST25 

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Pleasure after Trauma17 Nov 202100:33:47

Dr. Holly Richmond says, “Your sexual trauma doesn’t inform your sexuality; it misinforms it.” Join us for a compassionate discussion about recovery, healing and pleasure after sexual trauma. Holly and I discuss her research based insights about control, pleasure, and connection for thriving. This conversation centers on practices and hopeful guidance for survivors and those who love them. And because healing and recovery is not a solitary process, there is advice here for all of us.

www.cindyscharkey.com

Supporting Survivors Episode
Read my review of Holly's book
My affiliate link for 10% off her online course
Holly's Free Mini Course for Survivors

Dr. Holly Richmond is a Somatic Psychotherapist, LMFT and Certified Sex Therapist. Her book,  Reclaiming Pleasure: A Sex-Positive Guide for Moving Past Sexual Trauma and Living a Passionate Life, is an innovative look at both somatic and psychological factors in survivors’ erotic recovery.
www.drhollyrichmond.com

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Relieving Mental Load03 Nov 202100:39:39

The Mental Load is the running to do list that we carry around in our minds. Although it is often invisible, it has a big impact on our relationship, our sexual desire and our stress level.
Dr. Morgan Cutlip joins me for a discussion about what the Mental Load looks like in our everyday lives and how couples can manage it together. You’ll hear lots of communication starters and very practical tips to help you ‘off-load’ and free up mental space for a healthier relationship and a healthier YOU!

www.cindyscharkey.com

Morgan Cutlip, Ph.D., is a wife, mom, and life-long lover of all things relationships. She develops online relationship courses and resources at Love Thinks and manages the blog at www.mylovethinks.com.

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Sexual Adaptation and Aids for All Bodies11 Jun 202500:40:01

Throughout life, we all face changes in our body that impact how we experience pleasure with sex. Laura Glazebrook PT, DPT, specializes in neurological injuries and all manner of pelvic health concerns. She joins me to talk about adaptations, tools, toys, and positional aids - for all bodies. Whether you’re post surgery, post injury, or navigating change, this conversation is full of practical tips, products, and resources for all of life’s seasons.

Visit our episode sponsor Uberlube and use code CINDY for 15% off

Laura Glazebrook, PT, DPT spent ten years specializing in neurological injuries at world-renowned Shepherd Center in Atlanta, and has specialized training to evaluate and treat a variety of pelvic health concerns for all genders and ages.

More on this topic:
Pelvic health and painful sex with Heather Jeffcoat
Stretched out vaginas and other myths with PT Heather Jeffcoat
Tips from my physical therapist
Anna from Mad Hatter Wellness: Sex Ed for all abilities
Tips for talking to a provider about sexual health
Guide to lube
Erectile dissatisfaction vs Erectile dysfunction
Medications and sexual health
SSRi’s and your sex life
The Handy
Intimate Rider
Bumpin Joystick
Sexuality after SCI
Sexuality and Disability
New Mobility: Quest for accessible sex toys
Ohnut rings

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G Marks the Spot20 Oct 202100:08:31

This quickie episode answers commonly asked questions about the G-spot. You’ll learn if there really is a spot, how to find yours, and the best ways to stimulate this potential erogenous zone. I also talk about how and why women vary in regards to pleasure experienced with this area, as well as the importance of arousal in the process.

www.cindyscharkey.com

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Your Body After Baby06 Oct 202100:39:15

Wendy Powell, founder of MUTU, joins me for an honest and hopeful conversation about women’s bodies after babies. We talk about sex, exercise, and all the challenges women may face after carrying and birthing a whole human. The truth is that while many physical issues are common, this does not make them normal!  We discuss the difference and how you can move toward a healthier body. Whether your baby is 6 weeks old or 16 years old, this episode is for you! You’ll hear real talk, practical advice and encouragement for you and your body.

www.cindyscharkey.com

Wendy Powell is a globally recognized leader and pioneer in the women’s pelvic health industry. She is the Founder and CEO of MUTU, a medically recommended digital health tech platform for mothers worldwide.

www.mutusystem.com

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Dating Your Body22 Sep 202100:37:48

If you want to tap into your sensuality, learn how to listen and reconnect to your body, or investigate changing the negative narrative around your body - this nourishing episode is for you.  Aurora Allen introduces us to the concept of “Taking our body out for a date" and learning how to listen to our bodies. She shares profoundly simple practices to help us move toward more grounded, connected, and embodied lives.

