Charting Toward Intimacy | Expanding the Natural Family Planning Conversation from a Catholic Perspective: Recent Episodes
Ellen Holloway
Help us expand the Natural Family Planning conversation! With new episodes launching every other Monday, expect real conversations about Natural Family Planning with host Ellen Holloway. Episode topics range from interviews with couples and individuals using NFP to deeper more theological discussions on the concept of Natural Family Planning and the Catholic Church. So, grab your spouse, your fiancé, or your best friend and help us expand the Natural Family Planning Conversation. Charting Toward Intimacy is sponsored by the Diocese of Oakland, California
Ready to increase your desire and experience pleasure? Join the next round of Want it and Enjoy it
In this episode of Reclaiming Catholic Intimacy, Ellen Holloway talks about why so many women struggle to receive, not just in sex, but in everyday life too. She shares how learning to accept compliments, your husband's desire, and even pleasure can completely change the way you experience intimacy in marriage.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
❤ Ready to increase your desire and experience pleasure? Join the next round of Want it and Enjoy it
In this episode of Reclaiming Catholic Intimacy, Ellen Holloway and Kathleen Chovanes talk about why simple questions like "What can I do to help?" can feel completely overwhelming when your mental load is already maxed out. They share a surprisingly practical brain hack that makes those moments so much easier, plus why changing the way you respond can protect your peace, your marriage, and your intimacy.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
Want it and Enjoy it is open for enrollment through July 31, 2026.
You've gotta join: reaclaimingcatholicintimacy.com/wantandenjoy
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
Want it and Enjoy it is open for enrollment through July 31, 2026.
You've gotta join: reaclaimingcatholicintimacy.com/wantandenjoy
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
Want it and Enjoy it is open for enrollment through July 31, 2026.
You've gotta join: reaclaimingcatholicintimacy.com/wantandenjoy
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
In this episode of Reclaiming Catholic Intimacy, Ellen Holloway talks about the biggest fear women have before joining Want It And Enjoy It: "What if it doesn't work for me?" She shares honest words from women who had those same doubts and explains why believing change is possible is often the first step toward finally enjoying sex and finding hope again.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
Join the next round of Want it and Enjoy it right here!
Want it and Enjoy it is open for enrollment July 20, 2026 - July 31, 2026 for the next round. If you have questions about the program and what is included, this is the episode for you.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
Ready to increase your desire and experience pleasure? Join the next round of Want it and Enjoy it
In this episode of Reclaiming Catholic Intimacy, Ellen Holloway talks about why improving your sex life isn't just about having better sex. She shares how growing in desire and enjoying sex more can actually help you better understand God's love and become a more complete gift to your husband.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
Ready to increase your desire and experience pleasure? Join the next round of Want it and Enjoy it
In this episode of Reclaiming Catholic Intimacy, Ellen Holloway and Kathleen Chovanes talk about one of the biggest questions couples ask: how often should we be having sex? Instead of chasing someone else's numbers, they share why the better conversation is about feeling loved, communicating honestly, and finding a rhythm that fits your marriage, your season of life, and even your NFP journey.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
In this episode of Reclaiming Catholic Intimacy, Ellen Holloway talks about why sex can feel so exciting before marriage but lose its appeal afterward, especially for couples who had sex before they were married. She explains how our understanding of sex can get twisted and shares why there is always hope for healing through prayer, honesty, and letting God restore the true meaning of intimacy.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
In this episode of Reclaiming Catholic Intimacy, Ellen Holloway and Kathleen Chovanes talk about how to help your kids grow up with a healthy view of sex without repeating the fear or shame so many of us learned. They share simple, everyday ways to answer questions, talk about changing bodies, and create a home where sex is seen as a good gift from God.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it
In this episode of Reclaiming Catholic Intimacy, Ellen Holloway shares why she stopped selling her popular Catholic Sex Positions Guide, even though it was a huge success. She talks about why most women don't need another tip or technique and what actually creates lasting change in your sex life.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
In this episode of Reclaiming Catholic Intimacy, Ellen Holloway and Kathleen Chovanes talk about Father's Day, why so many husbands desire intimacy on special days, and how to approach that desire as a gift instead of an obligation. They also share ideas for couples who can't have sex right now, including ways to build emotional and physical intimacy that still help your husband feel loved and prioritized.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
In this episode of Reclaiming Catholic Intimacy, Ellen Holloway talks about why your sex life in marriage actually matters way more than most women think it does. She shares how God completely changed the way she saw intimacy and explains why learning to enjoy sex with your husband is deeply connected to your vocation and your relationship with God.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
In this episode of Reclaiming Catholic Intimacy, Ellen Holloway talks about what to do when sexual arousal shows up at the “wrong” time and why you do not need to panic or shame yourself for it. She shares such a gentle way to think about arousal instead of stuffing it down, especially if purity culture made you feel like sexual feelings were bad.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
In this episode of Reclaiming Catholic Intimacy, Ellen Holloway and Kathleen Chovanes talk about why initiation can feel so awkward, frustrating, or even hurtful in marriage and the simple things that make it so much easier. They get really practical about responsive desire, how to actually communicate what kind of initiation you like, and why saying yes does not have to mean sprinting straight to the bedroom.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
In this episode of Reclaiming Catholic Intimacy, Ellen Holloway talks about why foreplay can feel totally numb when your brain is still carrying the stress and mental load of the whole day. She shares this really helpful “parka” analogy about trying to jump into sex while still weighed down by your to do list, distractions, and exhaustion, and how preparing your mind before sex can completely change the experience.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
What can a beloved children's cartoon teach you about your sex life? More than you'd think. In this episode, Ellen Holloway draws unexpected wisdom from the hit show Bluey to reveal how just a few intentional minutes of connection each day can transform your marriage and your intimacy. If you've been waiting for a complicated fix, this episode will surprise you.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
In this episode of Reclaiming Catholic Intimacy, Ellen Holloway and Kathleen Chovanes talk about talking during sex and how it helps you stay present and connected. They explain what kinds of words support the dignity of the act, why “dirty talk” can be harmful especially after purity culture, and how to approach pillow talk in a way that builds intimacy.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
Sign up for Want it and Enjoy it right here!
Enrollment is open through May 1.
In this bonus episode, Ellen shares some responses from women in the most recent cohort of Want it and Enjoy it. There are wins, things they loved about the course, and encouragement for women trying to decide if they want to join the program.
Take a listen to this episode if you are on the fence about joining.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
Sign up for Want it and Enjoy it right here! Enrollment is open through May 1 at 11:59 pm PT
In this episode of Reclaiming Catholic Intimacy, Ellen Holloway talks about why a “fine” sex life is actually keeping you stuck and slowly disconnecting you from your husband. She challenges all those thoughts like “this is just how it is” and explains why desire, pleasure, and excitement are things you can actually build. It might make you rethink what you’ve been calling “fine.”
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
Download your free copy of What the Church Actually Says About Sex and Marriage right here
In this episode of Reclaiming Catholic Intimacy, Ellen Holloway and Kathleen Chovanes talk about a hard truth most of us don’t want to hear: your sex life isn’t going to magically fix itself. They share why waiting for a different “season of life,” blaming your husband, or blaming hormones usually keeps you stuck. If things aren’t where you want them, this episode is a loving but honest push to take responsibility, make some changes, and start doing the work that actually makes sex better.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
Download your free copy of What the Church Actually Says About Sex and Marriage right here
In this episode of Reclaiming Catholic Intimacy, Ellen Holloway talks about what to do when you and your husband want sex at totally different levels. She explains why desire often comes from how rewarding sex feels and why many women struggle to want it if it hasn’t been very enjoyable. Ellen also shares simple ideas like building an intimacy “menu” and scheduling connection time so you can grow closer without all the pressure around sex.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
Download your free copy of What the Church Actually Says About Sex and Marriage right here
In this episode of Reclaiming Catholic Intimacy, Ellen Holloway shares what it was like six months into her marriage when she honestly thought she might never like sex and could live without it. She talks about the purity culture messages that made sex feel bad and dirty, and the slow journey that helped her see it as something good, holy, and actually enjoyable. If you’ve ever wondered “what if I just never like sex,” this episode will feel very familiar and really hopeful.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
Download your free copy of What the Church Actually Says About Sex and Marriage right here
In this episode Ellen Holloway explains the concept of “spectatoring,” the mental habit of monitoring yourself during sex instead of being present in the experience. She explores why this is so common among women, including influences like purity culture, performance pressure, body image concerns, and anxiety about doing sex “correctly.” Ellen also shares practical tools to interrupt spectatoring, including sensory grounding techniques and mindset shifts that help you stay present with your husband.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
Download your free copy of What the Church Actually Says About Sex and Marriage right here
In this episode of Reclaiming Catholic Intimacy, Ellen Holloway and Kathleen Chovanes talk about what purity culture actually got right and where it really hurt us. They share how all those fear-based messages about sex can stick with you into marriage and make it hard to relax and actually enjoy intimacy. Honestly, it’s one of those episodes where you’re like, oh…that’s why this still feels weird for me.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
Download your free copy of What the Church Actually Says About Sex and Marriage right here
In this episode of Charting Toward Intimacy, Ellen Holloway explains the difference between spontaneous desire and responsive desire and why misunderstanding these patterns often causes frustration in marriage. She walks through simple questions that help women identify their primary desire style and explains why many wives struggle when they wait to feel “in the mood” before engaging. Ellen also shares how responsive desire actually grows in the right context and how shifting one key question during initiation can transform a couple’s sexual connection. This episode helps Catholic wives better understand their desire and approach intimacy with greater confidence and freedom.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
In this episode of Charting Toward Intimacy, Ellen Holloway and Kathleen Chovanes discuss the impact of romance novels, story based erotica, and popular television dramas on female arousal and marital intimacy. They explain how anticipation and imagination shape women’s desire, and why directing those dynamics toward fictional characters can undermine connection with your husband. The conversation explores the concept of emotional pornography, the differences between male and female arousal patterns, and practical ways to cultivate healthy sexual anticipation within marriage.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
In this episode of Charting Toward Intimacy, Ellen Holloway discusses the connection between sleep and sexual desire for women. She explains how chronic exhaustion puts the body into survival mode, lowering both libido and enjoyment of sex, and why pushing through fatigue often backfires. Ellen offers practical guidance on how much sleep women truly need, especially during pregnancy and postpartum, and how to reprioritize responsibilities to support a healthier sex life.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
Welcome to Reclaiming Catholic Intimacy, the podcast for Catholic women that helps you improve your sex life, strengthen your marriage, and embrace God's design for love.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
In this episode of Charting Toward Intimacy, Ellen Holloway and Kathleen Chovanes challenge the belief that husbands should always be the pursuers in marriage and explain why wives are also called to pursue. They discuss the spiritual roots of this dynamic, the fear of rejection that can hold women back, and the resentment that often keeps intimacy stalled.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
In this episode of Charting Toward Intimacy, Ellen Holloway explores how to prevent scheduled sex from turning into checkbox sex. She breaks down the real reason scheduled intimacy can start to feel like a burden and teaches you how to rewire your mindset so that sex becomes something you joyfully anticipate. Using relatable analogies and spiritual reflection, Ellen offers practical tools to bring excitement, connection, and intentionality back into your intimate life.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
In this episode of Charting Toward Intimacy, Ellen Holloway and Kathleen Chovanes explore the deep and often hidden impact of resentment in marriage. They discuss how unspoken feelings of unfairness and unmet expectations can slowly erode intimacy, especially in the bedroom. Through personal stories and spiritual insights, they reveal how resentment may be the true barrier to connection, not libido or effort. You’ll learn practical ways to root it out, start healing, and truly love both yourself and your spouse.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
In this episode of Charting Toward Intimacy, Ellen Holloway unpacks the moral and theological considerations of stopping sex due to pain. She explains why halting the act isn’t sinful when the intention was to complete it, and emphasizes the importance of addressing the root causes of painful sex. Ellen also discusses the pain-fear-tension cycle, the potential consequences of delaying a stop, and how healing involves both pelvic floor therapy and mindset work.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
In this episode of Charting Toward Intimacy, Ellen Holloway and Kathleen Chovanes unpack the spiritual battle at the heart of intimacy, the impact of Satan’s lies on couples striving for holiness, and why struggle may actually signal sanctity. The conversation includes practical encouragement, spiritual tools like the St. Michael Prayer, and the importance of inviting God into every part of your marriage.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
Join us in Want it and Enjoy it an 8 week group coaching program for Catholic women to reignite desire, pleasure, and joyful sex. Can't wait to see you inside!
In this episode of Charting Toward Intimacy, Ellen Holloway explores why simply learning about intimacy doesn't automatically lead to change in your sex life. She explains how desire and pleasure are rooted in the nervous system, why emotional safety is essential, and how true transformation requires more than just information. Ellen also shares how her eight-week coaching program, Want It and Enjoy It, provides the supportive container needed to create lasting change.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
Join our email list and be the first to know about the new coaching program launching January 19, 2026.
In this episode of Charting Toward Intimacy, Ellen Holloway addresses the common feeling of wanting to enjoy sex but not knowing how. She explores the physical, emotional, and mental roadblocks that prevent pleasure, from lack of arousal to Catholic guilt around desire. Ellen explains why pleasure is part of God’s design and not a selfish pursuit, and she offers practical steps to begin enjoying sex, including the importance of body literacy and emotional connection.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
Make sure you're on our email list to be notified when the new program is available!
In this episode of Charting Toward Intimacy, Ellen Holloway addresses one of the most common struggles Catholic wives face: not wanting sex. She explains the five most common desire blocks and how to identify which one may be affecting you. Ellen also teaches the three foundational pillars that create real, lasting sexual desire. If you've been stuck in cycles of obligation or shame, this episode offers a clear path toward healing and rediscovering sexual desire in your marriage.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
In this episode of Charting Toward Intimacy, Ellen Holloway and Kathleen Chovanes to explore the overwhelming experience of feeling "touched out." They dive into why this sensation happens, why husbands often don’t understand it, and how to clearly communicate your needs without causing disconnection. Practical tools like grounding techniques, body-awareness exercises, and the “10-minute unwind” are shared to help you shift from sensory overload to sexual readiness.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
In this episode of Charting Toward Intimacy, Ellen Holloway unpacks how disappointment can sabotage your sex life. She explores why unmet expectations, like not receiving the Christmas gift you hoped for, often lead to resentment and sexual withdrawal. Ellen offers practical mindset shifts and clear communication strategies to help you avoid turning sex into a transactional exchange. This episode equips you to protect intimacy in your marriage and show up fully, even when things don't go as planned.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
Please rate and review Charting Toward Intimacy on Apple Podcasts or Spotify!
In this episode of Charting Toward Intimacy, Ellen Holloway and Kathleen Chovanes explore the common belief that NFP is the problem in Catholic marriages. They share personal experiences and discuss how the true issue is often a lack of non-sexual intimacy. The conversation offers practical tools for cultivating emotional closeness and connection outside the bedroom, helping couples reconnect and feel united, even during seasons of abstinence.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
Please take a moment to rate and review Charting Toward Intimacy! It helps other women find the podcast and transform their marriages.
In this episode of Charting Toward Intimacy, Ellen Holloway explores the Feast of the Immaculate Conception through a powerful and rarely considered lens: the sanctity of the sexual union that conceived Mary. She reflects on how Anne and Joachim’s openness to grace reveals God's profound affirmation of the dignity of sex within marriage.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
Please rate and review Charting Toward Intimacy! It helps other women find the podcast and benefit from it!
In this episode of Charting Toward Intimacy, Ellen Holloway dives into the damaging expectation that your husband should be able to read your mind (especially when it comes to emotional and sexual needs). She explores why this belief undermines true intimacy and reframes what genuine, loving actions look like in marriage. Ellen breaks down the importance of asking clearly for what you want, and how your husband's choice to respond, even reluctantly, can still be deeply loving.
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Ready to stop avoiding sex and actually enjoy it? Join the waitlist for Want it and Enjoy it now and join the next round!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/ellenholloway_/ or email us at info@vinesinfullbloom.com
Last chance to get courses at Vines in Full Bloom. These will no longer be for sale after November 30, 2025
In this episode of Charting Toward Intimacy, Ellen Holloway and Kathleen Chovanes explore the difference between eroticism and holy sex, drawing insights from Dr. Gregory Popcak's book Holy Sex. They discuss how purity culture, shame, and cultural misconceptions distort our understanding of sexual pleasure and God's design. This conversation unpacks what it means to embrace your full self in the bedroom, how arousal and intimacy work together, and why holy sex actually grows more joyful over time.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Vines in Full Bloom Courses right here!
In this episode of Charting Toward Intimacy, Ellen Holloway dives into the struggle of making time for sex in the midst of a packed, modern-day schedule. She challenges the cultural norm of constant busyness and offers a clear, practical strategy for prioritizing intimacy. Ellen explains why spontaneity might be sabotaging your sex life and how intentional prioritizing can reignite desire and connection in marriage.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Get the Catholic Sex Positions Guide right here!
