Lexi shares her journey with vaginismus, hymenectomy, pelvic floor therapy, and intimacy struggles. A raw story of sexual health, hookup culture, and healing.

Sexual health struggles are more common than most people realize — but rarely talked about openly. In this powerful episode of 7 On Sundays, hosts Stephanie Boye (sex educator) and Dr. Chez Leeby (licensed marriage and family therapist) sit down with Lexi, who bravely shares her personal journey through hymenectomy, pelvic floor therapy, and the emotional challenges of intimacy.

Lexi opens up about the physical pain, shame, and societal pressures she faced — and how she learned to advocate for her well-being and embrace vulnerability in relationships. Together, the conversation explores how hookup culture, generational trauma, and stigma around sexual health impact young women, and how healing and empowerment are possible.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• Hymenectomy and pelvic floor therapy explained

• Overcoming pain during intimacy and tampon use

• The role of societal pressure and hookup culture in shaping self-image

• Healing the body-mind connection through therapy and support

• Tools for self-advocacy, communication, and empowerment

• Vulnerability and communication: Building trust in relationships.

This is an essential listen for anyone navigating intimacy challenges, sexual health struggles, or the journey toward reclaiming their voice.

Resources Mentioned

- **Pelvic Floor Therapy**: Learn more about pelvic health and therapy options [here](https://pelvicpain.org).

- **Psychology Today Therapist Directory**: Find a supportive therapist in your area: [Psychology Today](https://www.psychologytoday.com/).

• **"It’s Not a Trauma Olympics"** by Brené Brown: A guide to understanding and validating personal trauma.
•  

Timestamps

00:00 Trigger Warning

00:17 Coming Up In This Episode

00:51 Welcome to 7 on Sundays

01:29 Lexi's Early Struggles with Tampons

02:39 Discovering the Hymenectomy

04:08 Navigating Sexual Experiences

16:57 Pelvic Floor Therapy

20:43 Exploring Transgenerational Trauma

22:29 Exploring Historical Trauma and Female Bonding

24:23 Navigating Hookup Culture in College

25:01 Personal Reflections on Hookup Culture

Connect with Us

- **Website**: [7onSundays.com](https://7onsundays.com) 

- **Instagram**: [@7onSundays](https://instagram.com/7onSundays) 

- **Twitter**: [@7onSundaysPod](https://twitter.com/7onSundaysPod) 

- **Email**: [email protected] 

26:02 Challenges in Current Relationships

28:51 Communicating Vulnerability in Relationships

32:03 Mindset and Physical Tools for Pain-Free Intimacy

40:37 Wrap Up

42:03 The Importance of Validation and Finding the Right Physician

44:05 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Levi shares how hustle culture impacts mental health, balance, and purpose. A candid look at Gen Z, achievement pressure, and authentic living.

Hustle culture is everywhere — from college campuses to social media — but what is it really costing young people? In this episode of 7 On Sundays, hosts Dr. Chez Leeby and Stephanie Boye sit down with Levi, a 20-year-old college student, who shares his personal journey navigating the overwhelming pressures of achievement, success, and societal expectations.

Levi opens up about the toll hustle culture takes on mental health, relationships, and identity, and how he’s learning to redefine success on his own terms. The conversation explores the emotional, psychological, and even spiritual dimensions of hustle culture — and what it means to step back, reclaim balance, and pursue authentic purpose.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• The hidden costs of hustle culture on Gen Z mental health

• How societal and family expectations drive burnout

• Finding identity and balance beyond productivity

• Tools for navigating stress, authenticity, and purpose

This raw, hopeful conversation is a must-listen for students, parents, and anyone seeking to break free from toxic hustle culture and redefine what truly matters.

●      Chi Alpha Campus Ministries: chialpha.com A national organization providing spiritual and community support for college students.

●      The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer: A book exploring the dangers of hurry culture and offering insights on slowing down to live a meaningful life.

●      Website: 7onsundays.com

●      Instagram: @7onSundaysPodcast

●      Facebook: 7 on Sundays Podcast

●      Email: [email protected]

Betsy Stephenson shares her son Charlie’s story, hidden signs of depression in young men, and the grief, stigma, and hope after suicide loss.

Depression, suicide loss, and parental grief are at the heart of this powerful continuation of our conversation with Betsy Stephenson, author of Blackbird: A Mother’s Reflections on Grief, Loss, and Life After Suicide. In Part 2 of this 7 On Sundays™ series, hosts Dr. Chez Leeby and Stephanie Boye dive deeper into the misunderstood signs of depression — particularly in young men — through the story of Betsy’s late son, Charlie.