Aurora Allen, M.A, RYTP-500, is a somatic and embodiment coach and certified yoga instructor. www.wellalignedwoman.com

Learn more about these topics
Learning to  listen to your body
Book review: The Body Is Not An Apology
Book review: Mother's, Daughter's and Body Image

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Let’s Go Girls: Maddie from London08 Sep 202100:33:04

This is the second episode in our special series where members of our community share their stories and we explore what women have learned about sex, their bodies, and pleasure. Maddie, from London, joins me for a conversation about demisexuality and the importance of not shying away from what makes us different. We also talk about communication, embodiment, and the practice of noticing and valuing your body and how things make you feel physically. This discussion gave me goosebumps, the good kind!

www.cindyscharkey.com
Ask a question
Find Maddie

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Practicing Flow State Sex 25 Aug 202100:32:14

How do we make good sex … great? Dr. Emily Jamea joins me to talk about specific tools for optimal sexual experiences and what the research shows works! We discuss finding your sexual flow for higher sexual satisfaction, sensuality and eroticism in long term relationships and the importance of curiosity and practice for developing and maintaining a vibrant sex life worth wanting!

www.cindyscharkey.com

Emily Jamea, PhD, LMFT, LPC is a sex and relationship therapist, researcher, and author. In addition to running her Houston-based private therapy practice, REVIVE therapy & healing, she offers online workshops, conducts academic research on optimal sexual experiences, and serves as an expert speaker for both public and private events.

emilyjamea.com

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Yay for 5K! A Surprise Pleasure Exercise 18 Aug 202100:06:47

I am celebrating our growing community with this surprise episode! Yay for 5K downloads! This pleasure exercise will guide you through focused and intentional touch. I hope it’s nourishing for you. Thank you for listening, following and sharing the podcast. Cheers to giving yourself more permission for pleasure!

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Sexual Scripts11 Aug 202100:34:33

What is a sexual script? Simply put, they are guidelines and shoulds  that we have taken in, which shape and influence our expectations and behaviors about sex. Aoife Drury, a Dublin psychotherapist, joins me for a conversation about common sexual scripts and how they become woven into our sexuality.
We discuss where they come from, what they sound like in our thoughts and how to rewrite the narrative. As Aoife says, “Recognize that you have a pen, and you write the rest of your book as you see fit.”

www.cindyscharkey.com

Aoife Drury is an Accredited Psychosexual and Relationship Therapist and is currently carrying out a Doctorate in Psychotherapy. She is passionate about debunking mental health stigmas and creating a safe environment to talk about sexual health challenges.

www.drurytherapy.com


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Lube Lube Lube28 Jul 202100:13:46

What have you heard about sex and lube? That lube is just for “old ladies?” That “getting wet” is the indicator of arousal and desire? This quickie episode covers the facts about lubrication, female arousal, types of lube and recommendations to try. Learn why couples say adding lube into their sex life is a “Game Changer!”


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Visit our episode sponsor UBERLUBE and receive 15% off with code CINDY

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Myth-Busting: Part Two14 Jul 202100:20:01

Dr. Uchenna Ossai and I continue our conversation about common myths people believe about sexual health. In part two we discuss simultaneous orgasms with a partner, what low libido is and isn’t, female sexual dysfunction, and pornography. This myth-busters episode offers facts and alternatives to reframe and nourish your healthy sexuality.

www.cindyscharkey.com

Dr. Uchenna “UC” Ossai is a sex-positive pelvic health physical therapist and sexuality educator and counselor. She is assistant professor at the UT Dell Medical School and pelvic health program manager at UT Health Austin.
Youseelogic.com

Visit our episode sponsor COCONU and receive 15% off your order with code Pleasure.

