Sex Gets Real 128: Erotica & desire with Rachel Kramer Bussel

Erotica has played a significant role in my own sexual exploration and development – from teaching me about my own desires and fantasies to understanding the depth of other people’s sexual landscapes. It’s a yummy and delicious space to play in. That’s why I’m so excited to be joined by Rachel Kramer Bussel this week, who has edited over 60 …

Sex Gets Real 127: Master, slave, Dominance, submission

Sinclair Sexsmith (you might know them as Sugarbutch) is here this week and we are talking ALL about kink, BDSM, and power dynamics. We take a look at Sinclair’s journey from submissive to Top to Dominant to Daddy and Master. What is it like to live in a 24/7 Master slave dynamic? How can people learn more? We also discuss …

Sex Gets Real 126: Open relationships, touch free orgasms, & Daddy Doms

In the DC area? I’m teaching kink, anal sex, thriving relationships, blowjobs, and more in October and November. Check out the details at Secret Pleasures Boutique by popping over to their workshop page.  How does traditional consent education fail us? What do you do if you’re in a new open relationship and it just isn’t working for you? Can someone really …

Sometimes it takes a broken heart to find the tenderness you so desperately need.

This is a vulnerable post for me. To be honest, the last thing I wanted to do today was write because it’s a high-feels day. But, then I thought, maybe that’s the perfect time to write. Maybe by letting my pain be a real, valid thing, someone else will feel seen. As easy as it is to tell myself I’m less worthy, …

Sex Gets Real 125: Rejection, rape fantasies, & painting consent violators as evil

In the DC area? Sign up for my workshops at Secret Pleasures Boutique by popping over to their workshop page. The October “From Curious to Kinky” is now enrolling. Sometimes I get intimidated or nervous about speaking with a guest. Other times I feel excited to dig in with a colleague or friend. But this week? The only word I …

Dawn Answers: Finding your voice after trauma

Cindy asks: Hi Dawn, I’ve been catching up on old episodes and caught sight of the episode of Dylan leaving. (Haven’t heard it yet) I miss her already! I hope you continue on as strong as before. I wanted to try and get some advice about talking with my partner. He’s been absolutely sweet and understanding about my issues with …

Sex Gets Real 122: Porn star & sex work advocate Conner Habib

Conner Habib generously agreed to jump on the phone with me at the last minute for this week’s episode, and our conversation is incredibly political and philosophical in ways you don’t often hear on the show. This is my second time interviewing Conner and both times we’ve chatted, I’ve felt challenged and inspired to think bigger. Strap on your thinking …

Are criticism or sarcasm showing up in love? The balm is kindness.

How kind are you being to yourself? How kind are you being with the people that you love? The answer says an awful lot about your life, your needs, and what isn’t working. Why? Because as soon as kindness takes a hike, it’s time for massive change. Over and over again, this has proven to be true in my own life (and …