Susan Bratton joins Alexandra Stockwell, MD, on the Intimate Marriage Podcast, to explore the concept of arousal, arousal differences and the art of intimate relating. They discuss the complexities of sexual and emotional fulfillment in long-term relationships, offering practical advice, and describing innovative techniques designed to reignite passion. Susan highlights the significance of recognizing the innate differences in male and female arousal patterns and addresses the negative impact societal repression has on sexual health. She introduces powerful tools such as yoni massage and making small offers to help couples cultivate a deeper, more satisfying connection. In sharing these strategies, Dr. Alexandra and Susan guide listeners on a transformative journey setting out with routine sexual experiences and arriving at ecstatic pleasure.

Also in this episode:

• Deepen your understanding of the difference between a man’s quicker arousal patterns and a woman’s need for safety as doing so is crucial for mutual satisfaction.

• A vibrant and varied sex life is possible in monogamous relationships by focusing on mutual understanding and innovative practices.

• Communication is key to evolving sexual experiences, including verbal exchange about desires and physical responses to what is happening.

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The following Intimate Marriage Podcast episodes are referenced in the episode:

1. Understanding the Complexity of Sexual Differences Between Men and Women – A deep dive into arousal differences and how understanding them can enhance intimacy. Listen Now

2. Embodied Sexuality: Connecting with Your Partner Through Satisfying Experiences – Discover how to foster a more fulfilling connection with your partner. Listen Now

Explore, connect, and transform your relationship today

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Get your copy of “Uncompromising Intimacy” by Dr. Alexandra Stockwell here: https://amzn.to/2ymI3Hl Download the first chapter of Dr Alexandra’s bestselling book, “Uncompromising Intimacy,” here:  https://www.alexandrastockwell.com/book

Cultivate your intimacy skills (without compromise) in Aligned & Hot Marriage, Dr. Alexandra’s proven method for smart couples ready to love more fully:  www.alignedhotmarriage.com

Join Dr. Alexandra’s email list to stay connected. She shares inspiring stories, her latest insights and opportunities to learn with her:  https://www.alexandrastockwell.com/subscribe

This Podcast Is Produced, Engineered & Edited By:  Simplified Impact

In this episode of the Intimate Marriage Podcast, Alexandra Stockwell, MD, explores the effects of porn addiction with a man in his twenties who became addicted in fourth grade. In a candid and revealing discussion, this anonymous guest shares the impact on his intimate relationships in adulthood. The conversation delves into the complexities of porn’s influence, highlighting initial exposure at a young age, his subsequent struggle with addiction, and the profound impact it has had on his real-life experiences with women. This conversation is remarkable because it addresses the hidden challenges many face privately, while evoking the intersection of addiction, intimacy, and personal growth. In a society where pornography is both pervasive and shrouded in secrecy and shame, this episode sheds light on its significant impact. Dr. Alexandra and her guest emphasize the importance of genuine connection and open communication for fulfillment in intimate relationships. 

Also in this episode:

• Exposure to pornography at a young age is complicated and profoundly affects perceptions of women, intimacy and relationships.

• Changes in a sexual relationship over time are natural; communication is key to adapting and maintaining intimacy.

• Open conversations about pornography, without guilt and shame, foster mutual understanding and healthier relationship dynamics.

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Website | Linkedin | Instagram

Get your copy of “Uncompromising Intimacy” by Dr. Alexandra Stockwell here: https://amzn.to/2ymI3Hl Download the first chapter of Dr Alexandra’s bestselling book, “Uncompromising Intimacy,” here:  https://www.alexandrastockwell.com/book

Cultivate your intimacy skills (without compromise) in Aligned & Hot Marriage, Dr. Alexandra’s proven method for smart couples ready to love more fully:  www.alignedhotmarriage.com

Join Dr. Alexandra’s email list to stay connected. She shares inspiring stories, her latest insights and opportunities to learn with her:  https://www.alexandrastockwell.com/subscribe

This Podcast Is Produced, Engineered & Edited By:  Simplified Impact

In this episode of the Intimate Marriage Podcast, Alexandra Stockwell, MD, dives into how intimacy coaching profoundly transforms relationships. She identifies common misconceptions prevalent in traditional counseling methods, and highlights the critical roles of authenticity and emotional connection in achieving marital success. By shifting the focus from behavior modification to fostering confidence, curiosity, and deeper connection, Dr. Alexandra gives the recipe for how educated, successful individuals can elevate their romantic lives. In the process, she outlines the significant benefits of intimacy coaching experienced by smart, high-achieving couples wanting to elevate their relationships. She describes what you can do to ignite both emotional and physical intimacy, emphasizing the importance of enjoying your relationship journey rather than simply aiming to reach a destination.

