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Female by Design

Female by Design

258 episodes — Page 3 of 6

S3 Ep 163Freedom Chat: How You Talk about Your Body (#163)

Vagina. Clitoris. Vulva. Blushing or uncomfortable? Let's talk about the layers of silent shame that impedes you from talking about your body comfortably. You'll hear my personal journey (and recent growth in freedom) as we unpack getting more free, why it matters and how to take steps forward. You were designed to walk in freedom and joy, living integrated mind, body and spirit. Join this chat and gain insight to take one more small step toward more freedom. Resources Mentioned: Growing Desire Challenge Related Episodes: Pleasure Series Pt. 2: Female Anatomy, Orgasm 101 and Guiding Your Husband to Your Pleasure with with Dr. Jennifer Degler Episode 93 Pleasure Series Pt. 3: Your Orgasm Questions with Dr. Jennifer Degler Episode 94 Your Wonderful Female Body Series Start Here Healing and Growing through Sex Therapy with Tish Hedger Episode 103 You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Listen to Heaven in Your Home Family Music: Spotify Apple Music YouTube Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

Jul 31, 202324 min

S3 Ep 162Mentorship with Joyce and Clifford Penner (#162)

Let's lean in and glean wisdom from pioneers in sexual discipleship, Dr. Clifford and Joyce Penner. The Penners offer both theologically sound and practical wisdom on sexuality, pleasure, desire and growing a thriving sex life throughout your marriage. In today's conversation we talk about: Importance of education, understanding and communication Creating a marvelous sex life Intentionality and keeping your sex life alive through the seasons and stages of marriage Healing and growing from shame and feeling "shut down" and disconnected from desire and sexuality Finding the sweet spot in your marriage to build connection and a thriving sex life. About Dr. Cliff and Joyce Penner: The Penners are best known for their pioneer work in encouraging people of all faiths to connect their sexuality with their belief system ─ helping them embrace sex as good and of God. Clifford is a licensed clinical psychologist, received a B.A. from Bethel College in St. Paul, Minnesota, earned an M.A. in theology from Fuller Theological Seminary, and holds a Ph.D. from Fuller's Graduate School of Psychology. Joyce is a registered nurse and clinical nurse specialist, holds a B.S. in nursing from the University of Washington. Her master's degree in psychosomatic nursing and nursing education is from UCLA. They work together as a team to counsel, teach and train. Connect with them at www.passionatecommitment.com or contact them directly at [email protected]. Resources Mentioned: Getting Your Sex Life Off to a Great Start by Dr. Clifford and Joyce Penner Enjoy!: The Gift of Sexual Pleasure for Women by Dr. Clifford and Joyce Penner The Married Guy's Guide to Great Sex by Dr. Clifford and Joyce Penner Restoring the Pleasure by Dr. Clifford and Joyce Penner Sex Facts for the Family by Joyce and Cliff Pennerby Dr. Clifordf and Joyce Penner Healthy Sexuality Parent Guide You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Listen to Heaven in Your Home Family Music: Spotify Apple Music YouTube Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

Jul 24, 202348 min

S3 Ep 161How a Flourishing Wife Can Call Forth Holy Masculinity (#161)

While you may see your man as a tower of strength, do you know how to honor and even call forth his holy masculinity? The culture seems to be against our men, either pitting their masculinity as toxic or, even worse, placing them in competition or comparison with women. Challenge yourself to flourish in God's unique role for you as a wife. Learn to come alongside your husband to honor his strength and even speak life and blessing over his sexuality and holy image bearing masculinity. Your journey in loving your husband allows you to see his strength and his vulnerability. In this episode, you'll hear practical ways to speak life over your husband's sexuality, including a few things that may make you blush. And, you'll learn how to honor your husband when he initiates…even when you are far from feeling ready to connect. You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Listen to Heaven in Your Home Family Music: Spotify Apple Music YouTube Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

Jul 17, 202337 min

S3 Ep 160Toxic War on Masculinity with Nancy Pearcey (#160)

In the beginning God created us male and female, with intention and purpose. Yet, more and more our culture seems to pit women against men, even to the point of not liking men and seeing their role as harmful. In this episode, we discuss the roots of toxic masculinity and the good news we can see in Biblical manhood (and womanhood) with esteemed scholar Nancy Pearcey, author of "The Toxic War on Masculinity: How Christianity Reconciles the Sexes." Our discussion includes: Goodness of God's design for male and female Hostile cultural views of men and masculinity Favorable data and good news about the impact and role of Jesus-following men Need for healing and restoration as we seek to have a culture of honor How to support Biblical manhood, supporting and developing image-bearing manhood About Nancy Pearcy: Nancy Pearcey is a bestselling author and speaker. A former agnostic, she was hailed in The Economist as "America's preeminent evangelical Protestant female intellectual." Her work has appeared in The Washington Post, The Washington Times, First Things, Human Events, American Thinker, Daily Caller, The Federalist, CNSNews, and Fox News. She has appeared on NPR, C-SPAN, and Fox & Friends. She is currently a professor and scholar in residence at Houston Christian University. Pearcey's books have been translated into 19 languages and include Total Truth, The Soul of Science, Saving Leonardo, Finding Truth, Love Thy Body, and The Toxic War on Masculinity. Connect with Nancy at www.nancypearcey.com Related Episodes: How a Flourishing Wife Can Call Forth Holy Masculinity Episode 102 Sexual Confusion in Culture & Our Kids Episode 146 Celebrating Gender: Goodness of Male and Female Episode 43 Resources Mentioned: Love Thy Body by Nancy Pearcey The Toxic War on Masculinity by Nancy Pearcey Heaven in Your Home Family Music You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Listen to Heaven in Your Home Family Music: Spotify Apple Music YouTube Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

Jul 10, 20231h 2m

S3 Ep 159Foreplay: Husband Chat (#159)

Let's continue the conversation on foreplay with a chat to encourage and equip husbands. (Wives will be encouraged, too). Let's continue to reframe foreplay and the unique beauty of masculinity and femininity. In this chat, you'll be encouraged as we discuss: Being a man of strength, with unique strength to serve your bride. Becoming an expert of your wife Removing the duty perspective and helping your wife flourish Foreplay as an opportunity to go at the pace of her pleasure and treasure her from head to toe What it looks like practically to serve with sexual strength before and during foreplay Related Episodes: Your Wonderful Female Body - Erogenous Zones, episode 107 How Taking Hotel Dates Helps My Marriage Connection, episode 126 Francie Recommends: Feel confident in your own skin with Mentionables. A fresh and pretty item of lingerie every now and then is so fun! The Mentionables selection is beautiful and they never use human models for their items, which gives it such an honoring tone as you're shopping. No comparison or feelings of TMI as your browse, and it's run by ladies who love the Lord! How fun is that!?! Use code WINSLOW for 10% savings. You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Listen to Heaven in Your Home Family Music: Spotify Apple Music YouTube Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

Jun 26, 202329 min

S3 Ep 158Foreplay: Reframe & Celebration (#158)

What is foreplay and what purpose does it serve? In this discussion you'll learn about the role of foreplay, but it may surprise you. Instead of seeing foreplay as a way to get ready for the main event, what if it were a time of relaxing into more pleasure and greater intimacy? You were made for deep connection and naked and unashamed intimacy. Let's look at foreplay as a tool for connection through rest, relaxation and celebration of your feminine beauty. Related Episodes: Your Wonderful Female Body Series, start here Great Sex Grows Series, start here How Taking Hotel Dates Helps My Marriage Connection, episode 126 Sex Toys & Vibrators, episode 137 Francie Recommends: Feel confident in your own skin with Mentionables. A fresh and pretty item of lingerie every now and then is so fun! The Mentionables selection is beautiful and they never use human models for their items, which gives it such an honoring tone as you're shopping. No comparison or feelings of TMI as your browse, and it's run by ladies who love the Lord! How fun is that!?! Use code FRANCIE for 10% savings. You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Listen to Heaven in Your Home Family Music: Spotify Apple Music YouTube Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

