Tera sits down with Vanessa Marin, licensed sex therapist and CEO of Vanessa Marin Sex Therapy, to explore how our early messages around sex shape our adult relationships—and how we can reclaim joy, freedom, and connection in the bedroom. Vanessa shares her personal journey of unlearning shame, learning how to speak up for her needs, and rewriting her sexual story. From navigating body confidence to overcoming a sex-negative upbringing, this conversation is a powerful reminder that healing is possible—and your pleasure matters. Whether you're struggling with desire, communication, or emotional intimacy, Vanessa’s insights will leave you encouraged, empowered, and equipped. Links and Resources: Download the Core Emotion Wheel: https://connectioncodes.co/get-the-cew Find out how to become a Certified Coach: https://connectioncodes.co/certified-coaching Find a coach: https://connectioncodes.co/all-coaches Vanessa Marin on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vanessaandxander/?hl=en Website: https://vmtherapy.com/ Chapters: 00:00:00 – A Warm Welcome + A Quick Note on Therapy 00:00:50 – Meet Vanessa Marin: Sex Therapist, Real Talker, Freedom Fighter 00:01:39 – Growing Up Silent: How Shame Shaped Our Sexual Narratives 00:04:32 – From Shame to Liberation: Vanessa’s Personal Turning Point 00:06:11 – The Call to Sex Therapy: Where Curiosity Meets Calling 00:11:01 – Kids, Chaos & Connection: Keeping Intimacy Alive in Parenthood 00:17:21 – Desire Decoded: What Your Libido Might Be Telling You 00:23:02 – Let’s Talk Initiation: Who Starts, Why It Matters 00:29:42 – Spicing It Up: Creating a More Playful Sexual Menu 00:30:09 – What Actually Works for You? Redefining Sexual Connection 00:31:13 – Vanessa’s Go-To Tools & Practices for Better Sex 00:32:58 – Sex Positions: Myths, Pressure & What to Let Go Of 00:33:26 – Fresh Energy: How to Stay Curious in Long-Term Love 00:36:16 – Permission to Laugh: Why Playfulness Belongs in the Bedroom 00:42:38 – Too Busy for Sex? Why Prioritizing It Changes Everything 00:46:55 – It’s More Than Just the Act: The Deeper Value of Sex 00:47:52 – Orgasm Isn’t the Goal: Navigating Challenges Without Shame 00:50:38 – Where Emotional Safety Meets Sexual Connection
