The Purple Passion Project-Intimacy & Sex Podcast for Midlife & Beyond

The Purple Passion Project is your go-to podcast for raw, real and irresistibly juicy conversations about sex, intimacy and everything we should be talking about—but usually don’t. Hosted by Dr. Stacy, a clinical sexologist with a cheeky sense of humor and a whole lot of real talk, this show dives deep into sex, intimacy, connection and everything in between. Whether you’re feeling a little stuck in your love life, curious about what turns you on, or just craving conversations that actually matter, you’re in the right place. We’re breaking down walls, busting myths and giving you permission to want more—with no shame, no filters and definitely no small talk. Expect expert guests, steamy insights and moments that’ll make you think, laugh and maybe shift in your seat. If you’re ready to ditch the surface-level chatter and explore what really turns you on—emotionally, physically, and relationally—this is your permission to press play. 

Episode & Guest Bio: Bern Mendez – Neuroscience-Based Dating & Relationship Coaching

If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing everything right in dating but still not finding the relationship you want—this one’s for you. BernMendez combines neuroscience, somatic approaches, and attachment research to help midlife women break through emotional barriers and find lasting partnership.

Bern is a dating and relationship coach with 14 years ofexperience, featured on CNN, HuffPost, and Univision. Based in Austin, TX, he helps women understand the subconscious patterns that block love and teaches them how to connect from a place of safety, confidence, and emotional alignment.

- How the nervous system affects dating patterns- The role of attachment in finding lasting love- Using polyvagal theory to feel safe in love- Why midlife dating requires a different approach- Overcoming subconscious barriers to commitment

Bern offers practical tools and deep insight for anyone ready to stop repeating the same dating cycles and start attracting emotionally available partners.

💜 Follow Bern:

https://www.youtube.com/@bernmendez https://www.bernmendez.com

💜 Follow me: @drstacyfriedman (IG, Tiktok, YouTube, FB)

About Bern Mendez:What We Talk About:Why You Should Listen:

The Purple Passion Project is your go-to podcast for raw, real and irresistibly juicy conversations about sex, intimacy and everything we should be talking about—but usually don’t. Hosted by Dr. Stacy, a clinical sexologist with a cheeky sense of humor and a whole lot of real talk, this show dives deep into sex, intimacy, connection and everything in between. Whether you’re feeling a little stuck in your love life, curious about what turns you on, or just craving conversations that actually matter, you’re in the right place. We’re breaking down walls, busting myths and giving you permission to want more—with no shame, no filters and definitely no small talk. Expect expert guests, steamy insights and moments that’ll make you think, laugh and maybe shift in your seat. If you’re ready to ditch the surface-level chatter and explore what really turns you on—emotionally, physically, and relationally—this is your permission to press play.

Guest: Ava Pikul, Intimacy Coach & Tantric Therapist

Feeling numb “down there”? Emotionally checked out from your body? Disconnected from pleasure, even when you want to feel it? You are not alone—and you are not broken.

In this raw and powerful episode of The Purple Passion Project, Dr. Stacy sits down with Ava Pikul—a sensual guide, transformational therapist, and tantric practitioner who helps women finally feel at home in their bodies again.

Together, we explore why so many high-achieving, over-giving women find themselves burnt out, sexually shut down, and disconnected from their own desires. More importantly—we talk about how to come back online.

• Why you may feel numb during intimacy (and how to change it)

• The hidden ways trauma lives in the body

• What it really means to be sexually embodied

• The myth of “I’m not ready yet” and how it keeps women stuck

• How spirituality and sensuality were never meant to be separate

• The vagina-brain connection and why your pleasure is your power

• How to reconnect with yourself without needing to “fix” anything

About Ava:
Ava Pikul is a Tibetan Five Elements Practitioner, ABS Sexologist, and Rapid Transformational Therapist who guides women from burnout to embodied bliss. Through her Diamond Ascension Intimacy Coaching and Ava’s Aphrodisia line of products, she helps women reclaim their sensuality and rewire their pleasure pathways from the inside out.

Follow her on Instagram: @ava.pikul & www.diamondascension.org

🎧 Listen now and share with a woman who needs to know:
✨ You were never broken. You were just never fully claimed.

