Advertise on podcast: Dr. Jeff Talks about Sex and Intimacy

Many people long for deeper intimacy, yet find themselves feeling disconnected—from their partners, their own bodies, and even their authentic sexual desire. One often overlooked contributor is problematic pornography use, which can reshape the brain's reward system, reinforce performance-based sexuality, and make genuine emotional and physical connection more difficult. In this episode of Dr. Jeff Talks About Sex & Intimacy, Dr. Jeff welcomes Alexandra Katehakis, PhD, LMFT, CST, licensed marriage and family therapist, certified sex therapist, author, and educator specializing in sexuality, intimacy, trauma, and the treatment of problematic pornography use and compulsive sexual behavior. We will explore how compulsive pornography use can affect the brain's reward system, reshape patterns of desire and arousal, and create barriers to authentic emotional and sexual connection. Dr. Katehakis explains the neuroscience behind these behaviors, the role of attachment and trauma in their development, and why shame is rarely an effective catalyst for lasting change.The conversation also examines how mindfulness, self-awareness, and evidence-based therapeutic approaches can help individuals break free from compulsive patterns, reconnect with their bodies, and cultivate healthier, more satisfying intimate relationships. Dr. Katehakis shares practical strategies for moving beyond performance-based sexuality toward genuine presence, emotional vulnerability, and authentic intimacy. *The expert's opinions in this communication are personal and not representative of any organization. They are for informational purposes only, not official guidance. Viewers are advised to use their judgment, seek additional advice, and take responsibility for any actions based on these opinions.

When a couple struggles to conceive, the focus often falls on female fertility—but male factors contribute to nearly half of all infertility cases. Understanding male reproductive health is essential for couples hoping to build a family. In this episode of Dr. Jeff Talks About Sex & Intimacy, Dr. Jeff welcomes Dr. Robert E. Brannigan, a nationally recognized urologist and expert in male reproductive medicine from Northwestern Medicine, for an enlightening presentation and conversation about male fertility evaluation and optimization. Dr. Brannigan will explore what every man should know about fertility, including when to seek an evaluation, the role of semen analysis, hormonal testing, genetic factors, and common medical conditions that can impact sperm production and reproductive potential. Dr. Brannigan also discusses lifestyle factors—including nutrition, exercise, weight, sleep, stress, alcohol, smoking, cannabis, environmental exposures, and medications—that may influence fertility and what men can do to optimize their reproductive health. Whether you're actively trying to conceive, planning for the future, or simply interested in learning more about men's reproductive health, this episode provides practical insights, hope, and expert guidance to help you better understand male fertility and the steps that can make a meaningful difference. *The expert's opinions in this communication are personal and not representative of any organization. They are for informational purposes only, not official guidance. Viewers are advised to use their judgment, seek additional advice, and take responsibility for any actions based on these opinions.

Receiving a diagnosis of prostate cancer can feel overwhelming, bringing with it uncertainty, difficult decisions, and many questions about the future. In this informative episode of Dr. Jeff Talks About Sex & Intimacy, Dr. Jeffrey Albaugh welcomes Abhinav Sidana for an expert presentation entitled "Facing Prostate Cancer: Navigating Diagnosis to Treatment." Dr. Sidana guides listeners through the prostate cancer journey, from understanding PSA testing, MRI, and biopsy results to interpreting risk categories and exploring today's treatment options. He discusses active surveillance, surgery, radiation therapy, focal therapy, and systemic treatments, while explaining how each approach is tailored to an individual's cancer, overall health, and personal goals. Whether you are newly diagnosed, currently undergoing treatment, living as a survivor, supporting a loved one, or simply seeking to better understand prostate cancer, this episode provides clear, compassionate, and evidence-based guidance to help you make informed decisions with confidence and hope. *The expert's opinions in this communication are personal and not representative of any organization. They are for informational purposes only, not official guidance. Viewers are advised to use their judgment, seek additional advice, and take responsibility for any actions based on these opinions.

In this highly anticipated follow-up episode of Dr. Jeff Talks About Sex & Intimacy, we welcome back the dynamic duo of Sue Goldstein, CCRC, and Irwin Goldstein, MD, from San Diego Sexual Medicine to explore what’s new and evolving right now in the world of sexual health. Since our last conversation, research and treatment options have continued to advance—bringing fresh possibilities for both men and women experiencing sexual dysfunction. Whether you’re staying current as a provider or looking for new options as a patient or partner, this episode offers a forward-looking, evidence-based perspective on where sexual medicine is headed—and what that means for improving quality of life and connection. *The expert's opinions in this communication are personal and not representative of any organization. They are for informational purposes only, not official guidance. Viewers are advised to use their judgment, seek additional advice, and take responsibility for any actions based on these opinions.