So many Catholic women secretly struggle with body image, but few realize how deeply it’s sabotaging their desire for intimacy. In this episode, Ellen and Kathleen unpack how negative thoughts about your body directly impact your sex life, why losing weight doesn’t automatically fix body image issues, and how to begin healing your mindset so you can show up more confidently and joyfully in the bedroom. They talk about the spiritual side of body image, how the devil uses self-hatred to divide marriages, and practical ways to rebuild trust—in God, your husband, and yourself.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
When sex is completely off the table and there’s no end in sight, it can leave you feeling isolated, frustrated, and unsure of what God is doing in your marriage. In this episode of Charting Toward Intimacy, Ellen Holloway helps you understand how long term abstinence, whether from a high risk pregnancy, illness, or painful sex, can become an unexpected path to deeper connection. Learn how to find peace in God’s plan, grow closer to your husband without physical intimacy, and hold onto hope even in the midst of suffering.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Get the positions guide and try a new position tonight!
You’re married now, so why do you still feel guilty wearing that flattering dress? In this episode, Ellen and Kathleen talk about what modesty really looks like after marriage, how purity culture messages can linger, and why your wardrobe might be quietly affecting your confidence and intimacy. We’re diving into how to find the virtuous middle ground, dress the body you have right now, and embrace your beauty as part of God’s design for love and marriage.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
grab the Orgasm Course for Catholic Women right here
In this episode, Ellen Holloway talks about why so many Catholic women struggle with sexual desire and what to do about it. She explains the difference between spontaneous and responsive desire and how understanding this can transform your experience of intimacy in marriage. You’ll learn practical ways to cultivate openness to arousal, strengthen emotional and spiritual intimacy, and align your approach to sex with Catholic teaching. This conversation helps Catholic wives embrace sexuality as a source of joy, unity, and holiness within marriage.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
grab the Catholic Sex Positions guide here!
Sex is messy, and that is completely normal. In this episode of Charting Toward Intimacy, Ellen Holloway and co-host Kathleen Chovanes get super practical about what to do after sex. From preventing UTIs, managing the inevitable drips, protecting your sheets, and handling lube cleanup, you will get down-to-earth tips to make post-sex cleanup less stressful. Whether you are a newlywed or have been married for years, this episode will help you feel more confident, prepared, and at peace with the mess that comes with intimacy.
Waterproof blanket on Amazon!
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Check out the Orgasm Course for Catholic women right here!
In this episode, Ellen Holloway explores what to do when intimacy is interrupted and sex gets derailed by everyday distractions like kids, pets, or sudden discomfort. She shares practical mindset strategies Catholic wives can use to manage intrusive thoughts, refocus their desire, and re-engage with their husbands. This episode provides clear guidance on strengthening intimacy, prioritizing your marriage, and approaching Catholic sex with intentionality even when the mood is broken.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Get the Orgasm Course for Catholic Women right here!
In this episode of Charting Toward Intimacy, Ellen Holloway explores the concept of edging, a technique that can enhance pleasure, comfort, and unity in your sex life. She explains how edging works, its benefits for those seeking to extend intimacy or synchronize climaxes, and how it can help make sex more enjoyable and comfortable, especially for women who experience discomfort or have not yet reached orgasm. Ellen also discusses important cautions, particularly for men, to ensure the practice aligns with Catholic teachings on sexuality.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Get the Catholic Sex Positions Guide right here!
In this episode of Charting Toward Intimacy, Ellen and Kathleen explore the question: "What is the male equivalent of flowers?" They discuss the importance of pursuing your husband with small, thoughtful gestures that make him feel seen and loved, even if those gestures look different from traditional gifts like flowers. The conversation covers why flowers are meaningful to women, how men may appreciate simple things like snacks or a favorite meal, and the value of intentionality in marriage.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Check out the Orgasm Course for Catholic Women right here!
In this episode, Ellen Holloway addresses the often confusing topic of female orgasm within Catholic teaching. She clarifies what is morally permissible, explains the importance of female pleasure in the context of marriage, and dispels common myths rooted in purity culture. Listeners will learn when and how female orgasm fits into the marital act, why it matters, and how both spouses can work together to foster unity and enjoyment. If you’ve ever wondered about the boundaries or significance of female orgasm, this episode offers clear, compassionate guidance.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Grab the Catholic Sex Positions Guide right here!
In this episode, Ellen and Kathleen discuss the real-life challenges of fertility decisions and what it means to be "open to life" from a Catholic perspective, emphasizing that openness is a posture of the heart rather than a checklist of actions, and encouraging listeners to seek God’s will through prayer, discernment, and honest conversation with their spouse, trusting that peace and clarity will come in many forms—whether through family, marriage, or deeper faith.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Stop dreading sex and take steps to get in the mood with the Getting in The Mood Guide right here!
In this episode of Ellen Holloway breaks down the myth that arousal just happens on its own. She explains why arousal is an active process and shares practical strategies for inviting desire and enjoying intimacy more fully. Ellen discusses the importance of mindset, environment, and intentional actions in cultivating arousal, and encourages listeners to take positive steps to strengthen their marriages.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Check out the Catholic Positions Guide right here!
Here's all the things you and your husband should figure out with sex so that it's amazing and you can avoid disagreements and dissatisfaction.
Click Here to download a PDF of the questions we shared on the episode!
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Give me one hour and you'll learn how to orgasm
In this episode, Ellen addresses the common concern of needing to focus on yourself to orgasm and reassures listeners that doing so is not selfish, but rather an essential part of the mutual self-gift in marriage—emphasizing that vulnerability, presence, and receiving pleasure are key to deepening intimacy and unity with your spouse.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Grab the Catholic Sex Positions Guide right here and try a new position tonight!
In this episode, Ellen and Kathleen discuss the topic of transactional sex within marriages. They share personal stories, emphasize the importance of non-transactional intimacy, and provide actionable steps to address and resolve feelings of transactional sex. From scheduling sex to understanding each other's love languages, this episode equips couples with practical advice to foster a healthy, loving sexual relationship.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Grab the Catholic Sex Positions Guide right here!
If you’ve ever felt unseen or pressured when your husband asks about sex, this episode is for you. You’ll learn how to shift your mindset, communicate your needs with confidence, and invite more intimacy and understanding into your marriage. Walk away feeling empowered, cherished, and ready to enjoy deeper connection with your spouse.
Need more support? Check our courses linked below
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Check out the Orgasm Course for Catholic Women
Go to listen to episode 224 first, our intro to the Temperaments and Sex Life topic!
In this episode, Ellen and Kathleen break down how each temperament pairing can affect intimacy and communication in marriage. They discuss the unique challenges and strengths of every combination, offering practical tips for understanding your spouse and building a stronger relationship.
Temperament Pairings & Timestamps:
- Choleric + Choleric — 5:52
- Choleric + Sanguine — 9:43
- Choleric + Melancholic — 13:31
- Choleric + Phlegmatic — 20:40
- Sanguine + Sanguine — 26:14
- Sanguine + Melancholic — 29:10
- Sanguine + Phlegmatic — 34:28
- Melancholic + Melancholic — 37:42
- Melancholic + Phlegmatic — 41:32
- Phlegmatic + Phlegmatic — 45:09
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Just one position can change everything. Get the Catholic Sex Positions Guide right here!
In this episode, Ellen shares a personal story from her third pregnancy, when the usual routines in the bedroom no longer worked. Instead of resigning herself to months of less enjoyable intimacy, she and her husband decided to try new positions—leading to a surprising transformation in their sex life.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Orgasm Course for Catholic Women is right here!
In this episode, Ellen discusses the Catholic Church's teaching on the necessity of male ejaculation inside the vagina, even in cases of infertility, menopause, or pregnancy. She explains the deep theology and symbolism behind this teaching, emphasizing that sex is not just a physical act but a sacramental sign of total self-gift. Ellen explores how sex maintains its meaning and integrity by following God's design, reflecting on the body's language in Theology of the Body. Key references include Catechism 2366 and 2367 and Humanae Vitae.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Find out the 100% Catholic Way to orgasm right here!
In this episode, Ellen and Kathleen discuss how everyday habits affect brain chemistry, focusing on hormones like dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and cortisol. They explore the negative impacts of dopamine and cortisol on relationships, especially marriage and intimacy, and offer practical strategies for reducing excessive phone use and avoiding quick dopamine hits. They emphasize the importance of deep connection and long-term bonding for overall well-being and spiritual health.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Learn how to overcome your mind drama to finally reach Orgasm
In this episode, Ellen guides listeners through a powerful mental exercise to help envision and step into the version of themselves with the amazing sex life they desire. She emphasizes that the gap between your current self and your "future you" is often smaller than you think—it's all about shifting your thoughts and beliefs.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this episode, Ellen and Kathleen discuss why the Catholic Church opposes permanent sterilization methods such as vasectomies and tubal ligation. They explore deeper meanings behind the church’s teachings, the natural design and purpose of sex, and the importance of trust and intimacy in marriage. The episode also addresses medical concerns and distinctions between direct and indirect sterilization while emphasizing the moral and spiritual implications of these decisions.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Check out the Orgasm Course fort Catholic Women
In this episode, Ellen discusses the concept of 'spectator mode' during sex, where overthinking and analyzing can hinder genuine enjoyment. She explains how common it is, especially for women, and offers practical steps to become fully present and improve intimacy with your spouse. Topics include recognizing spectator mode, focusing on sensations, and engaging in conversation during sex.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Transform your sex life in just one hour with the Orgasm Course for Catholic Women
In this episode, Ellen and Kathleen dive into the four temperaments—choleric, sanguine, melancholic, and phlegmatic—and explore how these personality types can influence your sex life and relationships. They break down the core traits of each temperament, discuss common challenges and strengths, and share practical advice for embracing your unique personality in marriage. Ellen and Kathleen also reflect on their own experiences and encourage listeners to consider how understanding temperaments can lead to deeper connection and communication.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Check out the Orgasm Course fort Catholic Women
Ellen addresses a listener's question about having sex after a vasectomy now that they understand Catholic Church teachings on permanent sterilization. She explains the forgiveness received through confession, the lack of requirement for a vasectomy reversal by the Church, and the psychological journey of fully accepting God's grace. Ellen discusses the emotional impact of sin and offers insights on how to handle lingering discomfort and seek further healing through prayer and understanding.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Check out the Orgasm Course fort Catholic Women
Ellen and Kathleen discuss the challenges of recognizing our own faults in marriage and how focusing on self-improvement can positively impact our relationships. They explore the importance of grace, self-reflection, and honest communication. The hosts emphasize that while it’s easy to pinpoint our spouse's shortcomings, acknowledging and working on our own flaws can lead to a happier, more virtuous marriage.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Check out the Orgasm Course fort Catholic Women
Experiencing painful sex? Check out this 11 minute video on healing painful sex from a Catholic perspective
In this episode, Ellen shares a simple yet effective tip to help women reach orgasm by focusing on breathing. Ellen explains how holding your breath can create muscle tension, hindering the ability to relax and receive sexual pleasure. She discusses different breathing techniques such as 4-4-6 and box breathing, which help in regulating the nervous system. Ellen advises to prioritize deep and normal breathing, especially as the arousal builds, to facilitate orgasm.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Get the Orgasm Course for Catholic Women right here!
In this episode, Ellen and Kathleen discuss the challenging topic of navigating sex and intimacy after a fight. They provide insights on balancing the physical and emotional aspects of intimacy, recognizing the importance of the sacrament of marriage, and the choice to be intimate despite lingering feelings of hurt. They also emphasize the significance of prayer, sacraments, and spiritual growth to strengthen marriage. Ellen and Kathleen share personal experiences and practical advice on overcoming mental blocks, addressing arguments, and nurturing the marital bond.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Check out the Orgasm Course fort Catholic Women
In this episode, Ellen delves into the complex issue of whether one should always say yes to their spouse in a marital context. Drawing parallels with the Annunciation, where Mary freely chose to say yes, Ellen offers a practical meditation to help navigate these feelings of obligation. The episode encourages listeners to reflect on their decisions without overthinking and to seek inspiration from Mary's example of a joyful and grace-filled yes.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Get Let's Talk About "It" right here and transform your marriage and sex life
This episode delves into the common experience in marriages where one spouse feels they are giving more than the other, particularly in the context of sex life and overall marital responsibilities. Ellen and Kathleen discuss the myth of a 50/50 marriage and share personal stories of times when they and their spouses bore unequal burdens. They highlight how these imbalances are a part of life’s seasons and encourage focusing on the effort and sacrifices each partner makes in different areas.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Get Let's Talk About "It" Right HERE!
Ellen discusses the concept of marital debt and the perceived obligation for married couples to have sex. She explores this in the context of Catholic teachings on attending Sunday Mass and Holy Days of Obligation. Ellen argues that the true essence of these obligations lies not in mere obedience but in a deep, life-giving desire. Just as attending Mass should stem from a genuine yearning to connect with God, marital intimacy should be driven by a desire for deep communion with one's spouse, rather than a mere sense of duty
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Check out the Getting in the Mood Guide!
In this episode Ellen and Kathleen explore the challenges and frustrations often associated with Natural Family Planning (NFP). They delve into the importance of choosing positive thoughts and gratitude, even in difficult circumstances, to improve one's marital intimacy and overall outlook on NFP. Through practical advice and thought-provoking insights, Ellen and Kathleen encourage listeners to shift their perspective, recognize NFP as a gift, and find strength in their faith and discernment.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Check out our courses and guides at Vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this episode Ellen addresses the common concern of finding time for sex in the midst of busy modern lives filled with jobs, kids, and various commitments. Ellen emphasizes that we find time for what we prioritize, comparing the scheduling of sex to the commitment of attending Mass. She encourages listeners to evaluate their weekly activities, prioritize sex, and follow through on these priorities to enhance their marital intimacy. Ellen suggests practical steps, including scheduling and hierarchical prioritization, and reassures listeners to trust in God's provision of time and capacity.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Need help with how to actually say what you want to your husband? Get Let's Talk About "It"!
This episode addresses the common struggle of figuring out personal sexual desires within a marriage, particularly from a Catholic perspective. The hosts discuss the importance of communicating needs, such as specific types of foreplay, to one's spouse while maintaining boundaries. The conversation emphasizes the power of positive thoughts and the importance of setting an appropriate time and atmosphere for such imaginative exercises.
We also mentioned the Orgasm Course if you're looking for that!
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Need help getting in the mood for sex. Your answer is the getting in the mood guide, right here
Ellen discusses the challenge of staying present during sex and introduces the concept of storytelling as a helpful technique. She clarifies the difference between storytelling and role-playing, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the dignity of the act in accordance with Catholic faith. Ellen provides examples of how couples can use their imagination to create engaging scenarios and memories to enhance intimacy. She also mentions a new guide available for more tips on getting in the mood using imaginative and morally appropriate methods.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Check out the Getting in the Mood Guide Here!
In this episode, Ellen and Kathleen discuss the appropriateness of Catholic women consuming romance novels and PG-13/R-rated media like Bridgerton and Game of Thrones. They explore the potential negative impact such content can have on brain chemistry, intimacy, and marital relationships. The hosts offer practical advice on recognizing and eliminating detrimental media from one's life, emphasize the importance of using one's imagination positively, and recommend using spiritually enriching content like Song of Songs to foster intimacy. They also introduce a forthcoming 'Getting in the Mood' guide to help women find morally acceptable ways to enhance their marital intimacy.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Get the FREE Foreplay Foundations Course right here!
In this episode, Ellen discusses the challenges of communicating and embracing the Church's teachings on Natural Family Planning (NFP) and marital intimacy. She reflects on a personal conversation with a family member who acknowledged that NFP is a 'hard sell.' Ellen delves into the difficulties of living out these teachings, the role of suffering in the Christian life, and how enduring these challenges can ultimately lead to spiritual growth and redemption. She encourages listeners to remain steadfast in their faith and commitments, despite the inherent struggles.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Transform your sex life with 7 essential conversations - Get Let's Talk About "It"
In this episode Ellen and Kathleen discuss the ease with which marriages can become disconnected and offer strategies to counteract this. They emphasize the importance of intentional habits and routines in fostering connection, particularly in the context of marriage and intimacy. The conversation also explores the need for persistence in these efforts and compares these habits to continual prayer, highlighting that even small, seemingly rote actions can have substantial power and efficacy over time.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Get the FREE Foreplay Foundations Course Here!
Ellen addresses common questions and concerns about sexual desire within marriage. She discusses the significance of sex as a renewal of wedding vows and as a way to image the Trinity, emphasizing the importance of intentionality and respect toward the sexual union in marriage. Ellen explores how apathy towards sex can harm relationships and underscores the holy and essential nature of sex within a Catholic marriage.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Get Lovemaking at Ave Maria Press! Use code Ellen10 to get 10% off!
