Charting Toward Intimacy (Ellen Holloway)
Explorez tous les épisodes de Charting Toward Intimacy
| Date | Titre | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 27 Feb 2023 | Sex is Holy | Ep. 106 | 00:30:13 | |
Do you still struggle with reconciling that sex is good and holy? It's so common for us to think of sex as something bad or dirty, but it's not, I repeat NOT bad and dirty. Sex is good, it's better than good, it's HOLY. If you're wondering what we meant by unity cross, click here! Sorry that Googling "unity cross" doesn't actually give you what we meant! ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 01 Mar 2023 | NFP Basics | A New Way to Introduce NFP in Marriage Prep | Bonus Episode | 00:13:04 | |
NFP Basics is an add-on marriage preparation module that any marriage prep/pre-cana program can easily implement into their program. NFP Basics covers the theology behind why the church teaches NFP for family planning and why the church has a prohibition on contraception and fertility treatments like IVF. Then the program covers basic fertility science and gives an overview of most of the major methods available to couples to track the woman's cycle and plan their family. In this episode, Ellen is on to tell you a little more about the program and her experience implementing this in a number of dioceses in California. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 06 Mar 2023 | Responsible Parenthood: A Powerhouse Term | Ep 107 | 00:31:33 | |
We'd like to present the term "Responsible Parenthood" as the new word we start using when we are describing what Catholic married couples do when they discern children, use NFP, and really just live out their lives as married couples, regardless of fertility status. The term NFP falls short when we have discussions about what Catholic married couples are called to. NFP, after all, is just a tool. Responsible Parenthood, according to St. Pope Paul VI is a way of life that all married couples are called to live. Read along in Humanae Vitae with us. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 08 Mar 2023 | Let Me Tell You About Teena | Bonus Episode | 00:11:00 | |
Teena is a product designed for teens and preteens to get them excited about cycle tracking and help them understand what is going on in their cycle. I'm really excited to share this completely honest review with you. Teena did provide me one of their devices for free to check it out, but my review is completely my own. Head over to Instagram to enter the giveaway! Want to purchase a Teena for your teen? Get $20 off here. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 13 Mar 2023 | Emotional or Physical Intimacy: Which Comes First? | Ep. 108 | 00:30:39 | |
Kind of like the question of the chicken or the egg, which comes first physical or emotional intimacy? Well there are two basic camps that people typically fall into: (1) those who desire physical intimacy in order to feel emotionally close or (2) those who need to feel emotionally intimate before they are ready to be physically intimate. Here's the fun part, a lot of times, couples are matched up where one spouse is one of those categories and the other spouse is the opposite! This week we're breaking down what these categories are and giving you some tips to work on both your physical and your emotional intimacy. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 20 Mar 2023 | God Is the Model of Intimate Sexual Communication | Ep. 109 | 00:31:34 | |
God is the model of intimate sexual communication...excuse me, what?!? In this episode we're discussing how because our marriages are an image of the relationship God wants to have with us, the ways that God communicates with his people in the Old Testament is a model for us of how we should be communicating in our most intimate relationships. Namely, God is EXTREMELY specific, and you should be too! We'll give you some tips, our own experience, and some more background on this concept. Interested in checking out the Tighten Your Tinkler signature program? Click Here Use the code CHARTING50 to get $50 off. Check out Episode 70 with Jenn: Your Pelvic Floor is not a Magical Unicorn ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 27 Mar 2023 | A Watched Pot Never Boils | Ep. 110 | 00:33:25 | |
Have you ever felt like it's impossible to actually desire sex or to get turned on? Like the pot that doesn't boil until you walk away from it, you might be like us and not get turned on if you're thinking too much about it. It's not until you walk away, or focus on something else that your desire pokes its head out and looks around. We'll talk strategy and tips for getting your own pot to boil! Interested in checking out the Tighten Your Tinkler signature program? Click Here Use the code CHARTING50 to get $50 off. Check out Episode 70 with Jenn: Your Pelvic Floor is not a Magical Unicorn ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 03 Apr 2023 | Foreplay categories! | Ep. 111 | 00:31:26 | |
Ellen and Kathleen are back with another Charting Toward Intimacy episode. This week, we are talking about foreplay. What is foreplay? We have two basic categories for you Anticipatory Foreplay and Escalatory Foreplay Anticipatory Foreplay is simply things that make you anticipate sex at some point in the future. Anticipatory is more emotional in nature, but can still be physical. Escalatory Foreplay is things that lead to arousal and then sex. Escalatory is more physical in nature, but can still be emotional. Anticipatory Foreplay can last a day or two or a week. Escalatory is more immediately leading to sex within the next few minutes or hour (ish), it's different for every couple. Interested in checking out the Tighten Your Tinkler signature program? Click Here Use the code CHARTING50 to get $50 off. Check out Episode 70 with Jenn: Your Pelvic Floor is not a Magical Unicorn ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 10 Apr 2023 | Scheduling Sex | Ep. 112 | 00:23:17 | |