September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month—a time to raise awareness about prostate cancer, encourage informed conversations about screening and diagnosis, and remind patients and families that they do not have to face this disease alone. In this special episode of Dr. Jeff Talks About Sex & Intimacy, Dr. Jeffrey Albaugh welcomes Jeremy Patch and Victoria Vighetto from ZERO Prostate Cancer to discuss the many ways education, support, advocacy, and community can make a difference throughout the prostate cancer journey. This conversation is particularly meaningful to Dr. Jeff, who facilitates a monthly Zero prostate cancer support group through Gilda's Club and will once again participate in the 2026 Chicago ZERO Prostate Cancer Run/Walk. Whether you’ve been diagnosed with prostate cancer, are supporting a partner or loved one, are a survivor, or simply want to become more informed, this episode offers an important reminder: knowledge is empowering, community is powerful, and no one should have to navigate prostate cancer alone. *The expert's opinions in this communication are personal and not representative of any organization. They are for informational purposes only, not official guidance. Viewers are advised to use their judgment, seek additional advice, and take responsibility for any actions based on these opinions.

For many people, pain during deep penetration is an invisible and often misunderstood challenge. Known as collision dyspareunia, this type of pain can affect intimacy, relationships, and overall quality of life—but it doesn't have to define your sexual experiences. In this episode of Dr. Jeff Talks About Sex & Intimacy, guest host Dr. Susan Kellogg-Spadt, internationally recognized sexual medicine expert, is joined by Emily Sauer, Founder and CEO of OhNut and Kiwi, to explore the causes, impact, and innovative solutions for collision dyspareunia. Together, they discuss what collision dyspareunia is, the many medical conditions that can contribute to it—including endometriosis, pelvic floor dysfunction, adenomyosis, ovarian cysts, and post-treatment changes after cancer—as well as why pain during sex should never simply be accepted as "normal." Emily shares the inspiration behind creating OhNut, an intimacy device designed to help couples customize penetration depth without sacrificing pleasure or connection, and discusses how thoughtful innovation can empower people to stay intimate while managing pain. The conversation also highlights the importance of open communication, reducing shame, and working with healthcare professionals who take sexual pain seriously. Whether you're experiencing painful intercourse yourself, supporting a partner, or are a healthcare provider looking to better understand this common but often overlooked condition, this episode offers practical insights, compassionate guidance, and hope that pleasurable, satisfying intimacy is possible. *The expert's opinions in this communication are personal and not representative of any organization. They are for informational purposes only, not official guidance. Viewers are advised to use their judgment, seek additional advice, and take responsibility for any actions based on these opinions.

In a world filled with distractions, social media, and surface-level interactions, authentic connection has become one of the greatest gifts we can offer—and one of the deepest human needs we all share. But what does it truly mean to be authentic in our relationships, and why does genuine connection matter so much for our emotional, physical, and sexual well-being? In this solo episode, Dr. Jeff explores the science and art of authentic connection. You'll discover how vulnerability, emotional safety, curiosity, empathy, and honest communication create the foundation for intimacy that goes far beyond physical attraction. Whether you're in a long-term partnership, dating, rebuilding after hardship, or simply seeking more meaningful relationships, this conversation offers practical tools to help you move from simply existing together to truly knowing and being known. You'll learn: Why authentic connection is essential for healthy relationships.The barriers that keep us from being our true selves.How vulnerability strengthens trust and emotional intimacy.Simple daily practices that deepen connection with your partner.Why feeling seen, heard, and accepted is one of the greatest predictors of relationship satisfaction.Join Dr. Jeff for an encouraging conversation about what it means to show up as your authentic self, cultivate meaningful relationships, and discover that true intimacy begins not with perfection—but with genuine connection. *The expert's opinions in this communication are personal and not representative of any organization. They are for informational purposes only, not official guidance. Viewers are advised to use their judgment, seek additional advice, and take responsibility for any actions based on these opinions.

In this episode of Dr. Jeff Talks About Sex & Intimacy, Dr. Jeff welcomes Nick Dugan, MS, RD, CNSC, Clinical Solutions Consultant with Pisces Healthcare Solutions and Eric Kolb, MS, CTO and co-founder of Elidah, to explore innovative, non-invasive technologies that are changing the landscape of sexual wellness. The conversation highlights Elitone®, an FDA-cleared, wearable pelvic floor treatment designed to help women & men manage urinary incontinence while supporting pelvic floor health and quality of life. *The expert's opinions in this communication are personal and not representative of any organization. They are for informational purposes only, not official guidance. Viewers are advised to use their judgment, seek additional advice, and take responsibility for any actions based on these opinions.

Bringing Play Back to Sex: Practical Strategies for Connection & Desire *The expert's opinions in this communication are personal and not representative of any organization. They are for informational purposes only, not official guidance. Viewers are advised to use their judgment, seek additional advice, and take responsibility for any actions based on these opinions.

Anxiety doesn't stay neatly contained in our minds—it often follows us into our closest relationships, affecting emotional closeness, sexual desire, arousal, communication, and confidence. Whether anxiety is related to work, family responsibilities, health concerns, past experiences, body image, or sexual performance, it can create a cycle that leaves individuals feeling insecure and partners feeling disconnected and misunderstood. In this episode, Dr. Jeff welcomes Melissa Novak, LCSW, CST, a certified sex therapist and anxiety expert, for an insightful presentation and discussion about the complex relationship between anxiety, intimacy, and sexual well-being. Melissa will explore how anxiety impacts the way we feel about ourselves and how we show up in our relationships, while offering practical, evidence-informed strategies for breaking the cycle. Join us for a thoughtful episode that reminds us that meaningful intimacy isn't about eliminating anxiety—it's about learning how to stay connected to ourselves and each other, even when life feels overwhelming. *The expert's opinions in this communication are personal and not representative of any organization. They are for informational purposes only, not official guidance. Viewers are advised to use their judgment, seek additional advice, and take responsibility for any actions based on these opinions.