In this episode, we welcome Monica and Renzo Ortega to discuss their new book titled 'Lovemaking.' Drawing from personal experiences and mentorship to young couples, they emphasize the importance of communication and real conversations in marriage. They also read an excerpt from their book and elaborate on how it addresses sensitive topics such as sexual intimacy and marital challenges. Their book aims to guide newlyweds and couples at various stages of marriage, offering practical and heartfelt insights to strengthen their relationships.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Transform your sex life with 7 essential conversations - Get Let's Talk About "It"Ellen and Kathleen tackle the common misconceptions about sex and intimacy within marriage, particularly the idea that sex should be effortless.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
NEW Course Let's Talk About "It" is available NOW!
Ellen addresses the question of whether it is okay for couples to make out while trying to avoid pregnancy during the fertile window. She explains the role of sexual arousal in preparing the body for sex and discusses the potential physical and emotional discomfort of arousing each other without the intention to have sex.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Get Jackie Angel's new book Memorize Scripture here (use code ELLEN10 for 10% off!)
In this episode Ellen is joined by Jackie Angel to discuss her new book, Memorize Scripture. They explore how memorizing scripture can enhance prayer life, and ultimately improve relationships, especially in marriage and sex life. Jackie shares her journey in ministry, the inspiration behind the book, and practical advice for integrating scripture memorization into daily life. The conversation dives deep into the benefits of focused prayer and present-mindedness, linking these practices to a fulfilling intimate relationship with your husband.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Get the FREE 5-day Foreplay Foundations Course today!
Ellen explores why sexual pleasure is so elusive. Discussing perspectives from Karol Wojtyla's 'Love and Responsibility,' Ellen explains how pleasure is collateral and not the primary end of human action. This episode covers the importance of focusing on love and self-giving actions rather than directly seeking pleasure, which can make it elusive. Ellen emphasizes that this elusiveness is actually beneficial, helping to ensure that spouses do not use each other merely as means to an end.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Get the Orgasm Course for Catholic Women right here!
In this episode, Ellen and Kathleen discuss perseverance in enhancing marital intimacy. They emphasize reframing thoughts around sex and intimacy, offering practical advice on trying again and tweaking approaches when efforts seem to fail initially. The conversation also delves into the emotional and spiritual aspects, highlighting the importance of patience, mindset shifts, and prayer in overcoming challenges and achieving sexual pleasure. Listen in for insights on maintaining a healthy and holy sex life, even through tough seasons.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Check out the FREE Five Day Foreplay Course!
In this episode, Ellen addresses common questions about foreplay and the Church's teachings on it. Covering topics such as the physiological effects of sexual arousal, the necessity of foreplay in intercourse, and the moral guidelines surrounding orgasms for both men and women, this episode provides a comprehensive overview.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this episode, Ellen and guest Mike 'Gomer' Gormley discuss the issue of sexual passivity in marriages, specifically through a Catholic lens. They explain what sexual passivity is, how it impacts relationships, and practical ways to combat it. Ellen emphasizes the importance of non-sexual touch and mutual understanding, while Gomer shares insights from his experience in parish ministry and personal anecdotes. They dive into the complexities of male and female perspectives on sex and intimacy, highlighting the significance of communication, respect, and appreciation in fostering a fulfilling marital relationship. This insightful dialogue aims to equip couples with the tools to enhance their intimacy and strengthen their marriages.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this special 200th episode, Ellen and Kathleen delve into their personal experiences with Natural Family Planning (NFP) and their fertility journeys over the past year +. They reflect on the impact of these experiences on their marriages and share heartfelt conversations about the challenges and blessings they've encountered. Tune in for an intimate and honest discussion on faith, family, and marital intimacy.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Getting distracted during sex not your only struggle with sex? That's why we created the Catholic Sex Course for Women, check it out here!
In this episode, Ellen and Kathleen discuss the common issue of getting distracted during sex. They provide practical tips and strategies for staying present, such as using grounding techniques, involving your senses, and communicating with your spouse. They also emphasize the importance of cultivating a positive mindset towards sex and how sharing this struggle with your spouse can help. Join Ellen and Kathleen as they explore ways to enjoy and engage in meaningful, undistracted intimate moments.
Pop Culture Catechism episode with Ellen
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Get the Catholic Sex Positions Guide right here!
Stop right now and listen to episode 162 of this podcast before you listen to this episode!
In this episode, Ellen addresses the common issue of women experiencing low sexual desire during their infertile periods while using Natural Family Planning (NFP). She provides practical tips to help navigate this challenge, starting with the importance of sleep, adequate nutrition, and stress management outlined in episode 162. Ellen suggests techniques such as scheduling sex, wearing comfortable attire, and mentally preparing yourself to enhance desire. She also emphasizes viewing sex as a gift to your spouse and the importance of a positive mindset toward enjoying your sex life.
Mentionables (use code CHARTING10 to get 10% off!)
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Get the Catholic Sex Course for Women right here!
In this special episode, Ellen shares the powerful testimony of a woman named Victoria, who experienced profound changes in her marriage and sex life through faith and prayer. Overcoming personal struggles and the challenges posed by her husband's use of pornography, Victoria's story emphasizes the transformative power of God's providence, natural family planning, and intimate connection. This heartfelt narrative demonstrates how persistent devotion and understanding can turn a relationship filled with pain into one of love, joy, and deep intimacy.
Bloom for Women is an excellent resource if you are struggling in the same way that Veronica did.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this episode, Ellen and Kathleen discuss the impact of busyness on intimate relationships. They highlight how constantly busy schedules can strain the connection with spouses and offer practical strategies to maintain intimacy. Additionally, they share personal experiences and the role of faith in navigating stressful, chaotic periods, emphasizing the significance of prioritizing family and marriage over societal pressures and financial worries.
Check out the O Course for Catholic Women right here!
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this episode, Ellen discusses the common habit of saying no to sex initiated by a spouse. She shares her personal experience of realizing this habit and challenges listeners to reflect on their reasons for frequently declining intimacy. Ellen encourages evaluating whether these reasons are genuine or simply habitual excuses, urging a more mindful approach to fostering a loving and unifying sexual relationship with their husbands.
Get the Catholic Sex Course for Women right here!
___________________________________
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Ellen discusses the essential role of forgiveness in maintaining a healthy sexual and marital relationship. She emphasizes that forgiving a spouse, while difficult, is crucial for opening up emotionally and physically within the marriage. Ellen outlines what forgiveness truly means and why it is necessary, dispelling common misconceptions. She also connects unforgiveness with physical tension and reduced sexual pleasure, offering practical steps to forgive through faith in Jesus.
Check out the Catholic Sex Course for Women right here!
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Ellen and her husband Kurt discuss strategies to balance arousal differences between partners during foreplay and sex, particularly when a man's arousal curve is faster than a woman's. They stress the importance of mutual responsibility for each other's pleasure within a Catholic marriage, offering practical tips for men to manage their arousal and focus on their wives. Key elements include effective communication, patience, and intentional practice to ensure both partners enjoy a mutually satisfying sexual experience. The episode addresses misconceptions about sexual duration and underscores the selfless nature of intimacy, aiming for both partners to achieve pleasure together.
Check out the Catholic Sex Course for Women right here!
___________________________________
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this episode, Ellen discusses the profound impact of the sacraments of the Eucharist and Confession on improving sex life and marital intimacy for Catholic women. Drawing insights from 'The Imitation of Christ,' she highlights the healing and restorative power that these sacraments offer, emphasizing their importance in curing vices, overcoming temptations, and enhancing love and grace in marriage. Ellen encourages regular participation in these sacraments as a way to strengthen marriages, suggesting practical strategies for attending Mass and confession together with a spouse, even in challenging circumstances. The conversation aims to inspire listeners to integrate sacramental grace into their relationships, complementing human efforts such as marriage counseling for holistic healing and growth.
Check out the Catholic Sex Course for Women right here!
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this episode, Ellen and Kathleen emphasize the importance of discussing sex daily with your spouse as a way to improve communication and eliminate the negativity often associated with these conversations. They suggest setting aside just five minutes each day to ensure regular, comfortable discussions about sex. Topics include how to initiate conversations, preferences, personal hygiene, foreplay, and addressing past experiences. They provide practical tips and conversation starters to make these talks more effective and enjoyable.
Get the Catholic Sex Positions Guide Here!
Mentionables Website (CHARTING10 gets you 10% off!)
Here's the conversation starters we recommend!
- What do you like about the way I initiate
- Would you like me to initiate in a different way
- What kind of atmosphere do you like for sex
- What kind of personal hygiene do you prefer before sex? Shower, teeth, sweaty/stinky, cigar
- What kind of lingerie do you like
- Do you like talking during sex? What kind of talking do you like
- What is something you’ve always wanted to do?
- What is something about sex you often think about?
- What is something you wish/fantasize about sex?
- How often would you like to be having sex?
- What is your favorite position?
- What is a position you would like to try?
- What are your favorite things that I do during sex?
- What are things you dislike that I do during sex?
- What was your favorite sexual encounter we have ever had?
- What things do you like during foreplay?
- Is there something you would like to try?
- Is there something that embarrasses you about sex?
- What helps you relax before sex?
- What would you like to have done around the house before sex?
- Is there anything you need to have in place before being comfortable having sex?
- What are your past experiences of sex?
- How do your past experiences affect our sex life? How you view sex?
- Do you like wearing socks during sex?
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Ellen discusses the moral licitness of using marital aids, commonly known as sex toys, in Catholic marriages. She explains that while replacing sex with such aids is immoral, their use to enhance pleasure and intimacy within the marital act is acceptable. Specific aids like vibrators and penis rings are discussed in detail, emphasizing their role in improving the sexual experience without compromising the moral requirements of intercourse, such as ejaculation inside the woman. Ellen highlights the importance of using these tools as enhancements rather than necessities and offers guidance based on theological insights and teachings.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this episode, Ellen and guest Ginny Noce discuss the critical role of nutrition and lifestyle in enhancing men's sexual health. Ginny, a registered nurse and fertility awareness instructor with a master's degree in nutrition, shares insights on how diet impacts hormone health, libido, and overall well-being. Key topics include the importance of antioxidant-rich foods, managing blood sugar, pairing carbohydrates with proteins, and the benefits of strength training. The conversation also offers practical advice for women to support their husbands in making healthy lifestyle changes, emphasizing the significance of a balanced diet and regular exercise.
Get connected with Ginny here! Or on Instagram
Check out the Catholic Sex Course for Women right here!
___________________________________
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comReady to improve your sex life and take it to the next level? Check out our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Ellen addresses the challenge of feeling uncomfortable with any touch from your husband automatically leading to sex. She introduces 'touch time' as a technique to build comfort and safety with non-sexual touch between spouses. Touch time involves structured sessions of touching each other in non-sexual ways to break the association of touch leading to sex, fostering a healthier tactile relationship.
Check out the Catholic Sex Course for Women right here!
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this episode, Ellen and Kathleen discuss the common struggle of saying 'should' in your sex life and how it can negatively affect your intimacy. They explore the importance of understanding the underlying reasons for these feelings. The hosts emphasize the need to shift from a scarcity mindset and provide practical advice on embracing a healthier, more fulfilling intimate life. They also touch on the spiritual aspects of sex and remind listeners to seek both physical and spiritual solutions.
Check out the O Course for Catholic Women right here!
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this episode, Ellen addresses a listener's question about male sexual dysfunction, particularly erectile dysfunction and inability to finish, related to performance anxiety and natural family planning (NFP). She offers insights from a Catholic perspective on alleviating mental pressure, increasing intimacy frequency, and open communication between spouses. Ellen also discusses the importance of reframing thoughts around sex to reduce anxiety and highlights the significance of maintaining interest and support to help alleviate shame. The episode concludes with suggestions on bringing these issues to prayer and seeking God's grace in these challenges.
Get the Catholic Sex Positions Guide Here!
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this episode, Ellen and Kathleen discuss the importance of pursuing your spouse outside of the bedroom, offering practical advice and theological insights. They stress the significance of intentional love actions and how they reflect our relationship with God. The hosts share personal experiences and practical tips. They also highlight the challenges humans face in initiating love and emphasize the need for constant prayer to combat negative influences that prevent us from loving our spouses fully.
Check out the O Course for Catholic Women right here!
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Ellen dives into the frequently misunderstood Ephesians chapter 5, elucidating its true meaning and emphasizing the profound responsibilities it places on both husbands and wives. She explores how Ephesians chapter 4's call to holiness frames the subordination described in chapter 5, clarifying that husbands are to embody Christ-like virtues, making marriages beautiful through mutual love and sacrifice.
Get the Catholic Sex Positions Guide right here!
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Ellen welcomes Dr. Sarah Bartell, a moral theologian specializing in marriage and sexuality, to discuss how to handle situations where a husband does not agree with Catholic teachings on sex, intimacy, natural family planning, and contraception. They explore the church's teachings, practical advice for maintaining intimacy during abstinent periods, and how to approach conversations with a non-compliant spouse. Sarah shares insights on prayer, the importance of emotional intimacy, and examples of holy couples who have navigated similar challenges.
Get on the waiting list for Sarah's My Delight Course
Get Sarah's FREE guide to Enhancing Marital Intimacy for Catholic women and learn 9 Skills for Mind, Body, and Spirit.
Check out the Catholic Sex Course for Women right here!
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Ellen and Kathleen discuss the crucial role of empathy in relationships, particularly in the context of a married sexual relationship. They emphasize the importance of understanding and sharing the feelings of one's spouse, navigating differences in sexual desire, and the necessity of communication and compromise. The episode highlights that empathy is essential for both partners and stresses that both the spouse with higher and lower desire need to exercise empathy to foster intimacy and understanding in their marriage.
Catholic Sex Course for Women - get all the info right here!
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this episode, Ellen explores the complex concept of shame in the context of sex and intimacy for Catholic women. Drawing insights from St. John Paul II's "Love and Responsibility," she discusses the dual nature of shame—its protective aspect to prevent objectification, and its role in seeking true love. Ellen delves into how positive shame safeguards intimacy, while emphasizing the need to eliminate negative shame influenced by purity culture and Manichaeism. She explains how love can absorb shame in a healthy marital relationship, ensuring respect and the true value of each person.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this episode Ellen and Kathleen delve into the highly requested topic of knowing when it's the right time to stop avoiding pregnancy and start trying to conceive. They explore the differences between the two approaches and discuss the beautiful openness couples can experience. Emphasizing a faith-based perspective, they talk about discerning God's will, the significance of prayer, and the importance of aligning one's will with God's. Through personal anecdotes and insights, Ellen and Kathleen offer guidance to Catholic couples navigating this stage of their marital journey.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this episode Ellen delves into the common marital issue of differing sex drives between spouses. Ellen emphasizes that every couple faces this problem at some point and highlights the importance of understanding the difference between spontaneous and responsive desire. She offers actionable advice on dealing with these differences, including improving communication, managing stress, ensuring adequate sleep, and proper nutrition. Ellen encourages spouses to stop blaming the disparity itself and instead focus on understanding and empathizing with each other's needs. Tune in for a compassionate and practical discussion aimed at enhancing intimacy and marital happiness.
Get the Catholic Sex Course for Women RIGHT HERE!
**The Painful Sex Course for Catholic Women is open for enrollment!****Have you experienced any pain with sex? This course is for you.
Enrollment is open ONLY until 11:59 pm August 5, 2024. Join Now!
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this episode I (Ellen) am joined by my husband Kurt to discuss the challenges we faced during the first year of our marriage, primarily focusing on our struggles with sex due to acute vaginismus and poor communication. We delve into how these issues affected our relationship, what we learned about the physical and mental aspects of sex, and how we ultimately overcame these challenges. We also introduce a new course on painful sex and the importance of a dual approach in addressing both the physical and mental aspects. Join us as we share our personal journey and offer insights and resources to help others facing similar struggles.
Grab the free guide for 5 tips for less painful sex here (and get updates about when the cart opens for the Painful Sex Course for Catholic Women)
**The Painful Sex Course for Catholic Women is open for enrollment!****Have you experienced any pain with sex? This course is for you.
Enrollment is open ONLY until 11:59 pm August 5, 2024. Join Now!
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Get our FREE Download of 5 tips for less painful sex!
In this episode of Charting Toward Intimacy, Ellen Holloway is joined by Christina Walsh, co-owner of Tighten Your Tinkler, to explore various types of pain experienced during sex and the role of pelvic floor health. Christina, a licensed physical therapist, shares insights from personal and professional experiences, discussing causes such as hypertonic pelvic floors and the impact of trauma. Together, they emphasize holistic approaches, practical tips, and the importance of communication with spouses to address and mitigate these issues.
Check out our other episode with Jen from Tighten Your Tinkler (ep. 70)
Resources mentioned on the episode
Decompression Technique
Improving Intimacy Guide
5-minute Root Cause Quiz
Pubic joint self-check
Use code CHARTING50 to save $50 on the Tighten Your Tinkler Signature Program
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this episode Ellen and Kathleen dive into the complexities of maintaining a healthy sex life during family vacations. They discuss practical tips for navigating shared living spaces, the importance of sustaining intimacy without sex, and creative ways to find private moments with your spouse. The conversation also covers how to handle charting for Natural Family Planning (NFP) while out of routine, including the use of phone reminders, habit stacking, and consulting with your NFP instructor. This episode offers valuable insights and practical advice for keeping the flame alive even on busy family trips.