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Myth-Busting: Part One14 Jul 202100:27:51

Part 1
Dr. Uchenna Ossai joins me for a thoughtful discussion busting some of the common myths people believe about sexual health. In part one we talk about orgasms, pleasure, foundational sexual beliefs, our mind and sex, and orgasming alone vs partnered. After hearing this episode, one listener said, “This was like a free therapy session - anyone could have some really excellent takeaways from this conversation!”

www.cindyscharkey.com

Dr. Uchenna “UC” Ossai is a sex-positive pelvic health physical therapist and sexuality educator and counselor. She is assistant professor at the UT Dell Medical School and pelvic health program manager at UT Health Austin.
Youseelogic.com

Visit our episode sponsor COCONU and receive 15% off your order with code Pleasure.

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What She Wants You to Know About Oral28 May 202500:16:38

Oral sex is a highly reliable path to pleasure and orgasm for women. This episode is the second most downloaded of all episodes on the show. So, I am bringing it back for new listener's and their partner's. I talk about creating anticipation, building arousal toward crescendo and specific tongue techniques to stimulate the clitoris and vulva. Also hear tips on positioning, when to add variety, and when to stick with consistency. Learn the signs of approaching orgasm, to help your partner go over the edge with pleasure.

Mentioned in this episode:
The Kivin Method -Oral Sideways
Make Some Noise
Temperature Play
The Key to Women’s Pleasure
The Clitoris - it’s a network!
The Clitoris has a hood
Female Anatomy 101
She Comes First Book Review
Using Your Senses for Pleasure
Why Arousal Takes More Than 5 Minutes
Men and Sex
Talking about sex with a partner
Communication, Couples and Sex

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Let’s Go Girls: Hailey from Pasadena30 Jun 202100:38:19

This is a Special Episode, where members of our community share their stories and we explore what women hear about sex, their bodies, and pleasure. Hailey from Pasadena is my first guest and we talk about curiosity, consent, and both the silence and common narratives that many women take in who grow up in a conservative community.


www.cindyscharkey.com
Sign up for my newsletter
Ask a question

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Let’s Talk Orgasms16 Jun 202100:31:46

Dr. Erica Marchand joins me for a conversation about female orgasms and pleasure. Are orgasms a learnable skill? What are the components necessary for orgasm? Do orgasms really look like we see in the media? Dr. Erica and I answer these questions as well as why women fake them, do we need to rank them, and more about the Big O.

Erica Marchand, Ph.D. is a licensed psychologist in Los Angeles and the creator of the Big O Masterclass, an online course that uses sex therapy principles to help women learn to have orgasms, by themselves or with a partner, from the privacy of home.
Learn more about Dr. Erica

Learn more about these topics
Answering your questions about orgasm
Faking orgasm
The clitoris - it's a network
Stimulation of the clitoral hood
Pleasure techniques with penetration
Level up your pleasure with 20 different orgasms
Education and Tips for Multiple Orgasms
Orgasm is a Big Brain Event

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What Pelvic Health Has To Do With Painful Sex02 Jun 202100:41:01

If you experience pain with sex, please listen to this episode! Dr. Heather Jeffcoat joins me for an in depth conversation about all things pelvic health, specifically causes and treatment options for painful sex. You might want to have a pen and paper handy as we cover many topics, including: causes of pain, what pelvic floor physical therapy is and how it can help, dilators, sex & exercise after a baby, and how to do a kegel correctly.

Heather Jeffcoat DPT is the founder of Fusion Wellness & Femina Physical Therapy, and author of Sex Without Pain: A Self Treatment Guide to the Sex Life You Deserve.
Receive 20% off a PDF download of Heather’s book at SexWithoutPainBook.com using code PLEASURE20.

⁣⁣Visit our episode sponsor: OHNUT and receive 15% off your order with code CINDY

More on this topic:
Tips from my pelvic floor therapist
Stretched-out vaginas and other myths

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Pain and Sex19 May 202100:12:57

Painful sex is not normal, yet according to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 3 out of 4 women do experience pain during intercourse at some point during their lives. This quickie episode covers the 3 key things to consider if you are experiencing painful penetration at any point in your life. Essential education for every woman to know today or for the future.

www.cindyscharkey.com

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Communication, Couples and Sex (Part Two)05 May 202100:31:36

My discussion with Meygan Caston, co-founder of Marriage365, continues with more tips and prompts for couples learning to talk about sex. In part two we dive into: how to handle when one partner is not in the mood, introducing something new, when one partner is vanilla and the other is 31 flavors, and foreplay with words! Meygan shares her personal vibrator story and offers connecting questions to help get you started with your own healthy conversations.

www.cindyscharkey.com

Meygan Caston is the co-founder of Marriage365

www.marriage365.com


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Communication, Couples and Sex (Part One)05 May 202100:25:18

Talking about sex with a partner can feel awkward and scary. Shame, fearing rejection and hurt feelings - these can be huge roadblocks to honest communication in this area of a relationship. Meygan Caston, co-founder of Marriage365, joins me for a discussion packed with practical communication tips, ways to break down barriers and conversation starters galore.