Men's urologic health is about much more than urinary symptoms—it plays a vital role in overall health, quality of life, sexual function, and healthy aging. In this informative episode of Dr. Jeff Talks About Sex & Intimacy, Dr. Jeffrey Albaugh welcomes Loyola Medical Center Urologist Dr. Ahmer Farooq, DO, to present the most common urologic concerns affecting men and what every man should know to stay healthy. He will explore conditions such as enlarged prostate (BPH), urinary symptoms, prostate cancer, erectile dysfunction, urinary tract health, and lifestyle habits that can help prevent or manage these conditions. Whether you're a young adult, middle-aged, or older, this episode offers practical, evidence-based guidance to help you take charge of your urologic health. Join us for an engaging conversation that empowers men to move beyond embarrassment, ask important questions, and prioritize their health with confidence. *The expert's opinions in this communication are personal and not representative of any organization. They are for informational purposes only, not official guidance. Viewers are advised to use their judgment, seek additional advice, and take responsibility for any actions based on these opinions.

Sexual health isn’t just about what we feel—it’s also about what we do, and why we do it. In this episode, Sexual Behavior Analysis: A New Frontier in Sexology, Dr. Jeff is joined by Nicholas Maio-Aether, MAMFT, MSPSY, LBA, CSC, IBA, BCBA, to explore an emerging and innovative approach to understanding sexual behavior through the lens of behavioral science. Sexual Behavior Analysis applies principles of behavior—like reinforcement, conditioning, and learned patterns—to help individuals and couples better understand their sexual experiences. This practical, evidence-informed approach offers new tools for addressing concerns such as low desire, performance anxiety, compulsive behaviors, and difficulties with intimacy. Tune in to discover how this emerging subfield of sexology is opening new pathways for growth, healing, and more fulfilling intimacy. *The expert's opinions in this communication are personal and not representative of any organization. They are for informational purposes only, not official guidance. Viewers are advised to use their judgment, seek additional advice, and take responsibility for any actions based on these opinions.

Can a single intimate moment change the way you interact with your partner for days? In this episode, Dr. Jeff is joined by world-renowned female sexual medicine expert Susan Kellogg-Spadt, PhD, CRNP, IF, CSC and a panel of specialists to explore the "afterglow" effect. We dive into how sexual activity predicts an increase in positive emotions and affection the following day. Join us for an honest discussion on using intimacy as a tool to build trust, reduce conflict, and foster a lasting culture of goodwill in your relationship *The expert's opinions in this communication are personal and not representative of any organization. They are for informational purposes only, not official guidance. Viewers are advised to use their judgment, seek additional advice, and take responsibility for any actions based on these opinions.

In this episode of Dr. Jeff Talks About Sex & Intimacy, Dr. Jeffrey Albaugh will do a solo episode (the scheduled guest is unable to participate) to discuss what it really takes to keep desire alive in a long-term relationship. Desire naturally changes over time, especially as couples navigate stress, parenting, health changes, aging, busy schedules, and emotional disconnection. But losing spontaneity does not mean losing intimacy. Dr. Jeff will explore how emotional safety, curiosity, communication, playfulness, novelty, and intentional connection can help couples rediscover erotic energy and deepen their bond. Whether you are in a new relationship, have been together for decades, or are rebuilding intimacy after challenges, this episode offers compassionate and realistic tools for nurturing desire in everyday life. *The expert's opinions in this communication are personal and not representative of any organization. They are for informational purposes only, not official guidance. Viewers are advised to use their judgment, seek additional advice, and take responsibility for any actions based on these opinions.

What does it really mean to have a healthy sexual life? In this thoughtful and affirming episode, Jennifer Monninger, LCSW, CST joins Dr. Jeff to explore The Six Principles of Sexual Health, a framework developed by Doug Braun-Harvey and Michael Vigorito that has become foundational in modern sex therapy. Jennifer will discuss how these principles—consent, nonexploitation, protection from HIV/STIs and unintended pregnancy, honesty, shared values, and pleasure—help people move away from shame and fear toward greater authenticity, intimacy, and sexual wellbeing. The conversation also explores the LGBTQ+ roots of this work, including how the AIDS epidemic shaped conversations around sexuality, stigma, and the right to sexual expression without judgment. This episode offers a compassionate, inclusive, and sex-positive conversation for anyone interested in building a healthier relationship with sexuality—grounded not in fear, but in connection, agency, and pleasure.*The expert's opinions in this communication are personal and not representative of any organization. They are for informational purposes only, not official guidance. Viewers are advised to use their judgment, seek additional advice, and take responsibility for any actions based on these opinions.