In this episode we are talking about scheduling sex--pros and cons, when it works and when it doesn't. Scheduling sex is a tool in the arsenal of ways to improve your sexual relationship. But here's the thing, scheduling does not work for every couple. Maybe it works for both of you, neither of you, or maybe it works for one spouse and not the other. For example, Here's a pro for scheduling sex: We give priority to things that are on the schedule. Are you prioritizing sex? If scheduling sex allows you to anticipate it, then scheduling might work great for you! But here's an example on the other side: sometimes life is unpredictable. Flexibility is so important; you need to have that flexibility. When scheduling sex becomes a pressure to have sex even if you have a really hard day, it could set you up for disappointment and duty sex (which is never a good thing). When it comes to scheduling sex, it's not going to work for everybody. There are a lot of different ways to go about scheduling sex and that's what we're talking about in this week's episode. Give it a listen, and maybe give it a try! Interested in checking out the Tighten Your Tinkler signature program? Click Here Use the code CHARTING50 to get $50 off. Check out Episode 70 with Jenn: Your Pelvic Floor is not a Magical Unicorn ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 17 Apr 2023 | Holiness is Hard | Ep 113 | 00:30:46 | |
Ever heard the phrase "It's just not supposed to be this hard!" Maybe you've said it yourself. Well when it comes to your sanctification, it actually probably is supposed to be that hard. Holiness is hard, really hard. We're talking about how holiness is hard in relation to married life. A lot of the time engaged and married couples have a lack of understanding that marriage is for the other person and for sanctification, it's not for you and your happiness. The goal of marriage is to get you to human flourishing, but it's not through easy, it's through hard. When things start getting hard in your marriage, that's when you know you're actually on the right track. Here's some things that are hard in marriage, that actually aren't supposed to be easy: -NFP -Sex -Abstinence -Kids -Pregnancy -Finances In this episode we're going to be discussing that while life is hard, and holiness is through hardship, we're not just called to sit back and let the hard make us miserable. We should be actively engaging in the hardness and asking ourselves: how can I grow in holiness in this time? Work like it all depends on you, but pray like it depends on God. Interested in checking out the episode we mentioned about marriage being a battleground? A Letter from St. Valentine to Married Couples | Episode 104 Interested in checking out the Tighten Your Tinkler signature program? Click Here Use the code CHARTING50 to get $50 off. Check out Episode 70 with Jenn: Your Pelvic Floor is not a Magical Unicorn ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 24 Apr 2023 | Can NFP be Used Selfishly? | Ep. 114 | 00:30:32 | |
Let's talk about selfishness and NFP! This episode is stemming from a lot of talk about "contraceptive mentality." We're not really talking about contraceptive mentality in this episode, we're talking about the underlying question behind the conversations about contraceptive mentality: Can NFP be used selfishly? what about if you change the semantics and ask this question: can fertility awareness be used selfishly? The answer is actually different and we dive into what those answers are and why they're different. Here's a hint at the answers: NFP is not self correcting system where if your reason to avoid pregnancy is not "good enough" or "serious enough" you and your spouse won't be able to abstain for the fertile window. That's just not true for many couples. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 01 May 2023 | Sexual Wounds and Your Vocation with Sr. M. Karolyn Nunes | Ep. 115 | 00:44:13 | |
Sister M. Karolyn Nunes is joining us this week to talk about sexual wounds and healing. As the vocation director of her community, Sr. Karolyn helps to direct many women discerning religious life to start their own healing journeys when they have sexual wounds. One of the things lacking in marriage prep is ensuring that the healing process has begun for sexual issues, baggage, addictions, etc. Sr. Karolyn is chatting with us about how we can integrate this healing into our own lives whether we are preparing for marriage or we've been married for 25 years. Interested in the book Sr. Karolyn mentioned? Into Your Hands Father by Wilfred Stinissen ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 08 May 2023 | Tips for Your First Time | Ep. 116 | 00:49:48 | |
Got questions about your first time? We have answers! Kathleen and Ellen share a little bit about their own first times to make you feel like you're not alone if your first time is.....not so great. We touch on questions like "what lube should we use?" "How do we figure out positions?" "What if we're tired on the wedding night?" "My friend told me about bleeding, what's the deal with that?" Our Lube recommendations: Almond oil or Jojoba Oil Mentionables (get 10% off with code Ellen10) ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 15 May 2023 | What the Heck is NFP? | Ep. 117 | 00:28:20 | |
Want to get started with NFP but don't know where to go? Heard of NFP but you don't really know what it is? Have some questions about Natural Family Planning that you haven't been able to get a clear answer on? Look no further than this episode. Kathleen and Ellen answer the basic question of "What the heck is NFP?" We go over the cycle, methods of fertility awareness, the difference between birth control and using NFP, and a bunch of frequently asked questions about NFP like "why does is cost money?" and "do I need to have an instructor?" Looking for the method match course or coaching we talked about in the episode? Click here! ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 22 May 2023 | Sacramentality of Sex | Ep. 118 | 00:36:05 | |
Sex is a window to something greater. It is an icon, or image, of God's love for us. Even within good, faithful Catholic marriages, sex can be a point of contention because we aren't seeing God through sex and our sexual relationship. We're looking at sex not through sex. When you switch your mindset and start to look through sex toward God, it becomes easier to love your spouse. (not EASY, it becomes EASIER!) ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 29 May 2023 | Spontaneous Vs. Responsive Desire | Ep. 119 | 00:27:08 | |
Did you know there are two main types of desire? Spontaneous and Responsive. If you feel like your desire is always lacking or you "never" feel like having sex, you might have responsive desire. Guess what: You're not broken at all. In fact, you're completely normal. When it comes to desire, sometimes just the knowledge of what kind of desire you have can help so much! ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 05 Jun 2023 | Sex is a Team Sport | Ep. 120 | 00:30:01 | |
Here's the deal, you're not going to get good at sex by yourself. It takes two to tango! Sex is a team effort, and it takes practice to get good! The best sex happens when each spouse is focused more on the other than on themselves. If you're looking to get to have all-star sex, you need to train like an athlete. That means practice, communicate, and practice more! ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 12 Jun 2023 | One Surefire Way to Improve Your Sex Life with Dr. Sarah Bartel | Ep. 121 | 00:30:19 | |
