Episodes

  • Beyond Sex: Understanding Desire with Shadeen Francis (260)

    Beyond Sex: Understanding Desire with Shadeen Francis (260)
    Mar 11 2025
    Desire is a liberating force Dr. Ann Kelley and Shadeen Francis, LMFT unpack the intricate nature of desire, extending beyond just the sexual realm. They unpack the challenges in identifying true desires, the role of embodiment in self-awareness, and the key distinction between wanting and liking. Together they discuss intimacy, self-discovery and communication - with an emphasis on the need for negotiation and authentic connection in sexual experiences. "The simplest of all luxuries is the freedom to pursue your pleasure." - Shadeen Francis Time Stamps for Beyond Sex: Understanding Desire 05:15 The challenge of identifying desire 17:58 The nuances of wanting vs. liking 25:01 Desire in sexual contexts 35:07 Negotiating wants in relationships 44:41 The impact of technology on desire 56:30 Desire as a tool for liberation About our Guest - Shadeen Francis, LMFT, CST Shadeen Francis is a licensed marriage and family psychotherapist and a board-certified sex therapist. Her expertise spans the domains of mental health, emotional intelligence, and the intersection of sexual wellness and social justice. A sought-after voice in her field, Shadeen has been featured on major networks including ABC, NBC, and CBS, and has been the subject matter expert for prominent brands such as Essence, Bumble, Tinder, and Teen Vogue. Shadeen's work extends beyond the therapy room, influencing nationally implemented curricula, global media strategies, and public health policies. Known for her signature brand of warmth and humor, Shadeen’s work is inspired by her commitment to helping people live lives full of peace and pleasure. Resources for Beyond Sex: Understanding Desire shadeenfrancis.com - Shadeen's website, resources, and other information hello@shadeenfrancis.com - The best way to contact Shadeen @shadeenfrancis - Shadeen's Instagram handle Get your copy of Secure Relating here!! Interested in joining our exclusive community? Get early access and discounts to things we produce, plus a totally ad-free private feed. In addition, receive exclusive episodes recorded just for you. Sign up for our premium Neuronerd plan!! Click here!! Find Upcoming Events here Featured event: Ann and Sue are deep diving into clinical application of their work at the Psychotherapy Networker Symposium - March 20-23, 2025. It's an incredible conference - they'd love to see you there! Rethinking Attachment – Using the Attachment Spectrum in Clinical Practice Please support our sponsors for this episode - they keep our podcast free and accessible to all! Coffee alternative powered by mushrooms! Right now, you can get 20% off plus a FREE starter kit when you shop exclusively Piquelife.com/tu More goodness for your body and mind - Ancient Nutrition is offering 25% off your first order when you go to AncientNutrition.com/TU Integrative Attachment Therapy Course Information Therapists: THIS is our recommended course experience for the most comprehensive training on attachment out there. Use our link for a discount! Thanks for stopping by & for being on this journey with us!
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    1 hr and 6 mins
  • Pleasurable Sex, Gender Queerness & Life Burnout with Dr. Emily Nagoski (259)

    Pleasurable Sex, Gender Queerness & Life Burnout with Dr. Emily Nagoski (259)
    Feb 25 2025
    Dr. Emily Nagoski joins co-host Sue Marriott for a deep and insightful conversation about desire, pleasure, and the impact of societal norms on sexuality. Together they explore the evolving landscape of trans rights and healthcare, emphasizing patient-centered care and the urgent need for societal support. Through her journey as a sex educator, Nagoski advocates for deeper understanding and connection, while also sharing practical approaches to educating young people about gender and sexuality, managing stress, and finding meaning and purpose in life.
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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • Bonus – Disorganized / Unresolved Attachment with Dr. Krista Jordan (258)