Also in this episode:

• Intimacy coaching focuses on cultivating emotional connection and authenticity, rather than prioritizing behavior modification.

• Successful individuals learn to apply their winning strategies to enhance their romantic relationships. Rather than making yourself smaller, Dr. Alexandra will teach you to build on your strengths and successes, something oddly lacking with most counseling methods.

• The Aligned and Hot Marriage Program offers universal principles adaptable to any couple looking to elevate their relationship.

Apple Podcast | YouTube | Spotify

Website | Linkedin | Instagram

Get your copy of “Uncompromising Intimacy” by Dr. Alexandra Stockwell here: https://amzn.to/2ymI3Hl Download the first chapter of Dr Alexandra’s bestselling book, “Uncompromising Intimacy,” here:  https://www.alexandrastockwell.com/book

Cultivate your intimacy skills (without compromise) in Aligned & Hot Marriage, Dr. Alexandra’s proven method for smart couples ready to love more fully:  www.alignedhotmarriage.com

Join Dr. Alexandra’s email list to stay connected. She shares inspiring stories, her latest insights and opportunities to learn with her:  https://www.alexandrastockwell.com/subscribe

This Podcast Is Produced, Engineered & Edited By:  Simplified Impact

In this episode of the Intimate Marriage Podcast, Alexandra Stockwell, MD, explores playfulness in intimacy, discussing the use of costumes and role play to re-ignite the marital spark and enrich sexual encounters. It’s an especially timely topic with Halloween around the corner. Familiar roles in the bedroom tend to limit sexual expression-breaking free from them through embodying new personas can help couples deepen their connection and discover new aspects of their personalities. 

Dr. Stockwell shares real-life examples of couples who transformed their intimacy through role play. She notes that Halloween creates the perfect occasion to strengthen emotional and physical bonds through engaging in imaginative exploration, in ways that enhance your sexual repertoire.

Also in this episode:

• Embracing playful exploration invites unexpressed aspects of one's personality into the bedroom, thus enriching the partnership.

• There is an important distinction between healthy roleplay and the misuse of power dynamics.

• Expanding self-expression is not limited to the bedroom and everyday interactions benefit as well.

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Mindfold Blindfold

Apple Podcast | YouTube | Spotify

Website | Linkedin | Instagram

Get your copy of “Uncompromising Intimacy” by Dr. Alexandra Stockwell here: https://amzn.to/2ymI3Hl Download the first chapter of Dr Alexandra’s bestselling book, “Uncompromising Intimacy,” here:  https://www.alexandrastockwell.com/book

Cultivate your intimacy skills (without compromise) in Aligned & Hot Marriage, Dr. Alexandra’s proven method for smart couples ready to love more fully:  www.alignedhotmarriage.com

Join Dr. Alexandra’s email list to stay connected. She shares inspiring stories, her latest insights and opportunities to learn with her:  https://www.alexandrastockwell.com/subscribe

This Podcast Is Produced, Engineered & Edited By:  Simplified Impact

In this episode of the Intimate Marriage Podcast, Alexandra Stockwell, MD, explores how to strengthen desire in long-term relationships by cultivating deeper intimacy and passion. She begins by highlighting the contrast between the brain regions responsible for daily functionality and those that fuel emotional and sensual connections. Dr. Alexandra explains how educated and successful individuals can transcend mere functionality in marriage to achieve both emotional and erotic fulfillment. She emphasizes the significance of non-sexual touch, sharing new experiences, and giving erotic attention to one's partner. 

Also in this episode:

• Engaging in new activities as a couple breaks routine patterns and introduces excitement and novelty, strengthening the bond. 

• Simple, affectionate touches without the expectation of sex builds intimacy and comfort, making partners feel more connected. 

• Paying focused and admiring attention to a partner significantly enhances intimacy and sexual desire.  Attending to feelings and sensations, both physical and emotional, is critical for deepening romantic connections.

