EP481 - Kink Curious: Play Without Shame

EP481 - Kink Curious: Play Without Shame

Author: Dr. Nazanin Moali, Ph.D, Psychology of Sex | Couple Therapy | Sex Education March 10, 2026 Duration: 28:24

Welcome to Episode 481 of the Sexology Podcast! I'm thrilled to have Gigi Engle join me today as she talks about kink, how it's frequently misinterpreted, and how people can explore their desires with open communication, curiosity, and safety.

 

Gigi and I discuss what kink actually entails and why it is much more expansive than the preconceived notions that many people have about it. She describes how the term "kink" serves as a catch-all for a variety of relational and sensory experiences, ranging from more symbolic forms of erotic expression to power dynamics and sensation play. 

 

Gigi Engle is a COSRT-registered, MNCIP, ACS, CSE, CSC, GSRD-accredited, award-winning author, certified sex & relationships psychotherapist, and sex educator. She works clinically as an associate clinician at The Therapy Yard, where she specializes in supporting GSRD (Gender, Sexuality, and Relationship Diverse) clients, including members of the LGBTQIA+ community, kinky folx, and people in polyamorous and open relationships. 

 

Gigi is the author of two books: Kink Curious and All The F*cking Mistakes. Kink Curious is available for pre-order and comes out January 21st.

 

In this episode, you will hear:

 

·      The True Meaning of Kink

·      Distinctions Between Fetish and Kink

·      Reasons Behind Many People's Unrealized Kinkiness

·      The Evolution of Kinks

·      Psychology of Symbolic and Sensory Play

·      Kink Exploration's Emotional Safety

·      The Significance of Safe Words and Consent

·      Comprehending the Concept of an Enthusiastic Maybe

·      Managing Shame Regarding Sexual Desires

·      How Couples Can Respectfully Discuss Kinks

 

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Curiosity about human sexuality is universal, yet finding grounded, evidence-based conversations can be surprisingly difficult. That’s where Sexology comes in. Hosted by clinical psychologist and sex therapist Dr. Nazanin Moali, this weekly series moves beyond sensationalism and stigma to bring you thoughtful dialogues with leading experts, researchers, and therapists. Each episode delves into the nuanced psychology of sex, intimacy, and relationships, translating complex findings into relatable insights. You’ll hear conversations that address the questions many ponder but hesitate to voice, covering everything from desire and communication to the science of pleasure and emotional connection. Dr. Moali’s background in both couple therapy and sex education ensures these discussions are both academically rigorous and deeply practical. Rather than offering quick fixes, this podcast provides a compassionate space to understand the multifaceted nature of our sexual selves. Tuning in feels like gaining access to a candid, confidential forum where nothing is off-limits and everything is examined with respect and intellectual curiosity. For anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of personal or relational dynamics, Sexology offers a trusted, enlightening resource that demystifies the complexities of human sexuality through a scientific and therapeutic lens.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Sexology
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