Beyond Shame: Reclaiming Pleasure and Authentic Relationships

In this episode of Feed the Matriarchy, we sit down with Blakely Hunze-Austin, LPC—a licensed professional counselor specializing in sex therapy, eating disorders, trauma, OCD, addictions, and work with LGBTQIA+, kink, and poly/ENM communities—for a thoughtful conversation about sexuality, shame, pleasure, and authenticity. Together, we explore what it means to build relationships and intimate lives rooted in intentionality rather than obligation, fear, or societal expectations. Blakely shares insights on reducing shame around desire, learning from queer culture’s emphasis on self-awareness and communication, and creating space for people to explore what genuinely feels safe, affirming, and fulfilling. This episode dives into embodiment, identity, intimacy, and the radical act of choosing authenticity over performance in the ways we connect with ourselves and others.Resource links:For Blakely:  https://eroshealingandgrowth.clientsecure.me/For Necklace:  https://www.womanizer.comTo find a registered sex therapist in your area: https://www.aasect.org/