In this episode, we break down the topic of masturbation, exploring its definitions, cultural and religious influences, and the many forms self-genital touch can take throughout life. We discuss why it’s important to approach the subject with nuance and self-awareness, rather than blanket judgments. Listeners will gain insights and practical strategies for clarifying their own beliefs and communicating about this sensitive topic with their families.

This podcast episode features a conversation with Meredith Ashton, a menstrual educator and women’s hormone health specialist, about how parents can effectively teach their children about menstruation and puberty. The discussion emphasizes the importance of starting with small, ongoing conversations before puberty, using age-appropriate and relatable analogies—such as comparing the menstrual cycle to the four seasons. The guests discuss the ideal timing for a formal conversation (ages 10–12), the biological and emotional changes that occur during puberty, and the value of tracking both physical and emotional symptoms.

Practical advice is given on preparing daughters for their first period, including providing a “first period kit” and celebrating menarche with supportive gestures, such as a letter from the father. The role of both parents is highlighted, with suggestions for how fathers can be involved in a supportive and respectful way. The conversation also covers the importance of educating boys about menstruation to foster respect and understanding, and how to counter cultural stereotypes around PMS.

Meredith shares details about her cycle awareness classes for parents, teens, and even boys, which cover the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of the menstrual cycle. The episode concludes with encouragement for parents to become their children’s primary sexual health educators and to create a supportive, open environment for these important conversations.

This episode focuses on helping parents process and discuss sexual messages and content with their children by identifying and verbalizing moments of sexual messaging in everyday life. The key strategy is to enable children's understanding and processing of sexual content through open, casual conversations that help them feel safe and empowered to think critically about sexuality.

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