Jun 19, 202335 min

S3 Ep 157Female Sexuality & Growth with Nancy Houston (#157)

Welcome back for part two of the conversation with a licensed counselor and sex therapist Nancy Houston. Nancy offers wonderful insight and compassion into the profound connections between love, sex, and healing. In this episode we discuss: Permission given - God made you as a female to be sexual and your sexuality is beautifully designed Getting familiar with your desire and your female body Owning and expressing your want Communication and pursuing each other in marriage Foreplay and learning to receive as a woman Mutual pleasure, mutual joy and mutual respect About Nancy Houston: Nancy Houston is an author, speaker, Executive Leadership Coach, Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Sex Therapist. She loves to help people grow into their full potential, empowering them to be truly alive. Nancy has been married to the love of her life for almost 50 years. Together they have four wonderful married sons and six adorable grandchildren. Nancy is the author of Love and Sex and Then God Made A Woman: Unwrapping Female Sexuality. Related Episodes: Your Wonderful Female Body - Erogenous Zones, episode 107 Great Sex Grows…When I Tune Into My Body, episode 121 Francie Recommends: Feel confident in your own skin with Mentionables. A fresh and pretty item of lingerie every now and then is so fun! The Mentionables selection is beautiful and they never use human models for their items, which gives it such an honoring tone as you're shopping. No comparison or feelings of TMI as your browse, and it's run by ladies who love the Lord! How fun is that!?! Use code FRANCIE for 10% savings. You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Listen to Heaven in Your Home Family Music: Spotify Apple Music YouTube Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

Jun 12, 202338 min

S3 Ep 156Finding Healing in Love & Sex with Nancy Houston (#156)

In today's episode, we have rich conversations with a licensed counselor and sex therapist Nancy Houston. Nancy offers wonderful insight and compassion into the profound connections between love, sex, and healing. We discuss: The spiritual mystery and depth to our sexuality Emotional and soul connection in marriage How to keep sex on the "front burner" Power and beauty of the feminine body Identifying what's informed your view of sex and understanding how you may be modeling your sex life accordingly Working through sexual trauma through sharing your story (or receiving the story of another) Normalizing, rather than demonizing, our sexuality Styles of attachment (healthy and unhealthy) About Nancy Houston: Nancy Houston is an author, speaker, Executive Leadership Coach, Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Sex Therapist. She loves to help people grow into their full potential, empowering them to be truly alive. Nancy has been married to the love of her life for almost 50 years. Together they have four wonderful married sons and six adorable grandchildren. Nancy is the author of Love and Sex and Then God Made A Woman: Unwrapping Female Sexuality. Resources Mentioned: A Celebration of Sex: A Guide to Enjoying God's Gift of Sexual Intimacy by Dr. Douglas E. Rosenau, Jeff Durham, et al. Then God Made A Woman: Unwrapping Female Sexuality by Nancy Houston Enjoy!: The Gift of Sexual Pleasure for Women by Joyce and Clifford Penner Related Episodes: Your Wonderful Female Body Series, start here Great Sex Grows Series, start here Francie Recommends: Feel confident in your own skin with Mentionables. A fresh and pretty item of lingerie every now and then is so fun! The Mentionables selection is beautiful and they never use human models for their items, which gives it such an honoring tone as you're shopping. No comparison or feelings of TMI as your browse, and it's run by ladies who love the Lord! How fun is that!?! Use code FRANCIE for 10% savings. You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Listen to Heaven in Your Home Family Music: Spotify Apple Music YouTube Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

Jun 5, 202350 min

S3 Ep 155Sex in Seasons of Suffering

Whatever season you currently find yourself in, this is a conversation not to be missed. The reality is, you will have seasons of abundance as well as refining seasons of trial and suffering. You'll hear my honest perspective on and journey through suffering and God in the midst of it all, including: Intimacy resilience and building intimacy in all seasons. Challenges in life and how they can create tension and disconnection in marriage. Opportunities to lean into your marriage connection, especially in the hard seasons. Learning to not only be strong for one another, but to be weak together and talk about hard things, loss and disappointment. Physical touch and intimacy as a powerful way to process challenge and stress. Restoration and rejuvenation brought through biological releases sex provides. Mentioned Resources: The Savvy Sauce: Practical Chats for Intentional Living Learn more here The Gap and the Gain: The High Achievers' Guide to Happiness, Confidence, and Success Related Episodes: Finding Breakthrough from Anxiety, episode 134 The Science of Sex, episode 2 You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Listen to Heaven in Your Home Family Music: Spotify Apple Music YouTube Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

May 29, 202344 min

S3 Ep 154Finding Your Sexy as a Mom

Finding energy as a wife, while spinning all the plates of motherhood, can be a bit of a challenge. Switching gears from "tired mom" to feeling sexy doesn't exactly just happen. Can you relate? Good news! In this episode we have some real talk about how to be intentional, cultivate the needs of your body and maybe even find some ideas to "get your groove back" in the bedroom. Let's tap into more joy and enjoyment, because God created you with an incredible capacity for pleasure. Related Episodes: Your Wonderful Female Body - Erogenous Zones, episode 107 Great Sex Grows…When I Tune Into My Body, episode 121 Growing Intimacy…Even When You Have Little Kids, episode 127 You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Listen to Heaven in Your Home Family Music: Spotify Apple Music YouTube Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

May 22, 202318 min

S3 Ep 153A Bigger Vision of Sex with Joshua Butler

Sex is meant to point to something bigger, reflecting the goodness of a purposeful Creator. Our God is an intentional designer and His creation, including sex and sexuality, was designed to point to greater things. For centuries the church has disregarded the importance and meaning of the body and sex, yet this conversation helps us see there is a different way to see and celebrate the story of God. Topics discussed include: The union of man and woman point to a greater union with God, sex as a signpost. The beauty of God's story written on our bodies. Moving from a rule based mindset to an image bearing mindset. Duty language vs. beauty language. Higher vision for singleness and marriage. Holy masculinity and image bearing role of men. About Josh Butler: Joshua Ryan Butler serves as lead pastor of Redemption Tempe in Arizona. Josh is the author of Beautiful Union (and a few other books). Josh loves shifting paradigms, to help people who wrestle with tough topics of the Christian faith by confronting popular caricatures and replacing them with the real thing. He lives with his wife Holly and three children—Aiden, James, and Jacob—in Tempe, AZ. Find Josh at www.joshuaryanbutler.com Resources Mentioned: Beautiful Union: How God's Vision for Sex Points Us to the Good, Unlocks the True, and (Sort of) Explains Everything, by Joshua Ryan Butler Related Episodes: Stewarding Sexuality: Fresh & Transformational View, episode 142 Inner Healing, Sri Lankan Honeymoon & Sex for a Year, episode 1 Rethinking Sex: Recovering a Biblical Lens, episode 3 Sex Is a Signpost, episode 13 You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Listen to Heaven in Your Home Family Music: Spotify Apple Music YouTube Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

