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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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TitlePub. DateDuration
Hidden Desire Killers in Your Relationship23 Sep 202600:19:08

Do you have a hidden desire killer happening within your relationship? Researcher Dr. Candice Nicole Hargons is back to discuss one of her latest studies about the consequences of replacing partnering with supervising in a relationship. Hear how caretaking and correcting each other can be the enemies of eroticism, and how to fix it.

Find Dr. Candice Nicole Hargons

Mentioned in this episode
Arya use code CS15
How much does frequency matter with Dr. Candice
Self-pleasure and women’s wellness with Dr. Candice
Talking with a partner about sex
5 questions every couple should answer
Sexual communication
Communication, Couples and Sex

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How Your Attachment Style Influences Your Sex Life09 Sep 202600:39:38

Do you experience a dynamic of push-and-pull in your relationship? Or a cycle of one partner pursuing sex and one partner withdrawing? These common scenarios are explained by my guest Laurie Watson, PhD, a leading expert in sexual attachment. She shares how your attachment style affects your sexual relationship, including how to work toward a secure attachment for great sex. As Laurie says, “Great sex isn’t about technique, but about attunement.” 

Laurie’s Love and Sex Quiz
Brave Love Great Sex

More on these topics:
Keeping it hot in long term relationships
Practices for positive relationships
Sexual communication
Want better sex? Ask yourself these questions
Five questions for couples
Why don't I want sex as much as my partner

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Own Your Pleasure26 Aug 202600:34:52

Many people don’t take ownership of their own pleasure. Whether you don’t feel deserving, feel like it’s a partner’s responsibility, were taught it’s selfish, or just never thought about it in this way - my guest Brooke Bralove wants you to know you deserve pleasure. Join us as we delve into taking ownership of your own pleasure and the steps to get you there.

Visit our episode sponsor Uberlube and use discount code CINDY

Find Brooke Bralove

Mentioned in this episode:
Mindfulness with Dr. Lori Brotto
What are you saying with your touch with Dr. Sara Nasserzadeh
Embracing your desire and sexual agency
The pleasure crisis and why good sex matters

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

Variety is an Aphrodisiac12 Aug 202600:09:13

In long term relationships it’s easy to fall into a sexual routine. When sex becomes boring, it’s hard to stay interested! Listen in to hear how to create minor risks, introduce an element of unpredictability and generate sexual excitement for an enduring sex life.

Mentioned in this episode:
Affection and Touch
How Curiosity Fuels Desire
Positions with Props
Kink Curious
Coital Alignment Technique
Vanilla with a Cherry on Top
Embracing Your Desire
Keeping it Hot in Long Term Relationships

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

Painful Periods, Pelvic Pain and Endometriosis29 Jul 202600:39:13

Women’s pain is often dismissed, especially pelvic pain and painful periods. Mallory Stuparich MD joins me to talk about endometriosis and how to advocate for yourself. We discuss symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for women suffering from what’s often referred to as the “invisible disease.” 

Find @MalloryStuparichMD on socials

Mentioned in this episode:
Tips from my pelvic floor therapist
Stretched out vaginas and other myths
Pelvic health and pelvic pain

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

Try This Variation on Missionary15 Jul 202600:05:30

Pairing clitoral stimulation with penetrative sex is often the route for more pleasure and orgasms for women. In this episode, learn about a technique called Coital Alignment. This is a variation on the missionary position that incorporates pairing and rocking techniques. 

Mentioned in this episode:
Pleasure techniques on the blog
Pleasure techniques episode
What you need to know about the clitoris
Cliteracy
Becoming Cliterate book review

ORDER my Book: Permission for Pleasure: Tending Your Sexual Garden
JOIN my Newsletter: Good Education for Good Sex
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Self-pleasure and Women's Wellness01 Jul 202600:26:10

Pleasure is good for you! Researcher Dr. Candice Nicole Hargons joins me to discuss the data on the wellness benefits of masturbation. Learn some suprising upsides for your sleep, confidence and stress level with the results of this study on self-pleasure and vibrator use.

