Sexual Pleasure and Disability

In this episode of "Sex Advice for Seniors," I’m thrilled to welcome back a remarkable advocate for the sexual rights of disabled individuals. The last time we spoke, Maria Cyndi had recently launched an Instagram channel and a Substack. Unfortunately, she felt compelled to shut them down after facing harassment and unwanted attention from individuals fetishizing her disability. However, she has now courageously decided to relaunch her platforms, fighting back against prejudice and speaking her truth unapologetically.Maria’s prominence as one of the few women writing about sexual pleasure and disability has inspired her to dedicate more time to her craft. She’s now focusing on her writing, contributing guest posts to prominent blogs, and participating in an upcoming anthology.Join me as we explore the challenges Maria has faced, her unwavering determination to reclaim her body and identity, and her invaluable advice for disabled individuals navigating their sexuality. Maria’s story is a powerful testament to the importance of understanding sexual well-being and disability, and her voice is one we all need to hear.Chapters01:02 Maria Cyndi's Journey into Advocacy01:55 Challenges of Online Advocacy05:14 Writing and Contributing to Anthologies08:34 Transitioning to Full-Time Writing10:21 Navigating Social Media and Community13:47 Reclaiming Pleasure and Overcoming Trauma15:31 The Impact of Education on Sexuality17:43 Reclaiming Identity and Intimacy20:34 The Ongoing Journey of Healing and Communication22:20 Navigating Relationships and Disability24:28 The Importance of Open Communication26:10 Exploring Sexuality and Consent29:18 Finding the Right Tools for Pleasure30:47 Breaking Stereotypes: Disabled People and Sex33:32 Media Representation of Disabled Sexuality36:23 Creating Inclusive Spaces for All39:00 The Need for Diverse Narratives in MediaNow’s here the bit about me:Hi, I’m Suzanne — the proud host of Sex Advice for Seniors and a 365-days-a-year champion for the right of older folks to experience sexual pleasure. No matter your age, size, shape, or the state of your knees, hips, back, you should feel free to embrace your sexuality. If you don’t wanna have sex anymore, that’s cool. But if you do? You absolutely shouldn’t feel ashamed about it.I’m on a mission to smash one of life’s last, stubborn taboos: the idea that older people can’t be sexy or sexual. SCREW THAT.Every week, come rain or shine, I record at least one podcast where I sit down with an expert on sex, dating, or relationships. Let’s just say I’ve met some seriously cool people and learned a lot. (I’m not saying I deserve an honorary degree, but if someone wants to give me one, I’ll graciously accept. Just putting that out there).My podcasts are free for all listeners, but for my discerning readers who enjoy a little extra spice in their lives, I offer paywalled posts. These juicy extras might include sex toy reviews (yes, I test them all myself, so don’t say I don’t go the extra mile), personal stories from my sexploits, or deep dives into more intimate topics.If you’re a paid subscriber, you’ll also receive my 32-page booklet, ‘Sex Toys & Supplements for Thriving in Later Life,’ and gain access to a private chat room where me and my readers swap stories, share tips, and ask questions. All this for what I think is a very reasonable £6.99/month—or, if you’re feeling savvy, you can snag the Senior Discount with an annual subscription at £49.99/year.So, whether you’re here for the laughs, the learning, or just the libido boost, welcome aboard. Hey, but don’t take it from me. Here’s what others say about Sex Advice for Seniors:“Not enough older voices talking about sex. Are we just supposed to dry up and fade away?”“I enjoy staying abreast of new ideas and learning new ways to please my wife.”“Straight non judgmental information that relates to my needs.”“Love the honesty and humour and the vulnerability too.”“I like that you acknowledge so openly and joyously that older people can still want and need sexual satisfaction. And that it can be better and more satisfying than when you were younger! But we also need open, honest, non judgemental advice in order to get the most out of sex in later years.”Sex Advice for Seniors is a proud reader-supported publication. Every single penny goes toward helping me continue to serve up expert advice and wisdom from some of the world’s leading voices on sex and ageing. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.sexadviceforseniors.com/subscribe