May 15, 202343 min

S3 Ep 152Uncovering Secrets of Great Sex with Shaunti Feldhahn

Prepare to be encouraged by a mentoring session with Shaunti Feldhahn. We are diving into sex and sexuality with Shaunti, as she shares her insight and clinical understanding and perspective. Some of the topics we covered in this conversation include: Surprises that make all the difference. Why sexuality matters. A vision for intimacy. Affirming insecure places. Desire - types of desire and levels of desire. God's beautiful gift of sexuality for women. About Shaunti Feldhahn: Shaunti received her graduate degree from Harvard University and was an analyst on Wall Street before unexpectedly becoming a social researcher, best-selling author and popular speaker. Today, she applies her analytical skills to investigating eye-opening, life-changing truths about relationships, both at home and in the workplace. Shaunti's books (including several with husband, Jeff) are known for their aha moments and relationship transformations! These groundbreaking research-based books, including For Women Only, The Kindness Challenge, and most recently, Secrets of Sex and Marriage have sold more than 3 million copies in 25 languages and are widely read in homes, counseling centers and corporations worldwide. Find her new book, Secrets of Sex and Marriage: 8 Surprises That Make All the Difference, Shaunti Feldhahn, Dr. Michael Sytsma Related Episodes: High & Low Libido, episode 150 Your Wonderful Female Body - Sexual Desire, episode 109 You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Listen to Heaven in Your Home Family Music: Spotify Apple Music YouTube Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

May 8, 202351 min

S3 Ep 151Listening to Your Body for Physical, Emotional, Spiritual, and Sexual Health

God designed your body with intention, care and purpose. Yet, we often hyper-focus on the mind and the spirit, neglecting the importance of the body. In this episode we will discuss the importance of connecting to the body, because stress in the body can create dis-ease that ripples out to all areas of our life. Topics include: The brain body connection. Dis-ease in the body and the peace of God. Paying attention to and being aware of your body. Problems that can arise when we disregard the body. Hormetic stress and other practices to reset the body. Laying down efficiency for more intimacy with God. Caring for your body to build more desire and marriage connection. Resources Mentioned: Anchored: How to Befriend Your Nervous System Using Polyvagal Theory, Deb Dana Related Episodes: Finding Breakthrough from Anxiety, episode 134 Your Good Body with Alisa Keeton, episode 135 How Taking Hotel Dates Helps My Marriage Connection, episode 126 You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Listen to Heaven in Your Home Family Music: Spotify Apple Music YouTube Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

May 1, 202331 min

S3 Ep 150High & Low Libidos

What do I do if I have a higher drive than my husband? What should I do if my sex drive seems non-existent? Today's episode is a fresh perspective and discussion as we unpack sexual desire and high and low libidos, which happens to be one of the most frequently asked questions. Education and understanding can lead to celebration, therefore let's discuss the sexual response cycle, spontaneous desire vs. responsive desire and factors that contribute to seasons of higher/lower seasons of spontaneous desire. Let's get equipped and be encouraged as we seek to see sex and connection through a fresh lens. Related Episodes: Rethinking Sex: Recovering a Biblical Lens, Episode 3 Pleasure & Orgasm with Bonny Burns, episode 136 Your Wonderful Female Body Series - Episode 104 to Episode 113 Great Sex Grows Series - Episode 119 to Episode 124 You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Listen to Heaven in Your Home Family Music: Spotify Apple Music YouTube Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

Apr 24, 202332 min

S3 Ep 149Betrayal & Sexual Addiction with Bonny Burns

A tender, honest conversation as Bonny shares her vulnerable testimony and healing journey through deep betrayal caused by pornography and sex addiction in her marriage. There is tremendous trauma and hurt in a marriage experiencing a death of trust. Bonny speaks into betrayal from a personal and clinical perspective, providing you with understanding, empathy and thoughtful steps to take toward healing for both partners. If betrayal has touched your life, know you are not alone. There is great hope and healing possible, especially with the help of trained professionals and the power of the Holy Spirit. Connect with Bonny Burns: Bonny Burns works to empower the wife with low sexual interest, little sex drive, and possibly a sexless marriage through science, scripture, and stories. She writes at oysterbed7.com and podcasts at Sex Chat for Christian Wives. You can find her ministry to women who have experienced sexual betrayal at strongwives.com. She earned a Christian Counseling certification (not licensure) in 2015 and in December, 2019, she completed a Bachelor of Science in counseling psychology from Liberty University. She is married to Dave for over 30 years and is a mother to three adult sons. Mentioned in this episode: Sex Chat for Christian Wives podcast Strong Wives Oysterbed7 APSATS Sensate Focus Related Episodes: Pornography & Sexual Shame to Freedom with Joy Skarka, episode 138 Pleasure & Orgasm with Bonny Burns, episode 136 Transformational Keys to Emotional Connection with Dr. Glenn and Phyllis Hill, episode 131 You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Listen to Heaven in Your Home Family Music: Spotify Apple Music YouTube Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

Apr 17, 202349 min

S3 Ep 148Spiritual Intimacy with Jodie Berndt

Getting on the same "spiritual page" with your husband can fall lower and lower on the to-do list, even though both of your hearts are pursuing connection and intimacy. Jodie Berndt is the mentor we all need on this topic. In this episode you'll hear a wise and practical conversation as you think about building spiritual intimacy in a fresh and do-able way. Whether you are currently experiencing a roommate rut season or you long for more faith connection with your spouse, Jodie brings wisdom and insight that helps you see the goodness of God in every season. Connect with Jodie Berndt: Best selling author and speaker, Jodie is known for her praying the scriptures book series as she inspires and encourages us toward Jesus through prayer. She is married to Robbie, mom to four grown children and loving her season of being a grandparent. You can connect with Jodie at www.jodieberndt.com. Find her new book Praying the Scriptures for Your Marriage here. You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Listen to Heaven in Your Home Family Music: Spotify Apple Music YouTube Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

Apr 10, 202336 min

S3 Ep 147Painful Intercourse and Vaginismus

It's not uncommon to experience painful intercourse and it might even be related to a condition that should be addressed. In today's episode we are talking about vaginismus and painful intercourse. You will hear about the mind, body, spirit connection, why we see painful intercourse more prevalently in Christian women and some practical thoughts and resources to help find solutions. God made your body wonderfully. You are not broken and you are certainly not alone. Full disclosure: This episode is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any condition. I am not a medical doctor or therapist, but I do think it's important for you to know about resources so you can be informed, talk to your doctor and get the help you need. Resources Mentioned: Getting Your Sex Life Off to a Great Start, A Guide for Engaged in Newlywed Couples by Clifford and Joyce Penner Hope & Her Completely Overcome Vaginismus: The Practical Approach to Pain-Free Intercourse Related Episodes: Before You Say "I Do" with Bethany Beal, episode 139 Invitation to Discover Your Wonderful Female Body, episode 104 Body Blessing and Shame Healing, episode 44 You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Listen to Heaven in Your Home Family Music: Spotify Apple Music YouTube Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter

Apr 3, 202328 min

S3 Ep 146Episode 146 Sexual Confusion in Culture & Our Kids

God is a good Creator, full of peace, joy and celebration. The enemy is the author of chaos. Times like this can feel overwhelming. We can choose to see chaos and become afraid, living in fear and becoming paralyzed. Or, we can choose to see the power and beauty of God and learn to carry His banner of celebration. Let's lean into the goodness of God and choose to walk in His peace, His joy and His celebration through shared language. That's what Heaven in Your Home Family Music is all about. In today's episode we welcome Kathryn Brunner, my real life friend who is a beautiful singer/songwriter who collaborated to bring Heaven in Your Home Family Music to your home. We will unpack the vision, the purpose and the meaning behind these culture-shifting songs. Listen in, be equipped and encouraged as you take hold of the JOY and CELEBRATION of God and the crown of His creation, YOU! Listen to Heaven in Your Home Family Music: Spotify Apple Music YouTube Related Episodes: Body Talks with Kids Series, Episode 96 - 99 Shifting Culture through Music in your Home, Episode Teaching Your Kids about Sex with Kristen Miele, Episode 141 About Kathryn Brunner: Heaven in Your Home Family Music is a beautiful collaboration with Kathryn Brunner. Kathryn is a seminary trained singer-songwriter and music educator. She lives in the DC Metro area with her husband and two daughters whom she homeschools. Kathryn is fiercely passionate about equipping families to walk faithfully in the truth of God's word. Heaven in Your Home Family Music is an outworking of that passion. With an educator's mindset, she is also driven to help children grow in an understanding of music to equip them to serve their communities and the world. She is the founder of Musik at Home, an online music education studio for children ages 0-10 where she offers vibrant early childhood and piano courses that are available on the web, mobile app, Apple TV and Amazon Fire TV. You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Francie is partnered with MyCounselor.Online as a resource for Biblically based counseling, including sex therapy. You'll receive a 25% discount on your first session. Click here Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