💜 Subscribe to The Purple Passion Project for more unfiltered conversations on sex, intimacy, and desire — and if you loved the episode, leave a review or follow me @drstacyfriedman for more.
www.drstacyfriedman.com

The Purple Passion Project is your go-to podcast for raw, real and irresistibly juicy conversations about sex, intimacy and everything we should be talking about—but usually don’t.Hosted by Dr. Stacy, a clinical sexologist with a cheeky sense of humor and a whole lot of real talk, this show dives deep into sex, intimacy, connection and everything in between. Whether you’re feeling a little stuck in your love life, curious about what turns you on, or just craving conversations that actually matter, you’re in the right place. We’re breaking down walls, busting myths and giving you permission to want more—with no shame, no filters and definitely no small talk. Expect expert guests, steamy insights and moments that’ll make you think, laugh and maybe shift in your seat. If you’re ready to ditch the surface-level chatter and explore what really turns you on—emotionally, physically, and relationally—this is your permission to press play. 

Guest Bio:

Dr. Eva Brown Burnett has been teaching, guiding, and mentoring individuals, couples, and families in private practice for over a decade (25,000+ hours of 1 on 1 coaching). She offers much more than the basic relationship tweak, intimacy hack or communication tip, although “all of that” is part of her work,too. Her work carries extraordinary depth so the people most attracted to her work want the whole Sha-Bang when it comes to co-creating a conscious and sacred partnership. Her magic is making all things “healthy relating” simple, easy, and tangible to contemplate & integrate overtime. 

She is known for her signature methodology “ConsciousRelationship Mapping™” which is woven throughout all of her offerings, including the Sacred Partners Membership. Her traditional training was completed at Nova Southeastern University where she received her master’s & Ph.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy. 

She is Gottman 1 & 2 certified, and her work is both traumaand research informed. Her mission is to help couples create a “Love Legacy” that stands the test of time, is deeply fulfilling & devoted to love, itself!

Become a member of the Sacred Partners “Love Legacy” Membership here: https://sacredlifepartners.com/sacred-partners-membership/

Take the 3 Types of Couples Dynamics Quiz: https://sacredlifepartners.com/couple-quiz/

Get complimentary access to the “5 Stages to ConsciousRelationship MappingTM” mini-course, which provides a “road map” for couples to understand how, why, and where to begin their growth journey together.: https://sacredlifepartners.com/mini-course/

Listen to the Sacred Partners podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6Qn3967PSApQSS83Li7Ds5?si=VzJOhmBQSN6NUHBR3-RfeQ

Join the Sacred Partners relationship blog, which is 100% focused on serving & supporting you and your relationship. Sign up free here: https://sacredlifepartners.com/newsletter-signup/

The Purple Passion Project is your go-to podcast for raw, real and irresistibly juicy conversations aboutsex, intimacy and everything we should be talking about—but usually don’t. Hosted by Dr. Stacy, a clinical sexologist with a cheeky sense of humor and a whole lot of real talk, this show dives deep into sex, intimacy, connection and everything in between. Whether you’re feeling a little stuck in your love life, curious about what turns you on, or just craving conversations that actually matter, you’re in the right place. We’re breaking down walls, busting myths and giving you permission to want more—with no shame, no filters and definitely no small talk. Expect expert guests, steamy insights and moments that’ll make you think, laugh and maybe shift in your seat. If you’re ready to ditch the surface-level chatter and explore what really turns you on—emotionally, physically, and relationally—this is your permission to press play. 

Guest Bio: Mark Cusack- Mark Cusack (they/he) is an author, lecturer and specialist coach supporting people with complex, fluid or undefined sexuality and gender.

Mark runs the online platform @notdefining where he makes content about bisexuality, asexuality, non-binary identities and neuro divergence.

Mark grew up between Kilmarnock in Scotland and Hertfordshire in England and now lives in Liverpool UK.

Social media: @notdefining

The Purple Passion Project is your go-to podcast for raw, real and irresistibly juicy conversations about sex, intimacy and everything we should be talking about—but usually don’t. Hosted by Dr. Stacy, a clinical sexologist with a cheeky sense of humor and a whole lot of real talk, this show dives deep intosex, intimacy, connection and everything in between. Whether you’re feeling a little stuck in your love life, curious about what turns you on, or just craving conversations that actually matter, you’re in the right place. We’re breaking down walls, busting myths and giving you permission to want more—withno shame, no filters and definitely no small talk. Expect expert guests, steamy insights and moments that’ll make you think, laugh and maybe shift in your seat. If you’re ready to ditch the surface-level chatter and explore what really turns you on—emotionally, physically, and relationally—this is your permission to press play. 

Guest Bio: Dr. Kryss Shane (she/her)-With over 25 years of experience guiding the world’s top leaders in business, education and community via individual, small group and full-staff trainings, Dr. Kryss Shane, MBA, MS, MSW, LSW, LMSW (she/her) has been featured as America’s go-to Leading LGBT+ Expert in The New York Times, ABC News, Yahoo!, and CNN. Her writing has also appeared in the Journal of Nonprofit Education and Leadership,  Huffington Post, International Council of Professors of Educational Leadership, The New Social Worker Magazine, and many more.

