Ellen’s story as a Catholic woman

The origin story of Ellen’s podcast, Charting Towards Intimacy, and how she became a Catholic sexuality and intimacy coach

Why it’s important to reflect on who taught you about sex and how to bring Jesus into that space

Why sex should never hurt or be painful and how to find healing for both your body and your soul

Ellen’s lube recommendations (and why you should leave the coconut oil in the kitchen)

What to do if you rarely (or never!) orgasm

Practical tips to start talking with your spouse more about your sex life

The 10 minute unwind and how it can make a difference if you’re feeling too touched out for sex

What it’s like for Ellen to be in the field of sexology as a Catholic

How Ellen lives out the feminine genius in her everyday life as a Catholic wife

Listen to the Charting Toward Intimacy podcast

Follow Ellen on Instagram

Check out Vines in Full Bloom

Holy Sex by Dr. Gregory Popcack

The Orgasm Course for Catholic Women

Catholic Sex Positions Guide

Discussion questions:

Who taught you about sex when you were in second grade? Do you think this education was appropriate? How did what you learn back then impact what you think about sex now as a wife?

When you think about your sex life, do you get overwhelmed? What might be the root of your overwhelm—pain during sex? Lack of pleasure? What is one practical thing you can do after this podcast episode to find healing in your sex life with your spouse?

How often do you talk about sex with your husband? Would having a daily, five minute conversation with your spouse about sex be something you could make a part of your day?

What would you 10 minute unwind look like in an ideal world? Would it include Scripture, reading, journaling, sitting in the silence? Make a plan for what you’ll do the next time you sit down to unwind at the end of the day.

Sex is a form of communication. What are some things that you love about your spouse that you want to communicate to them both in and out of the bedroom?