In this special episode of Sex After, Amy switches seats and becomes the guest on her own show as therapist Sasha Hawkes interviews her about her breast cancer journey. Amy reflects on the news that changed everything, the decision to have a double mastectomy, the reconstruction process, and the complicated emotions surrounding body image, femininity, and identity.

Sasha guides Amy through the rarely discussed “after”: the wave of emotions that hits once treatment is over, the anxiety of follow-up appointments, and the surprising moments of humor and humanity that helped her heal. Amy also talks candidly about dating and sex post-surgery, the sensitivity (and insensitivity) of others, and how her diagnosis brought her closer to the memory of her mother, who also died of breast cancer. This warm, honest conversation offers comfort, connection, and insight for anyone navigating cancer, survivorship, grief, or loving someone who is.

For more information, please follow us @SexAfterPodcast or @IronSkirtProductions

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Amy and Sasha come together for a special Thanksgiving episode to talk about why the holidays can be so emotionally complicated. Amy shares honestly about grieving her parents and how social media can make it seem like everyone else has the perfect family and celebration.

Sasha talks about what is bringing people in for therapy right now—obligation, family dynamics, pressure for a “perfect” day—and offers practical tools: setting boundaries (including not going if it’s not healthy for you), taking breathing breaks when you’re triggered, practicing radical self-care if you’re alone, and building a simple, daily gratitude practice.

Together, they explore how we can hold grief and gratitude at the same time, be kinder to ourselves, and create a little more space and compassion in our bodies—and in our holidays.

To learn more or contact us you can email us at [email protected]

For all Sex After updates and news please follow us on @Sexafterpodcast and/or @ironskirtproductions

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In this “After” episode, Amy and Sasha revisit their powerful conversation with Lisa Phillips, a survivor of Jeffrey Epstein’s abuse, whose story has since become highly public. They talk about how grooming really works, why shame is so common for survivors, and the complicated mourning that can follow leaving an abuser. Sasha offers a therapist’s perspective on trauma in the body, emotional dysregulation, coping mechanisms like alcohol, and the importance of telling our stories so they don’t destroy us in silence. Amy shares how deeply the interview affected her, especially as they explore what it means to truly listen, hold space, and bear witness to another person’s pain. Together, they remind listeners that they are not alone, that help and resources are available, and that healing begins when we speak the truth out loud.

The information provided in this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice. Although Sasha Hawkes is a licensed marriage and family therapist, she is not providing therapy, counseling, or professional services through this podcast. No therapist–client relationship is created or implied by listening. If you are seeking mental health support, diagnosis, or treatment, please consult a qualified professional. If you are in crisis or need assistance related to sexual violence or trauma, please refer to the resources listed below or contact your local emergency services.

RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)

U.S.-based crisis hotline and online chat (24/7) for survivors of sexual violence.

Website: rainn.org

National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC)

U.S. national resource hub for survivors, families, professionals. Directory of local programs. (NSVRC)

Website: nsvrc.org

LGBT National Help Center (U.S.)

Peer-support hotlines and chat services for LGBTQIA+ individuals, including those experiencing sexual violence. (LGBT National Help Center)

Website: lgbthotline.org

1in6 (Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse/Assault)

Supports men and boys who’ve experienced sexual abuse/assault — U.S.-based. (Wikipedia)

Website: 1in6.org

Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) – U.S. Dept. of Justice

Comprehensive list of state/territory sexual assault coalitions and support organizations in the U.S. (Department of Justice)

Website: justice.gov/ovw/resources-for-survivors

Please visit us@SexAfterPodcast or@Ironskirtproductions

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In this episode, Lisa Phillips shares her deeply personal journey of healing and empowerment following her experiences with Jeffrey Epstein. Through a grounded and thoughtful conversation with host, Amy Marcs, Lisa reflects on the emotional realities of living with trauma, the long process of learning to trust herself again, and the vital role of community in the healing process. She speaks about reclaiming her voice, finding ways to live with honesty and self-compassion, and using her story to support others who may be navigating similar experiences.

Lisa’s story is not defined by what happened to her — it is defined by her resilience, her clarity, and her commitment to helping others feel less alone.

This episode includes discussion of sexual assault and trauma, including references to abuse perpetrated by Jeffrey Epstein. These topics may be distressing or triggering for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.

If you need support, please consider reaching out to one of the resources below.

RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)

24/7 confidential support

• Call: 1-800-656-4673

• Online chat: https://www.rainn.org

Crisis Text Line

Text HOME to 741741 for immediate support.

Pandora’s Project

Peer support community for survivors of sexual violence

• https://pandys.org

The Joyful Heart Foundation

Trauma-informed advocacy and healing resources

• https://www.joyfulheartfoundation.org

Find a Trauma-Informed Therapist

• https://www.psychologytoday.com (search: “trauma therapy,” “EMDR,” or “somatic therapy”)

• EMDR Therapist Directory: https://www.emdria.org

If you or someone you love has experienced sexual violence, you are not alone.

Your story is valid.

Your healing is yours.

You are deserving of support and care.

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In Part 2 of Sex After Breast Cancer with Model, Hope facilitator and Cancer disruptor, Christine Handy, Amy continues her conversation and is joined this time by award-winning director Ziad Hamzeh. Ziad brings his film Hello Beautiful—a moving portrayal of Christine’s breast cancer journey—into the spotlight, opening up a heartfelt discussion about vulnerability, self-advocacy, and the healing power of storytelling. Hello Beautiful just received the Golden Palm Award for Best Picture at the 25th Annual Beverly Hills Film Festival.

Together, we explore how authenticity in art can validate pain, connect us through shared experience, and help dismantle the isolation often felt after a cancer diagnosis. Ziad dives into why it's vital to portray the emotional rawness of health struggles, while Christine reflects on the deeper truths and resilience revealed through her own journey.

This episode is a testament to the strength that emerges when we own our stories—and how creative expression can be a lifeline. Don’t miss this emotional, inspiring continuation of our conversation.

You can find Amy on Instagram @Amymarcs or www.amymarcs.com

You can find the show @Sexafterpodcast

Sex After is produced by @Ironskirtproductions

You can find more about Christine Handy @Christinehandy1

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This week Amy speaks with Christine Handy, a successful model whose life took a dramatic turn following a breast cancer diagnosis. Christine opens up about her personal journey—from confronting the emotional toll of cancer to navigating the complexities of the medical system, all while balancing the demands of family and career.

She shares her experience of recovery, the challenges of breast reconstruction, and how she found a new sense of purpose by helping others facing similar struggles.

Christine also discusses her upcoming movie, Hello Beautiful, which chronicles her journey through cancer as a mother, wife, and thriving model.

She also dives into the power of visibility and community, explaining how her authentic online presence has become a tool to inspire and empower others on their own journeys.

You can find Amy on Instagram @Amymarcs or www.amymarcs.com

You can find the show @Sexafterpodcast

Sex After is produced by @ironskirtproductions

You can find more on Christine Handy @Christinehandy1

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This week, Amy is joined by her producing partner and licensed therapist, Sasha Hawkes in Sex After: “The After”, where they will delve deeper into the conversation on Codependency and the Culture of Men’s Mental Health.

The After is a new series where Amy Marcs and Sasha Hawkes look more closely at the topics discussed in their previous episodes. This intimate follow-up series provides an opportunity for further exploration of mental health topics. 

Through The After, Amy and Sasha aim to continue the conversation, giving listeners a chance to connect on a deeper level while fostering a sense of community and healing.

In this insightful episode, Amy and Sasha look into the complexities of mental health, exploring themes of codependency, childhood experiences, and the emotional challenges faced by men in today’s society. Sasha shares her perspective as a mental health professional as she and Amy look at some of the important topics that have come up in the previous episode, such as abuse, trauma and finding ways to heal in the midst of chaos.

In the future these episodes will eventually become part of a paid membership, but for now, please enjoy Amy and Sasha as they get even more personal in The After…

Send us a DM @sexafterpodcast or @ironskirtproductions

Or you can email us: [email protected]

You can find Amy on Instagram @Amymarcs or www.amymarcs.com

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Amy continues her conversation with Chris Hajian, film composer and men’s mental health advocate. In this episode Chris opens up about the societal challenges men face when it comes to expressing vulnerability and emotions, and the urgent need to reshape this narrative. 

He shares his journey with his struggles around codependency and how he was able to find stability by learning how to honor his own feelings. 

Chris now leads men's groups where they explore topics like childhood trauma, masculinity, and the power of vulnerability. 

This honest and impactful conversation shows the need for men to be in touch with their emotions so they can show up fully in the world.

You can find Amy on Instagram @Amymarcs or www.amymarcs.com

You can find the show @Sexafterpodcast

Sex After is produced by @ironskirtproductions

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week Amy talks with Chris Hajian, film composer and men’s mental health advocate. In this episode, Chris explores his deeply personal journey of healing and self-discovery. Chris bravely opens up about the trauma, codependency, and abusive relationships he’s faced, and how these challenges have shaped his life.

Chris explores the shame he has carried from past abuse, and how therapy helped him find his voice, especially in high-risk moments when speaking up felt scary and uncertain. 

Chris also sheds light on the societal pressures that discourage vulnerability in men and stresses the vital need for more conversations about men’s emotional health and self-advocacy.

This is a much-needed conversation and a heartfelt discussion about strength, healing, and the power of breaking the silence around trauma.

You can find Amy on Instagram @Amymarcs or www.amymarcs.com

You can find the show @Sexafterpodcast

Sex After is produced by @ironskirtproductions

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Amy continues her conversation with Isadora O’Boto in Part 2 of Sex After Sex Work. In this episode, Isadora talks more about her life as the number one escort in the country as well as the intricacies of forming meaningful relationships with clients during that time. 

She shares the difficulties of dating and navigating personal relationships both during her time as an escort, as well as after she retired. 

Isadora highlights how societal perceptions impacted her life, including times when she experienced heartbreak and loss and the loneliness she felt as a result of those challenges. She also discusses the adverse narratives that get formed about the life of an escort and how deeply it affected her, ultimately leading her to create and discover her own sense of self worth and love despite the stigma attached to her work. 

She emphasizes the importance of storytelling, both as a writer and performer, as a way to process and reflect on her experiences. 

This conversation is a raw exploration of love, self-acceptance, and the realities of life as a former escort. Isadora shares where she is now, retired from her profession as an escort, and how she has continued to persevere and thrive.

You can find Amy on Instagram @Amymarcs or www.amymarcs.com

You can find the show @Sexafterpodcast

Sex After is produced by @ironskirtproductions

You can find more information about Isadora O'Boto, including links to her books, at www.isadoraoboto.com

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