35: Conquering Intimacy Conflict with Steph Flood, LMFT

Why is it so hard for couples to talk about sex and intimacy—even after years together?In this powerful episode of Conversations for Couples, Julie and David Bullitt sit down with licensed therapist and intimacy expert Steph Flood to talk all things sex, shame, vulnerability, and communication in long-term relationships.Steph has worked with over 1,000 couples, helping them reignite their intimacy and navigate issues like mismatched libidos, infidelity, low sex drive, and that all-too-common post-kid disconnect. She brings honesty, humor, and professional insight into one of the most vulnerable topics couples face.💬 What We Cover in This Episode: Why we’re never taught how to talk about sex The shame and silence around intimacy in relationships Why parenting and menopause are intimacy killers—and how to reconnect What really happens with mismatched sex drives The truth about porn, performance anxiety, and unrealistic expectations How to rekindle desire when your bodies—and routines—have changed The “daily affection” tip that helps couples stay close Why honest check-ins and communication may save your marriage Steph’s 3 go-to tips for couples struggling with sex 📌 Steph’s Top 3 Tips: Have regular intimacy check-ins: "How’s this going for you?" goes a long way. Practice daily affection: Hugs, touch, and physical closeness—not just sex—keep your bond strong. Be honest about your needs before they turn into resentments. Vulnerability builds connection. 👩‍💻 More About Steph Flood: Steph is a Nashville-based marriage and family therapist who offers virtual therapy, courses, and coaching for couples across the country.📲 Find her at: 🔗 Website: www.afloodoflove.com 📸 Instagram: @stephfloodoflove💑 Hosted by Julie & David Bullitt Julie is a licensed family therapist. David is a divorce and family lawyer. Married for 38 years, they've worked with couples through the toughest of times—and come out stronger.📍 Chapters: 00:00 Welcome to the Podcast 02:00 Why Is Sex So Hard to Talk About? 06:40 Shame, Religion, and the Messages We Inherit 09:50 Common Points Where Couples Drift 12:20 How to Talk About Intimacy Without Blame 15:15 Post-Kids, Menopause, and Low Libido 20:00 When Porn Becomes a Problem 23:30 Communication Tools: Check-Ins, Affection & Honesty 28:10 Daily Touch & the “Are You Needing More?” Conversation 31:00 Safe Communication for When You Feel Disconnected 34:00 Steph’s Online Course & How to Work With Her 36:00 Final Takeaways🔔 Subscribe to our podcast for honest conversations, helpful advice, and real-life stories about what it takes to make love last.🎧 Listen to Conversations for Couples on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. 🌐 Learn more at www.thebullitts.com