This episode explores:

• The hidden signs of depression in young men (irritability, withdrawal, loss of appetite, sleep changes)

• Why depression itself is “enough” and requires no other justification for concern

• Parenting, grief, and writing through active loss

• The role of community, conversations, and early intervention in mental health

• Breaking stigma around suicide, depression, and the right to feel pain

• The urgent need for mental health support in schools, fraternities, and colleges

Betsy’s reflections, paired with Dr. Chez’s insights, offer a compassionate, raw, and necessary discussion on how we can better support young people, parents, and communities impacted by depression and suicide loss.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and Trigger Warning

00:19 Interview with Betsy Stephenson Begins

00:54 Understanding Depression in Males

02:57 Personal Experiences with Depression

07:17 Coping Mechanisms and Therapy

08:42 The Importance of Open Conversations

13:22 Early Signs and Seeking Help

23:08 The Impact of Transitions and Modern Pressures

27:05 The Danger of Comparison and Grief

28:12 The Importance of Validating All Feelings

28:42 The Pressure of Perfection

30:55 Betsy's Unique Approach to Writing About Grief

37:38 The Power of Checking on Friends

44:55 Addressing Depression and Mental Health in Fraternities

49:35 Recognizing the Signs of Depression

52:32 Final Thoughts and Resources

Resources Mentioned:

- *Blackbird* by Betsey Stevenson — [Buy the book](https://www.betseystevenson.com) 

  A memoir about grief and healing written in real-time by a mother who lost her son to suicide.

- National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline — [Call or text 988](https://988lifeline.org) 

  Free, confidential support available 24/7.

If this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who needs to hear it. Subscribe and leave a review to help more listeners find these crucial conversations. And most importantly: check on your friends—it matters more than you know.

Betsy Stephenson shares her journey of child loss, grief, and healing after suicide. A heartfelt story of resilience, hope, and love after tragedy.

Suicide loss, grief, and healing after the death of a child are among the most painful human experiences. In this episode of 7 On Sundays™, hosts Dr. Chez Leeby and Stephanie Boye sit down with writer and advocate Betsy Stephenson, author of Blackbird: A Mother’s Reflections on Grief, Loss, and Life After Suicide.

With raw honesty and strength, Betsy shares her heartbreaking journey of losing her child to suicide and the ongoing process of navigating life, love, and resilience in the aftermath. This conversation explores:

• The realities of suicide bereavement and child loss

• How grief changes family, identity, and relationships

• The role of advocacy, writing, and truth-telling in healing

• Finding light and resilience after unimaginable loss

This is Part 1 of a two-part series offering compassion, understanding, and hope for anyone affected by suicide. Whether you are a grieving parent, family member, or friend, Betsy’s story reminds us that while grief never ends, healing is possible.

Topics Discussed

- Betsy’s experience of losing her son to suicide

- Writing as a tool for healing and reflection

- The emotional process behind *Blackbird*

- Navigating grief and honoring one’s emotions

- The role of community and support in healing

- Finding meaning and connection through storytelling

- Encouraging open conversations around mental health and suicide

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and Trigger Warning

00:17 A Parent's Grief: Losing Charlie

01:02 Interview with Betsy Stephenson

01:56 Charlie's Story and the Impact of Suicide

04:05 The Importance of Honesty in Grief

07:53 Charlie's Hidden Struggles

10:39 A Mother's Efforts to Help

21:57 Charlie's Final Days

27:09 The Reality of Suicide for College Students

30:21 The Importance of Prevention and Support Systems

33:24 The Role of Diagnosis and Professional Help

46:13 The Impact of Toxic Masculinity on Mental Health

51:50 Final Thoughts and Resources

Resources Mentioned

- Blackbird: A Mother's Reflections on Grief, Loss, and Life After Suicide: https://www.amazon.com/Blackbird-Mothers-Reflections-Grief-Suicide/dp/1964721296 

  A memoir by Betsey Stevenson offering an intimate and powerful reflection on her journey through grief and healing.

- American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)  https://afsp.org  

  A national organization dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide.

Parker continues her story of pornography addiction, shame, and recovery. A candid look at healing, self-esteem, and reclaiming self-worth.

Pornography addiction, shame, and conservative culture take center stage in Part 2 of Parker’s powerful story on 7 On Sundays. Hosts Stephanie Boye and Dr. Chez Leeby continue their candid conversation with Parker, who bravely explores how porn shaped her mental health, relationships, and sense of self.

In this episode, Parker reflects on her sheltered upbringing, the destructive influence of pornography on self-esteem, and the long road to self-awareness and healing. Her story highlights the emotional and relational cost of growing up with secrecy and shame — and the hope that comes with vulnerability and recovery.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• The psychological toll of porn addiction and secrecy

• How conservative environments shape sexuality and shame

• Rebuilding confidence and self-worth after addiction

• Strategies for healing and reclaiming healthy intimacy

This raw and inspiring conversation offers hope for anyone struggling with pornography, shame, or toxic cultural messages about sexuality.

●      Digital Intentionalism 7 On Sundays Podcast with Harrison Haynes (episode Discusses strategies to reduce digital distractions and build healthier habits.

●      Books on Body Awareness and Cycle TrackingExplore resources that helped Parker understand her menstrual cycle and its impact on her mental health.

●      988 Suicide and Crisis LifelineA free, confidential resource for anyone in crisis.

●      Website: 7onsundays.comFind past episodes, resources, and show updates.

●      Social Media:Instagram: @7OnSundaysFacebook: 7 On SundaysTwitter: @7OnSundays

In this powerful second part of our interview with Parker, we delve deep into the impacts of growing up in a sheltered, conservative environment and the formative influence of pornography on mental health, self-esteem, and relationships. Parker courageously shares her journey of self-awareness and healing, offering listeners valuable insights into overcoming shame, understanding sexuality, and rebuilding confidence.

●      Digital Intentionalism Podcast with Harrison HaynesDiscusses strategies to reduce digital distractions and build healthier habits.

●      Books on Body Awareness and Cycle TrackingExplore resources that helped Parker understand her menstrual cycle and its impact on her mental health.

●      988 Suicide and Crisis LifelineA free, confidential resource for anyone in crisis.

●      Website: 7onsundays.comFind past episodes, resources, and show updates.

●      Social Media:Instagram: @7OnSundaysFacebook: 7 On SundaysTwitter: @7OnSundays

Pornography addiction, shame, and conservative cultural expectations collide in this powerful episode of 7 On Sundays. Hosts Stephanie Boye and Dr. Chez Leeby sit down with Parker, who bravely shares her journey of growing up in a conservative household while secretly struggling with porn addiction and questions of self-worth.

Parker reflects on how early media exposure, rigid values, and silence around sexuality shaped her sexual development and emotional health. From the shame of hidden habits to the courage of speaking out, Parker’s story sheds light on the struggles many young people face but rarely talk about.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• How conservative teachings and shame impact sexual development

• The cycle of pornography addiction and self-esteem struggles

• The importance of vulnerability and conversation in healing

• Hope for anyone navigating secrecy, porn, and relationships

This episode is a must-listen for parents, educators, and young adults seeking honest dialogue about porn addiction, shame, and the journey to reclaim self-worth.

RESOURCES:

The Porn Myth:  Wendy and Larry Maltz

00:00 Trigger Warning

00:17 Coming Up In This Episode

01:15 Welcome to 7 On Sundays

02:02 Early Exposure to Media

03:16 Discovering Pornography

04:33 Struggles with Guilt and Shame

05:15 First Orgasm Experience

08:22 Confession to Mom

15:18 Impact on Self-Esteem

29:04 First Relationship and Parental Disapproval

31:55 Ongoing Struggles with Pornography

34:00 Masturbation Without Pornography

36:03 The Impact of Pornography on the Mind

36:26 Debunking Myths About Male and Female Arousal

37:53 Personal Experiences and Emotional Numbness

39:47 Struggles with Confidence and Performance

42:41 Therapy and the Path to Recovery

43:31 The Role of Communication in Relationships

53:07 Understanding Sexual Pleasure and Misconceptions

56:17 Navigating Relationships and Self-Worth

01:04:07 Concluding Thoughts and Future Conversations

01:05:48 Wrap Up

●      Website: [Insert Website Link]

●      Instagram: [Insert Instagram Handle]

●      Twitter: [Insert Twitter Handle]

●      Subscribe: [Insert Podcast Subscription Link]

Haley shares her story of abuse, purity culture, and religious trauma—and how she reclaimed her voice, boundaries, and self-worth through healing.

What happens when purity culture, restrictive religious teachings, and toxic relationships collide? In this powerful episode of 7 On Sundays, hosts Dr. Chez Leeby and Stephanie Boye sit down with Haley, a courageous young woman who bravely shares her deeply personal journey of growing up in a fundamentalist environment, enduring abuse, and ultimately reclaiming her voice and self-worth.

Haley’s story sheds light on how purity culture abuse stories and religious trauma often leave young people unprepared for healthy, consensual relationships. With raw honesty, she describes how emotional coercion in relationships, manipulation disguised as love, and toxic family dynamics eroded her confidence and boundaries. Her words resonate deeply, naming the unspoken shame, isolation, and confusion that so many survivors carry.

Through therapy, supportive friendships, and mentors, Haley began to recognize abuse for what it was, reclaim her boundaries, and rebuild her sense of identity. This candid conversation highlights the intersection of religious trauma, consent, gender roles, and abuse recovery while offering practical tools and hope for healing.

Listeners will learn:

• The damaging effects of purity culture and rigid gender roles.

• How emotional coercion and gaslighting distort consent.

• Why therapy and support systems are essential for recovery.

