Description: Join Dr. Frankie and Denise Rai in this insightful episode of "Love, Laughs, and Lessons" as they delve into the transformative concepts of self-alignment and personal empowerment with guest Jamie Lerner, co-author of "The Ever-Loving Essence of You." Explore the profound connection between self-knowledge and intimacy, and learn how personal alignment can reshape our experiences and relationships. Jamie offers a unique perspective on turning personal challenges into opportunities for growth and joy. This episode invites listeners to reflect on how well they know themselves by examining the nature of the relationships they attract. Don't miss these empowering discussions on creating a life filled with authentic connection and joy.

Bio & Links: Jamie Lerner, co-author of the book The Ever-Loving Essence of You, can put a fresh spin on just about anything that anyone throws her way. Her unique and masterful ability to re-frame even the most difficult situations is astounding. All of a sudden your biggest nightmare becomes your greatest pleasure as she lovingly helps you sift through the contrast and find that small opening of light that quickly becomes your greatest jumping off point for clarity. Unassuming, reassuring and seemingly without any sense of ego, Jamie Lerner is able to put everyone and everything at ease. Jamie Lerner is an asset to any corporate setting. She is easily able to untangle the issues at hand and move right along into helping facilitate a solution-based platform for creative, productive, good-feeling collaboration and change. Jamie Lerner can most often be seen working with adults, teens, children, and couples as well as with small groups. She never positions herself as the expert of anything and is always reminding you that it is you who knows best for yourself ALWAYS. Jamie is an Integrative Well-Being Therapist who resides in the Chicago area.

Website: http://www.jamie-lerner.com/

Media Page: https://jamie-lerner.com/media.html

After an amazing first episode, Bev Mitelman returns to Love, Laughs, and Lessons to continue our exploration of emotional connections and attachment styles. Join Dr. Frankie and Denise Rai as they dive deeper with Bev, a certified attachment theory practitioner, discussing the transformative power of self-awareness in relationships. This episode unpacks the complexities of modern dating and the essential work on oneself needed to cultivate healthier, more fulfilling partnerships. Don't miss this engaging follow-up to enrich your understanding of attachment and emotions!

Bio: As a child, Bev lived in a very unpredictable and chaotic environment where she never knew if she could rely on her parents to meet her emotional needs. This led her to absorb unhealthy relationship ideas based on what she was witnessing: she believed relationships were supposed to be unbalanced, uncertain, and overall chaotic. If you have an insecure attachment style, you probably relate to her experience, and navigating relationships can be particularly difficult for you. 

Prior to becoming a Certified Attachment Practitioner and founding Securely Loved, Bev was an Executive Leader, University Lecturer and published author, having obtained her Masters' Degree in 2006. She has dedicated her entire career (25+ years) working with adults in the realm of personal growth, education and professional development.

Website: www.securelyloved.com

Instagram: @securely_lovedVerified credentials by Good Therapy: https://www.goodtherapy.org/therapists/profile/bev-mitelman-counselor

Description: Join Dr. Frankie and Denise Rai for an enlightening episode of Love, Laughs & Lessons, featuring Bev Mitelman, founder of Securely Loved. Dive into the complexities of attachment styles and discover how early life interactions can influence our capacity for love and connection throughout adulthood. Bev shares both personal experiences and professional insights, highlighting how understanding our attachment styles can lead to transformative changes in our relationships. Whether you're looking to heal old wounds or foster deeper connections, this episode provides the tools for nurturing more secure, enriching relationships.

Bio: As a child, Bev lived in a very unpredictable and chaotic environment where she never knew if she could rely on her parents to meet her emotional needs. This led her to absorb unhealthy relationship ideas based on what she was witnessing: she believed relationships were supposed to be unbalanced, uncertain, and overall chaotic. If you have an insecure attachment style, you probably relate to her experience, and navigating relationships can be particularly difficult for you. Prior to becoming a Certified Attachment Practitioner and founding Securely Loved, Bev was an Executive Leader, University Lecturer and published author, having obtained her Masters' Degree in 2006. She has dedicated her entire career (25+ years) working with adults in the realm of personal growth, education and professional development.

