Normalizing Sexuality, Aging and Menopause
What is Your Pleasurespan?
(Season 4 | Episode 170)

[Tessa] In this episode of The Open Nesters Podcast, we dive deep into the vibrant world of open relationships with returning guests CJ, Linwood and their partner April. Our conversation explores the transformative experiences of modern relationships, particularly as they relate to the concept of “open nesting.” We are reminded that entering this new chapter of life offers not an end, but endless possibilities, exciting adventures, and rich connections.

EPISODE TIME-CODE








4:58 Building Trust in Relationships

15:10 The Concept of Pleasure Span

20:59 Prioritizing Health and Pleasure

36:40 Breaking the Cycle of Shame

47:59 Expanding Our Pleasure Span

CJ shares her journey since last appearing on the podcast, highlighting how her relationship with Linwood has evolved over time. The introduction of April as a new partner brings forth a discussion about trust, connection, and the beauty of forming bonds that go beyond traditional norms. We explore how the trio navigates their relationship dynamics, emphasizing the importance of communication and understanding among all parties involved. The conversation invites listeners to rethink their approaches to intimacy and relationships, expanding their definitions beyond societal expectations.

April provides insight into her experience as she integrates into an established partnership. She emphasizes the joy of meeting partners’ family members and the normalization of their unconventional relationship dynamic for their children. The significance of openness in their relationships also extends to how they discuss non-traditional lifestyles with their families. Through shared dinners and family gatherings, they illustrate how love can exist in myriad forms and how acceptance for these different dynamics is essential for modern families.

Our talk also reveals the deeper implications of “aging” and its intersection with sexual vitality. CJ introduces a new concept she’s passionate about—“pleasure span.” This idea intertwines health and pleasure, advocating for the prioritization of well-being and sexual satisfaction as we age. She dives into discussions around menopausal hormone therapy, emphasizing that taking charge of one’s health and pleasure during this stage of life is crucial. Through practical advice, CJ encourages listeners to advocate for themselves in medical settings, breaking the stigmas surrounding women’s health issues.

Moreover, CJ and April share their thoughts on remaining connected through intimacy—both emotional and physical. They discuss how the journey towards pleasure is not bound by age or physical capabilities, encouraging women to explore their desires without fear or shame. This episode highlights the importance of being open to new experiences, whether through relationships, kink, or simply through prioritizing one’s pleasure.

The underlying theme of agency resonates throughout the conversation. As CJ eloquently puts it, understanding one’s own desires and advocating for them can transform the aging process into a period of exciting discovery rather than decline. This proactive approach encourages listeners to embrace their identities, fostering a culture of support among women navigating similar paths.

WRAPPING UP

As the episode wraps up, we reflect on the valuable lessons shared by CJ, Linwood, and April, leaving us with thoughts on how to amplify our own pleasure spans and connections in an ever-evolving landscape of relationships. The journey in open nesting is framed not just as a phase of life, but as an ongoing adventure rich with learning, growth, and unabashed joy. This conversation offers a refreshing perspective that challenges conventional narratives about aging and relationships, affirming that love and connection can flourish in diverse and thrilling ways.

CJ/APRIL/LINDOOD ON INSTAGRAM

Your Pleasurespan






Resources for You

We want to provide you with support and many many resources for your own Open Nesting Journey. Our resource page has so much to offer as does our private discussion group on Facebook about queerness, relationship fluidity in the empty nest, and other topics of interest:

Open Nesters Resource Page

The Open Nesters Private Facebook Group

About Tessa

Tessa Krone is the engine behind and the face of The Open Nesters.

Tessa holds an MA in Consciousness Studies and is a speaker, coach, program, and journey facilitator & leader, author and, of course, Podcaster.

Her offerings are based on her mission to help people open to their most self-expressed, loving selves. Tessa’s specialties include embodiment from all the senses and elements of our inner and outer lives, ranging from mindfulness, dance, play, and sensory exploration in nature.  If she had one superpower, it would be to help people, especially as they age, to live more open-hearted lives.

Please email Tessa to make a connection. If you like, please answer the question:

What do you need to OPEN your NEST? In your LIFE. In your BODY. In your SPIRIT. Do you need MORE…

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• Adventure
  
• Freedom of Expression
  
• Exploration and Fun
  
• Body Movement
  
• New circles of friends
  
• Deep love relationships