Sex carries so much currency in our internal and external landscapes. For many, sexuality is cloaked in shame, fear, or heady expectations that leave us feeling short-changed and disempowered. Fortunately, the tides are shifting with the help of pioneers like Dr. Kate Balestrieri, a sex therapist helping people integrate the physical and emotional components of sex, sexuality, and relationships. True sexual embodiment is a journey, not a destination (the same can be said for orgasms). This conversation undresses all the topics you’ve probably been thinking about but were too scared to utter out loud. Krista, Lindsey, and Dr. Kate candidly untangle the narrative surrounding porn, patriarchy, and partnerships while boldly confronting the common intimacy challenges in modern relationships today. We also talk about: How the nervous system affects pleasure  Navigating expectations around sex Exploring blocks in partnership Why couples therapy works The spectrum of sex positivity Patriarchy and internalized misogyny  Desire, fetish, and ethical porn Tips for elevating your sexual practice  Processing sexual trauma  Sponsors: Zocdoc | Search for local doctors who take your insurance. Download the Zocdoc app for free at zocdoc.com/almost30. FX Chocolate | Go to FXchocolate.com and enter code "ALMOST30" for 20% off. Bite | Get 20% off your first subscription order at trybite.com/almost30 or use code ALMOST30 at checkout.  Each & Every  | Get 30% off your first purchase at eachandevery.com/almost30 and use the code “ALMOST30”at checkout.  Earth & Star | Use the code ALMOST30 for 15% off your first order at earthandstar.com.  Resources: Website: modernintimacy.com Instagram:@drkatebalestrieri TikTok:@drkatebalestrieri “The Way of the Superior Man: A Spiritual Guide to Mastering the Challenges of Women, Work, and Sexual Desire” by David Deida “Wired for Love: How Understanding Your Partner's Brain and Attachment Style Can Help You Defuse Conflict and Build a Secure Relationship” by  Stan Tatkin  Join our community: almost30.com/membership facebook.com/Almost30podcast/groups Podcast disclaimer can be found by visiting: almost30.com/disclaimer. Find more to love at almost30.com!Almost 30 is edited by Crate Media. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy Podsights - https://podsights.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices