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In this week’s episode (a much-requested topic, by the way!) I sit down with fat-positive sex therapist Noelle Benach to explore the deeply complex terrain of sex, intimacy, body image, and pleasure.

The first part of the episode is free for all listeners, and the full episode is available for paid subscribers on Substack. Upgrade to paid right here.

Topics We Discuss:

How childhood experiences with food and body shape our understanding of intimacy

The impact of diet culture on desire, sexuality, and self-worth

Pleasure as a form of resistance and reclamation

The nuanced experience of living with diabetes and navigating intimacy

How societal expectations around desire affect women and marginalized bodies

Behind The Paywall...

Expanding the definition of intimacy beyond sex

What to do when partners have differing levels of sexual desire

Why talking about intimacy can feel intimidating—and why it matters anyway

The power of consent, sensory needs, and honoring what feels good

How body shame interferes with connection and pleasure

The radical importance of self-pleasure and solo intimacy

Creating safe spaces for vulnerability and honest communication

The therapeutic process of reconnecting with desire on your own terms

About Noelle: Noelle Benach, LCPC, CST (She/Her) is a Baltimore based Psychotherapist and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist. Noelle works with adult individuals, couples and those in non-monogamous relationships to address concerns such as sexuality and desire, body liberation, LGBTQIA+ issues, chronic illness concerns, neurodivergence, anxiety, fertility issues, and parenting stress.

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Podcast Cover Photography by Anya McInroy

Podcast Editing by Brian Walters

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