Get the Catholic Sex Course for Women RIGHT HERE!
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this episode host Ellen Holloway delves into the topic of oral stimulation. Ellen explains the church's teachings on what is permissible and how oral stimulation fits into moral boundaries as foreplay leading to intercourse. Highlighting the importance of both male and female sexual pleasure, she clarifies that while female orgasm can occur during oral stimulation, male ejaculation must happen during intercourse to uphold the procreative purpose of sex.
Get the Catholic Sex Positions Guide TODAY!
___________________________________
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Trying new positions can be a lot! Maybe you're not sure how to approach the conversation or you don't even know any other positions to try. This week, Ellen and Kathleen talk all things trying new positions in the bedroom!
NOW AVAILABLE
The Catholic Sex Positions Guide
48% off for a limited time!
Over 70 pages, 50 + positions with illustrations, instructions, tips, and troubleshooting
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this episode Ellen delves into why there isn't a checklist for sexual pleasure in marriage and why that's a good thing. She discusses the theological perspectives on the human body and sexual pleasure, emphasizing the opportunity for couples to learn and grow through the newness of each intimate encounter. Ellen encourages couples to embrace the mystery and discovery in their sexual relationship, likening it to the ever-evolving experience of prayer and communion with God.
Interested in the Orgasm Course for Catholic Women? Click Here
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Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this episode Ellen and Kathleen discuss the nuances of grooming and shaving the genital area from a Catholic perspective. They address common questions around the morality of grooming, reasons people choose to groom, and the purpose of genital hair. The episode also covers the importance of communication between spouses about grooming preferences, realistic expectations versus those influenced by pornography, and helpful tips for safe grooming practices.
Get the Orgasm Course for Catholic Women HERE!
___________________________________
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Today Ellen is answering a question from Instagram:
My husband really resists oral, but sex has been painful for me. He's really rough. I spoke up and there's been no change.
As you can see there are a lot of facets to this question and we cover it all in this episode!
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Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this week's episode Kathleen and Ellen talk about some common elements of lingerie. They discuss both personal preferences as well as how certain elements can fit well for certain body types or seasons of life (like postpartum or pregnant bodies!)
We talk through some pieces specifically on the Mentionables website. While we reference specific pieces the conversation is tailored to style elements that you might notice in any lingerie!
You can use the code CHARTING for 10% off your purchase at Mentionables and your purchase helps support the show!
Please note that Mentionables changes their available styles on a regular basis so some of these links may not work if you are listening to this several months/years after the airing.
Piece #1 CAP SLEEVE SQUARE NECK BRALETTE - TEAL (see additional piece to fill out the set)
Piece #2 DOUBLE KEYHOLE SPLIT FRONT BABYDOLL - CORAL
Piece #3 PLUNGE NECK STRAPPY BACK TEDDY - TEAL
Piece #4 EMBROIDERED UNDERWIRE BUSTIER (and see additional pieces to fill out the set)
Piece #5 SATIN & EYELASH LACE SLIP - IRIDESCENT CREAM
Piece #6 LACE & MESH BUSTIER TIERED BABYDOLL - IRIDESCENT CREAM
Piece #7 EYELASH LACE CROTCHLESS TEDDY - NAVY
Piece #8 STRAPPY CROTCHLESS PANTY - BLACK (see additional piece to fill out the set)
Piece #9 LACY CAGED CUPLESS BRALETTE - BLACK
Piece #10 VELVET RUFFLE CROPPED CAMI - LAVENDER HAZE
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Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Ellen addresses the struggle many women face in transitioning from their busy day to intimate moments with their spouse. Highlighting the inherent multitasking nature of women's brains, Ellen introduces the '10-minute unwind' as a method to help focus and prepare for intimacy.
Check out the O Course for Catholic Women here!
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this episode, Ellen and Kathleen delve into the distinction between Natural Family Planning (NFP) and contraception, addressing common questions and concerns from a Catholic perspective. They explore the theological significance of sex, the church's stance on NFP versus contraception, and how these practices reflect one's relationship with God's will. The discussion covers the physical and spiritual aspects of marital intimacy, the importance of responsible parenthood, and the role of prayer and discernment in using NFP. They acknowledge the challenges and sacrifices that may come with practicing NFP but also highlight its potential for spiritual growth and deeper marital intimacy.
Interested in Ellen's Renewed Intimacy coaching program? Get more info and apply here
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Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this episode Ellen discusses how couples can handle differing levels of comfort with sexual acts. She emphasizes the importance of communication, respecting each other's boundaries, and defaulting to the less comfortable spouse to maintain a loving and trusting relationship. She provides guidance on how to navigate situations where one partner is uncomfortable, suggesting that saying no is an opportunity for growth and deeper intimacy. The discussion includes how to handle uncomfortable situations both during and outside the sexual act, advocating for clear communication as the means to a fulfilling sexual relationship within marriage.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this episode Ellen and Kathleen explore the topic of chastity within marriage, emphasizing that chastity goes beyond merely abstaining from sex. They discuss the deep and abundant grace available through the sacrament of marriage and how living out chastity can enhance marital intimacy and union. The conversation covers the Catechism's teachings on chastity for all baptized individuals, regardless of marital status. They debunk common misconceptions about chastity, highlighting its importance across different life states and within marriage, where it encompasses engaging in sexual relations healthily and wholesomely. The episode also touches on inappropriate behaviors that contradict chastity in marriage and offers practical advice on fostering intimacy and maintaining a chaste relationship, especially during times when sexual activity must be avoided.
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Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this episode Ellen shares a personal revelation about finding God's presence and grace in the imperfections of married life and liturgical celebrations. Despite her initial frustration with less-than-perfect liturgies during the Easter Triduum, Ellen is reminded through prayer that God's grace is not limited by human imperfections. She draws a parallel between her experience with liturgies and the realities of married life, emphasizing that God works through the 'messiness' of both to bring about His grace.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
This episode focuses on the common issue among couples regarding the disparity in sex drives, a topic frequently brought up by listeners. We propose a perspective shift, suggesting couples view these differences as blessings that can forward the relationship and increase intimacy.
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Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this episode, the focus is on the church's teachings regarding manual stimulation and masturbation within the context of marriage. We'll go through basically all of the different scenarios of manual stimulation from masturbation to stimulating the other person.
Get the Orgasm Course for Catholic Women at vinesinfullbloom.com/orgasm
___________________________________
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this episode of Charting Toward Intimacy, Ellen and Kathleen tackle the challenge of internalized purity culture and its impact on women's sexual thoughts. They discuss the phenomenon where healthy sexual desires within the context of marriage are mistakenly treated as intrusive thoughts due to purity culture's teachings. The discussion includes defining intrusive thoughts, sharing personal struggles with accepting sexuality, and the journey of healing the relationship with sex from the perspective of Catholic women.
Check out the 12 week Renewed Intimacy Coaching Program
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this episode we'll address the misconception among individuals practicing Natural Family Planning (NFP) that their sexual desire only peaks during the fertile window due to hormonal influences.
Listen in to see what you really need to change to experience more desire for sex!
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Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
This episode addresses the complexities and challenges couples face regarding postpartum sex. The episode covers the expectations, fears, and physical changes women and their partners might experience, emphasizing the importance of communication, understanding, and patience. Techniques such as perineal massage and the use of lubricants are suggested to ease discomfort and anxiety during postpartum sexual activity. Additionally, discussions include men's perspectives on postpartum sex, the importance of pelvic floor therapy, and the possible impact of SSRIs on sexual function. The episode is designed to equip couples with knowledge and tools to navigate postpartum sex, enhancing intimacy and relationship satisfaction.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Ellen addresses the common pursuit of perfectionism in marriage and sexual relationships, emphasizing that perfection is not a prerequisite for intimacy or spiritual growth. She discusses how striving for a perfect relationship or sexual encounter can be paralyzing, whereas embracing the imperfection can lead to significant growth, healing, and a deeper bond. Trial, error, and grace-filled perseverance in sexual intimacy can transform and sanctify marriage.
Get the Orgasm Course for Catholic Women at vinesinfullbloom.com/orgasm
___________________________________
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this episode of 'Charting Toward Intimacy', Kathleen and Ellen discuss the misconception of sex being a love language. They explain that sex should be a result of love and intimacy rather than the base of it, and argue that using sex as the glue that holds a relationship together creates a false expectation and could become unfulfilling over time. The five love languages - words of affirmation, quality time, receiving gifts, acts of service, and physical touch - are examined, with the assertion that each is inherently separate from sex. The necessity of understanding one's own and their partner's love languages to truly fulfill each other's needs is emphasized.
Apply now to Ellen's 8-week one on one coaching program and see how your marriage and sex life can be transformed in just 2 months.
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Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this episode Ellen discusses the deep connection between sex and prayer. She implements the teachings of the Catechism, arguing that just as prayer cannot be reduced to spontaneous desire but requires an active will, sex should also not be reduced to spontaneous physical desire. She encourages listeners to recognize the depth of sexual relations as an experience of unity and not just physical satisfaction. She also stresses that desire for sex should be understood as a longing for deeper unity and relationship with one's spouse.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
This podcast, led by Ellen Holloway and Kathleen Chavones, discusses the challenges of sticking to Natural Family Planning (NFP) during instances of limited fertile days and mandatory abstinence due to serious medical or financial constraints. It emphasizes how suffering and sacrifice are crucial elements of the Christian journey. They tackle the often-perceived unfairness of NFP, clarifying how beliefs about God not wanting us to suffer are misleading. They argue that during these periods of struggle, couples need support from the virtues of prudence, temperance, and fortitude, and that relying on God's grace is essential to persevere through the difficulties. They conclude by acknowledging the hardships faced by couples in extreme circumstances, offering their respect and empathetic support.
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Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
This episode focuses on the emotional complexities of initiating sex within a Catholic marriage, emphasizing the importance of understanding individual desires and the associated vulnerabilities. Through an in-depth discussion, Ellen addresses various misconceptions about physical desire and urges couples to explore deeper emotional and spiritual desires and how it relates to sexual intimacy. Helpful strategies are suggested for initiating and responding to initiation in a loving, considerate manner. The podcast closes with the need for clear communication and understanding in terms of family planning intentions and the perceived readiness for sexual intimacy in a woman's perspective.
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Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Mike 'Gomer' Gormley joins host Ellen as they discuss the detrimental effects of sexual passivity on marriage and ways to overcome it. Gomer provides valuable insights from a male perspective, emphasizing the importance of sexual initiation, communication, respect, and genuine love in maintaining a healthy sex life and marriage. The duo takes a deep dive into topics such as the significance of non-sexual touch, misconceptions about male and female sexual drives, and the role of honest, non-judgmental conversation in fostering intimacy. The podcast episode serves as a platform for open dialogue on a significant, yet often overlooked issue in relationships, encouraging listeners to rethink and reshape their attitudes towards marital intimacy.
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Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this podcast episode, Ellen addresses the challenge of navigating sex within a marriage, particularly from a Catholic perspective. She discusses a situation where a couple put such heavy emphasis on the religious significance of sex that it led to tension and avoidance, reducing their sexual encounters drastically. Ellen proposes that adding a sense of fun and lightness to one's sex life can relieve the pressure, fostering trust and openness between partners. This approach can be implemented via laughter-oriented activities, games, or playful preludes to sex, ultimately improving sexual intimacy and communication in marriage.
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Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this podcast Ellen, discusses the idea of women becoming gatekeepers of sex in a relationship, specifically within the context of a Catholic marriage and family planning. In conversation with guest Grace Stark, editor for Natural Womanhood, they suggest that the issue can be seen as an issue of communication rather than a power struggle. They discuss ways to foster stronger communication, and to share responsibility for family planning and initiating intimacy. Additionally, they delve into strategies to shift from a default 'no' response to a 'yes', fostering an atmosphere of openness and honesty within the relationship.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this episode, hosts Ellen and Kathleen talk about lessons they wish they knew on their wedding night. They highlight the importance of open communication, and understanding the depth and holiness of sex within marriage, and how it goes beyond just fulfilling an urge. They emphasize the need to translate the intellectual understanding of the sanctity of sex to the heart. Both share their insights about how this realization has been a journey, requiring continual growth and wrestling with the realities of intimacy. Both hosts express a desire to normalize conversations about sex in their circles and feel that such communication is essential for a healthy understanding of intimacy.
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Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this episode, we discuss the common scenario of feeling too tired for marital intimacy. We'll talk about the importance of identifying the root cause, be it a heavy workload, miscommunication, or simply needing more sleep. Here's some of the big takeaways: understand each other's perspectives, engage in active communication, take a fresh look at sex, viewing it not as a chore but as a way to enhance intimacy and connection.
Sex is vital in reinforcing the bond and renewing wedding vows, so being too tired for it is not an option. It's time to make some changes in your life.
Looking for more pleasure in your sex life? Or maybe just looking for any pleasure at all? Get The Orgasm Course for Catholic Women!
___________________________________
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Ellen is joined by Dr. Sarah Bartel for part 2 of their conversation on licit and illicit acts. The episode focuses primarily on pornography, sex manuals, sex therapy, and imaginative role-play in marriage. They stress the importance of respecting both the unitive and procreative functions of sex in Catholic teaching.
Please go listen to the episode prior to this one titled Sex Toys, Lingerie, and Orgasms, Oh My! with Dr. Sarah Bartel before listening to this follow up conversation.
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Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Ellen discusses sex and intimacy within the confines of Catholic marriage with guest Dr. Sarah Bartel. The primary focus is on demystifying varying questions related to sexual acts in Catholic marriage, ensuring they respect both the procreative and unitive aspects of sex. These include discussions on topics as varied as the use of sex toys, wearing lingerie, and the acceptance of different sexual acts.
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Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Ellen and Kathleen are discussing on how to overcome despair and struggles associated with intimacy in a marriage. They emphasize that giving in to despair only strengthens the negative forces affecting our lives. They stress the importance of holding onto faith and prayer, and provide tips for dealing with difficult periods.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
We're talking about why recording sexual encounters between spouses is not in line with the Catholic understanding of marital intimacy. The discussion explores the sanctity of sex within marriage, emphasizing the importance of privacy and mutual self-gift. Ultimately, the episode underscores the importance of present commitment and love in sexual relationships rather than objectifying and recording the act.
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Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Ellen and Kathleen discuss a myriad of assumptions women often make about sex, how they negatively impact one's sex life, and how to overcome them. They delve into the concepts of responsive and spontaneous desires, discuss misconceptions about men and women's sexual needs, emphasize the importance of communication in sex, and highlight that sex is an individualized experience, unique to each couple.
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Use code IMMACULATE49 for $49 dollars off (only 8 available)
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Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
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Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Ever been stuck during arousal because you hit a plateau and you don't know what happens next? This episode is for you.
Ellen outlines two main models for understanding and navigating female sexual arousal in this episode.
- Masters and Johnson's four-phase linear model, which is applicable for both men and women, includes excitement, plateau, orgasm, and resolution.
- Basson's cyclical model, purely focused on female sexual response, takes the varied facets of female sexual response into consideration.
Get The Orgasm Course for Catholic Women!
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Ellen and Kathleen discuss the topic of finding peace when sex and family planning don't go as planned. They delve into how controlling sexual outcomes can hinder the freedom and fullness that are inherent in marital intimacy. They suggest that recognizing the divine role in every sexual act and outcome, and surrendering the need for control, can lead to peace in family planning, even when things go awry. They also discuss the pressure of societal norms vis-a-vis family size, and encourage listeners to pray for peace in surrendering their families to God's divine plan.
The Orgasm Course for Catholic Women
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this episode, Ellen discusses the virtue of patience, particularly in the context of sex, marital intimacy, and pregnancy. She explores the connection between patience and our spiritual, emotional well-being and offers practical tips to make waiting more bearable. Her key messages underline that patience is a stepping stone to holiness and is not a burden. She emphasizes the need to embrace patience and view it as an opportunity for growth and spiritual development, going so far as to associate it with joy. Toward the end of the episode, she provides some strategies for practicing patience, like seeking holy distractions and understanding the root cause of any frustration or anger associated with waiting.
APPLY NOW for the 2024 GIVEN Cohort Thank you to the GIVEN Institute for sponsoring this week's episode.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
In this episode of 'Charting Toward Intimacy', Ellen is joined by Kathleen's husband Michael.