Learn more about Dr. Candice

Mentioned in this episode:
Dr. Candice in Season Five
Masturbation with August McLaughlin
Researcher Debby Herbenick on the podcast: Rise in rough sex
Why vibrators work for women and how to choose one
Community questions: Vibrators, Edging and Anal Sex
Natural health benefits of orgasms
The pleasure crisis and why good sex matters

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

Your Erotic Potential and Cervical Orgasms 17 Jun 202600:38:09

It’s time to unlock your erotic potential with somatic psychotherapist and sex therapist Carly Mountain. She joins me to talk about her newest book, Untamed Pleasure: Unleash Your True Erotic Nature. Learn about embodied pleasure, why women need relaxed arousal, and how the cervix can be a powerful portal of orgasmic potential. 

Learn more about Carly Mountain

In this episode:
Embodiment and pleasure
Just how much does frequency matter
Keeping it hot in long term relationship
Untangling sexual shame
Women’s Anatomy of Arousal  book review
Tips for multiple orgasms

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

Vanilla Sex with a Cherry on Top03 Jun 202600:08:30

Vanilla sex is loved by many, but for some it can get a little mundane. Have you ever wanted to add a touch of variety? Nothing too crazy or complicated but something to spark curiosity? In this episode I share four easy ideas to add a cherry on top of vanilla sex.

Visit our episode sponsor Uberlube and use code CINDY

Mentioned in this episode:
Ten tips to a better bedroom on the blog
Sexify your space episode
Guide to lube
Using your senses for pleasure
Foreplay 101
Turn up the volume on your sex life
Positions with props
Kink curious
Five questions for couples

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

An Invitation to Real Self-Care20 May 202600:39:44

Women often feel burnout from taking care of everyone around them before caring for themselves. The term self-care is trending, but how can we go about doing it? Therapist Jen Hershey joins me to share her perspective, including ideas around alignment and learning to listen to your inner authority. This conversation is an invitation to move through life with more trust, clarity and intention.

Learn more about Jen Hershey, LMFT

ORDER my Book: Permission for Pleasure: Tending Your Sexual Garden
JOIN my Newsletter: Good Education for Good Sex
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Finger Techniques06 May 202600:10:44

Dial up the heat of arousal using your fingers! Listen in to learn some new techniques including various kinds of pressure, rhythms and motions. Discover broadening, hinting, and different styles of finger touch for increased pleasure.

Visit our episode sponsor Uberlube, use code CINDY 

More on these topics
The clitoris is a whole network
The clitoral hood
The G-spot
24 conversation starters to help you talk about sex with a partner

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

What Influences Your Arousal 22 Apr 202600:13:49

Have you ever been having sex and suddenly your arousal just disappears? From this episode you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how arousal and desire really work, as well as factors that influence it. You’ll also learn three things research shows that long-term couples can do to experience sexual satisfaction as desire changes over time.

Mentioned in this episode:
Sex on the brain
Understanding  sexual desire styles
Partner sexual desire discrepancies
How curiosity fuels desire
Reclaim your arousal mindset
Community questions: arousal, role play and condoms
3 tips for speeding up arousal

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

Vibrators: Why They Work and How to Choose One08 Apr 202600:10:04

Vibrators and sex toys don’t have to be scary or overwhelming. And they certainly aren’t bad or taboo. In this episode I walk through why vibrators work for women and how to choose one. I also offer a few communication tips for introducing a toy with a partner.

Mentioned in the episode:
Clitoral Network blog
Pleasure techniques with penetration
Maude use code CINDY10
The Clitoris has a hood
Megan’s episode about introducing a vibrator
Vibrator episode with Dr. Shannon Chavez
Vibrators on the blog
When a partner wants to try something new
Intimate Wellbeing use CINDY15
Dame

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

Healthy Sexuality After Addiction and Trauma25 Mar 202600:41:43

Vanessa Carlisle, PhD, MFA joins me to talk about their book co-authored with Stephanie Covington called: Awaken Your Sexuality: A Guide to Connection and Intimacy after Addiction and Trauma. We discuss the prevalence and normalization of substances as a pathway to sexual behavior, and how sexual responses can be filtered and affected through this lens. Vanessa also shares how shame can keep us from using our personal power to find intimacy and a satisfying sex life.

