Episode Overview
In this episode of 7 on Sundays, hosts Stephanie Boye and Dr. Chez Leeby welcome Thomas, who bravely shares his deeply personal experience navigating a complex and challenging relationship. His story sheds light on the growing normalization of extreme sexual behaviors, the influence of pornography, the impact of past trauma, and the struggle to communicate boundaries in intimate relationships. This conversation explores the emotional and psychological effects of these experiences, offering insight into a topic that is rarely discussed from a male perspective.
Topics Discussed
- The emotional and psychological toll of a relationship centered around extreme sexual preferences.
- How pornography influences sexual expectations and behaviors.
- The generational shift in sexual norms and the impact of peer reinforcement.
- The pressure on men to conform to dominant roles in sexual relationships.
- Thomas’s internal conflict between love and discomfort with his partner’s desires.
- The normalization of violent sexual behaviors and their emotional consequences.
- The long-term effects of unresolved trauma in relationships.
- The importance of open, honest conversations about boundaries and consent.
- How past sexual experiences and societal messaging shape current relationships.
Resources Mentioned
- The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk – Link: https://www.besselvanderkolk.com – A deep dive into how trauma is stored in the body and impacts relationships.
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call 988 for free, confidential mental health support.
- 7 on Sundays Website: https://www.7onsundays.com – Additional resources, past episodes, and community discussions.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction and Trigger Warning
00:17 Thomas's Story Begins
01:14 Introducing the Hosts and Guest
01:34 Discussion on Sexual Strangulation
02:20 Age Gap and Pornography's Impact
03:10 Thomas's Relationship Dynamics
06:26 Emotional and Sexual Discord
13:24 Thomas's Struggle with Strangulation
17:10 Impact of Pornography on Preferences
25:39 Therapy and Unresolved Issues
30:56 The Prevalence of Abuse
31:13 Normalization of Sexual Assault
31:37 Impact of Pornography on Perception
32:34 Peer Influence and Sexual Behavior
32:55 Communication and Misunderstanding in Relationships
35:11 Male Perspective on Sexual Expectations
37:48 The Trauma of Sexual Strangulation
41:32 Healing and Moving Forward
44:59 The Need for Open Discussions
56:05 Final Thoughts and Resources
Resources Mentioned
- The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk – Link: https://www.besselvanderkolk.com – A deep dive into how trauma is stored in the body and impacts relationships.
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call 988 for free, confidential mental health support.
- 7 On Sundays Website: https://www.7onsundays.com – Additional resources, past episodes, and community discussions.