More Than a Plus: Ace, Aro, and the Spectrum of Attraction

More Than a Plus: Ace, Aro, and the Spectrum of Attraction

In this episode, we unzip asexual (ace) and aromantic (aro) orientations and explore the identities that are part of the “plus” in LGBTQIA+. We talk about what these terms mean, why they matter, and how understanding them helps create space for the many different ways people experience attraction and connection. What’s the difference between sexual attraction and romantic attraction? Why aren’t orientation and libido the same thing? And what about some of the most common myths the aro/ace communities encounter—like the idea that aro/ace people don’t have relationships, don’t have sex, or are somehow “broken”?As part of this conversation, we also explore the fluidity of identity and the pressure social expectations can place on people to fit a particular path. Everyone gets to decide how they describe their own experiences, and no one owes the world a label before they’re ready—or at all. Whether you’re hearing these terms for the first time, supporting someone you care about, or simply curious to learn more, this episode is an invitation to approach the conversation with openness, respect, and a little less assumption. Our conversation is a reminder that there isn't one "right" way to experience attraction, relationships, or intimacy—and that understanding starts with making room for the full spectrum of human experience. If you have a story, thoughts and/or a topic or question for Dr. Sue and Charlie please share your ideas here:  ⁠Show suggestions [https://milsteinhealthconsulting.com/unzipping-taboos] If you want to ask Dr Sue a sex question for the weekly Q&A you can submit it here: Ask a question [https://milsteinhealthconsulting.com/heydrsue]

Women Don’t Expire: Aging, Menopause, and Cultural Myths - Part 2

In Part 2 of our conversation on perimenopause and menopause, we move beyond biology and into the healthcare experiences, cultural messages, and societal expectations that shape how women experience aging. We break down the differences between Pap smears and pelvic exams, talk about changing screening recommendations, and discuss why regular healthcare conversations remain important throughout adulthood. Then we zoom out. Why are women so often taught that aging makes them less visible, less desirable, or less valuable? Why are menopausal experiences so often reduced to stereotypes while companies market endless products promising to “fix” what aging changes? We unzip media portrayals of menopause, body image, desirability, and the pressure women face to resist aging rather than experience it. We also talk about self-acceptance, questioning messages designed to profit from insecurity, and the growing movement of women rejecting shame and embracing aging on their own terms. Because women do not lose their value with age—and better conversations create better care, challenge outdated narratives, and make space for women to be fully seen. If you have a story, thoughts and/or a topic or question for Dr. Sue and Charlie please share your ideas here:  ⁠Show suggestions [https://milsteinhealthconsulting.com/unzipping-taboos] If you want to ask Dr Sue a sex question for the weekly Q&A you can submit it here: Ask a question [https://milsteinhealthconsulting.com/heydrsue]

Women Don’t Expire: Aging, Menopause, and Cultural Myths - Part 1

In this episode of Unzipping Taboos, we unzip a topic too many women are expected to navigate without enough information: perimenopause and menopause. We break down what perimenopause and menopause actually mean, why symptoms can show up long before periods stop completely, and why this transition can feel confusing, unpredictable, and surprisingly isolating. From sleep disruption and mood changes to hot flashes, and body changes,  we talk honestly about what women may experience—and why no two journeys look exactly alike. We also discuss the importance of finding reliable health information, advocating for yourself in medical settings, and questioning outdated narratives around menopause care and treatment options like hormone replacement therapy (HRT). This conversation became bigger than one episode, so in Part 2 we’ll continue beyond the biology—into healthcare experiences, aging, body image, cultural messages about women and desirability, and why society still has work to do in how we talk about growing older. Because aging isn’t something to fear—and women deserve information, support, and honest conversations along the way. If you have a story, thoughts and/or a topic or question for Dr. Sue and Charlie please share your ideas here:  ⁠Show suggestions [https://milsteinhealthconsulting.com/unzipping-taboos] If you want to ask Dr Sue a sex question for the weekly Q&A you can submit it here: Ask a question [https://milsteinhealthconsulting.com/heydrsue]

Clarity, Not Whispers: Sexual Wellness Procedures Unzipped

In this episode, we unzip treatments like O-Shots®, G-Shots®, and MonaLisa Touch®—procedures that often enter conversations through television, social media, friends, and word of mouth. We talk about how conversations around sexual wellness are evolving, and why many people find themselves searching for answers about options they may not hear discussed during routine healthcare visits. We talk about why qualified providers, safety, and informed decision-making matter when navigating procedures that can come with a lot of questions—and not always clear answers. Because sexual health conversations deserve clarity—not whispers. If you have a story, thoughts and/or a topic or question for Dr. Sue and Charlie please share your ideas here:  ⁠Show suggestions [https://milsteinhealthconsulting.com/unzipping-taboos] If you want to ask Dr Sue a sex question for the weekly Q&A you can submit it here: Ask a question [https://milsteinhealthconsulting.com/heydrsue]

They’re Listening to You: Why Parents Matter in Sex Ed

In this episode, we unzip one of the most important—and often most avoided—roles we can play as parents and caregivers: being a trusted source of sex education. Instead of relying on awkward, one-time “talks,” we explore what it means to create an ongoing, open dialogue with kids and teens. School-based sex ed is often inconsistent or incomplete, which leaves a gap—and an opportunity—for us to step in with accurate, values-informed conversations. From understanding what’s actually being taught (and what isn’t), to using tools like the National Sex Education Standards, we walk through how to approach these moments with curiosity rather than fear or perfectionism. Not having all the answers isn’t a failure—it can be an invitation to learn with your kids. Practical strategies matter here, too. We cover ways to build trust with teens, create “safe exit” plans for uncomfortable situations, and navigate device use, privacy, and the evolving landscape of sexual health information. Remember, modeling openness and challenging shame-based narratives can shift the entire tone of these conversations. Because even if it feels uncomfortable, most kids do want to talk to us about this—they just need to know it’s safe. You can find the National Sex Education Standards here, [https://siecus.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/NSES-2020-2.pdf] just know that it will download as a .pdf  If you have a story, thoughts and/or a topic or question for Dr. Sue and Charlie please share your ideas here:  ⁠Show suggestions [https://milsteinhealthconsulting.com/unzipping-taboos] If you want to ask Dr Sue a sex question for the weekly Q&A you can submit it here: Ask a question [https://milsteinhealthconsulting.com/heydrsue]