What Makes a Good Sex Toy? A Professional Sex Toy Tester Tells All | Ep. 152 (Part 1)

What Makes a Good Sex Toy? A Professional Sex Toy Tester Tells All | Ep. 152 (Part 1)

Author: Karen Bigman February 10, 2026 Duration: 21:16
Taboo to Truth: Life & Sex After 50
HealthHealth & FitnessCultureEducationFitnessRelationshipsSexualitySocietySociety & Culture

In this episode, I sit down with Venus O'Hara, one of the most trusted voices in pleasure education, to talk about sex toys for midlife bodies. We break down what makes a toy worth your time, how to spot safe materials, and why novelty alone does not equal pleasure. Venus shares how her standards changed after reviewing over a thousand products and what consistently delivers real orgasms in midlife. We also talk about boundaries, nervous system safety, and why confidence matters more than hype. This is a grounded, practical conversation for anyone who wants better sex without embarrassment or guesswork.

In this episode:

0:00 Why I listen to professional sex toy testers

0:36 What this show is really about

1:15 Substack announcement and community invite

2:00 Welcome to Taboo To Truth

2:42 Introducing Venus O’Hara

3:55 What makes a sex toy worth reviewing

5:30 Why Venus avoids realistic toys

6:55 The rabbit vibrator and external use

9:10 Why penetration is not always the goal

10:45 Toys as tools for couples and connection

12:10 Erotic manifestation and fantasy

14:00 Testing toys alone vs with partners

15:20 Vibrators, insecurity, and partner dynamics

16:55 Panty vibes, humor, and playful teasing

18:30 Toys for menopause, dryness, and ED

19:55 Wands, massage, and slowing things down

20:50 Part two teaser and closing remarks

Part 2 drops next Tuesday!

Want a deeper look? Watch the full episode on YouTube for a more visual experience of today’s discussion. This episode is best enjoyed on video—don’t miss out!

Karen Bigman, a Sexual Health Alliance Certified Sex Educator, Life, and Menopause Coach, tackles the often-taboo subject of sexuality with a straightforward and candid approach. We explore the intricacies of sex during perimenopause, post-menopause, and andropause, offering insights and support for all those experiencing these transformative phases.


This podcast is not intended to give medical advice. Karen Bigman is not a medical professional. For any medical questions or issues, please visit your licensed medical provider.


Looking for some fresh perspective on sex in midlife? You can find me here:

Email: karen@taboototruth.com

Website: https://www.taboototruth.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taboototruth

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@taboototruthpodcast



About the Guest:

Raising orgasmic awareness. Author. British expat in Spain. Sex toy tester & designer. Brand Ambassador for Satisfyer. YouTuber. Fetishist. Feminist. Vegan. Yogini. Zen. Creator of The Orgasmic Lifestyle Podcast.

Connect with Venus O’Hara:

Website: https://www.venusohara.org/about-venus-ohara

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/venusohara/

Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F53LZ6BY

Karen Bigman, a Sexual Health Alliance Certified Sex Educator, Life, and Menopause Coach, tackles the often-taboo subject of sexuality with a straightforward and candid approach. We explore the intricacies of sex during perimenopause, post-menopause, and andropause, offering insights and support for all those experiencing these transformative phases.

This podcast is not intended to give medical advice. Karen Bigman is not a medical professional. For any medical questions or issues, please visit your licensed medical provider.

Looking for some fresh perspective on sex in midlife? You can find me here:

Email: karen@taboototruth.com

Website: https://www.taboototruth.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taboototruth

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@taboototruthpodcast

Substack: https://karenbigman.substack.com

Take control of your pleasure with my Pleasure Playbook, filled with tips to help you connect with your body and enhance intimacy. Download it now at www.taboototruth.com/pleasureplaybook.

Take control of your pleasure with my Pleasure Playbook, filled with tips to help you connect with your body and enhance intimacy. Download it now at www.taboototruth.com/pleasureplaybook.

EXCLUSIVE VIP DISCOUNTS, COURSES & FREEBIES

🚨 Save 35% off at svakom.com using code Venus35

🛒 Link: http://svakom.com

🚨 Save 25% off on the Lem using code Taboo25

🛒 Link: Hellonancy.com/discount/TABOO25

🚨 Save 25% on Le Wand using code Taboo25

🛒 Link: https://www.lewandmassager.com

💋 Hotter, Wilder, Wiser | You’ve mastered everything else in life — now master pleasure! https://www.taboototruth.com/hotter-wilder-wiser


In a culture that often whispers about aging and ignores the sexuality of older adults, Taboo to Truth: Life & Sex After 50 speaks in a clear, confident voice. Hosted by certified sex educator and coach Karen Bigman, this podcast transforms hushed conversations into open, honest dialogue. Karen’s straightforward and candid approach dismantles the stigma surrounding midlife intimacy, creating a vital space for education and support. Each episode explores the intricate, real-life experiences of dating, relationships, and physical connection after fifty. You’ll hear practical insights on navigating sex post-divorce, the triumphs of rediscovering desire, and the unique challenges that come with these transformative years. This isn’t abstract theory; it’s grounded conversation about the evolving landscape of pleasure, health, and partnership. By diving deep into topics often left unspoken, the show provides both reassurance and actionable guidance. Whether you’re seeking to understand your own journey or to simply listen and learn, this podcast meets you with expertise and empathy. Karen Bigman ensures every discussion moves from societal silence toward personal truth, making Taboo to Truth an essential listen for anyone redefining what life and intimacy mean in the second half.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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Taboo to Truth: Life & Sex After 50
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