Pleasure, Connection, and Longevity: My Conversation on the Health, Wellth & Wisdom Podcast
I recently had the pleasure of joining Nicole Hagen on her wonderful podcast, Health, Wellth & Wisdom, for a candid and empowering conversation about one of my favorite topics: the connection between orgasmic intimacy, health, and longevity.
As someone who has spent decades helping people cultivate passionate relationships and expand their capacity for pleasure, I loved the opportunity to discuss how intimacy isn’t just about romance—it’s an important pillar of overall well-being.
Meet My Host: Nicole Hagen
Nicole Hagen’s work is deeply rooted in her own personal transformation. After struggling with weight loss through unhealthy methods, navigating a complicated relationship with food, and recovering from a years-long eating disorder, Nicole discovered a healthier path and made it her life’s work to help other women do the same.
Today, more than a decade later, Nicole holds a Master’s degree in Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Public Health, along with an undergraduate degree in Health Psychology. Through her successful coaching business, podcast, and media appearances, she has helped hundreds of women break free from the cycle of repeat dieting and create sustainable habits that support their healthiest and happiest lives.
Her thoughtful approach to wellness makes her the perfect person to host conversations that explore the often-overlooked connections between physical health, emotional well-being, and intimate relationships.
What We Discussed
In this episode of Health, Wellth & Wisdom, Nicole and I dive into a powerful and unapologetic conversation about pleasure, connection, and the vital role orgasmic intimacy can play in health and longevity.
Together, we explore:
- The fascinating connection between orgasms and longevity
- How orgasm impacts both physical and mental health
- Whether the benefits of orgasm are limited to partnered intimacy or extend to solo pleasure as well
- Practical ways to reconnect with your body and increase desire
- Strategies for navigating intimacy despite body image challenges
- How to approach pleasure and connection in a way that feels enjoyable rather than pressured
One of the themes I was particularly excited to discuss is that pleasure is not a luxury—it’s an important aspect of human health. Many women have been taught to prioritize everyone else’s needs while disconnecting from their own bodies and desires. Reclaiming pleasure can be a powerful act of self-care.
The Science and the Real-Life Challenges
We also explored the science behind orgasm and its potential impact on longevity, while acknowledging the very real barriers many women face.
Stress, exhaustion, body image struggles, hormonal changes, relationship dynamics, and the demands of everyday life can all make intimacy feel difficult or even inaccessible. That’s why I believe it’s so important to approach sexuality with curiosity, compassion, and a willingness to learn rather than judgment or pressure.
Creating a fulfilling relationship with your body and your sexuality isn’t about perfection. It’s about developing awareness, building connection, and giving yourself permission to experience pleasure in ways that feel authentic and nourishing.
Why This Conversation Matters
At its heart, this episode is about helping women understand that intimacy and pleasure are integral parts of wellness.
Just as we care for our nutrition, movement, sleep, and emotional health, we can also cultivate our erotic well-being. When we do, we often discover greater vitality, deeper connection, improved resilience, and a richer experience of life itself.
I’m grateful to Nicole for creating a space where these important conversations can happen openly and without shame.
Listen to the Episode
If you’ve ever wondered about the relationship between pleasure, intimacy, and long-term health—or if you’ve struggled with desire, body image, or finding your way back to connection—I think you’ll find this conversation both enlightening and encouraging.
I hope you’ll give it a listen and let me know what resonates most with you.
Here’s to your pleasure, vitality, and lifelong intimacy.
With love,
Susan Bratton