In this podcast episode, host Estela Citrin speaks with Michelle Sampaio from Brazil about performance anxiety and erectile dysfunction. Together, they discuss how anxiety can interfere with erections by activating the body’s fight-or-flight response and making it difficult to relax and remain present during sexual activity. The conversation explores how social media, pornography, and cultural expectations around masculinity can create unrealistic ideas about sexual performance and contribute to anxiety. Michelle also explains that normal fluctuations in erections are often mistakenly viewed as erectile dysfunction and emphasizes that sexual intimacy does not need to focus solely on penetration. They discuss how psychotherapy, sexual education, and open communication between partners can help challenge negative thoughts, reduce performance pressure, and create more realistic expectations around sexuality. This episode highlights the importance of understanding the psychological and cultural factors behind performance anxiety and encourages a more relaxed, communicative, and pleasure-focused approach to sexual well-being.

In this podcast episode, host Shelly Varod speaks with Trudy Hannington from the United Kingdom about the importance of integrating medical care and psychotherapy in the treatment of sexual dysfunction. Together, they discuss why a multidisciplinary approach leads to better patient outcomes by addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of sexual health. Trudy explains how collaboration between medical professionals and sex therapists can help identify underlying medical conditions while also supporting patients with relationship concerns, performance anxiety, and emotional well-being. The conversation explores common challenges faced by men with erectile dysfunction and low libido, the role of testosterone assessment, and how medication and psychotherapy can work together to restore confidence and improve sexual function. They also discuss the importance of involving partners in treatment, addressing misconceptions about sexual medicine, and encouraging open communication within relationships. This episode highlights the value of a patient-centered, biopsychosocial approach to sexual dysfunction and offers practical insights for individuals seeking comprehensive, evidence-based care.

In this podcast episode, host Shelly Varod speaks with Estela Citrin, a gynecologist and sexual medicine specialist, about the impact of premature ejaculation on intimate relationships and partners. Together, they explore how premature ejaculation can affect a partner’s emotional well-being, sexual satisfaction, desire, and overall relationship dynamics. The discussion highlights the importance of communication, mutual understanding, and recognizing that both partners may experience distress when premature ejaculation becomes a recurring concern. Dr. Citrin also explains the role of couple-based treatment approaches, the benefits of involving partners in therapy, and how shifting the focus from performance to shared pleasure and intimacy can strengthen relationships. This episode offers valuable insights for individuals and couples seeking to better understand and address the relational effects of premature ejaculation.

In this podcast episode, host Shelly Varod speaks with Silva Neves, a psychosexual and relationship psychotherapist and trauma therapist, about the complexities of sexual consent in everyday life. Together, they explore what consent truly means, how attachment styles, trauma, shame, and self-esteem can influence a person’s ability to express boundaries, and why consent should remain an ongoing conversation throughout relationships. The discussion also examines consent in online spaces, the impact of people-pleasing behaviors, and the role of psychotherapy in helping individuals develop healthier boundaries and stronger self-awareness. Finally, Silva shares practical insights into healthy sexual negotiation and how consent can be communicated clearly, respectfully, and even playfully while fostering emotional and physical safety. This episode offers valuable perspectives on building healthier, more fulfilling intimate relationships.