Foreplay Replay - Alcohol -- Gas Pedal or Brake?

Foreplay Replay - Alcohol -- Gas Pedal or Brake?

Author: Cloud10 February 16, 2026 Duration: 31:14
"Sometimes popping two gummies on vacation helps us have really great sex!" "I really need that glass of wine to get me in the mood!" "Smelling alcohol on your breath is such a turnoff!" As couples and sex therapists, we've talked to thousands of partners about how alcohol and substances affect their relationships. Sometimes couples report that alcohol is a major block to sexual connection, others share that it can help them get out of their heads and make sex more enjoyable. In your relationship, is alcohol a gas pedal or a brake? Meaning it turns you on and helps with desire, arousal, orgasm or it shuts you down and you withdraw from sex. If seeing your partner drunk is a sexual brake, you may feel rejected by their advances because they wouldn't typically act like that sober. If alcohol is a gas pedal, you may feel your inhibition lower and it's more comfortable to access thoughts about sex and connection to your body. Listen to this episode as George and Laurie discuss the function of alcohol in sex and relationships and what you may need to explore underneath if it is a gas pedal or brake. Our hosts approach this topic with non-judgement and are explicit that alcohol and substance use runs on a wide spectrum and affects people in many ways. We know this may open up myriad reactions from our listeners and we welcome your feedback! As always, thank you for listening and keep it hot, y'all! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a world where conversations about intimacy often get reduced to cliches or awkward silence, Brave Love Great Sex-Couples Therapy Podcast offers a different space. Hosted by certified sex therapist Dr. Laurie Watson and renowned couples therapist George Faller, LMFT, this is a dialogue that goes beyond simple advice. Each episode is built on a foundation of professional expertise and compassionate honesty, tackling the real, sometimes messy, intersections of emotional connection and physical desire. You'll hear frank discussions that demystify therapy, explore relationship dynamics, and address the challenges and joys of maintaining a vibrant, erotic bond within a committed partnership. The conversations are designed to be both fascinating and practical, moving from broader concepts of love and trust to specific discussions about sexual intimacy and technique. This isn't about quick fixes; it's about providing hope and actionable insights for couples who want to deepen their understanding of each other. By listening to this podcast, you gain access to a rare combination of perspectives, where a focus on sexual health and a focus on relational fitness come together. It’s for anyone in a long-term relationship seeking to nurture both the brave love and the great sex that can sustain it for the long haul.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Brave Love Great Sex – Couples Therapy Podcast
Podcast Episodes
Foreplay Replay - What Turns Women On? Female Sexual Cues [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:10
What sexual cues turn women on? Here’s a hint—interest is sexy! 32% of women lack sexual interest, according to a research study by Meston & McCall, “Cues Resulting in Sexual Desire for Women.” The study found that incre…
504: Below the Belt [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:43
In today's episode, Laurie is joined by Urologist and men's health expert Dr. Dan Khera-McRackan of Raleigh, NC. Men of varied ages experience issues with premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction and prostate health.…
Foreplay Replay - Overcoming Critical Body Image Thoughts [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:42
In our world with its focus on physical perfection, we all have aspects of our body which we criticize, and even avoid looking at in the mirror. These critical thoughts can intrude before, during, and after sex, diminish…
503: Tending the Flame [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:21
In today's episode, we are joined by couple therapy expert and EFT trainer Rebecca Jorgensen. We discuss ways to tend the flame in the bedroom; practices couples can utilize for security and safety to increase their plea…
Foreplay Replay - Sex--Hit or Miss? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:42
Sometimes sex is awesome; sometimes not. This episode shows you how to turn up the heat when it's not! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
502: Why We Need Each Other to Feel Safe [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:32
In today's episode we are answering the question 'why we need each other to feel safe?' Join hosts, Laurie and George as they breakdown the definition and importance of co-regulation. A necessary experience beginning in…
501: Asking for Help With Fears [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:40
In today's episode we are digging deep into sexual fears and how to ask for help. This is a quintessential move to shift partners from a negative cycle to a positive one. When we are able to see how we are protecting and…
Foreplay Replay - Should You Keep Sex Secrets? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:03
Laurie and George define secrets as issues, fantasies or alliances that block connection. We certainly have a right to privacy and sometimes our private erotic thoughts makes our world sexier and makes us more available…
500th Episode! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 33:09
Today we're celebrating our 500th episode of Foreplay Sex Therapy! Join our hosts, Laurie and George as they look back on their favorite episodes so far, how their professional journey began and what they have learned fr…