S03E19. Breaking Bedroom Taboos: Honest Conversations About Sex and Connection with Vanessa Marin

Discover how sex and connection impact your relationships—especially when shame, body image, or parenthood get in the way. 

In this juicy episode of The Clear Skin Chronicles, Katie and Cris get real with celeb sex therapist Vanessa Marin. From navigating mismatched libidos to getting intimate when you’re breaking out (yep, acne and all), nothing’s off-limits. They bust taboos, tackle shame, and share laugh-out-loud moments along the way. It’s the kind of honest, feel-good convo that’ll leave you feeling seen, empowered, and ready to turn up the connection in your love life.

🔍 Topics We Dive Into:

• Sex talk = less shame, more satisfaction.
• Gen Z is all about emotional intimacy.
• Pleasure > perfection — acne included.
• Desire doesn’t have to be instant.
• Hugs and gratitude keep the spark alive.

About The Guest:

Vanessa Marin is a sex therapist and instant New York Times Best Selling author of Sex Talks: The Five Conversations That Will Transform Your Love Life, co-written with her husband and partner-in-crime, Xander Marin.

Vanessa is here to help you kick shame out of the bedroom so you can start feeling the connection, pleasure, and joy you deserve!

Vanessa has been featured thousands of times in major publications like O, The Oprah Magazine, Harper’s Bazaar, Vogue, and Goop, and has written for The New York Times, Allure, and Lifehacker.

You may have also seen her and Xander over on Instagram @vanessaandxander or on their #1 sexuality podcast, Pillow Talks where they’re sharing totally do-able sex tips, practical relationship advice, hilarious and honest stories of what really goes on behind closed bedroom doors.

Connect with Vanessa:
Socials: @vanessaandxander
Website: https://vmtherapy.com

Let’s Connect

• Book a free call and let’s chat about how we can help here.
• Download The Gut Loving Cheat Sheet, here.
• Follow Katie on Instagram, here.

Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in these blogs and podcasts is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, medications, or lifestyle. Content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or care.