It might not sound as sexy as you think. The one thing you can do to improve your sex life is to work on your marriage as a whole! Looking for Abundant the full marriage course we mentioned on the podcast? Click right here! If you sign up through this link, you'll get a free one hour coaching session with Ellen alongside the course! ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 19 Jun 2023 | You Have to Ask for What You Want | Ep. 122 | 00:33:04 | |
Guess what! You and your spouse are different people who have different wants and needs. Your spouse is not going to want the exact same things you want and you're not going to want the exact things your spouse wants. In fact, you spouse might not care one bit about something you want, and THAT'S OK. Here's why, it's your job as spouse to communicate your wants and needs to your spouse. Your spouse isn't going to care unless you share how important it is to you. Sometimes that means you have to ask more than once. Sometimes it means you have to ask more than 10 times. Sometimes it means you have to charitably ask every single day for multiple years until it becomes clear how important it is. This applies both in and out of the bedroom too! Listen in for more on this topic and examples of how we've seen this play out in our marriages. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 26 Jun 2023 | Why All the Rules? | Ep. 123 | 00:27:25 | |
We are talking today about rules--the rules of our faith and how the rules around our faith are not arbitrary or oppressive! The church should not be viewed as oppressive, especially in regards to our sexuality. There's a really good reason it's not just free for all, and we're going to get into that in this episode. The Screwtape Letters by CS Lewis ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 03 Jul 2023 | Sex, Contraception, the Mass, and Blasphemy | Ep. 124 | 00:33:29 | |
The Sacrament of Marriage and the Sacrament of the Eucharist have some incredible connections. In fact, marriage acts as a sort of analogy for the Mass. We're going to dive into this and even more in this episode. If marriage is an analogy for the Mass, what kinds of connections can be made about the use of contraception in a marriage and what that would look like analogously in the Mass? We'll answer that question too! ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 10 Jul 2023 | Characteristics of a Healthy and Mature Sexual Relationship | Ep. 125 | 00:37:17 | |
What constitutes a healthy sexual relationship? How do you know if you and your spouse have a healthy and mature sexual relationship? We dive into the characteristics of a healthy sexual relationship in this episode so that you can take stock of your own relationship. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 17 Jul 2023 | Your Mindset Around Sex | Ep 126 | 00:30:52 | |
We're talking mindset when it comes to sex for those of us ladies. This is a huge topic and we just scratch the surface on opening up some of the reasons we think and act the way we do around sex and some tips on how to improve your mindset when it comes to sex! ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 24 Jul 2023 | Living Your Best Life Throughout Your Cycle | Episode 127 | 00:35:44 | |
Every heard the term cycle syncing? well that's not what we're talking about in this episode. We're talking about ways to understand how to live your life to the fullest through the different phases of your cycle. How can you maximize your energy levels and focus on family time in ways that won't make you stomp around your house wanting to throw everything out! ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 31 Jul 2023 | Overcoming Pain | Ep 128 | 00:29:05 | |
Pain with Sex is not normal. Let me say that again. Pain with sex is not normal. If you're experiencing pain, let this episode be the wakeup call you need to do something about the pain you're experiencing. Kathleen and Ellen share some of their experiences with pain and discomfort and give you some tips if you are experiencing pain! Links: Tighten Your Tinkler use code CHARTING50 for $50 off! ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 07 Aug 2023 | The Banquet | Ep. 129 | 00:29:40 | |
What is the Eternal Banquet, the wedding feast of the Lamb? What is that really? I mean honestly we don't know, but God gives us windows to peer in and see tiny glimmers of the glory that await us in Heaven. Sometimes we turn those windows, those icons to heaven into idols. Sex is one of those things that we idolize. In this episode we'll pose the question that you need to regularly be asking yourself, am I making an idol out of sex or am I allowing it to be the icon that it was designed to be? Disputation of the Holy Sacrament - This is the one we didn't know the name of! ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 14 Aug 2023 | Do You Talk About Sex Everyday? | Ep. 130 | 00:30:04 | |
Talking about sex can be very intimidating. We urge you to talk about "it" with your spouse regularly on this podcast, but how do you get into the habit of communicating about sex We'd like to introduce you to a new idea on how to bring the topic of sex into conversation on a regular basis and why it is important to regularly communicate about sex. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 21 Aug 2023 | Defining Licit and Illicit Actions | Ep. 131 | 00:32:28 | |
How do I know if something is morally good or bad? Is there a way to judge the things we do in life (especially in the sexual realm) to know if it's the right thing to do? Yes! there is a way to judge human actions. The Church gives us a very clear, step-by-step process to evaluate the morality of an action. Ellen will talk you through these steps in this week's episode! ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 28 Aug 2023 | You Can Do Hard Things | Ep. 132 | 00:29:06 | |
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 without his grace. You just have to be open to that grace ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 04 Sep 2023 | Myth Busting NFP | Ep. 133 | 00:33:59 | |
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 book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 11 Sep 2023 | Rule Breaking | Ep 134 | 00:28:38 | |
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 fully expect a possible pregnancy. Don't get mad at your body for working the way it's suppose to work. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 18 Sep 2023 | Initiating | Ep. 135 | 00:27:56 | |
