Sleeping Around
Sleeping Around is a podcast that explores modern sex therapy, couple's therapy, and sex and relationship research. Hosted by Alayna Joy, a Master of Counselling Psychology student and content creator, each episode features conversations with experts and professionals in the field. The show offers insights into intimacy, attachment, and relationships, providing a unique and inclusive perspective.
Episodes
The Secret Meaning Behind Your Sexual Fantasies with Dr. Justin Lehmiller
What do your fantasies really say about you? Go to https://regain.us/alaynajoy to get 10% off your first month of couples therapy!
In this season finale, Dr. Justin Lehmiller— social psychologist, Kinsey Institute researcher, and author of Tell Me What You Want joins Alayna to unpack the science of sexual fantasies: why we have them, what they mean (or don’t), and how they can actually
Can Couples Heal After Cheating? Where Therapy Gets It Wrong with Rebecca Stone
After infidelity, is healing even possible? In this episode, Alayna Joy sits down with somatic and couples therapist Rebecca Stone to explore betrayal trauma, what causes people to cheat, and how couples can move forward after an affair.
This week’s full extended cut (normally for Patreon members-only) is free for everyone. To get ALL the other extended cuts, join here: patreon.com/alayna
Are We All Traumatized? A Conversation with Bhupie Dulay & Abby Chow
In this inspiring conversation, Alayna sits down with Abby and Bhupie—therapists and co-creators of Prospect Counselling + Training—to unpack the big, messy questions around trauma and healing. Are we all traumatized? What does healing actually look like, beyond the therapy room? And how do we unlearn harmful beliefs about what healing “should” be?
Whether you're in therapy, offering ther
What Is Kink? Understanding BDSM with Stefani Goerlich
Sex therapist and author Stefani Goerlich joins us to break down the basics: What is kink? What is BDSM? How do you know if you’re “vanilla”—and is that a bad thing? We talk red flags, green flags, and what to keep in mind if you're just starting to explore. Whether you're curious, cautious, or ready to dive in, this episode is your judgment-free guide to kink!
FOR THE EXTENDED EPISODE jo
Coming Out Late with Robin Douglass
Check out Dossier Perfumes: https://dossier.co/ #dossier #dossierperfumes @dossierperfumes
“It’s better late than never—because it’s never too late.” – Robin Douglass
In this heartfelt conversation, Alayna is joined by Robin Douglass, an educator and coach who helps people come out later in life. Together, they explore what it means to question your identity as an adult, how to move forwa
Couple’s Therapist Reveals Secret to Healthy Conflict
Why do even the best relationships get stuck in cycles of conflict? FOR THE EXTENDED EPISODE join the Patreon community here ✨: https://www.patreon.com/AlaynaJoy
In this episode, Alayna is joined by compassion-focused therapist and educator Michelle Becker to explore what really happens when we're triggered in relationships—and how we can bring more mindfulness, kindness, and connection
Dating with Insecure Attachment: From Anxious to Avoidant with Heidi Priebe
Ever wonder why you get super anxious—or totally shut down—in relationships? FOR THE EXTENDED EPISODE join the Patreon community here ✨: https://www.patreon.com/AlaynaJoy
In this episode, Alayna is joined by writer, speaker, and attachment theory expert Heidi Priebe for a deep dive into the world of attachment styles: what they are, where they come from, and how they quietly (or not so qu
Therapy in the Age of TikTok with Gabriel Ray-Contreras
FOR THE EXTENDED EPISODE join the Patreon community here ✨: https://www.patreon.com/AlaynaJoy
In this episode, we’re unpacking how therapy has changed in the age of TikTok, and what all the online advice is really doing to our understanding of mental health. Alayna is joined by Gabriel Ray-Contreras, who is a former medical doctor turned counsellor, educator, and podcaster. Together they
The Masc Shortage Is a Myth—and Other Queer Sexuality Lies with Eva Bloom
This week on Sleeping Around Alayna is joined by Eva Bloom, an award-winning non-binary sex educator and queer joy enthusiast. Whether you're just coming into your queerness or exploring intimacy for the first time, this episode is for everyone who’s ever wondered: Where do I even begin?
Some Questions Covered:
What does it mean to be a “late bloomer”?