Learn more about Marriage365.

Learn more on these topics:
Talking with a partner about sex
When a partner wants to try something new
Want to have better sex? Ask these questions!
Sexual Communication
Talking about sex (when things aren't great)

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Mother / Daughter Interview: Healthy Conversations About Sex21 Apr 202100:24:32

This episode gets personal as my oldest daughter interviews me around healthy conversations about sex. We chat about the ways I talked with my own daughters about sexual health, tips for parents, developing your own sexual relationship, and discussion prompts for partners. This intimate interview will offer you some useful tools to start your own healthy conversations.

Find me on IG @cindyscharkey

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Partner Sexual Desire Discrepancies07 Apr 202100:35:01

If you experience conflict in your relationship over sexual desire, you’re not alone. According to my guest expert, every couple has a difference in sexual desire! Do men and women experience desire differently? Are we really supposed to just feel sexual desire? How can couples work through this issue in a healthy way? This conversation answers these questions and more.
 
Leslie Gustafson, LMFT, and AASECT CST is a Sex, Women’s & Marriage Master Coach who’s heart and mission is to “Unleash Women & Couples into Empowered Lives, Lasting Love and Amazing Intimacy.” She provides personal coaching through her transformational programs -Get Your Dream Marriage and Amazing You! Women’s Program. Host of The Smart Sex Podcast, you can find her on IG @LeslieGustafson1

Learn more about these topics
Why don't I want sex as much as my partner?
The truth about desire

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Understanding Your Desire Style For Better Sex 24 Mar 202100:09:32

There is more than one way to experience desire. Sexual desire works a lot like curiosity. Think of it like this: What has to happen for you to be motivated to have sex? Learn about the different desire styles, and why it’s normal for you and a partner to experience desire differently.
 
Learn more on this topic
Why don't I want sex as much as my partner
The truth about desire
Partner desire discrepancies
Want better sex? Ask yourself these questions
Sexual communication

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Cliteracy 10 Mar 202100:27:17

Dr. Laurie Mintz, author of Becoming Cliterate, joins Cindy for a discussion about female pleasure, cliteracy and the orgasm gap. Why are women having fewer orgasms than men? What do women really need to experience more pleasure? This conversation provides the education and tools to get you started on the journey to orgasm equality.

Dr. Mintz is a feminist professor, author, speaker and therapist. You can learn more about her at www.drlauriemintz.com, or watch her TEDx talk, Becoming Cliterate: Why Orgasm Equality Matters and How to Get It.

More on this topic
The clitoris - it's a network!
Clitoris demo video
The clitoral hood and how to pleasure it
Anatomy 101
Pleasure techniques with penetration

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Slow Pleasure with Euphemia Russell14 May 202500:47:15

Want to slow down and experience more pleasure in your life? Euphemia Russell, a somatic coach and author of Slow Pleasure shares practical ways to focus on sensations, as well as practices to shift your state towards enlivening. Learn to create pleasure habits and increase your capacity for pleasure in and out of the bedroom.

Euphemia Russell is a somatic coach and bestselling author ofSlow Pleasure. They are trained in somatic coaching, International Coaching Federation, sex-positive education, sexual violence counselling, trauma-informed facilitation, and has a background in Community Cultural Development.

Mentioned in this episode:
Sexual Wellness and Pleasure List with Michal
The Pleasure Crisis with Nan Wise
Learning to Listen to Your Body with Hillary McBride
Connecting With Our Body and Nervous System with Aurora Allen

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The Key To Female Pleasure03 Mar 202100:11:00

Cindy Scharkey RN, BSN walks you through the amazing anatomy of the clitoris. There is so much more than you can see on the surface. Learn about the thousands of nerve endings, all the erectile tissue, and why female arousal takes more than 5 minutes. The truth about the clitoris? It is a whole network... and the key to female pleasure.