Mar 27, 202349 min

S3 Ep 145Episode 145 Stewarding Sexuality: Pursuing Generational Freedom

Your body is good, with value and purpose. Your gender is intentional and meaningful. Your sexuality is full of meaning and purpose. The story of God is written on your body. As you think about stewarding sexuality, walking in more freedom, the next step is to begin to impart the truth of celebration and joy into your children. We are called to be fruitful, multiply and take dominion. So, as we live out the goodness and freedom of God, becoming more healed, fruitfulness flows into the next generation. Lean in and let's unpack the big ideas and the practical application for you as you continue to teach and disciple your children. Resources Mentioned: Every Body is a Gift: God Made Us to Love, by Monica Ashour Every Body Has Something to Say, by Monica Ashour God Has a Plan for Boys and Girls, by Monica Ashour Before the Sex Talk: A Theology of the Body Approach for Parents and Mentors, by Linda Noble and Linda Stewart Listen to Heaven in Your Home Family Music: Spotify Apple Music YouTube You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Francie is partnered with MyCounselor.Online as a resource for Biblically based counseling, including sex therapy. You'll receive a 25% discount on your first session. Click here Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

Mar 20, 202334 min

S3 Ep 144Episode 144 Stewarding Sexuality: Faithfulness Leading to Fruitfulness

His master said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.' Matthew 25 In the parable of the talents, the ruler gave three different servants talents to manage while he was away. While we see the command was the same, we see three different heart postures, actions and results. Let's dive into Genesis 1 and observe that our sexuality, our body, our gender and sex, pleasure and desire are gifts from God we're called to steward. So often in our Christian culture we're afraid of sexuality, our bodies and pleasure. We just don't talk about it. We silence it, we bury it and we put it away and talk about other things. But God wants us to grow this gift, not bury it. But how do we grow it and how can we be like the first two servants who are faithful? In today's episode we'll continue the conversation of stewarding sexuality and explore what it means to invest in these gifts and grow like the first two faithful servants. This episode is full of practical application you can apply today. Resources Mentioned: The Vagina Bible by Dr. Jen Gunter The Gift of Sexual Pleasure for Women by Joyce and Clifford Penner Rethinking Sexuality: God's Design and Why It Matters by Dr. Juli Slatery You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Francie is partnered with MyCounselor.Online as a resource for Biblically based counseling, including sex therapy. You'll receive a 25% discount on your first session. Click here Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

Mar 13, 202336 min

S3 Ep 146Episode 143 Stewarding Sexuality: Healing From Lies and Wrong Thinking

His master said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.' Matthew 25 How have we as the church buried the gift of our body, our gender and our sexuality? As we continue our discussion of the parable of the talents in Matthew 25, we observe the servant who buried the talent, hiding it in the ground, did so out of fear. This third servant believed a lie about the Master, therefore he buried what was given to him. In this episode, we will look at Genesis 1 and parallels to Jesus's parable in Matthew. Let's uproot lies and lean into the good garden gifts. What would it look like to walk in freedom, seeing the goodness of our image bearing beauty and the unity that leads to fruitfulness in married intimacy? Let's learn a fresh viewpoint on stewardship and experience the joy of our Master You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Francie is partnered with MyCounselor.Online as a resource for Biblically based counseling, including sex therapy. You'll receive a 25% discount on your first session. Click here Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

Mar 6, 202344 min

S3 Ep 142Stewarding Sexuality: Fresh & Transformational View

His master said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.' Matthew 25 When you think about the parable of the talents your mind instantly gravitates toward stewarding your finances, your gifts, or even your health. But, have you ever thought about the faithfulness that might flow from stewarding your sexuality? We get to steward the gift of our sexuality, with purpose and intention over the course of our life. And, faithfulness brings great benefits,including the unity that leads to fruitfulness within the context of marriage. Sex is not a duty, not a chore, not something to check off your list. It is something to enjoy, to pursue, to delight and to receive great pleasure. Let's learn a fresh viewpoint on stewardship and experience the joy of our Master. Related Episodes: Great Sex Grows: Introduction, Episode 119 Great Sex Grows…When I Shift My Mindset, Episode 120 Great Sex Grows…When I Tune Into My Body, Episode 121 Great Sex Grows…When I See Sex as Fun, Episode 122 The Ripple Effect of Sex, Episode 4 You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Francie is partnered with MyCounselor.Online as a resource for Biblically based counseling, including sex therapy. You'll receive a 25% discount on your first session. Click here Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

Feb 27, 202336 min

S3 Ep 141Teaching Your Kids about Sex with Kristen Miele

We look to our Creator and see that sex is part of His creation, made with meaning, purpose and beauty. As you personally reclaim what God created and called good, the next step is to be able to have conversations with your kids. There's never been a more vital time for intentionality as we teach, lead and invest in our children's hearts and worldview. In today's conversation, my guest Kristen Miele will break down some of the hard questions that can cause stress for caring parents. Gain the confidence to clearly articulate answers and guide your children to understand their bodies and sexuality as it points back to our good God. Rather than shame and silence, we can replace fear with curiosity and be empowered to have honest, consistent conversations that honor God and His gift of sexuality. About Sex Ed Reclaimed: Sex Ed Reclaimed existes to break the cycle of silence in the Christian world on the topic of sex with Sex Ed Reclaimed, LLC as a premier choice for adults seeking to honestly engage the next generation. Sex Ed Reclaimed specializes in God honoring and accessible sex ed for children 3 to18 years old. Find resources here. 10% off your purchase of a Sex Ex Reclaimed resource, use the code FRANCIEWINSLOW About Kristen Miele: Kristen Miele, founder of Sex Ed Reclaimed, has been educating youth on the topic of sex for the last 12 years. She's taught in hundreds of diverse settings including 2 different countries. Kristen has experience teaching ages 3 and up on content related to sex and sexuality. The vision for Sex Ed Reclaimed came to her in November 2021 and it became an LLC in 2022. Kristen has one daughter, Emma Joy, who is 4 years old. She's been married to Anthony since 2012. They live in Columbus, Ohio with their daughter and a very fat cat. Related Episodes: Shifting Culture through Music in Your Home, Episode 112 Body Talks with Kids: Clarity, Confidence and the Critical Need to Shift the Conversation, Episode 96 Body Talks with Kids: Celebrating the Body, Celebrating God, Episode 99 You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Francie is partnered with MyCounselor.Online as a resource for Biblically based counseling, including sex therapy. You'll receive a 25% discount on your first session. Click here Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