Apple Podcast | YouTube | Spotify

Website | Linkedin | Instagram

Get your copy of “Uncompromising Intimacy” by Dr. Alexandra Stockwell here: https://amzn.to/2ymI3Hl Download the first chapter of Dr Alexandra’s bestselling book, “Uncompromising Intimacy,” here:  https://www.alexandrastockwell.com/book

Cultivate your intimacy skills (without compromise) in Aligned & Hot Marriage, Dr. Alexandra’s proven method for smart couples ready to love more fully:  www.alignedhotmarriage.com

Join Dr. Alexandra’s email list to stay connected. She shares inspiring stories, her latest insights and opportunities to learn with her:  https://www.alexandrastockwell.com/subscribe

This Podcast Is Produced, Engineered & Edited By:  Simplified Impact

In this episode of the Intimate Marriage Podcast, Alexandra Stockwell, MD, delves into the challenges couples face when aiming to rekindle erotic passion and shares her perspective on how to maintain a passionate, intimate relationship over the years. Dr. Alexandra addresses a listener's heartfelt question about whether it's even possible to reignite the erotic spark in a marriage, especially when young children and life's demands take center stage. She emphasizes the importance of both partners being committed to the quality of their connection and offers practical advice for couples, particularly for men, on how to revive intimacy that has waned. This includes carving out dedicated time for closeness, engaging all the senses to foster connection and excitement, and maintaining open, non-blaming communication to deepen emotional bonds.

Also in this episode:

• Both partners must be fully invested in rekindling their intimate life. If one isn't ready, it's important to address and process any grievance about that in a healthy way, which includes finding out if the other partner wants to focus on this in the future. 

• Let intimacy develop naturally through sensory engagement and emotional connection, rather than rushing into sexual activity.

• For a deeper connection, engage all five senses—sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch. Set aside regular, dedicated time for intimacy, free from daily distractions, to focus entirely on one another.

• Honest, non-blaming conversations about needs and desires are key to understanding each other and reigniting the passion in your relationship. This helps create a safe space for emotional and physical closeness.

Mindfold Blindfolds:  https://amzn.to/3cUUiib

Apple Podcast | YouTube | Spotify

Website | Linkedin | Instagram

Get your copy of “Uncompromising Intimacy” by Dr. Alexandra Stockwell here: https://amzn.to/2ymI3Hl Download the first chapter of Dr Alexandra’s bestselling book, “Uncompromising Intimacy,” here:  https://www.alexandrastockwell.com/book

Cultivate your intimacy skills (without compromise) in Aligned & Hot Marriage, Dr. Alexandra’s proven method for smart couples ready to love more fully:  www.alignedhotmarriage.com

Join Dr. Alexandra’s email list to stay connected. She shares inspiring stories, her latest insights and opportunities to learn with her:  https://www.alexandrastockwell.com/subscribe

This Podcast Is Produced, Engineered & Edited By:  Simplified Impact

In this episode of the Intimate Marriage Podcast, Alexandra Stockwell, MD, explores the impact of multitasking drains the depth and efficiency of work and she dives into how this shows up in marital interactions. She discusses the importance of giving undivided attention in communication and the profound impact it has on resolving conflicts and deepening connection. Dr Alexandra offers listeners concrete steps to enhance their connection and intimacy by avoiding the pitfalls of multitasking and opting for more successful strategies while in conversation.

Tune in to learn how compartmentalizing perspectives and fostering genuine curiosity can break through a relational impasse, thus paving the way for uncompromising intimacy. 

Also in this episode: 

• Multitasking during conversations with your spouse diminishes the quality and efficiency of interactions, just as it does in professional settings.
• Giving full attention to one’s partner's perspective before responding leads to enhanced understanding and deeper connection.
• Feeling seen and heard is crucial for resolving conflicts and reconnecting emotionally.

For more on Uncompromising Intimacy:

https://www.alexandrastockwell.com/uncompromising-intimacy-2/

Apple Podcast | YouTube | Spotify

Website | Linkedin | Instagram

Get your copy of “Uncompromising Intimacy” by Dr. Alexandra Stockwell here: https://amzn.to/2ymI3Hl Download the first chapter of Dr Alexandra’s bestselling book, “Uncompromising Intimacy,” here:  https://www.alexandrastockwell.com/book

Cultivate your intimacy skills (without compromise) in Aligned & Hot Marriage, Dr. Alexandra’s proven method for smart couples ready to love more fully:  www.alignedhotmarriage.com

Join Dr. Alexandra’s email list to stay connected. She shares inspiring stories, her latest insights and opportunities to learn with her:  https://www.alexandrastockwell.com/subscribe

This Podcast Is Produced, Engineered & Edited By:  Simplified Impact

In this episode of the Intimate Marriage Podcast, Dr. Alexandra Stockwell, MD, explores the hidden addictions of high performers with guest Roland Cochrun, focusing on the complex issue of sex and porn addiction and how it plays out in the lives of highly successful individuals. Dr. Alexandra sets the stage for a profound discussion on addiction, recovery, and sustaining fulfilling relationships. Roland shares his personal journey and the innovative strategies he has developed to support high achievers in overcoming sex and porn addictions. Together, they articulate the multifaceted nature of these addictions, highlighting the differences between substance addictions and process addictions. Roland sheds light on how societal norms and masculine stereotypes contribute to the development of addictive behaviors, and underscores the importance of tailored recovery pathways for high-performing individuals.

