About this episode

The episode discusses the importance of open communication about sex in relationships with guests Vanessa and Xander Marin.

Sex is one of the most important parts of a relationship—and one of the hardest topics for couples to talk about openly. Vanessa Marin, licensed psychotherapist and author of Sex Talks, joins Julie & Yue alongside her husband and collaborator Xander Marin to unpack why conversations around intimacy often feel so uncomfortable, and how avoidance can quietly create distance in relationships. Together, they explore how communication, emotional safety, and vulnerability shape intimacy far beyond the physical side of sex. In this episode, you’ll learn: - Why so many couples struggle to talk about sex openly - How avoidance impacts intimacy and emotional connection - Ways to communicate needs without shame or pressure - Why emotional safety is essential for a healthy sex life - How better conversations can strengthen intimacy overall To learn more about Vanessa and Xander Marin, follow them @vanessaandxander and visit vmtherapy.com. Want to feel more connected to your partner? Download Brick and get 10% off at https://www.getbrick.app/PORSHOW Our Sponsors: * Omaha Steaks: Try the Burger Perfection Flight at OmahaSteaks.com today. That’s 20 premium steak burgers for just $79.99. Plus…

People in this episode

Hosts: Julie Krafchick, Yue Xu

Guests: Vanessa Marin, Xander Marin

Topics covered

• intimacy
• communication
• emotional safety
• relationships
• sex education

Keywords

• sex talks
• couples communication
• intimacy issues
• emotional connection
• vulnerability

Sponsors

Omaha Steaks, Quince, Talkiatry

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: vmtherapy.com

More episodes of The Psychology of Relationships

• Money & Relationships: What Financial Compatibility Really Means for Couples w/ Joe Gavazza · September 10, 2026 · 38 min
• Relationship Self-Sabotage: Why We Push Away the Love We Actually Want w/ Dr. Raquel Peel · September 3, 2026 · 43 min
• Marriage 101: The Relationship Skills Nobody Ever Taught You w/ Dr. Alexandra Solomon · August 27, 2026 · 50 min
• The New Science of Emergent Love: How to Build Relationships That Grow Instead of Collapse w/ Dr. Sara Nasserzadi · August 20, 2026 · 1h 2m
• How to Break Toxic Relationship Cycles for Good w/ Pharaoh Kyle · August 6, 2026 · 50 min
• The Science Behind Knowing Yourself: How Self-Awareness Changes the Way You Love w/ Dr Tasha Eurich · July 30, 2026 · 49 min

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the The Psychology of Relationships podcast page.