In this episode of Untidy, Matilda and Hannah chat with the unshockable Cath Hakanson, a globally renowned sex educator and founder of Sex Ed Rescue, Sex Ed Shop, and the podcast Sex Ed for Tween Parents.

Cath has helped over a million parents around the world talk to their kids about sex, bodies, gender, and relationships. Her mission is to make these conversations less cringey, more confident, and just a normal part of growing up.

Cath unpacks how to move from the early “naming body parts” phase into the next chapter: helping tweens and teens navigate puberty, privacy, porn, pleasure, consent, and that glorious age where everything is “weird and embarrassing.”

Cath’s advice is simple but golden: focus on tiny, everyday chats, drop the shame, and let your kids know you’re a safe person to ask anything. Because if they can talk to you about sex, they can talk to you about anything.

Whether you’re at the start of the puberty rollercoaster or halfway up the climb, this conversation will leave you feeling better equipped, less squeamish, and seeing sausages in a whole new light.

References mentioned in the show:

• Sex Ed Rescue — Cath’s website with parent guides, book lists, and resources
• Sex Ed for Tween Parents Podcast
• Amaze — short, age-appropriate sex ed videos for kids and parents
• The New Zealand “Keep It Real Online” campaign — including the viral ad Porn Stars at the Door
• Cath’s recommended reading list/book resources
• Tricky Chats Parenting Course
• Parent site: https://thelightproject.co.nz/
• Teen site: https://www.intheknow.co.nz/
• How to talk to young people about pornography – NZ Classification Office

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