Also in this episode:

• Discussion on how societal expectations and masculine norms influence and perpetuate addictive behaviors.

• The importance of creating recovery programs that cater specifically to the lifestyles and needs of high achievers.

• The successful outcomes of high achievers who commit to recovery and the significant improvements they experience in their relationships.

About the Guest:

Roland Cochrun is the founder of The Successful Addict, a specialized sex and porn addiction recovery program tailored for high achievers and entrepreneurs. Recognizing the crucial role of human connection in recovery, Roland established a mastermind-style group that brings together like-minded men on their journey to overcome addiction. His program offers a deeply connected support network, featuring weekly calls, daily accountability, and transformative 4-day in-person retreats. With a focus on finding your tribe, Roland’s approach empowers high achievers and entrepreneurs to achieve long-term recovery and reclaim their lives. If you are a high performer seeking a supportive community and a path to sustained recovery, The Successful Addict is the group for you - https://successfuladdict.com

Apple Podcast | YouTube | Spotify

Website | Linkedin | Instagram

Get your copy of “Uncompromising Intimacy” by Dr. Alexandra Stockwell here: https://amzn.to/2ymI3Hl Download the first chapter of Dr Alexandra’s bestselling book, “Uncompromising Intimacy,” here:  https://www.alexandrastockwell.com/book

Cultivate your intimacy skills (without compromise) in Aligned & Hot Marriage, Dr. Alexandra’s proven method for smart couples ready to love more fully:  www.alignedhotmarriage.com

Join Dr. Alexandra’s email list to stay connected. She shares inspiring stories, her latest insights and opportunities to learn with her:  https://www.alexandrastockwell.com/subscribe

This Podcast Is Produced, Engineered & Edited By:  Simplified Impact

In this episode of the Intimate Marriage Podcast, Dr. Alexandra Stockwell, MD, addresses politically polarized marriages, offering perspectives and strategies for navigating political disagreements with your spouse, especially during the 2024 presidential election. She shares insights from her own experiences in her family, and times spent living in rural Kansas in a community with members holding different political, religious, and educational values than her own. Dr. Alexandra emphasizes prioritizing connection over content as she shows couples how to maintain intimacy and respect even when they support different political parties. 

This episode provides practical advice for couples facing major differences in opinions whether it’s in a politically polarized marriage or on other issues, and offers guidance on how to leverage your differences in order to build a stronger, more connected relationship.

Also in this episode:

• Learn strategies for maintaining a respectful and loving marriage despite political disagreements.

• Focus on the foundation of your relationship by appreciating differences and aim to deeply understand each other rather than trying to change one another’s viewpoints.

• Engage in structured conversations about political viewpoints with set start and end times, and avoid discussions when emotions are high.

Discover the keys to a deeply fulfilling relationship with Dr. Alexandra Stockwell's audio course, "The Surprising Secret to Having a Fantastic Relationship." In this transformative guide, Dr. Alexandra shares actionable insights and practical tips on how to build intimacy, improve communication, and connect more deeply with your partner. – https://www.alexandrastockwell.com/secret/

Apple Podcast | YouTube | Spotify

Website | Linkedin | Instagram

Get your copy of “Uncompromising Intimacy” by Dr. Alexandra Stockwell here: https://amzn.to/2ymI3Hl Download the first chapter of Dr Alexandra’s bestselling book, “Uncompromising Intimacy,” here:  https://www.alexandrastockwell.com/book

Cultivate your intimacy skills (without compromise) in Aligned & Hot Marriage, Dr. Alexandra’s proven method for smart couples ready to love more fully:  www.alignedhotmarriage.com

Join Dr. Alexandra’s email list to stay connected. She shares inspiring stories, her latest insights and opportunities to learn with her:  https://www.alexandrastockwell.com/subscribe

This Podcast Is Produced, Engineered & Edited By:  Simplified Impact

In this episode of the Intimate Marriage Podcast, Dr. Alexandra Stockwell, MD and Erica Bove, MD discuss the concept of sensual awakening. Together, they explore the complexities of balancing a high-powered professional life with the emotional demands of romantic relationships, emphasizing nurturing connection despite hectic schedules and times apart. This episode provides a variety of practical strategies to help couples preserve intimacy and passion, even in the face of busyness and other common challenges. 

