Taboo to Truth: Life & Sex After 50

Hey there, and welcome to Season 4 of the Taboo to Truth podcast! I’m your host, Karen Bigman, and I’m thrilled to have you with me for another season of unapologetic conversations about sexuality in midlife. Whether you're navigating a dwindling libido, struggling with sexual health changes, or just trying to understand what's happening to your body during menopause, I’m here to talk about it all...

As we countdown to the new year, it’s time to leave behind the dull sex life of 2024 and step into something hotter and more exciting. Want to know how to turn up the heat in the bedroom or even at your next sex party? In this episode,I’m sharing five tips for better sex in 2025. What’s the secret? Well, let’s just say communication is key (but I’m not talking about just words), making time for se...

The holidays are here, and with 2025 knocking on the door, how are you preparing to step into the new year? Sure, a cozy holiday read is great, but what if you could unwrap something truly transformative this season? In this episode, I’m sharing my top five midlife must-reads—books that dive into health, relationships, self-discovery, and navigating the complexities of midlife. These picks are des...

In this episode, I’m getting real about something that can completely transform your relationship: vulnerability. We often think of vulnerability as something women do, but here’s the truth—men can be just as willing to open up, and when they do, it’s absolutely amazing.  Here’s the thing: men and women aren’t as different as we think. The fears women have about aging, like changes to our bod...

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Irwin and Sue Goldstein to tackle the taboo around menopause and women’s sexual health. Why is it that we still don’t talk about what’s really happening in our bodies during menopause? It’s not just about hot flashes—there’s so much more going on beneath the surface that impacts everything from our physical health to our sexuality. Sue cuts through the noise ab...

On today's show, I caught up with Kamna Bhojwani at the Sexual Health Alliance conference, where her raw honesty about sexual shame instantly grabbed my attention. With three psychology degrees and a master's from Columbia specifically focused on sexual shame, Kamna cuts through the bullshit to address what's really holding us back in midlife. We get real about everything - from awkward doctor vis...

Ever wondered why the clitoris is often misunderstood, despite being the ultimate pleasure powerhouse? Did you know it has over 10,000 nerve endings—more than any other part of the body? In this episode, I dive into the fascinating world of the clitoris, an organ uniquely designed for pleasure. I break down its anatomy, both external and internal, and explain why it’s so vital for sexual satisfact...

In today's episode, I'm joined by Shauna Stewart, founder of Linger Boutique and host of the Life Turned On podcast. We tackle something that affects so many women: the challenge of receiving, whether it's help, pleasure, or simply a compliment. Shauna brings her expertise as both a boutique owner and sex educator to share insights about breaking down barriers to intimacy and pleasure. What I love...

In today's episode, I dive deep into a topic that affects countless marriages - the complex relationship between marriage and sexual intimacy. Drawing from my own 26-year marriage experience and professional insights, I explore why many couples struggle with maintaining a healthy sex life after marriage. I discuss how marriage evolved from a financial contract to today's emotional partnership, and...

In this special bonus episode, I'm excited to announce our move to Tuesday releases while treating listeners to essential tips for creating meaningful solo sex experiences. As your host and Certified Sex Educator& Menopause Coach, I dive into the art of self-pleasure, sharing practical advice for creating the perfect environment and mindset. Whether you're single or partnered, these intimate m...

In today's episode, I sat down with Dr. Emily Jamea, sex and relationship therapist and host of the Love and Libido podcast. We dove deep into her groundbreaking research on the connection between flow states and sexual satisfaction, which forms the foundation of her new book "Anatomy of Five Secrets to Create Connection and Cultivate Passion." Dr. Jamea shared her innovative approach to helping c...

In this episode of Taboo to Truth , I dive into some of the most important topics surrounding midlife: menopause, Sexual Health, and personal growth . As I share my experiences of becoming a certified Sexual Health Educator and Menopause Coach, I talk about the physical and emotional changes that come with menopause and how they impact our overall well-being. Timestamps: (00:00) – Menopause: How H...