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 have with your husband BEFORE you start initiating more regularly, and some ways to initiate if the idea of saying the words "Do you wannna have sex tonight?" makes you want to want to hide under your pillow or blush with embarrassment. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 25 Sep 2023 | Pregnancy Sex! | Ep. 136 | 00:30:38 | |
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 episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 02 Oct 2023 | Authentically Catholic Sex Education | Ep. 137 | 00:23:32 | |
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 on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 09 Oct 2023 | Oversexualized Culture | Ep. 138 | 00:32:55 | |
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. The Orgasm Course for Catholic Women is available here. Special launch pricing of only $50 ends on October 6th, 2023. After that it goes up to $99, so get it now. If the link doesn't work for you, send me an email at podcast@ellenholloway.com ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 16 Oct 2023 | All the Touches We Don't Want | Ep. 139 | 00:27:21 | |
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! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 23 Oct 2023 | How to get out of a sex rut | Ep. 140 | 00:30:51 | |
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 if you have trouble remembering to complete a novena! ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 30 Oct 2023 | Spontaneity is Crap | Ep. 141 | 00:24:22 | |
"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 really not the approach you should be taking when it comes to your sex life. In fact, sex should be quite the opposite of spontaneous, it should be a priority. But we're not just talking about scheduling sex, we're digging into what people really want when they say that sex shouldn't be scheduled it should be spontaneous. Links: ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 06 Nov 2023 | What if my husband doesn't agree with just reasons to use NFP? | Ep. 142 | 00:24:51 | |
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 covers the importance of effective communication, recognizing personal desires versus pleasure, and the significance of divine judgement in one's decisions. The episode emphasizes the need for empathy, understanding, and mutual alignment in a marriage with regards to NFP, while acknowledging the individual uniqueness of each relationship. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 13 Nov 2023 | Embracing Patience: A Journey Toward Holiness and Intimacy | Ep. 143 | 00:16:34 | |
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 not a burden. She emphasizes the need to embrace patience and view it as an opportunity for growth and spiritual development, going so far as to associate it with joy. Toward the end of the episode, she provides some strategies for practicing patience, like seeking holy distractions and understanding the root cause of any frustration or anger associated with waiting. APPLY NOW for the 2024 GIVEN Cohort Thank you to the GIVEN Institute for sponsoring this week's episode. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 20 Nov 2023 | How Do You Find Peace When Sex and Family Planning Don’t Go as Planned? | Ep. 144 | 00:33:12 | |
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 lead to peace in family planning, even when things go awry. They also discuss the pressure of societal norms vis-a-vis family size, and encourage listeners to pray for peace in surrendering their families to God's divine plan. The Orgasm Course for Catholic Women ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 27 Nov 2023 | Arousal Curves and Getting Past Plateau | Ep. 145 | 00:14:16 | |
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.
Get The Orgasm Course for Catholic Women! ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 04 Dec 2023 | Your Assumptions Are Killing Your Sex Life | Ep. 146 | 00:28:37 | |
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 an individualized experience, unique to each couple. Get The Orgasm Course for Catholic Women ON SALE in honor of the Immaculate Conception! Codes available through December 8, 2023 at 11:59 pm PT Use code IMMACULATE49 for $49 dollars off (only 8 available) Use code IMMACULATE29 for $29 dollars off (only 16 available) Use code IMMACULATE for $19 dollars off (unlimited available) ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 25 Dec 2023 | Sex Toys, Lingerie, and Orgasms, Oh My! With Dr. Sarah Bartel | Ep. 149 | 00:29:47 | |
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, wearing lingerie, and the acceptance of different sexual acts. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 01 Jan 2024 | Pornography, Sex Manuals, and Sex Therapy, Oh My! with Dr. Sarah Bartel | Ep. 150 | 00:36:04 | |
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 episode prior to this one titled Sex Toys, Lingerie, and Orgasms, Oh My! with Dr. Sarah Bartel before listening to this follow up conversation. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 11 Dec 2023 | Can Catholics Record Sex? | Ep. 147 | 00:14:12 | |
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 relationships rather than objectifying and recording the act. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 18 Dec 2023 | Never Give up on Intimacy: A Deep Dive into Despair | Ep. 148 | 00:25:42 | |
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. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 08 Jan 2024 | Are You Too Tired For Sex? | Ep. 151 | 00:17:38 | |
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 sex, viewing it not as a chore but as a way to enhance intimacy and connection. Sex is vital in reinforcing the bond and renewing wedding vows, so being too tired for it is not an option. It's time to make some changes in your life. Looking for more pleasure in your sex life? Or maybe just looking for any pleasure at all? Get The Orgasm Course for Catholic Women! ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 15 Jan 2024 | If You Could Re-do Your Wedding Night, What Would You Change? | Ep. 152 | 00:26:50 | |
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 sanctity of sex to the heart. Both share their insights about how this realization has been a journey, requiring continual growth and wrestling with the realities of intimacy. Both hosts express a desire to normalize conversations about sex in their circles and feel that such communication is essential for a healthy understanding of intimacy. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 22 Jan 2024 | Are You the Gatekeeper of Sex? | Ep. 153 | 00:30:22 | |