More on this topic
The clitoris - it's a network!
Clitoris demo video
The clitoral hood and how to pleasure it
Anatomy 101
Pleasure techniques with penetration

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Permission for Pleasure: Pilot01 Mar 202100:01:18

A podcast to educate and equip women with the information and confidence they need to express, experience and enjoy their sexuality. Cindy Scharkey RN, BSN, brings her 30+ years of experience as a health-care professional to open the doors to healthy conversations about sex. This is a community where you can listen and learn to give yourself permission for pleasure.
 
Visit  www.cindyscharkey.com for education blogs and newsletter.

ORDER my Book: Permission for Pleasure: Tending Your Sexual Garden
JOIN my Newsletter: Good Education for Good Sex
FOLLOW on Instagram @cindyscharkey
VISIT my website and blog

Just How Much Does Frequency Matter?30 Apr 202500:34:18

Dr. Candice Nicole Hargons, a leading expert in sex research, shares her list of ingredients for good sex from her book Good Sex: Stories, Science and Strategies for Sexual Liberation. She walks us through strategies to study our sexual satisfaction as well as tools to increase it. Does frequency make the list? Nope? Tune in to learn what does.

Dr. Candice Nicole Hargons is an award-winning associate professor at Emory University’s Rollins School of Public Health and author of Good Sex. As a thought leader, Dr. Hargons continues to shape the conversation around sexual wellness, advocating for liberation and wellness within marginalized communities.

Mentioned in this episode:
How Curiosity Fuels Desire with Emily Jamea
The Rise in Rough Sex with Debby Herbenick
What’s Ruining Sex for Men with Cam Fraser

ORDER my Book: Permission for Pleasure: Tending Your Sexual Garden
JOIN my Newsletter: Good Education for Good Sex
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VISIT my website and blog

Poetry and Pleasure16 Apr 202500:34:48

I’m bringing back conversations with members of our community where they share their stories and we explore what they have learned about their bodies, sex and pleasure. My new friend and poet, Sarah Jeannine Gawthrop, joins me to talk about her journey of pleasure reclamation through the sacred forest and poetry.

Sarah Gawthrop is a queer, neurodiverse poet and editor on the West Coast of Canada. Her writing explores themes of place, identity, and longing, with a focus on how nature shapes our sense of self. When she's not walking in the forest, she's studying Creative Writing or working with PULPmag and ROOM Magazine. Her first poetry collection, Topophilia: A Strong Sense of Place, celebrates our deep connections with people and places. Connect with her on Instagram @sarahjeanninewrites

ORDER my Book: Permission for Pleasure: Tending Your Sexual Garden
JOIN my Newsletter: Good Education for Good Sex
FOLLOW on Instagram @cindyscharkey
VISIT my website and blog

Community Questions: Semen, Pre-cum and Wet Dreams02 Apr 202500:10:03

Answering your community questions: “Do I have to swallow?” “Can I get pregnant from pre-cum?” and “Are wet dreams normal?” I’ll also explain the difference between semen and sperm, why a cum cloth is a good idea and the pregnancy rate with the pull-out method. 

Mentioned in this episode:
Can I get pregnant from pre-cum?
Can men be multi-orgasmic?
Do women ejaculate? What is squirting?
Cum cloth: Play Towel by Coconu use code 30PLEASURE

ORDER my Book: Permission for Pleasure: Tending Your Sexual Garden
JOIN my Newsletter: Good Education for Good Sex
FOLLOW on Instagram @cindyscharkey
VISIT my website and blog

Level Up Your Pleasure With 20 Types of Orgasms19 Mar 202500:40:58

Susan Bratton calls herself the “Orgasmanaut.” She’s here to share what she has learned, along with some juicy and practical ways for you to experience more orgasms. As her mentor taught her; with sex - there is always something more! Listen to hear the ingredient list and recipe to follow for more!

Visit our episode sponsor UBERLUBE and use discount code CINDY 

Susan Bratton, "Intimacy Expert to Millions" is a champion and advocate for all those who desire intimacy and passion their whole life long. She’s created hundreds of techniques that transform “having sex” into making love and is the world’s most well-respected sexual biohacker.