What often gets missed about pleasur
Why Sex Hurts (and What to Do About It) with Sara Reardon
In this episode of Sleeping Around, Alayna is joined by pelvic floor therapist Sara Reardon to talk all things pelvic health—and it’s way more than just kegels. They unpack common (but often unspoken) issues like pain during sex, painful periods, and how to know if your pelvic floor is actually functioning normally. Whether you're experiencing any of these concerns, pregnant, postpartum,
Discover This Sexual Superpower with Lori Brotto
What is the key to unlocking your best sexual experiences? In this episode of Sleeping Around, Alayna and guest Dr. Lori Brotto explore the role of mindfulness in intimacy, its connection to pleasure and body awareness, and its uses for problematic low sexual desire. Plus, do both partners need to practice mindfulness for it to work? Tune in to learn the secrets of applying these tools to
The Ultimate Guide to Kink with Tina Horn
Use the code SLEEPINGAROUND to try CHEEX for free for 7 days, click here 👉 https://bit.ly/CHEEXFreeTrial-SleepingAroundThe code applies when you select the yearly plan, but you can cancel or switch to the monthly plan anytime during the trial period! After that, your CHEEX subscription starts from just $9.90 USD per month ✨This week, we’re diving deep into all things kink with guest Tina
The Most Common ADHD Relationship Struggles (and How to Fix Them) with Jak Levine- Pritzker
Download Love & Pies here - https://pixly.go2cloud.org/SH4iPThanks to Love & Pies for sponsoring!In this week's episode of Sleeping Around, Alayna sits down with Jak Levine-Pritzker to discuss the unique challenges and dynamics of dating with ADHD. They dive into the impact of ADHD on communication, household responsibilities, and new vs longterm connection, while offering practic
The Real Healthcare Crisis is Fatphobia | Alexandra Shewan On Fat Liberation
In this week's episode of Sleeping Around, Alayna is joined by counsellor, consultant, and fat liberationist Alexandra Shewan for a conversation about fat liberation. They dive into the history of fatphobia, the medical industrial complex, and how anti-fatness intersects with racism, colonialism, and capitalism. Alexandra also shares insights on dating and how to unlearn internalized anti
Katy O’Brian On Discovering Sexuality and Identity
Any other Love Lies Bleeding fans out there?! This episode is for you!! Check out Dossier Perfumes: https://dossier.co/ (wait did I seriously just have a conversation with Katy O’Brian?! seriously?!)In today's episode of Sleeping Around, Alayna sits down with actor and martial artist Katy O’Brian to talk about identity, self-discovery, and queer representation in media.Katy shares her com
Boundaries Are Not What You Think with Juliane Taylor Shore
What exactly is a boundary, and why do so many people struggle to set and maintain them? In this episode, we’re breaking down what boundaries truly are, how to set them effectively, and the secret to ensuring they’re “respected"!Connect with Juliane Taylor Shore:Why Does My Partner? PodcastSetting Boundaries That Stick BookInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/julianetaylorshore?utm_source=
The Sex Education We Deserved (But Never Got) with Dr. Nadine Thornhill
For those of us who never got the sex education we needed - those left with gaps, shame, or straight-up misinformation - this episode is for us. Dr. Nadine Thornhill, an award-winning sexuality educator, joins us to break down what comprehensive, science-backed sex education could and does look like, and why it matters. We explore ideas around teaching youth about consent, pleasure, and r
A Beginner’s Guide to Non-Monogamy with Emma and Fin
This week Alayna sits down with Emma and Fin, a nonmonogamous couple who have been together since college and now co-host the podcast Normalizing Non-Monogamy. Together, they dive into the fundamentals of non-monogamy, offer practical advice for anyone curious about opening their relationship, and share stories of their own experiences.They answer questions like:
What is non-monogamy?
How
Your Most Pressing Questions Answered
Go to https://surfshark.com/alayna for 4 extra months of Surfshark!Welcome to this special episode where I answer your questions and share some exciting updates!Some Questions I Answer:
Wedding plans?!
Do I ever get nervous interviewing people?
How’s school going?
What’s the biggest goal I achieved this year?
✨ Follow on Instagram @sleepingaroundpod : https://www.instagram.com/sleepingaro
Ageless Sexuality with Joan Price
In today’s conversation with senior sex educator and author Joan Price, we debunk the myths and explore the realities of sexuality in later life.From navigating changes in our bodies to redefining what intimacy looks like, Joan shares invaluable insights, including:
What to expect from sex as we age
Overcoming shame and embracing desire
Preparing for senior sexuality (yes, start now!)
Gri
Emily Nagoski on What Happy Couples Know That Others Don’t
This week, Emily Nagoski (THE Emily Nagoski ah) and I explore what makes pleasure thrive in relationships by looking at how we can build stronger, more fulfilling connections.We also tackle questions like: What are the ingredients to a satisfying long-term sexual relationship? What if I don’t know what I like? How to experience pleasure? Why do couples with great sex lives talk about it s
How to Have Lesbian Sex (no really) with Stevie Boebi
In this episode of Sleeping Around, Alayna welcomes longtime friend and queer sex educator Stevie Boebi to the therapy couch. Stevie shares her journey into queer sex education and the unique challenges of addressing disability, queerness, and relationships in her content. Together, they explore topics like lesbian sex techniques, navigating sensory issues during intimacy, and the importa
How to Be Single and Happy ft. Dr. Yuthika Girme
In this episode, Alayna chats with Dr. Yuthika Girme about redefining singlehood. They tackle societal pressures, the myth that relationships equal happiness, and how to be single and happy. From working on your attachment style to the stigma around relationship status, this episode offers fresh insights into finding fulfillment on your own terms.Yuthika U. Girme is an Associate Professor
How To Tell Your Partner They’re Bad in Bed (+ 5 Other Important Conversations)
What are the five key conversations every couple should have to improve their relationship? In this episode of Sleeping Around, we dive into this question with New York Times bestselling authors Vanessa and Xander Marin. Together, they explore the challenges of how to navigate communication hurdles in relationships, and some surprising truths about intimacy. Meet Vanessa and Xander Marin.
