Looking for answers to the questions you don't want to Google? Not sure where to get help when your sexual life is on the rocks and everything the secular culture has to offer is only making things worse? Welcome to Charting Toward Intimacy where you learn to actually enjoy and desire good, holy sex with your spouse. Hosted by Ellen Holloway, Catholic Sex and Intimacy Coach.
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Join Mike Tenney as he and his guests highlight the true, good and beautiful elements found in classic and modern pop culture. He ties the aspects of living our faith to the music and movies that impact the world around us.
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This is the radical feminist history party you've been waiting for. Recorded at Caveat in NYC, each episode of Nevertheless She Existed brings the story of an erased woman from history from our LES speakeasy right to your earbuds. You'll hear tales of gay nuns burned as witches, queens of NYC thieves, mothers, warriors, and poets. The fabulous, funny, and fierce comedians Molly Gaebe and Kylie Holloway serve as our hosts and voices as we travel down the rabbit hole of women's history. You'll ...
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In this week's episode Kathleen and Ellen talk about some common elements of lingerie. They discuss both personal preferences as well as how certain elements can fit well for certain body types or seasons of life (like postpartum or pregnant bodies!) We talk through some pieces specifically on the Mentionables website. While we reference specific p…
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84. What Was I Made For? - Billie & Barbie w/ Clare McCallan
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WE’RE BACK! And talking about the biggest song of the last year “What Was I Made For” By Billie Eilish from the Barbie movie, and to take us through it we have the poet Clare McCallan. She shares her wisdom (including some spicy hot takes), a bit about her life, and also a really good poem. She also talks about her new book “Courage To Create.” And…
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Ellen addresses the struggle many women face in transitioning from their busy day to intimate moments with their spouse. Highlighting the inherent multitasking nature of women's brains, Ellen introduces the '10-minute unwind' as a method to help focus and prepare for intimacy. Check out the O Course for Catholic Women here! ________________________…
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NFP is NOT "Catholic Contraception" | Ep. 169
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In this episode, Ellen and Kathleen delve into the distinction between Natural Family Planning (NFP) and contraception, addressing common questions and concerns from a Catholic perspective. They explore the theological significance of sex, the church's stance on NFP versus contraception, and how these practices reflect one's relationship with God's…
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What if I'm Not Comfortable With Something My Husband Suggests? | Ep. 168
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In this episode Ellen discusses how couples can handle differing levels of comfort with sexual acts. She emphasizes the importance of communication, respecting each other's boundaries, and defaulting to the less comfortable spouse to maintain a loving and trusting relationship. She provides guidance on how to navigate situations where one partner i…
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Chastity is More Than Just Abstinence - SO MUCH MORE | Ep. 167
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In this episode Ellen and Kathleen explore the topic of chastity within marriage, emphasizing that chastity goes beyond merely abstaining from sex. They discuss the deep and abundant grace available through the sacrament of marriage and how living out chastity can enhance marital intimacy and union. The conversation covers the Catechism's teachings…
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Messy Liturgies and Sin-Filled Marriages | Ep. 166
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In this episode Ellen shares a personal revelation about finding God's presence and grace in the imperfections of married life and liturgical celebrations. Despite her initial frustration with less-than-perfect liturgies during the Easter Triduum, Ellen is reminded through prayer that God's grace is not limited by human imperfections. She draws a p…
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Thank God for Your Husband's Sex Drive | Ep. 165
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This episode focuses on the common issue among couples regarding the disparity in sex drives, a topic frequently brought up by listeners. We propose a perspective shift, suggesting couples view these differences as blessings that can forward the relationship and increase intimacy. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this we…
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What Does the Church Actually Teach about Manual Stimulation? | Ep. 164
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In this episode, the focus is on the church's teachings regarding manual stimulation and masturbation within the context of marriage. We'll go through basically all of the different scenarios of manual stimulation from masturbation to stimulating the other person. Get the Orgasm Course for Catholic Women at vinesinfullbloom.com/orgasm _____________…
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Stop Treating Good Sexual Thoughts Like Intrusive Thoughts | Ep. 163
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In this episode of Charting Toward Intimacy, Ellen and Kathleen tackle the challenge of internalized purity culture and its impact on women's sexual thoughts. They discuss the phenomenon where healthy sexual desires within the context of marriage are mistakenly treated as intrusive thoughts due to purity culture's teachings. The discussion includes…
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Your Hormones Aren't the Reason You Have Low Sexual Desire | Ep. 162
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In this episode we'll address the misconception among individuals practicing Natural Family Planning (NFP) that their sexual desire only peaks during the fertile window due to hormonal influences. Listen in to see what you really need to change to experience more desire for sex! ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week…