Feb 20, 202351 min

S3 Ep 140Sexual Celebration with Alexa PenaVega

Way better than anything Hollywood could ever portray, today's guest Alexa PenaVega shares her vulnerable testimony of finding more in her marriage. How do you go from a wife who really doesn't feel very excited about physical intimacy to finding celebration and joy? In this episode, Alexa and Francie chat about the fruitfulness that has flowed from pursuing oneness, their callings as mothers to disciple their children and be the best source for all things, including sex. Note: This episode endured technology challenges and you may note uneven audio levels. Thank you for your patience with the audio, but the contents of the conversation are filled with beautiful truth, testimony and thoughtful ideas. About Alexa PenaVega: You may know Alexa PenaVega as an actress from hit shows like Spy Kids. But, today you can hear more about her desire to honor her husband, Carlos PenaVega, and pursue a mutually satisfying sexual relationship. Their book, What if Love is the Point is a must-read, overflowing with both laughter and honest reflections, the PenaVegas' incredible story—from the red carpet, Spy Kids movies, and Big Time Rush to Dancing with the Stars to marriage and now parenthood will encourage you. You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Francie is partnered with MyCounselor.Online as a resource for Biblically based counseling, including sex therapy. You'll receive a 25% discount on your first session. Click here Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

Feb 13, 202340 min

S3 Ep 139Before You Say "I Do" with Bethany Beal

All the things you wished you knew before you said I do. Whether you're engaged, newlywed or find yourself in a mentoring relationship, this conversation will give you a fresh perspective on preparing for sex before you say, "I do." Join this vulnerable chat as a welcome Bethany Beal, from the Girl Defined ministry and podcast. How should you prepare for your wedding night? What advice and resources are helpful (and how to know if it's not)? What kinds of expectations should you set for the wedding night? And, most importantly, this is an invitation to take a breath of fresh air and view physical intimacy as a journey that happens over the course of your marriage, not something you arrive at on your wedding night. Tune in and get real talk about fears, insecurities, hygiene and even lubricants. Friend, this is a true girlfriend chat that I pray will bless you. Resources Mentioned: Sex, Purity, and the Longings of a Girl's Heart: Discovering the Beauty and Freedom of God-Defined Sexuality, by Bethany Beal and Kristen Clark More about Bethany Beal: Bethany Baird is a Texas born and raised girl, wife, mother of two and is the cofounder of Girl Defined Ministries. You can learn more at girldefined.com or at the Girl Defined Show. Related Episodes: Inner Healing, Sri Lankan Honeymoon & Sex for a Year, Episode 1 Rethinking Sex: Recovering a Biblical Lens, Episode 3 Your Wonderful Female Body Series - Episode 104 to Episode 113 Great Sex Grows Series - Episode 119 to Episode 124 You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Francie is partnered with MyCounselor.Online as a resource for Biblically based counseling, including sex therapy. You'll receive a 25% discount on your first session. Click here Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

Feb 6, 202348 min

S3 Ep 138Pornography & Sexual Shame to Freedom with Joy Skarka

"God takes our brokenness and turns it into our passion." Joy Skarka With vulnerability and authenticity, Joy shares her story which includes sexual trauma that led to a struggle with pornography. As a girl struggling with porn, she felt isolation and carried tremendous shame. Yet, there is help and healing. And, we are never alone in our struggle. This episode is a rich discussion across many topics including sexuality, discipleship, singleness and pornography, with encouraging theology and an unpacking of our need to be known, loved, and to give and receive love. We all experience some sort of sexual brokeness and are far from the naked and unashamed innocence God created in the garden. Let's walk in more freedom, through vulnerability, and know that God cares about your sexuality. Mentioned in this episode: The Soul of Shame, Curt Thompson Authentic Intimacy The Birds and the Bees Good Pictures, Bad Pictures Related Episodes: Body Talks with Kids. Clarity, Confidence and the Critical Need to Shift the Conversation, Episode 96 Body Talks with Kids. Connecting to the Meaning of YOUR Body, Episode 97 Body Talks with Kids. Big Picture Vision, Small Phrases to Create Impact, Episode 98 Body Talks with Kids. Celebrating the Body, Celebrating God, Episode 99 More about Joy Skarka: Joy Skarka is passionate about creating spaces to free women from sexual shame. She serves as Director of Discipleship for Authentic Intimacy, where she leads online small groups for women with unwanted sexual behavior. She coaches and teaches Christian leaders how to help women find freedom from sexual shame and pornography. I have a published chapter in Sanctified Sexuality: Valuing Sex in an Oversexed World. She is a graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary with a MA in Christian Education and jumped right into her doctorate. In 2021, she graduated with her Doctorate degree in Educational Ministry from DTS, focusing on helping women find freedom from sexual shame. You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Francie is partnered with MyCounselor.Online as a resource for Biblically based counseling, including sex therapy. You'll receive a 25% discount on your first session. Click here Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

Jan 30, 20231h 1m

S3 Ep 137Sex Toys & Vibrators

What's okay for Christian marriage in the bedroom? Maybe that's the wrong question. Married sex can be a playground, filled with creativity and adventure. In this episode, we'll reframe the question and perhaps help you process and give yourself permission for a little bit of adventure and freedom in your marriage bed. God created you in a wonderful way and designed married intimacy as celebration. The bodies of a husband and wife are designed to fit together perfectly and there isn't a mandate saying you need to add anything. Sex toys are simply tools that you can introduce to your married intimacy "menu." Consider these thoughts on sex toys as you process what is good for your marriage. Related Episodes: Re-framing Novelty- How Monogamy Doesn't Equal Monotony, Episode 85 Becoming Sexually Adventurous - Pt. 2 with Dr. Glenn and Phyllis Hill, Episode 132 Invitation to Discover Your Wonderful Female Body, Episode 104 Your Wonderful Female Body - Clitoris, Episode 105 Your Wonderful Female Body - G-spot, Episode 106 Your Wonderful Female Body - Erogenous Zones, Episode 107 Your Wonderful Female Body - 4 Stages of Sexual Response, Episode 108 Your Wonderful Female Body - Sexual Desire, Episode 109 Your Wonderful Female Body - Sexual Arousal, Episode 110 Your Wonderful Female Body - Orgasm Pt. 1, Episode 111 Your Wonderful Female Body - Orgasm Pt. 2, Episode 113 Resources mentioned: Merry Marriage Gift Guide We Vibe Married Dance - use code MerryMarriage for savings Unlock Your Orgasm: Through a Christian Lens, Bonny Burns You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

Jan 23, 202328 min

S3 Ep 136Pleasure & Orgasm with Bonny Burns

Are you tuned into your female body? Often, even bringing up the topic of the clitoris or vagina can cause Christian women to shut down. As Bonny shares, when you have education about something, it becomes less scary. And, yet, most women don't have much understanding of their genitalia. Bonny breaks down the science and the scriptures to give you permission to know your body and understand how your amazing female body works. In this chat we talk about anatomy, desire, low drives/high drives, growth mindset, loving your female body, arousal, orgasm, communication and shifting gears toward more mutual satisfaction in the bedroom and so much more. Bonny is the mentor we all want on these topics. More about Bonny Burns: Bonny Burns works to empower the wife with low sexual interest, little sex drive, and possibly a sexless marriage through science, scripture, and stories. She writes at oysterbed7.com and podcasts at Sex Chat for Christian Wives. You can find her ministry to women who have experienced sexual betrayal at strongwives.com. She earned a Christian Counseling certification (not licensure) in 2015 and in December, 2019, she completed a Bachelor of Science in counseling psychology from Liberty University. She is married to Dave for over 30 years and is a mother to three adult sons. Mentioned in this episode: Sex Chat for Christian Wives podcast Unlock Your Orgasm: Through a Christian Lens, Bonny Burns Strong Wives You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

