Let’s Talk About Sex (Without the Shame)


Your Connection Guide

This Week in the Connection Codes

Reader,

This week’s podcast is a BIG one.


Because I got to sit down with someone I’ve admired for years—Vanessa Marin, licensed sex therapist, New York Times bestselling author, and co-host of the hit podcast Pillow Talks.

I have admired her boldness in sharing on a topic that has long been considered "taboo." She is busting the box wide open and leaves no topic off limits.

She and her husband, Xander, have been showing up on Instagram for years with hilariously relatable videos about sex and relationships—and they’ve helped me break out of so many of the boxes I didn’t even know I was in.

So to have her join us on the podcast? What a gift.

We talk about:
🍽️ Creating a “sex menu” to make intimacy more approachable and playful
🧠 How Vanessa reframed her entire view of sex after growing up in a sex-negative environment
💬 What it actually looks like to prioritize sex in a busy, messy, real-life relationship
❤️‍🔥 And how to use sex—not just for release—but for genuine connection

This conversation is fun, full of ah-ha moments, and loaded with sparks of inspiration.

But more than anything, it’s a shame-free zone.

Nobody’s here to judge your story.
Nobody’s here to tell you what you should be doing.

We’re here to inspire you to process the fear and shame that might be holding you back—so you can move toward the joy, pleasure, and connection you were always meant for.... in the way that feels safe and fun for YOU.

🎧 Click here to listen on YouTube!

video preview

Or click on your favorite place to listen:


Vanessa & Xander Marin

Follow Vanessa (and Xander) on Instagram @vanessaandxander and tune in to their podcast, Pillow Talks, for totally do-able sex tips, practical relationship advice, hilarious and honest stories of what really goes on behind closed bedroom doors, and so much more.

💡 Here’s something to reflect on:

What messages were you taught about sex?
What do you wish someone had said instead?
And what would change in your relationship—or in yourself—if you felt safe, seen, and unashamed in this area of your life?

This episode is your invitation to start exploring. 💡

You don’t need to arrive with confidence.
You just need a little curiosity.

Let's do this.

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Disclaimer: This podcast and newsletter are co-created with a marriage and family therapist, but we are not your therapist. The information shared here is for educational and informational purposes only. If you’re experiencing overwhelming emotions or need personalized support, we encourage you to seek help from a licensed therapist or counselor or a coach. Remember, your emotions matter, and asking for help is a superpower.

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