The Role of Porn, Lubricant, & Pleasure in Sex Ed | With Anna Richards & Lauren Short

Welcome back to Sex Tells. In this episode, host Lucy Frank is joined by Anna Richards, founder of the female-focused erotic platform Frolicme, and Lauren Short, founder of the lubricant brand Ples’Jour, for an open and thought-provoking conversation about porn, intimacy, and sexual wellness. Together, they explore the gaps left by traditional sex education, particularly around female pleasure, consent, and the role of sexual wellness products, and how these gaps continue to shape people’s experiences of intimacy.Why is there still so much misinformation and stigma around pleasure? Anna reflects on her decision to create Frolic Me as a response to the male-centric narratives often found in mainstream porn, advocating for ethical, inclusive content that centres authentic female desire and connection. Lauren shares the story behind Pleasure, challenging common misconceptions about lubricant use and reframing it as a tool for comfort, confidence, and enhanced sexual wellbeing rather than something to feel embarrassed about.What does it take to challenge an industry built on taboo? Both Anna and Lauren speak candidly about their journeys as entrepreneurs in the sexual wellness space, from breaking through stigma to encouraging more honest, open conversations about sex. They debunk persistent myths—such as the idea that using lubricant signals dysfunction or that ethical porn lacks excitement—and dive into the “orgasm gap,” unpacking the cultural and societal influences that contribute to unequal sexual satisfaction, along with practical ways to address it.How can we build healthier, more fulfilling intimate lives? The conversation highlights the importance of communication, education, and self-advocacy, encouraging listeners to embrace pleasure as a vital part of overall wellbeing. Anna and Lauren emphasise letting go of shame, fostering honest dialogue with partners, and approaching intimacy with curiosity and confidence.So, as you reflect on this conversation, ask yourself: How can you challenge outdated narratives around pleasure, and what steps can you take to create a more open, confident, and fulfilling relationship with your own sexual wellbeing?Connect & Learn MoreLearn MoreExplore Lucy’s therapy services, retreats, workshops, and resources: https://theyxologist.co.ukStay SocialFollow for updates, insights, and behind-the-scenes perspectives:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theyxologist/ @theyxologist Get in TouchFor session bookings, media enquiries, and collaborations:Email: [email protected] Form: https://theyxologist.co.uk/contact/Work With LucyLucy provides tailored psychosexual and relationship therapy, both online and in person, in Central, East, South West London, and Brighton. She also leads retreats and workshops on intimacy, desire, and navigating life changes like childlessness, infidelity, illness, and shifting relationship dynamics.Find out more and book via the contact page: https://theyxologist.co.uk/contact/