Learn more about Vanessa Carlisle, PhD, MFA

More on this topic:
Slow Pleasure with Euphemia Russell
Sexual shame with Mathias Roberts
Using your senses for pleasure
Pleasure after trauma
Supporting Survivors

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

Education and Tips for Multiple Orgasms11 Mar 202600:12:47

Did you know it’s possible to have more than one orgasm in a single sexual session? In this episode we discuss how women can experience multiple orgasms including techniques to explore for wave after wave of pleasure.

Visit our episode sponsor Uberlube with code CINDY


Mentioned in this episode:
The clitoral network
What is edging?
A woman's arousal takes more than 5 minutes
Different kinds of orgams
Level up your pleasure with these 20 orgasms
The clitoral hood
Vibrators for women
Pleasure techniques with penetration
Sex and your brain
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

Kink Curious with Gigi Engle25 Feb 202600:47:17

Have you ever been curious about kink? If so, this is the perfect conversation for you! Certified Sex and Relationships Psychotherapist, Sex Educator, and Author Gigi Engle joins me to offer a guide to exploring kink and erotic sensation. We discuss popular kinks, power dynamics, impact play and more. Expand your sexual menu with ideas and suggestions to amplify your senses through kinky play.

Find Gigi Engle and Kink Curious

Mentioned in this episode:
Temperature play
Toys, fantasy and play in the bedroom
Untangling sexual shame
Desire discrepancies
When one partner's vanilla and the other is 31 flavors
Vanilla with a cherry on top
When a partner wants to try something new

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

Five Questions for Couples11 Feb 202600:11:21

Listen in for the five questions to answer with a partner for greater pleasure and discovery. Sexual communication is your key to unlocking boredom, assumptions and resentment in the bedroom. Lean into your curiosity with these questions and discover more intimacy and vibrancy in your sex life.

Find the podcast page with all the links

ORDER my Book: Permission for Pleasure: Tending Your Sexual Garden
JOIN my Newsletter: Good Education for Good Sex
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Keeping it Hot in Long-Term Relationships28 Jan 202600:37:21

Want to re-eroticize your long-term relationship and keep the fires burning for the long-haul? Somatic Psychologist, and Sex Therapist Dr. Holly Richmond joins us with expert advice for couples. She gets practical with flirting techniques, understanding your sexual template, and the four things healthy couples do to have a thriving relationship in and out of the bedroom.

Dr. Holly Richmond  is a licensed marriage and family therapist, certified sex therapist, and holds a PhD in Somatic Psychology, and is the associate director of Modern Sex Therapy Institutes.

More on these topics:
Pleasure after trauma episode with Holly
Reclaiming Pleasure Book Review
Partner desire discrepancies
Desire styles
How much does frequency matter?
Erotic personas
Erectile dissatisfaction vs Erectile dysfunction
Affection and the 6 second kiss

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

Heated Rivalry’s Intimacy Coordinator Chala Hunter14 Jan 202600:44:45

Take a peek into the role of Intimacy Coordinator for Heated Rivalry, the TV show everyone’s talking about. Chala Hunter shares what an intimacy coordinator’s job is, and how she worked to create comfort and safety on set for the simulated sex scenes, nudity and all things intimacy. We discuss the cast and crew vibe while filming the show, and the intentionality around modeling safe, consensual and pleasurable sex. Learn why Director Jacob Tierney calls Chala, “The hero of this show!” 

Learn more about Chala Hunter

Visit our episode sponsor Uberlube use code CINDY 

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Season Six: Let's Get Curious07 Jan 202600:06:19

This season we are going to lean into deeper curiosity about our bodies, sex and pleasure. Through education and conversations with experts, we’ll increase our knowledge, and challenge ourselves to ask the burning questions. Let’s cultivate curiosity, give ourselves permission, and embrace more pleasure in and out of the bedroom. Welcome to Season Six!

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Better Bones: How to Lower the Risk of Osteoporosis24 Dec 202500:44:23

Did you know that bone building starts to decline at age 30? That means for many of us, especially women in midlife, osteoporosis is a real concern. Registered Dietician, and Integrative & Functional Nutritionist Susan McCandless joins me to share what breaks down your bone health and what builds it up. She offers practical suggestions and guidelines to help you adjust your diet for strong, dense and flexible bones. You’ll come away feeling empowered to make bone health a priority for a confident and active life.