Jan 16, 202343 min

S3 Ep 135Your Good Body with Alisa Keeton

We are having some real talk about the body. And, you'll hear from a dear friend and mentor, Alisa Keeton, as we talk about the wisdom of knowing yourself and acknowledging your body. Jesus came in a body, to love and serve through a physical body. There is a purpose of both the body and the spirit, yet we tend to overemphasize one or the other, neglecting the importance of how God designed us. What would it look like to get free, become more kind toward your body and get in tune with the meaning and purpose of your body? Listen in and be equipped and encouraged as you find freedom and take steps toward honoring your body, even if you have been walking in shame, disdain or trauma for years. Reclaim what is good and beautiful, sweet friend. About Alisa Keeton Author, speaker, and freedom bringer. Alisa's life's journey is to make healthy disciples who make healthy disciples. She believes in the power of the body – the Body Of Christ – where many unique parts come together to make up one complete whole. She is a small-framed woman with a God-sized dream. Learn more about Alisa at alisakeeton.com and her ministry at revelationwellness.org. Mentioned in this episode: Our Bodies Tell God's Story: Discovering the Divine Plan for Love, Sex and Gender by Christopher West Revelation Wellness You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Francie is partnered with MyCounselor.Online as a resource for Biblically based counseling, including sex therapy. You'll receive a 25% discount on your first session. Click here Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

Jan 9, 202359 min

S3 Ep 134Finding Breakthrough from Anxiety

The body keeps the score. God designed your body with great intention and care. We need body awareness, knowing that God created us mind, spirit and body. Yet, accumulated stress and a lack of ability to name what is happening can cause the body to shut down. In this episode, hear my personal journey with anxiety, how my body started crying out, and how I came to discern anxiety and learn tools to find true breakthroughs. Tune in as I share resources that have been tremendous in providing awareness and healing in my own life (and in my home). Let's learn to honor the story of the body. Mentioned in this episode: Try Softer, Aundi Kolber Anchored: How to Befriend Your Nervous System Using Polyvagal Theory, Deb Dana Centering Prayer App Revelation Wellness Related Episode: Sex as a Stress Reliever, Episode 89 Making Space for Margin and Rest, Episode 101 You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Francie is partnered with MyCounselor.Online as a resource for Biblically based counseling, including sex therapy. You'll receive a 25% discount on your first session. Click here Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

Jan 2, 202345 min

S3 Ep 133Blessing Your Body as a Christ Carrier- Replay

Thanks for joining Francie on this episode of Heaven in Your Home. We hope you'll be inspired by this episode, and feel led to share it with someone you know would be ministered by Francie's message. In today's episode, Francie discusses theology of the body as it pertains to Christmas. King of Kings by Hillsong Hebrews 4:14-15 I Corinthians 6:19-20 Romans 5 Matthew 1 I Corinthians 12:12 Connect with Francie: Website Instagram Facebook group Please share Heaven In Your Home with your friends!

Dec 26, 202226 min

S3 Ep 132Becoming Sexually Adventurous - Pt. 2 with Dr. Glenn and Phyllis Hill

Sex can be a great gift, full of pleasure and fun. But, it can also be a source of frustration, discouragement and even great wounding inside your marriage. Dr. Glenn and Phyllis Hill are back this week talking more about their own experience and encouraging you to find healing and freedom in your sexuality. Sex is designed as a party for the woman…yet, we have been taught that sex is really something for the man and even a duty for a wife in marriage. Well, Phyllis is like the big sister you always wanted and she is sharing tips and ideas to embrace more adventure and more freedom as you celebrate what God called GOOD. Listen in and spur your thinking as you figure out what your unique "sexy" is in each and every season. Learn more about Dr. Glenn and Phyllis Hill: Phyllis & Glenn met at a summer camp in the Carolina mountains at age 15 and 16 in 1978, then married four years later. "We were ill-prepared for marriage and our first five years were horrific, with continuous disconnection and pain." They have experienced healing and transformation in their marriage and bring valuable tools to couples to enrich marriages through connection. Dive In With This Free Resource: Break the cycle of frustration in your relationship. Stop feeling lonely in your marriage and learn how to connect the way you were created to. Click Here. Get Marriage Help Today: End the cycle of miscommunication and conflict in your marriage.Get marriage help today. The Foundations Masterclass gives you the tools to communicate better starting now. No need to wait on an appointment to get help. Use HEAVEN20 and receive a 20% discount on this foundational course. Click Here. Get the Merry Marriage Gift Guide right here: Merry Marriage Related Episodes: Invitation to Discover Your Wonderful Female Body, Episode 104 Your Wonderful Female Body - Clitoris, Episode 105 Your Wonderful Female Body - G-spot, Episode 106 Your Wonderful Female Body - Erogenous Zones, Episode 107 Your Wonderful Female Body - 4 Stages of Sexual Response, Episode 108 Your Wonderful Female Body - Sexual Desire, Episode 109 Your Wonderful Female Body - Sexual Arousal, Episode 110 Your Wonderful Female Body - Orgasm Pt. 1, Episode 111 Your Wonderful Female Body - Orgasm Pt. 2, Episode 113 You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Francie is partnered with MyCounselor.Online as a resource for Biblically based counseling, including sex therapy. You'll receive a 25% discount on your first session. Click here Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

Dec 19, 202224 min

S3 Ep 131Transformational Keys to Emotional Connection - Pt. 1 with Dr. Glenn and Phyllis Hill

Sex without emotional connection is really just sexual activity. Today's guests, Dr. Glenn and Phyllis Hill share keys to a healing journey toward true emotional connection. From the wounding that started on their honeymoon, they experienced years of disconnection. With years of training and application, they are now experiencing abundance. And, they have developed simple tools to help marriages experience "naked and unashamed" intimacy, just as God intended as we see in Genesis. Through Connection Codes, they offer a PROVEN, 4-minute tool that will give you the language to conquer conflict in marriage, find safety in intimacy and create a marriage and life you love Don't miss this encouraging episode. Learn more about Dr. Glenn and Phyllis Hill: Phyllis & Glenn met at a summer camp in the Carolina mountains at age 15 and 16 in 1978, then married four years later. "We were ill-prepared for marriage and our first five years were horrific, with continuous disconnection and pain." They have experienced healing and transformation in their marriage and bring valuable tools to couples to enrich marriages through connection. Dive In With This Free Resource: Break the cycle of frustration in your relationship. Stop feeling lonely in your marriage and learn how to connect the way you were created to. Click Here. Get Marriage Help Today: End the cycle of miscommunication and conflict in your marriage.Get marriage help today. The Foundations Masterclass gives you the tools to communicate better starting now. No need to wait on an appointment to get help. Use HEAVEN20 and receive a 20% discount on this foundational course. Click Here. Get the Merry Marriage Gift Guide right here: Merry Marriage You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Francie is partnered with MyCounselor.Online as a resource for Biblically based counseling, including sex therapy. You'll receive a 25% discount on your first session. Click Here. Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

Dec 12, 202235 min

S3 Ep 130Your Intimate Gift Guide

The Merry Marriage Gift Guide is BACK with some fresh, exciting, creative ways to give your spouse (and your marriage) a present. Your marriage is WORTH the investment! What a treat to even just sit down together and talk through these curated ideas for your married intimacy. You'll find the Merry Marriage Gift Guide includes ways to invest and grow, as well as ideas for sensory gifts and tools, including my absolute favorite tool to enhance pleasure. You may even hear me giggle a bit as I share some of these spicy ideas and the ways God has grown me in adding a few "extras" to our marriage bed. You'll enjoy some special savings, too. Tune in and enjoy! Get the Merry Marriage Gift Guide right here: Merry Marriage Related Episodes: Great Sex Grows…When I See Sex as Fun, Episode 122 Your Wonderful Female Body - Erogenous Zones, Episode 107 Pleasure Series Part 1: Reclaiming Your Orgasmic Potential, Episode 92 Pleasure Series Part 2: Reclaiming Your Orgasmic Potential, Episode 93 You're Invited: Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Francie is partnered with MyCounselor.Online as a resource for Biblically based counseling, including sex therapy. You'll receive a 25% discount on your first session. Click here Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