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 discuss ways to foster stronger communication, and to share responsibility for family planning and initiating intimacy. Additionally, they delve into strategies to shift from a default 'no' response to a 'yes', fostering an atmosphere of openness and honesty within the relationship. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 29 Jan 2024 | How to Take the Pressure Off of Sex | Ep. 154 | 00:10:09 | |
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 sense of fun and lightness to one's sex life can relieve the pressure, fostering trust and openness between partners. This approach can be implemented via laughter-oriented activities, games, or playful preludes to sex, ultimately improving sexual intimacy and communication in marriage. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 05 Feb 2024 | Is Sexual Passivity Ruining Your Sex Life? - With Mike "Gomer" Gormley | Ep. 155 | 01:07:27 | |
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 deep dive into topics such as the significance of non-sexual touch, misconceptions about male and female sexual drives, and the role of honest, non-judgmental conversation in fostering intimacy. The podcast episode serves as a platform for open dialogue on a significant, yet often overlooked issue in relationships, encouraging listeners to rethink and reshape their attitudes towards marital intimacy. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 12 Feb 2024 | The Most Vulnerable Thing You Can Do | Ep. 156 | 00:15:17 | |
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 desires and how it relates to sexual intimacy. Helpful strategies are suggested for initiating and responding to initiation in a loving, considerate manner. The podcast closes with the need for clear communication and understanding in terms of family planning intentions and the perceived readiness for sexual intimacy in a woman's perspective. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 19 Feb 2024 | NFP is Unfair | Ep. 157 | 00:22:57 | |
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 often-perceived unfairness of NFP, clarifying how beliefs about God not wanting us to suffer are misleading. They argue that during these periods of struggle, couples need support from the virtues of prudence, temperance, and fortitude, and that relying on God's grace is essential to persevere through the difficulties. They conclude by acknowledging the hardships faced by couples in extreme circumstances, offering their respect and empathetic support. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 25 Feb 2024 | Are you reducing sex to a purely physical act? | Ep 158 | 00:16:11 | |
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 as an experience of unity and not just physical satisfaction. She also stresses that desire for sex should be understood as a longing for deeper unity and relationship with one's spouse. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 04 Mar 2024 | Sex is Not a Love Language | Ep. 159 | 00:26:57 | |
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 time. The five love languages - words of affirmation, quality time, receiving gifts, acts of service, and physical touch - are examined, with the assertion that each is inherently separate from sex. The necessity of understanding one's own and their partner's love languages to truly fulfill each other's needs is emphasized. Apply now to Ellen's 8-week one on one coaching program and see how your marriage and sex life can be transformed in just 2 months. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 11 Mar 2024 | Your Marriage Doesn't Need to Be Perfect | Ep. 160 | 00:12:08 | |
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 deeper bond. Trial, error, and grace-filled perseverance in sexual intimacy can transform and sanctify marriage. Get the Orgasm Course for Catholic Women at vinesinfullbloom.com/orgasm ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 18 Mar 2024 | Postpartum Sex! | Ep. 161 | 00:27:28 | |
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 suggested to ease discomfort and anxiety during postpartum sexual activity. Additionally, discussions include men's perspectives on postpartum sex, the importance of pelvic floor therapy, and the possible impact of SSRIs on sexual function. The episode is designed to equip couples with knowledge and tools to navigate postpartum sex, enhancing intimacy and relationship satisfaction. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 14 Feb 2022 | Valentine's Day When You Have to Abstain | Ep. 59 | 00:32:01 | |
Happy Valentine's Day! We threw a little bonus episode in here for you because it's Valentine's Day and you might have to sit in the suck of needing to abstain today. Don't worry, you're not alone! ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 21 Feb 2022 | Healthy Nutrition for Your Cycle | Ep. 60 | 00:27:24 | |
Kristen Jensen joins us to discuss healthy nutrition for your cycle. She's a wealth of knowledge, so be sure to have a notepad when you listen to this episode! For 20% off of any of Kristen's courses including her fertility course for using food to maximize your fertility use code podcast20 on her website: https://www.nourishedforliferd.com/ If you'd like the visual Kristen mentioned, send me an email! ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 07 Mar 2022 | Chastity | Ep. 61 | 00:32:57 | |
Ever wondered what Chastity ACTUALLY is. Kathleen and Ellen break it down from the Catechism and call out all the wrong and negative definitions we've had about chastity our whole lives. Guess what "all the baptized are called to chastity" (CCC 2348) Buy yourself a copy of the Catechism ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 14 Mar 2022 | What IS NFP and Fertility Awareness Mindset Coaching? | Ep. 62 | 00:34:53 | |
Emily Frase comes to share with us her experience in coaching people in NFP and FA mindset over the past year. At this time Emily is not accepting new clients. Stay connected with Emily on Instagram in the mean time ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 21 Mar 2022 | Crappy Charting (and how to overcome it) | Ep. 63 | 00:32:50 | |
Raise your hand if you're a crappy charter! Kathleen and Ellen both are sometimes and we talk about why it's not good to be a crappy charter and how to overcome it if you're in a season of crappy charting. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 28 Mar 2022 | Cycle Syncing Your Life | Ep. 64 | 00:34:51 | |