Susan McCandless is a Functional Dietitian Nutritionist, and holds advanced certifications in digestive health, immunology, genetics, food sensitivities and intuitive eating. Board Certified in Integrativce and Functional Nutrition, Susan understands how body systems work together. She focuses on improving client function and performance by treating the root cause of nutrition imbalances. 

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Sex and the Myths of Motherhood10 Dec 202500:22:33

Dr. Jessica Vernon and I continue our conversation about transitioning to parenthood. In this episode we focus on postpartum sex, the challenges women face with their changing bodies, and creating intimacy with a partner. We also call out the common myths of motherhood that in reality are unattainable: the martyr, the goddess, the superwoman and the homemaker.

Jessica Vernon, MD is an obstetrician, perinatal mental health expert, and author of “Then Comes Baby: An Honest Conversation about Birth, Postpartum, and the Complex Transition to Parenthood” 

Mentioned in this episode:
Sex After Baby
Sexy in Survival Mode
Postpartum Support International
Sex and Pregnancy
Sex and Postpartum and Breastfeeding
Your Body after Baby
Guide to lube
Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy with Heather Jeffcoat, DPT
Does a vaginal delivery ruin my vagina?
Tips from my pelvic floor PT

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Real Talk About Birth, Postpartum, and Parenthood26 Nov 202500:26:29

Did you know that 45% of women report birth trauma? The ripple effects of that are often never talked about. Obstetrician, and perinatal mental health expert Dr. Jessica Vernon joins me for a straightforward conversation about her book, Then Comes Baby: An Honest Conversation about Birth, Postpartum, and the Complex Transition to Parenthood. We discuss sleep deprivation, baby blues, and how to recognize postpartum depression and anxiety.

Learn more about Jessica Vernon MD

More on this topic:
Sex and Pregnancy
Sex and Postpartum and Breastfeeding
Your body after baby
Sex After Baby
Sexy in survival mode
Postpartum Support International

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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

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

What Women Need to Orgasm01 Oct 202500:30:11

Is orgasm a learnable skill? My guest Dr. Erica Marchand outlines the necessary components women need to orgasm in this top 10 episode from Season One. We discuss faking O’s, ranking O’s, and the mind-body shift of allowing rather than making orgasm happen.

Erica Marchand, Ph.D. is a licensed psychologist offering individual, couples and sex therapy in Los Angeles.

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


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

Embodiment and Pleasure with Dr. Hillary McBride17 Sep 202500:33:08

One of the most shared episodes on the podcast, this conversation about pleasure and embodiment offers a framework for understanding a healthier way to be in your body. Hillary McBride, PhD provides tools to help us untangle the cultural scripts we have taken in, along with gentle guidance for how we can reframe sensuality and learn to listen to our bodies. 

Hillary McBride, PhD., is a therapist, researcher, speaker and author

More on these topics:
Mother's, Daughter's and Body Image, read my book review
Dating your body with Aurora
Reconnecting to yourself and to your body
Slow Pleasure with Euphemia Russell
Connecting with our bodies and nervous systems
Healing journey with Ruthie Lindsay
Coming home to yourself with Arielle Estoria

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Slippery When Wet: Shower Sex for Beginners03 Sep 202500:07:11

From logistics on positioning, to setting the stage before you step in - in this episode I talk you through the basics on how to add shower sex to your intimacy repertoire. Showering together has never been more fun, safe and intimate.

Mentioned in this episode:
Pleasure Practice
Uberlube use code CINDY
Shower sex for beginners on the blog

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

Women, ADHD and Sex20 Aug 202500:54:55

Catriona Boffard, a Clinical Sexologist, Psychotherapist, Sexuality Researcher, Podcaster and Author joins me to share her personal experience, and clinical expertise in a discussion about women and ADHD - how it can affect your brain, sex, and life. You’ll hear all about orgasms, medications, sexual cues and solutions to common communication challenges.

Catriona Boffard is an expert in the field of sexual behavior, well-being, and mental health, and is particularly passionate about working with people who face difficulties in their sexual experience. She hosts the podcast Asking for a Friend and is an internationally recognized authority in the field of sexuality and relationships.