Website: www.securelyloved.com

Instagram: @securely_loved

Verified credentials by Good Therapy: https://www.goodtherapy.org/therapists/profile/bev-mitelman-counselor

Episode Description:
Dr. Frankie and Denise Rai delve into the profound intersection of sex and trauma. They're joined by Dr. Michelle Maidenberg, who shares her extensive experience and insights on handling emotional trauma and its impact on our sex lives. Dr. Maidenberg, a therapist and author, discusses how our past traumas, whether minor or significant, shape our intimate relationships and self-perception. This episode is not just about the challenges but also about empowering listeners to navigate their feelings and find fulfillment, emphasizing mindfulness, values, and healing. It's a must-listen for anyone looking to overcome personal barriers and enhance intimacy in their life.
Guest Bio:
Michelle P. Maidenberg, Ph.D., MPH, LCSW-R, leads a multifaceted career in the field of mental health and wellness. Operating a private practice in Harrison, NY, she expertly combines therapeutic techniques with mindfulness to enhance her clients' well-being. As the co-founder and clinical director of "Thru My Eyes," Dr. Maidenberg directs a nonprofit organization that provides free, clinically-guided videotaping for individuals with chronic illnesses, enabling them to leave lasting legacies for their loved ones.
In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Maidenberg is an adjunct faculty member at New York University, where she teaches a graduate course on mindfulness practices. She also actively contributes to the mental health community as a member of the American Red Cross Crisis Team and serves on the Board of Directors for the Westchester Trauma Network in Westchester, NY.
A prolific author, Dr. Maidenberg has written several award-winning books, including "Free Your Child From Overeating: 53 Mind-Body Strategies For Lifelong Health" and "Ace Your Life: Unleash Your Best Self and Live the Life You Want," available at major retailers. Her dedication to spreading knowledge extends to her engaging TED Talk titled "Circumventing Emotional Avoidance" and her regular contributions as a blogger for Psychology Today. Every Thursday, she shares new guided meditations on her YouTube channel, further underscoring her commitment to promoting mental health and self-empowerment.
Awards for 'Ace Your Life':
Book Excellence Award Winner for Psychology
The Eric Hoffer Gold Award for Excellence in Independent Publishing
Silver Award Winner at the Nonfiction Author’s Association – Nonfiction Book Awards
Colorado Independent Publishers Association (CIPA EVVY) Silver Award Winner in Self-Help

Links: Michelle Maidenberg |Dr. Michelle Maidenberg | Facebook Log in to X / X Michelle Maidenberg, Ph.D., MPH, LCSW-R, CGP - Thru My Eyes Foundation | LinkedIn Dr. Michelle Maidenberg - YouTube

Join us on Love, Laughs, and Lessons for an inspiring episode with Eri Kardos, whose transformative journey in love and relationships is featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul. As she prepares to take the TEDx stage in 2025, Eri shares the captivating story of building a life and love filled with passion alongside her husband. Founding Relearn Love, LLC, Eri draws on a unique blend of scientific and somatic-based methods to teach others how to reignite and reinvent their relationships. This episode explores how Eri and her husband have navigated their intercultural marriage, turning challenges into opportunities for growth and deeper connection. Tune in to learn how you too can "Relearn Love" and cultivate a life of passion and fulfillment.