    Bonus – Disorganized / Unresolved Attachment with Dr. Krista Jordan (258)
    Feb 18 2025
    This is a sneak peek of our episode with Dr. Krista Jordan - available only on our Premium Supercast and Patreon platforms. For as little as $5/month you can have access to special releases like this one, first-to-know about upcoming events and discounts and an ad-free feed. Dr. Krista Jordan & co-host Sue Marriott LCSW CGP dive into the messy, fascinating world of the 4th attachment category - disorganized attachment. Through intimate personal stories, they describe how it shows up in therapy, relationships, and everyday life. They explore the Adult Attachment Projective (AAP) and Adult Attachment Interview (AAI), unpacking what is sometimes called disorganized, unresolved, dysregulated, dissociated attachment that can ripple through generations.Learn how dismissive strategies work so well they can stop us from growing, why feedback (and a little distress) is crucial for self-awareness, and how shame and anger are often two sides of the same coin.
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    17 mins
  • The Power of Liberation: Courage, Identity & Growth with Pam Benson Owens (257)

    The Power of Liberation: Courage, Identity & Growth with Pam Benson Owens (257)
    Feb 11 2025
    We’re kicking off February with a powerful conversation with the incredible Pam Benson Owens. Alongside co-host Sue Marriott, they explore what it means to live with purpose, navigate systemic challenges, and find liberation in everyday choices. Pam shares her wisdom on the role of self-care in activism, the courage it takes to engage in difficult conversations, and how fear shows up in DEI work. This episode dives deep into the intersection of personal and organizational growth, touching on themes of vulnerability, belonging, and the evolving landscape of diversity and identity. Sue and Pam also tackle honest conversations about race and privilege, the “messy middle” of personal transformation, and why pacing yourself is essential for long-term impact.
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    1 hr and 2 mins
  • Rediscovering Play for More Secure Connections with Children – and Adults (256)

    Rediscovering Play for More Secure Connections with Children – and Adults (256)
    Jan 28 2025
    Co-host Sue Marriott, with special guests, Tina Payne Bryson and Georgie Wisen-Vincent, discuss the powerful role of play in child development and its therapeutic benefits. Play fosters emotional resilience, strengthens parent-child attachment, and supports positive neuroplasticity. They acknowledge the resistance some parents may feel towards engaging in play, while also providing practical strategies for parents to incorporate into their daily interactions. Learn how embracing play can nurture emotional growth and empower both children and parents in meaningful ways.
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    1 hr and 11 mins
  • Family Estrangement, Spiritual Harm & the Ethics of AI in Therapy with Matthias Barker (255)

    Family Estrangement, Spiritual Harm & the Ethics of AI in Therapy with Matthias Barker (255)
    Jan 14 2025
    Ann and Sue, alongside psychotherapist Matthias Barker, unpack the complexities of parent-child estrangement and the often-overlooked generational gaps that shape how families navigate conflict. Matthias discusses the deep wounds that spiritual harm can leave behind, and also expands into broader themes of spirituality. With the emerging presence of AI, they open the conversation to the ethical challenges of the technology and creating meaningful change, whether in family dynamics or the future of mental health care.
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    1 hr and 1 min
  • 2024 Reflections: Growth, Connection & Celebrating Community (254)

    2024 Reflections: Growth, Connection & Celebrating Community (254)
    Dec 31 2024
    As we close out another year, Ann and Sue take time to reflect on 2024 while sharing some exciting opportunities for the year ahead. The Vitality Series is an exciting new endeavor, where they emphasize creating safe spaces for dialogue, navigating tough emotions, and bringing therapeutic concepts into everyday life. With an honest look at shame, vulnerability, and the challenges of personal growth, they explore how connection can empower both individuals and communities. Along the way, they celebrate the milestones of their podcast, emphasize the importance of self-reflection, and highlight the role of supportive networks in fostering meaningful change.
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    55 mins
  • Embodied Dying: Embracing the Sacred Union Between Life & Death (253)

    Embodied Dying: Embracing the Sacred Union Between Life & Death (253)
    Dec 17 2024
    Lee Warren shares her experience of living in an intentional community and how it opened the door to exploring tantra and the sacredness of death. Alongside co-host Sue Marriott, they explore tantra as a way to connect with the divine within ourselves and others, using tools like breath, sound, and movement to navigate the energy in our bodies. They also discuss death as a sacred process and the importance of preparing for it—both practically and spiritually. Learn how tantra and death preparation share a common goal: helping us embrace the impermanence of life and find joy in the present moment.
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    51 mins