In this episode of Sex After: The After, Amy and Sasha continue the conversation sparked by their deeply moving interview with Norman Buckley about grief, loss, trauma, healing, and the unpredictable ways we move through pain.

Together, they explore the difference between grief and loss, why grief is never linear, and what it means to get “stuck” in pain versus learning how to live alongside it. Sasha shares insight from a therapist’s perspective on trauma responses, emotional triggers, dissociation, rewiring the brain, and the importance of allowing ourselves to feel rather than avoid difficult emotions.

Amy opens up about losing both of her parents at very different stages of life, the lasting impact of losing a parent young, and the profound loneliness that can come with grief. The conversation also dives into joy versus happiness, gentle reminders, expectations, healing, self-compassion, and why being present with someone in pain can matter more than having the “right” words.

This is a conversation about carrying grief, making space for uncertainty, and finding moments of connection, humor, and joy even in the middle of heartbreak.

Topics include:

·      Grief vs. loss

·      Trauma and emotional triggers

·      Dissociation and coping mechanisms

·      Joy vs. happiness

·      The importance of community and support

·      How to support someone who is grieving

·      Expectations, disappointment, and acceptance

·      Gentle reminders and self-compassion

If this episode resonates with you, please rate, review, and share with someone who may need it.

Please follow us @SexAfterPodcast and @IronSkirtProductions

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This week’s episode is about grief, loss, and what it means to live with both, something all of us experience, in ways big and small, throughout our lives.

I’m joined by Norman Buckley, an acclaimed television director whose work includes Pretty Little Liars, Gossip Girl, The O.C., and Sweet Magnolias. He is also a beautiful writer whose reflections on loss have really stayed with me.

Together, we explore a different way of thinking about grief, not as something we move through, but as something that becomes part of us. And within that how we continue to live, to notice, and to stay open to life.

We talk about presence, creativity, and what it means to continue showing up, even when life doesn’t look the way we thought it would.

This is also a conversation about something many of us struggle with: how hard it can be to talk about loss, how often people change the subject or don’t know what to say, and how that can leave us feeling alone in our experience.

Because when we don’t talk about our pain, it tends to stay with us in ways we don’t always realize.

And when we allow ourselves to stay in the conversation… something begins to shift.

Whether you’re navigating loss right now or simply living a life where loss exists, this conversation is about being present for your life, for the people around you, and for the moments, big and small, that are still here.

For more information about Norman Buckley, please visit his website: http://normanbuckley.com/

For more information about Sex After, please follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sexafterpodcast/

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Perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause can make up nearly half of a woman’s life. So why are we still not talking about it?

In this follow-up to our conversation with Dr. Suzanne, Amy and Sasha continue exploring the realities of perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause and why these conversations are so important.

Sasha shares the deeply personal story behind why Dr. Suzanne is “her angel,” opening up about being diagnosed with thyroid cancer while pregnant with her son and the support she received during that frightening time.

Together, Amy and Sasha reflect on the powerful feedback from listeners who said the episode helped them feel less alone. They discuss the silence and confusion that often surround menopause, the challenge of conflicting information, and the importance of advocating for your health.

They also talk candidly about mood changes, intimacy, body changes, relationships, and the emotional impact of feeling like you’re “not yourself.” Most of all, this episode is about the healing power of honesty, community, and saying these experiences out loud.

Whether HRT is an option for you or not, the message remains the same: you don’t have to navigate this season alone.

We love hearing from you. If this episode resonated, share it with someone who might need it, and feel free to reach out and tell us what you're experiencing too.

To contact us, please send us a message: [email protected]

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

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Amy and Sasha sit down with Dr. Suzanne Gilberg, OB/GYN and founder of The Menopause Bootcamp, for an honest, empowering conversation about perimenopause, menopause, and post menopause. They explore the symptoms no one warned us about such as anxiety, rage flashes, brain fog, and emotional shifts, and why so many women don’t realize hormones may be playing a role.

Dr. Suzanne breaks down what’s actually happening in the body during this transition and why so many women feel dismissed, misdiagnosed, or under-treated. The conversation goes deep into intimacy and sexual health in midlife, including vaginal estrogen, urinary health, HRT, pelvic floor therapy, changing pleasure, and why it’s never too late to reconnect with your body whether you’re partnered or single.

This episode is a powerful reminder that you’re not losing your mind. Your body is changing. And as Dr. Suzanne says: Don't give up.

For more information about Sex After, please follow us @SexAfterPodcast or @IronSkirtProductions

For more information about Dr. Suzanne Gilberg, please follow @AskDrSuzanne

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In this New Year’s episode of Sex After, Amy Marcs and therapist Sasha Hawkes gently dismantle the pressure of January 1st. Together, they explore why resolutions often leave us feeling ashamed, anxious, or behind and why intentions offer a kinder, more sustainable alternative.

They talk about easing into the year instead of forcing change, using ritual and language to create safety in the body, and allowing grief, exhaustion, or uncertainty to exist without judgment. The conversation also touches on releasing what no longer serves you, trusting without needing all the answers, and remembering that vulnerability is strength when it is shared in safe, connected spaces.

This episode is a reminder that there is no right way to start the year. You are allowed to rest, to stabilize, to take your time, and to begin exactly where you are.

For more information please follow us @SexAfterPodcast or @IronSkirtProductions

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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.

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

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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