How to Talk About Sex With Your Partner (Without Making It Weird)

February 19, 2026

#248

Life has been a lot lately.

So today, we’re digging into the archives and bringing back one of the most important episodes we’ve ever recorded: how to talk about sex.

Because communication is the thing that keeps connection alive. And these conversations don’t have to feel awkward, heavy, or like you’re about to start a fight.

When you know how to do it right, talking about sex can actually be fun, flirty, and bonding.

In this episode, we’re breaking down the #1 mistake couples make when they finally try to talk about sex (hint: they wait until something feels bad), and we’ll give you our favorite low-pressure ways to start opening up… even if your partner is resistant, nervous, or shuts down the second you bring it up.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

  • Why most couples wait too long to talk about sex (and how that backfires fast).
  • The “secret sauce” to making sexual communication feel safer and easier.
  • How to stop turning sex talks into high-stakes problem-solving sessions.
  • The sneaky, low-pressure ways to start the conversation (even if your partner’s resistant).
  • Simple scripts to compliment, reminisce, and flirt your way into better connection.
  • The post-game recap (and why it works best when you keep it light).
  • Why talking about sex helps reduce shame, anxiety, and performance pressure.

If talking about sex feels intimidating in your relationship, this episode is for you.

Sometimes all it takes is one small, low-pressure conversation to start changing the whole vibe between you two.

Links & Resources

Ready to make this easier (and way more consistent)?

If you want an easy way to keep conversations like this happening (without having to “figure out what to say” every time), check out The Spark.

Fun, flirty, sex therapist-created relationship ideas you can try together every month. Think: connection boosts, date night inspo, a new sex position, and simple, low-pressure ways to keep intimacy on the radar.

You can wait for connection to magically happen… or you can let us deliver it straight to your inbox each month. It could be the best $9 you ever spend.

Check out The Spark

Mentioned in this episode:

Sex Talks: The Five Conversations That Will Transform Your Love Life

Our New York Times bestselling book breaks down the five conversations that make talking about sex feel easier, more connecting, and way less intimidating.

It’s grounded in real-life stories from their own relationship and gives couples a clear path to communicating about sex without pressure or panic.

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