Dec 5, 202220 min

S3 Ep 129Sex & Your Period

Can you have sex on your period? Let's reframe this question and flip the switch on pursuing intimacy each and every day. God is a God of intimacy and He made sex to be naked and unashamed living. There are many ways to be intimate that don't involve intercourse, although there is not a mandate for or against intercourse during your menstrual cycle. Tune into this episode as we unpack a frequently asked question and talk about the menstrual cycle on a deeper level. You won't want to miss this unique perspective to celebrate how God has made us as women. Keep learning with Francie! Join the Discipleship Circle group mentorship. This is a SWEET community of women, connected with the purpose of seeking God's heart for their reclaiming a redeemed view of sex and sexuality. Inside the circle, we will explore and discover the good news about God's heart for sex. Learn more here: Discipleship Circle Francie is partnered with MyCounselor.Online as a resource for Biblically based counseling, including sex therapy. You'll receive a 25% discount on your first session. Click here Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

Nov 28, 202237 min

S3 Ep 128Gratitude & Thanksgiving

Enjoy a special episode of praise and worship as we fix our gaze on Jesus through Psalm 34. Enter into the holiday season with the aim to shift the atmosphere of your home, as you serve God with your whole mind, soul and body. Knowing that your body is a gift that allows you to uniquely glorify God, you can walk each day with gratitude and thanksgiving. Let's bless God at all times with a "whole body" worship. Francie is partnered with MyCounselor.Online as a resource for Biblically based counseling, including sex therapy. You'll receive a 25% discount on your first session. Click here Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

Nov 21, 202222 min

S3 Ep 127Growing Intimacy…Even When You Have Little Kids

What does it like to keep building a strong foundation RIGHT NOW, even in the little years? As you transition from newly married to being new parents, there are real challenges in staying connected and intimate. It's really easy to slip into the "roommate rut" as you navigate the never-ending needs of being parents. But, you can stay connected, really being intentional to build oneness and intimacy. It takes priority and intentionality, but you can establish simple rhythms that allow you to maintain intimate connection. You'll hear how we practically established rhythms of connection as our family started to grow. Be encouraged and be equipped! Francie is partnered with MyCounselor.Online as a resource for Biblically based counseling, including sex therapy. You'll receive a 25% discount on your first session. Click here Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

Nov 14, 202234 min

S3 Ep 126How Taking Hotel Dates Helps My Marriage Connection

Drifting in marriage can happen quickly. Busy lives, full schedules and a household full of children are always vying for our attention. It takes intentional connection to avoid the "roommate rut". Have you heard of a hotel date? Instead of dinner and a movie, you spend several hours alone at a hotel. What an incredible way to find connection. In this episode you will learn all about hotel dates as an idea to spur your marriage connection. You will hear candid chat about the practicals and logistics, as well as some ways this practice can strengthen your marriage connection. Francie is partnered with MyCounselor.Online as a resource for Biblically based counseling, including sex therapy. You'll receive a 25% discount on your first session. Click here Connect with Francie: Receive Francie's weekly newsletter Website Instagram

Nov 7, 202238 min

S3 Ep 125Building Strong Marriages that Weather Life's Storms with Gary Thomas

How do we navigate hard things that come our way and not get washed out by the storms of life? And, how can we keep our marriage anchored in the truth, in intimacy with God and each other? In this episode you will hear nuggets of wisdom and insight to encourage you in your marriage, even when the trials of life threaten to rip you apart. Every marriage will face hard times, yet with a Kingdom perspective, seasons of setbacks and disappointments are shifted. Be encouraged through the stories of marriages that not only weathered the storm, but became an opportunity to glorify God. And, be reminded of the beauty of a marriage that is always healing and leaning in toward intimacy and growth. About Gary Thomas Gary Thomas's writing and speaking draw people closer to Christ and closer to others. He is the author of twenty books that together have sold more than two million copies and have been translated into more than a dozen languages. These books include Sacred Marriage, Cherish, Married Sex, and the Gold Medallion-award winning Authentic Faith. Resources Mentioned: Making Your Marriage a Fortress: Strengthening Your Marriage to Withstand Life's Storms, Gary Thomas Francie is partnered with MyCounselor.Online as a resource for Biblically based counseling, including sex therapy. You'll receive a 25% discount on your first session. Click here Connect with Francie: Website Instagram

Oct 31, 202251 min

S3 Ep 124Great Sex Grows…When I See My Superpowers as a Wife

Superpowers as a wife. Sounds nice, right? Well, it's true. Tune in and hear the ways God has equipped and empowered you for good works. When you see yourself in a Biblical light, fully equipped with super powers including the truth of being an image bearer and the gift of the Holy Spirit, you begin to see a shift in your perspective. This conversation builds upon those truths to give you some fresh ways of thinking about your gifts and super powers as a wife. Be encouraged, friend. We are dropping the "shoulds" and embracing some incredible ideas to help power a growing sex life. Grab a complementary guide based on this podcast series today: Great Sex Grows Francie is partnered with MyCounselor.Online as a resource for Biblically based counseling, including sex therapy. You'll receive a 25% discount on your first session. Click here Connect with Francie: Website Instagram

Oct 24, 202216 min

S3 Ep 123Great Sex Grows…As I Communicate Honestly and Honoringly

Does great sex just happen? Well, no, it doesn't. Let's continue the conversation about intentional ways to lean in and and grow truly great intimacy, which includes communication. Talking about sex may not come very naturally. And, it really does take some practice as you become vulnerable and learn to express your needs. In this episode you'll hear more about my own journey to find tools to be able to talk about sex. And, you'll hear encouragment to talk about sex together. When you use your words to speak life over your husband and your marriage, it is an incredibly powerful gift to fuel deeper vulnerability. Great sex grows…when you lean in toward honest and hornoring communication. Grab a complementary guide based on this podcast series today: Great Sex Grows Francie is partnered with MyCounselor.Online as a resource for Biblically based counseling, including sex therapy. You'll receive a 25% discount on your first session. Click here Resources Mentioned: His Needs, Her Needs Caveat - this book does discuss sex as a man's physical need. I consistently share that Biblical sex is not about a need or a duty. Always ask the Lord to guide you as you consume any resources. Connect with Francie: Website Instagram

Oct 17, 202237 min

S3 Ep 122Great Sex Grows…When I See Sex as Fun

A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. Proverbs 17:22 Let's continue the conversation about great sex growing, because, spoiler alert, it doens't just happen. We are talking about dialing up the JOY in your marriage and…in your bedroom. This episode can be a resource to you over time. It is full of ideas and tips to bring more fun and lighthearted play into your marriage. When you see your spouse as your playmate, the hard things of life might just soften a little bit. So, lean in and hear about bringing the JOY and FUN to your growing sex life. Grab a complementary guide based on this podcast series today: Great Sex Grows Resources Mentions: Christian Friendly Sex Positions Francie is partnered with MyCounselor.Online as a resource for Biblically based counseling, including sex therapy. You'll receive a 25% discount on your first session. Click here Connect with Francie: Website Instagram

Oct 10, 202231 min

S3 Ep 121Great Sex Grows…When I Tune Into My Body

Let's continue the conversation about growing in your married intimacy by talking about the body. It seems obvious that we acknowledge that body is part of sex, but great intimacy happens when you tune into your body and see it as a good gift. It's really easy to become disconnected from the body, going about your day and serving others without much regard for your physical needs and sensations. In this episode, you will hear practical ideas for seeing your body as good. You'll hear encouragement for tuning into the ways you can care for yourself, understanding your body and how it works and see how you can walk in more confidence. Enjoying the gift of intimacy begins with bringing your whole self to the moment - mind, body and spirit. We are all in process, all on our own journey. Let's keep leaning in toward growth, healing and truly great intimacy. Grab a complementary guide based on this podcast series today: Great Sex Grows Francie is partnered with MyCounselor.Online as a resource for Biblically based counseling, including sex therapy. You'll receive a 25% discount on your first session. Click here Connect with Francie: Website Instagram