We're joined by Kerigan (@catholicgirlwellness) to talk about working your life in step with your cycle can change everything! Listen in for tips on scheduling around your cycle and modifying things like workouts, social engagements, and work if you can! ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 04 Apr 2022 | Stories of Living NFP in Real Life with Kids (and Other People) | Ep. 65 | 00:32:09 | |
Get ready to laugh. Kathleen and I are sharing stories from the trenches of NFP life. The stories that happen when your kids find your "stuff," the stories that happen when you host a podcast about NFP and someone recognizes your name at a wedding, the stories that happen when you meet another Catholic mom and finally breach the "do you use NFP?" question. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 11 Apr 2022 | Tricia's Infertility Journey | NaPro, IUI, IVF, varicose seals, and perforated condoms, oh my! | Ep. 66 | 00:30:38 | |
Tricia joins us to share her NFP and infertility journey and how NaPro played a huge roll in her and her husband being able to conceive a child. Interested in learning more about IVF or perforated condoms? Check out the episodes on IVF with Melissa Buccan episodes 50 and 51! Part 1 and Part 2 ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 18 Apr 2022 | It felt like the church kept saying no... | Ep. 67 | 00:34:07 | |
This is a follow up episode to episode 66! If you haven't listened to Tricia's story, be sure to go back and take a listen to the episode right before this! We have Tricia back to share the thoughts and feelings of facing infertility, especially the feeling that God and the church kept saying no instead of actually helping her. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 25 Apr 2022 | Christy's Infertility Story - Natural Remedies and Restorative Medicine | Ep. 68 | 00:22:37 | |
This Infertility Awareness Week, we're sharing another story of a woman who has been through infertility and found help in natural remedies and restorative medicine, especially diet and rest! Listen in as Christy Murray shares her journey with us and her tips. Links: Christy's Website: www.blueveilwellness.com Free download mentioned on the episode www.fertilityboostingfoods.com ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions! Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to schedule a free 15 minute coaching call. Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com The Charting Toward Intimacy Patreon Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 02 May 2022 | Sex and Arousal in the Different Phases | Ep. 69 | 00:37:48 | |
Sex and arousal is very different throughout the cycle and Kathleen and I get into specifics about things that will work and things that won't during different phases of the cycle. **Marked explicit because we talk about specific positions, as always, please exercise prudence when listening to Charting Toward Intimacy episodes where others can hear** ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 16 May 2022 | Your Pelvic Floor is NOT a Magical Unicorn | Ep. 70 | 00:36:02 | |
Jenn of Tighten Your Tinkler joins us to talk about the pelvic floor and how pelvic floor disfunction is something that is common, but not normal. I repeat, NOT NORMAL. If you're seeing signs of pelvic floor disfunction, that's something you need to start looking into so that it doesn't become a bigger issue later in life. Personal disclaimer: I signed up for their signature program and I cannot sing its praises enough. I loved the program and it helped with my personal symptoms I was seeing after 2 children. I highly encourage all of you to check out the Tighten Your Tinkler program and consider signing up! Purchase the Tighten Your Tinkler Signature Program here! Here's the quiz we mentioned on the episode. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 23 May 2022 | Licit and Illicit acts with Dr. Sarah Bartel (Part 1) | Ep. 71 | 00:33:21 | |
Dr. Sarah Bartel joins us to chat about licit and illicit acts when it comes to sex. With her doctorate in moral theology, she's definitely a great person to ask these questions to! Sarah also shares about she and her husband's marriage workshop in which they have a great module on sex which includes licit and illicit acts. I picked Sarah's brain about a couple common questions I get on the topic namely female orgasm, manual stimulation, and lingerie! Interested in checking out the premium Abundant workshop? https://abundant.canafeast.com/cti If you purchase the abundant workshop though this link you'll also get a 1-hour coaching session with me. If you have more questions about licit and illicit acts, book a coaching session with me below! ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 31 May 2022 | Prudence vs Generosity | Ep. 72 | 00:31:06 | |
Ever had the thought that Prudence and Generosity are opposites? So have we, but after careful study, we've realized they are inextricably linked and one really leads to the other if we are practicing a life of virtue! Did you listen to last episode? The FREE Little Way of Marriage Workshop is available at any time, head to http://www.littlewayofmarriage.com/cti ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 06 Jun 2022 | Licit and Illicit Acts with Dr. Sarah Bartel (Part 2) | Ep. 73 | 00:42:52 | |
Dr. Sarah Bartel is back for part 2! We had so much response from our first episode on licit and illicit acts and we didn't have time to cover everything. We dig into a few more topics here like pornography and imaginative play. Interested in checking out the Abundant workshop mentioned at the end? Head to https://abundant.canafeast.com/cti
If you have more questions about licit and illicit acts, book a coaching session with me below! ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 13 Jun 2022 | NFP isn't the Problem With Your Marriage | Ep. 74 | 00:32:33 | |
Hot takes here in this episode. We hear a lot of resentment about NFP, and Kathleen and I have been through those seasons of resentment as well, we're not immune to the struggles of NFP, but sometimes it's taken too far and the way NFP is talked about becomes entirely negative. NFP also sometimes gets blamed for all the problems in a marriage, and the thing is, NFP is a magnifying glass for problems already present in a marriage between two fallen humans. Marriage ministries we suggest: https://www.joyfuleverafter.org/ ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 20 Jun 2022 | Confessing Sexual Sin with Fr. Matthew Murray | Ep. 75 | 00:28:14 | |
