Own Your Pleasure: Dr. Nicole McNichols on Better Intimacy, Better Relationships, and Less Shame | Episode 20

Own Your Pleasure: Dr. Nicole McNichols on Better Intimacy, Better Relationships, and Less Shame | Episode 20

Today in The Lab, we sit down with Dr. Nicole McNichols, clinical psychologist, professor, author of You Could Be Having Better Sex, and the instructor of one of the largest human sexuality courses in the United States. Teaching more than 4,000 students each year, Dr. McNichols has a front-row seat to how Gen Z thinks about sex, relationships, consent, and intimacy—and the trends may surprise you. From pornography and performance anxiety to planning intimacy and understanding pleasure, this conversation explores why so many people are having less sex while feeling more pressure than ever. Dr. McNichols explains why communication—not perfection—is the key to better sex and why pleasure deserves to be treated as an essential part of overall well-being. KEY TAKEAWAYS: * Gen Z is entering adulthood with less formal sex education, more exposure to pornography, and increasing pressure to perform rather than connect. * Better sex begins with understanding your body, communicating openly, and letting go of unrealistic expectations. * Planning intimacy, prioritizing pleasure, and building emotional connection can strengthen both sexual satisfaction and long-term relationships. SHOW SUMMARY: 00:00 – Intro and expectations vs. reality of sex 02:00 – Modern intimacy and the gaps in modern sex education 04:15 – Diversity and guest speakers in the classroom 05:01 – Gen Z sex and relationship trends 08:26 – Emphasizing a growth mindset and normalising sexual awkwardness 10:28 – The book "You Could Be Having Better Sex" and the Hierarchy of Sexual Needs 16:44 – The myth of spontaneous sex 20:05 – Sexual satisfaction as a driver of relationship satisfaction 23:18 – Exploring different types of intimacy and the power of non-sexual touch 26:40 – Who the book "You Could Be Having Better Sex" is written for 27:58 – The book-writing process and translating sex science research 29:45 – Promoting the book and its mainstream reception 31:33 – Closing billboard message: "Own your pleasure" RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE The Sexology Lab is powered by Sexual Health Alliance, a global hub for world-class certifications, cutting-edge education, and a thriving community of professionals. Many of the show's guests also share their expertise at their events. * Join them at: SexualHealthAlliance.com [http://sexualhealthalliance.com]  * S//xology Lab Practice Guide: ⁠https://www.sexologylab.com/guide⁠ [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbXNlRmRUSGVNMGVXTlRXdi1tSWgwY3dvYzJVZ3xBQ3Jtc0tsd3U5b3RhMzZuU0VmSnlCd0xqTXIxVUxDS0FGWlpaVUd2MzlNVWVYVXNQeW5CSUEzOHpZN0hSS0NxakdmeVlFa1BGNU5OV3VPOFRRVThkb3VSaVJrbnljVXVndjdEY3pBcTFTVzIwdU1rM2FLelJmbw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sexologylab.com%2Fguide%E2%81%A0&v=euxho59D-8Y] More from this episode's guest at: * Dr. Nicole McNichols:https://nicolethesexprofessor.com/about-nicole/ [https://nicolethesexprofessor.com/about-nicole/]  * You Could Be Having Better Sex: https://nicolethesexprofessor.com/ [https://nicolethesexprofessor.com/]    * University of Washington Human Sexuality Course: https://psych.uw.edu/people/2464 [https://psych.uw.edu/people/2464]  SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW: If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps us reach more people who need these insights. 🎙 Thanks for tuning in to The Sexology Lab. See you next week! https://www.sexologylab.com/ [https://www.sexologylab.com/]

Building SAALT: How Cherie Hoeger Turned Period Care Into a Global Mission | Episode 19