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This episode addresses the complexities and challenges couples face regarding postpartum sex. The episode covers the expectations, fears, and physical changes women and their partners might experience, emphasizing the importance of communication, understanding, and patience. Techniques such as perineal massage and the use of lubricants are suggeste…
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Your Marriage Doesn't Need to Be Perfect | Ep. 160
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Ellen addresses the common pursuit of perfectionism in marriage and sexual relationships, emphasizing that perfection is not a prerequisite for intimacy or spiritual growth. She discusses how striving for a perfect relationship or sexual encounter can be paralyzing, whereas embracing the imperfection can lead to significant growth, healing, and a d…
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In this episode of 'Charting Toward Intimacy', Kathleen and Ellen discuss the misconception of sex being a love language. They explain that sex should be a result of love and intimacy rather than the base of it, and argue that using sex as the glue that holds a relationship together creates a false expectation and could become unfulfilling over tim…
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Are you reducing sex to a purely physical act? | Ep 158
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In this episode Ellen discusses the deep connection between sex and prayer. She implements the teachings of the Catechism, arguing that just as prayer cannot be reduced to spontaneous desire but requires an active will, sex should also not be reduced to spontaneous physical desire. She encourages listeners to recognize the depth of sexual relations…
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This podcast, led by Ellen Holloway and Kathleen Chavones, discusses the challenges of sticking to Natural Family Planning (NFP) during instances of limited fertile days and mandatory abstinence due to serious medical or financial constraints. It emphasizes how suffering and sacrifice are crucial elements of the Christian journey. They tackle the o…
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The Most Vulnerable Thing You Can Do | Ep. 156
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This episode focuses on the emotional complexities of initiating sex within a Catholic marriage, emphasizing the importance of understanding individual desires and the associated vulnerabilities. Through an in-depth discussion, Ellen addresses various misconceptions about physical desire and urges couples to explore deeper emotional and spiritual d…
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Is Sexual Passivity Ruining Your Sex Life? - With Mike "Gomer" Gormley | Ep. 155
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Mike 'Gomer' Gormley joins host Ellen as they discuss the detrimental effects of sexual passivity on marriage and ways to overcome it. Gomer provides valuable insights from a male perspective, emphasizing the importance of sexual initiation, communication, respect, and genuine love in maintaining a healthy sex life and marriage. The duo takes a dee…
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83. Mean Girls - A Cautionary Tale w/ Emily Schmitt
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Is Mean Girls the best movie of the 00’s? It’s likely the most quoted. Screenwriter Emily Schmitt joins us to discuss the movie, the musical, and now the movie musical, Mean Girls. So fetch! Episode 83 Show Host: Mike Tenney Show Page: https://www.awakencatholic.org/pop-culture-catechism/mean-girls-a-catuionary-tale-w-emily-schmitt Emily’s Website:…
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How to Take the Pressure Off of Sex | Ep. 154
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In this podcast episode, Ellen addresses the challenge of navigating sex within a marriage, particularly from a Catholic perspective. She discusses a situation where a couple put such heavy emphasis on the religious significance of sex that it led to tension and avoidance, reducing their sexual encounters drastically. Ellen proposes that adding a s…
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In this podcast Ellen, discusses the idea of women becoming gatekeepers of sex in a relationship, specifically within the context of a Catholic marriage and family planning. In conversation with guest Grace Stark, editor for Natural Womanhood, they suggest that the issue can be seen as an issue of communication rather than a power struggle. They di…
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If You Could Re-do Your Wedding Night, What Would You Change? | Ep. 152
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In this episode, hosts Ellen and Kathleen talk about lessons they wish they knew on their wedding night. They highlight the importance of open communication, and understanding the depth and holiness of sex within marriage, and how it goes beyond just fulfilling an urge. They emphasize the need to translate the intellectual understanding of the sanc…
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In this episode, we discuss the common scenario of feeling too tired for marital intimacy. We'll talk about the importance of identifying the root cause, be it a heavy workload, miscommunication, or simply needing more sleep. Here's some of the big takeaways: understand each other's perspectives, engage in active communication, take a fresh look at…
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Pornography, Sex Manuals, and Sex Therapy, Oh My! with Dr. Sarah Bartel | Ep. 150
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Ellen is joined by Dr. Sarah Bartel for part 2 of their conversation on licit and illicit acts. The episode focuses primarily on pornography, sex manuals, sex therapy, and imaginative role-play in marriage. They stress the importance of respecting both the unitive and procreative functions of sex in Catholic teaching. Please go listen to the episod…
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Sex Toys, Lingerie, and Orgasms, Oh My! With Dr. Sarah Bartel | Ep. 149
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Ellen discusses sex and intimacy within the confines of Catholic marriage with guest Dr. Sarah Bartel. The primary focus is on demystifying varying questions related to sexual acts in Catholic marriage, ensuring they respect both the procreative and unitive aspects of sex. These include discussions on topics as varied as the use of sex toys, wearin…
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82. What Mary Did & Didn’t Know - Mary Did You Know?