Bio:

Eri Kardos is a transformative coach and the founder of Relearn Love, LLC, specializing in enhancing the personal lives of leaders to boost their professional effectiveness. With a unique approach that bridges the gap between the boardroom and the bedroom, Eri's methods are designed to ignite new and existing passions, deepen intimacy, and dissolve conflict patterns. Her work empowers clients to transform their love lives into powerful tools for career and community impact. Eri's insights are sought after globally, making her a favorite speaker at major corporations like Amazon and Microsoft. She has worked with a diverse client base across six continents, including top tech executives and Hollywood celebrities, as well as individuals committed to living extraordinary lives. Eri is also the best-selling author of Relationship Agreements: A Simple and Effective Guide for Strengthening Communication, Reducing Conflict, and Increasing Intimacy to Design Your Ideal Relationship. A former leadership development professional at Amazon.com, Eri holds an MBA in Global Leadership from the world’s leading international business school. Her expertise is regularly enlisted by Fortune 500 companies to help leaders enhance their influence by fostering better connections at home.

Links:

www.relearnlove.com

Relationship Coach | ERI KARDOS (@coacherikardos) • Instagram photos and videos

Welcome to another engaging episode of "Love, Laughs, and Lessons," where we delve into the complexities of relationships and the self, fostering a space for honest dialogue and personal growth. In this episode, hosts Dr. Frankie Bashan and Denise Rai invite April Hirschman, a multifaceted sex and relationship coach, to explore the nuances of sexual communication within relationships. April brings a refreshing perspective on integrating sexuality with everyday life, emphasizing the importance of ongoing conversations about desires and boundaries. Whether you're single, dating, or deep into a relationship, this episode offers valuable insights into maintaining sexual connectivity and enhancing intimacy through open dialogue and mutual understanding.

Bio: April Hirschman is a seasoned sex and relationship coach, author, and advocate for vibrant sexual expression. She is a San Francisco-born queer author of the self-help book "Best Breakup Ever!" and her new memoir, "Desire Makes Me Brave" (published by Heliotrope), which was released in March 2024. April is also the host of the "Heart Centerfold Memoir" podcast. Her background as a belly dancer, filmmaker, and yoga instructor enriches her coaching, providing a holistic approach to intimacy. April’s work is dedicated to creating safe spaces for sexual exploration and advocating for personal empowerment through self-acceptance and pleasure.

For more information, visit her website at Aprilhirschman.com.

Links: 

https://www.aprilhirschman.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/april-hirschman-b33540177/

Description: 

In this episode of "Love, Laughs, and Lessons," Dr. Frankie and Denise Rai delve into the emotional landscape of dating after significant life changes like losing a spouse or enduring a difficult divorce. Join us as we explore the heart of resilience and rejuvenation in love with our guest, Deb Dutcher, a Boomer dating coach and best-selling author. Deb shares insightful strategies and personal anecdotes to help the over-50 crowd reignite their love lives with confidence and fun. This episode offers practical advice on creating standout dating profiles, maintaining standards, and keeping the sparks flying in mature relationships. Learn how to navigate the complexities of online dating, safeguard against scammers, and embrace a fulfilling love life that defies ageist stereotypes. Whether you're rebounding from a divorce or seeking companionship after the loss of a spouse, this episode promises to give you "One Last Hot Love Affair"

Guest Bio - Deb Dutcher:
Deb Dutcher, known affectionately as the 'Boomer dating coach,' is a motivational speaker, best-selling author, and a beacon of hope for those aged 50 and above looking to navigate the world of online dating. With a dynamic career spanning over 20 years in high-tech management followed by two decades as a health and lifestyle coach, Deb seamlessly blends her professional acumen with personal experiences to empower singles seeking meaningful connections. Her book, "Sexy, Lean, and Strong After 50," has been a source of inspiration for many, and she has been named a top 10 senior dating expert by datingadvice.com in 2024. Through her program, "Finding Mr. or Mrs. Adorable," Deb provides actionable insights into crafting engaging profiles, maintaining high standards in potential partners, and rekindling the flames of passion and intimacy in new relationships.

Links:

FindingMrAdorable.com

Helping you release your Ms. Adorable Butterfly to find your Mr. Adorable!