We'll explore how couples should handle disagreements on Natural Family Planning (NFP). We delve into varying perspectives on the justifiable reasons for using NFP, and consider the implications when one spouse does not agree with its use. The conversation covers the importance of effective communication, recognizing personal desires versus pleasure, and the significance of divine judgement in one's decisions. The episode emphasizes the need for empathy, understanding, and mutual alignment in a marriage with regards to NFP, while acknowledging the individual uniqueness of each relationship.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
"I like spontaneity when it comes to sex, scheduled sex just seems too bland or routine"
"Sex shouldn't be something you have to schedule a good sex life just happens"
"If you schedule sex then you take out all the fun of it"
These are all lies and awful ones at that. In this episode we're going to talk about why the idea of spontaneous sex is really not the approach you should be taking when it comes to your sex life. In fact, sex should be quite the opposite of spontaneous, it should be a priority.
But we're not just talking about scheduling sex, we're digging into what people really want when they say that sex shouldn't be scheduled it should be spontaneous.
Links:
Almond Oil
Jojoba Oil
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Feeling like you're in a rut? Looking for some suggestion on how to get out of said rut? This is the episode for you. Ellen and Kathleen share from personal experience some of the best ways to get out of a sex rut.
The Orgasm Course for Catholic Women is available now. Sign up for lifetime access.
We highly recommend checking out Pray More Novenas if you have trouble remembering to complete a novena!
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Touched Out and Bristle Touch. These are the two types of negative reactions to touch that we are talking about on the podcast today. We'll explain what those two things are and give you tips to combat them!
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Kesey Skoch joins us this week to talk about how our oversexualized culture is hurting our marriages, especially in the form of pornography. We talk about the real definition of pornography and how most of us have been exposed to pornography way more than we even realize.
To hear Kelsey's story or get more information on how to be free, click here.
The Orgasm Course for Catholic Women is available here. Special launch pricing of only $50 ends on October 6th, 2023. After that it goes up to $99, so get it now. If the link doesn't work for you, send me an email at podcast@ellenholloway.com
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
How was your sex education? Probably bad and not enough.
In this episode we are diving into what is needed today in the church for adults: authentically Catholic sex education. We'll talk about what that is, where to find it, and why it's needed.
The Orgasm Course for Catholic Women is LIVE.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
We are answering a listener question in a full episode this week. We got a question about pregnancy sex and how it works with all the hormones, things feeling different, and positions. Listen in for tips ranging from positions to emotional support broken down by trimester.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
Do you initiate regularly? If you don't, we think you should. But believe us, we're not sitting on our high thrones looking down on you with this topic, we're right there in the thick of getting more comfortable initiating ourselves.
In this episode we're talking a little bit about why you should initiate more often, the conversations you need to have with your husband BEFORE you start initiating more regularly, and some ways to initiate if the idea of saying the words "Do you wannna have sex tonight?" makes you want to want to hide under your pillow or blush with embarrassment.
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Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to learn more about Ellen's 12 week coaching program.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.comThe Charting Toward Intimacy Exclusive Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses: vinesinfullbloom.com/courses
People pleasers and rule followers unite! We're talking about breaking the NFP rules in this episode and what that looks like for your marriage, potential pregnancies, and how your NFP instructor really doesn't care if you're choosing to break the rules.
But also, if you "break the rules" meaning you use days within your fertile window, you should fully expect a possible pregnancy. Don't get mad at your body for working the way it's suppose to work.
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
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Want to get the outtakes, full video, and more? Come join us in the exclusive Charting Toward Intimacy community for only $5 a month! Click here
Have a question you want to hear answered on the podcast? Click Here to submit questions!
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Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
click here for 1 on 1 coaching with Ellen
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
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We're myth busting some common NFP Myths this week with special guest Agata!
Ever wondered how to respond when people come at you with misunderstandings or just plain wrong info about NFP, fertility awareness or female fertility in general. We've got some answers and responses for you right here!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
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Want to get the outtakes, full video, and more? Come join us in the exclusive Charting Toward Intimacy community for only $5 a month! Click here
Have a question you want to hear answered on the podcast? Click Here to submit questions!
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Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
click here for 1 on 1 coaching with Ellen
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
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God calls us to some very difficult situations especially concerning chastity and sexual ethics and morality within marriage. This comes up a lot during the fertile window when a couple is trying to avoid pregnancy and therefore needs to abstain.
This week we are talking about how God will never put you in a situation that you can't get through without his grace. You just have to be open to that grace
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
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Want to get the outtakes, full video, and more? Come join us in the exclusive Charting Toward Intimacy community for only $5 a month! Click here
Have a question you want to hear answered on the podcast? Click Here to submit questions!
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Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
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How do I know if something is morally good or bad? Is there a way to judge the things we do in life (especially in the sexual realm) to know if it's the right thing to do? Yes! there is a way to judge human actions. The Church gives us a very clear, step-by-step process to evaluate the morality of an action. Ellen will talk you through these steps in this week's episode!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
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Want to get the outtakes, full video, and more? Come join us in the exclusive Charting Toward Intimacy community for only $5 a month! Click here
Have a question you want to hear answered on the podcast? Click Here to submit questions!
___________________________________
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Talking about sex can be very intimidating. We urge you to talk about "it" with your spouse regularly on this podcast, but how do you get into the habit of communicating about sex We'd like to introduce you to a new idea on how to bring the topic of sex into conversation on a regular basis and why it is important to regularly communicate about sex.
Gottman Card Deck App
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
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Want to get the outtakes, full video, and more? Come join us in the exclusive Charting Toward Intimacy community for only $5 a month! Click here
Have a question you want to hear answered on the podcast? Click Here to submit questions!
___________________________________
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What is the Eternal Banquet, the wedding feast of the Lamb? What is that really? I mean honestly we don't know, but God gives us windows to peer in and see tiny glimmers of the glory that await us in Heaven.
Sometimes we turn those windows, those icons to heaven into idols. Sex is one of those things that we idolize.
In this episode we'll pose the question that you need to regularly be asking yourself, am I making an idol out of sex or am I allowing it to be the icon that it was designed to be?
Ghent Altarpiece
Disputation of the Holy Sacrament - This is the one we didn't know the name of!
Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books!
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Want to get the outtakes, full video, and more? Come join us in the exclusive Charting Toward Intimacy community for only $5 a month! Click here
Have a question you want to hear answered on the podcast? Click Here to submit questions!
___________________________________
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Pain with Sex is not normal.
Let me say that again. Pain with sex is not normal. If you're experiencing pain, let this episode be the wakeup call you need to do something about the pain you're experiencing.
Kathleen and Ellen share some of their experiences with pain and discomfort and give you some tips if you are experiencing pain!
Links:
Sweet Almond Oil
Tighten Your Tinkler use code CHARTING50 for $50 off!
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Want to get the outtakes, full video, and see baby Josephine who makes a cameo this week? Come join us in the exclusive Charting Toward Intimacy community for only $5 a month! Click here
Have a question you want to hear answered on the podcast? Click Here to submit questions!
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Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Every heard the term cycle syncing? well that's not what we're talking about in this episode. We're talking about ways to understand how to live your life to the fullest through the different phases of your cycle. How can you maximize your energy levels and focus on family time in ways that won't make you stomp around your house wanting to throw everything out!
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Want to get the outtakes, full video, and see baby Josephine who makes a cameo this week? Come join us in the exclusive Charting Toward Intimacy community for only $5 a month! Click here
Have a question you want to hear answered on the podcast? Click Here to submit questions!
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Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We're talking mindset when it comes to sex for those of us ladies. This is a huge topic and we just scratch the surface on opening up some of the reasons we think and act the way we do around sex and some tips on how to improve your mindset when it comes to sex!
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Want to get the outtakes, full video, and see baby Josephine who makes a cameo this week? Come join us in the exclusive Charting Toward Intimacy community for only $5 a month! Click here
Have a question you want to hear answered on the podcast? Click Here to submit questions!
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Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What constitutes a healthy sexual relationship? How do you know if you and your spouse have a healthy and mature sexual relationship? We dive into the characteristics of a healthy sexual relationship in this episode so that you can take stock of your own relationship.
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Want to get the outtakes, full video, and see baby Josephine who makes a cameo this week? Come join us in the exclusive Charting Toward Intimacy community for only $5 a month! Click here
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Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The Sacrament of Marriage and the Sacrament of the Eucharist have some incredible connections. In fact, marriage acts as a sort of analogy for the Mass. We're going to dive into this and even more in this episode.
If marriage is an analogy for the Mass, what kinds of connections can be made about the use of contraception in a marriage and what that would look like analogously in the Mass? We'll answer that question too!
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Want to get the outtakes, full video, and see baby Josephine who makes a cameo this week? Come join us in the exclusive Charting Toward Intimacy community for only $5 a month! Click here
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Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We are talking today about rules--the rules of our faith and how the rules around our faith are not arbitrary or oppressive!
The church should not be viewed as oppressive, especially in regards to our sexuality. There's a really good reason it's not just free for all, and we're going to get into that in this episode.
The Screwtape Letters by CS Lewis
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Want to get the outtakes, full video, and see the image we share in this episode, come join us in the exclusive Charting Toward Intimacy community for only $5 a month! Click here
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Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Guess what! You and your spouse are different people who have different wants and needs.
Your spouse is not going to want the exact same things you want and you're not going to want the exact things your spouse wants. In fact, you spouse might not care one bit about something you want, and THAT'S OK. Here's why, it's your job as spouse to communicate your wants and needs to your spouse. Your spouse isn't going to care unless you share how important it is to you.
Sometimes that means you have to ask more than once. Sometimes it means you have to ask more than 10 times. Sometimes it means you have to charitably ask every single day for multiple years until it becomes clear how important it is.
This applies both in and out of the bedroom too! Listen in for more on this topic and examples of how we've seen this play out in our marriages.
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Come join us in the exclusive Charting Toward Intimacy community! Click here
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Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
It might not sound as sexy as you think. The one thing you can do to improve your sex life is to work on your marriage as a whole!
Here's a great way to work on your marriage: Free Little Way of Marriage workshop
If you want in on the LIVE Zoom session Ellen and Sarah are doing on June 14 at 12 pm PT, click the link above and sign up for the Free Little Way of Marriage workshop and you'll get access to the Zoom session.
Looking for Abundant the full marriage course we mentioned on the podcast? Click right here! If you sign up through this link, you'll get a free one hour coaching session with Ellen alongside the course!
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Come join us in the exclusive Charting Toward Intimacy community! Click here for our presale deal of 6 months for the price of 3! You'll get access once the community launches on June 15!
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Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Here's the deal, you're not going to get good at sex by yourself. It takes two to tango! Sex is a team effort, and it takes practice to get good!
The best sex happens when each spouse is focused more on the other than on themselves. If you're looking to get to have all-star sex, you need to train like an athlete. That means practice, communicate, and practice more!
Come join us in the exclusive Charting Toward Intimacy community! Click here for our presale deal of 6 months for the price of 3! You'll get access once the community launches on June 15!
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Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Did you know there are two main types of desire? Spontaneous and Responsive.
If you feel like your desire is always lacking or you "never" feel like having sex, you might have responsive desire. Guess what: You're not broken at all. In fact, you're completely normal.
When it comes to desire, sometimes just the knowledge of what kind of desire you have can help so much!
Come join us in the exclusive Charting Toward Intimacy community! Click here for our presale deal of 6 months for the price of 3! You'll get access once the community launches on June 15!
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Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sex is a window to something greater. It is an icon, or image, of God's love for us. Even within good, faithful Catholic marriages, sex can be a point of contention because we aren't seeing God through sex and our sexual relationship. We're looking at sex not through sex. When you switch your mindset and start to look through sex toward God, it becomes easier to love your spouse. (not EASY, it becomes EASIER!)
Come join us in the exclusive Charting Toward Intimacy community! Click here for our presale deal of 6 months for the price of 3! You'll get access once the community launches on June 15!
Pray with us this month. We're putting together a spiritual bouquet for our mother Mary during this month with special intentions each week having to do with NFP and marriage. Please email podcast@ellenholloway.com with the things (rosaries, prayers, masses, etc.) you offered this week for our intention:
For Priests. We pray for our priests to be brave and authentic to their Catholic faith when talking about marriage and NFP. We pray for our priests to have compassion in the confessional when it comes to sexual sin, especially as it relates to NFP use and abstinence, while also remaining strong and firm in the teachings of the church and the meaning of the conjugal act.
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Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Want to get started with NFP but don't know where to go? Heard of NFP but you don't really know what it is? Have some questions about Natural Family Planning that you haven't been able to get a clear answer on? Look no further than this episode.
Kathleen and Ellen answer the basic question of "What the heck is NFP?" We go over the cycle, methods of fertility awareness, the difference between birth control and using NFP, and a bunch of frequently asked questions about NFP like "why does is cost money?" and "do I need to have an instructor?"
Looking for the method match course or coaching we talked about in the episode? Click here!
Come join us in the exclusive Charting Toward Intimacy community! Click here for our presale deal of 6 months for the price of 3! You'll get access once the community launches in a few weeks.
Pray with us this month. We're putting together a spiritual bouquet for our mother Mary during this month with special intentions each week having to do with NFP and marriage. Please email podcast@ellenholloway.com with the things (rosaries, prayers, masses, etc.) you offered this week for our intention:
For all women. We pray for the conviction of women to recognize the need for better healthcare, especially when it comes to birth control. We pray that women will get to know themselves and their bodies through fertility awareness.
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Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
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Got questions about your first time? We have answers!
Kathleen and Ellen share a little bit about their own first times to make you feel like you're not alone if your first time is.....not so great.
We touch on questions like "what lube should we use?" "How do we figure out positions?" "What if we're tired on the wedding night?" "My friend told me about bleeding, what's the deal with that?"
Our Lube recommendations: Almond oil or Jojoba Oil
Sex Blanket
Mentionables (get 10% off with code Ellen10)
Come join us in the exclusive Charting Toward Intimacy community! Click here for our presale deal of 6 months for the price of 3! You'll get access once the community launches in a few weeks.
Pray with us this month. We're putting together a spiritual bouquet for our mother Mary during this month with special intentions each week having to do with NFP and marriage. Please email podcast@ellenholloway.com with the things (rosaries, prayers, masses, etc.) you offered this week for our intention:
For Medical professionals and the medical community as a whole. We pray for an overall embracing of the science of fertility awareness as well as an understanding of the harms of hormonal birth control.
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Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sister M. Karolyn Nunes is joining us this week to talk about sexual wounds and healing. As the vocation director of her community, Sr. Karolyn helps to direct many women discerning religious life to start their own healing journeys when they have sexual wounds. One of the things lacking in marriage prep is ensuring that the healing process has begun for sexual issues, baggage, addictions, etc. Sr. Karolyn is chatting with us about how we can integrate this healing into our own lives whether we are preparing for marriage or we've been married for 25 years.
Interested in the book Sr. Karolyn mentioned? Into Your Hands Father by Wilfred Stinissen
Come join us in the exclusive Charting Toward Intimacy community! Click here for our presale deal of 6 months for the price of 3!
Pray with us this month. We're putting together a spiritual bouquet for our mother Mary during this month with special intentions each week having to do with NFP and marriage. Please email podcast@ellenholloway.com with the things (rosaries, prayers, masses, etc.) you offered this week for our intention:
For married couples. We pray for an overall embracing of marriage vows and an increase of the gift of self between spouses. We especially pray for those couples who struggle with periodic abstinence and NFP.
________________________________________________________________________________
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Let's talk about selfishness and NFP!
This episode is stemming from a lot of talk about "contraceptive mentality." We're not really talking about contraceptive mentality in this episode, we're talking about the underlying question behind the conversations about contraceptive mentality:
Can NFP be used selfishly? what about if you change the semantics and ask this question: can fertility awareness be used selfishly? The answer is actually different and we dive into what those answers are and why they're different.
Here's a hint at the answers: NFP is not self correcting system where if your reason to avoid pregnancy is not "good enough" or "serious enough" you and your spouse won't be able to abstain for the fertile window. That's just not true for many couples.
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Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ever heard the phrase "It's just not supposed to be this hard!" Maybe you've said it yourself.
Well when it comes to your sanctification, it actually probably is supposed to be that hard. Holiness is hard, really hard.
We're talking about how holiness is hard in relation to married life.
A lot of the time engaged and married couples have a lack of understanding that marriage is for the other person and for sanctification, it's not for you and your happiness. The goal of marriage is to get you to human flourishing, but it's not through easy, it's through hard. When things start getting hard in your marriage, that's when you know you're actually on the right track.
Here's some things that are hard in marriage, that actually aren't supposed to be easy:
-NFP
-Sex
-Abstinence
-Kids
-Pregnancy
-Finances
In this episode we're going to be discussing that while life is hard, and holiness is through hardship, we're not just called to sit back and let the hard make us miserable. We should be actively engaging in the hardness and asking ourselves: how can I grow in holiness in this time? Work like it all depends on you, but pray like it depends on God.
Interested in checking out the episode we mentioned about marriage being a battleground? A Letter from St. Valentine to Married Couples | Episode 104
Interested in checking out the Tighten Your Tinkler signature program? Click Here
Use the code CHARTING50 to get $50 off.
Check out Episode 70 with Jenn: Your Pelvic Floor is not a Magical Unicorn
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Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode we are talking about scheduling sex--pros and cons, when it works and when it doesn't.