Today in The Lab, we sit down with Cherie Hoeger, CEO and co-founder of SAALT, to explore how one conversation about period poverty grew into one of the world's leading sustainable period care companies. From launching menstrual cups in 2018 to building a global brand focused on innovation, impact, and women's health, Cherie shares what it really takes to build a mission-driven business. This conversation goes far beyond period products. Cherie opens up about entrepreneurship, branding, leadership, company culture, sustainability, and balancing motherhood with running a multimillion-dollar company. She also shares SAALT's global efforts to fight period poverty through reusable menstrual products, clean water initiatives, and education for women and girls around the world. KEY TAKEAWAYS: * Sustainable period care is transforming both women's health and environmental impact, offering products that are more comfortable, convenient, and accessible than many people realize. * Mission-driven companies grow by investing in people, building a strong brand, and staying focused on long-term impact—not just short-term profits. * Ending global period poverty requires more than donating products. It demands education, clean water access, and sustainable solutions that empower women and girls for years to come. SHOW SUMMARY: 00:00 Entrepreneurship Myths & The MBA Misconception 01:00 Essential Business Advice for Mission-Driven Founders 01:41 Cherie’s Origin Story: Saalt’s Mission for Sustainable Period Care 03:03 Current Trends & Regulatory Shifts in Menstrual Health 04:37 Parental Guide: Normalizing Period Conversations with Daughters 06:48 Adolescent Reproductive Health: Understanding Menstrual Cycle Phases 08:34 Branding Strategy: Building a Mainstream, "Target-Worthy" Brand 10:39 The Founder’s Paradox: Scaling Beyond Daily Operations 11:43 Executive Hiring & Utilizing Professional Performance Assessments 13:31 Identifying & Leading with Your "Unique Ability" 14:42 Fostering a Purpose-Led Company Culture via Core Values 16:38 Marketing Strategy: "Edutainment" for Stigmatized Industries 18:32 Product Innovation: Menstrual Cups, Discs, and Period Underwear 22:42 Perimenopause & Postpartum: Solutions for Bladder Leaks 24:12 Global Social Impact: Linking Menstrual Health to Clean Water Access 27:06 Corporate Philanthropy: Strategy for Ending Global Period Poverty 29:59 Partnership Models for Sustainable Non-Profit Support 31:30 Environmental Sustainability: Repurposing Plastic in Textile Manufacturing 32:28 Circular Economy: Plastic Negative Certification & Waste Management 33:40 Future Forecast: Innovation in Athletic Wear & Biodegradable Materials 34:53 Lightning Round: Entrepreneurial Grit & Essential Leadership Resources 37:41 Empowering the Next Generation: Living a Deliberate Life RESOURCES MENTIONED THIS EPISODE: The Sexology Lab is powered by Sexual Health Alliance, a global hub for world-class certifications, cutting-edge education, and a thriving community of professionals. Many of the show's guests also share their expertise at their events. Join them at: SexualHealthAlliance.com [http://sexualhealthalliance.com]  Sexology Lab Practice Guide: https://www.sexologylab.com/guide [https://www.sexologylab.com/guide] More from this episode's guest at: * SAALT: https://saalt.com/ [https://saalt.com/]  * SAALT Gives: https://saalt.com/pages/impact [https://saalt.com/pages/impact]  * SAALT First Period Kit: https://saalt.com/collections/preset-bundles/products/first-period-kit-live [https://saalt.com/collections/preset-bundles/products/first-period-kit-live]  SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW: If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps us reach more people who need these insights. 🎙 Thanks for tuning in to The Sexology Lab. See you next week! https://www.sexologylab.com/ [https://www.sexologylab.com/]

Who Taught You About Pleasure? Laura Ramadei on Adult Media and Performance | Episode 18