More on this topic:
Permission for Pleasure: Tending Your Sexual Garden
Cliteracy and the Orgasm Gap
Everything You Need to Know About the Clitoris
The Clitoris has a Hood
What Women Need to Orgasm
Pleasure Techniques
Female Arousal
Desire Styles
Why Vibrators Work for Women and How to Choose One
Maude Vibe use code CINDY10
Toys, Fantasy, and Play in the Bedroom
Can Men Be Multi-orgasmic


ORDER my Book: Permission for Pleasure: Tending Your Sexual Garden
JOIN my Newsletter: Good Education for Good Sex
FOLLOW on Instagram @cindyscharkey
VISIT my website and blog

Erotic Personas with Nicholas Velotta of Arya05 Mar 202500:42:51

If you want to enhance the intimacy and eroticsm in your relationship - this conversation is for you! Nicolas Velotta, lead relationship researcher for Arya - a couples sexual wellness company, talks about erotic styles and four specific erotic personas. This episode will help you to open a conversation about your turn-on's, desires and preferences with a partner.

Learn more about Arya and use discount code CS15

Nicholas Velotta is a relationship scientist and sexologist exploring how technology shapes our most intimate connections. As the Head of Relationship Research at Arya—the world’s leading relationship wellness app—he uses cutting-edge methods to develop psychological profiles of our erotic and emotional selves. Blending research with innovation, Nicholas designs AI-powered algorithms that curate personalized experiences aimed at deepening relationship and sexual satisfaction. 

ORDER my Book: Permission for Pleasure: Tending Your Sexual Garden
JOIN my Newsletter: Good Education for Good Sex
FOLLOW on Instagram @cindyscharkey
VISIT my website and blog

Sexual Wellness and Pleasure Wish List19 Feb 202500:49:33

When I saw Michal Morrison's Sexual Wellness and Pleasure list on Threads, I thought, "Who is this woman and how did she come up with this amazing list?!" Learn about toys, tools, good reads and more to empower you on your wellness and pleasure journey.

Visit our episode sponsor UBERLUBE use code CINDY for 15% off

Michal Morrison is an Austin-based entrepreneur and the founder of her eponymous brand, Michal Morrison—a cutting-edge skincare company rooted in science and powered by groundbreaking stem cell technology. With a passion for science-based innovation, Michal has worked in health-focused startups and femtech companies, championing wellbeing in both the health and beauty spaces. Beyond her entrepreneurial pursuits, Michal is committed to social impact, championing causes around women's health, gender equality, and mental health.

Mentioned in this episode:
Tabu Prim Pillow
Positions with props
Ohnut use discount code CINDY 
Foria melts
Uberlube use discount code CINDY
Come As You Are book review
She Comes First book review
Permission for Pleasure: Tending Your Sexual Garden
Spicy Audio Stories
Lioness
Sex and Pain
What Pelvic Health has to do with painful sex
Stretched out vaginas and other myths with Heather Jeffcoat DPT
Tips from my pelvic floor therapist
Pleasure techniques with penetration
Guide to lube
OMGYES
Rosy App
Lelo
Dame Eva
All bodies
Lorals

ORDER my Book: Permission for Pleasure: Tending Your Sexual Garden
JOIN my Newsletter: Good Education for Good Sex
FOLLOW on Instagram @cindyscharkey
VISIT my website and blog

Purity Culture's Effect on Men15 Oct 202500:43:20

We talk a lot about the repercussions of purity culture for women, but what about men? This topic is often silenced, creating what sexuality educator Erica Smith calls a “fertile ground for shame.” She joins me to break the taboo, sharing the after effects men frequently encounter. 

Erica Smith is an award winning sexuality educator and consultant with 25 years of experience. She developed the Purity Culture Dropout™️ Program to help people learn all of the sex education that they missed growing up in purity culture- sex ed that is accurate, queer inclusive, trauma informed, compassionate, and comprehensive. 