Scheduling sex is a tool in the arsenal of ways to improve your sexual relationship. But here's the thing, scheduling does not work for every couple. Maybe it works for both of you, neither of you, or maybe it works for one spouse and not the other.
For example,
Here's a pro for scheduling sex: We give priority to things that are on the schedule. Are you prioritizing sex? If scheduling sex allows you to anticipate it, then scheduling might work great for you!
But here's an example on the other side: sometimes life is unpredictable. Flexibility is so important; you need to have that flexibility. When scheduling sex becomes a pressure to have sex even if you have a really hard day, it could set you up for disappointment and duty sex (which is never a good thing).
When it comes to scheduling sex, it's not going to work for everybody. There are a lot of different ways to go about scheduling sex and that's what we're talking about in this week's episode. Give it a listen, and maybe give it a try!
Interested in checking out the Tighten Your Tinkler signature program? Click Here
Use the code CHARTING50 to get $50 off.
Check out Episode 70 with Jenn: Your Pelvic Floor is not a Magical Unicorn
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Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ellen and Kathleen are back with another Charting Toward Intimacy episode. This week, we are talking about foreplay. What is foreplay?
We have two basic categories for you Anticipatory Foreplay and Escalatory Foreplay
Anticipatory Foreplay is simply things that make you anticipate sex at some point in the future. Anticipatory is more emotional in nature, but can still be physical.
Escalatory Foreplay is things that lead to arousal and then sex. Escalatory is more physical in nature, but can still be emotional.
Anticipatory Foreplay can last a day or two or a week. Escalatory is more immediately leading to sex within the next few minutes or hour (ish), it's different for every couple.
Interested in checking out the Tighten Your Tinkler signature program? Click Here Use the code CHARTING50 to get $50 off.
Check out Episode 70 with Jenn: Your Pelvic Floor is not a Magical Unicorn
________________________________________________________________________________
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Have you ever felt like it's impossible to actually desire sex or to get turned on? Like the pot that doesn't boil until you walk away from it, you might be like us and not get turned on if you're thinking too much about it. It's not until you walk away, or focus on something else that your desire pokes its head out and looks around.
We'll talk strategy and tips for getting your own pot to boil!
Interested in checking out the Tighten Your Tinkler signature program? Click Here Use the code CHARTING50 to get $50 off.
Check out Episode 70 with Jenn: Your Pelvic Floor is not a Magical Unicorn
________________________________________________________________________________
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
God is the model of intimate sexual communication...excuse me, what?!?
In this episode we're discussing how because our marriages are an image of the relationship God wants to have with us, the ways that God communicates with his people in the Old Testament is a model for us of how we should be communicating in our most intimate relationships. Namely, God is EXTREMELY specific, and you should be too!
We'll give you some tips, our own experience, and some more background on this concept.
Interested in checking out the Tighten Your Tinkler signature program? Click Here Use the code CHARTING50 to get $50 off.
Check out Episode 70 with Jenn: Your Pelvic Floor is not a Magical Unicorn
________________________________________________________________________________
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Kind of like the question of the chicken or the egg, which comes first physical or emotional intimacy? Well there are two basic camps that people typically fall into: (1) those who desire physical intimacy in order to feel emotionally close or (2) those who need to feel emotionally intimate before they are ready to be physically intimate.
Here's the fun part, a lot of times, couples are matched up where one spouse is one of those categories and the other spouse is the opposite!
This week we're breaking down what these categories are and giving you some tips to work on both your physical and your emotional intimacy.
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Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Teena is a product designed for teens and preteens to get them excited about cycle tracking and help them understand what is going on in their cycle. I'm really excited to share this completely honest review with you. Teena did provide me one of their devices for free to check it out, but my review is completely my own.
Head over to Instagram to enter the giveaway!
Want to purchase a Teena for your teen? Get $20 off here.
We'd like to present the term "Responsible Parenthood" as the new word we start using when we are describing what Catholic married couples do when they discern children, use NFP, and really just live out their lives as married couples, regardless of fertility status.
The term NFP falls short when we have discussions about what Catholic married couples are called to. NFP, after all, is just a tool. Responsible Parenthood, according to St. Pope Paul VI is a way of life that all married couples are called to live.
Read along in Humanae Vitae with us.
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Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
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NFP Basics is an add-on marriage preparation module that any marriage prep/pre-cana program can easily implement into their program. NFP Basics covers the theology behind why the church teaches NFP for family planning and why the church has a prohibition on contraception and fertility treatments like IVF. Then the program covers basic fertility science and gives an overview of most of the major methods available to couples to track the woman's cycle and plan their family.
In this episode, Ellen is on to tell you a little more about the program and her experience implementing this in a number of dioceses in California.
If you are interested in learning more about this program or bringing it to your parish or diocese, please check out the website here or email nfpbasics@ellenholloway.com
If you are interested in becoming a coach, click here to fill out the application.
Do you still struggle with reconciling that sex is good and holy? It's so common for us to think of sex as something bad or dirty, but it's not, I repeat NOT bad and dirty. Sex is good, it's better than good, it's HOLY.
If you're wondering what we meant by unity cross, click here! Sorry that Googling "unity cross" doesn't actually give you what we meant!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Let's chat about the marital debt! Who owes who sex? Who is supposed to be the one to sacrifice? What even is sacrificial love?
We'll get into all these questions and more in this week's episode.
Here's the book we mentioned called Theology of the Body in Simple Language
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
or email us at **podcast@ellenholloway.com
***Please note this podcast no longer uses Patreon. If you'd like to support the podcast, please email podcast@ellenholloway.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Your marriage is a battleground. Truly, the forces of good and evil are fighting against each other in your marriage and in all marriages. If you've ever felt like something is just fighting against you having a calm, peaceful, and good marriage.... it's because there is. Today in the episode we're talking about the particular difficulties of living in marriage in today's world.
My Delight is open February 13-15, sign up at this link here. Listening to the episode after Feb 13-16 2023? Sign up at the link above to get on the waitlist to be the first to know when the course opens again!
Here's the letter from "St. Valentine" (Thanks Chat GPT)
Dear Married Couples,
Greetings to you on this special day in honor of love and commitment. I am St. Valentine, and I am writing to encourage you in your journey as a married couple.
I know that being married in today's world can be filled with many challenges, but I want to remind you to always trust in God and His plan for your marriage. He has brought you together for a purpose, and He will be with you every step of the way.
Lean on your faith in God to provide you with the strength and wisdom you need to navigate the ups and downs of marriage. Seek His guidance in every decision you make and turn to Him in prayer when you face difficulties.
Remember that God is the source of all love and that He is the foundation upon which your marriage should be built. Trust in His love and grace to sustain you, and you will find peace and joy in your relationship.
I pray that God will bless your marriage and fill it with love, joy, and peace. May your love for each other continue to grow and flourish, and may you always find comfort and support in your faith in Him.
With Love,
Your Valentine
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
or email us at **podcast@ellenholloway.com
***Please note this podcast no longer uses Patreon. If you'd like to support the podcast, please email podcast@ellenholloway.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We hear it a lot: "Contraception would be easier" "Why can't my husband and I just use a condom?" "I wish we could just have the option." Let's dive into why contraception isn't even a choice. We're pulling from Humanae Vitae as well as the Theology of the Body to get some answers.
We get it, this topic isn't easy. Reach out to us, we want to hear from you!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
or email us at **podcast@ellenholloway.com
***Please note this podcast no longer uses Patreon. If you'd like to support the podcast, please email podcast@ellenholloway.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
You're looking at your chart and you see the signs of ovulation and know phase 3 is coming. You're excited to finally be able to come together with your spouse after abstaining for a few weeks, the first time is great....then... well you're tired, you just don't feel like it, and suddenly phase 3 is over and you're looking ahead at more time of abstinence.
Sound familiar? We've been there and in a lot of ways, we're still there! Let's chat about some things you can do to increase your desire in phase 3!
Looking for Lingerie? Shop Mentionables, one of our partners here. Use code ELLEN10 for 10% off too!
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
or email us at **podcast@ellenholloway.com
***Please note this podcast no longer uses Patreon. If you'd like to support the podcast, please email podcast@ellenholloway.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Are you checking off the "NFP box" or is your heart really in it? We're bringing you this podcast episode to encourage you and your spouse to dig a little deeper into your "why" behind using NFP in your marriage.
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
or email us at **podcast@ellenholloway.com
***Please note this podcast no longer uses Patreon. If you'd like to support the podcast, please email podcast@ellenholloway.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Kathleen takes over today and interviews Ellen about the past, present and future of the podcast. We chat about what started the podcast and where the spirit is leading us for the future of the podcast.
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
or email us at **podcast@ellenholloway.com
***Please note this podcast no longer uses Patreon. If you'd like to support the podcast, please email podcast@ellenholloway.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Having trouble with discerning God's call for your family planning intentions? So are we! Join us to chat about discernment and we'll share with you the biggest secret to discernment.
Spoiler alert! It's prayer.
Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode?
NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching might be for you! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
or email us at **podcast@ellenholloway.com
***Please note this podcast no longer uses Patreon. If you'd like to support the podcast, please email podcast@ellenholloway.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Rachel Mullet Joins us to share her experience both with using the Birth Control Pill and then later sharing her experience with others and encouraging Natural Family Planning instead. Listen in for great tips on how to talk about this difficult subject with others!
I offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
Ever wondered what it really means that marriage is ordered to procreation? Why do we sometimes get people who think the only reason for marriage is having children?
The primary end of marriage is procreation, but what does that mean for us and how do we work that into our discernment of avoiding or achieving pregnancy?
I offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
Hey there! Welcome to this special bonus episode in partnership with FOCUS. This episode is also posted on the SEEK podcast! If you're in college and you haven't signed up for SEEK yet, now is the time. Click here for more info on SEEK23
Reach out to the Charting Toward Intimacy team on Instagram @chartingtowardintimacy or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
Charting For Single Women from Pearl and Thistle
Charting As a Single Woman podcast episode - Charting Toward Intimacy Podcast Episode
General Fertility Awareness and Natural Family Planning Resources
fabmbase.org
managingyourfertility.org
Secular resources on Fertility Awareness
Taking Charge of your Fertility
Facts about Fertility - for doctors by doctors
Natural Womanhood
I offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
Ever been in a position to talk to a teen or young adult about NFP or Fertility Awareness and been unsure about how to approach it? Monica and Renzo Ortega are on to share about their experience being in a mentor roll with teens and young adults as youth ministers and how they navigate these sensative conversation topics.
Monica and Renzo on Instagram
I offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
Travelling soon? We've got tips for charting while you're traveling. Listen in for what to do when you're going to loose a day traveling, be in a different time zone, or maybe you're expecting your fertile window to close the day you are on an airplane all day long.
Magic Mind is the sponsor of this week's episode. Check them out at magicmind.co/intimacy
use code INTIMACY20 at check out to save 20% off of a one time purchase or 40% off total off of a subscription (only valid for the next 10 days)!
I offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
or email us at podcast@ellenholloway.com
The state of NFP in Marriage Prep is....well terrible. Kathleen and I have some thoughts and I have a program that has been working incredibly well that I can't wait to share with you!
If you are interested in NFP Basics the NFP Marriage prep module that we mention in this week's episode, email nfpbasics@ellenholloway.com or visit: ellenholloway.com/nfp-basics
Magic Mind is the sponsor of this week's episode. Check them out at magicmind.co/intimacy
use code INTIMACY20 at check out to save 20% off of a one time purchase or 40% off total off of a subscription (only valid for the next 10 days)!
I offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for...
Kathleen and I dive into the theological implications of NFP and the fact that NFP really exists as a solution to a modern problem we have because of Original Sin.
Magic Mind is the sponsor of this week's episode. Check them out at magicmind.co/intimacy
use code INTIMACY20 at check out to save 20% off of a one time purchase or 40% off total off of a subscription (only valid for the next 10 days)!
I offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for...
This conversation with Holly Baril is fascinating! We chat about her experience using and teaching the Creighton Model for over 20 years.
Sneak peak: She would love to throw the chart out the window because charting is hard work and she's been doing it for what feels like forever, but she won't give it up because of the health benefits and knowledge of her body!
Connect with Holly on Instagram
I offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for...
Brittany Pearson joins us to chat about the pelvic floor and how the health of your pelvic floor affects your life and especially your sex life! Find out more about Brittany here.
Looking for more on the pelvic floor? Check out episode 70 with Jen of Tighten Your Tinkler.
Looking for relief from pelvic floor issues? Tighten Your Tinkler's signature program is for you!
I offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for...
You've got femtech questions, we've got answers. We're running through a whole bunch of tech like Tempdrop, Natural Cycles, Daysy, Apple Watch, Clearblue, Ava, Mira, and Inito to give you some insight into where you can use these things in your fertility awareness journey (and which ones you definitely can't use, at least not yet).
Interested in TempDrop? Get 10% off with code CHARTINGTOWARDINTIMACY
I offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
Christy Murray is back with us to discuss cycle irregularity, what it is, what's normal, and what you should do if you have irregularities. Christy came on the podcast before to share her journey through infertility - listen to episode 68 here.
I offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
What is the degree to which you idolize sex? Kathleen and I chat about what an idol is vs an icon and how we need to shift sex from being an idol to being an icon.
I offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
Welcome to our NFP through the seasons series! We'll go from Adolescence to Perimenopause and everything in between.
We made it to Perimenopause. This is the last episode in this series because it's the last season of charting that a woman would naturally have. Mary Finnigan joins us to chat about perimenopause and what you might expect when you head into the season of lessening fertility.
I offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
Welcome to our NFP through the seasons series! We'll go from Adolescence to Perimenopause and everything in between.
This week's topic is NFP during the postpartum season. Kristi from @postpartumgrace is joining us this week. If you're in it now, soon to be, or know someone in this season, this episode is a must listen! We talk methods, burnout, lack of sleep, health, mental capacity for charting, Baby Blues, PPA and PPD, and more!
I offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
Welcome to our NFP through the seasons series! We'll go from Adolescence to Perimenopause and everything in between.
This week's topic is NFP when TTC (trying to conceive) when it's "difficult". Courtney Warday is joining us this week. What we mean by difficult is when you've been in this season for a while, maybe you're working with fertility specialists or a NaPro doctor, maybe you go in and out of hope, disappointment, resentment, longing, and so many more emotions. This episode is for you!
I offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
Thank you to Kegg for sponsoring today's episode. Use code charting10 for $10 off at kegg.tech
Welcome to our NFP through the seasons series! We'll go from Adolescence to Perimenopause and everything in between.
This week's topic is NFP when TTC (trying to conceive) when it's "easy". What we mean by easy is those of us who find ourselves pregnant before we even planned it or who decide to try and then get pregnant within just a cycle or two. Kathleen is here to share some thoughts and insights on this season which could be as short as a few hours!
I offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
Welcome to our NFP through the seasons series! We'll go from Adolescence to Perimenopause and everything in between.
This week's topic is NFP use when Trying to Avoid (TTA) with irregularities in your cycle. Dr. Lisa Kimbell joins us to chat charting with both normal and abnormal cycle irregularities (think postpartum vs. charting with PCOS) and how NFP can still effectively be used during these seasons.
NaPro
FEMM Health
NEO Fertility
I offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
Welcome to our NFP through the seasons series! We'll go from Adolescence to Perimenopause and everything in between.
This week's topic is NFP use when Trying to Avoid (TTA) in general. Jen and Logan of Surprised by Marriage join us this week.
Check out their resources: https://surprisedbymarriage.com/
I offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
Welcome to our NFP through the seasons series! We'll go from Adolescence to Perimenopause and everything in between.
Our second topic is NFP use when you're newly married and TTA (Trying to Avoid)
I offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
Welcome to our NFP through the seasons series! We'll go from Adolescence to Perimenopause and everything in between.
Our second topic is charting as a single woman with Taryn DeLong
Find her on Instagram
I offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
Welcome to our NFP through the seasons series! We'll go from Adolescence to Perimenopause and everything in between.
We are starting with Charting in Adolescence with Hanna Cox
Find her on Instagram
Introducing your daughter to charting download
I offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
Get ready for a great conversation about faith and reproductive healthcare. We know they are both important on their own, but they make even more sense together!
Reach out to Mary Kate Knorr:
Mary Kate's Instagram
Feminae Vero Instagram
https://www.femvero.org/
I offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
Hey guys! this episode gets pretty personal as Kathleen and I process the emotions behind the possibility that I (Ellen) am pregnant with a method error pregnancy. This is something that a lot of us using NFP have either experienced or are scared of experiencing. Listen in for a real life conversation processing the possibility of being pregnant when I really don't want to be.
Wondering what the outcome is? You'll have to listen to the end when I share.
In a similar situation or feel like you need someone to talk to about other NFP related issues?
I offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out to Ellen at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
BBT, MM, CM, CrM, STM, DPO, P+3...... ever looked at all of those letters and numbers and wondered what they all mean?
We power through ALLL of them (or as many as we could find).