Also in this episode:

• Strategies and perspectives on keeping romance alive with professional responsibilities and physical distance.

• Introducing the Rose, Bud, Thorn exercise and the importance of matching communication styles to avoid misunderstandings.

• Practical ways to pivot from feeling obligated in daily check-ins to making them meaningful and connective.

• Techniques to awaken sensuality and presence despite a very busy schedule.

• Understanding that the pace of a relationship doesn't need to fit a predefined timeline; it’s best to trust the organic progression.

Get Dr. Alexandra’s Guide to free guide to relationship check-ins NOW! https://alexandrastockwell.com/checkins

About the Guest:

Erica Bove, MD, is a double board certified OB-GYN and Reproductive Endocrinologist (REI) physician at the University of Vermont, as well as a certified life coach through The Life Coach School. She is also the founder of Love and Science: Thriving Through Infertility. She has a keen interest in marrying an evidence-based approach with intuitive knowing in the context of a trusting relationship. She empowers professional women to build their families with confidence and self compassion. Her mission is to heal and support the healers and to create a legacy she is proud of. If you're curious: Undergrad: University of Notre Dame Med school: University of Vermont Residency: New York Presbyterian Hospital-Columbia Fellowship: University of Michigan.

Linked In: www.linkedin.com/in/erica-bove-0701a0173 

IG: https://www.instagram.com/loveandsciencefertility/ 

FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553692167183 

Website: loveandsciencefertility.com

Apple Podcast | YouTube | Spotify

Website | Linkedin | Instagram

Get your copy of “Uncompromising Intimacy” by Dr. Alexandra Stockwell here: https://amzn.to/2ymI3Hl Download the first chapter of Dr Alexandra’s bestselling book, “Uncompromising Intimacy,” here:  https://www.alexandrastockwell.com/book

Cultivate your intimacy skills (without compromise) in Aligned & Hot Marriage, Dr. Alexandra’s proven method for smart couples ready to love more fully:  www.alignedhotmarriage.com

Join Dr. Alexandra’s email list to stay connected. She shares inspiring stories, her latest insights and opportunities to learn with her:  https://www.alexandrastockwell.com/subscribe

This Podcast Is Produced, Engineered & Edited By:  Simplified Impact

In this episode of the Intimate Marriage Podcast, Dr. Alexandra Stockwell, MD discusses how to reimagine date nights. She challenges conventional thinking and advocates for more intentional, meaningful relationship-building activities. This must-listen episode is perfect for any couple eager to strengthen their bond beyond routine and uninspired outings. Dr. Alexandra critiques the overly simplistic view of date nights as a magic cure-all for relationship woes and offers invaluable advice for couples at every stage—whether they’re struggling to find time for each other or looking to elevate an already strong relationship. She encourages couples to tailor their quality time to suit their unique needs, whether it’s through shared adventures, intimate conversations, or even taking naps together.

Also in this episode:

• Traditional date nights are not a cure-all and need to be intentional and customized to benefit the relationship.

• Focus on meaningful interactions rather than simply spending time together if you want to cultivate emotional and sensual intimacy.

• Discover activities that bring joy and connection, like learning new skills together, engaging in heartfelt conversations, or even spending quiet, restful time in each other's company.

• Reserve date nights for enriching dialogues and avoid logistics and other routine discussions.

Transform Your Relationship with the Aligned and Hot Marriage Program! https://www.stockwellinstitute.com/offers/t9F8NfEe/checkout Use Coupon Code PODCAST99

Apple Podcast | YouTube | Spotify

Website | Linkedin | Instagram

Get your copy of “Uncompromising Intimacy” by Dr. Alexandra Stockwell here: https://amzn.to/2ymI3Hl Download the first chapter of Dr Alexandra’s bestselling book, “Uncompromising Intimacy,” here:  https://www.alexandrastockwell.com/book

Cultivate your intimacy skills (without compromise) in Aligned & Hot Marriage, Dr. Alexandra’s proven method for smart couples ready to love more fully:  www.alignedhotmarriage.com

Join Dr. Alexandra’s email list to stay connected. She shares inspiring stories, her latest insights and opportunities to learn with her:  https://www.alexandrastockwell.com/subscribe

This Podcast Is Produced, Engineered & Edited By:  Simplified Impact