Oct 3, 202231 min

S3 Ep 120Great Sex Grows…When I Shift My Mindset

Your beliefs about your body, your sexuality and your marriage bed are critical. Do you have a growth mindset or a fixed mindset? The Word encourages us to be growth-oriented. In Romans we see, "do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - His good, pleasing and perfect will." Let's apply this to a growing, flourishing sex life. Great sex doesn't just happen. Great sex requires intentionality…and this episode will unpack the benefits of having a mindset to set you up for success. Grab a complementary guide based on this podcast series today: Great Sex Grows Francie is partnered with MyCounselor.Online as a resource for Biblically based counseling, including sex therapy. You'll receive a 25% discount on your first session. Click here Connect with Francie: Website Instagram Grab the free guide, Five Truths about Sex

Sep 26, 202222 min

S3 Ep 119Great Sex Grows - Introduction

Does great sex just happen? While the world throws the phrase, "great sex," around casually, in this new series we are going to really unpack the journey toward truly great sex. Yes, it's a journey meant for the long haul of your marriage. Great sex can truly grow over time with intentionally. In Great Sex Grows, you will be equipped and encouaged to think about intentional connection in each and every stage. Yes, we will keep our eyes on the big picture, but we will unpack practical ways to grow a great sex life. A growing sex life requires intentionality…and, this series will help you think differently and become more intentional. Grab a complementary guide based on this podcast series today: Great Sex Grows Resources Mentioned: What if Love is the Point?: Living for Jesus in a Self-Consumed World, Carlos PenaVega and Alexa PenaVega Francie is partnered with MyCounselor.Online as a resource for Biblically based counseling, including sex therapy. You'll receive a 25% discount on your first session. Click here Connect with Francie: Website Instagram Grab the free guide, Five Truths about Sex

Sep 19, 202224 min

S3 Ep 118How Often Should I Be Having Sex?

This is a loaded question. Stop "should-ing" on yourself, especially when it comes to your marriage. "Should" is a word that connotes a duty or a chore…who wants that? Let's reframe the question moving forward. Rather, let's focus on the benefits of an active and growing sex life. While we can focus on the many health benefits, what if we flip the question and understand what's behind your questions about "how often." In this episode you'll be encouraged to reframe the way you think about frequency or differing sex drives. Listen in and hear a more helpful approach to choosing intimacy and connection. Resources Mentioned: The 10 Health Benefits of Regular Sex. Here Connect with Francie: Website Instagram

Sep 12, 202241 min

S3 Ep 117Growing Intimacy through Body Blessing & Shame Healing

Intimacy requires vulnerability. With vulnerability, hurt and wrong thinking can bubble up, requiring attention and healing. In this episode, I share a personal journey with shame I've carried, even without realizing it, over my feminine body. You will hear the vision for body blessing and a helpful outline of simple steps for healing prayer. Your body is wonderfully made and as you agree with God, there is freedom to walk in more fruitful abundance. For a more detailed study guide on this topic, click here. Francie is partnered with MyCounselor.Online as a resource for Biblically based counseling, including sex therapy. You'll receive a 25% discount on your first session. Click here Connect with Francie: Website Instagram Grab the free guide, Five Truths about Sex

Sep 5, 202240 min

S3 Ep 116Your Wonderful Female Body - Pelvic Floor Health with Dr. Tanya Rowenhorst, Pt 2

Yes, it is possible to sneeze or cough without leaking. To exercise without a sense of urgency. And, even to be healed from uncomfortable or painful intercourse. Strengthening the pelvic floor can lead to incredible benefits, regardless of your life stage. Listen to part two of the conversation with Dr. Tanya Rowenhorst, where we unpack the health of your female body, including a more comprehensive awareness of your body so that you can be more fully connected mind, body and spirit. You'll hear a candid discussion about living more integrated, especially if you find yourself disconnected due to shame, embarrassment or iies that don't align with the Word of God. Tanya is a wife, mother of 5 and practices women's health physical therapy through innovative and approachable services at Refine Physical Therapy. About Tanya and Get Connected: God has given Tanya a passion and heart for serving and speaking truth to women. She believes that each woman has been given a good body at every stage of life, and she desires to see women embrace who they were created to be and live life to the fullest. She attended Dordt College to get a B.A. in Exercise Science and a minor in psychology, and received her doctorate degree in physical therapy from the University of Iowa. Learn more about her approachable women's health support on her website. Dr. Tanya Rowenhorst, Website and Instagram Thanks for joining Francie on this episode of Heaven in Your Home. We hope you'll be inspired by this episode, and feel led to share it with someone you know would be ministered by Francie's message. Francie is partnered with MyCounselor.Online as a resource for Biblically based counseling, including sex therapy. You'll receive a 25% discount on your first session. Click here Connect with Francie: Website Instagram Grab the free guide, Five Truths about Sex

Aug 29, 202231 min

S3 Ep 115Your Wonderful Female Body - Pelvic Floor Health with Dr. Tanya Rowenhorst, Pt 1

What is the pelvic floor? And what should you expect from a healthy, functioning pelvic floor? As your body changes with life, especially after childbirth, you may notice issues or problems like a leaky bladder, inability to jump without urgency and even uncomfortable, painful intercourse. In this episode, Dr. Tanya Rowenhorst, will help give you more insight into your wonderful female body, especially in the area of a healthy pelvic floor. Tanya is a wife, mother of 5 and practices women's health physical therapy through innovative and approachable services at Refine Physical Therapy. About Tanya and Get Connected: God has given Tanya a passion and heart for serving and speaking truth to women. She believes that each woman has been given a good body at every stage of life, and she desires to see women embrace who they were created to be and live life to the fullest. She attended Dordt College to get a B.A. in Exercise Science and a minor in psychology, and received her doctorate degree in physical therapy from the University of Iowa. Learn more about her approachable women's health support on her website. Dr. Tanya Rowenhorst, Website and Instagram Resources mentioned in this episode: Revelation Wellness Thanks for joining Francie on this episode of Heaven in Your Home. We hope you'll be inspired by this episode, and feel led to share it with someone you know would be ministered by Francie's message. Francie is partnered with MyCounselor.Online as a resource for Biblically based counseling, including sex therapy. You'll receive a 25% discount on your first session. Click here Connect with Francie: Website Instagram Grab the free guide, Five Truths about Sex

Aug 22, 202230 min

S3 Ep 114Your Wonderful Female Body - Resolution and the Ripple Effect of Sex

Your body is good and reveals the very goodness of God. Yes, that's right! God designed your body and He did so with intention and purpose. In this episode you will learn about the about the final aspect of the sexual response cycle, resolution. How can you maximize the resolution stage for increased intimacy and connection? Listen in and learn about the ways God created your body and the beautiful physical and hormonal responses that you experience in sex. Experience the powerful "exhale" together in the resolution stage of the sexual response cycle, which extends beyond the marriage bed. Related Episodes: Ep. 2 The Science of Sex Ep. 4 The Ripple Effect of Sex: And Why Sex Matters, Espicially When You Don't Feel Like It Ep. 8 The Emotional Gift of Sex Ep. 102 How a Flourishing Wife Can Call Forth Holy Masculinity Francie is partnered with MyCounselor.Online as a resource for Biblically based counseling, including sex therapy. You'll receive a 25% discount on your first session. Click here Thanks for joining Francie on this episode of Heaven in Your Home. We hope you'll be inspired by this episode, and feel led to share it with someone you know would be ministered by Francie's message. Connect with Francie: Website Instagram Grab the free guide, Five Truths about Sex

Aug 15, 202222 min