Ever wondered how to go about confessing sexual sin, especially when you're embarrassed or feel shame around it? Fr. Matthew and I chat about these situations and some suggestions when it comes to sexual sin. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 27 Jun 2022 | The Acronyms and Phrases We Use (and the ones we should stop using!) | Ep. 76 | 00:50:27 | |
BBT, MM, CM, CrM, STM, DPO, P+3...... ever looked at all of those letters and numbers and wondered what they all mean? We power through ALLL of them (or as many as we could find). This episode's a long one, but definitely listen to the end because we talk about some of the problematic acronyms and phrases we use and why we should stop using them. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 04 Jul 2022 | Is Ellen Pregnant? - Processing the Emotions Around Pregnancy | Ep. 77 | 00:33:25 | |
Hey guys! this episode gets pretty personal as Kathleen and I process the emotions behind the possibility that I (Ellen) am pregnant with a method error pregnancy. This is something that a lot of us using NFP have either experienced or are scared of experiencing. Listen in for a real life conversation processing the possibility of being pregnant when I really don't want to be. Wondering what the outcome is? You'll have to listen to the end when I share. In a similar situation or feel like you need someone to talk to about other NFP related issues? Check out my coaching options below. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 11 Jul 2022 | Why Faith Matters in Reproductive Healthcare with Mary Kate Knorr | Ep. 78 | 00:29:52 | |
Get ready for a great conversation about faith and reproductive healthcare. We know they are both important on their own, but they make even more sense together! Reach out to Mary Kate Knorr: ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 18 Jul 2022 | NFP Through the Seasons: Charting During Adolescence | Ep. 79 | 00:29:08 | |
Welcome to our NFP through the seasons series! We'll go from Adolescence to Perimenopause and everything in between. We are starting with Charting in Adolescence with Hanna Cox Introducing your daughter to charting download ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 25 Jul 2022 | NFP Through the Seasons: Charting as a Single Woman | Ep. 80 | 00:23:14 | |
Welcome to our NFP through the seasons series! We'll go from Adolescence to Perimenopause and everything in between. Our second topic is charting as a single woman with Taryn DeLong ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 01 Aug 2022 | NFP Through the Seasons: Newly Married and TTA | Ep. 81 | 00:28:49 | |
Welcome to our NFP through the seasons series! We'll go from Adolescence to Perimenopause and everything in between. Our second topic is NFP use when you're newly married and TTA (Trying to Avoid) ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 08 Aug 2022 | NFP Through the Seasons: TTA (Trying to Avoid) In General | Ep. 82 | 00:24:45 | |
Welcome to our NFP through the seasons series! We'll go from Adolescence to Perimenopause and everything in between. This week's topic is NFP use when Trying to Avoid (TTA) in general. Jen and Logan of Surprised by Marriage join us this week. Check out their resources: https://surprisedbymarriage.com/ ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 15 Aug 2022 | NFP Through the Seasons: TTA with Irregular Cycles | Ep. 83 | 00:20:23 | |
Welcome to our NFP through the seasons series! We'll go from Adolescence to Perimenopause and everything in between. This week's topic is NFP use when Trying to Avoid (TTA) with irregularities in your cycle. Dr. Lisa Kimbell joins us to chat charting with both normal and abnormal cycle irregularities (think postpartum vs. charting with PCOS) and how NFP can still effectively be used during these seasons. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 22 Aug 2022 | NFP Through the seasons: TTC When it's "Easy" | Ep. 84 | 00:31:18 | |
Welcome to our NFP through the seasons series! We'll go from Adolescence to Perimenopause and everything in between. This week's topic is NFP when TTC (trying to conceive) when it's "easy". What we mean by easy is those of us who find ourselves pregnant before we even planned it or who decide to try and then get pregnant within just a cycle or two. Kathleen is here to share some thoughts and insights on this season which could be as short as a few hours! ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 29 Aug 2022 | NFP though the Seasons: TTC When it's "Difficult" | Ep. 85 | 00:28:15 | |
Welcome to our NFP through the seasons series! We'll go from Adolescence to Perimenopause and everything in between. This week's topic is NFP when TTC (trying to conceive) when it's "difficult". Courtney Warday is joining us this week. What we mean by difficult is when you've been in this season for a while, maybe you're working with fertility specialists or a NaPro doctor, maybe you go in and out of hope, disappointment, resentment, longing, and so many more emotions. This episode is for you! Thank you to Kegg for sponsoring today's episode. Use code charting10 for $10 off at kegg.tech ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 05 Sep 2022 | NFP Through the Seasons: Postpartum | Ep. 86 | 00:42:22 | |
Welcome to our NFP through the seasons series! We'll go from Adolescence to Perimenopause and everything in between. This week's topic is NFP during the postpartum season. Kristi from @postpartumgrace is joining us this week. If you're in it now, soon to be, or know someone in this season, this episode is a must listen! We talk methods, burnout, lack of sleep, health, mental capacity for charting, Baby Blues, PPA and PPD, and more! ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Have a question you want to hear answered on a future podcast episode? Click Here to submit questions! Looking for support around sexuality, NFP, sexual ethics, or something we talked about in this episode? Click here to schedule a free 15 minute coaching call. Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com The Charting Toward Intimacy Patreon Community is now closed, if you would like to support the podcast, please consider purchasing one of our courses. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 12 Sep 2022 | NFP Through the Seasons: Perimenopause | Ep. 87 | 00:28:42 | |
Welcome to our NFP through the seasons series! We'll go from Adolescence to Perimenopause and everything in between. We made it to Perimenopause. This is the last episode in this series because it's the last season of charting that a woman would naturally have. Mary Finnigan joins us to chat about perimenopause and what you might expect when you head into the season of lessening fertility. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 19 Sep 2022 | We Idolize Sex | Ep. 88 | 00:35:11 | |