This episode's a long one, but definitely listen to the end because we talk about some of the problematic acronyms and phrases we use and why we should stop using them.
I offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out to Ellen at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
Ever wondered how to go about confessing sexual sin, especially when you're embarrassed or feel shame around it? Fr. Matthew and I chat about these situations and some suggestions when it comes to sexual sin.
I offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out to Ellen at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
Filled with His Love: Strengthening Attachment Relationships
Welcome to the Filled with His Love podcast, the only podcast that draws upon both...
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Hot takes here in this episode. We hear a lot of resentment about NFP, and Kathleen and I have been through those seasons of resentment as well, we're not immune to the struggles of NFP, but sometimes it's taken too far and the way NFP is talked about becomes entirely negative. NFP also sometimes gets blamed for all the problems in a marriage, and the thing is, NFP is a magnifying glass for problems already present in a marriage between two fallen humans.
Marriage ministries we suggest:
https://www.canafeast.com/
https://www.joyfuleverafter.org/
I offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out to Ellen at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
The Two Fish Podcast : A Christian Bible Study Made Simple
The Two Fish Podcast, hosted by Nick and Aaron, is a Christian Bible Study, with a goal...
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Dr. Sarah Bartel is back for part 2! We had so much response from our first episode on licit and illicit acts and we didn't have time to cover everything. We dig into a few more topics here like pornography and imaginative play.
Interested in checking out the Abundant workshop mentioned at the end? It's available until June 9, 2022. Head to https://abundant.canafeast.com/cti
If you purchase the abundant workshop though this link you'll also get a 1-hour coaching session with me.
The FREE Little Way of Marriage Course is also still available until June 9, 2022: http://www.littlewayofmarriage.com/cti
If you have more questions about licit and illicit acts, book a coaching session with me below!
I offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out to Ellen at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
Ever had the thought that Prudence and Generosity are opposites? So have we, but after careful study, we've realized they are inextricably linked and one really leads to the other if we are practicing a life of virtue!
Did you listen to last epsiode? The FREE Little Way of Marriage Workshop is available until June 9, 2022. Head to http://www.littlewayofmarriage.com/cti everyone who signs up through this link will be entered into a drawing for a free coaching session with me!
I offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out to Ellen at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
For the Love of Podcast
Learn what the best podcasters in the world are doing to stand out!
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Dr. Sarah Bartel joins us to chat about licit and illicit acts when it comes to sex. With her doctorate in moral theology, she's definitely a great person to ask these questions to! Sarah also shares about she and her husband's marriage workshop in which they have a great module on sex which includes licit and illicit acts. I picked Sarah's brain about a couple common questions I get on the topic namely female orgasm, manual stimulation, and lingerie!
Interested in checking out the free Little Way of Marriage Workshop and the premium Abundant workshop? It's available until June 9, 2022. Head to http://www.littlewayofmarriage.com/cti
If you have more questions about licit and illicit acts, book a coaching session with me below!
I offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out to Ellen at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
For the Love of Podcast
Learn what the best podcasters in the world are doing to stand out!
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Jenn of Tighten Your Tinkler joins us to talk about the pelvic floor and how pelvic floor disfunction is something that is common, but not normal. I repeat, NOT NORMAL. If you're seeing signs of pelvic floor disfunction, that's something you need to start looking into so that it doesn't become a bigger issue later in life.
Personal disclaimer: I signed up for their signature program and I cannnot sing its praises enough. I loved the program and it helped with my personal symptoms I was seeing after 2 children. I highly encourage all of you to check out the Tighten Your Tinkler program and consider signing up!
Purchase the Tighten Your Tinkler Signature Program here!
Here's the quiz we mentioned on the episode.
I offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out to Ellen at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
For the Love of Podcast
Learn what the best podcasters in the world are doing to stand out!
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Sex and arousal is very different throughout the cycle and Kathleen and I get into specifics about things that will work and things that won't during different phases of the cycle.
Marked explicit because we talk about specific positions, as always, please exercise prudence when listening to Charting Toward Intimacy episodes where others can hear
I now offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out to Ellen at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
This Infertility Awareness Week, we're sharing another story of a woman who has been through infertility and found help in natural remedies and restorative medicine, especially diet and rest! Listen in as Christy Murray shares her journey with us and her tips.
Links:
www.healthylifequiz.com
Christy's Website: www.blueveilwellness.com
Free download mentioned on the episode www.fertilityboostingfoods.com
I now offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out to Ellen at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
This is a follow up episode to episode 66! If you haven't listened to Tricia's story, be sure to go back and take a listen to the episode right before this! We have Tricia back to share the thoughts and feelings of facing infertility, especially the feeling that God and the church kept saying no instead of actually helping her.
Are you feeling like the church also keeps telling you no?
I now offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out to Ellen at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
Tricia joins us to share her NFP and infertility journey and how NaPro played a huge roll in her and her husband being able to conceive a child.
Interested in learning more about IVF or perforated condoms? Check out the episodes on IVF with Melissa Buccan episodes 50 and 51! Part 1 and Part 2
I now offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out to Ellen at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
Get ready to laugh. Kathleen and I are sharing stories from the trenches of NFP life. The stories that happen when your kids find your "stuff," the stories that happen when you host a podcast about NFP and someone recognizes your name at a wedding, the stories that happen when you meet another Catholic mom and finally breach the "do you use NFP?" question.
Ellen now offers NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out to Ellen at https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
We're joined by Kerigan (@catholicgirlwellness) to talk about working your life in step with your cycle can change everything! Listen in for tips on scheduling around your cycle and modifying things like workouts, social engagements, and work if you can!
Ellen now offers NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out to Ellen at https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
Raise your hand if you're a crappy charter! Kathleen and Ellen both are sometimes and we talk about why it's not good to be a crappy charter and how to overcome it if you're in a season of crappy charting.
Ellen now offers NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62.
If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out to Ellen at https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
Emily Frase comes to share with us her experience in coaching people in NFP and FA mindset over the past year.
This is something new Ellen is offering starting immediately. If you are interested in booking a coaching session with Ellen, click here for NFP/FA mindset coaching and click here for method match coaching.
Reach out to Ellen at https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
At this time Emily is not accepting new clients. These show notes will be updated when Emily begins accepting new clients again. Stay connected with Emily on Instagram in the mean time
Ever wondered what Chastity ACTUALLY is. Kathleen and Ellen break it down from the Catechism and call out all the wrong and negative definitions we've had about chastity our whole lives.
Guess what "all the baptized are called to chastity" (CCC 2348)
Buy yourself a copy of the Catechism
Reach out to Ellen at chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com or Instagram @chartingtowardintimacy
Kristen Jensen joins us to discuss healthy nutrition for your cycle. She's a wealth of knowledge, so be sure to have a notepad when you listen to this episode!
For 20% off of any of Kristen's courses including her fertility course for using food to maximize your fertility use code podcast20 on her website: https://www.nourishedforliferd.com/
If you'd like the visual Kristen mentioned, send me an email!
Reach out to Ellen at chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com or Instagram @chartingtowardintimacy
Happy Valentine's Day! We threw a little bonus episode in here for you because it's Valentine's Day and you might have to sit in the suck of needing to abstain today. Don't worry, you're not alone!
Gottman Card Decks App
Reach out to Ellen at chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com or Instagram @chartingtowardintimacy
Our first NFP IRL episode with co-host Kathleen and we are talking about Providentialism vs responsible parenthood. You might find after listening that it's less a "vs" rather a partnership between the two terms throughout the different seasons of your journey with NFP.
Reach out to Ellen at chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com or https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
If you want to read along:
Humanae Vitae Definition: With regard to the biological processes, responsible parenthood means an awareness of, and respect for, their proper functions. In the procreative faculty the human mind discerns biological laws that apply to the human person. (9)
With regard to man's innate drives and emotions, responsible parenthood means that man's reason and will must exert control over them.
With regard to physical, economic, psychological and social conditions, responsible parenthood is exercised by those who prudently and generously decide to have more children, and by those who, for serious reasons and with due respect to moral precepts, decide not to have additional children for either a certain or an indefinite period of time.
USSCB definition: Responsible parenthood requires that husband and wife understand God's design for marriage—that it is love-giving (unitive) and life-giving (procreative). Spouses ought to be well-formed in understanding Church teaching and reflect upon their responsibilities toward each other, children already born, and the wider society when deciding when to attempt to conceive or not.
Announcing a new type of Charting Toward Intimacy episode called NFP IRL (in real life) co-hosted with Kathleen Chovanes. These episodes are going to have a particular focus on the ups and downs of using NFP in your day to day real life. Charting Toward Intimacy is back February 7 with our first NFP IRL episode. NFP IRL is going to be every other Charting Toward Intimacy Episode
Bekah from Feminine Genius Ministries joins us to chat on the harmful views of sex and intimacy we have going into marriage and how those are affected by and how they affect NFP use.
Here's some of the resources we mentioned
Theology of the Body
Christopher West
Our Bodies Tell God's Story (This is what Bekah mentioned was written for a Protestant audience)
Theology of the Body for Beginners
Good News About Sex and Marriage
Holy Sex!
To Love, Honor and Vacuum blog (Please note this is not a Catholic resource and does not share the same views of this podcast and the Catholic Church on birth control and NFP. This is however a resource for breaking down the views on men always lusting and women needing to always be available to their husbands)
Reach out to Ellen at
chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com or https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
What is the big deal with the wedding night and honeymoon when it has to do with sex? Is there a way to plan around your fertile time if you're trying to avoid a pregnancy? What do you do now that sex is on the table when its been off the table for so long?
This episode is here to answer those questions and more. Klarissa and Jonathan Chichioco join us to discuss these
SPICE: using the abstinence times to pursue Spiritual, (non-sexual) Physical, Intellectual, Creative, and Emotional intimacy.
Reach out to Ellen at
chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com or https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
We are joined by Rachel Alba to chat about good, pleasurable sex! This episode is specific and the content is tailored toward adult women, please keep that in mind before you blast this episode in the breakroom.
Reach out to Rachel: https://www.instagram.com/rachel.alba.coaching/
Reach out to Ellen at
chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com or https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
I'm here today sharing the two experiences I've had with postpartum doctor's appointments and the dreaded "what kind of birth control do you want?" question.
Reach out at chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com or https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
Jaime Murphy (@followingmybody) joins us to discuss the side of abstinence we don't hear about all too often: what it actually helps with in a marriage.
Want to learn about the 5 love languages? https://www.5lovelanguages.com/
Connect with Ellen at chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com or https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
Ben and Emily join us to share their NFP journey which involves a phone call to an unknown person while decorating the nursery in order to learn about NFP. Let's say it together everyone: It shouldn't be that hard to learn about NFP!
Learn more about Emily and her podcast Wholly a Woman:
https://www.instagram.com/nfppharmacist/
https://nfppharmacist.com/podcasts/
Connect with Ellen at chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com or https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
Melissa Buchan joins us to discuss IVF. This episode is broken into two parts. In this second episode we continue our discussion and dive into some of the moral and theological implications of IVF. Last week we gave an overview of IVF and talked through some of the physical implications. Be sure to listen to part 1 if you haven't already!
If you'd like to connect with Melissa or learn more about the work she does here are some links!
melissabuchan.com
https://www.melissabuchan.com/discoverycall
chartneo.com
Connect with Ellen at chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com or https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
Melissa Buchan joins us to discuss IVF. This episode is broken into two parts. In this first episode we discuss more of the physical aspects and implications of IVF and in next week's episode we discuss some of the moral and theological implications of IVF.
If you'd like to connect with Melissa or learn more about the work she does here are some links!
melissabuchan.com
https://www.melissabuchan.com/discoverycall
chartneo.com
Connect with Ellen at chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com or https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
Annie and Sarah from Laughs and Littles join us to talk about spacing births. We cover it all from surprise pregnancies, maternal health, your sex life, your cycle health, and more!
Reach out to Annie and Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/laughs_and_littles/
Reach out to Ellen at chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com or https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
Danielle Thompson joins us to share about her journey with NFP through the lens of infertility. This episode is a must listen for anyone who is struggling, has struggled or knows someone struggling with any type of infertility.
Connect with Danielle: https://www.instagram.com/dani_jenee/
Reach out to Ellen at chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com or https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
Amy Karney joins us to share her journey of 20+ years with NFP. I loved getting to hear from someone who has such wonderful experience of many years of marriage to share with us, and I know you will too!
Reach out to Amy: https://www.instagram.com/amy.karney/
Reach out to Ellen at chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com or https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
Things we talked about:
The Woman School
Holy Sex by Dr. Gregory Popcak
Megan Faller (@thealignedcycle) joins us to talk about her work in helping women work their life into the natural rhythms of their cycles! She shares with us the 4 phases she has developed and what you can try to focus on during these different phases of your cycle. This episode is going to be one to share with your friends!
Reach out to Megan:
Website: https://thealignedcycle.com
IG: https://www.instagram.com/thealignedcycle/
Work Aligned Guide: https://thealignedcycle.com/?page_id=463
Reach out to Ellen at chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com or https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
Jamie is joining us to share her NFP journey!
Reach out to me at chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com or https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
Fr. Mario Rizzo from St. Joseph Basilica in Alameda, CA joins us to discuss NFP ministry in the parish. We talk about where NFP can fit, creating an integrated pro-life/respect life ministry that encompasses all aspects of life including respect of the marital act and marital intimacy, and a few suggestions as to what you can do to bring NFP ministry to your parish.
Reach out to me at chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com or https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
We are joined by Ellen Mitchell, FertilityCare Practitioner Intern and fellow lover of helping others figure out the best FABM for them!
We're talking through some basic questions you can ask yourself to discern what the best fertility awareness based method is for you. The questions are below! This episode has been split into a part 1 and a part 2.
Want a nice pretty version of the questions with space to write in your thoughts and answers? Email chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com or message me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
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How regular are your cycles? Regular is anything in the range of about 23-35 days. Do you want to seek medical help for regulating your cycles?
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Is cost a factor for choosing a method of Fertility Awareness?
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How would you most like to chart? Paper charts, app on your phone, online charting, doesn’t matter, etc.
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How committed are you to charting? Charting doesn’t take a long time, but some methods do require a bit more effort and/or time.
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How much data would you like? Some methods are simple with just one sign charted and some offer multiple signs to crosscheck.
End of Part 1
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Is your schedule similar day to day or different daily? For example, do you work shift work and often sleep and wake up at different times or do you typically wake up at the same time daily?
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How do you feel about using technology with a Fertility Awareness Based Method? Some methods rely on your personal observations of biomarkers throughout your cycle, some rely on a monitor or thermometer to give objective data, and some are a combination of both. What would you say is your level of trust in your ability to observe your body signs (keep in mind instructors work with you to ensure you are confident in charting your signs)? What would you say your level of trust is in relying on some form of technology (monitor, thermometer, etc.) to give you data?
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What is your short-term goal? What stage of life are you in right now (getting married soon, single and want to chart for knowledge, postpartum, perimenopause, etc.)?
We are joined by Ellen Mitchell, FertilityCare Practitioner Intern and fellow lover of helping others figure out the best FABM for them!
We're talking through some basic questions you can ask yourself to discern what the best fertility awareness based method is for you. The questions are below! This episode has been split into a part 1 and a part 2.
Want a nice pretty version of the questions with space to write in your thoughts and answers? Email chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com or message me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
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How regular are your cycles? Regular is anything in the range of about 23-35 days. Do you want to seek medical help for regulating your cycles?
-
Is cost a factor for choosing a method of Fertility Awareness?
-
How would you most like to chart? Paper charts, app on your phone, online charting, doesn’t matter, etc.
-
How committed are you to charting? Charting doesn’t take a long time, but some methods do require a bit more effort and/or time.
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How much data would you like? Some methods are simple with just one sign charted and some offer multiple signs to crosscheck.
End of Part 1
___________________________________
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Is your schedule similar day to day or different daily? For example, do you work shift work and often sleep and wake up at different times or do you typically wake up at the same time daily?
-
How do you feel about using technology with a Fertility Awareness Based Method? Some methods rely on your personal observations of biomarkers throughout your cycle, some rely on a monitor or thermometer to give objective data, and some are a combination of both. What would you say is your level of trust in your ability to observe your body signs (keep in mind instructors work with you to ensure you are confident in charting your signs)? What would you say your level of trust is in relying on some form of technology (monitor, thermometer, etc.) to give you data?
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What is your short-term goal? What stage of life are you in right now (getting married soon, single and want to chart for knowledge, postpartum, perimenopause, etc.)?
This episode is covering Sympto-Thermal methods. Be sure to check out the rest of the episodes in this series to learn about the three different method types of FABMs!
Carlos and Mariana who teach with Couple to Couple League are chatting with me (Ellen) who teaches with SymptoPro.