Mentioned in this episode
Anxiety, Perfectionism and Sex
Mindfulness with Dr. Lori Brotto on the podcast
Better Sex Through Mindfulness book review
ADHD and Tips for Sex 

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

Sex Over 50: Tips, Tools and Desire06 Aug 202500:16:07

Continuing our conversation for the over 50 crowd with helpful tips including transition time, positions, pillows, vibrators and more. Listen in as we get creative with shifts in desire, and tools to accommodate our changing bodies. Learn ways to make sex more interesting. 

More on these topics
Desire styles
Embracing your desire
How curiosity fuels desire
Vaginal estrogen, vaginal moisturizers, and lube for sex
Erectile dissatisfaction vs. Erectile dysfunction
Sexual adaptations and aids for all bodies
Pain and Sex
Arya intimacy concierge and scene guidance use code CS15
When a partner wants to try something new
Positions with props
Tabu Prim Pillow
Why vibrators work for women and how to choose one
Intimate Wellbeing use code CINDY15
Bedroom Games
Coconu card game use code 30PLEASURE
Naked At Our Age book review

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Sex Over 50 23 Jul 202500:10:57

Menopause doesn’t mean your sex life is over. In fact, you may find yourself having the best sex of your life! Join me for a chat specifically for the over 50 crowd. Let’s talk about desire, arousal, and changing things up as we change. Your pleasure matters!

Visit our episode sponsor Uberlube, use CINDY 

Mentioned in this episode:
Guide to lube
Perimenopause: Hormones and Symptoms
Perimenopause: Treatment Options

Everything we get wrong about initiation
Two ways affection can deepen your connection
Midlife and Menopause with Heather
Sexual reset for midlife women

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Redefine Sexy 09 Jul 202500:37:14

Community guest Kaleigh Osadick joins me to share ideas to remove shame around self-expression. We chat about challenging the norms, and reframing what defines sexy. Learn to role play with her scene creation tips, and gain the confidence to be the main character in your sex life! 


Kaleigh Osadick is an educator, coach and producer with over a decade of experience teaching acting, voice, and embodiment. With a background in theatre, and psychology-through play and voice, she's helped many clients-from students, adults with special needs, and aspiring performers find their voice and power both on camera and in life. 

Mentioned in this episode:
Turn up the volume on your sex life
Arousal and Role Play
Confidence is sexy with Dana
Bedroom games
Toys, fantasy and play in the bedroom 

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 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

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 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

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

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

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

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

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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

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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
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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


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JOIN my Newsletter: Good Education for Good Sex
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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. 

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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 

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

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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

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FOLLOW on Instagram @cindyscharkey
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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

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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
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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

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*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
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How Curiosity Fuels Desire27 Nov 202400:38:48

Research shows that greater curiosity outside the bedroom leads to higher sexual satisfaction. Sex therapist and author Dr. Emily Jamea joins me to talk about her book Anatomy of Desire: Five Secrets to Create Connection and Cultivate Passion. Learn how novelty works as a key component for fueling your desire. 

Learn more about Emily Jamea

More on these topics
Practicing Flow State Sex with Emily Jamea
Understanding Your Desire Style
Partner desire discrepancies
Want better sex? Ask yourself these questions
Fantasy and play in the bedroom with Dr. Carolin Klein

ORDER my Book: Permission for Pleasure: Tending Your Sexual Garden
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Vaginal Estrogen, Moisturizers, and Lube for Sex 13 Nov 202400:08:41

Learn the difference between vaginal estrogen, vaginal moisturizers, and lube for sex. This quickie episode outlines what each one is, when their use is appropriate and a few frequently asked questions about each. Bite size education for everyone, but especially for those in perimenopause and the menopause transition.

Visit our episode sponsor Uberlube and use code CINDY

More on this topic:
Guide to Lube
Lube Lube Lube
Perimenopause 101: Hormones and Symptoms
Perimenopause 101: Treatment Options
Tips for talking to a provider
Midlife, Menopause and Beyond
Sexual Reset for Midlife Women
You're Not Broken with Dr. Kelly Casperson

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