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Rachel Zar, a licensed marriage and family therapist and certified sex therapist, to talk about why specialized training in sexual therapy is so important. Too many therapists aren’t equipped to handle conversations around sexual health, and that can leave people feeling misunderstood and ashamed. Dr. Zar and I dive into the challenges that come up when address...

In this episode, I tackle the often stigmatized topic of herpes and STIs in midlife. Dating can be complicated enough without the added stress of navigating STIs, particularly herpes. I share my personal experiences and insights, aiming to break the silence and dispel common myths surrounding this condition. Herpes is not life-threatening, and many people live with it without significant issues. B...

In this episode, I sit down with Lilith Foxx, a BIPOC, queer, neurodivergent, kinky, and polyamorous marketing professional turned board-certified sexologist. Lilith, an AASECT-certified sexuality educator, professional speaker, coach, and diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging consultant, shares her journey from tech marketing to becoming a prominent figure in the world of BDSM and sexual ed...

In this episode, I revisit the topic of painful sex, specifically for women. I delve into the medical term for painful sex, dyspareunia, and explores various causes and solutions. I provide valuable insights into how women can redefine sex to include many other pleasurable activities that do not involve pain. I also discusses the importance of addressing painful sex and offers practical advice on...

In this episode, we sit down with Eric FitzMedrud, Ph. D. a therapist specializing in relationship and sexual issues, to discuss how men can improve their sex lives through emotional regulation, removing sexual entitlement, and enhancing consent and negotiation skills. Eric, an award-winning author, shares his personal journey and professional insights on creating healthier, more enjoyable sexual...

In this episode, I dive into the role of testosterone as part of hormone replacement therapy. Inspired by a recent conversation with a male endocrinologist, I tackle the frustrating double standards surrounding testosterone treatment for women. Why is it casually prescribed for men, but women need a specific diagnosis? Check out this episode where we discuss: The importance of testosterone for wom...

Breaking Barriers In this episode of the 'Taboo to Truth' podcast, host Karen Bigman, a Sexual Health Alliance Certified Sex Educator, menopause coach and sex educator, delves into the world of sex tech and sex work advocacy with Ola Miedzynska. Ola, a trailblazer in the sex technology industry, discusses her extensive experience with over 60 global sex tech and adult tech brands, including the fo...

Revolutionizing Sexual Health: Dr. Sum Rakshit of Mystery Vibe Explains Innovative Solutions In this episode, Dr. Sum Rakshit, founder of Mystery Vibe, delves into the world of sexual health and wellness. Dr. Rakshit discusses how Mystery Vibe's devices, originally based on biomedical engineering principles, are designed to address various sexual dysfunction issues such as vaginal dryness, lack of...

In this podcast episode, I dive into my own experiences with dating apps and the journey to change my patterns—moving from an anxious attachment style to a healthier, self-assured approach.  Women often worry about whether he’ll call or text again, and sometimes settle for less than they deserve. It's easy to latch onto someone just because they're available, but true connection goes deeper....

In this episode, I explain the differences between bioidentical, synthetic, and natural hormones and various hormone delivery methods. I highlight the benefits of hormone therapy for managing menopausal symptoms and long-term health. The episode aims to provide women with the knowledge needed to navigate hormone therapy and improve their quality of life during menopause. (01:49) Understanding...

Have you ever wondered what sex really means? This spring, I attended the Association of Sex Educators, Coaches, Counselors, and Therapists conference in St. Louis. I met remarkable professionals dedicated to fostering a more sex-positive world. Curious, I asked 24 of these experts—from sex therapists to professional cuddlers—what their definition of sex is. Interestingly, "sex" means something di...

Jump into a riveting conversation that breaks down misconceptions and tackles the universal challenges of dating and sex in midlife. In this episode, I sit down with Alyssa Dineen, a renowned dating coach, stylist, and author, as she shares her journey of rediscovery post-divorce. From navigating the intimidating world of online dating to revealing personal stories of "losing her second virginity,...

This episode is a replay of one of our most popular episodes since launching last September. In this episode, I delve into non-monogamy, a topic stirring a lot of curiosity, especially among those in long-term relationships. I discuss what non-monogamy is, various forms it can take, like swinging and polyamory, and how it might either revitalize or challenge your relationship. This isn't an endors...