Reach out to Carlos and Mariana: cascafu@gmail.com
Reach out to Ellen and the podcast: https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
Couple to Couple League: https://ccli.org/
SymptoPro: https://www.symptopro.org/
This is episode two in a series on finding the right method for you. We are discussing Sympto-Hormonal methods of fertility awareness. We have Theresa Sullivan, CCRN, BSN who teaches the Marquette Method, Ulrika Drevniok who teaches FEMM, and Christina Valenzuela who teaches Boston Cross Check.
Want to learn more about the methods we talked about?
Marquette Method: www.marquettemethod.com
FEMM: https://femmhealth.org/
Boston Cross Check: https://www.bostoncrosscheck.com/
Other helpful links:
Whole Mission (Marquette method): https://www.mmnfp.com/
Femme Fertility (Marquette method): https://www.femmefertilitynfp.com/
TrueFem (FEMM): https://www.truefem.org/
Feel free to reach out to the instructors we talked to via the links on their names above!
Questions, comments, suggestions about the podcast?
https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
This is episode one in a series on finding the right method for you. We are discussing Mucus-Only methods of fertility awareness. We have Flenje Rose Oaferina who teaches Billings Ovulation Method and we have Lisa Morvant who is a Creighton Model Instructor.
Want to learn more about the methods we talked about?
Billings Ovulation Method: https://www.boma-usa.org/
Creighton Model FertilityCare: https://fertilitycare.org/
NaPro Technology: https://fertilitycare.org/
Feel free to reach out to the instructors we talked to via the Instagram links above!
Questions, comments, suggestions about the podcast?
https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
We're joined by Justine Gabner who shares her NFP story that involves a true reversion to the Catholic faith because of learning about NFP!
Reach out to us:
https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
We're back with another NFP journey episode. This week Kathleen shares with us her journey. This episode follows up very nicely to the previous two episode about abstinence. Kathleen and her husband were both on different sides of the spectrum of abstinence and it took good, deep, and difficult communication to get on the same page. Be sure to check out both the "When Abstinence is Really Hard" and "When Abstinence isn't as Hard" episodes!
Things we mentioned:
Love languages: https://www.5lovelanguages.com/
Exodus 90: https://exodus90.com/
Mentionables Lingerie: https://shopmentionables.com/
Follow the podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
Send Ellen and email: chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
Check out last week's episode for the first installment in this series when we talked about when abstinence is really hard. This episode is focused on when abstinence isn't as hard! Spoiler alert: If you find yourself in either situation at any point in your marriage, that's OK! You're normal. The most important thing you can do is communicate with your spouse how you are feeling.
Reach out to Ellen:
https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
We're talking about the times when abstinence is really hard and what you can do about it. Some of it is practical tips you can take home (or to the bedroom) and some of it involves a mental shift in how we think about abstinence. Emily Frase joins us to dive into this topic.
Connect with Ellen: https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
Connect with Emily: https://www.instagram.com/totalwhine_/ or https://www.instagram.com/fabmbase/
Uterine Isthmocele: https://veritasfertility.com/conditions/uterine-isthmocele/
Sara shares with us her conversion story and NFP journey all wrapped into one! Join us as we dive into another NFP journey to help us all understand, its not easy for anyone and we all have our ups and downs with NFP.
Find Sara: https://www.instagram.com/saragrafcoaching/ or https://www.instagram.com/saragrafpiano/
Have a question, comment, or want to share your NFP journey?
https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
We are here with our first NFP journey episode with Jenna and Paul sharing their journey thus far with NFP.
Attention if you are not yet married: PLEASE make this your story!
Reach out to Jenna and Paul or find the A Shower of Roses podcast: https://www.instagram.com/ashowerofroses/
Want to share your NFP journey or have a question? Reach out to Ellen
https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
This awesome crossover episode with Jamie and Theresa from The Hormone Genius Podcast is about embracing the beauty of your natural design of fertility. We don't need to shut it down with hormonal birth control because your body's not broken, it's fertile.
Find The Hormone Genius Podacast: https://www.hormonegenius.com/the-hormone-genius-podcast/
Find Charting Toward Intimacy: https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
We are joined by Julie Linder a nurse and instructor in the Creighton Model to discuss the benefits of charting before you get married as well as the differences in charting before you get married vs. after you're married!
Reach out to us:
https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
We're joined by Mary Bruno to talk through cycle pain and what the Church's call to use NFP has to say when you're dealing with irregularities in your cycle or intense pain or some other medical issue (hint it's not just "take up your cross"). We also discuss when the Church actually does allow birth control and what those circumstances look like. We additionally speak to making sure you look into all of your options before deciding birth control is your only choice.
Connect with Mary: https://www.instagram.com/takingbacktheterms/
Connect with the podcast:
chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
Oh hey there! This is a redo of the first ever episode of Charting Toward Intimacy.
This episode serves as an introduction into what NFP is. It's a great resource to share with anyone looking for a quick intro into Natural Family Planning!
List of USCCB approved methods of Natural Family Planning and links for more info: https://www.usccb.org/topics/natural-family-planning/nfp-national-providers
Contact us!
chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
This was one of my biggest sticking points with NFP (honestly) before I started using NFP: If the efficacy rates are as good as they say they are, why do people who use NFP have like 5 or more kids?
So we're diving into that this week and talking about what that really reveals about NFP use within a marriage.
Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
Send us an email: chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
*Note to listeners: This episode uses a stereotypical understanding of NFP users as having large families to reveal what NFP use does to our hearts and our marriages. This is not to say all couples who use NFP have large families or that having a larger family is somehow more holy than having a small family. NFP is about working with God to plan your family. God has a perfect plan for your family whether it is two people (you and your spouse) or ten people.
We're joined by Grace Stark to talk about why there is a need to talk about NFP honestly. We've talked on the podcast about how we don't speak honestly about NFP, but why is it exactly that we need to open up and speak more openly and honestly about NFP?
Find Grace: https://graceemilystark.com/
Reach out to us:
https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
Anna Saucier joins us to discuss why we hear the myth that NFP leads to a perfect marriage and that couples who use NFP don't get divorced. We dig into that and discuss where that came from and what part of that is myth and what part of that is misplaced information and what part of that is actually truth.
Find Anna: https://annasaucier.com/
What is a lathe?
Find the podcast: https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
email us chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
We are joined by Amanda Vernon to talk about toxic NFP culture, what it is, what we can do about it, and how we can try not to perpetuate it while talking about NFP in our communities. This conversation is in response to a blog and video about Toxic NFP culture that Amanda put together in July of 2020. Check out the links to that below.
Toxic NFP Culture video on YouTube
Toxic NFP Culture text
Follow Charting Toward Intimacy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
Email us at chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
I've noticed recently there are a lot more people who don't know anything about NFP than people who have negative opinions on NFP...AND this is a really good thing! Let's talk about why.
Email me chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
Christina of Pearl and Thistle joins us to talk about her program Cycle Prep for girls preparing for their first cycles and periods. We discuss why basic fertility awareness isn't a part of normal sex ed when young girls learn about their periods for the first time and what we can do about that!
Find Christina:
https://www.pearlandthistle.com/
https://www.instagram.com/pearlandthistle/
Find the podcast:
https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
email at chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
When we teach that sex is reserved for marriage we need to actually teach WHY. When we just shove abstinence down the throats of teens and don't actually talk about sex and how great it is and what it is for, then we're doing a huge disservice.
So. what can we do about it?
Reach out!
instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy
chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
I am joined by Nora Pope, retired Naturopathic Doctor and Dr. Jessica Liu, Naturopathic Doctor to discuss those questions around the health care field and why fertility awareness isn't more know!
So many links because we talked about so much!
Nora and Dr. Jessica's course for healthcare professionals: https://www.fertilityce.com/
Ina May Gaskin: https://inamay.com/
The Fifth Vital Sign Book by Lisa Hendrickson-Jack on Amazon
Marguerite Duane, MD, MHA, FAAFP at Georgetown University
Questions, comments, just want to chat?
chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
Instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy
Support the podcast: https://www.patreon.com/charting
I'll keep it short an sweet here: a few reasons why you need to learn a fertility awareness based method and NFP in general from an instructor and not a book.
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy
Email: chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
support the podcast: patreon.com/charting
The buzz word of 2020 probably (right alongside of pivot). But what really is self care? And why the heck are we talking about it on a podcast about NFP? Julia Hogan, LCPC joins us for this conversation in defining self care and how it fits in with cycles and fertility awareness!
Find out more about Julia here: https://www.juliamariehogan.com/
Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/
Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/charting
Contact: chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
Why NFP and not some other form of contraception? Why does the Church allow NFP and not the pill?
Hands up if you've heard these questions before! We dive into some accessible answers to these questions and more in this week's episode.
Support the podcast on Patreon: patreon.com/charting
Follow us on instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy
Reach out to me via email: chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
We're joined by Johnna Wilford to talk about working out during our cycles! This episode is definitely more tailored to our female listeners as we're talking about how a woman might specifically feel during workouts at different times of her cycle and how she can optimize working out!
Connect with Johnna at https://www.instagram.com/johnnawilford_/
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/charting
Connect with me on Instagram or email: https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy and chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
We're discussing changing methods and how to assess if the method you are using right now is right for you!
Announcements:
Episodes will be coming out weekly now and you can support Charting Toward Intimacy and my work at patreon.com/charting
Contact me at chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com or instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy
Links to look at new methods or learn more:
https://www.managingyourfertility.com/methods/
https://totalwhine.com/2020/02/19/which-fabm-to-choose-qas-with-instructors-and-users/
https://totalwhine.com/2020/09/17/all-the-single-ladies-who-want-to-learn-fertility-awareness/
Episode questions:
How do I feel overall about NFP? Am I empowered, angry, overwhelmed, too busy to do it well, etc.?
Do I feel confident in charting my signs?
Am I understanding the rules to my method? Does it feel like there are too many rules? Too few?
Am I understanding how to interpret the biomarkers I am charting?
Have I had an unintended pregnancy?
Have I recently gone through (or are going through) a change like pregnancy, childbirth, acute stress, perimenopause? And do I feel like my method is serving me well through this change?
Do I have very few available days during my cycle?
Do I feel overwhelmed with charting?
Joe and Janessa Nufable join us to share their NFP journey in the last episode of our Advent Series. Both Joe and Janessa have been on episodes on the podcast, but we brought them back to do an episode together!
This is the 4th episode in our advent series, if you haven't listened to all of the episodes, go back and look for NFP brings HOPE, Making PEACE with NFP, and Finding JOY in NFP in addition to this episode.
We also have a very exciting announcement when Charting Toward Intimacy is back on January 4th 2021! Happy rest of the Advent Season and Merry Christmas.
Find us on Instagram: instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy or send me an email at chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
My husband Kurt joins me and we share our NFP journey! The joys, the trials, the months on end of abstinence...gloves are off and the whole story is shared.
Need a good book to read about Sex within your marriage? We loved reading Holy Sex! by Gregory Popcak
Welcome to week 2 of our advent 2020 series. This week's theme is Peace. We are joined by Keiru and Aaron who share their NFP journey and how peace fits into the equation of using Natural Family Planning in your marriage.
This is an episode you don't want to miss.
Find us on instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy or email us at chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
This is the first episode in our Advent Series: NFP Brings HOPE.
Anne Marie and Alex join us to share their personal NFP journey and how NFP and Fertility awareness helped them through temporary infertility and ultimately to have their daughter. Anne Marie and Alex share how NFP truly brought hope to their marriage and their journey toward becoming parents.
Questions or comments? Reach out to us on Instagram @chartingtowardintimacy or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
If you are struggling with a similar situation, please know you are not alone. Please reach out to us and we would love to connect you with others who have been through infertility or temporary infertility.
Molly Daley joins us to discuss the finer points of how Natural Family Planning is connected to the Pro Life Movement (hint contraception and pro-life don't go together).
If you want to learn more about Molly, head to bodylanguagelife.com
I'm joined by Emily Frase to dive into why NFP is not just Catholic birth control and really how you can't even compare the two.
Follow Emily Frase at totalwhine.com or on Instagram @totalwhine_
Follow Emily and Mary Bruno's new org FAbM BASE on Instagram @fabmbase
Humanae Vitae: http://www.vatican.va/content/paul-vi/en/encyclicals/documents/hf_p-vi_enc_25071968_humanae-vitae.html
Questions, comments, other opinions? chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com or Instagram @chartingtowardintimacy
Bridget Busacker of Managing Your Fertility (https://www.managingyourfertility.com/) joins the podcast to talk about the issues of NFP Accessibility including cost and information dissemination. We bring up more questions than answers and come to the conclusions that if NFP is going to be more accessible then it needs to start with all of us expanding the NFP conversation and stepping up to help in our local communities and parishes.
Have ideas or questions? Reach out to Ellen at chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com or on Instagram @chartingtowardintimacy
There are a lot of terms and acronyms that float around the NFP and FA world (like those two acronyms). There's also a lot of different ways people define those terms. In this super short bonus episode, Ellen is here to define some of those terms in the way that we will be using them here on this podcast.
This is not to say these are the only possible definitions of these terms, it's just to help you and other listeners understand when we use these terms and acronyms.
Have a different definition or still confused? Did I miss an important term that we need to define? Connect with us on Instagram @chartingtowardintimacy or email us at chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
In this episode we are joined by Martha. Martha shares with us her experiences talking with siblings and parents about NFP and Fertility Awareness. Join us to discuss how we can best approach these conversations within our own families.
Reach out to us on Instagram @chartingtowardintimacy
This is the last episode in our "Talking to ___ about NFP" series. We will do this series again in spring of 2021, so if you have a topic you'd like us to cover, let us know!
chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com
In this week's episode, Yolanda joins us again to discuss one of our most asked for topics, talking to your doctor about NFP. We share our hilarious bad examples of what we've done when talking to our doctors and share some tips for the next time you are asked the "So what do you want to do for birth control?" question.
We also discuss a great resource for doctors and medical professionals: https://www.factsaboutfertility.org/
We are joined by Peggy Murray in today's episode who is a wife, mother, Symptothermal Method instructor, and an overall amazing woman! Peggy gives us some great ideas and tips for keeping the conversation open, honest, and comfortable with children of all ages about Natural Family Planning and Theology of the Body.
We talk about a few resources in the episode, so check them out if you are interested!
Theology of the Body books for all ages from TOBET: https://tobet.org/product-category/bookstore/
Teenstar program: http://www.teenstar.org/
Endow Youth Studies: https://endow-groups.myshopify.com/collections/youth-studies
Theology of the Body online parent/student study program from Ascension Press: https://ascensionpress.com/products/you-life-love-and-the-theology-of-the-body-student-pack
We are joined by Janessa Nufable to discuss talking to your friends about NFP.
This is the first in a series of episodes: "Talking to ___ about NFP." If you have someone in your life that you would like tips on talking to about NFP, shoot us a message on Instagram @chartingtowardintimacy or email us at chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com.
I'm joined by Joe Nufable for this episode where we talk about prayer within your marriage (and making it a part of your foreplay). We touch on desirability, redefining the word foreplay, and suggestions for engaged couples and those who are single.
Today we chat with Dn. Tim Roberto from the Diocese of Oakland on discovering God's love through spousal intimacy. Hint: talk about it!
If you're not married, don't worry there's some awesome nuggets for you too!
We touch a a tiny bit on the Theology of the Body (TOB) in this episode. For more info, resources, and courses on TOB, check out https://tobinstitute.org/
Charting Toward Intimacy is sponsored by the Diocese of Oakland. Check us out on Instagram @chartingtowardintimacy
In this episode we are joined by two guests who share their personal stories with NFP.
Rose shares how NFP helped her through her struggle with infertility and helped her have her daughter.
Jorge shares about his reversion to the Catholic Church and how his discovery of the Theology of the Body lead to learning about NFP and how he fell in love with the practice as he brought it to his marriage.
There are many things we wish we knew about NFP before we started! Yolanda joins us in this episode to talk about some of the different methods of NFP and how it would have been so helpful to know that they all existed. We also touch on how some women change to different methods throughout their NFP journey.
If you feel like your method isn't working well for you, check out some other methods. The list below is not exhaustive, these are just the methods we spoke the most about in this episode.
Symptothermal:
https://www.symptopro.org/
https://ccli.org/
Marquette:
https://www.marquette.edu/nursing/natural-family-planning-model.php
Billings Ovulation Method:
https://billings.life/en/
Creighton Model:
https://www.creightonmodel.com/
Need a quick introduction to NFP? In this episode, we give a quick overview of NFP including fertility awareness and the discernment and prayer with your spouse and God.
Ellen Holloway is the host of Charting Toward Intimacy, she and her husband Kurt (featured in this episode) are instructors in the Symptopro symptothermal method of Natural Family Planning.
Have questions about this episode? Reach out to us on Instagram @chartingtowardintimacy!
Welcome to Charting Toward Intimacy where we are expanding the natural family planing conversation! Listen in for an introduction on what we plan to do here.
Launching in July 20 for NFP awareness week! Expect episodes every other Monday, but in honor of our launch and NFP week, three episodes will be out next week!