Dr. Kryss is known for helping businesses address their unique Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion needs in an approachable, manageable and actionable way. This includes alterations to physical spaces, updating hiring practices, re-drafting policies and procedures and more. In addition to her doctorate, she holds two master’s degrees, two licenses to practice mental healthcare, and she is currently serving as the Director of the Social Work Program and Assistant Professor at Thomas University, as well as being a Lecturer at Columbia University and an Adjunct Professor at Fordham University, Endicott College, National Louis University, and National University.

Dr. Kryss is the author of The Medical Professional's Guide to LGBT+ Inclusion: Creating a Workplace Culture that Nurtures a Welcoming, Inclusive, and Affirming Environment which provides guidance to medical professionals at hospitals, clinics, and more to become best prepared to treat and care for LGBT+ people within their facilities. She has also written Creating an LGBT+ Inclusive University: A Practical Resource Guide for Faculty and Administrators, which provides guidance for faculty and administrators of universities and colleges to become knowledgeable, capable, and able to make their campuses (including online campuses) more LGBT+ inclusive. Dr. Kryss is also the author of Creating an LGBT+ Inclusive Workplace: The Practical Resource Guide for Business Leaders, which provides best practices and professional guidance for creating LGBT+ inclusive workplaces, including creating safer working environments, updating company policies, enhancing continuing education and training, and better supporting LGBT+ people in the workplace training and other tangible ways to support LGBT+ people in the workplace. Dr. Kryss’ first book, The Educator's Guide to LGBT+ Inclusion, is the first book of its kind to guide educators, administrators, and school staff to become able and empowered to make their schools more LGBT+ inclusive. www.thisiskryss.com

The Purple Passion Project is your go-to podcast for raw, real and irresistibly juicy conversations about sex, intimacy and everything we should be talking about—but usually don’t. Hosted by Dr. Stacy, a clinical sexologist with a cheeky sense of humor and a whole lot of real talk, this show dives deep into sex, intimacy, connection and everything in between. Whether you’re feeling a little stuck in your love life, curious about what turns you on, or just craving conversations that actually matter, you’re in the right place. We’re breaking down walls, busting myths and giving you permission to want more—with no shame, no filters and definitely no small talk. Expect expert guests, steamy insights and moments that’ll make you think, laugh and maybe shift in your seat. If you’re ready to ditch the surface-level chatter and explore what really turns you on—emotionally, physically, and relationally—this is your permission to press play.

Podcast Guest Bio – Tammi LippIntuitive Healer | Spiritual Coach | Psychic Medium | SpeakerTammi Lipp is an Intuitive Healer, Spiritual Coach, and Psychic Medium who helps strong, creative souls reconnect with their intuition, clear energetic blocks, and evolve into their most authentic, soul-aligned selves.After a successful career in commercial real estate, Tammi’s life took a powerful turn when she became a mother and experienced postpartum anxiety. That awakening led her on a deep inner journey—through energy work, healing, and spiritual discovery—that ultimately revealed her natural gifts as an open channel and intuitive guide.Tammi went on to become certified in MCKS Pranic Energy Healing®, Neuro Identity Evolution® Coaching, Holy Fire® Reiki, and trained as a Clairvoyant Practitioner. She blends practical tools with metaphysical wisdom to help high-achieving individuals access clarity, healing, and purpose. Her signature message, “You’re not crazy, you’re intuitive,” has inspired audiences in workshops, moon circles, and live events to embrace their sensitivity, expand their consciousness, and live more intuitively—out loud.Tammi lives in South Florida with her talented artist husband and adorable son and offers private sessions, group experiences, and transformational talks both online and in person.@tammilipp / sacredphilosophies.com

The Purple Passion Project is your go-to podcast for raw, real and irresistibly juicy conversations about sex, intimacy and everything we should be talking about—but usually don’t. Hosted by Dr. Stacy, a clinical sexologist with a cheeky sense of humor and a whole lot of real talk, this show dives deep into sex, intimacy, connection and everything in between. Whether you’re feeling a little stuck in your love life, curious about what turns you on, or just craving conversations that actually matter, you’re in the right place. We’re breaking down walls, busting myths and giving you permission to want more—with no shame, no filters and definitely no small talk. Expect expert guests, steamy insights and moments that’ll make you think, laugh and maybe shift in your seat. If you’re ready to ditch the surface-level chatter and explore what really turns you on—emotionally, physically, and relationally—this is your permission to press play.