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It’s the question Catholics love to argue about. Let’s get into it. Mary Did you Know? Episode 82 Show Host: Mike Tenney Show Page: https://www.awakencatholic.org/pop-culture-catechism/what-did-and-didnt-mary-know-mary-did-you-know Catholic Merch - https://catholicmerch.store Join my Patron Community www.PopCultureCatechism.com Listen wherever you …
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Never Give up on Intimacy: A Deep Dive into Despair | Ep. 148
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Ellen and Kathleen are discussing on how to overcome despair and struggles associated with intimacy in a marriage. They emphasize that giving in to despair only strengthens the negative forces affecting our lives. They stress the importance of holding onto faith and prayer, and provide tips for dealing with difficult periods. ______________________…
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81. Songs about S*x w/ Ellen Holloway (Charting Toward Intimacy)
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If you’ve ever had sex or thought about sex, this episode is for you. Ellen Holloway is a Sexuality & Intimacy coach, with a certificate in Fundamentals of Sex Therapy, and the author of “The Orgasm Course for Catholic Women.” This conversation was amazing and I know I will be listening back to it for years to come. This episode is not one to miss.…
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We're talking about why recording sexual encounters between spouses is not in line with the Catholic understanding of marital intimacy. The discussion explores the sanctity of sex within marriage, emphasizing the importance of privacy and mutual self-gift. Ultimately, the episode underscores the importance of present commitment and love in sexual r…
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Your Assumptions Are Killing Your Sex Life | Ep. 146
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Ellen and Kathleen discuss a myriad of assumptions women often make about sex, how they negatively impact one's sex life, and how to overcome them. They delve into the concepts of responsive and spontaneous desires, discuss misconceptions about men and women's sexual needs, emphasize the importance of communication in sex, and highlight that sex is…
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80. Celine Dion - Faith, Hope, & Love w/ Audrey Assad
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Mike sits down with Audrey Assad who shares very freely about her journey away from the Catholic faith, her music, her healing and her heart. All of this and more as we also geek out about Celine Dion. Mike‘s wife also makes a few cameos to sing. Episode 80 Show Host: Mike Tenney Audrey’s Info: IG: http://instagram.com/audreyassad Tw: http://twitte…
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Arousal Curves and Getting Past Plateau | Ep. 145
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Ever been stuck during arousal because you hit a plateau and you don't know what happens next? This episode is for you. Ellen outlines two main models for understanding and navigating female sexual arousal in this episode. Masters and Johnson's four-phase linear model, which is applicable for both men and women, includes excitement, plateau, orgasm…
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How Do You Find Peace When Sex and Family Planning Don’t Go as Planned? | Ep. 144
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Ellen and Kathleen discuss the topic of finding peace when sex and family planning don't go as planned. They delve into how controlling sexual outcomes can hinder the freedom and fullness that are inherent in marital intimacy. They suggest that recognizing the divine role in every sexual act and outcome, and surrendering the need for control, can l…
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79. The Hunger Games, Israel, Palestine, & the Cycle of Violence w/ Dr. Shyam Sriram
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A muslim & a catholic walk into a discussion on The Hunger Games, geopolitics, and human nature. This episode is unlike any I’ve done before. Dr. Shyam Sriram is an Indian-American, muslim convert, and a political science professor at a Jesuit Catholic college. He turned out to be the perfect person with whom to have an open-minded conversation abo…
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Embracing Patience: A Journey Toward Holiness and Intimacy | Ep. 143
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In this episode, Ellen discusses the virtue of patience, particularly in the context of sex, marital intimacy, and pregnancy. She explores the connection between patience and our spiritual, emotional well-being and offers practical tips to make waiting more bearable. Her key messages underline that patience is a stepping stone to holiness and is no…
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What if my husband doesn't agree with just reasons to use NFP? | Ep. 142
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In this episode of 'Charting Toward Intimacy', Ellen is joined by Kathleen's husband Michael. We'll explore how couples should handle disagreements on Natural Family Planning (NFP). We delve into varying perspectives on the justifiable reasons for using NFP, and consider the implications when one spouse does not agree with its use. The conversation…
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78. Olivia Rodrigo & the Theology of Style w/ Lillian Fallon
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It’s been 2 years since Olivia Rodrigo trampled the music scene with her debut “Sour,” and her new follow up “Guts” is even more in your face. Lillian Fallon, author of “A Theology of Style” joins us to talk about self image, modern dating, life in the fashion industry, and why O Rod’s music is just so so so good. Episode 78 Show Host: Mike Tenney …