More on this topic:
Evolving out of purity culture
Reclaim your arousal mindset
Untangling sexual shame
Masturbation - let’s dig in
Masculinity narratives with Cam Fraser
My letter to young women
Misconceptions men believe about sex
Embodiment and pleasure with Hillary McBride PhD

ORDER my Book: Permission for Pleasure: Tending Your Sexual Garden
JOIN my Newsletter: Good Education for Good Sex
FOLLOW on Instagram @cindyscharkey
VISIT my website and blog

Gifts for Your Valentine, Galentine and Yourself05 Feb 202500:14:08

Just in time for love month, I'm sharing some gift ideas for lovers, friends and something for yourself. I introduce you to Arya, a sexual wellness subscription for couples, focused on reigniting your passion and bolstering communication. You'll also hear ways to explore your sexuality and how to be a permission giver to your friends. This Valentine's Day, let's prioritize pleasure.

Mentioned in this episode:
ARYA use discount code CS15
Temperature Play
Ways to explore your sexuality other than masturbation
Permission for Pleasure: Tending Your Sexual Garden
My Letter to Young Women
Want Better Sex? Ask the Questions
Sensuality: Pleasure with Your Senses
Bodies, Nervous System and Mindfulness with Aurora
Mindfulnessm, Desire and Sex with Dr. Lori Brotto

ORDER my Book: Permission for Pleasure: Tending Your Sexual Garden
JOIN my Newsletter: Good Education for Good Sex
FOLLOW on Instagram @cindyscharkey
VISIT my website and blog

How Anxiety and Perfectionism Show Up in Your Sex Life22 Jan 202500:42:38

Do you struggle with anxiety or perfectionism? Therapist Caitlin Harrison joins me for a down to earth conversation about how anxiety shows up in our inner thoughts and the bedroom. You’ll hear discussion about purity culture, sexual shame, and how anxiety can disrupt the arousal process.

Learn more about Caitlin Harrison, LMFT

More on these topics:
When the problematic people are the ones we love
Evolving out of purity culture
Untangling sexual shame
Reclaim your arousal mindset
Let's Go Girls: Hailey from Pasadena
Orgasm is a big brain event
Masturbation: Let's dig in
Connecting with our bodies and nervous system for better sex
Pleasurable touch exercise

ORDER my Book: Permission for Pleasure: Tending Your Sexual Garden
JOIN my Newsletter: Good Education for Good Sex
FOLLOW on Instagram @cindyscharkey
VISIT my website and blog

Season Five: Launching the book I wrote for YOU!08 Jan 202500:09:25

Welcome to season 5 and my book launch! Join me as I share why I wrote Permission for Pleasure: Tending Your Sexual Garden. Since we can't all gather together across the globe I am bringing the party to you.

More on these topics:
Spicy Audio Stories
Masturbation: Let's Dig In
Uberlube use code CINDY for 15%
Foria Arousal Oil 
Arya use code CS15

ORDER my Book: Permission for Pleasure: Tending Your Sexual Garden
JOIN my Newsletter: Good Education for Good Sex
FOLLOW on Instagram @cindyscharkey
VISIT my website and blog

Two Ways Affection Can Deepen Your Connection25 Dec 202400:10:43

Wrapping up Season 4 with two proven ways affection can deeper your connection. Use the practices of kissing for 6 seconds and hugging for 30 seconds to strengthen your relationships.

Permission for Pleasure: Tending Your Sexual Garden
 
Permission to Grieve

ORDER my Book: Permission for Pleasure: Tending Your Sexual Garden
JOIN my Newsletter: Good Education for Good Sex
FOLLOW on Instagram @cindyscharkey
VISIT my website and blog

*Sneak Peak* Permission for Pleasure the BOOK!11 Dec 202400:12:20

Great sex is a mind and body experience. To truly enjoy the sex you're having - you have to be paying attention to the sex you are having! In this episode, I read you a short excerpt from my book Permission for Pleasure: Tending Your Sexual Garden focused on strengthening your mind-body connection.  My book is available now for pre-order with a special 20% holiday discount through the month of December.

Holiday PRE-ORDER discount!

More on this topic
Better Sex Through Mindfulness Book Review
The Truth About Desire with Dr. Brotto
Desire and Mindfulness with Dr. Brotto
Relieving the Mental Load 

ORDER my Book: Permission for Pleasure: Tending Your Sexual Garden
JOIN my Newsletter: Good Education for Good Sex
FOLLOW on Instagram @cindyscharkey
VISIT my website and blog

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