Susan Winograd, MSPT, is the owner and founder of Pelvicore Rehab & Wellness, a premier pelvic health and wellness practice based in Boca Raton, Florida. Pelvicore Rehab & Wellness specializes in Women's Health, Men's Health, Pre- and Postnatal Care, Menopause Health, and a wide range of digestive, bowel, bladder, and sexual health issues.

Susan has expanded her practice to include Hormone Health, supporting individuals in addressing fatigue, brain fog, hormonal imbalance, anxiety, stubborn belly fat, and gut issues. Her holistic, root-cause approach blends education, expert care, and community to help clients achieve lasting health independence. Pelvicore's revolutionary system empowers people to take charge of their health with confidence, clarity, and support.

She is passionate about education and clinical outreach, which inspired the launch of Ask the Experts, a monthly educational initiative designed to bring foundational, expert-led health information to the broader community. Through these live events, Pelvicore creates access to trusted resources that support whole-body wellness and lifelong learning.

Susan teaches internationally and has developed programs for the Eden Center in Israel and for GOLD Online Education. Her treatment philosophy is grounded in a hands-on, whole-person approach, focused on uncovering and addressing the root cause of dysfunction for long-term healing. She has been featured in Shootout Miami, BOLD Magazine, Peloton, and Fit&Well Magazine, and she hosts the podcast Your Pelvic Health, where she shares practical insights and expert interviews.

Her commitment remains rooted in providing the highest level of personalized care, helping clients relieve pain, restore function, and live vibrant, empowered lives.

SUSAN'S LINKS:
www.pelvicorerehab.com
https://www.facebook.com/pelvicorerehabandwellness/ 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-winograd-8400bb156/ 
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCiEl1ZFlA5SzN44MhUwzgA?view_as=subscriber

The Purple Passion Project is your go-to podcast for raw, real and irresistibly juicy conversations about sex, intimacy and everything we should be talking about—but usually don’t. Hosted by Dr. Stacy, a clinical sexologist with a cheeky sense of humor and a whole lot of real talk, this show dives deep into sex, intimacy, connection and everything in between. Whether you’re feeling a little stuck in your love life, curious about what turns you on, or just craving conversations that actually matter, you’re in the right place. We’re breaking down walls, busting myths and giving you permission to want more—with no shame, no filters and definitely no small talk. Expect expert guests, steamy insights and moments that’ll make you think, laugh and maybe shift in your seat. If you’re ready to ditch the surface-level chatter and explore what really turns you on—emotionally, physically, and relationally—this is your permission to press play.

Julie Savitz is a certified healthy coach, life coach and divorce coach. She helps women navigate the chaos of divorce and come out healthier and stronger on the other side. With empathy, real-life experience, and no-nonsense support, she guides clients through the emotional, logistical, and personal challenges of separation—so they can rebuild with clarity, confidence, and purpose. Julie's mission is simple: help women stop just surviving and start thriving.

Some of Julie's links for the show are FB= https://www.facebook.com/julie.savitz
YT= https://www.youtube.com/@julie.savitz

The Purple Passion Project is your go-to podcast for raw, real and irresistibly juicy conversations about sex, intimacy and everything we should be talking about—but usually don’t. Hosted by Dr. Stacy, a clinical sexologist with a cheeky sense of humor and a whole lot of real talk, this show dives deep into sex, intimacy, connection and everything in between. Whether you’re feeling a little stuck in your love life, curious about what turns you on, or just craving conversations that actually matter, you’re in the right place. We’re breaking down walls, busting myths and giving you permission to want more—with no shame, no filters and definitely no small talk. Expect expert guests, steamy insights and moments that’ll make you think, laugh and maybe shift in your seat. If you’re ready to ditch the surface-level chatter and explore what really turns you on—emotionally, physically, and relationally—this is your permission to press play.

Susan Block, LMFT, is the founder of Coral Springs Counseling Center—South Florida's top-rated online therapy practice for couples and individuals who are ready to roll up their sleeves and do the real work. She and her team specialize in helping couples work through everything from intimacy struggles and mismatched sex drives to communication breakdowns, infidelity, and those "are we even going to make it?" moments.

Many of the couples Susan works with have tried therapy before- maybe it didn't click, or maybe it just wasn't the right time. Now, it's their last-ditch effort, and Susan and her team are known for helping turn things around when the stakes feel high. With a warm, candid, and no-fluff approach, they tailor each session to meet clients where they are, using practical tools and strategies that actually work especially for couples stuck in the stress and disconnect of everyday life.