Today in The Lab, we sit down with Laura Ramadei, SHA certified sexologist, sexuality coach, writer, and host of the feminist comedy podcast Girls on Porn. Laura shares how reviewing adult media through an intersectional feminist lens led her into sexology and why conversations about pornography, pleasure, and media literacy are more important than ever. Together, we explore how adult media has become the default sex educator for many people, what it gets wrong about intimacy, and how unrealistic expectations around performance leave so many people disconnected from their bodies. Laura also shares practical advice for reconnecting with pleasure, communicating with partners, and finding ethical adult content that prioritizes consent, diversity, and authenticity. KEY TAKEAWAYS: * Adult media has become the primary source of sex education for many people, but it often teaches performance instead of pleasure. * Great sex is built on communication, curiosity, and connection—not unrealistic expectations learned from mainstream pornography. * Reconnecting with your body often requires slowing down, practicing mindfulness, and letting go of the pressure to perform. SHOW SUMMARY: 01:44 – Laura Ramadei's experience in podcasting, writing, and media 02:29 – Origins and mission of the Girls on Porn podcast 05:36 – Reflections on a progressive, non-dogmatic sex education 07:54 – Discussion on adult media as a default source of sex education 10:46 – Inaccurate framings of sex in adult media as performance 15:38 – Misconceptions about female orgasm speed and ease 17:33 – Expert recommendations for ethical adult media platforms 23:32 – Writing on non-monogamy and the human experience of desire 27:15 – Challenges of public discourse on sex and digital censorship 31:20 – The impact of FOSTA-SESTA on sex worker safety and networks 35:32 – Inspiration and journey toward becoming a certified sex coach 37:44 – Common intimacy issues, including desire and non-monogamy 39:25 – Performance pressure as a barrier to physical pleasure 41:55 – Nuanced sexual scripts and communication in queer relationships 44:02 – Strategies for transitioning into mindful, present intimacy 45:26 – Mindful masturbation as an exercise for sensory awareness 47:46 – Moving from techniques to partner attunement and dialogue 50:04 – Lightning Round: Rapid advice on books, habits, and myths RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: The Sexology Lab is powered by Sexual Health Alliance, a global hub for world-class certifications, cutting-edge education, and a thriving community of professionals. Many of the show's guests also share their expertise at their events. Join them at: SexualHealthAlliance.com [http://sexualhealthalliance.com]  Sexology Lab Practice Guide: https://www.sexologylab.com/guide [https://www.sexologylab.com/guide] More from this episode's guest: * Girls on Porn Podcast: https://girlsonporn.com/ [https://girlsonporn.com/]  * Laura Ramadei: https://www.lauraramadei.com/ [https://www.lauraramadei.com/]  SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW: If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps us reach more people who need these insights. 🎙 Thanks for tuning in to The Sexology Lab. See you next week! https://www.sexologylab.com/ [https://www.sexologylab.com/]

"Just Open Your Legs": The Female Pleasure Gap in Nigeria with Dr. Tolulope Oko-Igaire | Episode 17

Today in The Lab, we sit down with Dr. Tolulope Oko-Igaire, therapist, intimacy expert, founder of the Intimacy Clinic, and founder of the Chartered Institute of Counseling in Nigeria. In a powerful and eye-opening conversation, Dr. Tolu shares what it means to advocate for sexual health, intimacy, and therapy in a culture where conversations about sex remain highly stigmatized and deeply influenced by religion, tradition, and social expectations. From sexless marriages and sexual misinformation to the role of pastors, prayer, and cultural expectations around marriage, Dr. Tolu offers a rare look into the realities many couples face across Nigeria and other parts of Africa. She also discusses the urgent need for sex therapy, sexual education, and mental health support in regions where these resources remain scarce. KEY TAKEAWAYS: * Sexual education in Nigeria is often shaped by fear, stigma, religion, and misinformation rather than evidence-based information. * Many couples struggle silently with sexual dissatisfaction, sexless marriages, and intimacy concerns because seeking help is still highly stigmatized. * Therapy, counseling, and sex therapy remain underutilized, but a growing number of professionals are working to expand access and awareness throughout Africa. SHOW SUMMARY: 00:00 – Overrated Marriage Expectations in Africa 01:36 – Guest Introduction: Dr. Toluope Oko-Igaire, "The Fixer” 01:50 – Cultural Identity and the Happiness Paradox in Nigeria 02:20 – African Sexual Reality Research and Global Implications 03:13 – Stigma, Low Literacy, and Sexual Taboos 03:48 – Social Media and the Spread of Sexual Misinformation 04:37 – Realizing the Need for Intimacy and Mental Health Support 05:04 – Religious Alternatives: Prayer Mountains vs. Counseling 05:47 – Radio Show Impact: "Intimate Talk with Auntie Tolu" 07:16 – Addressing Celibacy in Singles and Sexual Issues in Marriage 09:21 – Viral Influence: The "Intimate Wash" Breakthrough 11:34 – Cultural Conditioning and Life-Centered Marriage 13:12 – The Role of Parents and Family in African Weddings 14:58 – Spiritual Interventions for Infidelity and Marital Struggle 16:45 – The Scarcity of Professional Sex Therapy in Nigeria 18:51 – Unregulated Herbal Concoctions and Sexual Health 20:54 – Potential for Medical Research on African Aphrodisiacs 22:49 – Stigma and Low Engagement with Mental Health Care 23:49 – Shortage of Psychiatrists and Reliance on Medication 24:45 – Cultural Nuances and the Limitations of Western Therapy 25:47 – Fragile Masculinity and Barriers to Sexual Communication 28:06 – Lack of Education and the Erosion of Female Pleasure 30:53 – Male Provider Roles and Bride Price Implications 34:30 – Religious Constraints on Sexual Practices 37:25 – Lightning Round: Debunking Penetrative Sex Myths 38:10 – The Secret Craving for Orgasm and Exploration 39:03 – Avoiding the Topic of Sexual Satisfaction 40:27 – Modern Shifts in Infidelity and Traditional Taboos 42:57 – Normalizing Therapy as a Future Lifestyle RESOURCES MENTIONED THIS EPISODE: The Sexology Lab is powered by Sexual Health Alliance, a global hub for world-class certifications, cutting-edge education, and a thriving community of professionals. Many of the show’s guests also share their expertise at their events. Join them at: SexualHealthAlliance.com (http://sexualhealthalliance.com/ [http://sexualhealthalliance.com/]) More from this episode’s guest at: * Intimacy Clinic Nigeria: https://intimacyclinic.org/ [https://intimacyclinic.org/]  * Chartered Institute of Counseling Nigeria: https://thecicn.org/dr-tolulope-oko-igaire/ [https://thecicn.org/dr-tolulope-oko-igaire/]  * Dr. Tolulope Oko-Igaire: https://www.instagram.com/drtolu_thefixer/ [https://www.instagram.com/drtolu_thefixer/]  SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW: If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps us reach more people who need these insights. 🎙 Thanks for tuning in to The Sexology Lab. See you next week! https://www.sexologylab.com/ [https://www.sexologylab.com/]  Key TakeawaysSHOW SUMMARYRESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODESUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW

Shame and the Problem with Calling Everything an Addiction with Michael Vigorito | Episode 16

In this episode, we sit down with Michael Vigorito, licensed psychotherapist, AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, author, and co-director of Sexual Health Alliance’s Advanced Certification in Problem Sexual Behavior. Together, we challenge one of the most widely accepted and misunderstood concepts in modern sexology: sex addiction. Michael shares why many sexual health professionals have moved away from the sex addiction model and toward more nuanced, evidence-informed approaches to understanding out-of-control sexual behavior. We explore the powerful roles of shame, moral conflict, erotic identity development, and relationship dynamics, while discussing what actually helps people create healthier relationships with their sexuality. KEY TAKEAWAYS: * Many people who identify as "sex addicts" are experiencing shame, moral conflict, or distress rather than a true addiction process * Out-of-control sexual behavior is often influenced by multiple factors, including mental health, values conflicts, relationships, and erotic identity development * Curiosity, self-understanding, and integration are often more effective than shame-based approaches to creating lasting change SHOW SUMMARY: 00:00 – Introduction to Addiction Narratives 01:56 – Michael Vigorito’s Origin Story 04:24 – Impact of Conversion Therapy Law Changes 07:34 – Deconstructing the "Sex Addict" Label 09:31 – Defining Out of Control Sexual Behavior (OCSB) 12:00 – Problems with the Sex Addiction Model 15:27 – The Limitations of Abstinence 18:42 – Media Misuse and Externalizing Responsibility 21:16 – The Role of Shame and Moral Incongruence 24:26 – Understanding Erotic Orientation and Identity 28:12 – A Multifactorial Framework for Treatment 31:32 – Clinical Assessment and Motivation for Change 33:52 – Clinical Distinctions: Consent and Criminality 36:18 – Importance of Specialized Clinical Training 38:26 – Lightning Round 39:37 – Advice for the Next Generation RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: The Sexology Lab is powered by Sexual Health Alliance, a global hub for world-class certifications, cutting-edge education, and a thriving community of professionals. Many of the show’s guests also share their expertise at their events. * Join them at: SexualHealthAlliance.com More from this episode’s guest at: * Michael Vigorito: http://michaelvigorito.com/ * Sexual Health Alliance Advanced Certification in Problem Sexual Behavior: https://sexualhealthalliance.com/problem-sexual-behavior SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW: If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps us reach more people who need these insights: https://www.sexologylab.com/ 🎙 Thanks for tuning in to The Sexology Lab. See you next week!