Text: 650-400-2612

Description: 

In this engaging episode of Love, Laughs, and Lessons, Dr. Frankie and Denise welcome licensed clinical social worker and certified sex therapist, Julia Simone Fogelson, to unpack the complexities of desire in relationships. They explore the differences between spontaneous and responsive desire, highlighting how each influences intimacy and connection. The discussion addresses the societal pressures that often lead to shame surrounding sexual preferences and emphasizes the importance of clear communication in fostering deeper bonds.

Julia shares practical tools for listeners to identify their own desires and express them effectively to their partners, empowering individuals to embrace pleasure in all its forms. With insights applicable to a range of relationships—romantic, platonic, or familial—this episode invites you to rethink intimacy and prioritize mutual pleasure. Join us for a candid conversation that encourages growth, understanding, and a fresh perspective on what it means to connect with others.

Bio: 

Julia Simone Fogelson, LCSW, CST (she/her) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist. She has a psychotherapy practice in Oakland, California where she serves adults, teens, and relationships. She specializes in providing sex therapy and gender-affirming care. She also teaches human sexuality as an adjunct professor at the California Institute of Integral Studies.

In this empowering episode of "Love, Laughs, and Lessons," Dr. Frankie and Denise Rai welcome Claire Perelman, a dynamic sex therapist and licensed clinical social worker. Together, they dive deep into the nuances of sexual communication and overcoming shame. Claire shares her expert insights on erection challenges, the unnecessary stigmatization of sexual dysfunctions, and the beauty of expanding our sexual vocabulary. The trio discusses how to navigate libido differences and the importance of non-penetrative pleasures, aiming to destigmatize and normalize discussions around sexuality. This episode is a call to broaden our understanding of intimacy and enhance our relationships through open and honest dialogue.

Bio: Claire Perelman is a Queer, Jewish sex therapist living and working in the Bay Area. Passionate about creating accessible sex education, she normalizes play, pleasure, and sexuality through her work with clients and across her social media channels as @sexclarified. With a fervent dedication to challenging societal norms and advocating for comprehensive understanding of sexual health and happiness, Claire leverages her extensive expertise to explore themes such as kink, polyamory, and pleasure without penetration. Her commitment extends into the community, organizing and advocating for social justice and sustainable initiatives. Claire offers individual and couples counseling, adeptly navigating the complexities of sexual relationships and identity, both in her offices in San Francisco and Oakland, and via Zoom across California.

Connect with Claire on:

Instagram - www.instagram.com/sexclarified

TikTok - www.tiktok.com/@sexclarified

Her Website – www.sexclarified.com

Join us for a captivating episode of "Love, Laughs, and Lessons," where we delve into the intricate world of Shibari with Anastasia, the visionary behind Voodoo Ropes. In this installment of our "Let's Talk About Sex" series, Anastasia reveals how her academic background in Japanese studies led her to discover Shibari, transforming it into a tool for deep personal connection and relaxation. Our conversation explores how Shibari transcends its roots in BDSM to become a therapeutic art form, focusing on non-sexual applications that foster self-awareness and tranquility. Anastasia also shares insights from her unique Shibari retreats in the Mexican jungle, where artistry meets meditation in a culturally immersive environment. This episode offers a fresh perspective on how traditional practices can evolve into modern healing arts.

Bio: Anastasia is a distinguished Shibari artist and the creative force behind Voodoo Ropes. With over seven years of experience, she has made a name for herself internationally through her teaching, exhibitions, and performances. Anastasia views rope as a powerful medium for communication, self-expression, and meditation. She organizes immersive retreats in the Mexican jungle, which combine Shibari with the vibrant local culture and spiritual ceremonies, attracting a global following. Based in Playa del Carmen, she is dedicated to fostering a thriving, open-minded community that explores the artistic and non-sexual side of Shibari. Anastasia's approach likens Shibari to yoga, aiming to open new paths for empowerment and enrichment in her participants' lives.

The New Perception of Shibari | Documentary (youtube.com)
IG: Anastasia Suazo (@voudou.ropes) • Instagram photos and videos

Website: About | Voudou Ropes