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"I like spontaneity when it comes to sex, scheduled sex just seems too bland or routine" "Sex shouldn't be something you have to schedule a good sex life just happens" "If you schedule sex then you take out all the fun of it" These are all lies and awful ones at that. In this episode we're going to talk about why the idea of spontaneous sex is real…
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Feeling like you're in a rut? Looking for some suggestion on how to get out of said rut? This is the episode for you. Ellen and Kathleen share from personal experience some of the best ways to get out of a sex rut. The Orgasm Course for Catholic Women is available now. Sign up for lifetime access. We highly recommend checking out Pray More Novenas …
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77. Taylor’s Eras & the Liturgy of Concerts w/ Julia Strukley
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Mike and his friend Julia (Seven Mile Chats) went to the Eras tour and it reminded us of the mass. This episode is us being Taylor/pop music/Theology/Liturgy nerds turned up to 11. Episode 77 Show Host: Mike Tenney Julie's website - www.ourgirltalk.org Show Page: https://www.awakencatholic.org/pop-culture-catechism/taylors-eras-tour-and-the-liturgy…
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Touched Out and Bristle Touch. These are the two types of negative reactions to touch that we are talking about on the podcast today. We'll explain what those two things are and give you tips to combat them! ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Have a question you wa…
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Kesey Skoch joins us this week to talk about how our oversexualized culture is hurting our marriages, especially in the form of pornography. We talk about the real definition of pornography and how most of us have been exposed to pornography way more than we even realize. To hear Kelsey's story or get more information on how to be free, click here.…
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Authentically Catholic Sex Education | Ep. 137
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How was your sex education? Probably bad and not enough. In this episode we are diving into what is needed today in the church for adults: authentically Catholic sex education. We'll talk about what that is, where to find it, and why it's needed. The Orgasm Course for Catholic Women is LIVE. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book…
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We are answering a listener question in a full episode this week. We got a question about pregnancy sex and how it works with all the hormones, things feeling different, and positions. Listen in for tips ranging from positions to emotional support broken down by trimester. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's epi…
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76. Barbie, Ken, and the Feminine Genius w/ Julie Larkin (Girl Talk)
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Hi Barbie! It's the biggest movie of the year and it's weird and funny and loud and thought provoking. I was not expecting to like this movie as much as I did and I'm so glad I got to talk to the founder of Girl Talk, Julie Larkin. She has a wealth of experience working with young women and a grounded and wise perspective on what it's like to be a …
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Do you initiate regularly? If you don't, we think you should. But believe us, we're not sitting on our high thrones looking down on you with this topic, we're right there in the thick of getting more comfortable initiating ourselves. In this episode we're talking a little bit about why you should initiate more often, the conversations you need to h…
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People pleasers and rule followers unite! We're talking about breaking the NFP rules in this episode and what that looks like for your marriage, potential pregnancies, and how your NFP instructor really doesn't care if you're choosing to break the rules. But also, if you "break the rules" meaning you use days within your fertile window, you should …
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75. Gilmore Girls w/ Allison Sullivan
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Is there any show more important for millennial women than Gilmore Girls? Rory, Lorelai, & Emily Gilmore have something to teach us if we are paying attention: What does it take to be a good mother? A good daughter? Does privilege ruin us? Is feminism all it’s cracked up to be? What should a woman look for in a man? Allison Sullivan, creator of the…
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We're myth busting some common NFP Myths this week with special guest Agata! Ever wondered how to respond when people come at you with misunderstandings or just plain wrong info about NFP, fertility awareness or female fertility in general. We've got some answers and responses for you right here! ___________________________________ Did we mention a…
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God calls us to some very difficult situations especially concerning chastity and sexual ethics and morality within marriage. This comes up a lot during the fertile window when a couple is trying to avoid pregnancy and therefore needs to abstain. This week we are talking about how God will never put you in a situation that you can't get through wit…
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