• Steps to reclaim self-worth, voice, and empowerment after abuse.

Haley’s bravery makes her not just a survivor, but a guide for others navigating similar struggles. Her story is a powerful reminder that healing is possible, boundaries matter, and you are not alone.

• 7 on Sundays Website 7onsundays.comAn open forum for discussing relationships, mental health, and more.

988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Call 988 A free, confidential support line for mental health crises and suicidal thoughts.

Sophie shares her raw story of OnlyFans, desire, manipulation & self-worth—and how she reclaimed her voice and identity.

What really happens behind the screen on OnlyFans? In this powerful episode of 7 On Sundays, hosts Stephanie Boye and Dr. Chez Leeby sit down with Sophie, who courageously shares her personal journey with OnlyFans, desire, and self-worth.

Sophie opens up about how a trusted relationship pulled her into creating content—and how quickly the promise of validation shifted into manipulation, emotional struggle, and self-doubt. Together, the conversation explores the hidden costs of OnlyFans, the role of codependency in relationships, and the difficult but empowering process of reclaiming your voice.

If you’ve ever wondered about the realities of OnlyFans, or if you’ve struggled with self-worth and identity in relationships, this episode is an eye-opening and deeply relatable listen.

• Sophie's Journey with OnlyFans: How a friend’s influence led her into OnlyFans and the unexpected impact it had on her self-image.

• Understanding Manipulation and Control: Identifying subtle signs of coercion and the toll they take on one’s sense of autonomy.

• The Fine Line Between Empowerment and Exploitation: How society markets empowerment and how it can sometimes be used as a tool for manipulation.

• Building Self-Worth: Insights into developing internal validation and boundaries, especially in relationships.

• Advice for Young Listeners: Recognizing the importance of gut instincts, self-reflection, and prioritizing personal values.

• Codependent No More by Melody Beattie A foundational book on understanding codependency and building healthier relationships.

• Codependents Anonymous (CoDA) Website linkA free support group for those navigating codependent relationships.

• National Human Trafficking Hotline Website linkA resource for anyone needing information or support related to trafficking.

Stay updated with 7 on Sundays:

• Website: www.7onSundays.com

• Instagram: @7onSundays

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 Introduction and Trigger Warning

01:02 Stephanie and Dr. Chez Introduce the Episode

02:38 Sophie's Story Begins

03:06 The Manipulative Relationship with Adam

05:00 The Emotional Toll of OnlyFans

09:11 Reflecting on the Experience

11:53 Understanding the Dynamics of Manipulation

13:08 The Realization of Trafficking

23:18 Advice for Young Girls

35:39 Reflecting on a Defeating Experience

35:53 Understanding Trauma Bonds

36:53 People Pleasing and Validation

40:31 Empowerment vs. Exploitation

42:01 The Reality of OnlyFans

48:16 Trusting Your Gut Instincts

55:17 Concluding Thoughts and Advice

Two mothers share their journey through child loss, grief & healing—and how Helping Parents Heal gave them hope and purpose.

Child loss is the most devastating pain a parent can face—but healing and hope are possible. In this deeply moving episode of 7 On Sundays, hosts Stephanie Boye and Dr. Chez Leeby sit down with Laura and Beverly, two courageous mothers who share their stories of losing children, navigating grief, and finding meaning after unimaginable tragedy.

Through candid conversations about spirituality, resilience, and connection with loved ones in spirit, Laura and Beverly reveal how they discovered purpose and support in Helping Parents Heal, a global community for grieving families.

This episode offers comfort, inspiration, and hope for parents, families, and anyone impacted by loss. It’s a powerful reminder that healing is possible—even in the face of profound grief.

RESOURCES

Community Recommendations

Helping Parents Heal  

An organization dedicated to helping parents who have experienced the loss of a child find peace and connection.

Website: [helpingparentsheal.org](http://helpingparentsheal.org)  

Book Recommendations

  "Dying to Be Me"  by Anita Moorjani  

  "Walking in the Garden of Souls"  by George Anderson  

  "When Bad Things Happen to Good People"  by Harold Kushner

Podcast Recommendation  

Next Level Soul – A podcast exploring spiritual topics, including near-death experiences and afterlife connections.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 Introduction and Trigger Warning

00:17 Opening Thoughts on Life and Loss

00:55 Host and Guest Introductions

03:22 Laura's Story of Loss and Healing

08:57 Connecting with Loved Ones in Spirit

11:27 The Power of Meditation and Signs

16:14 Navigating Grief and Finding Purpose

22:16 Embracing Emotions and Support

42:01 The Power of Presence in Therapy

43:03 Soul Agreements and Spiritual Realizations

43:41 Stories of Spiritual Lessons

48:23 The Healing Journey and Community Support

55:08 Resources for Healing and Connection

01:02:46 Personal Reflections and Final Thoughts