What is the degree to which you idolize sex? Kathleen and I chat about what an idol is vs an icon and how we need to shift sex from being an idol to being an icon. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 26 Sep 2022 | Don't Just Accept Cycle Irregularity - Do Something About It! | Ep. 89 | 00:26:28 | |
Christy Murray is back with us to discuss cycle irregularity, what it is, what's normal, and what you should do if you have irregularities. Christy came on the podcast before to share her journey through infertility - listen to episode 68 here. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 03 Oct 2022 | Let's Talk About Tech, Baby | Ep. 90 | 00:41:59 | |
You've got femtech questions, we've got answers. We're running through a whole bunch of tech like Tempdrop, Natural Cycles, Daysy, Apple Watch, Clearblue, Ava, Mira, and Inito to give you some insight into where you can use these things in your fertility awareness journey (and which ones you definitely can't use, at least not yet). Interested in TempDrop? Get 10% off with code CHARTINGTOWARDINTIMACY ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 10 Oct 2022 | What Does the Pelvic Floor Have to Do With My Sex Life? With Brittany Pearson | Ep. 91 | 00:29:39 | |
Brittany Pearson joins us to chat about the pelvic floor and how the health of your pelvic floor affects your life and especially your sex life! Find out more about Brittany here. Looking for more on the pelvic floor? Check out episode 70 with Jen of Tighten Your Tinkler. Looking for relief from pelvic floor issues? Tighten Your Tinkler's signature program is for you! ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 17 Oct 2022 | A Conversation with an NFP Instructor of Over 20 Years | Ep. 92 | 00:31:37 | |
This conversation with Holly Baril is fascinating! We chat about her experience using and teaching the Creighton Model for over 20 years. Sneak peak: She would love to throw the chart out the window because charting is hard work and she's been doing it for what feels like forever, but she won't give it up because of the health benefits and knowledge of her body! Connect with Holly on Instagram ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 24 Oct 2022 | NFP Wasn't the Original Plan | Ep. 93 | 00:36:24 | |
Kathleen and I dive into the theological implications of NFP and the fact that NFP really exists as a solution to a modern problem we have because of Original Sin. Magic Mind is the sponsor of this week's episode. Check them out at magicmind.co/intimacy use code INTIMACY20 at check out to save 20% off of a one time purchase or 40% off total off of a subscription (only valid for the next 10 days)! ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 31 Oct 2022 | NFP in Marriage Prep | Ep. 94 | 00:31:16 | |
The state of NFP in Marriage Prep is....well terrible. Kathleen and I have some thoughts and I have a program that has been working incredibly well that I can't wait to share with you! If you are interested in NFP Basics the NFP Marriage prep module that we mention in this week's episode, email nfpbasics@ellenholloway.com or visit: ellenholloway.com/nfp-basics Magic Mind is the sponsor of this week's episode. Check them out at magicmind.co/intimacy use code INTIMACY20 at check out to save 20% off of a one time purchase or 40% off total off of a subscription (only valid for the next 10 days)! ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 07 Nov 2022 | Charting On Vacation | Ep. 95 | 00:31:32 | |
Traveling soon? We've got tips for charting while you're traveling. Listen in for what to do when you're going to loose a day traveling, be in a different time zone, or maybe you're expecting your fertile window to close the day you are on an airplane all day long. Magic Mind is the sponsor of this week's episode. Check them out at magicmind.co/intimacy use code INTIMACY20 at check out to save 20% off of a one time purchase or 40% off total off of a subscription! ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 14 Nov 2022 | Talking to *not* Your Daughter (or son) about NFP | Ep. 96 | 00:27:47 | |
Ever been in a position to talk to a teen or young adult about NFP or Fertility Awareness and been unsure about how to approach it? Monica and Renzo Ortega are on to share about their experience being in a mentor roll with teens and young adults as youth ministers and how they navigate these sensitive conversation topics. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 18 Nov 2022 | You Are Called...To Integrate Your Body and Soul | Bonus Episode | 00:45:15 | |
Hey there! Welcome to this special bonus episode in partnership with FOCUS. This episode is also posted on the SEEK podcast! If you're in college and you haven't signed up for SEEK yet, now is the time. Click here for more info on SEEK23 Reach out to the Charting Toward Intimacy team on Instagram @chartingtowardintimacy or chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com Charting For Single Women from Pearl and Thistle Charting As a Single Woman podcast episode - Charting Toward Intimacy Podcast Episode General Fertility Awareness and Natural Family Planning Resources Secular resources on Fertility Awareness Taking Charge of your Fertility Facts about Fertility - for doctors by doctors ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 21 Nov 2022 | Marriage is Ordered to Procreation | Ep. 97 | 00:33:31 | |
Ever wondered what it really means that marriage is ordered to procreation? Why do we sometimes get people who think the only reason for marriage is having children? The primary end of marriage is procreation, but what does that mean for us and how do we work that into our discernment of avoiding or achieving pregnancy? ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 28 Nov 2022 | Talking to Others About Birth Control | Ep. 98 | 00:31:14 | |
Rachel Mullet Joins us to share her experience both with using the Birth Control Pill and then later sharing her experience with others and encouraging Natural Family Planning instead. Listen in for great tips on how to talk about this difficult subject with others! ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||
| 05 Dec 2022 | Discernment and Prayer | Ep. 99 | 00:29:31 | |
Having trouble with discerning God's call for your family planning intentions? So are we! Join us to chat about discernment and we'll share with you the biggest secret to discernment. Spoiler alert! It's prayer. ___________________________________ Did we mention a book on this week's episode? Click here for our recommended books! Reach out at instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/ or email us at ellen@vinesinfullbloom.com | |||