Queer and Neurodivergent Relationships with Dr. Devon Price
Get all extended episodes and your holiday card here!: https://www.patreon.com/c/AlaynaJoyGo to https://surfshark.com/alayna for 4 extra months of Surfshark at an unbeatable price!Today Alayna welcomes Dr. Devon Price, a social psychologist and acclaimed author, to explore the intersections of neurodivergence, queerness, and authentic self-expression. Together they delve into masking, the
Why Men Are Getting It All Wrong with Eric FitzMedrud
In this episode of Sleeping Around, Alayna sits down with Dr. Eric FitzMedrud, a therapist specializing in helping men redefine masculinity, consent, and intimacy. They dive into complex topics like male vulnerability, emotional regulation, and unpacking harmful aspects of the "manosphere." Dr. FitzMedrud shares insights into consent, the importance of emotional connection, and advice on
Can Asexual People Really Enjoy Sex? Angela Chen Breaks It Down
We dive into the world of asexuality in this week’s episode of Sleeping Around, with journalist and author Angela Chen. Angela's book, Ace: What Asexuality Reveals About Desire, Society, and the Meaning of Sex, sheds light on this often-misunderstood identity. Angela and Alayna explore questions like:
How can someone recognize a lack of sexual attraction if they've never felt it?
Can asex
What They Don’t Tell You About Ethical Porn with Erika Lust
Dive into a thought-provoking conversation as I welcome acclaimed erotic filmmaker Erica Lust to Sleeping Around. In this episode, we explore the world of ethical feminist porn- breaking down stereotypes, sharing behind-the-scenes stories, and redefining narratives on sexuality and representation. Lust sheds light on how her films focus on real pleasure, diversity, and empowerment in ways
The Self-Compassion Hacks That Will Transform Your Relationship ft. Dr. Kristin Neff
In this episode of Sleeping Around, I sit down with Dr. Kristin Neff, a pioneer in the field of self-compassion research. Dr. Neff shares insights from her groundbreaking work on mindful self-compassion, discussing how it transforms our relationship with ourselves and others. Listen in for some practical tips for developing your own self-compassion practice and discover how this essential
How to Navigate Trauma in Relationships with Jimanekia Eborn
Trigger Warning: in this episode we discuss sexual trauma. The episode does not contain graphic detail but does include the story of Jimanekia's assault and discussion of sexual trauma in various forms. Take care of yourself!In this episode, I chat with Jimanekia about healing from trauma and the role of community in recovery. We discuss steps for survivors re-entering the dating world, e
Allison Raskin Shares Conversation Must-Haves Before Saying “I Do"
What are the most important questions couples should ask before getting married? In today’s episode, Allison Raskin and I explore everything to do with modern marriage, diving into the pressures of gender roles, whether or not we should normalize divorce, accepting your partner vs pushing for change, and more. We also tackle essential questions like:
How does OCD affect relationships?
Wha
What If Everything You Knew About Gender and Sexuality Was Wrong? ft. Lucie Fielding
In this episode we delve into the complexities of gender and pleasure for all bodies. We explore gender fluidity and the balance between finding pleasure and dysphoria, while offering practical tips for gender expansion in solo and partnered sexual experiences.We also tackle questions like:- What is gender mercuriality?- Should we be aiming for gender euphoria?- How do we avoid the pitfal
Common Sex & Couples Therapy Concerns with Kate Moyle
Welcome to the first ever episode of Sleeping Around!What are some of the most common concerns that couples bring to therapy? In today’s episode Kate Moyle and I dive into why 40% of people report dissatisfaction with their sex life, how sexual communication can transform your relationship, and what happens when desire fades over time. We also tackle essential questions like: How much sex
Welcome to Sleeping Around with Alayna Joy
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Recommended
15 MINS OF FAME
15 Minute Mysteries: The Deep Dive
15 minutes de grâce et de vérité
15 Minutes of Infamy
15 Minutes with Jesus: Christian Meditation, Guided Prayer, Bible Study, Emotional Healing, Devotional, Hear God’s Voice
180Podcast.
1856 Podcast-YMCA of South Hampton Roads
1984
1984, by George Orwell
19 Keys Presents High Level Conversations
19 Observations on mining and refining of critical minerals
1A
