Purity culture has left deep scars—especially for people of the global majority, women, queer folks, and those navigating the intersections of religion, culture, and colonialism. In this episode of Emboldened with Jessica, we explore the harms of purity culture, from shame and silencing of desire to the loss of body autonomy.
Jessica breaks down how purity culture isn't just a 1990s evangelical trend—it has roots in colonial control, patriarchy, and the policing of marginalized bodies. You'll hear trauma-informed insights, somatic healing practices, and compassionate tools to help you release shame, reconnect with desire, and reclaim your pleasure.
✨ If you've struggled with shame around your body, desire, or relationships, or you're supporting someone who has, this episode offers resources, reflection prompts, and hope for a more embodied, liberated life.
✨ Topics we cover:
What purity culture is and how it extends beyond white evangelicalism
How it uniquely impacts BIPOC, Asian, and Latine communities through colonialism
The hidden harms: shame, sexual disconnection, and silencing of desire
Somatic + body-based practices for healing
How caregivers can teach consent to protect kids from purity culture's harm
Steps toward reclaiming pleasure, autonomy, and embodied freedom
Jessica's Cozy Book Nook: - Bookshop
Recovering from Purity Culture: Dismantle the Myths, Reject Shame-Based Sexuality, and Move Forward in Your Faith by Camden Morgante - Bookshop
The Vagina Bible- by Jen Gunter - Bookshop
Becoming Cliterate by Laurie Mintz - Bookshop
Sex Talks: The Five Conversations that will transform your love life by Vanessa Marin - Bookshop
Come As You Are by Emily Nagoski - Bookshop
Come Together by Emily Nagoski - Bookshop
📢 Call to Action:
📲 Follow @EmboldenedWithJessica on IG, TikTok & YouTube
💗 Want to support the show? Leave a review or drop a tip here: buymeacoffee.com/emboldenedwithjessica
